RTHK: Survivors describe horror of mosque attacks Survivors of the Christchurch mosque shootings have recalled how elderly worshippers and children were gunned down as the heavily armed attacker targeted Muslims in New Zealand's worst massacre. At least 49 people died and another 48 were injured in the assault on two mosques in the South Island city. Anwar Alsaleh was preparing for Friday prayers at the Al Noor mosque in central Christchurch - where 41 victims were killed - when the gunman walked in. Anwar hid in a bathroom and tried to call emergency services as shots rang out, saying he heard the gunman say an expletive about Muslims and "We're going to kill you today." At least another seven people died at the Linwood Avenue mosque, about five kilometres away, where Syed Mazharuddin said a man wearing body armour and a helmet opened fire. "Just around the entrance door there were elderly people sitting there praying and he just started shooting at them," he told the New Zealand Herald. "There was a lady screaming and he shot her point blank in the face." The attacker live-streamed the attack, with footage showing him firing repeatedly at worshippers as he moved from room to room. Witnesses at the Al Noor mosque said the shooter was a white male with magazines of ammunition strapped to his legs. One told Radio New Zealand the gunman was very calm during the rampage. Mirwaiz, an Afghan refugee who did not want to provide his surname, said he came close to death when a bullet grazed his head. "He started shooting at our side of the room and I lay down on the floor as a bullet grazed my head. A couple of centimetres lower and I would be dead," he told stuff.co.nz, saying he fled from the mosque while the gunman's attention was elsewhere. Others told of scrambling through broken windows and playing dead among the carnage in a bid to survive. (AFP) This story has been published on: 2019-03-16. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. In addition to the fact that limousine travel is very glamorous, it is also the most comfortable trip you can... Hundreds of thousands join world youth climate demo Montreal, March 16 (AFP) Mar 16, 2019 Hundreds of thousands of young people skipped school across the globe on Friday to march through the streets for an international day of student protests aimed at pushing world leaders into action on climate change. Classrooms in capitals from Bangkok to Berlin and Lagos to London emptied as organizers of the student strike called demonstrations in more than 100 countries. Students flooded into the streets across Europe, North and South America, and Asia carrying placards reading: "There is no planet B", "You're destroying our future" and "If you don't act like adults, we will." Despite three decades of warnings, carbon dioxide emissions hit record levels in 2017 and again last year. Loading the atmosphere with greenhouse gases at current rates will eventually lead to an uninhabitable planet, scientists say. In Stockholm, Swedish teen activist Greta Thunberg -- who inspired the protests -- warned that time was running out. "We are living through an existential crisis that has been ignored for decades and if we do not act now it may be too late," the 16-year-old, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, told Swedish public television station SVT. Across the world, their placards formed a mosaic: "Like the ocean, we will rise" (Sydney) "Our future in your hands" (Berlin) "System Change not Climate Change" (Vienna) "Don't be a Trump" (Hong Kong) "The Titanic would have NO problem in 2019" (Elmshorn, Germany) And everywhere, "There is no planet B." Montreal drew among the largest crowds, estimated by organizers at nearly 150,000. In the United States, protests were more low-key, with events held in New York, Washington, Chicago, Portland, Oregon, and St. Paul, Minnesota, where one sign read: "So bad even introverts are here!" Further south in Latin America, placards with messages such as "climate change is not 'fake news'" were seen in Buenos Aires, Argentina -- while young people also took to the streets in the Chilean capital Santiago and Colombia's Medellin. In Delhi, one of the world's most polluted cities, 200 students took part in a colorful protest, waving ribbons, juggling and performing stunts with hoops. "We have to make a choice whether we want to sit and be indifferent or do something for our planet," said 16-year-old student Srijani Datta. In Sydney, 18-year-old Charles Rickwood warned that Australia's Great Barrier Reef could be destroyed. "If current trends in the environment continue, we'll see the one, two degrees increase in our ocean then it will simply become unsustainable and we could lose the entire Great Barrier Reef," he told AFP. - Skipping exams - European students were also out en masse. Several thousand youngsters thronged the streets of central London in a raucous demonstration with banners and placards. Packing into Parliament Square, they cheered and chanted "Change... now!" before marching past Downing Street and massing outside Buckingham Palace. "They're not going to stop me trying to save the planet," said 15-year-old Joe Crabtree from southwest London, who had missed two exams to join the rally. More than one million marched overall, according to estimates by organizing groups such as the Youth For Climate movement and AFP reporters. The Friday for Future movement said more than 300,000 young people demonstrated in Germany alone. As youngsters hit the streets, nations meeting at the UN environment assembly in Kenya announced they had agreed to "significantly reduce" single-use plastics over the next decade. But experts said the pledge -- which only referred to man-made global warming and made no mention of the fossil fuels driving it -- fell far short of the steps needed to tackle Earth's burgeoning pollution crisis. - 'Adults should learn a lesson' - The global action drew a mixed reaction from politicians. Germany's Economy Minister Peter Altmaier said the demonstrators should be in class while Australia's Education Minister Dan Tehan said striking was "not something that we should encourage." But New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern hailed the action, saying: "We hear you and we're getting on with setting a path for carbon neutrality." UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres offered his strongest support yet for the strikes, writing in The Guardian newspaper: "Without ambitious action, the Paris agreement is meaningless." Guterres also called for world leaders to come to the Climate Action Summit in New York in September "with concrete, realistic plans" to further reduce their emissions by 2020, in order to reach a target of 45 percent lower emissions over the next decade, and to net zero by 2050. In the Indian Ocean island nation of Mauritius, students circulated a petition to be submitted to the government demanding concrete measures. - 'My eyes hurt from pollution' - The Paris treaty calls for capping global warming at "well below" two degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) but the planet is currently on track to heat up by double that figure. The UN's climate science panel warned in October that only a wholesale transformation of the global economy and consumer habits could forestall a catastrophe. "My eyes hurt from pollution. My shirt gets dirty from dust," 13-year-old protester Shagun Kumari told AFP in Delhi. "I want fresh air that won't harm my lungs and clean water to drink so that I don't keep falling sick." burs-amc/ska/it Aerospace Turbulence Boeing's Unsuccessful Attempt to Avert a Crisis Boeing has been the undisputed leader in the aviation market in recent years, with Airbus struggling to keep up. But the crashes of two Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft could invert the industry's pecking order. Geneva, March 16, 2018 (SPS) - Hundreds of Saharawi community in Europe on Friday held demonstration in Swiss capital Geneva, denouncing the Moroccan occupation of Western Sahara and the lack of progress in the UN-sponsored settlement process. The demonstration was called for by Sahrawi civil society groups and attended by political, human rights and solidarity figures from several countries, who expressed their condemnation of the recent renewal of the fishing agreement between Morocco and EU, which includes Western Sahara, in flagrant violation of the ruling of the European Court of Justice. The demonstrators raised pictures of Sahrawi political prisoners in Moroccan prisons, demanding their release after the deterioration of the health condition as a result of torture and medical negligence. The Geneva demonstration comes as part of the awareness campaigns in major European cities, so that a solution could be found to enable the Sahrawi people to exercise their right to self-determination. (SPS) 062/SPS/TRA English15/03/2019 SRNA News Roundup /I/ - March 15, 2019 REPUBLIKA SRPSKA BUCHAREST - Republika Srpska President Zeljka Cvijanovic will today also take part in the 8th European Summit of Regions and Cities in Bucharest and will meet with representatives of regions of some EU member states on the sidelines of the summit. BANJALUKA - The deputy president of the Peoples Democratic Movement /NDP/, Zdravko Krsmanovic, died at the age of 62 after a short illness. BANJALUKA - The Speaker of the Republika Srpska Parliament, Nedeljko Cubrilovic, sent a message of condolence on his personal behalf and on behalf of the Republika Srpska National Assembly to the family of MP Zdravko Krsmanovic who died after a short illness. BANJALUKA - A glaucoma screening, in which 312 people were examined, discovered increased eye pressure in 21 people and eye nerve changes in 18 people, announced the Republika Srpska University Clinical Center. BIJELJINA - Forty-four Roma families applied for apartments under the project for Roma housing in Bijeljina, says a press release from the City Administration. SREBRENICA - A book titled The Battle for Srebrenica War for Civilization by Dusan Pavlovic will be presented on Friday evening in the Srebrenica National Library. BIJELJINA - On the International River Action Day, the Association of Citizens Kayak, Canoe, Rafting Semberija in Bijeljina organized the cleaning of a portion of banks of the Sava River in the village of Brodac, near the kayak center, where more than 30 bags of garbage, mostly plastic bottles and other plastic items, were collected. ZVORNIK - Around KM 900 was raised at last nights humanitarian concert performed by students of the Petar Kocic Secondary School Center of Zvornik which will be donated to the center for support to children with developmental disabilities and their parents. BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA ISTOCNO SARAJEVO - The Chairman of the BiH Presidency, Milorad Dodik, will receive a visit from the Head of the EU Delegation to BiH, Lars-Gunnar Wigemark, on Friday in Istocno Sarajevo. ISTOCNO SARAJEVO - The Chairman of the BiH Presidency, Milorad Dodik, spoke on Friday with Istocno Sarajevo Mayor Nenad Vukovic about the marking of the 23rd anniversary of the exodus of Serbs from Sarajevo. ISTOCNO SARAJEVO - The Chairman of the BiH Presidency, Milorad Dodik, spoke on Friday in Istocno Sarajevo with Sokolac Mayor Milovan Bjelica about the current issues, with the focus on investments. SARAJEVO - The caretaker BiH Minister of Foreign Affairs, Igor Crnadak, and the French Ambassador to BiH, Guillaume Rousson, agreed that stable and efficient authorities should be established at all levels in BiH in order to resume the implementation of reforms and meeting conditions for membership in European integrations as soon as possible. SERBIA BELGRADE - Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic sent a telegram of condolence to the Governor-General of New Zealand, Patsy Reddy, on the occasion of the mosque shootings in Christchurch, where 40 people were killed in a terror attack. BELGRADE - The opening of archives of Pope Pius XII which pertain to the period of WWII could resolve the dilemma of the Jewish community as to what the Vatican knew about the persecution of Jews but also discover how much the Vatican knew about crimes against Serbs, the position of the Pope on the Independent State of Croatia /NDH/ and Alojzije Stepinac, reports Radio-TV Serbia. REGION LJUBLJANA - The Slovenian Ministry of Internal Affairs announced that Slovenia would expel three BiH citizens who are considered a security threat because of their ties with Islamic circles. WORLD WELLINGTON /SRNA-Reuters/ - The number of victims of the mosque shootings in the city of Christchurch in New Zealand raised to 49, said police chief Michael Bush, adding that one man is suspected of murders. /end/sg English15/03/2019 DODIK CONDEMNS TERRIFYING TERRORIST ATTACK IN NEW ZEALAND ISTOCNO SARAJEVO, March 15 /SRNA/ - BiH Presidency Chairman Milorad Dodik strongly condemns terrifying terrorist attack in New Zealand that killed civilians during the prayer, which makes this crime even more horrifying. Dodik voiced expectation that all those responsible for this attack will be adequately punished, and the families of victims will receive the attention of the community in which they live. "I cannot help but notice that a campaign against the Serbs has begun in the media and part of the political world, as a terrorist was allegedly inspired, as suggested, by characters from Serbian history," Dodik told SRNA. He emphasized that it is clear that the attacker is an Australian citizen and has nothing to do with the Serbs and this region. "The media headlines and political qualifications that do not bring crime to the fore, but the alleged motives and tendencies of the attackers, are humiliating the huge loss that the Muslim community in New Zealand suffered this morning. The crime committed in New Zealand is scary enough for anyone to gain dirty political points in such way," said BiH Presidency Chairman Milorad Dodik. The attacks in mosques Al Noor and Linwood in Christchurch killed 49 people. The police detained four people, including a twenty-year-old Brenton Tarrant who took responsibility for the attacks. /end/vos 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. Exporting hair! View(s): My curiosity was aroused when I came to know that human hair has been among Sri Lankas export commodity mix. I called one of my friends Sanjeewa Rathnasekera at the Export Development Board (EDB) and, asked him to confirm if there have been records of exporting human hair. He took a little while and called me back, saying: Its true, there have been such exports! I said, Its wonderful. Its 100 per cent local value addition; every dollar we earn is purely net foreign exchange! Sanjeewa started laughing! Ignoring his laugh, I asked him again: Whats the export share? How many millions have we earned from this last year? He replied: We have earned 10 dollars in 2018. I realised, why he was laughing, but asked him again: Any records in the previous years? He said: Not regularly, but in some years, such as 2010 and 2011 around 1,000 dollars a year. European tomato and American water After reading about European tomato and American water in my Down-to-Earth Economics column on March 3, some had expressed their concern over the imported-input content in our exports. The concern is that if the country is spending foreign exchange to import inputs into exports, then the net value of foreign exchange earnings is low. This concern equally applies to the tourism industry as well. Tourism is an exportable commodity so that the foreign exchange that a country earns by selling a tourist package can be counted as export income. If star-grade hotels in Colombo spend foreign exchange for importing food and drinks to serve tourists, then the net value of our tourist earnings is low. The principle applies to any good or service sold to earn foreign currency: Any good (such as apparel or rubber products) or any service (such as tourism or health) makes use of imported inputs. While we earn foreign exchange by selling these goods and services to foreigners, we have to pay for the imported inputs that are used in producing them. As a result the net value of foreign exchange earnings is less than the gross value. The good old-days The flip side of the point is that the imported input content reduces the local input content: The higher the imported input content, the lower the local input content and, vice versa. If the local input content is lower, it means that such products do not have strong backward links to the domestic economy. Now we have a sentimental policy issue, which has been dominant in olden-day policy-making and which is still haunting the hearts and minds of our times: We must produce and export value added products which would maximise our national gain. The dominant policy-making based on value added products encouraged our traditional exports tea, rubber and, coconut as well as non-traditional minor export crops, handicrafts and, jewellery. With all efforts, Sri Lanka could export only a little, but most of them were value added products. Foot-loose industries From the old value added notion, most of the new export industries such as apparel, leather products, sport goods, electronic goods and, machinery are all highly import-based; the imported raw materials, parts, and components account for large portion of the value of these products. For instance, consider a garment item such as a shirt which require textile material, collars, buttons, hooks, plastic pieces, and packing materials, in which most of these parts are imported. Similarly, consider a pair of shoes produced in Sri Lanka: Outer-sole, inner-sole, upper-cap, strips, buckles and other parts and components in which some of these are imported. Depending on the size of the imported input content, the domestic content becomes smaller. In fact, at the beginning these industries which came under much criticism due to their high imported input content were called foot-loose industries; they didnt have strong backward linkages to the domestic economy. However, new export industries were important not for the unit value of the domestic content, but for the volume growth. During the period of 25 years from 1950 1975, value added exports grew from US$300 to $500 million; within the next 25 years from 1975 2000, total exports dominated by foot-loose industries grew from $500 million to over $5,000 million. Global value chains A big step forward in changing export patterns in the world has been the emergence of global value chains the production of parts and components of a commodity by many different countries and, then assembling it in another country. Therefore, countries which have established connections to global value chains engage in network trade in terms of (a) producing and exporting parts and components of the commodities assembled elsewhere and, (b) assembling and exporting final products by importing parts and components from elsewhere. When we add the export values of both types, it is known as network trade. By implication of network trade, the unit value of a commodity shared by an individual country is a tiny part of the total value of the product. However, the national benefit of participating in such production activities doesnt depend on the unit value of the domestic input content, but the volume growth of the product and its exports. Today we are not looking for products made in a single country; even if we find it, it is actually produced everywhere and, only assembled in the exporting country. East Asia and South Asia The economic progress of East Asian countries owes much to their integration into global value chains. China is known to be an assembly centre in East Asia, because most of the manufacturing activities in China are dominated by assembling parts and components produced by other countries to finish a final product and export it. For instance, Apple products of iPad or iPhone that are assembled in China are actually designed and developed in the US and, produced in parts and components by many countries such as Japan, Taiwan, South Korea and European Union and exported to China for final assembly. Chinese value addition to Apple products is said to be about 2 per cent only. South Asia is, however, not a region that has developed its links to global value chains, compared to East Asia. Even in Sri Lanka, the connections to global value chains remain weak. Myth of domestic value The age of global value chains have challenged the older notion of promoting value added exports. If it is value added products that we are looking for, then human hair is 100 per cent domestic value added because there is no import content in it. But the main issue is not the unit value addition, but the volume growth. Even if there is imported input content, rapid export growth in terms of US$ millions and billions would bring about massive contributions to economic progress as it happened in East Asian countries. Tourism The tourism industry also depends on imported inputs, while the article on European tomato and American water refers to a case as such where there is imported food and drinks in the tourist hotel menu in Colombo. By the way, it should be noted that Colombo hotels accommodate mostly the business travellers rather than those who arrive purely on tourist purpose. Therefore, hotels in Colombo cater to a different clientele. Tourist hotels outside Colombo attempt to add more local food and drinks varieties to their menu, while the tourists also consider experiencing local delicacies as an essential part of their travel experience. Having imported inputs in exports is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, not having imported inputs in exports is also not necessarily a good thing. Perhaps, it shows the constraints imposed by trade restrictions which can limit export growth by excessive import controls. Particularly, the successful integration into global value chains require a fairly open import trade; even tiny changes in import taxes can wipe out the entire range of possibilities of the country to integrate into global value chains. This is because each country is contributing a small part of a whole product but in millions and billions of units, so that a minor import tax can eliminate the entire profit margin. (The writer is a Professor of Economics at the University of Colombo and can be reached at sirimal@econ.cmb.ac.lk) Healthiest Workplace Summit, for the first time in Sri Lanka View(s): The Healthiest Workplace Summit organised by AIA Insurance, was held for the first time in Sri Lanka with the participation of HR professionals from leading corporates in the country recently. The summit revealed the key findings of the Healthiest Workplace Survey and also saw sharing of best practices, techniques and insightful sessions by international and local experts on key workplace health concerns. The Summit also awarded the winners of the Healthiest Workplace, Healthiest Employer and Healthiest Employee in large, medium and small categories respectively. Inconsistent policies impede investor confidence in Lankan property market By Raj Moorthy View(s): View(s): While investments play an integral part in boosting the property sector in Sri Lanka, the governments inconsistent policies are impeding investor confidence, says Eraj Rajapakse, Senior Manager for Projects, Asia Capital PLC. He was speaking to the Business Times on the sideline of a media briefing organised by Belluna Lanka at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel in Colombo on Wednesday. The government needs to implement consistent policies for investors (both local and foreign) to build confidence in Sri Lanka. At Belluna most of the investors are locals, he said. While Belluna Co Japan has invested US$450 million in all projects in Sri Lanka, its first luxury apartment property Belluna 447 Luna Tower located in Union Place is scheduled for completion in 2020. The 45-storied project consists of 190 luxurious apartments ranging from 842 sq ft two-bedrooms to 2283 sq ft four-bedrooms. Prices range from Rs. 50 million to Rs. 150 million. Belluna Lanka (Pvt) Ltd Managing Director, Hiroshi Yasuno at the event stated that Sri Lanka has made rapid growth and opened up for investors creating a friendly environment. As investors we see potential for developing luxury apartments in Colombo compared to other regional capitals as migration and arrival of expatriates to live and work in the city are happening. The demand for high quality and luxury apartments is expected to grow, noted Mr. Yasuno. During the question and answer session it was mentioned that in Sri Lanka there are no skilled labourers who are committed to deliver the product on time. In that case foreign skilled labourers are imported to complete the project and get the job done. According to a media release issued at the briefing, Colombo is undergoing a transformation in infrastructure and with the ongoing construction of the Colombo International Financial City, the demand for luxury apartments is expected to rise, as more professionals move to the city from surrounding areas and even from overseas to work and live in the vicinity. The 447 Luna Tower reflects a prudent investment choice for prospective buyers seeking to invest in a lucrative project that will generate high return on investment while offering a veritable urban oasis. Services sector to transform the Sri Lankan job space By Sunimalee Dias View(s): View(s): Sri Lanka will make a leap frog into the services sector in the future of the world of work in the wake of the changes in the fourth industrial revolution that would involve the digital space and a shift out of its more favoured agriculture and plantations sectors. The country has seen a sharp reduction in the number of workers on the plantations and this number is also dwindling within the agriculture sector as well and without shifting into the manufacturing sector that is the common area of movement according to classical theorists on the jobs sector, there would be a shift towards the services sector, ILO Country Director Simrin Singh told the Business Times in an interview on Tuesday at the ILO office in Colombo. The future of work is a conversation that has started around the world and the disruption created around it as a result of the emerging technologies and in this context Sri Lanka is considered unique by one of the experts of the report on Future of Work Director Dr. Vikrom Mathur said. He noted that Sri Lankas agricultural and plantation sectors were not deeply impacted by technology due to the fact that the future of jobs in these two sectors were redundant and that contributes only about 7 per cent to the GDP of the economy and generates about 25 per cent of employment. With a low use of technology on the plantations and people already leaving this sector it is unlikely to be impacted by the fourth industrial revolution of technological transition. On the contrary the future of work in Sri Lanka is mostly found in the services sector like in the care sector that would increase the number of jobs for taking care of the growing elderly population and the child care market. In addition, the decentralised tourism is said to have a high potential in future and moreover, Sri Lanka has been identified to having a unique position in the green economy, Dr. Mathur noted. There would be increased opportunities for self-employment allowing for those unable to enter the job market, it was noted. In the services sector, the country needs to identify with the IT services sector in particular in the areas of Artificial Intelligence, data analytics among others. Sri Lankas scenario is what is in an emerged country with low female participation in the workforce; similar to developed and also South Asian countries. In terms of the demographics the country is also like Japan with an ageing population and 60 per cent of those in employment found in the informal sector. In view of the higher standard of education available for free and improved health care services, there is difficulty in finding youth for the low end manual jobs on the other hand most would prefer routine jobs that are likely to get automated going forward. A heavy investment in ensuring that people are provided skills training is something that the government needs to engage in. The good jobs which are those that provide a security for the future of employees will be lost and a lot of transformation will happen in the services sector. Commenting on the low female participation in the workforce, Ms. Singh explained that culture played a key role in ensuring that few females took up jobs especially after they get married and have children. In this respect, the government needs to bring about the necessary labour laws in place, to remove discrimination at the workplace, increase security of women workers travelling to work and even while there. Moreover, working from home is considered to be an issue as this would mean adding to the already existing household and child care work that women as mothers and housewives are engaged in, it was noted. But even then the opportunities to work from home should be encouraged and even getting them back to work through self-employment projects becoming part of the workforce and simultaneously work on the labour laws as well. The report launched by the ILO takes a careful study into the aspects of digital space taking over the different sectors of employment and the scenario in terms of Sri Lankas current situation. In this context it was found that Sri Lanka continues to enjoy a higher level of education and healthcare but continued to be more expensive in terms of jobs and lacked the ability to compete with neighbouring states like India and Bangladesh and that some of its key sectors like agriculture and plantations would become a thing of the past while other sectors like services there could be a radical transformation although robotics is hard to replace the human touch yet in the country. Understanding RDAs development strategies and progress View(s): The Shippers Academy Colombo has organised a forum to understand the Road Development Authority (RDA)s development plans, timelines, etc to educate the local and the international investors who are gearing themselves for vibrant opportunities beyond 2020 as the country prepares to become a major logistics and a manufacturing hub in the Indian Ocean. The forum will be held on March 21 at the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce auditorium in Colombo in the presence of the RDA chairman and his staff. The academy said that Sri Lankas geographical position with three major ports along the east west shipping corridor is making it a more viable and a cost-effective logistics hub in the Indian ocean. Being a small island, having international ports in the east, south and the west, the country can be a great facilitator for international clients to set up distribution centres to connect many continents by sea and air for large volumes of small consignments. Currently this business is thriving in Singapore and Dubai. However, Sri Lanka has a unique advantage being in between these two hubs. Not only is Sri Lanka cost effective, but it connects east-west with a speed that other hubs cannot match. The location also gives the positioning advantage for manufacturing as well, as raw materials and finished goods can be connected to the east-west shipping and aviation routes to service international retail markets. To achieve this hub status, certain infrastructure is needed to facilitate manufacturing, warehousing and distribution. A strong road network is among that priority list. In the long run they need to connect the major ports and airports and in the medium term, increase domestic transfer speed between production, warehousing and ports. The RDA in the last decade has taken many initiatives, where some projects have been completed, other being completed and future networks are being planned, the academy said in a media release. A debate that left JO members and UNP backbenchers red-faced By Sandun Jayawardana View(s): View(s): The actions of President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe left sections of their own Parliamentary Groups humiliated during this weeks Budget debate. On Tuesday (12), Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa and other leaders of the Joint Opposition in the United Peoples Freedom Alliance (UPFA) were left red-faced after a group of Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) MPs failed to show up during the vote on the Budgets second reading. The decision by the SLFP to abstain came during a Parliamentary Group meeting held with President Sirisena earlier in the day. However, four SLFP MPs allied to President Sirisena defied this decision, joining their UPFA colleagues to vote against the Budget. Those absent when the vote was taken included party heavyweights Chief Opposition Whip Mahinda Amaraweera, SLFP General Secretary Dayasiri Jayasekara, Nimal Siripala De Silva, Duminda Dissanayake, S.B. Dissanayake and Thilanga Sumathipala. Also absent was Eelam Peoples Democratic Party (EPDP) Leader Douglas Devananda. In their absence, the UPFA could only muster 70 of the 76 votes that were cast against the Second Reading. A group of Tamil National Alliance (TNA) MPs including its leader R. Sampanthan, joined the Government in voting for the motion. They were joined by the two MPs from the Ceylon Workers Congress (CWC) including party leader Arumugam Thondaman. The absence of the SLFP came against the backdrop of a sustained push by a group of United National Party (UNP) backbenchers to defeat the Expenditure Head of the President. Speaking to journalists after Tuesdays vote, Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa said that he believed the SLFP had abstained because of the threat by the UNP backbenchers. Perhaps they believed that the situation would be avoided by them not turning up today, he said. Unsurprisingly, Government MPs couldnt contain their glee. Participating in the first day of the Committee Stage Debate on Wednesday (13), Prime Minister Wickremesinghe quipped that a group that could not even muster 1/3 of the numbers required to form a Government were trying to seize power. Despite his jovial mood in the morning, when evening came, Mr Wickremesinghe moved swiftly and sternly to thwart attempts by backbenchers from his own party to force a vote on the Presidents Expenditure Head. Speaking during the debate earlier in the day, UNP MPs including Chaminda Wijesiri, Hesha Withanage and Hirunika Premachandra severely criticized the President, urging the party leadership to allow a vote on his Expenditure Head. PM Wickremesinghe and Leader of the House Lakshman Kiriella though, ensured that this would not happen when they moved quickly to block a request by MP Wijesiri to Speaker Karu Jayasuriya asking for a vote. With both the Premier and the Leader of the House insisting that a vote was not required, the Presidents Expenditure Head was passed unanimously, though the House recorded MP Wijesiris protest. Some of the strongest criticism directed at the President however, came from JVP Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The MP used his speech to launch a withering attack on the Executive, alleging that the President had repeatedly violated the Constitution in recent times. The Constitution is the fundamental legal document that signifies the bond between the President and the people. If a President continues to violate that fundamental document, we have no right to ask any citizen of this country to act according to the Constitution or even common law, he observed, adding that they could not justify allocating so much of public funds for the President in light of this. During the Committee Stage Debate on the Ministry of Education on Friday (15), JVP MP Bimal Rathnayake stressed that though the Government came to power promising to allocate 6% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for state education, its record of cutting down allocations for education is even worse than that of the Rajapaksa Government. This has been revealed by the report prepared by Parliaments own Committee on Public Finance, he observed. During the Rajapaksa Government, allocations for state education had been reduced steadily to about 1.7% of GDP. However, under the new Government, allocations for state education were just 1.04% of GDP in 2016, 1.34% in 2017 and 1.27% in 2018. He further noted that according to the committees report, the Government was actually spending far less on education than even from the amounts that had been allocated. A total of 22 Heads of Expenditure were passed unanimously on Wednesday. They included those of the President, Office of the Prime Minister, Judges of the Superior Courts, Office of the Cabinet of Ministers and independent commissions such as the Public Service Commission, National Police Commission, Elections Commission and the Human Rights Commission. The Expenditure Heads of the Ministries of National Policies, Economic Affairs, Resettlement and Rehabilitation, Northern Province Development, Vocational Training and Skills Development and Youth Affairs were passed without a vote on Thursday. The subjects all come under the purview of the PM. The Expenditure Heads of the Ministries of Education, City Planning, Water Supply and Higher Education, along with the Ministry of Buddhasasana & Wayamba Development and the Ministry of Housing, Construction and Cultural Affairs were also passed this week. The Committee Stage Debate of the Budget will continue till April 5. A final vote on the Third Reading will be held on the same day. Dont open an old sore: Lets just forget the whole war crime probe View(s): WHAT PRESIDENT SIRISENA PLANS TO TELL THE UNCHR THIS COMING WEEK: Foreign Ministry strikes back and assures the United Nations body the Govt.s determination to continue with the reconciliation process This coming week, Lanka will make her biannual trek up the Calvary to the Swiss mountains carrying the cross on her back with a litany of war crimes, allegedly committed by her forces during the last years of the 30-year Eelam War, firmly nailed to it. When she finally reaches the Swiss slopes, she will face crucifixion by the western powers unless she can show she has atoned and paid the necessary penance. If she has fallen short in wearing the coarse cloth of the penitent but can show to the satisfaction of these Pontius Pilates that she has at least attempted to atone her sins in some measure, she will be granted a stay of execution; and these Christian nations, showing Christian mercy, will grant her a further time period to confess her transgressions and cleanse her sins she is supposed to have committed. At the March 2015, Calvary climb, Lanka would certainly have been crucified, had there not been a change of regime that January. And the nation would have faced a fate far worse than Iran, with all her oil riches, faced during the embargoes placed upon her. Since these alleged crimes had taken place under the previous regime, the advent of a new more seemingly enlightened Government committed to the tenets of democracy was welcome in Geneva at 30/1 session of the United Nation Human Rights Council and, though the principle held that the sins of a previous government visits the succeeding one, the new outfit was treated with leniency and granted time to set right the UN call for justice to the victims. The 2015 resolution called, among other matters, for a credible investigation into alleged war crimes. The Sri Lankan government promised to do so; and, on the basis of that undertaking made to the United Nations HRC, Lanka was granted a temporary reprieve of crucifixion. Come 2017, the Sirisena headed government, had failed to keep most of the promises it had made to the UN body, but, with powerful America acting as a co-sponsor, again with Lanka, succeeded preventing the nail being driven into Lankas coffin. Lanka was granted a further extension of two years to perform. The international demand was to have a credible investigation to probe the alleged war crimes, set up hybrid courts with local and foreign judges to adjudicate and also to set up an office to inquire into missing persons. That two-year period of grace runs out this March 21, when Lanka will be called upon to face the music, unless she has a face-saving excuse to persuade why the crucifixion should not be carried out. With the US pulling out of the United Nations Human Rights Council in June last year, calling it a cesspool of political bias with the US envoy to the UN Nikki Haley saying it was a hypocritical body that makes a mockery of human rights, the Lankan lass was left in the lurch, abandoned on the street without a powerful sugar daddy with muscle to champion her innocence though it did come with a price. She didnt have to wait long to find another. Along came Britain the nations old colonial masters who, more than anyone else, following as they did their tried and tested policy of divide and rule which they practised in every country they set their imperial foot upon, first threw the seeds of division between the Sinhalese and the Tamils and left behind upon their exist from the land, the embers of hate simmering, which in 1983 erupted in flames this time not alone, as she did in 1802 when she colonised the low land, but with a western werewolf pack to pick up the baton the Americans had dumped in the gutter, to continue the crusade. And what does the co-sponsored resolution to be presented at this weeks Geneva 40/1 session say: A resolution titled Promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka was submitted to the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on Monday by Canada, Germany, Montenegro, North Macedonia, the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, n IT HAILS Lanka for the strong role played by Sri Lankas democratic institutions in the peaceful resolution of the political situation that arose in Sri Lanka from October to December 2018, n IT WELCOMES the establishment of the Office on Missing Persons in September 2017 and the appointment of its Commissioners in February 2018 and the assumption of its work to fully implement its mandate, n IT NOTES with appreciation the return of some private land previously occupied by the military to civilian ownership while recalling repeated public commitments by the Government of Sri Lanka to release all private land occupied by the military, to enable local populations to resume livelihoods, n AND ALSO NOTES, other steps taken by the Government of Sri Lanka to implement Human Rights Council resolution 30/1, including progress towards establishing an Office on Reparations and the submission to cabinet of a concept paper on a Bill to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the proposed repeal of the Prevention of Terrorism Act 1978 and the preparation of a draft Counter Terrorism Act, while reiterating in this context the need for further significant progress and encouraging in this regard the adoption of a time-bound implementation strategy. And, after this shower of flowery praise, comes the stab. The resolution proceeds thereon to remove its glove and reveal the steel fist. It states: n It takes note of the report presented by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to the Human Rights Council at its fortieth session, as requested by the Council in its resolution 34/1, and requests the Government of Sri Lanka to implement fully the measures identified by the Council in its resolution 30/1 that are outstanding; and in clause 4 nRequests the Office of the High Commissioner to continue to assess progress on the implementation of its recommendations and other relevant processes related to reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka, and to present a written update to the Human Rights Council at its forty-third session, and a comprehensive report, followed by a discussion on the implementation of Council resolution 30/1, at its forty-sixth session. And what are the demands contained in the 30/1 resolution of 2015 which the new sponsors too keep harping upon and insisting it be done to their satisfaction before the cross is dismantled and Lanka set free? Namely a credible investigation into alleged war crimes, accountability, a hybrid court with a foreign element involved in monitoring the process. It showed that the western nations were still out to get their pound of flesh and, despite the change of guards, both at home and abroad, there would be no let up even if Lanka were to bleed more than the actions taken by her to end the terrorist war and restore peace merited. Serious stuff. On the cross. Awaiting to be nailed. That is Lankas present fate. Condemned not on the judgment of a Daniel but by those drenched with the blood of those they slaughtered throughout the centuries in pursuit of their colonial ambitions, now come to deliver verdict on this island race for a stain on its sleeve, part of which is its own blood. Not only those who came before the ecclesiastical courts of yore seeking equitable justice were expected to come with clean hands but the same principle held true for those who charged others with bloodied hands. But the world has changed and might has replaced right. Their institutions, their courts, their members: their car, their petrol; so whos to question the destination they seek to arrive at? No wonder it had the officials at the Foreign Ministry burning the midnight oil trying to compile report after report on how this Government had done its best to satisfy the demands of the international community as best it could have; how, despite the political odds, it had striven to achieve at least some of the tasks demanded. But for what purpose did they burn the midnight oil when, according to President Sirisena there was a simpler and surefire way to end the persecution not for two years but forever? A solution that had defied the foreign office mandarins The President, who stated last week that decisions concerning foreign policy and international affairs are the sole preserve of the president of the country and taken by him alone, told the heads of media institutions last week that he planned to tell the United Nations Human Rights branch, the United Nations Commission of Human Rights, before whose altar Lanka perforce must kneel, confess, beat her breasts and prove she has done her penance to receive dispensation for alleged war crimes, It has been 10 years since the end of the war and we have established peace in this country. I want to tell them not to pressure us and allow us to solve our internal matters. I want to tell them, he said dramatically to the assembled media bosses, I want to tell this United Nations body why open old wounds. Just forget about this war crimes probe. And let us live in peace and harmony. Just forget the past. Well, its a tactic this direct approach that may well work, though it has never been tried before by any other country charged with violating human rights to tell the United Nations where to get off the bus and to just live and let live and just let bygone be bygones. But when news spread of the presidential solution to the crisis, it had the Foreign Ministry officials pants in a twist. All the justifications they had mustered to present before the UNHRC this coming week in Geneva at the 40/1 session to gain a two year reprieve and ward off Lankas Day of Judgment seemed all in vain. A simple farmer with his mud washed away and now the presidential king a Mahadanamuttha with grassroots wisdom no less had come up with the obvious simple but ingenious solution to the problem which had for so long eluded some of the best brains at the highest rungs of the civil service : Just tell the UN to forget the whole darned thing. Pure genius. The only problem was whether the human rights diehards at the UNHRC would venture to buy it. And lower their bayonets pointed at the nation before the Lankan presidents appeal to them to condemn to the dustbin the damning dossier of war crimes allegedly committed by Government forces, forget it all and carry on as if nothing had ever happened. Certainly, Ranil Wickremesinghes government did not buy it. And decided that such a simpleton approach would not do to resolve the issues faced before an international forum. It would be like a man accused of murder going before a criminal court and telling the judge, as his only defence to the charge murder, look here, my good man, the person is dead, nothing said here will bring him back to life, so lets forget the whole thing and let me go home to live in peace. Thus instructed, the UNP controlled Foreign Ministry struck back to assure the international community that Sri Lanka will continue to demonstrate its commitment and determination towards a steady and long-lasting reconciliation process through a co-sponsored resolution, and will seek an extension of the timeline of the Resolution 30/1 of 01 October 2015, through a co-sponsored roll-over resolution at the ongoing 40th session of the UNHRC. In a joint statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Prime Ministers Office and the Department of Government Information, it was further stated that this initiative will further attest to Sri Lankas ownership of the implementation process and to its continued policy of constructive engagement and dialogue with the UN and bilateral partners. The statement added: Sri Lanka reiterated its strongest commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights, in keeping with international human rights standards and Sri Lankas international obligations. The Secretary General underlined the importance of an accountability process for addressing violations of international humanitarian and human rights law. The Government will take measures to address those grievances. In the last few years, the GoSL has taken concrete steps such as the establishment of a Missing Persons Office and an Office for Reparations to establish long lasting peace and reconciliation in Sri Lanka in addition to the establishment of Independent Commissions, enhanced by the enactment of a number of enabling laws, including for the Right to Information. This led to the people of Sri Lanka benefiting from economic dividends, including in particular, the European Unions Generalized Scheme/System of Preferences Plus concessions. A few more laws will be introduced to strengthen the ongoing processes. The entire mechanism and process of reconciliation is under the control of GoSL. Those who shed crocodile tears on behalf of War Heroes of Sri Lanka conveniently forget the fact that our brave soldiers are right now engaged in peacekeeping in Mali and in other places. This became possible due to our co-sponsoring of the Resolution. Further, military to military cooperation has expanded considerably, with more training opportunities for Sri Lankan soldiers. The pride of our war heroes has been protected and the confidence of the international community has been gained through the owning up of the UNHRC process. We were able to witness this during the funerals of our two Army peacekeeping soldiers recently. The draft roll-over resolution recognises the strong role played by the democratic institutions in the peaceful resolution of the political situation that arose in Sri Lanka from October to December last year, which is a strong testimony to the independence, credibility and resilience of our national institutions. The allegations made against the co-sponsoring of the roll-over resolution by the GoSL are part of the campaign to mislead the public and gain undue political advantage. However, the general public of this country is aware how the Government came to power in 2015, and helped to avert a looming international catastrophe by co-sponsoring the resolution at that time. The current initiative is nothing but seeking more time for the GoSL to address the issues of reconciliation, peace building and national integration. For instance, the GoSL was unable to finalise some of the required legislation due to the infamous Constitutional Coup of 26 October 2018. Those who try to seek cheap political advantages shamelessly of a situation in which the country needs to be salvaged are the real traitors of our Motherland. On Thursday, Foreign Minister Marapana flew to Geneva carrying with him in his briefcase a report to answer the claims mde by the UNHRC at the failure of the Government to ahere to the commitments it had made. Earlier on Wednsday, he had told parliament that The draft resolution before the UNHRC and the report of the OHCHR are two different things. Do not mix up the two. We do not endorse everything stated in the OHCHR report. For example, it says the government has not returned the North and East lands used by the military. About 90 percent of those lands have been returned to the original occupants. Likewise, it contains several points that we cannot agree with. We can raise those concerns. But one thing is for sure. He would not have carried with him in his diplomatic pouch the Presidents simple message to resolve the complex issues involved that It has been 10 years since the end of the war and we have established peace in this country. Do not pressure us. Allow us to solve our internal matters. Why open old wounds. Just forget about this war crimes probe. And let us live in peace and harmony. Just forget the past. Ah, Attorney at Law and present Foreign Minister Marapana would have mused on his six-hour flight to the Alpines, if life was that simple, then pigs would fly and cows would jump over the moon on moonless nights with glad delight. What an idiot he would make of himself before the world if his only defence at the bar of this international forum was to plead on behalf of his country: Dont make much ado about nothing. Why open old wounds and make them bleed again. Forget the past and let bygones be bygones and let us all live happily hereafter in peace and jollity. He would have been, as they say in jocular legal parlance, laughed out of court. Meanwhile last Friday, the President Sirisena speaking at the launch of the Sinhala translation of The Viceroy Special, authored by Defence Secretary Hemasiri Fernando, said that he told those responsible for the construction of the Colombo-Kandy Expressway to continue with their work without flattening mountains and ruining the environment, but they had continued building this road ignoring his instructions and it is clear that there is no one in this government who accepts what he says. Everybody knows that I am the minister in charge of the subject of environment and before the construction of the Colombo-Kandy Expressway began, I told the big man in Colombo and the big man in Kandy not to level the mountains. But it seems that they are not listening to me, he moped. If the big man in Colombo and the big man in Kandy are not listening to him when he is the executive president of this country, what on earth gives him the idea that the United Nations will listen to him and follow his bidding when he requests them to forget the past, let bygones be bygones? The lion sleeps all night whilst the lioness hunts State Minister of Finance Eran Wickramaratne told Parliament on Monday that Private sector companies are reluctant to recruit women as they should be given benefits as per the legislation. This is precisely why the government decided to alleviate the burden and offer tax concessions to companies that provide benefits to women. The age limit too will be rescinded. That is to be commended. But he is also reported to have said that This move will empower women to enter the national workforce. In the present context, womens contribution to the economy is minimal. What? Womens contribution to the economy is minimal? That is to be corrected. Isnt the honest to goodness ex-banker and econonist Eran unaware of the immense contribution women make to the economy and how they help his finanace minister to narrow the deficit in his annual budget? Doesnt he know: n That thousands of women working abroad, leaving behind their families, to sweat it out in Arabian dunes at the risk of being raped, abused, beheaded and returning coffined home, contribute approximately eight billion dollars and is the highest export earner beating both tea and garments? n That its an all women force that plucks the nations tea leaves, one of Lankas traditional top export earners? n That over 95 percent of rubber tappers are women? n That more than 75 percent of teachers are women? n That over 95 per cent of nurses are women? n That both in the private and public sector, there is an increasing presence of women in employment? n That in the agricultural sector, its mainly women who reap the paddy at harvest time n That in the garment sector, another top export earner, nearly 100 percent of who sew are women? In view of this, isnt it a travesty to say that womens contribution to the economy is minimal and belittle the workload they stoically bear without making a song and dance of it? On the contrary, its the Lankan male that adopts the same posture of the lion that sleeps in the jungle leaving his mate to do the hunting and bring to his den the venson. SUNDAY PUNCH ODE Fallen Star By Don Manu Once it was that I soared with wonder and delight, As your wandering star enticed and beckoned me To set my sails by your guiding light; And dare beyond the horizon of my surging hopes In the elusive quest for my holy grail; You lured me from that calm cove and still water Of placid content and complacency To toss in turbulent seas of unknown; And behold beyond my reach, my feeble grasp The isle shore of illusion and despair That leaves souls deadened stranded beyond hope. And now, when my raft of vain ambition Has floundered upon the rocks and lie dashed Upon the graveyard sea that sucks unto itself, To its bottomless depths, the flotsam that hovers above, You, my shattered star of hope and promise That once bathed the western skylight With my hopes and dreams With ceaseless visions of triumph and glory Urging me on to assail the unassailable; Now in my moment of truimphant climax You choose to wane and die And, in those death throes of convulsion and contraction. Drag me with devasting fury of gravity Into the blackest hole of dark despair Never ever to see the flickering light of hope But condemned beyond redemption to languish In the nethermost region of infinite hell Where light itself lie imprisoned sans escape In the blackest valut where Darkness Sits visible, in all its horror, holding court Extensive public consultations a must on Sri Lankas counter-terror bill View(s): In contrast to Colombos largely polarized sound and fury on the Counter-Terror Bill, it is refreshing to look at the manner in which South Africa has dealt with uncannily similar dilemmas of balancing national security imperatives and constitutional rights in bringing its counter-terror law into effect more than a decade ago. Shared legacies of horrific state violence There are indeed, much in common between South Africa and Sri Lanka in shared histories of horrific state violence. We have similar legacies of over-broad national security/emergency regimes that replaced the criminal procedure law and gave state agents the literal power of life and death over citizens across racial and ethnic lines. In more recent times, there are great similarities in dysfunctional state processes of both countries when the law is translated from theory to practice. This is important to recognise as this is why good legal provisions falter in the practically subversive context of state impunity unchecked by the Constitution. Indeed, this is the signal difference in contrast to functional Rule of Law countries, even if we are to recognise the retreat of the liberal rights culture in those countries as they face the brutality of global terrorism. That said, there are notable differences between the two nations. As a senior legal practitioner and a celebrated South African rights advocate elaborated for my benefit in a measured discussion in Johannesburg a few days ago, South Africas Constitutional Court has proved itself to be a formidable bulwark against state repression. Even in tense economic times and uncertain political turbulence similar to what Sri Lankans face, it is a matter for pride that the South African Court has stood firm above the frantic winds of popular and political pressure. Most importantly, it has unflinchingly refused to accept the dictate of the State in pleading national security to shield state action contrary to the Rule of Law. That is not something that we see frequently here. Our Supreme Court, even in the best of times and with the best of judges a decade or two ago, was not quite able to emulate that judicial fortitude. Now, that has got significantly worse. A crisper and more conceptually sound law Nonetheless and despite this one singular difference regarding the tried and tested strength of the Court, Sri Lanka may benefit from looking to South Africa to understand its counter-terror law as well as the process by which it came into being. We may learn from these experiences even as we labour over the difficult balance to be struck between the protection of national security and safeguarding constitutional freedoms, rather than copy cat Western legal models, which too many analysts are carelessly fond of doing in this country. In substance, South Africas Act is far crisper and far more conceptually sound than Sri Lankas bulky and unfortunately repetitive Counter Terror Bill now before Parliament. The South African version does not provide for administrative detention at the whim and fancy of the state authority. This resistance to arbitrary detention without proper charges being framed comes from bitter experiences of political and police brutality under the apartheid regime. Its definition of what constitutes a terrorist act is far narrower than the meandering definitions in Sri Lankas Bill which includes not only the primary offence but a bewildering range of associated offences that gives too much leeway to law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies. Interestingly, the South African law brings in the idea of threatening the unity and territorial integrity of the Republic. As must be recalled, this reference to unity was taken out in its Sri Lankan counter part following public protests. In a mission to South Africa soon after this Act was operationalised, Martin Scheinin then Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism, praised the South African Government for the consultative process that it followed when enacting the law. However, he recommended that the Government closely monitor the implementation of the new law and amend it, if needed, given problems in some definitions. Need for legal definitions to be clear His anxiety was in relation to the fact that even though the definition of terrorist acts in South Africas law, when read cumulatively, sets up several thresholds of severity in order for an act to constitute terrorismthere are, however, elements of the definition which may convey the idea that even less severe acts may amount to terrorism (see A/HRC/6/17/Add.2 5 November 2007). The definition of terrorist activity was assessed to be concerning as it covered several offences that do not necessarily include deadly or otherwise serious violence against members of the general population or segments of it. Moreover Article 12 of the law enforced a duty on members of the public to report crimes under the Act which directly infringed freedom of expression rights and in particular, the ability of journalists to protect their sources. These are discussions that are useful for us here given the Counter-Terror Bills impact on the media. Clause 10 (g) problematically defines aiding terrorism as intentionally and unlawfully distributing or otherwise making available any information to the public having intent to incite the commission of the offence of terrorism or other offence under this Act. This is coupled with the fear of such offence being committed despite such conduct not expressly advocating such an offence. In addition there is an entire range of suggested offences in sub-clauses (i) to (L) linked to illegal or unauthorised acts in relation to confidential information despite all these terms being legally ambiguous. These are intensely worrying gaps in the Bill. Taking public concerns into account Above all, it is illustrative for Sri Lanka that the enactment of South Africas Protection of Constitutional Democracy against Terrorism and Related Activities Act (Act 33 of 2004) was preceded by broad public consultations. Critiques raised by rights advocates, analytical papers by the Law Reform Commission of South Africa were examined in a long and deliberative process prior to its adoption and later operationalising on 20 May 2005. A series of discussions with trade unions, student movements, legal and professional bodies was held. The contrast between this and the stealthy manner in which various versions of Sri Lankas Counter-Terror Bill floated around in political back corridors during the past three years cannot be more stark. As I returned to Sri Lanka this week, it was to learn that trade unionists protesting against the Bill had been repelled by water cannons by the police. Is this really the way that the Government wishes to put forward this law, given the ugliness of our history? The claims of the protesters may be a trifle over-exaggerated and in some respects, rather rib-ticklingly funny as in accusing Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe of trying to create a Hitleresque regime for example. But the disquiet of both trade unions and the media over the Bill is very real, as emphasized earlier in these column spaces. These concerns must be taken into account if more (legitimate) public discontent with this yahapalanaya (good governance) administration is not to be evidenced. NPC orders reinstatement of top officer; probe on his explosive allegations View(s): The National Police Commission (NPC) has ordered the immediate re-instatement of an officer in charge of a specialized unit fighting crime and started investigations into explosive allegations he has made. The officer concerned had alleged that a senior, higher ranking officer, allegedly wanted him to kill a drug suspect arrested for a second time. When he had refused to carry out what he called an illegal order, the officer had immediately been moved out. The senior officer, however, has denied the allegation. The serious allegations of the officer against his senior have been recorded in the Information Book of the unit concern. This has raised eyebrows in the Police Department. NPC sources said yesterday that Police Chief Pujith Jayasundera has been told to re-instate the officer to his original position. This is while the Commission conducts a full inquiry into his complaint. The officer concerned heads a 150-strong unit and has complained to the NPC that there have been no previous complaints against him. He said the Police Chief has cited service needs as the reason why he was moved out. However, he has claimed he was transferred unreasonably with immediate effect to the Police HQ for normal duties on a baseless and false report submitted by a senior officer. He has added: The reason for the unreasonable transfer is the refusal to carryout illegal orders issued to me and two Sub inspectors I have with me required evidence which could be produced at the required time regarding my refusal to perform the illegal orders given to me and two Sub Inspectors, he has said. Senior DIG accused of sexual harassment, but case drags on In sexual harassment cases prosecution takes a long time in any court of law, but when it comes to police investigating its own top brass accused of similar allegations, it also appears that a long time is taken to probe these cases. A senior Deputy Inspector General (DIG) who was accused of sexual harassment of fellow women police personnel was recalled to Head Quarters in Colombo last year after the National Police Commission (NPC) launched investigations against him. It recommended to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) that he be transferred immediately. The NPC also recommended that the CID initiate criminal investigations against him and charge him in a court of law. According to the NPC it is now upto the police to decide on further steps in this regard, but no action appears to have been taken so far. Free laptops, free wifi but but no free hard copy of Constitution Mahajana Eksath Peramuna (MEP) Leader Dinesh Gunawardena protested furiously in Parliament this week after officials charged him Rs 400 to give him a copy of the Constitution. I entered Parliament in 1983. Never before have I been charged Rs 400 when I have asked for a copy of the Constitution from Parliament. How shameful! he said while speaking during Wednesdays Committee Stage debate on the Budget. He noted that MPs did not carry copies of the Constitution with them all the time and as such, Parliament officials should provide those copies free of charge. Not surprisingly, Mr Gunawardenas complaint did not go down well on social media, with users pointing out that the Constitution was available to be downloaded for free off the internet. Given that Parliament has provided free laptops for each MP and that free WiFi was available throughout the Parliamentary complex, questions were raised as to why MPs could not simply download a copy and have it printed. Either he is ignorant, or simply wants the paper edition to sell at 17 rupees a kilo, one Twitter user commented, while others offered to sponsor Mr Gunawardena if he could not afford to buy a copy. Lankan girl leads #MeToo protest at Harvard An ancestral Sri Lankan student is one of the leading campaigners at Harvard University demanding the ouster of professor Ronald S. Sullivan Jr. He has been lambasted for joining a team of lawyers defending Hollywood movie mogul Harvey Weinstein who is accused of sexual harassment, rape and sexual abuse in a string of allegations over the last few months. Do you really want to one day accept your diploma from someone who for whatever reason, professional or personal, believes it is OK to defend such a prominent figure at the center of the #MeToo movement, wrote Danukshi Mudannayake, in the petition against Sullivan. The #MeToo movement is a collective backlash by women and womens groups in the US against sexual abuse and harassment. The New York Times described Sullivan as an accomplished lawyer, the Director of Harvards criminal law clinic and the first African-American to be appointed as a faculty Dean. A design editor of the Harvard newspaper, The Crimson, Ms Mudannayake said the students quarrel was not that Prof Sullivan took on a controversial, high-profile client. But that faculty Deans are responsible for setting the tone and culture in their dorms, and students at Winthrop House felt that Sullivans representation of Weinstein disrupted the safe atmosphere of their community on campus. But his decision to join the team of lawyers representing Mr Weinstein had set off protests and an intense debate at Harvard. In his defense, Prof Sullivan was quoted as saying: Lawyers are not an extension of their clients. Lawyers do law work, not the work of ideology. Ms Mudannayake wrote: Everyone on this campus knows what #MeToo is, and who Harvey Weinstein is. And its just shocking that its been brought quite literally to some students doorsteps. Ms Mudannayake is a Junior at Harvard studying Visual and Environmental Studies and is an independent filmmaker and screenwriter having written, directed, and produced two short films. Picking fights, crying foul View(s): Aiyo Sirisena, I thought I must write to you when I heard that you want to run for the top job again and that you are still hopeful that the pohottuwa chaps will support your campaign just like the Greens did four years ago. Honestly, I didnt know whether to laugh or to cry, but there are a few issues I wanted to clarify. I am aware that neither the Blues, the Greens or the pohottuwa chaps have formally declared their candidates for the big race yet but whenever Basil or Mahinda maama are asked who their nominee would be, they say it will be someone who can win. What they are saying is that it is not you! We cant blame them either. The person we elected was a meek Gramasevaka who promised to abolish the Presidency and return to farming in Polonnaruwa after five years. What we got instead was an emperor who is trying every trick in the book to stay in power for the next five years. The chap the country voted for was a humble fellow who won the hearts of people by promising to get rid of the excesses of Mahinda maamas last government. What we got instead was someone who violated the Constitution and re-appointed Mahinda maama, so that he could get his support again. Given this track record, is it surprising that Basil and Mahinda maama dont want to endorse you? They must know that you can do to them what you did to the Green Man get their support to get elected and then do as you please, ignoring convention and the Constitution and creating confusion! Why, just last week, you were planning to send your own team to that meeting in Geneva where they discuss our human rights record while our Foreign Ministry would have sent their own set of officials. The Eelamists would have then had the last laugh because it would have been like two separate states! You wanted Mahinda Sam to represent you and praise our war heroes so you could be a hero to local voters. It didnt matter to you that, with one nation sending two teams, we would become the laughing stock of the world. Mahinda Sam said he was the best person to lead us at Geneva because he had done so for 10 years but that is as good as the Green Man saying he is the best person to lead the Greens because he has done so for 25 years. Fortunately, sanity prevailed in the end and we had one delegation! Of course, even if you got your way and there were two delegations representing us, no one would have been surprised. Thanks to you, first we had two Prime Ministers, then we had two Opposition Leaders, so why should anyone be concerned about two delegations representing us in Geneva? That is not the only time you were flexing your muscles and spoiling for a fight. You are forever complaining against the Council that Karu heads, saying they are not allowing you to make appointments to the bench the way you want to but wasnt that the very purpose of that Council? Having had your nominees rejected repeatedly, you have now appointed someone in an acting capacity to one of the courts. Many ask whether you can do so, but we shouldnt be surprised because when you asked for our vote four years ago, you were also acting and you did so very well! Even as you were trying to show the Greens who the boss was, the Greens were also trying to teach you a lesson. So, some of them were threatening to vote against allocating you any money from the Budget. Had that happened, Aiyo Sirisena, many would have said that you deserved no better. What you dont perhaps realise, Aiyo Sirisena, is that with most of your decisions aimed at deviously undermining what the Greens do, this country is not going anywhere. The Greens have not lived up to expectations and they too must share the blame but you have also been a boss like no other! Nothing is certain in politics but we can certainly say that you will be what you promised to be: a one term boss. Make the most of it while you can. That doesnt mean you need to go on safari while in Kenya to see wildlife you have already been to the House by the Diyawanna Oya, havent you? Yours truly, Punchi Putha PS: Your desire to send Mahinda Sam to Geneva reminded me that there are too many MSs in this government. There is Mahinda Sam, Mangala Sam and Malik Sam and then of course, there is you. And, like the dear departed baila chakravarthi MS who sang baila, all of you sing baila too but there are no prizes for guessing who, among the four of you, is the baila chakravarthi! Political infighting and this mockery of diplomacy View(s): There is an old story apocryphal or not, I dont know that Roman Emperor Caligula found his representatives serving in distant parts of his realm so inefficient that he wanted to send his favourite horse as a consul believing that it would serve him better than some of his two-legged representatives. If Caligula found his faithful steed had more horse-sense than some of his envoys who might well pass off as diplomutts, as we termed them some five years or so ago, it is understandable he would consider promoting his horse over the asses, who represented him in Rome and elsewhere. Caligula was luckily not his real name. But then it was certainly better than that of his mother who was known as Agripinna the Elder. Anyway the state of our diplomacy and some of those who represent our governments these days and those in governments who appoint them does raise both ire and guffaws often in equal measure. Early last week, I read of Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana (was this his second coming?) addressing a group of military men who had gone through a course at the Bandaranaike International Diplomatic Training Institute (BIDTI) and had being trained to be defence attaches/advisers in some of our diplomatic missions abroad. At their passing out (not quite a parade though) the learned counsel (sorry, sorry) the Hon. Minister told them of their main duty. And that was to serve the people of Sri Lanka. Now that is what you would call great thinking. Had Caligula lived he would have had the learned minister visit every nook and corner of his empire spreading the good word and enlightening the emperor and his subjects. Stressing the obvious is not a bad lesson to teach after all. Stressing what everybody knows or should know is a good lesson to be kept in mind though most politicians (not to mention some diplomutts) tend to forget or ignore this sacred lesson. They prefer to rely more on that adage that accruing wealth, if not dipping their fingers deep into the State treasury, like charity, should begin at home. So all this garbage about serving the people and the nation is what one tells a gullible populace. That is the public face, the facade intended to fool the citizenry, especially the voters who are looking forward to chuck the current blighters out and elect a new lot who they think will serve them honestly. They seem to have forgotten the words of that great revolutionary Che Guevara, who said that Cruel leaders are replaced only to have new leaders turn cruel. Maithripala Sirisena, who, in his youth, is said to have dabbled in Left politics, might have read it somewhere at some time. If not, one can always replace cruel with crooked and one would still be hitting the bulls eye. Those who join the armed forces, I believe, take an oath to serve the nation. Perhaps Minister Marapana is not aware that public officials also take an oath at the beginning of each year to uphold the Constitution and serve the nation. This is read out and is repeated by state officials and staff in our diplomatic missions on the first day they come to work in the new year. So to tell uniformed personnel that they must first serve the people/nation is so much frippery since they have already taken an oath to service the nation. That is, unless, Minister Marapana is drawing a distinction between the nation and its citizens. Now that this training course was to give officers a lesson in diplomacy and diplomatic practice, one wonders whether they were reminded of or any questions were raised about the unfortunate recall of Brigadier Priyanka Fernando over a hand gesture he made drawing his finger across his throat during last years Sri Lanka Independence Day ceremony. There is no need to go into the history of this incident, especially as the Westminster Chief Magistrates Court is to have further hearings later this month. What is interesting is that a barrister who appeared in Brigadier Fernandos defence is said to have, according several media reports, argued that this throat-slitting gesture was part of this job description, which I believe is being contested by the prosecution. There are many, including lawyers, who believe that this is a doubtful defence. Anyway there will be many who will be waiting eagerly for the next court sitting in a few days time. One wonders whether the foreign minister has warned the prospective defence attaches to make sure that each job description does include throat-cutting hand gestures as an essential part of a defence attaches official duties lest he be charged under British law, while police and prosecutors ignore public displays of LTTE flags and portraits of Prabhakaran which are prohibited under Englands Terrorism law. When the Foreign Ministry and the President acted differently with regard to the brigadiers case, it only signalled to the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Tamil diaspora that the Sri Lanka government is divided. It opened the doors to some Tamils playing innocent babies frightened by a gesture from 20 yards away, to explore the possibilities of legal action. The decision of our Foreign Ministry to suspend the brigadier from duties and ask him to return to Colombo was disputed by the President who withheld the immediate recall. As political relations between the two senior partners in the yahapalana coalition worsened, not only was Sirisena disputing certain decisions and selections to diplomatic posts, he was only openly claiming that he did not know of Sri Lanka co-sponsoring the 2015 Resolution at the UNHRC. According to the President, nobody told him of it, just like the 100-Day programme of the new government. He said he did not know who drafted it. That seems strange as it is contained in his own election manifesto and, therefore, was out before the government was installed. With these kinds of political shenanigans publicly known, diplomats serving abroad are not only likely to be confronted by foreign journalists trying to unravel Sri Lankan political conundrums, but they will tend to avoid not only foreign media persons but Sri Lankan journalists, too, who might want to pose certain questions on developments in Colombo. The curtain was about to go up on the grand comedy when President Sirisena decided to send his own delegation to the Geneva meeting of the UNHRC. The official delegation was originally to be led by Ambassador Azeez, our representative to the UN in Geneva. The original delegation which was to have political representatives will now be headed by Minister Marapana and will include Sarath Amunugama from the presidents delegation and the Northern Province Governor Suren Raghavan, who is trying to dig his own diplomatic furrow to India, ignoring diplomatic traditions, protocol and courtesies. Had the President and the Foreign Ministry stuck to their original plans, it would have created an utterly uncomfortable scene for Ambassador Azeez. Would he take his instructions from the Foreign Ministry on the new resolution being proposed by the core group led by the UK or would he have to follow suggestions made by the presidential envoys. This is the kind of contretemps that diplomats, especially those serving abroad, find themselves in. Not that there are no diplomats who are willing and able to serve all sorts of political masters to save their skins or more likely to win favours by bending in two and even three. While politicians steadfastly continue to sling mud and other projectiles, the US prosecutors want to have more than a word with our one time ambassador to Washington, Jaliya Wickremasuriya, and Sri Lanka would like to have a couple of words with our former ambassador to Moscow, Udayanga Weeratunge, two political ambassadors. Meanwhile, as I pointed out a long time ago, Washington is still without a head of mission one and a half years or so after the last one quit. I also hear that a presidential nominee to Singapore has been contested by the Foreign Ministry. When will these tweedledee and tweedledum games end? Perhaps, a charity shop can donate some childrens games so the people and the world will be free of such a political gridlock. Thaw in relations with the United National Front (UNF) Invites Foreign Minister Marapana to lead Sri Lanka delegation Premier Wickremesinghes political strike pays dividends Gotabayas candidature wins family blessings President Maithripala Sirisena left behind new political quagmires as he emplaned last Wednesday for the Kenyan capital of Nairobi. The visit there was for the high-level segment of the fourth assembly of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) from March 11 to 15. This event is expressly for ministers or officials of the UN body which numbers 125. Sri Lanka is formally represented at the UNEP by Sunil de Silva, High Commissioner for Kenya. In fact, the UN presence in that country has been the main cause for retaining the countrys diplomatic mission there. There were moves earlier to shut it down. However, President Sirisena is the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment. That placed him, protocol wise, the only Asian head of state or government to attend this assembly. This is not the first time this year. In January he attended the Third Forum of Ministers and Environment Authorities in Asia Pacific in Singapore. Other than a handful of ministers, others taking part were officials. Of course, he seized the opportunity for a meeting with Prime Minister Lee Hsiang Loong. He sought the repatriation of Arjuna Mahendran to Sri Lanka to face charges over the Central Bank bond scandal. Interesting enough, on top of the agenda for the Nairobi event is a resolution on marine litter and microplastics, and on single-use plastics, and the role UNEP can play. In Sri Lanka, Sirisena has not been sucessful yet in his initiative to ban the use of polythene or plastic, from January 1, 2018. They are being used freely by shops, supermarket chains and food outlets even now. Industries are churning out more plastic bags and other products. The protection of the environment has also been largely confined to statutory requirements. Approval of environmental impact assessment reports has been made compulsory by law for different projects. There are yet a number of growing environmental issues that have become a dangerous hazard to the public. One is the exacerbating sound pollution. Competing bakers have installed noisy public-address systems in three-wheelers that blare at pre-dawn in high residential areas every day. Funny enough, for some of them, the Christmas season had arrived early. The tune is Santa Clause is coming to town. or Wish you a Merry Christmas. playing so loud. Then follows announcers on lorries promoting vegetable plants and seeds. Hard on their heels, come the lorries asking residents to sell their old newspapers, worn out suits, used aluminum utensils and old iron. There are also the buses whose horns could, doctors warn, lead to deafness. They are so loud and reckless; drivers use them frequently to overtake on the wrong side. Only the Anuradhapura Traffic Police have taken notice of this aspect and begun checks. To say that they are on the rapid increase is an understatement but neither the Police nor those dealing with the environment have been able to do anything. It is time they go beyond the environment certificates to ensure that the people do not become victims of sound pollution. Sirisena, the President of Sri Lanka, attending a UN event meant largely for ministers and officials, no doubt, is unusual. More so when he has publicly declared on many occasions that the country is in serious political and economic turmoil. He could argue that he is the Minister of Environment. Though still arguable, it is understandable. He is the epitome of most burning political issues and the pressures arising from them are sure hurting. He took a break with his family in Thailand in December last year. He has found the opportunity for another break to get away from issues. It was last Wednesday, that Parliament was discussing the budgetary allocations for the Presidency. He was not there to defend criticism and explain achievements, he thought it would be better to fly away. This time he was accompanied by former Minister, Wijeyadasa Rajapaksha, now a legal consultant and ex minister Susil Premjayantha. In doing so, he left behind a string of political quagmires, which are bound to have serious repercussions in the political sphere. What is even more significant is the likelihood of some of them unwittingly boomeranging on President Sirisena. Perhaps neither he, nor any of his advisors (if there are), have drawn his attention to the far-reaching implications. Creditworthy enough, the political cunningness of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, the leader of the United National Party (UNP)-led United National Front (UNF), paid heavy dividends and was cause for concern for Sirisena. First to identify the issues in focus: President Sirisena has demonstrated signs of thawing his relations with Premier Wickremesinghe and the UNF. Has he realised that there are no prospects of his becoming the joint candidate for the SLFP and the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) at this years presidential election? Or is it a move to lessen tensions with the UNF ahead of a presidential poll this year? President Sirisena, the leader of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), has through his actions further divided his own party. Six SLFP parliamentarians rebelled against his directive and voted with the UNF on the second reading of the budget. There were others who voiced opposition to him over the directive. He has thus created a new crisis within the SLFP. How many in his own party will back him if he is their lone presidential candidate? Though talks will continue for a common alliance between the SLFP and the SLPP, President Sirisenas actions this week have further weakened such a possibility. In the process, is he contributing to the proposed alliance not becoming a reality? President Sirisena backed out from sending his own three-member delegation to the UN Human Rights Council and agreed that Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana should lead the team. Why did he reverse his earlier hardline move, which raised eyebrows in the international community? Could he not have avoided the embarrassment with a decision earlier to have a unified approach? In the end, has he not fallen in line with the UNF approach at the Human Rights Council? Maithris thaw of relations with the UNF That backchannel links between President Sirisena and some UNPers had remained, despite the strained relationship, is known. The over-riding factor was that it served as a sounding platform to convey each others thinking on different issues. That hot line of sorts became effective this week. It was Premier Wickremesinghe, known well for his cunning political manipulation who outdid others. He set in motion a sequence of events. Known for outsourcing his thinking on different issues to be articulated by less powerful parliamentarians, he tasked Mujibur Rahman, (UNP- Colombo Central) to make an announcement to the media. That was to say that a group of back bench MPs would not give their assent on the budgetary votes of the Presidency. This is when Parliament took up for discussion the votes during the Committee Stage of the budget debate. Non-Cabinet Minister Harsha de Silva, who was unaware of the nuances, simply denied the remarks publicly a usual practice for him. However, the man to whom the remarks were meant President Maithripala Sirisena took the message very seriously. President Sirisena was in Parliament last Tuesday, just a day before he left for Nairobi. This issue was foremost in his mind. He had earlier made it known to the Joint Opposition leadership that the SLFP would abstain from voting on the budget. He said the MPs would keep away. The JO had decided it would oppose the budget. The bind now is over what would happen if the vote on the Presidency was defeated leaving him with no funds to function. There were many dissenting voices who asked Sirisena why the party is taking such a position particularly when it had earlier agreed to abstain. Duminda Dissanayake (UPFA Anuradhapura District) was a lone voice that strongly advocated that they should back the government in the budget vote. He is known for interacting with the UNP in the past several months. After the vote in favour, a few SLFPers were now hopeful that President Sirisena would allow them to join the UNF cabinet a move that is extremely unlikely. There was a formal explanation for Sirisenas action. The President, who is head of government, it was argued, cannot be seen to be voting against his own administration. True. But a corollary to that argument was an important question how then could President Sirisena join in a common alliance with opposition parties? The answer to this question naturally widens President Sirisenas trust deficit with the SLPP albeit the Joint Opposition. This perhaps is another reason for him now trying to go soft on the UNF. He is now certain he will not be the SLFP-SLPP joint candidate at this years presidential election. Reports that former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa will be the JOs choice have increased after he visited the United States Embassy in Colombo on March 6. This is to hand in papers to renounce his United States citizenship. The Embassy does not comment on such matters. Adding to that are reports that Mahinda Rajapaksa and senior members of his family at a meeting on Thursday night at his official residence in Wijerama collectively gave their blessing to his candidature. On the other hand, Premier Wickremesinghe carried through his strategy from behind-the-scenes by allowing his UNF parliamentarians to speak on the Presidency. They hit out at President Sirisena in Parliament. The most vociferous was Hirunika Premachandra, (UNP Colombo District). She said President Maithripala Sirisena could never be trusted. We were made aware of that on October 26, last year, but the other opposition members knew of this earlier. Again yesterday (Wednesday), when the vote was taken, he did the same thing for them (meaning the opposition). Therefore, he cannot be believed for five cents. He has never acted in a straight forward manner and could not be trusted even as a person. He has not stood up for any public issues. Do not fall in the same trap by appointing him as a presidential candidate. He even went on to ruin the political future of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa who was on a clear political path leading the SLPP.. However, some senior SLFPers charged that Hirunika Premachandra was voicing her anger against President Sirisena, because, they claimed, there were moves to grant a presidential pardon to Duminda Silva, former MP, who is now serving a sentence for the alleged murder of her father Bharatha Lakshman Premachandra. He was former parliamentarian and presidential advisor. When it came to voting time, Wickremesinghe ensured there was no division. Thus, the vote on the Presidency was passed unanimously. Sirisena was airborne by that time. There was also a quid pro quo. President Sirisena concurred with the UNF on two persons to be appointed to the Court of Appeal. He wrote to the Consitutional Council recommending their appointment. Senior SLPPers alleged that Sirisena had not fulfilled his promise to appoint the senior-most person, as agreed earlier, to be President of the Court of Appeal. The two new names are now before the Constitutional Council to be members of the Court of Appeal. Moves to have them approved during a CC meeting on Sunday (today) failed. Mahinda Rajapaksa, Leader of the Opposition and a member of the CC said he would not be available on that day. Hence, the meeting has now been scheduled for Monday (tomorrow). Another was the dialogue facilitated by a former UNPer, now removed from the Working Committee by Premier Wickremesinghe, with a powerful cabinet minister. That link enabled President Sirisena, a source close to him said, to accomplish several key tasks on the economic front. The confidence building by this intermediary has also led to the minister receiving greater responsibility periodically. President Sirisena, much to the chagrin of UNPers, also publicly praised the initiatives of the minister concerned. The latter had been bitterly critical of Sirisena during the events in October last year. A divided Sri Lanka Freedom Party At last Tuesdays voting for the second reading of the budget, six SLFP parliamentarians defied President Sirisenas directive. They voted in favour of the UNF government. The SLFPers are Indika Bandaranaike (Kurunegala District), Vijith Vijithamuni de Zoysa (Moneragala District), Manusha Nanayakkara (Galle District), Lakshman Seneviratne (Badulla Distict), Piyasena Gamage (Galle District) and A.H.M. Fowzie (SLFP National List). Dilan Perera (SLFP National List) had a meeting with President Sirisena where he questioned his decision to back the budget. Similarly, Sudarshani Fernandopulle was on her way to Parliament when she received a telephone call from President Sirisena. The latter was on his way to Negombo to attend her father-in-laws (father of late Jeyaraj Fernandopulle) funeral. Fernandopulle had told the President that she was on her way to cast her vote at the second reading. However, the two of them did not vote. Another who was opposed to the move was Lakshman Wasantha Perera (Matale District). He was a member of President Sirisenas team that held negotiations with President Mahinda Rajapaksa before he was named Prime Minister on October 26 last year. The Supreme Court held that it was unconstitutional. The crisis within the SLFP has been cause for disenchantment among its MPs. If it began with Sirisenas election as President in 2015, most of the partys old hands are not active now or backing Mahinda Rajapaksa. This has led to a few like, S.B. Dissanayake and Thilanga Sumathipala being the closest allies to President Sirisena. In the past weeks, they have been engaged in backchannel moves to persuade the SLPP to have a joint May Day rally with the SLFP. However, the initiatives did not materialise. Perhaps a test of strength will come for the SLFP when it chooses to decide whether it would hold a rally on its own and how much crowds it will be able to muster. Besides the fact that Mahinda Amaraweera did not take part in the talks on forming an alliance, another older member absent in this activity is the SLFPs Senior Deputy Leader, Nimal Siripala de Silva. Moreover, SLFP General Secretary Dayasiri Jayasekera, who is heading his partys delegation at the talks is also a relative new comer from the SLFP. He crossed over from the party in 2001 and later returned to the SLFP in 2013. Talks for a common alliance The SLFP and the SLPP delegations met on Thursday for their first round of talks. A notable absentee was Mahinda Amaraweera, the General Secretary of the United Peoples Freedom Alliance (UPFA). The SLFP team was led by SLFP General Secretary Dayasiri Jayasekera and the SLPP by its nominal leader G.L. Peiris. Both Jayasekera and Prof. Peiris, in separate statements, described the talks as very successful a message which was more intended to inspire public confidence and consumption by other political parties. Nevertheless, there were heated issues. The main one which took considerable time is President Sirisenas unexpected move to urge SLFP parliamentarians to first abstain during the vote on the second reading of the budget. Thereafter, on Tuesday he urged that they should vote in favour of the coalition government. Questions were raised about the rationale behind the issue and why he was blowing hot sometimes and cold during other times. The SLFP delegation assured that there would be a formal explanation from them when they meet next on March 21. That issue naturally raised concerns over confidence and trust they had on Sirisena. The fact that the SLFP General Secretary too had publicly criticised the SLPP de facto leader also caused concerns among SLPPers. During discussions among themselves, there were SLPP leaders who were asking whether it was wise to come to terms with the SLFP leader and his party under such circumstances. They charged that President Sirisena kept on changing his mind. However, most are in favour and argue that the precursor to the alliance is that the parties involved would pledge to adhere to the constitution and other agreed policies. The prospects of the two sides signing an agreement or a Memorandum of Understanding on the framework of their relationship was also discussed. This is besides a common constitution for all parties represented in the alliance. Another proposal discussed was for both the SLFP and the SLPP to hold a joint May Day rally. No decision was reached. It is unlikely the SLPP will now be willing. The SLPP side is now awaiting an explanation on why the SLFP backed the government on the budget vote. If the SLPP is not happy with the answer, the process, no doubt, will be delayed. It has little or nothing to do with President Sirisenas candidature, said a senior SLPP member. This raises a very serious poser. In the event Sirisena is not a joint presidential candidate and chooses to contest on his own, what would happen to the proposed alliance? Of course, that will not be known, if as Sirisena says, he would run the full term of the presidency. Obviously, he cannot have one foot in the SLFP and another in the SLPP. That is the delicate choice for President Sirisena. He would have to decide after taking into account how many SLFPers would back him and how many would leave, both to the UNF and the SLPP. A move to contest the presidency alone will see the presence of an SLPP nominee and one from the UNF a scenario where equations could be entirely different. In such an event, the votes of the minority communities, particularly Tamils who are weighted in favour of the UNF, would become more relevant. So would the votes of the Muslim community. That also raises the spectre of a polarisation of voters on community-based lines. Sources privy to the discussion said the focus at the talks was on reviewing the past political situation and on the adoption of future policies. According to them, a draft text of the constitution of the proposed new alliance has been handed over for study by the SLFP. The matter is to be taken up for discussion on March 21 when the next meeting is held. Herein lies the crunch. Such a constitution will require all partners of the proposed new alliance to adhere to its provisions. Even if the SLFP does win concessionary terms in view of its numerical strength, there will be no new advantages to it except perhaps one. That is the fact that a common alliance would be the greatest threat to the UNF at a presidential election. It would then be a one-on-one political battle where predictions are easier than in a three-cornered one. More than anything else, the SLFPs explanation on why Prsident Sirisena backed the budget vote, contrary to assurances given to them, will now be a key factor. The UN Human Rights Council sessions As reported in these columns last week, the US-backed resolution on Sri Lanka, (No: 30/1), which was co-sponsored by Sri Lanka, is back in focus. UN Human Rights High Commissioner Michele Bachelot Juras report will come up for discussion on March 20. President Sirisenas efforts to have the co-sponsorship of the resolution withdrawn did not materialise. A news release issued by the Foreign Ministry our report last week said, on matters relating to the ongoing UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) sessions in Geneva, Sri Lanka was unable to finalise some of the required legislation due to the infamous Constitutional Coup of 26th October 2018. There was, however, no mention about who triggered that Constitutional Coup though the two-page press release, funny enough, acknowledged the consequences. The answer was still obvious it was President Maithripala Sirisena. Instead, there was blame by the Foreign Ministry on those who try to seek cheap political advantages shamelessly of a situation in which the country needs to be salvaged are the real traitors of our Motherland. One need not be a soothsayer to say that the veiled but poisonous attack is on the UNF leadership. Dishing out the dubious national title of traitor has remained the prerogative of even the previous government. This time, it was only a small tip of the huge iceberg above water. For weeks now, Sirisena, the President of Sri Lanka, has been fighting a shadow war with his United National Front (UNF) government, on the countrys approach at the current UNHRC sessions. That Sirisena did not altogether have his way is clear.. The news release in question has been released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Prime Ministers Office and the Department of Information. The shoe was on the wrong foot. The veiled, if not poisonous attack, was on President Sirisena. It was indeed an embarrassing task for Foreign Secretary Ravinath Ariyasinha, a career foreign service officer staunchly loyal to Sirisena, to issue it. The press release articulated the coalition governments position. President Sirisena responded by picking on a three-member delegation to represent Sri Lanka former Ministers Mahinda Samarasinghe, Sarath Amunugama and Northern Province Governor Suren Raghavan. As revealed last week, Samarasinghe was on a private visit to Switzerland. Sirisena telephoned him to ask him to stay behind and lead the Sri Lanka delegation. However, Samarasinghe returned to Sri Lanka last Tuesday and headed straight for a meeting with Sirisena. He said he would find it difficult to be in the delegation. His predicament is understandable. He had gone to the UNHRC sessions in Palais de Nations in Geneva in the past ten years and articulated one position. He said he would find it difficult to take up another position now and urged Sirisena that he be excused. Samarasinghe, who has campaigned for the continuance of the UNF government, briefed Sirisena on the different issues. He was asked thereafter to help the delegation. The result was a meeting Sirisena chaired on Tuesday in Parliament. He also invited Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana for the meeting. This is where Sirisena demonstrated a change of heart. He was now asking the UNF Foreign Minister to articulate the governments position instead of it being done by his own three-member team. His earlier assertions that troops did not commit alleged war crimes and they were committed only by Tiger guerrillas will not resonate in the halls of the Palais de Nations. Instead, there will be a consistent line adopted by the current coalition government. A statement issued this time only by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had this to say: Consideration of the Report of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on Promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka will take place at the ongoing 40th Session of the Human Rights Council (HRC) on 20 March 2019, while the draft resolution on Sri Lanka on the same theme, which Sri Lanka has signed up to co-sponsor, is scheduled to be taken up on 21 March 2019. Following consultations held with His Excellency the President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday by the Hon. Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana among others, it was decided that the following will comprise the Sri Lanka Government Delegation from Colombo who will participate in these discussions. Hon. Tilak Marapana, Minister of Foreign Affairs (Leader of Delegation) Hon. Dr. Sarath Amunugama, Member of Parliament Hon. Dr. Suren Raghavan, Governor of the Northern Province Mr. Ravinatha Aryasinha, Foreign Secretary Mr. A. Nerin Pulle, Deputy Solicitor General They will be joined by Sri Lankas Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva A.L.A. Azeez, Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva Samantha Jayasuriya, and other relevant officials of the Sri Lanka Permanent Mission in Geneva. The fact that Sirisena invited Foreign Minister Marapana to head the delegation and make two statements one on March 20 on the High Commissioners 15 page report and another on reconciliation thereafter is again acknowledgement of the UNFs role and position in Geneva. From a hardline stance, Sirisena has softened. Needless to say, that much embarrassment to both Sri Lanka and the people would have been saved if the conference in question was held months or weeks earlier. A new resolution to be moved at the UNHRC by Britain and a core group that includes Canada and Germany has four salient points which the UNHRC expects Sri Lanka to enforce. They are: Takes note with appreciation of the comprehensive report presented by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to the Human Rights Council at its fortieth session, as requested by the Council in its resolution 34/1, and requests the Government of Sri Lanka to implement fully the measures identified by the Council in its resolution 30/1 that are outstanding; Welcomes the positive engagement of the Government of Sri Lanka with the High Commissioner and the Office of the High Commissioner since October 2015, and with relevant special procedure mandate holders, and encourages the continuation of that engagement in the promotion and protection of human rights and truth, justice, reconciliation and accountability in Sri Lanka; Requests the Office of the High Commissioner and relevant special procedure mandate holders, in consultation with and with the concurrence of the Government of Sri Lanka, to continue to strengthen their advice and technical assistance on the promotion and protection of human rights and truth, justice, reconciliation and accountability in Sri Lanka; Requests the Office of the High Commissioner to continue to assess progress on the implementation of its recommendations and other relevant processes related to reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka, and to present a written update to the Human Rights Council at its forty-third session, and a comprehensive report, followed by a discussion on the implementation of Council resolution 30/1, at its forty-sixth session. The road ahead The road ahead for both President Sirisena and even Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, with seven months to go for the presidential election remains a rough one. Sirisena has disqualified himself by blowing hot and cold with the SLPP and lost its backing to become the joint candidate. Now, the billion-dollar question is whether he would succeed in a joint alliance. That would only mean he will not be a candidate. Otherwise, he would have to contest from the SLFP and how much support he will receive has to be seen. Troubles for the SLPP de facto leader may not be altogether over after Gotabaya Rajapaksa is formally named the oppositions joint candidate. He has to cope with fissures within but his enormous public relations acumen could help him overcome them. For Premier Wickremesinghe, who has stood steadfastly to his office and party leadership, the main challenge is still ahead. He would have to win the endorsement of his party to become the presidential candidate. Already posters in favour of two different UNP politicians are surfacing in different towns espousing their cases. The time frame is yet limited and a decision would have to come within weeks and not months. This week has given a pointer to how things will pan out. 2013 English O/L B becomes A on Apex Court order View(s): The Examination Department (ED) last week, in keeping with the Supreme Court (SC) Order of January 2019, has dispatched the amended version of a Result sheet to an Ordinary Level student who sat the exams in 2013. The Results sheet was amended to read her English Language grade as A, following the student challenging her results in the SC. The student, Kavitha Sadmini Weerasinghe of Visakha Vidyalaya, who got 8 As and 1 B, had requested for a re-scrutiny of her English Language results, for which she got a B. The ED, however, delivered the same results, which had led to her seeking redress at the SC in 2015. In case No. SC/ 324/2015/STFR, the SC, in 2018, had ordered a re-evaluation of her English answer script by an independent team. The independent assessor had found that a zero mark had been given for an essay question the student had attempted. Following an assessment on the answer to that particular question, it had been determined that the answer had been done well and a zero marking was not warranted. It is learned that, she already had 74% for the subject and, with one more mark to qualify for grade A, the ED had upgraded her marks. The parents claim that the ED mistake has affected their childs education, depriving her of good results in the Advance Level examinations. The student, who is presently following a Bio-science Degree at Ruhunu University, wishes to continue her studies at Kelaniya University. Their request to the University Grants Commission (UGC) to have her transferred to Kelaniya University, to follow the same course, has been turned down. The mother, Chandrani Wijegunawardena holds that the government should consider compensating the wrong done to her daughter, by giving her a place in a university nearer home. It is only right that they make amends by granting a place closer to home, she said. - CC Singaporean chicken rice brings a taste of East to C.O.W. By Sashini Rodrigo View(s): View(s): East meets West in Cajun on Wheels (C.O.W.) new joint venture with Happi Food Singapore to introduce the internationally popular authentic Singaporean chicken rice to Colombos own vibrant food culture. Singapore-based seafood chain C.O. W. came to Sri Lanka over a year ago, and has since become well known as a casual dining spot with Louisiana-style seafood cuisine. However, Director Premil De Silva explains that their ultimate goal is to become a marketplace for food, and give variety to the local tastebuds. After tasting their chicken rice in Singapore last year, Premil was instantly a fan and contacted owner of Happi Foods Mel Goh about the possibility of bringing it to Sri Lanka. He tells us that this is the right time to bring it here, as he believes that the authentic Singaporean flavours would be interesting to local palates. Since Cajun is more Western, we wanted to introduce something Asian, and chicken rice is a staple in Singapore. The dish originated from China, specifically the Hainan region. When the Chinese migrated to Singapore, they brought their traditional family recipes with them and so the humble steamed chicken became the beloved chicken rice it is today. Mel tells us that variations have emerged over the years, like the roasted chicken with crispy skin which is more popular with the younger generations. Chicken rice is a staple meal that can be had at any time. Though the flavours and ingredients at C.O.W. will be strictly authentic, they believe that making the flavours a bit more intense will suit Sri Lankan tastebuds better, as we prefer more full-bodied flavour. The soup is the key element of the dish, and gives it that distinct flavour. Traditionally, a large stock pot contains a fragrant soup with ingredients like lemongrass, ginger and of course the chicken, and is accumulated to let the flavours get stronger. The other secret to chicken rice, as Mel reveals, is that once the chicken comes out of the stock it is immediately immersed in cold water to stop the cooking process to ensure that it remains perfectly cooked. A soy and sesame oil-based sauce is added on top of the chicken and it is served with soup, sliced cucumber and tomato, a special chilli sauce that packs a punch, and mostly importantly the rice that is flavoured with the same stock. Though you cant tell just by looking at it, the chicken rice is packed with warm umami flavours. It has a deliciously addictive quality, and before you know it you will have gone through two whole plates by yourself. The menu includes variations of the chicken rice including original Steamed, Roasted Chicken and Char Siew Chicken as well as other Singaporean delicacies like La Mien Chicken Noodle Soup, Char Siew Chicken Noodle and Char Siew Chicken Noodle Soup with wontons. The new chicken rice menu is now available at Cajun on Wheels at 4 Bullers Lane in Colombo 7, and will also be launching on Uber Eats shortly. Yudhanjaya on the Nebula award and more By Sashini Rodrigo Science fiction author Yudhanjaya Wijeratne and writing partner Ronnie Virdi were recently nominated for the 2018 Nebula Award View(s): View(s): What set out to be a goal to rebuild the Asian vision of a niche subgenre that very few people are familiar with, ended up with science fiction writer Yudhanjaya Wijeratne winning the respect of an international science fiction community. We caught up with the writer, whose story Messenger (as part of the Expanding Universe Volume 4 anthology) written in collaboration with R.R. Virdi (Ronnie), was nominated for the Nebula Award under the Novelette category. The Nebula Awards annually recognises outstanding works of science fiction across various categories. This is the first time a Sri Lankan author has been nominated and awarded since Sir Arthur C. Clarke in 1979. At the start, Yudhanjaya wrote when he was in the mood, usually early in the morning or in ten-minute bursts every hour during work. Hed also join informal groups to write in sprints. Eventually though, he realized that he functioned best when he had long periods of uninterrupted time. So he rearranged his lifestyle, choosing not to write on weekdays. On weekends hed do nothing but write. Ten hours at a time, sitting, thinking and putting those words down, with only the occasional break in between, he tells us. Although the process is hard at first, it gets easier over time. Theres a certain mental discipline that you get into, a flow state where only the writing matters. His quest right now is to make this a more frequent part of himself. Its surreal, being a Nebula Award finalist, he tells us. Perhaps the most drastic takeaway is the feeling of being plunged into the middle of so many other brilliant, enthusiastic writers, all of them professionals in the field. Yudhanjaya adds that writing science fiction both in Sri Lanka and the Indian subcontinent is a lot like walking into Mordor alone certainly a daunting task, as the whole Lord of the Rings trilogy can tell you. Ever since he started out, Yudhanjaya published a fair bit of short fiction (at least six short stories) between novels. Most of these were in anthologies that not only introduced him to renowned writers in the field, but also helped build his credibility. Since the Nebula is a professional award, writers registered with the SFWA vote on each others work. In this sense, Yudhanjaya believes the key to get on the radar of other writers is to be published alongside them. The idea for Messenger was born out of his and Ronnies shared appreciation for anime and manga. Somewhere along the line after Pacific Rim 2, which he admits was terrible, they started brainstorming ideas. The main focus of writing Messenger was what it would be like to subvert this narrative and bring the emerging superpowers of India and China into play, and what kind of life forms the monsters would actually be. Yudhanjaya tells us a lot of it boiled down to Ronnie imagining fantastic Lovecraftian monsters and weapons, and him thinking about how the aliens would be built, the kind of mental challenges the pilots would face, and what whether there was some basis in science for the weapon systems. The story is heavily rooted in a few things, one of which is Hindu mythology, specifically the figures of Kali and Vishnu. Another key influence is Neon Genesis Evangelion, a very dark Japanese anime that explores the trauma, personal relationships and the suffering of characters who pilot war machines. Theres also a touch of Chinese science fiction writer Cixin Luis Dark Forest theory, though Yudhanjaya explains that it was mainly a gateway to come up with the greater plot of what happens beyond this one story, and why the Earth is being attacked in the first place. Subverting the US-centric idea that aliens will always attack the White House was another key point, as Yudhanjaya tells us that it makes a lot more sense to aim for the centre of population. This was clearly Asia. Depending on how youd look at it, the story is about giant robots firing uranium-tipped rounds over the Bay of Bengal, or a very dark and horrifying story about depression and revenge. Fellow SFWA writers tell him the book resonated on every level. If you put a gun to my head, Id have to say its probably because we thought about every element we put in there, he recalls. As a writer, Yudhanjayas personal goals are numerous. But when it comes to gaining fame, all he wants to do with it is to help a few of his close friends, who he knows to be very creative. I want them to finish and publish their work. Right now his help space is limited to ten people. Once they have their foot in the door, Yudhanjaya will move on to the next set. He hopes that somewhere in this process, there would be a ripple effect and that the creativity among people will spread. Eventually, if the plan works out, there will be a tidal wave of future-facing Asian and South Asian narratives next to the usual suspects. But this is long process, and he works with small units. Im only on the start of the journey myself, and theres a long road ahead. The winners will be announced on May 18 at this years Nebula conference, which will be held from May 1619 in Los Angeles, California. China bank approves $ 1b loan for expressway By Damith Wicrkemasekara View(s): View(s): After nearly four years of negotiations, Sri Lanka has obtained a US$ one billion (Rs 178 billion) loan from China Exim Bank for the construction of first stage of the Central Expressway project. The delay in completing negotiations for the loan is estimated to cost an additional Rs 12 billion, which includes escalation of the cost of building materials and currency fluctuations. The approval for the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the China Exim Bank and the Sri Lankan Government came last week after the Treasurys External Resources Department officials held talks in China. Talks for the loan required for the construction of the Kadwatha-Mirigama section a stretch of 37.09 km began in 2015 soon after the United National Front Government was elected to power. Sri Lankas financial situation, political issues and adverse reports about utilisation of funds for various projects delayed the approval of the loan, ERD Director General R.M.P. Rathnayake told the Sunday Times. He said that if they did not pursue the negotiations the process would have taken a longer time including preparation of new reports required for the transactions. The expressways first phase was due to be completed by June next year, but it would now take about three more years.Road Development Authority Chairman Nihal Suriyaarachchi said the completion of the Kadawatha-Mirigama stretch would enable the linking of the southern expressway to the first phase. The extended sections of the Southern Expressway Matara to Beliatta (30 Km), Beliatta to Wetiya (26Km) and Wetiya to Andarawewa (15 Km) and Andarawewa to Mattala and Hambantota (25 Km) would be ready for opening in August this year, he said IGP orders probe on alleged police harassment View(s): The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has ordered an investigation into a motorists complaint regarding the alleged police harassment that occurred recently near the Police Hospital in Narahenpita. Accordingly, Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Colombo South Division, Roshan Dias has been directed to conduct an inquiry and take appropriate action. A police team appointed by the OIC sent to the Narahenpita Police has recorded statements from several officers who were on duty in the area during the day of the incident and are tracing CCTV footage from the area, a senior police officer said. He said they would record a statement from the complainant soon. The motorist alleges that an officer in police uniform abused him after blocking his car near the entrance to the Police Hospital on March 8 after he tooted his horn at the officers vehicle after it suddenly tried to cut in front of him and enter the hospital. He alleges that the driver told him that the Directors wife was in the vehicle and queried as to who he thought he was to toot the horn at them. He further claims that a traffic policeman had then come over and tried to book him after speaking to a woman inside the car, who had been referred to by the police driver as the Directors Wife. He said he had only been allowed to go after another traffic policeman intervened. Local contractors agitate against Chinese dominance View(s): Sri Lankas contractors have expressed concern over Chinese dominance in construction projects here, and Government efforts to preclude the local trade from participating even in basic tenders. One example they pointed to was an initiative to rehabilitate high priority roads and bridges in the Northern and Eastern Provinces, advertised in January last year by the Ministry of National Integration & Reconciliation. The roads were divided into six packages ranging from 85 km to 1,146 km. The project is under Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. These packages have all C and D roads, said Brig. Madura Wijeyewickrema, Chief Executive Officer of Major Constructors of Sri Lanka and of the National Construction Association of Sri Lanka. They are provincial roads. But they have taken 5 or 10 km here, 8 or 6 or 4 km there and packaged them. After that, pre-qualification is given for billions of rupees. Then, which Sri Lankan company can qualify? he asked. These are roads that even our village contractorsregional small or medium contractorscan make. But because of this, they cant benefit. The Sunday Times reported last year that proposals were invited through international competitive bidding with 100% confirmed financing for six packages to rehabilitate roads in the Northern and Eastern provinces. Forty-four applications were received. A Cabinet appointed negotiating committee and a project committee evaluated the proposals. Two packages (1 in the North and 1 in the East) were awarded to Sinohydro Corporation Ltd. The others went to CEC-NEM Joint Venture, KDA Weerasinghe & Co Pvt Ltd, Consulting Engineers & Contractors Pvt Ltd and Nawaloka Construction Co. Pvt Ltd. Sinohydro Corporations package in the North was later withdrawn in favour of an Indian party, on a request conveyed to the Government through the Indian High Commission in Colombo. Brig. Wijeyewickrema has publicly decried the infiltration of Chinese companies into the local trade, saying they initially crept in via International Competitive Bidding (ICB). They soon ousted the Japanese and Koreans in that area. Whilst doing ICB jobs, they saw a golden opportunity during the second innings of the Rajapaksa Government and started bringing in negotiated jobs or unsolicited proposals, he said. Then they observed that we were having fairly sizeable jobs in the private sector and got in there through projects such as Pearl Hotel, Havelock City and Odel. The Brig. also claimed that Chinese contractors had a 40% advantage over the local trade, because they did not pay taxes and their workers were only paid an allowance, with their salaries being settled abroad. If we say Rs 100, they can do it for Rs 60, he said. We are not on equal terms. These are all our jobs. Theyre eating into our pie. And we can see they are now trying to come into the housing sector. If they get into that, companies that have been building homes are finished, because they will undercut the prices. The CEO also flagged another phenomenon, where small teams of Chinese workers are going door-to-door offering services. They come on holiday as tourists, with a few tools, and they dont go back. Five or six of them come in a set and they live in Chinese dormitories or homes, he said The Sunday Times spoke to a landed proprietor in Wellawatte, who said he had hired a Chinese worker only that morning for a daily wage of Rs 2,500 for all manner of jobs around the property, including plumbing, masonry and cutting of branches. He came sharp at 7 a.m. and works till 6 p.m., he said, adding that he was very happy with the level of service. Mali needs us View(s): Corporal S. Kumarasinghe who survived the attack on the Sri Lankan blue helmets in Mali on January 25 and is recovering at the Army Hospital in Colombo, talks to Asiri Fernando Corporal S. Kumarasinghe keeps a matchbox-sized piece shrapnel in an empty jam jar in his bag. It was the shard that lodged in his right knee when an explosion in the path of the armoured personnel carrier (APC) he was sitting on threw him off and left him unconscious in a dangerous area of the troubled East African nation of Mali. His right leg was badly injured. Another piece of shrapnel punctured his right lung. I hope I will be able to walk soon, Kumarasinghe said, from his bed at the Army Hospital in Colombo where he is now being treated. Nearby, his brother-in-law examined the shard. Like Kumarasinghe, he had been in the First Field Engineers Regiment of the Sri Lanka Army before having to retire after losing a leg to an LTTE landmine. By his bedside was Kumarasinghes brother, a Sri Lanka Navy instructor, with rice-and-curry cooked by his sisters. The father-of-two from Panwilathanna, Gampola, even managed a smile when asked about his future. We have always managed, he said. Well manage somehow. The army will support me. It had been 6 a.m. on January 25, 2019. Corporal S Kumarasinghe was sitting on top of the lead APC of a convoy escorted by Sri Lankan peacekeepers near Douentza, Mopti. They were making the 585 km return journey to Gao in Mali. The Sri Lankan blue helmets were part of the 1st combat convoy company (CCC) based in Gao, and one of two convoy protection groups of the UN mission in Mali known as MINUSMA. At present, 196 Sri Lankan troops make up the 1st CCC and are supported by officers stationed in key cities. The 2nd CCC has Egyptian troops. Cpl. Kumarasinghe is 36 years old with 17 years of service with the Sri Lanka Army. As an experienced bomb disposal officer, he was tasked with scouting the route ahead for mines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) which are common in Mali. The light at dawn made it difficult to spot unnatural disturbancestell-tale signs of mines or IEDsin the soil of the route ahead. The route they were taking was high-risk. When the blast occurred, it threw him 10 to 15 feet from the APC. He briefly gained consciousness when combat medics were treating him on the way to a hospital in a helicopter. He was first treated in a UN facility, then a private one. He was repatriated to Colombo last week. He said he was sad to hear his colleagues, Captain H. W. D. Jayawickrama and Corporal Samathat Wijekumara, had been killed. They were posthumously promoted to the ranks of Major and Sergeant respectively. I didnt want to leave Mali and return, he said. I am in-charge of a EOD (explosives ordnance disposal) team and we are needed to clear the route and secure the harbours [a term used to describe the makeshift overnight camp sites the convoys use] but in my condition Im not much use there now. The people in Mali need help. They are in a very sad state and we should assist them more. The veteran sapper said the sight of senior army officers, including ones from his regiment, and his family members who had come to welcome him at Bandaranaike International Airport brought tears to his eyes. There is no place like home, he reflected. Conditions in Mali were austere. There are days the temperature rose above 40 degrees, Kumarasinghe said. We would bring water in buckets in to our billets [troop accommodation] and keep them under the air-conditioner before bathing. The Sri Lankan troops typically escort convoys made up of 70-100 vehicles. A 50-80m gap is maintained to prevent any two being damaged from one IED or mine. Sometimes, the convoy is two to four kilometers long because of the number of vehicles, he said. A few months ago, we identified an IED with explosives weighing 35 kgs and managed to catch a terrorist with the remote controller near-by. IEDs were the terrorist groups weapon of choice. The 1st CCC is equipped with 18 wheeled APCs,18 trucks (on which the UN carries 20-foot containers filled with supplies) and two armoured ambulances. On average, they run two convoys a month, one each to Mopti in the South and to Tessalit, North, near the Algerian border. Wearing nearly 14kg of body armour, weapons, ammunition and communication gear and travelling in rough terrain takes a toll on us, Kumarasinghe admitted. Even the wind is dry. The fine sand dust gets in everywhere. We have to clean all our equipment at night to make sure they are operational when needed. Each night, the vehicles needs to be serviced and damages repaired. Without paved roads, the frequent laying of mines, and sandstorms, the routes to these destinations from Gao change often. A typical convoy runs between 9-11 days, depending on vehicle breakages, change in routes and weather, he described. This leaves the peacekeepers barely 8-10 days rest a month. But rest is an expensive commodity, he says. The contingent works on servicing the vehicles which are in need of constant maintainance. When convoys make camp at nightfall, the trucks and UN civilian vehicles are grouped together, with the armoured vehicles making perimeter. A night watch is placed around the encampment. We are issued night vision goggles and we take turns keeping watch into the vast desert, Kumarasinghe said. Only the wind in the night brings us some comfort from the heat. But some days, the temperature drops below 10 degrees and its cold. While peacekeepers are entitled for 20 plus days of leave, many had opted not to take it as they had to pay for the expensive flights. Attacks by JNIM Jamaat Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), an-Qaeda affiliated group in Mali has claimed responsibility for the attack on the convoy. It is one of the many terrorist groups operating in the country. On January 10, JNIM overan a Chadian forward base, killing more than 25 people including 10 Chadian Peacekeepers. In mid February, two JNIM team launched a coordinated suicide car bomb attack on a UN position near the capital Bamako, but failed when Spanish peacekeepers prevented them entering the compound. According to the UN, 196 peacekeepers have been killed in the line of duty in Mali up-to date. Document says request for more peacekeeping troops was sent on May 3, 2018 The threat landscape in Mali has changed significantly since 2016, a senior military officer told the Sunday Times, requesting anonymity. The Sri Lankan contingent, originally numbering 200, was deemed inadequate early last year. They were due to rotate out of Mali in late December 2018. However, delays in the vetting process that clears Sri Lankan personnel for peacekeeping duties meant this didnt happen. A controversial statement by the President in Parliament blaming the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) for the deaths of the two peacekeepers drew a criticism from many politicians, including the Speaker. The HRCSL rejected the accusations. We consider the fact that HRCSL is the only national institution selected to undertake the vetting process amongst all countries that supply troops for peacekeeping missions as a triumph for Sri Lanka, a statement said. Therefore, we strongly consider that it is our duty to undertake the vetting process with integrity and professionalism. After standard operating procedures (SOPs) were agreed upon by all parties, the UN Department of Peace Operations notified them that vetting could resume (after an interruption) from December 20 2018. The Commission started vetting from that day. Therefore, we strongly disagree that the vetting process suffered setbacks due to any delays or carelessness on the part of the Council, the HRCSL statement said. The military forwarded a set of SOPs two weeks after a round-table discussion in May 2018, which also included UN officials from Geneva, the senior military source said. But the HRCSL took up to late December to get back on them. If they are short-staffed or lack resources to carry out vetting on time, they should ask for help without keeping troops in a hostile environment. When carried out by the relevant UN Department, the vetting had not taken this long, he said. The HRCSL defended the vetting process, This was the governments policy, we took up the challenge in good faith, an official said. But this process was dropped on our laps with little time and there wasnt much support from the UN. We have always encouraged taking part in peacekeeping. There is no doubt that HRCSL is a much-needed instrument and its a testament to their hard work and credibility that they were cleared to carry out the process in-house. The Sunday Times, however, has seen a request dated May 3, 2018, sent to the Ministry of Defence by Sri Lankas Permanent Mission to the UN requesting an increase in the troop numbers in Mali. The document is marked Urgent. Taking into consideration the levels of threat/risk the DPKO has increased the strength of the CCC to 243, the document states. Requested are more EOD personnel, engineers for search duties and an additional platoon for Force Protection duties. The UN further informed that the increased number of 43 contingent members are to be nominated from the already cleared list of 432 by the UN for HR via OHCHR Geneva, it states, referring to a pool 432 Sri Lankan troops already cleared by the UN for deployment. An email dated May 2, 2018, from the Planning Officer of MINUSMA at DPKO in Geneva to the Sri Lankan military reaffirms the required increase in troop levels and states, The increase of troop strength from original 200 to 243 troops for the MINUSMA CCC has to be selected out of the original 432 troops HR screened for deployment. Sunday Times understands that the HRCSL has been made aware of the urgency of the troop increase and the need to rotate out the existing contingent, who were expecting to return home in the first week of January 2019. A new contingent of 243 peacekeepers are trained and awaiting clearence since November 2018. Why the HRCSL needs nearly three months (since 24th December 2018) to re evaluate 234 troops already vetted by the UN is a question raised by the military. Further, nine Unibuffel MK II Mine Protected Vehicles which offer better protection against IEDs were refurbished as an urgent operational requirement for peacekeeping duties but are standing ready in a warehouse in Colombo, as they were to be shipped to Mali with equipment during the contingent rotation. The 1st CCC had run more than 18 long range convoys, carrying over 3000 tons of vital material for the people of Mali and to sustain the UN mission. If Sri Lanka is going to deploy her troops for peacekeeping duties in hostile areas, the boots on the ground need to be fully supported and given the rest they need. While bureaucrats in Colombo proceed with clearing those who have already been screened, our troops are carrying forth our flag in Mali shorthanded, fatigued and under ever-increasing threats. Over 7,000 devotees at Katchchathivu feast View(s): More than 7,000 Catholic devotees on both sides of the Palk Strait gathered at the Katchchathivu islet yesterday to celebrate the annul feast of St Anthony, considered by the faithful to be the guardian of fisherfolk communities on the oceans. The Feast High Mass was conducted in Tamil by by Rev Fr Joshep Lurduraj of India and in Sinhala by Rev Fr Robinson Wijesinghe. The feast was organised by the Bishops House of Jaffna and the District Secretariat, with the Navy assisting in the preparations. Sri Lankan devotees started arriving on the islet by Friday noon, and Indian devotees joined them after going through the formal registration process. The Jaffna Cooperative Society had a temporary shop selling basic products for devotees at reasonable prices. Money exchange facilities were arranged by local state banks. The feast was attended by the Jaffnas Bishop Rt Revd Dr Justin Gnanapragasam, Indias Consul General S. Balachandran, Chief of Defence Staff Ravindra Wijegunaratne, Navy Commander Piyal De Silva, Northern Naval Commander Meril Wickramasinghe, and other senior naval officers. The Navy provided meals and infrastructure facilities including electricity, drinking water and sanitary facilities. Temporary jetties were constructed for people to secure their boats conveniently, and Navy lifesaving teams and a medical team with a doctor were deployed to ensure the safety of the devotees attending the annual festival. PM to meet PSC amid controversy over national school principal appointments 33-year-old principal for Royal College? 'No plans', says Minister View(s): View(s): Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe is to meet the Public Service Commission on Monday to discuss outstanding issues, among which is the alleged discrepancies in a new marking system for appointments of national school principals. The move came after the old boys and past pupils associations of several national schools in a letter complained to the Education Ministry Secretary over the issues created by the new criteria for the selection of national schools principals. The letter explains that the new criteria and marking scheme are deeply flawed. The inclusion of IT capabilities in the grading system was patently unfair towards senior, more experienced educationists, they say. The Royal College Union claimed that there were moves under the new criteria to appoint a 33-year-old principal from a Greater Colombo area, though he did not have the required experience to serve as the principal of one of the countrys premier state schools. An RCU spokesman said that they were consulting lawyers on challenging the new marking system. The principal is reported to have performed well in the promotion examination based on the new system of marking. He says he has all the qualifications to be the principal of Royal College, Colombo, but confirms that he has not got any letter of appointment. The issue was also raised in Parliament on Friday and yesterday by Mahindananda Aluthgamage and Kanchana Wijesekara. However, Education Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam told the Sunday Times yesterday that the Ministry had no plans to make such a change to Royal College. We have no plans to appoint an unqualified individual as a principal. These are all lies spun by conspiracy theorists, he said. Mr. Kariyawasam said the PSC had earlier approved the appointments of 302 candidates who had been interviewed and selected as principals, but that the commission had now blocked those appointments. I think its unfair, but the PSC is an independent commission and can do so. However, once the appointments come through the PSC, theres nothing anyone can do as it is an independent body empowered to make appointments to national schools anywhere in the country, he said. Ceylon Teachers Union General Secretary Joseph Stalin said the Education Ministry had drafted a flawed criteria regarding recruitment of national school principals. He said a national school such as Royal College should get a principal with a Class 1 Grade from the Sri Lanka Education Administrative Service (SLEAS). However, the PSC had now annulled the process and taken steps to block the appointments, he said. Meanwhile, the present Royal College Principal, B.A Abeyrathna, said he was not retiring and that the Education Ministry had not informed him of any new principal being appointed to the school . There is some talk that a new principal is to be appointed. The old boys and the Royal Collage Union were unsettled about that, he said. Ports Ministry in move to cancel ECT bidding process; India-Japan deal under consideration By Namini Wijedasa View(s): View(s): The Ports and Shipping Ministry this week sought Cabinet permission to rescind a 2016 bidding process for the deep water East Container Terminal (ECT) after squandering months on what started out as an effort to seal a public private partnership for the facilitys management. Ports Minister Sagala Ratnayake presented the paper to the Cabinet this week, but notified ministers that he was withdrawing sections in the memorandum which also requested approval to buy container handling and gantry cranes for the ECT using Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) funds. The ECT has been ready since mid-2015, when its first phase was completed with a commercial loan of US$ 80mn from the Bank of Ceylon. This comprised a 440m quay berth, an 18-hectare container yard and other facilities. However, its berths require container handling equipmentfive ship-to-shore cranes and seven rubber tyred gantry cranesto make them functional. Eight other rubber tyred gantry cranes were to have been transferred from another terminal to raise the total to 15. It had been proposed that the cranes be purchased from SLPAs own funds, which are readily available. This would circumvent the need for a foreign loan and, thereby, foreign exchange losses that will severely impact the organisations profit and loss account. In the 2018 financial year alone, the SLPAs financial loss was more than Rs 10bn, incurred on repaying the Asian Development Bank (ADB) loan for the breakwater and on yen loans taken as far back as 1985. The profit of Rs 8bn earned that year was notwithstanding these heavy liabilities. It is learnt, however, that the administration is now considering a proposal for a Government-to-Government (G-to-G) deal floated by Japan and India for the management of the ECT. The idea is that they will fund the procurement of craneswhich must be bought from a Japanese supplierand that the SLPA will take on the liability of resettlement of the loan. A new company will then be formed to manage the ECT, in which India and Japan will hold a 49 percent stake and the SLPA 51 percent. This proposal is now reportedly under consideration in what is a continuation of a policy of dividing strategic projects in Sri Lanka among foreign players on geopoliticalnot commercialgrounds. The negotiations on a G-to-G project will result in further delay of the ECT being put to use, amidst a dramatic slowdown in the growth of Colombo port this year owing to lack of capacity. The port achieved overall growth of 15 percent in 2018 with transhipment increasing by 19 percent. But by last week, growth in the entire port of Colombo had slowed down to 3.5 percent, an insider said, blaming the lag on the failure to launch the ECT. The industry agrees there is a severe lack of capacity. The ECT has been at the centre of a political fiasco from the time it was completed. The previous Government had commissioned the equipment from M/s Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Co. Ltd (ZPMC). When the regime changed in January 2015, Arjuna Ranatunga, the new Ports Minister, cancelled the order alleging corruption (although no action was taken against the alleged perpetrators). In June 2015, the Cabinet gave the green light for the SLPA to order anew four handling and 12 gantry cranes. Eight months later, in February 2016, the policy changed again. The Government invited expressions of interest (EoIs) for the development of ECT. A joint venture with an investor (SLPA holding 51 percent of equity) was envisaged. Bids closed in July that year. Five consortia applied: Aitken Spence PLC with Port of Singapore Authority (PSA) and Shapoori Pallonji; China Merchant Holdings International (CMHI) with Evergreen, CMA CGM (shipping company) and Summit Shipping from Bangladesh; John Keells with APM Terminals, Maersk Lines and Container Corporation of India Ltd; Terminal Link with CMA CGM; and Hayleys with Westport Shipping Services LLC, Mitsui and Co, Mitsubishi and Co and NYK. Transnet (South Africa) and MST Terminals put in single bids, bringing the number of interested parties up to seven. No fewer than four committees evaluated the bids for the Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) concession and the ADB was hired as a consultant. But in December 2016, the process was abandoned after the Cabinet Committee on Economic Management (CCEM), which was headed by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, introduced fresh conditions to the process that eliminated all seven parties vying for the project. Minister Ranatunga then canvassed Cabinet approval to buy cranes so the SLPA could run the ECT. His successor, Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe, also sought permission to purchase the equipment, this time with the SLPAs own funds. But these didnt go through and a G-to-G is now being touted. The SLPA will have to buy the equipment from Japan, said a senior shipping official who did not wish to be named. It will be more expensive and involve a loan. Even if it involves a grace period, the SLPA is still paying the yen loans taken for the Jaya Container Terminal (JCT). The official said a G-to-G loan at this point would be a folly as it will severely affect the SLPAs balance sheet. Then people will clamour its a loss-making organisation and to close it down, he reflected. The same thing happened with Hambantota (port) until the management was able to transfer the loan onto the Treasury resulting in huge profits for the SLPA. If you want to kill the SLPA, G-to-G is the best prescription. The SLPA has the money. Meanwhile, Cabinet granted approval this week for the SLPA to buy three ship-to-shore cranes from ZPMG in a move to increase the capacity of the JCT deep berth. Rs. 2.3b to maintain CIABOC, but only one case involving more than Rs. 10m filed in court By Namini Wijedasa View(s): View(s): In the last decade, the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) has filed only one case in court where the alleged inducement was in excess of Rs 10 million. But the cost of maintaining the Commission over the same period has been more than Rs 2.3 billion, data obtained through a Right to Information (RTI) request shows. There have been no cases filed for the offence of corruption where the amount involved in the alleged crime was more than Rs 25 million. The single instance that exceeded Rs 10 million was when four senior Customs officials were caught in 2017 accepting Rs 125 million to release a consignment of spare parts. They have been indicted on 14 counts. The case is being heard in the Colombo High Court. Meanwhile, CIABOCs 2016 and 2017 annual performance reports show that nearly all arrests in those years were of low level officials and some civilians. There were principals and deputy principals, labour officers, grama niladaris, colony and technical officers, Pradeshiya Sabha officials, overseers, road labourers and office assistants. Included, too, were sub-inspectors, police sergeants and constables, security assistants, field, range and beat forest officers, excise officers and guards, drivers, specialist physicians, public health inspectors, health assistants, civil assistants and soldiers. There were also watchers, revenue controllers, land officers, fiscals, and inspectors attached to various institutions. But between 2014 and 2017, there were thousands of complaints lodged, according to the latest performance report. At least some of them are likely to have implicated big fish. For instance, 2015 when the Government changed there was a 69 percent increase in the number of complaints brought when compared with the previous year. They went up from 2,345 to 3,964. In 2017, the CIABOC filed 32 cases in the Magistrates Court (MC) and 42 in High Court (HC). At the end of that year, there were 111 cases still pending in the MC and 277 in the HC. The offences cover bribery, corruption, non-declaration of assets and liabilities as well as accumulation of illegal assets. Not all complaints are entertained. A preliminary assessment leads to some complaints being referred to other institutions as they do not fall under the purview of the CIABOC Act. Others are dismissed due to irrelevance to the Act, insufficient facts and lack of clarity. A large number of reports are also yet to be decided upon. News of the CIABOCs failure to nail significant cases or politically exposed persons comes amidst its launch tomorrow of the National Action Plan for Combating Bribery and Corruption at the Shangri La Hotel in Colombo. Ironically, the transfer of the land on which the hotel stands was also mired in controversy, with 10 acres of prime property being sold to the Hong Kong-based investor for just US$125mn. Investigations were initiated but there has been no further information. The chief guest at the event tomorrow will be President Maithripala Sirisena. It will also be attended by other ministers. The Commission has said around 1,250 invitees are expected. Four handbooks are also to be released: Draft Proposal on Gift Rules, Draft Proposal on Conflict of Interest Rules, Integrity Handbook for State Officials, and one on a proposed amendment to the law for areas of bribery, asset declaration, Commission Act, election campaign finance and whistleblower protection. Teacher unions demand less admin work, salary equity View(s): Providing more quality time for teaching instead of overburdening teachers with unnecessary paper work was among the demands made by unions during this weeks token strike that crippled classrooms. Ceylon Teachers Union General Secraetary Joseph Stalin told the Sunday Times that education authorities demand reports on matters not related to teaching and that creates more administrative work for teachers. This includes demands for reports on examination results, requirements to have complex databases of students attending classes, forms to be filled for various projects in schools, and forms to be filled on school fees and uniforms. He stressed that when these demands are made separately by district, zonal and provincial education offices, in addition to various ministries, the overall burden on teachers and principals is overwhelming. It is easy to say such reports should be prepared, but doing them is difficult. Decision-makers do not think about it. Trade unions said the heavy burdens caused a breakdown of teacher-student communication. The demand for less paperwork came alongside demands to address an anomaly in teachers and principals salaries which has lasted from 1997 and a demand for higher government allocations for education. The authorities failure to respond led to the Wednesdays strike in which an estimated 185,000 teachers stayed off work, according to unions. The impact of the strike was felt in various areas around the country, with varied levels of teacher and principal participation. Richmond College Principal Sampath Weragoda, along with Trincomalee Zonal Education Director J. Arulananthan and Northern Province school officials, said that the impact was minimal with few teachers taking part. However, schools in the Western and Central Provinces reported activities being delayed or interrupted. A leading girls school in Colombo reported that of the 200 teachers, only 20 turned up. There was also a drastic drop in student attendance in school. The children of some schools were asked to return home. A high participation was recorded in Nuwara Eliya. Zonal Education Director Amarasiri Piyadasa reported that about 90% of the teachers and principals in the area and in surrounding areas had taken part in the token strike. Referring to the salary anomaly, Ceylon Mercantile Industrial and General Workers Union Secretary Sanjeewa Bandara said that before 1997, education officers and teachers were paid equally. He said that since 1997, salaries of education officers had increased in comparison to the salaries of principals and teachers. He said unions are demanding the implementation of a salary scheme similar to the one that existed during the 1994-1997. Ceylon Teachers Services Union General Secretary Mahinda Jayasinghe said he had his suspicions about promises by the Education Ministry to address union demands. He questioned the decision to wait until March 13, to provide solutions when the complaint had been filed at the beginning of the month. The Ministry, responding to allegations in a statement, said as soon as the suggestions were made, they were forwarded last September to a special committee established to discuss state sector salaries. The statement said that once instructions were obtained, the teachers and principals salary anomaly would be addressed. The ministry said union protests were unwarranted and an effort to cause friction within the country and further boost their political strongholds. But several trade unions said further action would be taken if the demands were not met by April 22, the start of the next term. Australian medical team joins Zonta Club II for breast cancer workshop View(s): Ann Selle of the Botany Bay Zonta Club in Australia first became known to Sri Lankans when the Post Surgery Breast Cushion that she had developed for cancer patients was distributed to patients in Sri Lanka. Ann was back in town recently at the special invitation of Zonta Club II along with Breast Physician, Associate Professor Meaghan Brennan and Breastcare Nurse Educator and Clinical Nurse Consultant, Kim Kevin Ayres. They were here to conduct a workshop, led by Zontian Dr Sujatha Samarakoon and supported by several other prominent medical professionals Dr Ajith de Silva, Senior Consultant Surgeon of the National Hospital of Sri Lanka, Dr Kanishka de Silva, Consultant Oncology Sugeon and Dr Parthipan Ariyathurai, Oncology Surgeon, National Cancer Institute Maharagama. Some 48 nurses from all nine provinces in the country representing oncology wards of hospitals around the island and from many Breast Clinics as well attended the workshop. The nurses had shed their uniforms in favour of pretty sarees and over the course of two days took part in energetic discussions, debates, role play, quizzes, demonstrations and myth busters. Mannequin material was also introduced so that participants could explore the valuable territory of early detection of breast cancer. The young Australian Breast Physician and the Nurse Educator used ingenuity and imagination to bring their subjects alive. Several of the Sri Lankan doctors presented thought provoking material allied to their specialist areas. It was well established that early detection is the key to diagnosis and management of breast pathology. One of the objectives of the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) is to educate and make women aware of self- examination of breasts. Some of the other areas of study ranged from the complexities of diagnosis to how to handle issues like Disclosure to Patients, Self-Examination, Pre-operative Counselling, Breast Conservation Surgery, Family counselling and allied territory that was so sensitive, yet informative, vastly expanding the knowledge base for the nurses. They also received a training manual and literature on breast cancer nursing for future reference. Dr Suraj Perera, Consultant Community Physician, National Cancer Control Programme, Dr Nayana de Alwis, Consultant Community Physician, National Cancer Control Programme, Dr Kanishka de Silva, Consultant, Onco Surgeon CIM, Dr Ajith de Silva, Senior Consultant Surgeon, Dr S. Samaraweera, Director NCCP Ministry of Health, Dr S. Hewage, Senior Registrar, National Cancer Control Programme were the senior specialists involved in the initiative. Said Zontian Dr Sujatha Samarakoon: I believe the Deputy Director General Non Communicable Diseases sees how this interaction helps medical teams re-evaluate and revitalise breast cancer nursing care in an organised way for patients, across the country. In fact we are so gratified to note that a group of Doctors will get together to draw up a plan for Master Trainers to move forward. And the nurses are aiming at organising an Association of Breast Care Nurses with the full support of the NCCP. This initiative was launched in partnership with Foundation of Goodness and Mahela Jayawardena. Bitten and smitten by the Beetle bug By Kumudini Hettiarachchi An aficionado of the Volkswagen Beetle, Prof. Arjuna Medagama shares his lifelong passion with an information-packed book View(s): View(s): A doctor, a Beetle and an unlikely love-story in print! It is as Bumble Bee, the popular Transformer which takes on the persona of the yellow Volkswagen (VW) Beetle which is doing the cinematic rounds that A visual, technical guide & a lifetime of association with this very same vehicle came to my desk the other day. As I flicked through the pages, intricate details and everything anyone needs to know about the Volkswagen Beetle popped up from Prof. Arjuna Medagama, a medical specialist and Professor of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya. Gripped by an early interest in the railways and automobiles, what has caught and held his fascination has been the Volkswagen in general and the Beetle in particular taking him down the pathway of restoring many of these beloved vehicles to near-perfection. However, he is not selfish, wanting to keep his love to himself but hopes that through this volume packed tight with charming photographs in all their different colours, be it orange, red, black, white, light green, light blue or metallic silver, and intricate details, he can spread the word and get more into the embrace of the Beetle. Interestingly, the book also deals with a little bit of history, how back in 1934, Germanys dictatorial Fuhrer Adolf Hitler commissioned Master Engineer Ferdinand Porsche to develop a peoples car a family saloon for four. The civilian manufacture of the Beetle came about only after the defeat of Germany in World War II in 1945, with more than 10,000 rolling off the production line by the end of 1946. Hitting its pinnacle of popularity in the 1950s and 60s, its sales had then topped over a million a year. More modern designs of other vehicles though wreaked havoc with the VW Beetle and the last German Beetle had come off the assembly line in 1978 at Emden. The global production ground to a halt only in 2003 at Puebla Mexico, after the manufacture of more than 21 million Beetles. Prof. Medagama who before I could walk or run began a life-long romance with the Beetle from his childhood had been propelled in the direction of this beauty as his father had owned several of them. He picks as his favourite the 1956 EN4214 with a doubtful pedigree which had towel rail bumpers and late 60s turn signals lured and held transfixed by the ever-friendly smiling face, put-putting noise of the engine and the superb craftsmanship of the entire car! That was just one his family had for 18 years, but it is within different varieties of Beetles that he not only travelled but also marked the milestones in his life including learning the basics of driving. And we get an insight into the Beetles of different vintages, with each chapter dealing in-depth with the metamorphosis additions and revisions of the body exterior, interior, under bonnet and interspersed technical information. The Contents page in itself is an eye-opener becoming a tantalizing teaser nudging the reader forward with The Splits & Ovals; The Early Big Window Years; The Last Sloping Headlamp Years; The Vertical Headlamp Years; The Super Beetle and more. With each page, anyone who was under the impression that the Beetle was just a rear-engined noisy contraption providing basic transport, slowly and surely comes to the realization like Beetle aficionados that it is the sweetest thing that man created. It is not only the virtues of the Beetle that Prof. Medagama touches on but also little laughable nuggets explaining how the veteran Beetle owner is often irritated by: Is this a kane mail model? According to Prof. Medagama, this Sinhala term meaning hair on the ear lobe refers to the existence of ventilator ducts behind the rear quarter glasses, an addition in 1970. All Beetles are air-cooled and rear-engined....The engine is of a flat-four horizontally opposed type, meaning the cylinders are horizontally placed rather than placed vertically of a conventional engine. The horizontally opposed bit means that 2 of the 4 cylinders lie to the left of the crank and 2 to the right, he says going into specific details about his lover, having tenderly seen and touched its every contour, inside out. More practical advice comes from him the fan belt or the dynamo pulley belt is something that you must pay particular attention to. If the belt is loose it will slip and the fan will not turn, thereby robbing the engine of essential cooling air and overheating it..Heating is the worst enemy of the Beetle engine, he diagnoses with clinical precision. The reader also gets an introduction to the splits and ovals, of course, referring to the rear windows. Even the latest splits and ovals are now ageing cars and definitely over 60 years. The splits came to the end of production in March 1953 and ovals saw their demise in 1957, when the large rear-window Beetle was introduced for the 1958 model year. In Sri Lankan terms, the splits were three digit EL registered cars and the ovals were EL, EN and mid-range 1 SRI cars. Over the years, the lights have also gone through transition the heart lights from October 1952 to July 1955 for the non-US market, the snowflake lights for those between July 1955 and May 1961 and finally, the lamps being placed two inches higher than usual on the rear fender to be visible to traffic following behind. He picks up the turn indicators a fascinating feature of the US-only (1955) and states that European cars and cars officially imported to Sri Lanka through the agent did not have illuminating turn signals atop the fenders or in the rear light clusters up to 1960. Instead these cars had a semaphore unit built in to the door pillar, which was electrically operated through a conventional turn switch on the left-hand side of the steering column. The semaphore unit is illuminated so that it can be seen in the darktaking modern road users by surprise! When buying a Beetle, he warns that people should beware of bodged restorations, while adding that rust is an enemy, zeroing in on the nasty place most vulnerable to it as the battery tray under area, under the rear seat. For the test, Prof. Medagama suggests a quiet road with minimal traffic to hear noises you may otherwise miss on a busy road. Does it get into each gear without grinding? Is the shifting between gears smooth? Shuddering would mean a worn pressure plate or even an uneven flywheel surface. Crunching of gears means there is internal wear in the gearbox and needs a specialist repair to put it right. A certain amount of whining from the gearbox is almost universal and as long as it is not too loud and the car does not jump out of gear, any gear is generally acceptable. Does the car drive in a straight-line or does it wander over the road? Does it pull to a side? There are several plausible causes, he says, giving clear tables of Technical Specifications Engine Codes and Chassis Dating for easy reference. Tuned to every beat, whine and rumble like the heartbeat, the pulse and the pressure, Prof. Medagama certainly has been bitten and smitten by the Beetle bug. Once you take up the book, you will be too, even if only to admire this beauty through its information-packed leaves. The Volkswagen Beetle A visual, technical guide & a lifetime of association priced at Rs. 3,900 is available at all Vijitha Yapa and Sarasavi Bookshops. Great company in a perfect setting By Oshani Alwis View(s): View(s): With the sun setting against the Galle Face Green, the shimmering Indian ocean and the bustle of Colombo city as the backdrop, Cosmopolitan Sri Lanka together with CE LA VI Colombo hosted a soiree celebrating International Womens Day on March 8. The evening was paired with exciting pop up stores, an exclusive designer jewellery collection by Trunk, handmade clothing and shoes out of upcycled fabrics by House of Lonali along with perfumes by Exclusive Lines, not forgetting the fun photobooth by Photobooth.lk. This year, for International Womens Day we wanted to celebrate HER in a way that was different to the usual. Often, after a hard week, all we want is an opportunity to take a step back, have a good laugh and network with some incredible women, and this was the perfect setting to do it, says Shihaam Hassanali, Editor-In-Chief, Cosmopolitan Sri Lanka. The Cosmopolitan Reward Plus card was also launched at the event by Cosmopolitan Sri Lanka together with CE LA VI as an appreciation of Cosmos readership and fans who had been around the magazine since its inception. CE LA VIs own Disco Divas that followed featured DJs Wendell & Deep and vocalist April Schokman. Hema launches book on Mahawamsa paintings in Myanmar Temple View(s): Dr. Hema Goonatilake who over the past 20 years has researched and published on the relationship over the last 1000 years between Sri Lanka and the nations of South-east Asia has just brought out a book titled, The Mahawamsa Illustrated: Paintings from a 12th Century Myanmar Temple. The picture shows her handing over the book to the Ambassador of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, U Han Thu at a gathering organised by the President of the Sri Lanka Myanmar Friendship Association, Kumara Semage. Mr. S. Godage, the publisher of the book is also in the picture. Iconic London college hosts Anomas book launch By Kalpana Isaac Morris View(s): View(s): It was International Womens Day and there I was perched on the third floor of Central St Martins, the world-renowned art and design college of the University of Arts London for the launch of the book Anoma. Anoma Wijewardene, the artist, draws her inspiration by a process of osmosis from another island, Sri Lanka. She chose to launch her book from the place where she started as a student. She among a host of other famous names like Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney, Pierce Brosnan, Sir James Dyson and Mangala Samaraweera is an alumna of CSM. The building that now houses CSM is full of light and space a natural home for almost all creative endeavours. Grayson Perry, the Chancellor of University of Arts London said recently, Its great to see UAL shoot up the rankings to claim the No. 2 spot in the world for Art and Design. It is a testament to the incredible talent of UAL that has shaped the visionaries, renegades, and pioneers that fuel the worlds need for creativity. Its a brilliant result. The UK now leads the world with the No.1 spot held by the Royal College of Art (RCA) and No. 2 by UAL. The gathering was eclectic and festive. In conversation Anoma said, I work, because art is what I do best. It is the air that I breathe and I cant imagine a life without it. Living in a country which went through a civil war and is currently facing its aftermath has fuelled her work, and filled many a canvas. The art monograph Anoma dedicated to her parents Ray and Seela Wijewardene covers 50 years of the artists work with contributions by eminent writers from Sri Lanka, India and the UK including Prof. Emeritus Gananath Obeyesekere and Indian art critic Rosalyn DMello. Well-known writer Richard Simon, the books editor is based in Colombo. A visual masterpiece, the books design and direction is by Micha Weidmann whose clients include Tate Modern and Christies. I wanted to create a monograph that would be relevant 10 years down the line. I wanted a reader who didnt know Anoma or of her work to be able to read and understand her art, he told me. Asked what had struck him most, he said, The mixture of elements and the energy and balance of her work. It is both political and conservative and I have tried to encapsulate that in the picture sequence in the book. I have moved it along in stages to capture her life and the evolution of her art. The book contains some 250 images of her work. Prof. (Emerita) Jane Rapley OBE, former head of College at CSM and Acting Pro Vice Chancellor of UAL knew Anoma from her first year at CSM and has contributed the essay Genesis: The Formative Years. Reflecting on those years, she said, The qualities that I have noticed about Anoma are her persistence and her drive. In the 40 years I have known her she has combined these qualities with her concerns for the human condition and the world we live in. Chris Sanderson and Martin Raymond of The Future Laboratory spoke of the distinctive nature of Anomas art. A design expert, Sanderson advises HSBC, Sony, LVMH and Apple. They were very involved in both concept and final editing and introduced Anomas work to Micha Wiedmann, making the book a truly international collaboration. Another contributor Jana Manuelpillai, founder of the Noble Sage Gallery has been selling Anomas art for the last 10 years. With over 40 works sold, he said I wanted to create a dedicated space for South Asian Art. I am an art historian and I have been a patron and advisor to Anoma and other artists. The event was sponsored by Colombo 7 Gin with celebrity mixologist Ryan Chetiyawardena better known in London as Mr Lyan, himself a CSM alumni in Fine Art, creating a special subtly spiced bespoke cocktail called Anoma for the occasion. The book is available at Egg in Belgravia, London. SAARC celebrates women in arts By Minnath Azeez View(s): View(s): A celebration of the struggles, triumphs and legacies of women was the theme of the SAARC Cultural Centre celebrating this years 109th International Womens Day on March 8 at the University of Visual and Performing Arts. Special guests- film director Sumitra Peries, educationist Mercy Nalini Edussuriya, former principal of Visakha Vidyalaya, author Sumithra Rahubaddhe and representatives from the SAARC states of Maldives, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, India and Sri Lanka were present. Performances by the students from the Maldivian Educational and Cultural Centre along with the Visual and Performing Arts Universitys own students were a highlight. Sri Lankas first female filmmaker, Sumitra Peries stated, All my films had a central character who was a female and I always discovered young women to act in my films. I have given opportunities to young people especially females to play meaningful roles in them. Being a woman should not be a reason for the lack of confidence or feeling of self-worth, said Mrs. Edussuriya, a former principal of Visakha Vidyalaya,addressing the gathering. An award-winning novelist and retired Sri Lankan Administrative Service Officer Sumithra Rahubaddhe commented, In a society where the male was always portrayed as righteous and the female was always weak, I did not use my pen to fight alone. I did it to fight together. The guest speakers were also presented with tokens of appreciation by Renuka Ekanayake, the Director of the SAARC Cultural Centre, in recognition of their work for women over the years. St. Xavier in Ceylon and a 17th century painting in Lisbon By Ismeth Raheem View(s): View(s): The recent discovery of a mass grave in the Mannar district was traced to the period of Portuguese colonial administration and occupation of this part of the country. The findings in the US could only fix a date of 1500-1700. The arrival of the Portuguese in Sri Lanka in 1505 coincided with the height of the Renaissance in Europe which no doubt included Portugal as well as its capital Lisbon, a renowned centre of learning and the arts. Because of its privileged position as a major trading centre, to the East and the New World, Lisbon was open to a constant flow of new information, cultures, and finance all of which generated some of the best works of art of the Renaissance and Baroque period. But examples of paintings representing Sri Lankan scenes and themes are scarce. One of the few exceptions is the work attributed to the Baroque painter Andre Reinozo (1590-1641?). His work St. Francis Xavier Restores to Life a Native of Ceylon, an oil painting done in about 1619, depicts one of the miracles attributed to Francis Xavier who was canonized on March 12, 1622. In this scene, the Jesuit missionary is seen blessing a recently buried body of a young man from Sri Lanka who comes to life after the blessing. The painting shows with vivid realism the colourful variety of Oriental costumes- printed sarees, sarongs, turbans, sashes, headbands, jewellery and ornaments. Although Reinozo never visited Sri Lanka, much of the details of the Sri Lanka landscape, people and attire seen in the painting were familiar to Portuguese through their travel and other cultural, religious and economic activities with the maritime provinces of Sri Lanka. The design, also the materials of the garments and ornaments worn by the indigenous Sri Lankans were effectively conveyed to Portugal either through material available in the markets or images published in general literature, and art works. The images were often based on carvings, paintings by local craftsmen who were familiar with these items. Also some of the scenes were composed and or based on sketches made here. No doubt oral and written reports were given by Jesuits and Franciscan monks who working among the local congregation were all too familiar with the sites of Francis Xaviers life and regions associated with his missionary activities in Asia. The series of 20 paintings now in the Sacristy of the Church of San Rocco in Lisbon vividly illustrates these scenes from countries and towns in the Portuguese colonies in Asia including Goa, Sri Lanka, Malacca, Macao and Kobe (Japan). The Sao Roque (Church of Saint Roch), a Roman Catholic Church is believed to be the earliest Jesuit Church, in the Portuguese world. It survived the massive earthquake that levelled much of Lisbon in 1755. Preaching world peace by day, peddling lethal weapons by night By Thalif Deen View(s): View(s): UNITED NATIONS The Middle East, one of the worlds most politically-volatile and war-ravaged regions, has doubled its arms imports during the past five years, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). The sharp increase in arms purchases has been triggereddirectly or indirectlyby several conflicts and civil wars in the region, primarily the devastating four-year-old military conflict in Yemen which has resulted in the worlds worst humanitarian crisis with more than 5,000 civilians either killed or wounded in 2018. The latest figures on military sales released by SIPRI on March 11 also identifies the worlds ve largest arms exporters in 201418, namely, the United States, Russia, France, Germany and China. (With the exception of Germany, all four are permanent members of the UN Security Council, along with the UK, the sixth largest arms exporter). Together, they accounted for a hefty 75 percent of the total volume of arms exports in 2014-18. The Security Council, the most powerful UN body dealing largely with conflict-resolution, relentlessly preaches the message of peace to the world at large, while all five of its permanent members (P-5s) are peddling arms and sustaining conflicts in Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya, and fuelling the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The warring parties in all of these conflicts are using weapons either from the US, France, the UK, China or Russiaor are receiving military intelligence and air support from the five big powers. One Asian diplomat put it this way: They are retailing peace while wholesaling arms. SIPRI said arms imports by Middle Eastern states increased by 87 percent between 2009-13 and 2014-18 and accounted for 35 percent of global arms imports in 2014-18. Saudi Arabia became the worlds largest arms importer in 2014-18, with an increase of 192 percent compared with 2009-13. Arms imports by Egypt, the third largest arms importer in 2014-18, tripled (206 percent) between 2009-13 and 2014-18 while arms imports by Israel (354 percent), Qatar (225 percent) and Iraq (139 percent) also rose between 2009-13 and 2014-18, according to SIPRI. However, Syrias arms imports fell by 87 percent, despite an ongoing eight-year-old civil war in that country which is militarily supported by Russia and China. Dr. Natalie J. Goldring, a Senior Fellow and Adjunct Full Professor with the Security Studies Programme in the Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University, told IPS that SIPRI has once again documented the continuing contribution of the major suppliers to a world awash in weaponry, with the United States remaining the primary culprit. Because the supply of major conventional weapons is so concentrated, control measures involving the top six suppliers could have a significant effect on the international market. Unfortunately, these countries have allowed profits to dominate principles, said Dr Goldring, who is also a Visiting Professor of the Practice in the Duke University Washington DC programme. She said the consequences of the excessive and destabilising accumulations of weapons are particularly devastating in the Middle East. Each year, the US Department of State documents extensive Saudi human rights abuses. Yet the Trump Administration enables these same abuses with its arms transfers. The Trump Administration has also failed to hold Saudi Arabia responsible for the brutal murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. She also pointed out that the Trump Administration continues to focus on increasing profits from arms sales, rather than on the human consequences of these sales. However, there are still reasons for hope. For example, Members of Congress are moving to restrict US military activities related to the war in Yemen, and to hold Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman responsible for the murder of Jamal Khashoggi, said Dr Goldring, who also represents the Acronym Institute at the United Nations on conventional weapons and arms trade issues. Asked about the rise in arms sales to the Middle East, in the context of conflicts in Yemen, Syria and Libya, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric told reporters last week: None of these conflicts needs more arms. They need more political commitment to achieving peace for the people. (The writer can be contacted at thalifdeen@ips.org) A sizable archive of Lou Reed's personal effects, recordings, and business papers opened up today at The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts. The public is free to browse through a permanent collection belonging to the late musician, comprised of 300 linear feet of paper records, and approximately 3,600 audio files and 1,300 video recordingsand that includes rare demos and home recordings from his time with the band The Velvet Underground and beyond. Jonathan Haim, curator of music and recorded sound at NYPL, tells Gothamist that the library acquired the collection several years ago from musician Laurie Anderson, who was married to the late Reed. While the archive has plenty of Reed's personal objects, including his photographs, glasses, and high school yearbooks, the bulk of the collection is culled from Sister Ray Enterprises, his business. "I like to tell people that in essence this is, in fact, a collection of a rock and roll business," Haim says. "I think seeing how an artist who has a certain type of presence in the public actually makes that work and is thoughtful about how things will work in the future, and mindful of things that didn't work in the past...that'll be a new experience for people." Sifting through ephemera such as international tour schedules, licensing agreements, legal letters, and riders, as well as seeing the physical production of an album like New York, demystifies the practical processes that accompany musicianship beyond delivering mind-blowing performances night after night. As it stands, few archives are publicly available that illustrate the business of music-making in such minute detail. One especially fun item within Reed's office haul is a thick address book in which he took extensive notes about businesses he frequented, with the likes of Cyndi Lauper, Lenny Kravitz, and Peter Gabriel making an appearance. Audiophiles can also hear rare recordings at the library. One highlight is a 1965 reel of original songs that Reed sent to himself and kept sealed throughout his entire life, as well as Reed reading poetry and trying out acoustic demos, where he often sounded out songs in between takes, spanning from the 1960's through the 2010's. Additionally, Haim says that there's also a number of mysterious audio pieces in the collection that people haven't "quite figured out what they are yet." In the future, the library and Anderson hope to establish a dedicated listening room, replete with a formidable sound system, where people can come in and listen to this archival material sans headphones. Researchers and fans interested in seeing the archive have to have a library card to access itif you don't, perhaps you can snag one of the library's limited-edition Lou Reed library cards, featuring the photograph that Mick Rock took of him that became part of the Transformer album cover. Once you're there, you come and look through the finding aid, which describes what's in each section of the collection, to see what part of it you're interested in checking out. You then fill out a request slip, and wait until you can peruse the materials in the reading room on-site. "Certainly its fun to go in and look at objects that have the sort of tactile relationship with Lou Reed himself, to see his own personal writings and photographs and experience things as you might as a fan," Haim says. "Our hope and intent here is that we can embrace that but also does some serious study and research and understand the world in which he lived a little better." The Lou Reed Archive is located at The New York Public Library For the Performing Arts, located in the Lincoln Center, at 40 Lincoln Center Plaza (65th Street and Columbus Ave). Wikimedia Commons Tomorrow is St. Patricks Day, so of course I needed to bring you a suitable sparkler this Saturday! Heres a closer look at the intriguing clover coronet from the former imperial family of Germany. Augusta Victoria wears the coronet, ca. 1913 (Wikimedia Commons) This striking clover and trefoil diadem was designed by a royal who wasnt primarily known for his interest in the aesthetics of jewels: Kaiser Wilhelm II. He commissioned the coronet, which featured shamrock and clovers, from Koch in 1906 as a twenty-fifth wedding anniversary gift for his wife, Kaiserin Augusta Victoria. Augusta Victoria wears the tiara in a portrait by de Laszlo, ca. 1908 (Wikimedia Commons) August Victoria (who was always called Dona by her family) was photographed in the piece; she also wore it in a portrait painted by Philip de Laszlo in 1908. After the family was exiled to the Netherlands in the aftermath of World War I, they managed to keep this piece in their collection. Above, Princess Kira of Prussia wears the coronet in April 1956 in Munich during the wedding celebrations for Archduke Ferdinand Karl of Austria and Countess Helene of Toerring-Jettenbach. In the ensuing decades, however, the tiara was altered. Parts of the tiara were removed to create two additional tiaras. In its current form, the clover coronet is often featured in various museum exhibitions. Princess Birgitta, escorted by Prince Bertil, wears the Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen Coronet for her German wedding to Johann Georg of Hohenzollern in Sigmaringen, May 1961 (Keystone Pictures USA/Alamy) As an aside: theres a similar but not the same! coronet in the collection of another branch of the German royal family, the Hohenzollern-Sigmaringens. It was worn by Princess Birgitta of Sweden and Hohenzollern during her German marriage ceremony in 1961. Gerry McCann is a Professor at the University of Leicester and has supervised several postgrad students docturates. He is the father of Madeleine McCann, the girl at the heart of the most heavily reported missing person case in modern history. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Official Find Madeleine (@officialfindmadeleine) on Apr 28, 2016 at 5:17pm PDT The little girl went missing in May 2007 during a family holiday in Portugal after her parents Gerry and Kate left the three-year-old and her twin siblings alone in their holiday apartment. Over 10 years later and the whereabouts of Madeleine and the details of what happened to her that night are still not known. A new Netflix series focusing on the case was released this week, drawing ever more attention to the mystery of missing Madeleine McCann. Her parents have always denied any involvement in her disappearance and have raised millions through Madeleine's Fund, an organisation they set up to help find their daughter. The government has also funded police investigations totalling 11.75 million. With focus on the McCanns due to the new documentary series, many have been left wondering what the family is like now. In 2016 Gerry McCann was appointed as Professor of Cardiac Imaging and a National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Career Development Fellow at the University of Leicester. Since then Professor McCann has gone on to work closely with several postgraduate students. His University biography page says, Gerry particularly enjoys developing the skills of his postgraduate students and has successfully supervised 4 to completion of their doctorate with another 6 in progress. Alongside his on campus activities, he has gained an international reputation as a cardiologist, leading research into heart disease and cardiac imaging, as well as changing the guidelines on MRI scans. Last year, Professor McCann was awarded a prestigious research professorship, becoming one of only five eminent medical researchers in the country to have ever received the award. Explaining his research aims to Leicester Biomedical Research Centre Professor McCann said he intends: to identify which characteristics of patients with type 2 diabetes are most likely to be associated with early heart failure. If successful McCann and his team may be able to create treatments to reduce the risk of heart failure which would subsequently improve patients health and save the NHS money by reducing hospital admissions for heart failure. Overall, Professor McCann is highly skilled and holds leading roles in the cardiology field. He's the deputy lead for Cardiovascular Research in the NIHR East Midlands CRN, Clinical Lead for research in the Trust Cardiorespiratory clinical management group and the Translational Medicine Facility, Chairs the Trust MRI research board, co-chairs the research group of the British Society of Cardiovascular MRI and is chair of the British cardiovascular society clinical specialty group on valvular heart disease. The mystery around his daughter's disappearance continues, Madeleine turns 16-years-old in May. Unfortunately, The Content Is Not Here You have arrived at this page because the page or post you were looking for no longer exists. Please check our main navigation pages for other content: Home Page Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Update, 6:40 p.m.: Juno has withdrawn from the court motion against new regulations. In a message to their drivers, they wrote, "The recent court motion we filed was intended to allow us to work with the TLC to address concerns with the new regulations. We were unable to come to an agreement that would be fair for all drivers, riders and Juno. We've decided to withdraw and focus on bringing [drivers] more rides after the drop in demand since the new regulations." Since a minimum wage for app-based drivers went into effect last month, Juno reports in a court affidavit that rides have dropped 30 percent, resulting in a loss of earnings for drivers of 17 percent. The filing is part of an ongoing lawsuit filed by Juno and Lyft, challenging the way the Taxi and Limousine Commission calculates the minimum wage for drivers. Under the new rules, drivers must earn minimum wage of at least $17.22 an hour based on a complex calculation that factors in the miles and amount of time each customer takes, as well as the utilization rate or how many cars are just driving around looking for customers. Lyft argues the minimum wage should be based on weekly usage rates, and not per-trip data. And that basing the wage on the utilization rate favors Uber, the largest of the ride hailing companies. Uber is not a party to the lawsuit. All parties are due back in court next week. Juno argues that its data, which compares January 2019 to February 2019, is troubling because the company had been growing until then. I understand that these costs are not recoverable. Accordingly, Juno has attempted to comply with the Rule and remain a viable business going forward by passing them on through higher fares. Junos CEO Ronen Ben-David wrote. Juno also argues that its business model is unique in that it allows drivers to remain logged into the app without time restrictions, and accept trips while working for other apps. As a result, on paper, Juno has the lowest utilization rate, which is one of the ways the TLC calculates the minimum wage. MD Saisul Islam, 49, drives for Lyft and Juno and said in the last month his take home pay has gone down, while he hasnt seen a decrease in customers. Working long hours, not making this much money," he said. He calculated last year hed make $3,500 to $4,000 a month working five days a week. This year he has to drive seven days a week to earn $2,500 to $2.800. Other drivers, like Tina Raveneau, 38, whos been driving with Lyft for three years said shes felt like once she starts making a lot of money, suddenly the number of customers slows down. She blames the company. We feel like that's what they're doing, they're playing with the algorithm," she said. She admitted January and February are typically slow months. Lyft disputes these drivers assessments. "Lyft is committed to increasing driver earnings, which is why we're concerned with what we're seeing in New York City, Lyft spokesperson Campbell Matthews wrote in a statement. Riders are requesting fewer rides, which means there are fewer earning opportunities for drivers. We remain committed to trying to find a better solution." A spokesman for Uber declined to comment, but warned against extrapolating data from one week or one month. Although, he admitted Uber has not grown at the same rate since the minimum wage has gone into effect. Uber and Lyft are both preparing for IPOs. Both companies operate at losses, keeping prices artificially low, while Uber lost $1.8 billion and Lyft lost $911 million in 2018. A spokesperson for the Independent Drivers Guild disputes Lyft and Junos assessment and said members of its group report earning more than they have in years. They said if anything is hurting drivers right now, its the states $2.75 congestion pricing surcharge, which also went into effect last month on for-hire vehicles below 96th Street in Manhattan. If Lyft and Juno are losing business maybe thats because New Yorkers dont want to drive or ride with companies that sued to block the minimum wage for drivers. New Yorkers don't like it when billion dollar companies take advantage of their workers, Moira Muntz, a spokesperson for the Independent Drivers Guild, told Gothamist. The cap on new ride hail vehicles for the year could also play a factor in the changes to the industry. And not everyone is feeling the pain. The car-pool app Via reports a 15 percent increase in rides since February. "Thanks to our extremely efficient shared-ride technology, the vast majority of drivers on the Via platform already earned more than the city's new minimum rates," Daniel Ramot, CEO of Via, told Gothamist. "This is why we did not need to increase fares for riders to comply with the TLCs rule. Yellow taxi drivers have reported mixed results in the first month since the congestion pricing surcharge went into effect. Some report a 15 to 20 percent drop in revenue, while others have seen an increase in pay. Bhairavi Desai, Executive Director of the New York Taxi Workers Alliance, said her drivers report making more money since the wage rule went into effect, but said its not enough, and that they app-based companies are getting rich on the back of drivers. "They keep people poor, they made people poor, now that they have to keep them slightly above poverty, they're spending all these resources to fight it," she told Gothamist. The Taxi and Limousine Commission declined to comment, citing the ongoing lawsuit over driver pay. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Dividend Gate Capital (DGC), one of Bahrains leading private equity firms, has injected $10 million to help boost investment opportunities in the GCCs small and medium enterprise (SME) segment. The investment has been placed into four key economic areas - Hospitality, Industrial, Maintenance and Beauty. The DGC vision and mission has won many admirers from the equity sector. This growing reputation has helped in attracting a high profile board of directors and investors who are firmly behind the philosophy of the founding partners Mohamed Khonji and Khaled Al Hammadi. The company is targeting investment opportunities in the SME segment with a long-term view on international investment opportunities. Within the first six months of being fully operational DGC had invested $4 million in Bahrain SMEs, said a top official. We are confident in the future growth of SMEs in the market and committed a further $6 million in the second half of 2018 across the GCC," remarked DGC co-founder and CEO Khaled Al Hammadi. Commenting on the firms first year, Al Hammadi said: The mission of DGC is to be an essential foundation stone in the financial support ecosystem in the GCC for SMEs. Our aspirations for our stakeholders is to create competitive businesses." "We have in our first year invested to grow and nurture Bahrain and the GCCs small and medium sized companies. Our investment split has been concentrated 70 per cent into Bahrains economy through a number of SMEs, he stated. DGCs equity platform, said the top official, targets the creation of opportunities for businesses operating in key economic growth sectors such as hospitality, beauty, construction, industrial, e-commerce and financial technology. "Our distinctive approach aims to build growth in these sectors for the equity group as well as the companies that we are working with," said Al Hammadi. The plans for DGC in 2019 look equally ambitious with targets of increased funding in SMEs and guarantees of 70 per cent of the fund to be focused in Bahrain. DGC will be increasing the vital investment required by Bahrains SMES," he noted. In 2019 it will be our aim to take our stakeholders from national brands to regional and global markets, he added.-TradeArabia News Service This morning, Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams kicked off Ruth Bader Ginsburg's 86th birthday with a damn fine proposal (which we first heard about last September): renaming the Brooklyn Municipal Building on Joralemon Street after the Associate Supreme Court Justice and native New Yorker. Why this building? "It is one of the most prominent buildings in Downtown Brooklyn and one that will soon house Housing Court so given its future legal use we thought it would be appropriate," a rep for Adams told Gothamist. Following today's Rally For Ruth, Adams told us, "Justice Ginsburg is a daughter of Brooklyn... What better way to honor a monumental legal legend than with a monument of her own and what better birthday gift can we give her than a Building!" Hear hear... and can we get a statue with that? As for what happens next, a rep for Adams told us, "Our understanding is that Mayor de Blasio needs to sign off akin to the action that he took to rename the Manhattan Municipal Building after former Mayor David Dinkins." RBG knows about the proposal, and her office released a statement earlier this week saying that she "is honored that her name was put forward" as a name for the building. On Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburgs 86th birthday, I joined @BPEricAdams to renew our call for NYC to honor her trailblazing work by naming the Brooklyn Muni Building after Brooklyn-born #RBG! With @JoAnneSimonBK52, @ReginaMyer, Doris Ling Cohen & other NYC jurists! #RallyForRuth pic.twitter.com/JTSkkQSb7O NYS Senator Brian Kavanagh (@BrianKavanaghNY) March 15, 2019 Happy 86th Birthday, Justice #RBG! Change celebrated her life at #RallyForRuth today with Brooklyn Borough President .@BPEricAdams who started a 85k + petition to get the Brooklyn Municipal Building renamed in her honor. Add your voice at https://t.co/BX9Nk3tjPL pic.twitter.com/pNaA4Nd5Zh Change.org (@Change) March 15, 2019 Late last year, RBG spoke at the Museum of the City of New York, where she discussed growing up in Brooklyn (and much more). You can watch that here. Happy Birthday RBG, and many many many many many more (please). New Delhi, Mar 16 (UNI) French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian had a telephonic conversation with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Friday and informed her of the action taken by France to sanction Masood Azhar, Chief of the UN proscribed terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed. The group had claimed responsibility for the Pulwama terrorist attack on February 14. According to an official release here, the French Minister assured Ms Swaraj during tele talks that France has "always been and will always be" on India's side in the fight against terrorism. France has sanctioned Masood Azhar at the national level by freezing his assets. French Foreign Minister also informed Ms Swaraj that France has raised this issue with the European Union. On her part, External Affairs Minister thanked her French counterpart Le Drian for France's steadfast support and said that India looked forward to continuing this cooperation on the anti-terrorism front. "This action on the part of France was an expression of partnership with India and was in consonance with the global intent by responsible nations committed to fight against terror, including cross-border terrorism, anywhere in the world," the official release said. UNI DEVN SV 1323 Troops of India and Oman commence Al Nagah exercise in Oman New Delhi, Mar 13 (UNI) Aiming to enhance bilateral military cooperation, troops of India and Oman on Wednesday commenced third edition of joint military exercise Al Nagah III at Nizwa-based HQ Jabel Regiment in Oman. The Omani contingent was represented by Jabel Regiment of the RAO while the Indian side was represented by troops of Tenth Battalion The Garhwal Rifles Regiment. Lt Col Muhammed Al Saidi, Second - in- Command, Jabel Regiment welcomed the Indian soldiers, and in his inaugural remarks highlighted the common shared beliefs of freedom, equality and justice that are precious to both nations, an Indian Army spokesperson said. On Thursday night, Community Board 2 in Manhattan held the first public meeting regarding the recent sale of the historic White Horse Tavern. Opened in 1880, the White Horse is the second-oldest continuously-running bar in New York City, and over the years has been frequented by longshoremen, union workers, and literary luminaries including Jane Jacobs, James Baldwin, and Dylan Thomas (who had his last drinks there before dying). Last week, news broke that the infamous landlord Steve Croman had reportedly bought the block, including 567 Hudson Street, where the White Horse Tavern is located, for $14 million. Croman recently spent eight months in prison after pleading guilty to both mortgage and tax fraud, and will pay $8 million to former tenants that he strong-armed into giving up their rent-controlled apartments. 17 apartments, the majority of them rent-stabilized, are currently situated above the tavern. Eytan Sugarman, the operator behind the likes of the upscale Midtown steakhouse Hunt & Fish Club (of which Anthony Scaramucci is a partner), signed a 15-year lease for where the White Horse currently stands. Sugarman has said that he intends to keep the place as is, in spite of concerns from the community about how it might change under his domain. His attorney, Bruno V. Gioffre, Jr., would neither confirm nor deny to Gothamist that Croman is the landlord in question, but stated that Scaramucci had "no connection" to the takeover of the White Horse. White Horse Tavern, 1975. (Photo by Edmund Vincent Gillon, courtesy of the Museum of the City of New York; 2013.3.1.613) The State Liquor Authority Licensing Committee of Community Board No. 2, which oversees the Greenwich Village and SoHo, among other neighborhoods, helmed the meeting last night. SLA Committee Co-Chair Robert Ely called business owners and tenants looking to obtain or transfer their liquor licenses to the stand, as community members voiced both support and concern about how their respective presences meant for the neighborhood. Noted West Village resident Sarah Jessica Parker was among the onlookers. "I have every intention of keeping this amazing institution the way it is, I have no intention of making any dramatic changes," Sugarman said on the stand. "I want to fix what needs to be fixed, I essentially took this to maintain the integrity, to preserve the White Horse Tavern," mentioning several times that the bar and restaurant needed "a little love." Ely pressed him on said changes, citing concerns from the community about how extensive those might be. Sugarman said he would fix the likes of leaky pipes and faulty air-conditioning, and cracked wise that he might move to make "a little bit of a better burger." Beyond that, he said, the interior's decor and paintings will stay as is, adding, "At the risk of sounding immodest, Im the one that you want here." The Greenwich Village Society for Historic Preservation recently submitted a request to landmark the interior of the White Horse Tavern (the exterior has been a protected landmark since 1969). When asked, Sugarman said he didn't have a position on the interior landmarking request yet. "I dont necessarily think that a neon sign that says Coors Light that was put up 15 years ago is a landmark that needs to remain," he said. "I think a painting of Dylan Thomas thats been there for 50 years does need to remain," stating that he wouldn't "make a blanket judgment that I'm going to keep every single thing the way that it is." He was vague about whether the tavern's menu of no-nonsense pub grub would remain the same. "I intend to have a similar menu," he said. "The price points could very well change." (Scott Lynch / Gothamist) Local residents at the meeting questioned the building's new ownership, with one man standing up in the back and exclaiming: "Where's Steve Croman?" Others cited the lack of outreach the new proprietors had done within the community, and how the tavern may shift from the lowkey hangout and community gathering spot it's been for two centuries. "Thats what the White Horse has been to me and a lot of other people I know," said neighborhood resident Kat Georges, while on the stand. "Thats why Dylan Thomas went there: He didnt go there because his picture was going to be on the wall 20 years from now. He went there because it was a place where you could have cheap or reasonably priced drinks and sit there for a while, and drink 18 shots and kill yourself outside the front door." Georges then read a line from Thomas's poem "On No Work of Words:" "To surrender now is to pay the expensive ogre twice." Later, Sugarman took the stand again, saying he would do his best to keep the White Horse as close to how it currently is, but that paying rent meant it also had to be "run like a business" and that some differences were inevitable with the "changing of the guard." The SLA licensing committee will now vote and make a recommendation (or not) before the full Community Board next Thursday. If they come to a consensus, the paperwork will then be sent to the State Liquor Authority. Outside the church, friends and White Horse regulars Peter Carlaftes and Henry Laura worried about their friends who bartend and wait tables at the White Horse, as well as the tenants who live in the building. "I'm scared to death for them," Laura said. "The infrastructure, yeah, Im glad that theyre keeping it. But its the ambiance, and what happens when youre inside, and thats whats going to change." Carlaftes, who has been going to the White Horse since the 1970s, added: "Maybe we can come in and get senior discounts." Georges told Gothamist after the meeting that she wasn't convinced that Sugarman would retain the community spirit of the place, and that her sense was that it could likely become a "go-to destination spot gastropub" with staggering prices. "The burgers, he brought that up as a funny thing," she said. "But I dont have any confidence that Im going to ever be able to go there ever again." 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. When Chinas Change 4 probe landed on the lunar surface in January this year, it was the first robotic probe in the world to land on the dark side of the Moon. The rover recently sent out interesting data that points to the possibility that the nights on the dark side of the Moon are actually colder than the other side. Colder nights To be clear, the term dark side of the Moon does not mean that a part of the Moon is forever in complete darkness. In fact, it does receive sunlight just like the other side. The reason it is so named is that the dark side is the region that is not visible from our planet. Earths Moon is tidally locked to the planet, meaning that the same side of the Moon faces us at all times. But the Moon is still spinning in order to constantly point one face at us, so it experiences days and nights from the varying sunlight. These periods are about two Earth-weeks long, according to Live Science. Americas Apollo missions had earlier revealed that temperatures on the lunar surface can rise up to 260F (127C) during the day and drastically fall to minus 280F (minus 173C) at night. However, Change 4s data recorded night temperatures of minus 310F (minus 190C), indicating that the dark side of the moon is actually colder at night. According to the measurements of Change-4, the temperature of the shallow layer of the lunar soil on the far side of the moon is lower than the data obtained by the U.S. Apollo mission on the near side of the moon Thats probably due to the difference in lunar soil composition between the two sides of the moon, Zhang He, executive director of the Change-4 probe project, said in a statement (International Business Times). This essentially means that the lunar dirt on the dark side is retaining less heat overnight. Since Change 4 is essentially the first probe in this region, more data will be required to confirm the difference in temperature between the two sides of the Moon. Meanwhile, NASA and the Chinese space agency are reportedly sharing scientific data gathered by their lunar expeditions even though both nations are going through a stressed relationship right now. The agencies are trying to keep politics away from their common goal of furthering science. Change 5 China will be sending its Change 5 lunar mission in December this year. It will be the first sample return mission of the Chinese space agency. The aim is to bring back a minimum of two kilograms of lunar soil to Earth. After finishing its work on the Moon, the ascender will rise from the lunar surface for rendezvous and docking with the orbiter flying around the Moon. Then the returner will fly back to Earth via the Earth-moon transfer orbit, reenter the atmosphere and land at the Siziwang Banner (County) of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, according to the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The last time any country sent out a sample return mission was the Soviet Union with its Luna 24 program that brought back 170.1 grams of lunar samples to Earth in 1976. The Change 5 lander will carry a mineral spectrometer, soil composition analytical instrument, panoramic camera, and ground-penetrating radar. Follow us on Twitter or subscribe to our weekly email Advertisement By WestKyStar & WKCTC Staff Mar. 16, 2019 | PADUCAH By WestKyStar & WKCTC Staff Mar. 16, 2019 | 08:08 AM | PADUCAH Heath Middle School eighth grader Winter Johnson has enjoyed drawing for as long as she can remember but having drawings exhibited at West Kentucky Community and Technical College's Paducah School of Art and Design was something she loved. "This gives more people a chance to see (my work)," Johnson said, "and for me to see other people's works too." Johnson, 14, the daughter of Jimmy and Marla Johnson of Paducah, had four pieces in an exhibition of artworks by students of McCracken County 21st Century Community Centers. More than 150 McCracken County students contributed nearly 200 works to the exhibition in PSAD's Alcove Galleries. Participating students were from Heath Middle, Hendron-Lone Oak Elementary, Lone Oak Middle, Reidland Elementary, Reidland Intermediate, Reidland Middle, and McCracken County High schools. Alan Strong, site coordinator of the 21st Century Grant program at Lone Middle School, said students from his school had about 30 different art pieces in the exhibition. "I think it's really cool. It shows the solidarity of all the schools together, and just being able to demonstrate what McCracken County can do together," Strong said. The exhibition opened with a reception event March 12 and will remain on display through April 18. Admission is free. The 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) grant is a competitive grant that provides federal funding to establish community learning centers that provide academic, artistic and cultural enrichment opportunities for students and their families. These opportunities must occur during non-school hours or periods when school is not in session to help students to meet state and local standards in core academic subjects. Centers must also offer students a broad array of activities that can complement their regular academic programs, to offer literacy and other educational services to their families. Cheryl Moore, district coordinator of the 21st Century Grant program, said activities like art are fun but also provide what she called, "hands-on, invisible learning." "We really try to be sure that we can give students different opportunities that they may or may not get in the school day. We link everything we do to the school day but we're the fun arm," Moore said. "We support them academically with homework, help and tutoring, but we're also the fun part. I call it invisible learning, where they have fun and don't know that they're still learning." Moore said the biggest joy of being a part of an exhibition like PSAD's 21st Century Exhibition was in seeing the pride in the student participants' faces. "I've been running behind some of (the students). Just to see the look on their faces, when they go and they find their artwork on the wall; that it's displayed with their name on it and their grade. And they are bringing their parent, their grandparents, their loved ones to see it," Moore said. "That look on their faces is what it's all about; That look that's saying 'look what I did'. PSAD's 2D and Graphic Design building is located at 905 Harrison Street in LowerTown Paducah. Gallery hours are 9 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday, and 10 am to 4 pm on Saturdays. Email To : Multiple e-mail addresses must be separated with a comma character(maximum 200 characters) Email To is required. Your Full Name: (optional) Your Email Address: Your Email Address is required. From monitoring cameras to fingerprint attendance systems, universities and colleges continue to adapt in their battle to tackle students' truancy. A university in Zhejiang Province is the latest to try to improve attendance rates using technology. "You are absent from class today." Truants at Hangzhou Dianzi University now receive voice calls with the above message. The caller is not a human however, but an AI-powered app. Students' truancy will also be sent to their instructor and put on record the moment the call is made. Developed by Hangzhou Dianzi University, the AI system can help teachers call the class roll and make calls to urge truant students to attend class. It can ask students for reasons for their absence and apply punishments where appropriate. The app has proved effective, with attendance rates higher than before. "We don't dare skip classes anymore," one of the students at the university said. Teachers can open the app, which sends randomly generated codes to students, at any time in class. Students then need to input a verification code to check in on the app, according to Hu Haibin, an official at the university's students' affairs office. "This process takes 36 seconds at most, and the teacher can set shorter time limits manually," Hu said. When a student does not complete the check-in within the set time limit, the app will automatically call the student. The phone call will be simultaneously converted to text and sent to the student's instructor with information on the student's truancy. "Even if students try to escape the call by changing their phone number, their absence will still be kept on record," said Hu. The system has grabbed netizens' attention because of its AI-powered calls, but according to Hu, it is just a data collector. Based on this data instructors can analyze why students are unwilling to attend class, and then tackle accordingly the causes of truancy. "This is the most important reason for us to develop and use the AI system," said Hu. (Source: China Daily) Students watch intelligent robots developed by a Beijing company for use in education, elderly care, household chores and security purposes. [Photo / Provided to China Daily] China will push for Artificial Intelligence (AI) courses to be offered at primary and secondary schools and popularize programming education in steps, according to a directive issued by the Ministry of Education. This is among major actions demanded by educational authorities across the country for the cultivation and improvement of information literacy of teachers and students. Information literacy is the ability to discover and use various types of information and is an essential skill for navigating the information age. Big data, virtual reality and AI technologies should be more deeply applied to education and teaching, says the directive. Programs will be launched to train primary and secondary school teachers on the application of information technology, and advanced courses on big data will be also offered to teachers across the country, it adds. The directive also calls for more investment into the application of information technology in education. (Source: Xinhua) The second session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) holds its closing meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 15, 2019. [Xinhua/Liu Bin] The second session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) held its closing meeting Friday morning. Xi Jinping and other Chinese leaders attended the closing meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Legislators adopted China's first unified foreign investment law, demonstrating the country's resolve to pursue a new stage of high-level opening up. They also approved resolutions on the government work report, and the work reports of the NPC Standing Committee, the Supreme People's Court and the Supreme People's Procuratorate. In addition, the legislators passed resolutions on the reports of the national economic and social development plans as well as the central and local budgets, and approved the resignation of NPC Standing Committee member Zhang Rongshun. (Source: Xinhua) "The Peony Pavilion" is a masterpiece by Chinese playwright Tang Xianzu (1550-1616) from the Ming Dynasty. [Photo by He Maofeng/Asianewsphoto] "The Peony Pavilion" is a masterpiece by Chinese playwright Tang Xianzu (1550-1616) from the Ming Dynasty. A replica of the pavilion, based on pictures recorded in ancient books of the play, will appear in Shakespeare's hometown. Four hundred years ago, when William Shakespeare was writing his sonnets with a quill, Tang Xianzu was recording verses with a brush nearly 6,000 km away. China and Britain have hosted a series of events to commemorate Shakespeare and Tang. Among the cultural exchange contracts signed, a replica of British playwright William Shakespeare's family house will be built in Tang's hometown in Fuzhou, east China's Jiangxi province, while Fuzhou will help build the replica of the Peony Pavilion, the historical site where Tang's story took place, in Shakespeare's hometown. Zeng Gonglin, deputy director of Fuzhou's construction bureau, said the pavilion will be unveiled in April in Stratford during commemorative activities for the 455th anniversary of Shakespeare's birth. "The pavilion, with an area of 10 square meters and 6 meters high, is built in the same design as it is depicted in pictures in ancient Chinese books," said Zeng. He said the stone foundation and the wooden structure of the pavilion would be built in China, and then sent to the British site early this month. Shen Bin, an on-site project manager, said that they will finish the installation of the pavilion in Stratford by the end of this month. In the cultural exchange promotion, Fuzhou is building an art town with the name "Sanweng," which literally means "Three Seniors" in memory of Tang, Shakespeare and Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes. The three literary giants from east and west were all active in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, and all died in the year 1616. (Source: China Daily) Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a message of condolence to New Zealand Governor-General Patsy Reddy on Friday over the deadly shooting incidents earlier Friday in New Zealand's Christchurch City. In his message, Xi said he was shocked to learn about the serious shooting incidents which have caused heavy casualties. On behalf of the Chinese government, the Chinese people and in his own name, Xi expressed deep sympathy with and sincere condolences to the New Zealand government and the New Zealand people, while expressing grief for the victims and wishing the injured an early recovery. (Source: Xinhua) Also on Friday, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang sent a message of condolence to New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, expressing grief for the victims while extending sincere sympathies to the injured and the bereaved families. Fu Hanlu (L) gives guidance to a student from Panama on embroidering in Guangfu Town in Wuzhong District of Suzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province, on March 14, 2019. Fu Xianghong and her daughter Fu Hanlu were from a long line of embroidery. In 2015 Fu Xianghong was appointed as a representative master of Suzhou embroidery, which was listed as one of Suzhou's intangible heritages. Her works of unique style combining practicality and artistry were ever presented during Beijing Fashion Week and Paris Fashion Week. Her daughter Fu Hanlu also showed great interest in embroidery and at present she taught related class in Suzhou Centennial College. Their common wish was inheriting Suzhou embroidery skills and spreading Chinese traditional culture. [Xinhua/Ji Chunpeng] Mei Hua (middle) watches students knitting in a traditional way with a wooden frame at Yimin Primary School in the Ewenki autonomous banner, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. [Provided to China Daily] After teaching for 30 years at different villages in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Mei Hua, a deputy to the 13th National People's Congress, hopes she can help more ethnic minority students enjoy better education. Mei's parents are both herdsmen in the Hulunbuir grasslands, and she knew from an early age that education is one of the most effective ways to change the fate of children living in the grasslands and give them the opportunity to see the outside world. She became a teacher when she was 19, and has since worked at different schools in remote villages. In 2009, she was assigned to be the principal of Yimin Primary School in the Ewenki autonomous banner in Hulunbuir amid a shortage of teachers due to poor conditions. "When I arrived at the school, I almost started to cry," she said. "There were only eight students with one outdated computer that could barely function. "The teachers lived together in a small rented room, and the heating in their dormitory and the classroom came from coal boilers. "However, I cannot fail the trust of others and had to do something to make things better." Mei started to improve facilities at the school by changing the heating system to gas heating, getting internet access, buying necessary equipment, renovating the school buildings and hiring more teachers. With conditions at the school having improved significantly, the number of students has gradually increased. The school now has more than 120 students, and with increased government investment it also has an affiliated kindergarten, newly built playground and special classrooms for singing and drawing. However, like many other schools in rural areas, the quality of teachers at Mei's school still lags behind that in urban areas. "There are few young teachers at our school, and many teachers have not been trained properly and they do not teach the subject they have majored in," she said. Mei hopes that more young people and college graduates will come to her school to teach. According to the Ministry of Education, the country now has 2.9 million rural teachers, 1.7 million of them under the age of 40. In the past 13 years, 335,000 college graduates have been hired to work at rural schools in central and western China. From 2013 to 2018, central and local governments invested 542.6 billion yuan ($81 billion) to build and renovate school buildings and buy teaching resources. To bridge the gap between urban and rural education resources, different levels of government purchased 5.1 million computers. The ministry also said that more than 90 percent of primary and secondary schools in China now have access to the internet. As an NPC deputy, Mei visited nearby schools and talked with local teachers, principals and education officials on ways to improve rural education. "The most sustainable way to keep rural students out of poverty is to give them a good education, and I am willing to offer my help," she said. (Source: China Daily) Children decipher riddles written on lanterns in Fenghuang kindergarten in Anhui province on Feb 18. [Li Xin/for China Daily] More support is needed to build nurseries and day care centers to ease burdens on parents and aid implementation of the universal second-child policy, national legislators and political advisers urged during the two annual meetings in China. They made the appeal amid public concern over consecutive drops in the number of births in China over the past two years, caused in part by a general unwillingness of young couples to give birth to a second child. "In addition to financial concerns, difficulty in finding caretakers for children is an important reason why many young couples do not want to have children," Huang Yuguang, a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, China's top political advisory body, said during the CPPCC's annual session, which concluded on Wednesday in Beijing. In China, about 70 percent of working age women are employed, and many women hesitate to have a second child due to concerns that caring for another child will affect their career, Huang said. "Even if young parents prepare to spend money to find good day care facilities, there is a shortage of such facilities, even in big cities," said Huang, who is head of Peking Union Medical College Hospital's anesthesia department. "I suggest that the government provides special support, including financial assistance, to institutions and companies where more women of childbearing age work to help them create their own day care facilities," he said. "Such a measure will free employees from worries over how to look after their children during working hours. Meanwhile, babies can have access to breast-feeding if they are nearby their mothers." China adopted a universal second-child policy in 2016, allowing all couples to have two children, to counter rapid aging of the population and a dwindling workforce. That year, 17.86 million babies were born, the largest number since 2000. But the number fell by more than half a million in 2017, and by another 2 million to 15.23 million last year, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. Population experts have warned that the decreasing number of births will continue over a long period due to a lower number of women of childbearing age and a reluctance to have more children. Gao Xiaomei, another member of the CPPCC National Committee, said public services for infants are lacking due to an insufficient government budget and a dearth of standards and regulations for such services. "We can learn from experiences abroad and accelerate research to build an agency specially charged with infant services," she said. "The government should intensify its role in providing support and guidance in establishing a day care service system, and more measures should be rolled out to encourage individuals, enterprises and communities to develop and provide such services." Qian Fangli, a deputy to the National People's Congress, the top legislature, suggested during the ongoing session of the body in Beijing that authorities include day care services for children under 3 years of age among public services, and provide more financial support for such services so that more facilities can be built. Meanwhile, authorities can take measures to encourage private investment in the sector, and encourage employers and communities to establish their own nurseries to serve employees and residents. "Developing such services can help couples ease worries over having children, and it can also contribute to economic growth," said Qian, also chief for e-commerce and information at the Ministry of Commerce. (Source: China Daily) Launch of new degree apprenticeships to help meet demand for digital skills This article is old - Published: Saturday, Mar 16th, 2019 A series of new degree apprenticeship programmes aimed at meeting the Welsh demand for digital skills are set to launch this spring. The programmes will be delivered on campus in both North and South Wales after Wrexham Glyndwr University and NPTC Group of Colleges were awarded funding under the new degree apprenticeship pilot programme for Wales. Universities and other degree awarding institutions were asked to design a new suite of digital programmes reflecting the skills needs of Wales, to enable Welsh organisations to up-skill their existing employees or recruit new talent in areas such as Software Engineering, Cyber Security and Data Science for the new digital degree apprenticeships framework. The digital sector is one of the North Wales Economic Ambition Boards key growth sectors and the fastest growing sector in North Wales. The degree apprenticeship programmes acknowledge the drive and need for enhanced technological and digital knowledge within the workforce of North Wales and represent significant investment for the whole of Wales. Working together, Wrexham Glyndwr University and NPTC Group of Colleges developed two new degree programmes for Applied Software Engineering and Applied Cyber Security Management Pathway, starting in April 2019. Employer demand has been high for these programmes, ranging from global multi-national companies to local small businesses. Wrexham Glyndwr University Pro Vice-Chancellor, Dr Aulay Mackenzie said: This programme reflects the needs of industry in harnessing the power of digital technology to continue to grow the Welsh economy. Wrexham Glyndwr University is delighted to be one of the first universities in Wales, working in partnership with NPTC Group of Colleges, to be awarded this funding and look forward to the programmes starting in April. This represents a significant investment in skills development in the region and a great opportunity for companies to be able to develop the digital capabilities of their workforce up to degree level. Richard Tong, Assistant Principal: Higher Education for NPTC Group of Colleges said: NPTC Group of Colleges are delighted to be able to work with Wrexham Glyndwr University to provide opportunities to local companies in South Wales to further upskill their workforce via government-funded software engineering and cyber security degree apprenticeships. Business Development Manager and lead for Apprenticeships at Wrexham Glyndwr University, Christina Blakey added: Weve had a significant amount of demand for these limited places but are always keen to hear from other Welsh employers wishing to engage in degree apprenticeships with us or NPTC Group of Colleges. We expect the demand for these programmes to continue and are already planning to request additional funding for September 2019. Any organisation interested in learning more about these programmes contact Enterprise@glyndwr.ac.uk or pathwaystraining@nptcgroup.ac.uk. (Click for large) Wrexham JCB employee celebrated for over 40 years of service This article is old - Published: Saturday, Mar 16th, 2019 An employee at Wrexhams JCB factory has been honoured after more than 40 years service with the company. When world-renowned digger maker JCB opened a new factory in Wrexham back in 1978, young machinist Nigel Crump was one of the first to clock on. Now, tributes have been paid to the father-of-four who has notched up 40 years service with JCB Transmissions based on Wrexham Industrial Estate. He was honoured at a special long service ceremony held at JCBs World Headquarters, in Staffordshire. Nigel, 60, said: My JCB history started in the 1960s when my cousin was the owner/driver of a JCB. In my eyes the classic JCB 3C backhoe was king of the building sites; its industrial ruggedness put it in a class above the competition of the day and I became a lifelong fan. Fast forward to the end of my teenage years, when I finished an engineering apprenticeship at Rubery, Owen and Companys Whitegate Factory in Wrexham, the timing couldnt have been better. I jumped at the chance of a machinist job at the new JCB Transmissions factory. In my book this was a prestige company making a top quality machine. I was going to work on brand new lathes and travel to Italy and Germany for training an exciting prospect for a 20-year-old back then. Ive been content to stay at JCB because it is a progressive company and we have 11 UK factories now. My various machining skills have been put to great use over the years and Ive had real job satisfaction. Nigel was one of 66 JCB employees honoured at the special ceremony for individuals marking their 20, 40 and 45 years service milestones. Between them the group has amassed more than 1,500 years of combined service with the company. Each were given a company gift ranging from city breaks to designer watches and bracelets in recognition of their loyalty and commitment to JCBs success. JCB Chief Operating Officer, Mark Turner, said: We are proud to honour an amazing group of people who have given a total of 1,575 years of combined service to the company. JCB is a family business and the commitment of our people is a vital part of our continued growth and success. (Click for large) Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-15 22:34:37|Editor: yan Video Player Close KIEV, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Civilians affected by the conflict in eastern Ukraine have received humanitarian assistance from the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF), authorities said Friday. Eight trucks delivered some 108 tons of relief supplies from UNICEF to residents of non-government-controlled areas in Donetsk region, Ukraine state border guard service said in a statement. The aid includes furniture, construction materials and medicine, it said. According to UN estimates, 3.5 million people affected by the conflict in eastern Ukraine need humanitarian assistance and protection this year. The UN has decided to allocate 162 million U.S. dollars to help civilians in eastern Ukraine this year. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-15 22:39:38|Editor: yan Video Player Close MOSCOW, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Russia has deployed another regimental set of the S-400 Triumph air defense missiles in its westernmost exclave of Kaliningrad, the Russian Defense Ministry said Friday. The new set of missiles has been supplied to the Russian Baltic Fleet from the Kapustin Yar test site in the southern Astrakhan Region after successful test launches, a ministry statement said. The Baltic Fleet is headquartered in Kaliningrad sandwiched between Poland and Lithuania, and the strategically important exclave is a hot spot for the confrontation of Russia and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. The S-400 system, designed and manufactured by Russia's Almaz-Antey arms manufacturer, is considered the most advanced of its kind in Russia, capable of destroying targets at a distance of up to 400 km and a height of about 30 km. Russia started mass production of the system in 2007 and deployed the first batch of missiles in the Moscow Region in the same year. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-15 23:24:58|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban speaks on the occasion of Hungary's National Day in Budapest, Hungary, March 15, 2019. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban spoke about the importance of freedom for European countries and peoples, and of the long and deep friendship between his country and Poland, in his speech delivered on the occasion of Hungary's National Day here on Friday. (Xinhua/Attila Volgyi) BUDAPEST, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban spoke about the importance of freedom for European countries and peoples, and of the long and deep friendship between his country and Poland, in his speech delivered on the occasion of Hungary's National Day here on Friday. Orban put the protection of Christian culture as a necessary condition for freedom in the focus of his speech. "Without Christian culture there is no Hungarian freedom, and there is no free Hungary either. That is why we want the peoples of Europe to understand that in a liberal European empire we all lose our freedom," he said. He hinted at the upcoming European Parliament elections in May, where he expects the conservatives and the anti-migration parties to win a new majority against the liberals. "The European man can only be happy if he can decide his own fate and that of his nation," he said, rejecting the idea of a "united states of Europe" in favor of a "Europe of nations." He said that the concept of freedom has its roots in Christianity, because before God all men and all nations are equal. Praising the economic performance of the countries of central Europe, he said that they are preparing "an overwhelming new central European renaissance." "The Poles are here with us today as they were with us in 1848-1849 and all through the 20th century. Without the Poles, Hungary would not be free today, nor could Europe have been reunited," he said. The National Day celebrations started in the morning with the traditional hoisting of the national flag in front of Parliament. From there, hussars marched to the National Museum, where Prime Minister Orban delivered his annual address. Since Poland and Hungary have fought for freedom together several times, a special guest at this year's celebrations was Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, who also addressed the crowds. Morawiecki underlined that the Hungarian and Polish peoples have been friends for a thousand years, and cited examples from the two nations' history. He said that, just like in 1848, "Hungarians and Poles are once again on the same side, fighting for equality and a better Europe." March 15 is a National Day in Hungary marking the anniversary of the 1848 revolution and freedom fight against the Austrian Empire. Throughout this weekend, a series of events across Hungary will mark the National Day. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 01:15:25|Editor: yan Video Player Close ZAGREB, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Croatia is preparing two legislative proposals that will allow British citizens to have all rights in Croatia after Brexit as in the past, and this is also expected from Britain when it comes to Croatian citizens, local media reported on Friday. A session of the Croatian government adopted a conclusion saying that the information on Croatia's preparations for the no-deal Brexit was received. A total of 659 British citizens are staying and working in Croatia. They are enjoying all the rights given to European Union citizens. The amendment of the two laws will allow the British citizens to enjoy the same rights after Brexit. Croatia also expects that Britain will allow around 5,000 Croatian citizens to continue staying and working in the departing EU member. Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic said that Croatia is preparing for all scenarios of Brexit. The government vowed all efforts to minimize the consequences for Croatian citizens if no-deal Brexit happens, according to local media reports. Croatian citizens living in Britain have been informed by the government of all most important issues regarding their stay and information, local media said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 02:05:33|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close RABAT, March 15 (Xinhua) -- The Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO) strongly condemned the terrorist shootings at two mosques during the Friday prayer in New Zealand's city of Christchurch. "This heinous terrorist attack is a crime against humanity which reflects racist and extremist groups' bitter hatred against Islam," ISESCO said, calling for "international condemnation of such act and punishment of its perpetrators." The Islamic organization also appealed for solidarity with Muslims in New Zealand and expressed its confidence that New Zealand authorities will take the necessary measures to punish terrorists and protect mosques and Muslims on its territory. The shootings on Friday claimed the lives of 49 people and injured dozens of others. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 02:10:36|Editor: yan Video Player Close BEIJING, March 15 (Xinhua) -- The People's Liberation Army (PLA) and armed police force have been urged to study the spirit of the second session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) and the spirit of the remarks made by President Xi Jinping during the session. This is an important political task for the whole military, said a circular released Friday by the General Office of the Central Military Commission. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, stressed fulfilling the set targets and tasks of national defense and military development as scheduled, in the remarks he made while attending a plenary meeting of the PLA and armed police force delegation. The circular called on the PLA and armed police force to have a clear understanding of new circumstances, new tasks and new demands in strengthening national defense and the armed forces, and intensify the sense of mission to achieve new progress in making the military strong. The circular stressed studying the spirit of Xi's remarks, and urged the PLA and armed police force to clearly understand the importance and urgency of implementing the 13th Five-Year Plan for military development, and go all out to carry out the plan so as to ensure that the set targets and tasks are fulfilled as scheduled. The PLA and armed police force should have a deep understanding of the severe situation facing China's security and development, improve military preparedness, actively support local economic and social development as well as ecological conservation and resolutely safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, the circular stressed. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 02:25:38|Editor: yan Video Player Close PHNOM PENH, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia on Friday denounced the fatal shootings in New Zealand mosques, that left at least 49 people dead, said a foreign ministry's statement. Cambodia was shocked and saddened by the fatal shootings, the statement said. "We express our most profound sympathy and condolences to the victims and their beloved ones," it said. "We stand in solidarity with the government and people of New Zealand at this tragic moment to give utmost assurance for safety of innocent people, both New Zealanders and members of Cambodia community across New Zealand." "We once again reiterate our unwavering commitment to the fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations," the statement added. The statement came after multiple shootings in two mosques of New Zealand's Christchurch on Friday, which killed 49 people and left 48 others wounded. According to the police, four suspects have been arrested so far. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 03:35:54|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close GAZA, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Hundreds of Palestinians demonstrated on Friday in the Gaza Strip for the second day in a row against the worsening economic situation in the coastal enclave that Hamas has been ruling since 2007. Palestinian factions and political groups also denounced the use of force by Hamas security forces against the peaceful protesters against the high cost of living. Eyewitnesses said the police of the Hamas-run Ministry of Interior forcibly dispersed the protesters, mainly in the central Gaza Strip town of Deir el-Ballah. Dozens of protesters burned tires and blocked the main streets, chanting slogans calling for better living situation, they added. Social media activists published photos and video clips showing Hamas police beating demonstrators. The protests broke out on Thursday in the Palestinian refugee camp of Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip and in Deir el-Ballah. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' Fatah party said in a press statement that the use of excessive force against peaceful demonstrators "is condemned," adding "attacking people and journalists is a big shame and barbarian." Meanwhile, Yehia Musa, a Hamas lawmaker, wrote on his Facebook page that Hamas leaders should hold a press conference and announce that it accepts the demonstrators' demands. "We don't need demonstrations and we don't need security intervention. It's the right of everyone to express his opinion and to demonstrate, where security forces role is to protect them," said Musa. The Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP), a left-wing Palestinian party, called on Hamas-run security forces to stop using force against peaceful and civil protest that calls for improving the hard living situation. Rabah Muhana, a senior leader in the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), another Palestinian left-wing party, said in a statement that the Palestinian factions should convene immediately to discuss the situation. "Hamas should apologize to the Palestinian public for its security forces' behavior that only brings shame and it should stop all measures that were taken against the peaceful demonstrators," he said. The demonstrations were organized by a new Palestinian group called the Popular Movement "We Want to Live," which comprises university students and social media activists. The group called for a general strike on Saturday all over the Gaza Strip to condemn the Hamas police attack on the demonstrators, journalists and right activists. It said in a press statement that the demands are to stop imposing taxes on products of food, cigarettes and clothes, as "the taxes are exhausting the poor citizens who suffer from poverty and unemployment." A few days ago, human rights groups in the Gaza Strip accused the Hamas security services of arresting 12 Palestinian activists from northern Gaza. Israel has imposed a tight blockade on the Gaza Strip, home to more than 2 million Palestinians since mid-2007, after Hamas forcibly seized control of the enclave from Abbas' security forces. The unemployment rate has climbed to 52 percent since Israel imposed the blockade, according to the latest Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) report. According to the Palestinian Popular Committee to Confront the Israeli Siege, the per capita daily income of the Gazans is no more than 2 U.S. dollars, the worst in the world. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 04:36:04|Editor: yan Video Player Close ATHENS, March 15 (Xinhua) -- The Prespes (or Prespa) Agreement put an end to stereotypes, visiting Foreign Minister of North Macedonia Nikola Dimitrov said in Athens on Friday, referring to the historic deal Athens and Skopje reached last summer to resolve a long-standing dispute over the use of the name Macedonia. "It was a difficult agreement because it brought change, and people resist change. But what we achieved was outstanding: the agreement put an end to discriminations, taboos and stereotypes," said Dimitrov during joint statements to media with Greek parliament Speaker Nikos Voutsis, according to an e-mailed press release issued by the latter's office. Under the deal, which was signed at Prespes lake, the natural border between the two Balkan states, and sealed by the two parliaments this year, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) was renamed "Republic of North Macedonia". The agreement closed a row that had started in 1991 when FYROM declared independence from Yugoslavia choosing the name Macedonia, and Greece protested from the first moment, fearing territorial claims by the new state, because a province in northern Greece has the same name. "I will not relax until I persuade everyone who reacts that what we have done is the right thing," added Dimitrov, acknowledging that a part of citizens in both sides of the borders still oppose the deal. "The Prespes Agreement provides an opening for cooperation and friendship between the people of Greece and North Macedonia," Voutsis noted on his part, urging the two sides to accelerate the implementation of all provisions. Dimitrov visits Athens to participate a forum hosted at the Faculty of International and European Studies of the University of Piraeus in honor of former Greek Foreign Minister and current Emeritus Professor Nikos Kotzias, who was instrumental in the signing of the Prespes agreement. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 04:46:07|Editor: yan Video Player Close DAMASCUS, March 15 (Xinhua) -- As many as 117 children died in a battered camp in northeastern Syria over the past few months, a war monitor reported Friday. The dead children were mostly under 12 years old and 60 percent of them died as a result of the tough humanitarian situation in the camp over the past 19 days, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The United Nations has made several statements about the tough humanitarian situation in al-Hol camp. Its latest statement on Thursday said there has been an unfolding humanitarian crisis in the camp since December 2018. About 67,000 people are in al-Hol camp, 90 percent of whom are women and children fleeing hostilities from the town of Baghouz, the last IS-held area in eastern Syria. The United Nations said the camp was over-crowded and uninhabitable and threatened human dignity and life where people were forced to sleep on the ground during harsh weather conditions. People are leaving Baghouz on a daily basis and the Observatory said the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has postponed its last push against the IS in the town as the terror group is holding prisoners from the SDF. The SDF, backed by the U.S.-led coalition, has been carrying out a crushing offensive against the IS in eastern Syria since last September. In recent reports, the Observatory said the IS militants were in their last days in eastern Syria amid the progress of the SDF. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 05:11:15|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close WASHINGTON, March 15 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Friday that Washington is still hopeful for continued talks with Pyongyang. "We are hopeful that we can continue to have conversation, negotiations," Pompeo told reporters at a press conference held at the State Department. He confirmed that there is ongoing negotiation between the two sides, but refusing to give the details. Pompeo said that he and his counterpart of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) had "very professional conversations" and he has "every expectation that we'll be able to continue to do that." Pompeo's remarks came hours after Pyongyang blamed the U.S. side for the failure of the recent summit between the DPRK's top leader Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump. After ending the summit in Hanoi on Feb. 28 without reaching an agreement, Trump told a press conference that there was "a gap" in what the DPRK and the United States were pursuing. According to Trump, Kim demanded relief from sanctions against Pyongyang "in their entirety" in exchange for denuclearizing a "large portion" of the DPRK's nuclear program, something the United States could not agree to. Dismissing Trump's claim, DPRK Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho has said that DPRK only proposed partial removal of the sanctions, wanting those impeding the livelihood of their people to be removed first. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 05:26:18|Editor: yan Video Player Close CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand, March 16 (Xinhua) -- A 28-year-old man was due to appear in a court in Christchurch on Saturday morning, in connection with the mass shootings in the New Zealand city on Friday. Three people were arrested in connection with the shooting attacks on two mosques in Christchurch that killed at least 49 people and wounded 48 others. One of them was to appear in court, while the other two are still in custody, according to the police. One of the arrested was from Australia, and had reportedly live streamed the killing via social media under the name Brenton Tarrant. While speaking to the public on Saturday morning, Mayor of Christchurch Lianne Dalziel sent her condolences to the victims and their families and people who are affected by the attacks. "Our thoughts go to the victims and their families and everyone being affected," Lianne Dalziel said. She also acknowledged the "extraordinary response from the police and first responders." "An attack on the Muslin community is an attack on us, on Christchurch and on New Zealand," Dalziel said. She said she believed that Christchurch will go through this together. Major public events during the weekend have all been cancelled across New Zealand as the authorities tightened up security. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 07:06:37|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close LAGOS, March 15 (Xinhua) -- A three-storey building collapsed Friday in Nigeria's southwestern city of Ibadan with casualties feared, local police said. The building collapsed in a residential area in Ibadan, capital of the southern state of Oyo. It was an uncompleted building currently under construction, said Shina Olukolu, the police chief of Oyo. Olukolu confirmed that three people have been rescued so far. Local residents said the victims are mainly laborers working at the construction site. Some residents have crowded the area, attempting to rescue victims trapped underneath the rubble. The incident occurred two days after a similar collapse in the commercial capital Lagos claimed 20 lives, including school children. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 07:16:38|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close U.S. senator John Cornyn (R) speaks during a dialogue at CERAWeek conference in Houston, Texas, the United States on March 15, 2019. The United States and China need to work together to find ways for both to prosper, John Cornyn told an energy conference on Friday. The five-day CERAWeek gathered more than 4,500 guests and speakers in the energy, technology and financial sectors from more than 70 countries and regions this year. (Xinhua/Liu Liwei) by Xinhua writers Gao Lu, Liu Liwei, Liu Yanan HOUSTON, March 15 (Xinhua) -- China needs to enhance energy exploration, international cooperation and technology innovation to improve energy security in an era of energy transformation, International Energy Forum (IEF) Secretary General Sun Xiansheng has said. China is having a heavy external dependence on energy at present, Sun said in an interview with Xinhua during the CERAWeek by the London-based information company IHS Markit. China has become the world's largest crude oil importer since 2017 and surpassed Japan to become the world's largest natural gas importer since the end of 2018. In order to meet new challenges in the energy industry, China should enhance oil and gas exploration domestically to increase oil and gas output, Sun suggested. He also pointed out that China can reinforce international cooperation in the energy field by investing and trading with other countries. "In addition, China should further increase investment in innovation and new technologies, as well as developing and utilizing new energy like hydrogen," he added. With strong support of the Chinese government, enterprises including China National Petroleum Corporation have made great contributions to ensuring national energy security, Sun said, adding "Projects like accessing pipelines and building liquefied Natural gas (LNG) receiving terminals have been done in order to diversify energy imports." According to Sun, the global energy industry has entered a transforming phase due to economic development and environmental concerns. "We are stepping into the Fourth Industrial Revolution, an inevitable stage of industrial development. Besides, climate change has become a consensus among many countries, which had a profound impact on the global economy and energy transformation," Sun said. Sun argued that geopolitics is associated closely with energy and that the link is even more pronounced. "U.S. sanctions against Iran may lead to a shortage of oil and gas supply. Venezuela is in turmoil and its oil production has already fallen from 4 million barrels per day to 1 million barrels per day. The Brexit issue has been dragging too long that the tension may have a huge impact on the European energy industry. These geopolitical problems will create uncertainties in the supply of energy market," he said. Commenting on the U.S. energy development, Sun said driven by technology, shale oil has boomed in the country in recent years. "The rapid growth of shale oil transformed the U.S. from a major energy importing country to an exporting country, shaping the global landscape," he said, adding that the increase in U.S. oil output has also played a role in balancing global oil prices. The 72-member IEF is a neutral facilitator of informal, open, informed and continuing global energy dialogue. Accounting for around 90 percent of global supply and demand for oil and gas, it aims to foster greater mutual understanding and awareness of common energy interests among its member countries. The 38th CERAWeek, which kicked off on Monday with an IEA press conference, is an annual energy meeting with the attendance of prominent speakers from energy, technology and financial sectors. This year's meeting was attended by more than 4,500 guests from over 70 countries and regions. (Zhang Jingyu from China Petroleum Daily contributed to the story) Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 07:31:40|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close UNITED NATIONS, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Women across the world continue to face multiple and intersecting inequalities, a Pakistani official said here on Friday. Addressing the 63rd Session of the Commission on the Status of Women, Khawar Mumtaz, head of Pakistan delegation to the conference, said that prompted by poverty, volatile economy and lack of opportunity, these challenges accentuate domestic and gender-based violence and discriminatory practices against women. "When extreme poverty knocks the door, women are often the first to lose livelihoods," Mumtaz said. "Pakistan aligns itself with the statement delivered by Palestine on behalf of the Group of 77 and China," she said, adding that financial challenges and persistent gaps directly affect poor households and rural areas. Women and girls in poor households and rural areas experience clustered deprivations from lower access to education, health care and decent housing to clean energy, water and sanitation, Mumtaz said. The priority theme for this year's session "Social Protection Systems, Access to Public Services and Sustainable Infrastructure for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of the Women and Girls" is apt and timely, she said. Social protection, public services and sustainable infrastructure are closely interlinked with policy and legislative framework to ensure delivery of social security, the Pakistani official said. Social protection is a human right and the welfare of all citizens in all stages of life is essential, she said, adding that Pakistan has made significant strides to ensure social protection for its citizen and Pakistan recognizes social protection as an explicit fundamental right. "A good social protection policy is inclusive in all its diversity to social protection system for women and girls," Mumtaz said. Feminization of inequality persists and the eradication of these inequalities in all its forms and dimensions is an indispensable requirement of women's social security, economic empowerment and sustainable development, she said. Pakistan's Vision 2025, the blue print for Pakistan's own long-term, sustainable and inclusive development, prioritizes social protection through institutional restructuring, policies and fiscal reforms, women employment in public sector, and women's political participation, she said. The National Social Protection Strategy (NSPS) of Pakistan, through policy and program intervention addresses poverty and vulnerability by contributing to raise the income of poor households, she said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 07:31:40|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close UNITED NATIONS, March 15 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy said Friday that China is ready to continue to play a constructive role in South Sudan. "China is ready to continue to play a constructive role in achieving peace, stability and development in South Sudan," Wu Haitao, the charge d'affaires of China's Permanent Mission to the United Nations, told the Security Council after it adopted Resolution 2459 to extend the mandate of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). "Since its deployment, UNMISS has played an important role in maintaining peace and stability in South Sudan," he said. "The international community should continue to support the mission in carrying out its mandate," Wu added. He also noted that the international community, especially the Security Council, should fully acknowledge the importance of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan signed between the government and major oppositions last September. "UNMISS should focus on facilitating the implementation of the agreement in order to help sustain the current positive momentum in South Sudan," he added. The Security Council on Friday extended the mandate of UNMISS for an additional year till March 15, 2020. The resolution, drafted by the United States, received 14 votes in favor from the 15-member Security Council and one abstention from Russia. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 07:46:42|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close MOSCOW, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Russia's top diamond producer Alrosa is in talks with Tiffany & Co on the supply of small-sized rough diamonds of premium colors, Alrosa CEO Sergei Ivanov has said. "We have a long-standing good relationship with Tiffany. They value and have been buying Russian diamonds of a certain range," Ivanov was quoted by TASS news agency as saying on Friday. "They have additional needs, so we are in talks with them on premium colors and not just small-sized raw materials. These are diamonds of small sizes, but of very high quality," he said. Ivanov did not mention the value of a possible contract, but said that it is "not a major one." Diamonds, with different colors, like pink, blue, orange, green and violet, are extremely rare and usually sold at premium prices. Alrosa mines diamonds in the Russian Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) and the Arkhangelsk Region. Last year it produced 36.7 million carats of rough diamonds and its revenue from sales of diamond products amounted to 300 billion rubles (4.63 billion U.S. dollars). After a series of one-off supply deals with Laurelton Diamonds, a subsidiary of Tiffany & Co, Alrosa signed in 2012 a long-term supply contract with it, Alrosa said on its website. It did not disclose details of the deals. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 08:01:45|Editor: Yang Yi Video Player Close New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern reacts during a briefing in Wellington, capital of New Zealand, on March 16, 2019. Jacinda Ardern reiterated to the public on Saturday morning that the country's gun law will be changed. Gunmen opened fire in two separate mosques in Christchurch on Friday, killing 49 people and wounding 48 others. (Xinhua/Guo Lei) WELLINGTON, March 16 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern reiterated to the public on Saturday morning that the country's gun law will be changed. The move came after gunmen attacked two mosques in the country's second largest city Christchurch and five guns were discovered, two of which are semi-automatic guns. Other weapons and firearms were also retrieved by the police. It is understood that the killers of the terror attacks have legitimate gun license. "Our gun law will be changed," the prime minister said. So far three suspects are now in custody. They are all Australian citizens, but not in any watch list of New Zealand or Australia. A fourth arrest was not related to the killing and the person was then discharged. A 28-year old man is due to appear on Christchurch District Court on Saturday morning. The man has been charged with murder. Two others are still in custody. It is reported that the man who has been charged with murder is named Brenton Tarrant. He is an Australian National who live streamed the killing via social media. Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel spoke to the public on Saturday morning, sending her condolences to the victims and their families and the people who are affected by the attacks. "Our thoughts go to the victims and their families and everyone being affected," Dalziel said. She also acknowledged the extraordinary response from the police and first responders. "An attack on the Muslin community is an attack on us, on Christchurch and on New Zealand," Dalziel said. The mayor believed that Christchurch would go through this together. Major public events during the weekend have all been cancelled across New Zealand in the wake of the terror attacks. At least 49 people were killed and 48 others injured in the terror attacks on two mosques in Christchurch on Friday. Source Xinhua| 2019-03-16 08:09:16|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close Israelis take part in a parade celebrating the Jewish holiday of Purim near Modi'in, on March 15, 2019. Purim is one of the most joyous and fun holidays on the Jewish calendar. It commemorates a time when the Jewish people living in Persia were saved from extermination. (Xinhua/Gil Cohen Magen) Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 08:11:46|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close Media crews wait in front of a court in Christchurch, New Zealand, on March 16, 2019. A 28-year-old man was due to appear in a court in Christchurch on Saturday morning, in connection with the mass shootings in the New Zealand city on Friday. (Xinhua/Zhu Qiping) CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The 28-year old Australian man Brenton Tarrant who staged terror attacks on two mosques in New Zealand's Christchurch was charged here with murder Saturday morning. The terror attacks on Friday have left at least 49 people dead and 48 injured. Tarrant was apprehended along with two other Australian men. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern reiterated to the public on Saturday morning that New Zealand's gun law would be changed in the wake of the terror attacks. Five guns have been discovered, two of which are semi-automatic guns after the terror attacks. Other weapons and firearms have also been retrieved by the police It is understood that the killers has a legitimate gun license. "Our gun law will be changed," said Ardern. Three suspects are now in custody. They are all Australian citizens, but not in any watch list of New Zealand or Australia. A fourth arrest was not related to the killing and the person was then discharged. Tarrant is charged with murder. Two others are still in custody. He live streamed the killing via social media. Major public events during the weekend have all been cancelled across New Zealand. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 09:01:55|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close TAIYUAN, March 16 (Xinhua) -- House collapse triggered by a landslide in north China's Shanxi Province has left two people dead and 17 others missing, local authorities said Saturday. The accident happened around 6:10 p.m. Friday in the township of Zaoling in Linfen city, where a landslide toppled two residential buildings and a public bathhouse. So far, 13 people have been pulled out of the debris, but two of them were found dead. The rescuers are searching for the missing people, the local government said. More than 600 people, including public security officers, armed police, emergency rescue and medical staff, are participating in the rescue. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 09:11:56|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China's official data showed that most production goods monitored by the government posted higher prices in the first 10 days of March compared with the previous 10 days. Of the 50 major goods monitored by the government, including seamless steel tubes, gasoline, coal, fertilizer and some chemicals, 32 goods saw their prices rise during the period, with 12 posting lower prices and six seeing their prices unchanged, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). Prices of live pigs and methyl alcohol picked up notably while liquefied natural gas, cement and soybean meal led the declines, according to the NBS. The reading, released every 10 days, is based on a survey of nearly 1,700 wholesalers and distributors in 24 provinces and regions. The data came after the NBS data showed the country's producer price index, which measures costs of goods at the factory gate, edged up 0.1 percent year on year in February, with the pace of growth unchanged from January. New Braunfels, TX (78130) Today Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 82F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight Partly cloudy this evening with more clouds for overnight. Low near 55F. WNW winds at 5 to 10 mph, increasing to 15 to 25 mph. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 09:27:00|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close HOHHOT, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Police in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region have found an artillery shell discarded by Japanese troops from World War II. The shell was found buried at a deserted plant workshop in Arxan, a county-level city that borders Mongolia, on March 11, when police were conducting a production safety inspection. Police dug it out with bare hands to make sure the shell would not detonate, said a border police officer with the Hinggan League, which governs Arxan. A preliminary examination found the shell was left by Japanese troops, and it has been relocated to a safe site for final destruction. Located on the southwestern edge of the Greater Hinggan Mountains, Arxan is rich in forest resources. Records show Japanese invaders ruled brutally and economically plundered the area from 1934 to 1940. They also built military fortresses during the same period. After the Japanese invaders were defeated in 1945, they buried a large quantity of chemicals weapons, shells and bombs in Chinese territory. Police also searched the nearby area and found no more shells. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 09:52:05|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close The site of the terrorist attacks is sealed off in Christchurch, New Zealand, on March 16, 2019. Gunmen opened fire in two separate mosques in Christchurch on Friday, killing 49 people and wounding 48 others. (Xinhua/Lu Huaiqian) CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand, March 16 (Xinhua) -- A 28-year-old Australian man charged with murder appeared in the Christchurch District Court on Saturday morning following Friday's terror attacks on two mosques in the city. The attacks in two mosques in central Christchurch killed at least 49 people and injured 48 others. Brenton Tarrant, in white prison suit, barefooted, handcuffed and flanked by two armed police officers, made a brief appearance in the court for about five minutes. Tarrant, who was not granted name suppression, smirked to the camera of the media dock and frequently scanned the court room which was closed to the public. The charging document showed the maximum penalty will be life imprisonment. He will be in custody until April 5, according to the High Court in Christchurch. Tarrant's occupation was not given on the charging document, and his address was provided as a place in Dunedin, more than 300 km south of Christchurch in New Zealand's South Island. The judge briefed the media before the hearing, saying videos and photographs were only released by approved New Zealand media outlets including TVNZ and RNZ. International media were packed outside the court before the hearing, along with heavily armed police and security staff. Meanwhile, outside the court, major roads in the city center are cordoned off with heavy armed police officers on duty. Vehicles are prohibited, but people can walk closer to the mosques where the shooting happened on Friday. From time to time people outside the cordon came to place flowers under a tree to express their condolences to the victims. A disabled man on crutches, accompanied by a lady with flowers in her hands, was also seen come to the spot. Several women sobbed silently. Four New Zealand women hugged each other outside the cordon. One of the women told Xinhua "No matter what cultural backgrounds, races or religions you are from, we are absolutely together." Ansun Zhong, owner of Chong's Chinese restaurant in Christchurch City Central, said the shooting greatly affected people's life in Christchurch. "It makes people panic," Zhong said. Huang Yan, the manager of the Christchurch branch of China's Southern Airlines, told Xinhua the mass shooting would bring negative impact on New Zealand tourism as Christchurch has just been recovered from the aftermath of the 2011 deadly earthquake. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 09:57:09|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close SAN FRANCISCO, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Major world social media including Facebook, Google and Twitter are working hard to take down posts containing graphic footage of terror attacks on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand Friday. Gunmen staged the terrorist attacks on two mosques packed with worshipers attending Friday prayers in the South Island's city, which killed 49 people and injured 48 others. One of the shooters appeared to have live-streamed the attacks on Facebook that purportedly showed a gunman walking into a mosque and opening fire on the prayers. The account of the shooter has now been removed from Facebook, and many other posts that had originally shared the footage have also disappeared from the platform. Mia Garlick of Facebook's New Zealand office said in a statement to American internet media BuzzFeed journalist Ryan Mac that the company is working to block the shooting video from spreading in the Facebook community. "Since the attack happened, teams from across Facebook have been working around the clock to respond to reports and block content, proactively identify content which violates our standards," she said. "We are adding each video we find to an internal database which enables us to detect and automatically remove copies of the videos when uploaded again," Garlick added. Twitter also pulled down the original video and suspended the account that shared it on its platform, saying the user had violated its policies banning graphic, hate or terror content. A Twitter spokesperson said in a statement released to media that it has "rigorous processes and a dedicated team in place for managing exigent and emergency situations such as this." YouTube stated on its Twitter account that it was working vigilantly to suspend any violent footage. "Our hearts are broken over today's terrible tragedy in New Zealand. Please know we are working vigilantly to remove any violent footage," YouTube tweeted. "Shocking, violent and graphic content has no place on our platforms, and is removed as soon as we become aware of it," said YouTbue. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 10:07:10|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese community in New Zealand's Christchurch has stood out following Friday's terrorist attacks on two mosques, condemning terrorism and expressing their support for the victims by donating money. Although there was no Chinese casualty in the attacks, the Chinese community is closely following the situation and cares about all victims, Canton Chamber of Commerce in New Zealand, an organization of local Chinese merchants, said in a statement Saturday. "No racism, no violence, no terrorism of any form!" said the statement. The chamber has asked all its members to donate money for the victims and is in contact with the Consulate General of China in Christchurch to voice support and condolences for the victims on behalf of all Chinese in the city, said the statement. The University of Canterbury Chinese Students & Scholars Society also expressed shock and regret over the attacks on Saturday, saying the atrocities have destroyed many people's lives and aroused deep anger. "However, what they (the perpetrators) cannot destroy is our will," the society said in a statement. "The diversity of New Zealand will not be shaken by such atrocities, nor will the virtue of helping each other by people on the land of this country," it added. Terrorism is the common enemy of all mankind that should not be allowed anywhere in the world, it said. "We strongly condemn the attack, and extend our sincere sympathy to families of the victims," it added. Several gunmen opened fire at two mosques in central Christchurch Friday afternoon, leaving at least 49 people dead and 48 injured. Three suspects are now in custody, with one having appeared in court Saturday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 10:37:17|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close KIEV, March 15 (Xinhua) -- The Central Electoral Commission (CEC) will not install cameras at polling stations to monitor the voting process of the forthcoming presidential elections in Ukraine, a senior CEC official said here on Friday. "Video surveillance at polling stations is not envisaged by any law, including the law on the election of the president of Ukraine, therefore such video surveillance will not be conducted," Eugene Radchenko, the deputy head of the CEC, was quoted as saying by the government-run Ukrinform news agency. However, state and local governing bodies have the right to install cameras inside the polling stations for security purposes, he added. Ukraine will hold presidential elections on March 31 at some 29,800 polling stations in 199 electoral districts across the country. About 131,500 law enforcement personnel will be deployed to ensure security at the elections. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 10:42:18|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close by Xinhua writer Lyu Tianran BUJUMBURA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Burundian farmer Evrard Ndayikeje has recently won an award given by the Chinese Embassy here for those who have a high production of Chinese hybrid rice in Ninga village in northwestern Burundi. The yield of Ndayikeje's rice field reached some 11 tons per hectare in the last season. But before he learned rice-growing techniques from Chinese agricultural experts, he could only harvest three tons per hectare. The Chinese government has dispatched four agriculture expert groups to Burundi since 2009. The current group comprises nine members -- seven agriculture experts and two translators. They introduced Chinese hybrid rice to the central African country and started to grow the species in a roughly 48-hectare field in Ninga village in 2018, bringing together some 130 families and over 1,000 people to join the program. "They changed my life in a short time," said Ndayikeje, who was one of the participants. "Before I met the Chinese experts in 2016, I didn't have work for two years after graduating from university, and I grew traditional rice on my family's land, but didn't have much production and didn't have money," the 29-year-old said. Chinese experts hired Ndayikeje as their assistant and taught him how to grow Chinese hybrid rice. Afterwards, he was able to teach farmers from other villages to do the same. "I got married one year later and was financed by the money earned from growing Chinese hybrid rice. I have my own house now," he said. Because of his ability to grow rice, the Burundian government employed him as a member of the national committee for the development of the environment, agriculture and livestock in Bubanza province, where Ninga village is located. After reaping a good harvest in the first season that concluded in February, the village has started the second season's demonstration production, said Yang Huade, chief of the Chinese agriculture experts group. The average production reached 10 tons per hectare in the first season, increasing from 4 tons per hectare before, Yang said. To help Burundian farmers become self-reliant in growing Chinese hybrid rice, the Chinese experts cooperated with the Burundian government in helping villagers establish a fund which pools part of farmers' incomes from growing rice to buy seeds, fertilizers and chemicals for new production. Besides training farmers, the experts also train government officials, agricultural technicians and researchers in the agricultural sector to ensure technical support. To serve the Burundian farmers better, 55-year-old Yang and his fellows spend 20 days every month on average in different fields across the country. "Our farmers have a good production now. When we can have that production in the whole country, Burundi can be developed," said Deo-Guide Rurema, Burundian minister of environment, agriculture and livestock. Burundi wants to continue its agricultural cooperation with China and promote cooperation in other fields including vegetable production, the minister said. China will further push forward the agricultural development of Burundi in line with the needs and the actual situation of the country, said Chinese Ambassador to Burundi Li Changlin. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 12:22:29|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand, March 16 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Saturday that the suspect of the deadly mosque attacks used modified semi-automatic weapons. She told a press conference in Wellington that there were still 39 people in hospital, 11 of whom in critical conditions. The prime minister said the two police officers who arrested Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian man, deserved plaudits for their bravery. Tarrant was charged with murder Saturday morning. The terrorist attack left 49 dead and 48 people wounded in two Christchurch mosques. Tarrant was apprehended along with two other Australian men. Earlier in the day, Ardern said the country's gun law would be changed. "Our gun law will be changed" said Ardern, noting that the killers had legitimate gun license. Five guns were discovered, two of which were semi-automatic guns, she said. Other weapons and firearms were also retrieved by the police after the attacks on Friday. Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel on Saturday extended her condolences to the victims and their families and people who are affected by the attacks. "Our thoughts go to the victims and their families and everyone that being affect," Dalziel told Xinhua, calling the event "an unspeakable tragedy." She also acknowledged the extraordinary response from the police and first responders. "An attack on the Muslin community is an attack on us, on Christchurch and on New Zealand," Dalziel said. She believed that Christchurch people will go through this together by "looking after each other ... in many diverse communities in our city." "We need to make sure that everyone feels safe, and everyone feels welcome and everyone feels a part of the city," the mayor said. Major public events during the weekend have all been cancelled across New Zealand after the attacks. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 12:42:32|Editor: ZX Video Player Close NAIROBI, March 15 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations (UN) delegates who attended the just concluded fourth session of UN Environment Assembly in Nairobi on Friday called for efforts to manage migration as a result of environmental effects. The delegates linked the current environmental degradation to global migration, adding that climate change and other kinds of environmental degradation are forcing people to leave traditional settlements. "We need to look at weather patterns and advice populations accordingly so that they are not caught unaware with the weather related vagaries," said Jeffrey Labovitz, director of the Regional Office for East and Horn of Africa of the International Organization for Migration. There is a need to develop programs to help tackle the problem that started as internal displacements but has since traversed the boundaries, Labovitz said on a side event. The five-year drought in eastern Africa proved that environmental degradation and climate change are the main causes of drought and migration in the region, he said. The connection between migration and climate change is complex and requires a joint effort to manage, he said. "We need institutions and policies in the countries of origin to make migration a choice rather than a desperate necessity," he added. "We must work together and share experiences to help us minimize the adverse drivers of migration as one family," said Satya Tripathi, head of New York Office at UN Environment. The fourth session of UN Environment Assembly, under the theme "Innovative Solutions for Environmental challenges and Sustainable Consumption and Production," was held on March 11-15 in Nairobi, Kenya. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 12:47:32|Editor: ZX Video Player Close KIGALI, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Rwandan government on Friday launched a campaign to raise awareness of women and girls in the rural areas of learning and using technologies, local media reported. Technology is a cornerstone of development and women and girls should therefore not be left behind because of their role in the country and world development, Minister of Information and Communication Technology and Innovation Paula Ingabire said at the launching ceremony in the western Rubavu district. She called on women and girls to take advantage of the opportunities presented by technology and learn how to use it in various sectors. The campaign, which targets women in rural areas in such industries as agriculture and small businesses, will be conducted across the country to enable grassroots women to use technology as a tool in their daily lives. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 12:52:33|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China will launch a nationwide campaign to promote online learning, according to a circular released by the Ministry of Education. A total of 10 million teachers and students will be encouraged to register with online learning platforms this year, the circular said. The country will select 40 excellent online learning platforms and 200 schools and universities for nationwide promotion and demonstration. The ministry said it would continue to work with China Telecom and China Mobile to train 2,000 headmasters and 4,000 teachers of primary and secondary schools to better use online learning platforms. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 12:52:33|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close ADDIS ABABA, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has confirmed his attendance at the upcoming second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation to be held in Beijing next month, Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia Tan Jian revealed on Friday. Nebiat Getachew, spokesperson of the Ethiopia Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), told Xinhua recently that Ethiopia and China already enjoy multifaceted ties, which are expected to be further strengthened at the upcoming forum. "Ethiopia is a strong partner of China in the African continent. Ethiopia's expected attendance at the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation is a further testament to the strong bilateral ties," said Getachew. The East African country, which has been cooperating with China on the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), also recently expressed its keen interest to work with more vigor to implement agreements inked between Ethiopia and China. Ethiopia's new Ambassador to China Teshome Toga Chanaka vowed last month to work in priority areas of mutual interest, including the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the China-proposed BRI. "Ethiopia is more committed than ever to fully apply and accomplish the agreements it has made with China mainly through the Ethiopia-China comprehensive strategic partnership platform, the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, and the Belt and Road Initiative," MoFA quoted Toga as saying last month. On May 14-15, 2017, the first Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation was held in Beijing, attended by state and government leaders of 29 countries. More than 1,600 participants from over 140 countries and 80 international organizations also attended the forum. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 13:22:37|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close KABUL, March 16 (Xinhua) -- A car bomb exploded prematurely in Koti Sangi district of western Kabul, killing two people, including the driver, on early Saturday, local police said. The car was carrying a magnetic bomb when it exploded prematurely, Basir Mujahid, the spokesman of Kabul police department, told Xinhua. Investigators are already at the site investigating the blast, Mujahid added. He also said that the vehicle is a private car, not a military vehicle. More details will be published after the investigation, Mujahid said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 13:22:37|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close MUMBAI, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Indian coast guard extinguished a major fire in a research vessel on Friday night following sounding of an alert, media report said Saturday. The ship with 36 crew members and six scientists on board was a research vessel belonging to the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) named Sagar Sampada, said a report by New Delhi Television Limited (NDTV). The Indian coast guard ships, named Sujay and Vikram, engaged in firefighting operations, and managed to put out the fire and escort the crew to safety. The origin of the fire in the research vessel could not be ascertained so far. The research vessel was escorted to the New Mangalore harbour in Karnataka, India's South Western state. The research vessel was equipped to carry out research in marine biology and fishery, the report said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 13:27:37|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close by Peter Mertz DENVER, the United States, March 15 (Xinhua) -- As millions of Americans feel the brunt of a powerful, late season storm, climate experts said the sudden blizzard was no fluke, but a sign of things to come. "Blame climate change for the 'bomb cyclone,'" said Sonia Aggarwal, vice president of Energy Innovation, a Los Angeles-based energy policy think tank. In 48 hours, the freak storm, called a "bomb cyclone," has affected some 100 million Americans, the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) estimated Friday. It has rumbled across roughly 5.18 million square km from the Rocky Mountains to the Mississippi River, and from the Mexican to Canadian borders. On Friday, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed an emergency disaster proclamation for funding to combat flooding in parts of the state caused by the "bomb cyclone." "Some of the devastating flooding associated with this storm is due to the fact that heavy rain is falling on areas where there is snow on the ground," said Kristina Dahl, senior climate scientist of the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS). "Whether precipitation falls as rain or as snow is clearly linked to temperature, with rainfall being more likely in a warmer world," she told Xinhua. BLAST FROM THE ROCKIES Reynolds was the second governor behind Colorado's Jared Polis to declare a state of emergency from the unexpected climate bomb blast. On Wednesday up to 1.2 meters of snow and 170-km-per-hour winds blasted Colorado, leaving thousands of motorists stranded and tens of thousands of people without power in Colorado and Texas. Southern Colorado saw a staggering 114.3 centimeters of snow fall over 24 hours starting from Wednesday. Rescue crews scrambled nonstop using ski-resort Snowcat equipment to pull frantic motorists to safety, as thousands of cars were left on the shoulders of highways, local sheriff departments reported. On Wednesday, a 100-vehicle accident was reported near the town of Wellington in Colorado, and a state trooper was killed trying to rescue a stranded motorist. For more than two days, hundreds of airline travelers slept inside Colorado's Denver International Airport while the storm raged and clean-up operations ensued. By Friday, the "bomb cyclone" was 1,183 km away, flooding roads in Iowa, Nebraska and Missouri and heading northeast into Minnesota toward Canada. Fringes of the storm triggered a tornado in Kentucky, and tornado watches were issued throughout the region and as far east as Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee, the NWS reported Friday. BOMB CYCLONE Although the term "bomb cyclone" dates back to the year of 1980, it has only been used recently by meteorologists. "A 'bomb cyclone' happens when there's a rapid pressure drop, with a decrease of at least 24 millibars (a measure of atmospheric pressure) over 24 hours known as "bombogenesis," according to the U.S. Weather Channel. "This storm has dropped 33 millibars since Tuesday morning and continues to strengthen," it said. "This type of storm behavior usually requires conditions that occur nearer to an ocean, and may be a first for Colorado," the NWS tweeted on Wednesday. "The storm is expected to have an intense impact," it said. In the eyes of Greg Carbin, chief of Forecast Operations for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, "this is a very epic cyclone," which could develop into the worst storm of its type in 35 or 40 years. WHY? "The intensity of this storm is due to a merging of two powerful jet stream disturbances that created a strong area of low pressure next to an area of high pressure that is feeding mild air and moisture from the Gulf of Mexico northward," Aggarwal said. "Climate change is linked to unusual jet stream behavior and warming in the Gulf of Mexico, both of which can affect storm activity," she said. "Modeling studies consistently suggest that the frequency and intensity of severe storms in the United States could increase as climate changes, particularly over the U.S. Midwest and Southern Great Plains during spring," she said. Monika Barcikowska, a scientist at U.S. environmental watchdog titan the Environmental Defense League, concurred with Aggarwal. "Scientists are currently investigating how the potential impacts of changes in atmospheric circulation patterns (specifically the weakening jet stream) associated with Arctic warming may influence mid-latitude cold snaps," said Barcikowska. "We do know that here is a link between the warming Arctic and the weather patterns in the mid-latitudes," she said. Besides, in the eyes of Dahl from the UCS, an organization with more than 100,000 members, "there is mounting evidence that climate change is influencing the pattern and position of the jet stream, and those changes could influence the development and path of storms." All the scientists agreed that aberrant climate conditions, such as the hurricanes that have ravaged U.S. East Coast and Gulf of Mexico states in recent years, were the results of climate change. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 13:32:38|Editor: Yang Yi Video Player Close New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern reacts during a briefing in Wellington, capital of New Zealand, on March 16, 2019. Jacinda Ardern reiterated to the public on Saturday morning that the country's gun law will be changed. Gunmen opened fire in two separate mosques in Christchurch on Friday, killing 49 people and wounding 48 others. (Xinhua/Guo Lei) CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand, March 16 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Saturday that the suspect of the deadly mosque attacks used modified semi-automatic weapons. She told a press conference that there were still 39 people in hospital, 11 of whom in critical conditions. The prime minister said the two police officers who arrested Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian man, deserved plaudits for their bravery. Tarrant was charged with murder and appeared in court briefly on Saturday morning. The terrorist attacks left 49 people dead and 48 others wounded in two Christchurch mosques. Tarrant was apprehended along with two other Australian men. Earlier in the day, Ardern said the country's gun law would be changed. "Our gun law will be changed" said Ardern, noting that the killers had a legitimate gun license. Five guns were discovered, two of which were semi-automatic guns, she said. Other weapons and firearms were also retrieved by the police after the attacks on Friday. Police Commissioner Mike Bush told another press conference that his top priority was on public safety across New Zealand and was supporting the victims and staff involved. "The investigation into the intelligence failures is also a priority," Bush said. The police chief was joined by representatives from the agencies working on the ground -- Victim's Support, City Council, Civil Defence, Fire and Emergency and the Defence Force. Bush acknowledged the bravery of the public, police officers and emergency responders. He said the arrest took 36 minutes from the first emergency call. Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel on Saturday extended her condolences to the victims and their families and people who are affected by the attacks. "Our thoughts go to the victims and their families and everyone that being affect," Dalziel said. She also acknowledged the extraordinary response from the police and first responders. "An attack on the Muslin community is an attack on us, on Christchurch and on New Zealand," Dalziel said. She believed that Christchurch people will go through this together by "looking after each other ... in many diverse communities in our city." Calling the event "an unspeakable tragedy," the mayor told Xinhua, "We need to make sure that everyone feels safe, everyone feels welcome and everyone feels a part of the city." Major public events during the weekend have all been cancelled across New Zealand after the attacks. Flags were flown at half-mast in government buildings to mourn the victims. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 13:32:38|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close NAIROBI, March 15 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations (UN) 2019 Climate Summit, which will take place on Sept. 23, is expected to adopt concrete action plans to promote the global green agenda, a UN official said here on Friday. World leaders, policymakers, business executives and campaigners who will attend the high-level meeting are expected to chart a new roadmap to help mankind leapfrog into a green and sustainable future, said Luis Alfonso de Alba, UN secretary-general's special envoy for the 2019 Climate Summit. Preparations for the summit are in top gear and organizers have identified specific areas for discussions that are expected to boost global response to climate change, the official told Xinhua on a side event of the just concluded fourth session of UN Environment Assembly in Nairobi, Kenya. "We look forward to a meeting that can agree on specific actions to be implemented immediately to boost emissions' reduction and climate mitigation," he said. One of the key objectives of the summit will be to urge industrial powers to cut down on carbon emissions in line with international treaties, he said. "We will also be focusing on transformative areas like renewable energy and nature-based solutions to climate change including forests, land and oceans," he said. "The summit will pay attention to specific sectors that can boost emissions reduction like aviation, shipping and cement manufacturing," he said, adding that incentives to boost investments in green technologies will also be discussed at the summit. More than 100 world leaders are expected to attend the high-level climate summit in New York. The fourth session of UN Environment Assembly, under the theme "Innovative Solutions for Environmental challenges and Sustainable Consumption and Production," was held on March 11-15 in Nairobi, Kenya. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 13:32:38|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese primary-level officials can expect fewer documents, shorter meetings and more time spent on practical work this year. A circular, recently released by the General Office of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, named 2019 as "the year to alleviate burdens on primary-level authorities." According to the document, the number or length of official documents and meetings should be drastically cut down by authorities of various levels. It lists practical measures to address excessive efforts on the supervision and evaluation of primary-level authorities and officials' work, as well as to improve the system of accountability and the incentive mechanism. "The circular can reduce the burdens of formalities in our daily work," said Zhang Jing, an official of Dayang Town in the city of Bozhou, east China's Anhui Province. "Some officials have spent a lot of time preparing all kinds of documents to achieve better results in their performance evaluation. Now they can focus more on solid work," Zhang said. Cheng Peng is the Party chief of the poverty-stricken Kongwang Village of Anze County, north China's Shanxi Province. He still vividly remembers four years ago when he first arrived at the village he had to visit poor people, going from household to household and filling out many forms every day. As the country has taken actions against the practice of "formalities for formalities' sake," Cheng felt the burdens on his shoulder had gotten lighter over the past few years. "Last year, I had fewer documents to handle, and was able to focus on the cucurbit growing industry and the construction of a new purified water plant," he said. "I will do my best to be a 'man of action' and contribute more to the economy." Fewer burdens do not mean fewer responsibilities, said Huang Yanping, vice chairman of the Chongqing committee of China Democratic League, a non-Communist political party. "Officials will have fewer and shorter meetings, so the efficiency and effectiveness of meetings should be improved; having fewer documents means that the communication mechanism should be improved to ensure adequate implementation," Huang said. Cheng Wenhao, a professor at Tsinghua University in Beijing, said excessive meetings and documents have long been a problem. "We can only improve our work style by having the right attitude towards officials' achievements and evaluating them according to their contribution to the livelihood of the people," he said. The CPC has been making efforts to improve the Party's conduct and work style. Its campaign against extravagance and undesirable work styles -- formalities for formalities' sake, bureaucratism, hedonism, and extravagance -- has seen about 262,600 officials punished from 2012 to 2017. Shi Jianxun, a professor at Tongji University in Shanghai, said the newly published circular can help better solve the problems of formalities for formalities' sake and bureaucratism, and encourage primary-level authorities to be more involved in solid work, which is also in line with the expectation of the general public. It shows that the Party has been facing up to problems and continuously improving its own ability to govern, he said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 13:32:38|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close HOUSTON, March 15 (Xinhua) -- The proposed liquefied Natural gas (LNG) exporting project in the state of Alaska needs to have economics for everyone in a bid to continue to push forward the project, said Mike Dunleavy, governor of Alaska on Friday at a media briefing. "If the state is going to be a partner, it has to be economical and has to have a return for whatever investment the state will put into," said Dunleavy. It's also the same with other investors and the project has to pay out for everyone, added Dunleavy. Now, Alaska Gasline Development Corporation (AGDC), an independent public company, is working with oil and gas industry players on feasibility study of the LNG project, which was proposed in as early as 2013. Dunleavy suggested that continuous warming of the Arctic may be a game changer for the LNG project with a designed annual production capacity of 20 million tonnes. If natural gas could be directly loaded on ships from North Slope, the expense of the proposed 800 miles of gas pipeline could be eliminated, according to Dunleavy. Dunleavy added that abundance of natural gas in the market certainly is a concern for the prospects of the LNG project in the short term. Conventional oil and gas resources in Alaska offer a long-term play and investment though they are a little more expensive, according to Dunleavy. In 2016, oil giants including BP, ConocoPhillips and ExxonMobil pulled out of the LNG project due to concerns on poor competitiveness. Still, BP and ExxonMobil signed an agreement with AGDC in early March to collaborate to advance the LNG project by identifying ways to improve its competitiveness and make progress in obtaining regulatory authorizations, according to a release by AGDC on March 8. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 13:47:40|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close KABUL, March 16 (Xinhua) -- A car bomb exploded prematurely in Koti Sangi district of western Kabul, killing the driver and injuring two passers-by early on Saturday, local police said. The car was carrying a magnetic bomb when it exploded prematurely, Basir Mujahid, the spokesman of Kabul police department, told Xinhua. Investigators are already at the site investigating the blast, Mujahid added. He also said that the vehicle is a private car, not a military vehicle. More details will be published after the investigation, Mujahid said. No individual or group has so far claimed responsibility for the explosion. Afghan insurgents have stepped up magnetic bomb attacks in Kabul city and other large cities and provinces of the country in recent years. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 14:07:45|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Le Yucheng (C) attends a session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, March 15, 2019. China on Friday completed its 3rd UN Human Rights Council Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process which its delegation head described as "smooth and successful." "Wide recognitions" were achieved regarding China's human rights achievements, human rights development path and the country's determination to promote human rights situation, said Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Le Yucheng, also head of the Chinese delegation, after the session at the council, which adopted a final report on China's third Universal Periodic Review in November 2018. (Xinhua/Xu Jinquan) GENEVA, March 15 (Xinhua) -- China on Friday completed its 3rd UN Human Rights Council Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process which its delegation head described as "smooth and successful." "Wide recognitions" were achieved regarding China's human rights achievements, human rights development path and the country's determination to promote human rights situation, said Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Le Yucheng after the session at the council, which adopted a final report on China's third Universal Periodic Review in November 2018. Le, also head of the Chinese delegation, recalled that he had announced last November in Geneva during the UPR that China would take 30 measures to promote further human rights development and "most of those measures have seen an early harvest." "At today's session I further announce that China has decided to accept 284 out of 346 recommendations put forward by various parties," Le said Friday. "China is open to accept all recommendations if they are consistent with China's realities and ... conducive to promoting and protecting human rights in China," said Le. He refuted unfounded accusations against China made by some countries and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), saying they will end up "isolating themselves." "China resolutely opposes the use of human rights as an excuse to interfere in China's internal affairs and undermine China's sovereignty and territorial integrity," he noted. DE-EXTREMIZATION MEASURES Asked about China's "counter-terrorism measures" in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Le said they are not issues about ethnic or religious matters. "They are matters concerning the maintenance of stability in Xinjiang and the maintenance of China's territorial integrity," he said. He told reporters that Xinjiang had been affected by terrorism since the 1990s, and the government would not sit by and do nothing in the face of such threats. The Xinjiang government has adopted a series of anti-terrorism and de-extremization measures, including the establishment of a vocational education and training program. He stressed that terrorism activities are closely related to religious extremism, which was once rampant in Xinjiang. "When I visited the Xinjiang vocational education and training centers, some students told me that they used to deny and reject all secular things. (They) refused to go to school, read books, watch TV, and even did not want to use the roads built by the government because they were considered as 'non-Halal'," he said. The vocational education and training program is established to help those influenced by extremism return to normal life through education. As a preventive measure, it is another major contribution that China has made to international counter-terrorism, Le said. "Practice has proved that the de-extremization measures adopted in Xinjiang are effective," he added. POVERTY ALLEVIATION On human rights and development, Le said in the last 40 years China has taken 740 million people out of poverty, and last year, it took another 13.8 million poor people out of poverty. China aims to lift all citizens out of poverty by 2020, Le added. "China's poverty reduction achievements are the best human rights stories," he concluded. The Chinese official told reporters that this year marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, and China's human rights situation has achieved "historic, comprehensive and unprecedented progresses" in the past 70 years. China has built the world's largest education system, medical system, social security system and grassroots democracy, he said, adding that according to international authoritative polls, China is one of the safest, most dynamic countries in the world with one of the highest level of satisfaction among the people. "China has always adhered to a people-centered approach in the promotion of the people's human rights, and we will continue to set the longings of the Chinese people for a better life as our goal for the future," Le said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 14:22:48|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- In 1999, Gan Erke, a Huangshan-based lacquerware artist shut down his antique store and opened a lacquerware studio. "I wanted to stay focused and make the finest lacquerware in the world," Gan told Xinhua. Huangshan in east China's Anhui Province, with its ancient name Huizhou, has been known for its craftsmanship of lacquerware for centuries. According to Gan, China was the first country in the world to use lacquer as a decoration. Lacquerware is renowned for its durability, varied appearances and rich colors. Along with ceramics and embroidery, it is one of the three signature elements of oriental art. However, two decades ago, Japanese lacquerware was better regarded, and modern industrialized mass production displaced China's traditional crafts industries and some lacquer-decorating techniques were lost. Gan's studio demanded continuous cash flow in the initial stage and it was time-consuming to research and make high-quality lacquerware. "I told myself that I wouldn't blindly pursue economic interests, I simply wanted to pursue Chinese arts." Eventually, Gan made it. He has both rediscovered various old techniques and explored new ones. Two of Gan's best-known lacquerware techniques are Tuiguang-lacquer and Xipi-lacquer. Tuiguang-lacquer is a technique that repeatedly applies and polishes lacquer onto semi-finished works. Using his fingers and palms to polish requires extensive experience to balance the speed and temperature to exhibit an extremely rich and shiny color. To make Xipi-lacquer, Gan adds many layers of different colored lacquer according to a pattern and then polishes them into a single smooth surface. Sometimes to generate the best color, certain natural minerals or even precious metals are added into the lacquer, such as coral and gold. His works were collected by the Palace Museum in 2011. In 2017, the British Museum showcased his lacquerware. Last December, an Australian dropped by to visit Gan's studio in Huangshan, telling the artist that he was attracted by the beauty of the lacquerware at the British Museum and wanted to meet him in person. In his 60s, Gan is now a representative inheritor of China's national intangible cultural heritage, and he still works hard in his lacquerware studio. "Without endeavors for generations, we cannot become better." "Confidence in the Chinese culture is our foundation," he said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 14:22:49|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close WASHINGTON, March 15 (Xinhua) -- U.S. State Department said here on Friday that an exhibition showing the lives of the empresses of China's Qing Dynasty will be on view later this month in Washington. "Empresses of China's Forbidden City, 1644-1912" will be open for media preview at the Smithsonian's Freer|Sackler institution on March 28, prior to its public opening two days later, according to an email sent to journalists by the Washington Foreign Press Center under the U.S. State Department. The show, the largest in 10 years for the U.S. museum of Asian art, "reveals the untold stories of Qing Dynasty empresses through nearly 135 objects made for, by, and about them," the email read. "Of the some two dozen empresses from the period, the exhibition focuses on five who helped shape the dynasty and left a lasting impact and legacy," the State Department noted, "for the time, these women held power and the exhibition explores their influence through religion, art, and politics." In a separate statement issued earlier on March 5, the Freer|Sackler said that the "major international exhibition, the largest at the Freer|Sackler in more than a decade, explores empresses' lives during the emperor-centric Qing dynasty." "Despite the empresses' accomplishments and status, they are largely missing from Qing court history," it said. "Through imperial portraits, narrative paintings, furnishings, attire (jewelry and costume) and religious art, the exhibition reveals and fills in the little-known details about the world of these women and how they were able to influence court history in many spheres, including religion, art and politics." It added that the objects to be on display would enable visitors to "look behind the walls of the Forbidden City" and bring these imperial women "out of the silence that history imposed upon them." The majority of the objects on display, including rare treasures that have never been on view in the United States, come from the Palace Museum in Beijing, also known as the Forbidden City, according to the Freer|Sackler. As part of the celebration of the 40th anniversary of the establishment of U.S.-China diplomatic relations, the exhibition, which will continue till June 23, is organized by three institutions of the two nations, namely, the Freer|Sackler, the Palace Museum in China and the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Massachusetts. David Skorton, head of the U.S. Smithsonian Institution, said in a previous interview with Xinhua that "our Smithsonian continues to be very active in China." "You'll be very impressed about how many things that we have been doing and are doing right now and there are more things being planned," he said. "We continue to be very interested in working with Chinese colleagues and in doing studies together where we can do partnerships together." "Cultural institutions continue to want to work together," he said, adding that he remains optimistic about the cultural and people-to-people exchanges between China and the United States in the future. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 14:52:52|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close GUANGZHOU, March 16 (Xinhua) -- On Feb. 17, a taxi driver in Guangzhou, capital of south China's Guangdong Province, picked up a little girl roaming on the street whose picture he just saw in a mobile push message. The push message was a search notice posted on Toutiao, a popular news feed mobile app in China that runs a missing persons finder service on mobile networks. It helped bring the missing girl back to her parents. Working with Toutiao, Guangzhou police have helped 174 missing persons reunite with their families within 16 months by posting relevant information of the missing persons and where they went missing, as well as precisely pushing search notices to Toutiao users. Toutiao users within a 5-10 km radius of the relevant area will receive a pop-up window on their phones. Pictures and physical features of the missing appear in the message, with the consent of family. Guangzhou citizens are also encouraged to assist the police in looking for special groups of missing people, such as the elderly, children, and those with mental and learning difficulties. Launched in February 2016, the missing persons service has cooperated with more than 90 public security authorities around the country and helped reunite over 700 separated families. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 15:02:55|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Palace Museum Friday signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Chinese technology firm Huawei on digital construction of the museum. The museum and Huawei will work together on 5G application, building a "smart museum" and holding artificial intelligence (AI) contests, according to the agreement. Advanced technology can be used for cultural relics protection and research, and provide more quality services and digital experiences for an increasing audience both on site and online. "With the help of technology, people will be able to 'visit' the Palace Museum at any place in the world," said museum director Shan Jixiang. "On-site visitors can enjoy faster online services and high-definition videos introducing ancient architecture and cultural relics." AI technology will also play a part in cultural relic appraisal and restoration as well as in public education, Shan added. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 15:23:01|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Porsche, the high-end brand of German automaker Volkswagen, will recall more than 50,000 vehicles sold in the Chinese market because of possible safety hazards. Staring March 25, Porsche's China sales company will recall 15,942 cars in China, including 718 Cayman and 718 Boxster models manufactured between March 2, 2016 and Feb. 14 this year, according to the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR). The company has submitted its recall plan to the SAMR. A frontal collision could make the lower longitudinal crash beam penetrate the bulkhead wall, leading to a higher risk of the fuel tanks being damaged and causing fire as a result of fuel leakage, the company said. The company will repair the affected cars free of charge. The company also announced a recall of 34,290 Panamera and Cayenne models to update their instrument cluster software. The affected vehicles were made between Sept. 8, 2016 and June 27, 2018. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 15:28:02|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close HAIKOU, March 16 (Xinhua) -- A direct air route, linking Haikou, capital of south China's island province of Hainan, and Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city, was launched on Friday. The route is operated by Kazakhstan's SCAT Airlines and a round trip is scheduled once a week. A Boeing 757-200 aircraft departed from Almaty at 9 p.m. local time on Thursday and arrived at Haikou Meilan International Airport at around 4 a.m. on Friday. The return flight is scheduled to leave Hainan at 5:30 a.m. and will arrive in Almaty at 1 p.m. Hainan Province currently has 81 international air routes and aims to increase the figure to 100 by 2020. China plans to build Hainan into an international tourism and consumption center by 2025 and a globally influential tourism and consumption destination by 2035. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 15:38:04|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close QALA-E-NAW, Afghanistan, March 16 (Xinhua) -- More than 50 militants have been killed and scores of others injured in Bala Murghab district of Afghanistan's western Badghis province over the past 24 hours, said a statement released by the army on Saturday. Government forces in the crackdown against militants, according to the statement, have used aircraft and artillery since Friday and so far 51 armed insurgents had been killed. The statement didn't provide more details and Taliban militants haven't commented yet. Meanwhile, local news agency Pajhwok reported that the Taliban had tightened the noose around Bala Murghab district. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 15:48:06|Editor: Lu Hui Video Player Close DOHA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China's Reform and Opening-Up policy offers the world with new opportunities for achieving development and economic stability, a Qatari official told Xinhua in a recent interview. During the past four decades since the policy was first introduced, Chinese economy has achieved enormous growth, said Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani, chairman of Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He noted that China's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) increased from 305 billion U.S. dollars to 12.7 trillion dollars between 1980 and 2017. China's Reform and Opening-Up policy has provided the world with new opportunities of development and economic stability, as more than 100 states and international organizations are participating in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) proposed by China, Sheikh Khalifa said. China's foreign exchange reserves, manufacturing capabilities and volume of global trade have helped it become the second largest economy in the world, only after the United States, he noted. The official said Qatar is seriously working on enhancing its relations with China in all fields and sectors, stressing that Doha has been in the forefront of countries in supporting and taking part actively in the BRI, which is viewed as a platform for building a bright future for China-Qatar ties. Qatar's establishment of the first center for clearing transactions in Chinese yuan has given yet another momentum for the bilateral relations, Sheikh Khalifa said. He believed that Qatar and China are able to boost bilateral cooperation in many economic and trade sectors, as China is an important trade partner for Qatar. Sheikh Khalifa predicted a brighter future for bilateral energy cooperation, citing that Qatar is one of the largest exporters of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to China, which is a major LNG importer. The Qatari Chamber of Commerce and Industry has hosted many Chinese trade delegations in order to exchange views on advancing joint cooperation and building active partnerships, as Qatari companies are eager to benefit from Chinese expertise, he added. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 15:58:07|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close TUNIS, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Tunisia strongly condemns terror attack targeting two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch, the Tunisian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement Friday night. "Tunisia expresses its condolences to the families of the victims and wish a full and prompt recovery to those who were injured," it said. This heinous crime proves that terrorism has no color, no religion, no moral or geographical boundaries, it added. Tunisian Foreign Minister Khemaies Jhinaoui called on the international community to continue the consolidation and coordination to combat all forms of extremism, terrorism and intolerance. At least 49 people were killed and 48 others injured in the terror attacks on two mosques in Christchurch in New Zealand on Friday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 15:58:07|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close YAOUNDE, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Cameroon's electoral body Elections Cameroon (ELECAM) attempted to register at least 10 million voters before the legislative and municipal elections in September, said ELECAM Chairman Enow Abrams Egbe. During the first annual meeting of the body, Egbe called on all eligible voters in the country to "exercise the right to vote and to participate in the choice of the country's leaders." Voter registration throughout Cameroon and in the country's diplomatic representations abroad began in early January. Cameroon will hold at least two elections, including legislative and municipal elections scheduled for September, according to the electoral calendar. Regional elections could also be held in the year. According to ELECAM statistics, about 6.67 million people were registered in the presidential election in October last year, including 19,420 abroad, with a turnout of 53.85 percent. "We hope that calm and peace will return to facilitate the registration process," said ELECAM's Director General Erik Essousse. Cameroon is facing growing insecurity in its two anglophone regions of Northwest and Southwest, where separatists want to create a new nation called "Ambazonia." Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 15:58:07|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close Delegates attend the 34th meeting of the Council of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on March 15, 2019. The SCO member states will hold a joint anti-terrorism exercise "Sary-Arka-Antiterror 2019," the Council said on Friday during its 34th meeting. Delegations of the competent authorities of India, Kazakhstan, China, the Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and the RATS Executive Committee attended the meeting. (Xinhua/Cai Guodong) TASHKENT, March 15 (Xinhua) -- The Shanghai Cooperation Organization's (SCO) member states will hold a joint anti-terrorism exercise "Sary-Arka-Antiterror 2019," the Council of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) of the SCO said on Friday. The decision to hold a joint exercise was announced during the 34th meeting of the RATS council held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Delegations of the competent authorities of India, Kazakhstan, China, the Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and the RATS Executive Committee attended the meeting. Chaired by Russia, the meeting also declared plans to hold the first stage of the joint border operation "Solidarity 2019-2021," the 7th meeting of the heads of the border services, and training workshops on identifying and preventing the use of the Internet for terrorist, separatist and extremist purposes. RATS is a permanent organ of the SCO which serves to promote cooperation of member states against the three evils of terrorism, separatism and extremism. It is headquartered in Tashkent. The next meeting of the Council of the RATS SCO is scheduled to be held in Russia in September 2019. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 16:13:20|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close Protestors are seen during a youth climate strike in Ljubljana, Slovenia, on March 15, 2019. Around 5,000 students on Friday protested against inaction on climate change in Ljubljana, as part of a global youth climate strike. (Xinhua/Luka Dakskobler) Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 16:08:08|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close RIO DE JANEIRO, March 15 (Xinhua) -- The Brazilian government released an official statement on Friday condemning the terrorist attacks on two New Zealand mosques that had killed at least 49 people earlier in the day. "The Brazilian government strongly condemns the terrorist attacks targeting the Muslim community in Christchurch, New Zealand, which cost the lives of about 49 people and left dozens injured," said the statement. "In expressing condolences to the families of the victims and vows of rapid and full recovery to the wounded, Brazil reaffirms its firm rejection of any and all acts of terrorism, regardless of their motivation, and expresses its solidarity with the people and government of New Zealand," the government said. Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro also made a personal statement through his Twitter account. "Our deepest condolences to the people of New Zealand and to the families and friends of the victims of the terrible massacre in the Christchurch mosques," the president said. "Brazil vehemently condemns this cruelty, and we are in solidary with the New Zealanders in this difficult time." Gunmen staged the terrorist attacks on two mosques packed with worshippers attending Friday prayers in the South Island city, killing 49 people and injuring many others. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 16:18:11|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close UNITED NATIONS, March 15 (Xinhua) -- United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday asked warring parties in Syria to uphold the cease-fire arrangement in the country's northwestern city of Idlib. "I am extremely concerned about reported increased military operations in the last few weeks," Guterres said in a statement. "Counter-terrorism operations cannot override responsibilities to protect civilians. A cease-fire in Idlib is a necessary step to pave the way for a nationwide cease-fire." Innocent civilians, the majority of them women and children, have paid the highest price in this conflict because of the blatant disregard for international humanitarian and human rights laws, he said. Strengthened international support is urgently required if the parties to the conflict move toward finding a political solution that meets the legitimate aspirations of all Syrians, said the UN chief. "It is a moral obligation and a political imperative for the international community to support Syrians to unite around a vision for their common future that protects civilians, alleviates suffering, prevents further instability, addresses the root causes of the conflict and forges, at long last, a credible negotiated solution," said Guterres. Idlib has been in a state of lawlessness and the humanitarian situation across the country remains dire. Around 11.7 million people are in need of protection and assistance, according to UN statistics. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 16:23:13|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close UNITED NATIONS, March 16 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy on Friday criticized remarks made by a U.S. representative against the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as "contrary to the facts and fraught with prejudice." The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) failed to agree on a regular renewal of the mandate of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), while agreeing to adopt "a technical roll-over" of the mandate on Friday, due to differences over the BRI, mention of which had been in previous Afghanistan resolutions. "One member had persistently rejected a consensus of the Security Council that had been there for years, and turned down constructive proposals put forward by other members. As a result, the atmosphere for consultations was poisoned," said Wu Haitao, charge d'affaires of China's Permanent Mission to the United Nations. Wu made the remarks after Jonathan Cohen, acting U.S. permanent representative to the United Nations, accused China of "using Security Council resolutions as a platform for inappropriately promoting self-serving initiatives." In response, Wu said that the BRI has been widely welcomed by the international community. In the six years since the initiative was put forward, 123 countries and 29 international organizations have signed cooperation agreements to jointly develop the initiative. The participants have implemented cooperation projects, promoted connectivity and benefited from the development opportunities the initiative offers, he said. The BRI is also conducive to Afghanistan's reconstruction and development, Wu said. Within this framework, China and Afghanistan have continued to strengthen pragmatic cooperation in various fields, promoting socio-economic development in Afghanistan and helping with the country's integration into regional development. China and Afghanistan are implementing a memorandum of understanding on an initiative to promote cooperation in trade, transportation, energy, health, and telecommunications, among other fields, he said. In developing the initiative, China and other countries have always followed market rules and international norms, and have emphasized sustainable development, Wu said, adding that the BRI has always been open, inclusive and transparent. The initiative is aimed at achieving common development and prosperity, and has nothing to do with geopolitics. All countries are welcome to participate in the initiative and the opportunities it offers, he said. Wu said China supports UNAMA in continuing to implement its mandate to provide assistance to Afghanistan. China sincerely hopes that lasting peace and long-term development can be achieved in Afghanistan, which is not only in the vital interests of Afghanistan's people, but is also of critical importance to security, stability, development and prosperity in the region. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 16:43:20|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang met the press at the Great Hall of the People after the conclusion of the second session of the 13th National People's Congress on March 15, 2019. Li met with Chinese and foreign reporters and answered their questions at the invitation of Spokesperson Zhang Yesui. The press conference, held at the Golden Hall on the third floor of the Great Hall of the People, lasted for about 150 minutes and was attended by over 1,200 Chinese and foreign journalists. Please see the attachment for the full transcript of questions and answers. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 17:08:24|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close Noelle Xie (L), a Chinese-born humanitarian and art curator, delivers a speech after she was conferred the insignia of Chevalier of the Legion of Honor by French Ambassador to the United Nations (UN) Francois Delattre in New York, the United States, March 15, 2019. Established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte, the Legion of Honor is the highest honor awarded by the French government to those who made outstanding contributions to France. Xie received the honor for her exemplary contribution to promoting the French language and culture worldwide. (Xinhua/Li Muzi) NEW YORK, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Noelle Xie, a Chinese-born humanitarian and art curator, on Friday was conferred the insignia of Chevalier of the Legion of Honor for her exemplary contribution to promoting the French language and culture worldwide. Xie received the French national order from President Emmanuel Macron in December 2018. At the ceremony Friday evening, the insignia was formally pinned to the left side of Xie's chest amid rounds of applause by French Ambassador to the United Nations (UN) Francois Delattre. After her decoration, Xie delivered her acceptance speech both in French and English, saying she was receiving "this high distinction and the prestigious award with tremendous honor and humility." Looking at the medal, Xie, a U.S. citizen, reflected on her journey from Shanghai, Paris, Zambia, Zimbabwe, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to New York. "It has been challenging and rewarding. I enjoyed the adventures along the way, as I carried my Chinese origin, French education, American optimism and African sunshine (with me)." Delattre, France's permanent representative to the United Nations, highlighted in his speech Xie's major contributions to the United Nations, including her efforts in achieving the sustainable development goals and multilateralism and the fight against AIDS, as well as her contribution to the contemporary art world and promoting the French language and culture. After graduating from the Pantheon-Sorbonne University, she started her career at the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund and the World Health Organization in New York, Geneva and across Africa. She is now a global advocate for sustainable development and curator of contemporary art, working with the United Nations, the U.S. Department of State and the American Federation of Arts. Fluent in English, French and Chinese, Xie mobilizes resources to organize world forums, leadership programs and cultural events to strengthen public-private partnerships and cross-sector collaboration. Friday's ceremony took place at the Payne Whitney Mansion in New York, home to the Cultural Services of the French Embassy in the United States. Established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte, the Legion of Honor is the highest honor awarded by the French government to those who made outstanding contributions to France. Its five classes are Chevalier (knight), Officier (officer), Commandeur (commander), Grand officier (grand officer) and Grand-croix (grand cross). Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 17:18:26|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Consulate General in Christchurch said here on Saturday that it confirmed there was no casualty of Chinese citizen in the mosque attacks which have claimed at least 49 lives in the New Zealand city. The Chinese Consulate General sent staff to attend a meeting of the families of the victims on 5:00 p.m. Saturday local time, and they checked with and reassured by the New Zealand authorities that no Chinese citizen was killed or injured in the terror attacks in the two mosques here on Friday afternoon. Chinese Consul General Wang Zhijian told Xinhua that emergence response has been activated in the Consulate General. The Consulate General is working with local police to further check if there is any Chinese citizen caught in the attacks, the Consul General said. The Chinese community in New Zealand's Christchurch has stood out following Friday's attacks on two mosques, condemning terrorism and expressing their support for the victims by donating money. Although there was no Chinese casualty in the attacks, the Chinese community is closely following the situation and cares about all victims, Canton Chamber of Commerce in New Zealand, an organization of local Chinese merchants, said in a statement Saturday. "No racism, no violence, no terrorism of any form!" said the statement. The chamber has urged all its members to donate money for the victims and is in contact with the Consulate General of China in Christchurch to voice support and condolences for the victims on behalf of all Chinese in the city, said the statement. The University of Canterbury Chinese Students & Scholars Society also expressed shock and regret over the attacks on Saturday, saying the atrocities have destroyed many people's lives and aroused deep anger. "However, what they (the perpetrators) cannot destroy is our will," the society said in a statement. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 18:03:37|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Uber driver Rogelio Junior in New Zealand's city of Christchurch Saturday described his narrow escape when he was dropping off a customer at Linwood Masjid Mosque as "very very lucky." He told Xinhua that he parked in front of the mosque where the shooting rampage was happening. Hearing gunshots, he drove off instantly. It was revealed that a 28-year-old Australian man, Brenton Tarrant, conducted terrorist attacks targeting mosques in Christchurch and later was arrested by New Zealand Police. At least 49 people were killed and 48 are hospitalized now. The news of arrest fails to comfort local residents because the puzzle of how the shooter got all those guns is haunting local residents. "Imagine every time he shoots a shotgun, he drops it off and picks another gun, and shoots again," the Uber driver said with the horrifying images reappeared in his mind's eye. In the wake of Friday's attack, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern promised in the press conference that gun laws would be changed in New Zealand, with a mooted ban on semi-automatic weapons. She said Brenton Tarrant had legally owned five guns and allegedly used two semi-automatic weapons, two shotguns and a lever-action firearm to conduct the attacks. Tarrant had a "category A" gun license that was legally obtained in November 2017. Ardern revealed the preliminary evidence of modification in certain weapons. The ability to modify firearms has long been the Achilles' heel in New Zealand's firearm laws, allowing license-holders to legally hold weapons akin to those used in the military. Tarrant was said to have showed up on an Otago rifle club and practiced a military-style weapon shooting. "While work is being done as to the chain of events that led to both the holding of this gun licence and the possession of these weapons, I can tell you one thing right now. Our gun laws will change," Ardern said. "We need to look at the modification of guns that can lead them to become essentially the kind of weapons that were used in this terrorist attack." Earlier in March, frontline police in New Zealand's Canterbury region were asked to carry guns temporarily in response to the surge of gang related shootouts in the city. Police showed 17 times a firearm was presented at a police officer in 2017 and there were four incidents of officers being shot at. The police firearm routine was revoked days before the Christchurch mosque shootings. Rogelio, the Uber driver, said the number of guns found in the Tarrant's car was still inexplicable. As an Asian immigrant, Rogelio felt he was threatened by the allegedly anti-immigration attacks. "I was really lucky," he said, "When the shooter sees me, he probably takes no second to shoot me." Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 18:18:40|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close MEXICO CITY, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Mexico will seek to attract Chinese tourists with the country's cultural heritage, Mexico's Tourism Minister Miguel Torruco said Friday. "This year, 124 million Chinese people are going out to visit other countries," Torruco said at a press conference, while giving details on the country's 2020 Tianguis Turistico, an annual international tourist fair. "This market niche is what we are going to explore so they can enjoy our great heritage," he said. According to the official, Chinese tourists are interested in tourist attractions such as the jungle and colonial towns, like those found in the states of Yucatan, Campeche, Chiapas, and Oaxaca, all of which are in the southeast of the country. They are especially interested in pre-Hispanic cultures like the Maya and the Olmecs. "We estimate that this year we will visit China to do promotions with the ministers of tourism from the states that bring together these preferences," he said. According to the latest figures from the Mexican government, in 2017 the number of Chinese tourists increased by 16 percent to around 100,000. In 2019, the Tianguis Turistico will run from April 7-10 in the popular resort town of Acapulco, located in the state of Guerrero on the Pacific coast. For this year's edition, 900 potential business partners from 40 countries, including China, and 600 exhibitors from all over Mexico, are expected to attend. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 18:28:43|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close ISLAMABAD, March 16 (Xinhua) -- At least four Pakistanis have reportedly been killed and nine others are still missing after the terrorist attacks at two mosques in Christchurch city of New Zealand, which killed 49 people and injured 48 others, local media and officials said Saturday afternoon. Local media quoted sources from overseas Pakistanis in Christchurch as saying that four Pakistani nationals have succumbed to their injuries during treatment in hospitals. The killed people include Naeem Rashid and his young son Talha Naeem who migrated to New Zealand from Pakistan's northwest city of Abbottabad. Rashid was injured seriously in the attack when he attempted to overpower the shooter after his son was shot dead in front of him, said local news channel Dunya. On Saturday, the spokesperson of Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mohammad Faisal released a list of nine Pakistanis who are missing after the attacks. "Our mission in New Zealand is trying to ascertain further details," said the spokesman, adding that a Pakistani national is in critical condition in a hospital. Pakistan's Foreign Ministry has also established a crises management cell in Islamabad to seek updates from New Zealand and coordinate with the affected Pakistani families. According to local media reports, over 5,000 overseas Pakistanis are living in New Zealand. Pakistan strongly condemned the attacks on Friday and termed them as a heinous assault on the values of freedom of conscience and association, common to all mankind. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 18:38:45|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese top legislator Li Zhanshu has thanked journalists covering the annual session of the national legislature. Li, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), praised reporters for their outstanding and innovative coverage of the second session of the 13th NPC while greeting journalists from major state media at the Great Hall of the People on Thursday. Li visited the news center set up by the Xinhua News Agency, watching integrated media products and those featuring artificial intelligence technology. He also talked with journalists from other state media outlets including the People's Daily, China Media Group and China Daily. Li called on the journalists to continue working hard to tell China's stories well, tell the NPC stories well and demonstrate the superiority, features and efficiency of the country's fundamental political system. The session was held from March 5 to 15. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 18:48:49|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close JALALABAD, Afghanistan, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Three militants affiliated with the Islamic State (IS) were killed after military aircraft pounded its hideout in Khogiani district of eastern Afghanistan's Nangarhar province on Friday, said an army statement released here on Saturday. The sorties, according to the statement, conducted on a tip-off in Waziro Tangi area of the restive district, also destroyed the militants' hideout and the arms and ammunitions kept inside. Militants loyal to the IS group, that are operating in parts Nangarhar province over the past nearly four years, are yet to make comment. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 18:58:53|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close CAIRO, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Egyptian Immigration Ministry confirmed in a statement on Saturday that four Egyptians were killed in the terrorist attacks on two New Zealand mosques in Friday. The Ministry of Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates' Affairs contacted the Egyptian Embassy in New Zealand on Saturday to check on the Egyptians living there following the attacks that left at least 49 dead and more than 40 others injured. According to the statement, Egyptian Ambassador to New Zealand Tarek el-Wassimy told Immigration Minister Nabila Makram that the embassy assigned four employees to accompany and assist the family of each of the four Egyptian victims. "Their bodies are scheduled to be transferred back to Egypt and buried on Tuesday," said the statement. The Egyptian ambassador said that the number of wounded Egyptians hasn't yet been confirmed, as the authorities in New Zealand focused on rescuing them in the first place regardless of their nationalities. A 28-year-old Australian is currently facing charges of carrying out Friday's terror attacks that have been met by worldwide rejection and condemnation. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 19:03:54|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close HOHHOT, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China has imported a herd of 33 more reindeer from the Netherlands to boost the number of the species in the country, authorities said Saturday. The reindeer arrived in Beijing on Thursday and will be shipped to a breeding base in Aoluguya township in the city of Genhe in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region after a quarantine period, according to the city's forestry bureau. The bureau said the herd was the third batch of reindeer imported from the Netherlands to Genhe, raising the total number to 178. In Aoluguya, ethnic Ewenki herders, known as "the last hunting tribe in China," still use reindeer as an important means of transportation. But the population of the species has dropped significantly in recent years due to inbreeding. In 2017, China reached an agreement with the Netherlands on reindeer importation. The first batch of imported reindeer, which arrived in Genhe later that year, has adapted to the local environment and gave birth to five babies with the local reindeer last April, according to the city's forestry bureau. The bureau said it would work with universities and institutes to establish an animal hospital focusing on reindeer and accelerate the construction of China's largest reindeer breeding center. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 19:13:56|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close JAKARTA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Four people sustained wounds as a helicopter went down in Tasikmalaya district of Indonesia's West Java province Saturday afternoon, the rescue agency said. The chopper with registration number BO-105 PK EAH crashed at about 2:30 p.m. Jakarta time in Jayaratu village, head of communication for media of national search and rescue office Yusuf Latief told Xinhua over the phone. "The pilot suffers from minor injury, but three other people on board, including a co-pilot and two passengers have serious wounds. No one was killed in the incident," said Latief. All victims have been rushed to a nearby hospital, he cited. The helicopter, which is operated by PT Air transport Service, was en route from Kawalu sub-district to Wanaraja sub-district in the province. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 19:34:00|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close DUBLIN, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The number of the applications for Irish passports has witnessed a sharp increase since this year, reported local media RTE on Saturday. The report, quoting the Irish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Simon Coveney, said that over 230,000 applications for Irish passports had been received to date this year. The figure represented a 30 percent increase over the same period last year, said Simon Coveney. The number of applications for Irish passports has seen a consistent rise since Britain voted to leave the European Union (EU) in 2016. Last year a record number of 860,000 Irish passports were issued, said the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, adding that more than 70 percent of the 2018 applications came from those who live and work in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Last month the passport division of the Irish embassy in London issued a warning saying that staffing levels are not sufficient to meet the rising number of applications ahead of Brexit. Simon Coveney said that "Given the demand we are experiencing, significant extra resources have been given to the passport service including hundreds of extra staff for processing and customer service." Britian was scheduled to leave the EU on March 29, 2019. However, the Brexit date was delayed following a vote in the House of Commons of the British parliament on Thursday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 19:34:01|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close HARARE, March 16 (Xinhua) -- At least 24 people have been confirmed dead as Cyclone Idai wreaks havoc in southeastern Zimbabwe, the government has said. The Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services said in a tweet Saturday that the deaths were mainly in Chimanimani district. Two school pupils were among the dead while a school has been closed following a fatal landslide Friday evening. The military is assisting with rescue efforts but is being slowed down by bad roads. Many rivers have burst their banks and bridges have been swept away in the floods. A UN spokesman said on Thursday that Cyclone Idai has claimed at least 122 lives and affected more than 1 million people in Malawi and Mozambique. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 20:24:12|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close SRINAGAR, Indian-controlled Kashmir, March 16 (Xinhua) -- At least 11 people were killed and four others injured Saturday after a vehicle carrying them skidded off a mountainous road and fell into gorge in Indian-controlled Kashmir, police said. The accident took place in Rajgarh area of Ramban district, 177 km south of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir. "Eleven people including five children were killed and four others injured after a vehicle carrying them fell into gorge at power house Rajgarh road here today," senior superintendent of police Ramban, Anita Sharma told Xinhua. Police officials have registered a case and ordered investigations to ascertain the reason behind the deadly accident. Deadly road accidents are common in India-controlled Kashmir due to overloading, bad condition of roads and reckless driving. Officials say on an average over 400 deaths take place everyday in India due to road accidents. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 20:44:15|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close ULAN BATOR, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Mongolian police have arrested 88 people linked to 29 drug-related crimes in the first two months of this year, local media reported on Saturday, citing the country's National Police Agency (NPA). "Since 2015, Mongolia has become one of the user countries of drugs. The number of drug-related crimes has continued to increase," said Munkhtur Munkhshur, spokesperson of the NPA. "A total of 29 drug-related crimes have been registered in Mongolia in the first two months of 2019," Munkhshur said, noting that the figure is almost same to the number of this type of crimes registered in the first half of 2018. A lack of knowledge about drugs, curiosity, attempting to make easy money and weak law are the main factors for the growth of drug-related crimes, she said. According to Mongolian law, the person who is found guilty of trafficking drugs will be punished by imprisonment of at least two years. Life sentence and death penalty do not exist in the Mongolian drug law. Photo shows the closing ceremony of the fourth session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA4) in Nairobi, Kenya, March 15, 2019. (Xinhua/Zhang Yu) NAIROBI, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China will be the global host of the World Environment Day which will take place on June 5 with the main event being held in Hangzhou, capital city of Zhejiang Province, officials said on Friday. Chinese delegation and UN Environment Programme (UNEP) made the announcement on the sidelines of the UN Environment Assembly in Nairobi. "China will be a great global host of 2019's World Environment Day celebrations. The country has demonstrated tremendous leadership on tackling air pollution domestically. It can now help spur the world to greater action," said Joyce Msuya, acting executive director of UNEP. This year's World Environment Day, titled "air pollution", seeks to rally governments, industries and communities toward the support for policies, legislations and innovations that can boost air quality. Msuya acknowledged that air pollution is a global challenge but hailed China's bold actions to contain it amid rapid industrial progress. "China will now be leading the push and stimulating global action to save millions of lives," said Msuya. A report launched during the UN Environment Assembly revealed that China's capital Beijing has made sound progress in reduction of air pollution in the last two decades. The report, titled "Review of 20 Years' Air Pollution Control in Beijing," said the city has leveraged on clean technologies, strong regulatory tools and public awareness to boost air quality. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 22:09:29|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close SOFIA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China's Jiangxi Province and Bulgaria's Sofia Region signed here on Saturday a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Educational Cooperation, the Sofia Region said in a press release on its website. The memorandum aims to encourage and support respective educational departments as well as colleges and universities to conduct exchanges and cooperation. "In order to train talents needed in bilateral cooperation so as to enhance mutual understanding and promote friendly exchanges and cooperation, Jiangxi Province plans to offer scholarship of Jiangxi Provincial Government to five students of Sofia Region in the second half of 2019," the memorandum said. "The specific matters concerning five students from Sofia Region coming to Jiangxi to study will be facilitated and supported by departments of foreign affairs and education of the two sides," it said. The memorandum was also signed with a view of promoting bilateral friendly exchanges and cooperation so as to further push forward the consolidation and development of sister province/region relationship, it said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 22:14:31|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close JUBA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- South Sudan's recently signed revitalized peace agreement is on course and that the country needs regional support to help achieve key outstanding issues like cantonment and unification of the army, officials said on Saturday. Mawien Makol Ariik, foreign affairs ministry spokesman said that the positive progress so far achieved on peace won't be derailed by a few doubters who think the warring parties will return to war, citing delays in speeding up creation of cantonment sites and unification of the army. "There are people out there who don't want South Sudan to succeed in this peace but the government is determined to ensure peace is implemented," he told Xinhua in Juba. Ariik's remarks came barely a week after global policy group, the International Crisis Group (ICG), said disagreements between the government and main rebel group, the Sudan People's Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) under Riek Machar, on key outstanding issues would fail the peace deal signed in September 2018 in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa. According to the think tank, the peace deal risks collapsing if the warring parties don't assemble, screen and unify their armies. However, Ariik said the peace deal is moving on the right track despite delays due to lack of funding. "The time is finished; it's only 60 days left for the new government to be in place. We still have issues of cantonment although now we have pushed very hard and we are doing well," said Ariik. He said regional support is very crucial to enable the peace partners move forward with peace implementation. "We are asking friendly countries to still come up and help us with support so that we unify the army, complete cantonment, we do security arrangements and we will be able to complete what we need to complete before we set up the government," he added. He also said they are not opposed to prosecution of individuals allegedly indicted by the UN for committing war crimes during the conflict, but that peace should be prioritized before justice is done. The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan recently said it has listed 23 individuals who could face serious crimes related to violations committed during the five-year-long conflict. It said these individuals along with previously identified perpetrators could face justice in courts around the world, not just in South Sudan. South Sudan descended into civil war in late 2013, and the conflict has created one of the fastest growing refugee crises in the world. A peace agreement signed in 2015 to end the violence was again violated in July 2016 when the rival factions resumed fighting in the capital Juba, forcing Machar to flee into exile. The United Nations estimates that about four million South Sudanese have been displaced internally and externally. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 22:24:33|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close ANKARA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Turkey rejected the European Parliament's (EP) vote calling for a suspension of European Union's accession process with Ankara, a move which came at a time when relations were just picking up after a troublesome period. The EP voted on Wednesday a report that calls on the European Commission and member states to formally suspend accession negotiations with Turkey, citing a serious deterioration of human rights, freedoms, and rule of law in the country. The decision is mostly symbolic as Turkey's 15-year EU accession bid has long been stalled because of some member nations' hostility, even before Ankara's crackdown in the wake of the failed coup attempt in 2016, said the EP report. The Turkish Foreign Ministry rejected the European Parliament vote as "one-sided and baseless" shortly after the vote. "European Union membership remains our strategic goal," the ministry said in a statement, calling on the bloc to hold constructive talks and modernize the Custom Union. During Wednesday's vote, European lawmakers also recognized Turkey's role in hosting more than 3.5 million Syrian migrants,calling on European funds to be diverted from the Turkish government to support civil society. Experts said that the troubled Turkey-EU relations have in the past surmounted such difficult times and should continue on the basis of "mutual interest." However, they also underlined the need for Ankara to retake as soon as possible the path of reforms as it did before the launch of accession negotiations in 2004. "Turkey needs the EU and vice versa. The accession negotiations are already stalled so it's largely a symbolic move," Mustafa Nail Alkan, expert on EU affairs at Ankara's Haci Bayram Veli University, told Xinhua. The European Commission will not follow suit and suspend the talks, the longest ever for a candidate country to the 28-nation bloc, he said. "The EU would surely not lose Turkey," Alkan added, citing especially the critical deal inked in 2016 between Ankara and Brussels, which aimed to stem the migrant influx to Europe. This expert emphasized the fact that a new European Parliament will be formed after elections in May and would surely not take the path of severing ties with Ankara altogether. Although non-binding, the EP's vote, a first concerning a candidate country, "displays a very important symbolism with regard to Turkey's troubled journey to the EU," said Serkan Demirtas, a political analyst and journalist. He told Xinhua that it was the same European Parliament which had voted in favor of the launch of full membership talks with Turkey in late 2004. Just a day after the EP's vote, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu attended a Syria summit by the EU, proving that there is important cooperation between Ankara and Brussels. And on Friday, after a four-year hiatus, the Turkey-EU Association Council convened in Brussels, another sign that ties are robust after more than a two-year freeze in relations after the failed coup in Turkey. In Ankara, the mood has not changed towards the EU despite the EP's vote and pro-government media is urging for more Turkish-European partnership. "EP's decision is not a significant turning point in the relations between Turkey and the EU. Steps to strengthen the ties and high-level official contacts are expected to stimulate the relations after the local elections in Turkey on March 31 despite all the harmful efforts," wrote researcher and scholar Talha Kose in an article in Sabah daily. "Turkey and the EU should cooperate and collaborate more, not less, to reduce the political, economic and security-related uncertainties in a time of significant transformation in world politics," he added. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 22:24:34|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close by Xinhua writers Liu Yanan, Gao Lu, Liu Liwei HOUSTON, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The fast-growing U.S. oil and natural gas industry, which is seeking export markets around the globe, are overshadowed as sticky trade tensions have added uncertainty and costs to U.S. businesses. Many U.S. oil and gas companies face higher costs or more difficulties resulting from nearly frozen Chinese purchasing of U.S. crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG), industry insiders, experts and officials said at the energy industry conference CERAWeek held from March 11-15 by the London-based information company IHS Markit. Still, the economic complementarity between the two sides remains strong despite trade policies and tariffs announced in 2018. U.S. COMPANIES UNDER PRESSURE The downstream impacts of trade barriers are very real, said Susan Schwab, professor with the University of Maryland and former U.S. trade representative on Friday at a panel discussion. "We see them in our economy today. Interconnectedness of economy is very real. There's a lot of evidence," Schwab added. The trade tensions between China and the United States have impacted the trade flows of LNG, said Matthew Shruhan, senior analyst on global LNG with international consultancy firm IHS Markit. But these long-term LNG projects last for 20 or 30 plus years. The real impact on date has been a kind of long-term contract in front, said Shruhan on Thursday at another panel discussion. "We haven't seen really any Chinese buyers (who have) contacted the U.S. LNG project developers since the tensions hiked," Shruhan said. "When you take a trade action, you are going to perhaps create leverage for yourself, but you're also likely to be having an impact on your own domestic economic interest," said Schwab. The proposed Alaska LNG exporting project is one of the U.S. LNG projects impacted by the bilateral trade tensions, said an anonymous industry insider. "A lot of projects are looking to sell into China like Alaska LNG project. Cheniere Energy has long-term contracts with Chinese customers and then a lot of the proposed projects also want to sell LNG to China," said the source. In November 2017, the State of Alaska, the AGDC, Sinopec, the Bank of China and the China Investment Corporation signed a five-party agreement to advance Alaska's LNG export project with a total investment of 43 billion U.S. dollars. The AGDC is having conversations with individuals and officials in China, other Asian countries as well as producers and potential investors, said Dunleavy. China is the second largest oil refining market and the United States has the largest unconventional oil coming to the market. So, you would need to find a way for some of the U.S. crude oil to go to China, according to Roger Diwan, vice president of financial services and energy with IHS Markit. "Because of the trade tensions, China has stopped buying U.S. crude oil. If U.S. crude oil output continues to add another 1 million to 1.5 million barrels and the Chinese market is closed, that would create more relocation of crude oil in physical market," said Diwan. COOPERATION NEEDED Schwab said, "Speaking as an economist, trade was bad and trade barriers are bad. You have a situation where trade barriers by definition hurt everyone and consumers, (but) may benefit a few." "Trade policy has a limited role to play when it comes to trade deficits," Schwab added. "If the trade negotiations are not resolved, it not only has a sentiment on demand, but also has a direct impact on the physical flow of crude oil," Diwan said. The U.S. energy industry has been going through revolutionary changes in the past decade, with increasing productions of both crude oil and natural gas, said Hou Qijun, vice president of the China National Petroleum Cooperation. On the other hand, China has become the world's largest oil importer in 2017 and also one of the largest natural gas importers in 2018. "Naturally, a large energy producing country and a large energy consuming country are complimentary," Hou said at the CERAWeek. Hou noted that China's increasing imports of U.S. energy can improve the trade structures of both countries, reduce trade deficit and diversify the energy import source of China. "There may be some challenges now, but economic facts are stubborn. I would expect that sooner or later U.S. LNG exporters and Chinese LNG importers will meet, which would be beneficial for both of the countries and for the global energy markets," Fatih Birol, executive director of the IEA Tuesday said in an interview with Xinhua on the sidelines of the CERAWeek conference. The emerging of the United States as a major energy exporter would bring more options and diversifications for energy importers such as China, said Birol. More LNG exports from the United States would make the hand of gas importers stronger and bring more flexibility to the market, Birol added. "It is becoming more of a buyers' market and it would be a good time for LNG importers such as China," Birol said. The United States would contribute 75 percent of incremental LNG supply in the world in the coming few years, said Birol. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 22:29:34|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close SHENYANG, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Eleven cases involving ivory items sent by post have been investigated and 95 ivory products have been seized this year, said customs authorities in Shenyang, capital of northeast China's Liaoning Province. A recent case found that some inbound mail from Japan declared as books, did not conform to its customs declaration after an X-ray scan. Customs officers later confirmed that there were ivory items in the parcel. Shenyang Customs said a total of 11 cases involving 95 ivory products that weigh over 11 kg have been seized this year. Items include ivory sculptures, accessories, tableware and art. Shenyang Customs has launched a special operation to crack down on ivory smuggling through international mail delivery. China banned all domestic ivory trade at the end of 2017 as part of its commitment to protecting wild animals. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 22:29:34|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China established 17 new national forest parks last year, bringing the total number to 897, according to a National Forestry and Grassland Administration report. The national forest parks covered a total area of 12.87 million hectares at the end of last year. China also had 474 national-level nature reserves. With increased policy support and financial investment, China has achieved remarkable results in wetland protection. Over 70,000 hectares of wetland were restored last year, bringing the country's wetland protection rate to 52.2 percent. Haikou, Harbin, Changde, Changshu, Dongying and Yinchuan were honored to enter the world's first list of international wetland cities in October last year. China also intensified its efforts to crack down on ivory trade, the slaughter of wild animals and other criminal offenses. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 22:34:36|Editor: yan Video Player Close PARIS, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Violence erupted in early hours of a fresh day of social action orchestrated by "Yellow Vest" movement on Saturday, the 18th weekend protest in a row. Wearing the high visibility vests, drivers kept in their cars in a social rebellion against President Emmanuel fiscal roadmap and economic policy. Thousands of demonstrators descended on the Champs Elysees, where 5,000 police officers have been deployed along the 2-km avenue. The first clashes occurred in the capital's main tourist magnet at around 1000 GMT, as a group of troublemakers tried to to break through security cordons. Video footage showed tear gas clouds rose into the air. Tensions flared further around the 19th-century Arc de Triomphe at the top of the Champs Elysees boulevard. Hooded people wearing in black formed barricades and threw stones and other projectiles. Pelted with cobblestones, police fired tear gas and used water cannons to push back the crowd and disperse rioters. Unlike last weeks peaceful protests, Saturday's demonstration called by some most determined "Yellow Vest" protesters as an "ultimatum" to President Macron, was tainted by scenes of disturbance that reminded the images of pre-Christmas violent demonstration which caused shock worldwide. The capital's vibrant avenue turned into battle field. A bank, two newspaper kiosks were in flames in the Champs Elysees avenue, and shop-fronts and a restaurant were smashed, forcing the closure of dozens of metro stations. "Let there be no doubt: they are looking for violence and are there to sow chaos in Paris...," Interior Minister Christophe Castaner tweeted. He pledged to "respond with the utmost firmness to these inadmissible attacks." Paris police headquarters said 64 people had already been arrested. Officials have warned that far-right and far-left groups plan to infiltrate the "Yellow Vest" movement, a popular rebellion against diesel tax hikes and the high cost of living which started on Nov. 17, 2018. According to Castaner, 1,500 troublemakers "have come to attack Paris" and responded to "calls for violence from some leaders of "Yellow Vest". "I gave orders not to let anything pass," the minister told BFMTV news channel, noting that "the movement no longer exists in everyday life ...with only about 200 people mobilized daily." The minister added, by midday, between 7,000 and 8,000 protesters took part in the 18th weekend of action that marks the end of the national consultations with which President Macron tried to head off the social uprising. Last week, the turnout on the streets of Paris and other cities hit its lowest score since it has begun, four months ago. About 28,000 people were counted on March 9 including 3,000 in Paris, the Interior Ministry said. This was down from a week earlier when there were 39,300 protesters out on the streets, 4,000 of which were in the French capital. By the time, the movement has been losing steam after Macron, to help quell discontent, offered concessions worth 10 billion euros (11.32 billion U.S. dollars) to improve purchasing power and launched a series of public debates that he promised will lead to concrete measures. (1 euro = 1.132 U.S. dollar) Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 22:54:40|Editor: yan Video Player Close TIANJIN, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Japanese pharmaceutical company Takeda will invest 110 million yuan (16.4 million U.S. dollars) to extend its plant in Tianjin Municipality, the company has announced. The extention involves building new warehouses, supplementary workshops and public facilities, bringing in advanced equipment, and replanning layouts of laboratories. Takeda expects to promote supply service and optimize logistics costs when the construction work is done, as well as to promote good manufacturing practices (GMP) management. Takeda's Tianjin plant, its only production base in China, will have a total building area of 22,878 square meters after expansion and will be one of the pharma's major production bases globally. Ricardo Marek, president of Growth & Emerging Markets Business Unit at Takeda, said the company is very supportive to China's recent policies that deepen healthcare reform and encourage innovation. More than 10 innovative new medicines will be provided to Chinese patients in the future, he added. Takeda entered the Chinese market in 1994 and has 2,000 employees in the country. The company invested more than 100 million U.S. dollars in China last year in the R&D of new drugs. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 23:14:44|Editor: yan Video Player Close CAPE TOWN, March 16 (Xinhua) -- South Africa must act differently and with speed in land reform as "the patience of our people is wearing thin," Deputy President David Mabuza said on Saturday. Land reform, along with transformation of the economy, is a national imperative and will continue to be implemented with vigor, Mabuza said at the handover ceremony of the settled and finalized land claim to Ubizo Community in Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal Province. The community was handed back a land that was wrongfully dispossessed from its people during the apartheid days, Mabuza said. "We are here to make right those wrongs and to say to our people, here is your land and no more shall you be a slave in the land of your birth. "We say today, this land of your forefathers, is now restored to you and your future generations," said Mabuza. This settled and finalized land claim is essentially in two parts. The first phase consists of the acquisition of land for the Ubizo community, which is a total of 2,547 hectares amounting to 136.4 million rand (about 9.54 million U.S. dollars). The second phase to the value of 1.7 million rand will soon be finalized and restored to the community, according to Mabuza. "We believe that today we finally have the opportunity to right the wrongs of the past by ensuring the restoration of land to its rightful owners," Mabuza said. The South African government has recently accelerated land reform by returning settled and finalized land claims to black communities. In October last year, President Cyril Ramaphosa also handed over a settled and finalized land claim to the people of KwaMkhwanazi, KwaZulu-Natal Province. The land claim settlement is among the first settled and finalized land claims that the government has unlocked to hand over to its rightful beneficiaries. "Those of us in government, must work with speed in implementing interventions that will take us forward," Mabuza said. The government, he said, has resolved to release land that is in the hands of the state in order to advance the objectives of land reform. The government under the leadership of the African National Congress (ANC) will continue to implement the radical economic transformation that will result in equitable, inclusive and cohesive society, said Mabuza. "This is at the core of fostering nation building and social cohesion as envisioned by our founding forebears," Mabuza said. However, he said that as the land reform program is implemented, "we shall do so within the prescripts of our laws." South Africa's land reform, characterized by land expropriation without compensation, has drawn ire from opponents at home and abroad. Opponents argue that the process will drive away white farmers, threaten food security and negatively impact the economy. But the government has repeatedly assured that it will pursue the land reform without destabilizing the agricultural sector, endangering food security in the country, or undermining economic growth and job creation. About 25 years after the end of apartheid, the minority whites still own most of the land in South Africa. The ANC has come under fire for the lack of political will to effectively address the land issue. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 23:19:46|Editor: yan Video Player Close HARARE, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Zimbabwe National Army has been deployed to rescue 197 pupils from St Charles Luwanga School in Chipinge, Manicaland Province following heavy rains and flooding caused by Cyclone Idai. Two pupils from the school are among at least 24 people who have been confirmed dead as the cyclone wreaks havoc in the southeastern parts of the country. The Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services said in a tweet Saturday that the deaths were mainly in Chimanimani district. "The army is moving in from Chipinge to rescue 197 pupils from Charles Luwanga so they can take them to Mhandarume (command center). "This is a very challenging operation as it's being undertaken as a ground effort because of unsafe weather conditions," the ministry said late Saturday afternoon. It said high winds remained a challenge for the air force to rescue marooned people. Many rivers have burst their banks and bridges have been swept away in the floods. A UN spokesman said on Thursday that Cyclone Idai has claimed at least 122 lives and affected more than 1 million people in Malawi and Mozambique. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 23:19:48|Editor: yan Video Player Close ISLAMABAD, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Pakistan Army said Saturday that it has "shot down" an Indian spying quadcopter along the Line of Control (LoC) in the disputed Kashmir region. The incident happened amid tensions between Pakistan and India following a suicide attack in the Indian-controlled Kashmir last month. The Pakistani Army's spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor said on twitter that the Indian spy quadcopter was shot down in Rakhchikri sector along the LoC, which divides the two countries in the Kashmir region. He said the quadcopter had come 150 meters inside Pakistan. Last month the Pakistan air force said it had shot down two Indian aircraft after Indian army claimed they struck a camp of militant group in northwest Pakistan. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 23:19:49|Editor: yan Video Player Close ARUSHA, Tanzania, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Ali Mohamed Shein, President of Tanzania's semi-autonomous archipelago of Zanzibar, on Saturday said that his government plans to venture into land reclamation projects to increase land for socio-economic development. Shein unveiled the plans when speaking at the official opening of a one-day seminar on natural resources management, which involved different leaders from across the Indian Ocean archipelago. With an area of 2,461 square kilometers, Zanzibar is made up of two main Islands of Unguja and Pemba, located about 30 kilometers off the coast of mainland Tanzania in the Indian Ocean. Without divulging the amount of money that would be spent in the proposed land reclamation projects, the Zanzibar leader said that his government's move is in line with the increasing pressure of land shortage due to increasing population, which currently stands at 1.3 million people as per 2012 population census. He said that there are a number of countries, which have benefited from land reclamation, citing Singapore as one example which had successfully deployed land reclamation, a process of creating new land from oceans. "We want to follow suit, so that we also benefit from that by increasing the size of land for our own socio-economic development," he said, describing land reclamation as one of the options towards increasing size of the land. The Zanzibar leader further said that there are private enterprises which have tried to expand the land size and they have managed to put up socio-economic investments. "That's why we see land reclamation is possible in Zanzibar," he said, adding that the projects will be implemented by the government and through public-private partnership. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 23:24:50|Editor: yan Video Player Close BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The three Bruneian scholarship students residing in Christchurch, New Zealand were not affected and were not inside the mosques during the Christchurch mosques shooting that left at least 49 dead and 48 injured on Friday, the Education Ministry said. According to local daily the Borneo Bulletin on Saturday, Brunei's Ministry of Education said its Scholarship Section through its Education Attache in Canberra, Australia has confirmed that the students were not in the affected mosques during the incident. The ministry said it takes serious attention of the safety of Bruneian students in New Zealand. The Ministry of Education informed private students studying in New Zealand or their parents/guardians to inform their presence to the Educational Attache in Canberra, Australia as soon as they can for any needs pertaining to safety and communication, the daily reported. Meanwhile, it is not immediately known the number of Bruneian students or citizens currently in New Zealand. Brunei has no permanent representative in the country but maintains a non-resident high commission based in Brunei, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. Brunei's Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah on Saturday sent a message of condolences to Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern following attacks on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand that claimed the lives of innocent people and injured many others. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 23:34:54|Editor: yan Video Player Close HONG KONG, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Office of the Commissioner of the Chinese Foreign Ministry in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) on Saturday called for other countries' respect for the rule of law of the HKSAR and its normal legislative process relating to anti-crime cooperation. "Combating crimes through cooperation is the common need of the international community and serves the interests of all parties," a spokesperson of the commissioner's office said in response to comments by certain countries on the HKSAR government's proposal to amend Fugitive Offenders Ordinance and Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters Ordinance. "The relevant countries should respect the rule of law of the HKSAR and its normal legislative process," the spokesperson added. The commissioner's office hopes the relevant parties would attach importance to the statements made by the HKSAR government on multiple occasions that the objective of the amendments is to enable Hong Kong to conduct case-based cooperation with jurisdictions in the world that have no effective long term arrangement with Hong Kong on juridical assistance in criminal matters, the spokesperson said. The standards followed by the HKSAR government are fully consistent with common practice of fugitive transfer, the spokesperson said, adding that the HKSAR government is studying the public views it received over the amendments. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-16 23:39:55|Editor: yan Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China's public offering funds reached 13.78 trillion yuan (about 2.05 trillion U.S. dollars) by the end of January this year, according to the Asset Management Association of China. This marked an increase of 750 billion yuan compared with the end of 2018. Of the total, the volume of equity funds, money market funds and bond funds all posted growth in January. The money market funds, which increased 7 percent from the previous month to 8.15 trillion yuan, led the growth. According to the association, the public offering funds were operated by 120 fund management companies, of which 76 were domestic firms while the rest were joint ventures. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-17 00:15:01|Editor: yan Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The following are the highlights of China's key education news from the past week: -- Ministry of Education said that it would promote the digitization of vocational education, higher education and continuing education resources. The ministry will build a database for vocational education resources in 2019 and push for the sharing of quality vocational education resources. It will also complete the certification of 800 national-level online university courses that are open to the public. -- China will push for Artificial AI courses to be offered at primary and secondary schools and popularize programming education in steps. Big data, virtual reality and AI technologies should be more deeply applied to education and teaching. -- A total of 43.9 million college students in China received financial support in 2018. About 9.2 million students were awarded a total of 25 billion yuan (3.7 billion U.S. dollars) worth of scholarships last year. Financial aid worth 32.8 billion yuan and student loans worth 32.6 billion went to 9.7 million students and 4.5 million students, respectively. -- A full review of mobile apps used by schools will be conducted to ensure they are free of harmful content. Local education departments were urged to work out regulations of the utilization and development of mobile apps intended for schools. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-17 00:25:03|Editor: yan Video Player Close RABAT, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Morocco and the United States launched Saturday the 2019 edition of their annual military exercises named "African Lion" in southern Morocco. The drills will be held until April 7 with the participation of thousands of military personnel, according to a statement from the General Staff of the Moroccan Royal Armed Forces. The exercise involves various types of training including command post, maneuvering, peace keeping operations and aerial refueling, the statement said. It will also include training on counter-terrorism operations, land and air exercises, as well as a tactical simulation, it added. Military units and observers from Canada, Spain, Britain, Senegal, Tunisia, in addition to the United States and Morocco will take part in the exercise, the same source said. On the sidelines of the drills, medical services will be provided to local populations in the region of Tata by medical teams made up of doctors and nurses of the Royal Armed Forces and the U.S. Army. African Lion is an annually scheduled exercise designed to improve interoperability and mutual understanding of each nation's tactics, techniques and procedures. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-17 01:50:18|Editor: yan Video Player Close TIRANA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Turmoil occurred during an anti-government protest in capital Tirana on Saturday, when Albanian opposition supporters clashed with police. Thousands of protestors, led by the main opposition Democratic Party (DP), gathered at 11:00 a.m. local time in front of Prime Minister Edi Rama's office in a protest against the Socialist government, which they accused of corruption and linking to organized crime. They also asked Rama and his cabinet to step down. Two hours later, the protest was displaced in front of the Parliament building, where the protestors attempted to break through police lines and enter the building. Protestors threw smoke bombs and other objects to the police forces, who responded with tear gas and water cannons. According to the police report, around 1,800 police officers were engaged to ensure safety during the demonstrations. Meanwhile, the office of Albanian President Ilir Meta issued a press release, saying that the president is following the situation with great concern. Meta called for a peaceful demonstration and asked the citizens to keep calm, avoid confrontation and provocations. In a reaction to the recent political events, during a meeting on Saturday with Albanian touristic operators, Rama stated that the situation has not affected the government or the majority but only the country's economy and tourism. Lawmakers of Albanian opposition have resigned from their posts and refused the calls of the European Union and international organizations to have talks with the government and end the political crisis. The opposition has demanded a transitory government to prepare the country for early elections. The international representatives in the country have warned the opposition against using violence and called on them to sit down to hold dialogue with the government. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-17 03:55:32|Editor: yan Video Player Close RABAT, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Morocco has decided to maintain an attitude of non-interference in recent developments in Algeria, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita said in a statement on Saturday. Bourita said that Morocco refrained from commenting on developments in Algeria, expressing astonishment at reports published by some media in France and Algeria about Morocco's diplomacy. He stressed that his country has not given any statement to media on the situation in Algeria. Morocco also rejected the false allegation of its coordination with other countries, notably France, on the events in Algeria, Bourita said, adding that no contact has been established with France or any other country in Europe or elsewhere on this subject. Yemen's Houthi followers shout slogans during a rally held to congratulate cease-fire in Hodeidah, in Sanaa, Yemen, on Dec. 19, 2018. (Xinhua/Mohammed Mohammed) SANAA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Yemen's Houthi rebels on Saturday threatened to launch ballistic missile attacks on Riyadh and Abu Dhabi if coalition forces led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) attacked the Yemeni lifeline port city of Hodeidah. "Our forces stand ready to response to any major attack on Hodeidah," the rebels' military spokesman Yahya Sariee said in a statement. "The intelligence-gathering information confirms the enemy is preparing for a military escalation in Hodeidah," Sariee said in the statement carried by Houthi-controlled Saba news agency. "The legitimate targets of our forces extend to the capital cities of Saudi Arabia and the UAE," he said. The Houthi rebels have launched dozens of missile attacks on Riyadh and drone strikes on Abu Dhabi since 2017 to revenge airstrikes. However, most of the missiles were intercepted in the air by Saudi Arabia, while the UAE has denied any drone attacks on its ports. Saudi Arabia and the UAE are leading a military coalition that intervened in Yemen in March 2015 to try to restore Yemeni President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi and his government back to power after Houthi rebels forced him into exile and seized much of the country's north. The four-year war has killed thousands of civilians, displaced over 3 million others and pushed the impoverished Arab country to the brink of mass starvation. Rebel-held Hodeidah is the main gateway of Yemen's most food imports and humanitarian aid. The coalition-backed Yemeni government troops have been massing on the southern edges of the port city since July last Year in preparation for launching a major assault to recapture the city. The planned attack was halted under international pressures to pave the way for a peace deal brokered by the United Nations. The deal reached in Stockholm last December has focused on Hodeidah as the first phase to rebuild trust between the warring parties. The cease-fire deal went into force on Dec. 18, 2018, but withdrawal of the rival forces has yet to be fulfilled as fighting on the ground intensified. Last week, the UN Special Envoy to Yemen Martin Griffiths informed the Security Council that he is still working with the parties to make the rival troops' withdrawal in Hodeidah a reality. Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-17 06:25:57|Editor: yan Video Player Close ZAGREB, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Thousands of protesters rallied on Saturday in Croatia against domestic violence following a recent tragic case on the Adriatic island of Pag where a father threw his four children from the balcony, causing them serious injuries. Protesters in Zagreb demanded more effective government actions and more serious approach against domestic violence which is on the rise in the country. They noted that 91 women were killed in Croatia over the past five years, which accounts for almost half of all murders in the country. In 70 percent of the cases, the murderer was a person close to the victim. Coordinators of the protest, which was organized through the Facebook group #spasime (saveme), seek concrete requirements from the government. They ask to qualify domestic violence as a criminal offense, and not just as a misdemeanor. They demand protection of the dignity and safety of victims during legal proceedings, better cooperation between prosecutors, police and welfare workers, and better education about domestic violence. Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic joined the rally in Zagreb and told reporters that he would talk with the organizers of the protest on Monday. He said that it was necessary to strengthen prevention, increase punishment for perpetrators, and provide support to victims. Apart from the capital Zagreb, protests were held in other Croatian cities including Split, Sibenik and Dubrovnik. Cine sunt initiatorii proiectului care permite interceptarea aplicatiilor online Articolul din proiectul de lege care permite interceptarile conversatiilor pe Whatsapp, Messenger, Skype sau Telegram, promovat in Parlament de Guvernul Citu, cu trei zile inainte de a fi demis prin motiune de cenzura, si votat de Camera [citeste mai departe] Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-09 20:27:08|Editor: zh Video Player Close CHINGOLA, Zambia, March 9 (Xinhua) -- "I have completely changed my perception over Chinese after I visited China and witnessed their culture of hard work," says Martin Simwaba a resident of Chingola town in Zambia's Copperbelt Province. Simwaba, 38, a father of five children who visited China in October for an e-governance for Development program, was impressed by the steadiness shown by the Chinese to develop in all economic sectors. He said some three decades ago China was a relatively poor country, noting that the Asian nation is now a second economic giant in the world, and aims to eliminate poverty. This, he said, is a result of long term planning model which has paid off, stressing that Zambia should emulate China's economic model if the country is to advance in the quest to grow her economy. Simwaba attributes the tremendous development partly to Chinese government's commitment to educating its masses in various fields, starting at a tender age. China's education system is tailored in such a way that youths are educated in various fields and this contributes effectively towards the development of their country. If Africa is to develop to a higher level, Simwaba says the African states are supposed to plan for economic growth. A mining technician by profession, Simwaba visited three cities, namely Harbin, Jinan and Beijing, and was surprised by the advanced technology in all the cities. He said technology is the heartbeat of China from where development is anchored from. People have come up with detecting technology to check on an foreign item in any maize silos. "Chinese are even able to detect fake drinks through technology system," he says. Some hotels have installed hotpots on tables where a person can cook his or her own food while seated. On hospitality sector, Simwaba said it is marvelous. "Chinese are down to earth and a humble people," he says. According to him, China is a safe place for international tourists, adding that he felt at home while in China during the e-governance for development program. He said the Chinese like mingling with other people and learning other people's culture and tradition. Simwaba concluded that he hoped more exchange programs will be carried out so Zambian youths can learn the hard working culture of Chinese. No attacks have been spotted in the Joint Forces operation today The Russian militants violated the ceasefire regime six times in Donbas conflict zone, no casualties among the Armed Forces of Ukraine were reported over 24 hours. The press service of the Joint Forces HQ reported this on Facebook. The enemy used the Minsk-banned weaponry three times. In the East operational group action zone, the enemy fired the positions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces near Novoselivka and Shyrokyno settlements. In the North group area, the enemy attacked our positions near Krymske, Novozvanivka and Stanytsia Luhanska settlements. According to the surveillance data, two Russian occupants were killed on March 15. Since midnight, no attacks have been spotted, - the report said. Earlier, the names of the Ukrainian soldiers who died in Donbas on March 13 were revealed. Servicemen of the 57th mechanized brigade died in a grenade explosion in a bunker. As it was reported, on March 13, a serviceman exploded himself and his two comrades after the fight in Donbas combat zone. Two of them died, and another one was injured. The incident occurred near Nevelske. It should be noted that the 57th brigade was created on the base of a special brigade of the territorial defense in Kropyvnytsky in 2014. In 2018, it was replaced to Kherson region. According to the politician, the attitude towards Russia of the Ukrainian people is improving Viktor Medvedchuk, the Chairman of the Political Council of Opposition Platform For Life political party 112.ua The majority of the Ukrainian people believe that the ban on the Russian films, books, culture activists, language quotes all those democratic innovations as if pro-European Ukraine is dictated only by the anti-Russian sentiment policy. Viktor Medvedchuk, the Chairman of the Political Council of Opposition Platform For Life political party stated that. The digits speak louder than words, as according to the polls that had been conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology from February 28 till March 11, 53.5% of Ukrainians are convinced that the ban of Russian TV-channels is a mistake and it restricts the rights of the citizens. Only the third of people (31.7%) agrees with the ban, - Medvedchuk said. According to the polls, 59.6% of the citizens have a negative opinion of the ban of some Russian artists touring in Ukraine and the broadcasting of the Russian films in Ukraine, and only 27.7% stand for this ban. 53.2% of people believe that the ban of Russian social networks is a mistake as well and it restricts their rights, while only 28.8% endorse this ban. 42.2% of people believe that the language quota is inappropriate, while only 32.2% support it. Apparently, the Ukrainian people do not support fully any of the reforms by Parubiy-Kyrylenko-Viatrovych and other famous patriots. The best evidence is the very fact that despite the radical anti-Russian sentiment policy, which the current government represents as the national idea, the attitude of the Ukrainian people towards Russia is improving. In September 2018, the attitude towards Russia was assessed as "very good" or "good" by 48% of people, then in February 2019, the percentage grew to 57%. This is the best answer to all the so-called patriots, who have been trying to stir up hatred between our nations for five years, the Chairman of the Political Council added. Great Britain calls for release of the 24 detained Ukrainian sailors and seized vessels in the Kerch Strait Jeremy Hunt, the British Foreign Secretary stated that the International society is against Russia, as it violates the international law very strictly. The press service of the Foreign Office reports this. Today, the UK and our international partners in the EU, Australia, Canada, and the US have sent an unequivocal message to Russia that their attack on Ukrainian vessels in the Kerch Strait and the Black Sea last year was absolutely unacceptable, the report said. 'We will continue to take necessary action together in response to Russias efforts to destabilize Ukraine', the Secretary stressed. According to the report, Russia must immediately release the 24 detained servicemen and return the seized vessels. The Chairman of the Border Guard Service Gennadiy Medvedev, the Head of the Service Command Point of the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation for the Republic of Crimea and Sevastopol Ruslan Romashkin, the Head of the Border Directorate of Russias Federal Security Service Sergey Stankevich and his Deputy Andrey Shein were included into the sanctions list. GUP RK KTB Sudokompozit (Sudokompozit), PAO Zvezda, AO Zavod Fiolent (Fiolent), LLC SK Consol-Stroi LTD were sanctioned as well. Earlier, The U.S. Department of the Treasury imposed sanctions against six Russian individuals and eight Russian organizations for the attack at the Ukrainian vessels in Kerch Strait in November 2016. As we reported earlier, On November 25, the coast guard ships of the Russian Navy attacked 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. Ukrainian ships were rejected passage via the Kerch Strait, Russian coast guards opened aimed fire on them. All 24 sailors on board were captured and delivered to Moscow 21 of them were delivered to Lefortovo remand center, the rest came to the hospital of Matrosskaya Tishina prison. Facing an extension of the sentence term, Ukrainian POWs detained in the Kerch Strait refused to testify in Lefortovo court. Sailors were distributed into six groups, four people in each. On January 15, 2019, Moscow's Lefortovo district court decided to keep 20 Ukrainian sailors in remand until April 24. On January 16, the court extended the detention term for another 4 sailors. On March 15, the USA and Canada imposed sanctions against Russia for the attack in the Kerch Strait Open source The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation stated that Russia will respond to the sanctions, imposed by the USA and Canada, in a practical manner. The press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation reported this. According to the comment, Washington and Ottawa have been trying to pressure Russia under forfeit pretexts in order to impose sanctions on the Russian citizens and organizations. The restrictions are imposed as if due to the aggressive actions of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, unlawful Crimea annexation, and they added new groundless accusations of "unjustified use of armed forces in the Kerch Strait, the report said. Earlier, the U.S. Department of the Treasury imposed sanctions against six Russian individuals and eight Russian organizations for the attack at the Ukrainian vessels in the Kerch Strait in November 2018. As we reported earlier, in November 2018, the coast guard ships of the Russian Navy attacked 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. As Ukrainian ships were rejected passage via the Kerch Strait, Russian coast guards opened adjusted fire on them. All 24 sailors on board were captured and delivered to Moscow 21 of them were delivered to Lefortovo remand center, the rest came to the hospital of Matrosskaya Tishina prison. Facing an extension of the sentence term, Ukrainian POWs detained in the Kerch Strait refused to testify in Lefortovo court. Sailors were distributed into six groups, four people in each. On January 15, 2019, Moscow's Lefortovo district court decided to keep 20 Ukrainian sailors in remand until April 24. On January 16, the court extended the detention term for another 4 sailors. 'Gun-Control' the Courts Ignore By Rob Morse. March 14th, 2019 Original Source The power to regulate an activity is the power to infringe upon it. The power to tax is the power to destroy that activity. Unfortunately, state and federal judges seldom see an infringement when the government regulates and taxes gun owners. Today, the state and federal government significantly restrict the guns you may purchase. Those restrictions grow every day. These prohibitions limit the model, year of manufacture, and the magazine capacity of the guns you can buy. Identical object may be legal or illegal depending on when and where you purchased them.. and there is no way for law enforcement to discriminate one from the other. Those rules apply to you, but not to some government employees. We have clear and convincing evidence that criminals dont obey these laws. In addition, we know these gun prohibitions have no effect on the rate of crime or its severity. Judges ignore the obvious evidence and dont see these restrictions as an infringement on your rights. Some state governments require a government permission slip before you may touch a firearm. You have to prove youre not a criminal, and pay for the privilege. The federal government mandates that you undergo a background check when you buy a firearm from a gunshop. A police officer performs a similar background check in a few seconds when he runs your drivers license during a traffic stop. In contrast, some states take a year to perform a similar check. Delays matter. Vulnerable people who were clearly in jeopardy were murdered while waiting for a government permission slip to buy a gun for personal protection. Judges dont see disarming a murder victim as an infringement. Criminals dont buy their guns from legal dealers so these laws do nothing to disarm criminals. Some states tax the guns you buy. They also impose a tax of time as they impose mandatory waiting periods before you can pick up the gun you bought. They also impose a tax of time as they limit the number of guns you may buy in a month. Some police departments impose their own limitation on how many guns you can buy in a year. In addition, there are taxes imposed when the states require mandatory training or safety class to buy a gun. Judges have not ruled these taxes to be an infringement on our right to own a firearm. Some states want to go farther. They want to impose a yearly property tax on owning a firearm. They already tax ammunition and impose prohibitions on the type of ammunition you can own. Meanwhile, your local police may carry ammunition that is forbidden to you. We would be outraged at similar restrictions on voting or on free speech. States impose requirements on how a gun may be stored. They prohibit your friend touching your gun. They effectively impose additional taxes the people who sell guns by imposing training, background check, and security requirements that exceed the requirements for some government insured banks. Does that sound like an infringement to you? Some states tax you if you want to carry a firearm concealed on your own property or in public. They mandate hours of instruction for both the concealed carry students and for the concealed carry instructors. The additional bureaucratic delays of processing the application are another tax on your time. We know what a judge would say if it took hundreds of dollars and several months to obtain a voters identification card. It appears that judges cant even spell infringement when examining the right of the citizens to bear arms. Judges are agents of the government. They blindly assume the vague assertion that these restrictions are for "public safety." The people who have a CC permit are the most law abiding and non-violent class of people on the planet.. period. Politicians might want to punish gun owners politically, but that punishment can never be justified as a public safety measure. Put not your faith in judges. Back to Top A native of the Chechen Republic insisted that he planned to get to Ukraine for further illegal travel to EU countries Ukrainian border guards detained a suspicious Russian, who was planning to get to the EU countries at the Domanovo checkpoint on the border with Belarus. A passport, a knife and files with propaganda of radical Islam were found among the belongings of a native of the Chechen Republic. This is reported on the website of the State Border Guard. The Russian himself has denied involvement in terrorist groups and insisted that he planned to get to Ukraine for further illegal travel to EU countries. However, he could not give any explanation on how he wanted to do this. Detected objects were seized by law enforcement officers; the person was not allowed across the state border and prohibited from entering the territory of Ukraine. Earlier, law enforcers have exposed the grouping, which created the channel for the illegal migration. About 35 people were the members of the grouping as the Internal Ministry of Ukraine reported. The citizens of Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Slovakia and Belarus entered the grouping. They tried to illegally transfer people from the countries of South-East Asia to Slovakia, Poland, Hungary and further transfer to Germany. The migrants gathered in Kyiv and Odesa and then they were taken to Zakarpattia region and illegally transferred through the state border. The members of the grouping were monitored since last spring. According to the head of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, this authority is the patriarchy only on the Ukrainian territories, in other words, still non-recognized patriarchy Patriarch Filaret: no new church exists. Open source Patriarch of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, Kyiv Patriarchate Filaret explained under what conditions the newly created church could receive the status of the Patriarchy, as Hlavkom news agency reports. Filaret stated that he was not invited to Istanbul on the ceremony of granting Tomos because he has the Patriarch rank, and the Orthodox Church of Ukraine has the status of the Metropolitanate. 'Im the patriarch, if I visit the ceremony as patriarch, it will mean that the Ecumenical Patriarchate recognizes the Orthodox Church of Ukraine as the patriarchy', Filaret pointed out. According to the Patriarch, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has not ruled out the possibility that the Ukrainian Orthodox Church can receive the status of patriarchy. If we unite all the orthodoxy in one church, the reason for granting the status of patriarchy will appear. We are the patriarchy, but only in Ukraine, in other words, we have not been recognized yet. But we have been recognized as the Kyiv Metropolitanate. Thats why our aim is continuing the uniting process with the parishes and clergy of the Moscow Patriarchate. When we are united, we will ask the Ecumenical Patriarch to grant us the status of patriarchy, - Filaret added. Earlier today, the Patriarch of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church Kyiv Patriarchate Filaret stated that he is not pleased with the current status of the Ukrainian church granted by Constantinople. According to Filaret, the current status of the Ukrainian church does not appeal to him enough, so thats why on the next Pomistnyi Cathedral it is necessary to adopt the Statute of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Earlier, it was reported that the members of the Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate signed the Tomos on providing autocephaly for the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew passed the Tomos of autocephaly and bishops crosier to the apostle of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine Epifaniy. The event happened during the festive service in St. George's Cathedral in Istanbul. Open source About a dozen people were detained in Poltava before the start of the pre-election rally of Petro Poroshenko, according to Poltavshchyna local newspaper. It is reported that a conflict occurred on Teatralna Square. According to eyewitnesses, a group of young people with half-closed faces began to throw bottles in the direction of the scene. As a result, about ten people were taken to the police vans. As the newspaper notes, representatives of the "National groups" threw toy pigs at law enforcement officers with the requirement to bring to justice the former First Deputy Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Oleg Gladkovsky (Svynarchuk) for embezzlement in the defense sphere. As a result, the law enforcers took about 10 people to the police station, where they found out the purpose of their actions. The prequalification of their actions is hooliganism. Earlier Shevchenkivskyi District Court of Kyiv arrested one of the suspects in the murder of the presidential administration's employee. The press service of Kyiv Prosecutor 's Office reports this. Shevchenkivskyi District Court approved the claim of the Kyiv local prosecutors office and arrested the foreigner for 60 days, as he is suspected in armed assault and robbery on the worker of the Presidential Administration of Ukraine, the report said. According to the report, the detained citizen of Armenia is suspected under part 2 of the article 187 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (robbery committed by a group of persons targeting at seizing of someone else's property, which entailed violence that is dangerous to the life of the attacked person). On March 14, around 6:50 PM, the body of Olexandr Bukhtatyi, the employee of the Administration was found near the church in Kyiv. Ukraine's President Petro Poroshenko Open source President Petro Poroshenko instructed the Cabinet to conduct a public audit of Ukroboronprom state enterprise before April 16. This is stated in the press service of the president. It is indicated that on Saturday, March 16, Poroshenko signed a decree, which introduced the decision of the National Security Council to reform the military industrial complex. According to the decision, the complex's capacities will be reviewed. The Cabinet of Ministers is entrusted to conduct the process in the prescribed manner. The government is also tasked with ensuring the elimination of corruption risks, increasing the level of transparency and strengthening control by the state and the public over the activities of the Ukroboronprom and other state-owned enterprises of the defense industry complex. The government should take measures to involve representatives of partner countries in the work of the supervisory board of the Ukroboronprom concern. The Cabinet has been tasked with working out the question of the feasibility of establishing a central executive body to implement the state military-industrial policy and control over Ukroboronprom. The Cabinet of Ministers should also organize an audit of the State Concern Ukroboronprom and member companies of this concern with the involvement of international experts, and inform the public on its results, the report said. Earlier about a dozen people were detained in Poltava before the start of the pre-election rally of Petro Poroshenko, according to the Poltavshchyna local newspaper. It is reported that a conflict occurred on Teatralna Square. According to eyewitnesses, a group of young people with half-closed faces began to throw bottles in the direction of the scene. As a result, about ten people were taken to the police vans. As the newspaper notes, representatives of the "National groups" threw toy pigs at law enforcement officers with the requirement to bring to justice the former First Deputy Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Oleg Gladkovsky (Svynarchuk) for embezzlement in the defense sphere. As a result, the law enforcers took about 10 people to the police station, where they found out the purpose of their actions. The prequalification of their actions is hooliganism. ________________________ Best in the State Washington Post's The Fix, 2011, 2009 Best in Pittsburgh Region PoliticsPA, 2011 "[W]idely cited as one of the oldest and most-read political blogs in the city" Pittsburgh City Paper, 2007 ________________________ Blog Archive Dec 2021 (38) Nov 2021 (84) Oct 2021 (58) Sep 2021 (67) Aug 2021 (62) Jul 2021 (54) Jun 2021 (50) May 2021 (58) Apr 2021 (44) Mar 2021 (57) Feb 2021 (64) Jan 2021 (93) Dec 2020 (82) Nov 2020 (62) Oct 2020 (50) Sep 2020 (45) Aug 2020 (51) Jul 2020 (56) Jun 2020 (53) May 2020 (70) Apr 2020 (66) Mar 2020 (169) Feb 2020 (211) Jan 2020 (184) Dec 2019 (54) Nov 2019 (56) Oct 2019 (55) Sep 2019 (63) Aug 2019 (54) Jul 2019 (69) Jun 2019 (56) May 2019 (65) Apr 2019 (68) Mar 2019 (72) Feb 2019 (76) Jan 2019 (62) Dec 2018 (55) Nov 2018 (69) Oct 2018 (90) Sep 2018 (82) Aug 2018 (58) Jul 2018 (36) Jun 2018 (47) May 2018 (44) Apr 2018 (64) Mar 2018 (63) Feb 2018 (68) Jan 2018 (92) Dec 2017 (85) Nov 2017 (64) Oct 2017 (82) Sep 2017 (54) Aug 2017 (89) Jul 2017 (60) Jun 2017 (86) May 2017 (84) Apr 2017 (62) Mar 2017 (86) Feb 2017 (91) Jan 2017 (113) Dec 2016 (109) Nov 2016 (100) Oct 2016 (82) Sep 2016 (95) Aug 2016 (84) Jul 2016 (84) Jun 2016 (99) May 2016 (93) Apr 2016 (106) Mar 2016 (145) Feb 2016 (125) Jan 2016 (103) Dec 2015 (83) Nov 2015 (80) Oct 2015 (100) Sep 2015 (111) Aug 2015 (94) Jul 2015 (98) Jun 2015 (151) May 2015 (125) Apr 2015 (109) Mar 2015 (122) Feb 2015 (113) Jan 2015 (135) Dec 2014 (131) Nov 2014 (115) Oct 2014 (146) Sep 2014 (112) Aug 2014 (128) Jul 2014 (94) Jun 2014 (104) May 2014 (140) Apr 2014 (132) Mar 2014 (81) Feb 2014 (89) Jan 2014 (141) Dec 2013 (100) Nov 2013 (96) Oct 2013 (99) Sep 2013 (94) Aug 2013 (95) Jul 2013 (95) Jun 2013 (91) May 2013 (139) Apr 2013 (179) Mar 2013 (73) Feb 2013 (76) Jan 2013 (85) Dec 2012 (59) Nov 2012 (71) Oct 2012 (85) Sep 2012 (70) Aug 2012 (71) Jul 2012 (53) Jun 2012 (51) May 2012 (52) Apr 2012 (52) Mar 2012 (69) Feb 2012 (76) Jan 2012 (70) Dec 2011 (60) Nov 2011 (54) Oct 2011 (57) Sep 2011 (75) Aug 2011 (72) Jul 2011 (64) Jun 2011 (76) May 2011 (56) Apr 2011 (73) Mar 2011 (114) Feb 2011 (71) Jan 2011 (80) Dec 2010 (92) Nov 2010 (82) Oct 2010 (73) Sep 2010 (95) Aug 2010 (86) Jul 2010 (81) Jun 2010 (76) May 2010 (71) Apr 2010 (74) Mar 2010 (74) Feb 2010 (82) Jan 2010 (101) Dec 2009 (108) Nov 2009 (182) Oct 2009 (136) Sep 2009 (102) Aug 2009 (120) Jul 2009 (151) Jun 2009 (136) May 2009 (180) Apr 2009 (145) Mar 2009 (113) Feb 2009 (113) Jan 2009 (124) Dec 2008 (108) Nov 2008 (69) Oct 2008 (89) Sep 2008 (76) Aug 2008 (75) Jul 2008 (87) Jun 2008 (80) May 2008 (99) Apr 2008 (93) Mar 2008 (115) Feb 2008 (147) Jan 2008 (162) Dec 2007 (124) Nov 2007 (95) Oct 2007 (67) Sep 2007 (42) Aug 2007 (78) Jul 2007 (75) Jun 2007 (123) May 2007 (110) Apr 2007 (108) Mar 2007 (92) Feb 2007 (136) Jan 2007 (119) Dec 2006 (41) Nov 2006 (34) Oct 2006 (12) Sep 2006 (13) Aug 2006 (13) Jul 2006 (16) Jun 2006 (12) May 2006 (21) Apr 2006 (38) Mar 2006 (27) Feb 2006 (25) Jan 2006 (18) Josh Wolf is a comedian, actor and NY Times Bestselling author best known for his work as a round table guest and writer on E!s Chelsea Lately and After Lately. He has become one of the most sought after personalities in comedy, headlining stand up comedy tours across the nation. Wolf grew up in Amherst, Massachusetts and began performing stand up at 15 years old. After moving to Los Angeles in his mid 20s, Josh landed a talent deal with 20th Century Fox and series deals with ABC and NBC. These deals were based on his real-life story of having a relationship with a woman who had two kids prior to meeting him and then having another with Josh and waking up one day to tell him she had no desire to be a mother; leaving Josh who was approx. 24 years old to figure how to raise three toddlers alone all the while trying to forge a career as a standup comedian. Other credits were writing for Yes, Dear, All of Us, and Cuts. In 2006, Wolf returned to television in front of the camera, appearing on the 4th season of Last Comic Standing, and recurring on My Name is Earl. Throughout 2013-2014, Wolf hosted Shark After Dark which aired during the ultra-popular Shark Week on The Discovery Channel. This led to Josh being cast as the host for Discoverys late night series Naked and Afraid. In 2015, Wolf hosted CMTs first original late night comedy series, The Josh Wolf Show. Josh currently lives in Los Angeles with his wife and kids. This event is 21 and over. Any ticket holder unable to present valid identification indicating that they are at least 21 years of age will not be admitted to this event, and will not be eligible for a refund. By purchasing tickets to this event, you are authorizing this charge and acknowledging that ALL SALES ARE FINAL, unless an event is cancelled by the artist or venue. There are no refunds. Thomas Heaton is a food and travel reporter for The Kathmandu Post. Before working in Nepal, he spent five years in New Zealand, most recently as a food writer for Cuisine magazine. Heaton is content trawling through markets, sampling sundry skewers of offal and getting into uncomfortable situations while travelling. Foreign investment to be allowed in education consultancies Despite lobby from the umbrella bodies of education consultancies, a parliamentary committee on Friday endorsed a bill to amend the Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act, allowing foreign investment in the education consultancy service. How a Post story led to a reader-driven campaign to provide villagers with clean drinking water On March 11, a three-wheeler pickup drove into Neemkhotiya village in Bardiya On the back of the truck, there were five bio-sand filters meant to be delivered and distributed to families in the village A group of diverse but like-minded individuals, the members of ARC have come together in their common desire to fight hatred, bigotry, intolerance and violence because of the harm these antisocial behaviors cause to our society. In that effort, we will not use or sanction the use of illegal actions (such as violence or intimidation) in pursuit of our desired aims and if we learn of anyone who does use these unethical methods we will report those individuals to the authorities. Instead, we will use the guarantees found in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms that ensure freedom of legal speech and expression. Mohan Guragain is a desk editor at The Kathmandu Post. He edited a provincial youth-oriented monthly paper for nearly two years before joining The Himalayan Times in 2008. Guragain also writes occasionally on politics and socio-economic issues. He joined the Post in 2010. YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. Death toll in the attacks on the two mosques in New Zealand has risen to 50. 50 others have been hospitalized with various degree injuries, RIA Novosti reported. Earlier it was reported that 49 people have killed in the shootings in mosques in the city of Christchurch, New Zealand. New Zealands Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern described the shootings as a terrorist attack. Armed people entered the Al Noor and Linwood Masjid mosques in Christchurch at about 13:45 local time shortly after the day prayer, blocked the entrance doors and opened fire. According to eyewitnesses, about 200 and 300 people were inside the building when the attack occurred. Police told citizens to stay indoors. All schools in the city were closed. Australian Brenton Harrison Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist, was charged with murder on Saturday following the mass shootings. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan is departing for one of the villages on an unannounced visit, reports Armenpress. Today I decided to make an experiment and visit one of the villages of one of the provinces without any prior announcement and informing anyone. I even didnt inform the governor of that province which village I am going to visit. Such visit aims at getting acquainted with the people, talking to them without any pre-arranged events and just to see what is happening, what are the problems that can be solved quickly, what they expect from the government, which of these expectations we can do quickly and on what we need to work, the PM said live on Facebook, keeping still secret the name of the village. Pashinyan added that if the visit result is useful, he promised to visit different villages and provinces of Armenia from time to time in this format without informing the local officials. The PM stated that direct communication with the people is very important for him. According to him, Facebook of course helps on this matter, but the live contact, in his view, is the most important. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. Tourism and Film Production: Cooperation Perspectives meeting-discussion was held in Yerevan on March 15 aimed at making Armenia recognizable in the world through film production, reports Armenpress. The meeting has been organized by the Tourism Committee of Armenia, the Associated Television International (USA) and Academy Films (Armenia). At the meeting founder of the ATI David McKenzie introduced his offer to Armenian tour companies. He announced that his company plans to make some videos advertising Armenia which will be provided to the Armenian government free of charge aimed at advertising Armenia in international markets as a tourism destination. David McKenzie said his company is ready to shoot marketing videos for Armenian tour operators and hotels which they can freely use to present at best their products and services. We are ready to shoot and provide that materials within three months. We want Armenia to become known to the broad public as an attractive and interesting tourism site. For this purpose we need to talk to the world through all available means, he said. The meeting was also attended by chief advisor to the Armenian Prime Minister Arsen Gasparyan who thanked the company executives for the carried out works. We must be able to create such mechanisms so that each community in Armenia can be engaged and gain benefits from tourism, Gasparyan said, adding that tourism is a targeted direction for Armenias economic development. Director of Academy Films Aram Torosyan touched upon the existing problems in the tourism sector and their possible solutions. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. The number of tourists who visited Armenia in 2018 increased by 10.5% compared to 2017. In 2019 their number will grow by at least 15%, Mekhak Apresyan chairman of the Armenian Tourism Federation told reporters today, reports Armenpress. We must be ready to the increase of number of tourists and do everything so that they leave Armenia with bright impressions, he said. He informed that the number of Georgian and Iranian tourists in Armenia decreased in 2018. A great tourist flow was recorded from Russia, the European countries, the US, China, Korea, Japan, Arab states, India and Philippines. In order not to disappoint the tourists, high-quality services are needed in all sectors. The state policy should also be directed for this goal. The settlement process of the field must launch within the public-private partnership in order to be able to ensure stable quality of the services provided, favorable competitive environment which can lead to the investment activeness, Apresyan said. As a problem of the field Apresyan mentioned the fact that foreign businessmen visit Armenia with their buses, tour guides, hold tours in Armenia by not paying taxes. The whole circulation is being carried out in cash. By this they are in better competitive conditions compared to all operating businessmen in Armenia and gradually they are removed from the market. We face a problem of not properly presenting our country, he said. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. The Sins of the Fathers book proves that the genocide of Armenians and other peoples committed by Young Turks and its denial by Turkey are almost the same criminal acts, reports Armenpress. Siobhan Nash-Marshall, author of the book, professor at the New York Manhattanville College, introduced her book during a discussion today in the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute in Yerevan. This book is a philosophy and history. I think that Turkeys denialism and the genocide are the same. I knew about the Armenian Genocide when I was a child. We need to remember it. The fact that the Genocide has been committed, is not questioned. The question is why it was committed and why it is being denied. That is what my book is about. Denialism is a part of genocide. Turks deny the Genocide, it means they continue the genocide. These are the same things. Anyone who thinks that denialism and genocide are different, he/she is mistaken, the Professor said. Siobhan Nash-Marshall said she wants to show why America and Europe should love and accept the truth. Europe knew 40 years ago that a genocide could take place and did nothing, except from finding cooperation ways. Everything was left on the paper, the author of the book said. She noted that the Western Armenia on the map was called Western Armenia before the World War II. Siobhan Nash-Marshall said no matter how much Turkey would like to call it Eastern Anatolia, all know that it was called Armenia. We will never question this. For me the question is why it is being denied. And its very difficult to answer to this question, she said. Touching upon the reasons of writing the book, the author said during the years of the Armenian Genocide many Americans paid millions of dollars for saving the lives of Armenians, built schools and saved children. And her ancestors have been one of those Americans. Siobhan Nash-Marshall said she comes from a family that has never forgotten the Armenian Genocide. Siobhan Nash-Marshall also learnt speaking in Armenian, says its a very beautiful language. The presentation of The Sin of the Fathers was also held in Artsakh in autumn 2018. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. During the period from March 9 to 16 the Azerbaijani forces violated the ceasefire regime in the Artsakh-Azerbaijan line of contact nearly 250 times by firing more than 3000 shots from various caliber weapons at the Armenian positions, the defense ministry of Artsakh told Armenpress. In addition to the ceasefire violations, the Azerbaijani side also fired 60 mm mortars (9 shells) at the eastern direction (Akna) of the line of contact on March 13. The Defense Army forces of Artsakh fully control the situation in the frontline and continue confidently conducting the military service. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. Six citizens of Pakistan have been killed in a terror attack in the New Zealand city of Christchurch, the Pakistani foreign ministry said, RIA Novosti reported. 50 people have been killed in the attacks on the two mosques in New Zealand. 50 others have been hospitalized with various degree injuries. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern described the shootings as a terrorist attack. Armed people entered the Al Noor and Linwood Masjid mosques in Christchurch at about 13:45 local time shortly after the day prayer, blocked the entrance doors and opened fire. According to eyewitnesses, about 200 and 300 people were inside the building when the attack occurred. Police told citizens to stay indoors. All schools in the city were closed. Australian Brenton Harrison Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist, was charged with murder on Saturday following the mass shootings. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan President John Momis at the referendum roadshow ANTHONY KAYBING BUKA - The Autonomous Bougainville Governments referendum roadshow kicked off last week as leaders gathered to address people in the former provincial capital of Arawa. The roadshow is an initiative of the United Nations in conjunction with the ABG with the objective to meeting with key stakeholders in the three regions of Bougainville with the underpinning key message Peace by peaceful means, unity and rule of law. It will also give leaders the opportunity to inform and engage with the people enabling referendum related activities to be widely discussed. The main members of the roadshow were president John Momis, Bougainville affairs minister William Samb, peace agreement minister Albert Punghau and UN resident coordinator Gianluca Rampolla. They were accompanied by the ABG house of representatives Speaker Simon Pentanu, members of the Bougainville Referendum Commission as well as several leaders from Central Bougainville. Maybe black Americans have appreciated the [Engan] display more than others, said Dr Paul Brennan, the American anthropologist, when he saw the love and admiration of his culture on Daniels face. Like some of you, we too are black. Like you, our roots are rich and deep. We are your distant cousins, sharing a common African heritage but now scattered in different parts of the world. When Engan son and prolific writer Daniel Kumbon paused at the display of Engan artefacts at the African American Cultural Centre in Dayton, United States, he addressed black Americans with the words: PORT MORESBY - We can safely say there is enough evidence for us to know that more than 25,000 years ago the Melanesian people crossed land bridges from Indochina to inhabit what we refer to as Papua New Guinea. Later Kumbon wrote in one of his articles, One little girl asked me if Engans see themselves as black people. I thought that was provoking. I told her, Engans are black. Dr Brennans Engan collection, some of it saved from destruction by ruthless missionaries, was probably the largest from the PNG highlands to be found anywhere in America or Europe, if not second to Professor Marilyn Stratherns collection of Western Highlands items at Cambridge University. Engans saw danger everywhere, Dr. Brennan told people in fast flowing rivers, the rugged terrain, ancestral spirits and more - but the real enemies were the people who lived on the other side of the ridge or river. A clan had to defend itself when pigs were stolen, insults shouted, boundaries disputed and especially when blood was shed. But the main reasons for Engan warfare were to ensure the territorial integrity of the clan and to enhance its prestige. Dr Brennan lived in Enga from 1968-77, a period of much change, and he established the Enga Cultural Show as a display of living Engan culture. Every year from then on Engans and tribes from nearby provinces have proudly displayed their identities. This showcase of a rich cultural heritage set amidst a stunning natural landscape is held in August each year at Wabag town showground. Enga is the only province in Papua New Guinea where the people all speak the same language, and the event highlights a largely intact traditional culture with a festival drawcard being the Sili Muli dancers with their iconic black painted faces and unique headdresses. The show is the highlight of the annual calendar for Enga Province - offering three days of culture, heritage and performance from communities in the five districts of the province. It also shows off the rare orchid Dendrobium Engae, found only in Enga. Engans recognise the importance of preserving their traditional culture. They adore their culture, hundreds of people with elaborate headdresses and bodies painted in rich earthy colours dancing in unison, long feathers swaying to the rhythmic thumping of kundu drums. The background music for the Enga Cultural Show can be very contagious. The famous Suli Muli dancers have fiercely-painted faces and wear giant round hats of moss, plant fibre and even their own hair. Forming an aesthetic spear line, they rhythmically leap up and down in unison to the beat of the kundu and singing suli muli, giving the tribe its name. Apart from cultural displays, traditional salt making is another trademark of Enga. The salt is produced from a specific tree and was used as an important trade item between provinces and in bride price ceremonies. The people leave tree logs in the lake for several weeks so the salt is dissolved in the wood. Then the wood is dried and burned, and the ashes strained to extract the salt. Traditional salt makers at the showground demonstrate this and give out packets of salt wrapped in leaves and attached to a wooden stick for ease of transportation. If you attend an Engan Cultural Show, you drive home with not only with a gift of traditional salt but also with a sense that tribal identity remains a strong source of pride for Papua New Guineans. In 2019, the exotic Enga Cultural Show will be held from 10-12 August in Wabag. Air Niugini and PNG Air offer direct weekly flights to Wapenamanda airport located about 45 minutes drive from Wabag. There is limited amount of accommodation in Wabag and, in terms of quality, Wabag Lodge is the best option. Alternatives include Wildlife Lodge in Wabag and, popular among birdwatchers, Kumul Lodge built on the slopes of the Mt Hagen in the midst of a forest. Peter Kinjap is a freelance writer and a blogger, email pekinjap@gmail.com KEITH JACKSON | Sources NOOSA The Catholic bishops of Papua New Guinea have had enough of the ONeill government, blasting it for failing to take action on corruption and for what they have referred to as its general incompetence. In a public statement, the bishops asked why an Independent Commission Against Corruption had not yet been established, despite many promises over many years, and why nothing has been done to end the Special Agricultural and Business Leases (SABLs) which are said to have led to many illegal land grabs. They condemned SABLs for continuing to destroy the environment and the livelihoods of thousands of Papua New Guineans. The statement also attacked the practice of politicians directly distributing government funds to the people themselves. Girl students receive bicycles in Rautahat Various local units in Rautahat have distributed bicycles to girl students to encourage them to attend school regularly Most girls who benefited from this initiative come from impoverished families and are students at the local community schools A Turkish court has convicted an Australian-born Islamic State militant of belonging to a terror group and sentenced him to more than seven years in prison. Neil Prakash, a former rapper from Melbourne, has been in a Turkish prison since 2016 when he was arrested near the Syrian border for attempting to cross into Turkey with fake documents. Turkish prosecutors said the 27-year-old had illegally crossed into Syria in 2013 where he joined IS. He had featured in IS videos, been linked to several attack plans in Australia and has urged lone wolf attacks against the United States. Delivering its verdict on Friday, the Criminal Court in the southern city of Kilis found Prakash guilty of IS membership, and sentenced him to seven years and six months in prison. Australian Neil Prakash was in jail in Turkey for seven years ahead of his sentencing But the court said he could be released in two-and-a-half years under Turkish law. The court rejected a request for his release pending the outcome of an appeal. Prakash did not attend the hearing in person but took part in the proceedings through a teleconference system. I used to be a member of Daesh but I am no longer, he said, referencing another widely used term for IS. He insisted he was forced to feature in IS videos and photographs and they were filmed against his will. Prakashs lawyer argued his client had travelled to Syria to learn about Islam and to help people, and never intended to aid a terror organisation, according to court papers. Australia has stripped Prakash, who has Fijian and Cambodian parents, of his citizenship for extremist links. It also wants Turkey to extradite Prakash, who faces allegations of inciting a terror plot in his home state of Victoria. He faces a potential life sentence if convicted in Australia of terrorism offences. Bill Shorten has made it clear that Australia does not want Neil Prakash back. Source: 7News/Supplied Shadow Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus on Saturday said extradition proceedings are in process from Turkey to bring Prakash to Australia. Opposition Leader Bill Shorten said he hoped the confusion by the government over Prakashs status did not influence the proceedings. Story continues We dont want you back. If you ever come back it will be in handcuffs and I hope they throw you in jail and throw away the key, he said. According to the Australian Federal Police Prakash faces six charges including providing support to a terrorist organisation and engaging in hostile activity in a foreign country. But Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton on Thursday said Prakash had forfeited his Australian citizenship under laws that punish dual-national terrorists. If Mr Shorten and Mr Dreyfus want to run the lawyer line to look for some technicality to allow terrorists to remain or return to our country that is an issue for them, Mr Dutton said in a statement. The Morrison Coalition Government will seek to keep them as far from our shores as possible. Do you have a story tip? Email: y7newsroom@yahoo7.com.au. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoo7s daily newsletter. Sign up here. The 39th match between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal failed to materialize on Saturday as the world No. 2 Spaniard hobbled out of Indian Wells to send Federer into a title clash with Dominic Thiem. Nadal, whose longstanding right knee trouble flared up in his quarter-final victory over Karen Khachanov, couldn't take the court for the blockbuster semi-final with Swiss great Federer. "I wanted to try my best to be competitive today," a dejected Nadal said. "I warmed up today in the morning, and I felt that my knee was not enough good to compete at the level that I need to compete, to play semi-finals match of this event." Federer, seeded fourth as he pursues a record sixth title in the California desert, will battle 25-year-old Austrian Thiem, who is seeking his first title in one of the ATP's prestigious Masters 1000 events. Thiem, ranked eighth in the world, was rock-solid in a 7-6 (7/3), 6-7 (3/7), 6-4 victory over 14th-ranked Canadian Milos Raonic. Thiem, who advanced to the semis on a walkover when Gael Monfils withdrew with a Achilles tendon inflammation, was locked-in from the start, firing 10 winners without an unforced error in the opening set. He couldn't convert his only break point against Raonic in the second, and Raonic managed to seize the tiebreaker aided by a favorable netcord bounce for a 5-3 lead. - 'Amazing' Thiem - Thiem gained the first break of the match for a 3-2 lead in the third and after saving the only break point he faced all day as he served for the match wrapped it up with a sparkling backhand volley. "It was an amazing day," said Thiem, who will be playing in his third Masters 1,000 final. "His serve is just unreal so even though I played amazing it was so close the first two sets." The Austrian said it would "mean the world" to break through for a Masters crown, but noted it would be a tall order against 20-time Grand Slam winner Federer -- who is coming off a remarkable 100th career title in Dubai last month. "It's not going to be easy," said Thiem, who has split four prior meetings with Federer 2-2. Federer was looking forward to the match and the chance to break out of a tie with Novak Djokovic for most Indian Wells titles, but was sorry to miss a meeting with Nadal. Their rivalry stretches back 15 years, and Federer couldn't help wondering how many more chances they might have. "We've had so many epic battles," Federer, 38, said. "I know that every one that we have now could be our last. So was this our chance at a last one -- I hope not and I believe at the level he's playing and the level I'm still going there's definitely going to be more." The injury was devastating news for Nadal, whose run to the Australian Open final in January marked a return to competition for the first time since similar knee trouble forced him out of his US Open semi-final against Juan Martin del Potro in September. He had ankle surgery in November, and only returned to training in December. "For me it's not about only today. It's about what it means for me to have to pull out in a tournament that I love so much like this one, and in the semi-finals after playing well during the whole tournament," Nadal said. "You can imagine that I can't be happy." Nadal confirmed he would also skip the upcoming Miami Masters and aim to recover and prepare for the claycourt season, targeting a return at Monte Carlo April 14-21. Amazing: Austrian Dominic Thiem celebrates a point in his semi-final win over Canadian Milos Raonic at the ATP Indian Wells Masters Injured again: World number two Rafael Nadal hopes to be ready to launch his claycourt season in April after a right knee injury forced him out of the ATP Indian Wells Masters semi-finals Not enough: Canada's Milos Raonic on the way to a semi-final loss to Austrian Dominic Thiem at the ATP Indian Wells Masters Seeking a sixth: Roger Federer will be seeking a record sixth ATP Indian Wells Masters title when he takes on Dominic Thiem in Sunday's final The first victim of the horrific Christchurch massacre has been identified as 71-year-old Afghan man Daoud Nabi. Mr Nabis heartbroken son spoke outside court as accused shooter Brenton Tarrant made his first appearance. Omar Nabi said his father was highly respected in the community and was one of the founders of the local Islamic association in Christchurch. Daoud Nabi has been identified by his son as a victim of Fridays attack. Source: Facebook Omar Nabi speaks about his father outside court in Christchurch. Source: Sunrise/Seven Network He had an engineering background, he toured and stopped in New Zealand after Australia, Mr Nabi told the Weekend Sunrise. He inherited a lot of knowledge internationally and wanted to pass it on to people, he said, adding that his father lived a pure life. Mr Nabi said he was meant to attend the mosque with his dad, but was unable to go because of work. When asked if he could ever forgive in his situation, Mr Nabi responded: Im not sure if I can forgive but if I dont, I cannot actually live life and be happy. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Saturday the victims were from across the Muslim world, with Turkey, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Malaysia among the countries rendering consular assistance. A Saudi citizen was killed and another wounded, according to Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya television news channel. At least two Jordanians were among the dead, according to that countrys foreign minister. While Pakistan foreign ministry spokesman Mohammed Faisal said five citizens of his country were missing. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaks to the media after the Christchurch massacre. Source: Getty Children as young as two injured in shootings A two-year-old boy and a four-year-old girl are among the youngest victims of Fridays attack, with both recovering in hospitals in Christchurch and Auckland. Greg Robertson, the surgeon leading the emergency response to the attack, said the young girl had been transferred to the Starship Hospital in Auckland in a critical condition. The two-year-old boy and a 13-year-old boy are both in stable conditions in Christchurch Hospital. Four patients died on their way into the hospital yesterday, dying before they arrived, Mr Robertson told the media. Story continues Those injured ranged in ages from the very young to quite elderly patients. As you would expect, the wounds from gunshots are often quite significant. We have had patients with injuries to most parts of the body that range from relatively superficial soft tissue injuries to more complex injuries involving the chest, the abdomen, the pelvis, the long bones and the head. Many of the people will require multiple trips to theatre to deal with the complex series of injuries that they have. Twelve operating theatres worked through the night providing care to patients. Mr Robertson said seven patients admitted to hospital yesterday had since been discharged. Brenton Tarrant, charged for murder in relation to the mosque attacks, is lead into the dock for his appearance in the Christchurch District Court. Source: Reuters Accused shooter appears in court Australian-born 28-year-old Brenton Tarrant appeared in the dock wearing handcuffs and a white prison shirt, sitting impassively as the judge read a single murder charge against him. A raft of further charges are expected. The former fitness instructor and self-professed fascist occasionally turned to look at media present in court during the brief hearing that was held behind closed doors for security reasons. He did not request bail and was taken into custody until his next court appearance scheduled for April 5. Forty-two people are still being treated in hospital for injuries, including a four-year-old child, after an attack thought to be the deadliest directed against Muslims in the West in modern times. Alleged offender had gun licence Ms Ardern described the spree killing as a terrorist attack and said the shooter who was not on any watchlist and did not have a criminal record had legally purchased the two semi-automatic weapons, two shotguns and lever-action gun he used. The offender was in possession of a gun licence obtained in November 2017, and he started purchasing the weapons the following month, she said. While work is being done as to the chain of events that led to both the holding of this gun licence, and the possession of these weapons, I can tell you one thing right now our gun laws will change, she vowed. The suspect documented his radicalisation and two years of preparations in a lengthy, meandering and conspiracy filled far-right manifesto. Locals lay flowers in tribute to those killed and injured in the massacre. Source: Getty He live-streamed footage of himself going room-to-room, victim-to-victim, shooting the wounded from close range as they struggled to crawl away in the main Christchurch mosque. Two other people remain in custody, although their link to the attack is unknown. A third person who was earlier arrested was said to be a member of the public with a firearm who was trying to help. Two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were found in a car and neutralised by the military, while police raided a home in Dunedin, where Ms Ardern said the suspect was based. Do you have a story tip? Email: y7newsroom@yahoo7.com.au. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoo7s daily newsletter. Sign up here. French prosecutors said Friday they had asked the Vatican to lift the diplomatic immunity of its envoy to France who is under investigation for alleged sexual assault. Luigi Ventura, 74, is facing four complaints of sexual abuse -- including an allegation he molested a junior official at Paris town hall. Investigators have already spoken to three of the complainants, a source close to the case told AFP, saying in three cases they had accused him of groping their backsides. The Paris prosecutors office confirmed to AFP the bid to lift Ventura's immunity, information that was first published by French Catholic daily La Croix. The news broke in mid-February when French prosecutors revealed they were investigating the Italian-born archbishop over the Paris town hall incident, during a New Year's address by Mayor Anne Hidalgo. During the ceremony, a city employee was repeatedly groped on the backside, with the town hall filing a complaint on January 24. An investigation was opened the next day. Two other people have since come forward and related incidents involving "similar gestures, hands on buttocks or thighs", which allegedly took place last year. A career diplomat with the Vatican, Ventura has held the position in Paris since 2009. Before that, he served in Brazil, Bolivia and Britain before being appointed papal nuncio to Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso and Niger, Chile and then Canada. The complainants wrote to the French foreign ministry to demand that France ask the Vatican to lift his diplomatic immunity. Since the inquiry became public, La Croix said it had gathered further witness accounts from other young men close to the church alleging they too were fondled by the prelate. The paper said the incidents all took place within the past year and that none of the young men involved had filed a complaint "for a variety of reasons". There has also been a complaint filed in Ottawa by a man who made similar allegations about an incident in 2008 while Ventura was serving in Canada. Luigi Ventura (C, pictured September 2015) is facing four complaints of sexual abuse -- including an allegation he molested a junior official at Paris town hall NASA aims to send a manned mission to the moon in 2028 making it the first time humans have travelled there since 1972. The space agency said it is on the cusp of accomplishing more than weve ever been able to accomplish before, as President Trump unveiled a new budget. The budget $705m less than last year will continue building the key components of the exploration campaign that will send astronauts to the moon and beyond, NASA said. The budget includes a new Lunar Gateway space station which will orbit the moon by the mid-2020s, and budget for a manned mission to the moon by 2028. NASA is aiming to send a manned mission to the moon in 2028. Source: Getty For the first time in over 10 years, we have money in this budget for a return to the Moon with humans, NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine said. Im talking human-rated landers, compatible with Gateway, that can go back and forth to the surface of the moon. The moon is the proving ground; Mars is the horizon goal. Do you know more or have a story tip? Email: y7newsroom@yahoo7.com.au. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoo7s daily newsletter. Sign up here. Tens of thousands of Algerian protesters have dismissed President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's promise not to seek a fifth term -- but what are those in power likely to do next? Bouteflika has proposed a "national conference" to carry out reforms before scheduling elections, meaning he will stay in power until a vote takes place. What do protesters want? Algerians first took to the streets on February 22 to rally against Bouteflika's decision to stand for re-election, despite the ailing leader rarely being seen in public since a 2013 stroke. The president said Monday he would withdraw his candidacy, but angered protesters by de facto extending his fourth term indefinitely. Accusing 82-year-old Bouteflika of "tricks" to stay in power once his mandate ends, demonstrators rallied again on Friday to demand their president step down after two decades in power. The mobilisation was described as historic, with even more Algerians joining protests than the previous week when participation was estimated in the tens of thousands. What is the official response? As part of the measures announced on Monday, Bouteflika ordered a government reshuffle and replaced unpopular prime minister Ahmed Ouyahia with former interior minister Noureddine Bedoui. While the removal of Ouyahia satisfied some, the promotion of Bedoui -- who as interior minister oversaw the strict ban on demonstrations in Algiers -- has failed to convince all protesters. The new premier has promised to bring technocrats into government, including "young experts, men and women". Finding technocrats willing to join a much-scorned administration, which Bedoui has pledged would be short-term, may however prove difficult. Algerians want "radical change, not a change of puppets," one protest sign read Friday. The central demand of demonstrators has remained the same: an end to Bouteflika's rule, along with that of his entourage and the political system they put in place. Will protests dwindle? Since rallies began, authorities appear to have been playing a waiting game. But there is no sign the demonstrators are running out of steam. Algerians were traumatised by the civil war 1992 to 2002 and officials have capitalised on their fears, suggesting the regime is the only protection against a return to chaos. While this has long prevented people from taking to the streets, the current protests show they are now pushing back against the all-powerful state. Algerians of all ages have brought a celebratory atmosphere to the rallies, defying the protest ban in the capital to wave their country's flag. There are concerns among some protesters that the fatigue which accompanies the holy month of Ramadan, which begins in early May, could damp down their movement. Will there be a violent crackdown? The violent repression of protests in unlikely, as police have appeared overwhelmed in the face of such vast crowds. The demonstrations have largely been peaceful, with no incidents reported in the provinces over the past three weeks. In Algiers, there have been clashes on the sidelines at the end of each Friday protest, in which some young people have hurled stones at police. Such incidents have been notably rare given the sheer size of the protests, and volunteers in Algiers have cleaned up the streets following demonstrations. There is currently no indication that authorities will seek a violent end to demonstrations, particularly given the global attention on Algeria. Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika in November 2017 during a rare public appearance after suffering a stroke Huge crowds marched through the Algerian capital for a fourth consecutive on March 15 calling for Bouteflika's resignation Unpopular prime minister Ahmed Ouyahia was replaced by former interior minister Noureddine Bedoui (C) - a move that has failed to convince many protesters Algerians celebrated on the streets after Bouteflika announced he would not seek a fifth term in office Abdelaziz Bouteflika, shown here in 1973, served as Algerian foreign minister for more than a decade Around 45,000 climate campaigners marched in Paris Saturday to condemn what they called the French government's "inaction" on climate change, according to a media estimate. Organisers of the march through the centre of the city, which coincided with "yellow vests" riots in the west, estimated that 107,000 people took part while the police put the figure at 36,000. Organisers said more than 350,000 people turned out to march in 220 towns and cities across France. "Macron, you're screwed: the pandas are in the street," said one placard at the Paris demonstration, addressing French President Emmanuel Macron. "We are here to demonstrate against the inaction on climate change... and against the multi-billionaires in their ivory towers," 18-year-old drama student Pierre-Loup Meriaux told AFP. Many of those present were young people, some of whom had already marched the previous day in a youth protest for climate change action. On Friday, tens of thousands of young people took part in the Paris edition of the global student climate demonstration inspired by 16-year-old Swedish campaigner Greta Thunberg. They were joining marches in cities across the world Friday, as hundreds of thousands of young people skipped school to join the protests. Marches calling for government action on climate change, such as this one in Lyon, took place across France In annual report, US Department of State paints bleak picture of Nepals human rights The state of human rights in Nepal continues to remain bleak, according to the US State Departments annual report on human rights which was published on Thursday. Vocal government critic Zuzana Caputova clinched pole position in round one of Slovakia's weekend presidential election, according to near complete results of the first ballot since an investigative journalist's murder dealt a blow to the political establishment. The environmental lawyer secured 40.55 percent of the ballot after 99.88 percent of votes were counted, while runner-up European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic -- the ruling Smer-SD party's candidate -- garnered 18.66 percent, the Slovak Statistics Office said early Sunday. Caputova is on course to become Slovakia's first female president, as a new opinion poll by the Focus pollster said she would win the run-off vote against 52-year-old career diplomat Sefcovic by a landslide on March 30. The 45-year-old liberal thanked her supporters in the race for the largely ceremonial post, saying "Thank you" in Slovak as well as in the languages of the country's largest minority groups. Running on a slogan of "Stand up to evil," Caputova had appealed to voters tired of the country's main political players and vowed to restore public trust in the state. She was among tens of thousands of protesters who took to the streets after last year's killing of journalist Jan Kuciak, which shocked the nation and raised fears about media freedom and political corruption. They were the largest anti-government protests since communist times in the central European country of 5.4 million people, which spent decades behind the Iron Curtain before joining the European Union, the eurozone and NATO. "It turns out that we want our country to be decent and fair. Zuzana Caputova is exactly the person who can pull Slovakia out of the crisis," outgoing President Andrej Kiska said in a Facebook video message after the results rolled in. "Slovakia is on the right track," added the millionaire who backed Caputova. The president ratifies international treaties, appoints top judges, is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces and can also veto laws passed by parliament. Turnout was just under 50 percent. The voting did not go completely without a hitch, as a man ran out with the ballot box at the polling station in the eastern village of Medzany and threw it to the ground, scattering its contents on the street. Caputova, a deputy head of the non-parliamentary Progressive Slovakia party, cast her ballot in her southern city of Pezinok. "Slovakia is at a crossroads in terms of regaining the public's trust," she said, flanked by her daughters and partner. - 'Symbol of change' - Journalist Kuciak and his fiancee were gunned down in February 2018 just as he was about to publish a story on alleged ties between Slovak politicians and the Italian mafia. The double murder and Kuciak's last explosive report, published posthumously, plunged the country into crisis. Then prime minister Robert Fico was forced to resign but remains the leader of the populist-left Smer-SD and is a close ally of current premier Peter Pellegrini. Four people were charged with the killings. On Thursday, prosecutors said they had also charged multi-millionaire businessman Marian Kocner with ordering the murder of Kuciak, who had been investigating his business activities at the time. Kocner is believed to have ties to Smer-SD. "With this announcement, the authorities may have wanted to show just how effectively the state functions so it could help Sefcovic gain some points," Bratislava-based analyst Grigorij Meseznikov told AFP. "On the other hand, this could also be a vindication for Caputova, as she is the symbol of change." On the streets of Bratislava, several voters said they were impressed by Caputova's fresh approach. Project manager Nora Bajnokova, 33, said she backed Caputova because "she is a woman, a mother, a lawyer and not involved in active politics", while 31-year-old voter Ivan Jankovic called her "courageous and open-minded". But for 41-year-old security guard Oto, who did not give his last name, only Sefcovic was "serious" enough to be presidential material. "Sefcovic is an experienced multilingual diplomat who can immediately represent Slovakia abroad," said another voter, Milan Perunko, 54. A sports enthusiast and European Commission vice-president since 2014, Sefcovic campaigned on the slogan "Always for Slovakia". Official results will be announced at noon on Sunday. Presidential candidate Zuzana Caputova campaigned under the slogan: 'Stand up against evil, together we can do it' Voters were chosing one of 13 candidates vying for the top job The election comes after last year's shock murder of an investigative journalist probing high-level corruption Jan Kuciak was probing political corruption when he was gunned down with his fiancee his Martina Kusnirova in February 2018 Presidential candidate Maros Sefcovic is known for his toothy smile and love of sports Donald Trump signed the first veto of his presidency Friday, overriding congressional opposition to secure emergency funds to build more walls on the US-Mexico border. Trump declared in the Oval Office that he was "proud" to sign the veto. It came after he suffered an embarrassing defeat on Thursday when senators, including fellow Republicans, voted to terminate his declaration of an emergency on the Mexican border. Surrounded by law enforcement officials, senior aides and people who have lost loved ones to cross-border crime, Trump said the veto reaffirming his power to get the funds without Congress was to "defend the safety of all Americans." "The mass incursion of illegal aliens... has to end," he said. "People hate the word 'invasion' but that's what it is... Our immigration system is stretched beyond the breaking point." Trump's emergency declaration allows him to secure funding for construction of border walls after he failed to get authorization from Congress. Opponents, who accuse Trump of executive overreach and overhyping the problem on the border, could now use court challenges to halt the emergency measure. - 'Power grab' - Nancy Pelosi, the Democratic speaker of the House of Representatives and a leader in the fight to prevent Trump's wall plans, called Trump's action a "lawless power grab." "The president has chosen to continue to defy the Constitution, the Congress and the will of the American people," she said in a statement. An attempt to override the veto will be held on March 26, she announced. However, this is very unlikely to pass as a two-thirds majority is required. Trump has made border security an over-arching domestic issue in his presidency and says it will remain at the center of the agenda in his 2020 reelection bid. Although there has been a surge in arrival of families and children at the border, overall apprehensions at the frontier are down substantially from a decade or more ago. Most Republicans support Trump's position that the border is out of control. However, there were defections in Thursday's Senate vote by Republican senators angered at what they see as the president's improper seizing of power over the government purse strings -- a role reserved for the legislature. - Legal challenge - The declaration of emergency has been challenged by 16 states which sued the administration last month, contending the order was contrary to the constitution's presentment and appropriations clauses, which outline legislative procedures and define Congress as the final arbiter of public funds respectively. The lawsuit also questioned Trump's categorization of illegal border crossings as a national emergency, saying data issued by the administration itself refuted the notion. The White House says the emergency order empowers it to pull around $6.6 billion from other sources, mostly already-allocated funds in the Defense Department budget. But the complaint countered that tapping military funds would result in huge losses for the states' national guard units which would otherwise use the money to combat drugs. Should the states prevail, the case could work its way up to the Supreme Court, setting up a precedent-setting showdown on the separation of powers. US President Donald Trump displays his veto, which overrides congressional opposition to his declaration of a national emergency at the Mexican border German journalist Billy Six, detained by Venezuelan intelligence services four months ago, was freed Friday in Caracas -- but must report to the court every 15 days, an NGO confirmed. Six was arrested in northern Falcon state for allegedly photographing President Nicolas Maduro "very closely," according to free speech NGO Espacio Publico. "German journalist Billy Six is freed ... they are imposing interim measures of presentation every 15 days and prohibition to speak to the media about his case. We demand full freedom," the group said on Twitter. Six went on hunger strike in December, before lifting it pending diplomatic efforts, according to the German embassy. He then published a letter claiming he had been denied the right to defense and that he had not received the results of medical testing after suffering from dengue fever in late October. He was in the country to investigate drug trafficking, smuggling and human trafficking -- and the exodus of Venezuelans forced to migrate due to economic crisis. Billy Six was arrested in northern Falcon state for allegedly photographing President Nicolas Maduro "very closely," according to free speech NGO Espacio Publico Dozens of graves were being dug in a Christchurch cemetery on Monday for the 50 worshippers killed in two mosque attacks, as families clamoured for the return of their dead. Coroners said they hoped to let grieving relatives fulfil Islamic burial customs soon, but insisted they had to move carefully through their investigation into the horrific multiple murder. As New Zealand grappled to come to terms with the slaughter -- the worst attack on Muslims in a Western country in modern times -- tales of heroism, suffering and incredible grace emerged. Farid Ahmad, whose 44-year-old wife Husna was killed as she rushed back into a mosque to rescue him, refused to harbour hatred toward the alleged gunman, Australian-born, self-avowed white nationalist, Brenton Tarrant. "I would say to him 'I love him as a person'," Ahmad, who uses a wheelchair, told AFP. Asked if he forgave the 28-year-old suspect, who is being held in custody after appearing in court, he said: "Of course. The best thing is forgiveness, generosity, loving and caring, positivity." Husna Ahmad was among four women believed to have been killed by Tarrant, who documented his radicalisation and two years of preparations in a lengthy, meandering and conspiracy-filled far-right "manifesto". Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who was holding a cabinet meeting Monday to address gun laws and intelligence failures, was among about 30 officials who received the document ahead of the attacks. "It did not include a location, it did not include specific details," she said, adding that it was sent nine minutes before the rampage and handed to security services within two minutes. Around Christchurch, New Zealand and the world there have been vigils, prayers, memorials and messages of solidarity. An emotion-filled haka -- the Maori war dance -- was performed by a New Zealand biker gang to honour the Christchurch dead. The country remained on high alert, with police on Sunday briefly closing an airport in the southern city of Dunedin -- where Tarrant had lived -- after an unidentified package was spotted on the airfield. The airport re-opened a few hours later. In Australia, counter-terrorism police searched two homes early Monday, both near the town of Grafton where Tarrant grew up. "The primary aim of the activity is to formally obtain material that may assist New Zealand police in their ongoing investigation," a police statement said. - Generations - Islamic custom dictates that the dead should be buried within 24 hours, but strained authorities -- desperate to make sure no mistakes are made or the complex investigation harmed -- said a quick process was difficult. "All of the deceased have had a CT scan, their fingerprints are taken, the property they were wearing or had with them is removed," said Chief Coroner Deborah Marshall, adding that dental impressions were taken and post-mortems performed. Ardern said she expected all the dead would have been returned to their families by Wednesday. An AFP reporter early Monday saw workers and excavators preparing dozens of graves in Christchurch cemetery, though it was unclear when the funerals might start. "It's a massacre, what else do they need to know?," said school principal Sheikh Amjad Ali, expressing frustration over the wait for loved ones' remains. The dead from Friday's attack span generations, aged between three and 77, according to a list circulated among relatives. Some victims came from the neighbourhood, others from as far afield as Egypt. At least two of the dead came from the same family -- a father and son. Delhi said Sunday that five of its nationals were killed, while Pakistan said nine of its citizens were among the dead, including one man who died trying to rush Tarrant. - Pre-schooler fights for life - Authorities said 34 people remained in hospital. Among those fighting for their lives is four-year-old Alin Alsati. The pre-schooler was praying alongside her father Wasseim at the Al Noor mosque when she was shot at least three times. Her father, who was also shot, recently emigrated to New Zealand from Jordan. The number of dead and injured could have been higher, were it not for people such as Afghan refugee Abdul Aziz. Aziz was at the Linwood mosque with his four sons when he rushed the attacker armed with the only weapon he could find -- a hand-held credit card machine. He then picked up an empty shotgun discarded by the gunman and shouted "come on here" in an effort to draw him away from his sons and the other worshippers. "I just wanted to save as much lives as I could, even if I lose my life," he told AFP. - Gun policy on agenda - The mosque attacks have shaken this usually peaceful country, which prides itself on welcoming refugees fleeing violence or persecution. Ardern has said she would use the cabinet meeting to press for a ban on semi-automatic weapons of the type used by Tarrant. A series of reform attempts in recent years have failed. Ardern also wants answers from social media giants over the livestreaming of the carnage. Facebook said it had removed 1.5 million videos of the attack around the world in the first 24 hours. People in Christchurch lay flowers in tribute to those killed in Friday's attack Residents pay their respects by placing flowers for the victims of the mosques attacks in Christchurch at the Masjid Umar mosque in Auckland on March 17, 2019 Police forensic officers are carrying out painstaking work at the Dean Avenue mosque There has been an outpouring of grief in the wake of the attack Afghan refugee and local resident Abdul Aziz chased the gunman with the only weapon he could find -- a hand-held credit card machine In October, a Cherry Creek, Colorado, parents group calling itself Pornography is Not Education (PINE) filed a lawsuit that charged a national educational database firm as well as a Colorado school library group with knowingly providing sexually explicit and obscene materials to school children. But late last month, PINE and the right-wing public interest law firm representing the parents, The Thomas More Society, pulled their lawsuit, saying in essence that they were afraid they would lose. In a statement, the More firm said that the parents feared being forced to pay legal fees for the defendants, the database company EBSCO and the Colorado Library Consortium, in the event of a legal defeat, according to The Denver Post. The parents group agreed to dismiss the lawsuit with prejudice, which means that they give up the right to sue again over the same allegations. The library consortium said it had already spent $35,000 defending the lawsuit, according to The Post, and that pressure from the parents group caused it to lose access to several thousand educational resources in the EBSCO database. Money and time spent on [the consortiums] legal defense in this frivolous lawsuit could have been better used to support schools, libraries and our communities, Consortium Executive Director Jim Duncan said, in a written statement. Earlier, Carol Smith, president of the Colorado Association of Libraries, accused the parents group of waging a personal crusade to impose one particular worldview upon the entire community, and the targets of their campaign extend well beyond Colorado, The Post reported. The lawsuit had claimed that schoolkids who innocently clicked on links in the EBSCO database were taken to sites displaying bondage and other pornographic material. But EBSCO denied those allegations. We are appalled by the tenor of the allegations related to our intent and the inaccuracies to statements clearly made in absence of factual information, the company said in a statement. Their true aim is to censor all electronic materials from school and public libraries, said Smith. The civil liberties group, the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund, said in a statement that the true goal of the PINE lawsuit was to impose censorship by having figured out a way to financially punish those that stand up and fight for freedom of information." "Opponents of free speech have decided that they can chill speech without actually censoring anything, just by making the consequences of coming across their radar so expensive, that many institutions will not purchase databases like EBSCO in the future," CBDLF said. Photo by Bradipo10/Wikimedia Commons Public Domain Take Chand outfit into confidence for talks: Congress The Nepali Congress has called on the government to take into confidence the Communist Party of Nepal, led by Netra Bikram Chand, and convince them to come to the negotiating table. First Ever Find on Washington Coast: Oregon Crew Discovers Pacific Snake Eel Published 03/15/2019 at 7:53 PM PDT By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Seaside, Oregon) A new or certainly rare find on the Pacific Northwest coast: a Pacific Snake Eel (Ophichthus triserialis). A crew from the Oregon coasts Marine Mammal Stranding Network helped rescue the odd and far-flung creature on Thursday, found languishing in the sands on the Long Beach Peninsula of the southern Washington coast. (Photos courtesy Seaside Aquarium). Pacific snake eels reside nowhere near the Oregon coast: theyre normally found around Peru and north of there, only making it as far north as southern California with any regularity. To date, there are only three recorded incidents of these being found in Oregon. Whats even more remarkable is that rescuers from Seaside Aquarium found it alive and were able to bring the creature back to their facility. The aquariums Tiffany Boothe said such a creature has never been found this far north, however. Being part of the Southern Washington/ Northern Oregon Marine Mammal Stranding Network, we are used to getting strange calls at all hours, she said. Yesterday evening at 6:00 p.m. we received a call about a strange animal buried in the sand on the Long Beach Peninsula. We were very surprised to find out that it was a Pacific Snake Eel (Ophichthus triserialis) an animal which has never been seen on the Washington coast. Candace Woodbury found the fish buried in the sand but far from the waters edge. Concerned and curious about what type of fish is was, she called the Seaside Aquarium. Pacific snake eels live at a depth of about 25 to 500 feet. They were initially sent some pictures of the creature and immediately knew this was unusual. Since it was buried in the sand, it was clear the eel had been out of the water for some time. When we arrived, we uncovered the fish which was remarkably still alive and got it into sea water, Boothe said. Too lethargic to be returned to the sea, we decided to bring it back to the Aquarium. The eel is currently in an isolated in a tank which we are slowly warming to make the eel more comfortable. There is some damage on its pectoral fins that we are hoping will heal. Woodbury created a video of the rescue, showing aquarium manager Keith Chandler slowly digging the eel out of the sand. Rather dramatically, it starts to move, showing signs of life to the cheers of those around it. (See the video below) In April of 2017, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) talked about the recorded first-ever known appearance of this eel on the Oregon coast. One had washed up in January of that year; the second in April. Before that, the only known appearance of the species was back in 1975. Seaside Aquarium - on the Prom in Seaside. 503-738-6211. Oregon Coast Lodgings in this area - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on BeachConnection.net All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright BeachConnection.net Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Criminalize the "promotion or sale of sex tourism services," which, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control, is "travel planned specifically for the purpose of sex, generally to a country where prostitution is legal." Criminalize "buyer conduct in instances of sexual servitude," for "johns" who subject, maintain, or obtain another person for the purpose of sexual servitude. Provide a civil cause of action for human trafficking victims, including a provision to "assess the defendant the reasonable costs and expenses, including attorneys fees," of the plaintiff. Fund the N.C. Human Trafficking Commission with $250,000 for operational expenses. This isn't Taken.Unlike the portrayals popularized by Liam Neeson's 2008 film thriller, human trafficking victims are rarely snatched during vacation getaways or from coffee shops, and they are rarely sympathetic characters with squeaky clean backgrounds, Libby Coles, chairwoman of the North Carolina Human Trafficking Commission, told Carolina Journal.This year, Coles and the trafficking commission have introduced statewide legislation that, among many other things, would provide post-conviction relief for survivors who are charged with minor crimes while being trafficked.Often, victims of sex and labor trafficking come from criminal backgrounds - or are coerced into crime by their traffickers. Physical and psychological trauma can lead to acts of prostitution, drug sales or drug use, theft, gang activity, resisting arrest, and much more.The consequences are crippling, Coles said, and make it tough for survivors to get jobs, housing, licenses, and in some cases, immigration relief.House Bill 198, "Human Trafficking Commission Recommendations," would expunge lesser offenses from victims' records. Class A through G felonies , which span violent crimes such as murder, rape, kidnapping, and robbery, wouldn't be erased. The bill's primary sponsors are Reps. Ted Davis, R-New Hanover; Sarah Stevens, R-Wilkes; Steve Jarvis, R-Davidson; and Jerry Carter, R-Rockingham.The only offense that can be expunged under current state law is prostitution, said Ryan Boyce, senior counsel for policy at the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts, who's advising the human trafficking commission.The law must be expanded, he said, since trafficking rings weave a wide and sticky criminal web.Last year, the General Assembly passed Senate Bill 162, the Human Trafficking Restorative Justice Act . Among other things, it expanded the definition of "victim" to include anyone subjected to human trafficking, and created an affirmative defense to trafficking offenses committed by victimsH.B. 198 builds on that, Boyce said, adding to the list of offenses that can be expunged, and giving immediate relief to those who qualify. Victims will face no waiting period, and pay no filing fees.The law is broad enough to help victims, but narrow enough to ensure justice is served, Boyce said. Under the legislation, courts would have discretion to weigh evidence, and trafficking survivors would have to prove their victim status in conjunction with their criminal records.Victims who believe their trafficker is a boyfriend, spouse, or parent, rarely self-identify as a trafficking victim in court and often appear uncooperative - or even hostile, Coles said. Those people, though not consistent with the Hollywood portrayals, still deserve the chance to free themselves.she said.Companion legislation, Senate Bill 200 , has also been introduced. The House Judiciary Committee is expected to hear H.B. 198 this week.According to statistics provided by Polaris Project's National Human Trafficking Hotline, North Carolina ranked as the eighth worst states for human trafficking in 2017, with a reported 221 cases. The state dropped to the 11th spot last year, with roughly 126 cases reported to Polaris. The ranking provides little insight into the state's actual number of trafficking cases, since hotline data is based solely on number of calls emails, and web forms, and is representative only of how many people are knowledgeable of the hotline. Have Sheriff Offices in North Carolina, possibly even Beaufort County's Sheriff Office, become too political in the discharging of their sworn constitutional duties? No, the sheriff is a constitutional officer. Yes, the Sheriff Office, on strong occasion, often reverts back to political patronage in the dispensation of their sworn constitutional duties. Prithvi Man Shrestha is a political reporter for The Kathmandu Post, covering the governance-related issues including corruption and irregularities in the government machinery. Before joining The Kathmandu Post in 2009, he worked at nepalnews.com and Rising Nepal primarily covering the issues of political and economic affairs for three years. Liberal Politics from the Heart of Bluegrass Country Investigative tech journalist Joseph Menn's (previously) next book is a history of the Cult of the Dead Cow (previously) the legendary hacker/prankster group that is considered to be "America's oldest hacking group." In a characteristically excellent Reuters story excerpted from the book, Menn reveals for the first time that Democratic presidential nomination hopeful Beto O'Rourke was an early member of the cDc under the handle "Psychedelic Warlord," having run a cDc BBS, contributed weird and sometimes unhinged essays and short stories (textfiles, or t-files) to the group's zines, and even blazed trail by sponsoring the group's first female member. Many of O'Rourke's t-files are still online: A Feature on MONEY Today's Monster, a 1987 essay about the end of money and the erasure of class distinctions; 1988's Visions From The Last Crusade, a gory short-story; and 1988's INTERVIEW WITH NEO-NAZI 'AUSDERAU', a transcription of a debate with a fascist which showcases O'Rourke's skillful argumentation. O'Rourke has admitted that during his tenure with cDc he engaged in low-level hacker crimes like toll-fraud (in order to make free long-distance calls to BBSes) and software piracy. O'Rourke and his old friends say his stint as a fledgling hacker fed into his subsequent work in El Paso as a software entrepreneur and alternative press publisher, which led in turn to successful long-shot runs at the city council and then Congress, where he unseated an incumbent Democrat. Politically, O'Rourke has taken some conventional liberal positions, supporting abortion rights and opposing a wall on the Mexican border. But he takes a libertarian view on other issues, faulting excessive regulation and siding with businesses in congressional votes on financial industry oversight and taxes. His more conservative positions have drawn fire from Democrats who see him as too friendly with Republicans and corporations. His more progressive votes and punk-rock past helped his recent opponent, Republican Sen. Ted Cruz, portray O'Rourke as too radical for socially conservative Texas. But the political balance allows him to appeal to both main strands of political thought in Silicon Valley a key source of campaign money and cultural influence. Beto O'Rourke's secret membership in America's oldest hacking group [Joseph Menn/Reuters] Mzansi should prepare for yet another fuel price increase in April. The Automobile Association of South Africa announced that petrol could go up by R1.18 per litre and diesel could increase with 90c per litre. PAY ATTENTION: Click See First under the Following tab to see Briefly.co.za News on your News Feed! April will see another fuel price hike in South Africa and it's going to be a big one. This increase is expected to wreak havoc on drivers and consumers. The Automobile Association (AA) of South Africa warned of this big fuel spike, according to a report by The South African. South Africans can expect to pay about R1.18 more per litre of petrol and about 90c more per litre of diesel after the increase. PAY ATTENTION: Do you want to know what's trending on Briefly.co.za? Join our WhatsApp group today. Briefly.co.za learned that the AA stated that South Africa was already nearing an increase, partly thanks to the weakened rand. READ ALSO: 24 dead and over 100 missing: Cyclone Idai wreaks havoc in Zim The introduction of revised fuel levies pushed things over the brink, and now a hike won't likely be avoided. The projected basic fuel price increase is being billed as 98 cents for petrol, 70 cents for diesel and 63 cents for illuminating paraffin. But, increases to the fuel levies will push the prices at the pumps even higher when they come into effect in April. PAY ATTENTION: 15 Memorable Photos From The Amazing Baby Shower Of Meghan Markle Motorists are likely to feel bitter after the April increase, which is not a bad April Fools' joke. 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 1. Yes. The Schlueter Group has extensive experience and contacts. Its a good investment. 2. Yes. The firms namesake has a background as a legislator and knows Killeen well. 3. No. The expenditure is a waste of money. Our lawmakers should be doing that work. 4. No. The contract should be shorter, incentivized and based on performance benchmarks. 5. Unsure. Its not always easy to quantify the outcomes of lobbying efforts. Vote View Results What Your Girl Wants: An Easter Egg Made Out of Cheese Who Needs a Chocolate Easter Egg When You Can Have a Cheese One?! If you're looking to spice things up this Easter, or just happen to prefer the taste of cheese to the usual chocolate, Sainsbury has a solution. They call it the "Cheester Egg," and it's a 5 (about $6.50 in American dollars) treat that slots somewhere between a clever Easter gag and a much-appreciated alternative to the usual chocolate eggs. RELATED: 7 Desserts You Shouldn't Be Eating Each egg is made by Butler's Farmhouse Cheeses, from 120g of cheddar from Lancashire farms (England, let it be said, is known for making a good cheddar), which should make each one filling and delicious without being too filling. More than that, its texture is soft, which means you can spread it over a morning toast or mid-day crackers, if the idea of biting into a giant egg doesn't appeal to you. The eggs will go on sale on April 10, at Sainsbury supermarkets across the United Kingdom, or on the Easter section of Sainsbury's website. Emma Garvey, the head cheese buyer for the supermarket chain, explained their appeal: Were always looking for new and unique products to offer to our customers, especially during gifting periods throughout the year when people are on the lookout for something special to give their loved ones. Unfortunately, American and Canadian gluttons or good boyfriends looking to score points with their significant others will have to make the trek across the Atlantic to smuggle one state-side. You Might Also Dig: Plane on runway On March 10, 2019, Ethiopia Airlines Flight 302 crashed six minutes after takeoff. The aircraft was a Boeing 737 MAX 8. Investigators are racing to determine the cause of the deadliest crash in the history of the airline. This was the second deadly crash to involve the Boeing 737 MAX 8 over the past six months. On October 29, 2018, Lion Air Flight 610 crashed into the Java Sea 12 minutes after takeoff, killing all 189 passengers and crew. Air travel posted the safest year on record in 2017, which is more impressive considering the increase in passenger traffic. The Ethiopia Airlines crash inspired a rush of countries to ground the Boeing 737 MAX 8 until more information was revealed in the investigation. The 737 MAX 8 has heavier and more fuel-efficient engines, which causes the aircraft to pitch upwards after takeoff. In order to make up for this, Boeing installed the MAX 8 with the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS). The program tilts the nose downward, ostensibly to prevent the aircraft from stalling. In the case of Lion Air Flight 610, the pilots lost control of the aircraft due to a faulty angle of attack sensor. Investigators have yet to determine what caused the Ethiopia Airlines crash, but the flight trajectory is eerily reminiscent of the Lion Air tragedy. China, Indonesia, and Ethiopia grounded the 737 MAX 8 on March 11, 2019. Europe quickly followed suit. Finally, on March 13, Canada and the United States elected to err on the side of caution and grounded the aircraft. Air Canada (TSX:AC)(TSX:AC.B) operates 24 737 MAX 8s out of a fleet of 400. The company has said that the aircraft will be grounded for at least the next three weeks. Air Canada stock has dropped 3.3% over the past week as of close on March 14. Anxiety over the aircraft has rattled the North American industry. Shares of Air Canada dropping after the accident may seem like an overreaction, but the stock has hovered around overbought territory for several weeks. Story continues WestJet Airlines (TSX:WJA) operates 13 737 MAX 8s out of a fleet of 175 aircraft. The company said that roughly 1,200 of its passengers have been impacted by the grounding so far. A multi-week disruption is not catastrophic, but WestJet and other airlines are already facing some headwinds to begin the year. Rising jet fuel costs are a concern after airlines enjoyed several years of discounts. WestJet stock has dropped 3.1% over the past week. Investigations into airline disasters can take months or even years. Tweaks are certain to be made to the 737 MAX 8 no matter how the investigation pans out. Does that mean investors should buy into this dip at Air Canada and WestJet? Air Canada is still trading at the high end of its 52-week range and remains a pricey buy in the middle of March. WestJet boasts a more favourable price, but the company has posted disappointing earnings of late. Investors are better off waiting on the sidelines in the early spring. More reading Fool contributor Ambrose O'Callaghan has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fools purpose is to help the world invest, better. Click here now for your free subscription to Take Stock, The Motley Fool Canadas free investing newsletter. Packed with stock ideas and investing advice, it is essential reading for anyone looking to build and grow their wealth in the years ahead. Motley Fool Canada 2019 Business accounting concept, Business man using calculator with computer laptop, budget and loan paper in office. For us finance nerds, there are few days more exciting than when we make our annual TFSA contribution. The only thing more interesting is deciding what to do with the capital. There are dozens of excellent Canadian blue-chip stocks, all trading at reasonable valuations. And there are plenty growth stocks with exciting prospects and value stocks featuring cheap assets that are hard to ignore. No matter what kind of investor you are, theres something for everyone out there. Its hard to narrow it down, but I think Ive done it. Here are the two stocks Ive recently added to my TFSA. Laurentian Bank I already owned a position in Laurentian Bank of Canada (TSX:LB), the seventh-largest Canadian bank by assets. After the company missed earnings expectations and shares slumped to just over $40 each, I just couldnt help myself. I averaged down and doubled my position. Lets first talk about those disappointing earnings, which were almost solely caused by a slump in the banks capital markets division, a part of the company that isnt exactly known for consistency. Besides, the preceding quarter was a pretty tough one for Canadian stocks. Its therefore not surprising the capital markets division would underperform in such an environment. The other concern plaguing the company is also exaggerated, at least in this analysts opinion. Laurentian is investing heavily into technology in hopes that investment can increase profitability. Part of this process is to convert many of the banks existing branches into locations that mostly just offer loans and investment management, rather than traditional bank branches. The problem is most of Laurentians retail bank employees are part of a union. The market assumes any deal with the union will be costly, but Im confident the end result wont be so bad. While investors wait for these fixable issues to clear themselves up, Laurentian shares are available at a nice valuation. Shares trade at just over nine times forward earnings, which is comfortably cheaper than the banks larger competitors. The stock also sits under book value. Story continues Oh, and the company pays a 6.3% dividend, a payout that has been raised annually since 2008. RioCan RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust (TSX:REI.UN) is in the middle of a transformation and the market doesnt seem to be giving the company much credit for it. Once investors figure out whats going on, Im confident shares will head higher. RioCans days of strictly owning retail locations are over. The company has aggressive plans to add various mixed-use buildings to its portfolio, with development projects planned across Canada. These projects will take existing retail space and add either office towers or apartments. One example is the companys Brentwood Village development in Calgary. The project, which is located right on Calgarys C-Train mass transit system, will include some 10,000 square feet of new retail space along with 163 residential units and is slated for completion in 2020. When completed about a decade from now, the current development portfolio will add approximately 22 million square feet to RioCans current leasable space of just over 39 million square feet. And even though RioCan already offers investors a strong 97% occupancy rate, adding a residential component to the portfolio will further stabilize it. Finally, we have the dividend. RioCan currently pays investors $0.12 per share on a monthly basis, good enough for a 5.6% yield. Remember, RioCan has dipped its payout ratio below 80% of funds from operations, which means investors may very well see a small dividend increase soon. The bottom line Both RioCan and Laurentian Bank check off a lot of boxes. Each pays a nice dividend. Both stocks are also moderately undervalued, and both have solid growth prospects. I plan to own each of these stocks for a very long time. Perhaps its time for you to buy, too. More reading Fool contributor Nelson Smith owns shares of LAURENTIAN BANK and RIOCAN REAL EST UN. The Motley Fools purpose is to help the world invest, better. Click here now for your free subscription to Take Stock, The Motley Fool Canadas free investing newsletter. Packed with stock ideas and investing advice, it is essential reading for anyone looking to build and grow their wealth in the years ahead. Motley Fool Canada 2019 Gold bullion on a chart In January, I wrote how Guyana Goldfields (TSX:GUY) could have 1,000% upside in 2019. Specifically, I noted how the stock trades at a heavy discount to its competitors, at just 0.2 times its net asset value. Since my article was published, shares have sunk a further 16%. Is there still massive upside to Guyana stock this year or are shares a classic value trap? Consider the latest news In my last article, I highlighted how index rebalancing unfairly and indiscriminately pressured shares. In 2017, an $18 billion ETF sold its stakes of junior miners, including Guyana Goldfields. One research report summed up the damage perfectly: The juice that used to be provided by the smaller miners is now either gone or at least largely diluted. That year, shares fell 50%, providing what appeared to be a structural buying opportunity due to forced selling. Over the past 12 months, however, shares have continued to fall from $5 to just $1.50. Whats going on? In 2018, the companys management team was completely replaced following inaccurate estimates by the previous regime. The companys resource model, built in 2012, made a number of errors that overinflated the companys reserves. Guyana is currently completing a resource model review, which should be completed in March of 2019. Until that new resource model is released, shares will remain heavily discounted. Looking at the assumptions, however, theres still reason to believe shares could re-rate quickly. Is this story broken? Originally, the companys Aurora mine reportedly had the highest grades of gold in the industry, with 2.9 g/t AuEq. Competitors including Yamana Gold, Tahoe Resources, and Kinross Gold have grades of around 0.7 g/t AuEq. In Guyanas old resource model, it appears as if its highest-grade areas, including Rorys Knoll, were improperly extrapolated into areas with lower-grade deposits. Still, the 2.9 g/t AuEq figure leaves plenty of room for error. Even a 75% haircut to those estimates would result in grade densities similar to Guyanas biggest peers. Story continues All-in sustaining costs are still expected to be between US$1,025 and US$1,050 per ounce, so Guyana can still be profitable after the new resource model is released. With $82 million in cash and just $40 million in debt, the company is far from struggling to survive, making its heavy discount compared to both its peer average and asset value appear overdone. When the resource model is completed in March, it should deliver bad news, but the current valuation is pricing in horrendous news. Keep it simple Buying shares of Guyana is a simple probability bet. Today, the market is in wait-and-see mode, refusing to assign any sort of reasonable valuation until more clarity is achieved regarding the resource model. Even if revised estimates are significantly lower than 2012s projections, that risk looks already priced in. There may not be 1,000% upside anymore, but a move of 100% or more could occur quickly when the stock re-rates. Guyana shares still seem like a reasonable bet just keep its position size commensurate with a speculative security. More reading Fool contributor Ryan Vanzo has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fools purpose is to help the world invest, better. Click here now for your free subscription to Take Stock, The Motley Fool Canadas free investing newsletter. Packed with stock ideas and investing advice, it is essential reading for anyone looking to build and grow their wealth in the years ahead. Motley Fool Canada 2019 After four years of planning, two Sikh families from Afghanistan are finding refuge in B.C. They landed in Vancouver's airport Thursday morning, having fled religious persecution by the Taliban in their home country. "I am so happy to be here," said Shamlal Khalsa, who arrived with his wife and four children. "[It] was so bad in Afghanistan, our life." Khalsa says the Taliban and other Islamic jihadists forced Sikhs to change their religion and cut their children's hair. Women often didn't feel comfortable leaving their homes, he added. The Taliban also compelled them to pay jizya taxes, a levy on non-Muslim residents, he says. Both families have been living in India since 2015 after fleeing Afghanistan. Tina Lovgreen/CBC News A promise fulfilled The families are being privately sponsored by the Manmeet Singh Bhullar Foundation which was created in 2015 by the late Calgary-Greenway MLA Manmeet Bhullar. Bhullar died in a car accident while helping a stranded driver in a snowstorm in November 2015, but the foundation continued his mission. "This was a project so deeply important to my brother," said Tarjinder Bhullar, his sister. "Up until his passing ... this consumed him in terms of finding any and every avenue to get these people out of Afghanistan." She says Manmeet was adamant about helping families facing religious persecution by the Taliban and getting them to Canada for a fresh start. Tina Lovgreen/CBC News Four years later, those dreams are coming to fruition. "[Being able to] provide these families with essentially a blank slate to start their own Canadian dream it's pretty impossible to put that into exact words," she told Stephen Quinn, the host of CBC's The Early Edition. At the airport, Manmeet's father waited to greet the families, wearing his son's tie. "I'm missing him," said Baljinder Bhullar, the significance of this day audible in his wavering voice. "I wish he can see, but thanks God, his promise, his dream is coming true. I'm happy that I'm able to carry on." The Khalsa family is one of 65 who will come to Canada through private-sponsorship by the foundation. Hundreds of people gathered in Calgary Friday evening to pay their respects to those injured and killed in a double mosque attack in New Zealand. Calgarians flooded City Hall, holding signs and candles, and calling for change. Rubina Mir said attending the vigil was her way of showing solidarity and love for the people who died in the attacks. "It's a very sad day for everyone, for every human being under this sun. I think it's very sad that we have to go through this every time," Mir said. "We want to let New Zealand and the people of the world know that we stand with you." James Young/CBC The vigil's organizer, Saima Jamal, said it's important that people don't just attend the vigil they need to show their intolerance of racism. She called on the crowd to write officials at all levels of government, demanding that they and law enforcement take right-wing radicalization seriously. "You see social media memes that are anti-Muslim. Call them out, report them, delete them," Jamal said. "I don't want want this to just be a prayer vigil, this is going to be a vigil with purpose." Some Calgary Muslims were afraid to go to their mosques Friday, while others warned each other to be careful if they attend prayer services, as the community reels in reaction to the deadly shootings at New Zealand mosques. Forty-nine people were killed and another 48 injured in shootings at two mosques filled with worshippers during Friday prayers in Christchurch, in what that country's prime minister called "one of New Zealand's darkest days." An Australian man in his 20s was arrested and has been charged with murder. Two other suspects were in custody while police worked to determine what role they played. Jamal says any attack on the Muslim community no matter where in the world feels personal. "I was just completely devastated. I couldn't believe how much hate there was for these people going to Friday prayer. I mean I go every Friday to a mosque for prayers and this could have been any one of us." Story continues Jeff McIntosh/The Canadian Press Jamal says she's hearing from members of Calgary's Muslim community who are feeling afraid to go to mosque for Friday prayers. "People are already scared. There are people saying things like, 'Be careful when you go to the mosque today, be vigilant, pray pray hard.' People are going to be sad, people are going to flock to the mosque," she said. Calgary police say they are moved by the tragedy and keeping the situation top of mind, but haven't heard of any specific threats in Calgary. At this point, there is no plan to have officers patrol mosques in Calgary like forces have in some other Canadian cities. Syed Soharwardy, head of the Islamic Supreme Council of Canada (ISCC), tweeted that his organization and Muslims Against Terrorism (MAT) strongly condemn the attacks. He called on the United Nations and all governments to declare Islamophobia a hate crime. The Muslim Council of Calgary issued a release condemning the shootings. "We ask the Muslim community to please be patient, be vigilant and pray for all in these testing times," the council said. "This is an attack on basic human values, and we need to stand in solidarity with all to condemn this heinous attack." The council is holding a special Friday prayer at the Akram Jomaa Islamic Centre, 2624 37th Ave. N.E. The sermon will start at 1:30 p.m., followed by prayers at 2 p.m. At 2:15 p.m., Sheikh Jamal Hammoud will hold a press conference. Peace activist Riyaz Khawaja, president of the Hussaini Association of Calgary, said he was at his southeast Calgary mosque when they heard about the shootings. CBC "It was really devastating and everybody was in pain and everyone was sad," he said. "This hate and bigotry has to be stopped." The Calgary Interfaith Council issued a statement condemning the attacks as "a desecration of the fundamental right to practise one's religion." "We call upon our fellow Calgarians to raise their voices of repudiation of hatred and violence and to reach out to the Muslim community with words and acts of condolence in this distressing moment," the council said. Province moves forward with hate crimes unit On Friday, Premier Rachel Notley said the province would be moving forward with establishing a new provincial hate crimes unit. "We all know that hate exists, before the tragic, tragic event that happened in New Zealand. We must do our work well before those tragedies and acts of terror occur," Notley said. The unit will increase the amount of specialized training Alberta police and law enforcement receive on hate crimes, a release from the province said. It will also assemble specialists to investigate hate crimes and hate groups in Alberta. The unit was previously recommended in a June 2018 report called Taking Action Against Racism. Condolences and condemnation CBC Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi tweeted: "Once again, my heart breaks. Not because I am Muslim, but because I am human. But as we condemn the horrific terrorist act in New Zealand, we also must commit ourselves to fighting hatred wherever we find it. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un. We belong to God to him we return." United Conservative Party Leader Jason Kenney tweeted: "Unthinkably evil to shoot people while they pray. An unspeakable crime not only against human life, but also the freedom of religion. Prayers for the survivors and the loved ones of those attacked." And Alberta Liberal Leader David Khan said in a statement he was shocked and horrified by the attacks, calling them "an assault on humanity throughout the world." James Young/CBC Alberta Party leader Stephen Mandel tweeted that the tragedy in Christchurch "reminds us that even in the most peaceful places, anger, hate and bigotry still exist. Condolences from my family and myself to all those affected by this terrible tragedy." Imam Zahid Abid of the Baitun Nur mosque in northeast Calgary, who expressed his condolences on behalf of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, said the attacks do not reflect the beliefs of the greater population in New Zealand, or anywhere. "Our sympathies are with them. Our prayers are with them," he said. There's a lot of fear within the community here as well, especially as it is Friday," he added. "But I think we should not be afraid. We should take a stand, be brave." From an automated pain detection system to an app that can help find people with dementia who wander off, the future of elder care may be high tech. An elder tech conference at Regina's Wascana Rehab Wednesday and Thursday brought together researchers from across Canada for demonstrations of new technology, . Thomas Hadjistavropoulos, director of the Center on Aging and Health at the University of Regina, said he believes the solutions to diseases of old age, such as dementia, are more likely to come from engineering and technology development than from the health sciences. "Right now I don't believe we're anywhere close to finding a cure for dementia and Alzheimer's disease but we have technologies that can help people extend the years of their life that are good quality years," Hadjistavropoulos said. Kirk Fraser/CBC A national organization called the AGE-WELL Network hosted the event. The network is funded by the federal government and it's mandate is to create technologies and services that benefit older adults and caregivers. They're working with older adults to develop the technology, Hadjistavropoulos said. "They're the ones who tell us about the problems they're facing; we are proposing solutions to them and then we're modifying the solutions according to the input that they give us when the technology is developed." We have technologies that can help people extend the years of their life that are good quality years. - Thomas Hadjistavropoulos, director of the Center on Aging and Health at the University of Regina The automated pain detection system could help identify facial expressions in older adults with dementia, helping caregivers know whether they are in pain. Another technology demonstrated was intelligent lighting designed to prevent falls. The lights would allow people to see when they get out of bed at night but wouldn't be so bright that they interfere with circadian rhythms. Story continues Hadjistavropoulos said these technologies work even if the older adults using them aren't tech savvy. "Some of our technologies, such as home sensor technologies to detect falls, are fully automated and they don't require any use or involvement." 'Serious games' One of the projects is an app that community volunteers can sign up for to receive alerts about older adults who may have wandered off. "It's difficult to tell when an older person is lost or needs help because they look like any citizen in the community," said Lili Lui, a presenter at the event and an occupational therapist from the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Alberta. Another project demonstrated at the event were what Lui called "serious games." "We call them serious because there's a therapeutic value to these games." For people with dementia, a digital version of whack-a-mole can give caregivers a better sense of how the elder is doing based on their performance. While many of the seniors today might not be comfortable with technology, Liu said it's going to become more common as the next generation of seniors comes up. (Reuters) - More than 300 Boeing 737 MAX 8 and MAX 9 passenger jets around the world have been taken out of service following two fatal crashes over the past five months in Ethiopia and Indonesia that killed almost 350 people in all. The causes of both crashes are still under investigation. One of the biggest unanswered questions: Was the plane's software to blame? WHAT WE KNOW - Boeing has stopped delivery of all new MAX jets to its customers. - Satellite data gathered from the Ethiopian Airlines flight and evidence from the crash site showed similarities with a Lion Air accident in Indonesia, which prompted the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration to ground all Boeing MAX jets in service. - Investigators have found a piece of a stabilizer in the wreckage of the Ethiopian jet with the trim set in an unusual position similar to that of the Lion Air plane, two sources familiar with the matter said. - The pilot of the Ethiopian Airlines flight had reported internal control problems and received permission to return. The pilot of the Lion Air flight had also asked to return not along after taking off from Jakarta. - Technical analysis of the black boxes from the crashed Ethiopian Airlines jet is set for Friday in France. It will take several days to complete the first readings from the boxes, French aviation officials said. The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board is sending investigators to assist and an Ethiopian team arrived in Paris on Friday. - The Ethiopan Airlines plane requested permission to return to Addis Ababa airport three minutes after takeoff as it accelerated to abnormal speed, the New York Times reported. - Indonesia plans to move up by about a month the release of an investigation report on the Lion Air crash, which killed all 189 on board, its transport safety committee said on Friday. It now plans to release the report between July and August, ahead of its previous schedule of between August and September. Story continues - Following the Lion Air crash in October, Boeing said it was preparing a software upgrade for the jets. After the Ethiopia crash, the company said it would deploy that upgrade across the fleet in the coming weeks. - Boeing maintains its new, fuel-efficient jets are safe, but supported the FAA decision to ground them. Fearing a financial hit and brand damage, investors have wiped about $26 billion off the company's market value. - U.S. lawmakers said the planes could be grounded for weeks to upgrade the software and install it in every plane. - No lawsuits have been filed since the crash of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, but some plaintiffs' lawyers said they expect that Boeing will be sued in the United States. WHAT'S NEXT? - Investigators are expected to release a preliminary report based on information they glean from the data and cockpit recordings captured by the two black boxes. - A decision will be made by countries about whether and when to lift the grounding of the Boeing jets based on that information. (Compiled by Ben Klayman and Sayantani Ghosh; Editing by Bill Rigby and Stephen Coates) By Rupam Jain and Rod Nickel KABUL (Reuters) - At a dinner party in Kabul's high-security "green zone" in March, a senior European diplomat poured himself a glass of red wine and pulled up a photograph on his iPhone. Released by Qatar's foreign ministry on Feb. 25, it showed seven Qatari officials alongside U.S. and Taliban negotiators as talks on ending the 17-year-old war in Afghanistan had restarted in the Gulf state the previous day. "If Qatari officials can be at the negotiating table, then how did the U.S. forget to invite its key allies who have fought the Afghan war since 2001?" said the diplomat, whose nation has contributed hundreds of troops to NATO's mission in the country. "We continue to pour millions of dollars as an act of solidarity, but when it comes to peace talks, the U.S. decided to go solo." Reuters spoke with 10 diplomats from countries spanning three continents that are among the 39 that provide military personnel to the NATO training operation, known as Resolute Support, in Afghanistan, and those that provide development aid. (graphic: https://graphics.reuters.com/NATO-SUMMIT-AFGHANISTAN/0100908D0G1/index.html) Many of those countries are significant, consistent donors. Most of the diplomats spoke on condition of anonymity, citing the sensitivity of the situation. The diplomats interviewed said their governments were broadly rethinking their commitments to rebuilding the country. That process had been hastened by feeling excluded from peace talks, and also by a weariness for supporting the Afghan campaign among voters and lawmakers in their respective countries, they said. Asked about those comments, a U.S. State Department spokesperson said regular reviews of foreign assistance was "good practice" and Afghanistan's development remained in the interest of the international community. "We see no signs that interest and investment are wavering," said the spokesperson, adding that U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad has briefed NATO allies and other partners three times since December, and effective coordination remained a priority. Nick Kay, NATO's newly appointed senior civilian representative in Afghanistan, said NATO allies "fully support" Khalilzad's efforts to negotiate a settlement. But even the Afghan government has complained of being left out. President Ashraf Ghani's national security adviser on Thursday accused Khalilzad of "delegitimizing" the Kabul government by excluding it from deliberations. Qatari officials did not respond to a request for comment. In 2017, U.S. development aid for Afghanistan totaled about $1.2 billion, well ahead of the next biggest donors Germany, European Union institutions, Britain and Japan, according to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) data. But the United States' junior aid partners collectively contributed nearly two-thirds of all development assistance, highlighting their critical if less visible importance to the country's future. CHANGING PRIORITIES U.S. and Taliban negotiators wrapped up their longest round of peace talks on Tuesday with progress made but no agreement on when foreign troops might withdraw. Whether funding countries keep investing in Afghanistan could prove pivotal to sustaining any peace. Diplomats say that, after troops leave, it may be the only leverage they have to retain influence over future Afghan governments. Since the 2001 U.S.-led invasion, Afghanistan has been among the top recipients of foreign government aid to promote economic and social development. In 2016, international donors pledged $15.2 billion in aid for Afghanistan until 2020. With those pledges due to expire, many countries are re-evaluating their military and funding commitments. "Priorities have changed for every EU nation," a European diplomat said, adding that countries besides Afghanistan needed support. "The donor fatigue is intense and no one is in the mood to overlook it after 2020," another diplomat said. A third diplomat said their country was re-evaluating its future aid with different scenarios in mind, including whether to continue development if the Taliban joins Afghanistan's government, and what to do if peace talks fail. Any drop-off in international aid would be disastrous for Afghanistan, since much of it funds basic health and education services, said Adele Khodr, country representative for Unicef. "It is definitely something we are concerned about. Imagine what would happen - (Afghanistan) would be Yemen," Khodr said. "(By) pulling out, the international community will pay a much higher price in insecurity across the world." Ninety percent of the money spent on the health sector in Afghanistan comes from the international community, said Toby Lanzer, deputy special representative in Afghanistan for the UN. An official in Ghani's office in Kabul declined to comment on potential risks to future aid. He said the government was making every effort to hold peace talks with the Taliban. The militant group said on Tuesday that such talks would have to wait until after a troop withdrawal plan is set. 'CRUCIAL TO STICK TOGETHER' Some diplomats caution against a quick retreat. "If we leave the country hastily, all these (advances) will go down the drain," Ambassador Markus Potzel, Germany's special representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan and one of the 10 diplomats interviewed, told Reuters in Kabul. Potzel was referring to gains such as Afghan girls' attendance in school and new employment opportunities. Maintaining aid was also critical to holding influence in Afghanistan, he said. "That's our leverage. We can attach strings," Potzel said. "It is crucial to stick together." A spokesperson at the British Embassy in Kabul said any changes to Britain's troop contribution would be made in consultation with coalition partners. As of March 2019, 39 countries contributed 17,034 foreign forces in Afghanistan for Resolute Support, of which the U.S. provided 50 percent, according to NATO. U.S. troops are also deployed in a separate mission directed against groups such as al Qaeda and Islamic State. U.S. President Donald Trump's questioning of NATO's value to Washington, along with the absence of allies at the negotiating table, has deepened the unease within the military alliance created in 1949 by the United States, Canada, and Western European nations. "The concern is that we need to be appraised of the progress of the discussions and to be involved. We have invested a lot," said a European diplomat. "This commitment should be reflected in influence or at least information on the peace talks." The diplomat said it was understandable that access to the negotiating table was narrow right now, but "what I would find abnormal is that we would be served a deal in which we had nothing to say and then be asked to foot the bill". SHRINKING FOOTPRINT? The senior diplomats interviewed by Reuters, who are based in Kabul and Islamabad, said their governments were finding it harder to justify the continuing presence of their troops and the steady drain of aid funding to Afghanistan. "It is increasingly difficult to tell our people why we are still here especially when they read reports about more than half of country being under the Taliban control," said a Western diplomat. "Almost all NATO countries are now struggling to justify their presence in Afghanistan to voters back home." The war's long duration has also weakened commitment. "If we had known that the war could go on as it has been for 18 years, we would have had a rethink in 2001," the Western diplomat said. The withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan has always been the Taliban's main demand, and Trump's interest in drawing down U.S. troops has stimulated efforts to end the war. "The prime concern is that we may wake up one day to a tweet by Trump about a unilateral withdrawal of U.S. troops before a peace agreement has been negotiated," said a diplomat whose country supports Afghan healthcare projects. Neighboring Pakistan sees a similar danger, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said. "An immediate vacuum can also be detrimental for peace and security and an indefinite presence is also not acceptable, so this is the detail that has to be worked out," he said. NATO members and partners said they also expect regional powers to share costs and step up their roles in Afghanistan to prevent civil war after foreign forces depart. "China has been sitting on the bleachers for a long time now," a diplomat said. The Chinese embassy in Kabul did not respond to requests for comment. Michael Kugelman, a South Asia expert at the Washington-based Woodrow Wilson Center, said the U.S. continues to count on friends to share the burden in Afghanistan. "But so long as the war continues with no peace deal, that supply of states willing to assist will shrink," said Kugelman. (Reporting by Rupam Jain and Rod Nickel in Kabul; additional reporting by Eric Knecht in Doha, James Mackenzie in Islamabad and Jonathan Landay in Washington; Editing by Alex Richardson) Citing a "growth crisis" and "internal management issues," the City of Montreal and the Quebec Public Security Ministry have cleaned house at the deradicalization centre set up to much fanfare in November 2015. Five of seven board members have quit the e Centre for the Prevention of Radicalization Leading to Violence (CPRLV), and the centre's director, Herman Deparice-Okomba, has been removed. Deparice-Okomba, a city employee, will return to work in another department, City of Montreal spokesperson Linda Boutin said in an emailed statement. Boutin said that as other organizations have gained expertise in the area of deradicalization, "it became clear that the centre was experiencing a growth crisis." "The centre's management did not necessarily have the right tools, which led to internal management issues." Radio-Canada previously reported allegations of management problems at the agency, which were denied by Deparice-Okomba at the time. A transitional board will review the mandate and role of the CPRLV, the city said in a news release. Montreal has set aside $225,000 for the transition period. New Zealand terrorist attack underlines need Boutin said the terrorist attack in New Zealand points to the importance of preventing radicalization, which will be a consideration as the program is evaluated. "The revised mandate of the centre will take into account the new realities of radicalization leading to violence," Boutin said. The centre, headquartered in Montreal with some staff in Quebec City, offers psychosocial counselling to radicalized individuals, helping them reintegrate into society, and conducts research into various types of extremism. In recent years, it has dealt with a spike in extreme-right radicalization. The group received 74 such reports in 2017, compared to 11 in 2016 and 13 in 2015. According to the release, the changes follow "external consultations" and an audit by the city's comptroller. The audit has not been made public. The transitional board will see two new members who have been appointed by the city joining the two remaining board members, who are from the provincial Health and Public Security ministries. This transitional administration is expected to last four months, according to the city. Montreal and the province have invested more than $6 million in the CPRLV since its founding in 2015. The grounds are quiet at CS Wind's Anchor Drive location. The company opened its Windsor location in 2011, but also has locations in Vietnam, China, Malaysia, Turkey and the United Kingdom. "I was one of the last one out the doors," said ex-employee Jason Deschene. He was told there was a "lack of work" and was laid off in June 2018. CBC has been unable to confirm if the business is actually closed. Calls and emails to CS Wind, a Korea-based company, have not been answered. "We literally worked all last winter without any heat in the building," said Deschene about his last days in the plant. "We were taking machines apart just to put them back together." Unionizing may have contributed to slowdown in work Deschene said he wasn't really let go from CS Wind, just laid off. He thinks the company balked at Canadian operations once the workers unionized. CS Wind first reached a collective bargaining agreement with Iron Workers Local 721 in February 2016. "From what I've heard, the agreement was that union busters would [make it] so they didn't get a union," said Deschene. Greg McLean worked at CS Wind for about five years, with his employment ending in 2018. He said "yes and no" when asked if he thought the union had anything to do with work slowing down. "No company really wants to have a union join them," said McLean. "But I wouldn't say it was the downfall." Deschene said his contract would have been due for renewal in February, which he believes is why the company has stayed quiet about whether it is open or not. 'We saw it coming' "When it happened, they called everyone to the cafeteria and everyone had to sign paperwork that effective a certain time they'd be done," said McLean, adding that the time was that same afternoon. McLean assumed there would be no call backs after that lay off but he wasn't surprised. Story continues "Everybody knew it was going to happen," McLean said, citing the Ontario government's moves to change renewable energy supports and tariffs on steel. According to McLean, it was almost a relief to finally get laid off. "We saw it coming," said McLean about how he felt the day he got laid off. "I don't know how to explain it. The relief ... now there's no more questions about it." When CS Wind came to southwestern Ontario, McLean said they were told the company would be around for "years." "Did I think years meant five? No. I was hoping for more like 10 or 15." Jason Viau/CBC Green energy factories slowly shuttered In 2017 when a Tillsonburg factory that made blades for wind turbines closed, Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens said there was a "real risk" the same thing could happen in Windsor. Four plants were set up in Ontario under a deal with Samsung. In addition to Windsor's CS Wind tower factory, there were also factories in London and Toronto. When the Tillsonburg plant closed, employees there also said they "saw it coming," and energy experts said it was "obvious" jobs from the Liberal government's foray into the Green Energy Act were temporary. Dilkens could not be reached this week for comment regarding the closure of CS Wind. 'That's business' McLean said it was frustrating a company who got so much money from the government was able to close up shop so soon. CS Wind was expected to create about 300-400 skilled job placements when it opened in 2011 after a $40-million announcement in December of 2010. Lana Drouillard with the Windsor Essex Economic Development Corporation said they haven't been informed of any closures and so couldn't comment on the lack of activity at the plant. "Do we feel they paid back to the community as much as they got out of it? No," said McLean. "But that's business." However, when CBC News reached out to the province to find out how much taxpayer money that had gone into CS Windsor Canada since its arrival, the Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines says there was none. "Ontario did not enter into any agreements with CS Wind Canada related to their Windsor facility and no funding was provided to CS Wind Canada by the Government of Ontario in relation to the establishment or operation of this facility," says an email from the Ministry. The email continues to say that the Ministry has had no communication with CS Wind Canada with regards to the Windsor facility. WASHINGTON (AP) The House voted unanimously Thursday for a resolution calling for any final report in special counsel Robert Mueller's Russia investigation to be made public, a symbolic action designed to pressure Attorney General William Barr into releasing as much information as possible when the probe is concluded. The Democratic-backed resolution, which passed 420-0, comes as Mueller appears to be nearing an end to his investigation. Lawmakers in both parties have maintained there will have to be some sort of public resolution when the report is done and privately hope that a report shows conclusions that are favorable to their own side. Four Republicans voted present: Michigan Rep. Justin Amash, Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz, Arizona Rep. Paul Gosar and Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie. The resolution is unlikely to be passed in the Senate, where Democratic Leader Charles Schumer tried to bring it up hours after House passage. He was rebuffed when Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham objected. But the House vote shows that lawmakers from both parties are eager to have a look at Mueller's findings after almost two years of speculation about what it might reveal. Though Mueller's office has said nothing publicly about the timing of a report, several prosecutors detailed to Mueller's team have left in recent months, suggesting that the investigation is winding down. On Thursday, Mueller spokesman Peter Carr said in a statement that Andrew Weissmann, one of the most prominent prosecutors on the team, would be concluding his work "in the near future." The nonbinding House resolution calls for the public release of any report Mueller provides to Barr, with an exception for classified material. The resolution also calls for the full report to be released to Congress. "This resolution is critical because of the many questions and criticisms of the investigation raised by the president and his administration," said House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler. President Donald Trump has repeatedly called the probe a "hoax" and a "witch hunt." Story continues It's unclear exactly what documentation will be produced at the end of the probe into possible coordination between Trump associates and Russia, and how much of that the Justice Department will allow people to see. Mueller is required to submit a report to Barr, and then Barr can decide how much of that is released publicly. Barr said at his confirmation hearing in January that he takes seriously the department regulations that say Mueller's report should be confidential. Those regulations require only that the report explain decisions to pursue or to decline prosecutions, which could be as simple as a bullet point list or as fulsome as a report running hundreds of pages. "I don't know what, at the end of the day, what will be releasable. I don't know what Bob Mueller is writing," Barr said at the hearing. Democrats have said they are unsatisfied with Barr's answers and want a stronger commitment to releasing the full report, along with interview transcripts and other underlying evidence. Republicans agree to a point. In making an argument for transparency, Republican leaders have pointed to Barr's comments and the existing regulations, without explicitly pressing for the underlying evidence. The top Republican on the House Judiciary panel, Georgia Rep. Doug Collins, voted for the resolution but said it was unnecessary. He defended Barr, saying he "understands the questions, the turmoil this has caused." Collins also had a warning for Democrats: "What happens when it comes back and none of this is true, the president did not do anything wrong? Then the meltdown will occur." At least one Republican is siding with Democrats. Texas Rep. Will Hurd, a member of the House intelligence committee, said he believes the resolution should have been even broader. "I want the American people to know as much as they can and see as much as they can," said Hurd, a former CIA officer. He added that "full transparency is the only way to prevent future innuendo." White House spokesman Hogan Gidley called the resolution "ridiculous." "They came in and so many of them said they wanted to work with the president and get things done for infrastructure and health care and instead they're moving on all these radical ideas," Gidley said of Democrats in an interview on Fox News. Gidley said he hadn't spoken with Trump about whether the report should be made public. If a full report isn't released, House Democrats have made clear they will do whatever they can to get hold of it. Nadler has said he would subpoena the final report and invite or even subpoena Mueller to talk about it. The Senate has been less eager to push Barr on the release of the report, despite some in the GOP caucus who have said they want to ensure transparency. Graham, a close ally of Trump's, said he would only allow the Mueller resolution from the House to move forward if it were amended to call for a new special counsel to investigate misconduct at the Justice Department surrounding the Hillary Clinton email investigation and the abuse of the secret surveillance warrant process. Schumer objected to those additions, and the bill did not get a vote. Afterward, Graham was equivocal on whether the full report should be released. "We'll see," he said. ___ Associated Press writers Eric Tucker and Jill Colvin contributed to this report. TransCanada has lost a bid to lift an injunction blocking work on the Keystone XL pipeline a development that could delay construction work on the $8-billion US project for another year. The Calgary-based company and the U.S. State Department had filed an "urgent" motion to try to lift the injunction preventing pre-construction work. But on Friday, the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals denied the motion. In court documents, TransCanada had said delays beyond March 15 could set the project back a whole year from its intended completion date in 2021, costing the company hundreds of millions of dollars in lost earnings. Following the decision, TransCanada said in a statement that "we are currently assessing the decision and considering our options moving forward." 'Most important ruling' Lawyer Stephan Volker, who represents the Indigenous Environmental Network and the North Coast Rivers Alliance, both opponents of the project, called the appeal court's decision "pivotal." "It's outstanding," Volker told CBC News. "I think that it is the most important ruling in this case." Volker considers the decision critical because he does not believe U.S. President Donald Trump will be re-elected and said no other administration would sign off on such an "ecologically disastrous project." "I think it's highly unlikely the U.S. Supreme Court would overturn this ruling," Volker added. The Keystone XL pipeline would carry 830,000 barrels of crude a day from Hardisty, Alta., to Nebraska. The pipeline would then connect with the original Keystone that runs to refineries in Texas. Terray Sylvester/Reuters First announced in 2005, the project has been stuck in limbo after being met with considerable political, environmental and Indigenous opposition. The Obama administration denied Keystone XL's permits, but Trump breathed life back into the project after giving it his presidential thumbs-up. Story continues Last August, the project met another setback when U.S. District Court Judge Brian Morris ordered the U.S. State Department to do a full environmental review of a revised route for the Keystone XL crude oil pipeline. In November, Morris put a temporary halt on pre-construction work until the U.S. State Department completed its supplementary review, including potential adverse effects on climate change and wildlife. The following month, the Montana court gave the company permission to continue some pre-construction work such as engineering, awarding contracts and taking meetings. Still, according to one filing made to the court in January, TransCanada had to lay off about 650 contract workers from pre-construction activities such as pipe yard and workforce camp preparations. In February, the company requested the appeals court grant it relief from the injunction, asking for a decision by March 15. 'Very substantial harm' In a legal filing made earlier in the year, a TransCanada executive said the March date was key to starting construction by August. Failure to meet the deadline means it "will be unable to perform any construction in 2019." "A one-year delay in the construction schedule would impose very significant consequences on TransCanada," Norrie Ramsay, TransCanada's senior vice-president of technical centre and liquid projects, wrote in the affidavit in January. Ramsay estimated a one-year delay would "result in lost earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) of approximately $949 million US between March 2021 and March 2022, based on the minimum take-or-pay shipper commitment." "In addition, a one-year delay in construction of the pipeline would cause very substantial harm to third parties, including United States workers and TransCanada's customers that are relying on the current in-service date of the project," Ramsay said at the time. 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. . ..JNS.org..14 March '19..J Street thinks that Birthright trips are too pro-Israel. So it has announced that it is launching some trips of its own. Perhaps they should be called Birthwrong since their purpose is to convince young American Jews that Israel is wrong and the Palestinian Authority is right on pretty much every issue.Jewish control of united Jerusalem? Israel is wrong, J Street says; the city should be re-divided, with the eastern portion turned into the capital of Palestine.Allowing Jews to build homes in Judea-Samaria, just as Arabs do? Israel is wrong about that, too, says J Street; those territories should be Arab-only.And opposing the P.A.s payments to terrorists? Wrong again, according to J Street; complaining about pay-for-slay could harm the peace process.Israel is wrong, wrong, wrong. And the Palestinian Authority is always right, which is why J Street never criticizes it.Despite all this, there actually might be some value in the Birthwrong trips. Heres why. Photo - Dame Edna Lyons clipping One article that I found in my late mother's archives was from the Sydney Morning Herald dated April 17th, 1939, entitled "Dame Enid Lyons's share in husband's career: Bond of Intellect and Affection." The writer was Martin Threlfall who was the Private Secretary to Prime Minister Joseph Lyons for part of his term in office, and he was paying tribute to Mrs Lyons after the death of her husband, just ten days earlier. At that time, no-one could have predicted what heights Dame Enid would aspire to, in her own right and by her own intelligence and hard work. But even then, it was known that Enid Lyons was no pushover in any endeavour or in any one's imagination. Enid was born 9 July 1897 and lived to 2 September 1981. She married Joseph married in 1915, and they had twelve children, one of whom died in infancy. Joseph Lyons, had been the Premier of Tasmania between 1923 and 1928 and the Prime Minister of Australia between 1932 and 1939 just a little short of the (then) record term for a Prime Minister in office. In 1932 when Joseph became Prime Minister, Enid and the children moved into The Lodge in Canberra where she became an extremely popular political spouse. When Joseph died in 1939, aged 59, (the first Australian Prime Minister to die in office), Dame Enid returned to Tasmania. Enid Lyons was made a Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire (GBE) in the Coronation Honours of 1936. Enid was, as they say, one in a million. In the 1943 federal election Dame Enid Lyons won the Division of Darwin in north-western Tasmania for the United Australia Party (one might say, the conservative side of Australian politics fore-runner of the Liberal Party). Of course, since there is no provision in Australia for any heredity or 'legacy' appointments to Parliament, Enid's seat was won because of her own hard work, efficiency and personality. She had won over the 'hearts and minds' of her constituents and her appointment was 'fair and square' of her own volition. Her speeches in Parliament generally espoused traditional views on the family and other social issues. Robert Menzies who became Prime Minister upon Joseph's death appointed Enid Lyons as Vice President of the Executive Council which afforded her a seat in Cabinet but her health declined under the strain of widowhood, the travel between Canberra and Tasmania, her duties and family. Dame Enid retired at the 1951 election. Having left parliament, her health recovered, and she became a newspaper columnist between 1951 and 1954, a commissioner of the ABC from 1951 until 1962, as well as continuing to conduct a busy public life, with an emphasis on promoting family and women's issues. Her two volumes of memoirs included allegations that Robert Menzies had been disloyal to Joseph Lyons in 1939 by going onto the back bench, which stress she believed led to his early grave when only 59. Enid Lyons died in 1981 but not before being honoured again the year before on Australia Day with the Dame of the Order of Australia, only the second Australian women to have received such an honour. Photo - River Crossing - Dame Edna Lyons focused on rural Australia Multi-tasking Today, we refer to someone who can handle so many tasks competently either a 'super-mum' or say they are 'multi-tasking'. Many women have found they need to achieve great heights to be acknowledged by their community. Some feel that they have to be 'better' at a task than a man in an equivalent position to be noticed, and the saying is that they are like the actress and dancer Ginger Rogers who did everything that Fred Astair did, but backwards and in high heels. I often feel that it would be a positive move in our society if more women, who work hard behind the scenes, could be awarded similar public accolades that Dame Enid was able to gain during her long and diligent life. Our Australian Honours today are a good start it is possible to nominate those in your own community whom you feel are doing something worthwhile, but are not being given their full due of recognition. If you know of such a deserving person, may I suggest to you that you get your community together and nominate her (or him) for such an Australian award. All the information you need is at www.itsanhonour.gov.au/honours/nominating/nominating.cfm Dame Enid, and my own late mother, would be proud of any such deserved community awards, for people who would not otherwise have been recognised. In my view many evangelical Christian women fail to be recognised as such simply because they are passionate for Jesus which in the minds of many, somehow precludes such legitimate community recognition. Photo - Tronson du Coudray art Mahogany reflecting Dame Edna Lyons 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 AJ Fernandez Cigars is set to deliver its first TAA Exclusive Series cigar. At the TAA Convention scheduled at Casa de Campo March 17-21 in the Dominican Republic, the AJ Fernandez New World Redondo will make its debut. Details of this announcement were first reported by Cigar Aficionado earlier this week. The Redondo is different in that it will be the first rounded parejo in the original New World line. The Redondo measures 6 1/2 x 55. As for the blend, like the rest of the line, the cigar is a Nicaraguan puro. It will be available in 21-count boxes and pricing was reported at $8.00 per cigar. Typically TAA Exclusive Cigars are unveiled at the annual convention and made available to the approximately 80 retail members. The members come together at the annual convention and collectively make high volume purchases on cigars in exchange for exclusive promotions and pricing. While other companies are expected to make TAA releases, very few make formal announcements on the products being offered to the TAA. The TAA also does not make formal announcements. The AJ Fernandez New World Redondo joins Crowned Heads The Angels Anvil 2019, Eiroa Jamastran, E.P. Carrillo La Historia 656, La Palina Silver Label, Nat Sherman Timeless Limited Edition TAA Exclusive, Don Pepin Garcia Original TAA Exclusive Limited Edition 2019, Brick House Ciento Por Ciento, and Tatuaje TAA 51st as TAA releases Cigar Coop has been able to confirm thus far. La Flor Dominicana has also said there is a TAA release coming, but will disclose details at the convention once it starts. Cigar Dojo has announced its latest collaborative project is with Cubariqueno Cigar Company. Today the online social media community announced it is teaming up with Cubariqueno to release the Protocol Night Stick. Its the second collaboration between Cubariqueno and Cigar Dojo. Blended by Hector Alfonso Sr., the Protocol Night Stick features an Ecuadorian Habano Rosado Oscuro wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and filler. The cigar comes in one size a 6 1/2 x 54 Toro Gordo known as the Attitude Adjuster. Juan Cancel, co-owner of Cubariqueno Cigar Co., commented in a press release, We wanted to follow up the extraordinarily successful Protocol K9 with something special for the Cigar Dojo community! We wanted the Dojo Nation to have a very memorable cigar experience, so we blended this beauty especially with them in mind! We hope you guys enjoy the Night Stick as much as we do; I actually love it and am sad that it will not be a regular-production cigar. I made myself a few extra because I know they are going to sell out fast! The Protocol Night Stick will be sold in ten-count bundles. A total of 500 bundles have been produced (compared to 300 bundles for the previous Cubariqueno collaboration with Cigar Dojo, the K9). It will be sold exclusively through Pennsylvania-based retailer Famous Smoke Shop. Pricing is set at $89.99 per bundle and $9.00 per cigar. A release party will be held at the Famous Smoke Shop and accompanying Leaf Cigar Bar, located in Easton, PA. The event will begin simultaneously with the cigars release on April 5th at 12pm (Eastern Time). The following is a list of the Cigar Dojo collaborations done by cigar manufacturers and brands: At a glance, here is a look at the Protocol Night Stick: Blend and Origin Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Rosado Oscuro Binder: Nicaragua Filler: Nicaragua (Condega | Jalapa) Country of Origin: Nicaragua Factory: La Zona Vitolas Offered Attitude Adjuster: 6 1/2 x 54 For Episode 88, the one and only Michael Giannini of Ventura Cigar Company returns to Prime Time. Since we had Michael on Prime Time last year, he has now become the General Manager at Ventura Cigar and a lot of exciting things have happened since then. Our Debonaire Ideal segment will cover music playlists and we will have some more TAA talk as the Tobacconists Association of America convention opens March 17, 2019 at Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic. > Dont forget, you can catch us on Google Play Music, iTunes, Podbean, and YouTube. Taking the International Path Published: 15 March 2019 by Chelsey Drysdale by Chelsey Drysdale Rehms workforce is built up of employees from more than 26 countries; contacts come about through trade fairs, job fairs and from our customers themselves The Alb-Donau region is fortunate: it can boast full employment, as the unemployment rate is at around 2.0 percent. For the companies in this region however, this means one thing: a skills shortage, even though the demand for qualified professionals is simultaneously on the rise. For this reason, Rehm Thermal Systems has already been recruiting skilled workers from abroad for some time now with great success. Rehm employs over 600 people worldwide. The site in Blaubeuren alone employs a workforce thats pooled from more than 26 countries. We are dependent on foreign specialists above all in the development and construction segments, but also in the field of software, for mechatronics engineers and technicians, says HR Manager Joachim Erhard. Due to the low unemployment rate, we had to broaden our horizons and reach for new recruitment opportunities. Up until now, the contact to potential new employees came about through international trade fairs and job fairs such as the careers day for skilled specialists in Neu-Ulm, the careers fair in Ulm or Sinojobs in Munich not to mention through Rehms customers who operate on an international level. It is relatively easy to find international specialists; the difficulty lies in bringing these specialists to Germany, Joachim Erhard explains. Those responsible for the recruitment of international specialists at Rehm have received a great deal of assistance from the Welcome Center Ulm/Oberschwaben, located at the Ulm Chamber of Industry and Commerce. The Welcome Center has been a great help to us in many aspects: in helping us to correctly adhere to authorisation procedure, particularly when it comes to recognising university education, the content of study courses at these foreign universities and the official certification of degrees and diplomas, Erhard adds. A retrainee mechatronics engineer from Iraq, a machining specialist from Syria, a software engineer from Cameroon and a Chinese electrical systems designer all work at Rehm: the fields of employment are just as diverse as the employees countries of origin. They work directly on the systems, develop and implement software or engineer the systems themselves. Rehm Thermal Systems is searching for specialists in nearly all areas and in the best cases, it is finding them. Dhanya Thondukulam Kannan, from India, has been working as a software developer at Rehm for approximately two years. Among other things, she is responsible for MES applications support as well as software integration. I want to work here in the region because there are many companies here and therefore many prospects and opportunities available, says Dhanya Kannan. Integrating into life in Germany was not always easy for her due mainly to language difficulties. The German language and the Swabian dialect are extremely difficult, she explains. Joachim Erhards conclusion on the experience with international specialists so far is very positive: We at Rehm have noted very good experiences with international specialists to date. We will continue on this path in order to meet our need for specialists in the future. During the integration process, it is extremely important to those responsible that their new colleagues feel at ease. To this aim, Rehm offers an all-round package, as Erhard points out: We support our employees in finding their feet in Germany, with the day-to-day practicalities starting with somewhere to live, on through their language course and even to opening their bank account. About Rehm Thermal Systems As a specialist in thermal system solutions for the electronics and photovoltaics industry, Rehm is a technology and innovation leader in state-of-the-art, cost-effective manufacturing of electronic assembly groups. As a globally active manufacturer of reflow soldering systems with convection, condensation or vacuum, of drying and coating systems, functional test systems, equipment for metallisation of solar cells as well as numerous customised systems, we have a presence in all key growth markets and, as a partner with almost 30 years of industry experience, are able to implement innovative production solutions that set new standards. At Weathy High's Ice Ball, which mainly seems to be some tinsel in a garage (it's not really Enchantment Under The Sea, is it?), Max... Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Email Telegram Beirut, February 21, 2019The Committee to Protect Journalists today condemned the prolonged detention without charge of freelance journalist Sherwan Amin Sherwani by Kurdish authorities in northern Iraq and called for his immediate release. Sherwani, a Kurdish journalist and outspoken critic of the regions ruling Kurdish Democratic Party, was arrested by party-affiliated security forces in the Iraqi Kurdistan city of Dohuk on January 28, and was accused by the Asayish intelligence service of committing acts against the security of the state; if charged and convicted, he faces a lifetime prison sentence, according to news reports and his lawyer, Xetab Omer, who spoke with CPJ. Sherwani was on his way to a protest in northeastern Duhok when he was arrested along with 25 others, according to his lawyer. The demonstration was against the Turkish Army and local Kurdish security forces which, on January 26, had killed one protester and injured several others during a crackdown on a rally against Turkish airstrikes in the region, according to news reports. People in this volatile region are entitled to all the footage, facts, and opinions that they can get, said CPJ Middle East and North Africa Representative Ignacio Miguel Delgado. Reporting and criticism are not grounds for a day in jail, and we call on the Kurdish regional authorities to release Sherwan Amin Sherwani immediately and allow journalists to do their job freely. Sherwanis Facebook feed shows that he often goes to protests to take pictures and live stream to his more than 10,000 followers. He had recently recorded and posted videos about the Turkish airstrikes in Iraqi Kurdistan, including one posted the day before his arrest naming all the people killed in such strikes since May 2017. On February 1, Sherwani was moved to Zirka Prison in Duhok, which is run by the Asayish intelligence service, Omer told CPJ. According to his lawyer, the intelligence service has accused Sherwani of violating Article 156 of the 1969 Iraqi Penal Codean accusation more severe than violating Iraqi Kurdistans press lawswhich states that anyone who willfully violates the independence, unity, or security of the country can be punished with life imprisonment. Asayish agents have cited Sherwanis posts on social media in their accusations, according to Omer. Of those arrested en route to the protest, Sherwani and 18 others remain imprisoned and have been accused of violating Article 156, according to Ragaz Kamal, co-founder of local press freedom group 17Shubat for Human Rights, who spoke to CPJ. On February 13, Sherwani was transferred to the Asayish-run Gishty Prison in Dohuk, where he has been in solitary confinement, according to Kamal. Kamal told CPJ that Sherwani had been collaborating as a freelance investigative journalist with 17Shubat since 2016. Kamal said that, in early January, Sherwanis research was featured in a video documenting politically motivated killings committed in the Dohuk and Bahdinan regions since 1991. Sherwani is also the founder and president of Tekoshan, a nonprofit based in Dohuk that promotes ethical journalism and is licensed by the Kurdistan Regional Government. On January 26, Asayish security forces detained two TV crews working for Kurdish broadcaster NRT, which had covered the protests, and shut down the broadcasters Dohuk office, as CPJ reported at the time, and the office remains closed. The Special Olympics World Games 2019 was inaugurated at Abu Dhabi. The Special Olympics World Games 2019 is being hosted by the cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. For the first time, the Special Olympics is being held in the Middle East and North Africa region. The host UAE had introduced the term people of determination as part of a new National Strategy for Empowering People with Disabilities. Special Olympics Special Olympics is a global movement of people creating a new world of inclusion, where every single person is accepted and welcomed, regardless of their ability or disability. The Special Olympics are held every two years and alternates between summer and winter. Previous Special Olympics were held in Austria (2017) and the next Special Olympics will be held in Sweden (2021). The motto of Special Olympics Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me brave in the attempt. embodies what every athlete wants to pursue in life by dispelling the myth that children with intellectual disabilities must be confined behind the walls of unique and uncommon societies. Lewis Hamilton began his title defence in emphatic style by taking a wonderful pole position for the Australian Grand Prix.But another Briton, newcomer Lando Norris, also lit up Melbourne just as the five-time world champion did on his own debut here 12 years ago.Norris produced the biggest moment of his life in Albert Park, taking his substandard McLaren into the realms of the unexpected. He qualified ninth. His team-mate Carlos Sainz, with 81 race starts to his name, provided context by coming 18th of the 20 runners.Norris, 19, was seemingly nerveless at the crunch moments in Q1 and Q2, pulling out laps that mark him out as a driver of immense promise.Nobody since Hamilton on the first corner of this track in 2007 has done more in brief glimpses of brilliance to raise the hopes of British motor racing fans. Norris's career may yet fizzle out we pray it won't and have to no reason to think it will but his display under the Melbourne sun will remain a princely entry to cherish.Ferrari came to Australia buoyed by a perceived advantage through pre-season testing but Hamilton's Mercedes team put the wind up their rivals from the first practice session on Friday.Hamilton, was fastest throughout the weekend, had to marshal a near-perfect last lap with team-mate Valtteri Bottas having a set a very brisk time to beat.AUSTRALIAN GP QUALIFYING1 Hamilton (Gbr) Mercedes 1:20.4862 Bottas (Fin) Mercedes 1:20.5983 Vettel (Ger) Ferrari 1:21.1904 Verstappen (Hol) Red Bull 1:21.3205 Leclerc (Mon) Ferrari 1:21.4426 Grosjean (Fra) Haas 1:21.8267 Magnussen (Den) Haas 1:22.0998 Norris (Gbr) McLaren 1:22.3049 Raikkonen (Fin) Alfa Romeo 1:22.31410 Perez (Mex) Racing Point 1:22.78111 Hulkenberg (Ger) Renault 1:22.56212 Ricciardo (Aus) Renault 1:22.57013 Albon (Tha) Toro Rosso 1:22.63614 Giovinazzi (Ita) Alfa Romeo 1:22.71415 Kvyat (Rus) Toro Rosso 1:22.77416 Stroll (Can) Racing Point 1:23.01717 Gasly (Fra) Red Bull 1:23.02018 Sainz (Spa) McLaren 1:23.08419 Russell (Gbr) Williams 1:24.36020 Kubica (Pol) Williams 1:26.067Hamilton managed it by just over a tenth of a second a victory of nerve and skill. His pole was his eighth here and sixth in succession.Bottas was second quickest, securing a Mercedes front-row lockout.Sebastian Vettel, who detoured off track on to the gravel in Q2, was third with Red Bull's Max Verstappen fourth.Norris's fellow British rookie, George Russell also had a fine day beating his Williams team-mate Robert Kubica by more than a second a half, but the car is very slow and he was 19th.'I'm proud of myself to be honest,' said Russell. 'We all know where the car is at and we need to push forward my only comparison is Robert.'I can leave here with my head held high. We're not doing anything silly. We're just gathering data because we're still so far behind.'Kubica, back in the sport after eight years out after severing part of his arm in a rally accident, hit a wall for the second time of the day, punctured himself and finished bottom of the heap.On a topsy-turvy afternoon, Pierre Gasly flunked out in Q1 the first time Red Bull have exited at that stage since Monaco last year when Verstappen crashed.Neither Renault made it into Q3, with Nico Hulkenberg 11th and Daniel Ricciardo 12th. A poor start for them.McLaren were fined 4,300 for the unsafe of Norris, releasing him into Kubica's path. New York is hit with the worst case of a measles outbreak in decades with 275 confirmed cases through the first week of March.Reports indicated that the concentration of measles infection is from the Orthodox Jewish families in Rockland County who refused to have their children vaccinated.Failure To Achieve Herd ImmunityAs of March 13, Rockland County had 146 confirmedmeasles cases, the highest among all of the 12 states with reported outbreaks. Majority of the affected individuals are between ages 4 and 18.More than 82 percent of those infected in Rockland County had no MMR vaccines. The New York City Health Department also confirmed158 isolated cases in the Orthodox Jewish communities in Brooklyn and Queens.Rates of measles infectionhad increased steadily in the past years due to fears of immunization fueled by anti-vaccine activists."Cases in those states occurred primarily among unvaccinated people in Orthodox Jewish communities. These outbreaks were associated with travelers who brought measles back from Israel, where a large outbreak is occurring," accordingto CDC.Doctors said that 95 percent of the population of an area should be vaccinated to achieve herd or community immunity.Herd immunity is crucial to prevent disease outbreaks among high-risk populations. People with weakened or failing immune systemsdue to existing health conditions like HIV/AIDS or cancer will benefit from the protection.Dr. Aaron Glatt, a rabbi who sits as the chairman at the department of medicine at South Nassau Communities Hospital, said vaccination is not necessarily against the Jewish law.Challenges In ContainmentTo prevent the spread of outbreaks, the New York State Department of Health ordered that unvaccinated childrenshould be kept out of school. The department specified exclusion criteria for all unvaccinated students, including those with religious or medical exemptions."Students who have not received their first or second dose of MMR vaccine, as appropriate, and lack evidence of serologic immunity will need to remain home for an additional 21 days after the date of last exposure in the schools," saidthe letter co-signed by Bradley Hutton, the deputy commissioner for public health.Public health officials are strengthening their campaign of encouraging communities that modern vaccines are safe and effective in preventing communicable and fatal diseases. Belarusian authorities have ordered the expulsion of an Iranian man who has converted to Christianity and is wanted by Tehran for apostasy and alleged murder, despite warnings by international human rights organizations that he would be at risk of torture and the death penalty if sent back. Mehrdad Jamshidian's health is deteriorating after he suffered a heart attack in July and was returned to a detention center after only three days in a Belarusian hospital. Jamshidian emigrated to Belarus in 1993 and is married to a Belarusian woman with whom he has three children. Jamshidian has been without legal status since his Iranian passport expired in 2016, and he did not apply for a new one because of "well-founded fears of persecution in Iran," according to Amnesty International. His multiple requests for asylum and protection have been all rejected by the Belarusian authorities since 2013, and without a new passport he could not apply for residence in the country. The Belarusian Department of Citizenship and Migration on March 15 issued an order to deport Jamshidian, who has been kept in detention for the past nine months, back to Iran. Diana, one of Jamshidians daughters, told RFE/RL that her father has five days to appeal the verdict. Jamshidian converted to Christianity in 2002 while living in Belarus, a fact that apparently only became known later to the Iranian authorities. Apostasy, the renunciation of Islam, is a crime punishable by death in Iran. Jamshidian was placed on Interpol's wanted list in 2012 at Tehran's request for allegedly murdering his mother and brother during a visit to Iran, although Amnesty International says he was in Belarus at the time of the murders, and despite his relatives declaring officially that he was not a suspect. Belarusian authorities, based on the Interpol warrant, arrested him twice, in 2012 and 2013, but did not extradite him eventually because of what they said was insufficient proof from Iran for his expulsion. However, Belarusian authorities in late 2013 ordered his deportation, resulting in his being detained twice for long periods of time between 2013-2016 before being eventually released due to extenuating circumstances. 'Binding International Principle' Human rights organizations have been coming to Jamshidian's defense. The UN Committee on Human Rights said in 2017 that, if Jamshidian was extradited to Iran he would be at risk of torture and the death penalty, with no guarantee of a fair trial. Amnesty International said in July that under "the binding international legal principle of non-refoulement," states cannot transfer a person to a place where they are at real risk of serious human rights violations or abuses. "Sending Mehrdad Jamshidian to Iran, where he is at risk of grievous harm and possibly death, would be a violation of international law," Amnesty said at the time. Jamhsidian's other daughter, Katryn, told RFE/RL that Belarusian authorities had long given the family assurances that he could be sent to a third country. "But now, they are referring to some documents that came from Iran, and saying that the decision about deportation has been made," Katryn said. "But where? To Iran, where the death penalty awaits him for what he did not and could not have done? "Iranian authorities are simply seeking revenge for his conversion from Islam to Orthodox [Christianity]. It is very disappointing for us that our home country, Belarus, has sided with Iran in the question of the fate of [our father] and his family." | 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 Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE! "One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed, but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde State Sen. Dan Claitor will file a bill to abolish the death penalty in Louisiana as debate heats up here and across the country with California Gov. Gavin Newsom halting executions and President Donald Trump firing off a tweet condemning "stone cold killers." Louisianas own debate over the death penalty took center stage at the Capitol this week when Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry accused Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards of stalling executions, a claim Edwards dismissed. Claitor, a Republican from Baton Rouge, said he will file his bill this spring in partnership with state Rep. Terry Landry, an Acadiana Democrat who is the former head of the Louisiana State Police. Claitor's and Landry's previous efforts have failed. "(The death penalty) doesn't work, it's not a deterrent, it's prohibitively expensive, it cheapens life and it's morally wrong," Claitor said Wednesday morning in an interview with USA Today Network. "I know that there are those who disagree, and that's why we're having the debate. "We can't lose sight of the victims' families, but their feelings aren't all the same, either. Not all families of victims have the desire to put someone to death in their loved one's name, though many do feel that way." Newsom's executive order for a moratorium saves 737 people on death row for now in California, which has the largest condemned prisoner population in the nation. Trump's early morning tweet said Newsom's actions are an insult to the victims. "Defying voters, the Governor of California will halt all death penalty executions of 737 stone cold killers," Trump tweeted. "Friends and families of the always forgotten VICTIMS are not thrilled, and neither am I!" Death penalty hearing In Louisiana, House Administration of Criminal Justice Committee Chairman Sherman Mack, R-Albany, said he called Tuesday's death penalty hearing at Landry's request. The hearing was weighted with families of murder victims seeking to have the death penalty carried out for their loved ones' killers. There have been no executions of convicted death row inmates in Louisiana since 2010 because of the state's inability to procure it's preferred drug for lethal injection. Neither Edwards nor his Secretary of Corrections Jimmy LeBlanc were invited to the hearing, prompting Democrats on the committees to call it a "set-up." On Wednesday morning, Landry echoed Trump's sentiments in an interview with USA Today Network and took another shot at Edwards. "I stand with the president in recognizing the victims' families have lost their voice and tacitly the governor of our state is doing the same thing as the governor of California, although our governor isn't being as honest. He's hiding behind excuses." There were also no executions during the final term of former Republican Gov. Bobby Jindal. GOP Congressman Ralph Abraham of Alto, who is running for governor, said he would like to see convicted child molesters put to death as well as murderers. "I stand with (Landry)," he said in a statement sent to USA Today Network. "Not only am I in favor of he death penalty, but I'm in favor of enforcing it. If you murder someone in Louisiana you should know that when caught, you will be put to death." 'The drugs are not available' Edwards, a devout Catholic, hasn't revealed his personal views about the death penalty, only that he will uphold the laws of the state. "The fact of the matter is that we cannot execute someone in the state of Louisiana today because the only legally prescribed manner set forth in state statute is unavailable to us," Edwards said in a statement. "In the time since we last had this conversation, nothing has changed the drugs are not available and legislation has not passed to address concerns of drug companies or offer alternative forms of execution. "That's not through any fault of my own or the department of corrections. I'm not inclined to go back to methods that have been discarded because popular sentiment turned against them or maybe some methods that were deemed to be barbaric and so forth. Louisiana's next Legislative Session begins April 6. Source: thenewsstar.com , Greg Hillburn, March 13, 2019. Greg Hilburn covers state politics for the USA TODAY Network of Louisiana. | 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 Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE! "One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed, but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde MTNs planned sale of its majority stake in Botswanas Mascom has been met with concern by the operators board. Last week, MTN agreed to sell its stake in the joint venture for $300 million to its partner Econet Wireless. However, Mascoms board believes that another stakeholder the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund (BPOPF) must be able to influence the decision. Following a portfolio review, MTN has adopted a new strategy that will see it reduce the number of markets in which it operates. The group owns a 53.1% stake in Mascom, which is the market leader in Botswana, with over 1.5 million subscribers giving it a market share of around 54%. Econet Wireless is owned by Mascoms founder Strive Masiyiwa, who set up the operator in 1998 but has sold off the majority of his holding in it. Mascoms board is now dominated by representatives of the BPOPF, with the operator among the funds most profitable enterprises. Local news outlet Mmegi reported that the Mascom boards BPOPF representatives had dismissed MTNs offer, claiming that the fund should receive the first right to buy any available holdings in the operator. The funds representatives queried the valuation of the stake, arguing that due diligence would be required before any transfer of shares began. Quoting anonymous sources, Mmegi claimed: Masiyiwa apparently wants to come back to significant equity through purchasing MTNs shares. This has been met with resistance by the board, with another source noting: The pension fund is well capable of making an offer for those shares and if they cannot, they could find partners. At worse, they could even list those shares. MTN is looking to divest units that are not cash flow positive, according to CEO Rob Shuter. The group has sold its operations in Cyprus but has not yet divested any other holdings, although Bloomberg reported that it was considering selling up in Guinea, Guinea-Bissau and Liberia. The Beto Bandwagon by Nancy Ohanian Wall Street Journal piece, DWT. Late last year we Reid Epstein'spiece, Beto ORourkes Past GOP Ties Could Complicate Primary Run , pointed out that "Before becoming a rising star in the Democratic Party, Beto ORourke relied on a core group of business-minded Republicans in his Texas hometown to launch and sustain his political career.To win their backing, Mr. O'Rourke opposed Obamacare, voted against Nancy Pelosi as the House Democratic leader and called for a raise in the Social Security eligibility age." Surprised? You should have been reading. Late last year we reported that Beto's dad was a kind of switchy-changey politician-- sometimes a Democrat, sometimes a Republican and when Beto and two of his pals-- collectively "The Progressives"-- decided to run for El Paso City Council it was on a very non-partisan agenda-- improving urban planning, downtown development, border reform, creating a more diversified economy with more highly skilled jobs,and ending systemic corruption among city's political class..." Beto won big and was reelected bigger and he turned out to be a dream official... for gentrification and for developers When Beto first ran for Congress in 2012, he also ran as a reformer-- conveniently against an entrenched conservative Democrat, Silvestre Reyes-- he seemed like an idealistic kid. He was 40. Blue America endorsed him in a largely ignored primary. But we weren't the only outside group supporting him. A group financed by conservative billionaires, Campaign for Primary Accountability (the No Labels of its day) spent heavily against Reyes. In fact they spent more in the TX-16 race than in any of the 14 districts they contested in 2012-- $240,000 helping to elect Beto. Aside from Beto's father-in-law, William Sanders, the top donors were all right-wing 6 and 7-figure Republican donors, mostly from Texas, who support charter schools and want to privatize Medicare: Leo Linbeck, Joe Ricketss, Tim Dunn, Eric O'Keefe, Jonathan Farber... Beto's biggest single contributor that cycle was the Hunt Companies (developers) who in 2012 gave massively to Republicans and... Beto-- Texas Conservative Fund ($225,000), NRSC ($217,300), Mitt Romney ($33,250), RNC ($31,110), Ted Cruz ($25,500) David Dewhurst ($20,000), NRCC ($19,100)... only Republicans plus Beto. Worth mentioning is that they kept right on supporting Beto. In the 2016 cycle, for example, as they were writing over $2.1 million in checks to Jeb Bush's campaign and over $200,000 each to the RNC and the NRCC, they also supported one Democrat-- Beto-- with $39,300. In 2014 they backed candidates like Bill Cassidy (R-LA), John Boehner (R-OH), Ed Gillespie (R-VA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Mitt Romney (R-UT) and one Democrat-- Beto, who got more than any of them. Blue America didn't endorse Beto for his reelection bids in 2014 or 2016 for two reasons. He didn't need our help and he had turned out to be a so-so member of Congress, scoring an "F" from ProgressivePunch and joining the New Dems. Still, he has been good on some issues-- immigration, gun control, campaign finance reform, Palestine, anti-trust and marijuana but usually in a "moderate" way. His environmental record is good, but he isn't exactly the kind of guy to sign onto the GreenNewDeal. Nor Medicare-For-All. He's more a centrist than an actual progressive . Last summer, NPR referred to him as "an unapologetic, unabashed liberal who has shown no interest in moving toward the political middle after his victory in the Texas Democratic primary. On issues like universal health care, an assault weapons ban, abortion rights and a higher minimum wage, O'Rourke has staked out progressive positions." They quoted Democratic populist Jim Hightower saying "You've got a Democratic constituency that is fed up, not just with Trump, but with the centrist, mealy-mouthed, do-nothing Democratic establishment. They're looking for some real change and Beto is representing that." NPR was wrong and Hightower may have been as well-- at least if he was buying into any kind of reality behind a Democratic constituency that is deluding itself into thinking Beto is representing substantive policy-oriented change. The kind of change Beto represents is changing out a Cruz or a Trump for a Beto. That's change-- good change... but that's not the Kind of change Bernie or Elizabeth Warren represents. The Atlantic was Elaina Plott, writing forwas less starry-eyed , noting that Beto has been endlessly compared to the great charismatic stars of the Democratic Party like JFK and Obama but she sees him more like Marco Rubio, "a young, handsome, eloquent, prolific fund-raiser." But even Plott claimed he supported Medicare-for-All, which he certainly didn't. 124 House Dems co-sponsored the Conyers bill while Beto was still in Congress-- but he didn't. Even some Texas Democrats considerably to his right like Gene Green and Marc Veasey and Blue Dogs Filemon Vela and Vicente Gonzalez signed on. When I spoke with him about it personally, he remained non-committal, the same way the website for his Senate campaign was. Will he be the guy to push for Job Guarantee? No. Free state colleges? No. Bernie and Bobby Scott introduced H.R. 15, the raise the wage act (for a $15 minimum wage) on May 25, 2017. There were 151 immediate co-sponsors. But Beto wasn't among them. In fact, it wasn't until February of 2018 that he finally signed on, one of the last 3 Democratic holdouts. In 2016, Beto endorsed Hillary, not Bernie. People call her a progressive as well. I'd say Beto is a moderate with more in common with centrists like Hillary and Biden than with cutting edge leaders like Bernie or Alexandria Ocasio. There are reasons he joined the New Dems but not the Congressional Progressive Caucus. American Prospect, In yesterday's Christopher Hooks report for the Beto Versus The Bario , the point is that on the El Paso City Council Beto pushed through gentrification plans that benefited his rich Republican, predatory father-in-law, gentrification that was devastating to poor Latinos in El Paso. Paste yesterday-- Vanity Fair piece noted, he won his first House race by 'drawing a large number of white Republican voters to his cause, which deepened suspicion from left-leaning Chicano activists.' Representing a safe Democratic district, he nevertheless voted with Republicans 167 times in six years. Even before then, on the El Paso City Council, he was carrying water for his rich Republican father-in-law, who wanted to gentrify the downtown district using eminent domain, destroy affordable housing, and build a Wal-Mart and Target... Let's state it plainly: If you like Beto O'Rourke, you like him because he seems cool, and you think the fact that he seems cool means he's going to bring everyone together under the banner of good feelings and become the next Obama. His appeal, to answer the question above, is purely aesthetic." Stories like Shane Ryan's atyesterday-- Beto O'Rourke Is the Candidate For Vapid Morons are going to start filtering out to the public and dissolve much of his in-deep support. "What, exactly," he asked, "is Beto O'Rourke's appeal? It's not policy-oriented, and it's not identity-based. He's independently rich, and despite his grab at exoticism by transforming 'Robert' into 'Beto,' he's white. As thepiece noted, he won his first House race by 'drawing a large number of white Republican voters to his cause, which deepened suspicion from left-leaning Chicano activists.' Representing a safe Democratic district, he nevertheless voted with Republicans 167 times in six years. Even before then, on the El Paso City Council, he was carrying water for his rich Republican father-in-law, who wanted to gentrify the downtown district using eminent domain, destroy affordable housing, and build a Wal-Mart and Target... Let's state it plainly: If you like Beto O'Rourke, you like him because he seems cool, and you think the fact that he seems cool means he's going to bring everyone together under the banner of good feelings and become the next Obama. His appeal, to answer the question above, is purely aesthetic." America is lucky to have these 2 extraordinary young women in Congress Vanity Fair published a profile of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez by Abigail Tracy, National Enquirer headline! Tracy writes that she's eclipsing Pelosi and Hillary as a target of deranged GOP and corporate media bile and hatred. Ocasio said she feels "an intense amount of pressure. Every day for me feels like Im walking on a high wire. Every single day." In her office there is a wall of pictures of people who have threatened her. And she's under no illusion that the right wings obsession will abate. "The whole goal is to dehumanize." Earlier this week,published a profile of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez by Abigail Tracy, "I Felt Like I was Being Physically Ripped Apart": Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Opens Up About Her New Fame, Trump, And Life In The Bubble . Sounds like aheadline! Tracy writes that she's eclipsing Pelosi and Hillary as a target of deranged GOP and corporate media bile and hatred. Ocasio said she feels "an intense amount of pressure. Every day for me feels like Im walking on a high wire. Every single day." In her office there is a wall of pictures of people who have threatened her. And she's under no illusion that the right wings obsession will abate. "The whole goal is to dehumanize." I think they saw a woman of color-- Latina, no less-- that came from a working-class and poor background, that ascended to federal office, and they said, We cannot allow this to have credibility, because if people saw that she did it, then maybe others will come-- and we cannot let other people like her run for office. We need to make an example out of her, Ocasio-Cortez told me. ...Ocasio-Cortez's critics, it seems, are always waiting for her to slip up-- to say something inaccurate, to expose her relative inexperience, to provide anecdotes that support the narrative that she is a Communist moron. She is nonplused when I ask whether this dynamic scares her. Absolutely, she said, despite the no-holds-barred fearlessness she projects. Every time I do make a mistake, in the smallest sense, I just feel the weight of the world on me. But I know that that is not a reason to stop, Ocasio-Cortez explained. I think one of the taboos that weve been breaking has been you cant learn while youre in office. You know?" It is hard to imagine Ocasio-Cortez following in the footsteps of Crowley, and holding on to the NY-14 seat for decades while she works her way up the leadership ladder in the Democratic Party. Her star power seems too unbridled for that. No sooner had she beaten Crowley than people began to calculate what year shed be old enough to run for president. Ocasio-Cortez has thought about other outcomes, too. God forbid something terrible happens and everything collapses tomorrow . . . I completely walk away from office tomorrow. There will be more people that are coming and running and advancing the same principles, she said. I try to let that be my solace. Meanwhile, she says one thing people arent saying about her is that there is an ordinary reality beneath the caricatures. Its really hard to communicate that Im just a normal person doing her best, she shrugged. Im not a superhero. Im not a villain. Im just a person thats trying. One of her best friends in Congress, freshman Ilhan Omar (D-MN) has it even worse. Sudden fame has swept her up out of relative obscurity too. Each has two Twitter handles. @AOC has 3.53 million followers, the most of anyone in the House. @SpeakerPelosi comes in second with 2.35 million. (Kevin McCarthy's @GOPLeader handle has 247,000 followers and his personal @KevinOMcCarthy has 48,400 followers.) Ocasio's secondary "official" twitter account, @RepAOC, has another 145,000 followers. Ilhan Omar's main handle, @IlhanMN has 740,000 followers and her secondary one, @Ilhan, has 112,000. Both young women are very much in the public eye-- and under a constant barrage of attack. Ilhan stepped on AIPAC's sensitive toes and they won't rest until they drive her out of Congress. Her comments about them-- 100% true (and remember, 100% is more than 99.7%-- were a little too close for comfort for them and they began screeching "antisemitism," even though nothing she has said is even remotely related to antisemitism. It doesn't matter. She's getting the Cynthia McKinney/Earl Hilliard treatment -- political annihilation. The Blue America "best incumbents" thermometer on the right will allow you to chip in to her reelection campaign. Our community is exasperated by Rep. Omars unfulfilled promises to listen and learn from Jewish constituents while seemingly simultaneously finding another opportunity to make an anti-Semitic remark and insult our community, Steve Hunegs, executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas, said in a statement. Omar met with Hunegs last month, after her initial remarks received widespread condemnation. She has continued to meet with Jewish leaders both in Minneapolis and Washington, a spokesman said. Unfortunately, having the opportunity to speak with her about that point didnt dissuade her making that statement, Hunegs told The Hill in an interview Wednesday. We were appalled. Some Democrats are eyeing Bobby Joe Champion, a state senator who has served in the legislature for a decade. Others hope to entice Minneapolis City Councilwoman Andrea Jenkins, the first openly transgender African-American woman elected to public office in the United States. Id be pretty uncomfortable supporting Rep. Omar right now, given what Ive learned about her since the election and given her apparent inability to stop insulting Jews, said Latz, who represents the city of St. Louis Park, home to a large Jewish population, and who supported Omars chief rival in the 2018 Democratic primary. But finding a challenger to take on Omar is a difficult prospect. No House Democrat from Minnesota has ever lost a bid for renomination, according to University of Minnesota political scientist Eric Ostermeier, author of the Smart Politics blog. Only two House members from Minnesota have ever lost primaries, most recently more than a century ago. While she has created a significant amount of controversy for herself and said things that have offended many Americans, Im not sure that one could make the case that she is in trouble yet, said Mike Erlandson, a former Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party (DFL) chairman and chief of staff to ex-Rep. Martin Sabo (D) who ran for the seat against Omars predecessor, Keith Ellison (D), in 2006. Jenkins told The Hill on Wednesday she is not interested in running for Congress, and she backs Omar for reelection. Support is really strong for Congresswoman Omar, but certainly there is some acrimony. I think people feel like shes being unfairly targeted, Jenkins said. I love my job. Im really close to the people I represent. Champion did not respond to several requests for comment. A part of the challenge in fielding a competitor, Minnesota Democrats said, is that Omar is likely to win the endorsement of the state DFL, which comes with access to voter lists and data that unendorsed candidates do not receive. The DFL endorsement is a huge advantage, said Corey Day, a former executive director of the Minnesota DFL. The real fight is usually for the DFL endorsement or to block it. Omar, 37, won the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Partys endorsement in 2018 over two other candidates. She won the DFL primary with 48 percent of the vote, well ahead of former state House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher-- who did not seek the endorsement-- and state Sen. Patricia Torres Ray. Omars win underscored a deep geographic and racial divide in one of the most liberal congressional districts in the country. The district includes the entire city of Minneapolis and its whiter, wealthier western suburbs; about 67 percent of its residents are white, compared with about 84 percent of the state as a whole. Omar, a Somali-American and one of the first two Muslim women to serve in Congress, won big in Minneapolis itself. Kelliher, who is white, won the suburbs west of Minneapolis by wide margins. Omars base inside the city is another challenge any rival would have to overcome. The core of Minneapolis outvotes the suburbs, even though the population may be relatively similar, Erlandson said. Several potential candidates have already taken themselves out of the running. Latz said he considered a bid for all of a half a second before opting against it. Kelliher, appointed in December to take over the state Department of Transportation, is entirely focused on her new job, a department spokesman said. Meanwhile, Jenkins noted that I do not want to spend all my time fundraising. A representative for Omars campaign said they do not fear a primary challenge. Ilhan entered a 10 week six-way primary and she believes you get what you organize for. She organized her district to win and shes really excited to do that again over the next two years, a campaign spokesman told The Hill. Samantha B's segment is the best look at this "controversy" you'll find. I wish Pelosi had said it. But she can't-- big Jewish donors won't allow it. Oh, and speaking of Pelosi... there's another way of looking at her latest "impeachment is off the table" statement. Maybe impeachment isn't really off the table . Maybe Pelosi is planning to gut him like a fish and serve him up as some nice piping hot San Francisco cioppino Democrats see a wide range of potentially impeachable offenses, including obstruction of justice, based on Trumps efforts to impede federal investigations, starting with the firing of FBI Director James Comey; accepting campaign assistance from Russia; violating campaign-finance laws by paying hush money to alleged mistresses; violations of the Constitutions emoluments clause; and abuses of presidential power. While Democrats in Congress expect the Mueller report will bolster the case, many believe theyve seen ample evidence. We have already seen deeply concerning evidence of the Presidents lack of fitness for office, the degree to which profound conflicts of interest may be guiding his foreign policy, as well as evidence of criminality on the part of the President, Representative Adam Schiff of California told reporters on March 12. Conventional wisdom in Washington tends to treat impeachment as a fringe crusade, on a par with campaigns by antifluoridation activists or UFO enthusiasts, and views Pelosi as right to resist this momentum. Many believe it would be a political disaster for Democrats, galvanizing Trumps base and alienating moderates. Republicans have taken to goading their opponents to try it, while White House officials say they relish the prospect of the Democratic Party tearing itself apart over the issue. It would play right into our hands, says a House Republican leadership aide. Speaker Pelosi by Nancy Ohanian But Pelosi is actually playing a deeper game. Her aides note that shes never ruled impeachment out. All shes done, they say, is set a standard: increased popular support and some degree of GOP backing. Behind the scenes, she and her team are working to see that standard is met. The easy thing to do would be to start down the path of impeachment. Thats a trap, a senior Democratic aide tells TIME. Now that we have the gavel and can expose all of this wrongdoing, I think you will start to see a shift in public opinion and movement of Republicans. For the past two years, the Democrats have coordinated their investigations and oversight of the Trump Administration in a regular Friday-morning staff meeting. Following a culture of corruption messaging framework set out in a memo by Representative John Sarbanes, they determine issues and people to target, parceling out document and witness requests to various committees. Even without the House majority, the aide notes, this push contributed to the departure of four Cabinet officials accused of misconduct, and the public has heeded their work: according to a March Quinnipiac poll, nearly two-thirds of Americans now believe Trump committed crimes before becoming President. Pelosis two-pronged test aims to avoid what happened with President Bill Clintons impeachment, which backfired on Republicans and boosted Clintons popularity. When she first became Speaker in 2007, Pelosi quashed Democrats zeal to impeach George W. Bush for the Iraq War, believing it was misguided. She believes her party won the 2018 midterms by focusing on issues like health care, not Trump. But there are already signs Pelosis standard could be met. Public support for Trumps impeachment hovers around 45% in recent polls. Thats the highest for any President since Richard Nixon, whose impeachment was favored by 43% of Americans in March 1974, five months before he resigned. Large majorities say they would favor Trumps impeachment and removal from office if Mueller finds he authorized coordination with Russia or obstructed justice. To date, congressional Republicans have staunchly defended the President, who has the overwhelming support of the partys voters. But their calculation could change. Someday, all of a sudden, its going to be like the Berlin Wall coming down, George Conway, the prominent conservative lawyer and Trump critic who is married to White House counselor Kellyanne Conway, says of Republican support for the President. You never know what straw is going to break the camels back. But I firmly believe this is going to happen. Over the coming months, Pelosi and her lieutenants will use congressional hearings and investigations to paint a picture for the public. This effort will constitute an impeachment drive in all but name. And while some House Democrats would rather use the I word from the start, most privately believe theyll get there when the time is ripe. Theres remarkable consensus about impeachment now, says Representative Jamie Raskin of Maryland, a former constitutional-law professor who serves on the Oversight and Judiciary committees. The caucus does not want this to be a fetish or a crusade, but the caucus also doesnt want it to be a taboo. The question of whether to impeach Trump isnt just a Washington parlor game. Attempting to undo the will of the voters and remove a duly elected President is one of the most consequential powers entrusted to the Legislative Branch. The next presidential election could hinge on how such an effort plays out. Yet much as Pelosi may not want to say it now, even her reticent Democratic allies in the House admit the push for impeachment is likely coming. It gets more difficult to avoid every day, says a House Democrat who has voted against every impeachment resolution presented so far. ...Soon, it will fall to Pelosi to try to bring Muellers findings to light. If youre ever going to get to impeachment, you need to get all that data, says Representative Mark Pocan of Wisconsin. Pocan once gave Pelosi a pair of oven mitts emblazoned with one of her favorite phrases: too hot to handle. Its shorthand for her strategy of leveraging public opinion to pressure Republicans to do things they oppose, like ending family separations at the border or reopening the government. The idea is that no matter where your opponents start out, or how committed to the President they profess to be, when the politics changes, theyll change with it. If the politics of impeachment do change, and Democrats initiate impeachment proceedings, the process would get under way with a vote in the Judiciary Committee, chaired by Representative Jerrold Nadler, a no-nonsense New Yorker with a night-school law degree and a photographic memory for the various strands of the Mueller probe. Though Nadler nominally shares Pelosis stance against impeachment, the standard he has set isnt quite the same as the Speakers. Already he has said publicly that he believes Trump obstructed justice. Separately, he has said he sees attacks on Democratic institutions and the rule of law as impeachable offenses. And unlike Pelosi, Nadler believes Republican support isnt a prerequisite for opening an impeachment inquiry. We are not going to rule it out or in, Nadler tells TIME. If our duty is to do it, we will do it. If its not, we wont. Impeachment is not a punishment. It is not a political act to say we think its a good idea to get rid of the President. Impeachment is a defense of the Constitution, a defense of liberty. Its a very blunt sword that should only be drawn if absolutely necessary. But it may be. Thursday, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn the the House that "After the last few days of government chaos and some defeats, all of us now have the opportunity and the responsibility to work together to find a solution to the crisis facing this country, where the government has so dramatically failed to do so. We have begun to hold meetings with members across the house to find a consensus and a compromise that meets the needs of our country." However, a vote "enable the House of Commons to find a way forward that can command majority support" was narrowly defeated-- 314 to 312. On the other hand, the vote for a second referendum, which seems the only sane thing to do, was overwhelmingly defeated-- 334-85. But, a Brexit vote finally went Theresa May's way. 413 members voted to delay Brexit, while 202 voted against. It took support from Labour to pass it and 8 of her own cabinet ministers, including Brexit secretary Steve Barclay, voted against her. The delay is for at least 3 months but it could be a lot longer. All 27 EU members have to agree to grant the UK an extension. EU Council president Donald Tusk favors an ever longer extension than the 3 months May is asking for. The Dutch prime minister, Mark Rutte, isn't as optimist and conciliatory as Tusk. "Whats the point of whining on for months on end while we have been going around in circles for two years?" he asked. "When Theresa May comes asking us for an extension, our response will be: 'For what? To what end?'" Guardian columnist Jonathan Freedland, wrote that columnist Jonathan Freedland, wrote that May has finally got the Brexiters where she wants them . "MPs," he wrote, "had the chance to take back control of Brexit-- wresting this tortured process from a weak, flailing and moribund government-- and they ducked it... losing by just two votes, 312 to 314, but MPs passed up the opportunity to take charge and say, at long last, what kind of Brexit they want. They preferred instead to grant Theresa May yet another lifeline for her own deal-- which, incredibly, will come back for a third meaningful vote on Tuesday. A couple of weeks ago there were 24 freshman Democrats with 100% ratings from ProgressivePunch. Today there are 16. The votes haven't been that hard that there are many reasons to drift away from 100%. Among the dozens of non-freshmen who still have 100% for the 116th Congress are not just sterling progressives like Barbara Lee, Jamie Raskin, Pramila Jayapal, Ted Lieu, Ro Khanna, Mark Pocan, Jimmy Gomez, Jan Schakowsky, Raul Grijalva, Jim McGovern and Judy Chu but also some pretty crappy New Dems who are usually at the bottom of the barrel, like Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Sean Patrick Maloney, Julia Brownley, Terri Sewell, Darren Soto, Derek Kilmer, even reactionary Blue Dog Vicente Gonzalez! And yet... the number of freshman members with "F" ratings (now 25) has been growing: Steven Horsford (New Dem-NV) Angie Craig (New Dem-MN) Chrissy Houlahan (New Dem-PA) Susie Lee (New Dem (New Dem-NV) Lucy McBath (New Dem-GA) Katie Porter (D-CA) Kim Schrier (New Dem-WA) Abigail Spanberger (Blue Dog-VA) Ed Case (Blue Dog-HI) Abby Finkenauer (D-IA) Andy Kim (D-NJ) Max Rose (Blue Dog-NY) Mikie Sherrill (Blue Dog-NJ) Cindy Axne (New Dem-IA) Antonio Delgado (D-NY) Jared Golden (D-ME) Kendra Horn (Blue Dog-OK) Elaine Luria (New Dem-VA) Elissa Slotkin (New Dem-MI) Anthony Brindisi (Blue Dog-NY) Sharice Davids (New Dem-KS) Xochitl Torres Small (Blue Dog-NM) Joe Cunningham (Blue Dog-SC) Ben McAdams (Blue Dog-UT) Jeff Van Drew (Blue Dog-NJ) Republicans Justin Amash (MI) and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA) have more progressive scores than some of these Democrats! Clueless media and deceptive DC politicians always refer to members of the Republican wing of the Democratic Party-- people who vote with the GOP on core issues-- as "moderates," subtly implying that Democrats who, in the spirit of the party of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt, support working families and policies like Medicare-for-All, the Green New Deal, a living minimum wage, free public universities, Job Guarantee, etc, are "non-moderates" (ie, radicals or extremists) and that their popular policies are extreme. The refrain is always that their districts are too red to support progressive policies. But that is often false and never proven. Take Ed Case-- one of the worst Democrats in Congress . His district has a PVI of D+17. Not only did Obama win it both times with around 70% of the vote, in 2016 even as weak and flawed a candidate as Hillary eviscerated Trump, 63.1% to 30.5%. There are no Democratic policies Case couldn't get to the left of his constituents on. Instead, he totally sucks. Freshman Democrat Mike Levin, who has a 100% score, flipped a red district with a PVI of R+1, but he's not running away from his party's values. Neither is Lauren Underwood, who flipped a tough Illinois district with a PVI of R+5-- another freshman with a 100% voting record. Matt Cartwright is a full-on progressive who has always campaigned on progressive issues in a Pennsylvania district with an R+1 PVI and where Trump pulverized Hillary 53.3% to 43.7%. Matt won anyway and last year the GOP threw millions of dollars against him and advertised non-stop that he is actually Nancy Pelosi. He still beat his multimillionaire Wall Street bankster opponent, John Chrin 135,603 (54.6%) to 112,563 (45.4). None of that will ever stop the lies about how progressives can't win in districts where Republicans have beat shit Democrats in the past. Look at Maine's mythical 2nd district. Trump beat Hillary there and before that the Democrats had run a godawful Republican-lite New Dem/EMILY's List concoction-- the absolute worst, worthless horror show of a candidate imaginable. The progressive legislator Jared Golden ran, the DCCC demanded he join the Blue Dogs. He laughed in their faces, joined the Congressional Progressive Caucus and ran on progressives issues-- and won. Politico was only too happy to publish a piece by Laura Barron-Lopez filled with all those rubbish assumptions-- All that said,was only too happy to publish a piece by Laura Barron-Lopez filled with all those rubbish assumptions-- Centrists Fear Socialist Tag Will Cost Democrats The House In 2020 . As you would expect from Barron-Lopez, in the very first sentence she defines the conservative Democrats from the Republican wing of the party as "moderates" and pukes out the carefully crafted DCCC conventional wisdom that the conservatives delivered the majority to the Dems, as though their voters wanted right-of-center policies, which is patently false. Predictably, Barron-Lopez's villains are named in the first sentence: "Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Rashida Tlaib or Ilhan Omar." She lauds the right-of-center Democrats: "They havent all blindly signed on to the 'Green New Deal.' They haven't been widely accused of anti-Semitism. They aren't hungry to impeach President Donald Trump." Barron-Lopez can't sing their praises loudly enough with her nonsensical DCCC/Problem Solvers-developed propaganda, tailor-made for ignorant and lazy journalists: They are the ones on the front lines, defending Democrats House majority. And many of the endangered Democrats already see their outspoken colleagues as a potential obstacle standing between them and reelection in 2020. As we run up to this presidential [election], we need to show that Democrats, as a whole, are not socialists," said Rep. Katie Hill, who last November flipped a Southern California district that Republicans held for the previous quarter-century. "Were not pushing for impeachment without serious cause and serious evidence." Hill, a New Dem, ran in a district with a new Democratic registration advantage and pretended to be a progressive for much of the campaign. She has a good voting record in Congress but comes up with statements like this implying that other Democrats are pushing for impeachment without serious cause and serious evidence. A nice enough woman, she's playing right into GOP hands. Unfortunately her uncontrollable jealously of AOC is a punchline on Capitol Hill. With the progressive squad of Ocasio-Cortez, Tlaib, Omar and Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) capturing most of the headlines, the vulnerable Democrats are left to respond in stronger and stronger terms. The four liberals have forced majority-makers like Hill to distinguish themselves with voters and donors early and often. You have these four members frankly that were elected from seats that are going to be Democratic no matter what and represent a very small fraction of the party as a whole, said Hill. And its like theyre the only ones that exist. And as the presidential election nears, Hill and her fellow at-risk Democrats will need all the attention they can get. Republicans must win 18 seats to take back the House, and they have ample targets. Republicans are setting their sights on the 31 Democratically held districts that voted for Trump in 2016, followed by another two-dozen districts like Hill's that didn't back Trump but have Republican DNA. To survive, vulnerable Democrats are shrugging off their more progressive colleagues. It's a strategy they employed last year when Republicans dropped millions on a steady stream of TV ads tying them to then-Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. The Pelosi-themed ads ultimately didnt work and Democrats netted 40 seats-- their largest gain since Watergate. But the 'tweet first, explain later' strategy, utilized by Ocasio-Cortez and friends, who wield nearly 5 million Twitter followers between them, puts Democrats like Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) in a tough spot. We all won in districts when we were accused of being somebody else, or something else, said Spanberger, before reprising the viral line from one of her 2018 debates: I am Abigail Spanberger. Im not anybody else. Spanberger is among more than a dozen Democrats who represent districts Trump won by more than 6 percentage points in 2016-- the top GOP targets for 2020. The list includes two entrenched incumbents who have seen their districts drift toward Republicans: Reps. Collin Peterson (D-MN) and Matt Cartwright (D-PA). [Cartwright always scores an "A" and Peterson is usually a reliable vote for the GOP on anything important. Since ProgressivePunch was first started, Peterson's voting record has never once risen to the status of a "D." He's also horrifyingly corrupt and belongs in prison for systematically taking bribes from AgriBusiness.] But the seats most coveted by Republicans belong to newcomers like Spanberger and New York Democrat Max Rose, an Army combat veteran who won a Staten Island-based district Trump carried by nearly 10 points. At least three Republicans are already eyeing a challenge to the 32-year-old Rose. This campaign will be a contact sport, and I have no problem with that, Rose said. Rose is focused on the promises he's made, including construction of a sea wall, improving commute times for constituents on Staten Island, which is not connected to the rest of New York's subway system, or lowering prescription-drug costs. With a Republican in the White House, it's often hard to deliver on these promises, but the party hopes to show voters that it will pass bills aimed at addressing health care costs and creating jobs. And Democrats like Rose have to stay on message while fending off 30-second TV ads flashing images of Ocasio-Cortez, who is sure to join, if not replace, Speaker Nancy Pelosi as Republicans No. 1 villain. Pressed on how hed combat it, Rose quipped: Howd that work out for them? Rose, who has tactically eschewed most of the national controversies, voted against Pelosi for speaker, as did a handful of the Democrats who won in red districts in 2018. Those who called for new leadership, or outright vowed to vote against Pelosi but ultimately didnt, have already come under attack by Republican outside groups like the Congressional Leadership Fund. Wow, thats innovative stuff, said Rose, in his distinctive New York accent. Im shaking in my boots. Id like to think that the Republican Party is not run by a bunch of folks that subscribe to be nationalists, like Steve King does, added Rep. Harley Rouda (D-CA), who defeated then-Rep. Dana Rohrabacher in Orange County, the Reagan-era GOP stronghold. So while Steve Kings views dont represent the entire Republican Party, those on the far left of the Democratic Party do not represent the mainstream caucus. Another top GOP target, Rep. Joe Cunningham (D-SC), has broken with the party on a number of procedural votes used by Republicans to divide Democrats. To demonstrate an eagerness to work with Republicans, Cunningham has also made a point to get GOP cosponsors on legislation he introduces. I cant control whatever anyone else says, but I can control what I do. And I was voted in this seat to be an independent check, said Cunningham, whom GOP operatives have dubbed an "accidental congressman" after his victory in a coastal South Carolina seat Trump won by 13 points in 2016. I think if you do that, and you have a clear record of that, and youre honest and transparent about it-- then people will send you back. But Republicans hope that hammering Cunningham and other Democrats in competitive seats by tying them to their better-known colleagues will prove fruitful. In addition to reprising their failed Pelosi attacks from 2018, National Republican Campaign Committee aides say they will add freshmen like Ocasio-Cortez and Omar to the mix. The thinking is: This time it will stick because Democrats are in control, and Republicans are no longer battling a hypothetical Democratic agenda. Omar's recent comments about politician's support for Israel-- seen by many as anti-Semitic-- has put some Democrats on the defensive. Asked about the Democratic divisions on display last week, Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-IL), who won a Chicagoland district Trump carried by 4 points, dismissed the controversy. "Im home every weekend and have the opportunity to talk to folks about health care and lower prescription drug costs. And so, quite candidly, this ends up as a Washington conversation," said Underwood, "and not a conversation we have in the Illinois 14th." But the clearest path to winning back the suburban women the GOP lost in 2018, Republicans say, is constant messaging on socialism and late-term abortion bills passed by Democratic legislatures. The more were talking about socialism, the better, said one NRCC official, granted anonymity to discuss party strategy. Republicans lost women by 19 percentage points in 2018. The fundraising deadline at the end of March will provide one of the first looks at the strength of the vulnerable freshman Democrats. Hill, who checks in regularly with the red-district Democrats as a freshman representative in leadership, admitted that she and her colleagues are working hard to post aggressive fundraising numbers. The flood of cash going to Democratic presidential contenders has a number of the freshman Democrats concerned, Hill said, noting that donors have told her they're contributing to multiple Democrats running for the White House. Weve got these huge fundraising targets because we want to scare off potential challengers, Hill said. If we win the White House but lose the House, then were in the same boat that were in now. Part of that survival strategy is an ability for the frontline Democrats, many of whom have never served in government, to create their own distinct profiles-- even if it makes them unpopular among their Democratic colleagues. Sometimes I may be necessarily offensive, Rose said of his willingness to split with party leadership. I sat alone at the cafeteria table when I was in the 5th grade. Maybe Ill have another round. And frustration with the group of liberal rock stars isn't going away any time soon, particularly on hot-button proposals like the Green New Deal. "Were caught in a lose-lose because the activists are completely paying attention to Alexandria. And so if we arent supporting it, then were seen as bad Democrats," said Hill. "But if we do support it, then thats going to be damaging to our campaigns." Although Tom Suozzi represents a tough swing district on Long Island and joined both the New Dems and Problem Solvers, he marches to his own drum and makes his decisions based on what he thinks is right for his constituents. Despite being a New Dem, he has a stellar decades-long record on immigrants and on the environment and is an original co-sponsor of the Green New Deal. Earlier today, he told me that "For the Democrats to defeat Trump, the Tea Party, the Freedom Caucus and the GOP agenda, we are going to need the whole team. From the progressives to the moderates. From AOC to Colin Peterson. We need the energy and excitement of the young progressives, to the reliability and experience of the tried and true Democrats. We need to admire Alexandria, at 28, being one of the most well known figures in all of American politics who is pushing for a youthful and dramatic response to climate change (and other things). While at the same time we must embrace the members of our Democratic team who have won in right of center districts and helped deliver the majority. We need to learn from each other and stop the dismissing the importance of our diversity. To make the dream work, it is going to take team work." A former ANZ Bank employee will be tried for allegedly falsifying customers' signatures and misappropriating over VND91.3 billion ($4 million). Ho Chi Minh prosecutors have submitted to the court an indictment against Nguyen Pham Gia Tho, a former employee of ANZ, and his sister-in-law Nguyen Tuong Vi, director of an agricultural product export/import company, for appropriating property through fraud. According to the indictment, in 2015, Tho was head of customer relations at ANZ's South Saigon branch in District 7 and was tasked with mobilizing savings deposits, providing insurance sales advice and proposing mortgages. During his time, he allegedly falsified signatures of customers with saving accounts to register for internet banking service and then transferred their money into his or his relatives' accounts. Specifically, in early 2016, Tho was asked by a customer named Mai to help manage her bonds worth VND3 billion ($130,000) with securities firm VPBS. Abusing her trust, he falsified six contracts to mortgage the bonds and secure loans from VPBS. Tho asked his mother to impersonate Mai and register for internet banking service, then transferred the VND3 billion to her account so that he could withdraw from it. In July 2017, to have money for a fruit trading business with his sister-in-law Vi, Tho falsified signatures of several ANZ customers to open joint bank accounts in their names and one of his relatives. He then falsified documents to secure loans from the bank for the joint accounts before appropriating the money by transferring them into Vi's and his own accounts. In total, Tho was determined to have misappropriated a total of VND91.3 billion (nearly $4 million), with Vi an accomplice in the misappropriation of over VND80 billion of this money. The relatives of Tho and Vi, whose identities were used to open the joint accounts, will not be prosecuted as investigators concluded they were unaware of the fraud and did not benefit from it. 22 Vietnamese arrested Thursday on suspicion of working illegally in Taiwan could be deported, the Liberty Times reported Friday. They were arrested during a raid on an underground construction project in Hsinchu County after the Coast Guard Administration officials in Kaohsiung got a tip-off. Of the 22, 13 were working immigrants, 6 were tourists and 3 were visiting their relatives in Taiwan. Two Taiwanese employers could also be prosecuted for their involvement in the case for violation of the Employment Service Act, and face fines of $4,860 to $24,300, the report said. Taiwan has become a sought after destination for Vietnamese seeking jobs overseas ever since it lifted a 10-year ban on certain categories of Vietnamese workers in 2015. Vietnamese workers in the territory can earn $700 - $800 a month, three or four times the typical remuneration in Vietnam. Last year, 65,000 Vietnamese workers were sent to Taiwan, accounting for nearly half of Vietnam's overseas workforce. The reasons cited by animal health officials for the African swine fever outbreak do not match local conditions, provincial authorities say. The differences came to the fore at an emergency meeting convened Thursday afternoon by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development with 17 provinces and cities so far affected by the African swine fever. Pham Van Dong, director of Animal Health Department, said initial investigations indicate that many livestock farmers and traders have not fully realized the dangerous nature of the fever; and continue to trade, transport, slaughter and consume infected pigs. There are also those who engage in these activities for immediate benefit, disregarding the risks involved, the director said. The virus remains for long in its infected pig, in fresh meat, in the environment and even on tools. Meanwhile, small scale establishments with a high density of animals, where the farm is part of the farmers living environment; do not implement disease-prevention measures regularly. More than 23,000 pigs have been killed so far and the disease has mainly broken out in small households with poor sanitation and bio-security conditions, and has not appeared in regulated farms, it was noted at the meeting. The animal health department also noted that it was very likely that the disease would continue to spread. Dong said that investigation of 44 outbreaks showed that a majority of them were caused by transporting, trading and slaughtering of infected pigs. An area is disinfected with lime powder and chemicals following detection of swine fever. Photo by VnExpress/Ngoc Thanh Not really Representatives of many provinces at the meeting said that the local outbreaks were not caused by the factors mentioned by the animal health officials. Do Thi Minh Hoa, Vice Chairman of Bac Kan Province, said that only one pig was infected with African swine fever in the province. This pig had been raised for nine months by a household. The disease had occurred in a mountainous district, where theres just one motorbike path to get to the infected area, so it would have been difficult for the disease to spread because of the factors announced by the department, she said. As in Bac Kan, the disease in Dien Bien Province was discovered in remote villages, more than 10km from the main road. These are places where most inhabitants are ethnic minority households with little interaction with the outside world, so "the province cannot determine the cause of the spread," said Lo Van Tien, Vice Chairman of Dien Bien. "Locals here have a habit that when their pigs fall ill or die, they gather their relatives to slaughter and eat the meat, and also take it home as leftover. We think this is maybe one of the reasons," he said. Officials in Ha Nam Province said they have not been able to decide the cause of spread of the disease in their area. Agriculture Minister Nguyen Xuan Cuong said the animal health department should soon determine the real causes of the spread of African swine fever in Vietnam. "This is a very important issue, because knowing the cause will make proposed solutions effective," Cuong said. According to the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), African swine fever is a severe viral disease affecting domestic and wild pigs. Mortality rates are usually 100 percent. The virus spreads through bodily fluids such as blood and mucus, causing hemorrhagic fever. There is currently no cure for it. However, it is not a risk to human health and other types of animals, experts have said. Twenty countries and territories have reported outbreaks of the disease since 2017 and over one million pigs have been culled, according to the World Organization for Animal Health. Vietnam is the third Asian country hit by the disease, following China and Mongolia. In Vietnam, the first outbreak this year was spotted in Hung Yen Province on February 1. As of last Monday, the epidemic had spread to 17 provinces and cities in northern and north central Vietnam, including the capital Hanoi. Parents and children wait for medical test results in the National Institution of Malaria, Parasite and Entomology in Hanoi March 16, 2019. Photo by VnExpress/Duong Tam Panicked parents in Bac Ninh have been flocking to Hanoi medical institutes with their kids after a tapeworm outbreak. The National Institute of Malaria, Parasite and Entomology (NIMPE) and the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases respectively received 550 and 675 requests for tapeworm tests on Friday and Saturday. Thousands of worried parents rushed to Hanoi with their kids after news broke out that 57 children of the Thanh Khuong Kindergarten in northern Bac Ninh Province have been found with tapeworm infections. Late last month, pork suspected to be infected with the parasite was found in the schools kitchen. The actual source of the tapeworms has not been confirmed yet. "Im getting impatient. Ive been here since 5 a.m. but my childs test results are not ready yet," said Nguyen Nhan from Dai Dong Thanh Commune in Bac Ninh. Nhan and 10 other parents from the commune decided to bring their children to NIMPE Saturday after hearing the news about the 57 children getting infected with tapeworms. Nguyen Van Nam, another parent from Dai Dong Thanh, said he had come to Hanoi because the school that his child went to had the same food supplier as the Thanh Khuong Kindergarten. "I believe that there will be more parents coming to Hanoi next week," he added. The number of infections detected by the medical facilities so far has not been revealed. Parents and children gather in front of a department in the National Institute of Malaria, Parasite and Entomology in Hanoi March 16, 2019. Photo by VnExpress/Duong Tam The Ministry of Education and Training has ordered Bac Ninhs Department of Education to carry out food safety inspections at schools in the province. The pork suspected to be infected with tapeworms is being tested for food safety criteria, local officials have said. Pork tapeworms, or Taenia solium, are distributed globally. The parasite infects humans through the consumption of contaminated food. Upon infection, tapeworms can travel to different organs, including muscles, eyes and brain. Symptoms include seizure, paralysis, headaches and memory loss if the parasite does migrate to the brain, or blindness if it gets to the eyes. It takes a day to kill mature tapeworms and two weeks to destroy all eggs inside a human body. State budget deficit in Ukraine up 8.5 times Over the two months, the Ministry of Finance placed domestic bonds in the amount equivalent to UAH 60.1 billion. If you see a spelling error on our site, select it and press Ctrl+Enter U.S. will never recognize control of Kremlin over Crimea Embassy in Ukraine The United States supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and will never recognize the annexation of Crimea. "Five years ago, Russia organized an illegitimate referendum on the annexation of Crimea. The United States does not and will not recognize the Kremlin's control of Crimea," the Twitter account of the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine says. "We expressed clear and unwavering U.S. support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity during the visit of the USS Donald Cook to Odesa," it says. Commander of the Joint Forces Serhiy Nayev has said that the Ukrainian military reliably control the contact line in Donbas and never fire on settlements. "I state that at this stage the Joint Forces have repeatedly demonstrated the ability not only to repel the strikes of the first and second army corps formed by the Russian military leadership (the army of the so-called LPR and DPR), but also strike back adequately. We control the contact line in Donbas reliably," Nayev said in an interview with the Fakty (Facts) newspaper. At the same time, he stressed that the Ukrainian military should be ready "every minute and every second" to any possible challenges and threats. Poroshenko thanks U.S. and Canada for introduction of 'Azov' package of sanctions President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko has expressed gratitude to Canada and the United States for expanding sanctions against Russian individuals and legal entities in connection with aggression of the Russian Federation in Ukraine. "Powerful and triune transatlantic strike against Russia's plans to occupy the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait. Washington and Ottava together with Brussels declared the introduction of the Azov package of sanctions," Poroshenko said on Facebook. "Grateful to the partners for support and clear position on the eve of the fifth anniversary of the Crimean peninsula occupation. Ukraine-Transatlantic coalition is united and firm as never before in protecting of the fundamental principles of international law, especially of sovereignty and inviolability of the borders of Ukraine," he said. "The aggressor must acknowledge that the price for the armed aggression will keep rising!" the head of state said. Turkey still does not recognize annexation of Crimea by Russia, continues to support Crimean Tatars on peninsula Foreign Ministry Five years after Russia's annexation of Crimea, Turkey continues not to recognize this act, supports the sovereignty of Ukraine and the protection of the rights of Crimean Tatars. "Ukraine's Autonomous Republic of Crimea was annexed by the Russian Federation, in violation of international law, based on an illegitimate referendum held five years ago today (March 16)," the Turkish Foreign Ministry said on its website. "On this occasion, we reiterate that we do not recognize the de-facto situation caused by this act and reaffirm our support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine," it said. "The situation of the Crimean Tatar Turks, the indigenous people of Crimea, continues to be a priority for us. We will continue to support Crimean Tatars to live in peace and safely in their historic homeland, preserving their identity," the report says. The issue of depriving the Russian Federation of the right of veto in the UN Security Council in matters relating to its aggression against Ukraine is still relevant, Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine Serhiy Kyslytsia has said. "In our opinion, the implementation of Article 27 of the charter, which stresses that in the Security Council, a member of which is a party to the dispute, it should abstain from voting is as relevant as it was before," he said at a meeting of the UN Security Council in connection with the fifth anniversary of the annexation of Crimea by Russia. "We believe that the France/Mexico initiative on veto restraint in the context of large-scale misdeeds is a step in the right direction in the general context of efforts to reform the Security Council," the official stressed. At the same time, he quoted President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko who said that Russia must be deprived of the right of veto, at least in those issues that concern Russian aggression against Ukraine. Brian Hook, the State Department's special representative on Iran, says the U.S. campaign of economic pressure on Iran has had "a lot of progress" to the extent that Tehran has decreased its military budget and its client, the Lebanese Hezbollah is making public appeals for donations. Speaking in an interview with Alhurra television on March 15, Hook said, "What you can expect to see as the result of our sanctions on Iran is further denying the regime of its revenues. I think you have recently seen Iran's best client, the Lebanese Hezbollah, making public appeal for donations. This is I think a consequence of our sanctions," adding that "You know that the Iranian regime has decreased the budget for its defense and for the IRGC. We certainly are making a lot of progress in our campaign of economic pressures on Iran." Asked whether Iran had any success in evading US sanctions, Hook said, he did not think Iranians made progress in evading U.S. sanctions. "We know that our campaign of maximum economic pressure is having a significant effect on the Iranian regime. We are denying the regime billions and billions of dollars partly through our oil and financial sanctions, and also we are closing a lot of loopholes," he said. "To deter the regime from evading our sanctions we are taking a much different approach than the previous administration did to the enforcement of our sanctions," Brian Hook explained. Referring to Iran's regional ambitions, Hook said that Iran's foreign policy does not respect the sovereignty or the autonomy of other states. "Since 1979 they have sought to undermine various states and they want to replace their national identity with a sectarian identity," Hook said, adding that this has created a lot of instability in the Middle East and contributed to a lot of violence and bloodshed. Hook also made references to Iran's President Hassan Rouhani's recent visit to Iraq, saying, "When President Rouhani comes into Iraq promising a lot of benefits for the people, you should look to see how the Iranian people have been doing under President Rouhani. They have lost ground by every economic indicator." Hook stressed, " This is a regime that does not invest in its own people. So we shouldn't expect them to be supporting or helping the Iraqi people in any way. They are pawns in a larger foreign policy game." He also made it clear that Iran is not likely to stand by promises made by Rouhani during his visit to Iraq. "I would point you to the way President Rouhani has delivered on his economic promises that he made in 2013. He has failed to deliver on those promises to the Iranian people.The Iraqis should not expect any different results for them," Hook said. Meanwhile he warned Iraq to be mindful of U.S. sanctions. "We do expect them to comply with U.S. Sanctions. We think it is very much in Iraq's interest. Because the more we deny this regime revenues that it uses to destabilize Iraq and the Middle East, through funding the IRGC and its Qods Force, the better it is for the Iraqi people." "We have a much different approach than President Rouhani takes to Iraq," said Hook, adding "What he says publicly, no matter what agreement he signs, we have to look at the underlying motives, which is to dominate Iraq. That is their intention. They are certainly trying to create this Shiite corridor of power across the Middle East." The U.S. diplomat reiterated: "The United States very much wants a strong and sovereign Iraq. We want the Iraqi people to have freedom to make their own decision without interference by President Rouhani and Qassem Suleimani." However, hook pointed out how Washington tried to make life easier for Iraq with respect to the implications of U.S. sanctions on Iran. "We have granted an exception for southern Iraq to import electricity. We did that to help the Iraqi people. We certainly didn't do it to benefit Iran. We have made an exception so that the money goes to a special account so that the regime is denied the hard currency that it uses to expand its foreign policy." He further warned Iraqis against working with Iranian banks. "The United States designated many dozens of Iranian banks that are dirty banks. They are deeply corrupt banks that serve only the regime. So we have made it very clear to banks around the world that we will sanction any sanctionable activity. I think the Iraqi banks certainly know that there are banks that we have designated as such. These are the same bank that the SWIFT financial system also took out of its financial network because these banks are not in compliance with SWIFT standards." Hook reminded that the Iranian financial system is deliberately dark and opaque. "It does not comply with those standards because the regime does not want people to know where the money goes. Because if people could see that they would see that the money is spent all around the Middle East, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Yemen and Bahrain in order to achieve its ambitions to dominate the middle East," said Hook. Praise for prominent jailed Iranian lawyer and human rights defender Nasrin Sotoudeh by France's representative to the UN's Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) last Tuesday turned into a war of words between Tehran and Paris. CSW, launched in 1946, is the principal global intergovernmental body exclusively dedicated to the promotion of gender equality and empowerment of women. Hundreds of delegates from around the world participate in its annual meetings. Iranian MP and representative to the 63rd session of CSW, Farideh Olad Qobad (Olad Ghobad) harshly criticized her French counterpart Marlene Schiappa and accused her of "irresponsible behavior" and "abusing her country's position in the UN Security Council (UNSC) to interfere in other countries internal affairs." The Islamic Republic's official news agency (IRNA) cited Ms. Olad Qobad as saying on Thursday, March 14, I suggest she [Schiappa] deals with the widespread discontent within her own country instead of meddling in other countries affairs. Earlier in a brief speech on Tuesday, Schiappa, Secretary of Equality between the women and the men in President Emannuel Macron's Administration, had referred to her boss recent decision to allocate a seat to Sotoudeh, in the G7 Consultative Council for Gender Equality. During her short speech, Schiappa said, "I would like to relay France's support and my sisterly salute to Nasrin Sotoudeh who is currently behind bars in Iran." Schiappa's remark was immediately followed by prolonged applause. Later in a tweet, Schiappa reiterated her remark. Sotoudeh, 55, who has defended political prisoners and women demanding equal rights in Iran has been continuously persecuted by Iranian authorities. Most recently, she was arrested in June 2018 and has received multiple convictions on dubious charges, in secret trials. She will serve at least 15 years. Without mentioning Sotoudeh and her case, Olad Qobad followed the footsteps of the Islamic Republic's authorities to throw the ball into the "enemy's" court by condemning Paris for the recent discontent and protests, known as "Gilets Jaunes" (Yellow Vests) in France. During nearly four months of the Yellow Vests protests in France, Iranian authorities have repeatedly rebuked France for it. The Chief Commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), Major General Mohammad Ali Jafari has gone even further claiming that "Gilet Jaunes protests had been inspired by the Islamic Revolution" in Iran. Meanwhile, IRGC-run Fars news agency reported that tens of students at Shi'ite seminary assemble outside French embassy on Thursday in Tehran to express condolences to the relatives of the victims recently killed during the Yellow Vests protests. JERUSALEM, March 15 (Reuters) - Benny Gantz, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's toughest rival in Israel's upcoming parliamentary election, dismissed as "political gossip" on Friday media reports of allegations that his mobile phone had been hacked by Iranian intelligence. The former Israeli armed forces chief was speaking near the border with Gaza following a day which saw the most serious escalation in months between Israel's military and Palestinians in the coastal enclave. "We're in the middle of an ongoing security event...and someone's putting out a political gossip story," Gantz said. "I do not think Benny Gantz is the story here. There's no security issue there. No threat and no blackmail." Israel's Channel 12 news reported on Thursday that the country's Shin Bet security services believed Iranian state intelligence had accessed the ex-general's personal information and correspondences and had informed him of the hack five weeks ago. Gantz's centrist Blue and White party has outpaced Netanyahu's conservative Likud in polls in the run-up to the April 9 vote. Israel and Iran, arch-enemies, have long been locked in a shadow war. "Iran attacks Israel on a daily basis," Netanyahu told a cyber-security conference in January. Israel and the United States are widely suspected of deploying the Stuxnet malware, uncovered in 2010, and which sabotaged components of Irans nuclear program. A member of the Iranian reformist Supreme Council for Policymaking says Vice President Es'haq Jahangiri continues to serve in his post after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei rejected his resignation. Reports about Jahangiri's resignation made headlines in recent months, but Rouhani's administration has denied it. Ali Soufi, who was minister during the presidency of Mohammad Khatami (2001-2005), said, "Since Jahangiri is the head of the Economic Resistance Headquarters, he had to obtain the supreme leader's permission to resign as vice president. But the reformist insider does not say when the resignation was submitted. Khamenei presented the "general policies of economic resistance" at the beginning of President Hassan Rouhani's first term in 2013, and since then Jahangiri has served as head of the office responsible for implementing his guidelines. "In a letter to Khamenei, Jahangiri has insisted that the economic resistance policy is not progressing and that he cannot be useful," Soufi was quoted as saying by the Tasnim news agency, which is run by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC). According to Soufi, the main reason for Jahangiri's resignation was his disagreement with Rouhani's chief of staff, Mahmoud Vaezi. In October 2018, he complained about his lack of power within the administration, and to make a point Jahangiri said that he even lacked the authority to hire or fire his own secretary. The comment triggered a storm on Iran's political scene, raising the question of what forced Jahangiri to speak out. According to reformist daily Arman, Jahangiri is rarely consulted on crucial decisions. Many political activists, including Tehran reformist MP Elias Hazrati, had predicted the VP was only one step away from resignation. Since Rouhani's second term began in 2017, there have been speculations of a rift between Jahangiri and senior cabinet members, as well as Vaezi and the head of the Planning and Budget organization, Mohammad Baqer Nobakht. The track records of the three indicate that Nobakht has the upper hand in the rivalry, which has its roots deep in the history of Iran's two major centrist political parties, the Executives of Construction Party (which Jahangiri comes from) and the Moderation and Development Party, which is Vaezi and Nobakht's power base. While the muscle flexing in the cabinet continues, Soufi says it is "definitely in Jahangiris interest" to leave his job. "It is harmful to his credibility for him to remain in Rouhani's administration," Soufi said. "I wonder if Jahangiri's popularity would remain intact at the end of Rouhani's second term in 2021." Referring to unidentified "polls" and "assessments", Soufi maintained that the level of Rouhani's popularity is "shallow" and "below 10 percent." Jahangiri, 61, who ran against Rouhani in 2013 but left the race later in his favor, is believed to be the reformists' candidate for the 2021 presidential election. In recent months, following the devaluation of Iran's currency and deepening economic crisis, the reformists' criticism of Rouhani and his performance has gained momentum. Earlier this month, former president Khatami, widely considered the leader of reformists, also expressed his disappointment with Rouhani and his failure to implement reforms. In a meeting with members of the reformists' faction in parliament Khatami warned that in the absence of reforms it will be difficult to convince people to vote in the next election. "Today, I am challenged by people who say, You dragged us to the ballot boxes, but show us one single case of moving toward real reform. Has the judiciary been improved or can a healthy private sector compete in the economic field?" Khatami said. The former president's concerns reflect the impact of the late December 2017-early January 2018 protests that broke out in Iran's second largest city, Mashhad, and soon spread to 100 more towns. One of the main slogans of protesters was against Iran being dominated by the two establishment factions. "Reformists, Principlists! Your time is over!" chanted millions of demonstrators nationwide. 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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, March 16 Trend: "I think that example of Azerbaijan clearly demonstrates that multiculturalism is only way how the world can develop, and how to reduce tensions and strengthen cooperation and mutual understanding," Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said. He made the remarks March 14 at the opening ceremony of the 7th Global Baku Forum. Multiculturalism is a state policy of Azerbaijan and Azerbaijan is recognized in the world as one of the centers of multiculturalism, he said. This has a historical background, he noted. For ages Azerbaijan was a place where representatives of different religions and ethnic groups lived in peace and harmony, and we are proud that after restoration of our independence this tendency strengthened, and we try to promote these ideas on global arena. Therefore, we organized numerous events, international conferences like World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, World Religious Leaders Forum, Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, Baku Humanitarian Forum and many other international events concentrating on issues related to multiculturalism specially when we see different views on this issue. And I think that example of Azerbaijan clearly demonstrates that multiculturalism is only way how the world can develop, and how to reduce tensions and strengthen cooperation and mutual understanding. Azerbaijan is relatively young independent country, but we receive a very strong support from international community, as a reflection of that, indicator of that I would refer to the election of Azerbaijan as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council several years ago with the support of 155 countries, he said. So, this shows that Azerbaijan has a support and trust from the absolute majority of international community. And as a non-permanent member of Security Council we play very important role in addressing important issues related to security, and intercultural dialogue. We also play our role in global security we participate in peacekeeping operations, relatively recently we increased the number of our servicemen who served in Afghanistan, providing security there. Also we provide very important transportation and logistical support, for coalition forces. The Azerbaijani president added that the Northern distribution network, which Azerbaijan is a participant of, is very reliable route of supply. That was possible also due to the investments in modern infrastructure, especially in transportation, he said. Since the last global forum, we inaugurated big trade sea port, on the Caspian shore of Azerbaijan. This sea port is capable to transport large volumes of cargo from 15 at the first stage to 25 million tons, and is playing a very important role in bringing countries closer. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has sent a condolence letter to Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern over heavy casualties and injuries as a result of an armed attack at the mosques in the city of Christchurch. We were deeply saddened by the news of heavy casualties and injuries as a result of an armed attack at the mosques in the city of Christchurch, Ilham Aliyev said in his letter. We are extremely outraged by this ruthless terror act, and resolutely support the international community`s efforts against all forms and manifestations of terrorism. Over this horrible incident, on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan and on my own behalf, I extend my deepest condolences to you, the bereaved families and loved ones of those who were killed and the whole people of New Zealand, and wish the injured the swiftest possible recovery. Details added (First version posted on March 15 at 15:23) Baku, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has received Director General of the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO) Abdulaziz Othman Altwaijri. ISESCO Director General Abdulaziz Othman Altwaijri said he is happy to visit Azerbaijan and participate in the 7th Global Baku Forum. He noted that the event makes a valuable contribution to international cooperation. Abdulaziz Othman Altwaijri hailed Azerbaijans successful development and prosperity under the leadership and wise policy of President Ilham Aliyev, underlining the countrys constantly strengthening position not only in the region but also on the global scale. President Ilham Aliyev thanked Abdulaziz Othman Altwaijri for the warm words, and his participation in the 7th Global Baku Forum. The head of state described the 7th Global Baku Forum as an important event for holding fruitful discussions of global issues. Pointing to the cooperation with ISESCO, President Ilham Aliyev noted that the government and people of Azerbaijan commend the organization for supporting the countrys fair stance on the settlement of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The sides also exchanged views on prospects for cooperation between Azerbaijan and ISESCO. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 16 By Elchin Mehdiyev - Trend: The issues discussed at the 7th Global Baku Forum should be taken into account by international organizations, Samad Seyidov, the chairman of the Azerbaijani parliamentary committee on international and inter-parliamentary relations, told Trend on March 16. Seyidov underlined the great importance of the Global Baku Forum. "The forum is held under the motto "New foreign policy of the world". The foundation of this new policy is the work done by President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev," he added. He expressed confidence that the issues discussed and analyzed during the forum will be taken into account by organizations operating in the field of international relations. The 7th Global Baku Forum entitled "New Foreign Policy" opened in Baku, Azerbaijan on March 14. The forum organized by the Nizami Ganjavi International Center was scheduled to last till March 16. Over 500 representatives from 50 countries, including the incumbent heads of state and government of several countries, well-known political and public figures took part in this prestigious event. The issues of global and regional importance were discussed at 10 sessions within the forum. The role of big forces in changing global politics, the challenges of sustainable development, Middle Eastern cooperation in the name of security, the role of science and culture in making modern decisions and other important issues were discussed at the forum entitled New Foreign Policy. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 16 By Elchin Mehdiyev - Trend: Azerbaijan has built a very successful model of regional cooperation, head of the Department of Foreign Policy Affairs of the Azerbaijani Presidential Administration Hikmat Hajiyev told reporters, Trend reports. Hajiyev said that this model is based on effective cooperation. "It serves the interests of not only Azerbaijan, but also its partners, neighbors. Here we can note transport corridors, energy projects," he said. He noted that Armenia remains aloof from all these processes. "If the current leadership of Armenia wants to carry out economic reforms, then the country should withdraw its troops from the occupied territories of Azerbaijan, treat in a civilized manner with neighboring countries and implement a policy of good-neighborliness," Hajiyev said. He stressed that the status quo is unacceptable. Hajiyev added that the constructive position demonstrated by Azerbaijan in connection with the settlement of the conflict also receives a decent assessment. 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, March 16 Trend: Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has signed a pardon decree. Under the presidential decree, a total of 431 people were pardoned. Among them, 399 people were freed from the unserved part of their prison sentences. The punishment of one person sentenced to life imprisonment has been replaced by 25 years in prison and that of two people by 20 years in prison. In addition, one person is exempt from serving delayed sentence. Eleven people have been exempted from conditional sentence. One person was freed from public works, 12 people were exempted from punishment in the form of a fine. Among the pardoned are 14 foreign citizens, including three Georgian citizens, two from Russia and Nigeria each, and one from Turkey, Iran, Uzbekistan, China, Cameroon, India and Belarus each. Among those pardoned are former chairman of the Baku Telephone Communications Public Association Beytulla Huseynov, members of the "Nida" movement Giyas Ibrahimov, Bayram Mammadov, Ilkin Rustamzade, former deputy head of the Yasamal branch of JSC Texnikabank Elnur Seyidov, deputies of the chairman of the Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan Gozal Bayramli and Fuad Gahramanli, ex-Minister of Health Ali Insanov. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: Azerbaijans former health minister Ali Insanov has been pardoned upon presidential decree. Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree to pardon a number of convicts and upon this decree, Ali Insanov has been freed from the unserved part of his sentence. Ali Insanov was arrested in October 2005. He was accused of embezzling state funds and organizing illegal privatization of state assets. In April 2007 he was sentenced to 11 years imprisonment with confiscation of property. Insanov's term was to expire in October last year. In 2017, Insanov was charged under Article 234.1 (Illegal purchase, storage, manufacturing, processing, transportation without a purpose of selling of narcotics or psychotropic substances in a quantity (amount) exceeding necessary for personal consumption), Article 315.2 (Resistance to the authorities in the performance of their duties, with the use of violence not dangerous to life and health, the use of such violence or threat of violence against him and his relatives in connection with the performance of official duties, application of the violence dangerous to life or health, concerning persons specified in the article) and Article 317- 2.1 (The preparation, keeping, concealment, carrying, transportation or use of prohibited items by a person held in penalty institutions or investigation isolators, the same acts if they are committed repeatedly) and was sentenced to 7 years and 5 days imprisonment by the Garadagh District Court. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: The delegation led by Chairman of the Investigative Committee of Belarus Ivan Noskevich, which is on a visit to Azerbaijan, visited the Heydar Aliyev Center on March 15, Trend reports referring to the press service of the Prosecutor Generals Office. The Belarusian delegation was informed about the Center. Acquaintance with the Center made a great impression on the delegation members. Then the delegation got acquainted with the work of the fifth Baku-based ASAN Service Center. The delegation headed by Chairman Ivan Noskevich, with the aim of further strengthening the working relations with the General Prosecutors Office of Azerbaijan, is on a visit to Azerbaijan. The delegation of the Investigative Committee of Belarus visited the Alley of Honor, where they honored the memory of Heydar Aliyev, the founder of the modern Azerbaijani state, laying a wreath at his grave. The delegation members also laid flowers at the grave of the outstanding ophthalmologist, academician Zarifa Aliyeva. Having visited the Alley of Martyrs, the members of the delegation laid flowers at the graves of Azerbaijanis who fell in the struggle for the independence and territorial integrity of their fatherland, and laid a wreath at the Eternal Flame memorial. Then a meeting was held at the Prosecutor Generals Office of Azerbaijan. The Belarusian delegation also visited the Anti-Corruption General Directorate at the Prosecutor General's Office and the Department for Investigation of Grave Crimes of the Prosecutor General's Office. The delegation also got acquainted with the cultural and historical monuments of Baku. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 16 By Fakhri Vakilov - Trend: Kazakhstan presented the space project to the heads of official governmental delegations of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan in the framework of the first Central Asian Economic Forum at Uzexpocenter exhibition, Trend reports via Uzbek media. Collaboration in the space sphere may be one of the new areas of five-sided cooperation. Kazakh developers stated that the regional project envisages the creation of a group of five Earth remote sensing satellites. The project provides that each country will own a satellite, which will give an opportunity to receive high-quality remote sensing information. This will increase the efficiency of surveying the surface of the earth and allow each country to introduce its own monitoring in the development of economic sectors, such as agriculture or others, Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Zhenis Kasymbek said at the presentation. Kazakhstan proposes within the project to send working groups to all countries to analyze and study these proposals. Experts noted that the technology of remote sensing of the Earth from space is an indispensable tool for studying and continuous monitoring of our planet, helping to effectively use and manage its resources. --- Follow author on Twitter:@vakilovfaxri Baku, Azerbaijan, Mar. 16 By Elnur Baghishov Trend: Iran and Azerbaijan are both trying to turn their bilateral ties into excellent relations, Farhad Dejpasand, Iranian Minister of Economic Affairs and Finance, told Trend. Currently, the Iranian-Azerbaijani relations are very good, according to him. "But we are trying to turn these good relations into excellent relations," he said. The Iranian minister added that the presidents of both countries have a serious will to develop bilateral relations. Noting that the co-chairs of the joint committee of both countries have made efforts in this direction, Dejpasand expressed hope for the further development of the relations with the signing of the protocol. The 13th meeting of the Azerbaijan-Iran State Committee for Economic, Trade and Humanitarian Affairs was held on March 15, 2019. At the end of the meeting, a protocol was signed on the outcomes of the 13th meeting of the state committee. The document was signed by the co-chairs of the Commission Azerbaijani Minister of Economy Shahin Mustafayev and Iranian Economic Affairs and Finance Minister Farhad Dejpasand. Baku, Azerbaijan, Mar. 16 By Jeyhun Alakbarov Trend: Last year, Azerbaijans Agroleasing OJSC purchased 44 units of various agricultural equipment from Iran, Shahin Mustafayev, Minister of Economic Development of Azerbaijan, said during the 13th meeting of the Azerbaijan-Iran State Committee for Economic, Trade and Humanitarian Affairs, Trend reports. The minister said that there are ample opportunities for cooperation in the field of agriculture between the two countries. "To further deepen our cooperation in this area, we propose to apply Iranian technologies in the production of dried fruits and vegetables, establish cooperation between relevant structures in the field of agricultural research and trade, and sign an agreement on cooperation on food safety," Mustafayev said. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 16 By Fakhri Vakilov - Trend: North Kazakhstan plant for deep processing of grain LLP BioOperations last year produced products worth 4 billion tenge, Trend reports via Kazakh media. Former plant "Biohim" in Tayinshinsky area stood on the conservation of more than 8 years. At one of the meetings, governor of the North Kazakhstan region, Kumar Aksakalov, said that the regional budget lost 1 billion tenge due to an idle enterprise. Recently, "Biohim" changed its name to BioOperations LLP, and began the restoration of production. Last year, they invested more than 7 billion tenge, created 400 jobs, launched a shop for the production of starch and gluten. The plant capacity reaches 300,000 tons of grain per year. The plant uses local raw materials. The head of the region has repeatedly stressed that deep processing of grain is a promising direction. The capacity of plant allows us to process 7 percent of the wheat produced. With deep processing of 1 ton of wheat, we get 343 kilograms of starch at a price of 120 tenge per kilogram, 85 kilograms of gluten - 645 tenge per kg, 354 kg of feed 36,000 each. As a result, the cost of finished products from one ton of wheat is 108,000 tenge. This is twice as much, compared to raw materials which 56,000 tenge per ton, Aksakalov noted. Now the plant gets gluten and starch. North Kazakhstan gluten is registered in the register of suppliers of gluten and is exported to Europe and the USA. The general director of the company, Almas Kalimurzin stated that other markets are being studied, which can be accessed with gluten. Starch is being exported to Uzbekistan and Russia. The next step is to launch a bioethanol production plant - a high-octane ecological fuel bio-additive based on deep processing of grain. Work has already begun. Production capacity will be 36,000 tons per year. In 2021, the plant is planning to launch the production of lysine. This is a modern supplement in feed to improve the growth of farm animals. --- Follow author on Twitter:@vakilovfaxri Baku, Azerbaijan, March 16 By Jeyhun Alakbarov - Trend: A bridge located on one of the main highways running from Azerbaijan to Iran has opened in Azerbaijans Salyan district, Trend reports. The opening ceremony of the bridge on the River Kur took place on March 16. The bridge that was built and commissioned 25 years ago was closed for repair since June 1, 2018. It was reconstructed under the control of the State Motor Road Agency of Azerbaijan and resumed its operation. The opening ceremony was attended by chairman of the management board of the State Motor Road Agency Saleh Mammadov, representatives of Salyan District Executive Power and MPs. The bridge is located on one of the main highways running to Iran. Its length is 316 meters and the width is 12 meters with pedestrian crossings and has 6 spans. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: Citizens in Guba, Gazakh, Barda and Terter have contributed time and money to build six feed-grinding and seed-cleaning facilities that will provide services to nearby farmers. These facilities were built through the Socio-Economic Development Activity (SEDA), funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The three new facilities in Guba and three in Gazakh, Terter and Barda will allow local farmers to make their own affordable animal feed for their cows and poultry and clean disease-free seeds for planting crops. They no longer would need to travel long distances to the nearest city to grind their clover, corn, and barley crops into feed and purchase seeds. These facilities will benefit nearby communities - home to 27,000 people - whose livelihoods depend on agriculture. These projects are part of collaboration between USAID, the Azerbaijani government, and local communities to support citizen-led efforts to improve rural livelihoods. USAIDs SEDA is implemented by the East-West Management Institute with support from the Ministry of Economy. Since 2011, SEDA communities have implemented 134 projects that include activities supporting local economies, medical facilities, roads in rural areas, water and irrigation systems, and local school renovations -- benefiting nearly 220,000 people in 107 communities. Tehran, Iran, March 16 Trend: Fuel transit by tankers through Parviz Khan Border crossing between Iran and Iraq has been prohibited. The governor of Qasr-e Shirin, Morad-Ali Tatar has announced the ban will be in force from March 16 till March 25. The purpose is to reduce the road traffic for Iran Nowruz holiday travels, Trend reports citing IRNA. "The fuel tankers are not allowed to operate on the the country's roads during this time. The fuel transit via Parviz Khan will resume in March 25, he added. The official noted that tankers are also banned to import fuel through Kermanshah borders into the country from March 28 till April 7. "Transport of trucks carrying food items and building material to this region during this time are allowed. An average of 500 tankers import fuel from Iraq's Kurdistan region to Iran's Parviz Khan Border per day and return to Iraq after being discharged at Iran's southern ports," he added. The exports of goods via Parviz Khan and Khosravi borders in Qasr-e-Shirin would continue through the Iranian new year holiday (March 21-April 2) while the pilgrimage and travels to Iraq will continue as usual, he said. An average of 800 trucks transit through Parviz Khan Border, while 500 trucks transport Iran's export goods to Iraq via Khosravi border. Parviz Khan Border is one of the biggest centers to transit Iran's non-oil exports to Iraq, the crossing point shares 54 percent of the country's annual non-oil exports to Iraq. Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Mar. 16 By Huseyn Hasanov Trend: Kyrgyzstan will have to step up work on the construction of the Turkmenistan-Kyrgyzstan-China gas pipeline, Trend reports referring to the statement by Kyrgyz President Sooronbai Jeenbekov, published by the Kyrgyz presidential administrations press service. "It is of great importance to use all the capabilities of Turkmenistan in the fields of fuel and energy, as well as the field of investment," as stated by the president. It was reported earlier that the construction of the 4th branch "D" of the Turkmenistan-China gas pipeline via Kyrgyzstan is scheduled to commence by late 2019. The State Committee for Industry, Energy and Subsoil Use of Kyrgyzstan reported that, with an estimated cost of $1.2 billion over this segment of the pipeline, the project will have a 3-year implementation period. Overall, the new branch "D" is intended for the Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan-Tajikistan-Kyrgyzstan-China route. At present, three branches of the pipeline on the route Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan-Kazakhstan-China (branches "A", "B", "C") have been built and functioning. They are to supply 40 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year altogether. The agreement on the construction of the fourth branch "D" of the "Turkmenistan-China" gas pipeline was signed during the talks between the Turkmen President Gurbagly Berdimuhamedov and General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Xi Jinping in September 2013. The additional branch's rate of flow is expected to be 25 billion cubic meters of gas, which will allow Turkmenistan to bring the volume of its natural gas exports to China to 65 billion cubic meters annually. It was earlier reported that, as of December 2018, more than 250 billion cubic meters of Turkmen gas had been exported to China since December 2009. The deposits of Bagtyyarlyk and Galkynysh in Turkmenistan are used as sources for raw materials. Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Mar. 16 By Huseyn Hasanov Trend: The state visit of the King of Bahrain Hamad ibn Isa Al Khalifa to Turkmenistan is scheduled for March 17-19, Trend reports referring to the Turkmen government. The matter was discussed during a meeting of the Turkmen government. President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov noted the importance of the upcoming top-level talks for enhancing the Turkmen-Bahraini cooperation. The talks are to be concluded with the signing of a solid package of documents for strengthening the regulatory framework of interstate relations, giving them a qualitatively new impetus, according to the Turkmen Dovlet Habarlary state agency. Relevant work is being carried out to implement bilateral projects in the fields of investment, banking, oil and gas sector, and the chemical industry, as well as to broaden trade and economic ties and stimulate cultural and humanitarian contacts. Diplomatic relations between the two countries were established in December 1995. The president of Turkmenistan paid an official visit to Bahrain in February 2011, during which a number of documents were signed that laid the foundations for cooperation. Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Mar. 16 By Huseyn Hasanov Trend: Work is underway to organize the pavilion of Turkmenistan at World Expo 2020 in Dubai, UAE, Trend reports referring to the local Altyn Asyr TV channel. An international tender was held by the Turkmen Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations, following which a project proposal made by Tekmil, a local private enterprise, was selected. The area of the national pavilion will cover 1,581 square meters. Conditions will be created for holding business forums and meetings. The exhibition in Dubai will be held under the slogan "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future". An estimated 25 million people will visit the World Expo during the six months which the event will be held for. The official platform for the World Expo 2020 exhibition pavilion will be the new Dubai Trade Center with an area of 438 hectares, projected specifically for the exhibition. Baku, Azerbaijan, Mar. 16 By Matanat Nasibova Trend: By 2030, all regional states of the Western Balkans will become members of the EU, ex-president of Bulgaria Petar Stoyanov said during panel discussions on the topic of "Western Balkan countries - 2030" at the 7th Global Baku Forum, Trend reports. According to him, the membership of the countries of the Western Balkans in the EU will have a significant positive impact on solving the problems of migrants. He noted that EU membership is the choice of citizens of the Western Balkan countries. In turn, Croatian ex-prime minister Jadranka Kosor noted that the most important condition for countries to join the EU is mutual trust. She noted that Croatia has become a full member of the EU, which was largely facilitated by long negotiations with it. "As a result, repeated discussions held with EU members back in the day gave positive results," the former prime minister added. The 7th Global Baku Forum entitled "New Foreign Policy" opened in Baku, Azerbaijan on March 14. The forum organized by the Nizami Ganjavi International Center will last till March 16. Over 500 representatives from 50 countries, including the incumbent heads of state and government of several countries, well-known political and public figures are taking part in this prestigious event. The issues of global and regional importance will be discussed at 10 sessions to be held within the forum. The role of big forces in changing global politics, the challenges of sustainable development, Middle Eastern cooperation in the name of security, the role of science and culture in making modern decisions and other important issues are being discussed at the current forum entitled New Foreign Policy. The Czech Republic will buy 12 military helicopters from a U.S. company, narrowing the field of possible suppliers, Deputy Defense Minister Jakub Landovsky told a paper on Saturday, Trend reports referring to Reuters. The Defense Ministry scrapped a tender for helicopters in 2017 and planned to launch another in summer 2018, meant to include bidders from Germany and Italy too. The contract, estimated at 12.5 billion crowns ($553 million), will now go to Bell Helicopter, a unit of Textron, or Lockheed Martins Sikorski, the Pravo daily paper said. It is true that we did not have any large project with the United States for a long time, Landovsky said in an interview published by Pravo. The helicopters are now on the table. And it is possible to say that we are in exclusive talks with the United States now about a purchase of new helicopters, he said. As Israels Beresheet spacecraft ventures through space on its historic mission to the moon, it is motivating the countrys next generation of scientists to discover new ways to conquer the world and beyond, Trend reports referring to The Jerusalem Post. Some were among the 54 Israelis who recently took part in the 22nd Young Scientists and Developers Competition at the Bloomfield Science Museum in Jerusalem, an annual event that presents projects in a wide array of fields, including physics, history, chemistry and health sciences. The contest, sponsored by the Goren-Monti-Ferrari Family, is part of the European Unions Horizon 2020 research and development program, which aims to boost collaboration between young Israeli and European scientists. Among the prizes up for grabs were several academic scholarships as well as opportunities to present research at prestigious international events, such as the Intel-ISEF competition in the US, a science camp in Germany, the International Swiss Talent Forum and the EUs Contest for Young Scientists in Bulgaria. This years event came close on the heels of Israels space mission, Beresheet, which was launched toward the moon last month from Cape Canaveral in Florida. In fact, Yonatan Weintraub, one of the co-founders of SpaceIL, which manufactured the lunar vehicle, won the contest in his youth. Speaking of excellence and perseverance, if I recall correctly, he competed several times and only won on his third try, Hamutal Lotan, coordinator of the competition, told The Media Line. I think Beresheets journey is exciting for everyone, especially for those involved in the sciences and technology, she continued. The drive to go as far as possible and to challenge ourselves reminds me of what students are doing today. It seems Weintraubs siblings are following in his footsteps. A younger brother carried the family torch by participating in this years competition. Tommy Weintraub, 17, won a special prize worth $850 as well as an entry to Intel-ISEF for his project exploring the ways artificial intelligence can help create music. The goal of my project is to create musical chords that correspond to a given song using an algorithm, he explained to The Media Line. I think Beresheet has led people to think, Wow, here is something someone an Israeli created. It shows children that they, too, can reach these heights. Whereas Yonatan Weintraub is currently abroad in the United States overseeing the Israeli space venture, their sister, Naama, a medical researcher, came to lend moral support. Naama told The Media Line that their parents had long encouraged them to be curious about the world and to ask questions. Yonatan and I used to play in the yard as children, she recounted. From a young age, he was very curious to know about the aerodynamics of things in motion. He would try to calculate the trajectory of objects we used to throw, and figure out where they would land. In my view, this is how SpaceIL started. Israels foray into outer space had clearly excited other young scientists at the competition. One of the founders of SpaceIL participated in this competition himself, Shelly Cohen, an 18-year-old finalist who created a device using a near-infrared scanner to locate blood veins, told The Media Line. To see that someone once in my position is now launching a spacecraft really inspires me. Aviad Gwali and Daniel Markovich, two of the first-place winners who will receive academic scholarships, concurred with that sentiment. The duo developed hybrid electrochemical components that help combine batteries and capacitors, thereby shortening the time needed to charge them. In my opinion, all the research and development in the space industry really motivated us and other young scientists, Gwali told The Media Line. It also gave us ideas. Just as other nations have done, Israel can also make it to the moon, so nobody can tell us the sky is the limit, Markovich stated. A joint venture between SpaceIL and the state-owned Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the $100 million lunar probe was funded almost entirely through private donations from Jewish philanthropists. If Beresheet completes its mission as planned and successfully lands on the moon on April 11, Israel will become only the fourth country in the world to do this, after the United States, Russia and China. When the U.S. started sending missions to the moon, more and more students began to study the field, Lotan related. It helped to develop research in everything related to flying in space. Im sure the same will happen here in Israel. The primary suspect in the mass shooting at a mosque in New Zealands Christchurch was remanded without plea until his next appearance in the High Court on April 5, Trend reports citing Reuters. The suspect was identified as 28-year-old Brenton Harrison Tarrant. Tarrant appeared before a New Zealand district court judge, charged with murder. His hands were handcuffed and he was wearing white prison attire. About 90 people suffocated from the leak of chlorine gas in Iraq's eastern city of Kut, capital of Wasit Province, the Iraqi Ministry of Health said Friday, Trend reports citing Xinhua. The leakage took place "at a water treatment facility in Kut, some 180 km southeast of the Iraqi capital Baghdad," said Sayf al-Badr, the ministry spokesman, in a statement. Most of the suffocation cases are not serious, he added. The Health Department of Wasit has taken all necessary precautions to address the situation, al-Badr noted. The statement did not say if the gas leak resulted from a sabotage or an accident. In previous cases, the Islamic State (IS) militants used chlorine gas in their terrorist attacks against civilians and Iraqi forces. The security situation in Iraq has been dramatically improved after Iraqi security forces fully defeated the extremist IS militants across the country late in 2017. IS remnants, however, have since melted in urban areas or resorted to deserts and rugged areas as safe havens, carrying out guerilla attacks from time to time against security forces and civilians. Unknown gunmen on Saturday attacked a village of Kaduna state, northwest Nigeria, killing 9 persons, Trend reports citing Xinhua. Samuel Aruwan, spokesperson for the state governor, confirmed the attack, adding that nine were killed in the attack on Nandu-Gbok village in Sanga area. The attack is coming on the heels of several attack on the people of Kajuru area of the state. On Tuesday, unidentified gunmen shot dead 17 members of a local vigilante group following an attack on Jan Ruwa village. The attack on Nandu-Gbok was launched by yet to be identified gunmen at about 4:00 a.m local time on Saturday, according to local security personnel. The armed men invaded the village at the ungodly hours of Saturday, shooting sporadically at anyone on sight. A federal lawmaker, Shehu Garba while condemning the attacks, called for urgent attention from relevant authority to protect the people. "About 30 houses were confirmed burnt down," he added. Kaduna is one of the states in northern Nigeria that saw a high number of attacks, with women and children being the most affected. Jordanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Saturday that the number of Jordanians killed in mass shootings at two mosques in New Zealand rose to four after two of the injured succumbed to their wounds, Trend reported referring to Xinhua. The other five injured people are still receiving treatment and the ministry dispatched a diplomat to follow up their conditions, the ministry said in a statement, a copy of which was obtained by Xinhua. At least 49 were killed and 48 others were wounded on Friday in the attacks in New Zealand's city of Christchurch, New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush said. Jordan's Minister of State for Media Affairs Jumana Ghunaimat on Friday condemned the attack, urging unified and coordinated efforts to combat terrorism, the state-run Petra news agency reported. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 16 By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend: Three Turkish citizens were injured during the terrorist attack at the mosques of Al-Noor and Lynwood in New Zealand, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said, Trend reports via Turkish media. Erdogan said that he personally had a telephone conversation with one of the wounded Turkish citizens. At least 49 people have been killed, and 20 seriously injured, after gunmen opened fire at two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch on March 15. Four suspects were detained. An Australian citizen of ultra-right views - Brenton Tarrant, a native of Australia's Grafton fired at one of the mosques. He streamed the attack online, and before the attack, published a 37-page manifesto, in which he called his actions a terrorist attack. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu Baku, Azerbaijan, March 16 By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend: Turkey is ready to help New Zealand in the fight against terror, Turkish Vice-President Fuat Oktay said before his visit to New Zealand, together with Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, Trend reports via Turkish media. Turkey expresses solidarity with the New Zealand government in the fight against terror, Oktay said. According to latest reports, 49 people have been killed, and 20 seriously injured, after gunmen opened fire at two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch on March 15. Four suspects were detained. An Australian citizen of ultra-right views - Brenton Tarrant, a native of Australia's Grafton fired at one of the mosques. He streamed the attack online, and before the attack, published a 37-page manifesto, in which he called his actions a terrorist attack. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu Baku, Azerbaijan, Mar. 16 By Rufiz Hafizoglu Trend: Hagia Sophia will not function as a mosque, said Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, commenting on the terrorist attacks in mosques in New Zealand, Trend reports referring to the Turkish media. According to Erdogan, some forces want to provoke Turkey in light of the statements by a terrorist in New Zealand about Hagia Sophia. Erdogan stressed that the Turkish authorities are well aware of what and when to do. The head of state added that the terrorist who had attacked Muslims in mosques in New Zealand had twice been to Turkey, and the purposes of his visits and who he met with are currently being specified. Turkish Vice President Fuat Oktay and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mevlut Cavusoglu flew to New Zealand on March 16, 2019. According to latest reports, 49 people have been killed, and 20 seriously injured, after gunmen opened fire at two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch on March 15. Four suspects were detained. An Australian citizen of ultra-right views Brenton Tarrant, a native of Australia's Grafton fired at one of the mosques. He streamed the attack online, and before the attack, published a 37-page manifesto, in which he called his actions a terrorist attack. Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu Username: Password: or Register Back to Forum Reply to This post Post New Thread Thread Rating: 2 Vote(s) - 5 Average 1 2 3 4 5 Page: 1 2 Does a new genetic analysis finally reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper? LopDude Warning level 1200% User ID: 439014 03-16-2019 08:57 AM Posts: 20,076 Post: #1 Does a new genetic analysis finally reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper? Advertisement The results come from a forensic examination of a stained silk shawl that investigators said was found next to the mutilated body of Catherine Eddowes, the killers fourth victim, in 1888. The shawl is speckled with what is claimed to be blood and semen, the latter believed to be from the killer. Four other women in London were also murdered in a 3-month spree and the culprit has never been confirmed. This isnt the first time Kosminski has been linked to the crimes. But it is the first time the supporting DNA evidence has been published in a peer-reviewed journal. The first genetic tests on shawl samples were conducted several years ago by Jari Louhelainen, a biochemist at Liverpool John Moores University in the United Kingdom, but he said he wanted to wait for the fuss to die down before he submitted the results. Author Russell Edwards, who bought the shawl in 2007 and gave it to Louhelainen, used the unpublished results of the tests to identify Kosminski as the murderer in a 2014 book called Naming Jack the Ripper. But geneticists complained at the time that it was impossible to assess the claims because few technical details about the analysis of genetic samples from the shawl were available. https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2019/03/...ack-ripper Let us honor the Lop fallen-never forget them Let us honor the Lop fallen-never forget them Forensic scientists say they have finally fingered the identity of Jack the Ripper, the notorious serial killer who terrorized the streets of London more than a century ago. Genetic tests published this week point to Aaron Kosminski, a 23-year-old Polish barber and a prime police suspect at the time. But critics say the evidence isnt strong enough to declare this case closed.The results come from a forensic examination of a stained silk shawl that investigators said was found next to the mutilated body of Catherine Eddowes, the killers fourth victim, in 1888. The shawl is speckled with what is claimed to be blood and semen, the latter believed to be from the killer. Four other women in London were also murdered in a 3-month spree and the culprit has never been confirmed.This isnt the first time Kosminski has been linked to the crimes. But it is the first time the supporting DNA evidence has been published in a peer-reviewed journal. The first genetic tests on shawl samples were conducted several years ago by Jari Louhelainen, a biochemist at Liverpool John Moores University in the United Kingdom, but he said he wanted to wait for the fuss to die down before he submitted the results.Author Russell Edwards, who bought the shawl in 2007 and gave it to Louhelainen, used the unpublished results of the tests to identify Kosminski as the murderer in a 2014 book called Naming Jack the Ripper. But geneticists complained at the time that it was impossible to assess the claims because few technical details about the analysis of genetic samples from the shawl were available. Uppity Me Registered User User ID: 493170 03-16-2019 01:17 PM Posts: 38,929 Post: #2 RE: Does a new genetic analysis finally reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper? here's a very interesting episode on Jack the Ripper. The real Jack didn't call himself that, they think it was someone else who penned the name. Many wrote to the police and took credit and one of them said he was Jack the Ripper. https://www.history.com/shows/mysteryque.../episode-8 My money is on the American charlatan who said he was a doctor but wasn't. Hey Dude,here's a very interesting episode on Jack the Ripper.The real Jack didn't call himself that, they think it was someone else who penned the name. Many wrote to the police and took credit and one of them said he was Jack the Ripper.My money is on the American charlatan who said he was a doctor but wasn't. Quote: Les pauvres n'ont-ils des Euros ? Alors laissez les pauvres 'sh*t' dans les rues Bao2 Banned User ID: 422170 03-16-2019 03:36 PM Posts: 12,562 Post: #3 RE: Does a new genetic analysis finally reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper? It's already known that it was the doctors at the time in their search for reviving dead people by some organ failure, replacing the organs. All paid by the rich in their search for what today is organ transplants. The cuts were done with surgical precision, because it was doctors doing it. Then some misleading in the histories to make people believe it was others, not doctors. Logros Registered User User ID: 461439 03-16-2019 04:33 PM Posts: 1,434 Post: #4 RE: Does a new genetic analysis finally reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper? Bao2 Wrote: (03-16-2019 03:36 PM) It's already known that it was the doctors at the time in their search for reviving dead people by some organ failure, replacing the organs. All paid by the rich in their search for what today is organ transplants. The cuts were done with surgical precision, because it was doctors doing it. Then some misleading in the histories to make people believe it was others, not doctors. Why target young pretty females? Seems like a waste to anyone logical. Wouldn't you target ugly people so one would be missed? Ever wonder why so many homeless people disappear? Hmm... Why target young pretty females? Seems like a waste to anyone logical. Wouldn't you target ugly people so one would be missed? Ever wonder why so many homeless people disappear? Hmm... LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 493344 03-16-2019 05:26 PM Post: #5 RE: Does a new genetic analysis finally reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper? It was a confirmed scouser LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 470206 03-16-2019 06:03 PM Post: #6 RE: Does a new genetic analysis finally reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper? Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, fed up with the conditions of prostitutes, and with access to bodies from the morgue to set up the crime scenes. Making their suicides not in vain. The Black Dahalia was far less effective. Man Ray needed new batteries. Al Goldshine Registered User User ID: 322815 03-16-2019 06:30 PM Posts: 139 Post: #7 RE: Does a new genetic analysis finally reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper? So, LopDude, you must have insight because this thread reminds me of the recent hospital visit where my blood was drawn multiple times for testing, and often the nurses poked fingers as they experimented with various sound waves, and more than I know, many things were done to press the olive, again for more oil? I do pray that they got what they were wishing for. The new genetics are the oldest, and that which was died, buried, and again raised up in the Spring of the new generation. May you be blessed even, more? Lopinator Registered User User ID: 493338 03-16-2019 06:52 PM Posts: 7,633 Post: #8 RE: Does a new genetic analysis finally reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper? The only way of preventing speculation of who the real identity of Jack the Ripper real was, is to of been there, and this applies to every person who is speculating. Evidence can be interpreted in many different ways, let see if it stands up to the test of time. blind prophet Teiresias User ID: 458642 03-16-2019 07:06 PM Posts: 28,454 Post: #9 RE: Does a new genetic analysis finally reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper? Could you imagine hopping onto the barbers chair and getting a close shave from the Ripper? PuddyCat I Want Tuna User ID: 348173 03-16-2019 08:15 PM Posts: 23,552 Post: #10 RE: Does a new genetic analysis finally reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper? Jack the Ripper (TV Series 1988) Michael Caine The film was produced to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the Whitechapel murders, and was originally screened on British television in two 90-minute episodes, broadcast on consecutive evenings, in October 1988, to coincide with the dates of some of the original events, advertising itself in advance as a solution to the century old mystery of the murderer's identity using newly discovered original evidence. The broadcasts were a cause celebre in British television production in the late 1980s, and gained high audience viewing figures with critical recognition as an example of innovative populist television dramatic production London, autumn 1888. Chief Inspector Frederick Abberline of Scotland Yard is assigned by his superiors to investigate the murder and brutal mutilation of a prostitute in the East End of London. As the mutilated corpses of other "shilling princesses" turn up in the same area, London's tabloid journalists - particularly Benjamin Bates of The Star - whip up a public frenzy. The killer is nicknamed "Jack the Ripper" after a letter bearing that name and supposedly from the killer, is forwarded to Scotland Yard. As the Ripper terrorizes London, public outrage erupts throughout the country, and Police Commissioner Sir Charles Warren fears that a revolution is in the air in London's East End. There is no shortage of suspects for Abberline and his partner, Sergeant George Godley. These suspects include the American actor Richard Mansfield (appearing in the play Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde in London); police surgeon Dr Henry Llewellyn; socialist agitator George Lusk; Queen Victoria's clairvoyant Robert Lees; the Queen's grandson Prince Albert Victor; and Dr Theodore Dyke Acland, the son-in-law of Sir William Gull, Royal Surgeon to Queen Victoria and expert on diseases of the brain. The police and the authorities want the murders solved at any cost, but Abberline and Godley face huge obstacles as they search for the truth - and hindrance from their superiors when the killer is finally unmasked. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPYxcJLSiFg http://lunaticoutpost.com/thread-1139-page-226.html The film was produced to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the Whitechapel murders, and was originally screened on British television in two 90-minute episodes, broadcast on consecutive evenings, in October 1988, to coincide with the dates of some of the original events, advertising itself in advance as a solution to the century old mystery of the murderer's identity using newly discovered original evidence. The broadcasts were a cause celebre in British television production in the late 1980s, and gained high audience viewing figures with critical recognition as an example of innovative populist television dramatic productionLondon, autumn 1888. Chief Inspector Frederick Abberline of Scotland Yard is assigned by his superiors to investigate the murder and brutal mutilation of a prostitute in the East End of London. As the mutilated corpses of other "shilling princesses" turn up in the same area, London's tabloid journalists - particularly Benjamin Bates of The Star - whip up a public frenzy. The killer is nicknamed "Jack the Ripper" after a letter bearing that name and supposedly from the killer, is forwarded to Scotland Yard. As the Ripper terrorizes London, public outrage erupts throughout the country, and Police Commissioner Sir Charles Warren fears that a revolution is in the air in London's East End.There is no shortage of suspects for Abberline and his partner, Sergeant George Godley. These suspects include the American actor Richard Mansfield (appearing in the play Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde in London); police surgeon Dr Henry Llewellyn; socialist agitator George Lusk; Queen Victoria's clairvoyant Robert Lees; the Queen's grandson Prince Albert Victor; and Dr Theodore Dyke Acland, the son-in-law of Sir William Gull, Royal Surgeon to Queen Victoria and expert on diseases of the brain. The police and the authorities want the murders solved at any cost, but Abberline and Godley face huge obstacles as they search for the truth - and hindrance from their superiors when the killer is finally unmasked. Politics only interests me because it transforms people into dribbling nincompoops (The World Is Mad) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izsjRpcgfmk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8oFzHx29PDo Flic Vange Registered User User ID: 400136 03-16-2019 08:49 PM Posts: 1,778 Post: #11 RE: Does a new genetic analysis finally reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper? LoP Guest Wrote: (03-16-2019 05:26 PM) It was a confirmed scouser James Maybrick?? I have his supposed diary. He had the pocketwatch with initials of the victims sctratched into it supposedly. A few months after the Ripper murders, his wife Florence murdered him(did she find something out?) James Maybrick?? I have his supposed diary. He had the pocketwatch with initials of the victims sctratched into it supposedly. A few months after the Ripper murders, his wife Florence murdered him(did she find something out?) Voltaire: I detest your views but I would give my life to protect your rights to express them. LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 493464 03-16-2019 10:37 PM Post: #12 RE: Does a new genetic analysis finally reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper? it was Prince Charles's great great gay uncle LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 488763 03-16-2019 11:04 PM Post: #13 RE: Does a new genetic analysis finally reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper? I think I'll stick with the Freemasonry angle cheers. LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 493415 03-16-2019 11:14 PM Post: #14 RE: Does a new genetic analysis finally reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper? LopDude Wrote: (03-16-2019 08:57 AM) Forensic scientists say they have finally fingered the identity of Jack the Ripper, the notorious serial killer who terrorized the streets of London more than a century ago. Genetic tests published this week point to Aaron Kosminski, a 23-year-old Polish barber and a prime police suspect at the time. But critics say the evidence isnt strong enough to declare this case closed. This isnt the first time Kosminski has been linked to the crimes. But it is the first time the supporting DNA evidence has been published in a peer-reviewed journal. The first genetic tests on shawl samples were conducted several years ago by Jari Louhelainen, a biochemist at Liverpool John Moores University in the United Kingdom, but he said he wanted to wait for the fuss to die down before he submitted the results. ... https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2019/03/...ack-ripper 9-3-2006 Scotland Yard Releases Jack The Ripper Chief Inspector Donald Swanson, who headed the murder investigation has released his notes to Scotland Yard, and there are some unpleasant surprises. For 100 years people were told that Scotland Yard wasn't sure who the slasher was. In July of 2006 the truth was revealed, Aaron Kosminski was the Ripper. Chief Swanson identified Aaron Kosminski, a Polish-Jewish hairdresser living in Whitechapel, East London, as Jack the Ripper. Swanson believes he killed others. Kosminski's Killing Ground The districts of Whitechapel, Spitalfields, Aldgate, and the City of London proper. How He Killed Kosminski first strangled them, then cut their throats, after which the cadaver was cut at the abdominal region, organs were removed, and sometimes he preformed genital mutilation. He ate some of the women's organs. ... Kosminski was removed from society in 1890, and placed in the Mile End asylum. And then to Colney Hatch and Leaversden where under the care of his Jewish doctors, they see to it that Kosminski is drugged to the point he was brain dead. He died in 1919. It's probably just as well that Kosminski's name wasn't made public at the time it was known he was the killer. No Jew would have been safe in England. Website gone. 9-3-2006Scotland Yard Releases Jack The RipperChief Inspector Donald Swanson, who headed the murder investigation has released his notes to Scotland Yard, and there are some unpleasant surprises. For 100 years people were told that Scotland Yard wasn't sure who the slasher was. In July of 2006 the truth was revealed, Aaron Kosminski was the Ripper.Chief Swanson identified Aaron Kosminski, a Polish-Jewish hairdresser living in Whitechapel, East London, as Jack the Ripper. Swanson believes he killed others.Kosminski's Killing GroundThe districts of Whitechapel, Spitalfields, Aldgate, and the City of London proper.How He KilledKosminski first strangled them, then cut their throats, after which the cadaver was cut at the abdominal region, organs were removed, and sometimes he preformed genital mutilation.He ate some of the women's organs. ...Kosminski was removed from society in 1890, and placed in the Mile End asylum. And then to Colney Hatch and Leaversden where under the care of his Jewish doctors, they see to it that Kosminski is drugged to the point he was brain dead. He died in 1919.It's probably just as well that Kosminski's name wasn't made public at the time it was known he was the killer. No Jew would have been safe in England.Website gone. seasnake Registered User User ID: 67904 03-16-2019 11:46 PM Posts: 19,324 Post: #15 RE: Does a new genetic analysis finally reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper? What are the odd of finding traces of semen on the body of a dead prostitute? Sounds more like evidence that the barber got some prostitute action than did something like kill the whore. Advertisement Back to Forum Reply to This post Post New Thread The man landed in Mumbai from Tanzania on December 4 and his samples were sent for genome sequencing when he tested positive for coronavirus. Islamabad: After day of Air strike conducted by IAF, Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar claimed that "no damage" was done by the air strikes carried out by the IAF across the LOC and refuted reports about his ill health saying that he was fully well and his kidney and liver were perfectly fine. At least 100 people are missing in Zimbabwe after tropical cyclone Idai hit JeM Chiefs column has been published under his known pen name "Saadi" and published in the latest weekly edition of terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's mouthpiece "Al-Qalam". In his column, Azhar claimed that all of his supporters were well and no harm was done to the JeM as claimed by India. Azhar said that Kashmiri like Adil Ahmad Dar, the suicide bomber who carried out the attack, are going a great work in the valley. "The fire started by Dar will no be extinguished soon," said Azhar. In the Pulwama attack, at least CRPF personnel had lost their lives. However, taking a potshot at PM Modi, Azhar said that he was ready to have competition of archery and shooting to prove his good health. AR Rehmans Student wins The Worlds Best American reality show Earlier this month, a Pakistani minister in the Imran Khan government had claimed that Azhar was "very critical" and was undergoing treatment at an Army hospital in the country. Minister's comments fueled fire about Azhar having died in the air strikes carried out by the IAF in Balakot. However, later the Jaish had issued a statement saying that the terror commander was alive and doing well. JeM took the responsibility of the Pulwma teero attack on feb 14 in which more than 40 CRPF Jawans were Martyred. New Delhi: In ahead of, after China blocked bid to designate Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar India expressed confidence that the terror chief will be listed saying that Beijing knows terrorism is a challenge and that it operates from Pakistan. The official sources told India said that Pakistan is spending diplomatic capital in defending indefensible and termed its action cosmetic. The US is supportive of India and has assured that Pakistan will take action. China blocked Indias bid for the fourth time by putting technical hold on the Azhars listing. also read Priyanka Gandhis UP Tour Programme is not cancelled but some modifications have done: Congress While India is disappointed with China for blocking the bid it is still working with members of the sanction committee. Here Source saying this as There is no bigger statement, half of UNSC co-sponsors proposal. Hold is not a block. We are optimistic,. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj slammed the Congress over its allegation that China blocking the bid to name Azhar as a "global terrorist" was a diplomatic failure of the Narendra Modi government and said that the proposal was moved four times before but India got worldwide support only in 2019. In a series of tweets, Swaraj wrote that in 2009, when UPA was in power India was the lone proposer. However, in 2016, New Delhis proposal received was co-sponsored by USA, France and UK. also read Investigation team got a suspicions letter in YS Vivekananda murder case It is to be noted that after China blocked Indias bid to list Azhar Congress president Rahul Gandhi called Prime Minister Narendra Modi "weak" and "scared" of Chinese President Xi Jinping and had tweeted: Weak Modi is scared of Xi. Not a word comes out of his mouth when China acts against India. NaMo's China Diplomacy: 1. Swing with Xi in Gujarat 2. Hug Xi in Delhi 3. Bow to Xi in China. India observes National Vaccination Day sometime called as National Immunization Day (NID) on 16th March every year. National Immunization Day was first observed on 16th March 1995 when first dose of Oral Polio Vaccine was given. The observance of National Vaccination Day is an attempt to enhance awareness for the eradication of polio from planet earth. Every year on this day, millions of children are immunized with the polio vaccine.Every year, India observes National Immunisation Day in January to mark the launch of pulse polio programme. India has been implementing the Pulse Polio Programme since 1995. In India, the last case of wild polio was reported on 13 January 2011. Vaccination is the most effective method of preventing infectious diseases; widespread immunity due to vaccination is largely responsible for the worldwide eradication of smallpox and the restriction of diseases such as polio, measles, and tetanus from much of the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that licensed vaccines are currently available to prevent or contribute to the prevention and control of twenty-five preventable infections. also read Vivek Oberoi's Narendra Modi to release on this date On 27 March 2014, India was certified as polio free country along with other 11 countries of South-East Asia Region of World Health Organisation (WHO). These countries were Bangladesh, Bhutan, Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea, Indonesia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Timor-Leste. Vaccination is the most effective method of preventing infectious diseases; widespread immunity due to vaccination is largely responsible for the worldwide eradication of smallpox and the restriction of diseases such as polio, measles, and tetanus from much of the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that licensed vaccines are currently available to prevent or contribute to the prevention and control of twenty-five preventable infections. India has one of the largest Universal Immunization Programs (UIP) in the world in terms of the quantities of vaccines used, number of beneficiaries covered, geographical spread and human resources involved. Despite being operational for over 30 years, UIP has been able to fully immunize only 65% children in the first year of their life and the increase in coverage has stagnated. To achieve full immunization coverage for all children, the Government of India launched Mission Indradhanush in December 2014. The ultimate goal of this program is to ensure full immunization with all available vaccines for children up to two years and pregnant women. Under this programme, all vaccines are available free of cost. also read Two ladies sentenced to prison for selling newborn Dehradun: Congress president Rahul Gandhi Kick-started the campaign for the ensuing 2019 Lok by attacking PM Modi over demonetisation saying that the process wiped out the entire informal sector of the country. Congress President said that BJP wants to create two India one of the rich another of the poor and the Congress will not let that happen. Reiterating the party promise of minimum income to every citizen, Rahul attacked the Modi government asserting that the BJP has done nothing for the farmers and the youth. At least 100 people are missing in Zimbabwe after tropical cyclone Idai hit During the rally, Gandhi welcomed senior BJP leader Bhuwan Chandra Khanduri's son Manish Khanduri into the party saying that he would give strength to the party in the state. Taking a potshot over BC Khanduri's removal as the chairman fo the parliamentary standing committee on defence, Rahul said that BJP removed him for asking questions. Hyderabad man went missing after New Zealand mosque shooting Gandhi also praised the the Congress government in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan, Congress scion said that his party governments waived of farm loans within days of winning elections whereas Modi who had promised two crore jobs to youth, Rs 15 lakh in every account didn't do anything. Former Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah wants Rahul Gandhi to contest Polls from Karnataka Rahul Gandhi also met the family of Major Chitresh Singh Bisht who lost his life on February 16 while defusing an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir. LUCKNOW: On Saturday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that newly-appointed Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's entry into politics will make "no difference" to the BJP's poll prospects in the state. Dismissing the newly-stitched SP-BSP alliance, the firebrand saffron leader said that it posed no threat to his party and its allies. The UP CM said "The Congress has made her (Priyanka) its general secretary (in-charge of eastern UP) this time. It is an internal matter of that party. Earlier too she had campaigned for the Congress. This time also it will make no difference (to the BJP),". Yogi Adityanath also claimed that the "fledgling" SP-BSP alliance is already "embroiled in dispute". also read At least 100 people are missing in Zimbabwe after tropical cyclone Idai hit He said in his first interview after the Lok Sabha poll schedule was announced Sunday "The new-found alliance is already embroiled in a dispute. It (alliance) is nothing but a 'hauaa' (false alarm),". The comments from UP Chief Minister came in the wake of reports that Priyanka is set to launch her party's Lok Sabha election 2019 from Prayagraj on March 18. Here it is to be notd that Priyanka Gandhi will kick-off Congress' Lok Sabha campaign from the political hotbed of eastern Uttar Pradesh - Prayagraj and Varanasi. The Congress party had also reportedly planned a boat ride for Priyanka from Allahabad to Varanasi as a unique initiative to establish a direct contact with people. Priyanka, 47, who was recently appointed Congress general secretary in-charge of eastern UP, is expected to cover a distance of about 110 to 112 km touching Prayagraj, Bhadohi, Mirzapur and Varanasi. also read Hyderabad man went missing after New Zealand mosque shooting However, She is expected to arrive in Prayagraj on March 18 and later visit the historic Anand Bhawan, the erstwhile official residence of the Nehru family, now dedicated as a museum housing the personal belongings of Jawaharlal Nehru and his father Motilal Nehru. Washington: The US and two other permanent Security Council members, France and Britain, are believed to be in intense "good faith" discussions with China to arrive at a "compromise" on the UN designation of Jaish chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. And if that effort does not end up in the formal designation of Azhar, the three permanent members are planning to soon move a resolution for his listing in the most powerful wing of the UN which would be preceded by an open debate on the issue, according to people familiar with the matter. On Wednesday, China blocked for the fourth consecutive time a resolution at a UN Security Council Committee on designating Azhar, head of the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad group, as a global terrorist. The proposal was moved by the US, France and the UK. India had expressed disappointment over the Chinese stance and the original co-sponsors of the resolution had warned they will consider "other actions" to achieve their goal. It is to be noted that while the internal consultations of the Security Council committee remain private, this time several Council members, frustrated at China's unreasonable stance to protect a terrorist, privately spoke to the media the negative role being played by Beijing. A Security Council diplomat said on Wednesday in an unusual tough warning to Beijing "If China continues to block this designation, responsible member-states may be forced to pursue other actions at the Security Council. It shouldn't have to come to that,". also read BJP crack a counterpart jibe on Congress's 'Chowkidar Chor hai' jiberead inside However, in the last 50 hours, it is believed that the original sponsors of the Azhar resolution are having intense "good faith" consultations with China on what many familiar with the matter describe as a "compromise". This probably means Azhar would be designated as a global terrorist by the UN body, but the language of designation would include a language acceptable to China. China is believed to have suggested "certain changes" in the language of the terrorist designation. The US, Britain and France are believed to be currently looking at the suggestions. It is understood that there is back-and-forth exchange of texts on the matter. To be noted that the three countries have indicated that they are willing to accommodate Chinese request for changes in the language as long as it does not change the substance of the resolution and it ends up designating Azhar as a UN global terrorist. But unlike in the past, the US, France, Britain and other members of the Security Council are not willing to wait for long to conclude their discussion with China. It is learnt that China has been informed by these countries that they are seriously looking for other options, in particular an open debate followed by a vote on a resolution to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, pretty soon. also read Again Rahul Gandhi badly Grab on his own fault by BJP on 'Gabbar Singh Tax' Username: Password: or Register Back to Forum Reply to This post Post New Thread Thread Rating: 3 Vote(s) - 5 Average 1 2 3 4 5 Page: 1 2 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale ALADIN * weird wizard1* User ID: 493119 03-16-2019 11:48 AM Posts: 5,423 Post: #1 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale Advertisement OPEC is ready to produce at full capacity if the NOPEC (No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels Act) bill is passed in Washington, an action that would likely kill the cash intensive US shale industry. The oil minister of the UAE, Suhail al-Mazrouei, reportedly told lenders at the meeting that if the bill was made into law that made OPEC members liable to US anti-cartel legislation, the group, which is to all intents and purposes indeed a cartel, would break up and every member would boost production to its maximum. This would be a repeat of what happened in 2013 and 2014, and ultimately led to another oil price crash like the one that saw Brent crude and WTI sink below US$30 a barrel. As a result, a lot of US shale-focused, debt-dependent producers would go under. https://www.rt.com/business/453977-opec-...s-kill-us/ It also forced all people, great and small, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a ma s k on their nose and mouth ... 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shaleOPEC is ready to produce at full capacity if the NOPEC (No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels Act) bill is passed in Washington, an action that would likely kill the cash intensive US shale industry.The oil minister of the UAE, Suhail al-Mazrouei, reportedly told lenders at the meeting that if the bill was made into law that made OPEC members liable to US anti-cartel legislation, the group, which is to all intents and purposes indeed a cartel, would break up and every member would boost production to its maximum.This would be a repeat of what happened in 2013 and 2014, and ultimately led to another oil price crash like the one that saw Brent crude and WTI sink below US$30 a barrel. As a result, a lot of US shale-focused, debt-dependent producers would go under. LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 493209 03-16-2019 01:24 PM Post: #2 RE: 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale 44575 Wrote: (03-16-2019 11:48 AM) 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale OPEC is ready to produce at full capacity if the NOPEC (No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels Act) bill is passed in Washington, an action that would likely kill the cash intensive US shale industry. The oil minister of the UAE, Suhail al-Mazrouei, reportedly told lenders at the meeting that if the bill was made into law that made OPEC members liable to US anti-cartel legislation, the group, which is to all intents and purposes indeed a cartel, would break up and every member would boost production to its maximum. This would be a repeat of what happened in 2013 and 2014, and ultimately led to another oil price crash like the one that saw Brent crude and WTI sink below US$30 a barrel. As a result, a lot of US shale-focused, debt-dependent producers would go under. https://www.rt.com/business/453977-opec-...s-kill-us/ Can you imagine the boom to the economy that .60 a gallon gas would bring ! DO IT !! Can you imagine the boom to the economy that .60 a gallon gas would bring !DO IT !! Xeno Heresy Registered User User ID: 434473 03-16-2019 02:46 PM Posts: 10,153 Post: #3 RE: 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale I thought we were at peak oil? The middle east is supposed to be running out, and DOOM is upon us all? Wait $30 a barrel? Sounds good to me. Drill, baby! Drill! Xeno Heresy Registered User User ID: 434473 03-16-2019 03:00 PM Posts: 10,153 Post: #4 RE: 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale I'm a little disappointed because I bought some stock in Exxon Oil & Gas because they own a bunch of shale fields in the USA. If middle east oil continued to rise in price I could have seen some profit. I just checked and I've lost about $400. That's what I get for buying Exxon, I guess. I put in a limit order to sell at a small profit, good til cancelled. Maybe it will climb back up, but probably not. LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 493118 03-16-2019 03:27 PM Post: #5 RE: 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale Russia and Saudi Arabia just about keep afloat at $60 bbl ( SA needs $84 ). They can't afford to go to $30. Last time that happened it wrecked the Russian economy. LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 450018 03-16-2019 04:35 PM Post: #6 RE: 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale Save the whales ... oh shales .. ooops. Shame on them threatening our shales.. Good, it wastes a billion gallons of water and f'ck super the environment exponentially .. How bout we suck the life out of every human and pump them full of water to replace the life force we blasted out of it.. and pollute a natural water source while we are at it and trigger earthquake and landslides plus feed the drug alcohol and prostitution industry .. LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 429525 03-16-2019 04:36 PM Post: #7 RE: 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale 44575 Wrote: (03-16-2019 11:48 AM) 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale OPEC is ready to produce at full capacity if the NOPEC (No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels Act) bill is passed in Washington, an action that would likely kill the cash intensive US shale industry. The oil minister of the UAE, Suhail al-Mazrouei, reportedly told lenders at the meeting that if the bill was made into law that made OPEC members liable to US anti-cartel legislation, the group, which is to all intents and purposes indeed a cartel, would break up and every member would boost production to its maximum. This would be a repeat of what happened in 2013 and 2014, and ultimately led to another oil price crash like the one that saw Brent crude and WTI sink below US$30 a barrel. As a result, a lot of US shale-focused, debt-dependent producers would go under. https://www.rt.com/business/453977-opec-...s-kill-us/ Treat it like any other import and put a tariff on it. Unfair competition kills American jobs Treat it like any other import and put a tariff on it.Unfair competition kills American jobs LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 450018 03-16-2019 04:39 PM Post: #8 RE: 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale Don't matter within 12 years AOC utopian world of no planes train trucks motorcycles or autos will be in force wont need gaaaas. Will all be livin the amish and muslim life by then horses camels and donkey's oh maybe the somalians will bring in some water buffalo to . Alian2 Registered User User ID: 441655 03-16-2019 05:41 PM Posts: 13,250 Post: #9 RE: 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale OPEC is not threatening to kill shale. The US is threatening to kill OPEC. OPEC is saying that if it happens there will no longer be production limits. All nations would begin producing at full blast. The result would be a supply glut and low prices. Shale cannot be profitable if prices go much lower. The result of the US killing OPEC would be that the US also kills shale production for now. LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 493390 03-16-2019 05:45 PM Post: #10 RE: 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale Michael-AK Wrote: (03-16-2019 05:41 PM) OPEC is not threatening to kill shale. The US is threatening to kill OPEC. OPEC is saying that if it happens there will no longer be production limits. All nations would begin producing at full blast. The result would be a supply glut and low prices. Shale cannot be profitable if prices go much lower. The result of the US killing OPEC would be that the US also kills shale production for now. and given where the world is heading black gold only has a certain lifespan... a race to the bottom would happen at some point... the dependency is who has enough diversity to weather such a storm.. and given where the world is heading black gold only has a certain lifespan... a race to the bottom would happen at some point... the dependency is who has enough diversity to weather such a storm.. LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 484281 03-16-2019 05:48 PM Post: #11 RE: 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale this is brilliant moth ball our capacity and make the middle east drill themselves dry SkeptiSchism Registered User User ID: 450243 03-16-2019 05:52 PM Posts: 36,605 Post: #12 RE: 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale The Obamanation Wrote: (03-16-2019 02:46 PM) I thought we were at peak oil? The middle east is supposed to be running out, and DOOM is upon us all? Wait $30 a barrel? Sounds good to me. Drill, baby! Drill! Some people say we are at peak oil right now. But peak oil doesn't mean we run out of oil, it just means that the oil remaining is more difficult to extract from the earth and costs more energy to extract and refine. The whole world's economy evolved around cheap abundant crude oil, so it's sort of accustomed to abundant cheap oil with lots of excess energy to impart to the economy. But when that changes, then the system can't adjust/compensate for the changes. Oil then requires more energy input to get energy output and the economy starts relying on debt, then that debt can't be serviced or rolled over and eventually it will all crash. US oil producers haven't made a profit since 2009 off shale oil, they are rolling around $200 billion in junk bonds they used to subsidize production. Some people say we are at peak oil right now. But peak oil doesn't mean we run out of oil, it just means that the oil remaining is more difficult to extract from the earth and costs more energy to extract and refine.The whole world's economy evolved around cheap abundant crude oil, so it's sort of accustomed to abundant cheap oil with lots of excess energy to impart to the economy. But when that changes, then the system can't adjust/compensate for the changes.Oil then requires more energy input to get energy output and the economy starts relying on debt, then that debt can't be serviced or rolled over and eventually it will all crash.US oil producers haven't made a profit since 2009 off shale oil, they are rolling around $200 billion in junk bonds they used to subsidize production. Evil is the root of all fiat 'money' Alian2 Registered User User ID: 441655 03-16-2019 05:57 PM Posts: 13,250 Post: #13 RE: 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale LoP Guest Wrote: (03-16-2019 05:45 PM) Michael-AK Wrote: (03-16-2019 05:41 PM) OPEC is not threatening to kill shale. The US is threatening to kill OPEC. OPEC is saying that if it happens there will no longer be production limits. All nations would begin producing at full blast. The result would be a supply glut and low prices. Shale cannot be profitable if prices go much lower. The result of the US killing OPEC would be that the US also kills shale production for now. and given where the world is heading black gold only has a certain lifespan... a race to the bottom would happen at some point... the dependency is who has enough diversity to weather such a storm.. If OPEC breaks up their supplies will be consumed now, at a lower price. And shale will come back on the market when prices rise, OPEC supplies dwindle, and the tech has matured more. In shale production they heat the ground to extract the oil. But they must keep it from migrating, so they build freeze walls. They literally freeze the ground and heat the ground at the same time. The process from rock to market consumes the energy equivalent of one barrel of oil for every three extracted. It cannot operate at a profit if OPEC production limits end. If OPEC breaks up their supplies will be consumed now, at a lower price. And shale will come back on the market when prices rise, OPEC supplies dwindle, and the tech has matured more.In shale production they heat the ground to extract the oil. But they must keep it from migrating, so they build freeze walls. They literally freeze the ground and heat the ground at the same time. The process from rock to market consumes the energy equivalent of one barrel of oil for every three extracted. It cannot operate at a profit if OPEC production limits end. Alian2 Registered User User ID: 441655 03-16-2019 05:59 PM Posts: 13,250 Post: #14 RE: 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale CONGRESS THREATENS TO KILL US SHALE LoP Guest lop guest User ID: 493390 03-16-2019 06:21 PM Post: #15 RE: 'Severe unintended consequences': OPEC threatens to kill US shale Michael-AK Wrote: (03-16-2019 05:57 PM) LoP Guest Wrote: (03-16-2019 05:45 PM) and given where the world is heading black gold only has a certain lifespan... a race to the bottom would happen at some point... the dependency is who has enough diversity to weather such a storm.. If OPEC breaks up their supplies will be consumed now, at a lower price. And shale will come back on the market when prices rise, OPEC supplies dwindle, and the tech has matured more. In shale production they heat the ground to extract the oil. But they must keep it from migrating, so they build freeze walls. They literally freeze the ground and heat the ground at the same time. The process from rock to market consumes the energy equivalent of one barrel of oil for every three extracted. It cannot operate at a profit if OPEC production limits end. Talking of maturity the other technologies are also maturing, there is still a heap of coal in the ground, and we moved to black gold, and we will move on from black gold and like coal huge volumes of it will still be in the ground... nothing to do with a changing climate and everything to do with who controls the pulse of the world... French with silver, the British with gold, the Americans with black gold, and what's next? as there is always a next.... A conflict between these 2 blocks will just create a race to the bottom in the short term and a glut, in the mid term push up prices once the field has been leveled and long term something new... not sure, but it certainly feels like such a change will be bumpy in short and medium terms.. Talking of maturity the other technologies are also maturing, there is still a heap of coal in the ground, and we moved to black gold, and we will move on from black gold and like coal huge volumes of it will still be in the ground...nothing to do with a changing climate and everything to do with who controls the pulse of the world... French with silver, the British with gold, the Americans with black gold, and what's next? as there is always a next....A conflict between these 2 blocks will just create a race to the bottom in the short term and a glut, in the mid term push up prices once the field has been leveled and long term something new... not sure, but it certainly feels like such a change will be bumpy in short and medium terms.. Advertisement Back to Forum Reply to This post Post New Thread This year, ten researchers - three women and seven men - will receive the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Prize, the most important award for early career researchers in Germany. The recipients were chosen by a selection committee in Bonn appointed by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) and the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). The prizewinners will each be presented with the 20,000 prize on 28 May in Berlin. The 2019 Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Prizes are being awarded to: Stefan Cihan Aykut, Sociology, Universitat Hamburg Karl Bringmann, Theoretical Computer Science, Max Planck Institute for Informatics, Saarbrucken Fabian Dielmann, Inorganic Molecular Chemistry, University of Munster Jonathan F. Donges, Statistical Physics and Climate Science, Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) Knut Drescher, Microbiology and Biophysics, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg Stefanie Ganger, Modern and Contemporary History, University of Cologne Nicolas Perkowski, Probability Theory, Max Planck Institute for Mathematics in the Sciences, Leipzig, and Humboldt University of Berlin Uta Reinohl, General Linguistics, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz Thimoteus Speer, Nephrology, Saarland University Nina Henriette Uhlenhaut, Experimental Endocrinology, Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen - German Research Center for Environmental Health The Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Prize has been awarded annually since 1977 to outstanding researchers at an early stage of their academic careers who do not yet have a permanent professorship. The prize serves as both recognition and an incentive to continue pursuing a path of academic excellence. Since 1980 it has been named after the atomic physicist and former DFG President Heinz Maier-Leibnitz, during whose period in office (1973-1979) it was first awarded. The Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Prize is regarded as the most important award for the promotion of early career researchers in Germany. A total of 129 researchers from all fields of research were nominated for this year's prize. The winners were selected by the responsible committee chaired by DFG Vice President and mathematician Prof. Dr. Marlis Hochbruck. The recipients: Stefan Cihan Aykut (38), Sociology, Universitat Hamburg Stefan Cihan Aykut's research focuses on the sociological study of climate discourse and climate policy. He is particularly interested in the comparison of Germany and France. Aykut has studied and researched in both countries, publishing in German, English and French. He has placed national discourses and policies in their European and global context, which gave rise to his dissertation "How to Govern a Global Risk? The Construction of Climate Change as a Public Problem at the Global and European Levels, in France and Germany" (in French in the original). In his research, Aykut innovatively brings together research approaches and methods from political science, sociology, and science and technology studies. He combines empirical observation with hermeneutics and discourse analysis, with historical depth of focus. Aykut's analyses also have impact in a political and social context. Karl Bringmann (32), Theoretical Computer Science, Max Planck Institute for Informatics, Saarbrucken Karl Bringmann has written two master's dissertations, in computer science and mathematics, and published nine conference papers while he was still a student. As a doctoral and postdoctoral researcher, he presented his work on algorithms and complexity theory at many leading international congresses on theoretical computer science, where he was also invited on several occasions to serve on the programme committee. Bringmann has made extremely important contributions to his two fields of research, also addressing questions in many areas which are distantly related to one another. One of his most significant findings is the calculation of new fundamental 'lower limits' for important problems such as the Frechet distance of curves. Fabian Dielmann (38), Inorganic Molecular Chemistry, University of Munster Having held posts in Regensburg and California, Fabian Dielmann has led a DFG-funded Emmy Noether independent junior research group at the University of Munster since 2013. There, he investigates questions relating to molecular chemistry and catalysis, in particular the development of methods to activate very inert small molecules such as carbon dioxide and sulphur hexafluoride (SF6). These molecules are of fundamental economic and social importance, being the starting materials for various industrial processes but also pollutants, particularly carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. As well as closing the gap between academic research and application, Dielmann has moved beyond standard paradigms and thought models in his discipline, for example in the activation of SF6 with nucleophilic phosphanes he himself developed. His research has been published in internationally relevant journals and is respected worldwide. Jonathan F. Donges (35), Statistical Physics and Climate Science, Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) By introducing innovative methods from statistical physics into climate and Earth system research, Jonathan F. Donges has significantly advanced this field. He has also carried out pioneering work in the analysis of recurring events, establishing it as an analytical method for climate data before big data methods became common practice. More recently, he has used additional network-based approaches and methods drawn from complexity theory for the purposes of climate research. An article which he co-authored, "Trajectories of the Earth System in the Anthropocene", is expected to influence debate in climate science for several years to come. In this paper, the authors identify in the transitions between more stable and more variable climate conditions a trigger for human development in Africa, providing evidence of a reciprocal relationship between climate development and human development. Donges studied and earned his doctorate in Bonn, San Diego, Potsdam and Berlin. Since 2013, among other roles he has served as one of two leaders of a flagship project (COPAN) at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research. Knut Drescher (35), Microbiology and Biophysics, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg Knut Drescher, who works at the intersection of physics, biochemistry, materials science and biotechnology, has made important contributions to the study of cellular processes during the formation of bacterial biofilms. His findings are being used to develop measures to intervene in the growth and proliferation of these multicellular collectives. This brings closer the goal of reducing the mortality risk from infections triggered by certain pathogens. Drescher's work also provides important insights that improve our understanding of how self-organised patterns of interaction that differ from individual behaviours arise within cellular collectives. In 2014, after spending periods working at the universities in Oxford, Cambridge and Princeton, Drescher was appointed head of a Max Planck research group and since 2015 he has also been Professor of Biophysics at Philipps-Universitat Marburg. In 2016, he was awarded an ERC Starting Grant and was selected to lead a project within a DFG-funded Collaborative Research Centre. Stefanie Ganger (36), Modern and Contemporary History, University of Cologne Since 2013, Stefanie Ganger has been Junior Professor of Iberian and Latin American History at the University of Cologne. Prior to this she studied and researched in Augsburg, Seville, Cambridge and Berlin, as well as in Konstanz as part of the Leibniz Prize research team "Global Processes" led by Jurgen Osterhammel. Ganger, whose main interests lie in the history of science and medicine from the 18th to the early 20th century, has broken new ground with her consistent integration of Latin America into global historical frameworks. Her first monograph dealt with the collection and generation of knowledge of and about Pre-Hispanic objects and the development of archaeology in Peru and Chile. Her second book discusses the history of the worldwide use of, and global trade in, medicinal plants from South America. Here too, Ganger - who is internationally well networked with researchers in the history of science and global history - adopts a genuinely global historical approach. Her use of sources from many parts of the world in different languages is remarkable in its own right. Nicolas Perkowski (34), Probability Theory, Max Planck Institute for Mathematics in the Sciences, Leipzig, and Humboldt University of Berlin Perkowski has been Junior Professor of Stochastic Analysis at the Humboldt University of Berlin since 2015, and since 2018 he has also been based at the Max Planck Institute for Mathematics in the Sciences in Leipzig, funded through the DFG's Heisenberg Programme. His research focuses on singular stochastic partial differential equations (SPDEs), questions relating to applied stochastic analysis, and robust methods in financial mathematics. Together with co-authors, he developed a highly regarded alternative approach to the solution of singular SPDEs, such as the Kardar-Parisi-Zhang equation, and was able for the first time to prove that the energy solutions to these are unique. Since 2016 Perkowski has been a project leader in a DFG Research Unit as well as participating in a DFG-funded International Research Training Group. Uta Reinohl (32), General Linguistics, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz Uta Reinohl's field of research is historical linguistics, and specifically the development of individual languages. She also carries out research into grammaticalization, an area that demands familiarity with many different languages and current theories as well as a capacity for generalisation. Reinohl therefore brings together two academic traditions that have largely existed in parallel. Her main focus is on questions of syntax, or the structure of sentences. In her dissertation she shed new light on one of the most important developments in sentence structure in the Indo-Germanic languages, namely the emergence of hierarchical structures in the nominal phrase. Her linking of data from very different areas is unusual: for instance, she has opened up new insights through a detailed comparison of Vedic Sanskrit and various Australian languages. Since 2019 Reinohl has been the leader of a DFG-funded Emmy Noether independent junior research group at the University of Mainz. Since 2017 she has been a project leader in a Collaborative Research Centre at the University of Cologne and co-applicant in a DFG project to develop a research environment for Vedic and Sanskrit texts. Thimoteus Speer (37), Nephrology, Saarland University Lipid metabolism disorders are one of the key risk factors for arteriosclerotic changes to the arteries, which can cause strokes and heart attacks. However, not all blood lipids are harmful. Thimoteus Speer has demonstrated that only certain modified lipids have a damaging effect on arteries in people with kidney disease. Crucially, he linked these findings with newly discovered processes of chronic inflammation and was able to explain certain mechanistic details of this fatal interaction. He therefore made an important link between these two common damage processes. Speer's findings have made it possible to establish diagnostic precision medicine and, in the medium term, the development of new treatment strategies. The importance of his work is therefore due to its strong translational research approach. Working from the basis of a joint doctorate in human medicine and biology, he has conducted outstanding basic and translational research. This is reflected in his roles as senior physician, laboratory director for experimental and translational nephrology, and project leader in a DFG-funded Collaborative Research Centre. Nina Henriette Uhlenhaut (41), Experimental Endocrinology, Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen - German Research Center for Environmental Health The field of endocrinology is concerned with disorders of hormone-producing glands, such as the thyroid gland, and disorders caused by an excess, deficit or other imbalances of hormones. Nina Henriette Uhlenhaut investigates the signal transmission of glucocorticoid hormones at a molecular level and its physiological effects on the immune system and metabolism. Uhlenhaut's work has significantly contributed to proving that these hormones can mediate both stimulating and inhibiting effects, and to explaining this mechanism. Since 2018 she has been Professor of Metabolic Biochemistry and Genetics at the Gene Center at LMU Munich and the leader of a junior research group at Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen. Since 2017 she has been a project leader in a DFG-funded Transregio and a Collaborative Research Centre. In 2014 she was awarded an ERC Starting Grant and between 2013 and 2018 she led a DFG-funded Emmy Noether independent junior research group. ### Further Information The presentation of the 2019 Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Prizes will take place on 28 May at 4pm, in the Lecture Hall Ruin of the former Rudolf Virchow Lecture Hall, Berlin Museum of Medical History at the Charite, Chariteplatz 1, 10117 Berlin. Representatives from the media are cordially invited to attend the award ceremony. Please register in advance with the DFG Press and Public Relations Office, Tel. +49 228 885-2109, presse@dfg.de. More information about the prize and previous winners is available at: http://www.dfg.de/en/funded_projects/prizewinners/maier_leibnitz_prize DFG Head Office contact: Annette Lessenich, Scientific Prizes Team, Tel. +49 228 885-2835, annette.lessenich@dfg.de Alaska Air Group, Inc. (NYSE:ALK), which is in the airlines business, and is based in United States, saw significant share price movement during recent months on the NYSE, rising to highs of $69.61 and falling to the lows of $54.09. Some share price movements can give investors a better opportunity to enter into the stock, and potentially buy at a lower price. A question to answer is whether Alaska Air Groups current trading price of $55.76 reflective of the actual value of the mid-cap? Or is it currently undervalued, providing us with the opportunity to buy? Lets take a look at Alaska Air Groups outlook and value based on the most recent financial data to see if there are any catalysts for a price change. View our latest analysis for Alaska Air Group What is Alaska Air Group worth? Good news, investors! Alaska Air Group is still a bargain right now. According to my valuation, the intrinsic value for the stock is $109.68, which is above what the market is valuing the company at the moment. This indicates a potential opportunity to buy low. Another thing to keep in mind is that Alaska Air Groups share price may be quite stable relative to the rest of the market, as indicated by its low beta. This means that if you believe the current share price should move towards its intrinsic value over time, a low beta could suggest it is not likely to reach that level anytime soon, and once its there, it may be hard to fall back down into an attractive buying range again. Can we expect growth from Alaska Air Group? NYSE:ALK Past and Future Earnings, March 16th 2019 Future outlook is an important aspect when youre looking at buying a stock, especially if you are an investor looking for growth in your portfolio. Although value investors would argue that its the intrinsic value relative to the price that matter the most, a more compelling investment thesis would be high growth potential at a cheap price. Alaska Air Groups earnings over the next few years are expected to double, indicating a very optimistic future ahead. This should lead to stronger cash flows, feeding into a higher share value. Story continues What this means for you: Are you a shareholder? Since ALK is currently undervalued, it may be a great time to increase your holdings in the stock. With an optimistic outlook on the horizon, it seems like this growth has not yet been fully factored into the share price. However, there are also other factors such as financial health to consider, which could explain the current undervaluation. Are you a potential investor? If youve been keeping an eye on ALK for a while, now might be the time to make a leap. Its prosperous future outlook isnt fully reflected in the current share price yet, which means its not too late to buy ALK. But before you make any investment decisions, consider other factors such as the strength of its balance sheet, in order to make a well-informed investment decision. Price is just the tip of the iceberg. Dig deeper into what truly matters the fundamentals before you make a decision on Alaska Air Group. You can find everything you need to know about Alaska Air Group in the latest infographic research report. If you are no longer interested in Alaska Air Group, you can use our free platform to see my list of over 50 other stocks with a high growth potential. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. American Airlines pilots' union told their members not to fly to Venezuela, a move that could further isolate the South American country. The notice came on the heels of a State Department warning about unrest in the country. American Airlines AAL pilots' union told its members not fly to Venezuela after the State Department warned about crime and unrest there and pulled its diplomatic staff from the country, threatening to further isolate the South American nation that is mired in a humanitarian crisis. Most U.S. airlines halted service to Venezuela amid political and economic turmoil there. American is the last major U.S. airline to fly to Venezuela and sells flights from Miami to Caracas and to Maracaibo. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro cut ties with the U.S. in January after Washington recognized opposition leader Juan Guaido as the country's president. More than 50 other countries have recognized Guaido as the country's president. The U.S. State Department on Tuesday said it suspended operations of the U.S. Embassy in Caracas. The warning instructed U.S. citizens in Venezuela to leave the country. It has previously told U.S. citizens not to travel there. "Do not travel to Venezuela due to crime, civil unrest, poor health infrastructure, and arbitrary arrest and detention of U.S. citizens," the State Department said in its warning. "Until further notice, if you are scheduled, assigned, or reassigned a pairing into Venezuela, refuse the assignment" and call chief pilots, the Allied Pilots Association, which represents about 15,000 American Airlines pilots, said in a note to its members late Thursday. American Airlines did not immediately respond to request for comment. The airline's two flights from Miami to Caracas were canceled on Friday, the airline's website showed, but flights scheduled for Saturday appeared as scheduled. The Association of Professional Flight Attendants that represents American's 25,000 flight attendants said it supported the pilot union's decision "100%." Story continues "Of course without the pilots, the flight's not operating," said Lori Bassani, APFA's president. United Airlines UAL and Delta Air Lines DAL ceased service to Venezuela in 2017. More From CNBC TOKYO, March 15 (Reuters) - Blackstone Group said on Friday it had agreed to buy Japanese drug maker Ayumi Pharmaceutical Corp, a deal one person said was worth around $1 billion. The deal marks the first one in Japan by the U.S. private equity (PE) firm after it set up a local team in 2017 to broaden its focus beyond property transactions. Blackstone will acquire the maker of anti-rheumatism drugs from PE firm Unison Capital and medical information site business M3, Blackstone said in a statement. It did not provide any details on the deal value. It will pay around $1 billion for Ayumi, including debt, a person familiar with the deal said, declining to be identified because the information has not been made public. "We look forward to working with the company to leverage Blackstone's global footprint and expertise in this sector to help Ayumi meet the growing need for its RA (rheumatoid arthritis) and orthopedic products," Atsuhiko Sakamoto, head of Blackstone's PE business in Japan, said in a statement. Blackstone last year raised about $2.3 billion for its first Asia-focused PE fund. (Reporting by Junko Fujita; Editing by David Dolan and Himani Sarkar) Canadians scheduled to fly on Boeing 737 Max planes this week learned there was little they could do if they felt unsafe flying on an aircraft model that had two crashes in less than six months, including Sundays deadly Ethiopian Airlines crash that left no survivors. While many countries grounded their fleet of Boeing 737 Max aircrafts, Canada and the U.S. were among the last nations to do so. In the stretch of days in which the planes were still in operation, many Canadians discovered that if they wanted to fly on a different aircraft, they had to pay for the changes themselves. Gabor Lukacs is the founder and co-ordinator of Air Passenger Rights, an independent non-profit group of volunteers that advocates for air travel consumers. He told Yahoo Canada theres little Canadian travellers can do if they dont feel comfortable boarding a specific plane. There is no legal right to cancel a flight based on subjective concerns, Lukacs said. If a passenger feels genuinely unsafe I would suggest documenting the issue, and just not boarding. But it may be a tough battle to get a refund from the airline. Air Canada has 24 Boeing 737 Max aircraft in its fleet, which means some routes are being affected by the federal governments decision to ground this plane model, such as the one seen here in Toronto. Photo from Getty Images. Lukacs added that air travellers should be given the courtesy to choose flying with another route, especially when it comes to future incidents involving specific aircraft models. Passengers should be allowed to cancel and rebook with other flights that dont operate such aircrafts, he said. What concerned Lukacs about the initial response from Canadian airlines to concerns around the Boeing aircraft is that they didnt give concerned passengers any other options besides paying the cancellation fee. If someone wants to take a risk and fly on the aircraft, thats one thing but if theyre forced to take the risk, thats not acceptable, he said. Whats most troubling is that airlines are robbing passengers of their choice, of that decisions they make, by refusing to refund their tickets, rebook them or charge them a fee if they want to rebook, he explained. Story continues Airlines left scrambling Now that Sunwing, Westjet and Air Canada have been forced to ground their Boeing 737 Max planes, some passengers are being left in limbo. For example, WestJet operates approximately 35 flights daily on its Boeing 737 Max aircraft, and they have 13 of these jets in their fleet. On Thursday, 11 Westjet flights between Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg and Toronto were cancelled, affecting 1,200 customers. The airline said more than three-quarter of those guests would be rebooked that day. The rest will be rebooked on Friday and Saturday. In a Thursday statement, the airline said that its working through the resulting cancellations, which will continue to affect travellers. Passengers will be rescheduled onto other aircrafts in the airlines fleet. An updated schedule is expected to be made available on Monday, but until then, rebookings will take place on a day-to-day basis. Air Canada has 24 of these now-grounded planes in their fleet, operating approximately 75 flights a day. The airline said adjustments are being made to flight schedules to minimize disruption by optimizing the deployment of the rest of our fleet and looking at alternative options, including accommodating customers on other airlines. Air Canada said that while some routes will continue to operation with different aircraft, others are cancelled in the short term, including Halifax-London and St. Johns-London routes. are cancelled in the short term, with passengers re-routed through our Montreal and Toronto hubs. Air Canada customers travelling soon are advised to contact the companys call centres or travel agents. Travellers will be given priority if they are travelling in the next 48 hours. Sunwing, which has four 737 Max aircraft in its fleet, said aircraft assignments are finalized very close to departure, which makes it hard to give an exact number of times the aircraft is used from each airport. The airline said it is revising its schedule and will not be cancelling any flights as a result of the ban. Happy Friday, readers (and beware the Ides of March). Its a relatively slow news day in the health world but Food and Drug Administration (FDA) commissioner Scott Gottlieb is still making waves on his way out the door. Gottlieb unexpectedly announced hell be stepping down next month following a short-but-spirited tenure leading the agency. He waged tough battles against tobacco and vaping companies, emphasized food safety, spurred new regulations to expedite a record number of drug approvals, and attempted to haul the FDAs approach on digital health into a 21st century world. On Thursday, he issued what, depending on your perspective, is a roasting of or challenge to the drug industry: Modernize yourselves, too. Gottlieb listed various changes the FDA has made in the past two years to modernize how clinical trials are conducted, including new protocols to incorporate various trial designs that are more streamlined and can incorporate new incoming data (such as the use of novel biomarkers to assess a drug). Such protocols could theoretically cut administrative costs and expedite the entire clinical process. But the industry, in his view, has been slow to get with the program. Unfortunately, weve seen a continued reluctance to adopt innovative approaches among sponsors and clinical research organizations. In some cases, the business model adopted by the clinical trial establishment just isnt compatible with the kind of positive but disruptive changes that certain innovations can enable,Gottlieb wrote in a statement. We appreciate that scientific and technical complexity is a real and ongoing challenge, but industry and academia also need to invest in and leverage these approaches and develop new incentives that reward collaboration and data sharing across the clinical research enterprise. This ostensible reluctance by drug makers is a bit of a surprise considering the plummeting return on investment in many pharma companies R&D programs or, perhaps, just a case of inertia. Story continues Read on for the days news, and have a wonderful weekend. INDICATIONS J&J loses another talc powder case. A California jury has dealt a blow to Johnson & Johnson in the ongoing class action alleging cancer links among the companys popular talc powder products. The Oakland jury awarded $29 million to Terry Leavitt, a mesothelioma patient who used the products. J&J vowed to appeal; the firm has won at least three cases in the ongoing litigation, which involves some 13,000 suits. (Reuters) THE BIG PICTURE Dont freak out about that egg-heart health study. A study reverberating round the web today revives the age-old debate about whether or not eggs are bad for your heart health (it concludes that they are). But there are layer to this story; for instance, the study was observational, not a randomized trial, and could contain several confounding factors (such as the way that participants revealed what theyd eaten, largely though self-reported questionnaires). Is a whole lot of cholesterol good for you? Probably not. But theres little evidence that, in reasonable moderation, eggs are going to wind up killing you. (New York Times) REQUIRED READING A Terrorist Attack in New Zealand, by Ellen McGirt Qualcomm Wins First U.S. Trial in Global Dispute With Apple, by Bloomberg Tech Companies Sustainability Problem, by Emily Price Produced by Sy Mukherjee @the_sy_guy sayak.mukherjee@fortune.com Find past coverage. Sign up for other Fortune newsletters. When it comes to giving the best experience to its customers, Carmens Best has been taking leaps and bounds to make patrons get more than just a scoop of their ice cream. Since it first started putting a smile to their customers faces through their fun and intriguing flavors in 2011, the homegrown ice cream brand has become a favorite for many. Carmens Best has also since distributed their products, made only of fresh milk from their own dairy farm, to over 200 outlets, including airlines (PAL, Delta, and Qantas), coffee shops, grocery stores. It also exports to Singapore. Aside from distributing to these outlets, Carmens Best also opened a kiosk at Alabang Town Center in Muntinlupa. For owner Francisco Paco Magsaysay, this physical store made him realize that there are still many patrons who do not know their product. When we first opened our store in Alabang, we found out that there are still a lot of people, who have never tried Carmens Best, said Magsaysay. So, I said that we need more stores and embark on retail business. Last year, Carmens Best unveiled its first ice cream parlor in Power Plant Mall in Rockwell, Makati City. According to Paco, this sit-down store, with a counter that looks like a traditional ice-cream cart, was not originally part of their plan. But when a space opened in the new wing of the said mall, he knew that it was the chance for them to reach out to more customers and let them have more than just single-serve cups of their ice cream. They also serve their products in homemade cones. I want to let as many people taste our products so, we consider this store as our showroom where everyone can try our ice creams flavors, said Magsaysay. But of course, running a retail store is different from business-to-business selling of products. As a hands-on businessman, Magsaysay knew that they need to integrate digital tools to boost the operations of their store, especially with the increasing number of patrons lining up every day to get their ice cream.Carmens Best chose business solutions integrator Genie Technologies Inc. to roll out out a new point of sale system that can help the gourmet ice cream brand not just boost its operations but also deliver the best service to customers. When we opened our store in Power Plant Mall, we did not anticipate the volume of people who would buy our ice cream and, our previous POS system could not keep up with the volume of customers, said Magsaysay. So, I decided to look for a new one that can give us the flexibility we need to adhere to the larger volume of customers. The project aims to upgrade Carmens POS by integrating NCR Aloha POS into their current systems. This solution gives the ice cream parlor the tools it needs to boost sales and increase the pace and accuracy of service. It also eases taking of orders and payments, food preparation, keeping track of inventory, as well as the overall flow of store operations. NCR Aloha POS is also ideal for quick service and fast casual sit-down stores and can be used on fixed POS terminals, built-for-purpose handheld devices and consumer mobile devices. The POS system can even make for a more engaging experience as it enables customers to see the details of their purchase of transaction through a monitor facing them. Working with GenieTech has helped us boost our efficiency, especially since they helped us tailor-fit the POS System to how we want it to work, said Magsaysay. Mahesh Gopinath, the chief operating officer of GenieTech, said that our team is more than excited for this project. From our end, we look forward to supporting Carmens Bests vision of putting a smile on everyones face. (Adds context) SAO PAULO, March 15 (Reuters) - Colombian airline Avianca Holdings canceled an order of 17 Airbus A320 Neo aircraft and delayed deliveries on 35 others, according to a securities filing on Friday. Avianca said this would reduce its financial commitments between 2020 and 2022 by $2.6 billion. The Colombian carrier has shifted its strategy to focus on profitability from growth. The airline is following in the footstep of regional rival LATAM Airlines, which in recent months has said it was reducing future fleet commitments by $2.2 billion. Avianca, United Continental Holdings Inc and Panama's Copa Holdings announced late last year that they would form an alliance to try to expand their reach in the Latin American market, excluding Brazil. Avianca is separate from Avianca Brasil, a struggling carrier that filed for bankruptcy in December, although they share owners. Up until last month, the two airlines had been carrying out due diligence for a potential merger, but that process has been suspended. (Reporting by Marcelo Rochabrun; Editing by Christian Plumb and Grant McCool) Photo credit: Jim Allen/FreightWaves Photo credit: Jim Allen/FreightWaves Thousands of drivers claiming they were misclassified as independent contractors stand to gain from a $100 million settlement against Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings (NYSE: KNX), while the ongoing question of whether such contractors should be considered trucking company employees remains unclear. A settlement agreement in the lawsuit, Van Dusen et al v. Swift Transportation, which began in 2009, was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona on March 11. If approved by the court, it will resolve claims made by roughly 20,000 owner-operator drivers against Knight-Swift's predecessor, Swift Transportation, since 1999 up until Knight and Swift merged on September 8, 2017. The amount received by any individual driver will be based on various factors, including the number of hours worked and how much they were paid. "We think this is a great victory for the drivers and hope it potentially changes the way drivers are treated in the industry," Lesley Tse, a lawyer at the firm representing the drivers, Getman Sweeney & Dunn, told FreightWaves. "A lot of this was about the fact that drivers were classified as independent contractors, but we alleged that the company still exerted control over them, to the extent that they were really employees. But because they were classified as independent contractors, they were denied proper benefits, such as receiving a guaranteed minimum wage." Tse said she hopes drivers classified as independent contractors in the future will "be allowed to have control over the way they do their work in ways they previously didn't have." Knight-Swift said in a statement that the amount of settlement had been accounted for on its balance sheet as of December 31, 2018, and "does not expect that the settlement will have a material impact on its future results of operations." The question of whether and when an owner-operator should be considered a company employee has been the source of conflict for years, with the issue heating up more recently with companies accused of taking advantage of port drivers. Story continues Last year three subsidiary companies of New Jersey-based third-party logistics and warehousing company NFI Industries were accused of misclassifying employees as independent contractors and locking them into exploitative lease-purchase agreements. The resulting conflict involving the Teamsters Union, which has sought to organize independent drayage drivers, was cited as a contributing factor in NFI's decision earlier this year to vacate a major warehouse serving the Los Angeles-Long Beach port area. Disputes over driver classification also raise the issue of whether they can be resolved using mandatory arbitration. A truck driver who sued Missouri-based Prime Inc. for back wages and prevailed in the U.S. Supreme Court in January was considered a test of the ability of motor carriers to force arbitration in driver classification cases. But the outcome of that case should not be considered a green light for class action lawsuits against trucking companies, according to industry experts that assert companies have recourse for arbitration at the state level. In the Knight-Swift case, settlement efforts began in September 2017, at the time of the merger, and continued for over a year with the help of a mediator. "Throughout the settlement negotiations, the parties attempted to resolve complex, difficult, and hotly disputed issues including the amount of the settlement fund, the scope of the settlement period and scope of the settlement class, the procedures for notice, confidentiality, and the scope of any release," according to the settlement document, all of which resulted in an agreement executed on February 7. Want more content like this? Click here to Subscribe Permalink See more from Benzinga 2019 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. Disclaimer: These summaries are provided for educational purposes only by Nelson Rosario and Stephen Palley. They are not legal advice. These are our opinions only, arent authorized by any past, present or future client or employer. Also we might change our minds. We contain multitudes. As always, Rosario summaries are NMR and Palley summaries are SDP". This weeks guest post by Preston Byrne is PJB [related id=1]Srinvasan v. Kenna et al., 2019 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 38834 (N.D. Cal., March 11, 2019) [SDP] Time isnt always on your side, as this case demonstrates, and the fact that bitcoin goes up and down in value isnt going to toll a statute of limitations in the northern district of California apparently. At issue here are two lawsuits that deal with bitcoin somehow acquired from the Defendants company in 2013 or otherwise in its custody. There arent a ton of facts in the opinion, which is a mostly clinical analysis of failings in the lawsuit that led to the courts dismissal, with leave to amend (this means that the plaintiffs can try again). The Court begins by dismissing the lawsuit because it was filed directly against an individual on a corporate veil piercing theory. Generally speaking, if you create a company and treat it like a real company, its viewed as a person in the eyes of the law. If the company breaches a contract or is negligent, the owners cant be held personally liable in most cases unless the plaintiff can pierce the corporate veil and (over-simplifying a lot) show the court that the company is a sham and that the defendant didnt treat it as anything other than an extension of themselves. Ways that you can show this include failure to maintain corporate records, not having separate bank accounts or have arms-length contractual agreements, and so forth. Basically, you want to avoid treating the corporation like it's the same thing as you. Here, the plaintiffs didnt plead any of the necessary elements of corporate veil piercing so the court said the case should be dismissed. Story continues Why sue someone personally instead of their company? One reason might be if you cant find the company or its no longer in existence. Here, plaintiffs may have sued the companys owner personally because it stopped operating in 2013, and that gets to one of the other issues in this case statute of limitations. If you want to file a lawsuit against someone, you have to do it within a certain period of time. One of the claims that Plaintiffs made was for conversion that is, that the defendant stole their bitcoin. But the statute of limitations for conversion in California is three years, according to the opinion. Defendants said that the statute should begin to run in December 2013, when his business shut down. Plaintiffs argued that [l]ooking at the price of bitcoin it is entirely speculative and could have easily dropped to zero numerous times until at least 2016. Until then, [Plaintiffs] loss was speculative and no cause of action accrued. The Court didnt buy plaintiffs argument, and theres an interesting bit of bitcoin related reasoning here. The Court observed that [c]urrency of any type fluctuates in value. And anticipating a given currencys future value involves some level of speculation. But that alone does not mean that no harm occurred at the date of taking. Any manifest and palpable injury commences the statutory period under California law. I cant say that the Courts analysis was terribly surprising but its interesting that it easily analogized bitcoin to currency in reaching its conclusion, showing once again that when confronted with new technology Courts dont throw their hands up in despair, but look to existing precedent to reason their way to a conclusion. Thats what happened here. The Block is pleased to bring you expert cryptocurrency legal analysis courtesy of Stephen Palley (@stephendpalley) and Nelson M. Rosario (@nelsonmrosario). They summarize three cryptocurrency-related cases on a weekly basis and have given The Block permission to republish their commentary and analysis in full. Part II of this week's analysis, Crypto Caselaw Minute, is above. By Angelika Gruber ZURICH (Reuters) - A Swiss court will decide within weeks whether UBS must hand over historical client data to French tax authorities, a ruling that could open the door to fresh financial claims against Switzerland's banks. Although Switzerland exchanges bank account data on current clients with dozens of countries to crack down on cross-border tax cheats, court cases such as UBS's row with France over client tax avoidance are exposing potentially expensive legacy issues in Europe. The Swiss supreme court's ruling could set a precedent whereby other Swiss banks have to hand over confidential historical data to foreign tax authorities that demand it. The case was triggered by lists of more than 10,000 UBS client account numbers that French tax authorities received from German colleagues after a search of the bank's local offices. France wanted names, birth dates and account balances to check whether the account holders had paid their taxes. Swiss tax authorities agreed but UBS fought the case in court. "It's quite clear that this ruling has implications beyond (UBS's) case and we don't know where it will end," said Daniel Buehr, a partner at law firm Lalive. Many other Swiss banks have for years also had active cross-border businesses with clients in France and other European countries which are now hunting down suspected tax evaders who hid money in Switzerland. ENTICING Separately, a French court last month found UBS, Switzerland's largest bank, guilty of illegally soliciting clients and laundering the proceeds of tax evasion, ordering it to pay 4.5 billion euros ($5.1 billion) in penalties. The bank has denied wrongdoing and is appealing the ruling, but has raised litigation provisions. Legal experts say the huge fine slapped on UBS could entice other European countries to challenge the Swiss banks, especially if they are forced to hand over historic account data. Experts point to a similar case in which the supreme court last year granted assistance to German authorities seeking the owner of a Swiss bank account containing 83 million Swiss francs ($82.7 million). Story continues The court ruled that knowing the account number was enough, saying it was not an improper fishing expedition - a key point in France's case. If the supreme court rules that UBS has to supply client data to French tax authorities, it could give France new firepower in the dispute over whether the bank aided tax evasion. UBS is also under investigation in Belgium and Italian authorities have asked Swiss banks for information about their business there. https://reut.rs/2JbKMI2 "For governments that want to spice up their treasury, this is certainly an interesting option," said one senior Swiss official. The case has echoes of when U.S. tax authorities asked UBS for information on the accounts of U.S. clients in 2008. It eventually complied, triggering extensive investigations of other Swiss banks suspected of helping Americans hide their wealth. UBS eventually settled for $780 million, while payments from all the Swiss banks snared in the probe ran into the billions. ($1 = 0.8833 euros) ($1 = 1.0042 Swiss francs) (Additonal reporting by Brenna Hughes Neghaiwi; Writing by Michael Shields; Editing by Kirsten Donovan) Doctors have the Hippocratic oath. What about designers? Last year, shortly after the conclusion of Fortune Brainstorm Design conference in Singapore, a group of innovators got together and created Design Vanguard, a collective that has since crafted the Design Pledge, a code of conduct for designers and has been signed by 50 major corporations, including IBM, Apple and IDEO. During a town hall session at this years Brainstorm Design conference, John Cary, author of Design for Good and one of the instigators behind Design Vanguard, described the pledge as simply reflecting some of the basic things that designers need to be doing, such as safeguarding against harm and ensuring their design can give a voice to the marginalized. Its not rocket science, Cary said. But simple is not the same as easy. Speaking from the audience, Sean Carney, chief design officer at Royal Philips, offered an example of when his companys ultrasound business wanted to expand into Indonesia. The countrys infant and maternity death rates were high and Philips believed its ultrasound machines could help. Carney led a team to investigate whether the Indonesian market really needed to buy $250,000 ultrasound machines. It didnt. Theres no power, no skilled labor, and people wouldnt know how to use this machine, Carney explained. He included the feedback in a report sent to company headquarters. Carneys team concluded that if Philips really wanted to save babies, the company would need a different, and less profitable, solution. You do have to stick to your principles in design and speak up, Carney said. But designers have only recently become empowered to speak up and influence company-wide decisions. Jenny Arden, director of transportation at Airbnb, shared an experience she had 11 years ago when she was hired by an auto company to sell car loans to low-income consumers who couldnt afford the repayments. At that time, in the design world, we were just told to do our job, Arden said. Now, what Im really proud of is that we have that seat and are able to say no. Story continues Advocates of so-called design thinking believe including designers and design processes at senior management levels can help corporations do more good. But designers arent infallible. The notion of design having unintended consequences emerged from conversations more than once during the course of the Fortune conference, which took place last week in Singapore. As the town hall discussion broadened to the rest of the room, one participant rightly questioned whether designers should be moral arbiters. Adobe vice president of design Jamie Myrold said she didnt disagree with the sentiment, adding that designers must maintain humility. We need need to know that we dont know everything, she said, and that should be okay. For more coverage of Fortunes Brainstorm Design conference, click here. FILE PHOTO: The logo of commodities trader Glencore is pictured in front of the company's headquarters in Baar, Switzerland, July 18, 2017. REUTERS/Arnd Wiegmann/File Photo By Aditya Kalra and Mayank Bhardwaj NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India's antitrust watchdog raided units of global commodities trader Glencore and two other firms in Mumbai on Saturday in an inquiry into alleged collusion on the price of pulses, four sources with knowledge of the raids told Reuters. More than 25 antitrust officials carried out the raids at the offices of local units of Glencore and Africa's Export Trading Group, and India's Edelweiss group which previously had a commodities business, two government sources told Reuters. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has been investigating allegations that the companies formed a cartel to discuss the pricing of pulses while importing and selling them in the Indian market at higher prices in 2015 and 2016, when India faced an acute shortage, the sources said. A spokesman for Switzerland-based Glencore, Charles Watenphul, declined to comment, while India's Edelweiss, which sold its commodities trading business in November 2016, and the Export Trading Group did not respond to requests for comment. Two years of drought pushed up prices of pulses such as chickpeas and black grams, which are a staple of Indian cuisine, in 2015 and forced New Delhi to offer duty-free imports, encouraging foreign and Indian traders who imported pulses to sell locally. "The collusion by these companies led to higher prices of pulses," one of the government sources said, adding that the CCI's inquiry started three months ago. The investigation will also assess whether the companies have continued their alleged collusion even after the prices of pulses stabilized in recent years, the source said. IMPORT PRICES The raids on five company offices in India's financial capital began on Friday and were concluded on Saturday. Antitrust officials collected evidence, including documents and e-mails, and questioned company officials during the raids, a second government source said. Story continues Another source, an industry executive, told Reuters that CCI's search involved going through company records at Glencore's office in Mumbai, confirming it was part of the watchdog's probe into accusations of fixing import prices. The drought during 2015 wilted crops and exacerbated shortages of food such as protein-rich pulses and India, which consumes about 22 million tonnes of pulses annually, faced a shortfall of 7-8 million tonnes in 2015-16. The CCI's raids on commodities traders mark only its fourth such search operation in its near 10-year history. They can only be conducted with approval from a judge. In October, the CCI raided the offices of global brewers such as Carlsberg and Anheuser Busch InBev and found e-mails which allegedly showed violations of Indian anti-trust laws. (https://reut.rs/2JeQKEs) The brewing companies have pleaded leniency under a CCI program, Reuters has reported. (Reporting by Aditya Kalra and Mayank Bhardwaj; Additional reporting by Rajendra Jadhav and Aditi Shah; Editing by Alexander Smith) FILE PHOTO: Silhouettes of laptop users are seen next to a screen projection of Facebook logo in this picture illustration taken March 28, 2018. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo (Reuters) - Facebook Inc said on Friday it would use artificial intelligence to combat the spread of intimate photos shared without people's permission, sometimes called "revenge porn," on its social networks. The new technology is in addition to a pilot programme https://newsroom.fb.com/news/h/non-consensual-intimate-image-pilot-the-facts that required trained representatives to review offending images. "By using machine learning and artificial intelligence, we can now proactively detect near nude images or videos that are shared without permission," the social networking giant said in a blog post https://newsroom.fb.com/news/2019/03/detecting-non-consensual-intimate-images. "This means we can find this content before anyone reports it." A member of Facebook's community operations team would review the content found by the new technology, and if found to be an offending image, remove it or disable the account responsible for spreading it, the company added. "Revenge porn" refers to the sharing of sexually explicit images on the internet, without the consent of the people depicted in the pictures, in order to extort or humiliate them. The practice disproportionately affects women, who are sometimes targeted by former partners. Facebook will also launch a support hub called "Not Without My Consent" on its safety centre page for people whose intimate images have been shared without their consent. The Menlo Park, California-based company works with at least five outsourcing vendors in at least eight countries on content review, a Reuters tally shows. It had about 15,000 people, a mix of contractors and employees, working on content review as of December. (Reporting by Sayanti Chakraborty, Supantha Mukherjee and Sonam Rai in Bengaluru; Editing by Sai Sachin Ravikumar) Hi+ (Home Info Plus) is a one-stop portal (mobile app) for the companys homebuyers where they can check their account information from reservation up to move-in phase. With the Virtual Tour App, homebuyers can virtually walk inside the housing units of their choice without leaving their homes or offices. Innovation, disruption and change are not generally associated with the real estate industry but in a digital age where consumers expectations are shifting, this is rapidly evolving. The industry must provide a faster, less paper-intensive process and give consumers more control. When it comes to technological advancements, P.A. Alvarez Properties & Development Corp., the countrys largest developer of affordable housing south of Metro Manila, recognizes that the industry has been quite behind. To be able to compete in a volatile marketplace, the company knows that it has to up its game and looks at how to upgrade its operations to create better customer experiences.What people are looking for has changed in the last five years as fast-paced technological and social change transform how people live and work. Technology is now playing a critical role in our sector so we started embarking on a digital transformation in our processes and operations to better respond to our stakeholders, said Reynaldo Ascano, senior executive vice president of P.A. Properties. In terms of building technology, P.A. Properties now employs several modern techniques like Cast-in-Place technology, where locally supplied ready-mix concrete or site mix mortar, steel reinforcement and plastic formwork are delivered to the construction site, allowing concrete and mortar structures to be produced at the project site. This makes the construction process more efficient, allowing single-story units to be finished in 25 days while two-story units, in mere 45 days. Meeting the ever-growing demand for real estate is hard. But with the advancements in construction techniques, it is now possible to construct projects in less time, Ascano said. As it adopts new building techniques, P.A. Properties also set up several customer-friendly innovations including Hi+ (Home Info Plus), a one-stop portal (mobile app) for the companys home buyers where they can check their account information from reservation up to move-in phase. The app also has a chat support function where buyers can directly channel their concerns and inquiries to a dedicated customer care representative.Gone are the days when buyers need to shuttle back and forth from their homes to the brokers office in order to reserve units, submit documents, check on the status of construction and pay for monthly amortization. Theres also a centralized communication tool used to send advice to P.A. Properties customers called eCast (email and SMS notifications) where reminders, announcements or follow-ups can be sent via e-mail and SMS. It also has a Customer Care Hub, an integrated, process-driven service center that allows customers direct access to customer care ambassadors who are best equipped to respond to concerns and inquiries. P.A. Properties is all about making the Filipinos home ownership journey as easy and as painless as possible. Innovation, for us, is more than just a strategic imperative. We are continuously cultivating a culture of innovation across the company, encouraging creativity, lifelong learning, taking calculated risks and openness in everything we do. Only by embracing the spirit of innovation can we truly survive the challenges of a booming real estate industry, said Ascano. For 24 years, Laguna-based P.A. Alvarez has established a name in the competitive Philippine real estate industry by enabling the public to have their dream homes at affordable rates and payment schemes. P.A. Properties, with a capitalization of P3.3 billion as of October 2018, has already built about 19,000 housing units in Laguna, Batangas, Bulacan, Cavite, Pampanga and Metro Manila and continues to embark on strategic expansion efforts to further build 25 additional housing communities in the next five years to help ease the more than 6 million housing backlog in the Philippines and contribute to the growth of the economy as well. GE's power business saw negative cash flow of $2.7 billion in 2018. CEO Larry Culp warned that "it will be worse" in 2019. But Culp says power "will get significantly better in 2020, and we expect positive free cash flow in 2021." General Electric GE shares rose in premarket trading as CEO Larry Culp gave investors on Thursday an upbeat long term outlook on the company's struggling power business. "We will have a greater level of negative cash flow in [the power] business this year," Culp told CNBC's Morgan Brennan . GE's power business saw negative cash flow of $2.7 billion in 2018 and Culp warned that "it will be worse" in 2019. But it's "game on" this year, Culp said, as he aims to get things back on track. "From there will get significantly better in 2020, and we expect positive free cash flow in 2021," Culp said. GE shares rose 3.8 percent in trading. At the core of GE's two-year stock fall is the company's failure to forecast a downturn in demand for its turbines, the titanic machinery that powers natural gas and coal-fired power plants. GE ended up with little demand for power plant equipment. GE forecasts the market for gas-powered turbines will remain stagnant through 2020. "Power is in a serious turnaround mode. This is not going to be quick, by any stretch," Culp said on the company's conference call on Thursday. GE power was also hit by an issue with the next generation turbines the company had recently put into the field. While the an oxidization issue "created cracking" in the turbines, Culp said last week that GE has now "upgraded about 23 of the 33" turbines in operation. Even as the business continues to struggle, Culp pointed to the years ahead. GE said in its outlook that power will be "significant better but negative" in 2020. More From CNBC BENSALEM, Pa., March 14, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Law Offices of Howard G. Smith announces an investigation on behalf of Conagra Brands, Inc. investors (Conagra or the Company) (NYSE: CAG ) concerning the Company and its officers possible violations of federal securities laws. On December 20, 2018, the Company disclosed disappointing financial results for 2Q 2019, including net sales for its recently-acquired Pinnacle segment that were below expectations due to weak performance across a range of significant brands, which resulted in much negative scrutiny by analysts, questioning whether Conagra had performed proper due diligence in the transaction. On this news, shares of Conagra fell $2.13 or nearly 9%, to close at 22.15 on December 21, 2018, thereby injuring investors. If you purchased Conagra securities, have information or would like to learn more about these claims, or have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Howard G. Smith, Esquire, of Law Offices of Howard G. Smith, 3070 Bristol Pike, Suite 112, Bensalem, Pennsylvania 19020 by telephone at (215) 638-4847, toll-free at (888) 638-4847, or by email to howardsmith@howardsmithlaw.com , or visit our website at www.howardsmithlaw.com . This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules. Iran's Oil Minister Bijan Zanganeh talks to journalists at the beginning of an OPEC meeting in Vienna, Austria, November 30, 2017. REUTERS/Heinz-Peter Bader (Reuters) - Iranian Oil Minister Bijan Zanganeh said on Saturday frequent U.S. comments about oil prices had created market tensions, the ministry's news website SHANA reported. U.S. President Donald Trump, who has made the U.S. economy one of his top issues, has repeatedly tweeted about oil prices and the Organization of the Petroleum Producing Countries. He has expressed concern about higher prices, including last month and ahead of OPEC's meeting in December. "Americans talk a lot and I advise them to talk less. They (have) caused tensions in the oil market for over a year now and they are responsible for it, and if this trend continues, the market will be more tense," SHANA quoted Zanganeh as saying. U.S. crude futures briefly hit a 2019 high on Friday but later retreated along with benchmark Brent oil as worries about the global economy and robust U.S. production put a brake on prices. OPEC and its allies including Russia, an alliance known as OPEC+, agreed last year to cut production, partly in response to increased U.S. shale output. Washington granted waivers to eight major buyers of Iranian oil after the U.S. reimposed sanctions on Iran's oil sector in November, after withdrawing from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. "We do not know whether U.S. waivers would be extended or not, we will do our job but they (the U.S.) say something new every single day," Zanganeh said. Zanganeh was speaking at a news conference ahead of the planned inauguration on Sunday of four development phases at South Pars, the worlds largest gas field, by President Hassan Rouhani. He said Iran had invested $11 billion to complete the phases 13 and 22-24 of the giant field, which Tehran shares with Qatar, and expected to operate 27 phases by next March, SHANA reported. Frances Total and China National Petroleum Corp (CNPC) suspended investment in phase 11 of South Pars last year after the United States threatened to impose sanctions on companies that do business in Iran. But Zanganeh said talks with CNPC were continuing. "Negotiations are ongoing. A senior delegation from China is due to come to Iran for talks. They have promised to come to Iran soon," said Zanganeh, according to the semi-official news agency ISNA. (Reporting by Dubai newsroom; Editing by Marie-Louise Gumuchian and Marguerita Choy) An Oakland, Calif. jury has awarded a $29 million settlement to a woman who sued Johnson & Johnson over allegations that the companys talcum-based baby powder contains asbestos-causing cancer, according to ABC News. Teresa Leavitts lawsuit against the pharmaceutical giant claimed the companys baby powder was the reason she developed mesothelioma, a cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. The consumer health and beauty products corporation said it would appeal Thursdays verdict, noting, We respect the legal process and reiterate that jury verdicts are not medical, scientific or regulatory conclusions about a product. Johnson & Johnson has lost and is appealing other lawsuits based on claims that the companys talc contains toxic chemicals. In 2018, a Missouri jury ordered the company to pay $4.69 billion to 22 women who said the product gave them ovarian cancer. Following this most recent verdict, jnj Johnson & Johnson faces an additional 11,000 to 13,000 lawsuits of a similar nature, which are currently pending and allege cancer resulted from using the companys asbestos-tainted baby powder. J&J is also being investigated by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the U.S. Justice Department regarding disclosures about asbestos in its products. A December 2018 report by Reuters examined internal company documents that showed for decades, company executives and scientists knew and discussed addressing positive tests for asbestos in powders but did nothing to warn the public or pull the products over health and safety concerns. Latin American e-commerce giant MercadoLibre dumped crypto just days after receiving $750 million from PayPal. | Source: Shutterstock MercadoLibre, a Latin American e-commerce giant with a presence in nearly 20 countries, recently started warning users that cryptocurrency-related listings will be banned from its platform. The company made the announcement just days after receiving a $750 million investment from PayPal. $22 Billion Latin American E-Commerce Giant Bans Crypto Listings The e-commerce retailers move comes as it also cracks down on pre-paid cards and digital currencies used in games. The measure will take effect from March 19 onward, according to an email the company has been sending its vendors. MercadoLibre's email to its vendors MercadoLibre will bar users from selling cryptocurrency on its platform. | Source: MercadoLibre/Criptomoedas Facil In the email, MercadoLibre notes that the vendor has listings related to cryptocurrencies or pre-paid cards for games and asks them to finalize them as soon as possible, as theyll be automatically dropped on March 19. Local news outlet Criptomoedas Facil reports that in Brazil alone one of the 18 countries MercadoLibre serves there are over 5,630 bitcoin-related ads and over 9,320 cryptocurrency-related listings. Ripple (XRP), reportedly the most popular cryptocurrency on the Latin American platform, appears in more than 11,100 ads. Last year, a bitcoin wallet and merchant processing service called Ripio entered a partnership with MercadoLibre, so the platform could allow its users to withdraw received funds directly in bitcoin. Both MercadoLibre and Ripio are Argentine firms. Why the e-commerce retailer is dropping cryptocurrency-related listings is currently unclear. Platforms that have banned ads and products related to the crypto space in the past pointed to various reasons revolving around fraud, potential illicit activities, and user security. Read the full story on CCN.com. InLife Sheroes influencers Insular Life, the first and largest Filipino life insurance company, teamed up with IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, to launch a program that is expected to impact the lives of one million Filipino women. Called InLife Sheroes, it will provide risk mitigation solutions throughout their lifetime and educate them on financial management, health and well-being. InLife Sheroes introduced its pioneer class of influencers Amina Aranaz Aluman, Sherill Quintana and Rose Fres Fausto. They are women of success and substance who made an impact on the lives of others through their craftsmanship, advocacies and persistence. Another InLife Sheroes influencer is the civic group Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation. NWTF has been a catalyst for social change and a fitting advocate for Filipino women.As influencers, they will use their status, expertise, and reach to help more Filipino women gain knowledge and training so they can create a future of financial empowerment. Amina Aranaz Alunan is the creative mind behind the eponymous fashion accessories brand Aranaz and the founder of the countrys first specialized design college, SoFa Design Institute. As a fashion brand, Aranaz has been elevating Filipino artistry and craftsmanship in the international fashion market since 1999. Aranaz craft collections echo the history behind the Filipino brand, and its commitment to promoting local artisans and handmade products. SoFa Design Institute is an organization that empowers young students to pursue their dreams in the creative arena. Established in 2007 as the School of Fashion and the Arts, the institute evolved into a comprehensive design school having included interior design in its academic programs. Amina also sees insurance as another tool to help entrepreneurs like her secure their hard earned capital. Sherill Quintana embraces every opportunity to inspire more women to take charge of their financial well-being. This is her way of giving back to the women entrepreneurs who stood as her mentors when she was establishing Oryspa as a Filipino brand. Oryspa is a pioneering rice bran-based health, beauty and wellness product which started production more than ten years ago. Sherill stumbled upon an ingenious idea to use rice barn locally known as darak for health and wellness products which became the brand we know and love today as Oryspa.Today, Oryspas essential oils, stress, and pain relief products, bath and body essentials, and baby care line are sold in 58 franchisees and distribution stores here and abroad, and four company-owned outlets nationwide. Investment banker turned full-time homemaker Rose Fres Fausto sharpens and shares her financial skills through her books, website, social media channels, weekly columns, and insightful talks. Anchored on FQ or financial intelligence quotient, Roses fqmom.com simplifies the principles of behavioral economics as she tackles financial literacy at the backdrop of family and relationship situations, as well as women scenarios. Rose notes that despite the crucial importance of personal finance, most people do not have the proper training for it, as manifested in smart, industrious middle-aged and senior citizens not prepared for their retirement, despite having been gainfully employed during their younger years. Rose underscores the essential role of an FQ mother a term she defined as someone who believes in the importance of raising her children with high FQ. Founded in 1984 as a non-government organization with the dreams to help women and contribute to poverty alleviation efforts, Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation now serves almost 400,000 clients. The foundation has 130 branches in Batangas, Laguna, Palawan, Panay, Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Samar and Leyte. In order to improve access to financial and non-financial support for its clients, the foundation primarily provides Grameen based micro-financing and developmental services. The foundations two core projects namely Dungganon and Kasanag with direct English translations of noble and light, respectively, help women live decent and manageable lives. Special counsel Robert Mueller and lawyers for former Trump campaign official Rick Gates requested a delay in Gates sentencing Friday, citing cooperation in several ongoing investigations. The joint court filing requested 60 more days before the next update on Gates status, CNBC reports, their third request for such a delay. Gates was one of the first to be indicted under Muellers investigation in 2017 alongside former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort. The two faced a handful of charges, mostly related to their unregistered political consulting in Ukraine, which began in 2006. Gates pleaded guilty last year to one count of lying to federal investigators and one count of conspiracy against the U.S. by avoiding taxes. He eventually became a key witness against Manafort, who was recently sentenced to a total of 7.5 years in prison. While some have speculated that Muellers investigation is coming to an endciting the departure top prosecutor Andrew Weissmannthe continued delay in Gates sentencing shows the probe is yet to be complete. Tesla Inc. founder Elon Musk speaks at the unveiling event by "The Boring Company" for the test tunnel of a proposed underground transportation network across Los Angeles County, in Hawthorne, California, U.S. December 18, 2018. Robyn Beck/Pool via REUTERS/Files By Alexandria Sage SAN FRANCISCO - Tesla Inc Chief Executive Elon Musk shot back against U.S. securities regulators on Monday, arguing in a filing that his recent tweet about the electric vehicle maker's production volume did not violate his fraud settlement and he cannot be held in contempt. Musk's "single, immaterial" tweet to his more than 24 million Twitter followers claiming the electric vehicle-maker would produce around 500,000 cars in 2019 also complied with company's communication policy for senior executives, a condition of the settlement, lawyers for the Tesla chief wrote in a filing in federal court in Manhattan. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission had asked the court to hold Musk in contempt, saying his Feb. 19 tweet violated a September fraud settlement barring him from sharing material information about Tesla on social media without the company's pre-approval. "This contempt action, following Musk's sincerely-held criticism of the SEC on 60 Minutes, also reflects concerning and unprecedented overreach on the part of the SEC," the filing said. In December, Musk said in a "60 Minutes" interview that: "I do not have respect for the SEC." The settlement between Musk, Tesla and the SEC resolved an SEC lawsuit over claims Musk made on Twitter in August that he had "funding secured" to take Tesla private at $420 per share. The SEC called those tweets "false and misleading" and a go-private deal never materialized. As part of that settlement, Musk stepped down as the company's chairman and he and Tesla agreed to pay $20 million each in fines. The renewed public battle between Tesla's chief executive and the top U.S. securities regulator adds pressure on Musk, the public face of Tesla, who is struggling to make the company profitable after cutting the price of its Model 3 sedan to $35,000. Tesla has backed off a plan to close all its U.S. stores and said it will instead raise prices of its higher-end vehicles by about 3 percent on average. In the filing, Musk's lawyers said his tweet was a "proud and optimistic restatement of publicly disclosed information." Story continues Musk corrected his tweet four hours later to say that the "annualized production rate" at year-end 2019 would probably be about 500,000, with deliveries expected to be about 400,000. Moreover, Musk has exhibited self-censorship in dramatically reducing the volume of tweets since the settlement, they wrote, adding that the SEC's request, if granted, would raise free speech issues. "This self-censorship is reflective of his commitment to adhering to the Order and avoiding unnecessary disputes with the SEC," they wrote in the filing. Musk called the regulator the "Shortseller Enrichment Commission" on Twitter after the settlement, and tweeted that "something is broken with SEC oversight" just one day after the agency started pursuing the contempt order. Legal experts have said the SEC could now pursue multiple avenues, including a higher fine, imposing further restrictions on Musk's activities or removing him from Tesla's board or helm. Tesla published a new communications policy in December for senior executives as part of the settlement. It called for Tesla's general counsel and a newly designated in-house securities law attorney to pre-approve any written statements about Tesla that could be material. A disclosure controls committee, made up of board members Brad Buss, Antonio Gracias and James Murdoch, was tasked with overseeing compliance with the new policy. (Reporting by Alexandria Sage in San Francisco, and Rama Venkat and Subrat Patnaik in Bengaluru; Additional reporting by Sonam Rai in Bengaluru; Editing by Meredith Mazzilli and Lisa Shumamker) * Pompeo says U.S. wants to continue talks * Leader Kim Jong Un may make announcement on talks soon * U.S. has "every expectation" Kim to stick to no-test pledges * Pompeo says return to testing would be "most unfortunate" * N. Korean diplomat blames Bolton, Pompeo for breakdown * Inter-Korean meeting cancelled after N. Korea no-show (Adds Trump visit to Pentagon, Pompeo quote in Fox News interview; adds byline, WASHINGTON dateline) By Joyce Lee and David Brunnstrom SEOUL/WASHINGTON, March 15 (Reuters) - North Korea is considering suspending talks with the United States and may rethink a freeze on missile and nuclear tests unless Washington makes concessions, a senior diplomat said on Friday, according to news reports from the North's capital. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the United States wished to continue talks with North Korea and had "every expectation" that its leader, Kim Jong Un, would stick to pledges not to resume nuclear and missile testing. Pompeo gave no sign of U.S. willingness to soften its stance in demanding that North Korea give up its nuclear weapons. North Korean Vice Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui blamed top U.S. officials for the breakdown of last month's summit between Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump in Hanoi, Russia's TASS news agency and the Associated Press reported. "We have no intention to yield to the U.S. demands (at the Hanoi summit) in any form, nor are we willing to engage in negotiations of this kind," TASS quoted Choe as telling reporters in the North Korean capital. The second Trump-Kim summit broke down over differences about U.S. demands for Pyongyang to denuclearize and North Korea's demand for dramatic relief from international sanctions imposed for its nuclear and missile tests, which it pursued for years in defiance of U.N. Security Council resolutions. Choe said Pompeo and U.S. national security adviser John Bolton "created the atmosphere of hostility and mistrust and, therefore, obstructed the constructive effort for negotiations between the supreme leaders of North Korea and the United States", TASS reported. Story continues Kim would make an announcement soon on his position on the denuclearization talks and North Korea's next steps, TASS quoted Choe as saying. She said Washington had thrown away a golden opportunity at the summit and warned that Kim might rethink a moratorium on missile launches and nuclear tests, AP reported. "I want to make it clear that the gangster-like stand of the U.S. will eventually put the situation in danger," AP quoted Choe as saying. However, she added: "Personal relations between the two supreme leaders are still good and the chemistry is mysteriously wonderful." Bolton told reporters outside the White House Choe's statement was "inaccurate." He said he had spoken to his South Korean counterpart but wanted to consult with other U.S. officials before responding further. Bolton later accompanied Trump to a pre-arranged meeting with top defense officials at the Pentagon. U.S. SEEKS MORE 'CONVERSATIONS' WITH NORTH Pompeo told reporters it was not the first time he had been called "gangster-like" by North Korea. "And following that we continued to have very professional conversations ... I have every expectation we will be able to continue to do that," he said. Pompeo said that in her remarks, Choe had left open the possibility that negotiations would continue. "It's the administration's desire that we continue to have conversations around this," Pompeo said. "As the president said when he was in Hanoi, the offer that they made simply didn't rise to the level that was acceptable, given what they were asking for in exchange." Kim had committed multiple times to Trump in Hanoi that he would not to resume nuclear or missile testing, Pompeo said. "That's Chairman Kim's word. We have every expectation he will live up to that commitment." Pompeo told Fox News he did not want to forecast "what we will do or what we might do" if Kim were to resume testing, but added: "That would be most unfortunate. I think Chairman Kim understands that." Trump has pointed to North Korea's freeze in nuclear and missile testing since 2017 as a positive outcome from nearly a year of diplomatic engagement with North Korea. He and Kim had previous exchanged fiery rhetoric that had raised fears of war. Washington has said it is closely watching activity at a North Korean rocket site that U.S. think tanks have said could be preparations for a new launch. Trump has made much of his personal chemistry with Kim and has said he would be "very disappointed" in Kim if North Korea were to resume testing. South Korea, which has an ambitious agenda of engagement with North Korea that is dependent on Pyongyang and Washington resolving at least some of their differences, said it was too early to tell what Choe's comments might mean. "We cannot judge the current situation based solely on Vice Minister Choe Son Hui's statements. We are watching the situation closely. In any situation, our government will endeavour for the restart of North Korea-U.S. negotiations," South Korea's presidential Blue House said in a statement. Choe's comments echoed the North's usual rhetoric at tense points in its dealings with Washington. North Korea expert Joshua Pollack said North Korea may be delivering an ultimatum. "They're putting down a marker, saying which way things are headed if nothing changes," Pollack, of the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies in Monterey, California, said. Joel Wit of the 38 North think tank said North Korea was likely toughening its negotiating position after the collapse of the Hanoi summit. "It is likely to gauge the U.S. reaction in the days ahead before making a decision to launch a rocket," he said. Choe had said after the Hanoi talks that Kim might lose his commitment to pursue a deal with the United States after seeing it reject a request to lift some sanctions in return for the North destroying its main known nuclear complex. In Beijing, Premier Li Keqiang urged patience and further dialogue between North Korea and the United States. Earlier on Friday, a spokeswoman for South Korea's Ministry of Unification told a press briefing that the weekly inter-Korean meeting scheduled at a liaison office in Kaesong, North Korea, had been cancelled after the North Koreans said they would not be sending senior officials. The spokeswoman said the ministry had not confirmed why the North Korean officials decided not to attend. (Reporting by Joyce Lee and Josh Smith in Seoul and David Brunnstrom in Washington; Additional reporting by Choonsik Yoo, Ju-min Park and Joori Roh in Seoul and Doina Chiacu and Susan Heavey in Washington; Writing by Jack Kim; Editing by Nick Macfie, Jeffrey Benkoe and James Dalgleish) Brenton Tarrant, the shootings suspect, is an Australian citizen. (AP) The suspected gunman who killed dozens of people in New Zealand is an Australian racist eco-fascist who posted a 74-page manifesto online before the shootings and described Donald Trump as a symbol of white supremacy. The man, who identified himself in a livestream of the massacre as Brenton Tarrant, said he was motivated by far-right extremism he saw in the United States to carry out the attack at Al Noor Mosque. At least 49 people were gunned down dead in two mosques in New Zealand. At least 41 people were killed at the Masjid Al Noor mosque in central Christchurch while at least seven people died inside the suburban Linwood Masjid Mosque. The suspect has been charged with murder while three other people have been held in custody. Police have said a man in his late 20s has been charged with murder and will appear at the Christchurch court on Saturday morning. Footage of the attack at the Al Noor mosque was posted under the username Brenton Tarrant 9 and shows the gunman firing 205 times on men, woman and children and stopping only to reload his weapons. Tarrant also appears to have posted a link to a manifesto on a now-deleted Twitter account and the online forum 8chan where he spoke of his hatred for Muslim immigrants in Europe. The gun Brenton Tarrant used to carry out the attack. (AP) In it, he says he was inspired by mass killer Anders Breivik, who killed 77 people in Norway in 2011. He also mentions Finsbury Park terrorist Darren Osborne as well as London mayor Sadiq Khan. He also goes on to rail against mass immigration and said he views Donald Trump as a symbol of renewed white identity. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison confirmed the shooter was Australian and described him as an extremist, right-wing, violent terrorist. The manifesto included various questions and answers, one of which asked: Who are you? The reply said: Just a ordinary White man, 28 years old. Born in Australia to working class, low income family. My parents are of Scottish, Irish and English stock. I had a regular childhood, without any great issues. I had little interest in education during my schooling, barely achieving a passing grade. Story continues Police stand outside a mosque after the shooting. (AP) He added: I am just a regular White man, from a regular family. Who decided to take a stand to ensure a future for my people. The manifesto said he carried out the attack to show the invaders that our lands will never be their lands, our homeland are our own and that, as long as a white man still lives, they will NEVER conquer our lands and they will never replace our people. He said he was in New Zealand temporarily while he planned and trained the attack. With regard to planning the attack, he wrote: I begun planning an attack roughly two years in advance and an attack at the location in Christchurch three months in advance. Map of mosque shootings in Christchurch New Zealand. (PA) Four suspects have been taken into custody following the shooting and the gunman has been charged with murder. New Zealands Prime Minister Jacinda Arden said: This can only be described as a terrorist attack. While we do not have anything to believe at this stage that there were any other suspects, we are not assuming that at this stage. (Adds details on divestment of TAG pipeline, resolution of transfer-of-rights dispute) By Gram Slattery and Marta Nogueira RIO DE JANEIRO, March 15 (Reuters) - Roberto Castello Branco, the chief executive of Brazil's Petroleo Brasileiro SA , said on Friday he believes the company will divest some $10 billion in assets in the first four months of 2019, aided by the sale of a major pipeline unit. At the same event in Rio de Janeiro, Brazilian Economy Minister Paulo Guedes said Petrobras, as the firm is known, has almost settled on terms with the government regarding a dispute over an oil-producing zone known as the transfer-of-rights area. The resolution of that spat would results in billions of dollars more being added to the company's coffers. Petrobras is aggressively divesting non-core assets in a bid to reduce its hefty debt load, which has steadily fallen in recent years but is still above that of its peers. On Wednesday, sources told Reuters that the firm is accepting the final round of bids for its TAG gas pipeline unit on April 2, which is expected to bring in several billion dollars and will likely be the company's largest-ever asset sale. At Friday's event, Castello Branco said he believes the TAG deal will be among the divestments completed by the end of April, bringing Petrobras' total divestments in the first four months of 2019 to some $10 billion. TRANSFER-OF-RIGHTS Speaking at the same event, Economy Minister Guedes, without specifying the currency, said Petrobras and the government had started off 60 billion apart in their negotiating positions regarding the transfer-of-rights area, but were now only 2 billion apart. The figures likely refer to dollars, as the two sides at one point each believed they were owed $30 billion. The transfer-of-rights area is the result of a 2010 deal between the Brazilian government and Petrobras related to a huge share offering that would have diluted the government's stake. To maintain control of the company, the government sold Petrobras the rights to explore 5 billion barrels of oil in an area off Brazil's coast for 74.8 billion reais at the time. With that money, it bought additional Petrobras shares. But Brazil's oil regulator now estimates there are around 17 billion barrels of recoverable oil in the area, and the government is seeking to auction rights for the exploration of the excess oil. First, the two sides need to resolve the dispute over the area, which will result in a significant payment to Petrobras. (Reporting by Gram Slattery; Editing by Steve Orlofsky and Dan Grebler) NEW YORK, March 14, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Conagra Brands, Inc. (Conagra or the Company) (CAG) and certain of its officers and directors. The class action, filed in United States District Court, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, and indexed under 19-cv-01805, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons and entities, other than Defendants and their affiliates, who purchased, or otherwise acquired, Conagra common stock from June 27, 2018 through December 19, 2018, inclusive (the Class Period), seeking to pursue remedies under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the Exchange Act). The Exchange Act claims allege that certain defendants engaged in a fraudulent scheme to artificially inflate the Companys stock price. The action is also brought on behalf of all persons or entities who purchased shares of Conagras common stock pursuant and/or traceable to the Companys false and/or misleading registration statement, prospectus and prospectus supplement (the Offering Documents) issued in connection with the Companys secondary public offering commenced on or about October 9, 2018, for the sale of approximately 16.3 million shares of Conagra common stock (the SPO), at $35.25 per share, seeking to pursue remedies under the Securities Act of 1933 (the Securities Act). If you are a shareholder who purchased Conagra securities between June 27, 2018, and December 19, 2018, you have until April 23, 2019, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com. To discuss this action, contact Robert S. Willoughby at rswilloughby@pomlaw.com or 888.476.6529 (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 9980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased. [Click here to join this class action] Story continues Conagra manufactures and markets packaged foods for retail consumers, restaurants and institutions. The Company has a portfolio of well-known food brands including Reddi-wip, Hunts, Healthy Choice, Slim Jim and Orville Redenbachers. Conagra is based in Chicago, Illinois. In January 2013, Conagra acquired Ralcorp Holdings, Inc., a manufacturer of private branded food, for $6.8 billion including debt. After trying and failing to address executional shortfalls and customer service issues, Conagra divested its Private Brands business in February 2016 to TreeHouse Foods for $2.7 billion, recognizing a substantial loss. Less than two years later, Conagra was again acquiring another large publicly traded food service company. On June 27, 2018, Conagra announced the acquisition of Pinnacle in a cash and stock transaction valued at approximately $10.9 billion (the Transaction). At the time of the Transaction and throughout the Class Period, Conagra represented the merger as a combination of two growing portfolios and a no brainer of a deal that would enhance Conagras multi-year transformation plan and expand its presence and capabilities in its most strategic categories, including frozen foods and snacks. Conagra highlighted their due diligence of the deal, the similar cultures and work ethics of the two companies, and the tremendous synergies of the deal. Specifically, Defendants represented that the Company was acquiring a portfolio of complementary, leading brands as the Pinnacle team has done an absolutely phenomenal job driving innovation and growth here, and that meant a lot to us. In addition, Defendants represented that the Company had a proven track record of executing strategic transactions and will be able to implement a smooth integration process, as weve been very clear-eyed from the beginning of the Transaction. The Complaint alleges that in Conagras Offering Documents and throughout the Class Period, Defendants failed to disclose material adverse facts about the Companys financial well-being, including the troubled acquisition of Pinnacle Foods, Inc. (Pinnacle). As a result of Defendants wrongful acts, false and misleading statements and omissions, and the precipitous decline in the market value of the Companys common stock, Plaintiff and other Class members have suffered significant losses and damages. On or about October 9, 2018, in order to partially finance the pending acquisition of Pinnacle, Defendants effectuated a secondary public offering of 16,312,057 shares of common stock, priced at $35.25 per share. In connection with the SPO, Defendants issued the materially false and/or misleading Offering Documents. The Company received net proceeds of approximately $612 million after underwriters exercised their option of an additional 1,631,206 shares of Conagra common stock. Unbeknownst to shareholders, however, Conagra and its management were aware or recklessly disregarded that the Transaction would not result in the sort of benefits that Defendants had publicly represented. Just a few weeks after the closing of the merger, on December 20, 2018, Conagra stunned the market by releasing its third quarter 2018 results, as well as an update on the performance of the newly merged company, which revealed that Pinnacles performance had been much worse than Defendants had previously represented. In addition, Defendants revealed that Pinnacles three leading brands had suffered sales and distribution losses in 2018 and accounted for the vast majority of Pinnacles current challenges due to self-inflicted subpar innovation and executional missteps. As a result of the disclosure, on December 20, 2018, Conagras stock price fell $4.81 per share to $24.28, or nearly 17%, wiping out over $2.3 billion in Conagras market capitalization. On the next trading day, Conagras stock declined an additional $2.13 per share, or approximately 8.8%. In fact, in three trading sessions, Conagra stock declined $8.13, or nearly 28%, to close at $20.96 on December 24, 2018. The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com CONTACT: Robert S. Willoughby Pomerantz LLP rswilloughby@pomlaw.com 888-476-6529 ext. 9980 NEW YORK, March 14, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed on behalf of investors in United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC or the Company) (UMC) against certain of the Companys current and former officers and directors. The class action, filed in United States District Court, Southern District of New York, and indexed under 19-cv-02304, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons and entities, other than Defendants and their affiliates, who purchased or otherwise acquired publicly traded securities of UMC between October 28, 2015 and November 1, 2018, both dates inclusive (the Class Period), seeking to recover damages caused by Defendants violations of the federal securities laws and to pursue remedies under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the Exchange Act) and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, against the Company and certain of its senior officials. If you are a shareholder who purchased UMC securities during the class period, you have until May 13, 2019, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com. To discuss this action, contact Robert S. Willoughby at rswilloughby@pomlaw.com or 888.476.6529 (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 9980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased. [Click here to join this class action] UMC purports to engage in the research, development, and manufacture of products in the solar energy and light-emitting diode industries. On May 13, 2016, the Company announced that it had entered into a Dynamic Random-Access Memory (DRAM) Technology Cooperation Agreement with Fujian Jianhua Integrated Circuit Co. Ltd. (Fujian). Under the agreement, Fujian was to provide UMC with related equipment for its research and development, as well as service fees subject to the progress of the technology development. UMC was to develop DRAM related technologies for Fujian and deliver such development results to Fujian before May 12, 2021. The developed technologies were to be jointly owned by both parties. Story continues DRAM is a memory device product used in electronics to store information. DRAM is a technologically advanced commodity that is widely used in digital electronics, as well as leading-edge computing, consumer, networking, automotive, industrial, embedded, and mobile productions. At all relevant times, one of UMCs primary competitors has been Micron Technology, Inc. (Micron), a leading U.S. semiconductor company known for its development and production of DRAM products. Throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding UMCs business, operational and compliance policies. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) UMC conspired with Fujian to steal trade secrets from Micron relating to its research and development of DRAM; (ii) UMC hired former Micron employees for the purpose of stealing such information from Micron; (iii) the foregoing conduct placed UMC and certain of its employees at an increased risk of criminal and regulatory investigation by the U.S. government; and (iv) as a result, UMCs public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. On November 1, 2018, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) indicted UMC, Fujian, and Chen Zhengkun a.k.a. Stephen Chen (Chen), a former Micron employee hired by UMC, for conspiracy to commit economic espionage, conspiracy to commit theft of trade secrets, and economic espionage (receiving and possessing stolen trade secrets). The indictment stated that the companies conspired to steal trade secrets from Micron relating to its research and development of memory storage devices. According to the indictment, the conspiracy to commit economic espionage began in or around January 2016, the conspiracy to commit theft of trade secrets began in or about October 2015, and the economic espionage (receiving and possessing stolen trade secrets) began in or about February 2016. According to the DOJs indictment, Chen, a Taiwanese national, resigned as the President of Microns subsidiary, Micron Memory Taiwan Co., Ltd. (MMT), in July 2015. Thereafter, Chen began working for UMC as its Senior Vice President and Fabrication Director in Taiwan in September 2015. According to the indictment, Chen, as well as agents of UMC, later hired additional former employees of Micron who stole Micron trade secrets and, at the direction of UMC employees, used such trade secrets to enhance UMCs DRAM technologies. As news of UMCs indictment reached the market, UMCs ADS price fell by $0.19 per share, or nearly 10%, over the following two trading sessions to close at $1.71 per share on November 5, 2018. The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com A new Porsche 718 Cayman T is displayed at the 89th Geneva International Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland. Photo: Reuters/Denis Balibouse Porsche will have electrified more than half of its entire model range either with a plug-in hybrid or a fully battery-electric option by 2025, the company said Friday. The German automaker plans to electrify every model by 2030. One thing is clear: From 2030 onward, there probably wont be any vehicle model from Porsche without an electric variant, Lutz Meschke, deputy chairman of the executive board, said at the companys annual press conference on Friday. Porsche will not stop making internal combustion engine cars over the next decade, but has committed to investing more than 6bn (5.1bn, $6.8bn) into its electrification shift by 2022. The automaker stopped producing diesel vehicles in 2018. Since 2012, our workforce has more than doubled, and electromobility is another job engine, Porsche CEO Oliver Blume said. We are creating 1,500 new jobs for the Taycan alone. That stands in contrast to Porsches owner Volkswagen, which announced this week that it would need to cut thousands of jobs in Germany as making e-cars requires fewer workers than putting together an internal combustion engine car. READ MORE: Volkswagen says making electric cars will lead to job cuts The Taycan is set to launch at the end of this year and will be the first fully-electric car from Porsche. Expressions of interest in pre-ordering the Taycan have already shot past 20,000, the cars original production target. Porsche did not officially state what the new, increased production figure will be. Porsche announced this year that its bestselling Macan SUV, which sold over 86,000 globally in 2018, will also go electric. Porsche confirmed on Friday that the fully electric Cross Turismo SUV will be out starting in 2020. READ MORE: Porsche reveals its bestselling Macan SUV is going electric Qualcomm Incorporated QCOM recently received two symmetrically opposite court verdicts one from a U.S. federal judge and other from the Japan Fair Trade Commission. While the domestic verdict was against the company, the international ruling was in favor, evoking mixed response from management. The preliminary ruling by Judge Gonzalo Curiel of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California relates to non-payment of patent royalty rebate to the tune of $1 billion to Apple Inc. AAPL. In its lawsuit filed two years ago, Apple alleged that Qualcomm violated its payment obligations per the 2013 Business Cooperation and Patent Agreement. The contract mandated Qualcomm to pay rebate on the iPhone patent payments if Apple abstained from attacking its trade policies in court or with regulators. In reply, Qualcomm accused Apple of violating the agreement by encouraging other smartphone manufacturers to complain against it and fanning false propaganda to regulators relating to its trade policies. This allegedly compelled the Korean Fair Trade Commission to investigate the antitrust charges, due to which Qualcomm refused to make any further rebate payments. Eventually, the billions of dollars that Qualcomm received from contract factories that manufactured Apples iPhone for using its patented technology also dried up as the two were involved in a bitter patent battle. In view of these circumstances, Judge Curiel observed that Qualcomm was at fault and was obligated to pay $1 billion in rebate payments to Apple. The decision, however, is not final until the trial proceedings are over, starting from next month. Moreover, as Qualcomm reportedly owed more than $1 billion from contract factories that manufactured iPhones, the purported payments were likely to be offset. Meanwhile, Qualcomm had something to cheer about when the Japan Fair Trade Commission revoked its own 2009 cease-and-desist order pertaining to its licensed products in the country. Although the Tokyo High Court had issued a stay in 2010 against the order, thorough investigations and nine-year evidentiary proceedings involving 37 separate hearings inferred that Qualcomm's cross-licensing provisions did not violate Japanese antimonopoly law. This is reportedly the second such favorable verdict from antitrust regulators after the Taiwan Fair Trade Commission, and is likely to boost Qualcomms case against Apple. Moreover, that the cross-licensing program was deemed to be lawful by the regulators would strengthen its argument against the iPhone manufacturer. The stock has declined 7.5% on average in the past year while the industry rallied 2%. Story continues Qualcomm currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Better-ranked stocks in the industry include Harris Corporation HRS and Motorola Solutions, Inc. MSI, each carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Harris has a long-term earnings growth expectation of 8%. It delivered average positive earnings surprise of 2.9% in the trailing four quarters, beating estimates in each. Motorola has a long-term earnings growth expectation of 8%. It delivered average positive earnings surprise of 13.2% in the trailing four quarters, beating estimates on each occasion. Is Your Investment Advisor Fumbling Your Financial Future? See how you can more effectively safeguard your retirement with a new Special Report, 4 Warning Signs Your Investment Advisor Might Be Sabotaging Your Financial Future. Click to get it free >> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Harris Corporation (HRS) : Free Stock Analysis Report QUALCOMM Incorporated (QCOM) : Free Stock Analysis Report Motorola Solutions, Inc. (MSI) : Free Stock Analysis Report Apple Inc. (AAPL) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Police on Saturday warned the public anew on credit card theft as enterprising criminals continue operating in various posh hotel resorts and casino in Metro Manila. This after four members of a syndicate, believed to be responsible for using stolen credit cards and skimming devices, have been busted by elements of the National Capital Region Police Office. NCRPO operatives initially arrested 37-year-old Czarynah Datu who was caught in possession of a credit card used in fraudulent transaction at Resorts World Manila in Pasay City. Datus arrest was made after Martin Ramon Aragon, Fraud Management Unit Investigation Team of Banco de Oro Unibank Inc., lodged a complaint on March 13, saying the credit card under the name of one Jasmine Reymundo found in the suspects possession was used fraudulently. Several identification cards, including two government IDs also under the name of Reymundo, and a fake Philippine passport were also seized from Datus possession. The suspect admitted the crime and further revealed the source of credit cards by leading the authorities to the whereabouts of her cohorts, said NCRPO chief Guillermo Eleazar.Police follow-up operations conducted in Sampaloc, Manila and West Triangle in Quezon City resulted in the apprehension of Datus cohorts, identified as Paul Cabalza, 45; Eduardo Nera Jr., 41; and Teresita Caranglan, 61. Recovered from the suspects in separate police operations were several bank credit and debit cards under the name of various individuals, including Korean and Chinese nationals; visa cards; mobile gadgets; Louis Vuitton booklets; and skimming devices used in fraudulent transactions. Authorities warned the public that criminals can also easily capture credit and debit card information with small devices called skimmers. NCRPO deputy director for operations Chief Supt. Crizaldo Nieves reminded the public to be alert whenever their credit cards are being swiped in restaurants or in any establishments. The suspects are now detained at the NCRPO detention facility in Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan, Tagug City. PR N C2882C STMicroelectronics Hosts French "Nano2022" Program Launch at its Crolles Site ST one of the leaders of five-year French strategic program supporting R&D and First Industrial Deployment in microelectronics Nano2022 program part of the broader "Important Project of Common European Interest" (IPCEI) for Microelectronics spearheaded by France, Italy, Germany, and the United Kingdom Crolles, France, March 15, 2019 - STMicroelectronics (STM), a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications, hosted today the official launch of the French "Nano2022" program for the microelectronics industry. "Nano2022" was presented by French Minister of Economy Bruno Le Maire at the ST research, development and manufacturing site of Crolles, near Grenoble (France), in presence of representatives of national and local public authorities and of the French semiconductor industry. "Nano2022" is a five-year public-private strategic support program targeting not only research, development, and innovation (RDI), but also First Industrial Deployment (FID). Support to FID is a key enabler for semiconductor companies which, like ST, are also manufacturing part of their chips through innovative proprietary technologies, as it targets the ever-difficult step between prototypes and volume production. "Nano2022" will support the French R&D and manufacturing sites of ST: Crolles, Grenoble, Rennes, Rousset, and Tours. This program will support advances in key technologies: new generations of microcontrollers, microprocessors, and digital integrated circuits; power conversion technologies, including wide-bandgap materials, to optimize electric system performance; and new specialized imaging and 3D sensors. All of these technologies support key, high-growth applications across the four end-markets served by ST: the broad automotive and industrial markets, personal electronics including smartphones, and next-generation communication infrastructure. The program will also foster close cooperation with the French R&D ecosystem to which ST sites belong, with a broad range of partners - research and technology organizations, SMEs and startups, and large companies. In the same perspective, the broader IPCEI for Microelectronics, which involves France, Italy, Germany, and the United Kingdom also supports both RDI and FID. ST has worked with both French and Italian public authorities for one single integrated proposal. About STMicroelectronics ST is a global semiconductor leader delivering intelligent and energy-efficient products and solutions that power the electronics at the heart of everyday life. ST`s products are found everywhere today, and together with our customers, we are enabling smarter driving and smarter factories, cities and homes, along with the next generation of mobile and Internet of Things devices. Story continues By getting more from technology to get more from life, ST stands for life.augmented. In 2018, the Company`s net revenues were $9.66 billion, serving more than 100,000 customers worldwide. Further information can be found at www.st.com. For further information, please contact: INVESTOR RELATIONS: Celine Berthier Group VP, Investor Relations Tel: +41.22.929.58.12 celine.berthier@st.com MEDIA RELATIONS: Alexis Breton Corporate External Communications Tel: + 33 6 59 16 79 08 alexis.breton@st.com ST - Nano2022 launch- VA 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: STMicroelectronics via GlobeNewswire HUG#2238764 India is expected to overtake China as the largest renewable-energy market by 2020. There will be an urgent need for energy-storage solutions in India as solar and wind power grow to as much as 75 percent of new capacity. Battery storage deployments can reach 1,000 Gw by 2040. There are 19 Gw of storage globally today. Companies, including Elon Musk's Tesla, are in a position to build a huge battery-powered storage business. Tesla CEO Elon Musk has Twitter-teased a potential entrance to the Indian market for the electric vehicle maker in recent years. If the billionaire does ever bring his renewable-energy vision to India, he may want to lead with battery-based energy-storage solutions for the grid rather than electric cars. The Indian power market is undergoing a seismic shift. The country's fight against crippling pollution and the pressing need for clean power have energized its renewable-energy sector. The administration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made sustainable, clean electricity a key policy priority by setting an ambitious goal of producing 175 Gw of renewable energy by March 2022 , equivalent to 40 percent of the country's total power capacity. The world's third-largest energy consumer, after the U.S. and China, India has grown leaps and bounds in renewable energy production over the past few years, with new capacity being brought online by renewable sources surpassing new coal capacity for the first time in 2017. Last year, renewables accounted for 71 gigawatts of India's installed generating capacity, around 8 percent of India's overall electricity generation. As much as 74 percent of India's new power capacity addition in 2018 was renewables, led by solar power, which is projected to soar from 6 percent at present to 24 percent in a decade. Globally, India ranks fifth in terms of total renewable energy installed capacity, behind China, the U.K., Germany and the U.S., according to Climatescope 2018 report from Bloomberg New Energy Finance. Story continues With a population of 1.3 billion people, the South Asian economic nation is projected to overtake China as the largest growth market for renewable energy by 2020. India's energy consumption growth of 4.2 percent is faster than that of all major economies. India will be world's largest market for energy storage India 's renewable energy ambitions face a few hurdles, the most significant of which is storage. There is a wide gap between renewable energy production and available energy storage. In the absence of large-scale and efficient energy storage capabilities much of the excess energy being produced by solar farms or wind turbines is squandered. Storage solutions can ensure a reliable supply of energy to the nearest grid to meet peak energy demand or be transported to parts of the country prone to widespread power outages, as well as to millions of houses lacking grid connections. Ultimately, the energy storage gap will create an enormous market in India with attractive investment opportunities for both homegrown battery storage companies and global players such as Tesla TSLA , LG Chemical, Chinese electric battery and car company BYD which Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway BRK.A is an investor in and Daimler DAI-DE 's Mercedes-Benz Energy. India is easily the largest market opportunity for global energy storage companies, said Vivek Wadhwa, a distinguished fellow and professor at Carnegie Mellon University Engineering. While India is going flat out to produce solar and wind energy to meet its swelling energy demand, storage isn't as big a focus. That's because in a country where energy demand far outstrips supply, power production remains a more immediate priority. "Indian policy makers aren't seeing the need for storage yet because they are just playing catch up with the country's desperate need for energy," Wadhwa said, a vocal advocate for green energy whose views are frequently published in the mainstream Indian media. "You need to store energy only when you have excess." Energy storage is expected to take off in developed markets in 2019, with North America projected to see more than 500 megawatt hours (MWh) of batteries deployed in utility-scale solar plants this year, according to a new forecast from IHS Markit. It won't be long before India gets the storage shock. Wadhwa forecasts that energy storage will become "a real problem for India in the next couple of years, and then the market would greatly expand." A continued decline in renewable energy prices could well work in India's favor. The cost of variable renewables solar and wind energy has halved in India since the start of 2017, falling below grid parity. In a similar trend, the cost of battery storage has been dropping and is projected by the International Energy Agency (IEA ) to fall faster over the coming years, which will drive the battery deployment in the energy sector and improve grid supply and dispatchability. "Grid level storage, residential rooftop solar and storage, and even electric vehicles with their significant battery storage capacity will all play a material role in grid balancing and stabilization in any smart electricity grid system of the future," said Tim Buckley, director of energy finance studies at the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) in Sydney, Australia. A slew of factors make it unlikely that battery powerhouses like Tesla will make a beeline for the Indian market even with its renewable energy production growing so quickly. For one, Tesla is sharply focused on expanding its electric car manufacturing and much of its battery storage production is geared towards fulfilling that objective. While Tesla is ramping up energy storage, the supply constraints are expected to remain for some time. Tesla, whose utility-scale battery storage system in Australia sparked global interest in similar projects , simply can't make enough battery packs to meet the current demand. The resultant supply shortage pushes prices too high for cost-sensitive markets like India. "Demand [for Tesla battery storage] far outstrips its ability to supply, so it is getting a significant premium price for its product," Buckley said. He said that explains why Tesla has "zero presence in India." China is still in the lead Moreover, China, India's neighbor to the north, is regarded by foreign companies as a far more attractive market owing to the sheer scale of its industries. India may be on course to become the largest growth market for renewable energy but for now China remains the largest producer and consumer of renewable energy in the world, according to the International renewable Energy Agency . China has been hoovering up much of the interest and investments from foreign companies. "India is five to 10 years behind China," Buckley said. Wadhwa, who has communicated directly with Musk, has warned the Tesla CEO about focusing too much on China, where the electric car maker is now building its first overseas manufacturing operation. The Chinese government, he asserts, is only interested in foreign companies whose technology it wants to steal. "China is essentially closed to outsiders, India is open and in desperate need of these technologies," he said. Many companies have learned this the hard way and allegations of intellectual property theft in the technology arena are one of the major sticking points in a trade deal between the Trump administration and China. "Elon Musk will wake up to the problems with China as soon as the Chinese have learned everything they need and eaten his lunch," Wadhwa said. "I have told him that he needs to focus on India because the real opportunities are there." Tesla is working to increase energy storage supply. A new manufacturing line made by Tesla Grohmann (Grohmann is the name of a German company Tesla acquired in 2017 and still uses for its battery operations) is increasing production of Powerwall and Powerpack modules at its Gigafactory 1 in Arizona, Tesla said in its Q4 shareholder letter. Tesla said with a better supply of cells and new manufacturing equipment it is aiming to more than double energy storage deployments to over 2 gigawatts in 2019. Tesla declined to comment on its plans for India. India can't afford to wait too long. Experts say India would be better off developing its own energy storage ecosystem leveraging on indigenous capabilities and drawing on existing technologies from around the world. " India should develop its own industry and bring in foreign companies to partner and supplement it," Wadhwa said. "There are gigafactories [being] built all over the world which can provide India with the storage technologies it needs." Companies around the world from the US to Germany, Thailand, China and Australia are working on battery gigafactories . One recent report projects global battery storage deployments reaching close to 1,000 GW by 2040 from less than 19 GW in 2018, with $620 billion in investment over the next two decades. Buckley wants India to leverage the gains China and Germany have made in technology development (Buckley cited the example of Fluence, a joint venture between AES and Siemens) and have domestic players drive the energy storage development needs of India, because local companies know the Indian consumer, India's needs and India's policy frameworks. The Indian energy storage market is so young that any well-capitalized, major industrial player can move into this space, establish an industry leadership, and leverage the huge demand potential. "India is not late to this party, and it is going to be huge, so no better time than now to get started, independently or in conjunction with an existing world leader," Buckley said. India needs to back up its promises Foreign players remain wary of Indian regulations and skeptical about its lofty targets, many of which aren't enshrined in legislation . This includes Modi government's bold and aspirational goal of 100 percent EVs by 2030 , a target that was later dialled back to 30 percent. "This was not a formal policy backed up by rigorous analysis and detailed consultation between industry, state and central government bodies," Buckley said. "It was and remains a great aspirational target [and] corporations don't invest billions on the back of an aspirational target." Political resistance is to be expected. India will need to consider the potential negative impact of a clean energy transition on the country's employment market, said Sajal Ghosh, an energy economist at the Management Development Institute, near New Delhi. A lower dependence on coal-based power means significant job losses in both labor-intensive mining and its downstream industries, he said. "India, with world's fifth-largest coal reserves after the U.S., Russia, China and Australia, cannot ignore the role of domestic coal in supplying electricity at affordable price, which provides much-needed energy security and employment prospects, alongside grid stability." Coal-based power is not going away. India will need to perform a delicate balancing act negotiating a raft of economic, technological and regulatory issues to pull off its ambitious renewable plans or risk being judged as an overpromising and under-delivering laggard. Wadhwa said the increasingly favorable economics of renewable energy should be the biggest driver. "I don't see any reason why it can't do this as the cost of solar is dropping 15 percent to 20 percent every year, so this is a winning battle," he said. "India desperately needs solar and wind energies to replace fossil fuels and to save itself from destruction. New Delhi is already a gas chamber with its unbearable pollution." More From CNBC Blizzard near I-29 and state highway 28 in South Dakota on March 14, 2019. (Photo: South Dakota Highway Patrol) Blizzard near I-29 and state highway 28 in South Dakota on March 14, 2019. (Photo: South Dakota Highway Patrol) The blizzard that broke low pressure and wind records across the Great Plains on Wednesday and Thursday is finally fading as it exits the U.S., heading into eastern Canada. The storm only lasted for a couple of days, but memories of it will probably linger for years to come in the memories of everyone in its path. The heavy snow and ferociously high winds led to whiteout conditions, followed by a chain reaction of Interstate shutdowns, airport closures, automobile wrecks, power outages and at least one death. Looking Back The worst of the storm targeted eastern portions of Colorado and Wyoming on Wednesday, in addition to western sections of Nebraska where more than 12 inches of snow fell in some spots. Blowing and drifting snow resulted in snow banks several feet high. It got so bad that Colorado Governor Jared Polis sent the National Guard to help rescue drivers who were stranded on closed roads. These are a few snow/wind reports from Wednesday: Cheyenne Regional Airport: 14.0 inches/63 mph Scottsbluff-Western Nebraska Regional Airport: 12.0 inches/65 mph Denver International Airport: 7.1 inches/80 mph (all-time record gust) Another record wind gust, 96 mph, was reported at the Colorado Springs Municipal Airport. The storm "bombed out" over this region when the central pressure dropped 33 millibars in a 24-hour period, between 9:00 a.m. MDT on Tuesday and 9:00 a.m. MDT on Wednesday. This created the powerful winds, and so far the lowest pressure measured in the storm was 970.4 millibars in Lamar, Colorado. This is only 10 millibars away from the lowest pressure reading during the "Blizzard of 93" 960 millibars which also occurred in mid-March. Trouble Ahead Missouri River near Plattsmouth (just south of Omaha, Nebraska) as of 7:15 p.m. CDT, March 14, 2019; crested to record flood stage early in the evening. Dark purple line dotted with squares is the forecast. Missouri River near Plattsmouth (just south of Omaha, Nebraska) as of 7:15 p.m. CDT, March 14, 2019; crested to record flood stage early in the evening. Dark purple line dotted with squares is the forecast. Story continues Platte River near Leshara (just west of Omaha, Nebraska) as of 12:15 p.m. CDT, March 14, 2019; crested to record flood stage early in the evening. Dark purple line dotted with squares is the forecast. Platte River near Leshara (just west of Omaha, Nebraska) as of 12:15 p.m. CDT, March 14, 2019; crested to record flood stage early in the evening. Dark purple line dotted with squares is the forecast. On the other side of the storm, heavy rain and snowmelt caused rivers and creeks to rise rapidly across the Midwest on Thursday. The Platte and Missouri Rivers reached record flood levels in the Omaha, Nebraska area, washing out roads and at least one bridge. Areas along the Elkhorn River are also experiencing historic flooding. Major flooding in Columbus, Nebraska on March 14, 2019. Major flooding in Columbus, Nebraska on March 14, 2019. Near the town of Columbus, flood water covered streets and has risen almost to the tops of road signs. In Nickerson, the local Volunteer Fire Department performed two rescues of people from flooding along Maple Creek on Thursday. Finally, a tractor-trailer got stuck in flood water near Bell Creek in Arlington. Neighborhoods along the North Platte River near I-80 are also flooded. Reports of flooding, as well as mud and debris across roads, have come in from Iowa and Minnesota, too. According to state Departments of Transportation, many secondary roads are closed in parts of Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, and Nebraska because of flooding. Some rivers and creeks may not recede below flood their flood stages until the middle of next week, or later. In the coming days, the risk of flooding may move downstream to the Kansas City and St. Louis areas, closing more roads and delaying barge traffic. Submerged truck by Bell Creek flooding in Arlington. @3NewsNowOmaha pic.twitter.com/Zto5hMi3Rn Wade Lux (@WadeLux) March 14, 2019 Nobody, including truckers, should try to drive or walk through flood waters. They may be deeper than you think, and the road could be washed out underneath. For the latest flood alerts from the National Weather Service, check out this interactive map. Please, be careful out there! Want more content like this? Click here to Subscribe Permalink See more from Benzinga 2019 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. FILE PHOTO: Security staff stand next to a Visa logo at Murtala Muhammed International Airport before the arrival of the Nigerian Womens Bobsled Team, in Lagos FILE PHOTO: Security staff stand next to a Visa logo at Murtala Muhammed International Airport before the arrival of the Nigerian Womens Bobsled Team, in Lagos, Nigeria, as part of preparations ahead of the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games, February 1, 2018. REUTERS/Afolabi Sotunde By Jeff Mason WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States is considering imposing financial sanctions that could prohibit Visa Inc , Mastercard Inc and other financial institutions from processing transactions in Venezuela, a senior Trump administration official said on Thursday. The move, which has not been finalized, would represent another step in tightening the financial noose on the government of President Nicolas Maduro and his supporters. The sanctions would be targeted at the elite and groups loyal to Maduro, including members of the military, armed gangs and Cubans operating in Venezuela, while aiming to spare ordinary Venezuelans. "The purpose of these sanctions is to continue to deprive the illegitimate Maduro regime of access to funds and deny their ability to continue stealing from the Venezuelan people," the official said. Venezuela's information ministry did not immediately reply to a request for comment. U.S. President Donald Trump's administration has hit Maduro's government, his political allies and Venezuela's state-owned oil company PDVSA with a series of sanctions since recognizing opposition leader Juan Guaido as the country's interim president at the end of January. It has threatened further measures. The potential financial sanctions are modeled after similar ones imposed by the Trump's administration on Iran, North Korea, Syria and, to a lesser extent, Russia, the official said. The sanctions would aim broadly to block state-owned financial institutions' access to the international financial system, including credit card providers as well as SWIFT, the Belgium-based financial messaging service. Specific financial institutions considered to be complicit in propping up Maduro or the whole financial sector in Venezuela could be targeted in the sanctions. The United States would use its authorities to exempt everyday Venezuelans from making transactions to buy food and medicine. Story continues The sweeping financial sanctions against PDVSA, aimed at curbing crude exports to the United States and driving Maduro from power, were the strongest measures yet against Venezuela's vital oil sector. U.S. companies doing oil business with Venezuela have been ordered to divert payments to special blocked accounts. Senior Trump administration officials have warned in recent weeks that Venezuelan banks or international financial institutions could face U.S. sanctions for helping Maduro to steal or hide Venezuelan state assets. The U.S. Treasury Department earlier this week imposed sanctions on Moscow-based Evrofinance Mosnarbank, jointly owned by Russian and Venezuelan state companies, accusing it of helping PDVSA evade U.S. financial restrictions. More than 50 other countries have joined the United States in recognizing Guaido. The Trump administration has also urged other countries to target Venezuela with similar tough banking and oil sector sanctions but few have followed suit. (Additional reporting by Matt Spetalnick; editing by Mary Milliken and Marguerita Choy) It has been about a month since the last earnings report for Applied Materials (AMAT). Shares have lost about 0.8% in that time frame, underperforming the S&P 500. Will the recent negative trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Applied Materials due for a breakout? Before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late, let's take a quick look at its most recent earnings report in order to get a better handle on the important catalysts. Applied Materials Beats on Q1 Earnings and Revenues Applied Materials Inc. reported robust fiscal first-quarter 2019 results, with both the top and bottom lines surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate. The companys pro-forma earnings per share of 81 cents beat the consensus mark by a couple of cents and came in within the guided range of 75-83 cents. However, earnings were down 23.6% year over year and 16.5% sequentially. Revenues of $3.75 billion surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 0.95% and were within the guided range of $3.56-$3.86 billion. However, revenues decreased 6.5% sequentially and 10.7% year over year. Despite strong fiscal first-quarter results, its share price declined 1.99% due to weaker-than-expected revenue guidance provided by management. Also, shares have lost 25.9% in the past year compared with its industrys decline of 8.7%. Management expects the industry spending on manufacturing equipment to be lower in 2019 compared with 2018, citing a pullback on memory chips spending and macroeconomic conditions. A slowing smartphone market, especially in China, and its impact on chip demand remains a concern. Notably, the company has attained considerable success in expanding beyond semiconductors, particularly in display. Mobile OLEDs and large screen televisions are opening new market opportunities for Applied Materials. The company sees significant opportunities from emerging trends on the semiconductor as well as display fronts such as artificial intelligence, big data, cloud infrastructure, Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality and smart vehicles. Story continues We believe that Applied Materials is in a great position to grow sustainably and profitably, based on its strong pipeline of enabling technologies, supported by expanding opportunities on the semiconductor, service and display fronts. Lets delve deeper into the numbers. Revenues by Segment The Semiconductor Systems Group (SSG) contributed 60.4% to its total revenues, reflecting a decrease of 1.8% sequentially and 20.5% year over year. Applied Global Services (AGS) was the second-largest contributor with 25.6% revenue share. The segments revenues decreased 1.5% sequentially but increased 9.2% from the prior-year quarter. The Display segment, which contributed14% to the total revenues,was down 27.8% sequentially but up 14.4% from the year-ago level. Revenues by Geography China contributed 26%, Japan and Taiwan 17% each, Korea 15%, United States 12%, Europe 8% and Southeast Asia 4% to the total revenues. Japan and China declined on a sequential basis, while Korea and Taiwan deteriorated from the year-ago quarter. Southeast Asia declined both on a sequential as well as year-over-year basis. Operating Results Pro-forma gross margin was 44.6%, down 260 basis points (bps) from the year-ago quarter. Applied Materials operating expenses of $757 million increased 4.4% from the year-ago quarter. Operating margin of 24.6% decreased 550 bps year over year. Balance Sheet At the end of fiscal first quarter, inventories decreased to $3.7 billion from $3.72 billion in the last reported quarter. Accounts receivables decreased to $2.44 billion from $2.57 billion in fiscal fourth-quarter 2018. Cash and cash equivalent balance was $3.19 billion compared with $4.03 billion in the last reported quarter. The company returned $750 million and $192 million through stock repurchases and cash dividends, respectively. Guidance Applied Materials provided guidance for the second quarter of fiscal 2019. Revenues are expected between $3.33 billion and $3.63 billion. Non-GAAP EPS is expected in the range of 62-70 cents. How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then? Fresh estimates followed a downward path over the past two months. The consensus estimate has shifted -15.52% due to these changes. VGM Scores Currently, Applied Materials has a subpar Growth Score of D, a grade with the same score on the momentum front. However, the stock was allocated a grade of B on the value side, putting it in the second quintile for this investment strategy. Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of D. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in. Outlook Applied Materials has a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). We expect a below average return from the stock in the next few months. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Applied Materials, Inc. (AMAT) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research (Bloomberg) -- Facebook Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg has had a very bad week, even in the context of a very bad year. The week of bad news actually started March 8 with a proposal from U.S. senator and presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren to break up the company. Then there was the longest-ever outage of Facebooks social network and services, which almost overshadowed news of a criminal investigation into its data agreements with other companies. Facebooks technical glitch was resolved just in time for it to post the departure of two key executives, including the one closely linked with the companys most iconic product. But the ultimate blow came on Friday with the massacre of 50 people in New Zealand, streamed live on Facebook. Hedge funds who were previously complacent about the recent negative headlines are raising eyebrows on the news overnight, Lynx Equity Strategies analyst Jahanara Nissar wrote in a note. The departure of two top executives also was concerning -- especially given that the conflict was over strategy. The snowball of bad news is catching up with the company. The shares had their worst day in more than two months Friday, falling 2.5 percent to close at $165.98. The weekend didnt offer much respite. Facebook said it managed to prevent 1.2 million uploads of the massacre video in the first 24 hours, but 300,000 versions made it to the platform before being removed. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said she wants talks with Facebook on the issue of live streaming. AirAsia Group Bhd Chief Executive Officer Tony Fernandes, one of Asias best known executives, said Sunday he shut his account with 670,000 followers because of the amount of hate on social media. Acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney said on CBSs Face the Nation that the question is how do you stop these crazy people who are willing to go on live TV and stream the murder of people. He said Donald Trump is no more to blame from what happened in New Zealand than Mark Zuckerberg. Story continues It might be time to force social-media providers to delay live broadcasting or streaming, Tom Bossert, former homeland security adviser for President Donald Trump, said on ABCs This Week on Sunday. Itll require some time and money, but I think its something that we should consider, Bossert said. Jeh Johnson, former Homeland Security secretary under President Barack Obama, said on ABC that can be done but government must be careful about regulating speech. Social media and internet service providers must be more vigilant about self-regulating hate speech content that violates their terms of service, he said. Facing Scrutiny Negative sentiment toward Facebook, as measured in tweets on Twitter, rose to the highest in almost eight months on Thursday. While sentiment can rise and fall with the thousands of daily tweets about the company, Facebook hadnt seen that many negative comments since July, the day after disappointing revenue and user growth figures prompted the stocks biggest-ever selloff. Warrens proposition reflects a new, troubling paradigm for Facebook: in growing numbers, consumers, lawmakers and investors are asking whether the company founded in Zuckerbergs Harvard University dorm room in 2004 is doing more harm than good. The complaints are growing louder that Facebook has done a poor job of safeguarding data or protecting users from the spread of hate speech, disinformation and live footage of violent events. Maybe, pundits were wondering aloud, its time for regulators and politicians to step in. And that was before the tragedy in Christchurch, New Zealand, which alone would have been enough to prompt soul searching in any CEO. For Zuckerberg, it couldnt have come at a worse time. Days after Warren unveiled her breakup plan, Facebook pulled her ads on the platform for the proposal. It wasnt a good look for Zuckerbergs defense of the social network as a place for public debate and people of all views. Facebook said Warrens ads violated company policy against the use of the corporate logo, but in the interest of allowing robust debate, we are restoring the ads. Double Crisis By Wednesday, Facebook was facing two new crises. Beginning about 11:15 a.m. New York time, Facebooks apps and sites from the news feed to Instagram and WhatsApp started going down around the world. The problems people experienced varied, from slow load times for pages to seeing no content at all or trouble sending messages. The outage continued into Thursday afternoon, the longest time Facebooks properties have been recorded as offline since 2012. Facebook said the problem was a result of a shift in the setup of its computer servers. We are very sorry for the inconvenience and we appreciate everyones patience, the company said. Just as concern over the outage was reaching its peak, the company was beset by news that an investigation by the U.S. Justice Department was broadening to include a federal grand jury in New York, a person familiar with the matter told Bloomberg News. The grand jury has subpoenaed records from at least two smartphone makers and other electronic devices that had partnerships with Facebook, the New York Times reported, citing unidentified people familiar with the requests. As weve said before, we are cooperating with investigators, Facebook said. The company is facing ongoing probes around the world into alleged privacy violations revealed last year stemming from its relationship with Cambridge Analytica, a political consultancy that obtained the data of millions of the sites users without their consent. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission said last month it was creating a task force to look into possible anticompetitive conduct by Facebook, Alphabet Inc.s Google and other technology companies and several state attorneys general also are probing Facebooks privacy practices. Weve provided public testimony, answered questions, and pledged that we will continue to do so, Facebook said. Partly in reaction to the pressure Facebook has been under to change how it handles user privacy, rein in fake news and monitor offensive or violent content, Zuckerberg recently announced a pivot in product development to focus on private, ephemeral and encrypted communication. It was a striking change for a company that built its business on open sharing. And likely prompted the departure of one of Facebooks top executives. Chris Cox, who had worked at the company for 13 years, announced he was leaving in a Facebook post on Thursday. Cox had helped invent and develop the news feed, the main channel for personalized life updates for more than 2 billion people -- essentially the algorithm-based editor-in-chief of users digital lives. Coxs departing post alluded to a different view than Zuckerbergs about Facebooks future. We are turning a new page in our product direction, Cox said. This will be a big project and we will need leaders who are excited to see the new direction through. Chris Daniels, who ran WhatsApp, is also leaving Facebook, the company said. But none of those issues will test Zuckerberg quite like the tragedy in New Zealand. The slaughter in two mosques came after someone appearing to be the gunman posted links to a lengthy racist manifesto on the site and a forum known for extremist views. His first-person view of the carnage as he wreaked it immediately was spread across the internet. Facebook said it quickly removed both the shooters Facebook and Instagram accounts, and was taking down any mentions of praise or support for the shooting. But this was exactly the kind of event Zuckerberg has pledged to work harder to avoid. The company has hired thousands of people to manually screen offensive and dangerous content and plowed money into technology like artificial intelligence to more efficiently analyze and filter live video content. And yet. Read more about how Facebook is struggling to clean up toxic content. Zuckerberg, 34, has acknowledged the difficulty of policing content from the 2.7 billion users that power Facebooks wildly profitable advertising engine. The companys business model depends on showing people posts theyre most apt to have an emotional reaction to, which often has the side effect of amplifying fake news and extremism. Mary Anne Franks, a professor of law at the University of Miami, said there is simply no responsible way to moderate a true live streaming service. Facebook has always known the service has the potential to encourage and amplify the worst of humanity, and it must confront the fact that it has blood on its hands, she said. (Updates with comments from Mulvaney, Bossert and Johnson from sixth paragraph.) --With assistance from Kamaron Leach, Sarah Frier and Mark Niquette. To contact the reporter on this story: Molly Schuetz in New York at mschuetz9@bloomberg.net To contact the editors responsible for this story: Jillian Ward at jward56@bloomberg.net, Tony Czuczka For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. Some 60,000 caregivers are needed in Japan, according to the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration. POEA Administrator Bernard Olalia said private recruitment agencies will be processing the employment of qualified foreign workers under the new specialized skilled worker visa of Japan starting April 1. He added the new visa will have two classifications: one for semi-skilled workers such as caregivers, with a five-year contract, and one for highly-skilled workers that will have the chance to acquire an immigrant status after contract, also for five years. Olalia said the workers are wanted in health institutions in the host country. Mostly in elderly care institutions since they have many senior citizens, he said in a television interview. Olalia also reminded the applicants to wait for their advice regarding the new visa since it is only set to be signed on March 19.The POEA also warned the public not to fall for recruitment agencies that are claiming that they are accepting applicants for the new visa. Meanwhile, Olalia said Japan is also in need of 300 foreign workers for different sectors. Among the job vacancies are in the food service industry, construction, agriculture, manufacture of food and beverage, accommodation industry, building cleaning management, machine parts and tooling, industrial machinery, fisheries and aquaculture, electric, electronics and information, aviation industry, automobile repair and maintenance, shipbuilding and ship machinery. Olalia noted that while construction is included on the list, the deployment of workers in the said sector will be limited since the infrastructure program in the country will also need laborers. We will be coming out with a regulation limiting the deployment of construction workers, he added. The US State Departments recent 2018 Human Rights Report on the Philippines is objective and balanced as it cited developments in the governments campaign against illegal drugs, Malacanang said Saturday. The level of objectivity and balance of the 44-page US State Departments 2018 Human Rights Report on the Philippines reflects the US governments appreciation of the Duterte administrations governance agenda anchored on fighting corruption, criminality and illegal drugs, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement. Panelo said while detractors and critics of the administration are focusing on the negative aspects of the report, the assessment showed that the US respects the deeper challenges confronting the government. While the political opposition and detractors of the President, including some of those in the mainstream media, would dwell on what they consider as negative observations and milk the same for their political purposes, we prefer to see the glass half-full and focus on the positive aspects of the report. We urge the public to read the report in its entirety that they may not be deceived by intended negative and false commentaries, he said. The report mentions the developments in the Duterte administrations anti-drug campaign. Its assessment is respectful of the governments deeper challenges, e.g. deaths of many law enforcement officers during operations, even as accountability of those from the same ranks is guaranteed through investigations of any actions taken outside the rule of law, he added. Panelo said the Palace notes that there may be accounts of abuse on the part of its law enforcers but reiterated the Philippine governments adherence and commitment to human rights. He assured that these cases are isolated and are being addressed and those responsible will be made accountable. While the report also cites the usual criticisms against the administration, we reiterate that the President and this government have never sponsored any form of violation of human rights nor will they tolerate them, he said.Panelo, also Chief Presidential legal counsel, said the report is also sympathetic to the governments challenges in the peace process,,particularly with Muslim separatists, communist insurgents, and terrorist groups that continue to attack government security forces and civilian. He also cited the reports mention of the milestones in addressing concerns of vulnerable groups, such as the governments use of its 16 rehabilitation centers around the country to assist about 1,650 children in conflict with the law, as well as its mobilization of youth centers managed by local governments to provide protection, care, training and rehabilitation for these children. Panelo said freedom of expression is practiced in the country, contrary to criticisms by various groups. The observance of the freedom of expression in this country is such that fabricated portrayals on the war on drugs find print and aired repeatedly reaching the outside world some of which recklessly and responsibly believe them without the benefit of validation, he said. Panelo noted that the report also acknowledged the governments effort to promote the speedy disposition of court cases. The US State Department has been producing annual human rights reports of all countries receiving assistance and United Nations member states since 1977. The 28-year-old Australian man suspected of carrying out mass shootings at two mosques in New Zealand made his first court appearance, wearing handcuffs and a white prison suit as he waited to hear the charges against him. Brenton Tarrant on March 16 flashed what many consider to be a white power gesture -- an upside-down OK sign -- as he entered the courtroom in the city of Christchurch. Tarrant showed no emotion as one murder charge was read against him. The judge said "it was reasonable to assume" further murder charges would follow. The suspect did not request bail and was ordered to be held until his next court appearance, scheduled for April 5. New Zealand was in mourning on March 16, a day after 49 people were killed and nearly 40 more were wounded at two mosques in Christchurch in an attack that Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern called one of the country's "darkest days." The gunman, believed to be a white supremacist, live-streamed the killing spree from a head-mounted camera and posted a manifesto that included anti-Muslim rants. The man, armed with at least five guns, burst into the Masjid Al Noor Mosque in central Christchurch and opened fire during midday prayers. It is believed he fled and then drove to the Linwood Masjid Mosque, shooting and killing additional people. "Those injured range from young children to the elderly. They include men, women, and children and they were among those who had been both killed and injured," Prime Minister Ardern said. Police said the alleged shooter was arrested about 36 minutes later in a car that was carrying improvised explosive devices. Two other people are also being detained in connection with the shootings, but details have not been released about what ties they might have to the massacres. An imam who was leading prayers at the Linwood Mosque when the gunman burst in and opened fire said on March 16 that the Muslim community's love for New Zealand was not shaken by the tragedy. "We still love this country," said Ibrahim Abdul Halim. The imam vowed that extremists would "never ever touch our confidence." With reporting by AFP, AP, Reuters, and dpa The United Nations Security Council adopted a temporary six-month rollover of the UN mission in Afghanistan after a spat between the United States and China prevented a full resolution. Council diplomats on March 15 said the United States objected to language in a resolution that urged strengthened regional economic cooperation involving Afghanistan, including through the "Belt and Road" initiative linking China to Europe, Africa, and other parts of Asia. The full-year resolution in 2018 included the language, and the project was also mentioned in 2016 and 2017 resolutions. Beijings Belt and Road Initiative, which includes massive projects such as airports and roads, has raised concerns by some in the West about Chinese expansionism. U.S. Vice President Mike Pence last year criticized China's global infrastructure drive, saying many of the projects are low quality and also saddle developing countries with loans they cannot afford. Jonathan Cohen, the U.S. acting ambassador, told the Security Council that "China held the resolution hostage, and insisted on making it about Chinese national political priorities rather than the people of Afghanistan." He added that Beijing's infrastructure-investment effort had "known problems s with corruption, debt distress, environmental damage, and lack of transparency." Chinas deputy ambassador, Wu Haitao, told the council that Cohen's comments were "at variance with facts and fraught with prejudice." "This is an initiative of economic cooperation aimed at achieving common development and prosperity. It has nothing to do with geopolitics," Wu said. With the disagreement, the Security Council was forced to adopt the temporary rollover of the UN mission there for six months instead of a year. A U.S.-led coalition has been in Afghanistan since 2001 supporting the government in Kabul against Taliban, Al-Qaeda, and other militant groups. With reporting by AP and AFP Yes, I found a better job Yes, but I'm still looking for a new job Yes, I retired Yes, I started my own business No, I like my current job No, but I'm currently looking for a new job Vote View Results The Bureau of Immigration has asked the Department of Justice to conduct an investigation against nine members of the BI-Travel Control and Enforcement Unit assigned at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport for allegedly conniving with human trafficking syndicate victimizing Filipino jobseekers wanting to work abroad. The move was made after the Department of Foreign Affairs complains on the rising number of undocumented Filipino workers in the Middle East who managed to slip out of the NAIA with fictitious travel documents. Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente requested Justice Secretary Menardo Guevara to probe the 9 BI-TCEU who allegedly connived with human trafficking syndicate to allow Filipino workers to leave the NAIA even without proper working visas. The BI, however, declined to name the nine TCEU officers pending the outcome of the investigation. They will, however, be afforded due process during the investigation. But we will make sure they cannot influence the investigation, according to the BI. The Office of the Commissioner will provide the names of the TCEU officers who might be involved in the racket at the NAIA so that the DOJ can begin its formal investigation.According to the DFA, there are hundreds of undocumented Filipino workers in the Middle East, but they are having difficulty determining their exact number because usually enter the Middle East countries using tourist visas. Trafficking syndicates have allegedly been luring victims by offering to shoulder their travel to the Middle East, most of them to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia where high-paying jobs are supposedly waiting for them. Victims then enter the Middle East countries using tourist visas and are made to work without pay supposedly as part of their training, the DFA said. Based on the figures of the DFA, about 700 Filipino in the Middle East countries were repatriated for illegal working there. Philippine authorities continue to process the repatriation of other distressed OFWs in the Middle East countries. DENVER Coloradans want to eliminate the number of murders, mass shootings and suicides committed with firearms. Where they differ is how to accomplish that, bringing out emotional arguments Friday during a state Senate committee hearing on what is known as a red flag bill that would allow a family member or law enforcement official to petition a court for a temporary extreme risk protection order if they can show a person poses a significant risk to themselves or others by owning a gun. The bill, which has passed the state House, was approved by the Senate State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee Friday along party lines. Before majority Democrats on the committee approved it, witnesses sought to sway lawmakers with stories of loved ones lost to gun violence and suicide, or their fears that the law would be abused and deprive them of their constitutional right to own firearms. Judy Amabile said she and her husband knew their son, who had a history of mental illness, shouldnt own a gun and once begged a gun shop owner not to sell him one. Two days later our son was hospitalized after a standoff with police, she said. Every day we wonder what could have happened and when he might try again to buy a gun. Theres nothing stopping him. Others recalled the death of Douglas County Deputy Zack Parrish, 29, who was killed Jan. 1, 2018, after he and other deputies were ambushed in Highlands Ranch as they sought to help a man in the depths of a mental health crisis. Sen. Lois Court, D-Denver, co-sponsor of House bill 1117 the bill along with Sen. Brittany Pettersen, D-Lakewood, said the proposed measure could prevent tragic deaths like Parrishs in the future. Parrishs former boss, Sheriff Tony Spurlock agreed. We have a crisis in this country of mental health issues, a crisis where people have been left to take care of themselves and the severely mentally ill cannot do that, Spurlock said. Larimer County Sheriff Justin Smith acknowledged the countrys mental health crisis, but said confiscating guns is the wrong solution. Spurlock disputed claims that the proposed law violated constitutional rights, saying due process is protected by requiring that a judge approve an extreme risk protection order. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser, who also testified in support of the bill, reiterated that point and noted that the right to bear arms is not absolute in cases where lives are at risk. After the initial order is issued, the bill would require a second hearing within 14 days where either law enforcement officials or family members must show clear and convincing evidence that the person remains a danger. The weapons could then be held for up to 364 days while the owner seeks mental health treatment, which could be court ordered under the bill. Before the weapons could be returned, the person would have to show they are no longer a danger. The measure goes to the Senate Appropriations Committee. Jeffrey and Gabby Whitehead moved to eastern El Paso County nine months ago with dreams of starting a ranch. They were remodeling their 56-foot mobile home with new appliances and flooring. It would be where they raised their two children, and a third on the way, a daughter due July 4. They never even got to use their new stove. With a blizzard approaching, the Whiteheads left for a doctors appointment Wednesday. Shes pregnant, so we were getting her checked out and couldnt make it back home because of the storm, Whitehead said Friday. A neighbor intercepted them before they could reach their property on Edison Road south of Shear Road. He wanted to know if the Whiteheads knew what awaited them. Their home was gone, a pile of rubble in its place. They were stunned. I dont know how it blew so far away, Jeffrey Whitehead said. The weight of the frame alone is about 4,000 pounds, and it threw it that far. They live with their 9-year-old daughter, 17-year-old son and four dogs. They have two recreational vehicles on their property, both of which were undamaged. The crazy thing is those (RVs) dont weigh anything, and they didnt move at all, and this thing was tied down, he said. The straps, they just ripped out and (got) tore out. Their son lives in one of the RVs. Before leaving for the doctors appointment, the Whiteheads put their dogs in the other RV to protect them from the snow and hurricane-force winds that were expected. Their home wasnt insured, because it still needed to be inspected, Jeffrey Whitehead said. They had an inspection set for a week after the storm hit. Insurance isnt going to help us at all with this because we had to have it inspected before we could move in, and they wont insure you until its been inspected, he said. Theres a lot they have to figure out. It took out our spigot for the water, so I dont know if I even have water, he said. In the meantime, theyve been staying with family in the area. The Whiteheads neighbors, Carla and Eddie Anderson, started a GoFundMe for the family. Our good friends just bought their home and lost everything in the blizzard of 2019, the appeal says. The fundraising page, which had raised more than $900 Friday evening, can be found at gofundme.com/blizzard-of-2019-took-their-home. Northern and eastern El Paso County felt the full fury of the storm, which moved into the region about midday Wednesday with winds of nearly 100 mph and blowing snow that reduced visibility to inches. Schools were closed for days, along with major highways, including Interstate 25. Hundreds of travelers were trapped on the interstate awaiting its reopening, and thousands of residents were left in the dark by power outages. Some Mountain View Electric Association customers were still without power Friday. Power was expected to be restored in Black Forest by the end of Friday. Crews repaired outages in Monument and Ellicott on Thursday and were working to replace 36 downed poles and power lines in Yoder. The company hoped to have power back by Saturday. More than 52,000 Colorado Springs Utilities customers were without power Wednesday or Thursday. By Friday morning, only 169 people did not have service, Utilities said in a tweet. The Gazettes Liz Forster contributed to this report. A 46-year-old man has been arrested in the fatal shooting Tuesday of Nicholas Laduke, 37, at a northeast Colorado Springs apartment complex, police said. Andrew Firkins Jr. of Colorado Springs is accused of first-degree murder and remained in El Paso County jail Friday without bond, court records showed. The shooting was reported about 8:30 p.m. inside an apartment in the 4600 block of Winewood Village Drive, police said. Laduke's death is the city's third homicide this year, compared to six at this time last year. RELATED COVERAGE: Stuck on a six-lane parking lot for 12 hours, Margaret Radford couldnt even force her drivers door open against howling winds at times on Wednesday. Radford was one of hundreds of people stranded on Woodmen Road after a crash blocked traffic just as a blizzard packing nearly 100 mph winds roared in. A former Colorado Springs city councilwoman and utilities employee used to disasters, Radford was taken by surprise. I have never seen a storm go from nonexistent to blinding white in moments, she said. It did that. From Monument Hill to the eastern plains, police, firefighters and the Colorado National Guard were still at work Thursday rescuing drivers caught in the storm and clearing abandoned cars left frozen to highways. An El Paso County Sheriffs Office spokeswoman said scores of people were still stuck a full 24 hours after the storm slammed the Pikes Peak region. Last I heard we still had about 150 people out there, Jacqueline Kirby said. Radford, like so many others Wednesday, thought she could beat the storm, leaving her Falcon home for a quick couple of hours downtown. Balmy temperatures and raindrops gave a false sense of security, she admitted. I want it highly noted that I made a stupid mistake, she said. She got an early start and was headed home on Woodmen by 9:30 a.m. With a four-wheel-drive Subaru, snacks, water and a half tank of fuel, the drive to the northeastern suburb would be easy, even if traffic was crawling, Radford thought. Then it was all brake lights, she said. It was just before 10 a.m. when the first big wind gusts were measured at 51 mph at Colorado Springs Airport. Raindrops turned to big flakes, then to sandlike crystals. Radford was just east of Marksheffel when she was caught in the backup behind a crash. In just a few minutes, her view went from taillights to pure white. I couldnt see anything, she said. Forecasters called the storm a bomb cyclone a winter storm with a hurricane twist. Barometric pressure dropped 50 points in the Pikes Peak region as the storm passed. It hit its lowest, 976 mb, right as Radford saw brake lights. Sheriffs Office Lt. Bill Huffor said deputies spent more than a day warning drivers about the storm. But no matter how many tweets, radio broadcasts and Facebook posts the agency puts out, a singular truth remains. Anytime you have a natural weather emergency, it tends to catch people off-guard no matter how much warning we give, Huffor said. The National Weather Service put El Paso County under a blizzard warning a full day before the weather hit, but this storm was especially deceptive. Wednesday morning dawned with temperatures hanging near 50 degrees in Colorado Springs with a light rain that made the Pikes Peak region feel more like Seattle. Most days see the temperatures rise with the sun; Wednesday saw the mercury plunge, hitting freezing on Woodmen Road just as Radford came to a stop. With gridlocked traffic on her left and right, she was trapped. There was nowhere to go, she said. I couldnt get off. She called her husband Bill, a Gazette editor who decided to ride out the storm at home. Bill wrote an email to his colleagues downtown, describing the ferocity of the storm. Visibility is pretty much nonexistent on my property south of Falcon, he said. I assume our barn is still there but cant see it. A few miles from home, Margaret Radford couldnt see more than a few feet and could barely hear the guy in the minivan in the next lane when they rolled their windows down for a few shouted snippets amid the howling wind. She was dressed for the weather, with a hat, gloves and heavy coat. She ran her car enough to keep warm, but rationed her gasoline for the long wait. Her emergency gear seemed plentiful before the weather closed in. But after a few hours of waiting, she worried. Not enough, she said. You never have enough. The sun was down before there were hopeful signs. The snow was relenting. Around dusk, I started to see some activity of rescue vehicles, she said. Radford watched rescuers help those who were worse off, including a family with a baby wrapped in what appeared to be a thin blanket. There were a lot of people who really needed help, she said. As it got darker and colder, Radford regretted a forgotten decision that put her emergency kit in the back of her iced-over station wagon. There was no easy way to get to the flashlight and other gear through the drifts and ice that surrounded the Subaru. Help arrived as emergency workers cleared cars from Woodmen. Traffic started moving, and Radford joined in after freeing her car from drifts that piled up around it. But her journey came to a quick halt. As soon as I was on my way, I went right into the ditch, she said. The road, the median and the ditch were impossible to distinguish. It got worse as she waited in her now-stuck car. The gas tank ran dry. Then the battery died. She used the last few minutes of power on her cellphone to flag down passing drivers using its flashlight accessory. After 12 hours in the storm, her salvation arrived in a pickup. An airman from Peterson Air Force Base had hit the road to help his neighbors and found Radford. She only caught his first name, Mike. Radford piled into the good Samaritans truck and waited as he stopped to help others stuck on Woodmen. He eventually dropped her off with two more good Samaritans, Utilities workers Mike Myers and Keith Riley. They had spent the day helping rescue stranded drivers and picked up Radford as they ended their shift. Radford said shes humbled by her co-workers who spent the day fixing downed wires and helping those caught by the storm, like Myers and Riley. It brings me to tears when I think about the men and women who keep our lights on and keep our water running, she said. And Radford said shell never underestimate Colorados wild weather again. It went from virtually nothing to Armageddon in about 10 minutes and 10 miles, she said. I have never seen this happen. Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles on Saturday urged Leyte mayors to reactivate their local inter-agency committees to ensure the successful turnover of Yolanda resettlement housing projects that remained unfinished over five years after Typhoon Yolanda struck the area in November 2013. Speaking to 42 mayors at the National Economic and Development Authority Region 8 Office in the Government Center in Palo, Leyte, the Palace official said that data showed that a substantial number of houses for affected families were unfinished while there were completed housing projects had yet to be occupied.We have to address this by reactivating the LIACs. If the LIACs are active, major milestones have been observed. This includes submission of a complete list of beneficiaries, monitor the status of construction of housing units, facilitate the actual transfer of beneficiaries, and come up with occupancy rules and regulations, explained Nograles, who as Cabinet Secretary is Chair of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Unified Implementation and Monitoring of Rehabilitation and Recovery Programs in the Yolanda Corridor (IATF-Yolanda), a task force formed in August 2017 by virtue of Administrative Order No. 5. We are appealing to local government units for active support and participation because only through LIACs that we can effectively implement housing program. Through this committee, they can generate issues and concerns, report to us, and address these needs through national government agencies with the help of local governments, said the Cabinet official, who also visited Tanauaun to check permanent houses built by the National Housing Authority. The resettlement site here with 361 families, has been tagged as a model for adopting the township concept. Nograles revealed that based on the report of NHA on the Yolanda Permanent Housing Program, as of February 2019, of the 205,128 housing units in the Yolanda corridor, 56,140 are in Region VIII. Of the 56,140 Region VIII housing units, 29,531 housing units are fully completed, with 18,183 units already occupied and 11,348 units ready for occupancy. Government is targeting 2020 for the completion of all housing projects, though most of the units should be finished by the end of 2019. The former congressman from Davao said it was necessary to find out the needs of resettlement sites and program it under the 2020 budget. We want a township approach where resettlement sites are provided with electricity, water, community center, school, health center, access road, and livelihood opportunities, he said.Dulag Mayor Mildred Que welcomed the government initiatives to reach out to town mayors, saying Nograles was right about the need for closer coordination between the national government and LGUs in the region. We need to sit down and find time to talk together and plan this out comprehensively. This is a test of the agencies coordination skills and willingness to work with us, said Que. LIACs is consist of mayors, local government offices department heads, civil society organizations, peoples organizations, and other stakeholders from the private sector. LIACs can be activated via a Sanggunian resolution. The main function of LIACs is to serve as the focal structure of coordination and clearing house for relocation and resettlement planning and implementation. Its specific functions include the following, among others: (1) determine the magnitude and scope of resettlement requirement; (2) formulate a comprehensive relocation & resettlement action plan including estate management and community development; (3) recommend appropriate relocation/resettlement package and other entitlements for affected families; (4) develop a framework for and conduct multi-sectoral/ multistakeholder participation; and (5) establish guidelines and mechanics for beneficiary selection, arbitration and awards. Of the 43 LGUs provided with Yolanda housing projects, LIACs are reportedly active in 12 LGUs and are inactive in 10. In LGUs where LIACs are active, major accomplishments and milestones have been observed, such as: (1) complete submission of the master list of Yolanda housing beneficiaries, (2) public raffle of housing units, (3) actual transfer and relocation of beneficiaries, and (4) orientation of beneficiaries on occupancy rules and regulations and the Urban Development and Housing Act. GiuPao94 wrote: Hi, I work in my family business and, sadly, we're bakers. This means that I have a strange and inconsistent sleeping pattern, waking up at 3,30 am since I was 16 to work before school and university. Usually I sleep in the afteroon to recover myself. Recently, I tried several mocks in test-center conditions, scoring in the same range(650-660-660), even with a month of study in between. My first mock, during this preparation(this is my second time) was during the Christmas holidays, when I have been able to sleep two days consecutively all night long such as a normal person(something like 0:00 to 8:00am), and I scored 690. Now, the strange things are: During my first mock, I scored Q49 and V35 on the old software(37 quant and 41 verbal questions). I'm currently enrolled in full course, and it is yielding pretty good. I'm able to score consistently around Q49 in math and I'm improving my verbal score. The interesting thing is...That at the time when I scored 690, I didn't started the verbal course yet. I was basically just remembering the things from my precedent GMAT preparation almost one year before. So I managed to get a V35 without study anything, on a longer test but with 2 nights of good sleep. This month, I tried 3 GMATPrep Mocks Q48 V31(650)GMATPrep3 Q50 V28(660)GMATPrep4 Q48 V33(660) GMATPrep6 In each of these test I did not sleept well like in my first one, and I scored poorly in Verbal even if now I finished the . In these mocks, I tried to sleep since 20:30pm to 3:30am, then worked for 3-4 hours and then started the mock a 9:00am. Now I'm wondering if and how much can the sleep quality-deprivation-pattern influence my score overall. I'm planning to take one week off from work before the GMAT and then sleep like a normal person for that week. What's your opinion/experience about it? Is it all about the number of hours or does the time/pattern influece as well? Posted from my mobile device One prominent expert said that s/he has slept 4 hours on average for last 22 years! If sleep makes any problem how did s/he achieve a good score in gmat? If you are habituated with 4 hours sleep then it does not make any problem at least to you, IMO.But,Suppose, you go to sleep 7am everyday like me but if you make appointment test time at 9am then it will make problems in real exam because you made this appointment at 9am just to sleepin the exam hall!_________________ PAF COUNCILS CROSSROADS. The Philippines hosts this years Asia Water Council, with problems and solutions to the regions water issues, which include the water crisis since last week in Metro Manila, on the delegates clipboards. Held at the Makati Diamond Residences with (from left) MWSS Administrator Reynaldo Velasco, Dr. Yongdeok Cho and Ferdinand dela Cruz, president and CEO of Manila Water Company. READ: Manicad: Time to take radical steps to solve El Nino It is time for me to write the book I always wanted to write, the book that may have no readers but that sums up my work. My book on America, The Storm Before the Calm, will be out in September, freeing me to write the book that has no title yet. The intent of this next book is to embed geopolitics, my lifes work, with philosophy, my love; I want to imagine that geopolitics derives from the great minds I read. My other books I have written alone. The writing of this one, or at least the thoughts that give it life, will be shared with my readers. And they, being in my mind far wiser than all the professors of philosophy I have met, will point out my errors and inconsistencies and will enrage me until I do better. Each week I will write about a fragment of thought that I have been mulling over. Some will be polished; most such as this one will not have reached the clarity worthy of the reader. But each fragment is meant to be a prism through which I can understand important things in due course. The pieces will appear each Thursday. It may be that most people will object to its obscurity and carelessness. If so, I will return to my cave and mutter. This weeks fragment of thought is on the relationship between geopolitics and the shaping of the human soul. It traces Europe to Christianity, Christianity to Athens and Jerusalem, and these cities to wars between Babylon and Persia. It also traces the tension between the dictums know thyself and I am the Lord thy God. It is only a first sketch, so dont expect too much of it. European civilization has a unique place in world history. It was Europe, through exploration and conquest, that forged the global understanding that there is a single humanity living in multiple hemispheres and made that notion common knowledge. Until then, humanity had lived with a different and false map of the world, ignorant of its breadth and variability. Since Europe was the continent of Christianity, it spread Christianity. But Europeans realization of the many different cultures that existed, worshipping so many different gods, ultimately weakened the self-confidence of Christianity and of European civilization. But that is a story to consider at a later date. For now, the question is why it was Europe and not some other civilization that tore the veil away and revealed the breadth of the world. All of this is a geopolitical problem. Religion would seem not to be part of geopolitics any more than philosophy is, but geopolitics is complex. It is about the relationship of humans to a place, but the nature of a place is shaped by complex forces which, in this case, include Christianity. And Christianity itself emerges from two cities that are both near and very far apart: Athens and Jerusalem. It is there that we must begin. Athens was the city in which reason came to know itself as mans highest moment, and in which Aristotle said, Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom. Jerusalem is the city that enshrined the commandment I am the Lord thy God Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Athens was the city of logos reason and discourse. Jerusalem was the city of awe not of men but of God and his law. The Gospel of John begins with the proclamation, In the beginning was the Word [logos], and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. In that phrase, John sought to unite reason and revelation, the principles of Athens and Jerusalem. Athens held the core belief that to know thyself was the highest of goods; Jerusalem, that knowing Gods law was the greatest of things. Christianity obsessed over the soul and the self at the same time that it obsessed over Gods will. The Christian scholar Thomas Aquinas struggled with this tension, as did the Jewish philosopher Maimonides and the Muslim scholar al-Farabi. The dilemma of Athens and Jerusalem embedded itself in Eurasia. The tension between reason and revelation defined the region. From a purely geopolitical point of view, it is striking that all of this played out along the rim of the Mediterranean, a small region within a far vaster world. It is hard to imagine two cities more distant in spirit than Athens and Jerusalem. Athens was built above a port, Piraeus. Ships from all over the Mediterranean arrived daily, delivering luxuries from around the basin. Athens was a wealthy city and, as some have said, corrupt and even weak because of its wealth. Jerusalem rested on a hill, overlooking a hard land where luxuries were few and held in suspicion. Athens luxuriated in the good life. Jerusalem luxuriated in a hard and jealous God. Athens knew many truths; Jerusalem, only one. The one thing that bound them together was Persia. Persia threatened the Athenians very existence but they were saved first by the Spartans (who were more Hebrew than Athenian) and then by their own navy. The Israelites were not threatened by the Persians but rather saved by them. The prophets had warned the Israelites that their failure to adhere to Gods laws would cause the fall of Jerusalem. In the end, this is what happened. They were conquered by Babylon (roughly located in present-day southern Iraq), the Israelites were exiled, and many wound up in Persia. Persia and Babylon fought a war or, more precisely, an episode of a war that is ancient if not eternal. After defeating Babylon, King Cyrus allowed the Israelites to return to Israel and rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. The Athenians had allies. The Spartans and the Athenians had a common interest in avoiding being subjugated by Persia. The Israelites lived on difficult land and struggled with one other one of the reasons for Gods aforementioned warning. And because the land was hard, there were few allies available, and because the Israelites were meant to focus on God, diverting their attention to subtle statecraft could be difficult. Their relative poverty and limited ports also meant they were not embedded in the wider world of the Mediterranean. So, the Athenians won, the Israelites lost yet, they recovered what was lost because of Persias war with Babylon and the Israelites ability to shape Persian policy toward them. Greece defeated Persia because it had strategic depth: a navy that could strike the Persian flank and rugged hills to retreat into. The Greeks, moreover, did not have to unite until war broke out. Their own fragmentation increased their defensive capability. Israel faced a different problem. It had hills in the north and desert to the south, but there was little to protect it in the east. Therefore, the Israelites had to maintain constant vigilance and unity, for a threat could materialize quickly. The Israelites did not have the Greek comfort of strategic depth. Greece had luxury even Sparta was luxurious compared to Israel. The Greeks had the luxury to think about knowing themselves. Israel, united by the commandment to honor God and his laws, could mass and win. Divided by a lack of piety, they could be crushed and they were. The moral problem and the geopolitical reality merged. Or, more precisely, geopolitical reality generated a moral principle essential to survival. Athens and Jerusalem were in many ways forged in the Persian-Babylonian crucible. But their most significant effect was not to the east but to the west and north, in Europe. Athens and Jerusalem served as the foundation for post-pagan Europe and dominated it. Europe dominated the creation of a single world as well. Part of Europes hunger came from searching for discounts in India. But the Christian components of the European surge into the world should not be neglected. And therefore, Athens and Jerusalem must not be neglected. As Ive said, this is not intended to be anything more than a fragment of thought. But it is the beginning of the question: What is the relationship of geopolitics to the intellectual tradition? I do not regard geopolitics as a mechanistic tool designed to predict next week. I see it as part of a very old discussion of how we humans should understand the things we do and the things we have done. I regard global self-awareness as a giant punctuation mark in human history that can be traced back to Christianity, Christianity to Athens and Jerusalem, and Athens and Jerusalem to Persia and Babylon one of the axes of the world. There will be more to follow. Venezuela frees German journalist posted March 16, 2019 at 09:05 pm by AFP March 16, 2019 at 09:05 pm Caracas, VenezuelaGerman journalist Billy Six, detained by Venezuelan intelligence services four months ago, was freed Friday in Caracas but must report to the court every 15 days, an NGO confirmed. Six was arrested in northern Falcon state for allegedly photographing President Nicolas Maduro very closely, according to free speech NGO Espacio Publico. German journalist Billy Six is freed ... they are imposing interim measures of presentation every 15 days and prohibition to speak to the media about his case. We demand full freedom, the group said on Twitter. Six went on hunger strike in December, before lifting it pending diplomatic efforts, according to the German embassy.He then published a letter claiming he had been denied the right to defense and that he had not received the results of medical testing after suffering from dengue fever in late October. He was in the country to investigate drug trafficking, smuggling, and human traffickingand the exodus of Venezuelans forced to migrate due to economic crisis. COMMENT DISCLAIMER: Reader comments posted on this Web site are not in any way endorsed by Manila Standard. Comments are views by manilastandard.net readers who exercise their right to free expression and they do not necessarily represent or reflect the position or viewpoint of manilastandard.net. While reserving this publications right to delete comments that are deemed offensive, indecent or inconsistent with Manila Standard editorial standards, Manila Standard may not be held liable for any false information posted by readers in this comments section. I am a Canna What Flower Are You? table width="145">"You stand up for what you believe in, even if it gets in the way of what other people think. You are proud of yourself and your accomplishments and you enjoy letting people know that." Brief Encounter (1945) is considered one of the best British films ever by those of a certain age. It is based on the play Still Life (1936) by Noel Co... 3 hours ago WashingtonThe 2020 presidential election is still 20 months away, but one campaign battle is already raging: the fight for Americas small-dollar contributions. With all 12 major Democratic White House candidates shunning donations from corporations and political action committees, or PACs, they have turned their collective eye toward individual voters, who are showing increasing willingness to open their pocketbooks and play a larger role in the political process. All signs point to an avalanche of personal contributions in the 2020 election cycle as individuals invest more of their own cash in candidates, as polls show voters are overwhelmingly fed up with dark money and corporate influence in politics. The money in politics is corrupting. It controls everything, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand told voters in Des Moines, Iowa, last month after announcing her presidential bid. You have to get money out of politics. And thats why, as a very small first step, Im not taking corporate PAC money.Instead she and others, armed with massive voter databases culled from social media and other contacts thanks to improving technology, are sending out millions of fundraising emails seeking contributions to fund their exhausting ground operations even just a dollar, pleaded one such message from Democrat Cory Booker. Bernie Sanders, the liberal senator who made campaign finance reform a central pillar of his rebellious 2016 presidential campaign, entered the 2020 race in February with a bang, raising $5.9 million in the first 24 hours from more than 220,000 individuals across all 50 states. The average donation was $27. Powerful special interests may have the money, he tweeted, but we have the people. Donald Trump, of course, is not sitting idle. The president filed his candidacy for 2020 the day after his inauguration, and his campaign has been fundraising ever since, reportedly raising some $106 million by last October. IceViking strongly condemns physical attacks and harassment directed towards them. They are also often victims of the Islamic idea. This is true when it comes to the cruel and tragic treatment of Muslim women and children when it is in accord with the Koran, the example of Mohammed and Islamic law, Sharia, which may be applied regardless of where a Muslim male may find himself in the world, whether in a Muslim or non-Muslim country. However, in no way, shape or form should one judge all Muslim men because of what is in Islamic scripture and what constitutes the Islamic law, Sharia. "Race", ethnicity or basically anything that you are "merely" born with should never be a basis for bigotry and discrimination. Apostates from Islam have been executed for 1400 years in accord with the Koran and the words and actions of the Islamic prophet Mohammed and Islamic law, Sharia. They should be lovingly helped. Furthermore, approximately as many as 11,000,000 Muslims may have been killed by other Muslims since 1948. To quote the website The Religion of Peace (TROP), edited by Glen Roberts: While it may be safe to say that a true Muslim would not intentionally kill another true Muslim ( 4:92-93 ), the Quran places no such value on the life of a Muslim who is not true. Consider verse 9:73 : Strive hard against the disbelievers and the hypocrites, and be harsh against them, their abode is Hell. The Arabic for strive hard uses the same root as Jihad - and the context in this sura is holy war (see v. 86 and 91). Thus, there are two distinct classes of people that a true Muslim is to target with harshness: disbelievers and hypocrites. A disbeliever obviously refers to a non-Muslim, so a "hypocrite" must be a Muslim of some sort. In fact, hypocrites are those who say they believe, but do not act as they should. In other words, they are "Muslims", but not true Muslims. They will go to hell just as unbelievers do, and so, according to the verse, their lives matter for naught. The same sura says that a hypocrite can be recognized not just by lack of piety (reluctance to follow Sharia), but by fear of death ( 9:56 ), reluctance to fight ( 9:44-45 ) and even friendliness toward non-believers ( 9:67 ). A true Muslim would thus be a pious person who relishes martyrdom, is eager to fight, and shuns non-believers. Even the Quranic passage that warns against killing "believers" ( 4:88-94 ) is more complicated than it first appears. It never says that a true Muslim is incapable of killing another Muslim, just that it should not be done. In fact, it makes exceptions for the unintentional killing of "believers" in war and mandates the killing of "hypocrites." Verse 17:33 says, "Do not kill anyone which Allah has forbidden, except for a just cause" . The greatest cause of all is that Islam be superior ( 9:33 ), which is exactly what Islamic terrorists say is their goal. Thus believing Muslims are allowed to be collateral damage in the war on unbelievers. There is sadly a phenomena that I`ve noticed in Sweden and elsewhere of people using true facts about Islamic doctrine and history as a cover for all sorts of irrational targeting of Muslims, ranging from xenophobia and racism to verbal abuse and physical attacks. This is strongly condemned by this website and does not in any way serve serious criticism of orthodox Islam and other important work. It`s also important that one tries to express oneself in a civilized way. Words matter. In this bloggers humble opinion the root cause of the problem is the ancient doctrine of orthodox Islam. In simple terms a non-Muslim is a Kafir. " The Koran defines the kafir and kafir is not a neutral word. A kafir is not merely someone who does not agree with Islam, but a kafir is evil, disgusting, the lowest form of life." An exact quote, as stated in the writings of Dr. Bill Warner in the article "Kafir" at http://www.politicalislam.com/kafir . In the perfect Koran (Allah`s direct and literal word as revealed to Mohammed through the angel Jibril), Muslims are told 89 times to emulate Mohammed in all ways (see Koran 33:21 for instance). Mohammed`s example, the Sunna, is found in the Hadith (stories of what Mohammed said and did) and the Sira (biographies of Mohammed). Islamic law, Sharia , is directly derived from these unchanging scriptures. It is based on the Koran`s numerous commands to obey Allah and obey the Messenger, that is Mohammed (see Koran 4:59 for instance). Islam is Sharia. Sharia is Islam. It is a capital crime for Muslims to deny Sharia in any way. A Muslim is someone who submits to Islam and submitting to Islam means obeying the Sharia of Allah. Sharia law includes pronouncements for both Muslims and non-Muslims (Kafirs). Islam is a "complete way of life", a "complete code of life", a "complete system of life". Islam is not just a religion but also a comprehensive ideology. Islam is a supremacist ideology. Islam is a totalitarian and imperialistic ideology akin to Communism and Nazism. Islam is a civilization. Islamic law, Sharia, is a manual for a civilization. Islamic law, Sharia, governs every aspect of life. It has a say about every conceivable human act . Non-Muslims are morally and legally inferior in Islam. Women are morally and legally inferior in Islam. The History of Jihad: From Muhammad to ISIS by Robert Spencer is the first one-volume history of jihad in the English language and a great book on the topic. Allah guarantees Paradise to those who "kill and are killed" for him (Koran 9:111). A hadith depicts a Muslim asking Muhammad: "Instruct me as to such a deed as equals Jihad (in reward)." Muhammad replied, "I do not find such a deed." (Bukhari 4.52.44) Muhammad himself said: I have been commanded to fight against people so long as they do not declare that there is no god but Allah, and he who professed it was guaranteed the protection of his property and life on my behalf except for the right affairs rest with Allah. (Sahih Muslim 30) Freedom of speech, human rights, democracy, science and human lives are all at stake in the fight against the Islamic Jihad. As of August 26th, 2021 Yahoo India will no longer be publishing content. Your Yahoo Account Mail and Search experiences will not be affected in any way and will operate as usual. We thank you for your support and readership. For more information on Yahoo India, please visit the FAQ Christchurch, New ZealandA one-time gym trainer from rural Australia who became steeped in neo-fascist ideology during travels in Europe, Brenton Tarrant described himself as an ordinary white manuntil he became anything but ordinary. The gunman behind the massacre of 49 people in two New Zealand mosques flashed a white power sign during a brief court appearance Saturday, but he was not on any terrorist watch-list and appeared to have no criminal history. Tarrant, 28, grew up in the small town of Grafton in northern New South Wales, where he graduated high school before earning some fitness qualifications and going on to find work at a local gym in 2009. The gyms owner, Tracey Gray, described him as a hard-working trainer but said he appeared to have been changed by his travels in Europe and Asiawhich social media posts suggested included trips as far afield as Pakistan and North Korea. I think something must have changed in him during the years he spent traveling overseas, Gray told national broadcaster ABC. Somewhere along the lines, experiences or a group have got a hold of him, she said. Grays speculation was backed up by a rambling, hate-filled, manifesto Tarrant posted to social media ahead of the Christchurch killings. In the 74-page screed, he says he first began considering an attack in April and May of 2017 while travelling in France and elsewhere in Western Europe.He mentions being shocked at the invasion of French cities by immigrants and his despair at the French presidential vote that year which saw pro-European centrist Emmanuel Macron defeat his far-right opponent Marine Le Pen. In a brief biographical sketch included in his manifesto, Tarrant describes himself as just a ordinary white man... born in Australia to a working class, low income family. His childhood was regular and, he insisted, issue-free. He barely achieved a passing grade in school and had no interest in pursuing higher education. According to media reports, his father died of cancer in 2010 and gym owner Gray said she believed he had a mother and sister still living in Grafton. Two modified semi-automatic weaponsreportedly AR-15stwo shotguns and a lever-action gun were used in Fridays deadly rampage, and photos of the weaponry with distinctive writing on them were posted on social media days before. Scrawled in English and several Eastern European languages were the names of numerous historical military figuresmany of them Europeans involved in fighting the Ottoman forces in the 15th and 16th centuries. A few took part in the Crusades, centuries earlier. In our previous part, we looked at what Maryam Rajavi said were the biggest problems facing women in Iran. Here we will look at the steps that Maryam Rajavi advises are necessary to womens liberation in Iran. Maryam Rajavi said that because the Regime is the arch nemesis of women and the primary obstacle against freedom and equality, the first step towards womens equality in Iran is the overthrow of the Regime. Thus women, who have suffered the most injustices under the mullahs and have the highest motivation to remove them, must join the Resistance to fight the dictators and free Iran. Maryam Rajavi notes that the key for progress on womens equality is solidarity and collective action, which brings all women together to fight hand-in-hand for the same goals, as this will increase capabilities and reduce fears and deficiencies. Maryam Rajavi said: Every womans talents and potentials can be realized to the highest extent only through solidarity with her sisters. When individual action evolves into collective action, facing barriers becomes easier. So, each one of us can advance ahead and be effective to the extent that we avoid abandoning our sisters. We need to have more women in our ranks. She advises that many women already involved in the Resistance have, in response to the ongoing threat of the mullahs, taken their activities to new heights and have proven that women can create incredible change if they work together. Maryam Rajavi said: Women in the Iranian Resistance have blazed the trail in this regard. They see their success and advancement as being dependent on the advancement of the collective. Their efforts are a way for the advancement and progress of their other sisters. They are flag bearers for values such as self-sacrifice to save their enchained people and also for placing priority on their sisters collective progress versus individual advancement. She also highlighted the brave women in the Resistance who have put their lives on the line to protect others, like Jila Tolou who dove over her sister to protect her from the bullets during the Regimes massacre at Camp Ashraf. But Maryam Rajavi believes that is not just necessary to fight the oppressors already in power but to fight against the wrong beliefs that they have imposed on the women of Iran to change the hearts and minds of every Iranian about the role of women. Maryam Rajavi said: We have to struggle for not only what is possible, but what must be. And on this path, shifting the mindset and dislodging of womens own beliefs is a significant and extremely imperative step. Rising up, searching for new values and discovering the potentials of the self and others in a collective effort and struggle supplies the roadmap for the struggle for freedom and equalityWomen have not been born to submit to intimidation, injustice and exploitation. They can and they must change the world in accordance with the ideal of equality. Hook said that Donald Trump had always made it very clear that [the US needed] to have a campaign of maximum economic pressure on the Iranian Regime, but that he also wants to make sure that the oil market is well supplied so that there was no crash. Hook said: That policy has not changed. And it appears to be working. The US sanctions on Iran and Venezuela two of the biggest oil producers in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) combined with production cuts by OPEC and Russia have pushed up the price of heavy crude without actually destabilising the global oil market. In fact, the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) projects that world supply will exceed demand by 440,000 barrels per day in 2019 Last year, when the US pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal, citing Irans malign behaviour, it imposed sanctions against Iran in order to cut the country off economically. This, the US explained, would stop Iran from having the money to continue its nuclear programme or fund terrorist militias. However, the US allowed eight countries to keep importing Iranian oil until May 2019 in order to stabilise the oil market and make it more likely that the sanctions would work long-term. Hook, a senior policy adviser to US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, said: When you have a better-supplied oil market it enables us to accelerate our path to zero. But we also know that there are a lot of variables that go into a well-supplied and stable oil market. The US withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal, otherwise known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), last May, with Trump calling it a one-sided deal. Since the withdrawal, we have only learnt more about how Iran violated the deal by not destroying its reactor, buying and hiding replacement parts for the things it did destroy, and not allowing inspectors to see nuclear sites. Given what is at stake, should we be worried that Iran is seeking to turn Iraq into a proxy state, as the Regime has already done with Lebanon? Simply, yes. Iran began expanding its influence in Iraq following the fall of the Iraqi ruling system, seeking to minimise US influence by backing armed Sunni and Shiite militias. There is ample evidence that Iran wants to turn Iraq into another banana republic, even funding the country to the tune of billions of dollars, as Iran already does with Lebanons Hezbollah and Bashar Assads Syrian government, in order to recruit militants who would fight on Irans behalf around the world. Iran does not want Iraq to be a stable and strong country, free of foreign influence, but the Iraqi people disagree. Iraq is currently enjoying strong international relations and could soon be one of the richest countries in the region once its redevelopment has finished. It does not need to be subservient to a country that is facing strict global diplomatic and economic sanctions, whose oil tankers float abandoned in the middle of the sea, which cannot use the US dollar to sell pistachios, and has been deserted by even its closest powerful allies (China and Russia). Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi knows what Iraqs potential is, as well as that Iran wants him to squander it away, especially after Rouhanis speech about supporting Iraq during its difficult days. However, lets not forget that Irans problems are all of the Regimes own making. If the mullahs had abandoned their nuclear project, stopped intervening militarily in neighbouring countries, and ended its support for terrorist militias. Why should Iraq sacrifice itself to help Iran? Abdulrahman Al-Rashed, the former general manager of Al-Arabiya television, wrote: Iran was not forced to fight these battles; rather, its regime has chosen to play the role of the villain in the region Iraqis must now realize that what is going on is an international battle, and they will lose all that they have achieved since stability and state authority returned to Baghdad. The Iranian officials who visited Baghdad want to turn Iraq into a subordinate satellite state and Iraq should resist at all costs. The supposedly moderate Iranian president explicitly framed Iranian-Iraqi relations in terms of defiance of Western influence, referring to the US as an occupying power and an aggressor. In keeping with that approach, the final day of Rouhanis visit included his first ever meeting with Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani, the top Shiite cleric in Iran. Sistani is a well-known opponent of foreign influence over Iraqi affairs a position that ostensibly lends itself to criticism of both American and Iranian forces in the country. However, Sistani is also credited with the creation of a paramilitary alliance called Hashd al-Shaabi, which unified a number of different groups in the fight against Islamic State militants and was later absorbed into Iraqs regular armed forces. Among the groups making up that alliance, many took their marching orders from Tehran, and some have kept that leadership structure intact despite the absorption. It stands to reason that Rouhanis meeting with Sistani was intended to amplify the clerics opposition to American influence while downplaying any similar opposition to Iranian forces and local proxies that continue to operate within Iraqs military institutions and, increasingly, its political system. Affiliates of the Iran-backed militias now hold several seats in the Iraqi parliament, raising serious concerns among US policymakers and other persons who are concerned with the expansion of Irans regional role. These concerns were clearly expressed by Brian Hook, the US State Departments special representative on Iran, in his commentary upon Rouhanis time in Iraq. Voice of America News quoted him as saying that the Iranian leadership would ultimately like for Iraq to become a vassal state of the Islamic Republic. In that role, it would facilitate, among other things, the transport of fighters and weapons across the Middle East, via a planned highway joining Tehran to Damascus and other points west. Indeed, construction on a segment of that highway began last month in the wake of trade talks between Iraqi and Iranian officials, around the time of the 40th anniversary of Irans Islamic revolution. This also speaks to the broader perceived ambitions of the Iranian regime in the region as a whole. Tehran has frequently been described as pursuing the establishment of a Shiite Crescent that effectively extends the reach of the Islamic Republic beyond its existing borders and positions the theocratic dictatorship as the prospective leader of a unified Muslim world. In fact, following the capture of Sanaa by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in 2016, Iranian hardliners publicly declared that the Yemeni capital was the fourth to come under Iranian control, after Lebanon, Baghdad, and Damascus. Such rhetoric naturally colors Western thinking about Iranian officials outreach to counterparts in those capitals, even when those Iranian officials are alleged to be moderate by the standards of their regime. The factional divide between moderates and hardliners was brought into sharp focus last month when Irans Foreign Minister Javad Zarif threatened to resign after apparently being sidelined by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and Qassem Soleimani, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force, when they personally received a visit from Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad. However, the resolution of that factional crisis involved a statement by Khamenei, which identified Zarif and the rest of the Rouhani administration as loyal servants of hardline foreign policy goals, particularly confrontation of Western influence. This arguably set the tone for Rouhanis departure for Iraq roughly two weeks later. At the same time, it underscored the regimes fixation on promoting an anti-Western resistance axis that includes both Iraq and Syria, and thus justifies prioritizing deeper involvement in both of those countries. The Assad visit the first known state visit by the Syrian head of state since the outbreak of civil war in 2011 was apparently one example of the pursuit of this priority. A story in the state media outlet Fars News was apparently another, in that it boasted about the recent signing of 16 memoranda of understanding with Syrian business leaders, which supposedly confirmed Irans extensive, long-term involvement in the countrys post-war reconstruction. Such reports will no doubt be regarded as less threatening to Western interests than the outright promotion of pro-Iranian militant activity in other countries of the region. But Tehrans emerging plans for economic and cultural cooperation reflect a scenario that Naysan Rafati, the Crisis Groups Iran analyst, warned about in remarks to Voice of America. Iran is certainly playing the long game in Iraq, he said, referring to the prospective threat to Western influence that would accompany the general expansion of influence beyond military areas. As the U.S. tries to check Irans regional influence, Iraq could increasingly emerge as a theater for rivalry between Tehran and Washington. Speaking to the same outlet, Randa Slim, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute, was somewhat more optimistic, suggesting that Rouhanis visit to Iraq could mark the beginning of state-to-state relations that function as a check on what has so far been unrestrained and unaccountable action by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. But there is already precedent for Tehran using its cultural and economic actions in nearby countries as a means of amplifying militant aims, instead of counterbalancing them. Lebanon is a key example of this, insofar as Hezbollah, an Iran-backed paramilitary proxy, wields considerable social and political influence within its home country while also playing a substantial role in foreign terrorist attacks, the military defense of the Assad regime, and so on. Iranian largesse is widely recognized as a major reason why the Lebanese people generally embrace Hezbollah, sometimes in spite of questions about its militant activities. Against the backdrop of this situation, the Islamic Republic News Agency praised recent efforts by Iranian and Lebanese officials to broaden cultural cooperation between the two countries. Irans own contributions to that project will almost certainly strengthen the social underpinnings for Hezbollahs rising levels of control over Lebanese affairs. And the promise of that project comes at a crucial time, as hardline Iranian officials are pushing back against international demands for compliance with the anti-money laundering standards set by the Financial Action Task Force. Although the Iranian parliament has introduced at least four bills to establish such compliance, powerful individuals and institutions have obstructed the legislation out of fear that it would obstruct Irans financial support of Hezbollah, among other regional militant groups. At the same time that both nations express mutual commitment to Irans influence over Hezbollah, simultaneous commentary on such matters as Rouhanis trip to Iraq make it clear that that influence fits within a larger model. As the Iran Project pointed out on Wednesday, former Lebanese Foreign Minister Adnan Mansour praised Rouhani for encouraging the development of relations between Iran and Iraq that are as deep as the deep-seated relationship between Iran and Syria. Mansour went on to say that it would be in the interest of other Arab countries of the region to adopt similar relations with the Islamic Republic, and conversely, to reject relations with Western powers. The Iran Project further characterized the former Lebanese diplomats remarks as emphasizing that Rouhanis visit followed the Hezbollah model in highlighting various dimensions, including the increased security, strategic, military, economic, and financial cooperation. But there is an implicit danger in this model for partners of the Islamic Republic, insofar as it threatens to generate a situation of dependency and, more to the point, malleability under the thumb of a revolutionary state with aspirations of regional imperialism. The questionable public embrace of Hezbollah in Lebanon is only one example of the effects of this arrangement. The situation in Palestine is another, as was suggested in a recent Al Monitor article about Irans relationship with Hamas. In that case, as with Hezbollah, the Iranian regime has traditionally provided simultaneous support to military and political wings of the organization, thereby serving the regimes own ends but also fostering some manner of good will among the local population. But the article explains that when Hamas broke with the Iran over requests for support in the Syrian Civil War, the Iranians withdrew financial backing for the political wing while continuing to finance the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, the military subdivision that was focused on conflict and terrorist actions against Israel. This change reportedly had real consequences for Hamas and the Palestinian people, precipitating a financial crisis and forcing the closure of media institutions, thereby putting pressure on the groups leadership to come into line with Irans broader regional goals. The recent restoration of full financial backing for the entirety of Hamas allowed it to begin rebuilding damaged elements of its local operations. But in the meantime, the selective financing kept its paramilitary infrastructure intact and ready for deployment in service of Irans aims once Hamas re-submitted to foreign control. And with Irans relationship to Hamas having lately returned to normal, the group is once again being praised alongside Hezbollah by Iranian hardliners, as examples of Irans firm foundation of alliances in the Arab world. These were the words of Soleimani, the Quds Force commander, during a military ceremony on February 21. On Monday, at the same time that President Rouhani was visiting Baghdad, Soleimani was receiving Irans highest military honor. As Newsweek put it, Soleimani became the first officer to receive the Order of Zulfiqar since the 1979 revolution, because he has become a persistent, popular symbol of Irans footprint abroad and a standard bearer for defiance of Western influence and interests in the Middle East. Last March 15, students from around the world participated in a global school strike demanding bold action on climate change. According to estimates by 350.org, more than 1 million students from over 2000 locations in 125 countries participated in the strike. In the Philippines, hundreds of students and supporters gathered in at least 9 locations to show solidarity with the global strike. The students who participated in the strike are on firm scientific ground. Climate change poses a threat to their future. In fact, it already poses a threat to their present. Sharp reductions in carbon emissions are needed to ensure a livable future. One of the main inspirations for the movement, 16-year-old Swedish student Greta Thunberg, was recently nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Last year, Thunberg protested alone in front of the Swedish parliament. This week she was joined by more than a million students. The students who are striking in cities, towns and villages around the world are uniting behind the science, she writes in The Guardian. We are only asking that our leaders do the same. One of the Filipino students who participated in the global strike was Krishna Ariola. She joined Youth for Climate Hope in a silent protest at the Fountain of Justice in Bacolod City to call for climate action. Climate change used to be just a lesson in science class, today we are experiencing its effects firsthand, she said. But we cant be paralyzed by fear. Thats why we choose to act. Meanwhile, about 150 students from Apu Palamguwan Cultural Education Center in Bukidnon held a 12-kilometer march on mountain terrain to join the global call. High school student Vanessa Flores, who joined the march, talked about the impact of climate change on her community. Its not easy to live with an unpredictable climate that affects our crop yield, she said. It affects the food security of our family. Last year, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released a special report summarizing the extent of the climate crisis and laid down various pathways to prevent catastrophe. According to the report, which was based on hundreds of independent and reputable scientific studies, climate change will reach catastrophic levels if everything goes on as they are. Business as usual, as this path is often described. Using a mountain of evidence, the report shows that if we fail to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius and instead allow it to reach 2 degrees, the world will be a much more dangerous place for future generations. The report shows that the difference between a warming of 1.5 degrees and 2 degrees is literally a matter of life and death for millions of people. (The current level of warming is around 1 degree Celsius.)How do we limit warming to 1.5 degrees? According to the report, the worlds carbon emissions must be reduced to almost half by 2030, and to net zero by 2050. With 11 years to go before 2030, we are nowhere near this target. This explains the urgency in the students calls. Kyle Anne Villariza, a student from Miag-ao, Iloilo, helped organize an event in solidarity with the global movement out of this sense of urgency. I am joining the climate strike because I believe that the call for climate action has long been overdue, she says. This is to show that I will stand together with the youth of tomorrow. Many top climate scientists have expressed support for the students participating in the worldwide climate strike. In an open letter published in Scientific American, climate scientists Peter Kalmus, Kate Marvel, Michael Mann, Katharine Hayhoe, and Kim Cobb declared their support. They write, Our scientific understanding of the currently observed and projected future climate impacts clearly calls for the transformation of our energy systems and our society at all scales and across all sectors in order to rapidly decarbonize our economy. Ignoring the problem will not make it go away, the scientists write. Students demand for bold, urgent action are fully supported by the best available science. They need our support, but more than that, they need all of us to act. Their future depends on it; and so does ours. With the climate strike movement going global, world leaders are already feeling the heat. My generation has failed to respond properly to the dramatic challenge of climate change, writes UN secretary general Antonio Guterres in response to the school strikes. This is deeply felt by young people. No wonder they are angry. The students are striking because they have learned one of the most valuable lesson of all if we want to live safely, we must act in accordance with the science. Its time for the rest of us to act on it. There was a time when Metro Manila was told repeatedly to make every drop of water count. That catchword has come under sharp focus in the last fortnight, after thousands of households in Metro Manila and the outlying towns began to wobble from water woes, not helped any by the dry spell from the El Nino phenomenon which unofficially ushered in the scorching heat of summer. Sans decent warning, Manila Water, the sole provider of water and wastewater services to more than six million people in the East Zone of the metropolis, cut the water supply in at least six cities in the national capital and seven towns in adjacent Rizal province. What has taken the situation literally down the bottoms of the damsthe main sources of Metro Manilas water supply are the Angat, Ipo and La Mesais that these are reported drying up to rather low levels because of the absence of rain. The water from these dams eventually is processed by the La Mesa and Balara Treatment Plants, which convert the water from a raw state to clean and potable water. On Thursday, officials watching the dam situation said La Mesa, built in 1929 and can hold up to 50.5 million cubic meters in a 27-square-kilometer area in Quezon City, had plunged to its lowest level in 21 years at 68.74 meters as of March 14, a spine-chilling layout from 68.75 meters in 1998. The Philippine Air Force itself has confirmed it will begin cloud seeding operations, with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council releasing P18.3 million to the Department of Agricultures regional officers to address the El Nino phenomenon.But the National Irrigation Administration has raised some injunction that cloud seeding, where substances like salt are dumped onto targetted clouds to induce rainfall, should be the last resort in addressing drought which, according to the weather bureau, would affect 33 provinces by the end of May. The 33 are among the 42 that will go through a dry spell up to end of March following the large-scale ocean-atmosphere climate interaction linked to a periodic warming in sea surface temperatures across the central and east-central Equatorial Pacific. In the metropolis and nearby towns, meanwhile, residents remain guardedly zestful, given their optimistic culture. But the last drop from their faucet might just be the unappeasable mallet for their culture of tolerance and good humor. As the 20th century English-American poet W.H. Auden, known for his Funeral Blues, had said: Thousands have lived without love, not one without water. Four-hundred flutes for sparkling wine and cider lined the tables, awaiting the mornings celebratory toast. Hundreds of red, gold and white balloons were suspended on the ceiling like a held breath. With their loved ones close by, 85 Stanford medical students were about to learn where they would train to be doctors over the next several years. Match Day, the most suspenseful day of the year for medical students, is the day that medical students nationwide open envelopes at the same time on the West Coast, that means 9 a.m. revealing where they will spend their residencies. This year, Match Day fell on March 15. Lloyd Minor, MD, dean of the School of Medicine, addressed the gathering, at the Li Ka Shing Center for Learning and Knowledge, about 8:30 a.m., encouraging students to recognize the support of their friends and family not just today but throughout their upcoming careers. Personal resilience and the resilience we build up through our friends and our family is always going to be a constant force enabling us to remain vibrant and engaged and healthy ourselves as we seek to improve the health of those who entrust their care to us, Minor said. This is yet the next stage in what we know is going to be already has been and will continue to be a brilliant career for each of you. We couldnt be more proud of you as you enter into this match process. In the moments leading up to the big reveal, anticipation was high. A long road Its been a long road to get to this point not just the years of medical school, but the many months of applying and interviewing for residency, said Nathaniel Fleming, a fifth-year medical student from Eugene, Oregon. Fleming and fellow matching medical student Veronica Manzo met and married during medical school at Stanford, and were both hoping the envelopes held the same destination for them she in internal medicine, he in neurology. Im ready to take the next step, Fleming said. - Winwyn Marquez is rumored to be joining in the Binibining Pilipinas pageant - A lot of people said that she will vie for the Miss Universe Philippines crown - Recently, the beauty queen spoke up and gave her final decision PAY ATTENTION: Click "See First" under the "Following" tab to see KAMI news on your News Feed Winwyn Marquez finally disclosed her decision if she will be participating in the prestigious Binibining Pilipinas pageant this year. KAMI learned that a lot of people urged the Reina Hispanoamericana 2017 to vie for the highly-coveted Miss Universe Philippines crown in 2019. In a long Instagram post dated March 15, Winwyn announced that she will not be competing in the said national pageant. The award-winning beauty queen stated that she is now focused on the next phase of her career but she thought carefully of her decision. Im so humbled by your thoughts and words of encouragement in joining this pageant season. Sobrang nakakataba po ng puso But due to my work commitments and upcoming projects with my current network, I will not be able to join BBP since I have an existing contract and projects lined up. 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! There will always be a part of me that wants to compete in the pageant setting, at masakit din sa akin na hindi ako makakasali pero alam ko na hindi pwede sabay sabay ang lahat ng bagay. Kailangan mag-focus lang po sa isa to be able to succeed and do things well, Winwyn wrote. In a previous article by , some netizens expressed their strong opinions on why Winwyn and Mark Herras broke up. Winwyn Marquez, or Teresita Ssen Marquez in real life, is a Filipina actress, model, and beauty queen who is also the daughter of Joey Marquez. She joined Binibining Pilipinas in 2015 but she only finished in the Top 15. PAY ATTENTION: 12 Times Celebs Flaunted Their Mindblowing Wealth on Instagram Enjoyed reading our story? Download KAMI's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major Filipino news! Tricky Questions: What is the English of "bahing? We have included one of the trickiest questions and interesting challenges in this channel. Do you enjoy watching street interviews and listening to different opinions? on HumanMeter! Source: Kami.com.ph Algerian President Bows to Thousands Demanding His Resignation Weeks of mass protests across Algeria ended in victory for thousands of demonstrators who had been urging the gravely ill President Abdelaziz Bouteflika to step down. This week, President Bouteflika appeared to give in to their demands. He canceled the April 18 presidential elections and said he will not seek another term in office. There will be no fifth term, Mr. Bouteflika was quoted to say. There was never any question of it for me. Given my state of health and age, my last duty towards the Algerian people was always contributing to the foundation of a new Republic. ADVERTISEMENT The leader of Algeria for the past 20 years, he has rarely been seen in public since suffering a paralyzing stroke in 2013. Last week he pledged to step down early if re-elected but the guarantee failed to satisfy the thousands of demonstrators. Strikes by teachers and students, as well as shops closing and train services being suspended, had been gaining the support of ever larger crowds since the protests began about a month ago. Then on Monday more than 1,000 judges said they would refuse to oversee the planned general election were he a candidate. The militarys chief of staff, Lt Gen Gaed Salah, said the military and the people had a united vision of the future the strongest indication so far that the armed forces were sympathetic to the protests. On Monday night, hundreds of youths waving flags celebrated Mr. Bouteflikas decision in Algiers. Cars horns honked and families poured out into the streets. ADVERTISEMENT Though unrest was limited at a national level, there were many local protests, often sparked by a failure of the state to provide basic services and aggravated by high unemployment and an acute housing shortage. Its one small battle won, said Yasmine Bouchene of the collective Les Jeunes Engages (Activist Youth). Bouteflika asked for another year and he got his way. But we are willing to keep on fighting, she said. NBC Gives Woman of Color a Late Night Show LOS ANGELES (AP) NBC is shaking up late-night TV, giving Carson Dalys slot to a woman of color whos a star on YouTube. The network said Thursday that a new show, titled A Little Late with Lilly Singh, will air at 1:35 a.m. EDT beginning in September. Singh will be the only woman to host a daily late-night show on a major broadcast network. ADVERTISEMENT Her half-hour program will include in-studio interviews and pre-taped comedy sketches, NBC said. In a statement, Singh called the prospect of being an Indian-Canadian woman with her own late-night show a dream come true. Her acting credits include HBOs movie Fahrenheit?451, Bad Moms and Ice Age: Collision Course.? Singhs YouTube channel, in which she creates comedic and other videos, has more than 14 million subscribers, NBC said. Last month, Daly said hes decided its time to bring his Last Call show to an end as he focuses on new and continuing projects, as host and producer of NBCs The Voice. Speaker Pelosi, Reps. Roybal-Allard, Velazquez, and Clarke Introduce Dream and Promise Act to Protect Dreamers and Recipients of TPS and DED House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (CA-12) and Congresswomen Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40), Nydia Velazquez (NY-07), and Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) announced the introduction of H.R. 6, the Dream and Promise Act. Speaker Pelosi has the power to assign the bill numbers H.R. 1 through H.R. 10 for this Congress, and the Dream and Promise Acts designation as H.R. 6 underscores its status as a priority of the House Majority. The bill is the 116th Congresss version of the Dream Act, a bill which has been introduced since 2001 to allow the U.S.-raised immigrant youth known as Dreamers to earn lawful permanent residence and American citizenship. However, H.R. 6 includes protections and a path to citizenship not just for Dreamers, but also for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) beneficiaries. Speaker Pelosi and the bills three co-authors, Congresswomen Roybal-Allard, Velazquez, and Clarke, announced H.R. 6 today at a press event with House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (MD-05), Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-19), Congressman Mark Takano (CA-41), fellow House Democrats, and Dreamer and TPS individuals covered by the legislation. 204 House Members have signed on to H.R. 6. As a co-author of the original Dream Act, and as the congresswoman for the district with the nations largest Dreamer population, it is a privilege to lead todays introduction of the Dream and Promise Act, said Congresswoman Roybal-Allard. I have seen firsthand the love that our Dreamers have for our country. They are our neighbors and colleagues who help strengthen our communities. They are students, scientists, researchers, and small business owners. Our Dream and Promise Act recognizes the contributions and patriotism of Dreamers, TPS recipients, and DED beneficiaries by helping them stay in America, pursue a path to citizenship, and keep strengthening our great country. I look forward to fighting for the passage of this pivotal legislation in the House, and making it the law of the land. For two years, the Trump Administration has viciously targeted some of our most vulnerable immigrant communities creating a climate of uncertainty and fear, said Congresswoman Velazquez. Whether it is Dreamers who arrived here as children or TPS or DED recipients who came here fleeing desperate conditions, we need to make clear to these immigrants our friends and neighbors that we stand with them and they are here to stay. Im proud to join with my colleagues, Congresswomen Roybal-Allard and Yvette Clarke, in introducing this legislation, which would provide these communities with protections under the law and a path toward citizenship. ADVERTISEMENT We need comprehensive immigration reform that protects Dreamers, as well as TPS and DED beneficiaries, said Congresswoman Clarke. Thats why I am proud to be a co-lead on the Dream and Promise Act (HR 6). This bill will include a path to citizenship for Dreamers, as well as for people covered by Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure. This bill builds upon the Dream Act, the American Promise Act, and the ASPIRE TPS Act, which I introduced last Congress. Today, House Democrats are taking an important step forward to provide relief to Dreamers and those with TPS and DED, said Leader Hoyer. Im proud to cosponsor legislation introduced by Reps. Roybal-Allard, Velazquez, and Clarke, H.R. 6, which would remove the threat of deportation and provide a pathway to citizenship. I look forward to passing this legislation on the House Floor following committee consideration and sending it to the Senate. Congress and this Administration must meet its responsibility and take action to protect Dreamers and TPS recipients. Despite the difficulties they have faced without immigration status, for Dreamers and TPS recipients, this country is their home, said Congresswoman Lofgren. With the support of their families, friends, and communities, they have chased their dreams. However, due to the Trump Administrations efforts to halt these programs, these individuals futures remain very uncertain. Todays legislation aims to eradicate that uncertainty by creating a future where Dreamers and long-term TPS/DED recipients can finally have the peace of mind that comes with lawful permanent status. I am proud to support this legislation and the individuals it protects. America is a promise a promise of freedom, justice, and opportunity and to be an American is not defined by your immigration status, but by a set of values we all share, said Congressman Takano. Dreamers and TPS recipients are emblematic of what it means to be an American to play by the rules, contribute to our society, work hard, and serve our country. The Dream and Promise Act will give Dreamers and TPS recipients the opportunity to continue building their lives, raising their families, and contributing to their communities in the country that is now their home. By introducing this legislation, our friends and neighbors know that they are welcome here by passing it, we will show our immigrant communities that we have the political courage to stand up for them. Thank you to my colleagues for working on this important issue, together we will ensure that Dreamers and TPS recipients are here to stay. I am very proud and grateful to be part of a historic moment in our communitys struggle for representation, said Jesica Garcia, a Dreamer from Congresswoman Roybal-Allards 40th Congressional District; Ms. Garcia spoke at todays press event. This moment means hope and a chance to live life without hesitation, fear, and uncertainty. I want to develop my full potential as an educator and feel like I belong. The promise of permanency in the United States means I am part of something great and I will no longer need to hide. Ive been here for 20 years, always working hard and paying taxes just like anybody else. My son is 14 years old, he needs me, I need him and we both deserve to stay here, said Hever Galvez, a TPS holder and Maryland resident from El Salvador whose son has U.S. citizenship; Mr. Galvez also spoke at todays press event. In El Salvador, there are gangs on every corner, in every city, watching me daily. There are no jobs and I could be killed at any time. ADVERTISEMENT A fact sheet about the bill is attached, and the text of that fact sheet is below: H.R. 6, the Dream and Promise Act of 2019 Congresswomen Lucille Roybal-Allard, Nydia Velazquez, and Yvette Clarke The Dream and Promise Act allows Dreamers and individuals with TPS and DED to contribute fully in the country they love and know to be their home by providing a pathway to citizenship. Title I: Protecting Americas Dreamers The Dream and Promise Act would grant Dreamers conditional permanent resident status for 10 years, and cancel removal proceedings if they: Have been continuously physically present in the U.S. for 4 years preceding the date of the enactment of the bill; Were 17 years old or younger on the initial date of entry into the U.S.; Are not inadmissible on the following grounds: criminal, security and terrorism, smuggling, student visa abuse, ineligibility for citizenship, polygamy, international child abduction, unlawful voting, or former citizens who renounced citizenship to avoid taxation; and have not participated in persecution; Other than a state offense for which an essential element is the persons immigration status or a minor traffic violation, have not been convicted of: o any federal or state offense punishable by a term of imprisonment of more than 1 year; o 3 or more federal or state offenses for which the person was convicted on different dates and imprisoned for an aggregate of 90 days or more; o a crime of domestic violence (unless the applicant is a victim themselves of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, child abuse or neglect, elder abuse or neglect, or human trafficking, has been battered or subjected to extreme cruelty, or has been a victim of criminal activity); and Graduate from high school, obtain a GED or industry recognized credential, or are in a program assisting students in obtaining a high school diploma, GED or equivalent exam, or in an apprenticeship program. Pass security and law enforcement background checks, pay a reasonable application fee, and register for the Selective Service if required. In order to gain full lawful permanent resident (LPR) status, Dreamers must: Acquire a degree from a U.S. institution of higher education; or complete at least two years in good standing in a bachelors or higher degree program or in an area career and technical education program at a post-secondary level in the U.S.; or Complete at least two years of military service, and if discharged, received an honorable discharge; or Be employed for periods of time totaling at least three years and at least 75 percent of the time that the person has had employment authorization. The bill also includes a number of provisions for Dreamers, including: Repealing Section 505 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996, which penalizes states that grant in-state tuition to undocumented students on the basis of residency; Allowing Dreamers to access federal financial aid; Ensuring that individuals with conditional permanent resident status are able to access professional, commercial, and business licenses; and Permitting eligible Dreamers deported from the United States by the Trump Administration to apply for relief from abroad. Title II: A Path Forward for TPS and DED Recipients The Dream and Promise Act would grant individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) LPR status and cancel removal proceedings if they: Have been in the United States for a period of 3 years before the Acts enactment; and Were eligible or had TPS on September 25, 2016 or had DED status as of September 28, 2016. The bill amends current TPS law to require the Secretary of Homeland Security to provide an explanation of a decision to terminate a TPS designation and requires the Secretary must provide a report 3 days after publishing a notice of such termination. This report must explain the original designation and any progress made by a country to resolve the issues leading to TPS designation. The Secretary also has to describe the qualitative and quantitative methods used to assess whether or not country conditions have improved, which would include addressing any challenges or shortcomings related to the initial designation. The bill also clarifies that an immigrant entering the TPS program will be considered as having been inspected and admitted into the United States. Title III: Additional General Provisions The bill also sets forth a number of provisions that protect Dreamers and individuals with TPS or DED during their application for relief. These include: Successful Meeting On LGBTQ Issues Held Feb. 21, 2019 Making the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) and its nine colleges more hospitable and responsive to LGBTQ students, faculty and staff was the topic of a meeting recently chaired by LACCD Board of Trustees member David Vela. Joining the meeting was District Chancellor Francisco Rodriguez, Ph.D.; Mr. Eddie Martinez, Executive Director of the Latino Equity Alliance and representatives for the Districts employee and faculty labor groups. The LGBTQ Advisory Group will meet routinely to advance and strengthen services to the LGBTQ community at all of our nine campuses, LACCD Trustee Vela said. We want to let all students know that we are here to help them achieve their educational goals and aspirations. The Feb. 21 meeting opened the door to future discussions about potential policies and practices that support the LGBTQ community and establishing partnerships between the District and the LGBTQ community, including increased access to the colleges, bolstering financial aid opportunities and enhancing student support services. ADVERTISEMENT Discussion also included strategizing on state and federal policy advocacy that the District could sponsor and support. I want to thank Trustee Vela for his leadership on ensuring that the LGBTQ community has a strong voice in the Los Angeles Community College District. It is important that we continue to work together to create an open and welcoming environment for all students regardless of gender or sexual orientation, LACCD Board President Mike Fong said. LGBTQ community college students too often struggle alone without appropriate support at a critical time in their lives because of who they are and who they loves, Mr. Martinez said. We welcome the opportunity to work with Trustee Vela, and with his leadership, we can ensure LACCD is a safe and welcoming place for the Districts LGBTQ student population, the majority of whom are working-class people of color. The LACCD has an estimated 10,000 self-identified LGBTQ students enrolled at its colleges. Additional information about future meetings will be announced soon. Thousands Gather in Nairobi to Clean Up the Earth Heads of state, government ministers, business leaders, senior UN officials and grassroots activists are gathering in Nairobi this week for the fourth UN Environment Assembly the worlds top body on the environment. This years theme is Innovative Solutions for Environmental Challenges and Sustainable Consumption and Production. The assembly is expected to draw the largest gathering in the groups short history with attendance almost double the last event in December 2017. Prominent world leaders will attend, including the Presidents of France and Kenya, Emmanuel Macron and Uhuru Kenyatta, and CEOs from major corporations. ADVERTISEMENT Resolutions on the table will address sustainable consumption and production patterns, protection of the marine environment from plastic pollution, food waste, and technological innovation that combats climate change, and reduces resource use and biodiversity loss. Decisions have a profound impact on the goals of the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, as well as paving the way towards the UN Climate Change Summit 2019 and impacting the overall UN agenda. UN Environments Acting Executive Director, Joyce Msuya of Tanzania, appealed to nations to step up and start delivering real change. Time is running short. We are past pledging and politicking. We are past commitments with little accountability. Whats at stake is life, and society, as the majority of us know it and enjoy it today, she wrote in a policy letter. Its clear that we need to transform the way our economies work, and the way we value the things that we consume, said Msuya. The goal is to break the link between growth and increased resource use, and end our throwaway culture. This year, it is reported that India will be leading two global resolutions at the assembly: one on nitrogen pollution and the other on the use of plastics. It will be a historic event as India has not pushed for such important resolutions at the UN in recent times. ADVERTISEMENT India is the third region to have assessed the environmental implications of nitrogen pollution after the U.S. and the European Union. In 2017, India completed this assessment under the leadership of N. Raghuram, the current chairman of the International Nitrogen Initiative. Agriculture has been the main source of nitrogen pollution as cereals like rice and wheat use only one-third of the nitrogen applied through fertilizers discharging the rest into the surrounding environment. Pakistan may raise the issue of Indian air strikes at the assembly calling it eco-terrorism. The air strikes carried on February 26 have allegedly damaged around 15 pine trees. The UN Environments report highlights five major issues of emerging global concern: synthetic biology, permafrost peatlands, ecological connectivity, the nitrogen fix, and maladaptation to climate change. If not addressed urgently, these issues can accelerate climate change and compromise ecosystem resiliencehaving detrimental impacts on our economy. The meeting opened with a statement by organizers on the crash of Ethiopian Airlines flight ET 302. It was a terrible loss for the United Nations, for our member states and for the environmental community. The environmental community is in mourning today. Many of those that lost their lives were en-route to provide support and participate in the UN Environment Assembly. We lost UN staff, youth delegates travelling to the Assembly, seasoned scientists, members of academia and other partners. We join the Secretary-General in expressing our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of all the victims who perished in this tragedy. The entire UN Environment Assembly will honor them in our efforts this week. UNCF Celebrates 75 Years of Investing in Better Futures at National DC Gala During an historic nightin more ways than oneUNCF (United Negro College Fund) celebrated its 75th anniversary at its national UNCF A Mind is Gala in Washington, DC, March 7. The event helped the storied organization reach new fundraising heights, raising more than it ever has during a single event$3.4 millionfor UNCFs historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). The event, whose title echoes the groups iconic motto, A mind is a terrible thing to waste, celebrated the founding of the organization by Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University) president Dr. Frederick Douglass Patterson with backing from corporate leaders led by John D. Rockefeller, Jr., and Coca Cola President Robert W. Woodruff. There are millions of Americans who, over 75 years, have invested in UNCF and better futures for our students, and through that success, for all of us, said Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO of UNCF. Tonight, we raise the resources our HBCUs need to do their invaluable work. Tonight, we fund scholarships that narrow the gap between college costs and family resources. And together, we change the narrative of our HBCUs, who help strengthen and elevate a new generation of young, Black and gifted students. The impressive evenings success was largely due to the overwhelming support from the gala attendees, including UNCF Presidents Award recipient Robert F. Smith, who announced a challenge match for funds raised on-site, and a special check presentation from UNCFs long-time advocate, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. ADVERTISEMENT The 2019 national honorees are notable UNCF donors and supporters from across the country who came together to celebrate this UNCF milestone and further advance the organizations mission to get students to and through college. The UNCF Presidents Award recipients included Smith, founding director and president of the Fund II Foundation, and The Ray Charles Foundation. Senior executives at Coca Cola, Exxon Mobil, and JPMorgan Chase, companies that have backed UNCF continuously since its founding, were honored with the UNCF Keepers of the Flame Award. And Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chair U.S. Rep. Karen Bass (D-CA) accepted the UNCF Frederick D. Patterson Award on behalf of the CBC for its long and effective support of African American education. Since its founding, UNCF has raised more than $4.8 billion and has helped nearly half a million students earn degrees at UNCF-member HBCUs. Theres another message in UNCFs 75th anniversary celebration, Lomax added. In a country whose population is rapidly trending majority-minority, and at a time when a college education is more importantand more expensivethan ever, UNCFs biggest challenges are ahead. UNCF annually awards more than 10,000 scholarships, Lomax noted, but for every scholarship it awards, it must turn away nine potential leaders for lack of funding. We oweand our country owesthose nine the support they need to go to and through college, Lomax said. As we celebrate our 75th anniversary, we commit to fulfilling that obligation. More than 1,100 people attended the celebration, including UNCFs 37 member institution presidents; the Honorable Muriel E. Bowser, mayor, Washington, DC; Vernon E. Jordan, Esq., civil rights activist and former executive director of UNCF; Adrian Fenty, former mayor of Washington, DC; and Johnathan Holifield, executive director, White House Initiative on HBCUs. Also attending were members of the U.S. House of Representatives, including many from the Congressional Black Caucus. Members attending were: U.S. Rep. David Trone (D-MD) U.S. Rep. Karen Bass (D-CA) (chairwoman, Congressional Black Caucus) U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA) (chairman, House Committee on Education and Labor) U.S. Rep. Alma Adams (D-NC) U.S. Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-OH) U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-GA) U.S. Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) U.S. Rep. Anthony Brown (D-MD) U.S. Rep. Val Butler Demings (D-FL) U.S. Rep. G.K. Butterfield (D-NC) U.S. Rep. Danny Davis (D-IL) U.S. Rep. Jahana Hayes (D-CT) U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX) U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL) U.S. Rep. Brenda Lawrence (D-MI) U.S. Rep. Al Lawson (D-FL) U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA) U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore (WI) U.S. Rep. John Lewis (D-GA) U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) To view images from this event, visit UNCF.org/75th. Follow UNCF on social media @UNCF #UNCF75 #UNCF. NASA's large new rocket will not be ready for launch next year, the American space agency's top official said this week. NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine told a Senate committee that he is thinking about using rockets made by private companies to keep the planned June 2020 launch date. NASA's delayed rocket is called the Space Launch System, or SLS. It's a "critical piece of what NASA needs to build," Bridenstine told the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. Bridenstine added that NASA would need two private rockets to take over the SLS' job of launching the Orion capsule and an upper stage. Orion must dock with the upper stage in orbit around Earth before going to the Moon. "This is 2019," Senator Roger Wicker, the committee chairman, told Bridenstine. "I'd sure like to keep us on schedule." The first test flight had first been planned for this year. "I want to be clear: NASA has a history of not meeting launch dates, and I'm trying to change that," Bridenstine said. NASA seeks a sustainable moon program. In the past, Apollo lunar landings were direct trips from and back to Earth. The goal now is to have a base with astronauts near the moon. Orion would not carry a crew and would not land on the moon. Instead, the Orion would get close to the Moon before traveling beyond it. A NASA statement says Orion "will travel 280,000 miles [450,000 kilometers] from Earth, thousands of miles beyond the Moon over the course of about a three-week mission." The statement adds, "Orion will stay in space longer than any ship for astronauts has done, without docking to a space station, and return home faster and hotter than ever before." NASA is already using private companies to make International Space Station shipments. If private rockets were to be used for the 2020 mission, SLS would be put in operation for NASA's second exploration mission by 2023. I'm John Russell. Marcia Dunn reported on this story for AP News. John Russell adapted it for Learning English. Caty Weaver was the editor. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story capsule n. a small part of a spacecraft that is separate from the rest of the spacecraft and that is where people live and work stage n. a particular point or period in the growth or development of something sustainable adj. able to last or continue for a long time schedule n. a plan of things that will be done and the times when they will be done dock v. to join together (two spacecraft) while in space We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section. The literary and human rights organization PEN America is honoring three womens rights activists jailed in Saudi Arabia. The group announced recently that they have won the PEN/Barbey Freedom to Write Award. The three are Nouf Abdulaziz, Loujain al-Hathloul, and Eman al-Nafjan. The Associated Press notes that their arrests last year have been condemned around the world. Saudi Arabia says the activists were detained for working to undermine the security of the country. The detainees have openly opposed government policies that they believe restrict womens rights. The PEN award comes at a time of intense international criticism of Saudi Arabia and its Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. In October 2018, Saudi activist and journalist Jamal Khashoggi went missing during a visit to the Saudi embassy in Istanbul. Investigators blame Saudi agents for his disappearance. They say Khashoggi was murdered. Earlier this month, the United Nations Human Rights Council denounced Saudi Arabias continuing arrests and arbitrary detentions of human rights defenders. PEN has long noted that the Freedom to Write Award has been a way of turning advocacy into action. The group says 37 of the past 43 winners have been freed, at least in part because of the attention raised by the prize. It helped me to survive while I was in prison, said Ahmed Naji, who won the award in 2016. He had been imprisoned in Egypt. The writer and journalist now lives in Washington, D.C. PEN officials have not decided who will accept the Freedom to Write Award on behalf of the three Saudi womens rights activists. The PEN awards ceremony will take place in New York City on May 21. I'm Caty Weaver. Hillel Italie reported on this story for The Associated Press. John Russell adapted it for Learning English. George Grow was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section. _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story literary - adj. of or relating to literature undermine - v. to make (someone or something) weaker or less effective journalist n. a reporter; someone working in the news media arbitrary - adj. done without concern for what is fair or right advocacy n. the act of supporting a proposal or cause It is often asserted that the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 proved that HWA was right and he really did see the future. This of course is nonsense. Herbert W. Armstrong said that Christ would return within twenty years in his book Mystery of the Ages. (PCG has since deleted those words so someone in there knows HWA spoke nonsense.) How convenient for them to forget this. Also Herbert W. Armstrong never said the Soviet Union would collapse. He thought it would survive intact until a few years after Christ's return. It shows how biased some many in the COGs are that they never seem to notice this. This inconvenient truth is just tossed into the memory hole. It is true that HWA said that some Eastern European states would break away from Moscow's orbit and join the European Empire he said would arise at any moment. But he never talked of the Soviet Union collapsing. He did not teach that. Also he portrayed the rise of the European Empire to be far quicker then what has actually happened. In Mystery of the Ages Christ was supposed to return by 2005 at the most. So assertions that the fall of the Berlin Wall somehow prove that HWA was right is just complete nonsense spread by people who, for whatever reason, are still in denial that HWA was a false prophet who merely talked out of his own "human reasoning". Weather Alert ...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT CST TONIGHT... * WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 5 inches. * WHERE...Portions of east central and northeast Nebraska and west central Iowa. * WHEN...From 6 AM Friday to midnight CST Friday night. * IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Patchy blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1. && Introducing The Main Index There are now over 43,000 individual posts here on A Light In The Darkness. They have all been individually added into Main Index categories. To get the full experience out of A Light In The Darkness and its very extensive library of items, covering virtually all things paranormal, supernatural etc ... we recommend that you flick down the Main Index, which runs down the right hand side of the blog page ... to find the indexed category in which the subject matter you seek is located. Alternatively, why not use long search bar you will find towards the top of the blog page ... ENJOY Michael-in-Norfolk disclaims any and all responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, completeness, legality, reliability, operability, or availability of information or material displayed on this site and does not claim credit for any images or articles featured on this site, unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to it's respectful owners. Information on this site may contain errors or inaccuracies, and Michael-in-Norfolk does not make warranty as to the correctness or reliability of the site's content. If you own rights to any of the images or articles, and do not wish them to appear on this site, please contact Michael-in-Norfolk via e-mail and they will be promptly removed. Michael-in-Norfolk contains links to other Internet sites. These links are provided solely as a convenience and are not endorsements of any products or services in such sites, and no information or content in such site has been endorsed or approved by this blog. 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. King Mohammed VI has pleaded for empowering African youths, as Africas population is the youngest in the world and as the fast pace of the demographic transition on the continent requires major development projects, especially in such areas as education, health, agriculture, infrastructure and the fight against poverty. African must take up these challenges to ensure its emergence, the King said, noting that 19 is the median age in Africa today. This generation of young people will build the Africa of tomorrow; African youths will contribute to peace, stability and socio-economic development on the Continent, he underlined in a message sent Saturday to the participants in the 5th Crans Montana Forum held in the Moroccan southern city of Dakhla under the theme Building a powerful and modern Africa dedicated to its youth. Our Continent may hold countless promises, but one thing is for sure: Africa is the Continent of all expectations. Above all, our Continent is front and center in the world order. By rising to Africas challenges, the world would be tackling international geostrategic issues, in addition to changes that are currently unfolding. Africas moment has come. This century must be Africas, the Sovereign pointed out in the message that was read out by was read by President of the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab region, Khattat Ynja. However, our youths need to be encouraged, trained, empowered and, above all, valorized. They must be trained to turn todays economic potential into tomorrows reality, he said, warning that failure in this area would be a disaster of epic proportions, not only for Africa but for other regions as well. Touching on illegal migration and the perilous journey some of African youths embark on, seeking a future in other parts of the world, the King said the phenomenon should not be seen as a fatality, or as a sign of a failing Africa. He insisted that African countries common interest lies in working towards the adoption of pertinent, tailored responses so that our young people may realize that their future is in Africa and for Africa. King Mohammed VI who underlined his confidence and strong belief that Africa has a lot to offer and has all it takes to evolve, to engage with the world boldly and resolutely and to change radically, recalled Moroccos commitment to Africa, to active South-South cooperation and to fraternal and mutually beneficial form of solidarity. This commitment is not dictated by circumstances, or by narrow interests. Indeed, I consider that serving Africa our Continent is not only our duty and responsibility, it is also our chance, he said. The King went on to say that guided by this sense of responsibility, Morocco has opted for openness, solidarity and constructive engagement with all its African peers; it has chosen to promote and support peace, stability and security in Africa. I am convinced these are fundamental conditions for the preparation and success of economic and social policies that will guarantee a better, more dignified life for African populations. In keeping with this firm belief, the Kingdom wants to work with African sister nations and with their friends and partners to make the Continent a land of the future. This has been the spirit guiding our action, especially since Morocco returned to its African institutional family. It is up to us to put Africa on a path towards progress and emancipation, and to empower it so that it may hold its rightful place on the global stage, he said, calling for mobilizing all the stakeholders and key players to forge this common destiny one that enables Africa to truly emergence. Pointing out that the current era is characterized by unprecedented upheavals, the Sovereign insisted that the demographic transition, the ecological conversion, the digital revolution and mobility are key drivers of these changes. We must adapt to these new realities and make sure our policies evolve for the good of our people and for the sake of the future of our young people. Important stuff you won't get from the liberal media! We do the surfing so you can be informed AND have a life! Qualcomm Inc. won the first U.S. jury trial in its global dispute with Apple Inc. over how much the iPhone maker should pay for using the chipmakers patented technology. A federal jury in San Diego on Friday awarded Qualcomm about $31.6 million in damages on its patent infringement claims. Qualcomm jumped as much as 3.5 percent before finishing up 2.2 percent at the close in New York trading. The outcome boosts Qualcomms contention that its technology provides significant value to smartphones beyond the basic ability to connect to a telecommunications network. Still, its one small part of a global battle between the companies that is headed for a bigger test next month. Billions of dollars are at stake in that trial, which goes to the heart of the licensing dispute between the tech giants. Qualcomms ongoing campaign of patent infringement claims is nothing more than an attempt to distract from the larger issues they face with investigations into their business practices in U.S. federal court, and around the world, Josh Rosenstock, a spokesman for Apple, said in a statement. While we are disappointed with the outcome, we thank the jury for their service in this case. The disputed patents pertain to technology for graphics processing and battery power conservation, which the San Diego-based company says improve the efficiency and reduce the cost of smartphones. The infringement verdict covers iPhone 7, 8, and X not the latest models. Qualcomm can now ask the judge for an order to halt further infringement of its patents by Apple. U.S. courts have been unwilling to order outright sales bans and favor financial remedies. Todays unanimous jury verdict is the latest victory in our worldwide patent litigation directed at holding Apple accountable for using our valuable technologies without paying for them, Don Rosenberg, Qualcomms general counsel, said in a statement. The technologies invented by Qualcomm and others are what made it possible for Apple to enter the market and become so successful so quickly. While the damages awarded Friday arent significant to either company, from Qualcomms perspective, valuing just three of its more than 10,000 patents at $1.41 per phone shows the overall worth of its inventions. About 1.4 billion smartphones were sold last year, according to IDC. In the broader licensing fight, Qualcomm has lost billions of dollars in revenue after Apple, through its Asian manufacturers, stopped paying patent royalties in 2017. The companies had a falling out in 2016 when Qualcomm which had been the exclusive supplier of iPhone chipsets for five years halted quarterly royalty rebates it had been paying Apple. The chipmaker has said it ended the rebates because Apple instigated antitrust investigations of Qualcomm and lied to regulators. Apple has switched to using Intel Inc. chips in its phones. The Cupertino, California-based company has accused Qualcomm of using its control over so-called standard essential patents, which covers technology uniformly adopted by telecommunications providers and equipment makers, to extract excessive royalties for the entire patent portfolio, including non-essential patents, that it licenses to smartphone makers. In yet another dispute, the Federal Trade Commission accused Qualcomm of monopolist business practices, the initial volley in a web of litigation that now spans 3 continents. A judge in San Jose has yet to rule on the antitrust allegations following a 10-day non-jury trial in January. The case is Qualcomm Inc. v. Apple Inc., 17-cv-01375, U.S. District Court, Southern District of California (San Diego). Now read: Qualcomm puts its patents on the line in Apple trial A screw-like device found in the wreckage of the Boeing Co. 737 Max that crashed last Sunday in Ethiopia indicates the plane was configured to dive, a piece of evidence that helped convince U.S. regulators to ground the model, a person familiar with the investigation said late Thursday night. Federal Aviation Administration chief Daniel Elwell on Wednesday cited unspecified evidence found at the crash scene as part of the justification for the agency to reverse course and temporarily halt flights of Boeings largest selling aircraft. Up until then, American regulators had held off as nation after nation had grounded the plane, Boeings best-selling jet model. The piece of evidence was a so-called jackscrew, used to set the trim that raises and lowers the planes nose, according to the person, who requested anonymity to discuss the inquiry. A preliminary review of the device and how it was configured at the time of the crash indicated that it was set to push down the nose, according to the person, who wasnt authorized to speak publicly about the investigation. The jackscrew, combined with a newly obtained satellite flight track of the plane, convinced the FAA that there were similarities to the Oct. 29 crash of the same Max model off the coast of Indonesia. In the earlier accident, a safety feature on the Boeing aircraft was repeatedly trying to put the plane into a dive as a result of a malfunction. All 157 people aboard Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 died early Sunday shortly after the plane took off. The pilot reported an unspecified problem and was trying to return to the airport. The plane crashed near Addis Ababa, Ethiopias capital. The planes crash-proof recorders have been sent to France to be analyzed. The discovery of the jackscrew was earlier reported by NBC News. Now read: US grounds all Boeing 737 Max 8 planes Theres a new music festival happening in Napa Valley, and if the massive crowds of BottleRock just arent your thing, this one might be for you. An annual event in Hope Town, Bahamas and Cabo, Mexico, Songwriters in Paradise (SIP) is trading beaches for vineyards and coming to wine country. The four-day festival taking place from Thursday, March 21 through Sunday, March 24 will feature acoustic performances by more than 20 of the countrys top songwriters and artists who have penned lyrics for the likes of Jimmy Buffet, The Zac Brown Band, Hootie & The Blowfish, Spin Doctors and more. Songwriters in Paradise founder Patrick Davis is a Nashville-based songwriter who has written songs for big-time artists like Lady Antebellum, Jewel and Hootie & the Blowfish, in addition to producing his own solo albums. He came up with the idea for SIP in 2013 when he was invited to perform at Firefly Sunset Resort in the Bahamas and brought together seven of his music industry friends to play the inaugural event. SIP has since more than doubled in the number performers and events and celebrated its seventh anniversary in February. We took the island from 25 percent capacity that week to 100 percent sold out. Were in deep talks about expanding to two weeks next year, said Davis, who launched SIP in Cabo three years ago. David Duncan, proprietor of Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars, proposed bringing the festival to Napa after meeting Davis at a wedding in Napa several years ago. Their bond was instant. Duncan is a vocalist and plays harmonica in local wine country band, The Silverado Pickups. Once Davis was finally ready to give it a go, everything came together. He was introduced to some of Duncans friends, including fellow bandmate Jeff Gargiulo of Gargiulo Vineyards, and it was a domino effect from there. Just like the music community, the wine community is just very small and everyone knows everybody. It feels very family and very organic, which is something I really love, said Davis. Thats what SIP is. Theres about 20-25 songwriters who come to most events and it feels like a family event. As performers and songwriters, were usually in and out of a location. But with SIP, we can stay together in one place for a six-to eight-day period and now it happens three times a year. SIP Napa concerts will be hosted at four Napa Valley winery locations: Silver Oak, Alpha Omega, Gargiulo and Brasswood. These performances are limited to just a few hundred attendees. SIP concerts are casual and stripped down in order to focus on the songs and lyrics (think, Lady Gaga in A Star is Born versus Lady Gaga at the Super Bowl). Each will have three sets featuring a handful of songwriters seated on the stage at once, taking turns playing songs. Its meant to be a highly intimate, exclusive and unique situation where you get to have a very up close and personal relationship with the music and performers. There isnt much of a barrier between the fan and performer and its a lure for us to interact with the people who are listening, said Davis, who admitted that at most shows, the performers leave almost immediately after. At SIP, were there playing and hanging out for three to four hours at one place with the fans and interacting at every level. Host resort Harvest Inn takes this intimacy one step further. Guests of Harvest Inn during the festival will be hanging out in the same spot as all SIP performers and staff. On Sunday, the resort will host a Charity Karaoke event with free admission to the public. This and other initiatives throughout the weekend will raise money for local charities. They raised close to $60,000 at last months Hope Town festival. SIP Napa is currently selling a limited number of single-event tickets ($300), four-day passes ($1,000) and three-day passes ($800). For more information, visit songwritersinparadise.com. When it comes to the question of how to sell wine in the age of big data, cloud computing, machine learning and assorted other buzzwords, one Napa company is positioning to be the go-to for the answers. But for Emetry (pronounced Emma-tree) that work isnt simply about finding such answers; it also has to build them. Speaking on a recent morning, Emetry CEO Paul Mabray was frank: The reality is the answers Im trying to discover dont exist. From carving out meticulous consumer profiles to macro-level analysis, the company works to find meaningful amounts of data that it can then slice and dice and turn it into an answer, said Mabray, a Napa native who has led Emetry for nearly a year. The company taps into the unknown with pursuits like machine learning to understand a wine club members lifetime value. With club members data at hand, Emetry can trace behaviors like how many times a member has logged into a winerys site, if and when they updated their credit card, if they ordered more wine on top of their shipment, and so on. Knowing this, the company can infer whether a wine club member is going to quit in, say, six months. Mabray can then take the findings to winery clients like Wente or Duckhorn, he said, and ask, What do you want to do? Its month three, theres a canary in the coal mine. Or, the data might project that a club member will stay on with the winery for some time. What do you do as a company? Mabray asks. I provide you a tool that says, This guys going to do this. What do you want to do about that? How can you perpetuate that? Adding to the questions, Emetrys work is also redefining a traditional metric of direct sales called RFM, which basically tallies how recently a consumer bought, how frequently they bought and how much they spent. But, Mabray wonders, Is proximity a factor in that? When you look at it across channels, club and ecommerce, do those play together to create more value? Further, is a consumers value lessened if they go to a winerys site to buy wine? Or is it increased if theyre within a certain proximity? Theres all these questions, said Mabray. And I dont know the answer to that question. But I am suited to go get it. I do have data scientists and cloud computing and all the different, you know, buzzwords you can throw out AI, machine learning. Were using all those tools to find that answer to serve the customer better and to serve the winery better. A mainstay of their work is a collaboration that allows Emetry to buy data from the influential app Delectable. The app lets smartphone users scan wine labels and see reviews and tasting notes from others on the app, as well as critics. But by tracking what wines users are scanning, Emetry can offer a macro-level view that gauges the competition, effectively letting wineries target a given market even more precisely. We think that they provide a value to wineries thats beyond any other app, Mabray said, because they dont compete with wineries. Theyre a media company trying to help them understand what consumers think. In its angling to be the ones wineries call on with their questions, Emetry last month bought a competitor, closing a deal with ZAMapps, another Napa company, for its DTCguru software. Dealing in direct to consumer sales analytics, the software helps to track how consumers are buying in different markets, finding trade hotspots that can then help prioritize accounts for marketers. Were already showing it to our customers and talking about How do we take it to the next level? Mabray said. In the months ahead, the company also has a new software release forthcoming, their biggest yet, Mabray said, and there are plans to buy another competitor or two before the end of the year. Overall, Mabray said, I believe that we want to be the source for all answers that are sales and marketing. Pop the cork on Napa Valley wine! Discover the hidden stories of Napa Valley wine and the people behind it -- plus expert analysis from our columnists and more with our weekly email newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Napa County says major pharmaceutical companies should foot the bill for opioid addiction and overdose treatment which have hit the county hard. Attorneys representing the county wrote in a document filed in an Ohio District Court Wednesday that the county is also seeking money to cover the costs of opioid use education and preventative efforts, and unspecified costs incurred by the county. Lawyers hired to work for the county are working on similar cases for other public agencies and all of those lawsuits are being coordinated in Ohio. Napa County first sued the companies in June and argued the county was hit particularly hard by the nationwide opioid epidemic. The rates of nonfatal opioid-related hospital visits between 2010 and 2014 in Napa County were higher than the alarmingly high statewide rate in California, according to the lawsuit. Prescription opioids are considered by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to be powerful pain-reducing medications with a high potential for abuse. Well-known opioids include OxyContin, Demerol, Vicodin and fentanyl. Research indicates long-term use may increase risk of serious harms. Opioids such as oxycodone, hydromorphone, meperidine and fentanyl are classified by the Drug Enforcement Administration as Schedule II drugs, which are the second-highest on a five-tiered system used to designate the danger of a drug. The use of Schedule II drugs can possibly lead to severe psychological or physical dependence, according to the DEAs website. There were more than 797 opioid prescriptions per 1,000 Napa County residents in years 2010 through 2015, higher than the statewide average of 608 prescriptions per 1,000 residents, according to the lawsuit. The rate of Napa County residents prescribed the equivalent of more than 100 morphine milligrams per day was 36 percent higher than the statewide rate during that same time period. The rate of county residents who were on opioids for 90 days straight was 45 percent higher than the statewide rate from 2010 to 2013, according to the lawsuit. The lawsuit references reports about two Napa doctors found to have overprescribed opioids. Paul Woodward prescribed opioids without a medical reason and prescribed $1.3 million worth of opioids to one patient in four years, federal prosecutors said in 2014. Woodward surrendered his medical license to resolve a disciplinary action taken by the Medical Board of California, according to the boards website. He pled guilty in 2016 to charges of conspiracy to engage in health care fraud and aiding and abetting in attempted distribution of a controlled substance committed in 2010, court records show. He was ordered to pay more than $1 million to the federal government in restitution and sentenced to five years of probation. Eric Grigsby was accused of prescribing high doses of oxycodone to a patient for more than a decade and continuing to do so five years after her family said in 2006 that she was abusing the pills, according to the lawsuit. She became homeless and engaged in self-destructive behaviors as a result, her family said. Grigsbys physician and surgeon license is still active with the Medical Board of California, but the board reprimanded him in 2017 for prescribing high doses of the drug. The board describes the reprimand on its website as a minor violation of the law and Grigsbys attorney said at the time that the settlement was not an admission of guilt. The U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Virginia has accused Purdue Pharma, one of the companies Napa County is suing, of training sales representatives to falsely inform health care providers that OxyContin was difficult to use intravenously, harder to get addicted to, and could be easily and abruptly stopped, according to the lawsuit. Purdue paid physicians in Napa County and elsewhere to participate on speakers bureaus, provide consulting services and more, according to the lawsuit. The same was true for Janssen Pharmaceuticals, another drug company, which made more than 400 payments to Napa County doctors. Between years 2013 and 2016, Purdue also made individual food and beverage payments to county physicians, attorneys wrote. The CEO of Purdue Pharma has announced to media outlets that the company was considering filing for bankruptcy as it potentially faced tens of billions of dollars in payments tied to legal action, The Washington Post reported. Nearly one million Americans aged 25 to 54 werent working in 2015 because they were hooked on opioids, according to an American Action Forum study referenced in the lawsuit. That number grew each year from 1999 to 2015 and is estimated to have cost the American economy a total of $702 billion. The lawyers working with Napa County are Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP, Sanford Heisler Sharp LLP, Casey Gerry Schenk Francavilla Blatt & Penfield LLP, Andrus Anderson LLP, Weitz & Luxenberg P.C. and Renne Public Law Group. The attorneys are also representing Marin, Sonoma, Santa Cruz and Tulare counties, the city of Los Angeles and counties elsewhere. The county will pay them 15 percent of any successful damage payments. 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. Two Napa and Sonoma County restaurant owners have been ordered by the state Labor Commissioners Office to pay an employee $14,000 in back tips that they illegally withheld from the worker. The employee, Tashi Dhondup, immigrated to the U.S. from Tibet three years ago. Dhondup found a job as a server at St. Helenas Himalaya Sherpa Kitchen. Paid $10 an hour, he also received tips from customers. Unfortunately, only about half of those total tips made their way into Dhondups pocket. According to the Labor Commissioner report, business owners Chirring Sherpa and Ngima Sherpa were keeping the other half. I was new to American work regulations and rules, said Dhondup, who is 31. I was making pretty good money, but I didnt know that withholding tips is illegal, he said in an interview. After about seven months of working at the restaurant, and talking with other service industry workers, Dhondup questioned Chirring Sherpa about why he was keeping half his tips. Sherpa told him the owners were entitled to take 50 percent of the tips because they were a family owned business and also did the work of busing tables and serving food, he said. When Dhondup told Sherpa that wasnt fair, he was fired, said the Labor Commissioner report. I was shocked, Dhondup said. Even after that, Dhondup was still willing to settle the issue. He told Chirring Sherpa, If you pay me back, I will forget about what you did. Sherpa refused. When Dhondup filed his case with the labor board, one of the Sherpas offered him $2,500 to settle the claim. I told him, no, I dont want $2,500. I want what you took from me. Neither Sherpa showed up at the Labor Commissioner hearing, and on Feb. 13, Dhondup was awarded $14,000 for unpaid tips between Dec. 2, 2016 and July 15, 2017. As of Tuesday, Dhondup had not yet received the money he is owed. However, on Wednesday, business partner Chirring Sherpa said he had sent the check to the Labor Commissioner that same day. He declined to comment further about his case with Dhondup, only to say, I didnt want to fight with him, anymore. That $14,000 is a lot of money to his family, Dhondup said. Im struggling, he said. I need to support my family. Dhondup and his wife, Rowan Fasi, have a 4-year-old son. The two met about 10 years ago when Fasi traveled from the U.S. to Nepal to study Shedra, a four-year course on Buddhist philosophy and Tibetan language. Today, Fasi and their son live in St. Helena while Dhondup is living with a friend in Richmond and working at a Target. Dhondup had some advice for other workers in his same situation. Know your rights when you take a job, he said. Be smart, he said. Ask for what you deserve. Whats right is right. According to the St. Helena restaurant website, Himalaya Sherpa Kitchens sister restaurants include Yak & Yeti in Napa and Ngima at Sonoma Grille in Sonoma. 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. 11 Things on Sale Youll Actually Want to Buy: From Reformation to Staub See All In Sale A few dozen youths gathered in downtown Napa on Friday afternoon saying their elders need to make drastic policy changes to head off drastic, unwanted climate changes. They stood in front of the county administration building at Third and Coombs streets. They held signs reading The ocean is rising and so are we, and the house is on fire while older climate change prevention activists looked on. We want to make sure leaders are held responsible for making sure our futures are secure, said 17-year-old Shira Sadeh, a New Hampshire resident attending the local Oxbow School. Similar protests were scheduled all over the world. The inspiration came from 16-year-old Greta Thunberg, a Swedish student who has protested climate change inaction on Fridays in front of the Swedish parliament and become an Internet sensation. It was announced this week that she has been nominated for the Nobel Peace prize for her activism efforts. Sixteen-year-old Lainey Laband of Napa High School said shes willing to reduce her own carbon footprint. I recently just got a car, Laband said. But Id like to carpool more often. The car is an older model. It doesnt have the new technology like a Prius. I like to walk and ride my bike. Eighteen-year-old Melissa Cervantes of Napa High School said she attended the event to raise awareness, especially among youth. While most youth know about climate change, they dont know enough about the causes and how to solve the problem, she said. Fridays protests tried to turn up the heat on climate change decision-makers. Meanwhile, the youths elders in Napa County are taking some climate change steps. Napa County last year released a revised draft climate action plan and had announced that a draft environmental impact report on the plan should be released by the end of 2018. That didnt happen. Recent climate change court decisions forced the county to revise the draft environmental impact report, Planning, Building and Environmental Services Director David Morrison said in a Friday email. The tentative release target is now late April. The countys climate action plan, with its proposed carbon-cutting steps, will be only for the unincorporated county. County officials have talked about trying to create a regional climate action plan in coordination with local cities. On Feb. 26, the local group Napa Climate NOW! asked the county Board of Supervisors to adopt a climate emergency resolution. It wants local cities to do the same. None of the jurisdictions to date have done so. You owe it to the next generation to do everything you can about this, Sharon Parham of Napa Climate NOW! told supervisors. Its really serious. Its an emergency. Several dozen youths in the Friday protest in Napa seconded that sentiment. Youth protested in cities ranging from Berlin, Germany to Sydney, Australia. Hundreds of teenagers and young children holding their parents hands marched through downtown San Francisco to demand action against climate change. The group of about 1,000 headed to Sen. Dianne Feinsteins office and chanted, Climate change is not a lie, we wont let our planet die! The march was part of global protests mobilized by students. Before the march, the demonstrators held a rally outside House Speaker Nancy Pelosis San Francisco office to demand she co-sponsor the Green New Deal bill. Associated Press contributed to this story. 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. Penal Code Section 196, enacted in 1872 when California was the nations sparsely populated westernmost frontier, declares that a police officer may lawfully kill someone while arresting persons charged with felony, and who are fleeing from justice or resisting such arrest. Similar laws in other states have been overturned by the courts, but Californias remains intact, described in a legislative report as the single oldest unamended law enforcement use of force statute in the country. In practice, it is the basic reason why Californias police officers are almost never prosecuted when they kill someone, even when the circumstances indicate that deadly force was not needed. This month, Sacramento County District Attorney Anne-Marie Schubert declared that two police officers who, a year earlier, had fired a barrage of bullets at the shadowy figure of Stephon Clark, will not be prosecuted. The two acted lawfully under the circumstances, Schubert said. Three days later, Attorney General Xavier Becerra agreed, saying, Based on our review of the facts and evidence, in relation to the law, Im here to announce today that our investigation has concluded that no criminal charges against the officers involved in the shooting can be sustained. It turned out that Clark, a much-troubled young man who had been vandalizing cars in a South Sacramento neighborhood, was wielding a cell phone, not a gun. Moreover, just eight of the 20 rounds fired at Clark hit their target, which meant those other bullets could have easily killed someone in a neighboring home. Had a civilian done what those two officers did fired multiple rounds blindly at an indistinct figure in a backyard he or she would almost certainly be prosecuted, at least for manslaughter if not for murder. Knowing your target, firing only to protect oneself or another from death or great bodily harm and using minimum force to end the threat are drummed into civilian gun owners during firearms training. Californias police shoot and kill more people than those of any other state 162 in 2017 and, according to a legislative bill analysis, Of the 15 police departments with the highest per capita rates of police killings in the nation, five are in California: Bakersfield, Stockton, Long Beach, Santa Ana and San Bernardino. Police in Kern County have killed more people per capita than in any other US county. The legislative analysis was for Assembly Bill 931, which Assemblywoman Shirley Weber, a San Diego Democrat, carried last year to change the legal standard for police use of deadly force. Instead of the virtually unlimited legal protection that Penal Code Section 196 and other laws give police, Webers bill would allow justified shootings to defend against a threat of imminent death or serious bodily injury to the officer or to another person, with few exceptions. Thats similar to the justified homicide laws governing civilians. Law enforcement organizations bitterly opposed the measure, saying it would put the lives of cops in jeopardy, and Webers bill died in the Senate. Shes back this year with an almost identical measure, Assembly Bill 392, and the Stephon Clark episode, occurring as it did just a few miles from the Capitol, seems to give it a much better chance of passage. Gov. Gavin Newsom and Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg are among those calling for revising Californias use-of-force law. Police work can be very dangerous, to be certain, and most officers are very reluctant to shoot people. However, we are seeing far too many cases of shoot-first-and-ask-questions-later. That might have been acceptable in 1872 California. It cant be in the 21st century. 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. By the time the polls open for the California presidential primary election in March 2020, hundreds of thousands of Democrats will already have voted by mail for candidates who no longer are in the race. Within two weeks after the California primary, while late absentee ballots and provisional ballots are still being counted, other candidates will drop out, rendering the votes of more Californians irrelevant. Its all because the state once again moved its primary election earlier in the process in a quest to recapture the clout it once had. That clout came from the winner-take-all nature of the process, when a first-place finisher would walk off with all the states hundreds of delegates. That no longer is allowed. How the delegates will be apportioned in 2020 has not yet been finally set, according to party officials. But it is likely to be based on how candidates perform in each of the states 53 congressional districts, as has been the case in recent years. Heres how the situation shapes up for 2020: Election Day in California will be March 3. Absentee ballots will arrive in voters homes beginning Feb. 3. The next day, Iowa will hold its first-in-the-nation caucuses. Eight days later, New Hampshire will hold a primary election. Nevada Democrats will caucus Feb. 22 and South Carolina will hold a primary on Feb. 29. As has been the case in recent years, poor showings in the early contests will cause some candidates to withdraw, but their names will remain on the California ballot and they already will have received votes from absentee voters. Eight other states will vote the same day as California and nine more states are scheduled to vote within two weeks after. At each stop, additional candidates will withdraw and the votes of more Californians will have been cast for candidates who pulled out before or soon after Californians vote. To compound the issue, absentee voting is all but certain to reach new heights in 2020. Perhaps as much as 60 percent of the Democratic ballots cast will be sent by mail. In some counties there will be no other way to vote. Early indications are that 10 or more candidates will qualify for the California Democratic Primary ballot. As many as half of them can be expected to drop out before all the ballots are counted in California, perhaps even more. California last moved to an earlier primary in February 2008. There were eight candidates on the Democratic ballot, including five who had dropped out. Their total of 280,316 votes represented 5.21 percent of the Democrats who voted in that election. In 2004 the election was held in March. Five of nine candidates on the ballot already had withdrawn, taking with them nearly 9 percent of the votes cast. In 2000, the election was in March with just three candidates. Then Vice President Al Gore won easily, and in 1996 President Bill Clinton cruised through a March California Primary on his way to re-election. The California conundrum comes down to this: vote early and know the votes of large numbers of people will count for nothing, or vote later and have a tremendous amount of clout if the race is still unsettled, or none at all if any candidate has garnered enough delegates in earlier-voting states to secure the partys presidential nomination. By continually moving the primary election date, the Legislature is attempting to hit the moving target of relevance based on circumstances that can neither be controlled or known. But if the past is any guide to the future, we can expect them to continue to try. Larry Levine is a Democratic consultant in Los Angeles. He wrote this commentary for CALmatters, a public interest journalism venture committed to explaining how Californias Capitol works and why it matters. While operating under the name Democrat Party of California our legislature has become more progressive and in line with the national socialistic-democratic leaders. Our government leaders have proposed regulations that would end public utilities and private automobiles which rely on fossil fuels. They have proposed ending local city and county governments ability to plan, zone and permit housing in favor of decisions made in Sacramento. California voters missed an opportunity to repeal billions of dollars in tax hikes on gasoline and raise registration fees during the 2018 election. This was partially influenced by the politically motivated voter handbook description that indicated the repeal would decrease funding for road repairs. Actually much of the funding provided for road repairs in the past has been routinely hijacked for other uses by our government officials. Democrats in both chambers of the Legislature wield two-thirds super majorities that allow them to pass new measures, including taxes, without Republican support; pickups of longstanding GOP seats have given them votes to spare. Three quarters of Assembly members are Democrats; there are so few Republicans that becoming the leader of the state Senate GOP caucus would require the support of just five colleagues. This situation leads to what I consider to be legislative abuses in California. For example, would a super majority of California residents actually cast votes for; California becoming a sanctuary state? Licensing and registering illegal immigrants, thus allowing them to vote, at the DMV? The problem for the more conservative candidates in 2020 in California will be that big business, large corporate and personal donors, will be forced to fund campaigns for the Democrats and will be bullied if they give anything to a Republican. Obviously, the reality and dynamics of two party campaigning has changed in California. Jack Gray, Director Napa County Taxpayers Association The Indian army has completed a counter-insurgency drive against the Arakan Army (AA), now the strongest rebel group fighting for autonomy in Myanmars troubled Rakhine province. At least three AA camps in Chhimtuipui district of Indias northeastern state of Mizoram have been hit, Indian army sources said. But details of casualties or arrests were not readily available. Indian military officials are tight-lipped about the operation. But one senior Indian army officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Northeast Now that the operation was reciprocal, suggesting a return of favour for the Burmese military operation against northeast Indian rebel bases in Myanmars Sagaing province in early February. It took place in the last week of February and continued until mid March, he said. Burmese military sources say they were aware of the Indian military operation in Mizorams remote Chhimtuipui district bordering Myanmars Chin state. The Arakan Army has recently taken prisoner 11 Burmese soldiers and seized weapons following a weekend clash in Chin states Paletwa township, which abuts the volatile Rakhine state. This follows a deadly ambush by the rebel group earlier this month in which 9 Burmese policemen were killed and another pipe-bomb blast that killed the wife of a Burmese military officer. AA spokesman Khine Thukha told mediapersons that the guerrillas of his group captured the Burmese soldiers after overrunning a hill feature near Paletwas Pyan So village on March 9. He said the soldiers were from Light Infantry Battalion 563 based in Rakhines Gwa township and stationed in Paletwa under the command of Light Infantry Division 5, he said. More than 20 Burmese soldiers and policemen have been killed in recent weeks in attacks by the Arakan Army , which is said to have bases in Indias Mizoram state and Bangladeshs Chittagong Hill Tracts. Burmese troops hit Northeast Indian rebels In early February, the Burmese army attacked several bases of northeast Indian rebels in Myanmars Sagaing province. While the fighters of National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN)s Khaplang group did not resist the Burmese army , those from the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) fought and lost one major Jyotirmoy Asom and three fighters in a brief gunbattle . Some NSCN-Khaplang group leaders have been taken into custody and told not to carry out any hostile action against India or back any anti-Indian rebel group. The NSCN-Khaplang faction has attacked Indian security forces since it reneged on a ceasefire agreement with India in 2015. There has been a spate of surrenders from the rebel ranks in the northeast Indian states of Assam and Manipur after the Burmese military action. Surgical strike The Indian army conducted a trans-border surgical strike, against a NSCN-K base in 2016 after eighteen Indian soldiers were killed in a deadly ambush by its guerrillas. The faction, led by Burmese Naga leaders, also put together a coalition of four anti-Indian rebel groups from the countrys troubled Northeast and offered them bases in Sagaing. NSCN-K leaders say they did not resist the Burmese military because they want to be part of the nationwide ceasefire in Myanmar and continue negotiations for greater autonomy of the countrys Naga self-administered zone in Sagaing province. Indian military officials say the Burmese military operation in Sagaing has unsettled the northeastern rebel groups, leading to sporadic surrenders and a drop in their hostile activity. Analysts say this is perhaps the first time Indian and Burmese armies are operating in tandem, targeting other-country bases of separatist rebels fighting their forces. India would welcome any drop in rebel activity in Northeast at a time its forces are hard pressed in Kashmir, while the Burmese would welcome military pressure on the Arakan Army to curb the rising spate of their offensive actions, said Major General Gaganjit Singh, former deputy chief of Defense Intelligence Agency. The Burmese army attacked Naga and Mizo separatists from India in the 1960-70s when they tried reaching China for training through its territory. China not only backed the Indian rebels but also those from the now defunct Burmese Communist Party. But after India backed the Burmese democracy movement in the 1980s, the Myanmar army stopped targeting the northeast Indian rebels. Indian intelligence developed close ties with Kachin , Chin and Arakanese rebels in Myanmar to prevent them from supporting northeast Indian rebels at that time. But since 1998, the two armies have slowly tried to developed closer military ties, with the Burmese army (known as Tatmadaw in Myanmar) looking to India for training, military hardware and closer counter-insurgency cooperation. This despite China being the main supplier of military hardware for the Tatmadaw. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has recently issued a weather forecast that thunder squall accompanied with lightning of potential impacts to occur at isolated places over Assam & Meghalaya on March 5 and 6, 2019. The Weather Channels also predicted rain or snow accumulation in the east and Northeast India till Thursday evening. The fury of nature has been left many parts of Northeastern region of India in tatters. Incessant rainfall in most areas of Garo Hills in Meghalaya has left a trail of destruction with houses, schools and trees strewn in the aftermath of its destruction. While some districts of Assam and West Meghalaya have been partially affected, the worst affected has been the districts of North and East Garo Hills in the state of Meghalaya. Most lightning deaths and injuries occur when people are caught outdoors in the summer months during the afternoon and evening. Death from lightning strikes is now one of the most discussed issues in the country as majority of the victims are the lone bread earners of their families. The maximum lightning incidents in the entire Indian subcontinent occurs in central Bangladesh and the states of Meghalaya, West Bengal and Assam during the pre-monsoon season (March-May) with 40 lightning strikes per square kilometre. The data of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) says lightning kills more people in India than any other natural calamity. According to a 2014 NCRB report, out of 20,201 accidental deaths attributable to natural causes, 12.8 per cent were due to lightning strike. In Bangladesh the lighting strike death toll is unbelievable. On last May 2018, 29 people have died from lightning in 12 districts in 24 hours and almost all of them are farmers. Earlier at least 12 people died in March and 58 people died in April 2018 in parts of Bangladesh, according to government data. In the last two days of April last year, as many as 33 people died as storms swept across the country, said Disaster Management Minister Mofazzal Hossain Chowdhury Maya. The number of deaths was 160 in 2015, 170 in 2014, 185 in 2013, 201 in 2012 and 179 in 2011. Lightning poses a major threat as an increasing number of people are losing life due to the natural disaster every year, experts say. Scores of people die every year after being struck by lightning during the rainy season in Bangladesh, which runs from April to October, but officials say the numbers are exceptionally high this year. Every day 10-12 people are dying from lightning strike. Authorities declared lightning strike a natural disaster after 82 people were killed in a single day in May 2016. Independent monitors estimated that some 349 Bangladeshis died from lightning that year. In Bangladesh, the thunderstorm usually occurs from March to May but sometimes it takes place until October or November. Owing to sudden change in weather, heavy rain and strong gales occurred in the Bay of Bengal. That had caused the lightning strikes and loss of lives in India as well. The entire Bay of Bengal, a part of Assam, Meghalaya and West Best Bengal are prone to lightning because of its complex topography. Studies have showed thunderstorms are very frequent during the pre-monsoon season in northeastern India and Bangladesh. They are especially distinctive by their nature and severity compared to other thunderstorms, which occur over some other regions or during some other seasons. Is climate change is responsible? Now most of scientists believe that with the increase in global temperature, the intensity of thunderstorms and lightning will increase more. The thundercloud formation because of excess heat over Bangladesh is resulting in thunderbolts and lightning, particularly in the regions where water bodies are high, such as Haor areas. The wind convergence results in an active convection which is the upward movement of warm and moist air. The subsequent instability results in widespread precipitation with chances of thunderstorms. According to Prof Rashid, the temperature rose in April in Bangladesh, which has caused water vaporize and leads to rain, clouds, and lightning. Bangladesh is witnessing increasing numbers of casualties from lightning, a natural disaster, for the last few days, mainly because of the rise in temperature that is leading to formation of upper air circulation in the geographical region, experts say. The geographical location of Bangladesh with the Himalayas in the north, the Bay of Bengal in the south, as well as the Indian Ocean and Arabian Ocean in surrounding areas, is adding to the creation of thunderstorms in the country. It is to be noted that Northeast India, together with Bangladesh, is one of the most thunderstorm-prone regions in the world. This was found by Tetsuya Fujita of the University of Chicago in 1973. Fujita along with Allen Pearson had developed the Fujita Pearson Scale for measuring damage caused by tornados. Of all the severe thunderstorm events in the Northeast region during the 55 years of study period, about 30 per cent of the events resulted from squalls (noreasters), with hail and lightning accounting for 18 per cent and 10 per cent of all recorded events. While severe thunderstorms can develop at any time of the year, over half of the severe thunderstorm events occurred in the region during March, April and May, peaking during the latter months. A secondary peak in severe thunderstorm events occurs in September, and is likely due to the impact of tropical cyclones or their remnants flowing from the warm waters of the Bay of Bengal. The data compiled by the ICRC on the occurrence of severe thunderstorm incidents show that they are first seen on an isolated day in the month of February under the influence of a western disturbance, and it becomes a familiar feature during the hot afternoons of April to May to early morning hours of the next days. Summer monsoon season with 60 per cent incidents is the most favoured time of the year for occurrence of lightning strikes in Assam, followed by pre-monsoon season with 32 per cent of the incidents. During the 55-year study period, it was found that 22 people died on an average per year from severe thunderstorm hazards in Northeast India. More than 60 per cent of these death cases were due to lightning. In general, severe thunderstorm impacts like loss of life and injury, loss of livelihood and damage to infrastructure are significantly more on impoverished and vulnerable rural population in the western part of Assam. According to Rahul Mahanta of Cotton University, a total 454 cloud and ground (CG) lightning strikes were observed in Assam during the entire period of their study, with a mean of 12.6 CG lightning strikes per year. The total climatology of lightning activity showed that the western region of Assam experiences higher lightning activity. The minimum lightning activity is found to be occurring in northeastern and eastern parts of the region. Another study published in the International Journal of Climatology in September 2015, which was carried out by Hupesh Choudhury, Partha Roy, Sarbeswar Kalita and Sanjay Sharma states that during the pre-monsoon season, the frequency of lightning is quite significant in the Northeast due to the interaction of moisture-laden wind with the complex topography of the region. The Meghalaya plateau and foothills of Patkai hill range, in particular, experience severe lightning. Iqbal R Tinmaker and Kaushar Ali of the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology finds almost same result attributed to space time variation of lightning activity over Northeast India. They revealed lightning flash rate density is maximum over the west of northeast India. The study, published in Meteorologische Zeitschrift in April, 2012, said this high flash rate density is attributed to the topography and the geography of the region, along with the moisture availability. The 2014 report published by Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said the highest number of thunderstorms in each month of the storm period (March 15 to June 15, 2014) were recorded in Assam, followed by Arunachal Pradesh in March, Meghalaya in April and Tripura in May and June. During the entire period, the frequency was highest during night (30 per cent) followed by evening (21 per cent). Lighting casualties are increasing because of lack of awareness among people. We find that many illiterate people still believe lighting as well as thunderstorm to be a super-natural phenomenon or Gods fury. Awareness is very important to reduce the toll and its harmful impact. Routine research works involving government and NGO and government regulation are needed mitigate the menace. The Bangladesh government is deeply concerned about the peril of such incidents. However, Assam as well as Meghalaya government seem quite indifferent to it. Mohan Kumar Das, senior research fellow of the Institute of Water and Flood Management (IWFM) at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (Buet), said deaths from lighting could also be avoided if people take some cautious steps according to BMD. Despite being the most lightning-prone zone in the Northeast, Assam does not have any separate programme to create awareness among the people about lightning and TS. The state revenue and disaster management authority does not have any separate campaign for lightning. In order ensure discipline and maintain a clean, hygienic ambience in all corners of the headquarters of the ruling National Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), the party has issued an advisory. According to the advisory, the entire area of the NDPP head office at Chumukedima in Nagalands Dimapur, has been declared a No Tobacco Zone with immediate effect. Smoking has also been strictly prohibited in the entire complex. Chewing pan, taking gutkha, pan masala and all forms of tobacco in any form and spitting on the sidewalks, toilets, wash basins or within the NDPP head office complex have been strictly prohibited. Use of one-time plastic is also to be discouraged in line with the State governments announcement of plastic free Nagaland, the advisory said. All members of the NDPP have been asked to abide by the advisory. The advisory, issued by T.L. Merry, general secretary, attached to the president of the NDPP, stated that these are in line with the partys constitution of being a political party which is regional in character, national in outlook and takes up policies and programmes with a global outlook. We have to have our own contributions in ensuring that we all play a role towards global and environrnental responsibilities, stated Merry in the advisory. Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), which was formed in October 2017, was earlier known as the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). The party was formed by rebels belonging to the Naga Peoples Front (NPF), who support Neiphiu Rio, the chief minister of Nagaland. Neiphiu Rio joined the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party in January 2018 after the NPF broke its ties with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ahead of the 2018 Nagaland Legislative Assembly polls. The NDPP, which formed alliance with the BJP, leads the coalition government in Nagaland. Head of the Central Information Department of the Office of the Artsakh Republic President - deputy head of the Artsakh Republic President's Office, David Babayan said in an interview with Armenian News-NEWS.am. Involvement of Nagorno-Karabakh in negotiation process was the recent number one issue. What are the official Stepanakert approaches in this regard? The approaches of the official Stepanakert in this matter remain unchanged. It is impossible to achieve a final and comprehensive settlement of the Azerbaijani-Karabakh conflict without the participation of the Republic of Artsakh at all stages of the negotiation process. If we do not restore a full-fledged negotiation format, then the only result of the peace process can only be the maintenance of stability and peace in a strategically important Transcaucasian region. Recently, the idea of a certain revision or reassessment of the principles of settlement and well-known elements has been increasingly voiced. What is this about? I do not think that the fundamental principles of the settlement can be revised. Fundamental elements such as the peaceful settlement, the right of people to self-determination and recognition of the fact of such self-determination, the territorial integrity of the state will always remain the fundamental components of the settlement process. But the parties to the conflict have a diametrically opposed vision of these principles. Can it be considered that the positions of the Armenian sides began to diverge from the positions of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs on the holistic approach towards the three principles and the right of peoples to self-determination? The Minsk Group co-chairs have repeatedly stated that they are not judges. They are mediators in resolving the most complicated conflict. Therefore, the main direction of their activities is to contribute to bringing the parties together, as well as to contribute to maintaining stability and security in the region. As I have already said, Azerbaijan has diametrically opposed positions on the one hand, Artsakh and Armenia on the other. What do you think about handing over the liberated territories? Will such a scenario launch a new aggression? There can be no return to the past, neither in the matter of borders, nor status. Moreover, I am deeply convinced that security is a key component for Karabakh.Even internationally recognized status of an independent state, cannot ensure our security. The last decades have revealed a number of such precedents. Consequently, the future of our people and its statehood, both in Artsakh and in the Republic of Armenia, will be very deceptive without the proper level of security, which will be ensured by our own efforts. One of the main aspects in this context is the borders of Artsakh. You vividly show the results of Bakus policy of pressure on Karabakh in your Hydropolitics of the Azerbaijan-Karabakh Conflict book. In your opinion, what could be the consequences if the sources of the rivers feeding Armenia and Karabakh are in the hands of the adversary? This is one of the most vivid examples of what may happen to Artsakh and Armenia if the security system of our country is weakened. Azerbaijan, of course, will immediately begin to exert pressure, while not disdaining the most inhuman methods, such as hydroterrorism. Azerbaijan resorted to such methods many times, that we have not forgotten and should never forget. Do you think that Armenian sides pay enough attention to the occupation of Karabakh territories by Azerbaijan? We constantly raise these issues when we meet with the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs and at various international platforms. Although, I think that it is necessary to pay more attention to this issue in the internal media space, public, scientific and analytical circles. A little about domestic policy in Artsakh. Recently you have created Conservative party of Artsakh in the 2020 parliamentary elections. How do you see the work in the legislature before the elections and after? Naturally, rather big and laborious, as well as very responsible and interesting work should be done. We have the will, energy, willingness to work in this direction. What are the main social problems of Artsakh? And how to solve them? Problems are a very dynamic phenomenon. They are, were, will always be in any country and society.Moreover, the solution of one issue also creates new problems and the need to find ways to solve them. The formula for effectively solving any, even the most complex problems, consists of a number of components, where the key role are played by professionalism, honesty, decency, a compassionate attitude towards the country and the people, as well as optimism and unshakable will. First meeting within scope of '3+3' regional platform held in Moscow NEWS.am daily digest: 10.12.21 Armenia soldier killed while resisting Azerbaijanis' attack, 8 are injured, 6 of whom are in severe condition Armenia PM introduces new Head of State Supervision Service Romanos Petrosyan Armenia human rights activists: There were cases when POWs were brought to territory under Azerbaijan's control The book Capitalism and Freedom by Milton Friedman was translated and published on the initiative of Ardshinbank Armenia regional governor, IFRC Secretary General discuss return of Armenian POWs originally from Shirak Province Armenia human rights activist: Number of Armenian POWs in Azerbaijan is 80 more than the confirmed one Pashinyan: Environmental sphere is of strategic importance for Armenia Armenia President: We must understand that we are entering completely different era for humanity Dollar goes up somewhat in Armenia Armenia State Revenue Committee chief meets with French Development Agency Regional Director Opposition 'Armenia' faction MPs Artur Sargsyan and Mkhitar Zakaryan released from penitentiary institution Head of Armenia's Norabak village: Azerbaijan has military post that is 2 km from us Armenia finance minister receives France Ambassador and French Development Agency Regional Director Armenia opposition MP Ishkhan Zakaryan leaving 'With Honor' faction Russian and Armenian Deputy FMs meet in Moscow Armenia PM highlights importance of speedy conclusion of full-format agreement between Iran and EEU Armenia opposition MPs Mkhitar Zakaryan and Artur Sargsyan to be released without court decision today Armenian opposition MP Armen Charchyan is released Armenia MOD: Armenian side has one casualty, few soldiers are injured, exchange of fire is over Armenias Pashinyan: High-tech component development also important in Eurasian integration context Armenia Deputy PM dismisses his two assistants Nazarbayev says Azerbaijan can become observer country in Eurasian Economic Union Head of Armenia village: The Azerbaijanis tried to advance in direction of Sotk, but our soldiers didn't let them Armenia MOD: Azerbaijan attacked in eastern direction of border Special court hearing underway on case of Armenia opposition lawmaker behind bars Artsakh officials visit Stepanakert memorial 2 more die of coronavirus in Karabakh Vardenis protesters dismiss Armenia MOD statement on obstructing car taking wounded soldier to Yerevan Armenia FM briefs Francophonie chief on regional security issues (PHOTOS) Armenia Police: 13 people apprehended near MFA building Armenia protesting residents reopen Martuni-Vardenis motorway due to border tension Armenia parliament passes changes to some laws Armenia MOD: Deputy commander was told in Vardenis that car taking wounded soldier to Yerevan would be obstructed 347 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia Armenia opposition movement staging protest inside MFA building Armenia has new environment minister Artsakh MFA: Referendum on independence is solid legal basis for statehood Special court session to be held on case of imprisoned Armenia opposition MP Biden promises Zelenskyy to punish Russia in case of invasion of Ukraine Newspaper: Armenia parliament recent fight case to have former ones fate Newspaper: What is reason for recent long visit to Armenia by ex-commander of Russia peacekeepers in Artsakh? Petition to arrest one of accused Armenia soldiers returned from Azerbaijan captivity is granted Russian Aerospace Forces consider practice of reconnaissance and strike UAVs during Karabakh conflict Investigative Committee: Motion filed for arrest of 5 of 10 POWs returned to Armenia on Dec. 4 Armenia State Revenue Committee chief hosts Iran Customs Administration head Armenia Shirak Province ex-deputy governor Boris Aleksanov dies Constitutional Court announces decision on release of arrested MPs of opposition 'Armenia' parliamentary faction Iran, Azerbaijan discuss cooperation in petrol and natural gas sectors Lavrov: We understand the complexity of the situation in Armenia, but it's not right to speculate Russia's role Cem Ozdemir who initiated adoption of Armenian Genocide resolution is Germany's first minister with migration history Armenia FM, France Secretary of State sign 'Roadmap for Armenian-French Economic Cooperation' Armenia PM scheduled to deliver speech at Summit for Democracy on Dec. 10 Zakharova says news about recall of Russia's Ambassador to Armenia is misinformation Opposition 'Armenia' Alliance: 3 deputies of parliamentary faction will be released Attorney: MP Armen Charchyan needs to be released immediately by virtue of Armenia Constitutional Court decision Armenia ex-environment minister Romanos Petrosyan appointed Head of State Supervision Service Armenia MOD: 2 Armenian soldiers receive slight firearm injuries as a result of Azerbaijanis' provocation NEWS.am daily digest: 09.12.21 Zakharova: Moscow hopes Armenia and Azerbaijan leaders reaffirm commitment to implementing agreements Zakharova on Aliyev's statement and murders of Armenian peaceful civilians Ex-chief advisor to Armenia PM Hakob Simidyan appointed Minister of Environment Joe Biden's Summit for Democracy kicks off, Armenia PM is also participating Armenia environment minister sacked Residents of Armenia's Vardenis shut down Martuni-Vardenis road in support of opposition alliance's leader (PHOTOS) Armenia MOD: Azerbaijan opened intense fire toward Gegharkunik Province military positions Armenia President meets with Emir of Qatar Azerbaijan opened fire on Artsakh village tractor operator, says Machkalashen mayor Parliament ruling majority obstructs decriminalizing severe insult in Armenia Armenia deputy defense minister: No group has come from Moscow for demarcation Armenia parliament approves several amendments to laws in first reading Ambassador: American Studies center at YSU will play important role in deepening relations with Armenia Armenia Parliament Speaker receives IFRC Secretary General-led delegation Armenia PM receives IFRC Secretary General Dollar still gaining more value in Armenia Armenia Parliament Speaker sues opposition MP Aregnaz Manukyan for previous allegations Law will lead to positive changes in Armenia universities administration, says US ambassador Georgia formally refuses attending '3+3' regional cooperation platform meeting Armenia MFA officials pay tribute to innocent victims of genocides 2 Azerbaijanis killed in mine explosion near Karabakh's Karin Tak village MFA: Armenia will continue to work diligently to raise awareness of genocides American Studies center to open at Yerevan State University Gerasimov: Russian military in Karabakh working to restore peaceful life in region Armenia opposition MP: Authorities present at household level establishment technical furnishing on frontline Bomb threat in Yerevan building Armenia: 6,500 people in border communities to receive cash for winter needs Armenia government restricts access to open information from gov.am, govtravel.am 1 more person dies of coronavirus in Karabakh Armenia envoy, US congresswoman discuss situation after 44-day Artsakh war All Azerbaijan soldiers captured in Karabakh have been returned, says Rustam Muradov Armenia legislature approves 2022 draft state budget Armenia wounded soldier undergoes surgery 300 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia Turkey MFA: First meeting of 3+3 format on South Caucasus to be held Friday, Armenia will also participate Armenia parliament to convene special session on December 15 MOD: Azerbaijan army opened fire on Armenia positions late Wednesday night Newspaper: Number of deaths in Armenia rise sharply this year Newspaper: Armenia PM asks for political, propaganda support from extra-parliamentary political forces Meta plans to fully reopen its US offices in January The Goa Congress has staked claim to form government in the state, following the death of former Goa deputy chief minister and BJP lawmaker Francis D'Souza. In a letter to the Governor Mridula Sinha, the party has demanded dismissal of the Manohar Parrikar-led government in the state. The strength of Goa Assembly has reduced from 40 to 37 after the death of BJP lawmaker and resignation of two MLAs -Subhash Shirodkar and Dayanand Sopte. Currently, the Congress party has 14 MLAs, while the BJP has 13 MLAs. The Lok Sabha elections 2019 have been scheduled to start from April 11 and will go on till May 19. With little time left to woo voters, parties have increased their activities, with prominent leaders holding several rallies every day. From public rallies to workers' meetings, big leaders of the national as well as state parties are leaving no stone unturned to ensure victory in the polls. BusinessToday.In brings complete timeline of all the updates related to the General Elections 2019 through our blog. 10.00pm: Kajal Nayak, a transgender from Odisha to participate as the candidate of BSP from Jajpur, in the upcoming state elections. Odisha: Kajal Nayak, a 27-year-old transgender, would contest from the Korei Assembly seat in Jajpur district as the candidate of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in the upcoming state elections. pic.twitter.com/JxOl3AHbFh - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 9.30pm: Chandrababu Naidu says that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is chowkidar for corrupts like Jagan Mohan Reddy. PM is chowkidar for corrupts like Jagan Mohan Reddy: Chandrababu Naidu Read @ANI story | https://t.co/Mo6ntLZtwmpic.twitter.com/p5s9AJ1Y9U - ANI Digital (@ani_digital) March 16, 2019 9.00pm: Apna Dal's Krishna Patel faction joins hands with Rahul Gandhi's Congress alliance for 2 Lok Sabha seats- Gonda and Basti in Uttar Pradesh. Apna Dal's Krishna Patel faction joins Congress alliance for 2 Lok Sabha seats- Basti and Gonda in Uttar Pradesh. Pankaj Niranjan Singh Chandel, son-in-law of Krishna Patel, has taken membership of the Congress pic.twitter.com/NGBoxzQaol - ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 16, 2019 8.40pm: PMModi and BJP President Amit Shah hold CEC meeting with Assam leaders. Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah hold Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting with Assam leaders pic.twitter.com/lTfGWzOnWn - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 The provision, a fixed a timeline for the release of the manifesto by political parties, will be applicable for all future elections, says Election Commission of India. Election Commission of India has fixed a timeline for the release of manifesto by political parties. Manifestos for both single and multi phase elections shall not be released during prohibitory period, as prescribed under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 pic.twitter.com/Cn9DCwFr8Z - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 Launching his campaign for the April 11 Lok Sabha and State assembly polls after offering prayers at the Lord Venkateswara shrine, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu mounted a strong attack on the YSR Congress alleging it was colluding with the BJP-led NDA and the Telangana Rashtra Samithi against his government. 7:40pm: Mahagathbandhan in Bihar: The grand alliance to announce seat sharing for Lok Sabha elections on March 18, said Hindustani Awami Morcha (Secular) president Jitan Ram Manjhi on Saturday. 7:30pm: Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh has triggered a fresh political storm by comparing Prime Minister Narendra Modi with dictators Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini, adding that the world needs leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King. The former Madhya Pradesh chief minister said that the world needs leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King. I totally agree with Rahul ji. World needs the Doctrine of Love Peace and Compassion promoted by Sanatan Dharm Gautam Budha and Mahavir and not that of Hatred and Violence. We need Mahatma Gandhis Martin Luther Kings and not Hitlers Mussolinis and Modis. https://t.co/Q9Ay0Ro5Tj - digvijaya singh (@digvijaya_28) March 16, 2019 7:25pm: TDP MLC Aadala Prabhakar Reddy, who got confrmed MLA ticket from Nellore Rural assembly constituency, joined to the opposition YSR Congress on Saturday. Later in the day, TDP MP from Kurnool Bhutta Renuka also joined YSRCP in the presence of the party chief Jaganmohan Reddy. 7:20pm: The Congress party is all set to lose the status of opposition party in Telangana state assembly following the defection of three more MLAs to the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), Hindustan Times reported. According to a TRS leader familiar with the development, at least four more Congress MLAs are expected to join the TRS in a day or two, it reported. 7:10pm: Nitin Bhansali, Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (JCC) Spokesperson, quits the party. (file pic) pic.twitter.com/UD8913MHCF - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 7:05pm: Goa BJP has called for a meeting of its MLAs in Panaji office today, ANI reported. 7:00pm: Prakash Ambedkar, Vanchit Bahujan Aaghadi (VBA): We requested them (AIMIM) that they should contest one seat in Mumbai (North Central) where Poonam Mahajan is sitting MP. They said we'll consider it. After their decision, we will announce on rest of the seats (11). https://t.co/nkwhgUSWPa - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 6:55pm: Delhi BJP writes to Election Commission requesting it to "appoint Special Observer for the mosques especially in Muslim dominated areas so that political/religious leaders cannot spread hate among people to influence elections". ANI reported. 6:50pm: Police busted an inter-state gang in Aligarh and arrested 9 criminals. It also seized country-made pistols, knifes, stolen mobiles & bikes from them. Aligarh: Police busted an inter-state gang and arrested 9 criminals; seized country-made pistols, knifes, stolen mobiles & bikes from them. Police say, "they used to travel by motorcycle & snatch cell phones. 18 stolen cell phones recovered from them" pic.twitter.com/mdu67SAERT - ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 16, 2019 6:40pm: BJP MP and Union minister Uma Bharti has announced that she doesn't want to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. In a series of tweets, Uma Bharti said that she has formally written to party president Amit Shah in this regard, wishes to spend time on the Ganges. 6:35pm: The Congress party has written to Governor Mridula Sinha and staked claim to form government in Goa, following the death of a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA. Former Goa deputy chief minister and BJP lawmaker Francis D'Souza died in February. Congress stakes claim to form government in Goa; writes to Governor to dismiss BJP-led govt which is in "minority" & call "single-largest party Congress to form govt".Also states in its letter, "any attempt to bring Goa under President's rule will be illegal & will be challenged" pic.twitter.com/EZ125NRO0a - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 6:30pm: PM Modi arrives at BJP headquarters for the party's CEC meeting. Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at BJP headquarters for the party's Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting; received by BJP President Amit Shah pic.twitter.com/xn7rk5GGgR - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 6.00pm: BJP's next CEC meeting to be held on 18th March, 2019. Sources: Next BJP Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting to be held on 18th March https://t.co/NllDRpuwhO - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 5.45pm: Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley also arrive at BJP headquarters for the party's CEC meeting in Delhi. Delhi: Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Home Minister Rajnath Singh arrive at BJP headquarters for the party's Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting. pic.twitter.com/lf2JrEmNFa - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 5.30pm: Sushma Swaraj, Kiren Rijiju, and former CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan arrive at BJP headquarters for the party's Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting to discuss candidates for Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Tripura, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Bihar, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and Andaman & Nicobar islands. Delhi: Union Ministers Sushma Swaraj, Kiren Rijiju, and former MP CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan arrive at BJP headquarters for the party's Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting. pic.twitter.com/GZFhMF386q - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 5.10pm: Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, along with his family, visited Tirupati Balaji Temple. Tirupati: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu with his family visited Tirupati Balaji Temple earlier today pic.twitter.com/L54Fvcczgr - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 4.40pm: Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath requested Digvijaya Singh that 'if he wants to contest Lok Sabha polls, then he should do so from the toughest seat.' However, Nath didn't mention any particular seat. (PTI) 4.10pm: 'BJP has been pressurizing EC to stop flow of KALIA assistance to farmers in Odisha, ' Biju Janata Dal mentioned to State Chief Electoral officer in a written letter. Biju Janata Dal writes to State Chief Electoral Officer stating that 'BJP has been pressurizing Election Commission to stop flow of KALIA assistance being provided to over 20 lakh farmers in #Odisha. The party should not be allowed to stop it.' pic.twitter.com/DQ1nVAACte - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 3.40pm: Communist Party of India releases the first list of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections 2019. Communist Party of India (Marxist) releases first list of seats for the #LokSabhaElections2019. pic.twitter.com/0PrbhOR0c5 - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 3.00pm: Shah Faesal, Former IAS officer, to launch his political outfit 'Jammu and Kashmir People's Movement' at a function in Rajbagh area of the J&K on Sunday. Several aspiring politicians and youngsters are expected to join Faesal's political outfit. (PTI) 2.30pm: Rahul Gandhi in Uttarakhand: We gave loan waivers in three states where we won the Assembly elections recently and fulfilled our promise. Modi promised Rs 15 lakh for every citizens and also promised to provide jobs for 2 crore people every year. There is highest unemployment in Uttarakhand in the past 45 years right now. Ask people about their condition after they introduced demonetisation and GST...I want to tell all small business owners that we will make GST a simple process. There will be no variable tax slabs... we will correct all the wrongdoings of the Modi government. 2.15pm: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath says Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's entry into politics will make "no difference" to the BJP's Lok Sabha poll prospects in the state and dismissed the SP-BSP alliance as "false alarm". "The Congress has made her (Priyanka) its general secretary (in-charge of eastern UP) this time. It is an internal matter of that party. Earlier too she had campaigned for the Congress. This time also it will make no difference (to the BJP)," he told PTI. 1.52pm: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP from Haryana, Rattan Lal Kataria, makes controversial remarks against Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his late father and former PM Rajiv Gandhi. "Iska baap toh mar gaya, Rahul ka, Bofors kaand ke laaga chunri mein daag mitaaoon kaise, voh to iss dunia se chala gaya aur daag mitte nahi. Aur voh hamein keh rahe hain," says Kataria. 1.45pm: Rahul Gandhi posts "defensive tweet" after PM Modi's '#MainBhiChowkidar' campaign. 1.43pm: BJP MP Shyama Charan Gupta joins Samajwadi Party. He will be contesting Lok Sabha Elections 2019 from Banda constituency, reports ANI. 1.30pm: An AIADMK delegation led by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami Saturday called on DMDK founder Vijayakanth at his residence here, reported PTI. AIADMK has struck a poll pact with the Vijayakanth-led party for the April 18 Lok Sabha polls in Tamil Nadu, and DMDK has been allotted four seats as part of the seat-sharing agreement. 1.16pm: Manish Khanduri, the son of former Uttarakhand chief minister and BJP leader Maj Gen (Retd) BC Khanduri, joins the Congress party. Defensive tweet Mr Modi! You feeling a little guilty today? pic.twitter.com/ztVGRlc599 Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) March 16, 2019 1.13pm: Balabhadra Majhi, BJD MP from Nabarangpur (Odisha) who had recently resigned from the party, is likely to join BJP. Dehradun, Uttarakhand: Manish Khanduri, the son of former Uttarakhand CM and BJP leader Maj Gen (Retd) BC Khanduri, joins Congress party. pic.twitter.com/i6ysu6IWq9 ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 1.00pm: Sitting BJP MP from Tezpur in Assam, Ram Prasad Sarmah, has quit the BJP. This comes at a time when the BJP is planning to nominate party heavyweight and Assam Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma from Tezpur. "I have left BJP today. But I really feel pained in my heart for those old BJP workers of Assam who were most neglected in the Party by the new intruders in the Party. I was strongly raising my voice on their behalf. Now there will be none to raise voice for them," he wrote on Twitter. 12.30pm: JD(S) General Secretary Danish Ali has joined Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). {mosimage} 12.12pm: The Congress Central Election Committee has announced the third list of candidates for the ensuing elections to the Lok Sabha. Sources: Balabhadra Majhi, BJD MP from Nabarangpur (Odisha) who had recently resigned from the party, is likely to join BJP. (file pic) pic.twitter.com/62dk7O5ZZ2 ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 12.03pm: Congress President Rahul Gandhi will address a political rally in Uttarakhand today. Lucknow: JD(S) General Secretary Danish Ali, who until recently was involved in alliance negotiations with Congress and JD(S), joins Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). pic.twitter.com/tsvqqlofU6 ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 16, 2019 12.01pm: Andhra Pradesh CM & TDP Chief N Chandrababu Naidu will launch a campaign for the state Assembly election today. The Congress Central Election Committee announces the third list of candidates for the ensuing elections to the Lok Sabha. pic.twitter.com/h65DyWmcZH Congress (@INCIndia) March 15, 2019 11.40am: With several TMC leaders making a beeline to the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha elections and a growing dissatisfaction over selection of candidates, discontent seems to be brewing in Mamata Banerjee's party, reported PTI. BJP's Mukul Roy, once the number two in the Trinamool Congress, has started inducting "disgruntled" leaders from his former party, including elected representatives, into the saffron party's fold, the agency reported. Resentment in the TMC camp came to the fore after it announced its list of 42 candidates for the Lok Sabha polls. The party dropped 10 MPs and brought in 18 new faces. 11.14am:Prakash Chandra Behera, Congress MLA fromSalepur (Cuttack district of Odisha), has resigned from the primary membershipof Congress party. Congress President @RahulGandhi will be in Uttarakhand today to address the Vishal Parivartan Rally. Watch him live across our social media channels. FB: https://t.co/nX8RdNUP9b YT: https://t.co/g2POk7bvU1pic.twitter.com/BKyih08aMZ Congress (@INCIndia) March 16, 2019 11.11am: PM Modi tweets a video, launching 'Mai Bhi Chowkidar' campaign & kick-starting BJP's campaign for Lok Sabha Elections 2019. PM Modi tweets a video, launching 'Mai Bhi Chowkidar' campaign & kick-starting BJP's campaign for #LokSabhaElections2019. PM Modi will also interact with people from across the country on 31 March as part of the campaign. The polls will be held in 7 phases from 11 April-19 May. pic.twitter.com/a0Fwa4OAxn - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 11.06am: DMK's ally MDMK has announced the candidature of former MP A Ganeshamurthi from the Erode constituency for the April 18 Lok Sabha elections in Tamil Nadu, reported PTI. Ganeshamurthi is a two-time MP, who had represented Palani in the 12th Lok Sabha (1998) and Erode during the 2009-14 period. "Ganeshamurthi is contesting from Erode as MDMK candidate, on behalf of the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance," MDMK founder Vaiko said in a statement. 10.58am: Hailing Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath's decision to almost double the OBC quota to 27 per cent, the state Congress has said it was a major step in the fight for social justice. The party has decided to felicitate Kamal Nath for the move. "The chief minister had indicated that he is going to take a decisive step in the interest of backward classes by inducting 27 per cent MLAs from this category into his cabinet," state Congress media department chairperson Shobha Ojha said, reported PTI. 10.30am: After entering an alliance with the BJP in Uttar Pradesh, Apna Dal will contest 2019 Lok Sabha elections from two constituencies of the state. 10.00am: Arun Jaitley says PM Modi & New India will together demolish the dynasties. "The real strength of democracy will be realised when myth of dynasties is finally buried and these parties are taken over by men of competence and merit. That will provide Indians with a choice," he says. Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh CM & TDP Chief N Chandrababu Naidu leaves for Chitoor for Tirupati darshan. He will launch campaign for the state assembly election after the darshan. pic.twitter.com/1DACavZ2kj ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has said the alliance between the BJP and the Shiv Senais based on their commitment to a similar ideology. Fadnavis said this is "New India" which is filled with nationalism. This is not the "Old India" which could not take a firm stand on the issue of national security, he said, reported PTI. The BJP chief minister said the opposition cannot compete with the saffron allaince on the issue of development. "I feel the way BJP-Sena alliance has prepared itself, I am confident our alliance will cross the 42-seat mark this time (out of the total 48) in the state. The country's atmosphere is different now, on one side is development, but what is much more dear to BJP-Shiv Senaworkers is India and nationalism," he said. 8.30am: PM Modi on Friday said "no longer will dynastic politics act as a barrier to meritorious people joining the system & working for society". Odisha: Prakash Chandra Behera (file pic), Congress MLA from Salepur (Cuttack district), resigns from the primary membership of Congress party. He has sent his resignation to Congress President Rahul Gandhi. pic.twitter.com/ZyZojnpFkP ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 2014 LS elections echoed realisations of aspirational India that it is only men of merit, competence & integrity matter & not the membership of a family. I am confident that this trend will continue in the 2019 elections. PM Modi & New India will together demolish the dynasties. Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) March 15, 2019 8.00am: Prime Minister Narendra Modi asks his supporters to take the 'main bhi chowkidar' (I too am a watchman) pledge. Protesting against China's blocking the declaration of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), Indian traders association, CAIT, has announced it will launch a national campaign to boycott Chinese goods and will burn them on the festival of Holika before Holi. Beijing has blocked to the UN resolution for the fourth time to designate Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's (JeM) chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist by putting a technical hold on the proposal, a move India termed as disappointing. On February 27, the US, France and UK moved the proposal to designate JeM head Masood Azhar under the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), which claims to represent seven crore traders, said trade associations across the country would burn the Chinese goods on March 19. CAIT said the event would be held at about 1,500 places across the country. In Delhi, the event will be held at Sadar Bazar, one of the hubs of the Chinese goods. The trader's body has also asked the government to levy 300 per cent to 500 per cent customs duty on imports from China. It also asked the Centre to closely scrutinise the imports in which more of Hawala transactions are involved. Demanding to reduce the dependency on Chinese raw material, the body said special package should be given to indigenous small industries to produce goods at a competitive price. Commenting on the development, CAIT National President BC Bhartia and Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal said imports from China posed some important questions which included what all was imported was in fact necessary for the economic development, whether imports are linked with Hawala transactions. They also wanted government to investigate whether money paid to exporters of China are being used to fund terrorism activities. CAIT has demanded the government should have an effective mechanism and set the highest level of standards through which these Chinese goods should pass through. "If this is done, we are sure that Indian goods can anytime match the qualities of these goods and also be price competitive," it said. Meanwhile, the bilateral trade between India and China jumped 18.63 per cent year-on-year to USD 84.44 billion in 2017. However, the trade deficit with China continued to remain high at USD 51.75 billion during the year. Edited by Chitranjan Kumar Also Read: Lok Sabha elections 2019: PM Modi launches BJP's 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' campaign; urges people to fight corruption The requested page is currently unavailable on this server. Back to [RTHK News Homepage] Washington (AFP) - The 2020 presidential election is still 20 months away, but one campaign battle is already raging: the fight for America's small-dollar contributions. With all 12 major Democratic White House candidates shunning donations from corporations and political action committees, or PACs, they have turned their collective eye toward individual voters, who are showing increasing willingness to open their pocketbooks and play a larger role in the political process. All signs point to an avalanche of personal contributions in the 2020 election cycle as individuals invest more of their own cash in candidates, as polls show voters are overwhelmingly fed up with dark money and corporate influence in politics. Candidates are required to report their first-quarter donations to the Federal Election Commission (FEC) within the coming weeks, and the results are likely to show that while big money will still be at play in the election process, it just might be coming more from everyday voters. - 'Eager to give' - "There was a lot of energy on the Democratic side (in the 2018 midterm elections) and I see no reason why Democratic giving would slow down in a cycle when President Trump is actually on the ballot," Patrick Burgwinkle, communications director for campaign finance reform group End Citizens United, told AFP. Individual Democratic donors are "eager to give," he added, "provided that these candidates are walking the walk on reforming our broken campaign finance system." Many of them seek to claim the moral high ground and prove they will be accountable to the American people and not to corporate donors or special interests. "The money in politics is corrupting. It controls everything," Senator Kirsten Gillibrand told voters in Des Moines, Iowa, last month after announcing her presidential bid. "You have to get money out of politics. And that's why, as a very small first step, I'm not taking corporate PAC money." Story continues Instead she and others, armed with massive voter databases culled from social media and other contacts thanks to improving technology, are sending out millions of fundraising emails seeking contributions to fund their exhausting ground operations -- "even just a dollar," pleaded one such message from Democrat Cory Booker. Bernie Sanders, the liberal senator who made campaign finance reform a central pillar of his rebellious 2016 presidential campaign, entered the 2020 race in February with a bang, raising $5.9 million in the first 24 hours from more than 220,000 individuals across all 50 states. The average donation was $27. "Powerful special interests may have the money," he tweeted, "but we have the people." Donald Trump of course is not sitting idle. The president filed his candidacy for 2020 the day after his inauguration, and his campaign has been fundraising ever since, reportedly raising some $106 million by last October. - Unlimited political spending - Many Democrats have raised the reform alarm since 2010, when the controversial Supreme Court decision in Citizens United vs FEC lifted restrictions on campaign spending by corporations and unions. It also paved the way for unlimited political spending by independent groups known as super PACs, political entities that can accept unlimited contributions -- sometimes millions of dollars by a single entity or individual -- and then spend that money advocating for a candidate. Burgwinkle, of End Citizens United, said some Democrats have benefited from super PACS, but that the lion's share of post-Citizens United PAC money went towards helping elect Republicans. But today, Trump's challengers are receiving major financial boosts from energized grassroots supporters. "The race for money in the Democratic Party is really going to be a race for small dollars," said Colby College's Anthony Corrado, a government professor and leading expert on political finance. "What Bernie Sanders proved in 2016 was that you can finance a campaign largely depending on small-dollar contributions -- if you can generate the excitement amongst the grass roots faithful." But just because candidates swear off corporate or PAC money and focus on grassroots voters, nothing is preventing a mega-donor like billionaire Democratic activist Tom Steyer from contributing millions of dollars to PACs and outside money groups that will independently help candidates. Meanwhile the online donation process is becoming increasingly efficient for small-dollar donors. When Beto O'Rourke announced his presidential campaign Thursday, he went up with a website that led supporters to a user-friendly donation page powered by ActBlue, a non-profit group whose platform has become a small-dollar juggernaut. ActBlue says millions of Americans contributed a staggering $1.6 billion through the platform, at an average $39 per donation, during the 2018 election cycle. "They're not looking for political access, they're supporting a cause or a political platform," Corrado said of the donors. "And if you've got 100,000 people giving you $10 a month, you've suddenly got real money." SALAMANCA, N.Y. Given the state of relations between the fledgling United States government and the Seneca nation in 1792, a hybrid peace pipe-tomahawk was a fitting choice of gift from President George Washington. The Senecas had sided with the British during the Revolutionary War. In retaliation, Washington personally ordered the genocidal Sullivan Campaign that nearly wiped the Senecas out in western New York and earned Washington the title "Town Destroyer." The Seneca chief Cornplanter was wary of violence and anxious to establish peace before things got worse. "Are you determined to crush us?" he asked Washington. The president demurred; "The United States and the Six Nations should be truly brothers," he responded. In 1792, while negotiations for the Treaty of Canandaigua were underway, Washington marked the uneasy peace by sending Cornplanter as a gift a finely wrought tomahawk head mounted onto a peace pipe. Cornplanter's pipe-tomahawk Twice since then once during Cornplanter's lifetime, once long after the pipe-tomahawk seemed to have been lost forever. It hadn't been seen in public since 1950. That is why Brenda Redeye, a descendant of the Seneca chief, was emotional Thursday at the ceremony unveiling it on display at the Seneca-Iroquois National Museum in Salamanca. "You get overwhelmed with feelings that were part of history; were part our ancestors," she said. "And we can feel it all the way down." A historical mystery Seneca Nation leaders cut the ribbon to display Cornplanter's pipe-tomahawk on March 14, 2019. Pipe-tomahawks like the one Washington gave Cornplanter items were common gifts in European-Indian treaties, according to Gwendolyn Saul, the curator of ethnography and ethnology at the New York State Museum. "They combine a utilitarian object, the tomahawk, with a pipe and the associations of smoking a pipe when youve made an agreement," she told an Albany-area interviewer last year. "It really speaks to the relationship between Native and non-Native people." Story continues The brotherhood that Washington suggested did not come to pass. Cornplanter in the years before his death in 1836 retreated from European rapprochement to immerse himself again in the Senecas' religion. "The supernatural voices which he hears have told him that, 'as he was advanced into the vale of years, it was time to lay aside everything calculated to excite ideas of war; and that there were several things in his house which, to this end, he must destroy,'" a white minister with whom Cornplanter was close wrote in 1827. The chief and diplomat lit a fire and tossed into it most of the valuable gifts he had received through his life from both Europeans and Indians. Somehow the pipe-tomahawk at least the blade survived the purge. Ely Parker, the young Seneca diplomat, fashioned a new wooden handle with silver inlay and gave it as a gift to the state museum after Cornplanter's death. There it stayed until about 1950, when the state museum's newly hired director undertook an inventory and discovered that several items, including the pipe-tomahawk, were missing. The previous director refused to answer any questions about the vanished artifacts. Between 1950 and 2018 Cornplanter's pipe-tomahawk changed hands on the black market at least seven times, going for as much as $75,000 in 2010. Last year, a lawyer contacted the state museum on behalf of the pipe-tomahawk's current owners, expressing an interest in returning it. The anonymous donation was completed in June 2018, and the next month the state museum put the artifact on display for the first time in 70 years. 'It belongs here' Cornplanter's pipe-tomahawk and an image of the Seneca chief. For the Seneca living on the Allegany Indian Reservation in Cattaraugus County, though, the home-going was not yet complete. Fortunately they were just in the process of opening a new $20 million museum and cultural center that made it possible to showcase the pipe-tomahawk securely. The state loaned it to the Senecas, who will have it on display until July 22 and, they hope, much longer. "(The loan) is for six months, but who knows what happens between now and then," Seneca-Iroquois National Museum Director David George-Shongo said. In 1790 Washington assured Cornplanter in a letter: "If any man brings you evil reports of the intentions of the United States, mark that man as your enemy, for he will mean to deceive you and lead you into trouble. The United States will be true and faithful to their engagements." Cornplanter's pipe-tomahawk on display at the Seneca-Iroquois National Museum in Salamanca, New York. Of course, that did not prove true. The Senecas in particular remember the flooding of 10,000 acres of their land, including a tract given to Cornplanter himself in perpetuity, during the construction of the Kinzua Dam in 1960. Nonetheless, Seneca Nation President Rickey Armstrong said: "This tomahawk is not symbolic. It is not here just for show. Cornplanters tomahawk is proof that our relationship with the U.S. and outside government is rooted in recognition of our sovereignty." Museum Board of Directors Chairman Rick Jemison said the pipe-tomahawk is an invaluable educational and historical treasure in the nation's quest to connect with and continue its history. "You can read all you want in the history books about Cornplanter, but until you see something that he held that was his that was in his hands then it comes alive," he said. "Its just amazing that this pipe-tomahawk is even here today. But its where it belongs. It belongs here, because he was one of us." This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: 227 years later, George Washington's gift to famed Iroquois chief returned to Senecas Andrew Garfield attends the 72nd Annual Tony Awards at Radio City Music Hall in New York, NY, on June 10, 2018. (Photo by Anthony Behar/Sipa USA) People are spending more and more time staring at social media these days, and it turns out Spider-Man star Andrew Garfield is no different. In an interview with the Independent, he talked about how he almost finds it addictive. I have a confession. On Twitter, I have an account that I use to follow news and certain people. I dont have an official account or anything like that, but I use it because I like to know whats going on. But it gets so addictive. He went on to add, Im not participating, but Im just kind of watching. People are very funny on it like Rob Delaney. The American comedian has historically liked to embrace the darkness in his Twitter posts. Delaney is known in the UK for his Channel 4 comedy Catastrophe, which he writes with co-star Sharon Horgan. He asked his Twitter following just this week to let him know what they thought of the new series, now available in the US. Garfield was talking to the newspaper in the run up of the release of his new film Under the Silver Lake. He went on to reveal more about his conflicted relationship with social media, a forum that he finds genuinely worrying. You ask a kid in pre-school now, Whats your dream? To be famous, theyll reply. Its the Kardashian effect. I find it devastating and sick-inducing. The actor became a household name when he took on the role of Peter Parker in the Marvels second series of Spider-Man stories. His relationship with co-star Emma Stone was widely covered in the media. But by 2015 his time as the superhero was over, as is now his relationship with Stone. He has recently been linked to popstar Rita Ora. Read more: Andrew Garfields Spider-Man may have spin his last web Andrew Garfields new film Under The Silver Lake is in cinemas now. The quirky conspiracy thriller is directed by David Robert Mitchell, who wowed critics with 2014s horror It Follows. By Tatiana Jancarikova BRATISLAVA (Reuters) - An anti-corruption campaigner with no previous experience of public office is set to win Slovakia's presidential election on Saturday as voters spurn the ruling Smer party one year after the murder of a journalist sparked mass protests. The killing of Jan Kuciak, who reported on fraud cases involving politically connected businessmen, triggered the biggest anti-government protests in Slovakia since communism ended three decades earlier. It also led to the resignation of then prime minister, Smer leader Robert Fico. Fico's government remains in power, but Smer's popularity has slumped. On the first anniversary of Kuciak's murder, thousands of Slovaks rallied to protest against what they see as a lack of government action on the corruption he uncovered. Polling stations opened at 7 a.m. local time (0600 GMT) across the European Union and NATO member country of 5.4 million people, and will close at 10 p.m. The two best performing candidates will face a run-off on March 30. Polls show the Smer-backed candidate, EU commissioner Maros Sefcovic, trailing far behind political newcomer and lawyer Zuzana Caputova, whose endorsement by the protest movement has catapulted her to frontrunner position with support at more than 50 percent. If elected, the 45-year-old Caputova, a pro-European liberal who belongs to the small, non-parliamentary Progressive Slovakia party, will stand out among the populist nationalist politicians on the rise across much of Europe. "I see a strong call for change in this election following the tragic events last spring and a very strong public reaction," Caputova told reporters as she cast vote in her home town Pezinok. "We stand on a crossroads between the loss and renewal of public trust, also in terms of Slovakia's foreign policy orientation." Sefcovic, who voted in Bratislava and ran on a platform of unity and continuity, said he would "expect the results with suspense. The people will decide." Story continues The president does not wield day-to-day power but has veto power over the appointments of senior prosecutors and judges, pivotal in that fight. The murder of Kuciak and his fiancee, who was shot dead alongside him, is still under investigation. The biggest breakthrough to date came just two days before the vote, when special prosecutors said they had charged businessman Marian Kocner, a subject of Kuciak's reporting with connections across the political scene including with Smer, with ordering the murder. "Caputova has a history of fighting for the common people as a public-interest lawyer and brings much-needed non-confrontational style and liberal values to the public debate," Ivan Musak, 52, told Reuters in Bratislava. Peter, a 69-year old pensioner who declined to give his full name, was concerned about her lack of political experience. "Sefcovic is an experienced diplomat, he would be more capable of representing the country," he said. "But I voted for him despite the Smer backing, not because of it." The last AKO agency poll before the vote published on March 1, showed support for Caputova at 52.9 percent and Sefcovic at 16.7 percent. Supreme court judge and former justice minister Stefan Harabin, an independent, got 11.4 percent. He promises to fight immigration and dismantle EU sanctions against Russia. He slams LGBT rights as "sick ideology" and says he would "renounce all international treaties that Slovakia joined under pressure". (Reporting by Tatiana Jancarikova; Editing by Jason Hovet, Raissa Kasolowsky, Mark Potter, William Maclean) Athens (AFP) - Racist hate crimes come under fresh scrutiny at an Athens exhibition seeking to map out the "topography of violence" targeting migrants and refugees. By using QR (quick response) codes -- a type of barcode --which can be opened on a smart phone, the interactive "X them out! A black map of Athens" seeks to take visitors on a trip around the Greek capital to places where violent attacks took place. The aim is to shed light on the often-unseen crimes of the Greek neo-Nazi Golden Dawn, an ultranationalist party known for its xenophobic violence. Racist violence hit the global headlines again on Friday after an Australian extremist gunned down 49 people at two mosques in New Zealand, sparking a wave of shock and revulsion. The Athens exhibition was put together by the local branch of the Rosa Luxembourg Foundation, a German organisation which fights fascism and racism, and HumanRights360, a Greek civil society group. "With this campaign, we attempt to establish a topography of racist violence. We seek to make its dark dimensions and its deadly nature more familiar to the general public," the exhibitors explain, describing it as an antiracist map. "Our aim is to strengthen the collective memory and never forget these repugnant acts," explains Ilectra Alexandropoulou of the Rosa Luxembourg Foundation. The map, which is on display at Technopolis, a cultural venue near the city centre, includes some 50 locations where attacks happened, some of which were deadly. Most targeted migrants, and were carried out by those affiliated with the Golden Dawn. Walking the streets in and around Athens, visitors look out for the brightly-coloured sticker bearing a QR code which they then scan to get a short description of the attack. "Once the code is scanned, the website comes up on the screen along with an illustrated description," explains Eleni Takou from HumanRights360. The project involved working with 25 graphic illustrators, who contributed artwork depicting the violence meted out by Golden Dawn activists who could be seen patrolling the streets of Athens between 2010 and 2014, at the height of the crisis. Story continues Dressed in black, their heads shaved and with their trademark swastika armbands, they would kick and punch and wielded iron bars. The illustrations were based on photos that were published at the time by many newspapers and websites. "The campaign.. is designed to pinpoint and highlight the unseen criminality related to racist attacks in the public space," explains the exhibition's website https://valtousx.gr/en/ . - Topography of violence - It was only in 2013 when an anti-fascist rapper called Pavlos Fyssas was murdered by a Golden Dawn activist in Athens that Greek authorities opened an investigation into the actions of the violently xenophobic and anti-Semitic group. Fyssas was stabbed outside a cafe in the working-class Keratsini district, with his father saying he had been ambushed by Golden Dawn members. Witnesses said police stood nearby but did nothing as the group chased Fyssas and his friends. Until that point, the police had not cracked down on the faction, despite years of growing concern over its campaign of violence against migrants and political opponents. But the stabbing forced Athens to open an investigation into the group, with 70 of its members put on trial on a wide range of charges, including the rapper's murder. "We have tried to visualise just a small part of this 'topography of violence' that has its origins in Golden Dawn and fascism, in order to contribute to acquainting the general public with their crimes and in punishing their murderous activity," the organisers said. Founded in the mid-1980s by a Holocaust denier called Nikos Michaloliakos, the Golden Dawn party for years glorified Adolf Hitler and the warrior ethos of Nazi Germany in its publications. Formerly on the fringe of Greek politics, Golden Dawn went from 19,000 votes a few years ago to over 426,000 in 2012 when it entered parliament for the first time after pledging to "scour the country" clean of illegal immigrants. Today it is the third largest party in the Greek parliament, with polls predicting it will secure nearly eight percent of the vote when the country goes to the polls later this year. Access Hollywood The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge just released their 2021 family holiday card. Prince William, Kate Middleton and their three children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis all smiled together in a photo that was taken during their visit to Jordan earlier this year. The royal family shared the photo on Friday along with the caption, "Delighted to share a new image of the family, which features on this years Christmas card." DETROIT After he heard Thursday night about the attack inside a mosque in New Zealand, Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi said he grew worried. "I could not even sleep last night," Elahi, the religious leader of the Islamic House of Wisdom in Dearborn Heights, said. "It's really a sad day, a dark day." But Elahi was determined to lead Friday prayers, the most popular gathering time for Muslims and when the New Zealand shooter attacked, killing 49 worshippers. The New Zealand shooting is one of the deadliest attacks against Muslims in a Western country in recent memory. Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old man born in Australia who is reported to have expressed white supremacist views, has been arrested and charged in the shootings; three others were arrested in connection with the shootings. "This is not the time to give in," Elahi said inside his mosque Friday afternoon after prayers. "This is not the time of showing weakness, silence; our silence won't help us, it will hurt us. We have to come to prayer and show more devotion and more determination and ... show that we are not scared. If we don't come, we are giving a gift to the terrorists." Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi addresses the mass shooting at two mosques in New Zealand during prayers at The Islamic House of Wisdom in Dearborn Heights on Friday, March 15, 2019. Elahi's views were echoed in many of metro Detroit's Muslim communities, where there is anxiety but determination to keep on attending their houses of worship and practicing their Islamic faith. There were increased patrols and police presence Friday at some mosques in Michigan, including in Dearborn and Dearborn Heights, police and faith leaders said. At Elahi's Islamic House of Wisdom, there were two Dearborn Heights police officers near the entrance keeping an eye out. Faik Nasser of Canton said he and his wife felt anxious Friday but showed up for services at the Islamic House of Wisdom. "He attacked humanity," Nasser said of the New Zealand shooter. "He attacked all of the teachings of the great Abrahamic religions." Story continues Nasser said the attacks are the result of increased Islamophobia. He criticized President Donald Trump for what he said are the president's intolerant views of Muslims and Islam. During his Friday sermon, Elahi also criticized Trump, saying his "both sides" remarks are failing to criticize the threat of violent white supremacy. It "sends the wrong message," Elahi said. A range of Muslim and Arab-American groups in metro Detroit sent out statements condemning the New Zealand attack, including the Islamic Institute of America in Dearborn Heights, the Islamic Center of America in Dearborn, the Arab American Civil Rights League in Dearborn and the American Human Rights Council in Dearborn. Women pray as Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi addresses the mass shooting at two mosques in New Zealand during prayers at The Islamic House of Wisdom in Dearborn Heights on Friday, March 15, 2019. The Catholic Archbishop of Detroit, Allen Vigneron, also released a statement, saying in part: "On behalf of the all of the Catholic faithful of southeast Michigan, I offer prayers and condolences to the Muslim community throughout the world, especially in New Zealand, as they mourn the horrific violence that unfolded Friday in two houses of worship." Imam Hassan Al-Qazwini, the religious leader of the Islamic Institute of America in Dearborn Heights, asked "all Muslim communities in the U.S. to be vigilant during Friday prayers and call on U.S. law enforcement agencies to offer protection to houses of worship." A vigil was planned Friday night at Al-Qazwini's mosque and another was planned at the Islamic Center of America. "We urge Muslim communities to be vigilant, the threat is real," Imad Hamad, the executive director of the American Human Rights Council, said. "The massacre in New Zealand should shock us all into considering the root causes of such crimes." U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., who is Muslim, said in a statement: "This morning I tried to hold back tears as I hugged my two brown, Muslim boys a little tighter and longer. The painful loss of life based on hate makes me so angry." While Muslim communities are tense, they are hopeful, seeing the expressions of support from other faiths, said Elahi. "All human beings are organs of the same body," Elahi said during his sermon. "When one member of the body is hurt, the entire body is hurt. ... We are sad, we are upset, but we are not losing our hope." Drawing upon Muslim and Christian beliefs, Elahi added: "The Earth is dead with arrogance, the Earth is dead with injustice, the Earth is dead with injustice; but the life of peace, the life of justice, the light of love, the light of peace, the light of unity and brotherhood is coming." Elahi urged prayers for the victims and "for the speedy healing of the wounded. ... Please continue your prayers for them." Follow Niraj Warikoo on Twitter: @nwarikoo. Contributing: Micah Walker of the Detroit Free Press This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: 'A dark day': Muslims in Michigan anxious but determined after New Zealand mosque shootings India's health ministry has called for Juul Labs Inc's electronic cigarettes to be blocked from entering the country, a letter seen by Reuters showed, potentially dealing a blow to the U.S. company's plans to tap the South Asian market. Juul has plans to launch its products in India by late 2019 as it looks to expand away from its home turf. The company has hired new executives and plans to open an India subsidiary, Reuters reported in January. Citing the Reuters article, India's top health official wrote a letter to the federal commerce secretary in February, saying necessary measures should be taken to "prevent entry of such products in our markets". "Novel products such as 'JUUL' are harmful and addictive and could potentially undermine our tobacco control efforts," Health Secretary Preeti Sudan wrote in her letter dated Feb. 18. "It is felt that the young generation would be particularly vulnerable to such products and gimmicks." Asked for a comment on the letter, Juul spokeswoman Victoria Davis said the company was "open to dialogue with lawmakers and regulators in order to help switch" adult smokers in India to a viable alternative to combustible cigarettes. Juul has previously said India was among the Asian markets under evaluation, but there were no "definitive plans". The details of Sudan's letter have not previously been reported. She also sent a copy to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office. The commerce ministry, which is likely to be involved in discussions if Juul was to receive an India approval, did not respond to Reuters queries. Modi's office also did not respond. Juul's sleek vaping devices, which resemble a USB flash drive and offer flavours such as mango and creme, are a sensation in the United States, but have drawn tighter regulatory scrutiny due to surging use among teenagers. India has 106 million adult smokers, second only to China in the world, making it a lucrative market for firms such as Juul and Philip Morris International Inc. However, India's regulatory environment for tobacco and electronic cigarettes is highly restrictive. The health ministry last year advised states to stop the sale or import of e-cigarettes, saying they pose a "great health risk". About a third of India's 29 states currently ban e-cigarettes. In February, India's federal drugs regulator told all states to ensure that e-cigarettes were not sold or manufactured in their regions, according to a circular seen by Reuters. Advocates for the devices say e-cigarettes are far less harmful, because users do not inhale the dangerous matter taken into the lungs through cigarette smoking. But many tobacco-control activists are opposed to e-cigarettes, saying they could lead to nicotine addiction and push people to consume tobacco. Juul has said its mission was to "improve the lives of the world's one billion smokers by offering a satisfying alternative to combustible cigarettes". Indian health secretary Sudan, however, said in her letter that products such as Juul would hurt India's anti-tobacco efforts through their "easy availability, disguised appearance and the false notion of being safe". More than 900,000 people die each year in India due to tobacco-related illnesses. Also Read: Boeing 737 MAX 8 ban: Biggest setback for the US-based aircraft manufacturer in its history BARRON, Wisc. When Elizabeth Smart came home after nine months in captivity, she struggled with the notoriety that accompanied her abduction. She couldnt go anywhere without being recognized. Trips to the grocery store took longer. She was no longer a wallflower. Her return was the beginning of a new journey, she told Barron County, Wisconsin, residents Friday. In my mind, I thought that I could just go back to who I was before I was kidnapped, she said. At that point in time, I didnt realize that actually, that girl, Elizabeth Smart, who existed before I was kidnapped, didnt exist anymore. Smart spoke at Barron High School to help the community move forward after the return of 13-year-old Jayme Closs, whose escape from the home of Jake Patterson two months ago drew national headlines. Patterson, 21, is charged with gunning down Jaymes parents on Oct. 15, kidnapping the teen and holding her for 88 days in the Douglas County town of Gordon. Patterson, who is due back in court for an arraignment on March 27, faces charges of first-degree intentional homicide, kidnapping and armed burglary. More: Jayme Closs' alleged kidnapper writes hell plead guilty, said motive is 'complicated' Smart also gained nationwide attention after she was kidnapped in 2002 from her Salt Lake City bedroom by street preacher Brian David Mitchell and held for nine months with the help of Mitchell's wife, Wanda Barzee. Mitchell raped her daily and used religion to justify his actions. Elizabeth Smart address a town hall at Barron High School. Abducted as a teen, Smart spoke about 13-year-old Jayme Closs, who was kidnapped in October and her parents were murdered. Closs escaped in January. Smart said it's important to give Jayme "space to relcaim her life." Smart is now a child safety advocate and on Friday encouraged Barron residents to respect Jaymes privacy as she begins to heal and reclaim her life. She suggested those who want to talk to her write a letter that she can read when shes ready. Opinion: Jayme Closs captured the nations attention. Why dont these other missing kids? Smart also emphasized that one should never ask a victim a question that starts with, Why didnt you? Whatever they have done, they did the right thing, because they survived, she said. Story continues The high school gym was packed with people who wanted to hear from Smart, who spoke for about 30 minutes. Barron County Sheriff Chris Fitzgerald called it a tremendous night. It was a very powerful message, said Mary Krovoza, of Rice Lake. It was probably what the community needed. Now that Jayme is home, Smart said, its OK for the community to keep living. The family will need time to mourn Jaymes parents, James and Denise, but things will get better, she said. Smart also called Jayme an extraordinary young woman who will find her way forward. Despite the horrors that she saw, despite the terrible things that she suffered that are hers and hers alone to share, she still escaped ... she is a survivor, Smart said. This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: 'She is a survivor': Elizabeth Smart talks healing as Jayme Closs starts to reclaim her life Australia home of the suspected gunman in the killing of at least 50 people at a New Zealand mosque has banned alt-right firebrand Milo Yiannopoulos from touring the country over his social media response to the massacre. Yiannopoulos, a fierce critic of Islam who was set to visit Australia this year, had said on Facebook that attacks like Christchurch happen because the establishment panders to and mollycoddles extremist leftism and barbaric, alien religious cultures. Australian Immigration Minister David Coleman said in a statement that Yiannopoulos social media comments are appalling and foment hatred and division. Coleman didnt specify which comments by Yiannopoulos he was referring to. Ironically, Coleman's condemnation comes only a week after he had approved a visa for the controversial British commentator and alt-right star against the advice of the Home Affairs department, which warned that Yiannopoulos may fail the character test to enter the country. It was to be the first tour of Australia for the former Breitbart senior editor since 2017, when clashes between Milo supporters and opponents in Melbourne deteriorated into shoving matches that prompted seven arrests. The flamboyant commentator, who regularly lashes out against feminism, social justice and political correctness, quickly took to social media with a response: In this Feb. 21, 2017 file photo, Milo Yiannopoulos speaks during a news conference in New York. "I'm banned from Australia, again, after a statement in which I said I abhor political violence," Yiannopoulos said on social media after the announcement. The right-wing commentator had already stirred up controversy among Australian lawmakers in advance of the planned 2019 visit in a political debate over whether he should be allowed in. On Twitter, Labor MP Tony Burke praised the decision to ban Yiannopoulos. "Milo banned. Good. His overnight comments weren't that different from how he has always behaved," he said. Milo banned. Good. His overnight comments werent that different from how he has always behaved. There was already enough evidence to ban him which is why the department had already recommended he be banned. The Australian tours for the worlds hate speakers must stop. https://t.co/gh5ZrQRiU7 Tony Burke (@Tony_Burke) March 16, 2019 "There was already enough evidence to ban him which is why the department had already recommended he be banned. The Australian tours for the world's hate speakers must stop," he added. Yiannopoulos resigned as a senior editor from Bretbart in 2017 following remarks he made about pedophilia by Roman Catholic priests and his endorsement of sexual relations with boys as young as 13. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Australia bans tour by alt-right star Milo Yiannopoulos over New Zealand massacre remarks Editors Note: This piece originally ran in the March 1, 1974, issue of National Review and is part of a weekend series of classic D. Keith Mano columns. Its a bomb. Father Dan must know that. He has put two and two together by now. Anyway, with just that small arithmetic he could count the house. Friday afternoon at Bronx Community College, a class B farm club in the city educational system. The overlarge auditorium is maybe 15 per cent full; a 5 a.m. Mass draws better. And everyone has received two neat, persuasive mimeographed sheets at the door: berrigan an antisemite. It doesnt seem, well . . . propitious. Priests used to get tithes; now lecture agents do. But the clown from Creative Artists Public Service who arranged this dog probably booked Christians into the Colosseum. Read the poems, grab your white envelope, and exit pursued by a Jew. Lord, can any good come out of the Bronx? Hes got an odd build. Slim in the thigh, yet unwieldy, barrel-sized at pap level. He walks to the lectern, coccyx outthrust, as if still jammed in a chair. Blue shirt and blue jeans; his frayed cuffs cost extra at the mod shop. And a bolo tie. On the slide, near his Adams apple, some predatory bird in outline, wings spread. From Row D it could pass for a feathery crucifix. Father Dans skin appears mascaraed: orange, with third degree wrinkles, unhealthy. Plus the Vandyke beard, a second-string Shakespearean villain, Oliver or Don John. But the teeth are nice, amiable and rabbity, his best feature. The sort of things you might dice cabbage with. They work a busy cud inside his lower lip. The hair is neat and flat as a yarmulke: crew-cut for the Seventies. And dont tell me the Almighty hasnt His sense of humor. Theres an embryonic bald spot, tonsure-shaped, on top. His scalp refinding its vocation. The voice is frail, shy; but his diction sounds prissy. Po-em formed at the business end of a moue. Father Dan speaks to the audience as I speak to kittens: just on the long side of baby talk. He apologizes for the formality, lectern and all. Hopes theyll have time afterward for a rap session. I wonder. He seems somewhat uneasy: two bearded Jewish youths stand, arms interwrapped, near the last row. Tsuris coming from that direction. When Father Dan reads the poetry a hush falls over his own voice. He rasps poems out, forcing excitement, the way you might recite Clement Moore to four-year-olds on Christmas Eve. Grandfatherly half-glasses heighten the image. Dramatic tension in his throat; not too much of anything in the words. Story continues Daniel Berrigan is not a poet. He hasnt the equipment. His imagery, his language are humdrum as check stubs. And nothing but prison poetry this afternoon. We endured his trivial crimes; now we endure his trivial punishment. Verses on: a tooth extraction, a visiting skunk, an anal search. Your average pickpocket has as much to say. He needs the Jesuit identity: then, at least, elegiac phrases like mother f scrounge up some impact. A priests vulgarity is still special. But Berrigan doesnt even take Gods name in vain. He has renounced that persona, if not the faith itself. Jesus and Vietnam and Watergate are overwhelmed by peevish complaint. He seems to say merely I I was imprisoned. I was made uncomfortable. I. And his insipid poems go more or less applauseless except when Berrigan shills for himself. How about that? he asks. Polite, isolated handclaps after a long pause. Forty minutes of what amounted to prison housekeeping, the souls dull laundry, and Father Dan sits. The fee is as good as pocketed; he prepares for small talk. The talk is not small. A young Jew, stocky and bearded, rises at his seat. On October 19, 1973 you made a speech to the Association of Arab University Graduates His blocky hands are shaking, but the voice is electric. There are no moues in his diction. Berrigan, seated, has begun to blink: one per three seconds. The cud is shredded inside his lower lip. And Father Dans bizarre, provocative sentences are read back. His antagonist repeats them with the rhythm of litany. If only a people could stand back from the blood myths of Divine Election. Israel is the creation of millionaires, generals, and entrepreneurs, a criminal Jewish community that has become the repository and finally the tomb of the Jewish soul. The Jew is the slave master whose behavior is motivated by a Nazi-like racism. Berrigan waits. What does it mean to me, a Jew, to hear a priest say that my Jewish people has lost its soul? And you say the Zionists in our midst you know what that means to me? The traitors in our midst, check out the size of their noses. There is legitimate criticism of Israel, but these are the words of an antisemite. You may not know youre an antisemite, but I know it. Father Berrigan, I can hardly believe you said these things. Someone close to you is whispering it in your ear. Berrigan seems struck by this. He comes back to the microphone. Eyes, as he crosses the stage, are on his feet. I wish you had printed my entire speech, he said. He will say it several times. The mild, modest voice seems now a device. I merely wanted to open some forbidden subjects. I would have said the same thing before a gathering of Jews. This is enormous; hard to believe. The audience is unsettled. Berrigan temporizes. For ten minutes the Jew has pressed him with quotations. Finally, I dont think we can get any further with this. I want to say only that I am as antisemitic as I am anti-Catholic. Not all that reassuring if you think about it. Berrigan takes other questions. It goes something like this: Are you going to run for the Senate? No. Im going to run the other way. You havent answered me. Are your brother and Elizabeth happy? You havent answered me. Yes. Theyre in love. Living in a ghetto commune. Berrigan sits. An oblique hand sign: lecture over. From his judges bench/lectern he has overruled dissent. The man who, in Catonsville, spoke for his superior moral passion has been out-passioned. Diminished. Daniel Berrigans time has come. And, as suddenly, it has gone. More from National Review BEIJING (Reuters) - China said on Friday it was willing to have more discussions with all parties concerned including India on blacklisting the head of Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which claimed responsibility for the attack on an Indian paramilitary convoy in disputed Kashmir in February. China prevented a U.N. Security Council committee on Wednesday from blacklisting JeM founder Masood Azhar. India said it was disappointed at the block, which sparked calls for boycotts of Chinese products on domestic social media, while the United States said it was counter to a goal it shared with China of achieving regional peace and stability. In a statement faxed to Reuters late on Friday, China's Foreign Ministry reiterated that the "technical hold" on the blacklisting was to give more time for the committee to have further consultations and study on the issue. China hopes the committee's actions can "benefit reducing the tense situation and protect regional stability", the ministry said, responding to a Reuters question on the boycott calls in India. "China is willing to strengthen communication with all parties, including India, to appropriately handle this issue," it added, without elaborating. The United States, Britain and France had asked the Security Council's Islamic State and al Qaeda sanctions committee to subject Azhar to an arms embargo, travel ban and asset freeze. The 15-member committee operates by consensus. China had previously prevented the sanctions committee from sanctioning Azhar in 2016 and 2017. The Feb. 14 attack that killed at least 40 paramilitary police was the deadliest in Kashmir's 30-year-long insurgency, escalating tension between the nuclear-armed neighbours, which said they shot down each other's fighter jets late last month. Western powers could also blacklist Azhar by adopting a Security Council resolution, which needs nine votes in favour and no vetoes by Russia, China, the United States, Britain or France. Blacklisted by the U.N. Security Council in 2001, JeM is a primarily anti-India group that forged ties with al Qaeda. (Reporting by Ben Blanchard; editing by Diane Craft) BEIJING (Reuters) - China said on Friday it was willing to have more discussions with all parties concerned including India on blacklisting the head of Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which claimed responsibility for the attack on an Indian paramilitary convoy in disputed Kashmir in February. China prevented a U.N. Security Council committee on Wednesday from blacklisting JeM founder Masood Azhar. India said it was disappointed at the block, which sparked calls for boycotts of Chinese products on domestic social media, while the United States said it was counter to a goal it shared with China of achieving regional peace and stability. In a statement faxed to Reuters late on Friday, China's Foreign Ministry reiterated that the "technical hold" on the blacklisting was to give more time for the committee to have further consultations and study on the issue. China hopes the committee's actions can "benefit reducing the tense situation and protect regional stability", the ministry said, responding to a Reuters question on the boycott calls in India. "China is willing to strengthen communication with all parties, including India, to appropriately handle this issue," it added, without elaborating. The United States, Britain and France had asked the Security Council's Islamic State and al Qaeda sanctions committee to subject Azhar to an arms embargo, travel ban and asset freeze. The 15-member committee operates by consensus. China had previously prevented the sanctions committee from sanctioning Azhar in 2016 and 2017. The Feb. 14 attack that killed at least 40 paramilitary police was the deadliest in Kashmir's 30-year-long insurgency, escalating tension between the nuclear-armed neighbors, which said they shot down each other's fighter jets late last month. Western powers could also blacklist Azhar by adopting a Security Council resolution, which needs nine votes in favor and no vetoes by Russia, China, the United States, Britain or France. Blacklisted by the U.N. Security Council in 2001, JeM is a primarily anti-India group that forged ties with al Qaeda. (Reporting by Ben Blanchard; editing by Diane Craft) By Tom Westbrook and Praveen Menon CHRISTCHURCH/WELLINGTON (Reuters) - The death toll in the New Zealand mosque shootings rose to 50 on Sunday after police said they found another body at one of the mosques, while authorities worked to formally identify victims and release their bodies to families. Australian Brenton Harrison Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist, was charged with murder on Saturday. Tarrant was remanded without a plea and is due back in court on April 5 where police said he was likely to face further charges. Friday's attack, which Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern labeled as terrorism, was the worst ever peacetime mass killing in New Zealand and the country had raised its security threat level to the highest. Footage of the attack on one of the mosques was broadcast live on Facebook, and a "manifesto" denouncing immigrants as "invaders" was also posted online via links to related social media accounts. The bodies of the victims had not yet been released to families because investigations were ongoing, but police were working as quickly as they could to do that, Police Commissioner Mike Bush said at a media conference in Wellington. It is customary in Islam to bury the dead within the 24 hours. "We have to be absolutely clear on cause of death and confirm their identity before that can happen. But we are so aware of the cultural and religious needs, so we are doing that as quickly and sensitively as possible," Bush said. Bush said the body of the 50th victim was found at the Al Noor mosque, where more than 40 people died after a gunman entered and shot randomly at people with a semi-automatic rifle with high-capacity magazines, before traveling to a second mosque. "As of last night we were able to take all of the victims from both of those scenes. In doing so we were able to locate a further victim," he said. Thirty-six people were still in Christchurch Hospital, with 11 being treated in intensive care, and one child moved to dedicated children's hospital in Auckland. At a roadblock outside the Al Noor mosque on Sunday, about 40 people were standing in silence near scores of bunches of flowers. Police with gloves and metal detectors combed the street and footpath. HERO HAILED One man at the second mosque in the suburb of Linwood was hailed for distracting and confronting the shooter, preventing further deaths. Abdul Aziz, 48, told local media he heard shooting and ran outside the mosque, shouting at the gunman and drawing him away from the building, the Newshub website reported. Aziz, originally from Afghanistan, said he picked up one of the gunman's discarded weapons and threatened the man, who drove off. Police then rammed the gunman's vehicle and arrested him. "Those two police officers acted with absolute courage," Bush said. "They have prevented further deaths and risked their own lives to do so." Church services for victims of the attack were held around the country, including at Christchurch's "Cardboard Cathedral", a temporary structure built after much of the central city was destroyed in a 2011 earthquake. The majority of victims were migrants or refugees from countries such as Pakistan, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkey, Somalia and Afghanistan. Muslims account for just over 1 percent of New Zealand's population. Pakistan's High Commissioner said six citizens had been killed and three were missing. GUN REFORM Bush said police did not believe that three other people arrested on Friday were involved in the attack. Two men faced charges unrelated or "tangential" to the attack, while a woman had been released, he said. Tarrant did not have a criminal history and was not on any watchlists in New Zealand or Australia. In a manifesto circulating online, Tarrant described himself as "Just a ordinary White man, 28 years old" who used the spoils of cryptocurrency trading to finance extensive travels through Europe from 2016-2018. Ardern said Tarrant was a licensed gun owner who allegedly used five weapons, including two semi-automatic weapons and two shotguns, which had been modified. "I can tell you one thing right now, our gun laws will change," Ardern told reporters on Saturday, saying a ban on semi-automatic weapons would be considered. New Zealand has in the past tried to tighten firearm laws, but a strong gun lobby and culture of hunting has stymied such efforts. There are an estimated 1.5 million firearms in New Zealand, which has a population of only 5 million, but the country has had low levels of gun violence. New Zealand shootings: https://tmsnrt.rs/2TEun3P (Reporting by Praveen Menon and Tom Westbrook; Additional reporting by Charlotte Greenfield and John Mair; Editing by Lincoln Feast) It was the mildest of compliments from a predecessor: Joe Biden rather benignly described vice president Mike Pence as a decent guy. And thats when the attacks began. Senator Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass, one of several 2020 Democratic candidates to weigh in, told MSNBC that Mr Pence is not an honourable person. Senator Kamala Harris, D-Calif, said it was ridiculous and outrageous he is unwilling to meet privately with female staff prompting a flurry of Twitter refutations from top female administration officials. And at a CNN town hall, South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg referred to Mr Pence as the cheerleader of the porn star presidency, wondering aloud if he stopped believing in scripture when he started believing in Donald Trump. [[gallery-0]] Mr Pence has found himself thrust unwittingly into the centre of the 2020 presidential debate, becoming a square-jawed punching bag for Democrats and, at times, even some in his own party. Ever willing to defend Mr Trump, Mr Pence has drawn fervent opposition from a Democratic base that opposes his socially conservative policies and his docile allegiance to the president. Some Republicans are also increasingly airing their grievances about the president to Mr Pence, who was part of the administrations unsuccessful effort this week to keep GOP senators from breaking with Mr Trump on a vote to reject his national emergency declaration at the southern border. Yet in some ways, the public abasement of Mr Pence is good for all sides including for Mr Pence himself. Aides and allies of the vice president take an optimistic view, saying it offers fresh evidence of Mr Pences willingness to absorb arrows for a president who places a premium on loyalty. On Friday, as Mr Trump vetoed the Senates embarrassing rejection of his national emergency declaration, the vice president again demonstrated his fealty. I dont know if Ive ever been more proud to be standing next to your desk than I am today, Mr Pence said, saying his boss was keeping your word by vetoing this legislation. Story continues Nick Ayers, Mr Pences former chief of staff, said the vice president sometimes finds himself a political bullseye because he works hard to avoid taking credit for the work he does. When his advice is taken, we dont read about it, Mr Ayers said. More importantly, when his advice is not taken, we dont read about it. Its nearly impossible to find a friend like that in Washington, but the president knows he has that in Mike Pence. But that also makes you an easy target. Mike Murphy, a Republican strategist and frequent Trump critic, offers a less flattering view, describing Mr Pence as a supplicant. Pence has made a decision to have a constituency of one person Donald Trump, Mr Murphy said. And so he doesnt really care about anything else, which on one hand is liberating, but if hes smart, also ought to be terrifying because hes hanging everything on the affection and allegiance of a mad man. Mr Pence rarely responds directly to his critics. The White House sees the sharpening criticism from Democrats as political overreach that will turn off voters and help Mr Trumps re-election, according to two administration officials who requested anonymity to discuss the vice presidents strategy. Attacking Mr Pence, however, plays well among Democrats, especially those striving to differentiate themselves in a crowded field. Mr Bidens modest praise of Mr Pence, delivered during a speech at the University of Nebraska Omaha late last month, received immediate backlash from actress and activist Cynthia Nixon, who chided Mr Biden on Twitter for calling Americas most anti-LGBT elected leader a decent guy. Please consider how this falls on the ears of our community, she wrote. Mr Biden, who is considering a presidential run, responded to say Ms Nixon was right and that there is nothing decent about being anti-LGBTQ rights, and that includes the Vice President. Mr Pence, meanwhile, told Fox News on Thursday that Mr Biden had caved in to liberal activists in apologising for his original comments. When asked for their views on Mr Pence, other Democratic candidates have used the opportunity to distance themselves from Mr Biden, who is believed likely to announce his own 2020 candidacy soon. Mr Buttigieg, who is gay and a fellow Indianan, has been the most aggressive in taking on Mr Pence, a former governor of the state. He has described Mr Pence as the kind of Republican who should know better but is enabling Mr Trump rather than using his influence to rein him in. In a telephone interview, Mr Buttigieg said he has two theories of what he views as Mr Pences evolution from a stalwart Christian conservative to Trump lackey either Mr Pence traded his sense of morality for power, he said, or the vice president has somehow persuaded himself that this is consistent with some divine plan. The president doesnt really pretend that hard to uphold Christian values and so I think theres a sense when hes doing some of these outrageous things, that everybodys in on the joke, Mr Buttigieg said. But with Mr Pence, he added, you dont get that same sense. White House officials said Mr Buttigieg and other Democrats are only trying to raise their profiles by sharpening their attacks on Mr Pence, a strategy they say alienates millions of Christian voters. A senior administration official said Mr Buttigieg and Mr Pence, while disagreeing on a number of issues, had a largely good working relationship in Indiana and cast Mr Buttigiegs recent comments as purely political. The fact that he has more or less become a litmus test for the Democrats in 2020 essentially speaks to the fact that hes become the gold standard for what it means to be a conservative, said Pence spokesperson Alyssa Farah. Mr Pence mainly feels compelled to publicly push back on criticism when he feels Christians or his faith are being unfairly maligned, the officials said. The vice president only seeks to counter Democrats attacks on himself when he believes his record or views are misrepresented, they added. Mr Pences views on women have become something of an obsession for his critics. Mr Pence told the Hill in 2002 that he never eats alone with a woman other than his wife, Karen, and that he will not attend events featuring alcohol without her by his side. Democrats have said this practice discriminates against women in the workplace. The idea that you would deny a professional woman the opportunity to have a meeting with the vice president of the United States is outrageous, Ms Harris said on Thursday on MSNBC. Ms Farah dismissed Ms Harris charge as a false claim. Hes elevated women to positions of leadership throughout his career & relies on their advice & counsel, she wrote on Thursday on Twitter. While aides sometimes publicly defend Mr Pence, the vice president has largely stayed out of the fray and focused his energy on serving Mr Trump, taking political attacks and parrying them back to focus on the administrations policies. Last week, Mr Pence conveyed to Republican senators that voting in favour of the Democratic resolution disapproving of Mr Trumps national emergency declaration would be viewed as voting against both the president and border security and would likely have consequences. Some waverers, like senators Thom Tillis, and Cory Gardner, who are up for re-election in 2020, ultimately voted with the administration. But 12 other Republicans joined 47 Democrats to pass the resolution, forcing the presidents first veto. Earlier this month, another intraparty disagreement emerged when former vice president Richard Cheney challenged Mr Pence directly during a 9 March closed-door retreat hosted by the American Enterprise Institute in Sea Island, Georgia, repeatedly criticising in blunt terms the Trump administrations foreign policy record. Though the Sea Island event was presented as being off the record before accounts leaked, Mr Pences private comments were similar to the robust defence of the president he often offers in public. That unwavering devotion to Mr Trump can come across as servile, even to some allies of the administration. One Republican close to the White House, who requested anonymity to speak frankly, described Mr Pence as Mr Bobblehead, an allusion to his frequent pose nodding alongside Mr Trump. The vice presidents synergy with Mr Trump has long sparked such mockery. During a FEMA briefing in June, Mr Pence silently grabbed a water bottle from a conference table and placed it on the floor immediately after Mr Trump, who was seated next to him, did the same. The video of the synchronised water bottle removal briefly went viral. In an interview with The Washington Post last year, Mr Pence said he simply wanted to move the water bottle out of view from the cameras and happened to do it just as Mr Trump was also moving his water bottle from public view. During another meeting last year in the White House Situation Room, Mr Pence paused the proceedings when he noticed the presidential seal was still hanging on the wall, two people familiar with the moment said. He asked an aide to remove the seal out of respect for the president, who was not present. A vice presidential seal was put in its place, one White House official said, and the meeting continued. The Washington Post 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. WASHINGTON When Democrats argued about a House member's comments on Israel and U.S. lawmakers, many saw it as an emerging dispute between the party's old guard and some of its younger members. President Donald Trump saw it as a political opportunity with Jewish voters. In tweets, public statements and speeches to supporters, Trump and his aides are trying to use claims of anti-Semitism to pry Jewish voters away from their longtime allegiance to the Democratic Party. In his latest effort, a Friday morning tweet, Trump said Jewish people were leaving the Democratic Party in what he called a "Jexodus," though he did not cite evidence for such a shift. He said Republicans were "waiting with open arms" for Jewish voters. "Remember Jerusalem (U.S. Embassy) and the horrible Iran Nuclear Deal!" he tweeted. The phrase "Jexodus" stirred controversy on Twitter with some users calling it offensive to Jewish people. The Jexodus movement encourages Jewish people to leave the Democrat Party. Total disrespect! Republicans are waiting with open arms. Remember Jerusalem (U.S. Embassy) and the horrible Iran Nuclear Deal! @OANN @foxandfriends Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 15, 2019 Democrats increased their share of the Jewish vote between the 2016 and 2018 elections, from 71 percent to 79 percent. A new Gallup report, based on tracking poll data from 2018, said that "one in six U.S. Jews identify as Republican." About half described themselves as Democrats. "'Jexodus' is a Republican fantasy that will fail," said Halie Soifer, executive director of the Jewish Democratic Council of America. Soifer was among many who said they were offended by Trump's term. Story continues Divide and attract it's a familiar tactic for the politically aggressive president who has also tried to woo members of other familiar Democratic constituencies, including women and African-Americans. "He's always stirring the pot," said Stuart Rothenberg, senior editor at the Inside Elections newsletter. Trump's efforts to paint the Democratic party as anti-Jewish came after tweets and comments by freshman Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., who suggested that pro-Israel lobbying groups controlled U.S. lawmakers through political money. While some Democrats said the remarks played into anti-Semitic slurs about how Jewish money controls American politics, Omar said they were "not intended to offend my constituents or Jewish Americans as a whole." Several Democrats said Omar was being attacked unfairly. Trump, meanwhile, went on offense. Seeking to foment Democratic discord, Trump issued a March 5 tweet that described Omar's "terrible comments" as "a dark day for Israel!" Three days later, after a fractious House debate over a resolution condemning hate, Trump raised the stakes while speaking with reporters as he left the White House on a weekend trip to Florida, describing the Democrats as an "anti-Israel party." "They've become an anti-Jewish party and that's too bad," he said while en route to Alabama to review tornado damage. During his weekend in Florida, Trump reportedly went even further: The website Axios reported the president told donors during a fundraiser at this Mar-a-Lago estate that "the Democrats hate Jewish people." Jesse Lehrich, a foreign-policy spokesman for 2016 Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton, said Trump's attacks ring hollow from a man who spoke sympathetically of some of the white supremacists who held a 2017 march in Charlottesville, Virginia. "American Jews overwhelmingly vote Democratic, and a brazen attempt to weaponize anti-Semitism by a man who has mainstreamed bigotry seems like a bad way to win them over," Lehrich said. Matthew Brooks, executive director of the Republican Jewish Coalition, said "there's a lot of enthusiasm and a lot of support" among Jewish voters for what Trump is doing, though he has not seen any new polling on the question. "Everything at this point is anecdotal," he said. Brooks also said Trump is appealing to Jewish donors and was "smart to do so." In terms of elections, Jewish voters have remained overwhelmingly Democratic during the Trump political era. According to exit polling conducted for a consortium of news organizations for the 2016 election, Clinton defeated Trump 71 percent to 24 percent among Jewish voters. In last year's congressional elections, according to those exit polls, Jews broke for Democratic candidates over Republican ones by 79 percent to 17 percent. While Jewish voters are a small part of the electorate 3 percent in 2016; 2 percent in 2018 they are a significant segment in key swing states like Florida and Pennsylvania. That's why the the Trump campaign, and the Democrats, are making a concerted effort to attract them. Soifer, the executive director of the Jewish Democratic Council of America, cited the drop-off of Jewish support for Republicans in the 2018 midterm elections to say that Trump and the GOP are losing traction with these voters. Many voters know that Trump has appeared to welcome support from white supremacists who have also engaged in anti-Semitism, Soifer said: "There is what he tweets and then there is reality." A Gallup report released Thursday said that, according to 2018 data, 52 percent of Jewish-Americans described themselves as Democrats, while only 16 percent identified themselves as Republicans. Among Jewish respondents, 26 percent approved of Trump's performance as president; 71 percent disapproved. Gallup added: "With Jewish Americans representing about 2% of the U.S. population, most opinion polls do not have enough Jewish respondents in a single poll to report reliable estimates for the group." Aides said Trump will continue pursuing Jewish votes as he seeks re-election in 2020. "The long history of anti-Semitism from Ilhan Omar and the failure of House Democrats to take appropriate action in response has shown all Americans that Democrats stand squarely with their radical left base," said Michael Glassner, the campaign's chief operating officer. Trump's basic argument, a claim that Democrats have failed a longtime constituency, is one he has used with other groups of voters, particularly African-Americans and there is evidence he is having success. According to a YouGov daily tracking poll released Monday, 15 percent of African-Americans somewhat or strongly approved of the president's job performance still low but better than his election numbers. Trump carried only 8 percent the African-American vote in 2016, according to exit polls. Rothenberg, the senior editor at Inside Elections, said there is no doubt some Democrats are uncomfortable with some of the new voices in the Democratic Party, but there are also some uncomfortable with Trump and how he "goes overboard" with his "stream-of-consciousness aggression." "Could it move a handful of Jewish votes? Yeah, I guess it could," Rothenberg said. "But, on the other hand, Trump is very simplistic ... He is a very polarizing figure." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Donald Trump predicts Jewish voters will switch to GOP in 'Jexodus.' Democrats call that a fantasy Malabo (Equatorial Guinea) (AFP) - A leading human rights activist in Equatorial Guinea was arrested in the capital Malabo after travelling there to receive an award for his work, his NGO and a police source said Saturday. Alfredo Okenve was arrested at Malabo airport on Friday night when he was about to board a flight to Madrid after the cancellation of an awards ceremony earlier in the day. A leading figure in the country's civil society movement, Okenve is one of the leaders of the Center for Studies and Initiatives for the Development of Equatorial Guinea (CEID-GE), which said he had been flown back home to the port city of Bata and placed under house arrest. The authorities "prevented him from flying to Spain," said Mariano Nkogo, who is also a senior figure within the NGO. He said a military plane had been chartered to fly Okenve back to Bata. "He was asked to remain at home where he is under surveillance. His passport and his mobile phone have been taken by the security forces," he told AFP. His arrest was also confirmed by a police officer at the airport and by the opposition Convergence for Social Democracy (CPDS) whose members have been previously targeted in a crackdown by President Teodoro Obiang Nguema, who has ruled the West African state for 39 years. Okenve had arrived in Malabo on Thursday, a day ahead of a ceremony at the French Institute where he was to receive the Franco-German Prize for Human Rights and the Rule of Law from French and German ambassadors. But Friday afternoon's award ceremony was cancelled after the Guinean government sent a formal note to the envoys' representatives saying it did not recognise the award, a regional diplomatic source said. "Due to the lack of transparency in the awarding of this prize, the government of Equatorial Guinea cannot recognise its validity," said the note, a copy of which was seen by AFP. The French and German embassies then postponed the ceremony. Story continues In late October, Okenve was seized and beaten by unidentified men who left him in a remote area of Bata. He then went to Madrid to seek medical care, only returning home in mid-February. He had previously been detained for several days for celebrating the 20-year anniversary of his organisation. Critics accuse 76-year-old Obiang, Africa's longest-serving leader, of the brutal repression of opponents as well as election fraud and corruption. Courtesy Janet When Janet, 42, suddenly noticed a bump on the side of her nose while looking in the mirror, she assumed it was a harmless pimple. Two days later, things got weird, the iHeartRadio host in Oklahoma City tells Reader's Digest: "It just sort of self-exploded, and then it began bleeding excessively," she recalls. For the next three weeks, Janet watched as the spot on her face scabbed over and bled repeatedly. Finally, her husband convinced her to go to the doctor. "He's a firefighter, so he's seen everything. I really thought the doctor was going to laugh that I came in for a zit," she explains. To her disbelief, her doctor referred her to a dermatologist. "My primary care doctor said he was willing to bet I had basal cell carcinoma. The dermatologist confirmed it with a biopsy. I was shocked," she says. Make sure you know the different skin cancer symptoms when you're checking your own body. A tanning bed aficionado since her teens and an avid runner who disregarded sunscreen, Janet was especially susceptible to skin cancerwhich happens to be the most common type of cancer. "I begged my mom to sign permission slips for tanning beds when I was 16, and I tanned before every vacation. Looking back, I'm not surprised I got it," she explains. Tanning and not using sunscreen are just two common cancer risksdon't ignore these surprising skin cancer risks either. After undergoing a separate surgery to remove a dime-sized chunk of her nose, Janet's next stop was a plastic surgeon to restore her appearance. Her options were limited: "A skin graft isn't desirable on the face because the color never matches," she says. "My doctor said I wouldn't be satisfied with it, and recommended the flap surgery instead." For this procedure, the surgeon would transfer skin from a discrete spot on her forehead to patch her nose and thenprepare yourselfroute a vein from her forehead to supply the patch until the skin can survive on its own. And that vein is left hanging from the forehead and connected to the nose in a sort of loop in front of her face. Janet asked her surgeon what the recovery was like. "He said that I could return [to work] after a few days, but most people take three weeks off to heal because they don't want to leave the house looking that way," she recalls. Janet chose the flap surgery and immediately afterward understood why most people take the three weeks at home. "I cried almost every day, it was such a painful open woundand emotionally it was just a very dark time," she recalls. "I tried to go shopping at Target, and people would just stareor worseleave the aisle entirely," she says. Tired of the curious stares from strangers, and even those of friends, Janet went "live" on Facebook to explain her new look. "After the video, I received so many notes from others undergoing the same treatment who felt comforted that they weren't alone," she recalls. It was exactly the push she needed to become more vocal about her diagnosis. "It's heartbreaking to me to think that others going through this feel like they need to hide," she explains. Courtesy Janet After Janet had her final stitches and the vein removed, she says, "I remember leaving the doctor's office and feeling like I made it." Today, Janet is cancer-free and visits her dermatologist twice a year. She has partnered with the Miles Against Melanoma Foundation and has found educating others to be rewarding. Her words of encouragement to those facing a skin cancer diagnosis are simple, yet memorable: "You will feel the sunshine on your face againjust wear your sunscreen." That being said, make sure you know these 51 things dermatologists need you to know about skin cancer. Floodwaters are devastating parts of the Nebraska on Friday, but this weekend is what emergency officials are keeping an eye on as rivers are expected to crest. Our Geoff Cornish spoke with the Public Information Officer about what they are watching in the days ahead. Last week, I wrote about the Berthe Morisot retrospective in Dallas. Its a very good show presenting the work of a fine artist. Its sound scholarly and aesthetic points were nearly smothered by incessant assertions that Morisot, after all a woman impressionist, was thwarted and minimized during her lifetime and in the many years since, by misogynist critics, scholars, and the marketplace. Neither is true. Morisots work was in all but one of the impressionist rebel salons. She was favorably reviewed and got some digs. Her subject matter is limited, though, and that has affected her critical reception. She painted women and babies mostly, but that was her choice. She wasnt locked in a harem. She could have painted any subject she wanted, possibly with the exception of a brothel. When I was a student, Morisot got as much attention in impressionist scholarship and classes as, say, Sisley, the purest of impressionists. Boudin, Caillebotte, and Bazille were in the big impressionist shows in the 1870s, Bazille after his early death, but each of these great painters figures far less in the established storyline of avant-garde art than Morisot or Mary Cassatt. Was Morisot unfairly advantaged because she was rich, or because she was married to Manets brother? Who knows, and who cares. Its always best to let the work do most of the talking. Why make her gender so big a part of her story? Having taken a dose of castor oil thats identity politics today, I was happy to see a show of the work of he who cleanses all palettes: Rembrandt. All the Rembrandts is the new show at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam commemorating the 350th anniversary of his death in 1669. Here, Amsterdams national museum displays all its work by Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn (16061669): 300 prints, drawings, and paintings. And the message we get is as bracing, and disarming, a blast of air as any social-justice warrior could get. Rembrandt was unique. Story continues By this I mean everyone is unique, but that very conception in Rembrandts time was new and undeveloped. Rembrandt embraced individuality at a point when concepts such as autonomy, agency, idiosyncrasy, and personal thought, possessed by all of humankind, were either newly recognized or revitalized by opportunity and an egalitarian spirit. Amsterdam in his day was basically a new city with a new economy, a high-spirited, inventive, and entrepreneurial economy we call capitalist. The social order was bourgeois, with more people than ever able to crawl from squalor and make their own fortunes. The show begins with a selection of about 20 of Rembrandts small, etched self-portraits from the late 1620s to around 1630. As far as we know, an artists study of himself of this depth and complexity was unprecedented. Rembrandt was a pronounced narcissist, to be sure. He adored himself. He was also his own model, and a cost-free one. These are tiny, three inches square, but here he is, with a baby face, wild curls, and a nose that looks like a tulip bulb. Theyre like photo-booth snapshots: minimalist busts, no backgrounds, and informal. Hes wearing work clothes. He scowls. He pouts. He laughs. Hes open-mouthed. Hes wide-eyed. In the magical 1628 painted self-portrait, a heavy shadow covers his eyes and forehead. We see enough of the rest of his face, and that mop of red hair we know its Rembrandt. In Rembrandts time, that shadow signaled that the subject was melancholic. Melancholy was not just being down-in-the-dumps. It was a condition that affected the immensely creative and intelligent with, as a leading French doctor of the day wrote, a kindle of divine ravishment, commonly called Enthusiasma. Rembrandt was a fanatically fast and focused artist. What he offered to his patrons was not surface sparkle or the hallmarks of status but a peak into minds, showing a complex and unique machine of thought that each individual possessed. Left: Self-portrait, c. 1628. Rembrandt van Rijn. (Rijksmuseum/Purchased with the support of the Vereniging Rembrandt, the Stichting tot Bevordering van de Belangen van het Rijksmuseum and the ministerie van CRM) Right: Self-Portrait as the Apostle Paul, 1661. Rembrandt van Rijn (Rijksmuseum/De Bruijn-van der Leeuw Bequest, Muri, Switzerland) Last year, I wrote about a Rembrandt show in Edinburgh focusing on how British artists and collectors saw Rembrandt. I called it a selective retrospective, covering his career with great and small things, filtered by English taste. This is a retrospective, too, but with another twist. The Rijksmuseum had only two paintings by Rembrandt until a craze for his work started to empty the Netherlands of its Rembrandts in the 1880s. Rembrandt was, in the 1630s and early 1640s, the hippest artist in Amsterdam, then on the bleeding edge of modern cities. By the 1650s, he was yesterdays man, painting in a dark, moody style when rich people wanted dash and sparkle. Of the 22 paintings in All the Rembrandts, most came to the museum after 1960. Its an offbeat selection, but what a selection. The newest additions arrived in 2015. Theyre the two spectacular full-length portraits of Marten Soolmans and his wife, Oopjen, from 1634. Theyre his only full-length double portraits. These grand wedding portraits depicted a young, ostentatious, rich couple in a format reserved in the past for aristocrats, though these two came from new money. They wore all the best and newest fashion accessories, down to the giant rosettes on Martens high-heeled shoes. These two were the Jared and Ivanka of their time, before the White House gig. Amsterdam in the 1630s was our Manhattan, big, new, bustling, bursting, proud, and rich. By the mid 1630s, Rembrandt was part of this new monied class. Though described by many of his biographers as a millers son, Rembrandts parents were well-off. He married a woman from a prosperous family and was himself a yuppie, though an intense and hard-working one. The Jewish Bride, one of his last paintings, is there, as is the 1628 Self-Portrait and, a gripping contrast, the 1661 Self-Portrait, showing Rembrandt as an old man. Militia Company of District II under the Command of Captain Frans Banninck Cocq (The Night Watch), 1642, by Rembrandt van Rijn. (Rijksmuseum/On loan from the City of Amsterdam) Of course, The Night Watch is there. Done in 1642, its the group portrait of Captain Frans Banninck Cocq and 17 other civic guardsmen of the local Amsterdam version of our National Guard. It was Amsterdams largest painting, commissioned for the civic guards banquet hall. Its worth a trip to Amsterdam on its own. First, it broke the convention of group portraiture as a boring line of heads, poses stiff, figures looking like stuffed antelopes. Second, while Rembrandt was already Amsterdams best-known artist, this picture cemented his fame in the 19th century, by which time it was one of the worlds best-known paintings. Rembrandt conceived the scene not as static but as dynamic, or, better put, ignited. He set them in motion, a scramble of gestures, glances, sashes swinging and muskets glinting. Light and shadow appear in irregular, unexpected spots. Guns are cocked and dogs bark. Its part play-acting and part opera. Costumes and armor span a century of style. Young men, young women, old people, children, and assorted animals create not a melee but a call to action. Rembrandt turns these weekend warriors into heroes. Theyre volunteers, almost all were local burghers, and Amsterdam hadnt been attacked in anyones lifetime. He made the mundane majestic. For me, the glory of the show isnt in the paintings. Mostly, its a print show. The paintings are part of the story, but theyre additive and not overwhelming, and they certainly dont control the storyline. The Night Watch is in a separate part of the museum. The Rijksmuseum always had a superb collection of Rembrandt etchings, and to me hes as much a revered, transformative printmaker as a painter. In his case, the two media are complementary. Prints are personal. Theyre small things meant to be held and scrutinized. Its an egalitarian medium. A print is a mechanical reproduction and can be distributed. It promotes direct storytelling since its black and white and linear, though these properties invite endless and rich manipulations. Etching is the freest of media. The artist is sketching a design with a needle onto a waxed piece of copper. A confident, nimble artist can make a statement that looks fresh and spontaneous. There are lots of prints in the show, which means close looking is essential. Im drawn to the simple heads of bearded old men, some turbaned and some with heavy cloaks. These are the most minimalist things, but with a few lines Rembrandt presents figures of majesty and gravity, sculptural forms, and faces with the look of experience. In Rembrandts lifetime, though, his bigger religious narrative prints were highly prized as portable devotional pieces. Christ Preaching from 1648 became known as The Hundred Guilder Print because it was pricey, but it covers the entire 19th chapter of the Book of Matthew. Its an altarpiece you can hold in your hands. Here, Jesus, the Light of the World, stands as both a beacon and a hub for a disparate crowd. Rembrandt assembled and organized multiple figures to conflate separate stories and lessons into one image. Christ instructs the Apostle Peter to suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come to me, tells a crowd its easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to get into heaven, and advises a prosperous-looking young man to go and sell what thou hast, and give to the poor if he really wants to achieve perfection. Rich, poor, the sick, and disputing Pharisees ebb and flow in pools of dark and light to create a small but authoritative universe. When he was making prints, Rembrandt was like a novelist, always thinking about what stories would sell. In prints, where he made a lot of money, he wasnt working on a commission for a portrait or an altarpiece where he knew what the buyers wanted beforehand. He had to intuit the marketplace for ideas. Many of his religious prints, such as King David Praying, from 1652, simply put people in a pious frame of mind. Its a sumptuous, elegant image. Since David had so much for which to seek Gods forgiveness, its infinitely suggestive. Left: Self-portrait with Tousled Hair, c. 1628 c.1629. Rembrandt van Rijnb. (Rijksmuseum/De Bruijn-van der Leeuw Bequest, Muri, Switzerland) Right: Self-portrait with the forearm leaning on a stone threshold, 1639. Rembrandt van Rijn. (Rijksmuseum) Rembrandts personal life was like a soap opera, with multiple women, sudden deaths, endless money problems, and bad decision making on his part owing to pride, hubris, and fits of pique. He did no self-portraits in the 1640s, presenting himself at his most dapper Self-Portrait Leaning on a Stone Sill in 1639 but in 1648, after a long lapse, as a flattened-out, tired middle-aged man in Self-Portrait Etching at a Window. His woes in the interim were considerable. All of this is less visible in the show than in the unusually good biographical catalogue. Its paperback, printed on paper Id call economical rather than cheap, written in a direct, conversational style, and filled with good material. Its nicely but not lavishly illustrated. Its one curators point of view, but its a lifetimes worth of experience looking at these objects, so its opinionated and certainly not ponderous. The Syndics from 1662 distills Rembrandts portrait style and his age. Its direct and observational. These men, the sampling committee upholding the quality of drapers guild goods, are on a mission. Theyre the quality-control guys. Theyre standard keepers and have to look intimidating. They are always on the move, dont waste time, and we might be interrupting them. Its a snapshot of a moment in a city that never sleeps. Rembrandt captures the moment, with its nuances and textures. Hes not about to miss a beat, either. Its a great show. Rembrandt is an artist for any age where individuals are allowed freedom to think and act. The Van Gogh Museum, next store to the Rijkmuseum, offers a show on David Hockneys recent landscapes. Rembrandt offers us meat and potatoes; Hockney, cotton candy, all very pretty, airy, and leaving the soul unnourished. More from National Review Moscow (AFP) - A China-funded project to bottle water from Russia's Lake Baikal has caused a backlash in Siberia, where people are increasingly angry about what they see as a Chinese land-grab. Ecologists and local authorities have previously touted bottling the water of the world's largest lake as a "green" way of profiting from Siberia's natural resources. But a petition calling on Russian "patriots" to demand the removal of an under-construction "Chinese plant on the shores of our Lake Baikal" has gathered almost a million signatures. The water "will be shipped to China," the petition says, warning that the facility will block local access to the lake and "inflict irreparable damage" to the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The campaign to shut down the project has spread across social media in recent months without involvement by major environmental NGOs. The plant was already under construction on the southern tip of the lake, which holds one-fifth of the planet's fresh water. But on Friday, following the backlash, a Russian court ordered that building work be halted until complaints of violations could be investigated. The company building the plant, previously lauded by the regional government, says it is surprised by the criticism. - 'Baikal on tap' - The plant in question, in the village of Kultuk, is built by the Russian AkvaSib company, which had plans to start production later this year. But the financial backing comes from a company called "Baikal Lake" based in China's Daqing, according to a statement from the Irkutsk authorities in 2017, when they gave the $21-million project priority status. AkvaSib representative Alexei Azarov said it passed through necessary hearings and got the green light after an environmental assessment. "Nobody was against it" at the time, he told AFP. Azarov said the facility would not close off village access to the lake, and would provide the locals with 150 jobs, and authorities with tax revenue. Story continues Siberian environmentalist Alexander Kolotov said there were some problems with the plant's location, but that the "anti-China factor is very clear" in the current protest. The case "hits the bullseye of the fears and stereotypes of modern Russians, that 'China will gulp down our national heritage'." It follows similar protests against China cutting down forests across Siberia, which have led some regions to cancel agreements with Chinese companies. Chinese presence in the region exploded after the ruble crashed in 2014 and the Russian government eased tourist visa restrictions. As tourism and business grew, so did local distrust. Last week a state TV report "Baikal on Tap" focussed on a Chinese hotel for Chinese tourists officially listed as a private home. The TV crew unsuccessfully tried to interview the man in charge who did not speak Russian. "Where is your food permit?" the presenter shouted as the tourists consumed their lunch, ignoring her. "What kind of food is this?" she asked, opening pots. - 'Red rag to a bull' - "For Siberians, there are two things that are like a red rag to a bull and cause an immediate reaction," said Svetlana Pavlova, chief editor of Irkutsk-based IRK.ru news website. "One is the Chinese which 'have taken over everything and leave trash' and the second is encroachment on the lake. And here it so happens that the company building the plant is 99%-owned by Chinese nationals." She said the construction boom of often illegal hotels infuriates locals because they themselves cannot get permission to build anything on protected shore. Locals also don't earn money from Chinese tourists who are serviced by Chinese firms on Baikal, she said. "There has been a cumulative effect" which resulted in the anti-plant backlash, Pavlova added. "People are tired of government inaction." Denis Bukalov, a campaigner against the project based in Irkutsk, however said "it's not not important that it's the Chinese". Construction had "ruined" the shoreline in Kultuk after the "illegal" portioning off of land, according to the campaigner. He said the plant set a dangerous precedent. "You can see on the map of registered land ownership that seven parcels of land are set aside for bottling water" nearby, he said. "They will turn Baikal into a swamp," he told AFP. Ecologists point out the project has not accounted for its location on wetlands important for birds. The area is a key feeding ground during migration seasons, with 130 different bird species recorded there. Some of those have protected status, said biologist Igor Fefelov of Russian Bird Conservation Union. This "was not even mentioned" in the plant's environmental assessment, he said. Irkutsk region governor Sergei Levchenko, who backed the plant in 2017, has flipped 180 degrees in the face of growing protest. "The site is environmentally protected land on all sides," he said this week. "I think this is insurmountable. I don't see the potential for bottling water there." Environmentalist Kolotov said the project would likely turn off others from efforts to experiment with green businesses on the lake. "It's as if the project was designed especially to discredit the idea of bottling Baikal water," he said. By Foo Yun Chee BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Alphabet unit Google is likely to be hit with a third EU antitrust fine next week related to its AdSense advertising service, a person familiar with the matter said on Friday, with the sanction expected to be much smaller than previous fines. The European Commission in 2016 opened a third case against the world's most popular internet search engine by accusing Google of preventing third parties using its AdSense product from displaying search advertisements from Google's competitors. It said that Google, which at that time had held 80 percent of the European market for search advertising intermediation over the previous ten years, had kept its anti-competitive practices for a decade. In response, Google changed the conditions in its AdSense contracts with large third parties, giving them more leeway to display competing search ads. European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager earlier this month told reporters that she was finalising the case. The Commission on Friday declined to comment on the timing of the AdSense decision. Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Financial Times earlier reported on next week's European Union antitrust fine. Last year, Vestager slapped a record 4.34 billion euro ($4.91 billion) fine on Google for using its popular Android mobile operating system to block rivals. That following a 2.4 billion euro fine imposed on the company in 2017 for blocking rivals of shopping comparison websites. The AdSense case may not be end of Google's EU antitrust woes. EU antitrust enforcers have asked Google's rivals if it unfairly demotes local search competitors, according to a questionnaire seen by Reuters, a move which could lead to a fourth case. Online mapping services and others could also soon be in the spotlight. ($1 = 0.8839 euros) (Reporting by Foo Yun Chee; Editing by Jan Harvey) By buying an index fund, you can roughly match the market return with ease. But if you choose individual stocks with prowess, you can make superior returns. Just take a look at Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group Limited (HKG:1929), which is up 63%, over three years, soundly beating the market return of 28% (not including dividends). See our latest analysis for Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group To quote Buffett, Ships will sail around the world but the Flat Earth Society will flourish. There will continue to be wide discrepancies between price and value in the marketplace One flawed but reasonable way to assess how sentiment around a company has changed is to compare the earnings per share (EPS) with the share price. Over the last three years, Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group failed to grow earnings per share, which fell 0.5% (annualized). Given the share price resilience, we dont think the (declining) EPS numbers are a good measure of how the business is moving forward, right now. Therefore, it makes sense to look into other metrics. Interestingly, the dividend has increased over time; so that may have given the share price a boost. Sometimes yield-chasing investors will flock to a company if they think the dividend can grow over time. You can see how revenue and earnings have changed over time in the image below, (click on the chart to see cashflow). SEHK:1929 Income Statement, March 16th 2019 Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group is a well known stock, with plenty of analyst coverage, suggesting some visibility into future growth. If you are thinking of buying or selling Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group stock, you should check out this free report showing analyst consensus estimates for future profits. What About Dividends? It is important to consider the total shareholder return, as well as the share price return, for any given stock. The TSR incorporates the value of any discounted capital raisings, along with any dividends, based on the assumption that the dividends are reinvested. Its fair to say that the TSR gives a more complete picture for stocks that pay a dividend. We note that for Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group the TSR over the last 3 years was 101%, which is better than the share price return mentioned above. This is largely a result of its dividend payments! Story continues A Different Perspective Although it hurts that Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group returned a loss of 3.3% in the last twelve months, the broader market was actually worse, returning a loss of 9.0%. Given the total loss of 2.4% per year over five years, it seems returns have deteriorated in the last twelve months. While some investors do well specializing in buying companies that are struggling (but nonetheless undervalued), dont forget that Buffett said that turnarounds seldom turn. Before forming an opinion on Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group you might want to consider the cold hard cash it pays as a dividend. This free chart tracks its dividend over time. But note: Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group may not be the best stock to buy. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with past earnings growth (and further growth forecast). Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on HK exchanges. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. Gambian President Adama Barrow has sacked Vice President Ousainou Darboe and two ministers, a statement by the presidency said on Friday. This is the second major cabinet reshuffle by Barrow since 2017. The president appointed Health Minister Dr. Isatou Touray as new vice president. Touray will also oversee the Ministry of Health until further notice, the statement added. The sacking followed months of tension between Barrow and his party since coming to power. Meanwhile, Amadou Sanneh -- former Minister of Trade, Regional Integration, Industry and Employment -- has also been relieved of duty. Sanneh has been replaced by Lamin Jobe. The president also sacked Minister of Agriculture Lamin N. Dibba. His ministry will be overseen by James Gomez, Gambias minister of fisheries and water resources. Source: aa.com.tr Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The death toll of Friday's terrorist attacks in New Zealand that killed 50 could have been higher if not for the actions of a man that witnesses and survivors are calling a hero. Abdul Aziz, 48, likely saved lives when he engaged the gunman in a cat-and-mouse chase outside the mosque and later grabbed one of the shooter's own guns that had been tossed to the ground. He used that firearm to smash the windshield of the gunman's car, prompting him to speed away, Aziz and witnesses of one of the two mosque shootings at Christchurch say, according to the Associated Press and other media outlets. Aziz gave his account in an on-camera interview with New Zealand-based Newshub. He was at the Linwood Mosque, where eight people were killed. The shooter had arrived by vehicle from Al Noor Mosque, a couple of miles away, where he had already gunned down 41 people. Those figures were based on earlier reports before one more victim died Sunday at one of the scenes. "I got to be honest it wasn't me, it was God who saved everybody," Aziz said. His actions began when the gunman arrived and advanced toward the mosque, killing those in his path. Aziz picked up a nearby credit card machine and ran outside yelling, "Come here!" Aziz, who had four children inside the mosque, said the gunman started shooting his way and that he ducked between cars of the parking lot. His goal was to distract the shooter so others who were inside could escape. At first, his plan didn't work. Abdul Aziz, survivor of mosque shooting speaks to Associated Press during an interview in Christchurch, New Zealand, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Aziz, 48, is being hailed as a hero for preventing more deaths during Friday prayers at the Linwood mosque in Christchurch. The gunman killed 49 people after attacking two mosques in the deadliest mass shooting in New Zealands modern history. Seven were killed at the Linwood mosque. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian) ORG XMIT: BKWS104 I wanted him to chase me in the car park as it would save more people in the masjid, but he didn't see me probably," he said. He said the gunman ran back to his car to get another gun, and Aziz hurled the credit card machine at him, according to the Associated Press. He said he could hear his two youngest sons, aged 11 and 5, urging him to come back inside. Aziz then went to the back and picked up a gun the shooter had abandoned that was next to a dead body. He squeezed the trigger but it had no bullets. Story continues He said he continued to see gunshots flying through the mosque, and so he yelled out, "I'm outside, come outside.'" The gunman dropped the gun he was using, Aziz said in a separate interview with The Sun. The shooter then returned to his car for a second time to grab another loaded rifle. That's when Aziz said he threw the gun he had picked up "like an arrow" at the windshield of the shooter's car. "It blasted his window, and he thought I probably shot him or something and ... he drove off and I kept chasing him," he said. Aziz said the gunman shouted expletives at him before he sped off. Video from another driver indicates that police officers managed to force the car from the road and drag out the suspect soon after. Aziz, originally from Afghanistan, moved to Australia as a refugee and lived there for 25 years. He said he moved to New Zealand a couple of years ago. Latef Alabi, who served as the Linwood mosque's acting imam, told Newshub that he believes Aziz saved many lives by managing to keep the shooter from entering the mosque. "He was more than a hero," Alabi said. "I see him as a brother. I have so much belief in him, what he has done so far since he has come to New Zealand s amazing. He's done amazing work in (this) community." "Honestly speaking, I believe he saved more lives. Because I do think if he managed to get in the mosque, we were all gone probably." Alabi said he heard a voice outside the mosque at about 1:55 p.m., prompting him to stop the prayer he was leading to look outside a window. He saw a guy in black military-style gear and a helmet holding a large gun, and assumed it was a police officer. Then he saw two bodies and heard the gunman yelling obscenities. I realized this is something else. This is a killer, he told the AP. Alabi yelled for the congregation to get down, and soon shots came through the window. Aziz then sprang into action and went right after the gunman. "He managed to overpower him, and thats how we were saved, Alabi said. Aziz called the gunman, later identified as a 28-year-old white supremacist, a "coward." "To come and kill innocent people, he is a coward, he isn't a man," Aziz said. "We were all praying. We weren't doing anything wrong." Contributing: Associated Press This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How a hero in New Zealand mosque attack used cat-and-mouse chase, shooter's own gun to save lives By David Morgan WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved a non-binding resolution on Thursday calling for Special Counsel Robert Mueller's upcoming report on his probe into Russia's role in the 2016 election to be released to Congress and the public. The 420-0 House vote, with four conservative Republican lawmakers voting "present," gave Democrats who control the chamber a political victory and put pressure on Attorney General William Barr to make the report public after Mueller submits it to him. But the resolution does not force Barr to do so. The measure faces an uncertain future in the Republican-led Senate. A bid by the Senate's top Democrat, Chuck Schumer, to have the resolution approved by voice vote after the House's action was thwarted by Republican Senator Lindsey Graham. Mueller has been investigating since May 2017 whether Trump's campaign conspired with Moscow and whether the president has unlawfully tried to obstruct the probe. Trump has denied collusion and obstruction. Russia has denied election interference. Mueller has not indicated when he will complete the report, though an announcement on Thursday about the coming departure of a senior prosecutor on his team stoked speculation that it could be soon. Justice Department regulations governing special counsels give Barr latitude in deciding how much of the report to make public. The rules require him to notify the top Democrats and Republicans on the House and Senate judiciary committees after Mueller completes his probe. They do not require release of the report but also do not prevent Barr from giving the entire document to Congress. The resolution, introduced last week by the heads of six House oversight committees that are investigating Trump, calls on Barr to make public everything in the Mueller report that is not expressly prohibited by law and to provide the entire document to Congress. The vote put the vast majority of House Republicans on record as supporting broad disclosure of the report on an investigation that Trump has called a "witch hunt" led by "thugs." Four members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, a group strongly allied with Trump, voted "present." The four were Representatives Justin Amash, Matt Gaetz, Thomas Massie and Paul Gosar. Seven lawmakers - four Democrats and three Republicans - did not vote. 'FULL TRANSPARENCY' Representative Jerry Nadler, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee and author of the resolution, said on the House floor: "It is important that Congress stand up for the principle of full transparency at a time when the president has publicly attacked the Russia investigation more than 1,100 times and counting." The House panel's top Republican, Representative Doug Collins, backed the resolution but described it as a restatement of the regulations that give Barr the option of releasing the full report. "During his confirmation, Attorney General Barr said he wants to be transparent with Congress and the public, consistent with the rules and the law. We have no reason to think Attorney General Barr would back away from those statements," Collins said. Barr, a Trump nominee who took over the Justice Department last month, replaced Jeff Sessions, who the president ousted in November after long complaining that the former senator had recused himself in 2017 from overseeing the Russia probe. As Schumer tried to get the Mueller resolution approved by voice vote, the senator said on the Senate floor: "The American people have an undeniable right to see the results of that investigation." Graham, a Trump ally, blocked the action unless Democrats backed a move they oppose: the appointment of a special counsel to investigate Democratic former President Barack Obama's administration's handling of an investigation into Hillary Clinton's use of a private email server as secretary of state and FBI surveillance of a Trump campaign official. Some Democrats have voiced concern that Barr could withhold evidence of possible misconduct by Trump, under Justice Department policies that oppose bringing criminal charges against a sitting president and discourage releasing explanations when a person has not been charged with a crime. House Democrats already have vowed to subpoena the report and go to court if necessary to win its full release. The Mueller investigation so far has resulted in criminal charges against 34 individuals and three companies, seven guilty pleas and one conviction following a jury trial. (Reporting by David Morgan; Editing by Will Dunham) By Brendan O'Brien (Reuters) - A hung jury was declared on Friday in the attempted manslaughter trial of a Florida policeman charged in the shooting of an unarmed black caretaker for a mentally ill man who was holding a toy truck mistaken for a gun. The six-member Miami-Dade County jury also acquitted the North Miami police officer, Jonathan Aledda, of a single misdemeanor count of culpable negligence in the non-fatal 2016 shooting. The jury failed to reach a unanimous verdict on two counts of attempted manslaughter and a second negligence count, a state attorney spokeswoman said. Prosecutors will decide by March 27 whether to pursue the three undecided charges, Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle said in a statement. "The difficulties posed by this case are clearly represented by the jurys inability to come to a verdict on three of the four charged offenses," she said. The jury began its deliberations late on Thursday in the trial, which started on March 7. The case gained national attention after cellphone video of the incident emerged showing behavioral therapist Charles Kinsey, who is black, lying in the middle of a street, complying with police orders with his hands raised, at the time he was shot in the leg. The shooting by Aledda, who is white, came amid a spate of police shootings of unarmed black men across the United States that fueled a debate over racial bias in the criminal justice system and the use of lethal tactics by law enforcement. Kinsey had been working as a caretaker for Arnoldo Rios Soto, a 27-year-old man with severe autism who had left a nearby group home where he requires 24-hour attention, according to court records. By the time Kinsey caught up with Rios on the afternoon of July 18, 2016, police had received a call from a motorist who reported seeing Rios holding what appeared to be a gun but turned out to be a toy tanker truck, court documents say. Based on the motorist's account, police dispatchers issued a bulletin describing a man with a gun possibly considering suicide. Story continues Aledda was one of six officers who responded to the call. He testified on Wednesday that when he fired his gun, he was aiming at Rios because the autistic man had turned and pointed the object in his hand at Kinsey, who was lying on the ground next to him. Aledda said he, too, believed the object was a gun. "So at that point I just had to fire my shot, or else I thought the black male was going to get executed in front of me," he testified, referring to Kinsey. Asked under cross-examination about a police radio transmission declaring that the object Rios was holding was a toy, Aledda insisted that he never heard it. Aledda, who fired his gun three times, was the only officer on the scene to use their weapon. (Reporting by Brendan O'Brien in Milwaukee; Editing by Steve Gorman and Tom Brown) Could JetBlue be ready to launch service to London? Thats long been a source of speculation in the airline industry, and that seems only likely to increase after some of the most direct comments yet by the carriers executives. "Were actively looking at it now, JetBlue CEO Robin Hayes said about the possibility of London service in an interview with The Independent. What JetBlue has always done since we started nearly 20 years ago is bring low fares with a better service, and wed love to bring that to Europe, Hayes added to London newspaper. Hayes offered no specifics about when such service might begin, but he did offer some details as to what it might look like if it was added. London flights would operate from JetBlues two busiest hubs New York JFK and Boston and would be on Airbus A321LR narrowbody jets. The LR stands for long range, meaning the aircraft could easily handle trans-Atlantic routes between the U.S. Northeast and much of western Europe. JetBlue does not currently have any A321LRs in its fleet, but it is expected to begin receiving the first of more than 80 Airbus A321neos this year. JetBlues order with Airbus gives it the option convert some of those deliveries to the long-range variant. IN PHOTOS: Airbus delivers U.S.-made A321 to JetBlue Hayes told the Independent that business-class fares on competitors' routes like Boston-London have risen so much that theres a lot of room to come in and undercut those with JetBlues new Mint lie-flat seats. He pointed to whats happened on cross-country routes in the USA where JetBlue has rolled out those seats. Since we launched (Mint), transcontinental fares have approximately halved, he said to the Independent. The Independent noted the airline's staff has been alerted to an April 10 meeting in New York described as a chat about JetBlues vision and strategy. Hayes is scheduled to deliver a speech to the Aviation Club in London on April 11. Story continues Despite the attempt to connect the dots, JetBlue said its not ready to reveal anything definitive about the launch of London flights. As weve said previously, we plan to announce our decision on the Long Range version of the A321 in 2019, JetBlue spokesman Doug McGraw said in an email to USA TODAYs Today in the Sky blog. The transatlantic market especially in the premium category suffers from the same lack of competition and high fares that transcon routes in the U.S. saw before JetBlue introduced Mint. Potential routes to Europe could provide us an opportunity to grow our focus cities of Boston and New York as we consider the best use of our aircraft from a margin perspective in those cities. Stay tuned TODAY IN THE SKY: JetBlue unveils special 'RetroJet' paint scheme This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Is JetBlue ready to launch flights to London? Joe Giudice is in ICE custody in western Pennsylvania. Giudice, known to fans for his appearances on Bravos The Real Housewives of New Jersey, was transferred in the early morning of Thursday, March 14 into the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement after he finished serving his 41-month sentence for tax fraud at the Allenwood Low Federal Correctional Institution in Pennsylvania. Mr. Giudice has finished serving his federal prison sentence and was transferred early this morning from the Bureau of Prisons to a facility in western Pennsylvania which houses immigration detainees, said Giudice's lawyer, James J. Leonard Jr., in a statement to the USA TODAY Network. His lawyers and his family are hopeful that justice will prevail and Mr. Guidice will return home to his wife and four daughters who love him and miss him, Leonard Jr. said. Giudice, 46, is the husband of Teresa Giudice, star of Real Housewives of New Jersey. They have four daughters, Gia, 17, Gabriella, 15, Milania, 13, and Audriana, 10. 'Families shouldn't be broken up': Teresa Giudice on husband's deportation case Joe Giuidice deportation case: Teresa Giudice considering contacting Trump for help An immigration court ruled in October 2018 that Giudice was to be deported back to Italy upon the completion of his federal sentence. The government can deport anyone who is not a U.S. citizen if they commit a crime. Giudice was brought from Italy to the United States by his parents when he was a 1-year-old and he never became a U.S. citizen. The Montville, New Jersey, resident is appealing the deportation ruling. Teresa Giudice served 11 months in prison for a related fraud conviction. She said she'd remain in the United States with their four children if Joe gets deported. Story continues Its like starting a whole new life, and (my kids) have been through so much already, she said on The Real Housewives of New Jersey reunion episode, which aired March 6. So, I mean, Im not doing a long-distance relationship. Im just not doing it. You know, I want somebody with me every day. And I know exactly what happens, like, Im sure hell be with other women. It happens. So, if we do the long-distance thing, its not going to work. Id be like, bye-bye. Chris Jordan: cjordan@app.com This article originally appeared on North Jersey Record: Joe Giudice, husband of 'RHONJ' star Teresa Giudice, in ICE custody pending deportation The world is in mourning after at least one white supremacist opened fire at two mosques in New Zealand, killing at least 41 people and seriously injuring around 20 more. Celebrities quickly took to social media to offer words of support to the community and express disgust. KABUL (Reuters) - Afghanistan summoned a senior Pakistani diplomat on Saturday to account for remarks by Prime Minister Imran Khan speculating about a new government in Kabul following a possible peace settlement. The summons by the Afghan foreign affairs ministry marked the second time in just over three weeks that Kabul has demanded an explanation from Pakistan, illustrating the longstanding tensions between the two neighbors at a sensitive time. Khan, at a rally in Bajaur, in northwestern Pakistan on Friday, predicted "mutual peace" in Afghanistan as an outcome of recurring talks between the United States and the Taliban to end the country's 17-year-old war. "A good government will come in Afghanistan," Khan said. "I mean a government will come in which all will be represented. War will end and there will be peace." The Afghan ministry summoned Pakistan's counselor to clarify the remarks, spokesperson Sibghatullah Ahmadi tweeted. "Afghanistan expressed its grave objection on Pakistan's government and deemed such remarks a flagrant interference in its internal affairs," he said. In February, the ministry summoned Pakistani ambassador Zahid Nasrullah Khan over his remarks that Afghan peace talks could be affected if India resorted to violence against Pakistan. The summons to Pakistan comes a day after a top official in President Ashraf Ghani's government voiced frustration about what Kabul regards as Afghanistan being sidelined during talks between Taliban and U.S. negotiators, drawing a rebuke from Washington. The latest round of peace talks ended on Tuesday, with both U.S. and Taliban officials saying progress was made. Tensions have been building between Kabul and Washington over U.S. efforts to forge a peace pact with the Taliban that includes a U.S. troop withdrawal, something that Kabul fears could weaken its own negotiating position. (Reporting by Rod Nickel in Kabul and James Mackenzie in Islamabad, Editing by William Maclean) ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) The Latest on flooding in the Midwest (all times local): 5:15 p.m. As rivers and creeks in flooded eastern Nebraska and western Iowa crest Saturday, officials have begun looking downstream at likely flooding further south along the Missouri River. The Jefferson City News-Tribune reports Missouri Gov. Mike Parson met with emergency management team members Friday to review and update flood-response plans. The Missouri Highway Patrol is preparing additional equipment, and swift water rescue personnel are on standby. The Missouri National Guard also has temporarily relocated the 139th Airlift Wing's C-130s from Rosecrans Air National Guard Base in St. Joseph as a precaution. Some flooding of low-lying areas around the river in northwest Missouri had already been reported Saturday. The National Weather Service says the Missouri River at St. Joseph reached nearly 26 feet on Saturday, about a foot below what's considered major flooding at the northwest Missouri city. But it's expected to crest Wednesday or Thursday at 29.3 feet more than two feet above major flooding level. ___ 4:45 p.m. Officials in the Omaha, Nebraska, area have had enough of rubberneckers maneuvering around road barricades to get a closer look at flooding. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office has announced it will ticket anyone seen driving around barricades on closed roads in flooded areas of Valley and Waterloo, just west of Omaha. Sheriff's Capt. Wayne Hudson says a person who drove around a barricade Saturday morning trying to get a closer look found himself in trouble when his truck stalled in high water. Hudson says rescuers then had to divert efforts from others to help him. ___ 4:30 p.m. South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem and U.S. Sen. John Thune have surveyed flood damage in Sioux Falls. Mayor Paul TenHaken and other city leaders took Noem and Thune on a tour of Sioux Falls on Saturday. The city was drenched in heavy rains earlier in the week as a powerful storm battered the central U.S. Story continues Thune praised neighbors for helping others "get back up on their feet" and says that "speaks volumes to the caliber of people we have in South Dakota." TenHaken says cleanup continues and a few roads remain closed. The Argus Leader reports the mayor expects Sioux Falls' bike trail to be "closed for a while." On Friday, Noem signed an emergency declaration, allowing counties access to state funds to recover from the winter storms and flooding. ___ 4 p.m. A man rescued from his stalled and flooded vehicle in western Iowa has been flown to a hospital in Omaha, Nebraska. Omaha television station KETV reports the man called for help shortly before 7 a.m. Saturday and told emergency dispatchers he was stranded in a truck that was taking on water in Pacific Junction. Officials say it was almost an hour before rescue crews could reach him. He was flown to Nebraska Medicine around 8 a.m. His name and medical condition have not been released. Authorities urged people to stay off the roads near rivers and creeks and warned motorists not to drive onto water-covered roads. ___ 2:25 p.m. Some homes are flooding in northern Illinois as waters rise on the Pecatonica and Rock rivers. The National Weather Service on Saturday said record crests are possible along both rivers. Many rivers and creeks in the Midwest are at record levels after days of snow and rain. In Nebraska and Iowa, people are being told to evacuate some areas after floodwaters broke through or overtopped levees. Some roads have also been closed, including a section of Interstate 29 in Iowa. In Illinois, the (Freeport) Journal-Standard reports that the American Red Cross opened a shelter Friday night for those displaced by flooding in Rockford. Freeport resident Mary Martin says that within an hour of going to the store she couldn't get back in her driveway. She says "that's how fast the water was coming up" from the Pecatonica River. ___ 2 p.m. Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued in rural areas of Mills County in southwestern Iowa as the Missouri River overtopped levees there. Mills County Emergency Management officials issued the order Saturday, noting the river wasn't done rising. Residents in the evacuation area are required to leave as soon as possible but no later than 4 p.m. Saturday. An emergency shelter has been established north of the area at Salem United Methodist Church in Council Bluffs. ___ 1:30 p.m. Travel in western Iowa is still hampered by flooding, and officials there and in eastern Nebraska are urging people not to drive if they don't need to. The Iowa Department of Transportation's website says northbound Interstate 29 from the Missouri state line to about 40 miles (64 kilometers) north near the Pacific Junction exit remains closed due to flooding. Drivers on I-29 are being rerouted onto Interstate 35 in Kansas City, Missouri, north to Des Moines, Iowa, then over I-80 back to I-29 at Council Bluffs. The detour takes drivers almost 140 miles (225 kilometers) out of the way. ___ 12:30 p.m. Nebraska authorities are issuing a mandatory evacuation for some neighborhoods after a levee along the Platte River in the city of Fremont. Officials ordered residents in certain areas to leave their homes as floodwater rushed in. Trinity Lutheran and Salem Lutheran churches in Fremont have been opened as shelters. Crews in parts of Nebraska are using boats to rescue people in floodwaters. The flooding happened after a deluge of recent rainwater and snowmelt was sent pouring over frozen ground, overwhelming creeks and rivers. Rescue efforts have been hampered by reports of levee breaches and washouts of bridges and roads, including part of Nebraska Highway 92 leading in and out of southwest Omaha. Authorities also confirmed that a bridge on that highway that crosses the Elkhorn River had been washed. ___ 11:35 a.m. Rescue and evacuation efforts have been continuing in many areas of eastern Nebraska, where a deluge of recent rainwater and snowmelt was sent pouring over frozen ground, overwhelming creeks and rivers. Efforts overnight and into Saturday were hampered by reports of levee breaches and washouts of bridges and roads, including part of Highway 92 leading in and out of southwest Omaha. Authorities also confirmed Saturday that a bridge on that highway that crosses the Elkhorn River had been washed out Saturday. The towns of North Bend and a large portion of Columbus were submerged Friday. Emergency workers used boats to evacuate residents. ___ 10:45 a.m. The National Weather Service says recent heavy rains paired with rising temperatures melting snow are causing flooding in the Midwest. Weather service meteorologist Brian Pierce in Davenport, Iowa, says moderate flooding Saturday along the Mississippi River is just the beginning. Pierce calls it the "dress rehearsal for the main event that's going to happen in early April." He says there's snow in Minnesota and Wisconsin that's yet to melt. Pierce says when it does there will be another round of flooding in those states that will then move south along the Mississippi River into Illinois and Iowa. The Mississippi River recorded moderate flooding Saturday from Rock Island, Illinois, south to Burlington, Iowa. Flooding is also occurring along other rivers and creeks in the Midwest. In eastern Nebraska, at least one person is dead and two others are missing. ___ 10:15 a.m. At least one person has died and at least two others are missing in floodwaters that have swamped towns and farmland, washed out roads and bridges and drowned livestock in Nebraska in the wake of a late-winter storm that overwhelmed rivers and creeks with rain and snowmelt. The family of 50-year-old James Wilke, of Columbus, Nebraska, says he was driving his tractor to rescue stranded motorists on a county road cut off by flooding Thursday when a bridge he was crossing collapsed. His cousin, Paul Wilke, told the Columbus Telegram that James Wilke's body was found downstream. Gass Haney Funeral Home confirmed James Wilke's death. Officials in other parts of Nebraska say a Norfolk man was seen on top of his flooded car late Thursday before being swept away in the water and another man is missing after being swept away by waters when a dam collapsed on the Niobrara River. Caracas (AFP) - Venezuela President Nicolas Maduro created a military unit on Friday charged with protecting basic installations and services such as electricity and water just over a week after the country was hit with a massive blackout. Maduro blamed that on a cyber attack directed by the United States but critics say the government was at fault for failing to maintain infrastructure. Speaking on television and radio, Maduro said the "Command for the Defense of Basic Strategic Services" would be tasked with ensuring "security, operability and maintenance." Its officers would be responsible for guaranteeing both "physical and cybernetic" security of infrastructure and maintenance of equipment. Maduro repeated his claim that the blackout, which lasted almost a week, was due to "successive attacks" against the country's major hydroelectric facility at Guri in Bolivar state, "directed" by US President Donald Trump's national security advisor John Bolton. The blackout hit on March 7 and paralyzed the entire country. The government announced on Tuesday that power was back on in practically the whole country but western regions still reported cuts. The socialist leader accused the opposition of concocting a plan "to accompany the blackout with general violence," claiming it was neutralized. Opposition leader Juan Guaido launched a challenge to Maduro's leadership in January by declaring himself acting president. He has since been recognized by more than 50 countries, led by the US. He said the blackout was caused by burning vegetation that damaged equipment. Maduro accused him of "sabotage," although experts doubt that version of events. Venezuela has been in recession for more than four years and is suffering from an economic crisis. An estimated 2.7 million people have left the country as poverty soared leaving shortages of food and medicines. Welcome Guest! You Are Here: It is not uncommon to see companies perform well in the years after insiders buy shares. Unfortunately, there are also plenty of examples of share prices declining precipitously after insiders have sold shares. So well take a look at whether insiders have been buying or selling shares in Pacific Bauxite Limited (ASX:PBX). What Is Insider Selling? Most investors know that it is quite permissible for company leaders, such as directors of the board, to buy and sell stock on the market. However, rules govern insider transactions, and certain disclosures are required. We would never suggest that investors should base their decisions solely on what the directors of a company have been doing. But logic dictates you should pay some attention to whether insiders are buying or selling shares. As Peter Lynch said, insiders might sell their shares for any number of reasons, but they buy them for only one: they think the price will rise. View our latest analysis for Pacific Bauxite Pacific Bauxite Insider Transactions Over The Last Year Over the last year, we can see that the biggest insider purchase was by Non-Executive Chairman Peter Lewis for AU$119k worth of shares, at about AU$0.029 per share. That means that even when the share price was higher, an insider wanted to purchase shares. While their view may have changed since the purchase was made, this does at least suggest they have had confidence in the companys future. Its not at all bad to see insiders buy shares at or above current prices. Peter Lewis was the only individual insider to buy over the year. You can see the insider transactions (by individuals) over the last year depicted in the chart below. If you click on the chart, you can see all the individual transactions, including the share price, individual, and the date! ASX:PBX Recent Insider Trading, March 16th 2019 If you like to buy stocks alongside management, then you might just love this free list of companies. (Hint: insiders have been buying them). Story continues Insider Ownership Many investors like to check how much of a company is owned by insiders. A high insider ownership often makes company leadership more mindful of shareholder interests. Pacific Bauxite insiders own about AU$1.3m worth of shares. That equates to 21% of the company. While this is a strong but not outstanding level of insider ownership, its enough to indicate some alignment between management and smaller shareholders. So What Does This Data Suggest About Pacific Bauxite Insiders? There havent been any insider transactions in the last three months that doesnt mean much. However, our analysis of transactions over the last year is heartening. Overall we dont see anything to make us think Pacific Bauxite insiders are doubting the company, and they do own shares. I like to dive deeper into how a company has performed in the past. You can access this interactive graph of past earnings, revenue and cash flow for free . If you would prefer to check out another company one with potentially superior financials then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. SYDNEY (AP) -- The gunman behind at least one of the mosque shootings in New Zealand that left 49 people dead on Friday tried to make a few things clear in the manifesto he left behind: He is a 28-year-old Australian white nationalist who hates immigrants. He was angry about attacks in Europe that were perpetrated by Muslims. He wanted revenge, and he wanted to create fear. He also, quite clearly, wanted attention. Though he claimed not to covet fame, the gunman who authorities identified as Brenton Harrison Tarrant left behind a 74-page document posted on social media under his name in which he said he hoped to survive the attack to better spread his views in the media. He also livestreamed to the world in graphic detail his assault on the worshippers at Christchurch's Al Noor Mosque. That rampage killed at least 41 people, while an attack on a second mosque in the city not long after killed several more. Police did not say whether the same person was responsible for both shootings. Tarrant appeared briefly in court on Saturday morning amid tight security and showed no emotion as the judge read the charge against him. While his manifesto and video were an obvious and contemptuous ploy for infamy, they do contain important clues for a public trying to understand why anyone would target dozens of innocent people who were simply spending an afternoon engaged in prayer. There could be no more perplexing a setting for a mass slaughter than New Zealand, a nation so placid and so isolated from the mass shootings that plague the U.S. that police officers rarely carry guns. Yet the gunman himself highlighted New Zealand's remoteness as a reason he chose it. He wrote that an attack in New Zealand would show that no place on earth was safe and that even a country as far away as New Zealand is subject to mass immigration. He said he grew up in a working-class Australian family, had a typical childhood and was a poor student. Tarrant's relatives in the Australian town of Grafton contacted police after learning of the shooting and were helping with the investigation, local authorities said. Tarrant has spent little time in Australia in the past four years and only had minor traffic infractions on his record. Story continues A woman who said she was a colleague of his when he worked as a personal trainer in Grafton said she was shocked by the allegations against him. "I can't ... believe that somebody I've probably had daily dealings with and had shared conversations and interacted with would be able of something to this extreme," Tracey Gray told the Australian Broadcasting Corp. The rambling manifesto is filled with confusing and seemingly contradictory assertions about his beliefs. Beyond his white nationalistic views, he claimed to be an environmentalist and said he is a fascist who believes China is the nation that most aligns with his political and social values. He said he has contempt for the wealthiest 1 percent. And he singled out American conservative commentator Candace Owens as the person who had influenced him the most, while saying "the extreme actions she calls for are too much, even for my tastes." In a tweet, Owens responded by saying that if the media portrayed her as the inspiration for the attack, it had better hire lawyers. The manifesto also included a single reference to President Donald Trump in which the author asked and answered the question of whether he was a Trump supporter: "As a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose? Sure. As a policy maker and leader? Dear god no." Throughout the manifesto, the theme he returns to most often is conflict between people of European descent and Muslims, often framing it in terms of the Crusades. Among his hate-filled statements is a claim that he was motivated toward violence by an episode that occurred in 2017 while he was touring through Western Europe. That was when an Uzbek man drove a truck into a crowd of people in Stockholm, killing five. He said his desire for violence grew when he arrived in France, where he said he was offended by the sight of immigrants in the cities and towns he visited. Three months ago, he said, he started planning to target Christchurch. He said he has donated to many nationalist groups, but claimed not to be a direct member of any organization. However, he admitted contacts with an anti-immigration group called the reborn Knights Templar and said he got the approval of Anders Breivik for the attack, a claim that has not been verified. Breivik is a right-wing Norwegian extremist who killed 77 people in Oslo and a nearby island in 2011. Breivik's lawyer Oeystein Storrvik told Norway's VG newspaper that his client, who is in prison, has "very limited contacts with the surrounding world, so it seems very unlikely that he has had contact" with the New Zealand gunman. The gunman rambled on about the supposed aims for the attack, which included reducing immigration by intimidating immigrants and driving a wedge between NATO and the Turkish people. He also said he hoped to further polarize and destabilize the West, and spark a civil war in the United States that would ultimately result in a separation of races. The attack has had the opposite impact, with condemnation of the bloodshed pouring in from all quarters of the globe, and calls for unity against hatred and violence. The gunman used various hate symbols associated with the Nazis and white supremacy. For instance, the number 14 is seen on his rifle, a possible reference to the "14 Words," a white supremacist slogan attributed in part to Adolf Hitler's "Mein Kampf," according to the Southern Poverty Law Center. He also used the symbol of the Schwarze Sonne, or black sun, which "has become synonymous with myriad far-right groups who traffic in neo-Nazi," according to the center. His victims, he wrote, were chosen because he saw them as invaders who would replace the white race. He predicted he would feel no remorse for their deaths. And in the video he livestreamed of his shooting, no remorse can be seen or heard as he sprays terrified worshippers with bullets again and again, sometimes firing at people he has already cut down. The gunman a licensed gun owner who bought the five guns used in the shootings legally left a scene of carnage that shocked the nation, and the world. It was, in the words of New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern "one of New Zealand's darkest days." (Reuters) - A deadly mass shooting at two mosques in New Zealand during Friday prayers has horrified residents of the South Pacific nation known for its low levels of gun violence and a reputation for tolerance and safety. Forty nine people were killed and more than 20 seriously wounded in the attacks in Christchurch, New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush said. Video footage widely circulated on social media, apparently taken by a gunman and posted online live as the attack unfolded, showed him driving to one mosque, entering it and shooting randomly at people inside. "It is clear that this can now only be described as a terrorist attack," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said, adding it marked one of New Zealand's darkest days. "Many of those who would have been affected by this shooting may be migrants to New Zealand. They may even be refugees here. They have chosen to make New Zealand their home and it is their home," she said. Online discussion site 8chan, known for a wide range of content including hate speech, carried an anonymous post that linked to the gunman's online live footage of the attack on one of the two mosques and a "manifesto" denouncing immigration. The manifesto said New Zealand was not originally chosen for the attack, but was identified as a "target rich of an environment as anywhere else in the West". An attack in New Zealand would show "that nowhere in the world was safe, the invaders were in all of our lands, even in the remotest areas of the world and that there was nowhere left to go that was safe and free from mass immigration," the manifesto read. Reuters was unable to confirm the authenticity of the manifesto. Paul Buchanan, a former intelligence and defense policy analyst now with consultancy 36th Parallel Assessments, said the threat from neo-Nazi groups in New Zealand was well-known. "Christchurch has a very active white supremacist community, a community that has attacked refugees and people of color on multiple occasions over the last 20 years," he told Radio New Zealand. "It shows we don't live in a benign environment in this day and age, we've been infected with the virus of extremism. The thing is it came from white supremacists, not from the Islamic community that was the target today." Muslims account for just over 1 percent of New Zealand's population, a 2013 census showed, with more than three-quarters born overseas. A 2011 study by Victoria University of Wellington found migrants from some Muslim majority countries were viewed less favorably than migrants from Britain and elsewhere. Media discourse suggested many New Zealanders may be uncertain about, if not unreceptive to, Muslim immigrants, the study said. In the wake of the attack, there was an outpouring of sympathy and disbelief. "I'm just heartbroken. In fact I'm sitting here crying," Muslim Association of Marlborough chairman Zayd Blissett told the Stuff website. "This is New Zealand. This can't happen here." New Zealand has experienced several mass shootings in recent decades, including when a lone gunman killed 13 people in the small South Island town of Aramoana in 1990 following a dispute with neighbors. The gunman was shot and killed by police, and gun licensing laws were strengthened to include tight restrictions on military style semi-automatic firearms. According to gun control advocacy group GunPolicy.org, hosted by the University of Sydney, New Zealand's population of almost 5 million has around 1.2 million guns in private hands. In the decade to 2013, the most recent figures, gun homicides in the country ranged from three to 12 deaths per year. Ardern said New Zealand was a not a target because it was a safe harbor for those who hate, condoned racism, or because it was an enclave for extremism. "We were chosen for the very fact we are none of these things, because we represent diversity, kindness, compassion, a home for those who share our values, refuge for those who need it," she told reporters. "And those values, I assure, will not and cannot be shaken by this attack." (Reporting by Lincoln Feast in SYDNEY; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan) By David Brunnstrom and Hyonhee Shin WASHINGTON/SEOUL (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump is open to additional talks with Pyongyang over denuclearization, his national security adviser said on Thursday, despite reports that North Korea is reactivating parts of its missile program. New activity has been detected at a factory that produced North Korea's first intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) capable of reaching the United States, South Korea's JoongAng Ilbo and Donga Ilbo newspapers reported, citing lawmakers briefed by the National Intelligence Service. This week, two U.S. think tanks and Seoul's spy agency said North Korea was rebuilding its Sohae rocket launch site, prompting Trump to say he would be "very, very disappointed" in North Korea leader Kim Jong Un if it were true. The think tanks said on Thursday they believed the launch site was operational again. Asked on Thursday if he was disappointed about recent North Korean activity, Trump told reporters: Its disappointing, while adding without elaborating: Well see. Well let you know in about a year. The reports of North Korean activity raise more questions about the future of the dialogue Trump has pursued with Kim after a second summit between them broke down in Vietnam last week.White House national security adviser John Bolton, a hard-liner who has argued for a tough approach to North Korea in the past, said Trump was still open to more talks with the country. "The president's obviously open to talking again. We'll see when that might be scheduled or how it might work out," he told Fox News, adding that it was too soon to make a determination on the reports of the North Korean activities. "We're going to study the situation carefully. As the president said, it would be very, very disappointing if they were taking this direction." The Feb. 27-28 Vietnam summit collapsed over differences on how far North Korea was willing to limit its nuclear program and the degree of U.S. willingness to ease economic sanctions. Trump, eager for a big foreign policy win on North Korea that has eluded his predecessors for decades, has repeatedly stressed his good relationship with Kim. He went as far late last year as saying they "fell in love," but the bonhomie has failed so far to bridge the wide gap between the two sides. "NO COMMITMENT YET" U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Monday he was hopeful he would send a delegation to North Korea for more talks in the next couple of weeks, but that he had received "no commitment yet." A senior State Department official told reporters on Thursday Washington was keen to resume talks as soon as possible, but North Korea's negotiators needed to be given more latitude than they were ahead of the summit. He said no one in the U.S. administration advocated an incremental approach North Korea has been seeking and the condition for its integration into the global economy, a transformed relationship with the United States and a permanent peace regime, was complete denuclearization. "Fundamentally, where we really need to see the progress, and we need to see it soon, is on meaningful and verifiable steps on denuclearization. That's our goal and that's how we see these negotiations picking up momentum." The official, who did not want to be identified, said the U.S. side still saw North Korea's complete denuclearization as achievable within Trump's current term, which ends in January 2021. While the official said he would "not necessarily share the conclusion" that the Sohae site was operational again, any use of it would be seen as "backsliding" on commitments to Trump. "We are watching in real-time developments at Sohae and we will definitely be seeking clarification on the purposes of that," he said. MISSILE FACTORY South Korean spy chief Suh Hoon told lawmakers in Seoul this week that movement of cargo vehicles was spotted recently around a North Korean ICBM factory at Sanumdong, the JoongAng Ilbo reported. The paper also quoted Suh as saying North Korea had continued to run its uranium enrichment facility at the main Yongbyon nuclear complex after a first summit between Trump and Kim last June in Singapore. The Sanumdong factory produced the Hwasong-15 ICBM, which can fly more than 13,000 km (8,080 miles). After a test flight in 2017, North Korea declared the completion of its "state nuclear force" before pursuing talks with South Korea and the United States last year. South Korea's presidential office and defense ministry declined to confirm the Sanumdong reports and the U.S. State Department said it could not comment on intelligence matters. Separately, Washington's 38 North and Center for Strategic and International Studies think tanks reported on Thursday that North Korea's Sohae Satellite Launching Station, which Kim pledged in Singapore to dismantle, appeared to be operational again after rebuilding work that began days before the Hanoi summit. "The rebuilding activities at Sohae demonstrate how quickly North Korea can easily render reversible any steps taken toward scrapping its Weapons of Mass Destruction program with little hesitation," CSIS said. It called the action "an affront" to Trumps diplomatic strategy that showed North Korean pique at his refusal to lift sanctions. SANCTIONS WARNING Some analysts see the work as aimed at pressing Washington to agree to a deal, rather than as a definite move to resume tests. A U.S. government source, who did not want to be identified, said North Korea's plan in rebuilding the site could have been to offer a demonstration of good faith by conspicuously stopping again if a summit pact was struck, while furnishing a sign of defiance or resolve if the meeting failed. 38 North said photos from Wednesday showed a rail-mounted transfer building used to move rockets at the site was complete, cranes had been removed from the launch pad and the transfer building moved to the end of the pad. "But we don't draw any conclusions from that besides they are restoring the facility," Joel Wit of 38 North told Reuters. "There is no evidence to suggest anything more than that." On Wednesday Bolton warned of new sanctions if North Korea did not scrap its weapons program. Despite his sanctions talk, there have been signs across Asia that the U.S. "maximum pressure" sanctions campaign against North Korea has sprung leaks. In a new breach, three South Korean companies were found to have brought in more than 13,000 tons of North Korean coal, worth 2.1 billion won ($2 million) since 2017, South Korea said. North Korean media have given conflicting signals on U.S. relations, while appearing to target Bolton as a spoiler. Its state television aired a 78-minute documentary late on Wednesday showing a cordial mood between Trump and Kim as the Hanoi summit ended, indicating Pyongyang was not about to walk away from negotiations, experts say. It also showed a stone-faced Bolton during a meeting in Hanoi, while Trump and other U.S. participants were all smiles. In a return to a more usual strident tone, the KCNA news agency criticized new small-scale military exercises that the United States and South Korea plan to hold instead of a large-scale spring exercise they have called off. It said the drills would be a "violent violation" of agreements with the United States and South Korea. (Reporting by Jeff Mason, David Brunnstrom and Steve Holland in Washington; additional reporting by Mark Hosenball, David Alexander and Tim Ahmann in Washington and Hyonhee Shin and Joyce Lee in Seoul; Editing by Clarence Fernandez, Alistair Bell and James Dalgleish) LONDON (Reuters) - The Northern Irish party that is crucial to Prime Minister Theresa May's hopes of getting her twice-defeated Brexit deal through parliament is likely to support it in a third vote next week, the Spectator magazine reported on Saturday. The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which has 10 lawmakers in parliament, is moving toward backing May's European Union divorce deal for the first time after receiving a promise that the government would put into law a requirement that there be no divergence between Northern Ireland and Britain, it said. A cabinet minister involved in the talks with the DUP told the Spectator the chances of the Northern Irish party backing the government's deal were around 60 percent. (Reporting by Andrew MacAskill; Editing by Alexander Smith) Attacks on two mosques in New Zealand which left at least 49 people dead on Friday have sparked horror, revulsion and dismay around the world. One of the gunmen believed to be an Australian extremist -- apparently livestreamed the deadly assault. "It is clear that this can now only be described as a terrorist attack," said Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, describing it as "one of New Zealand's darkest days." Here is a summary of the main international reactions so far. - Muslims face 'mass killing' - "With this attack, hostility towards Muslims that the world has been has been idly watching and even encouraging for some time, has gone beyond the boundaries of individual harassment to reach the level of mass killing," said Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. "If measures are not taken right away, news of other disasters will follow this one." - Cruel, cynical attack - "An attack against peaceful people gathering for prayer is shocking in its cruelty and cynicism," Russian President Vladimir Putin said. "I hope that those involved will be severely punished," he said in a message to Arden. - 'Harrowing news' - "Harrowing news from New Zealand overnight" said EU Council president Donald Tusk. "The brutal attack... will never diminish the tolerance and decency that New Zealand is famous for." - 'Sickening act of violence' - British Prime Minister Theresa May offered deepest condolences "after the horrifying terrorist attack in Christchurch. My thoughts are with all of those affected by this sickening act of violence." - Brutal crimes - German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said his country was "profoundly affected by the brutal crimes in Christchurch". - 'Fanatics want to destroy society' - Spanish Premier Pedro Sanchez said his thoughts were with the victims, families and government of New Zealand after attacks by "fanatics and extremists who want to destroy our societies". A one-time gym trainer from rural Australia who became steeped in neo-fascist ideology during travels in Europe, Brenton Tarrant described himself as an "ordinary white man" -- until he became anything but ordinary. The gunman behind the massacre of 49 people in two New Zealand mosques flashed a white power sign during a brief court appearance Saturday, but he was not on any terrorist watch-list and appeared to have no criminal history. Tarrant, 28, grew up in the small town of Grafton in northern New South Wales, where he graduated high school before earning some fitness qualifications and going on to find work at a local gym in 2009. The gym's owner, Tracey Gray, described him as a hard-working trainer but said he appeared to have been changed by his travels in Europe and Asia -- which social media posts suggested included trips as far afield as Pakistan and North Korea. "I think something must have changed in him during the years he spent travelling overseas," Gray told national broadcaster ABC. "Somewhere along the lines, experiences or a group have got a hold of him," she said. Gray's speculation was backed up by a rambling, hate-filled, manifesto Tarrant posted to social media ahead of the Christchurch killings. In the 74-page screed, he says he first began considering an attack in April and May of 2017 while travelling in France and elsewhere in Western Europe. He mentions being shocked at the "invasion" of French cities by immigrants and his "despair" at the French presidential vote that year which saw pro-European centrist Emmanuel Macron defeat his far-right opponent Marine Le Pen. In a brief biographical sketch included in his manifesto, Tarrant describes himself as "just a ordinary white man... born in Australia to a working class, low income family". His childhood was "regular" and, he insisted, issue-free. He "barely" achieved a passing grade in school and had no interest in pursuing higher education. Story continues According to media reports, his father died of cancer in 2010 and gym owner Gray said she believed he had a mother and sister still living in Grafton. Tarrant left the gym in 2011 and his travels, he says, were funded by money he made investing in Bitconnect -- an open source cryptocurrency that collapsed in early 2018 amid charges it was a glorified Ponzi scheme. Two modified semi-automatic weapons -- reportedly AR-15s -- two shotguns and a lever-action gun were used in Friday's deadly rampage, and photos of the weaponry with distinctive writing on them were posted on social media days before. Scrawled in English and several Eastern European languages were the names of numerous historical military figures -- many of them Europeans involved in fighting the Ottoman forces in the 15th and 16th centuries. A few took part in the Crusades, centuries earlier. Ankara on Friday said it was investigating Tarrant's multiple visits to Turkey, and who he might have met while he was there. The Bulgarian government has also said it was looking into Tarrant, who apparently visited the country late last year, as well as having earlier travelled to other parts of the Balkans -- including Serbia, Croatia, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Tarrant's manifesto said he took "inspiration" from other right-wing extremists including racist Norwegian killer Anders Behring Breivik, who murdered 77 people in Norway in 2011 motivated by his hatred of multiculturalism. Tarrant described Oswald Mosley, a notorious British fascist leader and anti-Semite from the 1930s, as "the person from history closest to my own beliefs". US online retailer Overstocks subsidiary, Medici Ventures, has acquired a 5.1% stake in blockchain banking platform Bankorus. The addition of Bankorus to our portfolio of companies will further our work in building the foundation of a blockchain-based technology stack for society, says Jonathan Johnson, President at Medici Ventures. Bankorus has built a revolutionary blockchain banking platform that dovetails nicely with our goals of eliminating middlemen, democratising capital, and rehumanising commerce by helping individuals access and control their own digital assets. Medici Ventures has invested in a number of blockchain projects, further info on which can be found here. Late last year, the Wall Street Journal reported that Patrick Byrne, Founder and CEO of Overstock, was looking to sell the retail arm of his company and devote his time to the much hyped technology. Medici Ventures lost $22 million in 2017, while in the first nine months of 2018 it burnt through $39 million. Overstock also racked up a net loss of $163 million in the first three quarters of last year. But Byrne insisted he didnt care whether tZero [one of the ventures backed by Medici] is losing $2 million a month. We think weve got cold fusion on the blockchain side. The post Overstock blockchain subsidiary buys into Bankorus appeared first on Coin Rivet. The Philippines was officially out of the International Criminal Court on Sunday, though the beleaguered tribunal has pledged to pursue its examination of alleged illegal killings in the government's drug war. Under court rules, Manila's withdrawal took force a year after it told the United Nations that it was quitting the world's only permanent war crimes tribunal, the second nation to do so. "The Secretary-General... informed all concerned states that the withdrawal will take effect for the Philippines on 17 March," UN spokesperson Eri Kaneko told AFP on Friday. The departure of the Philippines follows the court being hit in recent years by high-profile acquittals and moves by several nations to drop out. Manila moved to quit after the body launched a preliminary examination in 2018 into President Rodrigo Duterte's drug crackdown that has killed thousands and drawn international censure. However, the president's spokesman said Sunday the nation never legally joined the treaty that underpins the court, a reference to an argument that the Philippines did not complete all the steps to formalise its adoption. "Our position on the matter remains clear, unequivocal and inflexible: The Philippines never became a state party to the Rome Statute which created the ICC," spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a statement. "As far as we are concerned, this tribunal is non-existent and its actions a futile exercise," he added. Duterte's drug war is his signature policy initiative and he defends it fiercely, especially from international critics like Western leaders and institutions which he says do not care about his country. However, court officials have said the preliminary probe launched by ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda in February 2018 into possible crimes against humanity in the drug war would continue. Under the court's rules, any matter under consideration before a nation leaves the court is still under its jurisdiction. Story continues - String of setbacks - Duterte has made it clear his government will not cooperate with the ICC in any way. The court "can never acquire jurisdiction over my person, not in a million years," he said in a speech on Wednesday. Rights group Amnesty International said on Sunday the withdrawal should prompt the UN Human Rights Council to probe the killings. "Filipinos bravely challenging the 'war on drugs' or seeking justice for their loved ones need international support to help them end this climate of fear, violence and impunity," said Amnesty International regional director Nicholas Bequelin. The ICC examination, which is one step before a full-blown probe, zeroes in on allegations the government has been involved in illegal killings as part of the crackdown Duterte launched in mid-2016. Police say they have killed 5,176 users or pushers who resisted arrest, but rights groups say the actual number of dead is at least triple that number. Critics have alleged the crackdown amounts to a war on the poor that feeds an undercurrent of impunity and lawlessness in the nation of 106 million. The Philippines' move to exit follows a string of setbacks for the ICC, including the January acquittal of former Ivory Coast leader Laurent Gbagbo and the June 2018 not guilty verdict for former DR Congo vice-president Jean-Pierre Bemba. Burundi in 2017 became the first ever nation to leave the court, which was founded in 2002. In a wave of unprecedented defections, other African nations -- Zambia, South Africa, Kenya and Gambia -- have also made moves to quit or expressed interest in withdrawing as they accused the court of being biased against Africans. However, the court this month got a boost when Malaysia officially joined, making it one of just a handful of Asian members. burs/jm/amz Relatives react at the scene where the Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 Max 8 crashed shortly after takeoff on Sunday killing all 157 on board, near Bishoftu, south of Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia, March 13, 2019. (Photo: Mulugeta Ayene/AP) Flight recorders from a doomed Ethiopian Airlines flight arrived in France for analysis Thursday as frustrated relatives of the 157 people killed stormed out of a meeting with airline officials in Addis Ababa. Sunday's crash was the second fatal flight for a Boeing 737 Max 8 in less than six months. More than 40 countries, including the U.S., have now grounded the planes or refused to let them into their airspace. After holding out for several days, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration issued an emergency order grounding the planes Wednesday, saying they had new satellite data and evidence that showed the movements of the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 were similar to those of Lion Air Flight 610. That flight crashed into the Java Sea off Indonesia in October, killing 189 people. Officials at Lion Air have said sensors on their plane produced erroneous information on its last four flights, triggering an automatic nose-down command that the pilots were unable to overcome on its final voyage. Ethiopian Airlines CEO Tewolde Gebremariam said its pilots had received special training on how to deal with that problem. "In addition to the basic trainings given for 737 aircraft types, an additional training was given for the Max version," Tewolde said. "After the Lion Air crash, questions were raised, so Boeing sent further instructions that it said pilots should know." Two men carry suitcases containing the flight recorders from the Ethiopian jet, into the French air accident investigation authority, March 14, 2019 Le Bourget, north of Paris. (Photo: Christophe Ena/AP) Tewolde said he is confident the investigation will reveal that the crash is not related to the safety record of Ethiopian Airlines, widely seen as the best-managed in Africa. Firm answers about what caused the crash could take months. The French air accident investigation authority, known by its French acronym BEA, said Thursday it will handle the analysis of the flight recorders, often referred to as a plane's black boxes, retrieved from the crash site. The BEA has experience with global air crashes, and its expertise is often sought whenever an Airbus plane crashes because the manufacturer is based in France. A BEA official told The Associated Press that the recorders have already arrived in France but gave no time frame on how long the analysis could take. Story continues In Addis Ababa, about 200 angry family members of crash victims left a briefing with Ethiopian Airlines officials, saying that the carrier has not given them adequate information. Officials said they have opened a call-in center that is open 18 hours a day to respond to questions, but family members said they are not getting the answers they need. People from 35 countries died. At the crash scene in Hejere, about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Addis Ababa, growing numbers of family members arrived, some wailing or beating their chests as a bulldozer navigated piles of debris. Blue plastic sheeting covered the wreckage of the plane. (AP) Wreckage lies at the scene where the Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 Max 8 crashed shortly after takeoff on Sunday killing all 157 on board, near Bishoftu, or Debre Zeit, south of Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia, March 12, 2019. (Photo: Mulugeta Ayene/AP) See more news-related photo galleries and follow us on Yahoo News Photo Twitter and Tumblr. See more photos below: A family member reacts at the scene where the Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 Max 8 plane crashed shortly after takeoff on Sunday killing all 157 on board, near Bishoftu, south of Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia, March 13, 2019. (Photo: Mulugeta Ayene/AP) Ethiopian relatives of crash victims mourn and grieve at the scene where the Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 Max 8 crashed shortly after takeoff on Sunday killing all 157 on board, near Bishoftu, south-east of Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia Thursday, March 14, 2019. (Photo: Mulugeta Ayene/AP) Ethiopian relatives of crash victims mourn at the scene where the Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 Max 8 crashed shortly after takeoff on Sunday killing all 157 on board, near Bishoftu, south-east of Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia, March 14, 2019. (Photo: Mulugeta Ayene/AP) An Ethiopian relative of a crash victim throws dirt in her own face after realising that there is nothing physical left of her loved one, as she mourns at the scene where the Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 Max 8 crashed shortly after takeoff on Sunday killing all 157 on board, near Bishoftu, south-east of Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia, March 14, 2019. (Photo: Mulugeta Ayene/AP) Foreign investigators examine wreckage at the scene where the Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 Max 8 crashed shortly after takeoff on Sunday killing all 157 on board, near Bishoftu, or Debre Zeit, south of Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia March 12, 2019. (Photo: Mulugeta Ayene/AP) Rescuers work at the scene of an Ethiopian Airlines flight crash near Bishoftu, or Debre Zeit, south of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, March 11, 2019. (Photo: Mulugeta Ayene/AP) A boarding pass is seen at the scene of the Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET 302 plane crash, near the town of Bishoftu, southeast of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia March 11, 2019. (Photo: Tiksa Negeri/Reuters) Rescuers work at the scene of an Ethiopian Airlines flight crash near Bishoftu, or Debre Zeit, south of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, March 11, 2019. (Photo: Mulugeta Ayene/AP) Flowers are seen at the scene of the Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET 302 plane crash, near the town of Bishoftu, southeast of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia March 11, 2019. (Photo: Tiksa Negeri/Reuters) Clothing lies on the ground at the crash scene of an Ethiopian Airlines flight crash near Bishoftu, or Debre Zeit, south of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Monday, March 11, 2019. (Photo: Mulugeta Ayene/AP) Ethiopian Airlines flight ET 302 to Nairobi crashed early on Sunday near the town of Bishoftu, 62 kilometers southeast of the capital Addis Ababa, killing all 157 people aboard. (Graphic: Reuters) Search workers carry a tyre at the scene of the Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET 302 plane crash, near the town of Bishoftu, southeast of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia March 11, 2019. (Photo: Tiksa Negeri/Reuters) Wreckage is seen at the scene of the Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET 302 plane crash, near the town of Bishoftu, southeast of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia March 11, 2019. (Photo: Tiksa Negeri/Reuters) A component from a computer is seen behind a police cordon at the scene of the Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET 302 plane crash, near the town of Bishoftu, southeast of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia March 11, 2019. (Photo: Tiksa Negeri/Reuters) Relatives of the victims involved in a plane crash wait for information at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi, Kenya, March 10, 2019. (Photo: Khalil Senosi/AP) In this image taken from video, rescuers search through wreckage at the scene of an Ethiopian Airlines flight that crashed shortly after takeoff at Hejere near Bishoftu, or Debre Zeit, some 50 kilometers (31 miles) south of Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia, March 10, 2019. (Photo: Yidnek Kirubel/AP) Rescuers remove body bags from the scene of an Ethiopian Airlines flight that crashed shortly after takeoff at Hejere near Bishoftu, or Debre Zeit, some 50 kilometers (31 miles) south of Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia, March 10, 2019. (Photo: AP) Family members of the victims involved in a plane crash react at Addis Ababa international airport, March 10, 2019. (Photo: Mulugeta Ayene/AP) Wreckage lies at the scene of an Ethiopian Airlines flight that crashed shortly after takeoff at Hejere near Bishoftu, or Debre Zeit, some 50 kilometers (31 miles) south of Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia, March 10, 2019. (Photo: AP) A family member of a victim involved in a plane crash talks on a mobile phone at Addis Ababa international airport, March 10, 2019. (Photo: Mulugeta Ayene/AP) Workers gather at the scene of an Ethiopian Airlines flight crash near Bishoftu, or Debre Zeit, south of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, March 11, 2019. (Photo: Mulugeta Ayene/AP) Relatives of the victims involved in a plane crash board a bus at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi, Kenya, March 10, 2019, to travel to a hotel to receive more information. (Photo: Khalil Senosi/AP) A piece of the wreckage of an Ethiopian Airlines flight that crashed shortly after takeoff lies at the scene at Hejere near Bishoftu, or Debre Zeit, some 50 kilometers (31 miles) south of Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia, March 10, 2019. (Photo: Yidnek Kirubel/AP) Rescuers search at the scene of an Ethiopian Airlines flight that crashed shortly after takeoff at the scene at Hejere near Bishoftu, or Debre Zeit, some 50 kilometers (31 miles) south of Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia, March 10, 2019. (Photo: Yidnek Kirubel/AP) Airplane parts lie on the ground at the scene of an Ethiopian Airlines flight crash near Bishoftu, or Debre Zeit, south of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, March 11, 2019. (Photo: Mulugeta Ayene/AP) Members of the Ethiopian community take part in a special prayer for the victims of the Ethiopian Airlines flight ET302 crash, at the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church of Canada Saint Mary Cathedral in Toronto, March 10, 2019. (Photo: Christopher Katsarov/The Canadian Press via AP) A passenger passport lies on the ground at the scene of an Ethiopian Airlines flight crash near Bishoftu, or Debre Zeit, south of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, March 11, 2019. (Photo: Mulugeta Ayene/AP) _____ Read more from Yahoo News: WARSAW, Poland (AP) Poland's Catholic Church authorities revealed Thursday they have recorded cases of 382 clergymen who have abused 625 victims under the age of 18 since 1990. The figure includes 198 priests and friars who abused minors under 15 years old and 184 clergy who abused victims between 15 and 18, according to Wojciech Sadlon, head of the church's Institute of Statistics. In both confirmed and unconfirmed cases, there were 345 victims under age 15 and 280 victims between 15 to 18. The crimes occurred from 1990 through June of last year, Sadlon told a news conference. More than 58 percent of the victims were male. Archbishop Wojciech Polak, the primate of Poland, expressed "pain, shame and the sense of guilt that such situations took place." Authorities said in 25 percent of the cases before church courts, the clergymen were defrocked and in 52 percent of the cases they had their duties limited and were banned from working with children. Acquittals amounted to 10 percent of the cases and 13 percent of the cases were discontinued. Church leaders said the cases call for a change in the way that vocational seminaries educate clergymen. The figures were released following a three-day session of Poland's Episcopate in Warsaw that discussed abuse and ways of protecting children. The news came just weeks after Pope Francis convened church leaders from around the world to the Vatican, where they discussed how to stop sex abuse by clergy. Church leaders in predominantly Catholic Poland have previously admitted they knew that some priests had abused minors in Poland but did not reveal how many. A private foundation supporting victims of abuse has given Francis a list of more than 90 court verdicts concerning priests in Poland and over 300 cases of alleged abuse. The "Have No Fear" foundation on Thursday criticized the Episcopate's revelation, saying it lacked words of apology or any mention about compensation for victims. Story continues Despite the millions in compensation paid out to victims by Catholic authorities in other countries, Polish church leaders argue that the church as an institution has no obligation to compensate victims because the crimes were committed by individual persons. Last month, a statue of a prominent Solidarity-era priest was torn down at night in the northern city of Gdansk amid allegations that the late Rev. Henryk Jankowski, respected for his pro-democracy activity in the 1980s, abused minors. It was later officially removed from the Rev. Jankowski Square, which was also renamed. Poland's Catholic church has the support of the country's conservative government and enjoys special respect in the nation due to its role in preserving Poland's national identity during World War II and under decades of communist rule. WASHINGTON (AP) One of the most prominent prosecutors working for special counsel Robert Mueller is leaving the team soon, a likely indication that the investigation is close to wrapping up. More than any other member of Mueller's team, Andrew Weissmann has been a target of President Donald Trump's outrage and singled out for attacks, including by Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani, as an overly aggressive prosecutor. Mueller spokesman Peter Carr said in a statement Thursday that Weissmann would be concluding his work with the special counsel's office "in the near future." He did not give a date, but the looming departure is not surprising given that the principal case Weissmann has worked on the prosecution of former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort came to a close Wednesday with a sentencing in federal court in Washington. Several other prosecutors detailed to Mueller's team have also left in recent months, suggesting the investigation is winding down and that Mueller may soon turn in a report to Attorney General William Barr. In addition, David Archey, the senior FBI official involved in the Mueller investigation, was named to a new job this month as the top agent in the FBI's field office in Richmond, Virginia. Weissmann, who worked as an FBI general counsel under Mueller, most recently led the Justice Department's fraud section. He achieved prominence for his work as a prosecutor while investigating organized crime in New York City and for his leadership of a task force that investigated the Enron scandal. He has developed a reputation as an aggressive and experienced prosecutor skilled in developing cooperating witnesses. Since Weissmann joined Mueller's team in 2017, Trump has occasionally singled him out for criticism, using his name as a kind of shorthand for what he maintains is an illegitimate effort to bring him down. Republicans eager to paint the Mueller team as biased against Trump have seized on a January 2017 email Weissmann wrote complimenting former acting Attorney General Sally Yates, an Obama administration holdover, for refusing to have the Justice Department defend the Trump administration's travel ban. Story continues Weissmann's expected departure was first reported by NPR, which said he would study and teach at New York University and work on public service projects. "Andrew has been involved with NYU Law in the past and we have been talking with him about returning to the Law School following his current commitments," said Michael Orey, a spokesman for the Law School. Weissmann was also part of the team that prosecuted Manafort's business associate, Rick Gates, who pleaded guilty last year and agreed to cooperate, and that investigated unregistered foreign lobbying efforts in Washington. ____ Follow Eric Tucker on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/etuckerAP Istanbul (AFP) - Hundreds of protesters held a symbolic funeral in Istanbul on Saturday to mourn the deaths of 49 people murdered in attacks on two New Zealand mosques. The right-wing extremist charged over the attacks in Christchurch apparently published a manifesto online that Turkish media said contained specific references to Turkey and ridding the famed Hagia Sophia in Istanbul of its minarets. On Saturday around 500 protesters gathered outside the Hagia Sophia, which is now a museum but was once a church before being turned into a mosque during the Ottoman empire. The crowds of mainly nationalist and Islamic groups unfurled banners that read "Muslims, stand tall!" and "Muslims, unite!" and conducted a short prayer service for the victims. Police stepped up security around the building, with dozens of officers flanking the demonstration, some on horse back and others carrying riot shields. "Everyone is aware of the rising Islamophobia all over the world; assailants find the courage to launch such attacks because of Muslims' timidity," said Faruk Hanedar, one of the demonstrators. "We are here to show Muslims are able to respond to them with a smart attitude," he added. Players observed a minute of silence for all the victims ahead of a football match Friday night between Istanbul giant Fenerbahce and Sivasspor. Football fans at Fenerbahce's stadium chanted "Allahu Akbar" (God is greatest). Australia-born 28-year-old Brenton Tarrant appeared in court Saturday and was charged with murder. The Friday attacks on worshippers are thought to be the worst act of terror against Muslims in the West and have sparked an outpouring of grief and horror across the globe. Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday condemned the murders, saying that hostility towards Islam was spreading in Western countries "like a cancer". "With this attack, hostility towards Islam, that the world has been idly watching and even encouraging for some time, has gone beyond individual harassment to reach the level of mass killing," Erdogan said. Hundreds of people gathered in Athens on Saturday in a rally against Islamophobia, in a protest called by activists that had been planned for several weeks. The death toll in the mosque shootings that shook New Zealand rose to 50 people on Saturday, with victims ranging in age from 2 years old to over 60, local media reports. Of the 50 injured, 36 remain in Christchurch hospital following the massacre. Two adults are considered in critical condition at the city's hospital and one child is at Starship children's hospital in Auckland, according to the New Zealand Herald. A 28-year-old Australian was the sole gunman who allegedly opened fire on two mosques during Friday prayers in the New Zealand city of 375,000, police said. Two other people, a man and a woman, who were arrested soon after the shootings were not linked to the shooter. Among the critically injured is a 4-year-old Alin Alsati who was gunned down alongside her father at the Al Noor mosque. Alin, who turns 5 next month, was shot up to three times during the melee, according to the New Zealand Herald. The girl was described as beautiful and kind-hearted by an unnamed friend of the family. Her father, Jordanian barber Wasseim Alsati, posted a video to Facebook from his hospital bed asking friends and family to "please pray for me and my daughter." In the 48-second clip, Aslati said that he was "really tired" after being shot three times. I am very sorry to miss your calls and text messages, I will not be able to answer anyone of you now, said Alsati. I am just posting this video to show you that I am fully OK. Among the victims was 14-year-old Sayyad Milne, according to his father, John Milne, who told the New Zealand Herald that his son was a "brave little soldier" who liked playing football. The high school student was at the mosque with his mother. "It's so hard... to see him just gunned down by someone who didn't care about anyone or anything," the father said to the New Zealand Herald. Haji Daoud Nabi, 71, also died in what his sons described to the New Zeland Herald as a "cowardly act." Story continues "It's outrageous to me. Forty-nine people got killed, kids and grown-ups shot in the back while praying," one of the son's said to the New Zeland Herald. Hamza Mustafa, 14, and his father, Khaled Mustafa, also lost their lives, according to a Facebook post made by Syrian Solidarity New Zealand. Another family member, Zaid Mustafa, 13, is in a stable condition in Christchurch hospital, "but he does not know that both his father and brother have been killed," the Facebook post said. The family moved to New Zealand from Syria last year, according to the Facebook page that shares news and promotes humanitarian efforts. A spokesman for the organization told the New Zealand Herald that Mustafa's wife and daughter, who were not at the mosque Friday, were in "total shock, devastation and horror" at the news. Alta Marie, the wife of Zulfirman Syah, said on Facebook that her husband used his body to shield their 2-year-old son Averroes during the shooting, "which caused him to receive most of the bullets and much more complex injuries than our son." She said Syah is in stable condition following "extensive exploratory and reconstructive surgery," and that her son sustained minor injuries. Another survivor told BBC News that his father took a bullet for him. "A (bullet) went past my face and it burned my face. It didn't even touch me, but it burned, so I could only feel for the people that got shot by them," Ali Adeeba told BBC News. "My father is in ICU. He's the one that actually took a bullet for me." Earlier, more than 200 members of the Muslim community met with hospital officials to discuss how the bodies will be identified and released this weekend, but many of them left saying they could not wait all night for information, Radio News Zealand reports. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern wore a black hijab when she and a contingent of local officials met Muslim leaders at the Canterbury Refugee Center and at Hagley College. For family members, "very much the focus on them was being able to access their loved ones," she said, according to the Daily Mail. "Front of mind for them, of course, is fulfilling their religious expectations and that is burial." Ardern told the grieving families she has many roles as prime minister, but on Saturday had three "incredibly important jobs." "One is to bring with me the message of love and support and grief of the people of New Zealand," she said. "The second message that I have is to ensure your safety your freedom to worship safely; your freedom to express your culture and religion." Across the country, meanwhile, New Zealanders reached out to Muslims in their communities the day after the mass shootings. New Zealanders everywhere volunteered acts of kindness. Some offered rides to the grocery store or volunteered to walk with their Muslim neighbors if they felt unsafe. In online forums, people discussed Muslim food restrictions as they prepared to drop off meals for those affected. The alleged gunman appeared in court under tight security Saturday. Shackled and wearing all-white prison garb, he showed no emotion when the judge read him one murder charge. At one point, he did appear to make a hand gesture forming an "OK" sign sometimes associated with white nationalists. The judge said it was reasonable to assume more such charges would follow. He was ordered to return to court April 5. The alleged shooter in the massacre sent a copy of his rambling, anti-immigrant manifesto to the country's prime minister and 69 others only minutes before he opened fire, the New Zealand Herald reports. The newspaper says Ardern's office confirms receiving the 74-page screed in which the suspected gunman attempted to explain his actions. It had been sent to the prime minister's generic email address, and not her personal address, according to the spokesman. "The mail was setting his reasons for doing it," a spokesman for Ardern told the newspaper. "He didn't say this is what I am about to do. There was no opportunity to stop it." It was quickly turned over to parliamentary security he said, according to the newspaper. The Herald reports that other politicians on the gunman's mailing list included National leader Simon Bridges and Parliament's Speaker Trevor Mallard. Some recipients lived abroad, the newspaper reported. Police Commissioner Mike Bush confirmed the gunman was involved in both shootings but stopped short of saying he was the sole shooter. Start the day smarter: Get USA TODAY's Daily Briefing in your inbox Ardern said he was a licensed gun owner who bought the five guns used in the crimes legally. I can tell you one thing right now, our gun laws will change, Ardern said. The attack was the deadliest in the nation's history since 1990, when David Gray killed 13 people before being shot and killed by police in the town of Aramoana. The prime minister also said she had spoken to President Donald Trump who offered his condolences and asked what the U.S. could do. "He asked what offer of support the United States could provide," Ardern said at a news conference afterward. "My message was: 'Sympathy and love for all Muslim communities.'" Before their phone conversation, Trump had responded to a question from reporters by saying he did not view white nationalism as a threat, adding: I think its a small group of people that have very, very serious problems, I guess. If you look what happened in New Zealand, perhaps thats the case. I dont know enough about it yetBut its certainly a terrible thing. Adern, when asked by reporters later if she agreed with his assessment, responded: "No." In his lengthy manifesto, the gunman said he was first pushed toward violence while touring Europe in 2017 after an Uzbek man drove a truck into a crowd of people in Stockholm, killing five people, including an 11-year-old Swedish girl. He said his desire for violence grew when he arrived in France, where he became enraged by the sight of immigrants in the cities and towns he visited. He said New Zealand, far from Europe, was not the original choice for attack, but described it as target rich of an environment as anywhere else in the West." The dossier, which was described by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison as a "work of hate," hailed Trump as "a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose." He said he was carrying out the attacks, "to directly reduce immigration rates to European lands by intimidating and physically removing the invaders themselves." By choosing Christchurch, he wrote, he would show that no place on earth was safe and that even a country as far away as New Zealand is subject to mass immigration. He said he settled on his target three months ago. Contributing: Mike James, Jane Onyanga-Omara; The Associated Press This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Death toll rises to 50 in New Zealand mosque shootings Zinedine Zidane's first match back in charge of Real Madrid went about as well as could be expected. (Associated Press) When Real Madrid announced Zinedine Zidanes return as manager at the beginning of the week, it was natural to get carried away envisioning a return to the trophies and triumph that earmarked the clubs recent past. In reality, it was going to play out the way it did on Saturday, at least to start. Zidane staffed his side with the veterans hes most comfortable with, and while it wasnt his nor the teams finest 90 minutes, they still produced a 2-0 win over Celta Vigo together at the Santiago Bernabeu. Celta is currently in the bottom three, so the fixture provided Zidane with a great opportunity to get off on the right foot. And he capitalized, thanks to goals from Isco and Gareth Bale. In the 62nd minute, Marco Asensio surged into the center of the pitch and played through Karim Benzema, whose cross was met by a hard-charging Isco to open the scoring: Fifteen minutes later, Marcelo made another run forward and found Bale at the top of the box, and the left-footer did well to finish with his right and double the lead: The impact of Isco, Bale and Marcelo is notable, because all three have fallen back in the pecking order at Real Madrid this season. Isco hadnt started in La Liga since the 5-1 El Clasico shellacking against Barcelona in late October, while the emergence of Reguilon at left back has rendered Marcelos services a bit obsolete. Bale has never been a favorite of Zidane, but on his day hes still world-class. Zidanes team selection was expectedly familiar; he has a comfort level with these players, with whom hes won the past three Champions League titles, and knew he could count on them to get a result even if the waters were choppy. They were, and they still will be. Despite having no trophies left to realistically play for this season, Real Madrid still has tough away trips to Valencia and fourth-place Getafe, not to mention the fact that every La Liga club treats fixtures against the Spanish giants as marquee affairs. Story continues All Zidane can do is protect Real Madrids Champions League spot, which is comfortable at present but could turn south with a couple bad results. Saturdays result was a good start for all involved. Joey Gulino is the editor of Yahoo Soccer and moonlights as a writer. Follow him on Twitter at @JGulinoYahoo. More from Yahoo Sports: WASHINGTON (AP) Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska filed a lawsuit Friday against the U.S. Treasury Department, saying the sanctions against him have caused a "wholesale devastation" of his wealth and reputation. The billionaire argues he was unfairly and illegally targeted by the U.S. government when he was slapped with sanctions last April targeting tycoons with close ties to the Kremlin. Deripaska's net worth has dropped by $7.5 billion and he has watched his businesses "edge to the brink of collapse," according to the lawsuit, which was filed in federal court in Washington. The suit says it's an 81 percent decrease in his net worth. He wants the sanctions lifted and for a federal judge to order the Treasury Department to remove him from a list of oligarchs. A Treasury Department spokesman referred questions about the lawsuit to the Justice Department, which declined to comment. Deripaska made his billions in the aluminum industry in the rags-to-riches privatization era that followed the collapse of the Soviet Union. He has close ties to President Vladimir Putin and once employed Paul Manafort, President Donald Trump's former campaign chairman, as a consultant. Manafort offered to provide Deripaska with private briefings during Trump's 2016 presidential campaign, but there is no evidence such briefings ever occurred. In January, the Treasury Department lifted sanctions on three companies connected to Deripaska, but he remained personally blacklisted. Treasury's decision to ease the sanctions narrowly survived a Senate vote in January after lawmakers raised concerned that the Trump administration is not being tough enough on Putin and his allies. While some investors are already well versed in financial metrics (hat tip), this article is for those who would like to learn about Return On Equity (ROE) and why it is important. By way of learning-by-doing, well look at ROE to gain a better understanding of Savills plc (LON:SVS). Our data shows Savills has a return on equity of 15% for the last year. One way to conceptualize this, is that for each 1 of shareholders equity it has, the company made 0.15 in profit. View our latest analysis for Savills How Do You Calculate Return On Equity? The formula for ROE is: Return on Equity = Net Profit Shareholders Equity Or for Savills: 15% = UK77m UK505m (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2018.) Its easy to understand the net profit part of that equation, but shareholders equity requires further explanation. It is the capital paid in by shareholders, plus any retained earnings. Shareholders equity can be calculated by subtracting the total liabilities of the company from the total assets of the company. What Does Return On Equity Mean? Return on Equity measures a companys profitability against the profit it has kept for the business (plus any capital injections). The return is the amount earned after tax over the last twelve months. The higher the ROE, the more profit the company is making. So, all else being equal, a high ROE is better than a low one. Clearly, then, one can use ROE to compare different companies. Does Savills Have A Good ROE? Arguably the easiest way to assess companys ROE is to compare it with the average in its industry. Importantly, this is far from a perfect measure, because companies differ significantly within the same industry classification. As is clear from the image below, Savills has a better ROE than the average (11%) in the Real Estate industry. LSE:SVS Past Revenue and Net Income, March 16th 2019 Thats what I like to see. In my book, a high ROE almost always warrants a closer look. One data point to check is if insiders have bought shares recently. Story continues Why You Should Consider Debt When Looking At ROE Companies usually need to invest money to grow their profits. That cash can come from issuing shares, retained earnings, or debt. In the case of the first and second options, the ROE will reflect this use of cash, for growth. In the latter case, the debt required for growth will boost returns, but will not impact the shareholders equity. In this manner the use of debt will boost ROE, even though the core economics of the business stay the same. Combining Savillss Debt And Its 15% Return On Equity Savills has a debt to equity ratio of 0.30, which is far from excessive. Its very respectable ROE, combined with only modest debt, suggests the business is in good shape. Careful use of debt to boost returns is often very good for shareholders. However, it could reduce the companys ability to take advantage of future opportunities. The Bottom Line On ROE Return on equity is a useful indicator of the ability of a business to generate profits and return them to shareholders. Companies that can achieve high returns on equity without too much debt are generally of good quality. If two companies have the same ROE, then I would generally prefer the one with less debt. Having said that, while ROE is a useful indicator of business quality, youll have to look at a whole range of factors to determine the right price to buy a stock. The rate at which profits are likely to grow, relative to the expectations of profit growth reflected in the current price, must be considered, too. So I think it may be worth checking this free report on analyst forecasts for the company. Of course Savills may not be the best stock to buy. So you may wish to see this free collection of other companies that have high ROE and low debt. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. Bratislava (AFP) - Vocal government critic Zuzana Caputova clinched pole position in round one of Slovakia's weekend presidential election, according to near complete results of the first ballot since an investigative journalist's murder dealt a blow to the political establishment. The environmental lawyer secured 40.55 percent of the ballot after 99.88 percent of votes were counted, while runner-up European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic -- the ruling Smer-SD party's candidate -- garnered 18.66 percent, the Slovak Statistics Office said early Sunday. Caputova is on course to become Slovakia's first female president, as a new opinion poll by the Focus pollster said she would win the run-off vote against 52-year-old career diplomat Sefcovic by a landslide on March 30. The 45-year-old liberal thanked her supporters in the race for the largely ceremonial post, saying "Thank you" in Slovak as well as in the languages of the country's largest minority groups. Running on a slogan of "Stand up to evil," Caputova had appealed to voters tired of the country's main political players and vowed to restore public trust in the state. She was among tens of thousands of protesters who took to the streets after last year's killing of journalist Jan Kuciak, which shocked the nation and raised fears about media freedom and political corruption. They were the largest anti-government protests since communist times in the central European country of 5.4 million people, which spent decades behind the Iron Curtain before joining the European Union, the eurozone and NATO. "It turns out that we want our country to be decent and fair. Zuzana Caputova is exactly the person who can pull Slovakia out of the crisis," outgoing President Andrej Kiska said in a Facebook video message after the results rolled in. "Slovakia is on the right track," added the millionaire who backed Caputova. Story continues The president ratifies international treaties, appoints top judges, is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces and can also veto laws passed by parliament. Turnout was just under 50 percent. The voting did not go completely without a hitch, as a man ran out with the ballot box at the polling station in the eastern village of Medzany and threw it to the ground, scattering its contents on the street. Caputova, a deputy head of the non-parliamentary Progressive Slovakia party, cast her ballot in her southern city of Pezinok. "Slovakia is at a crossroads in terms of regaining the public's trust," she said, flanked by her daughters and partner. - 'Symbol of change' - Journalist Kuciak and his fiancee were gunned down in February 2018 just as he was about to publish a story on alleged ties between Slovak politicians and the Italian mafia. The double murder and Kuciak's last explosive report, published posthumously, plunged the country into crisis. Then prime minister Robert Fico was forced to resign but remains the leader of the populist-left Smer-SD and is a close ally of current premier Peter Pellegrini. Four people were charged with the killings. On Thursday, prosecutors said they had also charged multi-millionaire businessman Marian Kocner with ordering the murder of Kuciak, who had been investigating his business activities at the time. Kocner is believed to have ties to Smer-SD. "With this announcement, the authorities may have wanted to show just how effectively the state functions so it could help Sefcovic gain some points," Bratislava-based analyst Grigorij Meseznikov told AFP. "On the other hand, this could also be a vindication for Caputova, as she is the symbol of change." On the streets of Bratislava, several voters said they were impressed by Caputova's fresh approach. Project manager Nora Bajnokova, 33, said she backed Caputova because "she is a woman, a mother, a lawyer and not involved in active politics", while 31-year-old voter Ivan Jankovic called her "courageous and open-minded". But for 41-year-old security guard Oto, who did not give his last name, only Sefcovic was "serious" enough to be presidential material. "Sefcovic is an experienced multilingual diplomat who can immediately represent Slovakia abroad," said another voter, Milan Perunko, 54. A sports enthusiast and European Commission vice-president since 2014, Sefcovic campaigned on the slogan "Always for Slovakia". Official results will be announced at noon on Sunday. Jade Goody and Jeff Brazier in the Virgin Mobile Louder Lounge at the V Festival (Photo by Jon Furniss/WireImage) Its been almost ten years since Jade Goody lost the battle with cancer, that left her two sons, Bobby and Freddy, without a mum. But their dad, Jeff Brazier, has revealed how proud she would be if she could see them today. Brazier made the comments in an interview in New! magazine, where he talked about the boys and how they reacted to his marriage to Kate Dwyer last year. Looking back on the day, he said I was incredibly proud. Just to hear them talk so eloquently and maturely and from the heart was fantastic. The day felt like more than a wedding. When asked whether they took after him or Goody, he admitted, Theyve got a bit of both. Its a complete mixture. The Big Brother star passed away on March 22, 2009 from cervical cancer. She met Brazier in 2002, but they parted ways in 2004. Last summer he married Dwyer and both boys spoke at the celebration. Read more: Jeff Brazier reveals heartache as Jade Goodys anniversary approaches Just a couple of days ago, the TV presenter posted a video of family life in the Brazier household on his Instagram feed. Son Freddy can be seen doing his homework in the background. Goodys other son Bobby seems to be taking after his mum, recently sharing modelling shots of himself on Instagram. Followers commented on just how similar he looked to the Big Brother star. The Brazier family were in the news earlier in the year, when Goodys widower, Jack Tweed, gave a tell-all interview to The Sun, claiming he wasnt allowed to see the children his dead wife had wanted him to adopt. Tweed said, She [Jade] wanted me to adopt the kids, she wanted them to live with me but obviously I said I cant, Jeffs their dad and Im not going to stand in the way. At the time, Brazier considered legal action. Read more: Jeff Brazier breaks silence over Jack Tweed comments Channel 4 will be screening a documentary about Goodys life later this month. Britains prime minister Theresa May leaves 10 Downing Street in London on 14 March, 2019, ahead of a further Brexit vote. Photo: Ben Stansall/AFP/Getty Images Prime minister Theresa Mays Brexit deal will be defeated for a third time in parliament next week, according to analysts at banks and consultancies. It is highly likely that Mrs. May will fail if she tries again, Samuel Tombs, chief UK economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, wrote in a note to clients. His view was echoed by analysts at Morgan Stanley, Credit Suisse, and ING, while UBS said success is far from certain. May is reportedly planning to table a third meaningful vote dubbed MV3 in parliament next week, asking MPs to approve her withdrawal agreement. The first two votes first in January and again on 12 March were both voted down by large margins. While the substance of Mays deal will not have changed, what has changed is the Brexit timetable. MPs voted on Thursday to ask for an extension beyond the 29 March deadline. The prime minister has said she will ask for an extension until 30 June if MPs approve a withdrawal deal by 20 March. If not, she will ask for a much longer delay. The prospect of a longer delay and no-Brexit risk rising could still focus the mind of Brexit-supporting MPs to back the Withdrawal deal, according to Yianos Kontopoulos, the global head of macro strategy at UBS. Press reports suggest that some hard-Brexit MPs who previously rejected the deal are already softening their stance. Some analysts think that Mrs. May might be successful on the third attempt, Pantheons Tombs told clients in a recent note. The logic goes that [May] has lost so much control over her MPs several members of the Cabinet defied the whip on [Wednesdays] no-deal Brexit motion that more Brexiteers finally will back the deal, knowing that only softer forms of Brexit, or no Brexit at all, are the alternatives. However, Tombs expects the deal to be rejected once again. He said Mays deal remains an anathema to the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), as well as the European Research Group (ERG), an influential group of Brexit-supporting Tories. The prime minister must win over both groups in order to get her deal passed. Story continues Most other city analysts share Tombs view. Credit Suisse said it is skeptical that the deal will pass due to the continued objections of the DUP and ERG. Our base case is that PM Mays deal gets rejected in Meaningful Vote 3 and the UK asks for a long extension of Article 50, Sonali Punhani, who covers European economics for Credit Suisse, told clients. Morgan Stanley thinks theres a 25% chance of Mays deal being approved next week. The government would have to attract more Labour rebels or the hardcore Brexiteers, neither of which looks likely to us, economist Jacob Neil wrote. In the end it will come down to politics, according to James Smith, a developed markets economist at Dutch bank ING. Whether or not Mays deal succeeds will depend on a) whether the Brexiteers think there is a real chance of a long Brexit delay and b) whether they think Parliament is likely to rally around a softer Brexit alternative, Smith wrote in a note to clients. He thinks Brexiteers will be unmoved on both points, suggesting another defeat. Ultimately we expect a Withdrawal Agreement to be approved at some point, but the already drawn-out process may have many more months to run before we get there, Dean Turner, UBS chief UK economist, said. Oscar Williams-Grut covers banking, fintech, and finance for Yahoo Finance UK. Follow him on Twitter at @OscarWGrut. Read more: Britain could launch competition unit to challenge tech giants like Google and Facebook Confidence in our leaders is almost gone: business chiefs react to Brexit circus Deutsche Bank: Europe is the biggest risk to the global economy right now What to expect from the Chancellors spring statement Hot fintech Revolut seeks PR firm amid bad headlines Washington (AFP) - US President Donald Trump on Thursday hailed the "unlimited" potential of a trade deal with Britain -- as Brexit is deadlocked in parliament. "My Administration looks forward to negotiating a large scale Trade Deal with the United Kingdom," the president tweeted. "The potential is unlimited!" Brexit's backers are counting on a trade deal with the United States being reached soon after leaving the European Union. In November, Trump suggested British Prime Minister Theresa May had made a mistake by signing an agreement that might impede a future trade deal between London and Washington. And in an interview with The Sun newspaper upon his first official visit to Britain, Trump said he would negotiate with Brussels "much differently." May later revealed that Trump had advised her to "sue the EU." Just 15 days before Brexit is scheduled to leave the EU, British MPs were set to vote Thursday on whether to seek a Brexit delay. President Donald Trump on Friday downplayed the global threat of white nationalism, as other world leaders condemned far-right extremism and racism in the wake of a devastating mass shooting at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand that left at least 49 people dead. I dont really, Trump said in the Oval Office when asked if he saw white nationalism as a rising threat around the world, according to a pool report. I think its a small group of people that have very, very serious problems, I guess. If you look what happened in New Zealand, perhaps thats the case. I dont know enough about it yetBut its certainly a terrible thing. Shortly thereafter, at a press conference Saturday morning, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said she spoke with Trump over the phone about the attack. He very much wished for his condolences to be passed on to New Zealand, she said. He asked what offer of support the United States could provide. My message was sympathy and love for all Muslim communities. He acknowledged that and agreed, she said. Ardern said she did not discuss a reference to Trump that was included in the suspected gunmans manifesto, which included anti-immigrant, white-supremacist rhetoric. A 28-year-old Australian citizen has been charged with murder in connection with the shooting. That was not discussed. He only conveyed his absolute horror and disdain for what had occurred here, Ardern said. Asked if she agreed that white supremacy was not really a threat, Ardern said, no. Trump has repeatedly faced criticism for failing to condemn white supremacy. In 2016, during his campaign for president, he initially refused to condemn the Ku Klux Klan or disavow an endorsement from former Klansman David Duke. In 2017, Trump said both sides were to blame after a neo-Nazi at a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville drove his car into a group of counter protests and killed a woman. In remarks that were widely condemned, Trump said there were very fine people on both sides. Story continues But studies show that far-right extremism and white nationalism are becoming bigger problems around the world. Terrorism from far-right extremism in Europe has been on the rise since 2000, as groups and networks have radicalized because of such issues as refugees and asylum-seekers from Syria and other countries, said a 2018 report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies The number of extreme right-wing attacks rose from nine in 2013 to 30 in 2017 the highest number of right-wing attacks in Europe since 1994, according to the report. The Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism has also tracked a white supremacist resurgence in the United States, calling 2018 a particularly active year for right-wing extremist murders. White supremacists account for 54% of domestic extremist-related murders in the past 10 years, according to a recent ADL report. White supremacists have killed more people in recent years than any other type of domestic extremist, the report stated. And a report published last month by the Southern Poverty Law Center found that the number of hate groups across the U.S. rose to 1,020 in 2018. That figure represents a 20-year high and a 30% increase over the past four years. In the U.S., white supremacist anger reached a fever pitch last year as hysteria over losing a white-majority nation to demographic change and a presumed lack of political will to stop it engulfed the movement, the center said in its report. Donald Trump has used his first veto as president to block a bill that would have prevented him building a border wall - claiming the country was facing an invasion of migrants. In language designed to resonate with his supporters, the president claimed the bill passed by the House and Senate that would have overturned his declaration of a national emergency at the border, was reckless. As president the protection of the nation is my highest duty. Yesterday, Congress passed a dangerous resolution that if signed into law would put countless Americans in danger, very grave danger, he said, seated behind his desk in the Oval Office. Congress has the freedom to pass this resolution, and I have the duty to veto it. He added: Were on track for a million people rushing our borders ... People hate the word invasion, but thats what it is. Earlier this week, 12 Republicans had joined with Democrats to pass a measure 59-41 to rescind the national emergency declared by Mr Trump last month in a move widely seen as a means to circumnavigate a Congress that has rejected his demand for more than $8bn (6bn) in funding for a border wall. The House of Representatives has already passed the bill, and the president had indicted straight away he would make use of his veto powers for the time to block the measure. VETO,, he said on Twitter. Flanked by vice president Mike Pence, attorney general William Barr and Kirstjen Nielsen, the homeland security secretary, the president claimed the bill he had been to sign into law was dangerous. The president found himself facing considerable bipartisan criticism for last months declaration. Democrats said Mr Trump was lying for political gain when he claimed the situation at the border amounted to a national emergency. Both Democrats and Republicans in Congress, resented what they considered presidential overreach and his attempt to take control of powers traditionally held by Congress to fund the government. Democrats responded to Mr Trumps move by announcing they would now try to overturn his veto. Story continues Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the House of Representatives would take up a resolution on March 25 seeking to override his actions. On March 26, the House will once again act to protect our constitution and our democracy from the presidents emergency declaration by holding a vote to override his veto, she said. While Mr Trump suffered several defeats on Capitol Hill this week, it is unclear whether Democrats can gather up the two-thirds majority required in both chambers of Congress to overturn the veto. Reuters said the president expressed pride in the Republicans who did not vote to support the resolution and said later he had sympathy for those who defied him, adding they did what they had to do. The White House had lobbied heavily for Republicans to back Mr Trump, Before the signing ceremony, Mr Trump had thanked those who supported him, but also raised a veiled threat against those who did not. Id like to thank all of the Great Republican Senators who bravely voted for Strong Border Security and the WALL, Trump tweeted. This will help stop Crime, Human Trafficking, and Drugs entering our Country. Watch, when you get back to your State, they will LOVE you more than ever before! ANKARA, Turkey (AP) The war of words between Turkey and Israel continued Friday when Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan rebuked the son of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for suggesting that Istanbul formerly Constantinople was under Turkish occupation. The Turkish and Israeli leaders have been trading barbs this week, with Netanyahu calling Erdogan a "dictator" and criticizing the imprisonment of scores of journalists in Turkey. Erdogan brandished the Israeli leader a "thief" and a "tyrant" in reference to corruption allegations and Israeli policies toward Palestinians. Netanyahu's son, Yair Netanyahu, jumped into the fray, tweeting this week that Istanbul "is actually a city called Constantinople! The capital of the Byzantine empire and center of orthodox Christianity for more than a thousand years before Turkish occupation!" Erdogan hit back at Yair Netanyahu calling him "immoral" at an election rally. "You occupied the whole of Palestine!" he said. "If the world is looking for a country that oppresses, it's Israel. If they are searching for a terror state that too is Israel." Israel and Turkey were once close allies, but diplomatic relations between the two have soured in the past decade. Under Erdogan, Turkey has become a vocal critic of Israeli policies dealing with Palestinians, sparking frequent verbal feuds with Netanyahu. Interviewed on Turkey's Haberturk television on Thursday, Erdogan said Benjamin Netanyahu was "walking around with this stain" of corruption. Erdogan also accused Israel of jailing 10,000 Palestinian women and children and of disrespecting holy sites in Jerusalem. The latest exchange of words started Tuesday when Erdogan's spokesman called Netanyahu a racist for saying Israel was the nation-state only of the Jewish people. (Reuters) - The Trump administration on Friday amended Obama-era land-use rules put in place to protect a threatened bird in 11 Western states and its shrinking sagebrush habitat, siding with oil and gas interests that opposed the measures as too restrictive. Conservation groups denounced the move as a handout to the oil and gas industries, while an industry group praised it. The new rules, announced by the Department of Interior's Bureau of Land Management, fits within the Trump administration's broader plan to increase energy production on federal lands by loosening environmental regulations. Former President Barack Obama's 2015 plan to protect the ground-dwelling sage grouse imposed restrictions to development in their habitat but fell short of placing the bird on the endangered species list, which would have imposed far more rigid rules. In 2017, the DOI ordered a review of protections for sage grouse to "ensure conservation efforts to not impede local economic opportunities." Of the 11 Western states included in the 2015 plans, seven opted for changes, according to BLM. They include California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah and Wyoming. The governors of all of those states except California said in statements that they supported the plan amendments. Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota opted out of amending their sage grouse plans, BLM said. Washington is going through a separate planning process. "We're pleased that the final plans are now out and moving forward into implementation," Kathleen Sgamma, president of oil and gas industry trade group Western Energy Alliance, said in an emailed statement. "Industry will continue to do its part to conserve the species." One conservation expert said different rules in each state would not benefit sage grouse populations. "You end up with a patchwork that ecologically makes no sense," said Ken Rait, program manager for U.S. public lands at the Pew Charitable Trusts. "Sage grouse don't know where the state boundaries are." Story continues Changes in the plans include removing a requirement to prioritize oil and gas leasing and development outside sage grouse habitat in Utah and Wyoming and leaving mitigation plans for offsetting harm to habitats up to states. The new plans replace 8.9 million acres, or 83 percent, of sagebrush focal areas, the most stringent habitat designation, with a lower priority designation. The plans also make it easier for drillers to obtain waivers, exceptions and modifications to lease stipulations intended to prevent harmful surface impacts from oil and gas development. (Reporting by Nichola Groom; Editing by Leslie Adler) By Joseph Ax (Reuters) - A U.S. Navy veteran has been sentenced to 10 years in an Iranian prison, his family's lawyer said, after he was arrested last July while visiting an Iranian woman in the city of Mashhad. Michael White, 46, was convicted of two charges, insulting the country's top leader and posting a private photograph publicly, in separate hearings on March 6 and March 9, according to the lawyer, Mark Zaid. The basis for the first charge is not yet clear. The second charge appears to have been leveled after White uploaded a picture of himself sitting with the woman, an Iranian national, Zaid said. Iranian authorities have not released details of the charges. The U.S. State Department said it was aware of White's detention, but added that it could not provide additional information because of "privacy considerations." "We are aware of the detention of a U.S. citizen in Iran," a State Department official said. "We have no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens abroad." The family learned of the sentence earlier this week from the State Department, which in turn received the information from Swiss diplomats. The Swiss represent U.S. interests in Iran because the countries do not maintain diplomatic ties. White, a California native, served 13 years in the Navy. The family and the State Department are still trying to determine whether the charges are politically motivated or the result of a criminal prosecution, Zaid said. "It's been very unclear," he added. White's arrest has further strained the difficult relationship between the Trump administration and Iran, which worsened after U.S. President Donald Trump withdrew from an international agreement curbing Iran's nuclear program and re-imposed sanctions. The Iranian regime has imprisoned several other American citizens in recent years, including father-and-son Baquer and Siamak Namazi, and Xiyue Wang. All three were accused of espionage-related activities and have denied the allegations. The United Nations has condemned the prosecutions as unjust, and Trump has demanded that Iran release all U.S. citizens in custody. Since January, when Iran first confirmed White's arrest, he has not been permitted to contact his family, Zaid said. His court-appointed lawyer for the two hearings did not speak English, Zaid said, adding that the family is working on hiring an Iranian lawyer to handle White's appeal. (Reporting by Joseph Ax; Additional reporting by David Brunnstrom; Editing by Nick Zieminski and Bill Berkrot) WASHINGTON A U.S. Navy veteran was sentenced to 10 years in an Iranian prison, according to his attorney, potentially fueling more friction between the United States and Iran. Michael T. White, a veteran from California who has been held in the country since July, was given a decade behind bars, according to his attorney Mark Zaid, who added he is still unsure of the details that led to charges against White. "We are just learning of information concerning Michael's sentence. After receiving news of the conviction we're in the process of hiring a local Iranian attorney to pursue whatever appeals exist," Zaid said. "It's unclear at this time whether Michael is simply an unfortunate foreigner caught in a very different legal system or being used as a political pawn." The Associated Press and New York Times reported White was charged with insulting Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and posting private information online. The State Department said it was aware of White's detention but had no additional information. "We have no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens abroad," a State Department official said in a statement. White was arrested in July after reportedly going to the country to visit his girlfriend. He was the first American detained in Iran during the Trump presidency. More: U.S. Navy veteran has been held in Iranian jail since July, mother says More: An American is detained or goes missing abroad. What happens next? Call President Trump? His long sentence in an Iranian prison sets up what could be another flashpoint in a longstanding diplomatic standoff between Iran and the U.S. over detainees and hostages. Disputes between the two countries stretch back to Iran's Revolution in 1979 when 52 American diplomats and citizens were held hostage inside the U.S. Embassy in Tehran for 444 days from November 4, 1979, to January 20, 1981. Story continues Relations between the United States and Iran are already strained. Last year, President Donald Trump pulled out of the Iran nuclear deal, in which the U.S. and allies eased sanctions on Tehran as it gave up the means to make nuclear weapons. Since then, Trump has beefed up sanctions against the country and accused Iran of secretly working toward the goal of building nuclear weapons. More: Exclusive: Iran open to talks with US if Trump changes approach to nuclear deal, top diplomat says INSIDE IRAN: Americas contentious history in Iran leads to mix of anger, wonderment and weariness Iran's foreign ministry has not released much about White's case besides that White has been held since July. Gholamali Sadeghi, an Iranian prosecutor, said in January that White was being held in connection to a "private complaint," according to the semi-official Mehr news agency. "He is not in a good physical and mental condition," Ivar Farhadi, an Iranian who says he was held in the same prison as White before his own release in November, told USA TODAY earlier this year. Farhadi fled to Turkey, from where he relayed his encounter with the American. "If the U.S. government does not push for his freedom, the possibility of him surviving is very poor," he said in a private exchange via Twitter. Farhadi said White is being held inside the Vakilabad Prison in the eastern city of Mashhad. He described conditions there as akin to torture. "It is filled with dangerous criminals, always cold, and cameras everywhere. The lights were always on," he said. At least three other U.S. citizens are also being held in Iranian prisons under espionage charges the State Department has denounced as fabricated. Chinese-American Xiyue Wang as well as Iranian-American businessman Siamak Namazi and his father, Baquer Namazi, are all serving 10-year sentences. Contributing: Kim Hjelmgaard, Deirdre Shesgreen and David Jackson This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: U.S. Navy veteran held in Iran sentenced to 10 years in prison, attorney says By Lee Van Der Voo WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Hundreds of youngsters skipped school to rally in Washington on Friday as part of what organizers called an international youth climate strike to seek action on climate change. Chanting "climate action now!", some 1,500 students joined the event in front of the Capitol Building, where Congress sits, while similar rallies were held in 46 states. The demonstrations, which demanded politicians take action to combat climate change, backed measures including the Green New Deal, an ambitious Democratic environmental proposal that has become a lightning rod for Republican criticism. "This is the only Earth that we have. There is no Planet B. There is no other place we can go so we need to save it," said Elise Haverland, a 16-year-old from Silver Spring, Maryland. Protesters carried colorful homemade placards bearing slogans such as "Our planet, our future," "Let us Live," and "Don't frack up our Earth." The students also held an 11-minute silence, one for each of the years that a United Nations report said the world has remaining to get climate change under control. School children across the world held demonstrations to demand action on climate change on Friday. The protests are the offspring of youth strikes in Europe that were inspired by Greta Thunberg, a lone 15-year-old picketer at the Swedish Parliament. Organizers said they hope staging the event during the school day will signal the importance that students attach to fighting climate change. "Adults come fight with us!" 12-year-old Haven Coleman of Denver, one of three youth organizers of the protest in the United States, said from the stage. The two other leaders of the U.S. movement are Isra Hirsi, the 16-year-old daughter of newly-elected Democratic U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar, of Minneapolis, and Alexandria Villasenor, 13, of New York. The group is calling for a "national emergency" on climate change and for the United States to stop all greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Story continues The scientific community broadly agrees that greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced to net-zero by 2050 to halt the catastrophic effects of climate change. Most of the declared Democratic candidates for the White House have already voiced support for the Green New Deal, a measure proposed by Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez - a sweeping 10-year blueprint for combating climate change that involves reducing carbon emissions and retrofitting infrastructure. Republicans have dismissed the proposals as unreasonably expensive and disruptive to the U.S. economy. They have tried to use some of the measures to sow discord within the Democratic party, painting their political rivals as shifting to the left and embracing extreme policies. (Reporting by Lee Van Der Voo; Writing by Gabriella Borter; Editing by Scott Malone and Rosalba O'Brien) By Brenna Hughes Neghaiwi ZURICH (Reuters) - Britain must take part in European parliamentary elections if its departure from the European Union is pushed back beyond July 1, Austria's delegate to Brexit negotiations said in an interview published on Saturday. British Prime Minister Theresa May is expected to head to Brussels next week to request a short delay to the exit process after the UK parliament on Thursday voted in favor of extending negotiations beyond the original March 29 deadline. "We have to wait and see what the government in London actually proposes. If there is an extension beyond July 1, then in any event, the United Kingdom must vote in May for the European elections," Austrian diplomat Gregor Schusterschitz said in an interview with Austrian newspaper Der Standard. "The EU has never been the side in the negotiations that has rejected something for reasons of principle. This also applies to the question of the extension: it shouldn't fail because of us." Several EU leaders have already said Britain must either have left before a new European Parliament is elected in May to take office in July or must hold its own EU election in order to avoid any legal challenge to the legitimacy of the legislature. In the interview, Schusterschitz also said the EU might have been too soft on Britain and allowed it too long to conduct a largely domestic discussion, which involved less debate with the EU than it did internal political back-and-forth. "Maybe we could have been more brutal sometimes," he said. "We didn't do that, and so we probably allowed British politics too long to fool around - and not face the really difficult questions, which are being discussed now, much earlier." (Reporting by Brenna Hughes Neghaiwi; Editing by Mark Potter) Washington (AFP) - The United States, in coordination with the European Union and Canada, Friday slapped new sanctions on more than a dozen officials and businesses in response to Russia's "continued aggression in Ukraine." Six Russian officials, six defense firms and two energy and construction firms were targeted, either over the seizure of Ukrainian vessels in the Kerch Straight, or for their activities in Russian-annexed Crimea or separatist eastern Ukraine, a US Treasury statement said. "The United States and our transatlantic partners will not allow Russia's continued aggression against Ukraine to go unchecked," Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin was quoted as saying. The US sanctions freeze all property and interests in property belonging to the designated individuals and entities, and prohibit US persons from transacting with them. Four of the individuals are border guard or coast guard officials, singled out for their role in a November 25, 2018 naval confrontation, in which Russian ships fired on and seized three Ukrainian vessels in the narrow Kerch Strait the two countries share. The four were targeted jointly with the EU and Canada according to the State Department. Twenty-four Ukrainian crew members were detained in the naval incident. "We call upon Russia to immediately return to Ukraine the seized vessels and detained crewmembers, and keep the Kerch Strait and the Sea of Azov open to ships transiting to and from Ukrainian ports," added State Department spokesman Robert Palladino in a statement. "We also call on Russia to respect Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, including its territorial waters." The United States additionally imposed sanctions on two Ukrainian separatists -- Aleksey Naydenko and Vladimir Vysotsky -- involved in organizing November elections in the breakaway east, which Washington says were a "sham." Story continues The six defense firms were targeted over their operations in Russian-annexed Crimea, where the United States says several "misappropriated Ukrainian state assets to provide services to the Russian military." Among them are Russian shipbuilding giant Zelenodolsk, the hydroacoustic equipment producer Okeanpribor, a diesel engine supplier to the Russian military, Zvezda, and an electronic parts supplier to the military, Fiolent. Foreign affairs committee chair in the upper house of the Russian parliament, Konstantin Kosachev, denounced the sanctions on Facebook: "The scheme worked: provocation -- reaction -- sanctions. This means that Kiev can now easily provoke as many Western sanctions as it wants," he wrote. Jeff Garzik, a software engineer often credited with helping in the creation of Bitcoin, has been subpoenaed by a US District Court in connection with a lawsuit against Craig White. "You got served" The #Bitcoin lawsuit drones on. In the interest of radical transparency, here's the subpoena that just arrived for me (sans page 1): https://t.co/jCSZjwxVcp Jeff Garzik (@jgarzik) March 15, 2019 He is being asked to shed some light on claims that the late David Kleiman was Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoins anonymous creator. This revolves around the family of Kleiman accusing Wright of stealing more than one million Bitcoins after the former died. Late last year, a dismissal request submitted by Wright was rejected in part by the court. Kleiman died on 26th April 2013, and it was at this time that Wright contacted his estate offering his help to dispose of the aforementioned Bitcoin fortune. He did so in part, but did not return the funds, the family says. The news of Wrights appeal for dismissal being denied came after a court document was published online on 27th December. The document read: The Court has considered the Motion, the record, the parties briefs, and the applicable law. For the reasons that follow, the Motion is granted in part and denied in part. It went on to detail how, Craig used the private keys that Dave and Craig shared to move the Bitcoins out of their wallets and then claimed to own the Bitcoins really owned by W&K and/or Dave by creating a series of fraudulent contracts and documents. Craig then moved the stolen Bitcoin into trusts only known and controlled by him for use in making large trades for his Australian business. (Note: W&K is David Kleimans Info and Defence Research LLC business). The details of the case are extensive; however, in the end, Judge Bloom ruled that Counts III and IV of Plaintiffs Amended Complaint, ECF No. [33], are dismissed with prejudice, but Wright still must answer to Counts, I, II, V-IX. The post Youve been served: Jeff Garzik tweets about Craig White, Bitcoin lawsuit appeared first on Coin Rivet. Caracas (AFP) - German journalist Billy Six, detained by Venezuelan intelligence services four months ago, was freed Friday in Caracas -- but must report to the court every 15 days, an NGO confirmed. Six was arrested in northern Falcon state for allegedly photographing President Nicolas Maduro "very closely," according to free speech NGO Espacio Publico. "German journalist Billy Six is freed ... they are imposing interim measures of presentation every 15 days and prohibition to speak to the media about his case. We demand full freedom," the group said on Twitter. Six went on hunger strike in December, before lifting it pending diplomatic efforts, according to the German embassy. He then published a letter claiming he had been denied the right to defense and that he had not received the results of medical testing after suffering from dengue fever in late October. He was in the country to investigate drug trafficking, smuggling and human trafficking -- and the exodus of Venezuelans forced to migrate due to economic crisis. CARACAS (Reuters) - Venezuela is suspending school and business activities on Tuesday amid a continuing power blackout, Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez said in a televised broadcast on Monday. That is the third such cancellation since power went out last week. (Reporting by Caracas newsroom, Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) Tulu Fara (Ethiopia) (AFP) - From a quiet farmland at the base of rolling hills outside Ethiopia's capital, the sound of wailing rang through the air. Devastated mourners flung themselves onto a ground littered with business cards, seat covers and shards of aluminium. They cried the names of loved ones who had been aboard the jetliner that nose-dived into the field, leaving a dark scar in the soil but barely a trace of their existence. "You were to be married soon! Why would you die?" one woman cried into the void. Only the rumble of bulldozers digging for remains deep into the soil, and the pop of flares fired by police to disperse circling crows, punctuated the sobbing. All 157 people on Ethiopian Airlines flight ET302 died when their Boeing 737 MAX 8 crashed just six minutes after departing Addis Ababa on Sunday, heading for Nairobi. Families from 35 countries were bereaved. Relatives began trickling to the site of the obliterated jet on Wednesday, some bussed in by Ethiopian Airlines, others on their own steam. The melting pot of mourners all grieved in their own way, some praying, others scooping soil from the ground, while some offered fruit or flowers. "Nobody expected this could happen to her. She loved her life," said Ethiopian Micky Kassa, whose cousin Mygenet Worku, 28, was flying to attend a UN environment conference in Nairobi. "She has an old mother who raised her as a single parent. It's very sad news," he told AFP. For Ethiopians, the crash is a national tragedy, and even people untouched by the disaster made the trek to the remote site to pay their respects. Ethiopian Airlines is Africa's largest carrier and in many ways the international face of the country. The country lost nine passengers and eight crew in the disaster. "Every Ethiopian has to be here," said Genanaw Dibekulu, a bank branch manager who took the day off to visit the site. "It's tragic. If it had been my relative, I'd have gone mad." Story continues - 'My brother!' - As weeping filled the air, officials from the World Food Programme and other UN agencies that lost staff in the crash stood silently in a semi-circle, their heads bowed before a spread of white flowers set up to honour the victims. Nairobi and the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa both host large regional offices of the UN, which lost 22 staffers on the ill-fated plane. Buses at the site near Hama Qutushele village unloaded relatives, who walked over to chairs set up under a tent, many howling inconsolably. Some needed support as they staggered forward, while others carried framed portraits of their lost loved ones. Funeral rites from different religions played off next to each other, as one man yelled "My brother!" in agony, and others repeated the same name over and over. Investigators from the United States, Britain, plane manufacturer Boeing, Interpol, and the Ethiopian government are combing the site for clues as to what caused the crash -- the second by a Boeing 737 MAX 8 in less than six months. Relatives of one Israeli killed in the crash demanded access to a cordoned off area where excavators are working. "They don't allow us to access the site," complained Sahan Biton, whose uncle Shimon Reem, a security expert consulting for a Nairobi mall, was among the dead. Under Jewish custom, Reem cannot be buried until at least some remains had been found, Biton said. He complained that the Ethiopian government was refusing to hand over remains or to let an Israeli search team into the impact site to find more. - 'Can't bury our uncle' - "Until we... have a remain, we can't bury our uncle," Biton said, standing with five other Israelis holding a flag as they sang their national anthem and recited funeral rites to honour the dead. Witnesses have said the plane plunged nose-first into the earth, and on Thursday there were few identifiable pieces of the plane left, apart from a wheel and some tattered pieces of metal that appeared as they came from an engine. "Yesterday, I found a leg," said Zhang Jun, a Chinese construction worker whose excavator was diverted to the crash site from working on an expansion to the Addis Ababa airport. He estimated the remains were buried as deep as 20 meters (66 feet). Whatever belongings he has found were so damaged that when he discovered a credit card and passport, he could not decipher who they had belonged to. "Everything is by piece, nothing in big size," he said. Paris (AFP) - After weeks of declining participation, France's "yellow vest" protest movement attempted to rebound on Saturday with a major rally in Paris which quickly turned violent. A large crowd gathered on the Champs-Elysees avenue for the 18th straight week of anti-government protests which initially rocked President Emmanuel Macron's administration, forcing him to adopt more anti-poverty measures, but had appeared to fizzle in recent weeks. Police fired tear gas to disperse protesters who erected barricades near the Champs-Elysees in scenes reminiscent of some of the most tense "yellow vest" rallies. Saturday's attempted reboot coincides with the end of two months of public debates called by Macron to take the heat out of the protests, which repeatedly ended in rioting in December and January. The level of participation will be seen as a bellwether of support for the movement, which began in November over fuel tax hikes but quickly ballooned into an anti-Macron revolt. Last week, only around 28,000 people demonstrated nationwide, according to the authorities, a tenth of the numbers that turned out for the inaugural protest on November 17. The organisers of Saturday's protest presented it as an "ultimatum" to Macron, prompting fears of a return to the violence that characterised earlier rallies. Over 5,000 police were deployed. A large security cordon had been thrown up around the Champs-Elysees, where the Arc de Triomphe war memorial was sacked and stores looted and vandalised by protesters on December 1 in images that caused shock worldwide. In December, Macron attempted to stopper the movement by pledging 10 billion euros ($11.2 billion) in tax cuts and benefits for the low paid and pensioners. He also launched a "grand national debate" on the internet and town hall meetings to gather opinions on how the country could be reformed. Laurent Casanova, an engineer who was among the protesters, told AFP he had come to mark the end of the consultations. "We have been patient but now we want results," he said. The protest is one of several planned in Paris on Saturday, where French climate campaigners are also planning a "March of The Century". New Zealand's prime minister vowed Saturday to toughen the country's gun laws after revealing the alleged shooter behind Christchurch's mosque attacks had legally bought the five weapons, including two semi-automatic rifles, used in the massacre. The nation's firearms laws are lax compared to neighbouring Australia, which enacted a strict gun control regime in the wake of a similar massacre in 1996. Jacinda Ardern said 28-year-old Australian Brenton Tarrant obtained a "Category A" gun licence in November 2017 which allowed him to purchase the weapons used to mow down worshippers in two Christchurch mosques. Some of the guns appear to have been modified to make them more deadly, she said, adding that a ban on semi-automatic weapons would be considered. "The mere fact... that this individual had acquired a gun licence and acquired weapons of that range, then obviously I think people will be seeking change, and I'm committing to that," she told a press conference. "I can tell you one thing right now -- our gun laws will change." Ardern confirmed that the suspected gunman and two associates who were also arrested had not been on the radar of any intelligence agencies for extremism. "I have asked our agencies this morning to work swiftly on assessing whether there was any activity on social media or otherwise, that should have triggered a response. That work is already underway," she said. The head of the New Zealand Police Association, Chris Cahill, welcomed Ardern's comments and said previous attempts to introduce gun controls had failed partly because of diehard opponents to reform. "I believe many New Zealanders will be aghast that in our country someone can amass a cache of weapons like that discovered in this Christchurch tragedy," he said in a statement. "There is no place in the upcoming debate for the radical gun lobby which has made its presence felt in previous attempts to make our country safer." Story continues He highlighted the "bitter irony" that the alleged Australian shooter would not have been able to buy the same weapons in his home country. - 'Knee-jerk reaction' - At least one of the weapons used by Tarrant was reportedly an AR-15 -- the same semi-automatic rifle used in a number of mass shootings in the United States, including the 2012 Sandy Hook school killings in Connecticut. Families of the Sandy Hook victims were recently given the green light to sue US gunmaker Remington for knowingly marketing a military grade weapon that is "grossly unsuited" for civilian use and has become the gun of choice for mass killings. But despite the horror of the Christchurch shootings, some local residents who AFP spoke with Saturday warned against any drastic moves on gun control. "Let's hope there are no knee-jerk reactions," said Matthew Simmonds. "Just because a lot of people are killed on the roads we don't ban cars. There needs to be a proper investigation." New Zealand tightened its gun laws to restrict access to semi-automatic rifles in 1992, two years after a mentally ill man shot dead 13 people in the southern town of Aramoana. But subsequent efforts to tighten the laws, including a ban on semi-automatic weapons, have stalled in parliament. Anyone over 16 can apply for a New Zealand firearms licence, valid for 10 years after completing a safety course and a police background check. Most guns do not require registration under New Zealand's Arms Act and police do not know "how many legally or illegally owned firearms there are in New Zealand", police said last year. In 2014, police estimated there were up to 1.2 million legal firearms in civilian ownership, or around one for every four members of the public -- twice the per capita number of guns in Australia. Separate "endorsements" are required to own semi-automatic weapons, as well as pistols and other restricted weapons but police and firearms experts have pointed to several loopholes. The word repeated over and over across New Zealand is "Why?" Why was the country, thought of as among the most peaceful in the world, singled out for a horrifying terrorist attack? This South Pacific nation, hailed by Muslim immigrants as a "heaven on earth", ranks second only to Iceland on the Global Peace Index. But in just 36 minutes on Friday afternoon, 49 Muslims were shot dead at two Christchurch mosques, leaving more dead than there were murders in all of last year. In a country where police routinely patrol unarmed, parents strained to explain to their kids what happened, even as they struggled to understand it themselves. A sole gunman "made the point that there is nowhere that's far enough away", said Chris, who took his children aged 12, nine and four, to the scene of the Linwood mosque where seven were gunned down. "It's a fine line between telling the children this is the reality of it," he said, "and not exposing them to the true nature of humanity that can lead to this sort of thing." Nearby, a heavily armed policewoman tried to explain to two young girls she was holding a rifle to keep them safe, to which one of the girls responded by saying the gunman had used a rifle to kill people. - Paradise lost? - New Zealand is not a Utopia, there are occasional reports of racism and anti-immigrant attitudes, but they attract headlines because they are not the norm. "I live in New Zealand because the first time I came here in 2011, I found a place that was heaven on earth and I decided to bring my family to live here in peace, away from all the troubles," a Palestinian man told AFP. People from all walks of life arrived at the police barriers near the mosques on Saturday to pay their respects and to show support for New Zealand's 50,000 Muslims, who make up about one percent of the population. "This is not something you'd expect on our soil," said Luke Smith, who was also in Christchurch eight years ago when devastating earthquakes killed 185 people. Story continues "It's a different sort of feeling to the earthquakes. That being a natural disaster and this being an outright act of terrorism. It leaves you feeling totally different. "Shock would be the biggest way to describe it. You don't think it's going to happen on our soil." Chris said it showed New Zealand's geographical isolation counted for little in a connected world. "It shows you can immerse yourself in a nice, gentle society and in the social media part, he can immerse himself in another community that reinforces his ideas and rage." On the sombre streets of Christchurch, Jeremy Mitchell said it was "surreal" such a massacre could happen in New Zealand. "I think everyone in the community is 100 percent in support of the Muslim community and the Muslim families who have lost their loved ones. "We want to say we have no part of that (massacre) and we don't believe what (the gunman) believes." The people of Ozzu- Ndiukwuenu in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State have protested the alleged intimidation by those they described as government agents. They alleged that some agents of government had forcefully taken over their land and unleashed cult gangs on them. While urging the state governor, Willie Obiano, to intervene , they said life had become unbearable for them in the area . Carrying placards of different inscriptions, the community wondered why the state government would authorise such terror and brigandage on them by its agents. Addressing reporters, the leader of the community, Chief Peter Nwafor, said the government agents had balkanised and sold a forest reserve in the area. Their statement read in part, Gathered here in protest are men , women , ancestors and even unborn members of Ozzu-Ndiukwuenu. We are protesting the grave injustice done to us , our ancestors and unborn generations by agents of your government who have forcefully taken over our land and bestowed the rights to same in the hands of known criminals from within and outside our community. This single action of empowering and rewarding criminality has led to the deterioration of security situation in Ozzu- Ndiukwuenu such that the community has become inaccessible after 8 pm due to the nefarious activities of the group of people your government has empowered. It is unacceptable to us that your government has given approval to the de - reservation of some portion of this land , shared it among some powerful agents of your government and known trouble makers in Anambra State in total disregard of these terms of the agreement reached by your predecessor. The leadership of the community was neither consulted nor informed of this grave decision that will affect the life of the community in many ways. Addressing the protesters , a senior special assistant to the governor on security , Oscar Christopher , assured them of government s intervention on matter , urging them not to take the law into their own hands . KINDLY DROP A COMMENT BELOW Gregory Wischer During Bhutans Prime Minister Lotay Tsherings December visit to New Delhi, India Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, Development of hydroelectric projects is an important part of the long history of Indias aid to Bhutan. While hydropower has bolstered Bhutans economy, it has failed to combat Bhutans major economic concern: unemployment. However, China, Indias geopolitical rival, is eager to alleviate such worries, albeit with ulterior motives. If the India-Bhutan economic relationship is hydropower-centric, Bhutan may welcome Chinas economic development overtures and subsequent strategic territorial demands. Beginning with the 1949 Treaty of Friendship, the all-weather partnership between the subcontinent giant and the geostrategic Himalayan kingdom was critical for both parties: India is Bhutans largest aid donor; Bhutan respects Indias concerns about China. Since 1961, Indias aid has centered on financing Bhutanese hydroelectric projects that sell electricity back to India. Representing 25 percent of Bhutans GDP and three-fourths of its total electricity generation, Bhutanese electricity exports to energy-hungry India have fueled Bhutan into one of the fastest growing Asian economies. Nevertheless, hydropower has been unable to solve Bhutans unemployment problem. Unemployment in Thimphu, Bhutans capital, rose from 5.4 percent in 2005 to 6 percent in 2017, and total youth unemployment of 10.6 percent presently outsizes the national average of 2.4 percent. [Hydropower] has not been able to solve the unemployment issue, which is our immediate concern, said Tandi Dorji, foreign minister of the now ruling Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa (DNT) party in a Nikkei Asian Review article. The [hydropower] sector has been able to employ only 2 percent of the Bhutanese workforce. Still, India has unceasingly emphasized hydropower: three major hydroelectric projects are under construction; India and Bhutan signed an agreement in 2014 to build four more hydroelectric projects, and discussions are underway to develop a mega hydroelectric project. To increase employment, Tshering and the DNT aim to expand Bhutans economic relations beyond India-Bhutan hydropower cooperation. It would be unwise to hinge the countrys economy solely on a single sector, states the DNTs Narrowing the Gap manifesto. With Bhutans diversification objectives, a single-minded Indo-Bhutanese economic relationship may allow Indias geostrategic rival to fill the economic void. By fulfilling economic development requests, largely infrastructure, in Bangladesh, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, China has obtained strategic footholds in Indias sphere of influence. Now, Bhutan, Indias only steadfast neighbor and Chinas sole neighbor with whom it does not have formal diplomatic relations, is Chinas target. Though Thimphu remains wary of upsetting New Delhi, Bhutans leaders have voiced growing interest in Chinas economy, GDP nearly five times larger than Indias GDP, substantial Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) financing, and resolution of the perennial Sino-Bhutanese border dispute. Our relations with China, the second largest economy in the world and an emerging global power is increasing and we continue to maintain peaceful and cordial relations, said then Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Togbay in his June 2018 parliament speech. In addition to Chinas economy, its BRI, an ambitious regional and global connectivity plan steeped in infrastructure development, has also caught the attention of Bhutans political leadership. In July 2018, Chinas Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou discussed the BRI with King Jigme Singye Wangchuk and Tobgay in Thimphu. The Bhutanese side welcomes the positive outcomes of the Belt and Road Initiative[Bhutan] is committed to deepening exchanges and cooperation with China, Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) quoted Bhutans leaders in a statement following the visit. As Chinas economy and Beijings development proposals gain favor in Thimphu, resolution to their long-standing territorial dispute may also be forthcoming. During Kongs visit, the two sides discussed Doklam contested Bhutan-occupied territory near the India-Bhutan-China tri-junction border where the Indian army and Peoples Liberation Army have faced off. Control of the Doklam Plateau enables strategic primacy over the Siliguri Corridor, also known as Indias Chickens Neck, which connects the majority of India to its isolated northeastern states. China previously offered Bhutan 495 square kilometers in exchange for 269 square kilometers of territory in Doklam, but Bhutan has denied its offers through 24 rounds of talks. Notwithstanding Bhutans past consideration of Indias strategic interests and their special relationship, prospective Chinese development assistance has a proven track record of affecting robust partnerships and influencing territorial concessions. The Philippines, a historic U.S. treaty ally and formerly ardent defender of its South China Sea territorial claims, conceded disputed territory to China after the latter committed capital to the Philippines. Manila-based analyst and academic, Richard Heydarian, indicated to NPR that China was possibly dangling those [financial] incentives to lure the Philippines into geopolitical concessions. Similarly, while the 2007 India-Bhutan Friendship Treaty requires India and Bhutan to cooperate closely with each other on issues relating to their national interests, potential Chinese development assistance may entice Bhutan to consider border concessions with its economic interests, not Indias national interests, in mind. India-Bhutan hydropower cooperation has economically strengthened Bhutan, but its inability to relieve Bhutanese unemployment has led Thimphu to seek economic diversification. If New Delhi fails to augment hydropower cooperation, Chinas economic-tipped wedge may widen the crack in the India-Bhutan partnership. Such a fissure may provide Beijing space to negotiate favorable territorial concessions and supply yet another strategic Chinese foothold on Indias doorstep. Home | News | General | Breaking: 23 trapped, 6 rescued as two- storey building collapses in Ibadan Barely 48 hours after a three-storey building collapsed in the Ita-Faaji area of Lagos Island, killing at least 12 persons, including nine children, another building has collapsed in Ibadan, capital of Oyo state. According to Tribune Online, the two-storey building which collapsed at Sogoye, along Bode area of the city, has left 23 people trapped in the rubble while six people have been pulled out. READ ALSO: APC removes giant broom at Abuja City Gate The news medium also reported that people trapped under the collapsed building could be heard making phone calls crying for help. Going further, it reported that the fire service personnel at the scene of the collapsed building were helpless, as there was no equipment to carry out the rescue operation. Meanwhile, Legit.ng had reported that the Lagos state commissioner for health, Jide Idris, said that 20 victims of the Itafaji School building collapse were brought in dead to the General Hospital in the state. Idris made the fact known during his visit to the hospital on Friday in Lagos. According to him, the corpses have been released to the families for burial. However, he said that 45 persons survived the collapse and were managed across some of the state health facilities, including Lagos Island General Hospital, Massey Street Childrens Hospital, Onikan Health Centre and the Gbagada General Hospital. PAY ATTENTION: Get the Latest Nigerian News Anywhere 24/7. Spend less on the Internet! NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng: Same great journalism, upgraded for better service! Lagos School Collapse: My aunts children are trapped - lady weeps| Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Amaechi apologises to Nigerians over suspension of free Iju-Abeokuta train ride - Rotimi Amaechi has apologised to Nigerians over the suspension of the Iju-Abeokuta free train ride - The minister of transportation said that the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) suspended the three months free train ride due to security and safety of passengers - Going further, he added that if a new minister should takeover, he believes the person would have the passion to complete the project The minister of transportation, Rotimi Amaechi on Friday, March 15, apologised to Nigerians over the suspension of the Iju-Abeokuta free train ride during the 2019 general elections. Amaechi tendered the apology during the monthly rail inspection of the Lagos-Ibadan modernisation project in Ibadan. He said that the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) suspended the three months free train ride due to security and safety of passengers. READ ALSO: Police asked me to implicate Saraki in Offa robbery case - Suspect It was suspended by the Chinese and the excuse they gave me was that they cannot allow it run because of safety, since they have not completed the second line but they are almost through with it. It is almost completed from Iju to Abeokuta. I want to apologise to Nigerians that they suspended it when they left the country, which I didnt envisage, they will go back soon, Amechi said. Speaking on his passion for the project, Amaechi said that the responsibility was given to him by President Muhammadu Buhari, which must be delivered to create jobs and boost the economy. I know you will say Im stressed up but as a minister, I have a responsibility passed to me by Mr President and I must deliver on it. Also, the economy of Nigeria can be driven most importantly, if we can link the seaport to hinterland because when cargoes come, they must go. The more you are able to move goods and services to hinterland, the more you will create jobs and the more you create jobs, the more growth that you will have and that is my drive, he said. The minister, however, said that he was always passionate about his job, stating that if a new minister would takeover, he was sure that the person would have the passion to complete the project. You see, me and passion, if you watched me as the governor of Rivers, that same passion was there. I was restless at delivering my responsibility. I pray that whoever will be the Minister of Transportation should have the same passion and focus on that responsibility. You can never tell, that passion is everywhere, he said. PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app Recall that Legit.ng had reported that the the vice president, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo flagged off the test run of the standard gauge rail project on February 6 for passengers' use. The federal government also said that the public would thereafter enjoy two-month free ride on the route from February 7. A ride on the Abuja-Kaduna railway - on Legit.ng TV: [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | How APC won Zamfara elections in 24 hours, Governor Yari explains - The successes recorded by the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the general elections has been attributed to divine intervention - Governor Abdulaziz Yari of Zamfara disclosed this when he fielded questions from State House correspondents - Yari insisted that it was God that gave this political victory to the APC in the state Governor Abdulaziz Yari of Zamfara has attributed the successes recorded by the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the Feb. 23 and March 9 general elections in the state despite the partys crisis to divine intervention. Yari disclosed this when he fielded questions from State House correspondents in Abuja on Friday. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the APC was allowed to field candidates for all the elections in the state only a week before the first day of elections (Feb. 23) when a Court of Appeal in Sokoto, Sokoto State, reversed an earlier decision of a lower court, which had banned the party from the elections. READ ALSO:Police asked me to implicate Saraki in Offa robbery case - Suspect The Zamfara state Collation Officer, Prof. Kabir Bala of the Ahmadu Bello (ABU) Zaria, had announced that the APC Presidential candidate, President Buhari, won the Feb. 23 presidential election in the state with 438,682 votes while the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, scored 125,423 votes. Bala also disclosed that the APC had won the three senatorial seats and the seven seats in the House of Representatives from the state in the Feb. 23 presidential and parliamentary elections. He said the APC governorship candidate won the state governorship election with 534,541 to defeat Bello Muhammad Mutawalle of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who got 189,452 while the APC also won all the 24 seats in the Zamfara State House of Assembly. Yari, who spoke to State House correspondents in Abuja on Friday, said he was happy with the outcome of the elections, saying that it was God that gave this political victory to the APC in the state. He said: You know the turmoil that Zamfara elections put on Nigeria, disagreements upon disagreements, from the party to court and then to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) which disagreed. Then, we went back to court and finally under 24 hours, we were cleared and we were back on the ballot box. Only God has done this and given us the victory. I am very happy with the outcome of the elections. I also want to appreciate my people, despite the fact that some people felt I was carried away by the activities at the centre, insinuating I abandoned the seat, especially with the security problem, but the people are aware of what the administration has been doing and they appreciate it. Despite the daily attacks, the security agencies were up and doing and their presence in the state was well appreciated by the people. They also appreciated the efforts of Mr President which took us to where we are. Like I said only God could have done it. The governor also disclosed that he had succeeded in reconciling all the aggrieved APC aspirants in the state. He said his pass experience as party chairman in the state, member, House of Representatives and governor for eight years had helped him to restore peace and tranquility within the governing APC in the state. In my state, there were only seven or eight people contesting for the governorship position and I have said it that if I could preside over primaries where 18 people contested and succeeded, why cant I manage eight, nine or 10 in my state? I have been on ground since 1999 to date and I know the system and how it works. I have been party secretary, party chairman, House of Representative and a two-term Governor, is with this experience that I was able to manage. Unfortunately, there were a lot of misunderstanding between the party in the state and the national body but in the end we ended in the court and the court gave the verdict and INEC compiled. Though, it came late, but if you are with the grassroots definitely everything must work well. The people appreciated what we have been doing and when it came to voting, they voted wisely, he added. Yari, whose tenure as chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum would expire by May 29, expressed the hope that the forum would remain united and work in tandem with the federal governments agenda. PAY ATTENTION: Download our mobile app to enjoy the latest news update Meanwhile, Legit.ng had reported that Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle who is the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Zamfara has vowed to reclaim his 'stolen mandate' at the elections petition tribunal. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng upgrades to serve you better. 2019 elections: Do you still trust INEC to conduct fair elections? - Nigerians speak| Legit TV. [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Kate Henshaw reacts to Lagos-Island building collapse, lists tragic incidents that recently occurred in Nigeria - Nigerian actress Kate Henshaw has expressed sadness over the lives lost recently in Nigeria - The actress noted that no one would be held accountable or bear the consequences for the lives lost - Henshaw stated a list of tragic incidents that recently occurred in the country On Wednesday, March 13, Nigerians experienced tragic loss that was felt all over the country. A three-storey primary school building in Itafaji, Lagos Island had collapsed, taking the lives of some students and others. It was gathered that the building that collapsed had previously been marked for demolition, but it was later cancelled, after owners of the building allegedly met with some government officials to overlook it. Nigerian actress Kate Henshaw who was devastated by the loss of lives like everyone else had taken to social media to express her anger towards the government. Lagos-Island primary shcool building collapse Source: UGC READ ALSO: Little girl lambastes her school after she was sent home for owing school fees The actress, who expressed her anger on Twitter, had noted that no one is ever held accountable for lives lost. PAY ATTENTION: Read best news on Nigeria's #1 news app Henshaw stated that no one bears the consequences either. She had accompanied her words with a list of tragic incidents that occurred recently in the country. READ ALSO: Power Couples Who Are Still Adored By The Public Decades After She wrote: "Another building collapsed..People gutted by fire from a trailer explosion months ago. Lives lost during elections., No one bears the consequence, No one is held accountable..We simply sweep under the carpet and move on.Blood suckers!!" PAY ATTENTION: Get your daily relationship tips and advice on Africa Love Aid group READ ALSO: NAIJ.com upgrades to Legit.ng: a letter from our Editor-in-Chief Bayo Olupohunda In related news, Legit.ng had reported that Nigerian celebrities such as Mercy Aigbe, Ali Baba, Ajoke Silva and others have reacted to the story Lagos-Island building that collapsed. The celebrities took to their Instagram pages to share their reactions. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have upgraded to serve you better Otodo Gbame: I lost four children to the demolition - on Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Just in: Armed bandits abduct renowned Islamic cleric, 5 others in Katsina - Police A renowned Kano-based Quranic reciter, Sheikh Ahmad Sulaiman and five other persons have been kidnapped in Katsina state. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Katsina state Police Command, SP Gambo Isa, confirmed the abduction to newsmen on Friday in Katsina. READ ALSO:APC removes giant broom at Abuja City Gate He, however, said that the police were making efforts to trail the kidnappers and rescue the victims. Isa urged the general public to continue to provide police with information on criminals and their activities with a view to safeguard peoples lives and property. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) gathered that the victims were kidnapped on Thursday night on Sheme-Kankara road on their way back to Kano State after attending an Islamic event in Kebbi state. PAY ATTENTION: Get the Latest Nigerian News Anywhere 24/7. Spend less on the Internet! Meanwhile, Legit.ng had reported the abducted mother-in-law of Governor Aminu Masari of Katsina state, Hajiya Hauwa Yusuf, had finally been released by her abductors after 8 days in captivity. The spokesman of Katsina police command, SP Gambo Isah, said she was released hale and hearty and has since reunited with her family after necessary medical checkups. Prior to her release, the police had said they were following on a lead and trailing a suspect in connection to the abduction. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng Same great journalism, upgraded for better service! Evans the Kidnapper Lands in Kirikiri Prison After First Appearance in Lagos Court | Legit TV. [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | It is spiritual damaging when you self-inflict pleasure than to fornicate - Ghanaian actress claims - Young actress Efia Odo has shared her thoughts on self infliction of pleasure and fornication - The actress claimed that self infliction of pleasure is more spiritual damaging than fornication - Odo compared someone pleasuring his or herself to someone who takes their own life A young Ghanaian actress has raised eyebrows on Twitter after she shared her thoughts on infliction of pleasure and fornication. The young actress identified as Efia Odo had claimed that self infliction of pleasure is worse than fornication. The young actress had shared her thoughts on popular microblogging platform, Twitter, The actress had noted that self infliction of pleasure has more spiritual damage than fornication. According to Odo, even though the two are both sin one carries more weight of spiritual damage than the other. READ ALSO: I am depressed and going to lose everything I worked for since 1994 - Filmmaker Egor Efiok cries out Odo had even gone as far to compare the two to murder and taking one's life. She claimed that self infliction of pleasure is like when someone takes their own life while fornication is like murder. PAY ATTENTION: Read best news on Nigeria's #1 news app READ ALSO: The Amazing Cast Of Game Of Thrones In Then And Now (PHOTOS) In another tweet, Odo further explained that self infliction of pleasure is what someone does to his or herself. She noted that it does not matter how it is done. PAY ATTENTION: Get your daily relationship tips and advice on Africa Love Aid group READ ALSO: NAIJ.com upgrades to Legit.ng: a letter from our Editor-in-Chief Bayo Olupohunda Meanwhile, Legit.ng had earlier reported that Nigerians reacted to the love story of a former adult-film star. It had been reported that the adult-film actress Mia Khalifa is getting married to the man of her dreams. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have upgraded to serve you better Do Tiwa Savage and Wizkid Make a 'Good' Couple? - Nigeria Street Gist - on Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Elections 2019: Okorocha should be hiding his face in shame - Uzodinma - Senator Hope Uzodinma has accused Governo Rochas okoroch of working against the APC - Uzodinma said Okorocha should be hiding his face in shame after the 2019 general elections - Uzodinma also challenged the governor to a popularity test in Imo state The All progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for Imo state in the March 9 election, Senator Hope Uzodinma, has accused challenged Governor Rochas Okorocha to a popularity test in the state. Uzodinma asked Okorocha to walk the street of Owerri with him and see if Imo residents will not stone him (Governor Okorocha) out of anger. Uzodinma made this statement after Okorocha allegedly said the APC lost in Imo state because its candidate, Senato Hope Uzodinma, was not popular enough. According to a report by The Nation, the APC governorship candidate, while reacting to Okorocha's statement said the governor's political career is dead and he is surprised the governor isn't somewhere hiding in shame after he lost his bid to install his son in-law, Uche Nwosu. READ ALSO: Police asked me to implicate Saraki in Offa robbery case - Suspect Uzodinma said: "As a sitting governor he failed to win a senatorial election and got a Returning Officer to announce him winner under duress. I thought by now Okorocha should be hiding his face in shame after he lost his bid to install his son in-law and win his senatorial election. Despite all the billions he spent to stop me and the APC in the state from the results from the polling units I won the election and we will prove it. But Okorocha has lost his deposit and he is finished politically. He is an expert in running people down but God has punished him today. This same man worked against the APC and he has the gut to speak about others. I challenge Okorocha for a walk in the streets of Owerri if Imo people will not stone him. Thank God all his conspiracy against us has ended and he has buried himself politically. I expect by now he should be apologising to the people of Imo State for the crime against God and humanity he committed. I will reclaim my mandate which Okorocha and Ihedioha stole last weekend and then i will have something to tell Okorocha." PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app Meanwhile, Legit.ng earlier reported that Some aggrieved members of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and former aides to Governor Rochas Okorocha, expressed happiness over the defeat of Uche Nwosu by the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Emeka Ihedioha, during the March 9, governorship election in the state. The group urged Okorocha not challenge the outcome of the governorship election to prevent a violent protest by the people of the state against his government. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng: Same great journalism, upgraded for better service! INEC announces Buhari as 2019 election winner, Nigerians react | Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Disability bill: NGO follows up on Buhari's action, launches simplified version of law Following the signing into law of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018 by President Muhammadu Buhari, the Disability Rights Advocacy Center (DRAC) has launched a simplified version of the law. The new version was launched on Thursday, March 14 in Abuja by Anthony Ojukwu, the executive secretary of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), who was represented by Mrs Morenike Akinmutimi, a chief investigative officer at the commission. The event was a sensitization meeting on the Act organised by DRAC with support from CBM-UK. Some stakeholders at the launch of the simplified version of Disabilities (Prohibition) Act by DRAC. Photo credit: Offiong Ita Source: Facebook READ ALSO: NAIJ.com upgrades to Legit.ng: a letter from our Editor-in-Chief Bayo Olupohunda The meeting was aimed at improving the knowledge of the disability community and other stakeholders on the provisions of the Act and effectively target advocacy efforts towards its implementation. The Executive Director of DRAC in her opening remarks explained that it is not enough to sign the Act without implementation but its implementation will not only be a victory to PWDs but to the society at large. DRACs partners and stakeholders; CBM-Nigeria, Fida Nigeria, SOAR Initiative, Women Africa, Deaf Inclusion Program, National Association of Blind, in their goodwill messages reiterated that they will support DRAC on her sensitization campaign and urged the group not to relent in the struggle to ensure that the Act is fully implemented and a commission established. In his statement, Ojukwu commended DRAC for her effort in raising awareness on the act, saying: We commend the renewed efforts of DRAC towards creating awareness and her efforts in improving the knowledge of members of the disability community and stakeholders on the Act. With proper amount of information, when know your right, no one will violate it. We assure you that NHRC will collaborate and support your initiative in creating awareness towards defending the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app DRAC recently hailed President Buhari and the National Assembly for signing the bill into law. DRAC, in a statement sent to Legit.ng on Thursday, January 24, by its executive director, Irene Ojiugo Patrick-Ogbogu, stated that the action of the president, marks a truly important day for the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the disability community in particular. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have updated to serve you better People with disabilities challenge Nigerian ministers | Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Battle of the godfathers in Ogun state By Daud Olatunji In Ogun state, four political parties stood out among the 41 political parties recognised by INEC that participated in the last governorship election . They are; APC ; Allied Peoples Movement ; African Democratic Congress and Peoples Democratic Party. But, the results of the Presidential and national assembly elections gave the APC wide margins ahead of the three other parties. APC won all the three Senatorial seats and six out of nine of House of Representatives seats in the state. Other parties got one House of Representatives seat each. This development triggered the move for what is called rainbow coalition among the parties . Buruji Kashamu Twenty-four hours to the election however, it became clearer that the next governor would be produced by either APC or APM. Both APC and APM therefore engaged in some sort of intriques through allignments with various political parties and individuals. For instance, the APM struck a deal with the leadership of a faction of the PDP in the state whose candidate is the Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial district Buruji Kashamu to adopt its governorship candidate, Adekunle Akinlade as the candidate . The arrangement worked as the factional governorship candidate of the PDP, Oladipupo Adebutu declared support for the APM and directed all his supporters across the state to support Akinlade . Kidnappers release mother-in-law to Katsina governor police As the APM was working with both ADC and a faction of PDP to form an alliance, the APC was also making moves to woo other influential stakeholders. The APCs first big catch was the former governor of the state , Otunba Gbenga Daniel who had directed all his followers to support the APC Governorship candidate ,Dapo Abiodun at the poll . Some chieftains of the PDP and ADC defected to APC and declared their support for Abiodun and all other APC candidates in the governorship and house of assembly elections. Power play Both governorship candidates of the APC and APM have their godfathers who engaged in power play. APM candidate had Governor Amosun and former Minister of Steel Development Sarafa Ishola working for him. Other political gladiators who supported the APM included most Chairmen of local government areas in the state and some leaders of the APC who defected to APM. But the APC enjoyed the support of political heavyweights such as Vice President ,Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; national leader of APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu; former governor of the state, Aremo Olusegun Osoba ; past and present senators and members of House of represrentailtives in the state and many others. Six governorship candidates of different political parties in the state also stepped down for Abiodun ahead of the election in the state while 14 political parties in the state endorsed the APC candidate. All these people ensured victory for the party in their various polling units,wards and local goverments during the poll. The results of the election showed that APC defeated the APM and others with a margin of 19,517 votes . The state Returning Officer, Prof. Idowu Olayinka declared Abiodun winner , having polled the highest number of votes in the Saturdays election. He said Abiodun of APC, won in 12 out of 20 local governments with 241,670 votes to defeat his closest rival, Akinlade who polled 222,153 votes to come second. The returning Officer further said Isiaka of the ADC polled 110,422 votes to come third while Buruji Kashamu of the Peoples Democratic Party who polled 70,290 votes came 4th in the election . The APM did not however wait for the results to be announced and the winner declared before it rejected the results. The APM Campaign Director -General, Sarafa Ishola alleged that the election which began peacefully on Saturday was allegedly hijacked by hoodlums and unidentified unform men during the collation stage. Ishola said the results of the election were manipulated in favour of APC. Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress in Ogun state has tackled the Allied Peoples Movement for rejecting the result of the election before they were announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission. Some governorship candidates including Isiaka, Kashamu and Social Democratic Party candidate,Rotimi Paseda have congratulated the governor-elect. However, Amosun had yet to congratulate the governor-elect. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Kathmandu, Nepal, March 16, 2019: With the governments decision to ban the Netra Bikram Chand (Biplav)-led Communist Party of Nepal (CPN), the former one has intensified its search operation to the latters leaders and cadres from across the country. Meanwhile, Nepal Police have arrested CPNs politburo member Mohan Karki Jivanta from his Lalitpur based rented room on Friday night. However, the Lalitpur district police office has not officialy confirmed about the arrest of Jivanta. He was also arrested earlier, but released from the courts order. The Ministry of Home Affairs has already instructed the security agencies to arrest the leaders and cadres of the party. It is said that the Nepal police have move forward with the plan to arrest CPNs senior leaders including its coordinator Chnda and another senior leader Prakanda. Home | News | General | World Kidney Day: Obaseki mulls compulsory medical test for Edo workers Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has hinted that his administration is working on a plan that will encourage workers in the state to undergo medical test, on an annual basis, to ascertain their health status. Kidney Obaseki who said this on the occasion of the commemoration of World Kidney Day, marked on March 14, each year, noted that early detection of diseases saves costs and lives. He explained that in the organised private sector, annual medical test is a standard practice and it provides current information on workers health condition and status. He added: The only way to know if there are potential problems with your health is through a medical test. If there is a condition that poses a threat, you can spot it through tests and deal with it immediately. This way, you save yourself the agony, costs and other troubles that are associated with late detection of diseases. Obaseki said his administrations ongoing reforms in the health sector, particularly the establishment of Primary Health Care Centres (PHCs) across the state and the health insurance scheme, would eliminate barriers and encumbrances to quality health care services in the state. Our goal is to take quality health care services to the doorsteps of our people irrespective of their location, so that sufferers of kidney disease and other ailments can easily access these centres for care, he added. The governor urged Nigerians in all fields of human endeavours to imbibe the culture of undergoing comprehensive health checks, at least once in a year. The World Kidney Day (WKD) is a joint initiative of the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) and the International Federation of Kidney Foundations (IFKF) and the day is set aside to raise awareness about the importance of the kidneys and how to reduce the frequency and impact of kidney disease and associated health problems worldwide. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), 850 million people worldwide are now estimated to have kidney diseases from various causes. Chronic kidney diseases (CKD) cause at least 2.4 million deaths per year and are now the 6th fastest growing cause of death. Acute kidney injury (AKI), an important driver of CKD, affects over 13 million people worldwide and 85 per cent of these cases are found in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Around 1.7 million people are estimated to die annually because of AKI. Moreover, CKD and AKI are important contributors to increased morbidity and mortality from other diseases and risk factors including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, as well as infections such as HIV, malaria, tuberculosis and hepatitis, the OECD said. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | FGs economic diversification yielding fruits through agric produce Perm Sec Anyigba (Kogi) Mr Sunday Edet-Akpan, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, says Federal Governments efforts at diversifying the economy is yielding results. Economy He said the efforts had resulted in increased foreign exchange from agricultural products. Edet-Akpan said this on Friday in Anyigba, Kogi, while opening a one-day workshop on cashew nuts value chain, entitled: Cashew Nuts Quality Control and Regulations in Nigeria, organised by Federal Produce Inspection Services. He said that data from the foreign trade report of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed that Nigerias total export for the third quarter of 2018 was N4.85 billion. The figure, according to him, represents a 7.8 per cent increase from second quarter of 2018 and a 35.7 per cent increase over third quarter of 2017. This is an indication that Nigerias effort to diversify the economy appears to be yielding results with increased revenue from cashew nuts and other agriculture products export, he said. The permanent secretary said the achievement could only be sustained if stakeholders in the cashew value chain adhered strictly to global best practices in cashew business. This, the permanent secretary said, necessitated the workshop which was expected to evolve workable initiatives, particularly on how best to improve on cashew quality taking into cognisance relevant quality parameters. The quality parameters according to him, include mouldiness, insect damage, slatey, black spots and dampness as well as relevant national and international regulations, application of recommended agro-chemicals and improved enforcement of quality control of agricultural commodities. This will in turn help in complying with the Sanitary and Phyto-Sanitary Measures (SPS) agreement and World Trade Organisation (WTO) regulations and enhance competitiveness of our agro commodities in the international market. The workshop is in line with the Ministrys statutory mandate of enhancing competitiveness of Nigerian agricultural commodities for both domestic and international markets by ensuring that stakeholders along the commodity value chain adhere to minimum quality standard, he said. Edet-Akpan hinted that the programme was also meant to enhance stakeholders capacity on the application of recommended agro-chemicals for cashew without jeopardising its quality for a sustainable cashew export growth. The state commissioner for Agriculture, Mr Kehinde Oloruntoba, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Emmanuel Idenyi, commended the Federal Ministry of Industry for the workshop and assured that a number of measures had been put in place to guarantee quality in production of cashew in the state. FG spends N2.6trn on fuel import in nine months Oloruntoba, however, reiterated that efforts at attaining high quality cashew production ought to commence from planting on the right soil, quality seed, planting, weeding up to harvesting and post-harvesting activities particularly, storage and marketing. (NAN) CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Many injured as bandits, army clash in Kastina By Bashir Bello KATSINA An early hour clash between soldiers, vigilantes and armed bandits on Friday morning have left many feared injured in Katsina State. Army Information gathered by our correspondent from a reliable source who spoke on condition of anonymity said the clash occurred between Shinfida and Gurbin Baure in Jibia local government area of the state. The source said, the incident which led to one soldier and two vigilantes sustaining injuries happened when the bandits ambushed the soldiers and vigilantes. He said the affected victims were taken to the General hospital in Jibia and later transferred to an undisclosed hospital in the state capital, Katsina for medical treatment and attention. When contacted for confirmation, the Spokesperson of the 17 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Lt. Yahaya Mohammed said he is not aware of the incident but promised to find out and get back to our correspondent. Gunmen kill minor, abduct 3 in Katsina CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | School feeding programme expands to more schools in Edo caterers to commence work next week The National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme (NHGSFP) has been expanded to include more schools in Uhunmwode and Orhionmwon local government areas in Edo State, beginning from next week. Training of caterers for the National Home Grown School Feeding Programme (NHGSFP) held at Imaguero College Hall, Benin city on Friday March15, 201 The State Focal Person of the Social Investment Programme in Edo State, Ms. Osayuwamen Aladeshelu, disclosed this while monitoring the distribution of start-up kits to caterers for the commencement of the NHGSFP in the two local government areas in the state. School feeding programme collapses in Akwa Ibom She said over 60 schools will benefit from the NHGSFP in Uhunmwode and Orhionmwon local councils, adding that over 261 caterers have been engaged and will earn daily income from the programme. According to her, We have engaged over 261 caterers to feed the pupils, hoping to encourage more pupils to come back to our public schools across the state. From Monday, over 60 schools will become beneficiaries of the programme in Uhunmwode and Orhionmwon local government areas. Aladeshelu said the programme will boost the local agricultural economy as farmers in the communities will supply the products used in the NHGSFP. The caterers have undergone training and test as they have been taught food hygiene, food handling, food portion and product management. We have monitoring teams that evaluate them and ensure they comply with our standards, she explained. Edo State Programme Manager, NHGSFP, Dr. Mrs. Doris Ayanka-Imalele, said that Governor Godwin Obaseki supported the scheme by ensuring that pupils in primary 4 to 6 are included in the programme, as against that of the Federal Government which takes care of only those from primary 1-3. Mrs. Ayanka-Imalele encouraged the caterers to focus on their job, as a posting letter will be released, indicating which schools they have been assigned before next week. Katsina school feeding: Food vendor accuses govs aide of shady deals CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Buhari poorer than in 2015, says Osinbajo By Johnbosco Agbakwuru Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on has said that President Muhammadu Buhari is probably poorer now than when he became President of Nigeria in 2015. Osinbajo The Vice President stated this on Thursday night when he hosted a dinner in honour of volunteers who canvassed for votes for the All Progressives Congress, APC during the campaigns in the general election, at the Old Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja. According to him, When I looked at his assets declaration form, I was checking it in 2015, I said to him, Mr President, I am so much richer than you, it is an embarrassment. He further said, I am only a soldier, you are a big lawyer so you should have more money than me. I can tell you that he is perhaps; even poorer than he was in 2015 when I saw his declaration of assets form. Osinbajo urged Nigerians to vote for the APC in the March 23 supplementary elections in the six states the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, declared elections inconclusive. He said We are still not done with the elections.On the 23rd of March, we still have some outstanding states and as you know we are re-running in about six states. And all of the efforts we need to put into those six states, we still need to do. We cant afford to slack off and say the job is done; we still have some things to do. Recalling the experiences he had during this years electioneering, Professor Osinbajo said his encounter with Nigerians as he crisscrossed the country, campaigning for votes, showed that Nigerians are so trusting and supportive of their leaders. He said, I think that one of the main characteristics of the Nigerian is how so supportive and trusting many of our people are and they dont ask us for too much. They never really ask for anything that is impossible to do. And thats why, for many of us that went around this country, we realized the tremendous amount of work that there is to do and our capacity to do so much work. What our people need, as we discovered, isnt that much. As a matter of fact, I do not know any nation where the people are so generous no matter how poor they are. Vice President Osinbajo said there was need for the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari to connect more with the people. It just struck me that what we really need to do a lot more is to connect with the people. All the people need is opportunity for us to interact with them. We should have a way by which everybody is involved one way or the other. One of the complaints that people made about our government is that we were not communicating enough and that people did not know what had done. Group hinges Buharis re-election on rapid devt in maritime, others The vice president acknowledged that the diligent communication carried out to put across the APC message in 2015 was not sustained, making the administration lose some ground to the opposition, especially in the social media. He said the new administration would ensure that it makes change in that regard. Osinbajo said that he would take up everyone who has challenged the administration on the issue with a view to getting its communication of programmes and policies better. Earlier, the Deputy Chief of Staff in the State House, Ade Ipaye, said the volunteers worked during the campaigns to demonstrate the integrity and capability of the candidates of the APC. Osinbajo meets Bindo, Abubakar at State House He said the event was organized to appreciate them for the work they did in selling the policies and programmes of the administration to the Nigerian electorate. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Group urges President Buhari to sign digital rights Bill Abuja The African Civil Society for the Information Society (ACSIS), a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to give presidential assent to the Digital Rights and Freedom Bill. President Muhammadu Buhari display a sign for 4+4 to join Legislators who supported his re-election bid as he addressed a joint session of the National Assembly for the the presentation of the 2019 Appropriation Bill at the National Assembly, Abuja. Photo by Abayomi Adeshida 19/12/2018 Mr Peter Akinyemi, ACSIS West Africa Regional Coordinator, made the appeal in an interview in Abuja on Friday. NAN reports that the bill was transmitted to the president on Feb. 5, by the National Assembly. Akinyemi said timely assent to the bill would protect rights of every Nigerian on the internet and strengthen the security within the nations cyber space. According to him, this digital rights and freedom bill will effectively protect the rights of Nigerians on the internet and in the digital environment. It will also attract investments when the investors see that the environment is safe. The bill will provide a comprehensive framework for the advancement, protection and enjoyment of human rights on the internet. US bans DR Congo election chief, top judge over vote conduct This is very necessary in consistence with Nigerias regional and international obligations under various international human rights instruments, he said. Akinyemi also called on the Federal Government to priotise ICT, come up with workable and inclusive framework and policies and strive for more PPP engagements. According to the regional coordinator, this will create enabling environment for the technology sector and ensure that government services are driven in a digital economy. He said ACSIS, which was established in 2003 as a Pan-African civil society organisation, has membership of over 500 around the world. NAN reports that the bill, which has been in the National Assembly since 2016, was passed by both Senate and House of Representatives in 2018. (NAN) CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Tension as Liverpool star misses ahead of Fulham EPL clash - Sadio Mane is doubtful for Liverpools Premier League clash with Fulham after missing Fridays training session - Mane is presently one of Liverpools top performers in recent weeks - The Senegalese has netted six times in his last five games, including a brace against Bayern midweek Sadio Mane is a major injury doubt for Liverpool after missing Fridays session ahead of Sundays Premier League clash against Fulham. The Metro claim the Senegalese star, who is among Liverpools top performers in recent weeks, scoring six times in his last five games, look set to miss the Fulham trip. Mane suffered the latest injury after netting twice during the 3-1 win over Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Wednesday night. READ ALSO: Raheem Sterling says he is hungry for more trophies with Man City this season Interestingly, the Reds return to Premier League action on Sunday against Fulham, who are 13 points adrift of the dreaded drop zone. At the last count, German boss Jurgen Klopp will also miss the services of Jordan Henderson, who also missed training with an ankle injury after 13 minutes in the UCL clash with Bayern Naby Keita despite not making the trip to Germany was also missing in action during the session. Already, Klopp has sounded a note of warning to Liverpool squad members to be cautious against Fulham irrespective of the position on the log. This is a very important game for us. We are focused on our situation, its difficult but we have to see it as an opportunity, Klopp summed up. Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Jurgen Klopp insists he wants to be judged by God and not after trophies he wins at Premier League campaigners Liverpool. According to The Guardian, the German tactician, whose side Liverpool remain on course to cart home the Premier League and the Champions League, when thy trade tackles with Porto in the quarter-finals, is not ready to open talks about winning his trophy this term. Klopp stressed that the Reds performance against Bayern on Wednesday have elevated the club to the level it rightly belong. He waved off the idea that his tenure as Liverpool manager is centered on trophies. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have updated to serve you better. I scored more frequently than Rashidi Yekini - Segun Odegbami | Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Mr Jollof, AY, others, vow to sponsor education of little girl sent home from school for owing fees - A young girl identified as Success has since gone viral for her display of annoyance after being sent home from school - Success was sent home for not paying her school fees and she explained that she preferred being flogged to going home - Nigerian celebs have been touched by her outspokenness and a few of them have promised to sponsor her education till university level In most Nigerian schools, fee defaulters are usually sent home after being flogged and many would wonder the effectiveness of this form of punishment. A young school girl in Warri, Delta state, Success, has gained the attention of Nigerians after she was spotted being outspoken about the perceived injustice. The little girl had been sent home from school for not paying her school fees and she complained at the punishment. Success even revealed that she would rather be flogged rather than be sent home. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android and read the best news about Nigeria Since the video went viral on Instagram, a number of Nigerians have reacted in various ways. Many people found the girls action funny while others were saddened that she would be denied an education over her parents inability to pay her fees. Nigerian celebs react to video of young school girl who was sent home for non-payment of fees Source: Instagram Some Nigerian celebrities were also moved by Successs plight and they took to social media to react. Toke Makinwa took to her Twitter page to explain that no one should be humiliated in that manner for wanting a better life. She tweeted: I am so sick to my stomach watching this. No child should be put under pressure, no child should be humiliated and made to suffer for wanting a better life." Instagram comedian and politician, Mr Jollof, took it a notch higher by promising to grant Success scholarship to university level. He wrote: "Please who can locate this child for me ? I will give her scholarship till she graduates from university Please anyone with useful information should contact me THANK YOU" READ ALSO: Collapsed school building marked for demolition - Lagos lawmaker Another comedian, Ayo Makun, who had successfully reached the child revealed that she reminded him of another young boy, Taju, whose life improved after Nigerian celebs came to his aid. He also advised Nigerians to help little kids around them that are in similar situations. See more reactions from known personalities below: READ ALSO: Personal letter from the Editor-in-Chief of Legit.ng (formerly NAIJ.com) This is wonderful. We are hopeful that little Success will get the education she needs. Meanwhile Legit.ng previously reported that a nursery and primary school located at Itafaji, Lagos Island, collapsed on March 13, 2019. Many residents and pupils were said to have lost their lives. HELLO! NAIJ.com (naija.ng) upgrades to Legit.ng We keep evolving to serve our readers better. Lagos School Collapse: Pregnant woman, children among those affected - Residents | Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Police commissioner Wakili has not been fair to us - Kano APC - The Kano state commissioner for local government affairs, Murtala Sule Garo, said the state police commissioner has been unfair to APC - Garo also challenged the police commissioners claim that the police saved the deputy governor from mob action, insisting the deputy governor was wrongly arrested - The Kano commissioner, therefore, called on the police boss to fair to his party, saying the party is not going to fold its arms The Kano state commissioner for local government affairs, Murtala Sule Garo, who doubles as the secretary of the Ganduje Campaign Organisation, has reportedly accused the state police commissioner, Wakili Muhammad, of being unfair to the state chapter of the All Progressive Congress (APC). Garo alleged that the Kano police commissioner was biased in his actions and unfair to APC, saying we are not going to take it again because he has not been fair to us. According to Leadership, Garo made the statement on Friday, March 15, while speaking with newsmen on his recent detention by the police command for allegedly disrupting the collation of the March 9, 2019 governorship election result in Nasarawa local government area. READ ALSO: Breaking: INEC reveals next plan on Rivers governorship, state assembly elections Garo further alleged that the police commissioner wrongly arrested the deputy governor and later claimed that they saved him from mob action. He said: If he (Wakili) claimed he did not arrest the deputy governor how come that he was placed behind the counter at the police headquarters? He said that he heard news of some hoodlums trying to disrupt the collation of results at the Nasarawa Collation Centre, the night preceding the governorship election and called the deputy governor, Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, because it is his local government, and the council chairman, Lamin Sani and they went to see what was happening at the centre. The commissioner claimed that it was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that disrupted the exercise by tearing the result sheet, which, he said was confirmed to INEC by the returning officer in the area. The commissioner explained that they were harassed by PDP hoodlums even at the police headquarters but nothing was done to stop them. Garo added: We are calling on the Kano state police commissioner to be fair to our people because we will not fold our arms and see him accusing and becoming selective. PAY ATTENTION: Download our mobile app to enjoy the latest news update Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that Kano state police command dismissed rumours on the purported transfer of the commissioner of police in the state. The CP is still in Kano," the commands spokesman, DSP Abdullahi Haruna, said in a statement issued in Kano on Wednesday, March 13. He urged members of the public to ignore the rumour, describing it as the handiwork of mischief makers. Haruna stressed that the command would not be distracted by such rumours, adding that already, police personnel have arrested three persons suspected of buying permanent voter cards (PVCs) from illegible voters in areas earmarked for the rerun governorship election. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng upgrades to serve you better. 2019 elections: Do you still trust INEC to conduct fair elections? - Nigerians speak| Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General Home | News | General | Oil and gas, Nigerias worst misfortune - Ooni of Ife - Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, has said that the discovery of oil and gas has become Nigeria's greatest misfortune - Ogunwusi said that little attention has been given to the country's tourism potential which, according to him, is inexhaustible - He further said that domestic tourism is the future of the country and that is the way things can get better The Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, has said that the greatest misfortune that has ever befallen Nigeria as a nation was the discovery of oil and gas. Ogunwusi said this on Friday, March 15, during a courtesy visit by the National Executive of Nigeria Tour Operators (NATOP) to the Oonis palace in Ile-Ife, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports. READ ALSO: NAIJ.com upgrades to Legit.ng: a letter from our Editor-in-Chief Bayo Olupohunda The executive members were led by Bilikisu Abdul, NATOPs president and accompanied by some journalists. The traditional ruler said that Nigerians had failed to develop the tourism potential in the country due to the discovery of crude oil. He said that Nigerians had also forgotten that every nations tourism potential was inexhaustible compared to its oil and gas that has a life span. As a nation, our biggest problem has been discovering oil; we have different tourism products rich in content which are nature based, tourism is not exhaustible but oil is. It is important for us to propagate domestic tourism, it is the future of the country and that is the way things can get better. We should encourage people to travel within the confines of the nation, we should focus on things nature has blessed us with and take away every negative charge in us. Tourism is something I am very passionate about, I dont joke with it so let us all collectively groom it together, he said. The Ooni of Ife also in his responses to requests made earlier by the leaders of the groups under NATOP assured them of his royal support. He promised to attend the Akwaaba Travel Market in September, 2019 Calabar carnival slated for December and NATOP Annual General Meeting (AGM) in April. He said he was going to channel his resources to the success of the tourism events as each was capable of attracting tourists into the nation. PAY ATTENTION: Get the Latest Nigerian News Anywhere 24/7. Spend less on the Internet! He commended NATOPs president for her doggedness and sense of responsibility to ensuring that the Nigerian tourism sites were well marketed. I will say that you all have my full support for all these programmes tabled before me today, we will work together to take Nigeria to the next level, he said. Meanwhile, Legit.ng reported that Ogunwusi had urged all Yorubas in Kano state to support the re-election bid of Governor Umar Ganduje. The monarch made the call at the Kano Government House while attending the fundraising ceremony for the establishment of the Yoruba Community House. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng: Same great journalism, upgraded for better service! EXCLUSIVE: Be patient with President Buhari, Femi Adesina tells Nigerians | Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General The Sahara is Moroccan and it has always been Moroccan, said Friday in Dakhla, Jorge Verstrynge Rojas, mentor of the extreme left-wing Spanish party, Podemos. The debate around the Sahara is irrelevant and should not exist. The territory of the Sahara is Moroccan and has always been Moroccan, said Jorge Verstrynge Rojas, in a statement to MAP on the sidelines of his participation in the proceedings of the 5th annual session of the Crans Montana Forum, which is held this March 14 to 17 in Dakhla, in the extreme south-west of Morocco. A Sahrawi people does not exist. It is a creation of Algeria and a part of the Spanish left, which is unfortunately still unware of the real situation of this Moroccan territory, said the Spanish political expert and former Secretary General of the Popular Alliance, a federation of conservative political parties founded at the beginning of the democratic transition in Spain. I am very close to the Podemos party, but I must say things as they are, he insisted. Podemos, a small far-leftist party openly supports the Polisarios separatist claims. Jorge Verstrynge Rojas also called on Algeria to deal with its internal political problems instead of interfering in the affairs of Morocco and its Sahara. Morocco is the country that has achieved most progress and economic growth in Africa and is showing considerable solidarity with African countries, said Jorge Verstrynge Rojas, who is also a university professor. In this connection, he pointed out that Moroccos role is fundamental and will be more so in the future, as a strong link for Africas development and a secure partner of Europe. The Spanish experts statements have irked a bit more the Polisario, which is already infuriated by the holding of the fifth Crans Montana Forum in Dakhla, in Western Sahara. Home | News | General | Breaking: APC rejects INECs decision on Bauchi governorship election - The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected INEC's decision to cancel the scheduled supplementary election in Tafawa Balewa local government area - APC said the decision and action taken by the INEC is null and void - The party said the position taken by the electoral body contravenes the provisions of the Electoral Act 2010 as amended The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bauchi has rejected the decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel the scheduled supplementary election in Tafawa Balewa local government area of the state. The party said the decision and action taken by the INEC is null and void. Speaking during a press conference in Bauchi on Saturday, March 16, the Bauchi state APC chairman, Uba Nana, said the position taken by the electoral body contravenes the provisions of the Electoral Act 2010 as amended. Nana said INEC is not empowered to reverse any decision taken at the Collation Center by the Returning Officer appointed for that purpose. He also accused INEC national commissioner and chairman of information and voter education, Festus Okoye, and his committee of denying the party fair hearing on the matter. READ ALSO: Presidency keeps mum on Buharis CSO removal Nana said: Considering the letters and spirit of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999 as amended), and the INEC Guidelines for 2019 General Elections, INEC is not empowered to reverse any decision taken at the Collation Center by the Returning Officer appointed for that purpose." Such decisions can only be reversed by a Court of law, especially when INEC cannot Approbate and Reprobate. The composition of the committee is also questionable as the Committee chairman, Festus Okoye Esq, is a close ally of and ex-personal Solicitor of Hon. Yakubu Dogara of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). No justice can be done by the committee chairman who is interested in the whole issues and the instant circumstances," Nana noted. PAY ATTENTION: Get the Latest Nigerian News Anywhere 24/7. Spend less on the Internet! Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that INEC had said that the collation and announcement of results from the Tafawa Balewa local government area of Bauchi for the governorship election will be completed since the duplicate and original registration area results are available. Okoye revealed that the collation of the said results will take place on Tuesday, March 19. Okoye said:The Commission has taken the following decisions: Approved the resumption and conclusion of the collation of results." NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng: Same great journalism, upgraded for better service! 2019 elections: Do you still trust INEC to conduct fair elections? - Nigerians speak| Legit TV [embedded content] CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: General She's being called the doctor who moved a nation. This week Azza Mashumba, the head of paediatrics at Harare's main-and-in-desperate-straits Parirenyatwa Hospital, made a tearful plea to the health minister for support. "Babies are dying," Mashumba said, tears running down her cheeks. Senior doctors at "Pari" now say that shortages of drugs and vital equipment mean they can only attend to emergencies. That, said, Mashumba, means this: her unit is delivering still births and disabled babies. Her raw emotion captured on video has now been viewed tens of thousands of times. WATCH: Babies are dying [embedded content] Will President Emmerson Mnangagwa finally wake up? His wife Auxillia - who promised to help doctors when they went on strike in December and January - is on a two-week visit to New York to attend a UN gender summit together with other top government officials. It might not be a luxury holiday. So far there are no pics of Auxillia squeezing in a bit of shopping a la Grace Mugabe. But still, Zimbabweans are asking questions. Where are the priorities? More to the point: how many syringes, bandages and bottles of Betadine might have been bought for the cost of sending officials to the Big Apple? Another Pari doctor, Faith Muchemwa, told Health Minister Obadiah Moyo the burns unit she heads doesn't have fresh bandages or antiseptic to treat wounds. Staff have taken to washing and reusing bandages resulting in cross contamination and hospital-acquired infections. "Patients are dying more than ever," she said. What happens now? Zimbabweans are divided. Touched by Dr Mashumba, some on Twitter have called for Zimbabweans who can to donate towards the running costs of hospitals. Others are firmly opposed to that: why should citizens have to do the work of the government when they already pay taxes, they say. Besides, this isn't just a forex shortage problem. The doctors themselves told the health minister that simply changing the way state hospitals are run will go a long way to ending the crisis in the public health system. In particular, the tender system for supplies is laborious and clunky, and eventually costs lives. Bandages can and should be bought locally with local money. But that's not always happening. Clearly worried, the health minister has said changes must be made. State media has just announced that US$1 million has been found to procure vital medical supplies. But Mnangagwa needs to show more sensitivity to win over a sceptical and angry public. His government needs to show it is imposing the same levels of austerity upon itself as it is on the people of Zimbabwe. If not, the tears of Dr Mashumba will be in vain. Oliver Matthews is a freelance reporter based in Zimbabwe. Home | World | Africa | BREAKING: Kasukuwere loses $250,000 luxury home HARARE Regional magistrate Hosea Mujaya has ordered the forfeiture of former Cabinet minister Saviour Kasukuwere's Nyanga holiday home worth $250 000. This follows the once influential politician's continued failure to attend trial over offences allegedly committed during his time in government. The seizure of his home has been done to compel the ex-minister to return to court after he was granted permission some two months ago to seek medical attention in neighbouring South Africa. Ruled Mujaya Friday, "Whereupon after hearing argument, it be and is hereby ordered that immovable property commonly called Sub Division D, Manchester in the District of Umtali-Zimbabwe be forfeited to the state." Kasukuwere is facing four counts of abuse of office charges. His trial was supposed to commence on January 17. Two weeks before his trial, the former Zanu-PF political commissar successfully pleaded for the release of his passport which was by being held by the state as part of bail conditions. Kasukuwere claimed he desperately needed the document to seek treatment abroad. He did not show up since then. This prompted the state to push for forfeiture of his home upon suspicions that the former minister was faking illness, living large while his trial stalls. Kasukuwere's lawyer, Advocate Thembinkosi Magwaliba argued that his client was not in wilful default and challenged the state to provide evidence to prove that he is not sick. The lawyer unsuccessfully argued that his client was having weekly visits to his doctor in South Africa and could not attend court. Prosecuting, Zivanai Macharaga also suggested that Kasukuwere should be given 90 days ultimatum to turn up in court or have his home disposed. "If truly sick which I doubt, he will be compelled to come to court whether sick or not. I know for sure that he is not sick as suggested by the letter from his doctor," the State prosecutor said. Kasukuwere, a former loyalist to ex-President Robert Mugabe is out on RTGS$3 000 bail. The former Mt Darwin North MP, is facing three criminal abuse of office charges after he allegedly favoured former First Lady Grace's sister, Shuvai Gumbochuma with a land deal and another of contravening the Procurement Act. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: Africa Home | World | Africa | Mangudya forecasts RTGS$ equilibrium with US dollar RESERVE Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) governor John Mangudya forecasts an exchange rate equilibrium between the Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) dollar and the United States dollar on the inter-bank trading platform and informal market, riding on concerted efforts towards shoring up confidence in the local currency, boosting productivity and export earnings. Exchange rate equilibrium is a balance between the supply and demand in currencies in competing markets. Although the RBZ liberalised the exchange rate between the local unit and the greenback following the announcement of a raft of monetary policy measures in February, arbitrage remains rife, owing to variances in trading ratios between the RTGS dollar and the greenback on the parallel market and the interbank platform. At the time of going to print, US$1 was fetching as much as RTGS$4 on the black market with the local currency slightly firming up against the greenback at a trading ratio of US$1: RTGS$2,7 on the interbank platform. Market players have, however, cautioned the monetary authorities to manage the value of the local unit and the greenback on the interbank platform taking into account prevailing rates on the parallel market. The monetary policy reforms, announced on February 20, were a departure from the official position that the local unit was trading pari passu with the US dollar, although the country's bond currency was rapidly losing value against the greenback, judging by market trends. Arbitrage is the process of a simultaneous sale and purchase of currencies in two or more foreign exchange markets with the objective of making profits by capitalising on the trading rate differentials in various markets. The newly introduced RTGS dollar, an amalgam of existing electronic balances, bond notes and coins in circulation, is gradually weakening against the greenback following the introduction of the interbank market, although there is still wide room for arbitrage on the alternative market. Mangudya told the Zimbabwe Independent this week that the apex bank's attention is focussed on evening out the exchange rate between the RTGS dollar and the greenback on the interbank trading platform and the alternative market, rather than extinguishing the forex parallel market. "We have said, many times, in all economies there is always the black market for foreign currency," he said. "Over time, there will be equilibrium (between RTGS dollar exchange rate against the US dollar. Our system is only a month old. At some point we will have this equilibrium. Over the next three months there should be equilibrium." He said boosting the country's productive capacity and improving export earnings would help achieve that equilibrium. The central bank chief highlighted that since inception of the interbank platform, the bulk of foreign currency transactions were being processed through the system, with only "small" purchases and sales being done on the parallel market. "We do not expect all transactions to go through the interbank platform. Above 80% to 90% foreign currency transactions are being done over the interbank platform. What we know is that small transactions are being done on the black market," Mangudya said. The RBZ chief this week told the Public Accounts Parliamentary portfolio committee this week that transactions totalling US$12 million were handled on the interbank trading platform during the same period. The success of the interbank trading platform, whose core purpose was to level the exchange rate on the parallel market and the formal banking channel, Mangudya said, was anchored on "building confidence" and fostering transparency in the newly introduced system. "We should ensure that there is transparency on the platform. Currency is about confidence, competitiveness and productivity," he said. "They (banks) have finished configuring their systems. The system is up and running." Mangudya said achieving a stable trading ratio on the alternative market and the interbank trading platform will gain momentum when the tobacco marketing season commences on March 20. Tobacco receipts account for 80% of Zimbabwe's export earnings. Last month, Mangudya told the Independent that the apex bank had introduced the interbank trading platform through announcement of a raft of monetary measures to contain spiralling prices of basic commodities as well as stabilising the exchange rate, which hitherto had sparked an unrelenting currency volatility crisis. It was also introduced to tame runaway inflation, which prominent economist Steve Hanke puts at over 200%, though officials peg it at over 50%. This week, the central bank chief warned Parliament that awarding public sector workers a minimum salary of $3 000, up from an average of $400, would spark inflationary pressures while plunging the country into a major recession. Civil servants have been demanding a wage increase following introduction of a cocktail of fiscal and monetary reforms which saw government abandoning its 1:1 peg of the local unit and the greenback last month and the 150% fuel price hike in January which sparked nationwide protests. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: Africa Home | World | Africa | South Africa to monitor Zimbabwe's economic affairs IN an unprecedented move, Zimbabwe has agreed to allow South Africa - the continent's most developed economy and powerhouse - to sit in official Ministry of Finance meetings to oversee Harare's debt clearance strategy tied to the country's prospects of securing new funding, its reform agenda and economic recovery plan, confidential documents show. Confidential minutes of Tuesday's South Africa-Zimbabwe Bi-national Commission, exclusively obtained by the Zimbabwe Independent, show South Africa will "participate in stakeholders' meetings which Zimbabwe's Finance minister (Mthuli Ncube) holds on a regular basis, during which feedback is provided on the state of the economy and policy measures by government". The move by South Africa to monitor Zimbabwe's economic affairs came after Pretoria demanded to know what was happening on the local economy and to get latest updates if it was to help engage creditors and countries suffocating the struggling Harare, now increasingly becoming a pariah state again. After losing the support of the international community which it had reclaimed following the fall of former president Robert Mugabe in a November 2017 military coup, Zimbabwe has been sent scurrying for refuge and support from its neighbours. So far, Botswana and South Africa have shown willingness to come to its rescue. Mozambique is also helping as shown by a US$25 million facility from its central bank and power supplies. Zimbabwe is unable to get new funding and lines of credit largely because of the arrears, lack of a workable economic recovery plan, slow reforms and political instability, as well as human rights, rule of law, property rights and huge democratic deficit problems. These difficulties are also discouraging foreign direct investment, keeping investors at bay and sometimes triggering capital flight. The minutes also reveal Zimbabwe's national debt has ballooned to US$18 billion from US$17,6 billion as the country sinks deeper into debt and arrears. The debt moved from US$16,9 billion in October last year to US$17,6 billion by end of year and now to US$18 billion; half of that being external obligations. The minutes say Harare owes international financial institutions - the World Bank, African Development Bank and the European Investment Bank (EIB) - US$2,4 billion. It owes the World Bank arrears (US$1,3 billion), AfDB (US$650 million) and EIB (US$450 million). While the updated World Bank figure is US$1,3 billion, AfBD arrears vary between two official figures - US$650 million and US$680 million. The EIB arrears are sometimes officially reported to be US$308 million or US$450 million. Zimbabwe only repaid the International Monetary Fund (IMF) US$107,9 million arrears in November 2016. Presenting an update on the "Lima Debt and Arrears Clearance Strategy" to the IMF/World Bank annual meetings in Bali, Indonesia, between October 8-14 last year, Ncube at the time said the national debt was US$16,9 billion, with external debt accounting for approximately US$7,4 billion. Out of this, approximately US$5,6 billion was in arrears. Zimbabwe also owes the Paris Club US$2,7 billion and non-Paris Club creditors US$700 million. Harare has asked Pretoria for a US$1,2 billion bailout, which is still under discussion. Officials who attended this week's meetings say the move by Pretoria to supervise Harare's arrears clearance plan and the economy, diplomatically couched as an "invitation" in the minutes, shows South Africa's growing leverage over Zimbabwe, hegemonic influence and its determination to ensure its proposed different funding facilities are not squandered by Harare's extravagant rulers. There are several facilities under discussion, which include a renewed standing facility between the two countries' central banks, South African banks' funding of the Zimbabwean private sector, sovereign guarantees and other financial options. The two countries have 45 memoranda of understanding. However, officials who attended this week's summit told the Independent South Africa is agonising over the rescue package due to Zimbabwe's debts and arrears profile, record of reckless spending, lack of meaningful progress on reforms and viable political dialogue. This was despite Ramaphosa and his team noting some progress on Zimbabwe's reform agenda and reconstruction plans. The manoeuvre by Pretoria to supervise Harare's economic affairs, which an official described as "extraordinary", is seen in diplomatic circles as a reflection of South Africa's regional hegemony and Zimbabwe's desperation to clear its arrears, secure new funding and get a financial bailout. "Ramaphosa has taken a firmer position to build closer relations between South Africa and Zimbabwe than his predecessors as a way of trying to reinforce his control over the situation, help out Harare and stabilise the country, while containing huge problems the local crisis is causing south of the Limpopo," one well-briefed official told the Independent. "He really wants to help; his administration realises that South African can only contain problems Zimbabwe is causing in its backyard and in the region by stabilising it and assisting it recover. This is a much more sustainable solution than allowing Zimbabwe to sink, become South Africa's poor 10th province or take advantage of its problems to tap into its labour reservoir, shrinking market and resources. Already Zimbabwe is like a huge South African warehouse, but Ramaphosa wants to help with a sustainable solution. It is both in South Africa and Zimbabwe's national interest." At the end of the Harare meetings, Ramaphosa said: "South Africa stands ready to render support to Zimbabwe within our means in your quest for economic renewal." For his part, Mnangagwa said he was grateful and acknowledged he did not take South African support for granted. While South Africa was unable to provide a rescue package, its Finance minister Tito Mboweni's delegation, the minutes show, agreed to help Zimbabwe to engage key international financial institutions such as the IMF, World Bank and AfDB, as well as the Paris Club and other creditors to deal with the arrears problem and new funding. "Given the importance of investor perceptions in the success of any Paris Club resolutions, the commission agreed that communication with key stakeholders on economic updates and progress by the Zimbabwean government was required," the minutes say. "Additionally, Zimbabwe should share information with South Africa to ensure that both countries speak with one voice when engaging the various stakeholders around the clearance of arrears." Pretoria is also going to help Harare fight mainly United States sanctions which were renewed last week. Ramaphosa has been vocal on sanctions and the need for re-engagement. This week he said Zimbabwe deserves support to get out of the current economic doldrums. "The ministers also agreed that they would work together on re-engagement with international co-operating partners in support of Zimbabwe's economic reform and debt arrears clearance agenda. South Africa will continue lending its voice and support within the various international forums for the clearance of debt arrears," the minutes say. "Zimbabwe is to extend an invitation to South Africa to participate in stakeholder meetings which Zimbabwe's Finance minister holds on a regular basis, during which feedback is provided on the state of the economy and policy measures by the government (of Zimbabwe). Going forward, the two ministers agreed to work together on engagements with international partners to provide support towards the economic reform agenda of Zimbabwe." Besides financial cooperation, the summit agreed on non-financial assistance on issues like debt management; public-private partnerships; budget decentralisation; macro-economic policy frameworks; regional integration and macro-economic convergence at that level and fintech developments to enable banking and financial services. "The minister of Finance and Economic Development for Zimbabwe, Hon Prof M. Ncube and his South African counterpart, Hon T. Mboweni and their delegates, as part of the third session of the BNC, met and exchanged views on the progress regarding the policy reform agenda being undertaken by Zimbabwe," the minutes say. "The main thrust of the reform programme is macroeconomic stabilisation, attracting investment, re-integrating the country into the global community of nations and laying a strong foundation for shared and sustained inclusive growth. The minutes further indicate that Ncube and Mboweni received an update regarding progress on the ongoing discussions for expanding the standing revolving facility arrangement between the two countries' respective central banks. "To this extent, the parties are exploring options of supporting the expansion of the standing facility," the minutes say. South Africa is Zimbabwe's largest trading partner and home to millions of Zimbabwean immigrants who have flocked to the country running away from political instability, economic meltdown and seeking greener pastures. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: Africa Home | World | Africa | Mnangagwa's PR bid a futile exercise, say analysts THE decision by President Emmerson Mnangagwa's government to employ a public relations consultancy firm to lobby for the scrapping of United States sanctions is futile as the real solution lies in implementing political and economic reforms. On February 13, the Zimbabwean government signed a contract with an American consulting firm, Ballard Partners Inc, in a desperate move to charm US President Donald Trump's administration. There were two signatories to the agreement. The government was represented by Foreign Affairs and International Trade minister Sibusiso Moyo. Brian Ballard - a prominent lobbyist in Washington DC and president of Ballard Partners Inc - signed for the consultancy. According to the terms of the contract, the US company will lobby on behalf of the Zimbabwean government and provide advice on communications strategy. Harare will pay an annual fee of US$500 000 for two years. This follows the decision by the American government to extend the sanctions. In a notice issued by Trump last week, the White House said it was extending its restrictions against Mnangagwa's administration by another year. Trump said regardless of Zimbabwe declaring a new dispensation, there were no tangible reforms and the new government continued to pose threats to democracy and US foreign policy. The conditions for the removal of the sanctions include restoration of the rule of law, free and fair elections, equitable, legal and transparent land reform and a military and national police surbodinate to government. The European Union also extended sanctions, demanding the restoration of the rule of law and respect for property rights as conditions for their removal. The extension of the sanctions comes in the wake of the killing of at least 17 people by security forces following protests triggered by a 150% fuel hike by government in mid-January. Thousands were either arrested or severely beaten up in the violent crackdown. Opposition members, among them Harare West member of the National Assembly Joanna Mamombe and Kuwadzana East house legislator Charlton Hwende, have been arrested on treason charges which have drawn widespread condemnation even from the Mnangagwa administration's erstwhile cheerleaders such as the United Kingdom. A civilian was recently arrested for pointing out that he did not like Mnangagwa in a move reminiscent of the Mugabe era. The crackdown has raised serious questions as to whether the government is serious about implementing substantial reforms. The arrests and shootings of civilians in January comes on the heels of the killing of at least six people in August last year after protests over irregularities in the harmonised elections held on July 30 last year. The killings, torture and rape of civilians and the shutting down of the internet during the January crackdown have thrown Mnangagwa's re-engagement drive with Western countries off balance. The impact of sanctions would be minimal if government instituted proper mechanisms of governance, according to economist and the CEO Africa Roundtable chairperson Oswell Binha. "I believe that proper structure mechanisms by government will reduce the sanctions to a bare minimum," Binha opined. "There is need to ensure accountability in the way we handle state activities. We have overplayed the sanctions mantra to the detriment of initiative and creativity as a nation. Sanctions have become the midwife to mediocrity, lack of accountability and general impunity in the state mechanism." He cited the looting of diamonds in Marange which could have contributed to the country's economic revival as an example of the impunity and lack of accountability blighting the country. Binha said that Zimbabwe, in any case, cannot dictate to the US within the broad spectrum of bilateral relations in the community of nations. "If we want to be friends with the Americans, we have to listen to what they want," said Binha. A paper by US diplomats Linda Thomas-Greenfield and Bruce Wharton clearly spells out US scepticism over Harare's commitment to genuine reform. "But other than a different President, Zimbabwe has not changed much as events of January 2019 have shown - grossly disproportionate use of police and military to stop protests and looting - Zimbabwe government/ruling party remains willing to do whatever it takes to remain in power," part of the paper read. "While government talking points on fundamental issues such as rule of law, debt and international co-operation are more rational, measurable reform is elusive the government economic managers continue to look for short-term responses to systemic problems, print fake money and extract hard currency from any place they can find it." They note that Mnangagwa remains beholden to the military that was responsible for elevating him to the presidency after toppling Robert Mugabe. "Hopes that Zimbabwe, through Mnangagwa and his government would be one of those rare examples of a military coup that restores democracy are slowly and methodically being dashed by a military not willing to allow change," the envoys said. Government needs to put its house in order before it cries foul over sanctions, business consultant Simon Kayereka says. "We do not need other countries to clean up our backyard. We need to do it ourselves," Kayereka notes. "Once we clean up the world will see it and the sanctions will be removed." He said government's hiring of a public relations firm to fight sanctions is a tried and failed method. "It seems we never learn. We repeat the same things and expect different results. It does not happen that way," Kayereka said. The hiring of a public relations firm is a well-trodden path. During his leadership tenure, Mugabe hired New African magazine to write a profile on Zimbabwe in a bid to cleanse the government's tainted image. However, it did little to change the global negative perception and the country remained isolated. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: Africa Home | World | Africa | Zimbabwe diamonds to be classified as conflict gems? THE 69th plenary meeting of the United Nations (UN) has resolved to include a discussion on whether Zimbabwean diamonds should be classified as conflict gems during the inter-governmental organisation's 74th general assembly meeting agenda, it emerged this week. The meeting, which brings together heads of state from the UN's 192 member countries, is scheduled to run from September 17-24 this year in New York, United States. The development follows intense lobbying by a grouping of international civil society organisations affiliated to the Kimberly Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) urging the UN to review its definition of conflict diamonds in order to encompass Zimbabwe's gemstones. The move, if it succeeds, will bar Zimbabwe from trading on the formal international market. The lobbying intensified following an incident in which gunmen in military gear overpowered security staff of the government-owned Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company (ZCDC) in Chiadzwa, Manicaland, and held them hostage before escaping with valuable gemstones at midnight on January 15 this year. This was at the height of the deadly uprisings which saw at least 17 people killed as the army and police savagely clamped down on protests over the rising cost of living. Under KPCS rules governing the international trade in the precious mineral, diamond mines must have tight security. The incidents added impetus to calls for the KPCS to widen the definition of conflict diamonds to also cover those being mined in Zimbabwe, which they said are being used to finance President Emmerson Mnangagwa's violent suppression of dissent. So far, the organisations feel the definition of conflict diamonds-that they are gemstones which originate from areas controlled by forces or factions opposed to legitimate and internationally recognised governments, and are used to fund military action in opposition to those governments, or in contravention of the decisions of the UN Security Council-is inadequate. Zimbabwean Centre for Natural Resource Governance (ZCNRG) director Farai Maguwu, who presented the case for Zimbabwe at the plenary meeting in New York, urged the UN to classify Zimbabwean gemstones as conflict diamonds on the basis that they were being used to fund military operations in the country. In a circular to member states last week, the plenary said it noted with concern the continuation of trade in conflict diamonds or blood diamonds on the international market, with serious impact on peace and the safety and security of people in affected countries as well as the systematic and gross human rights violations that have been perpetrated in such conflicts. "The plenary acknowledges with great appreciation the important contribution that the European Union, as Chair of the Kimberley Process in 2018, has made towards curbing the trade in conflict diamonds, and welcomes the selection of India as the Chair of the Kimberley Process for 2019, the Russian Federation as the vice-chair for 2019 and the chair for 2020 and Botswana as the vice-chair for 2020 and the chair for 2021. The plenary requests the chair of the Kimberley Process to submit to the General Assembly at its seventy-fourth session a report on the implementation of the Kimberley Process. The session also decides to include in the provisional agenda of its seventy-fourth session the item entitled: The role of diamonds in fueling conflict," the circular reads. The KPCS was founded when southern African diamond-producing states met in Kimberley, South Africa, in May 2000, to discuss ways of stopping the trade in conflict diamonds and ensure that diamond purchases were not funding violence. The result was an agreement by the UN, European Union, the governments of 74 countries, the World Diamond Council representing the industry and a number of interest groups such as Global Witness. They established the KPCS, whereby members are required to certify that all rough diamond exports are produced through legitimate mining and sales activities and are conflict-free. This is not the first time Zimbabwe finds itself at the centre of a diamond ban lobby. Following the rise in the trade of blood diamonds between 2008 and 2009, Zimbabwe was facing a ban from the KPCS, but a meeting in Namibia in October 2009 recommended against the ban. However, international diamond buyers have had to purchase Zimbabwe's gemstones in secrecy and avoid using the United States dollar in order to by-pass sanctions placed on Zimbabwe by the US. Besides Zimbabwe, other countries which are likely to be affected by the development are Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo and Venezuela. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: Africa A story has been told of how an old man came back to Zimbabwe rich from 'Mzansi' after years of sojourn in the streets of Johannesburg .He started a business in Zim but the business could not be sustained, he had no business acumen to keep his business afloat. The story goes like this , Emmerson went to South Africa as a young man in search of a job.He could not get a job and life became tough in the streets of Johannesburg. He remembered his old skill, mending shoes in Zimbabwe had been something he had been exposed to .He gathered his meagre savings and bought few items to start his business in the streets of Egoli.So , how did he become rich when he arrived back in Zimbabwe? Emmerson narrates his story as a masterstroke of luck when on a quiet day things 'happened ', which would alter the course of his life. Robbers fleeing from a bank after a bank job in Johannesburg threw a bag full of rand notes towards his usual work station. Like a smart man he was, he hid the bag in a bin, hoping the guys would surface later and give him a token of appreciation. The bank robbers never came back for their loot. Emmerson tracked his way back to Zimbabwe with his newly found fortune. He opened a bottle store, a butchery and a small supermarket at his growth point. He would keep telling people his business would expand, instead of expanding the opposite effect happened. It crumbled down, Emmerson had no knowledge of running a business.H e blamed imagined enemies as he would claim they were behind his fall. This story can be related to our current junta leader. He was given the mandate to rule the country by the military. Prior to his entry things were worse, now after his entry, it is worse off.Mnangangwa like his erstwhile namesake has no clue how to turn around Zimbabwe, s economy.He blames "sanctions" but does not look at how the ruling party policies destroyed everything in the country. Mismanagement has been the greatest thing Zanu pf orchestrated. Why should they speak of sanctions issue selectively when it suits them.Chiadzwa diamonds instead of taking back Zimbabwe to glorious days instead became a cash cow for them as they looted the precious stone.If they had managed that well that could have been a sanction buster. Sanctions must go is just a theme for Zanu pf to distract people from the sad reality that it's not sanctions hurting Zimbabwe but corrupt Zanu pf led government. Like the villager who blamed imagined enemies, Mnangagwa blames MDC, sanctions, NGOs for Zimbabwe's woes forgetting to look at four fingers pointing at them. Home | World | Africa | Deployment of Shona civil servants in Matabeleland condemned The government of Zimbabwe is not doing the people of Matabeleland any favour by withdrawing Shona teachers it deployed in Bulawayo primary schools, this should not have happened in the first place. MLO condemns in all strongest terms, the deployment of Shona civil servants in Matabeleland as it is the second phase of subtle Matabeleland genocide. After the tribalist government was caught in the act deploying Shona teachers in Bulawayo primary schools last week, it blamed a computer based teachers recruitment software for the tribally motivated teacher recruitment. What a flimsy and lame excuse! Even a 5 year old primary school kid cannot believe this hogwash. The fact of the matter is the tribalistic government of Zimbabwe has been deploying Shona teachers into Matabeleland infant level schools since 1980. We wonder if it is the same "computer based teachers recruitment software" that is responsible for the previous tribalistic recruitments. We know that Primary and Secondary Education Ministry Secretary Tumisang Thabela was paying lip service when she said the Shona teachers would be withdrawn. MLO would not be surprised to find all those teachers in Matabeleland classrooms in a few months time. MLO is aware that Shona deployments in Matabeleland are not limited to the Ministry of Education Only. In line with the evil Grand Plan of 1979, the government of Zimbabwe has been deploying Shona civil servants in all government departments in Matabeleland. This includes Shona nurses and doctors in Matabeleland hospitals, Shona commissioners and police persons in Matabeleland police stations, Shona officials in Matabeleland Home Affairs offices, Shona wardens and managers in Matabeleland prisons and Shona lawyers, prosecutors and judges in Matabeleland courts to name but just a few. The above institutions are staffed with an alarming 85 to 90 Shona personnel in Matabeleland while those in Mashonaland remain undiluted Shonas only zones. We also note with great interest that 3 months into 2019 this is the second Shona deployment scandal to be exposed in Bulawayo. The first one was at Rainbow Hotel where its General Manager Innocent Kufa hired contractors from Harare and bused in people from Mashonaland to renovate the hotel, claiming Matabeles where not qualified to do construction work. MLO demands that the Shona civil servants deployed in Matabeleland must also be withdrawn with immediate effect or else they will be the collateral damage in the event of breaking hostilities. Again we ask, where are Zimbabwe opposition parties like the MDC Alliance and its partners, the so called paragons of democracy and human rights? Once again the silence is deafening. Chamisa who promised to remove Shona teachers in Matabeleland during the election season is nowhere to be found and has lost his voice. "As soon as we get into power we will solve the problem of teachers being deployed to work in areas where they can not speak the local language. "When we are done with sorting the teachers we will then move to sorting out the nurses and the police who must also be able to speak local languages," Chamisa told a rally in Plumtree on the eve of elections last year. It is very easy to lie but hard to walk the talk especially if one is part of the Shona supremacist system. Perhaps he will regain his voice and reappear in the next vote harvesting season, that is if Matabeleland will still be under Zimbabwe. Lukhulu luyeza luyenyelela! Izenzo kungemazwi! Israel Dube MLO Secretary for Information and Public Affairs CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: Africa The oil price crash of 2014 and the global digitalization and disruption drive coincided in a rather bizarre way to push the oil industry to seek cost cuts through innovation and new technologies. Big Tech was only too pleased to help Big Oil, seeing a new revenue stream in an industry long thought to be of the dinosaur type that was too slow to embrace new ways of doing things. Not anymore. Many oil and gas firms, especially the worlds biggest, are already using data analytics, cloud computing, digital oil fields, digital twins, robotics, automation, predictive maintenance, machine learning, and even AI. The technology giants have seized the opportunity to sell such services to Big Oil, and top managers at Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and ABB Group, to name a few, flocked to this weeks top energy industry event CERAWeek by IHS Markit in Houston to pitch their solutions to a wider audience. A great wave of innovation and technology is transforming the industry and reshaping the energy future, said Daniel Yergin, conference chair and vice chairman of IHS Markit. What happens in tech matters to energy, and what happens to energy matters to tech. The cloud so perfectly fits their boom-and-bust cycles, Bill Vass, vice president of engineering at Amazon Web Services, told CNBC in an interview, referring to the oil industry. Amazons thinking is oil companies still spend money on their own data centers and on those centers operations, even if all prices are low and firms seek savings. All that cap ex, you cant throw it out the window and sell it overnight if the price of oil goes down, Vass told CNBC, noting that most of Amazons customers reach 22-45 percent savings with the cloud. BP, Shell, and Hess are some of Amazons customers. Related: The Billionaires Battling It Out Over Biofuel The other of the Big Tech packMicrosoft and Googleare also signing clients from the oil industry for cloud services, big data analytics, and digital-solutions partnerships aimed at boosting oil production while cutting costs. Oilfield services provider Schlumberger works with Google Cloud on big data, software platforms, high-performance computing (HPC), and on AI to help it interpret seismic and wellbore data. Google Cloud and services are at the core of an Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) platform for oil firm Aker BP developed by Norways Cognite. Last year, Frances supermajor Total signed an agreement with Google Cloud to jointly develop AI solutions to be applied in subsurface data analysis for oil and gas exploration and production. Also last year, Anadarko Petroleum Corporation signed a collaboration agreement with Google Cloud to scale data science models and boost real-time surveillance and monitoring of ongoing drilling, completion, and production operations. The U.S. supermajors Chevron and ExxonMobil work with Microsoft to boost efficiencies and profits. Related: The EIA Cuts U.S. Oil Output Projections Chevron signed in 2017 a seven-year partnership with Microsoft, under which the tech giant is Chevrons primary cloud provider and the companies are working on speeding up the application of analytics and the Internet of Things (IoT). Last month, Exxon forged a digital partnership with Microsoft to use cloud technology to increase oil production and profitability in its key growth area in the U.S., the Permian. According to Exxon, the partnership will make its Permian operations the largest-ever oil and gas acreage to use cloud technology. The application of the cloud technology is expected to generate billions of U.S. dollars in net cash flow for Exxon over the next decade, as data analysis and operational efficiencies improve. The partnership also has the potential to increase Exxons production in the Permian by 50,000 oil-equivalent barrels a day by 2025, the U.S. supermajor says. The tech giants are tapping more and more oil industry customers as a growing number of oil and gas firms realize that their future will be increasingly linked with digitalization and new technologies. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: New natural gas discoveries in the Eastern Mediterranean might be a boon for the European Unions efforts to move away from dependence on Russian energy supplies. In the current complex energy game between Europe and Russia, Italy could play an important role as an entry point for gas deliveries from Egypt, Israel and Cyprus, despite the current Italian governments largely sympathetic stance toward the Kremlin (see EDM, April 10, 2018; June 6, 2018). On February 28, the United States energy giant ExxonMobil announced it discovered natural gas off the southwestern coast of Cyprus (Exxonmobil.com, February 28). The new find adds to other giant offshore gas fields discovered in the region such as Aphrodite and Calypso in Cypriot waters, Israels Leviathan and Tamar, and Egypts Zohr (Iai.it, February 23). By the end of the year, the governments of Italy, Greece, Cyprus and Israel are expected to sign a multilateral agreement to build the EastMed pipeline, which promises to bring a natural gas bonanza to Europe (Edison.it, accessed on March 4). Russia is currently the largest single provider of gas to the EU, and supplies from the Eastern Mediterranean basin are seen as a viable alternative to state-owned Russian gas monopoly Gazprom. Currently, Russia accounts for around 40 percent of the European blocs natural gas imports (Ec.europa.eu, November 19, 2018). (Click to enlarge) The planned EastMed gas corridor is projected to cost $7 billion and is backed by the European Commission. It is designed to initially transport 10 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas per year from offshore reserves in Cyprus and Israel to Greece and, thanks to its connection with the planned Poseidon pipeline, onward to southern Italy. Yet, critics say the project is too expensive and faces serious technical challenges (Cyprus Mail, February 13, 2019; Bruegel.org, May 10, 2017). Furthermore, EastMed is opposed by Turkey, which has territorial disputes with the internationally-recognized Cypriot government in Nicosia, including competing claims to waters around the island. Related: Pakistan Aims To Become A Natural Gas Hotspot For their part, the Egyptians emphasize that the EastMed initiative is still in the feasibility study stagea process that will take a couple of years to be completedand note that Egypt could re-export the regions natural gas to Europe now by using underutilized Egyptian gas liquefaction plants, more quickly and at a lower cost (Cyprus Mail, February 11, 2019). Indeed, Egypt is already moving in that direction. A new conduit will deliver natural gas from Cyprus Aphrodite field to Egyptian territory. Some experts argue the CyprusEgypt pipeline puts the EastMed corridor at risk because the latter needs all Cypriot gas to be commercially feasible (Haaretz, February 27). Interestingly, Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, the kingmaker in Italys fractured coalition government led by the anti-establishment Five Star Movement and the nationalist League party, is a supporter of the EastMed gas pipeline (Startmag, December 13, 2018). Salvinis Russia-friendly League is also endorsing the completion of the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), which the Five Star Movement has tried to block by raising environmental concerns (Tpi.it, February 27, 2019; see EDM, November 5, 2018). TAP is the westernmost section of the EU-supported Southern Gas Corridor (SGC), a planned system of conduits to carry natural gas from the Azerbaijani Shah Deniz gas field to Italy, via Georgia, Turkey, Greece and Albania. TAP is designed to pipe 10 bcm of Azerbaijani gas to Europe by 2020, with the target of doubling supplies in the following years. The EU aims to diversify gas imports away from Russia with the help of EastMed and TAP, in addition to other energy transit projects. In this respect, Italys support for the two gas pipelines could be a source of friction between Salvini and the Kremlin, whose relations are reportedly close. A recent journalistic investigation claims that an aide to Salvini negotiated with the Kremlin to secure Russian funding for the Leagues European Parliament election campaign (LEspresso, February 21). But other issues risk damaging the relationship between the Italian leader and Moscow. Salvini has so far done nothing to cancel or ease economic and financial sanctions that the EU leveled against Russia in response to its annexation of Ukraines Crimea in 2014 and armed intrusion into Donbas. Salvini promised to do so last spring, after his rise to power. The Italian deputy prime minister is also trying to build a political axis in the European Parliament with right-winger Jaros?aw Kaczy?ski, the leader of Polands ruling Law and Justice party, who is a staunch critic of Putins Russia (Corriere della Sera, January 9). Moreover, in sync with the United States, Salvini has expressed support for the interim government of self-declared President Juan Guaido in Venezuela, who is challenging embattled de facto President Nicolas Maduro, an ally of Russia in Latin America (Il Giornale, February 4). Related: The EIA Cuts U.S. Oil Output Projections Moscow has been publicly silent on Salvinis recent moves and declarations, especially as far as natural gas exploitation in the Eastern Mediterranean is concerned. Russian leaders continue to say that their gas is cheaper for European consumers than other sources, and Europe may need new imports by 2030 because of falling production at home (RT, February 28, 2019; TASS, August 2, 2018). Nevertheless, Italy wants to diversify gas suppliers and become a gas hub in southern Europe, be it through the EastMed pipeline or Egypts shipments of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Italian state-owned oil and gas producer ENI, the leading company in the exploitation of the Zohr supergiant gas field, has already advanced the idea of turning Egypt into a hub to pipe local, Israeli and Cypriot gas to Europe (see EDM, April 10, 2018). The Kremlin has had to walk a fine line with regard to ENIs strategies in the region, given that Russias Rosneft has a 30 percent stake in the Shorouk concession, where the Zohr gas field is located. As Italy seeks to raise its energy profile, it is also aligned with the US and some countries in Central Eastern Europe against Nord Stream Two, the pipeline project designed to double the preexisting natural gas conduit that runs under the Baltic Sea and links Russia to Germany (Europa Today, February 4, 2019; see EDM, November 5, 2018). The capacity of Nord Stream One stands at 55 bcm, and Russias state-run gas monopoly Gazprom wants to complete the parallel Nord Stream Two by the end of 2019. Salvini has built his political brand on the promise to protect Italys national interest. If this collides with Putins geopolitical plans, the leader of the League will not hesitate to go against his Russian friend. By The Jamestown Foundation More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Canadas federal government is funding three clean technology projects in Albertas oil and gas industry, allocating resources to two companies to help them develop processes to curb emissions at their operations. On Thursday, Canadas Minister of Natural Resources Amarjeet Sohi announced federal investments of a total of US$54.2 million (C$72.3 million) to Alberta companies Canadian Natural Resources Limited and Titanium Corporation Inc for projects designed to reduce the emissions from oil sands operations. The federal government will fund two projects of Canadian Natural Resources. The first project is for developing an in-pit extraction process that separates oil sands ore into solids, bitumen, and water at the Horizon Oil Sands mine site, thus reducing the number of diesel trucks and the amount of power needed. The other funding to Canadian Natural Resources is for a new steam turbine generator technology that will help produce power for its facilities at the Athabasca Oil Sands Project while reducing emissions. Titanium Corporation will get funding for technology designed to remediate oil sands tailings at Canadian Naturals Horizon Oil Sands site. Canadian Natural, and Canadas oil and natural gas sector, recognize the need to reduce GHG emission intensities, and we have been able to leverage technology and Canadian ingenuity to deliver significant results, Canadian Naturals President Tim McKay said in a statement. While the federal government is funding clean technology at Albertas oil sands, Alberta and its oil producers continue their fight for improved market access for their productnew pipelines that would increase the takeaway capacity of Albertas oil. Also on Thursday, the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP) said in a new report that Canadas abundance of natural resources can help the country to achieve significant domestic and global benefits: if we resolve current market access challenges. The shortage of oil pipelines and liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure are crippling our ability to compete for global market share, CAPP said. Global energy demand is growing, CAPP president and CEO Tim McMillan said. However, Canada is losing the race to claim a piece of the high-growth market overseas. Without new pipelines, Canadas oil and natural gas industry cant compete for a share of the global market, McMillan noted. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Royal Dutch Shell has set its first-ever short-term goals to cut the carbon footprint of its operations and product sales as the oil and gas industry is under intense investor and shareholder pressure to address to climate change. In its annual report published on Thursday, Shell said that in early 2019, it had decided to set a Net Carbon Footprint target for 2021 to lower its carbon footprint by 2-3 percent compared to the 2016 Net Carbon Footprint of 79 grams of CO2 equivalent per megajoule. Shells approach to the Net Carbon Footprint targets includes not only emissions directly from Shell operations, such as extraction, transportation, and processing of raw materials, and transportation of products, but also emissions generated by third parties who supply energy to Shell for production, and Shells customers emissions from their use of the energy products that the company sells. In December last year, in an industry first, Shell said that it plans to set short-term targets for reducing the net carbon footprint of the energy products it sells, and to link those targets with executive remuneration. Building public trust this year also involved strengthening our public commitment to the Paris Agreement on climate change. In our joint statement with institutional investors on behalf of Climate Action 100+, we have committed to operationalise our ambition of around 50% Net Carbon Footprint reduction by 2050, through the setting of short-term targets which will be linked to executive remuneration, Shell said in its annual report. Related: Is A Crisis Looming For Canadian Oil? Shell are showing progress in answering the call from investors with $33 trillion in assets to make their business consistent with the goals of the Paris Agreement, said Stephanie Pfeifer, a member of the global Climate Action 100+ steering committee and CEO at the Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change (IIGCC). Setting the first interim target early and linking it to executive remuneration demonstrates commitment to deliver on the agreement reached with investors as part of Climate Action 100+. We look forward to further steps from both Shell and others in the sector, Pfeifer said. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: As long as you click the mouse, you can shop around easily the rapid rise of e-commerce website becomes convenient for people to search the internet. With the development of e-commerce construction machinery online shopping has stepped into nirvana. Eleven which is called the most traditional engineering machinery industry (ore beneficiation) have entered the Internet was. Rapid development of the engineering machinery industry in recent years, according to the China Construction Machinery Industry Association data, the Chinese construction machinery ownership is 4.5 million units, construction machinery operators need more than this figure, early in the units engaged in construction machinery driving personnel after 80, 90 are replaced, and this crowd, precisely with the opening up of China s Internet growth together. According to the Internet Society of China and Taobao and many other trading site data, 80, 90, has become the main population of online shopping. Accompanied by the emergence of the Internet, many companies actively or passively set up their own site, and some even joined the online purchasing capabilities. But for many skeptical of the construction machinery industry e-commerce, especially in the production of some machine, dealers, they often think, engineering machinery products are covered by the limit of high prices, long sales cycle, and is not suitable for Internet sales, or that of little significance for e-commerce enterprises. Although this year s construction machinery market is weak, the whole market has shown a trend of depression. After market demand is still not reduced. Protection of housing construction, water conservancy construction, urbanization, construction of rail transit and other fields is still the Government attaches importance. The project will be relatively stable market, the demand for accessories, there will be. It is understood that to maintain growth momentum in the aftermarket is still, do a lot of brakes, chains, wheels, reducer, tracks, such as the business is still good business. Construction machinery enterprises need to find a better professional platform to achieve the aspirations of the online transactions. Recently, I found a website doing such a thing. Chinese construction machinery e-commerce and professional interactive marketing platform construction machinery online (cmol.com) first introduced the concept of service centers in the peer site, through a new service concept, the establishment of the manufacturers, dealers, parts makers, users, research institutions and other third-party platform for the sharing of resources upstream and downstream enterprises in construction machinery industry. Industry chain of manufacturers in the construction machinery industry, as a link to the manufacturers, dealers, parts suppliers, maintenance service providers, users and relevant financial units to help businesses reach online transactions for the subject quickly. Construction machinery service center perfects itself in every respect. The newspapers mentioned Ray Kurzweil not as a source, but as a related topic. Friendly web interface is superb; the latest build of the search function, with a super-business opportunities information retrieval, allows users to very easily, you can look for product information query; online business inquiry real - time exchange, communication barrier; and VERISIGN security certification in the industry the first to adopt the W3C standards and IP directional technology, improved e-commerce support system and information security system; to prevent online fraud to achieve the management of certification business, business information must be true, false, deceptive information no place to go. 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... " " The man photographed in tactical gear and carrying zip-tie handcuffs on the Senate floor Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021 was identified as retired Air Force Lt. Col. Larry Rendall Brock Jr. Brock was identified thanks to the efforts of The New Yorker and John Scott-Railton, a senior researcher at Citizen Lab in the University of Torontos Munk School. Win McNamee/Getty Images In the stunned aftermath of the insurrection that occurred at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, people rushed to Twitter and Facebook to match names with the faces of rioters who stormed the floor of the Senate, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi's office and the National Statuary Hall. Many of the rioters posted videos of themselves online; others live-streamed the event in which five people were killed. The FBI also posted multiple Tweets asking for help from the public to identify individuals who unlawfully entered the U.S. Capitol. The public responded. The New York Times reported on Jan. 11, 2021, that the FBI had received more than 40,000 tips. Advertisement What Is Doxxing? The tactic of publicly shaming someone by posting their personal information online is called "doxxing," an internet-ism that means publishing private, damaging or otherwise sensitive "docs" about someone in order to bring the wrath of the internet down upon them. Doxxing is one of those trolling tactics that's been used to harass and threaten women who dare to call the gaming industry "sexist" (see Gamergate) and to intimidate journalists who dare to do their jobs. But doxxing has also emerged as a tool of progressive activists, like the anti-fascist crusaders who took to Twitter after the Charlottesville tragedy to name and shame white supremacists who "forgot to wear their hoods" and exposed themselves publicly as racists. One man identified as Cole White from California lost his job at a hot dog restaurant due to his involvement in the white nationalist march in Charlottesville. The father of Peter Tefft, another Charlottesville marcher caught on film, was so disgusted by his son's behavior that he wrote a letter to the local paper repudiating his son's beliefs, saying that he's "not welcome at our family gatherings any longer." Many of the U.S. Capitol rioters and protesters also lost their jobs after their identities were made aware to their employers. A Maryland man who worked for Navistar Direct Marketing was fired after he was seen in the U.S. Capitol wearing a Navistar company badge on Jan. 6, 2021. Chicago real estate company @properties also fired an agent who posted on social media that she was at the Capitol. These are just two examples of many. White supremacists and neo-Nazis seem like fair game for doxxing, since most people find their beliefs and actions deplorable, but that doesn't mean that outing Nazis on the internet doesn't have collateral damage. In that same letter from Peter Tefft's dad, he writes that "[Peter's] hateful opinions are bringing hateful rhetoric to his siblings, cousins, nieces and nephews as well as his parents. Why must we be guilty by association?" And in the rush to identify Charlottesville marchers through social media crowdsourcing, at least one person was wrongly identified, with immediate negative consequences. Advertisement How Hard Is It to ID Someone? Criminologist and sociologist Stanislav Vysotsky of the University of Wisconsin, Whitewater told us in 2018 that anti-fascist activists have been using the tactics of doxxing for decades early campaigns would march to a white supremacist's house and distribute flyers to his neighbors but that something is getting lost in these recent crowdsourcing efforts. "When anti-fascist groups engage in these kinds of doxxing processes," Vysotsky said of distributing flyers at someone's house, "they take great pains to verify. There are multiple pieces of verification. With crowdsourcing, sometimes you don't get level of verification." On social media, the level of verification can be one person mentioning, "I think I went to high school with that guy," or "He looks like this other pic of a white supremacist that I found on a wiki." In several cases, those claims turned out to be wrong and were quickly corrected by others. Vysotsky says that's actually one of the potential benefits of crowdsourcing, that the sheer numbers of people investigating could result in accurate information surfacing much faster than if a handful of people are searching around blindly. The downside being that if enough people jump on the wrong information, innocent people get harassed almost instantaneously by the mob, and sometimes that false information lingers because nothing ever really goes away on the internet. It's not as easy to ID someone as you might think. Studies have shown that 10 to 30 percent of the time people get it wrong when asked to determine whether two photos are of the same person. Some critics say that publishing anyone's personal information online for the express purpose of harassment is bad, even if that person spouts hate speech. But Vysotsky who studies social movements, says the tactics that activists use are themselves neutral. They're simply tools that can be used for bad or good, depending on which side you stand. "Anti-fascists would say that doxxing in the service of preventing bias crimes, violence, potentially forms of terrorism, is a tool being used for good," says Vysotsky, who studies anti-fascist movements. "Doxxing in the service of power, sexism, racism, of intimidating people working for progressive change, that's a fascist tool." As expected, both neo-Nazis and anti-fascists complain when doxxing is used against them, and celebrate when it's deployed against their enemies. Vyotsky says that "outing" people via doxxing increases the "cost of participation" in a protest march. "If you're looking for work, if you having to move, you don't have time to be organizing, you don't have time to be participating in the movement. It makes you start to ask, is this worth it?" he says. Now That's Cool This online test allows you to check out your facial recognition skills. Advertisement Originally Published: Aug 17, 2017 " " Former president Donald Trump is the only U.S. president in history to be impeached twice. Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call/Getty Images At around 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 16, 1868, Senator Edmund Ross of Kansas sat at his desk in the Senate chamber shredding paper into smaller and smaller pieces until his lap and feet were covered in scraps of white. The stress must have been getting to him. One by one, all around him the voices of his fellow senators were answering a single question from Chief Justice Salmon Portland Chase: "Mr. Senator, how say you?" On that day, the senators of the United States were voting, for the first time in the nation's history, whether to impeach their commander in chief President Andrew Johnson. Johnson had been Abraham Lincoln's vice president and moved into the Oval Office after Lincoln's assassination in April 1865. By December of that year, the new president's Republican opponents in Congress were beginning to rail against him, and a year later they would begin the first in a series of attempts to impeach him. Advertisement In the wake of the Civil War, U.S. Representative Thaddeus Stevens and his followers felt that Johnson had failed to stop the brutalization of freed slaves by their previous owners, and was likewise ceding control of the Southern states to former Confederates. Now at last, Congress had the opportunity to do something about the situation. To impeach a president requires a so-called "super-majority," or two-thirds, of the Senate vote. The problem was that in the time leading up to the impeachment vote, corruption, backroom deals and bribery had been rife. As a result, it was, by this time known exactly how all the senators were going to vote. All, that is, except for Edmund Ross of Kansas. Ross was the lynch pin, the fulcrum, the straw that could break the proverbial camel's back. Hence the anxious paper-shredding routine as he waited for his name to be called. Senator after senator voted exactly as expected. Finally, the chief justice said the words everyone was waiting to hear, "Mr. Senator Ross, how say you?" Edmund Ross rose from his chair, his face as white as the shredded paper falling from his lap. He felt, as he would later say, as though he were facing death. Nevertheless, he quickly and clearly declared, "Not guilty." A sigh went through the chamber, whether of disappointment or relief, it was difficult to say. Although the voting continued, everybody now knew what the final result would be: The first effort to impeach a U.S. president had failed by a single vote [source: Stewart]. THE National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has removed over 650,000 campaign materials all over Metro Manila.NCRPO Director Major General Guillermo Eleazar urged the candidates to also do their FOURTEEN barangays in Mandaue City were identified by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) as on priority during the May 2019 midterm elections More attention will be given to the 14 barangays due to their large number of voters and polling precincts, among others, said Senior Supt. Julian Entoma, Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO) director. The 14 barangays are Paknaan, Labogon, Subangdaku, Canduman, Banilad, Umapad, Looc, Maguikay, Tipolo, Tabok, Pagsabungan, Cabancalan, Alang-Alang and Casuntingan. The barangays were identified during a half-day workshop organized by Comelec and participated by the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Entoma said more personnel will be deployed in the 14 barangays because of the huge number of voters expected to vote in those areas on May 13. Aside from the large voter population and high precinct count, some of the barangays were chosen due to the presence of polling centers with lots of entrances and exits, such as the Mandaue Central School in which voters from four barangays are expected to flock there. The 14 priority barangays have 11 public schools serving as polling centers. Included in our security preparation is how do we manage supporters of candidates that are expected to be rowdy. We are also expected to increase our deployment in polling centers with high number of voters. For polling centers with more than 5,000 voters, two police officers are not enough, Entoma told Superbalita Cebu. Aside from the voters, Entoma said they are also addressing other election-related problems, such as handling the ballot boxes during and after the canvassing process and ensuring that security is tight during those times. Quick Response Teams are also expected to be deployed in some areas during the elections, Entoma said.FROM FMD OF SUPERBALITA CEBU / JKV MALACANANG on Saturday, March 16, offered prayers and sympathies to New Zealand, following the mass shootings at two mosques in central Christchurch that resulted in the death of 49 people.In a statement, MALACANANG on Saturday, March 16, offered prayers and sympathies to New Zealand, following the mass shootings at two mosques in central Christchurch that resulted in the death of 49 people. In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the Philippines, along with all peace-loving nations and peoples around the world, condemned "in the strongest and in no uncertain terms" the "reprehensible" act that intends to sow "terror and fear." "The Government and the people of the Philippines stand with New Zealand during this time of grief and outrage," Panelo said. "This reprehensible act has no place in a civilized world. The Philippines rebukes all efforts to sow terror and fear between and among peoples," he added. According to reports, at least 49 people were killed and dozens others sustained injuries in what appears to be a carefully planned and unprecedented mass shootings at two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch on Friday, March 15. The attack, which was streamed live on social media giant Facebook, was carried out when mosques were full of worshippers. A 28-year-old man identified as Brenton Harrison Tarrant was charged with murder and was expected to appear in a Christchurch courtroom on Saturday morning. The Duterte government condoled with the victims of the assault in the places of worship, Panelo said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this tragic incident, and we pray for strength and speedy recovery of those who were injured," the Palace official said. Panelo noted that the Department of Foreign Affairs has already been instructed to closely monitor the situation and check the condition of Filipino nationals residing in Christchurch. Following the mass shootings in New Zealand, Panelo expressed hope that the "unified action" among nations to stop terrorism and other unlawful acts would prevail. "There has to be a universal unified action as well as a conscious and determined effort to neutralise and demolish any attempt at destabilising the order in societies and the tranquility of their citizens and secure the safety of lives and properties of the inhabitants of the globe," he said. "We cannot allow ourselves to be held hostage by fear and intimidation sown by terrorists and psychologically challenged persons and live in an endangered environment. With unity in action against the enemies of the states, we shall prevail," he added. (SunStar Philippines) AS mesmerizing oriental music cut through the ambient buzz of people bustling around the halls of SM Seaside City (SMSS) Cebu and a semi-sweet scent wafted in the air coming from somewhere no one could AS mesmerizing oriental music cut through the ambient buzz of people bustling around the halls of SM Seaside City (SMSS) Cebu and a semi-sweet scent wafted in the air coming from somewhere no one could quite place, the gentle call of something big happening beckoned people to trickle in the Mountain Wing on the weekend of March 8 to 10. A first in the Philippines, the Sakura Festival (organized by SM Seaside in collaboration with the Japanese Association of Cebu) was a place for locals to learn about Japanese culture and taste authentic Japanese flavors through workshops and demonstrations. Under one roof, traditional Japanese arts and crafts and Japanese Pop Culture gathered together. Demonstrations were done by a mix of Japanese traditional experts who have either lived in the Philippines for a number of years or flew in from different parts of Japan. SMSS regional operations manager Marylou Neri, who conceptualized the idea, said the malls successful collaboration with Japan Association of Cebu (JAC) president Ms. Kinue Sakurai and Mr. Katsuhiko Sakiyama of Caohagan Island for SM Seasides Independence Day celebration was what inspired the mall to come up with another event that would highlight Filipino-Japanese ties. It was an ambitious activity and they (JAC) said that it has never been done anywhere else in the country, much less Cebu. But they took on the challenge and jump-started the whole project, she said. In his speech, the president of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce in Cebu, Mr. Kosaka said: I am pleasantly surprised and overwhelmed with happiness to see this kind of event in Seaside--where deep-rooted Japanese culture is being showcased. Even in Japan, it is hard to put it all together. For about seven months, the team prepared for the huge undertakingtapping the support of Ms. Tokie Kikuchi & the Focolare Group in Cebu, Cebu Bonsai Society, the Ikebana International Cebu Chapter 145, Oj Hofer, Ms. Junko Uchiyama & Mr. Junichi Kanda, Mr. Katsuhiko Sakiyama, Cebu Cosplayers Guild, Cebu Mecha Society, Beas Diecast Society and the Cebu Authentic Figure and Enthusiasts (CAFE) for the Japanese Pop Culture collectibles. Such tradition and authenticityit was something quite impossible to think about that first, but with the help of our friends from the Japanese Association of Cebu and the Japan Association of Confectionery Youth Group who flew in 50 Japanese for this event and getting the support of our local groupswe were able to make something impossible possible. It was our goal to deliver something extraordinary to the Cebuano community and events like these are something that we hope to continue to do for everyone to enjoy at SM Seaside, said Anther Infante, marketing manager of SMSS. Vocal government critic Zuzana Caputova clinched pole position in round one of Slovakia's weekend presidential election, according to near complete results of the first ballot since an investigative journalist's murder dealt a blow to the political establishment. The environmental lawyer secured 40.55 percent of the ballot after 99.88 percent of votes were counted, while runner-up European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic -- the ruling Smer-SD party's candidate -- garnered 18.66 percent, the Slovak Statistics Office said early Sunday. Caputova is on course to become Slovakia's first female president, as a new opinion poll by the Focus pollster said she would win the run-off vote against 52-year-old career diplomat Sefcovic by a landslide on March 30. The 45-year-old liberal thanked her supporters in the race for the largely ceremonial post, saying "Thank you" in Slovak as well as in the languages of the country's largest minority groups. Running on a slogan of "Stand up to evil," Caputova had appealed to voters tired of the country's main political players and vowed to restore public trust in the state. She was among tens of thousands of protesters who took to the streets after last year's killing of journalist Jan Kuciak, which shocked the nation and raised fears about media freedom and political corruption. They were the largest anti-government protests since communist times in the central European country of 5.4 million people, which spent decades behind the Iron Curtain before joining the European Union, the eurozone and NATO. "It turns out that we want our country to be decent and fair. Zuzana Caputova is exactly the person who can pull Slovakia out of the crisis," outgoing President Andrej Kiska said in a Facebook video message after the results rolled in. "Slovakia is on the right track," added the millionaire who backed Caputova. The president ratifies international treaties, appoints top judges, is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces and can also veto laws passed by parliament. Turnout was just under 50 percent. The voting did not go completely without a hitch, as a man ran out with the ballot box at the polling station in the eastern village of Medzany and threw it to the ground, scattering its contents on the street. Caputova, a deputy head of the non-parliamentary Progressive Slovakia party, cast her ballot in her southern city of Pezinok. "Slovakia is at a crossroads in terms of regaining the public's trust," she said, flanked by her daughters and partner. - 'Symbol of change' - Journalist Kuciak and his fiancee were gunned down in February 2018 just as he was about to publish a story on alleged ties between Slovak politicians and the Italian mafia. The double murder and Kuciak's last explosive report, published posthumously, plunged the country into crisis. Then prime minister Robert Fico was forced to resign but remains the leader of the populist-left Smer-SD and is a close ally of current premier Peter Pellegrini. Four people were charged with the killings. On Thursday, prosecutors said they had also charged multi-millionaire businessman Marian Kocner with ordering the murder of Kuciak, who had been investigating his business activities at the time. Kocner is believed to have ties to Smer-SD. "With this announcement, the authorities may have wanted to show just how effectively the state functions so it could help Sefcovic gain some points," Bratislava-based analyst Grigorij Meseznikov told AFP. "On the other hand, this could also be a vindication for Caputova, as she is the symbol of change." On the streets of Bratislava, several voters said they were impressed by Caputova's fresh approach. Project manager Nora Bajnokova, 33, said she backed Caputova because "she is a woman, a mother, a lawyer and not involved in active politics", while 31-year-old voter Ivan Jankovic called her "courageous and open-minded". But for 41-year-old security guard Oto, who did not give his last name, only Sefcovic was "serious" enough to be presidential material. "Sefcovic is an experienced multilingual diplomat who can immediately represent Slovakia abroad," said another voter, Milan Perunko, 54. A sports enthusiast and European Commission vice-president since 2014, Sefcovic campaigned on the slogan "Always for Slovakia". Official results will be announced at noon on Sunday. Dozens of graves were being dug in a Christchurch cemetery on Monday for the 50 worshippers killed in two mosque attacks, as families clamoured for the return of their dead. Coroners said they hoped to let grieving relatives fulfil Islamic burial customs soon, but insisted they had to move carefully through their investigation into the horrific multiple murder. As New Zealand grappled to come to terms with the slaughter -- the worst attack on Muslims in a Western country in modern times -- tales of heroism, suffering and incredible grace emerged. Farid Ahmad, whose 44-year-old wife Husna was killed as she rushed back into a mosque to rescue him, refused to harbour hatred toward the alleged gunman, Australian-born, self-avowed white nationalist, Brenton Tarrant. "I would say to him 'I love him as a person'," Ahmad, who uses a wheelchair, told AFP. Asked if he forgave the 28-year-old suspect, who is being held in custody after appearing in court, he said: "Of course. The best thing is forgiveness, generosity, loving and caring, positivity." Husna Ahmad was among four women believed to have been killed by Tarrant, who documented his radicalisation and two years of preparations in a lengthy, meandering and conspiracy-filled far-right "manifesto". Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who was holding a cabinet meeting Monday to address gun laws and intelligence failures, was among about 30 officials who received the document ahead of the attacks. "It did not include a location, it did not include specific details," she said, adding that it was sent nine minutes before the rampage and handed to security services within two minutes. Around Christchurch, New Zealand and the world there have been vigils, prayers, memorials and messages of solidarity. An emotion-filled haka -- the Maori war dance -- was performed by a New Zealand biker gang to honour the Christchurch dead. The country remained on high alert, with police on Sunday briefly closing an airport in the southern city of Dunedin -- where Tarrant had lived -- after an unidentified package was spotted on the airfield. The airport re-opened a few hours later. In Australia, counter-terrorism police searched two homes early Monday, both near the town of Grafton where Tarrant grew up. "The primary aim of the activity is to formally obtain material that may assist New Zealand police in their ongoing investigation," a police statement said. - Generations - Islamic custom dictates that the dead should be buried within 24 hours, but strained authorities -- desperate to make sure no mistakes are made or the complex investigation harmed -- said a quick process was difficult. "All of the deceased have had a CT scan, their fingerprints are taken, the property they were wearing or had with them is removed," said Chief Coroner Deborah Marshall, adding that dental impressions were taken and post-mortems performed. Ardern said she expected all the dead would have been returned to their families by Wednesday. An AFP reporter early Monday saw workers and excavators preparing dozens of graves in Christchurch cemetery, though it was unclear when the funerals might start. "It's a massacre, what else do they need to know?," said school principal Sheikh Amjad Ali, expressing frustration over the wait for loved ones' remains. The dead from Friday's attack span generations, aged between three and 77, according to a list circulated among relatives. Some victims came from the neighbourhood, others from as far afield as Egypt. At least two of the dead came from the same family -- a father and son. Delhi said Sunday that five of its nationals were killed, while Pakistan said nine of its citizens were among the dead, including one man who died trying to rush Tarrant. - Pre-schooler fights for life - Authorities said 34 people remained in hospital. Among those fighting for their lives is four-year-old Alin Alsati. The pre-schooler was praying alongside her father Wasseim at the Al Noor mosque when she was shot at least three times. Her father, who was also shot, recently emigrated to New Zealand from Jordan. The number of dead and injured could have been higher, were it not for people such as Afghan refugee Abdul Aziz. Aziz was at the Linwood mosque with his four sons when he rushed the attacker armed with the only weapon he could find -- a hand-held credit card machine. He then picked up an empty shotgun discarded by the gunman and shouted "come on here" in an effort to draw him away from his sons and the other worshippers. "I just wanted to save as much lives as I could, even if I lose my life," he told AFP. - Gun policy on agenda - The mosque attacks have shaken this usually peaceful country, which prides itself on welcoming refugees fleeing violence or persecution. Ardern has said she would use the cabinet meeting to press for a ban on semi-automatic weapons of the type used by Tarrant. A series of reform attempts in recent years have failed. Ardern also wants answers from social media giants over the livestreaming of the carnage. Facebook said it had removed 1.5 million videos of the attack around the world in the first 24 hours. The crash of Flight ET 302 minutes into its flight to Nairobi on March 10 killed all onboard and caused the worldwide grounding of the Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft model involved in the disaster Identifying the cause of the deadly Ethiopian Airlines crash that killed 157 people and caused the worldwide grounding of a brand-new Boeing aircraft model will take "considerable time," an Ethiopian government minister said Saturday. The crash of Flight ET 302 minutes into its flight to Nairobi on March 10 killed all onboard and caused the worldwide grounding of the Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft model involved in the disaster. "The investigation of such magnitude requires a careful analysis and considerable time to come up with something concrete," transport minister Dagmawit Moges told a press conference. Witnesses said the plane nose-dived into remote farmland southeast of the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa, reducing the plane to small pieces of debris buried deep in the earth. The victims came from 35 countries. Dagmawit said it would take up to six months to identify remains, and family members were being encouraged to submit DNA samples in Addis Ababa or at Ethiopian Airlines offices overseas. Death certificates would be issued in two weeks, she added. The black boxes from the Ethiopian craft were sent to France's BEA air safety agency this week to determine the cause of the accident. The data from one of them, the cockpit voice recorder, has already been extracted and handed over to Ethiopian authorities, the BEA said Saturday. "The work continues" to obtain the data from the flight data recorder, which was badly damaged in the crash, it added. A relative of one of the crash victims who asked not to named expressed frustration with the wait for remains. The person said that under the victim's Jewish faith, no funeral could be held until his remains were returned, and the six-month delay was distressing for his family. "They are in immense pressure and remorse as it is, without waiting half a year," the relative added. The crash of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 was the second deadly incidence for the 737 MAX 8 following the October crash of an Indonesian Lion Air jet that killed all 189 passengers and crew. The Boeing 737 MAX 8 is a brand-new jet. The crash of two of them in the space of just a few months, coupled with similarities in the circumstances, led countries and airlines around the world to ground the plane. A preliminary report into the Lion Air disaster was published a month after the crash. Explore further Paris investigators start studying Ethiopian jet's recorder 2019 AFP This photo provided by by the French air accident investigation authority BEA on Thursday, March 14, 2019, shows one of the black box flight recorder from the crashed Ethiopian Airlines jet, in le Bourget, north of Paris. The French air accident investigation agency has released a photo of the data recorder from the crashed Ethiopian Airlines jet. The agency, known by its French acronym BEA, received the flight's data recorder and voice recorder Thursday. (BEA via AP) Investigators have started studying the cockpit voice recorder of the crashed Ethiopian Airlines jet. The French air accident investigation agency BEA tweeted that technical work on the recorder began Saturday. The BEA also said work resumed on the flight's data recorders. The recorders, also known as black boxes, were sent to France because the BEA has extensive expertise in analyzing such devices. Experts from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board and the plane's manufacturer Boeing are among those involved in the investigation. In Ethiopia, forensic DNA work has begun on identifying the remains. It may take six months to identify the victims' remains, although death certificates should be issued in two weeks. The 157 who died in the crash came from 35 countries. A mass memorial service for the dead is planned in Addis Ababa to take place Sunday, one week after the crash. Muslim families have already held prayers for the dead and are anxious to have something to bury as soon as possible. The Ethiopian disaster and a crash last year in Indonesia were both of the Boeing 737 Max 8 planes. The United States and many other countries have grounded the Max 8s as the U.S.-based company faces the challenge of proving the jets are safe to fly amid suspicions that faulty sensors and software contributed to the two crashes that killed 346 people in less than six months. This aerial image made from video shows recovery work continuing at the scene where the Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 Max 8 crashed shortly after takeoff on Sunday killing all 157 on board, near Bishoftu, south-east of Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia Friday, March 15, 2019. Analysis of the flight recorders has begun in France, the airline said Friday, while in Ethiopia officials started taking DNA samples from victims' family members to assist in identifying remains. (AP Photo/Yidnek Kirubel) The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration said regulators had new data from satellite-based tracking that showed the movements of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 were similar to those of Lion Air Flight 610, which crashed off Indonesia in October, killing 189 people. Both planes flew with erratic altitude changes that could indicate the pilots struggled to control the aircraft. Shortly after their takeoffs, both crews tried to return to the airports but crashed. Boeing said it supports the grounding of its planes as a precautionary step, while reiterating "full confidence" in their safety. Engineers are making changes to the system designed to prevent an aerodynamic stall if sensors detect that the jet's nose is pointed too high and its speed is too slow. Investigators looking into the Indonesian crash are examining whether the software automatically pushed the plane's nose down repeatedly, and whether the Lion Air pilots knew how to solve that problem. Ethiopian Airlines says its pilots received special training on the software. In this photo taken Thursday, March 14, 2019, sister Goreti Kimani consoles brother Chira Kageche at a memorial service for their brother, Catholic priest Rev. George Mukua Kageche, 40, who died in the recent plane crash in Ethiopia, in his home town of Githunguri, near Nairobi, in Kenya. The Rev. George Kageche Mukua was one of 32 Kenyans killed when Ethiopian Airlines flight 302 faltered shortly after takeoff from Addis Ababa and crashed, a numbingly high toll on a flight carrying people from 35 countries. (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim) In this photo taken Thursday, March 14, 2019, Father Michael Wa Mugi lights a candle and signs the book of condolence next to a photo of Catholic priest Rev. George Mukua Kageche, 40, who died in the recent plane crash in Ethiopia, at a prayers ceremony held at his home in Githunguri, near Nairobi, in Kenya. The Rev. George Kageche Mukua was one of 32 Kenyans killed when Ethiopian Airlines flight 302 faltered shortly after takeoff from Addis Ababa and crashed, a numbingly high toll on a flight carrying people from 35 countries. (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim) Two United Nations security officers stand beside a memorial wreath during a ceremony at United Nations headquarters, Friday March 15, 2019, for U.N. personnel that were aboard Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET302. At least 21 U.N. personnel were among the 157 people from 35 countries who died Sunday morning when an Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 jetliner crashed shortly after takeoff from Addis Ababa en route to Nairobi, Kenya. (United Nations Photo by Manuel Elias via AP) Explore further Ethiopian Airlines says analysis of flight recorders begins 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. WASHINGTON -- After a two-year court case, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) has won a Freedom Of Information Act lawsuit granting it exclusive access to medical records in the 2015 death of Mikhail Lesin, the creator of Russia Today. Among numerous revelations, the 149-page file, released to RFE/RL on March 15 by the Washington, D.C. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, discloses for the first time that Lesins neck bone was completely fractured at or near the time of his death. The documents also reveal that the FBI had considered taking over the case in early 2016. The official autopsy had ruled Lesins death in a Dupont Circle hotel accidental, caused by blunt-force injuries amid excessive alcohol consumption. As Russian President Vladimir Putin's press minister in the early 2000s, Lesin was instrumental in bringing the country's national TV channels under government control, and launching Russia Today, the global Kremlin mouthpiece known today as RT. He lost favor with the Kremlin sometime around 2012, and largely fell out of the public eye. Lesin's links with Russia's ruling elite, the circumstances of his demise, and a string of suspicious deaths of Russians across the globe have fueled persistent speculation that he may have been killed. For Interviews and inquiries, please contact: Mike Eckel, Senior Correspondent eckelm@rferl.org - ph: +1.202.457.6981 - @Mike_Eckel eckelm@rferl.org - ph: +1.202.457.6981 - @Mike_Eckel Carl Schreck, Enterprise Editor schreckc@rferl.org - ph: +420.221.123.622 - @CarlSchreck About RFE/RL RFE/RL relies on its networks of local reporters to provide accurate news and information to 34 million people in 26 languages and 22 countries where media freedom is restricted, or where a professional press has not fully developed. Its videos were viewed over 2.6 billion times on Facebook and YouTube in FY2018. RFE/RL is an editorially independent media company funded by a grant from the U.S. Congress through the U.S. Agency for Global Media. ---- FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Joanna Levison in Prague (levisonj@rferl.org, +420.221.122.080) Martins Zvaners in Washington (zvanersm@rferl.org, +1.202.457.6948) 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 The country earned the 5th position in the Top 5 of Missosologys global beauty chart. Vietnamese beauties had an excellent year with titles that contributed to help the country to reach a higher position by their achievements in international beauty pageants. Accordingly, Miss Universe Vietnam 2017, H'Hen Nie is the first Vietnamese beauty named in top five of Miss Universe pageant 2018. The leading beauty pageant website, Missosology said that her top 5 placement at the contest marks it as the highest historical achievement for Vietnamese beauty. Vietnamese beauty Nguyen Phuong Khanh was crowned as Miss Earth 2018 in the Philippines in last November . She also became the first Vietnamese winner of the Miss Earth title. Miss Vietnam 2018 Tran Tieu Vy was named among the Top 30 of Miss World 2018 while model Minh Tu finished in the Top 10 of Miss Supranational 2018. The first runner-up of Miss Vietnam 2018, Phuong Nga named was named in the Top 10 of Miss Grand International 2018 . Vietnamese representative Huong Giang was crowned Miss International Queen 2018. Additionally, Vietnamese beauties, inclding HHen Nie, Phuong Khanh,Tran Tieu Vy and Minh Tu earn nominations for the Timeless Beauty award by the leading beauty pageant website, Missosology. Venezuela won the first place in Missosologys global beauty rankings with its placement at Miss Earth and Miss Supranational, respectively. The country had the biggest number of representatives entering final rounds at worlds prestigious international beauty pageants. The Philippines got the 2nd place while the 3rd and 4th positions went to Mexico and South Africa, respectively. Miss Universe Vietnam 2017, H'Hen Nie is the first Vietnamese beauty named in top five of Miss Universe pageant 2018. By THU NGAN Translated by Kim Khanh Rick Gates, the former top deputy to one-time Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, continues to cooperate with the government in several ongoing investigations and so is not ready for sentencing, according to a Friday court filing. The request in Washington to delay sentencing was made jointly by special counsel Robert S. Mueller III and Gatess attorney, Thomas C. Green. The status of this matter has not changed substantially since the January report, as defendant Gates continues to cooperate with respect to several ongoing investigations, and accordingly the parties do not believe it is appropriate to commence the sentencing process at this time, they wrote in a one-page update for U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson of the District. The investigations were not described. The reference to Gatess cooperation echoed language used in November and in January and asked for another 60 days until May 14 to deliver the next update on Gatess standing. The request to hold off on delivering Gates his sentence comes amid heightened speculation about whether the special counsel probe might be winding down in a week that saw Manafort receive a total of 7-1/2 years in prison for his pair of federal cases growing out of the Mueller probe into Russian interference in the 2016 election. The update in the Gates case is a reminder of pending investigations into matters he worked on. As Trumps deputy campaign chairman and a top inauguration official, Gates had firsthand insight into several of the presidents senior aides and activities. Gates pleaded guilty in February 2018 to conspiracy and lying to the FBI, becoming one of the first targets to cooperate in Muellers investigation. He testified for the government against his former boss at Manaforts August fraud trial in Virginia, which preceded Manaforts guilty plea in another federal case in Washington. Manaforts sentencing Wednesday capped the two cases of conspiring to defraud the United States by concealing millions of dollars he earned while working for a Russia-backed political party in Ukraine; conspiring to tamper with witnesses; and bank and tax fraud. Separately this week, another federal judge on Thursday set a deadline of June 14 to inform the court when former Trump national security adviser Michael T. Flynn can be sentenced. Flynn pleaded guilty in December 2017 to lying to the FBI about his post-election contacts with then-Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak regarding U.S. sanctions. His sentencing has been put off several times, and Flynns lawyers sought the latest delay citing his potential testimony in the July 15 trial of his former business partner Bijan Kian in federal court in Virginia. According to an indictment, Kian and Flynn together took hundreds of thousands of dollars from the Turkish government to push for the extradition from the United States of dissident cleric Fethullah Gulen. According to an indictment, Kian and Flynnfrom the Turkish government to push for the extradition from the United States of dissident cleric Fethullah Gulen. Kians defense wants copies of 19 FBI reports from interviews with Flynn, 15 of which come from the special counsel, in hopes of attacking his credibility should he take the stand. But during a Friday hearing in Alexandria federal court, Assistant U.S. Attorney James P. Gillis resisted handing over some sensitive documents to Kians attorneys, saying there are other investigations that would or could be hampered by disclosure of unfettered information. Gillis told Judge Anthony J. Trenga that prosecutors are sharing everything that could be used to challege Flynns potential testimony. He said Kians attorneys can view all reports that touch on their clients case, just not have copies. Were not trying to hide the ball, he said. Trenga said he was confident the government would comply with its discovery obligations but asked Kians lawyers for a list of information the defense believes is missing from the record. The ongoing activity in cases related to Muellers investigation comes even amid signs the team he assembled is readying to disband. On Thursday, Mueller spokesman Peter Carr confirmed in a email that Andrew Weissmann, a leading prosecutor in the Manafort and Gates cases, will be concluding his detail to the Special Counsels Office in the near future. NPR first reported that Weissmann is returning to New York University, where since 2011 he was a senior law school fellow between stints since 2011 serving as FBI general counsel under then-FBI director Mueller and as chief of the Justice Departments criminal divisions fraud section, from which he joined the special counsel probe. Manaforts sentencing Wednesday capped the two cases of conspiring to defraud the United States by concealing millions of dollars he earned while working for a Russia-backed political party in Ukraine; conspiring to tamper with witnesses; and bank and tax fraud. Gates worked closely for years as Manaforts right-hand man as a political consultant in Ukraine and as his deputy on the presidential campaign. After Manafort resigned from the Trump campaign in August 2016 amid concerns over his ongoing Ukraine contacts, Gates remained in Trumps orbit, working as a campaign adviser until the election. He then helped organize Trumps inauguration. Gates faces about five to six years in prison under sentencing guidelines, but his cooperation could prompt the government to ask for significantly less time. Already fined a record-breaking $7.7 billion in two years by the European Commission, the Financial Times is now citing sources who say a third fine might be in the works over Google AdSenseand investors will be happy to know in advance that the fine is expected to be announced next week. Still, following the FT report early on Friday, Alphabet stock showed no sign of wavering, despite the Big Tech firm falling under fire from European regulators. That makes one wonder what could possibly rile Google? Not even the $7.7 billion in fines so far has put a dent in the giant. The first fine came in September 2017, when Europes competition watchdog slapped the tech giant with a $2.7-billion fine in anti-trust ruling over its shopping service. The Commission found Google to be favoring its own services to the detriment of its rivals. But a $2.7 billion fine was rather aggressiveprobably because they know that if its not big, its not going to punish Google. In the end, the 2017 fine was more than two times bigger than a similar anti-trust fine in history. Then, in July last year, the European Commission went even further, levying a $5-billion fine on Google for anti-trust abuse related to its Android platform. In this case, Google was accused of illegally tying Chrome and search apps to Android. Commissioner Margrethe Vestager said at that time: "Today, mobile internet makes up more than half of global internet traffic. It has changed the lives of millions of Europeans. Our case is about three types of restrictions that Google has imposed on Android device manufacturers and network operators to ensure that traffic on Android devices goes to the Google search engine. In this way, Google has used Android as a vehicle to cement the dominance of its search engine. These practices have denied rivals the chance to innovate and compete on the merits. They have denied European consumers the benefits of effective competition in the important mobile sphere. This is illegal under EU antitrust rules." Related: Venezuela Has Yet Another Crisis Developing Specifically, the Commission said that Google was requiring manufacturers to pre-install the Google Search app and browser app (Chrome), as a condition for licensing Google's app store (the Play Store). It was also making payments to certain large manufacturers and mobile network operations on condition that they exclusively pre-installed the Google Search app on their devices, and it was preventing manufacturers from selling any smart mobile devices running alternative versions of Android. So, thats shopping and Android covered. What comes next? AdSense, according to FT. In 2006, Google started mandating that if third-party websites want to use the Google search box on their sites then they will have to buy into its ad service, too. Google was prohibiting third parties from sourcing search ads from its competitors and giving Google search ads premium placement, among other things. Presumably seeing the anti-trust furor that was going to arise out of this, Google softened that a bit in 2009 and then got rid of it altogether in 2016. But it still may have to pay for those 10 years of bullying. Related: Wells Fargo Accused Of Ongoing Lawlessness FT isnt breaking this story, really. While they are scooping anonymously source news that the fines will be announced next week, the AdSense issue first arose in January this year, and the case was actually opened in 2016when Google phased the restrictions out. Well have to wait until next week to find out how much the fine could end up being, but chances are that it will be lower than the $5 billion slapped over the Android issues because Google cooperated in 2016 with regulators to change AdSense. But if thats not the case, FT estimates that in the worst case scenario, a fine for this could be in the neighborhood of $13 billionbasically 10 percent of Googles most recent global turnover. By Michael Kern for Safehaven.com More Top Reads From Safehaven.com: John Lindseys is Pacific Gas and Electric Co.'s Diablo Canyon marine meteorologist and a media relations representative. Email him at pgeweather@pge.com or follow him on Twitter: @PGE_John for storm updates. Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. " " Contrary to the popular image of quicksand occurring in the desert, it's more common near streams, marshes and on the beach. Mark Williamson/Getty Images Back in the 1950s and 1960s, TV and movie screenwriters desperate to finish a script would fall back upon a convenient, if hackneyed, plot twist: A character steps into a pit of quicksand, requiring a dramatic rescue to keep them from being sucked under. But since then, the shock value of quicksand seems to have worn off, and it's pretty much vanished from popular culture except for a recent humorous appearance in a Geico commercial, where the protagonist fruitlessly implores a house cat to save him from being smothered. If quicksand doesn't haunt our collective media-induced nightmares with the frequency that it once did, one reason may be scientists' and outdoors experts repeated debunking of the menace as depicted on the big and small screens. To understand what it can and can't do, it's important to know just what quicksand actually is just a bunch of ordinary sand that becomes saturated with water. This means that the friction between sand particles is reduced, and the overall mass becomes unable to support the weight that dry sand could. It's found most often in river deltas and sometimes on beaches, but it also can be created by earthquakes that release water from underground aquifers and destabilize sandy soil. Advertisement But while quicksand is real, the idea that you could be sucked under its surface and completely disappear just isn't so. In a 2005 study, University of Amsterdam researcher Daniel Bonn who had heard cautionary stories about quicksand from shepherds while on a visit to Iran and colleagues replicated quicksand in a laboratory. They then placed aluminum beads with the same density as a typical human body atop the mixture, and shook it. Even though the quicksand collapsed, the beads didn't get sucked under. Instead, they floated atop the surface, never more than half-submerged. But as Bonn told the journal Nature, the biggest danger of quicksand is getting stuck in it on a beach during low tide, and then being drowned when the tide comes in. Back in January 2012, that apparently happened to a 33-year-old British woman visiting the island of Antigua for her father's wedding. According to an account in the Telegraph, the victim went the beach to watch the sunset, and cried out after becoming stuck in quicksand but no one heard her. Night fell and the tide rose before rescuers could reach her and she died. "It is frightening how quickly it all happened," the local coroner testified at a hearing, according to the newspaper. If you get stuck in quicksand along a river or lake, you're in somewhat less dire straits, though you still could succumb to a slower death from thirst or exposure if you remain stuck long enough, or even suffocation if your face becomes submerged depending on your position. Texas authorities think that may have killed a 50-year-old man who apparently went swimming in the San Antonio River in 2015. Authorities found his body three days later, face-down and lodged in quicksand up to the bottom of his buttocks, according to a 2016 Houston Chronicle article. The paper noted that it was the only death from quicksand reported in the state over a five-year-period. And in 2016 in Florida, a 78-year-old man survived being stuck in quicksand near a creek for eight hours, rescued only after a city vehicle fortuitously passed by and workers heard his cries for help. If you ever find yourself in such a situation, quicksand researcher Bonn told National Geographic that the best way to escape is to wriggle your legs around, creating a space between them and the quicksand. That enables water to flow down and loosen the sand, so you can slip out. Do it slowly, so that you don't panic, and keep in mind that the quicksand itself can't kill you. It's also a good idea to take walks on the beach with a companion, and to carry a mobile phone so you can call for help if needed. For more tips, check out this BrainStuff video: Now That's Interesting Quicksand isn't just a natural occurrence two Chicago teens died in 1997 of exposure and suffocation after getting stuck in quicksand accidentally created by a construction site. " " Tesla CEO Elon Musk, with a Powerpack system in the background, unveils a suite of batteries for homes, businesses and utilities. Musk thinks Tesla could help Australia with its energy problems and quickly. Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images It's a slow news cycle if there aren't at least a few stories about Elon Musk, founder of Tesla and SpaceX, making a grand prediction or promise. Just a few weeks ago, he was in the news when SpaceX announced plans to send two space tourists on a trip around the far side of the moon and back. Now, he's in the headlines because of a bet related to an energy crisis in Australia. Here's the backstory: A gas supply shortage in Australia has been causing big problems. Analysts believe that the 2018 summer season could bring with it brownouts and blackouts, particularly in southern regions Australia. A robust storage plant, however, could help to alleviate those energy shortages. In other words, if Australia had some massive batteries, the country could store excess electricity when production allowed and draw upon the stored electricity whenever gas shortages occurred. Advertisement Batteries also allow for alternative approaches to energy production. Renewable sources like solar energy or wind energy are great, but if it's nighttime or the wind isn't blowing, you're often out of luck. Storage solutions allow you to pack away produced energy for later use, even when the sun isn't out or the air is calm and still. That's where Tesla, Elon Musk's company famous for its electric cars, comes into the picture. Lyndon Rive, who is vice president of Tesla's energy products division, said that the company would be able to deliver batteries capable of storing 100 to 300 megawatt-hours of electricity within 100 days of a contract signing. That's a big claim. The storage batteries in question are enormous, industrial-strength monstrosities. Mike Cannon-Brookes, an Australian billionaire, asked Musk if he really thought he could back up Rive's promise and deliver that much energy storage that quickly. Musk's response? The two followed up on cost. Musk revealed that Tesla would charge $250 per kilowatt-hour of storage capacity, meaning a 100 MWh battery storage plant would come in at a cool $25 million. That doesn't necessarily include costs like shipping and labor. However, it's a heck of a deal. According to Rive, previous large-scale installations were closer to $50 million for 100 MWh storage capacity. If the agreement goes through, it will give Tesla an opportunity to demonstrate the power of its Gigafactory. That's the enormous battery manufacturing facility the company built in Nevada. Think of it as the Death Star II of battery storage manufacturing it will be an awesome sight to behold once it is fully operational. Tesla has a history of installing big projects. At the end of 2015, Tesla began a project to build an 80 MWh battery storage plant near Los Angeles. The company finished construction in three months. You can check it out in this Tesla promo video: If the Australian government signs a contract with Tesla, the company has a chance to impress the world. If Tesla fails, Australia gets a shiny, new battery storage facility free of charge. Whose side would you bet on? Theoretically a welcome break from Hollywood's usual 'space invaders' action adventures, Captive State focuses on what happens after alien creatures from outer space have landed on Earth -- and won. Rupert Wyatt directed, and Captive State may play best as a weirdly diffuse, unofficial sequel to his own Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011). Rather than talking apes taking over the world, though, the opening moments of Captive State quickly sketch out how bizarre alien creatures, known collectively as The Legislature, conquered Earth and are now ... er ... doing something EVIL!!! (There are strong hints that the alien creatures are harvesting resources they need from Earth, with plans to move on after they are finished, with no concern for what happens to humanity after that. But I don't believe that is ever spelled out clearly.) In any event, the film follows a resistance movement that has grown in Chicago, Illinois, over the nine years since the alien creatures first landed. Gabriel Drummond (Ashton Sanders, from Moonlight) lives in the long shadow cast by his older brother, Rafe (Jonathan Majors). Their parents were killed in the original invasion, and Rafe became known for his vigorous protests against the police state, peopled entirely by acquiescent humans, that The Legislature has imposed upon mankind. Now Rafe has disappeared and presumably been killed. Gabriel wants nothing to do with any protests, though he is still tracked suspiciously by William Mulligan (John Goodman), a police commander who was the former partner of Gabriel's late, police officer father. (Everyone has been implanted with alien devices, so their every movement can be tracked.) Things heat up as an invasion-anniversary rally approaches at Chicago's Soldier Field, a large outdoor stadium where tens of thousands will gather and the alien creatures are rumored to be making a rare public appearance. Inevitably, Gabriel is drawn into the protest. Mulligan seeks to keep Gabriel safe, even as he pursues his capture as part of his own agenda. What makes Captive State distinct is that it is markedly different from other 'alien invasion' movies. Despite the high-profile names involved -- Vera Farmiga also appears in a role that amounts to a glorified cameo -- the story is consumed with detailing the very low-key activities of a small group of resistors. It's like listening to a stranger whisper for 90 minutes about something they insist demands immediate attention. The film never builds sufficient momentum to overcome the key decision to withhold vital narrative details. For long stretches of time, the gloomy backgrounds invite torpor; we never get a full sense of the stakes involved or even what the resistors are attempting to achieve, except ... more resistance. Yes, the alien invaders are "bad," because of the obvious detrimental effects upon the resistors -- we witness many, many unhappy faces -- so are the filmmakers saying that protesting in itself is enough? It's entirely possible that I am not intelligent enough, or sufficiently perceptive, to understand the message the filmmakers are expressing. Putting that aside, if that's even possible, Captive State is most enjoyable as an alternate-blockbuster, one that seeks to be a modern-day social sci-fi drama, like The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951), without necessarily identifying the social issues it is protesting. The film is now playing in theaters throughout Canada and the U.S. Secur Solutions Group data leak Another clamorous data leak made the headlines, personal information of 808,201 blood donors in Singapore was exposed online. The news was first reported by The Straits Times, the huge trove of data was contained in a database operated by the Secur Solutions Group Pte Ltd (SSG). People who registered to donate since 1986 in Singapore was exposed because the company left the database unprotected on an Internet for more than two months, since January 4, 2019 The personal information of more than 800,000 people who have donated or registered to donate blood in Singapore since 1986 was improperly put online by a Health Sciences Authority (HSA) vendor for more than two months, but access to the database was cut off soon after the discovery. states the article published by The Straits Times. The Singapore Health Sciences Authority (HSA) was informed of the incident on March 13 by a security expert who discovered the unsecured database on a server exposed online. The HSA notified the incident to the donors, according to the organizations the SSG was working on a database containing registration data of 808,201 blood donors. Exposed records include name, NRIC, gender, number of blood donations, dates of the last three blood donations, and in some cases, blood type, height, and weight. The database did not contain other sensitive data or other medical info. The analysis of the log confirmed that only the expert who discovered the archive accessed it in the time frame it remained exposed online, anyway, the investigation is still ongoing. Investigations are ongoing. Preliminary findings from HSAs review of the database logs show that other than the cybersecurity expert who raised the alert, no other unauthorised person had accessed the database. reads the data breach notification published by the HSA. SSG had placed the information we provided them on an unsecured database in an internet-facing server on 4 Jan 2019 and failed to put in place adequate safeguards to prevent unauthorised access. This was done without HSAs knowledge and approval, and was contrary to its contractual obligations with HSA. Mimi Choong, HSA CEO, apologized for the incident. We sincerely apologise to our blood donors for this lapse by our vendor. HSA treats donor data confidentiality very seriously. said Choong. We would like to assure donors that HSAs centralised blood bank system is not affected. HSA will also step up checks and monitoring of our vendors to ensure the safe and proper use of blood donor information. The Secur Solutions Group confirmed in an official statement that the database was immediately secured and hired a consultant firm to assess its IT systems. We have engaged external cyber security professionals, KPMG in Singapore, and initiated a thorough review of our IT systems. We are working closely with HSA and other authorities in continuing investigations. reads the statement. Pierluigi Paganini ( SecurityAffairs Secur Solutions Group, data breach) Share this... Linkedin Share this: Twitter Print LinkedIn Facebook More Tumblr Pocket Share On Israeli media reported this week that the Shin Bet internal security service warned Benny Gantz that Iranian cyber spies hacked his cellphone exposing his personal data. Iranian hackers targeted the campaign of the former Israeli military chief Benny Gantz who is a leading challenger to Prime Minister Netanyahu in next elections. According to the Israeli intelligence, the cyber spies hacked the Gantzs mobile device putting his personal details and addresses in hostile hands. The cellphone of Benny Gantz, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus biggest rival and the chair of the political alliance Kahol Lavan, was hacked by Iranian intelligence, Israels Channel 12 reported Thursday evening. reported the Haaretz website. According to Gantzs staff, the hackers aimed at damaging his political campaign by leaking the stolen data just weeks before Israels April 9 elections raises important questions. We dont comment on issues that are at the heart of state security. It is important to emphasize that this incident happened four years after Gantz finished his tenure as chief of staff, [a fact] that raises many questions regarding the timing of the reports publication. reads an official statement released by Gantzs Kahol Lavan party. A campaign official speaking on condition of anonymity revealed that threat actors hacked the Gantzs device several months ago. Benny Gantz attends a campaign convention March 11, 2019. Israel says Iran has hacked his phone.AFP (Source Haaretz) According to the report by journalist Amit Segal, two officials from Israels Shin Bet security service warned Gantz five weeks ago, during the election campaign. The Shin Bet officials told Benny Gantz that hackers breached his private cellphone. The hack has happened during the election campaign and the Israeli intelligence blamed Iranians cyberspies. Early March, security experts at Microsoft warned of economic damages caused by the activity of Iran-linked hacking groups that are working to penetrate systems, businesses, and governments worldwide. According to Microsoft, the attackers already caused hundreds of millions of dollars in damages by stealing secret data and wiping information from computer networks of 200 companies over the past two years. Pierluigi Paganini Germanys states have decided to criminalize black marketplace operators with the introduction of specific federal legislation. Germanys states have voted to punish operators of dark web platforms with the introduction of federal legislation. The legislation aims at criminalizing every operator behind darkweb marketplaces where illegal activities take place. This Friday, therefore, the German Federal Council discussed an amendment to the Criminal Code. The bill, which has been proposed by the North Rhine-Westphalian Minister of Justice Peter Biesenbach (CDU) introduces a new criminal record that punishes with up to three years imprisonment who offers an internet-based service whose access and accessibility is limited by special technical precautions, and whose purpose or activity is directed to commit or promote certain illegal acts. Black marketplace operators should even face imprisonment of up to ten years. The legislative body that represents Germanys 16 federal states (Lander), the Bundesrat, voted for the amendment and it will propose the draft law to the Bundestag. The bill follows the end of the trial of the Elysium platform after three years of investigation, four convictions, an exchange for child pornography. The defendants face high prison sentences, the operators of the illegal Tor services operated from a workshop in Bad Camberg, Germany. The Elysium website had more than 87,000 members, most of the users were from Austria and Germany. The platform was used by pedophiles and criminals to exchange pedo-pornographic content and according to German police, it was also used to arranged meetings to abuse children physically. The police identified and arrested the administrator of the group, a 39-year-old man from Hesse region of Germany. The man was arrested on 12th June during a raid in his apartment, the agents seized the server used by the suspect. The investigation resulted in the arrest of other suspects. Privacy advocates criticized the law and warn of possible misinterpretation that could lead to the criminalization of every individual who runs a hidden service. According to Matthias Backer and the Berlin judge Ulf Buermeyer, there are no reasons for tightening the law. There are already sufficient criminal standards for the trade in drugs, weapons or child pornography and these are of course also for offers in the Darknet. reported the Zeit Online. That the prosecution works, as the recent case of Elysium has shown. The bill involves a huge risk of criminalizing completely unproblematic behavior, creating huge risks for people who run Internet platforms, said Buermeyer, who is also the chairman of the Society for Freedom Rights , Deutschlandfunk . The same applies to Jens Kubieziel. He is a board member of the association Onelfreunde , which works for confidential communication and the Tor network. Ive talked to several lawyers and almost everyone thinks that the change in the law could affect relays, he says in an interview with ZEIT ONLINE. Stay tuned Pierluigi Paganini (SecurityAffairs Dark Web, black marketplaces) Share this... Linkedin Share this: Twitter Print LinkedIn Facebook More Tumblr Pocket Share On The Philippines had the privilege of hosting the global launch of the 2019 Toyota Hiace, which ushered in the sixth generation of the long-running van model. Looking at the latest version, its easy to see that the all-new Hiace model is worlds apart from its predecessor. For starters, the engine goes from the cab-over-engine design of old to a more conventional engine placement. The new van is also longer and wider, and the increase in size is obvious in the seating capacity, especially in the top-spec trims. Ingress and egress is also easier in the new model, thanks to improvements in design, occupant space, and convenience features. Whats more amazing is that all these new advantages come at a lower price, for while the 2018 Super Grandia LXV costs PHP2,671,000 (PhP2,686,000 for White Pearl), the 2019 GL Grand Tourer maxes out at PHP2,220,000 (PhP2,235,000 for Luxury Pearl Toning). Curious how these upmost trims stack up against each other? In this spec-by-spec car comparison, we pit the 2018 Super Grandia 3.0 A/T LXV against the 2019 GL Grandia Tourer 2.8 Diesel A/T. Specs 2018 Toyota Hiace Super Grandia 3.0 A/T LXV 2019 Toyota Hiace GL Grandia Tourer 2.8 Diesel A/T LWH (mm) 5,380 x 1,880 x 2,285 5,915 x 1,950 x 2,280 Engine 3.0-liter DOHC 16-valve Inline-4 VG Intercooler Turbo 4 Cylinders, In-line Type 16-Valve DOHC Displacement (cc) 2,982 2,755 Curb Weight (kg) 2,090-2,125 2,325 Max Output (hp/rpm) 134 / 3,400 161 / 3,600 Max Torque (Nm/rpm) 300 / 1,200 - 2,400 420 / 1,400 ~ 2,200 Transmission 4-Speed Automatic (Gate Type, Dash-Mounted) 6-Speed Automatic Suspension (Front/Rear) Double Wishbone with Stabilizer Bar / Rigid Axle, Leaf Spring MacPherson Strut / Rigid Axle, Leaf Spring Wheelbase 3,110 3,860 Ground Clearance (mm) 180 175 Fuel Euro 2 Diesel Euro 4 Diesel Seating Capacity 10 14 Cargo Capacity (L) NA NA Fuel Tank Capacity (L) 70 70 Brakes (Front/Rear) Ventilated Discs / Drums Ventilated Discs / Ventilated Discs Wheels 6JJ x 15-inch Alloy Wheel 7J x 16-inch Alloy Wheel Airbags Driver and Passenger Driver and Passenger Reverse Camera NA NA Sunroof NA NA Headlights Halogen with Leveling Bi_beam Multi-Reflector Halogen with Integrated Turn Lamp Foglights Yes Headlamp Integrated Taillights Standard Standard Price PhP2,686,000 PhP2,220,000 The post CAR COMPARISON: 2018 vs 2019 Toyota Hiace appeared first on Carmudi Philippines. At least 31 people have been killed and dozens are missing as tropical cyclone Idai hit eastern parts of Zimbabwe after lashing neighbouring Mozambique, the government said on Saturday. Most of the deaths were in Chimanimani town, Zimbabwe's information ministry announced on Twitter. Two of the victims were students who died after a landslide sent a boulder crashing into their dormitory, collapsing the wall of the dining room and trapping 50 of them, the country's Department of Civil Protection (DCP) said in a statement. The boarding school has been shut and the army, which is leading rescue operations, is moving in to take the nearly 200 students to safety. "So far a total of 71 people are reported missing," said the DCP. Others who had fled their homes were stranded on top of a mountain waiting to be rescued, including workers from a diamond mine, as strong winds and poor visibility hampered helicopter flights, the government said. The storm damaged many houses and washed away bridges in the eastern Manicaland province which borders Mozambique. Thousands of people have been affected by power cuts and flooding, a lawmaker told AFP. Earlier Saturday, Joshua Sacco, an MP in Chimanimani district, told AFP that more than 100 people were missing. Around 100 houses had been swept away in Ngangu township in Chimanimani town, he said. Strong winds ripped roofs off prison cells in the southern city of Masvingo, according to state broadcaster ZBC. The opposition Movement for Democratic Change called for immediate help for the storm-hit east, warning that a "serious humanitarian crisis" was unfolding. "We need state intervention on a massive scale to avoid biblical disaster," MDC spokesman Jacob Mafume wrote on Twitter. President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is currently on a visit to Abu Dhabi, has declared a state of disaster in the affected areas. "My thoughts & prayers are with all those affected by Cyclone Idai. Rescue operations are underway & we are grateful for the bravery of the men & women of the Zimbabwean armed forces who, along with our local & international partners, are participating in the urgent rescue efforts," he tweeted. - 'Dire situation' - Tropical cyclone Idai battered central Mozambique on Friday killing at least 21 people there and cutting off more than half a million residents of the port city Beira. Even before the cyclone made landfall on Friday, heavy rains earlier in the week had already claimed 66 lives and forced 17,000 people from their homes in Mozambique, local officials said. They also affected neighbouring Malawi, where 56 people died. As the cyclone hit, Mozambique's President Filipe Nyusi appealed for emergency assistance for the victims before leaving for eSwatini. "We have compatriots suffering without hope and we have to restore hope," he said on Friday as he set off on a three-day state visit to the kingdom previously known as Swaziland. But in statement Saturday his office said he was cutting short the eSwatini trip and would travel to the affected central regions on Sunday. As the cyclone approached, the Red Cross sent out more than 200 volunteers to areas most likely to be affected. "The situation is dire but we don't know the exact particulars," said Jamie LeSueur, the Red Cross's roving emergency operations manager for Africa. The crisis requires a swift response with "the full force of the humanitarian community behind the government of Mozambique," he told AFP. - South Africa rations electricity - Beira's international airport was closed after the cyclone damaged the air traffic control tower, the navigation systems and the runways. The storm also affected power supplies to neighbouring South Africa which imports electricity from Mozambique to supplement its own production. South Africa's power utility company Eskom on Saturday introduced electricity rationing. burs-sn/pvh With inky designs covering his chest and arms, one man crawls on the ground like a tiger while another twists his fingers to resemble claws and growls. The possessed devotees appear to be on the verge of attack but are quickly restrained and coaxed back to normal. It's all part of a sacred tattoo festival at the Wat Bang Phra temple in Nakhon Pathom province 80 kilometres (50 miles) west of Bangkok. Thailand is a deeply superstitious country where animism, folk beliefs and Hinduism seep into the majority faith Buddhism. Every year, thousands of devotees gather at Wat Bang Phra for the annual festival, which celebrates the traditional Sak Yant tattoos. Wearers believe the intricate ink brings them good luck and protection from harm. They flock to the festival so monks can bless and "recharge" their tattoos, while some receive new ones via long metal needles with countless small jabs. "Whatever sins we committed this past year, we can wash it away when we pay respects to the elder monks who bless our tattoos," said Chalachai Pichuea 44, a motorcycle taxi driver from Bangkok. Family business owner Wichai Kripjumwan said he comes every year for the renewal process and to thank the monks "who give us these powers". The symbols favoured by devotees vary from astrological signs, wild animals or inscriptions in Pali and Sanskrit. Participants work themselves into possessed trances to resemble wild animals and charge towards a stage with a Buddha statue. Throngs of volunteers block them, then pinch their ears in an act meant to release the spirit. South Korean President Moon Jae-in sloughed off the trappings of high office Saturday and mingled with thousands of other tourists at Cambodia's famed Angkor Wat. The Angkor Archeological Park, a world heritage site, contains the remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, dating from the 9th to the 15th centuries. Millions visit each year, making the ruins in Siem Reap province Cambodia's most popular tourist destination. But it also serves as a frequent stopping off point on major state visits. Moon lingered for two hours at the site, where he climbed on wooden staircases for better views, examined intricate ancient walls, posed for photos with officials, and paused to enjoy a coconut juice. He is the first South Korean president to make a state visit to Cambodia in 10 years, according to Yonhap. Im Sokrithy, from the state agency which manages Angkor, guided Moon along with an entourage and said the leader was curious about the complex's history. He asked where the stones were taken from and the process of building the temples," he told reporters. South Korea is one of the country's biggest investors and source of tourists, and Moon's presence also delighted South Korean travellers, who clapped and shook his hand. The appearance caps a three-day trip during which Moon met with Cambodian leader Hun Sen in the capital Phnom Penh on Friday. Pioneer compact distributor Suzuki Philippines brought home the much-talked-about vehicle for Filipino adventurersthe all-new Suzuki Jimny All-Grip Pro. The price of the all-new Jimny All-Grip Pro was revealed in a launch held at the BGC Amphitheater in Bonifacio Global City last March 8though CARMUDI PHILIPPINES already knew it a week before the launch. The launch is part of a three-leg activation to be strategically mounted in key parts of the metro. The second leg is currently happening this weekend at Central Park Eastwood from March 15 to 17 and the third leg will be at the UP Town Center Central Plaza on March 22 to 24. During these dates, off-road enthusiasts can check out the fourth generation of Suzukis trademark 44 and other models live and up close. Fun activities and games await off-road adventurers during each leg of the launch. Fans can choose their vehicles armor because this off-road warrior comes in two variants: monotone and two-tone.The monotone variants are Pearl Bluish Black, Solid Medium Gray, Metallic Silky Silver, Superior White, and Solid Jungle Green while the two-tone variants are Solid Kinetic Yellow, Metallic Brisk Blue, and Metallic Chiffon Ivory. Prices for the all-new Jimny are PHP975,000 for GL MT; PHP1.035 million for the GL AT; PHP1.085 million for the GLX AT monotone and PHP1.095 million for the GLX AT two-tone. The Suzuki Jimny All-Grip Pro is now available in all authorized Suzuki dealers. 2019 Suzuki Jimny The post Suzuki PH Holds Three-Leg Activation for All-New Suzuki Jimny All-Grip Pro appeared first on Carmudi Philippines. This week I was asked to give a small speech at the 2nd annual LGBT Health Equity Fair in the East Wing Rotunda of the Pennsylvania State Capitol. They asked me to speak about health disparities facing the LGBT community and the importance of safe, affirming, and welcoming spaces. Heres an excerpt of that speech: As a transgender person myself, I am acutely aware of the health disparities the LGBT community faces as Ive faced many of them myself. According to the 2018 PA LGBT Health Needs Assessment, 23 percent of transgender people did not see a doctor when they needed to because of fear of being mistreated as a transgender person. I avoided going to my local emergency room when I should have after a complication following a gender affirmation surgery for fear that they would mistreat me and because I felt it was too sensitive of an issue to discuss with a doctor I didnt know. 17 percent of LGBT Pennsylvanians do not or are unsure if they think of any healthcare provider as their personal doctor. For 4 years after I started hormone replacement therapy, I didnt have a primary health care provider because I didnt know any trans-competent family doctors where I lived. 36.9 percent of transgender Pennsylvanians smoke cigarettes compared to 18 percent of the general PA population. I was one of those 36.9 percent. Ive been cigarette-free since 2014. 58.7 percent of transgender Pennsylvanians have never been tested for HIV. During one of my HIV tests, I had to advocate that the tester mark me as a trans male on the form so that the CDC realizes that trans men are being tested for HIV despite the fact that the CDC does not count trans people in their HIV testing data. 33.8 percent of transgender and gender nonconforming Pennsylvanians self-described as eligible to receive a cervical pap test have never been screened for cervical cancer. One of the reasons I chose to undergo a hysterectomy was so that I never had to tolerate the incredibly uncomfortable cervical cancer pap test as a male again. According to the 2015 National Transgender Discrimination Survey, 8 percent of survey respondents reported currently using drugs or alcohol to cope with the mistreatment that they have received as a result of being transgender. I was one of those 8 percent. Ive been sober for almost 5 years. It is incredibly important for LGBT people to have safe, affirming, welcoming, competent care. However, its not enough to say, We welcome LGBT people, but then not have gender identity and sexual orientation data on the intake forms. Its not enough to say, We accept LGBT people here and then make the patient explain to the provider what HRT stands for. Its not enough to display a rainbow flag in your office and then have the receptionist misgender you or use your deadname. Being competent and affirming matters. 57 percent of trans youth attempt suicide. However, that number drops to only 4 percent when they are supported by their parents. A study of at-risk trans people shows a rate of self-reported suicide attempts dropped by more than 80 percent when they were given access to transition-related treatment. After being allowed to emerge as their rightful gender, 95 percent of trans and gender nonconforming people report their quality of life and sense of well-being improved. Dont be an ally in name only. Do your homework. Have the staff trained in LGBT care by an LGBT person. Update your intake forms. Use the right name and pronouns. You could literally save a life. Volvo Philippines hailed Joey Concepcion as the Ironmark Awardee in the recently-concluded People of the Year Awards. The local authorized distributor and dealer of Volvo cars in the Philippines gives due recognition to his achievements in the field of business and entrepreneurship. Concepcion was hailed as such for his accomplishments as the president and chief executive officer of RFM Corporation and other top businesses in the country and has forged on to other commendable pursuits in the socio-civic sphere. In Volvo PHs statement, Concepcions vision of an enterprising and progressive Philippines with empowered and optimistic Filipinos has led him to found Go Negosyo. Along with like-minded individuals, it has come from an advocacy to a full-blown movement that has helped change the mindset and attitude of Filipinos regarding business and entrepreneurship, it added. As the Presidential Adviser for Entrepreneurship, the newly-minted POY awardee sits in a unique position where he strives to bridge the gap between the government and the public sector. His aim is to achieve the common goal of inclusive prosperity by working together to produce advantageous outcomes, the Volvo distributor in the country noted. The Volvo Ironmark Award is only given to those whose contributions spell a difference in the industry and the society as a whole. Volvo PH has given the Ironmark Award since 2012 to outstanding individuals in various fields, including Manny Pacquiao, Dr. Vicky Belo, Ces Drilon, and Bea Alonzo. We continue to applaud our Ironmark Awardees as they continue their efforts to better society. For Volvo, we stand firm with our commitment to produce cars with people in mindincluding the smart and stylish Volvo XC40 and soon, a class-leading plug-in hybrid model. Together, we roll on to a future where cars help make life more comfortable and less complicated, Christopher Yu, Marketing Head for Volvo Philippines, was quoted as saying. The post Volvo PH Hails Joey Concepcion as 2018 Ironmark Awardee appeared first on Carmudi Philippines. RTHK: Christchurch terror suspect appears in court A right-wing extremist who filmed himself on a rampage that left 49 mosque-goers dead flashed a white power sign as he appeared in a New Zealand court on Saturday charged with murder. Australian-born 28-year-old Brenton Tarrant stood in the dock wearing handcuffs and a white prison smock, as the judge read a single murder charge against him. A raft of further charges were expected. The former fitness instructor and self-professed fascist occasionally turned to look at media present in court during the brief hearing that the public were excluded from for security reasons. Flanked by armed police he flashed an upside-down "okay" signal, a symbol used by white power groups across the globe. He did not request bail and was taken into custody until his next court appearance which is scheduled for April 5. A short distance away, 39 people were being treated in hospital for gunshot wounds and other injuries inflicted in the massacre. They included a two-year-old boy and a four-year-old girl, who is in critical condition. Doctors at Christchurch hospital said they worked through the night in 12 operating theatres to do what they could to save the survivors. (AFP) This story has been published on: 2019-03-16. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. "Its very unmotivating if we pass out 100 trash bags and a section still has trash on the ground. You get deflated." Michelle Booth, chairwoman of tourism for the Village of Surfside Beach Quote For me, one of the most uncomfortable moments in Leaving Neverlanda documentary full of uncomfortable momentscomes early in Part 2, when Michael Jackson, trying to reingratiate himself with the Robsons so they will testify on his behalf, calls and leaves a voicemail in a fake Australian accent. It would be noice to see a mewvie tamorroh noight, he suggests. As an Australian living in the U.S., the chummy familiarity of this moment made my skin crawl. Jackson uses the same terrible, almost-Cockney accent in his message for the Australian Robsons that many of my American friends use on me. Its a gentle and intimate ribbing, and its jarring to my ears to hear it coming from Jackson, both the weirdest and the most normal he has ever sounded. As phony accents go, its also just bad. Really, really bad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jacksons fake accent aside, the documentary is full of real, rich Aussie accents, and there are many ways that being Australian plays into Wade Robsons story. Leaving Neverland goes to great lengths to present the Robsons as an everyday Aussie family,their foreignness somewhat quaint, especially when it comes to how star-struck they were around Jackson. This little Australian boy who had had this otherworldly, impossible experience, says Robson of their first meeting, referring to his child self. His first big America trip was to dance at Disneyland for Australia Day. When Jackson eventually replaced Robson with another young boy, as he was wont to do, there was an added sting because the new boy was a fellow countryman. I remember it being particularly hard with Brett because I found out and I knew that he was Australian, says Robson toward the end of Part 1. Oh, its a new Australian boy as welllike, really feeling replaced. Advertisement Advertisement Leaving Neverland itself doesnt address the racial dynamics at play, as Jason King has pointed out here in Slate. But Robsons identity as an foreigner is on full display as it further complicates the narrative. Though he was a white immigrant from a developed country, Robsons reliance on Jackson made himand his familyparticularly vulnerable. He; his mother, Joy; and his sister, Chantal, left not just their family but their country because of Jackson, and the fact that he facilitated their immigration only further entrenched his power over them. While all of Jacksons alleged victims had their lives upended in different ways, the Robsons move to the U.S. ripped their family apart, as the brother who stayed behind tells the filmmakers, implying that it even contributed to his fathers suicide. Once in the U.S., the Robsons expected to have regular contact with Jacksonhe was, after all, the only American they knew. I definitely had some sort of idea in my head of the way this was all gonna go down once we moved to Los Angeles, that it really was going to be life with Michael, says Wade, later describing his sense of isolation after learning that Jackson had found a new favorite. Here I was, in this new place, in America, and in Los Angeles, but now its like, we were alone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joy suggests that Wades dance career was their main reason for relocating, explaining that Wade had been working pretty regularly in Australia but there was only just so far he could go there. She says that I felt if he was really going to succeed he needed to move to the United States. But by her own account, it was Jackson who first suggested her son live in the U.S., with him, as they were leaving Neverland for the first time in 1990. He said it would do wonders for his career, she says. When she rejected the idea, Jackson told her, I always get what I want. Get Slate Culture in Your Inbox We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again. Please enable javascript to use form. Email address: Send me updates about Slate special offers. By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms Sign Up Thanks for signing up! You can manage your newsletter subscriptions at any time. Whether or not they moved for Jackson, they couldnt have moved without Jackson. Though the documentary glosses over it, Jackson was vital to the Robsons immigration case. MJJ Productions hired Wade and Joy, and applied for H-1B visas on their behalf, as well as a H-4 visa for Chantalno small favor, and one that complicated their relationship. Jackson could have ended their visas simply by firing them. The fact that Jackson helped the Robsons immigrate (along with providing loans and a car) was used to diminish Joys 2005 defense of Jackson, as Seth Stevenson reported in his dispatches from the trial. Wade alluded to it again in his own 2013 lawsuit, alleging this was done by Michael Jackson, MJJ Productions and MJJ Ventures for the explicit purpose of allowing Michael Jackson access to [Robson] for sexual abuse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though other families also benefited from their proximity to Jackson (the Safechucks got a house out of it), this kind of assistance tips the power imbalance even further, beyond even the usual Jackson-victim dynamic. Jackson was the Robsons visa sponsor, their lifeline to the U.S., making them outsiders beholden to the ultimate insider. Moving to America is not easy, but Jackson offered them an entree, and Joy Robson, ultimate stage mom, took it. Compared with Stephanie Safechuck, Joy seemed particularly enamoured by the glamorous fantasy being around Jackson entailed, especially compared with life in Australia. Advertisement Much of the footage shown in Leaving Neverland from Robsons semi-famous childhood is probably unfamiliar to U.S. audiences, but with each TV interview, I felt a stab of recognition. Many of those interviewing Robson are famous faces in Australia. A younger Derryn Hinch introduces little Wade on a nightly news program: We may not have Michael Jackson on the program tonight, but we have the next best thing. Theres an irony to the fact that Hinch, now a senator, earned a name for himselfand was repeatedly convicted forpublicly naming and shaming sex offenders. Advertisement Little Wade may have been covered adoringly in the Australian media at the time, but the Australian coverage of Leaving Neverland hasnt focused much on his nationality. Robson is getting a little more attention than Safechuck in the headlines (e.g., Michael Jackson Accuser Wade Robson Reveals How Brisbane Dance Competition Led to Abuse, This Is How We Show Each Other Love: Australian Wade Robson Details Michael Jackson Abuse), but when I asked my dad back in Melbourne what TV coverage of the documentary had been like, he didnt even know one of the accusers was Australian. Perhaps that reflects the fact that, though his story is told through a range of Aussie accents, Wades is gone. Though someone suggested on this 2004 message board, long before his allegations, that the Aussie choreographer was faking his American accent, its not surprising that his native inflections have faded, given that he moved to the U.S. at age 8. Meeting Jackson changed his entire life, his identity, even the way he speaks. And though he may be finally finding his voice, Wade Robson will never get his youthful Aussie twang back. Words from a vile manifesto, written by an Australian, have been floating around the internet following the New Zealand terrorist attack that saw 49 people killed at mosques during Friday prayers. It calls Islam a savage belief and the religious equivalent of fascism. Worldwide, Muslims are killing people in the name of their faith on an industrial scale, it reads. The entire religion of Islam is simply the violent ideology of a sixth century despot masquerading as a religious leader, which justifies endless war against anyone who opposes it and calls for the murder of unbelievers and apostates. Advertisement But it wasnt written by the alleged shooter, Australian citizen Brenton Tarrant. It was written by an Australian politician. Just incredible: As 49 Muslim worshippers lay dead in New Zealand, a sitting Australian senator blames the immigration program which allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand. pic.twitter.com/13w7aAK8IR Jim Sciutto (@jimsciutto) March 15, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Fraser Anning also tweeted, even before Fridays death toll was public, Does anyone still dispute the link between Muslim immigration and violence? That link is Fraser Anning, and people like him. Anningthe Aussie Steve King, perhapsis a now-independent senator who is too racist even for the extremely racist party that elected him. Elected in 2017 as a One Nation party replacement candidate (after free speech crusader Malcolm Roberts was caught up in the citizenship debacle), Anning chose to sit as an independent, then opted to join another fringe party, until he was kicked out of that one too, for his infamous speech calling for a final solution to the Muslim immigration problem. His latest comments have been roundly condemned by everyone in Australian politicsby the prime minister, the recent exprime minister, the soon-to-be prime minister. Prime Minister Scott Morrison tweeted that Annings comments were disgusting and have no place in Australia, let alone the Australian Parliament. Advertisement Of course, they shouldnt have a placebut they do. Anning and Tarrant may be extremists, but they are extreme representatives and undeniable products of a racist Australian cultureone that is at best quietly tolerated and at worst wildly stoked by politicians, not to mention a Rupert Murdochfueled mass media. Whether its demonizing asylum-seekers, demonizing African youths, demonizing Indigenous Australians, or demonizing Muslims, racism is insidious in the mainstream culture. Advertisement Note that while Annings 2018 final solution speech was condemned, he wasnt removed from Parliament over it. A man who made an approving Hitler reference remains an Australian senator, a tacit endorsement of his bigotry. Politicians are falling over themselves to condemn Anning now, amid another open show of racism, but there seems to be no rush to condemn the dog whistle kind going on in the media every single day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The alt-right has a strong presence Down Under, inviting figures like Milo Yiannopoulos to speak and holding fascist ralliesone of which Anning defended attending earlier this year. (Anning was also expected to address a meeting of neo-Nazis with Hitler fan Blair Cottrell later this weekend.) Its alive and thriving online, a community that Tarrant was reportedly a part of. This report dives into one of the favorite memes of the Australian far right, one recently used by Tarrant both on the forum 8chan and on Twitter. It shows a highly stereotypical Aussie bloke, wearing Outback get-up, brandishing the bottle of a popular Aussie beer, with the caption hold still while I glass you. The same meme is frequently used by the Dingoes, an online group known for anti-Semitic views. Lest you think this is a murky subculture, a onetime Labor Party leader has appeared on the Dingoes podcast. That leader, Mark Latham, is now a One Nation candidate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Latham, admittedly, has fallen far in the years he has been out of politics. But this excellent tweet thread from Guardian columnist Jason Wilson, who covers the far right, chronicles the horrific racism even mainstream figures have engaged in. Remember when the Australian Senate almost passed a literal white nationalist meme? he tweeted. Remember all the free media Milo and Lauren Southern got? Remember African Gangs? Remember white farmers? Remember the Soros conspiracy theories during the SSM referendum? I dont speak for all Aussies when I say I was not surprised to learn the shooter in the mosque attack was an Australianbut I do speak for many. Tarrant may have been radicalized online, but he was emboldened by the words surrounding him on national platforms, by right-wing commentators writing in major newspapers that a tidal wave of immigrants sweeps away our national identity (this from one of the most well-known journalists in Australia). His article was called The Foreign Invasion. Tarrants manifesto is called The Great Replacement. Advertisement Advertisement Other parts of Tarrants manifesto echo words by other public figures. Australia, you may recall, is not in Europe, but Tarrant refers to himself as European and treats Australia as an outpost of Europe. One recent former prime minister seems a little obsessed with Australia being part of the Anglosphere, while Anning was ultimately kicked out of his second party for continuing to distinguish between European and non-European migration. Advertisement The nationality of the other suspects has not yet been revealed, so its hard to speculate on any extent to which New Zealands own alt-right was involved. I often tell Americans that New Zealand is Australias Canada, a better, more progressive version of Australia with a reputation as a welcoming place. The relationship between white and indigenous New Zealanders is much better than that of many colonial societies, but it still leaves a lot to be desired. Ironically, the National Front, a far-right group with only about 1,000 members, is said to have been influenced by the Canadian alt-rightthe Lauren Southerns and Stefan Molyneuxes and Jordan Petersonsto adopt a pseudo-academia, clean-cut appearances. New Zealand journalist Paula Penfold spoke to i24 on Friday, saying that while New Zealand is not known for hate crimes or mass violence, there has been knowledge of white supremacy in Christchurch for some decades now. Weve never seen violence like this, but there is a sense now that this is a situation that has been building. Advertisement As Joshua Keating noted Friday, New Zealand has had one of the fastest-growing immigration populations among developed countries in recent years, much of it from Asia. This has led to at least some political backlash, with [Winston] Peters New Zealand First party calling for immigration restrictions and accused of fomenting racism. Police clashed with right-wing nationalists who rallied outside the Parliament in Wellington in 2017. The world is again in shock, but its no surprise that Tarrant was Australian. After all, as he wrote in his manifesto, he was a regular white man from a regular family. So true. A far-right Australian senator who gained global notoriety when he blamed Muslims for the massacre in New Zealands mosques got hit across the back of his head with an egg on Saturday. And it was all caught on camera. Fraser Anning, an independent who was once part of the anti-immigration One Nation party, was talking to reporters Saturday when cameras caught a 17-year-old man standing behind the politician. The teenager then held up his phone, apparently recording the event and he suddenly slapped a raw egg on the back of Annings head. The obviously stunned lawmaker proceeded to twice punch the teenager in the face. Then a brief scuffle breaks out between the pair although bystanders stopped that quite quickly. Supporters then beat and tackled the teenager and aggressively held him in what appears to be a chokehold. The teenager was arrested but later released pending further investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the moment an egg is cracked on the head of Australian senator Fraser Anning. He's been caught in a row after appearing to blame the New Zealand mosque attack on Muslim immigration https://t.co/0mSwlQLfCt pic.twitter.com/Aa0et8ucP3 ITV News (@itvnews) March 16, 2019 Heres six morons choking the best person who ever stood in the same room as them.#eggboy pic.twitter.com/N4nnEUrCUb John Johnsonson (@JohnJohnsonson) March 16, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement The teen, who has been identified online as Will Connolly, appears to have filmed a short video after the incident warning people: Dont egg politicians. If you do, he said You get tackled by thirty bogans at the same time. I learned the hard way. Fuck. Our young hero has spoken dont egg a politician, youll tackled by 30 bogans at the same time, I learnt the hard way. Fuck we Stan #Eggboy Will Connolly, nonetheless pic.twitter.com/nAUDuKSMP0 (@chuseeme) March 16, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sitting Senator Fraser Anning has been egged by an angry youth. As of the writing of this report, the youth was taken away by Victorian police. The status of the youth is still unknown. #EggBoy #Auspol #FraserAnning #Melbourne #YARD - https://t.co/orNKIh4wlz pic.twitter.com/HgIgykar8C The Unshackled (@Un_shackled) March 16, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement The egging came shortly after Anning was on the receiving end of lots of criticism for his comments following the massacre. The real cause of the bloodshed on New Zealand streets today is the immigration program which allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place, Anning said in a statement. Anning also tweeted: Does anyone still dispute the link between Muslim immigration and violence? Advertisement Advertisement Just incredible: As 49 Muslim worshippers lay dead in New Zealand, a sitting Australian senator blames the immigration program which allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand. pic.twitter.com/13w7aAK8IR Jim Sciutto (@jimsciutto) March 15, 2019 Little wonder then that many were quick to celebrate the teenagers actions on Saturday. An Instagram that appeared to belong to the 17-year-old has been flooded with praise for the #EggBoy. Many on Twitter also celebrated #EggBoy. A fundraising page has already been set up to help the 17-year-old buy more eggs as well as for his legal fees. Advertisement Advertisement Hero of the day! His name is Will Connolly The #EggBoy 'Sometimes when you see injustice you must speak up.' pic.twitter.com/fCQlrtkgiL Mujahid Bulbul (@mujahidbulbul) March 16, 2019 EggBoy is the Hero we all need right now! FYI: This is the Australian Senator who blamed the Mosque attack on the Muslims!#Eggboy pic.twitter.com/UcneyNL7lh Ryan Hill (@RyanHillMI) March 16, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After glimpsing the headlines announcing the deadly shooting in New Zealand on Thursday night, I shut my phone off, told my wife I loved her, and went to bed. I didnt want to confront the heartbreak. I had planned on going to Friday prayers the next day, and I didnt want to think about how 49 others who had been trying to do the same had just been gunned down by a white-supremacist terrorist. But the next afternoon, I grabbed my coat, told my wife where I was heading, and hit the pavement. Advertisement As I sat inside the masjid in Brooklyn, a few rows back from the minbar, I kept making eye contact with the extra security. Volunteers stood watch at each door, greeting worshipers as they came in, scanning for anything suspicious. This particular masjid and the imam who leads the prayers have both repeatedly been the subjects of anti-Muslim hysteria online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive come here to pray many times before. The atmosphere Friday was especially tense. In the main prayer area, I usually sit and browse Twitter, or make plans with friends to meet up after, but I couldnt bring myself to do either. I didnt want to read about what had just happened in a mosque just like this one, to congregants just like the folks sitting next to me. I can usually overhear others chatting about politics, gentrification, or sports, but Friday, we all sat in silence. I shut my eyes to avoid giving the extra security any reason to focus on me. Advertisement Advertisement I didnt want to read about what had just happened in a mosque just like this one, to congregants just like the folks sitting next to me. Before the prayer, the head of security came on the intercom to address the elephant in the prayer room. In light of the news from New Zealand, he calmly gave us all instructions on what to do if something similar were to happen here. He reminded us to trust the volunteer security guards, and that theyd already once stopped a man who entered the masjid with a rifle concealed under his long jacket. I wasnt present for that, but I was around when another man brought a samurai sword to attack Muslims gathered for Friday prayer in my masjid Jersey City, where I grew up. (I hear that mosques manager keeps that sword above the door to his office now.) On the loudspeaker, the guard also reminded us that men have a responsibility to rush a shooter should they try to attack us like they did in New Zealand, in hopes of at least slowing the shooter down enough to allow the more vulnerable worshipers an opportunity to escape. Then the imam took his place at the minbar, and it was time for the Friday sermon. Advertisement Advertisement Like any imam on Friday, he was face to face with a room of wounded Muslims, who all showed up to worship despite the threat of violence. He stood where none of us could, and used the opportunity to help those present through the grieving process. He talked about death, how every prophet we Muslims believe in, from Moses to Jesus to Mohammed, couldnt escape death, and neither can we. By the end of it, the hole in my heart was filled with a feeling of defiance. I entered the mosque afraid and exited feeling proud. Advertisement Advertisement I finally got around to opening my phone. The hashtag #PeacefulMosques collected images of Muslims around the world at their mosques as if it were any other Friday. We do this to reassure ourselves and one another, but perhaps we also do it because we feel we must rebuke the characterization of our religion that has been perpetrated by none other than the president of the United States, who has pursued a virulently anti-Muslim agenda since taking office (an offshoot of what he promised on the campaign trail). It was strange to me, Friday, to see President Donald Trump sending condolences to the victims of a perpetrator who had called him a symbol of renewed white identity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every Muslim I prayed with is forced to confront targeted rhetoric meant to make us feel unwelcome on a daily basis. Friday we sat in defiance of the powerful voices that insist that a Muslim cannot be both simultaneously faithful to our religion and loyal to our country. The terrorist who attacked the mosques in New Zealand did so to make Muslims around the world afraid. He broadcast a signal to Muslims living in the West, like me, that we arent safe inside our mosques. Every Muslim who prayed Friday is a testament to that terrorists failure. The mosque was more full than usual. The white supremacist failed. Shortly after 49 people were killed in a terrorist attack at two mosques, New Zealand leaders didnt take a page from their U.S counterparts. Rather than simply offer thoughts and prayers to the victims, they made it clear that the country would act to change the nations gun laws in an effort to make it more difficult for an attack of this nature to take place again. While the nation grapples with a form of grief and anger that we have not experienced before, we are seeking answers, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said at a news conference in Wellington on Saturday morning. I can tell you one thing right now, our guns laws will change. Advertisement New Zealands attorney general, David Baker, seemed to take that one step further saying at a vigil in Auckland that semiautomatic weapons would be banned. He later backtracked though, making clear no decision has been made. Praker said he was trying to reflect what the prime minister said that we need to ban some semi-automatics, perhaps all of them. Those decisions have yet to be taken but the prime minister has signaled that we are going to look at that issue. But Ardern had said that a possible ban was one of the issues the government would consider when it will start to seriously discuss possible measures on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Zealands Police Association has expressed support for the call to amend the countrys gun laws, saying it is far too easy to access military grade semiautomatic weapons legally. We know how easy it is to get firearms in New Zealand, and while today and the next few days is the time to look after the welfare of the victims and their families, clearly we need to have a look at firearms law in New Zealand, Chris Cahill, the police association president, said. The alleged gunman was found to have used five guns that he legally purchased, including two semiautomatic weapons and two shotguns. As Slates Molly Olmstead noted, its difficult to rate New Zealands gun tolerance because some of its regulations are strict and some are lax. Even the killing of 49 people isnt enough for the president of the United States to feel it necessary to issue a full-throated condemnation of right-wing white nationalism. Although President Donald Trump obviously condemned the attack on two New Zealand mosques, he also seemingly found it important to emphasize that he doesnt think white nationalism is really a growing problem. I dont really, Trump said when asked whether he saw an increase in the threat of white nationalism. I think its a small group of people that have very, very serious problems. I guess, if you look at what happened in New Zealand, perhaps thats a case. I dont know enough about it yet. Advertisement Trump dismissed White Nationalism as a growing threat today. FACT CHECK: Every single American killed by extremists in 2018 was murdered by a white supremacist or far right extremist. Every. One.pic.twitter.com/vH9o5tX0Ln Mrs. Betty Bowers (@BettyBowers) March 15, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump did describe the attack as a horrible, horrible thing, but he didnt once extend sympathetic words toward the Muslim communities that were targeted in the attack. The commander in chief didnt just fail to reach out to Muslims around the world, he also neglected to utter a single word that hinted that he recognized how Muslims in the United States may be fearful of an attack. It was up to Trumps daughter to reach out to Muslims and issue the kind of message one would expect from a commander in chief. We join New Zealand and Muslim communities around the world in condemnation of this evil as we pray for the families of each victim and grieve together, Ivanka Trump tweeted on Friday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Trumps lack of recognition that the people who died in the attack were Muslim marks a stark contrast to how he has reacted to other mass killings that targeted a specific religious group. After the attack on a Jewish temple in Pittsburgh last year, for example, Trump openly referred to it as an anti-Semitic act. And when 28 Coptic Christians were killed in suicide bombings in Egypt in 2017, Trump talked about the merciless slaughter of Christians as a trend, warning that the bloodletting of Christians must end. Advertisement Trump didnt just fail to fully condemn white nationalism, he also seemed to find no problem in using some of the same language of the attacker as the world continued reeling from the attack. While defending the first veto of his presidency to make sure his national emergency declaration at the border continued standing, Trump used some incredible language. People hate the word invasion, but thats what it is, he said to justify his declaration that there is an emergency at the border. He seemed to have no qualms using that word even though that is exactly what the gunman wrote in his manifesto, claiming we are experiencing an invasion on a level never seen before in history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Solutions Post-Parkland By Mark Tarallo 01 April 2019 Print Issue: April 2019 On a warm and sunny Valentines Day afternoon about a year ago in Parkland, Florida, Nikolas Cruz, a former student at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School who had been repeatedly suspended and finally expelled, took a quiet Uber ride to his old school. After entering the 45-acre campus through an unlocked, unmanned entrance, Cruz loaded an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle, put on a magazine vest, and began a six-minute shooting rampage. He shot and killed 14 students and three staff members, then abandoned his weapon and fled. It was the deadliest high school shooting in American history. The horrific tragedy launched several studies and initiatives with congruent goals of determining what should be done to minimize the chances that a similar incident could occur in the future. These recent efforts contain no shortage of recommendations, but they also illustrate the complexity of the problem. One particularly comprehensive study is the recently released initial report by the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School (MSDHS) Public Safety Commission. The report totals nearly 500 pages; its findings and recommendations are vast, and its conclusions grim. Safety and security accountability is lacking in schools, and that accountability is paramount for effective change if we expect a different result in the future than what occurred at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, the authors write. Among other things, the report assesses physical security, school security policies, event response by law enforcement and others, and incident communications, as well as Cruzs troubled history. (The report also pays tribute to the 17 victims killed in the shooting, featuring a bio and picture for each.) In the physical security section, for example, the report notes that Cruz entered the campus through an unstaffed gate, one of the many gates regularly left unlocked. The overall lack of uniform and mandated physical site security requirements resulted in voids that allowed Cruz initial access to MSDHS, and is a system failure, the report finds. The report also contains dozens of recommendations, including a proposal to allow teachers to carry guns by expanding the schools Guardian program. Some of the recommendations would require action by the governor and state lawmakers, such as allowing school districts to raise taxes for security improvements. To school security expert Jason Destein, the reports scope and methodical analysis are both impressive and valuable. They did an amazing job of providing all the information they could to let the public know, says Destein, who is chair of the ASIS International School Safety and Security Council and owner of Securable Alternatives. They say, here are all the details, and the things that we should have seen but didnt. But Destein also notes that, when searching the report, the word climate appears only three times, while the word legislature pops up 19 times. Thats one thing that really sticks out to me, he says. I think it is indicative of the country itself, and not just Floridawe are trying to spend and legislate our way to safer schools. But I dont know if thats getting to the heart of the problem. Getting to the heart of the problem, Destein continues, usually requires gathering actionable intelligence about the school, including data on its previous incidents, its security program, its culture, and more, that can be used to tailor a specific security program. But instead, some officials are making generalized information decisions based on the questionable belief that the more money we can spend, the safer we will be, he explains. The Parkland shooting also sparked action from federal officials. With three school-age children of my own, I am acutely sensitive to threats of school violence. What happened at Parkland should never happen in this country, says Brian Harrell, CPP, the assistant director for infrastructure security at the U.S. Department of Homeland Securitys (DHS) Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Harrell oversees federal efforts to help defend critical infrastructure from attacks. A few years ago, his mission expanded to include school security. Many of the capabilities that we had developed for our infrastructure partners, such as active shooter awareness and preparedness training, can be readily adapted for use in schools, says Harrell, who is also an ASIS International member. In addition, the government encourages schools to review existing federal guidance materials, such as School Security: A Guide for Preventing and Protecting against Gun Violence and the Guide for Developing High Quality School Emergency Operations Plans, both issued by DHS. While each school will need to customize an active shooter preparedness plan that accounts for its unique circumstances, there are routine steps that are widely recommended, Harrell says. Those steps include physically hardening the school, engaging in community planning, encouraging and facilitating suspicious behavior reporting, conducting training and exercises, maintaining effective communications systems, and establishing threat assessment teams, he explains. The Parkland shooting also spurred officials to form the Federal Commission on School Safety to research and recommend school safety solutions. In December 2018, the commission released its 180-pagefinal report, which is divided into three broad categories: preventing school violence; protecting students and teachers and mitigating the effects of violence; and responding to and recovering from attacks. Each category contains best practice recommendations. For example, the first category on prevention features guidance on creating a positive school climate; improving access to mental health counseling; operating outreach programs for threat reports; and developing a media plan. Improving school safety cannot focus solely on mitigating incidents of violence. Successful efforts must improve the culture in which students live and learn, the authors write. Destein says the federal report has many strengths, including the emphasis on school climate (the word climate appears more than 30 times in the DHS report, he adds). I like the report. There is a lot of emphasis on prevention, which I am all for, he says. But the challenge, he continues, is in trying to accurately measure climate. The report recommends climate surveys developed by the U.S. Department of Education, which may not be sufficient, he explains. Surveys are great, but I dont think surveys alone are enough, Destein explains. Here again, Destein says detailed data is needed on actual incidents that impact the true nature of school conditions, and this data can be used as actionable intelligence. If you want to improve the school climate, you have to get some good information, and break these categories down to the lowest levels possible. Its kind of like retail security, he explains. In its conclusions section, the federal report opposes age restrictions on gun purchases but supports the possibility of denying certain individuals the ability to possess a firearm through the process of extreme risk protection orders. And finally, the MSDHS report calls for more officials and administrators to recognize the exigency of the situation. There must be a sense of urgencyand there is not, across the boardin enhancing school safety. Surveillance Issues The exhaustive MSDHS report contains 14 chapters of findings and recommendations. Virtually every aspect of the schools response and security program was assessed. Here is one examplethe critique of schools camera surveillance system. On the day of the shooting, dozens of exterior cameras were in use throughout the schools 12 buildings and 45-acre campus, the report finds. However, external cameras did not capture Cruzs arrival on campus as he walked across the parking lot to Building 12. Thirteen cameras were located within Building 12three on each floor at the east and west ends of the hall, and two located in each stairwell. However, there were no cameras located inside the classrooms in Building 12. A camera located in the east stairwell of Building 12 captured Cruz entering the building and preparing his weapon. It also captured a short exchange Cruz had with a student before the shooting began. According to the report, Cruz was next seen leaving the stairwell and entering the first-floor hallway, where he immediately began shooting. Recordings from various cameras showed Cruz as he moved down the hallways and fired into classrooms and at those in the hall. Cameras also showed Cruz climbing and descending stairs. There was a several-minute gap between the time Cruz entered and left the third-floor teachers lounge, because there were no cameras in the lounge. Overall, although camera coverage of the shooting was extensive, the report found two key surveillance-related problems. One was a lack of staff training in camera system operation. Most school personnel were inadequately trained in how to operate the MSDHS camera system. This lack of familiarity and training adversely affected law enforcement response, the report finds. The other problem was a school district policy that does not allow live or real-time remote access to the campus video systems by law enforcement. Law enforcements inability to independently live view the cameras hindered the law enforcement response and caused safety issues because they were unable to determine if Cruz was still in the building, the report finds. This delay also hindered victim rescue and medical response. Robert Gilpin, R.I.P. - The Washington Post : His greatest book was written in 1981, but the main theory in it is perhaps more trenchant now... 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. Who will replace Andrej Kiska as the head of state for the next five years? News: Receive favorite authors articles by email. Try the new feature and turn on the subscription. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Slovaks are in the process of electing the successor to Andrej Kiska in the first round of presidential elections. The polling stations opened at 7:00 and will close at 22:00. The moratorium will last longer than expected, until 23:15. The reason is an incident in the village of Medzany (Presov Region), when a local man took the urn and scattered its content on the street. Since it is possible to read the ballots, the election results should not be affected, said Eduard Barany, chair of the State Election Commission. If none of the candidates receive a majority of valid votes, the two candidates with the highest number of voters will proceed to the second round, scheduled for March 30. Read also: Read also: Presidential campaign reveals that Slovakia is calling for change Read more The first, preliminary results will be published on the website of the Statistics Office (www.statistics.sk) or at www.volbysr.sk shortly after 23:16. The official results are expected to be published on March 17, after they are confirmed by the Central Election Committee. The Slovak Spectator will be posting updates on its website during the night and after the official results are confirmed. Who is running? There are about 4.45 million eligible voters, who can choose from 13 candidates altogether (in alphabetical order): Bela Bugar Zuzana Caputova Eduard Chmelar Martin Dano Stefan Harabin Marian Kotleba Milan Krajniak Frantisek Miklosko Maros Sefcovic Robert Svec Bohumila Tauchmannova Juraj Zabojnik Ivan Zuzula Who can attend the elections? Every Slovak citizen who has reached the age of 18 on the day of the elections can vote for the president. Voting is only possible on Slovak territory though. Read also: Read also: Presidential election: The Church could not have sent a clearer message Read more Slovaks living abroad can take part in the elections, but only if they are in Slovakia on the day they are held. The election committee should inscribe them on the voters list and also make a note in their passport, as the law stipulates. The turnout in the first round is expected to be higher than in previous elections, amounting to between 50 and 60 percent. In the past three presidential elections, the figure was no higher than 50 percent. The schedule for the Internets favourite harness racing handicapping show, North American Harness Update, is set for Friday, March 15. Host Ray Cotolo will be joined by Mike Pribozie and Rod Allums Jr. to provide live coverage of the Pick 4 from The Raceway at Western Fair District and the Meadowlands Racetrack. The three will also preview the opening round of the George Morton Levy Series on Saturday, March 16 at Yonkers Raceway. The Hanover Hustler Russ Adams from Rosecroft Raceway will also come on to preview racing action from Rosecroft for Sunday, March 17 including their signature Pick 3. North American Harness Update airs Fridays from 9-11 p.m. (EST) on SRN One as well as on video livestream on Facebook Live, Periscope and YouTube, and can be accessed by archive via the YouTube page or from our website, nahupicks.com, the day after it airs. (North American Harness Update) All participants and those interested in the Prince Edward Island Standardbred industry are invited to attend an Industry Seminar on Saturday, March 23 at the Rodd Charlottetown, 75 Kent Street, Charlottetown. There will be sessions of interest to breeders, owners, trainers, drivers, officials, and fans. The Breeder sessions will begin at 10:30 a.m. followed by a complimentary noon luncheon, and an address by Hon. Heath MacDonald, PEI Minister Responsible for Harness Racing. Other racing oriented sessions will be held in the afternoon. A complete schedule will be posted on peiharnessracing.com. 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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 Akamai's Larry Cashdollar joins us to describe an exploit he recently came across while researching MageCart incidents. It's a remote command execution vulnerability affecting ThinkPHP, a popular web framework. The original research can be found here: 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. Ad Start Engine Knightscope Kicks Off Public Listing to Trade on NASDAQ Knightscope, Inc., a developer of advanced physical security technologies focused on enhancing U.S. security operations, has commenced its offering of up to $40 million of Class A common stock, with shares to be listed immediately following closing on NASDAQ under the ticker symbol KSCP." A place to exercise ideas before writing about them with greater discipline. The sextoy market is growing quite rapidly in India right now. Although it is not a big trend, it is a hot topic on the internet as it is secretly expanding its market. In this article, we will focus on sextoy and introduce recommended sextoy for Indian beginners of sextoy by gender. India, the birthplace of the Kama Sutra, is very strict about sex. Also, premarital sex is basically not allowed. Therefore, there are many people who are sexually restricted. But what happens when you continue to be sexually restricted? Frustration may build up and you may end up taking your sexual stress out on your partner. If you are able to adopt sextoy in a timely manner, you can get rid of those problems. I want to have more exciting sex than Im having now. I want more variation in masturbation I want to get even stronger pleasure than I do on my own. If you have any of these problems, please stay with me until the end. What is sex toys for Indian? Sextoy, as the name implies, is a toy used during sex and masturbation. It is a generic term for vibrators, Egg-vibrators, Electric massagers, dildo, handcuffs and condoms. They are used to make regular sex more exciting or to make masturbation more pleasurable. Because sextoy is very stimulating, it can help you to get rid of the problems and frustrations of being in a rut of sex with your partner for a long time, or if you are unhappy with the lack of pleasure in sex with your partner. The ability to satisfy your desires with movement, texture, and size, which cannot be done by a normal human being, can help you to be satisfied with sex and, as a result, improve your relationship with your partner. It is also said to help improve sexual dysfunction (inability to get an erection or ejaculate) and difficulty in feeling during sex (insensitivity), which is attracting more attention than in the past. In recent years, the demand for sextoy has increased due to the spread of smartphones and the Internet and the increasing number of people using online shopping. Even those who are concerned about the appearance of sextoy (and find it difficult to purchase) can now easily obtain it by using mail order. In the case of online shopping, most of the stores have taken steps to ensure that the contents of the products delivered to you are not revealed, so you can purchase them without your family members knowing. Until a while ago, you had to go to the store where the adult goods were sold to buy them, so it was quite a hurdle to overcome. Also, many people may have an image that sextoy is somehow embarrassing to own. But nowadays, some of them are so stylish and cute that you cant believe they are sextoy at a glance. More and more people are using them for travel and outdoor use because they are not too bulky and are suitable for carrying around. Sextoy situation in India Before introducing the recommended sextoy for Indians, lets talk about one of the sextoy situations in India in recent years. In India, due to the high concentration of population, the following six cities have particularly high sales of sextoy in India. Mumbai Kolkata Bangalore Delhi Chennai Hyderabad These cities account for roughly 70 percent of sextoy sales in India. In the future, the percentage of sextoy use will gradually increase in other cities in India as well. If you never talk about sextoy publicly, that girl in your neighborhood might be a sextoy user too. If you are interested in sextoy, you dont have to suppress your desire for it. What are Sextoys for beginner? Among all sextoys, sextoy for beginners are vibrators, dildo, masturbators, Sex Lubricants, and condoms. Sex Lubricants and condoms, which are familiar to people who have had sex, are also a great beginners sextoy. I will explain the details of each toy later, but there are many sextoy products that are painful to use and can only be used after some anal expansion. I assume that the Indian readers of this article are people who have not had much experience with sextoy. If such people use professional sextoy suddenly, they are at risk of injury or trauma. Therefore, to introduce sextoy, you need to start with a beginners version and gradually become familiar with it. Advantages of using sextoy for Indians There are three advantages of using sextoy for Indians You can masturbate in a wide variety of ways. Can have stimulating sex Can develop new sexual zones If you try to masturbate with your own fingers or hands, it tends to be a pattern. However, with sextoy, you can easily masturbate in a variety of ways. You will definitely be fascinated by the attraction of new stimulation. Also, your daily sex life will be more exciting than ever. There are many things in sextoy that are visually stimulating and give you a strong and intense feeling of pleasure. This allows you to see your partners promiscuity in a way that you wouldnt normally see it. When you are in a relationship, sex with your partner may become a pattern, but it can also eliminate these problems. It can also lead to the development of new sexual zones (which is the training of sexual stimulation to allow you to feel orgasms). For more information on the development of new sexual zones, see the following articles [Women's Erogenous Zone]How to find and develop, 7 hidden sexual zones !![In India] In this issue, we will dissect the female erogenous zone! ..." Many of you may be like that. Men, in particular, shou... Thus, the use of sextoy can only be a good thing for the men and women of India. Sextoy for beginner men in India So, lets continue with the recommended goods for Indian sextoy beginners. For ease of understanding, we will introduce them by gender. Lets start with the men! The following five goods are recommended for novice Indian sextoy men Masturbator Cock rings Love Doll Sex Lubricants Toys for the prostate Lets check each one in detail. Masturbator The masturbator is a sextoy for men that elaborately reproduces a womans vagina, mouth, and anus, and is one of the most popular sextoy products. It is used by men to masturbate, and it is popular because it provides stronger stimulation and pleasure more easily than using hands. Most are made of good quality silicone, and their softness is something that cannot be achieved with ones own hands. They can provide stronger pleasure than a real womans vagina, so be careful not to overuse them. (You wont be able to have an orgasm in a womans vagina anymore.) Again Male masturbators are a wonderful toy. I do not need any favourite timing, bothersome bargaining. You do not have to worry too much. Revolutionize your masturbation time! ! ! Made in Japan is a wonderful kinky toy.#sextoysindia #SexToyIndia #Japanhttps://t.co/4k70QGzoTP pic.twitter.com/tRVdxTKPpa SEXToys India PR (@SextoysIndia) November 12, 2018 Some of them are disposable, while others can be washed and used over and over again, so its fun to buy a few to use depending on your mood. If you want to know more about masturbator, please click here Really pleasant male masturbation and how to do it Are you in a rut with your daily masturbation routine? I'm going to show you five ways men masturbate that you might ... [For Beginners] How to choose and use a male masturbator without fail Gentlemen.Have you ever used a masturbator? The person who sees this article is probably the one who has not experien... Cock Ring A cock ring is literally a ring-shaped sextoy that is worn on a mans penis. It maintains an erection by binding the penis with a ring of rubber and blocking blood flow. It is sometimes used as an accessory to be worn on the penis, and may be made of metal or plastic as well as rubber. In some cases, cock rings have parts or vibrators attached to them that stimulate the vagina, so they kill two birds with one stone, giving a woman pleasure while maintaining an erection. Cock rings are also sometimes used to treat erectile dysfunction. It can help with erectile dysfunction, where the penis doesnt get hard when you get an erection or doesnt last long when you try to insert it. Men who are prone to breakage or who are unsure of the hardness and size of their erections can use a cock ring to increase the size of their penis and maintain an erection for a longer period of time. Cock rings vary in price from around RS700 to over RS2000 with a vibrator function. Some of them do not fit your penis, so you should check the size of the cock ring before you buy. You should know the size of your partners or your own penis when it is erect. [Penis enlargement] What is a cock ring? Types and usage Cock rings can make your penis bigger and harder. It also makes sex with women more fulfilling and increases your sat... Love Doll Love dolls, also known as Dutchwives, are dolls with the appearance of a woman who can experience simulated sex. There are dolls that look like a woman, but they have no face and only have their breasts and lower torso cut off, and some dolls are so realistic that they can actually be mistaken for real women. Some expensive dolls can cost more than 1 million yen, and the quality of the doll is easily influenced by the price. The higher the price, the higher the quality of the doll will be, the closer it will be to the real woman, and the cheaper the doll will be, the less elaborate it will be, making it look like a real doll! Something is wrong! That is also true. You cant go wrong if you choose a balance between price and taste. There are stores that allow you to make custom-made love dolls, so you can create a girl of your choice. You can make a girl of your choice. You can start with inexpensive love dolls at first, and once you get used to it, you can try custom-made love dolls. If you want to know more about Love doll, please click here Thorough explanation of the charm of sex dolls! Have you ever heard of sex dolls that are used primarily for pseudo-sex purposes? It is a doll that is quite close to... Sex lubricants Sex lubricants are used as a substitute for lubricating fluid during sex or as a lubricant for men to use masturbator rules. It is not uncommon for women to have difficulty getting wet, depending on their physical condition, or to have difficulty getting wet due to their constitution. Forcing the penis into the vagina at such times can cause painful intercourse. There are various types of Sex Lubricants, some with a warming effect, some with a cooling effect, and some with a scent. Changing the Sex Lubricant used during play is recommended as a good sex accent. If you want to learn more about Sex Lubricants, click here. What is sex lubricant?Explain the difference and usage of each ingredient The word "sex toy" may seem like a hurdle to overcome, but lotion is actually one of the most familiar sex toys. Many... Toys for the Prostate Another sextoy for men is prostate toys. The most famous prostate toys include Enemagra, which was originally a prostate massager developed by an American urologist to treat an enlarged prostate line. Modern prostate toys are imitations of Enemagra that have spread as sextoy for men. Many people think of prostate toys as being used by gay men, but in fact they are often used by straight men. What is the prostate? The prostate is an organ found only in men. It is a walnut-sized organ located deep in the pelvis, just below the bladder, and its primary role is to protect and nourish sperm. You cannot touch the prostate gland from outside the body, but you can touch it by inserting a finger or sextoy through the anus. By inserting a finger or sextoy through the anus and touching the prostate and developing it, you can feel intense orgasms. Orgasms felt in the prostate are mainly dry orgasms, which are orgasms that do not involve ejaculation. (You can also feel orgasms with ejaculation through prostate stimulation.) The prostate is called the male G-spot, and dry orgasms can be much more intense than ejaculation. Therefore, men who are able to develop a prostate can become addicted to the pleasure. sextoy for beinner women in India The following are the recommended goods for Indian women who are new to sextoy. The following three are recommended for use by women who are new to sextoy. Vibrator. Dildo Electric Masserger Lets check out what each one is in detail. If you want to check out womens toys, click here. [BEST25]Sex Toys for Women in IndiaThat Can Help You Have an Orgasm There are many women who pretend to feel orgasm during sex. But don't worry, you don't have to pretend to feel orgasm... Vibrators A vibrator is a sextoy that vibrates with an Egg-Vibrator to provide stimulation and is often referred to simply as a vibrator. Some vibrate as well as rotate, and there are many variations of sextoy. It is quite a popular sextoy, and is well recognized by people who do not know much about sextoy. Its usage is similar to that of a massager, but it is more compact and easier to carry than a massager, and many of them look as cute as a lipstick or a macaroon, so they are popular among women. For a while, a famous influencer on twitter said, This is good! You may have heard of the topic of this article by introducing the recommended vibrators. Vibrators are great for women to use on their own, but they are also recommended for men who have difficulty satisfying women with sex. Since it is powered by electricity, it is far less tiring than moving your hands by yourself. This makes it easier to satisfy a woman with sex because you can caress her for longer than usual. Vibrators are mainly used on the female side, but they can also be used on men. When used on men, they are used to attack the nipples and glans, and in both cases it is recommended to wear a condom for hygiene reasons. Introducing how to use the vibrator, its purpose, and how to choose it! Vibrator uses the vibrations caused by the rotation of the motor to provide stimulation. It is one or two of the most... Dildo A dildo is a model sextoy made to mimic a male penis. It can be made of silicone, elastomer (think of it as a material similar to PVC), metal or glass. A dildo can be used by a man for his female partner during sex, or by a woman for masturbation to get pleasure from it. They are mainly inserted into women, but some can be used in the male anus as well. It is sometimes used synonymously with vibrators, but the vibrator is not the same thing as a vibrating device. A model of a penis that does not vibrate is a dildo. Some of them have suction cups that can be attached to the floor or wall so that you can enjoy realistic masturbation without using your hands. For fun, there is a dildo made in the shape of your partners penis. This one is also popular as a gift, and if youve been together for a long time and are having trouble finding a gift for your partner, you might want to pick one. To learn more about dildo, please click here. What is Dildo: Orgasms with Dildos for Men and Women A dildo is a model of a male organ that is used by women for masturbation and by men to stimulate the prostate gland. Th... Electric Masserger A Electric Masserger is a hand-held electric massager, also known as a handheld massager, and can usually be purchased at electronics stores. It was originally designed to relieve stiff shoulders and back pain, so the hurdle of buying one in a physical store is quite low. Many people may have seen or used it in some form or another, as it is often installed in leisure hotels. Such a massager is highly recommended for beginners because it is easy for women to get pleasure from it when they use it during masturbation. It is larger than Egg-Vibrator and vibrations are stronger than those of Egg-Vibrators and vibrators, so even just hitting the clitoris can give you a great deal of pleasure. For those women who have never had an orgasm during sex with their man, the massager may be a good way to get a feel for what it feels like to have an orgasm. It looks and feels like an electric massager, so you wont have to feel awkward if your roommate finds out. If you are in a rut of having sex with your partner, if you want to feel an orgasm through masturbation, or if you are thinking of using a sextoy, why dont you try it from a simple massager? To learn more about Electric Masserger, click here. What is a massager? Introducing types, selection methods, and usage Originally, the Magic-wand vibrator and the massage machine were sold as a home massage machine used for the back and th... How to choose a sextoy for Indian Now that weve covered the different types of sextoy, heres how to choose one. Especially if you are trying sextoy for the first time, pay attention to the following three points: Does the size fit you (the partner)? Does the size fit you (your partner)? Is the environment able to produce sound without problems? Price range First of all, the choice of size is quite important. Most sextoy are used against or inserted into the genitals, but the genitals are very delicate organs for both men and women. For this reason, using an inappropriate size may cause damage. Secondly, the environment should be able to produce sound without problems. Some sextoys not only wear, but also rotate and vibrate. Its easier to get pleasure from something that moves than something that doesnt, but the fact that it moves means that the internal rotors make some noise. If you live in a house with thin walls or if you have roommates, you may not be able to concentrate because of the noise, so it is best to choose one that is silent or has a low noise level. Especially in India, where many people live with their families, it is very important that you dont have to worry about sound when you use it. Finally, there is the price range. The price range of sextoy ranges widely, from around RS500 at the cheapest to RS10,000 or more at the highest. Its good to consider how much money you can afford and how much you want to buy. Do you want your family to not find out about sextoy? I live with my family and want to use sextoy without them finding out! If you are a man, you should buy a camouflage sextoy that does not look like a sextoy at first glance. For men, there are many masturbators that do not look like a sextoy, and for women, there are vibrators that only look like cosmetics. If you choose such a type, youll be safe in case your family members find out. How to buy sextoys in India The best way to purchase sextoy is through online shopping. For more information on how to purchase sextoy, please see the article below. Sextoy is one of them. Therefore, you can easily get sextoy in India by using online shopping. SexToysINDIA is a long established and stable sextoy store and you can have sextoy delivered to any place in India. They also offer cash on delivery, so those who are worried about shopping with a credit card do not have to worry. Of course, the latest security is in place, so your information will not be taken out when you use your credit card. To begin with, many people may be concerned about whether they are legally allowed to purchase sextoy. ikmAs it turns out, its not illegal. Right now, it is not open to the public because the Indian adult market is still in the development stage, but it will gradually spread from now on. Take advantage of sextoy and open the door to new pleasures and culture. Cautions for Indians using sextoy When using sextoy, keep the following three things in mind Keep sex toys clean Watch out for electrical leakage Beware of the heat generated by the body while using a sex toy As I mentioned earlier, many sextoy products are used for the delicate zone. Therefore, it is most important to keep the sextoy itself clean. It is very important to keep the sextoy itself clean, because if a slight scratch is created by friction, bacteria can enter and breed there. It is safe to wear a condom when using the masturbator, just in case. In addition, many sextoy devices are powered by a power source, so if they are not waterproof, there is a possibility of electric shock or malfunction due to wetness. Some may even develop heat during continuous use. If the fever becomes too much, you may get burned, so be careful. If you get a fever during use, stop driving the sextoy immediately and refrain from using it. You will enjoy sex more if you keep it safe and use it correctly. Summary What did you think? In this article, we have introduced the recommended sextoy for the beginners of sextoy in India. The sextoy market is growing rapidly in India and it will continue to grow steadily in the future. As India is a rather closed-minded country, it can be difficult to be open about ones sexual habits and values. However, being faithful to ones desires by properly dissolving ones sexual desire is very effective for ones physical and mental health. If this is your first time to learn about sextoy, or if you are interested in using sextoy, why not give it a try? Indian Sextoys for ur best! will introduce you to sextoy and other trivia about sextoy, sexuality, and sexuality for men and women. I want to read more! If you think its a great idea, please bookmark it. On Monday afternoon, the municipal council of Luxembourg City discussed the future of the capital's churches. The city's authorities will take over the management of 21 of the churches and the remaining two will fall under the jurisdiction of the Church fund. The two churches to be attributed to the Church fund will be the chapel on the Glacis and Kirchberg's Chapel of Notre-Dame. As the mayor of Luxembourg City Lydie Polfer explained, the municipal authorities are currently in the process of negotiation with the Church. The diocese wants to keep all the churches. In return, the municipal council proposed a future rent for religious buildings, which would be 1,500 per year. Larger religious buildings would have a rental cost of 2,000 per year and the cathedral, which also belongs to the city's authorities, would have an annual cost of 2,500. As for the unused rectories, Polfer proposed that the city would use them as social housing. "Friday's for the Future" - under this slogan, thousands of Luxembourgish students are currently protesting for climate action in Luxembourg City. Twitter is ablaze with #FridaysForFuture and #ClimateStrike posts as tens of thousands of young people across the world set off to march for the climate. A comprehensive list of events can be found on fridaysforfuture.org. From Glacis to Knuedler At 11am, the first students arrived and prepared ahead of the march. The above photo gallery will update with the most recent photos. Around 12.30 pm, the students started marching from Glacis to Place Guillaume II (Knuedler) in the city centre. Since 1.15 pm, large numbers are gathering at Knuedler. Earlier on Friday, police estimated that approximately 3000 students were participating. The estimated number later ballooned to 7500 participants. According to organisers of the events, up to 15,000 students have taken to the street to protest. Grey skies but optimistic atmosphere Ignited by role models like teenage climate warrior Greta Thunberg, many students showed themselves optimistic and expressed hope that the strikes would make a difference. One of the young protesters, Aurelia, said she felt "proud to stand up for our future generations." Another teenage protester, Mihika, stressed that she felt "proud to make sure mine and my friends' future will be in a better place." Mara, a 17-year-old secondary school student, also optimistically saw the protests as "a great initiative to raise awareness about the climate crisis." "I really hope," she added, "that the masses of students that participated today will be taken seriously and that there will be the necessary political change." Cars removed from the Glacis As the police warned, cars were forbidden from parking at the Glacis car park to allow the marchers to assemble. Consequently, some cars have been towed from the area, as seen in the photos below. The photos published on this site are subject to copyright and may not be copied, modified, or sold without the prior permission of the owner of the site in question. Politicians welcome initiative Minister for the Environment Carole Dieschbourg and Minister for Energy Claude Turmes welcomed the students' initiative and expressed their support. Both politicians highlighted that the situation was urgent and that climate action needs to be taken seriously. They also explained that students would have their say when it comes to working out the the national climate and energy plan. Travel information The march will begin moving from the Glacis car park towards Place Guillaume II. As a result, Avenue Porte Neuve and Grande Rue will be completely closed to traffic to allow the protesters to walk along the route agreed upon by the organisers, the police, and the city's municipal authorities. The police have consequently advised motorists to avoid the area entirely. There will also be no parking at the Glacis car park to allow students to assemble. VDL.lu has warned that disruption on their entire bus network will last between 10am and 5pm due to the march. Some bus stops will be temporarily cancelled. Luxembourg City Buses (AVL) personnel will be on hand to guide public transport users. The below Facebook post shows the exact route of the march. Surrounding roads are likely to be affected too. Controversy: European School prohibits students from striking In an interview with our colleagues from RTL5minutes, one of the student organizers of the strike explained that the school board of the European School had prohibited the students from striking. "They do not respect the strikes at all," she said. Even though not all students will respect the decision, this may reduce the turnout, she explained. The ten first stationary speed cameras were installed by the government on 16 March 2016. An additional 14 fixed speed cameras have since followed, adding up to 24 throughout the Grand Duchy. Six mobile cameras and one construction site camera are also operational. According to Luxemburger Wort, who have quoted the numbers from the police, the cameras have flashed a of 798,000 times in three years including 250,000 last year alone. Vehicles with Luxembourgish number plates are the most frequent offenders, on average. As you may have heard, the mobile speed camera on the A4 towards Esch was in the news recently as it caught 5,000 drivers in just 48 hours. A new speed camera which measures vehicle's average speed between two points will most likely arrive in Luxembourg in autumn. First tests will take place on the A7 between Waldhof and Gonderange. In addition, another fixed speed camera will be operational this year still, between Grosbous and Hierheck. Manila has been hit by its worst water shortage in years, leaving bucket-bearing families to wait hours to fill up from tanker trucks and some hospitals to turn away less urgent cases. Taps are dry from four to 20 hours per day in the homes of about half of the Philippine capital's roughly 12 million people due to rolling outages driven by a dearth of rain and inadequate infrastructure. "I have learned to take a bath using only seven pitchers of water," Ricardo Bergado told AFP as he lined up with his buckets. "I even save the bath water to flush our toilet." Bucket-bearing families wait hours to fill up from tanker trucks and some hospitals to turn away less urgent cases in Manila / AFP The shortages started hitting late last week, with some areas in eastern Manila seeing the supplies of water into their homes being completely cut off. However, Manila Water Company, one of the capital's two suppliers, said it will now use rolling cut offs spread across the city to share the pain more evenly. Jerry cans and buckets were flying off store shelves and landing in lines where families were spending hours waiting for deliveries by truck. The disruption could last until July when monsoon rains are typically in full swing and would replenish regional reservoirs, one of which is at a two-decade low / AFP "Instead of doing important things, our time is consumed now by making sure we have enough water," Bergado, a 57-year-old audio-technician told AFP. At least five public hospitals in the capital have started getting supplemental supplies from water tankers, as shortages had led at least one to limit admissions. "This is the worst (water shortage) we have experienced. It almost happened last year but we were saved by heavy rains brought by storms," Dittie Galang, Manila Water communications manager, told AFP. The government has admitted that the problem of growing demand for water has long been forecasted but they failed to address it due to delays in projects that would expand capacity / AFP The disruption could last until July when monsoon rains are typically in full swing and would replenish regional reservoirs, one of which is at a two-decade low. Better known for flooding from its frequent typhoons, the Philippines is experiencing a dry spell that led to reserves being severely depleted. At the same time, the ageing pipelines and dams that provide Manila's water have not kept pace with the growth of the mega-city, which has roughly doubled its population since 1985. The shortages started hitting late last week, with some areas in eastern Manila seeing the supplies of water into their homes being completely cut off / AFP The government has admitted that the problem of growing demand for water has long been forecast but they failed to address it due to delays in projects that would expand capacity. "We need an alternative water source and we need it yesterday," Patrick Ty, chief of Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System, told ABS-CBN television. Among the main projects in the pipeline is the construction of $355-million Kaliwa Dam, a Chinese-funded project that met resistance from indigenous peoples and church leaders for its feared effects on communities. Ali Bongo of Gabon does not have a body double, his spokesman said Thursday, brushing aside rumours that a lookalike has been standing in for the 60-year-old president since he suffered a stroke in October. "There's no body double," Ike Ngouoni told a news conference, the first since Bongo fell ill. "The president is indeed there. He's the one on the job." He said there was "no reason to be concerned" about Bongo's health, while noting that "adjustments have been made for the head of state, who has gone through an unusual time." Bongo, who is convalescing in Morocco, has returned to Gabon only twice since falling ill, staying less than 48 hours each time. There has been no word on when he will return home definitively. In early January Bongo survived a brief coup attempt by army rebels while in Morocco. Gabon is notoriously rumour-prone, and the president's prolonged absence has prompted speculation about his health, as well as the possible existence of a stand-in. Late last month Bongo led a cabinet meeting during which a raft of appointments were announced and several close aides were dismissed -- but no media were on hand for the event. He also went for a ride through the capital Libreville, waving at people through the car window. "The president was there in flesh and blood. He went around the city... a lot of people can attest to that," Ngouoni said in answer to a question. The African swine fever (ASF) epidemic has spread to 17 localities in Vietnam and is bringing about serious damage to the countrys pork market that is worth up to US$10 billion a year. As of Thursday, more than 23,440 pigs have been disposed of in 221 communes and 52 districts of 17 provinces and cities across the Southeast Asian nation. During an urgent meeting on the afternoon of the same day, Vietnams Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Nguyen Xuan Cuong stated that the disease is threatening multiple key areas in the country, including the Red Mekong Delta, northern mountainous provinces, and southern region. If the epidemic spreads to all of these areas, the consequences will be extremely serious, Cuong said. It will take a long time for the pork industry to recover. Pigs infected with African swine fever are disposed of in the northern province of Quang Ninh. Photo: Thanh Truong / Tuoi Tre According to the Animal Husbandry Association of Vietnam (AHAV), about three million pigs, equivalent to 300,000 metric tons, are consumed across Vietnam every month. Since the first ASF outbreaks were recorded one and a half months ago, pork prices have decreased across the country, especially in northern Vietnam, where most of the affected localities are located. Financial damage has reached up to VND5 trillion ($215 million) during this period, not to mention the expensive costs needed for disease prevention and disposal of injected pigs. Local market research companies estimated that the pork market in Vietnam is worth approximately $10 billion a year. The epidemic has also had negative impact on Vietnams pork exports, as many countries have banned the products since Vietnam announced the situation, said Gabor Fluit, business group director Asia of De Hues LLC. The Chinese General Administration of Customs said on Tuesday China has banned imports of pigs, wild boars and related products from Vietnam in the wake of the Southeast Asian countrys series of ASF outbreaks. Some other expert companies believed that Vietnams pork export will continue facing challenges in the coming time, as experience of other countries showed that it takes tens of years to completely eradicate the disease. The damage is expected to continue rising given the complicated development of ASF, said Nguyen Tri Cong, president of the Dong Nai Husbandry Association, located in the namesake southern province. Dong Nai currently has 2.5 million pigs, the largest number in the country. A farmer in Dong Nai Province sterilizes his pigs. Photo: Quang Dinh / Tuoi Tre Competent authorities have been taking all possible measures to protect pigs in the province, said Huynh Thanh Vinh, director of the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. The Department of Animal Health under the agricultural ministry warned that the epidemic has been spreading to many northern localities and is likely to head south despite all efforts. The WHO advised that the best way to alleviate the situation is to ensure biosecurity in husbandry. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Your browser does not support the audio element. Dr. Luong Ngan, a member of the Tay ethnic minority from Vietnam, was recently named one of the youngest course directors at the UK-based London South Bank University, where her distinguished academic record helped earn her a promotion to the head of the schools post-graduate marketing management program. Before joining London South Banks faculty, Ngan earned a degree from the Hanoi Foreign Trade University, one of Vietnams most prestigious academic institutions. The 33-year-old scholar hails from the northern Vietnamese province of Cao Bang, a mountainous province known for its tranquil landscapes and rich history. But despite Cao bangs beauty, life in the rural province, particularly for someone with an ethnic minority background, isnt easy. The urge to rise Ngan belongs to Vietnams Tay ethnic community, a minority group based around the treacherous mountain slopes in northern Vietnam. Like the vast majority of the countrys 54 ethnic minorities, the Tay people speak their own language and live in relatively homogeneous communities, two characteristics which have kept them somewhat isolated from the outside world. Speaking a different language makes it particularly hard for ethnic students to engage in the national education system, where standard Vietnamese is the status quo. Ngans own personal story is fraught with setbacks. As a child, her family chose to move away from their ethnic minority and start a business in a nearby city. Of course, the transition was not easy. Ngan spent her first three years of school doing her best to catch up to her peers, but her poor understanding of the Vietnamese language left her with little more than low academic scores and tremendous stress. Little by little, however, support from her community helped her to pick up the language and she began to turn things around in school. From then on, she made it a point to be the first to show up in class. Several years later, when it came time to take the annual university entrance exam a compulsory test for graduating high school seniors she fell short of her goal. Way short. In fact, she failed the exam. But Ngan refused to let the setback get in the way of her dreams. The following year she took the test again and earned a seat at Hanoi Foreign Trade University, an institution known for its high admission standards. After graduating from university, Ngan found a stable, well-paid job but knew she wanted more. Her dream was travel outside of Vietnam and see what the world had to offer. She applied and was accepted to a Masters program at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, Scotland and then went on to earn a Ph.D. from the University of Birmingham, in England. Now, Ngan is course director of the post-graduate marketing management program at London South Bank University. Despite a prerequisite of having at least three-year worth of experience in the trade in order to take on the position, Ngan was able to leverage her Ph.D. and intricate understanding of marketing theory in order to convince the Universitys administrators that she was the right person for the job. Supplied photo of Dr. Luong Ngan Challenges and merits Though Ngan has had her fair share of hardships in life, she still considers her first winter in the UK as one of her most difficult experiences. Coming from a tropical climate, the stark contrast of the dark winter days sent her into a state of homesickness. An issue which was only exacerbated by the menial part-time jobs she was forced to work in order to make ends meet. But now that her efforts have paid off, Ngan refuses to let go of her persevering spirit. She manages to divide her time between her management, lecturing, and researching responsibilities, all while still squeezing enough time in on weekends to catch up with her own personal network of friends. And even with her success, she still holds her homeland of Vietnam near and dear to her heart. She does her best to make social contributions to causes which benefit Vietnam and often contributes to funds and international projects in her homeland. Among her visions, is the well-drafted plan to bring Cao Bang, her hometown, to the forefront of the tourism scheme in Vietnam. Ngan and her contacts are currently formulating a plan to build a geographic park in Cao Bang Province, named UNESCO Terra Nova, hoping that it will promote sustainable tourism and raise environmental awareness amongst locals. Though she loves working in the UK, Ngan shared that Vietnam will always hold a special place in her heart. Pride in origin Ngan says she has never been embarrassed about her ethnical origin, nor has she needed to be. Though her upbringing included a considerable amount hardship, she remains proud of her Tay bloodline. To Ngan, it is more important to judge people on their talent, rather than where they come from. She hopes that her academic success will help pave the way for her to contribute to her people so that the next generation will be able to access all the opportunities the world has to offer. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A separation performed on conjoined twin boys in the south-central province of Ninh Thuan grabbed local headlines in late 2013. One of the twins passed away shortly after the surgery, while the other is now a seven-year-old struggling to stay healthy. Nguyen Hoang Phi Long and Nguyen Hoang Phi Phung were born on September 25, 2012 in Ninh Thuan, attached at the chest, pelvis, and heart. When the twins reached 14 months old, their parents decided it was time to attempt the complex, 12-hour surgery in which 70 doctors would separated the pair. Though Phi Long was able to adapt to life post-surgery, Phi Phung passed away just a few months after leaving the operating room. A mothers love During her 25th week of the pregnancy, Nguyen Hong Lam, the mother of the twins, was told that there was a complication with her pregnancy the twins were conjoined. Though faced with a difficult decision, Lam chose to continue with the pregnancy, despite the risks. We were determined not to abort our babies, she said. A day after birth, Phi Phung began experiencing respiratory distress and the newborns had to be immediately transferred to the Childrens Hospital 2 in Ho Chi Minh City, one of southern Vietnams largest pediatric hospitals. While Phi Long was deemed in good health, Phi Phung was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a dysfunctional right lung, an issue with a suspensory ligament, and several other problems. I lost a lot of blood during the delivery and was completely unconscious after going through labor, Lam shared. By the time I woke up my children had already been transferred to a hospital in Ho Chi Minh City. It wasnt until a month later that the mother was finally able to travel to Ho Chi Minh city to see her babies for the first time. Though a separation surgery was needed, doctors at the hospital chose to wait 13 more months in order to give the children time become stronger before the long and complicated surgery. Consultations and conferences were held between doctors at the Childrens Hospital 2 and experts from all the world and finally, after 14 months of life, the babies were ready to head to the operation room. A 12-hour surgery On November 26, 2013 a team of 70 doctors and nurses at Childrens Hospital 2 in Ho Chi Minh City successfully separated the conjoined twins Phi Long and Phi Phung after a 12-hour surgery. Doctor Truong Quang Dinh, then the hospitals vice director, who directly participated in the surgery, said the surgery was like looking for a miracle. Even though the surgery was successful, being separated from Phi Long, the healthier twin, was a struggle for Phi Phung as now he had to generate his nutrients independently instead of getting them from Phi Long as before. In the end, he was unable to adjust to the separation and passed away on February 23, 2014, just a few months after the surgery. In the last moments of Phi Phungs life, his twin brother turned to him and placed a kiss on his cheek. Only when Phi Phungs heart stopped beating was his mother able to hold him for the first time. I havent been able to hold him since he was born because he was being kept in the isolated area of the hospital, Lam explained. That was the first and the last time I held him. Phi Phung is now rests at a cemetery near the familys house. But even if he was far away, Phi Long would never forget his brother. When people ask where Phi Phung is, Phi Long says that his brother passed away, Lam said. When Phi Long looks at photos from before the separation, he can tell which baby is Phi Phung. He points to his brother and says This is Phung! Phi Long being held by one of the nurses two months after the surgery. Photo: My Lang / Tuoi Tre Home in a hospital At 17 months old, Phi Long was finally after to leave the hospital for the first time, but the confusion of being a in a new place left him in tears. After nearly a year and half at the Childrens Hospital 2, it had become home. The doctors warned us to pay attention to the air quality to guarantee the babys breathing, Lam recalled of the struggle to adjust to the familys new life. We also had to help Phi Long get used to the difference between day and night because hospital lights are kept on 24 hours a day. We had to keep the lights on at night for him because he would start crying whenever we turned them off, she continued. Marks of being a conjoined sibling still remain on Phi Longs body. His head is still slightly tilted to the side after being attached to Phi Long for 14 months and scars still remind on his torso. Lam had to arrange the pillows in a special way so that Long could get used to sleeping on his back and the child spine was bent from spending so long in unhealthy positions while attached to his brother. The most challenging task though, according to Lam, was getting Long to eat. Because he was so used to the milk he was being fed by doctors, he was unable to digest anything else and would throw up every time his mother tried feeding him rice or congee, like most other child at his age eat in Vietnam. At first I did not know how to feed him because this was my firstborn and for the past 17 months by that time I hadnt been the one taking care of him, Lam recalled. To finish eating a spoon of rice would take him 20 minutes. It was not until later that he was able to eat two spoons. But that was his maximum. Phi Long in his home town. Photo: My Lang / Tuoi Tre Even now, at the age of seven, Phi Long only eats only a spoon of rice each day and often vomits. He can chew other foods such as fish, meat, and vegetables, but if he swallows he vomits. Since the only thing his body accepts is milk, it is very difficult for Phi Long to grow and gain weight, so at the age of seven, he only weighs 13 kilograms. When Phi Phung was still alive, the nurses fed expensive milk to both boys, Lam said, adding that a box of the milk would cost a few hundred thousand dong, but after he got home we could not afford to feed him the milk he was used to, Lam said. (US$1 = VND 23,000) I started feeding him cheaper milk when he was over two years old, the family said adding that even now it is financially challenging for them to properly take care of their son. It has been five years ever since we returned to Ninh Thuan but we still dont have enough money to take him back to Ho Chi Minh City for a medical checkup. Now, Phi Long also has a chubby baby sister with the same eyes as her twin brothers. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! At just 16 years old, while most girls her age were out roaming shopping malls or hanging out in parks, Penny, an eleventh grader at Saigon South International School, was choosing to spend her weekends working on a charity project aimed at helping the blind regain their sight. Penny, whose real name is Pham Thien Tam, has spent the last few years waking up at 4:30 am each weekend morning to prepare for a long day with her mother and friends helping other at the Nguyen Trai Eye Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City. The groups project, named See Again, is aimed at raising funds for optic surgery expenses at the hospital so that needy patients are able to undergo the procedure free of charge. The dream of light Penny was first inspired to start See Again after volunteering at a cost-free optic surgery event held by the Ho Chi Minh Citys association for the poor. Almost immediately, the then ninth-grader knew she wanted to follow suit. When they [the needy] removed their bandages and began to weep with joy as they saw daylight again, I was so happy! Penny recalled. Social charity and volunteering is somewhat of a tradition in Pennys family, and the young girl had no problem handing over her pocket money in order to make even a small contribution to those in need. But after a year of donating small amount, Penny knew she needed to think bigger and decided to expand her charity. An average cataract removal surgery costs roughly VND10-30 million (US$426.83-1280.5), but thanks to a group of doctors who volunteer to operate on needy patients free of charge, the price quells down to VND700,000 (US$29.88). Though the price drop is considerable, it still remains out of reach for many. After calculating the amount of money she had saved and adding it to the cash her relatives were willing to donate, Penny declared she would do her best to help cover the cost of 500 operations in 2018. Penny. Photo: See Again Project Her father, Pham Duc Trung Kien, who himself has spent the last 20 years helping blind students attend college, convinced his daughter to double her goal to 1,000. Determined, Penny began writing letters of appeal in both English and Vietnamese to everyone she knew, hoping at least a few would donate to her project. During the fundraising process, The Vietnam Foundation helped connect Penny to a philanthropist who promised to double Pennys fund, no matter how much she raised. Finally, after earning enough money to fund her project, Penny turned to her peers at school to help direct and maintain the project. Every Sunday, the team gathers at Pennys house to discuss their next moves and craft the handmade items they sell as part of their fundraising efforts. The project has since gone viral at her school. And their hard work has paid off. Their humble starting goal of sponsoring 500 cataract surgeries was smashed when they exceeded their expectations and funded a whopping 2,2000 operations in 2018. Hoping to keep up the momentum, the students at See Again have now set their sights on sponsoring 3,000 surgeries in 2019. Penny (secon righ) and other members of her project. Photo: See Again Project Future plans Pham Thi Nam, 76, from the southern province of Long An, still recalls visiting Ho Chi Minh City in 2016 to have her left eye operated on with funding from the See Again project. Vibrant life came back to me so quickly after the surgery, she said. Had I not received treatment that day, I would have been blind for good. Catriona Moran, the head teacher at Saigon South International School, remarked that she is proud of Penny and her friends for their social service. I was there when they were drafting plans and preparing to launch the project, Moran said. I was really impressed at their positive outcome, as they not only deliver the sight back to the needy, but also shower society with love and care. Despite her groups success, Penny underlined that the current issue shes dealing with is how to maintain the project in the future. Soon I will study abroad and my friends will graduate. Now, more than ever, we need to find aspiring underclassmen who are willing to take on the role, she added. Penny also revealed that after graduation she hopes to work towards becoming an ophthalmologist, a dream Penny has had since long before starting the See Again project. Penny. Photo: See Again Project Ever since Penny first found out that her father was suffering from an untreatable disease that will rob him of his eyesight and, the young student has been in a race to help as many people as she can who have been robbed of their sight. To Penny, everything shes done and everything she hopes to do is a way of paying it forward and helping those in need. And she feels as if she was born to do it. Even her name, Penny, is in honor of a woman in Colorado who spent her lifetime helping countless people in need, including her father. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Dozens of kindergarteners in the northern Vietnamese province of Bac Ninh have tested positive with pork tapeworm in less than a month as their parents blame dirty school meals for the mass infection of unprecedented scale. The bizarre food safety scandal unraveled last month when cooks at Thanh Khuong Kindergarten in Bac Ninh discovered what appeared to be larvae in pork provided by the schools food supplier on two separate occasions on February 14 and 20. After learning of the news, parents of three students took their kids to the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases in Hanoi to test for worms on March 7. Two of the three kindergarteners were found to be infected with pork tapeworms, according to a hospital official. Their parents took to social media to warn others of the infectious disease, leading to a drove of over 300 students at Thanh Khuong Kindergarten being taken to Hanoi for blood and stool tests this week. Over 170 of them were tested at the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases, while the remaining135 were tested at the National Institute of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology. Teachers spoon-feed students at Thanh Khuong Kindergarten in Bac Ninh Province in northern Vietnam in this file photo. Photo: Vietnam News Agency It was the largest number of tapeworm tests the hospital had had to carry out in such a short period, said Nguyen Van Kinh, director of the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases, at a press conference on Friday. As of Friday afternoon, 57 students had tested positive with pork tapeworm infection while 50 more are awaiting results, Kinh said. It is not immediately clear whether the infected children had caught pork tapeworms from their school meals. A delegation of officials and experts from the National Institute of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology will be in Bac Ninh this Sunday to investigate the cause of the mass tapeworm infection. Nguyen Van Kinh, director of the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases in Hanoi. Photo: Lan Anh / Tuoi Tre Human infection of pork tapeworm relies on eating unaudited, undercooked pork or on ingesting faecally contaminated water or food, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Ingested tapeworm eggs develop to larvae in various organs of the human body and can cause neurological symptoms, including epileptic seizures, when they enter the central nervous system, WHO warns. Pork tapeworm is the cause of 30 percent of epilepsy cases in many endemic areas where people and roaming pigs live in close proximity, according to the same source. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Here are todays leading news stories: Society -- The Vietnamese Embassy in New Zealand has affirmed that there is no report on any Vietnamese victims in the shooting attacks in Christchurch, New Zealand, on Friday, the Vietnam News Agency reported. -- A planning project to renovate the downtown area of Da Lat, the capital of the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong that is famous for its ancient and romantic charm, was announced by the provincial Peoples Committee on Friday. -- Owners of real estate kiosks along sidewalks in Lien Chieu District, the central Vietnamese city of Da Nang, are forced to demolish the illegally-built constructions within 24 hours after receiving requests from the municipal Peoples Committee, administrators ruled on Friday. -- Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc on Friday chaired a meeting on the plan to administratively upgrade Sa Pa a famous resort area in the northern province of Lao Cai to a district-level town, highlighting the its important role to the provinces development. Business -- A ceremony was held at the SP-ITC International Container Terminal in Ho Chi Minh Citys District 9 on Friday to welcome the 40,000 DWT (Deadweight Tonnage) MS EAGLE, the biggest container ship to have docked at the southern Vietnamese metropolis. -- AAX2, the first container ship route connecting Ho Chi Minh City and Australia was inaugurated on Friday, allowing ships to transport goods directly from SP-ITC International Container Terminal in the Vietnamese citys District 9 to Sydney / Brisbane / Townsville in Australia and vice versa within 16-18 days. -- Forty-one passenger speed boats that fail to meet traffic safety standards are forced to temporarily suspend all operations on Ha Long Bay, off the namesake city in the northern province of Quang Ninh, starting from Friday, March 15, the Ha Long Peoples Committee said the same day. -- Vietnam now ranks fourth globally, first in Southeast Asia and second in Asia in terms of exports of seafood, and its products are now available in over 170 countries and territories worldwide, Tran Dinh Luan deputy director general of the Directorate of Fisheries under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development said during a press briefing in Hanoi on Friday. Lifestyle -- A 15-day project to give a fresh look to the Ngo Mon Gate at the Hue Imperial Citadel by applying an eco-friendly and chemical-free way of cleaning steam cleaning was initiated in Hue, the capital of the central province of Thua Thien-Hue, on Friday morning. -- Vietnams National Press Festival 2019 kicked off in Hanoi on Friday, attracting 85 centrally-run press agencies and local journalist associations. -- A photo capturing a Vietnams Hmong woman carrying her son on her chest taken by Malaysian photographer Edwin Ong Wee Kee won the US$120,000 grand prize of the Hamdan International Photography Award (HIPA) in Dubai earlier this week for evoking the intense hope and a sense of strength from the speech-disorder Vietnamese mother for her children. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A video showing a little boy almost run over by a bus in a street in north-central Vietnam has sent chills down the spine of many as it was uploaded on social media on Friday. An official from the administration of Quynh Lien Ward of Hoang Mai Town in Nghe An Province confirmed to Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper later the same day that the incident took place in the locality, involving a first grader known only as D. and a bus operated by a local cooperative. D. was walking home from school at around 10:50 am on Friday, when he suddenly ran across the street, paying no attention to a bus speeding from behind. As seen in the nerve-wracking video, the boy was almost reaching the other side of the road, when he was slightly hit by the bus and fell down to the ground. However, he was seen standing up almost immediately and walked away. The six-year-old had the driver of the bus, Nguyen Van Tuan, to thank, as the man managed to swerve his vehicle just in time to avoid a fatal accident. The Quynh Lien official said the young student only had some bruises after the incident. Tuan was driving at a speed of 44kph when he saw the boy running over the street without paying any attention to the traffic, he recalled. The driver had to pull his brake and tried to veer the vehicle away to avoid hitting the jaywalker. The boy must have been startled by the loud honk from behind and decided to run across the street to avoid being run over, Tuan said. Tuan said he now feels even more relieved knowing through the boys father that he is in stable condition. I was thinking of the worst-case scenario when I saw the boy fell down in front of my bus, the driver said. I breathed a sigh of relief seeing him stand up from the fall. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Your browser does not support the audio element. A remote, poverty-stricken hamlet situated in the northern mountains of Vietnam has been hard at work educating its citizens about the dangers of drug use in a bid to defend the community against the grip that opioid addiction has taken on its people. Buoc Pat Hamlet lies in the flanked valleys of Son La Province, just miles from the Vietnam-Laos border. For generations, its villagers, mainly ethnic Hmong people, have made a living by farming and trading contraband, particularly drugs brought over from Laos where opium use is a major issue. Now, local leaders are taking a shot at educating the community in the hopes of relieving the burden of addiction from future generations. A recipe for devastation Shortly before the sun begins to rise over the mountains near Buoc Pat, local Hmong people start to flock to the hamlets center, drawn in by a bonfire in front of Village Chief Mua A Cangs house. The bonfire is a weekly event for locals. Telecom companies have yet to move in on the area, so these gatherings are a means of staying connected and up-to-date on community news. As usual, Cang, 37, opened the meeting by updating everyone on the current harvest season and the community goals for the coming week. And then he turned his head towards the youth in the crowd. Changing his tone from an emcee to lecturer, he warned them against the dangers of drugs and the grip theyve taken on the community. Drug use has always been a major issue Buoc Pat Hamlet. Mua A Lu is a local 17-year-old who is considered a rarity amongst his peers hes one of the few youth in the area who have never tried opium. Mua A Lus isnt shy about his disdain for drugs. He openly shares that his parents became addicted to opium shortly after they began working in Laos and eventually spent their life savings on the substance. His older brother has also fallen victim to opium, but in a much different way hes currently doing a 12 year stint behind bars for smuggling drugs. In order to provide for himself and his younger sister, Mua A Lu left school after grade six. Though its common for rural Vietnamese to leave school early, being an ethnic minority whose first language is Hmong, not Vietnamese, means that most depend on education to learn the national language. As a result, Mua As ability to speak with non-Hmong is low and making negotiations with Vietnamese merchants is difficult. Even if life is hard, I will never turn to drugs! Mua A Lu firmly stated as he shared his story. When asked whether he would go over Laos to find work, the youth vehemently declined. It is easy to get addicted to drugs once you are in Laos. I will not go there, he said. Self-imposed regulations According to Mua A Cang, there are countless locals who have been killed by or given jail sentences for drug use or smuggling. Many have also return to substance abuse after finishing their rehab. To the impoverished people of Buoc Pat, the allurement of money stemming from drug trafficking is irresistible, especially when only a mountain stands in their way between here and the drug hotspots in Laos, Mua A Cang explained. Mua A Cang and his family are also victims of heroin addiction. His father was addicted for 25 years straight a situation which sent his family into poverty. When he finally hit the dirt in 2012, this time, it was Mua A Cangs nephew that was imprisoned for 20 years due to heroin smuggling. [My nephew] could not resist the charm of money. My elder brother was also sentenced to nine-years in jail because of drugs, Mua A Cang said. Mua A Cang is therefore more than motivated to encourage villagers to refrain from using drugs. The village chief also seeks help from other prominent figures in the hamlet in order to sway the youths from relying on the substance for money. Mua A Su, 31, secretary of the hamlets Youth Union, is among those who stand up for the idea. As many of the older generations died of drugs, there is no need to have any more of the younger generations getting involved in this perilous cycle, Mua A Su affirmed. In order to exterminate use and circulation of drugs for good, local authorities have spread knowledge about the addictive substance among the villagers, whereas the border guard unit have helped take care of local children, so their parents can work on the farm. Sending the next generation to proper schooling, so that they in turn willingly stay away from addictive, is also among the initiatives being taken. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! By Trend: There are 5,209,420 voters in Azerbaijan, Chairman of the countrys Central Election Commission (CEC) Mazahir Panahov said at the CEC meeting March 15, Trend reports. He said that 50.83 percent of voters are women and 49.17 percent are men. He stressed that by the end of May, it is planned to complete the process of clarifying voter lists. Hundreds of people have taken part in an anti-racism march and rally in Glasgow. The Stand up to Racism (SUTR) event saw crowds gather in the citys George Square before a march through the streets. A minutes silence was also held at 11am to remember those killed in the New Zealand terror attacks. A statement from Unite the Union Scotland said: All of us who campaign and work for a world free from fear, hatred and bigotry must redouble our efforts. The current political climate has created an environment where racism has once again reared its ugly head. Solidarity to all those marching in the anti-racism demo in George Square, Glasgow today. Come join us 11am! An injury to one is an injury to all. TSSA will always oppose racism and fascism in any form and we are proud to be there today. pic.twitter.com/DjbLD9iI7i TSSAScotland (@TSSAScotland) March 16, 2019 It continued: There has been a rise in far-right, racist and xenophobic attitudes which has been given oxygen by some of the current debates surrounding the decision by the British public to leave the European Union. There is an urgent need for all decent-thinking people to come together under a banner of democracy and equality to stand against those that try to divide us. The message is clear; lets stand together to promote tolerance, acceptance and equality. Unite pledges to play our full part. Anti-racism campaigners march through the streets of Glasgow (Victoria Mitchell/PA) Some of the crowd chanted we stand with Christchurch as they entered the square. A number of SUTR rallies were held around the UK. There was a heavy police presence as the Glasgow event got under way. A petition, backed by Glasgow Fight Racism Fight Imperialism (FRFI) and Glasgow Palestine Human Rights Campaign, had been launched online ahead of the rally to try and prevent the Confederation of Friends of Israel in Scotland (COFIS) and Glasgow Friends of Israel (GFI) attending. A number of counter-protesters were kept at the other side of George Square, away from the main rally. Mourners pay their respects at a makeshift memorial near the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand, Saturday, March 16, 2019. People across New Zealand are reaching out to Muslims in their communities and around the country the day after mass shootings at two mosques that left dozens of people dead. (AP Photo/Mark Baker) A three-year-old boy was among the 49 victims killed in terror attacks in New Zealand. Three-year-old Mucad Ibrahim is one of several children killed in the anti-Muslim atrocity, which targeted two mosques in Christchurch. Brenton Tarrant, 28, from Australia, appeared to have live-streamed the attack on two Christchurch mosques, while reportedly outlining his anti-immigrant motives in a manifesto posted online. On Saturday, Tarrant appeared in court charged with murder. Christchurch Hospital chief Greg Robertson said that seven of the 48 gunshot victims admitted after the shootings had been discharged. Mr Robertson said a four-year-old girl who had been transferred to an Auckland hospital was in critical condition and 11 patients who remained in Christchurch were also critically wounded. We have had patients with injuries to most parts of the body that range from relatively superficial soft tissue injuries to more complex injuries involving the chest, the abdomen, the pelvis, the long bones and the head, he said. Many patients will require multiple operations to deal with their complex series of injuries, he added. He said a two-year-old boy was in stable condition, as was a 13-year-old boy. Mourners pay their respects at a makeshift memorial near the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand, Saturday, March 16, 2019. New Zealands stricken residents reached out to Muslims in their neighborhoods and around the country on Saturday, in a fierce determination to show kindness to a community in pain as a 28-year-old white supremacist stood silently before a judge, accused in mass shootings at two mosques that left dozens of people dead.(AP Photo/Vincent Yu) Several of those killed or wounded in the shooting rampage at two New Zealand mosques on Friday were from the Middle East or South Asia, according to initial reports from several governments. Bangladeshs honorary consul in Auckland, Shafiqur Rahman Bhuiyan, said that so far three Bangladeshis were among those killed and four or five others were wounded, including two left in a critical condition. One leg of an injured needed to be amputated while another suffered bullet injuries in his chest, Mr Rahman Bhuiyan said. He declined to identify the dead or wounded. The number of Jordanians killed in the New Zealand mosque shootings has risen to three after a wounded man died of his injuries. Jordans Foreign Ministry announced the death on Saturday. The ministry said a Jordanian diplomat is on his way to New Zealand to coordinate with local authorities. Story continues In the immediate aftermath of Fridays attack on two Christchurch mosques, the Foreign Ministry had announced that two Jordanians were among the 49 people killed, and that eight Jordanians had been wounded. Mohammed Elyan, a Jordanian in his 60s who co-founded one of the mosques in 1993, was among those wounded, as was his son, Atta, who is in his 30s, according to Muath Elyan, Mohammeds brother, who said he spoke to Mohammeds wife after the shooting. He said his brother helped establish the mosque a year after arriving in New Zealand, where he teaches engineering at a university and runs a consultancy. He said his brother last visited Jordan two years ago. He used to tell us life was good in New Zealand and its people are good and welcoming. He enjoyed freedom there and never complained about anything, he added. Im sure this bloody crime doesnt represent the New Zealanders. Pakistans Foreign Ministry said four Pakistanis were wounded, and Ministry spokesman Mohammad Faisal tweeted that five other Pakistani citizens were missing after Fridays attacks. Malaysia said two of its citizens were hospitalised, and the Saudi Embassy in Wellington said two Saudis were wounded. Indias high commissioner to New Zealand, Sanjiv Kohli, tweeted on Saturday that nine Indians were missing and called the attack a huge crime against humanity. Indian officials have not said whether the nine were believed to be living in Christchurch. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said at least three Turkish citizens were wounded in the attacks in New Zealand and that he had spoken to one of them. Afghanistans ambassador to Australia and New Zealand said two Afghans were missing and a third person of Afghan origin was treated and released from the hospital. Egypt said four Egyptians were among those killed in the shootings. The emigration ministry said on Saturday that authorities in New Zealand have the deaths, including two 68-year-olds. The ages of the other two victims were not given. Two Indonesians, a father and son, were also among those shot and wounded, Foreign Ministry spokesman Arrmanatha Nasir said. Mr Nasir said the father was being treated at an intensive care unit and his son was in another ward at the same hospital. He declined to identify them. Reuters People aged 14 and under in 2027 will never be allowed to purchase cigarettes https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/how-will-new-zealands-lifetime-ban-cigarette-sales-work-2021-12-09 in the Pacific country of 5 million, part of proposals unveiled on Thursday that will also curb the number of retailers authorised to sell tobacco and cut nicotine levels in all products. "We want to make sure young people never start smoking so we will make it an offence to sell or supply smoked tobacco products to new cohorts of youth," New Zealand Associate Minister of Health Ayesha Verrall said in a statement. "If nothing changes, it would be decades till Maori smoking rates fall below 5%, and this government is not prepared to leave people behind." French authorities began a clean-up operation on Friday after the Italian container ship Grande America sank off the French Atlantic Coast while carrying 2,200 tonnes of heavy fuel. Despite poor weather conditions, four ships began a clean-up operation on Friday afternoon. The 214-metre-long vessel sank on Tuesday, 300 kilometres west of the French town of La Rochelle, carrying 2,200 tonnes of heavy fuel.Their efficiency totally depends on the weather, said French maritime authorities. While two oil slicks had already been spotted on Wednesday and Thursday, a new one was spotted on Friday during a surveillance flight. The new slick was observed near the area where the vessel sank and "seems to confirm that there is still a release of heavy fuel oil from the wreck", which lies at a depth of 4,600 metres, French maritime authorities added.Forecasts show fragments of the slick reaching parts of the Atlantic coast by Sunday or Monday.2,000 cars, 365 shipping containers on boardThe ship was sailing from Hamburg, Germany, to Casablanca, Morocco, when a fire broke out on Sunday.In addition to 2,200 tonnes of heavy fuel the "Grande America" had on board, it was also transporting 2,000 cars and 365 shipping containers, 45 of which held dangerous materials, including a hundred tonnes of hydrochloric acid and 70 tonnes of sulphuric acid.All 27 people on board were safely evacuated before the vessel sank."[This shipwreck] is problematic," said Christian Buchet, director of the Centre of Ocean Studies at the Catholic Institute of Paris, in an interview with RTL."Everything that burned -- the containers, the drums of hydrochloric and sulphuric acid -- that doesn't disappear. It goes up into the atmosphere."The cause of the fire is unknown, but it is believed to have broken out on the car deck before spreading to a container, according to Jean-Louis Lozier, head of the regional maritime authority."Dilution in the ocean would not have serious consequences for the environment," Lozier said.He added that the pollution risk posed by the chemicals "would be very localised".But not everyone agrees."The major threat for the ocean is acidification," explained Buchet. "The ocean absorbs our pollution and it is dying because of it."The French environmental campaign group Robin des Bois (Robin Hood) said it intended to file a criminal complaint over the environmental damage."Two thousand vehicles -- it's a car crash at the bottom of the sea, representing hundreds of tonnes of toxic materials in an area very rich in fish, plankton and marine animals," said the NGO's spokesman Jacky Bonnemains, adding he also feared coastal pollution. Local authorities have opened an investigation.But Yannick Jadot, a French member of the European Parliament and environmental activist, believes that not enough has been done to prevent such disasters."It's tragic, the laxity that often exists regarding maritime transport," Jadot said, adding that the oil slick would be "tragic for the French coast".The last spill off the French coast occurred in December 2011, when the cargo ship TK Bremen ran aground in northwest France, losing an estimated 70 tonnes of fuel.(FRANCE 24 with AFP) French authorities began a clean-up operation on Friday after the Italian container ship Grande America sank off the French Atlantic Coast while carrying 2,200 tonnes of heavy fuel. Despite poor weather conditions, four ships began a clean-up operation on Friday afternoon. The 214-metre-long vessel sank on Tuesday, 300 kilometres west of the French town of La Rochelle, carrying 2,200 tonnes of heavy fuel. Their efficiency totally depends on the weather, said French maritime authorities. While two oil slicks had already been spotted on Wednesday and Thursday, a new one was spotted on Friday during a surveillance flight. The new slick was observed near the area where the vessel sank and "seems to confirm that there is still a release of heavy fuel oil from the wreck", which lies at a depth of 4,600 metres, French maritime authorities added. Forecasts show fragments of the slick reaching parts of the Atlantic coast by Sunday or Monday. 2,000 cars, 365 shipping containers on board The ship was sailing from Hamburg, Germany, to Casablanca, Morocco, when a fire broke out on Sunday. In addition to 2,200 tonnes of heavy fuel the "Grande America" had on board, it was also transporting 2,000 cars and 365 shipping containers, 45 of which held dangerous materials, including a hundred tonnes of hydrochloric acid and 70 tonnes of sulphuric acid. All 27 people on board were safely evacuated before the vessel sank. "[This shipwreck] is problematic," said Christian Buchet, director of the Centre of Ocean Studies at the Catholic Institute of Paris, in an interview with RTL. "Everything that burned -- the containers, the drums of hydrochloric and sulphuric acid -- that doesn't disappear. It goes up into the atmosphere." The cause of the fire is unknown, but it is believed to have broken out on the car deck before spreading to a container, according to Jean-Louis Lozier, head of the regional maritime authority. Story continues "Dilution in the ocean would not have serious consequences for the environment," Lozier said. He added that the pollution risk posed by the chemicals "would be very localised". But not everyone agrees. "The major threat for the ocean is acidification," explained Buchet. "The ocean absorbs our pollution and it is dying because of it." The French environmental campaign group Robin des Bois (Robin Hood) said it intended to file a criminal complaint over the environmental damage. "Two thousand vehicles -- it's a car crash at the bottom of the sea, representing hundreds of tonnes of toxic materials in an area very rich in fish, plankton and marine animals," said the NGO's spokesman Jacky Bonnemains, adding he also feared coastal pollution. Local authorities have opened an investigation. But Yannick Jadot, a French member of the European Parliament and environmental activist, believes that not enough has been done to prevent such disasters. "It's tragic, the laxity that often exists regarding maritime transport," Jadot said, adding that the oil slick would be "tragic for the French coast". The last spill off the French coast occurred in December 2011, when the cargo ship TK Bremen ran aground in northwest France, losing an estimated 70 tonnes of fuel. (FRANCE 24 with AFP) Lupita Nyongo paid homage to her latest onscreen character in spooky contact lenses [Photo: Getty] Actress Lupita Nyongo is not one to put a sartorial foot wrong and last night, the Hollywood heavyweight gave a lesson in the art of dramatic red carpet dressing. Eschewing tradition, the 36-year-old paid fashionable homage to Jordan Peeles newly-released horror, Us, in an aptly-hued red sequin dress by Attico at the London premiere. The Kenyan-Mexican actress paid sartorial homage to new psychological thriller Us on the red carpet [Photo: Getty] To finish the vampy wrap-around number, she sported a pair of metallic Aquazurra heels another covetable accessory on our lust list. READ MORE: March 2019s best dressed celebrities But as if that wasnt enough to secure her position as one of this years greatest style muses , Nyongo threw a surprising pair of spooky lenses into the mix. Yes, in a fitting tribute to onscreen character, Red, the actress frightened paps with a smokey eye, wicked lips and bloodshot eyes. READ MORE: Celebrity red carpet poses decoded Though its not the first time Nyongo has sought inspiration from the silver screen, as she pulled off a series of warrior-inspired looks to promote 2018s buzziest film, Black Panther. Story continues The 36-year-old pulled off a series of powerful looks while promoting Black Panther in 2018 [Photo: Getty] At the Los Angeles premiere back in January 2018, the actress wore a heavily embellished gown by Atelier Versace on the red carpet. Courtesy of its sweeping regal chiffon skirt and boundary-pushing harness, the look soon garnered a spot as one of the best celebrity ensembles of the year. A heavily-embellished Balmain number also proved a hit with fashion critics [Photo: Getty] While a seriously high thigh-split Balmain dress worked wonders across the pond, as Nyongo scored more points with the London fash pack. The actress latest flick, Us, follows the tale of a family who head to a beach house to spend time with close friends but their holiday makes a surprise turn, when a group of strangers who are also their doppelgangers show up on the doorstep. Nyongo who plays the role of mother Adelaide and Adelaides doppelganger Red described the film as a nightmare from from Jordan Peeles mind. Us is showing in cinemas across the UK now. Watch the latest videos from Yahoo Australian man Brenton Tarrant has been charged with murder following Fridays Christchurch mosque shootings. The suspected murderer alleged to have carried out a terror attack which killed 49 innocent Muslims appeared to make a white power gesture in court. Brenton Tarrant, 28, from Australia, appeared to have live-streamed the attack on two Christchurch mosques, while reportedly outlining his anti-immigrant motives in a manifesto posted online. On Saturday, Tarrant appeared in court charged with murder. While in court, handcuffed Tarrant made hand gesture by connecting his thumb and forefinger. Reports suggest this symbol in known among white supremacist communities. Tarrant was remanded until April 5 and police confirmed that more charges were likely to follow. It took 36 minutes from the first emergency call on Friday before the suspect was in custody, New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush said. Tarrants residence, in Dunedin, is currently being searched for evidence as the investigation continues. A total of four people were arrested following the massacre one of whom was in possession of a firearm but with the intention of assisting police and was released a short time later. Mr Bush said two of those in custody were arrested at a cordon, and that police were working to establish whether they had had any involvement in the incident. A man places a candle at a flower tribute area at Botanical Gardens in Christchurch, New Zealand, March 16, 2019. REUTERS/Edgar Su On Saturday, Christchurch Hospital said 39 people remained in hospital, 11 of them in intensive care. Four people died en route to the hospital, while a four-year-old girl was transferred to a hospital in Auckland in a critical condition. The majority of the patients are male aged 30 to 40, while two of them are boys aged two and 13, said Greg Robertson, chief of surgery at the hospital. Of the 48 people admitted on Friday, seven have been discharged. Twelve operating theatres worked through the night, said Mr Robertson. Many of those injured will need multiple returns to surgery. Of those killed in the massacre, 41 died at the Masjid Al Noor mosque on Deans Avenue in central Christchurch, seven were killed at the suburban Linwood Masjid Mosque, and one person died at Christchurch Hospital. Story continues People react at a flower tribute area at Botanical Gardens in Christchurch, New Zealand, March 16, 2019. REUTERS/Edgar Su In the video live-streamed by Tarrant, a man inside a mosque appears to say Welcome brother as a gunman approaches. A number of improvised explosive devices found on a vehicle after the shootings were defused by police. Mr Bush, who had earlier called the attack a very well-planned event, said the suspect was not known to police either in New Zealand or Australia. New Zealands prime minister Jacinda Ardern has vowed to reform gun laws since the mosque terror atrocity, as current legislation allowed the suspect to have a Category A gun licence, enabling him to legally obtain semi-automatic weapons. Ms Ardern said the firearms used in the mosque shootings appeared to have been modified. She said: New Zealanders will question how someone can come into being in possession of weapons of this nature. The guns used in this case appear to have been modified. Thats a challenge police have been facing and a challenge we will look to address in changing laws. She added: There are a raft of issues on the table that I think we need to look at. We need to include modification of guns which can lead them to becoming essentially the kinds of weapons weve seen used in this terrorist attack. Officers responded to reports of shots fired in central Christchurch at about 1.40pm local time (12.40am GMT), and urged people in the area to stay indoors. Police urged all mosques across New Zealand to stay closed over the weekend for security reasons. Rural America needs a new deal, or at least a better deal, and if its green all the better. Farm loan delinquencies are rising to levels not seen since the Farm Debt Crisis of the 1980s, from which the rural midwest never really recovered. Nearly a third of Iowa farmers growing corn and soybeans caught up in a trade war with China are said to be under extreme stress, according to Iowa State University. Theyre the younger ones. Rural communities are draining young people. Two-thirds of Iowas 99 counties are losing population and prospects as manufacturing jobs leach out of the midwest. The Information Age jobs are not in those county seat towns of 5,000 people theyre in Minneapolis or Des Moines. Sign up to receive the latest US opinion pieces every weekday Meanwhile, were losing our precious topsoil and polluting our rivers killing the Gulf of Mexico in the process as we chase ever-higher corn yields in a vain bid to cut a profit on thin commodity markets. Iowa is losing soil four to five times faster than it can be regrown already yields and crop quality are declining because of it, which ultimately leads to higher food prices with less nutrition. The midwest would welcome a new deal, and this is where it must start. The Great Plains from Iowa down through Kansas and Texas lead the world in wind energy production. Yet the wind energy production tax credit is set to wane and expire over the next five years. Those wind turbine royalties are increasingly important in western Kansas where you can barely raise a corn crop even with irrigation because of soil degradation and warmer nights wrought by climate change. Wind energy technicians who keep the blades whirring are paid good union wages and are welcome residents in tiny Iowa villages. They could ply their trade in West Virginia as well. Yet they are fought at every turn. Astroturf groups spring up to clamor against new wind farm developments, citing phony science of human and fowl health threats, and funded by unknown interests. They have been able to slow or block development of new production and transmission capacity while new oil pipelines are laid near sacred Native ground and under the Missouri river without a problem. Utility companies, while capitalizing on wind revenue, continue to try to squeeze out small farms and businesses from metering their production back into the energy grid. Theyve been fighting that battle since the late 1980s, when Iowa wrote the first state renewable energy portfolio. And our grid isnt getting that much smarter, so it can ship wind power when its needed where its needed, but remains vulnerable to natural and computer-assisted disaster. Story continues Related: Can candidates define the national conversation for 2020 amid the chaos? | Art Cullen Wind, solar and renewable fuels such as ethanol and biodiesel have strong appeal in rural areas. While corn-based ethanol presents environmental challenges from growing the feedstock, it presents a pathway to new sustainable fuels production using everything from algae to switchgrass. A fair deal doesnt cut out corn growers, but helps them find a new way to live amid a landscape transformed by torrential rains in spring and fall. Farmers are looking at new revenue sources as they have lost money five straight years trying to make a living from eroding commodity markets. New, regional food economies that keep local profits local are just starting to take shape if only they could find seed money to organize them to survive. The concentration of food resources into the hands of a few four firms produce most of the nations meat, and two are foreign-owned can be regulated or even dispersed by finally enforcing the Packers and Stockyards Act, written just before FDRs New Deal. But no attorney general or agriculture secretary has had the political muscle to actually enforce the act that demands open and transparent markets and guards against exploitation of farmers through contracted production. And, the Trump administration disbanded the Packers and Stockyards Administration enabled by that historic law. Enforcement could lead to a more diverse food supply network that rewards resiliency in agriculture. And it would be welcomed. But the reverse is happening on all fronts. The Conservation Stewardship Program is designed to bring cattle out of unsustainable feedlots and back on to lush grass. It rewards farmers who implement conservation plans and adopt rotational grazing practices that reduce chemical use, capture carbon from the atmosphere and into the soil, and restore soil health through microbial renewal. Yet Congress cut that programs funding in half in the latest five-year farm bill. The Conservation Reserve Programs acreage has been cut by a quarter in the last decade for lack of funds. Meanwhile, crop insurance is expanded to cover adventurism as those stressed younger farmers are forced to plant up to the riverbank to make their rent. The Great Plains offer the greatest opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by replacing smokestacks with solar arrays and wind turbines A Green New Deal could have cachet in the electorally vital midwest, which flipped from Obama to Trump, if rural communities knew it was actually for them and not for the utility company or the ethanol traders. The Great Plains offer the greatest opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by replacing smokestacks with solar arrays and wind turbines. Its happening already nearly half of Iowas electricity is generated by wind. And, the region offers the capacity to capture and store deadly carbon if there were an incentive to do so. Taking corn out of ethanol and converting those acres to grass for cattle can eliminate nitrate and phosphorous pollution of the Gulf of Mexico which is destroying the fishing industry from oxygen deprivation in our quest for 200 bushels of corn per acre that the world obviously does not want. We are growing about 30% too much corn and soybeans, the markets say. We can replace lost coal jobs with solar jobs if markets are induced in a carbon trading regime. We can restore rural food processing innovation and good jobs for educated workers if small producers can get a toehold in the market through anti-trust enforcement. All the mechanisms are in place already if we choose to use them, but we dont. The wind tax credit has to fight for its life every three to five years. The farm bill props up corn production planted in a chemical base controlled by a seed oligopoly, which generates nitrogen gas as harmful to the climate as carbon dioxide. But there is a new conversation taking place among old farmers and declining rural communities, that a new deal is better than a raw deal or no deal at all for Rural America. Most of us out here where the tall corn rustles know that change is in the wind. Were getting ready for it because Nature ultimately will leave us little alternative. The question is whether our politics is ready to use tools already at our disposal to save these rural byways, and our planet. We dont have to reinvent the wheel, or even the old New Deal. By Tom Westbrook and Alex Fraser SYDNEY/LONDON (Reuters) - Tens of thousands of school students around the world walked out of classes on Friday in a global strike to protest against government inaction on climate change. "Climate change is worse than Voldemort," read a handmade sign carried by one student in Wellington, referring to the evil wizard in the hugely popular Harry Potter books and films. "The oceans are rising, so are we," read another in Sydney. In Europe, students packed streets and squares in Paris, Madrid, Rome, Brussels and other cities for "Fridays for Future" protests. Demonstrations also took place across the United States. In Washington, some 1,500 students rallied in front of the Capitol chanting "climate action now!" and waving homemade placards with slogans such as "Our planet, our future." The worldwide student strike movement started in August 2018, when 16-year-old Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg began protesting outside her parliament on school days. She has since been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. On Friday, she spoke at a Stockholm demonstration. Other rallies were held in 100 towns around Sweden. "We have only been born into this world, we are going to have to live with this crisis our whole lives. So will our children and grandchildren and coming generations," Thunberg said. "We are not going to accept this. We are striking because we want a future and we are going to carry on." Thousands marched through central London with banners reading "The future is in our hands" and "We're missing lessons to teach you one". "Education is important but climate change is more important," 14-year-old Molly Powell said. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres tweeted his support on Friday evening. "Young people can, and do, change the world," he said. "You understand we are in a race for your lives; your commitment & activism makes me confident we will win it." Story continues "CLIMATE CATASTROPHE" Scientists say fossil fuel use releases greenhouse gases that trap heat and lift global temperatures, bringing more floods, droughts, heatwaves and rising sea levels. The 2015 Paris climate conference pledge to keep the increase in global average temperatures to below 2 degrees Celsius (35 F) above pre-industrial levels requires a radical cutback in use of coal and fossil fuels. In Dusseldorf, Germany, some 2,000 schoolchildren paraded with a carnival float depicting a giant effigy of Thunberg with "Do something about the climate catastrophe at last" written on her raised arms. They stopped around the city, home to the headquarters of many of Germany's largest manufacturers, reading out calls for change. "The clock is ticking and time is against us!" they shouted. "We are the last generation that can fix this." About 60 students protested at government house in Bangkok, holding cardboard signs to campaign against plastic. Thailand is one of the world's worst marine plastic polluters. "As youths who will inherit the land, we gather here to demand that the government work with us to solve these problems," said 17-year-old Thiti Usanakul, of student-led group Grin Green International. The group was later invited to meet officials at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment in two weeks. There were also demonstrations in South Korea, India and South Africa. In Singapore, where strict laws regulate public assembly, young people planned a virtual campaign on social media. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern supported the strikes, saying teenagers should not wait for voting age to use their voices. That contrasted with politicians in Australia and Britain, who rebuked them for missing lessons. "For action on issues that they think is important, they should do that after school or on weekends," said Dan Tehan, Australia's education minister. Wellington parent Alex, who marched beside his 11-year-old son, disagreed: "It's a much better day of education. This is the greatest issue of our time." (Reporting by Charlotte Greenfield in Wellington, Tom Westbrook in Sydney, Sonali Paul in Melbourne and Alex Fraser in London; Additional reporting by Jane Chung and Yijin Kim in SEOUL, Aradhana Aravindan in SINGAPORE, Patpicha Tanakasempipat in BANGKOK, Thomas Escritt in BERLIN, Simon Johnson and Phil O'Connor in STOCKHOLM, Bart Biesemans in BRUSSELS, Caterina Demony in Lisbon, Marie-Louise Gumuchian in LONDON, Roberto Mignucci in ROME, and Lee Van Der Voo in WASHINGTON; Editing by Mark Heinrich, Gareth; Jones, Rosalba O'Brien and James Dalgleish) By Trend: The delegation led by Chairman of the Investigative Committee of Belarus Ivan Noskevich, which is on a visit to Azerbaijan, visited the Heydar Aliyev Center on March 15, Trend reports referring to the press service of the Prosecutor Generals Office. The Belarusian delegation was informed about the Center. Acquaintance with the Center made a great impression on the delegation members. Then the delegation got acquainted with the work of the fifth Baku-based ASAN Service Center. The delegation headed by Chairman Ivan Noskevich, with the aim of further strengthening the working relations with the General Prosecutors Office of Azerbaijan, is on a visit to Azerbaijan. The delegation of the Investigative Committee of Belarus visited the Alley of Honor, where they honored the memory of Heydar Aliyev, the founder of the modern Azerbaijani state, laying a wreath at his grave. The delegation members also laid flowers at the grave of the outstanding ophthalmologist, academician Zarifa Aliyeva. Having visited the Alley of Martyrs, the members of the delegation laid flowers at the graves of Azerbaijanis who fell in the struggle for the independence and territorial integrity of their fatherland, and laid a wreath at the Eternal Flame memorial. Then a meeting was held at the Prosecutor Generals Office of Azerbaijan. The Belarusian delegation also visited the Anti-Corruption General Directorate at the Prosecutor General's Office and the Department for Investigation of Grave Crimes of the Prosecutor General's Office. The delegation also got acquainted with the cultural and historical monuments of Baku. [March 15, 2019] Vonage Appoints New Independent Director To Its Board HOLMDEL, N.J., March 15, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Vonage Holdings Corp. (NYSE: VG), a business cloud communications leader, today announced that it appointed Michael J. McConnell as an independent director to the Company's Board of Directors, effective today. Vonage's board will now be comprised of nine directors, eight of whom are independent. "We welcome Mike McConnell to our Board as we continue to execute on our strategic priorities," said Gary Steele, Chair of the Nomination and Governance Committee. "The addition of Mike McConnell as an independent director will add extensive operating and leadership experience, as well as keen investor perspectives from Mr. McConnell's multi-decade investment career focused on increasing shareholder value," said Chris Kiper, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Legion Partners Asset Management, LLC ("Legion Partners"). "We appreciate the very constructive relationship we have had with Vonage and the Board, and management's continued efforts to deliver shareholder value." In connection with today's announcement, Legion Partners has agreed to abide by certain customary standstill provisions and to support Vonage's slate of nominees at the 2019 Annual Meeting. The complete agreement will be included as an exhibit to a Current Report on Form 8-K, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. About Michael McConnell Mr. McConnell, age 53, is a private investor. He has served as a director of SPS Commerce, Inc., a provider of cloud-based supply chain management software, since March 018, and as a director of Adacel Technologies, a developer of operational air traffic management systems and advanced air traffic control simulation and training solutions, since May 2017. From April 2016 until the company was sold in September 2017, Mr. McConnell served as a director of Guidance Software Inc., a provider of forensic security and risk management applications. Previously he served as a director of Spark Networks, Inc., a global, online dating company, from July 2014 until the company was sold in November 2017, and as a director from 2007 to 2013 of Collectors Universe, Inc., a provider of third-party authentication and grading of high value collectibles, as well as its the Chief Executive Officer from 2009 to 2012. From 1994 to 2007, Mr. McConnell served as a Managing Director of Shamrock Capital Advisors. Over the course of his career, Mr. McConnell has served on numerous other public and private company boards in the United States, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland. During the past five years, Mr. McConnell served on the following boards in addition to those listed above: Redflex Holdings Limited, Vitacost.com and Best International Limited. About Vonage Vonage is redefining business communications, helping enterprises use fully-integrated unified communications, contact center, and programmable communications solutions via Nexmo, the Vonage API Platform, to improve how business gets done. True to our roots as a technology disruptor, we've embraced technology to transform how companies connect, collaborate and communicate to create better business outcomes. Vonage's fully-integrated cloud communications platform built on a microservices-based architecture enables businesses to collaborate more productively and engage their customers more effectively across all channels, including messaging, chat, social media, video and voice. Vonage Holdings Corp. is headquartered in Holmdel, New Jersey, with offices throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and Israel. Vonage is a registered trademark of Vonage Marketing LLC, owned by Vonage America Inc. For more information, visit www.vonage.com . (vg-a) View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vonage-appoints-new-independent-director-to-its-board-300813407.html SOURCE Vonage Holdings Corp. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Uprooted Palestinians are at the heart of the conflict in the M.E Palestinians uprooted by force of arms. 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05 (4) Oct 29 (1) Oct 01 (1) Jul 29 (1) May 11 (1) Jul 11 (1) Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, president of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, has been declared the winner of the Arab Heritage Personality 2019, said a report. The honour is the most prestigious award granted by the Arab Centre for Tourism Media (ACTM) to personalities who contributed substantially to preserving the cultural components in their countries and the Arab world, BNA reported. ACTM president Dr Sultan Al Yahyai conferred the title on Shaikha Mai in the presence of renowned international personalities in the media field and Ministers of Tourism participating in the exhibition. The choice was hailed by all given the outstanding role played by Shaikha Mai in achieving the sustainable development goals and the great respect she enjoys at the international level, it said. Sarah Baxter in Literary Hub: The pub is warm and beery. Grog glassesdrained, foam stainedscatter sticky veneer. Red-wine lips, hoppy breath, a slurry of slurring; laughter like gunfire, craic-ing off the wood panels, mirror walls and ranks of whiskey bottles. Bar talk is of theology and adultery, literature and death, soap and sausages. Everything and nothing, discussed or daydreamed over a quick cheese sandwich. A nothing old day. But the stuff of lifeinfinitesimal yet essentialall the same . . . James Joyces Ulyssesvariously considered the most momentous, accomplished, infuriating and unreadable book in the English languageis the ordinary made extraordinary. Its a modernist reworking of Homers Odyssey, but while the Ancient Greek poem tells of Odysseus incident-packed return from the Trojan War, Joyce makes an epic out of a single, unremarkable day. Ulysses follows Leopold Bloom, a Jewish ad canvasser for The Freemans Journal, as he wanders around Dublin on June 16, 1904. He attends a funeral, goes to the pub, ducks into a museum (to avoid the man sleeping with his wife), pleasures himself by Sandymount Strand, enters the red-light district. The novel is a chaotic stream of consciousness, performing stylistic acrobatics to try to render the human experience. But it is grounded in the streets of Dublin. Joyce, writing from self-exile in Paris, slavishly researched the physicality of the city. Though he seldom returned, he remained tethered: When I die, he once said, Dublin will be written in my heart. More here. Natalia Holtzman at The Quarterly Conversation: Andric is particularly remarkable for his psychological acuity. Consider the knot of complexity that is Omer Pasha: born Mico Latas, hed been a brilliant boy in a village too small to contain his ambitions. He was bored by his parents and the provincial people around him. He managed to acquire a scholarship to military schoolAustrian, not Turkishbut, just as he is ready to graduate, he receives word that his father, a minor officer, a weak mana small, overlooked man, has been indicted for misuse of state funds. The stigma will prevent Mico from achieving any career at all. This is when he takes off for Istanbul to scrape together an entirely new life. When he returns, he has a new name, a new religion, and an army trailing in his wake. But there isnt a soul in Sarajevo who doesnt know of the pashas conversion. more here. Saudi Arabian airline flyadeal will wait until investigations into two Boeing 737 MAX crashes are completed before deciding whether to proceed with a signed order for 30 of the jets, reported Reuters, citing its chief executive. The 737 MAX has been banned from flying in most countries after an Ethiopian Airlines crash on Sunday that killed all 157 people on board. This was a second deadly incident involving the relatively new Boeing model in five months. In October, a Lion Air jet crashed in Indonesia killing all 189 people on board. "Were in a hold for the moment. We are monitoring and in constant contact with Boeing and will wait for the outcomes to be known before moving forward," stated CEO Con Korfiatis. Boeing Companys $600 billion-plus order book for its 737 Max began shaking after several big customers threatened to reconsider their purchases in the wake of the Ethiopian Airlines crash, the second deadly accident involving the plane since October, reported Bloomberg. Flyadeal ordered 30 Boeing 737 MAX 8s last December with purchasing options for 20 more in a deal Boeing said was worth $5.9 billion at list prices. Flyadeal, a unit of Saudi Arabian Airlines, said in December it would switch from Airbus and purchase up to 50 737 Max jets, subject to final terms being reached. The company says its waiting on the results of the investigation. Were closely monitoring the situation and are in constant contact with Boeing, the company said in an email. There are no conclusions to be drawn at this time. VietJet Aviation JSC, which doubled its order to about $25 billion only last month, said it will decide on its future plans once the cause of the tragedy has been found. Kenya Airways too is reviewing proposals to buy the Max and could switch to Airbus SEs rival A320. Russias Utair Aviation PJSC is seeking guarantees before taking delivery of the first of 30 planes. Thats as Indonesias Lion Air firms up moves to drop a $22 billion order for the 737 in favour of the Airbus jet, according to a person with knowledge of the plan. Separately, Garuda Indonesia plans to cut orders of the Boeing plane and a $5.9 billion order from a unit of Saudi Arabian Airlines hangs in the balance. The 737, which first entered service in the late 1960s, is the aviation industrys best-selling model and Boeings top earner. The re-engineered Max version has racked up more than 5,000 orders worth in excess of $600 billion, including planes that have already been delivered, said the Bloomberg report. Boeing, whose shares have lost 11 per cent of their value this week, faces escalating financial risk after two disasters involving its newest narrow-body jet in the past five months. The stock inched up 0.5 percent on Wednesday in New York after seeing its biggest two-day drop in almost a decade. The deadly crash in Ethiopia comes just about five months after the Oct. 29 crash of another Boeing 737 Max plane, operated by Indonesias Lion Air. The relationship between the carrier and Boeing soured after the manufacturer pointed to maintenance issues and human error at Lion as the underlying cause, even though the planes pilots had been battling a computerized system that took control following a sensor malfunction. Sundays loss of an Ethiopian Airlines 737, in which 157 people died, bore similarities to the Asian tragedy, stoking concern that a feature meant to make the upgraded Max safer than earlier planes has actually made it harder to fly. Boeing is in crisis as most of the world grounded the plane. On Wednesday, US regulators joined the global chorus by grounding the plane, citing evidence showing the Ethiopian Airlines flight may have experienced the same problem as the plane that went down five months ago off Indonesia. With extensive grounding of the 737 Max, near term news could get worse for Boeing before it improves, Cai von Rumohr, an analyst with Cowen & Co., said in a note. However, he added, because the company is readying an update to its flight-control software, we dont see meaningful long term risk. Noem budget proposal includes $6.5M for Richmond Lake spillway Gov. Krsti Noem outlined a host of plans and projects in her 2022-23 budget including funding for the replacement of the Richmond Lake spillway. By Saleha Ahmad for TwoCircles.net Born to an IPS father and a teacher mother, writer Rana Safvi has a great affinity for books from childhood. A mother of two grown-up kids, a food connoisseur, a blogger and a prolific writer of books like Where Stones Speak, The Forgotten cities of Delhi and Tales from Quran and Hadith, she might have started a little late, but her journey has been spectacular. During her visit to the United States, she presented a glimpse of her book Where Stones Speak: Historical Trails in Mehrauli, the First City of Delhi at an event hosted by TwoCircles.net. Support TwoCircles Later, TwoCircles.net caught up with her to discuss her writing experiences and her views on the recent incidents. Here are the excerpts of the conversation Saleha had with the author: Saleha: Tell us about your childhood? And your aspirations as a child? Rana Safvi: As a child, I do not think I aspired to become anything. Those days were gentle. When we were growing up, we just played, had fun, went to school and did the usual things. I did not have much ambition at that time. Later on, I wanted to join the Civil Services and cleared the preliminary exams. At that time I got married and was happy taking care of the house and the children, and did not pursue it further. After sometime I did start my career as a teacher. Saleha: Do you believe writing is an innate art or it can be learned in due course of time? When precisely did you explore the writer in you? Rana Safvi: I am sure writing can be an innate art because I did not learn it. I have been good at writing since my childhood days. I was fond of both reading and writing. My journey as a writer started organically. When I started writing on my blog, people liked it and insisted that I write more often for different magazines. It was later in 2011 that I began writing for magazines and books. Saleha: What intrigued you about the monuments? As your books title reads Where Stones Speak: Historical Trails in Mehrauli, the First City of Delhi; how did you listen to the voices of the stones? Rana Safvi: I have always been fascinated by the rubbles and monuments. History was my subject in college, and I used to visit monuments as a child as well. But when I came to Delhi and visited the monuments, I realized that their story had not been told correctly. It grabbed my attention, and I started writing about it. Saleha: Not only that it has not been told properly, but also we have witnessed incidents where an attempt to distort the history has been made. How do you feel about it? Rana Safvi: That is happening now; it did not happen earlier. It is crucial that we take out the fact-based research and put it in straightforward stories so that everyone can read it. Saleha: Do you also believe that the existing and upcoming generations will draw inspirations from their past, and therefore it is imperative for them to be aware of their history? Rana Safvi: Of course, we learn from history. If we know our mistakes from the pasts, we can avoid it in the future. Saleha: We know that you are quite a Twitterati, you have created #Shair which has caught a lot of attention. How did this idea strike you and what is it all about? Rana Safvi: I just thought that so many people are tweeting on Urdu verses so why not do it systematically and form a community. So we created the Shair community, and we call it Shair Parivar. We have a schedule every day when everyone tweets. Like today is the birthday of Noshi Gilani, someday it is some topics like Ishq and we all tweet about it. Now it has at least 2500 people, we meet once in a while, and there are around a hundred tweets every day. We have come closer to each other and a lot of friendships has blossomed. Saleha: Since you express your ideas frequently on these social platforms, have you ever faced trolling? Rana Safvi: Oh yes, lots and lots of it. I used to get upset initially, but now I have realized that it is their job, they are paid for it. So, I ignore and block them. Saleha: Through your work, we have found that you firmly believe in Ganga Jamuni Tahzeeb. Has Aligarh Muslim University played a vital role in this faith of yours? Rana Safvi: Undoubtedly, the first chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University, Sultan Jahan Begum was a woman, the first student who graduated was Mr. Ishwari Prasad, the first principal was a British. The university has broken stereotypes. Though the name has the word Muslim in it, it has always had students from every region and every religion. Saleha: Tell us something about your visit to the United States. How has been your journey been so far? What events are still to be unfolded? Rana Safvi: So far I have only been in California, and it has been fantastic. I was invited by TwoCircles.net to come and deliver a series lecture in the US at community events and Universities. The first one has gone very well in San Francisco. Now I am ready to go to San Diego, then from there to Boston, New York, and Washington. I am sure all of them are going to be phenomenal, and I am very honoured to be able to speak in so many prestigious universities to talented groups of people. Saleha: What are you planning to write next? Rana Safvi: I am already working on the third part of the book Where Stones Speak. Saleha: I am sure you are truly inspirational to many women who read your work and listen to you. What is your message to them? Rana Safvi: My message to women is to live their life the way they want. It is never too late. Many women feel that now that they have given up their dream for their children and once they grow up, they will have nothing to do. That is not true. I started at the age of 55; they can start whenever they want, whenever they are comfortable. Age is not the barrier, you can always start afresh. Copyright 2018 Albuquerque Journal In December 2018, after waiting more than a decade, Nallely Hernandez finally got to see her fourth-grade teacher convicted for sexual crimes against her and a classmate. A jury found former teacher Gary Gregor guilty of three counts of criminal sexual penetration of a minor, four counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor and five counts of kidnapping. The crimes took place during the 2007-2008 school year at Espanolas Fairview Elementary School. Since Gregors conviction, the Journal North staff has undertaken an investigative project that has produced a series of stories about how Gregor avoided criminal charges or other serious consequences for years, despite repeated allegations of that he had engaged inappropriate behavior with elementary school students in Utah and then in Santa Fe before he began teaching in Espanola. Collected here are the story about his December conviction, the Journal North teams investigative pieces and editorial comment on the Gregor case. The Gary Gregor case: Copyright 2019 Albuquerque Journal After years of lawsuits, controversies, court decisions and a new mayoral administration, Albuquerques controversial vehicle seizure program has officially come to an end. And now city attorneys say they are in the process of trying to return hundreds of cars seized from suspected drunken drivers over the years. They say the vehicles will be returned free of charge, and owners will not have to pay fines or fees. As of Thursday, 354 vehicles remained on the lot on Edith near Montano NE the oldest a 92 Ford that was seized almost nine years ago in April 2010. Of those vehicles, the city says 232 need to be returned to their owners. The remaining 122 have been disclaimed by their owner or the city has already acquired ownership of them. We are essentially trying to be as exhaustive as possible trying to get these vehicles back, said Andrew Coon, an assistant city attorney. At the end of the day, if the vehicle is never picked up by someone, there is the possibility that it will be auctioned off. The last thing we want is for that to happen to a vehicle if it turns out somebody might actually want it back. Coon said the city has been making phone calls and sending letters to try to reach the owners. So far 186 vehicles have been returned. The city still has a lease on the lot, and Albuquerque Police Departments Seizure Unit has been spending its days releasing the vehicles. The unit has also begun handling paperwork for license revocation for DWI suspects and storing bait cars for the police department, Coon said. The lease for the seizure lot is up at the end of March, and its owner has asked the city to either leave the property entirely or to sign a two-year lease. In late January, the mayor sent the City Council president a letter recommending extending the lease due to the unique need for this property. The letter states that the two-year extension is necessary for APD to properly coordinate the disbursement of vehicles and plan for relocation of remaining vehicles and units necessary, and/or review its options to purchase the property. The rent would be $18,658 a month for the first year and $19,404 a month for the second year. That comes out to $223,896 and $232,848 a year respectively. The City Council will vote on it at an upcoming meeting. Court rulings The citys vehicle seizure program began in 1992 and allowed police to confiscate a vehicle from people arrested on suspicion of a second or subsequent drunken driving offense or by anyone caught driving with a suspended or revoked license. However, vehicles were also being seized from owners whose relatives, partners or acquaintances were arrested while driving their vehicle, sometimes without the owners permission. Some owners ended up losing their vehicles or paying hundreds of dollars to get them back. Last July, a federal judge found parts of the Albuquerque program to be problematic and unconstitutional including that the city made vehicle owners prove their innocence if someone else had been driving when it was seized and that the money from the program was paying the salaries of its employees. And the New Mexico Court of Appeals ruled in another case in December that the program completely contradicts the intent of the New Mexico Forfeiture Act. Esteban Aguilar, the city attorney, said the administration had begun looking at ways to change the vehicle seizure program last spring, by not seizing cars from innocent owners and mainly focusing on repeat offenders. He said once the Court of Appeals decision came out, the city began dismantling the program completely. The forfeiture act was clear, Aguilar said. Its the guiding legislation that really ended for municipalities across the state their abilities to use seizure as a tool or the civil seizure program as a tool to fight DWIs. Were going to have to go back to the drawing board and look at exploring our other options for the way were handling DWI in this community. He said now if a drunken driver is arrested, the vehicle they were driving is towed to a private lot for public safety reasons. The owner can then go retrieve their vehicle there. Gilbert Gallegos, an APD spokesman, said the department has increased its DWI saturation patrols in recent months as a way to combat drunken driving. Law no longer enforced In 2010, nearly 2,000 vehicles were seized from suspected drunken drivers, netting $1.81 million. Those numbers dropped over the next several years, and by 2015 police seized a little over 1,000 vehicles, Gallegos said. In 2016 they seized 810 and in 2017 they seized 760. Through 2018, 762 vehicles were seized, according to Gallegos. Shortly after the Court of Appeals decision was handed down, Police Chief Michael Geier issued a special order stating: Therefore, all sworn officers will temporarily suspend seizing vehicles for driving while intoxicated (whether or not theres a prior conviction), driving on a revoked license, vice related seizures, firearm enhancement clause and drag racing. Gallegos said one vehicle had been seized on the day the order was issued and another had been seized in early January due to an oversight by the officer. The vehicle was returned to its owner when the mistake was realized. Gallegos said although the order does say to temporarily suspend vehicle seizures, the program has been suspended, and there is no intention to resume vehicle seizures. There is no need for another special order. The vehicle seizure ordinance is still on the citys books, but Aguilar said it will not be enforced. Whether the Council wants to repeal it or not is up to them, he said. In practice its unconstitutional were not going to enforce it. Pat Davis, a city councilor, said he doesnt expect the ordinance will be appealed since it cannot be enforced anyway. But, he added, he also doesnt expect the council will amend it to comply with the courts decision in order to revive the program which he said has been seen as policing for profit. The court made it clear, the legislature made it clear, Davis said Theres some bipartisan agreement across the country and across the board that this pre-conviction seizure just is not the right way to use our criminal justice system. More info: Vehicle owners can reach the DWI seizure units legal team at (505) 768-4544. About 300 students mostly from the Santa Fe area joined hundreds of thousands from around the world in a demonstration against climate change with a rally on the citys historic Plaza and march to the state capitol, where they hoped to catch the ear of lawmakers on the second-to-last day of this years legislative session. The student-led event was hailed as the Youth Climate Strike in most places in America, but demonstrations were held under other names in different places around the globe. All of them were inspired by Fridays for Future climate movement, which in turn was galvanized behind Greta Thunberg, a 16-year-old Swedish girl who last year started skipping schools on Fridays to protest outside Swedish parliament building, demanding her countrys government abide by the Paris Agreement and reduce carbon emissions. Hannah Laga Abram organized the event in Santa Fe on Friday. She helped form a group called Student Advocacy Union, which advocates for causes important to youth, like raising awareness for climate change and what can be done about it. She and others decided to organize after being inspired by the large number of young people who attended a March for Our Lives event a year ago, a protest and rally that was part of a nationwide movement calling for stronger school safety measures and gun violence prevention laws. Students just came together serendipitously and said, Look what we can do? And there are so many state issues that need attention, Laga Abram said. She said students from Mandela International Magnet School, the New Mexico School for the Arts, Desert Academy and other Santa Fe schools, as well as students from Albuquerque, Los Alamos and Las Vegas were also among those attending the event. Santa Fe Public Schools students were scarce, having been notified that not showing up for school to attend the event would result in an unexcused absence. Fridays demonstration started on Santa Fes Plaza where several students spoke about protecting the environment and Mayor Alan Webber and City Councilor Renee Villarreal talked about the promise of a local Green New Deal that would both stimulate the economy and fight climate change. Earlier this year, Democrats Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and Sen. Ed Markey of Massachusetts presented a pair of New Green Deal resolutions in Congress. Some students chanted Hey, hey, ho, ho, the Green New Deal is the way to go, en route to the Roundhouse and the Green New Deal was mentioned by speakers during a noon event inside the capitol rotunda. Among the speakers were Kimberly Smith of New Energy Economy and a member of the Dine, or Navajo, Nation, who spoke of the effects mining and gas and oil production in New Mexico has had on her people and the Native perspective of people being one with nature. Marian Naranjo, of Santa Clara Pueblo and founder of Honor Our Pueblo Existence, began and ended the capital rally with prayers to protect Mother Earth spoken in her Tewa language. Several fourth and fifth graders from Acequia Madre who are a part of the Global Warming Express also spoke at the rally inside the capital. One, who introduced herself as Lori, said humans are ruining the environment. This is not OK, she said. Its not like we can trash this planet and move to Mars. Emily Christopher, a 10-year-old home-schooled student from Albuquerque who is also a member of the Global Warming Express, penned a letter that the Express then delivered to the offices of all 112 state legislators. It explained why we came and what we want them to do keep from destroying the planet, she said. While young people made up the majority of the crowd, adults came out to support the kids, as well. Its important to support the young people, its their world, said John Thayer, of Mora, who carried a sign made to look like the USS Constitution sailing ship, replete with sails made from copies of the U.S. Constitution, miniature American flags flown upside down as a sign of distress, and a flag flown from the central mast that read, Dont Give Up the Ship. Us older people in the sunset movement have to support the sunrise movement. Copyright 2019 Albuquerque Journal Darci Pierce in 1987 kidnapped a woman who was 8 months pregnant. She drove her to a remote area in the East Mountains where she strangled her, cut out her baby with a key, then tried to pass the baby off as her own. Frank Martinez and two other men in 1993 raped a 12-year-old girl, stabbed her, and choked her with a belt as he drowned her in a puddle of muddy water, then set the body on fire on Mount Taylor. And in 2003, Gabriel Avila raped and murdered a 22-year-old woman who was walking home from a party in Las Cruces. He then tried to burn her body. The attorney general and district attorneys statewide say a bill passed by the Legislature could potentially make it easier to put these three and the other 421 people serving a life sentence back on the street by making dramatic changes to the rules of probation and parole. And they are urging Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham to veto the legislation, House Bill 564. The bill passed the House 51-16 and the Senate 26-6 and now awaits Lujan Grishams signature. Plainly stated, this bill poses a significant public safety risk if signed into law, 12th Judicial District Attorney John Sugg wrote in a letter to the governor that was also signed by Attorney General Hector Balderas and DAs from every district in the state. We gave our word to New Mexicos families that we would keep the most violent offenders and murderers behind bars when we abolished the death penalty, Balderas said in a statement. We must keep our word. Rep. Antonio Moe Maestas, the bills sponsor, in an email to the Journal, contested the DAs contentions and said the only difference is that the parole board would be required to make written findings in its decision. HB 564 does not change the law in any way regarding the power and authority of the parole board, he said. Maestas said he was disappointed the DAs Association chose to resort to fear mongering after the fact instead of participating in the legislative process during the session. The DAs and AG also contend that the bill attacks both the judicial and executive branches ability to work to rehabilitate criminal offenders, provide restitution to victims, and protect the public. They criticize the bills handling of probation which they say includes a policy dictating mandatory reduction to supervised probation, limiting a judges discretion on violations and ambiguous language referring to punishment for violation. However, Maestas says the bill comes down to stemming recidivism. Our recidivism rate in New Mexico is horrible and makes us less safe, he said. We must take bold steps to reduce recidivism and keep communities safer. Maestas said 22 states have enacted similar strategies around revocations from supervision that have resulted in less crime and lower costs. Public safety One of the prosecutors biggest issues with the bill is how it would change the parole process. As it stands, a parole board is now required to look at specific factors when deciding to release anyone who has served 30 years of their sentence. These include the severity of the crime, whether a deadly weapon was used and if the inmate is a habitual offender. But those mitigating factors are stricken from the language of the bill, which would instead ask the board to consider all pertinent information. The board would decide what information is pertinent. All of those things, obviously, are things that would be relevant from a victim or victims family perspective, president of the DAs Association Dianna Luce said, referring to the mitigating factors currently spelled out in the law. It gives the statute a completely different meaning when they purposely strike something that was already there. Luce, who oversees the Fifth Judicial District, said the idea of the bill being open to interpretation is concerning. She said the board may now focus more on the inmate being paroled rather than looking at the whole picture. The big picture is public safety, she said. In the letter, Sugg said one of the greatest misconceptions floating around the Roundhouse was that hundreds, if not thousands were serving life sentences for nonviolent offenses. According to the New Mexico Sentencing Commission, there are around 7,500 prisoners in the state in 2018. Sugg said 424 of them are lifers and the names read like a Whos Who List of the states most dangerous offenders. Sugg said nobody is serving a life sentence in the states three strikes law and the overwhelming majority are behind bars for first-degree murder. If the Legislature wants to amend the penalty for murder, from life to 30 years, then they should be transparent about that, Sugg said. Show the public what youre actually doing and lets see what the public wants. Last chance The DAs also took issue with language regarding probation. For instance, according to the bill, after one year of supervised probation a person would have a month of unsupervised probation credited to their sentence for every month served without a violation. That means someone sentenced to three years of supervised probation could actually only serve two years if they dont violate. Sugg said this would undercut a judges authority in probation sentencing as well as the probation officers discretion in how that probation should be carried out as time progresses. But Maestas, in his email said, This modern language gives more discretion to probation officers and Judges to enforce restitution, hold offenders accountable and proportionately deal with those we are tasked with rehabilitating. Maestas could not be reached for further comment. Meanwhile, Luce said she doesnt agree with Maestas contention that the group has waited until after the fact to voice opposition. We participated, she said. We were there expressing our concerns and standing in opposition of the bill. Luce and Sugg said they had been tracking the bill all along. Now it comes down to the governor. This is kind of our last chance, Sugg said. CORRECTION: In the original version of this column, the figure $144 million should have been an estimated $1.44 billion that the Bureau of Prisons could have saved in just one fiscal year. It has been corrected below. So, what is the reality about immigration into the United States? Is it the humanitarian crisis at the border some speak about or is it, as others maintain, nothing much to worry about since apprehensions along the Southwestern border are now at an all-time low? Both statements are correct to a point. Border apprehensions are down. But it used to be the majority of immigrants were solo males looking for work to send money home. Today, it is mostly families with children attempting to enter the U.S. and we are simply not equipped to handle them all. Americans hardly know what to believe anymore. We live in a facts-be-damned era where assertions are made and then reported by the news media, often with no perspective or assurance that the comments are true. Take the august New York Times, for example. As late as Februarys State of the Union speech, the Times declared the presidents description of the current immigration situation as an urgent national crisis was false. The Washington Post warned readers not to be fooled by the make believe crisis. CNN said flatly, There is no national emergency. Less than a month later, the New York Times ran front page articles on the explosion of sex crimes against female migrants and a piece with the breathless headline: Border at Breaking Point as More Than 76,000 Migrants Cross in a Month. No explanation for their flip-flopped attitude. No retraction for reporting there was no crisis. The reality is that clear thinkers cannot just look at what the immigration system is right now. We must look at the issue with a wider lens and realize that it is the cumulative effect of our lackadaisical immigration policies over the past few decades that have brought us to this reckoning point. The snowballing economic strain that immigration both legal and illegal has put on our welfare system, public schools, health care programs and hospitals has drained away multiple billions of dollars that could have been spent on needy U.S. citizens. There are those who argue that the economics will all level out over time because the children of immigrants will mature to become contributing tax-paying members of society. Maybe. But there is no guarantee that their collective contributions will ever amount to what U.S. taxpayers have already shelled out. Lets just take a look at one fascinating slice of the federal budget that of the federal prison system to gauge the impact of immigration. David Olen Cross is a crime researcher who writes on immigration and crimes committed by foreign nationals for Oregon State Sen. Kim Thatcher. Cross regularly compiles both state and national figures that should make every rational policy-maker grow pale. Using the U.S. Bureau of Prisons February 2019 citizenship statistics, Cross discovered that 19.3 percent of the current federal prison population holds a foreign passport. The highest percentage of foreign-born prisoners are from Mexico (12.1 percent), Columbia (0.9 percent), Dominican Republic (0.8 percent), Cuba (0.7 percent) and 4.9 percent are from other/unknown countries. So, what crimes did these 179,917 convicts commit? A full 77,200 of them are serving time on drug offenses. Convictions for weapons, explosives and/or arson account for more than 30,500 prisoners. Almost 16,500 were found guilty of sex crimes, and 5,455 committed a homicide, aggravated assault or a kidnapping. Imagine if our federal prison system didnt have to care for those tens of thousands of convicts. Uncle Sams 2018 fiscal year prison budget of nearly $7.2 billion could be lowered by nearly 20 percent. Yep, the Bureau of Prisons could have saved an estimated $1.44 billion in just one fiscal year. If you dont think that sounds impressive, ask yourself how happy youd be if you suddenly had 20 percent more money in your savings account. Imagine what other sectors could save if illegal immigration was brought under control. Look, dont call it a crisis. Dont call it an emergency. But dont fail to call it a real problem for this country. Back in 2009, when President Obama was in office, Democratic Sen. Chuck Schumer told a group at Georgetown University it was a problem. Illegal immigration is wrong plain and simple, Schumer said, and he cautioned the group, When we use phrases like undocumented workers, we convey a message to the American people that their government is not serious about combating illegal immigration. So, where is leader Schumer today? Standing next to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, railing about this presidents plan for a wall, yet passing no legislation of their own that would begin to tackle the nations immigration problems. In what world is doing nothing OK? You would think congressional leaders would want to do everything possible to keep the population safe from outside criminals. That they cannot get it together to compromise on immigration is shameful. Not only are American taxpayers and crime victims hurt, but also those desperate migrant families who take the perilous trip north only to find themselves trapped at the border. Note to Washington: Do your job. Pass meaningful immigration reform. Now. www.DianeDimond.com; email to Diane@DianeDimond.com Copyright 2019 Albuquerque Journal The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has pulled two female Mexican gray wolves from the wild in the Gila National Forest following attacks on livestock. A removal order has been issued for a third wolf in which lethal force may be used. We will use that as a very last resort, said Brady McGee, who coordinates the Fish and Wildlife Services Mexican wolf recovery program. According to Fish and Wildlife spokesman Mark Davis, ranchers living near the Gila had reported 12 wolf depredations of livestock, plus one by a dog. Michael Robinson, a conservation advocate from the Center for Bio Diversity, said the attacks occurred in Catron County. During the recently concluded aerial survey, biologists tried to catch two suspected culprits, neither wearing collars, Davis said. It didnt work. Two additional depredations followed after the count concluded. The service then caught two young females in the national forest and placed them in a facility at the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge in New Mexico. There, biologists hope, they will determine if they have the right animals. The Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge in northern Socorro County has a captive wolf facility that has been instrumental in the wolf recovery program. Robinson was critical of removal of the two wolves he described as yearlings because Fish and Wildlife officials were not sure they were involved in the attacks. Removal of the wolves in the past has damaged the population and narrowed genetic diversity, Robinson said. He also said ranchers may be partially responsible for the livestock deaths. Robinson told the Journal the attacks were in an area where ranchers often fail to remove cattle carcasses in a timely manner that were not the result of a wolf attack. He said the wolves are attracted to the area because of the carcasses. Once the wolves have eaten the carcasses, Robinson said the wolves may attack other livestock in the area. The Mexican wolf population in the wild in the U.S. was at 114 at last count, at the end of 2017. The Fish and Wildlife Services Mexican wolf recovery plan stipulates that the U.S. population reaching an average of 320 individuals sustained over several years would constitute recovery. The wolves in the wild live in areas south of Interstate 40 in Arizona and New Mexico. Conservation advocates and ranchers have often been at odds with the Fish and Wildlife Service about the recovery plan. Robinson calls the effort a disaster, saying Fish and Wildlife officials have succumbed to political pressure. New Mexicos top water official said Wednesday he will team with the attorney general as a legal fight simmers with Texas and the U.S. government over management of the Rio Grande. State Engineer John DAntonio spoke during a confirmation hearing before a key legislative committee, saying he met this week with state Attorney General Hector Balderas as lawyers prepare to brief a special master appointed by the U.S. Supreme Court. DAntonio told lawmakers the fight over the river is complicated but New Mexico has strong technical arguments and needs to be aggressive in making its claims. I do hold some optimistic views on a settlement if we can get there, he said, cautioning lawmakers that the state is still preparing to line up technical experts and depositions that will help make its case. We need to protect our water, he said. Texas wants New Mexico to stop pumping groundwater along the border so that more of the Rio Grande could flow south to farmers and residents in El Paso. Critics contend the well-pumping depletes the aquifer that would otherwise drain back into the river and flow to Texas. New Mexico filed its own counterclaims last year. The state says Texas is violating the interstate compact governing the Rio Grande by allowing unrestricted pumping and other diversions on its side of the border and therefore aggravating demands on the river. The fight has been ongoing for years, but officials in both states are facing mounting pressures because of persistent drought and meager snowpack in the Colorado mountains where the river begins. Millions of people in New Mexico, Texas and Mexico depend on the river for drinking water and to irrigate pecan orchards, chile and onion fields and other crops. Flows were dismal last year, forcing federal water managers to work with utilities and others to keep the river from drying up in the stretch that runs through New Mexicos largest city. Its not uncommon for parts of the river to go dry south of Albuquerque depending on the time of year. Sen. Gerald Ortiz y Pino, an Albuquerque Democrat, said its crucial to have someone at the helm of the state engineers office who understands New Mexicos water history and can provide continuity in terms of the states policy direction. Some senators joked that they would like DAntonios appointment to run through the next 30 years given his experience. A native New Mexican, DAntonio started his water career with the Army Corps of Engineers in the 1970s. He previously served as state engineer from 2003 until 2011 when he left to take another post with the Army Corps of Engineers. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham earlier this year named DAntonio as her pick to lead the state agency once again. The full Senate confirmed his appointment unanimously Wednesday afternoon. Copyright 2019 Albuquerque Journal SANTA FE With just hours left in the session, New Mexico lawmakers reached agreement near midnight Saturday on legislation that would outline how a new voter-approved ethics commission would operate. The state House and Senate approved a compromise negotiated by a coalition of lawmakers, including Rep. Daymon Ely, D-Corrales; Rep. Greg Nibert, R-Roswell; and Sen. Daniel Ivey-Soto, D-Albuquerque. Agreement between the chambers was crucial because the legislation would have died if they didnt agree on a bill before adjournment at noon today. The proposal now goes to the governor. The process has balance. It will still be robust. It will be fair, Ely told his colleagues as he presented the proposal. I will be frank with the body it is not as transparent as Id like it to be. But its not an unreasonable compromise. Ethics complaints and the response by the accused would become public 30 days after the accused is notified that investigators found probable cause to investigate further. A public hearing would be set. An attorney for the ethics commission would serve as an investigator and prosecutor of sorts. Hearing officers would consider complaints. The commission: Could petition a state judge to issue subpoenas as part of its work. A particular judge would be designated to issue the subpoenas on behalf of the commission. Would have authority over statewide elected officials, legislators, candidates and lobbyists, but not school board members and local officials. Would leave enforcement of the states open meetings and public records laws to the attorney general, not make them part of the duties of the ethics commission. Wouldnt reveal ethics complaints that have been deemed frivolous or unsubstantiated. The accuser or accused, however, could publicly disclose them. I think were presenting to you a well-thought-out process a process that works, Nibert said. The House approved the legislation, Senate Bill 668, without opposition late Friday. The Senate signed off on the changes early Saturday. Establishing how the new ethics commission would operate emerged as one of the most contentious issues of the session this year. New Mexico voters last year voted overwhelmingly to amend the state Constitution to create an ethics commission. It won approval with 75 percent of the vote. But its been up to the Legislature to determine the details of how the seven-member commission would operate. Some senators pushed for more of the commissions work to happen in secret, while the House proposed broader transparency. DUBUQUE, Iowa As she waited to meet former Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper at a recent house party in Dubuque, attorney Connie OConnor was anxious about the liberal direction of the Democratic presidential primary. I know a lot of people who dont want to vote for Donald Trump but dont necessarily want to vote for the presidential version of Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez, she said, referring to the recently elected progressive congresswoman from New York. I think we forget those people are out there. But about 80 miles away, union organizer Eli Shepherd pointed to the thousands of people flocking to a Bernie Sanders rally at the University of Iowa as proof that the self-described democratic socialist is best positioned to beat the Republican now in the White House. People get brought in (to the campaign) because its something they deeply care about, Shepherd said. When theres a campaign thats actually focused on that, thats whats exciting, thats whats transformative, thats how you win. Democrats have a long fight ahead over this question of whos right. The early days of the Democratic contest are dominated by a debate over whether candidates such as Sanders are moving the party too far left or whether the embrace of liberal priorities will fire up the base and help defeat Trump. That debate is sure to deepen if former Vice President Joe Biden enters the race and tries to establish himself as a prominent centrist counterweight to Sanders, a Vermont senator. In the opening days of his 2020 campaign, former Texas Rep. Beto ORourke has also sought to appeal to both parties. Theres a tension, and thats what presidential campaigns are about, said Simon Rosenberg of the New Democratic Network. So far, the candidates are racing to prove their progressive bona fides on issues such as Medicare for All and the Green New Deal. Yet surveys suggest Democratic voters are less eager to tack left. A Monmouth Poll last month found 56 percent of registered Democrats said their top priority was a candidate who could beat Trump even if they disagreed with that person on most issues. A Pew Research Center poll in January found that 53 percent of Democrats wanted the party to become more moderate, while 40 percent wanted it to become more liberal. Though a few insurgents won Democratic congressional primaries last year, most notably Ocasio-Cortez, most of those contests were captured by candidates backed by the party establishment. Recent campaign swings through Iowa, the nations leadoff caucus state, by Sanders and by Hickenlooper, a self-described extreme moderate, illustrated the contradiction in the Democratic field. For the Sanders appearance in Iowa City, the soundtrack at the University of Iowa student union featured Tracy Chapmans Talking About A Revolution and Muses Uprising. Well over 1,000 people wore Sanders T-shirts, hats and buttons, some with 2016-era gear and others sporting the newer 2020 models on sale outside the hall. Cheri Pichone, a disability representative, brought a Sanders action figure to the rally. Pichone voted for Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein in 2016 because she said she believed the Democrats cheated to deny Sanders the nomination and shes worried it could happen again. I dont honestly see how anybody could beat him fairly, Pichone said. The crowd broke into a deafening roar as Sanders walked to the podium. This, he said, is where the political revolution began. Sanders was referring to the 2016 caucuses, when he came within a few votes of defeating front-runner Hillary Clinton in Iowa. Now Sanders is an early leader, raising at least $10 million, almost all in small-dollar donations, since launching his campaign Feb. 19. The initial sound of Hickenloopers first Iowa swing as a presidential candidate was a beer glass shattering. Someone inside the packed meeting room at Confluence Brewery in Des Moines dropped a mug just as Hickenlooper walked in. Hickenlooper began scooping up shards of glass. Theres nobody in this room whos cleaned up more broken beer glasses than me, Hickenlooper said. Hickenlooper started a brewpub in a then-desolate stretch of downtown Denver after being laid off from his job as a geologist in the 1980s. The business took off, made Hickenlooper wealthy and helped propel him into the Denver mayors office. In Des Moines, he stood in front of a wall of beer cans strategically arranged to create the number 2020, and talked about persuading Republican mayors of suburbs to join Denver in pushing a tax increase to pay for light rail. He recounted, after being elected governor in 2010, how he was able to get the energy industry and environmentalists to agree on limits on methane gas emissions. He bemoaned a national crisis of division. People in Washington, they spend their lives talking about stuff and debating and pointing fingers and blaming the other side, Hickenlooper said, in an apparent dig at the various senators running. Its about time to bring people together and get stuff done. In contrast to Sanders, Hickenlooper starts with no base outside of Colorado and little name recognition. He acknowledged hes a dark horse. One of the most common questions Hickenlooper was asked in Iowa was whether he was related to an Iowa governor and senator with the same last name who served from the 1930s to the 1960s. (The Iowa politician was indeed a distant relative.) The day after his Des Moines appearance, Hickenlooper stopped at five separate locations across the state. Joel Greenwald, 64, a retired banker, shook Hickenloopers hand at an event in Cedar Falls. Theyre pushing free, free, free,' Greenwald said about supporters of Sanders and other liberals. Youre going to turn off a lot of Republicans and independents if you say free free free.' But Greenwald isnt a Hickenlooper supporter. Hes waiting for Biden, who is teasing Democrats with the possibility of a third White House run. Hickenlooper received enthusiastic cheers when he spoke and wound up his trip in another crowded brewpub in Cedar Rapids. After Hickenlooper gave his speech, the crowd gathered around him. Karla Goettel, 69, made a beeline for the candidate and complained about his refusal on the television show Morning Joe to call himself a capitalist. There are a bunch of Democrats who are pissed off at capitalism, Hickenlooper told her. Goettel said Hickenlooper knew he messed up the question. Theyre all trying to be careful not to be too far right or too far left, she said. I just want to find someone electable. TCN News The killing of 50 worshippers in two mosques in New Zealand, Christchurch city on 15th March 2019 has sent waves of dismay in the whole world and Muslims especially are shocked and saddened over this incident. Gunmen entered the mosques and started firing at the people who had gathered for the prayers while one of them live streamed on social media sites. Support TwoCircles The two mosques are Al Noor mosque in central Christchurch and the suburban Linwood mosque. While the death toll is 50, another 40 people are still being treated in the Christchurch hospital while those with minor injuries have been discharged. And 11 of them are in intensive care unit. Four people have been arrested by the police. Two were the gunmen and the other two probably their accomplices. One of the gunmen who livestreamed the shooting is of Australian origin and supposedly wrote a manifesto in which he has stated that this is a terrorist attack making references to white genocide driven by mass immigration. Although the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern, has described this as a terrorist attack calling it as one of the darkest days in New Zealand, several news channels did not call it an act of terror but referred to it as mosque shootings which drew criticisms from many people. Armeena Khan, resident of UK, tweeted Terrorism isnt just reserved for Muslims. You need to fix the wording and dont downplay this in response to BB News ( World)s tweet. Heads of several nations including the Prime Minister of India have expressed their sorrow over this terrorist attack in which innocents have been killed. Ibrahim Abdul Halim, Imam of one of the mosques who survived the attack, said We still love this country. Dr Syed Zafar Mahmood, President Zakat Foundation of India The Zakat foundation has organised prayers in absentia Salat al-Ghaib for those who died in the Christchurch mosques in New Zealand. The salat-al-Ghaib prayers are being organised in many places over the globe where Muslims are residing. Dr Anis Ansari, IAS (Rtr), founder Vice Chancellor of Urdu, Arabic Farsi University, Lucknow, expressed sorrow at the shameful attack by the white terrorists to TwoCircles.net. According to him the reason of this attack is the speed at which Islam is spreading. He said, Since Islam is spreading in the west among the marginalised communities, the extremist elements among the white racists have felt threatened, hence this attack on the mosques which is symbolic of their desperation. Syed Fasiuddin, a software professional, Indian (Hyderabadi) residing in the US told TwoCircles.net that even there in the US the TV channels show a Muslim who may have committed even a petty crime as if he were a representative of all Muslims. He said this way they are injecting hate in the minds of people against Muslims and this incident is a result of all that hatred against Muslims. Some people build up animosity because of these rhetoric built by TV channels and political goons. Why are so many guns made available to the common man? Why are so many bullets sold recklessly? This applied to the Pulwama incident also. Where did that person who blew up the jawans get the material from? he asked. Hyderabad Womens groups organised a candle light protest to express solidarity with the New Zealand victims. The MP of Hyderabad, Assaduddin Owaisi, also expressed sorrow and prayed for the victims. Among the 50 persons shot down there are supposed to be at least 15 of them from India. And about 5 from Hyderabad who were residing in New Zealand from many years. However there are other groups who, though shocked and saddened, over this incident, not only condemned this barbaric act but also say that it is a well planned terrorist act and is a direct result of Islamophobia. Muslim Peace Coalition -USA leader Dr. Shaik Ubaid, the Co-Chair, in the press statement released said, We blame the Islamophobic propaganda for this massacre which has now become politically acceptable in many countries including the US because of the opportunist elements among the politicians and in the media who have joined the bandwagon of the religious extremists, ultranationalists and White supremacists. Even the President of the US has been guilty of Islamophobic hatemongering as admitted by the terrorist mass murderer in New Zealand. The terrorists belonging to the RSS in India, Ma Ba Tha in Burma, Kach in Israel regularly praise and quote the President. There is another side to this attack which Khalid Hasan, General Secretary of Awami Insaaf Movement, Hyderabad expressed to TwoCircles.net, The attack on the two Masjids in Christchurch, New Zealand while men, women & children were offering Jumuah prayers is extremely saddening & heart-breaking. However, this incident has brought entire nations & communities to stand with Muslims, offer their sympathies & actually had the opposite effect of what the killers wanted. People who never knew what a Masjid looks like, now have visited the Masjid in their locality with flowers. They are meeting Muslims neighbours & inviting them home, which was probably unthinkable before this incident. Most importantly, the MYTH of Masjids as breeding grounds of terror has broken as no devotee carried a gun or fired back. It is important that instead of locking up our Masjids as some people suggest, we must keep them open so anyone can walk in and see how peaceful Muslims are, he added while sending prayers to the deceased and strength for the survivors and the families of both. The plant treating wastewater from the Gold King Mine in southwestern Colorado is reportedly up and running on Saturday after being knocked out by a winter storm on Thursday. New Mexico Environment Department spokeswoman Maddy Hayden said the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency told them the that the treatment facility was in operation. We do not know at this point what actions were taken to get the system back online, she said. The EPA said fluctuating electricity stopped the plant Thursday night but didnt believe downstream drinking water would be affected. An avalanche blocking the access road also kept operators from reaching the plant, further complicating matters. According to a Friday news release from the NMED, The U.S. Geological Survey is sending a team that will collect water and sediment samples at multiple points in the state along the Animas and San Juan rivers. The facility was installed after the EPA inadvertently triggered a wastewater spill from the Gold King in 2015, contaminating rivers in Colorado, New Mexico and Utah. SANTA FE Lawmakers can expect to take up a proposal next year to make New Mexico the 11th state in the nation to legalize recreational marijuana. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said she will add the issue to the agenda of the 2020 legislative session. Its a 30-day session, so the governor has some power to set the agenda. A bipartisan proposal to legalize recreational cannabis through state-run stores narrowly won House approval this year but stalled in the Senate. It was the first time a recreational marijuana bill passed a chamber of the state Legislature. Lawmakers approved a separate proposal Saturday that would reduce penalties for possession of small amounts of marijuana. The state would impose a $50 fine on someone caught with up to a half an ounce of marijuana under Senate Bill 323, sponsored by Sen. Joseph Cervantes, D-Las Cruces. It would be a civil citation, not a criminal conviction. Copyright 2019 Albuquerque Journal SANTA FE Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham called it a celebration Saturday as she welcomed Democratic lawmakers into her office following her first legislative session. She didnt get everything she wanted, she said, and shes just fine with that. If youre winning every battle, Lujan Grisham said, then youre not taking on tough-enough battles. But she had plenty to celebrate. Her administration successfully pushed for passage of complex energy legislation, a higher minimum wage, two gun-control measures and a new early childhood department. Some of the governors priorities, however, didnt make it out alive before adjournment at noon Saturday. Moderate Democrats in the Senate joined with Republicans to block proposals to repeal a 1969 anti-abortion law and to withdraw more money from New Mexicos largest permanent fund for early childhood education programs. But Lujan Grisham said she was happy with lawmakers work on the whole. This is what an effective partnership looks like, she said during a Capitol news conference as she sat beside top Democratic lawmakers and Lt. Gov. Howie Morales. Republican lawmakers had much different view of the session the first since Democrats swept every statewide office in last years general election and expanded their House majority to 46-24. They also hold a 26-16 edge in the Senate. Some legislators, both Democrats and Republicans, said the session exposed a divide between urban and rural New Mexico. Sheriffs from across the state, for example, turned out repeatedly to testify against gun background checks and other gun legislation that passed the Legislature. I think theres a real divide in this state between rural and urban, Republican Sen. Cliff Pirtle of Roswell said, and unfortunately this year, urban seemed to take the day. But I think theres been a sleeping giant and hes been awoken. And thats rural New Mexico. House Minority Leader James Townsend, R-Artesia, put it this way: I think this session will go down in history as a session that failed to listen to the people. A new energy in building New Mexico lawmakers passed about 310 bills before adjournment Saturday a 12 percent increase over 2017, the last 60-day session, based on preliminary data shared by legislative staff. There was a whole new energy in the building, and I think that pushed a lot of things through, Democratic Sen. Michael Padilla of Albuquerque said. The bulk of the bills appear positioned to become law, too, unlike in 2017. Two years ago, then-Gov. Susana Martinez, a Republican, vetoed half the bills that passed and declared after the session, What a waste of time. Lujan Grisham said she and her administration will thoroughly evaluate this years bills before deciding on approval or vetoes. She has until April 5 to act on legislation passed in the final days of the session. Lujan Grisham didnt sound eager to deploy her veto pen. She said her staff was involved heavily in the Legislatures work from the beginning, not waiting until now to evaluate and weigh in on bills. If the Legislature got it passed, Lujan Grisham said, I work hard to get to yes. It would have to be a substantive flaw, the math doesnt work, or another significant issue. Nonetheless, she said she intends to explain her vetoes so that lawmakers have a sense of what to work on if they propose similar ideas in a future session. At least one significant proposal will bypass her office. Lawmakers adopted a joint resolution that will ask voters to amend the state Constitution to reshape the Public Regulation Commission, turning into a three-member body appointed by the governor, with help from a nominating commission. The PRC is now an elected body. Proposed amendments dont require a governors approval. It would go before voters in November 2020, unless a special election is called earlier. Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth, a Santa Fe Democrat who worked on the PRC changes, said the governors help allowed us to accomplish something that is beyond anything Ive seen in the 15 years Ive been here. Lawmakers, he said, passed critical bills on criminal justice, an ethics commission, gun control, education, film incentives and renewable energy. Oil boom dollars The heart of almost any legislative session is the crafting of a state budget. Lawmakers this year are sending the governor a $7 billion spending plan a record high driven by an oil boom in southeastern New Mexico. The proposal would ramp up spending on public education to address a 2018 court ruling that found New Mexico is failing to provide a sufficient education to all students. The budget is expected to maintain reserves of about 20 percent. I think the Senate did take measures to make sure we hadnt overspent, Senate Minority Leader Stuart Ingle, R-Portales, said. Theres always going to be up and down in the oil market, and whether you like it or not thats always going to be New Mexicos cash register. The work continues Lujan Grisham said she plans to keep working on priorities that didnt make it through this year. She testified twice before Senate committees as she supported proposals to tap into the Land Grant Permanent Fund to expand pre-K, home-visiting programs and other early childhood services. The proposals, House Joint Resolution 1 and Senate Bill 671, didnt succeed. But Lujan Grisham said she was happy lawmakers listened to her arguments and said she will continue to build relationships with skeptics of the idea. Journal Capitol Bureau Chief Dan Boyd contributed to this article. Iran has lost $10 billion in revenue since U.S. sanctions in November have removed about 1.5 million barrels per day (bpd) of Iranian crude from global markets, a U.S. State Department official said on Wednesday, Reuters reports. Brian Hook, the State Departments special representative on Iran, said in remarks at the CERAWeek energy conference that due to a global oil surplus - in part due to record U.S. production - the United States is accelerating its plan of bringing Iranian crude exports to zero. U.S. sanctions on Iran and Venezuela, two of the largest oil producers in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, and production cuts by OPEC and Russia have boosted global oil prices to near four-month highs. Iran reached an agreement with world powers in 2015 over its nuclear program which led to the lifting of sanctions in 2016 but U.S. President Donald Trump pulled out of the deal in May last year and reimposed restrictions in November. Trump has made it very clear that we need to have a campaign of maximum economic pressure on Iran, Hook said, but he also doesnt want to shock oil markets, he wants to ensure a stable and well-supplied oil market. That policy has not changed. The global oil market is looking for signs that Washington may extend sanctions waivers for Irans key customers in early May. The United States surprised the market in November last year by allowing eight countries to keep importing Iranian oil - in part causing Brent crude futures, the international benchmark, to fall to near $50 a barrel in late December after surpassing $86 a barrel in October. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) has projected that world supply will exceed demand in 2019 by 440,000 bpd, Hook said. When you have a better supplied oil market it enables us to accelerate our path to zero. But we also know that there are a lot of variables that go into a well-supplied and stable oil market, said Hook, a senior policy adviser to U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Washington sanctioned Venezuelan oil exports in January in an effort to oust President Nicolas Maduro and a massive power outage since last week halted crude exports from its primary port, essentially crippling the South American countrys principal industry. We are aware that our diplomatic and economic pressure, the timing and the pace of that affects Venezuelas oil industry, Hook said. Brian Hook, the State Departments special representative on Iran, said in remarks at the CERAWeek energy conference that due to a global oil surplus - in part due to record U.S. production - the United States is accelerating its plan of bringing Iranian crude exports to zero. U.S. sanctions on Iran and Venezuela, two of the largest oil producers in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, and production cuts by OPEC and Russia have boosted global oil prices to near four-month highs. Iran reached an agreement with world powers in 2015 over its nuclear program which led to the lifting of sanctions in 2016 but U.S. President Donald Trump pulled out of the deal in May last year and reimposed restrictions in November. Trump has made it very clear that we need to have a campaign of maximum economic pressure on Iran, Hook said, but he also doesnt want to shock oil markets, he wants to ensure a stable and well-supplied oil market. That policy has not changed. The global oil market is looking for signs that Washington may extend sanctions waivers for Irans key customers in early May. The United States surprised the market in November last year by allowing eight countries to keep importing Iranian oil - in part causing Brent crude futures, the international benchmark, to fall to near $50 a barrel in late December after surpassing $86 a barrel in October. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) has projected that world supply will exceed demand in 2019 by 440,000 bpd, Hook said. When you have a better supplied oil market it enables us to accelerate our path to zero. But we also know that there are a lot of variables that go into a well-supplied and stable oil market, said Hook, a senior policy adviser to U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Washington sanctioned Venezuelan oil exports in January in an effort to oust President Nicolas Maduro and a massive power outage since last week halted crude exports from its primary port, essentially crippling the South American countrys principal industry. We are aware that our diplomatic and economic pressure, the timing and the pace of that affects Venezuelas oil industry, Hook said. CHICO, Calif. - Chico's Islamic Center is taking precautions in the wake of the massacre in New Zealand. Members say local police will have a sergeant patrolling the mosque during Friday prayers for the next several weeks. Some members say they're shaken up, but say more security will put them more at ease. Members of the Islamic Center on Nord Avenue say they've received an outpouring of support from the community. Butte County members told Action News Now the attack won't discourage them from attending Friday mass. CHICO, Calif. -- Chico police are still searching Friday night for the driver in a hit-and-run that sent a man to the hospital with injuries. The hit-and-run happened just before 1 p.m. on Thursday on East Lindo Avenue just off Mangrove. Chico police now say they're looking for the driver of a blue sedan they say is responsible for hitting a man with the car behind the grocery store. Witnesses told police the car later drove away westbound on Mangrove. Police said they found the victim with lacerations on his face. The victim is a homeless man who is known to frequent in the area, according to police. Police said the victim was taken to the hospital with moderate injuries. Eighteen creative teams representing 18 cities will take part in the Young Lotus Workshop at AdFest 2019 in Pattaya, Thailand, which is being hosted for the first time by MullenLowe Group. Experts from MullenLowe Group will mentor teams from Bangkok, Cairo, Colombo, Dhaka, Gurgaon, Ho Chi Minh, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Karachi, Kathmandu, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Melbourne, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Taipei and Tokyo. The Young Lotus teams will first attend a series of talks and workshops hosted by MullenLowe Groups creative, strategy, analytics and technology leaders. Next, they will receive a real brief for a real client, Google with just 24 hours to meet the deadline. Ive seen first hand how challenging it can be to modify the behaviour and culture of an organisation. I believe the biggest change in our industry overall will come through this new generation of passionate, creative and adaptable digital natives. A mentoring programme like AdFests Young Lotus then becomes critical. It helps nurture the industry leaders of the future and give them a solid grounding of the various approaches and strategies I believe are required to drive modern communications forward, explained Vincent Digonnet, MullenLowe Groups Asia Pacific CEO and this years Young Lotus Chairman. Leigh Reyes, President and Chief Creative Officer of MullenLowe Philippines, is also joining MullenLowe Groups team of mentors. She remarked, This generation of young creatives has most likely been tackling real-world client briefs since school. The hustle is real. What makes this experience exceptional is the chance to work on a brief from a client known for ubiquitous innovation. Because creative solutions arent necessarily limited to communications, this will be a crash course in the underpinnings of a future-ready career: data-driven creativity, user-experience design, and an analytical approach to strategy. The top Young Lotus teams will present their work on stage during AdFest 2019 in a session called, MullenLowe Group Presents Young Lotus Workshop 2019: Full Stack Creative on Saturday, March 23 at 11.15. Afterwards, delegates will have the chance to vote for their favourite team to determine the Young Lotus Popular Vote. The Young Lotus Workshop is one of the industrys longest-running mentoring programmes designed to give the next generation of advertising leaders hands-on, practical experience. The programme is open to advertising professionals aged 30 & under, with teams selected by local representatives in markets across the region. AdFests Young Lotus Class of 2019: Bangkok: Kusuma Arunanonochai and Supanat Wachiralappaitoon (Art Director and Copywriter, J. Walter Thompson Bangkok) Cairo: Ahmed Waheed Hamdy and Nourhan Megahed (Associate Creative Director and Art Director, FP7/CAI) Colombo: Anuranga Ehelepola and Harini Akmeemana (Account Executives at J. Walter Thompson, Sri Lanka) Dhaka: Imtiaz Kabir (Visualizer, Adcomm Ltd.) and Jannatul Ferdous Pinki (Copywriter, Mattra) Gurgaon: Dipani Neb and Nandini Pathania (Senior Visualizer and Copy Supervisor, Taproot Dentsu) Ho Chi Minh: Anh Nguyen Hoang Ngoc and Uyen Nguyen Linh Phuong (Graphic Designers, Renaissance International School Saigon and Aioz Pte. Ltd.) Hong Kong: Christopher Lui and Hody Chan (Strategic planner and Group Head, PHD Hong Kong) Jakarta: Beata Ayu Primana (Junior Copywriter, TCPTBWA) and Cindy Raissa Wiyana (Art Director, MullenLowe Indonesia) Karachi: Khizra Ambreen and Merab Norris (Associate Creative Manager and Creative Strategy Planner, Orient Communications (Private) Limited) Kathmandu: Kiran Maharjan and Sanjay KC (Graphic Designer and Copywriter, Outreach Nepal Pvt. Ltd.) Kuala Lumpur: Carolyn Tze Lyn Chow and Zhe Yuan Chin (Creative Hybrids, Dentsu Malaysia Sdn Bhd) Manila: Arriane Veloso and Janine Bautista (Copywriter and Art Director, Publicis Jimenezbasic) Melbourne: Holly Burgess and Lucy Logan (Copywriter and Art Director, Leo Burnett Melbourne) Seoul: Sang Su Youn and Seo Yoon Chang (Assistant Managers, Cheil Worldwide) Shanghai: Eason Chen (Art Director, BBDO Shanghai) and Sheng Zhan (Copywriter, Energy BBDO) Singapore: Grace Wong (Junior Art Director, BBH Singapore) and Rachel Chew (Senior Copywriter, BLKJ) Taipei: Chun Peng Chen (Planner and Copywriter, YStudio) and Mei Shuan Wu (Senior Copywriter, Ruder Finn) Tokyo: Asuka Kobayashi and Mariko Kondo (Art Director and Strategist, Beacon Communications K.K.) AdFest 2019 runs from March 20 to 23 at the Royal Cliff Hotels Group in Pattaya, Thailand. The winners of both the Young Lotus and the Popular Vote will be revealed at the AdFest 2019 Lotus Awards. ON PURPOSE, a creative communications consultancy, has made three senior hires strengthening its team and offering for clients in strategic media counsel, crisis communications, digital media, capacity building and content solutions. Meera Krishnan joins ON PURPOSE as Consulting Partner with over 25 years experience in both in-house and agency roles including serving as Communications lead at some of the worlds largest telecom brands operating in India. Having started her career in advertising, Meera has also been CEO of one of Indias leading PR agencies and has a robust track record in advising C-suites on how to position and drive big picture narratives with media across corporate, business, technology and environment. At ON PURPOSE, Meera will be partnering with Founder and Managing Partner, Girish Balachandran in providing strategic counsel to clients, building a management team and winning new business. Diksha Sethi returns to ON PURPOSE as Head of Strategy after a short sabbatical. She specialises in training social media response teams and delivering capacity building workshops for private companies and government organisations, most recently for the State Government of Assam and National AIDS Control Organisation. Diksha started her career as a radio presenter for Indias first Just-For-Women radio station and has previously worked with agencies like Genesis BCW and Avian WE and been part of teams delivering award winning campaigns for clients like Philips, AB-Inbev, Qualcomm, Ford Motors and IndiGo airlines. A certified trainer from the World HR Board, Diksha also leads social media workshops for Times Professional Learning. At ON PURPOSE, Diksha will help build its core offering for clients in campaigns and content planning, social media and digital marketing. Neha Mathrani has joined ON PURPOSE as Content lead, to deliver creative writing and content strategies for its clients. Neha too, has worked with ON PURPOSE last year in a freelance capacity and has now joined full time. In her last role at YES Global Institute, Neha drove partnerships with key cultural institutions like UNESCO, Juggernaut Books, Harper Collins, British Council and Google. Neha has completed her Masters in Creative and Cultural Industries from Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane Australia where she was recipient of the Executive Deans Merit Scholarship. Commenting on the new hires, Girish Balachandran, Managing Partner, ON PURPOSE said, Were excited about being able to attract such experienced talent from both within and outside the industry. Our hiring strategy is rooted in what were hearing from both brands and organisations working in social change and those wanting to articulate brand purpose authentically. PokerBaazi, a leading online poker platform has announced its association with non-profit NGO Vidya Integrated Development for Youth and Adults (VIDYA). PokerBaazi will donate a share of the rake collected during the upcoming PokerBaazi Premier League Special Edition (April 21-28) towards the education and upliftment of 14 underprivileged girls for a year. In the domestic poker circuit, the PPL has already created quite a sensation over the past few years. Every year, gamers eagerly wait for the announcement, and this year was no exception. The announcement of the Special Edition with a CSR initiative seems to have doubled the excitement this year. The PPL Special Edition boasts a guaranteed prize pool of 5 Crore+ and will rope in some exciting additions to make this series more thrilling. Since its inception, the PokerBaazi Premier League has offered the participants a top-notch poker experience. The leading portal of poker games has decided to walk an extra mile to lend a helping hand to the underprivileged section of the society. This Womens Day, they have announced a tie-up with their welfare partner VIDYA and pledged to make a difference, one step at a time. Needless to say, the PPL Special Edition is going to create ripples following the CSR initiative adopted by PokerBaazi. The organizers are also expecting better participation compared to the previous years. Poker Baazi has already started campaigning with the idea #PlayForACause to reach out to the maximum number of professional gamers. In the words of Mr. Navkiran Singh, CEO of PokerBaazi.com The theme of the upcoming series is aiming towards a more balance and thus happier world. As a part of the program, Poker Baazi will donate a share of the collected bounty towards the education of underprivileged girls along with the expenses for their school uniforms, midday meals & transportation. This is an issue we feel deeply about and our team is charged up to get this noble initiative in play According to the organizers, this tie-up with VIDYA will result in more such CSR initiatives by Baazi Games. Initially, 14 girls will be covered by the program, and the company is looking to grow this number in the coming years. As a non-profit NGO, VIDYA set out in 1985 to help the girls and the underprivileged people of the society. Steered by the unparalleled leadership of Ms Rashmi Misra, VIDYA has already offered welfare programs in five major cities across India, including the remote areas in Delhi, Mumbai, Haryana and Bangalore. The team of VIDYA now comprises of 350 people including a bunch of foreign volunteers. Since its inception, VIDYA has already garnered support from various public and private organizations. This year, PokerBaazi has come forward for this noble cause. There are so many issues in our society and the denial of food, shelter and education - especially to underprivileged girls, is one of them. Through this PPL series, they are planning to spread the word, so as to inspire people to come forward and support this cause and make a difference. This World Sleep Day, Thrive Global India is partnering with Space, a premium home linen brand from the house of Indian textiles major Welspun, to issue a national call on the importance of staying well. This partnership aims to align Thrive Global Indias vision of adequate rest, sleep and wellness with SPACES product experiences to empower consumers to #StayWell. The collaboration will incorporate Thrive s science-based solutions and signature micro steps to focus on thoughtful living for the SPACES family and help it stay true to its mission of inspiring well-being among its consumers. For nearly three decades, Welspun has been committed to providing the best-in-class multi-sensorial experience through its wide range of superior and high-quality bath and bed linen. SPACES offer thoughtfully designed home linen products to address everyday struggles of usage, maintenance and appearance. With this partnership, Thrive Global India will help SPACES strengthen its efforts to bring mindful, comfortable living to its consumers. Thrive Global India and SPACES recognise that bath and bedtime are important daily rituals. In our busy, fast-paced lives, we dont give sleeping or bathing the importance we ought to. When these activities are used as me-time they help us pause, refresh and recharge. The Thrive-SPACES partnership will utilize Thrive Global Indias innovative, globally recognised approach to encourage consumers to prioritize their own mental and physical well-being and #StayWell. As part of the collaboration, Thrive Global Indias media platform will host a dedicated section that will provide curated content across a range of digital assets to take SPACES message to a larger audience. This will include a Thrive-SPACES Video Series that will feature new role-models of success who focus on me-time and staying well. Thrive s community section will also feature personal stories from users and expert commentary that will accelerate the culture shift around the importance of prioritizing well-being. Speaking of the association between Thrive Global India and Welspun, Founder and CEO of Thrive Global, Arianna Huffington said, Thrive and Welspun are united in our mission to reinforce the value of mental and physical well-being. With #StayWell, we hope to empower people to take the time for themselves each day, as the science is clear that the key to performing your best is to prioritize our own well-being, which includes making the time to unplug and recharge." Dipali Goenka, CEO and Jt. Managing Director of Welspun India, said SPACES is all about thoughtful living, hence, were delighted to partner with Thrive Global India to integrate our world class products with a thoughtfully designed experience that empowers our consumers to lead a stress-free and healthier lifestyle. We are keen on offering the best to our consumers quality, technology, and solutions that make their everyday lives better. Thrive Global India is part of Times Bridge, whose mission is to bring the worlds best ideas to India and share Indias best insights with the world. Times Bridges current portfolio of companies includes Uber, Airbnb, Smule, Coursera, Houzz, and MUBI, among others. Wacoal, the Japanese premium lingerie brand, announced its plans to boost investment in India. As a part of its global growth strategy, the brand will be investing around INR 100 cr over the next 3 years. To generate an increase in the volume of business, the company plans to grow its store strength from 12 stores to 70 exclusive stores and 80 shop in shop stores, adding up to 150 stores pan India. In addition to setting up more stores in the existing markets i.e. Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Chennai, Bangalore and Kolkata, Wacoal plans on aggressively focusing on 10 top cities taking advantage of existing operation network in all 4 regions such as West (Mumbai), North (Delhi), South (Chennai) and East (Kolkata). As next big steps, the brand will be foraying into to tier 1 and tier 2 regions across 30 cities including Nashik, Rajkot, Allahabad, Nagpur and Indore. Wacoal also intends to advance their sales in India through the existing partnership with e-commerce platforms, Myntra, Jabong, Tata Cliq, and their own website wacoalindia.com. This will be accompanied by an intensive cross platform marketing and PR campaign. Speaking on the announcement, Mr Tomoyasu Ito, Representative Director, President and Corporate Officer of Wacoal Corp., said, "We have seen an exponential growth seen in the Indian market since Wacoal's entry in 2015. With this expansion, we aim to explore its full potential, and further solidify our position as a leading entity in the country's luxury lingerie market. Our presence in additional metros will introduce a wider audience to the fit and comfort of our innerwear, crucial elements in the life of the modern woman. Our stellar success since launch has rapidly established Wacoal as an indispensable part of India's innerwear scene, showcasing India as a mature market with a desire for Wacoal's innovative, timeless collections. Wacoal, known for its superior fit, quality, exceptional craftsmanship, is backed by intensive product research done by Wacoal's Human Science Research Center. To enhance consumer experience, it aims to introduce a new offering customized for the Indian audience. This range will be tailored to suit the local fashion and colour palate. All Wacoal products are priced between Rs. 995 3995. Headquartered in Mumbai, Wacoal entered the Indian market in 2015 through a joint venture with Periwinkle Fashions Private Limited the flagship company of the Tainwala Group. Wacoal India Pvt. Ltd., is a joint-venture between Periwinkle and Wacoal International Hong Kong Co. Ltd. North Augusta City Council will be voting Monday whether or not to create a committee that would evaluate options for John C. Calhoun Park, where the Meriwether monument that has been the topic of an ad hoc committee and public outcry is located. Council will also vote on a resolution regarding text amendments to the North Augusta Development Code. In a Nov. 2018 meeting, North Augusta Mayor Bob Pettit presented findings of an ad hoc committee he formed regarding the 21-foot tall monument to Thomas McKie Meriwether, the only white man of eight who died during the Hamburg Massacre, which includes an inscription the mayor said then is "clearly, in my opinion, promoting white supremacy." During that meeting, Pettit presented a recommendation that an educational experience be added to the park but that the monument not be altered in any way. On Monday, Council will vote on a resolution concluding that the monument not be altered, that the monument includes text offensive and inconsistent with beliefs of present day North Augustans, and that an educational area be created "as a counterpoint to the viewpoint expressed by the text on the monument." The proposed resolution lays out what would be included in the educational display, including a summary of the Hamburg Massacre, the names of the African-American men who were killed and a discussion of accomplishments of African-American citizens. The resolution would also form a committee to develop a plan for the items in the resolution, which would be presented to City Council for approval and implementation. Committee members would be Pettit, Council member Pat Carpenter, Council member David McGhee, Charles Allen, Milledge Murray, Trina Mackie, John Felak, Mark Newell, Tony Carr and ex-officio member Mandy Nelson. +4 N.A. Mayor recommends educational additions next to Meriwether Monument The future of the 21-foot tall Thomas McKie Meriwether monument in North Augusta sparked som The other item City Council will vote on is a resolution that would direct the City Administrator to file an application with the Department of Planning and Development requesting text amendments to the city's Development Code regarding the Public Use zoning. "The Mayor and City Council have determined that some changes to the existing Development Code are appropriate and in the best interest of the City and that changes to the Development Code should be pursued," the proposed resolution reads. The first change included in the application would be to section 3.6.4.5.2, and would not require uses within the Public Use zoning to be subject to the standards of section 3.5 or 3.8. Currently, the Code outlines that Public Use is not subject to 3.5 but that standards of 3.8 apply. Section 3.8 defines the uses allowed in Corridor Overlay Districts. The second change in the application would be to section 3.8.1.1, which, if the change is passed, would be amended to read "This section applies to any lot or parcel within the following Corridor Overlay Districts that are designated on the Official Zoning Map, with the exception of those lots or parcels zoned P." Before the meeting, Council will hold a study session to discuss the two items to be voted on, as well as hold an executive session for discussions "related to Riverview Park land" and "related to land for provision of water services and treatment." North Augusta City Council will meet at 6 p.m. for the study session and 7 p.m. for the meeting. Both meetings will take place on the third floor of the municipal building at 100 Georgia Avenue. Every year, on March 16, a march in memory of the Latvian SS Legion is held in Riga. SS veterans and their young neo-Nazi followers from Latvia and other countries participate in it. Presentation of two-volume edition of archival documents From Nationalism to Collaborationism: Baltic during the Second World War, held in Moscow, was timed to this horrible event. Alexander Dyukov, director of the Historical Memory Foundation, researcher at the Institute of Russian History of the Russian Academy of Sciences, said: "Baltic authorities are glorifying Nazi accomplices, heroes of this book, heroes of many other works that are telling about their crimes, with a very sad consistency." "Criminals are welcomed in the modern Baltic States, they are glorified at the state level, they are not legally prosecuted. Crimes committed by Nazi collaborators fall under the Charter of the International Military Tribunal under the 1968 UN Convention on "Non-Applicability of Statutory Limitations to War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity." Despite this, Baltic states have never legally prosecuted Nazi collaborators. In this sense, the events of March 16 in Riga are extremely positive for us. We're looking at this march of old SS men, we're looking at collaborators, and it's obviously unpleasant, but this is a unique opportunity to recognize their faces and identify them so that they could finally be brought to justice. Russian law enforcement agencies can initiate criminal proceedings against them, since crimes committed in the occupied territory of the USSR fall under jurisdiction of Russian law enforcement authorities," historian said. "My colleagues and I carefully reviewed footage of the last SS march on March 16 of last year and identified several people. We show results of this work in a special video clip that will be posted on the website of our foundation. These people participate in SS marches, we know who they are, we know their biographies, we know their past. And I hope Russian law enforcement agencies will be able to initiate criminal cases against these people, because crimes, even if these criminals are supported by a neighboring state, should not go unpunished. On March 16, not only old SS men walk through the streets of Riga, but also their numerous neo-Nazi followers from Latvia and other countries: from Lithuania, from Estonia, from Ukraine. Identity of these people must be established as well. Glorification of Nazis is not a crime against humanity yet, but we can prohibit those people from entering our country on this basis," Alexander Dyukov noted. U.S. Rep. Jeff Duncan, a South Carolina Republican, is pleased President Donald Trump included money for an ever-controversial nuclear program in his latest budget request. "It is great news that President Trump included funding for Yucca Mountain in his proposed budget," Duncan said March 13 in response to questions posed by the Aiken Standard. Trump's fiscal year 2020 request includes a total $31.7 billion for the U.S. Department of Energy, a $1.1 billion increase compared to his last ask. The budget blueprint more specifically includes $116 million for what is effectively a Yucca Mountain restart and a related interim nuclear storage program. "The budget also demonstrates the administration's commitment to nuclear waste management by supporting the implementation of a robust interim storage program and restarting the Nuclear Regulatory Commission licensing proceeding for the Yucca Mountain geologic repository," reads the 100-plus page visionary budget, which was released earlier this week. Trump's FY 2019 budget request included $120 million for Yucca Mountain and the interim storage program. Trump's 2020 budget request highlights MOX, pit production, plutonium removal and more President Donald Trump's fiscal year 2020 budget request makes a significant set of pitches to both South Carolina and the Savannah River Site. Congress in the 1980s first identified Yucca Mountain, located in a remote section of Nevada, to become a sprawling nuclear storehouse. Congress then gave the project a further go-ahead in 2002. But Yucca Mountain prospects and funding, perhaps most importantly soured and spoiled during President Barack Obama's time in office. At the time, a federal spending watchdog said the project was terminated for political reasons. Duncan and a contingent of congressmen, including then-U.S. Rep. Mark Sanford, toured Yucca Mountain in July 2018. After the trip, Duncan, on a livestreamed conference call, said Yucca Mountain would make a great home for prepared and processed Savannah River Site nuclear waste. "Get it off the shores of Lake Keowee," Duncan said at the time, "Let's get it away from the Savannah River Site." On March 13, Duncan followed that same train of thought: "Yucca Mountain is the ideal site for long-term nuclear waste storage, and it's time to restart the program so we can move nuclear waste out of South Carolina and into long-term storage that was promised by the federal government to the American people." Duncan represents South Carolina's 3rd Congressional District; he's a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Would you like to receive breaking news notifications from The Post and Courier? Sign up to receive news and updates from this site directly to your desktop. Breaking News Columbia Breaking News Greenville Breaking News Myrtle Beach Breaking News Aiken Breaking News N Augusta Breaking News Click on the bell icon to manage your notifications at any time. Success! Please click the 'Allow' button in the 'Show Notifcations' alert in your browser if one is available. Thank you for signing up! Please enable notifications in your browser and reload the page. Two separate terrorist attacks in Iran and India last month - both perpetrated by Pakistan-based Islamist groups - have accelerated the ongoing convergence of Tehran and New Delhi. The first attack took place Feb. 13 in Irans Zahedan province, claiming the lives of 27 members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. On Feb. 14, in Kashmir's Pulwama, a suicide car bomb killed 40 members of the Central Reserve Police Forces. The attack in India was attributed to Jaish-e-Mohammed, and the Iranian attack to Jaish ul-Adl. On Feb. 16, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Indias External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and both agreed on close cooperation to combat terrorism in the region, per Araghchis tweet. But is Tehran really considering shifting its foreign policy in the subcontinent to ally with India against Pakistan? And will Iran side with India over Pakistan on the Kashmir issue and wider security issues? Iran and Pakistans relationship has historically been quite warm. Iran was the first country to recognize Pakistan as an independent country in 1947, and the shah of Iran was the first head of state to pay an official visit to the newly established Pakistan in 1950. The cordial relationship was partly based on belonging to the same stock, having a common heritage and sharing the same ideals, in the shahs words, but also because of political wisdom, or geopolitics. This political wisdom was embodied in CENTO, the anti-Soviet military alliance, comprising Turkey, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan and the United Kingdom in the late 1950s. Iran also provided vital military support to Pakistan in both Indo-Pakistani wars of 1965 and 1971. Surprisingly, both countries' politics underwent an Islamization during the late 1970s: In Pakistan, Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq took power in 1978, only a few months before the Islamic Revolution in 1979. Though Islam was understood to be a uniting factor in Iran-Pakistan relations before the revolution, it became a divisive force once Zia made his country a sanctuary of the Saudi-financed madrassa movement, which was vehemently anti-Shiite and anti-Iran. Despite Iran's support of the mujahedeen against the Soviet Union, it backed different groups than Pakistan. After the withdrawal of Soviet forces from Afghanistan, tensions between Iran and Pakistan skyrocketed, as the Taliban killed dozens of Iranian citizens, including diplomats, in 1998 in Mazar-i-Sharif. The plight of Pakistan's Shiites, including widespread discrimination, has always been a cause of divergence between Iran and Pakistan. Presently, Pakistan in pursuit of much-needed cash and in tandem with its Sunni ideology has chosen to get closer to Saudi Arabia in areas that Iran perceives as strategic threats. Saudi oil company Aramco has agreed to build a multibillion-dollar refinery in Gwadar Port, about 105 miles east of Iran's Chabahar Port. Pakistan has also opened the Reko Diq gold and copper mines, less than sixty miles from the Iranian border, to Saudi investment. Both projects have sounded alarm bells in Tehran, as they are located in the lawless province of Baluchistan in Pakistan. Iran is concerned that Saudi Arabia might use these projects as bases to destabilize Iran, in which case it would also jeopardize the future development of the India-backed Chabahar port. Chabahar provides India access to Afghanistan and Central Asia without passing through Pakistan. Thus, at least on this strategic issue, Iran and India naturally stand together against the destabilizing influence of Saudi-backed militias within Pakistan. On Feb. 27, Heshmatollah Falahatpisheh, chairman of Iran's parliamentary national security commission, warned that Pakistans inability or unwillingness to crack down on terrorists responsible for the attack on the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps might prompt Iran to boost security cooperation with India, which could isolate Pakistan. On March 7, Falahatpisheh welcomed Pakistans designation of Jaish-e-Mohammed as a terrorist group, but he also repeated his warning. Gen. Qasem Soleimani, the commander of the elite Quds Force, ascribed the attack to the influence of Saudi money in Pakistan, and promised to get revenge on the terrorists. Recent statements are in line with Tehran's gradual change in perceptions on the issue of Kashmir, viewing it more as a Sunni rather than an Islamic issue. Even many Indian Shiites do not support the Kashmir insurgency and prefer to live under the banner of Delhi rather than Islamabad. A prominent Indian Shiite leader, Maulana Kalbe Jawad, once said, There is no place where Shiite Muslims are safe except Iran and India. Kalbe Jawad warned of a growing Wahhabi influence from Saudi Arabia. Thus, it should not come as a surprise that some Shiite communities side with India over Pakistan in the recent tensions in Kashmir. India's Shiite community a minority within the Muslim minority has increasingly decoupled itself from Sunnis and chosen to side with nationalist Hindu movements. Irans closer relations with India, then, resonate with its commitment to support Shiite communities against adversaries. An example of this growing convergence of Shiite and Hindu nationalism against Sunnis is the Lok Sabha elections of 2014, when many Shiite leaders, including Kalbe Jawad, urged their followers to vote for the BJP rather than the Congress Party. Various Shiite groups have also announced their support of the BJP in the 2019 elections, because, according to one of the Shiite leaders, no other political party except the BJP cared for Shiite Muslims. Shiite groups side with the BJP rather than Sunni Muslims when it comes to heated issues like the construction of Hindu temple Ram Mandir in the Indian city of Ayodhya, banning triple talaq (instant oral divorce) and endorsing a ban on cow slaughter. In sum, apart from geopolitics, Iran will also have a solid ideological backdrop if it chooses to align with India vis-a-vis Pakistan. A riot broke out at the Covington County Jail on Friday afternoon during an inmate transfer, Sheriff Blake Turman said Friday night. The melee occurred around 4 p.m. as three inmates were set to be transferred to another jail due to illegal activity and disruptive behavior, Turman said in a Facebook post. Two of the inmates cooperated, but the third, Olin McGee, Jr., jumped into a crowd of unruly inmates, who could not be locked down because the locks to cells were inoperable, and caused a riot. Jail officials deployed tear gas to control the riot. No officers or inmates sustained injuries, Turman said. McGee was fighting and resisting jail officials who were taking him and the two other inmates to a van to be transported. The inmates were taken to a holding area in the jail as officials decontaminated the facility before the inmates were put back in their cells. McGee and the two other inmates, identified by Montgomery NBC affiliate WSFA as Jamie Busch and Brendan Scott Curry, were transferred to the Conecuh County Jail, the station reported. Turman thanked jail staff for getting the riot under control. A bad situation was controlled, no one was hurt, and order was restored, he said in a statement. I would take my employees with me anywhere to keep our community safe. They truly are their brothers keeper and the finder of lost children. Alabamas two U.S. senators are urging the Federal Aviation Administration and Boeing to follow proper procedures and make safety its top concern. Republican U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby and Democratic Sen. Doug Jones, in separate statements this week, said they support the White Houses decision to ground both the 737 Max 8 and 9 jets until they are deemed safe to fly following two crashes that have killed a total of 346 people. The most recent tragedy occurred on March 10, when 157 people aboard Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 were killed when the plane crashed shortly after takeoff. The FAA, in the immediate days following the crash, stood alone as the only major aviation safety regulator in the world not to move on halting the planes until President Donald Trump, on Wednesday, issued an emergency order to do so. Pres. Trump announces FAA grounding of all Boeing 737 MAX 8 and MAX 9 planes in the U.S. after Ethiopia crash. https://t.co/rTXhe3vULl pic.twitter.com/IR8LdMvSqu ABC News (@ABC) March 14, 2019 It is imperative that proper procedures are followed, and I urge the Federal Aviation Administration and Boeing take appropriate measures to fix the current issue and prevent this from occurring in the future, said Shelby, in a statement to AL.com. Jones, in a separate statement, said he believes that Congress should hold the FAA accountable. I strongly support the decision to ground the Boeing 737 Max airplanes until we have more information about the cause of these tragic accidents, Jones said. Given the delay in making that decision, I believe that Congress needs to utilize its oversight capabilities and hold agencies accountable. Safety must be our top priority. The FAA has come under scrutiny for being too cozy with Chicago-based Boeing, and for allowing the companys own experts to approve design changes and aircraft repairs. The agency has also admitted to not having the resources to keep up with the ever-evolving aircraft manufacturing industry, dominated by Boeing and European-based Airbus. Both companies have a strong presence in Alabama, with Boeing employing thousands in Huntsville and Airbus doing the same in Mobile. The only North American manufacturing plant for Airbus is located at the Aeroplex at Brookley, where the company plans to expand and build a more narrow-body A220-family of aircraft. Congress is planning to examine the relationship between Boeing and the FAA. The U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, led by Democratic Rep. Peter DeFazio of Oregon, is planning to hold hearings on the FFs process for approving the planes. At the end of the day, the American publics trust in air travel safety will continue only if the FAA exercises its oversight responsibilities in an unbiased way, said U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham. Congress must ensure that the FAA lives up to that expectation and puts the safety of the American people first. Boeings most popular aircraft is the 737 family, and the 737 Max is the companys best-selling jet ever. Southwest Airlines, for instance, exclusively flies the 737 and reportedly has more than 30 Max 8s. Other airliners embrace the planes fuel-efficiency and overall reliability. A whopping 4,500 of the planes are currently order. The immediate aftermath of the global grounding of the 737 Max has some national media outlets wondering if the companys competitors will experience a business boost. An Airbus spokeswoman, based in Mobile, declined comment last week. At least one industry insider sees little impact. I dont see any airlines changing their orders as a result of this tragedy unless the 737 Max has a serious design flaw, which it almost certainly doesnt, said aviation analyst Richard Aboulafia of the Teal Group. He added, On a short-term basis, I am sure there are airlines that would love an A320neo right now, or an A220, but production ramp issues and immediate customer obligations prevent Airbus from benefiting this market. The Airbus plant in Mobile, in January, broke ground on the construction of a more than $210 million assembly hangar that will begin churning out the A220s in 2020. The black woman named as publisher and editor of the small-town Alabama newspaper where the former white owner and publisher wrote last month that the Ku Klux Klan should ride again, has resigned. The news was first reported by The New York Times and confirmed by AL.com Saturday in an interview with Linden Mayor Charles Moore. Moore said that Elecia R. Dexter, who was named as the news editor and publisher on Feb. 21, was ran off by the former publisher, Goodloe Sutton. He never left the building, said Moore about Sutton, whose family has owned and operated the Democrat-Reporter based in Linden since 1917. It seemed like (Dexter) would be real energetic and her (hiring) was the right thing. Dexter was not immediately available for comment, and no one answered a phone call at the Democrat-Reporters office on Saturday morning. I would like to see them fade out, I mean, really, hes been in the position over the years that he couldve done a lot of good stuff here in Marengo County, said Moore, who accuses Sutton of tearing down the county and writing racially-insensitive articles that have upset black residents in a county that is a majority black. In this Thursday, Feb. 21, 2019 photo, Goodloe Sutton, publisher of the Democrat-Reporter newspaper, speaks during an interview at the newspaper's office in Linden, Ala. Sutton, who advocated for a revival of the Ku Klux Klan in a newspaper editorial, is turning over control to a black woman. The Democrat-Reporter, announced Friday, Feb. 22, 2019, that Elecia R. Dexter is taking over as the paper's publisher and editor from Sutton. (Mickey Welsh/The Montgomery Advertiser via AP)AP Sutton, 80, drew widespread criticism last month after he wrote an editor in the Democrat-Reporter calling for a return of the K.K.K. Several politicians, including U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, called on Sutton to resign. Sutton was also stripped of his past journalism awards, and was censured by the Alabama Press Association. Sewell, in a statement to AL.com Saturday, reaffirmed her call for Sutton to step away from the business. It is clear to me that Mr. Sutton must apologize and step down, fully and completely, to allow the Marengo community to move forward from his continued offensive and inappropriate comments," she said. Sutton, in an interview last month, said he had no regrets and claimed his editorial was misunderstood. The New York Times, in its report Friday, quoted Dexter who said she was continuously interfered with by Sutton. I would have liked it to turn out a different way, but it didnt, Dexter is quoted by the Times. This is a hard one because its sad so much good could have come out of this. Dexter told The Times that Sutton emailed an altered version of the Feb. 28 issue of the paper to local news outlets and advertisers, which showed an article about his retirement replaced with one defending his editorial and criticizing The Montgomery Advertiser for its previous coverage on the matter. The subject line, according to The New York Times: fake news hurts little people. Dexter told the Times she was stepping down to maintain her integrity and well-being. Moore said he hopes the newspaper fades out. The publication, with a circulation of about 3,000 subscribers, was also up for sale, Sutton told AL.com last month. They had a decent newspaper about 16 years ago, said Moore. His wife was a very good investigative reporter and a very nice person. When she passed away, all the credibility of that newspaper left. Jean Sutton died in 2003. Moore said that Sutton has been three years behind on paying his annual business license. He described the Democrat-Reporters office as an operation inside a one-room shanty. Moore said the attention from Suttons editorial has been way more than I wanted. Sutton, to AL.com last month, said it got him $10 million in free publicity. Its 2019 and youre aware that cybertheft is a genuine concern and that China is a constant suspect. But when officials from Washington come to Huntsville to tell you more about that threat, tell you things that maybe you didn't know and one of those people has a job title like "assistant attorney general for national security," you maybe sit up a little straighter and listen a little closer. Its very unnerving, said Kim Lewis, CEO of ProjectXYZ in Huntsville and one of about 30 business leaders who attended the meeting Friday. Its something we think about at a very high level but I dont think we think about it to that detail. John Demers, owner of that perhaps ominous job title of assistant attorney general for national security, led the summit at the Huntsville-Madison County Chamber of Commerce. Demers, as well as members of his team as well as local FBI officials, joined the information session put together by Jay Town, U.S. attorney for the state's northern district and a former Madison County prosecutor. The message from Demers, in summary: Huntsville is an obvious target for foreign espionage. So beware and be prepared. The CEO summit, as Town described it, focused on potential attacks by China. In fact, Demers said his office has been working for several months on the "China initiative" maybe another uneasy fact for business leaders to hear about. "We're talking to business leaders because of the high-tech companies in Huntsville and the very fertile ground it is for the kind of Chinese economic espionage that we've been working on," Demers said. "The folks in that room are doing cutting-edge research in a vast variety of areas from healthcare to finance to aerospace to defense all areas of interest to the Chinese government when it comes to economic espionage." So when Lewis spoke of the summit being "unnerving," that's what she meant. "For (Demers) to break it down to levels that we understand that there can be a threat at any level of our company from the high CO level to the maintenance worker in the company that can have access to your system, it's something you need to pay attention to," Lewis said. "They're looking at it from the perspective of China attacking your company in general. They dont care how they can penetrate it. And I think they gave us some of that general knowledge." That Huntsville would be an obvious target would seem obvious Redstone Arsenal, for one reason, as well as an array of high-tech companies associated with the Army and NASA. And that proximity makes everyone a target even if your company has nothing to do with national defense. "It says how important Huntsville is to our national security and all the components that we have here, the industrial complex we have here," Town said. "It's not just our aerospace and our military. We have automotive, we have biotech. We have nuclear and hydroelectric power. A lot of finance and a lot of other types of industries in this town. We are a diverse community. And all those sectors of our economy are present here and they are all targets of the Chinese government." Demers cautioned business leaders to be conscious not just of possible external cyber attacks but also internally from employees who may have been persuaded or co-opted in some way to steal your product and give it out. And all threats should be taken seriously, no matter how remote it may seem. An emphasis of the meeting was to encourage businesses to develop relationships with the FBI and U.S. attorney's office so that when someone sees something, they will know who to say something to. The threat is if you are stealing technology, youre stealing jobs, Demers said. Youre stealing the livelihood of people in this country. Its a rob, replicate and replace approach to technological development. Steal the intellectual property, replicate the product in China and then replace the U.S. company first on the Chinese market and if all goes well, on the global market. And that means people are out of work. This week, the European Parliament recommended the EU leadership to freeze talks on Turkeys membership in the bloc. On the margins of the International Winter School in Istanbul, organized by BILGESAM, Alper Caliber, a professor at Istanbul University Kemerburgaz, answered the questions of Vestnik Kavkaza about the prospects for relations between Turkey and the EU. -After 10 years of talks, the relations with the EU are almost non-existent. However, some European political circles who have a keen interest in Turkey-EU relations believe that either suspending or ending talks would be a fatal mistake Some politicians from the European Parliament think that keeping Turkey on a court to the EU is the best way to improve relations with two sides? What is your opinion? -Turkey and EU accession talks started in October 2005, so it passed already roughly 14 years. But these accession talks progress very slowly with snails pace. Just 16 of these chapters were opened and just one was provisionally closed. So as I know, in recent years, no other chapter was opened. The opening on the accession talks in some other chapters is now blocked by Cyprus, France due to different reasons. But the decision of suspension is still very important because in the history of the EU this was kind of the only decision, only resolution taken by the European Parliament against the candidate country. So there is no similar decision in the whole history of the European integration process. This decision was basically taken because the EU Parliament wanted to give a strong message and signal to Turkey - you are far from implementing the Copenhagen Criteria and you are distancing from the European values and norms and democratic principles, so this cannot be tolerated anymore. And unless you do the reform process again, these negotiations should be suspended. Whether their decision will be implemented by the EU countries, depends mostly on Turkeys policies in the near future. I am sure, there will be some negotiations behind doors and Turkey will try to do some cosmetic changes in the political system. If the EU side is persuaded by these changes and amendments, then this decision may be not applied. But still, this does not make a real difference in Turkey-EU relations because, as I said, these relations are de facto in suspension in terms of the accession talks. For more positive developments in Turkey-EU relations, we will need more reforms, more openings. But there are certain scenarios about Turkeys EU perspective and these scenarios are increasingly excluding full-membership perspective. -So, at the end of the last year, the relations between Turkey and the EU remarkably improved after the US trade war. Do you think these relations depends on such things? -I do not remember any sort of drastic marketing development in Turkey-EU relations. Yes, the US trade war and other sort of exclusionary and ill-managed US policies can create a certain environment where Turkey and EU can have a certain level of rapprochement, but this will be limited, this can never create a real momentum in Turkey-EU relations which can be translated in revival of Turkeys EU full membership perspective. If there is some strong dynamic this dynamic should originate from Turkey and the EU itself. -Do you think that Turkey will become a member of the EU? -Not really. I do not hope much for it. I am a bit pessimistic. Turkey tries to make some cosmetic changes in its political and legal system and the EU can say, OK, this is enough for the modernization of the Customs Union. But as I said for the real development of Turkey-EU relations we will need more radical reforms from the Turkish side and sort of transformation of the EU side. The EU also made it clear that the presidential system in Turkey in its current form will be an obstacle in Turkeys EU membership perspective. -But last year Turkish official said that if we had no improvement with the EU, we would enter directly the Eurasian integration process. How can you comment on this? -The Turkish government should not be the only party to blame. But the most responsibility in relation to the Turkey-EU crisis belongs to Turkey. Of course, as I mentioned, in the EU there are certainly some parties or figures who in any condition will be against Turkeys EU membership. But they are always there. Turkey by reversing its reform process just played into the hands of them. Time to time the EU could be more helpful but, in my opinion, the EU gave too much credit to this government because they believed this government would democratize the country. They did not want to see the anti-democratic practices for a long time. When they awakened it was late. -How do you assess the perspectives of Turkey-Russia relations in connection with suspending? -The accession talks wont have kind of impact on Turkey-Russia relations. Turkey-Russia relations should be considered in a broader context in relation to the region and global conditions. Especially in Syria, where they both cooperate and this cooperation is not welcomed by the US and some western European countries. But the main issue for the Turkish, Russian and US governments in the near future will be S-400 issue. Turkey and Russia agreed on this issue but this is not tolerable for the US government, because the US government cannot allow the NATO country to have this kind of Russian missile system. We are not talking only about some missiles coming to Turkey, it has very sensitive and sophisticated software coming with that. The US government basically thinks that if Russians enter the defense system of the NATO country through these S-400s, this will sort of endanger the US and NATO security. I do not see any kind of midway solution. A cold case murder that has haunted the Wiregrass region for nearly 20 years may finally be solved, according to Dothan area TV reports. Ozark police are reportedly interrogating a suspect on the 1999 deaths of two 17-year-old teenagers who were then-seniors at Northview High School in Dothan. Police have taken a suspect, later identified by TV news reports as Ozark resident Coley McCraney, into custody. The arrest was made after a DNA match was found through a family DNA website, according to WDHN news in Dothan. The site is similar to a genealogy and DNA database that led investigators last year to apprehend the California man believes to be the Golden State killer during the 1970s and 80s. Ozark police have not publicly confirmed the development, and no specifics about an arrest have been made. Efforts to reach Ozark Police Chief Marlos Walker, and other Ozark police officials on Saturday, were unsuccessful. A news conference is scheduled for 10 a.m. Monday at the Ozark Municipal Complex inside the City Council chambers, at which time authorities will release some developments made during the investigation into the deaths of Tracie Hawlett and J.B. Beasley. A report from WTVY in Dothan, citing unnamed sources, links the DNA evidence to the the deaths of Hawlett and Beasley, whose bodies were found in the trunk of a car in Ozark. McCraney had previously not been suspected of committing the crime, TV reports suggest. The girls, both 17, disappeared on July 31, 1999. According to Tracies mother, Carole Roberts, the girls had been lost and could not understand the directions they were given before stopping at a convenience store in Ozark. They had been on their way home from a party in Headland. The girls were found the next day inside the trunk of J.B.s black Mazda 929, on the side of Herring Avenue about one block away from the Dale County hospital. Both girls had each been shot once to the head, but there were no other signs of foul play. The killings so outraged folks throughout the Wiregrass region that they pooled cash and posted a reward. Within weeks, they had raised more than $15,000, and then-Alabama Gov. Don Siegelman kicked in another $10,000 in state funds. In the years immediately after the killing, investigators conducted more than 500 interviews, overworked forensics experts and tested the DNA of more than 70 potential suspects, according to past published reports. Police arrested Johnny William Barrentine, who they said implicated himself by putting himself at the crime scene during an interview with authorities. Barrentine later said he told police his fake stories to get the reward money that was promised at the time. He was later cleared when semen found on Beasleys clothing and skin did not match his DNA. The case has long remained in the minds of everyone involved, including family and former Ozark Police Chief Tony Spivey. Spivey, according to WDHN-TV, was seen leaving the Ozark Police Department Friday with Walker and Dale County Sheriff Wally Olson. We will gain closure in this case and we wont rest until that happens, Spivey told The Dothan Eagle in 2004. This story was updated at 6:11 p.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2019, to include additional details about the investigation and to include a notice of a news conference that will be held Monday in Ozark, Ala. Two men were killed overnight in Jefferson County, one in Birmingham and the other in Fairfield. In the first slaying, Birminghams East Precinct officers responded to the 200 block of 51st North on a report of shots fired in the area just before 10 p.m. Friday, said Sgt. Johnny Williams. Once on the scene, they found a person who reported being the victim of a robbery. During the same time, officers from the South Precinct responded to Childrens Hospital to investigate a reported shooting victim that had arrived by private vehicle. Officers soon learned that the victim was shot at the location of the East Officers shooting investigation. Rodregous Gurley leaves behind a wife, four children and others in the close-knit family. Personnel from Childrens Hospital provided initial treatment before transferring the victim to UAB Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Williams identified the victim as 39-year-old Rodregous Gurley of Tarrant. He said officers from both precincts coordinated their investigations and determined that the incidents were related. They learned that the person who attempted to report a robbery was actually the suspect Gurlys deadly shooting. The suspect was taken into custody. More information is expected to be released once formal warrants are obtained. Family members said Gurley was the father of four children and loved his family. Jamel Peppins In Fairfield, a 26-year-old man died after being shot in that city. Fairfield Police Chief Nick Dyer said the shooting happened about 6 p.m. in the 500 block of Seminole Circle. Jamel Peppins was taken to UAB Hospital, where he later died. Dyer said investigators are still trying to determine what led to the shooting. No arrests have yet been made. Peppins is Fairfields first homicide of 2019. Gurley is Birminghams 24 homicide this year. Of those, four have been ruled justifiable. The two deaths mark the 37th and 38th slayings in all of Jefferson County this year. Anyone with information on the Fairfield homicide is asked to call police at 205-786-5217. Anyone with information on the Birmingham homicide is asked to call 205-254-1764. Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous and qualify for a cash reward can call Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. After taking steps to cancel its first big mission, NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine is telling his employees and the aerospace business community that the space agency is committed to building and flying" the new rocket being developed in Alabama. Bridenstine told a congressional hearing Wednesday that NASA is studying the possibility of shifting the first of SLSs early missions to commercial rockets because SLS wont be ready when the agency planned to launch. That testimony before a Senate panel set off a social media sensation. SLS skeptics and fans of SpaceX and United Launch Alliance the two commercial companies most likely to get the launches leaped on social media sites to praise Bridenstine, as did SLS skeptics. The mission is test launch around the moon planned for 2020 of NASAs new Orion capsule and the European Service Module that will supply it with power, air and water. NASA recently said it cant make that launch schedule, and Bridenstine told the Senate using commercial rockets would be a one-time effort to keep the lunar return program on schedule. Within 24 hours, the space press was widely saying things like this sentence from a story on the website spacenews.com: In the day since that hearing, some have speculated that the proposal could be an attempt to demonstrate that the SLS was no longer necessary, particularly after the administrations budget request for 2020 deferred work on the more powerful Block 1B version of SLS and moved some payloads, including elements of the lunar Gateway and the Europa Clipper mission, to other vehicles. Bridenstine took to NASAs webpage Thursday to tell his workforce to know that NASA is committed to building and flying the SLS. He said SLS, a single large rocket that could boost both Orion and the service module at the same time, is safer and more efficient than the two-rocket solution he proposed to the Senate for the first flight. Bridenstine said he is trying to keep NASA on schedule for a return to the moon strategy strongly supported by President Trump. The plan calls for two launches, the one in 2020 with an uncrewed Orion, and a launch in 2021 with astronauts aboard. Shifting to commercial rockets if feasible would allow NASA to free up the first SLS for the launch of habitation or other hardware in in 2021. That would get NASA back on track for a crewed flight around the moon in 2022 Hicks said they intend to extradite Martinez-Guzman to Washoe County to face those charges as soon as possible and that he will be held without bail in the county jail in Reno but that his initial arraignment in Reno Justice Court has not yet been scheduled. The annexation of Crimea was a triumph of political manipulation over national interests and common sense. This is why old-school geopolitics alone cannot explain what really happened between Russia and Ukraine in March 2014. What usually debilitates the analysis of this episode, at least in the West, is the tale of an inherently violent alien Russian race intent on conquering the world. An identical twin of Kremlins myth about the West plotting to destroy Russia, it is peddled by hawks who live in symbiosis with their Russian counterparts and grow in strength by pushing polarising agendas. Of course, the image they are trying to sell cant be more different from the complicated reality of the relatively modernised post-Soviet mafia state with its mild authoritarianism, deep integration into the Western cultural and financial realm, and critically for the Crimean story extreme psychological dependence on feedback in the form of opinion polls and approval ratings. The latter serves as a substitute for electoral democracy, which has been squashed by Putins majoritarianism in Russia. To make sure the all-important feedback remains positive, Kremlins highly professional and media savvy spin doctors play on peoples emotions their dignity, their sense of injustice, their fear of strife and war while controlling the flows of information delivered via what remains the most important medium, television. In the spring of 2014, stars aligned in such a way that Crimea became an ideal object for such manipulations. Selling the annexation as an act of salvation The political cycle that led to Russias invasion of Crimea began in the fall of 2011, when Vladimir Putin announced his decision to run in presidential elections instead of allowing his ally, Dmitry Medvedev, to stay in the role for another term. Their swap, followed by a rigged Duma election, sparked the Bolotnaya protests in Moscow, which caught Russian leadership off guard. These anti-government protests, which continued intermittently months, sent the Kremlin in a state of panic, triggering its deep-rooted fears of a coloured revolution. The Russian president eventually got his act together and unleashed a campaign of repression against the opposition, bringing an end to the protest movement. However, Putins anxieties about alleged revolution plots by Russias opposition were soon replaced with a more urgent sense of fear as a real revolution broke out in neighbouring Ukraine. What came to be known as the Revolution of Dignity had every chance to dig Putins political grave. A country connected to Russia by a myriad of not just cultural and economic, but also family links (a 2011 poll showed that 49 percent of Ukrainians have relatives in Russia), Ukraine could have become a successful role model for Russians unhappy with the status-quo and eventually pull both countries towards freer society and greater integration with the EU. But Putin succeeded in turning the situation on its head. The Kremlin immediately launched a political manipulation campaign, making sure negative news about Ukraines revolution dominated Russian-language media at all times. In no time, news items on Ukraine became such a prominent feature of Russian television that it felt as if what was going on there was more important for Russian audiences than what was going on in Russia itself. News bulletins would sometimes have five items on Ukraine, with all events depicted in the most pessimistic and alarmist way possible, and only one light-hearted report about Putin meeting with milkmaids or cosmonauts. The latter would provide the desired contrast between Ukraines hell and Russias normality. The whole purpose of it was to show Russians how precious the relative stability in their own country is and what will happen to them, if like the Ukrainians they chose a revolutionary path. Putin also used Ukraines Russian and Russian-speaking populations negative perception of the countrys revolution, based on an historic sense of injustice and contemporary fears, to his advantage. Transferred by the Soviet leadership from Russia to Ukraine in 1954, Crimea is a region populated by Russian-speakers who were genuinely frightened by the prospect of finding themselves living under the rule of extreme nationalists. They have been lukewarm about Ukraines independence since the very beginning, and perhaps more importantly, had long been consuming the same Kremlin propaganda as Russians on their TV screens. Moreover, Ukraines revolution may have been a genuine popular uprising against a corrupt government that rejected greater integration with the EU, but it also had an ultra-nationalist component which was displayed in full view for all Russians and Crimeans to see Right Sector ultra-nationalists occupied a whole floor in the revolutionary HQ and flags and symbols associated with Ukrainian Nazi collaborators in the World War II were ubiquitous in Maidan square. This was naturally perceived as an existential threat by Crimeans and helped them turn their back to Ukraine and its revolution and embrace Putin as their saviour. Not a role model but a cautionary tale Kremlins gamble on Ukraines inability to become a beacon of progress in the post-Soviet space has paid off. Todays Ukraine dogged by war, still largely unreformed and ruled by essentially the same corrupt elite as before the revolution is not a role model, but a cautionary tale for Russians who might have otherwise been eyeing the possibility of joining mass protests against Putins regime. In the end, Putin succeeded in using a revolution that could have spelt the end of his regime to his advantage by forcing Russias entire population into binge watching daily episodes of an endless series about Ukraine burning in hellfire. Much of that could have been avoided if instead of turning Ukraines uprising into a farcical version of a grand Cold War-style confrontation with Russia, the West focused on steering Maidan revolutionaries away from polarising and self-defeating ethnonationalism while applying pressure on the post-revolution government to dismantle the cabal of corrupt judges, prosecutors, detectives and rich lobbyists that guaranteed Ukraine remains a mafia state. Putin framed the invasion and eventual annexation of Crimea as an act of salvation rather than a clear violation of international law and turned a revolution which could have marked the end of his rule into a much-needed popularity booster the wave of chauvinism triggered by the annexation of Crimea sent Putins approval ratings to an unbelievable 89 percent, while sidelining the opposition and giving him another five years of relatively trouble-free time at home. But today, on the fifth anniversary of the hastily organised referendum on the status of Crimea, which hasnt been recognised as a legitimate vote even by Russias ex-Soviet allies, not to mention the rest of the world, the Russian leaders winning streak seems to be over. His approval ratings are back at where they were before the annexation and continuing to fall, while the opposition, led by a charismatic leader, Alexei Navalny, is slowly maturing and enlarging its support base. Putins trouble is, this time around there is no flawed revolution or ripe propaganda opportunity like Crimea that can help him solve his popularity problem. His supporters are still expecting him to pull off another trick, but it appears, at least for now, that there is nothing left up his sleeve. The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance. The media-hungry terrorist responsible for the Christchurch shootings does not deserve our attention. His victims do. I still dont know the name of the terrorist. Nor do I care to know it. Following the carnage at two Christchurch mosques in New Zealand on Friday, that debilitating grip of anger mixed with fear, anxiety coupled with hate, crept in. I rushed, minutes after learning about the massacre, to uncover the motive, glean through the manifesto, and grapple with the vile white supremacy that drove the terrorist. Then I stopped. I realised, after sifting through the bleak headlines and darker social media posts, that his broader objective was reeling us in. Seducing us into examining his very word, affixing our eyes to his image and video of the massacre, and most lastingly, memorising his name. This was the bigger mission that followed the massacre. He wanted us spellbound. Lured into humanising every dimension of his being, and every vile sliver of his act, in place of the victims. Their lives, their stories, and most notably, their names. All 49 of them. Again, I stopped, turned my attention from the terrorist and fully onto the victims. While the media was fully wed to telling the terrorists story, highlighting his commitment to inciting civil war in America and showcasing his admiration of a motley crew of white supremacists such as Dylann Roof and Anders Breivik, I embraced the Muslim victims. And began a thread to share their stories, celebrate their lives, and say their names. https://twitter.com/KhaledBeydoun/status/1106746726864637952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw If we dont tell our stories, the history of mainstream media affirms time and again, nobody will. Muslims are typically newsworthy when villains not victims. And Islamophobia is perpetuated by portraying Muslims, whether victims or villains, as a faceless, nameless, and monolithic bloc. By profiling the victims, I simultaneously challenged that damning stereotype, and dodged the booby trap set by the media-hungry terrorist. I profiled three-year-old Muca Ibrahim, the youngest of the 49 victims, who entered the mosque with his family members only to be shot. The youngest child of Somali refugees who wrongly thought New Zealand offered a safe haven from terrorism. Not far from young Muca laid Daoud Nabi, the oldest of the victims. The 71-year-old grandfather was the terrorists first victim to be named publicly. Witnesses said he leapt in front of a barrage of bullets to save another worshippers life. He survived gunshots and war in his native Afghanistan, but was murdered in a democracy where white supremacy and Islamophobia are ferociously rising. Nabi was not the lone hero on that fateful day. Shortly after his 20-year-old son Talha was killed, Naeem Rashid rushed towards the terrorist barehanded. Naeem marshalled infinite courage while experiencing immense pain, knowing that this act of faith would be his last. He too was shot, but steered the murderers gun away from others and saved lives before his final breath. Another son, Abdullahi Dirie, was killed shortly after praying alongside his father. The precocious four-year-old insisted on attending the mosque with his family, Somali immigrants that sought a better life for their youngest and his four siblings. He ran into the mosque that Friday, wide-eyed and wide-smiled. A family member held him tightly to his chest, one final time, as they walked out of the mosque a sacred place of worship turned into a mass murder scene. These are only a handful of stories of the victims. The names, the faces, and the short vignettes of longer profiles and aborted lives that too often reduced into statistics. A dehumanised digit, or in this case, two 49 that fails to capture the depth of the pain of their loved ones, and more importantly, the depth of the lives that they led. That depth of attention, a morbid journalistic twist indeed, is usually reserved for the terrorist. And especially, when that terrorist is a white male. We rush to learn about their every word and motive, childhood factoid and ideological inspiration. And the mainstream media makes all of this readily available for us, in turn luring our attention towards the villain and away from the victims. If white supremacist violence and its broader aim of promoting itself through baiting the media in the wake of mass murder is to be retrenched, we must actively resist sharing, retweeting, and perpetuating the images and ideas. Turning our attention to the victims and celebrating their lives in the midst of grief is the first and most vital step. The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance. In Armenia, the Special Investigation Service opened a criminal case against the newspaper "Zhokhovurd" (The People) for disclosing preliminary investigation data on the case of ex-President Serzh Sargsyan. The publication published excerpts from the preliminary testimony of Sargsyan, passing as a witness in the March 1, 2008 case. Considering that there are signs of a crime in under Article 342 of the Criminal Code of Armenia (Disclosure of preliminary investigation or inquiry data), a criminal case was initiated by the investigator of the Special Investigation Service, the ministrys press service reported. On March 15, Mehdi Hasan interviewed Erik Prince on the Al Jazeera show Head to Head. Much as the shows title suggests, Hasan is a hard-hitting questioner eager for that got you moment. Hasan was well prepared with Princes congressional testimony in hand and appears to have caught Prince in some double talk about an August 3, 2016 meeting at Trump Tower (with George Nader, Joel Zamel, Steven Miller, and Donald Trump Jr). In the interview, Prince, after he mistakenly asserted he had told Congress about the meeting, also disclosed what the meeting was about: Iran policy. As Hasan writes in his blog, in a November 2017 testimony, Prince denied any formal connection to the Trump campaign so this revelation appears to catch him lying. Princes excuse that the testimony on record must be wrong was aptly described as cringe-worthy on MSNBC. Hasan asks what Prince has to hide. We are all wondering and I respect Hasans preparation and willingness to press hard for this moment. Hasans style of questioning was so focused on that got you moment, though, that he left important questions about other issues unasked. The answers to these questions may not open an investigation on Prince but they might help us understand the logic behind Princes plans in Afghanistan, his involvement, via Frontier Services Group(FSG) in China, and how he sees the role of companies like FSG in American foreign policy. FSG, like some other private military and security companies (PMSCs), such as the Wagner Group, has not only been active and in the news, but also operates outside the governance system that has grown to regulate this industry. When Hasan asked about how Princes plan for Afghanistan could possibly work given that many more US and NATO forces had not been successful, Prince replied that his plan would rationalise the effort in Afghanistan. But how? Prince filled in one detail: continuity. This is actually a reasonable response. It is often the case that contractors can keep people in the field longer than the military can and continuity is one of the long ago mentioned advantages of using them. But what else? We do not know. I am on the record (more than once) voicing scepticism about Princes plan to privatise the Afghan war. PMSCs work differently from military forces and that should lead us to doubt their counterinsurgency value. Different recruitment, motivation, rules, training, and flexibility have contributed to concerns over misbehaviour by individuals, PMSCs, and the governments (and other clients) that contract with them. While the International Code of Conduct (ICoC), Private Security Standards, and other transnational regulatory efforts draw PMSCs closer to rules for public forces, Princes plans would violate some of those regulations. Nothing I heard in the interview changed my mind. Hasan also pushed Prince hard on the abuses in Iraq. The abuse was not confined to Blackwater, but Blackwater became the shorthand for offensive contractors in Iraq. Why that had little to do with whether Blackwater personnel were angels or not few were in that context. Instead, what mattered was what Blackwater, as a company, did to limit the risk of misconduct before it happened and then how it held its personnel accountable when something did happen. The company fell short on both of these. The most useful intervention was from Ghaith Abdul Ahad, an Iraqi journalist who clearly appreciated how Blackwater was understood in that country, as synonymous with corruption, violence, and all that was wrong with the US invasion. The name Blackwater became one and the same with a bad contractor not because of what it was but because of what it did. Hasan also asked about the work FSG was planning in Xinjiang, China where Uighur Muslims are reportedly being held in detention. Here again, Hasan was prepared for the got you. He had the FSG press release, but I am not sure he understood exactly what it meant. Prince said FSG was working on a construction contract and nothing in the text read by Hasan indicated that it was anything other than establishing a facility, and that could reasonably be understood as a construction project. If Prince did actually provide military training in China without a license from the US State Department, he could be in violation of US law. But there are very important other questions that do not involve legal wrongdoing. Who is FSG working for in building this facility? What else are they doing in China besides the kidnapping training that Prince mentioned? Again, asking these may not incriminate Prince, but could give us important insights into FSG, its clients, and its operations in China. Among the more interesting responses from Prince, I thought, was his assertion that US foreign policy was under the thumb of the military industrial complex. While many might agree, they are far to the left of Trump and most of them would consider Prince, especially when he owned Blackwater, to be part of that complex. Why does Prince see himself as different? Not a trap question, but one that might give us much more insight into how Prince (and potentially Trump) sees the world and the more traditional security policy establishment. As a scholar and citizen wondering how the US will act on the global stage during the Trump presidency and where it will go after the growing polarisation, I would like to hear the answer. Mehdi Hasan was well-prepared to trap Erik Prince with questions about his conduct and he did. This is an important step for which he should be congratulated. Had he been better prepared to listen to Princes responses and use Princes answers to shape the interview, though, we might have found out more about the logic driving a part of the PMSC industry that is largely spurning the fledgeling governance system that the US has supported. As the number and variety of these PMSCs continues to grow and American support for the governance system is under some question, I hope other journalists will aim for a more nuanced understanding that will help us understand it and shape its behaviour. The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance. Daoud Nabi, 71, spent his life helping refugees in New Zealand and recently reflected on his own death, says his son. In 1979, Haji Daoud Nabi escaped the Soviet-Afghan war and took his young family to safety in New Zealand. Almost 40 years later, on Friday, he was shot and killed at Al Noor mosque in Christchurch. The first named victim of the massacre, Nabi ran an Afghan Association and spent his life trying to help refugees start new lives, making sure they were fed and protected. 190316052155064 He used to make them feel at home, his 43-year-old son Omar, told Al Jazeera on the telephone from Christchurch. Along with some of the other 48 people who were killed on Friday, including children, Nabis funeral will be held on Saturday. My father lived all his life in this country [New Zealand] and will be buried here, said Omar. During Friday prayers on the Al Noor and Linwood mosque, 28-year-old suspect Brenton Tarrant allegedly shot indiscriminately at the worshippers and livestreamed his assault the worst mass shooting in the countrys modern history. As several victims on Saturday remained in the hospital, including a four-year-old in critical condition, Tarrant appeared unrepentant in a court, staring down members of the press with a smirk. He was charged with murder and remanded without a plea. His next appearance in the South Island citys High Court will take place on April 5. Nabi, 71, is survived by four sons, one daughter and nine grandchildren who he loved immensely, said Omar. His grandchildren really miss him and some of them dont even know that he is no more with us. This is a very difficult time for us and for everyone who lost their loved ones in this massacre. Just two days ago, Nabi spoke of the importance of unity. My father said how important it is to spread love and unity among each other and protect every member of the society we live in, Omar said. 190315152715528 His father also spoke about the end of his own life in a comment that is now ringing in Omars mind. He said the best place to pass away was during Friday prayers in a mosque. Some Muslims believe that Prophet Muhammad said there is a virtue in dying on a Friday, Islams holiest day. As victims grieve, the world is rallying around them with messages of support and fundraising. A crowdfunding page has gathered almost $1m for the affected families. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah condemned the massacres in separate statements. Terrorist attacks on the mosques [in New Zealand] once again showed that terrorists are not dependent to any religion and they are the enemies of humanity, Ghani said in the statement. Wahidullah Waissi, Afghanistans ambassador to Australia, New Zealand and Fiji said on Twitter that two Afghans were killed in the attack. Minister says far-right activist denied Australia visa over his social media response to the New Zealand mosque attacks. Australia has denied a visa to far-right commentator Milo Yiannopoulos after he responded to a mosque massacre in the New Zealand city of Christchurch by branding Islam barbaric and alien. David Coleman, Australias immigration minister, said in a statement on Saturday that Yiannopouloss social media comments were appalling and foment hatred and division. Milo Yiannopoulos will not be allowed to enter Australia for his proposed tour this year, the statement said. Coleman did not specify the comments he was referring to. Yiannopoulos is a former editor of the US-based far-right website Breitbart news site who has regularly railed against Muslims, immigrants and the press. On Friday, he said on Facebook that attacks like Christchurch happen because the establishment panders to and mollycoddles extremist leftism and barbaric, alien religious cultures. At least 49 Muslim worshippers were killed and 40 more wounded on Friday when a gunman attacked two mosques in the southern city. Brenton Tarrant, an Australian-born 28-year-old man, was charged on Saturday with murder over the gun assaults, the worst ever mass shootings in New Zealands recent history. In his statement, Coleman said the terrorist attack in Christchurch was carried out on Muslims peacefully practicing their religion. He added: It was an act of pure evil. Australian media has reported that the government of Prime Minister Scott Morrison already decided in March not to grant a visa to Yiannopoulos, but then changed its position after protests from conservatives in the ruling Liberal Party. Yiannopouloss speaking tours have sparked violent protests at universities in the past. During a 2017 event with Yiannopoulos in Melbourne, fights broke out between dozens of his supporters and anti-racism protesters. He has been banned from Twitter and resigned as Breitbart editor in 2017 after comments in which he appeared to condone paedophilia. 190316081740694 Yiannopoulos responded to the visa ban in a Facebook post on Saturday, saying his comments were not remotely objectionable. I criticised the establishment for pandering to Islamic fundamentalism. So Australia banned me again, he wrote. Senator egged Separately on Saturday, an Australian senator had a raw egg cracked over his head after he blamed Muslim immigration for the mosque shootings. Television cameras caught a 17-year-old boy breaking an egg on Fraser Annings head and briefly scuffling with the independent senator at a news conference in Melbourne. Anning came under blistering criticism over tweets on Friday including one that said; Does anyone still dispute the link between Muslim immigration and violence? The real cause of the bloodshed on New Zealand streets today is the immigration program which allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place, he said in a statement. Morrison, the prime minister, said he denounced Annings comments. In his conflation of this horrendous terrorist attack with issues of immigration, in his attack on Islamic faith specifically these comments are appalling and theyre ugly and they have no place in Australia, in the Australian Parliament, Morrison said. He should be, frankly, ashamed of himself. The government and opposition party agreed to pass a censure motion against Anning over his stance on the Christchurch shootings when parliament resumes in April. Bilal Rauf, spokesman for the Australian National Imams Council, the nations top Muslim group, likened the senators views to the rambling manifesto published online by suspect Tarrant before the attacks. When one looks at his statement, it may as well have been an extract from the manifesto of the person that perpetrated these heinous crimes, this act of terrorism in Christchurch, Rauf said. A far-right Australian senator had to be restrained by security officials after punching a young man protesting his offensive comments about the mosque attacks in Christchurch, New Zealand. Queensland Senator Fraser Anning drew international condemnation for his efforts to blame the attack on Friday that killed 49 Muslim worshippers on immigration. Amid the controversy, an unnamed young man slapped an egg on the back of Annings head during a news conference in Melbourne on Saturday, prompting the senator to hit him in the face repeatedly before being stopped by what appeared to be a security guard. In a statement on Friday, Anning had said the attack which killed the worshippers in the southern New Zealand city was the result of Muslim immigration into the country. Someone has just slapped an egg on the back of Australian Senator Fraser Anning's head, who immediately turned around and punched him in the face. @politicsabc @abcnews pic.twitter.com/HkDZe2rn0X Henry Belot (@Henry_Belot) March 16, 2019 Prime Minister Scott Morrison described Annings comments as appalling and ugly with no place in Australia, as he announced a bipartisan motion of censure would be launched. UPDATE: The boy who egged disgraced Senator Fraser Anning has been released by @VictoriaPolice without charge. @7NewsMelbourne Kristy Mayr (@KristyMayr7) March 16, 2019 Anning was elected in 2017 by a fluke of Australias proportional voting system, having received only 19 first preference votes. He is unlikely to be re-elected when Australia holds next elections, expected in May. The storm which brought floodwater and widespread destruction to Mozambique and Malawi has reached Zimbabwe. At least 31 people have been killed and dozens are missing in parts of eastern Zimbabwe after the country was hit by tropical cyclone Idai which lashed neighbouring Mozambique and Malawi, the government said. Cyclone Idai has affected more than 1.5 million people in the three southern African countries, according to the United Nations and government officials. Homes, schools, businesses, hospitals and police stations have been destroyed. Roads have been washed away and thousands are stranded by heavy flooding. Zimbabwes Ministry of Information said on Saturday that the deaths were mainly from Chimanimani East, including two students, while at least 40 other people have been injured. It added that the Zimbabwean national army was leading rescue efforts to airlift students from a damaged school and others trapped by the storm. 190315112134686 A group of people, who fled their homes, was marooned on top of a mountain waiting to be rescued, but strong winds were hampering helicopter flights, the ministry said. Joshua Sacco, a member of parliament in Chimanimani district, said at least 25 homes were swept away following a mudslide at Ngangu township. There were people inside, he told AFP news agency. The information we have so far is that over 100 people are missing. In a Twitter post, Jacob Mafume, spokesman for Zimbabwes main opposition Movement for Democratic Change party, warned that there was a serious humanitarian crisis unfolding in eastern Zimbabwe districts. Serious humanitarian crisis unfolding in chimanimani chipinge most of our structures comms are down.We need state intervention on a massive scale to avoid biblical disaster ,homes bridges being washed away lives in danger @hwendec @daddyhop@kwirirayi @nelsonchamisa @mdczimbabwe pic.twitter.com/QSVEe7yiG7 Mayor of Harare, Jacob Mafume (@JMafume) March 16, 2019 In Mozambique, where Idai made landfall on Thursday, at least 19 people died and about 70 were severely injured. The storm hit with wind gusts of about 160 kilometres per hour, causing ocean waves of up to nine metres high. Al Jazeeras senior meteorologist, Steff Gaulter said a lot more rain was expected over the next days. Eastern Zimbabwe reported 400 millimetres of rain over the last 24 hours and theres a lot more torrential rain to come for central Mozambique and neighbouring Zimbabwe, Gaulter said. Some models are estimating as much as 900mm in the next three days. This would cause immense flooding and trigger further landslides, and the water would then have to drain into the sea. This would mean further flooding would occur as the water surges down the rivers. Luis Fonseca, a journalist at Lusa News Agency, told Al Jazeera that the cyclone would continue to create trouble. 190313182345819 The problem now is that the rivers are likely to flood all the areas around, and this will cause even more damage to all these families which have [already] lost their houses. Now they risk losing their harvest and food insecurity is the next big risk in all over this area, Fonseca explained. Local officials in Mozambique said that heavy rains earlier in the week, before the cyclone struck, had already claimed another 66 lives, injured scores and displaced 17,000 people. When the cyclone hit Mozambique, authorities were forced to close the international airport in the port city of Beira after the air traffic control tower, the navigation systems and the runways were damaged by the storm. An official at the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) of Mozambique told AFP on Friday there is extreme havoc. Some runway lights were damaged, the navigation system is damaged, the control tower antennas and the control tower itself are all damaged. The runway is full of obstacles and parked aircraft are damaged. The storm also brought heavy downpours in neighbouring Malawi this week, affecting almost a million people and claiming 56 lives, according to the latest government toll. South Africas military has sent in aircraft and 10 medical personnel to help in Mozambique and Malawi, it said in a statement on Saturday. Stunned Muslim community struggles to deal with aftermath of attack as suspect flashes white power gesture at court. As Christchurchs Muslim community reels from a devastating attack on two mosques that killed at least 49 worshippers and wounded dozens others, the New Zealand city has begun digging graves for the victims of the deadliest mass shooting in the countrys modern history. Excavators were called in on Saturday to remove the vast amount of earth needed to bury the dead, although police have yet to release some of the bodies to families. A 28-year-old Australian identified as Brenton Harrison Tarrant has been charged with murder after the shootings at the Al Noor and Linwood mosques, in what New Zealands Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern called a terrorist attack. Al Jazeeras Wayne Hay, reporting from Christchurch, said both sites were still an active crime scene. Police are continuing their forensic work in and around the mosques. While that has been happening, some of the bodies have been taken out and returned to their family members so that their burial and funeral arrangements can begin as quickly as possible, he said. Hearses were seen arriving and leaving the mosques. At a makeshift memorial in Christchurch, a steady stream of hundreds of people laid flowers and lit candles, some standing quietly, others crying or visibly distressed. 190316065121065 Among those gathered were survivors of the attack. Ahmed Khan said one of his friends a man he identified as Imran from India was shot by the gunman at Linwood mosque. One bullet on his shoulder, so I was holding him, he said. And then the gunman put the gun through the window and shot him. While he was on my lap, he shot him a couple of bullets in the head. Abdi Shaik, another survivor of the attack on Linwood mosque, said: He was shooting us until he finished the bullets. When he finished the bullets, he left the gun over there and he ran away. At the memorial, many offerings were accompanied by handwritten letters laden with sadness and disbelief. I am so sorry that you were not safe here. Our hearts are breaking for your loss, read one of the notes. People at a memorial outside Al Noor mosque pay tribute to the victims [Jorge Silva/Reuters] Ardern, the prime minister, arrived in the city on Saturday and met survivors and victims families to offer sympathy and support. 190316052155064 She said the victims came from across the Muslim world, with Turkey, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Malaysia among the countries rendering consular assistance. The members of Christchurchs Muslim community were advised to stay away from mosques while New Zealands security alert remained at the second-highest level on Saturday. Meanwhile, doctors in a Christchurch hospital worked around the clock to treat 39 people for gunshot wounds and other injuries sustained in the attacks. The wounded included a two-year-old boy and a four-year-old girl, who are in critical condition. Ardern said the victims came from across the Muslim world [The Office of the prime minister of New Zealand via Getty Images] As messages of condolences and condemnation kept pouring in from around the world, more details emerged about the victims of the attack. Pakistans foreign minister said at least six Pakistanis were killed, naming them as Sohail Shahid, Syed Jahandad Ali, Syed Areeb Ahmed, Mahboob Haroon, Naeem Rashid and Talha Naeem. Egypt and Jordan each said four of their nationals were killed. At least one Saudi citizen was also among the dead. In Bangladeshs capital, Dhaka, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam told reporters on Saturday that a total of 10 people of Bangladeshi origin were affected in the attack. Two of them died instantly and three others were missing, Alam said, adding that the five others were wounded. There are around 300 people of Bangladeshi origin living in Christchurch. They are all being asked to stay inside their home. The situation in the city is still very intense, he said. Brenton Tarrant, 28, appeared in a Christchurch District Court [Al Jazeera] Tarrant, the accused attacker, appeared unrepentant in a Christchurch District Court on Saturday, staring down media members with a smirk on his face. He was remanded without a plea until his next appearance in the South Island citys High Court on April 5. 190315152715528 He did not speak but flashed an upside-down OK signal, a symbol used by white power groups across the globe. Judge Paul Kellar allowed photos to be taken but ordered that the face of the former fitness instructor be blurred to preserve fair-trial rights. Two other suspects were taken into custody while police tried to determine what role, if any, they played in the cold-blooded attack that stunned New Zealand. One man, 18-year-old Daniel Burrough, has been charged with incitement. None of those arrested had a criminal history or was on any watchlist in New Zealand or Australia. Ardern said the attacker was in possession of a gun licence obtained in November 2017, and he started legally purchasing two semi-automatic weapons, reportedly AR-15s, two shotguns and a lever-action gun the following month. Ardern said some of the guns had been modified to make them deadlier. I can tell you one thing right now our gun laws will change, she said. Faisal Mahmud contributed reporting from Dhaka, Bangladesh. Indias envoy to New Zealand says nine people of Indian nationality or origin missing, while media reports say one dead. At least nine Indian nationals or people of Indian origin are missing since the mosque attacks in Christchurch, in which at least 49 people were killed, the Indian high commissioner in New Zealand has said. Sanjiv Kohli, the Indian diplomat, tweeted after the attack on Friday: As per updates received from multiple sources there are 9 missing persons of Indian nationality/origin. Official confirmation still awaited. Huge crime against humanity. Our prayers with their families. Indian officials have not said whether the nine were believed to be living in Christchurch. 190315152715528 Indian media reports, however, said at least one Indian was killed in the massacre that shook New Zealand. The Indian Express newspaper identified the victim as 34-year-old Mohammed Juned Kara from the western state of Gujarat. Kara is survived by his wife and three children, the daily said. The report added that two more Indians from Gujarat state Arif Vohra and his nephew Rameez Vohra were missing, while Hafiz Musa Patel, Imam of Lautoka mosque in Fiji Islands, was injured. Patel reportedly hails from Lunawara village in Gujarats Bharuch district and holds a Fijian passport. The newspaper said at least two more Indians, belonging to the southern city of Hyderabad Ahmed Jahangir Khursheed and Farhaj Ehsan were also missing. Speaking to the Indian Express, Ehsans father Mohammed Sayeeduddin said, Authorities at one hospital where injured are admitted told her [Ehsans wife] that he was not there. Police told her that he is not among the 49 fatalities. But police have said that at least 17 persons were missing. The Associated Press news agency on Saturday reported about an Indian couple in Christchurch looking for their son, Imran Khokhur, who has been missing since the massacre. Leaning on the shoulders of her friend, Imrans wife Akhtar cried as she held up her mobile phone with an image of her husband. I still dont know where he is, she said. Khokhur and husband Mehaboobbhai Khokhur had travelled from India to spend time with Imran, who dropped off his father at the Al Noor mosque on Friday and was looking for a parking space when the shooting began. They have not heard from him since. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said the countrys high commission in New Zealand is in touch with local authorities for more information. 190316011147796 Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a letter to New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Friday, saying that hatred and violence have no place in diverse and democratic societies. A 28-year-old white nationalist, identified as Brenton Harrison Tarrant, has been charged with killing the worshippers who had gathered for the weekly Friday prayers in a livestreamed attack. Another 48 people are reported to have suffered gunshot wounds, with some of them in critical condition. The majority of victims were migrants or refugees from countries such as Pakistan, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkey, Somalia and Afghanistan. Muslims account for just over one percent of New Zealands population, while there are about 200,000 Indians or people of Indian origin in the Pacific island nation. Protesters waved Catalan flags and carried banners reading slogans such as self-determination is a right, not a crime. A huge crowd of demonstrators has rallied in Spains capital Madrid in a major show of support for 12 Catalan politicians and activists standing trial for their role in organising a failed independence bid in 2017. Amid heavy police presence, nearly 400 buses on Saturday carried people from across the northeastern region of Catalonia to attend the gathering, the first major separatist march held in Madrid. In unusual scenes for the capital, the central Paseo del Prado boulevard was steeped in red, yellow and blue, the colours of the Estelada flag of the Catalan independence movement. 190206105939774 I think its a fair judgement to say youve never heard the voice of Catalan independence spoken so loudly and with so many numbers here in Madrid, Al Jazeeras David Chater, reporting from the demonstration, said. There are two phrases that have been prominent here: that democracy is about taking decision and that self-determination is a right, not a crime. Protest organisers put the turnout at 120,000, while police gave a figure of 18,000, according to Reuters news agency. Rebellion charges The defendants face decades in prison on rebellion and other charges for staging a banned referendum in October 2017 and declaring Catalan independence, although they took no action to implement that. They went on trial at Spains Supreme Court in mid-February. Many of their supporters believe the defendants are political prisoners. According to court filings, the defendants lawyers intend to claim that the Catalan separatists are being prosecuted for their Catalan nationalist political beliefs and the act of voting. Most of the politicians standing trial come from two political parties: the Catalan Republican Left (ERC) and the centrist Catalan European Democratic Party (PDeCAT). Leaders of the Catalan National Assembly (ANC) and Omnium Cultural (OC) two pro-independence civil society organisations also stand trial. The 2017 vote registered a majority of Catalans voting in favour of independence but many people had boycotted the plebiscite, which Spains Supreme Court had labelled illegal. Barroso was shot multiple times after an unknown assailant knocked on his front door. A Mexican journalist who often covered crime and drug gangs in northern Sonora state has died after being shot at point-blank range in his home near the US border, local authorities said. Santiago Barroso, 47, was shot multiple times after an unknown assailant knocked on his front door on Friday, the state prosecutors office said in a statement on Saturday. He was pronounced dead later at a hospital. Barroso worked as a multimedia journalist in the border town of San Luis Rio Colorado, about 32 kilometres southwest of Yuma, Arizona on the US side. 180724170416842 He was a host of a local radio show, director of the news website Red 563 and a contributor to weekly newspaper Contrasena. With great regret and impotence, we inform that the journalist Santiago Barroso, 47 years old, was murdered in San Luis Rio Colorado, in Sonora Mexico, Red 563 tweeted on Friday. Tonight, colleagues wait outside the hospital where he passed away .. after [an] armed man knocked on the door of his house and shot him [dead]. Con gran pesar e impotencia informamos q el #periodista Santiago Barroso, d 47 anos, fue asesinado en San Luis Rio Colorado, #Sonora #Mexico. Esta noche, colegas aguardan afuera dl hospital donde fallecio Vie/23:00 hrs. Hombre(s) armado toco a la puerta d su casa y le disparo. pic.twitter.com/LPr4gEBFTq Red Sonora de Periodistas (@SonoraRed) March 16, 2019 While it was unclear if the killing was linked to his work, Barrosos death marks the fourth journalist killed so far this year in Mexico. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has vowed to put an end to the murders and insecurity that are plaguing the country, but it is proving difficult. The population of the country is in a state of defencelessness, he recently said. This partially explains, although it doesnt justify, why [we have] only managed to contain the crime, but not significantly decrease it as we wish. Alfonso Durazo, Mexicos security minister, pledged federal government assistance in the investigation into Barrosos killing in a post on Twitter. In the past six years, during the presidency of Enrique Pena Nieto, 47 journalists were killed, according to free-speech advocacy group Article 19. Mexico is the second most dangerous country in the world to practise journalism after Syria, with more than 100 journalists killed since 2000, according to Reporters Without Borders. Iran has convicted Michael White on two charges, family lawyer says. He has been held since July last year. A US Navy veteran has been sentenced to 10 years in an Iranian prison for insulting the countrys leader and publishing private information publicly, according to his familys lawyer. Michael White was arrested in July last year while reportedly visiting an Iranian woman in the city of Mashad. Iran confirmed the arrest in January. On Saturday, lawyer Mark Zaid said White was sentenced to two years for insulting Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and 10 years for posting a picture. The two sentences handed out in separate hearings on March 6 and March 9 will apparently be served concurrently. Iranian authorities have not released details of the charges and official Iranian media has not reported on the case. 190109180602931 Whites family learned of the sentencing earlier this week from the US State Department, which received the information from Swiss diplomats. The Swiss represent US interests in Iran because the countries do not maintain diplomatic ties. White, a California native, served 13 years in the navy. The family and the State Department were still trying to determine whether the charges were politically motivated or the result of a criminal prosecution, Zaid said. Obviously, the concern is that the Iranians are using this as a tool against the United States, given the other individuals who are in custody, Zaid told the Associated Press news agency. The State Department has not commented on the sentences. White is the first US citizen to be arrested during Donald Trumps presidency. In office since January 2017, Trump has taken a hard-line approach to Iran, withdrawing from a landmark multinational deal to curb the countrys nuclear programme and reimposing sanctions. Three other US citizens are known to be imprisoned in Iran, including Iranian-American Siamak Namazi and his octogenarian father Baquer, a former UNICEF representative who served as the governor of Irans oil-rich Khuzestan. Both are serving 10-year sentences on espionage charges. Graduate student Xiyue Wang was sentenced to 10 years in prison for allegedly infiltrating the country while doing doctoral research on Irans Qajar dynasty. A fourth, former FBI agent Robert Levinson, has been missing in Iran since 2007. Iran says he is not in the country and there is no information about him. The last time Iran released any imprisoned Americans was when the international accord on Irans nuclear programme took effect in January 2016. Iran had released four Americans, including Jason Rezaian, the former correspondent for The Washington Post. In exchange, the US released several Iranians held on sanctions violations. Today, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree pardoning prisoners. The list of released persons was published on the website of the Azerbaijani leader. By his decree president pardoned 421 people, of whom 399 were released from the remainder of their prison term, 11 - from conditional imprisonment, and 12 - from fines. In addition, the sentences of three life imprisoned prisoners were reduced, Interfax-Yug reports. Violence in French capital as angry protests converge on famed Champs-Elysees avenue for 18th week straight. French yellow vest protesters have clashed with police in Paris, in the 18th straight weekend of demonstrations against President Emmanuel Macron and his governments policies. Large plumes of smoke on Saturday rose above the rioting on the landmark Champs-Elysees avenue in the French capital, as the demonstrators set fires and smashed up luxury stores. Police tried to contain the protesters with tear gas and water cannons. More than 100 arrests were made. One dangerous blaze targeted a bank on the ground floor of a seven-storey residential building. As firetrucks rushed over, a mother and her child were rescued as the fire threatened to engulf their floor, Pariss fire service told The Associated Press news agency. 190127223757928 Eleven people in the building, including two firefighters, sustained light injuries, as other residents were evacuated to safety. Simultaneous fires were also put out from two burning newspaper kiosks as groups of mostly black-clad demonstrators pelted the security forces with stones and erected barricades. Several protesters smiled as they posed for a photo in front of one the charred remains of the kiosks. Ultraviolent minority Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said up to 8,000 demonstrators were in Paris on Saturday, including 1,500 ultraviolent ones that are there to smash things up. The turnout was seen as a test for the yellow vest movement, which began in November over fuel tax hikes and quickly ballooned into an anti-government rebellion but has struggled lately to mobilise large numbers of protesters. The movement against Macrons perceived bias in favour of the elite, takes its name from the yellow safety vests French law requires all motorists to carry. Last week, around 28,000 people demonstrated nationwide, according to the authorities, a tenth of the numbers that turned out for the inaugural protest on November 17. The latest rally coincided with the end of a two-month public debate called by Macron to try take the heat out of the protests and give voters a forum to propose policy changes to address declining living standards, stagnant wages and high unemployment. Around half a million people turned out at townhall-style meetings held around the country, but many yellow vest protesters dismissed the consultation as a smokescreen. On social media, yellow vest leaders had hinted at the arrival of sympathisers from Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands and even Poland. Macron, were coming to get you at home, some of the protesters chanted, referring to the presidential palace situated near the Champs-Elysees. A government critic is poised to become Slovakias first female head of state in the contest between 13 candidates. Polls have opened in Slovakias presidential elections that a vocal government critic is poised to win after an investigative journalists murder dealt a blow to the ruling party. In Saturdays polling, 13 candidates are vying for the job, including Supreme Court judge Stefan Harabin, far-right MP Marian Kotleba and ethnic Hungarian politician Bela Bugar. Frontrunner Zuzana Caputova, the environmental lawyer, has a double-digit lead over the closest rival, Maros Sefcovic, European Commission vice president backed by the ruling centre-left Direction Social Democracy (Smer-SD) party. Caputova, 45, was among tens of thousands of protesters who took to the streets of the eurozone country of 5.4 million last year after journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancee Martina Kusnirova were shot dead at his home near the capital Bratislava in February 2018. Kuciak had been working on a story about links between the Slovak government and the Italian Mafia. Jan Kuciak and his fiancee were shot dead in 2018 [File: David W Cerny/Reuters] Caputova has vowed to restore public trust in the state, running on a slogan Let us stand up to evil. She may have gotten a last-minute boost on Thursday after prosecutors charged multimillionaire businessman Marian Kocner, who is believed to have ties to Smer-SD, with ordering the murder of the journalist. Yet voters could also interpret the news as a sign the system works and those currently in power are doing a fine job. Why are journalists increasingly targeted? If Caputova wins, she will be Slovakias first female head of state. She has been endorsed by incumbent President Andrej Kiska. Her win could render Smer-SD more vulnerable in the run-up to the next parliamentary election in 2020. Under Smer-SD, which has held the majority in parliament since 2006, Slovakia joined the eurozone and its growing economy is now the worlds largest per capita car producer. But corruption remains a problem and this has galvanised anti-establishment voters. Slovakia ranks 57th out of 180 countries in Transparency Internationals Corruption Perception Index, behind neighbours Poland and the Czech Republic but ahead of Hungary. Runoff vote In the event that no candidate receives an absolute majority, a runoff will take place on March 30 between the two candidates with the most votes. More than four million voters are eligible to vote. Polling stations opened at 7am (06:00 GMT) and are scheduled to close at 10pm (21:00 GMT). The results are expected on Sunday. Though the office is largely ceremonial, the president ratifies international treaties, appoints top judges and is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces. The head of state can also veto laws passed by parliament. The killing of at least 49 Muslim worshippers at two mosques on Friday in New Zealand was the latest in a series of attacks against Muslims in western countries and by far the worst. Researchers have documented a surge in anti-Muslim attacks in the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States, among other countries, noting an all-time high in recent years. Here are some of the most deadly: US August 2016: A New York imam and his associate are shot and killed on a busy street near their mosque in Queens. Police say it was a hate crime. The attacker is arrested and charged with murder. Switzerland December 2016: A 30-year-old man enters a mosque in central Zurich and starts firing at a handful of men who were drinking tea after evening prayer. Three are wounded. Another victim was killed by the same perpetrator earlier in the day. The suspect escapes but is found dead near a river close to the mosque. Canada January 2017: Alexandre Bissonnette, 27, kills six Muslim worshippers and injures scores of others in an attack at a Quebec City mosque during evening prayers. 190208191042253 The fatalities include one victim who was killed as he attempted to tackle the gunman. Nineteen others are injured in the shooting. Bissonnette is sentenced to life imprisonment. US May 2017: Two men are stabbed to death after they try to intervene when a man starts yelling racial slurs at two women of Muslim appearance on a train in the north-western US state of Oregon. The attacker is identified as 35-year-old Jeremy Joseph Christian. A third man is seriously injured. UK June 2017: A 48-year-old man in London drives a van into a group of worshippers who had just come out of a mosque after a late-night prayer, killing a 51-year-old man and injuring nine others. The driver, 48-year-old Darren Osborne, allegedly shouted I want to kill all Muslims I did my bit after the attack. Osborne is sentenced to 43 years in jail on terrorism-related charges. Spain August 2017: The number of crimes directed towards Muslims in Spain increases following deadly attacks in Barcelona and Cambrils as mosques in the cities of Granada, Fuenlabrada, Logrono and Seville are desecrated and firebombed. Three Moroccans are brutally assaulted in Navarre, while a Muslim woman is injured from in attack in front of a Madrid metro. New Zealand March 2019: Twenty eight-year-old Australian Brenton Tarrant allegedly kills 49 people at two mosques in Christchurch. He is arrested and is facing charges. Ethiopians continue to take pride in national carrier due to swift response after crash, tour operators say. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia The hotel lobbies in Addis Ababa are bustling with Ethiopian Airlines travellers in transit, almost a week after Sundays crash that left 157 people of more than 30 nationalities dead. The accident appears not to have put off travellers from choosing to fly with the continents largest airline, as measured by profit and revenue. Three days after the deadly disaster, Veronica Mwangi flew with the airline from the Kenyan capital, Nairobi to Addis Ababa to attend a forum. 190311163746261 People close to me were very concerned. They were anxious, Mwangi, a lawyer, told Al Jazeera. There is always fear and worry as to what to expect following such [a] horrific accident. But the reaction by Ethiopian Airlines and the safety measures they put in place reassured me, she added. A frequent traveller, Mwangi has been using the airline for the past four years. Im a loyal Ethiopian Airlines traveller. What happened last week has not affected my view of the airline. Its reputation is well known across the world. Their safety and security is very good, as records show. And that is why I will not stop flying with them, Mwangi said. Most travellers Al Jazeera spoke to said the action the airline took soon after flight ET 302 came down, about 50km outside Addis Ababa six minutes after take-off, has reassured them. I was very happy with the move by Ethiopian Airlines to ground the specific aircraft model, Boeing 737 MAX 8, Mwangi said. Hours after the accident, the airline grounded four aircraft of the same model as a safety precaution. In Addis Ababas Signal area, on the upper floor of a four-storey office block, Zablon Beyene, a tour operator of more than 10 years, was busy responding to requests from customers. When he first saw the news of the crash on television he was worried about the effect it may have on his business. Surprisingly we have seen more interest and more bookings since last Sunday. We have not seen a single cancellation. Everyone is talking about Ethiopia and that has led to many people wanting to visit our country, Zablon, owner of Zab Tours Ethiopia, said. 190312134422968 Many of the new bookings are made by fellow Africans, according to Zablon. What happened is horrific but it seems to have brought people, especially Africans, closer. There is a strong solidarity. This is an African airline and Africans are very proud of it, Zablon, who employs 10 people, adds. The state-owned carrier owns stakes in other African airlines. Last year, Ethiopian Airlines acquired a 45 percent stake in Zambia Airways. It also operates and manages Malawi Airlines after signing an agreement in 2013. The carrier, which was established in 1945 as a joint venture with now-defunct US carrier Trans World Airlines (TWA), is also in the process of creating a new airline in Mozambique that it will fully own. Ethiopian Airlines is also holding talks with Chad, neighbouring Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea and Guinea to set up carriers through joint ventures. According to economists, the airline will continue to be the leader on the continent despite the fatal crash. It is the airline of the African continent. They control the skies and fly to more destinations than anybody else. I dont think their position is under threat, Aly Khan Satchu, a Nairobi-based economist told Al Jazeera. They are an efficient organisation and have kind of a military approach to running an airline which is obviously the right way to go, Satchu added. Weak competitors While its main competitors, Kenya Airways and South Africa Airlines, make losses every year, Ethiopian Airways posts profits year on year. After years of aggressive expansion, it also travels to more destinations compared with all its competitors. From its hub in Addis Ababa, the carrier serves 107 international destinations. Mwangi, who is travelling back to her home country of Kenya on Thursday, said the decision to continue flying with the airline was simple, and said she wanted others to do the same. I would encourage people to use Ethiopian Airlines. They have the best service on the continent and go almost everywhere. They are efficient, too, she said. Bulgaria says it is also investigating after discovering gunman made short visits to several countries in the Balkans. Ankara has opened an inquiry after it emerged that the man alleged to be the New Zealand mosque attacker visited Turkey twice, according to an official. A far-right supporter armed with semiautomatic weapons rampaged through two mosques in the city of Christchurch during afternoon prayers on Friday, killing at least 49 Muslim worshippers and wounding dozens others. A visitor believed to be a 28-year-old Australian who has been arrested and charged with murder in New Zealand had visited Turkey and stayed for a long period in the country, the Turkish official said without giving dates. We think that the suspect could have been to other countries (from Turkey) in Europe, Asia and Africa. We are investigating the suspects movements and contacts in the countries, added the official, speaking on condition of anonymity. Turkish media reported that a manifesto published online allegedly by the attacker contained specific references to Turkey and ridding the famed Hagia Sophia in Istanbul of its minarets. Now a museum, the building was once a church before being turned into a mosque during the Ottoman empire. Sofia earlier said it was investigating after discovering that the gunman might have visited Bulgaria in November 2018. A man believed to be him spent a week in the country supposedly to visit historical sites and study the history of the Balkan country, Sotir Tsatsarov, Bulgarias chief prosecutor, said. He said the inquiry would establish if this was correct or if he had other objectives. The same man also made a short visit to the Balkans in December 2016, travelling by bus across Serbia, Croatia, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Growing hostility Turkeys President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday condemned the deadly attack, saying it illustrated the growing hostility towards Islam idly watched by the world. With this attack, hostility towards Islam, that the world has been idly watching and even encouraging for some time, has gone beyond individual harassment to reach the level of mass killing, Erdogan said at the funeral of a former Turkish minister. It is clear that the understanding represented by the killer that also targets our country, our people and myself, has started to take over Western societies like a cancer, Erdogan said. The Turkish leader, who often criticises Islamophobic attitudes, called for the West to act to prevent similar attacks. If measures are not taken right away, news of other disasters will follow this one I am calling on the world, in particular the West, to take quick measures, he said. After Friday prayers, dozens of people gathered outside Istanbuls Fatih Mosque one of the citys main mosques chanting condemnation of the attack and waving signs saying Stop global terrorism and Crusader Savagery in New Zealand. Erdogan had earlier condemned the attack on Twitter: May Allah have mercy on the victims and grant a speedy recovery to the wounded. Speaking in Brussels, Turkeys Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu also condemned the killings, blaming irresponsible politicians who incite hatred against Muslims and propagate xenophobia. There are lessons that everybody needs to learn from this attack, especially in the EU, in the members of the EU, he said after meeting with European Union officials. Hate language used against the Muslims should not be considered as a part of freedom of expression. Iranian musician Mehdi Rajabian brings together artists from the region to promote resilience, hope and empathy. Nearly 100 musicians from across the Middle East have collaborated for an album put together by Iranian musician Mehdi Rajabian to promote peace in the embattled region. The album, titled Middle Eastern, consists of songs played by artists from Iran, Turkey, Yemen, Palestine, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Jordan, Oman, Egypt and Bahrain along with some musicians from Azerbaijan and Tajikistan. We have tried to use local instruments in the album because our priority was to highlight the native tunes of the Middle East, Rajabian, 29, told Al Jazeera. For my research on Middle East music, I had been in touch with musicians from all over the region. I discussed the idea of an album with many of them and they showed a lot of interest. 190127190737347 Some musicians who participated in the project came from places ravaged by years of wars and conflict, mainly Palestine, Yemen and Syria. Most songs in the album, released on Friday by the Sony Music company, have been written by the artists themselves and produced by Rajabian. Rajabian said one of the tracks was recorded while the air attacks were on. He refused to speak further about the details of the track, the artist involved or the location where it was recorded. A musician, he added, took part in the project while grappling with extreme poverty while another tune was recorded on a boat by a fleeing refugee. Using songs that are recorded in such circumstances, the album aims to send a message of peace, he said. Rajabian said a coherent sadness stretches through the songs, even though the musicians did not have any interaction with each other. Famous photographer Reza Deghatis photo was used for the cover of the album [Al Jazeera] This shows that there is a pain that people living in the Middle East share. In my opinion, the best way to speak about this collective pain is through the language of music. The album, which has 11 tracks, begins with a song from Turkey and ends with a piece written by the Iranian artist himself. It ends in complete hopelessness, he said. In Iran, Rajabian is barred from publishing any music or leaving the country following charges related to security against him after he was detained for three months in 2013. He was sent back to prison in 2016 on a six-year sentence and fined 200 million rials ($4,700) for insulting Islam, spreading propaganda against the regime and publishing unauthorised music on Barg Music, an independent online label that he had created. He was released a year later. This album is full of nos and whys, he said. 190208140605552 For us, an artists independence is important as much as the philosophy behind a piece of art is. We say no to war, persecution, human rights violations and poverty. Rajabian uses the music as a language to empower the essence of humanity, said Reza Deghati, the 66-year-old award-winning Iranian photojournalist, whose photo was used for the cover of the Middle Eastern. Deghati said the cover photo shows a hole through a damaged ceiling in a palace that belonged to former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein in the Iraqi-Kurdistan region. During his time, Saddam never even lived in those palaces, but they were a symbol of his presence. People who travelled around the palace did not even have the right to take a look at them, Deghati told Al Jazeera. Hussein was accused of running a genocidal campaign against the Kurds in the 1980s, leaving tens of thousands of people dead. Now all those palaces are gone, looted and ruined, Deghati said, while they are mainly guarded by Kurdish Peshmerga. The real irony of history. Looking back to the millennium-long history of suffering, we find true artists at all times who used art to promote resilience, hope and empathy. Achieving universal peace should be the main goal of a true artist, he said. To reach a better future, art is the solution. Environmental rallies inspired by Greta Thunberg put pressure on US political leaders to embrace the Green New Deal. New York City Before taking the microphone to address a climate rally at Columbia University on an unseasonably warm Friday, the only US presidential contender whose campaign is singularly focused on the climate crisis made some pithy observations. This is the epicentre of change right here, said Washington Governor Jay Inslee, looking at the high school and college students holding bright placards and basking in the March sunshine. The message is really resonating now, he said. People are getting it. Then, in his speech to the crowd, Inslee cited a one-on-one conversation from several minutes prior with a student activist. Studying history is great, said the climate-change candidate. But making history is even better. In New York City, the March 15 climate rallies took place in front of the United Nations, at City Hall, several university campuses, and then culminated in a march from Columbus Circle to the Museum of Natural History. The day of global action was the first time that significant numbers of American protesters joined their worldwide counterparts, with events in a dizzyingly long list of international locations. From Nauru and New Delhi to Munich and Mexico City, students inspired by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg walked out of school and took to the streets. About 17 people were arrested by the New York Police Department for disorderly conduct and blocking traffic [Ben Piven/Al Jazeera] Alexandria Villasenor, a 13-year-old cofounder of Youth Climate Strike US, said at a rally outside the UN: Climate striking has arrived in America. There are those Americans who deny the truth. We declare that the era of denialism is over. Otto Held, 15, was on hand to help organise the young people. He described government leaders as disrespectful to my future, my childrens future, and added previous generations havent had to deal with this. Demand radical change One of the groups participating in the days events, Extinction Rebellion, took a more aggressive stance to ensuring environmental progress by promoting non-violent direct action and civil disobedience. Karlos Edmonds was in attendance at the Inslee speech, waiting in the wings until an opportunity to make waves. We have to be there to enforce change, said Edmonds. Shutting down streets and stopping machines. Later in the day, he was one of about 17 people arrested by the New York Police Department for disorderly conduct and blocking traffic, after a crowd of several thousand rallied on the western edge of Central Park. Day of global action was the first time significant numbers of American protesters joined their worldwide counterparts [Ben Piven/Al Jazeera] Other demonstrators took a more practical approach to the Green New Deal resolution proposed by Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Ed Markey. No deal is perfect, said Jennifer Ojilere, 17, a high school senior participating in her first climate march. But this is a good place to start. And legislators in the nations capital also got to see their fair share of climate strikers. Nadia Nazar, a 16-year-old student from the suburbs of Baltimore, Maryland, is a cofounder of Zero Hour, a youth-led environmental justice movement. She joined the main event in Washington next to the Capitol building, punctuated by an 11-minute moment of silence to signify the 11 years left until even more disastrous effects of a warming climate. I dont think 100 percent is unrealistic, Nazar said, referring to the goal of moving entirely to renewable energy sources by 2030. We need to demand radical change right now, or else people wont pay attention. However, the marine biologists daughter who testified in February to the House Natural Resources Committee restated that goal in a more modest way: To get a good portion of the fossil-fuel industry transitioned by then. We want to include everyone, not leave anyone behind, Nazar said. The other day I was talking to a former coal worker. People just want jobs to support their families, with steady incomes. Renewable jobs would be great for them, with better job security. Demonstrators highlighted the Green New Deal resolution proposed by Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Ed Markey [Ben Piven/Al Jazeera] Nothing is guaranteed Ryan Madden, 24, is an organiser with the Long Island Progressive Coalition who also volunteers with the Sunrise Movement. He has served as a youth delegate to COP climate summits. I saw 30 people there negotiating for our [American] interests, but the Maldives had one delegate at the conference, said Madden. That solidified my work. As a person of privilege in the Global North, in the country most responsible for the [climate] crisis, Madden said, his goal for a worldwide reparations programme is to go above and beyond in the reduction of carbon emissions. Madden said the Sunrise Movement is emboldened by having a fossil-fuel apologist in the White House and will continue its 15-state tour, largely focused on strategically making [climate] a wedge issue in the next Democratic primary. But he added, Nothing is guaranteed, so 2020 could be horrible. We dont really get to dictate the laws of physics here, said Madden. The climate will continue to change in ways that we dont have full control over. Whoever is in office, we need to reorient the logic of our economy. When gunman advanced on Linwood mosque in Christchurch, a man led him in a cat-and-mouse chase before scaring him off. When Brenton Tarrant advanced towards the Linwood mosque in New Zealands Christchurch, killing those in his path, Abdul Aziz did not hide. Instead, he picked up the first thing he could find, a credit card machine, and ran outside screaming Come here! Aziz, 48, is being hailed as a hero for preventing more deaths during Friday prayers after leading the armed man in a cat-and-mouse chase before scaring him into speeding away in his car. But Aziz, whose four sons and dozens of others remained in the mosque while he faced off with the armed man, said he thinks it is what anyone would have done. The gunman killed 49 people in the attack on two mosques in the deadliest mass shooting in New Zealands modern history. Tarrant is believed to have killed 41 people at the Al Noor mosque before driving about 5km across town and attacking the Linwood mosque, where he killed seven more people. One more person died later in hospital. Fridays mass shooting is the deadliest in New Zealands modern history [Peter Adones/Anadolu] Tarrant, the 28-year-old white supremacist, has been charged with one count of murder in the killings and a judge said Saturday that it was reasonable to assume more charges would follow. Latef Alabi, the Linwood mosques acting imam, said the death toll would have been far higher at the Linwood mosque if it was not for Aziz. Alabi said he heard a voice outside the mosque and stopped the prayer he was leading and peeked out the window. He saw a guy in black military-style gear and a helmet holding a large gun and assumed it was a police officer. Then he saw two bodies and heard the gunman yelling obscenities. I realised this is something else. This is a killer, he said. He yelled at the congregation of more than 80 to get down. They hesitated. A shot rang out, a window shattered and a body fell, and people began to realise it was for real. Then this brother came over. He went after him, and he managed to overpower him, and thats how we were saved, Alabi said, referring to Aziz. Otherwise, if he managed to come into the mosque, then we would all probably be gone. Aziz said as he ran outside screaming, he was hoping to distract the attacker. He said the gunman ran back to his car to get another gun, and Aziz hurled the credit card machine at him. He said he could hear his two youngest sons, aged 11 and five, urging him to come back inside. The gunman returned, firing. Aziz said he ran, weaving through cars parked in the driveway, which prevented Tarrant from getting a clean shot. Then Aziz spotted a gun the gunman had abandoned and picked it up, pointed it and squeezed the trigger. It was empty. He said Tarrant ran back to the car for a second time, likely to grab yet another weapon. He gets into his car and I just got the gun and threw it on his window like an arrow and blasted his window, Aziz said. The windshield shattered: Thats why he got scared. Online videos indicate police officers managed to force the car from the road [Peter Adones/Anadolu] Aziz said the gunman was cursing at him, yelling that he was going to kill them all. But he drove away and Aziz said he chased the car down the street to a red light before it made a U-turn and sped away. Online videos indicate police officers managed to force the car from the road and drag out the suspect soon after. Originally from Afghanistans capital Kabul, Aziz said he left as a refugee when he was a boy and lived for more than 25 years in Australia before moving to New Zealand a couple of years ago. Ive been to a lot of countries and this is one of the beautiful ones, he said. And, he always thought, a peaceful one as well. Aziz said he did not feel fear or much of anything when facing the gunman. It was like he was on autopilot. Here are the stories of the Muslim worshippers confirmed dead in the mass shootings at two mosques in Christchurch. They were teachers, engineers and accountants. Some were born in New Zealand, while others had migrated to the Pacific Island decades ago, fleeing conflict or seeking a better life. Many died while trying to protect others, according to family members. Officials in New Zealand have started releasing some of the names of the 50 Muslim worshippers who were shot dead by an attacker on Friday at two mosques in Christchurch, while diplomats from around the world have identified 29 of them. Some of those named were New Zealand natives, while others hailed from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, India and Egypt. Heres what we know so far about the victims of the gun assault, which authorities described as a well-planned terrorist attack. 190318125443038 Mucaad Ibrahim, 3 At three years old, Mucaad Ibrahim was the youngest victim of the mosque shootings. He was born in New Zealand to Somali parents. The toddler was separated from his father, Adnan Ibrahim. and brother, Abdi, in the chaos that ensued following the attack, reported the Associated Press news agency. He was a Muslim-born Kiwi who was full of energy, love and happiness, said his family in a statement. He is remembered in our community as a young boy who emanated nothing but the representation of Gods love and peace. Mucaad Ibrahim was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. HE HAS A NAME: 3-year-old Mucaad Ibrahim was murdered at the Al Noor Mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand on Friday, March 15. He was the youngest victim of the terrorist attack that killed 51 people and injured more than 50 others. pic.twitter.com/Jfuh3fP7zg Michael Skolnik (@MichaelSkolnik) March 17, 2019 Naeem Rashid, 51 Naeem Rashid, originally from Abbottabad in Pakistan, was badly wounded at the Al Noor mosque after he tried overpowering the shooter, the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis said in a series of Twitter posts. He was rushed to the hospital, but lost his life due to indiscriminate firing, the ministry added. Video footage of the shooting showed Rashid trying to stop the gunman, according to family members. Rashids oldest son, Talha Naeem, was also killed in the attack while trying to protect others, they said. "My husband and my son were brave people." Naeem Rashid and his son were both killed during the New Zealand mosque mass shootings. Al Jazeera spoke to their family. pic.twitter.com/L0jc4pbG3T Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) March 19, 2019 Imran Khan, Pakistans prime minister, said on Sunday that Pakistan was proud of Rashid and his courage will be recognised with a national award. The 51-year-old teacher had worked in banking in Pakistan before he migrated to New Zealand in 2009, his wife, Ambreen Naeem told Al Jazeera. He is survived by Ambreen and two sons. My husband and son have made me really proud, Ambreen told Al Jazeera. Because they died saving others Both of them are beautiful souls. 190317073949724 Rashids sister-in-law, Naeema Khan, said Naeem will be a hero forever because he was the man that took on the killer. Saleem Khan, Rashids maternal uncle, said his nephew was a bold and brave man. Without caring for his life, he saved people, Khan told AP in Abbottabad. Many people are claiming they were saved by Naeem. Rashid and his son were laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 24 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday 22 March. Talha Naeem, 21 Pakistans foreign ministry confirmed Rashids son, 21-year-old Talha Naeem, was also killed in the attack. Khurshid Alam, Rashids brother, told Anadolu news agency that his nephew had recently completed an engineering degree in New Zealand. I spoke to my brother last week and he was planning to come to Pakistan to arrange his sons marriage ceremony. But now we lost both of them, Alam said. A Pakistani man who tried to stop the gunman who opened fire in a mosque packed with worshippers is being remembered as a hero. Naeem Rashid, 50, originally from Abbottabad, was in the mosque with his 21-year-old son, Talha Naeem (presumably dead), for Friday prayers. pic.twitter.com/QbyJGSzmjB Dr. Baz Mian (@Bazpharmer) March 16, 2019 Describing Talhas death, Naeema Khan, his aunt, told Al Jazeera: When Talha got shot, he fell on another boy and whispered to him to stay still. When the gunman left, the boy got up, alive, from under him. Khan said Talha was a role model for the younger generation. Talhas 19-year-old brother, Abdullah Naeem, said: He [Talha] loved taking risks and I was always very scared, but because of him I realised that sometimes you should take risks in life to achieve something more. Talha and his father were laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 24 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Haji Daoud Nabi, 71 Afghanistans embassy in Canberra, the Australian capital, confirmed Haji Daoud Nabis death in a Facebook post on Saturday. The 71-year-old grandfather was among the first victims to be identified. Born in Afghanistan, Nabi had fled the country in 1979 to escape the Soviet invasion, his son, Omar Nabi, told Al Jazeera. 190316065121065 In Christchurch, he ran a group called the Afghan Association to help refugees start new lives. Nabi, an engineer, is survived by four sons, one daughter and nine grandchildren who he loved immensely, Omar said over the telephone. Earlier in the day, Nabis 43-year-old son told reporters in Christchurch that his father was killed after he jumped in the firing line to save somebody elses life. Yama Nabi, Omars brother, told reporters that his father was a very humble man who has helped a lot of people. A friend repeatedly told him, Your father saved my life, Yama Nabi said. Omar Nabi speaks to the media about losing his father, Haji Daoud Nabi, in the mosque attacks, at the District Court in Christchurch [Edgar Su/Reuters] Muhammad Abdus Samad, 66 Originally from Madhur Hailla village in Bangladeshs Kurigram district, Abdus Samad was among two people of Bangladeshi origin who died in the Christchurch attacks, according to Shahriar Alam, the countrys state minister for foreign affairs. Born on February 23, 1953, Samad worked as a lecturer in Bangladeshs Agricultural Development Corporation. He retired in December 2012 and moved to New Zealand with his wife and two sons the following year, according to a family member. After obtaining citizenship in New Zealand, Samad worked as a visiting professor at the Lincoln University in Christchurch. His brother, Habibur Rahman, told Al Jazeera that Samad used to lead prayers at Al Noor mosque. He was a very pious person, Rahman said from Kurigram. Samad was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Husna Ahmed, 45 Husna Ahmed, originally from northeastern Sylhet district in northeastern Bangladesh, was killed while trying to shield her wheelchair-bound husband, according to her nephew, Mahfuj Chowdhury. Citing witnesses, Chowdhury told Al Jazeera: Like other Fridays, [Ahmed] took her husband to the mosque and left him in the mens section which is separate from the womens section. Immediately after hearing the sounds of shooting, she rushed towards the mens section and tried to save her husband. Then she was hit by a bullet. Speaking from Dhaka, Chowdhury said Ahmeds sister-in-law, Hima survived the attack. Ahmed,45, is survived by her husband Farid Ahmed and daughter Shipa Ahmed. She had moved to New Zealand in 1994. She was the second person of Bangladeshi origin confirmed dead in the Christchurch mosque shootings, according to Bangladeshi officials. She was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Husne Ara Parvin, 42 Parvin was shot when she tried to save her wheelchair-bound husband Farid Uddin, according to a relative.#ChristchurchMosqueMassacre pic.twitter.com/Jx0STR80Kv Mona Eltahawy (@monaeltahawy) March 16, 2019 Khalid Mustafa, 44 Syrian refugee Khalid Mustafa was among the first five victims to be buried. The 44-year-old had moved to New Zealand with his family in 2018, after spending five years as refugees in Jordan, his wife told New Zealand radio. Salwa Mustafa said he was a horse farrier and trainer in Syria. When we were asking about New Zealand they said its most the safest country in the world, the most wonderful country you can go but it wasnt, she told the radio. His son, Hamza was killed in the attack and was also buried on March 20. Another son, 13-year-old Zaed, was wounded in the arm and the leg during the attack. CHRISTCHURCH SHOOTING: Khalid Mustafa and his 15yo son Hamza moved to Christchurch 10 months ago, fleeing war torn Syria. They were killed on Friday, in a country they thought would be safe. The pair were the first to be buried. #7news pic.twitter.com/RYx8XEE6sK Teegan Dolling (@tdolling) March 20, 2019 Funerals are being held in New Zealand five days after a white supremacist killed 50 people at two mosques. Khalid Mustafa, 44, and his son Hamza Mustafa, 15, fled the war in Syria and moved to New Zealand last year. They were the first two victims buried today. pic.twitter.com/WzSpnh8BPs AJ+ (@ajplus) March 20, 2019 Hamza Mustafa, 16 Salwa told Radio New Zealand Hamza was a talented horse rider and had celebrated his 16th birthday two days before the shooting. He was on the phone with her at the time of the assault. He said, Mom, theres someone in the mosque shooting us, she told Radio New Zealand. They were running, and after that I hear shooting, and he screamed very loud. She said she waited on the line for 22 minutes until someone took the phone and told her Hamza was dead. During the funeral on March 20, Hamzas high school principal described the student as compassionate and hardworking, and said he aspired to be a veterinarian, said the AP. Junaid Ismail, 36 Junaid Ismail was among the five people confirmed dead by authorities in New Zealand. The 36-year-old, born in New Zealand to Indian parents, is survived by his wife and three young children, aged between five and three years old, according to the Herald. He ran a dairy shop in Christchurch along with his twin brother, Zahid Ismail, who survived the shooting. Mohsen Al Harbi, 63 Mohsen Al Harbi, originally from Saudi Arabia, had lived in New Zealand for 25 years, according to Stuff. He worked in water desalination. His wife, Manal, had a heart attack while searching for him in the wake of the attack, and was hospitalised. New Zealand police said he was killed at the Al Noor mosque, where his family said he sometimes gave sermons after the noon prayers on Friday. Areeb Ahmed, 26 Areeb Ahmed, a 26-year-old chartered accountant, had recently moved from Karachi, Pakistan, for a job in New Zealand to help support his family, AP said. Pakistans Ministry of Foreign Affairs said he was among the nine Pakistanis confirmed to have been killed in Christchurch. His body is expected to arrive in Karachi in the coming days, according to AP. One of Ahmeds uncles, Muhammad Muzaffar Khan, described him as deeply religious, praying five times a day. He had gone to New Zealand recently where he got his job. He had only started his career, but the enemies took his life, Khan told AP. A relative shows the picture of Areeb Ahmed on his mobile phone outside his home in Karachi, Pakistan [Fareed Khan/AP] In a Facebook post, PwC New Zealand, Ahmeds employer, said the accountant was a loved and respected member of staff. His smile, warmth, dedication, respect and humour will be deeply missed, the company said. Lilik Abdul Hamid, 58 Indonesias foreign ministry said its citizen, Lilik Abdul Hamid, was among the dozens who died in the mosque shootings. Air New Zealand, the countrys national carrier, said Hamid was an aircraft maintenance engineer with the company and had been a valued part of our engineering team in Christchurch for 16 years. Christopher Luxon, the airlines chief executive officer, added: His loss will be deeply felt by the team. Hamid is survived by his wife Nina, and two children, Zhania and Gerin. His daughter, Zhania, told Radio New Zealand that her father had a passion for engines. I never thought about fixing anything because dad always did it. His passion has always been with all things engines, not just aircraft. Stuff news website said Hamid was 58 years old. 'One of the boys': Air NZ mourns engineer Lilik Abdul Hamid killed in Christchurch terror attacks https://t.co/2nSKgok9ht pic.twitter.com/hLsVM1SXdZ Newshub (@NewshubNZ) March 17, 2019 Muhammad Ata Elayyan, 33 Muhammad Ata Elayyan was the goalkeeper for New Zealands national mens futsal team. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates said the 33-year-old was among six people of Palestinian origin who were killed in the Christchurch attacks. Born in Kuwait, Elayyan recently became a father and was a popular member of the Christchurch tech industry, according to the New Zealand Herald. He cofounded the tech company, LWA Solutions, and was its CEO. Kyle Wisnewski, Elayyans friend, paid tribute in a post on Twitter. My heart is broken, a role model to myself and so many in the futsal community, he wrote, adding: You wont ever meet a more down to earth, humbling person. Josh Margett, New Zealands futsal development manager, offered condolences to Elayyans family on Twitter. We are deeply sorry for your loss, he wrote. Muhammad Ata Elayyan was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. My Heart is broken, a role model to myself and so many in the futsal community, a loving KIWI father, husband, friend and futsal player. You wont ever meet a more down to earth, humbling person. May you Rest In Peace my friend @attaelayyan #ChristchurchTerrorAttack pic.twitter.com/r631Ly0iPz Kyle Wisnewski (@wiswaskins) March 16, 2019 QUOTE | @NZ_Football Futsal Development Manager @margetts_josh: To Attas family, we are deeply sorry for your loss. We cant imagine what you are going through, but please know we love you and we are here for you during this incredibly difficult time. #RIPAtta @MainlandFooty pic.twitter.com/tCcileWiUK New Zealand Football (@NZ_Football) March 17, 2019 QUOTE: @MainlandFooty CEO Julian Bowden on @attaelayyan. "Atta was a popular member of the Canterbury United family. We are in a state of shock with this news. On behalf of everyone at Mainland Football, we reiterate what many have said that this is not our New Zealand. #RIPAtta pic.twitter.com/MIWNIIR8VN New Zealand Football (@NZ_Football) March 17, 2019 He leaves behind his wife Farah and young daughter Aya. Jahandad Ali, 34 Pakistans foreign ministry said Jahandad Ali from Lahore was among the nine Pakistanis killed in the mosque shootings. The 34-year-old software engineer worked for the tech company Intergen. Offering condolences to Alis wife, Amna, and his three children, the companys CEO Simon Bright said Ali was a highly respected and beloved colleague. Haroon Mahmood, 40 Haroon Mahmood, from Pakistans capital, Islamabad, was also killed in the gun assaults, according to the Pakistani foreign ministry. He had worked in banking in Pakistan before moving to New Zealand, according to the Herald. He was the assistant academic director of Canterbury College in Christchurch, and is survived by his wife and two children aged 13 and 11, the website reported. Haroon Mahmood was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Amjad Hamid, 57 Amjad Hamid, confirmed dead in the Christchurch attacks by Palestines Ministry of Foreign Affairs, had migrated to New Zealand 23 years ago to find a better future, a family member told the New Zealand Herald. His wife, Hanan, described the heart doctor as a very kind man. We were hoping to find a better future for us, she said. Its hard to talk about him. Hamids 20-year-old son Mohammed Hamid told the Herald he wanted to say only one thing: I just really loved my dad. The Brisbane Times said Hamid was well liked for his kindness, compassion and sense of humour and would often take fresh baklava to his colleagues at the Hawera Hospital. He was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Osama Adnan Abukwaik, 37 The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Osama Adnan Abukwaik, who was of Palestinian origin, had died in the mosque attacks. The New Zealand Herald said the 37-year-old father of three had previously lived in Egypt and was in the process of applying for citizenship in the country when he was killed. The Brisbane Times said Abukwaik was from the Gaza Strip. He was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Christchurch mosque shootings: Honouring the dead Osama Abu Kwaik https://t.co/o7Dx7PP1lQ nzherald (@nzherald) March 18, 2019 190316121434157 Muhammad Suhail Shahid, 36 Muhammad Suhail Shahid died in the mosque attacks in New Zealand, said Pakistans foreign ministry. His elder brother, Mohammad Nabeel Shahid, told the AP: He left Pakistan in 2017 and he has two daughters, the eldest is Wajeha and the youngest Naira, both were very close to their father. Muhammad Suhail Shahid was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Abdelfattah Qassem, 60 The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Abdelfattah Qassem, of Palestinian origin, was killed in the shootings. The New Zealand Herald said the 60-year-old was the former secretary of the Muslim Association in Christchurch. His friend, Shihadeh Nasasrah, told the AP Qassem was from the town of Arabeh in the West Bank. The IT specialist had worked in Kuwait for much of his life Stuff reported, and moved to New Zealand in the early 1990s after the first Gulf War. He is survived by his wife and three daughters, one of whom was due to give birth to his first grandchild next month, Stuff said. Mustafa Al-Asaad, a relative, described Qassem as an elder for the community, known for helping newcomers to Christchurch. He was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Ali Mahd Abdullah Elmadani, 66 Ali Mahd Abdullah Elmadani, a retired electrical engineer, migrated from the United Arab Emirates to New Zealand in 1998, according to Stuff, a local news website. He was at the Al Noor mosque at the time of the gun assault. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Elmadani was among the six people of Palestinian origin killed in the Christchurch attacks. His daughter, Maha Elmadani, described him as gentle and kind, according to the New Zealand Herald. He was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. 190317120800788 Kamel Mohd Kamal Kamel Darwish, 38 Kamel Darwish, a father of three, was among the six people of Palestinian origin shot dead in the Christchurch mosque attacks, according to Palestines Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Brisbane Times said the 38-year-old had migrated to New Zealand from Jordan about six months ago to join his older brother, Zuhair Darwish. Kamel Darwishs wife and three young children had applied for a visa to join him, according to the Australian newspaper. He was very honest and caring, Zuhair Darwish was quoted as saying. Kamel Mohd Kamal Kamel Darwish was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. 190316150024125 Maheboob Khokhar, 65 In a Twitter post on Saturday, the Indian embassy in New Zealand said Maheboob Khokhar, an Indian national, was killed in the mosque attacks. The 65-year-old was a retired manager at a Gujarat power station and was in Christchurch to visit his 27-year-old son Imran Khokar, Reuters news agency reported. It was Khokhars first time visiting the country, and he was due to fly back to Indian on Sunday with his wife, Akhtar Begum. His son, who migrated to New Zealand in 2010, had just dropped off Khokhar at the Al Noor mosque and was still in the parking lot when he heard the screams, according to Reuters. Khokhar was a humble and jolly man, his friend, Tajuddin Pawar, told the Ahmedabad Mirror. With a very heavy heart we share the news of loss of precious lives of our 5 nationals in ghastly terror attack in #Christchurch Mr. Maheboob Khokhar Mr. Ramiz Vora Mr. Asif Vora Ms Ansi Alibava Mr. Ozair Kadir@kohli_sanjiv @MEAIndia @SushmaSwaraj 1/3 India in New Zealand (@IndiainNZ) March 16, 2019 Arif Mohamedali Vohra, 58 Arif Mohamedali Vohra, named among the dead by Indias embassy in New Zealand, had gone to Christchurch to visit his son and meet his new grandchild a month ago, AFP news agency said, citing his brother, Mohsin Vora. The 56-year-old was from the Indian state of Gujarat. He was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Ramiz Arif Bhai Vora, 28 Vohras son, Ramiz Arif Bhai Vora, was also killed in the mosque shootings, the Indian embassy said. The 28-year-old and his wife had their first child in the week before the attack, according to reports in the Brisbane Times and Radio New Zealand. He was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Ansi Alibava, 23 The Indian embassy in New Zealand said Ansi Alibava was also among those killed. The Indian Express newspaper said the 23-year-old, who was from the southern state of Kerala, moved to New Zealand a year ago with her husband, Abdul Nazar. They had married in 2017. Alibava studied agriculture at Lincoln University, while her husband worked at a supermarket in Christchurch, the newspaper reported. Nazar was praying at a separate mosque at the time of the attack, according to Indian media reports. https://twitter.com/KhaledBeydoun/status/1107302634174730243?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw Ozair Kadir, 25 The fifth Indian national confirmed dead in the mosque attacks was Ozair Kadir, a 25-year-old aspiring pilot from the city of Hyderabad, according to the Indian Social and Cultural Club in Christchurch. The International Aviation Academy of New Zealand paid tribute to its student in a Facebook post. Ozairs presence will be sadly missed by all staff and students at the academy. Our love, thoughts and prayers are with his family who are now in New Zealand preparing to take Ozair home. Mounir Guirgis Soliman, 68 In a post on Facebook, Egypts Ministry of Emigration said 68-year-old Munir Suleiman was among four Egyptians killed in the Christchurch attacks. Stuff said the 68-year-old was an engineer and quality manager at Scotts Engineering, a company that manufactures boilers and pressure vessels. Glenda Hillstead described him as a lovely man who would be missed for his personality and vital role in the company. He had no children and is survived by his wife, Ekram, the website reported. Soliman was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Ahmed Gamal Eldin Mohamed Abdel Ghany, 68 Egypts Ministry of Emigration, citing authorities in New Zealand, also listed 68-year-old Ahmed Gamal Eldin Abdel Ghany as among those killed in Christchurch. It did not provide more details. Stuff said Ghany migrated to New Zealand from Egypt with his wife and son in 1996. He worked at a steel company, ran a souvlaki shop and a food truck called Egyptian Donuts. His son, Omar, said Ghany was a great man with the purest of hearts. Ghany was kind, gentle, compassionate, generous and extremely loving to all those around him, he added. Ghany was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Ashraf el-Moursy Ragheb, 54 Ashraf Morsi was the third Egyptian killed in New Zealands mosque shootings, Egypts Ministry of Emigration said. His age was not listed. He is survived by his wife Siham, the statement said. Ashraf el-Moursy Ragheb was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Ashraf al-Masri, 54 Egypts migration ministry said Ashraf al-Masri was also killed in the Christchurch attacks but did not provide further details. Stuff said he was the father to two children of primary school age, and that his body will be returned to Egypt. Matiullah Safi, 55 The Afghan embassy in Canberra said Matiullah Safi, the second man of Afghan origin, had died in the attack. The statement on Facebook did not give additional details, but condemned the attack as barbaric and said three other Afghan nationals were wounded. The 55-year-old came to New Zealand from Afghanistan nine years ago, and is survived by his wife, daughter and six sons, Stuff reported. Muhammad Zeshan Raza, 39 Pakistans foreign ministry, in a Twitter post on Sunday, said Muhammad Zeshan Raza was among the nine Pakistanis killed in the mosque attacks. It did not provide further details. The mechanical engineer was the only son of his parents, and had moved to Auckland in 2014, the BBC reported. He had been working in Christchurch for less than three months when he was shot dead at the Linwood mosque, according to Stuff. He was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Mr Zeeshan Raza, his father Mr Ghulam Hussain and mother Ms. Karam bibi have now been confirmed to have embraced shahadat in the terrroist attack in #NewZealand. We are in touch with their family. A total of 9 Pakistanis embraced shahadat in #NewZealandTerrorAttack Dr Mohammad Faisal (@DrMFaisal) March 17, 2019 Ghulam Hussain, 67 Razas father, Ghulam Hussain, was also killed in the mosque shootings, said the Pakistani foreign ministry. Hussain, who worked for Pakistan Airlines until his retirement, and his wife had been visiting Raza in Christchurch, the BBC reported. He is survived by his daughter, Maryam Gul. Ali Baig, Guls husband, told AP in Karachi that he spoke to his parents-in-law a day before the attack. I spoke with [my wifes] parents on Thursday. We were chatting with them along with my kids On Friday, we had no information about them, but locals [in Christchurch] contacted us directly and informed us that [my relatives] are missing, he said. Today [Sunday] they announced they are dead. Ghulam Hussain was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Karam Bibi, 64 Razas mother, Karam Bibi, was also killed, the ministry added. The BBC said Bibi was born in Karachi, but her parents were from Punjab province. Bibi is survived by her daughter and was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Muse Awale, 77 Muse Awales death was confirmed by the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand. The 77-year old had been living in Christchurch for about 30 years, according to Stuff. He had previously taught religious studies at Hagley School and the Al Noor Mosque, where he was killed. Awale is survived by his wife, Muhubo Ali Jama and was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Abdukadir Elmi, 66 Abdukadir Elmi was a well known figure in the Christchurch Muslim community, according to Stuff. Having survived the civil war in Somalia, he moved to New Zealand around 10 years ago, the website reported. In a Facebook post, one of his sons, Said, called his father a giant in the community and among the most recognisable faces in the mosque. He was loved for his generosity and his fundraising efforts, Said wrote. He died as a martyr in the place he loved most. Rest in peace my beloved father. Elmi is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, five sons and four daughters. He was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Hussein al-Umari, 35 Hussein al-Umari was a regular at the Al Noor Mosque where he was killed, according to Stuff. He moved to New Zealand with his family from the UAE 22 years ago and had worked in the travel industry, the website reported. Al-Umari was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Mohammed Imran Khan, 47 Originally from India and known as Imran Bhai to family and friends, Khan was a hard worker who owned a restaurant, halal butchery and a cafe, according to Stuff. He was killed in the Linwood mosque and is survived by his wife and 15-year old son. His friend, Sukhvinder Singh, told Stuff that Khan was a kind and helpful man, well loved in Christchurchs Indian and Muslim communities. The website reported that he was a regular at the mosque and often brought food from his restaurant to share with fellow worshippers. Khan was laid to rest in a mass burial at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Linwood, along with 25 other victims of the attacks. The ceremony took place on Friday, March 22. Faisal Mahmud contributed in this report from Dhaka, Bangladesh The European Union has the tools to block the construction of the Nord Stream - 2 gas pipeline, the European deputy for Germany, candidate for the post of head of the European Commission, Manfred Weber said. According to him, the project is not economic, but political. "It is contrary to the interests of the European Union, so we must block it," Weber said. At the same time, he stressed that the EU and Russia already have enough connections. He added that Gerhard Schroeder is one of the most active supporters of the Nord Stream 2 in Europe, who, according to Weber, is not a businessman, but a politician. The focus of many policies around the country is to create an environment for high quality education at public schools. States require teachers to gain certifications, log professional development hours, and create meticulous lesson plans in the hopes they are creating schools full of high-quality teachers, but are these current practices effective? The great economist and moral philosopher of the 18th century Adam Smith provides an intriguing insight on how to incentivize educators. While his recommendation was based on his experience with college professors, the same would apply for K-12 public schools today. Adam Smiths Educational Experience Adam Smith began his academic career at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. After spending three years there, he attended Oxford as part of a traveling fellowship. While Smith recounted his time in Glasgow as meaningful (even later returning as a professor), he described Oxford as a sub-par institution of higher learning. According to Smith, the greater part of the public professors have, for these many years, given up altogether even the pretence of teaching. Smith identified one of the major factors that created the difference between the professors at the two universities as the way each school paid their professors. At Oxford, teachers were paid a standard salary by the university, while the University of Glasgow based their salary upon how many students chose to take a particular professor. Smith stated that even if a professor is naturally active and a lover of labour, it is his interest to employ that activity in any way, from which he can derive some advantage, rather than in the performance of his duty, from which he can derive none. Even some teachers who truly have a passion for teaching will struggle at times for motivation if there is nothing they gain materially from consistently excelling at making a meaningful impact on students. While teaching provides an incredible amount of intrinsic motivation by giving teachers the ability to influence young people during some of the most formative years of their lives, extrinsic motivation must also be taken into account. Merit-based Pay Incentives for Teachers Most teachers get into education to make a difference in the lives of their students. Somewhere along the way many teachers lose some of that drive. Unruly students, lack of administrative support, or poor preparation are some of the factors that help explain why a 2014 study concluded that 41% of U.S. teachers leave the profession in their first five years. One other issue that causes some of the best teachers to leave or not teach to their potential is the lack of rewards for high performance. Most school districts use a pay scale that determines a teachers pay based on how many years he has been in the classroom. Teacher effectiveness is not a component in these pay scales. Many proponents of this type of pay argue that teachers did not choose their profession for the money, but because teaching is their passion. This creates a false binary argument. An individual may not make the decision to become a teacher for the salary, but still respond to monetary incentives. Teaching is an incredibly fulfilling profession, but after years of seeing below-average teachers receive the same pay as the highest performing teachers, many will become frustrated. The best teachers have high demands on their students and on themselves. As years go by these teachers may begin to ask themselves why they work so much harder than their colleagues if their efforts seem to go unrecognized by their districts. Teachers who excel in the classroom should be financially rewarded by their districts, and those who do not should not continue to have their pay increased annually. If districts financially reward teachers based on their effectiveness in the classroom, not only will it motivate those teachers who have that internal motivation, it will motivate those who do not have it. Underperforming teachers should have to work to improve their craft if they want to make more money. Most professions follow a model where increases in pay are tied to performance, so why should teaching be any different? While this may seem like common sense, in many districts today, even the worst-performing teacher will see his salary increase the same amount as the best performing teacher yearly. What makes an effective teacher? Opponents of merit pay incentives for teachers argue that it is impossible to quantify the effectiveness of a teacher. The best way to judge a teacher's effectiveness is an appropriate combination of qualitative and quantitative measures. Quantitative measures that provide data of students measured progress is an indicator of teacher effectiveness. Qualitative measures that can be observed can also provide a district with valuable insight in distinguishing their successful teachers. Qualitative measures may include student engagement, consistent use of high-level critical thinking activities, and extraordinary professional growth. Districts can use criteria that they feel best fit their particular needs. If a district has had traditionally low test scores, the district can heavily weigh student performance on standardized tests and reward teachers that maximize student growth. Another school may have a large dropout rate and use an evaluation model that emphasizes student engagement and teacher rapport with students. Schools can use performance pay to incentivize their staff to improve their effectiveness while simultaneously drawing more young people to the profession. A pay scale providing universal incremental bumps in salary every year does not attract as many young professionals as a pay scale that allows those same professionals to make significantly more if they prove themselves to be superior. Proper Incentives Smiths description of universities as being in general contrived, not for the benefit of the students, but for the interest, or more properly speaking, for the ease of the masters accurately describes the design of many K-12 schools. Often the biggest concern is not student learning, but instead the security of teachers jobs and pay. Great teachers should be compensated well because the effect they have is immeasurable. Districts should be intentional with what their policies incentivize. Tying pay incentives to job performance connects a districts financial investment directly to the quality of learning experiences for students. The more schools structure themselves to reward high performance and deter poor performance, the more effective they will be. Ultimately, the more effective the teacher, the greater the chance the students will be successful, and that is what truly matters. Ryan Walters teaches history and government courses in McAlester, Oklahoma. He can be reached by email at ryanwalters37@gmail.com or on Twitter. Watching Beto O'Rourke announce his candidacy for president, I had snake oil salesmen come to mind. Everything about this guy is fake, which makes him a perfect candidate for fake news media to celebrate. My wife Mary and I spent several weeks in Texas campaigning for Ted Cruz, fighting to stop O'Rourke from stealing Cruz's Senate seat. It was incredible watching O'Rourke's TV ads. Funded with mega-millions from outsiders, O'Rourke's entire U.S. Senate campaign was built upon deceiving voters. For example: While claiming to be pro-Second Amendment, great deceiver O'Rourke voted against every piece of pro-gun legislation that came to his desk. To deceive voters into believing he is a regular guy, millionaire O'Rourke posted video of himself in a laundromat doing laundry. O'Rourke came disturbingly close to scamming Texans into electing him over Ted Cruz. In his elect-me-or-we're-all-gonna- die presidential campaign announcement, O'Rourke claimed there are crises in our economy, democracy, and climate. O'Rourke urgently warned Americans that we are in a "moment of peril." What on Earth is O'Rourke talking about? Our Economy: Trump has our economy booming. Black unemployment is the lowest in recorded history. Hispanics and women are also doing great in Trump's economy. Our Democracy: Mr. O'Rourke, the truth is, you and your fellow Democrats are the greatest threats to our democracy. Democrats seek to criminalize conservative thoughts, conservative speech, and gun ownership. Given their vindictive destruction of Mike Flynn and Paul Manafort, Democrats outrageously seek to criminalize working for Trump. Our Climate: For the gazillionth time, man-made climate change is a proven hoax. O'Rourke passionately warns that not embracing the Green New Deal will lead to the extinction of the human race in a decade or so. Here's a reminder of the insanity in the Green New Deal. By 2030, we must end air travel; end the use of fossil fuels; mandate that every new job be unionized; decommission every nuclear plant; rebuild every building in America for state-of-the-art energy efficiency; and let the government fund everyone, including deadbeats who refuse to work. O'Rourke continued his trademark deception tactic. He said we should ensure immigrants "lawful paths to work." Wait a minute, dude. You and your fellow Democrats say screw our immigration laws; lets roll out the red carpet for illegals. Democrats say because we have pillaged the world's resources and because we are racist, sexist, and homophobic, we do not have moral authority to keep anyone out of our country. Not only is O'Rourke fighting to stop Trump from building a border wall to keep Americans safe, but he wants to tear down the existing border wall in El Paso, Texas. O'Rourke said we should "listen to and lift up rural America." The truth is, O'Rourke and his fellow Democrats despise rural America. Rural Americans voted for Trump, desire to keep their guns, attend Christian churches on Sundays, believe that marriage is between one man and one woman, and believe that abortion and infanticide are evil. Pandering to rural America is simply more of O'Rourke's campaign of deception. As a black American, I was stunned when O'Rourke said we should "confront the hard truths of slavery, and segregation, and suppression in these United States of America." What the heck is he talking about? Ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment in 1865 ended slavery in America. The only segregation I am aware of is black students segregating themselves on college campuses, demanding black student unions and race-based housing facilities. Who are the masses of Americans O'Rourke claims we are suppressing? Do you see O'Rourke using Democrats' disgusting tactic of dividing Americans into bogus victimized voting blocs? After spewing gloom and doom, America-sucks, and everyone-is-a-victim lies, O'Rourke had the audacity to say, "This is going to be a positive campaign." I laughed out loud. O'Rourke is anti-law enforcement, voting against ICE. He calls our nation's police "the new Jim Crow," which cruelly paints targets on the backs of our brave men and women in blue to be assassinated by Black Lives Matter. Kate Steinle was shot and killed by an illegal alien who was deported several times and kept coming back to his sanctuary city, San Francisco. Kate's Law would give mandatory jail time to illegals who repeatedly break our immigration laws. O'Rourke voted against Kate's Law. Supposed man of the people O'Rourke voted against Trump's tax cuts. O'Rourke wants single-payer health care, which leads to rationed health care, in which government makes funding decisions, determining who lives and who dies. While in Texas campaigning for Ted Cruz, I got to witness O'Rourke's deceptive tactics up close when he ran for U.S. Senate. My brother and sister fellow Americans, our country deserves much better than sociopath conman Beto O'Rourke. Lloyd Marcus, The Unhyphenated American Help Lloyd spread the Truth: http://bit.ly/2kZqmUk http://LloydMarcus.com Image: Beto O'Rourke via Flickr. The written word cannot express the true extent of the tragedy that occurred in Christchurch, New Zealand -- in the hazy aftermath that always follows behind a mass shooting, at least that much is already evident. At the time of writing, 49 people have been killed at two separate Christchurch mosques, with dozens more left injured by the shooter. Both media and public officials, in New Zealand and elsewhere have chosen to lay the blame for the killings on conservatives. In fact, conservatism had nothing to do with this. We need to understand exactly how people like this shooter think, and how the media is doing that admirable goal a disservice. How do we know that the shooter isnt a conservative? For starters, he explicitly says that he detests conservatism twice, once in the Q&A and again in his more ideological section, where he devotes a whole page to it: Q: Were/are you a conservative? A: No, conservatism is corporatism in disguise, I want no part of it. The mantra he places at the bottom of the To Conservatives snippet proclaims: CONSERVATISM IS DEAD, THANK GOD. Instead, the shooter admits that he is an actual fascist -- an eco-fascist, to be exact. This is extremely important to point out, and not just for the purpose of exonerating conservatives. Why? Simply because -- as we know -- fascism is far too often conflated with conservatism by political laymen, when anybody who has actually read fascist doctrine knows otherwise. As such, the people who speak out against conservative hate and expect real fascists to be convinced of their faults would be surprised to learn that their actions are entirely counterproductive; the fascist agrees with critiques against conservatives, just as the communist agrees with critiques against liberals. It needs to be understood that the racism and discrimination seen from historical examples of fascism arent mere elements or curable side effects of the ideology -- they are fascism. Anything economic -- although important and notedly based in anti-capitalist critiques -- comes secondary to the supreme goal of forming the desired totalitarian ethnostate which would supposedly act vigorously towards the advancement of its own people above all others. This is because fascists reject democracy, claiming that its machinations restrain and misrepresent the natural ability and energy of the ethnicity it is governing over. Thus, it is much more advantageous to debate against fascism as if it is -- and likely actually is -- an ideology that cannot be represented on a simple Left-Right scale. The media, of course, plays into this dangerous blanket treatment of ideologies, but while that is most certainly a disservice, it isnt the one that I had in mind. Rather, I am more concerned with what appears to be its dismissal of the shooters manifesto as but a rant that should be ignored. If people want to actually prevent incidents like these from ever happening again, these rants need to be taken seriously and studied, so that these ideas can be debated and debunked, not left to fester undetected on forums. This manifesto is anti-Muslim, but it is dangerous to dismiss the shooter's writings as solely Islamophobia. Instead, it needs to be recognized for what it is -- a piece of writing that, while disjointed and memey at times, is fascist to its core. Not only does the author give us his biggest influence -- Sir Oswald Mosley -- but his second section shows that he is very well read when it comes to fascist literature; condensing large arguments into memorable mantras as he does after every single subsection is quite literally right out of Adolf Hitlers book. What also needs to be recognized is the fact that the standard leftist argument against blocking hate speech -- that it gives speakers a platform from which to espouse hate -- is what caused this problem in the first place. How can we tell? Because in the Q&A, the shooter once again tells us. His answer is right above where he dips into giving meme responses, the reasoning for which nobody has pointed out yet. Clearly, however, it is because of the terming of the questions, specifically in how the askers frame him as being a radical or an extremist. He doesnt appreciate that whatsoever -- to him, it isnt extreme to value one ethnicity over another -- so thats why he sarcastically cites Candace Owens, Spyro the Dragon, and Fortnite as his biggest influences. Returning to the matter at hand, he reports that he developed and discovered his beliefs from the internet, of course, confirming what free speech advocates have been fighting to make people realize for years: if people want to learn about something, no matter how noxious it is, the internet will be that repository. You can pretend that those dark sides dont exist, but as this shooter evidenced, they do. You can pretend that these ideas shouldnt be debated as it would legitimize them, but to people like the shooter, these ideas are already legitimate -- he killed 49 people to prove that. You can pretend that it isnt our responsibility to debate people like the shooter, but if you participate in civil society, then it doubtlessly is. Life isnt fair. Its not fair that we should remain constantly vigilant for abuses against our freedoms, but it is a responsibility that we must bear to retain our liberties. Likewise, if we want to retain the lives and freedoms of ourselves and our neighbors, we must also bear the unfair responsibility of debating those who want to end those things. Not everyone has the time and energy necessary to do this. But people need to stay out of the way of those who want to fight back. Dont sweep what he wrote under the rug and dont blame Republicans or Democrats for radicalizing this shooter. Now more than ever, we need to debate specifically against Fascists -- just as we did against Communists back in the day -- for Christchurch, and the future Christchurches that will happen unless we change our course. "Know this: we are watching." Who makes this kind of threat? Reinhard Heydrich, the notorious SS general and chief of the Gestapo? KGB head Vladimir Alexandrovich Kryuchkov? Big Brother? They all talked that way. Last Friday, it was Michigan Department of Civil Rights director Agustin Arbulu's turn to say it. He and Dana Nessel, the new state attorney general, announced plans "to increase the documentation and prosecution of hate crimes and incidents" in the state. Not just hate crimes. Hate incidents. What's a hate incident? you may ask. The MDCR press release says, "Hate and bias incidents are those instances where an action does not rise to the level of a crime or a civil infraction." Designating certain crimes as "hate crimes" was a bad enough idea, but expanding on the idea to target lawful actions that can be subjectively described as hateful goes too far. Is crossing someone off your Christmas card list a hate incident? or instigating a social media mob to destroy your high school frenemy? If a woman turns down a date with a guy because he supports Trump, is that a bias incident? The problem with words like "hate" and "bias" is that they're far too easy to misuse. That's especially the case with people (biased people) who reflexively describe others who don't think like them as being motivated by "hate." Leading the charge in this practice is the Southern Poverty Law Center, which "label[s] virtually anyone who does not fall in line with its left-wing ideology an 'extremist' or 'hate group.'" Now Nessell and Arbulu are using SPLC's "hate map" as a guide for targets to spy on. "Hate cannot continue to flourish in our state," declares Nessel. Or at least hate as defined by Nessel, the ACLU, and the SPLC. As an example of the type of incidents Nessel and Arbulu say they want to stamp out, the MDCR described flyers distributed around Lansing over the Presidents' Day weekend by a group called Patriot Front, a white nationalist splinter group that I'll wager not one in 300 Michiganders has ever heard of. The group's ideas are racist and stupid, including the one they share in common with Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, "that the U.S. government is controlled by Jews." Their flyers called for people to "Keep America American" and report illegal aliens to ICE. There was no suggestion that the members of the group were accosting anyone, were demonstrating, or even were out on the streets. "The flyers," the MDCR helpfully points out, "are protected under the First Amendment and do not rise to a crime." They're also protected under the free speech section of the state Constitution, more or less placing beyond argument that Patriot Front's expression of their ideas, even if offensive and hateful, is a civil right. Then why is the guy in charge of protecting civil rights in Michigan trying to check the exercise of free speech under the excuse that it's hateful? Why is the attorney general, the state's chief law enforcement officer, making it a priority to monitor and document activities that are not violating the law, on the pretext that they're motivated by bias? If the activity is not a civil infraction or a crime, how is it in her bailiwick? In fact, if an activity isn't a civil infraction or a crime, it's none of her freaking business. The attorney general's role is to enforce the law, not to enforce the cultural revolution she serves as a warrior. But progressives in positions of power tend to let the lines blur between legitimate authority and the higher cause of social justice. Things like the Bill of Rights and statutes protecting Christian adoption agencies from being forced to violate their deeply held beliefs are simply obstacles to be swept aside. During her campaign, Nessel said she had no intention of enforcing the Michigan law protecting the religious liberty of Christian adoption agencies, and now she's following through. Even though the state constitution guarantees that "[t]he civil and political rights, privileges and capacities of no person shall be diminished or enlarged on account of his religious belief," Nessel wants to forbid the state from contracting with Christian agencies simply because she and the ACLU don't like (hate?) their religious beliefs. She says she won't use her office to "undermine some of the most important values in our state," but it's her values she cares about, not ours. And her values are abortion, LGBT privileges, and the eradication of Christian influence from the public square. She has no compunction about using her office to impose those values, and they don't include religious liberty or free speech. Nessel's hate crimes unit "will include a minimum of one prosecuting attorney and one full-time investigator" and intends to "review any groups identified in the SPLC list," in addition to those identified through the unit's "independent research." But, as Nolan Finley points out in the Detroit News, "the SPLC list is widely discredited as a political tool used to harass and discredit conservative groups. Spots on the list are earned not necessarily through hateful actions, but for expression of opinions on social issues that don't adhere to left-wing ideology." An instance of how "extremely reckless" the SPLC is about putting groups on its list is its designating the Michigan organization Church Militant/St. Michael's Media an "anti-LGBT" hate group "because it advocates strict Catholic teachings on marriage and is outspoken in its opposition to abortion." Marc Thiessen describes what happened after the Family Research Council (FRC) made SPLC's hate list for believing in marriage. "Two years later, a gunman walked into the FRC headquarters with the intention to 'kill as many as possible and smear the Chick-fil-A sandwiches in victims' faces.' He told the FBI that he had used the SPLC website to pick his target." Just as Nessel's hate crimes unit will do. It's not just the SPLC's reckless list-making that's wrong here. For all the damage it causes, the SPLC is still only a private organization and has been sued successfully and occasionally forced to back down. But the attorney general has police powers, and prosecutors drawing up political enemies' lists where no laws are being broken has more than a whiff of the totalitarian. Am I exaggerating? Civil rights head Arbulu plans a database documenting "hate and bias incidents that don't rise to the level of a crime." But if he intends to document activities that aren't crimes i.e., perfectly legal activities how will he know that they're hate- and bias-related? It's going to require examining people's motives, which means their thoughts, and that means snooping on what they say, what they write, and with whom they associate. This kind of domestic spying will chill both free speech and the right to free association, both of which are guaranteed by the First Amendment. This isn't protecting Michiganders' civil rights; it's violating them. This isn't what legitimate police do. This is what thought police do. No one at Church Militant/St. Michael's Media broke any law or did anything to hurt any LGBT person; regardless, under Nessel's plan, the people there are going to be closely watched by the hate crimes unit. Watched for what? Arbulu says he wants his "department to be proactive and address issues before they rise to the level of a crime." Address issues how? We know that Arbulu said, "We are watching and we won't allow hate to divide us." Free speech is under attack everywhere, with speech codes on campuses, social media shutting down conservatives, the Democrats' phony "For the People Act," the current attack on Tucker Carlson, and kids being bullied at school. With the arrival of Dana Nessel as attorney general, freedom of speech is officially under attack in Michigan, too. T.R. Clancy looks at the world from Dearborn, Michigan. You can email him at trclancy@yahoo.com. Call it providential intervention or just the wisdom of a Chinese fortune cookie, but whatever the impetus, Dr. Richard Moss embarked on a journey to the Third World that he elucidates in his masterful book titled A Surgeon's Odyssey -- a book that deserves a space on everyone's nightstand. Moss, a son of the Bronx, was "exposed to most of the common pathologies of the inner city." But he beat the odds when after 14 years of grueling study and training, he embarked on a journey that led him to Thailand, Nepal, India, and Bangladesh. While working as a cancer surgeon from 1987-1990 he sought to ameliorate the suffering of people who lived under "extraordinarily horrifying circumstances." As a Board Certified Head and Neck Surgeon, Moss brought his skills to these people --many who had "unimaginable diseases at advanced stages and amidst tragic human suffering." This volunteer stint was not for the fainthearted, as he documents the heartbreak he saw at every stage of his time working in the various countries. But the words of the fortune cookie were "Do not forsake your dream for material security," and thus he began a journey that led him to "help the neglected and diseased" as well as "understand healing, its essence, and embrace it as something sacred." He admires the respect accorded him as dictated by Thai custom. He explains the quintessential Thai greeting of "wai" and how it underscores the importance of showing respect. He learns to understand the nuances of the Thai language where "depending on the tone" of one's voice, a word could mean either "beautiful" or "bad luck." He soaks in the nuances of a culture where even the act of walking reflects a smooth "never hurrying" approach, quite the opposite of the hustle and bustle of his New York City upbringing. He comes to view this contemplative walking as a "form of meditation helping to ward off the assault of modern life." A congenial people, Thais also have a formal process which is carefully structured by which members of the opposite sex get to know one another. This traditional culture is another of the many new things Moss would encounter during his stay. He considers the "interplay of culture and healing" and becomes more aware of the contrast between the American expectation of prompt diagnosis, treatment, and cure juxtaposed against the Buddhist belief founded on the "notion of suffering, impermanence and non-self influence." How, he wonders, could the two ideas merge in medicine? Known as Ajarn Moss, Ajarn being a respectful title given to teachers and professors, Dr. Moss learns that tuberculosis is endemic in Thailand so he wears a mask and gloves for every patient he treats. One of the first things he notices is that Thai medical facilities cannot afford to use disposable items as is done in America but that does not stop the Thais from attempting to maintain sterility. Thus, rubber gloves are reused after sterilizing, but as a result, they are stiff and often rip apart. Before long, Moss' "lofty goals" of healing are put to many a severe test. His first patient is a 20-year-old whose cancer is so advanced that the tumor has fully consumed the young man's tongue. It is unnerving to the young physician to realize that early diagnosis and treatment could have helped this young man -- but this is the Third World where options are very limited. He brings his upbringing as a Jewish man to bear as he immerses himself in the East. It is his "noble venture, [his] Kiddush or sanctification" and he would embrace it fully. But little does he know that whatever hardships he had encountered as a youth in the Bronx could not come close to the urban nightmares that await him. He soon learns that CT scans are not standard practice in Thailand. The tools that are basic in American medical care are simply not available in this land of exquisite beauty. The patients Moss sees have "hopeless, absolutely hopeless" medical situations. In America, treatment options are extensive; in Thailand, treatment options are too expensive. Rationing is a necessary evil. Thus, advanced disease is prevalent. The contradictions of life in Thailand are stark. Along with the magnificent Buddhist temples and clear gestures of honor and deference, there is a never-ending sex trade whereby the "brothels -- more like sex factories" act as magnets for raging hormones. The sacred and the profane coexist side by side. Nonetheless, imbued with a "sense of duty, discipline and honor," Moss learns to appreciate how Thai patients "remain unperturbed in the face of utterly devastating medical news." He also comes to realize that for the Thai individual, showing any emotion is "among the worst things he can do" because he will "lose face." Another quality that absorbs Moss' interest is "mai pen rai" which is the remarkable friendliness and assistance of people in caring for their very sick family members. He also learns that a Thai person will never allow a person to die in the hospital unless it cannot be avoided because of the ingrained belief that to transport a dead body would disturb the spirit or the ghost of that individual and it might bring bad luck. Angry ghosts are to be feared. But the above is only a taste of the journey Dr. Moss vividly describes as he recounts his time in the cities of Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Bali, Singapore, Bangkok, Bodhgaya, Goa, Dhaka, and Calcutta, to name only a few. Indeed, this is A Surgeon's Odyssey -- a pilgrimage that is well worth the read from a man who has also lovingly written Matilda's Triumph, a book about the fierce determination of his single mother to raise her six sons. Dr. Richard Moss is a man who appears unafraid to tackle what most would avert their eyes from. It is about a spiritual quest that merges culture, philosophy and religious beliefs with the ultimate goal of helping other human beings. It is about life and death and the shocking, gruesome, triumphant and tragic aspects of each. Eileen can be reached at middlemarch18@gmail.com To anyone but Stanford- and Oxford-educated Chelsea Clinton, it ought to be a no-brainer to tell defenders of anti-Semitic Rep. Ilhan Omar to go (k)iss up a rope. These jackasses decided that Chelsea Clinton's statements decrying the massacre at two mosques in New Zealand, by some self-described fascist freak, were hypocrisy, all because Clinton criticized Omar for her multiple Jew-hating tweets and statements. The statements against what came out of Omar's mouth, see, were what actually triggered the killings. Nine thousand miles around the world, Chelsea Clinton's criticisms were the very thing that activated Brenton Tarrant to fly to New Zealand from Australia and then shoot up two places of worship and the people within. Somebody got a logic meter? Because this one would knock the needle off the scale. Chelsea, in that half-baked "that you feel that way" of hers, decided to apologize. The Daily Caller reports: "I'm so sorry that you feel that way. It was certainly never my intention. I do believe words matter. I believe we have to show solidarity," Clinton stated when approached by students. It would have been a no-brainer, even for her, to come up with some pablum about not liking hate of any kind, making her way through some student memorial among the privileged hipsters of Greenwich Village. But groveling was better. Her idiotic response was just the thing for the bullies on the extreme far left, and they probably knew it. It's redolent of how U.C. Berkeley's radicals jerked around avowed liberal university president Clark Kerr in the 1960s. Eric Hoffer spoke and wrote about that one. Even the children of the Democratic establishment elites are not exempt from the maelstrom of rage coming from the crazed far left, because they will always bow. This brings us back to Chelsea. Her apology was not only cowardly, but also bad stuff for her supposed "brave" stance condemning anti-Semitism in the wake of Omar's revolting statements, giving a few inches to her defenders, presumably in the interest of "civility." You never give anti-Semites so much as a millimeter of ground, and she ought to know it. It just goes to show how weak and tenuous the Democratic elites' claims to supporting condemnation against anti-Semitism really are. Chelsea Clinton folded like a cheap suit, when she should have pulled out her inner attack dog. Image credit: Daily Caller/Fox News screen grab. The whispers have already begun. Representative Ilhan Omar, with only two months in Congress, already is a problem for the Democrats, a potent symbol of a party unwilling to specifically rebuke the most prominent American Jew-hater since Father Coughlin, "the radio priest," reached tens of millions of Depression-era listeners with his anti-Semitic diatribes. Already, a growing stream of articles is tantalizing the national Democrats with intimations that a primary challenge next year could knock her out of her seat. The first I have found comes from Eric Ostermeier: To secure her seat last year, Omar outlasted five opponents in the August 2018 DFL primary with a plurality of the vote (48.2 percent), including former state House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher, state Senator Patricia Torres Ray, and state Senator Bobby Joe Champion (who suspended his campaign prior to the election). With Democratic leadership largely standing by her side, it is unlikely the path to unseating Omar in a primary will be easy. Without the Democratic leadership by her side, it would be much easier, by inference. File photo: Ilhan Omar addresses a rally (photo credit: Fibonacci Blue). A few days later, The Mankato Free Press raised the possibility of a primary challenge: Rep. Ilhan Omar has been a member of Congress for less than three months, but she probably already has the highest national profile of Minnesota's delegation. This is not to her benefit, nor to the state's. ... [The] more troubling part of her notoriety comes from how she criticizes the United States' support of Israel. She has repeatedly trotted out anti-Semitic tropes and questioned the loyalty of fellow legislators. Just as it is repugnant to suggest Omar is connected to al-Qaida, it is repugnant for her to claim that those who disagree with her on Israel are doing so for money or out of allegiance to a foreign government. ... [T]his kind of self-inflicted controversy makes it more likely that she will face a primary opponent. She would do well to focus her criticism on policies rather than personalities. This newspaper is not in Omar's Minneapolis district, but it comes from the home town of Glen Taylor, the billionaire owner of the state's biggest newspaper, the Star-Tribune, which is published out of Minneapolis. Taylor's fortune is anchored in Mankato, where the company he founded still operates, and he represented Mankato in the state Senate for many years. He also owns the Minnesota Timberwolves and, I suspect, is very proud of his (and my) home state. While I haven't lived in Minnesota for about half a century, I have kept in touch (I used to visit Mankato many times a year for board meetings of a company located there), and I understand that Minnesotans' pride in their state can be injured by scorn coming from national elites. If and when Glen and others in the Minnesota establishment start to conclude that Omar is shaming the state in the national public's view, the Strib's refusal to highlight the many problematic aspects of her career (including her apparent immigration fraud with a phony marriage to her brother) might change. A day after this editorial appeared, The Hill reported: Some Minnesota Democrats, aghast at controversial comments made by Rep. Ilhan Omar (D), are taking initial steps to recruit a candidate to run against her in next year's primary election, seeking to buck history in one of the nation's most progressive legislative districts. Several party leaders said they have had discussions about finding a candidate to take on Omar, just two months into her first term in Congress. But even those who were deeply offended by Omar's comments about Israel concede they have not yet found anyone to challenge her. "There's definitely some buzz going around about it, but it's more a buzz of is anyone talking about finding someone to run against her than it is anyone saying they're going to run against her or contemplate it. There's definitely talk about people wanting someone to run against her," said state Sen. Ron Latz (D), who represents a portion of Omar's district. Of course, Omar would have solid support from Somali voters, but they are far from a majority, though a bloc big enough to win a low-turnout primary. A lot will depend on how she behaves from now on, and how badly state and national Democrats want to be rid of her. If and when an attractive Democrat challenges her and the Minnesota media turn on her and start asking, "Will no one rid us of the troublesome Jew-hater?," she may have a real fight for political survival on her hands. Russia will respond to the new anti-Russian sanctions introduced by the European Union (EU) against Russian citizens in connection with the incident in the Kerch Strait, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement released on Saturday, TASS reports. "The pretext for registering our compatriots in the illegitimate EU sanctions lists is strikingly hypocritical and cynical. The issue mainly concerns employees from the border service of the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation who are courageously performing their duty to protect the state border of our country. Still, the only guilt of our border officers is that they suppressed by resolute actions the rude provocation organized in the Kerch Strait area by Kievs authorities on November 25, 2018. <> The Russian side will not leave unanswered the EUs unfriendly action," the ministry said in a statement. The ministry noted that the Councils decision shows disrespect for the right of the Russian Federation to provide the protection of its state border. "It is an irresponsible track that just encourages Kiev toward continuing the policy of provocations which threaten the security of the Russian Federation and other states of the Black Sea region, including the member states of the European Union itself," the Russian Foreign Ministry stated. We hand-delivered a letter yesterday to Speaker Pelosi's office in the Longworth House Office Building, as part of our sit-in in her office. It was very successful, covered by Reuters, Fox, Breitbart, CNS News, Christian Broadcast Network, Heritage, Daily Signal, and many more. We began the event with a speech by me in front of the speaker's office, with a full crowd of people. (There is a video from Breitbart here.) YouTube screen grab via Breitbart. We entered her office, and, as FOX wrote in its caption on the Laura Ingraham Show: "Pro-Israel Supporters Take Over Speaker Pelosi's office." Inside, we hand-delivered the letter and addressed the desk person there (after he telephoned the chief of staff)...all on film, especially at Breitbart. We then read a letter from Judea Pearl, the father of slain journalist Daniel Pearl. We were in the office for over a half hour...and were met by the pro-Omar and anti-Israel Code Pink, who came to upset our rally. After the sit-in in Pelosi's office, we held a press conference on the Capitol grounds right near the Capitol steps, underneath the dome. Congressman Louis Gohmert (R-Texas) sponsored our press conference and also spoke. Here is the text of our letter to the speaker. The dossier that launched several investigations into Donald Trump and his presidential campaign was based, in part, on posts from "random individuals" from a CNN website that allows the public to publish unverified information. Christopher Steele made the admission in a deposition given in connection with a lawsuit against the dossier. The judge released portions of the deposition this week. Washington Examiner: According to deposition transcripts released this week, Steele said last year he used a 2009 report he found on CNN's iReport website and said he wasn't aware that submissions to that site are posted by members of the public and are not checked for accuracy. A web archive from July 29, 2009 shows that CNN described the site in this manner: "iReport.com is a user-generated site. That means the stories submitted by users are not edited, fact-checked, or screened before they post." The FBI was able to obtain several FISA warrants based on the dossier. Was the FISA judge told that some of the information was from an internet crank? He was pressed on this further: "Do you understand that CNN iReports are or were nothing more than any random individuals' assertions on the Internet?" Steele replied: "No, I obviously presume that if it is on a CNN site that it may has [sic] some kind of CNN status. Albeit that it may be an independent person posting on the site." When asked about his methodology for searching for this information, Steele described it as "what we could call an open source search," which he defined as "where you go into the Internet and you access material that is available on the Internet that is of relevance or reference to the issue at hand or the person under consideration." Steele said his dossier contained "raw intelligence" that he admitted could contain untrue or even "deliberately false information." When in doubt, Google it. The FBI was aware of Steele's "sources" but still used the dossier to convince a FISA judge to issue a warrant against Trump campaign aide Carter Page. That the FBI has, to this day, refused to verify the authenticity of the information in the dossier is not surprising. A document as flawed as this should never have been presented to a FISA court as justification for granting a warrant to spy on Carter Page. It makes the FBI look ridiculous. Many on the left still take the dossier as gospel and refer to it as if it were relevant. It isn't. It was a political smear job, paid for by Democrats, that Steele passed on to a former aide to GOP presidential candidate John McCain, who gave it to BuzzFeed, who then posted it. The FBI has no interest in declaring most of the information in the dossier untrue. Look at the anti-Trump mileage they're getting out of it. Someday, in some dusty history of our times, a small footnote will tell the story of how a political hit job was used to try to blow up a presidency. Cartels have long been in the business of facilitating the illegal entry of aliens into the U.S. But the coyotes have discovered a way to drastically lower their overhead costs while maximizing profit. It's called the "conveyor belt" system, where the cartels use buses to bring Central American asylum-seekers through Mexico right to the U.S. border. They then walk across the border and turn themselves in to border patrol officers as they seek asylum. This is a massive abuse of U.S. asylum laws, but it is tolerated by the courts, as well as Republicans and Democrats. Washington Post: Paying up to $7,000 per adult with child, families are transported to staging areas at ranches and hotels in southern Mexico, where they are organized into bus groups and rushed north along Mexican highways, "stopping only for food, fuel and bathroom breaks," according to the U.S. law enforcement documents. ... Within 72 hours of leaving the staging areas, the buses arrive at predetermined drop-off points within walking distance of the U.S. border. Migrant families are clustered into groups that have at times exceeded 300 adults and children, and they walk directly across the border, in some cases stepping over barriers in long, orderly lines. They then surrender to U.S. Border Patrol agents and initiate asylum claims. ... By using the direct-bus method, smugglers can eliminate the need for stash houses along the border where they would normally keep migrants under the watch of armed guards before sneaking them across the border. The express routes "minimize overhead and maximize capacity," according to the U.S. documents, allowing smugglers to reduce "operational costs to a minimum." Brietbart's Neil Munro lists some of the loopholes that allow this practice: The judges' loopholes, for example, require border officials to quickly release migrants who bring their children with them across the border. The resulting catch-and-release policy allows the migrants to get through the border wall and into U.S. jobs in one day. Judges have also moved quickly to block any countermeasures by the U.S. government. For example, a revision of "credible fear" asylum rules set by former Attorney Gen. Jeff Sessions was blocked nationwide by a judge even before a trial. The block ensures that nearly all migrants can get released into the United States by merely asking for asylum, regardless of whether they have grounds for seeking asylum. Similarly, GOP and Democratic politicians have done little to slow the rapid growth in migrants. In fact, the February budget deal provides hundreds of millions of dollars in aid, transportation, and welfare for migrants as they cross the border. The budget deal also reduces the number of jail spaces where migrants can be kept until their asylum claims are heard. Most of the migrants are not schooled in the ins and outs of U.S. asylum laws, so someone is teaching them how to game the system. Otherwise, it's the same old story: while waiting for their court hearing on asylum, a wait that lasts years, the migrants disappear into the U.S. heartland and work illegally. Outside jawboning the Mexican government, very little is done to halt this massive flow of migrants. It's estimated that up to one million Central Americans will enter the U.S. this way this year. That's an intolerable burden on local governments, who are forced to feed, school, and care for the newcomers for years. Sending asylum-seekers back across the border to wait in Mexico is an option, but the Mexican government allows only a certain number back into their country. More pressure must be placed on Mexico to halt this human-trafficking instead of turning a blind eye to the "conveyor belt." While Android Q did come out a couple of days ago, many are still finding some new features and changes to Android Q, through the beta that was released. One of those new changes appears to be the faster clock speed. When the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL were released last fall, they launched with a clock speed of 2.45GHz on the Snapdragon 845. Even though that processor is normally clocked at 2.8GHz, on other phones like the Galaxy S9 and Note9. Now it appears that Google has decided to up the clock speed on the Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL. This is a pretty minor change, that most people likely did not even notice, unless they go into CPU-Z and check the clock speed. And as you can see from the screenshot below, it does indeed go up to 2.8GHz. While that small bump, of less than 400MHz likely doesnt mean much on paper, it does appear to make the Pixel 3 XL a bit smoother on Android Q than it was on Android Pie. Advertisement When Android Q first arrived on my Pixel 3 XL, I noted on Twitter that it feels much smoother than Pie did on the same device. I was not alone. While it could all just be a placebo affect, seeing as it is a brand new operating system, it doesnt have all of the stuttering and memory issues that Pie had on the Pixel 3 from launch until now. It is very possible that Google was able to workout those issues in Android Q, though that would be a bit of a surprise. After all this is a beta, a version of software that is expected to have bugs. Then again, how is a beta going to be smoother than a stable version of Android? Android Q does bring quite a few changes to Android, including a renewed focus on privacy. This should not be a big surprise for a lot of people, given that Google is being fined in all areas of the world, for its privacy practices. In Android Q, it is making it easier to see which apps have which permissions, so you can keep flashlight apps from having access to your call logs. It also allows you to give location permission only when you have the app open, instead of all the time. Thats just a few of the privacy features that Google has included in Android Q. Other features included are a new share menu. The menu itself is nearly identical to Android Pie, but there is one big difference. It is much faster. Meaning that when you hit share it is actually going to open the share menu then, and not 10-15 seconds later. Google has also included a system-wide dark mode. However in the first beta, its pretty hit or miss. Either you have it before upgrading, or you have to turn on battery saver to get it. And if you do have it, you cant turn it off. Advertisement Its unclear if this increase in the clock speed is what has made the Pixel 3 XL feel much faster, compared to it running on Android Pie. But it definitely sounds like it. The New Zealand government is looking at banning semi-automatic weapons following the killing of 49 worshipers at two Christchurch mosques, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said, RT reports. The primary suspect was an Australian citizen who travelled sporadically to New Zealand and stayed for varied amount of time, Ardern told reporters. I would not describe him as a long-term resident. He was not on a government watch list in either New Zealand or Australia. All of the suspected shooters five weapons were legally acquired, according to the PM. The fallout from Paul Schimmels lamentable exit from the chief curatorship of the Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art is a reputational hit from which director Jeffrey Deitch may not recover. The outcry in the press and on MOCAs own blog over Schimmels dismissal/resignation (depending on whom you talk to) confirms what I have stated from the get-go: LA MOCAs dealer-to-director gambit was misguided and misconceived. In my CultureGrrl commentary, Dealer-to-Director: Why Jeffrey Deitch is Wrong for LA MOCA (posted in January 2010, after Deitch was named to the museums directorship, but before he assumed that post on June 1, 2010), I wrote: MOCA cant afford to take another flyer [after the artistically distinguished but financially ruinous directorship of Jeremy Strick]. It needed a serious, seasoned museum professional, without commercial baggage and with a proven track record of keeping the proper balance between exciting programming and a balanced budget. The risks to its operations and reputation from its eccentric choice are too high [emphasis added]. With the departure of SchimmelMOCAs supreme exhibition mastermind, who embodied MOCAs institutional memory and professional soulthe reputational and operational risks that I foresaw at the time of Deitchs appointment are being realized, two years into his tenuous tenure. Its a directors job to ensure that his curatorial team has the administrative and financial support they need to fulfill their projects. But Deitch seems more interested in conceiving high-profile projects of his own than in doing the fundraising drudge-work that, like it or not, is a major part of his job description. Deitchs mindset never made the requisite recalibration from that of commercial dealer, ultimately reponsible to himself, to that of nonprofit museum director, answerable to the an institutional audience and the general public. His embarrassing tone-deafness regarding what a museum director should sound like has been demonstrated repeatedlyin his blunt comments about his plans to continue selling works from his gallery inventory and from his collection (to supplement his inadequate museum salary); his infatuation with the Hollywood lifestyle (and with James Franco) and, most jarringly, his recent comments at Art Basel, where he expressed resentment at the reluctance of museum philanthropists to open their pockets to him in the same way that megabucks collectors did what he sold them art. Deitch was expected to parlay his impressive artworld contacts into munificence for MOCA, as he acknowledged in his January 2010 interview with Mike Boehm of the LA Times. From the frustration Deitch expressed in his Art Basel remarks (which also appeared to take an implied swipe at MOCAs life trustee and mega-patron Eli Broad), it appears that things havent worked out the way he (and the museums trustees) had hoped. Whether or not Schimmel was sometimes hard to deal with (as suggested in comments by LA Times readers, appended to Christopher Knights astute analysis of the MOCA mess), he was widely recognized as a genius at audaciously tackling provocative subjects. His long series of influential, fancifully titled think exhibitions included: Helter Skelter: LA Art in the 1990s, Hand-Painted Pop: American Art in Transition 1955-1962, Out of Actions: Between Performance and the Object, 1949-1979, Ecstasy: In and About Altered State, Under the Big Black Sun: California Art, 1974-1981. As an independent curator, he will continue working on Destroy the Picture: Painting the Void, 1949-1962 (opening Sept. 29). The museum has indicated that Schimmel will not be replaced and that Deitch will supervise the curatorial program, becoming the museums de facto chief curator. Part of this organizational shift is probably driven by financial considerations. In a statement that tries to put cost-cutting in a favorable light, MOCA revealed: In addition to announcing Pauls resignation, we have made a few other changes in advance of our new fiscal year that are routine for non-profit institutions [when they face financial challenges]. There have been adjustments [read, cuts] to staff [as reported here by Mike Boehm and Jori Finkel of the LA Times] and minor changes to the exhibition schedule and our education program. We feel it is important to take a balanced budget approach [emphasis added], matching expenses to anticipated revenues. Neither side, so far, is talking about the reasons for the Deitch/Schimmel dust-up. The protagonists are likely barred from explaining the situation, under the terms of Schimmels undisclosed severance agreement. His silence may be one part discretion, one part adherence to conditions attached to a monetary settlement. The terms of another monetary settlementthat made with Strick when he resigned from MOCAs directorshipare laid out in the museums Form 990 tax return for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2010 (p. 30). Although Strick left MOCA in January 2009, he continued to be paid the compensation provided in his employment contract through June 2010. His reportable compensation for fiscal 2010 (when he was no longer at the museum) was $506,747, according to the tax return (p. 24). Schimmels compensation in fiscal 2010 was $256,259. In that same fiscal year, the museums interim CEO, Charles Young (brought in as Stricks temporary replacement) was paid $365,593. With Schimmel gone, Deitch and MOCA may have saved some money but lost professional stature and public confidence. Singapores 2019 budget was announced on February 19 this year. With probably an eye on elections, which are likely to be held in early 2020, social provisions for the elderly and increased military spending find center stage in this years budget. Incentives for businesses were not the key focus of this largely society-driven budget. The 2019 Singapore Budget focusses on security and shows that the government is taking a deliberate approach to expediting digital skills and re-skilling the local Singaporean workforce with less reliance on foreign workers, said Paul Dwyer, who leads the International Tax and Transfer Pricing practice at Dezan Shira & Associates. In this article, we present key highlights from the budget and outline their potential implications for businesses. Tax Changes for Businesses In a bid to give further boost to Singapores knowledge-based economy, Writing Down Allowances (WDA) for Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) are proposed to be extended until 2025. All capital expenditures made in respect of qualifying IPRs before the end of the period will be covered by the WDA scheme. Specific income tax concessions for Singapore-listed Real Estate Investment Trusts (S-REITs) will be extended until the end of 2025. For Real Estate Investment Trusts Exchange Traded Funds (REITs ETFs), the current tax regime will be extended until 2025. An existing sunset clause for tax exemptions on S-REITs and REITs ETFs distribution received by individuals will be removed. Further, the Designated Unit Trust (DUT) scheme will lapse after March 31, 2019. Funds in the form of unit trusts, however, can apply for other tax incentives provided for funds. Until the deadline, approved DUTs will continue to receive the tax deferral benefits under the DUT scheme after the end of the deadline if they meet all the conditions. Additionally, the Approved Unit Trust (AUT) scheme will lapse on February 18, 2019. Tax concessions for existing AUTs will still be granted for a period of 5 years until 2024, giving them time to transit to an alternative tax incentive scheme. Tax Changes for the Financial Sector Tax incentives for funds managed by Singapore-based fund managers (qualifying funds) will be extended until the end of 2024, with slight changes. The condition that basic tier funds must not have 100 percent value of issued securities beneficially owned by Singapore persons will be removed, effective from 2020. The enhanced tier fund scheme will be enhanced to: Include co-investments, non-company Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) and more than two tiers of SPVs; Allow debt and credit funds to access the committed capital concession and; Include managed accounts. Further, the list of Designated Investments (DIs) will be expanded. First, however, counter-party and currency restrictions will be removed. Investments such as credit facilities and advances and Islamic financial products with commercial equivalents to DIs will be added. The condition for unit trusts to wholly invest in DIs will be removed. The list of Specified Income (SI) will be expanded by including income in the form of payments that fall within the ambit of section 12 (6) of the ITA. Qualifying non-resident funds will be able to avail themselves of the 10 percent concessionary tax rate applicable to qualifying non-resident non-individuals when investing in S-REITs and REITs ETFs. Good and Service Tax (GST) Changes The concession for GST recovery for qualifying funds will be extended until the end of 2024. Additional information on the change will be provided by May 2019. GST relief for international travelers will be adapted to the new conditions. If 48 hours or more are spent outside of Singapore, the GST relief goes down to S$600. If spending less than 48 hours outside of Singapore, the GST relief is changed to S$ 150. With effect from April 1, 2019, the total duty-free allowance for alcohol will be reduced to 2 liters with a maximum for spirits remaining at 1 liter. GST remission for S-REITs and Singapore-listed Registered Business Trusts (RBTs) will be extended until the end of 2025. It covers listings in the infrastructure business and the ship leasing and aircraft leasing sectors. All other conditions for GST remission remain the same. Business Support Schemes The 2019 budget will combine existing SME funding schemes with the Enterprise Financing Scheme (EFS) to provide a better overview of the available funding. The SME Working Capital Loan (WCL) scheme will be extended until March 31, 2021. Under the WCL, the government is taking up to 70 percent of the risk for bank loans compared to the current 50 percent for businesses incorporated less than 5 years ago. Additional S$ 100 million are allocated to the SME Co-Investment Fund III to continue supporting firms scaling up and internationalize. 100 percent Investment Allowances under the Automation Support Package (ASP) will be extended by 2 years until March 31, 2021. The allowance covers approved capital expenditure, net of grants, on projects approved by Enterprise Singapore. The approved capital expenditure is capped at S$ 10 million per project. At the same time, the support under the Enterprise Development Grant (EDG) will be extended until March 31, 2023. It covers support up to 70 percent of eligible expenses made by SMEs in adopting digital technology. The Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG) provides funding for SMEs to adopt digital solutions for cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. Further, the pilot phase of an Innovation Agents program will be implemented with the 2019 budget. Start-ups can tap on a pool of experts to get advice to innovate and commercialize technology. According to Dwyer, The Singapore Governments push for SMEs to adopt digital technologies and expand into e-commerce has a number of benefits; firstly it will help local Singapore businesses to expand into new areas. It will also have a positive impact in terms of growing the digital economy which can contribute to goods and services tax (GST) collections from imported services from 1 January 2020. Other Changes The Not Ordinarily Resident (NOR) scheme will lapse at the beginning of 2021. Already granted NORs will be further supported till the expiration of the status. The Property Tax (Tourist Projects) order will lapse after February 18, 2019. Diesel tax will be increased from S$ 0.10 per liter to S$ 0.20. For mitigating the effects, a three-year road tax rebate for diesel vehicles (including commercial vehicles) will be introduced and supersede the existing road tax rebate. The rebate will take effect from August 1, 2019, to July 31, 2020, at 100 percent adjusted to 75 percent from August 1, 2020, and 50 percent from August 1, 2021, until July 2022. Additionally, the quota of foreign workers in the services sector will be tightened. From January 2020 foreign workers in the service sector can only make up 38 percent and from January 2021 only 35 percent of the workforce. The proportion of S Pass workers will be reduced to 13 percent in January 2020 and 10 percent from January 2021 onwards. Outlook Despite its orientation towards the upcoming polls, the 2019 budget attempts to address some major issues that the country is currently facing a rapidly aging society as well as security issues involving some neighboring countries. The funding of SMEs, start-ups and tech companies are aimed at upscaling the Singapore economy, capacity building and securing more opportunities for local Singaporeans. Support from Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2014 saved the lives of residents of Crimea, the head of republic Sergei Aksenov said. It would not have happened if our President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin did not personally manage this operation and did not take personal decisions on which the fate of the Crimean people and Sevastopol residents depended, Aksenov said, adding that in five years there had been enormous changes in the region. "We did not set the conditions, did not require anything, we just believed that this should be done, because this is our only chance to save peace, respect, friendship on the Crimean peninsula," RIA Novosti quotes the governor of Crimea as saying. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Hi All Wanted your help on this topic as i can see people have posted in a blog and others are advising to contact Jeremy as he has experience with handling this issue. I found foloowimg reply on a blog: Another thing Mish, you can arrive back in Australia on Tourist visa, reinstate the BVA, then apply for a new tourist visa for a period of one week. The BVA will kick in one week after the new tourist visa is granted. One of my colleagues has done this successfully on several occasions. My wife is from india and she was on spouse visa 2nd stage with BVA in affect and she is working full time before we left and as suggested now the only option to get her back to Australia is to apply for Tourist visa and once in Australia apply to reinstate BVA. Can you tell me once BVA reinstated can we apply for another tourist visa while in Australia? Is that possible to apply for tourist visa for 7 days only the very first time when make an application from india. Or if you can tell me the process how to apply for another tourist visa while in Australia after getting BvA reinstated that would be bery helpful. As my wife is working full time it would be hard if she doesnt have work rights and cant work. Thanks Ace Hi everyone,My fiance is Iranian (citizen) and I am Australian (citizen). We are applying for the PMV in the next week or so. We met in Sydney and I've visited her in Iran on 3 occasions, one of which we had a religious engagement ceremony. Our evidence of relationship is from these times only, plus online communication.I believe our case is strong; however, there is something i'm not sure of.Because we miss each other dearly, and feel depressed by the potential 12 - 17 waiting time, we would like to travel to a foreign country and work and live together (we are both ESL teachers). How will this affect our application during its processing period?I expect I will be able to upload more evidence of our relationship, but will it negatively affect us?What are the consequences of this arrangement that I cannot see?Thank you very much,Jesse SUV MPV And the problem is only going to get worse until a new factory is opened. Last year, the two factories in the Czech Republic, Mlada Boleslav, and Kvasiny put together 886,100 vehicles. The Skoda Scala compact and Kamiqare also being added, creating a bottleneck.Volkswagen is going to make matters worse because it wants to concentrate production of all the MEB electric cars in Germany. And that means the Passat will be pushed to the same line as its sister, the Superb.Company officials have been looking for the ideal location to add a third Skoda factory in Europe. And according to Autonews , that's going to be Serbia. According to their report, the country has already been picked by the VW Group, and this yet unnamed factory will also assemble SEAT models that have yet to be named.When asked about the matter in Geneva, Skoda CEO Bernhard Maier said four countries were being taken into consideration but admitted the decision should be reached during the first half of the year.Turkey was a top contender, yet its star is waning due to a decline in the lira and other internal reasons. Bulgaria and Romania were also considered but lack infrastructure to ship the assembled cars to Central and Western Europe. Our vote would have gone to Hungary, where Audi makes most of its compacts as well as a variety of smaller engines.Alas, Serbia is being picked, and it's also home to Fiat. This is a relatively small operation with a total capacity of 85,000 units annually that puts together the slow-selling 500L, though a new SUV will b added next year. Thank you for reading! Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue. An Australian man accused of killing 49 people in 2 New Zealand mosques smiled and gave a "white power" sign during his court appearance Saturday morning local time, witnesses say. The details: Brenton Harrison Tarrant, 28, did not enter a plea when he appeared in Christchurch District Court, charged with the murder of one person who was killed in Friday's attacks in the most populous city on New Zealand's South Island. Only the media was allowed to watch proceedings and the judge ordered the suspect's face to be blurred. Reporters attending the proceedings said they saw Tarrant smile and make an upside-down "OK" gesture, which is a symbol used by white power groups. The big picture: Police will allege the suspect was equipped to continue when police stopped him, according to Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. Police still have 2 other people in custody they arrested in connection with the attacks, but they have released a 4th person. What she's saying: "The offender was mobile," Ardern said at a press conference. "There were two other firearms in the vehicle that the offender was in, and it absolutely was his intention to continue with his attack." What's next? Police said more charges were likely to be laid. Tarrant is due to appear again on April 5. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said she'll hold talks with her Cabinet ministers Monday to discuss changing the country's gun laws in the wake of the Christchurch attacks, vowing: "They will change." The latest: Ardern said at a press conference Sunday afternoon local time that shooting suspect Brenton Harrison Tarrant, 28, was being held in a "specialist" secure facility. Police say he is the only person of the 4 arrested after Friday's mosque attacks who has been charged. They do not believe there are any other suspects. A small number of bodies of the 50 victims were being returned to families in the evening, said Ardern, who expected all to be returned by Wednesday. Some people still missing were presumed to have died in the attacks during Friday prayers, police said. The chief coroner, Judge Deborah Marshall, said authorities were working to quickly release remains, with two other coroners and four support staff assisting. At Christchurch hospital, 34 shooting victims were being treated. A 4-year-old girl was earlier transferred to a children's hospital in a critical condition. The prime minister gave an update on the anti-Muslim manifesto her office and 30 other organizations received minutes before the massacre. "It did not include a location, it did not contain specific details," she said. "It was conveyed to parliamentary security within two minutes of receipt." The official donation page for victims of the shootings raised almost $4 million by Saturday night ET. The big picture: Although police had yet to release the names of those who died, we are learning of the victims who lost their lives from their relatives and a variety of countries. Their ages range from 3 to 77, police said. A tweet previously embedded here has been deleted or was tweeted from an account that has been suspended or deleted. Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said 9 of its citizens were killed in the attacks. Egypt confirmed the deaths of 4 Egyptians. Jordan said 3 Jordanian nationals had died in the attacks. New Zealand Football confirmed Kuwait-born New Zealand Futsal player Atta Elayyan was among the victims. Syrian refugee and his teenage sons were also confirmed to have been killed. A 71-year-old man, originally from Afghanistan, heard saying in video of the attack "welcome brother," before being shot, was the first victim to be publicly named. What they're saying: Senior Deans Ave Mosque leader Farid Ahmed, whose wife died in the attack, told New Zealand news outlet Newshub Sunday he had forgiven the gunman. "I love him to be honest," he said. "I think probably he went through some trauma in his life, probably he wasn't loved... I don't hate him at all." A tweet previously embedded here has been deleted or was tweeted from an account that has been suspended or deleted. A nation mourns: Hundreds of people attended vigils at the mosques where the attacks occurred, Al Noor and Linwood Majid, in the South Island city, one of many being held across New Zealand this weekend. A tweet previously embedded here has been deleted or was tweeted from an account that has been suspended or deleted. What's next: A memorial for the Christchurch victims will be held in Parliament on Tuesday. Tarrant is due to appear in a Christchurch court again on April 5 after being charged with a single count of murder. Police expect to lay more charges soon. The terrorist attack in New Zealands mosques stressed the need for joint efforts in the fight against terrorism and Islamophobia, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said, condemning the barbarous crime. Rouhani condemned the terrorist attack on worshipers in mosques in New Zealand, calling the incident disgusting and tragic. According to him, the attack on the parishioners was a reminder of the need for collective measures to counter terrorism, news.am reports. People around the world have come out in support of Muslims in the face of hate following the deadly shootings in Christchurch, New Zealand that targeted 2 mosques, CNN reports. Whats happening: Members of other faiths have been welcoming Muslims and those affected into their own places of worship, including St. Pauls Cathedral in London, amid security concerns at mosques around the world. In New Zealand, the Jewish community will reportedly close its synagogues on the Sabbath for the first time as people have received warning to stay away from mosques in the aftermath of the deadly attack. Australia canceled the visa of controversial right-wing commentator Milo Yiannopoulos Saturday, ahead of his planned tour there over comments he made concerning the Christchurch terrorist attacks. Mr Yiannopoulos' comments on social media regarding the Christchurch terror attack are appalling and foment hatred and division." The details: Australia's Immigration Minister David Coleman had personally approved Yiannopoulos' visa last week, despite a Department of Home Affairs letter stating he should not be allowed into the country, citing concerns that he might not pass the character test that prevented WikiLeaks whistleblower Chelsea Manning from entering the country, according to the Sydney Morning Herald. 1 big thing: Why offshore wind is taking off HOUSTON Power from offshore wind is finally poised for liftoff in the United States. Why it matters: The U.S. has long been a laggard, but that's poised to change thanks to a convergence of forces that analysts see bringing enough coastal wind online over the next decade to power millions of homes. What's happening: A huge energy conference here in the nation's oil-and-gas capital offers a window into what's prompting giant energy companies to plan multibillion dollar investments. It's a story of... Atlantic Coast states moving ahead with zero-emissions power procurement policies. Oil-and-gas majors expanding their low-carbon power portfolios. Technology evolution and falling costs. The Trump administration supporting the development even as it abandons Obama-era climate programs. What they're saying: The missing piece for some time was actually an interest from the states up along the coast to acquire this power from this industry, says Christer af Geijerstam, who heads U.S. wind efforts for the oil-and-gas giant Equinor. Thats where we have seen the significant shift the last 2-3 years being led by New York and Massachusetts, he tells Axios while at the big CERAWeek by IHS Markit conference. ICYMI: In December, Equinor was among the winning bidders in a federal auction of development sites that are off the Massachusetts coast. The big picture: IHS Markit's current forecast sees 7 gigawatts of offshore wind coming online in the U.S. by 2030, up from almost nothing today. But that estimate could rise. We will be looking carefully at what the outcome of solicitations in Massachusetts and New Jersey and New York is going to be, IHS associate director Max Cohen says. Bloomberg NEF already projects 11.4 gigawatts of capacity by 2030. They've upped their estimate thanks to a combination of specific solicitations and long-term targets by state governments in Virginia, New Jersey and elsewhere. Where it stands: Equinor is among several deep-pocketed companies in the space planning projects. Here are some other players... Danish wind giant Orsted bought the U.S. firm Deepwater Wind last year. bought the U.S. firm Deepwater Wind last year. A joint venture between Shell and EDP also had a winning bid in the recent Massachusetts sale. The U.S. has a magnificent wind resource right next to a large population and highly densely populated areas, Enrique Alvarez Uria of EDP Renewables said at a panel here yesterday. also had a winning bid in the recent Massachusetts sale. The U.S. has a magnificent wind resource right next to a large population and highly densely populated areas, Enrique Alvarez Uria of EDP Renewables said at a panel here yesterday. Vineyard Wind, co-owned by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners and Iberdrola's Avangrid Renewables, snapped up a lease that adds to their plans for a separate project in the region. What we're hearing: One real but hard to quantify factor is the role shareholder pressure plays on these decisions. The changing ESG [environmental, social and governance] landscape is really going to move capital, Jonathon Kaufman, the co-head of the power and renewables group at Credit Suisse, said at a separate panel discussion yesterday. The intrigue: Offshore wind has long been a big thing in Europe. But one irony of U.S. delay into this sector is the upside of being a late mover lower costs. Go deeper: Read the full story. By Laman Ismayilova The 1033 Baku Event Hall will host the final night of Top Model Azerbaijan 2019 on March 18. Models will appear on the catwalk in clothes from various brands. The main goal of the project is to identify models for participation in international podiums. The founder and director of the project is Novruz Ismayil. The finalists will be judged by the models Rustam Jabrayilov, Ilgar Aliyev, Elhan Huseyn, Parviz Aliyev, Rustam Hajiyev and others, Trend Life reported. The event will be attended by actors, bloggers,influencers, designers, photographers, mas media representatives. Professional Awards will be given in various nominations. By the way, Brand Week Azerbaijan will also be held soon. Media partners of the event are Azernews.az,Trend.az, Day.az, Milli.az. --- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Lam_Ismayilova Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend Over the past 24 hours, Armenian armed forces have violated the ceasefire along the line of contact between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops 21 times, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said March 16, Trend reports. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend There are 5,209,420 voters in Azerbaijan, Chairman of the countrys Central Election Commission (CEC) Mazahir Panahov said at the CEC meeting March 15, Trend reports. He said that 50.83 percent of voters are women and 49.17 percent are men. He stressed that by the end of May, it is planned to complete the process of clarifying voter lists. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has sent a condolence letter to Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern over heavy casualties and injuries as a result of an armed attack at the mosques in the city of Christchurch. We were deeply saddened by the news of heavy casualties and injuries as a result of an armed attack at the mosques in the city of Christchurch, Ilham Aliyev said in his letter. We are extremely outraged by this ruthless terror act, and resolutely support the international community`s efforts against all forms and manifestations of terrorism. Over this horrible incident, on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan and on my own behalf, I extend my deepest condolences to you, the bereaved families and loved ones of those who were killed and the whole people of New Zealand, and wish the injured the swiftest possible recovery. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Ukrainian journalist Olesya Medvedeva, who traveled to Crimea, said that in five years Russia has invested more in the region than Ukraine in the previous 23 years. "It is clear that Russia is investing huge amounts of money in Crimea: the Crimean bridge, the Taurida highway, the Simferopol airport, kindergartens, hospitals, power stations. All this is literally being built from scratch," she said. According to the journalist, contrary to the statements of Kiev, prices in Crimea are generally comparable with Ukrainian ones. She also noted higher wages and lower prices for gasoline and utilities. As an inconvenience, she noted the need to comply with the laws. The United States, France, Germany and the United Kingdom said in a joint statement on Friday that they will not consider providing reconstruction assistance to Syria until a credible political process is underway, News.am reported citing Urdu Point. "The Governments of France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States reiterate our support for the UN-led process in Geneva and UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2254 to bring about a peaceful and stable Syria," the statement said. "We are clear that we will not consider providing or supporting any reconstruction assistance until a credible, substantive, and genuine political process is irreversibly underway." The United States and its allies reject the opinion of Syria and Russia that conditions are right for reconstruction and call on them to come to the negotiating table to reach a political solution to the conflict, the statement said. As the armed conflict in Syria seems to be nearing its end and Damascus has regained control over the vast territories that were previously controlled by terrorist groups and rebels, Syria has already launched the reconstruction process and started welcoming back refugees. Last year, Syrian President Bashar Assad estimated that it may take up to $400 billion to reconstruct the country after the conflict. In many Syrian cities, infrastructure was destroyed, while the country's transport system also needs to be restored. The situation is compounded by the fact that the United States and European Union have imposed sanctions that prevent other countries from helping Syri A 60-year-old member of an outlaw motorcycle club was arrested Friday on murder and gang charges in the stabbing death last month of an appare Who Has the Price Drops on Oregon Coast for Spring Break? Some Pleasant Travel Surprises Published 03/13/2019 at 7:53 PM PDT By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Oregon Coast) Even through spring break, when lodging prices jump substantially, you can find some price drops on the Oregon coast. The better prices come just after the spring break weeks, and of course, and not everyone is featuring drops in prices or deals during the vacation weeks. Even more of these are found on the separate lodging pages for each area: Yachats, Waldport, Newport, Depoe Bay, Lincoln City, Pacific City, Oceanside, Tillamook, Rockaway Beach, Manzanita, Cannon Beach, Seaside and Astoria. Click on those links on the righthand side of the page. More Oregon Coast Lodging Specials here as well. Cannon Beach Vacation Rentals. Even through the spring break weeks you can catch a break. Pay for two nights and get the third free. Valid through April 15. 164 Sunset. Cannon Beach, Oregon. 503-436-0940. 866-436-0940. www.visitcb.com Starfish Luxury Vacation Rentals: Arch Cape, Manzanita and Cannon Beach area. They have recently reduced spring rates and are now offering a five percent discount. This is available for new reservations of three days or longer in one of the eligible homes listed on the site through April 17. Use promo code SPRING5 at checkout. Website here. 503-297-4090 Starry Night Inn, Seaside. This one really is an outstanding set of prices. You get two nights for the total of $150 in the cabins portion of the lodging, or two nights in the Victorian home for $100 grand total. This does exclude spring break. 811 1st Ave, Seaside, Oregon. 503.738.7825. Website Open Nest Vacation Rentals. Third night free at various vacation homes in Pacific City valid through June 20. 1-877-549-2632 or 503-965-5776. 33105 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City, Oregon. Book online - www.shorepinerentals.com Happy Camp Vacation Rentals at Netarts. They feature numerous last-minute specials but you have to give them a call: (503) 842-5953. Netarts, Oregon. Website. Headlands Resort and Spa, Pacific City. The STAY IN package: Surprise the special person in your life with a romantic trip to the beach. This package starts with a bottle of bubbly waiting for you in your room. Dont want to leave the lodge? No problem. Use your lodge credit to relax with a massage or facial treatment in the spa at Tidepools, dine fireside on ocean-to-table cuisine at Meridian or shop at the lodge gift shop and pantry. Daily lodge credit of $150 to be used in Tidepools Spa and Wellness, Meridian Restaurant and Bar, Pantry, and gift shops. 33000 Cape Kiwanda Drive, Pacific City, Oregon. 888-965-7001. Website. Rockaway Beach Resort. The north Oregon coast oceanfront spot is running a special that involves $175 for one or two nights, Three or more nights are $150 per night. All prices will also have tax tacked on. Rockaway Beach, Oregon. Website. Cavalier Condos in Gleneden Beach. Through March 15: Buy three nights get the fourth free. From April 1 - June 30: you can also buy three nights and get the fourth one for nothing. Gleneden Beach, Oregon. Website. 541-764-2352. A1 Beach Rentals, Lincoln City. The Gleneden Beach home of Kristys Cottage is the featured special. Stay two nights and get the third free. Through March 23. Lincoln City, Oregon. 1 (503)-232-5984. www.a1beachrentals.com. Agate Beach Best Western. Spring rates and an awesome pool for kids. Visit the site for the rates that match your dates. 15% off those if paid and booked in advance (restrictions apply- see website for details). Newport, Oregon. Website. (541) 574-2205. Sweet Home Vacation Rentals Yachats. Book two or more night and get the third night free. Valid for new reservations only - excludes holidays and spring break. Through May 23: when making your reservation, use coupon code NIGHTFREE. Yachats, Oregon. (800) 519-0437. Sweet Home website. More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on BeachConnection.net All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright BeachConnection.net Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Cody Johnson has gone from last-minute replacement to RodeoHouston superstar. The Huntsville native, who grew up in a rural community outside of Lake Livingston called Sebastopol, made his third appearance Friday night. It comes on the heels of new album "Ain't Nothin' to It," which debuted in January at No. 1 on Billboard's Top Country Albums chart. Johnson was an impromptu replacement in 2017 for Old Dominion. He returned in 2018 for an even bigger crowd. This year, they asked him to write and record a new RodeoHouston theme song called "Welcome to the Show." COJO: Cody Johnson talks new album and returning to RodeoHouston In similarly dramatic fashion, another Texas performer subbed in 1983 for an ailing Eddie Rabbitt. His name was George Strait. And he went on to become known as the king of RodeoHouston. Johnson could follow the same path. He's a commanding, confident performer and always seems alternately excited and humbled to be onstage. "I hope y'all are as ready as I am tonight," he told the crowd of 73,009. A large tattoo covered most of his right hand. Cody Johnson RodeoHouston superstar "With You I Am" "Noise" "Ride with Me" "Fenceposts" "Wild as You" "Cowboy Like Me" "Me and My Kind" "Long Haired Country Boy" (Charlie Daniels Band) "Doubt Me Now" "Y'all People" "On My Way to You" "Dear Rodeo" See More Collapse He immediately went up on several of the stage's five star points for country power ballad kickoff "With You I Am" and new song "Noise." It was a move he repeated throughout the set. He's one of the best when it comes to making use of the rotating stage without actually jumping into the dirt. His voice was even better than the last two times: strong and rich, with a throaty, raspy growl. He dedicated the sweet "Fenceposts" to his wife and daughters. LEGENDARY: Selena's 'Amor Prohibido' was released 25 years ago Johnson acknowledged police officers, firefighters, border patrol, the military and Jesus Christ before "Cowboy Like Me." It's something he said he does it at every show. "I don't care who you voted for. I don't care if you're left, right or center," he said. "We're all Americans." Cue the roars from the crowd. "Nothin' on You" was a song about loving a woman's naked body. He dedicated "Doubt Me Now" to the "haters" who didn't think he would make it outside of Texas. "It's been ten years of trying, ten years of blood, sweat and tears to get to this moment tonight," he said. The song "Y'all People" is an ode to Johnson's fans, known as the CoJo Nation. But current single "On My Way to You," his most successful to date, was just as fitting a tribute: "Every fork in the road It was all worth the while When I finally saw your smile Every highway, every heartbreak Every mountain, every mile ..." Johnson recalled his days as a bull rider during the emotional "Dear Rodeo" before riding off on a horse. His riding days may be done, but he'll always be a cowboy. Joey Guerra writes about music and pop culture for the Houston Chronicle. He will be writing about every single RodeoHouston concert. Follow him on Twitter. Send him news tips at joey.guerra@chron.com. NEWS WHEN YOU NEED IT: Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message | Sign up for breaking news alerts delivered to your email here. The United States is prepared to test a conventional ground-launched missile amid its withdrawal from the Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, Pentagon spokesperson Lt. Col. Michelle Baldanza said on Friday, UrduPoint reported citing Sputnik. "In the unlikely event Russia returns to full and verifiable compliance before the end of the six month period, we will rescind our suspension and planned withdrawal from the Treaty. But absent such a change in Russia's conduct, our decision to withdraw from the Treaty will stand, and the Treaty will end," Baldanza said. "We must be prepared for this eventuality. Our preparations along these lines include plans to test a conventional ground-launched missile." According to recent media reports, Washington is planning to test missiles, previously banned under the INF treaty, later this year. New cruise missiles may be deployed within some 18 months, according to reports . Two US strategic bombers B-52H Stratofortress arrived at the Fairford air base in the UK. Aircraft DRYER91 and DRYER92 took off from the Barksdale air base in Louisiana and landed in the morning at a British airfield, MilRadar reports. In addition, over the past two days, three more American B-52 bomber with the callsign STRAY81, STRAY82, STRAY83 and one B-52H with the call sign CLIP91 were sent to the UK. Here is a Guest Blog from a long-established thought-leader and telecom expert Von Bedekian, Co-founder & CRO of VisibilityOne. Consider the way corporate communications worked a mere decade ago each component was a separate entity, and when you looked at the system as a whole, it sometimes felt held together by digital duct tape. Desk phones used standalone voicemail systems, and maybe they forwarded to cell phones. Email applications were isolated from chat or the phone network. Launching to video conferencing was basically impossible. Remoting a desktop into a conference room didnt smoothly exist, and sharing a screen often entailed workers making a screencap and emailing it over. Other features such as supplementary contact information and calendar info all existed individually. Since then, most corporate workplaces have gradually begun turning to solutions that brought that all together, and the idea of Unified Collaboration and Communication (UCC) is something that can transform the workplace. But as giants like Microsoft, Cisco, and Google have moved into this space, what does the future hold for it? Perhaps the most critical starting point is understanding the importance of UCC as of today. There is no question that smart UCC integration maximizes efficiency and accommodates modern workplace needs. Similarly, there is no question that some companies are still using legacy communication systems, and those will suffocate under the weight of inefficiency if they havent already drowned out of business. Thus, its clear that a consolidated and integrated system one where all the components work together seamlessly and organically rather than the stitched-together Franken-tech of legacy platforms is needed for organizations of all sizes. For large corporations, this simply requires movement from the CTO down. Once that decision has been made, its all about execution. But small and medium businesses, as well as non-profits, face a bigger uphill challenge, all while battling against superior equipped competitors or increasing customer demands on response time and availability. This becomes a catch-22: UCCs can maximize efficiency and increase profits, but achieving that requires an investment all its own. So how do we make UCC technology of today readily available? And where will that point the UCC industry in the future? The answer, it seems, lies in the cloud. From UCC To UCaaS Cloud-based UCC (also known as Unified Communications as a Service, or UCaaS) can help smaller organizations get on board with a modern system without the need for an infrastructure overhaul; in fact, it UCaaS provides essentially the same feature range as hardware-based UCC. The biggest change in UCC has been the way the product is consumed; UCAAS as opposed to ownership, says Mike Conlon, Head of Mitel Communications. But outside of that most of the features have stayed the same over the last several years. Once that threshold has been cleared, though, theres a lot more to be excited about and those next-stage early adopters will have a transformative advantage as innovative features become the norm. These include: AI Natural Language: Virtual agents and operators currently work in pre-programmed replies while AI builds upon its understanding of user intake. The next evolution of this is using AI to create responses with natural language usage. The result is an improvement in both service delivery and customer experience. Digital WorkPlace: UCaaSs evolution means greater steps towards connecting the traditional office environment and DeskLess enterprise workers. As more and more people work remotely part-time or even full-time, UCaaS is turning into a necessity for the enterprise. Common Operating Platforms: Corporate silos between departments have always been an impediment to efficiency. Decades ago, these were physically divided departments, and now the challenge is digital. Bridging the communication silos for departments from Security Teams to Emergency Response to other critical personnel creates better information sharing and true collaboration. Self-Serve Service Delivery: With a single-source system such as UCaaS, the AI optimizing management and resources maximizes the potential for uniform and frictionless experiences. This service automation ensures that the system continuously gets better, evolving as the company grows and expands. Because UCaaS consolidates information from many different areas, synchronizing them and flattening the elements involved, a new level of process automation can be enabled. The result is a new standard for process efficiency, and many tasks will thus be completed with self-service rather than any human interaction. One of the industrys leading innovators for this is BluIP; their development team is nimble and has the foresight to bring to market relevant and compelling solutions for the forward-thinking enterprise. Self service at a human level without any human interaction will be the norm and expected outcome, says Armen Martirosyan, Co-founder & CEO of BluIP. All of this stems from the idea of unified communications. In fact, ten years ago, everyday employees may have thought it impossible to combine their desk phone, email, desktop applications, office conference room, and webcam into a single streamlined solution. But that reality has arrived and become so nimble that it can operate on a cloud level, opening the door to mass adoption. The most exciting part? Now that UCaas has made this technology available widely, just imagine the innovations waiting to happen in a more efficient, more communicative, and more accessible workplace. It came 19 months after the disaster, but at long last the Texas Senate has approved some significant state funds for the victims of Tropical Storm Harvey. The House of Representatives should support this move so that the money can be released as soon as possible, maybe even this summer. The Senate appropriated $3 billion for Harvey reconstruction as part of a larger $6 billion supplemental budget bill. Almost a third of the Harvey funds $900 million will go to school districts that were hit hard by the disaster. The Senate passed the bill unanimously, with 19 Republicans and 12 Democrats. All of the Republicans are conservative, given the current nature of Texas politics, and they deserve credit for ignoring criticism from hard-right groups that they are being irresponsible with tax dollars. Michael Quinn Sullivan, head of the influential group Empower Texans, even accused the Senate of going on a spending spree. Thats something you can say from the outside, especially when you rely on talking points that sound good in fund-raising letters, but the view is different from inside the Legislature. Lawmakers see the real need from disasters like Harvey and realize they have to so something to help these affected areas. Im hearing outside people say were spending too much money, said Sen. Larry Taylor, R-Friendswood. This is a very responsible budget from what Im looking at. Another point worth noting is that the Legislature is finally planning to tap into the so-called Rainy Day Fund, which currently has more than $12 billion. The state needs to have some money set aside for emergencies, and disasters like Harvey should qualify. The Senate bill would take $4 billion from the fund, though it would build up again over the next two-year budget cycle with revenues from oil and gas taxes. That industry is thriving in Texas and should churn out lots of revenue before the Legislature meets again in regular session, in 2021. The ideal size of the Rainy Day Fund is a legitimate point of debate for lawmakers, but something around $10 billion seems reasonable. A smaller amount might be insufficient in a real emergency, but it shouldnt grow too large while real needs are unmet. The Senate bill appears to find a good balance, and we hope the House has similar views. If both chambers agree, the budget bill must still be signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott. Whatever the final decision looks like, it must contain significant aid for Harvey victims and not just in Houston but here, too. State and federal aid will never completely cover the damage from Harvey, but more of it will help people and businesses start paying taxes again instead of receiving them. Changes are underway at Indian River Medical Center in Vero Beach, Fla., after Cleveland Clinic acquired the hospital in early January, according to local USA Today affiliate TCPalm. One of Cleveland Clinic's top priorities since taking over the hospital has been restructuring operations in Indian River's emergency department. Long wait times have been a source of problems for the ED. In various attempts to ease the problem, Indian River has hired four different physician groups over the past seven years. "One of the early priorities that's going on right now is the evaluation of all aspects of the emergency department," Wayne Hockmeyer, PhD, board chairman of Indian River, told the publication. "And it's a high priority for leadership [at] Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital and that will be part of an assessment going forward. There's a major focus on the emergency department and its operations and its efficiency." Nashville, Tenn.-based Envision Healthcare was the lastest physician group hired to staff Indian River's ED in February 2018. Cleveland Clinic's acquisition of the hospital hasn't changed the Envision partnership, according to TCPalm. North Carolina Treasurer Dale Folwell and the State Health Plan said on March 13 that they have agreed to pay rural hospitals an additional $52 million under a controversial project that will change how providers are reimbursed. The Clear Pricing Project will shift the state's health plan, which covers more than 720,000 employees, from a commercial-based payment model to a reference-based government pricing model that reimburses providers based on a percentage above what Medicare pays. Rather than negotiating rates in private, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, the plan's administrator, will pay set amounts for services. Effective Jan. 1, 2020, healthcare providers that treat State Health Plan members will be paid at Medicare rates plus an average of 82 percent, according to a news release. The release states that new adjustments will result in a 20 percent increase in payments to rural providers compared to the original proposal. "Our approach has always been to help rural hospitals be in a position to provide vital health services in outlying communities. However, the problems with rural hospitals' finances existed long before I became state treasurer," said Mr. Folwell. "Our original CPP-payment models provided substantial support for hospitals in rural communities. After many meetings with healthcare providers across the state, the team at the State Health Plan was able to expand the number of rural facilities included in the initiative, allowing increased reimbursement rates that further support their profitability and independence." Mr. Folwell estimates the plan will save taxpayers about $258 million and State Health Plan members about $57 million. But hospitals and providers have resisted the plan, arguing the change could cause a domino effect with insurance companies pushing for locked-in rates as well. North Carolina lawmakers are also fighting the reimbursement cuts. More articles on healthcare finance: 'Medicare for All' would reduce hospital operating margins by more than 20 percent, analysis finds 8 Vermont hospitals report negative operating margins in FY 2018, review shows The top financial pressures facing healthcare organizations: 5 leaders discuss Rod Hochman, MD, serves as president and CEO of Providence St. Joseph Health. On April 2nd, Dr. Hochman will speak at Becker's Hospital Review 10th Annual Meeting. As part of an ongoing series, Becker's is talking to healthcare leaders who plan to speak at the conference, which will take place April 1-4, 2019 in Chicago. To learn more about the conference and Dr. Hochman's session, click here. Question: What do innovators/entrepreneurs from outside healthcare need to better understand about hospital and health system leaders? Rod Hochman: Providence St. Joseph Health partners with many leading U.S. innovators and we consistently surprise them with our openness for disruptive strategies that promise to improve patient care. We look to embrace new, patient-centric endeavors with traditional and non-traditional partners who will help us find effective solutions. For example, when seven major health care systems, including ours, banded together to form Civica Rx, a not-for-profit generic drug company to address rising drug prices and shortages, we signaled that the times were ripe for change. These type of collaborations interest us and ultimately improve American healthcare. Q: What one strategic initiative will demand the most of your time and energy in 2019? RH: Improving quality and reducing costs are always strategic priorities, especially as essential programs such as Medicaid are at risk. This year we are also turning our attention to the upstream, social factors that affect health. We recognize that succeeding with population health and other initiatives that improve lives requires us to seek out effective community partnerships that deal with large-scale societal issues impacting health, such as mental illness, housing, transportation and education. These may not be the traditional domains of health systems, but addressing these concerns is the new imperative. Q: Can you share some praise with us about people you work with? What does greatness look like to you when it comes to your team? RH: I work with a great team. Im surrounded by some of the best minds in health care today. But what makes them great isnt their education or career success. Its that theyre good people who operate from a deep place of humility, compassion and forgiveness, which are so lacking in the business world and in American culture today. We have an audacious vision of health for a better world, and it starts with how we serve and treat one another, especially those who have less than others. Thats what greatness looks like to me. A chancery court judge in Delaware is set to decide whether Anthem or Cigna is owed money in a breakup battle that ensued in the two years after their failed merger, according to the CT Mirror. A trial over whether Anthem or Cigna owes the other billions after the botched merger attempt began Feb. 25. While Cigna argues it's owed more than $16 billion as the injured party, Anthem claims it's owed $20 billion because Cigna sabotaged the deal. Delaware Chancery Court Judge Travis Laster is tasked with deciding which party wins the case and how much the other insurer may owe. Larry Hamermesh, executive director of the University of Pennsylvania's Institute for Law and Economics in Philadelphia, told the CT Mirror that Anthem and Cigna are both big enough to weather a payment, should they need to. More articles on payers: Minnesota senate passes bill to continue subsidies for health insurers Humana settles pregnancy discrimination lawsuit Humana debuts bundled payment model for spinal fusions CDC Director Robert Redfield, MD, said the Democratic Republic of Congo's ongoing Ebola outbreak may not be contained for another year, according to STAT. "We cannot underestimate this outbreak. We need a long-term strategy," Dr. Redfield told STAT March 15. The warning comes one day after Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, PhD, Director-General of the World Health Organization, said the outbreak may end within six months. "I would love to see this outbreak end in six months, like my friend Tedros continues to hope for," Dr. Redfield said. "But I think the reality, the practical reality, is this is going to be a longer road. And we need to start planning for it." STAT noted long-term efforts to control Ebola could be hindered by a lack of funding. Agencies working to end the outbreak said about $148 million is needed to continue response activities through July. The organizations have raised just 60 percent of this target, according to Dr. Tedros. As of March 13, the WHO reported 932 confirmed and probable Ebola infections linked to Congo's outbreak, including 587 deaths. More articles on clinical leadership & infection control: Delaying flu shots until October could prevent 22K illnesses, study finds Flu shot, spray OK for 2019-20 season, American Academy of Pediatrics says Surgical outcomes vary across health systems with top hospitals, study finds Surgical outcomes vary significantly across health systems that include some of the country's highest-rated hospitals, according to a study published March 13 in JAMA Surgery. For the study, researchers examined Medicare data on 87 hospitals linked to one of 16 health systems that include a U.S. News & World Report Honor Roll hospital. Researchers looked at surgical records for 143,174 surgery patients who had either a colectomy, coronary artery bypass grafting or hip replacement between 2005-14, Reuters reports. Honor Roll hospitals did not consistently demonstrate better surgical outcomes than affiliated hospitals. For example, they had lower failure to rescue rates than affiliated hospitals (13.1 percent compared to 15.1 percent) but higher complication rates (22.1 percent compared to 18 percent). At some health systems, affiliated hospitals' failure to rescue rates differed from Honor Roll hospitals' by as little as 1.1-fold. However, in other systems the figures differed by as much as 4.9-fold. Complication rates had similar variations across health systems. "Just because a hospital is affiliated with a really, really reputable hospital doesn't mean that it is delivering care on par with that Honor Roll hospital," Kyle Sheetz, MD, lead author and research fellow at the University of Michigan's Center for Healthcare Outcomes and Policy in Ann Arbor, told Reuters. More articles on clinical leadership & infection control: Karen Hoffmann is the 2019 APIC president WHO: Congo's Ebola outbreak could end within 6 months Delaying flu shots until October could prevent 22K illnesses, study finds The number of blood donations continues to drop in the U.S., which has some federal health officials concerned about the implications, according to a KIRO 7 news report. Across the country, about 60 percent of regular donors are over the age of 40 and 45 percent of them are over 50 years old. As a result, health officials are concerned that the key donor pool is beginning to age out. Bloodworks Northwest CEO and President James AuBuchon, MD, will head to Capitol Hill next week with federal health officials to discuss what he calls a growing national problem. "We are concerned that this could grow to a point that people don't have blood when they need it," Dr. AuBuchon told KIRO 7. "We need 900 donors a day and we are not getting that." To help address the problem, Bloodworks has launched a mobile app in an effort to attract millennial donors. The app helps users locate blood banks nearby on their smartphones. Here are three spine and neurosurgeons making headlines. The Humanologi Foundation, founded by spine surgeon Steven M. Reich, MD, is partnering with the American Medical Student Association on several initiatives to address physician burnout. Dover, Del.-based Bayhealth Neurosurgery welcomed neurosurgeon Dawn Tartaglione, DO, as its new medical director. Penn Medicine opened a new $10 million spine center at Pennsylvania Hospital, both based in Philadelphia. William Welch, MD, will serve as medical director. Belfast Lord Mayor Deirdre Hargey joined Dr Saleem Tareen from the Belfast Islamic Centre, and Karen Sethuraman, the Lord Mayors Chaplain, to open a book of condolence for Christchurch at City Hall yesterday The head of Belfast Islamic Centre has described the outpouring of sympathy in the wake of the terrorist attack in New Zealand as "a great comfort". Chairman Dr Saleem Tareen was speaking after signing a book of condolence that has been opened at Belfast City Hall to allow people to pay their respects following the Christchurch massacre. Read More Lord Mayor Deirdre Hargey signed the book along with Dr Tareen and representatives of all the local political parties here. Dr Tareen said Belfast's Muslim population was praying for the people of Christchurch following the "cowardly, horrific, Islamophobic terrorist attack". He added: "Our hearts go out to the families of those who have passed away and we are praying for those injured. "The rest of the community will be very much affected by what has happened and they are going through a difficult time. "For the small number of people living in non-Islamic countries like Northern Ireland, this shocking incident will make them worry for their safety. I'm very grateful to Belfast's Lord Mayor that for opening this book of condolences. "It is very encouraging to see the support from various church and political leaders. It is important for local Muslims to see this solidarity from the people of Belfast as it encourages them that their contributions here are valued." Ms Hargey said: "It's important as a city that we show our solidarity with the Muslim community in Belfast who face Islamophobia and racism and to let them know we say no to that." Jean Hegarty at the Bloody Sunday memorial at Free Derry Corner. Her brother Kevin McElhinney was killed, aged 17, in the Army massacre The sister of a teenage shop worker shot from behind as he crawled away from soldiers on Bloody Sunday has said she would like to meet his killer. Jean Hegarty's brother Kevin McElhinney was 17 at the time. After learning no paratroopers will be prosecuted over his death, Ms Hegarty (70) said she would ask his killer why he did it. She added: "I would love to know what was going through his mind when he pulled that trigger. What motivation he had to do that. "I mean, if the opportunity presented itself I think I would take it and ask those questions." Ms Hegarty was among the relatives of the 13 killed and 15 injured, who were informed that just one of 17 soldiers would be charged over his involvement in Bloody Sunday. She said that while she was disappointed for her brother, and the others who did not receive news of a charge in their loved ones' cases, she was happy for those who got "good news". Ms Hegarty said she felt she needed to immediately approach some of those families "to assure them they had our complete support" after they were briefed by prosecutors at the City Hotel in Londonderry on Thursday. She said: "There's a feeling of unity that would transcend personal feelings (of disappointment)." Forty-seven years ago on her journey home from Canada, where she was living when Kevin was killed, Ms Hegarty said she had wanted to kill the soldier responsible for shooting her brother. But the sight of her "beaten" father at his son's funeral quickly removed her desire for revenge, she added. Asked if she believes the soldier concerned with her brother's death has remorse, she said: "I would hope so." She added: "Kevin's dead. He resides up in the cemetery. A prosecution or no prosecution, nothing is actually going to change the salient fact that Kevin lost his life." The partner of a woman who has been missing since Tuesday has described the family's torment following her disappearance. Taxi driver Adam Muckle sobbed as he described his concerns for the safety of his partner of 19 years, Nicola Steele. "It's just devastating," he said. "I've barely slept a wink or eaten since she disappeared, I don't know what to think, my head's all over the place," he said. "I'm so worried about her, I just want her to get in touch to say she's okay." Police have been scouring hotels in Belfast after CCTV footage showed her leaving the Europa Bus Centre in Belfast city centre. She was filmed walking along Victoria Street at about 12.23pm on Tuesday, but hasn't been seen since. The sighting came after her car was discovered parked outside a bus station in Bangor. Her purse and mobile phone were inside the vehicle. Mr Muckle revealed that 47-year-old Nicola, from Millisle, Co Down, has been suffering from depression but said her disappearance was completely unexpected. The couple's daughter, 16-year-old Abbie, is the last person known to have seen her. "She hasn't been feeling the best for a wee while," he continued. "A few weeks ago she was doing the ironing and she decided she needed to go out and get her head showered. "She was walking down the road and moved in to let a car past and fell into a ditch. "She lost consciousness for a while and the ditch was so deep she couldn't get out and she was stuck there until someone who was out walking their dog discovered her the next day. "She was in hospital for four days and had gone back to work on Monday. "I rang her on the Tuesday morning to make sure she was up to take our daughter to school. "When she dropped Abbie off, she just said she would see her later. "We would normally talk a couple of times a day and I rang her later and she said she was going to Tesco. "I wasn't able to get her again and as the day went on we started to get worried, so we rang the police." He added: "Nicola is very quiet, she only really socialises with her family. "She's from Antrim originally and would visit her family up there most weekends. "We lost a relative through depression in December and she was very good to his wife. "I can't believe we're going through this now, there's so many questions in my head, I just don't know. "Abbie is holding up as well as can be expected, she's being so brave and still going to school as she's doing exams, but it's so frustrating not knowing where she is." Nicola, a care assistant, is described as being about 5ft 6in tall with dirty fair hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing blue jeans, a peach coloured top and a three-quarter-length black quilted jacket. Inspector Johnny Francey said: 47 year old Nicola is currently missing and was last seen at around 10:30am on Tuesday 12th March in the Millisle area. Nicola is believed to have been driving a blue Ford car when she was first reported missing but the car has since been recovered in Bangor Town Centre and there have a number of unconfirmed sightings of Nicola in the Greater Belfast area over the past few days. Nicola is described as around 55 tall, of heavy build, with dirty fair shoulder length hair and blue eyes and was wearing either a black padded coat or Paisley black and white designed waterproof jacket with a peach coloured top and blue jeans. I would ask Nicola or anyone who knows of her whereabouts to contact officers in Newtownards on 101 quoting reference number 987 12/03/19. Police have appealed for information following the armed robbery in Co Londonderry. The driver of a cash-in-transit van has been robbed at gunpoint by two men in Co Londonderry. The incident happened outside a filling station on Clooney Road in Greysteel at around midday on Saturday. Two men, one said to be armed with a handgun, got away with a cash box containing money. Both suspects fled on foot towards houses on the opposite side of the road, in the St Columbas Walk area. The driver of the van was not injured but has been left shaken by the frightening ordeal. Sinn Fein councillor Dermot Nicholl said: I condemn this reprehensible attack in which a sum of money was stolen at gun-point from a cash-in-transit van at a filling station in Greysteel. Thankfully no one was injured, however, this must have been a terrifying ideal for the driver of the van and others in the area at that time. I would urge anyone with any information to bring it forward to the PSNI. Detective Sergeant Wallace said: "This was a brazen and despicable act that was carried out at a busy time when there would have been a number of customers in the forecourt of the premises. "There would also have been a steady flow of traffic travelling through Greysteel at the time, and I want to appeal to anyone who was in the area, or who saw two males matching the descriptions of the suspects in the moments after the robbery to call us. "I am also asking any drivers who were in the area, particularly those who may have captured footage on their dash cams to call police on the non emergency number 101, quoting reference 511 of 16/03/19." Information can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Charlotte Reat leaves court in tears after the sentencing of her mothers murderer The heartbroken daughter of Jayne Toal Reat had to be held back from confronting her mother's killer as he was jailed for at least 17 years yesterday. Charlotte Reat reacted as Nathan Ward (20) was told it will be 2034 before he is even considered for release. Ward stabbed Ms Reat to death in a frenzied knife attack in December 2017 after she had caught him sexually assaulting Charlotte. Imposing the minimum tariff on Ward at Craigavon Crown Court yesterday, Judge Patrick Lynch QC told him: "I emphasise again that this is a minimum term - when, or even if, you are ever safe to be released will be a matter to be determined by the parole commissioners, not before 2034." The judge said that by murdering Ms Reat and attempting to murder her daughter, Ward had robbed Charlotte of her life and prospects. He added: "Nothing this court or you can ever do will even begin to undo the damage you have caused her through your own uncontrolled hatreds and passions." As Ward was being led to the cells to begin his life sentence, a weeping Charlotte jumped over the three foot wooden partition separating the public gallery from the body of the court but was held back by four uniformed police officers. She shouted at Ward "I will kill you", before being comforted by friends and relatives who had packed the public gallery. Ward, wearing a black t-shirt and blue tracksuit bottoms, showed no emotion. At an earlier hearing Ward had admitted the murder of Ms Reat, a 43-year-old psychiatric nurse; the attempted murder of Charlotte and wounding his father Joseph Tweedie with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm on Christmas Day 2017. It can now be revealed that Ward also confessed to three counts of sexually assaulting Charlotte: twice on December 9 after she celebrated her 21st birthday and again on Christmas Day. It was after the sexual assault at 5.17am on Christmas morning, which was interrupted by Jayne Reat, that Ward launched his murderous attack with a nine inch combat knife that had been bought online. The court previously heard that while on bail for a separate offence, Ward had moved into his father's home at Mornington Lane in Lisburn. Yesterday Judge Lynch said he appeared "to have had an unhealthy sexual obsession with Charlotte, not reciprocated, which, in part at any rate, underlies the tragic events giving rise to the Christmas day murder". Describing a normal Christmas Eve, the judge said Charlotte, the deceased and Mr Tweedie had been out then went home and to bed at around 1am. The sleeping arrangements were that Ms Reat and her daughter were in one bedroom with Mr Tweedie and Ward in the other. But at around 5am, Ward went into the women's bedroom, dressed in boxer shorts, armed with the knife, and began to sexually assault the sleeping Charlotte. Ms Reat woke up and said "what the f***," waking Charlotte up, the judge said. Judge Lynch said the "inference to be drawn is that she had seen the defendant in the room and if not specifically aware that he was abusing her daughter, knew that something was seriously amiss". The court heard how Ward then pounced on Ms Reat, who tried to protect herself. A statement from her daughter said: "She let the most painful scream out. Nathan was stabbing her and stabbing her, but I did not see the knife." Charlotte described how Ward then went for her. She said: "I tried to defend myself by lying on my back, kicking and punching him. He grabbed my hands. I didn't know he had a knife. He got me on the side of the face." Awoken by the screaming, Mr Tweedie ran into the room to intervene. Ward then turned the knife on his father, and he suffered cuts to the forehead and stomach. Mr Tweedie had said: "I was able to overpower Nathan and grab the knife from him and threw it to the ground and he calmed down, just sort of changed and said 'it wasn't me daddy I don't know what I'm doing, I don't know what I'm doing, it's not me. I don't know what I'm doing'." Charlotte fled the room but shortly "returned to where her mortally wounded mother was". The judge said: "Charlotte described how she hugged and hugged her mother and tried so hard to bring her back." Ms Reat had been stabbed seven times but according to the pathology report, two wounds which severed her aorta, the main blood vessel in the body, and her spinal cord "caused her very rapid death". Turning to Charlotte's injuries, the judge said that she had suffered multiple cuts to her head and face which required stitching. He later said: "It is clear that this young woman has been scarred, both physically and mentally for life." Mr Tweedie also suffered cuts to his head and abdomen and Judge Lynch said that in his victim impact report, Mr Tweedie describes how he "feels guilty for bringing the defendant into the home and thereby inadvertently and indirectly bringing about Jayne's death". "He has lost his partner, son and indeed Charlotte, who blames him, in part, for what happened," the judge said. Ward himself had suffered cuts to his hands as he had tried to use the broken blade to carry on the attack. Turning to the police enquiry, Judge Lynch told the court that during questioning, Ward told detectives he had been in "what he described as a psychotic episode". He had been drinking Jack Daniels in his room, thinking about the "horrific relationship" he had with Ms Reat and his father and "thinking over what he was originally supposed to do which was 'obviously kill 'em'". He confessed he had gone to the bedroom with the knife "not knowing if he was going to kill Ms Reat or Joseph Tweedie" but to "test himself" to see if he still had "that anger inside him or if he still had the urge to...go through with murder". Angry at the way Ms Reat supposedly treated him, Ward had admitted that he had been thinking about killing her for some six months and had bought two machetes, the murder weapon, duct tape, handcuffs and a Soviet gas mask. "He stated he was originally going to use the handcuffs, as most of his hatred was directed at Jayne and he was going to use the items for trapping her and torturing her with either the knife or the machete," the judge continued. Ward told police that when Ms Reat had woken up and challenged him, he "just snapped". The judge told Ward that the murder was aggravated by the fact that his victim had been asleep and vulnerable in her own home and the gratuitous violence used in the attacks and that the killing was carried out "to defeat the ends of justice" by seeking to kill the two witnesses to his sexual assault of Charlotte. In mitigation, the judge said that Ward was 19 at the time of the murder, had expressed remorse and was due some credit for pleading guilty, although he added that Ward "had no option but to accept them". Jailing Ward for at least 17 years, Judge Lynch told the killer the sentence would have been 20 years if he had been convicted after a trial. The judge also imposed 12 years for the attempted murder of Charlotte, five years for wounding his father and five years for the three sexual assaults, with all those sentences to be served concurrently to the life term. Ward will also be put on the sexual offences notification requirements list for an indefinite period, the court heard. A security alert in Co Fermanagh has ended after a controlled explosion was carried out on a suspicious object. A number of homes were evacuated after the object was found on Main Street in Derrylin on Saturday morning. A suspicious object has been found on Main Street in Derrylin. Chief Inspector Graham Dodds said: Following the discovery of a suspicious object at Main Street, Derrylin, a number of roads were closed as police and ATO personnel examined it. "A controlled explosion was carried out and the object has been declared as nothing untoward. All roads have now re-opened and I would like to thank the local community for their patience as we worked to keep everyone safe. A chef from Crumlin who sparked a police chase whilst his eight-month-old daughter was in the back seat of his BMW car was handed a suspended sentence yesterday A chef from Crumlin who sparked a police chase whilst his eight-month-old daughter was in the back seat of his BMW car was handed a suspended sentence yesterday. Barry McGovern, from Canning Grove, admitted four driving offences arising from an incident on roads in south Belfast last October. He was handed an 18-month sentence, which was suspended for three years, and was also banned from driving for two years and fined 1,800. Belfast Crown Court heard that around 4.25pm on October 3, 2018, police tried to stop a BMW car driven by McGovern (30) in the Holylands area of Belfast. Smoke was coming from the exhaust and as police approached the vehicle, McGovern was on his phone but ended the call. He then said, "how are you doing, officer?" to a policeman before speeding from the scene. A police chase in and around the Lisburn Road ensued, and during this pursuit McGovern - already a banned driver - drove dangerously on several roads in built-up areas, the court heard. This included jumping red lights when pedestrians were using the crossing, a near collision with a police vehicle, speeding and driving on the wrong side of the road. He was eventually boxed in, and when officers approached the car and took possession of the car keys, they noticed the baby girl in the back seat. McGovern was arrested and admitted several offences including dangerous driving and driving whilst disqualified. Judge Paul Ramsey was told by Crown barrister Philip Henry that McGovern's criminal record included 40 previous motoring offences, that his driving on the day in question put other road users at risk and he highlighted the fact the baby was in the car. Defence barrister Mark Farrell noted that whilst his client was "caught red-handed... he didn't try and wriggle his way out of it" and had admitted what he did. He said the BMW was his client's partner's car, and pointed out there were no injuries or damage to any other vehicles, saying that when McGovern saw police "he panicked and made the very foolish and reckless decision" to drive off. After listening to both the Crown and defence, Judge Ramsey said McGovern's criminal record "makes for depressing reading", but that he was prepared to give him "one last chance". The DUP has moved to squash speculation Northern Ireland could be offered extra cash by Theresa May's government in a bid to break the Brexit impasse. Deputy leader Nigel Dodds MP said on Friday talks between the party and senior cabinet ministers had been "constructive" and that the Government was focused on resolving the Irish backstop issue. Read More He met with chancellor Philip Hammond, chief whip Julian Smith and Environment Secretary Michael Gove. The presence of Mr Hammond prompted speculation that Northern Ireland could be given a further funding boost in exchange for the DUP supporting the Prime Minister's Brexit deal. However, Mr Dodds said "cash" was not discussed during the meetings. Securing the support of the Northern Irish MPs is viewed as crucial to the government's hopes of winning the third vote on the Brexit withdrawal agreement next week. On Saturday, a DUP spokesman said: We are in discussions with the Government to ensure Northern Ireland is not separated out from the rest of the United Kingdom as we leave the European Union. Contrary to some reports we are not discussing cash. "There are still issues to be addressed in our discussions. The DUP sceured more than 1billion in extra funding for the province in exchange for DUP MP's support in the Commons as part of a confidence and supply arrangement struck after the 2017 general election That agreement comes to an end in June. The Daily Telegraph reports ministers are "increasingly optimistic" that the DUP can be persuaded to back the deal. The newspaper reports the negotiations are focused on winning legal reassurances that Northern Ireland would not diverge from the rest of the UK, in the event that the Irish backstop kicked in. Meanwhile, Sinn Fein have said the current agreement is the only way to avoid a "crash-out Brexit". Sinn Fein MP Chris Hazzard said: "The reckless pursuit of a fantasy Brexit by the DUP and their Tory allies is totally out of step with the public. "The DUP now need to take stock, reflect and listen to the genuine fears of the business community, the farming sector and many others who are worried about the dire consequences of a crash-out Brexit. "The DUP is engaging in party politicking in their negotiations with the Tories over Brexit. "They need to realise once and for all that there is only one deal on the table; the Withdrawal Agreement and the backstop it contains. That is the only way to avoid a disastrous crash-out Brexit." Reece Leeman was killed in the Kyle Street area of the Sydenham estate The family of a young east Belfast man found murdered in the early hours of yesterday morning are said to be going through unimaginable grief. The victim, named locally as Reece Leeman (21), was killed in the Kyle Street area of the Sydenham estate. While the background to the incident remains unclear, it is believed that Mr Leeman was stabbed after an altercation in the area. Two men have been arrested. The suspects remained in custody yesterday for questioning. One shocked neighbour, who was first on the scene, said she woke up to the sound of men screaming and shouting. The streets around the murder scene were sealed off as a major forensic investigation got underway at an end-of-terrace house on the street. Mr Leeman is survived by his parents Matthew and Gail and sister Melissa. The young man is related to Glentoran legend Paul Leeman and also Tommy Leeman, who played for the Glens and Rangers in the 1980s. He was a past pupil of Ashfield Boys High School and Belfast Metropolitan College. Messages of sympathy have flooded in for the Leeman family following the murder. A source close to the family said they were going through unimaginable grief. Paul Maghie, Mr Leemans friend since childhood, told the Belfast Telegraph that he was completely shattered by the loss of Reece, known as Leeper to his friends, who he called his brother for life. He added: Reece was an absolute gentleman and my best mate, who has been taken from us all. On behalf of all the lads I send condolences to Reeces family. This has broke us all in half. Another close friend, Ryan Ball, added: Reece was one of my best mates, an absolute gentleman who never failed to put a smile on your face every time you seen him. He was well liked and respected in the community and will be deeply missed by his friends and family. Officers and members of the Blues and Royals Flute Band in Sydenham, where Mr Leeman was a former member, said that they were absolutely devastated to hear of his death. Reece was a wonderful young man and a great member to our band. Sleep tight good friend, taken too soon, the band posted on social media. He was also remembered by colleagues at Sirocco Works FC, where he was a former player. Everyone at Sirocco would like to pass on our deepest sympathy to the Leeman family on the loss of their son Reece. Reece was a former player at Sirocco and was fondly thought of by the management and players at the club. Thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time, a spokesperson said. Mr Leeman is the third person to be murdered in the greater east Belfast area this year and the second this week. The body of grandmother Alice Morrow (53) was discovered in her flat at Whincroft Way on the Braniel estate last Sunday, while community worker Ian Ogle (45), was stabbed 11 times in the back in Cluan Place on January 27. East Belfast DUP councillor George Dorrian said that the level of violence in Belfast this year has been unbelievable. Its worrying, youre seeing a level of violence thats just shocking, he said. Councillor Dorrian said that the DUP would be liaising with the police about domestic violence and knife crime following a number of recent incidents. One of the things wed be looking to do is to meet with the police to find out what practical steps can be taken to challenge this type of activity, he said. Youve seen three murders potentially using knives and one attempted within the last five weeks or so, this is a growing concern. It looks like it is a growing problem here, certainly among young people knives are almost becoming acceptable. Ulster Unionist Councillor Sonia Copeland said: This is truly dreadful news, which I know will be the cause of real concern in the local community. I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the dead mans family and friends at what will be an awful time for them. I know that the police are treating this death as a murder investigation, and I urge anyone who can help the police get to the bottom of what has happened to come forward immediately. Alliance Councillor David Armitage said Mr Leemans death had shocked the local community. East Belfast has seen a number of deaths in recent weeks, which have caused great distress here, he said. It is important the police establish the circumstances of this mans death. PUP Councillor Dr John Kyle said that the levels of violence and loss of life in east Belfast were deeply concerning. Dr Kyle added: Police, politicians, community leaders and statutory agencies need to recognise their responsibilities and work together to urgently address these issues. Northern Ireland-based healthcare company Connected Health is to create 200 new jobs in the province Northern Ireland-based healthcare company Connected Health is to create 200 new jobs in the province. The bulk of the posts will be located in Belfast and north Down and will focus on full and part-time homecare, training and support roles, The firm, which has its headquarters at Boucher Road in Belfast, currently employs around 450 people in its Northern Ireland operations and more than a hundred in the Republic of Ireland. It provides homecare to clients, and also offers healthcare training programmes through its Connected Academy in west Belfast. Chairman Brian O'Connor said the recruitment process for new staff would begin immediately. "The highest possible standards of training and development will be provided to all new recruits to continue to promote opportunity, aspiration and career progression throughout our organisation," he said. A jury took less than an hour to unanimously clear a Tyrone man of the rape and sexual assaults of a 15-year-old relative in a case in which police acknowledged failing to appropriately investigate the allegations A jury took less than an hour to unanimously clear a Tyrone man of the rape and sexual assaults of a 15-year-old relative in a case in which police acknowledged failing to appropriately investigate the allegations. Aged in his 20s, the defendant, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the complainant, consistently denied all charges from the outset. During a two-week trial, Dungannon Crown Court heard the complainant was at a family party in a bar on August 6, 2016, and the defendant was also there. She claimed he sexually assaulted her twice in the bar, and again in the car journey home, later raping her after she went to bed. The incident in the back of the car was alleged to have occurred while she sat on the defendant's lap as space was tight. Her father and uncle were beside them when she claimed the defendant "kissed her for about a minute and sexually assaulted her for several minutes" despite the close proximity of the other men. On arriving at her home, the defendant decided to stay over, which wasn't unusual. It was claimed he entered her room, got into bed and raped her. Some months later she disclosed to her mother what allegedly occurred, and shortly afterwards the family moved from the area. The wider family unit split in two in the aftermath. Under cross-examination the complainant denied seeking attention and rejected the incident was a fantasy. The defendant was adamant that no offences occurred in the bar, the car or the home. Asked if he believed the complainant was "some sort of fantasist", the defendant recalled a previous incident when she accused a male of touching her, with her mother falling out with neighbours as a result. The investigating officer accepted she "should have done more", particularly in respect of securing the complainant's mobile phone, which was never obtained. The policewoman acknowledged that cases have been dropped due to content found on phones of those who accuse others of rape. As the trial drew to a close, Judge Stephen Fowler QC reminded the jury of the case details, warning no inference should be drawn from the time taken to disclose what allegedly occurred. He recounted the complainant approaching a male school friend, known to be supportive, with "something to tell him". Claiming to be too upset, she messaged him later, disclosing "she had been raped". She also told her mother what she alleged the defendant did. Judge Fowler said the jury must consider if the defendant had been disadvantaged by the way the police investigation was conducted. He said the investigation lacked "full scrutiny... due to the handling of specific aspects". The judge said police "accepted failures to follow all lines of enquiry. There was failure to request and check the complainant's phone". The jury retired yesterday, returning after just 50 minutes, clearing the defendant of all charges. His family and friends seated in the public gallery embraced each other and wept with relief. A west Belfast man arrested after being identified on Facebook as the culprit who robbed a local shop at gunpoint was handed an eight-year sentence yesterday. A west Belfast man arrested after being identified on Facebook as the culprit who robbed a local shop at gunpoint was handed an eight-year sentence yesterday. Gerard Bracken had taken heroin before making an "impulsive decision" to rob the Mace store on Caffrey Avenue last February, armed with a gun and hammer. The 23-year-old, from Fruithill Park, was told he will spend four years of the sentence in prison, followed by four years on licence when he is released from jail. Belfast Crown Court heard that the young shop assistant was left terrified by the ordeal, had to leave her job as a result and now suffers panic attacks. Bracken targeted the store at 9.25pm on February 27 last year. Wearing a woollen hat and sunglasses, he produced a shotgun and demanded the shop assistant hand over cash from the till. He then walked behind the counter and ordered her to fill a bag with cigarettes and tobacco, and became agitated that she wasn't going quickly enough. The weapon, which could have been an imitation firearm, was pointed at her the whole time, and she also noticed Bracken had a hammer in his pocket. Her ordeal ended when two customers came in. The store manager posted on Facebook an image from CCTV of the robber with an appeal for help identifying him, prompting responses with a name and address. Police went to Bracken's home, arrested him, and during a search found cigarettes, tobacco and cash. Whilst Bracken initially told them a friend had "stashed" the items at his house, he was subsequently picked out in an identification procedure and admitted robbery, possession of a firearm or imitation firearm, and possession of a hammer with intent to commit robbery. He later told Probation he had been taking heroin prior to the robbery, that he went to his friend's house for more drugs, that he had a pellet gun and that he made an "impulsive decision to rob the local shop". A defence barrister spoke of Bracken's "very difficult background" and addiction issues. As he sentenced Bracken to eight years, Judge Ramsey told him that the ordeal he put the shop assistant through was "truly terrible", adding: "I accept this was impulsive and an action which you now bitterly regret." He said it gave him "no pleasure to impose a sentence on a young man with addiction issues". A Sinn Fein politician linked to a soldier's killing has been criticised after he supported a march protesting about the lack of Bloody Sunday prosecutions. Shelley Gilfillan, a niece of part-time UDR man Hugh 'Lexie' Cummings, criticised Gerry McMonagle after he promoted the protest held in Co Donegal on Thursday night. Mr Cummings was shot by the IRA as he sat in his car in Strabane's Main Street in June 1982. The 39-year-old Castlederg man died instantly. In 2012 DUP MP Jim Shannon used parliamentary privilege to accuse Mr McMonagle, a former mayor in Donegal, of the murder. A week after the killing Mr McMonagle was arrested and remanded in custody until he was brought to trial a year later. He was released because papers were not properly countersigned and was promptly rearrested as he left court. After being released for a second time Mr McMonagle travelled over the border, moving to Donegal where he became a Sinn Fein councillor and later mayor of Letterkenny. In 2017 Chief Constable George Hamilton said Mr McMonagle was not wanted for interview by police about Mr Cummings' murder. But the veteran republican's remarks around the Bloody Sunday prosecutions decision have sparked anger. Thirteen civil rights protesters were shot dead by paratroopers in Londonderry on January 30, 1972. A 14th victim died months later. On Thursday it was announced that one paratrooper, 'Soldier F', will face prosecution for the murders of James Wray and William McKinney and the attempted murders of Joseph Friel, Michael Quinn, Joe Mahon and Patrick O'Donnell on Bloody Sunday. Within hours of the decision being announced, Mr McMonagle posted on Facebook that he was "devastated" for the families of those who died. "Our thoughts, prayers and continued support for their quest for justice remains as strong as ever," he wrote. He then urged anyone "who feels the same way" to attend the solidarity protest, which was held in Letterkenny town centre. Ms Gilfillan, who earlier this month spoke of her anger at the prospect of soldiers being prosecuted for Bloody Sunday, said yesterday Mr McMonagle was showing "sheer audacity" by supporting the protest. "He has a brass neck. How dare he take that view. There's a bit of cheek there," she said. "It's the case of justice for one and nothing for the other. Where's my justice? Where's the justice for my uncle?" She added: "We have a law that suits the one side and not the other side. How dare he stand up there and say things like that." Recalling what happened to her uncle, she added: "Lexie was coming out of a shop, in a law-abiding job. He was just walking the street to his car." Ms Gilfillan said it was slap in the face that veterans were being pursued through the courts while terrorists had escaped justice. "I really truly think innocent victims have had enough," she added. She said her "heart went out" to Soldier F and his family, adding: "I'm flabbergasted that a soldier is being charged." Ms Gilfillan claimed Mr McMonagle had "heaped" further pain onto relatives of IRA victims - including her - by calling for the prosecution of veterans. She added: "It never goes away that hurt, it's always there. I go to bed with it and I wake up with it. It never goes away and he's rubbing salt into the wounds." Sinn Fein did not respond to a request for comment. DUP deputy leader Nigel Dodds has appeared to call for under fire Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley to be replaced. The North Belfast MP, in an interview with Politics Home, said the Northern Ireland Office (NIO) has been a "dysfunctional department for quite some time" and called for "strong leadership" at NIO. Read More Mrs Bradley faced calls to resign after she told the Commons that killings carried out by the security forces "were not crimes", but rather actions of those "fulfilling their duties in a dignified and appropriate way". She later clarified her comments before making an apology the following day. Mr Dodds, who was involved in discussions with senior cabinets ministers on Brexit on Friday, said: "I think that Karen has, perhaps, not been as out there in terms of getting across the people in Northern Ireland, taking to them, meeting with groups and all the rest of it, as some of her predecessors. "I know that, however, Brexit and the votes here has meant that maybe she hasn't had as much time. But her basic policy approach has been flawed in the sense that she has decided that Northern Ireland could just stand still, leave it to the civil servants. "For that, that's a glaring failure on her part. She has not taken a grip and shown the leadership that she could have." Expand Close Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley (Stefan Rousseau/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley (Stefan Rousseau/PA) Asked if a change of leadership at the NIO was needed, he replied: I think the Government needs to have a change of leadership in a number of departments, yes, across the board." The Belfast Telegraph has approached the DUP to clarify if Mr Dodds is calling for Mrs Bradley to be replaced as Northern Ireland Secretary. Mr Dodds said that the past week has been "one of the most incredible weeks in my experience in politics", as chaos reigns in Parliament with Theresa May struggling to obtain a consensus on her Brext withdrawal agreement. "Its obviously a very febrile atmosphere, things are very tense, unpredictable, he said. MPs from across the parties are finding it quite mentally and emotionally draining. These are very big decisions. For all the criticisms of MPs, these decisions are weighing on them very heavily. The DUP's leader at Westminster said he was "conscious of the pressure" on MPs to break the Brexit stalemate. "Of course, within the Westminster bubble, you feel that pressure very intensely. "The DUP MPs have long experience of that kind of pressure and are very connected to their constituents and their constituencies back home. So, we have learnt over many years of experiences of how to balance that. "But we are conscious of our wider responsibilities to the nation. But we believe that that is complementary to our responsibilities to Northern Ireland." A position advertised as "the best job in the world" - which went viral, attracting thousands of applications from across the globe - has been given to a Co Antrim woman. Aimee Johnston (26) has swapped the rain and wind for the white sands and sunshine of the Maldives, where she has taken up the post of the islands' "barefoot bookseller". The job in the luxury eco resort of Soneva Fushi in the exotic Indian Ocean destination was advertised online last year by hotel library curator company Ultimate Library. Applications were invited from people with "a passion for books, the ability to engage guests of all ages", and who could entertain children with storytelling and host creative writing courses for guests. The company said: "Our search for a 'barefoot bookseller' went viral and Aimee was chosen from thousands of applicants who applied for the job of a lifetime from all over the world last summer. "We suspect more people were attracted to the 'unrivalled fringe benefits' than the 'derisory pay'." Aimee, who has been given a sabbatical from her job in the publicity department of Penguin Random House Ireland to take up the post, heard that she had landed it at the start of the year. She said: "I'm over the Moon to be Ultimate Library and Soneva Fushi's next barefoot bookseller. "It's one thing to wake up in paradise every day, but to get to work in one of the world's most beautiful bookshops? That's a dream come true. "I saw the original job posting on Book Brunch, a publishing industry magazine. "I applied quite quickly, but pretty soon the job posting went viral! There were several interview stages and some creative tasks set along the way. I found out I got the job in early January this year and it was a huge surprise. I kept rechecking the email to make sure I hadn't imagined it. "I've been in the bookshop since the beginning of March and I've loved every minute of it so far. "The bookshop itself is gorgeous and our titles are carefully curated by Ultimate Library to meet the reading needs of the resort's guests. "We have a wide range of fiction and non-fiction titles, a great selection of books on art and well-being, as well as an impressive collection on wildlife and nature, which speaks to the immediate environment of the Maldives." The bookshop took months of planning and construction and is built in a gorgeous dome-like structure next to the water. Guests of the resort are now able to buy the perfect accompaniment for their holidays - the ultimate reading recommendation personally selected by resident bookseller Aimee. Aimee said books have always been a very big part of her life and that her parents instilled a love of reading in her from a young age. She added: "At one stage my mum got in touch with Libraries NI and they started sending a library van out to our area. I remember how amazing it was, to have so many books to choose from. "I was also very lucky in secondary school to have the most incredible English teachers. They discussed fiction with such passion; it sparked a desire in me to study English literature in college." Aimee's dream job is for just temporary, after which she will return to her work in Dublin. She added: "I'll be here for three months to work as the barefoot bookseller in the pop-up barefoot bookshop and in that time I'll try to see as much of the Maldives as I can. "After that, I am very much remaining in the book world. "I'll be returning to Dublin and jumping right back into my role as Press officer with Penguin Random House Ireland." Aimee's adventure in the Maldives can be followed on her blog at barefootbookseller.com and on Instagram. A pedestrian in his 60s remains in hospital after being involved in a road traffic collision in Maghera. The incident happened on the Coleraine Road shortly before midnight on Monday March 11. Police have appealed for information. Inspector Brown said: "I would appeal to anyone who witnessed this incident or who has dash-cam footage that could assist with our enquiries, to contact police on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 1530 11/03/19. Reece Leeman was killed in the Kyle Street area of the Sydenham estate Detectives investigating the murder of 21-year-old east Belfast man Reece Leeman have confirmed he was stabbed following an altercation at a property on Kyle Street. Mr Leeman was found collapsed on Connsbrook Drive after being seriously assaulted on Friday morning. Read More Detective Inspector Joanne Harris said: My thoughts today are very much with Reece's family and friends who are trying to come to terms with their sudden loss. "We received a report at 1:50am on Friday that a male - which we now know was Reece - had been stabbed and subsequently collapsed on Connsbrook Drive. "Police and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service attended and Reece was taken to hospital where he tragically died from his injuries." Expand Close Reece Leeman. Credit: PSNI / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Reece Leeman. Credit: PSNI A 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and he remains in custody assisting police with enquiries. Police have been granted an additional 36 hours to question the 28-year-old. An 18-year-old man, who had been arrested on suspicion of murder, was released unconditionally. The teenager was then re-arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary and robbery. He has been released pending a report to the Public Prosecution. DI Harris said: "Our investigations continue today and I am following a number of lines of enquiry. "At this time, however, I can say we are not seeking anyone else in relation to Reece's death but I do want to make a number of specific appeals in a bid to piece together Reece's movements in the final hours before his untimely death. "I know Reece had gone to an address on Kyle Street with another male sometime before 1:50am. Some type of altercation occurred inside the house when Reece was there. He was subsequently discovered collapsed on the street on Connsbrook Drive with stab wounds. "I want to appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time. Did you witness the assault on Connsbrook Drive? Did you see Reece leave the house in Kyle Street? "I also want to ask anyone who saw Reece, or who spoke with him the day before, or during the early hours of the Friday morning to get in touch with us. I would also ask anyone who saw Reece with another male during these times, if they know his movements prior to Reece's death, to contact us. No matter how insignificant you think the information you have is, please contact us. Your information could be key to our investigation. If you can help our investigation, please call detectives on the non-emergency number 101 quoting reference 51 of 15/03/19. Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime. Controversial journalist and political commentator Lionel Shriver has said that if the IRA are to be forgiven for their murders throughout the Troubles, then British soldiers must also be forgiven. Writing in The Spectator, the American-born author, who spent a lot of her career living and working in Belfast, hit out at the Good Friday Agreement release of paramilitary prisoners as a "glaring moral hazard". She said all their victims had to "suck it up. Sorry to be so brutal, but the families of Bloody Sunday's victims should have to suck it up too". "Some deaths count more than others," she wrote. "While all bereavements haunt on an individual level, publicly only a small, subsection of fatalities is exalted as especially terrible, unbearable and unjust." She continued: "The Parachute Regiment's killings of 14 protesters on Bloody Sunday may still stir the grief of loved ones 47 years on, but you couldn't say these losses have been ignored." One former paratrooper, soldier F, is facing prosecution for two murders and four attempted murders. Ms Shriver said the authorities should never have contemplated prosecution in the first place. She added: "The problem is the Good Friday Agreement. In 1998, the aspect of that agreement I found hardest to swallow was its wholesale release of paramilitary prisoners. "I thought the concession constituted a glaring moral hazard: whack your wife with a rolling pin in the heat of an argument and you're put away for life; intentionally slaughter your fellows in cold blood, and as long as it's for a 'cause' you'll be back home in time for tea. "I realise that only the inclusion of prisoner release made the agreement possible, but the moral compromise was enormous and showed no respect for the feelings of the families who'd lost relatives to terrorism." Traffic restrictions and diversions will operate in Belfast city centre as the annual St Patricks Day carnival parade and concert takes place on Sunday, March 17. Linenhall Street will be closed to traffic from 7am to 1.30pm on Sunday while on street parking will be unavailable until after 2pm on Linenhall Street, Chichester Street, High Street and Donegall Street down to Writers Square. Read More Motorists can expect some disruption along the parade route with rolling diversions from 12 noon through to 2pm on roads and streets that intersect with the route. The carnival procession, featuring participants from all corners of Belfast, will leave Linenhall Street at 12.30pm. It will make its way into Donegall Square North, continue along Chichester Street, turning left up Victoria Street and left again at High Street, up Bridge Street onto Donegall Street, finishing at Writers Square at approximately 1.30pm. Extreme caution should be exercised when driving in and around the Custom House Square, Queens Square and Victoria Street areas due to the large volume of pedestrians attending the free concert featuring The Vengaboys, Catherine McGrath and Ryan Sheridan from 1.30pm-4pm Translink will operate a normal Sunday service throughout the day. Some diversionary pick up and drop off points may occur between 12pm-2pm. Please see translink.co.uk and the display screens at bus stops for updated information. Patrons attending the event are advised to use public transport. They can also use onstreet parking and city centre car parks. This includes blue badge holders. Drivers should also be aware that the SPAR Craic 10K event will see up to 2,000 runners leaving Belfast City Hall at 9am on Sunday, taking in the Gaeltacht Quarter before finishing at Ormeau Park. A Traffic Management System and signage will be in place and motorists should follow directions of Police, any signage and exercise caution along the route. Delays or diversions can be expected. Broadcasting standards watchdog OFCOM has rapped popular local radio station Downtown/Cool FM for its reporting of the charging of a suspect in the brutal murder of Colin Horner. The 35-year-old was shot dead by a lone gunman outside a Sainsbury's supermarket in Bangor in May 2017. On June 17, 2018, Cool FM's 4pm bulletin reported the charging of a suspect in the murder. The presenter said: "Our top story this hour: The man who killed Colin Horner in front of his three-year-old son has been charged with murder. "The 29-year-old Newtownards man shot Mr Horner outside a supermarket in Bangor last month. Charges also include possession of a firearm and ammunition with an intent to endanger life. He's due to appear in court tomorrow." A complaint was made to OFCOM that the report breached section 5.1 of the Code, which says that "News, in whatever form, must be reported with due accuracy...". In its determination, OFCOM said: "At the time of the broadcast this was not correct because it had not been established in a court of law that '[t]he man' referred to in the news bulletin had indeed killed Colin Horner. "Rather, at that time, an individual had been charged but was still to appear in court to face those charges. It was, therefore, inaccurate for the presenter to state that '[t]he man who killed Colin Horner... has been charged with murder'." In its defence, Downtown/Cool FM said the presenter had edited an earlier correct script and that it was "concerned, surprised and disappointed" at the error. It also said "the fact of a shooting and therefore a murder appears not to be in question and thus the requirement for accuracy under the Code [was] met (as it [was] beyond question that a shooting did occur and a person was murdered)". The radio station accepted that, at the time of the broadcast, whether or not the suspect was guilty "was not certain and as such the report should not have been edited from the initial version which was entirely correct". The unnamed presenter, a novice journalist covering while the news team was attending an external event, accepted that they had made a mistake and apologised. Downtown/Cool FM also told OFCOM that, as a result of this incident, it was "circulating a legal refresher to all news staff/news freelancers and presenters, and [was] planning further legal training" for its news teams. TUV leader Jim Allister will use today's annual conference to tell delegates his party offers the only straightforward, straight talking and resolute protection for the Union. Party members will gather at The Royal Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone, and Mr Allister said May's local government elections will give voters the chance to show their dissatisfaction with the state of politics in Northern Ireland. Focusing on two key issues - the impasse at Stormont and the fallout from Brexit - Mr Allister said the country is living through "interesting times, both in terms of wider politics and within unionism itself". "Stormont has been a shambles," he said ahead of his leader's address. "The TUV stated from the outset that the design of Stormont was never going to work and we have been proved right. "There is no point patching it back together in the same format, to have it fall apart again. "There needs to be a voluntary coalition with parties who have an appetite to make it work. Sinn Fein don't want to make it work. "Unless there's a root and branch change, we might as well tear the place down." He will tell delegates Mrs May's Brexit deal is a "clear betrayal of the Union". He said: "Anyone backing the backstop isn't voting for Brexit, they're voting for an exit from the UK. "No one committed to staying in the Uunion could possibly even think of backing Mrs May's deal. "Add to that we have scandals like RHI and holiday junkets and there is a lot of unease within unionism. It has been dragged down to the low level of Sinn Fein, where they now see fit to preach on standards of public life." Ahead of May's local government elections, Mr Allister said they will be a litmus test for the mood of unionists. "With the TUV you will get no unwanted sleaze. We are straightforward, straight talking and resolute on the future of the union. I suspect many people are unhappy at how things are turning out thanks to who they voted for before. "We go into the local government elections looking to build from the bottom up. Obviously we want to increase our representation. If we don't do that, we're not building." Mr Allister's speech will also touch on the decision to prosecute a former paratrooper over the events of Bloody Sunday. "We're unhappy at the current hierarchy of victims, with the Bloody Sunday families at the top of the tree," he said. "In 1972 we also had Bloody Friday, but IRA murders don't count it seems when it comes to dealing with the past. In Londonderry in 1972 there were dozens of IRA killings and not a single charge brought for the murder of soldiers, policemen and civilians. "All our thoughts will be with the families of innocent victims of terrorism who never saw a public inquiry into the death of their loved ones and certainly never saw anyone prosecuted for the murder of their family members, nor enhanced compensation. Maybe it's time for all those thousands of silent people who have been victims of all terrorism to start their own 'Me Too' campaign." A "young team of heroes" stopped a fellow passenger attempting to jump overboard on a Belfast-bound ferry. Members of the Forth Bridges Accordion Band travelling on the 11.30am crossing from Cairnryan to Belfast on Saturday prevented the female passenger from jumping overboard. Posting on the group's Facebook page, a spokesperson for the band said: "Were just off the ferry from Cairnryan Scotland to Belfast Northern Ireland. "The quick response from our band member Declan saved the life of a middle aged woman who was about to throw herself overboard, he grabbed her as the young girls ran for assistance. "Declan, Keevay, Korri, Myryn & Hayley we are so proud of you all. Well done to our young team of heroes." Declan Chirray (17), from Falkirk, told the Belfast Telegraph he was travelling with the band to take part in a St Patrick's Day Parade in Enniskillen on Sunday. He said the incident happened when he went outside for a smoke with his Gran when he saw the incident unfolding. "I just sprinted over and grabbed her. It was shocking," he said. OUR BAND HEROES. Were just off the ferry from Cairnryan Scotland to Belfast Northern Ireland. The quick response from... Posted by Forth Bridges Accordion Band on Saturday, March 16, 2019 A Stenaline spokesman told the Belfast Telegraph: Stena Line can confirm that on the 11.30am crossing from Cairnryan-Belfast this morning (16th March) a female passenger attempted to jump overboard but was restrained by other passengers, who alerted crew to the incident. "The passenger was reunited with her two travelling companions and the group were given a cabin for the remainder of their return journey to Cairnryan. "A Stena Line crew member stayed with the group during the remainder of the return crossing. The group disembarked the ship on arrival in Cairnryan. Stena Line would like to extend its thanks to the passengers who helped to prevent a potentially critical situation developing. If you are distressed the Samaritans can be contacted 24 hours a day by calling 116 123. Marchers gathered in Glasgows George Square for a Stand up to Racism rally (Victoria Mitchell/PA) Hundreds of people have taken part in an anti-racism march and rally in Glasgow. The Stand up to Racism (SUTR) event saw crowds gather in the citys George Square before a march through the streets. A minutes silence was also held at 11am to remember those killed in the New Zealand terror attacks. A statement from Unite the Union Scotland said: All of us who campaign and work for a world free from fear, hatred and bigotry must redouble our efforts. The current political climate has created an environment where racism has once again reared its ugly head. Solidarity to all those marching in the anti-racism demo in George Square, Glasgow today. Come join us 11am! An injury to one is an injury to all. TSSA will always oppose racism and fascism in any form and we are proud to be there today. pic.twitter.com/DjbLD9iI7i TSSA Scotland (@TSSAScotland) March 16, 2019 It continued: There has been a rise in far-right, racist and xenophobic attitudes which has been given oxygen by some of the current debates surrounding the decision by the British public to leave the European Union. There is an urgent need for all decent-thinking people to come together under a banner of democracy and equality to stand against those that try to divide us. The message is clear; lets stand together to promote tolerance, acceptance and equality. Unite pledges to play our full part. Expand Close Anti-racism campaigners march through the streets of Glasgow (Victoria Mitchell/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Anti-racism campaigners march through the streets of Glasgow (Victoria Mitchell/PA) Some of the crowd chanted we stand with Christchurch as they entered the square. A number of SUTR rallies were held around the UK. There was a heavy police presence as the Glasgow event got under way. A petition, backed by Glasgow Fight Racism Fight Imperialism (FRFI) and Glasgow Palestine Human Rights Campaign, had been launched online ahead of the rally to try and prevent the Confederation of Friends of Israel in Scotland (COFIS) and Glasgow Friends of Israel (GFI) attending. A number of counter-protesters were kept at the other side of George Square, away from the main rally. Contracts with ferry operators to provide extra services to cope with a no-deal Brexit could cost tens of millions more if there is a delay to the UKs departure from the European Union. The controversial process put in place by Chris Graylings Department for Transport has already seen a row over the collapse of a contract with Seaborne Freight, which had no ferries, and a 33 million out-of-court settlement with Eurotunnel. There is now the prospect of further expense after MPs voted to instruct Theresa May to seek an extension to Article 50, potentially delaying Brexit beyond March 29. Expand Close Transport Secretary Chris Grayling has been under fire over his handling of the ferry contracts (John Stillwell/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Transport Secretary Chris Grayling has been under fire over his handling of the ferry contracts (John Stillwell/PA) The cost of a delay to Brexit could amount to 28 million, the Financial Times reported. Brittany Ferries, which has contracts worth 46.6 million under the deal, said the terms included fair and proportionate compensation in a deal scenario, taking account of the significant preparatory work and concomitant costs incurred by Brittany Ferries. It said the firm had already incurred a series of direct costs and resource commitments and the new schedule cannot now be changed, even as an extension to Article 50 seems likely. Additional staff had been employed and more than 20,000 existing bookings had been changed, the firm noted. A Department for Transport spokesman said: As the Prime Minister has made clear, the legal default in UK and EU law remains that the UK will leave the EU without a deal unless something else is agreed. Leaving with a deal is still our priority, but as a responsible Government it is only right that we push on with contingency measures, that will ensure critical goods such as medicines can continue to enter the UK. The Government has always been clear that any extra capacity that is not used, can be sold back to the market. A National Audit Office memorandum on the contracts, which seek to ensure that medicines and other vital supplies can continue to reach the UK in the event of a no-deal Brexit causing chaos on the short Dover-Calais and Channel Tunnel routes, noted the potential problems caused by a delay to Article 50. If the date of the UKs Exit from the EU changes, and there is still the possibility of a no-deal EU Exit, the Department will need to decide how it wishes to proceed with the contracts, the NAO said in February. There is no provision for the start date to be delayed, but the Department may seek to negotiate this with the operators. Flower rest at a road block, as a Police officer stands guard near the Linwood mosque, site of one of the mass shootings at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, Saturday, March 16, 2019. (AP Photo/Mark Baker) The online messaging forum where Christchurch terrorist suspect Brenton Tarrant announced his intentions has been labelled a hotbed for far-right radicalisation, as users continue to praise the massacre of 49 people at two mosques on Friday. Tarrant posted links to a manifesto on the messaging site 8chan early on Friday morning, promising to carry out an attack which he subsequently livestreamed on Facebook. Its been a long ride you are all top blokes, he added. Home Secretary Sajid Javid told mainstream social media companies enough is enough after footage of the terrorist attack in Christchurch spread rapidly across the networks. But, more than 12 hours after the shooting, 8chan users were still praising Tarrant for his murder spree. A Home Office spokesman said: It is illegal to publish terrorist propaganda online and we condemn in the strongest of terms the role that these kinds of forums have played in promoting violent extremism and allowing this sickening content to be shared. He was very active not just in the mainstream social media platforms but especially also on some of the fringe platforms that serve as hotbeds for far-right radicalisation, said Julia Ebner, a research fellow at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, a London-based think tank focused on finding solutions to extremism and polarisation. Unfortunately, I have to say we almost expected something like this to happen after monitoring these groups and these online spaces the hate speech dynamic has really accelerated and weve seen calls for violence on a lot of these alternative tech platforms. 8chan was created as a forum for free speech by an American programmer in 2013, making all users anonymous by default and allowing them to create new message boards on different topics. But the focus on free speech and believing the establishment is too politically correct means sites like 8chan, 4chan and other fringe platforms have become safe-havens and self-reinforcing radicalisation bubbles, said Ms Ebner. As such, they have been the subject of continued controversy in recent years as extremists flocked to the platforms for their lack of regulations, leading to praise for US school shootings and terrorist attacks, as well as discussion of conspiracy theories, racist memes, harassment campaigns, co-ordinated hacking and images of child sexual abuse. More than 12 hours after the shooting in Christchurch, hundreds of 8chan users had commented in a mega thread about the massacre, started by someone who posted Tarrants video, a list of highlights, a swastika and picture of alt-right icon Pepe the Frog. Both Tarrants manifesto and video were littered with in-jokes and references to 8chan discussions, according to far-right extremism expert Robert Evans, writing on investigative journalism website Bellingcat. They are meant to distract attention from his more honest points, and to draw the attention of his real intended audience, wrote Evans, describing Tarrants attack as inspirational terrorism. The Christchurch shooter put a Sonnenrad on his body armor, a well known neo Nazi symbol. https://t.co/23kTTqy46U Robert Evans (The Only Robert Evans) (@IwriteOK) March 15, 2019 And among the racist, Islamophobic, homophobic and anti-semitic comments in the celebratory megathread on 8chan, some users described Tarrant as an accelerationist for a race war. The only way he could have done this better is if hed claimed he was doing it to get revenge for a gay lover killed in the Pulse nightclub shooting, wrote one user, referring to the 2016 Florida massacre perpetrated by an American who swore allegiance to Islamic State. Muslims are going to shoot up churches across the west in the coming weeks, they added. Damian Collins, the Tory chairman of the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee, said: These platforms are being used to disseminate the vilest content and make people aware of its existence. We should look at companies like that and say for them to allow their platforms to be used in that way is damaging to society. Its hugely harmful. He called for a regulator to have the power to sanction companies allowing the spread of harmful content, adding that the ultimate sanction would be to bar them from the internet. The Government has been clear that tech companies need to act more quickly to remove terrorist content online and that should include blocking access to the platforms that promote it, the Home Office spokesman added. The Government is expected to publish its Online Harms White Paper in the coming months as a precursor to legislation. The #Christchurch attacker studied the dynamics of polarisation, his main aim outlined in his manifesto was to exacerbate divisions to provoke radical change, demonstrating a #FinalRaceWar mentality often associated with #GreatReplacement ideologies #NewZealandShooting Julia Ebner (@julie_renbe) March 15, 2019 Facebook, YouTube and Twitter all condemned the attack, and said they were working to remove any affiliated content but the owners of 8chan did not respond to requests for comment. Ms Ebner said digital policy legislation could help in the long term, but mainstream platforms needed to make more effort to identify and remove violence-inciting images, as well as messages. More broader societal efforts are also needed to encourage a process of de-radicalisation, she added. In terms of the aims of the perpetrator, hes driving communities apart and thats very similar to what jihadists have been doing and really goes back to the heart of the strategy behind any terrorist attack, she said. He made it so explicit in his manifesto, he said he wants to provoke radical change through creating or worsening the existing divisions. So I think theres a big challenge for us in civil society to avoid that he reaches his goals. Parts of the UK have woken up to snow after an area of low pressure swept across the country. Expand Close Snow covered daffodils in Stanley, County Durham, the UK is to be battered by strong winds, rain and snow as an area of developing low pressure sweeps across the country. PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Snow covered daffodils in Stanley, County Durham, the UK is to be battered by strong winds, rain and snow as an area of developing low pressure sweeps across the country. A Met Office yellow warning for snow is in place until Saturday night for much of Scotland, Northern Ireland and the north east of England. Expand Close Snowy condition on the A1 near Alnwick, Northumberland, the UK is to be battered by strong winds, rain and snow as an area of developing low pressure sweeps across the country. PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Snowy condition on the A1 near Alnwick, Northumberland, the UK is to be battered by strong winds, rain and snow as an area of developing low pressure sweeps across the country. As much as 10cm of snow could fall on higher ground, according to forecasters. Expand Close Snow covered daffodils in Stanley, County Durham, the UK is to be battered by strong winds, rain and snow as an area of developing low pressure sweeps across the country. PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Snow covered daffodils in Stanley, County Durham, the UK is to be battered by strong winds, rain and snow as an area of developing low pressure sweeps across the country. Good morning UK! Strong winds & outbreaks of rain across much of the UK. Some heavy rain in the N&W, snow in parts of Scotland. Mainly dry but cloudy across the SE. Mild in the south, colder elsewhere. Weather warnings in place, pls check for your area: https://t.co/cQSfu1VDbo pic.twitter.com/2gFaT0HBlb Met Office (@metoffice) March 16, 2019 Expand Close (Owen Humphreys/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (Owen Humphreys/PA) Heavy snow fell in parts of Northumberland overnight covering part of the A1 at Alnwick. Expand Close (Owen Humphreys/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (Owen Humphreys/PA) Expand Close (Owen Humphreys/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (Owen Humphreys/PA) Expand Close (Owen Humphreys/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (Owen Humphreys/PA) Expand Close (Owen Humphreys/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (Owen Humphreys/PA) The worst of the wintry weather is expected to be over by Saturday evening with a more settled picture for Sunday. Expand Close Snow covered flowers in Stanley, County Durham, the UK is to be battered by strong winds, rain and snow as an area of developing low pressure sweeps across the country. PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Snow covered flowers in Stanley, County Durham, the UK is to be battered by strong winds, rain and snow as an area of developing low pressure sweeps across the country. Politicians will move heaven and earth to prevent the UK from leaving the European Union without a deal, Labours shadow chancellor said. John McDonnell said quite a number of MPs would be prepared to support a compromise deal with the guarantee it goes back to the people for a final say on Brexit. However no-deal was not a feasible option on the ballot paper, he said. Ahead of a speech in Gravesend, Kent, he told the Press Association Theresa Mays underlining of the legal default of the UK leaving without a deal on March 29 had led to this weeks rejection. He said: I think thats irritated MPs so much, thats why no-deal was voted out, and I know that was only an advisory motion but I think MPs would move heaven and earth to prevent a no-deal if she tried that again. He went on: People have looked over the edge, theyve taken the advice of Theresa Mays own Treasury department, theyve taken the advice of the Bank of England, every independent assessment of the consequence of no-deal, which is pretty catastrophic for our economy. Mr McDonnell was speaking ahead of one of a series of weekend meetings where he has been sharing Labours message on austerity. He said he had not noticed a dramatic change in peoples views since the 2016 referendum, but that the party was looking to back backbench proposals to give the public a say over a compromise deal agreed by Parliament. He said: We are working with Peter Kyle and Phil Wilson, they have their amendment, which was about going back to the people with whatever was agreed in parliament, so weve said we would support that if it comes back, and it may well be this week but it will be down to the tactics they want to pursue, because they will only push that when they think theyve got a realistic prospect of winning. But, he said, any final say must be on a credible deal. He went on: Theres no point putting Theresa Mays deal or something like that in my view because its not credible, its dangerous, it has to be a credible deal that we think would protect jobs and the economy, and I think thats what a majority of MPs would vote for, I dont think a majority would vote for something that would damage their constituents livelihoods. Mr McDonnell said he felt a referendum could be achieved in a relatively curtailed period of time, but that Brussels will not agree to a delay without a realistic plan. The electoral commission has said it could take months to organise a further referendum campaign and vote. Asked if he was concerned a significant delay could draw attention from the partys internal issues, such as the anti-Semitism allegations, said: No, the anti-Semitism thing is completely separate and we are keeping our focus on that. He added: Thats a separate issue that well deal with and nothing will distract us from it either. When he later addressed the room, Mr McDonnell ripped into the Conservatives austerity programme, which he said has left local government absolutely savaged. He said: After nine years of austerity, I dont believe there isnt a community around the country that hasnt been hit pretty hard. We just need to start transforming peoples lives very rapidly. He also slammed the arrogance of the Tories concerning their spring budget, which saw money pledged committed to combating the knife crime problem. He said: Its just become commonplace unfortunately, and then Philip Hammond in the spring statement offered 100 million to try and support local police hes cut 2.4 billion. A woman who lost her husband during Fridays mass shootings cries outside an information centre for families (AP) A four-year-old girl is among those fighting for their lives after the New Zealand mosque massacre. At least 49 people were killed in mass shootings at two mosques during midday prayers on Friday and dozens more were wounded, some critically. New Zealands prime minister Jacinda Arden has vowed to change the countrys gun laws in the wake of the shooting spree that stunned the world. Brenton Tarrant, 28, from Australia, appeared in court on Saturday charged with one count of murder and was remanded until April 5. Police said further charges were expected to follow. He appeared to have live-streamed the terror attack in Christchurch and outlined his anti-immigrant motives in a manifesto posted online. A search was under way at his residence in Dunedin on Saturday. The critically wounded four-year-old child was named as Elin by her uncle Sabri Daraghmeh, who told reporters in a phone call from Jordan on Saturday that she remains in the danger phase. What has happened in Christchurch is an extraordinary act of unprecedented violence. It has no place in New Zealand. Many of those affected will be members of our migrant communities New Zealand is their home they are us. Jacinda Ardern (@jacindaardern) March 15, 2019 Her father Waseem, 33, the brother of Mr Daraghmeh, is said to be in a stable condition. The Jordanian citizen of Palestinian origin is reported to have moved to New Zealand five years ago and described it as the safest place one could ever live in. On Saturday, Christchurch Hospital said 39 people remained in hospital, 11 of them in intensive care. Four people died en route to hospital. The majority of the patients are male aged 30 to 40, while two of them are boys aged two and 13, said Greg Robertson, chief of surgery at the hospital. The two-year-old boy was reported to be in stable condition, as was the 13-year-old. Twelve operating theatres worked through the night, said Mr Robertson. Many of those injured will need multiple returns to surgery. Of those killed in the massacre, 41 died at the Masjid Al Noor mosque on Deans Avenue in central Christchurch, seven were killed at the suburban Linwood Masjid Mosque, and one person died at Christchurch Hospital. A total of four people were arrested following the massacre one of whom was in possession of a firearm but with the intention of assisting police, and was released a short time later. New Zealand police commissioner Mike Bush said two of those in custody were arrested at a cordon, and that officers were working to establish whether they had had any involvement in the incident. Ms Arden said the primary perpetrator in the shootings had five guns and held a gun licence, adding: I can tell you one thing right now our gun laws will change. Expand Close (PA Graphics) Press Association Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (PA Graphics) In the video live-streamed by Tarrant, a man inside a mosque appears to say: Welcome brother, as a gunman approaches. A number of improvised explosive devices found on a vehicle after the shootings were defused by police. Mr Bush, who had earlier called the attack a very well-planned event, said the suspect was not known to police either in New Zealand or Australia. Expand Close An injured man is taken to hospital (AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp An injured man is taken to hospital (AP) Police urged all mosques across New Zealand to stay closed over the weekend for security reasons. British security sources said there were no apparent UK links to the attack. A 24-year-old man from Oldham, Greater Manchester, was arrested on Saturday after posting comments online supporting the slaughter, Greater Manchester Police said. Former Ukip party leader Nigel Farage joins the start of the first leg of March to Leave the European Union (Frank Augstein/AP) A group of protesters has gathered in Sunderland ahead of a 14-day march to London in a bid to avert perceived attempts to betray the public over Brexit. The March to Leave, which has been organised by the Leave Means Leave campaign, is being led by former Ukip leader Nigel Farage. Around 100 people assembled in Sunderland, the first city to vote in favour of exiting the European Union on the night of the 2016 referendum, in order to start the event. Some supporters were carrying flags bearing messages including leave means leave and storm Brexit. On our way to #MarchforLeave in Sunderland. Let's march onwards for Britain. pic.twitter.com/bv0qGx9Y3Z Andrea Jenkyns MP (@andreajenkyns) March 16, 2019 Mr Farage is expected the join the march including Kate Hoey and Andrea Jenkyns, the MPs for Vauxhall and Morley and Outwood respectively. They were joined by a group of counter-protesters, including from the anti-Brexit grassroots campaign Led By Donkeys. The march will make its way to Hartlepool on Saturday, a trip of around 20 miles, before proceeding on to Middlesbrough on Sunday. It will then stop off in towns including Pontefract, Doncaster and Wellingborough before arriving in London on March 29 the intended date of Brexit when a mass rally will take place in Parliament Square. A big Sunderland welcome to @Nigel_Farage (Billboard location: Pallion Rd, Sunderland) pic.twitter.com/zhmG0pwsvp Led By Donkeys (@ByDonkeys) March 16, 2019 Outlining the reasons for the peaceful protest, the marchs website states: It is now clear the Westminster elite are preparing to betray the will of the people over Brexit. To counter this, Leave Means Leave are undertaking a peaceful protest to demonstrate the depth and breadth of popular discontent with the way Brexit has been handled. It adds: Failing to deliver a true Brexit will permanently damage the British peoples faith in democracy. In announcing the march, Mr Farage said: All of us who want Britain to be a great country once again accept that we must be prepared to stand up for what we believe in and fight for our independence. Nigel Farage will lead a march from Sunderland to London in protest against attempts to betray the will of the people over Brexit. The March to Leave, which has been organised by the Leave Means Leave campaign, will begin on Saturday in the north-east city, the first to return a vote in favour of exiting the European Union on the night of the 2016 referendum. It will then stop off in towns including Hartlepool, Pontefract, Doncaster and Wellingborough before arriving in London on March 29, when a mass rally will take place in Parliament Square. .@Nigel_Farage: March 29th should be our independence day, but politicians are trying to stop Brexit. Parliament Square, 29th March will be a historic rally of Brexiteers to tell those in power not to betray Brexit. Be there.https://t.co/uH6QIKFSIg pic.twitter.com/4upKy5cUZy Britain Means Business (@BritMnsBusn) March 9, 2019 It is expected the march will be followed all the way by two advertising vans made by Led By Donkeys, a grass roots anti-Brexit campaign founded in January. The group says the vehicles will ensure marchers, onlookers and the rest of the nation are reminded of the contradictions, lies and hypocrisies that Nigel Farage has peddled throughout his campaign to ensure the United Kingdom leaves the European Union in the most disruptive and dangerous way possible. Outlining the reasons for the peaceful protest, the marchs website states: It is now clear the Westminster elite are preparing to betray the will of the people over Brexit. To counter this, Leave Means Leave are undertaking a peaceful protest to demonstrate the depth and breadth of popular discontent with the way Brexit has been handled. It adds: Failing to deliver a true Brexit will permanently damage the British peoples faith in democracy. Quick training session before the March To Leave tomorrow morning! pic.twitter.com/MAm6ABmpSq Nigel Farage (@Nigel_Farage) March 15, 2019 On Saturday, the march is expected to proceed from Sunderland to Hartlepool, a distance of more than 20 miles, before heading to Middlesbrough on Sunday. The campaigns website says tickets to be core marchers, who pay 50 to get fully-paid accommodation, breakfast and dinner for the duration of the 14-day event, have sold out. In announcing the march, Mr Farage said: All of us who want Britain to be a great country once again accept that we must be prepared to stand up for what we believe in and fight for our independence. Leave Means Leave chairman John Longworth said in February: The Westminster elite has had over two years to implement Brexit and instead has done everything in its power to prevent it. An extension of Article 50, thereby kicking the can further down the road, is completely unacceptable. Nigel Dodds, deputy leader of the Democratic Unionist Party, speaks outside the Cabinet Office in Londons Whitehall, where the party is having ongoing and significant discussions with government in the aftermath of this weeks Brexit debates in the House of Commons. Theresa May will continue efforts to salvage her Brexit deal amid further signs of pressure on her position. Further talks are expected over the coming days with the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) in the hope that persuading the 10 Northern Irish MPs to back the deal will help sway scores of Tory Eurosceptics to fall into line. DUP deputy leader Nigel Dodds said lengthy talks on Friday with senior ministers including Chancellor Philip Hammond were constructive and there was a renewed focus from the Government on addressing their concerns. Mr Dodds said: We have had a constructive dialogue. Those discussions will continue over the coming period of time. The Prime Minister is expected to bring her Withdrawal Agreement back for a third vote early next week despite its overwhelming 149-vote defeat on Tuesday. It has been a bruising week for the Prime Minister, with her Cabinet in open revolt as the focus on her leadership intensified. The Daily Telegraph reported two senior Downing Street figures believe she should fall on her sword by setting out the timetable for her departure. Expand Close Prime Minister Theresa Mays leadership has been questioned (PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Prime Minister Theresa Mays leadership has been questioned (PA) Earlier this week, Tory MP George Freeman, a former head of Mrs Mays policy board, said we need to choose a new leader with a vision to make sense of Brexit and Conservative veteran Sir Christopher Chope said he would seriously consider voting against her in a Commons confidence motion. Brussels has begun preparations for a possible delay to Brexit beyond the current March 29 deadline after MPs backed an extension to the Article 50 process. Latvian foreign minister Edgars Rinkevics suggested a delay of up to two years could be required if MPs continue to reject the Brexit deal. Number one priority would be the deal that is reached is passed, he told BBC Radio 4s Today. If it is not the case what we need is clear vision from the UK Government how much time UK needs to come up with new proposals, new ideas how we proceed. In that case its not a couple of months, I believe then we are talking about maybe one or two years. European Commission vice-president Frans Timmermans suggested that any extension to Article 50 could be a two-stage process, initially limited to a few weeks unless Mrs May could set out what she wanted to achieve with the extra time. He told Germanys Funke newspaper as long as this isnt clear, Brexit can only be delayed for a few weeks, solely to avoid a chaotic withdrawal on March 29. During this time, the British must tell us what they want: new elections? A new referendum? Only after that can we talk about a several-month extension, he added. Documents circulating among EU ambassadors make clear the bloc would terminate the UKs membership on July 1 if it has not taken part in European Parliament elections. The draft paper obtained by the Financial Times said Britain has to take part in the May 23-26 votes if it wants an extension of more than three months. The EU guidance echoes the briefing provided to MPs at Westminster before Thursdays vote, which said if the UK were to seek an extension beyond July 1, and hence remain a member state beyond that point, it would need to participate in the EP elections. Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay explains why he voted against the government on #Brexit last night, minutes after arguing for the plan in the Commons [tap to expand] https://t.co/H6ujN2cyEk pic.twitter.com/V5kAweomZb BBC Politics (@BBCPolitics) March 15, 2019 Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay, who voted against the Government motion requesting an Article 50 extension, indicated he would prefer a no-deal departure from the bloc to a long delay. He told the BBC: If we get the deal through as I hope we still will, we will now need a short, technical extension. But, if not, we shouldnt be afraid to leave with no deal. Former Cabinet minister Esther McVey suggested fellow Brexiteers could back Mrs Mays rubbish deal next week to make sure the UK leaves the EU. Quick training session before the March To Leave tomorrow morning! pic.twitter.com/MAm6ABmpSq Nigel Farage (@Nigel_Farage) March 15, 2019 She told BBC Radio 4s Political Thinking With Nick Robinson podcast: The element now is that people will have to take a bad deal rather than no deal. Any Brexit delay will require the agreement of the other 27 European Union members, with the issue likely to be on the table at a summit in Brussels on Thursday. Meanwhile, former Ukip leader Nigel Farage was setting out on his March to Leave, starting in Sunderland and due to arrive in Westminster on March 29. Sajid Javid, writing in the Express, has condemned the terror attack in New Zealand. (Dominic Lipinski/PA) Home Secretary Sajid Javid said he has been left sick to the stomach by a terror attack in New Zealand which claimed the lives of 49 people. Right-wing extremist Brenton Tarrant, 28, from Australia, went on the shooting spree at two mosques in Christchurch. Writing in the Express, Mr Javid called the attack heart-breaking. He added: Sick to the stomach by the massacre of 49 innocent worshippers as they attended Friday prayers. They were simply targeted for being Muslims, as they paid respects to God. My own late father never missed Friday prayers. I often joined him, and I fondly look back on the peaceful moments we shared. Expand Close Christians hand out flowers outside a Birmingham mosque in the wake of the attack (Ben Birchall/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Christians hand out flowers outside a Birmingham mosque in the wake of the attack (Ben Birchall/PA) Footage of the attack, which had been filmed by the gunman, was circulated online after the massacre. Mr Javid urged people to stop viewing and sharing the sick material online, adding: It is wrong and it is illegal. Online platforms have a responsibility not to do the terrorists work for them. This terrorist filmed his shooting with the intention of spreading his ideology. He said tech companies must do more to stop his message being broadcast. Mr Javid added that the Government is trying to address what he called illegal behaviour and companies who dont clean up their platforms should be prepared to face the force of the law. Expand Close The flag flies at haft mast on the New Zealand High Commission in Londons Haymarket, after the mosque attacks in Christchurch (Jonathan Brady/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The flag flies at haft mast on the New Zealand High Commission in Londons Haymarket, after the mosque attacks in Christchurch (Jonathan Brady/PA) The Home Secretary acknowledged that British Muslims will be feeling worried in the wake of the attack. He added: I say to them what I told my own concerned friends and family members who contacted me in the aftermath. You have my unwavering support at this terrible time. I condemn this atrocity with every fibre of my being. The UK was recently rocked by a wave of terror attacks, he said, adding: We know just how it feels. The prayers of our whole country are with the victims of this atrocity. Members of the media wait outside the district court building (Mark Baker/AP) A man suspected in at least one of the shootings that killed at least 49 people at two mosques in New Zealand has appeared briefly in court. Two armed guards brought Brenton Tarrant into court. He showed no expression as District Court Judge Paul Kellar read one charge of murder to him. The court appearance lasted only about a minute and he was led back out in handcuffs. Expand Close Police officers search the area near the Masjid Al Noor mosque (Mark Baker/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Police officers search the area near the Masjid Al Noor mosque (Mark Baker/AP) He was ordered to return to court again April 5. After Tarrant left, the judge said that while there is one charge of murder brought at the moment, it is reasonable to assume that there will be others. The gunman posted a 74-page manifesto on social media in which he identified himself as Tarrant and said he was a 28-year-old Australian and white supremacist who was out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims. President Donald Trump played down any threat posed by racist white nationalism after the gunman accused of the New Zealand mosque massacre called the president a symbol of renewed white identity. Mr Trump, whose own previous responses to the movement have drawn scrutiny, expressed sympathy for the victims who died as places of worship turned into scenes of evil killing. But he declined to join expressions of mounting concern about white nationalism, saying that I dont, really when asked whether it was a rising threat around the world. I think its a small group of people that have very, very serious problems, I guess, Mr Trump said. If you look at what happened in New Zealand, perhaps thats the case. I dont know enough about it yet. But its certainly a terrible thing. Mr Trump was asked about white nationalism and the shooting deaths of 49 people at mosques in Christchurch after he formally vetoed Congress resolution to block his declaration of a national emergency at the Mexico border. Expand Close A police officer patrols at a cordon near a mosque in central Christchurch (Mark Baker/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A police officer patrols at a cordon near a mosque in central Christchurch (Mark Baker/AP) His veto, aimed at freeing money to build more miles of a border wall against illegal immigration, is expected to survive any congressional effort to overturn it. Questioned about the accused gunmans reference to him, Mr Trump professed ignorance. I think it's (Christchurch shootings) a horrible event ... a horrible, disgraceful thing and a horrible actDonald Trump I didnt see it. I didnt see it, he said. But I think its a horrible event a horrible, disgraceful thing and a horrible act. The man accused of the shootings, whose name was not immediately released, left behind a lengthy document that outlined his motivations. He proudly stated that he was a 28-year-old Australian white nationalist who hates immigrants and was set off by attacks in Europe that were perpetrated by Muslims. In a single reference, he mentioned the US president. Were/are you a supporter of Donald Trump? was one of the questions he posed to himself. His answer: As a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose? Sure. As a policy maker and leader? Dear god no. The White House immediately denounced the connection. Expand Close President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office (Evan Vucci/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office (Evan Vucci/AP) But the mention from the suspect, who embraced Nazi imagery and voiced support for fascism, nonetheless cast an uncomfortable light on the way that the president has been embraced by some on the far right. Mr Trump, who as a candidate proposed a ban on all Muslims entering the United States, has drawn criticism as being slow to condemn white supremacy and related violence. After a 2017 clash between white nationalists and anti-racist protesters in Charlottesville, Virginia, that left one demonstrator dead, Mr Trump said there were very fine people on both sides of the confrontation. He also did not immediately reject the support of David Duke, a former KKK Grand Wizard, during his presidential campaign. Mr Trump himself telephoned New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern, offering condolences, prayers and any help the US might be able to provide. Expand Close New Zealands prime minister Jacinda Ardern (AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp New Zealands prime minister Jacinda Ardern (AP) She told reporters she answered: My message was: to offer sympathy and love to all Muslim communities. Mr Trumps hardline immigration rhetoric and calls to return America to its traditional past have been embraced by many on the conservative fringes, including some who troll online with racist imagery, as well as white supremacists who have looked to engage in violence. In Florida, Cesar Sayoc, who had decorated his van with Trump propaganda, was accused of posting explosives last autumn to Democratic Party officials and media members, many of whom had been criticised by the president. The president said Sayoc had been insane long before he became a Trump fan. Last month, a former Coast Guard official was accused of stockpiling weapons in a plot to kill media members and liberal politicians as part of a plan to transform the US into a white ethno-state. It took more than a week for Mr Trump to respond to the plot, which he deemed a shame. Many experts who track violent extremists have identified white nationalism as a growing threat in the US and abroad. In January, for example, the New York-based Anti-Defamation League said that domestic extremists killed at least 50 people in the US, in 2018, up from 37 in 2017, and said, White supremacists were responsible for the great majority of the killings, which is typically the case. Some critics have accused US authorities of not dedicating adequate resources to stem a threat of domestic terrorism. However, The Washington Post reported last week that internal FBI data showed more domestic terror suspects were arrested last year than those allegedly inspired by international terror groups. Mourners pay their respects at a makeshift memorial near the Masjid Al Noor mosque (AP Photo/Vincent Yu) Several of those killed or wounded in the shooting rampage at two New Zealand mosques on Friday were from the Middle East or South Asia, according to initial reports from several governments. The live-streamed attack killed at least 49 people as they gathered for weekly prayers in Christchurch. Another 48 people suffered gunshot wounds in the attacks. Bangladeshs honorary consul in Auckland, Shafiqur Rahman Bhuiyan, said that so far three Bangladeshis were among those killed and four or five others were wounded, including two left in a critical condition. One leg of an injured needed to be amputated while another suffered bullet injuries in his chest, Mr Rahman Bhuiyan said. He declined to identify the dead or wounded. Expand Close A message is displayed at a makeshift memorial outside Christchurch Hospital (AP Photo/Vincent Thian) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A message is displayed at a makeshift memorial outside Christchurch Hospital (AP Photo/Vincent Thian) The number of Jordanians killed in the New Zealand mosque shootings has risen to three after a wounded man died of his injuries. Jordans Foreign Ministry announced the death on Saturday. The ministry said a Jordanian diplomat is on his way to New Zealand to coordinate with local authorities. In the immediate aftermath of Fridays attack on two Christchurch mosques, the Foreign Ministry had announced that two Jordanians were among the 49 people killed, and that eight Jordanians had been wounded. Christchurch Hospital chief Greg Robertson said on Saturday that seven of the 48 gunshot victims admitted after the shootings had been discharged. Mr Robertson said a four-year-old girl who had been transferred to an Auckland hospital was in critical condition and 11 patients who remained in Christchurch were also critically wounded. We have had patients with injuries to most parts of the body that range from relatively superficial soft tissue injuries to more complex injuries involving the chest, the abdomen, the pelvis, the long bones and the head, he said. Many patients will require multiple operations to deal with their complex series of injuries, he added. Expand Close A bouquet of flowers is placed near Christchurch Hospital (AP Photo/Mark Baker) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A bouquet of flowers is placed near Christchurch Hospital (AP Photo/Mark Baker) He said a two-year-old boy was in stable condition, as was a 13-year-old boy. Mohammed Elyan, a Jordanian in his 60s who co-founded one of the mosques in 1993, was among those wounded, as was his son, Atta, who is in his 30s, according to Muath Elyan, Mohammeds brother, who said he spoke to Mohammeds wife after the shooting. He said his brother helped establish the mosque a year after arriving in New Zealand, where he teaches engineering at a university and runs a consultancy. He said his brother last visited Jordan two years ago. He used to tell us life was good in New Zealand and its people are good and welcoming. He enjoyed freedom there and never complained about anything, he added. Im sure this bloody crime doesnt represent the New Zealanders. Pakistans Foreign Ministry said four Pakistanis were wounded, and Ministry spokesman Mohammad Faisal tweeted that five other Pakistani citizens were missing after Fridays attacks. Update on New Zealand terrorism incident - 4 Pakistanis injured and being treated in hospitals - 5 Pakistanis are missing. Identities are being authenticated in consultation with local authorities. Dr Mohammad Faisal (@DrMFaisal) March 15, 2019 Terrorism in #NewZealand: One Pakistani injured identified as Muhammad Amin Nasir, DOB: 01-10-1951, from Hafizabad. He is in ICU and remains in critical comdition. #pakistanagainstterror Dr Mohammad Faisal (@DrMFaisal) March 16, 2019 Malaysia said two of its citizens were hospitalised, and the Saudi Embassy in Wellington said two Saudis were wounded. Indias high commissioner to New Zealand, Sanjiv Kohli, tweeted on Saturday that nine Indians were missing and called the attack a huge crime against humanity. Indian officials have not said whether the nine were believed to be living in Christchurch. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said at least three Turkish citizens were wounded in the attacks in New Zealand and that he had spoken to one of them. Afghanistans ambassador to Australia and New Zealand said two Afghans were missing and a third person of Afghan origin was treated and released from the hospital. Egypt said four Egyptians were among those killed in the shootings. The emigration ministry said on Saturday that authorities in New Zealand have the deaths, including two 68-year-olds. The ages of the other two victims were not given. Two Indonesians, a father and son, were also among those shot and wounded, Foreign Ministry spokesman Arrmanatha Nasir said. Mr Nasir said the father was being treated at an intensive care unit and his son was in another ward at the same hospital. He declined to identify them. Later, a Jordanian man said his four-year-old niece is fighting for her life after being wounded in the attack. Sabri Daraghmeh said the girl, Elin, remains in the danger phase and that her father, Waseem Mr Daraghmehs brother is in a stable condition. A memorial near the Masjid Al Noor mosque, where one of the two mass shootings occurred (Mark Baker/AP) New Zealand has been trying to come to terms with the deaths of 49 people shot to death at two mosques during midday prayers on Friday. One man was arrested and charged with murder. Brenton Harrison Tarrant appeared in court on Saturday morning amid strict security and showed no emotion when the judge read him one murder charge. The judge said it was reasonable to assume more such charges would follow. Two other armed suspects were taken into custody while police tried to determine what role, if any, they played in the attack that stunned New Zealand. It was by far the deadliest shooting in modern New Zealand history. It is clear that this can now only be described as a terrorist attack, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said, noting that many of the victims could be migrants or refugees. She pronounced it one of New Zealands darkest days. Tarrant posted a jumbled, 74-page manifesto on social media in which he identified himself as a 28-year-old Australian and white supremacist who was out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims. The gunman also live-streamed in graphic detail 17 minutes of his rampage at Al Noor Mosque. At least 48 people were wounded, some critically. Police also defused explosive devices in a car. Christchurch Hospital chief Greg Robertson said on Saturday that seven of the 48 gunshot victims admitted after the shootings in had been discharged. A four-year-old girl who had been transferred to an Auckland hospital was in critical condition and 11 patients who remained in Christchurch were also critically wounded. We have had patients with injuries to most parts of the body that range from relatively superficial soft tissue injuries to more complex injuries involving the chest, the abdomen, the pelvis, the long bones and the head, he said. A two-year-old boy was in stable condition, as was a 13-year-old boy. Expand Close Police stand by makeshift memorial near the Linwood Mosque in Christchurch (Mark Baker/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Police stand by makeshift memorial near the Linwood Mosque in Christchurch (Mark Baker/AP) Police did not say whether the same person was responsible for both shootings. They gave no details about those taken into custody except to say that none had been on any watch list. During the Saturday morning hearing, a man who was not in court was charged with using writings to incite hatred against a race or ethnicity, but it was not clear if his case was related to Tarrants. Tarrants relatives in the Australian town of Grafton, in New South Wales, contacted police after learning of the shooting and were helping with the investigation, local authorities said. He has spent little time in Australia in the past four years and only had minor traffic infractions on his record. In the aftermath, the countrys threat level was raised from low to high, police warned Muslims against going to a mosque anywhere in New Zealand, and the national airline cancelled several flights in and out of Christchurch, a city of nearly 400,000. World leaders condemned the violence and offered condolences, with US president Donald Trump tweeting, We stand in solidarity with New Zealand. New Zealand, with a population of five million, has relatively loose gun laws and an estimated 1.5 million firearms, or roughly one for every three people. But it has one of the lowest gun homicide rates in the world. In 2015, it had just eight gun homicides. Expand Close A man places flowers at a makeshift memorial near the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch, (Mark Baker/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A man places flowers at a makeshift memorial near the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch, (Mark Baker/AP) On Saturday, the prime minister said the primary perpetrator in the shootings was a licensed gun owner and legally acquired the five guns used. Ms Ardern said the countrys gun laws will change as a result of the carnage, but she did not specify how. The prime minister said the attack reflected extremist views that have absolutely no place in New Zealand. Immigrants have chosen to make New Zealand their home, and it is their home, Ms Ardern said. They are us. At the White House, Mr Trump called the bloodshed a terrible thing but rejected any suggestion the white nationalist movement is a rising threat around the world, saying it is a small group of people that have very, very serious problems. At the Al Noor mosque, witness Len Peneha said he saw a man dressed in black and wearing a helmet with some kind of device on top enter the house of worship and then heard dozens of shots, followed by people running out in terror. Mr Peneha, who lives next door, said the gunman ran out of the mosque, dropped what appeared to be a semi-automatic weapon in his driveway and fled. Mr Peneha then went into the mosque to help the victims. I saw dead people everywhere. There were three in the hallway, at the door leading into the mosque, and people inside the mosque, he said. I dont understand how anyone could do this to these people, to anyone. Its ridiculous. Facebook, Twitter and Google scrambled to take down the gunmans video, which was widely available on social media for hours after the attack. A refugee who ran towards the Christchurch terror attacker is being hailed a hero for preventing more deaths. When the attacker, alleged to be white supremacist Brenton Tarrant, entered the Linwood mosque in Christchurch, Abdul Aziz, 48, picked up the first thing he could find a credit card machine and ran outside, screaming: Come here! His actions led the gunman on a cat-and-mouse chase before scaring him into speeding away in his car. But Mr Aziz, whose four sons and dozens of others remained in the mosque while he faced off with the gunman, said he thinks its what anyone would have done. The terrorist killed 49 people after attacking two mosques in the deadliest mass shooting in New Zealands modern history. He is believed to have killed 41 people at the Al Noor mosque before driving about three miles across town and attacking the Linwood mosque, where he killed seven more people. One person died later in a hospital. Expand Close Mourners place flowers as they pay their respects at a makeshift memorial near the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch (Vincent Yu/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Mourners place flowers as they pay their respects at a makeshift memorial near the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch (Vincent Yu/AP) Tarrant, 28, has been charged with one count of murder and a judge said on Saturday that it was reasonable to assume more charges would follow. Latef Alabi, the Linwood mosques acting imam, said the death toll would have been far higher if it wasnt for Mr Aziz. Mr Alabi said he heard a voice outside the mosque at about 1:55 pm and stopped the prayer he was leading and peeked out the window. He saw a man in black military-style gear and a helmet holding a large gun, and assumed it was a police officer. Then he saw two bodies and heard the gunman yelling obscenities. I realised this is something else. This is a killer, he said. I've been to a lot of countries and this is one of the beautiful onesAbdul Aziz He yelled at the congregation of more than 80 to get down. They hesitated. A shot rang out, a window shattered and a body fell, and people began to realise it was for real. Then this brother came over. He went after him, and he managed to overpower him, and thats how we were saved, Mr Alabi said, referring to Mr Aziz. Otherwise, if he managed to come into the mosque, then we would all probably be gone. Mr Aziz said as he ran outside screaming, he was hoping to distract the attacker. He said the gunman ran back to his car to get another gun, and Mr Aziz hurled the credit card machine at him. He said he could hear his two youngest sons, aged 11 and five, urging him to come back inside. The gunman returned, firing. Mr Aziz said he ran, weaving through cars parked in the driveway, which prevented the gunman from getting a clean shot. Then Mr Aziz spotted a gun the gunman had abandoned and picked it up, pointed it and squeezed the trigger. It was empty. He said the gunman ran back to the car for a second time, likely to grab yet another weapon. He gets into his car and I just got the gun and threw it on his window like an arrow and blasted his window, he said. The window shattered: Thats why he got scared. He said the gunman was cursing at him, yelling that he was going to kill them all. But he drove away and Mr Aziz said he chased the car down the street to a red light, before it made a U-turn and sped away. Online videos indicate police officers managed to force the car from the road and drag out the suspect soon after. Originally from Kabul, Afghanistan, Mr Aziz said he left as a refugee when he was a boy and lived for more than 25 years in Australia before moving to New Zealand a couple of years ago. Ive been to a lot of countries and this is one of the beautiful ones, he said. And, he always thought, a peaceful one as well. Mr Aziz said he did not feel fear or much of anything when facing the gunman. It was like he was on autopilot. And he believes that God, that Allah, did not think it was his time to die. Spains Socialist government has set June 10 as the date for relocating the remains of former dictator General Francisco Franco from a self-aggrandising mausoleum to a more discreet grave in a public cemetery in Madrid. The countrys prime minister Pedro Sanchez, who is trying to remain in power in the countrys April 28 election, had promised to exhume Francos embalmed body from the Valley of the Fallen by the end of 2018. Expand Close Flowers are placed on the tomb of former Spanish dictator Francisco Franco (Andrea Comas/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Flowers are placed on the tomb of former Spanish dictator Francisco Franco (Andrea Comas/AP) However, his call has been hampered by opposition from Francos relatives and the abbot of the basilica where the dictator was buried in 1975. The countrys Supreme Court is to deliver a preliminary decision in the coming days. Deputy prime minister Carmen Calvo said on Friday that the government would comply with whatever the judges decide. The horror of the terrorist attack on two mosques in New Zealand was magnified for two reasons - it was so unexpected in what is a very inclusive society and, secondly, the victims were people at prayer, worshipping their god. But as Ann Travers - whose sister Mary was shot dead by the IRA in 1984 as she walked home from church in south Belfast - pointed out, we in Northern Ireland have greater empathy than most with the people of New Zealand at this time. The IRA had intended to kill Ann's father Tom, a magistrate, and picked a time when he was at his most vulnerable, leaving Mass. She could also have highlighted the INLA gun attack the previous year on the small Mountain Lodge Pentacostal Church in south Armagh, where three Protestant worshippers were killed and seven others wounded when the building was raked indiscriminately with gunfire. Anyone with any touch of humanity recoils especially at the notion of attacks on places of worship. Through the centuries churches have been places of sanctuary, and worshippers of many faiths have gone to extraordinary lengths to practice their religion in times of persecution. It matters not whether the targets of terrorists are Christians or Muslims or any of the myriad of other faiths, their deaths seem especially heinous. New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was quick to point out that those attacked were as much a part of the country as any other citizens, even if some were immigrants or refugees. This was a heinous crime - 49 killed and 48 injured - by a man who described himself as a fascist and who grotesquely streamed his murderous rampage live on social media. He apparently preyed on those at prayer to sate his bigotry and warped world view. To most people it was a crime which is almost incomprehensible. Sadly, mass shootings and bombings on political or religious grounds have become far too prevalent in today's world, even in perceived safe havens like New Zealand. A senior leader of Filipino militants who escaped when troops retook the southern Philippine city of Marawi from Islamic State-linked fighters two years ago is believed to be among insurgents killed during clashes earlier this week, military officials said Saturday. Humam Abdul Najib (alias Abu Dar) is likely one of two militants slain in clashes near Tubaran town in Lanao del Sur province on Thursday. Three soldiers were also killed, and three others who were reported missing had already been accounted for, the military said. Tissue samples gathered from the slain militants were being processed for DNA testing, though results were not expected for weeks, military spokesman Col. Gerry Besana told BenarNews. The death of Abu Dar is still for verification, Besana said, referring to Najib's alias. But Besana emphasized that witnesses on the ground, including residents in the area, had offered visual confirmation. This will be validated by DNA testing," he said. Besana said a .45-caliber pistol that was among several firearms recovered in the area had been positively identified as owned by Najib. Najib was among those who helped plan the five-month Marawi siege with the Maute brothers and Isnilon Hapilon, the overall regional leader of the IS. Several Southeast Asian IS militants, as well as fighters from the Middle East, were also among those who helped carry it out. The siege, the biggest that was launched in the region by the IS, led to heavy battles that killed 1,200 people, most of them militants. Filipino forces, long used to jungle fighting, had to adjust to urban guerrilla warfare. Australian and U.S. forces were later called in to help in intelligence work, mostly providing aerial and other technical support that helped pinpoint enemy positions. Hapilon was killed in October 2017, while Najib and several fighters escaped as troops closed in on their positions in Marawi, military officials said. Najib is believed to have studied in an Islamic school in the northern Philippines, before going to Afghanistan for jihad training in 2005. He is an expert bomb maker, and had at one time ran basic military training for fresh recruits in the southern Philippines, according to military officials. Col. Romeo Brawner, commander of the Army 103rd Infantry Brigade, said a forensics teams took saliva and tissue samples from the body. He said a portion of the samples was given to the U.S. forces based in the southern city of Zamboanga for DNA analysis. I was told the results will take more than one month. Until then, we cannot say categorically it was Abu Dar who was killed, Brawner told BenarNews. But, he said, all the telltale marks were present on the dead mans body, except for a mole and knife scars. A profile and photograph of Filipino militant Abu Dar is seen in this photograph handed out to reporters by the Philippine Army, January 2018. [HO/Philippine Army] An officer who asked not to be identified said the body was wearing the same clothes usually worn by Abu Dar as seen on captured videos black cargo pants and black shirt. The residents and a group of former Maute fighters who surrendered, told us the body was Abu Dar, Brawner said. The samples and test will provide the answers if it is indeed him, he said. Fighting between government forces and two militant factions had been going in separate parts of Mindanao since Monday. At least 22 fighters of the IS-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), including a militant with Arabic features, have been killed during gunbattles in the province of Maguindanao, officials said. On Wednesday, three soldiers and two militants, including the one believed to be Najib, were killed in clashes near Marawi city. Last year, military official had estimated that at least 40 foreign fighters were still believed to be fighting in Mindanao, many of whom had slipped into the south across its porous borders with neighboring Malaysia and Indonesia. Over the past few years, we have witnessed many horrible terror attacks in the Western world and, most of all, in the Third World. Each of these attacks shocked the peaceful majority of people worldwide independently of race, religion, or social status. We took care of the victims and condemned the terrorists actions. True attacks in the Western world gained more attention than similar attacks in the Third World, or in Islamic countries. The former atrocities were covered more extensively in the media, they were discussed more intensely by politicians, and they led to stronger reactions from the populations primarily via social media. My explanation for this difference in impact was the better media and broader internet access in the Western world and the fact that many people in Islamic countries are jaded due to the wars and attacks there. Daud Noorzai (41) is considered one of the best-known and influential German Afghans Foto: Andreas Thelen However, the terrible attack in New Zealand has destroyed my line of argument. I was wrong. We, the people, independently of our race, religion, or social status, do not mourn in the same way for all victims of similar attacks. We do not condemn all terrorists in the same way. The media do not cover the massacre in the same way and our politicians do not engage in the same efforts. We only take to the streets, post our condolences, and change our profile pictures for white victims. An attack on Muslims even in the First World country does not lead to the same kind of outrage in the media. Politicians do not march hand in hand for peace. Nothing is projected onto memorials and buildings to show our solidarity. Daud Noorzai at a meeting with the President of Afghanistan, Ashraf Ghani (69) Foto: Andreas Thelen I cant even point my finger at the non-Muslim world. In Muslim countries, there is the same lack of declarations of solidarity. Besides the lack of motivation to show solidarity with the Muslim victims, there are also astonishing descriptions of the perpetrator. Certain media do not write about a terrorist. In this case, hes a murderer or a gunman. So Im wondering: Are the terms terror, terrorists, fanatics, reserved for killers with passports from Islamic countries? Auch Interessant Surely there will be no additional security checks at the airports after this terror attack where randomly picked white people would have to explain that they are not connected to any terrorist organization. The latter belongs to the everyday life of people from the Islamic world. My final point might sound harsh, and Im sure many readers will attack me for it. However, my hope is that some will try to understand the message behind my words. It is incredibly sad that so many people have lost their lives. Im mourning together with their relatives. But one thing I have to say: Im glad the terrorist was NOT a Muslim. In this case, the families who are mourning the loss of their loved ones are suffering and not all Muslims. If the constellation had been the other way around (Muslim terrorist / Christian or Jewish victims), millions of Muslims would have to suffer from the medias attacks in the coming weeks and months. They would be collectively accused by the public, be put under general suspicion, and be observed even more closely by the security services. My prayers are with the victims but nothing will happen. The victims will be buried. The terrorist will go to prison. We will continue to live our lives. And there will be further terror attacks on Muslims. *Daud Noorzai (41) is considered one of the best-known and influential German Afghans. He is particularly advocating for women and the younger generation in Afghanistan. He was awarded the Afghan state medal. Noorzai was born in Kabul in 1977. He fled to Germany with his family, where he grew up and studied economics. In 2004, he went back to Afghanistan on his own initiative. He founded one of the biggest media outlets, then went into politics and became head of the office of the President of Afghanistan, Ashraf Ghani, in 2015. Lately, Noorzai has also founded a consulting company in Kabul that specializes in foreign investment and big infrastructure and energy projects. 60 young Afghans work in his office, with a 30 percent share of women. To this day, Noorzai consults with many young politicians in the country and contributes to its modernization. For Immediate Release, March 15, 2019 Contact: Jared Margolis, Center for Biological Diversity, (802) 310-4054, jmargolis@biologicaldiversity.org Gabby Brown, Sierra Club, (914) 261-4626, gabby.brown@sierraclub.org Margie Kelly, NRDC, (541) 222-9699, mkelly@nrdc.org Patrick Davis, Friends of the Earth, (202) 222-0744, pdavis@foe.org Dustin Ogdin, Northern Plains Resource Council, (406) 248-1154, dustin@northernplains.org Mark Hefflinger, Bold Alliance, (323) 972-5192, mark@boldalliance.org TransCanada Loses Latest Attempt to Begin Keystone XL Pipeline Construction Ruling Deals New Setback to Proposed Dirty Tar Sands Project SAN FRANCISCO The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit today denied yet another attempt by TransCanada to begin construction on its proposed Keystone XL pipeline. The court left in place a ruling by the U.S. District Court for the District of Montana that blocked construction on the controversial tar sands pipeline amid an ongoing legal challenge. Late last year, the District Court ruled that the Trump administration violated bedrock environmental laws when approving a federal permit for the pipeline. The ruling blocked any construction while the government revises its environmental review. TransCanada and the Trump administration appealed that decision in the 9th Circuit. Todays order leaves the injunction on construction in place while the court decides on the merits of the case. TransCanada had argued that if the company could not begin construction by March 15, it would miss the 2019 construction season altogether. According to TransCanada, todays decision means the earliest TransCanada could start construction is 2020, if it ever starts at all. Its been over a decade since this dirty tar sands pipeline was proposed, and TransCanada just keeps doing the same thing and hoping for a different result, said Sierra Club Senior Attorney Doug Hayes. Keystone XL would be a bad deal for the American people, and its never been more obvious that it will never be built. The Keystone XL pipeline would be an absolute disaster for wildlife, water and our climate, said Jared Margolis, a senior attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity. TransCanada wont be threatening communities and habitats with pollution for profit while regulators review this terrible climate-killing project. In court, facts matter. And those facts show that Keystone XL is a flawed project, said Jackie Prange, a senior attorney with the Natural Resources Defense Council. The Ninth Circuit rightly rejected TransCanadas premature attempt to build this dirty pipeline. The Ninth Circuit made the right call in upholding the prohibition against most pre-construction activity by TransCanada. We do not need a foreign corporation disrupting Montana communities for a dangerous project whose permit has been deemed unlawful by federal courts, said Dena Hoff, farmer and member-leader of Northern Plains Resource Council. If implemented, the Keystone XL pipeline would threaten the drinking water for tens of thousands of Montanans not to mention important water sources for many agricultural communities. TransCanada should be working to provide a complete and current Environmental Impact Statement rather than trying to force through a reckless project that does not currently meet legal standards. TransCanada keeps losing in the courts because facts matter, said Jane Kleeb, Bold Alliance president. Farmers and ranchers will not turn over their land to a foreign corporation. Its way past time for TransCanada to pack it up and go home. Todays ruling is another important moment in our fight against the corporate polluters who have rushed to destroy our planet, said Marcie Keever, legal director at Friends of the Earth. Environmental laws exist to protect people and our lands and waters. Today, the courts continued to show Trump and his corporate polluter friends that they cannot start work on this disastrous pipeline that would harm rural landowners, farmers, ecosystems and Native communities. The Indigenous Environmental Network and North Coast Rivers Alliance also opposed TransCanadas motion. Whys BioPharma BREAKING R&D SHACKLES? The Indian industry bore witness to biotech companies collaborating with vaccine manufacturers, vaccine technologies being transferred, licenses to manufacture several drugs granted to pharma companies, among other notable developments. These collaborations and partnerships have furthered R&D, commercialisation and distribution of several critical drugs throughout 2021. However, key barriers to R&D-based innovation still persist in the Indian pharma market that needs to be sorted out soon. We shall take a closer look at the industry quest to realise even more, swift innovations and fewer hindrances. The conference was attended by leading team of endocrinologists from across countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka in addition to all leading medical practitioners from the country A team of leading endocrinologists from SAARC countries recently inaugurated the annual SAARC Diabetes Conference in New Delhi. The themes of this years conference is Sharirmadyam Khalu Dharmasadhanam which lays importance on an individuals responsibility to keep his body healthy. Good health is key to wellness and contributes to the overall performance of an individual. The two-day annual conference organised under the aegis of Dept. of Endocrinology and Metabolism at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. is the only platform that brings leading medical experts from SAARC countries together to exchange best practices, update on latest products and other technical advancements that can aid in improving the overall management of Diabetes. Opened by Prof (Col) Surender Kumar, President of SAARC Diabetes Association, the conference was attended by all leading endocrinologists across the country including Dr V Mohan, Dr Nikhil Tandon and Dr Ambrish Mittal amongst other dignitaries. It was also attended by like-minded stakeholders and practitioners from SAARC countries who highlighted the progress made over the past year towards tackling diabetes in their respective regions as a result of focused awareness programs undertaken. SAARC countries are among the highest populations of people with diabetes. This conference enables us to exchange key notes, progress and developments on improving the way Diabetes is managed currently. In India specifically, IMPACT India the 1000-Day Challenge provides a clear goal and direction for improving diabetes care by reducing HbA1c by 1% over a 3-year period. This is the primary program that can serve as a guide for other countries to learn from, said Prof (Col) Surender Kumar, Chairman, Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. As per the 8th edition of IDF Diabetes Atlas, the incidence of Diabetes in South East Asian countries was found to be over 82 million in 2017 which is expected to grow upto 151 million by the end of 2045. This clearly indicated that worldwide, there is a steady increase in the diabetes population owing to ignorance and sedentary lifestyle. Especially in the Indian sub-continent, the high incidence rate of diabetes, has led to a significant health burden. This teamed with lack of awareness and undiagnosed diabetes has paved way for the rise of various heart, kidney, eye and limb diseases. In India alone, 1 in 12 adults suffer from diabetes and over 11.2 lakh succumb to its complications. To combat this growing burden, the need of the hour is to burst myths and improve awareness on the need to manage diabetes better by adopting a healthy lifestyle and being aware, adds Dr Sudhir Tripathi, Senior Consultant, Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. About IMPACT India: 1000 Day Challenge: Under IMPACT India, the 1000 Day challenge, Novo Nordisk Education Foundation has taken an initiative to improve awareness and education amongst 150,000 practitioners and 10,000 paramedics through over 6,000 medical meetings and continuous medical education (CMEs) programmes. Novo Nordisk Education Foundation has also developed India Diabetes Care Index, a tool to track progress of diabetes care in India that provides a first ever real-time data on the state of diabetes care and the average blood sugar found in people living with diabetes. Currently, as per this index, the three-month average HbA1c level of people with diabetes in key cities is high against the recommended target of <7%. Delhi is found to be at 8.53%, Mumbai at 8.13%, Chennai at 8.41% and Kolkata at 8.24%. India on the whole is found to be at an average HbA1c of 8.51%. Through this program, the ambition is to improve the understanding of the principal factors behind the rise of diabetes in India, enhance understanding on uncontrolled diabetes and then share and apply that knowledge to real-world solutions for people to live healthier lives with diabetes. Americas schools are awash in data, raising all manner of concerns about the privacy and security of students sensitive information. But theres one issue that has been mostly overlooked, according to the Center for Democracy & Technology, a Washington nonprofit focused on privacy and free speech: Properly getting rid of student data when its no longer needed. Deleting data is much more complicated than one might think, with a number of important policy, legal, and technical considerations, reads the groups new report, titled Balancing the Scale of Student Data Deletion and Retention and Education. Historically, schools have erred on the side of retaining most of the data they collect, CDT contends. That creates considerable risks, including increased potential for breaches or threat, as well as the possibility that data about a child collected for one purpose today may be used out of context, for a very different purpose, down the line. Still, many schools, districts, and states have struggled to develop effective polices and implement strong technical practices around data retention and deletion, said Elizabeth Laird, the senior fellow for student privacy at the Center for Democracy & Technology. Many arent even able to fully account for the data theyre storing. Our expectation is that the capacity around this issue varies, said Laird, who previously worked as the deputy assistant superintendent of data, assessment, and research for Washington, D.C.'s state education agency. Certainly, there are places where there hasnt been much attention and focus on this, and the risk of deleting feels greater than the risk of retention, she said in an interview. Thats who we have in mind. To help, the report attempts to describe the patchwork legal framework that currently governs data retention and deletion in K-12. At the federal level, theres the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and the Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act, both of generally require third-party operators contracting with schools to destroy personally identifiable information when its no longer needed for its original purpose. State laws, meanwhile, vary tremendously. And new consumer data-privacy protections are starting to advance the idea that people should be able to request that their data be deleted when certain conditions are met. But big-picture, such laws represent a minimum floor, Laird said. To go further, CDT suggests three steps for states and districts to follow : Create comprehensive inventories outlining all the data education agencies have, what format the information is in, where it is stored, how it used, and by whom. Develop clear policies that spell out such issues as how long each type of collected data should be retained, how such information should be deleted when it is no longer needed, and how permanent data will be archived. There must be a single person who is ultimately responsible for the enforcement of the retention schedule, the groups report recommends. This person should be a high-level employee, such as the Chief Information Security Officer or Chief Information Officer. K-12 agencies should also create auditable deletion trails for all information, CDT suggests. Learn and employ technical best practices, including encryption of all data at all times and proper destruction of both hardware and digital information. The group also recommends that districts and states demand that third parties who collect and store student data provide formal deletion certificates describing what data the companies destroy, what methods they use, the date when it happens, and who was responsible. Maryland digital-privacy lawyer Bradley Shear described the recommendations as good first steps that states and school districts should consider. But turning them into a reality will be a challenge, said Shear, who since 2017 has been advocating for June 30th to become National Student Data Deletion Day. Many education agencies lack the resources and expertise to tackle what can quickly turn into complicated mess, he said. The back-end architecture of many of these systems were not designed to make data easy to delete. Ive seen ludicrous vendor contracts with no sunset provisions on the information that is collected. Its hard to get companies to amend their standard legal agreements, Shear said. Its not simple. And the report also avoids getting into detail on one of the thorniest dynamics in the retention-deletion debate, said Girard Kelly, counsel and director of the privacy review for Common Sense , a nonprofit that provides ratings and reviews of ed tech products. Much of the information collected on behalf of schools is actually held by third-party companies and operators. And while those third parties typically have policies stating that they wont retain personally identifiable student information after its no longer needed, Kelly said, they also typically seek to retain a version of those data in which identifying details about individual students have ostensibly been stripped out. Most vendors dont really care about data deletion, because they only want to monetize de-identified data, which most policies allow for unlimited use, he said. The Center for Democracy & Technology recognizes this and calls for contractual limitations on such practices. It is important to place limits on the sharing and reuse of de-identified data, the report says. Image: Getty See also: for the latest news on ed-tech policies, practices, and trends. The mood was sombre as Muslims attending Friday prayers at Brandon Islamic Centre came to grips with the massacre of dozens of people in two New Zealand mosques. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 16/3/2019 (1000 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Advertisement Advertise With Us Faiz Ahmad, past president of the Brandon Islamic Centre, said the mood was solemn at the local place of worship as people mourned the deaths of dozens of Muslims attending Friday prayers in New Zealand. (Bud Robertson/The Brandon Sun) The mood was sombre as Muslims attending Friday prayers at Brandon Islamic Centre came to grips with the massacre of dozens of people in two New Zealand mosques. "Usually it is a very joyful atmosphere," Faiz Ahmad, past president of the Islamic centre, said following afternoon prayers, "but today it is not." At least 49 people were shot to death at two mosques during midday prayers Friday in New Zealand most if not all of them gunned down by an immigrant-hating white supremacist who apparently used a helmet-mounted camera to broadcast live video of the slaughter on Facebook. One man was arrested and charged with murder, and two other armed suspects were taken into custody while police tried to determine what role, if any, they played in the cold-blooded attack that stunned New Zealand, a country so peaceful that police officers rarely carry guns. "Its sad. Its very tragic," said Ahmad, a biology professor at Brandon University. "This is simply based on hatred, and we condemn it, no matter which country it happens in, which group does it," he said, adding Muslims would feel the same if it happened in a synagogue or a church. "Violence is violence and hatred is despicable." Brandons Muslim community numbers more than 300. Ahmad said they are fortunate to be living in a tolerant city such as Brandon, where Muslims have been largely accepted. Abdul Banuga, who said he was among the first Muslims in Brandon when he arrived in 1983, said he, too, is saddened by the tragic events in New Zealand. "Were all human beings. Thats how I look at it," he said. "For somebody to do something like this ... he has to be disturbed." Mayor Rick Chrest, who was out of the city Friday, said in a statement: "We are deeply saddened to have learned of the horrific tragedy in New Zealand. With a very active Islamic Centre here in Brandon, we mourn in solidarity with our own citizens whose faith has been impacted and extend our sincere condolences." Meanwhile, Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister said in a statement: "I am devastated by the news of the despicable and cowardly shootings in New Zealand. Freedom of religion, peace and rule of law are pillars of democracy and the world we share. "On behalf of all Manitobans, we strongly condemn this horrific attack against Muslims. Our prayers are with the victims of this senseless attack and their loved ones." Pallister added: "We have reached out to our Muslim community here in Manitoba to offer our support during this incredibly sad and difficult time. We stand together with you in peace and solidarity." The gunman who carried out at least one of the mosque attacks left a jumbled, 74-page manifesto that he posted on social media under the name Brenton Tarrant, identifying himself as a 28-year-old Australian and white supremacist who was out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims. Police did not immediately say whether the same person was responsible for both shootings. Before Fridays attack, New Zealands deadliest shooting in modern history took place in 1990 in the small town of Aramoana, where a gunman killed 13 people following a dispute with a neighbour. brobertson@brandonsun.com, with file from The Associated Press Twitter: @BudRobertson4 QUEBEC - A little more than two years after their own community came under attack, Muslims in Quebec City said they were in shock over the mass shootings at two New Zealand mosques Friday that claimed at least 50 lives. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 16/3/2019 (999 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Quebec Islamic cultural centre president Boufeldja Benabdallah takes a moment before reacting to the deadly shooting in New Zealand, Friday, March 15, 2019 in Quebec City. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jacques Boissinot QUEBEC - A little more than two years after their own community came under attack, Muslims in Quebec City said they were in shock over the mass shootings at two New Zealand mosques Friday that claimed at least 50 lives. Their horror was echoed by members of other Muslim communities across the country as they offered condolences to the grieving families and spoke out against extremism. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned as "absolutely appalling" the attack on worshippers attending Friday prayers in Christchurch. "Hate has no place anywhere," Trudeau said in a statement. "We must all confront Islamophobia and work to create a world in which all people no matter their faith, where they live, or where they were born can feel safe and secure." Boufeldja Benabdallah, the head of the Quebec City Islamic Cultural Centre, said a feeling of "indescribable pain" was apparent in his own community. He extended condolences to the New Zealand victims and expressed concern for families in Quebec City being forced to relive the Jan. 29, 2017 attack that left six men dead. "I'm convinced they are feeling a terrible pain. Imagine the children of those families here in Quebec who are hearing it on the radio and will watch their mothers cry and ask, 'Why are you crying?' " Benabdallah said. "The mothers will remember the 29th, when they ran to get husbands who were killed by Alexandre Bissonnette." Benabdallah added that amid the mourning, it is time for people to speak out against extremism and for lawmakers to legislate against it. "We must get back to work once again to explain, to tell these extremists of all stripes who politicize religion, like extremists who use race as a basis for discrimination, that we must change," Benabdallah said. "The world cannot continue like this." During a vigil in Toronto, federal Immigration Minister Ahmed Hussen said it's important for people around the world to say no to hatred. "We have to work every single day to eradicate this hatred in our midst," Hussen told the crowd at Nathan Phillips Square, many of whom carried signs bearing slogans such as United Against Islamophobia. "And we have to tell those who peddle in this kind of hatred whether they be ordinary citizens or whether they be politicians that this is the logical extension of that hatred." Police in many cities across the country said they were stepping up patrols around places of worship on Friday and communicating with local Muslim communities about their security concerns. "We will have a heightened police presence in the community, focusing on places of worship especially mosques. We have done this to ensure the city is as safe and secure as possible," said Const. Allyson Douglas-Cook, a Toronto police spokeswoman. In Halifax, Imam Abdallah Yousri of the Umma Mosque said no special precautions were being taken, but he confirmed that the site, with a capacity of 2,000, already has a good security system. "We will have discussions about that to see how we can enhance our security systems to make sure this kind of thing doesn't happen in the future," he said in an interview. He said some members called to see whether prayers would go ahead as scheduled on Friday, and he assured them the mosque would be open. "It's always a special day on Fridays," he said. "We pray every Friday." Rabia Khedr, executive director of the Muslim Council of Peel, said the early news about Christchurch immediately brought to mind the Quebec City shooting. "I didn't sleep all night," Khedr said. "I cannot believe the number of people that have been killed, the number of people that have been injured." She said an attack on Muslims in a Western nation hits harder. "When it hits a Muslim majority country we feel sad, we feel sorrow, however that feeling is a little different in a western democracy where we are minorities," she said. "Because it's pure and utter hatred. It's Islamophobia in its ugliest form." The Islamic Supreme Council of Canada, based in Calgary, also spoke out against the attack. "This is nothing but terrorism against Muslims. This is nothing but hate against Muslims. This is nothing but Islamophobia," Imam Syed Soharwardy said in a statement. Trudeau said Canadians join New Zealanders and Muslim communities around the world in grieving and condemning the attack and work to act against violent extremism. "Far too often, Muslims suffer unimaginable loss and pain in the places where they should feel safest," Trudeau said. "Canada remembers too well the sorrow we felt when a senseless attack on the Centre culturel islamique de Quebec in Ste-Foy claimed the lives of many innocent people gathered in prayer." Mohamed Labidi, a past president of the Quebec City mosque, told reporters Friday he regretted that humanity had not learned its lesson after the attack on his community. A fellow mosque member said the question remains why these attacks continue to happen. "The reaction is the same as what we experienced already," said Alpha Barry. "We have been affected, our population is affected and we keeping asking why? Why is this happening every day?" Parliament lowered the flag on Centre Block to half-mast in honour of the victims a move followed in other provinces and cities. Vigils were also planned in various Canadian cities in memory of the victims. One man was arrested and charged with murder in what appears to have been a carefully planned racist attack in New Zealand. There are unconfirmed reports that the shooter was influenced by Bissonnette, the former Universite Laval student convicted of killing six worshippers in 2017. A now-deleted Twitter account that is believed to be linked to the accused shooter shows what appear to be three assault-rifle magazines, one of which has Bissonnette's name on it. Aymen Derbali, a survivor of the Quebec City attack who was left paralyzed, said he was devastated when he saw video of the New Zealand attack. "Certainly for me, when I saw the video this morning, it brought back what we experienced here," he said outside the mosque. "The hardest thing is that he was inspired by what happened here. He had the killer at the mosque here as an idol. It was written on his weapons." Bissonnette was sentenced to life in prison without possibility of parole for 40 years, but the Crown and his lawyers both recently announced they are appealing the sentence. Through his lawyers, Bissonnette, who is seeking a reduction of his sentence, issued a statement Friday saying he was "very affected" that his name was linked to the New Zealand attack. His lawyers said in the statement that Bissonnette's decision to appeal wasn't meant to minimize his actions. Written by Sidhartha Banerjee in Montreal with files from Michelle McQuigge in Toronto; Michael MacDonald in Halifax and Caroline Plante in Quebec City. Cabinet will next week agree a special Brexit package for hundreds of millions of euros to protect incomes, jobs, and exports, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has confirmed, writes Juno McEnroe in Chicago. Speaking in Chicago on the second leg of his St Patrick's Day US trip, Mr Varadkar said he hoped British MPs next week would still vote to agree to the Brexit deal. If they did not, Ireland was prepared for a no deal, he insisted. European Council president Donald Tusk will travel to Dublin on Tuesday where the two will discuss Brexit and a possible request from Britain to extend the March 29 deadline. European leaders will then meet at the end of next week at a Brussels summit and discuss Brexit. Speaking in Chicago after attending the St Patrick's day parade, Mr Varadkar said: On Wednesday at the Cabinet meeting, we will be in a position to sign off on a package of support for business, for farmers, for the agri-food sector, for exporters, for anyone who may be adversely affected by a no-deal Brexit. Obviously we are hoping that the deal will be ratified by the House of Commons before then but if it is not we are ready. We have already passed the legislation to provide for a no-deal Brexit. We've protected the common travel area and this package will be there to support incomes, to support jobs. It is not going to be a case of everything being alright. Brexit is bad news and a no-deal Brexit would be very bad news. But the package of supports that we will put in place is for hundreds of millions of euros and will support and protect incomes and jobs in those most exposed sectors, particularly in the agri-food sector and will also help other businesses and other exporters to be orientated away from the UK markets to other markets. And the country is in a good space to deal with this if we have to. We decided to run a budget surplus. We did that so we would have the capacity to borrow if we had to and the NTMA [National Treasury Management Agency] has built up cash reserves if we run into any turbulence on the markets. A man has been killed following a road traffic collision in Co Mayo. The fatal road traffic collision occurred at Carracanada, Swinford at 12.15pm yesterday. Two cars and a truck were involved in the collision. A 64-year-old who was driving one of the cars was pronounced dead at the scene. The deceased has been removed to Mayo University Hospital where a post mortem examination will take place. A male driver of a second car received minor injuries in the incident. The stretch of road was closed for examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators but has since reopened. Gardai wish to appeal for witnesses to contact Swinford Garda Station on 094-9252990, The Garda Confidential Telephone Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station. Photo: Alison Cassidy, CC-BY-3.0 The Rotunda Hospital is now taking patients seeking abortion from outside the Dublin area, not just its normal catchment area of North Dublin. Patients are now being accepted from as far away as Kildare and west Wicklow. Abortion Rights Campaign's Claire Brophy said geography is a major barier to women seeking a termination of pregnancy and many Irish women are still travelling long distances: "85 people have travelled from Ireland in January and February of this year to the UK for abortion access and that's something that we need to treat those people here. "We need to make abortion accessible in this country for those people." The Taoiseach will march in the Chicago St Patrick's Parade later today as his US series of engagements comes to a close. He spent last night discussing the plight of the undocumented Irish in America. Leo Varadkar's US St Patrick's week visit ends with him marching in the famous St Patrick's Day Parade in Chicago later. Happy St. Patrick's Day! Here's how orange dye turns the Chicago River green. Thanks to Plumbers Local 130 for the demo last year. @cbschicago pic.twitter.com/SxU90WouTA Ed Curran (@EdCurran) March 16, 2019 Following that, he will step aboard the Tourism Ireland Greening Boat Trip down the green river to launch a new book on the success of greening global landmarks. His series of engagements begin this morning with mass in Old St Patricks Church. The plight of the undocumented Irish and immigration reform has formed a key part of the Taoiseach's visit. Last night, he met emigrant support groups funded by the Irish government. Look who I bumped into in Chicago: none other than @MichaelRingFG whos here representing Ireland (and Mayo!) for #SPD2019 pic.twitter.com/G2hFbSdQMb Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) March 16, 2019 They discussed the E3 Visa which the government hopes will be available for Irish citizens soon. But that will not solve the problem of the undocumented Irish living in the US for years. That is something the Taoiseach says will require much more comprehensive reform. He urged Australians to "change the narrative and stand together for love" and help allay the Islamic community's fears by focusing on the many similarities different cultures and religions shared. Men take part in the early afternoon prayer at Gungahlin Mosque on Saturday. Credit:Karleen Minney Imam Hadi said the New Zealand attacks were particularly hard to come to terms with because they happened in a part of the world that prided itself on freedom of religion and expression. "One motto that we always go by in the Ahmadiyya Muslim community is Love for all, hatred for none, and we need to really start understanding that at the end of the day, were all human," he said. "It doesnt matter what faith, what race or what background youre from. We bleed the same blood and we need to start understanding that and moving forward with our shared human experience." Gungahlin Mosque and Canberra Muslim Community Incorporated president Mainul Haque echoed that sentiment. Mr Haque said his congregation was comforted by the overwhelming support shown by everyday Canberrans, other religious communities, the police and local politicians. Canberra Muslim Community president Mainul Haque at Gungahlin Mosque on Saturday afternoon. Credit:Karleen Minney "At the end of the day, we are fellow Canberrans and fellow Australians," he said. "We have a different culture, a different religion, but diversity is good. It brings richness. It is very reassuring and humbling to have all this support from our neighbours and friends in Canberra and in the region." Loading Mr Haque said Canberra was a beautiful and multicultural community that should remain that way, and commended the prime ministers of Australia and New Zealand for "calling a spade a spade" and referring to the Christchurch incidents as terror attacks. "We condemn terrorism in all its forms, regardless of its source," he said. "Terrorism has no religion and no homeland." Canberra woman Meherun Nisa, a Muslim mother of three, said explaining Friday's events to frightened children had been difficult. She said her focus was on educating the next generation that everyone was equal. "Many Muslim children were born here and we need to make them realise they are just as Aussie as everyone else, and that the mosque is still a safe place to go to." Alishiba Jadoon, 4 checks out the flowers and well wishes left by the Canberra community in support of their Muslim neighbours. Credit:Karleen Minney ACT Policing has stepped up patrols around mosques in Canberra, but advised the Muslim community there was no current threat. Chief Minister Andrew Barr joined political leaders in condemning the attacks on Saturday, saying there was no place in the capital for the abhorrent views apparently behind the New Zealand attacks. "We, as Canberrans, know our city is a progressive and inclusive place to live, and that diversity has enriched our city," Mr Barr said. "There is no place here for the abhorrent views apparently behind this attack. All Canberrans have a right to feel safe in their places of worship. We stand with our Muslim community members at this time and offer our ongoing support." Multicultural Affairs Minister Chris Steel said he would visit a mosque in Canberra during the week to reassure the Muslim community that Canberra stood for inclusion, while Deputy Chief Minister Yvette Berry visited Gungahlin Mosque on Saturday afternoon. ACT Greens leader Shane Rattenbury said he stood with those affected. In a world increasingly driven to division and fear, we will not allow the politics of hate to trump our humanity," Mr Rattenbury said. ACT Opposition leader Alistair Coe also expressed his support. "I hope we can all support the brothers and sisters in the Muslim community at this very sad time," Mr Coe said. Australian Brenton Tarrant, who authorities believe to be responsible for both Christchurch mosque shootings, has been charged with murder. The 28-year-old appeared in court in New Zealand on Saturday and was remanded in custody until April 5. Christchurch man Paul Bradley speaks to Canberra Muslim Community president Mainul Haque at Gungahlin Mosque on Saturday. Credit:Karleen Minney The attacks have rocked the world, and for the Muslim community and Christchurch residents like Paul Bradley, who wiped away tears at Gungahlin Mosque on Saturday, their effects will be felt forever. WorkSafe is investigating after a barge exploded during Saturday night's Skyfire, sending sparks flying in the direction of the crowd gathered on the shores of lake at Rond Terrace. Tens of thousands of revellers mingled along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, taking in Skyfire 2019 and celebrating community spirit. A fireworks barge explodes during Skyfire 2019. Credit:Terry Cunningham Midway through the display, it appeared as though all the fireworks on one barge ignited as sparks were sent flying in the direction of the crowd gathered on the shores of lake at Rond Terrace. The explosion occurred during Peking Duk's song Fire. An Emergency Services Agency spokesman said it was not required at the scene. I spent a little over a year working in the remote town, about 320 kilometres south-east of Darwin, as a 21-year-old cadet journalist. My friends were jetting off to Melbourne and Sydney to start their careers and it was safe to say that nobody had put the NT at the top of their bucket list. It is unsurprising that many Australians have a skewed view of the Territory, as most of the stories that flood into our capital cities detail the horror, despair and inequity that plague the region. Isolated from everyone I knew and loved, I spent much of my first week in Katherine crying and working out how long it would take me to save enough money to get back to Brisbane for a weekend. It would have taken almost two weeks wages for a plane ticket, not to mention 18 hours of travel. But it did not take long to fall in love with Katherine and its cast of cheeky, playful and hilarious characters. It was a true delight to be sitting in at one of the world's most acclaimed independent film festivals, Sundance, watching the beautiful and quirky parts of Indigenous and Territory culture played out on the big screen. The love letter to the NT that is Top End Wedding joined a contingent of six Australian films that premiered at Sundance this year. The festival, started by Robert Redford, has a history of launching Australian hits such as Casting JonBenet (2017), Animal Kingdom (2010) and Wolf Creek (2005) and introducing Australian creatives to the US market. The film, co-written, produced and starring Deadly Award-winning Indigenous actress Miranda Tapsell, showcases the sheer natural beauty of the NT. It's been a labour of love for me and having the opportunity to showcase the Northern Territory to an international audience, through a different lens, at such a prestigious festival, makes this such a rewarding experience, Tapsell said. The Top End as a whole is a comedy writers dream. There are people swimming in crocodile-infested waters, jackaroos and jillaroos clasping tinnies of beer while they draft cattle, and locals celebrating the end of the working week with backyard fireworks - for no particular reason. Those things, combined with Territory time when your party starts at 6pm but no one arrives until 11pm, or you arrange a 12-hour road trip and your ride doesnt show - provide the perfect canvas for a comedy of errors-style flick. The raucous and frequent laughter at the Utah screening defied the cliche that American audiences favour obvious humour. It was however, a risk to premiere the homegrown film at Sundance, as the script was laden with Territory colloquialisms and Indigenous slang. But the deadly and shell be right attitude of the NT translated perfectly onto the screen in Top End Wedding - and the American audiences lapped it up. While the movie was clearly a hit with the woman in the bathroom, critics gave mixed reviews to the predictable but charming feature. Miranda Tapsell and Gwilym Lee in a scene from Top End Wedding. Describing it as a crowd-pleaser that fits the wedding film mould, Screen International said it was a bright and breezy flick but also as formulaic as its tale of whirlwind nuptials, family dysfunction and finding ones place in the world. Uproxxs Vince Mancini found it pretty corny, but conceded like most romantic comedies, you dont see Top End Wedding because of the groundbreaking storytelling. Theres a cultural richness to it, a wonder in the sound of the languages being spoken, and a beauty of place that you wont find in many movies, he wrote. So while the film may not be a genre-defining cinematic revolution, most people left the cinema with a smile on their face. Top End Wedding shooting on location in the Northern Territory. Other women eavesdropping during my bathroom tete-a-tete emerged from their cubicles brimming with questions about life in the Top End after spending two hours in the cinema developing a crush on the Australian outback. Places such as Katherine are the types of hidden gems that are under-appreciated by most of Australia but captivating to Americans. So even though an Indigenous rom-com is not the kind of movie you would immediately expect to leave an audience in the heart of Mormon country in stitches, it was a hit. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size When Andy Thomas was a boy in suburban Adelaide in the 1960s, he saw a man walk on the moon, and he suddenly knew what he wanted to be when he grew up. The difference between him and thousands of other children around the world is he actually became an astronaut, the first professional astronaut from Australia. To join NASA, however, he had to become a US citizen, but with Australia now taking its first tentative steps towards setting up our own space industry, Mr Thomas said he hopes the next generation of children can reach for the stars without having to leave home. Theres a very intangible but significant benefit from having these kinds of activities as part of a national agenda: it inspires a whole generation, Dr Thomas said. Dr Andy Thomas hopes the next generation of Australian children can reach for the stars without having to go to another country. It helps steer the intellectual prowess of the country in a very healthy direction, and thats the intangible return that these kinds of activities can bring back theyre hard to quantify but theyre significant. Dr Thomas is coming to Brisbane from Wednesday to take part in the World Science Festival, speaking at a number of events with a focus on the next phase of space exploration and Australias place in the broader push outwards to the stars. Advertisement Australia has always had a connection and fascination with space, stretching back to at least 1962, when Muchea Tracking Station helped NASA Mercury astronaut John Glenn become the first American to orbit the Earth. Currently, the global space economy is worth $US345 billion ($487 billion) annually and rapidly growing. The local space-related industry is already worth $3.9 billion, with the federal government setting up the Australian Space Agency in 2018 to oversee the sector and encourage growth and investment. Unlike its US counterpart, the ASA doesnt do a lot of direct government-funded space projects, but acts more as a facilitator for private sector research. ASA deputy head Anthony Murfett said Australia was uniquely placed to catch up to some of the bigger nations, despite being late to the space race. Anthony Murfett, deputy head of the Australian Space Agency, said Queensland was a good fit for the space industry. Credit:Sitthixay Ditthavong I think were coming in at the right time, thanks to that rapid transformation of the commercial sector, Mr Murfett said. Advertisement Areas such as our great position in the southern hemisphere, which means we see a unique part of the sky, [and] areas such as our mining and resources sector, which uses tech around automation and robotics; we can actually transition that technology into space, because its more accessible. Loading Nationally, there has been significant startup activity around the space sector, with the Queensland market getting a boost recently with the release of two state-government-commissioned reports showing the sector could be worth billions to Queensland alone. State Development Minister Cameron Dick said last month that Queensland was the natural home for an Australian-based space industry and promised to continue to focus on establishing a foothold for the sector. Mr Murfett agreed Queensland was a good fit for the needs of the industry. Weve been seeing this as weve travelled around and spoken to all jurisdictions, that space is now an important part of the economy as we go forward, he said. We look forward to working with the Queensland government on helping them grow the space industry in Queensland. Advertisement The local space industry wont see skyscraper-sized rockets blasting towards the heavens, at least not at first. Instead, it will be focused on helping people back on Earth do things more efficiently. South-east Queensland company Gilmour Space Technologies is currently refining its orbital launch vehicle, which is designed to put mini-satellites into orbit. The small devices, many no larger than a mobile phone, can be used for a range of purposes, including data collection and monitoring. Farmers are already using satellites to monitor their flocks of sheep in southern Queensland, while scientists are using them to track drought data. Gilmour Space founder Adam Gilmour said the space sector was the next frontier for the economy and jobs in Australia. Gilmour Space Technologies CEO Adam Gilmour, left, with brother and company director James, said the company has plans to add another thousand space industry jobs over the next few years. Advertisement Investment banks in the US put out a report last year comparing the development of small satellites to the invention of elevators in Manhattan, and what happened to buildings in New York after that, Mr Gilmour said. People also compare it to the beginning of the World Wide Web; I dont think when that first arrived people thought there would be Facebook and Google on the back of that. Space will be the same; there are companies and businesses we havent even thought of yet, but because we have access to cheaper technology, the doors open. Gilmour Space has plans to add another thousand jobs over the next few years, with the ASA predicting 10,000 jobs could be created in the next few years alone in the space-related industry. While the commercial sector is seen as the future of the space industry in Queensland, there are still those who are pursuing science for its own sake, although, like Andy Thomas, they have to go overseas to do it. David Flannery has spent the past four-and-a-half years working at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California, and remains a member of the NASA Mars 2020 Rover Mission Science Team. Artist's depiction of Mars 2020 Rover, which now-Brisbane-based David Flannery helped to develop. Credit:NASAJPL-Caltech Advertisement The gun lobby says gaps in Australias firearm laws are putting people at risk, as it lashes out at the failure of Canberra to act on a national gun register in the wake of the deadliest terror attack in New Zealand's history. The Shooting Industry Foundation of Australia said it is not afraid of a backlash towards Australian gun owners in the wake of the attack, citing local gun restrictions as among the strictest in the world. But it said a national firearms registry was now 20 years overdue and urgently needed to stop guns moving untraced between states and compromising the safety of Australians. Semi-automatic rifles are banned to anyone outside of the military in Australia. Credit:Luke Sharrett The number of registered firearms in NSW alone has exceeded one million for the first time in two decades after 90,000 guns were registered in the last two years, figures released by Gun Control Australia reveal. That is one gun for every eight people, compared to one for every four in New Zealand. There is no comparable data available for Victoria. The Morrison government has banned Milo Yiannopoulos from entering Australia after the controversial right-wing commentator responded to the New Zealand mosque massacre by describing Islam as a "barbaric" and "alien" religious culture. The ban will be the third position the government has held in as many weeks on whether to allow the controversial figure to travel to Australia for a speaking tour later this year. Milo Yiannopoulos. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen In early March, senior Coalition figures supported a preliminary Department of Home Affairs plan to deny Mr Yiannopoulos a visa, before backflipping three days later amid a backlash from some Liberal Party MPs and conservative media outlets. That decision was reviewed on Saturday morning following Friday's terrorist attack at two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch. Opposition Leader Bill Shorten says Fridays Christchurch massacre, in which 49 people were allegedly murdered by an Australian gunman, shows it is time to stop giving "oxygen" to "evil jokers at the margins" who perpetrate hate. Not all right-wing extremist hate speech ends in violence, but all right-wing extremist violence started in hate speech, Mr Shorten told a gathering of the Islamic Council of Victoria. The group's members met on Saturday at their West Melbourne headquarters in the wake of the massacre. Opposition Leader Bill Shorten at the Islamic Council of Victoria's West Melbourne headquarters on Saturday. Credit:Luis Enrique Ascui As Mr Shorten spoke, on the other side of Melbourne, Queensland senator Fraser Anning addressed a rally of about100 supporters outside a Moorabbin industrial park and defended his Friday comments that Muslim immigration was to blame for the Christchurch shootings. Aggressive patients and families are lashing out at doctors and nurses, with reports that domestic violence is spilling over into the state's hospitals. There were 5514 acts of aggression towards Queensland Health staff last financial year an increase of almost 50 per cent from two years earlier. Disturbingly, violence was meted out even against staff caring for the state's most vulnerable children, with reported incidents at Children's Health Queensland more than doubling to 99 last year. Attacks also spiked on the Gold Coast, at Metro South, the Sunshine Coast and Townsville. It was June 2011, and the chief executive officer of Airbus SE was on a stage at the Paris air show after the planemaker won in a matter of days an unprecedented 600 orders for its upgraded A320neo airliner, while Boeing Co. stood on the sidelines. If our colleagues in Seattle still maintain were only catching up with their 737, I must ask myself what these guys are smoking, Enders blurted out, to the general amusement of the audience, while Boeing representatives at the back of the room looked ... 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 Boeing Co plans to release upgraded software for its 737 MAX in a week to 10 days, sources familiar with the matter said. The U.S. planemaker has been working on a software upgrade for an anti-stall system and pilot displays on its fastest-selling jetliner in the wake of the deadly Lion Air crash in Indonesia in October. Similarities between the flight path in the Lion Air incident and Sunday's Ethiopian Airlines crash have raised fresh questions about the system, but so far there is no evidence on whether the same software is again a potential issue. Asked about the ... 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 Cash-strapped Indian carrier Jet Airways' pilots union has for the first time sought the government's help to recover pending salaries and dues from the airline after their pleas to the management have fallen on "deaf ears." In a letter to India's labour minister, National Aviators Guild, which represents the majority of Jet's pilots, has asked that the airline immediately pay their outstanding salaries and allowances till date with interest. "This situation is leading to extreme tension and frustration amongst our members, hardly an ... The US and two other permanent Security Council members, France and Britain, are believed to be in intense "good faith" discussions with China to arrive at a "compromise" on the UN designation of Jaish chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. And if that effort does not end up in the formal designation of Azhar, the three permanent members are planning to soon move a resolution for his listing in the most powerful wing of the UN which would be preceded by an open debate on the issue, according to people familiar with the matter. On Wednesday, China blocked ... The chances of winning is certainly a relevant criteria and will remain so. Q:Are you thinking of a shake-up in ticket distribution to counter themahagathbandhan? There is no set formula, those with maximum chances of winning will naturally get tickets. We are in politics after all Q: Is there a possibility of fielding fresh faces in Haryana, Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir? The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is a cadre-based party with maximum flexibility. ... 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 Excerpted from An Elegant Defense: The Extraordinary New Science of the Immune System, published on Tuesday by William Morrow. Should you pick your nose? Dont laugh. Scientifically, its an interesting question. Should your children pick their noses? Should your children eat dirt? Maybe: Your body needs to know what immune challenges lurk in the immediate environment. Should you use antibacterial soap or hand sanitizers? No. Are we taking too many antibiotics? Yes. I tell people, when they drop food on the floor, please pick it up ... Subsidies will be granted to lure talent from outside mainland China to support development of the Greater Bay Area, a project aimed at deepening integration between Hong Kong and southern Guangdong province, the Ministry of Finances tax bureau said on Saturday. The subsidies will be provided in nine cities in southern China to individuals from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan and other parts of the world, according to a document released by the bureau. The difference in personal income tax between the mainland and Hong Kong will be a factor determining the level of subsidy, it ... New Zealand police continue to respond to events following shootings at two mosques in central Christchurch. The national security threat level has been lifted to high. Mosques across New Zealand have been closed and police are asking people to refrain from visiting. So far, 49 people have been killed. According to media reports, 41 people were fatally shot at the Masjid Al Noor mosque on Deans Avenue; others died at a second mosque nearby. Four people, three men and a woman, have been taken into custody in connection with the shootings. One man in his late 20s has been charged ... France's air accident investigation agency said on Saturday it had resumed work analysing the black boxes from an Ethiopian Airways plane that crashed last week, in coordination with teams from Boeing as well as U.S. and EU aviation safety authorities. The black boxes data should provide answers to why the Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft hurtled into the ground minutes after take off last Sunday from Addis Ababa, killing 157 people. The French agency said that, in addition to Boeing, teams were also attending from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board, Federal ... Automakers, in quick succession, have moved in recent weeks to end parts of their operations in Europe. Nissan is the latest: On Tuesday, it confirmed that it would cease assembling Infiniti cars at its plant in northeast England. The moves, during Britains wrenching debate over its departure from the European Union, known as Brexit, have raised the question: Is Brexit forcing the carmaking industry out of Britain? Its not quite so simple. Traditional car manufacturers, in Britain and in Europe over all, have been buffeted by forces around the world, and they ... The Trump administration has requested consultations with South Korea under the two nations' free trade pact to try to resolve US concerns about procedures in competition hearings held by a South Korean trade commission. "Some of these hearings have denied US parties certain rights, including the opportunity to review and rebut the evidence against them," the Office of the US Trade Representative said in a statement. "Denial of this fundamental right undermines their ability to defend themselves." The Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) in December 2016 fined ... More than 300 Boeing 737 MAX 8 and MAX 9 passenger jets around the world have been taken out of service following two fatal crashes over the past five months in Ethiopia and Indonesia that killed almost 350 people in all. The causes of both crashes are still under investigation. One of the biggest unanswered questions: Was the planes software to blame? WHAT WE KNOW - Boeing has stopped delivery of all new MAX jets to its customers. - Satellite data gathered from the Ethiopian Airlines flight and evidence from the crash site showed similarities with a Lion ... Delhi Police on Saturday arrested a man for allegedly raping a 3-year-old girl in Punjabi Bagh area of the capital. The man has been identified as the father of victim's tuition teacher. Speaking to ANI, Delhi Deputy Commissioner of Police said, "A 3-year-old girl was raped in Punjabi Bagh area allegedly by the father of the tuition teacher living in the victim's neighbourhood. The accused has been arrested." An FIR has been registered under the relevant section of the Indian Penal Code. Further investigation in the matter is underway. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Aditya Roy Kapur is all set to reunite with his 'Ashiqui 2' director Mohit Suri for their next project 'Malang.' To start the journey with some good luck, the actor-director duo conducted a ceremonial 'pooja' before beginning with the shoot. Earlier today, Aditya shared a photo on his Instagram account, in which he can be seen sitting with the director, performing pooja. "On a new journey with the man that changed it all for me," the actor wrote referring to his film 'Aashiqui 2' which was also directed by Mohit Suri and is considered to be one of his best works so far. Apart from Aditya, the multi-starrer film will also feature Anil Kapoor, Disha Patani and Kunal Kemmu. The film is said to be a blend of romance, action, and thrill. It will be shot in various exotic locations including Mauritius and Goa. The film is scheduled to hit the theatres on February 14, 2020. Aditya Roy Kapur will currently be seen in 'Kalank' which releases on April 17, 2019. The film is a multi-starrer period drama which will feature Madhuri Dixit, Sanjay Dutt, Alia Bhatt, and Varun Dhawan playing pivotal roles. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Before blowing the campaign bugle for the ensuing Lok Sabha and Assembly elections from Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu along with his wife Nara Bhuvaneshwari offered prayers at his residence here on Saturday. The Andhra Chief Minister prayed for the victory of his Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections and also for the well being of the Telugu people. After offering the prayers, he left for Tirupati with his wife Nara Bhuvaneshwari and son Nara Lokesh. He is scheduled to launch his campaign for Assembly elections after paying the visit to Lord Venkateswara Temple situated in Tirumala. Andhra Pradesh will go to polls in a single phase on April 11. Both the Lok Sabha and legislative assembly polls will be held in the state simultaneously. The State Assembly has 175 seats while Parliamentary elections will be held in all 25 seats. This will be the first assembly elections in the region post-bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An Australian senator has stirred up a controversy after he linked the deadly terror attacks at two mosques in New Zealand's Christchurch city with "immigration program which allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place." Immediately after the senator made this statement, a teenager smashed a raw egg on the back side of the lawmaker's head, according to a video that went viral on social media. Hours after the terror attack, Queensland Senator Fraser Anning, had issued a statement on March 15 condemning the "actions of the gunman", adding that he was "utterly opposed to any form of violence within our community." However, Fraser said: "However, whilst this kind of violent vigilantism can never be justified, what it highlights is the growing fear within our community, both in Australia and New Zealand, of the increasing Muslim presence." "The real cause of bloodshed on New Zealand streets today is the immigration program which allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place," he said. He then made anti-Islam comments, saying the faith is the "religious equivalent of fascism". During an event in Melbourne on Saturday, Anning was speaking to reporters at the sidelines, when a teenager filming him smashed a raw egg on the back side of the lawmaker's head, according to a video that went viral on social media. Infuriated, Anning was seen landing blows on the boy's face and was taking another swing before the two were separated. The teenager was heckled by the authorities following the incident, the footage showed. A political reporter of Australia's ABC News, Henry Belot, posted the video on his Twitter handle. . (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Balabhadra Majhi, BJD MP from Nabarangpur in Odisha, on Saturday joined the BJP here. Only recently he had announced to quit the BJD. Majhi joined the BJP at the party headquarters in the presence of Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan and recently appointed vice president Baijayanta Panda. The party leaders expressed confidence that Majhi's joining will boost the BJP's prospects in the state in ensuing Lok Sabha and Assembly polls. Majhi also met BJP president Amit Shah later in the day. Panda, a former BJD leader, joined the BJP on March 4. He had resigned from the BJD around nine months ago after differences cropped between him and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. Several senior leaders from various parties have defected to the BJP in the past a few days. Some of the high profile defections include Tom Vadakkan, a long-time aide of Sonia Gandhi who joined the BJP questioning the Congress party for its reaction to the air strike against JeM in Pakistan. TMC MP Anupam Hazda, Congress MLA Dulal Chandra Bar and CPM MLA Khagen Murmu are some of the other big names who have defected to the BJP recently. The legislative and general elections are slated to be conducted simultaneously in Odisha in four phases between April 11 and April 29. On March 10, the Election Commission of India announced that the Lok Sabha elections will be conducted in seven phases. The results will be declared on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Friday lashed out at Jaganmohan Reddy alleging that the latter was trying to gain political mileage by blaming him for the "murder" of YS Vivekananda Reddy, the uncle of the YSR Congress Party president chief. Vivekananda Reddy, a former Lok Sabha member was found dead at his residence in Pulivendula town of Kadapa district in the wee hours of Friday. The younger brother of late Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Rajasekhar Reddy is survived by his wife and a daughter. Naidu, who visited his son Nara Lokesh's constituency in Amaravati on Friday, said: "Jaganmohan Reddy is trying to hide the facts and gain political mileage from the murder of YS Vivekananda Reddy." "Not only YSR Congress but his family members should answer all the questions raised after the murder of Vivekananda Reddy," he said adding that "I am not saying the family members are culprits but someone had tried to destroy forensic evidence and suspicions are arising on them." YSR Congress president on Friday accused the TDP of orchestrating Vivekananda Reddy's "murder" and demanded a CBI probe in the matter. "When my grandfather YS Raja Reddy was murdered TDP was in power, when there was an attempt on my life at Vizag airport, TDP was in power and when this murder happened, TDP was again in power. Two days before the helicopter crash in which my father Dr YS Rajasekhara Reddy died, Chandrababu Naidu told the assembly that you (YSR) will not return," he said after paying tributes to YS Vivekananda Reddy on Friday. Targeting Jaganmohan Reddy for demanding CBI inquiry in the case, Naidu said: "If state police will investigate then the criminals will be caught. After the murder of a family member, clearing off evidence is definitely a crime. It is unfortunate that such criminals are in politics. Now they are demanding a CBI probe. But in the first place why did they destroy evidence." "When you say you don't have faith in the state police, do you maintain a private army?" he asked YSR Congress chief. Naidu further alleged that if the case is given to the CBI, the Centre will save them. "Who brought the body out of the bathroom? Who washed bedroom? Without autopsy why the body was moved? These are some questions that needed to be answered. Now a letter is produced by family members, pointing towards the driver. Where this letter came from? Jagan is levelling allegations on us. Tomorrow, he is going to meet the governor, which is just another part of his drama," Naidu asserted. Earlier on Friday, Naidu also ordered to constitute a special investigation team (SIT) immediately to investigate the case and to immediately arrest the accused in the matter. He said, "No accused should be spared whatever may be their stature." YS Vivekananda Reddy was elected as an MLA from Pulivendula constituency in 1989 and 1994. He became a Member of Parliament from Kadapa Lok Sabha seat in 1999 and 2004. In 2009, he was elected as MLC. He also served as Agriculture Minister of Andhra Pradesh and later resigned from Congress party and joined YSRCP. Following Reddy's death, his personal assistant Krishna Reddy lodged a complaint with the police expressing his suspicions on his death. Krishna claimed that Vivekananda's body was found in a pool of blood with injuries on his head and hand. Based on the complaint, police have filed a case of suspicious death and are investigating. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Chief Minister Kamal Nath on Saturday said the Congress is going to win as many as 23 Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh where 29 seats are at stake. "We are expecting to win at least 23 seats in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections," Chief Minister Nath told reporters here. Talking about the party's strategy, he said: "We will share with the people what the Congress has done in the past 85 days. BJP governments have only disappointed the people of Madhya Pradesh." When asked from where Digvijaya Singh will contest the Lok Sabha election, Chief Minister Nath said: "He will decide on his own. I have requested him to contest from one of the toughest seats which Congress has been losing for the last 30-35 years." Congress has not announced its list of candidates for Madhya Pradesh. However, Chief Minister Nath said that the list will be out in two to three days. "Approximately 22 lakh farmers' loans have been waived off. The process will be completed after the elections," he said. Nath is a nine-time Lok Sabha MP who has held key positions in Congress-led UPA government before 2014. He was MP from Chhindwara constituency before he assumed the chief minister's office. Congress had won only three parliaments seats out 29 in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. In Madhya Pradesh, the poll for 29 Lok Sabha seats will be held in four phases --April 29, May 6, May 12, and May 19. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Delhi Court on Saturday directed the Tihar jail authorities to submit CCTV footage containing visuals from February 13 to 17 of jail number 7 where AgustaWestland accused 'middleman' Christian Michel is lodged to ascertain allegations of torture and humiliation leveled by Michel. The matter will be next heard on March 19. On March 11, the Delhi court sought a reply from the Director General (DG) of Prison seeking directions to shift the accused from the high-security cell to a normal cell, after he contended that he had been kept in an isolation ward with Kashmiri terrorists and 160 other high-risk prisoners. To rubbish the allegations put forth by the accused, Tihar jail authorities, on March 14, produced CCTV footage from March 8th to 12th before the court. In its reply to the court, the Tihar Jail authorities denying all the charges said that Michel has been granted all the facilities in accordance with the jail manual. Showing a hard disk to the court containing the CCTV footage, the law officer said," The footage shows that he has been allowed to walk, access canteen and also meet other inmates." Law officer of the jail also handed over a list of facilities being provided to Michel in a single cell in the jail. "This is not isolation as he goes out to eat and is allowed to meet other inmates," the authorities said. Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) DP Singh told the court,"He is a foreigner brought through extradition. This is a responsibility of the country to ensure his security as per the treaty." Michel, who was extradited from the UAE in December last year, is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with the CBI and ED cases against him related to the AgustaWestland deal. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Danish Ali, who was the general secretary of the Janata Dal (Secular) until recently, joined the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Saturday. Ali joined the BSP in the presence of the party's general secretary Satish Mishra in Lucknow. He was seen as one of the top leaders in JD(S) and was also involved in preparing the list of probable candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. When asked about the reason for leaving JD (S), Ali said his ideologies match with those of the BSP. "Despite all my efforts, I could not have raised it in my 'janmabhoomi, my 'karmabhoomi'....The way in which there is a threat to the constitution today, it has become essential to use our energy with strong leadership," Ali told ANI. "My ideology matches with Mayawati's ideology. We both strive to uplift the poor and weaker sections of the society. I now want to invest my energy for making the lives of the poor better." Speaking about his role and responsibility in the BSP, Ali stated, "I never asked for anything even when I was in JD(S), it was up to HD Deve Gowda ji to decide what work to assign me. I have come here after taking the blessings and permission of Deve Gowda ji. I will work wherever Behen ji (Mayawati) assigns me. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Defence Ministry is soon going to decide the fate of the Rs 1,800 crore deal for buying over 93,000 close quarter carbines for the Indian Army at a high level meeting scheduled to take place this week, said a source. A firm from United Arab Emirates has been selected as the lowest bidder for the contract but after receiving several representations in the case, the Defence Ministry has formed an oversight committee to look into the case. A senior Lieutenant General-rank officer has been appointed as the member of the committee including other members from the Defence Ministry and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). "A high level meeting of the Defence Ministry is scheduled to be briefed on the programme to replace the existing vintage carbines of the Indian Army under which the weapons were to be procured under fast track procurement procedures," government sources told ANI. The government has already finalised contracts for buying two types of modern assault rifles for the Army and now it has to decide on the fate of the carbine deal. On lines of the assault rifles, government is thinking of meeting the urgent requirement of carbines through foreign vendors and then meet the complete requirement through a Make in India programme where more than three lakh carbines would be manufactured at an Indian facility. The new carbines being procured are set to replace the 9 mm Sterling carbines which are being gradually phased out. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Delhi Police on Saturday arrested three people in connection with illegally selling alcohol here. The issue came to light when a police patrolling party discovered a shop in the vicinity illegally selling alcohol to passersby. Accused have been identified as - Nasin Malik, Ram Chandra and Nisaar Ahmad. "We have arrested three people under Rule 40 of the Delhi Excise Act of 2009. They were found selling alcohol near a shop named 'Jishaan Kaathi Roll and Kebab'," said police in a statement. Further investigation in the matter is underway. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Deputy Election Commissioner Sudeep Jain on Saturday met the representatives of Trinamool Congress (TMC), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Indian Congress (INC) ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. TMC's Partha Chatterjee, BJP's Mukul Roy and Congress' Pradeep Bhattacharaya attended the meeting. "We have proposed to assign media observers ahead of the elections," said Bhattacharaya. "The proposal of allocating CCTV cameras at poll booths was also put forth." He said TMC leaders including ministers are trying to instil fear-psychosis among people. "We have requested the Election Commission to check this." On Friday, the Election Commission held a meeting of the Multi-Departmental Committee on Election Intelligence. Heads of tax boards, law enforcement agencies, central paramilitary forces and representatives of financial institutions attended the meeting. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) working president Hemant Soren met Congress president Rahul Gandhi here on Saturday over seat sharing issue in Jharkhand. Sources maintained that Congress will contest in seven seats, JMM four, Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (JVM) two and RJD in one seat. After the meeting, Soren said: "All things have been decided and Shibu Soren will formally announce it after the Holi". Three times Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren is the president of JMM and also represented the Dumka constituency of the state in the 14th Lok Sabha. According to sources, JVM president Babu Lal Marandi is likely to meet Rahul Gandhi in the evening over the same issue. Jharkhand will vote in fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh phase of polling to be held on April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19, respectively. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India extended support for the priority areas set out by Brazil, especially the BRICS cooperation on counter-terrorism, during first BRICS Sherpa meeting held here on March 14 and 15. The Indian delegation was led by Secretary (ER), TS Tirumurti for the meeting, held under the Presidency of Brazil. "Brazil has identified countering terrorism as one of its priority areas for BRICS under its presidency. Brazil's priorities for its Presidency includes inter-alia science, technology, and innovation, digital economy, New Development Bank and BRICS Business Council as well as countering transnational crime and terrorism," an official statement outlined. India conveyed its support for the priority areas, particularly to take forward BRICS cooperation on counter-terrorism in a meaningful and concrete manner with BRICS member countries. "India also underlined the need to take forward inter-alia people-to-people cooperation, cooperation in science and technology and innovation, and also in health and traditional medicine," the statement outlined. BRICS brings together five major emerging economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - comprising 43 per cent of the population, having 37 per cent of the gross domestic product (GDP) and 17 per cent share in the trade, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). India is one of the founder-nations of the association. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pakistani Christians living in parts of Europe held a protest rally in Geneva to raise their voice against Islamic hardliners who are persecuting minorities in the name of blasphemy. The protesters including women and children carried out a rally from Palais Wilson, the current headquarters of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to Broken Chair, during the 40th session of the UN Human Rights Council. They demanded that the Pakistan government must abolish the 'dangerous' law misused by the state and non-state actors to target the minorities. Frank John, a Pakistani Christian and Chairman of Drumchapel Asian Forum in NW Glasgow, said: "We are unhappy with the functioning of the government in Pakistan because the mindset of 'maulvis' (Islamic hardliners) towards Christians is immoral. Every day, atrocities are being committed against our children, especially girls, which is not acceptable. Our girls are being kidnapped by misusing PPC 295C and they are converted into Islam." He added: "Every person in Pakistan is unhappy with Act 295C because we always remain in fear of its misuse. If we have an altercation with any person, they put us under PPC 295C. This is a dangerous law and needs to be abolished." Christians in Pakistan have been facing systematic persecution as not only their churches were being targetted but also girls who are being kidnapped and forcibly converted into Islam. Samuel Aziz, Head of Overseas Pakistani Christian Association in Germany said: "We are protesting here as we are not getting our rights in Pakistan because of fundamentalist forces." He added, "We have a demand that this law (blasphemy) should be abolished. These incidents get exposed at international level. In the case of Asiya Bibi, we are thankful to the Supreme Court of Pakistan that she got justice because of government's efforts. The government is not abolishing this law but is helping us to get justice. But, since there are fundamentalist forces, we are facing persecution." Many members of European Parliamentarians and human rights activists also joined the protest by Pakistani Christians. Dr Mario Silva, Executive Chairman of International Forum for Rights and Security said: "Pakistan systematically discriminates against minorities. Christians are particularly targetted by the blasphemy law. Christian persecution is a real threat to democracy and it's a real threat to human rights. It's something the community needs to take a look at. "I do believe what's happening is a slow genocide which will eventually eliminate all Christians from the country. Last, the government does something about the fundamentalism that spread into the system both in the education system, political system and social system in the country. It will never be able to fully functionalise democracy." He added, "The state has a responsibility to protect its minorities rather destroying them. They have to go against the perpetrators of crimes against Christians. There are attacks on Christians, suicide bombings are taking place and the government is doing nothing to investigate the persecution of Christians in the country." Criticising the blasphemy law, Dr Mario said: "Blasphemy law should in fact never be a part of any democratic system of government because blasphemy law is meant to target minorities. It was designed to target the Christian minority and also Ahmadiyya community as well. These communities are suffering a lot because of the blasphemy law. Because the blasphemy law is there, it has led to intolerance. It has led to the growth of extremists in the country who continue to use this as a tool to harass, intimidate and jail minorities in the country." Christians make up less than two per cent of the population in Pakistan. Their numbers are decreasing as many of them are migrating to other countries for their safety. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) JITO's biggest trade fair & conclave. Dedicated StartUp pavillion and committed funding by JIIF-JITO of US$ 1 Million to deserving StartUps. JITO apex donated Rs 3.06 Crore towards the cause of Pulwama martyr (Veer Jawans). To celebrate 12th foundation day of Jain International Trade Organisation (JITO), entire JITO Mumbai Zone, comprising of 11 JITO Chapters and its members came together to organize 'JITO UDAAN 2019'. It has been a 3-day Trade Fair and Conclave from March 15 to 17, 2019 spread over more than 2 lakh square feet area at NESCO, Mumbai. The Fair was inaugurated by Amruta Devendra Fadnavis. More than 50,000 visitors from all over India & overseas are expected to participate in 'JITO UDAAN 2019'. "It was an excellent platform for all Industrialists, Businessmen, Professionals, Manufacturers, Real Estate Developers, Retailers, Traders, Dealers & Start-up Ventures from India and abroad to exhibit their products & services. There was a dedicated pavilion for Gems & Jewellery, Real Estate, high-end fashion wear & Constructions and Start-ups. A dedicated Start-up Pavilion with 50 stalls along with committed funding by JITO Innovation and Incubation Foundation & JITO (JIIF-JITO) of US$ 1 Million (Rs. 7 Crore) was provided for deserving Start-ups. It was a unique platform to engage and connect with New Vendors, Suppliers, Retailers, franchising, distributorship, JVs etc. and hire talented employees. The event is based on the concept of sadharmik bhakti where one community member tries to help his fellow member grow his and economic empowerment, " said Hitesh Doshi, Chairman of JITO Mumbai Zone (Chairman of Waaree Group of Companies). There have been more than 500 stalls. Special counters have been provided for the home industry and cottage industry. Jain Pavillion was a big attraction for visitors. It was an overwhelming experience to observe 55-inch tall idol of Jain Tirthankar Munisuvrat Swami made out of 'KAKANILI" gems. Besides, several Jain Idols made of rare gemstones were a sight to behold in Jain Pavillion. Job Fair has been also arranged. JITO has tied with Times Accent for better job opportunities for the youth. Z NATION LAB has organized JIIF IDEATHON for upcoming entrepreneurs. For one to one meetings, a separate conference room has been provided. Seminars were planned on various subjects like fundraising on SME exchange, 10 big businesses of this decade, growth barriers in family business and succession planning, e-commerce business avenue etc. On 17th March, seminars were planned on industries like real estate & construction, gems & jewellery, textile & garments, plastic & packaging, pharmaceutical & chemical. 'JITO UDAAN 2019' will also comprise of Foreign Consulate Pavilion, Youth Entrepreneurship Summit, JBN Trade Meetings, CEO Conclave, and Professional Forums. There will be a unique pavilion for Jain NGOs to enable them to showcase their activities and interact with visitors to garner necessary support for their activities. This story is provided by BusinessWireIndia. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With Lok Sabha elections inching closer, the overseas wing of the Bharatiya Janata Party and Congress parties are actively garnering support from the Indian diaspora with rallies across the UK. Both Indian Overseas Congress and the Overseas Friends of the BJP are set to organise car and motorbike rallies across the UK on Saturday. European racing champion Advait Devadhar will also take part in BJP's car and bike rallies. The BJP has already organised motorcycle rally earlier this week. According to BJP schedule, car rallies will take place in places including in Glasgow, Birmingham and central London on Saturday at 12 noon(local time) while a "flash mob," event will take place in the first week of April for central London. Congress will hold a car rally from 9 am on Saturday. The rally will start from the Gandhi statue located at the Parliament Square and pass through areas such as Southall, Leicester and Birmingham. Secretary of Overseas Congress in London, Varendra Vashisht, organizer of the car rally told ANI that the campaign to mobilize the support of Indian living abroad for the Lok Sabha elections is being accelerated with the car rallies. "In the coming days, such programs will be organized in many more cities. The Congress has tried to bring about the support of 5,000 NRIs (Non-resident Indian and person of Indian origin) in the party's campaign in London and India. We have asked them to visit India to vote for us as it is important for the future of India and to save and strengthen democracy," he said. The Congress has been very active in case of publicity among the NRI community. In the last two years, Congress president Rahul Gandhi has travelled from America to Dubai and addressed diaspora there . The Congress had organized a program in Dubai in February, to seek suggestions from the NRI community, for the party's manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections. The Overseas Congress President Sam Pitroda has been actively participating in various events organised in different parts of the world where a large number of Indian nationals reside. The Overseas BJP has been campaigning strongly in support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Earlier, programmes like Bike Rally, Namo-T etc were organised in London. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) supremo Jitan Ram Manjhi on Saturday said that his party has asked for five seats from the 'Mahagathbandhan' out of 40 Lok Sabha seats at stake in the state. Addressing a press conference after the party's parliamentary board meeting here, Manjhi said: "We are second only to the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) in terms of the support base in the state. If we get five seats, our problems will be resolved." When asked about the Congress getting 11 seats, he said: "Whatever the Congress is saying about 11 seats is not final." President of HAM's Parliamentary board Santosh Manjhi said: "We had asked for 5 seats. We've agreed for 3-4 seats. Talks are going on. The final meeting is about to be held in Patna on March 18." Bihar will go to polls in all seven phases on April 11, 18, 23, April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19. The results would be announced on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A man from Hyderabad, who was missing since Friday following the "well-planned" terror attack on Al Noor mosque in Christchurch in New Zealand, has been declared dead by the authorities in New Zealand on Saturday. The deceased, named Farhaj Ahsan, went to the mosque for Friday's prayers but went missing after the attacks. Ahsan's father had earlier told ANI: "My son went to the mosque to offer Friday prayers. My son has not returned yet." Meanwhile, the family members of the deceased are planning to go to New Zealand. Nobody was willing to speak to the media amid the sad reports of Ashan's death. In the worst ever terror attack in New Zealand, multiple gunmen carried out indiscriminate shootings at two mosques in Christchurch during the Friday prayers, leaving 49 people dead and at least 48 wounded. Using automatic weapons, the gunmen, four of whom have been taken into custody, launched a "well-planned" attack on the mosques when devotees had assembled for the weekly prayers. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj condemned the dastardly terror attack and put out the helpline numbers of the Indian High Commission in New Zealand tagging High Commissioner Sanjiv Kohli for Indians requiring assistance. "Any Indian requiring assistance should contact Indian High Commission in New Zealand on 021803899 or 021850033" Swaraj said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) As Manish Khanduri joined the Congress here on Saturday, party President Rahul Gandhi rubbed it in by saying the new entrant's father B C Khanduri had not been given his due by the BJP and had been removed from the chairmanship of a Parliamentary Committee for asking questions on security. Addressing a rally here in Uttarakhand, Gandhi also targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming that he was busy filming in Jim Corbett Park when the nation was mourning the death of 40 CRPF personnel in the ghastly Pulwama terror attack on February 14. Gandhi spoke about the contribution of the people of Uttarakhand towards the country's security by serving in the armed forces and paramilitary forces. In this context, he spoke about B C Khanduri, a native of Uttarakhand who retired from the Army as Major General before joining the BJP. "He (BC Khanduri) gave all his life to Army. But when he asked a question on security in Parliament and spoke the truth that the government is not helping the Army the way it should, he was removed from the Chairmanship of that (Parliamentary Standing) Committee (on Defence)," Gandhi said. B C Khanduri, a BJP member of the Lok Sabha who served as Chief Minister of Uttarakhand twice from 2007 to 2009 and from 2011 to 2012, was removed from the post of Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence in September last year. Gandhi's comments came shortly after B C Khanduri's son Manish Khanduri joined the Congress party. Attacking Modi, Gandhi accused him of not giving the Pulwama terror attack its due importance. "While I cancelled all my engagements after the Pulwama attack, Modi ji was busy filming in Jim Corbett Park," the Congress leader said. Remembering the CRPF personnel killed in the Pulwama attack, Gandhi said, "I will meet the families of the (deceased) men in the state. Congress has made it clear that it stands with the government and the nation after the attack." Mocking businessman Anil Ambani over the Rafale fighter jet deal issue, the Congress chief said, "If you give him (Anil Ambani) a paper, he will not be able to make even a paper plane. It is the HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) which makes fighter jets and the MiG (aircraft), which shot the Pakistan jet, is maintained by the HAL." He said, "The UPA government had given a contract to HAL for making the fighter jets, making its terms clear about manufacturing in India. This was the biggest defence contract of the world. (But) when Modi became the Prime Minister, Anil Ambani was part of his delegation to France, and within days, HAL was sidelined." Gandhi also claimed that the then Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar "clearly says I don't know anything about it. The Rs 526 crore aircraft was bought at Rs 1600 crore." The Congress chief added that Modi was unable to speak in Parliament when he asked him about the Rafale deal and had "no guts" to make eye contact with him because "chowkidar chor hai" (the guard is the thief). Gandhi was campaigning for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections scheduled to start from April 11. Counting of votes will take place on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister and BJP leader BC Khanduri downplayed his son Manish joining Congress and asserted that his son is free to take his own decisions. "My son is an educated guy and is a young man and would do what he desires. I fail to understand why questions are being raised. It is not a family business that he should follow me. If he was a party worker and would have shifted loyalty that was a different matter but he is an engineering graduate and has lived in the US and is doing as he wishes. It is not necessary that he will be where I am," Khanduri told ANI said. His son, Manish, joined the Congress party on Saturday in the presence of Congress president Rahul Gandhi. The former chief minister also affirmed his decision not to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and said, "I had long back announced that I will not fight elections. I feel that young people should get an opportunity. I have already been in for about 30 years now." Upon being asked as to whether he would campaign for his son or not, Khanduri said: "I will fulfil my responsibilities as a party worker and as a father. My maternal uncle was a Congress leader, I still came into BJP. This is all about time and coincidence. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) New financial sanctions have been imposed on Russia by the United States, Canada and the European Union in relation to Russia's annexation of the Crimean Peninsula. Six Russian individuals and eight companies, which coordinated and provided material support for Russia's actions, have been blocked by the United States and its "transatlantic partners", The Hill quoted the US Treasury Department as saying. "The United States and our transatlantic partners will not allow Russia's continued aggression against Ukraine to go unchecked," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement. He further said that the "joint initiative" with Canada and the EU "reinforces our shared commitment to impose targeted and meaningful sanctions in response to the Kremlin's attempts to disregard international norms and undermine Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity." The sanctioned entities are now banned from the US financial system as well as from accessing US-based assets. Germany has previously supported economic sanctions against Russia. There are three types of economic sanctions. The first restricts access to Western financial markets and services for designated Russian state-owned enterprises in the banking, energy, and defence sectors. The second places an embargo on exports to Russia of designated high-technology oil exploration and production equipment. The third is an embargo on exports to Russia of designated military and dual-use goods. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pakistan must hand over wanted criminals Dawood Ibrahim and Sayeed Salahudeen to India, sources said adding that verifiable evidence has been shared with Islamabad. "New Delhi knows there are a number of Indians in Pakistan. Islamabad should hand over these Indians who are in our wanted list and in the international terror list such as Dawood Ibrahim and Sayeed Salahudeen. Very specific details were shared (with them) and if Pakistan thinks India can't verify, it can get international verification done," sources stated. "Changing boards, putting people under detention is all cosmetic," sources further said. Meanwhile, undeterred by the recent setback at the UN Security Council (UNSC), India will continue pushing for the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) chief Masood Azhar as an international terrorist by the world body. "India is disappointed with China. India is still working with members of the sanction committee. There is no bigger statement, half of UNSC co-sponsors the proposal. (China's) hold is not a block. India is optimistic," sources said on Saturday. The USA, UK and France moved a proposal in the UNSC to list UN-proscribed group JeM's chief as a global terrorist following the JeM-perpetrated Pulwama terror attack which claimed the lives of over 40 CRPF personnel. China, for the fourth time, used a technical hold on the proposal on March 13, a move which has been widely slammed. "Terrorism is non-negotiable for India. We have the strong support of 14 members (out of 15 at the UNSC). India will show patience...We are cautiously optimistic that Azhar will be listed," sources mentioned. "China also knows that terrorism is a challenge. They know it operates from Pakistan," said the sources adding, "There are certain issues China has to resolve with Pakistan. China has adequate information that there are groups in Pakistan working against China." "India will show patience," the sources reinforced. "Pakistan is spending diplomatic capital in defending the indefensible. Pakistan's action is cosmetic," sources added. Speaking on the United States' support for India, the sources said: "The USA is supportive of India. They have assured that Pakistan will take action. India also raised concerns with the United States on the arms used of which the USA took note. The US also appreciates India for sharing its position in real time. There are no takers in the US for Pakistan's narrative that India is posing a threat. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) While Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's declaration on TV in context with the Kartarpur seemed like a generous offer, India found out that Islamabad has a limited and narrow focus on the corridor, said sources on Saturday. "Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's declaration on TV about Kartarpur gave an impression to Sikh community that it was a generous offer; what India found in discussions is that they have a narrow limited focus. We are disappointed that permit system is talked now," sources asserted. Stating that India's position on Kartarpur has been "consistent", sources said that Khan's perceived generosity is not matched. "No doubt, we are going ahead on Kartarpur. Our position is consistent, Pakistan has doubts," sources emphasised. On Friday, sources had divulged that Pakistan allowed rampant encroachment on the lands belonging to Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib in Nalowal district of its Punjab Province, prompting India to demand an early restoration of these lands to the shrine. India has protested against the impropriety of arbitrarily depriving the Gurdwara of its legal possessions, in utter disregard to the sentiments of the devotees of Shri Guru Nanak Dev in India, they said. Strong demand has been made by the Indian side for early restoration of these lands to the Gurdwara, keeping in view the strong sentiments on the issue among devotees in India. The revelation comes at a time when the two countries have initiated talks to operationalise a dedicated corridor to allow Indian pilgrims to visit the Gurudwara. The first meeting between the two sides was held at Attari in Gurdaspur district of Indian Punjab yesterday during which issues like finalisation of the draft agreement between the two countries for facilitating smooth and easy access to Corridor Kartarpur Sahib to the visiting Indian pilgrims were discussed. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Friday, March 15, 2019 The Caribbean island of Guadeloupe an overseas Department of France, has formally joined the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) a regional grouping comprising the independent and non independent countries of Antigua and Barbuda, Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, St Vincent and The Grenadines, British Virgin Islands, Anguilla and Martinique. The Ceremony officiating Guadeloupe as an Associate Member of the Organisation took place in Basse Terre, Guadeloupe on Thursday March 14th at 5 p.m. at the University des Antilles, Basse-Terre. OECS Chairman and Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Dr. The Hon Ralph Gonsalves said the accession of the French Territory was a momentous occasion in the life of the OECS and in furtherance of the deepening and broadening of the regional integration of small Eastern Caribbean islands. Our geographical propinquity, shared history of European colonialism, and the reality of our Caribbeanness the essence of our Caribbean civilization all pre-dispose us to a closer union in the interest of our peoples humanisation said Prime Minister Gonsalves. The enlargement of the OECS, with the accession of Guadeloupe to associate membership, opens up tremendous possibilities not merely to survive but to thrive more markedly across the arenas of economy, society, culture, and polity. While centuries of European colonial rivalries in the Caribbean have contributed to the fracturing of our countries in differing linguistic groups and a contrived island separateness, it is these contradictions, and separations which are the very seeds which pre-dispose our territories to a greater and more perfect union said Prime Minister Gonsalves. The Chairman in extending a warm embrace to Guadeloupe as an Associate Member noted the accession of the French Territory added tremendously to not only the land and sea space but to the economic potential of the regional grouping. In his concluding remarks Chairman Gonsalves said: Our shared contemporary reality, the memory of the pains and joys of our historic journeys, and the imagination to capture a spirit devoid of learned helplessness were now grounded in a confidence that better years lay ahead for the regional grouping, together. President of the Territorial Council of Guadeloupe Mr. Ary Chalus welcomed the distinguished Heads of Government and the OECS Director General Dr. Didacus Jules. President Chalus said on behalf of all Guadeloupeans the Accession was a historic moment in the life of the Territory. Our Caribbean region is a remarkable space, a cultural and natural wealth often praised, even envied, yet still underestimated, with an immense potential before it. Our shared history, geography, physical and human ties are self-evident in institutionalizing corporation with our neighbours for the promise of a better future for our youth and the development of our people. Cooperation, as we understand it today, between the islands of the Caribbean goes back to the post-war period, even before the independence of the English-speaking territories said President Chalus. President Chalus added that the expression of the new levels of collaboration that Guadeloupe as an Associate Member of the OECS could look forward to, included functional cooperation such as the INTERREG III program which was delivering solid development outcomes for the Eastern Caribbean. The program contributes to the integration of the Caribbean space and responds to the aspiration of our populations and our Accession will seek to deepen this cooperation and outcomes. President Chalus added with you, Territories and States of the Caribbean, we share a unity of destiny; island economies, territories vulnerable to climate change and facing the same challenges in terms of energy supply. Guadeloupe is determined to contribute to the vision, shared by all of you here, in which the promotion of the green and blue economy is put forward to make the space of the Lesser Antilles, the world reference in sustainable territories. The triple Caribbean, French and European membership must be approached pragmatically because, like Martinique and Saint-Martin, it offers Guadeloupe real opportunities for its development while nourishing the contribution it intends to make within the OECS. Regional cooperation is not an accessory; we think it inseparable from political action and its even more natural that we share more than a geographical proximity. Shared education, training, health and realisation of our natural heritage and biodiversity strengthens our Territories capacities to respond to environmental challenges, improving public services and the resilience of populations to major natural hazards. Between the literary greats of Derek Walcott and Edouard Glissant, there is a unity of vision between our people and a shared culture that is our point of convergence connecting the genius of each of our territories and without which we would be mere dust in the wind. Our people are united by nature; mutual aid has always been at the heart of our societies and it is in this sense that we must think and act. Guadeloupe shares a strong community of interest with OECS Member States and we enthusiastically embrace our membership to the Organisation. Divided we crumble, United we stand concluded President Chalus. Senior Samajwadi Party leader Mohammad Azam Khan on Friday said that Rampur unit of his party will boycott upcoming Lok Sabha polls. "The BJP wants to control all the institutions in the country and it has been successful to an extent. The Rampur unit of the party has announced that they will boycott the Parliament elections," former Uttar Pradesh cabinet minister and Rampur MLA, Khan, said while addressing SP workers here. On March 6, 2019, Rampur District Magistrate Anjaney Singh demolished Urdu Gate illegally constructed by Khan's trust. Slamming the Rampur district administration's crackdown on properties like Ali Jauhar University, Khan stated, "We all have taken a unanimous decision to boycott the Lok Sabha elections because Rampur is living in fear. The agencies like CBI are being disrespected and used by the Centre." Responding to this demolition of Urdu Gate, Khan said: "Local administration of Uttar Pradesh is taking action at the behest of state government. They are making the situation in the state similar to that of Kashmir. In such a scenario, free and fair elections can't be conducted." "The local administration is hatching a conspiracy to target schools run by Jauhar trust, it has deliberately taken an action against the Mohammad Ali Jauhar University," he added. The Urdu Gate, constructed by SP leader and former Uttar Pradesh cabinet minister Azam Khan, on Jauhar Ali University road in Rampur was demolished by the BJP government after the authorities concerned had declared the structure illegal. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A special CBI court on Saturday acquitted all the accused in a coal block case against 'Bajrang Ispat Ltd'. Bajrang Ispat was allocated the Dumri coal block of Jharkhand in 2006. Later on, the aforesaid company was amalgamated with the Company 'TP Sao and sons'. The charge sheet was filed Sections 420 (cheating) and 120B (Criminal Conspiracy) of IPC against Director Ramesh Kr. Aggarwal, authorised signatory Anil Jain and the company. Advocate Pramod Kumar Dubey and Anurag Andley argued on charge for accused Anil Jain. Judge Bharat Parashar discharged all accused persons after Court found no solid ground to proceed in the case. This is the first coal block allocation scam case since 2014 where all accused have been discharged by the Special Court. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) French Foreign Minister Le Drian on Friday held a telephonic conversation with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and informed her about France taking steps to impose financial sanctions on Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) chief Masood Azhar. "French Foreign Minister also informed that France has raised this issue with the European Union. He reiterated that France has always been and will always be on India's side in the fight against terrorism," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. Swaraj thanked her French counterpart's steadfast support and said that India looked forward to continuing cooperation on anti-terrorism front. "This action on the part of France was an expression of partnership with India and was in consonance with the global intent by responsible nations committed to fight against terror, including cross-border terrorism anywhere in the world," an external affairs ministry statement said. Earlier, India welcomed France's decision of putting sanctions on Azhar by freezing his assets. MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar took to Twitter saying, "We welcome the decision taken by France to sanction Masood Azhar, Chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based & UN proscribed terrorist organisation; and responsible for the Pulwama terrorist attack." France's decision came two days after China on March 14 blocked Azhar's listing as a global terrorist at the UN Security Council. This was the fourth time in the last ten years, when China, on March 13, put a technical hold on a proposal by the US, the UK and France, among others, to enlist Pakistan-based Azhar as a global terrorist at the UNSC, despite his outfit carrying out the ghastly Pulwama terror attack on February 14, which killed over 40 CRPF personnel. "France has decided to sanction Masood Azhar at the national level by freezing his assets in application of the Monetary and Financial Code. A joint decree of the Ministries of the Interior, and Economy and Finance was published today in the Official Gazette," a release issued by France noted. "A deadly attack took place in Pulwama on 14th February 2019, claiming over 40 victims from the Indian police forces. The Jaish-e-Mohammed, which the United Nations has deemed to be a terrorist organization since 2001, has claimed responsibility for this attack...France has always been and always will be by India's side in the fight against terrorism," the statement outlined. "We will raise this issue with our European partners with a view to including Masood Azhar on the European Union list of persons, groups and entities involved in terrorist acts, based on this decree," it added. China has since defended its technical hold to the UN resolution, saying it needed "more time" as it is "conducting a comprehensive and in-depth review" on the listing request put forth by the countries - a stance that has been widely criticised. According to sources, more than 10 countries supported as co-sponsors India's bid to designate Azhar as a global terrorist in the United Nations Security Council 1267 list. Furthermore, France will also be raising the issue with its European partners in a bid to include Azhar on the European Union list of persons, groups and entities involved in terrorist acts. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will be on an official state visit to the Maldives from March 17 to 18. The External Affairs Minister will be visiting the South Asian island nation on the invitation of Maldivian counterpart Abdulla Shahid. She will be accompanied by Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and other senior officials. According to a MEA press release, Swaraj will hold a bilateral meeting with Shahid during the visit. She is also scheduled to attend delegation-level meetings with Maldivian Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi, Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer, Planning and Infrastructure Minister Mohamed Aslam, Health Minister Abdulla Ameen, Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Aishath Nahula, Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Yumna Maumoon, Environment Minister Dr. Hussain Rasheed Hassan and Economic Development Minister Fayyaz Ismail. "The Ministers will review the entire gamut of bilateral relations and discuss the future programme of action," read the press release. Swaraj will also call on Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on March 18 and Parliament Speaker Qasim Ibrahim on March 17. Minister of Home Affairs Sheikh Imran Abdulla is scheduled to call on the External Affairs Minister on March 18. The visit aims at further strengthening of the close and friendly relations between India and Maldives. "India attaches the highest importance to its relationship with the Maldives which is marked by trust, transparency, mutual understanding and sensitivity. This visit will further strengthen the close and friendly relations between India and Maldives," read the press release. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) As tensions rose between Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and YSR Congress in the wake of the Lok Sabha elections, supporters of the two political quarters clashed in Khaggal village of Kurnool district on Sunday. During the clash, P Thikka Reddy, TDP's candidate from Mantralayam Assembly seat sustained injuries. Not only that, a cop who tried to prevent the clash was also injured in the incident. To control the mob, the police present at the spot fired gunshots in the air, following which Reddy's gunman also fired into the air. Reddy sustained injuries on his leg and was immediately taken to Kurnool government hospital. Lok Sabha and assembly elections will be held simultaneously in Andhra Pradesh on April 11. The results will be announced on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) This is not New Zealand, the country's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern reaffirmed on Saturday during a visit to a refugee centre here to show her solidarity with the Muslim community in the wake of the ghastly terror attacks at two mosques which claimed the lives of 49 people. "You were quick to mention this is not the New Zealand that you know. I want to reaffirm that today. This is not New Zealand," she said. "A complex and comprehensive investigation is underway by police," The New Zealand Herald quoted Ardern as saying. New Zealand's Attorney General, David Parker, also outlined that semi-automatic weapons will be banned in the Oceania country following the terror attack which has brought focus to the country's gun laws. "How can it be right for this atrocity to be filmed by the murderer using a go-pro and live-streamed across the by social media companies?" Parker said while echoing the Prime Minister's assurance that gun laws would change. Meanwhile, 39 people are still being treated for wounds, out of which 11 people still remain critically injured at Christchurch Hospital and one child has been transferred to Auckland's Starship Hospital. "Yesterday's terrorist attack took away the lives of 49 innocent people. It's hard to fathom the enormity of this act of terrorism...What happened yesterday is abhorrent," Canterbury DHB chief executive David Meates said. Ardern outlined that five guns were used by the perpetrator - who held a gun license - out of which two were semi-automatic weapons and two were shotguns. Children and adults alike were gunned down indiscriminately by what authorities believe to be one terrorist - Brenton Tarrant - who travelled between two packed mosques on Friday to carry out the shootings under 36 minutes. Sympathies and condemnation are pouring in globally against the terror attack, which has shaken communities across the The primary suspect, Tarrant, appeared before the court on Saturday on murder charges connected with Friday's terror attacks in Christchurch. He was remanded in custody without plea until April 5. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bharathi Kannama Trust has written to the District Collector requesting the Election commission (EC) to change the Lok Sabha poll dates in the state in the wake of Koovagam Koothandavar, a 3-day long festival of transgenders. Speaking to ANI, Bharathi Kannama, a transgender activist, said the transgender community would not be able to vote in the forthcoming parliamentary election due to the Koovagam Koothandavar festival. The representatives of the transgender community in Madurai pleaded to the District Collector S Natarajan in a letter, demanding the rescheduling of the Lok Sabha elections, which will be held on April 18 in a single phase. "We cannot accept the dates for two reasons. First, a huge number of people throng Madurai to witness the Chithirai festival. So, pilgrims attending it will not be able to cast votes. Secondly, transgenders from across the country will attend a 3-day long transgender festival in Viluppuram district from April 15-17. This will surely affect voter turnout. Nearly 6.5 lakh transgenders will take part in this festival. All of their representation will be neglected. I appeal to the Election Commission to reconsider the other date," said Bharathi. On March 12, an all-party delegation demanded the postponement of Lok Sabha election in Tamil Nadu, in view of its clash with Chithirai festival from April 8 to 22 in the state. On March 14, Tamil Nadu Bishops' Council wrote a letter to the state Election Commission urging them to changes the polling date which will coincide with Maundy Thursday, stating that it would not be conducive for the people of the Christian community. Earlier, some leaders had also raised objections over the clash of the ensuing Lok Sabha elections with the holy month of Ramzan. The Election Commission had announced the schedule for Lok Sabha elections. The dates for the seven phases are April 11, April 18, April 23, April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19. Counting of votes will be done on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US President Donald Trump on Friday issued his first veto rejecting as "dangerous" and "reckless" congressional resolution of his emergency declaration and asserted that Americans would be "put at risk" at the southern border with Mexico if the measure became a law. Trump vetoed a resolution of disapproval of his emergency declaration, which was declared to get his wall funded and built along the US-Mexico border. At the Oval Office, Trump was quoted by The Hill saying: "Today I am vetoing this resolution. Congress has the freedom to pass this resolution, and I have the duty to veto it. There haven't been too many that are bigger emergency than what we have at our border." The resolution will now return to the House of Representatives, which is expected to vote on overriding Trump's veto on March 26. However, lawmakers lack the two-thirds support of the chamber required to pass the measure. It was the first time that the US President used his veto power to block a legislation which came after 12 Senate Republicans sided with the Democrats to reject Trump's use of his emergency power to bypass the Congress and fund the border wall's construction, The Hill reported. On Thursday, the Republican-controlled Senate voted to disapprove the emergency declaration by 59 votes to 41, in what was a sharp rebuke to Trump. The resolution was already passed in the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives by 245 votes to 182 last month, with 13 Republicans supporting the Democrats. Minutes after the vote, Trump tweeted in capitals, "VETO!", an indication that he would reject the resolution. The US President had labelled the resolution as a "referendum" on his immigration policies and had asked the Republicans to back his move, saying that the issue will play a crucial aspect in the 2020 presidential election. On February 15, a defiant Trump declared a national emergency to bypass Congress and fulfill his long-pending demand of building the wall along the border with Mexico. Defending his move, the US President asserted that he had "no choice" but to use his emergency powers to stop illegal immigrants spreading crime and drugs. Acknowledging that his move could be challenged legally, Trump remarked that his decision would eventually prevail. He said that he could wait for a "long time" to build his long-called barrier, but added that he wanted to move "faster" in this regard. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two persons, including a BJP worker, were arrested in West Bengal on Saturday for allegedly posting obscene messages on social media about Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha candidate Nusrat Jahan, police said. Jahan, a popular Bengali actress, will contest the upcoming polls from Basirhat constituency. Subhendu Chakraborty, a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) IT cell in Basirhat area, has been arrested from North 24 Parganas district's Baduria area after police received a complaint that he shared obscene pictures and text messages about Jahan on social media. "We received specific complaint against him for posting and forwarding obscene messages about a female public figure here. We have arrested him and seized his phone. He has been produced before the court," a police officer said. Meanwhile, another youth was arrested on similar charges from the district's Gaighata area. --IANS mgr/mag/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least 24 people have been killed as Cyclone Idai wreaked havoc in southeastern Zimbabwe, officials said on Saturday. The Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services tweeted on Saturday that most of the deaths were in Chimanimani district. Two children were among the dead and a school was closed following a fatal landslide on Friday evening. Many rivers burst their banks and bridges had been swept away in the floods. The military was assisting in rescue efforts but it was slowed down by bad roads, Xinhua news agency reported. A UN spokesman had said earlier that Cyclone Idai claimed at least 122 lives and affected more than 1 million people in Malawi and Mozambique. --IANS soni/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS (March 12, 2019) Airlift capacity to the U.S. Virgin Islands will get a boost this summer, says the Department of Tourism. Tourism Commissioner Designee Joseph Boschulte reports that Delta Air Lines will add a second daily flight between Atlanta and St. Thomas this summer, while the existing New York to St. Thomas nonstop flight will continue through the end of August. Commissioner Designee Boschulte also noted that Delta will make its seasonal adjustment to the Atlanta-St. Croix route with a daily Saturday service from April 6 to August 24, 2019 before ramping up its schedule for the 2019-2020 winter season. We are steadily restoring confidence in our destination, he said, promising that the department will leave no stone unturned to maintain and increase airlift to both islands, especially as more accommodations come back on line. The tourism leader also divulged that American Airlines was seriously considering restoring its third daily Miami-St. Thomas flight to the market, as well as expressing interest in a new Dallas flight to the destination in the future. He reported that United Airlines will serve the Houston-St. Thomas market beginning in May with weekly Saturday service, and then daily flights from June 6 to August 19, 2019. Nonstop flights between Washington, DC and St. Thomas are also scheduled over a similar period, while there will be intermittent Saturday flights between Newark and St. Thomas over the summer. On the intra-regional front, Commissioner Designee Boschulte said talks with LIAT have begun about increasing frequency or capacity on the Antigua-St. Thomas route, which airline officials reported was performing well. The service currently operates three days a week. Our work to encourage our airline partners to serve both St. Croix and St. Thomas is part of our overall marketing continuum, said Commissioner Designee Boschulte. He explained that just as we work with the media and travel wholesalers and retailers to attract visitors to our shores, we are also developing strong relationships with our airline and cruise line partners, who have a very strong appetite for product knowledge and destination developments as they gauge their current routes and itineraries and assess potential new destinations. The Central Drugs Standards Control Organisation (CDSCO) has decided to issue show cause notices to the 29 medical device units, which were found to be violating the norms of selling and manufacturing orthopaedic implants. "We will go as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and Rules 2018. We are in the process of issuing show cause notices to these 29 firms. We are working upon details of the firms," Dr. S. Eswara Reddy, Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI), CDSCO, told IANS. The CDSCO conducted raids at 45 medical plants in four states -- Delhi, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh -- on March 11, and found 29 medical device firms and five traders manufacturing or selling orthopaedic implants without licence or approval. In Delhi, raids were conducted on 25 firms. Searches were carried out in eight facilities in Maharashtra. Six firms each in Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh were also raided. According to the CDSCO, the units were found to be manufacturing devices in 'dirty and filthy conditions' with underrated raw materials and lack of quality management and testing facilities. --IANS som/rs/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Even before the onset of summer, nearly 4,000 villages are staring at an acute drought in 36 out of 52 districts in Madhya Pradesh. A lean monsoon last year has left in its trail a grave crisis for the third successive year while the administration is cramped by the Model Code of Conduct for the Lok Sabha elections. A report by the Panchayat and Rural Development Department says 40 rivers that provide water to these villages have gone dry and the micro-watershed management is in complete disarray. Most parts of the state have experienced 20 to 50 per cent deficient rainfall for the past two years. More than 21,293,000 hectares of the rivers' catchment area is parched on the nearly 2,19,0000 km length of these rivers. The department says efforts are continuing to recharge the micro watersheds through the course of these rivers. The department has drawn up a plan to raise the groundwater level by recharging the rivers through community participation. The objective is to raise rural jobs and provide drinking water through works under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MNREGS). In view of the poll code, the state government may seek the Election Commission's approval for launching initiative to mitigate the crisis. Villages in Bundelkhand already began experiencing water scarcity early in November. The region is experiencing its fourth successive drought in five years while the rest of the state had an average monsoon in 2017. Some villagers in Tikamgarh district in the Bundelkhand region have had to cover more than five kilometres every day to fetch water for more than three years now. Even the Swachchh Bharat Abhiyan has taken a hit as women have to walk long distances to use a toilet. The community toilets have no water in most villages. This year the worst affected of the 36 districts is Katni, with 305 villages experiencing a water crisis. Chief Minister Kamal Nath's stronghold Chhindwara is another district where water management has failed and 145 villages bear the brunt of the crisis. Another 2,000 villages are affected in Rewa, Chhatarpur, Jhabua, Rajgarh, Sagar, Seoni, Dewas, Mandla, Neemuch, Damoh and Shivpuri districts. The government has set up a committee headed by the Commissioner Command Area Development to formulate a law on water bodies' rights protection on the lines of the forest rights protection law. The committee will include four other members. State capital Bhopal that boasts of large lakes is facing a grim situation with the administration formally declaring it a low water-availability zone. A 33-year-old water Conservation Act has been invoked to ban drilling of borewells except for drinking water. This year the Upper Lake, the main source of drinking water supply for Bhopal, may hit its dead storage level two months before the monsoon. Though there is hope for an average monsoon this year, the period preceding the general elections could be of intense distress. (Chandrakant Naidu can be contacted at chandrakant.naidu@gmail.com) --IANS naidu/vm/am/in (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Hundreds of people took to the streets here on Saturday to protest against the Karnataka government's proposed elevated corridor project, citing environmental concerns. "The elevated corridor project poses a huge threat to hundreds of trees in the city. Instead of making these corridors for more private vehicles, the state government should provide a reliable public transport," one of the protesters said. At least 50 citizen groups and regional welfare associations, including Citizens for Bengaluru, Environment Support Group and Citizens for Sustainability, staged protests urging the government to cancel the project. As the proposed project, which would entail the felling of thousands of trees may not ease the traffic woes in this tech hub, people demanded more investment in the public transport system. "One of the biggest hurdles in Bengaluru's progress is traffic congestion. The elevated corridor project is the solution to this. Some citizen groups are protesting against the project. My request to all is to come to me and raise their concerns. I will listen with an open mind to your feedback," Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy tweeted in response to the protests. Kumaraswamy had allotted Rs 1,000 crore for the fiscal 2018-19 as part of the Budget to construct six interconnected elevated corridors over the next four years in order to cater to the growing traffic. The elevated corridor project is estimated to cost the state exchequer nearly Rs 16,000 crore, and an additional amount for land acquisition. --IANS bha/mag/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In a first major setback to the year-old BJP-led coalition government in Tripura, alliance partner IPFT on Saturday announced their own nominees for the state's two Lok Sabha seats. The Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT) nominated party President and Revenue Minister Narendra Chandra Debbarma from the Tripura East seat and youth leader Sukhla Charan Noatia from the Tripura West. The Bharatiya Janata Party is likely to announce their candidates in New Delhi on Saturday night or Sunday morning. Reacting to its ally's move, BJP spokesman Nabendu Bhattacharjee said: "We would appeal to the IPFT to reconsider their decision and withdraw the candidates otherwise political rivals would get the electoral advantage." Immediately after the day-long meeting of the IPFT's Central Executive Committee, its highest policy making body, IPFT General Secretary and Forest Minister Mever Kumar Jamatia announced the names of the party nominees. In a media briefing, Debbarma and Jamatia said that they had long been requesting the BJP to allow the IPFT to contest from Tripura East since it's reserved for tribals. "As the BJP did not accept our proposal, we have no other alternative to put up candidates in both the Lok Sabha seats. However, we would not withdraw support from the coalition government and the IPFT wants the NDA to form government again at the centre after the current Lok Sabha polls," Debbarma said. BJP General Secretary Ram Madhav, Deputy Chief Minister Jishnu Dev Varma and Education and Law Minister Ratan Lal Nath held separate meetings with the IPFT leaders here on Wednesday and Thursday, but could not reach an agreement as both sides remained firm at fielding their candidates in the two Lok Sabha seats. Tripura Chief Minister and state BJP chief Biplab Kumar Deb is now holding meetings with the central party leaders in Delhi to finalise the candidates. In last year's assembly polls, the BJP-IPFT alliance defeated the Left overwhelmingly, winning 44 seats in the 60-member assembly. The IPFT, which won eight of the seats, has two ministers in the nine-member ministry. West Tripura goes to the polls on April 11 in the first phase of the Lok Sabha polls and East Tripura on April 18 in the second phase. Votes will be counted on May 23. --IANS sc/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In a major setback to the BJP ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the party's sitting MP Shyama Charan Gupta from Prayagraj resigned and joined the Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party (SP) on Saturday. Gupta will contest the general elections as an SP candidate from the Banda parliamentary constituency. According to SP leaders, Gupta visited the party office in Lucknow later in the day and met Yadav, after which he was allotted the ticket. It is said that Gupta was unhappy with the Bharatiya Janata Party over reports that he may be denied a ticket from the Prayagraj constituency, which he won in 2014. Gupta had earlier contested the 2009 general elections as an SP candidate from Phulpur. The SP, Bahujan Samaj Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal are contesting the coming elections in an alliance. The SP won five seats in the 2014 elections, while the BSP scored a nil. The BJP-led NDA alliance had won 73 out of 80 seats in the state while the Congress had won two seats in the state. The seven phased Lok Sabha elections is scheduled from April 11 to May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. --IANS aks/ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Elon Musk's plan to build underground express-route tunnels in Las Vegas has got its first approval as the board of directors of Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) has voted in favour of Musk's The Boring Company for a new people-mover project. The 14-member board approved a recommendation to select The Boring Company to design, construct and operate a people-mover for the Las Vegas Convention Centre via a loop of underground express-route tunnels, which would carry passengers in autonomous electric vehicles at high speeds, according to a release of LVCVA, the Xinhua news agency reported on Friday. The innovative project has the potential to connect Las Vegas downtown, the city's Convention Centre, the Las Vegas Boulevard Resort Corridor, the McCarran International Airport and beyond, said the release. "Las Vegas is a high-energy, high-technology destination equipped to welcome the world, and we are excited to deliver a system that will help visitors efficiently navigate the city's many offerings," said Steve Davis, President, The Boring Company. The Boring Company and the LVCVA will determine specific design, construction and operational plans and negotiate a contract for the final approval by the LVCVA board in a subsequent meeting scheduled for June 2019. The loop will be designed with a potential capacity of up to 11,000 passengers per hour. The estimated system cost is between $35 million and $55 million depending on the route, the number of stations and the size of the stations, according to the release. --IANS ksc/arm/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Tesla CEO Elon Musk has once again vouched to make India his next big market but the question lingers: Will the electric car ever run on desi roads? Breaking his silence over India after 10 months, Musk tweeted late Friday that he would love to be in India in 2019 or next year. "Would love to be there this year. If not, definitely next! India," Musk tweeted to a user. His tweet came after Musk earlier blamed the Indian government's restrictive policies for giving up on his India dreams. Musk also blamed the FDI norms for the delay in the electric car maker's entry into the Indian market. Earlier this year, Tesla's Indian-origin Chief Financial Officer Deepak Ahuja announced his retirement from the firm, thus bringing Musk's India dream to a halt again. Musk wanted to drive Tesla in India in 2017 and Ahuja, who worked out of Tesla's San Carlos headquarters, quit the company in 2015 only to rejoin in 2017. In May last year, Tesla CEO Elon Musk said he would still love to roll out Tesla electric cars in India but the tough government regulations have forced him to apply the brakes on his plans. "Would love to be in India. Some challenging government regulations, unfortunately," Musk tweeted in response to a Twitter user who wrote "No Tesla in India" on his Twitter handle. "Deepak Ahuja, our CFO, is from India. Tesla will be there as soon as he believes we should," added Musk, also the SpaceX founder. Tesla was expected to enter India with the Model 3 that sells for nearly $35,000. In 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Tesla headquarters at Palo Alto, California and met Musk who gave Modi a tour of the company's electric car plant. --IANS ksc/na/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A top Kerala Police officer has assured a group of nuns that the charge sheet against Bishop Franco Mulakkal, accused of repeatedly raping a nun over several years, will be ready in three to four days, one of the nuns said. Sister Anupama along with three other nuns, who have been the biggest moral support to the victim and to the key witness, on Saturday told the media that the Kottayam Superintendent of Police has assured them that the charge sheet would be submitted next week. "We gave a memorandum to the police stating the trials and tribulations faced by the witnesses in the case. We brought up the issue that the charge sheet has not yet been filed. "He assured that it would be done in three to four days time," said Sister Anupama. "We also told the officer that they should not forced to re-launch their protest on the streets. "Franco is powerful, both politically and monetarily and hence the witnesses are under tremendous duress," added Anupama. In February, the four nuns, who were presently attached to the Kuruvilangad Convent, were transferred to four different places in the country. However, the church had to reverse the transfer orders after they organised a one day sit in protest. All the four nuns were witnesses in the case against the former Bishop of the Jalandhar diocese, Mulakkal, accused of sexually assaulting a nun repeatedly between 2014 and 2016. Mulakkal was arrested on September 21, 2018 on rape charges after the four nuns joined a public protest in Kochi that forced the police to take strong action against the bishop. Mulakkal had secured bail on October 16, 2018 and is now back in Punjab, but is no longer the diocesan head. --IANS sg/in (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The New Zealand Prime Minister's Office said on Saturday that it received a copy of a "manifesto" from the alleged gunman less than 10 minutes before the attacks began at the two Christchurch mosques on Friday, along with about 70 other recipients. Other politicians on the mailing list included National leader Simon Bridges and Parliament Speaker Trevor Mallard, The New Zealand Herald reported. Brenton Harrison Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian, is the primary suspect in Friday's that killed 49 people. Most of the other recipients in the email were media, both domestic and international, a spokesman for Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said. He added that the gunman didn't say in the email that "this is what I am about to do" so "there was no opportunity to stop it". "It does not set out what he was about to do. It was written as if it had occurred, to explain what obviously was about to play out", an official said. The email had gone to Ardern's generic address. The spokesman said that it was an email account managed by Ardern's office and not her personal one. According to the report, the person in the Prime Minister's Office who opened the email followed standard procedure and referred it to Parliamentary security. Security then referred it to the police. The report said that Ardern will not release the contents of the manifesto, the time it was received or even what was in the subject line. --IANS soni/ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) More than 24 hour after the terror attack at two mosques in New Zealand's Christchurch city, a man from Hyderabad remains missing while another who was shot at is recovering. Mohammed Sayeeduddin was still waiting for information about his son Farhaj Ahsan, 31, who remained missing. "We are still waiting for information. He is still listed as missing," an anxious Sayeeduddin told IANS on Saturday. Farhaj's wife and her uncle, who rushed from Australia, were at a hospital in Christchurch, waiting for the authorities to provide some information. Farhaj, a software engineer, was at Al Noor mosque for Friday prayers when the terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on worshippers. He used to regularly offer Friday prayers at Al Noor as he lives in a nearby neighbourhood with his wife and two children. Like every day, Sayeeduddin rang up his son, unaware of what was going on at the mosque. "We speak to him over phone every day around afternoon and today being Friday I rang him around 8 a.m. but he did not respond," the father had told IANS hours after the mass killing. He then called his daughter-in-law, who informed that there has been an attack at the mosque and she has failed to reach Farhaj over his mobile phone. She later went to hospitals with a picture of her husband and after a long wait, the authorities told her that he is among 19 people missing. Farhaj, who did his MS from Auckland University, worked for various companies. Ahmed Iqbal Jehangir, another man from Hyderabad who was also at the same mosque, was injured. He received a bullet on his chest. "Alhamdulillah (grateful to Allah). He is out of danger and recovering," his brother Mohammed Khursheed Jehangir told IANS in Hyderabad on Saturday. According to information received by Khursheed, a surgery was performed on Ahmed at a hospital in Christchurch and it was successful. Ahmed, settled in New Zealand for 15 years, stay in the same neighbourhood where the tragedy struck and runs a Hyderabadi food restaurant near Al Noor mosque. His wife and children were safe. Khursheed plans to leave for New Zealand to see his brother. Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi has tweeted to Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj, urging her to provide immediate assistance to the two families to facilitate their travel to New Zealand. The Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (MIM) chief later tweeted again to thank Sushma Swaraj for personally updating him about the efforts of the Foreign Ministry in assisting Ahmed and Ahsan's families. --IANS ms/in (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) While supporting the air strikes inside Pakistan by the Indian Air Force, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Saturday said that "any government of the day, including the Congress, would have retaliated after the Pulwama (terror) attack". Asked if the recent air strikes by the IAF would benefit the Bharatiya Janata Party in the coming elections, Amarinder said: "The government just did its job, which Congress governments had done in the past too. The (Narendra) Modi government has simply coined a new phrase - surgical strikes - for such action." "Jawans and officers are dying every day," said the Chief Minister, while lashing out at the BJP for politicization of the armed forces and their use for promoting political interests. "The Congress never politicized the 1965 or the 1971 wars. We have always put the nation above political interests," Amarinder told media here. --IANS js/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The first BRICS Sherpa meeting, under the presidency of Brazil, has identified countering terrorism as one of its priority areas, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Saturday. The BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) Sherpa meeting was held in Brazil's Curitiba city between March 14 and March 15. T.S. Tirumurti, Secretary (Economic Relations) in the MEA, led the Indian delegation at the meeting. "It is worth mentioning that Brazil has identified countering terrorism as one of its priority areas for BRICS nations under its presidency. Brazil's priorities for its presidency includes, inter-alia science, technology and innovation, digital economy, New Development Bank and BRICS Business Council as well as countering transnational crime and terrorism," said the Ministry. The Ministry said India conveyed its support for the priority set out by Brazil, particularly to take forward BRICS cooperation on countering terrorism in a meaningful and concrete manner with the member countries of the group, which represents billions of people. "India also underlined the need to take forward inter-alia people-to-people cooperation, cooperation in science and technology and innovation, and also in health and traditional medicine," said the Ministry. --IANS rak/arm/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Karnataka Chief Minister and JD-S leader H.D. Kumaraswamy on Saturday said party General Secretary Danish Ali joined the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) with the party's consent. Ali joined the BSP in consent with me and our national President H.D. Deve Gowda in a purely political arrangement between the two parties. It is a thoughtful political decision taken by the Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) and the BSP to win more seats in the Lok Sabha elections, Kumaraswamy tweeted. Earlier in the day, Ali joined the BSP in the presence of party's national General Secretary Satish Mishra in Lucknow. "He (Ali) was promised a Lok Sabha seat by the BSP," a JD-S leader told IANS, though the details about the seat were not shared. As Convenor of the southern state's coalition coordination committee, Ali recently held discussions with Congress President Rahul Gandhi and finalised the seat-sharing pact between the ruling allies. --IANS bha/mag/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The BJP invariably raises the Ram temple issue before a general election but not so this time around as it's "not an issue" as it would await the Supreme Court's verdict. The 2019 Lok Sabha elections will be fought on the plank of development, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma said. "Ram temple is not an election issue for us because it is the issue of our faith which is bigger than any issue," Sharma told IANS in an interview. Sharma said the BJP, in its 2014 election manifesto had made it clear that it will follow the wishes of the different parties in the Ayodhya dispute or follow the Supreme Court's guidelines. He pointed out that many times, people had sat together to mediate on the dispute but "unfortunately it has failed in the past. "And that is the reason why we are looking at the Supreme Court to give its verdict on the Ram temple issue," the former Lucknow Mayor, who is also a professor, said. Commenting on the SP-BSP-RLD (Rashtriya Lok Dal) alliance in the state, Sharma said: "These parties look different from the outside but they are the same from inside. Their only motive is to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi from returning to power. "They (SP-BSP and the Congress) have not announced their alliance publicly but are performing as alliance partners from the inside," he maintained. Sharma also accused Congress of acting as a "dummy" for the SP-BSP to cut into the BJP's vote share. The BJP and its ally Apna Dal had won 73 of the state's 80 seats in 2014. The Congress had won two and the SP five. Taking a jibe at recently-appointed Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's meeting with Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad, Sharma said, "The Congress, by supporting caste parties like Bhim Army and others is trying to again breathe air into such parties which were curbed by Modi and (Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister) Yogi Adityanath." "It is the third election for Priyankaji. Earlier, she had campaigned in two Lok Sabha elections. If you look at her election campaign in 2014 you will find that she covered 46 seats and of these the Congress lost in 44 seats. At many places many of their candidates lost their deposit," he noted. Sharma said that due to the BJP's 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas' mantra in 2014, and its policy to move away from caste or community politics, there had been no communal riot in the state in the last three years. "The main issue for the BJP is development," he said. Asked if there was a Modi wave in the country, Sharma said: "There is an atmosphere for Modiji across the country." Hitting out at opposition parties for questioning the Indian Air Force strikes across the border in Pakistan, he said: "Few opposition parties are using such language which are making headlines in Pakistan," he said, adding: "And by doing so, they question the strength and valour of our country and the security forces," he said. Urging the opposition parties to refrain from such comments, the BJP leader said: "I want to advise them that elections are meant to strengthen the democratic system and not to demean the pride and respect of the country. And the opposition should refrain from such utterances." The Deputy Chief Minister noted that elections for the Congress' first family had now become more of a picnic. On the Nehru-Gandhi family, the deputy chief minister said: "The family has a history of participating in elections. Now it seems that for them elections have been reduced to a picnic. They can be seen campaigning during elections, but after the elections are over they go on vacation to foreign countries," he said. On Congress President Rahul Gandhi's prospects for contesting from south India, Sharma said: "It is his party's matter. He can contest from anywhere, from the east or northeast or west India. It's his party's decision." "He is fearing (something) and I don't have any cure for his fear," he said. (Anand SIngh can be contacted at anand.s@ians.in ) --IANS aks/vm/am (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Increased use of digital media may be partly responsible for the growth in the percentage of young adults experiencing certain types of mental health disorders in the US over the past decade, suggests new research. "More US adolescents and young adults in the late 2010s, versus the mid-2000s, experienced serious psychological distress, major depression or suicidal thoughts, and more attempted suicide," said lead study author Jean Twenge, Professor of Psychology at San Diego State University in the US. "These trends are weak or non-existent among adults 26 years and over, suggesting a generational shift in mood disorders instead of an overall increase across all ages," Twenge added. For the study, the researchers analysed data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, a nationally representative survey that has tracked drug and alcohol use, mental health and other health-related issues in individuals aged 12 and over in the US since 1971. They looked at survey responses from more than 200,000 adolescents aged 12 to 17 from 2005 to 2017, and almost 400,000 adults aged 18 and over from 2008 to 2017. The rate of individuals reporting symptoms consistent with major depression in the last 12 months increased 52 per cent in adolescents from 2005 to 2017 - from 8.7 per cent to 13.2 per cent -- and 63 per cent in young adults aged 18 to 25 from 2009 to 2017 - from 8.1 per cent to 13.2 per cent, showed the findings published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology. "Cultural trends in the last 10 years may have had a larger effect on mood disorders and suicide-related outcomes among younger generations compared with older generations," said Twenge. She believes this trend may be partially due to increased use of electronic communication and digital media, which may have changed modes of social interaction enough to affect mood disorders. Moreover, research shows that young people are not sleeping as much as they did in previous generations, she noted. --IANS gb/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Doctors examining ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar aren't saying he will recover, Deputy Speaker Michael Lobo said on Saturday. He also said that as long as Parrikar, who is suffering from advanced pancreatic cancer is alive, there will be no leadership change in the BJP-led coalition government. "Parrikar is very ill since last night. Doctors who are examining him aren't saying that he will recover..." Lobo said, after attending a meeting of BJP MLAs at the party's state headquarters here. "...we are praying to God that he should recover. But there are no chances of recovery," he added. However, Union Minister Shripad Naik and state Minister Vijay Sardesai said that while Parrikar's condition had worsened on Saturday, he was now stable. Earlier on Sunday, the Chief Minister's Office was forced to issue a statement claiming that the health of Parrikar, who is being treated at his private residence, was "stable", after media reports said that his health conditions had worsened. Sources, requesting anonymity told IANS that Parrikar's blood pressure had dropped considerably on Saturday morning. Parrikar was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer in February 2018 and has been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai, Delhi and New York since then. --IANS maya/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) El Nino may make a comeback this year to upset the expectations of a good monsoon, according to the latest report by the US-based National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). El Nino is a climate cycle formed in the Pacific Ocean with an impact on weather patterns across the globe. The cycle begins when warm water in the western tropical Pacific Ocean shifts eastward along the equator towards the coast of South America. NOAA forecasters have said that there is a 60 per cent chance of El Nino conditions continuing through June to August in India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD), however, maintained that neutral El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions are prevailing at present, indicating weak El Nino formation. "El Nino was supposed to start at the end of last year but it was wrongly predicted. Currently there is a very weak prevalence of El Nino. Some models suggest that it would retain for the next two to three months, and only thereafter it will weaken. Even at this stage it is weak," D.S Pai, Scientist at IMD, Pune, told IANS. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Earth Sciences had said that there was no indication of El Nino developing and it wont have any impact on the upcoming monsoon. "It is too early to talk about its impact on monsoon. May be around mid-April and May-end we will have a clear picture of El Nino's prevalence," Pai added. El Nino forecasts, issued in December 2018 by the IMD for the January-February-March period this year, maintained that the Sea Surface Temperatures (SSTs), which is the main indicator of the development of the phenomenon, would remain slightly warm over the central Pacific region. Except for Kerala, all other sub-divisions in the southern peninsular regions -- Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Rayalaseema and South Interior Karnataka -- received poor rainfall from October to December last year. The northeast monsoon ended up 44 per cent deficient, one of the driest in recent years. --IANS som/prs (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A fake news that the Rajasthan government has allowed namaz at the Kumbhalgarh Fort of Udaipur has gone viral on the social media and the polics are showing their inability to take any action. The unchecked circulation of the message on Twitter and Facebook is helping it garner thousands of retweets and likes and the kind of reactions it is generating in the social media may pose a threat to peace and harmony in the state. The police, however, expressed its inability to cross check the fact as the Supreme Court had in October 2015 scrapped the Section 66A of the Information Technology Act 2000, citing the liberty of thoughts and expression as cardinal. Interestingly, the tweet originated from one Dr. Gaurav Pradhan, being followed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leader Digvijaya Singh. The message reads: What Akbar couldn't do, Gehlot government has done. It has permitted Namaaz inside the holy fort of Maharana Pratap, which once used to echo with Shiva slogans. "Akbar na kar saka, woh Ashok Gehlot ne kar dikhaya... Rajasthan Sarkar ne Maharana Pratap ke Kumbhalgarh Kile mein Iztema ki izaazat pradan ki, Jis kile mein hamesha eklingnath, har har mahadev ka jaighosh hota raha, waha pehli baar allah akbar gunjega." Congress leader Ashok Gehlot was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Rajasthan on December 17, 2018. The Kumbhalgarh Fort is the birthplace of Mewar king Maharana Pratap who fought the famous Haldighati battle with Mughal Emperor Akbar in Rajasthan. It is a revered place for Rajputs. Speaking to IANS, Bhuvan Bhushan, Superintendent of Police, Rajsamand, confirmed that a group of Muslims had planned to organise a similar kind of event at the fort on March 10. They had also invited an Imam from Uttar Pradesh. "The district collector and I personally called them for discussion and asked them to refrain from any such event, which can be a threat to social harmony," he said. He also expressed his inability to check the same (social media message) saying Section 66A of the Information Technology Act 2000 has been struck down by the apex court. People are just not afraid of any clause, he added. Meanwhile, Narpat Singh, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Kumbhalgarh, told IANS it seems the message has been made viral to polarise the masses. "There is no ground reality in it. As of now, no complaint has been submitted in this context. If someone reports the matter, we shall definitely take action," he said. The fort comes under the Archaeological Survey of India, hence, only ASI officials can permit any such event in the premises and not the state government, he added. Meanwhile, the ASI officials said no such event had been organised in the premises of the fort. However, the groups active on Facebook with thousands of followers continue to circulate this message on social media, and the people have started discussing it in the state. --IANS arc/rs/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Manish Khanduri, the son of former Uttarakhand Chief Minister B.C. Khanduri, on Saturday joined the Congress in the presence of party President Rahul Gandhi at an election rally here. Welcoming the younger Khanduri, Gandhi claimed that his father, also a retired Army General, was shunted out as the chairman of the defence committee just because he had raised a valid question on national security. "B.C. Khanduri is a true son of the soil. I want to tell you that he was shunted out of the defence committee just because he had raised a question on national security," Gandhi said at the Parade Grounds rally. Gandhi also garlanded Manish Khanduri to formally induct him into the party. --IANS str/ksk/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) After the unveiling of actress Deepika Padukone's wax statue at Madame Tussauds museum here, her actor-husband Ranveer Singh took to social media to express love for his wife over her new achievement. Ranveer on Friday posted several photographs of himself with Deepika's wax statue. But it was his caption which stole all the limelight. Along with the photographs, Ranveer, a proud husband wrote: "DP 2.0! Original toh...mere paas hai (I have the original Deepika)! two much to handle." To that, Deepika jokingly said: "Now you know where to go when you miss me too much." On getting the wax statue, Deepika earlier said: "After I got a call from Madame Tussauds, I thought 'What is the purpose of this, why are we doing this, or what is it that my fans will remember me for, remember my figure for, what is it that I would like to leave behind', and the cause of mental health is very close to my heart, it is something that I am extremely passionate about. "I said that's it, I would like for my fans when they see my figure I hope it reminds them of someone who did something for the cause of mental illness, who worked towards creating awareness and de-stigmatising mental illness. "I hope that it gives people a sense of upliftment and a sense of hope. I hope that message comes through." --IANS sim/dc/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The political edge which the national opposition appeared to have gained as a result of its successes in three recent Assembly elections and in several by-elections before that has undoubtedly dissipated. It isn't only Surgical Strike 2.0 which has robbed the opposition parties of their earlier momentum. What has also checked their impetus is the familiar malady of being too self-centred to take the initiative in building a 'mahagathbandhan' or a grand alliance based on mutual accommodation. It is worth noting that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has proved to be more adept at evolving a consensus among its own allies which included the intemperate Shiv Sena, which had been carping against Big Brother almost throughout the last five years. Moreover, notwithstanding the reservations harboured by the northeastern parties against the BJP over the anti-minority Citizenship Bill, the latter has succeeded in mollifying them in order to build an alliance in the region. It is obvious that for all their seeming arrogance, the Narendra Modi-Amit Shah duo know when to take a step back to placate a miffed ally. The Congress, on the other hand, has been steadily losing its own members in ones and twos as they obviously sense that the pastures are greener on the other side. The Congress also made no effort to reach an understanding with the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in Uttar Pradesh in the belief that it is influential enough in the state to fight on its own. The result is that the Congress may even face a challenge from the SP and the BSP in Amethi and Rae Bareli, its two pocket boroughs, bringing a broad smile to the BJP's face. UP is one state where the Congress could have shown a better understanding of its current diminished status to leave the field open for the SP and the BSP. Instead, the Congress has confirmed the BSP supremo Mayawati's fear that it intends to undercut her Dalit base. Her apprehension will be further strengthened by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's visit to the young Dalit leader, Chandrashekhar Azad "Ravana", in hospital. Such overtures validate Marxist leader Sitaram Yechury's view that the Congress should get its priorities right such as whether its primary objective is to defeat the BJP. Instead, the Congress appears intent on playing political games within the non-BJP camp, anchored in its "Middle Kingdom" conviction of still being the Grand Old Party of yore, capable of setting the terms of the political discourse. Hence, as in UP, it has been hesitant about aligning with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Delhi and Haryana - a tactic which cannot but divide the anti-BJP votes. It cannot be gainsaid that some of these missteps are the result of Rahul Gandhi's inexperience in deciphering the intricacies of an admittedly complex electoral scene. Unlike Sonia Gandhi's famous walk to Ram Vilas Paswan's house before the 2004 general elections, Rahul has taken no such initiative to stitch up an alliance. It is not the Congress alone which appears to be not focused enough on fighting the BJP. Other parties, too, have been more interested in saving their bailiwicks from the BJP than in adopting a national perspective. Among them is Mamata Banerjee who believes, perhaps rightly, that her main opponent in West Bengal at present is the BJP. But that didn't prevent her from keeping Rahul out of a Kolkata rally presumably because of the fear that his presence would have detracted attention from her own performance as a preparation for a larger role on the national stage. If Rahul has been virtually carrying the opposition campaign on his shoulders with no other leader choosing to stand by his side, the reason apparently is his inability to establish a rapport with the others. Since he is not as effective a speaker as Modi, Rahul and the other opposition leaders could have focussed on more public meetings, even relatively small ones, where leaders such as Sharad Pawar or Yechury or Omar Abdullah or Tejashwi Yadav or M.K. Stalin could have participated along with the Congress president. It is not always necessary to hold a "mega" rally to make a point. In the absence of such joint, concerted endeavours, the opposition appears to be losing the plot. Yet, opinion polls have indicated that despite the prevailing nationalist sentiments following the air strikes on the Jaish-e-Muhammed hideout in Pakistan, the general elections may still produce a "hung" parliament. The reason, as a poll has shown, is that unemployment and not terrorism remains the primary concern of the ordinary people. Moreover, as the views of more than 100 academics have shown, the government's efforts to hide or fudge the data on employment have not proved successful. All is, therefore, not lost for the opposition. But it is up to the Congress to take the lead as the first party among equals to target the primary opponent and not see rivals in the opposition's own ranks. (Amulya Ganguli is a political analyst. The views expressed are personal. He can be reached at amulyaganguli@gmail.com ) --IANS amulya/vm/am Sent from my iPhone (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Veteran actors Jeetendra and Asha Parekh starrer "Caravan" will be screened at the upcoming Hainan Island International Film Festival (HIIFF) in China. The 1971 Bollywood classic will be shown under the category of 2019 Spring screening Gems of Asia - Spotlight on India. Happy about the screening, Jeetendra said in a statement: "I am honoured to know that 'Caravan' movie has been chosen by committee to be screened on the day of opening ceremony in the festival. "This is the great initiative which will enrich and promote the cultural exchanges between China and India." Directed by the legendary filmmaker Nasir Hussain, "Caravan" was a thriller which also starred actress Aruna Irani in a pivotal role. The film was released in China later and its music by the "Mozart of Bollywood", R.D. Burman become very popular then, read a statement. Founder of the Beijing-based India China Film Society (ICFS), Kishor Jawade said: "It is a tribute to Indian cinema by specially screening of 'Caravan' by HIIFF and ICFS." Nitin Sharma, International head of events, ICFS, termed the screening as an "absolute honour and a proud moment for Bollywood". The festival will be held from March 23 to April 16 in the city of Sanya on the Hainan Island. --IANS sim/dc/ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan on Saturday announced that she was giving up her Z-plus security as well as the protocol vehicles that formed part of her cavalcade in her capacity as the Speaker in the Lower House. In a letter to Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, Mahajan said although neither her candidature has been announced nor the notification for the Indore Lok Sabha seat has come, she feels in a "peaceful, safe city" like Indore she did not need the security apparatus as well as other government vehicles. "Although I am still entitled to the security and protocol vehicles -- and they are still accompanying my car -- as I still hold the constitutional position of the Lok Sabha Speaker, I want to inform you (Chief Minister) that I am giving up these facilities," Mahajan said in the letter. --IANS mak/arm/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Software giant Microsoft is planning to increase the maximum number of people who could be part of a Skype group call from 25 to 50 members. With this update, Skype is also enabling the audio and video buttons in larger groups to let users easily mute their microphones or turn their webcams on or off as per their convenience, Engadget reported on Friday. Keeping the call ringing feature completely optional, Skype Version 8.41.76.55 would notify users of an incoming call by just sending a notification on the group. "When you start a call in groups, it will send a notification instead of ringing all the members, to not interrupt those who can't join," the company wrote in a blog-post. These features have been made available for beta testers on all platforms and are likely roll out more broadly later. --IANS rp/ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Gearing up for the coming Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched the 'Main Bhi Chowkidar" campaign, calling everyone who were fighting corruption, social evils and working hard for the progress of India, as watchmen. "Your Chowkidar is standing firm and serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar," Modi said in a series of tweets. "Today, every Indian is saying. Main Bhi Chowkidar," he added. With the tweet, the Prime Minister also shared a 3.45-minute video titled "Take The Pledge", urging people to join Modi on March 31 at 6 p.m. for a video programme titled 'Main Bhi Chowkidar". In the video, Modi called himself a watchman and said that he was not alone, in a counter to Congress President Rahul Gandhi's "chowkidar chor hai" jibe. Bharatiya Janata Party sources said the campaign was launched as part of its strategy to turn the tables against Gandhi's jibe as it did in 2014 by aggressively countering former Union Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar's "chaiwalla" jibe. Following Modi's tweet, several BJP leaders also used the #MainBhiChowkidar hashtag and tweeted. "I am proud to join #MainBhiChowkidar movement. As a citizen who loves India, I shall do my best to defeat corruption, dirt, poverty and terrorism and help create a New India which is strong, secure and prosperous," Union Minister Piyush Goyal said. R.K. Singh, Minister of State (IC) for Power and Renewable Energy said anyone who took a stand and raised their voice was a Chowkidar. "In our fight against corruption, social injustice of any manner and on any person; anyone who takes a stand and raises their voice is a Chowkidar. I'm proud to play my part for a corruption-free and Clean India. Let's all raise our voices and take the pledge. #MainBhiChowkidar," he said. BJP MP Anil Shirole retweeted Modi's tweet and called himself a watchman. "Yes I am proud to be a Chowkidar... Yes #MainBhiChowkidar, sevak of the nation and it's people..working hard to protect the citizens from the evils of corruption, poverty, sickness, illiteracy, uncleanliness and terrorism," he said. --IANS nks/ksk (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 28-year-old man from Australia appeared in a local court here on Saturday and was charged with murder in connection with the mass shootings at two mosques in the New Zealand city. The suspect identified as Brenton Harrison Tarrant, appeared before district court judge Paul Kellar here on Saturday morning and was charged with one count of murder, The Guardian reported. "There is one charge of murder brought at the moment, it is reasonable to assume that there will be others," the judge was quoted as saying by The Guardian. Tarrant has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on April 5. Meanwhile, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern reiterated to the public on Saturday morning that New Zealand's gun law would be changed in the wake of the terror attacks, Xinhua reported. "Our gun law will be changed," said Ardern. Major public events during the weekend have all been cancelled across New Zealand as the authorities tightened up security. At least 49 people were killed and 48 others, including an Indian, injured when at least two gunmen, said to be right-wing extremists, opened indiscriminate fire during Friday prayers at two mosques here on Friday. --IANS vin/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Saturday said gun laws would change in the country as her government announced it will ban semi-automatic rifles in the wake of the Christchurch terror attack that left 49 people dead. "There were five guns used by the primary perpetrator," she said at a news conference here. "There were two semi-automatic weapons and two shotguns. The offender was in possession of a gun licence. I'm advised this was acquired in November of 2017. A lever-action firearm was also found." She said the prime suspect, identified as 28-year-old Australian Brenton Tarrant, obtained a gun licence in November 2017 and began purchasing guns legally in December 2017. "While work is being done as to the chain of events that lead to both the holding of this gun licence and the possession of these weapons, I can tell you one thing right now. Our gun laws will change," Ardern said. She said the proposed reforms, which will be the focus of a Cabinet meeting on Monday, will also focus on the ease with which legal weapons can be modified to become military-style assault rifles, which are more strictly controlled. Meanwhile, authorities in both Australia and New Zealand were asked to review why the suspect was not listed on any counter-terrorism watchlist, despite reportedly planning the attack for several years. Tarrant identified himself as a member of online far-right extremist networks and the massacre was live-streamed on social media. New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush told reporters that the guns used in the killings were able to be purchased legally under a "category-A" licence, which is the entry-level gun licence in New Zealand and does not require a licence holder to register their weapons. However, the weapons were not legal as they were found by the police after the attack. "A category-A firearm holder can purchase the firearms without the magazines or the things that will enable them to be in the state that they were," Bush said. The sale of normal semi-automatic guns is not restricted in New Zealand. The same weapons can only be acquired by licensed professional hunters in Australia, and must be individually imported. University of Sydney gun control expert Philip Alpers, the founder of global site gunpolicy.org, told the Guardian that Ardern had the opportunity to introduce sweeping gun reform, starting with the restriction of semi-automatic rifles and the creation of a central gun register, provided she "acted quickly". --IANS soni/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Although the main battle in the Lok Sabha and the Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir is likely to be between traditional rivals, yet the fate of many new faces who have thrown their hats into the ring would be keenly watched. While the main battle is going to be between the regional National Conference (NC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the centrist Congress, emergence of new political forces would make the upcoming elections interesting to watch. And one of the new political forces could be Sajad Lone-led Peoples Conference (PC), which is likely to pose a challenge to the NC and the PDP, even if leaders of these parties do not want to overplay the threat. Senior Shia leader and former Minister Imran Raza Ansari has joined Sajad's the PC as well as some former PDP legislators. Sajad, a minister in the Mehbooba Mufti-led PDP-BJP ruling coalition, had been accommodated by the BJP in the cabinet from its own ministerial quota. Sajad hit the headlines when he called Prime Minister Narendra Modi his 'elder brother' during the 2014 Assembly elections, which he won from the Handwara constituency. In the violence-ravaged Valley, a local non-BJP leader calling Modi elder brother was seen as a bold gesture. He has denied forming any Third Front in the state, asserting his father late Abdul Gani Lone had floated the PC as a political party with its own agenda and moorings. The fate of PC candidates would be keenly watched during both the elections as Sajad has decided to field candidates in all the J&K seats. Another party to come up is the Dogra Swabhiman Sanghathan, formed by Choudhary Lal Singh, a rebel BJP leader. Singh could field candidates for the Assembly elections and himself contest the Kathua-Udhampur Lok Sabha seat. According to political observers, he has his pockets of influence in the Kathua district and could cut into the BJP's committed vote bank in the constituency. While the NC and the Congress are likely to shortly announce a pre-poll alliance for the Lok Sabha elections, the Farooq Abdullah-led party has decided not to repeat the pre-poll alliance with the Congress for the Assembly elections. As far as newbies are concerned, two senior IAS officers, two judges, two retired top police officers and many other former bureaucrats and engineers would be trying their luck at the hustings this time. The most prominent among the former IAS officers is Shah Faesal. He became a household name in the state after topping the 2009 civil service examinations, the first candidate from the state to do so. He became a role model for thousands of Kashmiris, pursuing dreams of becoming administrators. After serving at many senior positions in the state bureaucracy, Faesal went to the US on a Fullbright fellowship at the prestigious Harvard Kennedy School. On return, he announced his intention to give up the comforts of an assured career in the bureaucracy and join the hustle and bustle of Approached by many political parties, Faesal wants to chalk his own path. "People wanted me to form a new political party since they have tried all the old ones. I have a mission and a dream. I want to fight the system while remaining within it," he told IANS. He is likely to announce his new party -- Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Movement (JKPM) -- on Sunday. JNU students' union activist Shehla Rashid and some other prominent locals are expected to join Faesal in his fight against atrocities, rights violations, corruption and exploitation. Former state minister Javaid Mustafa Mir who quit the PDP announced his intentions to contest the Lok Sabha elections from north Kashmir's Baramulla constituency. He may face Muhammad Akbar Lone (NC) and Abdul Qayoom Wani (PDP) in the constituency. Another senior IAS officer Farooq Ahmad Shah recently quit the government services to join the NC. Welcoming Shah into the party, former Chief Minister and NC Vice-President Omar Abdullah said his entry would improve the party's chances to win the Tangmarg Assembly seat. Shah belongs to the Tangmarg area, north Kashmir, and is believed to wield considerable influence there because of his family background and the good work he did in Gulmarg both as the chief executive officer and later as the director tourism. The NC has not won this seat since 2002, when Omar's uncle and senior NC leader Mustafa Kamal was defeated by Ghulam Hassan Mir of the Democratic Party Nationalist (DPN). Two retired inspectors general of police (IGPs), Raja Aijaz Ali and Shafqat Ali Watali, have also joined the NC. While Ali is expected to help the NC in the Uri Assembly constituency, Watali could be fielded against Engineer Abdul Rashid (independent) from the Langate seat. Though the Watali family belongs to the Handwara area of north Kashmir, defeating a well-entrenched Engineer Rashid would not be easy for the former police officer. Two district and sessions judges, Syed Tawqeer Ahmad and Muzaffar Iqbal Khan, have also taken premature retirement to join Thus, the electoral prospects of Sajad's PC and former bureaucrats, police officers and judges would be keenly watched in the state. Will the emergence of new political equations and individuals impact mainstream is a big question that only the time can tell. --IANS sq/vm/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Working night shifts may deteriorate your quality of life by affecting your bladder, researchers have warned. Night shift workers reported a significantly higher rate of overactive bladder, and a poorer quality of life when compared with day shift workers, suggests the study presented at the European Association of Urology Congress in Barcelona. They also need to pee more, said researchers, including Cosimo De Nunzio of Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome. "We know that long-term night work is stressful, and is associated with increased levels of health problems. This work shows that constant night workers may have a higher urinary frequency as well as a decline in their own quality of life," said De Nunzio. "One of the most concerning things about this work is everyone in our sample was under 50. We normally expect bladder problems with older people, but here we have younger people expressing a deteriorating quality of life," the author added. For the study, the researchers surveyed 68 men and 68 women between March and October 2018. All were workers in the Italian National Health System, with 66 of the volunteers working night shifts, on average, 11 hours per night shift. The 70 day workers worked an average of 9.1 hours per day. Using the generally accepted Overactive Bladder Questionnaire, the team found that those on night shift reported an average total score of 31, as against a score of 19 for those working day shifts. The team also found that night workers scored a significantly worse quality of life, with scores of 41 against 31 with day shift workers. --IANS vc/ksk/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Election Commission on Saturday asked leaders of all political parties to not give any media interviews during the "silence period", or 48 hours before start of polling when campaigning comes to end. "During the silence period, star campaigners and other political leaders should refrain from addressing the media by way of press conferences and giving interviews on election matters," the poll panel said in an advisory. A controversy had broken out during the Gujarat Assembly elections in 2017 when Congress President Rahul Gandhi gave interviews to some regional TV channels a day ahead of the polling. The Congress had hit back by pointing out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi organised a road show a day before polling. The EC has also cautioned campaigners to not make any reference to a constituency where the silence period is being observed. "In a multi-phased election, the silence period of last 48 hours may be on in certain constituencies while campaign is ongoing in other constituencies. In such event, there should not be any direct or indirect reference amounting to soliciting support for parties or candidates in the constituencies observing the silence period," it said. The poll panel underlined that Section 126 of the Representation of People Act, 1951, "inter-alia prohibits election campaign activities through public meetings, processions etc, and displaying of election matter by means of television and similar apparatus". "The purpose sought to be served by this prohibition is to provide a period of tranquil (silence period) for the electors before the voting day," it said. --IANS mak/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Twenty-eight-year-old Brenton Tarrant, the main suspect in the deadly terror attack on two mosques in Christchurch, opened fire on worshippers using rifles covered in white-supremacist graffiti after listening to a song glorifying a Bosnian Serb war criminal. Two of the rifles used by the the right-wing extremist who filmed himself during the Friday bloodbath that claimed 49 lives mentioned Ebba Akerlund, an 11-year-old girl killed in April 2017 when an Uzbek man, Rakhmat Akilov, rammed his truck into people in Stockholm. Akerlund's death was memorialised in the gunman's apparent manifesto, which was published online, as an event that drove him to wage war against what he perceived as "the enemies of Western civilisation". The name Charles Martel, hailed by white supremacists for defeating an invading Muslim force at the Battle of Tours in 732, was also displayed on weapons used in the carnage. According to reports, the number 14 was also seen on the gunman's rifles. The number may refer to 14 Words, which according to the Southern Poverty Law Centre, is a white supremacist slogan linked to Adolf Hitler's Mein Kampf. The centre which monitors hate groups said that Tarrant also used the symbol of the Schwarze Sonne, or black sun, which "has become synonymous with myriad far-right groups". Four names of famous Serbs who fought against the 500-year rule of the Ottomans in the Balkans, written in the Cyrillic alphabet, were also seen on the gunman's rifles. The footage showed Tarrant driving to the first mosque while listening to a song idolising Radovan Karadzic, who was jailed for genocide and other war crimes against Bosnian Muslims. The 74-page "manifesto" Tarrant posted online listed various neo-fascist aims, including the creation of an atmosphere of fear among Muslims. He espoused far-right and anti-immigrant ideology in the document. He claimed that he had brief contact with the Norwegian mass murderer Anders Breivik, who gave his "blessing" to the attack. In the document, called "the great replacement", Tarrant described himself as a "regular white man from a regular family" who "decided to take a stand to ensure a future for my people". He said he wanted his attack on the mosques to send a message that "nowhere in the world is safe". The document said the attack was planned for two years and that although New Zealand was not the original choice of location, Christchurch was scoped out three months in advance. --IANS soni/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar's health condition has been fluctuating for several days and had only briefly worsened on Saturday morning, Union Minister Shripad Naik said. Parrikar's health was "stable" now and all other information was just rumours, he told media persons here. "These are just rumours. His health has been witnessing ups and downs for the last several days. Today too, the same thing had happened for some time, but he is stable now. There is no problem as such," Naik said. Earlier on Saturday, the Chief Minister's Office issued a statement that the health of Parrikar, who is being treated at his private residence for advanced pancreatic cancer, was "stable", after media reports said that his health conditions had worsened. Sources, requesting anonymity, told IANS that Parrikar's blood pressure had dropped considerably on Saturday morning. Parrikar, diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer in February 2018, and has been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai, Delhi and New York since. State Town and Country Planning Minister Vijai Sardesai, who heads the Goa Forward Party, also said that Parrikar's condition had deteriorated but he was "stable now" and he was not on life support. Sardesai, who visited Parrikar's private residence with five legislators (four from the ruling dispensation and an Independent), also indicated that the six were fully committed to the current dispensation, but only with Parrikar at the helm. "When the cancer was detected and when the CM had shown willingness that he would step down, even then six of us wanted a permanent solution and stability for Goa. Even now, when the CM's health has deteriorated, even now we are with him. He is stable, but what is the term in medical science I am not aware," he told reporters outside Parrikar's residence. Asked to specify the exact condition, Sardesai said: "He is not on life support. If you ask politicians about which medical terms to use, then I am making myself open to so many interpretations. It is not right. We have to respect his privacy". Asked if the time had come, in view of Parrikar's failing health, for a change of leadership in the BJP-led coalition government, he said: "See, whether the time is come for a new legislature party leader of BJP, it is for the BJP to decide. It is not for us to decide". Until six months ago, Sardesai and his group of MLAs had been demanding a "permanent solution" to the crisis which had arisen following Parrikar's prolonged health condition. However, on Saturday, he insisted that the support of the group was only to a Parrikar-led dispensation, while dubbing questions about its position in the absence of Parrikar as hypothetical. "We have been with Manohar Parrikar unequivocally. We are with him now. He is the Chief Minister. Ifs and buts we will not discuss. We will not discuss hypothetical situations. As and when we come to that we will take a decision. But we (six MLAs) will be together," Sardesai said. While the coalition was being cobbled together in 2017, Sardesai, along with other coalition partners, had given a written undertaking to Governor Mridula Sinha that they would be part of the government only if Parrikar heads it. --IANS maya/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati on Saturday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of wasting public money for self promotion. The former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister tweeted: "Modi was busy mostly in laying foundation stones for various projects. He has spent Rs 3,044 crore on publicity. "Instead, this government could have used this money for education and better medical facilities in every village of backward states like Uttar Pradesh. "However, for the BJP, there is no greater emphasis that is needed than on itself." The tweets of the 63-year-old Dalit leader was in Hindi. "BJP and PM are hell bent on deflecting the attention of people from the failures of their government," she added. The ruling party at the Centre, which is also at the helm in her state has "miserably failed to address serious issues like unemployment and poverty", she said. "They run away from any kind of public debate," she added. Cautioning people from falling into the BJP's trap, Mayawati said these were mere tactics to divert people's attention from the real issues in public discourse. The BJP was also "digging up all sorts of skeletons in cupboards" of opposition parties, she pointed out, and condemned the ploy. --IANS md/in (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Militants killed a woman Special Police Officer (SPO) on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district, police said. The terrorists shot dead Khushboo Jan from close range while she was on her home village, Vehil. "She suffered critical bullet injuries around 2.40 p.m. and was rushed to a hospital where she succumbed," the police added. A cordon and search operation was underway to trace the assailants. SPOs are engaged by the state police on fixed monthly remuneration to fight militancy in the state. They are neither imparted training to handle firearms nor are weapons issued to them. The SPOs represent the lowest rung of police officials below the state constabulary that is adequately trained to handle weapons and are also issued service weapons. --IANS sq/in (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Anger simmers in the town since surfacing of murky details of the sexual abuse-blackmail case that shredded the town's reputation. What has shocked the residents most is that the key accused turned out to be the boys next door. Although the residents whom IANS spoke to declined to go on record, they did express their anger at the sordid episode. Many felt violated, too. "The sexual abuse-blackmail case is unbelievable, shocking and shameful. Pollachi, an agricultural-cum-business town, always commanded respect from people in Tamil Nadu. But now its reputation is in tatters," a hotelier said. Four youths -- Thirunavukkarasu, Sathish, Sabarirajan and Vasanthakumar, all in their 20s -- have been accused of assaulting women and filming their act to blackmail them for money or for physical submission for over seven years. "Sabarirajan's father is a pious man, a hardworking mason. It is unbelievable that his son was involved in this," the hotelier said. As the sordid details started oozing out, upset residents and students hit the streets demanding action against the accused. The district administration was forced to declare holiday for colleges as students seethed with anger and frustration. Students from other towns also joined the protests. Political parties and social organisations were also not far behind. "More than the girls, the boys have to be brought up carefully with proper counselling and monitoring" is the common refrain in the town. "Recently, I was in Madurai. There the driver of the taxi I hired was courteous and helpful. But when he came to know that I was from Pollachi, his attitude changed. He became silent. That in itself is a message," Ganesh, a resident of Pollachi, told IANS. He also wondered how the accused continued to abuse women for over seven years. The house where the girls were abused belonged to Thirunavukkarasu. The people of the area were unaware of the happenings inside that house. Neighbours of the accused, too, are surprised to know that the boy next door was involved in this horrible crime. The town is famous for coconut and various other agri-products. "Till 1980s different crops like sugarcane, turmeric, paddy and coconut were grown here. As getting agriculture labour became difficult, some land owners turned towards coconut farming or sold their lands to real estate developers," a senior resident of the town told IANS. He said: "Pollachi was famous in the region and commanded respect. Now, the reputation built over decades has been spoiled by the deeds of these accused." The residents want the accused to be punished early to deter others from indulging in any such activity. The view is shared not just by the residents of the town but also the state as well as the nation. Speaking to reporters in Chennai, noted music director Illaiyaraaja said: "My feelings on the Pollachi issue is similar to the feeling prevailing in every heart." The Editor of Pollachi Papyrus, Pravin Shanmughanandam, said: "Such a sordid incident has happened because the Pollachi society has lost sight of its heritage, tradition and culture. From traditionally hard working agricultural and entrepreneurial town, Pollachi has now become a profit-chasing town. "People today do not know what Pollachi was all about. Now it is more money minded unlike yesteryear." The elderly should now allow the youth who knows Pollachi's tradition to have a say in the town affairs. There should be people participation in all aspects affecting Pollachi, he said. "In Coimbatore, there are various forums to voice their views. There influential people come out and voice their views. Such a thing was not happening in Pollachi and at least now it starts now," the editor told IANS. (Venkatachari Jagannathan can be contacted at v.jagannathan@ians.in) --IANS vj/nir (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Anger simmers in the town after murky details of the sexual abuse-cum-blackmail case blew up in the residents' faces and shredded the town's reputation. What has shocked them most is that the key accused are boys next door. Though the residents whom IANS spoke to declined to go on record, they did express their anger at the sordid episode. Many felt violated too. "The sexual abuse-cum-blackmail is unbelievable, shocking and shameful. Pollachi, an agricultural-cum-business town, always commanded respect from people in Tamil Nadu. But now its reputation is in tatters," a hotelier told IANS. Four youths -- Thirunavukkarasu, Sathish, Sabarirajan, Vasanthakumar -- all in their 20s, have been accused of assaulting women and filming their act to blackmail them for money or for physical submission for over seven years. "Sabirajan's father is a pious man, a hardworking mason. It is unbelievable that his son was involved in this," he said. As the sordid details started oozing out, upset residents and students hit the streets demanding action against the accused. The district administration was forced to declare holiday for colleges as students seethed with anger and frustration. Students from other towns also joined the protests. Various political parties and social organisations were also not far behind. More than the girl, the boys have to be brought up carefully with proper counselling and monitoring, is the common refrain in the town. "Recently I was in Madurai. There the driver of the taxi I hired was courteous and helpful. But when he came to know that I was from Pollachi, his attitude changed. He became silent. That in itself is a message," Ganesh, a resident of Pollachi, told IANS. He also wondered how the accused continued to abuse women for over seven years. The house where the girls were abused belonged to Thirunavukkarasu. The people of the area were unaware of the happenings inside that house. Neighbours of the accused too are surprised to know that the boy next door was involved in this horrible crime. The town is famous for coconut and various other agri-products. "Till 1980s different crops like sugarcane, turmeric, paddy and coconut were raised here. As getting agriculture labour became difficult, some land owners turned towards coconut farming or sold their lands to real estate developers," a senior resident of the town told IANS. He said Pollachi was famous in the region and commanded respect. Now, the reputation built over decades has been spoiled by the deeds of these accused. The residents want the accused to be punished early to deter others from indulging in any such activity. The view is shared not just by the residents of the town, but also the state as well as the nation. Speaking to reporters in Chennai, noted music director Illaiyaraaja said: "My feelings on the Pollachi issue is similar to the feeling prevailing in every heart." (Venkatachari Jagannathan can be contacted at v.jagannathan@ians.in) --IANS vj/in/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The trading community here is planning a protest shutdown on Tuesday and a rally demanding a court-monitored probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the Pollachi serial sexual abuse-cum-blackmail case, said a shopkeeper. Speaking to IANS, the the trader said the shutdown and rally will see participation of different political parties and social organisations. After days of protests by students, political parties and various other social organisations it was relatively calm on Saturday here. Four persons -- Thirunavukkarasu, Sathish, Sabarirajan, Vasanthakumar -- all in their 20s, have been accused of sexually assaulting women in Pollachi and filming the act to blackmail them for money or for physical submission for over seven years. Students and other organisations hit the roads for the past several days demanding stringent punishment for the culprits. The Crime Branch-Crime Investigation Department (CBCID) has taken one of the prime accused -- Thirunavukkarasu -- to an undisclosed location for interrogation. The CBCID got Thirunavukkarasu's custody on Friday. It has already written to social media organisations requesting them to remove the videos pertaining to the Pollachi abuse case. On Friday, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court told the central government to remove all videos related to the Pollachi serial sexual assaults from the Internet. In Chennai, a lawyer has filed a public interest litigation in the High Court for a court-monitored CBI probe. The petition was expected to come up for hearing next week. --IANS vj/in (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Not satisfied with her cozy job at a corporate hospital here, a psychologist joined a team that is helping to prevent farmers' suicides in parts of Telangana. Shruti Naik wanted to explore the area of rural distress and found the task more challenging. Her experience in three districts of Telangana that reported the highest cases of farmers' suicides in the country has helped her understand the problem. "I realized how severe the problem is and how misconceptions get propagated in the outside world," Naik told IANS at the office of the 'Kisan Mitra' helpline at Tarnaka here. "The farmers are victims of circumstances, economic disparity and farm related issues. With no way to repay their loans, they suffer harassment at the hands of private money lenders and banks and the constant worry of how will I repay debts and manage my family haunts them." Kisan Mitra, run by Centre for Sustainable Agriculture, an NGO, provides last mile delivery of services to farmers with respect to their entitlements. It serves as a bridge between government and farmers and tries to see that issues faced by farmers are resolved which otherwise would make them to go into distress. It was started in 2017 in Vikarabad district at the initiative of then District Collector Divya Devarajan, who suggested that the NGO should take up the matter. However, they realized that it was not just the helpline which was required. "Sometimes, farmers in distress may not approach us as seeking help is considered a stigma. Then we decided to have field teams who would speak to farmers," she said. The helpline expanded its activity to Adilabad, a backward district bordering Maharashtra, after Devarajan was transferred there as the Collector. Subsequently, it also began its activities in Mancherial district. "We have so far received 8,000 calls relating to problems like land issues, crop related, payments, loans and banker-related issues. We tried to resolve 4,000 cases. Not all were in distress. The idea is to solve problems before they go into distress," said Naik. She heads a team of seven members, all women. The counselors who receive the calls take down the details of the farmers and forward them to the respective field-level coordinators for follow-up. It is also working with the government to rehabilitate the families of farmers who committed suicide. On International Women's Day last year in Adilabad district, it called a meeting of 120 widows and their families. They were provided alternative livelihood with the government's support. The problems of tenant farmers is a huge issue in Telangana. They are not covered under the 'Rythu Bandhu' scheme being implemented by the state government to provide investment support of Rs 8,000 per acre per year. Studies show that 75 per cent of farmers who commit suicide in Telangana are tenant farmers. Kisan Mitra has helped 5,000 tenant farmers in Adilabad obtain loan eligibility cards. It negotiated with some bankers to form joint liability groups with 4-5 in each group. The groups were provided loans of Rs 1 lakh each. Naik believes depression among farmers is a consequence of circumstances and farm and finance related issues. "If they get some handholding they will do well. If they are helped in areas like minimum support price and if there is some awareness created about debt management, they will not resort to suicides," she said.(Mohammed Shafeeq can be reached at m.shafeeq@ians.in ) --IANS ms/vm/am (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday met the family members of three martyrs who died in separate incidents in Jammu and Kashmir. Soon after addressing a rally here, Gandhi went to late Major Chitresh Bisht's house in Nehru Colony. He was killed in an IED blast in Naushera sector. Bisht's father broke down when Gandhi met him, Congress state vice president Suryakant Dhasmana, who was also present, told IANS. After expressing his condolences to the grieving family members, Gandhi went to the house of Mohan Lal Raturi, who was killed in the February 14 Pulwama terror attack, at Kanwali Road. Later, he went to the residence of Major Vibhuti Shanker Dhaundiyal, who was killed in an encounter after the Pulwama attack, at Dangwal Road. "Gandhi expressed his condolences and said he too had faced the pain of losing his father and grandmother in similar attacks," said Dhasmana. --IANS str/mag/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Accusing the Congress and its President Rahul Gandhi of raising "manufactured issues" in their electoral campaign, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday said if those "fake" issues were taken out of Gandhi's speech, nothing will be left. In a Facebook post, Jaitley said that "falsehood falls apart" and that the "overconfidence" of opposition leaders undermining the electorates' wisdom would not go unpunished in the Lok Sabha elections. "Rahul Gandhi has led not only his party but the entire opposition to rely on fake and manufactured issues. They raise fake issues, create an echo effect and then believe their falsehood to be true. It's time that they come out of the cocoon of falsehood or perish there," he said. "Fake issues raised in Rafale, Balakot, Judge Loya's death, bank loan waiver, JNU issue, EVM, GST, demonetisation or Nirav Modi and Mallya, or be it the special status for Andhra Pradesh or the issues of economy, every time fakery and manufactured issues of opposition fell apart...If fake issues are taken out of Rahul Gandhi's speech, nothing will perhaps be left," he said. Accusing the opposition of underestimating the wisdom of the electorate, Jaitley said the electorate would also underestimate India's opposition parties and show them their place. "Poll campaigners must know that a campaign of fake issues never works...The real strength of Indian democracy is the inherent wisdom of the voters. They punish non-performers and they vote back those who deliver. Pollsters, political pandits and commentators usually go wrong," he added. Jaitley said the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government was led by a leader with whom the comfort level of the voters was high and hence the opposition was in a state of panic with its "negative" single point programme -- "remove one man". "The level of their ambition is limited. Indian voters have huge potential to distinguish between truth and falsehood and they prefer fairness. Political leaders are over-confident of their wisdom. Little do they realise that the electorate is wiser than them. Voters are capable of punishing those who resort to falsehood," he said. Expressing confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party under Prime Minister Narendra Modi would get a clear mandate in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, Jaitley said unlike many western democracies, a sizeable section of India's population was not permanently politically affiliated and their vote preferences varied from election to election. He said that hung Assemblies and Parliament are predicted only in opinion polls and since the voter is far more decisive, he endeavours to elect a government with a clear mandate with the front-runner getting more seats than predicted. In a point-by-point rebuttal of the opposition's electoral issues, Jaitley rejected its contention that a costlier Rafale was purchased by the present government while giving favours to a domestic industrialist violating procedures. He said both the Supreme Court and the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) cleared the deal, rejecting all contentions of the opposition. On the criticism that the BJP was politicising the terror attack in Pulwama and the Indian Air Force (IAF) strikes at Balakot in Pakistan, and its demand that evidence of what happened at Balakot should be placed in the public domain, Jaitley said the Indian armed forces consider it "not in the interest of national security and military discipline that the details of military operations should be placed in public domain." On the opposition's allegations of waiving loans worth Rs 2.5 lakh crore of 15 industrialists, he reiterated that "not one rupee of loan has been waived" and in fact, the present government through its new Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code had recovered almost Rs 3 lakh crore worth of non-performing assets (NPAs) in the last two years. Jaitley also rejected the opposition's charge of electronic voting machines (EVMs) being tampered with, saying there "was a problem with the political losers." "It is the same machine with which the Congress party won the recent Assembly elections." On the Goods and Services Tax (GST), which the opposition has labelled as "a disaster", the Finance Minister said all the opposition parties had supported it and it was a part of the Congress manifesto. "The opposition alleges that demonetisation was a failure which caused tremendous hardship to the poor people. Demonetisation caused hardship only to the holders of black money. It helped in formalising the economy... It hastened the digitisation of the Indian economy. India today collects more taxes at lower rates and uses them for the benefit of the poor," he said. On the charge that Nirav Modi and Vijay Mallya were helped by the BJP government, Jaitley said that their crimes were committed when the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) was in power and it was the BJP government which was trying to bring them to justice. "Nobody who frauds India can escape," he said. On the issue of jobs, he said India was the fastest growing economy in the world and its multiplier effect on jobs was very large. --IANS vv/arm/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress President Rahul Gandhi has set a hectic pace of campaign for the Lok Sabha polls visiting six states in the past week and has outlined the partys electoral thrust to raise social and economic issues including jobs, healthcare and farm loans to oust the Modi government. Gandhi has been touring one state after another since the announcement of the poll schedule on Sunday last and has visited Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Uttarakhand besides Delhi. The Congress has also taken a lead in declaring its candidates and has come out with three lists containing 54 names. Gandhi will be in Karnataka on Monday, Arunachal Pradesh on Tuesday and Manipur and Tripura on Wednesday. Apart from political rallies, Gandhi has addressed booth workers meetings, interacted with health professionals and addressed a press conference. His programmes also include interactions with students and opinion makers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not yet addressed a political rally since the announcement of schedule for Lok Sabha polls. Gandhi has also been setting the themes of party's campaign. In his visit to Tamil Nadu, he announced 33 per cent reservation for women in government jobs. During his visit to Chhattisgarh, he announced that Congress will ensure right to healthcare for people and said it will be more beneficial to people compared to Ayushman Bharat scheme of the Modi government. In his rallies and interactions, Gandhi has also been talking of minimum income guarantee scheme, farm loan waiver, jobs and removing "flaws" in implementation of Goods and Services Tax, which will be replaced by a single rate GST. Gandhi has also been making allegations against Modi over alleged corruption, calling him "chor" (thief) and has been seeking to portray him as a friend of the rich who was not concerned about the farmers and the common man. He has accused the BJP of not fulfilling its poll promises including on creating jobs. --IANS ps/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress President Rahul Gandhi will kick-start the party's poll campaign in Manipur and two other northeastern states next week, party leaders said on Saturday. Gandhi will visit the state on March 19, Congress Legislature Party leader Okram Ibobi and state Congress unit President Gaikhangam told reporters after returning from Delhi. Announcing Gandhi's programme, Gaikhangam said, "Our party President will arrive at Imphal from Arunachal Pradesh on March 19. He is likely to halt the night. He is scheduled to address a public meeting at Hafta Kangjeibung the next day after which he will leave for Tripura." Ibobi, Gaikhangam and some senior leaders of the party had air-dashed to Delhi to finalise the party candidates from the state's two Lok Sabha seats. Ibobi said that the names of the two candidates had been finalised. "However the high command shall make the announcement," he said. Elections to Manipur's two seats will be held in the first (April 11) and second (April 18) phases of the seven-stage Lok Sabha polls. --IANS il/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh's son-in-law, Puneet Gupta, has been charged with misusing his post and committing financial fraud of Rs 50 crore during his tenure as the superintendent of a state government hospital in Raipur. The police said they have been investigating the case but Gupta has not been arrested yet. According to the police, superintendent of DK Super-Specialty Hospital K.K. Sahare had filed a complaint at the Golebazar police station alleging irregularities to the tune of Rs 50 crore during Gupta's tenure. Acting on the complaint, police filed a case under Section 420 against Gupta. Senior Superintendent of Police Devendra Charan Patel told IANS on Saturday that Sahare has mentioned in his complaint that large-scale irregularities took place when Gupta was the superintendent of the hospital from December 2015 to October 2018. He alleged that Gupta misused his influence and bypassed rules to appoint doctors and other staff, and also misused government funds to buy such machines that had nothing to do with treatment of patients. Gupta was charged under sections 420 (cheating), 467 (forgery of valuable security), 468 (forgery for purpose of cheating) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code, Patel said, adding that further investigation was on. There was BJP's government in Chattisgarh from 2003 to 2018 with Raman Singh as the Chief Minister. After the BJP lost in the state assembly to the Congress in 2018, Gupta, Raman Singh's son-in-law, was transferred from his post in the DKS Hospital. --IANS hindi/vv/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Shanghai Cooperation Organization's (SCO) member states, including India and Pakistan, will participate in a joint anti-terrorism exercise this year, officials have said. The decision to hold the joint exercise -- "Sary-Arka-Antiterror 2019" -- was announced during the 34th meeting on Friday of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) council of the SCO in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Delegations from India, Kazakhstan, China, the Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and the RATS Executive Committee attended the meeting, Xinhua news agency reported. Chaired by Russia, the meeting also declared plans to hold the first stage of the joint border operation "Solidarity 2019-2021", the 7th meeting of the heads of the border services, and training workshops for identifying and preventing the use of Internet for terrorist, separatist and extremist purposes. THe RATS is a permanent part of the SCO that serves to promote cooperation of member states against the three evils of terrorism, separatism and extremism. It is headquartered in Tashkent. The next meeting of the Council of the RATS SCO is scheduled in Russia in September 2019. --IANS soni/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BJP MP from Tezpur constituency in Assam, Ram Prasad Sarmah, on Saturday announced his resignation from the saffron party ahead of the Lok Sabha polls citing "ill-treatment to old guards". He took to Facebook to express unhappiness over ill-treatment to the old guard in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). "I have left the BJP today. But I really feel deep pain in my heart for those old BJP workers who are neglected by the new intruders of the party. I was strongly raising my voice on their (old guard) behalf. But now there will be none to raise voice for them," Sarmah said in his Facebook post. An advocate by profession, Sarmah had been associated with the BJP for a long time. He was also a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and the Vishva Hindu Parishad. He was, however, entangled in several controversies since the last two years. After Sarmah started criticizing the BJP-led government in Assam for 'poor performance', his name cropped up in the multi-crore cash for jobs scam in Assam where one of his daughters was also found to be involved. The BJP Parliamentary Committee is scheduled to announce the list of candidates for Assam later in the evening. Sarmah was unlikely to get a ticket this time as the BJP is planning to field state Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma from the constituency, party sources said. --IANS ah/mag/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Twenty-eight-year-old Brenton Tarrant, the main suspect in the Christchurch terror attack that claimed 49 lives, was charged with murder at a court here on Saturday as New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern vowed to change the country's gun laws. Two Indians -- Ancy Ali (25) from Thrissur in Kerala and Faraj Ahsan (31) in Hyderabad -- are among the dead, reports said. The right-wing extremist appeared before the Christchurch district court in a white prison jumpsuit, handcuffed and barefoot. Flanked by two police officers, he smirked when media photographed him during the hearing and was seen making a white supremacist sign with his hands. The Australian stood silent during the brief hearing as he was charged with one count of murder. He was remanded in custody without plea and is due to appear in court on April 5. Two other people were also being investigated over the attacks. These three detained people were not on any New Zealand or Australian watchlists and were not known to the police. According to authorities, it remained unclear how many attackers were involved in the attack or if the same man attacked both mosques. More than 48 people were injured in shootings at Al Noor Mosque and the Linwood Avenue Masjid in the city on Friday. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said: "The man is currently facing one count of murder but there will be further charges". She visited a refugee and migrant centre in Christchurch as thousands of people across the country laid flowers at mosques and attended vigils. Speaking at a news conference, the Prime Minister said the suspect's car was full of weapons, suggesting "his intention to continue with his attack". He had obtained a gun licence in November 2017 that allowed him to buy the weapons used in the attack. He used five guns, including two semi-automatic weapons and two shotguns. "A lever-action firearm was also found," she said, later adding that the guns appeared to have been modified. "The mere fact... that this individual had acquired a gun licence and acquired weapons of that range, then obviously I think people will be seeking change, and I'm committed to that," she said. New Zealand's Attorney-General David Parker said the government would look into banning semi-automatic weapons. Ardern's Chief Press Secretary Andrew Campbell said that the Prime Minister's office had received an email with the "manifesto" from the shooter minutes before the attack. Campbell said the email was sent to a "generic" email account that was maintained by staff, and was not seen by the Ardern. The shooter's hate-filled 87-page manifesto contained anti-immigrant, anti-Muslim ideas and was also posted online before the attack. According to the BBC, 49 victims were identified including Daoud Nabi, 71, originally from Afghanistan. He moved his family to New Zealand in the 1980s to escape the Soviet invasion. Nabi was a community leader in New Zealand and a known supporter of other migrant groups. The dead included Pakistani-born Naeem Rashid and his son Talha. According to reports, three Bangladeshis, 4 Egyptians and a Syrian refugee were also among the victims. In the aftermath of the carnage, New Zealanders rallied to offer support and sympathies for the victims, leaving flowers and messages at sites close to the Al Noor Mosque. Vigils were held at mosques and community centres worldwide. Sydney's Opera House was lit up in New Zealand colours. A silver fern, the national symbol was projected in the middle of the building. The Eiffel Tower in Paris also went dark. The spire of New York's One World Trade Centre was lit in the colours of New Zealand's flag. Tarrant, who grew up in the Australian town of Grafton, had been living in the Dunedin, about 360 km south of Christchurch. The Australian police were investigating his connections around Grafton. Meanwhile, more details about the shooting suspect's travels throughout Europe emerged. Bulgarian Prosecutor General Sotir Tsatsarov said that the shooter visited Bulgaria between November 9 and 15 of last year. Tarrant arrived in Sofia on a flight from Dubai, rented a car and toured cities connected with Bulgarian history, Tsatsarov said. He added that the New Zealand attack suspect had a very good knowledge of the region's history. Tsatsarov also told journalists that after leaving Bulgaria, Tarrant went to Romania, traveling from there to Hungary by car. Turkish officials also told CNN that the suspect had spent an extended period of time in Turkey. In a chapter of Tarrant's hate-filled manifesto he called for the assassination of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, declaring "he must bleed his last". --IANS soni/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will begin her two-day visit to the Maldives from Sunday aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Saturday. During her visit, Sushma Swaraj will have bilateral meetings with her counterpart Abdulla Shahid and delegation level meetings with other Ministers including Mariya Ahmed Didi (Defence) and Ibrahim Ameer (Finance). "The Ministers will review the entire gamut of bilateral relations and discuss future programme of action," the Ministry said in a statement. It said that Sushma Swaraj's visit was at the invitation of Shahid. She will be accompanied by Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and other senior officials. Sushma Swaraj will call on the Speaker of Parliament Qasim Ibrahim upon her arrival in the island on Sunday, followed by ameeting with Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih the next day. "India attaches the highest importance to its relationship with the Maldives which is marked by trust, transparency, mutual understanding and sensitivity. This visit will further strengthen the close and friendly relations between India and Maldives," the statement added. --IANS rak/ksk/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) After her son Taimur Ali Khan was trolled on social media, actress Kareena Kapoor Khan gave a befitting reply to get back at the trollers. Social media users had trolled Taimur stating that he is dying of hunger and Kareena is not a good mother. The "Veere Di Wedding" actress was present on Arbaaz Khan's chat show "Pinch". The actor showed an online comment to Kareena which read: "Taimur bhuka marr raha hai (Taimur is dying of hunger)". Kareena said: "But woh bechara bhooka nai marra hai. In fact, I think kuch zaada hi kha raha hai aajkal. Mota lag raha hai (He is not starving. In fact, I think he is eating a little too much. Has started to look fat)." The actress, who is married to actor Saif Ali Khan, also expressed concern over the growing paparazzi culture in India. She wondered how people could be so interested in her two-year-old son Taimur's life. "Looking at the media, looking at those lights..wondering what media is doing. Sometimes they cross the line..especially when comes to Taimur. What he is eating ? where he is going ?...media is constantly following him. Once in a while it is fine, but everyday? "He is just a two-year-old kid. One should allow that person to live his life," she added. --IANS sim/dc/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on Saturday said he wanted to hand over the responsibility of Chhindwara, which he has been serving for decades, to his son Nakul Nath. Sharing the dais with his son, Nath told a gathering here: "You people will support me and Congress in the upcoming elections. I have already served you for 40 years. I have dedicated all my youth to the Chhindwara, now I want to hand over this responsibility to my son Nakul Nath." "Now, get your works done from him (Nakul). I will support you while remaining in the background, but you people are supposed to teach him. Give him a chance, so that we can do good development work in the state," said the Chief Minister. Chhindwara is considered a citadel of Congress. Kamal Nath will contest Assembly elections from this seat because it is mandatory to be elected as MLA within the six months of being appointed as the Chief Minister. Chhindwara is a parliamentary constituency also, so, Kamal Nath may field his son from here, sources said. --IANS hindi-rs/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The elite Tripura State Rifles (TSR), which had earlier performed election duties in more than 12 states, besides at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, would be deployed in some eastern states to facilitate peaceful Lok Sabha elections, a senior official said here on Saturday. "After the Lok Sabha elections in Tripura, two battalions of TSR would be deployed in some eastern states. The Election Commission and the Union Home Ministry would soon decide their deployment," a senior Home Department official told IANS. The official declining to be named, said that around 1,200 (two operational battalions) TSR troopers, led by senior officers, would be posted on election-related duties along with other Central Para-Military Forces (CPMF). He said the union home ministry has asked the Tripura government to send the TSR troopers for providing security during the electioneering as part of the central forces. Besides providing security during the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, the India Reserve (IR) battalions of TSR were earlier sent to Bihar, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, and to the northeastern states, to provide security during assembly and Lok Sabha elections. The TSR, trained for counter-insurgency operations, was raised in March 1984 to deal with terrorism. Seventy-five percent of its personnel are from Tripura while the remaining are from across the country. The TSR has 12 battalions, of which nine are IR battalions. The Union Home Ministry has recently sanctioned it two more IR battalions. "The IR battalions can be posted anywhere in the country as and when the union Home Ministry asked the concerned state government," a senior TSR officer said. Meanwhile, the CPMFs deployed for the Lok Sabha elections in Tripura started arriving in the state from Friday night. The Home Department official said that the state election authority had earlier sought 150 companies of CPMF, but the MHA refused to provide such a large number. "We expect that around 60 companies of additional CPMFs are likely to be posted in Tripura," he added. Of the state's two seats, West Tripura goes to the polls on April 11 and East Tripura on April 18. (Sujit Chakraborty can be contacted at sujit.c@ians.in) --IANS sc/vm (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ahead of the release of his film Kesari, actor Akshay Kumar reveals why he has an emotional attachment with the film. Youth should come and see the film to understand what sacrifice and bravery is all about, says Akshay Ahead of the release of his film Kesari, actor Akshay Kumar reveals why he has an emotional attachment with the film. Kesari was a very emotional journey for me because my father was also a soldier. He was in the army. And, Kesari too is a story about soldiers. If you Google it, you will realise that the Battle of Saragarhi is the second topmost battle in the world. We celebrate a film like 300, which is fictional, but this is a real story of 21 soldiers who held off 10,000 invaders knowing they would eventually die in the battle. The British celebrate it as Saragarhi Day but we dont, says Akshay. Directed by Anurag Singh, Kesari is about the Battle of Saragarhi in which an army of 21 Sikhs fought against 10,000 Afghans in 1897. There is a song in the film about the last 30 seconds he (Havildar Ishar Singh played by Akshay Kumar) had before dying. That is the time when everything that has happened in his life plays in front of him in those 30 seconds. That is truly a very emotional part of the film and the youth should come and see the film to understand what sacrifice and bravery is all about, adds the khiladi. Akshay then talks about his look in the film. I am wearing a pagdi that weighs a kilogram and wielding a four-five kg sword in the film. But, the Sikh warriors in those days wielded swords that were weighing even 20 kgs and fought with that. I guess it must be because they had asli (pure) ghee, smiles Akshay. At this moment, Karan Johar butts in saying, Looking at how fit he is... he must still be having desi ghee. He is so disciplined. He called me once for a meeting at six. I presumed that it was six in the evening but he had called me in the morning. Akshay immediately took a dig at Karans lifestyle. That is possibly because you went to a night school! Sanskriti Media US President Donald Trump has issued the first veto of his presidency, rejecting a legislation to overturn his declaration of a national emergency to fund a wall along the country's Mexican border, insisting that the situation on the southern frontier amounted to a threat to Americans' safety. "Today, I am vetoing this resolution," Trump the media on Friday in the Oval Office. "Congress has the freedom to pass this resolution, and I have the duty to veto it." The president called the resolution "dangerous", "reckless" and a "vote against reality", The New York Times reported. Trump was flanked by Vice President Mike Pence, Attorney General William P. Barr and Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen. The veto, which was expected, will send the legislation back to Congress, which almost certainly does not have enough votes for an override, which means Trump's declaration will remain in effect. Rebuffed by Congress in his demands for billions for the wall, Trump had declared a national emergency at the Mexican border last month, a move that would allow the President to circumvent the will of lawmakers and spend billions on border barriers, said The Washington post. Congress backed a resolution of disapproval, with the Senate voting 59-to-41 on Thursday for the measure. Twelve "rebel" Republicans defied Trump and joined the Democrats on the legislation. Democrats were quick to condemn the President's action on Friday. "It is no surprise that the president holds the rule of law and our Constitution in minimal regard," Senator Chuck Schumer of New York said in a statement. "There is no emergency; Congress has refused to fund his wall multiple times; Mexico won't pay for it; and a bipartisan majority in both chambers just voted to terminate his fake emergency." House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said: "The House and Senate resoundingly rejected the President's lawless power grab, yet the President has chosen to continue to defy the Constitution, the Congress and the will of the American people." Trump has long insisted that there was a security and humanitarian crisis at the border with Mexico, an assertion that was undercut by the President himself when he acknowledged that he could have waited to issue a declaration. But on Friday, he offered a flurry of statistics to support his contention, though many were unverified, The New York Times said. Even if Congress fails to override the veto, the emergency declaration is already drawing court challenges. Last month, a coalition of 20 states, including California and New York, sued over Trump's use of emergency powers, arguing that the President does not have the authority to divert funds for building a wall along the Mexican border because it is Congress that controls the spending. --IANS ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The UN Security Council has condemned "in the strongest terms" the terrorist attacks on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, which killed 49 people. The members of the Security Council expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and to the New Zealand government. They wished a speedy and full recovery to those injured, said the council in a press statement on Friday, Xinhua reported. The UNSC members underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice, and urged all states to cooperate actively with the government of New Zealand and all other relevant authorities in this regard. They reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security, and stressed the need for all states to combat by all means threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts. Gunmen opened fire in two separate mosques in Christchurch on Friday, killing 49 people and wounding 48 others. --IANS vin/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that Washington is still hopeful for continued talks with Pyongyang. "We are hopeful that we can continue to have conversation, negotiations," Pompeo told reporters at a press conference held at the State Department on Friday. He confirmed that there is ongoing negotiation between the two sides, but refused to give the details, Xinhua reported. Pompeo said that he and his counterpart of North Korea had "very professional conversations" and he has "every expectation that we'll be able to continue to do that." Pompeo's remarks came hours after Pyongyang blamed the US side for the failure of the recent summit between the North Korea's top leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump. After ending the summit in Hanoi on February 28 without reaching an agreement, Trump told a press conference that there was "a gap" in what the North Korea and the United States were pursuing. According to Trump, Kim demanded relief from sanctions against Pyongyang "in their entirety" in exchange for denuclearising a "large portion" of the North Korea's nuclear program, something the United States could not agree to. Dismissing Trump's claim, North Korea Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho has said that North Korea only proposed partial removal of the sanctions, wanting those impeding the livelihood of their people to be removed first. --IANS vin/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) What was initially thought to be a natural death has turned out to be a sensational murder case with wide political ramifications in view of next month's elections in Andhra Pradesh. The killing of YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader Y. S. Vivekananda Reddy at his residence in his home town of Pulivendula in Kadapa district on Friday has rattled the family when it was gearing up for April 11 elections to Andhra Pradesh Assembly and Lok Sabha. Uncle of YSRCP chief and Leader of Opposition Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy was the most unlikely victim of a ghastly crime. The former state minister and former MP was considered friendly across the political spectrum. That could be the reason for relatives initially stating that he died of cardiac arrest. However, with his body bearing multiple injury marks, it was treated as a case of unnatural death and within hours police concluded that he was murdered. Vivekananda Reddy was alone at his house after day-long campaigning for the party in Jammalamadugu constituency, of which he was the incharge. The 68-year-old is the third member of YSR family to die an unnatural death. His father Y.S. Raja Reddy was murdered in 1998 while elder brother and then Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy died in a helicopter crash in 2009. In a region once notorious for bloody fights among rival factions backed by political parties, Raja Reddy headed a strong group supported by the Congress party. A rival faction, headed by Parthasarathy Reddy, enjoyed the support of Telugu Desam Party (TDP). Raja Reddy was killed in a bomb attack near Pulivendula. R. Sudhakar Reddy, one of the convicts in Raja Reddy's murder, was released from prison three years ago. His possible role in Vivekanandaas murder is now under the police scanner. Out of Raja Reddy's five sons, only Rajasekhara Reddy and Vivekananda Reddy were in politics. While Rajasekhara Reddy went on to become one of the most popular leaders of the state, Vivekananda had low-profile. The two brothers always shared family strongholds of the Pulivendula Assembly seat or the Kadapa Lok Sabha seat depending on the role YSR chose for himself. After YSR's death, his son Jaganmohan Reddy raised the banner of revolt against the Congress after it rejected his claim to be YSR's successor. Jagan floated the YSR Congress while Vivekananda remained loyal to Congress, became a state minister and even contested bye-elections against Jagan's mother, Y.S. Vijayamma, from Pulivendula in 2011. He, however, tasted defeat and later joined YSR Congress. Now Vivekananda's murder on election eve has triggered a war of words between the TDP and the YSR Congress, the new identity of the YSR family. Jagan and his party see this as a part of TDP conspiracy to eliminate YSR family. While demanding a CBI probe, Jagan said the TDP leadership was in power or it was aware of the conspiracy whenever a death occurred in his family. "Two days before the helicopter crash in which my father died, Chandrababu Naidu told the assembly that you will not return," Jagan said. The YSRCP chief also sees the knife attack on him at Visakhapatnam Airport in October last year a part of TDP conspiracy to finish off him and his family. On Jagan's demand, the Centre handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) investigations into the attack on him at Visakhapatnam Airport. (Mohammed Shafeeq can be contacted at m.shafeeq@ians.in) --IANS ms/vm (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Even as the Pollachi sexual abuse-cum-blackmail case continues to be a burning issue, a taxi driver was arrested in Tamil Nadu's Nagapattinam on a similar charge, police said. Sundar, a taxi driver, befriended a girl working in a shop in Nagapattinam district, around 320 km from here. After some time, he took the girl to a hotel room in Karaikal in Puducherry and laced her cold drink with a sedative and sexually assaulted her, police said. As she was threatened by Sundar, the girl lodged a complaint and the police took him into custody. In Pollachi, also in Tamil Nadu, four youths -- Thirunavukkarasu, Sathish, Sabarirajan, Vasanthakumar -- have been accused of assaulting women and filming their act to blackmail them for money or for physical submission for over seven years. --IANS vj/mag/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Eleven people, including four women and five children, were killed and four others injured when an SUV skidded off a road and fell into a deep gorge in Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, police said. The SUV, carrying 15 passengers from Chaderkote to Rajgarh, rolled down into the over 500-feet-deep gorge when its driver lost control at Kunda nallah near Baglihar power house at 10.30 am, an official said. He said the locals along with the police immediately launched a rescue operation and pulled out bodies and injured from the scene. While six persons were found dead on-the-spot, five others succumbed on way to hospital, the official said, adding that three more critically injured persons, including driver of the vehicle, are being airlifted to Jammu for specialised treatment. Rajgarh is a far flung tehsil in Ramban district and is connected with the Jammu-Srinagar national highway through a link road which is reportedly damaged at various places. The allowed capacity for SUV operating in the hilly roads is only seven passengers and the driver of the vehicle has violated the directive, the official said. He identified some of the deceased as Romal Din (61), Mohammad Mubeen (23), Rubeena Begum (30), Urmilla Devi (32), Babli Devi (37), 13-year-old Imano Bano, nine-year-old Arjun, two-year-old Pari, and a three-month-old baby. Another child who was being airlifted to Government Medical College hospital Jammu succumbed at the helipad, the official said, adding the identity of the child and a woman is being ascertained. In separate cases, a cyclist was crushed to death by an unidentified vehicle in Poonch district, while nine passengers were injured in a collision between two buses along the Jammu-Pathankot highway in Samba district on Saturday. The cyclist, Prakash (48), a daily wager in Municipal Committee Poonch, was hit by an unidentified vehicle near Jhalas when he was on way to work Saturday morning, resulting in his on-the-spot death, officials said. They said a bus and a mini-bus collided near Thandi Khui in Vijaypur along the Jammu-Pathankot highway in Samba district around 9.30 am, resulting in injuries to nine passengers. Three of the critically injured were rushed to Government Medical College hospital Jammu for specialised treatment, the officials said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two Bangladeshis have been killed, five others injured and three were missing in New Zealand's worst terror attacks that claimed 49 lives, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam said here on Saturday. Speaking to reporters at an event at the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Bangladesh here, Alam revised the death toll, saying one of the victim identified as 'Mrs Samad' was found alive. In a statement published on the minister's Facebook page, the dead have been identified as Dr Abdus Samad, a professor of Lincoln University in New Zealand, and Hosne Ara Parvin. Bangladesh Honorary Consul in Auckland Shafiqur Rahman Bhuiyan on Friday said that three Bangladeshi nationals had been killed in the attack. They were identified as Dr Samad, his wife and another woman, Hosne Ara Parvin. At least 49 worshippers were killed and 20 others injured in attacks on the Al Noor Mosque in central Christchurch and the Linwood Mosque in the city's outer suburb on Friday. The gunman at one mosque was an Australian-born citizen and has been described as an extremist, right-wing, violent terrorist. "The death toll was based on initial reports from the expatriate community, but it had been revised down to two after one of the victim identified as 'Mrs Samad' was found alive," the state minister was quoted as saying by the bdnews24.com. Samad was born in Mymensingh and a faculty member of Bangladesh Agriculture University. Parvin and her husband Farid Uddin had been living in Christchurch for several decades, the report said. Alam said three Bangladesh nationals were missing since the attack. They have been identified as Mozammel Haque, Zakaria Bhuiyan and Shaon. Five injured, identified as Lipi, Muntasim, Sheikh Hassan Rubel, Shahjada Akhtar and Omar Farooq, have been hospitalised, where the condition of two is said to be critical, the minister said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two minor Indian-origin brothers were named by British police on Saturday as the victims of a fatal car crash in Wolverhampton involving speeding vehicles. The brothers, 10-year-old Sanjay and 23-month-old Pawanveer Singh, were in their BMW with their mother when they were struck by an Audi S3 on Thursday evening, West Midlands Police said in a statement. The driver of the Audi, believed to be racing with a Bentley, fled the scene of the accident. A 31-year-old man from the Bentley was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been released on bail pending further investigation. "I would appeal directly to the driver of the Audi to make contact with us. You may not be fully aware of the full tragic circumstances but you now need to speak to us," said Detective Sergeant Paul Hughes, from the West Midlands Police Serious Collision Investigation Unit. "I would also ask the public who have any information regarding the driver or recall seeing a blue Audi S3 and a white Bentley Continental convertible travelling along the Birmingham New Road to make contact," he said, adding that the force had already had a "huge response" from the public. In a statement, the family of the two boys paid tribute to the "beautiful children" and reiterated the police appeal for information leading to the on-the-run driver. "Our family are grieving over the tragic deaths of our two beautiful children, as well as dealing with the shock of the horrific crash. We appeal to the general public to come forward as witnesses in order help police find the perpetrator who fled from the scene and to bring him or her to justice," the statement read. "At this time we would appreciate some privacy and space to grieve over our precious loss. Your cooperation in this would be very much appreciated," it added. Witnesses near the crash site of New Birmingham Road area of Wolverhampton reported seeing the Audi and Bentley racing each other at top speed. Paramedics arrived within five minutes of the first emergency call and found members of the public desperately trying to save the two boys. Their mother, who has not been named, was taken to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham. The blue Audi could be seen with a crumpled front end at the scene of the crash. The BMW's off-side airbags had deployed and the car had come to rest in a row of metal pedestrian barriers at the roadside. The driver of the Bentley, which was undamaged, initially kept driving but reportedly returned to the scene later. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Nearly 900 stranded passengers, mostly residents of Ladakh, were Saturday airlifted from Jammu, Srinagar and Udhampur, an official said. "A total of 881 stranded passengers were airlifted by Indian Air Force in separate sorties," State Coordinator, Kargil Courier Service, Aamir Ali said. A total of 325 passengers were airlifted from Udhampur to Leh, 280 from Srinagar to Leh, 117 from Srinagar to Kargil, 59 from Kargil to Srinagar, 74 from Jammu to Kargil and26 from Kargil to Jammu, he added. The AN-32 Kargil courier service was introduced to provide an alternative to the residents of Ladakh which usually remains cut off from rest of the country due to the closure of 434-km Srinagar-Leh national highway during winter months owing to heavy snowfall. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A scuffle broke out Saturday between Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) workers and protesters belonging to various outfits over the party's alliance with the BJP for the upcoming general elections, police said. A few people escaped with minor injuries in the incident that happened in front of the AGP headquarters at Ambari, they said. Several people, who claimed were ordinary citizens, had gathered in front of the AGP office on Saturday. When a group of AGP workers came out of the party office to disperse them, a scuffle followed in which a few women protesters received minor injuries. Security forces, however, quickly brought the situation under control. Protests against the AGP entering into fresh alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has evoked widespread resentment among people, including a section of the AGP's leaders and members, who are opposed to the alliance. Party members had locked the AGP office in Jorhat on Friday as protests raged on in various districts across Assam. Former Chief Minister and AGP's founding president Prafulla Kumar Mahanta has opposed the alliance with the BJP over the citizenship bill issue. The decision to realign with the BJP was made by a handful of leaders of which he was not a part, Mahanta had claimed. Mahanta had also said that the saffron party intends to bring in the Citizenship Amendment Bill if they return to power after the polls. The AGP had snapped ties with the BJP in January this year with three of its ministers tendering their resignation when Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh made it clear that the citizenship bill will be passed in Lok Sabha. The Bill was, however, not tabled in the Rajya Sabha. A protester in front of the party headquarters said that people from all over the state belonging to several movement groups are opposing the AGP-BJP ties. "The AGP had earlier cleared their stand over the contentious Bill and snapped ties with BJP but the recent development is quite confusing," he said. Another woman protester alleged that the AGP leaders have betrayed the party by taking such a decision for personal gains. The AGP and BJP sealed their alliance again on March 12 with the three ministers from AGP - Atul Bora, Keshab Mahanta and Phanibhushan Choudhury - resuming their duties the next day. Lok Sabha polls in Assam will be held in three phases on April 11, 18 and 23 in 14 Parliamentary constituencies. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) UFO, Scrabble and Real Image are some of the digital service providers who beam the films to the theatres. One has often seen small and medium-sized producers complaining about the exorbitant cost of releasing their films. In a major development, Ronnie Screwvala has declared war on multiplexes, similar to how the South film industry had gone on strike last year over the same issue. Ronnie who founded UTV Group (now Walt Disney India) and now runs Ronnie Screwvala Productions (RSVP) that has recently produced films like Uri: The Surgical Strike and Sonchiriya. In a 153-page informative note addressed to PK Singh, Secretary of the Competition Commission Of India, Ronnie has asked them to intervene and stop major players like PVR Ltd, Inox Leisure Ltd, Cinepolis India Pvt. Ltd and Carnival Motion Pictures Pvt Ltd along with FICCI Multiplex Association of India from charging the Virtual Print Fee (VPF) which amounts to Rs 20,000 per screen when a producer or a film studio releases their film through the digital service provider. UFO, Scrabble and Real Image are some of the digital service providers who beam the films to the theatres. In his note, Ronnie has also mentioned that the multiplexes should take care of the exhibition and the producers should not be charged as they would recover their investments (multiplexes had to change their systems to accommodate the digital prints) in five years. Earlier there were film prints, which used to be shown at every screen. Now, it is a virtual print which is beamed via satellite to the screens that are showing the films. When the change occurred, every multiplex had to get their systems changed to accommodate the digital prints and spent between Rs 35-50 lakhs. Even though a sunset clause was discussed to stop charging the VPF from December 2017, the multiplexes continue to charge the same from the Indian producers but have stopped taking it from the Hollywood studios who are well aware of the norms. Ronnie, in fact, did not want to pay the VPF for Sonchiriya as well, but then paid it under protest because he did not want his film to suffer. It is only a matter of time before other big Bollywood producers join in and make life easier for Bollywood and other regional films like Marathi as well. It is a no brainer. They have to stop charging the VPF and decide on a new sunset period as it is pure extortion now, says a senior trade source. If the Competition Commission has its way, Bollywood and other regional industries too can breathe a sigh of relief as it would bring down the releasing costs of films by a huge margin. Sanskriti Media A Delhi court directed the Tihar jail authorities on Saturday to produce footage on allegations of torture levelled by Christian Michel, an alleged middleman arrested in the AgustaWestland choppers scam case. Special judge Arvind Kumar directed the jail authorities to bring the recording of February 13 to 17 of jail number 7, where Michel was kept last month. The court had earlier sought the footage of jail number 1 and after going through it, had noted that the premises were clean and that good facilities were provided to Michel. On March 14, the jail authorities had denied the allegations of torture levelled by Michel. Special public prosecutors D P Singh and N K Matta, appearing for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the (ED) respectively, had told the court that the accused was a foreigner and was brought to India through extradition. ED's counsel Samvedna Verma had told the court that "there is a responsibility of the country to ensure his security as per the treaty". On March 12, Michel had told the court that former CBI special director Rakesh Asthana had met him in Dubai and had threatened to "make his life hell inside jail" here if he did not toe the line of the agency. "Sometime ago, Rakesh Asthana had met me in Dubai and had threatened that my life would be made hell in the jail and that is what is going on. My next door inmate is (gangster) Chhota Rajan.... I do not understand what crime I have committed to be put along with terrorists and those who have killed several people," he had said. The jail authorities had said Michel was shifted to a high-risk prison considering threats to his life. The accused was arrested by the ED on December 22 last year after his extradition from Dubai. The court had previously lashed out at the jail authorities for failing to justify the shifting of Michel to a high-security cell in isolation, saying it would order an inquiry if it did not get a proper response. Michel is among the three alleged middlemen being probed in the Rs 3,600-crore VVIP choppers scam by the ED and the CBI. The other two are Guido Haschke and Carlo Gerosa. The Congress launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, alleging that his government's flagship health insurance scheme Ayushman Bharat is not for common man but actually a "lifesaver" for private insurance companies and hospitals. Asserting that the government's claims about the success of the scheme are "fake and false", senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said beneficiaries can avail treatment costing only up to Rs 50,000 under this scheme on the premium of Rs 1,100 paid by the government. It is "not Rs 5 lakh promised by Modi, he has exaggerated it 10 times," the Congress leader alleged. "The claim that 'Modicare' has provided each household insurance cover of Rs 5 lakh is a huge fraud," he claimed. He further said that 11 crore people across the country are already covered under respective health insurance schemes of various states and the Centre's Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY). RSBY was started by the Congress-led UPA government, he added. Ten crore people to be benefited under Ayushman Bharat are not over and above the 11 crore beneficiaries who are already availing benefits, he said, adding "Modi is trying to take credit for various health schemes through Ayushman Bharat." Emphasising that the Ayushman Bharat Yojana or Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), which is also described as "Modicare", is conceptually wrong, the Congress leader said, "It doesn't cover diabetes and high blood pressure, the two common ailments in India." "Patients will not have access to adequate healthcare under PMJAY because it excludes outpatient treatment, which 87 per cent of ailing persons undergo. Outpatient treatment is a serious financial burden that accounted for 63 per cent of the Rs 4,955 spent by households out of their pockets on health in 2014," he said. The country does not need health insurance which benefits private players but health assurance which helps common man, which is possible through Right to Health as promised by Congress chief Rahul Gandhi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Senior BJP leader Bhuwan Chandra Khanduri's son Manish Khanduri joined the on Saturday at a rally in the presence of party president Welcoming him into the party fold, Gandhi said him joining the will strengthen the party. Speculation is rife that the might field Manish Khanduri from Pauri, a seat held by his father. Former Uttarakhand chief minister BC Khanduri was removed last year as chairman of the parliamentary standing committee on defence. The Congress had latched on to the removal of the former army general from the committee to attack the BJP. In a precondition of sorts, Congress legislators from Bangalore North Lok Sabha seat Saturday said Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy will have to address their constituency related issues, a day after announcing they will work together for JD(S) patriarch H D Deve Gowda's victory, if he contests from the constituency. Congress leaders from Bangalore North met legislature party leader and former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and requested his mediation. "Seven of us- five Congress and two from JD(S) are together. Let there be no doubt about victory of our (coalition) candidate. We will all work together, but personally there are some issues related to our constituency,"Yeshwanthpura MLA S T Somashekar said. Speaking to reporters after meeting with CLP leader Siddarmaiah, he said, "We have asked for his mediation in solving those issues." If we are convinced that our issues will be solved, we have assured him (Siddaramaiah) that we will abide by AICC's decision hundred per cent," he said, while noting that Congress and JD(S) have bitterly fought against each other in the past. Congress legislators from Bangalore North after a joint meeting with two JD(S) MLAs from the constituency on Friday had said they will work for the victory of Gowda, if he contests as the regional party's candidate. According to the seat sharing arrangement reached by coalition partners, Bangalore North that is currently represented by Union Minister Sadanada Gowda of BJP, has gone to JD(S). Out of eight assembly constituencies in Bangalore North five are with Congress, two with JD(S) and one with BJP. Somashekar said he along with other Congress MLAs will meet Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara, KPCC president Dinesh Gundu Rao in this regard. "If our issues are solved, we will hundred per cent work together, we have brought to our leadership's notice," he said, adding that a meeting involving Kumaraswamy, Deve Gowda along with CLP leader Siddaramaiah was crucial for this. Transfer of Congress' votes to JD(S) is said to be key for the regional party's victory in the constituency that isdominated by Vokkaligas, migrant population, as also minorities. Speculation is rife that Deve Gowda, who has handed over his constituency, Hassan, to grandson Prajwal Revanna will be contesting from either Bangalore North or Tumkur constituency. However, Gowda is yet to decide about the constituency that he will be contesting from. Gowda had earlier indicated that he may not contest polls, citing age as the reason. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Rashtriya Loktantrik Party, formed ahead of the 2018 assembly elections in Rajasthan, is planning to contest all Lok Sabha seats in the state. Headed by Jat leader Hanuman Beniwal, the party that won three seats in the assembly elections last year is having discussions with other parties over an alliance for the Lok Sabha elections. "The RLP is trying to enter into an alliance with other parties and we will field candidates for all 25 Lok Sabha seats," Beniwal told reporters on Saturday. He said discussions are on with Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Bharatiya Tribal Party (BTP), Communist Party of India (CPI) and other parties. The RLP contested assembly elections without any alliance and had fielded candidates from over 50 seats. "We not only won three seats, but got considerable votes and impacted the result on nearly two dozen seats," Beniwal, the former BJP leader, said. In 2014, the BJP swept the polls in Rajasthan winning all 25 parliamentary seats. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India's general election fever rolled into the UK on Saturday, with the overseas units of rivals BJP and Congress organising separate car rallies to garner support from the sizeable Indian diaspora in the country. The Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP), the BJP's overseas unit, flagged off its campaign with European racing champion Advait Deodhar being part of the rally, in which hundreds of cars took to the streets of London, Birmingham, Leicester, Manchester, Edinburgh and Newcastle. The rival Congress' overseas unit, Indian Overseas Congress (IOC) UK, launched its rally from west London to cover Birmingham, Coventry and Slough before assembling back in south-west London. OFBJP President Kuldeep Shekhawat said: "There are around 10,000 Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in the UK who are actively or passively participating in this world's biggest dance of democracy, the Indian general election 2019". "The central message is consistent worldwide to support 'Team Modi' for a clean sweep in the elections. This rally marks the first major Team UK effort to spread the message among the Indian diaspora and get them involved in the campaign," he said. The OFBJP rally, involving NAMO T-shirts and BJP flags, was coordinated by several local party units. The London rally drove past the iconic monuments like Houses of Parliament and the Tower Bridge as well as heavily Indian-populated areas of Wembley and Southall before gathering for an event expected to be attended by local British MPs such as Conservative Party MP Bob Blackman and Labour Party MP Seema Malhotra. The IOC UK rally, headed by President Kamalpreet Singh Dhaliwal, involved en-route plans for a large gathering in Birmingham and then at the final meeting point in west London. The group had hoped to get Congress Party campaign leader Priyanka Gandhi to address the event, but said the plans had to be changed once the Election Commission of India announced the election dates last week. "The theme of our campaign is to bring back Indian glory by bringing back the Congress party and to enthuse the Indian diaspora in the UK to influence their family members with this message to save Indian democracy," said IOC UK spokesperson Sudhakar Goud. The rallies, which attracted hundreds of local volunteers and supporters from both the parties, are set to give way to other diaspora events as the election campaign builds up towards the first phase of polling on April 11. As part of the so-called "NRI4NaMo" initiative around the world, triggered by the head of the party's foreign policy wing Vijay Chauthaiwale, OFBJP UK has plans for a so-called "Run For Modi" and a Kavi Sammelan in early April besides ongoing social media drives. IOC UK said its social media focus will be on "countering fake being circulated by Modi social media team" and the organisation also plans a series of gatherings, with hundreds of its volunteers set to travel to India to join the grassroots campaign. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, who was among the leaders that spearheaded the BJP's poll campaign since 1994 in the state, is likely to stay away from the heat and dust of electioneering for Lok Sabha polls this time. Parrikar's contribution to the party's victory in Lok Sabha and assembly elections over the years is even recognised by rivals who claim his absence will impact BJP's performance in the state, but party leaders have dismissed such doubts saying they are working under his guidance. One of the first BJP MLAs from the state, Parrikar went on to become the chief minister four times since 2000. Ahead of the 2017 assembly polls, Parrikar, who was then the defence minister, had criss-crossed the entire state, promising continuation of the developmental works the BJP government initiated and sought a clear mandate, stressing political stability was essential to steer the state to progress. The 63-year-old IIT graduate-turned-politician, who is known for his simplicity and easy demeanour, quit as defence minister that year to head a BJP-led coalition government in the state. However, the chief minister, who is suffering from a pancreatic ailment since last one year, has restricted his public appearances. The BJP leader, who is largely confined to his home, is unlikely to actively campaign for the party. During a meeting here last month which was addressed by BJP president Amit Shah, Parrikar had promised he would address public meetings during the Lok Sabha elections. "Yes, it will be first time that Parrikar may not be physically present for campaigning but he is monitoring all election matters from home," said BJP MLA and Deputy Speaker of Assembly Michael Lobo. He said there is a dedicated team of BJP workers who are working overtime to ensure the party wins under the guidance of Parrikar. Lobo said Parrikar's absence from active campaigning will not have any adverse impact on the BJP's prospects. "There won't be any impact on the polls because Parrikar is monitoring the campaigning. Parrikar is guiding the party from his residence. "Every decision that the party is taking, including finalisation of candidates for by-elections, is with the blessings of Parrikar," he said. However, Parrikar's political opponent, Subhash Velingkar, who floated the Goa Suraksha Manch after being sacked from the RSS in 2016, said things are not going to be easy for the BJP. "It will not be easy for the BJP to have elections without Parrikar," he said, recalling how the chief minister has been a "star campaigner" of his party in elections in the last over two decades. "Parrikar was a star campaigner and he used to visit all constituencies," he said. Velingkar said the BJP does not have "second-rung" leaders in Goa. He claimed Parrikar's absence from campaigning will have a big impact on the BJP's poll prospects. However, BJP's South Goa Member of Parliament Narendra Sawaikar rejected any such possibility. "People have been saying they will vote for the BJP because of Goa's development under the party," he said. "People also know Parrikar is the driving force (behind the BJP and the government). We feel he should have been there (for campaigning), but definitely his guidance will be there," he added. A leader who enjoys acceptance from all sections of the BJP and beyond, Parrikar has played key role in making the party a force to reckon with in Goa, which remained for long a Congress bastion, with regional outfits having pockets of influence. Parrikar is known for his connect with party workers. Many recall how he would ride his scooter even after becoming the chief minister and is easily accessible. He had once mentioned how he went to a party worker's house for tea at his invitation but the next day the worker asked him why he did not bring his pilot vehicles and escorts along with me. "I asked him if my coming wasn't enough, to which he replied that even though I had come, nobody in his village knew that the CM had visited his house," Parrikar said, evoking laughter from audience. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh said Saturday he did not trust Pakistan's intent behind the opening of the Kartarpur corridor, saying their agenda was "nefarious and political" and aimed at "exploiting" the sentiments of the Sikhs. "Pakistan is doing it with a different intent, which is not at all aimed at promoting peace," Singh said at a press conference here to mark two years of his government. "India's agenda is religious, but theirs is totally disruptive." The Congress leader said the number of devotees proposed by Islamabad to be allowed to pass the corridor was not at all sufficient and he wanted at least 15,000 pilgrims to be permitted to visit the historic gurdwara everyday. The chief minister reiterated his demand for an open visit at the Kartarpur gurdwara, questioning the rationale behind having a corridor if the need for passport and visa was still there. "Some identification was, of course, needed, but there was no need for passport etc," he said, adding that such requirement would deprive poor people. India and Pakistan had last year agreed to open up a special border crossing linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in the neighbouring country's Kartarpur -- the final resting place of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak Dev -- to Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district. The two countries seek to open the corridor in November on the occasion of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak. Singh said he was all for the corridor, which was a matter of devotion for the Sikhs, but there was need to exercise caution. He pointed out to the number of ISI-backed terror modules busted in Punjab in recent months. "While Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan talks of peace, their Army Chief, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, continues to promote his evil designs." Asked if the airstrike by the Indian Air Force in Pakistan's Balakot would benefit the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the Lok Sabha election, Singh said any government of the day, including the Congress, would have retaliated after the Pulwama attack. The chief minister also lashed out at the BJP for politicisation of the armed forces. "The Congress has never politicised the 1965 or the 1971 wars. We have always put the nation above political interests," he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The CBI has registered a case of alleged encroachment of defence land worth crores of rupees by hotel owners in the sensitive Badami Bagh cantonment area in Srinagar, officials said on Saturday. The agency has booked then Chief Executive Officers of the Cantonment Ajay Kumar Choudhary and B K Kaul, Junior Engineer Tariq Ahmad Khanday, Tramboo Joinery Mills owner Muzaffar Rashid Wani, owner of an under construction hotel Tariq Ahmad Wani and owner of Soloman Heights hotel Muneer Ahmad Bakshi, they said. The agency had registered a preliminary inquiry in the case on November 27, 2018 which revealed that officials of the cantonment board allegedly facilitated the hotel and mill owners in grabbing defence land. The inquiry established that Hotel Solomon Heights, under-construction hotel of Tariq Ahmad Wani and Tramboo Joinery Mills were standing on defence land, the officials said. Their lease deed had expired and further lease deed was executed without permission of defence authorities, which was illegal and unauthorised, the officials said. "The concerned JE and CEOs submitted false report being fully aware about the status of land and facilitated the accused private persons to obtain permission from the board on the defence land by putting the status of land as private in Tramboo Joinery Mills," the CBI alleged. The FIR accused Kaul (now retired), Chaudhary and Khandey of entering into criminal conspiracy to facilitate illegal occupants, causing huge loss to the defence ministry. It is alleged that land measuring 11 kanals and nine marla was given on a 20-year lease by the defence authority to Indraj Sharma from 1954 to 1974. Sharma allegedly leased out the land to one Abdul Majid Bakshi in 1960 on which Hotel Solomon Heights was constructed. "The value of the said land is in crores as it is on the highway at Sonwar area in Srinagar which is very posh and a secure location in Srinagar. It is presently occupied by Muneer Ahmad Bakshi, son of A M Bakshi, and was constructed on defence land and its lease already stands expired," the FIR alleged. After the expiry of the lease deed, nothing was paid to the defence authority by the illegal occupants and the officials concerned, including Khanday, did not take suitable action against the owner, it alleged. The lease was also not extended by the officials, causing a huge loss to the defence ministry, it said. In the case of the under construction hotel, the agency alleged that Durganag Trust president P N Takoo illegally leased out the land to Tariq Ahmad Wani. The preliminary inquiry found that the lease of the Trust through Takoo had already expired, ruling out any question of further lease to Wani, but the officials did not stop fresh construction, facilitating the illegal occupation. The agency said Tramboo Joinery Mills is also on the land of Durganag Trust for which lease was allegedly expired, but the trust executed a lease deed to Wani in 2005. The FIR alleged that Wani was not an authorised occupant for obtaining any kind of permission for repair, but then CEO of the Cantonment Board B K Kaul granted the same to him. A show cause notice was later issued by Kaul for alleged violation of permission. Two years later, Wani's request for grant of license was rejected by then CEO Harendra Singh. In the mean time, Ajay Chaudhary joined as next CEO. A fresh request for grant of license concealing the fact that the mill was illegal construction was put up before it, the FIR alleged. The permission was granted subject to conditions laid down by the board in 2009, it said. "Khanday and Chaudhary abused their official position in connivance with Muzaffar Rashid Wani through his attorney holder Habibullah Mir and certified that the land in question was a private land," it alleged. The CBI alleged that Khanday, Kaul and Chaudhary conspired with Wani and facilitated new illegal construction on the defence land. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) will be soon issuing show cause notices to 29 firms and five traders who were found manufacturing and selling orthopedic implants without licences in recent raids. According to a CDSCO official, these plants were found violating the norms under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and Rules, 2018 in the selling and manufacturing of orthopedic implants. "We are in the process of issuing show cause notices to these firms and traders and working on the details of the firms," the official said Saturday. On March 11, inspectors at CDSCO conducted raids at 45 medical devices plants in four states, and found 29 of them and five traders manufacturing or selling orthopedic implants without licence or approval. Further many of the units were using substandard material in unclean conditions, officials said. Twenty-five firms were raided in the national capital, while searches were carried out in eight such facilities in Maharashtra, a senior official said, adding six firms each in Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh were also raided in a joint operation with officials of the states concerned. "In the last two months, the CDSCO's intelligence cell gathered information from across the country regarding manufacture of various orthopedic implants without licences. "It received information that a large number of unlicensed manufacturing activities were being carried out in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra. Based on this information, the raids were carried out," the official said. The intelligence cell at CDSCO was constituted in March, 2018. During raids, the officials found that the manufacturers did not hold valid licences and the devices were being made using substandard material in unclean conditions. It was also found that the firms did not have quality management systems in place as is required under the Medical Devices Rules. Neither did the facilities conduct laboratory tests. Also they were just assembling the products and terming it as being manufactured by them, the official added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Among the missing nine people of Indian origin are Ahmed Jahangir, who hails from Hyderabad and who has family in the city. Nine people from India or of Indian origin have been missing after Fridays shooting at two mosques in Christchurch in which 49 people have died, the Indian envoy in New Zealand said. (Photo: AP) New Delhi/Christchurch: Nine people from India or of Indian origin have been missing after Fridays shooting at two mosques in Christchurch in which 49 people have died, the Indian envoy in New Zealand said. Read: Darkest day: 49 dead in NZ mosque shootings, gunman an Australian Two Indians have died in the attacks, a third is battling for his life, Asaduddin Owaisi, the leader of AIMIM (All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen Party) said. During the Friday prayers, a gunman live-streamed footage of him going room-to-room, victim to victim, shooting the wounded from close range as they struggled to crawl away. He has been identified as an Australian extremist, the gunman had also published a manifesto, in which he referred to immigrants as invaders. Read: Brenton Tarrant: A regular white man who wanted to rid Europe of immigrants "As per updates received from multiple sources there are 9 missing persons of Indian nationality/ origin. Official confirmation still awaited. Huge crime against humanity. Our prayers with their families," High Commissioner Sanjiv Kohli tweeted. As per updates received from multiple sources there are 9 missing persons of indian nationality/ origin. Official confirmation still awaited. Huge crime against humanity. Our prayers with their families sanjiv kohli (@kohli_sanjiv) March 15, 2019 The High Commission has also tweeted, offering help. Owaisi has sought help from foreign minister Sushma Swaraj for the brother of one of the victims. The family is from Hyderabad. Indian shot in New Zealand mosque attack, his Hyderabad family seeks urgent visa https://t.co/2Q8EYFnZ6F Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) March 15, 2019 Owaisi tweeted: "A video from #ChristChurch shows one Ahmed Jehangir who was shot. His brother Iqbal Jehangir is a resident of Hyderabad & would like to go to NZ for Ahmed's family." A video from #ChristChurch shows one Ahmed Jehangir who was shot. His brother Iqbal Jehangir is a resident of Hyderabad & would like to go to NZ for Ahmeds family. I request @KTRTRS @TelanganaCMO @MEAIndia @SushmaSwaraj to make necessary arrangements for the Khursheed family Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) March 15, 2019 In another tweet, Owaisi said: "His brother is serious and his family has little support. I'm only requesting the immediate support of your good offices in expediting his visa process. He'll make all arrangements to travel to NZ by himself." These are Mr. Khursheeds passport details. His brother is serious & his family has little support. Im only requesting the immediate support of your good offices in expediting his visa process. Hell make all arrangements to travel to NZ by himself pic.twitter.com/vXMbnZeJ2X Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) March 15, 2019 UPDATE: Id like to thank @SushmaSwaraj for personally updating me about MEAs efforts in assisting Ahmeds & Ahsans families reach NZ in time We are in touch with @MEAIndiaMEA & they have assured us that theyre making all efforts to get the visa process expedited https://t.co/pJ2O8a4BgL Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) March 15, 2019 Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has condemned the shooting, described as the countrys worst ever mass shooting, as a terrorist attack. PM @narendramodi strongly condemns the heinous terrorist attack at the places of worship in #Christchurch today https://t.co/6IviTxd2Pk pic.twitter.com/xCxNUpNNEL Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) March 15, 2019 In the evening, the foreign ministry issued a statement that read, "The Prime Minister stressed India's strong condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, and of all those who support such acts of violence. He stressed that hatred and violence have no place in diverse and democratic societies". Nana Patole, who is the Congress' candidate from Nagpur Lok Sabha seat currently held by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Saturday said in a democracy, people are powerful and not leaders. Addressing a press conference here, Patole claimed Gadkari's "larger than life" personality would have no impact on the polls. Attacking Gadkari, Patole demanded a "white paper" on budget money spent on Nagpur and how much debt had been laden on residents of the city in the name of development. "In a democracy, a leader is not powerful but it is the public. Hence, I don't see anyone more powerful than people. This point (Gadkari's image) won't have much impact," he said, adding that Gadkari was his "elder brother". "The way Nagpur's development is being projected is a farce and is full of scams. The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) is not an autonomous institution anymore. Major NMC properties worth several crore rupees have been handed over to the Nagpur metro project," he alleged. He claimed the concept and development of the Multi-Modal Airport and Cargo Hub, Nagpur (popularly called MIHAN) was started by former Congress MP Vilas Muttemwar. Muttemwar had lost the 2014 Lok Sabha polls to Gadkari. Attacking Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Gadkari, both of whom hail from Nagpur, Patole said the two kept dishing out different figures like "Rs 80,000 crore and Rs 60,000 crore" spent on development works in the city. "You should give account of how much and from where Rs 80,000 crore or Rs 60,000 crore has been brought and spent. How do you plan to return this money," he questioned. He said the BJP had promised an All India Institute of Medical Sciences facility in Nagpur but work on it had not yet started. He attacked the Centre over what he claimed was seeking of votes in the name of Pulwama attack martyrs and the air strike that followed. "I feel that Pakistan and China want Narendra Modi to come back as Prime Minister. China is being favoured by the government and it is dumping its goods in India. But when it comes to declaring Masood Azhar as a global terrorist, China does not support India," he claimed. He said Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will visit Nagpur between April 4-6 to campaign. Patole had won the 2014 Lok Sabha polls on a BJP ticket from Bhandara-Gondiya before quitting the party and Parliament in 2017 and joining the Congress. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) JD(S) leader and Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy Saturday termed party general secretary Danish Ali joining Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party, as a "political arrangement" between the two parties. Ali joined the BSP on Saturday in the presence of the party's national general secretary Satish Mishra in Lucknow. According to JD(S) sources, Ali is likely to contest Lok Sabha polls from Amroha in Uttar Pradesh on a BSP ticket as JD(S) has no presence there, his home state. "Danish Ali, the JDS General Secretary, has joined BSP in consent with me and our national president Sri HD Devegowda in a purely political arrangement between the two parties. It is a thoughtful political decision taken by #JDS and BSP to win more seats in the Lok Sabha elections," Kumaraswamy tweeted. Ali as JD(S)' general secretary on Wednesday had successfully hammered out a seat sharing deal with Congress President Rahul Gandhi, according to which Congress will contest 20 seats and JD(S) eight, in Karnataka. BSP had fielded candidates in 18 constituencies in the May 2018 assembly polls in Karnataka as per the alliance arrangement reached with JD(S), which contested in 200 seats and won 37. N Mahesh is BSP's lone MLA in Karnataka, who became primary and secondary education minister in the Kumaraswamy cabinet, before he quit in October last year. BSP has decided to go it alone during Lok Sabha polls in Karnataka, and plans to contest for all the 28 seats in the state. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ambulance staff take a man from outside a mosque in central Christchurch, New Zealand, Friday, March 15, 2019. Photo: AP A right-wing extremist who filmed himself on a shooting rampage that left 49 mosque-goers dead flashed a white power gesture as he appeared in a New Zealand court Saturday charged with murder. Australian-born 28-year-old Brenton Tarrant stood in the dock wearing handcuffs and a white prison smock, as the judge read a single murder charge against him. A raft of further charges are expected. The former fitness instructor and self-professed fascist occasionally turned to look at media present in court during the brief hearing that the public were excluded from for security reasons. Flanked by armed police he made an upside-down "okay" signal, a symbol used by white power groups across the globe. He did not request bail and was taken into custody until his next court appearance which is scheduled for April 5. A short distance from the court, 39 people were being treated in hospital for gunshot wounds and other injuries inflicted in the massacre. The wounded included a two-year-old boy and a four-year-old girl, who was in critical condition. Doctors at Christchurch hospital said they worked through the night in 12 operating theatres to treat the survivors. The attack on the Al Noor and Linwood mosques has been labelled terrorism by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and is thought to be the deadliest attack directed against Muslims in the West in modern times. Outside the court, the son of 71-year-old Afghan victim Daoud Nabi demanded justice for his late father, who believed New Zealand to be a "slice of paradise." "It's outrageous" he said. "It's beyond imagination." Ardern said the victims came from across the Muslim world, with Turkey, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Malaysia among the countries rendering consular assistance. One Saudi citizen and two Jordanians were among the dead, while five Pakistani citizens were missing. Ardern, wearing a black headscarf, met with survivors and victims' families Saturday at a college which has become an information centre for those affected by the tragedy. Sahra Ahmed, a New Zealander of Somali origin, said she was touched by the PM's gesture. "It means a lot. It is a signal to say -- I am with you," she told AFP. The attack has prompted an outpouring of grief and deep shock in this usually peaceful and hospitable country, which prides itself on welcoming refugees fleeing violence or persecution. The last comparable mass shooting in New Zealand was almost three decades ago, and the annual murder rate is usually around 50 people for the entire country. Although shops were shuttered and many decided to stay at home Saturday, bouquets of flowers piled up at a makeshift memorial near the Al Noor mosque, many accompanied with handwritten letters laden with sadness and disbelief. "I am so sorry that you were not safe here. Our hearts are breaking for your loss," read one of the notes marked with a string of x-kisses. Ardern said the shooter was "in possession of a gun licence" obtained in November 2017, and he started legally purchasing the weapons the following month. Two semi-automatic weapons, reportedly AR-15s, two shotguns and a lever-action gun were used in the attacks. Ardern said some of the guns had been modified to make them deadlier. "I can tell you one thing right now -- our gun laws will change," she said. The suspect documented his radicalisation and two years of preparations in a lengthy, meandering and conspiracy filled far-right "manifesto". He live-streamed footage of himself going room-to-room, victim to victim, shooting the wounded from close range as they struggled to crawl away in the main Christchurch mosque. Thirty-six minutes after the police received the first call, Tarrant was in custody. Commissioner Mike Bush hailed the "absolute bravery" of both police and members of the public "who put themselves in harm's way" to apprehend the suspect. "Their intervention may very likely have saved further lives." Some of the officers involved in the operation were rural police officers who Ardern said "put New Zealand first" Two other people remain in custody, although their link to the attack is not clear. One man, 18-year-old Daniel Burrough, has been charged with incitement. Revulsion at the attack, and tributes to the victims, poured in from around the world, including from Pope Francis and Britain's Queen Elizabeth II. US President Donald Trump condemned the "horrible massacre" in which "innocent people have so senselessly died", but denied that the problem of right-wing extremism was widespread. Australian police said they had visited Tarrant's childhood home in the town of Grafton, north of Sydney, and spoken to family members as part of their investigation. The attack has prompted searching questions about whether right-wing extremism has been treated with enough seriousness by Western governments. Ali Soufan, a former high-ranking FBI counter-terrorism agent, warned the West was "in the midst of a surge of right-wing terrorism that has been metastasising in plain sight while generating only a muted response from domestic counter-terrorism authorities." Ardern admitted "the individual charged with murder had not come to the attention of the intelligence community, nor the police, for extremism." "I have asked our agencies this morning to work swiftly on assessing whether there was any activity on social media or otherwise, that should have triggered a response." Ardern said these issues would be addressed at a cabinet meeting on Monday. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A right-wing extremist flashed a white power gesture as he faced the first of many murder charges in a New Zealand court Saturday, while a shellshocked community dug graves for 49 mosque-goers he stands accused of slaying. Australia-born, 28-year-old Brenton Tarrant stood largely impassive in the dock wearing handcuffs and a white prison smock, as the judge read the first of what are expected to be a host of murder charges that could mean he dies in jail. Flanked by armed police, the former personal fitness trainer gestured an upside-down "okay", a symbol used by white power groups worldwide. He did not request bail and was taken into custody until his next court appearance which was scheduled for April 5. Outside the courtroom, Christchurch residents struggled to deal with the aftermath of what is thought to be the worst act of terror against Muslims in the West. At an old gravesite, excavators were called in to remove the vast amount of earth needed to bury the dead, although police have not yet been able to release the bodies to anxious families. At the nearby hospital, doctors worked round the clock to treat 39 people for gunshot wounds and other injuries sustained in the attacks. The wounded included a two-year-old boy and a four-year-old girl, who was in critical condition. The attack on the Al Noor and Linwood mosques has prompted an outpouring of grief and deep shock in this usually peaceful country, which prides itself on welcoming refugees fleeing violence or persecution. Throughout the day people laid flowers at a makeshift memorial just beyond the police cordon around the Al Noor mosque, where most of the victims died. Many were accompanied with handwritten letters laden with sadness and disbelief, from residents of what one local driver called the "city of sorrow". "I am so sorry that you were not safe here. Our hearts are breaking for your loss," read one of the notes marked with a string of x-kisses. When the police tape was lifted late Saturday, bystanders spontaneously joined police in moving the stack of bouquets further toward the mosque. An imam who was leading prayers at the Linwood mosque at the time of the attack said the Muslim community would not be shaken by the massacre. "We still love this country," said Ibrahim Abdul Halim, vowing that extremists would "never ever touch our confidence". Across New Zealand, Kiwis responded with interfaith solidarity -- crowdfunding millions of dollars, donating halal food and even offering to accompany local Muslims now scared to walk the streets. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern arrived in the city and, wearing a black headscarf, met with survivors and victims' families. Ardern said the victims came from across the Muslim world, with Turkey, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Malaysia among the countries rendering consular assistance. At least one Saudi citizen and two Jordanians were among the dead, while five Pakistani citizens were missing. Sahra Ahmed, a New Zealander of Somali origin, said she was touched by the PM's gesture. "It means a lot. It is a signal to say -- I am with you," she told AFP. Police are now trying to piece together answers to the difficult questions of why and how this happened. They also want to know how it was possible for the perpetrator to remain undetected by the intelligence services despite his extremist views. Ardern said the shooter was "in possession of a gun licence" obtained in November 2017, and he started legally purchasing two semi-automatic weapons, reportedly AR-15s, two shotguns and a lever-action gun the following month. Ardern said some of the guns had been modified to make them deadlier. "I can tell you one thing right now -- our gun laws will change," she said. The suspect documented his radicalisation and two years of preparations in a lengthy, meandering and conspiracy filled far-right "manifesto". He live-streamed footage of himself going room-to-room, victim to victim, shooting the wounded from close range as they struggled to crawl away in the main Christchurch mosque. Thirty-six minutes after the police received the first call, Tarrant was in custody. Commissioner Mike Bush hailed the "absolute bravery" of both police and members of the public "who put themselves in harm's way" to apprehend the suspect. "Their intervention may very likely have saved further lives." Some of the officers involved in the operation were rural police officers who Ardern said "put New Zealand first". Two other people remain in custody, although their link to the attack is not clear. One man, 18-year-old Daniel Burrough, has been charged with incitement. Revulsion at the attack, and tributes to the victims poured in from around the world, including from Pope Francis and Britain's Queen Elizabeth II. US President Donald Trump condemned the "horrible massacre" in which "innocent people have so senselessly died", but denied that the problem of right-wing extremism was widespread. Australian police said they had visited Tarrant's childhood home in the town of Grafton, north of Sydney, and spoken to family members as part of their investigation. The attack has prompted searching questions about whether right-wing extremism has been treated with enough seriousness by Western governments. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, the Congress in Telangana is facing a crisis of sorts with as many as six MLAs announcing their decision to leave the party to join the ruling TRS. Congress, which was part of a front comprising the TDP CPI and Telananga Jana Samithi, had won just 19 seats in the elections to the 119 member assembly in December last year. However, two MLAs -- Atram Sakku and Rega Kantha Rao -- quit the party and announced their decision to join the TRS in the first week of this month. This was followed by two more party MLAs leaving the party. This came as a major setback to the Congress in the election scheduled for March 12 to fill five vacancies in the Legislative Council (in MLAs quota). Congress had fielded one candidate in the Council election. The TRS had put up four nominees of its own and left one seat to its ally AIMIM of Asaduddin Owaisi in the poll. Crying foul, state Congress president N Uttam Kumar Reddy had accused the TRS of encouraging defection of its MLAs. However,the TRS hit back,saying Congress too had admitted public representatives from other parties into its fold. A miffed Congress stayed away from the Council election. Their misery was compounded when senior leader and former minister P Sabita Indra Reddy also decided to leave the party. Soon after, another MLA K Upender Reddy had also announced his decision to join the TRS. Congress MLA from LB Nagar in Hyderabad D Sudheer Reddy has also reportedly decided to support the TRS. Reddy could not be reached for his comments immediately. TV channels aired footage of the MLA indicating his decision to support the ruling TRS to 'effectively address problems of his constituency and realise the promises he made." Speculation is also rife about some other MLAs quitting the party. Party sources said Congress may lose the status of the main opposition party if the number of MLAs it has falls below 12. The front comprising Congress, TDP, CPI and Telangana Jana Samithi fared badly in the December 7 2018 elections winning only 21 seats. Congress won 19 seats while the TDP two. TRS clinched a landslide victory, bagging 88 seats. Facing an uphill task in the Lok Sabha election, Congress Friday night announced candidates for eight of the 17 Lok Sabha seats in the state. The list features working presidents of state Congress A Revanth Reddy (Malkajgiri) and Ponnam Prabhakar (Karimnagar). Revanth Reddy, known as a firebrand leader, kicked off his campaign on Saturday by meeting party leaders to seek their cooperation. Dismissing TRS claims of ensuring a better deal for Telangana if it gets 16 Lok Sabha seats (leaving Hyderabad constituency held by ally AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi),he sought to know who would be the Prime Minister if TRS wins. If the congress came to power, Rahul Gandhi would be the Prime Minister, he said. "TRS has no role in this (Lok Sabha election). This is an election between Congress and BJP. Chandrasekhar Rao ji (TRS president and Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao) is trying to play spoilsport," Revanth Reddy said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A shadowy dissident group dedicated to overthrowing Kim Jong Un was behind a raid on Madrid's North Korean embassy last month, the Washington Post has reported, offering the latest explanation for the mysterious event. Ten men burst into the diplomatic mission on February 22, roughing up employees before making off with documents and computers in two embassy vehicles they later abandoned, just days before a high-stakes nuclear summit between North Korean leader Kim and US President Donald Trump that ultimately failed to reach an accord. Speculation over the identity and motive of the assailants has swirled in the Spanish media, with a report in the El Pais daily this week citing the country's intelligence agency as saying at least two of them were linked to the CIA. The Post however reported Friday that the operation was carried out by a group called the "Cheollima Civil Defence" (CCD), a secretive organisation committed to overthrowing the Kim dynasty. Quoting people it said were familiar with the planning and execution of the mission, the newspaper said the group did not act in coordination with any governments, and that US agencies would have been particularly reluctant to be involved given the sensitive timing. The intelligence obtained "could have contacts and documents related to North Korea's efforts to bypass sanctions and import luxury goods from Europe," Sung-Yoon Lee, a North Korea expert at Tufts University, told the paper. The CCD organisation first emerged in 2017 when it posted an online video of Kim Jong Un's nephew, saying it had guaranteed his safety after his father, Kim's half-brother, was killed after being smeared with nerve agent in Kuala Lumpur airport in February that year. Last month the group declared itself as a government-in-exile for the North called "Free Joseon." Joseon is an old name for Korea. The Washington Post's report is the latest twist in coverage surrounding the murky raid, which was initially reported as a break-in. The only element that the government and police have officially confirmed was that on February 22 a North Korean woman who was slightly injured was picked up on a street near the embassy. She is believed to have been the person who alerted authorities. According to the El Pais report, Spain has asked for clarification from the CIA but the US spy agency denied any involvement. Spanish authorities however said the response was "not very convincing," adding that the CIA acted "in probable cooperation" with South Korean intelligence services. The embassy has been without an ambassador since 2017 when Kim Hyok Chol, who is now Pyongyang's special representative for the US and helped in preparations for the summit, was expelled as a "persona non grata" after nuclear tests and missile firings by Pyongyang. The mission has not offered any comment on the incident. Though the February 27-28 summit in Hanoi failed to reach an agreement, both sides say they are keeping the door of diplomacy open. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Election Commission Saturday barred political parties from releasing election manifestos in the last 48 hours before polling. The commission has now made the release of election manifestos a part of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), which is a set of rules to be followed by parties after elections are announced. The amended model code now states, "In case of single phase election, manifesto shall not be released during the prohibitory period, as prescribed under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act 1951. "In case of multi-phase elections, manifesto shall not be released during the prohibitory periods, as prescribed under Section 126 of the RP Act of all the phases of those elections." Section 126 of the act embodies "election silence", which prohibits any form of election campaign in the last 48 hours leading up to voting. As of now there was no rule on timing of release of manifestos. In 2014, the BJP had released its Lok Sabha manifesto on the day of voting in the first phase. Although the Congress had complained to the EC, stating this would influence voters, the commission was unable to act since the MCC is silent on the timing of the manifesto's release. A panel formed by the EC had recently recommended that parties be barred from releasing manifesto in the last 72 hours before polling. While several parties were silent on the issue, the Congress had opposed the proposal. Since model code is not a law, any violation leads to a reprimand by the EC. In the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections, parties cannot release manifesto in the last 48 hours before each phase on April 11, 18, 23, 29, May 6, 12 and May 19. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Deputy Election Commissioner Sudeep Jain Saturday held a series of meetings with leaders of political parties, election and state officials to review poll preparedness and take stock of the ground situation in West Bengal ahead of the general elections. Jain was in the city after a BJP delegation comprising senior leaders Nirmala Sitharaman, Ravi Shankar Prasad and J P Nadda on Wednesday urged the Election Commission to declare West Bengal a "super-sensitive" state to ensure free and fair polls. After meeting Jain, Secretary General of the ruling Trinamool Congress, Partha Chatterjee, told reporters that the BJP had taken recourse to "dishonest tactics" to suggest to the EC that peace was hampered in West Bengal. Chatterjee said that his party had apprised the EC that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) adopted the "ploy" to shield its own weakness and the saffron party's demand was nothing short of an insult to the state. Beginning April 11, West Bengal will see polling in seven phases - its highest-ever - along with Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. BJP leader Mukul Roy, accompanied by senior leaders Shishir Bajoria and Jaiprakash Majumdar, said that he had given evidence to the EC official about TMC chief Mamata Banerjee's demand of declaring all booths in West Bengal as "sensitive" in Assembly elections of 2006 and 2011, besides Lok Sabha polls in 2009. Roy said that he has told Jain that West Bengal Police should not be deployed during the elections for the sake of free and fair polls. Congress leader Pradip Bhattacharya said his party had demanded that all booths in the state should be treated as "sensitive" and sufficient police should be deployed during the counting process on May 23. Bhattacharya added that the EC should act impartially and not get influenced either by the central or state government. Communist Party of India (Marxist) leaders Rabin Deb and Sukhendu Panigrahi also placed their suggestions and demands in the meeting. Apart from the political parties, Jain also held a meeting with district election officers (DEOs), superintendents of police and police commissioners, besides top officials of the state government to review poll preparedness. Jain is also scheduled to meet other central government officials during the day. Meanwhile, 10 companies of the Border Security Force (BSF) have begun route marches in vulnerable pockets in a number of districts including Kolkata, North and South 24 Parganas, to instill confidence among the voters. Chief Electoral Officer Aariz Aftab and other EC officials here were also present in the meeting. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Noted economist Kaushik Basu Saturday urged the government to make available "employment data" even if it is "critical" so that corrective action could be taken. He also raised concerns over "unmistakable signs" of India's economy "slowing down over the last few years". "Given that India has a remarkable global reputation (on statistical data), we don't want that to be damaged. Actually, in general, data is fine but it is the employment data that we have to work harder on and make available, even when it is critical," Basu said. Basu, former chief economic adviser to the Manmohan Singh government, was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the 54th convocation of Indian Institute of Management-Ahmedabad. The former chief economist of the World Bank said the data will help us "see what's happening and then take corrective action". Basu's comments come at a time when a group of 108 economists and social scientists Thursday expressed concerns over "political interference" in influencing statistical data in India. The group had called for restoration of "institutional independence" and integrity to the statistical organisations. In his convocation address, Basu said, "It is unfortunate that data on unemployment is being held back. The concern about this, expressed recently by 108 leading economists, is genuine." Basu said India has always stood out for the "quality and integrity" of its statistical system. "We must take care not to damage this reputation. None of all this is necessary. India's fundamentals are strong and we should be doing much better. The two reasons why this is happening are a shortage of professionalism and a disproportionate focus on big businesses and their interests," he said. "There are unmistakable signs of India's economy slowing down over the last few years. The agriculture sector is in recession. The most worrying is the jobs situation," he said. "If you put together all the piecemeal data coming in, it is clear that our workers are suffering greatly, with unemployment rate at over 7 per cent, according to the Centre for Monitoring the Indian Economy, and youth unemployment at 16 per cent, as per a study by Azim Premji University," he said. "The latest data on industrial growth, pertaining to January 2019, shows that India's industry is barely growing, with the growth rate down to 1.7 per cent. In the year 2017-18, India's exports were a little less than what the country exported in 2013-14, which means virtually zero per cent growth in exports on average," he said. Basu also termed "demonetisation" as a policy decision "which has hurt India's growth". It would not have occurred if there were policymakers who paid heed to this simple axiom that for every policy, one has to anticipate how ordinary individuals and also bureaucrats will respond, he said. "That is the key to designing successful policy mechanisms," he told the graduating students. IIM-A director Errol D'Souza told reporters that the board of the institute had decided to raise the fee of its flagship two-year post graduate programme in management by 4.5 per cent to Rs 22 lakh for the academic year 2019-21. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Rafael Nadal withstood the challenge of Russian Karen Khachanov to set up a blockbuster semi-final with Roger Federer at the ATP Indian Wells Masters Friday despite a flare-up of right knee trouble that required mid-match treatment. World number two Nadal, the highest seed left in the draw after the early ouster of No. 1 Novak Djokovic, dominated both tiebreakers to beat the towering Russian 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (7/2). He booked a 39th career meeting with Federer, a five-time champion at Indian Wells who breezed past 67th-ranked Hubert Hurkacz of Poland 6-4, 6-4. "Hopefully I will be ready for it," said Nadal, who recovered an early break in the opening set and powered through the tiebreaker, but called for the trainer to have supportive tape applied below his right knee three games into the second. "Of course my goal and my idea is to be ready for tomorrow," he said. Although he wasn't moving as well, Nadal gained the first break of the second set to lead 3-2, but was immediately broken himself. He saved a set point in a fierce 10th game that went to deuce three times before Nadal held to make it 5-5. He couldn't convert a break chance in the 11th game as they went to another tiebreaker which the Spaniard again controlled. "Well, I am used to play with some issues, so I just tried to be focused and to keep hold of the situation," said Nadal who has battled knee tendinitis and other injuries throughout his career. "It's one of these victories today that I'm really proud of." Khachanov, who peppered Nadal with 17 aces in the two-hour, 17-minute match, has now lost all six of his career meetings with the Spaniard. He'll be gunning for a chance to claim a fourth Indian Wells title while Federer is seeking to break out of a tie with Djokovic with a record sixth. Nadal leads the head-to-head rivalry with Federer 23-15, but Federer has won 11 of their 20 hard-court meetings, including their last five. However, they haven't met since October of 2017, when Federer triumphed in straight sets in the final of the Shanghai Masters. - Extra energy - ================Federer said he might not feel quite the same tingle of anticipation as fans at the prospect of facing Nadal, but he acknowledged that their clashes always raise the stakes. "If I play Rafa there's extra energy in the building -- there's always a lot on the line," said Federer, who added that so much time has passed since their last meeting that his own current five-match winning streak is of little significance. "I don't think those five matches matter that much, to be honest," he said. "A lot of time has gone by. Federer, a 20-time Grand Slam champion who captured his 100th career title at Dubai last month, overcame breezy conditions on stadium court and a hungry Hurkacz -- a 22-year-old ranked 67th in the world who was playing in his first Masters 1000 quarter-final and just the second quarter-final of his career. Hurkacz settled his early nerves to produce some entertaining rallies, but he couldn't make a dent in Federer's serve. One break in each set was all Federer needed to seal the win after an hour and 14 minutes. "Overall I'm very pleased with that performance," said Federer, who has reached the final four without dropping a set, winning 38 of his 39 service games. "I feel good," he said. "I'm holding my serve comfortably, I'm in a good place mentally when I go into my service games. I think it showed this week thus far, so I hope I can keep that up. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Taking to Twitter, Panneerselvam expressed 'shock' over the 'brutal' attack. Chennai: Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam Saturday strongly condemned the terror attack at two mosques in New Zealand, and expressed his sympathies with the families of the dead. At least 49 worshippers were killed in attacks on the Al Noor Mosque in central Christchurch and the Linwood Mosque in the city's suburb, seen as one of the worst attacks on Muslims in that country. An Indian-origin man was injured and another has been missing since the Friday attacks. Taking to Twitter, Panneerselvam expressed 'shock' over the 'brutal' attack. "The shooting at the mosques in Christchurch is shocking and gives great pain. I strongly condemn the terror attack on innocent civilians," he said in the tweet posted in Tamil. Panneerselvam, also Coordinator of the ruling AIADMK, expressed his sympathies with the families of those killed in "this brutal incident," and condoled the deaths. He also prayed for the well-being of the injured and hoped normalcy returned in that country. A fire broke out on a marine research vessel off Karnataka's New Mangalore coast, following which 30 crew members and 16 scientists were rescued by the coast guard, an official said Saturday. Around 10 pm Friday, Marine Rescue Coordination Centre, Mumbai, was informed about the fire on ocean research vessel (ORV) Sagar Sampada, Coast Guard Inspector General (West region) Vijay Chaphekar said. The vessel belongs to an institute under the Ministry of Earth Sciences. Of the 16 scientists onboard, three were women, he said. The fire broke out in the accommodation area of the vessel and the crew were not able to control its spread. The Coast Guard pressed into service ICGS Vikram and ICGS Sujay to render necessary assistance, the official said. "The Indian Coast Guard ships arrived at vessel's position just past midnight on March 16 and deployed a joint fire-fighting team to contain the blaze," Chaphekar said, adding external fire fighting system fitted on the Indian Coast Guard ships were also used to control the spread of blaze. The team boarded the vessel and assessed the situation. It was found that eight compartments in the accommodation area were on fire, he said. Extensive fire-fighting operations were undertaken which continued for over eight hours. Following that ORV Sagar Sampada proceeded towards New Mangalore harbour safely, Chaphekar said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An ACB court in Gandhinagar Saturday issued a non-bailable warrant against BJP minister Parshottam Solanki in the alleged Rs 400-crore fisheries scam. ACB Court Judge R M Vora issued the warrant against Solanki under section 70 of the CrPC (Code of Criminal Procedure) after he failed to respond to summons and a bailable warrant issued against him by the same court. Solanki is the MLA from Bhavnagar (Rural) and is the minister of state for fisheries in the Vijay Rupani-led Gujarat government. The Gujarat High Court had recently rejected petitions of Solanki as well as former minister of state for fisheries Dileep Sanghani challenging the proceedings initiated against them by a special Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) court in the alleged scam. Solanki and Sanghani had moved the high court after the ACB court in Gandhinagar issued summons to them based on the ACB inquiry report. The case dates back to 2008 when Solanki was the minister of state of fisheries and Sanghani the cabinet minister for agriculture. Complainant Ishaq Maradia had accused Solanki of illegally granting contracts for fishing in 58 reservoirs across the state. After the Gujarat government, led by then chief minister Narendra Modi, refused sanction to prosecute Solanki, Maradia moved the high court in 2012. During past hearings in the high court, Solanki had said the contracts were granted by Sanghani as he was then designated as cabinet minister. Then Gujarat governor Kamla Beniwal, on July 30, 2012, overruled the state cabinet and sanctioned Solanki's prosecution under the Prevention of Corruption Act. Maradia then moved the ACB court demanding criminal prosecution of Solanki and Sanghani. After the case was registered against the two, the special court asked the ACB to conduct an inquiry in May 2013. The report was submitted before the ACB court in 2015 which indicated irregularities in award of contracts for fisheries. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Several of those killed or wounded in the shooting rampage at two New Zealand mosques on Friday were from the Middle East or South Asia, according to initial reports from several governments. The live-streamed attack by an immigrant-hating white nationalist killed at least 49 people as they gathered for weekly prayers in Christchurch. Another 48 people suffered gunshot wounds in the attacks. Bangladesh's honorary consul in Auckland, Shafiqur Rahman Bhuiyan, told The Associated Press that "so far" three Bangladeshis were among those killed and four or five others were wounded, including two left in critical condition. "One leg of an injured needed to be amputated while another suffered bullet injuries in his chest," Rahman Bhuiyan said. He declined to identify the dead or wounded. Two Jordanians were among those killed, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement carried by the state-run Petra service. Foreign Ministry spokesman Sufian Qudah had earlier said that a Jordanian man was killed and eight others were wounded. Christchurch Hospital chief Greg Robertson said Saturday that seven of the 48 gunshot victims admitted after the shootings in had been discharged. Robertson said a 4-year-old girl who had been transferred to an Auckland hospital was in critical condition and 11 patients who remained in Christchurch were also critically wounded. "We have had patients with injuries to most parts of the body that range from relatively superficial soft tissue injuries to more complex injuries involving the chest, the abdomen, the pelvis, the long bones and the head," he said. Many patients will require multiple operations to deal with their complex series of injuries, Robertson said. He said a 2-year-old boy was in stable condition, as was a 13-year-old boy. Mohammed Elyan, a Jordanian in his 60s who co-founded one of the mosques in 1993, was among those wounded, as was his son, Atta, who is in his 30s. That's according to Muath Elyan, Mohammed's brother, who said he spoke to Mohammed's wife after the shooting. Muath said his brother helped establish the mosque a year after arriving in New Zealand, where he teaches engineering at a university and runs a consultancy. He said his brother last visited Jordan two years ago. "He used to tell us life was good in New Zealand and its people are good and welcoming. He enjoyed freedom there and never complained about anything," Muath told The Associated Press. "I'm sure this bloody crime doesn't represent the New Zealanders." Pakistan's Foreign Ministry said four Pakistanis were wounded, and Ministry spokesman Mohammad Faisal tweeted that five other Pakistani citizens are missing after Friday's attacks. Malaysia said two of its citizens were hospitalized, and the Saudi Embassy in Wellington said two Saudis were wounded. India's high commissioner to New Zealand, Sanjiv Kohli, tweeted Saturday that nine Indians were missing and called the attack a "huge crime against humanity." Indian officials have not said whether the nine were believed to be living in Christchurch. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said at least three Turkish citizens were wounded in the attacks in New Zealand and that he has spoken to one of them. Afghanistan's ambassador to Australia and New Zealand said two Afghans are missing and a third person of Afghan origin was treated and released from the hospital. Two Indonesians, a father and son, were also among those shot and wounded, Foreign Ministry spokesman Arrmanatha Nasir said. Nasir said the father is being treated at an intensive care unit and his son is in another ward at the same hospital. He declined to identify them. The man's wife, Alta Marie, posted on Facebook that her husband and their son are both alive, but wounded. Marie said that both were shot in the attack Friday at Christchurch's Linwood Islamic center. "My husband was shot in multiple places and has a drain in his lung," she wrote on Facebook. She said she was with her son, who is "traumatized" after being shot in his back and leg. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Seat sharing among constituents of the opposition "Mahagathbandhan" (grand alliance) in Bihar for Lok Sabha polls will be announced on Monday, Hindustani Awami Morcha (Secular) president Jitan Ram Manjhi said Saturday. The announcement will come following another round of talks among the partners on Sunday, the former chief minister said. On Thursday, Bihar Congress Campaign Committee chairman Akhilesh Prasad Singh had said the seat sharing would be declared on Sunday. "We (grand alliance) will announce our seat sharing for Lok Sabha polls in the state on March 18 at any cost," Majhi told reporters here after a meeting of his party's parliamentary board. The 'Mahagathbandhan', as the grand alliance is called in local parlance, comprises old allies like the Congress and the RJD, besides new entrants such as Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP, the HAM(S), Sharad Yadav's Loktantrik Janata Dal and the Vikashsheel Insaan Party, a fledgling outfit floated by former Bollywood set designer Mukesh Sahni. "Two rounds of talks among the grand alliance partners have been held in Delhi and another round will be held in Patna tomorrow (Sunday)," Manjhi said. An agreement has been virtually reached on the number of seats the HAM(S) would contest, Manjhi said without divulging the details. He said his party wanted to contest in five Lok Sabha seats in Bihar. ALSO READ: Tamil Nadu Congress urges Rahul to contest Lok Sabha polls from the state Earlier in the day, Manjhi's son Santosh Kumar Suman, an MLC and the party's parliamentary board chairman, said an agreement over 3-4 seats have been reached and the deadlock over the other seats will be resolved Sunday. After the RJD, the HAM(S) has the strongest support base among the grand alliance partners in the state and it is not less than that of the Congress, he asserted. When pointed out that the Congress has been given 11 seats and the HAM(S) only five, Manjhi said the Bihar Congress had demanded 11 seats but it has not been finalised. Polling in Bihar will be held in seven phases from April 11 to May 19. Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Saturday said the terrorist attack in New Zealand is a warning to the world that hatred is never benign. She said on Twitter that her heart went out to the victims and their families. She said may the love and support from millions, who are repelled by this crime, sustain the families and give them courage. "The horrific terrorist act in New Zealand should be a warning to the whole world: hatred is NEVER benign," Priyanka tweeted. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) One of the Hyderabad residents injured in the New Zealand mosque attack has died, according to AIMIM president and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi. "It is with a heavy heart that I have to inform that Farhaj Ahsan, one of the two Hyderabadi #ChristChurch victims has passed away. Hes left behind his parents, spouse & children I request everyone to pray for Farhaj & his family, as they deal with this great difficulty," the All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) party leader tweeted Saturday night. Farhaj Ahsan, a software engineer, has been working in New Zealand for the past seven years. He is married and has two children. Ahmed Iqbal Jahangir, another Hyderabad resident, who was shot at in the same incident is recovering in hospital in New Zealand, his brother Khursheed Jahangir said. "I thank the government for helping me get a visa to New Zealand. I am leaving today to see my brother. He is out of danger and recovering," Khursheed said. Iqbal Jahangir was shot in the chest, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A local court here has sentenced a former Indian Air Force sergeant to death for the murder of a 27-year-old corporal in February 2017. Additional District and Sessions Judge Kanwaljeet Singh Bajwa sentenced Sailesh Kumar to death for the murder of Vipin Shukla of Uttar Pradesh when both were posted at Bhisiana Air Force Station. The verdict was pronounced on Friday, officials said. The court also sentenced Kumar's wife to five years rigorous imprisonment for destruction of evidence. The corporal had gone missing in February 2017. After thirteen days, his body was found chopped and packed in polythene bags, as per the police's investigation. The sessions judge observed the accused, a member of the armed forces, should have shown courage in some other field, "in place of butchery". He said, "It would be a mockery of justice and the conscience of society would be shocked, if death penalty was not awarded to him as his act was abhorrent and dastardly. "This is surely a case which falls within the category of rarest of rare cases." According to prosecuting advocate Sunil Tripathi, "We had sought it to be marked as rarest of rare case during the arguments to which the judge acceded." According to the prosecution, the victim's wife told the police that Vipin left home at the Bhissiana Airbase on February 8, 2017, but did not return. She and her father-in-law began searching for him. On February 21, they overheard two youngsters saying a stench was emanating from the sergeant's residential quarters and alerted the police. The police found body parts packed in plastic bags kept in the refrigerator and wardrobe. As per the police, Shukla had illicit relations with Kumar's wife and had planned to kill the corporal. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Identifying the remains of the 157 people killed in an may take up to six months, the airline said in a document on Saturday. Flight 302 plummeted into a field minutes after taking off from Addis Ababa bound for Nairobi last Sunday, killing all on board. The disaster led to the worldwide grounding of the Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, the plane that crashed. Witnesses said the plane nose-dived into remote farmland southeast of the Ethiopian capital, reducing the plane to small pieces of debris buried deep in the earth. People of 35 nationalities were killed in the crash. In a document distributed by the airline to family members who lost loved ones in the crash, laid out a timetable for the return of victims' belongings and the distribution of death certificates. ALSO READ: What we know about the Boeing 737 MAX crash and what comes next "DNA result will be announced approximately between 5 to 6 months from the date the sample is collected," read the document. Relatives of the victims could submit DNA samples in Addis Ababa or at Ethiopian Airlines offices worldwide, it added. The document was shared with AFP by a relative of a victim, who asked not to be named. The person said that under the victim's Jewish faith, no funeral could be held until his remains were returned, and the six-month delay was stressing the victim's family. "They are in immense pressure and remorse as it is, without waiting half a year," the relative said. The crash of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 was the second deadly incidence for the 737 MAX 8 following the October crash of an Indonesian Lion Air jet that killed all 189 passengers and crew. The Boeing 737 MAX 8 is a brand-new jet. The crash of two of them in the space of just a few months, coupled with similarities in the circumstances, led countries and airlines around the world to ground the plane. The Ethiopian plane's voice and flight data recorders are in Paris, where French, Ethiopian and American investigators will try to determine what went wrong. The Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur will adopt Amazon Web Services (AWS) Educate programme to help students gain cloud computing skills including hands-on experience in artificial intelligence (AI), a top official of the institute has said. "We are happy to introduce AWS Educate programme to provide AWS Cloud Computing experience and AI-enablement for all our students, irrespective of their branch of study. We look forward to some really innovative solution ideas coming out of this," Director IIT KGP Prof P P Chakrabarti said Friday. The AWS Educate programme is Amazons global initiative to provide students and educators with resources needed to accelerate cloud-related learning and to help power the workforce of tomorrow. The programme offers a robust set of no-cost tools, resources and AWS Promotional Credits for students and educators to boost their cloud skills and experience, an IIT KGP statement said. "AWS Educate is designed to impart skill to students with the latest advancements in cloud computing technology and provide them with an environment to experiment on AWS Cloud, without making them worried about cost or access challenges," the statement quoted Amazon Internet Services Private Limited, president, Rahul Sharma as saying. "We are pleased to work with IIT Kharagpur in their journey of higher learning, and to help them nurture new talent for a cloud-ready workforce," he was quoted in the statement. As part of AWS Educate, the students will gain access to 12 Cloud Career Pathways covering topics that are in demand by employers, such as machine learning, cyber security, and software development, each with over 30 hours of content. Upon completion, learners are eligible to receive an AWS Educate Certificate of Completion or an AWS Educate Badge. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) continues to work with the sanctions committee on the listing of as a global terrorist and will show patience on the issue, official sources said Saturday, days after blocked a proposal at the world body to ban the JeM chief. They also said steps taken by in the last few days, against terror groups are cosmetic in nature. " continues to work with the UNSC's sanction committee on listing of JeM chief as a global terrorist," official sources said. believes " is a major issue for They know a number of terror groups are based in Pakistan", sources added. On blocking Azhar's listing as a global terrorist, sources said India will show patience as long as it takes. On continuing to oppose Azhar's listing as global terrorist, government sources said there are issues which China needs to resolve with On Wednesday, China for the fourth time blocked the bid in the to designate the chief of the Pakistan-based terror group as a "global terrorist" by putting a technical hold on the proposal. The Chinese move was termed "disappointing" by India. SPO Khushboo Jan was shot by unidentified gunmen outside her house in the district's Vehil village. Relative mourning the death of deceased SPO Jan on Saturday. (Photo: ANI) Jammu: A Special Police Officer was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district on Saturday. SPO Khushboo Jan was shot by unidentified gunmen outside her house in the district's Vehil village. "Terrorists today fired on a woman police Khushboo Jan at her village in Vehil area of Shopian district. She sustained critical injuries and was evacuated to a hospital where she succumbed," said Jammu and Kashmir police in a press statement. She suffered critical bullet injuries around 2.40 pm and was rushed to a hospital where she succumbed, the police added. Police has registered a case and initiated an investigation in the matter. India has conveyed to the US that it should not withdraw its troops from Afghanistan without putting in place an elected "political structure" to govern the country, official sources said Saturday. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale met US Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad recently and apprised India's views about drawdown of US troops from Afghanistan, they said. The US has intensified its efforts in the past few months, including holding talks with the Taliban, to end the more than 17-year conflict in Afghanistan. In the meeting with Khalilzad, Gokhale conveyed that India's preference is for having an elected government in Kabul and not an interim arrangement when the US withdraws its forces from the war-ravaged country, the sources said. Khalilzad informed Gokhale about the issues under discussions with the Taliban and that Washington was insisting on an assurance that territory of Afghanistan will not be used for any terror activities. The foreign secretary told the US envoy that it should include terrorist groups that acted against India to which Khalilzad gave an affirmative response. Major powers such as the US, Russia and Iran have been reaching out to the Taliban as part of efforts to push the stalled Afghan peace process. India has been a key stakeholder in the peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan. In a significant move, India had sent two former diplomats in "non official" capacity to a conference on the Afghan peace process in Moscow in November last year which was attended by a high-level Taliban delegation. The conference organised by Russia was attended by representatives of Afghanistan as well as from several other countries, including the US, Pakistan and China. India has been maintaining a policy of not engaging with the Taliban and pressing for an Afghan-owned and Afghan-led peace initiative to bring peace and stability in the war-ravaged country. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India's High Commission in on Saturday said that it has been pursuing with local authorities whereabouts of seven Indians and two Indian-origin persons after the terror attacks on two Christchurch mosques. Two Indians are receiving treatments, the Indian mission said. "We have been pursuing with NZ auth whereabouts of 9 Indians, incl 2 PIOs. 2 indians receiving treatment. Following up with NZ Govt for others. Also r in regular touch with their families (sic)," the Twitter account of the Indian High Commission in said. At least 49 worshippers were killed on Friday in attacks on the Al Noor Mosque in central Christchurch and the Linwood Mosque in the city's outer suburb, in what appeared to be the worst attack on Muslims in a western country. On Friday, the Twitter account of India's High Commissioner in Sanjiv Kohli tweeted: "As per updates received from multiple sources there are 9 missing persons of indian nationality/ origin. Official confirmation still awaited. Huge crime against humanity. Our prayers with their families". In New Delhi, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Friday that India's High Commission in New Zealand is in touch with local authorities for more information. India's High Commission has said that any Indian affected by the attacks on two Christchurch mosques can contact the mission for assistance. The mission has tweeted two contact numbers 021803899 and 021850033 for providing assistance. Witnesses said that victims being shot at close range, with women and children believed to be among those killed. The gunman at one mosque was an Australian-born citizen, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said in Sydney, describing him as "an extremist, right-wing, violent terrorist". Approximately 200,000 Indian and Indian-origin people live in New Zealand. There are over 30,000 Indian students in the country, according to the Indian High Commission's data on its website. India will show patience with China for "as long as it takes" but will not compromise its position on terrorism, government sources said Saturday, days after China blocked a fresh move at the UN to designate Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. China has to resolve certain issues with Pakistan though it has adequate information that certain terror groups are operating from Pakistani soil and they are against Chinese interests as well, sources said. It was for China to resolve the issues with Pakistan, and India will show patience on it, they said, adding New Delhi has shared evidence against Azhar with all the UN Security members including China. On Wednesday, China for the fourth time blocked the bid in the UN Security Council to designate Azhar by putting a technical hold on the proposal. The Chinese move was termed "disappointing" by India. Sources said India was "cautiously" confident that eventually Azhar will get listed as it has a solid case against the JeM chief. India is not going to make any compromise or cut any deal with any member nation of the UN Security Council or UN Sanctions Committee on designating Azhar as global terrorists, sources said, adding New Delhi is ready for a long-haul on the issue. They said 14 out of the 15 members of the UN Security Council (UNSC) supported India on the issue while seven members were co-sponsoring the resolution to list Azhar. India will not rest until he is proscribed by the UN, they said. The fresh proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council was moved by France, the UK and the US, in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. JeM had claimed responsibility for the Pulwama attack. Sources said terrorism was an issue which is not-negotiable for India and if China needed more time, New Delhi was ready to wait. They said India was not going to approach the UN Security Council on the issue of Azhar and that if there was any other option to list Azhar, then it was for the members of the powerful body to explore. They also ruled out the possibility of any mediation by any country to resolve issues between India and Pakistan. In 2009, India moved a proposal by itself to designate Azhar. In 2016 again India moved the proposal with the P3 - the United States, the United Kingdom and France in the UN's 1267 Sanctions Committee to ban Azhar, also the mastermind of the attack on the air base in Pathankot in January, 2016. In 2017, the P3 nations moved a similar proposal again. However, on all occasions China, a veto-wielding permanent member of the UN Security Council, blocked India's proposal from being adopted by the Sanctions Committee. India and the US have identified small air launch unmanned aerial vehicles and a lightweight small arms technology project along with aircraft maintenance for defence collaboration, a top Pentagon official has said. The US statement came as defence officials from the two countries held their latest round of Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) talks here. The India-US DTTI meeting focused on encouraging the US and Indian industry to work together and develop next-generation technologies. "One project we're looking at is small air launch UAVs," US Undersecretary of Defence for Acquisition and Sustainment Ellen Lord told a media roundtable at the Pentagon on Friday. Lord, who co-chaired the meeting along with Secretary of Defence Production Ajay Kumar, said the teams are looking at very specific deliverables on the specific dates with key individuals having responsibility. "Overall, we look at this as a cost efficient, cost effective way to provide additional capability to the war fighter. There are three proposed mission scenarios, humanitarian assistance/disaster relief, cross border operations and cave tunnel inspection," Lord said. On the drones, the discussions are mainly between the US Air Force Research Laboratory and India's Defence Research and Development Organisation. In April, the two sides will write the technical planning document. "We plan to sign that sometimes in September timeframe," she said, adding that the potential exists to involve the Indian industry in its co-development. The two sides also talked about virtual, augmented mixed reality for aircraft maintenance, which she stressed can deliver very significant potential to the two countries. "What we want to do is take both the US and Indian technology and translate that into a war fighting capability that both the US and the Indians can use. This is very much a collaboration in terms of our governments, our industries and our overall know-how. The beneficiaries will be both the US as well as the Indians," Lord said. The next meeting will be held in India in September. With some of these systems, whether it be launching UAVs or virtual, augmented mixed reality, they are trying to focus on bolstering capabilities of platforms the two countries can share, she said. "There is lightweight, small arms technology project," Lord said. The key is the combined weapons and ammunition offer a 40 per cent weight reduction and improved accuracy. The ammunition uses full polymer casings that significantly reduced weight and give less heat transfer and recoil. "This is an area where there's co-development as well as co-production opportunity. What we're interested is technologies, where the US has brought them to a certain level and there's an appetite for more investment and for whatever reason we're not able to get to that in the US right now," the top Pentagon official said. Under the DTTI, the two countries have a number of joint working groups to identify areas for co-development and co-production. These are joint working group in aircraft carrier technology, land systems, naval systems, air systems, and other systems. It all started in 2012, when then Defence Secretary Leon Panetta directed Deputy Secretary of Defence Ashton Carter to undertake an initiative to provide increased US senior level oversight and engagement to get beyond these obstacles. The DTTI's aim is to transform the bilateral defence relationship into one that is limited only by independent strategic decisions, rather than bureaucratic obstacles or inefficient procedures; and strengthen India's defence industrial base by moving away from the traditional "buyer-seller" dynamic toward a more collaborative approach. It also aims at exploring new areas of technological collaboration from science and technology cooperation through co-development and co-production and expand US-Indian business ties. "These interactions really form the basis of a very, very strong industry interactions as well," Lord said. The DTTI meeting included updates on ongoing projects and collaborative opportunities in land, naval, air, and aircraft carrier technologies; a meeting with the US and Indian industry representatives; a visit to Norfolk Naval Station to tour the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and destroyer USS Bainbridge; and a visit to a US defence company. "The DTTI is really delivering some opportunities, for both of our industrial bases to both better interact, as well as to bring the best of technology and innovation," Lord added. Indian students are set to benefit from an improved post-study visa regime as part of a new "International Education Strategy" launched by the UK government on Saturday in preparation for its post- policies. The strategy is aimed at increasing the total number of international students from around the world choosing to study in the UK higher education system from the current level of 460,000 to 600,000 each year by 2030. Indian students, who account for a major chunk of applicants from outside the (EU) after China, are believed to be particularly sensitive to the post-study work option of being able to gain work experience following their degree courses at UK universities. The new strategy, set to be rolled out in the coming years, will offer undergraduate and Masters' students the chance to stay in the UK to look for work for six months after graduating. We know that our Indian students are ambitious and passionate about their chosen career paths, and we welcome the focus on employability in the international education strategy, said Vivienne Stern, Director of the Universities UK International (UUK), the higher education representative body which worked with the government on the new strategy. The target to grow the number of international students in the UK to 600,000 should send a clear message to students around the world: we want you here, she said. Under the plans being formalised, undergraduate and Masters' students will also have three months before graduating during which they can find work and change from a study visa to a work visa. At present, the process to switch from a student to work visa while in the UK is extremely complex. Besides, PhD students will be able to stay in the UK for up to a year to find work after graduating and will also have three months before graduating during which they can find work and change from a study visa to a work visa. "During the post-study leave period, students will have unrestricted access to work, the strategy paper notes. Additionally, international graduates will be given two years after graduating during which they can apply to switch their UK study visa to a UK work visa from outside the UK. "The withdrawal of the PSW (post-study work) visa was attributed with a decline in international student recruitment in the UK from key markets, notably Between 2010-11 and 2016-17, the number of higher education students from more than halved, noted a report by the UK's All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for International Students in November last year. "Even attracts more students from than the UK does, warned Indian-origin peer Lord Karan Bilimoria, who has been lobbying for the return of a post-study visa option as the co-chair of the APPG and of the UK Council for International Student Affairs. While Indian student visa numbers for 2018 registered a 35 per cent hike to hit 19,505, that figure is seen as way below the potential applications when compared to at 99,723 student visas. As we prepare to leave the EU it is more important than ever to reach out to our global partners and maximise the potential of our best assets that includes our education offer and the international students this attracts, said UK education secretary Damian Hinds as he unveiled the new strategy, which is also aimed at streamlining the student application procedures for all international students. Our education exports are ripe for growth, and my international economic department stands ready to engage and support UK providers from across the education sector to grow their global activity as we implement this new International Education Strategy, added UK trade secretary Liam Fox. The vision for an annual 30 per cent hike in international students by 2030 is expected to boost the income generated by the UK's education exports to 35 billion pounds. The new strategy sets its focus on not only retaining existing strong markets such as Europe, but raising the profile of the education sector in global markets such as Asia, and As part of the strategy, the government will also appoint a new International Education Champion in charge of boosting overseas activity and striking key partnerships. (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.) Asserting that Priyanka Gandhi's entry into will make "no difference" to the BJP's prospects in the Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Saturday dubbed it an "internal matter" of that party. He also dismissed as "false alarm" the SP-BSP alliance and claimed that it was already embroiled in dispute. "The Congress has made her (Priyanka) the party general secretary (in-charge of eastern UP) this time. It is an internal matter of that party as to how it will utilise her services. "Earlier too, she had campaigned for the Congress. And this time too she is the party's campaigner and it will make no difference (to the BJP)," he told PTI in his first interview after announcement of the Lok Sabha poll schedule on Sunday. Asked as to what extent the SP-BSP alliance could dent the BJP's prospects in the hustings, Adityanath said, "The fledgling SP-BSP alliance is already embroiled in dispute." He was referring to reports of hard bargaining between the two parties over certain seats. "It (alliance) is nothing but a 'hauaa' (false alarm)," the chief minister said in his exclusive interview during which he touched upon various key issues including the IAF airstrikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Ram temple. The 46-year-old saffron robed monk-turned-politician said in general elections state-level local issues hardly matter. "People will vote for that person and party in whose hands the country is safe, secure and prosperous," he said, adding the voters know this very well. "An effort is being made to whip up an unnecessary confusion and 'hauaa'," the BJP hardliner said, adding the current polls will present a "golden opportunity" for his party, which will come out with flying colours. Referring to the IAF air strikes targeting terror camps inside Pakistan on February 26, Adityanath said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken "bold steps" as and when needed in the interest of the country. After the Pulwama terror attack which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel, all accused were eliminated by India, catapulting the nation to an elite club of countries that are capable of giving a befitting reply to its enemies, he said. "This is the sign of an efficient and competent leadership." "Modiji began with smashing insurgent hideouts in the northeast (Myanmar border) and followed up such strong measures in the aftermath of the Uri terror attack demolishing terror bases across the LoC in one go," Adityanath said. He said by carrying out the pre-dawn anti-terror airstrikes on February 26, India has isolated Pakistan in the international arena and also made New Delhi's strategic prowess felt all over the world. "We can say that India has emerged as a global superpower under the strong leadership of PM Modi," Adityanath said. Asked whether these national security issues will be relevant among people in rural areas, who form a bulk of the electorate, he said every section of the society was aware of issues such as "development, good governance and nationalism". On whether the anti-terror airstrikes in Pakistan's Balakot have overshadowed the Ram temple issue in Ayodhya, he said, "Every child knows the importance of Lord Ram and considers him a role model." "Everybody needs prosperity as well as security." People have realised that things which were impossible for parties such as the Congress, SP, BSP, RJD and the TMC, have become possible for the BJP under Modi's leadership, the UP chief minister said. "What was impossible earlier, is possible now," he said, adding "Modi hai to mumkin hai" (Modi makes it possible). Exuding confidence that the BJP will come up with flying colours in the Lok Sabha elections across the country on the basis of Prime Minister Modi's 'naam' (name) and 'kaam' (work), Adityanath said, "In 2014 Lok Sabha polls it was Modi's 'naam', and in 2019 it is both 'naam' and 'kaam'." He expressed confidence that the BJP will improve its tally in Uttar Pradesh and win over 74 out of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state. On why voters did not favour the BJP in the recent assembly polls in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, Adityanath said in states where a particular party is in power for a considerable amount of time, as long as 15 years, certain anti-incumbency factors crop up. "Our vote share has gone up in Madhya Pradesh and we fared well in Rajasthan despite odds. We will do well in the Lok Sabha polls in these states as the Assembly elections were fought on local issues, whereas this is an election for the nation," he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik electronically laid the foundation stone of a five-storey, earthquake-resistant building to provide accommodation for Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrims, an official said Saturday. The new Durga Bhawan has been planned to meet the demand for accommodation of pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, he said. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 50 crore and the building with a plinth area of 14,800 sq.ft and covered area of 60,000 sq.ft will provide free accommodation to around 4,000 pilgrims every day, a spokesman of the Raj Bhavan said. The new building will be almost twice the size of the old Durga Bhawan and would have adequate facilities such as lockers, toilets, blankets, ready to eat snacks and beverages as well as provision of four elevators for vertical circulation, he added. The reconstruction of Durga Bhawan is part of the approved master plan of the Bhawan area which was prepared by the Bhawan's shrine board while, the extended shrine area was designed by the School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, the spokesman said, adding the phase-1 which has four task is expected to be completed by 2021. The Governor, after laying the foundation stone on Friday, directed the CEO of the shrine board to ensure its speedy completion. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Congress Saturday announced that former chief minister K L Chishi would be its candidate for Nagaland's lone Lok Sabha seat. Chishi, who served briefly as chief minister of Nagaland in 1990, had quit the Congress to join the BJP. Chishi contested the 2018 state elections unsuccessfully as BJP candidate from Atoizu A/C under Zunheboto district. Chishi returned to the Congress' fold recently and said, I have rejoined Congress since my heart and spirit could never be separated from the party that has been the true epitome of secularism and upholding the sanctity of the Indian Constitution". The Congress also announced that Alemjongshi Longkumer, a former state bureaucrat, would contest the byelection from the 26-Aonglenden Assembly constituency seat in Nagaland. Announcing the candidates for both the elections, Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee General Secretary G K Zhimomi said that their candidature was approved by the Central Election Committee of the All India Congress Committee. The announcement was made late last night, he said. Zhimomi said that the ticket distribution would be held on Wednesday in Dimapur. The only opposition in the state Assembly Naga Peoples Front - is yet to declare its candidates for the two elections but has informed that party tickets would be distributed along with tickets for Manipur Lok Sabha seats on Tuesday in Kohima. The ruling People's Democratic Alliance has distributed tickets for both the elections to sitting BJP-Nationalist Democratic Progressive Alliance (NDPP) MP Tokheho Yepthomi for the parliamentary seat and Shiraingain Longkumer for the Assembly seat. Independent candidate O Tinujungshi Longkumer, brother of late Imtikumzuk Longkumer, who was the NDPP legislator of Assembly segment, has also declared to contest the bypoll as Independent candidate. Nominations for both the seats will open and conclude on March 18 while the poll will be held on April 11. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A US Navy veteran held in Iran, the first American known to be detained since President Donald Trump took office, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison, his lawyer said Saturday. Mark Zaid told The Associated Press that Michael White was convicted on charges of insulting Iran's supreme leader and posting private information. Zaid says he learned of the sentence from the State Department, which in turn learned of it from the Swiss government, which looks over American interests in Iran. Iranian state media have not reported the sentence, which was first reported by The New York Times. White, of Imperial Beach, California, went to Iran to see a girlfriend he met online and had booked a July 27 flight back home. He never returned. Trump has pursued a maximalist campaign against Tehran that includes America's withdrawal from Iran's nuclear deal with world powers. Iran has in the past detained Westerners and dual nationals to use them as leverage in negotiations. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Lok Sabha Speaker and Indore BJP MP Sumitra Mahajan Saturday said she had given up police vehicles and security personnel provided to her as part of protocol. Mahajan, in a letter to Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, said she had stopped using these government vehicles from March 10 itself, when the Election Commission announced the Lok Sabha poll schedule. "In view of the Lok Sabha election, the model code of conduct has come into vogue since March 10. On that day only, I stopped using the government vehicles. But being in the Constitutional post of the Lok Sabha Speaker, police vehicles and guards were accompanying my private vehicle," her letter said. "As Indore was a peaceful and safe city, I do not need vehicles and guards given under protocol. I want to inform you that I am giving up these facilities," she said in the letter. Mahajan has been Indore Lok Sabha MP since 1989. Indore will go to polls on May 19. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) MEA said that Drian informed Swaraj about action taken by Paris against leader of JeM, which had claimed responsibility for Pulwama attack. The MEA said the French foreign minister also informed Swaraj that France has raised the issue with the European Union. (Photo: File) New Delhi: French Foreign Minister Le Drian Friday held a telephonic conversation with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and informed her about France imposing sanctions on JeM chief Masood Azhar by freezing his assets. The External Affairs Ministry said that Drian informed Swaraj about the action taken by Paris against the leader of the Jaish-e-Mohammed, which had claimed responsibility for the Pulwama attack. Telephonic conversation between EAM @SushmaSwaraj French Foreign Minister @JY_LeDrian on action taken by France to sanction Masood Azhar, Chief of the UN proscribed terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammedhttps://t.co/7ZAbjmHW1C pic.twitter.com/ceg2FAjN7a Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) March 15, 2019 France sanctioned Masood Azhar at the national level by freezing his assets, the MEA said, days after China blocked a move to designate him as a global terrorist by the United Nations. The MEA said the French foreign minister also informed Swaraj that France has raised the issue with the European Union. "He reiterated that France has always been and will always be on India side in the fight against terrorism," the MEA said. On her part, Swaraj thanked Drian for France's "steadfast support" and said that India looked forward to continuing this cooperation on the anti-terrorism front. The action on the part of France was an expression of partnership with India and was in consonance with the global intent by responsible nations committed to fight against terror, including cross-border terrorism anywhere in the world, the MEA said. France, the US and the UK had moved a proposal at the UN to designate Masood Azhar as a global terrorist after the February 14 Pulwama attack, in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu Saturday stressed the need to make world class drugs available at affordable prices, with thrust on research and innovation. "There should be an unwavering commitment to high standards of quality in drug manufacturing and quality frameworks such as Good Manufacturing Practices should strictly be adhered to," he said. Addressing the second decennial celebrations of Sarojini Naidu Vanita Pharmacy Maha Vidyalaya in Hyderabad, he called for a thrust on research and innovation. The Vice President said new healthcare challenges were emerging every day, especially with the alarming rise in the number of non-communicable and lifestyle diseases and cancers. "New molecules and new drugs will have to be discovered and treatment protocols will have to be continuously upgraded and updated. All this will have to be achieved without compromising on the affordability of drugs," he said. While major multinationals and pharma companies would be interested in producing and selling drugs that cater to common and chronic diseases affecting larger populations, there was a need to develop new molecules and drugs to combat lesser known diseases, particularly the group called 'rare diseases', affecting more than 70 million people in India, he said. While it is estimated that there are around 7,000 rare diseases in the world, most diseases have no treatment and the costs are prohibitively expensive in cases where they are available, he said It was therefore important for the Indian pharma industry to look into the need to develop low-cost drugs for treating rare diseases, he said. Naidu expressed confidence that the goal to make India a global leader in end-to-end drug manufacture would be achieved in the coming years in view of the initiatives taken to promote the pharmaceutical sector in the country. "India has undertaken a long and arduous, yet rewarding journey in Pharmacology, from the 'Charak Samhita' of traditional Indian medicine system, to becoming the third largest drug manufacturer in the world, in terms of volume, in the field of modern medicine, he said. Maintaining its legacy of being a pioneer in the field of pharmacology, India today enjoys the exalted position of being the 'Pharmacy to the world', he said. the vice president noted that India is the largest provider of generic drugs globally and that 80 per cent of the anti-retroviral drugs used worldwide to combat AIDS are supplied by Indian pharma companies. "I was informed that over 65 per cent of WHO's demand for DPT and BCG vaccines and 90 per cent measles vaccine are supplied by India. Thus, Indias contribution to global healthcare has been spectacular," he said. Naidu said he would like to see the country emerge as the world leader in generic medicines. "At the same time, we should not hesitate to promote Indian systems of medicine," he said. The Vice President asked young researchers to work towards standardizing and benchmarking Indian systems of medicine, using globally established experimental protocols to establish the efficiency, validity and efficacy of traditional medicines. The focus should remain on speedy introduction of generic drugs into the market, he said. Rural health programmes, lifesaving drugs and preventive vaccines should also receive attention from policy makers and Pharma companies alike, Naidu said. Though the intake of pharmacy students has improved substantially due to the drastic increase in the number of pharmacy colleges in the country, the need of the hour was to revamp pharmacy education in India and bring it on par with global standards, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A-62-year-old man was arrested for allegedly supplying ammunition illegally to criminals based in Delhi-NCR and Punjab, police said Saturday. Amarlal, a native of Abohar in Punjab and residing in Patel Nagar, was arrested on Friday at Sonia Vihar Pushta road near MCD Khatta here. He had arrived in a white car to deliver a huge cache of ammunition to his contact, said G Ram Gopal Naik, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime). A total of 1,000 live cartridges of .32 pistol, 1,000 live cartridges of .315 pistol and Rs 25,000 were recovered from his possession, he said. During interrogation, Amarlal disclosed that he used to get the ammunition at a cost of Rs 125-150 per cartridge from a known gun house owner at Shahbad in Ambala, Haryana, and sold them to criminals for Rs 200-250 per cartridge, Naik said. He has been supplying the ammunition illegally to criminals since 2002, the DCP said. Naik said Amarlal initially used to work as a salesman in gun houses in Abohar and Fazilka in Punjab. He then started his own gun house in Abohar but suffered losses, the DCP said Naik said Amarlal later began selling ammunition illegally to criminals and also helped people get fake arms licenses. He was first arrested by the CBI in a fake arms license case in 2002 and later on by local police in the Arms Act cases, said the officer. Further investigation is underway, police said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A leading US daily has questioned China's blocking of another move at the UN to designate Masood Azhar as a "global terrorist", stating that Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's chief is a "proven threat" and Beijing is "loath to upset" its "all-weather" friendship with Islamabad. The Editorial Board of the Wall Street Journal, in an editorial piece titled 'China Shields a Jihadist - Beijing blocks a UN attempt to sanction the Kashmir killer', said without meaningful global action against jihadist enclaves in Pakistan, India may "understandably conclude it has few options other than a military escalation". The editorial comes after China for the fourth time blocked a bid in the United Nations (UN) Security Council to designate Azhar as a "global terrorist" by putting a technical hold on the proposal on Wednesday, a move India termed as disappointing. The proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council was moved by France, the UK and the US on February 27, days after the Pulwama terror attack which killed forty Indian soldiers. "...Azhar is a proven threat. Why would China give him a terror pass?," the Editorial Board asked. "Beijing is loath to upset what it calls its 'all- weather' friendship with Pakistan, and one reason is strategic. The US cut military aid to Islamabad last year after President (Donald) Trump cited its support of terrorists in Afghanistan, and China wants to fill the gap," it said. The editorial noted that tensions had de-escalated between India and Pakistan after the February 14 terror attack by Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Kashmir's Pulwama district which killed 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel. In the days since (Pulwama attack), "the global focus now shifts to rooting out terrorists in Pakistan, but China is already easing international pressure on Islamabad to do so," the editorial said. It said the proposal moved in the UN Security Council's Sanctions Committee against Azhar in the last 10 years would have subjected the JeM chief to a travel ban, an assets freeze and an arms embargo. A UN blacklisting would pressure Pakistan to comply, the Editorial Board said, adding that the US State Department concluded in 2017 that Islamabad failed to stop the JeM from "openly raising money, recruiting and training" in the country. But Beijing put a hold on the proposal saying they "still need more time" to consider the matter, according to Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang. The editorial noted that the international community should not "expect a change" in this stance given that Beijing has blocked Security Council action against Azhar in 2016 and 2017. Lu suggested that UN sanctions against Azhar could endanger the region's stability, "but the opposite is true", the write-up noted. "Without meaningful global action against jihadist enclaves in Pakistan, New Delhi may understandably conclude it has few options other than a military escalation," it added. The editorial cited the American Enterprise Institute's China Global Investment Tracker, saying China has poured nearly USD 32 billion into Pakistani infrastructure through Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative. From 2008-2017, Pakistan imported USD 6 billion in weapons from China, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies, making it Beijing's biggest arms customer in Asia. The editorial also noted that China was "shielding" Azhar even as it uses the threat of terror to sanction its own citizens - the Chinese Uighur Muslims. It said in its northwestern Xinjiang province, more than one million Chinese Uighur Muslims have been detained in "re-education" centers under the guise of preventing extremism. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said on Saturday Prime Minister Narendra Modi had made false promises and had "zero achievements" to highlight. Addressing public meetings in Jamwa Ramgarh and Bhandrej, Gehlot alleged that Modi had failed to fulfil the promises he had made in the 2014 Lok Sabha election and took wrong decisions. The senior Congress leader claimed that demonetisation and the hastily-implemented goods and services tax were among the decisions that did not benefit the people. The chief minister said the farmers and traders were disappointed with the Modi government. "He (Modi) makes tall promises, but does nothing. He has been exposed in front of the public." Gehlot also hit out at former chief minister Vasundhara Raje, alleging that she had created a divide among the people of different castes. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday urged his supporters to take the 'main bhi chowkidar' (I too am watchman) pledge and said he was not alone in the fight against graft and social evils, drawing ridicule from Congress president Rahul Gandhi. "Your Chowkidar is standing firm & serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar. Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar," the prime minister wrote on Twitter. He also posted a short video to drive home his message. Soon after, Gandhi mocked Modi and tweeted, "Defensive tweet Mr Modi! You feeling a little guilty today" while a tagging a picture of Modi along with businessmen such as Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi, Anil Ambani and Gautam Adani. The Congress president earlier alleged that Modi only served the interests of his industrialist-friends. Modi has often described himself as a "chowkidar" who would neither allow corruption nor get corrupted himself. Gandhi has been repeatedly hurling the "chowkidar chor hai" (watchman is the thief) jibe at Modi to claim irregularities and favouritism in the Rafale fighter jet deal, a charge the BJP-led government has rejected. Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala hit back at Modi accusing him of being the "only chowkidar who is a thief". "One who wears a suit worth Rs 10 lakh and who helps Bank fraudsters Modi-Mehul-Mallya, one who wasts public money to the tune of Rs 52,000 crore for his own propaganda, one who spends Rs 2,010 crore to travel to 84 countries on people's money and one who helped in theft of Rs 30,000 crore in rafale jet deal, only one Chowkidar is a thief," he said in a tweet in Hindi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress president trained his guns at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, saying the PM was busy posing for cameras at the Corbett Park when CRPF jawans were being killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama. Launching his party's campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls in Uttarakhand, Gandhi also said the Congress will introduce a scheme of guaranteed minimum income for the poor if elected to power. "Immediately after the Pulwama attack, in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed, the Congress had said it was with the government and the country. I had cancelled all my programmes. "Everyone knows what Narendra Modi was doing when our jawans were being killed. He was posing for the cameras to shoot for a Geographic documentary," the Congress president said to loud cheers from a large gathering at the Parade Ground here. "Modi shoots for three-and-a-half hours for a Geographic film on a day something like Pulwama happens and he still talks about patriotism," he added. On February 14, 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed his explosives-laden vehicle into their convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. Gandhi said everyone earning below a certain level would be given a guaranteed minimum income, which would go straight into the accounts of the beneficiaries, if the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) was elected to power. He added that India would be the first country in the world to introduce a scheme like this. The seven-phased Lok Sabha polls will be held from April 11 to May 19 and the counting of votes will be taken up on May 23. Congress president Rahul Gandhi launched his party's campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls in Uttarakhand on Saturday, saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi was posing for cameras at the Corbett National Park for a documentary when CRPF jawans were being killed in Pulwama. At a rally here, in which BJP veteran and former Uttarakhand chief minister Bhuvan Chandra Khanduri's son Manish Khanduri joined the Congress, Gandhi also said his party would introduce a scheme of guaranteed minimum income for the poor if elected to power. "Immediately after the Pulwama attack, in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed, the Congress had said it was with the government and the country. I had cancelled all my programmes. "Everyone knows what Narendra Modi was doing when our jawans were being killed in Pulwama. He was posing for the cameras to shoot for a National Geographic documentary," Gandhi said to loud cheers from a large gathering at the Parade Ground. "Modi shoots for three-and-a-half hours on a day something like Pulwama happens and he still talks about patriotism," the Congress president added. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had rejected the charges when they were first levelled by the Congress. On the issue of the Rafale fighter jet deal, Gandhi reiterated his charge of Modi backing industrialist Anil Ambani in getting a related offset contract, a charge repeatedly denied by the government. "All of you must have heard of Anil Ambani. Can he make an aeroplane? He cannot even make a paper aeroplane as children do," he said, holding up a piece of paper. "Still, Modi took him along with him as part of his delegation to France to ensure that he got the deal worth Rs 30,000 crore," he added. Gandhi asked why the defence deal, negotiated by the previous UPA regime at Rs 526 crore per aircraft, was finalised by the Modi government for Rs 1,600 crore apiece. Reiterating the "chowkidar chor hai" (the watchman is a thief) barb, the Congress president said he had posed four questions to the prime minister in Parliament on the Rafale deal. "The prime minister delivered a long speech lasting one-and-a-half hours in Parliament, but failed to answer even one of my questions. All he did was keep looking up, down and sideways. Why? Because he is guilty," he said and asked the youth of the state to pose the same questions to Modi when he comes to Uttarakhand for campaigning. Gandhi claimed that even the French president had confirmed that awarding the offset contract to Ambani was a precondition to the deal put forward by Modi. "Even the then defence minister Manohar Parrikar is on record saying he had no knowledge about the deal as it was being negotiated directly by the prime minister," he claimed. Gandhi also linked the recent removal of the CBI director to the Rafale deal, claiming that the official wanted to investigate it. He also accused the Modi government of protecting fugitive businessmen such as Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi and Lalit Modi and wondered "why every wrongdoer is a Modi". Gandhi claimed that Mallya had met Finance Minister Arun Jaitley before fleeing the country. "Shame on you," he said. At the rally, BJP veteran and former Uttarakhand chief minister Bhuvan Chandra Khanduri's son Manish Khanduri joined the Congress in the presence of Gandhi. The Congress president also mocked the Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana announced by the Modi government for farmers, saying the hype was big but the amount being given was paltry. He said he could not understand why those sitting on the treasury benches in Parliament clapped for five long minutes at an announcement made by Piyush Goyal while tabling the interim budget. "I asked (Congress leader) Mallikarjun Kharge and was told that farmers were going to be given a dole of Rs 3.5per day," he said. Gandhi claimed that the Congress, which had emerged victorious in the Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan Assembly polls promising farm loan waiver, had fulfilled the promise within days of coming to power, whereas the loan waiver promised by Modi to the farmers of Uttarakhand was still a distant dream. The Congress chief said if elected to power, his party would introduce a scheme of guaranteed minimum income for the poor, which will go straight into their bank accounts. He added that everyone earning below a certain level would be given a guaranteed minimum income. The seven-phased Lok Sabha polls will be held from April 11 to May 19 and the counting of votes will be taken up on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath Saturday said if party colleague Digvijaya Singh wants to contest upcoming Lok Sabha polls, he should choose the "toughest seat" in the state. While Nath did not mention any seat in particular, he said there were "2-3-4 seats" in MP which the Congress had not won in the past "30-35" years. Singh, a former chief minister and multiple times Lok Sabha MP, is currently a Rajya Sabha member. "I have requested Digvijaya Singh that if he wants to contest Lok Sabha polls, then he should do so from the toughest seat. There are 2-3-4 seats from where we have not won elections since the last 30-35 years," Nath told reporters here. Congress functionaries said he may have been referring to Bhopal and Indore Lok Sabha seats, both of which have been held by the BJP since 1989. Congress sources said Nath is keen that Singh contest from Bhopal. Former President late Shankar Dayal Sharma was the last Congress winner from the seat in the 1984 general elections. Nath, in reply to a query, however, said it was for Singh to decide from where he wants to contest. He also added that the Congress would announce Lok Sabha candidates from the state in the next three-four days. Nath arrived in Chhindwara on a two-day visit to address 11 rallies, with his son Nakul Nath, in all likelihood, being the Congress' Lok Sabha candidate. Nath, who is a nine-time MP from Chhindwara, is fighting an Assembly bypoll from here scheduled for April 23. Nath has to get elected to the MP Assembly in order to continue as chief minister. The Chhindwara Assembly seat was vacated by Dipak Saxena, who had won it in the 2018 state polls, so that Nath could get an entry into the 230-member House. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A man was Saturday held by Income Tax department officials allegedly with Rs 29.5 lakh cash in Madhya Pradesh's Indore. The man, who was held near Srivardhan Complex on RNT road, is allegedly part of an inter-state hawala network with links to Mumbai and Surat in neighbouring Gujarat, an IT official said. The IT action comes at a time when the state is gearing up for April-May Lok Sabha polls and the model code of conduct is in place. IT teams are working on leads, he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission, which had been battling problems of inadequate space and lack of staff, will start working from a new location and in full strength within four months, the state government told the Bombay High Court. The submission was made last week by state Advocate General (AG) Ashutosh Kumbhakoni before a bench of Justices B R Gavai and N J Jamadar. The bench was hearing a writ petition and a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in 2012 and 2013, respectively, drawing the court's attention to the inadequate funds and infrastructure provided by the government for Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission (MSHRC). On a previous hearing on the above pleas, another bench of the high court had observed that despite recording increasing instances of human rights violations and unsolved custodial deaths in the state, the Maharashtra government probably "did not care about the human rights commission", for it did not show any will to extend even basic facilities to the body. The court had directed the state to allot a new office space, appoint new staff members and regularise existing staff of the Commission at the earliest. In the hearing held on March 7, Kumbhakoni told the bench that the state had decided to rent a 5,200 sq ft space in South Mumbai to house the new office premises of the Commission. He told the bench that the state will pay the rent on behalf of the Commission and that the leave and licence agreement, renovation of the place and such formalities will be completed within the next four months, following which the Commission can shift to the new place. The AG also told the court that in compliance with its previous order, appointments to the posts of secretary and superintendent of police of the Commission had already been made. The chairperson of the Commission will be appointed soon, he said. Kumbhakoni said the state was already looking at regularising some existing staff members who have been working on an ad hoc basis for the human rights body for several years. The bench directed the state to complete such regularisation process and fill existing vacancies at the Commission within the next three months. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pankaj Kumar replaces P Ramnath, who led Sterlite Copper for eight years. Sterlite Copper, which operates a 400,000-tonne-per-year smelter in Thoothukudi, was forced to shut its plant by Tamil Nadu in May 2017, and is estimated to have lost more than USD 200 million since. (Photo: File) New Delhi: Vedanta Ltd on Friday named metals industry veteran Pankaj Kumar as Sterlite Copper chief executive, amid struggles to reopen its smelter in Tamil Nadu that was shut last May after police killed 13 demonstrators protesting against the plant. Sterlite Copper, which operates a 400,000-tonne-per-year smelter in Thoothukudi, was forced to shut its plant by Tamil Nadu in May 2017, and is estimated to have lost more than USD 200 million since. Kumar replaces P Ramnath, who led Sterlite for eight years. Under Ramnath, the smelter was ordered shut at least twice, including for an alleged gas leak in 2013. Local residents and environmental activists have staged protests against the plant over allegations of pollution as well as the earlier gas leak. Vedanta says the claims of pollution are false, without any factual basis. It also denied being the source of the gas leak. The chief executive replacement comes amid a drawn-out legal battle over the smelter that could be complicated further by the national elections that start on April 11. The two main political parties in Tamil Nadu are against reopening the smelter, increasing the likelihood that the shutdown will continue. Vedanta won a judgment in December from the National Green Tribunal that would have cleared the way to reopen the smelter, but the Supreme Court ruled in February that the environmental court did not have jurisdiction over the smelter. "My tenure as the CEO has been an eventful journey, and as is the case with any journey, there have been numerous ups and downs," Ramnath, who will continue as an advisor to the company, said in a statement. Kumar, who will also oversee operations at Vedanta's Malco Energy Limited and Fujairah Gold, has worked at Hindustan Zinc, Tata Steel and Adani Ports, in a career stretching over 29 years. Kumar was also chief operating officer at Sterlite Copper in the past, the company said. Oscar winner Russell Crowe, director Taika Waititi and veteran actor Sam Neill are among the prominent film personalities from New Zealand who have expressed shock and anguish over the killings of scores of people in the Christchurch terror attack. At least 49 worshippers were killed in attacks on the Al Noor Mosque in central Christchurch and the Linwood Mosque in the city's suburb, seen as one of the worst attacks on Muslims in that country. Waititi, best known for directing films such as "Thor: Ragnarok" and "Hunt for The Wilderpeople", took to Twitter to extend support to the grieving community. "My heart is broken. My country is weeping and so am I. I am dying knowing that this kind of hatred can happen in my homeland. All my love goes out to Christchurch, the victims, the families, the Muslim community, and all who have chosen our islands as their home. This is not us," he wrote. Crowe, the Best Actor Oscar winner of Ridley Scott's "Gladiator", described the incident as "senseless" and "pointless". "My heart breaks for all the families involved, and for the beautiful people of New Zealand to whose hearts this pain will attach, for a long time. Kia Kaha," the actor tweeted. Neill, who headlined Steven Spielberg's original "Jurrasic Park" films, wrote on Twitter, "This beyond grotesque horrific white supremacist terrorist crime in OUR, YOUR little country. With love and heartbreak to the Muslim community of Aotearoa, we are with you. You are us. We are all NewZealanders. #TheyAreUs Kia kaha. We weep together." "True Blood" star Anna Paquin condoled the deaths of many innocent civilians, saying her "heart is broken". Karl Urban, the star of "Star Trek" films and "Thor: Ragnarok", said he is feeling "disgusted" by the attack. "Shocked, saddened and disgusted at this abhorrent terrorist attacking unfolding in Christchurch NZ . My heart , thoughts and prayers go out to all families affected," he tweeted. Actor Lucy Lawless, best known for starring in the series "Spartacus", said the incident has put the country on edge. "Don't let the haters win. Reach out to Muslim Kiwis. Extend a hand. Tell them you feel deeply pained by what happened and that you will be no part of this hatred. They came traumatized, looking for safety. Give them love. Please!" she wrote. The gunman, 28-year-old Australian Brenton Tarrant, has been arrested and charged with murder. According to reports, he live-streamed himself via a head-mounted camera online, firing at worshippers inside the Al Noor mosque. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The white supremacist suspected in the mosque shootings that left at least 49 people dead in New Zealand had travelled to the Balkans in the past three years, where he toured historic sites and apparently studied battles between Christians and the Ottoman empire. Authorities in Bulgaria, Turkey and Croatia have confirmed that Brenton Tarrant, 28, had been to their countries in 2016-2018. Hungarian counterterrorism authorities also suggested that Tarrant had visited but revealed no other information, and local media in Bosnia reported a 2017 trip there. While the details of Tarrant's travels are sketchy, authorities in those countries said they are investigating his movements and any contacts he might have had with local people. During his unprecedented, live-streamed shooting spree Friday in Christchurch, Tarrant exposed his apparent fascination with the religious conflicts in Europe and the Balkans a volatile region that has been the site of some of Europe's most violent clashes. Tarrant's soundtrack as he drove to the Christchurch mosque included a nationalist Serb song from the 1992-95 Bosnian war that tore apart Yugoslavia. The song glorifies Serbian fighters and former Bosnian Serb political leader Radovan Karadzic the man jailed at the United Nations war crimes tribunal in The Hague for genocide and other war crimes against Bosnian Muslims. Tarrant's rifles contained the names of legendary Serbs and Montenegrins who fought against the 500-year-rule of the Muslim Ottomans in the Balkans, written in the Cyrillic alphabet used by the two Orthodox Christian nations. In a 74-page manifesto that he posted on social media, Tarrant said he was a white supremacist who was out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims. While Serbia and Bosnia have not confirmed that Tarrant had visited, police in neighbouring Croatia issued a brief statement Saturday saying he was in the country in December 2016 and January 2017. It was not known if his stay was continuous. Croatia's 24 sata (24 hours) site said Tarrant left Croatia by plane from the capital Zagreb on January 18, 2017, after visiting the Adriatic coastal cities of Porec, Zadar, Sibenik and Dubrovnik, where he mostly stayed in hostels. "Until that moment yesterday (in New Zealand), that person was not in the focus of our institutions," Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic told reporters Saturday, according to the official HINA agency. In Bosnia, the local Klix.ba portal reported that Tarrant arrived in that country from Montenegro in early January 2017. Bulgaria's chief prosecutor, Sotir Tsatsarov, said Friday that Tarrant last year rented a car and toured more than a dozen cities, visiting historic sites from November 9 to November 15. He was mainly interested in the battles between Christians and the Ottoman army, the prosecutor said. The Interior Ministry said Bulgaria is coordinating with counterterrorism teams from various countries, including the United States, over Tarrant. An investigation has been launched into whether he had contacts with local citizens, authorities said. Turkey is also investigating Tarrant's movements during his two reported visits to the country that straddles Europe and Asia and who had three citizens injured in Friday's slaughter. State broadcaster TRT says Tarrant visited Turkey twice in 2016 on March 17-20 and from Sept. 13 to Oct. 25. The station released a security camera image of him arriving at Istanbul's Ataturk Airport. Hungary's Counter-Terrorism Center suggested in an email to The Associated Press that he also visited there, saying they are cooperating with other countries to "fully examine the circumstances of (Tarrant's) Hungarian trip and stay." "The details and phases of this process for understandable reasons are not public," the center said. In Bosnia, many residents said the massacre in New Zealand and Tarrant's mention of Karadzic, who has been convicted of genocide, have brought back their own horrific memories of the Bosnian war, which killed more than 100,000 people. "This (attack) is more proof that Karadzic's ideology is a motive for killings and terrorism," said Adel Sabanovic, a Muslim from the Bosnian capital of Sarajevo and a survivor of the 1995 Srebrenica massacre in which Bosnian Serb troops killed some 8,000 Muslim boys and men. "It must be condemned in strongest possible terms." A YouTube video for the song that Tarrant played in his car on the way to gunning people down at the mosque in Christchurch shows emaciated Muslim prisoners in Serb-run detention camps during the war. "Beware Ustashas and Turks," says the song, using wartime, derogatory terms for Bosnian Croats and Bosnian Muslims used by Serb nationalists. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said the New Zealand shooting is "a terrible crime conducted by a psychopath." He criticised foreign and domestic media for somehow implying that Serbs should be blamed for the crime because of the gunman's "taste for music. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) New Zealand's stricken residents reached out to Muslims in their neighbourhoods and around the country on Saturday, with a fierce determination to show kindness to a community in pain as a 28-year-old white supremacist stood silently before a judge, accused in mass shootings at two mosques that left 49 people dead. Brenton Harrison Tarrant appeared in court amid strict security, shackled and wearing all-white prison garb, and showed no emotion when the judge read him one murder charge. The judge said "it was reasonable to assume" more such charges would follow. Tarrant, who posted an anti-immigrant manifesto online and apparently used a helmet-mounted camera to broadcast live video of the slaughter in the city of Christchurch, appeared to make a hand sign, similar to an OK sign, that is sometimes associated with white nationalists. The massacre during Friday prayers prompted a heartfelt response from Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who pronounced it "one of New Zealand's darkest days" and said the shooter, an Australian native, had chosen to strike in New Zealand "because we represent diversity, kindness, compassion." Her fellow countrymen seemed to want to prove her right by volunteering acts of kindness. Some offered rides to the grocery store or volunteered to walk with their Muslim neighbours if they felt unsafe. In online forums, people discussed Muslim food restrictions as they prepared to drop off meals for those affected. "Love always wins over hate. Lots of love for our Muslim brothers" read a handwritten card on a wall of flowers in a historic part of the city that stretched a full block. Still, Muslims were advised to stay away from mosques while the nation's security alert remained at the second-highest level a day after the deadliest shooting in modern New Zealand history. Ardern said 39 survivors remained hospitalised Saturday with 11 critically wounded. But updates were slow to come, and many families were still waiting for of their missing loved ones. Outside one of the two mosques, 32-year-old Ash Mohammed pushed through police barricades in hopes of finding out what happened to his father and two brothers, whose cellphones rang unanswered. An officer stopped him. "We just want to know if they are dead or alive," Mohammed told the officer. Hungry for any news, families and friends of the victims gathered at the city's Hagley College, near the hospital. They included Asif Shaikh, 44, who said he was among more than 100 people at the Al Noor mosque when the attacker came in. He said he survived by played dead, but was desperate to know what happened to his friends who were there with him. "It's been 36 hours, I haven't heard anything about them," he said. Nearby, Akhtar Khokhur leaned on the shoulders of her friend and cried as she held up her cellphone with an image of her husband. "I still don't know where he is," she said. Khokhur, 58, and husband Mehaboobbhai Khokhur, 65, had travelled from India to spend time with their son Imran, their first visit in the eight years since he moved to New Zealand. The couple was due to fly out Sunday. Imran had dropped off his father, an electrical engineer, at the Al Noor mosque on Friday and was looking for a parking space when the shooting began. They have not heard from him since. The gunman had posted a jumbled, 74-page manifesto on social media in which he identified himself as an Australian and white supremacist who was out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims. He livestreamed 17 minutes of the rampage at Al Noor mosque, where, armed with at least two assault rifles and a shotgun, he sprayed worshippers with bullets, killing at least 41 people. More people were killed in an attack on a second mosque a short time later. Facebook, Twitter and Google scrambled to take down the gunman's video, which was widely available on social media for hours after the bloodbath. The second attack took place at the Linwood mosque about 5 kilometers (3 miles) away. The video showed the killer was carrying a shotgun and two fully automatic military assault rifles, with an extra magazine taped to one of the weapons so that he could reload quickly. He also had more assault weapons in the trunk of his car, along with what appeared to be explosives. Two other armed suspects were taken into custody Friday while police tried to determine what role, if any, they played in the cold-blooded attack that stunned New Zealand, a country so peaceful that police officers rarely carry guns. Tarrant's relatives in the Australian town of Grafton, in New South Wales, contacted police after learning of the shooting and were helping with the investigation, local authorities said. Tarrant has spent little time in Australia in the past four years and only had minor traffic infractions on his record. Police Commissioner Mike Bush confirmed Tarrant was involved in both shootings but stopped short of saying he was the sole gunman. During the Saturday morning hearing, a man who was not in court was charged with using writings to incite hatred against a race or ethnicity, but it was not clear if his case was related to the mosque attacks. "We appear to primarily be dealing with one primary perpetrator, but we want to make sure that we don't take anything for granted in ensuring New Zealanders' safety," Ardern said. New Zealand, with a population of 5 million, has relatively loose gun laws and an estimated 1.5 million firearms, or roughly one for every three people. But it has one of the lowest gun homicide rates in the world. In 2015, it had just eight. Ardern said Tarrant was a licensed gun owner who bought the five guns used in the crimes legally. "I can tell you one thing right now, our gun laws will change," Ardern said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The National Conference (NC) Saturday asked the Centre not to make it a point of prestige to summon moderate Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq to New Delhi. Party general secretary Ali Muhammad Sagar said that the separatist leader should be questioned in the Valley. "Government should not make it a point of prestige to summon him (Mirwaiz) to New Delhi. He has already affirmed in his response that he is willing to cooperate," Sagar said while addressing a gathering in Shahar-e-Khas locality of Srinagar. "Keeping in view socio-religious disposition, he should be questioned here in Srinagar only," he added. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had Thursday issued fresh summons to Mirwaiz to appear for questioning at the probe agency headquarters in New Delhi on March 18 in connection with a terror financing case. Sagar said the position of Mirwaiz is of immense socio-religious importance and the "injudicious approach of humiliation and intimidation will hurt the sentiments of his followers". "The post of Mirwaiz is highly venerated by the people of Kashmir. Notwithstanding his politics, his family has played a pivotal role in the socio-political emancipation of the people of Kashmir," Sagar said. "He is a scholarly person, holding a Phd degree and is well respected in the socio-religious circles of the state," the NC general secretary added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The opposition has scored a self-goal by asking for proof of damage following air strike on Balakot terror camp, Finance Minister said Saturday. The air strike and surgical strike carried out by the armed forces should not be part of Lok Sabha election campaign, he said at an India TV event here. "I fully agree with the Election Commission that images of martyrs should not be used on political posters," he said. Citing example of 1971 war, he said, the entire opposition stood by the ruling dispensation, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, leader of Jan Sangh, defended the government on every forum. However, the finance minister said, some of the opposition members accused Prime Minister of politicising the Pulwama and Balakot incidents. Statements made by 21 opposition parties hurt India's interest and gave handle to Pakistan to discredit the country, he added. ALSO READ: Why Balakot should be kept out of elections "Raising question on the action of armed forces with the view to creating doubts in the mind of countrymen was self-goal or shot themselves in the foot by doing this," Jaitley noted. In contrast to this, he said, when the US attacked Osama bin Laden, no one raised any question on the operation conducted by their armed forces and demanded the proof. Asked about BJP leader B S Yeddyurappa's attempt to politicise the action taken by the armed forces, Jaitley said, it was wrong on his part to do so and the party has condemned it. ALSO READ: Building on Balakot The valour of armed forces should not be made a political issue, he said, adding the armed forces have to be kept at arm's length from domestic On the government's message to Pakistan, the finance minister said, "if you promote terrorism, you have to pay such a heavy price that you will find terrorism unaffordable...the trend has been set now". Taking a dig at Congress president Rahul Gandhi, he said some people either need to learn more and if they don't do that then must realise that they are unfit for public discourse. on Saturday claimed that it shot down a "spying" Indian quadcopter along the Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor claimed that the quadcopter had intruded some 150 metres inside Pakistan side of the LoC. " troops shot down an Indian spying quadcopter in Rakhchikri Sector along The quadcopter had come 150 meters inside Pakistan, he tweeted. The report came amidst heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pulwama terror attack by a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed on February 14. Amid mounting outrage in India over the Pulwama terror attack, the Indian Air Force carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured Indian pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1. On March 4, a fighter jet of the Indian Air Force shot down a Pakistani military drone in Bikaner sector of the Indo-Pak border using an air-to-air missile. Another Pakistani drone was shot down by India on February 27 along Indo-Pak border in Kutch in Gujarat. Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood offered prayers at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah in Rajasthan on Saturday, where the 807th Urs festival is currently underway. The Urs is an annual festival held at the dargah to commemorate the death anniversary of Sufi saint Moinuddin Chishti. Mahmood presented the traditional chadar on behalf of the people and the Pakistan government, a statement by the Pakistan High Commission said. The high commissioner said Sufi saints like Khwaja Ghareeb Nawaz, Hazrat Baba Farid and Nizamuddin Auliya formed an immutable and eternal bond between the peoples of Pakistan and India, the statement said. Mahmood expressed the hope that the message and illustrious example of these Sufi saints would continue to serve as a guiding light in tackling present-day challenges and also help the two countries develop a relationship based on better mutual understanding, it added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) If Pakistan was sincere in tackling terror, then it should at least hand over to India Dawood Ibrahim, Sayeed Salahudeen and other terrorists who are Indian citizens and residing in that country, government sources said Saturday. They said Pakistan has failed to take any credible action against Jaish-e-Mohammed and other terror groups even after the dastardly Pulwama attack. If Pakistan really wants to send a message that it was serious about addressing India's concerns over terrorism, then it should hand over Dawood, Salahudeen and other terrorists who are Indians, the sources said. Referring to actions by Pakistan such as holding ceratin terrorists in preventive custody, the sources said India considered them to be cosmetic. Cosmetic action will not cut any ice. India has been asking Pakistan to hand over Dawood, Salahudeen and several other terrorists who are wanted in India in connection with a series of terror attacks. The sources said India has shared various key details such as coordinates of terror groups operating from Pakistan soil to Islamabad which can be verified by a third country. After the Pulwama terror attack, India has mounted a diplomatic offensive to corner Pakistan internationally on the issue of terrorism. India has been pressing for concrete and verifiable action by Pakistan against terror groups operating from Pakistani soil. Tension between the two nuclear-armed neighbours escalated after the February 14 Pulwama terror attack and subsequent aerial strike by India on a training camp of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Balakot on February 26. Pakistan retaliated the strike next day by unsuccessfully attempting to target Indian military installations. The JeM claimed responsibility for the Pulwama attack. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam Saturday strongly condemned the terror attack at two mosques in New Zealand, and expressed his sympathies with the families of the dead. At least 49 worshippers were killed in attacks on the Al Noor Mosque in central Christchurch and the Linwood Mosque in the city's suburb, seen as one of the worst attacks on Muslims in that country. An Indian-origin man was injured and another has been missing since the Friday attacks. Taking to Twitter, Panneerselvam expressed 'shock' over the 'brutal' attack. "The shooting at the mosques in Christchurch is shocking and gives great pain. I strongly condemn the terror attack on innocent civilians," he said in the tweet posted in Tamil. Panneerselvam, also Coordinator of the ruling AIADMK, expressed his sympathies with the families of those killed in "this brutal incident," and condoled the deaths. He also prayed for the well-being of the injured and hoped normalcy returned in that country. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The parents of an Indian-origin software engineer who went missing after the shooting during Friday prayers at a mosque in Christchurch in New Zealand are still clueless about his whereabouts even after a day. At least 49 worshippers were killed in attacks on the Al Noor Mosque in central Christchurch and the Linwood Mosque in the city's suburb, seen as one of the worst attacks on Muslims in that country. The engineer, Farhaj Ahsan, has been working in New Zealand for the past seven years. He is married and has two children. "We are yet to get information about my son. We are concerned about him," Ahsan's mother Fatima told PTI Saturday. Hyderabad MP and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi tweeted on Friday, "Farhaj Ahsan, a person of Indian origin, was also reported to have gone to the same mosque and is currently missing. His family is in Hyderabad, I request immediate assistance to his family as well." Meanwhile, Ahmed Iqbal Jahangir, another Indian from Hyderabad, who was shot at in the same incident is recovering in hospital in New Zealand, his brother Khursheed Jahangir said. "I thank the government for helping me get a visa to New Zealand. I am leaving today to see my brother. He is out of danger and recovering," Khursheed said. Iqbal Jahangir was shot in the chest, he said. According to unofficial reports, nine Indians are missing since the attack, a source said that due to certain processes involved, official confirmation about Indian casualties may take a while to come in. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Meanwhile, India will continue pushing for the listing of Masood Azhar as global terrorist by the world body. New Delhi: Pakistan must hand over wanted criminals Dawood Ibrahim and Sayeed Salahudeen to India, sources said adding that verifiable evidence has been shared with Islamabad. "New Delhi knows there are a number of Indians in Pakistan. Islamabad should hand over these Indians who are in our wanted list and in the international terror list such as Dawood Ibrahim and Sayeed Salahudeen. Very specific details were shared (with them) and if Pakistan thinks India can't verify, it can get international verification done," sources stated. "Changing boards, putting people under detention is all cosmetic," sources further said. Meanwhile, undeterred by the recent setback at the UN Security Council (UNSC), India will continue pushing for the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) chief Masood Azhar as an international terrorist by the world body. "India is disappointed with China. India is still working with members of the sanction committee. There is no bigger statement, half of UNSC co-sponsors the proposal. (China's) hold is not a block. India is optimistic," sources said on Saturday. The USA, UK and France moved a proposal in the UNSC to list UN-proscribed group JeM's chief as a global terrorist following the JeM-perpetrated Pulwama terror attack which claimed the lives of over 40 CRPF personnel. China, for the fourth time, used a technical hold on the proposal on March 13, a move which has been widely slammed. "Terrorism is non-negotiable for India. We have the strong support of 14 members (out of 15 at the UNSC). India will show patience...We are cautiously optimistic that Azhar will be listed," sources mentioned. "China also knows that terrorism is a challenge. They know it operates from Pakistan," said the sources adding, "There are certain issues China has to resolve with Pakistan. China has adequate information that there are groups in Pakistan working against China." "India will show patience," the sources reinforced. "Pakistan is spending diplomatic capital in defending the indefensible. Pakistan's action is cosmetic," sources added. Speaking on the United States' support for India, the sources said: "The USA is supportive of India. They have assured that Pakistan will take action. India also raised concerns with the United States on the arms used of which the USA took note. The US also appreciates India for sharing its position in real time. There are no takers in the US for Pakistan's narrative that India is posing a threat." The PDP and the National Conference Saturday condemned the killing of a woman special police officer (SPO) by militants at her home in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir. PDP president and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti said the vicious cycle of death and destruction seems to have no end in the Valley. "I strongly condemn this brutal act of terror. My condolences to the family. This vicious cycle of death and destruction seems to have no end," she wrote on Twitter. NC vice president Omar Abdullah also condemned the killing of the woman SPO. "A lady special police officer (SPO) was shot & killed outside her home in South Kashmir earlier today. I condemn this act of terror & extend my condolences to her family & all her J&K police colleagues," he tweeted. Militants shot SPO Khushboo Jan from close range at her home at Vehil in Shopian district earlier this afternoon, a police official said. She was shifted to a nearby hospital where she succumbed, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Saturday said there were "murmurs" of doubt among people on whether the post-Pulwama attack airstrike on February 26 on a Jaish-e-Mohammed camp in Pakistan had a "political purpose". In an interview to PTI, the Maratha strongman said cross-border surgical strikes took place every year, adding that had he been the defence minister now, he would not have milked the issue for political benefits, but would only have worked in the interest of the nation. Pawar said being a former defence minister, he was aware of the capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force, adding that no one could challenge their might. "However, this government has lost credibility in the eyes of the public at large. That is why there are murmurs among the people whether it (the airstrike after the February 14 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama) was for a political purpose or not, whether certain actions were taken just to regain credibility," he claimed. "Such surgical attacks have happened many times. Every year there is something at the India-Pakistan border. If something happens from their side, our forces respond effectively. It has not just happened once or twice, but so many instances," he said. Stating that he would not have made noise immediately after such a military action to show the world how strong his forces were, Pawar said, "I would have kept mum and taught a lesson to anyone trying to create a problem for my nation. However, my approach would not have been for political exploitation, but only to protect the interest of the nation." Asked if according to him, Rahul Gandhi would be an effective prime ministerial candidate, the Rajya Sabha MP said the Congress chief himself had not staked claim to the post in case the opposition "mahagathbandhan" (grand alliance) won a majority in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. Stating that Gandhi's mission was in the larger interest of the nation, which was to oust the current Bharatiya Janata Party-led government, the former Maharashtra chief minister asserted that all the parties in the grand alliance were ready to help and cooperate towards that aim. Asked about his own prime ministerial ambitions, he said the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) would contest hardly 25 seats in the polls starting April 11. "I can coordinate but I do not expect that with a number of 25 or 26 (Lok Sabha seats), one can ultimately take up such a major responsibility. But my party's efforts will definitely be to bring together like-minded forces and see that the BJP and their friends do not get the requisite numbers," Pawar added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Police were probing in addition to the political angle, if a possible business rivalry could have led to the murder of former minister Y S Vivekananda Reddy, as the SIT commenced its investigation to unravel the mystery behind the incident, police sources said Saturday. "There has been a running dispute for the past few months over a mining business in SPS Nellore district. Vivekananda was said to be supporting one side in the dispute. Whether this could have caused the murder is not clear yet, but we are probing it as well," the police officer, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said. Also, a possible rift within the family is another angle on which the probe is focused on, according to police sources. Police have picked up Yerra Gangi Reddy, a follower of Vivekananda,for questioning in relation to the mining dispute. The former ministers household staff, including his driver and cook, were also being questioned for possible clues in the case, police sources said. Meanwhile, the Special Investigation Team (SIT), under the supervision of Additional Director General of Police Amit Garg, has launched a full-scale probe to unravel the mystery behind the incident. While the YSR Congress wanted the CBI to investigate, the state government has constituted a SIT to probe the case. With hardly a month to go for the April 11 Lok Sabha and State Assembly polls, Vivekananda Reddy, younger brother of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister M Y S Rajasekhara Reddy, was found dead at his house in Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh on Friday. Police initially registered a case under Section 174 Cr PC (unnatural death) when Reddy's body was found by his staff early in the morning. After post-mortem in the local government hospital, police confirmed the case was altered to Section 302 IPC that relates to murder. The incident sparked a political slugfest between the opposition YSR Congress and the ruling Telugu Desam Party with both trading allegations holding each other responsible for the killing of the 68-year-old leader. A note purportedly written by Vivekananda alleging that his driver "beat me up badly" has also become a subject of name-calling between the ruling Telugu Desam Party and YSRC. The note has been sent for forensic examination to establish the veracity, police said. While YSRC chief Y S Jaganmohan Reddy, nephew of the slain leader, wanted a CBI inquiry, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu found fault with the slain leader's family for "destroying evidence" and ruled out a probe by the central agency. "This is precisely the reason why we are strongly demanding a CBI inquiry into the case. If the TDP has nothing to hide, why is it shying away from a CBI probe," YSRC senior leader and former minister Dharmana Prasada Rao asked. TDP MP Kanakamedala Ravindra Kumar, however, brushed aside the demand and accused the YSRC of insulting the state polices integrity. "Who wiped out the basic evidence in the case at the scene of offence, and why? This only makes it clear that a conspiracy was behind the heinous crime," Kumar said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Witnesses say at least one person is dead after protests over local elections turned violent in Congo's capital. Members of President Felix Tshisekedi's Union for Democracy and Social Progress took to the streets of Kinshasa after the party failed to win any senate seats from Kinshasa in the regional assembly. Police fired tear gas to put down demonstrations Friday night. The party was Congo's longtime opposition under former President Joseph Kabila. The party got a boost when its candidate Felix Tshisekedi won the December presidential election. While voters elect regional deputies, senators are then chosen by the deputies. Militant members of the party are now accused of attacking homes and vehicles belonging to some of the regional deputies who chose the senators. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Punjab & Sind Bank (PSB) has hiked its marginal cost of funds based lending rate (MCLR) by 0.05 per cent for six-month tenor and lowered interest on three-year tenor by 0.05 per cent. "Our bank has reviewed the marginal cost of fund based lending rate (MCLR) for different tenors," PSB said in a regulatory filing. The bank said these rates are effective from March 16, 2019. Punjab & Sind Bank (PSB) has hiked MCLR on six-month duration loan to 8.70 per cent. It has also lowered interest on three-year tenors by 0.05 per cent to 8.85 per cent. Interest on overnight, one-month, three months and one-year tenors remain unchanged at 8.30, 8.40 per cent, 8.55 per cent and 8.85 per cent, respectively. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Actor Ralph Fiennes has revealed he initially planned to turn down playing Voldemort because he was not aware about the "Harry Potter" saga. The 56-year-old actor said he was ''ignorant'' about J K Rowling's wizarding franchise when he was first offered the role of the Dark Lord in second movie "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" in 2005. ''The truth is I was actually ignorant about the films and the books. I was approached by the production. Mike Newell was directing the film that they wanted me to be in... the first time Voldemort was going to appear physically. ''Out of ignorance I just sort of thought, this isn't for me... Quite stupidly I resisted, I was hesitant. I think the clincher was that my sister Martha - who has three children who were then probably about 12, 10 and 8 - she said, 'What do you mean? You've got to do it!' So then I rewound my thinking," Fiennes said during an appearance on the "The Jonathan Ross Show". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal announced Saturday that former deputy speaker of Lok Sabha Charanjit Singh Atwal would be its candidate from Jalandhar (SC) seat. Atwal, a Dalit face, was the former deputy speaker of Lok Sabha during 2004-2009. He was a two-time MP from Phillaur constituency. He has also remained speaker of the Punjab Legislative Assembly twice. Earlier, the Akali Dal had fielded Jagir Kaur from Khadoor Sahib seat. Badal hit out at Taksali leaders, alleging that Ranjit Singh Brahmpura would forfeit his security deposit from his own constituency if he dared to enter into the poll fray from Khadoor Sahib. He dared all the three expelled Akali leaders Brahmpura, Rattan Singh Ajnala and Sewa Singh Sekhwan to test their "political clout" by contesting the Lok Sabha polls. "The so-called Taksali leaders are trying to befool people of Punjab by mouthing lies about Panthic issues as well as themselves," he alleged. "All desperate and rejected leaders from various political outfits have gathered and declared themselves as Taksalis, while none of them have any Taksali background. By which stretch of imagination can you call Birdevinder Singh or General JJ Singh as Taksali," Badal asked. The SAD chief exuded confidence that the SAD-BJP would be wining all the 13 seats in Punjab, while the Congress would finish at zero. Replying to a question on Kartarpur Sahib corridor, he said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had fulfilled a long-standing demand of the Sikh community with the decision of establishing the passage. "I hope Pakistan would respect the sentiments of the Sikh Qaum," Badal said, adding that the Indian government had sought permission for 5,000 pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Sahib Kartarpur daily. However, Pakistan was putting administrative hurdles in a hassle-free access to Kartarpur Sahib," Badal said. Replying to a query on the SAD-BJP's performance in the Punjab Assembly polls in 2017, the SAD president said they did not perform badly. "The Congress got 38 per cent vote share in Punjab, we got 31 per cent and the AAP finished at just 21 per cent, lagging far behind us as much as by 7 per cent vote share, which means around 2.50 lakh more votes were polled to the SAD-BJP than the AAP. We also lost 15-20 seats just with the margin of 1,500 votes," he said. The seven-phased Lok Sabha polls will be held from April 11 to May 19 and the counting of votes will be taken up on May 23. Punjab will go to polls in single phase on May 19. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal said on Saturday that his party would abide by the diktat of Akal Takht on seeking support from Dera Sacha Sauda followers in the Lok Sabha election. Akal Takht, the primary seat of Sikh religious authority, had ex-communicated the Sirsa-based Dera Sacha Sauda in an alleged blasphemy case of 2007. Talking to reporters here, Badal said, "We will follow in letter and spirit the edict of Sri Akal Takht Sahib regarding the Dera Sacha Saud on this matter." He was answering queries about Punjab Congress chief Sunil Jakhar's challenge to him to clarify his stand on the matter. Jakhar had declared that the Congress would not seek support from the Dera Sacha Sauda followers. Punjab has 13 parliamentary seats and it will go to polls in a single phase on May 19. On Thursday's Indo-Pak meeting on Katrapur Sahib corridor, Badal accused Pakistan of creating "hurdles intentionally". Asking Pakistan not to put restrictions and conditions on the entry of pilgrims, the former Punjab deputy chief minister said Pakistan should follow liberal attitude shown by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in respecting the Sikh sentiments. "The demand of the government of India for allowing 5,000 pilgrims daily and without any permit or other restrictions should be accepted by Pakistan," he said, adding "let it be a visa-free entry". On completion of two years of the Amarinder Singh-led Congress government in the state, Badal said the country has not seen "such a useless and good-for-nothing" chief minister. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Australia started deploying extra police force at major events and mosques following the Friday's Christchurch terrorist attack in which 49 people were killed. A 28-year-old Australian Brenton Tarrant has been charged for the terror attack on two Christchurch mosques that left 49 dead on Friday. Victoria has been put on high alert as it would be hosting the Formula 1 Grand prix and a community open day in Mosques statewide on the weekend. "You will see a lot more police out and about this weekend," Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam was quoted as saying by the media. Mosques across Victoria have planned a community open day for this Sunday and were keen for them to go ahead, Steendam said while asking people to go and support the Muslim communities, and maintaining vigilance. Authorities across the country are also deploying extra police with the threat level raised to probable'. Australian National Imams Council spokesman Bilal Rauf said that he believed a similar attack to the Christchurch massacre absolutely could happen in Australia. This was a co-ordinated act of terror targeted at Muslims and it could easily happen again, he was quoted as saying by the 'Herald Sun'. "I am concerned it can be repeated in Australia," he said. Senior police officers led by counter terrorism chief Mick Willing met on Friday to assess the threat in Australia and how best to assist their counterparts in New Zealand. According to the National Terrorism Threat Advisory System, this would mean authorities have received credible intelligence that indicates that individuals or groups continue to possess the intent and capability to conduct a terrorist attack in Australia. New South Wales Police also issued a statement assuring Australia's Muslim community that there were no specific threats domestically. However, police have increased patrols and senior officers have also reached out to community and religious leaders across the state to provide support and reassurance, a spokesman of the NSW Police said. NSW Police force will continue to do everything possible to ensure the safety and security of all members of the community and everyone should continue to go about their business without fear, he said. On Friday, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison confirmed that the man was an Australian-born citizen while describing him as an extremist, right-wing, violent terrorist. The shooter Tarrant spent time in NSW city of Grafton, according to NSW Commissioner Michael Fuller. Police said the accused gunman was not known to authorities here and that he left to travel in Asia and Europe. Muslim communities in NSW held prayers in Lakemba Mosque, one of the biggest mosques in the country, on Friday night, after the shooting incident. Tarrant was charged with one count of murder and further charges will be laid. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will travel to the Maldives on a two-day visit beginning Sunday, in the first full-fledged bilateral trip from India to the island nation after the government of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih came to power in November. Announcing the visit, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it is aimed at further strengthening the "close and friendly" relations between the two countries. "India attaches the highest importance to its relationship with the Maldives which is marked by trust, transparency, mutual understanding and sensitivity," the MEA said. In Male, Swaraj will have a bilateral meeting with Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid and delegation-level talks with Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi, Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer, National Planning and Infrastructure Minister Mohamed Aslam, Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Aishath Nahula and Economic Development Minister Fayyaz Ismail. "The ministers will review the entire gamut of bilateral relations and discuss future programme of action," the MEA said. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and a number of senior officials will accompany Swaraj during the trip. Swaraj will also call on President Solih on Monday and Speaker of the Parliament Qasim Ibrahim on Sunday. Minister of Home Affairs Sheikh Imran Abdulla will also call on Swaraj. Officials said it will be the first full-fledged bilateral visit at the political level from India to the Maldives after the new government assumed office. They said Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Maldives in November only to attend Solih's swearing-in ceremony and no substantive discussion had taken place then. Sources said the Maldives was aware of Indian government's limitations due to the election code of conduct and that Swaraj's visit will be to enhance overall ties which came under strain during the presidentship of Abdulla Yameen, who was known to be close to China. Solih had visited India in December last year during which India announced a USD 1.4 billion financial assistance to the island nation. The two countries had also agreed to remain mindful of each other's concerns and aspirations for the stability of the Indian Ocean region and not allow their respective territories to be used for any activity inimical to their interests. Relations between India and the Maldives deteriorated after the then President Abdulla Yameen imposed emergency on February 5 last year. India had criticised his decision and asked his government to restore the credibility of the electoral and political process by releasing political prisoners. The emergency lasted for 45 days. Solih became president in November after he defeated Yameen in presidential elections. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Indian Government has already identified 50 acres of land for the corridor on its side. The two countries had officially played down any differences in their joint statement earlier that said the meeting was cordial. New Delhi: India has realised that Pakistan has a very narrow view that does not reflect its much-publicised and perceived image of generosity towards Indian Sikh pilgrims on the Kartarpur issue, government sources said on Saturday, indicating that the two countries have major differences on working out modalities for movement of pilgrims to visit the historic Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara near the border in Pakistani Punjab. It may be recalled that at a meeting on Thursday at Attari in (Indian) Punjab between Indian and Pakistani official delegations, New Delhi had sought visa-free access from Pakistan for 5,000 pilgrims per day to visit the historic Kartarpur Gurdwara. The meeting had taken place to discuss the opening of a planned corridor for pilgrims between Punjabs Gurdaspur district and Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistani Punjab across the border. But sources said that in response to Indias request for visa-free travel, Pakistan wanted to introduce a permit system for Indian Sikh pilgrims and also impose fees for it. Sources said this showed that Islamabads perceived generosity for Indian Sikh pilgrims was not matched by its attitude shown during these discussions. There are also reports that Pakistan wants much fewerprobably a few hundredpilgrims only to cross over daily for the pilgrimage instead of the number of 5,000 that India had requested. But surprisingly, the two countries had officially played down any differences in their joint statement earlier that said the meeting was cordial. The joint statement had said the two countries held detailed and constructive discussions on various aspects and provisions of the proposed agreement and agreed to work towards expeditiously operationalising the Kartapur Sahib Corridor. The two neighbours have also agreed to hold the next meeting at Wagah (in Pakistani Punjab) on April 2, adding that this would be preceded by a meeting of the technical experts on March 19 at the proposed zero points to finalise the alignment. Both countries had initially proposed different zero points for the border crossing of the Indian Sikh pilgrims and will have to ink an agreement to finalise a common zero point for alignment of the corridor being built by the two sides on their respective territories for the pilgrims. India is already working on creating facilities for the corridor on its side from Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur to the International Border with all modern amenities to facilitate movement of up to 5,000 pilgrims daily who will cross over into Pakistani Punjab. The Indian Government has already identified 50 acres of land for the corridor on its side. The two countries are expected to hammer out an agreement on the modalities that will enable Indian Sikh pilgrims to travel on the special corridor for the pilgrimage to the Gurdwara where Guru Nanak had spent the last years of his life in the first half of the 16th century AD. It may be recalled that Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan had presided over the ground-breaking ceremony on November 28 last year for creation of the corridor from the border to the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistani Punjab that will enable easy and smooth travel to Kartarpur Sahib. At least 13 civilians have died in fresh attacks in Mozambique's volatile northern Cabo Delgado province where Islamists have terrorised villagers in remote communities for more than a year, local sources said Saturday. One of the latest attacks occurred on Thursday evening on Ulo village in Mocimboa da Praia district in which more than 120 houses were destroyed, the sources said. "Two additional attacks were carried out during the early hours of (Friday), on the villages of Nabajo and Maculo, killing a total of 13 villagers," a local resident said. Hardline Islamists have launched several deadly attacks in the Muslim-majority Cabo Delgado province in the past year, stoking unrest just as Maputo pushes ahead with gas exploration efforts. Last month, a Mozambican worker was killed and six others were wounded when two road convoys operated by US gas giant Anadarko came under attack in northern Mozambique. They were the first such attacks by militants targeting gas operators in the area. The jihadists -- reportedly seeking to impose Sharia law in the province -- have terrorised remote communities, killing more than 200 people since October 2017 The Islamists belong to a group originally known as Ahlu Sunnah Wa-Jama -- Arabic for "followers of the prophet" -- but commonly referred to by locals and officials as "Al-Shabaab". It has no known link to the notorious Al-Shahaab group in Somalia. Human Rights Watch has accused security forces of serious human rights violations while cracking down on the insurgency and several journalists have been arrested in the area. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US-backed forces battled Islamic State group fighters Saturday as the holdout jihadists clung onto the last dregs of their crumbling "caliphate" in eastern Syria. For weeks, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces have battled to crush IS fighters holed up in a small riverside hamlet in the village of Baghouz. The makeshift encampment is all that remains of a once-sprawling "caliphate" declared in 2014 over large swaths of Syria and neighbouring Iraq. The SDF and coalition warplanes have rained fire on the enclave since last Sunday, blitzing more than 4,000 IS fighters and family members into surrender. US-backed forces have reduced daytime airstrikes and shelling to allow for more exits from the last jihadist bastion. But AFP journalists at an SDF post inside Baghouz heard sporadic rounds of mortar fire Saturday and an SDF spokesman said clashes were ongoing. "Clashes broke out again last night and have continued since," SDF spokesman Adnan Afrin said. "There have so far been no surrenders (today) and there's no sign they are giving up," the spokesman told AFP. An SDF statement the latest fighting broke out after the Kurd-led force attacked IS positions inside Baghouz. Around 32 jihadists, including at least four senior IS figures, were killed in battle, it said. On Friday, IS launched three suicide attacks outside Baghouz, killing six people among those fleeing the village near the Iraqi border. They were the latest casualties in Syria's devastating civil war as it entered its ninth year with 370,000 dead. "Daesh has proven to demonstrate a reckless disregard for human life and continues to be a global threat," the US-led coalition said late Friday, using an Arabic acronym for IS. "We stand by our SDF partners as they fight to liberate that last Daesh-held territory," it said on Twitter. Die-hard IS fighters have unleased a wave of suicide bombings over the past week to impede the SDF advance. It remains unclear how many fighters and civilians remain inside Baghouz. More than 61,000 people have streamed out of IS-held territory since December, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says, a tenth of them suspected jihadists. The exodus has sparked a humanitarian crisis in Kurdish-run camps for the displaced further north where civilians have been transported. These include the wives and children of alleged foreign jihadists, hundreds of whom are being held by the Kurdish forces. Around 3,000 people arrived at Al-Hol camp from Baghouz over the past two days, pushing the camp's population to over 69,000, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) said Saturday. The UN said most of the new arrivals "show clear signs of distress, fatigue, malnutrition and require some form of medical care or attention". According to the IRC and UN, around 122 people, mainly children, have died en route to the camp or shortly after arriving since December. "There is an urgent requirement for funding to continue health and nutrition interventions in the camp," the UN said. At the height of its brutal rule, IS controlled a stretch of land in Syria and Iraq the size of the United Kingdom. The total capture of the Baghouz camp by the SDF would mark the end of the cross-border "caliphate" it proclaimed more than four years ago. But beyond Baghouz, IS retains a presence in eastern Syria's vast Badia desert and sleeper cells in the northeast. The jihadists have continued to claim deadly attacks in SDF-held territory in recent months. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Telugu Desam Party candidate and a police assistant sub-inspector were injured accidentally Saturday when his two personal security officers fired in the air to disperse YSR Congress workers allegedly attacking him in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, police said. The incident was triggered by a clash in Mantralayam assembly segment in Khaggal village between followers of sitting YSR Congress MLA Balanagi Reddy and P Tikka Reddy, the TDP candidate for the April 11 polls, they said. District Superintendent of Police Fakkeerappa Kaginelli placedTikka Reddy's two personal security officers under suspension for alleged negligence of duty, sources said. Tikka Reddy went to Khaggal, Balanagi Reddy's native village, to hoist the TDP flag as part of his election campaign but the latters supporters allegedly attacked him. "Balanagi Reddys wife and nephew attacked me," Tikka Reddy alleged, adding his PSOs opened fire in the air to quell the mob. In the process, two bullets "misfired," causing an injury on Tikka Reddys leg, police said. A police assistant sub-inspector Venugopal was also injured in the incident. "The gunmen did not follow due diligence while opening fire. There was no imminent threat but our people opened fire in haste," the district SP told PTI. Accordingly, the two armed constables were placed under suspension, he added. Tikka Reddy has been shifted to a private hospital in Hyderabad for treatment. A case has been registered against the two groups over the clash. Assembly polls in Andhra Pradesh will be held simultaneously with the Lok Sabha election. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A woman special police officer (SPO) was shot dead by terrorists at her home in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir Saturday, police said. The ultras shot SPO Khushboo Jan from close range at her home in Vehil in Shopian district Saturday afternoon, a police official said. The official said the SPO was shifted to a nearby hospital where she succumbed to her injuries. Security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a hunt for the assailants, he added. The Peoples Democratic Party and the National Conference condemned the killing. PDP president and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti said the vicious cycle of death and destruction seems to have no end in the Valley. "I strongly condemn this brutal act of terror. My condolences to the family. This vicious cycle of death and destruction seems to have no end," she wrote on Twitter. NC vice president Omar Abdullah tweeted, "A lady special police officer (SPO) was shot & killed outside her home in South Kashmir earlier today. I condemn this act of terror & extend my condolences to her family & all her J&K police colleagues (sic). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A court in Maharashtra's Thane district Saturday disqualified BJP corporator and former mayor Ashok Raul. Shiv Sena candidate Mandar Vichare, who had lost to Raul in the last Thane civic elections held in February 2017, had filed a petition against the latter's victory. Joint Civil Judge S S Indalkar upheld Vichare's petition and set aside Raul's election from Ward 12D of the Thane Municipal Corporation. His order said Vichare would be the corporator from Ward 12D for the rest of the term. Vichare's petition had contended that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader had failed to declare a criminal case in his nomination form. Advocate Munir Ahmed, who appeared for Vichare, told court that Supreme Court directions laid down that non-disclosure of criminal cases will result in disqualification. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Albanian opposition supporters are holding a protest against the government which they accuse of being corrupt and linked to organised crime. Thousands of supporters of the center-right Democratic Party-led opposition have gathered on Saturday in front of Socialist Prime Minister Edi Rama's office to demand his resignation. The opposition, whose lawmakers have relinquished their seats in parliament, declines to dialogue with Rama, asking for a transitory Cabinet without him to prepare early elections. The United States and European Union have warned the opposition against using or inciting violence and to sit down for talks. Recent rallies have turned violent, with police deploying tear gas. Albania hopes to get the EU's approval in June on launching membership negotiations. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Tamil Nadu Congress unit on Saturday urged its national president to contest from the southern state for the April 18 Lok Sabha elections, saying he was first proposed as the next prime minister from here by the DMK. TNCC president K S Alagiri said besides contesting from Amethi in Uttar Pradesh, Gandhi should also select a seat from Tamil Nadu as he cannot be perceived as belonging to just the northern state, but "is seen as an asset of the people of India". Referring to DMK president M K Stalin first proposing Gandhi's name as the next prime minister in the event of the opposition winning the Lok Sabha polls, Alagiri said the secular alliance cobbled up by the DMK leader had the full support of the people. "In this backdrop, on behalf of the state Congress unit and the people, I request Mr to contest from any one of the Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu. I am sure the (DMK-led) Secular Progressive Alliance will extend grand support to this plea," Alagiri said in a statement. He said Gandhi was "acceptable" by people as a leader beyond religion and caste and therefore, cannot be considered as "belonging only to Uttar Pradesh". "He is considered as an asset of the people of India. He enjoys the goodwill of all and has dedicated himself to the cause of unity. While contesting from Amethi in Uttar Pradesh in north, he should also contest from any one of the seats in Tamil Nadu, which is the southern part of the country," he said. ALSO READ: Congress announces 8 candidates for Telangana in Lok Sabha elections Alagiri expressed confidence Gandhi will heed to the plea of the people of the state and select a constituency from Tamil Nadu for himself. By doing so, Gandhi will be seen as a leader "connecting the north and south," and receive grand public support, Alagiri added. The TNCC leader also flayed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for "failing" to keep up his promises on issues, including retrieving black money from foreign havens and doubling farmers' income, and dubbed the AIADMK-led NDA coalition in the state, which includes the BJP, as "opportunistic". TRS president and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao will kick off his campaign for the Lok Sabha polls with a public meeting at Karimnagar on Sunday. Karimnagar has been a stronghold of the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) since the party's formation in 2001. Rao had represented Karimnagar in the Lok Sabha earlier. Rao, the star campaigner for TRS, will address election rallies at various places in the state beginning from Karimnagar, party sources said. Rao's son and TRS working president K T Rama Rao has already addressed a series of party meetings in preparation for the Lok Sabha polls. Claiming that neither the NDA nor the UPA was in a position to come to power on its own, Rama Rao has sought 16 Lok Sabha seats out of total 17 seats (leaving Hyderabad represented by ally AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi) for the TRS to ensure a better deal for Telangana. Observing that every MP will be crucial in government formation at the Centre, Rama Rao had said 17 MPs for TRS and its ally AIMIM would ensure a heavy flow of funds and development projects for Telangana. Dismissing the TRS stance, opposition Congress and BJP had said the TRS (along with AIMIM) had 15 Lok Sabha MPs on its side during 2014-19, but failed to do anything substantial for the southern state. Telangana goes to polls in a single phase on April 11. The process of filing nominations begins on March 18. TRS sources had earlier said the party candidates for the Lok Sabha elections are expected to be announced as the date for filing nominations draws closer. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two persons were arrested near a hotel at Bhayandar in Maharashtra's Thane district Saturday for allegedly possessing 25-kgs of ephedrine drug worth around Rs 3 crore, police said. The accused are identified as Yogesh Shah, 50, and Sadev Jamadar, a senior police officer said, adding that they are residents of Mumbai. The duo have been booked under Narcotic Drug and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and further investigation is underway, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two more persons died of swine flu here in Madhya Pradesh Saturday, taking the toll to 37 in the city since January 1, an official said. The deceased included a 52-year-old woman hailing from Ujjain district and a 40-year-old man, a local resident. They died of swine flu while undergoing treatment at two private hospitals, the health department official said. He said 37 people, out of total 134 tested positive for H1N1 at various hospitals in Indore, have died so far. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India is already extending financial assistance to the Maldives under the government of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. New Delhi: With ties between India and its tiny south-western maritime neighbour Maldives firmly back on track, external affairs minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj will be visiting the archipelago nation on a two-day official visit starting Sunday. India is already extending financial assistance to the Maldives under the government of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Ties between the two neighbours had soured considerably last year during the tenure of then President Abdulla Yameen known for his pro-China policies who was subsequently defeated in the presidential polls there last year. Meanwhile, in a statement on Saturday, the MEA (ministry of external affairs) said Ms Swaraj will be paying a visit to Male in Maldives between 17 and 18 March, 2019, at the invitation of His Excellency Abdulla Shahid, the foreign minister of Maldives. She will be accompanied by foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale and other senior officials. During her visit, Ms Swaraj will review the entire gamut of bilateral relations and discuss future programme of action. The MEA added, EAM will call on the President of the Republic of Maldives, His Excellency Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, on 18 March and the Speaker of Parliament, His Excellency Qasim Ibrahim, on 17 March. The minister of home affairs, Sheikh Imran Abdulla, will call on the EAM on 18 March. India attaches the highest importance to its relationship with the Maldives, which is marked by trust, transparency, mutual understanding, and sensitivity. This visit will further strengthen the close and friendly relations between India and Maldives. The United Nations Assembly (UNEA) has adopted two resolutions piloted by India on single-use plastics and sustainable nitrogen management. According to a statement released by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC), the resolutions were adopted at the fourth session of UNEA which was held in Nairobi from March 11 to 15 on 'Innovative Solutions for Environmental Challenges and Sustainable Production and Consumption'. "The global nitrogen use efficiency is low, resulting in pollution by reactive nitrogen which threatens human health and eco system services, and contributes to climate change and stratospheric ozone depletion," a ministry official said. "Only a small proportion of plastics produced globally is recycled with most of it damaging the and aquatic bio-diversity. Both these are global challenges and the resolutions piloted by India at the UNEA are vital first steps towards addressing these issues and attracting focus of the global community," he said. India also hosted, in the High-Level Segment of UNEA, a session on 'Global Partnerships: Key to Unlocking Resource Efficiency and Inclusive Green Economies' which was attended by representatives of member states, civil society organizations, private sector bodies, leading financial institutions and countries like Germany, Brazil and South Africa. The Indian delegation also participated in the panel discussion on 'Need for Additional Commitments of Public Finance and ways to Maximize Mobilization of Climate Finance', the statement said. "It was highlighted that climate finance is an important lever for climate action related to both mitigation and adaption in developing countries. The contributions to climate finance need to be in consonance with the basic principles of common but differentiated responsibility and respective capabilities (CBDR-RC). "Climate finance is more of an obligation of the developed countries based on their historical emissions. The availability of sufficient, additional and predictable climate finance is a key for action. India has been initiating domestic climate actions, both related to climate change mitigation and adaptation, primarily through its own financial resources. There is a sense of urgency for financial support to developing countries, which have not been so responsible for these global environmental concerns," the statement added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An advocate moved court on Saturday seeking the registration of a sedition case against Congress president Rahul Gandhi for referring to the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief as "Masood Azhar ji", saying it has "insulted" the country. The Acting Chief Judicial Magistrate accepted the petition moved by advocate Diwakar Verma and fixed March 23 as the date of hearing. "I have moved the court of chief judicial magistrate to register a case against Congress president Rahul Gandhi for his statement, where he had suffixed 'ji' to Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar's name," Verma said. "This act has insulted the country and amounts to ridiculing the martyrdom of soldiers on the country's borders," he told reporters. "Gandhi has so far not expressed any regret over his remarks. He has deliberately committed a heinous crime, which comes in the category of sedition," the petitioner said. Hitting out at the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on the issue of national security, the Congress chief told party workers in Delhi on Monday that 40 CRPF personnel were killed in the February 14 Pulwama terror attack carried out by the JeM, whose chief Masood Azhar was released from jail by the saffron party. "These people with 56-inch chests, you would recall, in their previous government, the current National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval, went in an aircraft with Masood Azharji and handed over Masood Azhar in Kandahar," he said sarcastically. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Trump administration is now focused on pressing Pakistan to take "sustained and irreversible" actions against terrorist groups operating from its soil, a senior American diplomat has said. Recently, tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district in February 14. A senior State Department official said Friday that the US stood "publicly and resolutely" with India in its response to the attack. "Now we are focused on pressing Pakistan to take sustained, irreversible action on terrorist groups operating on its soil, and we are working with others in the international community to achieve this goal," the official said. "The United States stood publicly and resolutely with India in its response to the attack, as you saw in our statements, while joining the international community in encouraging both sides to avoid military escalation, de-escalate tensions and communicate directly," he said. In the aftermath of the Pulwama attack, the United States has not only supported India's right to self-defence, but also has been building sustained pressure on Pakistan to take action against terrorist groups. Earlier in the day, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told Fox that Pakistan has to stop harbouring terrorists. "We saw what happened with India, the conflict that arose there as a result of terrorists that departed from Pakistan. We need Pakistanis to step up. They need to stop harbouring terrorists," he said. Pompeo had played a key role in de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan after Indian jets carried out air strikes at terrorist training camps of JeM in Balakot. Senior officials who are part of the de-escalation efforts in South Asia believe that this is only possible as long as there is no terrorist attack inside India coming from Pakistan. The recent talks between India and Pakistan on Kartarpur corridor is considered as a positive development in the US. The US officials believe that both Islamabad and New Delhi have shown seriousness in de-escalating the tensions. At the same time, they believe that the onus for this largely lies on Pakistan. If Pakistan continues with its age-old policy of supporting terrorist groups, the Trump administration may look into other options which could range from selective visa ban, revoking its non-NATO ally status and even cutting civilian aid to Pakistan. Since January 2018, US President Donald Trump has stopped all security assistance to Pakistan. It is understood that the focus for the Trump administration is not on any punitive action against Pakistan, but to convince its leadership including Prime Minister Imran Khan and Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa that it is in their interest to take sustained and irreversible actions against terrorist groups, the official said. The focus right now is to convince Pakistan that it is not in its interest to be isolated from the international community and it is in its interest to maintaining stable relationship with India, he said. Post Balakot, Pakistan has been told time and again that the reason that the situation is fragile in South Asia because of cross border terrorism, he said. In the wake of the Pulwama terror attack, India launched a major diplomatic offensive against Pakistan, holding briefing for envoys of 25 countries, including those from the five permanent UNSC members -- the US, China, Russia, the UK and France -- to highlight Islamabad's role in using terrorism as an instrument of state policy. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The US, France and the UK are believed to be in intense "good faith" discussions with China to arrive at a "compromise", including on the language on the UN designation of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist, according to people familiar with the matter. On Wednesday, China blocked for the fourth consecutive time a resolution at the UN Security Council Committee on designating Azhar, head of the JeM terror group, as a global terrorist. The proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council was moved by France, the UK and the US on February 27, days after a suicide bomber of the JeM killed 44 CRPF soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, leading to a flare-up in tensions between India and Pakistan. If the fresh efforts by the US, France and the UK does not end up in the formal designation of Azhar, the three permanent members are planning to soon move a resolution for his listing in the most powerful wing of the UN which would be preceded by an open debate on the issue, according to people familiar with the matter. India had expressed disappointment over the Chinese stance and the original co-sponsors of the resolution had warned they will consider "other actions" to achieve their goal. While the internal consultations of the Security Council committee remain private, this time several Council members, frustrated at China's unreasonable stance to protect a terrorist, privately spoke to the media the negative role being played by Beijing. "If China continues to block this designation, responsible member-states may be forced to pursue other actions at the Security Council. It shouldn't have to come to that," a Security Council diplomat told PTI on Wednesday in an unusual tough warning to Beijing. In the last 50 hours, it is believed that the original sponsors of the Azhar resolution are having intense "good faith" consultations with China on what many familiar with the matter describe as a "compromise". This probably means Azhar would be designated as a global terrorist by the UN body, but the language of designation would include a language acceptable to China. China is believed to have suggested "certain changes" in the language of the terrorist designation. The US, Britain and France are believed to be currently looking at the suggestions. It is understood that there is back-and-forth exchange of texts on the matter. The three countries have indicated that they are willing to accommodate Chinese request for changes in the language as long as it does not change the substance of the resolution and it ends up designating Azhar as a UN global terrorist. But unlike in the past, the US, France, Britain and other members of the Security Council are not willing to wait for long to conclude their discussion with China. It is learnt that China has been informed by these countries that they are seriously looking for other options, in particular an open debate followed by a vote on a resolution to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, pretty soon. Not months, not weeks but days. This is the what Beijing has been conveyed. At the same time, officials of the these countries believe that China this time has been much more co-operative than in the past. But in case at any point the three countries get a feeling that China is not doing a good faith negotiation on the "compromise formula" that is being negotiated, they are ready with the other move. China, after its decision to put a technical hold on the resolution, has invited criticism and its stance has also resulted in an outrage in India. Beijing would have to calculate the risk of being isolate globally on the issue of fight against terrorism or signing off to a compromised language that would designate Azhar as a global terrorist, since except China, all other UNSC members supported the resolution. Getting Chinese support to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, at the UN, in any format, would be considered as a terrific accomplishment. The very fact that there has been discussions going on between China and the US, Britain and France, is considered as a positive development. Those familiar with China's working pattern are still not confident and that's the reason why they are seriously working on other options including an open debate in the Security Council, where Beijing might find it difficult to defend a terrorist in public. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The US and two other permanent Security Council members, France and Britain, are believed to be in intense "good faith" discussions with China to arrive at a "compromise" on the UN designation of Jaish chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. And if that effort does not end up in the formal designation of Azhar, the three permanent members are planning to soon move a resolution for his listing in the most powerful wing of the UN which would be preceded by an open debate on the issue, according to people familiar with the matter. On Wednesday, China blocked for the fourth consecutive time a resolution at a UN Security Council Committee on designating Azhar, head of the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad group, as a global terrorist. The proposal was moved by the US, France and the UK. India had expressed disappointment over the Chinese stance and the original co-sponsors of the resolution had warned they will consider "other actions" to achieve their goal. While the internal consultations of the Security Council committee remain private, this time several Council members, frustrated at China's unreasonable stance to protect a terrorist, privately spoke to the media the negative role being played by Beijing. "If China continues to block this designation, responsible member-states may be forced to pursue other actions at the Security Council. It shouldn't have to come to that," a Security Council diplomat told PTI on Wednesday in an unusual tough warning to Beijing. In the last 50 hours, it is believed that the original sponsors of the Azhar resolution are having intense "good faith" consultations with China on what many familiar with the matter describe as a "compromise". This probably means Azhar would be designated as a global terrorist by the UN body, but the language of designation would include a language acceptable to China. China is believed to have suggested "certain changes" in the language of the terrorist designation. The US, Britain and France are believed to be currently looking at the suggestions. It is understood that there is back-and-forth exchange of texts on the matter. The three countries have indicated that they are willing to accommodate Chinese request for changes in the language as long as it does not change the substance of the resolution and it ends up designating Azhar as a UN global terrorist. But unlike in the past, the US, France, Britain and other members of the Security Council are not willing to wait for long to conclude their discussion with China. It is learnt that China has been informed by these countries that they are seriously looking for other options, in particular an open debate followed by a vote on a resolution to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, pretty soon. Not months, not weeks but days. This is the what Beijing has been conveyed. At the same time, officials of the these countries believe that China this time has been much more co-operative than in the past. But in case at any point the three countries get a feeling that China is not doing a good faith negotiation on the "compromise formula" that is being negotiated, they are ready with the other move. China, after its decision to put a technical hold on the resolution, has invited criticism and its stance has also resulted in an outrage in India. Beijing would have to calculate the risk of being isolate globally on the issue of fight against terrorism or signing off to a compromised language that would designate Azhar as a global terrorist, since except China, all other UNSC members supported the resolution. Getting Chinese support to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, at the UN, in any format, would be considered as a terrific accomplishment. The very fact that there has been discussions going on between China and the US, Britain and France, is considered as a positive development. Those familiar with China's working pattern are still not confident and that's the reason why they are seriously working on other options including an open debate in the Security Council, where Beijing might find it difficult to defend a terrorist in public. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The strategic interests between India and the United States are "broadly aligned, structural and deep" and the ties will continue to thrive, a US official has said, as Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale concluded his successful trip to the American capital. The three-day visit of Gokhale, which he started by meeting US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and concluded by calling on National Security Advisor John Bolton, demonstrated the "transformation of our strategic" relationship, the senior State Department official said Friday. The visit came amid simmering tensions between India and Pakistan following one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir in nearly three decades. On Feb 14, a suicide bomber of the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad group rammed his explosives-laden vehicle into a bus carrying CRPF personnel in Pulwama district, killing 40 of the soldiers. The US said it supported India's "right to defence" after the attack. India carried air strike on the biggest Jaish camp deep inside Pakistan 12 days later and Pakistan responded a day after that by violating the Indian air space. In a meeting with Gokhale on Wednesday, Bolton said he reiterated that the US stands "shoulder-to-shoulder" with India in the fight against terrorism. "My overarching conclusion from the visit is that US-India strategic interests are broadly aligned, structural, and deep. That our relationship will continue to thrive and that commitment to this relationship transcends party lines both here and in New Delhi," said the US diplomat. The two countries see eye to eye on Indo-Pacific issues, the pressing need to confront terrorism, and the critical importance of the growing US-India defence relationship, the official said. During Gokhale's visit, India and the US also agreed to build six American nuclear power plants in India, in a boost to bilateral civil nuclear energy cooperation. However, the UN Security Council listing of Jaish chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist did not go through as China vetoed the proposal for the fourth time in 10 years. On March 13, two days before the deadline on Azhar's listing, Gokhale had met Pompeo in Washington. About the meeting, the Ministry of External Affairs said in New Delhi that Pompeo expressed his "understanding" of India's concerns on cross-border terrorism. The US State Department official said Gokhale and Pompeo "discussed expanding our defence and economic partnership, our complementary visions for the Indo-Pacific." The official said they discussed "our appreciation for India's contributions in Afghanistan, as well as continued support for the mission of Special Representative Khalilzad." Gokhale held foreign office consultations, which on the US side was led by Under Secretary for Political Affairs David Hale. The consultations reinvigorated an important mechanism in which the US and India get together to compare notes on global issues and talk about their cooperation throughout the world. "This year's consultations included discussion of developments in the DPRK, Iran, and Venezuela. It was clear in these conversations that we have many joint goals and priorities," the American diplomat said, using an acronym for North Korea, with which the US is engaged in talks to seek the denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula. Gokhale also co-chaired the Strategic Security Dialogue with Under Secretary for Arms Control and Security Andrea Thompson. Members of his delegation held the India-US Space Dialogue with Assistant Secretary for Arms Control, Verification, and Compliance Yleem Poblete. During these discussions reaffirmed their commitment to working together to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery, and confronting threats in space, the official said. "Our consultations with India on these issues are of the same nature as those with our closest allies, demonstrating the level of trust and cooperation between our two governments. And, as was the case throughout Foreign Secretary Gokhale's visit, these conversations were frank, substantive, and strategic," said the State Department official. Congress leader Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil's son joining the BJP may be seen as a setback for the opposition party in Maharashtra, but it does not come as a surprise to the political pundits who point to the family's history of shifting loyalties. The Vikhe-Patils, based in Ahmednagar district, are a formidable name in Maharashtra's political history and also considered pioneers of the sugar co-operative movement in the state. Sujay Vikhe Patil, the son of the Leader of Opposition in the Assembly Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, joined the BJP on March 12 and is tipped to be its candidate from his preferred Ahmednagar Lok Sabha constituency. Members of the Vikhe Patil family, whose interests go beyond politics, have been part of almost all major parties in the last 70 years. The biggest contribution of the family in Maharashtra has been its role in setting up Asia's first cooperative sugar mill in Ahmednagar right after independence by late Vitthalrao Vikhe Patil under the guidance of then Congress stalwart Dhananjayrao Gadgil. It changed the rural economy and introduction of sugarcane as a cash crop contributed to uplift of people in villages and towns in several parts of Maharashtra. The family flourished under the leadership of Balasabhe Vikhe Patil, the son of Vitthalrao Vikhe Patil. Under Balasabhe Vikhe Patil, the family entered the education sector where it set up schools, medical and engineering colleges and also social organisations, thereby expanding its dominance in western Maharashtra. Balasaheb Vikhe Patil, who was in the Congress for a long time, won the erstwhile Ahmednagar North Lok Sabha seat seven times. Before joining the Congress, Balasaheb Vikhe Patil was closely associated with the Communist Party of India. His past communist link was not ignored by senior Congress leaders who used it to question his "loyalty" to the party, said Bal Bothe-Patil, a journalist from Ahmednagar district. When the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed Emergency in 1975, Balasaheb Vikhe Patil left the Congress like many other leaders in those days and became chairman of the Maharashtra Samajwadi Congress in 1978 along with his party colleague from Nanded, Shankarrao Chavan. However, both returned to the Congress fold when Indira Gandhi stormed back to power after losing the post-Emergency Lok Sabha polls. "The Vikhe Patils could not stay away from power for long. The same pattern was followed by his son (Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil) and grandson Sujay, who is now in the BJP," said Bothe-Patil, whose doctorate thesis was on political parties in Ahmednagar district since independence. Balasaheb Vikhe Patil again rebelled against former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1989, and under the leadership of V P Singh formed a political group, the Congress Forum for Action, that roped in 45 MPs across the country, he said. It was a strong message to other Congress leaders from Maharashtra, including Sharad Pawar, that the clout of the Vikhe Patils is growing, Bothe-Patil added. "The biggest-ever rift in Congress was witnessed when Balasaheb Vikhe Patil, defeated in polls, in early 1990s filed a lawsuit against (then) Congress leader Sharad Pawar for his alleged suggestion over acceptance of freebies. "Though Pawar (who later quit the Congress and formed NCP) had to face the Supreme Court's strictures, (it appears that) he did not forget the case," he claims. This may be the reason behind the NCP's refusal to drop its claim on the Ahmednagar Lok Sabha constituency as part of its seat-sharing agreement with the Congress for the upcoming polls, he said. Pawar's "stubbornness" left Sujay Vikhe Patil with no other option but to join the BJP, probably the only major party his family has not been associated with till now, Bothe -Patil added. In 1990s, the BJP-led coalition came to power at the Centre as well as in Maharashtra (in alliance with the Shiv Sena). Balasaheb Vikhe Patil switched over to the Shiv Sena and later became Union Minister for Heavy Industries in the Vajpayee cabinet. His son Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil also joined the Balasaheb Thackeray-founded party and became a minister in the Manohar Joshi-led Shiv Sena-BJP government in Maharashtra. The father-son duo returned to the Congress by 1999 and held ministerial posts till the party was in power. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A few months ago, Christchurch's Linwood Mosque proudly laid down new carpets in its halls. On Friday, the light brown carpets were stained red after an gunman stormed the building, spraying bullets at worshippers. "There was blood everywhere. Everything was out of control," Ibrahim AbdelHalim, imam of Linwood Mosque, told AFP. Like the wider Muslim community in Christchurch, Egypt-born AbdelHalim is struggling to come to terms with the violence wrought upon worshippers this week as he waits to bury the dead. Working together with the local Islamic community, AbdelHalim had sought to refresh the mosque after a trust bought it over in early 2018. Some of the seven worshippers who died at Linwood were among the most enthusiastic contributors, donating their personal time to help in fundraising efforts. One woman, a local Kiwi, fell down beside his wife when she was shot dead, AbdelHalim said. His wife, Falwa El-Shazly, was shot in the arm but survived the attack. Another man, a Fijian-Indian New Zealander who would regularly bring boxes of from his restaurant during mosque donation drives, was also killed. "They are dear to me, these are people who offer to us work for free," AbdelHalim said. "It was a very bad day, not just all of us, all of " At Hedley College, the main meeting centre for the survivors and victims' families, local Muslims from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds shared wordless hugs and fought back tears as they exchanged news about their loved ones. With Muslims making up just one percent of New Zealand's population, some members of the close-knit community raced to the mosques when they heard about the shootings. "I did not go to the prayer yesterday due to work... but received a call from my friends and rushed to the spot," Mohammad Kamruzzaman, originally from Bangladesh, told AFP. "Five of (our Bangladeshi friends) are still missing, only Allah knows where they are. We have lost... a guardian lady for our community, who taught children the Koran for free. It feels like we have lost a parent." Fiji-born Azan Ali, 43, who was in the Linwood Mosque with his Auckland-based father when the attack occurred, trembled when he thought back to crack of the gun shots on Friday. "Will I see my parents, my kids, my loved ones again or not? All the people you pray with, you see beside you..." he added, his voice trailing off. "My kids are scared, you know. You just have to work through it as a community." His father, Sheik Aeshad, who saw a worshipper shot in the neck, said he could not understand how such violence could take part in New Zealand, a small nation better known for its rolling, green hills and snow-capped mountains. "We never thought in New Zealand, this could happen. New Zealand's so friendly a place, you can leave your door open and go. But not now," he added. "I'm thinking what's going to happen the next time... it could be more people targeting somewhere else." It was a sentiment shared by Sahra Ahmed, a New Zealander of Somali origin and a active in her local community. Sahra said the attacks showed the South Pacific island nation could not escape the global wave of right-wing extremism. "This is a global movement, for better or worst, it's happened in all parts of the world. And some people like to import ideas from everyone else. So we're not immune from what's happening," she told AFP. "It doesn't matter where you go, the world is very small. The strict protocol of Rashtrapati Bhavan could not curb the motherly instincts of 106-year-old Saalumarada Thimmakka, who was awarded Padma Shri for planting thousands of trees in Karnataka, as she touched the forehead of President Ram Nath Kovind to bless him. Thimmakka, who has earned the sobriquet of 'Vriksha Mathe (mother of trees)' for planting 8,000 trees including over 400 banyan trees, was honoured along with other personalities at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Saturday. In a ceremony marked by strict protocols, Thimmakka, dressed in a light green sari, with a smiling face and 'tripundra' on her forehead, approached the dias to receive the award from President Ram Nath Kovind. As the president, 33 years younger to Thimmakka, asked her to face the camera, the centenarian touched his forehead to bless him. Her innocuous move brought a smile on the faces of the President, Prime Minister and all the guests who burst into a rapturous applause for her. Thimmakka's story is of grit and determination. She reportedly wanted to commit suicide in her 40s as she could not conceive, but with the support of her husband, she found solace in planting trees. The couple arduously worked in the fields during the day, planted trees and cared for them. From 10 plants in the first year, they kept planting more saplings in the later years. Sometimes even bringing water from over 4 kilometers for their plants. Born in Hulikal village in Karnataka, Thimmakka has planted over 8,000 trees during a period of 65 years. Her husband passed away in 1991. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A woman special police officer (SPO) was shot dead by militants at her home in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir Saturday, police said. The ultras shot SPO Khushboo Jan from close range at her home in Vehil in Shopian district Saturday afternoon, a police official said. The official said the injured SPO was shifted to a nearby hospital where she succumbed. Security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a hunt for the assailants, he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The list will have the names of most of the candidates for the first phase of polling, which will be held on April 11 in 91 seats. New Delhi: The BJP is likely to release its first list of candidates for the Lok Sabha polls on Saturday, when its central election committee is scheduled to meet. The list will have the names of most of the candidates for the first phase of polling, which will be held on April 11 in 91 seats. The election for 543 parliamentary seats will be held in seven phases till May 19 and the counting of votes will be taken up on May 23. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, party president Amit Shah and other top Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders will attend the central election committee meeting. All 42 seats in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana will go to the polls in the first phase with a fraction of constituencies in many other states, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Odisha and Assam, also to witness polling on April 11. Union ministers Satya Pal Singh, V K Singh, Mahesh Sharma, Giriraj Singh and Kiren Rijiju are among those whose constituencies will go to the polls in the first phase. The BJP is likely to take a call on their fate at Saturdays meeting. The Assembly polls in Telangana and Odisha will be held simultaneously with the general election. With Modi known for dropping a number of incumbents in order to beat the anti-incumbency factor, the saffron party has been abuzz with speculation over the fate of its sitting MPs. It has sought feedback from a number of sources, including the public, and has also asked its MPs to furnish details of the works they have carried out as it finalises its candidates for the upcoming polls. Yemen's Huthi rebels warned on Saturday they could launch attacks against the capitals of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, who lead a military coalition against them. The threat came as the United Nations was trying to salvage a truce deal in Yemen, seen as crucial to diplomatic efforts to end the country's four-year war. "We have aerial photographs and coordinates of dozens of headquarters, facilities and military bases of the enemy," rebel military spokesman Yahya Saree said in comments carried by the rebels' Al-Masirah channel. "The legitimate targets of our forces extend to the capital of Saudi Arabia and to the emirate of Abu Dhabi," capital of the UAE, he said. "We have manufactured advanced generations of attack aircraft, and new systems will soon be functional." The Iran-linked Huthi rebels have targeted Saudi border towns and Riyadh with ballistic missiles and also claimed drone attacks on the airports of Abu Dhabi and Dubai during the course of the conflict Saudi Arabia has said the missiles were all intercepted by its air force, with one civilian reported killed by falling shrapnel, while the UAE has denied the alleged drone attacks. Saudi Arabia and its military allies joined the Yemeni government's war against the Iran-linked Huthis in March 2015, triggering what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis. Some 10 million Yemenis face mass starvation, according to the UN. Both sides to the conflict stand accused of acts that could amount to war crimes. The World Health Organisation estimates nearly 10,000 people have been killed in Yemen since March 2015, when Saudi Arabia and its allies joined the government's war against the Huthis. Other rights groups estimate the toll could be much higher. On Wednesday the UN Security Council met to discuss the stalled truce deal that had been agreed in Sweden in December between the Saudi-backed Yemeni government and the Huthis. The deal -- which called for a ceasefire, rebel pullback and mutual redeployment from Hodeida, Yemen's lifeline Red Sea port controlled by the Huthis -- offered the best hope in years of moving toward an end to the conflict. While the fighting in Hodeida has eased, redeployment efforts have stalled in recent weeks. UN envoy Martin Griffiths told the Security Council on Wednesday he was still working to make the redeployment a "reality". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley accepted the Business Line "Change-maker of The Year Award" for the implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council from former prime minister Manmohan Singh on Friday. The award was given by the daily picked the GST Council for its work towards streamlining the tax structure in India and reducing the overall tax burden on consumers. The BJP immediately grabbed the "optic opportunity" offered by the award to ridicule the Opposition party Congress, which has often called the GST a Gabbar Singh Tax. The BJP took to Twitter to launch a salvo at Congress President Rahul Gandhi who has called the current the GST regime a "badly conceived and terribly executed" idea and promised to junk it in the present form. Though the former PM didn't speak on the occasion, the BJP tried its best to seize the opportunity by attacking his party. "Today GST COUNCIL got BUSINESS LINE-CHANGE MAKER OF YEAR AWARD. Presented to Finance Minister Shri @arunjaitley by Dr Manmohan Singh. Gabbar Singh Tax, Rahul Gandhi?," tweeted the BJP. Today GST COUNCIL got BUSINESS LINE-CHANGE MAKER OF YEAR AWARD. Presented to Finance Minister Shri @arunjaitley by Dr Manmohan Singh. Gabbar Singh Tax, Rahul Gandhi? pic.twitter.com/TZO0gMT2e3 - BJP (@BJP4India) March 15, 2019 "The optic value of the moment is huge. Of course, Dr. Singh is a gracious man and he knows how difficult the exercise to subsume a slew of taxes in the country under one umbrella GST was. The Finance Minister has ensured that the consensus rule was not breached and now almost 99 per cent commodities are off the high 28 per cent slab as the one tax for India moves towards lesser tax slabs than initially," said a BJP leader. While addressing a rally recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said the tax rates for 1,200-1,250 items of daily use were reduced under the new tax system. "Tax rates were brought down to 18 per cent for some, 12-5 per cent for others, and even zero per cent for certain items. We did this after acquiring public feedback," he said. He said it was "unfortunate" that the Opposition was creating such a hue and cry over a new system that's bound to transform the country. The Congress has repeatedly criticised the BJP for hastily implementing the tax regime in 2017 and thereby creating hardships for small businesses and ordinary citizens. Manmohan Singh -- the founding father of the GST -- himself has criticised the flaws in the current GST system, saying it disrupted non-organised sector businesses. "The small and unorganised sectors, which were vibrant and contributing to the generation of wealth and employment opportunities, have suffered in the wake of disastrous demonetisation and slipshod introduction and implementation of the GST," ex-prime minister said at a convocation of the New Delhi Institute of Management (NDIM) in February. Also Read: Lok Sabha elections 2019: PM Modi launches BJP's 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' campaign; urges people to fight corruption Also Read: Lok Sabha elections 2019 LIVE: Rahul Gandhi says Congress will combine all GST slabs into one The Goa Congress has staked claim to form government in the state, following the death of former Goa deputy chief minister and BJP lawmaker Francis D'Souza. In a letter to the Governor Mridula Sinha, the party has demanded dismissal of the Manohar Parrikar-led government in the state. The strength of Goa Assembly has reduced from 40 to 37 after the death of BJP lawmaker and resignation of two MLAs -Subhash Shirodkar and Dayanand Sopte. Currently, the Congress party has 14 MLAs, while the BJP has 13 MLAs. The Lok Sabha elections 2019 have been scheduled to start from April 11 and will go on till May 19. With little time left to woo voters, parties have increased their activities, with prominent leaders holding several rallies every day. From public rallies to workers' meetings, big leaders of the national as well as state parties are leaving no stone unturned to ensure victory in the polls. BusinessToday.In brings complete timeline of all the updates related to the General Elections 2019 through our blog. 10.00pm: Kajal Nayak, a transgender from Odisha to participate as the candidate of BSP from Jajpur, in the upcoming state elections. Odisha: Kajal Nayak, a 27-year-old transgender, would contest from the Korei Assembly seat in Jajpur district as the candidate of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in the upcoming state elections. pic.twitter.com/JxOl3AHbFh - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 9.30pm: Chandrababu Naidu says that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is chowkidar for corrupts like Jagan Mohan Reddy. PM is chowkidar for corrupts like Jagan Mohan Reddy: Chandrababu Naidu Read @ANI story | https://t.co/Mo6ntLZtwm pic.twitter.com/p5s9AJ1Y9U - ANI Digital (@ani_digital) March 16, 2019 9.00pm: Apna Dal's Krishna Patel faction joins hands with Rahul Gandhi's Congress alliance for 2 Lok Sabha seats- Gonda and Basti in Uttar Pradesh. Apna Dal's Krishna Patel faction joins Congress alliance for 2 Lok Sabha seats- Basti and Gonda in Uttar Pradesh. Pankaj Niranjan Singh Chandel, son-in-law of Krishna Patel, has taken membership of the Congress pic.twitter.com/NGBoxzQaol - ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 16, 2019 8.40pm: PM Modi and BJP President Amit Shah hold CEC meeting with Assam leaders. Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah hold Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting with Assam leaders pic.twitter.com/lTfGWzOnWn - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 The provision, a fixed a timeline for the release of the manifesto by political parties, will be applicable for all future elections, says Election Commission of India. Election Commission of India has fixed a timeline for the release of manifesto by political parties. Manifestos for both single and multi phase elections shall not be released during prohibitory period, as prescribed under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 pic.twitter.com/Cn9DCwFr8Z - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 Launching his campaign for the April 11 Lok Sabha and State assembly polls after offering prayers at the Lord Venkateswara shrine, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu mounted a strong attack on the YSR Congress alleging it was colluding with the BJP-led NDA and the Telangana Rashtra Samithi against his government. 7:40pm: Mahagathbandhan in Bihar: The grand alliance to announce seat sharing for Lok Sabha elections on March 18, said Hindustani Awami Morcha (Secular) president Jitan Ram Manjhi on Saturday. 7:30pm: Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh has triggered a fresh political storm by comparing Prime Minister Narendra Modi with dictators Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini, adding that the world needs leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King. The former Madhya Pradesh chief minister said that the world needs leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King. I totally agree with Rahul ji. World needs the Doctrine of Love Peace and Compassion promoted by Sanatan Dharm Gautam Budha and Mahavir and not that of Hatred and Violence. We need Mahatma Gandhis Martin Luther Kings and not Hitlers Mussolinis and Modis. https://t.co/Q9Ay0Ro5Tj - digvijaya singh (@digvijaya_28) March 16, 2019 7:25pm: TDP MLC Aadala Prabhakar Reddy, who got confrmed MLA ticket from Nellore Rural assembly constituency, joined to the opposition YSR Congress on Saturday. Later in the day, TDP MP from Kurnool Bhutta Renuka also joined YSRCP in the presence of the party chief Jaganmohan Reddy. 7:20pm: The Congress party is all set to lose the status of opposition party in Telangana state assembly following the defection of three more MLAs to the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), Hindustan Times reported. According to a TRS leader familiar with the development, at least four more Congress MLAs are expected to join the TRS in a day or two, it reported. 7:10pm: Nitin Bhansali, Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (JCC) Spokesperson, quits the party. (file pic) pic.twitter.com/UD8913MHCF - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 7:05pm: Goa BJP has called for a meeting of its MLAs in Panaji office today, ANI reported. 7:00pm: Prakash Ambedkar, Vanchit Bahujan Aaghadi (VBA): We requested them (AIMIM) that they should contest one seat in Mumbai (North Central) where Poonam Mahajan is sitting MP. They said we'll consider it. After their decision, we will announce on rest of the seats (11). https://t.co/nkwhgUSWPa - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 6:55pm: Delhi BJP writes to Election Commission requesting it to "appoint Special Observer for the mosques especially in Muslim dominated areas so that political/religious leaders cannot spread hate among people to influence elections". ANI reported. 6:50pm: Police busted an inter-state gang in Aligarh and arrested 9 criminals. It also seized country-made pistols, knifes, stolen mobiles & bikes from them. Aligarh: Police busted an inter-state gang and arrested 9 criminals; seized country-made pistols, knifes, stolen mobiles & bikes from them. Police say, "they used to travel by motorcycle & snatch cell phones. 18 stolen cell phones recovered from them" pic.twitter.com/mdu67SAERT - ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 16, 2019 6:40pm: BJP MP and Union minister Uma Bharti has announced that she doesn't want to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. In a series of tweets, Uma Bharti said that she has formally written to party president Amit Shah in this regard, wishes to spend time on the Ganges. 6:35pm: The Congress party has written to Governor Mridula Sinha and staked claim to form government in Goa, following the death of a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA. Former Goa deputy chief minister and BJP lawmaker Francis D'Souza died in February. Congress stakes claim to form government in Goa; writes to Governor to dismiss BJP-led govt which is in "minority" & call "single-largest party Congress to form govt".Also states in its letter, "any attempt to bring Goa under President's rule will be illegal & will be challenged" pic.twitter.com/EZ125NRO0a - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 6:30pm: PM Modi arrives at BJP headquarters for the party's CEC meeting. Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at BJP headquarters for the party's Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting; received by BJP President Amit Shah pic.twitter.com/xn7rk5GGgR - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 6.00pm: BJP's next CEC meeting to be held on 18th March, 2019. Sources: Next BJP Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting to be held on 18th March https://t.co/NllDRpuwhO - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 5.45pm: Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley also arrive at BJP headquarters for the party's CEC meeting in Delhi. Delhi: Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Home Minister Rajnath Singh arrive at BJP headquarters for the party's Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting. pic.twitter.com/lf2JrEmNFa - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 5.30pm: Sushma Swaraj, Kiren Rijiju, and former CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan arrive at BJP headquarters for the party's Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting to discuss candidates for Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Tripura, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Bihar, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and Andaman & Nicobar islands. Delhi: Union Ministers Sushma Swaraj, Kiren Rijiju, and former MP CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan arrive at BJP headquarters for the party's Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting. pic.twitter.com/GZFhMF386q - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 5.10pm: Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, along with his family, visited Tirupati Balaji Temple. Tirupati: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu with his family visited Tirupati Balaji Temple earlier today pic.twitter.com/L54Fvcczgr - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 4.40pm: Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath requested Digvijaya Singh that 'if he wants to contest Lok Sabha polls, then he should do so from the toughest seat.' However, Nath didn't mention any particular seat. (PTI) 4.10pm: 'BJP has been pressurizing EC to stop flow of KALIA assistance to farmers in Odisha, ' Biju Janata Dal mentioned to State Chief Electoral officer in a written letter. Biju Janata Dal writes to State Chief Electoral Officer stating that 'BJP has been pressurizing Election Commission to stop flow of KALIA assistance being provided to over 20 lakh farmers in #Odisha. The party should not be allowed to stop it.' pic.twitter.com/DQ1nVAACte - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 3.40pm: Communist Party of India releases the first list of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections 2019. Communist Party of India (Marxist) releases first list of seats for the #LokSabhaElections2019. pic.twitter.com/0PrbhOR0c5 - ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 3.00pm: Shah Faesal, Former IAS officer, to launch his political outfit 'Jammu and Kashmir People's Movement' at a function in Rajbagh area of the J&K on Sunday. Several aspiring politicians and youngsters are expected to join Faesal's political outfit. (PTI) 2.30pm: Rahul Gandhi in Uttarakhand: We gave loan waivers in three states where we won the Assembly elections recently and fulfilled our promise. Modi promised Rs 15 lakh for every citizens and also promised to provide jobs for 2 crore people every year. There is highest unemployment in Uttarakhand in the past 45 years right now. Ask people about their condition after they introduced demonetisation and GST...I want to tell all small business owners that we will make GST a simple process. There will be no variable tax slabs... we will correct all the wrongdoings of the Modi government. 2.15pm: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath says Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's entry into politics will make "no difference" to the BJP's Lok Sabha poll prospects in the state and dismissed the SP-BSP alliance as "false alarm". "The Congress has made her (Priyanka) its general secretary (in-charge of eastern UP) this time. It is an internal matter of that party. Earlier too she had campaigned for the Congress. This time also it will make no difference (to the BJP)," he told PTI. 1.52pm: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP from Haryana, Rattan Lal Kataria, makes controversial remarks against Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his late father and former PM Rajiv Gandhi. "Iska baap toh mar gaya, Rahul ka, Bofors kaand ke laaga chunri mein daag mitaaoon kaise, voh to iss dunia se chala gaya aur daag mitte nahi. Aur voh hamein keh rahe hain," says Kataria. 1.45pm: Rahul Gandhi posts "defensive tweet" after PM Modi's '#MainBhiChowkidar' campaign. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' campaign for upcoming Lok Sabha elections, urging everyone, who cares of the country, to come forward to fight corruption, dirt, social evils. The Modi-led BJP has launched this campaign to counter the Congress's 'Chowkidar Chor Hai' jibe. Congress President Rahul Gandhi has time and again hurled the 'Chowkidar Chor Hai' barb at PM Modi over the alleged scam in the Rafale fighter jet deal. While sharing a video with a hashtag #MainBhiChowkidar, PM Modi urged people show how all Indians were "chowkidars (watchmen)" and kick-started the BJP's campaign for the 2019 General Elections. Your Chowkidar is standing firm & serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar. Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar - Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 16, 2019 The video focuses on the Modi government's various flagship programmes, such as Mudra Yojana, Ujjwala Yojana and the Clean India initiative. "Your Chowkidar is standing firm & serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar," he tweeted. He also said that everyone working hard for the progress of India was a "chowkidar". "Today, every Indian is saying #MainBhiChowkidar." It is noteworthy that in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP had turned around Manishankar Aiyar's "Chaiwalla" jibe into a massive campaign. Also Read: Lok Sabha elections 2019 LIVE updates: PM Modi asks supporters to take 'Main bhi Chowkidar' pledge According to India Today, the 'Mai Bhi Chowkidar' campaign has been started after extensive surveys and data analysis by the BJP strategists who found that Rahul Gandhi's 'Chowkidaar Chor Hai' barb and campaign is not resonating among people. Surveys suggest it is actually angering people and now the BJP now wants to capitalise on it by launching its own campaign around it. This campaign, which appeals to people to join the movement, will reportedly drive the narrative of the PM's strong, decisive and clean image, which multiple surveys have conveyed is the main factor in the upcoming elections, suggest experts. As part of this campaign, Prime Minister Modi will also interact with people from across the country on March 31. Soon after the launch, MainBhiChowkidar began trending on social media. Reacting to PM Modi's new campaign, Congress spokesperson Sanjay Jha tweeted, "Modi Ji, you are not alone. Totally agree. You have Anil Ambani, Gautam Adani, Nirav Chhota Modi, Mehul Bhai Choksi, Vijay Mallya, Essar. Long list, boss. #ChowkidarChorHai." The official Twitter account of the Mumbai Congress, quoting Rahul Gandhi, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had robbed the poor of their hard-earned money and given it away to a few rich.. "if Modi says he is a chowkidar, people will respond that chowkidar chor hai". Edited by Chitranjan Kumar Also Read: Telecom firm BSNL's total loss may have crossed Rs 90,000 crore: Kotak Equities The global ban on the controversial Boeing 737 MAX 8 has rattled the airline operators. Not only due to the amount of such aircraft that have suddenly gone out of service but also the delay in future deliveries by Boeing - until the current issues are fixed - would significantly impact their future capacity additions, and hence growth projections. Let's look at the global scenario first. The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration), the US nodal agency for aviation, while issuing the airworthiness notice to airlines globally, mentioned that the worldwide fleet of 737 MAX 8 and MAX 9 is 387 planes, which are operated by 59 operators. When compared with the size of the active global commercial fleet (about 26,307), the 737 MAX 8 and MAX 9 fleet constitute just 1.47 per cent. The scenario, however, changes completely if the pending aircraft orders are taken into consideration. For instance, 737 MAX series accounts for over 35 per cent (4,636 aircraft) of the total pending aircraft orders with Boeing and Airbus (13,216). That means that one in three planes to be inducted into the global commercial aviation fleet is going to be 737 MAX given that Boeing could effectively find a solution. Boeing 737 Max won't be allowed in Indian airspace; airlines brace for flight cancellations In India, the situation is no different. When the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) issued the grounding orders for this narrow-body aircraft early this week, Indian airlines-SpiceJet and Jet Airways-had just 18 of them, and out of which five were already grounded by Jet due to its financial troubles. For domestic commercial aircraft fleet of 638, the current groundings might not have a significant impact. But the pending orders of 430 737 MAXs-out of the total 1,008 orders for the entire sector-could affect the growth projections for airlines like SpiceJet and Jet. Though SpiceJet's 205 planes order also includes 50 aircraft, the airline has the option to convert into a firm order later. Boeing 737 Max ban: Air fares rise over 100% as airlines face disruption in flight operations For Boeing, this is the biggest setback for the US-based aircraft manufacturer in its entire history. The overwhelming dependence on this single-aisle aircraft-4,636 737 MAX out of the total backlog of 5,826 aircraft-can seriously jeopardise its financials, and the company is under immense pressure to fix the problems that seems to be three-fold. Experts believe that 737 MAX is not a product that was well thought-through. Back in 2010, when Airbus launched its next-generation, fuel-efficient A320neo, Boeing was already looking for a replacement to its five-decade old 737 series of aircraft. The runaway success of A320neo prompted Boeing to put out a competitor in the market in the shortest possible time. In 2011, the 737 MAX was launched with new features such as new CFM International LEAP-1B engine but it seems that the company had to make compromises while overhauling its 737NG series in order to quickly react to the Airbus' move. At the moment, 737 MAX is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, and has more than 100 customers. The MAX family has four types - 737-7, 737-8, 737-9 and 737-10 - that comes in different seating capacity. India bans Boeing 737 Max aircraft: All you need to know SpiceJet cancels 14 flights, offers full refund after DGCA bans Boeing 737 Max 8 While the investigations of the Ethiopian Airlines crash are still being conducted, there are already enough evidences that link the current crash with the last year's Lion Air tragedy involving the same aircraft. It's believed that the placement and the size of the engines, faulty anti-stall systems, and inadequate communications from the Boeing to the pilots about the functioning of this aircraft are the main culprits. It's normal for a new aircraft type to develop technical glitches in the first few years of its launch. Given that 737 MAX was commercially launched less than two years ago, the Lion Air's crash was clearly a distress signal that the Boeing and global aviation regulators failed to take note of. Ahead of the Lok Sabha polls , the Static Surveillance Team (SST) of Nagpur administration Friday seized Rs 80 lakh in cash from two four wheelers along the Maharashtra-Madhya Pradesh border, official said. The sub-divisional officer of the Ramtek Lok Sabha constituency in Nagpur district, in a press release, said the district administration has been strictly implementing the model code of conduct. The SST seized Rs 30 lakh in cash from a four-wheeler during an inspection at Satnur check-post under the Saoner assembly segment, which borders Madhya Pradesh and is part of the Ramtek Lok Sabha constituency, he said. Similarly, the SST seized another Rs 50 lakh from a vehicle at Kedwad checkpost at 3.30 pm, the release said. The income tax department is probing the matter, it added. Also Read: Lok Sabha elections 2019 LIVE updates: PM Modi asks supporters to take 'Main bhi Chowkidar' pledge Also Read: Misleading calls to voters: AAP claims EC agrees to keep Delhi Police out of probe The National High Speed Rail Corporation (NHRSCL) has invited bids for the 237 km out of 508 km-long Ahmedabad-Mumbai bullet train project, as per media report. The project, which is the biggest contract for civil construction in India, would cost about Rs 20,000 crore and the successful bidder will have to complete the work in 44 months, the Economic Times quoted sources as saying. NHRSCL is a joint venture of Government of India and participating state governments for implementing high-speed rail projects. According to the leading daily, only few Indian infrastructure companies, such as L&T and AFCON can bid for the project. Also, they would need to have a joint venture with Japanese companies like Hitachi Construction and Mitsubishi Construction, industry sources told ET. Besides, Japanese firms can also independently bid for the works considering their vast experience, it reported. According to the agreement with the Japanese Funding Agency, JICA, only Indian and Japanese construction firms are qualified to put their bids. The tender document published on Friday stated that the companies will have to submit their bids with Rs 200 crore security amount. "Usually, the bid security amount is about 1% of the project cost. Hence, the works would involve around Rs 20,000 crore investment or expenditure", said a government official, who has been involved in rolling out of mega infrastructure projects. The official target of the completion of India's first high-speed rail line project is 2023. While the train is designed to operate at a speed of 350 kilometres per hour, it will be running at a maximum speed of 320 kilometres, cutting down the travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad by 5 hours. As of now, the fastest train on this route takes around seven hours. Mumbai-Ahmedabad line will have 12 stations, BKC, Thane, Virar, Boisar, Vapi, Bilimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Ahmedabad and Sabarmati. (Edited by: Nehal Solanki) Also read: Competition to name bullet train, design its mascot announced Also read: The future is on track It is likely that Danish Ali is fielded for the Lok Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh. He was welcomed in the party by senior BSP leader Satish Chandra Mishra. (Photo: ANI | Twitter) Lucknow: JD(S) General Secretary Danish Ali, who until recently was involved in alliance negotiations with Congress and JD(S), joined Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Saturday. After joining BSP, Danish Ali said, JD(S) doesn't have a large orga structure in UP. Despite all my efforts I could not have raised it in my 'janmabhoomi, my 'karmabhoomi'....The way in which there is a threat to constitution today, it has become essential to use our energy with a strong leadership. I never asked for anything even when I was in JD(S), it was upto HD Deve Gowda ji to decide what work to assign me. I have come here after taking the blessings and permission of Deve Gowda ji. I will work wherever Behen ji assigns me, Ali added. Mayawati would decide his role in the party, Mishra said. comment A pictorial half-page (Sunday CT, March 10) devoted to people who regard themselves and the land as one entity; in contrast to those who regard their own environment as something to be exploited for short-term political or financial gain. The former, harmonising with cool water of the high country's Long Plain without goose pimples tough as well as realistic. Congratulations to those Indigenous people and the Sunday Canberra Times for coming out, in their own way, to support what scientists, dedicated to truth, have been publishing for many decades. It's been a hard fight. There have been few long-term wins on behalf of the Kosciuszko landscape. An early one, deletion of a proposed dam covering glaciation remnants on the upper part of Spencers Creek. Not building it would compromise the whole scheme, declared Sir William Hudson, chairman of SMHEA. Flow of water into the Murray is dependent, predominantly, on precipitation on the Kosciuszko massif. Winter snow acts as a reservoir, releasing water gradually via spring-summer snow melt, again much-regulated by moss and peat along drainage lines. Politicians and such ilk actively endangering this hydrology might be described as "horse-traders" when, above all other evidence, we have the example of the collapse of Wingecarribee Swamp, which "on the night of August 8, 1998, blew out and collapsed ..." (Running Down by Mary White, p113). The swamp, a wetland of national and international significance, which had taken 10,000 years to form, "originally occupied an area of 600 hectares, and clear, fresh water of excellent quality emerged from its lower end". Colin Samundsett, Farrer So the Murray Darling Basin Authority has 288 people in its Canberra office. Wow, who'd have thought that many! What do they all do? It can't be managing the Murray Darling river system, as by all accounts the plan is totally ineffective and satisfies no one, while the health and sustainability of the system seems to be totally shot. Don Sephton, Greenway No surprise to learn that the "independent arbiter" (laughter, please), the Remuneration Tribunal (federal and ACT), an artifice to justify scheduled and routine salary increases for a select clientele, has recommended an indefensible, given the times, increase for this overclass at the expense, yet again, of their workers. For some years, in federal and now ACT departments and agencies, we have seen SES and senior management positions and levels inflate steadily, their numbers and salaries surpassing those in like organisations in other comparable societies. Our military and police are not immune. Past reviews have shown that the ADF has a higher ratio of executive and senior management compared to its foot soldiers than its counterparts in the UK, USA, Canada and NZ. The military is effectively locked in competition with the public service on rank levels, numbers, and reward parity. The AFP experimented in the 1990s with "flattening" its organisation structure, purportedly to make it lean, mean and cost effective. It didn't happen. The counter-intuitive but arguably foreseeable consequence was the growth of a much higher ratio of chiefs to Indians, as evidenced today. This pancaking also led to the dilution of the breadth and depth of critical skills and experience. It is time to put our front-line workers first, to pare back executive and senior management, and for the latter to focus on intelligently and empathetically resourcing, supporting, and guiding workers to ethical and successful results. A seasoned executive headhunter shared his opinion recently that if the SES were to be halved, few would notice and it would not adversely affect productivity. Lest this contribution be seen as sour grapes, I held SES Band 3 office for 10 years in, successively, two operational entities. A. Whiddett, Forrest That survivor Jay Wilson was not one of the approximately 40,000 Americans succumbing to gun violence annually, recovering, albeit bankrupt and badly scarred to graciously forgive his assailant, reflects the daily Russian roulette to which US citizens are subject ("'Devastation': the cost of getting shot in America", Sunday CT, March 10, p17-19). Some 24,000 US citizens annually use guns to commit suicide. Approximately 90,000 annually, like Wilson, survive gun violence. 2018 figures show the US accounts for 393 million (46 per cent) of total global civilian firearms, with about 43 per cent of households having at least one gun. Following the Port Arthur massacre, John Howard, steeled by the nation's horror but against ferociously entrenched vested interests, implemented the 1996 "gun buyback" of unregistered, illegal and unwanted firearms. His then deputy, Tim Fischer, who doubtless has good intelligence, warns a "wave" of pressure from well-funded sources US National Rifle Association is putting renewed pressure on gun laws. Some recently created federal parties have no qualms accepting blood money to further the political aims of their gun advocate financiers. The Shooting Industry Foundation of Australia may have had its fingerprints on donations supplied to candidates in Tasmanian, Queensland and Victorian elections. Figures suggest Australians may now own 3 million firearms, more than before 1996! Albert M. White, Queanbeyan A group of volunteers at the balloon festival being embarrassed by the farcical banning of Black Magic is a tremendous start. I want to read next that a larger group of Canberrans has woken up to the embarrassing levels of political correctness, in general. Vasily Martin, Queanbeyan 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 or fewer words. References to Canberra Times reports should include the date and page number. Letters may be edited. Provide phone number and full home address (suburb only published). /images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/8fe15a8a-a2e1-499a-8d64-6359db6cdfc3/r2_0_618_348_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg comment, editorial "Our hearts are with you, we are with you," a note outside the New Zealand High Commission in Canberra reads. "Standing together against senseless evil. Unity will always win." Sitting on top of a white rose, and surrounded by sombre pale lilies and bright gerberas, the note epitomises what many of us are feeling. The sentiment was obvious across Canberra on Saturday in the wake of the chilling terrorist attack on our neighbours in New Zealand, on innocent civilians practising their right to freedom of religion. Flowers outside the Canberra Islamic Centre in Tuggeranong, the mosque in Yarralumla and the Gungahlin mosque were a show of solidarity and of support. Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Labor leader Bill Shorten urged Australians to stand up to hatred and intolerance as the region grappled with its worst mass-murder in modern history. Ashamedly, the alleged attacker was a 28-year-old right-wing extremist from the New South Wales town of Grafton called Brenton Tarrant. Just across the Tasman Sea in a country that we consider our close ally, a horrific attack was perpetrated by a man who was identified as Australian. But Mr Shorten echoed what has run through the minds of many Australians - this was not an Australian who represents Australia. "This is not who we are - but that is why solidarity is so important." Australians must insist on a respectful community, now more than ever. We can't be divided by extremists, not in our community and particularly not in federal politics - a place that is supposed to represent the views of a nation. We are a proud multicultural nation, and we need to stand in unity with each other and our neighbours. Thankfully, it is each and every one of us that can make that happen. It is often in times of intense pain and suffering that people from all walks of life band together. It has been seen in New Zealand, in Australia and it has been seen across the world that this is one of those times - flags have flown at half-mast, a minute's silence recognised. Tributes to the victims have included the Eiffel Tower going black and the Sydney Opera House lit up with a silver fern. Outside a mosque in Manchester a man held a sign that read: You are my friends. I will keep watch while you pray. It is this sentiment of solidarity that we cant forget in the weeks, months and years that follow this devastating event. /images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/6dfc7a32-beb7-418a-bb02-d8d5d606a63f/r0_214_4256_2619_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg news, latest-news The Canberra Muslim Community has condemned the "barbaric killings" at mosques in Christchurch and has called for respect and support. The wider community has rallied, placing flowers and notes outside mosques and the New Zealand High Commission in Canberra. Other religious leaders and politicians have expressed their sympathies directly to the Muslim community and in posts on social media. A post on the Gungahlin Mosque Facebook page on Friday evening said the Canberra Muslim Community "condemns in the strongest possible terms the shootings and killing of innocent Muslims" in New Zealand. "We condemn terrorism in all its forms, regardless of its source, and that terrorism has no religion and no homeland." "We stress our position that religions should be respected." "Canberra is a beautiful and wonderful multicultural community and let's keep it that way. Let's be respectful to each other and support each other in time of our needs." The post thanked the police for taking part in a community forum at the mosque on Friday night, and other religious leaders and community members who had shown their support. ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said there is no place in Canberra for the abhorrent views apparently behind the New Zealand attack. "On behalf of Canberrans, I share our deepest sympathies for those affected by this devastating terrorist attack in Christchurch. At this tragic time, our thoughts are with all New Zealanders," Mr Barr said in a statement. "We, as Canberrans, know our city is a progressive and inclusive place to live, and that diversity has enriched our city. There is no place here for the abhorrent views apparently behind this attack. All Canberrans have a right to feel safe in their places of worship. We stand with our Muslim community members at this time and offer our ongoing support." Mr Barr said he was confident that under New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, the country would remain united and stay strong during this difficult time. ACT Opposition leader Alistair Coe also expressed his support. "I hope we can all support the brothers and sisters in the Muslim community at this very sad time," Mr Coe said. The Canberra Islamic Centre posted a series of messages from the Canberra community on Facebook on Saturday morning, including a note from the Canberra Interfaith Forum which said "any attack on any of you is an attack on each of us". The Uniting Church in Australia also offered prayers and support to those affected. "We are deeply distressed to hear of the shootings at the Deans Avenue Mosque and the Linwood Masjid in Christchurch, New Zealand," a Facebook post said. "As people of faith our hearts go out to our Muslim sisters and brothers. An attack on people of faith is an attack on us all, who seek to worship in safety and peace." At least 49 people were killed in a terrorist attack at two mosques in Christchurch on the South Island of New Zealand on Friday, with one of the massacres live-streamed on the internet. One of the shooters, who filmed the attack using a headcam, was Brenton Tarrant from Grafton in New South Wales. He described himself in a chilling 74-page manifesto as just an ordinary white man, 28 years old. ACT Policing is stepping up patrols around mosques in Canberra but had advised the Muslim community there is no current threat. /images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/e202ce24-323c-48e4-83c3-71f617bb5420/r0_223_4256_2628_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg news, latest-news A proposed $35 million 12-storey apartment complex in Belconnen would be a good fit for the future of the booming district and give locals much-needed additional parking space, residents say. The complex, proposed for Chandler Street, would be 42 metres high and contain 121 apartments and two commercial stores. About 186 resident car parks would be spread across three basement levels. A separate basement car park, to be constructed on an adjacent part of the site, would provide 179 car parks to an existing office and commercial building on Cameron Avenue via underground access. Other parts of the site that have existing car parking space have been flagged for future development by the developers HTI Group, although it has not been decided what would be constructed there. Construction on the apartment building would begin in March 2020 under the proposal, with completion expected in June 2021. "Our view is that the infill program that seems to be going on at a great speed is certainly welcome because we need to bring more people into the district," Belconnen Community Council chair Glen Hyde said. "We're concerned about increases in traffic density through Chandler Street and Aikman Drive but because they've got underground parking in their design, that's something we've been championing for a long time. "If we can get residents into underground parking that makes [a building] manageable and attractive. The additional parking is off-street, which we think is a good thing." Nine of the car parks on site would be accessible, and 12 residential apartments would be adaptable. About 73 per cent of the apartments on offer would be large two- and three-bedroom units, while the rest would have one bedroom. A rooftop terrace would provide a communal space for residents. "Retail units at street level will provide further amenity and services for the broader community," HTI codirector Jon Tanchevski said. HTI had consulted extensively with neighbours, stakeholders, and government authorities over the past few months about the building, including delivering 2000 information flyers to surrounding neighbours and hosting a community consultation session, Mr Tanchevski said. Overall, attendees were supportive of the design, the extra car parking space it would offer, and the height of the building, considering it would be consistent with the Belconnen master plan and the territory plan, he said. "Matters of concern were raised in relation to the performance of the immediately surrounding street network noting the extent of the developments currently under construction as well as that proposed," Mr Tanchevski said. "The community was advised that a suitably qualified traffic engineer had been engaged for the project." The HTI development would be directly opposite Geocon's 'Republic' development, which is currently under construction on Edmonstone Place. The complex, which is expected to be finished in mid-2020, will contain two 27-storey buildings - the tallest in Canberra - 1250 apartments, a 152-room Abode hotel, and a 500-space car park. More than $350 million worth of apartments have already been sold at the development. "There is an unprecedented demand for apartments and the rental crisis is worsening," Geocon managing director Nick Georgalis said previously. "The booming population and employment market here will be driving demand even higher over the next few years." With Dan Jervis-Bardy /images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/50c9d9ad-40dd-4354-b240-d45d72dc01c0/r0_305_6000_3695_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg Generation after generation, the Congress Party's leadership berth is reserved for a member of the preferred family, he said. Jaitley was referring to Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who has been recently appointed as Congress general secretary in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh. (Photo: File) New Delhi: "One failed. The other won't take-off", Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said on Friday as he took a jibe on the entry of Priyanka Gandhi into politics. Generation after generation, the Congress Party's leadership berth is reserved for a member of the preferred family, he said as he traced the post-independence history of the party from Jawaharlal Nehru to Indira Gandhi to Sanjay Gandhi to Rajiv Gandhi. Continuing the series of his blogs on ''Agenda 2019'', he said the Congress tried to remove itself from the shackles of dynasty for a brief period after the unfortunate assassination of Rajiv Gandhi but could not get out of its clutches for long. "Smt. Sonia Gandhi then took over as the longest serving President of the Indian National Congress and thereafter passed on the leadership baton of the Party to her son Rahul Gandhi. Thus, generation after generation, the Congress Party's leadership berth is reserved for a member of the preferred family. When the Party is now in doldrums, another member of the family has entered the scene," said the senior BJP leader who is in-charge of party's publicity committee. Jaitley was referring to Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who has been recently appointed as Congress general secretary in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh. The Finance Minister further said: "The key question is - will the dynastic parties learn from their 2014 drubbing and a possible defeat in 2019? "Possibly not. It is here that the people of India will have to bring about a change. India is not a monarchy. Neither is it a kingdom or dynastic democracy. Dynasts disapprove persons of talent and merit." "The real strength of democracy will be realised when myth of dynasties is finally buried and these parties are taken over by men of competence and merit. That will provide Indians with a better choice, he said. The another curious feature, he said, is that most families where a single dynast created the party, have moved into the next generation. "In the next generation, there may be more than one heir. Both the heirs become aspirational and, therefore, the parent dynast distributes the largesse. But recent history has proved otherwise," Jaitley said. He added that Chinese philosopher Confucius had rightly said that just as there can be only one sun in the sky, there can be only one emperor on the Earth. "Where power sharing between successor dynasts takes place, who is the ultimate emperor?," he wondered as he highlighted instances of family-based political parties in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh. In Karnataka, he said there is an experiment of sons sharing the state and the grandsons sharing the Centre, and in Maharashtra, the initial ripples have started. "The Congress has undertaken the same experiment. It believes that two owners are better than one. Will Confucius be proved right and history record that one eventually prevailed over the other or will it be otherwise. One failed. The other won't take-off," Jaitley said. On the other hand, he said Prime Minister Narendra Modi grew from an extremely humble background. He worked in the party organisation till he was inducted into the leadership and he had to work and struggle for the positions that he got. "He earned them," Jaitley said, and exuded confidence that Modi and aspirational India would together demolish the concept of families. "The real strength of democracy will be realised when myth of dynasties is finally buried and these parties are taken over by men of competence and merit. That will provide Indians with a choice," the minister remarked. news, federal-politics Indigenous, women's and children's advocacy and peak bodies say they have lost access to democracy after being told they won't be able to attend the federal budget lock-up on April 2. At least eight groups, many of whom have been long-time attendees, have confirmed they were told there wasn't enough room for them at this year's stakeholder lock-up. One organisation was told the Treasurer's office and the Department of Treasury had chosen a list of stakeholders most relevant to the year's budget measures, while others were told the event had moved to a smaller space. Australian Council of Social Service boss Cassandra Goldie slammed the decision as "arrogant and undemocratic", with many organisations offended and confused that they had been deemed less relevant, and left wondering if business and industry groups had faced the same rejections. National Shelter, Early Childhood Australia, the National Foundation of Australian Women, Volunteering Australia, the Women's Electoral Lobby, and the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Services are among community groups who had attended the lock-up previously and have this year found themselves locked out. Other organisations have also been told they can't attend this year, but were wary of media reporting affecting their relationship with the government. Cheryl Axleby, co-chair of National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Services, said the organisation had previously been invited, but had been excluded this year while budgets cuts loomed. "Were holding our breath for this years budget as we desperately need an injection and at least the $10 million of cuts to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Services projected in 2020-22 to be overturned," Ms Axleby said. "Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people must be a priority or we will be forced to reduce front-line services resulting in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander kids, mums and dads going unrepresented and the disadvantage of our people will increase." The National Family Violence Prevention Legal Services Forum, the only Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander family-violence peak body, was told its convenor couldn't attend the lock-up, even though she had done so in previous years. "Every year we wait for the budget with fingers crossed hoping we will be a priority," convenor Antoinette Braybrook said. "This year we are told straight out we arent a priority and that we dont align with budget measures. "How can Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women not be a priority for the government given the disproportionate rates of family violence our women experience? This is shameful that we are not only told we arent a priority but that we cant attend the lock-up to inform our members." Many of the groups said they use the budget lock-up to prepare for media commentary, and to create documents summarising the budget for their stakeholders. "There's lots of organisations and people who rely on us to give early advice on what the budget contains regarding housing, and that includes people in the lock-up," said Adrian Pisarski, executive officer for affordable-housing peak body National Shelter. Mr Pisarski described the snub as "insulting". Early Childhood Australia chief executive Sam Page said she now expects to spend a late night creating a budget summary for the peak body's members after the budget papers are released to the public at 7.30pm. "It's not going to silence us," she said. Ms Goldie said the decision as to which groups were included reflected the government's priorities, and contributed to a wider feeling of mistrust in politicians. "There's a widely held view that the government has a gender problem, and then there's a whole lot of women's groups excluded," she said. "One of the biggest debates we have is the lack of trust and confidence in government and politicians. The government needs to open up the doors to show it welcomes a diversity of voices, welcomes criticisms and is willing to listen." In previous years the lock-up for stakeholders has been held at the Department of Treasury building, and in recent years at a larger venue at the Hyatt Hotel in Canberra. A Treasury spokeswoman said the aim of the lock-up was to provide access for those "with a clear and immediate need", and there wasn't enough room for everyone who wanted to attend every year. "The Treasury greatly values the contribution of community groups to the budget process," the spokeswoman said. "They are generously represented in the budget lock-up, and attendees range from a variety of sectors, including disability, welfare, and mental health services." Treasury said it couldn't provide lists of last year's and this year's attendees for security reasons. Has your group also been excluded? Email sally.whyte@canberratimes.com.au. /images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/69ef43a7-8d3d-4446-a391-4a31aeeb26a8/r0_302_5447_3380_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg India extended support for the priority areas set out by Brazil, especially the BRICS cooperation on counter-terrorism. The Indian delegation was led by Secretary (ER), TS Tirumurti for the meeting, held under the Presidency of Brazil. (Photo:AP) Curitiba: India extended support for the priority areas set out by Brazil, especially the BRICS cooperation on counter-terrorism, during first BRICS Sherpa meeting held here on March 14 and 15. The Indian delegation was led by Secretary (ER), TS Tirumurti for the meeting, held under the Presidency of Brazil. "Brazil has identified countering terrorism as one of its priority areas for BRICS under its presidency. Brazil's priorities for its Presidency includes inter-alia science, technology, and innovation, digital economy, New Development Bank and BRICS Business Council as well as countering transnational crime and terrorism," an official statement outlined. India conveyed its support for the priority areas, particularly to take forward BRICS cooperation on counter-terrorism in a meaningful and concrete manner with BRICS member countries. "India also underlined the need to take forward inter-alia people-to-people cooperation, cooperation in science and technology and innovation, and also in health and traditional medicine," the statement outlined. BRICS brings together five major emerging economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - comprising 43 per cent of the world population, having 37 per cent of the world gross domestic product (GDP) and 17 per cent share in the world trade, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). India is one of the founder-nations of the association. The city of Cordoba had been Christian from apostolic times until the Islamic conquest came to southern Spain in the year 711. One of the Cordoba Martyrs Soon Cordoba became the capital of this part of the original "Islamic State", and would remain so until the 15th century. During this whole period the Church continued to exist, but she was subject to sharia (Islamic law) which forbade public witness and imposed jizya (a special tax). Things became more complicated as Cordoba grew into a prestigious economic and cultural center in the Islamic world. Catholic churches and monasteries remained, but the population attracted by the many opportunities in the Muslim city began converting to Islam. Even prominent churchmen cooperated with the political regime in ways that compromised their integrity. By 800, few remained professing Catholics. A significant portion of the population, however, conformed externally to Islamic laws and customs but tried in various ways to remain Christian privately or even secretly. Though sharia law permitted Christians to exist, it forbade Muslims to convert to Christianity. This was regarded as the crime of apostasy, punishable by death. The problem of "secret Christians" in Islamic Spain was especially complicated by the inevitable mixed marriages between Muslim men and Christian women. The latter were generally permitted to retain their faith, but the children of such marriages were considered Muslim by sharia law. It is impossible to gauge the influence of these Christian mothers on their children, but it was not negligible. Thus, by the 9th century Cordoba was institutionally and legally Muslim and what was left of the Church was largely compliant. But this period also documents the witness of forty-eight Cordoba Martyrs. Many were Christians executed for blasphemy because, in seeking to reinvigorate the Church, they openly proclaimed Christ and denounced Islam. But there were also apostates among them. Saint Aurea illustrates what may have been the hidden truth for many others born of mixed marriages. She was one of several children of a prominent Muslim father and a Christian mother. Her mother must have been an outstanding woman of faith who raised her children as believing Christians. When Aurea was young, two of her brothers were martyred. Sometime after this (and after her marriage and widowhood, about which nothing is known) Aurea joined her mother in seclusion in a convent outside the city. A significant portion of the population, however, conformed externally to Islamic laws and customs but tried in various ways to remain Christian privately or even secretly. Open Christian witness was met by further Muslim persecution in 850, and it became increasingly unsafe for Christians like Aurea, who were legally Muslim by birth in spite of growing up as Christians and personally embracing the Christian Faith. Relatives from her Muslim father's family found Aurea after twenty years of undisturbed peace in the convent and brought her before the sharia court. To avoid being condemned for apostasy, Aurea did what many other secret Christians did to escape: she declared adherence to Islam and its prophet. She repented, however, almost immediately after being released, and returned to practicing her Christian faith. Her Muslim relatives denounced her again, and this time she was executed on July 19, 856. We have presented Aurea as a convert even though its possible that she was baptized a Christian at an early age. Nevertheless, she was martyred because Islamic law regarded her as a convert an apostate simply because of her free adherence to Jesus Christ While Augustine of north Africa became one of the greatest Doctors of the church, Patrick of Roman Britain humbly called himself uneducated, even though he was schooled in France by Saint Germaine of Auxerre and possibly Saint Martin of Tours, and was given books by Pope Saint Celestine I. Patrick, after six youthful years as a slave captured by Irish pirates, embarked upon the conversion of the Druid tribes. He did not chase the snakes out of Ireland because there were none, nor did he explain the Holy Trinity using a shamrock, for that would have been a Partialist error inconsistent with the Niceno-Constantinopolitan Creed formulated just a few years before his birth. But he sparked a fire that shed the Gospel light on many parts of the world. The largest number of people who claim Patrick for their patron are Nigerians, converted by heroic Irish missionaries. The number of baptized Catholics in Nigeria has soared from 19 million in 2005 to 53 million today. There are two thousand priests and nearly 4,000 Religious, along with a boom in vocations. By contrast, despite many worthy witnesses, the majority of Irish people failed to heed the warnings of Saint John Paul II when he became the first pontiff to set foot on the soil of Eire in 1979. He preached to 1.25 million faithful at a Mass in Phoenix Park, Dublin. Last year, Pope Francis offered Holy Mass in the same place, and fewer than 130,000 showed up. Four months later, the Druids returned and defiantly danced in the streets when abortion was legalized. The Taoiseach (Prime Minister), was elected while publicly living in perverse contempt of the sacrament of Holy Matrimony. The chief seminary of Maynooth has the lowest numbers of students since its foundation in 1795. Its rector of fifteen years abandoned the Faith and now conducts an esoteric cult in Arizona. An Irish commentator and playwright recently called Ireland "The Most Anti-Catholic Country on Planet Earth." This would seem to be hyperbolic, given persecution in Muslim lands, China and North Korea, but it bespeaks the adolescent rebellion of a population moved by an anger unlike the cool detachment of calculating governments. This is a warning to Catholics in the United States, because such is what happens when religion is only a political and ethnic sentiment. The Saint Patrick's Day parade in New York City has become a bibulous charade of Saint Patrick. While contingents advertise their contempt for his Gospel, Nigerians honor Saint Patrick in a different way. A few weeks ago, Nigerian soldiers under attack by the Islamic terrorists of Boko Haram did not masquerade as leprechauns drinking green beer. In a Zambiza forest, they knelt and chanted as their chaplain raised aloft for adoration the same Blessed Sacrament with which Patrick had faced the Druids. Donald Trump issued the first veto of his presidency, overruling Congress to protect his emergency declaration for border wall funding. Washington: President Donald Trump issued the first veto of his presidency, overruling Congress to protect his emergency declaration for border wall funding. Flanked by law enforcement officials as well as the parents of children killed by people in the country illegally, Trump maintained Friday that he is not through fighting for his signature campaign promise, which stands largely unfulfilled 18 months before voters decide whether to grant him another term. "Congress has the freedom to pass this resolution," Trump said, "and I have the duty to veto it." A dozen defecting Republicans joined Senate Democrats in approving the joint resolution on Thursday, which capped a week of confrontation with the White House as both parties in Congress strained to exert their power in new ways. It is unlikely that Congress will have the two-thirds majority required to override Trump's veto, though House Democrats have suggested they would try nonetheless. Trump wants to use the emergency order to divert billions of federal dollars earmarked for defence spending toward the southern border wall. It still faces several legal challenges from Democratic state attorneys general and environmental groups who argue the emergency declaration was unconstitutional. Those cases could block Trump from diverting extra money to barrier construction for months or longer. American Civil Liberties Union, which filed one of the cases, said the veto is meaningless, like the declaration in the first place. "Congress has rejected the president's declaration, and now the courts will be the ultimate arbiter of its legality. We look forward to seeing him in court and to the shellacking that he will receive at the hands of an independent judiciary," said Executive Director Anthony Romero. Trump maintained that the situation on the southern border is "a tremendous national emergency," adding, "our immigration system is stretched beyond the breaking point." Two years into the Trump era, a dozen Republicans, pushed along by Democrats, showed a willingness to take the political risk of defecting. The 12 GOP senators, including the party's 2012 presidential nominee, Mitt Romney of Utah, joined the dissent over the emergency declaration order that would enable the president to seize for the wall billions of dollars Congress intended to be spent elsewhere. "The Senate's waking up a little bit to our responsibilities," said Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., who said the chamber had become "a little lazy" as an equal branch of government. "I think the value of these last few weeks is to remind the Senate of our constitutional place." Many lawmakers said the vote was not necessarily a rejection of the president or the wall, but protections against future presidents namely a Democrat who might want to declare an emergency on climate change, gun control or any number of other issues. Thursday's vote was the first direct challenge to the 1976 National Emergencies Act, just as a Wednesday vote on Yemen was the first time Congress invoked the decades-old War Powers Act to try to rein in a president. That resolution seeking to end US backing for the Saudi Arabian-led coalition fighting in Yemen was approved in the aftermath of the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul and is expected to be the subject of Trump's second veto. Despite the embarrassing defections, Trump's grip on the party remains strong and the White House made it clear that Republicans resisting Trump could face political consequences. Ahead of the voting, Trump framed the issue as with-him-or-against-him on border security, a powerful argument with many. But Friday, Trump said he had sympathy for Republicans who voted against him and emphasized that he never truly twisted the arms of lawmakers, because he knew there were not enough votes to override the veto. "Look, they were doing what they have to do," Trump said, insisting he "put no pressure" on lawmakers to vote against the resolution. Still, a White House official said Trump won't forget when senators who opposed him want him to attend fundraisers or provide other help. The official was not authorized to speak publicly on internal deliberations so spoke on condition of anonymity. The names and other details are being released of the three migrants from El Salvador found in a county attorneys car in January. Jeff Davis County Attorney Teresa Todd was found with three undocumented migrants in her car on Jan. 28th. Todds attorney, Liz Rogers, told CBS7 on Friday that the three migrants from El Salvador are siblings, and during their around 70-mile trek from Presidio to near Marfa, one of them came down with an illness. Rogers said 18-year-old Esmeralda Sarai Orellana-Lazo , 20-year-old Francisco Esteban Orellana-Lazo, and 22-year-old Carlos Saul Orellana-Lazo were walking for several days without food or water. Todd told CBS7 exclusively that she was being a Good Samaritan, and didnt do anything wrong when she stopped to let three people who were walking along the road near the Jeff Davis- Presidio County line into her car. But Presidio County Sheriff Danny Dominguez said he believes Todd knew what she was doing and broke the law by transporting the undocumented migrants. Todd was stopped by a Presidio County Deputy who saw her car leaving the area. Sheriff Dominguez said the deputy was responding to that area because another person called about a man walking alongside the road needing assistance. The sheriff told CBS7 previously that the deputy discovered the three were in the county illegally, and so U.S. Customs and Border Protection was called to take control of the situation. The sheriff said Todd made calls to try to gain the migrants asylum. Dominguez added that several hours later Todd was released by CBP agents. The next day, Todd hired Alpine-based attorney Liz Rogers. On Friday, we learned more about the identities of those migrants and the status of the case. Teresa Todds attorney Liz Rogers said three migrant siblings from El Salvador experienced the elements for days. They indicated that they were giving up because they were lost, and they had walked all the way from Presidio and they had been arrested north of Marfa, which is about 70 miles, she said. Rogers said the migrant siblings didnt have food or water and Esmeralda Orellana-Lazo became sick. The nurses tell me the one woman, shes the 18-year-old, she was suffering from Rhabdomyolysis, and thats when your body starts shutting down to die. Your muscles are turning against you because of dehydration, she said. Rogers said at some point, after U.S. Customs and Border Protection took the siblings into custody, the El Salvadorian was taken to Big Bend Regional Medical Center in Alpine. Two days after she was taken there, Rogers visited the migrant. She was really weak, in fact, I was kind of shocked. Because I knew she was young, and Id hoped she could rebound. But she was really very very wobbly, weak, hard to walk, when she was coming out of the shower. She had the catheter still on, the nurse just said ooh this lady was in bad shape, the attorney said. Within the last several weeks, the migrant brothers were charged with illegal entry. Supervisory Assistant Federal Public Defender Chris Carlin of Alpine is representing the siblings. In an interview with the Big Bend Sentinel, Carlin said the brothers have been admonished as material witnesses, and the trial date of April 1st was set because there wasnt an advantage to them entering a plea. Rogers said the Pecos Federal Grand Jury convened Thursday and to her knowledge, Todd was not indicted. CBS7 contacted the office of Carlin, and multiple officials at the Texas Western District Court for additional comments and have requested court documents, but was unable to provide them by print date of this article. Pakistan owes China at least USD 10 billion for the construction of the Gwadar port and other projects, a top US general said. Between 2013 and 2018, China increased its air and sea incursions into the SCS twelve-fold. (Photo:File) Washington: Pakistan owes its "all weather friend" China at least USD 10 billion for the construction of the Gwadar port and other projects, a top US general said as he underlined Beijing's "predatory economics" to expand its global influence. The strategic Gwadar Port in Balochistan province is being built by China under the multi-billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and is considered to be a link between Beijing's ambitious One Belt, One Road (OBOR) and Maritime Silk Road projects. "Let us look at just a few examples. Saddled with predatory Chinese loans, Sri Lanka granted China a 99-year lease and 70 per cent stake in its deep-water port," General Joseph Dunford, Chairman of US Joint Chiefs of Staff, told a Senate Armed Services Committee on Thursday. The Maldives owes China roughly USD 1.5 billion--about 30 per cent of its GDP - for construction costs, he said. "China is diligently building an international network of coercion through predatory economics to expand its sphere of influence," he said, adding that nations around the globe are discovering the hard way that China's economic "friendship" via OBOR can come at "a steep cost" when promises of investment go unfulfilled and international standards and safeguards are ignored. General Dunford warned that if China's predatory debt tactics are left unaddressed, it will have serious implications on the US military. Alleging that China is extending its reach by increasing its overt military and coercive activities through its neighbours, Dunford said China's increasingly provocative behaviour in the Indo-Pacific, particularly the South China Sea (SCS), should concern all. Between 2013 and 2018, China increased its air and sea incursions into the SCS twelve-fold. Within those five years, it also increased deployments of offensive and defensive weapons systems to the SCS by the same order of magnitude, he said. The president of the Indian bishops appeals to the faithful and pastors. The general elections will take place on seven dates, from 11 April to 19 May. The secretary of the Bishops' Conference asked for voting not to be hold on Holy Thursday. Card Gracias emphasizes: "India needs leaders who understand that authority is a service". New Delhi (AsiaNews) - Voting is a "sacred obligation: do so wisely". This is the appeal launched by Card. Oswald Gracias, archbishop of Mumbai and president of the Indian Bishops' Conference (CBCI). He addresses all the bishops and the Catholic faithful of India, inviting them to go to vote at the upcoming general elections, which will take place on seven dates between 11 April and 19 May. While about 900 million people are expected at the polls, the Cardinal points out: "Every single vote counts. We owe it to ourselves, to our children and to our country, to exercise this sacred duty and to involve ourselves in improving the direction of our nation . Card Gracias says that India "needs leaders who understand that authority is a service". For this reason he lists the most burning national issues that future administrators will have to respond to: an economy to support the poor and the disadvantaged; create a healthy environment for all citizens, especially women and children; safeguarding the rights of tribals on land, water and forests; take care of dalits and abolish discrimination against them; to promote harmony between communities and interreligious dialogue; protect the environment, preserving the richness of nature for future generations. Beside the president of the bishops who remembers the supreme duty of every citizen to vote, the voice of Msgr. Theodore Mascarenhas, general secretary of the CBCI, who in another appeal asks that the elections not be held on Holy Thursday. He intervenes following the discontent that has spread in the Indian Catholic community, which disputes the calendar of votes set during Holy Week. On 18 April, Holy Thursday several Indian states will vote: Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Manipur, Orissa, Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. Throughout the country, the Catholic community is made up of 20 million faithful. Monsignor Mascarenhas points out that his appeal "has no religious purpose, it just wants to express the logistical difficulties" connected to the date of the vote. For the Christians of India, where Holy Thursday is not a public holiday, "it is already very difficult to be able to participate in prayers, asking for holidays at work or permits to leave the offices early". Added to this is the moral obligation to serve the country, both attending the polling stations and voting at the polls. Respecting both religious and civic duties, "will be very difficult", adds the secretary. As for Card. Gracias, he expresses the need to give some "guidelines to our people for the good of the country". India, he underlines, "has made great progress in the scientific and technological fields, infrastructure and public services have improved". At the same time, critical aspects remain: The great difference between rich and poor; day laborers struggling to survive; farmers under pressure; ethics that is no longer the guiding principle of society and seems to have been supplanted by the economy as a driving force for decisions ". For all these reasons, in conclusion he suggests that in order to choose the best for our country. We must vote judiciously ". Behind the forced expropriations the army has adduced national security issues. However, more than half of the land has been used to develop settlements or roads for the benefit of Jewish settlers over time. The owners have never been compensated. The Netanyahu government has accelerated the expansion policy. Jerusalem (AsiaNews) - In the last 50 years, Israel has expropriated over 10 thousand hectares of land originally belonging to the Palestinians, claiming issues related to national security; however, almost half of the land was granted to Jewish settlers in the West Bank. This is what emerges from a report recently published by Kerem Navot, an Israeli non-governmental organization that monitored the growth of settlements and the expropriation operations promoted by the government in the West Bank between 1969 and 2014. According to activists, about 47% of the land requisitioned using laws and regulations that fall under the category of "urgent military needs" are used today for settlements or as access roads to settlements. Some of these, at first, were used for military infrastructure or army depots. Over the years, buildings and land were granted in usufruct to settlers. The settlements are communities inhabited by Israeli civilians and military and built in the territories conquered by Israel after the Six-Day War of June 1967, in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, the Golan Heights and the Gaza Strip. In 1979, Israel withdrew from settlements in Sinai after signing the peace agreement with Egypt, and in 2005 the then Prime Minister Ariel Sharon ordered the dismantling of 17 Israeli settlements in the Gaza Strip. Currently the colonies - illegal under international law - are located in East Jerusalem, the West Bank and the Golan Heights. According to data from the Israeli Ministry of the Interior, those recognized in the West Bank are at least 133 - in addition to a hundred outposts - and host about 500,000 people. In East Jerusalem there are about 300,000 Israelis and 20,000 in the Golan Heights. Interviewed by the AFP, Israeli military leaders say they are not aware of the report, but that it "will be studied by the competent authorities". The author of the research, Dror Etkes, explains that the first wave of settlements took place under a Labor-led government, considered moderate, between 1967 and 1977. At that time, the researcher added,"the concept of land seizure" which then went to the settlers began to gain ground. The peak would have occurred between 1979 and 1983, with the Likud [current ruling party] in power in the country. International and humanitarian law provides that these land expropriations are temporary and that the owners are adequately compensated. None of this has ever happened and the practice has continued to be used over time, undergoing a further acceleration in the last period. In fact, under the Netanyahu government, there has been a considerable increase. In recent years the number has increased by 20%, a consequence also of the interruption of peace talks in 2014 and the subsequent escalation of violence, before which the inertia (or impotence) of the international community has proved increasingly evident. Linda Colter Lundy died on March 14, 2019, at the age of 67, in her home after a prolonged illness. The daughter of the late Ray and Ruth Colter, native of Natchez, Ms., and longtime Chattanooga resident, Linda is survived by her husband, McKinley; children, Anna, Mack, Sarah, and Adam, and grandchildren, Lily, Charlie, Trillium, and Forrester, and two sisters and brothers-in-law, Sandra and Eddie Burkes and Susan and Guy Hollingsworth. Linda completed her BA and MA in history at the University of Mississippi and worked as a substitute teacher for many years at Ooltewah High School. A lifelong loving and dedicated Presbyterian, Linda was active in her session and volunteered regularly to support both her congregations and UTCs Presbyterian Campus Ministry at the Hope House,which, like Linda, shares love to students through food, hospitality, and unconditional kindness. A memorial service will be held at Rivermont Presbyterian Church, 3319 Hixson Pike in Chattanooga on March 23, at 2 p.m. with a reception for family and friends to follow at the Hope House. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages those wishing to honor Lindas memory to make donations to the Hope House. For more information on how to donate, go to www.hopeutc.org/donate. Arrangements are by Lane Funeral Home, 601 Ashland Terrace, Chattanooga, Tn. 37415, 423 877-3524, Lanefh.com. Last year I wrote posts supporting Marsha Blackburn for the U.S. Senate from Tennessee. Her opponent, multi-millionaire Democrat Phil Bredesen, spent months dancing around many of the big issues hoping to waltz his way into office. One of those big issues was the border wall. I appreciate every single voter who examined the candidates and decided which would support the man Tennessee helped to elected president in 2016. And they saw through the DNC commercials designed to bamboozle voters into supporting their candidate. This week, the candidate we elected voted no to the Democrats resolution condemning President Trumps declaration of an emergency regarding the southern border. Ill leave the readers to imagine how Waltzin Phil would have voted. In July of 2014, Karen Tumulty of the Washington Post described the tens of thousands of immigrant children streaming across the border as a crisis. Further in her article she called it an emergency. But on Jan. 8 of this year, Tumulty changed her tune in order to fit their current narrative. Appearing on MSNBC, Tumulty said regarding the current border situation, We are headed to this extraordinary situation where the president (Trump) declares a state of emergency that doesnt exist. Seventy-six thousand people came into America illegally across the southern border last month (Source: New York Times, March 5, 2019) but now Tumulty doesnt call that a crisis. Thousands more were turned away by the Border Patrol, but that doesnt constitute an emergency to Ms. Tumulty either. Disingenuous stuff posing as journalism is exactly why Trump and Blackburn were elected. With Democrats and the subjective news media a crisis is only a crisis or an emergency an emergency when one of their side is using it to bash their enemies. This pathetic farce played out in the Congress was nothing more than another obstructionist step in the plan Democrats have been waging since Trump was elected. What their party has to offer is nothing but resistance and the weekly promise of a new giveaway program requiring more confiscation of our hard earned wages. No wonder they want to raise the minimum wage, they plan to gobble it up in new taxes to pay for their latest trillion dollar giveaway scheme. It should be obvious to Americans all Democrats have is their fanatic obsession with trying to overturn the last presidential election before President Trump can appoint more constitutionalists to federal judgeships. And failing at that, they hope to get in power by promising more and more free stuff. So thank you, Marsha, for keeping your promise to support the President. And thank you again Tennesseans for rejecting the solicitous candidate who would now be eating a sack lunch with a group of actors while a real crisis is ongoing at our southern border. Perhaps Waltzin Phil can have more time to eat and possibly take a few lessons from Beto ORourke on how to dance on lunch counters after he finishes his sack lunch. Ralph Miller Here is the latest jail booking report from Hamilton County: ALLEN, LATOYA MICHELLE 2612 GLENWOOD PKWY APT 3 CHATTANOOGA, 37404 Age at Arrest: 34 years old Arresting Agency: Hamilton County DRIVING WITHOUT DRIVERS LICENSE / EXPIRED LICENSE FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY --- BARKER JR, JAMES EVERETT 507 FARMWAY DRIVE S.E. CLEVELAND, 37323 Age at Arrest: 30 years old Arresting Agency: Hamilton County EXPLOTATION OF A MINOR BY ELECTRONIC MEANS SEXUAL BATTERY BY AUTHORITY FIGURE SEXUAL CONTACT BY AN AUTHORITY FIGURE --- BIBBS, ANN MICHELLE 3401 CAMPBELL ST APT 711 CHATTANOOGA, 37406 Age at Arrest: 36 years old Arresting Agency: Chattanooga THEFT UNDER $1,000 --- BLAKEMORE, DONNIE WAYNE 1028 WILSON RD ROSSVILLE, 30741 Age at Arrest: 44 years old Arresting Agency: Hamilton County Booked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s) --- BONDS, DOMINIQUE LATRELL 3809 WOODBROOK DR CHATTANOOGA, 37406 Age at Arrest: 29 years old Arresting Agency: Chatt. Housing AuthorityAGGRAVATED CRIMINAL TRESSPASSRESISTING ARREST OR OBSTRUCTION OF LEGAL PROCESSDRUGS GENERAL CATEGORY FOR RESALETAMPERING WITH OR FABRICATING EVIDENCE---BOYKIN, COREY ANTONIO1190 N MOORE RD CHATTANOOGA, 37411Age at Arrest: 45 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyCONTEMPT OF COURT---BOZZA, TIFFANY SUZANNE7604 STANDIFER GAP RD CHATTANOOGA, 374211182Age at Arrest: 39 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaTHEFT OF PROPERTY UNDER $1,000.00DRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSEDOMESTIC ASSAULT---BYRD, TAMAHRA MYISHA641 SYLVAN DR CHATTANOOGA, 37411Age at Arrest: 31 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyDRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE---COLEMAN, MISTY SUE801 SNOW ST OOLTEWAH, 37363Age at Arrest: 41 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaREGISTRATION, UNLAWFUL REMOVAL OF DECAL OR PLATEILLEGAL PARKINGREGISTRATION, IMPROPER DISPLAY OF PLATES---DARBY, DAVID HAROLD2706 ORCHARD AVE CHATTANOOGA, 37407Age at Arrest: 65 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaPUBLIC INTOXICATION---EILDERS, LON6240 CANOE LANE CHATTANOOGA, 37416Age at Arrest: 41 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyPUBLIC INTOXICATIONVANDALISM/MALICIOUS MISCHIEF---EVANS, DEWAYNE LYNELL3840 ROLLINGWOOD DR CHATTANOOGA, 37406Age at Arrest: 21 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountySPEEDINGFUGITIVE (ARREST FOR CRIME IN GORDON CO, GA)---FEKETE, ALEXIS NICOLE4567 KEITH ROAD RINGGOLD, 30746Age at Arrest: 18 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountySIMPLE POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA---GILLESPIE, ALEXANDRIA RENEE3930 JUNIPER STREET CHATTANOOGA, 37421Age at Arrest: 26 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyNONSUPPORT AND FLAGRANT NONSUPPORT---GLADDEN, JEREMY RYAN2456 MOUNT VERNON COHUTTA, 30710Age at Arrest: 29 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaPOSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIADRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE---HALL, NINA PLESHETTE4007 15TH AVE CHATTANOOGA, 37404Age at Arrest: 38 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyDRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE---HARRIS, RONALD DEVAUGHN718 SNOW ST CHATTANOOGA, 37405Age at Arrest: 55 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaALTERING, FALSIFYING OR FORGING EVIDENCES OF TITLEFINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITYDRIVING LEFT OF CENTER LINEREGISTRATION, UNLAWFUL REMOVAL OF DECAL OR PLATE---HENDLEY, RONNIE NEWSON2301 GREEN FOREST DR CHATTANOOGA, 374062611Age at Arrest: 39 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaBooked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)---HERNY, CASSANDRA307 2ND STREET SOUTH PITTSBURGH, 37380Age at Arrest: 28 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyVIOLATION OF PROBATION (THEFT OF PROPERTY)---JACINTO, DAVID4113 CLIO AVE CHATTANOOGA, 37407Age at Arrest: 27 years oldArresting Agency: OtherBooked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)---JOHNSON, IRVING DILMON1215 POPLAR ST APT H CHATTANOOGA, 37411Age at Arrest: 29 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaDRIVING ON SUSPENDED LICENSEREGISTRATION, IMPROPER DISPLAY OF PLATESFINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITYLIGHT LAW VIOLATIONDRIVERS TO EXERCISE DUE CARE---JOSHEN, MARIEO DONTRELL2300 WINDSOR STREET APT 101 CHATTANOOGA, 37406Age at Arrest: 23 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyVIOLATION OF PROBATION (EVADING ARREST)VIOLATION OF PROBATION (DRIVING ON REVOKED LICENSEVIOLATION OF PROBATION (THEFT OF PROPERTY)VIOLATION OF PROBATION (POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA)VIOLATION OF PROBATION (THEFT OF PROPERTY)VIOLATION OF PROBATION (UNL. CARYING A DANGEROUS W---KEETON, OLIVIA RAI6013 WENTWORTH AVE EAST RIDGE, 37412Age at Arrest: 25 years oldArresting Agency: East RidgeDOMESTIC ASSAULT---KENNEDY, HALEY MCCALL1335 HIGHLAND WAY HIXSON, 37343Age at Arrest: 27 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaDRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSEVIOLATION OF PROBATION (POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED S---LEE, JACKIE CHARLES5227 WOODLAND VIEW CIRCLE CHATTANOOGA, 37410Age at Arrest: 36 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaSEXUAL BATTERY---LOLLIS, SHANEL LYNNETTE2304 WINSOR SST CHATTANOOGA, 37406Age at Arrest: 40 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyVIOLATION OF PROBATION (THEFT OVER $1000)---LUETKE, CHARLES WARREN951 OSAGE DR SODDY DAISY, 37379Age at Arrest: 47 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyTHEFT OF PROPERTYTHEFT OF PROPERTYTHEFT OF PROPERTYTHEFT OF PROPERTY---MCPHAIL, SHAWN EDWARD5114 ELDGRIDGE RD HIXSON, 37343Age at Arrest: 40 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaTHEFT UNDER $1,000---METCALF, AMY ELIZABETH609 N VALLEY DR CHATTANOOGA, 37415Age at Arrest: 25 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyBooked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)---MOORE, CALEB ANTHONY4401 WOODLAND DRIVE OOLTEWAH, 37363Age at Arrest: 22 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyDRIVING UNDER INFLUENCE---MORALES, MELISSA M5102 OLD TRAIL APT A RED BANK, 37415Age at Arrest: 24 years oldArresting Agency: Red BankDRIVING ON REVOKEDOPEN CONTAINERPOSS.OF DRUG PARA.LEAVING THE SCENE OF AN ACCIDENTDRIVING ON REVOKED---MORGAN, OSCAR N393 SIMS GOODWIN ROAD MCDONALD, 37353Age at Arrest: 35 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyVIOLATION OF PROBATION (FRAUDULENTLY OBTAINING TEN---MORGAN, SABRINA G8108 HOLLY HILLS ROAD CHATTANOOGA, 37421Age at Arrest: 36 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyFALSE REPORTS---MORRIS, LOVETAVIA2000 WINDSOR ST CHATTANOOGA, 37406Age at Arrest: 18 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaSIMPLE ASSAULT---NELSON, GERALD WAYLON1915 DODDS AVE CHATTANOOGA, 37404Age at Arrest: 28 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyVIOLATION OF PROBATION (AGGRAVATED BURGLARY - OCCU---OLIVER, RICKY4752 GREEN SHANTY ROAD OOTLEWAH, 37363Age at Arrest: 25 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountySPEEDING 86 MPH IN 45 MPH ZONEFINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY---PATTERSON, WHITNEY GABRIELLE71 SPRING MEADOWS DRIVE RINGGOLD, 30736Age at Arrest: 31 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyVIOLATION OF PROBATION (BURGLARY OF AUTO)VIOLATION OF PROBATION (BURGLARY OF AUTO)---POINDEXTER, TRAMMEL ERIC205 NORTH SUITE BROW CHATTANOOGA, 37401Age at Arrest: 29 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyVIOLATION OF PROBATION (AGGRAVATED ROBBERY)VIOLATION OF PROBATION (ATTEMPT AGGRAVATED ROBBERY---REED, JEFFREY3719 KELLY FERY RD CHATTANOOGA, 37419Age at Arrest: 21 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyAGGRAVATED DOMESTIC ASSAULTESPECIALLY AGGRAVATED KIDNAPPING---ROBINSON, ALICE D6801 LEE HWY APT 120 CHATTANOOGA, 37401Age at Arrest: 68 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaASSAULT---SANDERS, JEFFREY TRAVIS30549 CANE DR ALBERMARLE, 28001Age at Arrest: 31 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyVIOLATION OF PROBATION (VIOLATION OF SEX OFFENDER---SEIDEL, KEITH DANIEL771 SALEM ROAD ROSSVILLE, 30741Age at Arrest: 30 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaTHEFT OF PROPERTY---SHUPE, CHARLES EDWINHOMELESS CHATTANOOGA, 37404Age at Arrest: 54 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaPUBLIC INTOXICATION---SISK, MARY ELIZABETH3317 MTN VIEW DR CHATTANOOGA, 37419Age at Arrest: 33 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyPOSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE---STAKICH, KOLTON S1605 BANCROFT RD MCDONALD, 37353Age at Arrest: 21 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyBooked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)---STRICKLAND, ANDREA SHANILLE2117 WINDSOR ST CHATTANOOGA,Age at Arrest: 34 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaTHEFT OF PROPERTYCRIMINAL IMPERSONATIONFELONY POSSESION OF HEROINPOSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA---THOMAS, MICHAEL JEROME2505 KIRBY AVE CHATTANOOGA, 37404Age at Arrest: 44 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaFAILURE TO APPEARVIOLATION OF PROBATION (POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED S---TRAMMELL, KENNETH LEBRON5319 DORSEY ST CHATTANOOGA, 37410Age at Arrest: 26 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaSPEEDING 68 MPH IN 40 MPH ZONEDRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE---WALKER, SHAYONNA DANYE1224 POPLAR ST APT F CHATTANOOGA, 37402Age at Arrest: 22 years oldArresting Agency: East RidgeBooked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)---WYSONG, STEPHEN MICHAEL6872 ROBIN DR CHATTANOOGA, 37421Age at Arrest: 26 years oldArresting Agency: ChattanoogaDRIVERS TO EXERCISE DUE CAREDRIVING LEFT OF CENTER LINEIMPROPER TURN (MOTOR VEHICLE)SPEEDINGDRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCEFINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITYVIOLATING AUTO REGISTRATION LAWDRIVERS TO EXERCISE DUE CARE---ZUNIGA, RODRIGO JAVIER6902 SANDY COVE DRIVE HARRISON, 37341Age at Arrest: 40 years oldArresting Agency: Hamilton CountyDRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE Here are the mug shots: ALLEN, LATOYA MICHELLE Age at Arrest: 34 Date of Birth: 10/08/1984 Arresting Agency: Hamilton County Last Date of Arrest: 03/15/2019 Charge(s): DRIVING WITHOUT DRIVERS LICENSE / EXPIRED LICENSE FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY BARKER JR, JAMES EVERETT Age at Arrest: 30 Date of Birth: 03/03/1989 Arresting Agency: Hamilton County Last Date of Arrest: 03/15/2019 Charge(s): EXPLOTATION OF A MINOR BY ELECTRONIC MEANS SEXUAL BATTERY BY AUTHORITY FIGURE SEXUAL CONTACT BY AN AUTHORITY FIGURE BIBBS, ANN MICHELLE Age at Arrest: 36 Date of Birth: 06/11/1982 Arresting Agency: Chattanooga Last Date of Arrest: 03/15/2019 Charge(s): THEFT UNDER $1,000 BLAKEMORE, DONNIE WAYNE Age at Arrest: 44 Date of Birth: 01/08/1975 Arresting Agency: Hamilton County Last Date of Arrest: 03/15/2019 Booked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s) BONDS, DOMINIQUE LATRELL Age at Arrest: 29 Date of Birth: 05/26/1989 Arresting Agency: Chatt. Housing Authority Last Date of Arrest: 03/15/2019 Charge(s): AGGRAVATED CRIMINAL TRESSPASS RESISTING ARREST OR OBSTRUCTION OF LEGAL PROCESS DRUGS GENERAL CATEGORY FOR RESALE TAMPERING WITH OR FABRICATING EVIDENCE BOYKIN, COREY ANTONIO Age at Arrest: 45 Date of Birth: 11/17/1973 Arresting Agency: Hamilton County Last Date of Arrest: 03/15/2019 Charge(s): CONTEMPT OF COURT BOZZA, TIFFANY SUZANNE Age at Arrest: 39 Date of Birth: 01/17/1980 Arresting Agency: Chattanooga Last Date of Arrest: 03/15/2019 Charge(s): THEFT OF PROPERTY UNDER $1,000.00 DRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE DOMESTIC ASSAULT BYRD, TAMAHRA MYISHA Age at Arrest: 31 Date of Birth: 06/16/1987 Arresting Agency: Hamilton County Last Date of Arrest: 03/15/2019 Charge(s): DRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE COLEMAN, MISTY SUE Age at Arrest: 41 Date of Birth: 05/09/1977 Arresting Agency: Chattanooga Last Date of Arrest: 03/15/2019 Charge(s): REGISTRATION, UNLAWFUL REMOVAL OF DECAL OR PLATE ILLEGAL PARKING REGISTRATION, IMPROPER DISPLAY OF PLATES DARBY, DAVID HAROLD Age at Arrest: 65 Date of Birth: 01/17/1954 Arresting Agency: Chattanooga Last Date of Arrest: 03/15/2019 Charge(s): PUBLIC INTOXICATION Sarah Fergie Ferguson married Prince Andrew in 1986 and just six years later, the couple announced that they were separating. In 1996, their divorce was finalized but they remained close with one another and people have had a lot of questions about their relationship over the years. One thing many have wondered is if the Duchess of York still wears her engagement ring today. Heres the answer to that plus why Fergies sister-in-law, Princess Diana, continued to wear hers after she and Charles separated. Prince Andrew, Duke of York with Sarah Ferguson | John Shelley Collection/Avalon/Getty Images Does Fergie still wear her engagement ring? The prince and Ferguson announced their engagement on March 16, 1986, and the world got to see the rock Andrew proposed with. The ring was a large Burmese ruby surrounded by 10 diamonds which formed a flower pattern on a yellow gold band. We came to the mutual conclusion that red was probably the best color for Sarah., the prince told the media during their announcement. Thats how we came to the choice of the ruby. The extra bits around the outside, we wanted something that was slightly unconventional. Sarah Fergusons engagement ring | Gavin/Mirrorpix/Getty Images The pair separated in 1992, but Ferguson continued to wear her ring for years after that. She was spotted with the sparkler on her hand on Dec. 7, 1995. Photographers snapped shots of the duchess wearing it again on Sept. 6, 2000. That time the ring was on display when she and Andrew posed for pictures with their daughter, Beatrice, on her first day at a new school. The following year, Fergie had it on again when Princess Eugenie started the new school. However, the duchess of York has not been seen wearing the ring since 2001. Why Princess Diana still wore hers after she and Charles separated Like Ferguson, Princess Diana wore her sapphire engagement ring years after she split from Prince Charles. She also wore her wedding band until the pair officially divorced in 1996. Princess Dianas engagement ring on Kate Middleton | ARTHUR EDWARDS/AFP/Getty Images) Marie Claire noted that the reason why the princess kept wearing her rings was out of respect for her sons. Prince William and Prince Harry were still young at the time of their parents separation and because Diana wanted to keep things as normal as possible for them, she continued to wear the jewelry. She was spotted without it for the first time at a movie premiere in London in 1996. Where are the rings today? While it is not known where Ferguson keeps her ring today everyone knows where Princess Dianas ring is. In 2010, Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton with his mothers stunning piece of jewelry. Dianas ring though was actually left for Harry but he gave it to his brother to use when he popped the question. Seven years later, Harry asked Meghan Markle to marry him with a custom-made ring that included diamonds from Dianas personal jewelry collection. Read more: Who Everyone Thought Prince Andrew Was Going To Marry Before Sarah Ferguson Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook! Chrissy Teigen and John Legend are one of the cutest power couples in all of Hollywood! It seems as if the pair were simply made for each other, with Chrissy inspiring some of her husbands most successful songs, and John doting on his wife at all times. As the parents of two children, Luna and Miles, the couple has long since proved that they definitely have staying power. They take their fair share of backlash in the media and always manage to come out of it just a little stronger, defending each other and more than proving their love and dedication. While it may seem that the pair has been together forever, lets step back a minute and start from the beginning. How did Chrissy Teigen and John Legend meet? How did the couple get their start? Chrissy Teigen and John Legend first made each others acquaintance in 2007, on the set of Johns video for his song, Stereo. The story is actually very amusing, as Chrissy, who was only 21 years old at the time, actually walked in on her future husband ironing his underwear! They shared a good laugh and got to work shooting the video. Little did they know what their future held! It was not serious from the beginning Later that night, Chrissy, a model, and John shared a casual burger together and had what they refer to as a hookup. Afterward, they exchanged goodbyes and went their separate ways, both eager to move on with their growing careers. Obviously, neither one of them expected to end up in a relationship, let alone married with children! There wasnt much of a relationship at first, with the two only reaching out to each other on occasion, and not showing much interest at being together. Chrissy joins John on tour A few months later, the couple took the next step when Chrissy joined John on a tour. At that point, they were declaring their love for each other, having shared many phone conversations and text messages during the previous weeks. Although they seemed to be quite smitten with each other, it wasnt long before John tried to put an end to the relationship! Thankfully, it did not last more than 24 hours, because apparently, Chrissy wouldnt let him go through with it. We are certainly glad that she put her foot down, or they may not have become the funny, loving, and much-adored couple that they are today. Visiting their future wedding destination After a few more months of falling for each other even more, Chrissy and John took an all-important trip to Lake Como, Italy. The destination was extremely meaningful as it would be the place where they would eventually exchange wedding vows! The wedding day wouldnt come for a few more years, however, leaving plenty of time for the two to get to know each other even better. Getting engaged and finally married By the time 2011 rolled around, John Legend and Chrissy Teigen knew that they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together. The couple came back from a trip to the Maldives with Chrissy sporting an engagement ring on her finger, and that was the beginning of something beautiful! John went on to dedicate his hit song, All of Me to his fiance, a song that brought tears to her eyes. In September of 2013, the couple returned to Lake Como, Italy, for a wedding that was both beautiful and unforgettable. Several years later, they made the exciting announcement that their first child, a daughter was on the way, and soon after that, they welcomed their first son. This is one couple that is still going strong, as their love seems to grow deeper with each passing day! According to new reports, actress Lori Loughlin has been fired from the fifth and final season of Netflixs Fuller House. This comes on the heels of Loughlins involvement in the college admissions cheating scandal. Lori Loughlin | Paul Archuleta/FilmMagic Lori Loughlin paid a bribe for her daughters acceptance at USC Loughlin and her husband, Mossimo Giannulli, are facing criminal charges for participating in a college admissions bribery scheme. Specifically, according to court documents, Loughlin and Giannulli paid $500,000 in exchange for having their two daughters designated as recruits to the USC crew team even though they did not participate in crew thereby facilitating their admission to USC. USC sent a letter to the college community about the scandal In response to the college admissions scandal, the University of Southern California sent a letter to their community to explain they are conducting their own investigation of the matter and began the process of identifying donations that may have been received in connection with the alleged scheme. In the letter, provided to CNBC, USC wrote: We will determine how best to redirect those funds for scholarships benefiting underserved student applicants. The university further noted it would deny admission to applicants in the current admissions cycle who are connected to the alleged scheme and that it has initiated a case-by-case review of current students and graduates who may be connected to the alleged scheme. Loughlin was fired by the Hallmark Channel The Hallmark Channel was swift in firing Loughlin in the wake of the scandal, explaining on Twitter: We are saddened by the recent news surrounding the college admissions allegations. We are no longer working with Lori Loughlin and have stopped development of all productions featuring Lori on the Crown Media Family Network channels including #GarageSaleMysteries. They added in a followup tweet: [When Calls the Heart] will not air this Sunday March 17 while we are evaluating all creative options around the When Calls the Heart series. #Hearties please keep checking back to our social for all updates related to the beloved When Calls The Heart. For those fans concerned about the fate of When Calls the Heart, the Hallmark Channel assured them on Twitter: #Hearties, we assure you that Hallmark Channel has no plans to cancel When Calls the Heart. Hope Valley has many more stories left to share and we will let you know the details soon. Loughlin has reportedly been cut loose from Fuller House Though Netflix and the Fuller House social media accounts have yet to release a statement about whether or not Loughlin will appear on the Fuller House final season, Deadline reports that she has been fired from the show. A source remarked: Shes toast, its over of the possibility of Loughlin continuing her recurring guest role as Aunt Becky. Loughlins daughters have reportedly dropped out of USC Loughlin and Giannullis daughters, Olivia Jade and Isabella Rose, are reportedly dropping out of USC following the scandal. A source told PEOPLE that Olivia Jade cant handle anything right now. She seems more and more upset every day. She just wants to stay home. The insider added: She feels she has worked very hard to get different work deals and everything is just gone. She thought she knew what the future had in store for her, and it all just crumbled. Its a never-ending nightmare for her. She understands the serious consequences her parents are facing and she is very scared. Most people who watch the Netflix series Making a Murderer become obsessed with the idea of Steven Avery being innocent and rightfully so. There are plenty of reasons to believe that Avery was wrongfully accused of a major crime for the second time in his life. But with the spotlight trained on Avery, its far too common to neglect another potentially innocent victim. His name? Brendan Dassey. For every person who believes Steven Avery is innocent, there are three who think Dasseys confession was coerced and hes not guilty of anything besides being a vulnerable teen. Did Brendan Dassey really help murder Teresa Halbach? Heres whats going on with him now. Brendan Dassey | Netflix via YouTube Who is Brendan Dassey? Brendan Ray Dassey was born on October 19, 1989. His life changed forever in October 2005 when he was 16 years old. Thats when Dassey was convicted along with his uncle, Steven Avery, for the murder of local photographer Teresa Halbach. Dassey grew up with his parents, three brothers and one half brother on family property thats part of the Avery Salvage Yard in Manitowoc County, Wisconsin. Quiet and reserved, Dassey was found to have an extremely low IQ and required special classes in school. Thats a large part of the reason that people believe Dassey didnt actually commit murder. Why was Brendan Dassey convicted? No one is exactly sure what happened on that fateful 2005 evening. The one thing thats indisputable? A young local photographer was murdered, and there was enough evidence of foul play to get Steven Avery convicted of murder. Brendan Dassey, Averys nephew, was thought to be his accomplice. But the most damning evidence against Dassey was the taped confession where the 16-year-old confessed to helping his uncle murder Teresa Halbach and get rid of the body. Both Dassey and his mother consented to the interrogations, but later the interrogation techniques were ruled clearly involuntary in a constitutional sense by a US magistrate judge. Brendan Dassey later recanted the entire confession. But by then, it was too late. Why is Brendan Dasseys confession so controversial? The first thing that makes Brendan Dasseys confession suspect is that by the time he made it, he was mentally exhausted. The teen was interrogated four times in 48 hours and was questioned three times in just 24 hours. Investigators used a method of questioning called the Reid technique, which is used explicitly to make suspects confess. Critics say it often produces false confessions. Dassey went to trial in 2007 and was tried and sentenced as an adult. After a four hour deliberation, Brendan Dassey was found guilty of first-degree intentional homicide, rape and mutilation of a corpse. Is Brendan Dassey getting out of jail? Prison | Netflix via YouTube Like Steven Avery, Dasseys legal team is working on getting his guilty conviction overturned. Dasseys case was one of the main focuses in the Making a Murderer sequel, which was released in 2018. But even though the documentary made it seem like Dassey would be getting out of prison soon, for now hes still there. Why? The simple answer is that the appeals process is long and difficult, even for a case that seems obvious. Even though the magistrate judge found Dasseys confession unconstitutional in 2016, that doesnt mean hes just getting out of prison. In December 2017, the Seventh Cirtcuit Court upheld Dasseys original guilty conviction in a vote of 4 to 3. Most recently, Dasseys appeal for a retrial was denied. Unless something changes, Brendan Dassey will continue serving his sentence until 2048 when hell be eligible for parole (hell be 59). But his legal team and the Wisconsin Innocence Project hope to get Brendan Dassey released from prison long before that day. Learning a foreign language is part of the royal familys protocol. However, some of the queens family members are more fluent than others. Not to mention: A few of them know up to five languages. How many languages can Prince William speak? Find out, plus the one language he must know before becoming the British heir, ahead. How many languages can Prince William speak? Prince William | PAUL ELLIS/AFP/Getty Images The future king is quite the linguist. Apparently, Prince William can speak five languages, including English. Take a closer look at his linguistic proficiency, below. French French is one language many members of the royal family, including Prince William, have mastered. According to reports, the future heir to the British throne can speak French with ease. Swahili Africa holds a lot of memories for Prince William. So, it comes of no surprise that the Duke of Cambridge can speak a little Swahili. The language can be heard throughout several African countries, including Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and Tanzania. Welsh As the future Prince of Wales, Prince William must learn enough Welsh to converse with those fluent in the language. Its unclear how fluent he is in Welsh, but the Duke of Cambridge can speak the language. In preparation for becoming Prince of Wales, Prince Charles also learned Welsh as a young boy. While hes not fluent, he allegedly knows enough to get by. Gaelic In addition to Welsh, Prince William also knows a little Gaelic. His Royal Highness likely speaks the language or phrases while visiting parts of Northern Ireland and Scotland. Prince Charles can also speak Gaelic. What languages do other members of the royal family speak? Prince William isnt the only one with impressive linguistic skills. In addition to the Duke of Cambridge, several members of the royal family can speak foreign languages and are even fluent in some. Here are all the languages spoken by the British royal family. French Prince William knows French, but hes not the only one. His great-grandmother, Queen Elizabeth is fluent in the language and learned as a young girl (her tutor and governess, Marion Crawford likely taught her). Like his wife, Prince Philip can also speak French and so can their children. Prince Charles, Prince Andrew, Prince Edward, and Princess Anne all speak French. Apparently, Meghan Markle also knows a little French, but her fluency is unclear. German German isnt the most popular foreign language in the royal family, but Prince Philip is fluent in it. According to reports, the Duke of Edinburgh grew up speaking the language, as it was one of the languages spoken by his family members. Spanish Prince George and Princess Charlotte are currently learning the second most spoken language in the world, Spanish in school. In addition, their Spanish-speaking nanny, Maria Turrion Borrallo helps tutor them. Tagalog One member of the royal family knows a little Tagalog, aka the language of the Philippines. While visiting Edinburgh with Prince Harry, Meghan Markle was overheard saying Salamat Po, which means thank you in the foreign language. Its likely that the Duchess of Sussex might only know a few words and phrases in Tagalog. Russian Some royals even speak Russian. Prince Michael of Kent and his wife, Princess Michael both know the foreign language. Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook! On Friday, March 15, 50 people were killed and 20 more were injured in a mass shooting that took place in two mosques in the Soth Island city of Christchurch. The terrorist attack appeared to have been carried out by a white nationalist who posted a racist manifesto online and streamed live video of the killings on Facebook, reports The New York Times. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern called the incident an extraordinary act of unprecedented violence and New Zealands darkest day. It is clear that this can now only be described as a terrorist attack, said Ardern. From what we know, it does appear to have been well planned. The suspect, 28-year-old Brenton Tarrant, has been charged with murder. The United States strongly condemns the attack in Christchurch. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with the people of New Zealand and their government against this vicious act of hate, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement to People. The Royals | Kirsty Wigglesworth WPA Pool/Getty Images Kensington Palaces statement on the shooting Kensington Palace has released a statement on behalf of Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, Prince William, and Kate Middleton in response to the New Zealand terror attack. Our hearts go out to the families and friends of the people who lost their lives in the devastating attack in Christchurch. We have all been fortunate to spend time in Christchurch and have felt the warm, open-hearted and generous spirit that is core to its remarkable people. No person should ever have to fear attending a sacred place of worship. This senseless attack is an affront to the people of Christchurch and New Zealand, and the broader Muslim community. It is a horrifying assault on a way of life that embodies decency, community, and friendship. We know that from this devastation and deep mourning, the people of New Zealand will unite to show that such evil can never defeat compassion and tolerance. We send our thoughts and prayers to everyone in New Zealand today. Kia Kaha [a Maori phrase that means stay strong], read the statement on Instagram. The royal familys history with New Zealand The royal couples have both visited Christchurch on separate visits to New Zealand before. The Sussexes were there recently, in October in 2018, as part of their 16-day Royal Tour. The last time the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited Christchurch was in 2014. William has also visited the region on solo trips in 2011 and 2005, before his and Kates wedding. New Zealand is part of the Commonwealth, an alliance of 53 member states that are mostly former territories of the British Empire. Queen Elizabeth II has led the Commonwealth for 66 years and last fall, named her son Prince Charles, William and Harrys father, as her successor, reports E! Online. The Queen released her own statement about the mass shooting, in addition to the Sussexes and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. I have been deeply saddened by the appalling events in Christchurch today, she said. Prince Philip and I send our condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives. I also pay tribute to the emergency services and volunteers who are providing support to those who have been injured. At this tragic time, my thoughts and prayers are with all New Zealanders. ELIZABETH R. Read more: Amidst Security Concerns, Meghan Markle Wraps up a Busy Trip to Morocco at 7 Months Pregnant Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook! The British are all excited about the impending birth of the newest member of the Royal Family. Meghan Markle is due sometime in the spring, but Royal couple hasnt officially shared anything much narrower than that. Although at the end of January, during a visit to Birkenhead, she told a member of the crowd she was due in April. Prince Harry has deemed the child our little bump, but the bump is getting quite large! The Duke and Duchess of Sussex claim to not know the gender of the child, and maybe they dont. But then again, maybe they do and are just remaining mum about Baby Sussex. Either way, they must be discussing the potential name for their child, which they are expected to share at the time of his or her birth. Whats in a name? A lot! One of Englands new favorite pastime is booking odds of the name for the future heir. Yes, he or she will be an heir to the throne, seventh in line following his or her father Prince Harry. Although you dont have to be a Brit to wager in. There are online booking sites. Current odds on Ladbrokes for the gender are even for a boy right now and 8/11 for a girl. Odds for what day of the week Baby Sussex will be born are 5/1 across the board. As for the time of day, well . . . we wont get into that one. But, they are also showing odds for the possibility of twins at 3/1. If the babys a boy The publics favorite boy names include Albert and Philip, each receiving 12/1 odds right now on Ladbrokes. Alfred and James come in 16/1, Alexander has 20/1 odds, and Charles and Edward are lower down at 33/1 odds. The Daily Mail shares Arthur and Edward as favored names for a boy. Each name considered, son or daughter, will be steeped in British tradition, despite the babys mum being an American. No doubt if the baby is a boy, hell be welcomed by all of England, but for whatever reason, the country seems to want a baby girl. A little girls name Odds are, and Brits most likely want a daughter to be named Diana after Harrys late mother. The current Ladbrokes odds are 6/1. Victoria is running closely behind at 8/1. Other possibilities include Alice at 12/1, Elizabeth and Mary at 16/1, and Alexandra or Grace at 20/1. The Daily Mail concurs citing another online betting site, William Hill having 10/1 odds for the name Diana. She wouldnt be the first daughter of this generation of Royals honoring the late Princess. Prince William and Kate Middletons daughter Charlottes middle name is Diana. Remembering Princess Diana The former Princes of Wales was actually no longer a princess when she died following a tragic accident on Aug. 31, 1997. She was only 36, and her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, were 15 and 12 (just about to turn 13), respectively. Diana was 12 years younger than Prince Charles. It was a happy time in Britain when Charles and Diana were married in 1981. But it was a strained marriage from the onset, in part because of the difference in age, and in part, because the Prince remained in love with Camilla Parker Bowles, his second wife. Amid royal scandal, Diana and Charles divorced in 1996. England continued to love Diana none-the-less and continue to mourn her 21 years following her death. There is little doubt the country would welcome a new Diana, wholeheartedly. As such, while were not in on the betting game, we are going with the odds for the name of Diana for a daughter. If the baby is a boy, our best guestimate is the name of Arthur. by Emanuele Scimia The Italian government is ready to join the New Silk Roads project, but the president of the EU Chamber of Commerce in China warns that foreign firms success in the Chinese market is not decided by memorandum of understandings. The problem of transparency Italy is set to become the first G7 country and founding member of the EU to formally endorse Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a move that has puzzled the United States and the European Unions institutions. Beijing and Rome are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the latters participation in the BRI during Chinese President Xi Jinpings visit to Italy from March 21-23. Similar agreements on the Chinas megaproject, which is designed to improve trade integration and connectivity across Eurasia and beyond, have already been inked by 13 EU member states. Italian government leaders who have worked on the MoU say it will give their countrys businesses greater access to the vast Chinese market. Mats Harborn, president of the EU Chamber of Commerce in China, is not so sure that there is such a clear link between the two things. The signing of this MoU is more a statement that Italy wants to show its support for the Belt and Road scheme he told AsiaNews. It should be remembered just how competitive the Chinese market is, and business success in China is not decided by such agreements. For Harborn, it is possible that China might offer Italy special access to certain licences or could accelerate approvals, but to do so would be highly problematic at a time when its leadership is doubling down on pledges to provide equal treatment to foreign companies. Since the BRI is potentially very important for a large part of the global economy, we hope that Italys signing signifies a step towards increasing involvement from the EU as a whole, he pointed out. In his view, if the MoU is rightly formulated, with China committing to an open and inclusive BRI based on international norms and standards, the chances of the project becoming sustainable would be vastly increased. On March 15, on the final day of its annual plenary session, the Nationals People Congress (Chinas top legislature) adopted a new foreign-investment law that should ensure a level playing field between domestic and foreign industries. This is a sensitive issue for the EU, which has been negotiating a comprehensive investment agreement with the Asian giant since 2013. If Italys signing of this MoU led to greater transparency, as well as more and equal opportunities for European companies to participate in BRI projects, then it would be a positive step towards reciprocity in procurement practices, particularly as far as the public sector is concerned, Harborn said. After all, Chinese companies enjoy access to the EUs open procurement market and frequently win bids, while European companies have [so far] lacked similar access, both in China and abroad in BRI projects. Transparency is especially important when it comes to Chinas trade and investments practices, which are often seen as opaque and part of a debt-trap diplomacy, with developing countries but also struggling EU countries such as Greece and Portugal becoming heavily dependent on Chinese loans. In this respect, Bonnie Glaser, director of the China Power Project at the Center for Security and Strategic Studies in Washington, noted that if the entire process is transparent, and the Chinese do not force Italy to use Chinese labor and materials, there is nothing wrong with Italian participation in the BRI. Tom Holland widely known for playing Peter Parker in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is worth an estimated $4 million. At only twenty-one years old, Tom Holland is the youngest Avenger. Holland first appeared as Spiderman in the 2016 film Captain America: Civil War. Holland then starred in Spiderman: Homecoming before appearing, most recently, in Avengers: Infinity War. Holland is set to star in a Spiderman led movie titled Spiderman: Far From Home and in the upcoming and highly anticipated Avengers: Endgame. Tom Holland | Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images How much screen time Holland will have in Avengers: Endgame is unknown; however, considering the trailer for Far From Home has already been released, we can assume that he has not been permanently removed from the MCU as a result of the snap. Who is set to come back to life, so to speak, remains to be seen. However, Spiderman seems like a sure-fire bet. What did Tom Holland do before The Avengers? Tom Holland was born in Kingston upon Thames, London in 1996. His father, Dominic Holland, is a Perrier Award-winning comedian and writer. Though starting his education at Donhead, a Roman Catholic preparatory school, Holland went on to attend the BRIT School for Performing Arts and Technology in 2012. Holland soon started dancing for a hip-hop class in his hometown; Lynne Page, the famous choreographer who has worked with the likes of Stephen Sondheim and Kanye West, spotted Holland at a recital. Though he didnt know it then, this would be the moment that forever changed his life. After Page spotted him, Holland went on to make his West-End debut in Billy Elliot The Musical, as Billys best friend Michael; however, he later starred in the title role and received critical praise for his performance. In 2015, Tom Holland would go on to star alongside Mark Rylance in the BBC series Wolf Hall. Holland also starred in The Impossible with Naomi Watts and Ewan Mcgregor in 2012, and In the Heart of the Sea in 2015. Holland appeared in his first MCU film and The Lost City of Z in the same year (2016). Tom Hollands upcoming projects Tom Holland is set to star in several other movies in 2019 and 2020, in addition to Avengers: Endgame and Spiderman: Far From Home. Tom Holland will appear in five films in 2020. So, if youve enjoyed watching Tom Holland on screen, buckle up for a few more blockbusters with this guy in a leading role. According to IMDB, Tom Holland will appear in Uncharted, Cherry, Onward, The Devil of all Time, Chaos Walking, and The Voyage of Dr. Dolittle in 2020. He will also appear in Spies in Disguise later this year. As for Onward and The Voyage of Dr. Dolittle, Holland will serve as a voice actor only. While we wont get to see his face in these two, we will have several other opportunities to watch this man in action. While the plot for several of these films has yet to be announced, The Devil of all Time will follow an odd group of characters from the end of World War II to the 1960s in rural southern Ohio and West Virginia, according to IMDb. In Chaos Walking, Tom Holland will star as Todd Hewitt in a dystopian world without women, where all living creatures can hear each others thoughts, according to IMDb. With several films on the horizon, all of which will likely offer unique and varying plots (and fall within different genres), Tom Holland should not have to worry about getting typecast as a comedic action hero. Wendy Williams is a 54-year-old television host best known for The Wendy Williams Show. Howard Stern is a 65-year-old radio host and television personality whose rise to stardom was his gritty, R-rated talk show The Howard Stern Show which started back in 1986. These two talk show legends, however, have been making headlines recently for a very heated feud that has shocked audiences. Neither side has decided to play nice, and honestly, its been pretty cut-throat. If words could kill. But what started this big fiasco to begin with? Why are Wendy Williams and Howard Stern feuding? Heres what we know. Wendy Williams started the feud by calling Howard Stern Hollywood Wendy Williams began the feud when she was talking about Howard Sterns new book on her talk show. The title, Howard Stern Comes Again, is his first publication in over twenty years with his previous title, Miss America, which was released back in 1995. Williams, however, did not really have nice things to say about Sterns newest work, claiming he had gone Hollywood and that he was going soft. since youve gone Hollywood, everything you say is so predictable Williams stated. Hes a Hollywood insider, which sucks. You started like me, being of the people. But at some point you sat behind the microphone for too long and now you are the people. Ouch. Williams should have known better or at least known what she was asking for. Howard Stern has earned his way in radio for never caring what others thought, and he has always been controversial. If Williams was asking for a clap back, Stern definitely delivered. Howard Stern responds with an enraged, cut-throat rant When Howard Stern heard what Wendy Williams had said about his book, he went ballistic. In fact, he was so angry that a considerable portion of his Sirius XM radio talk show was dedicated to telling Williams and all the listeners at home exactly what he thought of her. Stern started out by calling Williams a jealous bitch, and went on to say that she is nobody to him. That was some of the tamer things the shock jock had to say, as he continued with telling Williams that Youll never be me, Wendy You can pretend to be me but youre not. Stern went on to tell Wendy that she couldnt have his career, because she doesnt have either his wit nor his talent. Stern defended himself with the statement What evidence do you have that Im Hollywood, honey? I grew up a scumbag and Im still treated like a scumbag She doesnt know who Im hanging out with. She doesnt know what I do in this world. She doesnt know who Im f*cking with. Stern also called Williams out by saying that she is actually the one who is Hollywood. He supported this return accusation by saying that All she talks on that show is about Hollywood. Thats as Hollywood as you get Howard Stern issues warning and threats Besides simply calling out the host of The Wendy Williams Show, Stern issued warnings and threats that he did not even attempt to make subtle which, of course, would have been out of character for the radio host, anyways. Im not somebody you want to f*ck with, honey. I dont want to hear your bullsh*t. And youre not a nice person. Nobody likes you Waiting for a response Amidst the feud, fans are still waiting on a response from Wendy Williams. She has, as of this writing, not responded to Sterns long-winded and absolutely vicious verbal attack. Whether she will or not remains to be seen, but since Sterns call out was so public it would not look good on the persona Williams is trying to uphold. If she is really for the people, and controversial, as she has claimed to be, fans hope she will dedicate a portion of her talk show to a rebuttal. Update (April 17): Harvest Bible Chapel has lost its standing with the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), months after controversy over founding pastor James MacDonald culminated with his firing. The ECFA board voted today to terminate the Chicago-area churchs membership status due to significant violations to 4 out of 7 of the associations financial standards, citing direct and substantial evidence uncovered in the past week. The association said that Harvest withheld pertinent information about its finances and policies during earlier reviews. According to the ECFA, Harvest failed to comply with standards around governance, financial oversight, use of resources and compliance with laws, and compensation-setting and related-party transactions [full requirements listed below in previous coverage]. The violations are serious enough that the organization said restoring Harvests full membership status was not a viable option. ----------- Original post (March 16): Harvest Bible Chapel had its accreditation suspended this week by the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), after new information led to concerns that spending under former senior pastor James MacDonald was in serious violation of 4 of the agencys 7 standards for biblical and ethical financial stewardship. During the indefinite suspension, the church may not represent that they are an ECFA member or display ECFAs membership seal, wrote president Dan Busby in a statement released Friday afternoon. Harvest used to display ECFAs seal prominently on its online giving page. The investigation has been and will remain ongoing during the suspension as we work to determine whether Harvest Bible Chapel should be terminated, advised of the steps necessary to come into full compliance, wrote Busby, or whether they are in fact in compliance with our standards and should, therefore, be restored to full membership. On Wednesday, Julie Roysauthor of a months-long investigation into MacDonalds leadership published by World magazine that contributed to his February firingdevoted a blog post to critiquing ECFAs affirmation late last year that Harvest remained a member in good standing despite what she called glaring improprieties. Roys summarized her findings on Harvests extremely disconcerting, and potentially fraudulent, activity: For example, the church has repeatedly used money donated for one purpose to fulfill other purposes. Money given to Walk in the Word, the broadcast ministry of recently-fired Harvest founder James MacDonald, was used to develop a deer herd at Camp Harvest in Michigan. And $1 million in Walk in the Word funds were used to pay liabilities for Harvest Bible Fellowship when that organization dissolved in 2017. But on Saturday, I reported what was probably the grossest misappropriation of funds. According to past Harvest executives, MacDonald used church funds to pay for lavish personal expenses, including an African safari, Florida vacation, expensive cigars, and more. Whats perhaps most shocking about this revelation is that not only did the church know and approve these expenditures, so did Harvests auditors, Capin Crouse, according to Harvest Elder Bill Sperling. In Fridays statement, Busby wrote that ECFAs board of directors suspended Harvest as of Thursday based on new information received on Monday, March 11. He stated that ECFA opened a formal investigation of Harvest on November 28, but during a site visit to the church in December, we thoroughly examined the information made available to us and believed the church was in compliance with our standards. [Editors note: After the December 10 visit, ECFA reported that Harvest is in full compliance with each of ECFAs Seven Standards of Responsible Stewardship and remains a member in good standing with ECFA.] However given the emergence of new information, Busby stated ECFA now has concerns the church may be in serious violation of ECFA Standards 2, 3, 4, and 6. Those standards are: Standard 2: Governance Every organization shall be governed by a responsible board of not less than five individuals, a majority of whom shall be independent, who shall meet at least semiannually to establish policy and review its accomplishments. Standard 3: Financial Oversight Every organization shall prepare complete and accurate financial statements. The board or a committee consisting of a majority of independent members shall approve the engagement of an independent certified public accountant, review the annual financial statements, and maintain appropriate communication with the independent certified public accountant. The board shall be apprised of any material weaknesses in internal control or other significant risks. Standard 4: Use of Resources and Compliance with Laws Every organization shall exercise the appropriate management and controls necessary to provide reasonable assurance that all of the organizations operations are carried out and resources are used in a responsible manner and in conformity with applicable laws and regulations, such conformity taking into account biblical mandates. Standard 6: Compensation-Setting and Related-Party Transactions Every organization shall set compensation of its top leader and address related-party transactions in a manner that demonstrates integrity and propriety in conformity with ECFAs Policy for Excellence in Compensation-Setting and Related-Party Transactions. Harvest is the only member ECFA has suspended in the past two years. Otherwise the agency has seen members voluntarily resign (such as Harvest Bible Fellowship last October), or it has terminated members for not submitting renewal paperwork, for merging with non-members, or for dissolving completely. CT reported the last time ECFA terminated a member for cause: when Gospel for Asia (GFA) was determined to be in violation of 5 of 7 stewardship standards in 2015. GFA, a founding ECFA member, denied wrongdoing and vowed to improve. The ministry later faced a class-action lawsuit over how it handled donations. It settled with plaintiffswithout admitting wrongdoingearlier this month in return for offering a $37 million refund. In a March 10 update, Harvest leaders reported the resignation of its entire elder board and a significant strain on church finances, stating that tithes and offerings were down 40 percent. The Harvest 2020 team also reported: We have found that there was a lack of financial control and oversight as well as questionable spending practices made by the Senior Pastors office. In addition, we have identified there was a separate budget for the Senior Pastors office over which there was not sufficient controls and oversight. The team announced various changes, including: conducting a new financial review with independent advisors and a CPA firm; opening a new bank account to ensure every dollar of your tithes go towards existing ministry expenses, banking obligations, and staff salaries and not anything related to the Senior Pastors office or [MacDonalds] past budgets; reducing operating expenses from $409,000 to $308,000 weekly (not including mortgages); and creating a new purchasing/procurement department to control how money is spent. We know trust is earned over time, and we are working diligently to take actions and to communicate in ways that begin restoring trust, wrote the Harvest 2020 team. We also face the reality of our expenses and declined giving, the team wrote. If you call Harvest your church home, if this is where God is calling you to be, yet you have stopped giving your tithes, we are asking you to seek the Lord about restarting your giving. This rebuilding of trust, unity, and health as a Christ-honoring church is hard. We cannot do it alone. We need your prayers and your willingness to embrace this new journey together. CT will update this post as more information is available. Editors note: After this story was published, Harvest 2020 updated its plan for reduced operating expenses from $289,000 to $308,000 weekly. Calling same-sex attraction sinful makes LGBT individuals 'more like the rest of us,' says evangelical leader Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Saying that same-sex sexual attraction is sinful means that LGBT individuals are more like the rest of us not less so, according to a conservative evangelical leader. Denny Burk, professor at Boyce College and president of the Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood, gave a lecture last week on the debate over whether having same-sex attraction was itself sinful. Speaking before an audience on Mar. 7 at the Chapel Banquet Hall at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary of Kansas City, Missouri, Burk analyzed how the Bible approached defining sin when it came to desires and temptation. Insofar as same-sex orientation designates the experience of sexual desire for a person of the same sex, yes, it is sinful. Insofar as same-sex orientation indicates emotional attractions that brim with erotic possibility, yes, those attractions too are sinful, concluded Burk. Insofar as sexual orientation designates an identity, yes that identity too is a sinful fiction that contradicts Gods design for His creation. All of it is sinful. When examining how this applied to the debate over LGBT acceptance in the church, Burk stated that to call same-sex attraction sinful does not make gay people less like the rest of us. On the contrary, it makes them more like the rest of us. We are not singling out gay people as if their experience is somehow more repugnant than everybody elses, said Burk. All of us bear the marks of our connection to Adam. All of us are crooked deep down. All of us have thoughts and inclinations and attitudes that are deeply antithetical to Gods intentions for us. All of us need renewal from the inside out and that can only come from the grace of Christ. Burk added that he was not arguing that all sin has the same consequence, but he was stating that all sins have the same source and that source is in every single one of us. The odd thing about what you see in debates among the Christians about this is that were seeing some people wanting to treat same-sex sin as different from all other kinds of sins, continued Burk. People are usually okay saying if you desire something sinful thats a bad desire, you should repent of it, except when it comes for this. What I am saying is that we are in this predicament together. Burk drew upon Matthew 5:27-28, which Jesus spoke of adultery including thoughts, and Jesus temptation in the wilderness to argue that while temptation is not always inherently sinful, it can be. Burk also took issue with the claim of some, including Matthew Vines in his book God and the Gay Christian, that the Bible does not address sexual orientation. These concepts of attraction and desire and orientation are altogether in the literature, argued Burk, noting that the Bible has much to say about desire and attraction. In fact, orientation is defined by those terms. So this is the common way that the terms are used. Sexual orientation is defined by the direction of ones sexual desire over time. Sexual attraction and sexual desire are essentially the same thing. Last year, Memorial Presbyterian Church in St. Louis, Missouri hosted the Revoice conference, a gathering of a few hundred LGBT individuals in churches who adhere to biblical standards of sexual ethics. Revoice garnered controversy over claims that the conference was pushing pro-LGBT ideology into conservative churches. Critics included Michael Brown, host of the nationally syndicated Line of Fire radio program. In a column published last year by The Christian Post, Brown noted that at certain times "the terminology used by Revoice speakers and presenters affirms LGBTQ+ talking points in unhelpful and even dangerous ways." Brown cited one of the workshops being titled "Redeeming Queer Culture: An Adventure," arguing that a Christian should never self-identify as "queer." "Even the concept of LGBTQ+ individuals as being part of a 'sexual minority' raises all kinds of red flags, as if sinful temptations and disordered desires grant someone a 'minority' status," he added. Greg Johnson, lead pastor of Memorial Presbyterian, defended Revoice in an interview with CP last year, noting that gays are part of our mission field. They are broken people just like us who need Jesus just like us. Jesus didn't come to call the righteous but sinners, said Johnson. The reality is that the Gospel has power, and Jesus saves sinners. Straight sinners and gay sinners and rich sinners and poor sinners. He saves them and calls them to a life of self-sacrificial discipleship. For his part, Burk has been critical of Revoice, arguing that the 2018 conference failed to add any tangibly new content to the debate on celibate gay Christianity. I don't think anything new has been added to our knowledge about the celibate gay identity movement that we didn't already know, wrote Burk in a column last year. In short, the conference was of a piece with what has come before in books and articles and other conferences. Perhaps the only new wrinkle is the involvement of a PCA church and the questions that raises for that denomination. Last month, around 300 people attended God's Voice, a conference organized in response to Revoice that was held at Fairview Baptist Church of Edmond, Oklahoma. Our desire is to bring the clarity of the Word of God, explained Stephen Black, executive director with First Stone Ministries and part of the Gods Voice Committee in an earlier interview with CP. Gods Word promises Gods grace which has the power to bring souls to a sincere, born again experience and to Gods transforming power. Covenant Seminary distances itself from Revoice conference Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment A theologically conservative seminary affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America recently stated that it will not be supporting the Revoice conference. The first annual Revoice conference, which centered on giving support to gay Christians who want to adhere to biblical sexual ethics, was held in St. Louis, Missouri, last year and drew criticism from some conservative Christians who argued that it was advancing an LGBT agenda and promoting the idea that sexual orientation is fixed. Jay Sklar, vice president of Academics at Covenant Theological Seminary and a professor of Old Testament, was one of the speakers at the 2018 Revoice gathering. Clarifying the seminary's stance in a video released last week, Covenant President Mark Dalbey stated that his school will neither support this years Revoice conference nor will any of its staff take part. As to the Revoice conference, Covenant Seminary does not endorse, promote, or have a role in the Revoice conference. We do not agree with all of the views that were shared or taught at the Revoice conference, Dalbey said. Covenant Seminary does not advocate for queer theology, Covenant Seminary does not teach that a person should identify as a gay Christian, and Covenant Seminary will not have any of our faculty speaking at the 2019 Revoice conference. Dalbey took issue with individuals he did not name who had, as he put it, engaged in slanderous attacks against his seminary over the Revoice controversy. Much of what is being said about Covenant Seminary is sinful, slanderous, violation of the ninth commandment which teaches in the Larger Catechism that we should promote and preserve the good name of our neighbor and ourselves when necessary, he stated. Denny Burk, professor of Biblical Studies at Boyce College and a critic of Revoice, celebrated the Dalbey statement. I was really grateful to read a strong and clear statement about human sexuality from the President of Covenant Theological Seminary, wrote Burk. Last year, Memorial Presbyterian Church in St. Louis hosted the Revoice conference, a gathering of a few hundred LGBT individuals in churches who adhere to biblical standards of sexual ethics. Revoices official mission statement was to "encourage, support, and empower gay, lesbian, and other same-sex-attracted Christians so they can experience the life-giving character of the historic, Christian sexual ethic." While Revoice organizers supported the traditional biblical teaching of marriage and sexual ethics, some argued that the conference pushed an LGBT agenda in churches at the expense of sound Christian teaching. Covenant found itself in the crosshairs of the debate when Sklar agreed to be a speaker. Last year, Dalbey released a statement defending Sklars decision to speak at Revoice, while reaffirming his seminarys stance on biblical sexual ethics. To say, I am a Christian who struggles with 'x' kind of ongoing temptation to certain kinds of sin, is part of the testimony of ones sanctification but is not the foundation of who we are in Christ, stated Dalbey last year. In all of life, we must hold faithfully to the Bibles teaching as we reach those who do not yet know Jesus and as we help those who do to remain faithful to him. Pushing back against Revoice, a conference called "God's Voice" was held in February with speakers such as Stephen Black opposing the label "LGBT Christian." Revoice is scheduled to have its second conference in St. Louis on June 5-8. Social media the most common thing given up for Lent this year: poll Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment As part of the observance of Lent, many American Christians are logging out of Facebook and Twitter, opting to give up social media more than any other thing, according to a recent survey. Every other year, the website DecisionData.org takes a poll of Americans to see what they are giving up for Lent, a season on the liturgical calendar that ends with Easter Sunday. In a poll of 586 American adults whose findings were released Tuesday, the website found that social media was the most common thing given up, with 21 percent of respondents naming it. In second place was alcohol at 18 percent and third place was chocolate/sweets at 13 percent. The rest of the list was soda/coffee (11 percent), junk snacks and fast food (8 percent), pornography (6 percent), marijuana and tobacco (4 percent), and other (7 percent). Religious or not, Lent can be a great time of year to give up a distraction and refocus on other things that might be more important in our lives, noted DecisionData.org. While popularized in religious circles, Lent is spreading into the secular world, as more people participate in the fasting of some specific thing over the 40 days that lead up to the Easter holiday. When the website last did its Lent poll in 2017, alcohol had topped the list at 20 percent, junk snacks was second at 15 percent, and social media was at third with 14 percent. In 2017, DecisionData.org explained that while alcohol had been at the top of the list before, most notably is the rise in social media on the list of things people are giving up. Situated between Ash Wednesday and Easter, Lent lasts for 40 days plus Sundays to mirror the length of time Jesus Christ spent fasting in the wilderness, as described in Matthew 4:1-11. Jennifer Eivaz, pastor at Harvest Christian Center in Turlock, California, believes many Christians do not fast largely because they are not taught to. But the Bible calls believers to fast. She also maintained that while it's helpful to fast technology, biblical fasting requires giving up food. Earlier this month, Village Church Pastor Matt Chandler encouraged Christians to give up food for Lent in order to "orient their hearts around the betterness of Jesus above earthly pleasures." Not all food but, but maybe that's breakfast, or maybe that's lunch, or something like that, explained Chandler, noting that fasting has traditionally been associated with Lent. We want to set aside a good gift from God in the gift of food, the provision of that food, the gift of the taste of that food, the joy that comes from that food. Grandmother fighting to save 10-y-o grandson from puberty blockers, gender-transition speaks out Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Eight year-old Jack Wilson was on a weekend visit to his grandparents' house in mid-December 2016 when he informed his grandmother that his name was really Jacquelyn. "Grammy, my name is Jacquelyn," he complained as he walked into the room and sat down at the kitchen table for lunch. He had just received Christmas presents from friends of his grandmother addressed to "Jack" and was visibly upset. "Why is that your name?" Amanda Wilson, his grandmother, asked in response as she set a plate of chicken and rice in front of him. He replied: "Because I'm a girl now." "What makes you think you're a girl?" she inquired. "It's my gender," he said. She pressed him: "Well, what's a gender?" He stared back at her, puzzled, and said: "I don't know." Amanda Wilson hasn't seen her grandson in two years and each day she longs to hold him in her arms and hug him but can't. Her daughter, Marissa, and her spouse began believing that little Jack was really a girl around three years ago and because Wilson doesn't agree they've cut off all contact with her, no longer speak, and don't allow her and her husband to see him. Shortly after Jack turned 7, Marissa and her spouse excitedly announced on social media that Jack was a girl and they couldn't wait to start him on puberty blockers in two years when he turned 9. They posted a picture of Marissa's spouse and Jack outside a children's hospital that is home to one of the 55 transgender clinics now operating in the United States. The social media account Wilson's daughter had was deactivated and Wilson no longer has the exact words of her daughter's happiness about starting Jack on puberty blockers but she still has the picture. At Wilson's request, The Christian Post is using pseudonyms in this report and has changed or removed identifying details in order to maintain her anonymity. Although she was baptized as a Methodist, Wilson is not a subscriber to any particular religious faith but chose to speak with CP because she felt it was important that the voice of a grandmother is heard as more parents speak out about their heartache of losing their children to what many are calling a transgender "social contagion." She has reached out to many secular journalists to no avail. In 2008, Marissa, who lives just outside of Portland, Maine, was in a relationship with a man, became pregnant and gave birth to Jack in 2009. That relationship ended soon after Jack was born and just a few years later, when Marissa was 26, she came out as a lesbian and started dating a woman. Approximately 16 months later, they married in June 2013. Seven months into that marriage her spouse came out as transgender and changed her name to a male name and started taking hormones. The couple separated last year and now share custody of Jack. Wilson, who is from the Boston area and now lives in Amesbury, Massachusetts, first thought something seemed strange in early February 2016 at an event where Jack was there with his mom and he was outside playing. She noticed he had on a girl's leopard-print jacket with pink fur around the cuffs and hood. Several weeks later on May 1 she received a letter in the mail from Marissa saying that Jack was a transgender girl and that if family and friends did not affirm and support 'her' in this new identity they would be written out of their lives. They were to henceforth call Jack "Jacquelyn," noting they would allow people to call him "Jackie" as a nickname because Jack helped pick that name, but they personally preferred Jacquelyn. "It seemed like this all happened overnight," Wilson said in a recent interview with CP. Other than her daughter's spouse transitioning and hearing about it briefly in the news on the radio, she wasn't familiar with transgenderism as an ideology and was not one who followed politics much at all. Yet when she received the letter she didn't know what to do because although she and her husband didn't believe it, they wanted to do their best to figure out what was happening. Wilson started doing her own research online to find resources on children who believe they're transgender. For the first year Wilson and her husband decided to play it as cool as they could, especially when Jack was with them, but that soon changed. They would sometimes have Jack for a weekend and just let him have fun and would play with him. They tried not to pay too much attention to the gender issues swirling around him at home. "But every time we would send him back my daughter was disappointed or mad about something," Wilson said, explaining that Marissa would call her and berate her for not being sufficiently affirming both of Jack as a girl and of her parenting. What Wilson describes as "the final straw" occurred just over two years ago in February 2017. The Wilsons had Jack for the weekend and Marissa had packed a sleeveless summer dress for Jack to wear but the temperatures were below freezing and they had several inches of snow on the ground. Because it was so cold Wilson washed what Jack had on the day before a Disney Cinderella T-shirt with glittery gold lettering and girl jeans so he could be warm when they took him to a birthday party they were going to the next day. Jack had "loads of fun" at the birthday party, Wilson said, recalling how he was laughing and horsing around with the other kids in the snow with their sleds. But Marissa was furious and "totally freaked out" when she found out that Jack was never dressed in the summer dress while in the care of his grandparents that weekend, Wilson recounted. "And that was the last time I spoke to her and saw him," she said, distraught. Three months before, they had him for another weekend and took him to an event for children at the Boston Museum of Science. Wilson and her husband were wearing Boston Red Sox sweatshirts and Jack said he wanted one so they got him a Red Sox hoodie and a New England Patriots T-shirt he wanted one with a player's name on it and a pair of red socks that had the Red Sox logo on them. "He had a blast, running around like boys do," Wilson said. Even though Jack always had lots of fun when he was with his grandparents it didn't seem to matter to Marissa. They had always done something wrong. The angry phone calls kept coming, insisting that Jack must be fully affirmed as a girl and that Wilson must also voice her approval of how she was raising him. "But when he was here with us, we didn't have to be [affirming]. We just played with him. It wasn't a big deal," she said. Although Jack was being led to believe he was actually a girl he never really caught on that his grandmother was not affirming him as a girl. When he was with her she would say Jack very quickly and it was close enough to Jackie that he never said anything. Yet right before Christmas in 2016, Jack was again visiting his grandparents and there were many presents for him under the tree from other friends that were addressed to "Jack," and that upset him. Wilson and her husband had left his name off their gifts and just gave them to him. It was that weekend where Wilson and Jack had the lunchtime conversation about his name and where Wilson asked him "What's a gender?" and he replied that he didn't know what a gender was, even as he was being required to live and function as the opposite one. For Wilson, that exchange revealed just how much confusion had been sown into her grandson's impressionable, developing mind. She believes today that had Jack not spent his formative years watching his mother's spouse transition that he would have never entertained the idea that he might have been born in the "wrong" body. Around this same time, Wilson was seeing a therapist herself to sort through her own confusion with this, as she was struggling to know how to continue being a good grandparent in a situation she could not understand. She wanted to tell Jack about "the facts of life" and explain biology in terms a young boy could understand, but she did not because her counselor cautioned against doing that and urged her to be extra careful. A clinical social worker furthers the deception Two weeks after the Wilsons received the letter announcing Jack was a girl, her daughter invited them to meet a clinical social worker to alleviate their concerns. The two of them met with her the next week. "She basically told us, 'just let him explore his gender,'" Wilson said. The social worker seemed gracious and she appeared to share the concerns they had that their daughter's spouse had some anger issues, Wilson noted. But she had not heard, as Marissa had told Wilson, that Jack had been diagnosed with gender dysphoria. Wilson was then extremely confused, as what she was hearing from her daughter conflicted from what the social worker was saying. When she brought this up later on a phone call with her daughter, Marissa became very angry and then said another meeting would take place with all four of them, the Wilsons, Marissa and her spouse. Wilson and her husband agreed to the meeting. "Well, it was only about a month later and the clinician had a totally different attitude," Wilson recalled. "She looked at me in the eyes and said: 'Your granddaughter does not think she is a girl. She is a girl." Wilson was stunned. She could hardly believe this was the same woman who was so understanding and kind a few weeks earlier at their prior meeting. "I started screaming at her and said 'No, that's not true,'" Wilson continued. She then turned to her daughter's spouse, pointed at her and told her: "My grandson is no more a girl than you're a guy." The social worker then tried to calm everyone down as the discussion was growing heated. Wilson's husband then inquired about puberty blockers and their use in young children. "She just made it sound like it was like kids eating candy, that they were reversible, that there were no harms," she said, disgruntled. Upon hearing her brush off their questions, Wilson and her husband got up and left, enraged. Wilson did not buy into the idea that the blockers were like candy because of what she had learned from her own research. She had found critical voices on the practice of chemically suppressing the pubertal signals in the brain, medical perspectives that had reinforced her common sense. "If I knew nothing about them I think she probably could have convinced my husband and me, but because I did have some knowledge, I was prepared," she said. In Wilson's mind, Jack was just a little boy who was pretend-playing, putting on dresses and being creative, and that it was no big deal. At the second meeting with the social worker, Marissa urged her to watch "I Am Jazz" on TLC. "It's a really great show, and it will teach you a lot of stuff," her daughter said to her in a text message. Wilson decided to watch the first two episodes of the series and was thoroughly repulsed and horrified when she finished. "I sent her a text back and said: 'You let my grandson watch that crap? He's 7 years old. And you let him watch that crap?'" Wilson asked. Wilson and Marissa then got into a big fight. The horror of puberty blockers The Massachusetts grandmother doesn't know if her grandson has been started on the blockers but she suspects that he has. And she laments that if indeed he has begun them he will likely be on them for several years and then be put on cross-sex hormones, which will permanently sterilize him. The only connection she has to him is through photos that friends of her daughter's sometimes see and send her. They continue to dress him and treat him as a girl. After storming out of the therapist's office that day in May 2016, Wilson continued to research puberty blockers and her horror only grew. She started posting about them on her Facebook page along with expressions of her anger and disgust that they were considered legitimate medicine and health care. A friend who agreed with her urged her to take her rants to an even more public forum so more people could see them. Although she was not computer-savvy she thought that was a good idea, so she opened a Twitter account. She soon connected with other distressed moms who were hiding behind pseudonyms to maintain their anonymity, all of whom were dealing with children who believe they are the opposite sex and were calling themselves transgender or nonbinary. "I cry myself to sleep every night thinking about it," Wilson said, knowing that her grandson's normal physiological and sexual development is likely being stunted. Wilson often worries that Jack will end up with a disfigured body and a severely split psyche. The thought that, like 17-year-old Jazz Jennings, her grandson will have a less than fully functional micro-penis because of all of the hormones and drugs he might now be taking frequently torments her. In her worst moments she is plagued with a bone-rattling fear that after all these transition chemicals Jack might be so dissociated from his body that he will, in a few years, be steered into undergoing a surgical procedure where his underdeveloped gonads are cut off and his smaller than normal penis is inverted to fashion a fake vagina, which would be partially constructed using a bit of his intestine. "Envisioning him going through that, like Jazz did, it gives me nightmares," she said, mournfully. Her concerns about the psychological effects of puberty blockers have merit. Dr. Michael Laidlaw, a Rocklin, California-based endocrinologist, told CP in a December interview about Lupron, one of the drugs used in gender clinics across the U.S. Laidlaw said these drugs are psychologically addicting "either because of a direct psychotropic effect or because the child can reassure themselves that they are not growing into an adult male body or an adult female body. It continues the illusion." A grandmother's agony "I cry a lot," Wilson said of the sadness she now lives with daily, admitting that she sometimes self-medicates with alcohol. She has been seeing a counselor to process her ongoing anguish but hesitates to go on medication for depression. In her conversations online with fellow suffering moms, activists and a few journalists who are resisting transgender activism and medicalization, suicide is a topic that comes up in a few contexts in their conversations. "There have actually been times ... where I thought I could do it," Wilson said, her voice halting. "But I don't want to really talk to other mothers about that very much because I don't want to put [suicidal] ideas in their heads," she said through tears. What infuriates Wilson most is the manipulative threat transgender activists often use that unless children are allowed to undergo gender transition they are at higher risk of or will indeed commit suicide. The fact is that when children are transitioned, it often creates suicidal ideation in their parents and grandparents who do not agree with or support it. Transactivists accuse parents and family who do not support their child's wishes to be the opposite sex as "violence" and that they hate their children when in fact the opposite is true, she explained. "I don't think I could kill myself, but I just want to die. This has destroyed me so much I just want to die," Wilson said. "And then I think about my husband, and I think about my other grandchild, and I pick myself up and go on another day." Losing friends who demand she comply The losses have been searingly painful and they have extended beyond the zero contact with her grandson and daughter. Wilson also no longer speaks to a pair of sisters, friends of hers with whom she has shared Thanksgiving and other holidays for over 30 years. These friends have sided with her daughter and fully support the transitioning of Jack. Ever since it was announced that Jack was really a girl, whenever Wilson would talk on the phone with these friends they would use female pronouns when referring to Jack and correct Wilson when she referred to her grandson with male pronouns. Wilson would not correct her friends even though she did not like hearing them say that. But it finally got to be too much and she could not take it anymore. "I said: 'Stop correcting me," she said on one particular occasion. But her friend persisted with the female pronouns. "When she did it a third time I exploded," Wilson said. "I've not corrected you once. And I've asked you three times to stop correcting me. This is my grandson, not yours," she emphasized, shouting at her through the phone. A bitter fight ensued and Wilson eventually said to herself "I'm done" and hung up the phone. The friend's sister heard about it and called Wilson to tell her that she owed her sister an apology for yelling at her. "I told her, 'Well, she deserved it,'" Wilson recounted. "So we're not friends anymore," she added. "She had a lot of gall correcting me every time I said 'he' telling me 'it's she' or when I'd say his name and she'd then say the girl name." The holidays are now especially hard. Wilson said she just "goes through the motions every time one rolls around." "When I consider how much I've missed in the past two years, there's a big difference between age 8 and 10. When I think of how much I've missed out on, we were always so close before this. I'm not like the see-you-once-a-year grandma, and I think that's why I'm so devastated. We were so close. And now it's just ... gone," she said, mourning that she could not be with him on his recent birthday. Jack turned 10 on Feb. 28. Wilson has pursued what she might do legally but she believes she has no recourse. She contacted a few attorneys in Massachusetts and even found one locally who was also licensed to practice law in both her home state and in Maine where her daughter and grandson live but she did not want to get involved. Another Maine-based law firm told her the same thing. A paralegal there told her that "grandparents' rights are hard enough to fight for on a good day" and with the transgender issues factoring in they did not want the trouble or negative publicity. Wilson has also called Child Protective Services in hopes they could help her but they could not because gender-transitioning children, legally speaking, is not considered abuse even though many physicians regard it as such. "I can't find any peace," she explained. "Every time I try to find peace and I say to myself 'OK, you've gotta let this go, you've got to stop, you've done everything you can.' And then I say to myself, 'No, you've got to do more, there's gotta be something more.' "So I just keep doing it, and the more I keep doing it the less peace I have. And I'm not going to find peace until there is resolution somehow." Wilson now counsels parents to trust their instincts. "Let your kid be a kid," she said, when asked what she would tell parents who are being told their children might be transgender. "Don't take them to any gender clinic. They don't need therapy at that age. They need to just be allowed to play." If a boy puts on a dress and starts playing around, don't look at it as him somehow sending a gendered message, she added. "I will never affirm this idea," she continued, that children can change sex. "There is nothing that will ever change my mind." "And that doesn't stop me from loving them. I mean, I love my daughter. I love my grandson. But wrong is wrong. I can't and won't try to convince myself of something that is not true." Wilson believes she's as adamant in her fight as she is because she was a victim of childhood sexual trauma; the abuse started before she turned 6 and lasted for many years, she told CP. "And, of course, at that age, I didn't know I was being abused when I was being abused," she said. Her current fight to attempt to rescue her grandson has caused many of those horrific memories to resurface, and the pain is particularly potent because she continues to pick up on the red flags and abuse dynamics operating around Jack that are, unfortunately, eerily familiar. "I'm 57 years old. I'm long past that. And so now, it's not like a trigger but it has brought it back. I think it makes me fight this even harder because I'm just so mad. I see that this is wrong. I know it's wrong," she elaborated, vowing to continue. "It's wrong what happened to me as a child, even though I didn't know it was wrong then. But I know it now. And that's what's happening to my grandson. But the difference is that he's not going to know it's wrong until he's old enough to say it's wrong, and by then he's probably going to be so brainwashed he's still not going to know it's wrong." Physician-assisted suicide bills die in New Mexico, Arkansas Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment The New Mexico and Arkansas legislatures both defeated bills that would have legalized assisted suicide. Writing in LifeNews Thursday, Alex Schadenberg, who heads the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition, reported that bill HB 90 in New Mexico has been tabled. The legislation, which was later amended, was, in his view, the most radical bill of its kind in that the language provided for euthanasia and allowed the practice to expand. The New Mexico bill, which was known as the Elizabeth Whitefield End of Life Options Act, passed through two House committees earlier this year, but was quietly tabled in the lower chamber of the legislature in late February, The Santa Fe New Mexican reported this week. At the time we are just a few votes shy to pass the bill, said Rep. Deborah Armstrong, D-Albuquerque, who sponsored the legislation along with Sen. Elizabeth Stefanics, D-Cerrillos. What we do have, though, is the drive and the commitment to keep building momentum, to keep reaching out to legislators on both sides of the aisle and to keep educating people about medical aid-in-dying something like this takes time, Armstrong said. The bill would have allowed medical doctors to prescribe life-ending drugs to those who wish to end their suffering and take their lives. The New Mexico legislation was awkwardly worded, Schadenberg said in January, having previously understood it to mean that the bill would enable "suicide tourism," allowing people from other states to come to New Mexico for assisted suicide. A bill that would have allowed assisted suicide in Arkansas also died Thursday. The News & Observer reported Tuesday that the Arkansas measure died in the House Public Health Committee after it failed to receive a motion to send the bill to the chamber floor. The bill, which was sponsored by Rep. Dan Douglas, R-Bentonville, would have added an exception to the state's existing ban on physician-assisted suicide. "Douglas' proposal would not have required doctors or health care facilities to participate in the procedure. A patient under the proposal would have to ask a doctor twice within 15 days to write a prescription for a lethal dose of drugs before the doctor could fulfill the request," the Arkansas outlet reported. As of the beginning of 2019, physician assisted suicide remains banned in most U.S. states but is legal in California, Colorado, Hawaii, Oregon, Vermont, Washington state and the District of Colombia. In Montana, physician-assisted suicide has been legal by State Supreme Court ruling since 2009. SBC leaders back Texas bill allowing churches to disclose sexual misconduct allegations Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Newly proposed legislation in Texas would allow churches and nonprofit organizations to disclose allegations of sexual misconduct without being sued. The bill comes amid fallout from extensive investigative reporting in the Houston Chronicle and San Antonio Express-News about hundreds of cases of sexual abuse where both leaders and volunteers in Southern Baptist churches have been charged with sex crimes. Their investigations explained how, in dozens of instances, churches failed to disclose concerns about former staff members who were abusers and who sought employment at other churches, and would go on to abuse more victims. The measure, HB 4345, was introduced by Texas House Rep. Scott Sanford, R-McKinney, who's also a Southern Baptist minister, and is the latest among similar proposals around the country now being considered in light of the #MeToo movement and other religious sexual abuse scandals, the Houston Chronicle reported Thursday. A spokesperson for Sanford said the bill was brought to us by faith leaders and that Sanford saw this as an important step to reporting and preventing sexual abuse. The legislation came together within the past month, according to the spokesman for the Texas state convention of the Southern Baptist denomination, Gary Ledbetter, who noted that he did not know what "directly prompted" the legislation. Lawyers often advise churches to say nothing except that the person did work here when discussing former employees with potential new bosses, Ledbetter said. Basically, we dont say anything, he said. This bill would encourage churches to tell the truth as best as they know. Executive director of the Texas SBC, Jim Richards, also supports the bill, and told the Houston Chronicle that the convention must do everything we can to protect the innocents from predators." "As a convention of churches we will continue to work on ways to provide a safe environment for the vulnerable. We hope HB 4345 will facilitate this goal, he said. The Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, the SBC's public policy arm, also backs the bill. Widespread sexual misconduct and systematic cover-up of the perpetrator's crimes occurring within churches and their affiliated ministries has come to the fore in recent months not only with the release of the Pennsylvania Attorney General's report on clergy sexual abuse in the Roman Catholic Church but in Independent Fundamental Baptist churches and Southern Baptist congregations. Abuse within the SBC, the Texas newspapers found, was allowed to go on because of local church autonomy. Although connected by a common mission and an overarching denominational structure, each Southern Baptist congregation governs itself and governs itself independently. The Southern Baptist Convention is the largest Protestant denomination in the United States. "This is a scandal crying out to Heaven," wrote Russell Moore, who leads the ERLC, when the story broke in the Houston Chronicle last month. "The churchs message to survivors should be a clear communication that they are those who have been sinned against, not those who have sinned, that they are not troublemakers in the church but those who are helping the real 'trouble' to come to light." Similarly, SBC President J.D. Greear, who pastors Summit Church in Durham, North Carolina, said that the February report means that it was time "to mourn and repent" as a denomination. "Changes are coming. They must. We cannot just promise to 'do better' and expect that to be enough," he said. After 56 years of marriage, couple dies hours apart holding hands Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment A Michigan couple whose family described as inseparable in life died hours apart while holding hands earlier this month. The daughters of the storybook couple, Will and Judy Webb, who died on March 6, told Fox 2 that their parents who met when they were just 14, wouldnt have wanted to die any other way. "At 14 they met and were friends, they dated other people, they were engaged to other people," Marybeth Webb, one of the late couples daughters explained. "And then they were both single when he went to [the] Army. So she was like, I didn't have anyone to write, so I started writing your dad.'" The couple forged a friendship through letters. Judy wrote Will when he served in Korea and they soon fell in love. On Feb. 16, 1963, they eventually got married and moved to Melvindale where they raised their children. And their daughters grew up understanding the strong bond between their parents. "They always had their arms on each other. If she was away five minutes, he would say, 'Where's mama, have you seen mama?'" another daughter, Lori Thomas, said. It wasnt until several months ago the daughters, who are all nurses, said that the bond between their parents was first threatened by sickness. Judy suffered complications from what was supposed to be a routine surgery and things started going downhill from there and they watched their father go down with her. "It went bad," Lori explained. "She ended up coding from it. My father watched it and broke." Will, who was 77, collapsed the morning after his wife coded. Even though he and his wife were being treated in separate hospitals, the couple still maintained a physical and emotional bond that medical experts couldnt explain. "She would get a fever from her infection; he would get a fever. Couldn't figure out where his was coming from because there was no source," Marybeth said. "She ended up with encephalopathy as a complication from the antibiotic she was on; he ended up with encephalopathy. Both ended up unresponsive at the same time, ended up back in the ICU." It was soon clear that Will was dying. "I put him in hospice and let God take it from there, and my mom just started declining so bad we said we have to get them back together, we can't do this, they can't die without one another," Ann Warren, another daughter, told Fox 2. "We said 'Mom, you want to see dad?' She said 'Yes.' (She was) all excited and they brought mom through the door in dad's room and he looked over and saw her and said 'Mama!' And that was like the last thing he said," Warren added. About four days before the couple died they were brought together in the same hospice where their daughters put their beds together so they could hold hands. "They were holding hands and when my dad took his last breath, my mom went like this rubbing his hand," Lori said. "She wasn't responding but she knew he died, so she rubbed his hand, like I'll be there soon and she was." Even though their parents are gone, the sisters described the gift of love their parents left them as a treasure. "We all have this long line of love we just treasure," Warren said. "That's why no one should ever settle. If you have someone you truly love you should fight for it. They fought for their love every day." Charlotte Pence: Abortion must be an important social justice cause for millennials Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment The daughter of Vice President Mike Pence is urging millennials to channel their passion for social justice to include advocacy against abortion because it is a massive injustice. In an Tuesday editorial in the Washington Times, Charlotte Pence, who is now a graduate student at Harvard Divinity School, opined that if her generation is to care for people who are marginalized and oppressed, they must be concerned with the plight of unborn children. "Yes, abortion is a violation of providing life to a human being but it should also be acknowledged as oppression in its barest form. It ostracizes the weaker members of society, and it places a particular burden on minority communities," she wrote. She noted that abortion rates continue to vary by factors like ethnicity, race, and income level, and compared the fight to save unborn lives to the abolitionist movement, which worked to end slavery and give meaning to every life. "In the same way, we must accept the hard reality that in allowing the celebration of abortion, we are committing injustice against human beings. The families that deal with the ramifications of an abortion also experience trauma, which, in turn, impacts the communities in which they live, creating a destructive cycle," Pence said. "Abortion is also a womens issue, but not in the way in which the progressive left has used it. The pro-choice message tells a woman the way in which she should live. The narrative is not one of empowerment and self-sufficiency; it is of fear." And women who have had abortions are not to be blamed, she stressed, because society has failed them. "I refuse to preserve the lie we tell girls from the time they are young: That the child they carry is an inconvenience, that they are not capable of rising above unforeseen life circumstances, that we will not reach out to help them," she said. Pence does not believe that an abortion-free world will begin with government, noting how the U.S. Senate recently blocked consideration of legislation that would provide medical care to children born alive following botched abortions. "We are in a pivotal time in our culture that will decide the moral ground we stand upon. This has to be a grass-roots movement of kindness, love and a sincere demand that the weakest in our society no longer be silenced and removed," she said. "Only then will we see a cultural shift where we start to right the wrongs of the past and move toward a better future for our children the ultimate desired outcome for social justice. Policy change is not the only response here, but rather a coming together should be our fight." Charlotte Pence is the author of Where You Go: Life Lessons from My Father and co-author of the children's book Marlon Bundo's Day in the Life of the Vice President. Pence's mother, second lady Karen Pence, a trained watercolorist and art teacher, did the illustrations. "I have always wanted to be a writer. I want to be a storyteller. I want to connect people. I also want to help facilitate conversations about religion and faith," Charlotte Pence said in an interview with The Christian Post last fall. "I am not sure exactly what it is going to look like but often in our millennial generation, topics of faith are not necessarily talked about as much. I would love to start that conversation because I think a lot of people are very curious about religion and faith even though it's not talked about." FDA cracking down on online mail-order abortion pills Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment The Food & Drug Administration recently sent warning letters to businesses that are selling abortion pills online that the federal entity deemed unapproved and mislabeled. The FDA sent a warning letter last week to Aid Access, a website that claims to provide safe abortion pills for women, girls and trans men. Signed by Thomas Christi, director of the Office of Drug Security, Integrity, & Recalls at FDA, the letter says that the website has introduced misbranded and unapproved new drugs in interstate commerce in violation of federal law. Two specific examples cited by the FDA were the drugs mifepristone and misoprostol, which were labeled unapproved, adding that they are not generally recognized as safe and effective for their labeled use. Aidaccess.org facilitates the sale to U.S. consumers of unapproved mifepristone in a regimen with unapproved misoprostol labeled for the termination of pregnancy, states the letter. No approved applications pursuant to section 505 of the FD&C Act are in effect for this product. Accordingly, its introduction or delivery for introduction into interstate commerce violates sections 301(d) (21 U.S.C. 331(d)] and 505(a) (21 U.S.C. 355(a)] of the FD&C Act. Another warning letter was sent last week to Rablon, an online pharmacy network that oversees several websites including some that sell abortion pills. According to the letter, also signed by Christi, Rablon offered a product known as an Abortion Pill Pack," which included both mifepristone and misoprostol tablets. Because the Abortion Pill Pack product contains prescription drugs intended for a condition that is not amenable to self-diagnosis and treatment by a layperson, adequate directions cannot be written such that a layperson can use the product safely for its intended use, reads the FDA letter. By offering this drug for sale to U.S. consumers, Rablon is causing the introduction of a misbranded drug into interstate commerce in violation of section 301(a) of the FD&C Act [21 U.S.C. 331(a)]. Both entities were told by the FDA to immediately cease providing the online abortion pills, being told to contact the FDA office within 15 days of receiving its warning letter. Dr. Randall K. OBannon of the National Right to Life Committee supported the FDAs action, saying in a statement released Tuesday that it showed there are still people at the FDA who look at the evidence and see drugs that come with serious risks and require, at a minimum, professional medical management. They also recognize that in their zeal to push these do-it-yourself abortions, these advocates have incautiously partnered with shady or sloppy foreign pharmaceutical companies who manufacture and ship drugs of which the FDA cannot guarantee the purity or safety, stated OBannon. That they come without instructions or without clear safety warnings is reason enough for the FDA to halt the import of these drugs. Launched last year, Aid Access had reportedly shipped abortion-inducing drugs to approximately 600 women within its first six months of operation. The FDA began investigating Aid Access last year, noting that mifepristone, which is also called RU-486 or Mifeprex, is not allowed for sale online. SPLC fires co-founder Morris Dees over alleged misconduct Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment The Southern Poverty Law Center, a controversial organization that's known for labeling conservative groups as hate groups, fired its co-founder Morris Dees. SPLC President Richard Cohen released a statement Thursday announcing that the 82-year-old Dees was no longer with the Montgomery, Alabama-based organization. Morris has made incredible contributions to the fight against racial injustice in our country. But our work is about the cause, not the person. Were committed to ensuring that our workplace embodies the values we espouse truth, justice, equity, and inclusion, stated Cohen. When one of our own fails to meet those standards, no matter his or her role in the organization, we take it seriously and must take appropriate action. In comments published by the Montgomery Advertiser, Cohen declined to provide further details of the decision, though he mentioned concerns over workplace practices. Cohen explained that the SPLC was taking concrete next steps following the firing, which included bringing in an outside organization to conduct a comprehensive assessment of our internal climate and workplace practices in order to ensure that our talented staff is working in the environment that they deserve. The SPLC was founded in 1971 to help with legal battles against groups like the Ku Klux Klan. More recently, the far-left group has garnered controversy for labeling many conservative groups and individuals as hateful. Critics have accused the SPLC of inciting violence against conservatives. For example, in 2012 a gay rights activist named Floyd Lee Corkins attempted to murder members of the Family Research Center. Corkins cited SPLCs designation of the FRC as a hate group. In 2017, violent student protests against conservative intellectual Charles Murray took place at Middlebury College of Vermont, with protesters being inspired by the SPLCs attacks on Murray. The SPLC denounced Corkins attempted mass shooting, and Cohen testified before Congress to state that he believed Murray has the right to speak on college campuses, including Middlebury. "No matter how repugnant one may find a speaker's views, as long as the college has a policy of allowing student groups to invite people from outside their campus to speak, they cannot pick and choose based on the views the speaker holds," said Cohen in written testimony submitted to United States Senate Committee of the Judiciary in 2017. "This is why Middlebury's student chapter of the conservative American Enterprise Institute had a right to invite Charles Murray to speak to them on campus. And it is why neither other students nor college administrators can stop someone from speaking merely because they dislike the speaker's ideas." Last June, the SPLC issued a formal apology to an ex-Muslim activist named Maajid Nawaz and paid him $3.3 million as part of a legal settlement after wrongfully including him in a report on anti-Muslim activity. "This settlement is another example that the Southern Poverty Law Center is incapable at monitoring the very thing it claims to track," Mat Staver, founder and chairman of Liberty Counsel, a socially conservative group that the SPLC labeled hateful, said in a statement last year. "No credible journalist should ever rely on the SPLC. The SPLC reeks with hateful, false, and defamatory rhetoric." Weekly briefing: Terrorist attack, defunding abortion, James MacDonald Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment We've compiled the top stories of the week. Here's what you need to know: Terrorist attack: 49 killed at mosques in New Zealand Mass shootings at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, led to the deaths of at least 49 people. Officials have charged a man in his late 20s with murder. A video posted on Facebook shows live footage of the shootings. It is believed that the gunman livestreamed the massacre. Before the attack, a manifesto was posted online and contained white nationalist and anti-immigrant statements. The manifesto has been linked to the gunman but has not yet been confirmed. Court lets Ohio defund Planned Parenthood An Ohio law that bars funding organizations that perform abortions does not violate the Constitution, the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled this week. Planned Parenthood, the appeals court ruled, does not have a due process right to perform abortions. The courts ruling overturns an earlier decision against the law. James MacDonald accused of using church funds for vacations James MacDonalds former bodyguard and a former executive director of business operations at Harvest Bible Chapel alleged that the ousted pastor spent the churchs money on lavish vacations, including an African safari, an office renovation and other personal expenses. The Chicago megachurch has hired independent advisers to conduct a thorough review of its financial affairs and has vowed greater financial accountability. Victims of Ethiopian Airlines crash included 4 Christian aid workers When Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 went down shortly after takeoff, all 157 people on board were killed. The victims include four employees of Catholic Relief Services who were Ethiopian nationals traveling to Nairobi to attend a training. The crash, which had a similar pattern to last years Lion Air crash (which killed 189 people), has led to the grounding of Boeing 737 Max 8 jets in at least 40 countries, including the United States. Department of Education calls restriction on religious organizations unconstitutional U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy Devos announced on Monday that religious organizations will be allowed to provide services in private schools, saying that the current restriction is unconstitutional. Those seeking to provide high-quality educational services to students and teachers should not be discriminated against simply based on the religious character of their organization. Devos Pray for The victims of the New Zealand terrorist attack A Kenyan pastor who was beaten after a prayer gathering New releases Films: Faith, Hope & Love (March 15) Five Feet Apart (March 15) Albums: The Wait by David Leonard (March 15) Behold the Lamb / It Is Finished by Passion (March 15) UK's Church leaders stand with New Zealand's Muslims after horrific mosque killings Church leaders in the UK have expressed their solidarity with the Muslim community in New Zealand after Friday's tragic shootings at two mosques. The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev Justin Welby said he felt 'profound sympathy' for the victims and relatives of the killings as he appealed to Christians to reach out to their neighbours and pray for interfaith relations. 'As Christians we are called to be good neighbours. Let's get behind this simple act of kindness and reject hatred of Muslims. #WeStandTogether #Christchurch,' he said. 'Profound sympathy for the victims and relatives of the New Zealand terrorism. Let all Christians pray for healing of people, interfaith relations and New Zealand itself. Jesus calls us to welcome strangers and love our neighbour however different.' The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu called the shootings a 'deliberate act of hatred for which there is never an excuse or reason'. 'I share a common heritage of the Abrahamic faith with our Muslim sisters & brothers and my prayers go to their families & community. The whole of NZ grieves, as we all do. We are all bound together by our common humanity, united in our longings for peace & hope. #Christchurch,' he said. 'God give wisdom to all who lead and exercise authority. God give unity to the people of #Christchurch. God give hope and energy to restore neighbourhoods and bridge any divisions which may arise. My prayers are with you.' In Manchester, where a suicide bombing on an Ariande Grande concert in 2017 killed 22 people, many of them children, Bishop David Walker was among those who took part in an interfaith vigil in the city's St Ann's Square. 'This morning in Manchester #WeStandTogether with #Christchurch NZ as fellow targets of terror. May your love for each another unite you. May it strengthen you to defy the forces of evil and hate. And God bless you,' he said. The Church in Wales' International Group has issued a prayer for Christians to use in the wake of the attacks. It reads: God of compassion and peace, whose Son Jesus Christ wept at the untimely death of his friend: we stand today in solidarity with our Muslim friends, shocked at the deadly attacks on worshippers at mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. Comfort all those injured, bereaved or traumatised; strengthen those who may now fear to show their faith; and turn the hearts of those filled with hate to a better way. Teach us all how to build a world that reflects your Spirit of generosity and reconciliation; for we are all your children, and you call us to love one another as you have loved us. Amen. In a statement, the International Group said it was 'more important than ever that we reach out in friendship and solidarity to our neighbours'. 'We pray that God will be close to those most deeply affected, and give courage to all those who may now be fearful of showing their faith,' it said. The head of the Catholic Church in England and Wales, Cardinal Vincent Nichols said: 'The news of the massacre in the New Zealand mosques is deeply shocking and has caused us all great pain. 'We pray for the many victims, for the wounded and for the whole community, which has been severely affected by this act of terrorism. 'May God free us from these tragedies and sustain the efforts of all those who work for peace, harmony and coexistence.' 3 1 of 3 Houston Chronicle Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Google Maps Show More Show Less 3 of 3 A teen was seriously injured Friday night after falling from the hood of a car in northwest Harris County. The teen was riding on the hood of the car in the 16800 block of Kilwinning Drive when he fell and was pinned under the car, according to the Harris County Sheriff's Office. Queen fans have a couple of options when it comes to seeing the legendary British band live. There's Queen + Adam Lambert, which features founding members Brian May and Roger Taylor teaming with the "American Idol" runner-up. The band returns to Toyota Center on July 24 as part of "The Rhapsody Tour." After 41 years of serving the Kingwood community with world-class travel ventures, Kingwood Travel is now has new ownership and a new location. Kingwood Travel, which is now owned by Frosch Travel, is now located in the Galleria area at 1 Greenway Plaza Ste. 800, Houston. All Kingwood Travel employees will work from the new location and clients will still receive the same services as before. Friday, March 8, was International Womens Day 2019 and in many Rotary Clubs around the world, it is a day worth remembering. With origins of the day dating back to 1908 when women marched in New York City for voting rights and equal pay, the day has become many things to many people. In the world of Rotary, its a time to celebrate the admission of women into Rotary in 1987. 1987 - just 32 short years ago. At our Conroe Rotary Club meeting last week, I retold the story of my first Rotary meeting in 1999. I walked through the doors of The Junior League in Houston to a room filled with 400 men in dark business suits. There were a handful of women in the room, also in dark business suits and heels. Everyone was kind and cordial, but I was a bit taken aback by the formality of the luncheon. At the time, I didnt know that women were so new to Rotary membership, and this large, traditional club was just beginning to figure out this novel world of co-ed Rotary. Courtesy photo A smarter man might keep this to himself and Im risking a heaping helping of heckling by offering this up, but I like the occasional pedicure. In fact, I may just go get one today during this lovely Spring Break. And thanks to our guest speaker this past Wednesday, Sgt. Erik Burse of the Texas Department of Public Safety, Ill be a little more mindful of possible victims of human trafficking. Nail salons and massage parlors are regularly caught up in stings related to human trafficking. Trafficking is defined as any kind of forced labor or servitude where the employee or victim is not free to leave or in control of their situation. Did you know that Houston has the highest number of human trafficking victims in the nation? Because of our proximity to the port, its easy to get victims into the country and they dont always end up in nail salons and massage parlors. Some are forced to work in restaurants, agriculture or manufacturing facilities. The DPS has a very convenient app available for iPhone and Android which allows for you to report anything you believe that just doesnt seem right. And it wouldnt be a visit from the DPS without a reminder to move over and slow down for law enforcement and dont drink and drive. Longtime Family Promise of Montgomery County Director LaToya Carter is starting a new chapter at Yes to Youth in The Woodlands. Following the 2008 financial crisis, Carter and her family found lived in a truck on the East Coast, eating sandwiches for nearly every meal, showering as a family at truck stops. Ultimately, Carter moved back home to Montgomery County to change the trajectory of her life. She started out as a client of Family Promise of Montgomery County, which helped her family out of the crunch of homelessness by providing food, transportation, help with childcare, securing employment, finding a home, gifting her a vehicle, teaching her to budget and be responsible for her household, as well as further her education. She would eventually begin her own tenure with the organization in 2011 as the assistant director and fill the position of executive director in January 2015. In the past 7.5 years, she has been able to help 119 other families who faced the same situation, which totals 363 individuals of which 219 were children. She also reunited with her husband, who she shares six children and three grandchildren with today. There is no other organization like Family Promise, Carter, who knows without a doubt Family Promise changed her life, wrote in a Facebook Post. This experience has helped build my confidence, has made me a better mother and person, and has given me the tools to pursue and reach the goals I set for myself and my family. Carter, who now holds a bachelors degree in general business administration from Sam Houston State University and a career background in management and is also involved in various other nonprofit organizations, said she visited with Family Promise board members who felt it was time for the little bird to fly its coop and move on, which she said motivated her to begin to look for something new as she had already hit the ceiling at Family Promise. As luck would have it, around the same time, a longtime employee in the human resources department at Yes to Youth, formerly known as Montgomery County Youth Services, was ready to retire, which opened up the opportunity for Carter to apply to the position of human resources generalists which she began on Feb. 19 in The Woodlands. Both are super unique as Family Promise helps the family in its entirety, they keep them whole which is so important when families are going through such a crisis, the last thing they need to do is be separated, Carter said during a phone interview. Now I am focused on working with this organization that is totally focused on youth and the kids need that. This organization is like being the person you needed as a kid, she added. So the opportunity to change kids lives, to let them know they are important and cared about, and they have the opportunity to change their future on their own its a huge blessing to be a part of both organizations. Family Promise Board President Shawn Johnson said the board and organization is excited for Carter who has been invaluable to the program. Family Promise presented Carter with an award in recognition and appreciation of her services. She really embodied the story of Family Promise, she was well-received in the community, an excellent speaker very engaging its just exciting to be a part of what she helped build in Family Promise, Johnson said. Im pretty sure she is a lifelong advocate of Family Promise, I think she bleeds Family Promise, as a board we are so excited to have watched her mature to this point and develop as a community leader and even more thrilled to watch her come and duplicate herself within our county. We couldnt be more pleased and happy for her as well as Yes to Youth they have definitely picked up an excellent community leader. One week ago, the Family Promise Board welcomed its new director, Marilyn Kasmiersky, who has served as the director of professional and government relations at Lone Star Family Health Center since November 2015. Johnson shared the hope is to be able to expand the program and bridge a lot of the initiatives she said Carter created and produced to support families. She (Kasmiersky) is off to a flying start, Johnson said. We knew this would be a bit of a transition but I really believe God has blessed us our agency is to serve our community and I know he blessed us with LaToya and I can see he has blessed us with Marilyn. As a board we are excited for our growth and the potential of the agency. mellsworth@hcnonline.com UPDATE: Eight tanks now on fire at Deer Park plant A fire that broke out Saturday afternoon at Exxon Mobil's Baytown refinery has been contained by emergency officials. No injuries were reported, according to a statement from company spokesperson Sarah Nordin. The company was monitoring air quality but said they did not yet see evidence of "adverse impact." The blaze broke out around 12:30 p.m., affecting a unit that the company said processes motor gasoline. It sent a thick cloud of dark smoke into the sky, captured in videos posted to social media. Exxon and La Porte Office of Emergency Management officials both said that there was no need to find shelter-in-place locations. BREAKING NEWS UPDATES: Get your Houston breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox "Pollution Control is still monitoring the air south of the plant around La Porte and Clear Lake with no reading at this time," Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo said. The smoke had spread across much of the Houston skyline and could be seen from miles away. By 4 p.m., it was no longer visible at the site. Exxon Mobil in its statement said the cause of the fire would be investigated. "We deeply regret any disruption or inconvenience that this incident may have caused the community," the statement said. Other safety issues have surfaced at the plant at 5000 Bayway Drive in Baytown. In 2016, a pipeline leak of a highly flammable chemical outside the plant prompted evacuations. It came two months after a shelter-in-place was called due to another release. NEWS WHEN YOU NEED IT: Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message | Sign up for breaking news alerts delivered to your email here. Sugar Land City Council candidate Naushad Kermally wasn't miffed when someone stole 15 campaign yard signs from his Telfair neighborhood early Monday morning. His volunteers had just installed 400 in one night the previous week, and he thought it was best to let it go. Then, on Tuesday morning, he woke to find eight more signs missing. Then again on Wednesday. "Every morning we're waking up, this is happening," he said. "So it's frustrating." RELATED: 'I hate Ted Cruz': Video shows man ripping Cruz yard signs in Montrose Kermally, currently an executive at a privately held wireless company in Sugar Land, is a first-time candidate running to represent District 2. He said more than 50 signs have gone missing since Monday, some of which he recovered in a trash can at a public park. He said he has no idea why someone would target his signs, specifically. "It's a nuisance to go back and replace these signs after my volunteers worked so hard to put out 400 signs in one night," he said. BREAKING NEWS UPDATES: Get your Houston breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox One of Kermally's neighbors recorded video of someone stealing a sign in their yard with home surveillance cameras. The culprit appeared in the video to be a female riding in the passenger seat of a white sedan. He said they're stealing signs on different streets every day. People can be charged with a low-level crime for stealing yard signs, but he simply wants the end the petty thievery. "I just want it to stop," he said. "I don't want anything else." 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 | NEWS WHEN YOU NEED IT: Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message | Sign up for breaking news alerts delivered to your email here. Tucked into a shopping center at the end of Woodlands Parkway sits a quiet, unassuming cafe with a heart of gold. For Arturo and Lucy Calderon, the owners of Caffe di Fiore, service and community lie at the heart of their authentic Mexican restaurants mission. Our customers are our guests, Lucy Calderon said. We want them to feel just like they would at home. Caffe di Fiores comforting and sleek interior houses both a bakery and a restaurant featuring pozole from the state Jalisco, machaca dried beef from Monterrey, cochinita pibil slow-roasted pork from the Yucatan peninsula, chorizo soup from the central city of Toluca and a mahi mahi recipe of Arturos mothers own creation. The menu hasnt been changed for almost four years no reason to mess with what works, Arturo said and features nine kinds of tacos. It just a tortilla and meat, Lucy Calderon said. But each one is unique. The couple, both natives of Mexico City, bought the shell of the locale in 2012 and turned their passion project into a neighborhood staple. The Calderons always planned to open a restaurant in retirement focused on high-quality service and serving authentic family recipes, but equally as important, they said, was that it be in the community they love with all their hearts. Arturo Calderon visited The Woodlands for the first time almost three decades ago. The township was still thickly wooded only about 500 homes had been built and a mere 5,000 people called themselves residents. Still, he said, he was drawn to its beauty and the master plan designed by George Mitchell laid out in front of him in a community where he could one day see himself raising his children. It was everything (that drew me in), Arturo Calderon said. In my mind I said, Someday, I would like to live here. The couple met and married in San Antonio, where Lucy remotely ran a business in Mexico and Arturo worked as a strategic planning consultant. In 2004, Lucy, at seven months pregnant, visited a niece living in the Village of Panther Creek, and, seeing what Arturo had seen years earlier, fell in love with the family-oriented community. They both had fairly mobile jobs, she said, and were easily able to move to the township by the time their daughter was born two months later. Years passed, and with their daughter in school, the Calderons finally decided to open the restaurant theyd dreamed of. Arturo oversaw the kitchen menu, carefully crafted to include dishes representative of all of Mexico, and Lucys tres leches cakes, flans and cookies adorned the bakery racks. To remedy any problem that could be glossed over, the Calderons didnt just leave their service to the staff both owners are servers as well, seeing with their own eyes what its like at the front of the house. This is a business that if you want to be successful, you need to be here 24-7, Arturo Calderon said. When we started, we saw that the most important thing was the way that the customers were treated. Because of the attention to service, Lucy Calderon said, Caffe di Fiore enjoys a solid foundation of loyal customers. In 2014, both Arturo and Lucy were diagnosed with cancer it was a brutal year, Lucy said, but already-loyal customers rallied around them. Once, Arturo said, a family came in when he was at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. When they heard about the misfortunes of the couple owners who put so much effort into welcoming each guest the table went home, changed into black and came into the restaurant to volunteer their time. The restaurant never closed, Arturo Calderon said. (Lucy) was able to keep it open and our regulars never left us. Both survived, and continued to take Caffe di Fiore to new heights the restaurant has been covered by local TV news and is active in events around The Woodlands like Sips, Suds and Tacos at Wine & Food Week in June, and the eatery will be featured in The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festivals new exhibit, Spotlight on Mexico. The Calderons are active in their work with Interfaith of The Woodlands and offer a steep discount for law enforcement officials who dine at the restaurant. Longtime customers, many of whom started going to the restaurant as children, still frequent the cafe. They still come here often, on their own, Lucy Calderon said. Weve seen them grow up. mrincon@chron.com Treemont Retirement Community has been selected for two awards for assisted living in Houston honors in 2019. ThreeBestRated.com listed Treemont as one of the Top 3 Assisted Living Facilities in Houston in 2019. This is the third year in a row for this accolade, which is based on the following selection criteria: Our 50-point inspection includes everything from checking reputation, history, complaints, local reviews, nearness, satisfaction, trust and cost to the general excellence. Thats not all ... businesses do not pay us to list them. In a letter to Treemont, Three Best stated, On behalf of Three Best Rated this Certificate of Excellence award is proudly presented after duly checking extensive customer reviews, ratings, history, complaints, satisfaction, trust, cost and the general excellence. Your commitment to these values and your consistent high quality in your area of business is hereby acknowledged and certified. The second Treemont accolade is for Best of Assisted Living in Houston in the annual SeniorAdvisor.com Best of 2019 Awards that recognize outstanding senior living and home care providers who have received consistently high ratings from residents and their families. Winners of the SeniorAdvisor.com Best of 2019 Awards are located all over the United States and Canada and represent the top tier of in-home care, assisted living, and other senior living providers. The award places winners in the top 1 percent of senior care providers across the U.S. and Canada. As a Houston retirement tradition, Treemont was one of the first Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) options of its kind in Houston, offering independent apartments, assisted living, nursing/rehabilitation and home care in the Memorial area at 2501 Westerland Drive. Your address does not have to change as your care needs do, said Treemont health center and assisted living administrator Cynthia Lamison. To learn more, visit Treemont.com or call 713-783-6820 (independent living) or (713) 783-4100 (Kelli in assisted living) for a free lunch and tour. This is the best way to learn how retirement communities help seniors retain their independent lifestyle. Following news that actress Lori Loughlin allegedly took part in a bribery scandal to get her two daughters into the University of Southern California, the Hallmark Channel announced it would be severing ties with her. Now, as Deadline and TMZ report, she also might not return to her role as Rebecca Donaldson-Katsopolis or Aunt Becky on Netflix's "Full House" sequel, "Fuller House." RELATED: Actresses Felicity Huffman, Lori Loughlin among dozens charged in college admissions scheme Now, Loughlin is not a series regular on the show she's a guest star and the writers haven't yet begun writing the script for the fifth and final season, so there was no guarantee Loughlin was ever to appear in the final season. However, she has appeared in every season to date, so some might interpret her absence from the production as a glaring omission. Netflix had no comment to SFGATE on the report, and Warner Horizon, which distributes the program, hadn't commented by press time. Deadline nevertheless reports that a "final judgement could come as soon as the next day or so." RELATED: Lori Loughlin dropped by Hallmark Channel amid college admissions scam allegations Earlier this week, Loughlin, as well as her husband, fashion designer Mossimo Giannulli and dozens of other wealthy and prominent parents were accused of bribing university officials across the country to get their children into ivy league and top-ranked schools. In the case of Loughlin and Giannulli, they are accused of handing over half a million in bribes to get their daughters falsely listed as new recruits for the USC crew team. Loughlin was arraigned Wednesday in a Los Angeles federal court and is currently out on $1 million bail. Alyssa Pereira is an SFGATE staff writer. Email her at apereira@sfchronicle.com or find her on Twitter at @alyspereira. Two-year pilot aims to attract experienced entrepreneurs to smaller communities around the province British Columbias regional pilot for immigrant entrepreneurs opens for business Two-year pilot aims to attract experienced entrepreneurs to smaller communities around the province British Columbias regional pilot for immigrant entrepreneurs opens for business Two-year pilot aims to attract experienced entrepreneurs to smaller communities around the province British Columbias regional pilot for immigrant entrepreneurs opens for business Two-year pilot aims to attract experienced entrepreneurs to smaller communities around the province CIC News Aa Accessibility Font Style Serif Sans Font Size A A Entrepreneurs interested in immigrating to British Columbia through the provinces new Regional Pilot can now take the first steps toward obtaining a community referral. The pilot, which opened March 14, is designed to help smaller, more remote communities in the province attract new businesses and create jobs. Experienced entrepreneurs approved through the Entrepreneur Immigration Regional Pilot receive a temporary work permit to start their business and can later apply for a provincial nomination for Canadian permanent residence if they meet the conditions specified in their performance agreement. The pilot is meant for regional communities of less than 75,000 people that are located more than 30 kilometres from a larger population centre. It was created to address the demographic and economic challenges that many of these towns and cities are facing. More than 30 communities have already joined the pilot and are now in a position to begin referring eligible candidates to the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) for consideration. In order to participate, communities must have the required support services in place to help business owners and their families settle. Due to an ageing workforce and a preference for city living, some smaller towns can face challenges growing their local economies, said B.C.s Minister of Jobs, Trade and Technology, Bruce Ralston. This pilot will attract new businesses that create jobs and spread investment around the province. Find out if youre eligible for Canadian business immigration How it works All interested entrepreneurs must first assess their eligibility for the program and complete an exploratory visit to the community where they wish to set up their business. During the exploratory visit, candidates will present their business proposal to the communitys designated pilot representative. After the visit, the entrepreneur may request a referral from the community in order to register under the pilot. As part of the registration process, candidates submit details about their work and/or business experience, education, language ability, net worth and information on the proposed business. The BC PNP says personal net worth and investment criteria have been reduced for the pilot compared to its base Entrepreneur Immigration category. This reflects the lower costs of starting a business and settling in B.C.s regions compared to Vancouver and the provinces more densely populated urban centres. Among other eligibility criteria, candidates must: have a minimum of $100,000 in eligible business investments; have a minimum personal net worth of $300,000; have 3+ years of experience as an active business owner-manager or 4+ years as a senior manager within the last five years; take on a minimum of 51 per cent ownership; create a minimum of one new job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada; have a minimum proficiency in English or French equal to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 4. All candidates will receive a score upon registering and the highest-scoring candidates will be invited to submit a full application to the BC PNP through monthly invitation rounds. The BC PNP says applications are typically assessed within four months and applicants may be invited to attend an in-person interview in Vancouver to discuss the details of their application. Approved applicants must sign a performance agreement with the BC PNP that outlines all the criteria that must be met in order to be nominated for Canadian permanent residence. Successful applicants receive a work permit support letter from the BC PNP and can then apply to the Government of Canada for a two-year temporary work permit. Entrepreneurs who are determined by the BC PNP to have met the terms and conditions of their performance agreement will be nominated for Canadian permanent residence. One of those communities participating in the pilot is Comox, a town of 15,000 on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island. The Comox Valley continues to be one of the fastest growing regions in the province, said the Mayor of Comox, Russ Arnott. We want to attract new people and new businesses to drive economic growth and job creation. Find out if youre eligible for Canadian business immigration 2019 CICNews All Rights Reserved Cookie Preferences Cookie List Cookie List A cookie is a small piece of data (text file) that a website when visited by a user asks your browser to store on your device in order to remember information about you, such as your language preference or login information. Those cookies are set by us and called first-party cookies. We also use third-party cookies which are cookies from a domain different than the domain of the website you are visiting for our advertising and marketing efforts. More specifically, we use cookies and other tracking technologies for the following purposes: Strictly Necessary Cookies We do not allow you to opt-out of our certain cookies, as they are necessary to ensure the proper functioning of our website (such as prompting our cookie banner and remembering your privacy choices) and/or to monitor site performance. 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Targeting Cookies We also use cookies to personalize your experience on our websites, including by determining the most relevant content and advertisements to show you, and to monitor site traffic and performance, so that we may improve our websites and your experience. You may opt out of our use of such cookies (and the associated sale of your Personal Information) by using this toggle switch. You will still see some advertising, regardless of your selection. Because we do not track you across different devices, browsers and GEMG properties, your selection will take effect only on this browser, this device and this website. BROOK PARK, Ohio -- Disturbance, Glenway Drive: A Brook Park man, 22, was arrested at about 10:45 a.m. March 4 after causing a disturbance on Glenway. The man was living with relatives, who called police and said he was intoxicated and yelling. When police arrived, they discovered that the man was wanted in Cleveland and Westlake. He resisted arrest and police had to carry him to the cruiser. Disorderly conduct, Smith Road: A Brook Park man, 69, was arrested at about 2:15 p.m. March 2 after he injured himself while drunk outside Quick State Liquor, 5945 Smith. The man had just bought liquor at Quick State. He fell on the sidewalk and cut his nose. He refused medical treatment. Disorderly conduct, Brookpark Road: An intoxicated Elyria man, 30, was arrested at about 2:45 a.m. March 6 after he caused a disturbance outside Crazy Horse, 16600 Brookpark. The man tried to re-enter the bar after closing time. The manager called police. When police arrived, the man was running away, but police caught up with him. Grand theft vehicle, Sheldon Road: A 2011 Ford Edge was reported stolen at about 10 p.m. Feb. 28 from outside The Acadian Apartments, 21462 Sheldon. The victim had left the keys inside the vehicle. Police dont know whether the car had been locked. The vehicle was later found burned in East Cleveland. Telecommunications fraud, Edgepark Drive: An Edgepark man, 73, called police at about 1 p.m. March 4 and said he had been the victim of a telephone scam. The man had received a phone call March 1 from a male suspect claiming to be an AT&T representative. At the suspects suggestion, the man agreed to upgrade his cable TV, phone and internet service. The suspect instructed the man to pay $360 in the form of Amazon gift cards. The man bought the gift cards and provided the serial numbers to the suspect. The man grew suspicious and called an AT&T customer service worker, who told him AT&T doesnt accept Amazon gift cards as a payment method and that he was likely a scam victim. The information was relayed to the AT&T fraud unit. Police advised the man to submit an online report to the Ohio Attorney Generals Office. Operating a vehicle under the influence, Ohio 237-Sheldon Road: A Berea woman, 30, was arrested at about 10:50 p.m. Feb. 28 after police caught her driving drunk on Ohio 237. Police stopped her car because it was weaving outside of marked lanes. Possession of narcotic equipment, Snow Road: A Cleveland man, 48, overdosed on heroin at about 2 p.m. March 2 in a hotel room at Howard Johnson by Wyndham, 16644 Snow. The mans stepdaughter found the man unconscious and called police. Police found hypodermic needles and a crack pipe with the man. He was taken to Southwest General Health Center in Middleburg Heights. CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, Ohio -- Starting with 35 applications, City Council now has four finalists for the seat vacated in November by Cheryl Stephens when she was elected to Cuyahoga County Council. With the seventh at-large member scheduled to be sworn in April 15, City Council continues deliberations on those finalists: Craig Cobb is an attorney and 27-year resident of Cleveland Heights who lives on Berkshire Road. In addition to serving as the chairman of the City Planning Commission, Cobb is also a member of the Charter Review Commission. According to his application, Cobb believes the greatest challenges facing the city include not only keeping young families in town, but increasing tax revenue through local job growth and attracting new residents who contribute to the income tax base. Melody Hart is a certified public accountant and Monmouth Road resident who has lived in Cleveland Heights for over 13 years and is also active with Greater Cleveland Congregations, working with the city on housing issues in Cleveland Heights, including the recently enacted foreclosure bond. Regular attendees of City Councils weekly Committee-of-the-Whole meetings, Hart and her husband, Gary Benjamin, helped organize Anslys Army in support of Haitian refugee Ansly Damus, who now lives with them after being detained for two years in the Chardon jail. Tamika Martin, a six-year resident living on Brentwood Road, is a client solution manager with PNC bank, where she is part of a company-wide diversity council. She is a former Chase Banks branch manager in Cleveland. As a Noble neighborhood resident, Martin wants to see more done with opportunities for collaboration between the city and neighborhood groups such as the We Are Noble initiative. On her application, she noted that she receives the groups newsletter and is on the social media website, but feels that overall activity is very low. Davida Russell, a 37-year, second-generation resident, community activist and labor leader, lives on Fenley Road and currently works for the South Euclid-Lyndhurst School District in the transportation department and as a substitute teacher. Prior to that, Russell worked for 35 years in transportation with the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities and served 25 years as union president with the Ohio Association of Public School Employees, rising to OAPSE district president in 2006, as well as serving as state vice president for a decade. Serving on numerous local and county boards, Russell advocates more aggressive pursuit of businesses, especially at Severance, along Noble Road and in Cedar-Fairmount. Narrowing down the finalists Operating with six members since November, Mayor Carol Roe commended the work of the citys Digital and GovTV Program Coordinator Steve Barker in compiling nearly three dozen interview videos in conjunction with the local League of Women Voters chapter. "With an engaged community such as Cleveland Heights, it is no surprise we had 35 applicants for this important position," Roe stated in a March 14 city press release. "We reviewed each candidate's application and video interview and brought in four exceptional candidates." Formal interviews have been conducted and deliberations continue on council. Once appointed, the interim council member will have to run in the November general election to fill the remainder of Stephens unexpired term, running through the end of 2021. It has been wonderful to see the interest from so many of our residents who want to serve our community, said Roe. We thank all 35 people for their interest and their commitment to Cleveland Heights. BAY VILLAGE, Ohio -- Assault, Bradley Road: On March 6, an employee at a healthcare facility attempted to assault another employee. There has been ongoing tension between the two, which culminated in a dispute in the break room. While one employee was washing dishes in the sink, the other employee, from a distance, placed a 6-inch-long serrated knife into the same sink. The victim said the knife was thrown forcefully, narrowly missing her hands. The other employee said she simply tossed the knife into the sink. The information has been sent to a prosecutor. Drunken driving, Bradley Road: On March 9, an officer stopped a car for speeding and other traffic violations. The officer noted that the driver might have been under the influence of alcohol and had him perform roadside sobriety tests. After failing, the 49-year-old man from Altoona, Pa., was arrested. Fraud, Revere Drive: On March 10, a resident reported that in December of 2018, she hired a person to do electrical work at her home and gave him a personal check for $300. The check was cashed, but the 26-year-old man from Elyria has not returned to do the contracted work and will not return the residents calls. If you would like to discuss the police blotter, please visit our crime and courts comments page. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Cleveland police officers found a small alligator while serving a search warrant Friday morning at a home on the citys East Side. Officers found the 3-and-a-half foot alligator as they searched the home in connection with a drug investigation, Cleveland police Sgt. Jennifer Ciaccia said. Three guns and narcotics were also found in the home on East 161st Street near Waterloo Road, Ciaccia said. Officers arrested a man on suspicion of drug trafficking, police said. He has not yet been formally charged in the case, according to court records. A woman was also arrested on an active warrant, Ciaccia said. Her name and the charges she is facing were not immediately available. The Cleveland City Kennel is taking custody of the alligator until arrangements can be made to transfer it elsewhere, Ciaccia said. Authorities have found alligators in Northeast Ohio homes at least two other times in the last four years. Last year, U.S. Marshals found a 3-foot-long alligator in a fish tank as they searched a Willoughby Hills home. Its owner was wanted for violating his parole stemming from a federal conviction of drug trafficking, marshals said at the time. Animal Control officers came to the home to take custody of the animal. In 2015, Cleveland police officers found an alligator inside a mans East Side home after a SWAT standoff. Its owner barricaded himself in the home following a domestic incident, police said. The Cleveland City Kennel also took custody of that alligator and kept it in a small pool until it could be moved. To comment on this story, visit Fridays crime and courts comments page. MAPLE HEIGHTS, Ohio -- Officials have identified two men who were shot dead Saturday morning in a Maple Heights home. William Ivy III, 35, and Julius Moore, 29, were shot dead in a home on Brunswick Avenue near East 146th Street, Maple Heights police said in a statement. A 31-year-old man also was shot and taken to MetroHealth with life-threatening injuries. His currently condition was not immediately available. A man called police and said the 31-year-old man showed up at his door yelling for help. He had multiple gunshot wounds, but police did not say where he was shot. The homeowner could not understand him, police say. Authorities received another call about shots fired in the area of Brunswick Avenue. Police found an open door to a home. Ivy and Moore were found dead with gunshot wounds, police said. Blood was discovered on the door. Police have not said if any arrests have been made or how the three men knew each other. The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is assisting. Anyone with information is asked to call Maple Heights police at 216-587-9624 or Detectives@mhpd-ohio.com If youd like to comment on this story, visit Saturdays crime and courts comments section. MAPLE HEIGHTS, Ohio -- Two men are dead and one is hurt in an early Saturday morning shooting in Maple Heights, police say. The shooting happened shortly before 1:30 a.m. in the area of Brunswick Avenue near East 146th Street, Maple Heights police said. A man called police and said a man showed up at his door yelling for help, police said. The homeowner could not understand the man who suffered several gunshot wounds, police say. Authorities received another call about shots fired in the area of Brunswick Avenue. Police found an open door to a home with two men who appeared to be dead with gunshot wounds, police says. Blood was discovered on the door. The man who tried to find help was taken to MetroHealth with life-threatening injuries. Police are still trying to identify the men and no arrests have been made. The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is assisting. Anyone with information is asked to call Maple Heights police at 216-587-9624 or Detectives@mhpd-ohio.com If youd like to comment on this story, visit Saturdays crime and courts comments section. BEREA, Ohio -- Police are searching for a woman who went missing in Berea. Karen Ruggles was last seen about 6 p.m. Thursday and left an apartment on Front Street near Liberty Street, police said in a Facebook post. She is known to visit family in the North Olmsted area and has friends in and apartment in Berea, police said. Anyone with information is asked to call Berea police at 440-234-1234. If youd like to comment on this story, visit Saturdays crime and courts comments section. LODI, Ohio -- A45-year-old man is dead after being hit by a car Friday night, authorities say. Cole Filhart, of Lodi, was killed in the crash that happened just after 8 p.m. on Ohio 421 in Lodi, according to a news release from the State Highway Patrol. A 43-year-old woman was driving a 2016 Honda Civic south on Ohio 421 when she hit Filhart while he was walking across the street, the release says. Filehart left after he was hit and was later taken to Cleveland Clinic Akron General Lodi Hospital from a home, the release says. The Lodi Police Department, the fire department and the Medina County Coroners Office assisted the Highway Patrol. The crash is under investigation and authorities did not say if charges will be filed. If youd like to comment on this story, visit Saturdays crime and courts comments section. CLEVELAND, Ohio Less than three months after announcing plans to eliminate 29 jobs by shifting its page-production work to a centralized outside system, The Plain Dealer notified staff on Friday it plans to eliminate an additional 14 newsroom jobs in about two weeks. Plain Dealer President and Editor George Rodrigue blamed a continuing decline in advertising revenue for the cuts. Since around 2001, newspaper advertising revenue has been plummeting, he said in an email to members of the Northeast Ohio Newspaper Guild, Local 1, which represents the affected reporters and editors. Its below the level of the 1950s now. This has forced newsrooms around the country to make painful adjustments. Two production staffers will move to the newsroom, Rodrigue said, reducing the net loss of jobs there to 12. This is a catastrophe for Cleveland and for local journalism, responded Guild unit chairman Ginger Christ. Our newsroom is being gutted, while the company continues to try to bust our union. Were going to fight all of these cuts. The production shift announced in December is planned for May, Rodrigue said. He said members of The Plain Dealers production staff, including copy editors, illustrators and designers, can apply for non-union jobs with Advance Local, which has been contracted to produce the paper. With the latest cuts, the newsroom operation will have been reduced by 80 percent from the level of seven years ago, the Guild said in a statement. The units membership will drop to about 30 from 340 members 20 years ago. Christ said the Guild is still waiting for a response to its proposal to spearhead a subscription drive that proposed to save the job of one union journalist for every 500 subscriptions purchased. COLUMBUS, Ohio - Gov. Mike DeWines first two-year state budget calls for no changes in the basic state funding for public school districts across Ohio, but there is a new initiative starting with $250 million next year aimed at helping student success through an array of support services. The goal is to free up teachers to do more teaching, and help students go to class better prepared through linkages with mental health counseling, mentoring, after-school programs and other resources. Every superintendent and principal tells us they have kids who have specific needs," DeWine said Friday in rolling out his first two-year state budget. Cleveland.com is looking at various aspects of Gov. Mike DeWines budget. You can find all of our coverage here. DeWines budget proposal would provide $250 million in the first year, beginning July 1, and $300 million in the second year of his budget for student wellness and success." Schools would be encouraged to use the money to partner with local organizations, such as drug and mental health boards, to help children in need. By targeting this money, DeWine said, Were allowing teachers to be teachers. ... Only by doing this will the kids be at the starting line and have a chance to succeed." DeWines budget director, Kim Murnieks, said each Ohio school district would receive a minimum of $25,000 the first year and $30,000 in year two. Additional money would be distributed on a sliding scale, based on the percentage of children in poverty in each district, Murnieks said. The budget also noted some other areas of increased or new funding, including: Expansion of an income-based scholarship program for students to attend private schools. The EdChoice program, estimated to cost $47.7 million this year, would jump to to $57.2 million in fiscal 2020, and to $71 million million in fiscal 2021 - annual increases of 20 percent and 24.1 percent. Additional money for community schools, often referred to as charter schools, with new funding of $30 million for those designated as schools of quality. An increased appropriation for the federal school lunch program in response to increasing demands. The amount would go from $406 million this year, to $419 million and $431 million the next two years. The additional funding for the private-school scholarships and community school quality awards total $83 million over two years, according to the budget proposal. The initial reaction to DeWines plan was positive from the Ohio Education Association, which represents 122,000 teachers, faculty and other school employees, though OEA President Becky Higgins said of course we need to see the details. We are particularly pleased with the Governors proposal to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in a special fund for schools to form community partnerships to help at-risk students, Higgins said in a statement. As the Governor noted, educators believe that these so-called wrap-around services are critical to meeting student needs." The legislature has until June 30 to approve the budget, which would cover state spending through June 20, 2021. CLEVELAND, Ohio Three seasoned political experts will break down the 2020 presidential election today during a panel event at the City Club of Cleveland. Nina Turner, co-chair of Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders presidential campaign; Clare Malone, senior politics writer at FiveThirtyEight; and Mark Everson, former IRS commissioner and 2016 presidential candidate, will join ideastream Executive Editor Joe Frolik to break down the litany of issues in the 2020 election. More than a dozen Democratic candidates have already declared, with more thinking about jumping in. Republican President Donald Trump remains the presumptive GOP nominee, though several anti-Trump Republicans are considering a primary challenge. And Ohios battleground status remains in a precarious position, having overwhelmingly voted for Trump and Democrats seemingly moving on to other pickup territory. Turner, a former state senator from Cleveland, is the past president of Our Revolution, the pro-Sanders political group formed out of his 2016 presidential run. Malone is a Shaker Heights native and accomplished political reporter who has worked for FiveThirtyEight since 2015. Everson served as IRS commissioner under Republican President George W. Bush and in Indiana GOP Gov. Mitch Daniels cabinet from 2009 to 2012. He mounted a campaign for president in 2016, though was excluded from Republican primary debates because of low polling and a lack of fundraising. He was one of the earliest GOP critics of Trumps campaign. The City Club program begins at 12:30 p.m. To watch, view the livestream at the top of this story. "5G networks will provide the future backbone to our societies and economies, connecting billions of objects and systems, including sensitive information and communications technology systems in crucial sectors," it says. "To safeguard against potential serious security implications for critical digital infrastructure, a common EU approach to the security of 5G networks is needed." That marks a major shift in thinking ahead of next Thursday's EU Council meeting in Brussels, bringing together all 28-member country leaders to discuss China the day before Xi lands in Rome. Although the document is couched in diplomatic language, calling upon the EU to "deepen its engagement with China to promote common interests at a global level," its message is unmistakable on critical infrastructure and Europe's tech base. After months of study, the European Commission released its " EU-China: Strategic Outlook ," included the clearest and toughest language yet toward China in an EU document. After years of a more benign approach to Beijing, it branded China as "an economic competitor in the pursuit of technological leadership, and a systemic rival promoting alternative models of governance." Western media coverage has understandably focused on the unfolding Brexit drama in London, where British lawmakers failed to agree on a viable path forward. However, what went under-reported was that at the same time the EU took its most significant steps yet though belated and insufficient to address China's increasingly assertive and state-subsidized push into Europe. Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit Italy and France next week amid a European Union firestorm over the dangers of rapidly growing Chinese trade and investments particularly regarding next-generation telecom technology and intensifying divisions among its members about how to deal with them. To achieve that, the Commission said it will lay out a path following the EU Council meeting. What's unclear is how effective any approach would be, which would require buy in from 28 nations 27, if Brexit goes through which view China through vastly differently lenses. The challenge is that China for some time has executed a clear plan that has put Europe increasingly at the heart of its global political and economic strategy while Europe has lacked any unified policy of approach of its own. That has given China maximum leverage in negotiating with EU member countries, almost exclusively on a bilateral basis. Even worse, instead of joining in common cause regarding China, the United States and European Union have been bickering over trade and a host of other issues, from Iran to defense spending. During the Cold War, the European Union and the United States achieved a far more elaborate and coherent approach in response to a far less resourceful competitor. Greater coordination inside Europe and across the Atlantic could bring considerably more leverage to the negotiating table. The combined EU-US GDP in 2017 of more than $36 trillion was nearly triple that of China, and even the EU GDP alone of more than $17.3 trillion eclipses the $12.2 trillion of Beijing. Instead, China comes to the table with the full weight of six times more GDP than that of Italy, which next week could become the first G-7 member state to endorse China's Belt and Road Initiative. China has had similar leverage in the Balkans, where the European Union and the United States have had increased concerns through its heavy investments through its 16+1 format that groups 11 Central European members of the EU with five non-EU members who may over time become candidates Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia. Johannes Hahn, the EU commissioner responsible for enlargement, recently expressed concern that the EU "overestimated Russia and underestimated China" in the Balkans. What concerns him is that heavy borrowing from China among the region's countries could imperil their already weak economies and more than half the $9.4 billion in Chinese investments in the region in 2016 and 2017 went to the non-EU countries of this group. The more immediate concern next week comes in Italy, where the government may sign a leaked memorandum of understanding with China regarding its Belt and Road Initiative, and cooperate in the development of "roads, railways, bridges, civil aviation, ports, energy and telecommunications." Italy wouldn't be the first EU country to sign a BRI deal with China, but it has attracted the most attention because it would be the largest to do so, it is a founding member of the EU, and it is a member of the G7. The agreement would also happen despite disagreements within the Italian government (the foreign ministry is reported to have been cut out) and misgivings among other EU countries. It would happen shortly before an EU-China leaders' summit on April 9. At a time when the U.S. should be working more closely with the EU to frame a unified transatlantic approach to China, the atmosphere is instead colored by mistrust. European leaders worry about President Trump's indications that he might change his approach toward Huawei as a security threat if China compromises on trade, including an intervention in the potential extradition and prosecution of the Huawei CFO. The Germans chafed at a letter made public last week from U.S. Ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell to German Economy Minister Peter Altmaier. It stated that U.S. intelligence cooperation with Germany would suffer if the German government allowed Huawei into its 5G networks. President Xi's visit to Europe, and then again on April 9 for an EU Summit, should trigger what ought to have happened long ago. The European Union needs a coherent strategy toward China that will unite its members. The United States needs to develop a similar strategy of its own, then join transatlantic talks to galvanize democracies to confront what the EU itself called a "systemic rival." The urgent need for a common approach to China should, excuse the term, trump other transatlantic differences. Frederick Kempe is a best-selling author, prize-winning journalist and president & CEO of the Atlantic Council, one of the United States' most influential think tanks on global affairs. He worked at The Wall Street Journal for more than 25 years as a foreign correspondent, assistant managing editor and as the longest-serving editor of the paper's European edition. His latest book "Berlin 1961: Kennedy, Khrushchev, and the Most Dangerous Place on Earth" was a New York Times best-seller and has been published in more than a dozen languages. Follow him on Twitter @FredKempe and subscribe here to Inflection Points, his look each Saturday at the past week's top stories and trends. For more insight from CNBC contributors, follow @CNBCopinion on Twitter. The number of community banks in our nation is at the lowest point in recent history. From a high of 18,033 in 1985, there were 5,477 as of the third quarter of 2018. Because of the interest and value in community banks, many have sold to larger institutions as heavy consolidation has occurred in the banking sector. This consolidation creates opportunities for investors to start new community banks. In sunbelt states like Florida, where we have more than 900 new Floridians daily, some of our major metropolitan areas lack a locally-headquartered community bank. As a result, several new banks have opened in Florida, including Winter Park National Bank in Orlando and Gulfside Bank in Sarasota. There have also been recapitalizations of old banks under new management, such as Beach Community Bank and One Florida Bank. These four banks combined have raised more than $200 million from investors. Local banks are important because our country thrives on small businesses, which employ a majority of Americans. According to the Small Business Administration, small businesses make up 99.7 percent of U.S. employer firms, 64 percent of net new private-sector jobs, and 49.2 percent of private-sector employment. Their lenders of choice tend to be community banks. In an op-ed published by The Wall Street Journal in 2016, JP Morgan Chase Chairman and CEO Jamie Dimon wrote: "In this system, regional and smaller community banks play an indispensable role. They sit close to the communities they serve; their highest-ranking corporate officers live in the same neighborhoods as their clients. They are able to forge deep and long-standing relationships and bring a keen knowledge of the local economy and culture. They frequently are able to provide high-touch and specialized banking services." Dimon is correct. Our nation needs community and regional banks just as we do national banks. Each plays an important role in the U.S. economy and places U.S. companies in a strong position at home and globally. With almost 50 percent of all business loans coming from community banks, that sector of the banking industry must remain strong and vital. A Harvard University study concluded that the Dodd-Frank regulatory environment caused consolidation in the country's banking sector, especially among community banks, raising a concern. A few years ago, the FDIC conducted a study on the role and impact of community banks on the U.S. economy and found: "Community banks tend to be relationship lenders, characterized by local ownership, local control, and local decision making. By carrying out the traditional banking functions of lending and deposit gathering on a local scale, community banks foster economic growth and help to ensure that the financial resources of the local community are put to work on its behalf. Community banks have always been inextricably connected to entrepreneurship. As of 2011, they held 14 percent of banking industry assets, but 46 percent of the industry's small loans to farms and businesses." More recently, the regulatory environment has improved. In 2016, the FDIC cut by more than half the amount of time new community banks are subjected to more stringent regulatory exams. This move should encourage investors to form much-needed new community banks. Currently there are 17 (as of Feb. 2019) new bank applications or start-ups in the U.S. In Florida, several more are planned and are being organized. Generally, when a community bank becomes profitable and well-entrenched, there is interest from buyers. At that point, community banks can either go public (allowing new and original investors to enter or exit ownership by creating a publicly traded stock) or sell to a bigger institution. Conservatively speaking, in the current M&A market, returns to bank investors are at least 200 percent of the original investment. A very smart and excellent choice. Starting community banks is a great investment. Alex Sanchez is president and CEO of the Florida Bankers Association which has membership of small, regional and large financial institutions that together employ tens of thousands of Floridians, safeguard more than $500 billion in deposits and extend more than $135 billion in loans. In 1992, doctors told Sana Health founder and CEO Richard Hanbury that he had just five years to live. A Jeep accident in Yemen at age 19 left him in a wheelchair and in such intense pain that he was rarely able to sleep, he recalls. Prescription drugs, even morphine, lost their effectiveness and the chronic pain from nerve damage only got worse, to the point that it threatened to kill him. It was a 1990's movie "Hudson Hawk" that led Hanbury to develop a cure. In the film, Hawk, played by Bruce Willis, is just out of prison and gets pulled back into a series of heists, including stealing famous works of art. "Bruce Willis did literally save my life with that film," Hanbury said in an interview. "The film went from good and bad to good and bad the whole way through. As I was watching, I realized that had changed my pain levels more than morphine. That's where the whole idea of using a visual stimulus to create a different state of consciousness came from." Sana pain management mask Sana Hanbury created Sana. The company now makes a mask that users wear over their eyes for 15 minutes before bed, or in 15 minute intervals throughout the day as needed, to put them into a relaxed, lower-pain state. The Sana mask measures minute changes between each heartbeat, and administers precisely timed pulses of light and sound to stimulate the audio and visual cortex of the user's brain. Some 50 million people in the U.S. experience chronic pain daily or almost daily. But Sana is also attacking the crisis caused by opioids, which many people turned to for help in dealing with their pain. That led to an addiction epidemic that's now killing 130 Americans every day from overdoses, according to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sana is currently only available for people in clinical trials. It's seeking classification as a medical device, and Hanbury is aiming for approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration by October. Along with other companies in the field like Bioness and Cefaly, Sana is developing neuromodulation devices that have the potential to reduce or completely eliminate pain, as well as over-reliance on opioids to treat it. Wearable migraine management device Cefaly is placed on the forehead, calming the trigeminal nerve with a sedative effect. Cefaly In 2017, the FDA approved a wearable device from Cefaly for acute treatment of migraines. It's placed on the forehead for one or two hours during a headache and sends electric pulses through the skin into the trigeminal nerve in the face, calming the main culprit for pain with a sedative effect. Other pain relieving devices need to be implanted. Bioness's StimRouter, which is FDA approved, is comprised of small wire-like electrodes that are inserted under a patient's skin in a simple surgery, right next to a nerve. An external device can then stimulate that nerve by sending electrical pulses through the electrodes. Bioness CEO Todd Cushman said the company recently had a study published by the University of California, San Diego, with 39 patients. The treatment targeted 11 different nerves. "The results were very very good," Cushman said. "Over 90 percent of the patients had a reduction of 50 percent in their opioid usage and their pain scores went down significantly." Cushman said that 71 percent of people in the study "had a big improvement in their pain scores." Many devices, and their long-term effects, are still unproven and not totally understood. Scientists warn the placebo effect is significant with new treatments, because measuring pain is so subjective. The components of a StimRouter neuromodulation device by Bioness for pain management in San Francisco on February 26, 2019. Katie Schoolov "Who doesn't want to believe that something is going to help their pain?" said Indre Viskontas, who teaches learning and memory and science communication at the University of San Francisco. "As a result they're going to pay a lot of money for it. They're going to have this expectancy and so I think the placebo effect is really strong for a lot of these devices. And I think this is a ripe, vulnerable population." Regulators and health-care providers also want to understand how effective technological approaches are compared to pharmaceutical treatments over the long term. Devices vs. pills Chief Executive Officer of Amazon, Jeff Bezos, tours the facility at the grand opening of the Amazon Spheres, in Seattle, Washington on January 29, 2018. Amazon.com Inc's plan to set up a second headquarters in northern Virginia, after being rebuffed in New York, will face its first test when local officials vote on Saturday on a proposed financial package worth an estimated $51 million. Amazon in November picked National Landing, a site jointly owned by Arlington County and the City of Alexandria, just outside of Washington, along with New York for its so-called HQ2 or second headquarters. That followed a year-long search in which hundreds of municipalities, ranging from Newark, New Jersey, to Indianapolis, competed for the coveted tax-dollars and high-wage jobs the project promises. Amazon in February abruptly scrapped plans to build part of its second headquarters in New York after opposition from local leaders, who were upset by incentives promised by state and city politicians. While opposition in Arlington is still nascent, the vote has become a political flashpoint between the project's supporters and activist opponents. It has given local activists the chance to push for a delay so that the county's proposal can be reviewed and debated further. A five-member panel of the Arlington County Board will vote on whether Amazon will receive the estimated $51 million, a fraction of the $481 million promised by the county. Only 5 percent of the incentives are direct. Amazon has also been offered a $750 million package by the state that the Virginia General Assembly approved with little opposition. The scene at Saturday's vote is likely to be different. At least 100 members from local activist groups are expected to attend. Protests are expected to begin at least an hour before the vote comes up for hearing at 1 pm EST, Reuters has learnt from labor groups. The $51 million includes a controversial direct financial incentive or cash grant of $23 million to Amazon over 15 years, which will be collected from taxes on Arlington hotel rooms. The grant is contingent upon Amazon occupying six million square feet of office space over the first 16 years. Arlington has also offered to invest about $28 million over 10 years of future property tax revenue in onsite infrastructure and open space at the headquarters site. A filing on the county board's website says the $23 million grant and the $28 million in strategic public infrastructure investments were "instrumental in Amazon choosing Arlington for its headquarters." A county spokesman declined to comment. Arlington County Chair Christian Dorsey has stated publicly he had "no interest" in postponing the vote, had heard no suggestions to do so from other board members, and expected the measure to pass. Amazon's 25,000 new jobs will help offset the more than 34,000 jobs Arlington has lost since 2003 due to federal agency closures and other factors, and help diversify the local economy, company spokeswoman Jill Kerr said. "Our investment of $2.5 billion will generate more than $3.2 billion in tax revenue which can be used for public services." Activists from For Us, Not Amazon, a coalition of nine labor groups and grassroots organizations working in areas such as minority advocacy, are not convinced. Roshan Abraham, an organizer from Our Revolution Arlington, a coalition member, said his group wants Amazon to engage with the community more, hold public hearings on the company's investments, address rising housing costs, displacement of low-income families near the proposed site and donate to affordable housing funds. "What we are very concerned about is Amazon has met behind close doors, at invitation events, but haven't met with the community in a public, accessible way," he said. Amazon said it has met with many community leaders and residents, including local businesses, nonprofits, and community and civic associations and will continue to engage with them as it expands its presence in Arlington. (From L) French president Emmanuel Macron, Kenya president Uhuru Kenyatta and DR Congo president Felix Tshisekedi listen during the One Planet Summit on March 14, 2019, in Nairobi. LUDOVIC MARIN | AFP | Getty Images French President Emmanuel Macron embarked on a four-day charm offensive across the Horn of Africa last week, stopping off in Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Kenya. The trip is largely seen as a bid to cement new ties in a region where China's influence has been growing fast. In the first visit by a French president to Kenya since its independence in 1963, Macron concluded his trip with a bang, announcing an estimated 3 billion euros ($3.4 billion) worth of deals with the East African powerhouse. While specifics remain obscure, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta confirmed in a statement Thursday that an agreement with a "French consortium" had been reached on a series of major works to boost Kenya's transport network, including the construction of a commuter rail line linking the Kenyan capital with its central railway station. Accompanied by some of France's corporate giants including Danone, EDF, GE Alstom and Total Group Macron's message was quite clear. "The intent is indeed to open a new partnership in economy," Macron said in a joint press conference with Kenyatta on Wednesday. "Now what we want to do, especially with our delegation of companies, is to be part of your new growth agendaThis is how France could be a long term, credible economic partner," he added. Both sides expressed keen intent to turn this visit into a long-term affair with cooperation spanning beyond business and including a series of environmental and educational alignments of their interests. However, some of the local reaction was less enthusiastic. Twitter was flooded with adverse reactions to Macron's visit. One Tweet read: "People like Macron are the real stumbling blocks to the development in Africa". https://twitter.com/RiekMachar3/status/1105835780348485634 Why this France-Africa push? One clear goal for Macron is to curtail the influence of Beijing. Macron is wooing African counterparts beyond traditional allies in non-Francophone Africa, such as Ethiopia and Kenya. This marks a significant effort to assert France's competitive edge in a region where China's grip runs deep. "France has been competing with China across Africa now for a while", Jean-Pierre Cabestan, Director of the Department of Government and International Studies at Hong Kong Baptist University, told CNBC on Thursday. "For a lot of French companies this has meant fierce business with deals often being signed behind closed doors," added Cabestan who also acts as a member of the French Centre for Research on Contemporary China in Hong Kong. Djiboutian people hold China's national flag before the launching ceremony of a new housing contruction project in Djibouti, on July 4, 2018. The new project is financially supported by China Merchants Group. YASUYOSHI CHIBA/AFP/Getty Images Going from an almost non-existent engagement with the continent pre-2000s, China is now the region's largest economic partner and nation creditor. Figures from a 2015 McKinsey report estimate China's trade with Africa stood at over $185 billion. In comparison, France's trade with the region was estimated at a significantly lower figure of $57 billion. The same report claimed that the number of Chinese firms in Africa is two to nine times the official count. In Kenya, China fronted an estimated $4 billion to build the Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway, Kenya's largest infrastructure project, while in Ethiopia the giant was the financial muscle behind the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway, reportedly worth $3.4 billion. These investments reflect how Kenya, Ethiopia and Djibouti have taken the lead as some of the most important partners in China's "Belt and Road" reach for global influence. "Belt and Road" is often described as a 21st century trading route linking China to Eastern Europe and Africa. It is made up of a "belt" of overland corridors and a maritime "road" of shipping lanes. Macron had decided early on to place Africa as a top priority, a directive he clearly gave to France's 170 ambassadors in his first foreign policy address in 2017. "It is in Africa that the future of the world will largely play out", he boldly stated. Macron has wasted no time in implementing his plan. He swiftly launched the first ever Presidential Council for Africa, his very own advisory squad on France-Africa relations, and actioned his charm offensive blueprint with an initial trip to West Africa in July, and now East Africa. But aside from curtailing Chinese dominance, a closer look at the data reveals the region is growing in economic importance. In 2017, Ethiopia became France's third biggest market with French exports soaring to a record high of over 830 million euros. The number of French companies in Kenya has almost tripled over the past five years. The likes of Peugeot, L'Oreal, Accor, Schneider Electric and Danone have all set up a regional base, reflecting Kenya's growing image as a place to do business. Can France beat China? At first glance, the picture for Paris is bleak. France is no match for China's deep pockets and economic might. But a closer look reveals a subtle shift in dynamics that could give Macron an upper hand. In the first instance, it appears China's approach to doing business with Africa has quietly shifted. Breaking with a tradition of doubling up, China announced in August that it would not be expanding its financial commitment to the region. Beijing's financial pledge would instead cautiously remain at its previous level of $60 billion in 2015, perhaps a symptom of the Chinese economic slowdown. Additionally, some African countries appear to have a greater willingness to do business with countries other than China and Macron appears to be taking advantage of that trend. "Domestic politics is also a big factor here," Cabestan told CNBC. Ethiopia's gradual return to democracy is creating distance with China and realigning interests with France. BEIJING, CHINA - MAY 15: Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) shakes hands with Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta as they attend the welcome ceremony at Yanqi Lake during the Belt and Road Forum May 15, 2017 in Beijing, China. Pool | Getty Images News | Getty Images Meanwhile, Kenya is also keen to diversify from its overt dependence on China. "Kenya, like many other countries in the region, has a big debt to China and there is certainly a willingness to rebalance their foreign relations", Cabestan said. Seemingly playing on these dynamics, Macron made his pitch clear on arrival in Djibouti. "French companies can offer a respectful partnershipone which will not bring on excessive, unsustainable debts and favors the development of local jobs". Macron bolstered his charm offensive with a strong soft power component. He pledged to support the development of Ethiopia's cultural heritage and several higher education partnerships, while pushing an environmental alignment with Kenya, whose energy mix is 75% renewables. In sum, "Macron may be able to out charm China, because of his youth, his style, France's image, but France is not going to replace China", Cabestan told CNBC. Instead France "will more actively compete with China", he added. What now? FILE - In this Monday, Oct. 3, 2011 file photo, Imane Fadil smiles as she leaves the court in Milan, Italy. Italy prosecutors have opened an investigation into the death of a Moroccan model who testified in one of the inquiries linked to ex-Premier Silvio Berlusconi's "bunga bunga" parties. ROME (AP) Italy prosecutors have opened an investigation into the death of a Moroccan model who testified in one of the inquiries linked to ex-Premier Silvio Berlusconi's "bunga bunga" parties. Imane Fadil, 34, died March 1 at a Milan hospital, where she had been treated since Jan. 29 exhibiting "symptoms of poisoning," Milan prosecutor Francesco Greco said, according to Italian news agency ANSA. In 2012, Fadil had told reporters that she feared for her safety after telling prosecutors investigating possible witness tampering in the case that she was offered money in exchange for her silence about what went on at the parties. Berlusconi was acquitted by Italy's higest court in 2015 of charges he paid for sex with an underage woman. ANSA quoted Greco as lamenting that the Humanitas hospital in Rozzano didn't report Imane's complaints or symptoms that were consistent with poisoning while she was being treated. He said prosecutors were only informed of the death when Fadil's lawyer reported it. In a statement reported by ANSA, Humanitas said it provided the results of toxicological exams to prosecutors when they were completed March 6. ANSA quoted unnamed officials as saying the tests indicated a "mix of radioactive substances." Autopsy results are pending. Emails and calls to Humanitas and Greco weren't immediately returned Saturday. IN THE CAR WHERE Paula Hanson lives, often parked outside a local sheriff's station in Lancaster, California, her phone wouldn't stop ringing. Hanson tried to explain to the employees at Discover Bank all that had happened to her. First, she had been laid off from her job, and then her father fell ill and she moved into his house to take care of him. Shortly after he died, last year, Hanson, 62, became homeless. She simply didn't have the money to tackle the $17,000 in credit card debt she owed Discover. Still, the calls continued: "At first, it was once a day," Hanson said, "but then they began to become, like, three times a day." Eventually, her lawyer said, the bank was ringing her five times a day. In an effort to end the calls, Hanson agreed at one point to make a onetime payment of $50 to Discover, though she had less than $200 in her bank account. "I have to make sure I have money to eat," she said, "but the way they pressure you they make you feel like you have to do this." MORE THAN A QUARTER of consumers currently receive automated calls about past-due bills, according to data provided to CNBC by YouMail, a robocall-blocking service. For many, the calls are relentless. "Some people get hundreds of calls in a single month about a late payment or debt," said Alex Quilici, chief executive of YouMail. People often associate the flood of robocalls with scammers. Yet on one ranking this year of robocallers by volume, 8 out of the top 10 were seeking a late payment (although that list doesn't account for when companies deploy many different phone numbers to reach people). COMPANIES USE autodialers to collect their debts because they're cheap and easy to use, said Jeff Hansen, an information technology expert. When he worked at a calling center, Hansen said, they were dialing more than 1 million people an hour for less than a penny per call. But the way technology works makes it difficult for consumers to stop the calls, he said. "You get 10 calls in one day, and on the first call you say, 'I don't have the money. Stop calling,' but these automated procedures keep people out of the loop," he said. "The dialer has been loaded for the whole day, and so it's going to keep calling you." Employees at Discover come up with the right strategy for each individual who is struggling to make their payments, said Derek Cuculich, senior manager of public relations at the company. "We determine their situation and work with them to find a solution to help them through tough times," Cuculich said. TONYA STEVENS BOUGHT a few items, including a washer and dryer, back in 2014 from Conn's HomePlus, a furniture store chain headquartered in Texas. She said she made many of her monthly payments, but sent them in later than the store wanted. Employees of Conn's called her morning, noon and night, Stevens, 49, said. "I was getting anywhere from five to 11 calls a day," she said. Stevens was pushed over the edge, she said, when she was tending to her dying grandmother. "I called them screaming, bawling, 'Let me bury my grandmother,'" she said. All together, Conn's called her more than 1,800 times, according to her lawyer. "As standard operating procedure, our team follows all applicable statutes and regulations, only calling customers that have an outstanding debt," said Ivette Faulkner, a spokeswoman for Conn's. "Once a payment is arranged, we discontinue customer calls." 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. Javid warns tech companies to stop promoting violent extremism Terror like the New Zealand attack must never divide us Sajid Javid, Daily Express Independent regulator could be two years away The Sun MI5 investigates New Zealand shooter The Times Fruits of fanaticism Leader, The Times This horrific atrocity was designed for the social media age Leader, Daily Telegraph Muslims are fearful and hurting but we must not give in to hate Maajid Nawaz, The Times The danger is rising Leader, The Guardian Stay strong is the message from Prince William The Times Brexit 1) DUP welcomes renewed focus on their concerns Technology giants were told last night enough is enough after the massacre of 49 people at two mosques in New Zealand was live-streamed around the world in the first terror attack designed for social media. Sajid Javid, the Home Secretary, condemned tech firms failure to stop the 17-minute video being shared for more than 10 hours after the self-professed white supremacist killer Brenton Tarrant opened fire on Muslims at prayer. Reacting to a tweet in which YouTube claimed it was working to remove the footage, Mr Javid said YouTube, Google, Facebook and Twitter really need to do more to stop violent extremism being promoted on your platforms. He added: Take some ownership. Enough is enough. Daily Telegraph The DUP has welcomed the governments renewed focus on addressing its objections to the Brexit deal ahead of next weeks third Commons vote. The party has twice voted against the deal over concerns it would see Northern Ireland treated differently from the rest of the UK. After talks with ministers in London, its Westminster leader Nigel Dodds said it was still seeking extra guarantees. His party wanted to get a deal but it had to be the right deal, he said. BBC Offer of extra cash for Northern Ireland Daily Telegraph >Today: Brexit 2) No deal better than a big delay, declares Barclay Just get on with it, is the message from Yorkshire Financial Times Neither Hungary nor Italy will veto Daily Telegraph Will EU leaders agree to an extension? BBC Stephen Barclay frayed cabinet collective responsibility still further yesterday by insisting that the UK should leave without a deal rather than endure a long Brexit delay. He defended his decision to vote against a motion mandating the prime minister to seek a short delay to complete legislation minutes after telling MPs that it was in the national interest. Mr Barclay said he had exercised his right to oppose the motion on a free vote because it had raised the prospect that the EU may force a longer delay. He was one of seven cabinet ministers to vote against Theresa Mays appeal to parliament to ask for a Brexit delay. The Times >Yesterday: WATCH: Barclay opposes a long extension rather than No Deal Brexit 3) Calls for May to set out timetable for her departure Senior aides of Theresa May privately believe she is finished and may be forced to set out a timetable for her departure if she is to win the meaningful vote on her Brexit deal. The Telegraph understands that two senior Downing Street figures believe that the Prime Minister should fall on her sword and announce she will quit to ensure she is able to go with dignity. They believe she has permanently lost the trust of Eurosceptics and will have to make way for a new leader after the Conservative Party conference in October. Daily Telegraph Sir Graham Brady told to tap her on the shoulder The Sun PM deserves a gold medal Peter Oborne, Daily Mail >Today: Columnist Nick Hargrave: Whats needed now to get us out of this mess. First, a new leader. Next, a general election. Brexit 4) Corbyn offers talks with SNP on a second referendum Brexit 5) McVey switches to back deal Jeremy Corbyn is to expected hold a summit with the SNP and other opposition parties to discuss backing a second EU referendum after Labours divisions were exposed in a Commons vote. Mr Corbyn wrote to Ian Blackford, the SNPs Westminster leader, offer talks at the earliest opportunity with the aim of trying to break the Brexit impasse. He said the starting point would be examining Labours proposals for a softer Brexit, including a permanent customs union, or another EU referendum. Daily Telegraph Brexiteer Esther McVey, who resigned from Cabinet in protest against Theresa Mays controversial Brexit deal, has now said MPs must back the Prime Ministers withdrawal agreement if they still want Brexit. The former Work and Pensions Secretary said she feels she may be forced to back the third meaningful vote on Prime Minister Theresa Mays Brexit deal. Ms McVey told BBC host Nick Robinson: We will have to think about what are you going to do because you are quite right, the element is now, people will have to take a bad deal rather than no deal. Daily Express 41 per cent of Tories back her deal with 40 per cent preferring leaving with No Deal Daily Mail Brexit 6) MEPs told to consider election run Brexit 6) Forsyth: MPs should vote for the deal to avoid national humiliation The Conservative party has contacted all its MEPs to ask them to consider running for election in May if the prime ministers Brexit deal is defeated on Tuesday. Ashley Fox, the partys leader in the European parliament, contacted MEPs to ask them to think about their options in the event that Theresa Mays deal fails again. May I ask you to reflect over the weekend whether you would wish to stand as a Conservative candidate. I will speak with you all individually after the MV3 [meaningful vote 3) next week, he said in a WhatsApp message to MEPs after MPs voted overwhelmingly to delay Brexit on Thursday night. The Guardian The big question is how many Brexiteer rebels climb down Jacobs ladder. Downing Street think there are 25 to 50 Tory diehards who wont vote for the deal even with the DUP on board.If the deal doesnt pass on Tuesday, then Mrs May will have to go to the European Council on Thursday and beg for a full-on extension to the Article 50 process. I am told she is dreading this personal and national humiliation. The Commons should spare her and, more importantly, the country, that. James Forsyth, The Sun The 19 waverers who might switch Daily Telegraph Brexit 7) Moore: I dont envy Brexiteer MPs a difficult choice, but they should vote against Mays deal The case against voting for Mrs Mays deal is that it wont really let us leave. Trapped by the backstop, we shall either lose our Union or never regain our freedom to trade. EU rules will creep ever further into our commercial lives and we shall have lost all power to make, alter or stop them. Far from replacing Mrs May, we will find her hailed as a miracle worker who, having been in the deepest valley, climbed the highest hill. She will stay, and so, in every future negotiation, we shall lose. We will be the laughing stock of the world. There is a deeper, democratic objection to voting for her deal. What would it say to the people out of doors? There are 650 MPs in the Commons. Is no one left to speak for the majority who put them there? If so, dont suppose that the Commons in its current form, or the main parties that compose it, will last much longer. After Mrs Mays fiasco is finished, there will be the next battle. The country will need people with clean hands to fight it. Charles Moore, Daily Telegraph Other comment Its not too late to stop Brexit Matthew Parris, The Times This past week has shamed the mother of Parliaments Leader, The Sun Historic hostilities and misunderstandings between the UK and Europe have led to mistrust Tony Barber, Financial Times Our sneering and pompous MPs could threaten the future of our democracy Dominic Sandbrook, Daily Mail >Yesterday: Truss takes a swipe at Cabinet sexism Male members of the cabinet talk for longer than their female colleagues, according to Liz Truss, who claimed that she had faced sexism every day since entering the Commons in 2010. Ive got a degree in economics, Im an accountant, I know numbers. I dont really need to have things explained to me in basic detail, but theres an element of that you tend to get as a woman, the Treasury chief secretary told The Times in an interview. Ms Truss, 43, is part of a large pack of potential candidates in a Tory leadership race expected this year. Although she claimed that she was not thinking about the contest, she ruled out being a running-mate and used the interview to lay out eye-catching policy ideas. The Times Why not offer an Oxbridge place to the best 100 pupils in each area? Interview with Liz Truss, The Times Johnson is most popular choice for next Tory leader The leadership speech that he should give Robert Shrimsley, Financial Times Hinds and Gove split over pupils strike Boris Johnson would be the most popular choice among Tory voters to replace Theresa May as leader, according to a YouGov poll for The Times.When all voters were asked who would be a good replacement for Mrs May, 25 per cent said Mr Johnson, 19 per cent said Jacob Rees-Mogg and 20 per cent said Sajid Javid, the home secretary. Sixteen per cent chose David Davis or Amber Rudd, 14 per cent Michael Gove or Jeremy Hunt and 11 per cent Dominic Raab.YouGov cautioned that name recognition plays a big part in such results. The Times Thousands of children across the country went on strike from school yesterday, stopping traffic and climbing on statues as they joined a global protest against climate change.Michael Gove, the environment secretary, sent a video message endorsing the strikes, despite cracking down on parents taking children out of school when he was education secretary.Damian Hinds, the education secretary, said it would be better for pupils to feel strongly about the environment inside rather than outside school. The Times >Yesterday: Comment: Richard Benyon: Climate change is bigger than Brexit Loughton gets through legal change to allow mothers to sign birth certificates Swinson tipped for next Leader of the Lib Dems Mothers of the bride and the groom will finally be able to sign their marriage certificates after MPs agreed to change the law. Since 1837, only dads have been allowed to endorse the legal record of their childs happy day. Mums will now be able to sign their childs marriage certificate after MPs agreed to change the law. But Tory MP Tim Loughton, who brought forward the Bill, told The Sun: Finally we have equality. The Sun The Liberal Democrat deputy leader, Jo Swinson, has been tipped as the frontrunner to replace the partys outgoing leader, Vince Cable, who has announced plans to step down from the party in May. Cable, a former business secretary in the coalition government, announced that he would set a timetable for his departure at the partys spring conference this weekend. Three MPs were expected to be in the running: Swinson, the former cabinet minister Ed Davey and the partys education spokeswoman, Layla Moran. The Guardian Increase in reports of modern slavery straining council services News in brief My grief for the victims of the New Zealand mosque attack Qanta Ahmed, The Spectator Eurosceptic MPs should hold their nerve as anti-Brexit colleagues dig their own electoral graves Tom Colsy, Brexit Central Up to 20 Labour MPs could back Mays deal Independent Ignore the Spending Review at your peril the stakes have never been higher James Heywood, CapX Will the DUP wobble on its backstop opposition? Owen Polley, The Article A 10-fold increase in the number of suspected cases of modern slavery reported by local authorities in just five years is having a huge impact on already stretched council services, their representative body warned on Saturday. Figures collated by the National Crime Agency show that local authorities last year reported 1,306 potential victims of modern slavery to a government oversight system called the national referral mechanism, compared with 131 in 2013. Councils last year accounted for 19 per cent of the 6,716 cases in England and Wales reported to the national referral mechanism, which decides whether someone is a victim of modern slavery. The Local Government Association, which represents councils in England and Wales, said the rise was a reminder of the current huge pressures on services. Modern slavery is defined by the National Crime Agency as human trafficking, slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour. Financial Times Andy Cook is Chief Executive of the Centre for Social Justice. The most recent investigation of the Centre for Social Justices Housing Commission is published today. We heard one message loud and clear from charities fighting social injustice on the front line: The lack of security in the private rented sector (PRS) is making it even harder for people to address the pathways to poverty. Whether thats Real Action in West London telling us about the damage done to childrens education as they are forced to move schools, or the Oasis Project in Brighton, telling us how an unstable home leaves their clients unable to address the other issues in their lives, such as addiction to drugs and alcohol, members of the CSJ Alliance voiced their concerns to us about the interplay between housing insecurity and the challenges holding individuals back. In its third interim report, Putting Down Roots, the attention of the Commission turns to these concerns directly. The private rented sector has experienced rapid growth over the last two decades. As the Commission found, in the decade to 2017 alone, the number of renting households with children increased by just under one million. The number of renters on below average incomes increased by 1.5 million. And the number of older renters (aged 65+) increased by almost 150,000. Household types that could traditionally rely on the security granted by owner occupation or a social tenancy now face having to uproot their lives and look for a new home at just two months notice. And while the average tenancy length is 4.1 years, 81 per cent of renters are on contracts offering security of just six to twelve months. We heard directly about the immense pressure this can place on families. A mother of two in Cheshire told us: This week we received notice of possession. We now have to move out at the end of January, just six months after moving in. But theres nothing available in this area that we can afford at the moment. Weve done nothing wrong, and are exemplary tenants whove paid up front and just want a quiet family life . . . Our lives have been turned upside down by this nightmare. The liberalisation of the private rental market in the 1980s breathed new life into a stagnant sector. More of the people most likely to rent privately and benefit from its flexibility that is, students, travelling workers, and young people could take advantage of the increased dynamism (but reduced security) in the sector. Yet this context has since changed profoundly. The sector has grown from one in ten households in the late 1980s to one in five today. This has not only impacted tenants, but landlords too. The Commission also found that the processes private landlords rely on to limit costly void periods and to gain possession of their property in legitimate circumstances have grown unfit for purpose. Many landlords now rely on Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988, the clause which enables them to evict a tenant for no reason at two months notice, because the process of gaining possession during a fixed term tenancy through Section 8 is slow, expensive, and ineffective. Thankfully, the Government is increasingly alive to these developments. It has recently run consultations advancing proposals for wide ranging reforms to private tenancies in England. The Government must get these reforms right balancing fairly the needs of both tenants and landlords. To bring the sector up to date, the Commission proposes a package of reforms that would radically strengthen our communities and equip thousands more households with the tools they need to thrive. First, the Government should introduce a new Standard Tenancy with a four-year term, mirroring the average tenancy length as recorded in the English Housing Survey of 4.1 years. Crucially, the Standard Tenancy would retain the private rented sectors flexibility advantage. Second, the Government should abolish Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988, meaning that families will no longer suffer from the upheaval and anxiety of being evicted at two months notice without legitimate grounds being proved. In order to replace Section 21, however, the CSJ proposes new rules equipping landlords with a wider range of legitimate grounds to gain possession of their properties during the fixed term, such as if they want to sell up or move in, as well as accelerated grounds for when serious rent arrears are incurred. Third, and just as importantly, the Government should establish stronger securities for the landlords currently let down by the housing justice system. The creation of a specialist Housing Court to deal with housing cases more quickly and effectively would provide swifter and fairer access to justice. The CSJ Housing Commission will continue to work with the Government in the coming months to ensure that we achieve all we can from private rented sector reform in England. By helping renters put down roots, a new Standard Tenancy would improve security for both tenants and landlords and change millions of lives for the better. Jake Berry is the Minister for High Streets, and is MP for Rossendale and Darwen. There can be little doubt that our high streets have faced tough times recently. As more and more of us shop online, with next day deliveries, click and collect and free returns, high street shops have come under pressure, with even stalwarts of the high street feeling the pinch. But should we simply resign ourselves to leaving our high streets to face the fate of consumer forces? Absolutely not. Growing up in Liverpool taught me two things: firstly, being a Conservative did not always result in popularity, and secondly that our high streets represent more than just bricks and mortar. High streets can be the centre of communities, the hub of towns. It is on our high streets where new friends are made and old friends come together; it is where the cafes, shops and convenience stores that we all know call home; and it is where jobs are provided for local people. High streets have served our communities for generations, and theyre worth fighting for. Thats why today were launching the first ever High Street Saturday, a national campaign day where people, businesses, and politicians can come together to celebrate their local high street. We want to recognise the contribution our high streets make to the economy and their place at the heart of our communities. So today, on High Street Saturday, I urge you all to shop for at least one item, and hopefully more, on your local high street. We want people to be proud of their high streets; to spend more time discovering independent shops and retailers; to see more visitors attracted by their charms. This is how we will ensure our high streets and local businesses can continue to thrive. Today were providing 9.7 million for exactly this purpose. Every local authority in England will be able to access this new funding immediately to help improve their high streets, whether thats cleaning them up or organising events to promote them. This follows campaigns organised by individuals up and down the country which have seen unprecedented numbers of people come out to clean up their towns, their roads and their beaches. It is this collaboration that can bring people together to make their high streets more attractive to residents and to visitors. But we also cannot ignore the changes our high street shops are having to adapt to. It is not simply enough to make the high street a more attractive place to shop and to visit, it is about providing the right support for local businesses to flourish. As Conservatives, we have always been committed to creating the right environment for small businesses to prosper. Thats why were investing heavily in them. Weve provided over 10 billion of business rates support since 2016, cutting small retailers bills by a third. This has led to 90 per cent of all shops, pubs and restaurants saving up to 8,000 a year, and taken 600,000 businesses out of paying business rates altogether. And were backing local communities, who know what their high streets need better than politicians in Westminster. Weve put 675 million of funding into the Future High Streets Fund to help modernise high streets and town centres. As High Streets Minister, Ive visited countless high streets across the country and it is clear to me that no two high streets are the same, which is why we want local people to work with their councils to decide how the Future High Streets Fund is best spent. It is vital we continue to support our high streets so that they can be enjoyed by generations to come, and can continue to contribute invaluably to local economies and to communities. So lets come together today High Street Saturday to celebrate and support our high streets. The Vienna Convention is a very, very slender ladder down which to retreat Now that the Prime Minister won the breathing space she needs to bring forward MVIII the next in the Governments ongoing series of decisive votes on Brexit she must return to the thorny issue of how to win it. As her strategy is currently to maintain the unity of the Conservative Party and the broad thrust of its 2017 manifesto, she needs to do this by winning over the substantial bloc of Tory MPs holding out against the deal. The good news is that a number of those who rebelled on the first Meaningful Vote came home on the second, and there are many signs that more are keen for an opportunity to do so. Indeed, the signal failure of the bid to amend the deal was that Geoffrey Cox didnt feel able to provide these MPs with adequate reassurances even though many of them really wanted him to. In a debate on the legal advice Jacob Rees-Mogg invited Steve Barclay, the Brexit Secretary, to offer him reassurance on this point. (This brief exchange is worth reading, for well return to it). Meanwhile the Times reports one senior Brexiteer said that many of the European Research Group could have voted with the Government on the second meaningful vote had Cox referred to the Vienna Convention in his advice, charging him with incompetence. But you can forgive those who are now sceptical about the Attorney Generals new proposal to use the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, to give it its full title, as Britains backstop get-out clause, and not just because Cox didnt feel able to place great weight on it before political necessity forced his hand. The Convention itself, as the BBC explains, essentially states that parties to a treaty have the right to withdraw from it in the event of relevant circumstances changing significantly in a manner the signatories could not foresee. However, Martin Howe, one of the Brexiteers legal experts and a member of the European Research Groups so-called Star Chamber which rejected Coxs advice, thinks this is a complete non-starter, telling the Evening Standard that: The leading case in the International Court of Justice (the Gabcikovo-Nagymaros case between Hungary and Slovakia) shows this requires radical change of circumstances. The fall of the Soviet Union, disappearance of the Warsaw Pact, and dissolution of Czechoslovakia, were not sufficient to satisfy this ground. The other issue is, under Article 62, the change of circumstances has to be unforeseeable. As we are talking about this change of circumstances now, it cannot be unforeseeable. However Lord Pannick QC, a constitutional lawyer (and supporter of a second referendum) takes a different view, writing in a letter to the Times: Article 1 (4) of the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland states that the objective of the withdrawal agreement is not to establish a permanent relationship between the Union and the UK. If, therefore, the UK and the EU were unable to reach an agreement on Northern Ireland/Ireland, despite good faith negotiations and despite the arbitration procedures, and if the UK were therefore to be faced (against its will) with a permanent backstop arrangement, the UK would be entitled to terminate the withdrawal agreement under Article 62 of the Vienna convention on the Law of Treaties. Another complication is that, as this note from the House of Commons library points out, the Vienna Convention only covers treaties between states, whereas the EU is an international organisation and the Vienna Convention involving international organisations is not yet in force. But advocates of this approach notably Sir Edward Leigh, who tabled an amendment on it seem to believe that the Convention will nonetheless provide what the HoCL calls a very strong guide on the relevant international law. That may be so, but it makes an already very slender ladder from Cox slenderer still and thats before taking into account the political likelihood of taking such a decisive approach when the time comes. In light of all the above, here is the circumstances in which Barclay set out that the United Kingdom could, hypothetically, use Article 62 of the Vienna Convention to depart the backstop: if the United Kingdom took the reasonable view, on clear evidence, that the objectives of the protocol were no longer being proportionately served by its provisions because, for example, it was no longer protecting the 1998 agreement in all its dimensions. On the surface, this ties up with Coxs other thinking about the Belfast Agreement, which we have covered elsewhere. But apply Martin Howes reasoning to the above statement and that sense evaporates. First, Barclays circumstances appear require the treaty to become a threat to the Belfast Agreement being one now, which Cox appears to think it might be, is not a change in circumstances. Think about the dominant narrative surrounding the Agreement and mull how likely that is. Second, in order to qualify under the convention such a threat needs to be unforeseen, meaning almost by definition that concerned Brexiteers cant think up such circumstances now. Indeed, any such effort would be self-defeating. The technical possibility of the stars aligning in a totally unforeseen and hugely improbable way is not a unilateral exit from the backstop so much as the outside chance of an act of God. Little wonder Rees-Mogg wasnt convinced. In the end, though, it may be enough. If enough Brexiteer MPs share Simon Clarkes view that they are increasingly operating with a gun to our head, Coxs Viennese Codpiece may yet provide just about enough cover for a retreat. Helen Hanna Casey, CEO of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services, will be honored with the 2019 Women of Influence Career Achievement Award at the Pittsburgh Business Times Women of Influence event on Wednesday at the Westin Convention Center Hotel. Howard Hanna Real Estate Services is the third-largest real estate company in the United States, the top privately owned broker in the nation and the largest home seller in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New York. Christian Abraham / Christian Abraham BRIDGEPORT Police have identified the man who was arrested Friday after allegedly kidnapping his ex-girlfriend at gunpoint. Lynwood Whitley, a city resident, was arrested by state police on I-95 South near Exit 6 Friday, city spokeswoman Rowena White said Saturday. Patients say they lost thousands of dollars after their dentist died Dozens of patients say they're out thousands of dollars after their dentist died and their dental work is unfinished. Boeing is upgrading the stall prevention software on its 737 MAX, industry sources said Friday, as French investigators scoured black box data from the latest of two deadly crashes involving the aircraft in recent months. Workers walk next to a Boeing 737 MAX 8 airplane parked at Boeing Field, Thursday, March 14, 2019, in Seattle. [File photo: AP/Ted S. Warren] The MAX has been grounded worldwide following Sunday's Ethiopia Airlines disaster that killed all 157 on board, and the fallout has left the company, regulators and airlines scrambling to respond. Boeing will fine-tune its MCAS system -- implicated in the crash of a Lion Air 737 MAX 8 in Indonesia in October -- within 10 days, said two sources, who cautioned that the cause of the latest crash has yet to be determined. Boeing has halted deliveries of its top-selling model ahead of the software patch, which was already underway prior to the latest incident near Addis Ababa. Asked for details about the timeline for the fix, a Boeing spokesman Friday would only say it would be installed in "coming weeks." The black boxes from the Ethiopian craft, which was only a few months old and crashed minutes after takeoff, are being analyzed by the French authorities to determine the cause of the accident. An Ethiopian delegation delivered the cockpit voice and flight data recorders, which were damaged in the disaster, to France's BEA air safety agency to begin the investigation on Friday. The Lion Air crash also came just minutes after takeoff, killing 189 people, and US authorities say there is evidence of similarities between the accidents. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said findings from the crash site and "newly refined satellite data" warranted "further investigation of the possibility of a shared cause for the two incidents." Several American pilots also reported issues with the MCAS and the FAA said it had ordered Boeing to issue a fix by April. The aerospace giant held a conference call on Thursday with at least three carriers using the 737 MAX and gave them the patch, one source said, and the other airlines will get it early next week. Meanwhile, American pilots have raised questions about the training provided to the flight crews. One who flew a MAX 8 on Monday told AFP that US-trained pilots -- many of whom come from the military -- would have been able to react quickly to the MCAS flaw, if that occured in the accident last weekend. And Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger -- noted for his safe landing of a damaged plane on the Hudson River in New York without loss of life -- questioned the lack of experience of the Ethiopian first officer on the doomed flight, who reportedly had only 200 hours of flight time. "A cockpit crew must be a team of experts, not a captain and an apprentice," he said on social media. But he also worried about the lag in getting a software fix installed. "It has been obvious since the Lion Air crash that a redesign of the 737 MAX 8 has been urgently needed ... and the announced proposed fixes do not go far enough." - Boeing shares hit - Thousands of miles away, distraught families were demanding answers as they visited the deep black crater where the plane smashed into a field outside the capital, disintegrating on impact. Ethiopian Airlines, Africa's largest carrier, sent the black boxes to France because it does not have the equipment to analyze the data. The information that they contain helps explain 90 percent of all crashes, according to aviation experts. An FAA emergency order has grounded 737 MAX 8 and MAX 9 aircraft until further notice, effectively taking the aircraft out of the skies globally. The move came after a growing number of airlines and countries decided not to fly the planes or ban them from their airspace until it is determined there are no safety issues. US President Donald Trump told reporters the "safety of the American people and all peoples is our paramount concern". Trump and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed exchanged condolences Friday, Abiy said on Twitter, with the US president praising Ethiopian Airlines as a "strong institution" and offering technical support. The 737 MAX series is Boeing's fastest-selling model and it is still relatively new with fewer than 500 in service. There are 74 registered in the United States and 387 in use worldwide with 59 carriers, according to the FAA. Boeing's shares have fallen 10 percent since Sunday's crash -- wiping out about $25 billion in value -- after regaining some ground Friday after report that a fix was coming soon. - 'Panicky voice' - According to the flight data recorder, the pilots of Lion Air Flight 610 struggled to control the aircraft as the MCAS repeatedly pushed the nose down after takeoff. At least four American pilots later complained of the same problem with the aircraft, according to documents reviewed by AFP on the Aviation Safety Reporting System, a voluntary incident database maintained by NASA. In two anonymous reports on flights just after the Lion Air disaster, US pilots disconnected the autopilot and corrected the plane's trajectory in response. The Ethiopian Airlines pilots reported similar difficulties before their aircraft plunged to the ground. According to The New York Times, air traffic controllers observed the Ethiopian Airlines plane "oscillating up and down by hundreds of feet" prior to the crash. Speaking in a "panicky voice," the doomed aircraft's captain requested permission to return to the airport almost immediately after takeoff as the plane "accelerated to abnormal speed," the newspaper reported Thursday, citing a person who had reviewed the air traffic communications. "Break break, request back to home," the Times quoted the pilot as saying just prior to the crash. "Request vector (direction) for landing." Boeing was criticized after the Lion Air crash for allegedly failing to adequately inform 737 pilots about the functioning of the stall prevention system. Ethiopian Airlines CEO Tewolde GebreMariam said the doomed flight's captain was an experienced aviator with more than 8,000 flight hours. Dear Editor: This past week, New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie announced that publicly financed elections would not be included in the Assembly one-house budget. This is unacceptable. If we want a democracy worthy of the name, we need to enact this reform in this years state budget. We need fresh energy and vision in government and representatives who actually represent their constituents. That means people who have themselves experienced the challenge of finding an affordable apartment on a service workers wage, or getting an appointment with the a doctor within 20 miles who actually accepts the insurance policy that costs a third of her income. Public financing of elections would make it possible for working-class people to run for office and challenge the political dominance of well-connected elites. With a small-donor matching system, candidates could rely on the support of ordinary New Yorkers rather than the super-rich. That means lobbyists and big-money campaign donors would lose their stranglehold over lawmakers in Albany, and we finally could enact long-overdue education, health care and environmental reforms. New York state must pass public financing in this years budget. Assemblyman Kevin Cahill needs to strongly support public financing and publicly demand that it is included in the state budget. We deserve the best democracy possible, and as our elected representative in Albany, it is Cahills responsibility to make it happen. Rebecca Rojer Kingston, N.Y. The writer is chairwoman of Ulster People for Justice & Democracy Lets take a pause and a deep breath. Lets contemplate the deep meaning of the weeks frenetic events at Westminster. Lets count the corpses, praise the winners and be honest about the losers. For what we are witnessing is one of the great democratic dramas in modern British history. Of course, many people blame MPs for failing as yet to seal a Brexit deal. But I disagree. I believe that Parliament has done its job well. A rare laugh: Those who say that Theresa May is finished are making a rudimentary error of judgement Those who say that MPs are out of touch and letting voters down do not understand how British politics works. Those, too, who vilify Commons Speaker John Bercow as the devil incarnate are misguided. He has allowed our elected representatives the freedom to debate the big issues. And those who say that Theresa May is finished are making a rudimentary error of judgement. Let me explain. It is true that Mrs May has suffered a series of humiliations, including a mutiny by some Cabinet ministers led by Amber Rudd. At moments, the PM looked so frail that one feared for her health. And, yes, she has made blunders. Mrs May must take much of the blame for Thursday nights row between No 10 and the Chief Whip, when Cabinet ministers were given the nod that they could ignore a three-line whip. But regardless of countless headlines of Meltdown, Chaos, Despair, Down And Rout and Clueless, Mrs May is still in Downing Street. Even more crucially, her EU withdrawal deal is still very much on the table. That makes her a survivor. Those who say that MPs are out of touch and letting voters down do not understand how British politics works. Those, too, who vilify Commons Speaker John Bercow as the devil incarnate are misguided The Prime Minister was the big winner this week. Which means that as well as Labour, the losers were the Tory Brexit-hardliners. I believe their risibly misnamed European Research Group, organised by nerdy Steve Baker MP, is in collapse. Thanks to clever generalship by Mrs May, these Brussels-haters are now at war among themselves. There is no doubt that they are responsible for a delay in Brexit. If theyre not careful, they will scupper it altogether. Mrs Mays waiting game has outfoxed No Deal fanatics such as Boris Johnson and Jacob Rees-Mogg. Vitally, their nutty idea that Britain could crash out of the EU on March 29 has been exploded. This is a strategic triumph for No 10 of the first order. The available options have been reduced to either a wait of at least a year before Britain leaves the EU or, alternatively, a short delay that gives time for Mrs Mays deal to finally be approved by MPs and then implemented. Just imagine what would have happened if shed sacked Amber Rudd - shed have won praise for being strong and decisive. But shed probably have split her party This means that the members of the ERG face a stark choice. Either they sheepishly admit defeat and back Mrs Mays deal or they carry on opposing her but risk their long-cherished Brexit never happening. By forcing those hardline Brexiteers on her backbenches into a box is evidence that Mrs May has followed a clever strategy. Those who doubt me should consider the words of her closest adviser, Brexit negotiator Olly Robbins, which were overheard in a Brussels bar a month ago. The mandarin predicted exactly the situation we are in today that a long extension was planned if MPs turned down the PMs deal. In other words, MPs would ultimately be faced with the choice between backing it or having to engage in what would most likely be yet more fruitless talks with Brussels. We should give credit where credit is due. Mrs Mays feline statecraft has completely outmanoeuvred the hardline Brexiteers. This weekend, Im convinced, she is tantalisingly close to realising her vision of Brexit. Furthermore, she has reached this point without splitting the Conservative Party. This is a far greater achievement than many realise. Many (me included) predicted the Party could formally split between Brexiteers and Remainers. That could still happen, but Mrs May has so far averted this calamity. This brings me to a profound political paradox. To win her long-term objective, Mrs May has had to endure buffeting defeats. She had to risk looking weak in order to succeed. Just imagine what would have happened if shed sacked Amber Rudd and fellow Cabinet rebels Greg Clark and David Gauke for defying a three-line whip on Wednesday. Shed have won praise for being strong and decisive. But shed probably have split her party. It is certainly true that never before in modern political history have Cabinet ministers defied a prime minister in this manner and survived. But weve entered a period in politics where all conventional rules can be forgotten. A typhoon is sweeping through Parliament. The objective is survival by any means. Mrs May apart, the other winner from this weeks events is Parliament. Many, including the historian Dominic Sandbrook (writing in todays Mail on Pages 18 and 19) have condemned MPs for being irresponsible and deeply detached from the lives of ordinary people. I fundamentally disagree. I have never felt prouder of the British political system than over the past seven days. Bear in mind that the Brexit debate has divided the country. Its divided families. Its split political parties. Its aroused immensely strong passions. So it is natural that its led to divisions, splits and passion in Parliament. Yet there has been no violence in the streets. This is because all sides of the argument have been aired by MPs. Parliament has done its job. Across the political spectrum, there have been the admirable performances of Labours John Mann and Caroline Flint, who have stood up for their constituents who voted to leave the EU. On the Tory side, Sir Oliver Letwin MP has fought valiantly try to bring about cross-party political co-operation. These are not self-centred individuals representing their own interests or an out-of-touch political class. They are engaged in an honest struggle towards a workable solution. Readers will know that I have often criticised Speaker Bercows vanity and foolishness. That said, over the past few months he has stood up for Parliament. But if there was a gold medal for the person who has most steadfastly upheld British democracy, it ought to go to Theresa May. Show some steel Former Liberal Democrat leader Sir David Steel stands accused, in his own words, of hiding his head in the sand over the horrible child abuse allegations against his now deceased colleague Sir Cyril Smith. Lord Steel deserves praise for his belated honesty, but he should nevertheless voluntarily give up his peerage. Blunderer turned back-stabber An egregious example is Nick Timothy, chief of staff to Theresa May when she became Prime Minister. Sadly, he was responsible for a series of cack-handed blunders One disturbing phenomenon in modern politics has been the increasing behind-the-scenes influence of advisers. They have power but are unaccountable to the public. An egregious example is Nick Timothy, chief of staff to Theresa May when she became Prime Minister. Sadly, he was responsible for a series of cack-handed blunders. These included being part-responsible for what was seen as the worst election campaign [2017] in living memory and putting forward a deeply flawed social care plan which Mrs May was forced to scrap. Following his enforced resignation, Mr Timothy has been firing broadsides in articles for hard Brexit-supporting newspapers. This week, he launched an unforgiveable attack on his former boss saying Mrs May had lost control of Brexit. Such disloyalty is contemptible. Justice for all There has been widespread criticism of the decision to charge a former British paratrooper with murder in the wake of the Bloody Sunday inquiry. I cannot comment on the facts of the case. However, the British Army is the finest and most decent in the world. If it slips from its very high standards, it is right that any charges should be tested in court. Twelve women in their 80s and 90s have shared the advice they would give to their younger selves and encouraged women to 'always enjoy their life to the full.' The group of women, who all now live in care homes across the UK, stressed the importance of 'always being truthful,' 'kind and understanding.' Two of the women interviewed, Margaret Crowther, 91, and Anne Gallagher, 82, both encouraged younger generations to 'be determined' and just 'go for it.' In the inspirational video, released by Care UK, most of the dozen women used their wise words to tell others to trust themselves and strive for their dreams. Mary Scates, 92, who lives in Bury St Edmonds, pictured right now and left in an undated photograph, advised women to be enjoy themselves 'without doing any harm to anybody else' Doris, who lives at Priors House in Leamington Spa, said to always 'listen' and Eileen, who is at the same care home, kept things simple by advising to always 'be kind.' Mary Scates, 92, who lives in Bury St Edmonds, thought this was important too and said: 'Be honest to other people, to yourself - just be yourself. Enjoy yourself, without doing any harm to anybody else'. Rita Atkinson, 87, who lives in Stowmarket, Suffolk, added that she'd ask women to: 'Always to be truthful, and most of all, always to be kind and understanding.' Anne Gallagher, 82, from Bromsgrove, said: 'Go for it, go for what you want to do and give it your best shot. Don't give up at the first hurdle - or two.' Margaret Crowther, 91, said: 'Make sure you know what you want to do, and be determined to do it'. Pauline Allen, 82, from Bury St Edmonds, pictured right now and left in an undated pictured, said to 'live your life to the full, but to what you know to be right and wrong' For Joyce Bloom, 91, who lives in Stowmarket, pictured right now and left on her wedding day, being happy was her biggest advice as well as 'helping other people' For Pam Alleyne, aged 85, Leamington Spa, the most important life lesson was to remember that life is too short. She said she would advise her younger self: 'Live every moment and take each day as it comes, because nobody knows how long we've got'. The wise women's words come after International Women's Day last week. Margaret Crowther, 91, pictured now, said: 'Make sure you know what you want to do, and be determined to do it' before adding that women should 'go for it' For Pam Alleyne, aged 85, Leamington Spa, pictured left, the most important life lesson was to remember that life is too short. Right, Doris, also of Leamington Spa, said to always 'listen' Jacqui White, marketing director at Care UK, said: 'International Women's Day is a time to celebrate the successes and stories of women. 'We want society to recognise the wealth of expertise and knowledge stored in the minds of older ladies like those in our video. 'It was wonderful to hear about the lives of women who lived through a social revolution, witnessing the changing attitude towards equality but also to hear that the attitude of determination was fiercely alive in these women at a time when equality wasn't a given.' Being Queen Victoria isnt easy just ask Jenna Coleman. Since taking on the role three years ago, the svelte young actress has spent most of her time wearing one sort of pregnancy bump or another (they vary in size, according to how pregnant Victorias meant to be) and on the day we meet its rather a large one. Ummph! is the noise she makes when she finally gets to sit down at the end of a long day of filming in an aircraft hangar at a former RAF base in Yorkshire where Buckingham Palace has been lovingly re-created. Not only is she sporting a bump, but also layers of petticoats beneath her dress. Its exhausting just looking at her. Yes, the bump is big, she laughs. Stars of ITV's Victoria, Jenna Coleman, Tom Hughes and the actors who play their children, pictured in a new image inspired by the famous Winterhalter portrait Were literally at the stage of being about to drop baby number six. Victoria had nine children in total five of whom were depicted in the famous Winterhalter portrait of her family, which has been re-created by the cast of the ITV series (main image) so Jenna has some way to go. Thankfully shes resigned to being pregnant so often, and her only real concern is trying to find new ways of doing labour scenes. The problem is Ive run out of noises, she admits. While being pregnant hasnt put her off having children, Jenna, who in real life is dating Tom Hughes, who plays Victorias husband Prince Albert, says she wouldnt have so many. Oh no, not nine of them. I can tell you that for a fact. But there are a few advantages to being permanently with child. One is that she doesnt have to wear a corset, and the second is she can really have fun in the role. Victoria gets a bit agitated when shes pregnant, as well as walking with a waddle. Being pregnant and vulnerable is one of the themes of the third series of the costume drama, which has been a ratings hit both here and in the US. While earlier series followed her struggle to gain her independence from her mother, her romance with Albert and her problems trying to assert herself as queen, this series looks at a threat not only to her, but to the monarchy itself. The series picks up in 1848 with revolution in the air. Its the queen mum! German artist Franz Winterhalter who painted The Royal Family in 1846 (pictured) was one of the first to portray Queen Victoria as a mother German artist Franz Winterhalters painting The Royal Family In 1846 was one of the first to portray Queen Victoria as both sovereign and mother. The scene captures a charming family moment. Two girls (Princesses Victoria and Alice) tickle their baby sister (Princess Helena), while their little brother (Prince Alfred, dressed in skirts) toddles towards them and Mummy cuddles her eldest (Prince Albert Edward, or Bertie). But it also symbolises the strength of their dynasty, as Victoria and Albert are seated on thrones surrounded by their five healthy children. The painting hung in the dining room at Osborne House, the home they adored on the Isle of Wight, and it was one of Victorias favourite depictions of her husband, although critics likened Alberts hands to a farmers. Its now in Buckingham Palaces East Gallery. Advertisement Karl Marx has published his Communist manifesto, kings are being deposed, including the French monarch Louis Philippe, and the people are rising up. In England the Chartist movement, calling for votes for working men, is becoming ever more angry and in one scene a brick is thrown through the window of Buckingham Palace. Its the first time that Victoria realises her position on the throne is not secure, and its a scary time for her, says Victorias writer Daisy Goodwin. The series kicks off with Louis Philippe, who she went to stay with in the last series, being deposed, fleeing and arriving at her door. 'It makes her realise that even she is not safe. I thought it was an interesting idea for us, as a world obsessed with popularity, to see her contemplate being a queen without a people. Writer Daisy Goodwin chose to explore Victoria's (as portrayed by Jenna in series two) insecurity while on on the throne - due to the fact people around the world are currently obsessed with popularity 'The brick through the window at Buckingham Palace really happened and I wondered how that must feel when youre already vulnerable and pregnant, to have your sense of self change. Things became so fraught that sandbags were placed outside Buckingham Palace because of fears that fires might be started, and in the series the problem leads to more rows between the passionate Victoria and her sensible husband Albert. Everyone wants her to leave London, saying its not safe, but she feels she needs to be seen to have the people on her side, says Daisy. 'They have a humdinger of a row in front of the whole court and she throws a glass of wine at him, something else that actually happened. Into this already delicate situation come several characters who have the potential to disrupt things even more. She realises her position is not secure, its scary Victorias half-sister Feodora, played by Kate Fleetwood, arrives penniless from Germany. She immediately makes herself at home but also stirs things up (see below). Meanwhile, Victorias prime minister John Russell (John Sessions) appears unable to control his wayward foreign secretary Lord Palmerston (Lewis star Laurence Fox), a womaniser whos insanely popular with the public. Theres an element of Boris Johnson in him, mixed with Willy Wonka, says Laurence, who plays the politician as 20 years younger than he was in 1848. Hes rude, he undermines everyone and refuses to behave well to anybody, including the queen. From the start, when we see him announcing in the Commons that hes sent a letter to France supporting the republic, its clear he and Victoria will have problems. ITV's Victoria is loosely based on the diaries of Queen Victoria (pictured as portrayed by Jenna Coleman in series one), Jenna revealed she reads the diaries but only up to where the show is Laurence adds, On one occasion at the Palace, the queen says to him, Do you know why youre here? and he replies, Because Im an asset to any gathering. Jenna Coleman says that in Palmerston, Victoria sees not only an arrogant upstart politician, but also someone the public might love more than her. Hes a tricky character. 'He doesnt have any respect for protocol and doesnt abide by her rules. 'Hes charismatic and the public love him they call him Pam. 'She sees him as a rival in the popularity stakes. Politics-wise, Daisy says that while researching the show she was struck by how similar it was to today. The debate then was whether we should be allied to the continent or be in splendid isolation. 'Palmerston is very much for isolation. The series is loosely based on Victorias diaries as well as contemporaneous accounts. I like to read her diaries but I only read to where were up to, says Jenna. Enter the scheming half-sister A key character we meet in this series is Queen Victorias half-sister, Princess Feodora. Feodoras father, German prince Emich Carl of Leiningen, died when she was six; her mother, Princess Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld, then married the Duke of Kent, the fourth son of George III, and gave birth to the future Queen Victoria a year later. The two girls were brought up together at Kensington Palace and were close despite a 12-year age gap. Kate Fleetwood (pictured) stars as Queen Victorias half-sister Princess Feodora in the new series. She grew up close to the Queen despite a 12-year age group She used to come into my room very often and sit writing her letters she was always so gay and cheerful, Victoria recalled. When George IV, Victorias uncle, took a fancy to the teenage Feodora, her mother feared the match could produce heirs that would stop Victoria taking the throne. Feodora was hastily married off to a German prince. In the series, Feodora arrives in London in rags after escaping the turmoil of Europe. Kate Fleetwood, who plays her (pictured), says shes a sympathetic character but mischievous. Shes a master manipulator. 'She believes she could have been queen herself had she not been knocked off her perch. 'Shes been festering in Germany and wants to get back to a lifestyle she feels entitled to, so she plays Victoria and Albert off against each other. 'Its a complicated family, only this time the sibling rivalry is with the queen of England. Advertisement I love the details, like when she writes about how shes walking with the prime minister but all she wants to do is roll in the grass. The eight-part run also covers other real-life events including Victorias first visit to Ireland, at the time of the Potato Famine. The series ends with one of the greatest triumphs of the Victorian age, the Great Exhibition of 1851. Filming took place at the glass Palm House in Liverpools Sefton Park, standing in for the Crystal Palace in Hyde Park that housed the exhibition. In the run up to the Great Exhibition everyone was saying what a disaster it was going to be, says Daisy. It was like the 2012 Olympics when everyone was saying what a waste of money it was and how it would be a failure, but actually it was the pinnacle of Alberts contribution to this nation. 'For me, Albert is the unsung hero of the Victorian era. Victoria returns to ITV this month. Celebrities share the stories behind their favourite photographs. This week its former Speaker Baroness Boothroyd, 89 Former Speaker Baroness Boothroyd, 89, (pictured) reveals the stories behind a selection of her favourite photos 1933: I might look as if butter wouldnt melt but I was actually rather cheeky. Im an only child and my parents Archie and Mary worked in the textile mills in Yorkshire. I had a happy childhood, even though my father was often unemployed. He wanted me to work in the rating department I remember him saying, People have always got rates to pay so youll always have a job, unlike me. 1949: This is me (centre) winning a beauty contest at a Labour League of Youth rally in Yorkshire thankfully we didnt have to wear swimsuits. Actually, Im not even sure we had swimsuits, some things were still in short supply then. The only swimsuit I can remember wearing was a knitted one on holiday in Blackpool when I was a girl. When it got wet it went saggy. 1960: Fed up with the old men of Europe in power at this time de Gaulle, Adenauer [the German chancellor] and Macmillan I flew to the US with 200 in my pocket and joined the Kennedy for President campaign. I went to JFKs inauguration in Washington, DC. Ill never forget that cold, snowy morning on Capitol Hill I got there at 6am, and still have a copy of the inauguration programme signed by the man himself. Afterwards I spent a couple of years working for a US congressman before returning home. I earned more as a speechwriter in Washington than British MPs were earning back home. 1973: Here I am with my mum, Mary, the first time I was elected as an MP. Ive always enjoyed campaigning I remember knocking on doors with Mum when I was very young. It took me a while to become a Labour MP. I stood four times before I was elected by the people of West Bromwich, then a booming metal-bashing town on the edge of the Black Country. I went on to represent it for 27 years. After I was elected, Mum told a reporter something I had never heard her say before, Im so proud of her. 1992: Becoming the Speaker of The House of Commons was the best thing that ever happened to me. I was so honoured to receive the votes of the Labour Party, all the minority parties and a number of Conservative MPs too. I won by a landslide. I was particularly proud to be the first woman Speaker hopefully well have another female Speaker before too long. Being the Speaker is a great responsibility and I was determined to be independent and impartial. I love Parliament and the way it works, but it doesnt work unless you have a Speaker who is totally impartial. 1996: Nelson Mandela, at the age of 78, addressed the joint Houses of Parliament in Westminster Hall the first time a foreign leader had spoken in Westminster Hall since General de Gaulle in 1960. I spoke to him the night before and said, Do be careful coming down those steps, Mr President, theyre very worn and I dont want you to stumble. I reminded him just before the ceremony and he said, Dont worry, Madam Speaker, I came to look at them at six oclock this morning for myself. He then took my hand and we walked down the halls age-old steps together. 2001: My old friends [the veteran Labour politicians] Barbara Castle and Denis Healey supported me when I became a peer in the House Of Lords. I took my seat as a crossbencher as its tradition that ex-Speakers stay above the party fray. I would have liked to have been called Baroness Betty Boothroyd, but I was told it was against the rules to have ones first name in the title so I became Baroness Boothroyd of Sandwell, the Black Country borough that incorporates my old constituency. 2019: Im a great believer in speaking your mind no matter what your age. I made a powerful speech about Brexit wearing one of my favourite blue outfits in the House Of Lords a couple of months ago. I have a number of red and blue outfits and like both colours enormously. Once, when I was Speaker and was entertaining while wearing a blue evening dress, Mrs Thatcher said to me, Blue suits you well, Madam Speaker. I replied, So does red. As told to York Membery. Baroness Boothroyd is patron of the David Nott Foundation (davidnottfoundation.com), which provides medical training for disasters and wars Monash University has been named the fastest growing 'Sugar Baby' school in Australia, with 209 new student sign-ups to a popular dating service in the last 12 months. The Victoria-based university now has a total of 589 Sugar Baby students attending tutorials and lectures, with many of them likely using the funds to pay for their education debt. In second place was the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology with 184 new ladies joining Seeking Arrangement to date older and wealthier 'Sugar Daddies'. There are a total of 590 Sugar Babies at the uni. Monash University has been named the fastest growing 'Sugar Baby' school in Australia The University of Sydney ranked third with 170, University of Melbourne next with 134 and the final two were the University of Queensland with 128 and the University of New South Wales with 117. Seeking Arrangement revealed there are over 177,000 students who have embraced Sugar Dating to help pay for their university tuition. And with the average cost of a degree already at $30,000, it's little wonder these pupils are turning to alternative sources of income for help. How many Sugar Babies are at your university? University New sign-ups in 2018 Total number of college Sugar Babies #1 Monash University 209 589 #2 Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology 184 590 #3 University of Sydney 170 606 #4 University of Melbourne 134 423 #5 University of Queensland 128 520 #6 University of New South Wales 117 280 The Victoria-based university has a total of 589 Sugar Baby students attending tutorials and lectures, with many of them likely using the funds to pay for debt (Monash University pictured) Sugar Baby students in Australia receive an average monthly allowance of $3,000, which is double the potential amount earned working a part-time job at the national minimum wage. 'Students who want to explore bigger cities and the better educations offered in them can't, even with the educational loan program offered in Australia,' said CEO and founder of Seeking Arrangement Brandon Wade. 'It's a great program but it does nothing to offset costs while in school.' The website defines a Sugar Bay as 'attractive people looking for the finer things in life. They appreciate exotic trips and gifts.' The University of Sydney ranked third with 170 (pictured), University of Melbourne next with 134 and the final two were the University of Queensland with 128 and the University of New South Wales with 117 'Sugar Babies get to experience a luxurious lifestyle and meet wealthy people on a regular basis,' it said. Meanwhile Sugar Daddies are defined as 'successful men and women who know what they want'. 'They're driven and enjoy attractive company by their side. Money isn't an issue, thus they are generous when it comes to supporting a Sugar Baby.' As first thoughts after having a baby go, it was a strange one. Producer Meg Leonard was resting, watching some daytime television shortly after a gruelling labour, when a bunch of Cornish fishermen came on This Morning and sang some sea shanties. It was their first television performance as the group Fishermans Friends - had just signed a record deal which was noteworthy in itself, but Meg immediately saw the potential for a film as did her boyfriend and fellow producer Nick Moorcroft. This particular baby has taken slightly longer to birth than their previous one their film Fishermans Friends has taken nine years to make but what a joy it is. Actor Daniel Mays, centre, plays a record executive in the film whose boss jokingly tells him to sign up a group of singing fishermen, who are performing in Port Isaac, Cornwall The film is based on the true story of the Fisherman's Friends who really did sign a million pound record deal. Band members pictured left to right are Peter Rowe, Julian Brown, Jeremy Brown, Jon Cleave, Billy Hawkins, Nigel Sherratt, John McDonnell Based on the unlikely true story of a London record executive spotting some Cornish fisherman performing for charity and deciding to sign them for a 1million deal, the film the worlds first sea shanty musical nets far more than your average biopic. It is also a study in what makes happiness money or personal contentment and it looks at Cornish rebelliousness, history, community, friendship too. It even manages to pack in some romance. From the moment I saw the group, I was struck by their characters, their traditions, the power of their community and forms of songs they were singing, recalls Meg, who co-wrote the film with Nick as well as producing it. Stories like this dont come along very often. Danny Mays plays a record executive, also called Danny, who is in Port Isaac for a stag do. His boss plays a trick on him and as a joke, tells him to sign up the group, who are performing on the quayside to raise money for a lifeboat charity. Cast, pictured on location, and crew stayed with the real fishermen during filming of the movie The film does feature a romance but also looks at Cornish rebelliousness and community and was filmed in Port Isaac, left and right, where the band was really formed Actor Danny, pictured with Tuppence Middleton who plays Alwyn, said the film is 'uplifting'. His character falls in love with Alwyn, one of the fishermen's daughters, in the film The fishermen are suspicious about Dannys motivations but as he starts to record their music for a demo record, he gradually falls in love with their music as well as one of the fishermens daughters. Its a fun, uplifting and charming film and just what the nation needs right now, says Danny, who is best known for his work in Mrs Biggs, Line of Duty and the Dads Army film. It starts as a fish out of water story but then it becomes incredibly moving. It is such an unusual story but was also a very special thing to film. The movie was made in Port Isaac where the band are from. It meant that not only were the original group on constant stand-by to help with advice, but also many of the cast and crew stayed with the fishermen. And every night there was a sing song in the villages one and only pub. It was a really magical filming experience, says Danny. There is one pub there, the Golden Lion, which features in the film and every night we would be in there singing. Weve got some very funny videos of us all singing someone would just start up a tune and before you knew it the whole pub was singing. The lyrics just bleed into you. Danny, pictured in the film, said the cast would often end up in the village's one and only pub Most of the film is based on truth, but dramatic license was taken to make band manager Danny character fall in love with fisherman's daughter Alwyn, pictured together in a scene The real band, some members pictured, are friends who grew up together and sang shanties for 20 years before getting their million pound record deal When the group, real members pictured sitting together at the harbor in Port Isaac, were first spoken too about signing to a record label they laughed the executive out of the pub I like the idea of people coming together and just singing and I think its something everyone should strive for. People spend so much time solo now, just looking at their screens, you can forget the almost tribal joy you can get from being with other people. Tuppence Middleton, the War and Peace actress who plays Dannys love interest and fishermans daughter Alwyn, adds: I have never filmed anything like this because it was such an immersive experience. We would be filming with the people whose story we were telling, and then listening to them singing these wonderful sea shanties. The character of Danny is based on the real-life manager of Fishermans Friends Ian Brown, a London record executive who still looks after them. Dramatic license has been used to make him fall in love not only with the fishermen and their music but also Cornwall and Alwyn. The character of Danny personifies Ians love affair with the group and Cornwall, says Meg. There is no real Alwyn but we were inspired by a lot of strong women in that village who are affectionately termed the FWAGS fishermens wives and girlfriends. The four key fishermen characters in the film led by James Purefoys Jim are also amalgamations of the ten group members. But many of the most moving moments in the film are based completely on reality. There is a bit in the film where Danny comes to the pub and first talks to the group about signing them up and they drown him out in laughter and that is exactly what happened, says group member Jon Cleaves. He came to talk to us in what we call the FFS corner in the pub its where we always sit. None of us could believe it but we reacted in a way that surprised them. The band, pictured at Wickham Festival Hampshire in 2017, have now performed in front of the Queen and at the Proms The four key fishermen characters in the film are inspired by the ten real, pictured, Fisherman's Friends group members The film also shows the men's love of Cornwall. Pictured are some members of the real band Normally people are hungry for music success but we just shrugged our shoulders. We describe it as being discovered when we didnt think we were lost. Another key scene features the band starting a singsong in a London pub as they hit the big smoke in an effort to get signed. I normally bore the guys to tears because I make them do cultural things wherever we go, recalls Jon. So when we were in London, I herded everyone to the British Museum. A few of them refused to come in and went to the pub opposite. By the time we joined them, theyd already had a couple and we started singing. At first people seemed a bit horrified but once they got over the shock of seeing a bunch of hairy Cornish men singing, they actually quite enjoyed it and by the end people were joining in and dancing on tables. The film also makes a good fist of depicting not only the sometimes grumpy, often funny and always unruly fishermen but also their Cornish patriotism, which isnt something often explored in British films. We are very independent people, says Jon. We all have our day jobs and we all liked our lives as they already were. And then this thing happened to us. I like the way the film has captured our spirit and the independent spirit of Cornwall. 'We are Cornish ahead of anything else. I think when you live close to the elements like we do, you have things in perspective. You realise things like music and films and all that is great but actually its not the be all and end all of everything. Prince Charles, pictured meeting the band in 2016, was quite taken with the shanty singing Fisherman's Friends and even asked how to join The Duchess of Cornwall also met the band at the Port Isaac Village Hall, Cornwall, in 2016 Despite their reluctance to become stars, the movie will only lead to more success for the worlds most unusual boyband who mainly tour outside of the main fishing season. As well as appearing at Glastonbury and in front of the Queen, at an England versus Australia game at Twickenham and in front of 50,000 people at The Proms In The Park, they have also performed for Prince Charles who appeared quite stricken by them. Charles came and saw us perform to raise money for the lifeboats, recalls Jon. He asked us, what would one need to do to join? I told him, Im afraid you have to apply in writing. No one can just elbow their way in, not even him. Fishermans Friends is out today. Representative Mary Gay Scanlon of Pennsylvania's 5th district had an incredibly busy day on Wednesday so busy, in fact, that it took until the late afternoon for her to finally realize that she was wearing two mismatched shoes. Rep. Scanlon, 59, shared pictures of her funny wardrobe mishap on Twitter shortly after noticing that she'd been wearing one black flat and one blue one all day. 'People ask me all the time about the pace of things in DC,' she wrote. 'Its 4:04PM and I just noticed that I have gone an entire day with two different shoes on.' Whoops! Representative Mary Gay Scanlon of Pennsylvania's 5th district tweeted on Wednesday that she didn't realize she was wearing two different shoes Crazy day! The 59-year-old said the day was so crazy that she didn't even noticed her mistake until a staffer pointed it out in the late afternoon Relatable: She has teh same pair of flats in black and navy and didn't notice that she slipped on a left from one pair and a right from the other Don't tell her! She'd already worked quite a bit that day, including attend a House Judiciary Committee meeting on Capitol Hill (pictured) where it seems no one pointed out her shoes Rep. Scanlon included a picture of herself sitting on a sofa in a cerulean sheath dress. Her shoes are the same style, but one is black and the other is navy. It seems that the congresswoman bought multiple pairs of the shoes in different colors and didn't notice while getting dressed that she slipped on one of each. Speaking to Teen Vogue, she explained that she was so busy at work that the day was nearly over before she noticed her mismatched shoes. 'The day was jam-packed as usual. Then, at about 4 PM, I sat down on the couch in our back office to talk with my staff [and] that is when someone pointed out that my shoes did not match,' she said. 'But I did not have time to change them before my next four evening events,' she added. Got you! Dozens of women and men on Twitter responded with images of their own unintentionally mismatched footwear Her tweet has now been liked over 29,000 times, and hundreds of people have replied many reassuring the congresswoman that they'd been in her ahem shoes themselves. 'A couple years back, it was around 2 in the afternoon when I looked down and wondered why my shoelaces were different colors. Took me a few seconds to figure it out,' wrote one woman, sharing a photo of her mismatched sneakers. 'Can't imagine what that's like,' wrote actress Bebe Neuwirth, including a picture of two different black shoes on her feet. 'I went all day wondering why I was off balance. I thought it was emotional, turns out it was literal,' wrote another woman of her mismatched shoes. Been there, done that! Many totally understood how rushing could mess up your outfit While mostly women who tend to have larger shoe collections were the ones relating, a few men chimed in. Some of the mismatched shoe pairings were understandable, with people wearing two shoes in somewhat similar styles or colors. Others, though, made fellow Twitter users wonder just how such a mix-up could happen. Rep. Scanlon, a Democrat who also serves as the Vice-Chair of the House Judiciary Committee, was happy to see so many people connecting with her post. 'I think the reactions from people are amazing,' she told Teen Vogue. 'They realize their elected representatives put their shoes on one foot at a time too, and sometimes, the wrong ones.' Meanwhile, Rep. Scanlon isn't the only congresswoman to earn some extra attention for her wardrobe recently. That coat: Pictures of Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer leaving the White House in December swept social media last year Fire! The 78-year-old left the White House that day bundled up in a red-orange coat with a straight silhouette and a high collar.The designer, Max Mara, re-released the coat this week On December 11, 78-year-old California Representative Nancy Pelosi and her colleague Chuck Schumer met with the President at the White House for a conversation meant to head off a government shutdown. While they couldn't come to an agreement and the meeting grew quite contentious, one opinion was pretty unanimous on social media in the following days: Pelosi's chic, high-collar winter coat was fabulous. The Max Mara coat had been in her closet for years. She first wore it to President Obama's second inauguration in 2013 and she didn't mean to be making any sort of statement when she wore it again. 'No, contrary to what you might read,' she replied. 'It was cold and I needed a coat, so I went shopping in my closet. I had no plan or intention; it was just clean. Clean should be the first criteria.' Still, Twitter users went wild for it, and Max Mara took notice. Though the outerwear was originally released in late 2012 and hasn't been available to buy for some time, the brand promised to re-released it this year. The coat is officially back on the market as of yesterday. 'Max Mara is honored that U.S. House Representative @nancypelosi wore the #MaxMaraFireCoat to her recent historic meeting at the White House,' the brand's account tweeted. Savannah Guthrie and her husband, Mike Feldman, celebrated five years of marriage on Friday, but they have been together a lot longer than that. The 47-year-old Today anchor took to Twitter and Instagram on their anniversary to share a sweet throwback photo from their wedding day before taking part in her own version of the 10-year challenge meme. 'How sweet it is to be loved by you, Michael Feldman,' she captioned their wedding photo. 'You make me happy every single day. And made all my dreams come true. Happy anniversary, @feldmike #fiveyears!' Love: Savannah Guthrie and her husband, Mike Feldman, celebrated their five-year wedding anniversary on Friday. She took to social media to share this sweet image from their wedding Aww! The Today anchor gushed that her husband makes her 'happy every single day' Savannah is looking over her shoulder and smiling while locking eyes with her husband in the stunning image that was taken at their wedding reception. The post received plenty of love from her friends, including her co-star Carson Daly and his wife, Siri. 'Happy Anniversary!! Love u guys,' Carson wrote, while Siri commented: 'Two of my favorites - learn so much through your love, Happy Day @savannahguthrie and @feldmike!' Meanwhile, Odd Mom Out star Jill Kargman posted three heart emoji and a toasting champagne glasses emoji in honor of the couple. Looking back: In a subsequent post, the mother-of-two shared a photo of herself with Mike when they first started dating ten years ago So sweet: As part of the 10-year challenge, she also shared a more recent photo of her husband giving her a kiss on the cheek Even more to celebrate: She revealed that they are also celebrating ten years as a couple In a subsequent post, Savannah shared a photo of herself with Mike when they first started dating ten years ago along with a more recent snapshot of her husband giving her a sweet kiss on the cheek. 'But we dated a looooong time. Ten years ago this week! #tenyearchallenge,' she wrote. Savanna wasn't the only one feeling a sense of nostalgia on their anniversary. Mike also took to Instagram to pay tribute to his wife. The proud husband shared both a color photo and a close-up black and white image of himself kissing his wife on their wedding day. Romantic moment: In honor of the anniversary, Mike also posted photos from their wedding Memory: A black and white photo that was taken on their wedding day shows Mike giving his bride a kiss on the cheek Time flies: The doting husband called Savannah his best friend in his sweet tribute 'Five years? Feels like yesterday. Time flies when your [sic] doing life with your best friend. Happy Anniversary!' he wrote. Savannah and Mike, a communications consultant, tied the knot in the middle of the desert, right outside her home town of Tucson, Arizona, on March 15, 2014. The journalist used her wedding reception to drop the bombshell on her close family and friends that she was four months pregnant. Five months later, the couple welcomed their now four-year-old daughter, Vale. In December 2016, Savannah gave birth to their two-year-old son, Charley. Looking glam: Savannah and Mike were all smiles at the Vanity Fair Oscar party last month Parents: Savannah and Mike have two children, Vale, four, and Charley, two Earlier this week, the proud mom posted heartwarming photos of her little boy kissing a giant stuffed carrot at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centers annual Bunny Hop. 'If you see a giant carrot today, kiss it #Charley,' she wrote. Savannah, who was an honorary chair at the fundraiser, shared her trick for getting stuff done with her children without increasing their screentime. 'A lot of us dont want to have our kids in front of the screen all the time but if you want to get anything done around the house you sometimes have to,' she told People. 'A good middle ground is you can find childrens audio stories on Spotify, and its great!' Too cute: Savannah posted heartwarming photos of her little boy kissing a giant stuffed carrot at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centers annual Bunny Hop on Tuesday Close-up: 'If you see a giant carrot today, kiss it #Charley,' she wrote Proud mom: A week before her wedding anniversary, Savannah paid tribute to her only daughter in honor of International Women's Day, writing: 'She's going places, that's for sure' 'They can listen to Peter Pan, Cinderella, and you can do the dishes or whatever you gotta do but they still have to use their imaginations,' she explained. A week before her wedding anniversary, Savannah paid tribute to her only daughter in honor of International Women's Day. The mother-of-two shared photos of Vale wearing a Dr. Seuss shirt with her face painted and a snapshot of her smiling brightly for the camera. 'She is going places, thats for sure - thanks to all the courageous, visionary, dont-take-no-for-an-answer women who came before her,' Savanna wrote. 'Thats who we celebrate on #InternationalWomensDay. Thank you for paving the way for my girl to dream her biggest dream.' Meghan Markle's closest male friend, Markus Anderson, 41, personally recommended Sara Latham, 48 as Meghan and Harry's new communications chief Meghan Markles closest male friend helped pick her controversial new press chief, The Mail on Sunday can reveal. Canadian Markus Anderson, 41, personally recommended powerful political PR guru Sara Latham as Meghan and Harrys new 140,000-a-year communications chief. Mr Anderson a former waiter has known the Duchess of Sussex since before her relationship with Prince Harry. A global consultant for the Soho House private members clubs group, he arranged for Meghan and Harry to meet secretly at the companys properties in Toronto, London and Somerset during their courtship. The appointment of Ms Latham, 48, has caused controversy as she has represented some of the worlds most prominent Left-leaning politicians, including Bill and Hillary Clinton, Tony Blair and the late Labour Minister Tessa Jowell. A former senior Palace official is also believed to have been influential in the appointment. Sara and Markus move in the same circles, said an insider. Sara is liberal like Meghan and has spent her life working with politicians on the Left. Markus is aware of how brilliant she is and helped pick her for Meghan because they share the same views. Sara is super-qualified, well-connected and very discreet. The appointment of Ms Latham, 48, has caused controversy as she has represented some of the worlds most prominent Left-leaning politicians, including Bill and Hillary Clinton, Tony Blair and the late Labour Minister Tessa Jowell Ms Latham worked for PR agency Freuds from 2003 to 2005. She returned last August as a senior managing partner and is close to agency founder Matthew Freud. Mr Freud is a close friend of Soho House founder Nick Jones. A source said: Freuds regularly holds events at Soho House properties and Markus and Sara have been in each others orbit for some time and he is very aware of her reputation. Markus is very protective of Meghan. When Meghan started getting negative press, it was natural that he would want to find her the best representation. And Sara is the best. Ms Lathams CV is impressive, if unusually political, for a Royal press chief. Born in Virginia, she obtained a degree in fine arts before starting work in Bill Clintons White House. A source who knew her then describes her as a whip smart woman who rose quickly through the ranks because of her intelligence, loyalty and discretion. A source said: 'Sara is liberal like Meghan and has spent her life working with politicians on the Left. Markus is aware of how brilliant she is and helped pick her for Meghan because they share the same views' She later worked closely with Mr Blair during his 2005 General Election campaign and was a managing director of Philip Gould Associates, the PR firm set up by the late Lord Gould, one of Blairs closest advisors, before working for Blairs Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell. After returning to the US, she worked with the Clintons, running Mrs Clintons failed 2016 presidential bid. Ms Latham has made no secret of her loathing for Donald Trump, branding him misogynistic. Shes a political operative of the highest order, a Washington source added. Its an unusual move for her to enter the world of royalty but its a clear sign Meghan and Harry have plans on a global scale which will involve political manoeuvring behind the scenes which is Saras forte. She is devoted to liberal and philanthropic causes. Ms Latham is expected to move into her new offices at Buckingham Palace within days following last weeks announcement that William and Kate were splitting their offices from Meghan and Harrys. The new teenage romance film Five Feet Apart tells the fictional story of two smitten cystic fibrosis patients who can never touch - but some real-life patients say the movie is inaccurate and even dangerous Much of the cystic fibrosis community is recoiling and speaking out against Five Feet Apart, the new film, hitting theaters Friday, about two smitten teenagers with the condition. The filmmakers behind Five Feet Apart worked with a cystic fibrosis foundation and interviewed people living with the incurable genetic condition in preparation for the film, but some say its portrayal is dangerous and inaccurate. Portions of the community are also slamming social media influences and companies who posted comparisons of the movie's characters who are too sick to touch other people to the 'hardship' of long distance relationships. And amid the controversy is a bitter irony. Many cystic fibrosis patients can't go see Five Feet Apart for the same reason the two main characters must keep a safe distance: Another moviegoer's mild infection could be deadly to them. Some 70,000 people worldwide are living with cystic fibrosis, a rare genetic disorder that makes mucus that should be thin and slick become sticky, clogging the lungs, damaging organs, and leaving them vulnerable to infections that can prove deadly for them. People with the condition have an average life expectancy of about 40, and most will die without a lung transplant. The movie takes its name from a rule that CF patients like its main characters Will (left, played Cole Sprouse) and Stella (right, played by Haley Lu Richardson) by must remain six feet apart at all times - not five, one of several inaccuracies pointed out by CF patients and bloggers Five Feet Apart is a fictional portrayal of two teenagers, Stella and Will (played by Haley Lu Richardson and Cole Sprouse, respectively), with cystic fibrosis (CF). The actors have garnered praise for thoughtful portrayals of patients with CF, and for keeping the focus of media events for the film on the condition. Though certainly there's been gratitude from the CF community that the film will (hopefully) raise awareness of the disease and drive support to research and advocacy groups, a number of rather fundamental flaws have been raised, too. For starters, the title. 'Five feet apart' is a reference to the distance people with CF are supposed to keep between themselves and others with the disease or another infection because CF patients are especially vulnerable to infections which can fatally intensify their condition. Only, the rule is actually to stay six feet apart. The title is apparently suggestive that the pair of teenaged lovers break the rule, a little, to be close to one another - but that's not the only inaccuracy members of the CF community take issue with. One blogger and CF patient, Julia Rae, called the film's trailer 'dangerously inaccurate.' Citing scenes where Stella and Will are in close proximity to one another without medical grade masks, even touching one another's medications - behaviors that would be highly dangerous for real CF patients - Rae said the movie is not raising the right kind of awareness. 'Awareness that comes from misinformation is damaging,' she wrote. 'There is an ethical responsibility when we are talking about the risk to human life.' Others have seemed more open to the film's need to take 'creative license' to portray the story, but ad campaigns drew some comparisons that CF community members found cringe-worthy. Social media influences like Brooke Butler made #ad posts comparing the plight of CF sufferers to missing loved ones living in other states (left), drawing 'disgust' from people with the disease, like Elsie Tellier (right) Several social media influencers - including Annie LeBlanc, Brooke Butler, Alan Stokes and Jayden Bartels - posted ads for the movie, then deleted them - but not before they could be screen-capped by upset members of the CF community. In their posts, they related the plight of CF patients to missing their loved ones that live in other states. Instagram user @battling 2breathe said the posts 'infuriate' her. Instagram user @Battling2breathe called the ads 'infuriating' and 'a shame' '...this is how the're "sponsoring CF". They barely mention CF. Living in a different state from your family member and having to do phone calls is NOTHING like two people with deadly bacteria who can get very sick by touching. 'This is being twisted out of being twisted out of context and it's a shame. You can go visit your cousins, aunts, and uncles without possibly killing them.' Other CF community members labeled the influencer ads a 'slap in the face' of the community and 'ableist,' calling out director Justin Baldoni. The filmmakers hosted a few screenings for CF patients at hospitals and through foundations. It's also been noted that, for many people with CF, going to regular theater screenings of Five Feet Apart could be dangerous because the close quarters to one another could expose them to an potentially deadly infection - just like film's characters. But for other CF patients, Five Feet Apart director Justin Baldoni posted a video of several real-life CF patients, with instructions for how to protect one another if they're going to risk seeing the movie in theaters: Asthma sufferers with one of the most severe forms of the disease could benefit from a breakthrough drug after patients in a major clinical trial saw the number of attacks almost halved. Nearly 2,000 people in 22 countries took part in tests on dupilumab, an injectable medicine developed by biopharmaceutical company Sanofi. The results revealed that attacks plummeted by up to 48 per cent in those given regular jabs over the course of a year. Toni Evans, 28, from Dorset, pictured, risked triggering an attack every time she laughed She used inhalers from the age of six and used to wheeze like Darth Vader despite years of treatment that included injections, inhalers and a pump inserted into her stomach Now she travels from Swanage, Dorset to London once every three months for an injection The drug targets eosinophilic asthma, an especially dangerous form that affects more than 250,000 children and adults in the UK. Most asthma cases are triggered by allergies to house dust mites, pollen or pets. But eosinophilic asthma is caused by high levels of a particular white blood cell, called eosinophils, and so does not respond to the most commonly used medicines, such as inhaled steroids. The new drug could offer a lifeline to thousands of patients struggling to control symptoms. Among the British patients to take part in the trial carried out at the Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth was dental nurse Toni Evans, 28, who is now able to laugh for the first time in years without fear of triggering an attack. She is also able to eat properly and is no longer malnourished due to the severity of her illness. Her eosinophilic asthma symptoms have nearly vanished and she said: Since being on this drug I have got my life back. I have put on a stone and a half in weight and Im finally able to exercise and do things like anyone else. I can go to the gym or go swimming, go for walks along the beach and focus on my career. But its the little things like laughing, which other people take for granted, that mean so much to me now. During the trial, patients were either given a placebo or the real drug in an injection once every two weeks. The jabs were then reduced to once a month, then once every three months. Ms Evans receives an injection of dupilumab once every three months having participated on a clinical trial Volunteers who saw a reduction in asthma attacks and improvement in lung function are still receiving it as Sanofi agreed to keep up the supply, even though it is not yet funded or licensed on the NHS. A panel from the European Medicines Agency approved the drug in late February and final approval from the European Union is expected soon. It is hoped the 70,000-a-year drug will then be sanctioned by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence for the NHS. The drug works by blocking interleukin -4 and -13, chemicals produced by the body that control the production and release of eosinophils from the bone marrow. By blocking them, dupilumab halts the excess production of the white blood cells, reducing inflammation in the lungs, easing asthma attacks and improving lung function. Asthma remains a killer among the 5.4 million British sufferers, with three lives claimed each day by the lung disease. The UK has some of the highest asthma death rates in the EU, with 2.21 deaths per 100,000 people. Professor Anoop Chauhan, director of research at Queen Alexandra Hospital, said treatments must become more tailored for individual forms of the condition. He added: In asthma, traditionally we have a one-size-fits-all approach historically and that means everybody gets the same drug. But the way patients respond depends on what type of asthma they have. What we want is the right drug for them. Toni, from Swanage in Dorset, makes a 140-mile round trip to get a jab every three months. She used inhalers from the age of six and used to wheeze like Darth Vader despite years of treatment that included injections, inhalers and a pump inserted into her stomach. Running out of options, medics told her that laser lung surgery would give her three years of normal life, but after that she would be back to coughing, wheezing and being unable to laugh. They warned that laser treatment could be done only once and that Toni should use those years to do everything she had planned for her life. But she now has two jobs, hopes to move into a new home with her boyfriend and is starting to plan a family after being given the life-changing drug. She said her life sentence had been lifted. I have a new favourite phrase: Where is my It is usually said while Im stomping around the house, hissing and cursing. Dont get me wrong, I know how annoying it is. Both my daughters when they lived with us and my husband Chris often seemed unable to leave the house without first rushing around trying to find their keys, bag, wallet, you name it. Before you say its a family trait, I usually knew where theyd put it: right slap bang in the middle of the kitchen table. Not there, Id say? Try your coat pocket. And so on. Now Im the one completely unable to find that wretched mobile phone. Or dog lead. Or, today, my bobble hat. In other news, Im obsessed with Bohemian Rhapsody, the new Queen biopic. Seriously. Chris and I went to see it at the cinema with our friends Liz and Nick. And then when I got home, I downloaded it and watched it again. And again. I think Ive now watched it ten times. I dont really remember a lot of it, so its just as enjoyable every time My consultant says the reason I like seeing the same film over and over comes back down to routines: it is comforting for those of us with the A Word, when things are familiar. Personally, I think I just love the music. So who knows Half the time, even when the house phone rings I have a hard time locating it. Im convinced things are moving of their own accord. To make matters worse, Chris has decided the house needs completely redecorating. Were having parts remodelled. Walls moved. New kitchen, new bathrooms. The lot. The renovations have given Chris something to really get stuck into. But I didnt want to do it. I never liked change at the best of times. And now I like it even less. Its most discombobulating and thats a word that sums up Alzheimers beautifully. If you want to know what its like: have you ever parked in a car park youve never been to, and then come back hours later and really had no idea where your car is? That sudden, blank feeling of not knowing something no matter how hard you try? The memory is just not there. Thats what its like for me. On a regular basis. I spoke to my neurologist, Professor Peter Garrard, at St Georges Hospital, Tooting, about it all. He said Alzheimers means my ability to make and store new memories is weaker. That means remembering day-to-day events that help us all get around knowing where you left an object, or how to get from A to B is more difficult. He suggests keeping a regular timetable and sticking to a routine, and not putting myself in unfamiliar situations. As Ive reported previously, I got lost while driving myself to the dentist last year. It was a journey Id done dozens of times, but not regularly enough, according to Prof Garrard, for it to stick in my memory. The A Word has claimed that small piece of information, along with many others. So I stick to places I know well. I walk my dog Benny or pop down to the shops. And Im sure Ill get used to the new house. In other news, Im obsessed with Bohemian Rhapsody, the new Queen biopic. Seriously. Chris and I went to see it at the cinema with our friends Liz and Nick. And then when I got home, I downloaded it and watched it again. And again. I think Ive now watched it ten times. I dont really remember a lot of it, so its just as enjoyable every time. I was talking to a friend about the film, and my days as a showbiz reporter days came flooding back: going round to Kenny Everetts house in Kensington to do an interview In my head, I sort of know what happens. But if you asked me to tell you the plot, I wouldnt be able to. Even stranger, I was talking to a friend about the film, and my days as a showbiz reporter days came flooding back: going round to Kenny Everetts house in London to do an interview. Kennys wife yes, he was married back then Lee was there. She was a psychic of some kind and did a reading for me, as I sat on their living room floor. Remarkably, she knew my dad was about to go on holiday. And of course, Kenny appeared as a character in the Queen film, because he was the first radio DJ to play their single Bohemian Rhapsody. I know it happened because I checked with Chris, who worked with me as a photographer back in the 1970s. Prof Garrard says the reason I like seeing the same film over and over comes back down to routines: it is comforting for those of us with the A Word, when things are familiar. Personally, I think I just love the music. So who knows. I suppose Im a bit like Benny, who will endlessly play with a toy that he loves. Then hell drop it somewhere, and come up to me whining he cant remember where he put it. Off we go to find it, and then he goes back to playing with it again. Well, you know what they say about dogs and their owners Mariella Frostrup doesnt think shes middle-aged. Shes 56. I mean, what is that for a woman these days? she asks, and I think shes going to tell me that the 50s are the new 40s. Or 30s, even. It makes me ancient. A crone. A hag. She says this with the confidence of someone who knows shes none of these things. In her sixth decade, Frostrup is emblematic of empowered, experienced midlife, with a polymaths CV, two children in the lower end of their teens and enough fuel in her tank to have recently developed a penchant for grime music. Stormzy, Bugzy Malone, Kano, the rappers, they are the great storytellers today, says Britains best-known bookworm, not sounding at all prehistoric. Plus, she might be about to do something very youthful indeed. Im thinking about going to university. What? Shes surely not going to abandon her long-running Radio 4 books show, her new BBC books podcast, the agony aunt column, the television presenting and snap shut her impressive contacts book (the arts, politics, rock n roll, Hollywood and activism, its all in there) in favour of lecture theatres and essay crises? Mariella Frostrup with George Clooney at the Baftas, 2006. In her 20s and 30s Frostrup was the quintessential party girl No, Id still be working, just not with the same relentlessness, she clarifies. Id probably want to read politics and sociology, not English literature, as I think Id be a difficult student. I definitely dont want to get to 70 having done the same thing over and over, and I dont want to be hawking my goods at 65 to an uninterested TV network, going, OK, OK, I will be the grey one, because they only allow one token woman on television at a time. Society sort of tolerates a mad old bint, but a normal woman trying to achieve something in later years? Think about it, youve got Mary Beard, Joanna Lumley and Germaine Greer, and after that I dont need any more fingers to count them on, do I? If she does enrol it would make sense. In the 30 years shes been famous, Frostrup has shown a knack, if not for reinvention, then at least for staying one step ahead. In her 20s and 30s she was the quintessential party girl whose lost weekend drinking tequila with George Clooney in Cannes set the bar very high for all who followed in her footsteps. Next, in a last gasp before she reached 40, she met her husband, the human-rights lawyer Jason McCue, on a charity trek in Nepal and settled down, it seemed, overnight. I fell for him because he was really confident in himself and I admired what he did. I thought he was sexy in a Bridget Jones/Mark Darcy/human-rights lawyer kind of way. I am seven years older than he is, which feels like a lot but its OK since he has always looked like my grandfather, she laughs. Then she became a standard-bearer for later-life nesting, having a baby at 41 and again at 43, and moving out of London to Somerset to embrace wholesome country living. Finally, last year she defied the omerta that surrounds the menopause by going on TV and telling three million viewers about her own and why shell be on hormone-replacement therapy until she dies. The programme was a broadcasting triumph, and she now sees women pushing past A-listers at parties to share their experiences with her. It is great to feel I have shifted the paradigm a tiny bit, she says. The menopause is still such a taboo, combining the things we fear most: ageing, irrelevance. As a woman you are treated differently when you get to your 50s, theres no denying it. Today she takes testosterone and melatonin to help with the sleeplessness and swipes an oestrogen gel into her armpit when I remember. (Which is 100 per cent not what it says to do on the box.) Partly as a result of that and one suspects, her Norwegian heritage she looks fabulous, with the merest tracery of tiny lines around her eyes and the same shaggy, blonde bob shes always had. And we havent even mentioned her best-known feature: the Frostrup voice. Today shes wearing a prim tea dress, pearls and sensible shoes, but that voice sounds like it should be ordering a cocktail and flirting magnificently in a louche late-night bar somewhere. Quite possibly with a Hollywood hottie like Bradley Cooper though as she is about to tell me, hes out of luck. Id watched A Star Is Born and had a bit of a crush on him, but then I sat next to him at the Baftas and thought, hmm, his lips are a little thin, his hair is too artful. His girlfriend [Irina Shyak] was also on the table. Now she was the real eye candy. There are some in the industry who think that voice, along with her ability to unpick people emotionally, would have made her an astute choice for Desert Island Discs when host Kirsty Young stepped down last September. Young is suffering from the chronic illness fibromyalgia and cannot say when she will return to the airwaves. For the record, Frostrup, who is a Radio 4 fanatic, wasnt offered it. The honour went to Lauren Laverne instead. I think it was all decided even before news of Kirsty stepping down was made public, she says diplomatically. And I would have been reluctant. Its great to own a programme like that and make it yours but trying to stand in for someone who is brilliant, and shine? Thats a poisoned chalice. Anyway, books, not music, are her thing. She has just published one of her own, an anthology of female travellers, but shes better known for exploring other peoples, as the host of Radio 4s influential Open Book. She is also currently consumed with enthusiasm for her new podcast, Books To Live By, where guests discuss the books that have resonated in their lives. So far shes interviewed ballet dancer Carlos Acosta (his books were all about being a lost boy, lonely), the actor Dominic West (who reads Thomas Hardy, W H Auden and enjoys discussing death and decay, mortality, the withering of life) and screen superstar Cate Blanchett (who recommended Rachel Cusks Aftermath and Lucia Berlins A Manual For Cleaning Women). She answered the door wearing a boiler suit and no make-up, and had a list of books about being a woman struggling to achieve her ambitions and yet still being the parent or the wife they want to be. Juggling work and parenting is not something you easily associate with the serene-seeming Blanchett, nor death with the castle-dwelling father-of-five West, whose career is soaring. Thats the point. Books are a window down into someones soul. She struggles to name her own favourites because she simply has so many. If pressed Id choose Virginia Woolfs To The Lighthouse because its so brilliantly illuminating on the frustrations still inherent in being a woman, and Cloudstreet by Australian novelist Tim Winton because its about human relationships and love in its full dysfunctional glory. As windows go, hers are wide open. Born in Oslo, Frostrup grew up in Ireland, where her early years were damaged by her dysfunctional family. Her parents divorced when she was eight and her mothers new partner brought violence into the household. Her father drank himself to death when she was 15 she nursed him to the end. She left school at 16 with no qualifications and sailed alone from Ireland to start afresh in London, her possessions stuffed into four plastic bags. Given this, its easy to believe her when she says fear, total fear of recreating that makes her invest in her marriage and her mothering, and compels her to wring the best from ordinary life. Hers is not perfect. She squabbles with McCue and has to chase children Molly, 14, and Dan, 13 via Snapchat for answers to boring domestic questions. Shes an inveterate shouter at the radio too. But she is far too wise to let the perfect be the enemy of the good. Marriages really do undulate, like geography. There are times when your partner is the last person in the world you want to be in a room with and times when they are the only person in the world you want to be in a room with. Todays world is very intolerant. It asks what is the point of a relationship unless you want to have sex every two minutes and be together 24 hours a day. Theres a lot worth sacrificing for stability. I almost think that when people have children, theres a case for signing some kind of contract to say you are going to stay together for the next 20 years. Shes exaggerating for emphasis but her point is clearly made. There is no question that children are irrevocably damaged by the separation and divorce of their parents. Her turbulent early life also gives her a healthy contempt for people who make themselves the victim of their own drama. I have got less tolerant as the years have gone by and I recognise people lying to themselves, playing the victim in real life or in my postbag. Definitely among my friends I am not considered the kind, tolerant one. Im good in a crisis but not the person who just lets you talk and soaks up the agony. Shes also brave enough to diverge from some of the tropes of modern womanhood. The bourbon and porn ladette culture of the Nineties didnt emancipate women, it set them back, all that misogynistic behaviour. If we didnt see it as ironic we were humourless. Feminism now? We need to move forward without being fuelled by a sense of self-righteous fury. Theres too much scalp-seeking hysteria created by the power of social media. Next, youre about to see Frostrup hosting BBC1s Celebrity Painting Challenge, in which six famous faces paint and draw, with the results auctioned off for charity. When she talks about it she tells me an off-the-cuff story not about celebrity but about kinship. This years contestants include model Amber le Bon, daughter of Duran Duran frontman Simon and his supermodel wife Yasmin. What stuck with me was the extraordinary generosity of the le Bons, she says, who turned up en masse for the charity auction and bid for all the artists work, not just their daughters. They were such an obviously impressive, united family despite Yasmin and Simon getting into a bidding war for Ambers pieces. We were all in love with them. Now try your own painting challenge... Event picks five super spring shows 1 Van Gogh in Britain Tate Britain In 1873, Vincent van Gogh moved to London, aged just 20. A new exhibition looks at the three subsequent years he spent living in the UK and how, fired by the novels of Dickens and paintings of Constable, those years influenced the artist he would become. Mar 27-Aug 11, tate.org.uk In 1873, Vincent van Gogh moved to London, aged just 20. A new exhibition looks at the three subsequent years he spent living in the UK 2 Manga British Museum This spring, the British Museum hosts the largest-ever exhibition of Manga outside Japan, tracing its roots back to the 12th century. Manga can be literally translated as pictures run riot and consists of comic books and graphic novels. Nowadays, it has also become a billion-dollar global industry, influencing the worlds of film and gaming. May 23-Aug 26, britishmuseum.org This spring, the British Museum hosts the largest-ever exhibition of Manga outside Japan 3 Lee Krasner Barbican Krasners career has always been overshadowed by that of her famous husband, Jackson Pollock, one of the greatest painters of the 20th century. An upcoming show at the Barbican is her first retrospective in Europe for more than 50 years. Remarkable given that she, like Pollock, was one of the driving forces of the Abstract Expressionist movement. May 30-Sept 1, barbican.org.uk Lee Krasners career has always been overshadowed by that of her famous husband, Jackson Pollock, one of the greatest painters of the 20th century 4 Videogames V&A Dundee Opened last year in a spectacular building on the banks of the River Tay, V&A Dundee the first outstation of Londons Victoria and Albert Museum is worth a visit in its own right. It also offers a second venue for V&A exhibitions, such as that on the history of videogames, which recently closed in London. Apr 20-Sept 8, vam.ac.uk/dundee Opened last year in a spectacular building on the banks of the River Tay, V&A Dundee is worth a visit in its own right 5 Leonardo da Vinci: a life in drawing This year marks the 500th anniversary of Leonardo da Vincis death and to celebrate, 144 of his drawings are being shown simultaneously at 12 venues across the UK. Theyre from The Royal Collection which boasts probably the finest group of Da Vincis drawings in the world and are usually kept, away from public view, at Windsor Castle. Venues nationwide, till May 6, rct.uk This year marks the 500th anniversary of Leonardo da Vincis death and to celebrate, 144 of his drawings are being shown simultaneously at 12 venues across the UK Advertisement Frostrup hasnt got an artistic bone in her body and confines herself to bringing pieces home from her travels with Jason. Shes doing an art programme, she says, because weve got a terrible habit in this country of elevating the arts to unreachable heights for most of the population. I dont want to see them dealt with in a rarefied manner, but brazenly put out there in primetime. Brazenly putting the unexpected out there is also why she wants a grime artist to talk about his favourite books for her podcast (theyre Dickensian, writing about what life is like for urchins) and why shes lobbying the BBC to make a follow-up to her menopause documentary. The last one took me five years. I imagine thisll take another five, she says. Its ironic, isnt it? I have had enough success in my career to have a degree of influence. Im in a stronger position than when I was younger, but of course, Im also not in a stronger place because Im middle-aged and a woman and theres an overarching narrative about the end of our usefulness, which happens around now. So if she does go to university, I think we can all guess the subject of her dissertation. Celebrity Painting Challenge begins on BBC1 in April. Wild Women by Mariella Frostrup is out now (Anima, 25) The first episode of Books To Live ByWith Mariella Frostrup is now available here. Betrayal Harold Pinter Theatre, London Until June 1, 1hr 30mins Rating: The great Albert Finney was once brilliantly described as being like a shiny English apple. Id say the film star Tom Hiddleston is more of a spring onion thin, pale and one of a bunch. Many find it easy to confuse him with Eddie Redmayne and Benedict Cumberbatch. The star of The Night Manager and the Thor films is, though, a really powerful presence in this run of Harold Pinters 1978 play. Its a fiendishly clever adultery drama based on the married authors seven-year affair in the Sixties with the married broadcaster Joan Bakewell. In her memoir she recalls reading the script numb with horror. The love triangle here features the radiant Zawe Ashton as Emma, her husband Robert (Tom Hiddleston) and her lover Jerry (Charlie Cox), a literary agent and Roberts best man The play is in itself a caddish betrayal of their infidelity. The love triangle here features the radiant Zawe Ashton as Emma, her publisher husband Robert (Hiddleston) and her lover Jerry (Charlie Cox), a literary agent and Roberts best man. But the plays famous trick is to show the affair in reverse, starting with the former lovers meet-up in a pub and ending when it started seven years earlier with Jerrys drunken pass at Emma at a party. Jamie Lloyds production is precise and poetic but with no set to speak of and zero sense of location. Actors hang about unemployed when they're meant to exit Jamie Lloyds production is precise and poetic but with no set to speak of and zero sense of location. The pub, the restaurant, the flat where the lovers meet, the Venice hotel room where the affair is exposed all takes place on a bare stage with a revolve. Actors hang about unemployed when they're meant to exit. Nice people? Hardly. The oblivious Emma is also having an affair with an (unseen) novelist, thus betraying both Robert and Jerry. But the two male friends mutual betrayal is also key. Their regular manly squash fixture game, shower, pint is verboten territory for women. Robert even admits to abusing Emma bashing her up a bit revealing a nasty, dated streak of misogyny thats a Pinter trademark. While this all looks modishly stylised, what comes across is a sorrowful and often funny account of furtive love and its corrosive fallout. Hiddleston is visibly haunted by a constant nag of pain. But the evening really belongs to Emma: it is the tall, terrific Zawe Ashton as this cool enchantress who steals the show. Richard III Bristol Old Vic Until Apr 13, touring to May 25, 2hrs 40mins Rating: Irritatingly, this doesnt start with Now is the winter of our discontent. Instead we see a Netflix-style recap of the bloody Wars of the Roses saga. Tom Mothersdale has no hump but hes definitely twisted, scuttling about downstage. The modish production by John Haidar certainly gets on with it. Bodily fluids and violence are unstinted. The ghosts of the murdered are assembled upstage by Henry (John Sackville) to await Richards comeuppance at Bosworth. Tom Mothersdale has no hump but hes definitely twisted, scuttling about downstage. The production by John Haidar certainly gets on with it. Bodily fluids and violence are unstinted But the cuts to the text are too brutal. Queen Margaret (Henrys widow) is binned and Lord Hastings is now Lady Hastings (Heledd Gwynn). Yet it works. Mothersdale is fun as the gnarly, psychotic King, and youngsters will surely warm to the sick glamour of this serial assassin. headlong.co.uk Waitress Adelphi Theatre, London Until Oct 19, 2hrs 30mins Rating: As American as, well, apple pie, this Broadway musical is adapted from the 2007 film about a small-town waitress stuck in an abusive marriage who pours her dreams into the pies she makes. Sara Bareilles and Jessie Nelsons musical arrives in the West End with its cherry still on top, in the form of Katharine McPhee as the lead Jenna, with a fantastic, full-bodied voice. This Broadway musical is adapted from the film about small-town waitress Jenna (Katharine McPhee, left) stuck in an abusive marriage who pours her dreams into the pies she makes Bareilles music is a treat, with peppy, confident melodies, lovely harmonising between the waitresses and lyrics that are funny and tart. Jenna gets pregnant, reluctantly keeps the baby, and then falls for her obstetrician. When she hears of a pie-making contest with $20,000 prize money, it looks like her way out. Jenna gets pregnant and then falls for her obstetrician (David Hunter, above with McPhee). When she hears of a pie-making contest with $20,000 prize money, it looks like her way out There are goofy subplots with fellow waitresses Becky and Dawn, the former getting it on with their grumpy chef while the latter finds love with a civil war re-enactment enthusiast. Director Diane Paulus does well to give all three women a sense of joyful sexual empowerment, but they are rarely more than caricatures. Marisha Wallaces Becky is written as a sassy black-woman stereotype, while Dawn (Laura Baldwin) becomes pretty when she takes off her glasses. There are goofy subplots with fellow waitresses Becky and Dawn (Laura Baldwin), the latter finding love with a civil war re-enactment enthusiast (Jack McBrayer, above with Baldwin) There is something jarring, too, about mixing the abuse plotline with such zany comedy. Waitress has bags of charm and polish but also a little too much sugar. Holly Williams Richard II Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, London Until Apr 21, 2hrs 30 mins Rating: This is the first Shakespeare play performed by a company of women of colour on a major stage in Britain. Directors Adjoa Andoh and Lynette Linton dont make Richard II explicitly about gender or race, but in a play examining England, as a country, questioning who leads it and how, the casting is an inclusive offering. The music and design, mixing Middle Eastern, African and Asian influences, further reflects the multi-cultural cast (and the UK today). The title role is taken by Adjoa Andoh and shes terrific. Her Richard may be selfish and hot-headed, but hes also commanding and charismatic The title role is also taken by Andoh and shes terrific. Her Richard may be selfish and hot-headed, but hes also commanding and charismatic. Andoh has a swagger and spitting scornfulness that endures. The text occasionally leaps into the present, Brexit never far from the mind: the suggestion that England hath made a shameful conquest of itself even prompts (slightly weary) laughter. But the production can also flatten out, with rather a lot of aborted action and political jawing: not what anyone wants right now. Holly Williams Small energy supplier Outfox the Market, mired in serious service issues, is involved in a furious war of words with a band of former customers who have taken to social media to criticise the company. The exchanges have resulted in the Leicester-based company writing to some members of Facebook discussion group 'Outfox the Market Escapees' warning them of imminent legal proceedings against them. In the letter, it accuses the recipients of 'hijacking' customer review websites and involvement in 'social media hate groups'. Some have been informed that the company is seeking damages for 'injury of feelings' of 10,000. Outfox the Market is involved in a furious war of words with a band of former customers In turn, those who have received the letter, issued by Bastian plc the owner of the Outfox the Market brand and who have spoken to The Mail on Sunday say the company is 'crying fire' to disguise its woeful customer service. Any anger, they say expressed in emails or web chat conversation has been borne out of frustration. Outfox the Market blazed a trail when it entered the energy supply market in September 2017 with cut-price deals and eye-catching marketing, attracting thousands of customers. But in the past few months, the love affair has turned sour as a result of customer service problems. These have been prompted by direct debit payments being ratcheted up, credit balances not being refunded promptly and problems not being resolved. Protest groups have been formed on Facebook while a swathe of negative reviews have been posted on website Trustpilot. Independent analysis of customer service satisfaction levels across the energy supply market confirms Outfox the Market's fall from grace. In the last week, both Citizens Advice and uSwitch have ranked the company bottom for customer service. Comparison website uSwitch ranked it 16th out of 16 while Citizens Advice gave it a score of 1.3 out of five with Outfox being singled out for 'direct debits increasing without explanation and customers unable to contact them to discuss'. Citizens Advice used publication of its rankings to call for regulator Ofgem to subject suppliers to 'tougher ongoing monitoring, backed up by swift compliance and enforcement action'. Separately, website energyhelp-line has confirmed to The Mail on Sunday that Outfox is one of three energy suppliers that are currently in receipt of its lowest awarded 'star' rating one out of five. This is based on a combination of complaint numbers, the call centre's opening hours and customer satisfaction levels. Complaints handler Resolver has also told The Mail on Sunday that Outfox is currently in its top five most complained about energy businesses. Martyn James, head of media and marketing, says: 'What has been most interesting in the last few months has been the switch from people complaining about higher direct debits to the time taken to refund any outstanding credit on their account. That is never a good sign.' One former Outfox customer who has received Bastian's 'letter before action' says he was left 'feeling suicidal' after seeing his direct debits jump from 50 per month to 450 before Christmas. A former lorry driver, he is disabled and survives financially on benefits. 'Where can I get 10,000 from?' he told The Mail on Sunday last week. 'I feel humiliated by all this.' Both Citizens Advice and uSwitch have ranked the energy company bottom for customer service Another recipient who has received a letter from Bastian urging them to 'remove' themselves from the Facebook group Outfox the Market Escapees so as to 'avoid being involved in all relevant litigation' said: 'Outfox the Market Escapees is not a hate group. 'It's more accurate to call them disgruntled customers former and current speaking about their experiences. Outfox should spend more time rectifying account issues and less time arguing with reviewers on sites such as Trustpilot.' On Friday, Outfox said the company was working hard to restore customer service levels to the 'high standards it set for the vast majority of 2018'. It also said the 'letter before action' it had sent was not as a result of customers criticising poor service. It added: 'We will not stand by while staff are harassed on the basis of race, gender or occupation. Outfox staff should not have to suffer in this way.' Some of the Facebook posts seen by The Mail on Sunday and provided by Outfox are indeed racist but represent a tiny minority of the overall complaints. Much blame is going to be placed at the door of vulture investor Coltrane and hedge fund Farringdon for pushing Interserve into administration. Certainly, minority and private investors who are being wiped out will feel embittered that secretive and unaccountable shareholders sealed the contractors fate. Interserve is the author of its own demise. Instead of focusing on careful management of public outsourcing and construction projects, it developed grandiose ambitions and headed off in all directions. Interserve is the author of its own demise, says Alex Brummer Fatally, among other things, it invested in an energy-from-waste business which gobbled up hundreds of millions of pounds. In 2017 the group parted company with chief executive Adrian Ringrose, who took home more than 6million in his last five years. This period largely was overseen by then chairman Lord Blackwell, who stepped down in 2016. It might have been thought that after all of this turmoil new chief executive Debbie White would have had the good sense to show some prudence. Instead, she collected 525,900 for four months work in 2017, including a 125 per cent bonus. Audit firms EY and Deloitte, brought in at different times to advise, failed to stem the rot. For a long time under the Blair-Brown governments, outsourcing looked like a licence to print money. But when the Tory-led coalition clamped down on spending after the 2008/09 financial crisis, profit margins on new contracts were squeezed. In a repeat of the Carillion experience, Interserve had little choice but to take on ever more contracts to support cash flow. If one didnt know better, one might unkindly suggest this amounted to no more than a Ponzi scheme. With existing shareholders locked out as a result of Fridays extraordinary general meeting, the bankers HSBC and RBS, and hedge fund Angelo Gordon, now seize control. Interserve has informed the 68,000 employees (45,000 in the UK) that it will be business as usual. But that assumes the bankers and hedge funds wont seek to cut costs, offload uneconomic contracts and carve the enterprise up as soon as possible. Banks and hedge funds are not by nature long-term investors. For the country to lose one outsourcer might have been an accident, but losing two is careless. The least the Government should do is set up an independent inquiry into an imploding sector. Pain from the collapse of an outsourcer is shared by shareholders and taxpayers alike. Dastardly diesel When the US sinks its teeth into overseas companies the pain never ends, as BP could testify. In taking on Volkswagen, the US has found an easy target. So far, the diesel scandal has cost the car maker an estimated $25billion (19.2billion) in fines and compensation. Now the Securities & Exchange Commission is charging VW and former chief executive Martin Winterkorn with a massive fraud over the issue of bonds in 2014/15 valued at $13billion. Now the Securities & Exchange Commission is charging VW and former chief executive Martin Winterkorn with a massive fraud over the issue of bonds in 2014/15 It is alleged that VW knew that more than half a million cars on American roads exceeded emission limits when it issued the bonds, but covered it up. Reputational damage to Volkswagen wont be helped by careless language from current chief executive Herbert Diess. He evoked the car makers Nazi history by using a unfortunate German phrase, very similar to that posted over the iron gates to Auschwitz. VW wants to become a pioneer in electric cars and is promising 70 electric models by 2028. But there are still questions as to how green electric cars will prove. Their batteries rely on precious metals and, if sold in sufficient numbers, they could put pressure on power grids burning fossil fuels. In the Brexit debate, politicians have treated whingeing motor manufacturers poisoning the air with diesel as industrial royalty. There has been no serious attempt to challenge them over pollution. Feeble. Cash cows Pity the poor bosses at Britains most global bank, HSBC. As recently as 2016 these devoted bankers could look forward to a retirement cushioned by a payment of 50 per cent of base salary in lieu of pension contributions. This was slashed to a mere 30 per cent after investors objected. Governance is being tightened again and the pensions allowance slashed to 10 per cent. No such hardship for Antonio Horta- Osorio at Lloyds. His cash in lieu of pension is still too high at 33 per cent after a haircut from 46 per cent. That wont please dissenting investors. A little, far too late. That is the only way to describe the decision by three of the countrys biggest banks to join forces and launch a number of shared mini-branches for business customers. The initiative, that has already kicked off with a branch opening in Birmingham (Perry Barr), is a collaboration between Barclays, Lloyds Banking Group and Royal Bank of Scotland a triumvirate which between them have been responsible for a majority of the 1,000-odd bank branches ruthlessly culled since the beginning of last year. Shared branches are also earmarked for Bristol, Crosby (Merseyside), Leicester, London and Manchester. The outlets, jointly owned, will be automated bar for the odd human overseer (hurrah) and allow business customers to come in and bank cash and cheques. Barclays, Lloyds Banking Group and RBS have launched a number of shared mini-branches for business customers They will also be open for longer than traditional branches, allowing businesses to visit without interrupting their own working days. If successful, the shared branches may be extended to rural areas although I wouldnt put any money on that happening in the same way as I wouldnt put any money into a Lloyds Easy Saver account, currently paying an embarrassing 0.2 per cent interest. While any initiative to make banking life easier for small businesses should, of course, be welcomed, this project is misguided. For a start, it is not cities that are crying out for shared branches. It is towns and rural communities that have been shorn of all their bank branches, leaving cash-based businesses to travel miles to bank their takings (and personal customers too). That is where this initiative should have started. Indeed, I would guess that if these outlets take off, they could well trigger the closure of many conventional city bank branches. Thats how bank executives work cost cutting is never far from the front of their minds (just behind thoughts of the bonuses they will earn from wielding the axe). Secondly, the idea is sadly more than 20 years too late. Shared bank branches rather than shared business branches were first mooted by the now defunct Campaign for Community Banking Services in 1996. Yet, despite the proposal garnering widespread support from business associations, charities, newspapers (none more vocal than The Mail on Sunday) and many politicians, the idea was summarily squashed by the banks like a tomato under the wheels of an HGV. Instead, they culled branches as if they were badgers, leaving high street devastation in their wake and in the process hitting the most vulnerable (the elderly) and small businesses. A calamitous chain of events acknowledged last week by Charles Randell, chairman of regulator the Financial Conduct Authority. Derek French, a former NatWest bank manager, was the main driver behind the CCBSs splendid but doomed shared branch initiative. Last week, I managed to track him down and ask him for his thoughts on these new mini-business bank branches. Singularly unimpressed sums up his thoughts. Given that thousands of bank branches have closed and hundreds of communities have been rendered bankless over the past 20 years, he said, I fear this too little too late experiment is like shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted. It will benefit few and satisfy hardly anyone. A terrible state of affairs that shames Barclays, Lloyds and Royal Bank of Scotland. SSE has been asked to take on the 17,000 customers of collapsed Brilliant Energy How ironic that Big Six energy provider SSE has been asked to take on the 17,000 customers of (not so) Brilliant Energy, the latest in a string of small supplier failures. It is a reflection of regulatory failure by Ofgem which in its pursuit of greater competition has allowed any Tom, Dick, Harry or Fox (see page 103) to enter the market and challenge the fat boys. As sure as night follows days, more minnows will fall by the wayside and other energy giants will mop up the mess. Ofgem needs to get its act together. Yes, more competition, but from challengers fit for purpose. There are hundreds of stocks and shares Isas to choose from and in the run-up to the end of the tax year on April 5 advertising campaigns promising investment excellence jump off the pages. It can be tricky to sift through the noise and find the best Isa to suit you. As an experienced investor, I have tested accounts with nearly 30 providers funded with my own money to research the market. Here's my guide through the minefield to the best Isa options to suit a variety of needs and levels of experience. Holly Mackay has tested accounts with nearly 30 providers to research the market Investor type: 'I'm not that interested' The world of investment management has been slowly waking up to the fact that not everyone finds the nuances of oil price movements or emerging market debt as fascinating as they do. It is now easier than ever to choose a stocks and shares Isa, delegating the business of investment selection and ongoing monitoring to an expert. This hands-off approach can often be a great option as customers are more likely to be delivered a well-diversified range of investments which makes it a less risky option than an enthusiast picking a handful of shares and being exposed to the fate of just a few companies. So-called robo advisers such as Nutmeg and Wealthify will ask potential customers a few questions to establish what mix of investments will best suit and then serve up a ready-made portfolio, so no prior expertise is required. Moneybox is a simple, painless investment app which rounds up your change from any digital expenditure and sweeps the total over to your Isa on a weekly basis. This is perhaps the most enjoyable investment app I have ever seen. It has cut back on the waffle and jargon and it's amazing how loose change can add up. A number of high street banks have jumped on board this Isa simplification bandwagon. Santander has designed a user-friendly risk profile questionnaire for its Digital Investment Adviser which will match you to a suitable portfolio. It is a more interesting Isa journey than you might expect from a traditional bank. It is not necessarily my top Isa pick, but it is well worth a look if you bank with them, like the peace of mind that big brands provide and you want to benefit from seeing your Isa details alongside your online banking. Investor type: Save money and the planet For years there has been a lot of intellectual snobbery about ethical investing. Hobbyist investors would typically curl a lip and see this as the domain of lefty, green types who are prepared to sacrifice returns for morals. But things are changing. Indeed, a recent survey of European institutional investors found that more than 50 per cent expect half of all their assets to be managed according to environmental, social or governance criteria within five years. Not so niche any more. If we look at the impact on performance, a leading global index with a socially responsible slant the MSCI SRI All Countries World Index outperformed the more traditional global index by nearly 3 per cent last year. There is growing evidence that this approach to investing stands up in its own right. If you prefer a simple all-in-one option, many online robo advisers now offer an ethical Isa portfolio. Nutmeg has led the charge with a complex screening approach behind the scenes. For those preferring to choose one or two ethical funds as part of a bigger portfolio, AJ Bell Youinvest is a good option offering choice and an ethical filter on its list of preferred funds. Royal London Sustainable World Trust is its top-selling ethical fund. If you prefer bigger brands, Barclays Smart Investor offers investors the ability to open an Isa and select the Multi-Impact Growth fund. This aims to invest in the best third-party positive impact investment brands. Legal & General has a wide range of ethical choices in its Future World range, addressing issues such as climate change and gender diversity, for example. The online tools for investors in this area remain remain pretty basic but the socially responsible investment range is interesting. Investor type: The Share trader Halifax Share Dealing is the cheapest option for most traders. Dont expect any bells or whistles and you should be confident to navigate your own path. But with a 12.50 annual Isa administration fee and a dealing fee of 12.50, costs are low, especially if you dont trade often or hold many investments. Interactive Investor is one of the only other big names to offer a fixed fee in pounds and pence rather than as a percentage of funds. This will benefit those who have built up Isa investments of 60,000 or more over the years in a blend of shares and funds. There is still work to be done to offer the same level of service as AJ Bell Youinvest and Hargreaves Lansdown, but this is now an option for confident investors who want choice, interesting content, low fees and who object in principle to the idea of having fees levied as a percentage of their assets. Finally, AJ Bell Youinvest and Hargreaves Lansdown are strong all-rounders which offer a good, decently priced option for share traders. Service and ease of use is arguably better at Hargreaves Lansdown, but its hard to look past AJ Bell Youinvest as a strong option to suit differing levels of confidence and experience. Investor type: One for the kids Junior Isas are a tax-free savings account for children which anyone can pay into. There is an annual limit of 4,260 per child per year. Wealthify has recently launched a Junior Isa that is probably the most novice-friendly option available. The fund selection and ongoing management are done for you and the website and mobile application are clear and simple to use. For those wanting a little more choice, Fidelity is a big global brand that offers reasonable value and helpful fund shortlists to assist navigation and choice. Minimum fees make it relatively pricey for accounts under 7,500. Above that and the ongoing annual fee falls to 0.68 per cent. Hargreaves Lansdown is the UKs largest online investment service. It can be expensive, but its charge for smaller Junior Isas offers good value. There are investment options to suit different levels of confidence and interest. Service is the best around. Investor type: Save me from myself' One of the most common mistakes I see from Isa investors is that they have some luck with a particular share or fund, get more interested, trade more and try to time the market. But timing the market is impossible. Even if you predict events correctly, you cannot assume you will accurately predict how markets will react. One of the most successful investors ever, George Soros, constantly reminds us that good investing should be boring. The boring solution in the Isa world is Vanguard, a US-based investment firm. It offers the LifeStrategy range, funds providing access to a broad global mix of investments. Opening a Vanguard Isa and using a fund from this range will cost 0.48 per cent a year. Vanguard will monitor, anticipate, tweak and manage the global range of investments for you. If this removes investment fun, dont forget you can have more than one Isa. The rules just say you cant pay into more than one investment Isa in any one tax year. If your enthusiasm may be leading to poorer outcomes why not open a new low-cost, ready-made option next tax year (April 6 onwards) and see which approach does better. Medical cannabis was legalised in November in what was hailed as a landmark moment in theory, at least. In practice, strict guidelines and doctors lack of experience in prescribing cannabis treatments reported to have therapeutic effects such as pain relief and alleviating cancer-related symptoms mean few patients have so far benefited from the change in the law. Even so, interest in the burgeoning cannabis market is rising and 2019 is likely to be a watershed year when British retail investors can start buying so-called pot stocks. Marijuana: The industry is about to go mainstream Whether they will prove a profitable investment, or all go up in smoke, is another question. Individual shareholders have sparse choice when it comes to investing in the cannabis sector. FTSE 100-listed Associated British Foods subsidiary British Sugar grows cannabis plants in Norfolk for drug maker GW Pharmaceuticals, which is based in Cambridge. There are three cannabis-focused investment funds on challenger stock exchange Nex Sativa Investments, High Growth Capital and Ananda Developments. But the industry is about to go mainstream after a number of companies making medicinal cannabis products recently said they are planning to join the London Stock Exchange. Jacana, which grows medical-use cannabis in Jamaica, said in February it is considering a stock market float on AIM later this year. European Cannabis Holdings, which helped to secure the arrival of the first legal shipment of marijuana in Britain earlier this year, and Emmac Life Sciences, which will produce and supply medicinal cannabis, are also planning listings. It is highly unlikely that the drug will be legalised for recreational use in the UK any time soon Spinnaker Opportunities, a cash shell company on the main market, last month said it was planning a reverse takeover of medicinal cannabis oils and vapour producer Kanabo. If it completes as expected by the summer, it could be the first of its kind on the main market. Nick Davis, chief executive of law firm Memery Crystal, which is advising a number of cannabis companies on London floats and fundraisings, said he knows of another four companies looking to list on the London Stock Exchange this year. One is eyeing the main market while the other three are targeting AIM. Davis said: I think this will be the year that there are a significant number of listings though its predicated on no change to regulation here. Id be surprised if there werent a dozen companies across AIM and the main market by the year-end. Tristan Gervais, the London-based head of European medical cannabis investment banking for Canaccord Genuity, said: There has been significant interest from the medical cannabis sector in pursuing stock market listings in Europe. A lot of companies from all over the world are looking to raise capital in London and there is huge appetite from a wide range of investors to match this. The stock market in Canada, which in October became the second country after Uruguay to legalise recreational cannabis, is awash with cannabis stocks, with almost 20 companies listing on Toronto exchanges in 2017 and 2018 alone. Home Secretary Sajid Javids move to legalise the drug in certain circumstances late last year followed high-profile campaigns around two young boys, Alfie Dingley and Billy Caldwell, who galvanised public opinion when it was revealed that the cannabis oil used to treat their seizures had been denied to them. Cannabis oil can be used to treat seizures So as a result, does the London market face a similar prospect to Canadas? Memery Crystals Davis said it will be more measured in the UK. And experts warn that investors should proceed with caution as it could turn out to be another market fad. Russ Mould, investment director at broker AJ Bell, said: Things that go up like a rocket have a bad habit of coming down like a stick. Just ask those investors who were chasing crypto-currencies 18 months ago. It is highly unlikely that the drug will be legalised for recreational use in the UK any time soon, especially with studies finding that teenagers who smoke cannabis are more likely to develop mental health issues, and that it can affect users memory and concentration. Mould said: It is still a divisive investment. The deciding factor could rest on whether the positives surrounding medicinal uses of cannabis can start to outweigh the perceived negatives around recreational use and the impact that has on society. Sir Philip Green is in talks with regulators over the future of his retail empires 565million pension black hole. The High Street mogul is working on proposals that will allow him to carry out a brutal overhaul of his fashion group Arcadia that could lead to store closures and job losses, according to Sky News. Arcadia owns fashion chains Topshop, Topman, Dorothy Perkins, Burton, Evans, Miss Selfridge and Wallis. Philip Green with models Kate Moss, Cara Delevingne, Sienna Miller and Naomi Campbell Green, who turned 67 yesterday, is in talks with The Pensions Regulator over his plans for a so-called Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA). Arcadia has a 565million deficit in its pension fund a situation that is likely to raise eyebrows following the collapse of BHS a year after Green sold it to three-times bankrupt Dominic Chappell for 1. BHS went under with a 571million black hole in its pension fund. Green eventually agreed to plug the scheme with 363million as he faced calls to be stripped of his knighthood for his role in the demise of BHS. He has previously said he would pay 50million a year into the Arcadia fund over the next ten years, but the regulator is keeping a close eye on his latest plans. An Arcadia spokesman said it was exploring several options for the business. Two foreign hedge funds pushed Interserve into administration and left 16,500 small shareholders with nothing. In a humiliating blow to the Government contractors chief executive Debbie White and chairman Glyn Barker, investors rejected a rescue package that would have slashed their stake in the company to just 5 per cent and handed the other 95 per cent to Interserves lenders. The rebellion was led by New York-based hedge fund Coltrane Asset Management, the largest investor with a 27 per cent stake, and Dutch fund Farringdon, which held about 6 per cent. Interserve's rescue was rejected by 59 per cent to 41 per cent The Mail understands that if ballots from the two hedge funds were removed, 95 per cent of the vote was cast in favour of the companys plan, known as a debt-for-equity swap. But investors holding 44 per cent of Interserves shares did not vote at all meaning the rescue was rejected by 59 per cent to 41 per cent. It means shares held by an army of 16,500 small investors are wiped out. Last night Interserve said it had completed a pre-pack administration within hours of the vote that handed control to its lenders, including Barclays and Royal Bank of Scotland, and hedge funds such as Cerberus. It insists that operations will continue as normal on Monday morning. Mark Bentley, a director at retail investor group Sharesoc and a small shareholder in Interserve, said: What the hell did the major shareholders think they were doing by not supporting the resolution? Its a case of turkeys voting for Christmas those shareholders who havent voted, or voted down, have now lost everything. The deal a second bailout in a year would have cut Interserves crippling 631million debt pile and kept it publicly listed. Interserves market value has plunged from more than 1billion in 2014 to less than 20million But it was opposed by Coltrane. The US group put forward its own proposal, which would have left shareholders with a bigger stake and axed the companys entire board except for White. Interserve which employs 68,000 people worldwide, around 45,000 of which are in the UK questioned the viability of Coltranes plan. The contractor provides services such as operating army bases abroad, building roads and bridges and cleaning schools. It began running into financial difficulties in 2016, when a rapid expansion and a disastrous move into the energy-from-waste sector began to send its debt spiralling. It agreed a bailout with lenders in early 2018 in a bid to cut debt, but in December it announced it was in discussions for a second rescue package. Interserves market value has plunged from more than 1billion in 2014, when its share price was close to 500p per share, to less than 20million by the time its stock was delisted, when it was worth just 6.3p per share. One of Britains best-paid female bosses has handed her daughter more than 4million in shares. Avril Palmer-Baunack, who runs WeBuyAnyCar owner BCA Marketplace, gifted her daughter Iona two million shares in the FTSE 250 company last week. Palmer-Baunack, 54, faced a backlash last year after pocketing a share bonus worth 29million, making her one of the best-paid women in the country. Shares: Avril Palmer-Baunack and her daughter Iona, right Shareholder advisors Glass Lewis called the bonus exceptionally disproportionate, claiming the used car companys value may have been inflated by general stock market swings rather than by her management. Now stock market filings indicate she has handed some of those controversial shares to her daughter who graduated from the University of Birmingham in 2017 and is now studying for a PhD. Based on the current share price, the gift is worth nearly 4.2million. Born and bred in Edinburgh, Avril Palmer-Baunack lives near Milton Keynes with her husband Uwe, a German executive at Volkswagen. She also has a grown-up son. Palmer-Baunacks 29million bonus thrust her into the centre of a row involving her former employer Stobart. In leaked emails, Stobarts former boss Andrew Tinkler, referring to the bonus, suggested that he might have been better off if he had a pair of t*** like Avril. Eight major companies were last night forced to defend links between their senior directors and the Big Four accountancy giants that audit them. Aviva, Dixons Carphone and private equity giant Melrose are among the firms named and shamed in a new report alleging that board-level connections with auditors represent conflicts of interest. The report, from shareholder advisory group Pirc, comes at a time when accountancy firms and in particular the Big Four of KPMG, Deloitte, EY and PwC are coming under intense political pressure over their auditing work. Aviva, Dixons Carphone and Melrose are among the firms named and shamed in a new report In recent years, auditors have come under the spotlight over their connections with scandal-hit firms including Sir Philip Greens BHS, the collapsed outsourcing giant Carillion and the cake shop chain Patisserie Valerie. Last week, the Government announced that audit watchdog the Financial Reporting Council would be scrapped and replaced by a body with new powers to hold firms to account. In its annual corporate governance report, seen by The Mail on Sunday, Pirc identifies BHP Group a mining giant listed in London and Australia as a prime example of a company with unacceptable connections with its auditors. Lindsay Maxsted, the chair of the firms audit committee, was until 2007 the chief executive of the Australian division of KPMG the accountant that audits BHP. Pirc said this suggested an exceedingly close relation between the auditor and the company that is considered highly inappropriate. BHP, which declined to comment, is replacing KPMG with EY later this year. KPMG along with EY are the joint auditors of London-listed bank Investec which counts David Friedland, a former KPMG partner, as a non-executive director. Miner BHP is cited as a prime example of a company with unacceptable connections with its auditors Investec said Friedland retains independence of judgment given he was never Investec Limiteds designated auditor or relationship partner and was not involved with its Investec account. Deloitte is caught up in three alleged conflicts. Its position as auditor for Melrose, the corporate raider that bought engineer GKN in controversial circumstances last year, is considered by Pirc to be particularly inappropriate because Deloitte is also a remuneration consultant for the firm, advising on how much executives should be paid. Melrose said it had dropped Deloitte as a remuneration adviser in March last year and has replaced the firm with audit rival PwC. Dixons Carphones independence from Deloitte is also raised as an issue because the companys non-executive director Gerry Murphy was a partner at the firm until 2013. Dixons Carphone said it considers Murphy to be independent. Deloittes position as auditor of Great Portland Estates was also flagged up as an area for concern because the property firms ex-chairman Martin Scicluna was an employee at the auditor for 34 years. Dixons Carphones independence from Deloitte is also raised as an issue Scicluna left the firm which declined to comment in January to take up the same role at Sainsburys. Pirc also blasted the link between Fresnillo and its auditor EY. The miners audit committee chair Alberto Tiburcio was chief executive of Mancera SC, the Mexican firm of EY, until 2013. The firm declined to comment. PwCs links to Aviva which counts former PwC vice chair Glyn Barker as a senior independent director and gold miner Centamin were also highlighted. The latter case relates to non-executive director Alison Baker, who was a partner at PwC. However, she neither sits on the audit committee nor the remuneration committee and Centamin claims it has followed the letter of corporate governance rules. A PwC spokesman said the firm adheres to all regulatory rules. EY said it has in place stringent rules around conflict of interest. The other auditors declined to comment. Ministers drew up secret plans to nationalise parts of hospital cleaning and school dinner contractor Interserve before it was rescued from the brink of collapse last week, leaked documents reveal. An internal Whitehall strategy memo seen by The Mail on Sunday shows that the civil service last year put together a proposal to create a state-controlled company that would have been on standby in case struggling Interserve went into liquidation. In that eventuality the Government was prepared to move staff into the new company to ensure vital public services were not disrupted. Ministers drew up secret plans to nationalise parts of Interserve The plans are one of the few instances of the Government being prepared to bail out a failed company since RBS and Halifax Bank of Scotland were controversially rescued using taxpayer cash in the financial crisis more than a decade ago. The East Coast Main Line rail franchise was also brought back into public control when it failed last year. But the documents raise fresh questions about the structure of the Government contracts system. The entire outsourcing sector is creaking under severe financial strain a year after the collapse of contractor Carillion. By drafting a detailed emergency plan for one of its contractors, the Government has indicated that it has become so reliant on the services provided by firms such as Interserve, Kier and Capita that it now considers some of them too big and important to fail. A Cabinet Office spokesman said: We do not comment on leaked documents. However, we would point out that it is sensible for central government and other public sector buyers to prepare for all eventualities even ones we consider unlikely and make sure that public services are protected. Interserve had to resort to a pre-pack administration on Friday after its shareholders voted against a rescue plan formed by management. Ownership of the company was passed to its lenders and it is no longer listed on the stock market. As part of the deal, a consortium of banks, including HSBC and RBS, have written off close to 830million in gross debt. After the agreement with lenders on Friday night, Interserve said: It is business as usual for employees, customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders. Interserve, which employs 45,000 people in the UK and 68,000 worldwide, said the restructuring safeguarded workers and allowed operations to continue with minimal disruption. The Cabinet Office said the move brings the company the stability required for it to compete for future business and continue to deliver good value public services for the taxpayer. Analysis by The Mail on Sunday found that Interserve had secured 45 Government contracts worth an estimated 414million since October 2017, when it issued its second profit warning and entered into crisis talks with lenders. It derives two-thirds of its 2.9billion revenues from Government contracts. The most recent deal Interserve secured from Whitehall was a 600million contract for discharging patients from hospitals. Interserve was one of 16 suppliers named on the contract. The most recent deal Interserve secured from Whitehall was a 600million contract for discharging patients from hospitals Interserves work with the hospitals started just over a week ago. The company had been charged with moving patients from acute care units into care homes or back into their own residences. Other key wins included a 66.7million contract with the Crown Commercial Service, an executive agency of the Cabinet Office, awarded last July. The outsourcer also secured a 31.4million contract with Londons Metropolitan Police. The contract, awarded in January 2018 and ending in April 2028, is for supplying equipment and engineering services. These contracts were awarded despite chief executive Debbie White warning analysts in February that the company had lost out on 150 million worth of contracts in the final three months of the previous year because it was in financial difficulties. The outsourcer also secured a 31.4million contract with Londons Metropolitan Police Last week, Capita posted a 26 per cent fall in profits, which came after a string of profit warnings in 2017 and a 700million rights issue in 2018. Kier, which undertook a 250million rights issue at the end of last year, revealed last week that an accounting error had added 40million to its debt, sending its shares down by more than 10 per cent. The share prices of Capita and Kier have fallen by 26 per cent and 51 per cent respectively over the past year. Construction giant Carillion went into liquidation in January 2018 after buckling under a huge debt pile. MPs described the failure as a story of recklessness, hubris and greed, its business model was a relentless dash for cash. In the wake of the scandal, the Government asked outsourcers to document details of their public sector work to allow for the smooth transfer of the business in the case of insolvency. With the average UK family throwing away 810 a year in food and drink, there is a serious need to cut down on waste in our homes. So a new scheme inviting residents and businesses drop off any unwanted fruit and vegetables to a community fridge has been launched to help local people in need. Some 50 of the fridges have opened around Britain since 2016, with the latest one launched on Tuesday at The Sherriff Centre in West Hampstead, North West London. Local council officials, councillors and residents gather for the opening of the community fridge on Tuesday at The Sherriff Centre in West Hampstead, North West London The new community fridge (left) was the brainchild of local student Tamara Jacobs (right) Unwanted food can be dropped off at the community centre and then shared with local residents who might be on low incomes and requiring fresh food. It was the idea of local student Tamara Jacobs, 19, who said: 'I have always been concerned about the wasting of food, because I believe it is a matter of injustice. 'I read about the community fridge in Brixton and fell in love with the concept of anyone being able to donate their leftover food that would otherwise go to waste and anyone being able to take it, eliminating the taboo of being a claimant. 'I knew that we needed this installed because I have seen how much food is sadly wasted in my own household and others, with nowhere previously to donate it. 'No one should not be able to have three meals a day while others casually throw out food, so we must all take action to fairly distribute our food resources.' The Sherriff Centre is a community centre featuring a Post Office, cafe and children's soft play It comes amid mounting concerns over food waste, with UK households discarding more than 13billion worth of food a year - or 7.3million tonnes of waste. Tulip Siddiq, the Labour MP for Hampstead and Kilburn, has supported the project and tweeted this week that it was 'brilliant work' to get it opened. Camden councillor Angela Mason said: 'Thanks to Tamara Jacobs, a student and local resident who came up with this great idea, anyone on a low income who would like to pick up some fresh food can drop by the centre anytime during the day. 'Not only will this fridge help our community to eat more healthily, it will also help to reduce food waste - another issue we take very seriously - by encouraging residents to drop off any unwanted fruit and vegetables they have at home.' The first community fridge was launched by environmental charity Hubbub in Derbyshire in 2016, with more than 50 now in action across Britain. The community hub is inside the Victorian St James Church, where Sunday services are held The Sherriff Centre is a community hub featuring a Post Office, cafe and children's soft play inside the Victorian St James Church, where Sunday services are still held. The launch comes two months after a 'social supermarket' opened offering a week's worth of shopping for just 3 to Britons struggling to feed their families. The food, worth between 15 and 35 as a basket of goods, is donated to The Community Pantry by major retailers including Marks & Spencer and Morrisons. The supermarket in Crewe, Cheshire, helps those struggling financially to put food on their tables and is serving so many people that it has had to open an extra day. A Virginia man who fatally shot a bystander while arguing with his ex-girlfriend's new boyfriend will serve only 10 years in prison for manslaughter under a plea deal. The Virginian-Pilot reported Thursday that 41-year-old Nathaniel Lamarr Williams, of Norfolk, Virginia, entered an Alford Plea - asserting his innocence but acknowledging there's evidence to find him guilty - in his 2017 shooting of 25-year-old Aaron Reynolds Charles. Prosecutors dropped a second-degree murder charge and agreed to limit his sentence to 10 years in prison, while Williams pleaded to charges of involuntary manslaughter and a related shooting count. Nathaniel Lamarr Williams, 41, of Norfolk, Virginia, was sentenced to 10 years in prison after entering an Alford Plea in his 2017 shooting of 25-year-old Aaron Reynolds Charles Aaron Reynolds Charles was attempting to mediate a fight between Williams and his ex-girlfriend's new boyfriend when Williams fatally shot him Williams' ex-girlfriend, Elaina Johnson, and the mother of his child, told the court that Williams was visiting her that August when her new boyfriend stopped by and the two men argued in front of her home. She said that when Charles, a neighbor, approached asking them to take their argument elsewhere, Williams shot Charles in the chest and then pistol-whipped the mortally wounded man. Charles was declared dead at the scene. An autopsy revealed that the bullet had pierced his heart, right lung and spine before exiting through his back. The blow to his head left him with an broken eye socket and a one-inch gash that went all the way to the bone. Johnson had previously told the court that neither Charles nor her new boyfriend had attempt to jump at or hit Williams. She said that they did not touch him. Newly unsealed documents from the trial of Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman detail the behind-the-scenes efforts by prosecutors to keep out evidence of their witnesses' beliefs in mysticism, raping minors and secret deals with drug enforcement agents. The filings were unsealed late Thursday. The U.S. attorney's office declined to comment Friday, and there was no immediate comment from the defense team. Federal prosecutors filed to preclude El Chapo's defense team from questioning Alex Cifuentes, the kingpin's former 'right-hand man,' about young girls the two men allegedly would have delivered to them for sex, the New York Post reported. Defense attorneys wanted to ask the witness about the child sex abuse allegations while avoiding previously disseminated reports that Guzman had his assistant drug girls as young as age 13, who he called his 'vitamins,' so he could rape them. Joaquin Guzman, left, seen with Alex Cifuentes-Villa, center, and an unidentified woman. Cifuentes, a prosecution witness against Guzman, allegedly would take part in procuring underage girls to rape alongside the drug lord, an issue the defense wanted to raise at trial Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman is escorted by soldiers during a presentation in Mexico City, January 8, 2016. Guzman would eventually be extradited to the US for trial where his old compatriot Alex Cifuentes testified against him before his conviction The allegations could have hurt the government case in the eyes of the jury because Cifuentes admitted to sex with minors as well. Prosecutors told the judge the 'highly salacious details of sexual activity' were irrelevant to the case. Guzman's attorneys would also deny that their client ever drugged or raped minors. The court filings also discuss Cifuentes' 'extracurricular interests in the Illuminati, Freemasonry, other planets, other galaxies, UFOs and the idea that there was an impending apocalypse in 2012.' 'Simply being intrigued by documentaries on the Discovery Channel does not rise to the level of 'mental instability,'' the prosecution's motion stated. Vintage color photograph of an alleged flying saucer (file photo). Defense attorneys for Juan Guzman wanted to bring up prosecution witness Alex Cifuentes' interests in the occult and UFOs to undermine his credibility during trial Defense attorney Jeffrey Lichtman (left ) cross examines Alex Cifuentes (center), the former 'right hand man' of the accused Mexican drug lord Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman (right) in this courtroom sketch in Brooklyn federal court in New York, January 15, 2019 Alex Cifuentes (left), a close associate of Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman (right-front) is seen testifying in this courtroom sketch 'While it is perhaps not surprising that a member of one of the world's largest drug conspiracies would also have a fascination with other secret societies like the Illuminati, it is not an indicator of mental illness.' Its papers say 'the use of witchcraft and sorcery was not uncommon in Mexico in 2011, which is in and around the time that (Cifuentes) was availing himself of similar services.' The prosecutor also vigorously sought to keep the defense from challenging Vicente Zambada, son of cartel boss Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada, about his claims that he had been working for the Drug Enforcement Administration as a confidential informant even as he was smuggling cocaine. In exchange for inside information on the cartel, he had been promised immunity from prosecution, according to his lawyers. This February 22, 2014 file photo shows Joaquin Guzman, being escorted to a helicopter in Mexico City following his capture in the beach resort town of Mazatlan Authorities escort 'El Chapo' Guzman, center, from a plane to a waiting caravan of SUVs at Long Island MacArthur Airport in Ronkonkoma, N.Y. on January 19, 2017. The notorious Mexican drug lord was convicted of drug-trafficking chargeson February 12, 2019 Prosecutors, who worked closely with the DEA on the case, insisted Zambada's claims 'do not bear on the issues at this trial' and 'risk unfair prejudice and confusion of the issues.' District Judge Brian Cogan mostly barred defense attorneys from cross-examining the witnesses on the unearthed material during the trial that ended last month with the conviction of the Guzman on drug and murder conspiracy charges. The judge agreed to unseal documents about it once the trial was over at the request of The New York Times and Vice News. Guzman is set to be sentenced on June 25. He faces a mandatory life sentence. An Oklahoma woman was arrested after authorities say she used a T-shirt gun to launch drugs, cellphones and other contraband over a prison fence. Kerri Jo Hickman, 40, of Oologah, Oklahoma, was taken into custody on complaints of introducing contraband into a penal institution, conspiracy and drug trafficking following the alleged incident which occurred March 10. The Oklahoma Department of Corrections said that morning, security at North Fork Correctional Unit in Sayre, Oklahoma, saw someone launch a package over the fence near a housing unit, which prompted a lockdown at the facility, according to KOTV. Kerri Jo Hickman, 40, was charged with smuggling contraband into Oklahoma's North Fork Correctional Unit after she allegedly used a t-shirt gun to deposit a package over the fence Authorities said they followed the suspect later identified as Hickman and pulled her over near the prison, which is when they found a T-shirt gun and another package in her car. The package that Hickman allegedly shot over the prison fence was said to have contained cell phones, ear buds, chargers, meth, digital scales, pot and tobacco. Prison guards were said to have intercepted that package before its intended recipient was able to grab it, according to The Smoking Gun. Hickman was said to have used a Bleacher Reacher Pro t-shirt gun, which retails for $1,599, to lob the package over the fence. The seven-pound t-shirt gun is capable of propelling items as far as 300 feet. Hickman allegedly blasted a package containing drugs, cell phones, chargers, digital scales and tobacco over the prison fence before driving away Authorities said Hickman used this Bleacher Reacher Pro t-shirt gun during the incident The North Fork Correctional Unit was locked down after the package made it over the fence Hickman was booked into Beckham County, where she is being held on a $200,000 bond. Her arrest is said to have come less than three months after she was released from state prison custody in late-January. KOTV reported that Hickman has multiple prior convictions for drug possession dating back to 2005. Authorities noted that they also found drugs in her home after they searched it. DeAngelo, 73, was actually previously arrested 22-years-ago in an unrelated sting operation regarding a robbery at a gas station After genealogical DNA led police to allegedly identify Joseph James DeAngelo as the infamous Golden State Killer last year, authorities said the ex-cop had never been on their radar before - but newly recovered documents suggest otherwise. According to The Sacramento Bee, DeAngelo was actually previously arrested 22-years-ago in an unrelated sting operation regarding a robbery at a gas station. DeAngelo was detained in April 1996, after Sacramento police lured him to an office building on the false pretense that he'd won free Super Bowl tickets. 50 at the time, he was one of a number of suspects who responded to the ad. He was detained for three-and-a-half hours before being released. At the time, his only known run-in with police occurred in 1979, when he was fired as an officer of the Auburn Police Department (seen left in uniform) for shoplifting from a Citrus Heights Drug Store. A composite sketch of the suspect draws a remarkable resemblance to DeAngelo at the time DeAngelo faces charges linking him to at least 13 murders and over 50 rapes across California in the 1970s and 80s DNA testing linked Joseph James DeAngelo, 72, to some of the 12 murders carried out in California in the 1970s and 80s The discovery was made after The Bee obtained court records that linked DeAngelo to a $1 million civil lawsuit he filed against the gas station owner for what he claimed was his false arrest. 'We had no way of knowing at the time who we actually had in our jail because the evidence wasnt there, the technology wasnt there,' Sacramento Police Sgt. Shaun Hampton said on Friday. Hampton added that the taking of DNA samples for all detained suspects wasn't considered protocol in 1996. 'I dont think theres any way we could have known, there was no way for us to identify this person by him simply being in our jail for a few hours,' he added. According to the lawsuit, DeAngelo had prepaid for gas at a station when the pump malfunctioned, prompting him to go inside to seek a refund. The clerk did not understand him and reported him as an attempted robber. William Wright, who represented DeAngelo in the suit, said he remembered him as a 'nice guy' who was upset about what happened at the gas station. He did not realize his client from 22 years earlier was the Golden State Killer until contacted by the newspaper. 'I'd seen the guy TV, but I never made the connection,' Wright said. 'He was very pleasant when he was talking to me.' More than two decades would pass before DeAngelo, now 73, was in police custody again - this time for charges linking him to at least 13 murders and over 50 rapes across California in the 1970s and 80s. He's been awaiting trial on 26 counts in the same very Sacramento jail since last April. He has not yet entered a plea. DeAngelo is awaiting trial on 26 counts in the same very Sacramento jail he was once detained in, since last April. He has not yet entered a plea Investigators zeroed in on DeAngelo by matching DNA evidence found at the crime scene to genealogical data stored on the websites 23andme and Ancestry.com (pictured DeAngelo's Citrus Heights home) The case of the so-called Golden State Killer and East Area Rapist eluded investigators and simultaneously terrorized communities across California for decades. The assailant, wearing a balaclava, would monitor suburban neighborhoods, sneak into homes at night and blind his prey with a flash-light. Usually targeting couples, he would tie up the man, place dishes on his back and threaten to kill both victims if he heard the plates fall onto the floor while he raped the woman. He spoke only through gritted teeth and his depraved obsession with committing heinous acts of rape soon escalated to including murder. Many of survivors have claimed the GSK would often sob uncontrollably after committing a sexual assault, calling out for his mother. He would then sit quietly in the darkness for hours to trick his victims into thinking he'd left, before striking again. The suspect's last known killing occurred in 1986; and as mysteriously as the demonic figure appeared, he vanished without a trace. That was until April last year, when investigators zeroed in on DeAngelo by matching DNA evidence found at the crime scene to genealogical data stored on the websites 23andme and Ancestry.com. At the time, his only known run-in with police occurred in 1979, when he was fired as an officer of the Auburn Police Department for shoplifting from a Citrus Heights Drug Store. 'We knew we were looking for a needle in a haystack, but we also knew that needle was there,' Sacramento County District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert said last year. 'We found the needle in the haystack and it was right here in Sacramento. The answer was always going to be in the DNA.' But she could have caught a train to Peterborough and then a 30 cab home A woman wanted a train to Peterborough in time for the last Lincolnshire service Generous Tube bosses splashed out 625 for a taxi to take a passenger 120 miles home after a fault on the Victoria line meant she missed her train. And although the unnamed woman could have caught a train to Peterborough and then taken a 30 cab to her home in Spalding, Lincolnshire, staff booked a taxi for the entire two-and-a-half hour trip from Kings Cross. They said they were unable to arrange a car from Peterborough. This map shows the 625 taxi journey in red, compared to the 30 trip highlighted in blue. Staff booked a taxi for the entire two-and-a-half hour trip from Kings Cross. They said they were unable to arrange a car from Peterborough The woman had intended to catch a train to Peterborough in time for the last local service to Spalding but missed it due to the problems on the Tube. A fault on the Victoria line meant she missed her train [File photo] Details of the journey, in June last year, emerged as London Mayor Sadiq Khan released figures showing Transport for London spent more than 3.5million on taxis in 2017/18. He called it an exceptional trip linked to severe service disruption. The woman had intended to catch a train to Peterborough in time for the last local service to Spalding but missed it due to the problems on the Tube. Most of the 3,587,031 was spent on collecting early morning Tube staff from home and bringing them into work. The unnamed woman could have caught a train to Peterborough and then taken a 30 cab to her home in Spalding, Lincolnshire [File photo] But Susan Hall, deputy leader of the Greater London Authoritys Conservatives, said the bill was a kick in the teeth for Londoners contending with rammed Tube carriages and rising season ticket prices. TfL is 200million in the red this financial year and is not expected to break even until 2022/23. A spokesman said: We have reviewed our policy on special taxis. Advertisement A tragic three-year-old 'died in his father's arms' during the New Zealand mosque terror attack with his brother only surviving the horror by playing dead, a friend has revealed - as the names of the first victims begin to emerge. Mucad Ibrahim was attending Friday prayers with his father and older brother Abdi Ibrahim when a gunman stormed the al Noor mosque in Christchurch and opened fire on the worshippers. He is believed to be among 49 confirmed dead in the attack, as tributes are paid to eight others thought dead in the tragic shooting - with more still unaccounted for. It's believed that at the time of the horrific attack, Mucad ran from the gunman while his father and brother played dead. His family had been desperately searching for him in the wake of the shooting, but have now paid tribute to the youngster on Facebook. 'Verily we belong to God and to Him we shall return,' Mr Ibrahim said, adding: 'Will miss you dearly brother'. On Saturday morning, a friend confirmed that little Mucad had died the previous evening in his father's arms. 'Mucaad Ibrahim sadly passed away in his fathers arms, last night, and was taken away by staff,' he said. 'RIP my little friend, you will be sorely missed by all. Such a beacon of light,' he added. Scroll down for video Mucad Ibrahim (pictured left) was attending Friday prayers with his father and older brother Abdi Ibrahim (pictured right) when a gunman stormed the al Noor mosque The family of three-year-old Mucad Ibrahim (pictured) who was last seen at the Deans Avenue mosque with his father and brother Abdi have paid tribute to the youngster on Facebook Mucad (pictured) reportedly ran from the attacker while his father and brother played dead Since Mr Ibrahim confirmed the tragic passing of Mucad, well-wishers have been paying tribute to the little boy. 'My heart aches for you and your family. Nothing I can say can help, but my sincerest condolences,' one person wrote. 'So sad to hear about your loss, may his soul rest in peace, may Allah give patience to your family,' another added. A third wrote: 'Sorry [you] lost your brother abdi . Such a sad time . Stay strong and love to you and your family'. The youngster is thought to be among 49 killed in the massacre at 1.40pm local time on Friday, with the families of others thought dead now also paying tribute. Fifteen of his victims have been identified by shattered family members, including Palestinian surgeon Dr Amjad Hamid, 57, who had moved to New Zealand with his wife for a better life, and Kuwait futsal goalkeeper Atta Elayyan, 33, who had recently become a father. National-level futsal player Atta Elayyan (right) was reportedly killed on Friday. He is being remembered as an 'inspiration' Also believed to be among the dead is Husna Ara Parvin (pictured), who was reportedly gunned down as she tried to save her quadriplegic husband from the shooter Cardiologist Amjad Hamid (pictured) was mowed down after moving to New Zealand 23 years ago because he wanted a better future for himself and his wife Another believed to be among the dead is Bangladeshi Husna Parvin, who was reportedly gunned down as she tried to save her wheelchair-bound quadriplegic husband from the shooter. Haji Daoud Nabi, 71, Naeem Rashid and his 21-year-old son Talha are among those now named. With Abdul Hamid, Khaled Haj Musatafa and Ashraf Ali also among those thought to be dead. And also today, tributes were paid to Husna Ara Parvin and Sayyad Milne, who is just 14-years-old, both thought to have died in the tragic shooting. Haji Daoud Nabi (pictured), 71, a father-of-five and retired engineer, moved to New Zealand from Afghanistan in 1977 and set up a new life as one of the 'first Muslims in New Zealand'. He is thought to be among the dead in the Christchurch shooting Naeem Rashid (pictured), from Abbottabad in Pakistan, was hailed a hero after he tried to wrestle the gun from the Christchurch shooter on Friday. But he was badly wounded after sadly died later in hospital Mr Rashid (centre) worked in Pakistan at a private bank before moving to Christchurch where he worked as a teacher. In a tragic twist, Mr Rashid's 21-year-old son, Talha, also lost his life during the mass shooting Mr Nabi, a father-of-five and retired engineer, moved to New Zealand from Afghanistan in 1977 and set up a new life as one of the 'first Muslims in New Zealand'. Two of his sons Omar Nabi, 43, and Yama Nabi, 45, appeared outside Christchurch District Court on Saturday morning where they shared photos of their father. The pair were told to expect the worst on Friday afternoon after their father hadn't returned from his Friday prayers. Naeem Rashid, from Abbottabad in Pakistan, was hailed a hero after he tried to wrestle the gun from the Christchurch shooter on Friday. He was badly wounded after he launched himself at the shooter in a bid to protect fellow worshippers. He was rushed to hospital following the attack, but later died. Two of Mr Nabi's sons Omar Nabi, 43, and Yama Nabi, 45, appeared outside Christchurch District Court on Saturday morning where they shared photos of their father Omar (pictured) said his father was one of the first Muslims in New Zealand, opening the Tuam Street mosque in Christchurch, after discovering the country was a 'slice of paradise' A Facebook appeal has been issued for missing man Lilik Abdul Hamid (pictured), who is thought to have died in the mosque Mr Rashid worked in Pakistan at a private bank before moving to Christchurch where he worked as a teacher. In a tragic twist, Mr Rashid's 21-year-old son, Talha, also lost his life during the mass shooting. Dr Khursheed confirmed to ARY News that his brother Mr Rashid and nephew Talha had been killed in the terrifying attack. A Facebook appeal was issued for missing man Lilik Abdul Hamid but it has since been confirmed he did not survive. 'A friend of one struggle... has passed away in New Zealand... the victim of NZ animal terrorist,' a relative wrote on Facebook. 'All Muslims are grieving and pray for you.' Born in Indonesia, Mr Abdul Hamid was a practicing Muslim who lived in Christchurch. Cashmere High School student Sayyad Milne (pictured), 14, who was at Friday prayers when the shooting started, is believed to be dead. Although it's not been officially confirmed, his father has spoken of his loss Cashmere High School student Sayyad Milne, 14, who was at Friday prayers when the shooting started, is believed to be dead. Although it's not been officially confirmed, his father has spoken of his loss. 'I've lost my little boy, he's just turned 14,' his devastated father John Milne told NZME. 'I haven't heard officially yet that he's actually passed but I know he has because he was seen. '[I'm] keeping it together and tears are helping. People are helping. Just by being here, it is helping,' he added. Ashraf Ali, a respected imam at the Masjid Al Noor mosque who was originally from Fiji, is also believed to be among the dead. Ashraf Ali (pictured) a respected imam at the Masjid Al Noor mosque who was originally from Fiji, is also thought to be among the dead Abdul Qayyum (pictured) a close friend of Ashraf Ali, who is confirmed dead, said he will always remember his 'quiet' friend's laugh Khaled Haj Musatafa was confirmed dead by the group Syrian Solidarity New Zealand. He was a refugee from the war in Syria and moved with his family in 2018 to New Zealand, the group said 'We went to school together,' his friend Abdul Qayyum told Daily Mail Australia, before weeping. They were meant to go to a gathering in their home country in a few weeks, but it won't be happening now. Mr Qayyum said he will always remember his 'quiet' friend's laugh. 'There was a game we used to play called 'Last Card' . 'Every time I saw him I called him last card and when he saw me he called me last card,' he chuckled. Another believed to be among the dead is Husna Ara Parvin, who was reportedly gunned down as she tried to save her quadriplegic husband from the shooter, according to The Bangla Tribune. With Khaled Haj Musatafa also confirmed dead by the group Syrian Solidarity New Zealand. He was a refugee from the war in Syria and moved with his family in 2018 to New Zealand, the group said. Also believed to be among the dead is Husna Ara Parvin (pictured), who was reportedly gunned down as she tried to save her quadriplegic husband from the shooter Many are still missing following the tragic shooting, with a spokesman for Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirming that five Pakistani citizens are unaccounted for. The Pakistan Association of New Zealand (PANZ) confirmed 34-year-old Syed Jahandad Ali was also missing. A work colleague reportedly saw Mr Ali heading to the mosque just after 1pm on Friday. Other missing victims are understood to be Vora Ramiz, 28, and 36-year-old Hussain Al Umari. Al Umari's family have registered him as missing after he was not among the injured rushed to Christchurch Hospital on Friday afternoon. 'We are just praying and trying to be patient,' Al Umari's sister Aya said. 'I feel for those who already know the fate of their loved ones. We have to be strong and stay together.' The Al Umari family moved to New Zealand from the United Arab Emirates 22 years ago. A spokesman for Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that five Pakistani citizens are missing (pictured missing person Syed Jahandad Ali) The Pakistan Association of New Zealand (PANZ) confirmed 34-year-old Syed Jahandad Ali was also missing after Friday's mosque attack Indian politician Asaduddin Owaisi confirmed on Twitter Farhaj Ahsan, whose parents live in Hyderabad, was also reported missing. Mr Owaisi has also requested support of authorities in helping a Hyderabad resident travel to New Zealand to see his brother who was reportedly shot in the chest. 'A video from Christchurch shows one Ahmed Jehangir who was shot. His brother Iqbal Jehangir is a resident of Hyderabad and would like to go to NZ for Ahmed's family,' Mr Owaisi tweeted. At least one Jordanian was killed in the attacks and two are critical among the eight injured, Jordan's Foreign Ministry announced, according to Arab News. Khaled Haj Musatafa was reportedly confirmed dead while Jordanian barber Wasseim Alsati and his daughter were critically injured. Mr Alsati, who moved to New Zealand for a better life, is recovering in hospital where he shared a video to social media. Abdulrahman Hashi, 60, a preacher at Dar Al Hijrah Mosque in Minneapolis, told The Washington Post that his four-year-old nephew was killed in the attack. Indian politician Asaduddin Owaisi confirmed Farhaj Ahsan was also reported missing on Twitter At least one Jordanian was killed in the attacks and two are critical among the eight injured, Jordan's Foreign Ministry announced Mr Hashi said his brother-in-law Adan Ibrahin Dirie was in hospital after suffering a gunshot wound. He had been praying with his five children who all managed to escape except the youngest child who was killed. Others still missing include Kamel Darwish and former Muslim Association of Canterbury secretary Abdelfattah Qasem. Mr Qasem is currently listed as missing and initial reports indicated he was spotted gravely injured in the mosque. A woman was pictured outside a community center near Masjid Al Noor in Christchurch said her husband has been missing since Friday's mosque attack. A woman (pictured) was seen distressed outside a community center near Masjid Al Noor in Christchurch, and said her husband has been missing since Friday's mosque attack The woman was pictured holding up pictures of her missing husband on her mobile phone. He's not been seen since the attack Additionally, a toddler and a teenager boy are among the victims in need of urgent hospital treatment following the New Zealand mosque massacre, Christchurch Hospital's head of surgery Greg Robertson confirmed. The two-year-old boy and 13-year-old boy were rushed to hospital following the mosque terrorist attack. Both are now in a stable condition. A four-year-old girl has also been left in critical condition and has been transferred from Christchurch hospital to the Starship Hospital, a children's hospital in Auckland. Mr Robertson confirmed medical staff are continuing to provide care for 39 injured patients. Christchurch Hospital's head of surgery Greg Robertson (pictured) confirmed a four-year-old girl is in critical condition following the shooting Out of the 48 patients admitted to hospital, seven individuals have now been discharged. 'The 36 in hospital also include two children that remain within our care. Both are boys, one is aged two, and the other is aged 13,' Mr Robertson told reporters. 'Both are in a stable condition. As you would expect, the wounds from gunshots are often quite significant,' he added. The surgeon also confirmed that four patients had passed away while they were being transported to the hospital. He also said that while the victims ranged in age from 'very young to quite elderly' in the main the majority of patients were males in the age range of thirties to forties. 'Of the 36 patients that remain in hospital, 11 of them are in the intensive care unit, including one female aged in her mid-20s. 'All of those in ICU are what we would consider critically ill,' the surgeon said. While some patients remain in a stable condition, the surgeon confirmed that others are not. He added that 12 operating theatres worked throughout the night. Many victims will need ongoing care. 'As you appreciate, there is usually not just one system involved, and we are using all of our surgical services in their different specialties to deliver care for the patients as they need it,' he added. The fast-growing, fast-casual burger chain, Shake Shack, is shaking things up in terms of their employment strategy by offering a four-day work week. The gourmet burger chain is testing the innovation in some of its Las Vegas, Nevada, locations due to a tightening labor market and unemployment being at its lowest in almost 50 years, according to Bloomberg. 'Here in Las Vegas, in some of our Shacks, we're testing a four-day work week. That's a big thing,' Chief Executive Officer Randy Garutti said at an investor conference Thursday. 'Nobody's really been able to figure that out in the restaurant business.' 'If we can figure that out on scale, it could be a big opportunity,' Garutti added. 'We're not promising it yet, but it's something we're having fun trying, and seeing how our leaders like it on a recruiting basis and ongoing retention basis.' A Shake Shack restaurant on the Las Vegas Strip on December 19, 2018. The restaurant chain announced that locations in Las Vegas is experimenting with the four-day work week Former US Labor Secretary Thomas Perez (center) and Shake Shack CEO Randy Garutti (left) laugh with a Shake Shack employee on March 21, 2014 Workers prepare hamburgers in the kitchen at the first Shake Shack burger restaurant to open in Moscow, Russia, on Tuesday, December 24, 2013 With average hourly earnings for limit-service restaurant workers outpacing the national average for all industries, and a nationwide movement to increase the minimum wage to $15 an hour gaining steam, increased wages does not appear to be enough to meet the staffing challenge. The hospitality industry's turnover rate for employees remained more than 70% for the second straight year, according to MarketWatch, and staffing restaurants in general has become a challenge. Last year, Aloha Hospitality, which runs Baumhower's Victory Grille and Dauphin's in Alabama, announced in a press release a four-day-work week to promote a 'life-work balance' for 'a younger millennial workforce.' A review of a four-day-work week at New Zealand financial firm, Perpetual Guardian, last month made headlines after after their six-week trial involving almost 250 employees appeared to be successful enough to retain it permanently. Randy Garutti, CEO of Shake Shack, left, and Danny Meyer, founder of Union Square Hospitality Group, in New York on March 13, 2013 The original Shake Shack location in Madison Square Park in New York City Striking McDonald's restaurant employees in an intersection before being arrested, after walking off the job to demand a $15 per hour wage and union rights during nationwide 'Fight for $15 Day of Disruption' protests on November 29, 2016 in Los Angeles, California While the four-day-work week is found more regularly in places outside of the U.S., the concept is popular with almost two-thirds of American workers responding to a survey that they would wish to work less than five days a week. For Shake Shake, an innovative approach to a human resources problem is not entirely unusual. In 2016, the restaurant chain raised their wages higher than the national average in order to attract and retain higher quality employees. 'One of the things I'm proudest about is just how many of the managers at Shake Shack, who all have stock options, started off as hourly workers, but at a much higher rate than they might have made in the fast-food world,' Shake Shack founder Danny Meyer told Business Insider. When Lady Davina Windsor wed Gary Lewis, the Maori son of a champion sheep-shearer, their marriage was seen as an example of how commoners from the most diverse backgrounds could be welcomed into the Royal Family. Sadly, I can reveal that their marriage has now hit the rocks after 14 years, with friends citing 'cultural differences' as one of the causes. 'It's very sad, but their differences were just too great in the end,' one of their friends tells me. Gary and Lady Davina's marraige has hit the rocks after 14 years Lady Davina, 41, who is known as Denny, is a daughter of the Queen's first cousin, the Duke of Gloucester, and is 30th in line to the throne. She met handsome Lewis, 48, a sheep shearer and carpenter known as 'Gazza' to pals, while they were on holiday in Bali in 2000. A great-granddaughter of George V, Lady Davina tied the knot with Lewis four years later in the private chapel at Kensington Palace, making Gary the first person of Maori descent to marry into the Royal Family. Lady Davina gave birth to a daughter, Senna Kowhai, who is now aged eight, and a son, Tane Mahuta, six. He was named after the giant Tane Mahuta kauri tree in the Waipoua Forest, in New Zealand. Gary also has a 26-year-old son from a previous relationship. The couple, who attended the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's wedding, lived for a time in an unremarkable working-class suburb of Auckland. One neighbour was astonished to learn that royalty had been living next door. 'I was surprised because I would describe that place as poxy,' he said. An estate agent commented: 'I rented one place to them, but they asked me to find somewhere a bit cheaper.' They later moved back to Britain. The couple have a daughter, Senna Kowhai, who is now aged eight, and a son, Tane Mahuta, six Lady Davina grew up in an apartment in Kensington Palace and a country pile in Northamptonshire and went to boarding school at 35,000-per-year St George's Ascot. A Buckingham Palace spokesman confirms that the couple's marriage is over. 'Lady Davina Lewis and Gary Lewis were divorced last year,' a spokesman tells me. A royal source insists the divorce has been 'amicable' and that both remain 'actively involved in the upbringing of their children'. It is at least the 11th divorce among the 22 great-grandchildren of George V. Prince William's former private secretary Miguel Head is joining the royal money-go-round. Head, who worked for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge for six years, is to join Milltown Partners, the PR firm founded by Paddy Harverson, William's former official spokesman. Harverson confirms: 'Mig is joining us as one of our senior advisers.' His business is so exclusive it doesn't reveal the names of clients. John Humphrys, who is set to leave Radio 4's Today Programme this year, is worried about having nothing to do BBC rottweiler John Humphrys, who leaves Radio 4's Today programme this year, appears to be having second thoughts. 'The prospect of doing nothing fills me with unadulterated horror,' admits Humphrys, 75, who also hosts Mastermind. 'That's why I tried to keep the whole thing a secret just in case I changed my mind at the last minute.' He is now considering planting a forest. Referring to a landowner who grew more than 100,000 trees, Humphrys says: 'It turned out he had only just retired. No one really noticed. 'But I know which one of us had made the most impact on the world in his working life.' Snowdon and sister's tribute to Queen Mum The Earl of Snowdon and his sister, Lady Sarah Chatto, were out as a crafty duo this week, in tribute to their grandmother, the Queen Mother. Thirty years ago, the Queen Mum allowed craftsmen to become Royal warrant holders. The Earl of Snowdon and his sister, Lady Sarah Chatto, paid tribute to their grandmother, the Queen Mother, this week And on Wednesday night David and Sarah hosted a table at the V&A to raise money for the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust, which provides funds for beekeepers, sculptors, silversmiths and potters. In her 90s, the Queen Mother would turn up unannounced at her grandson's shop, Linley, to see his hand-crafted furniture. Princess Margaret, asked by then PM Jim Callaghan why her son had become a carpenter, replied: 'Christ was a carpenter.' The Prime Minister's former chief aide, who left Downing Street last December after losing a power struggle with Mrs Johnson, claimed the decision by Mr Johnson to marry his third wife was an 'inevitable disaster'. In a Q&A on his blog, where he urged subscribers to 'ask me anything', he said: 'He's a shambles but the shambles has been made worse by hooking up with a wrong un [Carrie Johnson]who wants to control the country via him. He got a wrong un pregnant, listened to her insane advice/screaming, and went into a flat spin'. The renegade former civil servant said Boris 'hasn't heard the last' of the Christmas party scandal, claiming there will be pictures proving it took place, and said that he knew teenagers who would be better at the job than the Prime Minister. His extraordinary attack on the Prime Minister's wife came as she remained in hospital just 24 hours after giving birth to a baby girl. Mr Johnson, who became a father for the seventh time yesterday, is under pressure to quit over his handling of covid, allegations of multiple illegal Christmas parties and claims he lied about the funding of the lavish Downing Street flat refurbishment including 800-plus a roll gold wallpaper. He claimed Mr Johnson 'throws everybody under the bus' to save himself but predicted Tory MPs will wield the axe in 2022, adding: 'I know 15 year-olds who would do a better job at PM in all ways than Boris, except giving a speech - he cant actually do anything other than the words/bullsh*t side of things'. Horrifying footage has emerged showing two thugs smashing up a moving car with 'a hammer and a baton' in broad daylight near a mosque in East London today. The men, described as white and in their 20s, were filmed clinging to the bonnet of the black Ford Fiesta and trying to attack the victim inside as it sped down the road in front of frightened witnesses. A 27-year-old Asian man was hospitalised with head injuries following the violent assault at lunchtime on the busy street in Whitechapel, Met Police confirmed. Two white men in their 20s appear to brandish a hammer and baton before attacking the black Ford Fiesta near a mosque in Whitechapel, east London One of the attackers jumps on the bonnet of the moving car and smashes the windscreen in an attempt to get the victim inside A 27-year-old Asian man was hospitalised with head injuries after the attackers clubbed him with hammers. Pictured: The windscreen and back window were caved in during the assault Some witnesses claimed the attackers shouted Islamophobic abuse from a car before getting out and brandishing weapons near the Ashaadibi Centre mosque. But a spokesman for the force said initial witness accounts 'didn't indicate that this was a hate crime'. Police - who were called to the scene at 1.18pm today - said the victim is yet to give them a full account of the incident The attack took place hours after at least 49 worshippers were killed at two mosques in New Zealand by a far-right terrorist. A spokesman said: 'It was reported that three males got out of a blue Ford Fiesta and attacked another man with a weapon - believed to be a hammer or other blunt object. Some witnesses claimed the attackers shouted Islamophobic abuse from a car before getting out and brandishing weapons The attackers chase after the car when the victim tries to escape - as witnesses stroll by in the background 'The suspects returned to their car and left the scene before police arrived. Enquiries are ongoing to trace this vehicle. The suspects are all described as white men, believed to be aged in their 20s'. The spokesperson said the victim was 'abusive' towards hospital staff and left without being treated. They said: 'The London Ambulance Service were called, but the 27-year-old victim was driven directly to an east London hospital by friends. 'At hospital, it was established that the victim had sustained a head injury, which was not believed to be serious. 'However, he was abusive towards hospital staff, and left the hospital without being treated.' No arrests have been made. A lawmaker in Missouri recently introduced a bill in the state House that would mandate virtually every adult Missourian own an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle by the end of next year. Republican State Rep. Andrew McDaniel sponsored House Bill 1108, known as the McDaniel Militia Act, and presented it to his fellow lawmakers on February 28. If it passes, the bill would require all adults ages 18 to 35 who can legally possess a firearm to own an AR-15 by August 28, 2020. McDaniel also introduced a separate House Bill two days before HB-1108 that would require state residents to own a hand gun. Republican State Rep. Andrew McDaniel (pictured) introduced House Bill 1108, dubbed the McDaniel Militia Act, on February 28 The bill would require all adults ages 18 to 35 who can legally possess a firearm to own an AR-15 and grant them a tax credit for its purchase. Pictured is a file image of AR-15s However it turns out both bills may actually be a form of political trolling. After the gun mandate legislation received national attention on Friday, McDaniel, a former deputy sheriff in Pemiscot County, told reporters he introduced the bills to start a conversation about gun mandates. He insisted he never actually expected them to become law in their current forms. McDaniel told the Washington Post on Friday: 'The other side of the aisle loves mandates, so I'm trying to get them to make an argument against mandates. 'I would never try to mandate anyone do anything against their will.' As it's currently written, McDaniel's AR-15 bill would also grant Missourians with individual tax credits to purchase their firearms. In a separate interview on Friday, McDaniel told Splinter that his real goal is for Missourians who want to purchase an AR-15 to receive a tax credit to buy one. McDaniel told reporters on Friday that he never intended for his proposed bill to become law in its current form AR-15 rifles at a gun shop. McDaniel wants Missourians who purchase an AR-15 to receive a tax credit to buy one 'I merely planned for media to write about it but would ultimately amend it to take out the mandates and requirements (age and type of gun) and turn it into a gun tax credit bill,' McDaniel wrote in an emailed statement. Missouri's gun rights debate has hit the headlines twice already this week. On Monday, state lawmakers debated a separate measure that would allow concealed weapons to be carried in public places that currently ban guns. On Tuesday, a top aide to a Missouri state senator was arrested after a bar fight at Spectator's Bar and Grill in downtown Jefferson City, Missouri during which the loaded 9 mm Ruger handgun he was carrying fell to the floor of the restaurant. The St. Louis-Dispatch reports legislative staffer Jared Brown, chief of staff for State Senator Justin Brown, was charged with unlawful use of a weapon and use of a loaded weapon while intoxicated after the incident. The Missouri Democratic Party has seized on Brown's arrest to criticize state Republicans and their pro-gun rights legislative agenda. 'From alcohol-fueled bar fights, to advancing legislation that would allow anyone to carry a concealed weapon anywhere from bars to daycares, to mandating gun ownership with a tax subsidy for gun manufacturers, the Missouri GOP rarely wastes an opportunity to embarrass themselves or our state,' the Missouri Dems said in a written statement to the Washington Post. 'Republicans should regroup during the spring legislative break and come back ready to do real work that moves Missouri forward,' the group added. Well its all Jon Snows fault. In the last few years I have been invited to take part in Strictly Come Dancing; Big Brother; Im A Celebrity . . . Get Me Out Of Here! and Desert Island Discs. I said no to all of them. But Bake Off seemed different. There was the fund-raising aspect I have lost several friends to cancer. There was the challenge of the show: what can be so hard about mixing stuff in a bowl and sticking it in the oven? And there was the fact that the producers claimed that the Channel Four newscaster Jon Snow had agreed to do it. If it was good enough for my fellow grey-hair, it was good enough for me. But when I turned up at the famous tent in Pinewood, the only other contestants there were an actress from Coronation Street; a pretty girl from an alleged reality show; and a Channel Four comedian who wanted to bake a cake of his bottom. Plus me. Of Jon Snow there was not a sign, though he did, apparently, send along his on-screen valet, Krishnan Guru-Murthy, to take part in another recording. But the old leftie was nowhere to be seen. Not even a flash of his hideous ties or socks. Star baker in the making? Quizmaster and BBC veteran presenter Jeremy Paxman is set to appear on episode four of the popular baking show on March 26 I will happily admit that I am not a natural baker. Cooking I enjoy. But the closest I generally get to baking is when I make my signature quiche. (Real men not only eat it, but make it.) Even then, there was an occasion last autumn when I forgot to put the eggs into the thing. For some reason, various people found this ludicrous. Baking is excuse me a different kettle of fish altogether. In cooking, you taste and modify things, as you progress. In baking, you must stick to the recipe. Even a minute or two in the oven or a few degrees difference in temperature can apparently make an enormous difference. Cooking is an art. Baking is a science. The producer brought a tame expert to my home beforehand, to demonstrate what a mixer is. I signed up for a Saturday morning session at a local cookery school. But the closer the fateful day came, the more nervous I became. Paxman revealed that he has lost several friends to cancer, which is one of the reasons why he decided to take part in the show. He also blames Channel 4 presenter Jon Snow, as he believed his news rival has also agreed to take part They say lambs arriving at the abattoir can sense its not a good place to be. On the appointed Saturday morning I knew how they felt. Since it was mercifully off-mic and off-camera, I will not disclose what presenter Sandi Toksvig said when we met that day. But it was not the sort of language you associate with the chancellors of universities. Our first task seemed easy enough to make biscuits in homage to a pet. Since wed had advance warning, I had brought along a pastry-cutter which vaguely resembled the head of my dog, Derek, an elegant Battersea Dogs Home mutt. It all began to go wrong when I decided to try to reproduce his markings with something called Royal Icing. Apparently, this is considered easy to make. Perhaps it is, though it didnt seem so to me. Paxman is usually more inclined towards grilling university students on BBC quiz show University Challenge, which he has presented since 1994, and has decline several television opportunities including Big Brother and Strictly Come Dancing But it is definitely not easy to apply to ginger biscuits through the nozzle of a plastic bag. Each time I tried to squeeze out a dribble of icing to replicate the dogs colouring, a volcano erupted at the other end of the bag, covering my hands. Royal Icing is sugar and egg-white. Having it all over your hands does not make precision easier. Poor old Derek would have happily eaten them, of course. But, then he lives on dog biscuits. And he certainly would not have recognised himself. For the technical challenge we were asked to make chocolate crumpets, which, frankly, are such a disgusting notion that no self-respecting human being should have a clue what they are. I would not presume to dispense advice about baking, but if any reader is ever inveigled into Crumpet Madness, it is important to take seriously the advice about only half-filling the funny container things with batter. (From left) James Acaster, Russell Tovey, Rylan Clark-Neal, and Michelle Keegan are all appearing as contestants on the five-episode charity special of the Great British Bake-Off The following day we reassembled for the co-called show-stopper, which was to be a cake made to the theme of a hobby. Toff [Georgia Toffolo], the reality show girl, chose to make a cake in the form of a disco. My new-found actress friend wanted to celebrate the Suffragettes. I decided to make a lemon drizzle cake on the theme of fly-fishing. Any sensible person might have asked why? I have no decent excuse. It was as politicians say when theyve been caught doing something they shouldnt be doing a moment of madness. There are few things in life more disappointing than a lemon drizzle cake which doesnt taste lemony-enough. But it wasnt a particularly clever idea to treble the recommended quantity of juice. And it wasnt especially bright to stab a skewer through both top and bottom of the cake, so that when poured on top, the juice ran straight through and out onto the work-top. I covered much of the cake with a blue marscapone icing (extremely easy to do, even if blue looks a bit unappetising.) The presenter claims that Paul Hollywood surprised him by saying that his lemon drizzle cake tasted good, and Prue Leith had taken some of it home with her For reasons which escape me now, I decided to put a figure of Prue Leith, a fellow fisherperson, on a rock overlooking the water. I think by now I could sniff failure in the air (along with the smell of burning) and was trying to be smarmy. I eventually settled for what I thought was an adequate model of Prue in long raincoat, with what was either a deer-stalker or a souwester on her head. She didnt seem much impressed when she saw it. I didnt have enough icing to cover the sides, but Paul Hollywood said that it was quite fashionable to leave them in their natural state. I told him that was the look I was going for. But on reflection perhaps he was trying to be diplomatic. And that was it. It took two days and dozens of crew to produce one episode. I am not going to disclose who won our episode and accept that agreeing to take part was an impulsive thing to do. But I shall look forward to seeing Jon Snow put his money where his mouth once apparently was. If nothing else, I have discovered that baking is much harder than it looks but raising money for cancer research is a good enough cause for public humiliation. True, it was insulting for the producers to try to confiscate our phones in case we looked up help online: as if any of us cared enough to cheat. And Id have been a lot more impressed if the production company involved had donated their fee to Stand Up To Cancer, and if the vast number of techies had also been working for free, but there we are. Paul Hollywood said with surprise that my lemon drizzle cake tasted good, and Prue Leith took some of it home with her. A career as a pastry chef does not beckon. From now on, I shall stick to eating things baked by others. I can manage that easily. The Great Celebrity Bake Off ... for Stand Up To Cancer is on Channel Four on Tuesdays at 8pm. Jeremy Paxman appears in episode four on March 26. You can donate here. The brother of a paratrooper who was involved in Bloody Sunday has threatened legal action against the Government for ruining his life. He said the veteran, known as Soldier C, has spent decades suffering depression and multiple breakdowns after being hounded by police. The brother said Soldier C lived in constant fear of revenge from the IRA. In an emotional interview, he said he was considering legal action against the Government for not helping his brother despite his service for Queen and country. The comments came after another paratrooper, identified as Soldier F, was charged with two murders and four attempted murders over the Bloody Sunday shootings in Londonderry nearly 50 years ago. Youths confront British soldiers minutes before paratroopers opened fire killing 14 civilians on what became known as Bloody Sunday A total of 17 former paratroopers could have faced charges over the 13 deaths on January 30, 1972. Families of the victims have pledged to carry on fighting for justice, raising the prospect of further inquiries. The brother of Soldier C said the veteran, who has early onset dementia, had gathered with his family to await the decision over charges, which was announced by Northern Ireland prosecutors on Thursday. The brother said Soldier C broke down at hearing he would not be prosecuted after spending 47 years living in fear that he might be. The unnamed brother told LBC Radios Tom Swarbrick: My brother is one of those soldiers who has had this hanging over his head for 47 years. I have seen him have several breakdowns over it over the years. He got the phone call saying that he was basically free and cleared. Hes been nervous and he just broke down. He didnt do anything wrong, yet hes had the accusation or the threat of being accused of murder for 47 years and I think it is major part that has ruined his life. In this Feb. 2, 1972 file photo, pallbearers carry one of 13 coffins of Bloody Sunday victims to a graveside during a funeral in Londonderry He said his brother had spent his life living with the threat of being prosecuted for doing his job. He said: He was always a very jokey bloke. Since he left the army, his life has spiralled out of control; hes an alcoholic, suffers from depression and mood swings. The former paratroopers brother claimed there was one rule for soldiers but another for terrorists, adding: There is imbalance there. They are being held to a higher standard than actual criminals. He said he would be consulting his lawyer. I might try and instigate some legal actions against the Government because he was told to go there, it was his job. Muslim students have berated Chelsea Clinton at a vigil for the victims of the New Zealand mosques massacre, saying she is to blame for the attack. Clinton, who is pregnant with her third child, was attending the vigil at New York University on Friday when senior Leen Dweik began castigating her in an astonishing moment caught on video. 'This right here is the result of a massacre stoked by people like you and the words that you put out into the world,' says Dweik, gesturing to the vigil for the 49 who were killed in Christchurch when a white nationalist shooter stormed two mosques. 'And I want you to know that and I want you to feel that deeply - 49 people died because of the rhetoric you put out there,' Dweik continues, jabbing her index finger toward Clinton as other students snap their fingers in apparent approval of her words. Clinton was attending the vigil at New York University on Friday when a female student began laying into her in an astonishing moment caught on video 'This right here is the result of a massacre stoked by people like you and the words that you put out into the world,' said Dweik People attend a vigil held at NYU Kimmel Center to mourn for the victims of the Christchurch mosque attack in New Zealand, Manhattan on Friday 'I'm so sorry you feel that way,' Clinton responds, only to provoke more ire from the crowd. 'What does "I'm sorry you feel that way" mean? What does that mean?' an unseen male is heard shouting from the crowd. According to NYU student Rose Asaf, who posted the video on Twitter, students at the vigil were angry about Clinton's accusation last month that Rep Ilhan Omar, a Minnesota Democrat, used 'anti-Semitic language and tropes' while criticizing Israel. Omar came under heavy criticism within her own party for her remarks, in which she suggested that money plays a role in U.S. foreign policy toward Israel. Clinton was one of many who condemned Omar's remarks, writing in a tweet: 'We should expect all elected officials, regardless of party, and all public figures to not traffic in anti-Semitism.' Chelsea Clinton (center) watches during the NYU vigil. Some student were angry at her presence though, and berated her for criticizing Muslim Rep. Ilhan Omar Democratic representative from Minnesota Ilhan Omar (left) prepares to address several hundred students at rally outside the US Capitol on Friday Asaf blasted Clinton for her criticism of Omar, saying that the former first daughter had incited a 'mob' against the Muslim congresswoman. 'People havent forgotten the Islamophobic mob she incited against @IlhanMN. There is no sense of responsibility,' wrote Asaf, who identified herself as a 'Jewish leftist' in her Twitter profile. Asaf has served in the NYU student senate as Senator at-Large for Marginalized Jewish Students, Student Activists, and Students With Mental Health Struggles, according to published reports. Asaf wrote in a tweet that Dweik is a 'bold a** palestinian muslim woman' who 'doesn't have anything to apologize for.' Her Twitter account has since been set to private. Rose Asaf, who posted the video, has served in the NYU student senate as Senator at-Large for Marginalized Jewish Students, Student Activists, and Students With Mental Health Struggles A man holds a placard at a vigil on Friday held at NYU Kimmel Center to mourn for the victims of the Christchurch mosque attack in New Zealand Imam Khalid Latif, Muslim Chaplain at NYU speaks at a vigil held at NYU Kimmel Center to mourn for the victims of the Christchurch mosque attack in New Zealand Dweik was tagged in Asaf's post as Twitter user @vivafalastin, whose profile says she is an NYU senior and features the Palestinian flag. Dweik wrote in a Twitter post about the vigil: 'i was on the verge of tears all day today and actually cried on my into and during prayer but the charade of a vigil where more non-muslims than muslims spoke and chelsea clinton was invited made me so viscerally angry and i will not apologize for that.' Dweik was identified in a November article as an Alternate Senator-at-Large for Middle Eastern and North African Students and Documented Non-citizen Students at NYU. A dozen are still in critical condition after Friday's attack in New Zealand, where a heavily armed shooter stormed two mosques, firing indiscriminately in a horror massacre that he broadcast live on Facebook. Australian-born Brenton Tarrant, 28, appeared in court on Saturday to face initial charges in the case. Brenton Tarrant, the accused Christchurch shooter, appears in court on Saturday. He is seen making an 'OK' sign with his hand, which has been adopted as an ironic white power symbol Tarrant, 28, originally from Grafton, New South Wales but more recently a resident of Dunedin on New Zealands South Island, was arrested and charged for the attack He stood in the dock wearing handcuffs and a white prison smock, as the judge read a single murder charge against him. A raft of further charges were expected. Tarrant posted a manifesto online prior to the attack, in which he stated that he was an 'eco-fascist' opposed to Muslim or other immigration to Western countries. He wrote that he hoped the attack would heighten divisions over gun control policy in the U.S., which he speculated would lead to a civil war along political, cultural and racial lines. Tarrant in his writing cited U.S. conservative commentator Candace Owens as the single greatest influence on his radicalization. Owens, who is black, dismissed that claim as 'pointedly absurd' in a statement. Herschel Grynszpan, 17, murdered German diplomat Ernst vom Rath, 29, at the German embassy in Paris in 1938 Trembling uncontrollably with the shock of what he had just done, Herschel Grynszpan, a Jewish teenager, dropped the smoking revolver hed bought a little over an hour earlier on that morning in November 1938. It now lay on the floor of the German embassy in Paris, the price tag of 210 francs still tied on with red string. I dont intend to escape, he told those who grabbed him. As he was led away, he shouted out again and again his defiance: Sales boches! (Filthy krauts!). A few yards away, the victim of the shooting, a young diplomat of the Third Reich by the name of Ernst vom Rath, clutched at his stomach as blood poured from a shattered spleen and a pierced pancreas. He was alive but mortally wounded. Two days later, after an emergency operation failed to save him, he died. His assassination was the pivotal point in a remarkable and little known story of one individual with the temerity to pit himself against the full might of the Nazi regime. A new book tells how, against the odds and in the face of humiliating defeat, he won a sort of victory for which hes rarely been recognised. Brave, self-sacrificing Herschel Grynszpan was the pawn who was exploited by Hitler and his propaganda chief Joseph Goebbels as a tool in their persecution of the Jews. But then, in his own small way, he turned the tables and check-mated them. His was a one-man crusade though, in truth, he could barely be called a man. The self-confessed killer was no more than a kid, really; just 17 and baby-faced, as a photo taken at the scene of the crime shows, hunched in an over-sized trench coat and with the surly stare of an adolescent lost in his own thoughts. Grynszpan told police that he murdered vom Rath because he had picked him up at the Place de la Republique and paid him for sex in a hotel room A thin and frail youngster, he had come to France on his own two years earlier, in 1936, sent away from Germany by his parents who could see all too clearly the foul, anti-Semitic way the wind was blowing under the Nazis. Discriminated against and abused, adult Jews could only leave if they surrendered all their possessions, but children were allowed to go without penalty, so the boy was shipped off to his Uncle Abraham in Paris. But France was not the haven he wished for. He could not get a visa to enter and had to slip across the border as an illegal immigrant. His application for a residence permit was turned down as the French government unwilling to annoy its powerful neighbour and itself riddled with anti-Semitism cracked down on Jewish refugees like him. He couldnt get a job and had to live on a meagre allowance from his uncle. A brooding type, with a hair-trigger temper and a tendency to depression, his mind focused, not unreasonably, on the increasing persecution of what, with tears welling from his eyes, he called my people. Grynszpan's murder therefore became a crime of passion rather than one with political motivations and he avoided a show trial We have a right to exist on this Earth, he insisted, yet if you are a Jew, you . . . are hunted like an animal. With the French police on his tail in order to deport him, he went into hiding, locking himself into a small room in his uncles flat and always on alert for a knock on the door and a demand to see his papers. News came from Germany that his family who originated from Poland had been stripped of all possessions and brutally expelled. With 18,000 others, the Gestapo had rounded them up, transported them by train to the Polish border and dumped them in no-mans-land without money or food. Grynszpan went mad when he heard. The constantly gnawing idea of the suffering of my race obsessed me, he said later. He was determined to hit back in a very public way that would wake up the world to what was being done to Jews. Germanys conduct provoked me beyond measure. I wanted to create a stir. Hed never fired a gun before and the man behind the counter in the shop had to show him how to load and fire it. From there, he made his way on the metro to the German embassy down by the River Seine. He told the receptionist he had important documents to deliver to one of the senior diplomats and was shown into an office where vom Rath was sitting in a leather chair. Youre a filthy kraut! he shouted at the top of his voice as he pulled out the pistol from and fired five shots. Then he waited, unresisting, for his chance to tell the world why he had done it and thereby expose the evils of the Nazis. Brave, foolhardy, naive, self-sacrificial, suicidal: his action was all those things. But Grynszpan had made his point. Except that it instantly backfired. He got publicity all right but not the sort he wanted. In Germany, Hitler was planning a nationwide terror attack on Jewish properties, to be disguised as a spontaneous outpouring of disgust at World Jewry by the people. The assassination in Paris was just the pretext that he and Goebbels were looking for. A trial date was set in May 1942, but as the time approached, the Nazi hierarchy grew increasingly uneasy. Goebbels conveyed his grave doubts to a rattled Hitler, who had his closest henchman, Martin Bormann, announce that the trial was postponed to an indefinite date and Grynszpan had his victory Herschel Grynszpan would be their unwitting scapegoat The expert Nazi propaganda machine went into top gear, hailing vom Rath as a hero and a martyr for the cause (which was a lie, as privately he likened Hitler to the Antichrist). His assassination by a Jew had to be avenged. The shots in Paris will not go unpunished, screamed Nazi party newspapers. News of vom Raths death on November 9 unleashed what became known as Kristallnacht the night of broken glass. Hitlers brown-shirted thugs went on the rampage, ransacking and burning down thousands of Jewish-owned businesses and synagogues and randomly beating Jews. As the state-sponsored terror spread around the country, hundreds of Jews were killed and injured; 30,000 were rounded up and sent to concentration camps. When, in his prison cell in Paris, he heard what had been done in retaliation for his crime, a grieving Grynszpan was devastated. The thought that I caused this catastrophe brings me closer to madness, he wrote in despair to a friend. Vom Raths state funeral attended by the Fuhrer and broadcast live on the radio wound up German indignation to breaking point, as Hitler and Goebbels had intended. And perhaps, they plotted, there was an even greater propaganda victory to be won. Nazi investigators set about trying to assemble evidence that he had not acted alone as he claimed, but was part of a Jewish-led world conspiracy. Once proven, this, they reasoned, could be presented as the Jews declaring war on Germany and justification for the ultimate sanction being planned for them all: extermination in the death camps. Meanwhile, Grynszpan faced a murder trial and the possibility of the guillotine. Frightened as any 17-year-old would be, he was still defiant and welcomed his day in court to have his say and damn the Nazis to the world. That day never came. Grynszpan languished in prison for 20 months, during which time the outbreak of war in 1939 pitched France against Germany. In Berlin, he had not been forgotten. He still topped the wanted list, and a special Gestapo unit eventually tracked him down to a prison in Toulouse, where hed been evacuated by the French. He expected instant execution a bullet or a noose. Instead, he was flown to Berlin and a basement cell in the Gestapos headquarters, where he was surprisingly well-treated. Not a hair on his head was to be harmed, for now. He was to be the star of a show trial which would demonstrate that the Jews were the aggressors, not the Nazis, who had acted simply to protect themselves. This, Hitler was assured, would strangle any foreign compassion for the Jews and justify his policy of exterminating them. The intention, says author Stephen Koch, was that the Final Solution the Holocaust, as it came to be known would be legitimised. When he realised he was being kept alive solely with some major propaganda purpose in mind, at the end of which he would likely be publicly hanged or beheaded, Grynszpan dedicated himself to preventing that show trial from happening. At 17, he had wanted to make the whole world aware of his plight: now, he sought invisibility. The tactic he adopted was one that had been suggested to him during his incarceration in Paris. To get off the murder charge, his clever French lawyer told him, he should claim that his victim, the handsome but unmarried vom Rath, was a cruising homosexual who had picked him up on the streets and corrupted him. Thats why he had shot him a crime passionel not a political one. The very idea apparently baffled Grynszpan, an innocent in sexual matters. It had to be explained to him what a homosexual was (and did), and when he was told he laughed at what he saw as the absurdity of it. He rejected the idea at the time, but now, two years down the line and in German custody, it seemed to him to be an excellent story to tell in court and cause maximum embarrassment to the Nazis. The martyr and hero vom Rath exposed as a pervert? That would undermine any show trial and might even prevent a trial taking place at all. So this was the new and tacky story he spun to his interrogators; that the 29-year-old diplomat had picked him up in the Place de la Republique and taken him to a seedy hotel for sex. Money had changed hands. Afterwards, Grynszpan was ashamed and disgusted and wanted to end the liaison but he was constantly stalked until, out of exasperation, he went to the embassy to confront vom Rath. There, tempers flared, insults were exchanged and he took out his revolver and shot him. In a further elaboration later, he said vom Rath had promised that, in return for sex, he would protect Grynszpans family in Germany, but then they were deported. That was another reason he killed him. It was all a lie and the young mans Nazi interrogators knew it. When told what his defence would be in open court, Goebbels railed at the story as absurd and insolent and, in his twisted logic, typical of squalid Jewish duplicity. But dare he risk letting the story be aired in public and leaving a doubt in peoples minds? Allegations of vom Raths homosexuality would doubtless hog international headlines and, worse, muddy the waters of a Jewish plot. One solution was for the court to go into secret session, thereby excluding the Press, to hear Grynszpans testimony. But then the whole idea of convincing foreign observers that his actions were part of a Jewish world conspiracy would be compromised. A trial date was set in May 1942, but as the time approached, the Nazi hierarchy grew increasingly uneasy. Goebbels conveyed his grave doubts to a rattled Hitler, who had his closest henchman, Martin Bormann, announce that the trial was postponed to an indefinite date. Herschel Grynszpan had his victory. The manoeuvres of one insignificant but clever Jewish boy, as Koch puts it, had stymied the Third Reich. Hed been used as an excuse for Kristallnacht but managed to avoid being presented to the world as a justification for an even bigger crime: the wholesale slaughter of millions of his people. The callow youth now a man in his 20s probably never realised hed won the duel of wits with his Nazi captors. All he was told was that the trial had been postponed but he had every reason to think it would eventually happen. His precise fate is unknown. The best guess is that he was put to death in the autumn of 1942, probably in Sachsenhausen concentration camp. His Gestapo minders came there to get him, ostensibly to shift him to another camp. But there was speculation among the other inmates that this was a fake transport and he was instead driven to Sachsenhausens execution block and disposed of. His name had made headlines for the slaying at the German embassy, his face staring out from front pages around the world. He died in obscurity but the fact remains that he outsmarted them all. Hitler's Scapegoat by Stephen Koch is published by Amberley, 20. Stephen Koch 2019. To order a copy for 16 (offer valid to 23/3/19; p&p free), visit www.mailshop.co.uk/books or call 0844 571 0640. Two hares appear to high-five each other as they tussle in the snow in freezing conditions. Moments before their high five, one of the Arctic hares discovered a good source of food as it was digging beneath the surface. The hare was then forced to defend its prize from its hungry friend and the pair broke out in a scrap. Amateur photographer Jonas Beyer, 30, took this image of two Arctic hares fighting one another in Thule, Greenland- but it appears they are high-fiving each other. The animals rely on their thick coats to keep warm and for camouflage As the two hares fought with their front paws, it looked as if they high-fived. Amateur photographer Jonas Beyer braved temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius in Thule, Greenland, to capture these images. The 30-year-old, who is from Denmark but lives in Greenland, said: 'It was really funny, it looked like they were celebrating with a high-five. The animals, pictured above in the winter sun, can reach speeds of up to 40mph to escape from predators. The photographer braved temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius to capture these images 'When I saw I had captured that moment I was really happy. 'The hares were digging in the snow to find food below. When a hare gets a good spot they eat as quickly as possible because other hares will try to steal the better area and it leads to a fight. 'It was amazing to see the hares in this environment, it was -10 degrees Celsius but they were still running around. 'Nothing is better than being in the right spot at the right time and just observing nature.' Arctic hares rely on their thick coats to keep warm and for camouflage. They can reach speeds of up to 40mph to escape from predators. A reality television show that features nine extraordinary people living under one roof, including a bearded lady and a man who wants to become a parrot, has raised questions over whether its subjects are being exploited. For the three-part show, titled The House of Extraordinary People, the group will spend 10 days in a Yorkshire cottage and get to know one another. It has been billed by Channel 5 as a vehicle to 'confront prejudices', focusing on the struggles of those who face daily judgement on their appearance and forcing them to confront their greatest fears. But some equality groups have expressed concern that it could tip over into exploitation. Ted Parrotman, Bashir Aziz, Harnaam Kaur, Kristin Riley (front), Aly Stosz, Rowdy Burton (front), Rachael Reynolds, Dan Cooper, Lucas Hayward. With varying differences and conditions the nine inhabitants of The House of Extraordinary People will live together in Yorkshire for 10 days Danielle Wootton, Head of Marketing at disability charity Scope, said: 'We hope that this programme is inclusive and gives disabled people a positive platform where the public can hear their voices, and gain a greater understanding of their lives. 'But there is a fine line to tread between insight and understanding, and voyeurism and exploitation. 'We'd like everyone in the media to become Disability Gamechangers, and actively challenge negative perceptions and attitudes towards disabled people in everything they do.' The first episode of the three-part series will be on Monday night at 10pm. Bashir Aziz, 24, who works as a sales assistant and model in London, used to be called 'zebra' and 'cow' by bullies because of his skin condition Sales assistant and model Bashir Aziz, 24, will be joining the other eight people in the house. He has the skin condition vitiligo which causes pale white patches to appear on his skin. Bashir was bullied at school by kids calling him 'cow' and 'zebra', but now spreads body positivity messages to his thousands of followers on Instagram. He said he is proud of his marks and embraces them to help other people who are different. Last year, he even said he was 'saddened' when he noticed some of his white marks were disappearing. Dan Cooper had his healthy lower left leg amputated after he had an overwhelming desire to carry out the procedure A man who decided to have a healthy leg amputated will also join the group. Dan Cooper, 74, from Wyoming, travelled to Thailand to have his lower left leg amputated. He has body integrity disorder, which means he has an overwhelming desire to amputate a healthy limb. Dan said he had no regrets about the procedure and would not consider himself disabled. Harnaam Kaur, 27, won a Guinness World Record for being the youngest female to grow a beard at the age of 24 years and 282 days. She has polycystic ovarian syndrome which can cause higher levels of male hormones A female catwalk model and motivational speaker will also be on the show because she can grow a beard. Harnaam Kaur, 27, from Slough, holds the Guinness World Record for the youngest female to grow a full beard at the age of 24 years and 282 days. She has the condition polycystic ovarian syndrome, which can cause high levels of male hormones in a woman's body. It can also lead to irregular periods and enlarged ovaries, which contain fluid-filled sacs that surround eggs in the organ. Harnaam has 134,000 Instagram followers and describes herself online as a 'social activist', a positive influencer, and 'Queen of #beardgang'. Kristen Riley, 36, and from the US, is three foot five inches tall because she was born with the condition microcephalic osteodysplastic primordial dwarfism. She works as an activities coordinator in a care home Also on the show is Kristen Riley, who is three foot and five inches tall. The 36-year-old, who works as an activities coordinator in a care home, didn't grow taller as she was born with the condition microcephalic osteodysplastic primordial dwarfism type II. Kristen, from the US, said people often stare at her because of her height. She is also one of the oldest people in the world with the condition. Aly Stosz, 29, is one of the tallest women in the world standing at six foot and nine inches One of the tallest women in the world will also appear on Channel 5's programme. Aly Stosz, 29, who stands at six foot nine inches, said she has taken part to show other women it is okay not to fit into traditional beauty moulds. She also says its hard not to go unnoticed in a crowd being her height. Her sister Amanda said on Aly's website that her younger sister 'is within the 99.9 percentile for height in the world. 'Only 0.1 per cent of people are in her height group.' Aly, who has 6,000 followers on Instagram, uses the name @humongouslife. A woman who has benign growths on her body will also be appearing on Channel 5's show The House of Extraordinary People A mother-of-three has had multiple plastic surgeries to remove tumours after they got worse following each pregnancy. Rachael Reynolds, 43, gets benign tumours growing all over her body. The condition, called neurofibromatosis, has led her to worry about her outward appearance leading her to have several surgeries to remove the lumps and laser treatment. However, the lumps continue to appear and, she said, got worse after each pregnancy. It is a genetic condition that usually appears in childhood, according to the Mayo Clinic. Rowdy Burton, 31, from Alabama, had both legs amputated when he was just three years old due to genetic condition sacral agenesis The group will also be joined by a man who had both legs amputated when he was a toddler. Rowdy Burton, 31, from Alabama, had both of his legs amputated at the age of three due to the genetic condition sacral agenesis. He now walks on his hands or uses a motorised skateboard to get around. When he had the amputation, Rowdy said he was bullied at school. But, rather than having a wheelchair, he chose to get around on his hands and even managed to play tennis. Ted Parrotman, who had his name changed from Ted Richards, got 110 tattoo feathers and 50 piercings so that he could look more like his five pet parrots An extreme animal-lover who decided he wanted to look like his pet parrots will also be on the programme. Ted Parrotman, who had his name changed from Ted Richards, took the decision to get the tattoos and piercings thanks to his pet birds. He has 110 tattoos of feathers on his body and 50 piercings to help him look the part. Ted even had his ears removed and tongue split to help him further resemble the birds. He shares his Bristol home with five parrots called Ellie, Teaka, Timneh, Jake, and Bubi, as well as a South American green iguana Iggy and a bull terrier called Candy. Lucas Hayward, 22, has undergone multiple surgeries after he was born with a facial disfigurement A roofer and anti-bullying campaigner who was born with a disfigured face will also be joining the other eight in the house. Lucas Hayward, 22, has undergone numerous surgeries to alter his appearance. He had the facial condition oculo-auriculo-fronto-nasal syndrome, which causes the face to overdevelop. Lucas has also undergone plastic surgery to 'normalise' his appearance. He hopes that by appearing on the show, he can show viewers that personality is much more important than the way you look. A camouflage-clad man who was arrested near to the scene of the mosques massacre in New Zealand claims he was wrongfully apprehended by authorities. Stephen Millar, 30, said he plans to seek compensation after he was mistakenly detained by police who were in the midst of dealing with the horrific attack, which took place on the country's south island. Mr Millar had just arrived at Papanui High School, around a ten minute drive from the Al Noor mosque, to pick up his 13-year-old brother-in-law when he was held by police. Stephen Millar (pictured) said he plans to seek compensation after he was mistakenly detained by police. He claims a police officer pointed a gun 'in his face' and demanded he get on the ground before he was arrested and put in a car. 'I looked up at the cop and he said "look at me again and I will shoot you", I had no weapons on me. They had me on my knees, they had a gun in my face,' Mr Millar told The New Zealand Herald. 'I said "I've done nothing wrong", they said I was an idiot for wearing camouflage clothing,' he added. When the situation was eventually resolved Mr Millar, who said he'd been dressing in camouflage clothing since he was a child, claims he received a verbal warning 'for stupidity'. The image shows a man being taken away from the shooting scene on a stretcher by medical staff The image shows the police trying to move people away from the scene outside the mosque He added the police allegedly called it 'disorderly behaviour'. 'I still don't understand how I was doing disorderly behaviour for wearing the wrong thing in the wrong place at the wrong time,' he added. The police have since spoken out to defend their actions. A spokesperson said due to the timing of the incident, which was 'immediately after the massacre' police had been responding to numerous reports which were 'potentially related to the unfolding situation'. In a statement released to Daily Mail Australia, a police spokesperson confirmed there was a 'heightened police presence' in most of the Christchurch area as part of the response to the terrorist attack. 'As you will no doubt be aware there is a heightened police presence and increased patrols in most areas of Christchurch as part of our response to the terrorist attack and there will be for some time,' the statement read. 'As the Prime Minister stated yesterday, this has been designated a terrorist attack. 'Our response yesterday was in the early stages and we were obviously looking closely to build a picture of any of the individuals involved and all of their activities prior to this horrific event. 'This was a fluid, fast, live and evolving situation. 'Police were responding to a multitude of reports potentially related to the unfolding situation,' the spokesperson stated. The spokesperson also warned all New Zealanders to remain 'extra vigilant'. 'There is no guarantee the risk is limited to Canterbury and we need all New Zealanders to be extra vigilant. Police are also vigilant and will respond appropriately to requests for service such as this. 'Our entire focus remains on managing the situation and supporting the community in Christchurch and protecting the citizens of New Zealand,' the statement concluded. Middle class parents whose offspring have been rejected by Oxford and Cambridge universities have used Freedom of Information Act requests to find out why the reasons for their childs failure, it has been claimed. Pushy middle-class mothers and fathers are requesting detailed feedback on their sons and daughters exam performance, interviews and the reasons an offer wasnt made. A source close to Cambridge admissions told the Times: Freedom of information has given them (parents) another weapon to find out why an offer wasnt made, and more are using it to access information. Pushy middle-class mothers and fathers are requesting detailed feedback on their sons and daughters exam performance, interviews and the reasons an offer wasnt made [File photo] There are only a fixed number of places on offer and competition has become more fierce as numbers applying have gone up. The claims were made as Oxford and Cambridge Universities face growing pressure to let in greater numbers of students from diverse backgrounds. Private school head teachers have suggested that the desire to recruit a wider pool of students has made wealthy parents anxious. One leading head told the newspaper: People are becoming more aware of universities using contextual data and this is leading to the perception that some students are starting to be reverse discriminated against. The claims were made as Oxford and Cambridge Universities face growing pressure to let in greater numbers of students from diverse backgrounds. Oxford University's Merton College is pictured above [File photo] At some point there will undoubtedly be legal challenges and if one of them is successful the floodgates will open. Requests are increasing at all schools. The real game changer was tuition fees. Now, higher education has become hugely expensive... this means there is an increasing focus on the subjects studied and on the status of the university. Add to this the increasing willingness to seek personal information and to make comparisons, and you have a bit of a perfect storm. Universities will need to be absolutely sure that their admissions policies and practice stand up to legal scrutiny. Helen Pike, head of the 18,000-a-year Magdalen College School, Oxford, whose pupils managed to secure an impressive 46 offers from Oxbridge colleges this year, said both universities had complied with requests from parents of children who were rejected and sent them feedback. But she added: Feedback culture is a drain on organisations. The burden cumulatively outweighs the benefit to the individual in my view. Parents will be keen to have it - but should they be? And theres the question of how frank/truthful it will be. Private school head teachers have suggested that the desire to recruit a wider pool of students has made wealthy parents anxious. Cambridge University's Clare and King's College is pictured above [File photo] Theres a danger of inventing spurious negative reasons why people dont succeed when often candidates were quite deserving and perfectly worthy of a place but in a strong field. Another teacher from a leading school added: Requests for feedback are becoming more intense from all prospective students. There have also been periodic calls for test scores to be not only released but subject to appeal. In asking what has been flagged, some applicants might reasonably be checking for factual inaccuracy. Cambridge last week announced it will take on poorer students who do better than expected in their A-levels. The scheme will be open to all students from disadvantaged backgrounds who applied in the autumn and narrowly missed out on an offer. It is estimated around 100 spots will be available when the initiative starts this summer - providing a second chance for those with exceptional A-level results. Oxford and Cambridge both told The Times they complied with requests for feedback on applicants. Members of one of New Zealand's most notorious street gangs have been captured consoling each other after the Christchurch terror attack as Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern met families of the victims. Authorities have confirmed that 49 people died in the mosque massacre on Friday while at least 40 people were treated in hospital for their injuries - with 11 still critical. Mourners have gathered across New Zealand and the globe to honour the worshippers, who were defenceless when they were allegedly shot at by Australian citizen Brenton Tarrant. Members of the Mongrel Mob descended at Hagley College, in Christchurch, where Jacinda Ardern arrived at about 1pm to greet hundreds of survivors, family members and mourners. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaks with a woman during a visit to the Canterbury Refugee Centre in Christchurch Members of the Mongrel Mob (pictured) descended at Hagley College, in Christchurch, where Jacinda Ardern arrived at about 1pm to greet hundreds of survivors, family members and mourners Ms Ardern hugs a member of Christchurch's Muslim community on Saturday afternoon Ms Ardern, who then visited Canterbury Refugee Centre in Christchurch, wore a black headscarf to pay her respect. She told reporters on Saturday afternoon that authorities were focusing on returning victims to their families so they could properly mourn. The Prime Minister spoke with families at Hagley Park who were desperately trying to locate their missing relatives. 'Hagley Park, very much the focus on them was being able to access their loved ones,' she said. 'Front of mind for them, of course, is fulfilling their religious expectations and that is burial.' Ms Ardern had also spoken with Muslim leaders at the refugee centre. Ms Ardern, who visited Canterbury Refugee Centre in Christchurch, wore a black headscarf to pay her respect Ms Ardern had also spoken with Muslim leaders at the refugee centre Ms Ardern spoke to a number of survivors who shared their experiences, including one man who said a bullet scraped him Mongrel Mob are an organised street gang in New Zealand based across the country 'At the meeting at the refugee centre, their community leaders shared the same sentiment that has come through from New Zealanders generally that,' she said. 'This is not the New Zealand they know.' 'This is not the New Zealand that has welcomed them and that it is not a reflection of the New Zealand they know, and that sentiment came through very strongly.' Ms Ardern spoke to a number of survivors who shared their experiences, including one man who said a bullet scraped him. Mongrel Mob are an organised street gang in New Zealand based across the country. The street gang were dressed in jackets, vests and t-shirts with the mongrel logo. They are seen greeting other mourners at Hagley College on Saturday afternoon. Jacinda Ardern will now visit the hospital where 39 people are receiving treatment. The street gang was seen dressed in jackets, vests and t-shirts with the mongrel logo A global security expert slammed New Zealand authorities over Christchurch's mosque massacre on Friday. Joe Siracusa branded the attack that killed 49 people a 'catastrophic failure of intelligence'. Prof Siracusa told A Current Affair it was 'absolutely unbelievable' that accused gunman Brenton Tarrant wasn't being monitored. 'I wonder if he was on an Australian watchlist and they didn't send the file over to New Zealand,' he said. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has since stated that the people arrested in relation to the attack were not on any terrorism watch lists. Prof Siracusa wondered how Tarrant was able to broadcast his intentions on social media, including links to white supremacy groups and images of guns in the lead up to the attacks as well as releasing a 73-page manifesto. He also raised his concerns over the fact that Tarrant wasn't a lone-wolf in the attacks and that he was working with other people and still wasn't reported. Global security expert Joe Siracusa said that New Zealand and perhaps Australia had many questions to answer after labeling mosque massacre a 'catastrophic failure of intelligence' 'Every time the terrorists are successful, beginning from 9/11 to the current day, it means there's an intelligence failure,' he added. These comments were mirrored by Security expert Dr Paul Buchanan in New Zealand, who said the prioritisation to prevent extremist Islamic ideologies left white supremacist group threats slip under the radar. '[The Government] simply did not think a white supremacist could be capable of this and hence paid much less attention and red flags emanating from these guys,' he told Stuff. '[The Government] certainly weren't complacent monitoring the Muslim community, but something has got to give in a world of finite resources.' 'If you're going to squeeze the balloon in one direction it is going to lose air in another ... we seem to have dropped the ball on violent white supremacists,' he added. Prosecutors in Bulgaria have launched a probe into Tarrant's recent visit to the country. He visited Bulgaria from November 9-15 last year claiming he wanted 'to visit historical sites and study the history of the Balkan country', according to Bulgaria's public prosecutor Sotir Tsatsarov. Tsatsarov said he hoped the inquiry would establish if this was 'correct or if he had other objectives'. Turkish border authorities are also examining two trips by Tarrant to the country in 2016, CCTV footage capturing him walking through the airport in March, 2016. A senior Turkish official says Tarrant spent an 'extended period of time in the country' across multiple trips. He says the suspect may have also traveled to countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa. The official says an investigation is underway of 'the suspect's movements and contacts within the country'. Prof Siracusa says he finds it 'absolutely unbelievable' that Tarrant (pictured in trial) wasn't on any terror watchlists yet was able to freely vent his white supremacist views on social media The New Zealand terrorism watch list is complied together by the New Zealand Security Intelligence Agency. The list is made up of 30 to 40 people are seen as a potential threat to New Zealand's national security. According to the report, the majority of names flagged during 2017-2018 were linked to ISIS. Brenton Tarrant, 28, appeared in Christchurch District Court where he was charged with murder on Saturday, after he allegedly stormed two mosques, opening fire with a semi-automatic shotgun and a rifle on about 100 defenseless people attending Friday prayers. Tarrant live-streamed the 17-minute attack on Facebook. Another two people believed to have been involved in the attack remain in custody. Michael Anthony Thigpen, 34, was sentenced Thursday in Logan County Circuit Court after pleaded guilty to manslaughter and assault charges A Kentucky man whose five-month-old daughter died after being left in a van with two other small children in 2016 has been sentenced to 10 months in prison. Michael Anthony Thigpen, 34, of Brandenburg, Kentucky, received his sentence inside Logan County Circuit Court in Russellville, Kentucky on Thursday after pleading guilty to manslaughter and assault charges. Authorities said Thigpen's baby daughter, Emma Grace Thigpen, died of hyperthermia, also known as heat stroke, on June 10, 2016 after her dad left her and her two toddler sisters in the van he parked outside the trailer home where Thigpen was staying in Auburn, Kentucky. The other two unidentified girls, who were 18 months and two years old at the time, were later hospitalized for heat-related problems as well, according to the Bowling Green Daily News. An investigation determined Thigpen had been awake for a total of 24 hours, driving an Uber and taking his wife to work, before returning to the Auburn dwelling with the three children. Emma Grace Thigpen (pictured) died of hyperthermia on June 10, 2016, after her father left her in a van for several hours The three children were found unresponsive in a trailer at the park by EMS. Authorities testifying during previous court hearings said Thigpen originally claimed he'd left the children sleeping in one room of the trailer when the room's air conditioner unit lost power. An investigator testified that Thigpen eventually confessed to leaving the girls in the vehicle, blaming his lack of sleep for the mistake. Christchurch's Muslim population faced a daunting task on Saturday as they worked to prepare for 49 Islamic funerals. Workers used heavy machinery to prepare at least a dozen graves at a cemetery near Christchurch on Saturday afternoon, ahead of the unprecedented number of burials due in the coming hours. They moved swiftly to stay in line with the Islamic custom that dictates the deceased should be buried within 24 hours of their passing. But local Islamic leaders have admitted they have never seen a burial quite like this. Scroll down for video Workers used heavy machinery to prepare at least a dozen graves at a Christchurch cemetery on Saturday afternoon (pictured) ahead of an unprecedented number of Islamic burials They moved swiftly to stay in line with the Islamic custom that dictates the deceased should be buried within 24 hours of their passing (pictured, confirmed victim Haji Daoud Nabi) But local Islamic leaders have admitted they have never seen a burial quite like this (confirmed victim, Naeem Rashid) The grim photos show the daunting task facing Christchurch's Muslim population - preparing for 49 Islamic funerals while still trying to come to terms with the horrific terror attack 'They (the community) is in shock, having to sit down and plan 49 funerals,' Dr Zain Ali, an Islamic expert at Auckland University, told Daily Mail Australia. 'They're just coming to terms with the death of these people. A message went out saying "we need help organising this" people are just not in a frame of mind'. A Christchurch Council spokesman has confirmed that 'the council is currently in the process of getting plots ready'. The local Muslim community is struggling to come to with the scale of the tragedy and their grief is visible everywhere. In the city hundreds have left floral tributes and written messages on the pavement at the Masjid Al Noor mosque, where the first shooting occurred on Friday afternoon. One mourner, Nadia Edmond, 18, wept as she laid flowers, saying she and the city's young people would not stand for 'this hatred'. Islamic custom dictates that the deceased should be buried within 24 hours of their death Nadia Edmond (pictured), 18, wept as she laid flowers, saying she and the city's young people would not stand for 'this hatred' 'No matter how much we've been through we're simply not going to stand for this hatred that's happened yesterday,' Nadia said 'The reason why I am so emotional today - almost heavy tears - is you see almost everyone in Christchurch uniting together. 'No matter how much we've been through we're simply not going to stand for this hatred that's happened yesterday. 'I was pleasantly surprised with the youth of Christchurch how they all came together even through social media, saying that 'we're not going to stand for this.' 'We're not going to be the generation to let this kind of thing happening in the future. 'And we need to be accepting of everyone, because no matter who they are they are a part of us,' she said, her father Neil by her side. Local residents leave floral tributes at Deans Avenue near the Al Noor Mosque on March 16, 2019 in Christchurch, New Zealand. At least 49 people are confirmed dead Floral tributes are left before dawn at Deans Avenue near the Al Noor Mosque on March 16, 2019 in Christchurch, New Zealand '(Christchurch) is a safe place and this has almost taken Christchurch's innocence. 'I don't think any of us are going to grow up and live with the safety that we're used to.' As for the city's Islamic community, she wanted them to know: 'They are so loved'. 'And this should never have happened to them'. The grandmother of a white supremacist gunman reacted with disbelief after learning the 'good boy' she saw last Christmas could have murdered 50 people. Joyce Tarrant, 94, said the cold-blooded killer who filmed himself calmly gunning down Muslims during Friday prayers was not the grandson she knew. Self-confessed terrorist Brenton Harrison Tarrant, 28, faced a New Zealand court on Saturday charged with murder a day after his rampage through two mosques. Flanked by two much taller armed security officers, Tarrant smiled faintly as he stood behind a small glass barrier which came up just above his eyes, flashing a white supremacist hand sign. The news of his alleged attacks came as a shock to the family, particularly to Brenton's mother Sharon, who was in class teaching a double-period of English when her son allegedly went on his shooting rampage. The family's reaction to the massacres come as foreign border authorities reveal they're investigating his travels through Bulgaria, North Korea and Turkey. Scroll down for video Brenton Harrison Tarrant (pictured in North Korea), 28, from Grafton, NSW, was a 'good boy' who most recently came home to visit his family at Christmas, according to his grandmother Joyce Tarrant, 94, said the cold-blooded killer who filmed himself calmly gunning down Muslims during Friday prayers was not the grandson she knew Chilling photos show blood soaked survivors emerging from the Linwood Mosque just minutes after Brenton Harrison Tarrant allegedly opened fire After receiving calls from journalists on Friday afternoon, the Maclean High School teacher had to be pulled out of class and told of her son's alleged act. It is believed that Tarrant's sister Lauren has gone into hiding alongside Sharon after being interviewed by counter-terrorism police on Friday. Daily Mail Australia witnessed Sharon's pet dog left on the family's front porch near a pair of empty food bowls. The shooter's family approached police as soon as they recognised his face on TV coverage of the attacks, NSW officers said on Saturday. His grandmother Joyce said Tarrant visited his family in Grafton, in northern NSW, twice a year, most recently at Christmas. 'It's all very shocking, especially [it being] Brenton, he's a good boy,' she told Daily Mail Australia. 'He was always nice and kind and was sure to visit us twice a year.' A young Tarrant is seen being held in the arms of his father Rodney, who died in 2010, and next to his mother Sharon Bloodied survivors were seen near the mosques, with many holding each other in solidarity Tarrant's travel through Turkey in 2016 is being investigated by local border authorities. Pictured is CCTV footage of Tarrant in Istanbul's Ataturk Airport in March, 2016 Joyce said the whole family was struggling with the news. 'We're just doing the best we can,' she said at the door of her weatherboard house under the huge bridge that links Grafton's north and south. Joyce said her grandson showed no signs of extremist ideology when she last spoke with him. Elsewhere in the riverbank town of about 22,000 people, locals were uneasy being at the centre of international attention. Grafton is famous for its picturesque jacaranda trees, but now also for the evil that grew up there. 'This has put Grafton on the map, but not in a good way. We had enough to worry about,' one local said. Tarrant had travelled across Europe and Asia following the death of his father, visiting nations including North Korea, Pakistan and Bulgaria. It's rumoured he developed some of his extremist views while travelling Tarrant grew up in a picture-perfect house (shown above) in Grafton in the Northern River region of Australia's New South Wales 'Tears, shock horror and shame that such evil is associated with not only our country but our home town, another said. 'I feel so terrible for the people and families affected by this evil act of terrorism.' Tarrant attended a local high school and then worked as a personal trainer at the local Big River Squash and Fitness Centre from 2010. But following his father Rodney's death after a battle with cancer, he allegedly began to turn towards extremism. A woman who knew Tarrant through the gym said before his father's death he had never spoken about religion or his beliefs. 'From the conversations we had about life he didn't strike me as someone who had any interest in that or extremist views,' she said. Tarrant was described by those who knew him in his hometown as an avid traveller. He is pictured here in his Year 9 yearbook photo Tarrant previously worked as a personal trainer at Big River Squash and Fitness Centre in his hometown of Grafton. 'But I know he's been travelling since he left Grafton. He has been travelling overseas, anywhere and everywhere. 'I would say it's something in the nature of his travels, something he's been around. 'I know he's been to lots of different countries trying to experience lots of different things in life and I would say something's happened in that time in his travels.' Prosecutors in Bulgaria have launched a probe into Tarrant's recent visit to the country. He visited Bulgaria from November 9-15 last year claiming he wanted 'to visit historical sites and study the history of the Balkan country', according to Bulgaria's public prosecutor Sotir Tsatsarov. Tsatsarov said he hoped the inquiry would establish if this was 'correct or if he had other objectives'. Turkish border authorities are also examining two trips by Tarrant to the country in 2016, CCTV footage capturing him walking through the airport in March, 2016. A senior Turkish official says Tarrant spent an 'extended period of time in the country' across multiple trips. He says the suspect may have also traveled on to countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa. The official says an investigation is underway of 'the suspect's movements and contacts within the country'. Timeline of terror: How the Christchurch shootings unfolded Friday March 15, 1.30pm local time (12.30am GMT): Gunman identifying himself as Brenton Tarrant live-streams mass shooting inside the Al Noor Mosque as Friday prayers are underway. The Bangladesh cricket team were on their way to the mosque at the time. 1.42pm: Police respond to reports of shots fired in central Christchurch. People are urged to stay indoors and report any suspicious behaviour. Shortly afterwards, all schools in the city are placed into lockdown. 1.49pm: Gunman believed to have travelled to Linwood Masjid Mosque, where he shot dead seven people. 2.10pm: Police confirm they are attending an 'evolving situation' involving an 'active shooter' 2.18pm: Hero cops detain gunman in dramatic roadside arrest, captured on camera by passing motorist. 3.30pm: Two explosive devices attached to a car are found and disarmed by a bomb squad at Strickland Street, not far from the Al Noor Mosque. 4pm: One person confirmed to be in custody. New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush says there have been 'multiple fatalities' at two locations - both mosques. Mosques across New Zealand urged to shut their doors. 4.10pm: Prime minister Jacinda Ardern calls it 'one of New Zealand's darkest days'. 5.30pm: Mr Bush says three men and one woman are in custody. Australian prime minister Scott Morrison confirms one of those arrested is Australian. 7.30pm: Ms Ardern says 40 are dead and more than 20 are seriously injured but confirms the offender is in custody National security threat level is lifted from low to high. 7.45pm: Britomart train station in central Auckland is evacuated after bags are found unattended. The bags were deemed not suspicious. 9pm: Death toll rises to 49 and Police Commissioner Bush reveals a man in his late 20s has been charged with murder. Police are not looking for any named or identified suspects, he says, but adds that it would be 'wrong to assume that there is no-one else'. 11.50pm: Investigation extends 240 miles to the south where homes are evacuated around a 'location of interest' in Dunedin. Advertisement New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern called Friday one of New Zealand's 'darkest days' 'He was very dedicated to his own training and to training others,' she said. 'He threw himself into his own personal training and then qualified as a trainer and trained others. He was very good.' 'When I say he was dedicated, he was dedicated more than most people would be. 'He was in the gym for long periods of time, lifting heaving weights. He pretty much transformed his body.' Tarrant faced Christchurch District Court on Saturday morning where he was charged with one count of murder. Flanked by two much taller armed security officers, Tarrant smiled faintly as he stood behind a small glass barrier which came up just above his eyes. From behind a glass window he made a white power gesture to those inside the court room. Police allege that after opening fire inside the Al Noor Mosque Tarrant drove to the Linwood Masjid Mosque across town and continued his rampage. Accused Christchurch massacre gunman Brenton Harrison Tarrant (pictured) made a white power gesture from behind a glass window, during a brief appearance in court Flanked by two much taller armed security officers, Tarrant smiled faintly as he stood behind a small glass barrier which came up just above his eyes. Police allege that Tarrant began his shooting rampage at the Al Noor Masjid Mosque in the city's east, before driving across town to the Linwood Masjid Mosque and again opening fire Short of stature with a stocky build, with thinning hair and beady brown eyes, Tarrant stood squarely in place throughout the entire hearing. He swivelled his torso around to repeatedly glance at the media, at District Court Judge Paul Kaller and out the windows of the Christchurch District Court. At the beginning of the hearing he appeared to have a faint smile on his face, but it faded into a neutral expression as the hearing continued. He has been charged with one count of murder but police say many more charges are expected to be laid when he appears in the High Court on April 5. The hearing was over within minutes, with Tarrant taking one final look at those gathered and marched away. Victims' relatives gathered out the front of the courthouse, telling stories of their lost loved ones. Hundreds have taken to the streets near the mosques to march and pay tribute to the victims Candlelit vigils took place across the world, with hundreds paying respect in Christchurch Among mourners were members of the New Zealand Police who responded to Friday's attacks The names of victims of the twin shootings were written on hearts and strung through the streets of Christchurch 50 candles have been lit out the front of Christchurch Hospital - one for each victim who died Following the mass-shooting on Friday, a mourner helped light 49 candles outside the hospital At least 200 anxious relatives remain at the doors of Christchurch Hospital, where dozens of injured victims remain. Of the 36 people still in hospital beds, 11 are in intensive care, fighting for life. A dozen operating theatres were open through the night on Friday, with many requiring multiple life-saving surgeries. One victim was as young as two years old. One of the surgeons on shift Friday night called the day's events 'carnage'. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern echoed the sentiment, saying Friday was 'one of New Zealand's darkest days'. She also revealed that her office was one of 70 recipients of the gunman's twisted manifesto, in which he outlined his intentions ten minutes before driving to Al Noor mosque. Ms Ardern said the jarring difference between the original manifesto and the one she was sent was that her copy was written as if the massacres had already taken place. Candlelit vigils are being held across the globe, with a number of unity marches being conducted through New Zealand. The names of victims of the twin massacres were written on paper hearts and strung through the streets of Christchurch. Tearful members of the community - including police officers - were seen laying bunches of flowers near the mosques. A sea of flowers could be seen outside Al Noor and Linwood Majid mosques in Christchurch as hundreds of people - including police officers who responded to the attacks - flocked to the area around the mosques for vigils. Senator Fraser Anning took a swipe at a left-wing activist at a protest rally after the 17-year-old cracked an egg on his head. The confrontation on Saturday came as a petition to get Anning removed from office garnered 225,000 signatures. Mr Anning released a statement on Friday, claiming the growing fear of the 'increasing Muslim presence' was behind the New Zealand terror attack - which left 49 worshippers dead. A man has been tackled by members of the public after egging controversial Senator Fraser Anning The man then slams an egg on to the back of the Senator's head who spins his body and takes a swipe at the youngster The young man was removed from the event by Victoria Police (pictured) The right-wing politician has been slammed by his peers for his extremist stance, while other Australians paid their respects to the victims of terrorist attack. Mr Anning was speaking at a Conservative National Party Meeting in Moorabbin, Melbourne, on Saturday afternoon when a young man approached him with the egg. Video footage from the event shows the young man approach Mr Anning from behind, as he speaks in front of a camera. The man, who films the altercation, then slams an egg on to the back of the Senator's head who spins his body and takes a swipe at the youngster. A short scuffle ensued before the man was tackled to the ground by other members of the public. An image from the event shows the man walked from the venue by police. A short scuffle ensued before the man was tackled to the ground by other members of the public Attendees of the event held the young man on the ground after the physical altercation Mr Anning has been slammed by politicians for his extremist stance, as Australians pay their respects to the victims of terrorist attack (pictured: man who egged Anning) The 17-year-old was arrested after he allegedly egged Senator Anning but has since been released pending further enquiries. A video has emerged of men believed to be right-wing cronies filming themselves apparently choking the man who threw the egg. The footage films the man's face up-close as he's appeared to be held down by the neck. The men can then be heard hurling abuse at him. 'You are nothing but a weak human being you p****,' one man can be heard saying. While another concerned member of the group appears to tell his friends to 'let him go'. A Change.org petition calling for Mr Anning to be removed from parliament has been signed over 250,000 times. 'Senator Fraser Anning has no place in the government of our democratic and multicultural country,' the petition says. 'We request that he be expelled from his position as Senator, and investigated by law enforcement agencies for supporting right wing terrorism.' The petition speaks about Mr Annging's statements about the Christchurch attack. 'We call on the Australian government to expel this man who blames victims for their own violent deaths, and uses references to genocide to further his hateful agenda,' the petition says. A Change.org petition calling for Mr Anning to be removed from parliament has been signed over 250,000 times Senator Fraser Anning said the real cause of bloodshed on New Zealand streets on Friday is the immigration program that allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place 'There is no place in Australian government for Neo-Nazis. There is no place for bigotry. There is no place for hate speech.' Politicians have roundly condemned Mr Anning for his comments. Prime Minister Scott Morrison also hit out at the independent senator's comments in a tweet on Friday. 'The remarks by Senator Fraser Anning blaming the murderous attacks by a violent, right-wing, extremist terrorist in New Zealand on immigration are disgusting. These views have no place in Australia, let alone in the Australian Parliament.' Labor frontbencher Tony Burke told the ABC 'the normalisation of bigotry is something that is not only confined to him'. 'We need to call it out, we need to make sure that no way any member of parliament fosters it. He wants the conflict and he wants the notoriety,' he said on Saturday. Prime Minister Scott Morrison also hit out at the independent senator's comments in a tweet on Friday Opposition leader Bill Shorten also voiced his anger at Senator Anning's comments 'He was put there as the result of being on the One Nation ticket. One Nation is the reason he is there.' Opposition leader Bill Shorten also voiced his anger at Anning's comments. 'While families in Christchurch mourn for loved ones they've lost, an obscure Australian senator saw this act of terrorism and tragedy as an opportunity to blame the murder victims,' he tweeted. Mehreen Faruqi, the first Muslim woman elected to federal parliament, named Senator Anning and Pauline Hanson as politicians who target Muslims. 'There is blood on the hands of politicians who incite hate. To me, there is a clear link between their politics of hate and this sickening, senseless violence in Christchurch,' she tweeted. Senator for Queensland, William Fraser Anning (pictured) said on Friday while any form of violence can never be justified, immigration is the real reason for the shooting Senator Anning, who was kicked out of the Katter's Australian Party, sparked a deluge of negative reactions on Friday, with people immediately condemning him on social media. 'White supremacy (your ideology) killed these people. Shut the f*** up and have some respect,' one person wrote on Twitter. 'Resign. You do not deserve to stand representative of the Australian people,' another person said. A third person added: 'You are an embarrassment to humanity'. In a follow-up statement, Senator Anning said he opposed to any form of violence within our community and totally condemned the actions of the gunman. 'What it highlights is the growing fear within our community, both in Australia and New Zealand, of the increasing Muslim presence,' he said. Senator Fraser Anning's shocking comments came after news of the multiple shootings at two mosques in New Zealand first broke earlier on Friday morning. One of the gunmen is believed to have live-streamed the mass shooting inside the Al Noor Mosque, which happened at 1.30pm as Friday prayers were underway A 28-year-old Australian white supremacist opened fire at Al Noor Mosque in Christchurch on the country's South Island about 1.30pm (11.30am AEDT) on Friday. The gunman, Brenton Tarrant from Grafton in northern New South Wales, live-streamed the mass shooting. Senator Fraser Anning described as 'cliched nonsense' the idea that nationalist ideology was to blame. 'The real cause of bloodshed on New Zealand streets today is the immigration program which allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place,' he said. Senator Fraser Anning said while Muslims were the victims in this instance, they were usually the perpetrators. 'Worldwide, Muslims are killing people in the name of their faith on an industrial scale,' he said. 'The entire religion of Islam is simply the violent ideology of a sixth century despot masquerading as a religious leader, which justifies endless war against anyone who opposes it and calls for the murder of unbelievers and apostates.' Senator Anning's statement in full New Zealand Mosque Shooting Speaking following reports of multiple shootings at two Mosques in New Zealand earlier today, Senator Fraser Anning has responded with strong condemnation. 'I am utterly opposed to any form of violence within our community, and I totally condemn the actions of the gunman,' he said. 'However, whilst this kind of violent vigilantism can never be justified, what it highlights is the growing fear within our community, both in Australia and New Zealand, of the increasing Muslim presence. 'As always, left-wing politicians and the media will rush to claim that the causes of today's shootings lie with gun laws or those who hold nationalist views but this is all cliched nonsense. Anning has sparked outrage after blaming immigration for the mosque shootings in New Zealand 'The real cause of bloodshed on New Zealand streets today is the immigration program which allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place. 'Let us be clear, while Muslims may have been the victims today, usually they are the perpetrators. World-wide, Muslims are killing people in the name of their faith on an industrial scale. 'The entire religion of Islam is simply the violent ideology of a sixth century despot masquerading as a religious leader, which justifies endless war against anyone who opposes it and calls for the murder of unbelievers and apostates. 'The truth is that Islam is not like any other faith. It is the religious equivalent of fascism. And just because the followers of this savage belief were not the killers in this instance, does not make them blameless. 'As we read in Matthew 26:52, 'all they that take the sword, shall perish by the sword' and those who follow a violent religion that calls on them to murder us, cannot be too surprised when someone takes them at their word and responds in kind,' Senator Anning concluded. Advertisement The senator said Islam was not like any other faith and quoted the Bible to justify his assertion. 'It is the religious equivalent of fascism. And just because the followers of this savage belief were not the killers in this instance, does not make them blameless,' he said. 'As we read in Matthew 26:52, 'All they that take the sword, shall perish by the sword' and those who follow a violent religion that calls on them to murder us, cannot be too surprised when someone takes them at their word and responds in kind.' In August, Senator Anning told Parliament a 'final solution' to Muslim immigration was needed in the form of a plebiscite, several months after defecting from Pauline Hanson's One Nation party. A Florida man who went to use the bathroom on Thursday found an unexpected four-legged surprise. Authorities say Jose Macia, of Fort Lauderdale returned home from lunch Thursday afternoon and discovered a bright, green iguana in his toilet. Macia initially called the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, but an employee told him their agency doesn't handle animal rescue calls of this nature. So Macia called 911 instead. A Florida man called 911 on Thursday after finding this green iguana in his toilet Fire fighters who responded to the call said they removed the lizard from the bathroom and released it into the wild unharmed The department later tweeted out photos of the lizard and the fire fighter who rescued it Fire fighters with the Fort Lauderdale Fire and Rescue Department responded to the call. They entered the man's bathroom, lifted his toilet lid and found the lizard wading in the water. Someone took a picture of the reptile and tweeted it out using the department's Twitter account. 'Can you imagine lifting the toilet seat and finding this?' the department said in a Thursday afternoon tweet that included a photo of the lizard. Firefighter Jeff Kurus reached in and grabbed the iguana after putting on a sterile glove. The lizard was taken outside and released in the wild unharmed, the department said. Iguanas, which are native to South Florida, are commonly seen scurrying across lawns, sidewalks, and streets. Several Twitter users from the region were surprised a fellow Floridian would call 911 over seeing one in his toilet. 'He MUST be new here. That's just a little guy and he could have handled it. My 9 year old girl could have handled it,' Twitter user DANY said of Macia in a reply to the department's tweet. FLFR Battalion Chief Stephan Gollan said his department is accustomed to dealing with all kinds of wild animals in the tropical state where pythons and alligators are also commonly seen in public places. 'We are the end-all-be-all,' Gollan told the Miami Herald. The Empire State building remained dark this evening in an expression of sympathy for the victims of the Christchurch shooting, which left 49 dead and dozens more injured. The iconic building, which dominates the New York City skyline, turned its lights off in a powerful symbol of mourning, pictures show. A message on the official Empire State twitter account read: 'Our tower lights will remain dark this evening in sympathy for the victims of the shooting in Christchurch, New Zealand.' The Empire State building remained dark this evening in an expression of sympathy for the victims of the Christchurch shooting, which left 49 dead and dozens more injured A message on the official Empire State twitter account read: 'Our tower lights will remain dark this evening in sympathy for the victims of the shooting in Christchurch, New Zealand' Other countries across the world followed suit, with the Eiffel Tower in Paris also dimming its lights in respect for the dead Other countries across the world followed suit, with the Eiffel Tower in Paris also dimming its lights in respect for the dead. Finland's congress hall shone a vivid blue to commemorate the victims, while the New Zealand flag still flies at half-mast in the country's capital of Wellington. The Canadian flag is also still at half-mast on the Peace Tower in Ottawa and across Sydney Habour Bridge is Australia. Finland's congress hall shone a vivid blue to commemorate the victims, while the New Zealand flag still flies at half-mast in the country's capital of Wellington The Canadian flag flies at half-mast on the Peace Tower in memory of the victims of the mosque attacks in New Zealand Flags fly at half mast on the Sydney Harbour Bridge Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, appeared in Christchurch District Court charged with murder on Saturday, after he allegedly stormed a mosque in Christchurch, opening fire with a semi-automatic shotgun and a rifle on about 100 people attending Friday prayers. Authorities have confirmed 49 people were killed in the massacre and at least 40 were injured. Haji Daoud Nabi, 71, Naeem Rashid and his 21-year-old son Talha, have been confirmed dead by heartbroken family and friends. Authorities have confirmed 49 people were killed in the massacre and at least 40 were injured Naeem Rashid (pictured), from Abbottabad in Pakistan, was hailed a hero after he tried to wrestle the gun from the Christchurch shooter on Friday Mr Nabi, a father-of-five and retired engineer, moved to New Zealand from Afghanistan in 1977 and set up a new life as one of the 'first Muslims in New Zealand'. Two of his sons Omar Nabi, 43, and Yama Nabi, 45, appeared outside Christchurch District Court on Saturday morning where they shared photos of their father. The pair were told to expect the worst on Friday afternoon after their father hadn't returned from his Friday prayers. Naeem Rashid, from Abbottabad in Pakistan, was hailed a hero after he tried to wrestle the gun from the Christchurch shooter on Friday. He was badly wounded after he launched himself at the shooter in a bid to protect fellow worshippers. He was rushed to hospital following the attack, but later died. A prisoner who was being watched while receiving treatment at a hospital has been shot by police after he allegedly tried to escape. The 43-year-old inmate allegedly assaulted one of the two officers assigned to escort him from Lismore Base Hospital in northeastern New South Wales after treatment on Friday at about 7.30pm. After a scuffle, officers tried to calm him by firing a warning shot, but the man ignored it and police fired another. The 43-year-old inmate allegedly assaulted one of the two officers escourting him from Lismore Base Hospital in northeastern New South Wales after treatment on Friday night Paramedics raced to the man and rushed him inside the hospital, but he died two hours later, The Daily Telegraph reports. The man is believed to be known by Strike Force Raptor, who investigate outlaw motorcycle gangs in NSW, but his identity has yet to be released. An investigation into his death is now currently underway. It is said that the number of prison inmates admitted to public hospitals has increased because jail nurses aren't qualified to treat them, The Sunday Telegraph reported last year. Despite prisons having their own health centre, it is understood inmates are taken to hospitals for trivial ailments every day. A counter-terrorism expert has said a military-style assault rifle allegedly used in Friday's Christchurch massacre has never seen before in Australia and New Zealand. Australian white supremacist Brenton Tarrant, 28, is accused of killing 49 people at two mosques in Christchurch in New Zealand's deadliest mass shooting. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told reporters at a press conference on Saturday that Tarrant allegedly used two semi-automatic weapons, two shotguns and a lever-action firearm. One of the weapons Australian Brenton Tarrant (pictured) allegedly was a AR-15, an assault rifle counter-terrorism expert say haven't been seen in Australia or New Zealand before Deakin University counter-terrorism expert Greg Barton identified one of the weapons as a AR-15, the same assault rifle used in the 2017 Las Vegas mass shooting that killed 58 people. 'We haven't seen these assault weapons used in Australia and New Zealand,' Mr Barton told ABC News. 'I think now we've got to face the fact that they're at large.' New Zealand's worst mass shooting has put the country's current regulations of owning a semi-automatic military-style weapon under scrutiny. One of the weapons that were allegedly used in the Christchurch massacre. They included two semiautomatic weapons, two shotguns, and a lever-action firearm Mr Barton questioned how Tarrant allegedly obtained the powerful weapons. 'You would have thought getting an assault rifle was very hard, not like it is in America where it's very easy,' he said. A former armed offenders squad member some of the semi-automatic weapons Tarrant allegedly used were very similar to what police and the military use. New Zealand currently has no ban on semi-automatic military-style weapons. 'Those weapons he had you can purchase with a normal firearms licence,' the 16-year police veteran told Stuff. 'It's not the first time he's ever fired those types of weapons. He's fired them before.' New Zealand's gun laws are expected to be overhauled in the wake of Friday's mass shooting in Christchurch. Picture are some of the weapons Friday's mass shooting has renewed calls for a tough crackdown on New Zealand's gun laws in a country where there is one firearm to every four people. New Zealand has almost double the number of guns per person compared to Australia, where laws were toughed in the wake of the 1996 Port Arthur massacre which claimed 35 lives. Along with the US, New Zealand is one of two nations that doesn't have a national gun register. 'I can tell you one thing right now, our gun laws will change,' Ms Ardern told reporters. Advertisement Thousands of people joined an anti-Fascist rally in Melbourne on Saturday calling for a stop to Islamophobia in the wake of the New Zealand massacre. Prayers were read and tears shed for the victims during Saturday's event outside Victoria's State Library to stand in solidarity with the Islamic community. While many people are still reeling from Friday's shooting, rally organiser Jasmine Ali told Daily Mail Australia she was very pleased with the turnout on Saturday. Thousands of people have joined an anti-Fascist rally in Melbourne calling for a stop to Islamophobia in the wake of the New Zealand massacre Prayers were read and tears shed for the victims during Saturday's event outside Victoria's State Library (pictured) to stand in solidarity with the Islamic community A young man (pictured) at Saturday's rally, which was calling for a stop to Islamophobia, was captured carrying a 'Muslim Lives Matter' sign Ms Ali said it was wonderful to see people of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities stand shoulder to shoulder on the streets and show their support for change. 'The turnout reflects the broad sentiment felt by people,' she said. She said Stand Together Against Racism is calling for an end to racist government rhetoric and policies that have led to vilification and violent attacks. 'The Islamophobia and racist rhetoric of Australia's Coalition government has contributed to an atmosphere where vile attacks like the Christchurch shooting become possible,' Ms Ali said. Ms Ali said the rally also highlighted the need to put an end to all forms of racism that is damaging Indigenous, migrant, Muslim and refugee communities. She said this includes saying no to Islamophobia, no to the right, and stopping fear-mongering and scapegoating. Among the many rallygoers were people carrying signs that called for an end to fear-mongering and scapegoating The organisers said they were very pleased with the rally turnout, which they estimated to reach more than 2000 people The support shown at the rally is thought to have eased fear among the Muslim community who are allegedly too afraid to go into the city's mosques Strangers also took flowers and messages of support to the Australian Islamic Centre, which is believed to have eased the fear among some members of the Muslim community who are too afraid to go into the city's mosques. Islamic Council of Victoria secretary Mohammad Helmy was among the many voices calling for change at the event. 'This kind of hate rhetoric, it kills,' Mr Helmy told 9News Melbourne. 'We can see this coming from the hate rhetoric being shared in the public domain,' Mr Helmy said. The rally was one of many protests of its kind held across the globe ahead of next week's International Day for the Elimination of Discrimination The rally was one of many protests of its kind held across the globe ahead of next week's International Day for the Elimination of Discrimination Ms Ali said the rally called for an end to racist government rhetoric and policies that have led to vilification and violent attacks The rally was one of many protests of its kind held across the globe ahead of next week's International Day for the Elimination of Discrimination. A number of Melbourne's landmarks were lit up overnight in the New Zealand flag colours in a show of solidarity, including Flinders Street Station, the Town Hall and the State Library. Ms Ali said the turnout at Saturday's rally reflects the general feeling that the community is looking for immediate change. 'People are sick and tired - they want change,' she said. 1. On May 3, 2007, around 22:00, when you entered the apartment, what did you see? What did you do? Where did you look? What did you touch? 2. Did you search inside the master bedroom wardrobe? 3. (Shown two photographs of her bedroom wardrobe) Can you describe its contents? 4. Why was the curtain by the sofa near the side window tampered with? Did someone go behind the sofa? 5. How long did your search of the apartment take after you detected Madeleines disappearance? 6. Why did you say Madeleine had been abducted? 7. Assuming Madeleine was abducted, why did you leave the twins to go to the Tapas and raise the alarm? The supposed abductor could still be in the apartment. 8. Why didnt you ask the twins then what happened to their sister or why didnt you ask them later on? 9. When you raised the alarm at the Tapas what exactly did you say what were your exact words? 10. What happened after you raised the alarm there? The documentary shows Madeleine happily playing at Praia da Luz children's club in 2007 The McCanns travelled to the Algarve in April 2007 with Madeleine, her brother Sean, sister Amelie, and a group of friends. Madeleine disappeared five days later. 11. Why did you go and warn your friends instead of shouting from the verandah? 12. Who contacted the authorities? 13. Who took place in the searches? 14. Did anyone outside the group learn of her disappearance in those following minutes? 15. Did any neighbour offer you help? 16. What does 'we let her down' mean? 17. Did Jane Tanner tell you that night shed seen a man with a child? 18. How were the authorities contacted and which police force was alerted? 19. During the searches, with the police there, where did you search for Maddie, how and in what way? 20. Why did the twins not wake up during that search or when they were taken upstairs? 21. Who did you phone after the occurrence? 22. Did you call Sky News? 23. Did you know the danger of calling the media, because it could influence the abductor? 24. Did you ask for a priest? 25. By what means did you divulge Madeleines features, by photographs or by any other means? 26. Is it true that during the searches you remained seated on Maddies bed without moving? 27 What was your behaviour that night? 28. Did you manage to sleep? 29. Before travelling to Portugal, did you make any comment about a foreboding or a bad feeling? 30. What was Madeleines behaviour like? 31. Did Maddie suffer from any illness or take any medication? 32. What was Madeleines relationship like with her brother and sister? 33. What was Madeleines relationship like with her brother and sister, friends and school mates? 34. As for your professional life, in how many and which hospitals have you worked? 35. What is your medical speciality? 36. Have you ever done shift work in any emergency services or other services? 37. Did you work every day? 38. At a certain point you stopped working. Why? 39. Are the twins difficult to get to sleep? Are they restless and does that cause you uneasiness? 40. Is it true sometimes you despaired at your childrens behaviour and it left you feeling very uneasy? 41. Is it true that in England you even considered handing over Madeleines custody to a relative? 42. In England, did you medicate your children? What type of medication? 43. In the case files, you were shown canine forensic testing films. After watching them, did you say you couldnt explain any more than you already had? 44. When the sniffer dog also marked human blood behind the sofa, did you say you couldnt explain any more than you already had? 45. When the sniffer dog marked the scent of corpse coming from the vehicle you hired a month after the disappearance, did you say you couldnt explain any more than you already had? 46. When human blood was marked in the boot of the vehicle, did you say you couldnt explain any more than you already had? 47. When confronted with the results of Maddies DNA, carried out in a British lab, collected from behind the sofa and the boot of the vehicle, did you say you couldnt explain any more than you already had? 48. Did you have any responsibility or intervention in your daughters disappearance? The accused Christchurch killer's mother is believed to be in police hiding in case she is threatened by anyone wanting revenge, Daily Mail Australia can reveal. Sharon Tarrant is thought to have been whisked away to a secret location after being interviewed by counter-terrorism police in Grafton, northern NSW, on Friday night. She and her daughter Lauren approached police as soon as they heard Brenton Tarrant gunned down 50 worshippers in New Zealand hours earlier. The mother of accused Christchurch mosque killer Brenton Tarrant (pictured) has been whisked away to a secret location after fears of revenge threats Ms Tarrant had to leave so quickly her small fluffy white dog was left to fend for itself, sitting on a chair on the front porch of her home. The pup looked despondent, sitting a few metres from two empty food bowls and the house about 30 minutes' drive away from Grafton in Lawrence. Ms Tarrant was in class teaching a double-period of English when her son went on his shooting rampage. Her partner Gerald Tory was seen briefly at their house in Lawrence, 30 minutes drive from Grafton, on Saturday morning, but did not get out of his car. Ms Tarrant was forced to leave so quickly that she left her small fluffy white dog behind on her front porch (pictured) Left to fend for itself, it was photographed by Daily Mail Australia on Saturday sitting on a chair looking despondent and sitting a few metres from two empty food bowls Tarrant's father Rodney died in 2010 of asbestos-related cancer. Acquaintances said the family received a payout from asbestos manufacturer James Hardie, of which Tarrant is believed to have got about $50,000. He used those funds and other cash he made trading cryptocurrency to travel the world for seven years soon after his father's death. Tarrant's close-relatives are still trying to come to terms with the atrocity that has befallen their family. The grandmother of Tarrant reacted with disbelief after learning the 'good boy' she saw last Christmas could have murdered 50 people. Joyce Tarrant, 94, said the cold-blooded killer who filmed himself calmly gunning down Muslims during Friday prayers was not the grandson she knew. 'It's all very shocking, especially [it being] Brenton, he's a good boy,' she told Daily Mail Australia. 'He was always nice and kind and was sure to visit us twice a year.' Ms Tarrant's picture-perfect home (pictured) where Tarrant grew up in Grafton in the Northern River region of Australia's New South Wales Joyce said the whole family was struggling with the news. She said Tarrant showed no signs of extremist ideology when she last spoke with him. Self-confessed terrorist Tarrant faced a New Zealand court on Saturday charged with murder a day after his rampage. He made a white power gesture from behind a glass window during the brief appearance in court. So far 50 people have been confirmed dead - including at least one child - while dozens more remain missing. Joyce Tarrant, 94, (pictured) said the cold-blooded killer who filmed himself calmly gunning down Muslims during Friday prayers was not the grandson she knew A Lib Dem peer has called for a woman prison boss dubbed the 'Beast of Bahrain' to be sacked after she beat up an inmate whose relative had just testified to British MPs about torture in her jail. Lord Scriven said Lientenant Colonel Mariam Albardoli is responsible for 'degrading, cruel and humiliating treatment of prisoners' at the country's Isa Town jail. Millions of pounds of British taxpayers money has been spent on projects to help Bahraini prison staff in order to prevent abuse. Prison boss Lt Col Mariam Albardoli has been dubbed the Beast of Bahrain after beating up an inmate whose relative told British MPs about torture in her jail Hajer Mansoor Hassan (left) smiles at a school ceremony with her son, Sayed Nazar. Hajer was singled out for a severe beating because her son-in-law, Sayed Alwadaei, had briefed a group of MPs about what was happening in Bahrain But the peer claims the tiny Gulf state uses the existence of UK support to give it a 'cloak of respectability to undermine human rights, a cloak of respectability for murder and torture.' Lord Scriven said Albardoli had targeted a female political prisoner, Hajer Hassan, who was jailed in 2017 following what was internationally condemned as a flawed trial. The 50-year-old mum was beaten up in jail five days after her son-in-law, Sayed Alwadaei, testified in the House of Commons about the attacks on her and other prisoners at the jail. Afterwards Albardoli reprimanded Hajer telling her: 'I don't care if people call me a torturer, but you (Hajer) must stop speaking out about what happens in the prison'. Since then Hajer was refused an examination for a lump in her breast for five months and denied family visits while another woman inmate was denied medical attention for injuries she received during torture. Protestors project a Free Hajoor Mansoor (Hassan) image onto Marble Arch, London On the day of the beatings Hajer and two other prisoners, Najah Yusuf and Medina Ali, had been prevented from observing the religious day of Ashura. According to a complaint submitted at the time by her son-in-law, the three women were 'physically assaulted and beaten' when Lt-Col Albardoli arrived at their cells with guards. Mr Alwadaei said: 'Hajer found herself on the floor with an officer sitting on her chest while two other officers held her arms, both handcuffed, as well as her legs. 'After the assault she was unable to stand in her feet. Hajer sustained bruises on her hands and back which required her hospitalisation. Her blood sugar levels had dropped dangerously low.' Albardoli was later said to have punched Medina in the back in an area where there was no CCTV. The prison boss later visited Hajer in her isolation room and asked her: 'What are you going to say about the bruises?' Hajer's response that she would tell the truth led to all communication with her family being cut off until her bruises had healed. Lord Scriven said: 'It is clear that Mariam Albardoli is someone who both sanctions and is behind degrading, cruel and humiliating treatment of prisoners including Hajer Mansoor. Lord Scriven said Albardoli (pictured) had targeted a female political prisoner, Hajer Hassan, who was jailed in 2017 'If Bahrain are going to show the outside world they are serious about human rights abuses they should remove her from her position immediately and replace her with a governor who respects and upholds basic human rights. 'The UK Government should also seriously look at her behaviour and see if she is fit to be allowed to enter the UK'. A wave of crackdowns erupted when Arab Spring demonstrations swept through Bahrain in 2011, following similar uprisings in Tunisia and Egypt. At one point more than 100,000 pro-democracy demonstrators took to the streets, and many, including Mr Alwadaei, were thrown in jail. When he was freed in December 2011 after being held for six months Mr Alwadaei fled to the UK, where he was granted asylum by the Home Office. As well as his mother-in-law, Mr Alwadaei's cousin and brother-in-law are also in jail, with all accused on charges of planting a fake bomb, which human rights campaigners say were 'trumped up' and confessions forced out of them. And they project an Arrest Major Mariam Albardouli image outside the BBC HQ in Portland Place, London There are now thought to be about 4000 political prisoners in Bahrain where there are 'widespread and systematic human rights abuses'. Reprieve's director, Maya Foa said: 'The U.K. government's refusal to condemn these human rights abuses at Isa Town prison is appalling, and risks sending the message to the Bahraini authorities that there is tacit acceptance of reprisals being taken against the families of anti-death penalty activists. 'Britain has provided millions of pounds in technical assistance to Bahrain, supposedly to reform its criminal justice system. It must demand that those responsible be investigated in line with Bahrain's international obligations and potentially prosecuted for their acts.' The Bahrain Embassy denies Hajer was assaulted and claims any injuries she suffered were self-inflicted. Advertisement Britain is enduring a weekend of plunging temperatures combined with gale-force winds and heavy snow as the second storm in a week lashes the country - but experts predict sunnier skies from mid next week. The storm, which the Met Office could name Storm Hannah, has so far brought snow to northern England, southern Scotland and Northern Ireland - along with four inches of rain to Wales and northern England. Severe flooding in North Wales caused by the heavy rain has caused devastation for businesses and homes along the banks of the river Conwy which burst its banks earlier today. National Trust owned Tu Hwnt i'r Bont Tearoom was a casualty of the flooding, now standing in 3ft of water with high tide still to come. The government has issued 44 flood warnings for areas including parts of: the Yorkshire Dales, North Yorkshire, Lancashire, Newcastle, Wolverhampton, Trowbridge, Derby, Huddersfield, Exmoor and Exeter. Scroll down for video Slide me The Tu Hwnt I'r Bont tearoom on the banks of the River Conwy in North Wales, where severe flooding has led to the closure of the popular tourist attraction today which stands in stark contrast to its more familiar picture postcard scenery The banks of the River Conwy in North Wales have burst meaning severe flooding for businesses in the area like the Tu Hwnt I'r Bont tearoom (pictured) Floods in Llanrwst north Wales as the main A470 at Llanwrst is blocked to traffic after continuing heavy rain causes chaos. Mrs Julia Jones, 72, (pictured) was feeling terrified as the waters rose around her house in Llanrwst Mrs Jones looks out from her door as she attempts to stop the water reaching her Llanrwst house by using sandbags Tu Hwnt Yr Bont cafe is under 3 feet of water already with rain forecast for another 5 hours and high tide to come on the river Water levels along a stretch of the River Irwell are expected to rise perilously close to a 'danger level' today as heavy rainfall continues to batter the Greater Manchester area as well as further north. Flood alerts remain in force in a number of areas The River Irwell, which divides the cities of Manchester and Salford, has burst its banks on the Salford side after continued heavy rainfall this afternoon Water levels at the back of The Lowry Hotel in Salford's Media City area is about 4 inches off bursting its banks The storm has so far brought snow to northern England, southern Scotland and Northern Ireland - along with four inches of rain to Wales and northern England Residents put temporary floodgates and sandbags in place before the Conwy river gets any higher A van disappears in the huge waves on Colwyn Bay promenade in the very rough and windy weather on the north Wales coast A new Met Office yellow snow warning was issued at 4am today for most of Scotland and parts of Northern England including Cumbria and the Lake District. A separate yellow rain and snow warning has been issued for Northern Ireland. As much as 10cm of snow could fall on higher ground, according to forecasters. Police Scotland issued a warning to motorists as road conditions worsened on Saturday morning. A statement said: 'There is a yellow weather warning in place for many parts of the country today and many areas are waking up to wintry weather conditions. Bad weather day: A tourist gets caught in strong gusts of wind while taking a photograph on Westminster Bridge in London Gusts of up to 50mph hit the capital earlier today, the centre of the weather system will move into the North Sea into tonight A large oak tree crashed onto a house in Bewbush, near Crawley after strong winds of up to 65mph blew it over Crawley Fire Station released the picture of the potentially life threatening incident caused by the strong winds in Bewbush near Crawley, West Sussex 'Take care on the roads and be prepared for your journey. Slow down and drive to the conditions.' Several cars were involved in an accident on the M77 southbound at the Maidenhill exit slip near Newton Mearns, while part of the M8 was flooded at Paisley. Met Office meteorologist Luke Miall said: 'We've got quite a few weather warnings in place for today across the UK. 'In Scotland we are likely to see a good covering of snow above 200 metres or so where we could see 2cm to 6cm and perhaps as much as 10cm above 400 metres. 'It's mainly higher ground but that will affect some of the routes that travel across the Highlands and central parts of Scotland. 'The other warning we have in force is for wind and that covers pretty much everywhere from north-west England down through Wales and then southern counties of England including London. 'Here we will see some pretty strong winds through the day gusting 45mph to 55mph quite widely within that area.' Snowy condition on the A1 near Alnwick, Northumberland, the UK is battered by strong winds, rain and snow as an area of developing low pressure sweeps across the country today Cars on the A1 near Alnwick, Northumberland where they are experiencing several centimeters of snow HGV in snowy conditions on the A1 near Alnwick, Northumberland as three yellow ice warnings are issued across Britain Dog walkers don their snow gear near Alnwick Castle, Northumberland as a blanket of snow covers the county Contrasting photos of Alnwick Castle, Northumberland today (top) and in on March 24 last year. The late blast of wintry weather will affect most parts of the UK this weekend He said exposed and coastal areas could see gusts as high as 65mph. He added: 'The reason for all this is we have an area of low pressure which is moving its way in and that will continue crossing Northern Ireland and parts of southern Scotland.' Heavy snow also fell in parts of Northumberland overnight covering part of the A1 at Alnwick. Temperatures will vary throughout the UK from around 12C to 13C in the south while some areas of Scotland will struggle to get above freezing, Mr Miall said. Seven yellow weather warnings issued across Britain and Northern Ireland today, Saturday March 16 A yellow warning for ice extends into the early hours of Sunday. Strong winds are expected with a yellow wind warning issued for Wales and East and South England including London. Gusts of 45 to 55mph are expected widespread across these areas with highs of 60 to 65mph in exposed areas. Forecasters are warning of delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport and for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes, combined with seven separate warnings today for wind, rain, ice and snow. Temperatures could drop to -7C in the north later today as a deep area of low pressure heads towards the UK from the Atlantic. However this won't last for long as the excessive low pressure system is driven away by a strong jet stream making way for high pressure which is expected to keep the clouds at bay - meaning sunny skies from mid next week. Large waves hit the coast as spectators watch from rocks out into the sea at Porthcawl, Wales Large waves hit the coast as the UK is to be battered by strong winds and rain as developing low pressure sweeps across the country Strong South Westerley winds return to the Channel coast creating some dramatic scenes in Newhaven, East Sussex The 'Beast from the West' batters Blackpool's Coastline as strong winds of up to 65mph hit the shore Strong winds whip up large waves on Blackpool shore today as wind warnings cover the coastline with highs of 65mph Met Office forecaster Matthew Box confirmed this weekend's storm has not yet been named, but warned that today would be 'all in all a cold day in the North and a windy day in the southern half of the country'. He told MailOnline: 'We'll see some strong winds affecting England and Wales, particularly coastal areas, through Saturday. The strongest of those winds will be affecting coastal areas of Cornwall and Wales. Stormy weather is expected across Britain today with large areas of low pressure 'It's kind of a contrast to the northern half of the country. We're expecting to see quite a lot of cloud and rain pushing across much of the country through the course of Saturday morning. 'This is also going to turn to sleet and snow over the hills of Northern Ireland and northern England and the southern uplands of Scotland - and perhaps even the central belt of Scotland.' Mr Box told how as the low pressure centre pushes away, there could also be snow in the North East before wintry showers arrive in the West. He added: 'It's a day to take precautions and keep aware of the warnings.' More than 2,100 homes, offices and shops in Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire, were blacked out by the tail end of Storm Gareth yesterday morning, along with nearly 200 properties in the Devon towns of Plymouth and Torquay. The storm is expected to arrive today (left), although it is not yet clear if it will be named Storm Hannah In this satellite image, a stream of Atlantic cloud can be seen arriving in Britain at 10am Friday. The St Patrick's weekend windstorm could bring snow, gales, rain and floods according to forecasters Where are the weather warnings for today? WIND: 4am until 9pm Southern England and Wales Gusts of up to 70mph RAIN: Whole day Northern England and Wales Up to 4in (10cm) on higher ground SNOW: 4am until 9pm Northern England, Scotland and Northern Ireland Up to 8in (20cm) above 350m (1,150ft) and up to 4in (10cm) above 100m (330ft) ICE: 9pm until 9.30am tomorrow morning Northern Ireland, Wales, southern and eastern England and parts of Scotland Advertisement BBC forecaster Susan Powell said Gareth had now moved east to the North Sea, but warned of a 'conveyor belt' of stormy weather from the US that would bring strong winds with the chance of another named storm. Storm Gareth swept into Britain earlier this week, bringing gusts of up to 75mph on Tuesday night, while winds of more than 60mph were felt widely across western parts of the UK in the early hours of thursday. Three climbers died following an avalanche on Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain, with a fourth taken to hospital with serious injuries. The group were caught by a river of snow and ice in a gully. Queues of lorries around seven miles long formed along a section of a major motorway at Dover in Kent waiting for space on ferries and Eurotunnel crossings after severe weather disrupted cross-Channel crossings. A tree falling on to overhead wires between Irvine and Kilwinning overnight caused disruption to trains between Glasgow and Ayr, but Scotrail confirmed thurday afternoon that the lines had been repaired. Trains between Durham and Newcastle were also halted after overhead electric wires were damaged, impacting LNER, CrossCountry, Northern and Transpennine Express services, but reopened later that day. Some Virgin Trains services between Manchester Piccadilly and London Euston and some between Glasgow Central and Preston were cancelled. There were also reports of trees blocking roads. Controversial far-right commentator Milo Yiannopoulos has been banned from entering Australia on tour after his remarks about the New Zealand terror attack. Immigration Minister David Coleman released a statement on Saturday confirming the decision to cancel Mr Yiannopoulos' visa into the country. Mr Yiannopoulos' had described Islam as a 'barbaric, alien' religious culture on social media overnight, hours after 50 people were killed and 42 injured in an attack at two mosques in Christchurch. Right-wing poster boy Milo Yiannopoulos (pictured) was granted an Australian visa but that has been revoked after he made controversial comments following the terror attack in New Zealand Federal Minister for Immigration David Coleman has cancelled Mr Yiannopoulos' visa into 'Milo Yiannopoulos will not be allowed to enter Australia for his proposed tour this year,' Mr Coleman said. Mr Coleman has flip-flopped over whether Mr Yiannopoulos should be allowed to enter Australia, having granted him a visa just a week ago. The government had agreed to the visa after conservative MPs had put pressure on Mr Coleman to override the Department of Home Affairs' advice to ban Mr Yiannopoulos. Conservative MPs, including One Nation leader Pauline Hanson and former human rights commissioner Tim Wilson, argued that banning the alt-right speaker would be a blow to freedom of speech. 'Mr Yiannopoulos' comments on social media regarding the Christchurch terror attack are appalling and foment hatred and division,' Mr Coleman said on Saturday. 'The terrorist attack in Christchurch was carried out on Muslims peacefully practising their religion. It was an act of pure evil.' New Zealand is in mourning after 50 people were killed an attack at two mosques in Christchurch on Friday Mr Yiannopoulostook to social media after the announcement on Saturday, where he said: 'I'm banned from Australia, again, after a statement in which I said I abhor political violence'. Labor MP Tony Burke took to Twitter to praise the decision to ban the speaker. 'Milo banned. Good. His overnight comments weren't that different from how he has always behaved. There was already enough evidence to ban him which is why the department had already recommended he be banned. The Australian tours for the world's hate speakers must stop,' he urged. The speaking tour had previously been given the green light despite Mr Yiannopoulos owing Victoria Police $50,000 to cover policing at a Melbourne event in December, 2017, during which up to 500 left-wing protesters clashed with about 50 right-wing activists. The conservative provocateur's supporters clashed with protesters who chanted 'f*** off Nazi', which led to seven arrests during his 2017 Sydney tour. The 33-year-old had initially organised a 'Deplorables' speaking tour with convicted criminal Tommy Robinson and self-described 'western chauvinist' Gavin McInnes in December. The tour was rescheduled to February 2019 but was cancelled for the second time because visa applications were still being considered by government authorities. The terrorist who opened fire on a New Zealand mosque full of worshippers sent his online manifesto to Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and 70 others minutes before he begun his attack. Australian man Brenton Tarrant, 28, published 'The Great Replacement' the morning before opening fire at two mosques in Christchurch, on New Zealand's south island. Tarrant live streamed his attack on the Al Noor mosque on Facebook. Australian man Brenton Tarrant (pictured), 28, opened fire on a mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand Officials confirmed the terrorist sent his online manifesto to Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern (pictured) before the shooting Tarrant published an online manifesto detailing his plans to carry out a massacre hours before the attack. He called the 73-page document: 'The Great Replacement' He sent the manifesto to about 70 recipients, including National leader Simon Bridges and Parliament Speaker Trevor Mallard, the NZ Herald reported. The other recipients who received the shocking document were media organisations, both in New Zealand and international. A spokesman from the Prime Minister's Office said the 'manifesto' was sent to an email account managed by Ms Ardern's office, not her personal account. The worker in the office that opened the email immediately sent it to Parliamentary security who referred it to police. 'It does not set out what he was about to do. It was written as if it had occurred, to explain what obviously was about to play out,' the spokesman said. The horrific attack killed 50 people and left more than 40 in hospital suffering from gunshot wounds. Four arrests were made, including Tarrant, two men and a woman. Bombs attached to a pair of cars owned by the suspects were disarmed. The chilling 73-page manifesto details his twisted grievances, why he picked the mosques in Christchurch and how he was inspired by Norway mass killer Anders Behring Breivik, who killed 77 in 2011. The manifesto reveals in chilling details his grievances, why he picked the mosque and reveals why he was inspired by Norway mass shooter Anders Behring Breivik (pictured) Witnesses reported hearing 50 shots from his weapons including a semi-automatic shotgun and a rifle at Al Noor Mosque in Christchurch on the country's South Island (Pictured) Self-confessed terrorist Tarrant faced a New Zealand court on Saturday charged with murder. 'I have read the writings of Dylan Roof and many others, but only really took true inspiration from Knight Justiciar Breivik,' he wrote. Tarrant's reference to Breivik as a 'Knight' relates to the Norwegian's support for the Knights Templar - an extremist Christian group of specialist fighters from the 12th century. Tarrant also claimed he had been inspired to carry out the attacks as 'revenge' for a terror attack in Sweden that claimed a young girl among its victims. 'There was a period of time two years prior to the attack that dramatically changed my views. The period of time was from April 2017 to May 2017,' he wrote. In the manifesto Tarrant said he initially planned to target a mosque in Dunedin, but changed to the Al Noor and Masjid Mosques because they had 'far more invaders'. Witnesses reported hearing 50 shots and police are responding to the incident at Al Noor Mosque in Christchurch on the country's South Island. Pictured is a still from a live-stream of the shooting The shooter's weapons were marked with the names of other people who have carried out attacks Explaining his plans the massacre, the shooter wrote that: 'To most of all show the invaders that our lands will never be their lands, our homelands are our own and that, as long as a white man still lives, they will NEVER conquer our lands and they will never replace our people. 'By the definition, then yes. It is a terrorist attack. But I believe it is a partisan action against an occupying force.' He also revealed he did not initially plan to carry out the attack in New Zealand at all. 'I only arrived in New Zealand to live temporarily while I planned and trained, but I soon found out that New Zealand was as target rich of an environment as anywhere else in the West,' Tarrant wrote. 'Secondly an attack in New Zealand would bring to attention the truth of the assault on our civilisation.' He also claimed to be inspired by Candace Owens, an outspoken right-wing commentator in the US. 'The person that has influenced me above all was Candace Owens, each time she spoke I was stunned by her insights.' Police in Benidorm have arrested an alleged fugitive British paedophile who fled to the Costa Blanca after discovering he was under investigation in the UK. The 37-year-old was held by Spanish officers acting on a European Arrest Warrant and taken to Madrid for an extradition hearing. The suspect is accused of repeatedly sexually abusing two minors. The 37-year-old was held on Wednesday by Spanish officers acting on a European Arrest Warrant and taken to Madrid for an extradition hearing Spanish police say the man is facing ten charges in the UK. Officers released footage of the unnamed Brit when he was arrested, showing him being escorted to an unmarked patrol car by a male and female officer. He was wearing a T-shirt, shorts and trainers and was not handcuffed but the officers had a firm grip on each arm as they put him in the vehicle. Spanish police escort the unnamed Brit into a police car with a firm grip on both arms but no handcuffs A spokesman for the National Police in Alicante said: 'National Police officers have arrested a fugitive in Benidorm who allegedly sexually abused children in the UK. 'He was tracked down to the Costa Blanca after fleeing his home country when he was discovered he was under investigation. 'The National Crime Agency has cooperated in this operation. 'The investigation began when a specialist anti-fugitive unit discovered the wanted man was on Spain's eastern coast. Marched to a police car by officers, the alleged pedophile changed his appearance after fleeing to Costa Blanca 'He was the subject of a European Arrest Warrant for allegedly sexually abusing the two minors over a period of time. 'According to the UK authorities, he would regularly go into their bedroom to sexually molest them. After discovering he was being investigated, he fled to the Costa Blanca where he changed his appearance to hamper his identification and detention. 'He was arrested in Benidorm.' The detention happened on Wednesday. It was not clear today if the Brit has agreed to be flown back to the UK or is fighting extradition. final visit to the beach she sat with her eyes closed and reflected A grandmother has been granted her dying wish to sit at the beach one last time with her children. Michelle Humphrey, 54, from Shepparton in Victoria's northeast, had always loved the beach. She would close her eyes and just listen while her children messed about, playing for hours in the sunshine and sand. But her battle with breast cancer made a trip to the seaside a challenge. Michelle Humphrey, 54, from Shepparton in Victoria's northeast, had always loved the beach. She would close her eyes and just listen while her children messed about, playing for hours in the sunshine and sand As her cancer spread, and with only months to live, Ms Humphrey's dying wish was to see the sea one last time. The mother-of-four was granted her wish with the help of Ambulance Victoria and the Mordialloc Life Saving Club before her death on Tuesday, February 26. Her children, Alex, Victoria, Sebastian, and Charlotte, were with her on her final visit. They sat together in the sand as Michelle closed her eyes and reflected on previous visits to different beaches throughout her life. She reminisced with her children about trips to Torquay, and to Robe in South Australia. Alex has described the final visit as bittersweet. During her final visit to the beach Michelle Humphrey, 54, from Shepparton in Victoria's northeast, sat with her eyes closed and reminisced with her children about previous trip 'It's a really awful thing seeing someone in a palliative environment, and this gave Mum the opportunity to be a person again, a person that does the things that they like to do as opposed to being a sick person that has to be in hospital. 'It gave her the chance to feel like she was just someone doing what they wanted to do on a normal afternoon.' In a picture taken on the day of the visit, Michelle was surrounded by her family. Michelle had been given six to nine months to live, but she was determined to meet her grandchildren. Her first grandchild, Evie, was born in mid-December 2018. Ms Humphrey was able to spend two-and-a-half months with her. Since her passing, Ms Humphrey's children have created a McGrath Foundation fundraising page for friends and family to donate in lieu of flowers. Two weeks on, they have raised over $7,500. 'When you lose someone who is so young she was only 54-years-old, and we're all in our 20s it just feels so unfair, and it feels like the world is against you,' Alex said. 'I think that the fundraising has helped us give meaning to something that has no meaning.' Senior Tory Nick Boles has quit his local Conservative association following a rift over his stance on Brexit. The former minister said he was resigning with 'immediate effect' because he thinks a no deal Brexit, which his association supports, will do 'great harm'. Mr Boles wants a closer Norway-style relationship with Europe after leaving the EU and has been leading efforts to give MPs more say in the handling of the Brexit process. Senior Tory Nick Boles has quit his local Conservative association following a rift over his stance on Brexit He had been facing efforts by local activists in the Grantham and Stamford Conservative Association to dump him as the party's candidate for the next general election. Mr Boles said he will stay on as MP and continue to take the Conservative whip at Westminster 'if it is offered to me on acceptable terms'. Chief Whip Julian Smith made clear that Mr Boles was a 'valued member of the Conservative parliamentary party which I hope will continue to benefit from his ideas and drive'. But a senior official at Mr Boles' local association said they had been 'betrayed' and called on Mr Boles to take the 'honourable course' and quit as an MP. In a letter to members obtained by the BBC, Mr Boles said 'a division has opened up between me and members of the association executive', adding: 'Many of them are convinced that the Government should take the UK out of the European Union without a deal. 'While I have consistently argued that Brexit must be delivered, and have voted for the Prime Minister's deal every time she has brought it to the House of Commons, I am certain that crashing out of the EU without a deal would do great harm to the British people and have done everything in my power to prevent it.' Nick Boles said he was resigning with 'immediate effect' because he thinks a no deal Brexit, which his association supports, will do 'great harm' He said he was disappointed the association executive had tried to force his hand on the issue of fighting the next election, adding: 'I have concluded that I am not willing to do what would be necessary to restore a reasonable working relationship with a group of people whose values and values are so much at odds with my own.' Writing in The Times, Boles expressed pride in the achievements of the cross-party alliance of MPs he helped bring together to campaign for the Commons to be given the opportunity to vote on different Brexit options if Theresa May's deal is rejected again. 'For some of us this enterprise has exacted a personal and political price,' he said. 'It has unleashed a torrent of vile threats online, especially for the women. 'In my case it has caused the final disintegration of my relationship with my local Conservative association. Although I will remain a Conservative MP until the next election I will not stand for re-election in Grantham and Stamford. 'But I have no regrets. This is how politics must work if we are to bring our divided nation together. 'Men and women of goodwill setting aside party-political differences and co-operating in the national interest.' Local association chairman Philip Sagar told ITV News that he was 'sickened' by Boles's 'victim narrative'. 'There is no plot,' he said. 'The idea there is a witch hunt is nonsense. 'I always believed he wouldn't stand again. Now at last he has told us but only because we forced his hand.' Councillor Martin Hill, vice president of the association, said 'Nick has been at odds with the local party and the Prime Minister for some time' and the announcement 'does not come as a complete surprise'. 'I understand that it is Mr Boles' intention to carry on as the MP for Grantham and Stamford until the next general election despite being elected to represent us in Parliament,' he said. The process of selecting a new candidate would begin on March 28 'or earlier if Mr Boles takes the honourable course and resigns his seat'. 'This is very disappointing for us all as once again we have been betrayed by our parliamentary representative,' he added. However, Boles insisted he had 'no regrets' about his decision. Treasury minister Robert Jenrick said Mr Boles 'remains a valued part' of the Conservative parliamentary party 'and I will continue to work closely with him as my constituency neighbour and good friend'. Cops have taken a 24-year-old construction worker into custody for the killing of Gambino crime family boss Francesco 'Franky Boy' Cali. US Marshals apprehended Anthony Comello from his Brick, New Jersey home on Saturday morning and he's expected to face murder charges for the brutal killing, NYPD announced in a press conference Saturday. Comello, originally from Staten Island, is believed to have no ties to the mob himself - with initial reports indicating cops think the murder was the work of a lovesick madman. His dispute with Cali may have stemmed from the mob boss's refusal to let Comello date his niece, who was inside the home when Cali was gunned down outside, a police source told the Daily Beast. Comello worked odd construction jobs has been described as 'a complete nut' and as a 'conspiracy theory type', various sources say. Anthony Comello, 24, was arrested on Saturday in New Jersey in connection with the murder of Gambino crime boss Francesco 'Franky Boy' Cali Comello is not a mobster and is believed to have killed Cali in a dispute over a woman Comello was arrested on Saturday from his Brick, New Jersey home and is currently in New Jersey jail Crime scene investigators discovered a stash of weapons while searching Comellos Staten Island home on Saturday, sources told WCBS-TV. Comello claimed he was high on marijuana and was acting in self defense because Cali had a gun, but the sources say police have so far found no evidence to confirm that claim. Police say Comello has a limited criminal history, including a parking ticket he got on Staten Island on the day of the murder. He's currently being held in a New Jersey jail and police are are investigating to see if others were involved in the crime. On Saturday a pick-up truck matching one sighted at the crime scene and belonging to Comello was also recovered by police. Police were led to the suspect after finding a finger print on the license plate of Cali's silver Escalade, which had fallen from the vehicle after the killer crashed into his car. In surveillance footage of the murder, a man can be seen handing the plate back to him before opening fire. Comello is expected to be charged with the murder, NYPD Chief of Detectives Dermot Shea said in a press conference on Saturday. Shea also added that Cali's mafia ties are still being considered in the investigation. Police haven't yet determined a specific motive and are working to see if Comello was working alone or was hired to carry out the killing. It's not yet clear whether Comello has a criminal history. 'While we believe we have the shooter in custody in this incident, the investigation is far from over,' Shea said. The murder weapon, a 9mm pistol, has not yet been recovered. Staten Island man Anthony Comello, 24, (above) is the suspect behind the vicious killing of mobster Francesco 'Franky Boy' Cali' on Wednesday, marking the first assassination of a New York mob boss in 33 years The murder of Gambino crime family boss Frank Cali has stoked fears that the Mafia may be returning to New York City after more than three decades of peace. Cali, 53, was seen shaking hands with his killer moments before being shot dead Police were led to the suspect after finding a finger print on the license plate of Cali's silver Escalade (above), which had fallen from the vehicle after the killer crashed into his car The deadly interaction was captured in full from a surveillance camera installed at Cali's Staten Island mansion. The 53-year-old can be seen heading out the front door of his home on the evening of March 13, after a blue pickup truck reversed forcefully into his stationary Cadillac Escalade. The footage - which had to be obtained by a warrant - shows Cali and the man engaging in a conversation, before shaking hands. The man then passes Cali a licence plate that had fallen off his Escalade. But as the crime boss turns his back to place the plate in the trunk of his car, the hitman, believed to be between 25 and 40-years-old, unsheathes a 9mm pistol and opens fire. The 53-year-old can be seen heading out the front door of his home on the evening of March 13, after a blue pickup truck reversed heavily into his stationary Cadillac Escalade Cali's home in the Todt Hill neighborhood of Staten Island is pictured 'Its not like they came out, started a fistfight,' a police source told the New York Post. 'The importance of that is its almost as if proof of the concept that hitting the car was contrived. 'It doesnt look like there was any rage.' The gunman pulled the trigger 12 times, striking Cali at least six. Attempting the flee the onslaught of bullets, Cali tried to hide beneath his car, which initially led investigators to believe he'd been run over in the hit. But on Friday, the city's Medical Examiner's Office determined he had died from several gunshot wounds. Family members poured out of the house. Papa! Papa! wailed one man before lying on the grass, sobbing. Investigators with the NYPD were forced to obtain a warrant to review the surveillance video, after the victim's relatives' were allegedly unwillling to comply with the probe. And on Thursday, authorities descended on the home in abundance, collecting cellphones, laptops and other digital devices to help aid their search for Cali's killer. Investigators are seen with forensic equipment outside the Cali's home on Thursday Cali's murder is the first hit on a Mafia boss since John Gotti arranged the assassination of then-Gambino head Paul Castellano outside a Manhattan steakhouse in 1985 Cali's murder is the first hit on a Mafia boss since John 'Dapper Don' Gotti arranged the assassination of then-Gambino head Paul Castellano in 1985. 'We thought those days were over,' Mayor Bill de Blasio said of the slaying. 'Very surprising, but I guess old habits die hard.' For Cali's slaying, the police were previously thought to be considering Gene Gotti, John's younger brother, who was released from prison after 29 years just six-months ago. One of the theories apparently under consideration is that Gotti, 72, is possibly trying to assert his authority over the Gambino crime family, but so far, he has not been named a suspect, or even a person of interest. His older brother had assumed control of the criminal organization after ordering the assassination of his predecessor, Paul Castellano, outside a Manhattan steakhouse in 1985. John Gotti stood at the helm of the Gambino family until his conviction on murder, racketeering and conspiracy charges in 1992. He died in prison of cancer in 2002. For Cali's slaying, the police are thought to be turning their attention to Gene Gotti (above), John's younger brother, who was released from prison after 29 years in September Cali kept a much lower profile than John Gotti (above) and was killed in far less spectacular fashion than Paul Castellano, who was gunned down outside a Manhattan steakhouse in 1085 Gotti was convicted in Castellano's murder and a multitude of other crimes in 1992 Cali, who had close ties to Sicilian mafia, was believed to have taken the reigns of the criminal enterprise in 2015. Calis only mob-related criminal conviction came a decade ago, when he pleaded guilty in an extortion scheme involving a failed attempt to build a NASCAR track on Staten Island. He was sentenced to 16 months behind bars and was released in 2009. In that case, authorities intercepted conversations shedding light on his quiet underworld command. At a 2008 bail hearing, a prosecutor said Cali was seen 'as a man of influence and power by organized crime members in Italy.' Mafia heir Giovanni Gambino told DailyMail.com that 53-year-old 'Franky Boy' was a constant feature in the New York charity scene and was someone he looked up to growing up. 'Nobody gets away with anything', warned Mafia heir Giovanni Gambino (left) Former Gambino hitman John Alite, who has confessed to involvement in several murders, believes that retribution is inevitable 'He was the good wise guy that went after bad wise guys', Giovanni told DailyMailcom. 'The wise guy that showed class. He was the one that had the 'it' factor, growing up with my friends. We all looked up to him. He gave a great impression.' 'Nobody gets away with anything . Especially killing a good man,' he added. Former Gambino hitman John Alite, who has confessed to involvement in several murders, believes that retribution is inevitable. If this is still the Mafia, that guys got to get killed that did the shooting,' said Alite, 56, to USA Today. 'And anybody that helped them. Anybody who was associated with this murder, whether it was mob related or not, a couple of guys got to get killed now.' Turkish authorities have released a CCTV picture of the New Zealand mosque suspected killer after he had an extended stay in the country in 2016. Australian-born Brenton Tarrant, 28, allegedly livestreamed his sickening attack on two Christchurch mosques on Friday, leaving 49 dead. Ankara on Friday said it was investigating Tarrant's multiple visits to Turkey, and who he might have met while he was there during an 'extended period of time in the country.' The Bulgarian government has also said it was looking into Tarrant, who apparently visited the country late last year, as well as Serbia, Croatia, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Tarrant is said to have set off on a journey around the world in 2011, taking a particular interest in the Balkans and Turkey and the former conflicts between Christians and Muslims. Turkish authorities say this shows the arrival of Brenton Tarrant, in Istanbul's Ataturk International airport in Turkey on March 2016 Tarrant pictured in North Korea in this undated photo - he travelled across Asia after leaving New Zealand in 2011 A map showing the countries Brenton Tarrant is said to have visited during his seven years of travelling from 2011 to 2018 Along his weapons Tarrant had scrawled names in English and Cyrillic of numerous military figures - many of them Europeans involved in fighting the Ottomans in the 15th and 16th centuries. A few took part in the Crusades, centuries earlier. In a previous Facebook message about his sojourn in Pakistan on Facebook, Tarrant wrote: 'an incredible place filled with the most earnest, kindhearted and hospitable people in the world,' The Sydney Morning Herald reported. 'The beauty of hunza and nagar valley in autumn cannot be beat,' he stated. Tarrant claimed in a so-called 'manifesto' to have made money trading Bitcoin, enabling him to travel the world. He is said to have visited a wide range of countries including North Korea, Japan and India. He visited Bulgaria from November 9 to 15 last year claiming he wanted 'to visit historical sites and study the history of the Balkan country', according to Bulgaria's public prosecutor Sotir Tsatsarov. Tarrant reportedly went travelling in 2011 after his father's death Tsatsarov said he hoped the inquiry would establish if this was 'correct or if he had other objectives'. Turkish border authorities are also examining two trips by Tarrant to the country in 2016, CCTV footage capturing him walking through the airport in March, 2016. A senior Turkish official says Tarrant spent an 'extended period of time in the country' across multiple trips. He says the suspect may have also travelled to countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa. The official says an investigation is underway of 'the suspect's movements and contacts within the country'. A picture posted on social media by a Pakistani hotel manager in 2018 appears to show him in the country during his time abroad. But at some point he seems to have become obsessed with terrorist attacks that happened in Europe between 2016 and 2017. His ranting manifesto is filled with Neo-Nazi ideology and hatred for Muslim people. The alleged terrorist was brought up in rural New South Wales town of Grafton which he left shortly after his father Rodney died of cancer when Tarrant was in his early 20s. One woman who knew him before he left Grafton speculated to Daily Mail Australia that 'something happened to him' during his time abroad. She also recognised him as being the man in the massacre video. The alleged Christchurch mosque killer was pictured in Pakistan, as he wrote about the wonderful people who lived there Another image from Tarrant's social media appears to show him taking photos in the highlands of Pakistan in 2018 She said: 'I know he's been travelling since he left Grafton. He has been travelling overseas, anywhere and everywhere. 'I would say it's something in the nature of his travels, something he's been around. 'I know he's been to lots of different countries trying to experience lots of different things in life and I would say something's happened in that time in his travels,' she said. In a twisted manifesto that he posted online before the massacre, Tarrant described himself as an 'ordinary, white man', who was born into a working class, low income family of Scottish, Irish and English decent. Tarrant's father, Rodney, who was a competitive athlete, died of cancer in 2010 aged just 49 and his mother and sister are rumoured to still live in the area. Kim Kardashian has put a call out to her fans for help housing a reformed criminal who was President Trump's guest at his State of the Union address in February. The 38-year-old reality TV star took to Twitter on Friday to plead for someone to help find a Tennessee apartment for Matthew Charles, who in 1996 was sentenced to 35 years in prison for selling crack cocaine and other related offenses. In the socialite's tweet she explained that even with her planning to hand over five years of payments before Charles moves in, those supporting Charles were not having luck finding a home for him. 'Matthew Charles's lease application was rejected again [because] of his criminal record (even [with] me paying his rent in advance),' she began. 'If there are any landlords [with] a 2 bedroom in Nashville willing to give Mr Charles a 2nd chance, contact mocapt615@gmail.com. 'Serious inquiries only, thank you [PRAYER HANDS EMOJI].' Help: Kim Kardashian, 38, took to Twitter on Friday to plead for someone to help find her an apartment for Matthew Charles, a reformed criminal Matthew Charles (pictured) was released from prison in January this year thanks to the First Step Act but he's lacking a recent credit history A friend of Charles has been by his side as he seeks a permanent accommodation of his own with the hindrance of a lacking credit history. Even after Kardashian pledged to pay his rent on Monday, by Friday Charles had received his second rejection after submitting a series of lease applications. They are still waiting to hear back about other applications and remain hopeful someone will pull through with an offer. Speaking about the man, who was in Louisiana Friday on a speaking engagement, Tim Hardiman explained that The Keeping Up With The Kardashians star sought their approval before sharing Charles' situation with her 60.1 million followers. But she's not the only one who has offered a helping hand. 'Kim's camp contacted us, and she offered to tweet about it. We thought it would be a good idea to open up, see what opportunities are out there,' Hardiman told The Tennessean. 'I know people will make exceptions for him, it's about trying to find a good place for him. Several people have reached out, are willing to help.' Kardashian (pictured in 2018) helped convince President Trump to enact the legislation reform Other than the number of bedrooms, it's not clear what the exact requirements are on Charles' side. Hardiman said in an Instagram caption on an image of Kardashian: 'Matthew is overwhelmed by Kim's generous gift and from all the support he's received from that initial Instagram post last week.' Charles was released from prison in January this year thanks to the First Step Act, criminal justice reform legislation which Kardashian herself helped convince Donald Trump to enact. Charles redeemed himself after being locked up for nonviolent drug offenses. He found God while behind bars, completed more than 30 bible studies, became a law clerk, taught GED classes, and mentored fellow inmates. Ivanka Trump (right), the daughter and assistant to Trump, hugs Matthew Charles after President Donald Trump delivered his State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress Kim Kardashian tweeted about Matthew Charles and Alice Johnson's SOTU appearances On January 3 this year he was the first prisoner released as a result of the Formerly Incarcerated Reenter Society Transformed Safely Transitioning Every Person (FIRST STEP) Act. 'My Administration worked closely with members of both parties to sign the First Step Act into law. This legislation reformed sentencing laws that have wrongly and disproportionately harmed the African-American community,' Trump said in his speech last month before explaining Charles' story of being incarcerated aged 30. 'The First Step Act gives non-violent offenders the chance to re-enter society as productive, law-abiding citizens. Now, States across the country are following our lead. America is a Nation that believes in redemption... 'Now, Matthew is the very first person to be released from prison under the First Step Act. Matthew, on behalf of all Americans: welcome home.' Kim Kardashian and Alice Marie Johnson at Variety and Rolling Stone's Criminal Justice Summit at the Jeremy Hotel in West Hollywood on November 14, 2018 Kim is clearly passionate about criminal justice and made headlines after her campaign to free Alice Marie Johnson proved successful in June of last year. The daughter of Kris Jenner successfully campaigned for Johnson to be pardoned by Trump after she spent 21 years in prison for a non-violent drug offence. 'Kim has been a champion for criminal justice reform and her support for not only Matthew but countless others in this situation has been unwavering,' Hardiman continued in his Instagram post. 'I'm forever grateful that she's chosen to use her voice for such a noble cause.' Kim previously revealed she is committed to working on other similar cases and helping many more people. 'It's a longer-term mission for me. I never started out thinking I was being political,' she said. 'I just thought I was helping people and I knew that I had the opportunity or the resources, so I used them and, you know, it worked out really well for Alice. I definitely saw a lot of compassion from the White House with her and I really do believe it's just the beginning.' A high profile lawyer has called for Senator Fraser Anning to be charged after he took a swipe at a protester who egged him during a press conference. A heated confrontation between Mr Anning and a 17-year-old was caught on camera on Saturday after the boy broke an egg on the Senator's head. In the footage from the event in Moorabbin, Melbourne, the independent Queensland senator appears to slap the boy across the face multiple times. Adam Houda, a lawyer who has defended men charged with terrorist-related offences in the past, is now demanding Mr Anning face charges for his actions. Scroll down for video High profile lawyer Adam Houda has called for Fraser Anning to be charged after he took a swipe at a protester who egged him during a press conference On twitter, the high profile lawyer said it was a clear case of assault on a child. 'I've just seen the footage of the Fraser Anning egging. Anning reacts by assaulting the young man. The police are now obligated to charge Anning,' he tweeted. 'I've been a lawyer for over two decades and in my opinion there is no argument that Anning was acting in self-defence.' Video footage from the event showed the young man approach Mr Anning from behind, as he spoke in front of a camera. The young man, who filmed the altercation, then slammed an egg onto the back of the senator's head. Anning then spun and took a swipe at the youngster. A short scuffle ensued before the young man was tackled to the ground by other members of the public. Mr Houda, who is the former lawyer of Sydney Lindt Cafe siege gunman Man Haron Monis, has offered to represent the teenager free of charge. Adam Houda, known as the go-to lawyer for men charged with terrorist-related offences, is now demanding Mr Anning face charges for his actions Fraser Anning took a swipe at a left-wing activist at a protest rally after the 17-year-old cracked an egg on his head Senator Anning said the real cause of bloodshed on New Zealand streets on Friday is the immigration program that allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place 'The video evidence is clear. Anning has NO defence. I'll be monitoring the situation carefully. 'I've never chased a client, but I've put it out there that I'm happy to help him (pro bono) It's now up to him and his parents.' The teen, from the affluent Melbourne suburb of Hampton, was arrested at the scene and removed from the premises. His details were taken before he was released. Victoria Police released a statement saying they are continuing to investigate the incident 'in its entirety' including the actions of Mr Anning and others. Disturbing footage has also emerged showing Mr Anning's supporters holding the boy to the ground in a choke hold as others taunted the teen. 'You are nothing but a weak f****** human being' a man could be heard saying. Mr Anning has been slammed by politicians for his extremist stance, as Australians pay their respects to the victims of terrorist attack (pictured: man who egged Anning) Another man could be heard saying to remove his hand from the boy's neck. The egging came a day after Mr Anning released a statement where he blamed Muslim immigration for the terror attacks in Christchurch, New Zealand on Friday, where 50 people were killed. 'The real cause of the bloodshed on New Zealand streets today is the immigration program which allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place,' his statement said. He faced wide-spread backlash following the release of his statement. A Change.org petition calling for Mr Anning to be removed from parliament has been signed over 250,000 times. 'Senator Fraser Anning has no place in the government of our democratic and multicultural country,' the petition says. Attendees of the event held the young man on the ground after the physical altercation A short scuffle ensued before the man was tackled to the ground by other members of the public 'We request that he be expelled from his position as Senator, and investigated by law enforcement agencies for supporting right wing terrorism.' The petition speaks about Mr Annging's statements about the Christchurch attack. 'We call on the Australian government to expel this man who blames victims for their own violent deaths, and uses references to genocide to further his hateful agenda,' the petition said. 'There is no place in Australian government for Neo-Nazis. There is no place for bigotry. There is no place for hate speech.' Politicians have roundly condemned Mr Anning for his comments. Prime Minister Scott Morrison also hit out at the independent senator's comments in a tweet on Friday. 'The remarks by Senator Fraser Anning blaming the murderous attacks by a violent, right-wing, extremist terrorist in New Zealand on immigration are disgusting. These views have no place in Australia, let alone in the Australian Parliament.' Labor frontbencher Tony Burke told the ABC 'the normalisation of bigotry is something that is not only confined to him'. 'We need to call it out, we need to make sure that no way any member of parliament fosters it. He wants the conflict and he wants the notoriety,' he said on Saturday. Advertisement Australians across the nation came together on Saturday night to remember the victims of the New Zealand terror attack. Thousands attended candlelit vigils as the Sydney Opera House bore the image of a fern, New Zealand's national symbol. Meanwhile in Melbourne, the iconic Flinders Street Station was lit up in the colours of the New Zealand flag in a moving show of solidarity. Sydney's iconic Opera House had an image of the Silver Fern of New Zealand projected onto its sails Melbourne's iconic Flinders Street Station was lit up in the colours of the New Zealand flag in a show of solidarity Mourners across Australia have gathered in major cities to pay their respects to victims of the Christchurch attacks Forty-nine prayer mats were laid out on the steps of the State Library of Victoria, one for each victim killed in Christchurch A number of Melbourne's landmarks are lit up in the New Zealand flag colours in a show of solidarity Melbourne's inner-city played host to thousands of mourners on Saturday night, the usually vibrant party town brought to a sombre standstill. Further up the road from the station at the State Library of Victory, hundreds of mourners laid prayer mats and candles. Forty-nine prayer mats were laid on the steps of the State Library - one for each victim who lost their lives from Friday's attacks. Floral tributes and hand-written messages were strewn across the grass. 'We stand with you. We grieve alongside you. Love will triumph. Kia Kaha,' one read. Kia Kaha is a Maori saying meaning 'stay strong'. Forty-nine people were killed and another 48 injured after Australian gunman fired guns at two mosques in Christchurch Melbourne's inner-city played host to thousands of mourners on Saturday night, the usually vibrant party town brought to a sombre standstill New South Wales Premier Glady Berejiklian said the display was a show of solidarity with the victims of Christchurch Handwritten notes and flowers were left on the front step of the Islamic Council of Victoria on Saturday afternoon A Catholic church in gunman Brenton Tarrant's hometown of Grafton hosted 50 mourners on Saturday afternoon (pictured) The Opera House's official Twitter account wrote: 'Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the tragic events in Christchurch.' New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the display was a 'deep sense of unity and compassion' for the wider Muslim community. 'I want to stress that an attack on one section of our community is an attack on all of us and we will band together, and we will heal together.' Prayers were read at the State Library of Victoria by imams on Saturday evening Religious leaders spoke at Melbourne on Saturday night following New Zealand's worst ever mass shooting Flowers, candles and prayer mats strewn along the steps of the State Library of Victoria Hundreds attended a vigil at the Gold Coast Mosque - which openly invited members of the community to bring messages of support and flowers for the victims. The Catholic Church in Grafton, NSW, where alleged gunman Brenton Tarrant grew up, also hosted 50 mourners on Saturday night. Flags across the country are being flown at half-mast. A man has been stabbed to death in rural Victoria just five years after his aunt was brutally murdered. Paramedics were called to One Tree Hill Lookout near Bendigo in regional Victoria on Friday night after reports a man had been stabbed in the abdomen. Steven Judge, 24, died at the scene, despite desperate attempts by paramedics to revive him. Steven Judge (pictured) was stabbed to death on a night out with his brother and friends Police launched a major manhunt for his attacker, which included a helicopter search from above. Homicide Squad detectives arrested a man, 19, from the Bendigo suburb of Kennington in neighbouring Flora Hill on Saturday morning. He was still assisting detectives with their inquiries later that night but no charges have yet been laid as of early Sunday morning. Mr Judge's death comes five years after his aunt Fiona Warzywoda was fatally stabbed six times in broad daylight outside a Melbourne shopping centre in 2014. Emergency crews were called to the popular Bendigo lookout on Friday night Ms Warzywoda's estranged partner Craig McDermott was sentenced for 25 years in 2016 for the brutal murder. Mr Judge had been on a night out with his older brother and friends when an argument broke out and the cafe kitchen attendant's life was tragically cut short, Nine News reported. It's understood his brother rushed to neighbouring homes to get help. 'Not sure what sort of activities were happening up there but it's surprising to hear that something as tragic as this has occured,' one resident told Nine News. Police remained at the scene for most of Saturday as investigations continue Steven Judge's tragic death come five years his aunt was brutally murdered in 2014 Mr Judge has been remembered by friends as a loyal, loving and good bloke. 'So sad, he was such a nice kid in school,' one friend posted on Facebook. The road leading to the popular walking and bike trail at One Tree Lookout was closed to the public for most of Saturday as police continued their investigations. Steven Judge's aunt Fiona Warzywoda (pictured) was fatally stabbed in broad daylight outside a Melbourne shopping centre in 2014. Her estranged partner was sentenced to 25 years jail Police are also investigating a separate stabbing in the Melbourne suburb of St Kilda on Friday night. A 15-year-old boy was taken to hospital in a stable condition to be treated for lacerations to his stomach and head. Police believe those involved in the altercation were known to each other. Anyone with information about either incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 The university academic at the center of the Cambridge Analytica data mining scandal is suing Mark Zuckerberg for defamation after claiming Facebook used him as a 'scapegoat'. Cambridge University researcher Aleksandr Kogan was behind an app that helped to harvest data from up to 87 million Facebook users. He is taking social media founder Zuckerberg to court after the company said that he had lied about how the data was going to be used. Zuckerberg and other executives have said Kogan told them the data was for academic purposes not political campaigns. But Kogan's lawyer, Steve Cohen, said: 'Alex did not lie, Alex was not a fraud, Alex did not deceive them, this was not a scam. 'Facebook knew exactly what this app was doing, or should have known. Facebook desperately needed a scapegoat, and Alex was their scapegoat.' Kogan is not thought to be asking for a specific amount of money in the case. Facebook, founded by Mark Zuckerberg, left, has blamed Aleksandr Kogan, right, for misusing data, while he claims they have used him as a scapegoat Facebook has been embroiled in scandal since revelations that data analytics firm Cambridge Analytica misused personal information from as many as 87 million Facebook accounts. Cambridge Analytica was founded by wealthy Republican donor Robert Mercer and Trump adviser Steve Bannon. It received the data from a Facebook personality-quiz app that former psychology professor Kogan, 32, created. That app collected data on both users and their Facebook friends. A spokeswoman for Facebook called the lawsuit 'frivolous' and said it was from someone who 'violated our policies and put people's data at risk'. Facebook says 'This Is Your Digital Life', which was downloaded by 270,000 people, also gave Kogan access to their friends's profile data. This was passed to British communications firm Cambridge Analytica and was used to help elect US President Donald Trump. But the company has blamed Kogan for misusing it, while he claims they and Facebook have used him as a scapegoat. They issued a statement saying: 'The entire company is outraged we were deceived.' Zuckerberg, called Kogan's actions a 'breach of trust'. In a lengthy post on his Facebook page Zuckerberg added: 'In 2015, we learned from journalists at The Guardian that Kogan had shared data from his app with Cambridge Analytica.' The University of Cambridge lecturer told CBS's 60 Minutes he was 'sincerely sorry' for the data mining, but insisted there was a widespread belief that users knew their data was being sold and shared. 'Back then we thought it was fine... I think that core idea that we had - that everybody knows and nobody cares - was fundamentally flawed. And for that, I'm sincerely sorry,' he said. Billionaire Robert Mercer founded Cambridge Analytica along with Trump adviser Steve Bannon. Mercer is pictured here in 2017 A woman was killed on Thursday night after jumping in front of a moving vehicle believed to be driven by a drunk driver, according to Arizona authorities. The Scottsdale police responded to the 65th Street and Indian School Road at approximately 8pm for reports that a person was in the road. There they found 24-year-old Summer Leann Crosswhite in the road with 'life threatening injuries.' Scottsdale police found Summer Leann Crosswhite, 24, (left and right) lying on 65th Street and Indian School Road with 'life threatening injuries' The woman and her friend, 21-year-old Courtney Kiser (left), had been drinking in downtown Scottsdale Crosswhite was rushed to a local hospital but was pronounced dead at the scene, ABC 15 reports. The woman and her friend, 21-year-old Courtney Kiser, had been drinking in downtown Scottsdale. Kiser is then said to have been driving home with Crosswhite riding in the passenger seat. The two got into an argument while driving. Crosswhite and Kiser were said to have gotten into an argument resulting in Crosswhite jumping from the vehicle Kiser was arrested at the scene and charged with DUI It was then that Crosswhite is said to have opened her door and exited the vehicle. Kiser stayed at the scene and was arrested for a DUI, according to police. Investigators are still looking into the details of the incident. Travis Sanford, 33, was killed Friday morning at a home in Courtland, Mississippi Someone fatally shot the former boyfriend of a Mississippi woman who was burned to death, and investigators are questioning a suspect. Travis Sanford, 33, was killed Friday morning at a home in Courtland, Panola County Sheriff Dennis Darby said. District Attorney John Champion confirmed that he was Jessica Chambers' boyfriend when she was burned to death in Courtland in 2014. Sanford was incarcerated at the time and was cleared in her death, Darby said. The suspect in Sanford's death fired a shotgun while running from Sanford's house about 7:30am on Friday morning the Clarion Ledger of Jackson quoted Darby as saying. Sanford's girlfriend and two small children were in the home, he said. 'It's terrible,' Darby said of the shooting. 'We are trying to find out what led to the shooting.' Darby said the suspect and Sanford had been in the home for a period of time prior to the shooting. Panola County Coroner Gracie Gulledge said Sanford's body was being sent to the state medical examiner for an autopsy. Jessica Chambers was found burned and zombie-like when she walked out of the woods in December of 2014 trying to say her attacker's name. She died shortly after Police said Chambers (left) had been associated with Tellis (right) for about two weeks before she was killed but her family had no idea who he was Darby said Sanford was ruled out as having any role in Chambers' death. Chambers, 19, died in a hospital in December 2014, a day after being set on fire in the town of 500 in north Mississippi, about 65 miles south of Memphis, Tennessee. She was found walking toward first responders with burns over almost her entire body. She finally died early the next morning in a Memphis hospital, holding her mother's hand. Two juries have deadlocked on whether to convict a different man, Quinton Tellis, in her death. Prosecutors had said cellphone evidence showed Tellis and Chambers at similar locations, and they played videotaped interrogations in which Tellis repeatedly changed his story when confronted with new evidence. Tellis initially denied seeing Chambers late in the day, but later admitted he had been with her up until about an hour before her death. Quinton Tellis, 29, was charged with capital murder in the burning death of Jessica Chambers. The jury was deadlocked and a mistrial was declared after two days of deliberation Defense lawyers said the prosecution timeline was implausible, and presented testimony from 10 firefighters and emergency medical workers who said they heard Chambers say 'Eric' set her on fire. Tellis faces another murder indictment in Louisiana, where he's accused in the torture death of Meing-Chen Hsiao (above) Mississippi authorities have not decided whether to try Tellis a third time. He is currently jailed in Ouachita Parish, Louisiana, where the prosecutor says a grand jury will consider charges in the death of Ming-Chen Hsiao, a Taiwanese woman fatally stabbed in Monroe in 2015. Tellis pleaded guilty in 2016 to unauthorized use of her credit card and was sentenced to 10 years in prison. After finishing his sentence for that crime, he was arrested on a charge of murder in her death. No decision has been made yet on whether he will face a third trial in Chambers' death. A pharmaceutical consultant dressed as James Bond, accused of raping a fellow costume-party guest, has finally been cleared after three trials. University of Edinburgh graduate Rowan Nidd from St. Albans was accused by the party goer, who had drunk 12 glasses of Prosecco at the event. She admitted she was 'close to' 10/10 drunk when she found herself at Mr Nidd's former Islington flat in the early hours, insisting he forced himself on her. Rowan Nidd, pictured outside Harrow Crown Court where he was found not guilty of attempted rape; sexual assault and assault by penetration Yesterday at Harrow Crown Court Mr Nidd was found not guilty of rape; attempted rape; sexual assault and assault by penetration on December 6, 2015. The woman gave a video-recorded statement to police less than 48 hours later and after a lengthy investigation Mr Nidd first appeared at Highbury Corner Magistrates Court in April, 2017, charged with the four counts. He always denied the accusations, claiming the woman had been flirting with him all night and thrust her hand down both the front and back of his trousers and even she admitted she kissed Mr Nidd. A jury was sworn in at the first trial at Blackfriars Crown Court and the case opened, but had to be scrapped before hearing any evidence. In May last year a second trial resulted in a hung jury after they failed to reach any verdicts on any of the charges. Mr Nidd suggested the false allegations were motivated by the woman potentially becoming unpopular in a social group they both belonged to for chasing him, knowing another female member was 'infatuated' with him. At the latest trial, giving evidence behind a curtain, she said: 'I have snapshots of memory and some of these are of the worst moments that night and they are clear. 'I came around to feel my underwear being tugged off my legs, to him doing this all to me. I was asleep, I was drunk and wasn't able to consent to anything he was doing.' Earlier the jury viewed the video-recorded interview in which she said: 'I was shocked at what had been happening, I felt woozy, I didn't feel me. 'I didn't want anyone else to know what happened, I was embarrassed. I was p***ed off at what he had done. 'I could feel him, I could hear him, his breathing. I wasn't dreaming, it was too realistic.' Mr Nidd always denied attempting and then briefly having minimal intercourse with the complainant and performing two sex acts on her, insisting he had to reject her advances. Harrow Crown Court, north west London, where Rowan Nidd was yesterday cleared of rape She dismissed the significance of kissing Mr Nidd at the pub costume party that night. 'I think there was some, not much, quite fleeting. It was just that party mode, it's nice to flirt a bit.' Following the party she got a mini-cab to Mr Nidd's basement flat and during the journey allegedly announced: 'I get really horny, slutty when I'm drunk.' She could not recall if she used the words, but said if she had: 'That's a lot of bravado.' On the police video she said: 'I know I didn't want anything to happen. I was struggling to walk in a straight line, I remember falling into the wall. 'I came around in his bed and he was pushing against me. I said to myself: 'It's not happening, it's not happening'.' She texted a friend: 'I thought I was going to an after-party and I've woken up at Rowan's. I don't know what to do. 'He's been trying to have sex with me, but he won't stop. He's taken my underwear off. I came around to him on me again.' The former events organiser told the jury: 'I was shocked waking up to him doing that. I was so drunk I didn't even know where the door was to leave.' When cross-examined she denied the social group for City professionals that they both belonged to was more of a drinking club, with the female members often 'coarse' and 'boozy' on night's out and 'slapping bottoms.' 'There wasn't many, many drunken nights and I didn't find Rowan attractive,' she said, denying playing with a whip in a 'sexually provocative manner' during the party. Mr Nidd also says she lifted her toga costume above her legs, revealing more of her body-paint, announcing: 'This is where the gold ends.' A New York woman gave birth to the biggest baby on record at her local hospital despite being told she had less than 15 percent chance of getting pregnant. Joi Buckley delivered 15-lbs baby girl Harper - who weighed the same as a six-month-old child and already had a full head of hair - when she arrived on Monday. 'I knew she was going to be big, but I didn't anticipate no 15-pound baby,' she told WETM. Scroll down for video Joi Buckley delivered little girl Harper Buckley Monday and she weighed 15 pounds at birth Buckley and her husband were told she was had less than a 15 percent chance of getting pregnant so adopted a girl. But two years later she got pregnant with her son The tot was 15 pounds and 5 ounces to be exact. She was a lengthy 23-and-a-quarter inches too. It means the infant is the largest Arnot Odgen Medical Center in Elmira has ever delivered. The hospital was keeping the baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to monitor her sugar and oxygen levels this week. She was 23-and-a-quarter inches long, the largest baby ever for Arnot Odgen Medical Center Records state the miracle baby weighed an additional 5 ounces and was born at 9.09am Although the miracle child was more than her parents could wish for, the mother explained it was tough not to have been discharged already. 'It's definitely hard,' Buckley said. 'But I know that she won't be in forever, she'll be coming home soon.' After all, little Harper has two siblings to meet. Hospital was keeping baby in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to monitor sugar and oxygen levels Buckley added: 'I knew she was going to be big, but I didn't anticipate no 15-pound baby' Her parents adopted a girl after hearing seven years ago that their chances of naturally conceiving were very slim. 'I still had some resentment,' Buckley admitted. 'So and so is pregnant, they have six kids, why are they getting pregnant again?' Then two years later the mother and her husband were shocked to discover she was pregnant. It's no wonder Buckley predicted their daughter would be on the larger side; when she gave birth for the first time their son weighed in at 11 pounds. 'The thing I've always wanted to do is be a mom, and finding out the first time I was overjoyed,' Buckley shared. The mother-of-three added advice for those yearning to conceive: 'Don't give up, cause it's right there. It's definitely right there 'cause my kids are total proof of that.' Advertisement Former UKIP leader Nigel Farage led a crowd of 200 Brexit supporters at the start of a 270-mile march from Sunderland to London. The March to Leave walk, organised by campaigners who want Britain to leave the EU with or without a deal, began at 9.30 this morning. Walkers expect to arrive in Parliament Square on March 29 where they will protest against the Government's handling of Brexit negotiations. Conservative MP Andrea Jenkyns and Labour MP Kate Hoey joined protesters to show their support for those who voted Leave in the 2016 referendum. Scroll down for video. Nigel Farage was surrounded by around 200 supporters who turned out this morning to call for the Government to make sure Britain leaves the EU whether a deal is in place by March 29 or not Nigel Farage celebrates with a pint in the Merry Go Round pub in Hartlepool after the March to Leave trek reached the end of its first leg Wearing t-shirts with the slogan March To Leave marchers trekked through the wind, rain and mud of the banks of the River Wear at the beginning of a 270 mile walk It will end in London on March 29, the day Britain had been scheduled to leave the EU. Mr Farage will be joined by Leave Means Leave founder Richard Tice and chairman John Longworth. Around 200 people have turned out this morning for the march, which will wind its way down from Wearside to end at the capital's Parliament Square. A crowd of 200 gathered to support the Leave Means Leave march as part of a peaceful protest against the Government's handling of Brexit negotiations Mr Farage is pictured at the end of the first leg of the March to Leave. Around 200 people have turned out this morning for the march A pro-EU protester is pictured releasing blue and yellow flares at the the start of the first leg of March to Leave. The march will end in London on March 29, the day Britain had been scheduled to leave the EU The March To Leave walk, organised by campaigners who want Britain to leave the EU with or without a deal, started from Wearside in Sunderland at around 9.30am this morning Nigel Farage led the walk as protesters carried Leave Means Leave banners. The walk will continue until March 29 when Britain is set to leave the EU After leading the beginning of the walk Nigel Farage took a seat on the Believe in Britain bus The March To Leave will campaign under the slogan 'Brexit Betrayal'. Sunderland was selected as the place to start the walk after 61.3 per cent of Sunderland voters backed Brexit during the EU Referendum in 2016. During the walk the former UKIP leader said: 'The temperature. It's 10 degrees. 10 degrees in Leeds and every 20 miles it drops a degree.' Another walker says: 'You're in the north now.' Mr Farage, who will not be walking the full 270 miles, joked: 'Yes I had noticed.' During the march Nigel Farage said: 'I think that when you are witnessing your whole democratic system, the whole bond and trust and faith that exists between the leaders of the people being undermined in the way that it is, I think it's important to show that we care, and this is showing that we care. 'It's also giving people a way of expressing their upset, a way of expressing their contempt for what parliament did this week, in a peaceful manner. In a grown up, civilised, peaceful manner. And I think that's a pretty important message actually. 'We hope to show millions of people at home, who have been very upset and very alone, that they are not alone and we haven't given up. 'Of all the images of Brexit on that night, Sunderland is the one that stands out.' Maureen James, 61, a school teacher form Sunderland, shouted 'welcome Nigel' as he arrived. She said: 'I'm taking part because we have to support Nigel, who have we got if we haven't got Nigel? 'It's dark forces in parliament who's causing all of this. Conservative MP Andrea Jenkyns and Labour MP Kate Hoey joined Mr Farage for this morning's pro-Brexit walk The group battled strong winds and rain as temperatures fell to 10 degrees celsius at the start of the 270-mile walk Nigel Farage is pictured in Seaham after walking from Sunderland for the March to Leave. More than 60 per cent of Sunderland voters backed Brexit during the EU Referendum in 2016 Around 200 people have turned out this morning for the march, which will wind its way down from Wearside to end at the capital's Parliament Square 'Also who did they vote in? Theresa May, a remainer! It's ridiculous voting in a remainer. She's led us along all the way through. 'Today is the start of the beginning of the protests that will show Theresa May watch your step matey, we mean business.' Herbert Crossman, who stood for UKIP against Theresa May in 2015 in Maidenhead, arrived at the march with a large Brexit banner. Herbet, from Harrow, said: 'It's important to do this to start the campaign, to show we have to support to get us out. 'They have not listened to the people and I think it's absolutely crazy. We have got the deal, we know what the deal is - we leave the EU. 'I think it's crazy and disgusting to extend the time period. Theresa May has lied and lied, the same as what this idiot Jean-Claude Junker's done now. 'I'm afraid enough is enough. She's left it long enough now, it's time for her to go. She's an embarrassment to the country.' During the walk strong winds meant Mr Farage was forced to keep his umbrella down while rain poured on the group Walkers shivered in their woolly hats and coats as they walked by the River Wear in miserable looking Sunderland Mr Farage delivered a rousing speech to the walkers who gathered to support him in his pro-Brexit campaign Retired John Cecil, 77, of Esh Winning, County Durham described Mr Farage as 'an absolute star' as he joined the march this morning. He said: 'I'm taking part today because we believe in democracy and it's been taken away from us. 'I hope it will bring some tensions but in the short term I don't think it will make a difference. 'All we can do is turn the support and noise up. Farage is a star, an absolute star.' David Hardman arrived at the beginning of the march with a number of remain supporters to carry out a counter protest. The 51-year-old design director from Newcastle said: 'We have pointed out that Sunderland is going to lose the most from Brexit. 'Most of Nissan's factory sales, 76 per cent of their cars are sold in Europe. This is a shame, they should be ashamed of themselves pretending they are doing the Jarrow march. 'A march where people were starving and living in poverty. Now they are marching for poverty.The North East is is the region that will lose the most.' Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage posed next to a 'Tommy' statue during the 'Brexit Betrayal' march from Sunderland to London Protesters made their way along the River Wear in Sunderland as they began a 270-mile march to London to try to get Britain out of the EU whether a deal is in place by March 29 or not Save our sovereignty: Supporters waved their flags and took photos of Mr Farage as he stood at the top of his Leave Means Leave bus On June 8, 1982, at the height of the Falklands War, a Sidewinder missile exploded out of a British Sea Harrier and raced towards an enemy Argentine plane. It smashed into the aircraft, destroying the plane, killing its pilot - but leaving the RAF man with lasting trauma. Today, 37 years later, the British pilot returned to the islands where he once fought - to make friends with his victim's son. David Morgan, now 71, was seconded to the Fleet Air Arm in April 1982 to fly Sea Harriers in the Falklands War David Morgan, 71, last month met with Pablo Bolzan, 38, who is the son of the gunned down pilot Danilo Bolzan, according to the Telegraph. While Pablo had already heard a vague story of how his father had died, a conversation with the British veteran fleshed out the details and gave the man closure. David, from Wiltshire, said: 'It was nice to realise that [Pablo] holds no resentment at all and was genuinely friendly and glad to meet me. 'He knows the full story now. It meant a lot to him.' On his return trip, former RAF pilot was also joined by fellow ex-combatant Hector Sanchez, who had fought for Argentina during the conflict. Pablo, 38, who is now a father of his own, held no resentment towards the man who shot his father from the sky In 1993, a decade after the war ended, David was introduced to Hector who reassured him there were no hard feelings as both were just fighting for their respective countries And although the pair were 'out to kill each other' during the war, they have since become close friends. David thought that if the pair had come face to face under different circumstances, such as at a bar, he would have befriended Hector much earlier. But instead they first laid eyes on each through the glass cockpit of their warplanes with the intention of shooting each other from the sky. In 1993, a decade after the war ended, David was introduced to Hector who reassured him there were no hard feelings as both were just fighting for their respective countries. David said that the key to forgiveness and even becoming mates with old foes is to 'wipe away' emotions experienced in combat. Then, he said, it's easy to realise that the enemy is probably quite similar to you. An 11-year-old boy has been taken into custody and charged with murder in a deadly shooting that left one dead and another critically injured. On Friday, the New Hampshire Attorney General's office revealed that Lizette Eckert, 50, was found dead at her home in Dobbins Way, Alton, having suffered a fatal gunshot wound. Police responded to a call from the address at 7.30am. On arrival, Lizette's husband, James Eckert, 48, was found alive but had suffered multiple gunshot wounds. He was rushed to a near-by hospital and remains in critical condition, according to authorities. Assistant Attorney General Geoffrey Ward revealed the 11-year-old male suspect was arrested two hours later. Lizette Eckert (seen middle), 50, was found dead at the scene in Alton on Friday. Lizette's husband, James Eckert (right), 48, was found alive but had suffered multiple gunshot wounds Police responded to a call from the address at 7:30 am. The suspect was apprehended two hours later after a search of a wooded area behind the home Authorities apprehended the boy after searching a wooded area behind the Eckert's family home. He has been charged with one juvenile count of reckless second-degree murder and one juvenile count of attempted murder. Ward called the double shooting 'an incredibly tragic incident'. State and local police said they couldn't comment on the identity of the suspect or his relation to the victims at this time, but the couple do have three children, including two adopted sons. The Attorney General's office couldn't be reached for comment. It's not yet clear whether either of the two boys are responsible for the shooting. But because of the suspect's age, information is likely to remain limited. However, Alton officials insisted there is no danger threatening the wider public. Two nearby high schools, Alton Central and Prospect Mountain, were sent into lock-down during the police's two-hour search for the suspect. It's not clear whether he was armed at the time of his arrest. State and local police said the couldn't comment on the identity of the suspect at this time, but the couple do have two young adopted sons, as well as a daughter. It's not clear if either of the boys are the responsible suspect at this time 'There is no current threat to ACS,' Alton Central School Principal John MacArthur said in an email to Boston 10. 'As a precautionary measure we have activated a secure campus. Nobody is permitted in or out of the building until we are given an all clear.' MacArthur also confirmed that none of the Eckert family are enrolled at the school. Prospect Mountain High School couldn't be reached for comment. 'Weve just been gathered here, praying for the family,' said Russ Sample, a friend of the Eckerts and fellow member of the Community Church of Alton, to NHPR. 'The suddenness of this is incredible,' added the Church's pastor, Sam Hollo. 'None of us really realized that there were troubles, so it caught all of us by surprise.' An autopsy will be carried out on Lizette early next week to determine her specific cause of death. A lance corporal who accidentally killed his best friend during a game of 'quick draw' despite being warned about 'playing around' with weapons has been jailed. Colin Theaker, 30, deliberately pointed the Glock pistol directly at Lance Corporal Scott Hetherington, 22, before pulling the trigger not knowing it was loaded at an Army camp in Iraq. A court heard Lance Corporal Hetherington, nicknamed 'Snowball', said 'no, no don't do that' prior to the shooting at around 4pm on January 2, 2017. Lance Corporal Colin Theaker (left), 30, who accidentally killed his best friend Scott Hetherington, 22, on January 2, 2017 during a game of 'quick draw' despite being warned about 'playing around' with weapons has been jailed for three years He died from a single fatal wound to the lower chest in what was described to the court as a 'tragic accident'. The pair, whose relationship was described as 'brotherly', had both been 'playing around' with their service pistols while cleaning them prior to the fatal shooting. But in the process, Lance Corporal Theaker had unwittingly made ready his weapon and a round was in the chamber when he pulled the trigger, a court heard. LCpl Hetherington, a vehicle commander in the Force Protection Platoon, became the first British soldier to have been killed in Iraq since 2009. The pals were on deployment helping train local soldiers fight Islamic State militants at the time of the fatal shooting in the living accommodation pod they shared together. LCpl Theaker, who was part of a detachment from 2nd Battlion The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment (2 LANCS) based at Camp Taji, pleaded guilty to manslaughter by gross negligence last month. Lance Corporal Hetherington (left) died after Theaker (right) fired a single shot to his lower chest in what was described to the Catterick Garrison court martial centre as a 'tragic accident' Yesterday he was jailed for three years after being sentenced at Catterick Garrison court martial centre and dismissed from her Majesty's service. Lance Corporal Hetherington's partner, Savannah Brown had only given birth to their daughter Safaya-Rose three months before the fatal shooting. He was buried with full military honours in his hometown of Middleton, Greater Mancs., three weeks after his death. In an emotional victim statement, LCpl Hetherington's sister Sian told a court: 'After I was told he died I was heartbroken. When I found out it was Colin I was even more heartbroken. 'Myself and Scott are siblings but I believe him and Colin are siblings. 'Him being sentenced is the worst thing that could happen to our family. If he was to be sentenced that's not justice for me, Scott or his family.' Lance Corporal Hetherington's partner Savannah Brown had only given birth to their daughter Safaya-Rose three months before the fatal shooting. Above: Theaker (left) with Lance Corporal Hetherington In a statement read out to court, LCpl Hetherington's mother Anne Hetherington added: 'He [Theaker] made the biggest mistake you can make and he will pay for the rest of his life. He doesn't need to go to prison. 'I don't wish any criminal charges to be brought against him, it was an accident with no malice.' Prosecuting, Graham Coombes earlier told a court: 'The background to this case is a very tragic one. 'On January 2 at approximately 4pm the victim was accidentally shot in the chest and was sadly killed by the accused in their living accommodation. 'LCpl Hetherington was close friends and their relationship was described as brotherly. They were always play fighting with each other. 'Prior to the incident both Hetherington and the accused were cleaning their issue rifles and pistols. 'Both him and Hetherington went to the shower and returned to the room to await a briefing. 'We heard evidence from Corporal M G Fenton as to a warning that was given beforehand. 'When assistance arrived the accused was asked what he had been doing which led to Hetherington being shot and said 'f***ing about with pistols drawing them, I shot my mate'. 'After the incident, the accused said 'why it was cocked I don't know'.' Corporal Fenton, who was staying in the adjoining pod, heard 'no, no don't do that' less than ten seconds before the gunshot, a court heard. He said: 'I came back off a task, took my kit off and just remember sitting on my bed with my back against the wall. 'I could obviously hear Scott Hetherington and Colin Theaker just messing around and moving about which is what I heard most nights. 'They were always goofing around and next minute I heard a gunshot which I knew straight away was a gunshot. I knew straight away it was a negligent discharge. 'So, I remember from that day having some sort of bickering and arguing, it sounded like a lot of moving. 'I remember Hetherington saying something along the lines of no, no don't do that not knowing what it referred to. 'Because of that gunshot it brought into focus what I heard there. I could hear them every night having a laugh.' LCpl Theaker and LCpl Hetherington had been cleaning their service pistols and were stood on their beds playing a game of 'quick draw' before the fatal shooting. But LCpl Theaker had taken the magazine on and off and a round was in the chamber when he pulled the trigger. LCpl Theaker came out into the hallway screaming for help, a court heard. When interviewed, LCpl Theaker, who has no previous convictions, said he did not recall any warning given prior to the shooting. LCpl Theaker and the victim were close friends and often were seen bickering and play fighting. Mitigating, Ben Knight said LCpl Theaker has since been diagnosed with PTSD but told a court it was an 'exceptional case' given the positive relationship with the victim's family. He said: 'He does not care about going to prison. He is used to a regimental lifestyle, it's nothing compared to the profound guilt and horror of what he did.' Passing sentence, Vice judge advocate general of the armed forces, Michael Hunter, presiding with a three-person military board, said: 'Theaker you are not an immature soldier, you are now 30-years-old. 'You played around with weapons after you have been clearly and strongly warned not to play around with weapons. 'We have heard evidence in the course of this trial and have concluded Hetherington himself expressed what could only have been a warning before you shot him dead. 'It has been contended by your counsel that the weapons training in the services is inadequate and that you were inadequately trained. 'While there is no evidence before us to substantiate this the military members of the board hope this is unfounded. 'You do not need to know you do not play around with weapons and point them at someone deliberately and deliberately pull the trigger 'This is something that any soldier would know whatever the state of their training. 'You are very fortunate to have the support of the Hetherington family. Their actions on your behalf can only be described as truly noble and generous, something that is not very often seen in courts of law of cases of this nature. A Love Island star's inquest has been cancelled after her parents received a report. Sophie Gradon, 32, who featured on the show's 2016 series, was found dead at her home in Ponteland, near Newcastle, on June 20 last year. Her boyfriend, Aaron Armstrong, died 20 days later at his home in Blyth, Northumberland. Sophie Gradon, 32, who starred in the 2016 series of Love Island was found dead in her home near Newcastle, on June 20 last year. The inquest in her death, scheduled for this Thursday, has been cancelled Her boyfriend, Aaron Armstrong, was found dead in his home 20 days later Northumberland Coroner's court said the inquest was cancelled as her family had asked for time to consider a report that they received recently The inquest, scheduled for next Thursday, was cancelled by Northumberland Coroner's Court. A statement said: 'Please note that it has been necessary to cancel the hearing date. 'Sophie's parents have requested further time to consider a report which was only recently received.' Her mother, Anastacia Beverhousn, wrote on Twitter in February that the family are still waiting for access to her iPhone almost nine months after her death. 'As the heartbroken mother of Sophie Gradon we are still waiting for an inquest date eight months after her unexplained death. Why? 'Because the Police cannot open her iPhone for data extraction.' Her mother, Anastacia Beverhousn, wrote on Twitter in February that they still weren't able to get access to Sophie's iPhone Her boyfriend Aaron made several Instagram posts before he died saying how much he missed Sophie Sophie's funeral was held at St George's Church, Jesmond. Posting from the day, her boyfriend said he loved her 'with all my heart' Her boyfriend Aaron's inquest will go ahead on Tuesday after his body was found at his home in Blyth, Northumberland, five days after the star's funeral. Releasing a statement following both deaths, Sophie Gradon's parents said: 'Sophie spent an idyllic childhood in Gosforth, Newcastle, and then moved at the age of 10 to Ponteland in Northumberland.' Sharing pictures of Sophie at a garden party they said she 'told us she had just met someone new and had been on a lunch date with him. 'She was excited at the prospect of starting a new relationship and it was her fullest intention to introduce us to him when the time was right. 'At the time of Sophies sudden and tragic passing, she had only been involved with Armstrong for five weeks.' Aaron's last Instagram post reads: 'Just wish I could cuddle you all day. Miss you so much man Sophie. Not a minute goes by without your gorgeous smile being a picture in my mind. 'Everyday we spent together was so amazing. I need them days back.' Another post from the day of her funeral reads: 'I love you with all my heart my beautiful angel. Sophie Gradon was also originally Miss Great Britain before going on Love Island 'I'm absolutely heartbroken. I can't stop crying and I can feel your spirit in my soul. RIP Sophie Hannah Gradon.' On a post from July 3 he wrote: 'After a massive meltdown since yesterday I took Sophie for a drive and stuck her on a mountain as high as I could so you can have as much zen as you need baby girl. 'The view is amazing. Hope you love it. I will come see you every day my angel. I love you smiler.' Sophie Gradon, a fashion icon and model who shot to fame on Love Island, had previously been Miss Great Britain. Advertisement French President Emmanuel Macron has cut short a skiing trip in the Pyrenees to return to Paris for a crisis meeting after 'yellow vest' protesters trashed shops and torched cars in the heart of Paris. Businesses on the famed Champs-Elysees avenue in Paris were destroyed on Saturday, on the 18th weekend of French the protests, characterised by a sharp increase in violence after weeks of dwindling turnout. Macron is now due to hold an emergency meeting at the interior ministry, his office said. Protesters were seen vandalising and later setting fire to Fouquet's brasserie, a favourite hangout of the rich and famous for the past century - as well as luxury handbag store Longchamp, a bank, another restaurant and several news stands. 'Like the vast majority of French people, I feel very angry today,' tweeted French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe, who visited the scene. 'Today's actions are not the work of protesters, but of looters, arsonists and criminals. No cause justifies this violence,' he added. In a statement, the national police denounced the 'mindless violence, cowardly attacks' and stressed their determination to guarantee public order against 'provocateurs and vandals'. Famed French brasserie restaurant Fouquet's burns on the Champs Elysees avenue during a yellow vests demonstration Saturday, March 16. President Nicolas Sarkozy celebrated his 2007 electoral victory there A Yellow Vest protester throws a European flag onto a burning pile of chairs on the 18th consecutive Saturday of demonstrations by the protest movement A masked man holds up a sign (foreground) that reads 'Macron mutilates the Nation; Police and Media corps don't become his accomplice' at a march in Bordeaux, western France Violence erupted in Paris today as Yellow Vest protesters calling for French President Emmanuel Macron to resign took to the streets for the eighteenth Saturday in a row Protestors have vandalised many of the cars and restaurant furniture left in the street, including this motorcycle and a forklift truck down a street in central Paris According to a French consumer group, the five weekends of protests are predicted to have cost the consumer economy 2 billion. Source: National Centre of Shopping Malls (CNCC) Firefighters look for evidence in the charred remains of a newsagent set alight during clashes with riot police forces The nationwide protests are against the President Macron's 'top-down' style of governing, the high cost of living, government tax reforms as they demand more 'social and economic justice' Violence erupted as the protesters called for the French president to resign. Teargas and baton charged were used by riot police on a so-called 'Act XVIII' Day of Rage organised by the Yellow Vest movement. Fighting broke out on the Champs Elysee, the most famous avenue in the French capital, by 11am, when there had already been 25 arrests. 'Gangs are targeting police, and carrying out numerous acts of vandalism,' said an officer at the scene. 'Fires are being lit, including in cars. Thousands are arriving all over the city, and we are already extremely stretched.' Protests were not just organised by the Yellow Vests who are named after their high visibility motoring jackets but by climate change protesters. A group of Yellow Vests pull down a sheet-metal shop window protection fence which is later seen smashed into. Dozens of shops on the Champs-Elysees have boarded their fronts to limit damage Protesters are pictured in front of the iconic Arc De Triomphe on the Champs Elysees as a fire burns in front of them. The protests were also organised by climate change protesters A fireman tries to put out the flames at the burning luxury store Longchamps on the Champs Elysees during the demonstration One protester is even pictured on top of the burning debris as it is engulfed by flames. Tear gas was deployed by riot police on a so-called 'Act XVIII' Day of Rage organised by the Yellow Vest movement A woman stands on broken glass to take a quick picture of the wrecked shopfront of a Hugo Boss store, where most of the clothes appear to have been stolen Security forces intervene with tear gas during a demonstration on avenue Champs Elysees in Paris Protesters are pictured setting up a barricade against the teargas during the 18th yellow vest demonstration, so-called 'Act XVIII' Another barricade built by Yellow vests protesters during the demonstrations in Paris today Fighting broke out on the Champs Elysee, the most famous avenue in the French capital, by 11am, when there had already been 25 arrests The protesters were attempting to march on the Elysee Palace, Mr Macron's official home, but were held back by barriers and rows of police Yellow vests, or Gilets jaunes, protesters stage a demonstration on a lamppost on avenue Champs Elysees A yellow vests protester lies on the ground after getting injured by security forces during a demonstration on avenue Champs Elysees A protester wearing a yellow vest walks in front of demolished metal fencing during a demonstration by the 'yellow vests' movement in Paris today Yellow vests protesters setup a barricade using fire during by avenue Champs Elysees in Paris today The remnants of a bike is ablaze as part of the demonstrations. A lone shoe is forgotten in the heat of the protests All were attempting to march on the Elysee Palace, Mr Macron's official home, but were held back by barriers and rows of police. Around 12 members of the Yellow Vest movement have died at blockades organised at major roads around France, while hundreds of others have been injured in rioting. The Vests have been protesting since November 17 last year and, despite a range of concessions by President Macron including scrapping green taxes of diesel and petrol, continue to call for him to step down. A police officer at the scene told MailOnline: 'Fires are being lit, including in cars. Thousands are arriving all over the city, and we are already extremely stretched' An injured protester pictured during clashes with riot forces on the Champs-Elysees today. Around 12 members of the Yellow Vest movement have died at blockades organised at major roads around France, while hundreds of others have been injured in rioting Yellow vests protesters break the rocks on sidewalks during the demonstrations Many have been arrested, including some 700 who were held in custody on a single day in Paris last December. High-end shops including luxury fashion boutiques were today boarded up in Paris, along with banks and post offices. This follows major acts of vandalism, including the Arc de Triomphe itself being attacked. A protester gestured wildly in front of a newsagent which had been set alight Exclusive restaurant Le Fouquet, popular with politicians and celebrities was also vandalised Mounted police, water cannons, and 14 armoured vehicles capable of spreading high-intensity gas were today all on standby as part of the security operation. They have failed to prevent widespread disorder over the past few weekends, with the worst violence normally coming at nightfall. The Vests have been joined by extremists from the far Right and the ultra-Left, as well as anarchists intent on causing as much damage as possible. Crisis-ridden Mr Macron has not only climbed down on imposing green surcharges, but increased the national minimum wage by seven per sent, and scrapped tax on bonuses. But the Yellow Vests said their protests would continue indefinitely as they campaign for even more concessions. The independent Mr Macron, leader of the Republic On The Move party, won the French presidential election in a landslide in 2017, but he is now dubbed the 'President of the Rich'. Crisis-ridden Mr Macron has not only climbed down on imposing green surcharges, but increased the national minimum wage by seven per sent, and scrapped tax on bonuses High-end shops including luxury fashion boutiques were today boarded up in Paris, along with banks and post offices. Yet that didn't stop protesters from getting inside a Hugo Boss shop (above) A small structure is on fire in the centre of a busy pavement as yellow vest protests continue in Paris Firefighters battle a fire at a street kiosk during a Yellow Vests movement protest as demonstrations continue around them Security forces stand guard as yellow vests protesters stage a demonstration on avenue Champs Elysees in Paris, France Police are searching for the husband of a North Carolina woman whose body was found dumped on the woods on Tuesday. The Nash County Sheriff's Office has issued a first-degree murder warrant for Rexford Lynn Keel Jr, 57, in the death of his second wife 38-year-old Diana Alejandra Keel. The case has also raised suspicions about the death of his first wife who died in 2006 after she allegedly slipped and fell at their home. Diana was reported missing on March 9 by her daughter and found 30 miles from her home, CNN reports. The Nash County Sheriff's Office has issued a first-degree murder warrant for Rexford Lynn Keel Jr, 57, in the death of 38-year-old Diana Alejandra Keel Diana was reported missing on March 9 by her daughter and her body was found 30 miles from her home on Tuesday Police are treating the woman's death like a homicide following an autopsy. She was last seen by her husband Lynn at their Nashville home and reported missing by her daughter on Saturday evening. According to Nash County Sheriff Keith Stone, there had been a 'domestic issue' between the couple about a year ago. 'There had been concerns between the husband at one time and Mrs. Keel but there has been nothing lately that has been reported on that,' he said at a press conference, according to Heavy.com. Stone described the incidents as being 'small domestic issues' and communication problems.' Diane's friends and family also claimed that the woman was working on a divorce and had already met with a lawyer, WTVD-TV reports. Mr Keel had been taken to the sheriff's office for questioning and to possibly identify the body, officials said at a news conference on Tuesday. He was released. It is believed that he is driving a 1998 Chevy pick-up truck that is said to be gold in color. It has North Carolina license plates BBM-9232. The mom's car was still parked on the driveway at the house after she disappeared Rexford first wife, Elizabeth Bess Edwards Keel, died at the same home in 2006 after falling on ice on steps. At the time of the incident, authorities listed Elizabeth's death as an accident. Autopsy reports stated that she died after falling and hitting her head on the concrete steps. According to Maj. Miste Strickland of the Nash County Sheriff's office, detectives are looking into the death of both women. Members of Elizabeth family did share a post about Diana's death on their own social media. Ivanka Trump's tweet after the New Zealand mosque massacres weren't entirely welcome on Friday. The First Daughter who also works as an adviser to POTUS on job creation and economic empowerment, workforce development & entrepreneurship addressed the killing in Christchurch earlier that day in a social media post. '49 innocent people were slaughtered in their place of worship during the terrorist attack on Christchurch Mosques. We join New Zealand and Muslim communities around the world in condemnation of this evil as we pray for the families of each victim and grieve together,' she wrote on Twitter. Ivanka Trump faced criticism for her message about the mosque slayings of 49 Muslims in Christchurch, New Zealand Friday. Many lashed out due to her father's denial of white nationalism on the rise Her tweet wasn't entirely welcome despite saying she joins the country and Muslims around the world in their grief Some valued her message. One person wrote: 'We appreciate your feeling.' Another added: 'Prayers to the family.' But others weren't as forgiving of the First Family as they pitted her message against Donald Trump's actions, identifying it as 'the strongest, most specific condemnation so far from the administration'. 'Your dad's ideals inspired the terrorist,' one user wrote. Another addressed the president's Muslim travel bans of past years: '*As long as their families don't try to enter the country.' Ivanka's message got many reactions that were similar to this one: 'Tell your father to stop spreading hatred and white supremacist ideology.' While Ivanka attempted to show solidarity with those who follow Islam, labelled the shooter 'evil', and looked at the killings from a more personal angle with consideration for loved ones affected, her father appeared to take a step back in his exclamation. Some people on Twitter valued her message. One person wrote: 'We appreciate your feeling' But others weren't as forgiving of the First Family but one identified the message as 'the strongest, most specific condemnation so far from the administration' Less than an hour before her, the president tweeted: 'My warmest sympathy and best wishes goes out to the people of New Zealand after the horrible massacre in the Mosques. 49 innocent people have so senselessly died, with so many more seriously injured. The U.S. stands by New Zealand for anything we can do. God bless all!' Trump then went into a series of tweets about the Mueller report just minutes later. The president later returned to the platform to thank the 'Great Republican Senators who bravely voted for Strong Border Security and the WALL' claiming it will 'help stop Crime, Human Trafficking, and Drugs entering our Country'. Shortly after he told his 51.9 million followers he'd been on the phone with the New Zealand's leader Jacinda Ardern to say he loves the country and that the US stands in solidarity with them and is willing to provide any assistance. But his earlier Christchurch tweet prompted Twitter users to criticize his handling of white extremists. 'Your dad's ideals inspired the terrorist,' one tweeter wrote, alluding to the shooter's manifesto mentioning POTUS Another Twitter user addressed President Donald Trump's Muslim travel bans of past years Social media users seemed to point out that the shooter had called Trump a 'symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose' One Twitter user posted that as Advisor to POTUS on job creation + economic empowerment, workforce development & entrepreneurship, Ivanka was part of the problem Actress Mia Farrow replied: 'The hatred you stoke against Muslims, against immigrants, against the press, against 'others'- your reluctance to condemn white supremacy and your utter lack of moral leadership, leads to the horrors New Zealand is now enduring. 'Even in the face of mass murder, you are unwilling to condemn white supremacy. The shooter, your fan, thinks you are 'a symbol of renewed white identity.' 'Warmest sympathy and best wishes' do not begin to address the hatred you have unleashed.' As Trump spoke in a 'ceremony' in Oval Office to sign veto of Congressional repeal of his emergency declaration at the border he said, 'I don't really', when asked if he'd seen a rise in white nationalism. In New Zealand Prime Minister Arden was asked if she agreed with his assessment and said simply: 'No.' She also said she had asked him for 'sympathy and love for all Muslim communities'. But Trump did not condemn white nationalism Friday even after the shooter, Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, had called Trump a 'symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose'. Botswana Federation of Trade Unions (BFTU) council has resolved to stage a protest in solidarity with all Batswana affected by closure of BCL. The general council that was held in Mahalapye took this resolution following a presentation from Botswana Mine Workers Union. The Federation is concerned at the treatment the BCL employees and their families have suffered as a result of the decision to close the mine. BFTU Secretary General, Thusang Butale said they would be in solidarity with BCL employees. He said logistics for the protest would be communicated in due course. The Federation has noted that Botswanas economy has been doing relatively well since independence and has even withstood and survived the 2008 economic shocks. Botswana has received accolades from the international community and financial institutions for its multi-party system, functioning democracy, good governance and its relative economic prosperity. However, the Federation notes with disappointment, that this much talked economic success story has not translated into prosperity for all, he said. Butale revealed that according to the most recent formal sector employment survey report, monthly average earnings for citizens were P6 038, whilst monthly average earnings for non-citizens stood at P18 265. He stated that the Botswana Multi-Topic Household Survey of 2015/16 reveals that Batswana continue to wallow in poverty, and social inequalities and unemployment, in spite of the countrys much talked about economic success story. It is the view of the Federation that Botswana is a rich country of poor citizens, adding that the Federation is therefore concerned about the state of poverty in the midst of plenty that is found in Botswana today. Butale said they are also deeply alarmed by reports of corruption and poor governance that seem to have engulfed the country. It is corruption and poor governance that are at the centre of Botswana current political crisis. The Federation notes that in a functioning multi-party democracy, every general election presents an opportunity to all stakeholders to ask those seeking their votes to enter public office, what it is that they have for them. It must be remembered that public office holders being Members of Parliament and Local Government authorities are at the centre of the process of national governance and distribution of national resources. It is therefore important that trade unions take deliberate effort to ensure that the interests of workers will be addressed and are safeguarded by those who require their votes, he explained. According to Butale in October 2018 the General Council of the Federation passed a resolution for the development of the workers manifesto that would be used to inform, guide and ideally influence political parties manifestos in the coming 2019 general election. Police may be given powers to search cars and homes without warrants in a new drugs crackdown. New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian has vowed to give police extra powers following a spate of recent overdose deaths at music festivals. Following talks with NSW police, Ms Berejiklian has agreed to introduce special drug supply prohibition orders, which will allow officers to search the houses and cars of anyone convicted of serious drug offences without a warrant. NSW Police could be given special powers in a new crackdown on drugs following a spate of recent deaths at music festivals. Pictured is Defqon. 1, where two people died last September The proposed two year trial would allow police to conduct a court-ordered search of a person or their property for prohibited drugs, paraphernalia and other evidence of supply or manufacture at any time. Ms Berejiklian said the orders would target convicted drug offenders who preyed on young people or are involved in the large-scale supply of illegal drugs. 'I want convicted drug dealers to know that they will have nowhere to hide if they want to prey on, and profit from, the people of NSW,' she told The Daily Telegraph. New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian has vowed to give police extra powers following a spate of recent overdose deaths at music festivals (stock image of a festival) Police Minister Troy Grant added: 'As a former police officer, I've seen the harsh reality of illegal drugs in our communities, and I'm confident that these orders will help our police take the fight to drug dealers, and show them that we will not tolerate having this filth on our streets.' Police must obtain a warrant every time they want conduct a search of a property or vehicle under current laws. The two year pilot would be rolled out across Bankstown, Coffs-Clarence, Hunter Valley and Orana Mid-Western local area commands. A young man died died from overdose at the FOMO festival held at Parramatta Park in January The proposed new laws are in addition to the state government's pledge to establish a Special Commission of Inquiry into the drug ice if they are re-elected at the March 23 state election. Two festival goers died at the Defqon. 1 festival in Penrith last September, followed by the deaths of two men in December at the Knockout Games of Destiny Dance Party in Homebush and the Lost Paradise music festival at Gosford on the Central Coast. A Central Coast woman also died at the FOMO festival in Parramatta Park in January. Two NSW music festivals were cancelled by organisers last month, blaming the state government's 'war on drugs.' Proposed drug supply prohibition orders would allow police to search the houses and cars of anyone convicted of serious drug offences without a warrant. The crackdown follows a recent spare of deaths at NSW music festivals Mountain Sounds organisers pulled the plug within a fortnight of the event being held on Central Coast while Psyfari also cancelled its 2019 event scheduled for September. 'While we had full intention of going ahead with this, our 10th anniversary and grand finale, the current political climate surrounding festivals in NSW has made this something harder than ever before, and it really seems like a recipe for disaster,' Psyfari posted on Facebook at the time. 'We are unfortunate to be in the wrong place at the wrong time when festivals are the new scapegoat of a failed government and their failed war on drugs.' Mountain Sounds organisers blamed similar reasons for their cancellation. 'We, like many of you, have seen the festival climate continue to diminish in Australia. NSW in particular is in dire straits,' organisers posted. 'This is yet another example of the government's war on festivals.' Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has warned Australia's housing market collapse could destroy small businesses and hit family budgets ahead of the next federal election. House prices have plunged by around 15 per cent in parts of Sydney and Melbourne in recent months amid fears the fall will harm the wider economy. In particular, small business owners that took out loans against the value of their houses may be badly affected. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg (pictured) has warned Australia's housing market collapse could destroy small businesses and hit family budgets ahead of the next federal election House prices have plunged by around 15 per cent in parts of Sydney and Melbourne in recent months amid fears the fall will harm the wider economy (stock image) 'People are concerned about the impact of lower prices on the future of the real economy and particularly that spill-over into household consumption and into the ability of small business to grow and expand and invest,' Mr Frydenberg told The Sunday Age. Mr Frydenberg said people are more concerned about the impact of lower prices and how it will affect family budgets and small business' ability to grow and expand CoreLogic data showed house prices in the treasurer's seat of Kooyong in Melbourne plunged by 14 per cent, while PM Scott Morrison's seat of Cook in Sydney was down 13 per cent. A panel of eight experts enlisted by the publication predicted additional price falls, with Sydney to fall by another 8.7 per cent and Melbourne by 9.7 per cent this year. Shadow Treasurer Chris Bowen, whose western Sydney electorate of McMahon plunged by nine per cent, said price falls meant the Coalition has lost its upper hand. 'It used to be we've got a scalpel the other side have got a sledgehammer. They don't say that anymore. They can't,' Mr Bowen said. He said the banking regulator's crackdown on investor loans to local and foreign buyers meant there was also an increase in owner-occupiers and first-home buyers. Mr Bowen said it used to be the case where constituents would frequently stop him to talk about 'crazy prices', whereas now they aren't as concerned over falling prices. Shadow Treasurer Chris Bowen (pictured) dismissed the treasurer's claims as 'shrill, ridiculous, scaremongering' Mr Frydenberg said he is concerned that if Labor is voted in at the next election the risk of the housing collapse affecting the greater economy would also increase. He said if the Labor Party get their chance to abolish negative gearing and increase capital gains tax, it will drive prices down with a spillover into the real economy. Mr Bowen dismissed the treasurer's claims as 'shrill, ridiculous, scaremongering'. 'If there are fewer landlords that means there are more owner-occupiers by definition. A new owner occupier is almost by definition a former renter,' he said. The shadow treasurer claimed the government is using scare campaigns to make people believe when house prices go up, so will rental prices. When asked about impending changes for negative gearing, Mr Bowen suggested a one-year lead time between the election and the policy's start date. Mr Frydenberg argued the timing of the policy was dangerous in a falling market and he believes it should not be adopted any time. 'It is particularly egregious of labor to pretend that it works in both a falling housing market and a rising housing market. It's illogical,' he said. But Mr Bowen said fewer investors meant the time was right for change. Amazon announced the plan to build a headquarters in Queens last November but cancelled them in February, citing disagreement among local politicians 'I think we can all say that unusual things were happening within the Amazon family at that time,' De Blasio said on the show Mayor Bill de Blasio, still bruised from Amazon's decision to pull their headquarters out of Queens, is suggesting Jeff Bezos' affair is the reason behind the collapsed deal. De Blasio hinted that the Amazon CEO's affair with news anchor Lauren Sanchez that erupted in the public eye ruined Amazon's plans to create a sprawling headquarters. 'I think we can all say that unusual things were happening within the Amazon family at that time. And that was said politely. There was clearly some unusual factors happening,' de Blasio said with a smirk on MSNBC's Morning Joe on Friday. De Blasio expressed his disappointment and betrayal in the fallout with Amazon saying, 'We all know who the ultimate decision-maker is.' Mayor Bill de Blasio has hinted that Jeff Bezos' affair with former Fox host Lauren Sanchez led to the collapse of Amazon's plan to create a headquarters in New York In February Amazon announced it was cancelling its plans to create a sprawling 8million square feet campus in Queens, outraging local New York politicians. Mayor de Blasio says there was 'turmoil' going in CEO Bezos' personal life, leading to the decision When a show host directly asked if Bezos affair with Sanchez had anything to do with the decision, de Blasio danced around the question. 'I only am saying it was an unusual environment,' de Blasio echoed. The New York Mayor along with Governor Andrew Cuomo rallied long and hard for Amazon to brings its ambitious sprawling 8 million square feet campus to the East Coast, creating an estimated 25,000 jobs in the city. The plan was announced last November and would have created over $10billion in revenue over the next 20 years. But then Amazon suddenly axed its plans in February citing a lack of cooperation between local politicians. 'A deal was struck and that deal was moving forward for weeks and weeks and weeks. No one discussed anything changing. The facts are a decision was made very arbitrarily. We had an agreement. The agreement was moving forward, and then suddenly it wasnt. Thats all Im saying,' de Blasio said on the show. Bezos' affair with Lauren Sanchez was outed in the winter. In January he and his wife of 25 years Mackenzie Bezos announced their divorce. Bezos and Mackenzie above in 2018 'A deal was struck and that deal was moving forward for weeks and weeks and weeks. No one discussed anything changing. The facts are a decision was made very arbitrarily,' de Blasio said on the sudden pull out decision The proposal came with intense and heated criticism, with Congress freshman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez leading the protest against bringing the tech giant to New York where it would enjoy $3billion in tax breaks and incentives. 'Mr. Mayor you floated something out that we got to pin you down on, you believe that Jeff Bezos' affair had something to do...' show host Willie Geist questioned the 57-year-old Democrat for clarity on his suggestion. 'I didn't say that. It was an unusual environment, meaning there were a lot of cost pressures, there was a lot of things going on... You're gonna figure it out yourself,' he replied. 'There was a lot of turmoil. There was a lot of turmoil over many things and a decision was made in a very arbitrary fashion,' he added. Bezos and his novelist wife MacKenzie Bezos announced their split on January 9 on Twitter after 25 years together. Since Amazon's shocking pull out, New York lawmakers have mobilized campaigns to entice the tech giant back. Governor Cuomo has tried to court Amazon executives and state Senate Democratic Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins publicly urged Bezos to reconsider the pull-out, according to Politico. Calvin Klein's former toy boy is one of two men charged in a ferocious frying pan attack that saw the victim ending up in hospital. Nicholas Gruber, 28, was handcuffed earlier this week for the brutal assault last September. His friend, 26-year-old Brandon Steele, is also accused of taking part in the fracas. Police said the pair had attacked an unnamed 33-year-old man during a dispute about $4,000, at Steele's apartment on New York's Upper East Side. Nicholas Gruber, 28, left and Brandon Steele, 26, right, scuffled with a 33-year-old victim over $4,000 inside Steele's apartment before allegedly hitting him with a frying pan Gruber was handcuffed earlier this week for the assault. 26-year-old Brandon Steele is also accused of taking part in the fracas which left the victim with severe and disfiguring injuries They pair bashed the victim with the pan so severely it left him with severe and disfiguring injuries according to the New York Daily News. 'As a result of the repeated strikes, the victim was treated at Lenox Hill Hospital for several broken bones to the back, as well as a nearly severed ear and injuries to the orbital bone that could, potentially, affect vision,' court papers say. Gruber and Steele had known each other for years and had been pictured together at a David Barton Gym toy drive event in December 2010. The pair have been charged with second-degree assault and unlawful imprisonment in the first degree. Klein, 76, and Gruber who is some 48 years his junior, broke up in January 2012 (they are pictured together in 2010, right, and 2012, left) Gruber lives in the same building as where the attack took place in an apartment he allegedly illegally occupied after breaking in and changing the lock. When police searched his home, they found methamphetamine, $3,000 in cash, and what appeared to be a stolen package of clothes. 'Everything in my apartment is my property,' he said when confronted. Gruber is charged with criminal trespass for being in the apartment, drug possession and possession of stolen property. He is free on $5,000 bail. It's not Gruber's first brush with the law. The former gay porn star was arrested in 2012 after cops accused him of hiding cocaine in his underwear when they responded to a call that he assaulted a friend at the West Village penthouse apartment where he lived at the time. Klein, 76, and Gruber who is some 48 years his junior, broke up four months prior to the wild incident but had dated for two years before reportedly growing apart. Alexandrea Runyon, 22, was driving a 2004 Buick Century when she hit a fire hydrant at the intersection of Southeast 156th Place Road and US 44 A Florida mother was charged with a DUI on Friday morning after she crashed into a fire hydrant and effectively drowned her car in eight ft of water. Alexandrea Runyon, 22, was driving a 2004 Buick Century when she hit a fire hydrant at the intersection of Southeast 156th Place Road and US 441 in Marion County at approximately 2am. The fire hydrant is said to have started shooting water onto the road and the shoulder. It created a hole that was about 20ft wide and 8ft deep, authorities explained to News 4 Jax. Runyon's vehicle quickly became submerged and trapped at the bottom of the hole. The woman was not injured in the crash but authorities believe that she was impaired. Fire hydrant blasted water and created a massive hole that was 20ft wide and 8ft deep Runyon's vehicle quickly became submerged and trapped at the bottom of the hole The woman was not injured in the crash but authorities believe that she was impaired They detained Runyon and charged the woman with a DUI. She was taken to the Marion County Jail. Runyon's Facebook page indicates that she is a mother and is employed at Ricciardi's Italian Table located in the Villages. Video released from the Marion County Sheriff's Office shows the wild aftermath when officers spoke with Runyon. Bystanders can be heard exclaiming their disbelief that the woman wasn't dead. Johnathan Aledda (above) was accused of four crimes in 2017, including two counts of attempted manslaughter and two counts culpable negligence after he shot Charles Kinsey A Florida jury acquitted a Miami SWAT officer of negligence on Saturday, after he shot a behavioral therapist trying to help an autistic child in 2016. Officer Johnathan Aledda was accused of four crimes in 2017, including attempted manslaughter and culpable negligence for firing three shots at a severely autistic man but hitting his caretaker, Charles Kinsey, instead. Kinsey was attempting to coax Arnaldo Rios Sotos out of the middle of a busy road in North Miami, on July 18, 2016, when the shots were fired. Sotos had been holding a silver truck during his interaction with Kinsey, which Aledda said he mistook for a firearm. Despite Kinsey's repeated calls that the item in Rios Sotos' hands was 'a toy', Aledda still fired. Arnaldo Rios Sotos, who has profound autism, was sat in the middle of a busy road clutching a toy truck, when his caregiver Charles Kinsey tried to coax him away Charles Kinsey (pictured) was shot in the leg three times by Aledda, Despite his repeated calls that the item in Rios Sotos' hands was 'a toy' Charles Kinsey attempts to surrender to officers before being shot But a Florida jury acquitted Aledda on his culpable negligence charge on Saturday morning, but could not reach a verdict on his two counts of attempted manslaughter or his second count of culpable negligence. A tearful Aledda bowed his head in relief when the non-guilty verdict was read out by the foreman. He remained silent on his exit from the court, according to WPLG. In the exchange which received widespread viral and media attention, Kinsey can be seen screaming at officers begging them not to shoot, as he lays on the ground with his arms out-stretched, complying with their demands. Despite his best efforts, Kinsey was shot three times in the leg by Aledda. In court this week, the officer claimed he had actually been trying to take aim at Rios Sotos, who he believed was holding Kinsey hostage at gunpoint. He also claimed to have not heard or received radio transmissions from senior officers telling those present to not use their weapons. 'Obviously he had his hands forward but he was becoming aggressive so I thought that he could shoot him at any moment,' Aledda said in court this week. He added that he was stunned when he learned he'd struck Kinsey instead of Rios Sotos and tried 'to do everything in my power to help him.' Aledda's attorney, Douglas Hartman, blamed faulty radios and poor supervision from the North Miami Police Department for the shooting. 'He had a life-and-death situation,' Hartman told the jury. 'He thought without question that Mr. Kinsey was going to die, be shot and murdered.' Aledda claimed he had actually been trying to take aim at Rios Sotos, who he believed was holding Kinsey hostage at gunpoint (pictured reenacting the scene for the jury Rios Sotos was sat in the middle of a road (left). Kinsey can be seen (right) screaming at officers begging them not to shoot, as he lays on the ground with his arms out-stretched, complying with their demands A tearful Aledda bowed his head in relief when the non-guilty verdict was read out by the foreman In a secret recording released by the Miami New Times, the former North Miami Police Chief, Gary Eugene, can be heard saying that his department was incompetent and claimed his officers failed to properly secure the crime scene after the shooting. He added that a number of officers tired to force others to lie about the shooting to protect Aledda. The recording contradicted the sworn statement he'd given to the force's internal investigation department and he was dismissed from the police force last Friday. Aledda was the first Miami police officer to be charged for an on-duty shooting since William Lozano in 1989, who was convicted - and later acquitted - of manslaughter for fatally shooting a black motorcyclist. On March 27, the state will decide whether to go to trial on Aledda's three remaining charges. 'Since July 18, 2016, our community has been traumatized by North Miami Police Officer Jonathan Aleddas shooting of mental health therapist Charles Kinsey in his effort to protect his client, Arnaldo Rios Soto,' State Attorney Katherine Fernandez said in a statement. '[Prosecutors] will be discussing the case to determine the appropriate course of action as to the unresolved counts.' Hartman expressed disappointment at the verdict, but said he and his client will take solace in the fact the jury were hung five to one on acquittal for each of the other charges. Kenneth Eastwood, 63 - described as 'utterly dishonest' by Teesside's top judge - was overpaid 25,486 in benefits over four years. The judge did not believe Eastwood's account that his wife saved up a suitcase of money without his knowledge. A widower who claimed more than 25,000 in benefits after banking a suitcase of cash left by his late wife has avoided jail. Kenneth Eastwood, 63 - described as 'utterly dishonest' by Teesside's top judge - was overpaid 25,486 in benefits over four years. The judge did not believe Eastwood's account that his wife, who had suffered a large stroke, saved up a suitcase of money without his knowledge. Eastwood fraudulently claimed 12,772 in jobseeker's allowance and 12,714 in housing benefit between September 2014 and September 2018. Prosecutor Shaun Dryden told Teesside Crown Court yesterday: 'The total loss is just shy of 25,000. 'The defendant in fact had a large amount of savings which he didn't disclose.' Eastwood claimed he only had 4,300 in savings, well below the 6,000 limit for money affecting benefits. But Mr Dryden said: 'In fact he had 48,429 in four accounts.' Eastwood said his wife died in April 2013 and six months later he discovered a suitcase full of cash which she had saved from her benefits. He said he took the 36,000 to the bank and it was deposited, but he did not regard it as his money. His banking history showed he had made transactions and transferred large amounts of money. Mr Dryden said: 'After a fairly lengthy interview, the defendant conceded he had been acting dishonestly. 'He hadn't disclosed he had that cash to the benefits agency because he simply wanted to hold on to it.' Eastwood, of Hebburn Road, Stockton, admitted four charges of fraud, his first ever conviction. He has now repaid the housing benefit in full and his lawyer said he could pay another 7,000. His banking history showed he had made transactions and transferred large amounts of money Stephen Constantine, defending, said Eastwood was unsophisticated and described as 'capable of becoming quite confused'. He said Eastwood's wife had suffered a 'huge stroke' shortly after their marriage, could not look after herself and he was her sole carer for the best part of 20 years. Mr Constantine said: 'It would appear Mrs Eastwood deposited the money into a suitcase.' Mr Constantine said when Eastwood found the money after her death, he took it to the bank saying 'it was her money, not mine'. He said Eastwood did not fully understand what happened at the bank as he was told the money had to go in his name. Eastwood went on to pay 'various sums to various people', including large amounts to relatives, said Mr Constantine. Asking the judge to show mercy, Mr Constantine said: 'The monies were dissipated. 'He has a real fear that he could be sent to prison. He knows the difference between right and wrong. 'He's described as somebody who shows no evidence of living a lavish lifestyle. He tells me he lives a very simple life.' Judge Simon Bourne-Arton QC, the Recorder of Middlesbrough, told Eastwood: 'Sadly your wife died in 2013. 'For many years you were her carer and looked after her. I've taken that into account. 'But when she died you claimed, unbeknownst to you, she'd put away in a suitcase a large sum of money. 'I'm not prepared to accept that for one moment. Not for one moment do I accept you were unaware she had that money. 'It was yours. To claim otherwise is completely dishonest by you. You took it to the bank for your own benefit. You used it as you wished to do so. 'To the probation officer you came across as confused, or in my judgment, utterly dishonest. 'This was a determined premeditated fraud on the revenue over a period of four years.' Considering his age, previous good character and repayment, he gave Eastwood a 10-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, with 20 days rehabilitation activity. A blood-soaked Christchurch worshipper was seen wandering away the scene of a mosque massacre that left 50 dead on New Zealand's darkest day. Survivors could be seen spilling out of two Christchurch mosques on Friday afternoon with blood covering their clothes after suspected terrorist Brenton Tarrant, 28, unleashed hell. A worshipper was pictured inconsolably wandering with his tunic turned red in the street outside the Linwood Avenue mosque. The distraught man was spoken to by a crowd of people outside the police cordon before he crossed the street, his face full of dismay. The survivor wandered aimlessly from the mosque on Linwood Avenue with blood covering his chest, arms and legs after the terrorist slaughtered 50 people on Friday Face of utter despair: Seven people were killed at the Linwood Avenue mosque, another later died in hospital after the terrorist attacked the Al Noor mosque three miles away A concerned group tried to engage him before he walked away totally devastated Tarrant's sickening film showed casualties crawling across the bloody floor of the Al Noor mosque as the terror suspect unloaded rounds into them. He used a semi-automatic shotgun as well as a modified semi-automatic rifle as he pummelled victims with multiple bullets. He had taped magazines to each other and could be seen calmly reloading fresh ammunition into the gun - thought to be an AR-15. The massacre left 41 at the Al Noor Mosque dead before the suspect journeyed to the Linwood Avenue Mosque where he killed another seven victims, one more later died in hospital. It is the worst attack of its kind in the country's history and was dubbed its 'darkest day' by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. New Zealand's stricken residents reached out to Muslims in their neighbourhoods and around the country on Saturday. Ambulance staff load a victim into the back of the vehicle as they rushed to the scene of the carnage on Friday Bloodied bandages are seen on the ground following a shooting resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries at the Al Noor Mosque on Deans Avenue in Christchurch Shocked family members stand outside the mosque following a shooting resulting in 41 dead at the Al Noor scene Some offered lifts to the supermarket or volunteered to walk with their Muslim neighbours if they felt unsafe. In online forums, people discussed Muslim food restrictions as they prepared to drop off meals for those affected. 'Love always wins over hate. Lots of love for our Muslim brothers,' read a handwritten card on a wall of flowers in a historic part of the city that stretched a full block. Still, Muslims were advised to stay away from mosques while the nation's security alert remained at the second-highest level a day after the deadliest shooting in modern New Zealand history. Outside one of the two mosques, 32-year-old Ash Mohammed pushed through police barricades in hopes of finding out what happened to his father and two brothers, whose cellphones rang unanswered. An officer stopped him. 'We just want to know if they are dead or alive,' Mohammed told the officer. A man without his shoes and with blood smeared over his trousers outside the mosque in central Christchurch on Friday A victim is stretchered onto the back of an ambulance after the attack at the Al Noor Mosque on Deans Avenue A shattered car window close to the scene of the shooting at the Al Noor Mosque on Deans Avenue where 41 died An exhausted man rests on the ground as he makes a phone call as an armed police officer secures the scene Desperate for any news, families and friends of the victims gathered at the city's Hagley College, near the hospital. They included Asif Shaikh, 44, who said he was among more than 100 people at the Al Noor mosque when the attacker came in. He said he survived by playing dead, but was desperate to know what happened to his friends who were there with him. 'It's been 36 hours, I haven't heard anything about them,' he said. New Zealand, with a population of 5 million, has relatively loose gun laws and an estimated 1.5 million firearms, or roughly one for every three people. But it has one of the lowest gun homicide rates in the world. In 2015, it had just eight. Ardern said Tarrant was a licensed gun owner who bought the five guns used in the crimes legally. Two of Mr Nabi's sons Omar Nabi, 43, and Yama Nabi, 45, appeared outside Christchurch District Court on Saturday morning where they shared photos of their father Omar (pictured) said his father was one of the first Muslims in New Zealand, opening the Tuam Street mosque in Christchurch, after discovering the country was a 'slice of paradise' Mucad Ibrahim (pictured left) was attending Friday prayers with his father and older brother Abdi Ibrahim (pictured right) when a gunman stormed the al Noor mosque Mucad (pictured) reportedly ran from the attacker while his father and brother played dead 'I can tell you one thing right now, our gun laws will change,' Ardern said. She did not offer too much detail, but said a ban on semi-automatic weapons would be looked at. Neighbouring Australia has virtually banned semi-automatic rifles from private ownership since a lone gunman killed 35 people with assault rifles in 1996. Before Friday's attack, New Zealand's deadliest shooting in modern history took place in 1990 in the small town of Aramoana, where a gunman killed 13 people following a dispute with a neighbour. Milwaukee police believe they have found the body of a missing two-year-old girl from Wisconsin whose mother was found murdered this week. On Saturday the body of toddler Noelani Robinson was found in a highway ditch in southeastern Minnesota after Milwaukee Police following a tip from Friday night. When officers arrived to the scene in rural Steele County, they found the body of a young child wrapped in a blanket in the ditch. Milwaukee Police Chief Alfonso Morales announced the discovery Saturday morning saying authorities have preliminarily identified the body as Noelani, pending formal identification and preliminary autopsy results. 'This is going to be a death investigation,' Morales said on finding her body. Milwaukee police believe they have found the body of a missing two-year-old girl Noelani Robinson of Wisconsin. She was found Saturday morning wrapped in a blanket in a highway ditch in rural Steele County, Minnesota On Monday Noelani's father Dariaz Higgins allegedly shot dead the child's mother Sierra Robinson, 24, in her Milwaukee home. Noelani was reported missing when she wasn't found in the home Noelani went missing on Monday after her mother was discovered murdered in her Milwaukee, Wisconsin home. On Monday the child's mother Sierra Robinson, 24, was fatally shot and Noelani's father Dariaz Higgins was arrested two days later, accused of her murder. In that incident a friend of Robinson was also wounded. Higgins was arrested on Wednesday and charged with first degree intentional homicide, use of a dangerous weapon and first degree recklessly endangering safety, use of a dangerous weapon. Mom and baby: Noelani went missing after her mother was discovered murdered. Police issued an Amber Alert and a nationwide search Milwaukee Police Chief Alfonso Morales announced the discovery Saturday morning saying authorities have preliminarily identified the body as Noelani, pending formal identification and preliminary autopsy results Police said that while in custody Higgins offered information on the whereabouts of his daughter that was 'proven false' On Monday Sierra Robinson was found murdered in her Wisconsin home and her daughter nowhere to be found. Five days later the body of Noelani showed up in Minnesota, a state away He was not with Noelani at the time of his arrest and provided police with information on the whereabouts of his daughter that have 'proven to be untrue'. An expansive nation-wide search was launched for the little girl and an Amber Alert was issued. Milwaukee police announced a $5,000 reward for information on her whereabouts on Friday. Her body was found after an off-duty Department of Public Works employee called in the tip Friday evening saying they saw something on the side of the road on Highway 218, near Austin, Minnesota. 'At approximately 7 p.m. on yesterdays date, an off-duty department of public works employee observed something out of the norm as he was driving home,' Morales said. 'He called this tip into the local police department. Off of Highway 218 15 miles north of Austin, Minnesota (which is southwest of Rochester) and just off the shoulder was a blanket. Inside that blanket and wrapped in there was the body of a child we believe is that of Noelani,' he added. Amal Clooney will launch her own award to celebrate young inspirational women, Prince's Trust International announced. Prince Charles offered Mrs Clooney an ambassadorial role within his charity, Prince's Trust International, where she is expected to launch the Amal Clooney Award. The prominent human rights lawyer, who married George Clooney in 2014, will launch the prize that is open to inspirational women aged between 11 to 30. The couple, who are close friends with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, will cement their relationship with the royal family further this week as Mrs Clooney becomes an ambassador to the Prince's Trust. Amal and George Clooney shared a joke with Prince Charles during a dinner at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday. The Prince is said to find Amal 'deeply impressive' And women 'who have succeeded against the odds to make a difference in their communities' are encouraged to put their names forward for her award. Charles, who dined with the human rights barrister and her husband George, 57, at Buckingham Palace last Tuesday, is said to find Amal, 41, 'deeply impressive'. The first recipient of the prize will receive their award in 2020. Amal Clooney said: 'I am honoured to have been invited by Prince's Trust International to participate in this global initiative celebrating young women who are change-makers in their communities. 'It is a privilege to be able to play a part in a project that will draw attention to incredible young women who are the future leaders of our world.' The couple were joined by Chiwetel Ejiofor, Luke Evans, Tamsin Egerton, Josh Hartnett and Benedict Cumberbatch at the dinner to celebrate The Prince's Trust Amal Clooney is a barrister who specialises in public international law, international criminal law and human rights. Ranked as one of the top lawyers in the UK in her field she has previously served as a senior adviser to Kofi Annan when he was the UN's Envoy on Syria. Any women working in 'anything from sustainable farming schemes to community projects in refugee camps, to work rebuilding war zones' are encouraged to apply. Amal Clooney is a barrister who specialises in public international law, international criminal law and human rights Group Chief Executive of The Prince's Trust, Dame Martina Milburn DCVO CBE, says: 'Through the work of the Prince's Trust Group around the world, we see every day the struggles and the triumphs of women everywhere. 'We are delighted to be working with Amal to shine a light on their passion and celebrate unsung female heroes everywhere. 'There is so much we can achieve together to help young people, and their communities, all over the world.' The Prince's Trust was founded in 1976 by Prince Charles to help vulnerable youths aged between 11 to 30 get their lives back on track. Applications for the Amal Clooney Award are open to women or for others to nominate women until December 31, 2019. Nominees will be judge on how inspirational, impactful, sustainable, and life-changing their actions have been. KSTP(BARRON, Wis.) -- Even within the members of her own Wisconsin community -- which searched relentlessly for Jayme Closs for 88 days until the 13-year-old managed to escape her abductor few if any truly understand the terrifying dimensions of the young teens captivity. But Elizabeth Smart does. In a raw, remarkable speech she made to the residents of Barron, Wisconsin on Friday night, the now 31-year-old kidnapping survivor opened her heart to share her story of determination in the face of unspeakable abuse and surviving a seemingly hopeless ordeal at such a young age. "When I was kidnapped, it just brought a whole new meaning to terror, a whole new meaning to what nightmares are made of," she said. "I was taken away from my family...where my captor told me that I was now going to be his wife, that I was now going to be their slave." "That I had to do everything that they told me to do. They told me that my name was no longer Elizabeth, that I could no longer speak about my family, and that if I ever did anything that they did not want me to do, they'd kill me and if they didn't kill me, they'd...kill my family." "That was terrifying," she added. "That was enough to keep me silent because I could never allow anything to happen to my family." Smart was abducted at knife point in 2002 from her Salt Lake City, Utah home and held for nine months before her captors were spotted by two witnesses who recognized the pair from an episode of the television series "America's Most Wanted." She described the searing psychological trauma of realizing that she may never go home again. She spoke frankly about how she had been raped "within moments" of entering the campsite where her captors lived, and said that after thinking about how drastically her life had changed "in just a matter of hours" she realized that her captors didn't plan on letting her go. "This man planned on keeping me," she said. "Days? Weeks? Months? Years? What if it was so long that I forgot my name? What if it was so long that I forgot who I truly was? That thought terrified me. I never wanted to forgot who I was...where I came from...my family." She said that she closely followed the search for Closs and was moved by the community's unyielding determination to bring Closs home safe. "I have been so inspired the last few days...and I find it inspiring to see so many of you here tonight in support of Jayme and in moving forward and in reclaiming all of your lives because this has touched so many people," Smart said. Smart's visit to Barron followed just over two months after Closs escaped her captor and fled to safety earlier this year. Some of Closs' relatives were expected to attend Friday night's event at the high school gym in Barron, the town's county sheriff, Chris Fitzgerald, told ABC News Friday morning. Smart's introductory remarks were open to the public, but the press was asked to leave after about five minutes to give Smart the chance to speak privately with community members who are still recovering from the ordeal. She was expected to share more of her own story and discuss ways the Barron community can move forward, including how to talk to children about such traumatic events and what neighbors should say to Closs and her family, the sheriff said. "We're very honored to have her here," Fitzgerald said. The rural community of Barron found itself at the center of a kidnapping saga when Jake Patterson, 21, allegedly gunned down Closs' parents then abducted the 13-year-old from her home on Oct. 15. Patterson told investigators that, after the killings, he fled with the girl to his house in Gordon, Wisconsin. He allegedly created a space for Closs under his bed, and when he'd leave the house, he'd put barbells and free weights around the bed so she couldn't escape, according to a criminal complaint. On Jan. 10, when Patterson left the house, Closs fled, according to court documents. Patterson was arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree intentional homicide, kidnapping and armed burglary. He is scheduled to be arraigned on March 27. Following her abduction, Smart went on to become a national child safety advocate and is a married mother of three children. As for her captors, Barzee was released from prison in 2018 while Mitchell is serving a life sentence. After Closs' miraculous escape, Smart wrote, "I hope we may all continue to support and embrace Jayme as she reclaims her life and comes to terms with the reality of her situation. What a brave, strong, and powerful survivor!!!!" "No matter what may unfold in her story lets all try to remember that this young woman has SURVIVED and whatever other details may surface the most important will still remain that she is alive," she wrote. "May god bless you Jayme Closs and may we all continue to search for every missing child." Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. Sarah Katherine Brooks, 25, was charged with a felony count of sexual assault by persons with supervisory or disciplinary authority on Friday A former Georgia high school teacher was detained after she was accused of having a sexual relationship with one of her students. Sarah Katherine Brooks, 25, was charged with a felony count of sexual assault by persons with supervisory or disciplinary authority on Friday, according to jail records from Gwinnett County Jail. Brooks is said to have had sex during off-campus tutoring with one of her 17-year-old students from Archer High School. The woman was the teen's physical education teacher, at the time. The boy's mother said that the two had sex on at least three occasions, since October. One of those moments was said to have occurred at their family home while the mom was away at work, AJC reports. On Tuesday, Archer High School principal Ken Johnson sent a letter to parents explaining that the police were alerted after school officials learned of the alleged affair. Brooks resigned from the school, soon after. Brooks is said to have had sex during off-campus tutoring with one of her 17-year-old students from Archer High School 'On Monday we received a report about this situation and our school immediately contacted the police and the school district's Division of Human Resources,' Johnson said. 'As this has been and continues to be an active police investigation there are not many details I can share. However, I can tell you that the teacher has resigned from Gwinnett County Public Schools and the school system will be forwarding information about these allegations to the Professional Standards Commission.' 'While this is not a situation we have experienced at our school previously, one time is too many. Ethics matter, and the trust our community places in its educators matters to Archer and to Gwinnett County Public Schools. This is not something we take for granted.' Brooks has been released on $11,200 bond. Actress Lori Loughlin has received a massive shipment of six TV panels for a luxurious home theater delivered in the midst of the college bribery scandal. The hefty shipment arrived to her Bel Air mansion on Saturday, three days after she was released from jail after posting $1million bond for her involvement in the explosive cheating scam. She and her fashion designer husband Mossimo Giannulli have been charged with conspiracy to commit mail fraud for allegedly paying $500,000 to the University of Southern California to get their daughters into the school as crew recruits. The 54-year-old actress, her husband and daughters Olivia Jade, 19, and Isabella, 20, stayed out of sight as various workers were seen bringing in the cumbersome packages. Actress Lori Loughlin received six TV panels for a home theater on Saturday at her Bel Air mansion in the midst of the college cheating scandal The family has been laying low since news of the scandal broke out and remained out of sight during the delivery on Saturday afternoon The hefty shipment arrived to her Bel Air mansion on Saturday, three days after Loughlin was released from jail after posting $1million bond for her involvement in the scam The six heavy crates that measured 4x4x6 feet in dimension are said to be six TV panels for a theater The boxes pictured above being unloaded on Saturday Workers pushed the six heavy crates that measured 4x4x6 feet in dimension into the home throughout the afternoon. Following the allegations, the family has remained holed up in their home and will no doubt enjoy the added luxury of a cinema experience. After the family was shamed when the bombshell cheating report was released on Tuesday, Loughlin and Giannulli have reportedly lost many friends. 'Lori and Mossimo are finding out quickly who their real friends are,' an insider told People. 'Its not like they are the victims of a crime. They are the crime.' 'Many of their friends dont want to be associated with them right now,' the source added. 'Their friends are shocked at the allegations.' Loughlin and her husband, fashion designer Mossimo Giannulli, were both charged after being accused of paying bribes to gain their daughters' college admissions. Loughlin is pictured left in a court sketch on Wednesday, while her husband is pictured right leaving court The family is now holing up in their extravagant Bel Air mansion (above) following the scandal that broke on Tuesday She and husband Mossimo Giannulli charged with conspiracy to commit mail fraud for allegedly paying $500,000 to the USC to get their daughters Olivia Jade, 19, (left) and Isabella, 20, (right) into USC Not only are friends an issue, but the careers within the family have come to a screeching halt as well. Loughlin has been dropped from Netflix's series Fuller House and the Hallmark Channel announced Thursday it has dropped the actress following the allegations. To add to the blow, Sephora and Tresemme both announced that they have ended their partnerships with Loughlin's YouTube star daughter Olivia Jade. Their daughter, 19-year-old Olivia, who is widely known as a social media and YouTube star with millions of followers, has worked with popular beauty retailer Sephora for some time now. The scandal are has brought their careers to a standstill as Hallmark announced they're dropping Loughlin as an actress. Loughlin above with daughter Olivia Jade To add to the blow, Sephora and Tresemme both announced that they have ended their partnerships with Loughlin's YouTube star daughter Olivia Jade. Olivia pictured above flaunting her make-up palate made in collaboration with Sephora on her YouTube channel Last year, she even released her own palette as part of a collaboration with its in-house label Sephora Collection. But the company has now terminated its partnership with the teen, after it was revealed on Tuesday her parents had been charged. Hair care brand Tresemme added: 'We take this very seriously and are no longer working with Olivia.' Loughlin along with her husband Giannulli - who was also taken into federal custody and released on a separate $1million bond on Wednesday - are due back in court on March 29 in Boston. Advertisement Conor McGregor led St Patrick's Day celebrations around the US on Saturday, parading through the Windy City with his posse which included Mayor Rahm Emanuel. The pair chuckled as they walked through the streets of Illinois, with the mixed martial arts fighter giving the thumbs up gesture to onlookers. McGregor, 30, was also pictured holding up his fist as he cackled during his high profile stroll where he wore a green sash with his name emblazoned on it. Scroll down for videos Fist up: Irish mixed martial artist Conor McGregor joined the St Patrick's Day Parade in Chicago, Illinois Saturday McGregor joined Mayor of Chicago Rahm Emanuel (left) as they wore their own names on green sashes Conor gave a thumbs up gesture to the crowd on Saturday as Irish flags waved around behind him and his entourage The MMA star held a cane and laughed in front of onlookers just days after he was accused of robbery in Miami Taoiseach Leo Varadkar during the St Patrick's Day Parade taking place in Chicago on the fourth day of his annual tour to the United States Conor was accused of slapping a cell phone from a fan's hand before stamping on it after he tried to take a picture Mr McGregor was arrested and charged with robbery and criminal mischief in Miami on Monday after allegedly slapping a cell phone from a fan's hand before stamping on it after he tried to take a picture. He was released on $12,5000 bail. The sportsman marched through the streets alongside Irish premier Leo Varadkar who was in Chicago on the fourth day of his annual St Patricks Day tour to the United States. Chicago also celebrated by turning dying its river green. Millions of other people got off to start early this year on the holiday that falls March 17. Revelers set out in major cities around the United States to show their Irish pride. Some of those places included New York City, Chicago and Savannah. As the latter city got swept up in the action, one man, Joey Homans,didn't let holding his three-month-old granddaughter Caroline Homans in one hand stop him from clutching a beer in the other. A boat is seen spraying the water with the green dye used to turn the water a green hue temporarily for the occasion An aerial view of the Chicago River as it winds its way through downtown after being dyed green in celebration of St. Patrick's Participants before the St Patrick's Day Parade in Chicago really got into the spirit of things and donned green facial hair Participants appeared all dressed up in green before the St Patrick's Day Parade in Chicago, Illinois on Saturday One of the participants in the St Patrick's Day Parade in Chicago appeared wearing a jacket with shamrocks printed on Started by Irish immigrants to Georgia's oldest city 195 years ago, the March parade has ballooned into a sprawling street party that's the No. 1 tourist draw for Savannah. A Yonkers Fire Pipe and Drum drummer reacted with surprise and delight to being kissed by Kayla DeJesus while he marched in the parade. In New York, thousands gathered too. Joey Homans holds his 3-month-old granddaughter Caroline Homans in one hand and a beer in the other before the start of the Savannah St. Patrick's Day parade A Yonkers Fire Pipe and Drum drummer reacts to being kissed by Kayla DeJesus, right, while he marches in the 195-year-old Savannah St. Patrick's Day parade Started by Irish immigrants to Georgia's oldest city 195 years ago, the March parade has ballooned into a sprawling street party that's the No. 1 tourist draw for Savannah Ashleigh Burns, center, laughs with her friend Emily Doyle, left, as she drinks a beverage from a red plastic cup The New York City St. Patrick's Day parade, dating back to 1762, is the world's largest St. Patrick's Day celebration. Hundreds of officers and service members gathered for the 2019 festivities and the New York Police Department Band had a large presence with their huge banner on display. Starting around 44th street in Manhattan, dancers performed along 5th Avenue passing the St. Patrick's Cathedral on 51st street, all the way up to around 79th street near Central Park on the Upper East Side. Babies were also at the parade in New York City. One is pictured wrapped up for the cold weather as spectators gather Painted green, white and orange: Thousands gathered for the 2019 annual St. Patrick's Day parade on Saturday in New York The New York City St. Patrick's Day parade, dating back to 1762, is the world's largest St. Patrick's Day celebration Hundreds of officers and service members gather for the 2019 annual St. Patrick's Day parade in New York City The New York Police Department Band had a huge presence at the parade and led with their huge banner St Patrick's Day falls March 17 every year so cities celebrated a day early to allow for recovery the following day on Sunday Bagpipers marched wearing kilts on 5th Avenue during the annual New York City St Patrick's Day Parade A piper marches on 5th Avenue during the annual New York City St. Patrick's Day Parade in Manhattan's Midtown area Dancers perform on 5th Avenue passing the St. Patrick's Cathedral on 51st during the annual New York City event Dancers perform high kicks on 5th Avenue passing the St Patrick's Cathedral during the annual NYC St. Patrick's Day Parade A boy dressed as 'Uncle Sam' and a girl dressed in all green make their way up 5th Avenue during the annual Parade Women wear clover glasses as he she watches the 258th St Patrick's Day Parade on 5th Avenue in Manhattan in New York A police diver found a knife that is believed to have been used to stab a teenager to death during a gang feud. The knife is thought to have been hurled into a river by the killers of Tavis Spencer-Aitkens, 17, who died after being stabbed 15 times by rival gang members in Ipswich, Suffolk, on June 2 last year. A search was launched in the River Gipping in Ipswich after witnesses in nearby flats reported seeing a 'shiny object' being hurled in the water. A police diver has found an eight-inch knife that is believed to have been used in the stabbing of 17-year-old Tavis Spencer-Aitkens in Ipswich, Suffolk A search was launched in the River Gipping in Ipswich after witnesses in nearby flats reported seeing a 'shiny object' being hurled in the water Tavis Spencer-Aitkens, 17, was attacked just yards from his family home in Ipswich on June 2 last year The knife with an eight-inch blade was found eight days after Tavis was fatally attacked last year outside his father's home in Ipswich. Four members of a gang were last week convicted of murdering the teenager who had a bottle smashed over his head and was stabbed 15 times. The trial at Ipswich Crown Court heard how all four killers were in a gang called J-Block which took its name from the Jubilee Park area of Ipswich. The gang members were enemies of a rival gang which Tavis belonged to, called Neno or IP3 after the postcode of the Nacton area of Ipswich. Kyries Davies, 17 (left), and Isaac Calver, 19 (right) have been found guilty of murdering Tavis Spencer-Aitkens. The duo rap under the names Youngz and Flex Both gangs regularly recorded music and uploaded videos to YouTube making gun gestures and rapping about their hatred of their rivals. Some of their videos have over 100,000 views. The three month trial heard how Tavis was 'butchered' in a revenge attack after J-Block members Aristote Yenge, 23, and Kyries Davies who was then aged 16 suffered a loss of face. The pair of 'aspiring rappers' were spotted by two friends of Tavis who pursued them into a Lush soap and cosmetics store in Ipswich town centre, shouting IP3 at them in front of terrified shoppers and staff. Police stopped them from being attacked by making the friends of Tavis leave the store, the trial heard. The incident represented 'a moral victory' for the Neno group as Yenge and Davies had hidden rather than standing their ground close to their group's 'home turf', said prosecutor Oliver Glasgow QC. The four men are awaiting sentencing which will take place on the week commencing April 29 As a result, the pair rounded up some of their friends and went to the Nacton estate on a revenge mission two hours later. Tavis was spotted by his rivals outside shops and followed into nearby Packard Avenue where he was attacked. The van which transported the gang members was later seen near the River Gipping where the knife was dumped. The trial heard how 'unsurprisingly' there was no blood or DNA on the knife, but it was believed to have been used in the murder. Residents who saw the object being thrown into the water described it as being a dark-handled knife or machete and seeing 'a flash when the blade caught the sun'. Yenge, of no fixed abode, Davies, now 17, of Colchester, Essex, Adebayo Amusa, 20, of Barking, east London and Isaac Calver, 19, of Ipswich, were all convicted of murder after being linked to the attack by forensic and mobile phone evidence. All had denied the charge. Judge Martyn Levett lifted an order banning identification of Davies who was known as Youngz and recorded several videos for his gang. Another gang member Callum Plaats, 23, of Ipswich, who was captured on CCTV riding to the scene by bicycle was convicted of manslaughter, but found not guilty of murder. Callum Plaats, 23, from Ipswich, was cleared of murder but found guilty of manslaughter All of them will be sentenced on April 29. Leon Glasgow, 42, of no fixed address, who had used his colleague's delivery van to take the four murderers to the scene was cleared of murder and manslaughter after he insisted he did not know what they were planning. The court heard how Tavis's step sister Candice Sobers rushed outside to find him lying on his side with blood on his face and clothing. She asked him who had done it and he replied: 'J-Block, man' before adding, 'There was too many of them' as he began to struggle for breath. Tavis's father Neville Aitkens said outside court: 'We're very pleased with the convictions and are glad these defendants will now pay for their actions. 'It has been a heartbreaking time and the loss of Tavis has shattered our lives. 'To know these defendants will now be punished for their senseless crime and will face the consequences of their actions at least gives us some closure. 'Tavis - our beautiful son, stepson, and brother, who we miss dearly was brutally murdered and taken away from his loved ones. 'Our lives have been changed forever. The pain has been unbearable. 'Who were these people to judge Tavis? What right had they to take his life? 'We will forever live with our broken hearts, but to know these defendants are off our streets, and the family and Tavis have justice, is welcoming. Tavis's mother, Sharon Box said: 'Too many lives have been lost because of knife crime. 'The pain we feel is indescribable. There is no escape from it. 'Those who did so will never know how much we loved Tavis - and still do. If they could truly understand that, they would never have hurt him. 'Tavis was cruelly and unnecessarily taken from us by uncaring, wicked individuals. 'Their actions have robbed us of someone so precious and they deserved to be found guilty of killing my son. 'If it was up to me I would never let them leave prison - never.' Detective Chief Inspector Mike Brown, of Suffolk Police's Major Investigation Team, describe the attack on Tavis as 'frenzied' and 'cowardly'. He said: 'Knives have no place on our streets and we must educate both children and young adults, who think that carrying one will make them safer and offer protection, that the reality is there is a greater risk that it will either be used by the person carrying it, or against them. 'I don't want to watch another family suffer as Tavis' family have. 'Knife crime is a societal issue and it is incumbent on all responsible authorities - including the police and councils to work alongside the many support agencies and with local communities to eradicate this evil.' Advertisement A Nebraska farmer is being hailed as a hero for trying to save a driver stuck in the devastating floods that are the worst the state has experienced in 50 years. Columbus farmer James Wilke, 50, headed out early on Thursday morning to help the driver after he was called to assist emergency responders. But his massive tractor caused a bridge over the Shell Creek to collapse, sending Wilke down the flooded creek, a family friend said in a Friday Facebook post. 'James' body was recovered later in the afternoon along the creek bed close to their home,' said Jodi Hefti in the post. 'Those who know James know it was his way of telling his wife, family and friends goodbye and that he is 'home'.' Scroll down for videos Columbus farmer James Wilke, 50, died on Thursday after he tried to ride his tractor out to help a stranded motorist Wilke is the only reported casualty of the devastating floods that were a result of the heavy snowfall that hit the Midwest in the last few weeks Wilke's cousin, Paul Wilke, was eventually able to save the stranded driver after his cousin was swept away. 'He was always the first to go help somebody,' Paul explained to the Omaha World-Herald.'He was a person who wouldn't just talk about making things better. He would do it.' Hefti added: 'Not all HEROES wear capes or uniforms. I know a TRUE HERO who wore a T-shirt, blue jeans, work boots and drove a John Deer Tractor.' Wilke is the only reported casualty of the devastating floods that were a result of the heavy snowfall that hit the Midwest in the last few weeks. Two other men are said to be missing and 30-year-old Scott E. Goodman is believed to have been swept away by harsh waters near Norfolk, the Norfolk Daily News reports. 53 of the 93 counties in Nebraska have issued an emergency declaration as of midday Saturday Governor Pete Ricketts issued a state of emergency on Tuesday. On Friday he said at a press conference: 'This is probably the most widespread flooding damage we've had in the last half-century' Ricketts and Unicameral Speaker Jim Scheer surveyed the historic flooding in various parts of northeast Nebraska on Friday Authorities confirmed that a bridge on that highway that crosses the Elkhorn River had been washed out Saturday Accuweather reports that 53 of the 93 counties in Nebraska have issued an emergency declaration as of midday Saturday. Governor Pete Ricketts issued a state of emergency on Tuesday. On Friday he said at a press conference: 'This is probably the most widespread flooding damage we've had in the last half-century.' Ricketts and Unicameral Speaker Jim Scheer surveyed the historic flooding in various parts of northeast Nebraska on Friday, according to a news release from the governor's office. 'Nebraskans looking to support response efforts should contact their local emergency manager and the Nebraska Red Cross,' the release added. Highway 81 north of Norfolk is covered in flood waters as of Thurday A pickup drives along Old Hadar Road north of Norfolk, Neb., with floodwaters rushing through the field beside it An abandoned car sits on Industrial Highway as it is bombarded by flood waters in Norfolk A few hours later, Ricketts' office released another statement directing the Nebraska State Patrol to temporarily waive the truck size requirements in a move to get more support. 'This will help move materials more efficiently around the state as we work together to respond to the impacts of the flooding and severe weather.' Rescue efforts in eastern Nebraska were hampered by reports of levee breaches and washouts of bridges and roads, including part of Nebraska Highway 92, leading in and out of southwest Omaha. Authorities confirmed that a bridge on that highway that crosses the Elkhorn River had been washed out Saturday. Murky mush covers the Industrial Highways as a result of the flood A family heads out on the Elk River's swollen waters to access their property Thousands of people have been urged to evacuate along eastern Nebraska rivers In Freemont, west of Omaha, the Dodge County Sheriff's Office issued a mandatory evacuation for some residents after floodwaters broke through a levee along the Platte River. And in Mills County, Iowa, authorities ordered people in some rural areas to evacuate after the Missouri River overtopped levees. A GoFundMe has been launched to help save Nebraskan farmer John Carroll's 250 San Clemente Island Goats. It has raised just under $6,000 of its 10,000 goal. 'The goats food source has been destroyed or contaminated. Some of the goats will need medical care, medication & other supplies due to the contaminated water, stress, and evacuation,' the post said. 'The fencing that contained them has been destroyed. The farm was not spared. There is so much work that needs to be done before they can return to the farm.' Carroll took to his own Twitter so offer his thanks at all the help he was getting to save the goats. 'Together, we spent HOURS in frigid water rescuing our beloved San Clemente Goats,' he said. Thank you everyone who reached out. For now, we rest our weary heads.' A GoFundMe has been launched to help save Nebraskan farmer John Carroll's 250 San Clemente Island Goats. It has raised just under $6,000 of its 10,000 goal Donald Trump's former business partner is being sued for $50million by his three sons who say the billionaire real estate developer refuses to give them access to their slice of the family fortune. Elie Hirschfeld, 69, is refusing to acknowledge their interests in company properties which he transferred to his sons when they were young - before divorcing their mother. His estranged children Benjamin, 21, Jonathan, 20, and 19-year-old Matthew are said to want $50 million in damages plus parts of the real estate and access to a trust. Hirschfeld, who split from their mother Susan in 2009, won't grant them their rightful share of the properties, Page Six reports. He is understood to have given the boys interests in several New York and New Jersey buildings as children. They say he now refuses to give them any information on the properties, including 328, 330 and 336 East 61st Street and 218 East 79th Street. The boys' attorney Jay Freiberg said: 'We met with Elies lawyers, and they continued a pattern that has been ongoing for a long time of obfuscation and hiding these assets. The boys didnt want to rush into this, but their hand was forced.' Elie Hirschfeld, president of Hirschfeld Properties, is being sued by his three estranged sons Matthew Hirschfeld, left, his brothers Ben, right, and Jonathan, say their billionaire real estate developer dad refuses to give them access to their inheritance Jonathan, pictured, and his two brothers are said to want $50 million in damages plus parts of the real estate and access to a trust from their dad after he split with their mom in 2009 Court papers say: 'Now, with Elie estranged from his three children, who have all recently reached the age of majority, Elie refuses to acknowledge plaintiffs interest in these properties or to account for the income these properties have been earning since these interests were irrevocably transferred to plaintiffs. 'Elie has hidden these interests from his children and continues to cover up these interests in an effort to defraud the plaintiffs. 'Indeed, a note by Elie contains the following "[o]nly liability is kids may sue me later". 'Plaintiffs now have their voices and are determined to receive from their father what rightfully belongs to them.' Elie is understood to have given the boys interests in several New York and New Jersey buildings as children. Pictured is 328, 330 and 336 East 61st Street in New York City They say he now refuses to give them any information on the properties, including 218 East 79th Street, pictured Elie, son of the late Abe Hirschfeld, called his sons' claims 'meritless' Elie, president of Hirschfeld Properties and son of the late Abe Hirschfeld, told The New York Post: 'The most innocent explanation for these meritless claims, dating back over 10 years, is that my sons and their lawyer simply are misinformed. 'Unfortunately, another likely explanation is that the claims are another in a series of legal battles related to the contentious divorce between me and my sons mother.' It has emerged that a registered child sex offender has been reading to children at Houston Public Library as part of its Drag Queen Storytime. A group called Mass Resistance, which has been trying to put an end to the program and contacted KHOU about the pedophile. The action group claimed that it had been asking the City of Houston for months to disclose information about the drag queens but got no response. Houston Public Library has banned a man, Alfonso Garza, 32, who had been previously charged for sexually assaulting a child from reading to children at Drag Queen Storytime Drag Queen Storytime is part of a national program that aims to promote love and acceptance An action group has claimed that it had been asking the City of Houston for months to disclose information about the drag queens but got no response. The library is pictured, avon=== It was only after the group did their own digging that the shocking link was revealed. The library has confirmed that one of the program's drag queens, Tatiana Mala Nina, is Alberto Garza, a 32-year-old child sex offender who in 2008, he was convicted of assaulting an eight-year-old boy. 'Most parents would not allow that individual to sit in this library and be held up as a role model to our children. Shame on you, Mayor Sylvester Turner!' said Tracy Shannon with Mass Resistance. The Houston Public Library has now admitted that a proper background check on Garza was not carried out but what he will not be invited to participate in any future library programs. Garza was charged with child sex assault in 2008. According to records, his victim was a child under the age of 14 years old. The library said each program is supervised by staff, and all children are accompanied by a parent or guardian, the library said. 'In our review of our process and of this participant, we discovered that we failed to complete a background check as required by our own guidelines. We deeply regret this oversight and the concern this may cause our customers. We realize this is a serious matter,' the library said in a statement. Protesters say they want people to be fired over the lack of oversight. 'If they had done their job and due diligence, if they had said wait...maybe it's not a good idea to have a sex offender who at 200 pounds and 5-foot-11 assaulted an 8-year-old boy!' Shannon said. 'We may not all agree that having adult entertainers is the right way to entertain young children or promote literacy and adversity and acceptance and inclusion,' she continued, 'but we can all agree that it's inappropriate to have a sex offender. And for someone to not do their due diligence, to have a sex offender entertaining children at the library.' Drag Queen Storytime is part of a national program that aims to promote love and acceptance. The storytimes are supervised by staff. Theibrary said. The library said Friday that a review revealed the volunteer never completed a background check before he was allowed to participate in the program. A registered child sex offender has been reading to children at Houston Public Library as part of its Drag Queen Storytime Despite opponents of the scheme suing the library and Mayor Turner, the lawsuit was dismissed by a judge in January. Houston Public Library released the following lengthy statement: 'We were made aware today that one participant for Drag Queen storytime who read at the September 29, 2018, Drag Queen Storytime has a criminal background that should have prevented him from participating in the program. 'We assure you that this participant will not be involved in any future HPL programs. 'In our review of our process and of this participant, we discovered that we failed to complete a background check as required by our own guidelines. We deeply regret this oversight and the concern this may cause our customers. We realize this is a serious matter. 'Every program sponsored by HPL is supervised by HPL staff, and all children are accompanied by a parent and/or guardian. No participant is ever alone with children, and we have not received any complaints about any inappropriate behavior by participants at storytimes. 'We are taking the appropriate action to ensure that the status of every participant in every program throughout our system is verified. We will continue to review our process to ensure that this cannot happen again. 'Once again, we apologize for our failure to adhere to our own process in this matter and to the hundreds of parents and caregivers who have enjoyed this program with their children.' Thousands of protesters have gathered around the world to mourn the deaths of the 50 people murdered in New Zealand and condemn anti-Muslim terrorism. The crowds in the majority Muslim countries of Turkey, Pakistan and Morocco have unfurled banners denouncing the rise of far-right violence. Around 500 people in Turkey held a symbolic funeral in Istanbul for the victims of the attack. Hundreds gather by the Hagia Sofia in Turkey to condemn the New Zealand mosque terror attack Protesters denounced terrorism and Islamophobia following the attack which saw 50 Muslims killed The right-wing extremist charged over the attacks in Christchurch apparently published a manifesto online that Turkish media said contained specific references to Turkey. The crowds of mainly nationalist and Islamic groups displayed banners reading 'Muslims, stand tall!' and 'Muslims, unite!' and conducted a short prayer service for the victims. Faruk Hanedar, one of the demonstrators, said: 'Everyone is aware of the rising Islamophobia all over the world; assailants find the courage to launch such attacks because of Muslims' timidity. Brenton Tarrant, the 28-year-old Australian suspect behind the attacks, reportedly wrote a manifesto with references to Turkey Muslims in Lahore, Pakistan, responded peacefully to the attacks in a show of solidarity with the victims In Peshawar, Pakistan, a picture of the terror suspect Brenton Tarrant was burned to cheers from the demonstrators 'We are here to show Muslims are able to respond to them with a smart attitude. In Lahore, Pakistan, demonstrators held signs saying 'against xenophobia, Islamophobia, terrorism and racism. Pakistani protesters also burned a picture of the Australian suspect Brenton Tarrant. In Rabat, Morocco, Muslim demonstrators gathered outside the parliament building to condemn the horrific attack and 'call for stopping the campaign of hostility and racism'. The Friday attacks on worshippers are thought to be the worst act of terror against Muslims in the West In Rabat, Morocco, a man holds a sign which says 'terrorism has no religion' in a response to the attack The Friday attacks on worshippers are thought to be the worst act of terror against Muslims in the West and have sparked an outpouring of grief and horror across the globe. Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday condemned the murders, saying that hostility towards Islam was spreading in Western countries 'like a cancer'. He said: 'With this attack, hostility towards Islam, that the world has been idly watching and even encouraging for some time, has gone beyond individual harassment to reach the level of mass killing.' This means they will not function properly in about 30 per cent of the country But the new smart meters cannot yet be linked up with a central energy database More than five million homes cannot yet be equipped with smart energy meters because they wouldnt work properly if they were installed. Energy suppliers have been ordered by the Government to start installing a new type of smart meter from now on. However, The Mail on Sunday understands that these second-generation devices will not function properly in about 30 per cent of the country because they cannot yet be linked up with a central energy database. Technical issues mean that suppliers are having trouble installing smart meters in about 30 per cent of homes across the UK [File photo] Homes in remote rural areas and in the North of England and Scotland are most likely to be affected. Just like the smart meters already fitted in 12 million British homes, the new devices officially called SMETS 2 meters are supposed to send usage data to power suppliers automatically. Homeowners get instant feedback about how much they are spending on gas and electricity via a small screen in their house. Crucially, many of the first-generation models installed so far lose their smart functions if the customer switches supplier. Nearly a million have gone dumb in the UK. Second-generation meters can cope with a switch of supplier but only if they are working properly to start with. The Government has told energy suppliers that they must offer every household and small business a smart meter by the end of 2020. Smart meters show customers the cost of their energy in real time. It is hoped they will save households money by encouraging them to reduce the power they use [File photo] However, new rules state that only second-generation devices count towards this target. If companies fail to meet the deadline, they face being fined by the industry regulator, Ofgem. A senior energy industry source told The Mail on Sunday: We are caught between the obligation to roll out smart meters as fast as we can and the infrastructure for the next generation of smart meters not yet being ready across the whole country. A Government spokesman said second-generation smart meters are part of an essential upgrade to our national infrastructure. Officials at the Data Communication Company, which is responsible for upgrading the smart meter communications infrastructure, insisted that almost all homes will be able to have a smart meter fitted by the end of the year and said suppliers will not be allowed to fit smart meters unless they are sure they will function properly. Authorities have issued the all clear after receiving reports of a possible shooter on the University of Michigan campus, saying there is no threat to the community. As many as 20 callers reported hearing shots fired in Mason Hall on the campus in Ann Arbor, Michigan, while outside on the central-campus Diag a vigil was held for the New Zealand shooting victims, officials said. The university issued a flash bulletin to students at 4.55pm: 'UM Emergency Alert - Mason Hall Run Hide Fight.' Emergency radio traffic indicated that a group of female students told responding police that they had been popping balloons and screaming. Police rush to the scene after reports of an active shooter at UMich. Officials say there is no active threat to the community but advise the public to stay clear of the area Police responded to the University of Michigan on Saturday after reports of an active shooter The school later said in a statement: 'Officers were able to confirm a report of balloon popping activity in the area where the sounds of shots fired were reported to have been heard.' 'Preliminary information indicates that the activity was not the result of malicious intent,' the statement continued. Just days after the massacre in New Zealand, the alert send terrified students fleeing for cover and hiding behind barricaded doors. 'Hiding in a bathroom please please pray for us,' one student wrote on Twitter. She continued: 'The police are campus clearing building by building they havent gotten to us yet i really hope i can go home soon i cant stop shaking.' Even after officials cleared the area where that student was hiding, her terror lingered. 'Im just starting to calm down and the shock is leaving and now i cant stop crying even if it was a false alarm like theyre saying it was real to us i thought i was going to die,' she wrote. The university said at 5.19pm that the reports of a shooter were still unconfirmed. 'Unconfirmed reports of active shooter, Officers are in the area checking. Stay away from the area of Mason Hall,' the university said in an alert. Officials said in an alert at 5.32pm that there does not appear to be an active threat, but warned the community to stay clear of the area as police work the scene. 'There does not appear to be an active threat to the community. DPSS continues to investigate. Continue to stay clear of area,' the school's public safety department wrote in an alert. 'There does not appear to be an active threat at UofM at this time,' the Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office said at 5.35pm. 'Reports of shots fired on campus are unfounded at this time. UofM DPSS continues to investigate and asks that you stay clear of the area,' the sheriff's office said. At 7.50pm, the investigation was complete, and the UMich Department of Public Safety issued an all clear indicating that the incident was a false alarm. 'All Clear. Police have determined there is no threat to the community. Buildings are open. All clear,' the department said. The Prime Minister has been advised that, if her agreement is rejected again this week then the Commons would have the power to delay Brexit indefinitely Theresa May has warned Tory MPs that if her Brexit deal fails to pass the Commons this week the UK will be stuck in the Brussels version of a Hotel California unable ever to leave the EU. The Prime Minister has been advised that, if her troubled agreement is rejected again this week forcing her to apply to the EU for a long extension to Article 50 then the Commons would have the power to delay Brexit indefinitely. The officials warned Mrs May that, because a delay which runs beyond June would oblige the UK to participate in this years European parliamentary elections, there is effectively no limit to the number of extensions of Article 50 the UK can ask for or be required to ask for by Parliament. Mrs May said last night: The idea of the British people going to the polls to elect MEPs three years after voting to leave the EU hardly bears thinking about. There could be no more potent symbol of Parliaments collective political failure. The Government has been locked in critical negotiations with the DUP this weekend to persuade them to sign up to Mrs Mays deal. Their discussions have focused on Attorney General Geoffrey Coxs clarification of his legal advice on the backstop. Downing Street hopes that, if the DUP backs the deal, most rebel Tory MPs would then also fall into line. With another tumultuous week in prospect at Westminster, The Mail on Sunday today reveals that: No 10 believes the delay to Brexit can be limited to under two months if MPs back the deal. Leave-supporting MPs, led by former Brexit Secretary David Davis, have signed a public letter urging Tory MPs to vote for the deal. A suicide squad of hardline Brexiteers is plotting to blow up Mrs Mays Government if she tries to impose a long delay to Brexit. Moves to deselect pro-Remain Tory MPs have reportedly started in more than 50 local associations after last weeks Commons voting drama. Allies of Boris Johnson have claimed that Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt and Health Secretary Matt Hancock are trying to stitch up a post-May leadership contest by keeping Brexiteers off the ballot paper. Chief Secretary to the Treasury Liz Truss has added to the sense of civil war in the party by condemning virtue-signalling vultures in the Cabinet, who she accused of pandering to Left-wing whingers. The Government's discussions with the DUP have focused on Attorney General Geoffrey Coxs clarification of his legal advice on the backstop Downing Street is this weekend targeting the 78 Tory MPs it needs to persuade to change their minds by using WhipsApp a blizzard of promises and threats on social messaging apps. If the party whips do not think Mrs May has the numbers by tomorrow evening, her deal will not be put to a vote. If that happens or it is put to a vote and she loses the Prime Minister will fly to Brussels on Thursday to ask for an extension of up to two years: the EU is expected to attach stringent conditions, such as the UKs continued membership of a Customs Union, as the price for agreeing the extension. That would then have to be passed by both the Commons and the Lords before March 29 to avoid a No Deal Brexit. A senior Government source told The Mail on Sunday that the Tory rebels should appreciate the constitutional consequences of a long extension: At the very least, the UK would be expected to take part in the European Parliament elections, at a cost of more than 100 million. Allies of Boris Johnson have claimed that Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt (left) and Health Secretary Matt Hancock (right) are trying to stitch up a post-May leadership contest by keeping Brexiteers off the ballot paper A source said: 'It truly is the Hotel California Brexit, as No 10 has been making clear to the rebels. In Hotel California, The Eagles famously sang: You can check out any time you like but you can never leave Once the UK has taken part in the EU elections there is effectively no limit to the number of extensions of Article 50 the UK can ask for or be required to ask for by Parliament. Multiple extensions are permissible up to the date of the next European elections. The source added: It truly is the Hotel California Brexit, as No 10 has been making clear to the rebels. In Hotel California, The Eagles famously sang: You can check out any time you like but you can never leave. If, however, Mrs May puts her deal to a vote and wins, she will ask for an extension to Article 50 up to June 30 to prepare the legislation for Brexit. But No 10 claims that the necessary legislation could be passed by April 25, preparing the way for a new Brexit date in May. Leave-supporting MPs, led by former Brexit Secretary David Davis, have signed a public letter urging Tory MPs to vote for the deal Mrs May said last night: If Parliament can agree the deal before the European Council on March 21, we will seek a short technical extension to pass the necessary legislation. That is not an ideal outcome we could and should have been leaving the EU on March 29. But it is something the British people would accept if it led swiftly to delivering Brexit. The alternative if Parliament cannot agree the deal is much worse. EU leaders would require a clear purpose for any extension that was not merely technical. If the proposal were to go back to square one and negotiate a new deal, that would mean a much longer extension almost certainly requiring the UK to participate in the European Parliament elections in May. Sabine Griego, 81, was arrested on Tuesday by authorities in New Mexico A former priest raped an 8-year-old girl nearly 30 years ago to the point where she vomited - only to then force her to clean up the mess, it has been alleged. Sabine Griego, 81, was arrested on Tuesday at his New Mexico home for the alleged assault and other rapes involving the girl. Griego, a resident of Las Vegas, New Mexico, has been charged with one count of sexual penetration of a minor and coercion resulting in great bodily harm and mental anguish. The charges are just the latest allegations against Griego, who has also been accused of sexually assaulting more than 30 children over decades while in the Archdiocese of Santa Fe, according to the Santa Fe New Mexican. Between 1993 and 1995, Griego was implicated in eight closed cases. He was put on leave from the church in 1993, but it wasnt until 2005 that he was formally dismissed from clerical duties. Griego is currently being held without bond at the San Miguel County Detention Center in Las Vegas. Authorities allege that the archdiocese knew of the latest rape allegations made by the girl, Jane Doe A, for at least 15 years. The arrest want cites a 2004 letter, which was marked confidential, and signed by then-Archbishop Michael J. Sheehan. The letter provides direct evidence that the rape occurred and that the archdiocese discovered it after conducting its own investigation. Griego is currently being held without bond at the San Miguel County Detention Center in Las Vegas, New Mexico In 2017, the archdiocese released a list of 78 priests that it said had been credibly accused of sexual abuse against children. Griego began his clerical career at Cristo Rey Catholic Church in Santa Fe in 1964. He then served in Albuquerque, Ruidoso, and Las Vegas. Griego then returned to Queen of Heaven Church in Albuquerque, where the alleged assault against Jane Doe A took place. The first alleged rape took place after Griego took the girl to the church rectory. He told her that they would play a special game, authorities allege. It was during the assault that the girl vomited and was then forced to clean up the mess, authorities allege. The girl told investigators that Griego raped her numerous times and that on a few occasions he made her drink wine. Griego is also alleged to have used a wooden spoon to assault and beat her. Griego is alleged to have targeted the girl when she was just in second grade at Queen of Heaven Catholic School. She told investigators that Griego would spend time with her after school and over lunch. He also offered her weird black Halloween candy, police allege. On one occasion, Griego began to allegedly rape her, knocking her to the floor and covering her mouth. Griego has been implicated in at least eight cases that have been closed. He is believed to have raped dozens of children She then bit his hand, prompting Griego to slap her. He then continued with the rape. A year later, during another rape, Griego got angry with the girl and slammed her face into a table, resulting in a broken nose, police allege. She was taken to a hospital and treated. She told her mother she broke her nose during physical education class. Investigators obtained X-rays from Lovelace Hospital from November 1991, when the alleged rape occurred. The X-rays confirm the girl suffered trauma to her nose. The alleged victim was interviewed by authorities this past October, according to the Attorney Generals Office. She said she did not report the priest because he threatened to kill her, cut out her tongue, or harm her mother. Griego eventually left Queen of Heaven when the girl was in fourth grade. She only told her parents about what happened when she was 13 years old. By that point, she began having nightmares and started to harm herself. But law enforcement only learned about the alleged rape last year. Police also said they obtained a legal document dated 1994. The document indicates that Griego was reported to the Archdiocese of Santa Fe by another priest. According to Griegos LinkedIn profile, he studied medical ethics as a postgraduate at the University of New Mexico. From 2000 until 2017, he worked as a professor at Luna Community College, not far from his home. Prince Harry set hearts racing as attended the Mountbatten Festival of Music tonight to watch bands from the Royal Marines deliver a stirring performance while raising money for the unit's charity. The Duke of Sussex, who serves as the Captain General of the Royal Marines, came in his best marine dress and rose to his feet to join in a powerful rendition of God Save the Queen at the event at the Royal Albert Hall. Photos of Prince Harry in his navy outfit were shared on social media, with several fans expressing their admiration of the look. The Prince's appearance was somewhat of a surprise, with Kensington Palace only announcing his attendance hours before the event. Prince Harry and the Commandant General of the Royal Marines, Major general Charles Stickland arriving at the Mountbatten Festival of Music The Duke of Sussex rose to his feet and joined in with a stirring rendition of God Save the Queen The Marine bands performed a range of different songs, playing versions of popular hits by Take That and the Greatest Showman, among other big-band anthems. Prince Harry was the guest of honour at the two-hour musical extravaganza, which also marked the 75th anniversary of D-Day. All proceeds from the event will go to The Royal Marines Charity and CLIC Sargent. More than 200 musicians took to the stage to perform during the night. Prince Harry was joined at the event by the Commandant General of the Royal Marines, Major general Charles Stickland. However, all eyes seemed to be glued to the Duke of Sussex and his Marine dress. One fan took to Twitter to write: 'I love a man in uniform. He looks like a prince from a fairytale.' The Marine bands performed a range of different songs, playing versions of popular hits by Take That and the Greatest Showman among other anthems Money from the two-hour musical extravaganza was donated to the Royal Marines charity Another commented: 'The Duke of Sussex looks amazing in his uniform.' While a third simply said: 'Duke of hotness.' Prince Harry's appearance comes just two days after he attended an event in London about mental health. The Duke of Sussex appeared in excellent spirits as he arrived for the event, smiling broadly. The royal sspoke of the need for a 'multi agency approach' to address mental health issues across Britain while speaking to a group of academics the conference, which is aimed at addressing mental health problems among veterans. Vile landlords breaking the law by offering free accommodation in return for sex are today exposed in a shocking investigation by The Mail on Sunday. An astonishing quarter of a million women have been targeted by sleazy men hoping to entice them into sharing a bed. In January, legal guidance was changed to make such exploitation punishable by up to seven years in prison. Rotherham, Yorkshire: Advertising for a girl who needs somewhere to stay rent-free, Andrew Bird, above, invited our reporter to share his one-bed council flat in Rotherham in exchange for daily sex, telling her in an email: I get to f*** you whenever I want. When they met up in a pub, he claimed to be allergic to condoms and said: I like the idea that I could get you pregnant. He added that weekends would be a break from their arrangement because he would be too tired after weekly video games all-nighters But just days ago The Mail on Sunday found vast numbers of sex-for-rent offers still on the web. Our undercover reporters posing as young women struggling to afford accommodation replied to some of the men, who then emailed to describe their expectations in graphic detail. In person they were even more explicit. Our expose comes after homeless charity Shelter revealed that about 250,000 women have been offered sex-for-rent in the past five years. Our team of undercover reporters, all women in their 20s, was inundated with a string of explicit messages from men across the country after replying to adverts for free rooms. Gravesend, Kent: Seeking a student to stay in his council house in exchange for intimacy and companionship, Colin Luck, 48, above, met our reporter and told her: I thought if its mutually beneficial for both people and no one gets harmed and no one gets hurt, whats the harm in it?' And during a series of meetings, the reporters were told they would have to perform sickening sex acts to live rent-free. In one disturbing case, our reporter was told by a man on benefits who wanted to sublet his one-bed council flat that he wanted to have daily unprotected sex. Andrew Bird, a 30-year-old vacuum-cleaner fixer from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, told our reporter: I like the idea of the risk of pregnancy. Essex electrician Tony Crossley offered a room in his house in Rayleigh free for fun. When asked to clarify what fun meant, he replied: Fun is spending a couple of nights with me. In text messages following a meeting, he suggested our reporter perform oral sex as an icebreaker. Landlords often target young female students struggling to fund themselves through university. In an advert on Craigslist, a website for classified adverts, Colin Luck from Gravesend in Kent described himself as a professional man offering a student free lodging and financial assistance in exchange for intimacy and companionship. Meeting our reporter, he told her: We get together a couple of times a week. He assured her: I would always respect you, I would never hurt you, and added: I like a bit of tantric sex. Id like to explore that. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) issued guidance to lawyers at the start of the year classifying such deals as an offence under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, carrying a seven-year jail sentence. But lawyers and MPs say the guidance does not go far enough and are calling for the creation of a specific offence making the offer of a room in return for sexual favours a crime in its own right. Rayleigh, Essex: Electrician Tony Crossley, far left, a father-of-two, was looking for females only to lodge at his Essex home in return for fun. He told our reporter: Fun is spending a couple of nights with me. Im not going to tie you up or anything like that. The one thing I love is oral sex' Peter Kyle, Labour MP for Hove, has been campaigning to end sex-for-rent deals and accused Craigslist of acting like pimps. He said: The way the law stands at the moment, if you are a victim of sex-for-rent you have to prove you have been forced to become a prostitute in order to get a successful conviction. Craigslist have been acting like pimps by profiting from sexual exploitation. I do not see Craigslist accepting any responsibility for the exploitation of young people they are facilitating. I want sex for rent to become a specific named offence so we can start locking people up. Jennie Bibbings, campaign manager at Shelter Cymru, said: Its horrific that young women and men are having to choose between being homeless or having sex with a creepy bloke. When approached to comment on his advert, Mr Crossley said: Nothing happened so why is it illegal? Theres loads of ads on there like that. It was a room to help people out, a favour for a favour, like cleaning and keeping the place tidy. Mr Bird said he didnt know such activity was illegal and added: Ive got nothing to say to you. Mr Luck declined to comment. Craigslist failed to respond to calls. A Ministry of Justice spokesman said: Offering accommodation in return for sex is illegal. Markus Anderson, of Peterborough, Ontario, first met Meghan in Toronto in 2011 when he was working for Soho House He has been described as the second most important man in Meghan Markles life after Prince Harry. Debonair, charming and with impeccable contacts, Markus Anderson is so close to the Duchess of Sussex that she refers to him as uncle to her beloved dogs. He was by Meghans side at her first public appearance with Harry at the Invictus Games in 2017; he was her bouncer as the global media thronged outside a New York hotel when she hosted her 350,000 baby shower; and in a website post to him she once wrote: What would I do without you, my loving, supportive, and endlessly fun friend I love you SO much. So just who is this 41-year-old Canadian who has become Meghans fixer and keeper of her secrets, and how has he managed to cement himself into such a prominent position in the Royal Family? Anderson comes from Peterborough, Ontario, a town 90 miles north-east of Toronto. At 18 he cut his small-town ties and headed for London, landing a job as a waiter at A-list members club Soho House. He quickly caught the eye of well-connected founder Nick Jones, and rose through the ranks in London, developing his own network of celebrity friends and fixers. Jones soon sent him back to Canada to set up Soho House in Toronto and in 2011 Anderson met Meghan when she arrived in there from Los Angeles to film the first series of her TV legal drama Suits. She and Anderson hit it off immediately, with Meghan writing on her now defunct website Tig: What would I do without you, my loving, supportive, and endlessly fun friend?? I know what I would be bored, and life would be infinitely less interesting. I love you SO much. Happiest of days for you now and always. Love you x. A Soho House source said: Long before Prince Harry came on the scene, Markus was introducing Meghan to all sorts of rich and powerful people. Anderson started as a waiter and quickly rose up through the ranks. He was asked to set up Soho House in Canada and used to arrange for the couple to meet secretly in private rooms at the club Anderson introduced Meghan to George and Amal Clooney and also to Jessica Mulroney daughter-in-law of ex-Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney. Jessica has become her closest female friend. Meghan would refer to Anderson as uncle to her two dogs Guy and Bogart and was photographed on holiday with him in Madrid. Back then, Meghan was still with first husband, film producer Trevor Engelson, and while Engelson remained in LA, Anderson squired her around Toronto, introducing her to local celebrities, including the man who is now Canadas Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau. Anderson was a shoulder to cry on as Meghans marriage fell apart in 2013. He would set her up on dates with eligible men drawn from his vast network of contacts. But it was after she met Prince Harry in 2016 that Anderson became an even more vital part of Meghans life. While Meghan and Harry are widely believed to have first met on a blind date in London set up by designer Misha Nonoo, it was in Canada and more specifically at Torontos Soho House that their love blossomed. Anderson arranged for the couple to meet secretly in private rooms at the club. He did the same in London and even arranged a romantic weekend away at Babington House, a picturesque hotel in Somerset run by Soho House. When Meghan made her first public appearance with Harry at the 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto, she chose to sit next to Anderson in the stands to watch events, and he was also photographed alongside Meghans mother Doria in a private viewing box. When Meghan made her first public appearance with Harry at the 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto, Anderson was photographed alongside Meghans mother Doria in a private viewing box And Meghan was with Anderson whose official title is now global consultant for Soho House when he celebrated his 40th birthday nearly two years ago. He was presented with Soho Houses first custom-made wine called Lady A, a fruity rose with a butterfly bottle designed by Damien Hirst. The artist is another long-time Anderson friend. In a press release, Soho House announced: So why Lady A? Its an old nickname Nick Jones used for Markus Anderson, one of our longest-standing team members who turns 40 this year. Markus has been a loyal member of the team for two decades and this rose is a fitting tribute. It added: The butterfly label is designed by Damien Hirst, a friend who knows Markus as a social butterfly. Since then, Anderson has become increasingly instrumental in helping to guide Meghan. During last months 350,000 baby shower, she chose to take no Palace PRs with her, instead relying on her friend to deal with the media massed outside Manhattans five-star hotel The Mark. However, his influence and methods have sometimes been criticised. Satirical magazine Private Eye reported that Anderson allowed Parisian macaron shop Laduree to promote the fact that they provided four 350 macaron towers for the baby shower. The event resulted in a fierce debate amid claims of over-indulgence and embarrassment for Meghan when the Laduree website boasted that the macaron towers would be something Marie Antoinette would be proud of. Private Eye also rather unflatteringly claimed that Anderson is known in the gilded corridors as the Sussex Fawcett a reference to Prince Charless former footman Michael Fawcett, who, it was once claimed, was so close to the future King that he used to squeeze toothpaste on to his toothbrush. Despite his closeness to Meghan, Anderson maintains his showbiz connections and is a very good friend of TV presenter Cat Deeley, who has forged a successful career in the United States. Deeley, 41, posted a picture on Instagram account last year showing her and Anderson snuggled up on an inflatable toy. It was captioned: If I could sail off into the sunset, on a Magic Sparkle Dust unicorn of joy, with anyone it would be you! He replied: When do we leave?!? But he remains Meghans staunchest promoter and confidant. Talking about Andersons role with Meghan, and his recommendation of Sara Latham as her PR, a source said: Marcus is great fun, very witty and amusing. He knows everyone. Hes utterly discreet. He and Sara are amazing people for Meghan to have on her team. Between them they know everyone in the world of politics and showbusiness on both sides of the Atlantic. If Meghan and Harry are looking to become a global brand with their philanthropy, they could not have chosen two better people to guide them. Another source said: Markus is someone who can meet anyone, be it royalty or a receptionist and he makes everyone feel special. He is brilliantly connected, utterly charming and very discreet. Ive tried talking to him about Meghan and all that happens is a big smile crosses his face. He is completely loyal to her a keeper of the secrets. Anderson, who revealed in an interview that his fashion preferences were Alexander McQueen, Yves Saint Laurent and Mulberry, declined to comment yesterday when approached by The Mail on Sunday. A Soho House spokesman said: He never comments. How Meghans Canadian fixer is responsible for her and Harry hiring their controversial new 140,000-a-year press chief Meghan Markles closest male friend helped pick her controversial new press chief, The Mail on Sunday can reveal. Canadian Markus Anderson, 41, personally recommended powerful political PR guru Sara Latham as Meghan and Harrys new 140,000-a-year communications chief. Mr Anderson a former waiter has known the Duchess of Sussex since before her relationship with Prince Harry. A global consultant for the Soho House private members clubs group, he arranged for Meghan and Harry to meet secretly at the companys properties in Toronto, London and Somerset during their courtship. Canadian Markus Anderson, 41, personally recommended powerful political PR guru Sara Latham as Meghan and Harrys new 140,000-a-year communications chief The appointment of Ms Latham, 48, has caused controversy as she has represented some of the worlds most prominent Left-leaning politicians, including Bill and Hillary Clinton, Tony Blair and the late Labour Minister Tessa Jowell. A former senior Palace official is also believed to have been influential in the appointment. Sara and Markus move in the same circles, said an insider. Sara is liberal like Meghan and has spent her life working with politicians on the Left. Markus is aware of how brilliant she is and helped pick her for Meghan because they share the same views. Sara is super-qualified, well-connected and very discreet. A source said: 'Sara is liberal like Meghan and has spent her life working with politicians on the Left. Markus is aware of how brilliant she is and helped pick her for Meghan because they share the same views' Ms Latham worked for PR agency Freuds from 2003 to 2005. She returned last August as a senior managing partner and is close to agency founder Matthew Freud. Mr Freud is a close friend of Soho House founder Nick Jones. A source said: Freuds regularly holds events at Soho House properties and Markus and Sara have been in each others orbit for some time and he is very aware of her reputation. Markus is very protective of Meghan. When Meghan started getting negative press, it was natural that he would want to find her the best representation. And Sara is the best. Ms Lathams CV is impressive, if unusually political, for a Royal press chief. Born in Virginia, she obtained a degree in fine arts before starting work in Bill Clintons White House. A source who knew her then describes her as a whip smart woman who rose quickly through the ranks because of her intelligence, loyalty and discretion. She later worked closely with Mr Blair during his 2005 General Election campaign and was a managing director of Philip Gould Associates, the PR firm set up by the late Lord Gould, one of Blairs closest advisors, before working for Blairs Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell. After returning to the US, she worked with the Clintons, running Mrs Clintons failed 2016 presidential bid. Ms Latham has made no secret of her loathing for Donald Trump, branding him misogynistic. Shes a political operative of the highest order, a Washington source added. Its an unusual move for her to enter the world of royalty but its a clear sign Meghan and Harry have plans on a global scale which will involve political manoeuvring behind the scenes which is Saras forte. She is devoted to liberal and philanthropic causes. Ms Latham is expected to move into her new offices at Buckingham Palace within days following last weeks announcement that William and Kate were splitting their offices from Meghan and Harrys. Claims last night revealed that the DUP could get another 1billion in funding for Northern Ireland in return for saving Theresa May's Brexit deal The DUP could get another 1 billion in funding for Northern Ireland in return for saving Theresa Mays Brexit deal from defeat, it was claimed last night. But No 10 is expected to spare the Unionists blushes by not revealing the new handouts until well after Brexit day. DUP leaders were this weekend locked in talks with Ministers making a last-ditch bid to win the partys support. The party insisted yesterday that we are not discussing cash but sources say any breakthrough will inevitably be tied to a new package of investments. Chancellor Philip Hammonds decision to join the negotiating team was seen as sign that Mrs May will have get the chequebook out to get the deal over the line. The DUP signed a 1 billion deal in 2017 to prop up the minority Tory government, including 300 million for health and 50 million for education. Party leader Arlene Foster said last week: Weve said want a deal, and were talking to them around that Unionists are also seeking further clarifications on the backstop preventing a physical border between Northern Ireland and the Republic, and how the UK could leave the arrangements, as well as assurances about Northern Irish trade with mainland Britain. Party leader Arlene Foster said last week: Weve said we want a deal, and were talking to them around that. But Labours John McDonnell warned Mrs May that offering the DUP another bung would risk destroying all confidence in our political system. The thought of owning a seven-bedroom property may seem like something that's out of your reach, but they can vary significantly in price. We've found 10 such properties that range in value, with some that do indeed cost several million pounds - and one reaching an eye-watering 30million. However, we've also included some properties for those with a smaller budget, with the cheapest being a relative bargain at just 100,000. We've picked 10 seven-bedroom houses for sale around the country, including this one in Weybridge, Surrey As with all properties, the prices tend to differ according to the location, with those in the south east having higher asking prices as this is where values tend to be higher. North London estate agent Jeremy Leaf explained: 'A seven-bedroom house in London's Oakhill Avneue in Hampstead will cost you 10.95million, while a Queen Anne mansion [with the same number of rooms] in South Yorkshire will cost you 1.2million.' However, Mr Leaf added: 'There are small signs that the north-south divide is shrinking a little following overheating prices, lack of affordability and stamp duty changes since the recession. The gap will be reduced further if HS2 goes ahead and the 'northern powerhouse' becomes a reality.' We've picked 10 seven-bedroom houses for sale around the country, including ones in West Sussex and West Yorkshire. Can you guess how much each one costs? Try our quiz below and put your property-price knowledge to the test by finding out if you can tell which of these seven-bedroom homes are the most expensive. If you unable to see the quiz in the MailOnline app or in Facebook Instant Articles please click on this link to view it. Mobile phone chip supplier Qualcomm Inc on Friday won a legal victory against iPhone maker Apple Inc, with a jury in federal court in San Diego finding that Apple owes Qualcomm about $31 million for infringing three of its patents. Qualcomm last year sued Apple alleging it had violated patents related to helping mobile phones get better battery life. During an eight-day trial, Qualcomm asked the jury to award it unpaid patent royalties of up to $1.41 per iPhone that violated the patents. The $31 million penalty is small change for Apple, the second most valuable U.S. company after Microsoft Corp, with a market value of $866 billion and annual revenue totaling hundreds of billions of dollars. Mobile phone chip supplier Qualcomm Inc on Friday won a legal victory against iPhone maker Apple Inc, with a jury in federal court in San Diego finding that Apple owes Qualcomm about $31 million for infringing three of its patents But the setting of a per-phone royalty rate for Qualcomm's technology gives the chip supplier a fresh line of attack in its two-year old legal battle with Apple. The biggest case, filed by Apple in early 2017, begins in April. Apple has sought to dismantle what it calls Qualcomm's illegal business model of both licensing patents and selling chips to phone makers. Qualcomm has accused Apple of using its technology without paying. 'The technologies invented by Qualcomm and others are what made it possible for Apple to enter the market and become so successful so quickly,' Don Rosenberg, Qualcomm's general counsel, said in a statement. 'We are gratified that courts all over the world are rejecting Apple's strategy of refusing to pay for the use of our IP.' In a statement, Apple said it was disappointed with the outcome. 'Qualcomm's ongoing campaign of patent infringement claims is nothing more than an attempt to distract from the larger issues they face with investigations into their business practices in U.S. federal court, and around the world,' Apple said. It declined to comment on whether it would appeal. In other cases against Apple, Qualcomm has won sales bans on iPhones in Germany and China, though the Chinese ban has not been enforced and Apple has taken moves it believes allow it to resume sales in Germany. Qualcomm also suffered a setback with U.S. trade regulators who found that some iPhones infringed one of the San Diego-based company's patents but declined to bar their importation into the United States, citing the damage such a move would inflict on rival Intel Corp. The verdict on Friday could come into play in the trial in April because it puts a per-phone dollar figure on some of Qualcomm's intellectual property. Qualcomm's patent licensing model relies on charging phone makers a cut of the selling price of the phone, a practice Apple has alleged is unfair and illegal. Qualcomm last year sued Apple alleging it had violated patents related to helping mobile phones get better battery life. During an eight-day trial, Qualcomm asked the jury to award it unpaid patent royalties of up to $1.41 per iPhone that violated the patents During an earlier trial between Qualcomm and the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, Apple executives outlined their company's extensive negotiations to reduce those license fees to $7.50 per phone for Qualcomm's patents. The San Diego jury valued just three of Qualcomm's patents in the company's portfolio at $1.41, a figure that the chip supplier believes bolsters its contention that its licensing practices are fair. 'The three patents found to be infringed in this case represent just a small fraction of Qualcomm's valuable portfolio of tens of thousands of patents,' Rosenberg said in a statement. Gaston Kroub, a patent lawyer in New York not involved in the case, said the verdict was clearly a win for Qualcomm. But it does not say much about the value of Qualcomm's entire patent portfolio and was unlikely to spark settlements discussions, he said. 'Apple is very skilled at handling appeals and taking a longer-term view. This isn't something that will bring Apple to the table with any sense of urgency,' Kroub said. Advertisement Most people make a mad dash for food and drink before a flight, taking their purchases on board. They do so because airline food is often dismissed as bland and expensive. But is it? We sent Tamara Hinson to find out... Investigation: Tamara Hinson compared four different airlines and four airports around the UK THE AIRLINES Out of the airlines we compared, EasyJet and British Airways came joint top for service, price and variety of food and drink on board. While Ryanair came bottom of the table due to its 'chaotic' service, which included cabin crew forgetting passengers' orders. Norwegian scored one point higher than Ryanair - there were only noodles and a chicken sandwich available and the tea (costing 2.70) was cold. EasyJet and British Airways came joint top for service, price and variety of food and drink on board THE AIRPORTS When it came to the airports, we were impressed with Edinburgh Airport due to its 'great value and good mix of outlets'. At the other end of the spectrum was Heathrow Terminal 5, which lacked any options for those travelling on a budget. A full English breakfast at Pilots Bar and Kitchen costs 12.95 - the most expensive we sampled. Similarly, the 'rubbery steak and eggs' at Jamie's Italian at Gatwick North airport was named worst value breakfast at 10.95. Kady McDermott branded her bitter on Twitter after she celebrated the former Love Island star and her ex-boyfriend Myles Bartlett quitting TOWIE. But Courtney Green couldnt care less what her ex and his new girlfriend think of her, insisting she has well and truly moved on with her new boyfriend and is back to her old bubbly self without Myles and Kady lurking on set. Joined by Chloe Meadows, Clelia Theodorou, Liam Gatsby and Shelby Tribble, the cast also discussed the refreshing change the major TOWIE cull has brought about due to the likes of Amber Turner and Yazmin Oukhellou leaving the show. Myles who? TOWIE's Courtney Green couldnt care less what her ex and his new girlfriend Kady McDermott think of her, insisting she feels liberated without them on the show Speaking exclusively to MailOnline ahead of the new series' debut on Sunday night, the petite brunette said she felt liberated, explaining: Its completely different. I feel like I can be myself. I dont have to constantly think about him, which was horrible. Its so nice for me to be in a series where Im not going to have drama with an ex-boyfriend. I completely lost myself when I was with him, I feel like people can see me for me, Ive got my personality back. The down-to-earth star dismissed Kady calling her bitter, insisting its just a throwaway jibe. Anything I say, theyll say Im bitter, she scoffed. Im not, this is a boy who cheated on me multiple times and humiliated me on national television. I have every right to say what I want to say. Gone: The down-to-earth star dismissed Kady (pictured with Myles) calling her bitter, insisting its just a throwaway jibe and she has a right to an opinion Viewers will remember Myles emotionally manipulating Courtney and yelling abuse at her in the street in one particularly shocking scene. The incident in question saw the businessman brand her a 'dirty little s**g' and a 'dirty dog' in a shocking street fight, which sparked an important debate about the normalisation of domestic abuse. Good riddance, her ever-loyal BFF Chloe Meadows chimed in, as they revealed theyre focusing on the future. Its so nice to put that behind me, Im so done with it. It was abnormal to have to work with an ex-boyfriend, Courtney added. The girls are adamant fans wont be seeing their new boyfriends on the show, with Clelia and Chloe M also determined to keep their relationships away from the drama. 'Good riddance': Viewers will remember Myles emotionally manipulating Courtney and in one shocking scene calling her a 'dirty little s**g' and a 'dirty dog' in a shocking street fight 'Im totally, utterly in love with someone else': Courtney has a new boyfriend of five months, Callum (pictured), but insists he won't ever appear on the show with her Courtney revealed that even though new man Callum, who she has been with for five months, could be The One, she is determined to do things differently this time. Ive moved on. Im totally, utterly in love with someone else!, she said. When was in Thailand, I actually wished my boyfriend was on the show because It would have been so nice, but then I think of all the drama that comes with it, its not worth it. Clelia reasoned: Ive never had a relationship on the show, when I see these girls it scares me so much. I have the best relationship off the show, I couldnt fault him, so I wouldnt want anything to jeopardise that. Chloe said: Its really nice to have a boyfriend off the show so you can go home and rant to them if filmings been hard, its nice to have someone whos completely separate. Staying out of the limelight: Chloe said, its nice to have someone whos completely separate I feel like I needed to stay with my ex because of the show, its not a nice headspace to be in. Shelby who is forced to film with former flames Pete Wicks and Sam Mucklow agreed: You have to put your whole life onto it, through bad times and good. Thats hard, it takes a lot. Its horrible. As for Gatsby, there might also be romance on the horizon. The lovable star is looking for a woman to impress with a helicopter ride on the first date, and has set his sights on an older lady. He teased: I havent met the new girls yet. They are pretty fit, but they are quite young. Apparently there is quite a fit older lady coming on she is a bit of a MILF.' There are rumours Dan Edgar has taken a shine to new girl Chloe Ross, and Gatsby coyly confirmed they had got on well. Sizzling: Clelia looked sensational during the cast trip to Thailand, where the latest season has been filmed No drama! The girls are determined to stay away from the drama Here come the boys! Liam Gatsby Blackwell, Tommy Mallet, Dan Edgar, Sam Mucklow and James Diags Bennewith (left-right) will all hit screens for the Thailand special Kady and Myles leaving the show was part of a mass cull, with a host of series regulars departing and new blood being introduced, including veteran TOWIE star Chloe Sims younger sister Demi. Some faces will be missed more than other, however, and everyone was in agreement that Amber Turner taking some time out was a shame but necessary. Ambers on/off romance with Dan Edgar been a focal point of TOWIE for the last few series, but she was reportedly told she wasnt coming back for the new series - despite producers being extremely sympathetic to her romantic woes. Clelia clashed with the glamorous blonde when she first came onto the Essex scene, but insisted they had patched things up. She said: I was kind of gutted when Amber didnt come back because we have actually sorted things out. Hitting out: Me and Amber are a lot more similar than what I thought, there was obviously a reason why we clashed so much, Dans obviously got a type personality wise' Me and Amber are a lot more similar than what I thought, there was obviously a reason why we clashed so much, Dans obviously got a type personality wise. I do like Amber, I feel for her. Shes going through a lot with him. She deserves better. Courtney agreed: She needs to focus on what she wants because I think she was so lost in her relationship with Dan, she just loved him so much. 'Sometimes its good to take a step back and concentrate on yourself. It seems that fiery-tempered couple Yaz and Lockie leaving is less of a loss, however, following bust-ups with the girls and each other (many, many times). Chloe diplomatically said: I think they needed time away. They needed to go and work on their happiness and stuff, thats what most important. None of us were that close to them. TOWIE returns to ITVBe for TOWIE Thailand at 9pm March 17. Shirley Ballas has recalled the heartbreak of losing her brother to suicide in a touching film on her reason for taking part in the Comic Relief Mount Kilimanjaro trek. The Strictly Come Dancing judge, 58, said she believes her brother David would 'still be here' if he'd had somebody to go to as he battled depression. Speaking to Paul, who turned back from taking his own life with the help of Comic Relief-funded charity Calm, she said: 'My brother took his own life. You know, he was a young man, 44.' Scroll down for video Close to her heart: Shirley Ballas has recalled the heartbreak of losing her brother to suicide in a touching film on her reason for taking part in the Comic Relief Mount Kilimanjaro trek She added: 'His partner found him, no note, no letter, no goodbye. I can only imagine 16 years ago, if my brother would have had somewhere to go, someone to talk to, someone to share his feelings... I truly believe in my heart, today, he would still be here.' In footage aired earlier in the week, she added: 'He was like my brother, my father, my best friend and he was lonely, he felt low. He said like he'd got into a dark hole, he couldnt get out of. 'I'd call him on the phone and tell him, "Come on Dave, you're going to be fine," because I was uneducated so thats why in some ways I blame myself.' Shirley's brother David took his own life in December 2003, aged just 44, after a battle with depression. Heartbreaking: The Strictly Come Dancing judge, 58, said she believes her brother David would 'still be here' if he'd had somebody to go to as he battled depression The ballroom dancer opened up about the loss in a special film on male suicide prevention broadcast during Kilimanjaro: The Bigger Red Nose Climb. In scenes aired earlier this week, Shirley told the camera as she prepared to sleep on the first night of the climb: 'I think my brother would be proud of him, I miss him so I'm doing it got him. If it means sleeping in a tent and being disorganised for a week I'm sure I can do it.' As the nine celebrities reached their first camp on day one, Shirley was overcome at the prospect of spending her first ever night in a tent. Heartbreak: In scenes aired earlier this week as she climbed the Tanzanian mountain, she said: 'My brother took his own life, his partner found him. There was no note, no goodbye, 16 years ago.' Struggle: Shirley's brother David took his own life in December 2003, aged just 44, after a battle with depression 'I'm 58 and I've never been out in the woods or even done outdoor activities,' she explained. 'I suffer from OCD, I like showering all the time. I'm used to bathing three or four times a day. The prospect of having to wash all your bits and bobs with a wet wipe is daunting,' she added before having to turn away from the camera with tears in her eyes. Luckily, BBC Breakfast presenter Dan Walker was on hand to cheer the Strictly star up. He said: 'Why don't you harness Shirley Ballas three times world champion?' The charity trek followed nine celebrities, including Dan, Love Island star Dani Dyer and politician Ed Balls, as they powered through high altitudes and sub-zero temperatures on the mountain. If you have been affected by the issues raised, you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website. Teen Mom OG star Leah Messer is asking for prayers for her daughter Adalynn Faith, after the six year old was hospitalized on Thursday. 'Even though shes sick she was making everyone laugh in the ER. WHAT. A. DAY. Keep our girl in your prayers!,' Messer, 26, wrote on Instagram. A rep for Messer confirmed to People that Adalynn was suffering from an infection and was being treated with antibiotics and monitored closely, as her condition has improved. Asking for prayers: Leah Messer asks fans to pray for her six year old daughter Adalynn as she's hospitalized for an infection Young Adalynn had a big smile on her face in one photo, wearing a purple hospital gown with her hospital bracelet seen on her left wrist. She was also seen being swaddled and wrapped into a white blanket while laying in her hospital bed. Messer also took to her Instagram story to explain that, 'Underneath her ears swollen, like all of this right here,' while caressing the side of Adalynn's neck near her glands. 'It hurts her.' Swaddled: She was also seen being swaddled and wrapped into a white blanket while laying in her hospital bed Messer's ex-husband and Adalynn's father Jeremy Calvert was also at the hospital, sharing a photo of him hugging his daughter in the hospital bed. 'Hospital with this little one all day, I hope my baby girl starts feeling better...,' Calvert, 30, said, adding the hashtags #daddysgirl #mybabygirl and #addie. Calvert drove in from out of town to meet his ex-wife and their daughter in the emergency room. Sick daughter: Messer also took to her Instagram story to explain that, 'Underneath her ears swollen, like all of this right here,' while caressing the side of Adalynn's neck near her glands. 'It hurts her' Messer and Calvert were married in 2012, when Messer was just 20 years old, and Calvert was 24. The couple separated in 2015, when Calvert's work started taking him further away from home, with Calvert filing for divorce at the end of Teen Mom OG Season 6. Messer is also mother to nine-year-old twins Aleeah Grace and Aliannah Hope with her first husband, Corey Simms. Daddy's girl: Messer's ex-husband and Adalynn's father Jeremy Calvert was also at the hospital, sharing a photo of him hugging his daughter in the hospital bed Messer made headlines on Thursday when she split with 40 year old Jason Jordan for the second time. They first split in October 2018, after dating for six months, but Messer reportedly broke up with her after her manager, 'basically told her that Jason was no good and that she needed to dump him.' However, Messer still wanted to be with him and they got back together, until Messer, 'had become even more controlling of Leah and she realized it for herself,' according to The Ashley's Reality Roundup. Ita Buttrose has remained a constant support to nephew Richard Buttrose, following his release from prison in 2017. Richard, whose late father Julian is Ita's brother, served nine years of a 12-year sentence for drug supply. The pair attended Barbie's 60th Birthday celebrations in Sydney last Friday, where the media doyenne was immortalised as a Barbie doll. 'I'm very proud of all her accomplishments': Ita Buttrose (left), 77, has remained a constant support to nephew Richard Buttrose (right), 46, after his release from prison in 2017 for drug supply. Ita is pictured in July 2018, and Richard in 2009 Richard, 46, attended the event at Sydney's Bondi Beach with Ita, 77, who was honoured by toy manufacturer Mattel. The 'Ita' Barbie doll is clad in a red shirt and jacket, black skirt, heels, a handbag and Ita's trademark blonde bob. Speaking to The Daily Telegraph's Confidential at the event, Richard said that he's 'very proud' of all Ita has managed to achieve in her career. Fun times: The pair attended Barbie's 60th Birthday celebrations in Sydney last Friday, where media doyenne Ita (pictured) was immortalised as a Barbie doll 'On top of all her other accomplishments, I was very proud of my aunt when she was named chairman of the ABC. But bigger than that achievement, she's been immortalised as a Barbie doll,' Richard said. Richard and Ita appear to have remained close following his release from prison in 2017. Richard served nine years of a 12-year-sentence, after he was caught with two six kilogram bags of cocaine and more than Australian $1.3 million in cash. Caught: Richard served nine years of a 12-year-sentence, after he was caught with two six kilogram bags of cocaine Ita sat front row at Richard's court appearance, following his high-profile arrest in 2009. Richard, a former drug-dealer to Sydney's elite, walked free from Berrima Correctional Centre in late 2017. As he walked through the prison gates shortly before 9am, Richard said he felt 'fantastic' and his first stop as a free man would be at the famous Bondi Beach in Sydney. Evidence: Richard was also caught with more than $1.3 million Australian dollars in cash 'I made a big mistake a long time ago,' he said at the time, as he walked to a waiting black Mercedes hire car, according to The Daily Telegraph. 'I have done my time. I did the best to make the most of my time, I did two university degrees and now I am out a better person.' Richard left prison with a degree in both accounting and a Master's in business administration. Coronation Street star Gareth Berliner has been admitted to hospital with sepsis. The actor, who plays Macca Hibbs in the ITV soap, shared the news with his 2,300 fans on Instagram in the early hours of Friday morning. Gareth, who suffers from Crohn's Disease, shared a snap of himself in a hospital bed as he updated his followers. Poorly: Coronation Street star Gareth Berliner was admitted to hospital in the early hours of Friday morning with sepsis He captioned it with: 'Well I was brought into hospital by ambulance about 1a.m owing to some amount of sepsis with terrible Rygors while hooked up and infusing Saline. 'It wasn't even pumping that fast. Vomiting and upset gut and a temp of 39.' He continued: 'My levels of neauraphil are below 1, .98 to be precise and 36 hours earlier they had been at 9. '3 is the bottom of that scale and I'm on .98 . It means my already weakened immune system is even weaker.so I've been put in isolation...in other words I have a room to myself.. I'm happy with that.' Recovery: The actor, who plays Macca Hibbs in the ITV soap, shared the news with his 2,300 fans on Instagram in the early hours of Friday morning Gareth, who has battled Crohn's Disease for 30 years, has previously opened up about having to take a nutritional feed into his blood via a tube in his chest. Speaking to The Mirror, he said: 'Having sepsis of any kind is part and parcel of living with Total Parenteral Nutrition and just one of those things that happens from time to time. Ive had TPN as a result of short gut syndrome for 19 years. 'I'm OK today just stuck in here and they're investigating what caused the issue. I don't have a temperature anymore and am now being infused with some strong antibiotics to fight whatever bug is messing with my immune system. I am dressed and mobile as I see no reason to gets into PJ's and give up.' He added: 'I'm looking forward to finding the source of the problem and getting back to work as a stand-up and as an actor. Those jokes won't tell themselves.' Fans of the star, who is also a stand-up comedian, rushed to the comments section to send him well wishes. Support: Fans of the star, who is also a stand-up comedian, rushed to the comments section to send him well wishes 'Never stop until your last breath were all here fighting with you brother keep at it,' said one person. While another shared: 'Sending loads of love and virtual strength, you lovely man.' With a third person adding: 'Oh mate, all the love in the world heading your way. Get better soon pal x' Gareth has played bad boy Macca in the soap since 2014, with his last appearance being in February this year. MailOnline has contacted ITV for comment. William H. Macy opened up about despising liars and dishonesty, while professing his admiration for his wife, Felicity Huffman, during an interview last month. Some would say those words have new meaning in light of his wife's recent arrest in connection to the college bribery scandal. While talking with Men's Journal, the Shameless star denounced lying two times during the conversation-- first when asked about 'the best advice he ever received.' Not fond of liars: William H. Macy opened up about despising liars and dishonesty during an interview with Men's Journal last month; (pictured March) 'Never lie. Its the cheapest way to go. Lies cost you a lot, and theyre never worth what they cost,' Macy said. He again referenced his disgust of liars when he was asked: 'What human qualities do you most despise? 'Dishonesty. Self-delusion. Lack of character,' he fired back, and then used the President of the United States as an example. 'President Trump is sort of my touchstone for the qualities I do not like.' Before the firestorm: Macy's rant about liars and his praise of his wife comes just weeks before she was arrested in connection to the college bribery scandal; the couple are pictured at the Golden Globes in January 2019 When it came to people Macy admires the most, he picked his wife of 21-years, by singling out her skills as a mother and as an actor. 'I married very, very well,' he gushed. 'Its great fun for me to watch Felicity. I love the way she mothers our daughters. And her careerI find myself getting lazy and slowing down and losing my drive. My wife is doubling down.' Huffman, along with actress Lori Loughlin and her husband, are among 50 people who have been accused of paying bribes and cheating to help get their children into America's top colleges. The Desperate Housewives star is alleged to have paid $15,000 to a purported charitable contribution in order to have her eldest daughter's SAT scores increased. Big words: 'Never lie. Its the cheapest way to go. Lies cost you a lot, and theyre never worth what they cost,' Macy said; the couple are pictured in October 2018 Investigators also claim she made arrangements to pursue the scheme for a second time but decided against it. Huffman has been charged with conspiracy to commit mail fraud. After posting $250,000 bail, a magistrate judge restricted her travel to the continental US and ordered her to surrender her passport to the court. She is next expected in appear in a Boston court March 29 for a preliminary hearing. In the wake of the arrest, Huffman deleted her social media accounts, and pulled down her parenting website, What The Flicka. Huffman and Macy have been married since September 1997, and share daughters Sofia, 18, and Georgia, 17. Kim Kardashian has put a call out to her fans. The 38-year-old reality TV star took to Twitter on Friday to plead for someone to help find her an apartment for Matthew Charles, a reformed criminal who had previously been imprisoned on a nonviolent drug charge. The socialite's tweet began, 'Matthew Charles's [sic] lease application was rejected again [because] of his criminal record (even [with] me paying his rent in advance).' Help: Kim Kardashian, 38, took to Twitter on Friday to plead for someone to help find her an apartment for Matthew Charles, a reformed criminal Matthew Charles (pictured) was released from prison in January this year thanks to the First Step Act The Keeping Up With The Kardashians star continued, 'If there are any landlords [with] a 2 bedroom in Nashville willing to give Mr Charles a 2nd chance, contact mocapt615@gmail.com'. 'Serious inquiries only, thank you [PRAYER HANDS EMOJI]' she concluded. Charles was released from prison in January this year thanks to the First Step Act, criminal justice reform legislation which Kim herself helped convince President Donald Trump to enact. According to the Nashville Tennessean, 'the law allows judges to retroactively apply the drug sentencing reforms of the Fair Sentencing Act.' According to the publication, the makeup mogul 'pledged Monday to pay [Charles'] rent for the next five years'. 2018: Charles was released from prison in January this year thanks to the First Step Act, criminal justice reform legislation which Kim herself helped convince President Donald Trump to enact Kim is clearly passionate about criminal justice and made headlines after her campaign to free Alice Marie Johnson proved successful in June of last year. The daughter of Kris Jenner successfully campaigned for Alice to be pardoned by President Donald Trump after she spent 21 years in prison for a non-violent drug offence. Kim previously revealed she is committed to working on other similar cases and helping many more people, sharing: 'It's a longer-term mission for me. I never started out thinking I was being political. 'I just thought I was helping people and I knew that I had the opportunity or the resources, so I used them and, you know, it worked out really well for Alice. I definitely saw a lot of compassion from the White House with her and I really do believe it's just the beginning,' she admitted. She famously played the sidekick Willow as a lesbian on Buffy The Vampire Slayer. Alyson Hannigan was on set Friday in Vancouver, Canada, while filming her newest feature, Dodie & Cheryl Get Hitched. The 44-year-old Buffy star returns to playing an LGBTQ character for the new movie, in which she'll play a lesbian woman contemplating tying the knot. Period look: Alyson Hannigan, 44, was on set Friday in Vancouver, Canada, while filming her newest feature, Dodie & Cheryl Get Hitched The How I Met Your Mother actress was already in costume for the presumably period-set scene, which showed off her striking high-waisted olive and gray plaid pants. She wore a sleeveless beige blouse that left her exposed to the Canadian city's chilly climate. The fiery haired actress' costume was completed with a brown leather purse, a yellow and pink patterned scarf tied around her neck and a pair of large plastic-frame glasses. Inhabiting the role: The How I Met Your Mother actress was already in costume for the presumably period-set scene, which showed off her striking high-waisted olive and gray plaid pants In Dodie & Cheryl Get Hitched, Alyson stars as Cheryl opposite Mira Sorvino, 51, as Dodie. According to a 2015 crowdfunding request on IndieWire, the two leads are a lesbian couple living in a small town. After attending a shotgun marriage ceremony, Cheryl longs for more and proposes marriage to her lover. But as the date approaches, Dodie finds herself having second thoughts, and the hypocrisy of their previously supportive neighbors starts to weigh on them. The crowd funding request seems to suggest the film would have a contemporary setting, but Alyson's outfit and the cars in the background look like they're from the 1970s or early 1980s. Nostalgia trip: The American Pie star had another blast from the past in February when she reunited with most of her Buffy The Vampire Slayer co-stars for Wizard World Portland in Oregon; pictured with Nicholas Brendon The American Pie star had another blast from the past in February when she reunited with most of her Buffy The Vampire Slayer co-stars for Wizard World Portland in Oregon. The flame-haired beauty appeared with all the major faces with two huge exceptions. The series' star, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and her longtime love interest Angel, played by David Boreanaz, were both absent from the show. She was seen smiling ear-to-ear in an Instagram photo posted by Nicholas Brendon, who played Xander Harris on the horrorfantasy series. TV movie: Earlier in February, Alyson was seen at the premiere of the Kim Possible television movie The whole gang: The live-action feature was adapted from the popular Disney Channel series of the same name Earlier in February, Alyson was seen at the premiere of the Kim Possible television movie. The live-action feature was adapted from the popular Disney Channel series of the same name. The Penn & Teller: Fool Us host plays Dr. Ann Possible, a brain surgeon and the mother of teenage crime fighter Kim Possible. On Friday's episode of Don't Be Tardy, Kim Zolciak-Biermann has a health scare and is preparing to turn 40, while daughter Brielle purchases her own place. The show opens with Kim and husband Kroy, 33, on their way to the hospital, as Kim's not feeling well. The former Real Housewives of Atlanta star previously suffered a stroke, and was concerned over her feelings. A scare: The show opens with Kim Zolciak-Biermann, 40, and husband Kroy, 33, on their way to the hospital, as Kim's not feeling well Meanwhile, Brielle, 22, and Ariana, 17, went apartment hunting, as Brielle was preparing to move out. The girls were worried about how it would affect Kim. Brielle thinks it's going to break her 'little old lady heart.' The show transitioned back to Kim and Kroy. The mother-of-six was told by the doctor's that her blood count was low. She had low iron. Triggered: The former Real Housewives of Atlanta star previously suffered a stroke, and was concerned over her feelings On her own: Meanwhile, Brielle, 22, and Ariana, 17, went apartment hunting, as Brielle was preparing to move out Difficult time: The show transitioned back to Kim and Kroy. The mother-of-six was told by the doctor's that her blood count was low. She had low iron. She is seen in a flashback clip recovering from her stroke Kim revealed that she doesn't talk to her family, including her brother, which she hadn't talked to in 16 years. He also has the same blood issue as her. Kim was doing research on her health. She became concerned over getting older and said she was vain. But Kroy proved he was a loving husband and attempted to ease her nerves. He suggested having a party. They agreed on a casino theme. Family fallout: Kim revealed that she doesn't talk to her family, including her brother, which she hadn't talked to in 16 years. He also has the same blood issue as her Supportive spouse: Kim was doing research on her health. She became concerned over getting older and said she was vain. But Kroy proved he was a loving husband and attempted to ease her nerves Kim continued to talk about her brother, who she says lives in Connecticut. She noted that they became estranged, and her parents would paint an ugly picture about her to her brother, after she became famous. Her phone rings, and it's her brother. She invites him and his wife to her 40th birthday bash, and he said he can come. Backstory: Kim continued to talk about her brother, who she says lives in Connecticut. She noted that they became estranged, and her parents would paint an ugly picture about her to her brother, after she became famous Reunion: Her phone rings, and it's her brother. She invites him and his wife to her 40th birthday bash, and he said he can come Brielle nervously approaches Kroy to let him know that she has signed a lease for an apartment. She decided to tell Kroy first because mom Kim has heart issues, and she doesn't want to scare her. When Brielle told Kroy, he said that he was happy for her and congratulated her on her first place. It was nearly half the price at around 3500. Meanwhile, Kroy invited a party planner to their home. Kim decided on red and white flowers, slot machines and scratch poker. She agreed gamble for prizes instead of money, because money is illegal. Kim's excited that her brother is coming, so she wants everything to be perfect. The party is in two weeks. Celebration: Meanwhile, Kroy invited a party planner to their home. Kim decided on red and white flowers, slot machines and scratch poker She's excited: Kim's excited that her brother is coming, so she wants everything to be perfect. The party is in two weeks Nothing to worry about: Brielle nervously approaches Kroy to let him know that she has signed a lease for an apartment. When Brielle told Kroy, he said that he was happy for her and congratulated her on her first place. Finally, Brielle tells Kim that she's purchased a place. Kim freaks out that her daughter will be moving out. This is partly becomes she could always know when her daughter was coming home, now she won't know because her daughter won't be living there. The protective mom said that this was the day she's been dreading. Her heart was beating out of her chest. The reality vet is close to her daughter, and said that, 'for a long time it was me and Brielle against the world.' The then-single mom said that 'didn't have a support system,' and credits her daughter for where she is today. Emotional: Kim freaks out that her daughter will be moving out. This is partly becomes she could always know when her daughter was coming home, now she won't know because her daughter won't be living there She is said to have dumped her husband Dan Osborne after it was claimed he shared a kiss with Love Island's Alexandra Cane on a night out, something they have both denied. And Jacqueline Jossa, 26, shared a cryptic post as she pointed to her wedding ring on Instagram on Friday following the alleged cheating drama. In the snap, the EastEnders star strategically placed her hand over her heart and she pointed to her sparkling rock. Some-ring to tell us? Jacqueline Jossa pointed to her wedding ring in cryptic Instagram post on Friday after 'dumping Dan Osborne' amid Alexandra Cane kiss claims Using the Instagram filter, the EastEnders star added the word 'mood' to her snap as well as adding an arrow to draw attention to her wedding ring. Having had a difficult time of late, the mother-of-two treated herself to a pampering session when she applied a face mask in the comfort of her own company. Some-ring to show off: In the snap, the EastEnders star strategically placed her hand over her heart and she pointed to her rock On Thursday, the actress enjoyed some chill time with her children Ella and Mia as they watched Disney's Frozen in their living room. Jacqueline's post comes amid claims that she furiously dumped husband Dan after it was reported that he kissed Love Island star Alexandra on a night out. Sources told The Sun she kicked him out of the home they share with daughters Ella and Mia. They said: '[Jacqueline] feels embarrassed and very angry that he would put her through the stress and decided enough was enough so kicked him out. 'Dan is truly gutted that Jacqueline is saying it's over. He's really hopeful he will be able to talk her round once she calms down. He's really angry about it all and telling friends he will do whatever he can to save his marriage.' A rep for Dan Osborne told the site that he has just temporarily moved out to help his nan clean out her house. So sad: She is said to have dumped her husband Dan after reports made claims he shared a kiss with Love Island's Alexandra on a night out MailOnline contacted representatives for Jacqueline Jossa and Dan Osborne for comment at the time. Hours later, Dan also took to social media to vehemently deny claims he kissed Alexandra, saying in a video: 'There's a story going round, it's a load of rubbish! 'Yes I was out in Manchester, yes I was having a drink, yes I was having a little dance with friends. Pictured: Jacqueline shared a cryptic post as she pointed to her wedding ring on Instagram on Friday following the alleged kiss drama 'No I did not kiss absolutely anyone. Even though we both denied it, it's out there, all I can say is it's not true, I did not kiss anyone.' This latest development also comes amid reports that Alexandra's real estate boyfriend Adam Theobald has forgiven her for the alleged kissing. A source close to the couple told The Sun Online: They're still together. It hasn't affected their relationship at all. Claims: Dan and Alexandra had both attended the U S E App Launch and were pictured leaving in a car together, with friends, although there is no suggestion that anything further happened The Sun had claimed the pair were grinding and thrusting on one another as well as kissing on the dancefloor at Manchesters Neighbourhood bar on Thursday night. Dan and Alexandra had both attended the U S E App Launch and were pictured leaving in a car together, with friends, although there is no suggestion that anything further happened. Both stars spokespersons released a joint statement to MailOnline hours earlier, saying: 'Absolutely nothing happened with Alex. 'Dan has been friends with her for a while after working together. They all met up with friends and enjoyed a great night out like friends do.' Kim is flanked by her kids, Kendall and mom Kris at ex Kanye's concert in LA The reality star and her family led the stars attending her ex-husband Kanye 'Ye' West and Drake's charity show on Thursday. She was recently booted off Dancing With The Stars. But Cassandra Thorburn was clearly in high spirits as she enjoyed a Formula One event with some famous faces in Melbourne on Saturday. Taking to Instagram, Cass shared a cheeky picture of her with music icon Molly Meldrum and Dancing With The Stars dancer, Jeremy Garner. Scroll down for video 'He's just being funny, I'm not his type!' Cassandra Thorburn (right) shared a photo with a 'cheeky' Molly Meldrum (middle), 76, at an F1 event in Melbourne on Saturday. In the picture, Mollyappears to look down at Cassandra's toned legs while jokingly making a 'grabbing' motion with one of his hands. Cass is pictured with Dancing With The Stars dancer, Jeremy Garner (left) In the photograph, former Countdown host Molly, 76, appears to look down at Cassandra's toned legs while jokingly making a 'grabbing' motion with one of his hands. Cassandra, clad in a plunging floral frock, was clearly laughing off the prank as she nestled in close to her friend Molly. Cassandra, 47, captioned the photo: 'The living legend Molly Meldrum in all his cheeky glory wishing me a Happy Birthday.' Cassandra, clad in a plunging floral frock, was clearly laughing off the prank as she nestled in close to her friend Molly. Cassandra, 47, captioned the photo: 'The living legend Molly Meldrum in all his cheeky glory wishing me a Happy Birthday' The pair are clearly close, as the journalist later wrote: 'He's just being funny. I'm not his type. We all know that.' On Tuesday Cassandra, who is the ex wife of former Today show host Karl Stefanovic, announced she would be joining Studio 10 as a regular guest. 'I'll be working with Studio 10 on a more regular guest basis so that will be great,' the mother-of-three told Yahoo Lifestyle. 'It's great and opens the opinions of more experienced women, I guess, that are around my ilk,' the journalist added. Viewers will no doubt be very keen to see what Cassandra brings to the small screen, given her acrimonious split from Karl, 44. It's been a big week for Cass, who was booted from Dancing With the Stars on Monday, making her the third celebrity cut from the competition. Stage exit: Cass and partner Marco de Angelis (R) were booted from Dancing With the Stars on Monday, making her the third celebrity cut from the competition Shortly before the elimination on the show, Cass appeared to take a swipe at her former spouse. She thanked the public for their support 'after a troublesome couple of years', which was taken as a reference to her high-profile ex. Gold Logie winner Karl was unceremoniously kicked off Today in late 2018 after 14 years with the program. He is best known for his role as Jesse Pinkman in the iconic television drama Breaking Bad. And on Friday, Aaron Paul took a break from shooting the movie continuation of the hit series to attend the world premiere of his new thriller, The Parts You Lose, at the 2019 Sun Valley Festival in Sun Valley, Idaho. Making it a family affair, the 39-year old had his wife Lauren Parsekian, and their one-year old daughter Story Annabelle Paul, by his side. The heartland: Aaron Paul attended the 2019 Sun Valley Festival in Sun Valley, Idaho on Friday The actor made it a point to attend the festival, in part, because he was born and raised in Idaho. And with winter in full effect, the Paul family came dressed for the occasion. Aaron kept warm in black jeans, black long-sleeve shirt, plaid overcoat and black laced leather boots. For added flair, he rocked a retro newsboy beret hat, while sporting a mustache and full beard. Family man: The Breaking Bad star shared the spotlight with his wife Lauren Parsekian, and their one-year old daughter Story Annabelle Paul Where the heart is: The 39-year old actor appeared jovial to be back in his home state of Idaho Doting dad: Paul was all smiles when he held his one-year old daughter, Story Parsekian, 32, showed off her post baby body in blue skinny jeans, a fitted black shirt, black overcoat and black laced up winter boots. Their bundle of joy appeared to soak up the attention on the red carpet in a black ensemble and her blonde hair pulled up into a top bun. After posing for the cameras, Paul took the stage to hosted a screening of The Parts You Lose that co-stars Scoot McNairy, Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Danny Murphy. In the film, Paul plays a fugitive criminal who befriends a 10-year old deaf boy who is being bullied at school. After chatting about the new role and fielding questions from the audience, Paul was presented with the festival's Pioneer Award, which is given in recognition of an industry innovator whose work on-screen or behind the camera embodies the trailblazing spirit. Promo time: The actor chatted about his new role in the thriller, The Part You Lose Recognition: Paul also received the festival's Pioneer Award presented by Variety Honoree: The Pioneer Award is given in recognition of an industry innovator whose work on-screen or behind the camera embodies the trailblazing spirit Filming for the much-anticipated Breaking Bad movie began in New Mexico in February. For the most part, the storyline has been kept under wraps. It will reportedly follow Jesse Pinkman after the events of the series finale in 2013. Jesse was last seen driving off into the night after being kidnapped and forced under duress to make Meth for Todd (Jesse Plemons), his uncle Jack (Michael Bowen), and his gang of goons. Series creator Vince Gilligan is on board to write and direct the film, which has the working title of Greenbrier. She plays a fast talking housewife channeling heartbreak into stand-up comedy. And Rachel Brosnahan lit up the the PaleyFest opening night panel for Amazon's The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel on Friday in Hollywood. The 28-year-old actress had a unique look with her pleated tie-dye dress. Psychedelic look: Rachel Brosnahan, 28, lit up the the Marvelous Mrs. Maisel panel for PaleyFest's opening night on Friday The Louder Than Bombs actress' knee-length outfit provided a view of her toned gams. The colorful dress featured a black belt and black collar with large gold buttons. The dark haired beauty had her hair tied back in a pony tail, and matched it with some fun black nail polish and her black heels. Fit figure: The Louder Than Bombs actress' knee-length outfit provided a view of her toned gams Stylish outfit: The colorful dress featured a black belt and black collar with large gold buttons Meeting the masses: Rachel was leading the PaleyFest panel, organized by the Paley Center for Media, which puts on a series of TV panels that allow fans to hear from the stars of their favorite shows Rachel was leading the PaleyFest panel, organized by the Paley Center for Media. The organization puts on a popular series of TV panels at Hollywood's Dolby Theatre that allow fans to hear from the stars and creators of their favorite shows. The House Of Cards actress stars as Midge Maisel, who finds she has a talent for stand-up comedy after drunkenly taking to the stage and making the audience roar. She was joined by comic actress Alex Bornstein, who plays her manager. She's best known for her work off camera, as the voice of Lois Griffin on Family Guy. She wore a sheer black blouse with round frills on her shoulders and a pair of robin's egg blue trousers with a gold chain adorned with a metallic bee. New discovery: The House Of Cards actress stars as Midge Maisel, who finds she has a talent for stand-up comedy after drunkenly taking to the stage and making the audience roar Versatile voice: She was joined by comic actress Alex Bornstein, who plays her manager. She's best known for her work off camera, as the voice of Lois Griffin on Family Guy He's not part of the show, but comedian Patton Oswalt, 50, was on hand for the TV celebration. The A.P. Bio star was accompanied by his wife, actress Meredith Salenger, 49. The two married in late 2017, following the untimely death of his first wife, crime journalist Michelle McNamara, in 2016. Patton wore a simple gray suit with a purple tie, while Meredith wore a patchwork pink top and black skirt. Showing his support: He's not part of the show, but comedian Patton Oswalt, 50, was on hand for the TV celebration Loving couple: The A.P. Bio star was accompanied by his wife, actress Meredith Salenger, 49. The two married in late 2017, following the untimely death of his first wife, crime journalist Michelle McNamara, in 2016 Plays a cad: Michael Zegen, 40, plays Midge Maisel's estranged husband and her original inspiration to take to the stage. The actor went casual for the panel discussion, with a dark blue sweater an a pair of olive-colored trousers Michael Zegen, 40, plays Midge Maisel's estranged husband and her original inspiration to take to the stage. The actor went casual for the panel discussion, with a dark blue sweater an a pair of olive-colored trousers. Tony Shaloub, 65, arrived in a tasteful burgundy suit. The Monk star plays Midge's father on the Amazon series. TV icon: Tony Shaloub, 65, arrived in a tasteful burgundy suit. The Monk star plays Midge's father on the Amazon series Winning team: Also on the panel was Kevin Pollak. The impressionist mixed things up with a gray plaid blazer and a pair of royal blue trousers. Crimes And Misdemeanors actress Caroline Aaron stood out with a striking wide pinstriped suit and a low-cut black top Also on the panel was comedian Kevin Pollak, who plays Midge's father-in-law. The noted impressionist mixed things up with a gray plaid blazer and a pair of royal blue trousers. Crimes And Misdemeanors actress Caroline Aaron stood out with a striking wide pinstriped suit and a low-cut black top. Marin Hinkle injected some color into the proceeding with a gorgeous multi-colored dress straight out of the 1960s. Series creator Amy Sherman-Palladino made a splash with one of her trademark top hats, mixed with a black blazer and black dress. Her husband, Daniel Palladino, wore a tan blazer with black jeans and a black shirt. Pretty in pink: Marin Hinkle injected some color into the proceeding with a gorgeous multi-colored dress straight out of the 1960s They're the most down-to-earth couple in Hollywood. And Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky certainly lived up to their reputation this week by taking a no-fills trip to Western Australia with friends and family. The pair left the Tinseltown glamour behind to rough it in tents with little water and no wifi or phone signal. 'We feel so lucky to have been able to go on an incredible trip to WA': Elsa Pataky (L) and Chris Hemsworth (R) shared photos from their holiday to Western Australia this week Elsa documented the trip on Instagram, sharing a string of photos - including a cute selfie with Chris. 'We feel so lucky to have been able to go on an incredible trip to WA (Western Australia), a beautiful place with amazing people,' she wrote. 'We slept in tents, had little water, and no phone signal or wifi,' she continued. Nature: The pair left the Tinseltown glamour behind to rough it in tents (pictured) with little water and NO wifi or phone signal Bikini babe: The 42-year-old Spanish actress (L) showed off her incredible physique in a red polka-dot bikini while posing with a friend 'We were able to connect with our kids, partners and friends in deeper, different ways. Without the stress of routine, without agendas, plans or luxuries. Just beaches, shells, surf and games around the camp fire. I feel very fortunate.' Photos showed a bikini-clad Elsa frolicking along the beach with her friends. Other images showed the couple's children eating breakfast by the beach and playing in a rock pool. Family: Other images showed the couple's children eating breakfast by the beach Picturesque: Elsa played with one of her children in a rock pool by the sea Chris and Elsa have been spending time on Rottnest Island. The couple swapped the bright lights of Hollywood for a more relaxed life in Byron Bay, on Australia's east coast, five years ago. The Hollywood couple have been married for nine years, and have called Byron Bay home since 2014. 'I feel very fortunate': Photos showed a bikini-clad Elsa (L) frolicking along the beach with her friends ' Just beaches, shells, surf and games around the camp fire,' wrote Elsa. ' I feel very fortunate' Elsa, who previously lived in Los Angeles with her husband, recently said she enjoys the more laid-back lifestyle of Australia. 'We did the move three years ago and I'm so happy with it,' she revealed to Women's Health magazine in April 2017. 'In Byron we just feel like locals. People really respect us... and it's what I always dreamed of giving to my kids.' Every year, his experimental culinary challenges leave MasterChef contestants completely baffled. And on Friday, Heston Blumenthal credited the Channel Ten reality cooking show for igniting a 'food explosion' in Australia. 'I've seen a food explosion happen (in Australia) so quickly and so impressively, than any country in the world,' the British chef told The Herald Sun. 'It's played a huge role!' British chef Heston Blumenthal (pictured) credits Masterchef for igniting a 'food explosion' in Australia He added: 'And I think MasterChef had a big role to play with that.' Heston, 52, also claimed the foodie trend in this country is down to Australia's 'have a go' attitude. 'I think one of the areas that should be celebrated, and held on to, in Australian culture, is the fact people are prepared to have a go. More than any other country I've seen, they want to have a go, and that should be cherished.' 'There's nowhere to hide!' Blumenthal has admitted the Channel 10 reality cooking show is 'brutal' on aspiring chefs. Pictured Masterchef stars (left to right) Gary Mehigan, Matt Preston and George Calombaris In the past, the Michelin-starred chef has bamboozled MasterChef contestants with such creations as his unusual levitating meringue dessert, called Counting Sheep. And last year, Blumenthal has admitted the Channel 10 reality cooking show is 'brutal' on aspiring chefs. Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald in November, he said: 'The show is brutal. [Contestants] get criticised if they mess up, there's nowhere to hide.' Top of his game: In the past, the Michelin starred chef has bamboozled MasterChef contestants with such creations as his unusual levitating meringue dessert called Counting Sheep How does he do it? In the past, the Michelin-starred chef has bamboozled MasterChef contestants with such creations as his unusual levitating meringue dessert, called Counting Sheep 'I've not in any way helped its lack of brutality,' he said about his own culinary impact in pressure tests in MasterChef. 'But I can't imagine anyone coming off there thinking they're worse off for going on. They get an insight that I think is more valuable than winning the lottery,' he added. Channel 10 has renewed MasterChef Australia for season 11 and applications for the show are open. They are both mothers to three children. But on Friday, Reese Witherspoon, 42, laughed off a fake headline, that suggested that she and Jennifer Garner, 46, have baby news. The Legally Blonde star took to social media to show of the magazine cover, and asked her fellow actress pal an important question. 'Imaginary babies': On Friday, Reese Witherspoon, 42, laughed off a fake headline, that suggested that she and Jennifer Garner, 46, have baby news 'Hey @jennifer.garner! Can we raise our imaginary babies together?' she said. The magazine cover featured a side-by-side of the two, with the title; 'Jen & Reese Baby Bombshells. Shock & Joy for the Hollywood BFFS.' Several of the Sweet Home Alabama star's Tinseltown pals weighed in on the post. Sense of humor: Reese is seen in LA last month Gwyneth Paltrow shared laughing emojis, while Sarah Michelle Gellar asked if she could 'imaginary babysit.' 'Will you be the imaginary godmother?' Reese responded. 'I'll throw the shower,' added in Ali Wentworth. Her family: The Draper James owner is a busy mother-of-three. She is a parent to Ava, 19 and sons Deacon, 15, and Tennessee, six. She is married to Jim Toth The Draper James owner is a busy mother-of-three. From 1999-2007, Reese was married to ex-husband Ryan Phillippe. The two share daughter Ava, 19, and son Deacon, 15. Following their divorce, Reese married Hollywood agent Jim Toth in 2011. The couple share son Tennessee, six. Meanwhile, Jennifer shares daughters Violet, 12, Seraphina, nine, and son Samuel, six with ex-husband Ben Affleck. She's a world-famous model known for her body positive attitude. But Samantha Harris admits she has had to deal with online trolls giving her grief in the past. The 28-year-old spoke to Popsugar this week, revealing that she's developed a 'thick skin,' but that the comments still hurt. Honest: Samantha Harris (pictured) revealed this week that she is 'hurt' by online trolls 'I've had some horrible things come my way, but I just take it with a grain of salt. It does hurt my feelings,' she told the publication. But the Australian model feels that she is taking the bullet for younger, more vulnerable girls like her fans. She added: 'But I'd rather them be saying it to me than a young girl that hasn't had as much life experience and can handle it.' Candid: The 28-year-old spoke to Popsugar, revealing that she's developed a 'thick skin,' but that the comments still hurt Not letting them get her down! The beauty has found a way to deal with trolls - simply silence them by deleting the comment The beauty has found a way to deal with trolls - simply silence them. Sam says: 'I've actually grown quite a thick skin which is good, because I used to get really upset about it. It still upsets me a little bit, but I just delete the comment.' The comments come after the model starred in a body positive campaign with lingerie brand Bras N Things, alongside fitness guru Steph Claire Smith, high jumper Amy Pejkovic and environmentalist Laura Wells. Body positivism: The comments come after Sam starred in a body positive campaign for lingerie brand Bras N Things. Pictured alongside fitness guru Steph Claire Smith (M), high jumper Amy Pejkovic and environmentalist Laura Wells (R) 'It's not your normal photo shoot or fashion shoot but I try to live a really healthy and active lifestyle in general and I feel really comfortable and confident in my own skin,' she told Confidential. The Indigenous model has been married to her partner Luke Hunt for five years and recently spoke about her future plans to start a family with her husband. She told The Daily Telegraph: 'No, (kids are) not on the way, not even in the near-future. In the future - but not any time soon'. Family time: The Indigenous model has been married to her partner Luke Hunt (left) for five years and recently spoke about her future plans to start a family with her husband She is a doting mother to her six-month-old baby son, Theodore. And Vogue Williams looked incredibly stylish as she headed out with the youngster in London on Thursday. The Irish model, 33, wrapped up in an oversized white shaggy coat atop a billowing red dress. Casual outing: Vogue Williams, 33, looked every inch the doting mother as she headed out with her six-month-old son Theodore in London on Thursday Vogue nailed her low-key look in the attention-grabbing outerwear and sensational scarlet dress. She kept things comfortable in a pair of white trainers as she casually carted along her pram. Vogue made the most of her striking features with a coat of bronzed make-up, which complemented her glossy blonde locks. Despite the windy and grim climes, Vogue added a further touch of glamour to her look with a pair of shades. Fashionista: The Irish model, 33, wrapped up in an oversized white shaggy coat atop a billowing red dress Stunning: Vogue nailed her low-key look in the attention-grabbing outerwear and sensational scarlet dress Vogue and her husband Spencer Matthews first met in 2017 in Austria, on the set of Channel 4 reality show The Jump. The reality star proposed on stage during a West End production of The Lion King in February 2018. The couple married in June 2018 at Spencer's family's estate in the Scottish Highlands, three months before welcoming their son into the world. Vogue recently admitted that she cannot take any credit for 'taming' her former lothario husband as she discussed their marriage. Casually cool: She kept things comfortable in a pair of white trainers as she casually carted along her pram Love: Vogue and Spencer Matthews married in June 2018 at his family's estate in the Scottish Highlands, three months before welcoming their son into the world Speaking to Fabulous Magazine, the model claimed that Spencer's transformation from a woman-loving party boy to doting dad and husband was simply due to him 'growing up'. She said: 'Taming Spencer wasnt anything to do with me. He had already grown up and was ready for a relationship. Ready for this kind of relationship.' Despite Spencer having changed of his own accord, Vogue also confessed that she was initially wary of entering a romance with the reality star due to his playboy reputation. She recently revealed she was left disrespected and disappointed by her close friend Sam Mucklow following their fling. But Shelby Tribble seemed to be putting her feelings behind her, as she showcased her incredible physique in a leopard-print bikini in Thailand on Thursday. The TOWIE star, 26, has been mixing business with pleasure as she topped up her tan after spending a week filming with her co-stars from the ITVBe mainstay. Gorgeous: TOWIE's Shelby Tribble showcased her incredible physique in a leopard-print bikini as she topped up her tan during a break from filming in Thailand on Thursday Shelby looked sensational as she showed off a glimpse of her cleavage in the tie-front bikini top which she wore with matching bottoms that fit high on her waist. Wearing her raven tresses in tousled beach waves, she also shielded her eyes with a pair of stylish shades which she later used to keep her hair out her face. The reality star gave her look a glittering touch as she accessorised her look with an array of golden necklaces, including a heart pendant. On Friday, Shelby revealed she has been left disrespected and disappointed by her close friend Sam Mucklow following their fling, making filming for the 24th series of TOWIE extremely awkward. Girls just wanna have fun: The TOWIE star, 26, has been mixing business with pleasure as she topped up her tan after spending a week filming with her co-stars from the ITVBe mainstay Stunning: Shelby looked sensational as she showed off a glimpse of her cleavage in the tie-front bikini top which she wore with matching bottoms that fit high on her waist Beach babe: Wearing her raven tresses in tousled beach waves, she also shielded her eyes with a pair of stylish shades which she later used to keep her hair out her face Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, she confessed things had become extremely tense between them and it seems Sam even gave the press day a miss so they wouldnt have to come face-to-face. Feeling a little jetlagged, the cast were fresh from their Thailand getaway where they enjoyed some sun, sand and the usual dose of drama. It had been reported that Shelby and Sam who is the younger brother of former cast member Billi Mucklow had enjoyed a night of passion in Thailand, and the brunette admitted he had snogged her 'so passionately' that he 'ripped off her lip'. All that glitters: The reality star gave her look a glittering touch as she accessorised her look with an array of golden necklaces, including a heart pendant Posing up a storm: The beauty seemed to be having a great time as she posed on a swing Devil's in the detail: Shelby complemented her ensemble by wearing gold hoop earrings It seems there was trouble in paradise since the Miss England finalist has now revealed their friendship has been left in tatters by the hook up. Discussing how things had changed, she said: Its very awkward. Its just sad because I counted him as one of my very close friends. I feel a bit disrespected and disappointed in him as a friend. Forget the romantic side of it or whatever that was, I never saw it as that. Obviously I fancy him, of course I do, I was always scared that we would ruin the friendship. Things have happened and I just felt very disrespected by him. It isnt nice, you wouldnt expect that from a friend. Were not speaking at the minute. Unhappy: On Friday, Shelby revealed she has been left disrespected and disappointed by her close friend Sam Mucklow following their fling Oh dear: Shelby added that her feelings on the matter made filming for the 24th series of TOWIE extremely awkward Shelby admitted his reluctance to make amends had hurt her due to the years of friendship they have shared. Its so weird because, especially me and Clelia [Theodorou], we spent so much time outside of filming as friends. Weve had so many good times, Ive been to his sisters wedding, she said. Weve done so many fun things together. Its just sad. Hes always the one to give good advice and support, hes gone and ruined that. I dont think we can get back to the place we were before. I dont really trust him anymore, you should be able to trust your friends. Tensions rising: Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, she confessed things had become extremely tense between them Disappointed: Discussing how things had changed, she said: Its very awkward. Its just sad because I counted him as one of my very close friends' Concerned: Shelby admitted his reluctance to make amends had hurt her due to the years of friendship they have shared Fans of the ITVBe show might be surprised to learn that when things were going down in Thailand, it was none other than her ex Pete Wicks who came to her rescue. Its safe to say Shelby and Pete left things on frosty terms when their relationship ended in September last year, with the reality star telling him to 'grow the f**k up' after she caught him sexting another girl. The stunning model has put her heartbreak firmly behind her, describing Pete as a real gentleman who offered support and advice in her time of need. Shelby explained: Hes been incredible. Apart from the girls, he has been my next biggest support. Hes been a complete gentleman to me as well. Unexpected: Fans of the ITVBe show might be surprised to learn that when things were going down in Thailand, it was none other than her ex Pete Wicks who came to her rescue He knows my insecurities, he knows everything about me. Hes been so supportive because Ive had quite a bit of drama. I cant fault him at all. The star revealed she was delighted they had managed to salvage their friendship, and has missed his sense of humour. Its such a nice feeling, working with your ex isnt an ideal situation, youre forced to be together. Im glad weve got the friendship back, she said. The Only Way Is Essex returns on Sunday night at 9pm on ITVBe. She never fails to turn heads with her sensational sense of style. And Elizabeth Hurley one again brought the glamour as she attended socialite Heather Kerzner's birthday party at Claridge's Hotel in Mayfair, London, on Friday. The actress and model, 53, dazzled in a glittering silver gown, which featured an elegant fur stole, for the occasion. Glitzy: Elizabeth Hurley brought the glamour as she attended socialite Heather Kerzner's birthday party at Claridge's Hotel in Mayfair, London, on Friday Dressing her hourglass figure in the floor-length frock, Elizabeth accentuated her slender physique with striped detailing along the waist. She teamed the elegant ensemble with a silver and gold clutch bag and glitzy drop earrings. The Royals star wore her brunette locks in voluminous waves and showcased her youthful visage with her signature black eyeliner, blush-swept cheeks and a glossy pink lip. Wow! The actress and model, 53, dazzled in a glittering silver gown, which featured an elegant fur stole, for the occasion Pals: Elizabeth was joined at the party by a host of well-known celebrities from the Mayfair circle, including Tamara Beckwith (left) and Tania Bryer (right) Pretty in pink! Birthday girl Heather went all out with a shimmering pink gown for her big day Elizabeth was joined at the party by a host of well-known celebrities from the Mayfair circle, including Tamara Beckwith and Tania Bryer. Meanwhile, despite the weather, Elizabeth managed to look effortlessly elegant at the star-studded Champion Day of the 2019 Cheltenham Festival on Tuesday. The former Countdown star wore a chic ensemble of a grey and baby blue tweed tailored coat with black velvet buttons, she accessorised it with a brown faux-fur collar. Chic: Despite the weather, Elizabeth managed to look effortlessly elegant at the star-studded Champion Day of the 2019 Cheltenham Festival on Tuesday Elizabeth completed her look with a black velvet fascinator embellished with matching colour lace flowers and beads. Adding a pop of colour, a collection of pink flowers were attached on the left side of the sophisticated accessory. The Austin Powers actress styled her brunette locks into a voluminous curly blow-dried hairdo, she added a slick of glamorous make-up which included black eye-liner and pink lipgloss. Elizabeth appeared in good spirits as she posed with Irish jockey Mark Walsh, who rode Espoir D'Allen who won the Unibet Champion Hurdle on Tuesday. Cross Section of South West chiefs W. MUSA The new president of the South West Chiefs Conference (SWECC), was on Friday March 15, voted in Buea, during an extraordinary meeting of the network, that saw the Chiefs reading out words of gratitude to President Paul Biya for fighting to restore peace and stability in the region. Chief Njie Mafany Martins of Liongo village, was presented to the population at a local hotel in town, during a meeting that brought together Chiefs of the region.Reports say he had been elected in Yaounde weeks ago, and was only presented to the people on Friday. The third class Chief will be assisted by Reverend Dr. Andrew Ekoka Molindo. The new bureau was installed yesterday by the Director of Cabinet at the Prime Ministers office, Ebune Confiance. Before his presentation , Fako chiefs had been at loggerheads on whom to take over SWECC. Senator Nfon Victor Mukete was accused of laying a firm grib on SWECC's stool, although his term of office had elapsed. In 2017, the Chiefs met in a gathering that could have led to the election of a new bureau in Limbe, but they rather went fighting. This pushed the then SDO for Fako,George Zang III, to ban the meeting. Fako Chiefs wanted at all cost to head SWECC. Chief Johnson Njombe of Wokaka declared himself interim president of SWECC. He was not given any post in the Friday March 15, newly created bureau. By the end of the meeting, a motion of support was sent out by the South West Chiefs, thanking President Paul Biya for reorganising the GCE Board, his fight for peace and stability in the Anglophone regions, the appointment of Prime Minister Dion Ngute who hails from the South West, and the reappointment of some of theirs at ministerial positions. They further condemned the destruction of their palaces, the Kumba District hospital as hostilities intensify in the South West, while reiterating their stance for a one, united, bilingual, indivisible Cameroon. . She loves the outdoors, and is often seen surfing, hiking and biking during her spare time. And Helen Hunt was back at it again, as she enjoyed a fun day out with her daughter Makena Lei Carnahan, 14, at Disney's California Adventure on Friday. The actress, 55, showcased her youthful complexion during the outing, as she could be seen applying sunscreen on her face to protect herself. Looking after herself: Helen Hunt, 55, put on sunscreen to protect her youthful complexion as she enjoyed a fun day out with daughter Makena at Disney's California Adventure on Friday Helen kept things casual as she donned a sleeveless puffy jacket over a long-sleeved top, and wore a hand towel around her neck. The As Good As It Gets star completed her look by slipping her slender legs into khaki-green trousers and black trainers. She pulled her blonde locks into a tight bun, while she shielded her eyes from the brilliant sun by wearing a stylish pair of shades. Helen shares daughter Makena and son Emmett, 21, with Matthew Carnahan, who she split from in August 2017 after 16 years together. Animated display: Helen seemed to be in good spirits during the outing, as the pair road the Radiator Springs ride in Carsland Helen is best known for winning several Emmys and Golden Globe Awards for her long-running series Mad About You and for getting an Oscar for 1998's As Good As It Gets with Jack Nicholson. She also had several hit movies like 1996's Twister with Bill Paxton and 2000's Cast Away with Tom Hanks. Her last few films are I Love You, Daddy, Candy Jar and The Miracle Season. The star is also said to be set to star in a TV movie revival of her show Mad About You. Fresh twist on an old favorite? Helen is said to be set to star in a TV movie revival of her show Mad About You along with her co-star Paul Rieser, seen together above in 1995 She and co-star Paul Rieser were said to be in 'informal talks' about the series at the close of 2017, according to the site TVLine. According to the site, Sony, who produced the original Golden Globe winning show, 'has begun informal talks with leads... about bringing the series back for a limited run.' An insider told the news site that the story for the new series would be about Paul and Jamie coping with their daughter moving out of home. Mad About You aired from 1992 to 1999 on NBC and was about New York newlyweds Paul and Jamie Buchman. She's a doting mum to two sons, and is currently expecting her first with beau Joe Swash. And Stacey Solomon spoke to Lorraine on Friday about her decision to take maternity leave from her various roles including the Loose Women panel. The television personality, 29, who confirmed her pregnancy in February told the talk show host: 'People say I can't take maternity leave but obviously I can if I want to, we're all self employed so it's different. Scroll down for video. Setting the record straight: Stacey Solomon spoke to Lorraine on Friday about her decision to take maternity leave from her various roles including the Loose Women panel 'Joe and I both have jobs that mean we could be out of work for the next six months but we are incredible privileged to be in a jobs we enjoy so we just take it as it comes. 'Im not planning on having loads of maternity leave, but Im not going to have none. I enjoy my work so much so thatll keep me occupied, it'll get to that point in pregnancy where Ill be like "when will it be over".' She added that she'll stop her work commitments a 'couple of weeks' before her due date to give herself time to adjust. Love: The television personality, 29, who confirmed her she's expecting her first child with Joe Swash said: 'People say I can't take maternity leave but obviously I can if I want to' Speaking out: She added: 'Joe and I both have jobs that mean we could be out of work for the next six months but we are incredible privileged to be in a jobs we enjoy so we just take it as it comes' But Stacey told The Chris Evans Breakfast Show earlier this month: 'I'm self-employed so if I don't work, I don't get paid. 'In this industry you can only earn while you're earning and it might be a situation that I have work now but in six months time I might not. I will carry on working.' Stacey and Joe confirmed last month that they were expecting their first child together, which would also be her third and his second. Taking a break: Stacey continued: 'Im not planning on having loads of maternity leave, but Im not going to have none' Big change: She added that she'll stop her work commitments a 'couple of weeks' before her due date to give herself time to adjust While the pair have kept mum on whether they will find out the gender of their new arrival, Stacey told Lorraine she is certainly interested in the prospect of having her first baby girl. She said: 'I definitely am interested, you have that curiosity about having a girl but we are just happy to be happens. 'Please god everything goes well, no matter if its a boy or a girl we'll be over the moon. We are so privileged to become a parent to another one.' Doting: While the pair have kept mum on whether they will find out the gender of their new arrival, Stacey told Lorraine she is certainly interested in the prospect of having her first baby girl Look of love: Stacey and Joe confirmed last month that they were expecting their first child together, which would also be her third and his second The star - who grew up in Dagenham - rose to public attention in 2009 on The X Factor. Joe shares son Harry, 11, with ex Emma Sophocleous while Stacey is mother to Zachary, 10, with Dean Cox and Leighton, six, with Aaron Barham. Joe previously told Loose Women: 'We've both got children, two different lives going on sometimes so this child is going to tie up the family... 'My kid and yours are going to feel like part of a big family, it's such a lovely family, we look after them now and they can look after us later.' She often treats fans to a glimpse of her lavish getaways on social media. And Millie Mackintosh is already enjoying another luxurious holiday as she shared stunning bikini snaps of her trip to Rovaniemi, Finland, on Instagram. In one photograph, the former Made In Chelsea star, 29, looked tanned, toned and glowing as she posed for an idyllic snap in front of a scenic hot tub in the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel. Impressive: Millie Mackintosh is already enjoying another luxurious holiday as she shared stunning bikini snaps of her trip to Rovaniemi, Finland, on Instagram The confident stunner slipped her slender frame into a light blue, two-piece bikini, which revealed her perky cleavage and teased at her toned abs. Commanding attention, Millie's costume accentuated her physique and gave her 1.3million Instagram followers a glimpse of her perky derriere. In another shot, the reality star posed in the same bikini while lying on a bed, with the caption: 'Missing my love @hugotaylorlondon (her husband Hugo Taylor)'. Wow! In one Instagram story, the former Made In Chelsea star looked tanned, toned and glowing as she posed for an idyllic snap in front of a hot tub in the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel Home sick: In another shot, the reality star posed in the same bikini while lying on a bed, with the caption: 'Missing my love @hugotaylorlondon (her husband Hugo Taylor)' Flexible: Millie often treats fans to a glimpse of her lavish getaways on social media In now expired Instagram stories, the blogger revealed she was at the stunning destination as part of a press trip. But previous exotic getaways of Millie's have been thanks to companies gifting her the glamorous holidays. In January, for instance, Millie jetted on the second leg of her honeymoon with husband Hugo Taylor during which she thanked The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort for 'hosting her'. At the start of this year Millie was among 16 stars and influencers who had breached Advertising Standards Authority rules surrounding paid posts on Instagram. Relaxing: In recent days, Millie has been tagging herself in snaps from her 'Press trip' to the luxurious resort. However, the star is still keeping up with what's going on at home as she FaceTimed her friend Vogue Williams Lucky Millie's jet-set gifts 2019 January: The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort Millie jetted on the second leg of her honeymoon with husband Hugo Taylor during which she thanked the resort for 'hosting her'. January: Soho Farmhouse The lucky star was invited on a weekend away to the exclusive location where she was hosted by bargain designer site The Outnet. January: Chenot Palace Health Wellness Hotel in Azerbaijan Ahead of the BAFTAs in February, Millie was welcomed for a detox holiday, during which she wrote on a snap: 'They have kindly invited me to experience the #chenotmethod in preparation for the bafta awards'. March: Arctic TreeHouse Hotel in Finland In recent days, Millie has been tagging herself in snaps from her 'Press trip' to the luxurious resort. Although it is unknown what press publication she is working in conjunction with, she has stuck to Instagram guidelines for influencers to clearly mark when they have not paid for a trip themselves. Advertisement The reality star is far from alone in having flouted advertising guidelines in this way as Instagram is often flooded with famous faces who promote products, arguably without making it clear they are being paid for the sponsorship. That is why the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) conducted an investigation into concerns that social media stars are not properly declaring when they have been paid, or otherwise rewarded, to endorse goods or services. All the stars identified in the investigation, which began last August, agreed to change their ways. Under consumer protection law, influencers are required to clearly state if they have received payment for products they endorse - either in gifts, money, or by loan of the products. Loved up: In January, Millie jetted on the second leg of her honeymoon with husband Hugo Taylor during which she thanked the resort for 'hosting her' Baring all: Millie shared a topless snap of herself following a mud treatment at the Chenot Palace Health Wellness Hotel in Azerbaijan in January He has just enjoyed an idyllic trip to Western Australia with wife Elsa Pataky and their family, and Matt Damon. And on Friday, Australian star Chris Hemsworth was spotted flying back to his hometown of Byron Bay, on the NSW north coast, via Brisbane, in a helicopter. The 35-year-old Thor star was joined by his young family on the outing. Travelling in style! Chris Hemsworth (R) flies back to his hometown of Byron Bay, via Brisbane, in a helicopter Chris - who hails from Melbourne - cut a casual figure on the day, wearing runners with a black T-shirt and dark shorts. He covered his famous face with a cap and sunglasses and carried a backpack. It comes after Spanish stunner Elsa, 42, gushed over their time in Western Australia with their family and friends. Holiday: He has just enjoyed an idyllic trip to Western Australia with wife Elsa Pataky (L) and their family, and Matt Damon The blonde beauty took to Instagram on Saturday to share a number of snaps from the beachside getaway, including a snap of herself cuddling up to Chris. 'We feel so lucky to have been able to go on an incredible trip to WA (Western Australia) a beautiful place with amazing people,' Elsa's post began. 'We slept in tents, had little water, and no phone signal or wifi.' 'We feel so lucky': It comes after Spanish stunner Elsa, 42, gushed over their time in Western Australia with their family and friends She finished: 'We were able to connect with our kids, partners and friends in deeper, different ways. Without the stress of routine, without agendas, plans or luxuries. Just beaches, shells, surf and games around the camp fire. I feel very fortunate.' The couple swapped the bright lights of Hollywood for a more relaxed life in Byron Bay, on Australia's east coast, five years ago. The Hollywood pair have been married for nine years, and have called Byron Bay home since 2014. He recently split from on-off girlfriend Amber Turner after rekindling their romance on Valentine's Day. And for The Only Way Is Essex's Dan Edgar finding a rebound doesn't seem on the cards when his fellow reality pals prank him by stealing his grooming products and clothes during their trip to Thailand. In an exclusive clip from the latest series of TOWIE - returning to television on Sunday - the 28-year-old reality star was the subject of the joke by James 'Diags' Bennewith and Liam 'Gatsby' Blackwell due to 'stealing all the birds'. Scroll down for full video. Oh no: For TOWIE's Dan Edgar finding a rebound doesn't seem on the cards when his fellow reality pals prank him by stealing his clothes during their trip to Thailand Diags, 27, explained: 'Dan is single now alright and it's unfair, we've had enough of it. He nicks all of the birds so we took his hair stuff, we took his case, his clothes, his toiletries and his hairdryer'. After cracking up into peals of laughter Sam Mucklow asked: 'You took his hair stuff? That's a liberty'. Diags proved just how serious he was about the encounter by showing Sam and Pete Wicks a video of himself and Gatsby packing Dan's belongings into a case and hiding it away. Reveng: In an exclusive clip from the latest series of TOWIE the 28-year-old reality star was the subject of the joke by James 'Diags' Bennewith and Liam 'Gatsby' Blackwell due to 'stealing all the birds' Banter: Diags, 27, explained: 'Dan is single now alright and it's unfair, we've had enough of it. He nicks all of the birds so we took his hair stuff, his case, his clothes, his toiletries and his hairdryer' Getting their own back: After cracking up into peals of laughter Sam Mucklow asked: 'You took his hair stuff? That's a liberty' Sam later stated: 'So he's got bad breath, s**t hair and no clobber'. Pete joked: 'I guarantee he still nicks more birds than you though'. But Gatsby revealed that the pair didn't leave Dan completely in the lurch and kitted him out with clothing they found in their Thai hotel to 'actually give him some personality'. Funny: Diags proved just how serious he was about the encounter by showing Sam and Pete Wicks a video of himself and Gatsby packing Dan's belongings into a case and hiding it away Pointless effort: Pete joked: 'I guarantee he still nicks more birds than you though' Hilarious: As the scene continued, a bronzed Chloe Sims stumbled upon Dan in his 'I heart Samui' neon tee and elephant print bottoms before bursting into laughter As the scene continued, a bronzed Chloe Sims stumbled upon Dan in his 'I heart Samui' neon tee and elephant print bottoms before bursting into laughter. But his humiliation wasn't over as he greeted his lad pals who asked: 'What have you come as? Do you love it here?'. An unimpressed Dan replied: 'I look like an over excited tourist that's just come to Thailand for the first time'. Boys holiday: His humiliation wasn't over as he greeted his lad pals who asked: 'What have you come as? Do you love it here?' Spot on: Dan replied: 'I look like an over excited tourist that's just come to Thailand for the first time' And an unsympathetic Pete delivered the final blow to Dan's confidence: 'This is why Amber dumped ya. Your new dress sense'. After his split from Amber, Dan previously admitted that 'it is a relief' not to have to deal with the 'arguments' on the series, revealing it will be nice to 'have a laugh' and 'relax'. The former couple embarked on a casual fling in 2017 before making things official last year, but broke off their relationship for the first time in December. Oscar Isaac revealed some of the unused footage of the late Carrie Fisher appearing in Star Wars: Episode IX will develop Leia Organa and Poe Dameron's relationship. Making an appearance on Sirius XM with host John Fugelsang on Tuesday, the actor, 40, said it will explore the bond forged between the two characters. Discussing how he felt while looking back at the many scenes they shared in The Last Jedi, Oscar explained: '[Carrie] and I worked together so much. Star Wars Episode IX: Oscar Isaac revealed some of Carrie Fisher's unused footage will explore the bond between Leia Organa and Poe Dameron, while on Sirius XM on Tuesday 'We would talk about the scenes, and we got very tight during the shooting of that. So it was a beautiful thing to see, and it gets carried over into the new film as well.' While he claimed it was 'definitely an unusual thing' to include the unused footage in the forthcoming Star Wars film, he added: 'I also think it was right to engage with her character, and not just let it be something that fades away.' Carrie died of a cardiac arrest at the age of 60 in December 2016, and she played the role of Leia since the first Star Wars film, which was released in 1977. Moving: Discussing how he felt looking back at the scenes they shared in The Last Jedi, Oscar explained: 'it was a beautiful thing to see, and it gets carried over into the new film as well' It was revealed in July last year that J.J. Abrams would be using unreleased scenes of her in the next Star Wars film, following her tragic death. Of using the footage, which were shot in 2015's The Force Awakens, the director said in a statement: 'Finding a truly satisfying conclusion to the Skywalker saga without her eluded us. We were never going to recast, or use a CG character.' 'With the support and blessing from her daughter, Billie, we have found a way to honour Carrie's legacy and role as Leia in Episode IX by using unseen footage we shot together in Episode VII.' But in December, Carrie's brother Todd, 60, revealed the actresses appearance in the final film of the sequel trilogy is 'going to look like it was meant to be.' Forever an icon: Carrie died of a cardiac arrest at the age of 60 in December 2016, and she played the role of Leia since the first Star Wars film, which debuted in 1977 Speaking to Good Morning America, the director said: There's a lot of minutes of footage. I don't mean just outtakes. This is unused, new content that could be woven into the storyline.' 'That's what's going to give everybody such a great kick, it's going to look like it was meant to be. Like it was shot yesterday.' While Todd admitted he wasn't able to say more on the subject, he did say that he and Carrie's family are 'thrilled at what's been done.' Earlier this week, Oscar also confirmed on The Today Show that the new film will mark the 'end of the entire Skywalker saga' in the franchise. Their story will end: Earlier this week, Oscar also confirmed on The Today Show that the new film will mark the 'end of the entire Skywalker saga' in the franchise The Inside Llewelyn Davis star, who plays Resistance pilot Poe Dameron, explained: 'It is the end of the entire Skywalker saga, nine stories and this is the culmination of the thing.' 'I think what J.J. has done, and really the whole Lucas team, is going to be incredibly fulfilling and also special for us because you will get to learn a lot more new things about these characters. The Skywalker saga began in 1977 with George Lucas' ground-breaking first film of the space opera series, which saw the rise of iconic characters Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), Han Solo (Harrison Ford) and Princess Leia. It also featured Darth Vader, Luke and Leia's father, whose ominous black costume and deep voice made him one of cinema's most prolific villains. Legendary: The Skywalker saga began in 1977 with George Lucas' first film, which featured Darth Vader, Luke and Leia's father, who became one of cinema's most prolific villains In the as-yet-untitled new film, Oscar will be joined by co-stars Daisy Ridley, Mark, Adam Driver, John Boyega, Kelly Marie Tran and Domhnall Gleeson. Original Star Wars actor Billie Dee Williams will also return to the franchise for the first time in the sequel trilogy to reprise his role as Lando Calrissian. Filming for Episode IX wrapped in February, with the director sharing a tribute to the cast and crew alongside an image of John, Oscar and Daisy hugging on set. Star Wars: Episode IX is due to be released on December 20, 2019. She married Greg Shepherd in an idyllic ceremony last week. But Billie Faiers was happy to be home following her Maldives honeymoon as she took to Instagram to document her reunion with her children, Nelly, four, and Arthur, two, this weekend. The 28-year-old former TOWIE star posted adorable snaps with her two youngsters as she returned to the UK, with one showing her kissing Arthur on the cheek and another of her hugging Nelly to her chest. She's back! Billie Faiers was happy to be home following her Maldives honeymoon as she took to Instagram to document her reunion with her children, Nelly, four, and Arthur, two She captioned the images on her social media account: 'How happy am I to be home with you,' and 'Home to my beautiful girl. So happy,' respectively. The newlywed and her husband also treated their children to a trip to a Jump Giants Trampoline park on Saturday, sharing sweet clips of the family bouncing together to her Instagram. Billie and Greg wed in an idyllic ceremony last Tuesday on the island of Kuramathi after a five-year engagement. Sweet: The 28-year-old former TOWIE star posted adorable snaps with her two youngsters as she returned to the UK, with one showing her kissing Arthur on the cheek Family: Another captured the reality star hugging Nelly to her chest and both of them smiling towards the camera Fun times: The newlywed and her husband also treated their children to a trip to a Jump Giants Trampoline park on Saturday Their nuptials have been marred with controversy after they were accused of ruining a host of fellow holidaymakers' trips due to their guests' raucous behaviour. And while they remained defiant about the antics, the couple skirted their woes to enjoy their honeymoon with a prolonged and child-free stay in the Maldives. Having heavily documented the events online, Thursday was no different as Greg filmed Billie as she sizzled in a black gown with racy slashes at the leg. Slashed: Happy days: The TOWIE star was seen strutting her stuff in a stunning slashed gown as Greg, 33, filmed her in admiration while also poking fun at his wife Happy days: He also posted a shot while Billie looked through a telescope-style device while teasing her for 'not knowing what she's doing' As she strutted along the decking, Greg was heard to say: 'Here comes the bride, all dressed in black!' before branding her 'The Wicked Witch Of The Maldives'. He also posted a shot while Billie looked through a telescope-style device while teasing her for 'not knowing what she's doing'. Billie and Greg idyllic nuptials have been sending fans wild over the past week, with devoted followers keen to know the ins and outs. The happy newlyweds gave delighted fans an insight into the stunning festivities in their OK! Magazine spread. After streams of reports about the big day, the couple set the record straight as they revealed hilarious details, including the fact that Greg's three best men performed a spoof of their show The Mummy Diaries and Billie's annoyance at Greg's 'epic fail'. Happy days: As she strutted along the decking, Greg was heard to say: 'Here comes the bride, all dressed in black!' before branding her 'The Wicked Witch Of The Maldives' One of the highlights was undoubtedly when Greg's three best men created a Mummy Diaries spoof as Greg revealed: 'They had some help from The Mummy Diaries crew so they created a spoof episode... 'They were taking the mick out of how long it took to get my Instagram verification.' While Billie treated Greg to a Cartier belt and cufflinks, the groom did not realise wedding gifts were 'a thing' to which she responded: 'Epic fail, Greg!' Clearly disheartened, she pushed: 'Every time the door went on my wedding day I was thinking that will be my present but it never arrived!' She is said to be fuming after reports her husband Dan Osborne shared a kiss Alexandra Cane And Jacqueline Jossa, 26, decided to take a break from all of the drama when she jetted off on a well-deserved holiday with a pal on Saturday. In pictures obtained by The Sun, the EastEnders actress was seen arriving at London City Airport with her suitcases to hand and a friend. Break away: Jacqueline Jossa escaped for a much-needed holiday without the kids after she shared a cryptic post amid Dan Osborne and Alexandra Cane kiss claims The mother-of-two left her children Mia and Ella in the care of their father and her husband Dan while she took some much needed respite time. Dan relished in the extra time with his children as he whisked the girls and his son Teddy, whom he shares with his ex Megan, to Legoland in Windsor. The happy reality star documented their fun-filled day out with a series of posts broadcast across Instagram stories. It comes after Jacqueline shared a cryptic post as she pointed to her wedding ring on Instagram on Friday following the alleged cheating drama. In the snap, the EastEnders star strategically placed her hand over her heart and she pointed to her sparkling rock. Some-ring to tell us? Jacqueline pointed to her wedding ring in cryptic Instagram post on Friday after 'dumping Dan' amid Alexandra kiss claims Doting dad: Dan relished in the extra time with his children as he whisked the girls and his son Teddy, whom he shares with his ex Megan, to Legoland in Windsor Using the Instagram filter, the EastEnders star added the word 'mood' to her snap as well as adding an arrow to draw attention to her wedding ring. Having had a difficult time of late, the mother-of-two treated herself to a pampering session when she applied a face mask in the comfort of her own company. Some-ring to show off: In the snap, the EastEnders star strategically placed her hand over her heart and she pointed to her rock On Thursday, the actress enjoyed some chill time with her children Ella and Mia as they watched Disney's Frozen in their living room. Jacqueline's post comes amid claims that she furiously dumped husband Dan after it was reported that he kissed Love Island star Alexandra on a night out. Sources told The Sun she kicked him out of the home they share with daughters Ella and Mia. They said: '[Jacqueline] feels embarrassed and very angry that he would put her through the stress and decided enough was enough so kicked him out. 'Dan is truly gutted that Jacqueline is saying it's over. He's really hopeful he will be able to talk her round once she calms down. He's really angry about it all and telling friends he will do whatever he can to save his marriage.' A rep for Dan Osborne told the site that he has just temporarily moved out to help his nan clean out her house. So sad: She is said to have dumped her husband Dan after reports made claims he shared a kiss with Love Island's Alexandra on a night out MailOnline contacted representatives for Jacqueline Jossa and Dan Osborne for comment at the time. Hours later, Dan also took to social media to vehemently deny claims he kissed Alexandra, saying in a video: 'There's a story going round, it's a load of rubbish! 'Yes I was out in Manchester, yes I was having a drink, yes I was having a little dance with friends. Pictured: Jacqueline shared a cryptic post as she pointed to her wedding ring on Instagram on Friday following the alleged kiss drama 'No I did not kiss absolutely anyone. Even though we both denied it, it's out there, all I can say is it's not true, I did not kiss anyone.' This latest development also comes amid reports that Alexandra's real estate boyfriend Adam Theobald has forgiven her for the alleged kissing. A source close to the couple told The Sun Online: They're still together. It hasn't affected their relationship at all. Claims: Dan and Alexandra had both attended the U S E App Launch and were pictured leaving in a car together, with friends, although there is no suggestion that anything further happened The Sun had claimed the pair were grinding and thrusting on one another as well as kissing on the dancefloor at Manchesters Neighbourhood bar on Thursday night. Dan and Alexandra had both attended the U S E App Launch and were pictured leaving in a car together, with friends, although there is no suggestion that anything further happened. Both stars spokespersons released a joint statement to MailOnline hours earlier, saying: 'Absolutely nothing happened with Alex. 'Dan has been friends with her for a while after working together. They all met up with friends and enjoyed a great night out like friends do.' She's had a tumultuous few weeks. But Khloe Kardashian was looking and feeling celestial, as she started her weekend on a positive note on Saturday. The 34-year-old reality television star shared a sultry selfie, wearing a crescent moon pendant around her neck. Blue moon: Khloe Kardashian was looking and feeling celestial, as she started her weekend on a positive note on Saturday She even captioned the image with an emoji of the moon. The star - who is mom to 11-month-old True Thompson - was backlit by bright sunshine which only added to her ethereal appeal. Her flawless complexion is enhanced by blusher and a pink lip colour, and she framed her eyes with soft brown shades and mascara. Yummy mommy: It comes as Khloe is said to be preparing for sole custody of their daughter True She was wearing a pale pink satin wrap, as she showed her ex boyfriend Tristan exactly what he's missing. It comes as Khloe is said to be preparing for sole custody of their daughter True, after Tristan's cheating became too much, when it involved her sister Kylie's friend Jordyn Woods. Although Khloe still wants Tristan to be involved with regular visits, she feels sole custody would ensure shes always the primary person in Trues everyday life, according to HollywoodLife.com on Saturday. 'Khloe worries about her daughters future and is prepared to fight to maintain custody of her only child,' a source close to the Kardashian family told the website. Khloe, pictured in October 2017, reportedly is happy for Tristan to have visitation but she wants to secure sole custody of True They added: 'The best part of Khloes day is singing her daughter to sleep every night and she would be heartbroken if that was ever taken away from her. 'So Khloe is working closely with her attorneys to make sure that Tristan has fair visitation rights but that sole custody remains firmly with her. 'Khloe is in close contact with her family attorney to insure that she will never lose custody of True to Tristan, should he decide to take her to court. They added that although Khloe is independently wealthy, that doesn't excuse Tristan from his responsibilities as a father. The source told them: 'While Khloe is financially secure, she has also discussed child support with her attorney, she is making sure all her bases are covered and that everything dealing with True and Tristan is fair and equitable.' Tristan and Khloe split after it emerged that at a party last month, he kissed Jordyn Woods, the best friend of Kendall's younger sister Kylie Jenner. Khloe began dating the Cleveland Cavalier heartthrob when his ex-girlfriend Jordan Craig was still pregnant with his firstborn. Less than 48 hours before True was born last April, DailyMail.com broke the story of Tristan's alleged infidelity with New York City strip club bartender Lani Blair. Khloe co-founded the apparel brand Good American and has used Jordyn, 21, as a model for the firm, helping the younger woman kick off her career. He is an Irish-German actor that is married to Tomb Raider beauty Alicia Vikander. And Michael Fassbender enjoyed a day out with the boys ahead of St. Patrick's Day in Dublin on Saturday. The 40-year-old was joined in the Irish capital with Game Of Throne's actor Liam Cunningham, 57, and chef Dylan McGrath, 41, as they took to the city to enjoy the festivities ahead of the national holiday. Boys day: Michael Fassbender, 40, enjoyed a day out with Game Of Throne's actor Liam Cunningham, 57, and chef Dylan McGrath, 41 ahead of St. Patrick's Day in Dublin on Saturday Cutting a low-key figure, Michael covered his head in a blue cap and despite the grey skies he shaded his eyes in a pair of sunglasses. The star tied together his look with a pair of denim jeans and a white t-shirt that he layered underneath a checkered shirt and a khaki green jacket. Liam, also joined in on the casual look by sporting dark jeans, a pale blue v-neck t-shirt with a grey leather blazer over the top. Award-winning Irish celebrity chef, Dylan McGrath also matched in with the trio by dressing down in denim and selected a white printed t-shirt which peeped out of the top of his zipped-up leather bomber jacket. Irish trio: Cutting a low-key figure, Michael covered his head in a blue cap and despite the grey skies he shaded his eyes in a pair of sunglasses Michael and his wife Alicia have recently returned from a trip to Madrid. The gorgeous duo made their couple debut together on the red carpet at the 2016 Golden Globe Awards. Things went from strength-to-strength and the pair went on to tie the knot in a romantic ceremony in Ibiza in 2017, with film director Steve McQueen among those on the seclusive guest list. Time to celebrate! Dylan McGrath selected a white printed t-shirt which peeped out of the top of his zipped-up leather bomber jacket Day off: The three guys looked in high spirits as they walked along the pavement Alicia and Michael relocated to Lisbon together, of which the actress told Elle: 'When I met my husband three and a half years ago, he had mentioned hed been to Lisbon and loved it, and I knew friends who were moving out there. 'And that was a time when I was just starting to feel really at home in London. But after Brexit I think I was like, "Meh, you know what, I want to stay in Europe."' Une femme enceinte photo internet Reports say, it was a sad Friday morning at the Bamenda City Council, as weird screams of a pregnant woman saturated the whole building. In her 8 months old pregnancy, she had been nursing hopes for a man who went behind her back, to marry his colleague. The wedding took place at the City Council, after sources close to the victim had disclosed to her that the man she was hoping to settle with, was getting married at the council. The lawyer, a boyfriend to the victim for years, lied to her that he couldnt stay at same place with her, because the separatist group locally called Amba boys were after his life. Even at the point of getting married, he told the victim he was going to court, meanwhile it was the date of his wedding to his female colleague. Unfortunately for the victim, she got there late, when marital rights had already been performed. Feeling frustrated, she burst out in tears and screams, having discovered the man she trusted so much had betrayed her. She then collapsed and was taken away by an onlooker for medical attention. She is said to be an orphan and not well to do. This is the faith of most kam we stay ( cohabitation) marriages in Cameroon. Since no laws bind both parties together, most often they end up fighting and one partner retreating for greener pastures. Cameroons civil status registry has made it simple for these kam we stay families to legalise their union as soon as possible, at the cost of not more than FCFA 5000. Children are most often victims of these union, when it gets sour. Niger has launched an effort to immunise six million children against meningitis Health authorities in Niger said Friday they had found a fake version of a meningitis vaccine after the country had launched a campaign to innoculate millions of children against the disease. In a statement, the health ministry asked doctors to be vigilant over a "counterfeit" version of a vaccine called Mencevax ACWY. The fake drug is marked as having been manufactured in December 2016, with an end-date for use by November 2021, it said. Niger launched a week-long campaign on March 5 to vaccinate six million children against meningitis, which killed nearly 200 people two years ago. The country lies in the so-called "meningitis belt" stretching from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia in the east, where outbreaks of the disease are a regular occurrence. The vaccination programme is against meningitis A, one of the six groups of meningitis bacteria that can cause epidemics. The ministry's spokesman told AFP the bogus drug had been discovered during a "routine inspection" of a privately-owned pharmacy in the capital Niamey. An investigation is underway to try to ascertain how many of the fake vaccines have been used, the spokesman said. Health workers administering meningitis jabs are being asked to take special care about their supply source, and the public are being urged to scrutinise vaccines clearly, even if they buy them in "licensed" pharmacies. Fake drugs -- medications that are outright counterfeits or whose active ingredients have been diluted -- are a major problem in West Africa. In the 2017 outbreak, and in an epidemic in 2015 in which nearly 500 people died, Niger sounded the alarm over purported vials of vaccine that just contained water. Meningitis is transmitted between people through coughs and sneezes, close contact and cramped living conditions. The illness causes acute inflammation of the outer layers of the brain and spinal cord, with the most common symptoms being fever, headache and neck stiffness. The move marks the latest deterioration in relations between Washington and Havana The United States announced on Friday it would replace a five-year, multiple-entry tourist visa offered to Cubans with a single-entry visa valid for just three months, to match the island nation's own visa rules for US visitors. The move marks the latest deterioration in relations between Washington and Havana since US President Donald Trump entered office in 2017. Washington's Deputy Chief of Mission at its embassy in Havana, Mara Tekach, said in a video published on social media that the measure was taken because "US immigration law requires that US visa fees and validity periods be reciprocal." She said Cuba allows US tourists a single entry visa valid for up to three months. The new US rules apply to Cubans seeking to visit the US for family visits and medical treatment as well as vacations. The measure comes into effect on March 18 but won't affect existing visas, a Department of State official said. Under Obama, US-Cuba relations thawed after decades of tension, with the two countries reopening embassies in each other's capitals. But under Trump, Washington has ramped up sanctions, first applied in 1962, against Cuba's communist regime. Trump has hit out at Cuba over its support for its socialist ally, Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro, while he also claimed last month that leftist ideologies in the region were "dying." The US evacuated diplomatic staff and their families in 2017 after at least two dozen people suffered brain injuries that resembled concussion, but with no exterior signs of trauma. The US accused Cuba of carrying out "health attacks" using some sort of acoustic or microwave device, a charge Havana angrily rejected. Cuba insisted the move was "politically motivated." Friday's announcement will make it even harder for Cubans to gain US visas: they already have to travel abroad to apply due to the lack of US consular services on the island nation. Even so, of the two million Cubans living outside the country, most reside in the US. The US government does not allow its citizens to travel to Cuba as tourists, likewise meaning that travelers must leave the country before applying for a visa to visit the Caribbean island. Rains from tropical cyclone Idai hit Malawi on Friday after first making landfall in Mozambique At least 31 people have been killed and dozens are missing as tropical cyclone Idai hit eastern parts of Zimbabwe after lashing neighbouring Mozambique, the government said on Saturday. Most of the deaths were in Chimanimani town, Zimbabwe's information ministry announced on Twitter. Two of the victims were students who died after a landslide sent a boulder crashing into their dormitory, collapsing the wall of the dining room and trapping 50 of them, the country's Department of Civil Protection (DCP) said in a statement. The boarding school has been shut and the army, which is leading rescue operations, is moving in to take the nearly 200 students to safety. "So far a total of 71 people are reported missing," said the DCP. Others who had fled their homes were stranded on top of a mountain waiting to be rescued, including workers from a diamond mine, as strong winds and poor visibility hampered helicopter flights, the government said. The storm damaged many houses and washed away bridges in the eastern Manicaland province which borders Mozambique. Thousands of people have been affected by power cuts and flooding, a lawmaker told AFP. Earlier Saturday, Joshua Sacco, an MP in Chimanimani district, told AFP that more than 100 people were missing. Around 100 houses had been swept away in Ngangu township in Chimanimani town, he said. Strong winds ripped roofs off prison cells in the southern city of Masvingo, according to state broadcaster ZBC. The opposition Movement for Democratic Change called for immediate help for the storm-hit east, warning that a "serious humanitarian crisis" was unfolding. "We need state intervention on a massive scale to avoid biblical disaster," MDC spokesman Jacob Mafume wrote on Twitter. President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is currently on a visit to Abu Dhabi, has declared a state of disaster in the affected areas. "My thoughts & prayers are with all those affected by Cyclone Idai. Rescue operations are underway & we are grateful for the bravery of the men & women of the Zimbabwean armed forces who, along with our local & international partners, are participating in the urgent rescue efforts," he tweeted. - 'Dire situation' - Tropical cyclone Idai battered central Mozambique on Friday killing at least 21 people there and cutting off more than half a million residents of the port city Beira. Even before the cyclone made landfall on Friday, heavy rains earlier in the week had already claimed 66 lives and forced 17,000 people from their homes in Mozambique, local officials said. They also affected neighbouring Malawi, where 56 people died. As the cyclone hit, Mozambique's President Filipe Nyusi appealed for emergency assistance for the victims before leaving for eSwatini. Rain, believed to be the beginning of Tropical cyclone Idai coming from central Mozambique, fell in the flooded districts of Chikwawa and Nsanje in southern Malawi, Friday "We have compatriots suffering without hope and we have to restore hope," he said on Friday as he set off on a three-day state visit to the kingdom previously known as Swaziland. But in statement Saturday his office said he was cutting short the eSwatini trip and would travel to the affected central regions on Sunday. As the cyclone approached, the Red Cross sent out more than 200 volunteers to areas most likely to be affected. "The situation is dire but we don't know the exact particulars," said Jamie LeSueur, the Red Cross's roving emergency operations manager for Africa. The crisis requires a swift response with "the full force of the humanitarian community behind the government of Mozambique," he told AFP. - South Africa rations electricity - The storm also affected southern Malawi after days of heavy rain in which 56 people died and nearly a million others were affected Beira's international airport was closed after the cyclone damaged the air traffic control tower, the navigation systems and the runways. The storm also affected power supplies to neighbouring South Africa which imports electricity from Mozambique to supplement its own production. South Africa's power utility company Eskom on Saturday introduced electricity rationing. burs-sn/pvh Alfredo Okenve, a leading rights activist in Equatorial Guinea, was arrested at Malabo's airport on Friday night A leading human rights activist in Equatorial Guinea was arrested in the capital Malabo after travelling there to receive an award for his work, his NGO and a police source said Saturday. Alfredo Okenve was arrested at Malabo airport on Friday night when he was about to board a flight to Madrid after the cancellation of an awards ceremony earlier in the day. A leading figure in the country's civil society movement, Okenve is one of the leaders of the Center for Studies and Initiatives for the Development of Equatorial Guinea (CEID-GE), which said he had been flown back home to the port city of Bata and placed under house arrest. The authorities "prevented him from flying to Spain," said Mariano Nkogo, who is also a senior figure within the NGO. He said a military plane had been chartered to fly Okenve back to Bata. "He was asked to remain at home where he is under surveillance. His passport and his mobile phone have been taken by the security forces," he told AFP. His arrest was also confirmed by a police officer at the airport and by the opposition Convergence for Social Democracy (CPDS) whose members have been previously targeted in a crackdown by President Teodoro Obiang Nguema, who has ruled the West African state for 39 years. Okenve had arrived in Malabo on Thursday, a day ahead of a ceremony at the French Institute where he was to receive the Franco-German Prize for Human Rights and the Rule of Law from French and German ambassadors. But Friday afternoon's award ceremony was cancelled after the Guinean government sent a formal note to the envoys' representatives saying it did not recognise the award, a regional diplomatic source said. "Due to the lack of transparency in the awarding of this prize, the government of Equatorial Guinea cannot recognise its validity," said the note, a copy of which was seen by AFP. The French and German embassies then postponed the ceremony. In late October, Okenve was seized and beaten by unidentified men who left him in a remote area of Bata. He then went to Madrid to seek medical care, only returning home in mid-February. He had previously been detained for several days for celebrating the 20-year anniversary of his organisation. Critics accuse 76-year-old Obiang, Africa's longest-serving leader, of the brutal repression of opponents as well as election fraud and corruption. Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika in November 2017 during a rare public appearance after suffering a stroke Tens of thousands of Algerian protesters have dismissed President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's promise not to seek a fifth term -- but what are those in power likely to do next? Bouteflika has proposed a "national conference" to carry out reforms before scheduling elections, meaning he will stay in power until a vote takes place. What do protesters want? Huge crowds marched through the Algerian capital for a fourth consecutive on March 15 calling for Bouteflika's resignation Algerians first took to the streets on February 22 to rally against Bouteflika's decision to stand for re-election, despite the ailing leader rarely being seen in public since a 2013 stroke. The president said Monday he would withdraw his candidacy, but angered protesters by de facto extending his fourth term indefinitely. Accusing 82-year-old Bouteflika of "tricks" to stay in power once his mandate ends, demonstrators rallied again on Friday to demand their president step down after two decades in power. The mobilisation was described as historic, with even more Algerians joining protests than the previous week when participation was estimated in the tens of thousands. What is the official response? Unpopular prime minister Ahmed Ouyahia was replaced by former interior minister Noureddine Bedoui (C)- a move that has failed to convince many protesters As part of the measures announced on Monday, Bouteflika ordered a government reshuffle and replaced unpopular prime minister Ahmed Ouyahia with former interior minister Noureddine Bedoui. While the removal of Ouyahia satisfied some, the promotion of Bedoui -- who as interior minister oversaw the strict ban on demonstrations in Algiers -- has failed to convince all protesters. The new premier has promised to bring technocrats into government, including "young experts, men and women". Finding technocrats willing to join a much-scorned administration, which Bedoui has pledged would be short-term, may however prove difficult. Algerians want "radical change, not a change of puppets," one protest sign read Friday. The central demand of demonstrators has remained the same: an end to Bouteflika's rule, along with that of his entourage and the political system they put in place. Will protests dwindle? Algerians celebrated on the streets after Bouteflika announced he would not seek a fifth term in office Since rallies began, authorities appear to have been playing a waiting game. But there is no sign the demonstrators are running out of steam. Algerians were traumatised by the civil war 1992 to 2002 and officials have capitalised on their fears, suggesting the regime is the only protection against a return to chaos. Abdelaziz Bouteflika, shown here in 1973, served as Algerian foreign minister for more than a decade While this has long prevented people from taking to the streets, the current protests show they are now pushing back against the all-powerful state. Algerians of all ages have brought a celebratory atmosphere to the rallies, defying the protest ban in the capital to wave their country's flag. There are concerns among some protesters that the fatigue which accompanies the holy month of Ramadan, which begins in early May, could damp down their movement. Will there be a violent crackdown? The violent repression of protests in unlikely, as police have appeared overwhelmed in the face of such vast crowds. The demonstrations have largely been peaceful, with no incidents reported in the provinces over the past three weeks. In Algiers, there have been clashes on the sidelines at the end of each Friday protest, in which some young people have hurled stones at police. Such incidents have been notably rare given the sheer size of the protests, and volunteers in Algiers have cleaned up the streets following demonstrations. There is currently no indication that authorities will seek a violent end to demonstrations, particularly given the global attention on Algeria. CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand (AP) - When the gunman advanced toward the mosque, killing those in his path, Abdul Aziz didn't hide. Instead, he picked up the first thing he could find, a credit card machine, and ran outside screaming "Come here!" Aziz, 48, is being hailed as a hero for preventing more deaths during Friday prayers at the Linwood mosque in Christchurch after leading the gunman in a cat-and-mouse chase before scaring him into speeding away in his car. But Aziz, whose four sons and dozens of others remained in the mosque while he faced off with the gunman, said he thinks it's what anyone would have done. The gunman killed 50 people after attacking two mosques in the deadliest mass shooting in New Zealand's modern history. The gunman is believed to have killed at least 41 people at the Al Noor mosque before driving about 5 kilometers (3 miles) across town and attacking the Linwood mosque, where he killed seven more people. One person died later in a hospital, and police announced Sunday that a 50th body had been found. White supremacist Brenton Tarrant, 28, has been charged with one count of murder in the slayings and a judge said Saturday that it was reasonable to assume more charges would follow. Abdul Aziz, survivor of mosque shooting speaks to Associated Press during an interview in Christchurch, New Zealand, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Aziz, 48, is being hailed as a hero for preventing more deaths during Friday prayers at the Linwood mosque in Christchurch. The gunman killed 49 people after attacking two mosques in the deadliest mass shooting in New Zealand's modern history. Seven were killed at the Linwood mosque. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian) Latef Alabi, the Linwood mosque's acting imam, said the death toll would have been far higher at the Linwood mosque if it wasn't for Aziz. Alabi said he heard a voice outside the mosque at about 1:55 p.m. and stopped the prayer he was leading and peeked out the window. He saw a guy in black military-style gear and a helmet holding a large gun, and assumed it was a police officer. Then he saw two bodies and heard the gunman yelling obscenities. "I realized this is something else. This is a killer," he said. He yelled at the congregation of more than 80 to get down. They hesitated. A shot rang out, a window shattered and a body fell, and people began to realize it was for real. "Then this brother came over. He went after him, and he managed to overpower him, and that's how we were saved," Alabi said, referring to Aziz. "Otherwise, if he managed to come into the mosque, then we would all probably be gone." Aziz said as he ran outside screaming, he was hoping to distract the attacker. He said the gunman ran back to his car to get another gun, and Aziz hurled the credit card machine at him. He said he could hear his two youngest sons, aged 11 and 5, urging him to come back inside. The gunman returned, firing. Aziz said he ran, weaving through cars parked in the driveway, which prevented the gunman from getting a clean shot. Then Aziz spotted a gun the gunman had abandoned and picked it up, pointed it and squeezed the trigger. It was empty. He said the gunman ran back to the car for a second time, likely to grab yet another weapon. "He gets into his car and I just got the gun and threw it on his window like an arrow and blasted his window," he said. The windshield shattered: "That's why he got scared." He said the gunman was cursing at him, yelling that he was going to kill them all. But he drove away and Aziz said he chased the car down the street to a red light, before it made a U-turn and sped away. Online videos indicate police officers managed to force the car from the road and drag out the suspect soon after. Originally from Kabul, Afghanistan, Aziz said he left as a refugee when he was a boy and lived for more than 25 years in Australia before moving to New Zealand a couple of years ago. "I've been to a lot of countries and this is one of the beautiful ones," he said. And, he always thought, a peaceful one as well. Aziz said he didn't feel fear or much of anything when facing the gunman. It was like he was on autopilot. And he believes that God, that Allah, didn't think it was his time to die. The abuse of democracy has been an old characteristic of Pakistan and terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) are a direct fall-out result of this abuse of democracy. A look at the data shows that the violation of democratic principles in Pakistan has been directly proportionate to terrorist attacks on Indian soil. Branded as hybrid democracy in the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU)s latest Democracy Index of 2018, Pakistan's democracy index deepened 10% in the last five year whereas terrorist attacks spiked 177%. The death toll of Indian security forces rises 94% in the same period Pakistan, which stands at 112th position globally in this study, stood at 108th place five years back in 2014. The EIU index tracked democracy in 165 countries, including India. In 2014, Pakistans score was 4.64 on a scale of 10 but has now fallen to 4.17. In 2018, after a fiercely contested election, the ruling Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz), or PML (N), lost power to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), led by Imran Khan. The polls took a sour turn when the defeated parties alleged widespread election rigging, the EIU observed in its report. The EIU further added that Nawaz Sharif, honorary leader of the PML(N), was disqualified as Prime Minister by a Supreme Court ruling in July 2017 on corruption charges. The charges against Sharif were made after the release of the Panama Papers. From religion to violence, almost all discussions in Pakistan centre around Kashmir. The undeclared war in Kashmir launched by Pakistan was an easy sell to the country as a 'jihad'. And, as a collateral to this, in the last 30 years, more than 5,000 lives of security personnel have been lost in Jammu and Kashmir. The latest such large-scale dastardly attack was when the Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) attacked a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in J&Ks Pulwama district on February 14, killing 40 jawans in one go. JeM even now operates openly from Pakistani soil. Pakistan has openly allowed terrorist groups to flourish on its soil. (Source: Reuters) Security analysts say Pakistan pumps in a lot of money to fund terrorism in Kashmir. On 11 February, 2016, in an interview to India Today, Pakistans former president Pervez Musharraf said the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) trains Lashkar-e-Taiba and JeM terrorists and terror attacks in India would not stop until New Delhi addresses the core issue of Kashmir. He further said, Kashmir continues to arouse sentiments in Pakistan; anyone who is fighting in Kashmir is a freedom fighter. When India accused Pakistan of launching terror attacks in J&K and approached the United Nations to blacklist JeM chief Masood Azhar, China used its veto power in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to block the move. Interestingly, China has a huge economic role to play in Pakistan even as its internal democracy flounders. What is Democracy Index? The Democracy Index is a snapshot analysis of the state of democracy in 165 countries as conducted by the EIU. In 2018, a total of 42 countries experienced a decline in their scores compared with 2017 Pakistan is one of them. The index is based on five categories electoral process and pluralism, civil liberties, the functioning of government, political participation and the political culture of the country. Also read: Great Wall of India: How we can punish China for its Masood Azhar slight, and its attempt to interfere in our elections American Consumer News, LLC dba MarketBeat 2010-2021. All rights reserved. 326 E 8th St #105, Sioux Falls, SD 57103 | U.S. Based Support Team at [email protected] | (844) 978-6257 MarketBeat does not provide personalized financial advice and does not issue recommendations or offers to buy stock or sell any security. Our Accessibility Statement | Terms of Service | Do Not Sell My Information 2021 Market data provided is at least 10-minutes delayed and hosted by Barchart Solutions. 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Ltd., Latitude Australia Secured Personal Loans Trust, Leasing Verwaltungsgesellschaft Waltersdorf mbH, Leonardo III Initial GP Limited, Lindsell Finance Limited, London Industrial Leasing Limited, MEF I Manager S. a r.l., MEF I Manager S. a r.l., MHL Reinsurance Ltd., MIT Holdings Inc., MIT Holdings Inc., MPP Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH, Maher Terminals Holdings (Toronto) Limited, Morgan Grenfell & Company, MortgageIT, MortgageIT Inc., MortgageIT Inc., MortgageIT Securities Corp., Motion Picture Productions One GmbH & Co. KG, NCW Holding Inc., Navegator - SGFTC S.A., Navegator - SGFTC S.A., New 87 Leonard LLC, Nordwestdeutscher Wohnungsbautrager Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, OOO "Deutsche Bank TechCentre", OOO "Deutsche Bank", OPB Verwaltungs- und Beteiligungs-GmbH, OPB Verwaltungs- und Treuhand GmbH, OPB-Holding GmbH, OPB-Nona GmbH, OPB-Oktava GmbH, OPB-Quarta GmbH, OPB-Quinta GmbH, OPB-Septima GmbH, OPPENHEIM Capital Advisory GmbH, OPPENHEIM Flottenfonds V GmbH & Co. KG, OPPENHEIM PRIVATE EQUITY Manager GmbH, OPPENHEIM PRIVATE EQUITY Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH, OPS Nominees Pty Limited, OVT Trust 1 GmbH, OVV Beteiligungs GmbH, Opal Funds (Ireland) Public Limited Company, PADUS Grundstucks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH, PARTS Funding LLC., PB Factoring GmbH, PB Firmenkunden AG, PB International S.A., PB Spezial-Investmentaktiengesellschaft mit Teilgesellschaftsvermogen, PBC Banking Services GmbH, PCC Services GmbH der Deutschen Bank, PT Deutsche Sekuritas Indonesia, PT. Deutsche Verdhana Sekuritas Indonesia, Pan Australian Nominees Pty Ltd, Peruda Leasing Limited, Plantation Bay Inc., Plantation Bay Inc., Postbank Akademie und Service GmbH, Postbank Beteiligungen GmbH, Postbank Direkt GmbH, Postbank Filialvertrieb AG, Postbank Finanzberatung AG, Postbank Immobilien GmbH, Postbank Immobilien und Baumanagement GmbH, Postbank Immobilien und Baumanagement GmbH & Co. Objekt Leipzig KG, Postbank Leasing GmbH, Postbank Service GmbH, Postbank Systems AG, QR Tower 2 LLC, Quantiguous, R.B.M. Nominees Pty Ltd, REO Properties Corporation, RREEF, RREEF America L.L.C., RREEF China REIT Management Limited, RREEF European Value Added I (G.P.) Limited, RREEF Fund Holding Co., RREEF India Advisors Private Limited, RREEF Management L.L.C., RTS Nominees Pty Limited, Reference Capital Investments Limited, RoPro U.S. Holding Inc., RoPro U.S. Holding Inc., Route 28 Receivables LLC, Route 28 Receivables LLC, SAB Real Estate Verwaltungs GmbH, SAGITA Grundstucks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH, SAPIO Grundstucks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH, SCUDO Grundstucks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH i.L., SEDO Grundstucks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH i.L., SENA Grundstucks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH & Co. Objekt Kamenz KG, SIFA Grundstucks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH, SOLIDO Grundstucks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH, SP Mortgage Trust, SPINO Grundstucks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH i.L., SPV I Sociedad Anonima Cerrada, SPV II Sociedad Anonima Cerrada, STATOR Heizkraftwerk Frankfurt (Oder) Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH, Sal. Oppenheim, Sal. Oppenheim Alternative Investments GmbH, Sal. Oppenheim jr. & Cie. AG & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien, Sal. Oppenheim jr. & Cie. Beteiligungs GmbH, Sal. Oppenheim jr. & Cie. Komplementar AG, Sechste Salomon Beteiligungs- und Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH, Sechste Salomon Beteiligungs- und Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH i.L., Service Company Four Limited, Sharps SP I LLC, Singer Island Tower Suite LLC, Somkid Immobiliare S.r.l., Stelvio Immobiliare S.r.l., Structured Finance Americas LLC, Structured Finance Americas LLC, Swabia 1. Vermogensbesitz-GmbH, Suddeutsche Vermogensverwaltung Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, TAKIR Grundstucks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH, TELO Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH, TEMATIS Grundstucks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH i.L., TERRUS Grundstucks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH i.L., TESATUR Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH & Co. Objekt Halle I KG i.L., TESATUR Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH & Co. Objekt Nordhausen I KG i.L., TOSSA Grundstucks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH, TRIPLA Grundstucks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH, TRS Aria LLC, TRS Leda LLC, TRS Maple II LTD, TRS Oak II LTD, TRS SVCO LLC, TRS Scorpio LLC, TRS Tupelo II LTD, TRS Venor LLC, TRS Walnut II LTD, Tagus - Sociedade de Titularizacao de Creditos S.A., Tasfiye Halinde Deutsche Securities Menkul Degerler A.S., Tempurrite Leasing Limited, Thai Asset Enforcement and Recovery Asset Management Company Limited, Tianjin Deutsche AM Fund Management Co. Ltd., Treuinvest Service GmbH, Triplereason Limited, UKE Beteiligungs-GmbH, UKE Grundstucksgesellschaft mbH, UKE s.r.o., Ullmann - Esch Grundstucksgesellschaft Kirchnerstrae GbR, Ullmann - Esch Grundstucksverwaltungsgesellschaft Disternich GbR, Ullmann Ullmann Krockow Krockow Esch GbR, VCJ Lease S.a r.l., Vesta Real Estate S.r.l., VOB-ZVD Processing GmbH, WEPLA Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH, WEPLABeteiligungsgesellschaftmbH, Wealthspur Investment Ltd., Whale Holdings S.a r.l., World Trading (Delaware) Inc., World Trading(Delaware)Inc., Zumirez Drive LLC, db PBC, and norisbank GmbH. 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 American Water Works Co., Inc. engages in the provision of complementary water and wastewater services. It operates through the following segments: Regulated Businesses; Market-Based Businesses; and Other. The Regulated Businesses segment provides water and wastewater services to customers. The Market-Based Businesses segment is responsible for Military Services Group, Contract Operations Group, Homeowner Services Group, and Keystone Operations. The Other segment includes corporate costs that are not allocated to the Company's operating segments, eliminations of inter-segment transactions, fair value adjustments and associated income and deductions related to the acquisitions that have not been allocated to the operating segments for evaluation of performance and allocation of resource purposes. The company was founded in 1886 and is headquartered in Camden, NJ. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Bristol-Myers Squibb: 1096271 B.C. ULC, 345 Park LLC, A.G. Medical Services P.A., AHI Investment LLC, AbVitro LLC, Abraxis BioScience Australia Pty Ltd., Abraxis BioScience Inc., Abraxis BioScience International Holding Company Inc., Abraxis BioScience LLC, Abraxis BioScience Puerto Rico LLC, Acetylon Pharmaceuticals Inc., Adnexus, Adnexus a Bristol-Myers Squibb R&D Company, Allard Labs Acquisition G.P., Amira Pharmaceuticals, Amira Pharmaceuticals Inc., Amylin Pharmaceuticals, Apothecon LLC, B-MS Generx Unlimited Company, BMS Benelux Holdings B.V., BMS Bermuda Nominees L.L.C., BMS Data Acquisition Company LLC, BMS Forex Company, BMS Holdings Sarl, BMS Holdings Spain S.L., BMS International Insurance Designated Activity Company, BMS Investco SAS, BMS Korea Holdings L.L.C., BMS Latin American Nominees L.L.C., BMS Luxembourg Partners L.L.C., BMS Omega Bermuda Holdings Finance Ltd., BMS Pharmaceutical Korea Limited, BMS Pharmaceuticals Germany Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals International Holdings Netherlands B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Korea Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Mexico Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Netherlands Holdings B.V., BMS Real Estate LLC, BMS Spain Investments LLC, BMS Strategic Portfolio Investments Holdings Inc., Blisa Acquisition G.P., Bristol (Iran) S.A., Bristol Iran Private Company Limited, Bristol Laboratories Inc., Bristol Laboratories International S.A., Bristol Laboratories Medical Information Systems Inc., Bristol-Myers (Andes) L.L.C., Bristol-Myers (Private) Limited, Bristol-Myers Middle East S.A.L., Bristol-Myers Overseas Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb (China) Investment Co. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (China) Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (Israel) Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (NZ) Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb (Proprietary) Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (Singapore) Pte. Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb (Taiwan) Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (West Indies) Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb A.E., Bristol-Myers Squibb Aktiebolag, Bristol-Myers Squibb Argentina S. R. L., Bristol-Myers Squibb Australia Pty. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Axia Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb B.V., Bristol-Myers Squibb Belgium S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb Business Services Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Canada Co., Bristol-Myers Squibb Canada International Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Delta Company Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Denmark Filial of Bristol-Myers Squibb AB, Bristol-Myers Squibb EMEA Sarl, Bristol-Myers Squibb Egypt LLC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Epsilon Holdings Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Farmaceutica Ltda., Bristol-Myers Squibb Farmaceutica Portuguesa S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb GesmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb GmbH & Co. KGaA, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holding Germany GmbH & Co. KG, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings 2002 Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Germany Verwaltungs GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Ireland Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Pharma Ltd. Liability Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Ilaclari Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb India Pvt. Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb International Company Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb International Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb Investco L.L.C., Bristol-Myers Squibb K.K., Bristol-Myers Squibb Kft., Bristol-Myers Squibb Luxembourg International S.C.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Bristol-Myers Squibb MEA GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb Manufacturing Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Marketing Services S.R.L., Bristol-Myers Squibb Middle East & Africa FZ-LLC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Norway Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Nutricionales de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Bristol-Myers Squibb Peru S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma (HK) Ltd, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma (Thailand) Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma EEIG, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma Holding Company LLC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma Ventures Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Polska Sp. z o.o., Bristol-Myers Squibb Products SA, Bristol-Myers Squibb Puerto Rico Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb Puerto Rico/Sanofi Pharmaceutical Partnership Puerto Rico, Bristol-Myers Squibb Romania S.R.L., Bristol-Myers Squibb S.A.U., Bristol-Myers Squibb S.r.l., Bristol-Myers Squibb SA, Bristol-Myers Squibb Sanofi Pharmaceuticals Holding Partnership, Bristol-Myers Squibb Sarl, Bristol-Myers Squibb Service Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Services Sp. z o.o., Bristol-Myers Squibb Spol. s r.o., Bristol-Myers Squibb Theta Finance Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Trustees Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Verwaltungs GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb de Colombia S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb de Costa Rica Sociedad Anonima, Bristol-Myers Squibb de Guatemala S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Bristol-Myers Squibb/Astrazeneca EEIG, Bristol-Myers Squibb/Pfizer EEIG, Bristol-Myers Squibb/Sanofi Pharmaceuticals Partnership, Bristol-Myers de Venezuela S.C.A., CHT I LLC, CHT II LLC, CHT III LLC, CHT IV LLC, CR Finance Company LLC, Cardioxyl Pharmaceuticals, Cardioxyl Pharmaceuticals Inc., Celem LLC, Celem Ltd., Celgene, Celgene A.B., Celgene AS, Celgene Ab (Finland), Celgene Alpine Investment Co. II LLC, Celgene Alpine Investment Co. III LLC, Celgene Alpine Investment Co. LLC, Celgene ApS, Celgene B.V., Celgene BVBA, Celgene Brasil Produtos Farmaceuticos Ltda., Celgene CAR LLC, Celgene CAR Ltd., Celgene Chemicals Sarl, Celgene China Holdings LLC, Celgene Co., Celgene Corporation, Celgene Distribution B.V., Celgene EngMab GmbH, Celgene Europe B.V., Celgene Europe Limited, Celgene European Investment Company LLC, Celgene Financing Company LLC, Celgene Global Holdings Sarl, Celgene GmbH [Austria], Celgene GmbH [Germany], Celgene GmbH [Switzerland], Celgene Holdings East Corporation, Celgene Holdings II Sarl, Celgene Holdings III Sarl, Celgene Ilac Pazarlama ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Celgene Inc., Celgene International Holdings Corporation, Celgene International II Sarl, Celgene International III Sarl, Celgene International Inc., Celgene International Sarl, Celgene K.K., Celgene Kft., Celgene Limited [Hong Kong], Celgene Limited [Ireland], Celgene Limited [New Zealand], Celgene Limited [Taiwan], Celgene Limited [UK], Celgene Logistics Sarl, Celgene Ltd, Celgene Luxembourg Sarl, Celgene Management Sarl, Celgene NJ Investment Co, Celgene Netherlands B.V., Celgene Netherlands Investment B.V., Celgene Pharmaceutical (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Celgene Pte. Ltd., Celgene Pty Ltd, Celgene Puerto Rico Distribution LLC, Celgene Quanticel Research Inc, Celgene R&D Sarl, Celgene RIVOT LLC, Celgene RIVOT Ltd., Celgene RIVOT SRL, Celgene Receptos Limited, Celgene Receptos Sarl, Celgene Research Incubator At Summit West LLC, Celgene Research S.L.U., Celgene Research and Development Company LLC, Celgene Research and Development I ULC, Celgene Research and Development II LLC, Celgene Research and Investment Company II LLC, Celgene S. de R.L. de C.V., Celgene S.L.U., Celgene S.R.L., Celgene SAS, Celgene Sarl AU, Celgene Sdn Bhd, Celgene Services Sarl, Celgene Sociedade Unipessoal Lda, Celgene Sp. Z.o.o., Celgene Sro [Czech Republic], Celgene Summit Investment Co, Celgene Switzerland Holding Sarl, Celgene Switzerland II LLC, Celgene Switzerland Investment Sarl, Celgene Switzerland LLC, Celgene Switzerland Sarl, Celgene Tri A Holdings Ltd., Celgene Tri Sarl, Celgene UK Distribution Limited, Celgene UK Holdings Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing II Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing III Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing Limited, Celgene d.o.o., Celgene sro [Slovakia], Celmed LLC, Celmed Ltd., ConvaTec Divestiture, Cormorant Pharmaceuticals, Cormorant Pharmaceuticals AB, Crosp Ltd., Delinia Inc., Deuteria Pharmaceuticals Inc., DuPont Pharmaceuticals, E. R. Squibb & Sons Inter-American Corporation, E. R. Squibb & Sons L.L.C., E. R. Squibb & Sons Limited, EWI Corporation, EngMab Sarl, F-star Alpha, FermaVir Pharmaceuticals L.L.C., FermaVir Research L.L.C., Flexus Biosciences, Flexus Biosciences Inc., Forbius, Galecto Biotech, GenPharm International L.L.C., Gloucester Pharmaceuticals LLC, Grove Insurance Company Ltd., Heyden Farmaceutica Portuguesa Limitada, IFM Therapeutics, Impact Biomedicines Inc., Inhibitex, Inhibitex L.L.C., Innate Tumor Immunity Inc., JuMP Holdings LLC, Juno Therapeutics GmbH, Juno Therapeutics Inc., Kosan Biosciences, Kosan Biosciences Incorporated, Linson Investments Limited, Mead Johnson (Manufacturing) Jamaica Limited, Mead Johnson Jamaica Ltd., Medarex, Morris Avenue Investment II LLC, Morris Avenue Investment LLC, MyoKardia, O.o.o. Bristol-Myers Squibb, Oy Bristol-Myers Squibb (Finland) AB, Padlock Therapeutics, Padlock Therapeutics Inc., Pharmion LLC, Princeton Pharmaceutical Products Inc., Receptos LLC, Receptos Services LLC, RedoxTherapies Inc., Route 22 Real Estate Holding Corporation, SPV A Holdings ULC, Seamair Insurance DAC, Signal Pharmaceuticals LLC, Sino-American Shanghai Squibb Pharmaceuticals Limited, Societe Francaise de Complements Alimentaires(S.O.F.C.A.), Squibb Middle East S.A., Summit West Celgene LLC, Swords Laboratories, VentiRx Pharmaceuticals Inc., Westwood-Intrafin SA, Westwood-Squibb Pharmaceuticals Inc., X-Body Inc., ZymoGenetics, ZymoGenetics Inc., ZymoGenetics LLC, ZymoGenetics Paymaster LLC, iPierian, and iPierian Inc.. Swiss Re AG is a wholesale provider of reinsurance, insurance and other insurance-based forms of risk transfer. The Company operates in four segments: Property&Casualty Reinsurance, Life&Health Reinsurance, Corporate Solutions and Life Capital. Its Reinsurance Unit provides premiums and fee income through Property&Casualty and Life&Health segments. Its Corporate Solutions segment is engaged in serving mid-sized and large corporations, with product offerings ranging from traditional property and casualty insurance to customized solutions. Its Admin Re segment provides risk and capital management solutions by which the Company acquires closed books of in-force life and health insurance business, entire lines of business, or the entire capital stock of life insurance companies. Its open and closed life insurance books, including Admin Re, are managed under a unit called Life Capital. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Avery Dennison: ADC PHILIPPINES INC., ADESPAN S.R.L., ADHIPRESS BANGLADESH LTD., AVERY CORP., AVERY DE MEXICO SRL DE CV, AVERY DENNISON (ASIA) HOLDINGS LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON (CHANGZHOU) FILMS TECHNOLOGY CO. LTD, AVERY DENNISON (CHINA) COMPANY LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON (FUZHOU) CONVERTED PRODUCTS LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON (GUANGZHOU) CO. LTD., AVERY DENNISON (GUANGZHOU) CONVERTED PRODUCTS LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON (GUANGZHOU) INTELLIGENT LABELS CO. LTD., AVERY DENNISON (HONG KONG) LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON (INDIA) PRIVATE LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON (IRELAND) LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON (KENYA) PRIVATE LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON (KUNSHAN) COMPANY LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON (MALAYSIA) SDN. BHD., AVERY DENNISON (QINGDAO) CONVERTED PRODUCTS LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON (SUZHOU) CO. LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON (THAILAND) LTD., AVERY DENNISON (VIETNAM) LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON AUSTRALIA GROUP HOLDINGS PTY LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON AUSTRALIA INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS PTY LTD., AVERY DENNISON AUSTRALIA PTY LTD., AVERY DENNISON BELGIE BVBA, AVERY DENNISON BELGIUM MANAGEMENT SERVICES SPRL, AVERY DENNISON BENELUX BVBA, AVERY DENNISON BV, AVERY DENNISON C.A., AVERY DENNISON CANADA CORPORATION, AVERY DENNISON CENTRAL EUROPE GMBH, AVERY DENNISON CHILE S.A., AVERY DENNISON COLOMBIA S. A. S., AVERY DENNISON COMMERCIAL EL SALVADOR S.A. DE C.V., AVERY DENNISON CONVERTED PRODUCTS DE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., AVERY DENNISON CONVERTED PRODUCTS EL SALVADOR S. A. DE C. V., AVERY DENNISON DE ARGENTINA S.R.L., AVERY DENNISON DO BRASIL LTDA., AVERY DENNISON DOMINICAN REPUBLIC S.R.L., AVERY DENNISON EGYPT LLC, AVERY DENNISON ETIKET TICARET LIMITED SIRKETI, AVERY DENNISON EUROPE HOLDING (DEUTSCHLAND) GMBH & CO KG, AVERY DENNISON FINANCE GERMANY GMBH, AVERY DENNISON G HOLDINGS I LLC, AVERY DENNISON G HOLDINGS III LLC, AVERY DENNISON G INVESTMENTS III LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON G INVESTMENTS V LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON GROUP DANMARK APS, AVERY DENNISON GROUP SINGAPORE PTE LTD, AVERY DENNISON GULF FZCO, AVERY DENNISON HOLDING & FINANCE THE NETHERLANDS BV, AVERY DENNISON HOLDING FRANCE, AVERY DENNISON HOLDING GMBH, AVERY DENNISON HOLDING LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON HOLDING LUXEMBOURG S. A. R. L., AVERY DENNISON HOLDINGS LLC, AVERY DENNISON HONG KONG B.V., AVERY DENNISON HONG KONG HOLDING I B.V., AVERY DENNISON IBERICA S.A., AVERY DENNISON INNOVATIONS LLC, AVERY DENNISON INTELLIGENT HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS LLC, AVERY DENNISON INTELLIGENT LABELS EUROPE S.R.L., AVERY DENNISON INTELLIGENT LABELS HK LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON INVESTMENT LUXEMBOURG II SARL, AVERY DENNISON INVESTMENTS LUXEMBOURG III SARL, AVERY DENNISON INVESTMENTS LUXEMBOURG IV SARL, AVERY DENNISON ISRAEL LTD., AVERY DENNISON ITALIA S.R.L., AVERY DENNISON JAPAN KK, AVERY DENNISON JAPAN MATERIALS COMPANY LTD., AVERY DENNISON KOREA LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON LABEL LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON LANKA (PRIVATE) LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON LUXEMBOURG S.A.R.L., AVERY DENNISON LUXEMBOURG SALES SARL, AVERY DENNISON MANAGEMENT GMBH, AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS BELGIUM SPRL, AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS EUROPE B.V., AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS EUROPE GMBH, AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS FRANCE S.A.R.L., AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS GMBH, AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS IRELAND LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS NEDERLAND BV, AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS NEW ZEALAND LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS PTY LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS ROM SRL, AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS RUSSIA LLC, AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS SALES BELGIUM SPRL, AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS SALES FRANCE S. A. S., AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS SALES GERMANY GMBH, AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS SDN BHD, AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS U.K. LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS UKRAINE LLC, AVERY DENNISON MAURITIUS LTD., AVERY DENNISON MEDICAL LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON MOROCCO SARL, AVERY DENNISON NETHERLANDS INVESTMENT I BV, AVERY DENNISON NETHERLANDS INVESTMENT II B. V., AVERY DENNISON NETHERLANDS INVESTMENT III BV, AVERY DENNISON NETHERLANDS INVESTMENT VII B.V., AVERY DENNISON NETHERLANDS INVESTMENT VIII BV, AVERY DENNISON NETHERLANDS INVESTMENT X BV, AVERY DENNISON NETHERLANDS INVESTMENT XI COOPERATIEF U.A., AVERY DENNISON NETHERLANDS INVESTMENT XII BV, AVERY DENNISON NORDIC APS, AVERY DENNISON NTP A. S., AVERY DENNISON OFFICE PRODUCTS COMPANY, AVERY DENNISON OFFICE PRODUCTS HOLDINGS COMPANY, AVERY DENNISON OFFICE PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING U.K. LTD., AVERY DENNISON OVERSEAS CORPORATION, AVERY DENNISON PENSION TRUSTEE LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON PERU S. R. L., AVERY DENNISON POLSKA SP. Z O.O., AVERY DENNISON PRAHA SPOL. S R. O., AVERY DENNISON R.I.S. FRANCE S. A. S., AVERY DENNISON R.I.S. IBERIA S.L., AVERY DENNISON R.I.S. ITALIA S.R.L., AVERY DENNISON RBIS (CAMBODIA) CO. LTD, AVERY DENNISON RBIS (CAMBODIA) TRADING CO. LTD, AVERY DENNISON RBIS PTY LTD, AVERY DENNISON RETAIL INFORMATION SERVICES (PTY) LTD, AVERY DENNISON RETAIL INFORMATION SERVICES COLOMBIA S. A. S., AVERY DENNISON RETAIL INFORMATION SERVICES DE MEXICO S. A. DE C.V., AVERY DENNISON RETAIL INFORMATION SERVICES EL SALVADOR LTDA. DE C. V., AVERY DENNISON RETAIL INFORMATION SERVICES GUATEMALA S. A., AVERY DENNISON RETAIL INFORMATION SERVICES HONDURAS S. DE R.L., AVERY DENNISON RETAIL INFORMATION SERVICES LLC, AVERY DENNISON RETAIL INFORMATION SERVICES PERU SAC, AVERY DENNISON RETAIL INFORMATION SERVICES UK LTD., AVERY DENNISON RFID COMPANY, AVERY DENNISON RIS KOREA LTD., AVERY DENNISON RIS TAIWAN LTD., AVERY DENNISON RIS VIETNAM CO. LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON S.A. DE C.V., AVERY DENNISON S.R.L., AVERY DENNISON SCANDINAVIA AB, AVERY DENNISON SCANDINAVIA APS, AVERY DENNISON SECURITY PRINTING EUROPE APS, AVERY DENNISON SHARED SERVICES INC., AVERY DENNISON SINGAPORE (PTE) LTD., AVERY DENNISON SOUTH AFRICA (PROPRIETARY) LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON SUPPORT SERVICES, AVERY DENNISON SYSTEMES D'ETIQUETAGE FRANCE S.A.S., AVERY DENNISON TEKSTIL URUNLERI SANAYI VE TICARET LIMITED SIRKETI, AVERY DENNISON TRADING COMPANY LTD, AVERY DENNISON TREASURY MANAGEMENT BV, AVERY DENNISON U.K. II LIMITED, AVERY DENNISON U.K. LIMITED, AVERY GRAPHIC SYSTEMS INC., AVERY LLC, AVERY OFFICE PRODUCTS PUERTO RICO L.L.C., AVERY PACIFIC LLC, AVERY PROPERTIES PTY. LIMITED, AWESOME PROFITS LTD, BEST COURAGE INTERNATIONAL LIMITED, CHOICE CLEVER PROFITS LTD, CREATERO GMBH, DENNISON INTERNATIONAL COMPANY, DENNISON MANUFACTURING COMPANY, DM Label Group, Dunsirn Industries, EUSTON FINANCIAL LIMITED, EVERGREEN HOLDING SARL, EVERGREEN HOLDINGS V LLC, Finesse Medical, HANITA COATINGS (KUNSHAN) CO. LTD, HANITA COATINGS EUROPE B.V., HANITA COATINGS USA LLC, HANITA EUROPA GMBH, HEBEI YONGLE TAPE CO. LTD., Hanita Coatings, INK MILL LLC, JAC ASIA PACIFIC SDN BHD, JAC CARIBE C.S.Z., JAC DO BRASIL - LOCACAO DE EQUIPAMENTOS INDUSTRIAIS LTDA, JACKSTADT FRANCE S.N.C., JDC Solutions, JINTEX LIMITED, Jackstadt GmbH, L&E AMERICAS SERVICIOS S. A. DE C.V., L&E Packaging, MACTAC ASIA-PACIFIC SELF-ADHESIVE PRODUCTS PTE LTD, MACtac Europe S.A., MARKSTAR INTERNATIONAL LIMITED, MODERN MARK INTERNATIONAL LIMITED, NINGBO AVERY DENNISON SHENZHOU EMBELLISHMENT CO. LTD., P. T. PACIFIC LABEL INDONESIA, P. T. PAXAR INDONESIA, PAXAR (CHINA) LTD., PAXAR B.V., PAXAR BANGLADESH LIMITED, PAXAR CANADA CORPORATION, PAXAR CORPORATION, PAXAR DE EL SALVADOR S. A. DE C. V., PAXAR DE GUATEMALA S. A., PAXAR DE MEXICO S. A. DE C. V., PAXAR DO BRASIL LTDA, PAXAR FAR EAST LIMITED, PAXAR PACKAGING (GUANGZHOU) LTD., PAXAR PAKISTAN (PRIVATE) LIMITED, PLYMOUTH YONGLE TAPE (SHANGHAI) CO. LTD, PT AVERY DENNISON INDONESIA, PT AVERY DENNISON PACKAGING INDONESIA, RVL AMERICAS S DE R.L. DE C.V., RVL CENTRAL AMERICA S. A., RVL PACKAGING FAR EAST LIMITED, RVL Packaging Inc., RVL SERVICE S. DE R. L. DE C. V., Rinke Etiketten GmbH, SECURITY PRINTING DIVISION INC., SKILLFIELD INVESTMENTS LIMITED, Stimsonite Corp, TIGER EIGHT GROUP LIMITED, WORLDWIDE RISK INSURANCE INC., YONGLE TAPE LTD, and Yongle Tape Co. The following companies are subsidiares of Accenture: (Accenture Endustriyel Yazlm Cozumleri Limited Sirketi), 2nd Road, ?What If!, ?What If! China Holdings Limited, ?What If! Holdings Limited, ?What If! Limited, ACN Consulting Co Ltd, AD.Dialeto (Digital Agency acquired by Accenture), AGS Business and Technology Services Limited, AIG Shared Services Business Processing Inc, ASM Research Inc., ASM Research LLC, ATAN, Accenture (Botswana) (Proprietary) Limited, Accenture (China) Co. Ltd., Accenture (Shenzhen) Technology Co. Ltd., Accenture (South Africa) Pty Ltd, Accenture (UK) Limited, Accenture 2 Business Process Services S.A., Accenture 2 LLC, Accenture A/S, Accenture AB, Accenture AG, Accenture AS, Accenture Africa Pty Ltd, Accenture Agencia Interativa Ltda, Accenture Australia Holding B.V., Accenture Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, Accenture Australia Pty Ltd, Accenture B.V., Accenture BPM Operations Support Services S.A., Accenture BPM S.C.R.L., Accenture BPS Services S.p. z o.o., Accenture Branch Holdings B.V., Accenture Bulgaria EOOD, Accenture Business Services for Utilities Inc, Accenture Business Services of British Columbia Limited Partnership, Accenture Business and Technology Services LLC, Accenture C.A., Accenture Canada Holdings Inc, Accenture Capital Designated Activity Company, Accenture Capital Inc, Accenture Central Europe B.V., Accenture Chile Asesorias y Servicios Ltda, Accenture Cloud Services GmbH, Accenture Cloud Software Solutions Limited, Accenture Cloud Solutions Australia Pty Ltd, Accenture Cloud Solutions LLC, Accenture Cloud Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Co Ltd, Accenture Co. Ltd, Accenture Communications Infrastructure Solutions Ltd, Accenture Company Ltd, Accenture Consulting Pty Ltd, Accenture Consulting Services Ltd Tanzania, Accenture Consultores de Gestao S.A., Accenture Consultoria de Industria e Consumo Ltda, Accenture Consultoria de Recursos Naturais Ltda, Accenture Credit Services LLC, Accenture Customer Services Distribution SASU, Accenture Customer Services Ltd, Accenture Danismanlik Limited Sirketi, Accenture Defined Benefit Pension Plan Trustees Limited, Accenture Defined Contribution Pension Plan Trustees Limited, Accenture Delivery Poland S.p. z o.o., Accenture Dienstleistungen GmbH, Accenture Digital Holdings GmbH, Accenture East Africa Limited, Accenture Ecuador S.A., Accenture Egypt LLC, Accenture Enterprise Development (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Accenture Federal Services LLC, Accenture Finance II Limited, Accenture Finance Limited, Accenture Finance and Accounting BPO Services S.p.A., Accenture Finance and Accounting Services S.r.l., Accenture Financial Advanced Solution & Technology S.r.l., Accenture Flex LLC, Accenture GP LLC, Accenture Global Capital Designated Activity Company, Accenture Global Engagements Limited, Accenture Global Holdings Limited, Accenture Global Services Limited, Accenture Global Solutions Limited, Accenture GmbH, Accenture HR Services S.p.A., Accenture Healthcare Processing Inc, Accenture Holding Brasil Ltda, Accenture Holding GmbH & Co. KG, Accenture Holdings (Iberia) S.L., Accenture Holdings B.V., Accenture Holdings France SASU, Accenture Hungary Holdings Kft, Accenture Inc, Accenture Industrial Software Limited Liability Company, Accenture Industrial Software Solutions Kft, Accenture Industrial Software Solutions SA, Accenture Insurance Services B.V., Accenture Insurance Services LLC, Accenture International B.V., Accenture International LLC, Accenture International Limited, Accenture Japan Ltd, Accenture Korea B.V., Accenture LLC, Accenture LLP, Accenture Lanka (Private) Ltd, Accenture Limited, Accenture Lithuania UAB, Accenture Ltd, Accenture Ltda, Accenture Maghreb S.a.r.l., Accenture Managed Services SRL, Accenture Management GmbH, Accenture Marketing Services LLC, Accenture Marketing Services Limited, Accenture Middle East B.V., Accenture Minority I B.V., Accenture Mozambique Limitada, Accenture Mzansi Pty Ltd, Accenture NV/SA, Accenture NZ Limited, Accenture Nova Scotia Unlimited Liability Co., Accenture OOO, Accenture Operations GmbH, Accenture Operations S.p. z o.o., Accenture Operations Services Private Limited, Accenture Operations Services Sdn Bhd, Accenture Outsourcing S.r.l., Accenture Outsourcing Services S.A., Accenture Oy, Accenture Panama Inc, Accenture Participations B.V., Accenture Participations II Limited, Accenture Peru SRL, Accenture Post Trade Processing SASU, Accenture Post-Trade Processing Limited, Accenture Process (Mauritius) Ltd, Accenture Pte Ltd, Accenture Puerto Rico LLC, Accenture Qiyun Technology (Hangzhou) Co. Ltd, Accenture S.C., Accenture S.L., Accenture S.R.L., Accenture S.p. z o.o., Accenture S.p.A., Accenture SASU, Accenture SG Services Pte Ltd, Accenture SRL, Accenture Saudi Arabia Limited, Accenture Sdn Bhd, Accenture Service Center SRL, Accenture Services (Mauritius) Ltd, Accenture Services AB, Accenture Services AG, Accenture Services AS, Accenture Services GmbH, Accenture Services Morocco SA, Accenture Services Oy, Accenture Services Pty Ltd, Accenture Services S.p. z o.o., Accenture Services SRL, Accenture Services and Technology S.r.l., Accenture Services s.r.o., Accenture Single Member S.A. Organization Information Technology & Business Development, Accenture Solutions Co. Ltd, Accenture Solutions Private Limited, Accenture Solutions Pte Ltd, Accenture Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Solutions S.p. z o.o, Accenture Solutions Sdn Bhd, Accenture State Healthcare Services LLC, Accenture Sub II Inc, Accenture Sub III Inc, Accenture Sub LLC, Accenture Systems Integration Limited, Accenture Sarl, Accenture Tanacsado Kolatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Accenture Technology Solutions (Dalian) Co. Ltd., Accenture Technology Solutions (HK) Co. Ltd., Accenture Technology Solutions (Thailand) Co. Ltd, Accenture Technology Solutions - Solucoes Informaticas Integradas S.A., Accenture Technology Solutions GmbH, Accenture Technology Solutions Oy, Accenture Technology Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Technology Solutions S.A. de C.V., Accenture Technology Solutions S.r.l., Accenture Technology Solutions SASU, Accenture Technology Solutions SRL, Accenture Technology Solutions Sdn Bhd, Accenture Technology Solutions Slovakia s.r.o., Accenture Technology Ventures B.V., Accenture Technology Ventures SPRL, Accenture Tecnologia Consultoria y Outsourcing S.A., Accenture Uruguay SRL, Accenture Vietnam Co. Limited, Accenture Zambia Limited, Accenture do Brasil Ltda, Accenture plc, Accenture s.r.o., Acceria, Acquity Group, Adaptly LLC, Adaptly UK Limited, AddVal Technology, Adqptly, Advantium Inc., Advoco, Agilex Technologies Inc., Allen International, AlphaBeta Advisors, Altevie Technologies S.r.l., Altima, Altima (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Altima Asia Ltd, Altitude, Altitude LLC, Altius Consulting Limited, Altius Data Solutions Private Limited, Analytics 8 LP, Analytics 8 Pty Ltd, Analytics8, Aorui Advertising (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Apis, Apis Group Pty Ltd, Appaloosa Technology SASU, AppsPro, Arca, Arca Ingenieros y Consultoria S.L., Arca Telecom S.L., Ariba - BPO, Arismore, Artio People (Payroll) Pty Ltd, Artio People Pty Ltd, Aspiro Solutions (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Automation Partners Pty Ltd, Avanade (Guangzhou) Computer Technology Development Co. Ltd., Avanade Asia Pte Ltd, Avanade Australia Pty Ltd, Avanade Belgium SPRL, Avanade Canada Inc, Avanade Consulting Poland S.p. z o.o., Avanade Denmark A/S, Avanade Deutschland GmbH, Avanade Europe Holdings Limited, Avanade Europe Services Limited, Avanade Finland Oy, Avanade France SASU, Avanade Holdings LLC, Avanade Hong Kong Ltd, Avanade Inc, Avanade International Corporation, Avanade Ireland Limited, Avanade Italy S.r.l., Avanade Japan KK, Avanade Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Avanade Middle East Limited, Avanade Netherlands B.V., Avanade Norway AS, Avanade Poland S.p. z o.o., Avanade Schweiz GmbH, Avanade South Africa Pty Ltd, Avanade Spain S.L., Avanade Sweden AB, Avanade UK Limited, Avanade do Brasil Ltda, Avanade Osterreich GmbH, Avenai, Axia Ltd., BABCN LLC, BCS Consulting, BCT Solutions, BCT Solutions Pty Ltd, BENEXT, BPO Servicos Administrativos Ltda, BRIDGE Energy Group, Beacon Consulting Group Inc., Beijing Genesis Interactive Technology Co. Ltd., Beijing Zhidao Future Consulting Co. Ltd, Benext, Berico Technologies LLC, Bionic, Bionic Solution LLC, Blue Horseshoe, Boomerang Pharmaceutical Communications, Bow & Arrow, Bow & Arrow Limited, Brand Learning, Brand Learning Group Limited, Brightstep AB, Byte Prophecy, Byte Prophecy Private Limited, CAS, CRMWaypoint, CS Technology (Australia) Pty Ltd, CS Technology (UK) Limited, CS Technology Group LLC, CS Technology LLC, CadenceQuest Inc., Callisto Integration Europe B.V., Callisto Integration Europe Limited, Callisto Integration LLC, Callisto Integration Ltd, Capgemini - North American health practice, Capital Consultancy Services Inc, Certus Solutions Consulting Services Limited, Certus Solutions Ltd, ChangeTrack Research Pty Ltd., Chaotic Moon Studios, Chengdu Mensa Advertising Co. Ltd., Cimation, Cirrus Connect Australia Pty Ltd, Cirrus Connect Limited, Cirruseo, Clarity Insights, Clearhead, Clearhead Group LLC, ClientHouse GmbH, Cloud Sherpas, Cloud Sherpas (GA) LLC, Cloud Sherpas Japan G.K., Cloud Sherpas New Zealand Limited, Cloudeasier SAS, Cloudpoint Limited, Cloudsherpas Inc, Cloudworks, Cloudworks Consulting Services Inc, Cloudworks Technology LLC, Computer Research and Telecommunications LLC, Concrete Desenvolvimento de Sistemas Ltda, Concrete Solutions, Concrete Solutions Ltda, Context Information Security, Context Information Security LLC, Context Information Security Limited, CoreCompete LLC, CoreCompete Limited, CoreCompete Private Limited, Corliant Inc., Creative Drive LLC, Creative Drive US LLC, CreativeDrive, CreativeDrive Digital Content Services (Shenzhen) Co Ltd., CreativeDrive EMEA Limited, CreativeDrive Singapore Pte Ltd, CreativeDrive UK Group Limited, Cutting Edge Solutions Limited, Cygni AB, Cygni Norrsken AB, Cygni Stockholm AB, Cygni Syd AB, Cygni Vast AB, Cygni Ost AB, Cygni Ostersund AB, DAZ Systems Inc, DAZ Systems LLC, DAZSI Systems (India) Pvt. Limited, DI Futures Corporation, Data Essential SARL, Davies Consulting, DayNine Consulting, DayNine Consulting (New Zealand) Limited, DayNine Consulting LLC, Declarative Holdings LLC, Decora Marketplace LLC, Decorado Marketplace Ltda-EPP, Defense Point Security, Deja vu Security, Design Strategy and Research de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Designaffairs LLC, Digiplug S.A.S., Digital Results Group LLC, Double Digit Limitada, Double Digit Pty SA, Droga5, Droga5 LLC, Droga5 Studios LLC, Droga5 UK Limited, Duck Creek Technologies, ESR Labs, ESR Labs AG, EdenOne Solutions Limited, Edenhouse ERP Holdings Limited, Edenhouse Solutions Limited, Enaxis Consulting, Enaxis Consulting LP, End to End Analytics LLC, End-to-End Analytics, Endorphin Medici (M) Sdn Bhd, Energuia Web S.A., Energy Management Brokers Limited, EnergyQuote JHA, Enimbos, Enimbos Global Services S.L., Enkitec, Enterprise Infrastructure Solutions LLC, Enterprise System Partners, Enterprise System Partners B.V., Enterprise System Partners Bilisim Danismanlik Ticaret Anonim Sirketi, Enterprise System Partners Global Corporation, Enterprise System Partners Limited, Enthusian Pty Ltd, Entropia, Entropia (M) Sdn Bhd, Entropia Holdings Pte Ltd, Entropia Intercraft Sdn Bhd, Epylon, Espedia S.r.l., Ethica Consulting Group, Ethica Consulting S.p.A., Evopro Group, Exactside Limited, Experity, Exton Consulting, Exton Consulting Spain Strategy&Management S.L., Exton Germany GmbH, Exton International SAS, Exton Italia S.r.l., Exton SAS, FGM LLC, Fairway Technologies Inc, Farah BidCo Limited, Farah MidCo Limited, Farah Topco Limited, Filmproduction ApS, First Annapolis Consulting Inc., First Annapolis Consulting LLC, Fjord, Focus Group Europe, Formicary, Fruendo S.r.l., FusionX, Future State Consulting LLC, FutureMove (Beijing) Automotive Technology Co. Ltd., FutureMove Automotive, FutureMove Automotive Co. Ltd., GRA Supply Chain Pty Ltd, Gagel Group S de R.L. de C.V., Gapso Servicos de Informatica Ltda, Gapso Servicos de Informatica Ltda., Genfour, George Group Consulting L.P., Gestalt LLC, Gevity, Gren utvikling AS, H.B. Maynard and Co. Inc., HRC Retail Advisory, Hagberg Consulting Group, Hahntel Ltda, Halo Partners LLC, Hamilton Holding Company S.A, Hangzhou Aiyunzhe Technology Co. Ltd., Happen, Happen GP Limited, Happen Limited, Hjaltelin Stahl, Hjaltelin Stahl A/S, Hjaltelin Stahl K/S, Hytracc Consulting AS, Hytracc Consulting Malaysia Sdn Bhd, IBB Consulting, ICM.S S.r.l., IMJ Corp, IMJ Corporation, INSITUM, IQSP Consulting LLC, IT One Company Limited, ITBS Servicios Bancarios de Tecnologia de la Informacion SL, Icon Integration, Icon Integration (NZ) Limited, Icon Integration Pty Ltd, Imagine Broadband (USA) Limited, Imagine Broadband USA LLC, Imaginea Inc, Imaginea Technologies LLC, Industrie IT (Hong Kong) Ltd, Industrie IT (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Industrie IT Group Pty Ltd, Industrie IT Pty Ltd, Industrie&Co, Infinity Works Consulting Limited, Infinity Works Holdings Limited, Infinity Works Management Limited, Infinity Works Midco Limited, Informatica de Euskadi S.L., Innotec International EAD, Innotec International S.p. z.o.o., Innotec Marketing GmbH, Innotec Marketing International Ireland Limited, Innotec- Marketing Spain S.L, Insitum Consultoria Argentina SRL, Insitum Consultoria S.A. de C.V., International Biometric Group LLC, International Biometric Group UK Limited, Intrepid, Intrepid Futureworks Sdn Bhd, Intrigo Systems Inc, Intrigo Systems India Pvt. Limited, Intrigo Systems LLC, Inventor Technology Ltd, InvestTech, Investtech Systems Consulting LLC, ItSafer Continuity Services S.L., JKD Consulting LLC, Javelin Group, K Comms Group Limited, KSC Studio LLC, 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 Limited, Kogentix Singapore Pte Ltd, Kogentix Technologies Private Limited, Kolle Rebbe, Kolle Rebbe GmbH, Kream Comms Limited, Kunstmaan, Kurt Salmon, Kurt Salmon Canada LTD, Kurt Salmon US LLC, LEXTA, LINKBYNET, LINKBYNET Indian Ocean (L.I.O) Ltd, LabAnswer, Lexta GmbH, Lexta UK Limited, Lien par le reseau Inc, Lien par le reseau infrastructures Inc, Lin Bo (Shanghai) Network Technology Co. Ltd., Link By Net SAS, Link By Net SRL, Link By Net Vietnam Company Limited, Linkbynet East Asia Ltd, Linkbynet Singapore Pte Ltd., Loud & Clear Creative Pty Ltd, Lumenup S.A., MAXIM Systems Inc., MCG US Holdings LLC, Mackevision CG Technology and Service (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Mackevision Japan Co. Ltd., Mackevision Korea Ltd, Mackevision Medien Design, Mackevision Medien Design GmbH, Mackevision Singapore Pte Ltd, Mackevision UK Limited, Maglan, Maglan Information Defense Technologies Research Ltd, Maihiro, Matter, Maud Corp Pty Ltd, Maxamine International, Measuretek LLC, Media Audits Ltd., Media Hive, Mediasenz Pty Ltd., Meredith Specialty LLC, Meredith Xcelerated Marketing, Meredith Xcelerated Marketing LLC, Meridian Informed Purchasing Ltd., Mindtribe, Mistral Wind Operations Servicos Empresariais Unipessoal Lda., MobGen, Mortgage Cadence LLC, Mortgage Cadence an Accenture Company, Most Champion Ltd, Mudano, Mudano Limited, Myrtle Consulting Group LLC, N3 (Dalian) Business Consulting Co. Ltd., N3 Brazil Consultoria em Marketing Ltda, N3 Germany GmbH, N3 LLC, N3 North America LLC, N3 Results Australia Pty Ltd, N3 Results Ireland Limited, N3 Results Japan G.K., N3 Results Limited, N3 Results Malaysia Sdn Bhd, N3 Results Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., N3 Results S.A.S., N3 Results Singapore Pte Ltd, N3 Results Unipessoal Lda, NYTEC, Nanjing Demeng Advertising Co. Ltd., Nashco Consulting, NaviSys Inc., Nell'Armonia Israel Ltd, Nell'Armonia SAS, Nell'Participation SAS, NellArmonia, Neo Metrics Analytics S.L., Neo Metrics Chile S.A., New Content, New Content Editora e Produtora Ltda, New Energy Group, News Imaging LLC, NewsPage, NewsPage (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, NewsPage Pte Ltd, Northstream, Novetta Holdings LLC, Novetta LLC, Novetta Solutions LLC, Novetta Topco LLC, OCTO Technology, OPS Rules Management Consultants, Octagon Research Solutions Inc., Octo Technology Pty Ltd, Octo Technology SA, Odgaard ApS, Olikka, Olikka Pty Ltd, Openmind, Openmind S.r..l., Openminded, Openminded SAS, Operaciones Accenture S.A. de C.V., OpusLine, Orbium, Orbium AG, Orbium Consulting Limited, Orbium Inc., Orbium Ltd, Orbium Pte Ltd, Orbium Pty Ltd, Origin Digital, PCO Innovation, PLM Systems S.r.l, PRION GmbH, PT Accenture, PT Asta Catur Indra, PT Kogentix Teknologi Indonesia, PacificLink Group, Paja Finanssipalvelut Oy, Parker Fitzgerald Inc, Parker Fitzgerald International Limited, Parker Fitzgerald Limited, Parker Fitzgerald PTY Ltd, Parker Fitzgerald Services Limited, Parker Fitzgerald Solutions Limited, Pecaso Ltd., Pegasus Production A/S, Pegasus Production K/S, Phase One Consulting Group, Pillar Technology, Pollux, Pollux Automation Mexico S.A. de C.V., Pollux Canada Inc, Pollux S.A.S., Pollux USA LLC, Pragsis Bidoop, Pragsis Bidoop UK Limited, Pramati Technologies Europe Limited, Pramati Technologies Private Limited, Presence of IT Workforce Management North America LLC, PrimeQ, PrimeQ Australia Pty Ltd, PrimeQ Ltd, PrimeQ NZ Pty Limited, Procurian Inc., Prof. Homburg GmbH, Proquire LLC, PureApps Ltd., Qi Jie Beijing Information Technologies Co. Ltd., RBCP Fund 1-A Vapor Blocker LLC, RBCP Platform Vapor Blocker I LLC, REPL Consulting LLC, REPL Consulting Limited, REPL Digital Limited, REPL Group K.K., REPL Group Pty Ltd, REPL Group Worldwide Limited, REPL Pte Ltd, REPL Software Limited, REPL Technology Limited, Radiant Services LLC, Random Walk Computing Inc., Reactive Media Pty Ltd., Real Protect, Realworld OO Systems Ltd., Redcore, Redcore (New Zealand) Limited, Redcore Group Holdings Pty Ltd, Redcore Pty Ltd, Revolutionary Security, RiskControl, Root LLC, Rothco, Rothco Limited, S3 TV Technology Ltd., SALT Solutions GmbH, SEC Servizi, SOPIA Corp., Sagacious Consultants, Salt Solutions, Sandbox Studio LLC, Sapling Bidco Limited, Sapling Midco Limited, Sapling Topco Limited, Schlumberger Business Consulting, Seabury Aviation & Aerospace (UK) Limited, Seabury Consulting, Seabury Corporate Advisors LLC, Seabury Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Search Technologies BPO Inc, Search Technologies International LLC, Search Technologies LLC, Search Technologies Limited, Securiview SAS, Sentelis, Sentor Managed Secuirty Services AB, Servicios Tecnicos de Programacion Accenture S.C., Seven Seas Business Ventures LLC, Shackleton, Shackleton Chile S.A., Shackleton S.L.U., Shanghai Baiyue Advertising Co. Ltd., Shun Zhe Technology Development Co. Ltd., SigInt Technologies LLC, Silveo, Silveo Consulting India Private Limited, Simian Pty Ltd, SinnerSchrader, SinnerSchrader AG, SinnerSchrader Content GmbH, SinnerSchrader Deutschland GmbH, Sirvart S.A., Sistemes Consulting S.L., Skylink SAS, Soltians Limited, Solutions IQ LLC, SolutionsIQ, SolutionsIQ India Consulting Services Private Limited, Somers Ventures Ireland Limited, Somers Ventures LLC, Spacelink SAS, Storm Digital, Structure Consulting Group LLC, Sutter Mills, Synership LLC, Systor AG, TXF LLC, TargetST8, Tech - Avanade Portugal Unipessoal Lda, Tecnilogica Ecosistemas S.A., Tecnilogica, The Brand Learning Partners Limited, The Callisto Integration Corporation, The Monkeys, The Monkeys Pty Ltd, The Myrtle Group, Total Logistics, Tquila, Trivadis, Trivadis Austria GmbH, Trivadis Denmark AS, Trivadis Germany GmbH, Trivadis Holding AG, Trivadis Partner AG, Trivadis Services AG, Trivadis Services SRL, Troop Studios Pty Ltd, VanBerlo, Vector Acquisition Company LLC, Vector Topco LLC, Verax Solutions, Vertical Retail Consulting (Shanghai) Ltd, Vertical Retail Consulting Ltd, Vivere Brasil Servicos e Solucoes SA, Vivere Brasil Solucoes De Credito Ltda., Wabion GmbH, WaveStrike LLC, White Cliffs Consulting LLC, Wire Stone, Wire Stone LLC, Wise Partners SAS, Wolox, Wolox Colombia S.A.S, Wolox LLC, Wolox Mexico S.R.L de C.V., Wolox S.A., Wolox SpA, Workforce Insight, Workforce Insight LLC, Yesler, Yesler LLC, Yesler Limited, Yesler Singapore Pte Ltd, Zag, Zag Australia Pty Ltd, Zag Limited, Zag USA LLC, Zebra Worldwide Australia Pty Ltd, Zebra Worldwide Group Limited, Zebra Worldwide Media Pty Ltd, Zenta, Zenta Global Philippines Inc, Zenta Mortgage Services LLC, Zenta Recoveries Inc, Zenta US Holdings Inc, 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, solid-serVision.com GmbH, and umlaut. The following companies are subsidiares of CIT Group: 1143986 Ontario Limited, 1244771 Ontario Limited, 3918041 Canada Inc., 544211 Alberta Ltd., 555565 Alberta Ltd., 555566 Alberta Ltd., Baliardo Limited, C.I.T. Leasing Corporation, C2 Aviation Capital LLC, CBG LJB 21 LLC, CCERU Finance LP, CFHE Funding Company LLC, CIT Aerospace (Australia) Pty Ltd, CIT Aerospace Asia Pte Ltd., CIT Aerospace Belgium Sprl, CIT Aerospace Holdings (Australia) Pty Ltd, CIT Aerospace Holdings (France) SAS, CIT Aerospace International, CIT Aerospace International (Aruba) A.V.V., CIT Aerospace International (Australia) Pty Ltd., CIT Aerospace International (Bermuda) Limited, CIT Aerospace International (France) Sarl, CIT Aerospace International Leasing II, CIT Aerospace LLC, CIT Aerospace Sweden AB, CIT Asset Management LLC, CIT Aviation Finance I (France) Sarl, CIT Aviation Finance I (Ireland) Limited, CIT Aviation Finance I (UK) Limited, CIT Aviation Finance I Ltd., CIT Aviation Finance II (France) Sarl, CIT Aviation Finance II (Ireland) Limited, CIT Aviation Finance II (UK) Limited, CIT Aviation Finance II Ltd., CIT Aviation Finance III Ltd., CIT Bank N.A., CIT CBK Funding Company LLC, CIT CBK Funding Inc., CIT CLO Holding Corporation, CIT CLO I Blocker Inc., CIT CLO I LLC, CIT CLO I Ltd., CIT Canada Finance LP, CIT Canada Finance ULC, CIT Capital Aviation (UK) Limited, CIT Capital Finance (UK) Limited (in liquidation), CIT Capital Securities LLC, CIT Capital USA Inc., CIT Cayman Coconut Palm Leasing Ltd., CIT Cayman Sandy Keys Leasing Ltd., CIT Communications Finance Corporation, CIT Credit Group USA Inc., CIT Equipment Finance (UK) Limited (in liquidation), CIT FSC Eighteen Ltd., CIT FSC Nineteen Ltd., CIT Finance & Leasing (Tianjin) Corporation, CIT Finance & Leasing Corporation, CIT Finance LLC, CIT Financial (Alberta) ULC / Services Financiers CIT (Alberta) ULC, CIT Financial (Barbados) SRL, CIT Financial (Hong Kong) Limited, CIT Financial II (Barbados) Srl, CIT Financial Ltd./Services Financiers CIT Ltee., CIT Financial USA Inc., CIT Funding (UK) Limited (in liquidation), CIT Funding Company LLC, CIT Funding LLC, CIT Funds LLC, CIT Group (Hungary) Financial Servicing Limited Liability Company "under voluntary dissolution", CIT Group (NFL) Limited (in liquidation), CIT Group (NJ) LLC, CIT Group (Singapore) Pte Ltd (In Members' Voluntary Liquidation), CIT Group (UK) Limited (in liquidation), CIT Group Finance (Ireland), CIT Group Holding (Germany) GmbH i.L., CIT Group Holdings (UK) Limited (in liquidation), CIT Group Holdings B.V., CIT Group Inc., CIT Group Italy Srl in liquidazione, CIT Group SF Holding Co. Inc., CIT Healthcare LLC, CIT Holdings (Barbados) SRL, CIT Holdings B.V., CIT Holdings Canada ULC, CIT Home Lending Securitization Company LLC, CIT Insurance Agency Inc., CIT Leasing (Bermuda) Ltd., CIT Leasing (Germany) GmbH i.L., CIT Lending Services Corporation, CIT Lending Services Corporation (Illinois), CIT Loan Corporation, CIT Malaysia One Inc., CIT Maritime Leasing LLC, CIT Mezzanine Partners of Canada Limited, CIT Millbury Inc., CIT Rail Holdings (Europe) SAS, CIT Rail LLC, CIT Railcar Funding Company LLC, CIT Small Business Lending Corporation, CIT Strategic Finance Inc., CIT TRS Funding B.V., CIT TRS Holdings B.V., CIT TRS Subsidiary B.V., CIT Technology Financing Services Inc., CIT Trade Finance Funding Company LLC, CIT Transportation Holdings B.V., CRE CT 21 OTHER LLC, CRE CT 27 OTHER LLC, CRE FFBC LLC, CRE LJ 21 OTHER LLC, CRE LJ 27 OTHER LLC, CRE LJ 4800 Riverside LLC, CRE LJ CA 2 LLC, CRE LJ CA LLC, CRE LJ CP ESCONDIDO LLC, CRE LJ TX LLC, Canadian Income Partners I Limited Partnership, Canadian Income Partners II Limited Partnership, Canadian Income Partners III Limited Partnership, Canadian Income Partners IV Limited Partnership, Canadian Income Partners V Limited Partnership, Canadian Income Partners VI Limited Partnership, Canadian Income Partners VII Limited Partnership, Canadian Income Partners VIII Limited Partnership, Capita Corporation, Capital Direct Group Inc., Centennial Aviation (Bermuda) 1 Ltd., Centennial Aviation (France) 1 SARL, Centennial Aviation (France) 2 SARL, Centennial Aviation (Ireland) 7 Limited, Direct Capital Corporation, Direct Capital Funding III Company LLC, Direct Capital Funding V LLC, Education Loan Servicing Corporation, Emerald Funding (Netherlands) C.V., Emerald Holdings C.V., Financial Freedom Acquisition LLC, IMV 11 PALM LLC, INDYMAC VENTURE LLC, Jessica Leasing Designated Activity Company, MEX CIT SERVICIOS S. de R.L. de C.V., Madeleine Leasing Designation Activity Company, Memphis Peaking Power LLC, Millennium Leasing Company I LLC, Millennium Leasing Company II LLC, NACCO (U.K.) Limited, NACCO GmbH, NACCO Rail Ireland Limited, NACCO S.A.S, Nacco Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Newcourt Financial Espana S.A., North Romeo Storage Corporation, ONEWEST VENTURES HOLDINGS LLC, OWB REO LLC, OneWest Bank N.A, OneWest Investments II LLC, OneWest Investments LLC, OneWest Resources LLC, PL Servicing LLC, Rita Leasing Designated Activity Company, The CIT GP Corporation III, The CIT Group Securitization Corporation II, The CIT Group/Business Credit Inc., The CIT Group/Commercial Services Inc., The CIT Group/Corporate Aviation Inc., The CIT Group/Equipment Financing Inc., The CIT Group/Equity Investments Inc., The Capita Corporation do Brasil Ltda, The Equipment Insurance Company, and Worrell Capital Limited. 39 minutes ago Shell walks 'tightrope' of demands amid climate pressures LONDON (AP) From now on, just call it Shell. Royal Dutch Shell on Friday received approval from shareholders to simplify its archaic corporate structure, which grew out of the merger more than a century ago of a British firm that once traded in exotic seashells and an oil company in the Netherlands. Read Article Ormat Technologies, Inc. operates as a holding company. The firm engages in the provision of geothermal and recovered energy power business. It operates through the following segments: Electricity, Product and Energy Storage. The Electricity segment focuses in the sale of electricity from the company's power plants pursuant to PPAs. The Product segment involves in the manufacture, including design and development, of turbines and power units for the supply of electrical energy and in the associated construction of power plants utilizing the power units manufactured by the company to supply energy from geothermal fields and other alternative energy sources. The Energy Storage segment consists of battery energy storage systems as a service and management of curtailable customer loads under contracts with U.S. retail energy providers and directly with large commercial and industrial customers. The company was founded in 1965 and is headquartered in Reno, NV. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Exxon Mobil: AKG Marketing Company Limited, Aera Energy LLC, Al-Jubail Petrochemical Company, Ampolex (Cepu) Pte Ltd, Ancon Insurance Company Inc., Barnett Gathering LLC, Barzan Gas Company Limited, Caspian Pipeline Consortium, Celtic Exploration Ltd., Coral FLNG S.A., Cross Timbers Energy LLC, Ellora Energy Inc., Esmeroon Oil Transporta Imperial Oil Limited, Esso (Thailand) Public Company Limited, Esso Australia Resources Pty Ltd, Esso Deutschland GmbH, Esso Erdgas Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH, Esso Exploration Angola (Block 15) Limited, Esso Exploration Angola (Block 17) Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Angola (Overseas) Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Chad Inc., Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria (Deepwater) Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria (Offshore East) Limited, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited, Esso Exploration and Production UK Limited, Esso Global Investments Ltd., Esso Italiana S.r.l., Esso Nederland B.V., Esso Norge AS, Esso Petroleum Company Limited, Esso Raffinage, Esso Societe Anonyme Francaise, Exxo Holdings Inc., Exxon Azerbaijan Limited, Exxon Chemical Arabia Inc., Exxon International Finance Company, Exxon Luxembourg Holdings LLC, Exxon Mobile Bay Limited Partnership, Exxon Neftegas Limited, Exxon Overseas Corporation, Exxon Overseas Investment Corporation, ExxonMobil (China) Investment Co. Ltd., ExxonMobil (Taicang) Petroleum Co. Ltd., ExxonMobil Abu Dhabi Offshore Petroleum Company Limited, ExxonMobil Alaska Production Inc., ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., ExxonMobil Australia Pty Ltd, ExxonMobil B Resources Company, ExxonMobil Capital Finance Company, ExxonMobil Capital Netherlands B.V., ExxonMobil Central Europe Holding GmbH, ExxonMobil Cepu Limited, ExxonMobil Chemical France, ExxonMobil Chemical Gulf Coast Investments LLC, ExxonMobil Chemical Holland B.V., ExxonMobil Chemical Services (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., ExxonMobil China Petroleum & Petrochemical Company Limited, ExxonMobil Development Africa B.V., ExxonMobil Development Company, ExxonMobil Egypt (S.A.E.), ExxonMobil Exploracao Brasil Ltda., ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Malaysia Inc., ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Norway AS, ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Romania Limited, ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Tanzania Limited, ExxonMobil Finance Company Limited, ExxonMobil Financial Investment Company Limited, ExxonMobil France Holding SAS, ExxonMobil Gas Marketing Europe Limited, ExxonMobil General Finance Company, ExxonMobil Global Services Company, ExxonMobil Golden Pass Surety LLC, ExxonMobil Holding Company Holland LLC, ExxonMobil Holding Norway AS, ExxonMobil Hong Kong Limited, ExxonMobil International Services SARL, ExxonMobil Iraq Limited, ExxonMobil Italiana Gas S.r.l., ExxonMobil Kazakhstan Inc., ExxonMobil Kazakhstan Ventures Inc., ExxonMobil LNG Services B.V., ExxonMobil Lubricants Trading Company, ExxonMobil Oil Corporation, ExxonMobil PNG Limited, ExxonMobil Petroleum & Chemical BVBA, ExxonMobil Petroleum & Chemical Holdings Inc., ExxonMobil Pipeline Company, ExxonMobil Production Deutschland GmbH, ExxonMobil Production Norway Inc., ExxonMobil Qatargas (II) Limited, ExxonMobil Qatargas Inc., ExxonMobil Ras Laffan (III) Limited, ExxonMobil Rasgas Inc., ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company, ExxonMobil Russia Kara Sea Holdings B.V., ExxonMobil Sales and Supply LLC, ExxonMobil Technology Finance Company, ExxonMobil Ventures Finance Company, ExxonMobil Ventures Funding Ltd., Fujian Refining & Petrochemical Co. Ltd., Golden Pass LNG Terminal Investments LLC, Golden Pass LNG Terminal LLC, Gulf Coast Growth Ventures LLC, Imperial Oil Limited, Imperial Oil Resources Limited, Imperial Oil Resources N.W.T. Limited, Imperial Oil/Petroliere Imperiale, Infineum Italia s.r.I., Infineum Singapore Pte. Ltd., InterOil Corporation, Jurong Aromatics Corporation Pte Ltd, MPM Lubricants, Marine Well Containment Company LLC, Mobil Australia Resources Company Pty Limited, Mobil California Exploration & Producing Asset Company, Mobil Caspian Pipeline Company, Mobil Chemical Products International Inc., Mobil Corporation, Mobil Equatorial Guinea Inc., Mobil Erdgas Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH, Mobil Exploration & Producing Australia Pty Ltd, Mobil International Petroleum Corporation, Mobil Oil Australia Pty Ltd, Mobil Oil Exploration & Producing Southeast Inc., Mobil Oil New Zealand Limited, Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited, Mobil Producing Texas & New Mexico Inc., Mobil SerLimited, Mobil Venezolana De Petroleos Inc., Mobil Yanbu Petrochemical Company Inc., Mobil Yanbu Refining Company Inc., Mountain Gathering LLC, Mozambique Rovuma Venture S.p.A., Palmetto Transoceanic LLC, Papua New Guinea Liquefied Natural Gas Global Company LDC, Permian Express Partners LLC, Phillips Exploration LLC, Qatar Liquefied Gas Company Limited, Ras Laffan Liquefied Natural Gas Company Limited, Ras Laffan Liquefied Natural Gas Company Limited (II), SPI Limited, Saudi Aramco Mobil Refinery Company Ltd., Saudi Yanbu Petrochemical Co., SeaRiver Maritime Inc., South Hook LNG Terminal Company Limited, Tengizchevroil LLP, Terminale GNL Adriatico S.r.l, Trend Gathering & Treating LLC, Wolverine Pipe Line Company, XH LLC, XTO Delaware Basin LLC, XTO ENERGY, XTO Energy Canada, and XTO Holdings LLC. GlaxoSmithKline Plc is a healthcare company, which engages in the research, development, and manufacture of pharmaceutical medicines, vaccines, and consumer healthcare products. It operates through the following segments: Pharmaceuticals; Pharmaceuticals R&D; Vaccines and Consumer Healthcare. The Pharmaceuticals segment focuses on developing medicines in respiratory and infectious diseases, oncology, and immuno-inflammation. The Pharmaceuticals R&D segment focuses on science related to the immune system, the use of human genetics and advanced technologies, and is driven by the multiplier effect of Science x Technology x Culture. The Vaccines segment produces pediatric and adult vaccines to prevent a range of infectious diseases including, hepatitis A and B, diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough, measles, mumps and rubella, polio, typhoid, influenza, and bacterial meningitis. The Consumer Healthcare segment develops and markets brands in the oral health, pain relief, respiratory, nutrition and gastro intestinal, and skin health categories. The company was founded in 1715 and is headquartered in Middlesex, the United Kingdom. Read More KION GROUP AG provides industrial trucks, warehouse technology, supply chain solutions, and related services worldwide. The company operates through Industrial Trucks and Services, Supply Chain Solutions, and Corporate Services segments. It develops, manufactures, and sells forklifts and warehouse trucks, such as counterbalance trucks with electric drive and internal combustion engine, ride-on and hand-operated industrial trucks, and towing vehicles under the Linde, Fenwick, STILL, Baoli, and OM Voltas brand names. The company also manufactures and sells spare parts; leases industrial trucks and related items; offers maintenance and repair, and fleet management services, as well as provides finance solutions. In addition, it provides integrated technology and software solutions, including conveyors, sorters, storage and retrieval systems, picking equipment, palletizers, and robotic solutions under the Dematic brand. The company was formerly known as KION Holding 1 GmbH. KION GROUP AG was founded in 2006 and is based in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Read More (CNN) India's second-richest man is giving billions to charity in what may be the country's biggest single donation ever. Azim Premji, the billionaire chairman of Wipro, is handing shares in the tech company worth nearly 530 billion rupees ($7.5 billion) to his philanthropic foundation. The tech tycoon has now donated a total of $21 billion to the Azim Premji Foundation over several years, including 67% of Wipro's shares, the foundation said in a statement. Premji, 73, has a fortune of more than $18 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. He was the first Indian to sign the Giving Pledge, a campaign started by Warren Buffett with Bill and Melinda Gates to encourage billionaires around the world to commit most of their wealth to charity. Premji accounted for 80% of "large donations" defined as more than 100 million rupees ($1.4 million) from India's richest individuals in the 2018 financial year, according to this year's India Philanthropy Report by consulting firm Bain & Company and philanthropy fund Dasra. Private individuals in India donate about 430 billion rupees ($6.2 billion) each year, the report said. Wipro was founded by Premji's father in 1945 as a vegetable oil manufacturer, and transitioned to the technology industry in the 1980s under Premji's leadership. It has since grown into one of India's biggest IT services companies, with more than 160,000 employees worldwide and over 1,200 clients in industries ranging from aerospace to retail. Premji's foundation focuses on supporting education, and runs the Azim Premji University in Bangalore. Its billionaire benefactor's latest donation could help it open a second university and "scale up significantly," the organization said. This story was first published on CNN.com, "Indian tech billionaire gives $7.5 billion to charity." Rolls-Royce Holdings plc operates as an industrial technology company in the United Kingdom and internationally. The company operates in four segments: Civil Aerospace, Power Systems, Defence, and ITP Aero. The Civil Aerospace segment develops, manufactures, and sells aero engines for large commercial aircraft, regional jet, and business aviation markets, as well as provides aftermarket services. The Power Systems segment provides high-speed and medium-speed reciprocating engines, and propulsion and power generation systems for the marine, defense, power generation, and industrial markets. The Defence segment offers aero engines for military transport and patrol aircraft applications; and naval engines and submarine nuclear power plants, as well as aftermarket services. The ITP Aero segment engages in the design, research and development, manufacture and casting, assembly, and testing of aeronautical engines and gas turbines. It also provides maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for regional airlines, as well as business aviation, industrial, and defense applications. Rolls-Royce Holdings plc was founded in 1884 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom. Read More Royal Dutch Shell plc operates as an energy and petrochemical company worldwide. The company operates through Integrated Gas, Upstream, Oil Products, Chemicals segments. It explores for and extracts crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids; markets and transports oil and gas; produces gas-to-liquids fuels and other products; and operates upstream and midstream infrastructure necessary to deliver gas to market. The company also markets and trades natural gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), crude oil, electricity, carbon-emission rights; and markets and sells LNG as a fuel for heavy-duty vehicles and marine vessels. In addition, it trades in and refines crude oil and other feed stocks, such as gasoline, diesel, heating oil, aviation fuel, marine fuel, biofuel, lubricants, bitumen, and sulphur; produces and sells petrochemicals for industrial use; and manages oil sands activities. Further, the company produces base chemicals comprising ethylene, propylene, and aromatics, as well as intermediate chemicals, such as styrene monomer, propylene oxide, solvents, detergent alcohols, ethylene oxide, and ethylene glycol. Royal Dutch Shell plc was founded in 1907 and is headquartered in The Hague, the Netherlands. Read More There is not enough analysis data for BlackRock Enhanced Equity Dividend Trust. 4.5 Community Rank Outperform Votes BlackRock Enhanced Equity Dividend Trust has received 124 outperform votes. (Add your outperform vote.) Underperform Votes BlackRock Enhanced Equity Dividend Trust has received 61 underperform votes. (Add your underperform vote.) Community Sentiment BlackRock Enhanced Equity Dividend Trust has received 67.03% outperform votes from our community. MarketBeat's community ratings are surveys of what our community members think about BlackRock Enhanced Equity Dividend Trust and other stocks. Vote Outperform if you believe BDJ will outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Vote Underperform if you believe BDJ will underperform the S&P 500 over the long term. You may vote once every thirty days. Previous Next Premium Brands Holdings Corporation, through its subsidiaries, manufactures and distributes food products primarily in Canada and the United States. It operates in two segments, Specialty Foods and Premium Food Distribution. The company provides meat products and snacks, deli products, beef jerky and halal, sandwiches, pastries, specialty and gourmet products, salads and kettle products, entrees, panini, wraps, subs, hamburgers, burgers, muffins, breads, pastas, and baking and sushi products, as well as processed meat products. It is also involved in the distribution of food products, including meat, seafood, and halal food products, as well as operation of retail/convenience store and concessionary, and provision of food and seafood processing services. The company operates under the brand names of Harvest Meats, Hempler's, Grimm's Fine Foods, Piller's, Freybe, Isernio's, Expresco, SJ Fine Foods, McSweeney's, Made Rite, Fletcher's, Deli Chef, Belmont Meats, Conte Foods, SK Food Group, Oven Pride, Hygaard, Quality Fast Foods, HQ Fine Foods, Creekside Custom Foods, Stuyver's Bread, Bread Garden Express, Audrey's Patisserie, Duso's, Gourmet Chef, Island City Baking, Skilcor, Leadbetter's, Mclean Meats, Buddy's Kitchen, Raybern's, Partner's Crackers, Shaw Bakers, Oberto, Concord Meats, Country Prime Meats, The Meat Factory, and Golden Valley Farms. It serves chains and large format retailers, independent and specialty retailers, foodservice operators, foodservice distributors, and other food manufacturers and food brokers. The company was founded in 1917 and is headquartered in Richmond, Canada. Read More 7 Wall Street equities research analysts have issued "buy," "hold," and "sell" ratings for Tullow Oil in the last twelve months. There are currently 1 sell rating, 3 hold ratings and 3 buy ratings for the stock. The consensus among Wall Street equities research analysts is that investors should "hold" Tullow Oil stock. A hold rating indicates that analysts believe investors should maintain any existing positions they have in TLW, but not buy additional shares or sell existing shares. View analyst ratings for Tullow Oil or view top-rated stocks. I watched the testimony of the former attorney general. Besides being a prolific note taker, she has excellent recall for detail, and more credibility and determination than all the others put together. If you remember Shawinigate, the Airbus and Adscam affairs, you know how politicians can stand in front of a camera and spew fiction with the same look of omnipotence and disdain for anyone who would ever doubt their Integrity. Stephen Fuhr, our local MP, actually kept to script, and unlike others, did nothing to try and tarnish Rayboulds character, memory, or any personal words of recrimination. He was Unique. Trudeau has shown what Ive always held to be true the smile lots, talk nice, and my way, or the highway ruthlessness of his father, Pierre, with none of his Intellect. All those ministers he appointed were newbies he thought he could control, but we know now, that some, or at least one, had more character, conscience, and moral compass than he ever imagined. Now that weve heard from a couple of senior Liberal members, singing from the same songsheet, the rest of the testimony, by the rest of the cast of characters, will just be a chorus. If he goes ahead with the deal for SNC, his moral compass will be hard pressed, to deal with the fallout from trade talks with China, and the U.S., and his pronouncement that he would not interfere politically in a justice determination will become a focal point. The current cast of characters on the world stage, has put our Western culture and representative democracy at greater risk, than any foreign power ever could have done. If there was ever a need for a public inquiry, it is now. Chuck Liebrock Photo: Contributed Canadian musician Bryan Adams has cancelled a Christchurch concert. A former Okanagan broadcaster now living in New Zealand says the nation is shocked and dismayed by the attack on a Christchurch mosque on Friday. Eric Luxton was a radio journalist in Vernon before moving to New Zealand to continue his trade. He says he couldn't even eat dinner following news of the massacre. "I'm just empty, shocked and disgusted that this kind of thing could happen to our country," Luxton told Castanet when reached at his home. "I guess extremists see us as a soft target because we are so open, welcoming and multicultural." Ironically, the Auckland Poly-Fest was also just underway, featuring high school performances from countries throughout the South Pacific and for the first time featuring other ethnicities showcasing their cultures as well. "We've got the diversity, we have the mix, New Zealand is for the most part welcoming. That's what makes our country so vibrant," said Luxton. A performance by B.C.'s Bryan Adams was also cancelled for Christchurch on Sunday, with Adams taking to Twitter to show solidarity with the victims. The court accepted Apple's appeal that the trainers' work under the B-1 visa was acceptable, and that neither Apple nor Infosys were attempting to commit fraud. New York: A US district court in California has reportedly dismissed lawsuit filed against Apple and Infosys alleging visa fraud by both the companies. The lawsuit was filed in 2016 by a whistleblower alleging that the iPhone maker Apple and Indian IT company Infosys conspired to bring two Indian nationals for training on B-1 visa instead of more expensive H1-B visa. According to a report published on website Apple Insider, Apple and Infosys had both asked the court to dismiss the lawsuit brought by contractor Carl Krawitt for the US government, under the False Claims Act and the court on Tuesday approved appeal of Apple by dismissing the case, while Infosys motion was denied as moot -- meaning no impact on the case. The court accepted Apple's appeal that the trainers' work under the B-1 visa was acceptable, and that neither Apple nor Infosys were attempting to commit fraud, the report said. Currently all the schemes implemented by the governments are to create ownership-based affordable homes. (Representational Image) Mumbai: The Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRera) chief Gautam Chatterjee on Friday said that the government needs to consider setting up a green channel to ensure speedy approvals for housing projects in the state. Speaking at the CII Real Estate Confluence 2019, Chatterjee said that out of the 6,900 new projects launched and registered under MahaRera, nearly 80 per cent are less than 640 sqft. "We cannot treat a luxury project at par with an affordable one. The government is also putting a lot of emphasis on promoting affordable homes and therefore I feel, at the government level, there is a need to create a green channel to ensure speedy approvals for such projects," MahaRera chief said. He further said that there is a need to earmark land for affordable housing or else it would result in mushrooming of slums or may be grabbed by land mafias. "As we have done in the Mumbai Development Plan 2034 where we have specifically allocated plots for residential purposes, it is necessary that such demarcations are done in other parts of the state as well to ensure the land is used for the purpose of creating affordable housing stock," Chatterjee said. Emphasising the need for creating more rental housing stock Chatterjee said, "currently all the schemes implemented by the governments are to create ownership-based affordable homes. But there is a significant demand in the rental housing space as well." He noted that the rental housing schemes initiated by state agencies like MHADA and MMRDA lacked scale and had failed. "There are people who are looking for rental housing stock which is available at affordable rates. We need to create such housing at a good scale and appoint agencies for operating and maintaining such units to ensure there is no misuse," Chatterjee added. Mumbai: Superstar Aamir Khan says filmmaking does excites him, but currently he wants to focus on acting. The 54-year-old actor, who made directorial debut with "Taare Zameen Par", said he will quit acting once he decides to turn full-fledged filmmaker. "I am inclined towards filmmaking and I coincidentally directed 'Taare Zameen Par'. I have been in love with filmmaking and acting and I can't alienate the two but what I can say right now is that I began my career as an actor and it excites me. "The moment I become a full-fledged filmmaker I will stop acting. Right now, I don't want to stop acting, that's why I am holding back the director inside me," Aamir told reporters here on Thursday. As a producer, Aamir has backed films like "Lagaan", "Taare Zameen Par", "Jaane Tu Yaha Jaane Na", "Peepli Live", "Dhobi Ghat", "Delhi Belly", "Talaash", "Dangal" and "Secret Superstar". The actor said his aim is to support good scripts and making money is not his agenda. "I had not thought at what pace I will make films. Usually, people make films with their production houses for business. That is not our first agenda. Creativity is our agenda. Till the time we don't get a good script, we don't make it into a film." When asked if as an actor does he have any Hollywood aspirations, Aamir said he would work in any part of the world if he gets a good opportunity. "For me, as an actor, what is important is what the film is all about and what it is trying to say. It should excite me as an actor. It is not important that it should have a social message. "It does not matter which part of the world it originates from. If someone from Japan or Africa offers me something and if I get excited, I will do it. But I don't have a fascination for Hollywood," Aamir added. The actor has announced his next project, "Lal Singh Chaddha", an official adaptation of Tom Hanks' 1994 film "Forrest Gump". He was also in talks for Netflix series on spiritual leader Rajneesh, popularly known among his followers as Osho, but he said the script has not been finalised yet. "Nothing is happening on Osho at the moment. I am not aware. The script is not ready," he said. Mumbai: After making her debut with Dhadak, Janhvi Kapoor is currently busy shooting for the biopic on Gunjan Saxena, the first woman IAF pilot who evacuated injured soldiers from Kargil in 1999. The film is directed by Sharan Sharma for Dharma Productions. I should be shooting in summer for my other film. And no, it is not Takht, says the actress. The shooting is on for Gunjan Saxena biopic. There is time for the Takht shoot. We are working on other things for the project, she adds. Since the summer is almost here, we asked Janhvi about her go-to clothes during this period. Like everyone else, I feel very hot during summer. I wear shorts a lot. I also wear khadi and cotton shirts and kurtas, says Janhvi. And, whats her favourite colour? Green is my lucky colour. My mother told me to wear green because an astrologer once told her that it is my lucky colour. So, she has asked me to wear it often, adds the actress. In a major development, Ronnie Screwvala has declared war on multiplexes, similar to how the South film industry had gone on strike last year over the same issue. In a 153-page informative note addre-ssed to P.K. Singh, Secretary of the Competition Commission Of India, Ronnie has asked them to intervene and stop major players like PVR Ltd, Inox Leisure Ltd, Cinepolis India Pvt. Ltd and Carnival Motion Pictures Pvt Ltd along with FICCI Multiplex Association of India from charging the Virtual Print Fee (VPF) which amounts to Rs 20,000 per screen when a producer or a film studio releases their film through the digital service provider. In his note, Ronnie has also mentioned that the multiplexes should take care of the exhibition and the producers should not be charged as they would recover their investments (multiplexes had to change their systems to accommodate the digital prints) in five years. If the Competition Commission has its way, Bollywood and other regional industries too can breathe a sigh of relief as it would bring down the releasing costs of films by a huge margin. Washington: Recently a Nigerian feature film helped researchers in understanding if media, such as movies had any hand in shifting the social norms or influencing people and found that movies greatly influence people to behave as the actors do. To conduct the study which was published in the journal of Science Advances, a Nigerian film called Water of Gold was rolled out amongst 106 places. The movie was released in two versions and it was randomly determined whether viewers would see the version of the film, which had the corruption-reporting scenes, or the version that lacks them. Water of Gold is a Nollywood film (a loose term referring to the Nigerian film industry), which was commissioned for the purposes of this experiment. The movie, set in the Niger Delta, is a story about two brothers. One brother, Natufe, is a poor fisherman whereas Natufe's brother, Priye, leaves the Niger Delta and returns home after getting rich by doing business only to become a corrupt politician much to the shock of Natufe, who had become outspoken about the prevalent local corruption. In one version of Water of Gold, Natufe and another local activist set up a number for corruption reporting via text message and report instances of it. The other version does not contain those scenes. And the researchers discovered that Water of Gold does boost corruption reporting among viewers but only when it contains the extra 17 minutes showing the movie characters reporting corruption themselves. The movie and an accompanying mass text message campaign spurred 240 people from the 106 small communities of Nigeria to send in concrete, specific reports of corruption over a seven-month period which is a marked improvement compared to two national campaigns done to curb corruption. Both the versions of the movie had a new system displayed to report corruption on the films packaging and at the beginning, middle and end of the film. After the film was released, the researchers sent out mass texts where people simply had to reply to report corruption. Littman, one of the co-authors said, "I think people were surprised that the campaign actually worked. "It wasnt an accident that the study focused on the Niger Delta region, where massive amounts of oil production have not been accompanied by an equivalently substantial investment in services and infrastructure for citizens. Hundreds of students of Pudukkottai Government Women Arts College staged a sit-in protest over the Pollachi sex scandal. (Photo: ANI) Pudukkottai: Hundreds of students of Pudukkottai Government Women Arts College staging a sit-in protest over the Pollachi sex scandal were detained by the Police here on Saturday. The students refused to call off the Dharna, due to which police had to forcibly detain the agitating girls to disperse the crowd. On Friday, a petition was filed in the Supreme Court seeking a court-monitored probe into the Pollachi sex scandal. The petition, additionally, sought transfer of all the Pollachi sex scandal related cases outside Tamil Nadu. The case now stands transferred to the CB-CID, a special wing of the CID, which initiated an inquiry into the matter on March 13 after receiving requisite documents from the local police. Coimbatore District Court on Friday granted four days custody of the four accused in the case. The case hearing was held through video conferencing from Coimbatore central prison and district court complex. In the Pollachi sex scandal, more than 50 women were allegedly lured and sexually harassed by a gang of four and the acts were filmed. Four accused persons identified as Sabarirajan, Sathish, Thirunavukarasu and Vasan Kumar were arrested in the case. They have been arrested under Section 392, 354 (A), 354 (B) of the Indian Penal Code and 66A of the Information Technology Act. The Crime Branch of Chennai Police on Thursday also registered an FIR against DMK president MK Stalins son-in-law, Sabareesan. New Delhi: Priests ought not to obstruct communication between devotees and God, the Delhi High Court on Friday said while giving suggestions on managing the rush of people at Kalkaji Temple in New Delhi. The observation came from Justice J R Midha who also said that the "working in the temple has to improve. This is not the way. I am concerned whether a temple should be run in this way". "There is only a fraction of a second for a person to view the deity. Within that fraction of a second, there should be no obstruction between devotees and God. Here (the temple) the fraction of a second is not unobstructed. I also go to that temple. "People (the priests) are there only to obstruct. Give a person one or two seconds to communicate with God. The people there (the priests) are not better enlightened that they can communicate to God better than devotees," the judge said. The observations came during hearing of a priest's plea seeking a judicial order to restrain his two sisters from doing puja and 'sewa' at the temple and sharing offerings collected. However, the priest today agreed to an interim arrangement to pay Rs six lakh each to his two sisters from the offerings collected during the 'puja sewa' from February 7 to March 7. In view of the proposal made by the priest, the court directed them to give within three days post-dated cheques of February 24 to both the woman. To ensure that the 'daily darshan' at the temple be managed in a "systematic manner" as is being done in other temples, like at Vaishno Devi shrine, the court suggested having two single person lines with each devotee being permitted unobstructed 'darshan' for a "fraction of a second". Citing the example of Jhandewalan temple here where devotees who don't want to stand in the line can view the deity from a distance, the court suggested putting in place such an arrangement at Kalkaji temple also by removing some constructions 20 feet from the deity. Since the darshan by devotees was managed by the police station of Kalkaji, the court has sought the presence of the Station House Officer of that police station on the next date of hearing on February 21. The court also asked the lawyers from both sides to visit the temple and to suggest measures by which the darshan process can be made smoother. The priest moved the high court after the lower court allowed his two sisters to sit in the puja. In his plea filed through advocate B L Wali, the priest has said that since the married sisters belong to different families and gotra they have no rights to perform 'puja sewa', which started yesterday and will end on March 7. He has said the lower court's February 4 order should be stayed and his sisters be restrained from performing the puja. Earlier, the priest's lawyer had told the court that from time immemorial only male descendants of the family were entitled to the proceeds of offerings since they performed puja and other rituals in the temple. It was also argued earlier that in the history of the Kalkaji temple, no woman has ever performed puja. The two sisters through their counsel Satish Sahai had earlier told the court that they have a right to perform puja and 'sewa' being the legal heirs of their father. New Delhi: The BJP is likely to release its first list of candidates for the Lok Sabha polls on Saturday, when its central election committee is scheduled to meet. The list will have the names of most of the candidates for the first phase of polling, which will be held on April 11 in 91 seats. The election for 543 parliamentary seats will be held in seven phases till May 19 and the counting of votes will be taken up on May 23. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, party president Amit Shah and other top Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders will attend the central election committee meeting. All 42 seats in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana will go to the polls in the first phase with a fraction of constituencies in many other states, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Odisha and Assam, also to witness polling on April 11. Union ministers Satya Pal Singh, V K Singh, Mahesh Sharma, Giriraj Singh and Kiren Rijiju are among those whose constituencies will go to the polls in the first phase. The BJP is likely to take a call on their fate at Saturdays meeting. The Assembly polls in Telangana and Odisha will be held simultaneously with the general election. With Modi known for dropping a number of incumbents in order to beat the anti-incumbency factor, the saffron party has been abuzz with speculation over the fate of its sitting MPs. It has sought feedback from a number of sources, including the public, and has also asked its MPs to furnish details of the works they have carried out as it finalises its candidates for the upcoming polls. 'India continues to work with the UNSC's sanction committee on listing of JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist,' official sources said. (Photo: File) New Delhi: Undeterred by the recent setback at the UN Security Council (UNSC), India will continue pushing for the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) chief Masood Azhar as an international terrorist by the world body. They also said steps taken by Pakistan in the last few days, against terror groups are cosmetic in nature. "India continues to work with the UNSC's sanction committee on listing of JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist," official sources said. "India is disappointed with China. There is no bigger statement, half of UNSC co-sponsors proposal. Hold is not a block. India is optimistic," sources said on Saturday. India believes "terrorism is a major issue for China. They know a number of terror groups are based in Pakistan", sources added. "Terrorism is non-negotiable for India. We have the strong support of 14 members (out of 15 at the UNSC). India will show patience...We are cautiously optimistic that Azhar will be listed," sources mentioned. On China blocking Azhar's listing as a global terrorist, sources said India will show patience as long as it takes. On Beijing continuing to oppose Azhar's listing as global terrorist, government sources said there are issues which China needs to resolve with Pakistan. On Wednesday, China for the fourth time blocked the bid in the UN Security Council to designate the chief of the Pakistan-based terror group as a "global terrorist" by putting a technical hold on the proposal. The Chinese move was termed "disappointing" by India. Speaking on the United States' support for India, the sources said: "The USA is supportive of India. They have assured that Pakistan will take action. India also raised concerns with the United States on the arms used of which the USA took note. The US also appreciates India for sharing its position in real time. There are no takers in the US for Pakistan's narrative that India is posing a threat." There has been mounting global pressure against Pakistan to dismantle all terror infrastructure on its soil following the Pulwama terror attack, which claimed the lives of over 40 CRPF personnel. Pakistan-based terror outfit, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) claimed responsibility for the attack, which has seen the global community come together to support India in its fight against terrorism. Towards this, USA, UK and France moved a proposal in the UNSC to list UN-proscribed group JeM's chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. China, for the fourth time, used a technical hold on the proposal on March 13 - a move which has been widely slammed. Photo: Vancouver Police Trevor Leonard Smith Vancouver police suspect a high-risk offender, now in custody, may have had contact with other women in the city. They are asking anyone who may have had contact with Trevor Leonard Smith to come forward. Smith, who is believed to have used multiple aliases, was arrested Friday for violating court-ordered conditions. He has been convicted of a number of sexual offences, and the Corrections Service of Canada believes he poses a high risk of committing violence against women and sexual offences against children. Smith has been in Vancouver since completing his sentence in 2017. Crown counsel has approved six counts of breaching his conditions. The VPDs High-Risk Offender Unit has been monitoring Smith since he was released. They have learned that Smith may also be identifying himself as Trevor Landry, and Trevor Kevin Williams, says Const. Jason Doucette. Detectives would like to hear from any women who may have had contact with Smith since his release in 2017. Smith is bound by several court-ordered conditions, which include: not to be at any place where children and/or youth under the age of 16 years are present or can reasonably be expected no contact, direct or indirect, with children and/or youth 16 years of age or under report relationships and friendships with females not to consume or possess alcohol or drugs not to use or possess a computer system, including handheld device allowing unsupervised internet access. Anyone who may have information about Trevor Leonard Smith violating any of these conditions is asked to call investigators at 604-717- 0603. Relative mourning the death of deceased SPO Jan on Saturday. (Photo: ANI) Jammu: A Special Police Officer was shot dead by unidentified terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district on Saturday. SPO Khushboo Jan was shot by unidentified terrorists outside her house in the district's Vehil village. "Terrorists today fired on a woman police Khushboo Jan at her village in Vehil area of Shopian district. She sustained critical injuries and was evacuated to a hospital where she succumbed," said Jammu and Kashmir police in a press statement. She suffered critical bullet injuries around 2.40 pm and was rushed to a hospital where she succumbed, the police added. Police has registered a case and initiated an investigation in the matter. The MEA said the French foreign minister also informed Swaraj that France has raised the issue with the European Union. (Photo: File) New Delhi: French Foreign Minister Le Drian Friday held a telephonic conversation with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and informed her about France imposing sanctions on JeM chief Masood Azhar by freezing his assets. The External Affairs Ministry said that Drian informed Swaraj about the action taken by Paris against the leader of the Jaish-e-Mohammed, which had claimed responsibility for the Pulwama attack. Telephonic conversation between EAM @SushmaSwaraj French Foreign Minister @JY_LeDrian on action taken by France to sanction Masood Azhar, Chief of the UN proscribed terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammedhttps://t.co/7ZAbjmHW1C pic.twitter.com/ceg2FAjN7a Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) March 15, 2019 France sanctioned Masood Azhar at the national level by freezing his assets, the MEA said, days after China blocked a move to designate him as a global terrorist by the United Nations. The MEA said the French foreign minister also informed Swaraj that France has raised the issue with the European Union. "He reiterated that France has always been and will always be on India side in the fight against terrorism," the MEA said. On her part, Swaraj thanked Drian for France's "steadfast support" and said that India looked forward to continuing this cooperation on the anti-terrorism front. The action on the part of France was an expression of partnership with India and was in consonance with the global intent by responsible nations committed to fight against terror, including cross-border terrorism anywhere in the world, the MEA said. France, the US and the UK had moved a proposal at the UN to designate Masood Azhar as a global terrorist after the February 14 Pulwama attack, in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. Thrissur: A female M.Tech student from Kodungallur studying at an agriculture university in New Zealand was killed in the terror shooting at Al Noor masjid at Deans Avenue in Christchurch on Friday. The victim is Ancy Ali Bava, 23, who was residing near the masjid with her husband Ponnath Abdul Nazer, who works at a supermarket in Christchurch. Her death was confirmed by the relatives of Nazer at Thiruvallur near Madavana in Kodungallur on Saturday evening. Earlier, Nazer had informed his relatives in Kodugallur that his wife had suffered leg injuries in the terror attack and that she was undergoing treatment. The couple had migrated to New Zealand one-and-a-half years ago after Ancy first reached that country as a student. They married two years ago. The family of Ancy lives near Cheraman Juma Mosque in Kodugallur. Both had gone to the mosque for Jumma prayers on Friday and Nazer was offering namaz at a masjid at Linwood Avenue. Ancy was praying at the masjid meant for women and children at Deans Avenue, say the relatives. As many as 41 people were gunned down at Deans Avenue and eight killed at Linwood. The relatives here are yet to get any intimation about bringing the body to Kodungallur. Chennai: All roads these days seem to lead to Captains camp. No sooner did Vijayakanth, the DMDK chief, returned from medical treatment in the U.S., a queue of political heavyweights has been in place before his gates at Saligramam, with BJPs Union Minister Piyush Goyal being among the first to present himself with flowers and the alliance petition. On Saturday, it was the turn of Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami to pay a courtesy call on Captain and enquire about his well-being. The CM, who is also the joint coordinator of the ruling party, took along senior ministers Sellur K Raju, Dindigul Srinivasan, C Vijayabaskar and Kadambur Raju with him to share warmth with the DMDK chief and pose for pictures. After much haggling over seats and parallel negotiations with the rival DMK for alliance, the DMDK finally agreed last Sunday to settle down for four seats in the AIADMK-BJP camp as part of the UPA in Tamil Nadu. New Delhi: After weeks of dithering, the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) are learnt to have agreed in-principal to form a pre-poll alliance for the seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi. Both the parties will fight on three seats each, while one seat will be contested jointly by fielding a common independent candidate. Sources privy to developments said that the final approval to the decision will be given by Congress core group and a formal announcement is likely on Sunday. Polling for citys seven Lok Sabha seats, all currently held by the BJP, will take place on May 12. The Congress is learnt to have kept the New Delhi, Chandni Chowk and North West Delhi seats with itself, while the seats of North East Delhi, South Delhi and East Delhi have been allotted to the AAP. The remaining West Delhi seat is likely to be allotted to an independent candidate who would be jointly selected by both the parties, sources informed. Sources said that despite objection by Delhi Congress chief Sheila Dikshit, the Congress agreed to enter into an arrangement with the AAP with a pre-condition that the Arvind Kejriwal-led party will not insist on an alliance in other states. The Congress and the AAP are pitted against each other in Punjab. The two parties alliance in Delhi comes as a surprise, especially after party chief Rahul Gandhi had last week asked booth level workers to ensure victory of party candidates on all seven seats. Sources said that Congress Delhi in-charge P.C. Chacko is learnt to have played a major role in the change in the partys stand, as a majority of city party workers when asked about their opinion on the alliance proposal through the partys Shakti app are said to have given their approval to the a tie-up with the AAP. It is learnt that the party high command reconsidered its stand on alliance with the AAP after receiving a positive feedback from party workers. Mr Chacko had publicly said that the alliance should happen, though he had added that the final call would be that of Mr Gandhi. Interestingly, the change in partys stand is likely to leave Ms Dikshi, who recently took over as the city Congress chief, on a sticky wicket. She was the CM in Delhi when the AAP was formed in 2013 amid allegations of corruption in the city government. Hyderabad: Hyderabad native Ahmed Iqbal Jahangir is recuperating in the intensive care unit of a hospital in Christchurch, after sustaining injuries in Fridays shooting at two mosques. His relatives who flew in from Australia put up a video showing Mr Iqbal doing a salaam to his mother, following reports that he had succumbed to his injuries. His brother Mohammed Tanveer, who stays in Australia, rushed to New Zealand and is attending on Mr Ahmed in the hospital. Mr Jamshed Jahangir, who stays in Hyderabad, said, Iqbal is fine and underwent a second operation early on Saturday morning. We have been in touch with his wife and the Indian embassy in New Zealand who have been updating us regularly. Mr Ahmed is said to have suffered two bullet injuries, one in his chest and another in his shoulder. Doctors performed surgeries to remove the fragments and he was stated to be recuperating. Mr Mohammed Khursheed Jahangir, another brother of Mr Iqbal Ahmed, received his visa on Saturday morning to travel to Christchurch. I am searching for flights and will be with my brother soon, Mr Khusheed said and thanked the external affairs ministry and MIM president Asaduddin Owaisi for their help in procuring the visa. The Jahangir family has relatives across the city who reached out to the family after hearing the news of the shooting. New Delhi: Despite being disappointed at Chinas persistent blocking of UN Security Council (UNSC) resolutions to designate Pakistan-based terrorist Masood Azhar as a global terrorist, India will keep patience and be prepared for the long haul, Government sources said on Saturday. Without elaborating, sources also said that there are issues that China needs to resolve with Pakistan and that India is not looking to do any deal with China to get Azhar banned by the United Nations. Sources further said that India will interact directly with China on this matter in future as well and that New Delhi does not require any other country to intercede with Beijing on its behalf. Government sources also said India would not rest till the UN takes action against Azhar. Government sources pointed out that 14 out of the 15 UNSC members as well as the entire international community is with India on the issue of listing of Azharchief of the Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammadas a global terrorist. Government sources said that for China itself, terrorism is a major challenge and that there are terror groups in Pakistan that target even China. Observers feel India does not want to sour ties with its larger eastern neighbour and does not want to wash away the recent post-Doklam gains made in Sino-Indian relations. Also, the second edition of the informal summit between the Chinese President and the Indian Prime Minister is scheduled to take place later this year in India. Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to visit India later this year for that Summit and New Delhi is apparently keen that this not be derailed. Thiruvananthapuram: After high drama and several rounds of deliberations, AICCs Central Election Committee (CEC) announced candidates for 12 out of 16 Lok Sabha seats where the Congress party is contesting. Candidates for the remaining three seats would be announced on Sunday as Opposition Leader Ramesh Chennithala said more talks were required to finalise names for Attingal, Alappuzha, Vadakara and Wayand seats. Sitting Ernakulam MLA Hibi Eden has replaced sitting Ernakulam MP K. V. Thomas. Interestingly, the group leaders ruled the roost in the final lap where sitting Pathanamthitta MP Anto Antony retained his seat despite strong opposition from the local leadership. Contrary to the usual practice of announcing the candidates at one go, this time CEC announced names only for 12 LS seats. In fact, the candidate considered for Attingal is Konni MLA Adoor Prakash, lone woman leader in the high power Political Affairs Committee member Shanimol Usman for Alappuzha and sitting Kozhikode DCC president T. Siddique, Malappuram, DCC president V. V. Prakash and KPCC secretary K. P. Abdul Majeed for Wayanad. Chennithala pleaded before the media that they should not use the word dispute as the CEC requires more time to zero in on the candidates in the three LS seats. But it is evident that CWC leader Oommen Chandy had purposefully stayed away from the crucial CEC meeting showing his displeasure. Only KPCC president M. Ramachandran and I had attended the CEC meeting. They require more information on Attingal, Alappuzha and Wayanad Lok Sabha seats. There has been no dispute in identifying the candidates, Chennithala said. Chandy had not attended the CEC meeting where he returned to Kottayam from Andhra Pradesh as he maintained that he had already held talks with Congress president Rahul Gandhi on the candidature on Friday. Chandy was allegedly peeved with Chennit-hala for not giving a chance to his loyalists, Siddique in Wayanad and Youth Congress State president Dean Kuriakose in Idukki. But at the end, Dean Kuriakose was successful in getting the Idukki seat. On Saturday afternoon after the screening committee meeting held at New Delhi, Chennithala maintained that this time the candidates would be smart guys and gals. But what has caught everyone by surprise especially that of the Pathanamthitta DCC leadership is the way Anto Antony managed to get back the seat to contest. For that Antony should be thankful to Chandy for not contesting from Pathanamthitta. Former KPCC president V.M. Sudheeran and senior Congress MLA K. Muraleedharan who is also the KPCC campaign committee convener are most likely to be considered in Alappuzha and Wayanad LS seats. Muraleedharan is the sitting MLA from Vattiyoorkavu. An indication was the 2.44 lakh votes that the BJP secured in the Mandya LS byelection in November last year although the constituency is seen as a stronghold of the Janata Dal (Secular). Bengaluru: Nationalism and patriotism top the agenda of young voters in Mandya constituency this Lok Sabha poll, stoked by the country's retaliatory air strikes against Pakistan post Pulwama. Popularly known as the sugar bowl of South Karnataka, Mandya no longer resembles a village headquarters with its shopping malls, engineering and medical colleges and showrooms of national and international brands that have changed the lifestyle of its people. Students from across India are now pursuing higher studies here and people from other states have moved to the city giving it a cosmopolitan feel. Like their lifestyle, the people's political views too have undergone a sea change. An indication was the 2.44 lakh votes that the BJP secured in the Mandya LS byelection in November last year although the constituency is seen as a stronghold of the Janata Dal (Secular). With more exposure to the world, those who never thought beyond the state, are now discussing the policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former President of the United States, Obama. This time as many as 22,478 first time voters have enrolled for the coming Lok, Sabha poll and they are keen to have their voice heard. Mr Anil Kumar, an engineering student, has no qualms in admitting that he will vote for Mr Modi on April 18. "Of course, I know Modi is not contesting from Mandya, but every vote given to the BJP will return him to power. The recent surgical strike on terror camps on Pakistan soil shows that India needs a strong leader like him. I saw Uri ten times and will vote for any candidate fielded by the BJP," he says. A medical student , Pooja S, believes that had the Congress addressed the problems of unemployment, farmers, Kashmir and poverty over the last 60 years, India would have flourished by now. "I am fed up with Congress president, Rahul Gandhi talking about the Rafale deal and Indian businessman. My vote is for Modi who has a vision for India," she says firmly. But Mr Nagaraj Gowda, a B.com student in a government degree college, is a hardcore fan of the late actor/politician, M H Ambareesh and has no doubt who his vote will go to. "Our anna would have given a strong fight to his rival had he lived. His wife, Sumalatha madam is contesting against Nikhil Kumaraswamy, son of the CM. I think the people of Mandya will vote for her. I would have voted for Nikhil had Sumalatha madam not contested, but my vote is for our Mandyada Gandu ambiyanna," he says. Ms Susheela, a BA student of the government college for women, is upset that when heads of other countries respect Mr Modi, the Congress president has no respect for him. "I feel one more chance should be given to Modi to complete his agenda of development," she contends. Says another student, Sridhar Suresh from Maharashtra, who is studying in an engineering college in Mandya, "Patriotism is in our blood thanks to Shivaji Maharaj. Modi may have failed to solve unemployment, farmers woes, problems of industries and introduced demonetisation, but he helped us become patriots when Pakistan trained terrorists were snubbed by our Indian Air force. Now our icons are Narendra Modi and Wing Commander, Abhinandan. My support is for desh bhakths and not gaddars." The parents, all of whom are either farmers or daily wage labourers, were able to collect Rs 1 lakh and purchase the required items, one parent said. Chennai: Its common to see parents shelling out large sums of money to ensure their children get a good education. However, parents at the Government Primary school in Urapakkam in Kanchipuram district presented the school with tables, chairs and other necessary equipment as kalvi seer varisai (gift to school). Dressed in silk sarees, parents and some teachers of the school, set out carrying trays with notebooks, pencil boxes and other items. Apart from the trays, two tables, chairs and three blackboards and a drinking water cooler, all together worth `1 lakh, were handed over to the school headmistress Indira Devakirubai. The elementary school in Arundathipalayam prepared to give the kalvi seer so that the materials can be used for the new academic year, they said. The parents, all of whom are either farmers or daily wage labourers, were able to collect Rs 1 lakh and purchase the required items, one parent said. Headmistress Indira Devakirubai, who received the gifts, was thankful for the parents efforts to improve the quality of their education. Parents are doing everything to make their childrens lives better here. We want our children to have facilities as good as the private schools, she said tearfully. Photo: Parks Canada Mount Kobau Parks Canada has closed the public consultation period for the proposed South Okanagan national park reserve. The agency says 2,740 online submissions were made and 36 meetings held with stakeholder groups between Dec. 10, 2018 and March 15, 2019 a window that included a two-week extension by the federal government. The Governments of Canada and British Columbia along with the Syilx/Okanagan Nation would like to thank local residents, stakeholders, and the Canadian public, who participated in the consultations, a news release Friday says. The idea of a South Okanagan national park remains controversial among local residents. Polling commissioned by a group opposed to the park last year showed residents of Oliver, Osoyoos, Keremeos and Cawston split on the proposal, with 76 per cent hoping for a referendum on the issue. Opponents to the park are concerned about loss of access to the backcountry as well as hunting and grazing rights. While formal public consultation has closed, Parks Canada says it will continue to engage with specific stakeholders and private landholders on the proposal. They have yet to hold any sort of public forum or town hall on the issue. Parks Canada says it is now preparing a What we Heard report which will be shared with the public in the coming months. The report will include a summary and analysis of the results of the consultation, which will inform future recommendations regarding the proposed national park reserve, Parks Canada says. The Women Commission of the State of Tamil Nadu had called upon the victims to lodge complaints with them and assured the victims safety and confidentiality. Chennai: An advocate, who is also the director of Prisoners Rights Forum, has filed a Public Interest Litigation in the Madras high court, seeking a court-monitored probe conducted by the CBI in to the Pollachi sex scandal in the state, in which hundreds of girls are allegedly victimized. The PIL filed by advocate P.Pugalenthi is likely to come up for hearing next week. In his PIL, Pugalenthi submitted that while transferring the two criminal cases from Crime Branch CID to CBI, the state government had carefully considered the letter of DGP recommending such a transfer. In the said G.O, the state government stated that "the DGP has also stated that the two cases were transferred to Crime Branch CID in his office proceedings dated March 12, 2019. Since the investigation involves technical issues including analyzing of face book data, I.P, Logs/addresses and internet usage logs, the communication with face book service providers and other internet service providing places in various countries, nature of the crime is extremely serious thereby demanding some specialized attention and requires more laborious and dedicated investigation with technical expertise". Thus, according to DGP, nature of the crime was extremely serious and the investigation demands "some specialized attention" and the cases require "more laborious and dedicated investigation with technical expertise. These observations of DGP appear to have been made on the basis of the investigation made into those two cases up to March 12, 2019, he added. He said the people of Tamil Nadu, in general, strongly believe that the victims of sexual abuse at the hands of the arrested persons and others were innumerable. The observations of DGP support the perception of the people of Tamil Nadu in general. The Women Commission of the State of Tamil Nadu had called upon the victims to lodge complaints with them and assured the victims safety and confidentiality. The National Commission for Women had already addressed a letter to DGP seeking an action taken report. The sexual assault suffered by a large number of young girls was yet to be deducted and the persons who have committed such barbaric acts were yet to be brought to book. It was unfortunate that the state has ignored the fundamentals of justice and disclosed the name of the victim of sexual assault thereby preventing other victims from lodging such complaints. Since the person mentioned in the G.O was not the only victim of sexual assault and since DGP himself believes that the criminal cases in question demand more laborious and dedicated investigation and since the offence complained of was worse than "rape", the entire investigation in to the 2 cases and other cases likely to arise deserves to be monitored by the court, he added. New Delhi: Taking Congress chowkidar chor hai barb head-on, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched a social media campaign #MainBhiChowkidar, asking people to pledge their support against corruption, dirt, social evils and to work hard for the progress of India. The campaign reminded many of the BJPs 2014 Lok Sabha campaign strategy around the Opposition partys chaiwala barb that had prompted the BJP to launch its successful Chai pe charcha campaign to connect with voters and register a landslide victory. The Congress often accuses the Prime Minister of corruption in Rafale fighter jet deal, using the barb chowkidar chor hai (watchman is a thief) after Mr Modi had called himself a chowkidar of the nation. In his four-minute social media video on Saturday, Mr Modi said, Your chowkidar is standing firm and serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a chowkidar. Today, every Indian is saying #MainBhiChowkidar. The video begins with Mr Modi saying Aap ashwast rahiyein, aap ka yeh chowkidar poori tarah se chaukanna hai (Rest assured, you chowkidar is alert). The BJPs Main Bhi Chowkidar campaign became Twitters top worldwide trend, hours after launch. The video shared by Mr Modi, featuring a song with lyrics showcasing the Modi governments initiatives, racked up more than 50,000 likes and 19,000 retweets on the micro-blogging website. Lucknow: Asserting that Priyanka Gandhis entry into politics will make no difference to the BJPs prospects in the Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh, chief minister Yogi Adityanath Saturday dubbed it an internal matter of that party. He also dismissed as false alarm the SP-BSP alliance and claimed that it was already embroiled in dispute. The Congress has made her (Priyanka) the party general secretary (in-charge of eastern UP) this time. It is an internal matter of that party as to how it will utilise her services. Earlier too, she had campaigned for the Congress. And this time too she is the partys campaigner and it will make no difference (to the BJP), he told PTI in his first interview after announcement of the Lok Sabha poll schedule on Sunday. Asked as to what extent the SP-BSP alliance could dent the BJPs prospects in the hustings, Adityanath said, The fledgling SP-BSP alliance is already embroiled in dispute. He was referring to reports of hard bargaining between the two parties over certain seats. It (alliance) is nothing but a hauaa (false alarm), the chief minister said in his exclusive interview during which he touched upon various key issues including the IAF airstrikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Ram temple. The 46-year-old saffron robed monk-turned-politician said in general elections state-level local issues hardly matter. People will vote for that person and party in whose hands the country is safe, secure and prosperous, he said, adding the voters know this very well. An effort is being made to whip up an unnecessary confusion and hauaa, the BJP hardliner said, adding the current polls will present a golden opportunity for his party, which will come out with flying colours. New Delhi: With ties between India and its south-western maritime neighbour Maldives firmly back on track, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj will be visiting the archipelago nation on a two-day official visit starting Saturday. India is already extending financial assistance to the Maldives under the Government of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Ties between the two neighbours had soured considerably last year during the tenure of then president Abdulla Yameenknown for his pro-China policieswho was subsequently defeated in the presidential polls there last year. Meanwhile, in a statement on Saturday, the MEA said, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, will be paying a visit to Male, Maldives from 17-18 March 2019 at the invitation of H.E. Mr Abdulla Shahid, Foreign Minister of Maldives. She will be accompanied by Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and other senior officials. During her visit, she will have bilateral meeting with Foreign Minister Shahid, delegation level meetings with the Minister of Def-ence among others. Hyderabad: Twelve victims who went to Iraq to work there have been subjected to forced labour, verbal abuse, and threats. The victims claimed that they reached Iraq eight months ago and although initially, for the first three months, they were being paid for their work on time, eventually, their payments stopped coming in. When they happened to question the owner about it, the owners son threatened to shoot them and consequently, subjected them to forced labour. Thereafter, they have been held in captivity. Ganga Srinivas, while explaining the ordeal that he is undergoing in Iraq, said, This is the second time that Ive visited Iraq. I came here in the month of April last year to work in a fiberglass boat manufacturing company under the contract company named Al Maysoora Trading, which is based in Basra city in Iraq. We have not been paid since October. We have tried to request our owner several times to clear our payments but to no avail. To protest the injustice, we stopped working on February 23. He said, He called us and convinced us that he would clear our dues in a few days. However, a few days later, his son Ali showed up along with his friends at our residence in Iraq. They held us at gunpoint and terrorised us to work for them. Therefore, were now very afraid to ask the owner to clear our dues. According to the victims, when they approached the embassy for support, the owner threatened them to implicate them in false cases and send them behind bars if they did so again. He added that a total of 12 persons from Telangana state are currently held in captivity and do not have the money to come back. Out of the 12, four individuals visas expired on March 11, 2019, and the other eight persons visas are going to expire in the month of June. The victims have requested external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj and TS Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao to come to their rescue. Mr Chakali Rajeshwar from Armoor, Nizamabad district, who has a wife and three kids ages 15, 12, and 9, and is stuck in Iraq, said, They have not been paying us for five months now. We dont even have money to buy food. What makes matters worse is that they have been terrorizing us with weapons. I havent been able to send money back home to pay the installments of a loan which I have taken, or to pay my childrens school fees, due to which my children are not being allowed to attend school now. We are working in slaughterhouses and cold storages to get by. We have lost all hope. Ambulance staff take a man from outside a mosque in central Christchurch, New Zealand, Friday, March 15, 2019. A witness says many people have been killed in a mass shooting at a mosque in the New Zealand city of Christchurch.(Photo: AP) Hyderabad, Christchurch: Two persons from Hyderabad were killed in the horrific massacre at Al Noor mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand, on Friday. New Zealand authorities have released a list of 35 victims, in which the names of Mohammed Imran Khan and Farhaj Ahsan were included. Both were staying in Christchurch with their families. Ahsan had been listed missing after the shooting on Friday. There was a third confirmed victim from India. A report from Thrissur said an MTech student from Kodungallur, Kerala, studying at an agriculture university in New Zealand was killed in the terror shooting at the mosque at Deans Avenue. The victim, Ancy Ali Bava, 23, used to stay near the mosque with her husband Ponnath Abdul Nazer, who works at a supermarket in Christchurch. Her death was confirmed by Mr Nazers relatives at Thiruvallur near Madavana in Kodungallur on Saturday evening. Lucknow: General Secretary of HD Deve Gowda's Janata Dal (Secular), Danish Ali made a surprising move on Saturday joined Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). He was welcomed in the party by senior BSP leader Satish Chandra Mishra. It is likely that Danish Ali is fielded for the Lok Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh. After joining BSP, Danish Ali said, JD(S) doesn't have a large orga structure in UP. Despite all my efforts I could not have raised it in my 'janmabhoomi, my 'karmabhoomi'....The way in which there is a threat to constitution today, it has become essential to use our energy with a strong leadership. I never asked for anything even when I was in JD(S), it was upto HD Deve Gowda ji to decide what work to assign me. I have come here after taking the blessings and permission of Deve Gowda ji. I will work wherever Behen ji assigns me, Ali added. Mayawati would decide his role in the party, Mishra said. Jaitley was referring to Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who has been recently appointed as Congress general secretary in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh. (Photo: File) New Delhi: "One failed. The other won't take-off", Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said on Friday as he took a jibe on the entry of Priyanka Gandhi into politics. Generation after generation, the Congress Party's leadership berth is reserved for a member of the preferred family, he said as he traced the post-independence history of the party from Jawaharlal Nehru to Indira Gandhi to Sanjay Gandhi to Rajiv Gandhi. Continuing the series of his blogs on ''Agenda 2019'', he said the Congress tried to remove itself from the shackles of dynasty for a brief period after the unfortunate assassination of Rajiv Gandhi but could not get out of its clutches for long. "Smt. Sonia Gandhi then took over as the longest serving President of the Indian National Congress and thereafter passed on the leadership baton of the Party to her son Rahul Gandhi. Thus, generation after generation, the Congress Party's leadership berth is reserved for a member of the preferred family. When the Party is now in doldrums, another member of the family has entered the scene," said the senior BJP leader who is in-charge of party's publicity committee. Jaitley was referring to Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who has been recently appointed as Congress general secretary in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh. The Finance Minister further said: "The key question is - will the dynastic parties learn from their 2014 drubbing and a possible defeat in 2019? "Possibly not. It is here that the people of India will have to bring about a change. India is not a monarchy. Neither is it a kingdom or dynastic democracy. Dynasts disapprove persons of talent and merit." "The real strength of democracy will be realised when myth of dynasties is finally buried and these parties are taken over by men of competence and merit. That will provide Indians with a better choice, he said. The another curious feature, he said, is that most families where a single dynast created the party, have moved into the next generation. "In the next generation, there may be more than one heir. Both the heirs become aspirational and, therefore, the parent dynast distributes the largesse. But recent history has proved otherwise," Jaitley said. He added that Chinese philosopher Confucius had rightly said that just as there can be only one sun in the sky, there can be only one emperor on the Earth. "Where power sharing between successor dynasts takes place, who is the ultimate emperor?," he wondered as he highlighted instances of family-based political parties in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh. In Karnataka, he said there is an experiment of sons sharing the state and the grandsons sharing the Centre, and in Maharashtra, the initial ripples have started. "The Congress has undertaken the same experiment. It believes that two owners are better than one. Will Confucius be proved right and history record that one eventually prevailed over the other or will it be otherwise. One failed. The other won't take-off," Jaitley said. On the other hand, he said Prime Minister Narendra Modi grew from an extremely humble background. He worked in the party organisation till he was inducted into the leadership and he had to work and struggle for the positions that he got. "He earned them," Jaitley said, and exuded confidence that Modi and aspirational India would together demolish the concept of families. "The real strength of democracy will be realised when myth of dynasties is finally buried and these parties are taken over by men of competence and merit. That will provide Indians with a choice," the minister remarked. Chennai: The Tamil Nadu Congress unit on Saturday urged its national president Rahul Gandhi to contest from the southern state for the April 18 Lok Sabha elections, saying he was first proposed as the next prime minister from here by the DMK. TNCC president K S Alagiri said besides contesting from Amethi in Uttar Pradesh, Gandhi should also select a seat from Tamil Nadu as he cannot be perceived as belonging to just the northern state, but "is seen as an asset of the people of India". Referring to DMK president M K Stalin first proposing Gandhi's name as the next prime minister in the event of the opposition winning the Lok Sabha polls, Alagiri said the secular alliance cobbled up by the DMK leader had the full support of the people. "In this backdrop, on behalf of the state Congress unit and the people, I request Mr Rahul Gandhi to contest from any one of the Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu. I am sure the (DMK-led) Secular Progressive Alliance will extend grand support to this plea," Alagiri said in a statement. He said Gandhi was "acceptable" by people as a leader beyond religion and caste and therefore, cannot be considered as "belonging only to Uttar Pradesh". "He is considered as an asset of the people of India. He enjoys the goodwill of all and has dedicated himself to the cause of unity. While contesting from Amethi in Uttar Pradesh in north, he should also contest from any one of the seats in Tamil Nadu, which is the southern part of the country," he said. Alagiri expressed confidence Gandhi will heed to the plea of the people of the state and select a constituency from Tamil Nadu for himself. By doing so, Gandhi will be seen as a leader "connecting the north and south," and receive grand public support, Alagiri added. The TNCC leader also flayed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for "failing" to keep up his promises on issues, including retrieving black money from foreign havens and doubling farmers' income, and dubbed the AIADMK-led NDA coalition in the state, which includes the BJP, as "opportunistic". Alka Lamba on Friday said it would be an honour for her to join back the Congress party. (Photo: File) New Delhi: Congress party's Delhi in-charge PC Chacko on Friday said that the party "will always welcome" back AAP leader Alka Lamba whenever she wants to return to the party fold. "We will always welcome her because she is otherwise also a member of the Congress family. She was the president of the NSUI. There are many people, who left the party on different occasions. When they come back, we always welcome them," Chacko told ANI. His statement comes after Lamba on Friday said it would be an honour for her to join back the Congress party. Read: AAP leader Alka Lamba hints at returning to Congress Lamba, however, added that she did not receive any proposal from them so far. "I have not received any proposal from Congress. I have given 20 years to Congress out of my 25 years in politics. When Congress and BJP used to fight in Delhi, people stopped BJP from forming a government in the state for 15 years. People were again looking for an option to defeat the BJP and Arvind Kejriwal did that," she said. "Now the talks are about the country. I have been seeing how Congress had done well in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh... Congress can perform well in the coming Lok Sabha polls, so to give strength to the party, we should now come forward," Lamba added. When asked about her decision to join the Congress again if she gets a proposal, Lamba said, "Congress has to decide that, an uninvited guest isn't welcomed anywhere.... It will be an honour for me (to go back) because I have given 20 years to Congress." Chacko believes that AAP and Congress can seek an alliance in Delhi, ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. "I had said earlier also that we should go for an alliance in Delhi. Best way to defeat BJP is to have an alliance with AAP in Delhi. I and many other people are of this opinion. When the party president takes a decision then everybody will follow that opinion," he said. Photo: The Canadian Press Unbowed by a congressional rebuke, President Donald Trump issued the first veto of his presidency on Friday in a demonstration that he is not through fighting for his signature campaign promise, which stands largely unfulfilled 18 months before voters decide whether to grant him another term. Trump rejected an effort by Congress to block the emergency declaration he'd used to circumvent lawmakers as he tried to shake loose funds for his long-promised wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. The monthslong confrontation now moves to the courts, but not before marking a new era of divided government in Washington and Republicans' increasing independence from the White House. "Congress has the freedom to pass this resolution," Trump said, "and I have the duty to veto it." A dozen defecting Republicans joined Senate Democrats in approving the joint resolution on Thursday as both parties strained to exert their power in new ways. It is unlikely that Congress will have the two-thirds majority required to override Trump's veto, though House Democrats will try nonetheless on March 26. Despite the reproach, Trump seized the opportunity to publicly rebuff Congress and show his commitment to the border wall. In embracing the opportunity to deploy the constitutional power of the veto for the first time, he treated the occasion with all the traditional pomp of a bill-signing. Trump was surrounded in the Oval Office by supporters, including law enforcement officials and the parents of children killed by people in the country illegally, who offered profuse thanks and frequent applause. Trump dramatically signed his veto message and then held the document up for the cameras to capture. Trump wants to use the emergency order to divert billions of federal dollars earmarked for defence spending toward the southern border wall. It still faces several legal challenges from Democratic state attorneys general and environmental groups who argue the emergency declaration was unconstitutional. Those cases could prevent Trump from diverting extra money to barrier construction for months or longer. American Civil Liberties Union, which filed one of the challenges, said the veto is meaningless, like the declaration in the first place. "Congress has rejected the president's declaration, and now the courts will be the ultimate arbiter of its legality. We look forward to seeing him in court and to the shellacking that he will receive at the hands of an independent judiciary," said Executive Director Anthony Romero. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called Trump's veto a "lawless power grab" and railed that, even after both chambers tried to stop him, Trump "has chosen to continue to defy the Constitution, the Congress and the will of the American people." Trump, however, insisted the situation on the southern border is "a tremendous national emergency," adding, "our immigration system is stretched beyond the breaking point." Many lawmakers said Thursday's vote was not necessarily a rejection of the president or the wall, but protections against future presidents namely a Democrat who might want to declare an emergency on climate change, gun control or any number of other issues. It was the first direct challenge to the 1976 National Emergencies Act, just as a Wednesday vote on Yemen was the first time Congress invoked the decades-old War Powers Act to try to rein in a president. That resolution seeking to end U.S. backing for the Saudi Arabian-led coalition fighting in Yemen was approved in the aftermath of the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul and is expected to be the subject of Trump's second veto. Despite the embarrassing defections of the 12 GOP senators, Trump's grip on the party remains strong and the White House made it clear that Republicans resisting Trump could face political consequences. Ahead of the voting, Trump framed the issue as with-him-or-against-him on border security, a powerful argument with many. But Friday, Trump said he had sympathy for the Republicans who voted against him and emphasized that he never truly twisted the arms of lawmakers, because he knew there were not enough votes to override the veto. "Look, they were doing what they have to do," Trump said, insisting he "put no pressure" on lawmakers to vote against the resolution because he realized that the measure was likely to pass. Still, a White House official said Trump won't forget when senators who opposed him want him to attend fundraisers or provide other help. The official was not authorized to speak publicly on internal deliberations so spoke on condition of anonymity. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump painted his usual portrait of a lawless and violent border. He cited "thousands and thousands" of gang arrests and claimed many of the asylum seekers released into the U.S. were "stone-cold killers," ignoring data that shows immigrants are less likely to commit crime. He noted, correctly, a spike in the number of people coming to the border to claim asylum. Trump initiated the showdown months ago when he all but dared Congress not to give him the $5.7 billion he was demanding to build the U.S.-Mexico wall, by threatening a federal government shutdown. Congress declined and the result was the longest shutdown in U.S. history. Against the advice of GOP leaders, Trump invoked the national emergency declaration last month, allowing him to try to tap about $3.6 billion for the wall by shuffling money from military projects, and that drew outrage from many lawmakers. Trump had campaigned for president promising Mexico would pay for the wall. Bengaluru: State BJP state president B.S. Yeddyurappa met former external affairs minister, S.M. Krishna at his home on Saturday to discuss the party's strategy for Mandya this Lok Sabha poll and was reportedly advised against fielding a candidate for the constituency and instead support Ms Sumalatha Ambarish, wife of the late actor/politician, M H Ambarish, who may contest as an independent. All eyes are on Mandya this poll as Chief Minister, H.D.Kumaraswamy is hoping to launch his son, Nikhil, into politics from it. Responding to Mr Krishna's advice, Mr. Yeddyurappa is said to have assured him that he would take a decision in the matter after discussing it with the party's central leadership. Speaking to reporters after his meeting with the veteran leader, who joined the BJP a few years ago after spending decades with the Congress, Mr Yeddyurappa said he had agreed to campaign for the party's candidates in Bengaluru North, Central, South and Rural, Hassan, Kolar, Tumakuru, Chikkaballapura, Shivamogga, and Udupi- Chikamagaluru. "We discussed the present political situation in the state, including Mandya and the probable candidates for the 28 Lok Sabha constituencies. Mr. Krishna has given valuable suggestions, which will help us design our campaign strategies," he said, adding that the party would take a decision on Mandya once Ms Sumalatha Ambarish announced her plans. Taking on Mr Kumaraswamy for his criticism of Mr Krishna, he said as a Chief Minister he expected better from him. "It is not right to make such remarks about tall leaders like Mr. Krishna," he admonished. Mr. Krishna, who was also present, said he was confident the BJP would win 22 Lok Sabha seats from Karnataka this poll. Hyderabad: Leader of Opposition in Telangana Assembly Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka on Saturday urged Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan to dismiss the TRS government which was acting in undemocratic way and recommend imposing President Rule in the state. Speaking to media persons on Saturday, Mr Bhatti Vikramarka said the governor should take action on defections by Congress MLAs as a guardian of the Constitution. The leader of Oppositoin said he along with a few other leaders would meet the Governor on Monday and later meet the President of India on MLAs defections issue. Mr Bhatti alleged that Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao was trying to eliminate the Opposition by encouraging defections of MLAs which is s danger for democracy. He said that the governor should take up this issue. He said the Congress would launch agitation against this practice in phases. On March 13, China blocked, for the fourth time over the past decade, the listing of Masood Azhar, head of Jaish-e-Mohammed, by the UN Security Councils 1267 Committee. The resolution this time was not moved by India but by a dozen-odd members, including veto-wielding permanent members France, Britain and the United States, but regrettably not Russia. Notably, Australia and Japan were among them, who along with the US and India form the Quadrilateral, perceived by China as an antithetical grouping of democracies in the Indo-Pacific. However, missing from it were the current two Asian UNSC non-permanent members, Kuwait and Indonesia. Thus, the governments spin that the entire global community was aligned with India against Pakistan and China might be hyperbolic. It may be recalled China did not veto the listing of the top leadership of the Lashkar-e-Tayyaba on December 10, 2008 by the 1267 Committee, including Hafiz Saeed, two weeks after the 26/11 terror attacks in Mumbai that traumatised India and its financial capital. It is possible the immensity of the attack, the loss of Indian and foreign lives, including those of citizens of major powers, made it impossible for China to defy the emerging consensus. Its also possible that the Pakistan Peoples Party government, elected a year earlier after the dastardly assassination of Benazir Bhutto, didnt push China. Then foreign secretary Shivshankar Menon, writing recently, argues while instinctively he felt the military punishment of LeT was necessary, in retrospect US actions like giving India access to arch spy-cum-facilitator David Coleman Headley justified restraint. Why then is China acting differently on the listing of JeMs founder Masood Azhar? First, it is a more assertive and less risk-averse China under Xi Jinping. Domestically he has ruthlessly consolidated power, even jailing possible rivals, creating a personality cult rivalling that of Mao Zedong. He has put China on a path to be a global power. India, which China has sought to contain since the 1962 Sino-Indian war, is seen as an obstacle to be countered with greater vigour while keeping open useful doors of trade and commerce. Thus, the relationship has cooperation, friction and even possible conflict conflated in even measure. Pakistan as an ally in this venture was elevated from a mere strategic military asset to a military-economic pawn with the unfurling of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor in 2017. The intrusion by Chinese military forces at Doklam two years ago was to test Indias close treaty ties with Bhutan. While the Indian military, by timely intervention, stalled that incursion, the issue lingered as reports indicate Chinese forces have bivouacked for the winter rather than withdraw to their winter quarters in Tibet, as in the past. The Indian diplomatic strategy rested, besides rustling up members co-sponsoring the resolution listed above, on using the Saudi and UAE Crown Princes to bring pressure on Pakistan. The Saudis and Emiratis are the key nations financially bailing out Pakistan with handouts of over $12 billion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi broke protocol to receive the much-berated Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at Delhi airport to lure a Pakistani ally into his corner. The return of downed Indian pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman in literally 72 hours by Pakistan seemed to confirm the clout of the US-Saudi-Emirati grouping in conditioning Pakistani conduct. There were two flaws in this assessment. One, Pakistan has counter leverages in dealing with the Gulf powers, being their last resource for nuclear weapons were Iran to move in that direction. Two, to obtain more than cosmetic concessions and, in particular, to have them begin dismantling Pakistani militarys core relationship with jihadi outfits. Pakistan must have demanded a resumption of the dialogue and a discussion of Kashmir, which the Narendra Modi government has avoided. It has instead resorted to a solution to the Kashmir imbroglio using brute force. The Saudi foreign minister probably carried that message. He returned empty-handed as Mr Modi cannot concede on a dialogue weeks before the Lok Sabha elections, when jingoism prevails in the aftermath of the Balakot airstrikes. A Chinese veto thereafter was inevitable as Pakistan would not want its terror machine to be degraded before getting India to the negotiating table. Listing by the 1267 Committee would have made it mandatory for Pakistan and other nations to disrupt the ability of the group to travel, acquire weapons, raise funds, etc. The Financial Action Task Force, which is keeping Pakistan on the Grey List, could punish Pakistan for non-compliance with the resolution. At that stage, it was clear China would not abandon Pakistan. President Xi Jinping additionally would hardly wish to give Prime Minister Modi a win before the crucial election as a weakened Mr Modi, even if re-elected, or a less aggressive new leader would be preferable. The Modi government also erred in assuming that the April 2018 informal summit at Wuhan had provided enough ballast to Sino-Indian relations to override the Chinese geo-political imperatives. In fact, Mr Modis personal diplomacy to defuse the post-Doklam friction may have been seen by China as kowtowing by the Indian government. The subsequent distancing by the government from the 60th anniversary celebrations of the Dalai Lamas arrival in India in 1959 would have supplemented the Chinese belief of India being an appeasing power. The Modi government needs to retaliate, though perhaps now unwilling to risk provoking China before the Lok Sabha polls. This could be through smart moves to convey to China that it has breached Indias core concerns about terrorism emanating from Pakistan. It could include a more open engagement with the Dalai Lama and participation in the 60th anniversary celebrations. Imbalanced trade is another element, although India must not breach WTO rules when imposing duties on Chinese products. Chinese phones have captured 71.2 per cent of imported phones share. But in pharmaceuticals, fertilisers and transistors the Indian market is important for China. The BJP government erred in not creating local capacity to counter these dependencies. India should join the US and the West in blocking Huaweis ingress into 5G technology transition in India. Indian lobbies will resist this but national interests and not crony capitalists must prevail. Former British statesman Harold Wilson had said a week is a long time in politics. China proved that by literally evaporating the impact of Balakot in the public discourse. The present Indian government has badly misread Mr Xis China; it is back to basics from May onwards. Post the Balakot airstrikes and the subsequent events that played out, a number of Pakistani commentators and strategic experts have surmised that there is no space for the use of conventional firepower under a nuclear overhang and, therefore, India and Pakistan should go back to talking to each other. Writing in the Pakistani newspaper, Dawn, Ejaz Haider, executive editor at Indus News, and a self-decreed specialist in defence and security, said, "From here on, there's nothing more for India but to understand the imperative of positive engagement through a sustained dialogue. The framework for such engagement is already in place. There is no alternative to talking and walking that talk. But that will not happen until we see the electoral contest in India and its results." If this particular conclusion from a rather long analytical piece by him represents the thinking of the Pakistani civilian or military leadership nothing could be a more flawed assessment. The premise that enigmatic nuclear thresholds do not provide flexibility to the Indian states to respond conventionally to the use of semi-state actors to perpetrate terror is a completely defective premise. It is a non-sequitur to even believe that India would respond by any other but conventional means to deter and punish Pakistan-sponsored terror. Unlike our Western neighbour, India has not nurtured a variety of venomous snakes in its backyard. As Hilary Clinton had succinctly put it, Its like that old story you can't keep snakes in your backyard and expect them only to bite your neighbours. Eventually those snakes are going to turn on whoever has them in the backyard. Rather than gloating over the two-day standoff with India and drawing the wrong lessons, what the Pakistani strategic elite really needs to focus upon is the trajectory their nation has taken ever since the mid-eighties when Pakistan willingly decided to become a frontline state in the Afghan jihad against the Soviets. For if Pakistan's claim that they are victims of terror and over 70,000 people have died in terror-related incidents (63,732 from 2000 to March 10, 2019 according to the South Asian Terrorism Portal https://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/pakistan/database/casualties.htm) it is not because of terror or terrorists being sponsored by any neighboring country but primarily because of the rather lethal pets that the deep state has nurtured in its own backyard. The question that the Pakistani leadership needs to ask itself is, why is Pakistan and not any of its neighbours grey-listed by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) that proscribes terror funding? This time around, Pakistan may have escaped the embarrassment of Masood Azhar being labelled a global terrorist because of Chinese benevolence but what it must reflect upon is why its nationals and organisations based in Pakistan are regularly hauled up before UN Committees to be barred as global terrorists. If a substantive number of the 63,732 people killed in terror attacks in Pakistan fell to the depredations of suicide bombers then Pakistan has no one but itself to blame. It is Pakistan that brought the phenomenon of suicide bombing to South Asia. Vali Nasr, in his book The Dispensable Nation: American Foreign Policy in Retreat, recounts that Steve Coll, the journalist and long-time observer of Afghanistan, writes that in the 1980s when the Afghan warriors were battling the Soviet occupation the CIA was desperately seeking someone to set off a massive vehicle bomb inside the 1.6 mile long Salang tunnel. The tunnel is a crucial north-south link running beneath a difficult pass in the towering Hindukush mountain range and blowing it up would have cut off the main Soviet supply route. In order to be effective the bomb would have to go off mid-tunnel meaning certain death for its operator. In effect the CIA was looking for an Afghan suicide bomber. No one volunteered. Suicide, said the Afghans, was a grievous s in and quite against their religion, yet fast forward to 2009, and there had been more than 180 suicide bomb attacks in Afghanistan. The Taliban had evolved to make Afghanistan an even more dangerous place. Who were the talib (students) who formed the Taliban? They were products of Saudi-funded Wahhabi Islamic madrasas that mushroomed in the border areas of Afghanistan and Pakistan. That is where young boys were transformed into suicide bombers through misinterpreted Islamic theology and self-serving fatwas issued by dodgy clerics. If, therefore, Pakistan argues that the Pulwama suicide bomber was a Kashmiri boy and not a Pakistani it still cannot escape responsibility of institutionalising the suicide bombing culture in South Asia that was alien to our ethos, discounting the Liberation Tigers of the Tamil Elam (LTTE) as an odd exception to the rule. If Pakistan is really serious about peace in the region as Prime Minister Imran Khan would want the world to believe, the answer to that does not lie in talks either with India or Afghanistan, the two neighbours who have been at the receiving end of the depredations and machinations of its portentous deep state but rather with reforming itself. For its own sake, Pakistan requires to dismantle the terror infrastructure that it has spawned; it needs to reclaim the ungoverned spaces in its territory, demilitarise its society and finally understand that the Kraits it has so assiduously nurtured have harmed Pakistan more than its neighbours. Insofar as India is concerned let there be no misunderstanding that Pakistan cannot bring India to the negotiating table with the terrorist's gun to its head. Every future government in India, irrespective of its complexion, would also be very hard put to exercise strategic restraint if Pakistan continues with its "business as usual attitude". The use of conventional assets, especially airpower, is undoubtedly escalatory, but what Pakistan needs to realise is that the threshold has now been surmounted. We are one step up the escalatory ladder in South Asia. Irrespective of how round one may play out, in any future engagement round one may not be the endgame. The writer is a lawyer and a former Union minister. The views expressed are personal. Twitter handle @manishtewari In pithy remarks from a think tank forum on Thursday, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj once again asked Pakistan to act against terrorists operating from its soil, and to stop acts of terror against India. She said Indias ties with Pakistan would become normal if these steps were taken. This was an elaboration of the line pursued by this government since a series of terrorist actions since January 2016 vitiated the atmosphere, culminating in the surgical strike of September 2017. Ms Swarajs unambiguous language is an indication India doesnt deem Prime Minister Imran Khans professions of peace as sincere in the absence of concrete action against terrorists. There can be little doubt that Indias stance against Pakistan has hardened since the Pulwama attack. Making the Kartarpur Saheb corridor operational if this were to materialise in the near future to facilitate the visit of Indian pilgrims to the important Sikh shrine will thus serve as a positive step at the people-to-people level. But it will not necessarily help in fixing state-to-state ties. The external affairs minister said Indias airstrike in Balakot on February 26 was against a terrorist camp, and not against the Pakistani military or civilians. But Pakistans retaliatory intrusion into Indian airspace on February 27 to drop a bomb inside a military compound was undertaken on behalf of JeM. There is a deeper implication that flows from this that the Pakistan government and state are inseparable from a terrorist outfit. Of course, Pakistan is unlikely to accept this, although the terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan rests heavily on official support, a well-documented fact. Even so, although India officially called the Balakot strike as being non-military and pre-emptive in nature, the Pakistani establishment is not likely to accept this claim as Indian air power was used beyond the Line of Control for the first time after the 1971 war, and India has officially not yet stated that Indian aircraft did not violate Pakistani airspace in striking a Jaish-e-Mohammed camp in Pakistans Khyber-Paktunkhwa province. The fact that standoff weapons from within PoK were deployed to hit a target inside Pakistan has been suggested only in media leaks. Apart from the rival narratives of the two countries on the Balakot issue, there is little doubt that Pakistan is mixed up heavily with terrorist outfits. As Ms Swaraj said caustically, if the Pakistan PMs gesture of peace and supposed generosity in releasing Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman is for real, he should hand over Masood Azhar to India forthwith. This is an entirely valid demand. If the JeM founder were to be sent to India to face punishment since Pakistan cant punish him, there would be no need to move the UN to sanction him, and Indias ties with China wont deteriorate since Beijing springs to save the terrorist in the UN Security Council. This image taken from the shooters video, which was filmed Friday, March 15, 2019, shows him as he drives and he looks over to three guns on the passenger side of his vehicle in New Zealand. (Photo: AP) The biggest attack on Muslims in a Western country in the modern age claimed 49 victims with nearly as many more wounded. It took place in the idyllic southern New Zealand city of Christchurch. The racially-motivated terror attack came though the barrel of a semi-automatic weapon as a white Australian man went on a shooting rampage inside one mosque and then drove to another to kill more Friday worshippers. The principal conclusion to be drawn is that terror attacks are the bane of the modern world and represent the greatest threat to peace and communal harmony. When a peaceful New Zealand is shattered by terror tentacles spreading so far down under, it comes as a reminder to all that in an interconnected world of today, nothing happens in isolation. The horrific event, in which the death toll was contained a bit by the bravery of one man who hugged the assailant and forced him to drop his rifle, is a reminder that no place is too far removed from the mainstream to be safe from race- or religion-inspired terorism. The motivation could be complex. When a white supremacist Australian goes on the rampage, it would appear anti-migrant feelings could be the key. The feelings against migrants and refugees are an incipient universal phenomenon sweeping into countries in what used to be called the "First World". For years India used to scream about the need to act against State sponsorship and terror factories without being heard until 9/11 happened and now all western countries seem to have become united in their stand against terror, both homegrown and imported. The other motivational stream could be Islamophobia, particularly virulent in the days of Trump in the USA, but more likely inspired by reactions to Islamist terror of the type that has often shattered the peace of the world in the new millennium. Attacks have spread towards Europe from its base in an arc from Pakistan and Afghanistan through the Middle East, and into Africa. It is a fact of modern life that no matter what footprints are left in the digital world about the thoughts of abnormal people, it still takes a lot on the part of the State, with all its intelligence infrastructure, to prevent lone wolf attacks of the type perpetrated by Brenton Harrison Tarrant in New Zealand on Friday. What sets the current attack apart from others is that it was performed for an audience on the internet, the grisly scenes transmitted live and viewed millions of times before the respective platforms could take the video down. But then the internet is the great modern factory of terror, nurturing the seeds of extremism of every kind and infecting minds with hate and violence, allowing them to feed off one another freely. With the first phase of polling for the upcoming Lok Sabha election less than a month away, there is bound to be considerable public interest in knowing the line-up. So much talk in the recent past has been about the emergence of two coalitions the incumbent BJP-led NDA and the group comprising its opponents whose largest entity is the Congress, which is still very much a nationwide political formation although its strength has diminished in crucial states. The BJP has already finalised its tie-ups with its basic allies. Roping in the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra, with which it has not been on the best of terms for most of the last five years, was far from easy but it did eventually materialise. The chemistry between the two is, of course, is not quite clear. Finalising deals with the JD(U) in Bihar and the Akali Dal in Punjab was a lot easier. In some cases, the saffron party stooped to conquer. At last it could also reach an understanding with the AGP in Assam, but this has left the AGP divided. So, the result of this alliance remains unclear. On the secular side, coalition-making is still in the works. This is principally because the Congress is dealing with parties that are streets ahead of it in crucial states such as West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and possibly even Delhi. It has finalised deals with the DMK in Tamil Nadu and the JD(S) in Karnataka. But behind-the-scenes talks are still thought to be on with the AAP in Delhi and the SP-BSP formation in UP. Mayawati declared recently that she wouldn't go with the Congress in any state. But politics is more probability than rigid geometry. The Critic says there are seven plots The Reaper says there is one The Dawn says heres another day The Twilight says its done. From Dont You Humsay Aagey Jao by Bachchoo If the earth were flat, we could still draw longitudes and latitudes across it, but there would be no time difference between, say, Greenwich and Andheri West in Mumbai. So, IST would be the same as GMT. But the earth being round, I stayed awake way past my bedtime in Mumbai on several crucial nights this week, watching the BBC for news of the votes on Brexit in the Westminster Parliament. Theresa May put her withdrawal deal from the European Union to a vote for the second time and last Tuesday, lost overwhelmingly. The next day she proposed keeping a no-deal on leaving the EU option on the table. This, her government argued, is a bargaining tool. It means that the UK leaves the European Union on March 29, negating all the mutual trade arrangements, obligations, etc that membership entails. There are several opinions in Parliament concerning no-deal. The hard Brexiteers are in favour of ditching the obligations to pay the EU the membership fee and abandon its rules protecting standards of goods, the environment, human rights and labour laws. They argue that the loss of more than 40 per cent of the UKs trade the share of the total which it does with the EU today would be more than compensated for by fresh trade agreements with the rest of the world. Its whistling in the approaching dark. Liam Fox, the minister entrusted with the task of forging these trade links with countries outside the EU, has for the last two years been struggling to get even one significant deal signed. The tarot card predictions on which these Brexiteers seem to rely may bring them comfort. Economists are unequivocally nervous. Ms Mays attempt to retain it as a possibility is based on the assumption that a no-deal withdrawal would hurt the economies of EU countries and hence the threat makes it a bargaining chip. Parliament didnt buy the argument and voted against the government with several Cabinet ministers defying the party whip and abstaining. The vote to take no-deal off the table was indicative but not binding. What it did demonstrate is that Ms May has lost all authority as a Prime Minister. Even lame ducks can swim, but her party has drained the pond and left her high and dry. The two votes on Tuesday and Wednesday leave the Brexit process in utter confusion. Some in Parliament are in favour of extending the date for withdrawal, moving it forward by a few months or even a year in the hope that further negotiations may result in a deal which the Parliament will pass. This is also a bit of wishful thinking as the EU negotiators have made it plain that the deal they agreed with Ms May is the final drink in the last chance saloon. There then remains the prospect of a vote in Parliament, which several MPs though not by any means a majority yet to hold a second referendum. The choices that such a referendum would offer the voters are being debated. They may be asked to choose between leaving with no-deal, leaving with the deal that the EU says is its final offer the one that Parliament has twice rejected or remaining a member of the European Union. Public opinion polls indicate that a majority would now vote to remain, though public polls preceding the last two elections have produced the wrong result. This poses a dilemma for the leadership of Labour, the main Opposition party. Its annual conference, where members vote on policy issues that the party must adopt, voted to keep both a demand for a general election and a second referendum as party policy. The leadership doesnt want such a referendum as it could and probably would result in a vote to remain in the EU. This is not what Jeremy Corbyn or those close to him want. They are Brexiteers who want to quit the regulations of the EU but remain in the customs union and some aspects of the single market. They argue that this would safeguard the jobs of workers while allowing a future Labour government to re-nationalise the railways and energy companies. This argument ignores the fact that many railways of countries in the EU are nationalised. Even within the Labour leadership and among its supporters, there are factional differences. Tom Watson, the elected deputy leader of the party, has recently gathered MPs who are in favour of Social-Democratic rather than Marxist policies around himself. In the Corbyn-supporting faction there is the Mickey Marxist phalanx which is desperately in favour of leaving the European Union arguing that it will leave the UK free to join with other countries in an anti-capitalist or at least an anti-American alliance. Asked to name the countries which would join such an alliance, the answer comes to none no, hang on, one: Venezuela. Russia and China may be anti-American but calling them socialist would cause a grave in Highgate cemetery to suffer a small earthquake. Perhaps a revived ISIS would join the UK in such an alliance that is if the country didnt vote again for a Tory government which wouldnt be subject to persuasion from Trotskyist fantasy outfits. We live, as Confucius or someone said, in interesting times. If there is a second referendum, I shall certainly vote remain. I dont think the threatened rise in food prices and the cost of Ibuprofen will affect me deeply. Unlike millions of workers in the UK I shant lose my job and a fall in house prices wont affect me as I dont own a house. However, if the UK leaves the continent, the colour of my passport will change from red to blue which would be tragic. I prefer red. Beware the anger of a patient man John Dryden Englands Poet Laureate (1631-1700) Indias accumulated rage and exasperation at Pakistan and its sponsorship of separatist terrorism in Kashmir has finally exploded. On February 26, 12 Mirage 2000-H aircraft of the Indian Air Force carried out an airstrike across the Line of Control and deep inside Pakistan, in its Khyber Pakhtunhwa province, hitting Balakot and Chakothit, targeting the main ideological training and logistic support complex of the Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorist network headed by Maulana Masood Azhar. The Indian airstrike was payback for the car bomb attack on February 14 on a troop-carrying vehicle convoy at Pulwama, in which over 40 CRPF jawans were killed. The pre-emptive strike by the Indian Air Force carried a message to Pakistan and its other non-state proxies and their offshoots, the Lashkar-e-Tayyaba (LeT), headed by Hafiz Saeed, the Hizbul Mujaheddin (HM), headed by Syed Salahudeen, putting them on notice that the Indian airstrike on Balakot was only a partial payback. More would be coming whenever required. The Indian Air Force and the Indian Armys Special Forces have declared open season on these radicalised terror groups, which constitute plausibly deniable reserves for Pakistans regular military forces. India would see to it that Pakistans terror networks would no longer be allowed to sleep in peace. Pakistan responded with an airstrike mission built around F-16 fighters targeting an Indian infantry brigade headquarters in the Naushara region of Kashmir. The Pakistani mission ran into an Indian Air Force combat air patrol built around MiG-21 Bison fighter aircraft. In the ensuing shootout, a Pakistan Air Force F-16 was shot down by an Indian MiG-21 Bison firing a Russian Vympel air-to-air missile, again regarded as outdated by F-16 standards. But the impact of the stern message sent by Indias armed forces has been deliberately downgraded by the countrys own political classes, who have demanded proof of this achievement. The country is in a frenzied election mode in which nothing is sacrosanct including playing down the capabilities of its own Air Force just to spite their political opponents in the approaching general election of 2019. That their actions also give sustenance to the Pakistan Armys campaign of anti-Indian falsehoods protesting injured innocence, and blandly denying any involvement in the Pulwama suicide car bomb attack, did not matter to some of our politicians. Pakistans standard policy of constant denial of facts notwithstanding, overwhelming evidence to the contrary has been supported by the false front of Indian politicians assisting Pakistan to exploit the situation to its own advantage in the information warfare battle being waged in international forums. This internecine political squabbling just prior to the 2019 elections is utterly contemptible and must be condemned in the harshest possible terms. The fallout of these shrill vituperative political debates has been utterly anti-national. The wrangling in the Indian media on the success of the surgical strike has only lent weight to biased opinion-makers in the foreign press. India is caught in a messy, slow-motion hybrid war of terrorism, a conflict in which the death by a thousand cuts strategy of Mao Zedongs Peoples War has been integrated with Zulfiqar Ali Bhuttos postulation of a thousand-year-war, to ultimately bleed to death, politically, economically and militarily. But India has decided to rewrite the script and fashion its own counter-stroke to go after the leadership and the rank and file of these terror organisations and eliminate them in their own lairs. The Balakot strike by the Indian Air Force has carried Indias war on terror inside Pakistan. The Line of Control is no longer sacrosanct. It is encouraging to note that the nations diplomatic initiative in starting a charm offensive for downsizing Pakistan within the international community is showing results, creeping forward slowly but nevertheless relentlessly. The invitation by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation to Indias external affairs minister to address the annual gathering of that organisation at Abu Dhabi earlier this month as the guest of honour is an encouraging indicator that these efforts are paying off. But other options to intensify the fight against Pakistani-sponsored non-state militancy also have to be put into action. And India too must put its own house in order. Television grabs of two loutish saffron-clad goons brutalising a Kashmiri merchant on the streets of Lucknow were shameful to watch, but it was good to see the general public of the city actively intervening to protect a Kashmiri citizen of this country and round up the rogues tormenting him. They are to be congratulated and complimented. The saffron of the national tiranga has been sullied enough by rogues and political charlatans. India must understand that a change is coming more rapidly than some people may think. In many ways, South Kashmir is regarded as a touchstone to assess the state of the nation, especially ahead of a general election that promises to be bruising. So it is heartening to see crowds of young hopefuls in Srinagar queuing up at the recruitment rallies of their own home regiment, the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry. The security forces, in which the Jammu and Kashmir police play a leading role during intelligence-based operations, are on the hunt for perpetrators of the Pulwama attack, more and more of whom are being eliminated. Over 40 personnel of the CRPF have been killed by terrorists. Their comrades are determined to exact vengeance from the terror organisations Jaish-e-Mohammed, Hizbul or Lashkar-e-Tayyaba, it does not matter. Finally, can India, a secular, democratic republic, create its own version of non-state entities to engage a radical theocratic state like Pakistan on the enemys own home turf? Can Pakistans motivational ideology of Ghazwa-e-Hind or Jihad-Fi-Sabillah now be reverse-engineered and turned upon its designers? It is an idea whose time may have come. Lok Sabha elections are starting from next month. Do you think the BJP will continue in power? The nation has made up its mind to re-elect Narendra Modi and the BJP-led NDA government under his leadership. I am saying this with confidence because I see the josh among the people for Mr Modi and the trust they have for his leadership. Also, our cadre is so charged because of the feedback they receive from the ground in favour of Mr Modi and the BJP-led NDA. The common man trusts him and the poor want him to continue because both have faith that Mr Modi can deliver and the NDA is the only alliance which has shown that it is dedicated to the people of the country. You represent the Gazipur parliamentary seat in Uttar Pradesh, a state which gave the maximum number of seats to the BJP both in the last Lok Sabha and Assembly polls. What will happen now? Yes, Uttar Pradesh gave us the maximum number of seats in 2014 and the people of the state continued their faith in 2017 when the BJP created a record with its winning tally in the Assembly polls as well. I am confident that UP will favour the BJP again in the coming Lok Sabha polls and that voters will bless Mr Modi. UP will give a significant push to the BJP-led NDA tally in the general polls and the NDA will bag more seats than it did in 2014. But what about the SP-BSP-RLD alliance which many political pundits feel can dent the BJPs prospects in UP? It is true that if one goes by the optics, this alliance looks strong in terms of vote banks. But then even voters know that it is an alliance of rivals and the ground reports contradict the optics. You (Opposition parties) might try hard to forget your own history but voters remember everything. But yes, how effective this alliance is will be tested when the election results are out. We all remember how many political pundits and their predictions failed in 2014 and then again in 2017 regarding UP. Many had predicted that the BJP can never match its 1998 performance in UP but voters rejected all these predictions as they had decided to vote for Mr Modi. All the calculations and arithmetic failed in front of Mr Modi and it will fail again, as I said earlier that people have made up their mind to vote for a Narendra Modi-led NDA government again. How do you see Congress performance in UP now that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has been given charge of eastern UP? My good wishes are with her and I also congratulate her for the task she has been given officially by her party. But the fact is that she had been working for elections earlier also. She was actively involved in the last Assembly elections in Amethi and Rae Bareli. She also campaigned a lot but then we know how the Congress performed, both across the state and in their own pocket boroughs. I think that if she sincerely starts working from now, then the Congress can see better results in 2024. What about the mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) of the Opposition parties? Does it pose any threat to the BJP? I dont see any credible Opposition against the BJP, whether it is the mahagathbandhan or a gathbandhan. The fact is these bandhans are very loose, they have no strength. The fight within these mahagathbandhans and gathbandhans is not to challenge the NDA but to resolve who can be their prime ministerial candidate. Your party has been facing flak over the Balakot airstrike and some political parties had claimed that this strike was not over the Pulwama terror attack but to play the nationalist card before the elections? I want to first ask these parties who was behind the Pulwama attack? It was the Jaish-e-Mohammad (a Pakistan-based terrorist organisation) which carried out the Pulwama attack. If the government had not acted, then these very parties and their leaders would have called the government a coward wo kehte hai sarkar main dum nahin hai. But I want to tell them that the nation does not function on what these kinds of people think or how they react. It runs keeping in mind what it is that people want and the foremost concern is always how its pride is honoured. What about the Ram Mandir? How come everytime there are elections, the Ram Mandir becomes an issue? It is wrong to say that it is an election issue. I am one of the many lakhs of people of this country who want the mandir to be constructed at the Ramjanambhoomi in Ayodhya. As far as the BJP goes, we had reiterated our commitment over the issue in our manifesto in 2014, which we did in earlier manifestos as well. But we have also clarified the options to resolve the issue, either through mediation or when the Supreme Court decides. We have taken the oath of the Constitution and are working according to it. The government has asked the court to give the excess land to the Nyas (the Ramjanambhoomi Nyas), and let the court decide. I would only like to request the Supreme Court that the issue should be resolved at the earliest as it is linked with the faith of millions of people You said that there is no credible Opposition but what about farmers unrest, unemployment, rural unrest and the recent 10 per cent reservation for general categories, which the Opposition claims that you were forced to do to compensate for wooing OBCs and dalits? The problem with the Opposition is that they give support but not without a condition, like they did for the legislation for 10 per cent reservation for general categories. A debate has been going on for many years that economically backward should also be criteria for giving reservations, no matter which section the person belongs to. It was a historic decision, which did not curtail or hamper the existing reservation policy because the government made sure of it. If you leave aside the Oppositions allegations over farmers issues and see what this government has actually done for the farming as well as allied sectors, you will get a clear picture. Like the Opposition says, the PM-KISAN scheme gives just `17 a day to farmers but for a small farmer the amount is seed money to buy urea, fertilisers and seed for his land. Look what is happening in states where the Congress won after announcing loan waivers for farmers. They (farmers) have been complaining that they got duped by the Congress. Just check the number of people who opted for a MUDRA loan or got skill training or benefited from such similar schemes. They(the Opposition) say there is unrest in rural areas but I will tell them to at least visit a village and see the transformation. Earlier, villagers used to say, Ye bharat sarkar ka post office hai or Bharat sarkar ka bank hai. Now they say with pride, Ye hamara post office hai, hamara bank hai jo Modi sarkar ne diya hai. Ask someone how he/she feels to finally get their homes electrified or cook in a gas stove or live in a pucca house. It is easier to criticise than to admit that things have actually been done in this government. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 16) The twirl that won hearts all over the world the universe, rather hits screens again. Miss Universe Catriona Gray has recreated her famous slow-motion turn to advertise Jollibee's ice cream brand called Twirl. The video, released by the Filipino fast food chain on Friday, features Gray doing a number of slow twirls in a white thigh-high slit gown. It has been viewed 160,000 times in less than 24 hours as netizens expressed admiration for the Filipino-Australian beauty queen and excitement to try the ice cream. Gray is the fourth Filipino to bring home the coveted Miss Universe crown, joining Gloria Diaz, Margie Moran and Pia Wurtzbach who won in 1969, 1973 and 2015 respectively. American supermodel Tyra Banks, international fashion magazine Vogue, and the rest of the world have gushed about her iconic slow-mo turn and "lava walk" during the 2018 pageant. READ: Catriona Gray's trainer reveals queen's struggle to perfect 'lava walk' Photo: Contributed The Vancouver Police Major Crime Section is investigating an assault that claimed the life a teenager on Friday night in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver. At around 9:15 p.m near the intersection of Jackson Avenue and Keefer Street a teenaged male was allegedly assaulted with a weapon before the suspect ran off. Several witnesses called 911, and the victim was rushed to hospital, where he later died. The male victim has been identified as 19-year-old Vancouver resident Dakota Saje Wildeman-McNeil. No arrests have been made. RCMP say this was not a random act and there is no risk to the public. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the VPD Homicide Unit at 604-717-2500 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. My trip to Bosnia was a part of my tour of the Balkan peninsula south-eastern Europe. I must confess that when I planned the trip I had little idea of what to expext from it and I did not expect too much since I had mentally told myself that former part of a communist regime Yugoslavia would have nothing much to offer of tourist interest. (Above) Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque in Sarajevo; (below) The cemetery in Mostar old town in Bosnia I was wrong and I ate my words as I spent an awe-struck few days in the region, marvelling at natural and man-made wonders alike. My first impression of Bosnias capital, Sarajevo, was that it was like a beautiful red painting, with the entre piece being the iconic bridge Latin Bridge that stretches over the Miljacka in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. For those interested in history, the northern end of the bridge was the site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria by Gavrilo Princip in 1914, the ghastly event that sparked World War I. Sarajevo was also the epicentre of the infamous siege by Serbia that sparked the Bosnian war. But that was a long time ago and the regions tourism industry definitely wants to portray a different picture of Bosnia as an important country in the region with its beautiful cities and a great paradise for nature lovers. Its buildings have been scrubbed clean, its historical monuments renovated and its government is now making fresh efforts to host another Olympic games like the winter Olympics that it hosted in 1984. The scintillating city I joined a walking tour to see the highlights of this vibrant city which is built in a valley and is surrounded by the alps with its emerald green hills. The gigantic statue Multicultural Man a nude man pulling the meridians of the earth together, with doves helping him in the job, is probably the most visited and photographed monument in the city. The statue signifies the fact that that despite the siege of Sarajevo from the year 1992 to 1995, the country is holding together very well. The Ugliest building now has the highest rent It might not be a sight for sure, but Sarajevos ugliest building, a Soviet era relic, now coloured green and yellow, draws tourists by the droves, many of who take dozens of pictures for their Insta and other social media handles. Im not sure what it looked like in the Soviet era but the legend goes that the government did not want the ugliness of the black-brown communist building to mar the festivities when the country hosted the 1984 winter Olympics, and had it painted green and yellow. The building has an unusual facade today with no particular architectural style but the fact remains that apartments in it get the highest rents in Bosnia! The old bazaar of Sarajevo Like most of the cities of the Balkan region, Sarajevo is a quaint, pretty old town with cobbled streets and tiny stores selling stunning handicrafts. Some of the main attractions in the historic old town are the historic buildings such as the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and the clock at Sahat Kula the only one that uses the lunar time which is how the muslims determine the time for their daily prayers. The bazaar is also the place to sample the distinctive traditional Bosnian coffee served in copper pots with a huge range of dessert delicacies. The bustling old town is a great place for people to smoke a shisha if you like it and to buy some trinkets from the shops along the lanes. The reminders of war One strange thing you will observe in Sarajevo is its streets littered with reminders of the war. Most of the streets are full of red rose painted on either sides of them and have at least one section which is damaged. A local explained that these damaged pieces are where the artillery landed and someone was killed on that spot. The roses have been painted in memory of the lives lost and symbolises love and peace. A tunnel of hope During the siege of Sarajevo for over three years, a 800 meters deep tunnel was dug by citizens from both sides of the city, which was used for passage of medicines, food and artillery. The tunnel took over three months to complete but helped the locals survive and the army to fight during the siege. Another place close to this tunnel is the Sniper Alley, which was the main street targeted by the army. MOSTAR Mostar, Bosnias second most pretty city is two-and-a-half hour drive away from Sarajevo and has many lush valleys, a sparkling river, many mosques, and churches. I had thought that my senses were already saturated with the horrors of war that I had seen in Sarajevo, but Mostar again punches you on the face with its heavily pockmarked buildings and streets. The main attraction of Mostar is Stari Most, a 16th Century Ottoman bridge that is aesthetically pleasing but difficult to walk across. It was damaged in several wars and rebuilt in 2004 and is the iconic symbol of the humpbacked bridge. Today, it is used by divers to show off their diving feats in the shallow river below the bridge. THE BLAGAJ TEKIJA monastery This 600-year-old Dervish mystical monastery situated at the base of a cliff next to the holy river, Buna, is a unique picturesque series of old buildings and rooms where you can see many dervishes of the Mevlevi order, spin into a dance and go into a state of meditation where they praise God. On certain days of the week, you can engage in conversations with them about sufism. I also recommend a boat ride into the cave near Buna. Bosnia is a treat for your eyes and senses. It has the Eastern Europes old world charm full of exotic cuisine and history. The writer is a travel enthusiast Last year, Vestager slapped a record 4.34 billion euro ($4.91 billion) fine on Google for using its popular Android mobile operating system to block rivals. Alphabet unit Google is likely to be hit with a third EU antitrust fine next week related to its AdSense advertising service, a person familiar with the matter said on Friday, with the sanction expected to be much smaller than previous fines. The European Commission in 2016 opened a third case against the worlds most popular internet search engine by accusing Google of preventing third parties using its AdSense product from displaying search advertisements from Googles competitors. It said that Google, which at that time had held 80 percent of the European market for search advertising intermediation over the previous ten years, had kept its anti-competitive practices for a decade. In response, Google changed the conditions in its AdSense contracts with large third parties, giving them more leeway to display competing search ads. European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager earlier this month told reporters that she was finalizing the case. The Commission on Friday declined to comment on the timing of the AdSense decision. Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Financial Times earlier reported on next weeks European Union antitrust fine. Last year, Vestager slapped a record 4.34 billion euro ($4.91 billion) fine on Google for using its popular Android mobile operating system to block rivals. That following a 2.4 billion euro fine imposed on the company in 2017 for blocking rivals of shopping comparison websites. The AdSense case may not be end of Googles EU antitrust woes. EU antitrust enforcers have asked Googles rivals if it unfairly demotes local search competitors, according to a questionnaire seen by Reuters, a move which could lead to a fourth case. Online mapping services and others could also soon be in the spotlight. Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. Indian Professor from Purdue University Shreyas Sen and Indian selected students Debayan Das, Shovan Maity and Baibhab Chatterjee carry out the research which say that the human body carries electrical signals well. Now these signals can be contained within close proximity of the body, thanks to new technology developed by Purdue university engineers. Someone could hack into your pacemaker or insulin pump and potentially kill you, just by intercepting and analyzing wireless signals. This hasn't happened in real life yet, but researchers have been demonstrating for at least a decade that it's possible. Before the first crime happens, Purdue University engineers have tightened security on the "internet of body." Now, the network you didn't know you had is only accessible by you and your devices, thanks to technology that keeps communication signals within the body itself. The work appears in the journal Scientific Reports. Study authors include Shreyas Sen, an assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering at Purdue, and his students, Debayan Das, Shovan Maity and Baibhab Chatterjee. "We're connecting more and more devices to the human body network, from smart watches and fitness trackers to head-mounted virtual reality displays," said Sen, who specializes in sensing and communication systems. "The challenge has not only been keeping this communication within the body so that no one can intercept it, but also getting higher bandwidth and less battery consumption," he said. Body fluids carry electrical signals very well. So far, so-called "body area networks" have used Bluetooth technology to send signals on and around the body. These electromagnetic waves can be picked up within at least a 10-meter radius of a person. Sen's team has demonstrated a way for human body communication to occur more securely not going beyond a centimeter off the skin and using 100 times less energy than traditional Bluetooth communication. This is possible through a device that couples signals in the electro-quasistatic range, which is much lower on the electromagnetic spectrum. Sen's group is working with government and industry to incorporate this device into a dust-sized integrated circuit. Through a prototype watch, a person can receive a signal from anywhere on the body, from the ears all the way down to the toes. The thickness of your skin or hair also doesn't really make a difference in how well you carry the signal, Sen says. The idea would be to create a way for doctors to reprogram medical devices without invasive surgery. The technology would also help streamline the advent of closed-loop bioelectronic medicine in which wearable or implantable medical devices function as drugs, but without the side effects and high-speed brain imaging for neuroscience applications. "We show for the first time a physical understanding of the security properties of human body communication to enable a covert body area network, so that no one can snoop important information," Sen said. The technology has received multiple patents through the Purdue Research Foundation Office of Technology Commercialization. This work was supported by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research YIP Award (FA9550-17-1-0450) and the National Science Foundation CRII Award (CNS 1657455). Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. Jalisco has in recent years been ravaged by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, one of the most powerful drug gangs in Mexico. (Photo:AP) Mexico City: Mexican prosecutors said on Friday they were investigating the discovery of 19 plastic bags containing human remains in Jalisco, a western state that has been battered by surging levels of gang violence. The attorney general's office of Jalisco said forensic experts were working to establish whether the bags contained complete bodies and whether the victims had been reported missing. Authorities found the bags on Thursday in a wastewater river in the municipality of Ixtlahuacan de los Membrillos, some 41 km (25 miles) south of the state capital, Guadalajara. Search efforts were suspended on Thursday night for security reasons and resumed on Friday morning, an official at the attorney general's office said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Jalisco has in recent years been ravaged by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, one of the most powerful drug gangs in Mexico. Fighting between gangs helped push the number of murders to record levels in Mexico last year, and violence has remained high in the first few months of the presidency of Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. The US, Britain and France are believed to be currently looking at the suggestions. (Photo:AP) Washington: The US, France and the UK are believed to be in intense "good faith" discussions with China to arrive at a "compromise", including on the language on the UN designation of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist, according to people familiar with the matter. On Wednesday, China blocked for the fourth consecutive time a resolution at the UN Security Council Committee on designating Azhar, head of the JeM terror group, as a global terrorist. The proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council was moved by France, the UK and the US on February 27, days after a suicide bomber of the JeM killed 44 CRPF soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, leading to a flare-up in tensions between India and Pakistan. If the fresh efforts by the US, France and the UK does not end up in the formal designation of Azhar, the three permanent members are planning to soon move a resolution for his listing in the most powerful wing of the UN which would be preceded by an open debate on the issue, according to people familiar with the matter. India had expressed disappointment over the Chinese stance and the original co-sponsors of the resolution had warned they will consider "other actions" to achieve their goal. While the internal consultations of the Security Council committee remain private, this time several Council members, frustrated at China's unreasonable stance to protect a terrorist, privately spoke to the media the negative role being played by Beijing. "If China continues to block this designation, responsible member-states may be forced to pursue other actions at the Security Council. It shouldn't have to come to that," a Security Council diplomat told PTI on Wednesday in an unusual tough warning to Beijing. In the last 50 hours, it is believed that the original sponsors of the Azhar resolution are having intense "good faith" consultations with China on what many familiar with the matter describe as a "compromise". This probably means Azhar would be designated as a global terrorist by the UN body, but the language of designation would include a language acceptable to China. China is believed to have suggested "certain changes" in the language of the terrorist designation. The US, Britain and France are believed to be currently looking at the suggestions. It is understood that there is back-and-forth exchange of texts on the matter. The three countries have indicated that they are willing to accommodate Chinese request for changes in the language as long as it does not change the substance of the resolution and it ends up designating Azhar as a UN global terrorist. But unlike in the past, the US, France, Britain and other members of the Security Council are not willing to wait for long to conclude their discussion with China. It is learnt that China has been informed by these countries that they are seriously looking for other options, in particular an open debate followed by a vote on a resolution to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, pretty soon. Not months, not weeks but days. This is the what Beijing has been conveyed. At the same time, officials of the these countries believe that China this time has been much more co-operative than in the past. But in case at any point the three countries get a feeling that China is not doing a good faith negotiation on the "compromise formula" that is being negotiated, they are ready with the other move. China, after its decision to put a technical hold on the resolution, has invited criticism and its stance has also resulted in an outrage in India. Beijing would have to calculate the risk of being isolate globally on the issue of fight against terrorism or signing off to a compromised language that would designate Azhar as a global terrorist, since except China, all other UNSC members supported the resolution. Getting Chinese support to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, at the UN, in any format, would be considered as a terrific accomplishment. The very fact that there has been discussions going on between China and the US, Britain and France, is considered as a positive development. Those familiar with China's working pattern are still not confident and that's the reason why they are seriously working on other options including an open debate in the Security Council, where Beijing might find it difficult to defend a terrorist in public. A Turkish man holds a placard as people demonstrate for the people killed during the mosque attacks in New Zealand, during a protest in Ankara, Turkey, on Saturday. (Photo: AP) Christchurch: A right-wing extremist flashed a white power gesture as he faced the first of many murder charges in a New Zealand court on Saturday, while a shellshocked community dug graves for 49 mosque-goers he stands accused of slaying. Australia-born, 28-year-old Brenton Tarrant stood largely impassive in the dock wearing handcuffs and a white prison smock, as the judge read the first of what are expected to be a host of murder charges that could mean he dies in jail. Flanked by armed police, the former personal fitness trainer gestured an upside-down okay, a symbol used by white power groups worldwide. He did not request bail and was taken into custody until his next court appearance which was scheduled for April 5. Outside the courtroom, Christchurch residents struggled to deal with the aftermath of what is thought to be the worst act of terror against Muslims in the West. At an old gravesite, excavators were called in to remove the vast amount of earth needed to bury the dead, although police have not yet been able to release the bodies to anxious families. At the nearby hospital, doctors worked round the clock to treat 39 people for gunshot wounds and other injuries sustained in the attacks. The wounded included a two-year-old boy and a four-year-old girl. The attack on the Al Noor and Linwood mosques has prompted an outpouring of grief and deep shock in this usually peaceful country, which prides itself on welcoming refugees fleeing violence or persecution. Throughout the day people laid flowers at a makeshift memorial just beyond the police cordon around the Al Noor mosque, where most of the victims died. Many were accompanied with handwritten letters laden with sadness and disbelief, from residents of what one local driver called the city of sorrow. I am so sorry that you were not safe here. Our hearts are breaking for your loss, read one of the notes marked with a string of x-kisses. How does it feel to be staring at vast emptiness, with nothing but multi-hued barren mountains ringing the horizon, and a few raging streams swollen with glacial waters that you will need to soon negotiate, in front of you, knowing fully well that there could be no single human being in a cool 100 km around you? We had this experience recently, when we crossed the Highlands of Iceland, from the north to south. Greenery of Landmannalaugar, Highlands of Iceland. Iceland ranks as the eighth least-populated territory in the world, with a population density of a mere 3.24 persons per square kilometre. Of the total population of 3.35 lakh, 36% live in the capital city of Reykjavik. Even though the Highlands of Iceland cover the majority of land area in Iceland, it does not have any permanent residents, because of the inhospitable terrain. The roads (or rather, the tracks) in the Highlands remain closed for about eight months of a year. Most of the roads in the Highlands are designated as F roads, on which only 4x4 WD vehicles are allowed to ply. Of the nearly two million tourists to Iceland (2016 figures), a miniscule ever venture into the Highlands. The Highland. There are two north-south Highland routes in Iceland, the Kjolur route (on the west), and Sprengisandur (at the centre). We chose to do the latter, which is the more difficult one. F26 is the route generally considered to be Sprengisandur. We decided to make the journey a little more exciting by starting from Akureyri on F821, which is a lot more tougher to negotiate, and later join F26. It was very interesting to see how a normal road becomes an F road. For us, we started on Route #821 from Akureyri, and at one point, the road just lost tarmac abruptly, and a sign board instructed that only 4x4 WD vehicles are permitted beyond this point! On F821, we came across many tough spots where only the 4WD SUV could take us through. F233 and F261 are two difficult F roads that we later negotiated. Difficult terrain that can be negotiated only with a 4WD SUV. Rivers sans bridges One major hurdle on the Highland roads is the numerous rivers that need to be crossed without bridges! Some of the rivers are quite wide, and it is a bit tricky to estimate the depth of water. A few of the difficult rivers are equipped with a rope, marking the path you need to follow. On top of this, the car rental companies clearly caution you that water crossings are not covered by any insurance (which is a big risk indeed)! Another notable exception in coverage is any damage to the doors, due to high winds! The diversity of terrains that you encounter when travelling in the Highlands makes the drive highly interesting. There are tough mountain climbs, desolate plateaus of black volcanic soil, valleys ringed with mountains of various hues, absolute rocky patches, and even a few swampy stretches. Of the F roads we used, F225 was particularly scenic, on which the colours of the surroundings seemed to change every minute! Going from a populous place like India, it is indeed an eerie feeling, not to see any other human being for hours on end, in the Highlands. Even though vast majority of the terrain in the Highlands is akin to a cold desert, there are a few delightful places like Landmannalaugar, where you have lots of water and vegetation around. Consequently, Landmannalaugar was the only place in the Highlands where we saw quite a few people! A 44-year-old citizen of Ivory Coast disguised as a cloth merchant has been arrested with 32 kg of marijuana, which is valued at Rs 15 lakh in the international market, police said. Toure Mustafa would procure the banned substance from his contacts in Andhra Pradesh and Kerala and sell it to customers mainly students and young men from slums in an organised way. He would dry the leaves and make small packets of the powder, which were easier to sell. Police said Mustafa came to India on a business visa in 2015 and was living at Chikkanna Layout near Hennur along with his wife. He rented another house with the sole objective of storing marijuana, police said. He had told his neighbours that he is a cloth merchant. The suspect was previously arrested by the Narcotics Control Bureau, which reports to the Home Ministry. But he got bail and went back to the old ways. A team of the Central Crime Branch's (CCB) women and narcotics wing led by ACP Shobha S Khatavkar raided the suspect's both the houses on Thursday afternoon and arrested him with the booty. Two of his associates, however, fled from the scene, the CCB said. Photo: The Canadian Press) French yellow vest protesters set life-threatening fires, smashed up luxury stores and clashed with police Saturday in the 18th straight weekend of demonstrations against President Emmanuel Macron. Large plumes of smoke rose above the rioting on Paris' landmark Champs-Elysees avenue, and a mother and her child were just barely saved from a building blaze. The resurgent violence came as protesters are seeking to breathe new life into a movement that seemed to be fizzling, and get attention from French leaders and media whom they see as underplaying their economic justice cause and favouring the elite. Paris police appeared to be caught off guard by the speed and severity of the unrest. French police tried to contain the demonstrators with repeated volleys of tear gas and water cannon, with limited success. Cobblestones flew in the air and smoke from fires set by protesters mingled with clouds of tear gas sprayed by police, as tensions continued for hours along the Champs-Elysees. One perilous fire targeted a bank on the ground floor of a seven-story residential building. As firetrucks rushed over, a mother and her child were rescued as the fire threatened to engulf their floor, Paris' fire service told The Associated Press. Eleven people in the building, including two firefighters, sustained light injuries, as other residents were evacuated. Protest organizers had hoped to make a splash Saturday, which marks the 4-month anniversary of yellow vest movement that started Nov. 17. It also marks the end of a two-month national debate that Macron organized to respond to protesters' concerns about sinking living standards, stagnant wages and high unemployment. The violence started minutes after the protesters gathered Saturday, when they threw smoke bombs and other objects at officers along the famed Champs-Elysees scene of repeated past rioting and started pounding on the windows of a police van, prompting riot police to retreat. Simultaneous fires were also put out from two burning newspaper kiosks, which sent black smoke high into the sky. Several protesters posed for a photo in front of one charred kiosk. Demonstrators also targeted symbols of the luxury industry, as shops including brands Hugo Boss and Lacoste were smashed up and pillaged, and mannequins thrown out of the broken windows. A posh eatery called Fouquet's, which is associated with politicians and celebrities, was vandalized and set on fire. A vehicle burned outside the luxury boutique Kenzo, one of many blazes on and around the Champs-Elysees. Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said on French television that an estimated 10,000 yellow vest protesters were in Paris and another 4,500 protesters were demonstrating around France. He also said the crowd included 1,500 "ultraviolent ones who are there to smash things up." Still, the numbers paled beside the 30,000 people estimated to be taking part in a separate climate march that was weaving through Paris at the same time, according to Castaner. And the number of yellow vest protesters remains smaller than early in the movement, when it drew masses to the streets nationwide and polls showed a majority of French people supporting their cause. Since then, repeated rioting by the protesters and economic concessions by Macron have diminished public support for the yellow vest cause. Paris police told The Associated Press that 109 people were arrested in Paris on Saturday. Yellow vest groups representing teachers, unemployed people and labour unions were among those that organized dozens of rallies and marches. Protesters dismiss Macron's national debate on the economy as empty words and a campaign ploy to gain support for the European Parliament elections in May. Protesters are angry over high taxes and Macron policies seen as coddling business. Many protesters, particularly those on the political extremes, see the national debate as a failure. "As long as we don't get any results, we will continue (to protest) for all we asked for: pay rises, pensions, purchasing power, food waste. Everything," said Martine Sous, a protester from the Eure region west of Paris. While the rioters drew most attention Saturday, most of the protesters remain peaceful. "We are pacifists," Sous insisted. China on Thursday sought to defend its fourth technical hold at the UN Security Council to block the designation of Pakistan-based JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist, saying it would help the parties concerned to engage in more talks to find a "lasting solution" acceptable to all. The proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council was moved by France, the UK and the US on February 27, days after a suicide bomber of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, leading to a flare-up in tensions between India and Pakistan. The Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee members had 10 working days to raise any objections to the proposal. Just before the deadline ended, China put a "technical hold" on the proposal seeking "more time to examine" it. The proposal was the fourth such bid at the UN in the last 10 years to list Azhar as a global terrorist. Asked why China once again resorted to block the move, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang told a media briefing here that Beijing's decision is in line with the rules of the committee. China "sincerely hopes that relevant action taken by this committee will help relevant countries to engage in dialogue and consultation and prevent adding more complicated factors into regional peace and stability," he said. "As to the technical hold at the 1267 Committee our action is to make sure that the committee will have enough time to study the matter so that the relevant sides will have time for dialogue and consultation," Lu said. "Only a solution that is acceptable to all sides could fundamentally provide a chance for a lasting solution to the issue. China is ready to communicate and coordinate with all sides including India to properly handle this issue," he said. The Security Council 1267 Committee has clear standards on the procedures of designating terrorist organisations and individuals, Lu said. "China conducts thorough and in-depth assessment of these applications and we still need more time, so that is why we put forward the technical hold," he said. India Wednesday expressed disappointment soon after China put a technical hold on designating Azhar. The External Affairs Ministry in New Delhi said India will continue to pursue all available avenues to ensure that leaders of terror groups involved in heinous attacks on Indian citizens are brought to justice. "This has prevented action by the international community to designate the leader of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a proscribed and active terrorist organization which has claimed responsibility for the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on February 14," the MEA said. Without naming China, it said the UN's 1267 Sanctions Committee was not able to come to a decision on the proposal for listing Azhar on account of a member placing the proposal on hold. To another question on the Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping last year to improve the bilateral relations, Lu said, "Xi and Modi met four times. Particularly the Wuhan summit made great progress. China is full of sincerity and ready to work with India to build on the consensus of our leaders for greater progress in the bilateral relations." On the Kashmir issue, Lu said Chinas position on it is clear and consistent. "This is an issue that is left over between India and Pakistan. We hope that the two sides will engage in friendly dialogue consultation and solve this issue and other related issues," he said. A reported warning to leave India and the fear of being send back to the conflict-hit Myanmar has forced many Rohingya refugees living in Jammu and Delhi to head towards the Northeast and then cross the border to comparatively safer Bangladesh. Mohammad Sahjahan, who had fled Myanmar with his family in 2012 following an 'ethnic cleansing' had reached Jammu from a camp in Bangladesh via India-Bangladesh borders in Bengal. He lived as an asylum seeker along with nearly 1, 500 families in Jammu until a group of local youths asked them to leave India, otherwise they would be pushed to Myanmar, in December. We also read in newspapers that some Rohingya have been sent back from Assam to Myanmar. We got scared as we dont want to go back to Myanmar. They (miscreants) will kill us, Sahjahan told reporters in Agartala, soon after BSF detained him and 30 other Rohingya on January 22. They had crossed the India-Bangladesh border from Agartala but were detained by Border Guards Bangladesh. They remained stranded on the border for 48-hours before they entered India and BSF personnel detained them. A day later, another 30 Rohingya refugees, including women and children were caught while they were on their way to Assam from Tripura. They, too, were also from Jammu and had rushed to Tripura due to a similar fear. Nine more were detained in Assamsix in Silchar and three in Lumding earlier this month. Police questioning has revealed that they all had rushed from Jammu, Delhi and Hyderabad to the Northeast with an intention to cross the India-Bangladesh border in Tripura to avoid being repatriated to Myanmar. Assam minister and BJP leader Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday said that alarmed by the movement of Roghingya refugees, the state government alerted police to take action against them as per the law. According to our information, a fundamentalist group is helping the Rohingya refugees to come to Assam, he said. At least 12 Rohingyas were repatriated to Myanamar from Assam through the India-Myanmar border in Manipur seven in October last year and five in this January. The United Nations Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) has criticised the action stating that the situation in Myanmar was still not conducive for such repatriation. Thousands of Rohingya Muslims had fled Myanmar following an ethnic clash, the latest being the exodus of 7.20-lakh people, who are still taking shelter in Bangladesh, in August 2017. According to the Union home ministry, nearly 40,000 Rohingyas are living in India, mostly in Jammu, Hyderabad, Kanpur and Delhi. The UNHCR said that there are 18,000 registered Rohingya refugees and asylum seekers in India at present. Ravi Nair, of the South Asia Human Rights Documentation Centre recently told DH that many Rohingyas were leaving Jammu due to intimidation by Hindutva fundamentalists. Major newspapers in Kashmir on Sunday published blank front pages in protest against the governments decision to stop advertisements to two Srinagar-based English dailies. In protest against the unexplained denial of advertisements to Greater Kashmir and Kashmir Reader, read the blank front pages of the newspapers published on Sunday. The decision to come out with blank front pages was taken by the Kashmir Editors Guild (KEG), who also held a protest at Kashmir Press Club, Srinagar against the government's decision. Senior editors and journalists took part in the protest to demand revocation of ban on advertisements to the two English dailies. A KEG member said that the government was yet to respond to their queries over the ban on advertisements to the dailies. In February, the Jammu and Kashmir administration, under Governor Satya Pal Malik, had suspended advertising to the two newspapers without specifying a reason. While there is no written order, the newspapers say they have been verbally told by the J&Ks Directorate of Information that the government has decided to stop advertisements to their publications. The Kashmir Editors Guild has asked the government to at least explain the reason for stopping the advertisements to the two newspapers. The government is yet to come up with a reason, it says. At a time when the worlds largest democracy is readying for one of the major electoral exercises on earth, the Kashmir Editors Guild is lamenting over the continued denial and unexplained halt to the rightful disbursal of government advertisements to Kashmirs two major daily newspapers Greater Kashmir and Kashmir Reader, Kashmir Editors Guild said in a statement last week. The enigmatic decision is directly hitting the constitutional guarantees that encourage free media in democratic societies, it said. Former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti while criticising the government for blocking advertisement tweeted: Greater Kashmir is one of the most popular local dailies of J&K. Centres decision to stop ads to it should be viewed in the context of their attitude towards press & electronic media in general. Kowtow to their warped agenda & sing praises. Or else suffer (sic). According to the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA), the recurring losses in the Indian aviation industry are here to stay through 2019. CAPA estimates domestic full-service carriers to file losses worth $1.5 billion and low-cost airlines file about $200 million in the year. Do these disheartening numbers imply the number of Indian travellers flying is plummeting? In the same breath, CAPA also mentions that Indian aviation will shrink losses by two-thirds this year owing to the stability of fuel prices and low-cost carriers returning to profitability. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) also supported this expectation when they announced in early February saying, The Indian domestic market recorded the fastest full-year domestic growth rate for the fourth year in a row (18.6%), followed by China (11.7%). What do the numbers say? In 2018, Air India launched nonstop flights to Europe (London, Frankfurt, Paris, Copenhagen, Milan, Stockholm, and more). International airlines like FlyDubai and WOW Air (inaugural flight expected in June 2019) are entering India and existing homegrown airlines, like Jet Airways, are expanding their outbound destinations. The possibilities to fly abroad look brighter and affordable. An official spokesperson of MakeMyTrip says, We see a good mix of bookings for long and short-haul destinations with Bali, Dubai, Thailand, Mauritius, Prague, Berlin and other Eastern European cities being the most booked international destinations. Qatar Airways is probably the best example of this expansion connecting India to the world. The Middle Eastern carrier has relentlessly secured many awards (including 2018 TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Awards for Worlds Top 10 Airline, 2018 Skytrax Awards for Worlds Best Business Class, 2018 Airline Passenger Experience Association (Apex) for Best Overall Airline: Middle East) and continue to up their services and operations. They have recently launched QSuite (four-person suite-styled coupe in Business Class) from Mumbai and Bengaluru. Qatar flies from 11 cities in India, and most Indians prefer to fly to the US or Europe beyond Doha, Qatars hub. Singapore Airlines, which connects India to the other side of the world travel map, operates from six cities (Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru and Chennai). Says David Lim, general manager India, Singapore Airlines, Indians travel to Singapore and to onward destinations equally. Singapore Changi hub offers a convenient transit option for travellers going beyond to Australia, New Zealand, North Asia, Southeast Asia and West Coast USA. Within the country, metros continue to be hubs for business and leisure flights, though the rise of Tier 2 cities like Kochi, Jaipur, Madurai, Lucknow and Chandigarh are consistent. Sikkims Pakyong Airport was inaugurated in 2018 as a part of Prime Minister Narendra Modis UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagri) scheme. Better connections to smaller towns and cities mean more tourism for the region hence boosting the economy of the state. Flying factors A number of conditions contribute to prospective customers buying a flight ticket to their destination. A traveller takes several factors into consideration when choosing an airline, especially the airline reputation and its safety standards. Ticket pricing matching the standards of the services provided by the airline is one of the major factors, says Qatar Airwayss spokesperson. Concurs Raj Sivakumar, senior VP worldwide sales & distribution, Jet Airways, Operational reliability and convenient connectivity are of prime importance for corporate travellers. For leisure travellers or those travelling to visit friends and relatives, ticket price and connectivity are important factors. MakeMyTrips zero cancellation feature has boosted air travel and so far over 2.5 million users have purchased the product till date. The feature has aided travellers to avoid the stressful cancellation fee which can go up to 80% of the airfare (about Rs 3,000-4,000 for a refundable fare). These factors remain constant for both domestic and international travel. Business travellers drive the purchase of Business Class or First Class travel within and outside the country. And even in those cases, the reputation of the airline coupled with the services provided remain imperative. Offers galore New premium ventures like Vistara (Singapore Airlines and Tata Sons) is one of the many optimistic associations that the Indian aviation industry has witnessed in the past years. A majority of Indian leisure travellers are motivated by offers that various airlines and travel companies frequently hand out. Qatar Airways has flight deals throughout the year for customers booking online to destinations like London, Heathrow, Malta and Miami, amongst others. Singapore Airlines has special return Economy fares to Australia which start at Rs 40,000, Rs 45,000, Rs 50,000 from Kochi, Kolkata and Mumbai, respectively. They also offer a complimentary transit stay in Singapore for customers booking return tickets from New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco. Singapore Airlines also offers a $20 transit reward for passengers transiting through Changi till March 31, 2019, which can be redeemed at all retail and service outlets in the airport. With so many silver lines lighting the Indian skies, buying the next flight ticket to that exotic destination should only be rewarding. Photo: The Canadian Press Prime Minister Justin Trudeau participates in an armchair discussion at the Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association Annual General Meeting in Ottawa on Saturday, March 9, 2019. A senior government official says Trudeau is expected to shuffle the federal cabinet on Monday.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang OTTAWA - A senior government official says Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to shuffle the federal cabinet on Monday. This will be the third time the prime minister switches up his roster this year. In January, Trudeau moved Jody Wilson-Raybould to veterans affairs from the justice portfolio, which went to David Lametti. The prime minister made a few more changes earlier this month to fill the void left by Wilson-Raybould after she resigned from cabinet amid the ongoing SNC-Lavalin controversy. A few days after the mini-shuffle, Jane Philpott also stepped down from cabinet, saying she had lost confidence in the government over its handling of the SNC-Lavalin issue. Philpott had served as president of the Treasury Board. This week's top stories surrounded the Ethiopian Airlines crash, college admissions scandal and the vote to block Trump's emergency declaration. An Ethopian Airlines flight crashed Sunday just outside Addis Ababa, killing all 157 people onboard, including the crew. The jet, a Boeing 737 Max 8, was the same model as a previously crashed plane. Worries about a bug in the plane's system caused many countries and airlines to ground all Boeing 737 Max 8 jets until any issues could be determined. News broke this week of the FBI indicting 50 people, including actress Lori Loughlin, for participating in a massive college admissions fraud scandal. The plot allegedly involved cheating on SAT scores, having children pose as athletes and using bribes to get children of wealthy parents into prestigious universities. The story has brought up questions and issues about the privilege given to children of wealthy parents. Many have used it as evidence that working and studying hard doesn't always mean you'll be given a fair chance, perpetuating wealthy privilege and poverty. The Senate voted Thursday to block Trump's emergency declaration. Twelve Republican senators, including both of Utah's senators, sided with Democrats for the vote. Facebook announced it would be moving toward a more privacy-focused platform in the future. Mark Zuckerberg said he believes this is the future of the platform, but some say this is a response to criticism of Facebook's previous issues with Russian hacks. If state lawmakers need easy money, you can be sure the conversation will come around to putting the full state sales tax rate back on food purchases. No one seems to have invented a wooden stake effective enough to put a final end to that monster. No one seems to have an antidote to whatever potion some lawmakers took years ago that makes them see this tax as the shiny answer to their problems. Its not, and even if it was, making groceries more expensive would not be a good governance philosophy. It would hurt poor people. Perhaps, given the programs already in place to help the poorest people afford food, it would hurt the near-poor more than any other group. But that is a significant population whose success or failure affects us all. And no, giving low-income people a tax credit at the end of the year wouldnt make everything right. Utah lawmakers technically ended their 45-day session on Thursday, but the final gavel was more of a pause button. As Gov. Gary Herbert put it to the Deseret News, were kind of going into extra innings. This is because the Legislature failed to accomplish its main, stated goal, which was to reform the states tax structure to reflect changes in the economy. Technology and spending patterns have eroded sales tax revenues, the main source of money for most non-education-related state expenditures. The initial idea was to begin taxing a variety of services that currently reside outside the scope of the sales tax. The long list of these include barbershop services, lawn care, Uber rides, attorney services, architectural services, tax preparation and plumbing repair, among many other things. Once it taxes those things, the thinking went, the state could reduce its overall sales tax rate and still bring in the same amount of money only in a more sustainable, recession-resistant way. And because the economy is so good right now, lawmakers could go a little farther and offer people a tax cut. But then timing became an issue. When a bill finally was introduced to do this, less than two weeks remained in the legislative session. Also, the bill had been complicated by proposals for an associated income-tax cut, a 0.075 percent transfer tax on real estate purchases and a 1 percent tax on health insurance premiums. A variety of people, alarmed that they now might have to collect sales taxes for the first time, or concerned about what all this would do to education, came to the Capitol or called their representatives to complain. The governor and legislative leaders backed away and said they needed more time they would focus on doing tax reform in a special session, likely in June. In the meantime, however, reporters learned that Senate leaders had been prepared to draft a bill to restore the tax on food as part of an overall reform package. Back when Jon Huntsman Jr. was governor, lawmakers reduced the tax on food from the full 4.7 percent state rate to 1.75 percent. Ever since, some lawmakers have seen a restoration of that tax as an easy road to more money. Two years ago, Senate leaders spend a lot of time touting the benefits of restoring the food tax. When the next recession comes, people might stop buying furniture and cars, but they still would buy food, the thinking went. But then they got a report from the experts, and it said restoring the food tax would raise only about $175 million per year. That seemed paltry compared to the multibillion-dollar state budget, so they backed off. There is little reason to believe the tax would raise more than a paltry sum now, either. But when you consider the state this year is running a $1.1 billion surplus, making the poor and near-poor pay more for food sounds immoral. And yet, the proposal remains and likely will be considered by the task force lawmakers are assembling to rewrite tax reform before the next election year gets too close. Yes, state leaders are correct to be concerned about how the changing economy is hurting tax revenues. But grocery taxes arent the answer to 21st century tax problems. LEHI Police arrested a Skyridge High School student after they say he threatened to commit a mass shooting. The 18-year-old Lehi student was booked into the Utah County Jail Thursday for investigation of making a terroristic threat. Police say the student went to a new therapist for the first time on Thursday and "unloaded" on her. The therapist later called police to say he had threatened to "shoot up his school," a police affidavit filed in 4th District Court states. During the course of the 45-minute conversation with the therapist, the student said he "sees himself as a vigilante" and talked about "his desire of shooting up his school and murdering a person that hurt his friend" as well as his "manic episodes of not being able to control his anger," the affidavit states. The 18-year-old would not "disclose names, when he would carry out his plan(s), or details of the plans. He only explained that he fantasizes over these murderous thoughts constantly and he spent 3-plus hours last night (Wednesday) planning it out," the report states. The therapist said while she did not believe a threat was "imminent," she wanted to make law enforcement aware of the situation. Police said they felt the threats "were very real and credible," according to the affidavit. Lehi officers went to look for him at Skyridge High, where they discovered that a student assembly was underway in the auditorium. They then learned that the student was at his house and went there. When interviewed by police, he "opened up" to investigators, "releasing frustration, odd responses and several bone-chilling responses to our questions," the affidavit states. "After speaking with (him), all officers on scene felt the next step of (his) plan was execution execution on Skyridge High School and specific people." The student told police that he would only hurt the "bad guys" and not the "good guys" such as the school resource officer. In explaining his plan, the student "considered response time from police or the SWAT team and where the 'best vantage point would be,"' police wrote. "Based on (his) admission of 'desire to cause mass destruction and not just kill select a few,' he was arrested." "There was enough there that the officers felt it was a credible threat in order to make the arrest," Lehi Police Sgt. Damon Faught said Friday. The student does not have a history of violence, he said. Skyridge High officials informed parents of the arrest in a prepared statement on Friday. "Our students, faculty, and staff are all safe. We are so grateful to the Lehi Police Department for their quick resolution of the situation and for their professionalism in helping ensure the safety of our school community." Contributing: Ashley Imlay PARK CITY A trial has been scheduled for a Park City teenager accused of having a powerful painkiller delivered to her before it led to fatal overdoses of her two friends. The 17-year-old girl has denied four counts of drug distribution, a second-degree felony. Her one-day trial is set for April 19 in juvenile court. The teenager is accused of continuing to receive shipments of other synthetic drugs following the 2016 deaths of Grant Seaver and Ryan Ainsworth, both 13. Prosecutors say the Park City boys asked to have the powerful white-powder opioid "pink," or U-47700, shipped to her home and they died after taking the drug. The teen's attorney, Mary Corporon, is seeking to exclude from trial some statements the girl made to police just after they arrested her at a McDonald's in July. Corporon argued Friday that the two plainclothes officers didn't show her client their badge until after they carried her to a police car and brought her into an interview room. Video of the interview shows the teen is "sobbing and hysterical" and seems to ask for an attorney or her parents at one point, Corporon said. But police didn't try to clarify her request and instead diverted her attention to a waiver form indicating she understood her rights. "They deflected and on down the path, pretty soon shes answering questions," Corporon said. "The entire circumstance is coercive." "It's kind of damned if you do, damned if you don't," prosecutor Patricia Cassell responded. If the officers try to calm her down, they could appear manipulative, she said. But if they don't, then the defense argues the girl's emotions are running too high for them to get a statement. Cassell said the investigators were not trying to deviate from any request the teen made and have previously testified that she never asked for an attorney. Third District Judge Elizabeth Knight said she will issue a decision March 22 on whether to allow the statements to be admitted as evidence. "Blessed" has become more of a trendy hashtag, less of a genuine appreciation for lifes boons. Got new Twitter followers #blessed Didnt have to wait in line for my latte #blessed Instagram post received 1,000 likes #blessed Its misuse, albeit annoying, isnt nearly as maddening as the trending political polarization created by those demanding a more tolerant America. Were going to impeach this (expletive), congressional leader Rashida Tlaib recently stated. This came only months after boasting to MSNBC that she is teaching her sons, "That we show love. That we lead with compassion and that we lead with a sense of understanding that all of us, that we are part of this humanity together. Equally infuriating are those who mandate acceptance of their ideology whilst refusing to show similar courtesies. White nationalist, white supremacist, Western civilization how did that language become offensive? Rep. Steve King lamented in a recent New York Times article. This came after King kicked out a political forum attendee for likening King's ideology to that of the Pittsburgh synagogues massacrist a white nationalist. Polemicists, naturally, flocked to social media. "Steve King, like Trump, is (expletive) wrapped in skin. Twitter follower Rashida, youre just another wicked devilish Muslim that needs to be deported. In fact, every time I see a picture of you, I am reminded of how demon possessed you are. Twitter follower ..the GOP disciplined Steve King but the Democrats reward their bigots. Twitter follower This Guy Says Impeach the MF. Michigan Representative Rashida Tlaib had it exactly right! Twitter follower. Acerbic snippets of Americas downward political spiral if ever there were some. Why? Its trendy to be tolerant intolerant. Its trendy to be controversial. Its trendy to speak without listening. Its not, however, en vogue to be peacemakers. Ironic, considering we cannot progress towards a more tolerant nation without them. Peacemakers nearing extinction will inevitably be blamed on a myriad of things President Trump, the Democrats, the Republicans, the media, constituents yet all is inconsequential. America needs not more scapegoats but a rude awakening. It begins by redefining peace itself. We think of peace as absence of war but its also about achieving wholeness. The iconic Hebraic word for peace, shalom, in fact, translates to just this. For one to achieve totality, to achieve a higher good, one must not only wish for the absence of evil for their fellow man but for the abundance of good things as well. Translation? It is time to make America whole again. This grounded hypothetical bird act a broken left wing, a broken right wing is working for only a select few. Nothing is being accomplished nor will it be accomplished if we dont abandon self-indulged agendas for the greater cause. Peacemakers themselves also need to be redefined. We think of peacemakers as formally trained diplomats, yet each of us holds this power if we choose to do so emphasis on "if." Example? In 1983, the Soviet Union shot down a Korean 747, killing all passengers, including 61 Americans. America consequently cut diplomatic ties with the Soviets. Suzanne Massie, an American with expertise in Russian culture and history, saw the urgency of this crossroad. If a peacemaker didnt step in soon, the two countries would be at war. She promptly began contacting people in Washington before landing a meeting with National Security Advisor Bud McFarlane. MacFarlane ultimately asked Massie to go to Russia on Americas behalf under the condition of anonymity. Going through the proper channels would take months and no one had that luxury. Massie agreed but with a condition of her own she needed to meet with President Ronald Reagan and get his blessing. A month later, Reagan approved her mission and the peace process began. Before the Geneva Convention of 85, a site where Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev met for the first time, Massie gave the president a painted wooden egg that bore the Virgin Mary and an inscription that read, Dont Blow up the World. She asked that he give it to Gorbachev. Its significance? In Russian culture, an egg denotes a new beginning. One person, a fledgling peacemaker, stopped two superpowers from going to war. Inspiring indeed. Peacemakers, perhaps most importantly, must always believe in humanity regardless of the times. In times of polarization we have a tendency to gauge humanity by the action of a few. This is a fatal mistake. Although there will always be troublemakers, always someone actively stirring the pot, Gandhi said it best, You must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty. Bottom line? Blessed are those who desire to move toward a whole country. Blessed are those who champion the greater cause. Blessed are those who see value in humanity #blessedarethepeacemakers SALT LAKE CITY "The Final Countdown," by Europe, blasted through speakers while 115 University of Utah School of Medicine soon-to-be graduates located envelopes labeled with their name as they gathered Friday morning. Inside, it would be revealed where they'll complete their residency. "I felt like I was going to throw up," said Simran Kaur, who will be completing an obstetrics and gynecology residency at Stanford University her No. 1 choice. "I felt some sort of mixture of nausea and anxiety and excitement." At the podium in front of the Rice-Eccles Stadium reception room, a voice called out "now," signalling students to, after months of anticipation, open their envelopes. Screams erupted all over the room and emotions ran high as friends and family hugged, wiped away tears and congratulated their future doctors. The annual tradition, which takes place across the country, is known as Match Day, where medical students who placed in residency programs find out where they'll be for the next few years. Of the 115 U. students (69 men, 46 women), 44 will be entering primary care residencies and 24 students will complete all or a portion of their residency training in Utah. In all, the seniors matched into 93 programs in 22 specialties across 31 states and one province. "I feel so excited and so happy, I can't even believe it," Kaur said with tears in her eyes. "It feels incredible. I picked it as my first choice not thinking that I would get it, it's such a competitive program, but when I read that I'm going to Stanford, I just can't believe it." Born and raised in Utah, Kaur has never lived anywhere else. "It feels weird," she said about leaving the state. "Utah is my home, it will always be my home." But she said she's excited for the journey she has a lot of family in the Bay Area and her best friend, Maryana Boulos, also matched in California just one hour away. The two were close through medical school and worried they'd have to travel far to see each other. "Now that we're going to be an hour apart, it's amazing," said Boulos, who will attend one of her top choices, Contra Costa Regional Medical Center in California completing a family medicine residency. "This is a fantastic program and it has so many opportunities for me. Even though this is my first time leaving home, I think it will be perfect for me." Before students opened their envelopes, Dr. Teresa Ota, president of the U. School of Medicine Alumni Association, shared some advice. "Enjoy the ride, keep your sense of humor and laugh often," she told the audience. "Wherever your match takes you, please remember to take care of yourself." Medical students apply to hundreds of different programs and can get into their top program, one they were unsure about, or their bottom choice. "It's surreal," said Salt Lake native Luke Mirabelli, who will complete an internal medicine psychiatry residency at the University of Kansas one of his top choices. Mirabelli said he can't wait to start training in the program. "Their ability to integrate both of the specialities and really create something that's going to change lives, I'm just so excited to be a part of that family." The excitement in the room was palpable as students rushed around hugging and congratulating each other. "It's just so much pent-up energy of four years of hard work," Mirabelli said. But, the anxiety is inevitable for most students. "You just it's hard to feel reassured until you have it in your hand," Boulos said. Mirabelli described his experience as "super nerve-wracking but I'm really happy it worked out." This day was long-awaited by most, and Kaur said she was happy her hard work paid off. "I'm so happy and I've worked very hard the last four years and it feels so good that this is the end," she said. For more than six decades, the Federal Aviation Administration has relied on employees of airplane manufacturers to do government-required safety inspections as planes are being designed or assembled. But critics say the system, dubbed the "designee program," is too cozy as company employees do work for an agency charged with keeping the skies safe while being paid by an industry that the FAA is regulating. "There is a potential conflict of interest," said Todd Curtis, a former Boeing Co. safety engineer and creator of airsafe.com, a website that focuses on airline safety. "They (the FAA) don't have the money to do all of the oversight. It's a question of being practical." The FAA's oversight duties are coming under greater scrutiny after deadly crashes involving Boeing 737 Max jets operated by airlines in Ethiopia and Indonesia, killing a total of 346 people. The U.S. was nearly alone in allowing the planes to keep flying until it relented on Wednesday after getting satellite evidence showing the crashes may be linked. The FAA concedes that it doesn't have resources to keep up with a growing aviation industry, and experts say it lacks the personnel to inspect every component, especially those made in other countries. But the agency says the designee program's results speak for themselves. The U.S. has the safest skies in the world. Until April of last year, U.S. passenger airlines had not had a fatality since 2009, while carrying several billion passengers. But safety experts say it's time to look into the agency's relationship with Boeing, based in Chicago. The FAA's ties to the company were revealed when Boeing and the agency released similar messages shortly after the Indonesian airliner crashed in October and again this week, when the FAA announced that Boeing would upgrade the Max's flight-control software, said Mary Schiavo, a former Transportation Department inspector general. With the messages, the FAA "revealed that they were just parroting what Boeing told them," she said. The agency needs more people with technical skills to adequately monitor a company that makes machines as sophisticated as today's jets, she said, contending that it didn't understand the Max's flight-control computer program. "The FAA readily states they don't understand the 4 million lines of code and the 150 computers," Schiavo said. "What they do is see that Boeing followed the process, they checked the FAA boxes. The public thinks the FAA has more involvement." Indeed, the agency's own website says that employees of manufacturers can approve design changes and aircraft repairs. "Using designees for routine certification tasks allows the FAA to focus its limited resources on safety critical certification issues," it says. A Boeing spokesman said company employees get regular training and oversight from the FAA. "The long-standing collaborative engagement between the Federal Aviation Administration, Boeing, its customers and industry partners has created the safest transportation system in the world," Boeing spokesman Daniel Curran said in an email. The FAA requirements in the designee program "ensure that Boeing employees serving in this capacity act independently on behalf of the FAA," he said. Congress will examine the relationship between Boeing and the FAA. Rep. Peter A. DeFazio (D-Ore.), chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said he would hold hearings on the FAA's process for approving the planes. The agency's practice of delegating certification processes has come under scrutiny before. In a 1993 report, the Government Accountability Office warned that the FAA was falling behind the industry in technical competence because of lack of training and delegation of tasks to the manufacturers. The report said 95 percent of certification work for the Boeing 747-400 jetliner was delegated to the manufacturer in 1989. By comparison, 70 to 75 percent of that work was done by the FAA in the early 1980s, the report said. In a separate report in 2005, the GAO said the FAA had no requirements for evaluating its designated certification workers within the industry. It also had incomplete records about safety violations that occurred during the inspection process. FAA designees have also run afoul of the law. Last February, Edward Carl Fernandez, an FAA-designated representative in Florida, pleaded guilty to falsely certifying the airworthiness of aviation parts. Between 2010 and 2013, prosecutors said, Fernandez would sign off on parts from an aviation repair company in exchange for bribes. Checks by the employees, who are paid by the airplane makers, are reviewed by government inspectors. In a 2017 video, FAA Assistant Administrator Peggy Gilligan said the agency had 6,000 engineers and aircraft inspectors overseeing 7,500 designees in aircraft certification and flight standards. Another 4,000 designees are working at FAA-approved companies, like parts suppliers. Curtis, who worked for Boeing from 1991 to 2000, said the system is designed so that company employees defer to the FAA if they find something wrong. Peter Goelz, a former NTSB managing director who now is an aviation safety consultant, said the system has worked well for years. "But at times like this, people start to question it," he said. He's not one of them, though, saying that the proof is in the outcome. "We have had the safest aviation system in the world for a long time," Goelz said. "The size of the bureaucracy you would need to move to a completely 'gotcha environment' simply would be unsustainable." James Hall, a former chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, said he thinks the agency may have gotten complacent. "We have a good system," said Hall, the former NTSB chairman, "and sometimes people go to sleep when things are going well. It's time to wake up." ____ Koenig reported from Dallas. Krisher and Durbin reported from Detroit. SALT LAKE CITY Beginning June 1, community-based Boy Scout packs and troops may begin recruiting boys from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, according to guidelines the church released Friday. The church announced in May that it would implement a new worldwide initiative for children and youth beginning in January 2020 and discontinue its centurylong association with the Boy Scouts of America. No church units will sponsor any Scouting units after Dec. 31. The faith's Priesthood and Family Department sent a list of four new instructions for the transition to general and local church leaders around the world. First, boys are encouraged to remain in their Latter-day-Saint-sponsored Scouting unit through Dec. 31. Second, BSA volunteers may provide a church-approved flyer for recruiting Latter-day Saints boys to their packs and troops beginning on June 1. The flyers must be provided to bishops and branch presidents, who will direct them to be posted on bulletin boards in church meetinghouses from June 1 through Dec. 31. Those flyers are not to include images that identify the church or quotes from church leaders. Third, BSA recruiting of church members should be done directly with families and not in church meetinghouses. "Bishops and others should not provide BSA with member information," the notice said. Finally, youth registered in Scouting through church-sponsored units who choose to join a community Scouting unit before Dec. 31 will be registered in both units through that date. Last month, the church issued a frequently-asked-questions document on the transition with a number of other guidelines. It instructed local church leaders not to recruit adults or youth for Scouting or distribute materials to those interested in remaining in Scouts. It also said church buildings or grounds will be off limits to Scout meetings or activities after Dec. 31. However, the documents say the church intends its leaders and members to stay fully engaged in Scouting through Dec. 31. Camps, high adventure activities and other outdoor activities may continue at the discretion of local priesthood leaders. SALT LAKE CITY When he first saw the flyers taped near the entrance of the University of Utah art building, all Mohan Sudabattula could make out was the bright red, white and blue lettering. When he got closer, he saw the slogan, NOT STOLEN, CONQUERED encircling a map of the United States. My gut immediately sank a bit because of the spin it was taking on American history, Sudabattula said. The University of Utah senior quickly took the flyers down. When he later visited the website printed at the bottom of the flyers, he realized they were the work of white supremacist group Patriot Front, a national organization based in Texas whose motto is "Reclaim America." The posters were done in a really strategic way so that not much could be done about them, said Sudabattula, 23, who grew up in West Jordan. The messages weren't directly inciting violence against a particular person or minority group, but they were promoting a problematic ideology that could lead to something really dangerous against people of color. Both in Utah and across the United States, white supremacist propaganda efforts are on the rise. According to a March report from the Anti-Defamation League, instances of white supremacist propaganda in the U.S. increased by 182 percent from 2017 to 2018. Propaganda comprises flyers, stickers, banners and posters, as well as graffiti if it promotes a particular group. An "instance of propaganda" is defined as the distribution of propaganda in a particular location, so "propaganda all over campus" or "all over a particular geographical area" counts as one incident, said Carla Hill, a senior investigative researcher at the Anti-Defamation League's Center on Extremism. While the majority of these cases occurred in locations other than college campuses, white supremacist groups have also ramped up their dissemination of flyers, posters and banners on college campuses nationwide. In 2017, there were 129 instances of white supremacist propaganda on college campuses, which shot up to 421 instances in 2018, according to the Anti-Defamation League. Recent high-profile white supremacist propaganda campaigns have taken place at college campuses across the country, including the University of California, San Diego; Southern Methodist University; University of Texas at Austin; University of Florida; University of Virginia; University of Maryland; Duke University; North Carolina State University; Tufts University; University of Delaware; and the University of Denver. These groups take these messages to college campuses where they feel the voice of the right is not represented, Hill said. They feel they need to inject their opinion into the college scene. But, Hill pointed out, these groups arent promoting conservatism, but rather right wing nationalism and a white ethno state. The Anti-Defamation League defines white supremacy as a belief system encompassing several ideologies: "1) whites should have dominance over people of other backgrounds, especially where they may co-exist; 2) whites should live by themselves in a whites-only society; 3) white people have their own 'culture' that is superior to other cultures; 4) white people are genetically superior to other people." The latest instance of a white supremacist terror attack took place on Friday, when a white supremacist killed at least 49 people at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. According to the Associated Press, on his Facebook page, the killer shared a 74-page white supremacist manifesto that named his "white nationalist heroes" and depicted hatred toward Muslims and immigrants. The guns he used were also covered in white supremacist graffiti. The amount of white supremacist propaganda distributed in Utah grew by almost 500 percent from 2017 to 2018, Hill said. According to data compiled by the Anti-Defamation League, there were only five instances of white supremacist propaganda in Utah in all of 2017. In 2018, that number rose to 24, with 13 of those instances on five Utah college campuses the University of Utah, Utah State University, Salt Lake City Community College, Weber State University and Utah Valley University. Already, there have been 10 instances of white supremacist propaganda in Utah in 2019, Hill said, six of which occurred on college campuses. In a lot of ways, whats happening in Utah is indicative of the trends were seeing across the country in regard to white supremacist activity, said Keegan Hankes, a research analyst at the Southern Poverty Law Center. What is happening in Utah, and what does it reveal about whats happening nationally? A focus on urban areas Twenty-three out of 29 instances of white supremacist propaganda in Utah from 2017 to 2018 took place in Salt Lake City, which reflects a national trend. The alt-right is predominantly active in large metropolitan areas, Hill said. This differs from what people might expect when they think about white supremacist groups such as the Ku Klux Klan, which has a more rural demographic, she added. Richard Medina, an assistant professor of geography at the University of Utah who published a 2018 study with graduate student Emily Nicolosi on the geography of hate groups, said, The sentiment that its kind of uneducated, rural, non-diverse groups driving the hate isnt the case. If these groups really want to drive policy and integrate themselves in society, they have to have more campaigns in urban areas. Nationwide, the number of hate groups defined as those that have beliefs or practices that attack or malign an entire class of people, typically for their immutable characteristics has been increasing. In 2017, there were 954 hate groups, and in 2018 that number rose to 1,020, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center. This trend is also visible in Utah. In 2017, there were just three hate groups active in Utah, according to the Southern Poverty Law Centers Hate Map. In 2018, that number tripled to nine. Medina said he thinks white supremacist groups in the Mountain Region are focusing on Salt Lake City because it seems to be the big city thats driving a lot of the cultural change in this region. We have a big university, an increasing population, and the Silicon Slopes. Salt Lake is leaning culturally more towards a West Coast culture and many think it could become the next Silicon Valley, he added. A changing demographic Utah's fast-growing and increasingly culturally, ethnically and racially diverse population has sparked both excitement and concern as residents face changes. Although Medina's study found that across all U.S. regions, a lack of population change and ethnic diversity was correlated with a higher number of hate groups, it also takes people time to adjust to demographic changes, Medina said. The rise in organized hate, hate crimes and hate violence isnt randomly occurring, Medina said. I think theres more hate today, and some of thats due to rhetoric, some due to policy, some due to poverty and some of its due to diversity. The fight against diversity and demographic change is a linchpin in the ideology of white supremacist groups nationwide, said Pete Simi, an associate professor of sociology and director of the Earl Babbie Research Center at Chapman University and author of the 2010 book "American Swastika: Inside the White Power Movements Hidden Spaces of Hate." One of the big things they care about is demographic change and the idea that whites are becoming a minority, Simi said. He believes President Donald Trump has stoked this fear by saying, among other things, that immigrants would pour into and infest our country. Much of this language has been appropriated by white supremacist groups. For example, on Feb. 9, members of white supremacist group Identity Evropa, which describes itself as an "identitarian group," climbed to the block U at the top of the University of Utah campus and displayed a banner that read End Immigration. They also hiked Ensign Peak with a banner reading Make America Beautiful Again, and went to This Is the Place monument with a banner that read Defend the Rockies. End immigration. Identity Evropas February campaign at the University of Utah came just weeks after University President Ruth Watkins released a statement on Jan. 26 condemning previous propaganda efforts by Identity Evropa and Patriot Front on campus. These cowardly, faceless and non-university sanctioned tactics are designed to disrupt and frighten individuals and communities, and to garner attention for an insidious ideology that has no place on our campus or in our community. ... At the University of Utah, we value free speech and the diversity of ideas, but we also have an ethical obligation to call out hateful speech when we see it, Watkins said in the statement. Rebranding hate Virginia-based Identity Evropa, which recently rebranded itself as the American Identity Movement, and Texas-based Patriot Front are the most active alt-right groups in Utah, followed by neo-Nazi group The Daily Stormer, Hill said. The American Identity Movement and Patriot Front are also the first and second most active white supremacist groups nationwide. However, both groups are relatively new, and neither existed in Utah before 2018, according to the Southern Poverty Law Centers Hate Map. Patriot Front splintered off from another white nationalist group, Vanguard America, after the August 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, during which a man seen marching with Vanguard America killed counterprotester Heather Heyer. Identity Evropa was founded in 2016 and is currently mired in a lawsuit for its involvement in the rally. The group was consequently shut down in March 2019 and replaced with the American Identity Movement. These rebranding efforts are part of a marketing strategy to attract new members and make the white supremacist agenda more palatable, Simi said. They want to tap into mainstream concerns and present themselves as mainstream so they can create certain images that might be more appealing, Simi said. This extends to the level of appearance. Identity Evropa and Patriot Front have disavowed the tattoos and clothing style of other white supremacist groups, and many members are well-dressed and college-educated, which helps explain their recruitment and propaganda efforts on campuses. If you dont have long hair or tattoos, if you have a college degree and become a police officer or lawyer or doctor, if you appear in khakis and a polo shirt, people are more receptive, Simi said. This strategy is also reflected in their marketing materials, which often don't come across as overtly racist. But both Identity Evropa and Patriot Fronts college campaigns have raised questions about the limits of free speech and how universities should deal with their propaganda. Civic discourse Simi, Medina and Sudabattula all emphasized the importance of civic discourse and the exchange of ideas on campuses, as long as the discourse does not present a direct threat to or incite violence against any person or group. College campuses have an obligation to protect the safety of their students, Simi said. However, avoiding this topic altogether is a huge mistake. The idea of not having a dialogue at all is allowing for the perpetuation of the problem. We live in a very polarized world where people thrive on hate because we only talk to each other using the most aggressive means, Sudabattula said. We're not used to participating in civil discourse that's constructive in trying to understand others' perspectives. He added that there is also "a line between civil discourse and harmful rhetoric." Sudabattula said that ultimately it's not the administration's responsibility to respond to the propaganda because of how cleverly worded these posters are, the university can't do much about them but said it is their responsibility to enable and empower students to get the resources and tools we need to create a solution. For example, they could give students permission to put up posters as a counterprotest to their posters, or help us facilitate professional events where we can bring in experts and other members of academia to talk about hateful rhetoric and how we can combat it, he said. The students need to come together and denounce these actions and show that we won't stand for this. OREM What began as a show of support became a learning opportunity Friday at Al Sahaba Mosque, as worshippers greeted well-wishers with an invitation to join their prayer service and receive free copies of the Quran. "Go and read my scripture. Don't listen to Fox News. Don't listen to CNN," said Imam Tala'at Al-Shuqairat, president of the mosque. "Read it and try to be fair." Too often, misunderstandings about Islam lead to violence, as they did Friday in Christchurch, New Zealand, he said. At least 49 Muslims are dead after shooters entered two mosques and opened fire. "Pray for those families and for those victims," Imam Al-Shuqairat said then showed the non-Muslims in the room how to do it the Muslim way. The silver lining of tragedy is that it breaks down barriers, said Charles Turner, president of University of Utah's Muslim Students Association. The mosque attacks caused mixed emotions for Utah Muslims: fear and anxiety about future attacks and gratitude for non-Muslim neighbors. "These things have an element of encouragement to them," he said, noting that he received two messages of support from the University of Utah's Jewish community first thing Friday morning. Tanner Ainge, who serves as vice chairman of the Utah County Commission, was one of many non-Muslim Utahns who sprang into action after learning about the New Zealand attacks. He tweeted asking people to join him at Al Sahaba Mosque Friday afternoon to surround Muslims there "with love and solidarity." Around 50 people heeded the call, bringing flowers and posters with messages like, "We love our Muslim neighbors." "I thought it was important that I actively got out and physically showed my support," said Bailey Roberts, who was carrying her toddler son, Dean, and a red carnation. Utah Lt. Gov. Spencer J. Cox was in the crowd. Near the end of the prayer service, he offered his condolences and shared why Utahns, in particular, should be outraged by attacks on houses of worship. The state was founded by people facing religious persecution, he said, noting that his own ancestors moved here after their home was burned down. "We must provide a safe space for everyone," Cox said. Part of providing a safe space is defending Islam against claims that it encourages violence, as Imam Al-Shuqairat noted. When you spend time with members of the Muslim community, you realize how similar their values are to your own, said Josie Stone, chairwoman of Salt Lake Interfaith Roundtable. "There's nothing secretive about their faith or how they practice it. They want to share it," she said. The "white supremacist ideology" that leads to mosque shootings is disgusting, said Utah Gov. Gary R. Herbert in a statement released Friday. "I was heartbroken to hear of the hateful and vile attack on innocent worshippers in New Zealand," he said. "During this time of pain and mourning, I hope all Utahns will reach out in love to our Muslim neighbors. Let's extend a comforting hand to those who may feel vulnerable and afraid." The Pacific Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints also offered their condolences and support to "our Muslim brothers and sisters throughout the world." "We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of so many lives," they said. "Our prayers are with the families of the deceased, the injured and all others impacted by this tragedy." Friday's attacks were "beyond belief," wrote Utah Rep. Ben McAdams on his Facebook page. "Islamaphobia and hate of any kind have no place in our human family," he said. Attacks like Friday's aren't soon forgotten, said Luna Banuri, a member of the Utah Muslim Civic League. Already, many Muslims enter their houses of worship feeling like something bad could happen at any time. "When we go to our mosques on Fridays, it's as if we are subconsciously trained, even as we put our heads down (in prayer), to be ready to run away if something happens," she said. Despite this anxiety, Muslims must not give up hope for a peaceful world, said Imam Al-Shuqairat during Friday's gathering. He encouraged those present to pray for the victims of violence as well as the perpetrators. "Don't let hatred build in your heart," he said. That becomes easier when you're surrounded by the love and support of your community, said Shurouq Alkhatib, the imam's wife. "We love being here with you and sharing with you our sadness," she said to those gathered in her mosque's gravel driveway. MOAB Crews on Friday found the body of a hiker who had gone missing at Canyonlands National Park earlier this week. The search for Jonathon Hogue, 33, of Iowa, began on Tuesday. Canyonlands National Park officials asked anyone who had been in the area of the Green River Overlook at Island in the Sky between Sunday and Thursday to contact them. His body was found at the base of the overlook. Authorities believe he fell about 500 feet to his death, the San Juan County Sheriff's Office said. According to park officials, Hogue was "a hiker and backpacker who is known to hike long distances, including off trail and scrambling. His dream was to be a park ranger. He is a Ph.D. student and hobbies include drawing and painting." Officials from the University of Iowa, where he attended school, offered support on Twitter to students as needed in light of his death. He was a graduate teaching assistant, officials said. SALT LAKE CITY Brother, brother. Twice in four years, two brothers have been selected General Sterling Scholar in the Deseret News/KSL's Sterling Scholar program. To hear this year's winner, Alexander Cheng of Hillcrest High School, tell it, he was deeply honored to be among 168 finalists in the 57th annual scholarship and recognition program. He also won the science category. "It's truly an honor to even be here so I'm truly blessed to have won and to be recognized. I'm so grateful, especially to my parents for all of their support and help. I think they're really crucial. My brother actually won General Sterling Scholar three years ago. It just goes to show the dedication and the influence they've had on us so I really thank my parents," Cheng said. Cheng's brother Anthony won in 2016. He also attended Hillcrest High School. To read Alexander Cheng's portfolio, his rise to the top of the 2019 Sterling Scholars program wasn't happenstance. He was one of 80 students worldwide selected to attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Research Science Institute. He ranks first in his class, has a 4.0 grade point average and earned a 35 composite score on the ACT. His next challenge? Going into biomedical computation and devise ways to rein in the escalating cost of health care. "One way we can approach this problem is through scientific research. What I want to do is use automated technology to be able to automate all the processes within the medical process so we can reduce the work that nurses and doctors need to do so we can reduce the cost of health care," he said. Cheng has been accepted to Stanford University and is waiting to hear from another of his top picks. The Sterling Scholar program encourages academic excellence by awarding scholarships and publicly recognizing some of Utah's top high school seniors. Nominees were judged for their academic achievements, leadership and service to their communities. Sterling Scholar winners receive $2,500 scholarships, and runners-up earn $1,000 each, which are awarded by the Deseret News and KSL. As the General Sterling Scholar, Cheng receives an additional $2,500 scholarship. They also are eligible for scholarships and tuition waivers at a number of Utah colleges and universities. Keith B. McMullin, president and CEO of Deseret Management Corporation, prior to presenting the top award to Cheng remarked on the top-drawer character and academic achievement of each of the student participants. "If anyone is wondering where the country is headed, they only need to look to this group of scholars, don't you think?" McMullin said. Each of the finalists was selected by their Wasatch Front high schools and advanced through progressive rounds of judging. The final judging, held at Cottonwood High School in Murray on March 2, culminated with Fridays award ceremony at the LDS Conference Center's Little Theater. Students compete in 14 categories. Winners and runners up are selected in each category and among the winners of each category the General Sterling Scholar is chosen. The finalists demonstrate high academic achievement and service and many are also innovators and entrepreneurs. One scholar has published apps and another runs a small business renting formal gowns to high school girls attending proms and other dances. Ethan Rassmussen , winner of the skilled technical sciences category, is a top high school student at Lone Peak High School and a rancher. Big time. He works 1,000 cattle on his family's 250,000-acre Bar 10 Ranch. "Knowing I can spend the rest of my life with my seat in a saddle and my hands in the dirt gives me unbounded excitement," he wrote in his portfolio. He also won top honors in Utah State University's Biotechnology Academy. The Sterling Scholar program also includes the Gail Miller Community Service Award. This years winner is Emily Erekson of Viewmont High School. The award includes a $2,000 prize. Erekson wrote that volunteering for her school's Sub for Santa fundraisers opened her eyes to challenges that families with limited means experience. "Through this experience, I quickly became aware of the financial hardships burdening so many local families. This influenced me to start a new project in my community to address these needs," she wrote West High School senior Divyam Goel was winner of the Philo T. Farnsworth Governor's Award, which celebrates innovation. The award is named for Farnsworth, the inventor of the vacuum tube, who is considered the "father of television." Farnsworth was born in a log cabin near Beaver. The award comes with a $1,000 prize. "My passion for the sciences, particularly the biological sciences, stems from early exposure to the world of research," Goel wrote in his portfolio. He also volunteers weekly at Salt Lake's Hindu temple. Kenzie Wilkinson of Salem Hills High School, winner of the family and consumer science category, said placing at the top of the finalists in her group "was honestly, a little overwhelming. "It's just an honor being placed with so many successful kids and being viewed as a success," she said. While she's chosen a challenging career path in fashion design, Wilkinson said she's known since childhood that was her career goal. "At the age of 3, I started creating toilet paper dresses for my Barbie doll. It's something I've known I wanted to do. I've worked really hard and I've applied for scholarships and done what I can to get into schools that offer fashion programs. "It hasn't gone exactly to plan as I've wanted it to, but I'm going to get to the point I want to be at and I'm going to become a fashion designer," a resolute Wilkinson said. SALT LAKE CITY Utah's typically ultraconservative GOP Legislature dipped its collective toe in the water of some eco-friendly measures this session, stepping up enforcement on vehicle idling, giving the go-ahead on a community's wholesale embrace of renewable energy and agreeing to at least study a carbon tax. Lawmakers also endorsed instituting metering of pressurized secondary water throughout Utah on new construction after April 1, 2020, and enforcing the latest international energy efficiency codes in any new commercial construction after July 1. But wait. Through the lens of what is good environmentally in the long term for the state and where there might be risks, lawmakers called both sides of the coin. In one instance, they endorsed the secondary water metering but shunned a Capitol Hill water management plan. In another, they provided more money to study the algal bloom problem in Utah waters, but passed a law requiring legislative oversight of new rules dealing with a nutrient pollution that is a signficantly contributing factor. Sen. Jake Anderegg, who ran the secondary water metering bill, said the provisions are "nowhere near where I think we need to be," but it is a start. "Do I think this is the end all be all? No. I think it is a good first step," he said. "As we move forward, water conservation is going to be paramount." Anderegg, a Republican from Lehi, said if Utah is really going to add 3 million more people to its population in the next 25 to 30 years, water consumption habits have to change. "We need to stop the bleeding, so to speak." Anderegg wanted to require metering of secondary water on existing connections, but couldn't get that passed. He did, however, succeed in getting a provision in his bill that would allow state loans to offset costs for water providers interested in taking the step. Lawmakers also signed off on HB411, a measure by Rep. Steve Handy, R-Layton, that allows communities to work out arrangements with Rocky Mountain Power and their residents and businesses to be "net 100 percent renewable" by 2030. Advocates say this is a huge accomplishment, and Handy said he heaved and huffed to ease his colleagues' concerns. "There is nothing like this in the country, it is so collaborative. We could find no legislation like this anywhere, which is why we had to kind of create it ourselves." Salt Lake City, Park City and unincorporated Summit County have all committed to going to net 100 percent renewable energy by 2030, which means fossil fuel will remain as the "baseload" energy resource, Handy said. But this is how the rest of it works. If a community adopts a nonbinding resolution by the end of this year committing to that goal, a series of public notifications begin so ratepayers can opt in or opt out. Handy said the ability to opt out or opt in is one of the most important provisions in the bill because participants will be agreeing to rates that are likely to be at least 7 percent higher. After those notifications, the community adopts a binding ordinance, triggering an investment of "millions" in renewable energy by Rocky Mountain Power, Handy said. "This is big." Handy also enjoyed success with HB107, a bill that will allow Dominion Energy to get approvals from the Public Service Commission to use some creative methods for capturing methane that would otherwise escape into the environment as pollution. While rates will increase some for customers, Dominion Energy will put the methane generated from pig manure from a Utah farm into a pipeline and also capture the methane from a food waste digester from a North Salt Lake facility. "The methane is captured and repurposed," Handy said. "It is a clean air initiative. It can be used in home heating and it can be used in the state's 26 CNG stations. It becomes net negative emissions." In another clean air move, lawmakers endorsed a $6.9 million investment in electric vehicle charging for both government employees and the public and bought off, even with some skepticism, on a pilot program to fund free fare days on mass transit during inversion buildups. Overall, there was $28.8 million in new money for air pollution measures. "This was by far the largest investment in clean air in Utah history," said Alan Matheson, director of the Utah Department of Environmental Quality. In another move that may surprise some, a bill proposing a carbon tax, HB304, did not entirely die. The House Revenue and Tax Committee unanimously agreed to study it over the summer interim after hearing from the Citizens Climate Lobby that pitched a detailed plan modeled after a Washington initiative. Sarah Wright, executive director of Utah Clean Energy, said she believes there has been a slow but steady shift in the Legislature due to strong bipartisan leadership with Handy, Rep. Patrice Arent, D-Millcreek, Rep. Lowry Snow, R-Santa Clara, and Gov. Gary Herbert. "I think they are caring about public health and solutions and moving Utah toward leadership in creating a long-term healthy environment for Utah citizens and businesses," Wright said. But it wasn't all rosy. The Legislature passed radioactive waste amendments critics say make it easier to bury depleted uranium in Utah after being lobbied by deep-pocketed EnergySolutions, passed on a bill requiring lead testing in schools and child care centers, and dismissed crafting the water use management plan at Capitol Hill. Despite Handy's repeated efforts to provide money for reducing emissions from rail yard freight switchers, that effort died as well. Legislators also ignored the strong admonition of State Treasurer David Damschen to resist passage of a bill he asserted was "completely unnecessary" and allows a rural county coalition to avoid accountability in spending a $55 million loan in its pursuit of an inland port for coal exports. SALT LAKE CITY While Utah's burgeoning tech sector got a few boosts from lawmakers in the just-completed 2019 session, a few unresolved issues, and addressing short-term fixes to long-term issues, remain on the collective to-do list. A first-of-its-kind grant program aimed at getting more computer science classes into K-12 public schools in Utah earned about $3 million in support, but the funding fell far short of the $7 million request that earned unanimous approval in committee hearings and floor votes. The bill also had 53 bipartisan co-sponsors, the most of any legislative effort in the session. Funding was adjusted downward amid wrangling over budget issues. Perhaps more significantly, the one-time funding appears to have left some $2 million on the table, since it failed to step up to a $5 million fund-matching challenge made by a group of local tech leaders in January. Pluralsight co-founder and CEO Aaron Skonnard is one of five Utah tech company founders who each committed up to $1 million in personal funds to match whatever the state put toward building computer science curriculum. Skonnard said he was disappointed with the level of funding, and the fact that it was a one-time committment and not an ongoing appropriation. He noted it will fall short of the fiscal support necessary to reach Gov. Gary Herbert's stated goal of making computer science available to every Utah public school student by 2022. HB227 is a very important first step to reach our vision of providing every K-12 student in Utah with the opportunity to learn computer science," Skonnard said in a statement. "While not the outcome we hoped for, the $3.15 million in one-time funding will serve as a downpayment to equip Utah teachers with the skills they need to provide quality computer science education to our students." Reaching Gov. Herberts goal of having computer science education available to every Utah student by 2022 can only be realized with ongoing, increased funding," he wrote. "I and the Silicon Slopes community remain committed to seeing that goal realized. Rep. John Knotwell, R-Herriman, the sponsor of HB227 who is also the executive director of industry group Utah Technology Council, acknowledged he was shooting for better fiscal support. "The one-time designation was a hard hit," Knotwell said. "But the important thing is, this establishes the grant program and I'm hopeful that with the matching we can really catalyze this program in the first year." Knotwell said the task is a challenging one, with computer science mostly missing from the 600 or so Utah elementary schools and only available at a little over half of the state's approximately 320 middle, junior high and high schools. I another area, more work is needed to create some kind of regulatory framework for new, peer-to-peer car sharing companies. Car sharing follows a similar peer-to-peer business model that allows homeowners to rent their spaces through the Airbnb network or drivers to transport riders in their own cars through networks run by companies like Lyft or Uber. Car sharing connects vehicle owners who want to make their cars or trucks available for rent via an app-based platform to those in need of a borrowed vehicle. The companies, in much the same vein as other peer-to-peer innovators, have been locked in a sniping match about which, if any, regulatory and tax requirements should apply to the business models. Sen. Curt Bramble, R-Provo, said his proposal would have found some parity in terms of taxes and fees that acknowledged both the similarities and differences between tradition rentals and car sharing. "This is an issue that is being faced by legislatures across the country," Bramble said. "What we didn't do this session is give (car sharing companies) any carve-outs to level the playing field, which we should have done. "I think what will happen now, until we come up with a solution, is that (car sharing companies in Utah) will find themselves crosswise with compliance." Rep. Kim Coleman, R-West Jordan, said she'd successfully brought legacy car rental companies together with peer-to-peer car sharing operators and other regulatory agencies with concerns, like the Salt Lake City International Airport, to arrive at a consensus bill, but her efforts were thwarted near the end of the session by a Senate committee rejection. Coleman said Friday she believed a solution would be reached, but it needed to be one that embraced a free market approach to crafting regulation. "The belief that it's government's duty to protect legacy companies from disruption by peer-to-peer companies is flawed on so many levels," Coleman said. "I believe there really is space to welcome peer-to-peer and sharing economy businesses and it was what I was working toward, a reasonable regulatory framework." Both Coleman and Bramble noted they expect a resolution proposal on the issue to emerge from interim legislative meetings. Joseph Woodbury, co-founder and CEO of Neighbor, a Utah-based peer-to-peer network company that specializes in storage solutions, said toward the end of the session that Coleman's approach was one he felt best recognized new, innovative business models. "The marketplace community has gotten some mixed messages this session for sure," Woodbury said. "At, Neighbor.com, we are super grateful for the work our state legislators do, especially those like Rep. Coleman that are working tirelessly to protect marketplaces in HB354." One proposal that earned plenty of support from lawmakers, but no funding, would have created a program to incentivize the purchase of battery storage systems to compliment clean energy systems, like solar panels. Sen. Lincoln Fillmore, R-South Jordan, told a legislative committee during the session that his SB111 was aimed at driving innovation but, at its heart, was a pro-environment effort. Supporters of the bill, like Utah Clean Energy, said the systems could help grow a network of small-scale, clean energy power producers that could fundamentally change the current one-way street of corporate energy provision. Fillmore was hoping to launch the program, which would offer rebates on battery storage systems, with $5 million. The Salt Lake County legislator said he'd likely revisit the issue again. While our poll on Twitter has ended, the same poll on Facebook is open for six more days. Highlights: We, at Digit, conducted a poll on the #BoycottChineseProducts matter We asked our readers if their smartphone buying decisions were affected by the incident at UNSC Our Twitter poll ended after 24 hours; the results lean towards boycotting Chinese brands We, at Digit, conducted a poll on Twitter and Facebook yesterday in order to understand what our readers feel about Chinese smartphone brands after the recent incident at the UN Security Council where China blocked the UNs resolution to designate Maulana Masood Azhar of Jaish-e-Mohammad as a global terrorist. While our poll on Facebook is still open for six more days, our poll on Twitter ended after its 24-hour run, and here are the results. We'd asked our readers, #BoycottChineseProducts: Will Chinas decision to block blacklisting of JeM Chief Masood Azhar affect your smartphone purchase decisions with respect to Chinese brands? We received a total of 257 votes in a period of 24 hours, out of which 65 percent of them answered with, Yes, I won't buy them and the remaining 35 percent chose, No, I'll still buy them. We came across numerous Twitter users in India who called for a ban on Chinese smartphone brands like Xiaomi, Huawei, OnePlus, Vivo, and Oppo, which, whether we like it or not, constitute the top-selling smartphone brands in the country. In fact, over 60 percent of the smartphone market share in India is owned by such Chinese brands. Whats more, India regularly imports electronic goods from China. While our Twitter poll ended today at 2:36 PM, our Facebook poll remains open for six more days and has attracted over 9,100 voters in a days time. If you meant to voice your opinion on the matter, please head over to our Facebook page, where you can not only participate in the poll but also leave your thoughts about the whole situation in the comments. Related Read: Has the recent incident at the UNSC impacted your preference for Chinese gadgets? The feature is not yet available for public testing. Highlights: WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new feature The feature enables reverse image search using Google This is an attempt to curb the spread of fake news In the past decade, WhatsApp has helped millions of people connect through instant messages and calls but has also been used as a medium to spread fake news, a danger WhatsApp developers are still trying hard to combat. In the latest beta (ver. 2.19.73) of WhatsApp, the app is reported to come with an option that lets users perform a reverse image search on images forwarded to them by others. The new feature appears to use Googles Search by Image feature to perform the reverse image search. Though spotted in a beta version of WhatsApp, the new feature is still not available for public testing. For this reason, we could not try the feature out on our own devices. However, according to a recent report by WABetaInfo, an option called Search image appears in the extended menu when a received image is selected. Tapping on the option brings up an alert with the message, Search image? This will upload the image to Google. Tapping Search opens up the phones default browser to perform a reverse image search on Google, a feature Google Images has had since 2011. How does this feature help in combatting the spread of fake news? Once the user does a Google search using the image, they can decide for themselves whether the news is fake or legit depending on the related search results that pop up. If they see reports of whatever theyve viewed being fake, theyll know. However, if there are legitimate news items around the image theyve searched for, they neednt worry about spreading fake news when they forward the image to their contacts. WhatsApp developers have made several attempts in the past to curb the spread of fake news, which was especially high in India. In July last year, the Facebook-owned company implemented a restriction in the app that allows a user residing in India to forward messages and media to a maximum of five contacts. The restriction was later implemented globally. As you can tell, the developers are still working hard to find new ways of stopping people from spreading misinformation. Related Read: WhatsApp is globally implementing message forwarding limit of five users Fianna Fail has selected sitting CavanMonaghan TD Brendan Smith to represent the party in the Midlands North West Constituency for the upcoming election to the European Parliament. Mr Smith was chosen at a convention in the Longford Arms Hotel in Longford Town on Friday. Former Donegal TD Niall Blaney also contested the convention. He had criticised the decision to hold the convention on a Friday afternoon of a bank holiday weekend saying it discriminated against the members of the Midlands Northwest constituency. Mr Blaney said he had raised the issue with the party leader Micheal Martin. Nine candidates had competed for the candidacy. Deputy Smith has represented the party in County Cavan at both a local and national level and now looks forward to the challenge of regaining a seat for Fianna Fail in the Midlands North West in May. Deputy Smith is steeped in a Fianna Fail tradition and has served as a Fianna Fail TD for the Cavan-Monaghan Constituency since 1992. He has also served as a cabinet Minister. Speaking following his selection at the convention, Deputy Smith said: "I would like to thank the members of Fianna Fail across the fifteen counties within this European constituency. I am honoured that they have placed their trust in me. This region has been without a Fianna Fail voice in Brussels and Strasbourg for too long. It was clear from speaking with members in every corner of this constituency that they grasped the importance of having a committed and experienced voice in Europe at this crucial time. The chaos in Westminster and the uncertainties which lie ahead mean that a strong voice is needed in the European Parliament I will be that voice, concluded Deputy Smith. Speaking following the convention, party leader Micheal Martin said: I am delighted that so many experienced and accomplished members of our Party put themselves forward in this selection process, I want to commend them for what was a respectful and energetic campaign. In Brendan, we have a candidate who will represent our Party and the Midlands North West with distinction. I wish to congratulate him on his selection and I look forward to working with him in the months ahead. Brexit represents the single biggest challenge of our time and when the new European Parliament begins its work in July, I hope we have a strong Fianna Fail team to speak for the people of Ireland, concluded Deputy Martin. READ MORE: Blaney says he has had positive reaction to European bid Funny how lifes little twists and turns can map out ones life. While still a member of An Garda Siochana, John McGroary was a co-founder of the Bluestack Ramblers, and eventually earned his Tour Guide Badge. Fast Forward 20 years and he is the liaison officer between the Greek and Turkish Police in Cyprus, as part of his 12-month stint with the UN Peacekeeping Force. One day he had to accompany a senior UN diplomat on a helicopter flight over the Buffer Zone between both jurisdictions and as he explained to me: I suddenly realised I was a Tour Guide and I loved it. Much as I loved the Guards, I thought.maybe this is the way to go when I retire. That he did, in 2016, after 30 years as a very popular member, mostly in Glenties and elsewhere in west Donegal. At the time, Garda Richard Quigley, who worked with John, and was also secretary of Glenties Community Development Group said: John is a very professional and friendly man to work with. There is no doubting his dedication to the community in Glenties. He was always first in line to help as best he could. We never wanted for anything from the Gardai whatever we were organising, be it the Harvest Fair or a festival. He will be sorely missed. The Glenties Community Development Group wishes John and his family every success and good health into the future. That family is his wife Pauline, nee Sharp from Portnoo, whom he met in Ardara and they have a son and a daughter, the former keeping the Garda tradition alive. Indeed two of Johns brothers are also members, from a family of nine boys and two girls. In the early 80s I was working in Magees when a colleague signed up for the Guards and told me I should do the same. They were very strict at the time and I lost out on the chest measurement. However, when they were recruiting the next batch, they had dropped the chest requirement and I passed the entrance exam. I had to wait four years though and went to Templemore in July 1986. By that time I had six months experience of being a prison officer in Arbour Hill and recall vividly the creaking of the big door as we awaited entry and the greeting from a senior officer...Welcome to the laughing house of horrors! Cavan His first station was Cavan and there were many funny incidents. One night at a checkpoint, he asked an old guy why his vehicle wasnt taxed. Ah says your man, I get it done when Im going to Dublin...sure Id never get done in my own town! After Cavan he was sent to Lifford, the first of a number of border posts. But one night, he and his colleague PJ McDermott, were badly assaulted on Lifford Bridge. It was the first extradition from the Republic of Ireland to the North and as a result of Robert Russell being handed over, there were widespread protests. Four bombs exploded in Belfast and there two explosions in Derry. PJ McDermott was kicked within an inch of his life on Lifford Bridge and John had his nose broken. In 1991 he was transferred to Ballyshannon and to Glenties in 1992...the contrast with border duty was palpable. I loved it.the friendliness of the people and the community spirit is second to none. Retirement He retired as a Sergeant in July 2016 and set up walkingireland.ie and johnsireland.com, eventually purchasing an eight-seater minibus, which can be on Slieve Liag one day and anywhere in Ireland the next. Reviews on Trip Advisor are a testament to his success. John McGroary was tour guide and driver for myself and five friends. He located my father's childhood home in Roscommon and was our excellent tour guide for the Wild Atlantic Way Tour. John is well versed in geography and Irish history. He is prompt and patient. Travelling to Ireland was #1 on my "Bucket List". John made my trip to Ireland outstanding. John Mc Groary was an incredible tour guide. Hes extremely personable, knowledgeable about the land and history of Ireland, and he seemed to know every person that we encountered. Slieve Liag was breathtaking and worth the cold wind (visited Ireland in late November). The tour was very organized and well-planned (as all of the many reviews on Trip Advisor already state). I will be recommending this tour to anyone with a trip planned to Ireland! He takes groups to the Game of Thrones sites and Americans interested in genealogy and culture are flocking to him. Off-season doesnt apply! I had my first Winter tour on January 7...two US travel agents are coming soon and a Canadian journalist writing for Celtic Life International is doing a big feature on him shortly. He has scaled Everest, The Swiss Alps and Kilimanjaro but Ah Frank, there is no place like our own Donegal. He agrees wholeheartedly with what John B Keane said to me in Listowel forty years ago Man made Kerry but God made Donegal! Amen to that! St. Patrick's Day is a celebration of our tradition and culture and there is no shortage of parades planned around the county to enjoy. In Ardara, the St Patricks Parade takes place on Monday at 3.30pm. But most other parades in Donegal are on Sunday. In Ballybofey & Stranorlar the parade is on Sunday at 3pm. The Twin Towns St Patricks Day parade is now in its 7th year. In that short time, the parade has become the biggest annual Community event in the Finn Valley. This years theme is Heroes and Heroines. In Ballyshannon, Sundays parade is at 2pm and starts from the Fair Green at the top of the town and those not attending the parade should use the N15 Ballyshannon Bypass. The Ballyshannon St Patricks Day Parade was re-instated in 1998 and has run every year since. Last year there were eight bands, 30 floats and 15 community groups in participation. Buncranas parade will take place on Sunday at 3pm. In Bundoran, the parade is on Sunday at 3.30pm. And approximately 10,000 people are expected to attend. St. Patricks Day preparations are well underway in Burtonport as the community pull together to host the 15th annual St. Patricks Day event in St Columba's community centre. As usual, the St. Patricks Day celebrations begin with 11.30am Mass in Acres, followed by a celebration of Irish culture in the hall from 12noon 2pm. Donegal Town is looking forward to celebrating our National Holiday with their Annual Parade on Sunday at 3pm. RTE will be filming this years parade and all business and community groups are encouraged to take part so that Donegal Town can be showcased. Sundays parade in Dunfanaghy starts at 2pm with assembly at Moores Garage at 1pm There are parades too on Sunday in Falcarragh (3pm) and Gaoth Dobhair (2.30pm). In Killybegs, Sundays parade will start at 3pm from St Catherines School with the parade adapting a maritime theme. Letterkenny The Letterkenny St. Patricks Day Parade is taking place on Sunday at 3pm. The theme is Celebrating Letterkenny Together. The reviewing platform is located at Market Square where there will be music and Irish Dancing from 2.15pm. This year, in a change from the norm, the organisers are asking walking entries and walking entries attached to motorised floats to assemble at An Grianan Theatre Car Park. The motorised entries will line up as usual along Pearse Road and the walking entries will be filtered in to the parade from the Theatre. So spectators will get the best vantage points from the Main Street. The parade in Carrigart will start at 1pm and in Moville, the parade starts at 2.30pm. Local councillor Ruairi O Murchu has described the most recent incident of intimidation by drug dealing gangs in Louth as "a despicable act endangering many lives." Cllr O Murchu said: Last week I publicly raised the issue of intimidation and extortion by drug gangs against the families of people with alleged drug debts. Early on Friday morning at 2.15am members of a drug gang threw a petrol bomb into a family home in Annagassan. Myself and Cllr Pearse McGeough visited this family yesterday and they confirmed that there were three people asleep in the house at the time of the attack. Luckily the impact of the breaking window woke one of the occupants of the house and they extinguished fire which had ignited downstairs. Had this person not woken up the outcome would have been considerably more serious. I have also spoken to the Gardai to ensure that the necessary supports are in place to maintain the safety of this family in the future. "Anyone with any information relating to this attack need to bring it to the Gardai as soon as possible." "People need to stand against criminal elements like this and not allow them to threaten and attack members of our community." (REUTERS/ Mohamed Abd El Ghady)The inside of a Coptic church hit by a bomb during Palm Sunday. Pope Francis and World Council of Churches general secretary Rev. Olav Fykse Tveit have condemned the "brutal" attack at a mosque in Egypt during which 305 were kllled on Nov. 24. People fleeing an explosion were gunned down at a Sufi mosque in Egypt's North Sinai region, according to multiple news sources, in what appears to be the deadliest terror attack ever on Egyptian soil on Nov. 24. Francis sent a telegram of condolence for the attack, saying he was "profoundly grieved to learn of the great loss of life caused by the terrorist attacks on Rawda mosque in North Sinai. The Pope also renewed "his firm condemnation of this wanton act of brutality directed at innocent civilians gathered in prayer". The pontiff said he joins "all people of good will in imploring that hearts hardened by hatred will learn to renounce the way of violence that leads to such great suffering, and embrace the way of peace." And in a letter to the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Dr Ahmad al-Tayyeb on Nov. 25, Tveit said, We pray that our Lord grants them comfort and healing," He wrote, "We condemn strongly this tragic attack against our Muslim brothers during prayer time, in a place of worship dedicated to peace and devotion." Egyptian security forces were hunting for the attackers of a Sufi mosque during Friday prayers in the northern Sinai, a military source said, after the brutal and lethal assault. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi said Egypt would respond to the attack on al Rawdah mosque with "brute force" CNN reported Nov. 24. Some 109 others were injured, Egyptian State media reported. It was the deadliest attack of its kind since an Islamist insurgency in the peninsula was stepped up in 2013, BBC reported. No group has yet claimed the attack, but extremists affiliated with so-called Islamic State (IS) have been responsible for so many deadly attacks in the province. They usually target security forces and Christian churches, and the bloody attack on a mosque associated with Sufi Muslims shocked Egypt. The Coptic Orthodox Church, representing some 11 million Egyptian Christians was quick to denounce the attack. A Coptic Orthodox Church spokesperson said the Church condemned "the flagrant attack that targeted worshipers in Deir Al-Abd's Al-Rawda mosque," Ahram reported. "We pray to God that Egypt is preserved from such unprecedented brutal terrorism," the Christian statement read. The attack triggered a new element into Egypt's struggle with extremists because most of the victims were Sufi Muslims, who practice a mystical form of Islam that the Islamic State and other Sunni extremist groups deem heretical, The New York Times reported. The Times commented that it underscored the failure of President el-Sisi, who has justified his harsh crackdown on political freedom in the name of crushing Islamic militancy, to deliver on his promises of security. The gunmen had set up "ambush" locations and opened fire on ambulances as they were transporting wounded worshipers from al-Rawdah toward al-Arish before the arrival of security services, eyewitnesses reported, according to CNN. The mosque that was attacked is known for being the birthplace of Sheikh Eid al-Jariri, a Sufi cleric considered the founder of Sufism in the Sinai peninsula. No-one had claimed responsibility for the attacks but IS has targeted Sufis in the past. (Photo: P. Stalder, commons.wikimedia)Christchurch The world along with people of all faiths and those with none reacted with shock and horror at the news that 49 people were killed in a terror attack on two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch. The terrorist attack that appeared to have been carried out by a white nationalist extremist who posted a racist manifesto online and streamed live video of the attacks on Facebook, The New York Times reported. The Times reported that a 28-year-old man from Australia was charged with murder and appeared on March 15 in a Christchurch courtroom. Christchurch is a city of some 400,000 people on the south island of New Zealand famed for its prowess in the sport of rugby, but also for a devestating earthquake in 2011. Court papers identified the suspect killer as Brenton Harrison Tarrant. The New Zealand police said he would face additional charges. The Rev. Ray Coster, a member of the World Council of Churches main governing body, its central committee, from New Zealand said, "We share with sisters and brothers in the wider ecumenical family our pain and grief in one of New Zealand's darkest hours and crave their prayers for the many Muslim families grieving at this time." "Some of these families may be migrants or refugees. They are part of us. Many came seeking refuge and safety as Aotearoa New Zealand is perceived as a safe place." He said that as a nation New Zealand values its compassion, kindness and tolerance. Rev. Olav Fykse Tveit, general secretary of the WCC, stated: "This terrible crime against women, men and children at the time of their prayers is an attack on all believers. He said it is an assault "on the bonds of shared humanity and peaceful coexistence which unite us all. "The WCC stands in solidarity with all Muslims at this time, especially the Muslims of Aotearoa New Zealand, and expresses the strongest possible condemnation of these actions and of the hateful and dangerous ideologies that stand behind them." In a statement, the heads of New Zealand's six Roman Catholic dioceses said they wished the Muslim community to "be aware of our solidarity with you in the face of such violence," Crux News reported. "We are profoundly aware of the positive relationships we have with Islamic people in this land, and we are particularly horrified that this has happened at a place and time of prayer. "We are deeply saddened that people have been killed and injured, and our hearts go out to them, their families and wider community. We wish you to be aware of our solidarity with you in the face of such violence," the bishops said. An ecumenical statement from church leaders in Christchurch and Canterbury said they were "absolutely devastated at the unprecedented situation in Christchurch this afternoon and our hearts and prayers go to all involved." "No religious organization or group deserves to be the target of someone's hate - regardless of beliefs," the statement said. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, said, "This is deeply shocking. At a time of growing hostility towards diversity, the humanity (that) the authorities and people of New Zealand have shown in their response is truly laudable." Grandi said the UNHCR stands by New Zealand, which he said has generously given refuge to people fleeing conflict and persecution, "and whose citizens warmly welcomed them into their towns and cities". He said the was an attack on the whole nation and its values of inclusion and respect for all its citizens. The WCC's Tviet said, "We affirm to all our Muslim friends and partners that we utterly reject such actions and call on all Christian people to follow in the way of Jesus Christ by seeking to live in peace and respect with all our neighbors, and especially committing ourselves to the protection of vulnerable minorities." In New Zealand Sonny Bill Williams a member of the famed All Blacks New Zealand rugby team, a devout Muslim who converted to Islam in 2008, expressed his deepest sympathies to the victims and their families. "Inshallah (God willing) you guys are all in paradise." "I'm just deeply, deeply saddened that this would happen in New Zealand," he said. The World Evangelical Alliance joined its national member body the New Zealand Christian Network in strongly condemning the tragic attacks on Muslims in two Mosques in Christchurch. The NZCN "has expressed horror and great sadness about the violent attacks today on Muslim people and mosques in Christchurch." Dr. Stuart Lange, a spokesperson of the NZCN called the attack "utterly appalling" and said it "will be deplored by all New Zealand people of all faiths or none." The network urges people to pray for all the families and communities which will be deeply affected, and to offer them support in every way possible. Bishop Efraim Tendero, Secretary General and CEO of the WEA, said: "With this terrorist attacks at Christchurch, we are once again reminded of the intertwined and deadly nature of prejudice and extremism, how it seeks to destroy and sow enmity among peace-loving people and communities. "As followers of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, we condemn such violence and state in the clearest terms that there is no justification whatsoever to commit such a heinous crime against people of any faith or no faith." Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 16) Last week, three of four invited senatorial candidates faced questions on pressing issues in the Philippines. This week, CNN Philippines will find out the positions of four more Senate aspirants on key issues in #TheFilipino Votes: Senatorial Forum. Let's get to know these candidates. GLENN CHONG Glenn Chong, a lawyer and a certified public accountant, is running under the Katipunan ng Demokratikong Pilipino (KDP). A former Biliran Representative, Chong is also an advocate of the hybrid polling system -- a combination of both manual and automated elections. Chong also wants to prohibit labor-only contracting in the Philippines. He graduated with an Accountancy Degree from the Cebu Institute of Technology and he also has a law degree at the University of San Carlos. TOTI CASINO Eduardo Vicente "Toti" Gonzales Casino is Chong's slatemate, as they are both running under Katipunan ng Demokratikong Pilipino (KDP). He was a former information technology (IT) consultant for the Commission on Elections. Casino graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the Ateneo de Manila University. He also earned a Masters degree for Public Administration at the University of the Philippines National College of Public Administration and Governance, with a major in Public Policy. Casino calls for reforms in the electoral system, a shift to renewable energy, and automated and computerized systems for legislation. LAWIN ARELLANO Ernesto "Lawin" Rillera Arellano is a lawyer eyeing one of the Senate seats. He was a founder of the Kilusang Mayo Uno, a labor activist group promoting unionism. Arellano graduated with a Bachelor of Laws at the Baguio Colleges Foundation (now University of Cordilleras). The Senate aspirant advocates for junking contractualization, decent jobs and wages for Filipinos, and strengthening the agricultural productivity of Filipino farmers. RICHARD ALFAJORA Richard Alfajora, a radio broadcaster, is running under the Katipunan ng Kamalayang Kayumanggi alongside Arellano. The Cebu-native Senate bet supports former Chief Justice Reynato Puno's federal draft charter. He also advocates for the redistribution of the coco levy fund and food security through organic and scientific farming. Catch the four Senate aspirants in CNN Philippines' The Filipino Votes, Senatorial Forum this Sunday at 5 p.m. Panama City, Mar 15 (epa-efe).- A proposed high-speed rail line between the Panamanian capital and the country's border with Costa Rica would require an investment of $4.1 billion, according to a feasibility study by the China Railway Design Corporation, presented here Friday. The railroad, meant to accommodate both passenger- and freight-trains traveling at speeds of up to 160km/h (99mph), would take six years to build and would generate 6,000 direct jobs during construction and 2,900 permanent positions. "The project is economically feasible because of the social profitability it represents," Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela said during the presentation. He said that the railway would promote tourism, boost the economy, increase the value of the surrounding land, reduce transportation times and lower costs, among other advantages. "It costs four times more to move a container internally in our country than it costs to send it to the ports of Asia," he said. The passenger train would make the journey from Panama City to the western province of Chiriqui in three hours or less. The trip now takes at least eight hours by road. The feasibility study was commissioned in 2017 by Varela during his first visit to China, coinciding with the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The project, which is awaiting approval, has the potential to extended into Costa Rica if the neighboring country expressed interest, the president said. Panama already has a 100-year-old rail line that runs parallel to the inter-oceanic canal and is used mainly to transport containers between ports, though it also serves for tourist excursions. "China and Panama are two very different nations, but both are convinced of the virtue of connection, union, communication and opening as the engine of the world economy," the Asian country's ambassador to Panama, Wei Qiang, said at the event. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties in June 2017, China has increased its presence in the Central American country and Chinese companies have been awarded multimillion-dollar contracts to build a bridge over the Panama Canal and a cruise-ship terminal. China is also the No. 2 user of the Panama Canal, behind the United States. United Nations, Mar 15 (epa-efe).- The United Nations paid tribute Friday to the 21 employees killed in this week's plane crash in Ethiopia, one of the worst tragedies for the world body in recent years. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres placed a wreath in the victims' honor during a ceremony at UN headquarters in New York. "They were from many agencies, with many areas of expertise, from the highest level in the hierarchy, to all kinds of functions in the UN," he said of the victims. "Yet together they were also a mirror of the United Nations: women and men, some in the beginning of their careers, others closing in on retirement but each on an individual mission, at the same time together, representing our larger quest - doing their part to build a better world, brick by brick, deed by deed, day in and day out," the former Portuguese prime minister said. "As we continue that mission, let us reflect on their lives, let us honor their service and let us be inspired by their extraordinary example," he said. All 157 people aboard were killed when an Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 Max-8 crashed last Sunday minutes after taking off from Addis Ababa bound for Nairobi. The UN entity most affected was the World Food Program, which lost seven workers in last Sunday's accident. The UN Refugee Agency and the UN Office in Nairobi each lost three employees in the disaster. Guterres commemorated the others who died in the crash and extended condolences to their families, while expressing solidarity with the people and government of Ethiopia. The ceremony concluded with a minute of silence. Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 carried a large number of representatives of international organizations and activist groups who were headed to Nairobi for the fourth session of the UN Environment Assembly. As a safety measure, the UN has instructed its agencies not to booking flights on Boeing 737 Max 8 and 9 aircraft, which many countries, including the United States, China and most of Europe, have barred from their airspace pending an investigation of the causes of the crash in Ethiopia. Australian senator egged after racist comments Australian Senator Fraser Anning had an egg smashed on his head while talking to the media in Australia. Queensland Senator Fraser Anning drew international condemnation for his efforts to blame the attack on Friday that killed 49 Muslim worshippers on immigration. Anning has been egged while speaking to the media at a political meeting at Moorabbin in Melbourne's south-east. "MUSLIM PRESENCE CAUSED THE ATTACK" Amid the controversy, an unnamed young man slapped an egg on the back of Anning's head during a news conference in Melbourne, prompting the senator to hit him in the face repeatedly before being stopped by what appeared to be a security guard. Anning had released a statement on Friday, claiming the growing fear of the 'increasing Muslim presence' was behind the New Zealand terror attack - which left 49 worshippers dead. Australian senator egged after racist comments WATCH New clashes as Yellow Vests seek new momentum French police fired tear gas and arrested dozens on Saturday in clashes with protesters as the yellow vest movement sought to inject new impetus into its four-month-old revolt. Protesters threw cobblestones at riot police through clouds of tear gas in front of Paris Arc de Triumphed monument, which was ransacked at the peak of the protests in December. Bonfires were started in nearby streets, with at least one car in flames. MORE THAN 30 PEOPLE WERE ARRESTED Police also used water cannons and had arrested more than 30 protesters by late morning as tensions flared at the top of Paris upmarket Champs Elysees avenue, where the windows of a high-end restaurant were smashed. France turns into a battlefield WATCH Protesters have promised to draw bigger numbers to mark the fourth month since the movement erupted in mid-November, over since-scrapped fuel tax hikes and the high cost of living. Named after the high visibility vests French drivers have to keep in their cars and worn by protesters, the revolt quickly swelled into a broader movement against Macron and his reforms. Russia concerns about US actions in Venezuela Two-thirds UN states refrain from recognizing Guaido as interim president as well. -The US intention to evacuate the rest of its embassy staff from Caracas is "alarming," according to Russian officials. "AN ACT OF SABOTAGE" "It is alarming because the news was accompanied by the comment of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that the presence of US personnel limits US actions. What are these actions?" Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told a Friday news conference in Moscow. She called a recent power outage in Venezuela "an act of sabotage, organized from outside, and said its "harmful impact on infrastructure" is being used as one of the tools of hybrid war. Despite US efforts, two-thirds of UN member states have not recognized Juan Guaido as Venezuela's interim president and Zakharova demanded Washington abandon its plans to overthrow the legitimate government. Turkey to send a delegation to N. Zealand President Erdogan set to send Turkish vice president, foreign minister in aftermath of Friday's deadly attacks on 2 mosques. Turkey will send a high-level delegation to New Zealand in the aftermath of Friday's mosque attacks which left at least 49 people dead, the Turkish president said. "THE MANIFESTO WAS NO INDIVIDUAL ACT" "I am sending our vice president, the foreign minister, and a delegation to New Zealand, said Recep Tayyip Erdogan Friday in a phone call to Dame Patsy Reddy, New Zealands governor-general, as shown in a video posted online by Erdogans communications director. "The manifesto that the terrorist released clearly shows that this was no individual act," added Erdogan, stressing the importance of exposing the groups behind the attacks, and offering Turkeys help. On their trip to New Zealand, Vice-President Fuat Oktay and Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu will convey Turkeys condolences over the attacks, the Foreign Ministry later announced. The delegation will stress Turkey's resolve against Islamophobia and xenophobia and its solidarity with New Zealand in the face of these "heinous" terror attacks, said a ministry statement. Gunmen opened fire on worshippers during Friday prayers at the Al Noor and Linwood mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. Turkish VP urges unity against Islamophobia Turkey will stand by New Zealand in its fight against terrorism, Fuat Oktay says. Turkeys vice president on Saturday urged the international community to stand up against Islamophobia, xenophobia, radicalism, and racism, in the wake of Friday's terror attacks in New Zealand. TURKEY STANDS BY NEW ZEALAND Speaking at Istanbul Airport before leaving for New Zealand, Fuat Oktay said: This terrorist act, unfortunately, has shown us once again that there are no limits of hostility to Islam. We invite the whole world to stand up against Islamophobia, xenophobia, radicalism, and racism, Oktay said. Taking effective measures against Islamophobia-related problems has become crucial beyond necessity in today's world, he added. Turkey, as a country, which has suffered great casualties from terrorism and has opposed all forms of terrorism will stand by New Zealand in its fight against terrorism, the VP stated. White nationalism not problem, says Trump 'I think its a small group of people that have very, very serious problems, I guess,' president says. US President Donald Trump said Friday white nationalism is not a rising threat after a racist gunman shot dead 49 victims at two mosques in New Zealand. "I THINK IT'S A SMALL GROUP" "I think its a small group of people that have very, very serious problems, I guess," Trump told reporters at the White House. "If you look at what happened in New Zealand, perhaps thats the case. I dont know enough about it yet. They're just learning about the person, and the people involved. But its certainly a terrible thing. The casualty toll for the attack includes 12 victims who were critically injured and officials are warning that figure could rise. Forty-two people were injured in the coordinated attacks, Karalyn van Deursen, executive communications director at Christchurch Hospital, told Anadolu Agency. The dead include a 5-year-old girl and her father, who were chased by a gunman and shot, local Radio New Zealand reported. The gunman opened fire on worshippers during Friday prayers at the Al Noor and Linwood mosques in and around Christchurch, New Zealands third-largest city. By the time the cars full of college students started clogging the Queen Isabella Memorial Causeway, South Padre Island resident and teacher Shane Wilson had driven far away. Due to the past debacle of spring break over the years, we have left, he said Friday as he and his wife hit the road from a visit to San Antonio and headed south for a few nights in McAllen. While away, they donated their home as temporary housing for some of South Padre Islands expanded spring break police force. This year, however, brought what was expected to be a big change. The University of Texas at Austin and Texas State University both scheduled spring breaks the third week of March instead of the second, breaking from the Texas Week tradition. But South Padre Island spokeswoman Nikki Soto said Texas Week hadnt slowed down much as a result. What weve been hearing is that because UT and Texas State changed (their Spring Break schedules), they thought we might change. But we didnt, Soto said. The citys roughly 2,800 year-round population has in recent years swelled by more than 50,000 during the month of March. While Spring Break generates millions in gross sales and tax revenue, the sudden swarm of beer-guzzling young people can be both taxing to locals and dangerous to the carousers. In 2017, there were three deaths during Texas Week, the second week of March and typically when most Texas colleges and universities break from studies. Police logs for March and April 2017 showed 762 responses for misdemeanors and more serious offenses. However, authorities reported no fatalities in 2018. Police responses dropped slightly to 738. There have been some changes since then. City officials now conduct an extensive post-spring break debriefing examining what worked and what could have been done better. The city hired 47 police officers from neighboring jurisdictions to work part-time in 2018, compared with 18 the year before. Theres now a team monitoring social media to try to get ahead of pop-up parties. Those folks that live there the residents theyre in a high traffic area. Their yard gets used as a toilet, Shane Wilson said. The police have done a real good job of squelching the big parties. One of the weeks biggest events was a concert by hip-hop stars Cardi B and Rich the Kid at Rockstar Beach on March 13. Buddy Young, coordinator since 1980 of a church ministry called Beach Reach, said the concert put his hundreds of university student volunteers to the test. Cardi B started about an hour and a half late, a long time for the throngs who had been drinking all day. The crowd had been there since 11 oclock, Young said. So there were a lot of dehydrations, a lot of people had a lot of things going on. Night brought the Eli Young Band and a second round of craziness, he said. Young, director of the Baptist Student Ministry at West Texas A&M University, flew home Friday for a few days before returning for the second wave of Spring Breakers and the second convoy of church buses full of volunteers to give rides, serve up post-bar pancakes and talk about the gospel. Beach Reach last week had 550 volunteers give rides to 11,500 people and feed 7,500 people. There will be another crew of 250 next week. The spring breaks in Texas are evenly split in Texas, he said. And so the schools that are available to go the second week, thats what were doing. Israel Mendez, director of a group of about 20 students from the University of Texas at San Antonio and Baptist University of the Americas, said the week was a yearly highlight for both him and the student volunteers. For me, its one of the things that excites me most for the year, he said. Even though its a week of not sleeping. The reception is incredibly overwhelmingly good for the most part, Mendez added. There have been several stories about students who went one year and they were partying, and then the next year they were helping out with Beach Reach. Lynn Brezosky is a San Antonio-based staff writer covering trade, agriculture and the economy. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | lbrezosky@express-news.net | Twitter: @lbrezosky A camera mounted to his head, the gunman who livestreamed part of his savage attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, on Friday began his video by casually making reference to a current internet meme. He appeared to be steeped in the culture of the extreme-right internet. And in the terrible minutes of video that followed, he proved to be a nonchalant, unrepentant killer. As of Friday night, the gunman had not been identified by the authorities. But just before the attack began, a man who said he was a 28-year-old from Australia published a link on a right-wing forum to a 74-page manifesto, and another link on the same forum to a personal Facebook page with the video that would soon document the slaughter. Based on the video, the manifesto and social media posts, a picture has begun to emerge of a man primarily driven by white nationalism and a desire to drive cultural, political and racial wedges between people across the globe. That, he hoped, would stoke discord and, eventually, more violence between races. It is unclear whether the Facebook user is the man whom the authorities in New Zealand have charged in the shootings that have left at least 49 people dead. They have said only that the suspect is a man in his 20s. Australias main public broadcaster reported that the Facebook user worked as a personal trainer at a gym in the city of Grafton after finishing school in 2009 until 2011, when he left to travel overseas. Where exactly his travels took him was not immediately known, but the manifestos author wrote that he explored much of Europe in the spring of 2017. And a man using the same name visited the Gilgit-Baltistan administrative territory of Pakistan in October, people at two hotels there confirmed. Asghar Khan, the manager of operations at the Serena Hotel there, said the man seemed like a nature-loving traveler. Syed Israr Hussain, owner of the nearby Osho Thang hotel, said he stayed there for two or three days with a group of backpackers. He was normal and polite during his stay, Hussain said. There was nothing out of the ordinary. The gunman appeared to pair the shooting with the typical trolling tactics of the internets most far-right instigators, playing to a community of like-minded supporters online who cheered him on in real time as they watched bodies pile up. And the manifesto states plainly what usually goes unstated by internet trolls: By design, its author wanted to get everyone upset and arguing with each other. One of the goals of his bloodshed, he wrote, was to agitate the political enemies of my people into action, to cause them to overextend their own hand and experience the eventual and inevitable backlash as a result. He said he wanted to incite violence, retaliation and further divide. The manifesto, the harrowing video and what appear to be the gunmans social media posts feature typical white nationalist rhetoric with layers upon layers of irony and meta jokes, making it difficult to parse what is genuine and what he just thought was funny. The gunman seems to have a significant interest in history at least, the parts that fit into a white nationalist narrative. On his weapons, he wrote the names of centuries-old military leaders who led battles against largely nonwhite forces, along with the names of men who recently carried out mass shootings of Jews and Muslims. The manifesto refers to nonwhites as invaders who threaten to replace white people. The author says he used guns instead of other weapons because he wanted the United States to tear itself apart arguing over gun laws. His choice of language, and the specific memes he referred to, suggest a deep connection to the far-right online community. The link to the livestreamed video was first posted to the /pol/ forum of 8chan, a notorious far-right space, where the gunman was hailed as a hero after the shooting. Some of his references were subtle. As he drove to the mosque, he listened to a song associated with a 1995 Serbian nationalist video, which has recently been co-opted as a racist meme. What might appear to be a bizarre, rambling section of the manifesto was actually a relatively old meme known as Navy Seal Copypasta, a faux rant that is copied and pasted to indicate faux toughness. On 8chan, he uploaded an image titled screw your optics, a phrase Robert Bowers, the man accused of fatally shooting 11 people at a Pittsburgh synagogue in October, was said to have used. Other references were more mainstream. Subscribe to PewDiePie, the gunmans call at the beginning of the video, is a recent meme, referring to the YouTube star whose real name is Felix Kjellberg but the gunmans use of the phrase should not necessarily be read as an endorsement. (PewDiePie, a polarizing figure with a populist appeal, said on Twitter that he was absolutely sickened having my name uttered by this person.) At times, the manifesto creates dubious associations with cultural figures he knows to be lightning rods for criticism. He wrote that Candace Owens, a black conservative commentator in the United States, was most responsible for radicalizing him, a claim that seemed intended as a joke. He called President Donald Trump a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose, but mocked him as a policy maker and leader. He railed against diversity, praising non diverse nations like China, which he said most closely shared his political and social values. In a question-and-answer section of the manifesto, he asked himself: Where did he research and develop his beliefs? The internet, of course, he wrote. You will not find the truth anywhere else. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. A deaf man whose son attends Tafolla Middle School has sued the San Antonio Independent School District, claiming he requested sign language interpreters for multiple parent-teacher conferences but was never provided them as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act and other laws. Cleto Rodriguez not to be confused with the local comedian of the same name filed the suit last year in federal court in the Western District of Texas. He seeks unspecified damages, said his lawyer, Andrew Rozynski of Eisenberg & Baum in New York, a firm that works with clients who are deaf or hard of hearing. My client hopes that this sends a message to all school districts that they not only have to accommodate their students, but the disabled parents of students who want to be involved in their childs education, Rozynski said. Its just as important. SAISD has denied the allegations. Rodriguez, 44, is profoundly deaf and communicates primarily in American Sign Language, according to the suit. At the start of the 2016-2017 school year, his sons grades began to drop and the boy was increasingly being disciplined at Tafolla Middle, the suit said. The boy said he was being bullied because his father and aunt were deaf and his teachers were failing to intervene, according to the suit. The school called Rodriguez, the boys primary caretaker, for a conference, Rozynski said. Rodriguez took the call with the help of a government-subsidized video interpreter service, Rozynski said. Rodriguez told school staff he was deaf and would need an interpreter for the meeting, the suit said. When Rodriguez arrived for the meeting, there was no interpreter, according to the suit. Rodriguez asked to reschedule, provided an interpreter agencys business card and asked for an interpreter at all future conferences and parent events, the suit said. The school called Rodriguez again several weeks later about his sons behavioral problems, according to the suit. Rodriguez went again to the school for a meeting, and again there was no interpreter, but that time Rodriguez brought family along to translate, the suit said. When Rodriguezs mother asked why no interpreter was present, Tafolla staff said they couldnt get one, according to the suit. The school called Rodriguez for meetings four or five more times but never provided an interpreter, the suit states. In denying the allegations in court documents, SAISD claimed Rodriguez failed to engage in a good faith dialogue to request aid before meetings or events he wanted to participate in and that he would simply appear for an event or a meeting without first requesting an auxiliary aid or service. The district also said it offered unspecified assistance for Rodriguez to participate in some events or meetings, but Rodriguez refused the offers. SAISD spokeswoman Leslie Price said the school district would not comment further while litigation continues. As a general practice, she said, the school district provides sign language interpreters to parents upon request for conferences and other events such as open houses, graduations and awards ceremonies. Rozynski disputed SAISDs denials. Based on our investigation of the facts, he clearly requested interpreters and they just tried to use family members, Rozynski said, claiming school staff also told Rodriguez they only provided sign language interpreters to students. In court documents, Rodriguez said he was denied interpreters between 2016 and last year, when he sued under the ADA, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Texas Human Resources Code. Rozynski said Rodriguez is asking for damages in the amount a jury chooses to award. He is also seeking injunctions ordering SAISD to provide sign language interpreters for his parent-teacher conferences and other school events, to implement a policy forbidding discrimination against deaf and hard-of-hearing parents and to train employees about the rights of deaf and hard-of-hearing people. Alia Malik covers several school districts and the Alamo Colleges District in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | amalik@express-news.net | Twitter: @AliaAtSAEN Envelope in hand, Reginald Lloyd walked off the stage Friday morning and approached a map of the United States, where he placed a sticker on San Antonio. Lloyd had just announced to a boisterous crowd gathered at John T. Floore Country Store in Helotes for national Match Day that he would be doing his residency training in psychiatry at the same place he had just finished medical school: UT Health San Antonio. He will join 16 percent of the schools 2019 graduating class to remain in San Antonio for the next step in their medical training. Forty-two percent of the class is staying in Texas. Training here was the first choice for Lloyd, 31, who wants to practice medicine in his hometown and in a specialty in high demand. Not all Texas medical school graduates have the opportunity to remain in the state. In recent years, residencies have become increasingly competitive in Texas, where a spate of new medical schools could soon produce more graduates than there are residency slots. That mismatch could lead future doctors educated here to leave Texas and not return at the same time it faces a growing physician shortage. Exporting doctors Dr. Woodson Scott Jones, vice dean for graduate medical education at UT Health San Antonios Long School of Medicine, estimates medical graduates could surpass the number of residency slots by 2021 if no action is taken. One hindrance is the high cost of residencies. Each year, a portion of students who graduate from Texas medical schools will leave for competitive residency opportunities elsewhere in the United States, regardless of how many spots are available here. On Friday, when graduating medical students across the country found out their residency assignments, some UT Health San Antonio graduates were matched with prestigious sites across the country, including at the Minnesota-based Mayo Clinic and the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. But if too many leave, that would help feed the growing doctor shortage in Texas, which is particularly dire in primary care, psychiatry and general surgery, Jones said. Because physicians tend to put down roots where they complete their medical training Texas retains about 80 percent of the doctors who train here the state would be essentially exporting future physicians, he said. On ExpressNews.com: State report projects primary-care shortage to get worse Growing medical schools but not residencies is foolish, Jones said. Its a very poor investment on the part of the state. Expanding graduate medical education is a nationwide concern, but it is felt acutely in Texas. In the past decade, the state has heralded new medical schools in Austin, the Rio Grande Valley and San Antonio, where the University of the Incarnate Word recently opened a school of osteopathic medicine. You have a lot of qualified medical students whove gone through all of this time, who have accrued all of this debt, have all this knowledge and dont have the ability to apply it because theres not enough political will to actually create the residency spots needed, said Lloyd, the newly minted graduate. It really doesnt make sense to have a lot of medical students without adequate spots for them to actually seek training. Additional schools have been approved at Sam Houston State University, the University of Houston and the University of North Texas Health Science Center, which last year pledged to create 500 new residencies. Related: UIW medical school to relieve primary care shortage Although UIW will not graduate its first class until 2021, Thomas Mohr, the schools associate dean for graduate medical education, said it has three active residency programs with San Antonio Community-Based Family Medicine, Laredo Internal Medicine and Laredo Family Medicine and will be unveiling a psychiatry residency this summer. The programs, designed to target underserved populations, are being funded by a combination of funding from the state, hospitals and philanthropy, he said. As a private school, UIW is not required by the state to develop residencies, but we feel it is an ethical imperative and a moral obligation, he said. Subsidizing medical residents The largest residency program in San Antonio is run by UT Health San Antonio, which currently has around 830 residents and fellows completing their medical training here. The majority, 66 percent, train at University Hospital, while a quarter are assigned to the veterans health care system. The remainder train with the military or are scattered at other hospitals and practices throughout the city. On Friday, UT Health San Antonio matched with 178 residents through the National Resident Matching Program, 12 more than last year. The cost of eight of the additional slots will be covered by University, while four are being funded by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, according to UT Health San Antonio. A major source of money for medical residencies is a combination of federal and state dollars. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services funds graduate medical programs through reimbursements, but the number of residents it covers at teaching hospitals has been capped since 1997, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges. In Texas, the coordinating board also provides funding for first-year residencies and for the creation of new residency programs. But the financial burden of training residents can still fall heavily on hospitals, said Dr. Robert Hromas, dean of the Long School in San Antonio. Each of the schools residents costs about $100,000 to train per year, a sum that includes a modest salary and administrative expenses. Because federal and state money does not fully cover its residents, Hromas said, University allocates more than $20 million each year to fill the gap. If University Hospital hadnt subsidized their residency program, San Antonio would be in trouble as far as getting physicians to practice here, Hromas said. Catch-up mode For specialities where physicians are in short supply, like psychiatry, residency programs can serve as a vital recruitment pool for hospitals. Carol Carver, chief operating officer for Clarity Child Guidance Center, said the majority of the doctors with its affiliated physicians group trained at the child psychiatric hospital through UT Health San Antonios residency program. Baylor College of Medicine, which runs a small and relatively new pediatrics residency program at the Childrens Hospital of San Antonio, matched with 13 residents on Friday for its fifth class from a pool of 1,049 applicants. Five of the new residents are from Texas. Dr. Mark Gilger, who recently became the residency director at the Childrens Hospital, said its program was started with the need for more graduate medical training in mind. After the hospital graduated its first class of 10 doctors last year, all but one went into practice in San Antonio, he said. In order to address it locally, youve got to train them locally, Gilger said of the physician shortage. UT Health San Antonio leaders are hopeful that the Texas Legislature will allocate more money this session to medical residencies. Legislators appropriated $53 million in 2015 to the coordinating boards Graduate Medical Education Expansion program and $97.1 million in 2017, according to the coordinating board. We have seen in this sort of catch-up mode, the Legislatures kind of catching us up where we need to be, Jones said. Lauren Caruba covers health care and medicine in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | lcaruba@express-news.net | Twitter: @LaurenCaruba Texas U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro and members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus want the Homeland Security Department to explain why it keeps a database for tracking journalists, lawyers and advocates related to a migrant caravan that traveled to the border with Mexico last year. In a letter today to Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen, the members of Congress demanded details on the information the agency collected and under what authority the program - called Operation Secure Line - was initiated. The fact that DHS would track U.S. journalists, attorneys and volunteers attempting to do their jobs when they have committed no crime is deeply concerning, the letter read. The letter referred to a March 6 report by an NBC affiliate in San Diego, based on leaked documents, about a secret database of targets. Texas Take: Get political headlines from across the state sent directly to your inbox NBC 7 said documents, obtained from an unnamed government source, listed people identified for screening at the border and that some of them had been temporarily detained. In some cases, alerts were placed on passports, preventing at least two photojournalists and a lawyer from crossing the border, the report said. In response, a Customs and Border Protection spokesperson said that caravans traveling through Mexico to the U.S. border present increased and new challenges to an already complicated and dangerous mission It is protocol following these incidents to collect evidence that might be needed for future legal actions and to determine if the event was orchestrated. Castro, who chairs the Hispanic Caucus, and Rep. Veronica Escobar, of El Paso, were the two Texans who signed the letter. Reports that journalists have been held for 13-plus hours for questioning, have been stopped or returned from traveling to do their work, and that lawyers have had sensitive legal documents reviewed by CBP officials is likewise troubling, the letter read. It suggests that the government may be using its power at the border to suppress reporting on issues it would prefer to shield from the public eye. For most of the past three years, immigration has taken the lions share of the news. Theres one primary reason: Anti-immigration border wall coverage on TV is constant. Certain politicians and news personalities even used it as their tool of choice during the 2018 midterm elections. By maintaining the assault, they stoke a volatile firestorm of fearmongering they created precisely for political purposes. As lateral targets, U.S. citizens of Mexican-descent suffer, as well. They are increasingly objects of bigotry just because they exercise their First Amendment right to speak Spanish as two vacationing women experienced in Montana last year when their conversation in a convenience store a led to their detention by a Customs and Border Protection agent. Not surprisingly, mainstream society is just as misinformed about immigration as they are about early (pre-1836) Texas history. The two issues are related. Maintaining a rigid intolerant stance, self-described white nativists are quick to employ two primary themes in condemning todays immigrants: Respect U.S. national borders, and U.S. sovereignty is sacred. The truth is that violating borders and disrespecting the sovereignty of other countries are main features of our national makeup. The U.S. violated those two noble principles by seizing more than half of Mexican-sovereign territory. By invading Mexico, the U.S. placed the present U.S.-Mexico border in the middle of Old Mexico, single-handedly producing the current dilemma on our southern border. The U.S. looks as it does today because of President James K. Polks ploy, the U.S.-Mexico war of 1846-48. Extracting harsh terms for ending the war, the U.S. unilaterally moved Texas southern border from the Nueces River to the Rio Grande, separating Texas and South Texas then the northern part of the state of Tamaulipas from Mexico, but also subsuming present-day New Mexico, Arizona, California, Colorado, parts of Utah and Nevada, and the surrounding region all the way to the Canadian border. Fifty years later, in 1898, the U.S. again violated another countrys sovereignty by invading the Hawaiian Islands. Unfairly consuming the islands and adding them to its empire, the U.S. deposed Queen Liliuokalani, the sovereign head of Hawaii. To this day, her descendants and Native Hawaiians oppose the U.S. occupation of their land. As for the current debate over our border with Mexico, consider the following situation: Imagine you live in a home you built on a large tract of land thats been in your family for many years. For some time now, youve noticed your next-door neighbor disregarding the fence boundary. You watch as he and his family and friends make themselves at home in your backyard. You wait, hoping your neighbors come to their senses and realize theyre trespassing. Instead, you are surprised when your neighbor knocks on your door and demands that you move your back fence closer to your house. Of course, you protest and are compelled to fight back. Sadly, the neighbor is better armed, and you lose the fight. Worse, under duress you are forced to give the invader more than half your land. In The Mexican-American War of 1846-1848 (A Deceitful Smoke Screen), author Humberto Garza presents a well-researched account of the deliberate steps that Polk took to fulfill his expansionist ambitions. Specifically, sending the military and armed agents to bully Mexico into a shooting war. So, what does mainstream U.S. history say about this violent encounter? Well, first it insists that it was all Mexicos fault. That may be why mainstream historians sometimes refer to the U.S.-Mexico War as the Mexican War, thereby disowning any U.S. responsibility. Second, in winning the war, the U.S. version of history has an Anglo Saxon narrative. Thats because conventional U.S. historians have traditionally hidden the heavyhandedness of the Colossus of the North in its adverse acquisition of Mexicos sovereign land. According to Polk, the U.S. was defending itself because Mexican soldiers killed U.S. soldiers on U.S. soil (in Texas). That refers to an incident in which a U.S. military unit crossed the Nueces River into the state of Tamaulipas. Warned to leave Mexico, the Anglo trespassers refused. They were then defeated in battle. Polk planned this event, was waiting for it and used it to his advantage. Using the ruse to agitate his pro-war supporters, Congress expansionists quickly approved funds to conduct Polks war of aggression. Sadly, although Mexican troops honorably and heroically defended their sovereign soil, they were overwhelmed by the U.S. invaders. In reconsidering the events, not only is the starting point for the war flawed, but the entire foundation was built within a fog of lies. For one thing, Polks staged clash was geographically untrue. The incident took place in northern Tamaulipas, not Texas. Not all national leaders supported Polks land grab. Speaking for integrity, Congressman Abraham Lincoln helped write an amendment to a House resolution declaring that the war with Mexico was a war unnecessarily and unconstitutionally begun by the President of the United States. Lincoln also challenged Polk to provide not only convincing proof of the serious charges but also the exact location where the incident had taken place. Following is Lincolns assessment: But, if he (Polk) cannot or will not do this (prove the Texas claim to the Rio Grande border) if on any pretense or no pretense he shall refuse or omit it then I shall be fully convinced of what I more than suspect already that he is deeply conscious of being in the wrong; that he feels the blood of this war, like the blood of Abel, is crying to heaven against him. Despite Lincolns astute appeal, the president refused to budge. Thats because Polk was obsessed with delivering his major campaign promise to his base: U.S. expansion to the Pacific Ocean at the expense of the sovereign Republic of Mexico. Polk had long planned to provoke Mexico by admitting Texas into the union as a slave state; taking advantage of Mexicos chaotic political instability; supporting a small group of Anglo immigrants revolt in California; and plotting with other expansionists to coerce Mexico into selling New Mexico to the U.S. History records that his devious plan worked. Knowledge feeds understanding; intolerance breeds ignorance. My sincere expectation is that this article serves to counteract todays narrow-minded argument regarding U.S. borders and sovereignty. In that regard, it is fitting to end with the words of Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th president of the United States. He wrote these words to explain his regret for being involved in the war and to expose U.S. contempt for Mexicos borders and sovereignty: For myself, I was bitterly opposed to the measure, and to this day, regard the war with Mexico, which resulted, as one of the most unjust ever waged by a stronger against a weaker nation. It was an instance of a republic following the bad example of European monarchies, in not considering justice in their desire to acquire additional territory. Jose Joe Antonio Lopez was born and raised in Laredo and is an Air Force veteran. He lives in Universal City. His latest book is Preserving Early Texas History (Essays of an Eighth-Generation South Texan), Volume 2. Lopez is also the founder of the Tejano Learning Center and www.tejanosunidos.org, a website dedicated to Spanish-Mexican people and events in U.S. history that are mostly overlooked in mainstream history books. This commentary first appeared in the Rio Grande Guardian International News Service. A friend just returned from some time with a group of wealthy conservative donors. They were ambivalent about Donald Trump two years ago, he said. Now they are vociferously pro-Trump. Theres a psychological study to be done here. Those in and around Republican politics have seen this dynamic at work. In spite of past misgivings, most GOP partisans seem to have accepted the idea that Trump is their guy in the broader culture/political war. They have rallied to his defense in a way reminiscent of how Democrats rallied to Bill Clinton during his scandal and impeachment. The problem, of course, is that Trump unlike Bill Clinton is incapable of effective outreach to less partisan voters. To the contrary, he has confirmed public suspicions about his unfitness and instability. There is no measurable sense in which Trump has grown into the office he holds. He remains defiantly nativist, instinctually divisive, habitually offensive. A significant portion of the voting public has gone from ambivalence about Trump to alarm, hostility and disdain. So, in the 2018 midterm election, Trump tried to nationalize the election on issues that motivate his party appealing to those voters who are excited by exclusion. And GOP partisans responded by turning out in large numbers. But it was not nearly enough to counteract greater public fears. In other words, the politics of partisan mobilization only works if you dont scare the rest of America to death. Republicans have come to the defense of a man who is incapable of widening his appeal. And this has opened up a reality gap between the GOP and the rest of our political culture. The rift between Republican perceptions of the president and the view of the broader public has grown into a chasm. Why have Republicans fallen in line with a politician who has sometimes targeted their own party and leaders for populist disdain? Why have conservatives come to the defense of a leader with decidedly unconservative views on trade and foreign policy? Why have religious conservatives embraced the living, breathing embodiment of defining deviancy down? This phenomenon would benefit from a psychological study. Those who violate their own beliefs for political gain elevating the ends of politics over the means of character become mentally invested in their choice. There is a reason that enablers enable because a more objective self-assessment would bring guilt and pain. At one level, the reality is not complex. Trump is a populist demagogue who gains permission for his brand of politics by giving favored groups certain ideological benefits particularly a tax cut, regulatory relief and conservative judges. I happen to agree with some of those decisions. But they are part of a system or structure that was created to provide legitimacy for a general lowering of political and moral standards. At the level of raw politics, this deal has worked. A president who panders to the religious right may end up being more reliable than a leader who is actually a religious conservative and thinks for himself or herself. Pandering is utterly predictable. Conscience makes distinctions. But there is a downside to the deal. This particular demagogue requires not just consent but approval. And not just approval but obeisance. So religious conservatives end up blessing what Pete Buttigieg memorably called the porn-star presidency. Deficit hawks vote for massive increases in debt. Economic conservatives accommodate the instincts of an economically illiterate leader. Military hawks endorse a foreign policy that resembles Barack Obamas, except with more praise of dictations and less backbone. To ensure the political triumph of their views, these partisans must publicly dilute and discredit those views. Trump offers true believers an uncomfortable arrangement: What you would save you must first defile. The historical judgment on that deal depends on how destructive Trump ends up being to our public order. Making the case for Trump requires his advocates to consistently minimize his vices. Rather than conceding Trumps demolition of public standards of honesty and decency, his supporters pronounce him a little rough around the edges. His racial bias is dismissed as straight talk or rhetorical excess. His testing of constitutional boundaries is an excess of zeal. His cruelty and crudity are, when you get used to them, just part of the show. But if, as I suspect, Trumps deception, indecency, racism, viciousness and lawlessness are uniquely dangerous to our democracy, his enablers will find their deal more difficult to explain. michaelgerson@washpost.com History has a strange sense of justice for those documenting and preserving it for posterity. Even historians are not immune to the quirks and turns of the Greek sense of moira, the fates who weave a grand sense of cosmic irony over mortals. In the plaza of San Angel, Mexico, a plaque reads, In Memory of the Heroic Battalion of St. Patrick Martyrs Who Gave Their Lives in the Mexican Cause during the Unjust North American Invasion of 1847. The St. Patricks Battalion (1846-1848), part of the Mexican army made up of men of European descent, was led by John Reilly, a union soldier who deserted because he felt compelled to follow a higher order than a decree that violated human rights and basic human decency. Back then, America was swept by a raging fever Manifest Destiny, a manufactured belief that the early republic needed to occupy all lands stretching west across the Mississippi. California, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah and parts of Colorado were easy targets of western expansionism. Once Texas was admitted into the Union as a slave state, the land-grab expanded, and President James Polk got his war with Mexico. Manifest Destiny was a convenient crisis to justify something unjustifiable. Not all were taken by the rhetoric. A young, junior officer named Ulysses S. Grant wrote in his memoirs, I do not think there ever was a more wicked war than that waged by the United States in Mexico. I thought so at the time, when I was a youngster, only I had not moral courage enough to resign. Even John Quincy Adams opposed the war and referred to the U.S. conflict with Mexico as a most unrighteous war. But those who did have the moral courage paid a heavy price. Capt. John Riley of Galway, Ireland, became disillusioned with his newly adopted country after a series of misfortunes at the hands of military officers who regularly flogged Irish and German Catholic soldiers over the tiniest infractions and reneged on military payments. Anti-Catholicism was rampant, and immigrants from Ireland and Germany were lured into signing up for military service right off the boats. They needed work to send money back home. As the war festered, untrained units from Texas mainly Texas volunteers saw opportunities to settle old scores with Mexico. According to the website The Ancient Order of Hibernians, under the subject The San Patricios: Serving in the disputed Mexican territory, the Irish couldnt believe the actions of the US military. In trying to initiate hostility, churches were desecrated, religious processions disrupted and drunken soldiers, who raped, pillaged and burned Mexican villages and churches, were only sent home. Riley led the unit composed of hundreds of immigrants and expatriates of European descent who fought with brave hearts in five major battles from Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, to Churubusco in Mexico City. But a mightier force prevailed, and U.S. Gen. Winfield Scott won the war. After the war, some 30 from Rileys battalion were hanged near the steps of El Castillo de Chapultepec, while another 48 were sentenced to hanging. Riley, however, was spared, and tied to a post and flogged until he passed out. After a branding of D for deserter on his cheeks, Riley and his comrades were freed. They returned to Mexico to serve out time in the Mexican army, and Riley retired as a major. History about deserters is usually absent from textbooks because it disrupts the patriotic narrative. Riley is not forgotten in his native Ireland nor the country that adopted him. Historians note a sad irony: Years after the Civil War, President Andrew Johnson gave a full pardon and amnesty to Confederate soldiers for the offense of treason against the United States. Rafael Castillo, who teaches English and humanities at Palo Alto College, is the author of Distant Journeys and Aurora. We interrupt the talk of the president manufacturing a crisis at the border with this hair-raising report about the crisis at the border. Alarming new numbers about border apprehensions from U.S. Customs and Border Protection should puncture the lazy conventional wisdom about the border being under control, except in the lurid imagination of President Donald Trump. More than 76,000 migrants were apprehended crossing the southern border last month, the highest February in more than 10 years and the highest month of the Trump administration. The number of apprehensions tops any month during the 2014 border surge under President Barack Obama, which no one had a problem calling a crisis at the time. Every indication is that the situation is going to get worse. We could be about to experience a migrant surge worthy of Angela Merkel at her most openhanded, even though, in immigration terms, Viktor Orban the Hungarian prime minister who favors tough border enforcement is president. Yes, there were more overall apprehensions in the 2000s. But it was a different population, made up overwhelmingly of adult males from Mexico who might be apprehended trying to cross multiple times and were reliably returned home when they were caught. Now, we are apprehending people but not returning them. Migrants are coming in greater numbers from Central American countries instead of Mexico, and they are primarily families and children. In an astonishing shift, in 2012, 10 percent of apprehended migrants were families and children; in recent months, its been 61 percent. The rules for dealing with migrants from noncontiguous countries and with family units make it all but impossible to swiftly return or detain them, not to mention that our physical facilities were built with single adults in mind. There is no mechanism to return these migrants home, to hold them after they cross the border or to remove them once they are in the interior. And word has gotten out. Theres a reason that the subset of migrants that we cant stop from getting into the country is growing so rapidly. Needless to say, a spiraling border crisis is maddening for a president committed to controlling the border, which is why weve seen such frenetic activity from Trump. Hes tried to prosecute all adults crossing the border illegally and had to abandon it in the (understandable) firestorm over the resulting family separations. Hes tried to jawbone Mexico into helping, with some success, although migrants are still traveling through Mexico in large numbers. Hes tried to tighten asylum policy but been blocked in the courts. Hes tried to get Congress to fix the rules for dealing with migrants, to no avail. And, of course, hes tried to build a wall. Trumps rhetoric may be over the top, but the impulse to get a handle on this is absolutely correct. First, theres the question of basic sovereignty. If we are going to welcome a large number of migrants from three or four foreign countries, we should make that decision as a conscious policy, rather than slip-sliding into it unawares. Then theres the matter of assimilation and legality. Poorly educated immigrants, like the ones coming from Central America, have the hardest time assimilating, and they will lack legal status on top of it. Finally, theres the humanitarian question. Migrant families show up needing medical attention that we arent well-prepared to provide. Wed be much better positioned to tend to the migrants under our care if the numbers werent overwhelming. But we are at a stalemate. The New York Times editorialized the other day that Trump declared that theres a crisis at the border, contrary to all evidence. Then, the paper ran a news story headlined, Border at Breaking Point as More than 76,000 Migrants Cross in a Month. Both of those pieces cant be right. Theres manufacturing a crisis, then theres ignoring one for fear of conceding anything to Trump. comments.lowry@nationalreview.com The Southern Baptist Convention needs to revisit the recent actions of its bylaws group, which gave short shrift to attempts to launch an investigation into the activities of certain member churches. Without conducting any investigation, the SBC Bylaws Workgroup quickly began walking back attempts by the SBC president to address public concerns about handling of sexual abuses in its ranks. A monthslong investigation by the Express-News and Houston Chronicle published last month detailed hundreds of incidents of rape, molestation and other sexual misconduct within the largest coalition of Baptist churches in the U.S., documenting more than 700 victims, many of them minors. This correctly opened a national dialogue on sexual abuse within Baptist churches. At the center of the discussion was the SBCs failure to address the festering problem because of the autonomy the organization gives its member churches. It was a great relief to hear SBC President J.D. Greear publicly acknowledge the abuse and demand scrutiny of the 10 churches identified in the newspaper articles for their handling of sexual abuse to determine if they should be removed from the group. Greear said all the things one would expect from someone trying to manage a crisis. This is not a fabricated story made up by people with a secular agenda. Weve not taken reports of abuse in our churches as seriously as our Gospel demands, and sometimes even worse, outright ignored or silenced victims. Its time we back up our words with actions, he said in speech to SBC leaders in Nashville, Tenn., on Feb. 18. Less than a week later, Ken Alford of Valdosta, Ga., chairman of the SBCs bylaws workgroup, announced his group was removing seven of the 10 churches and asked Baptist leaders to refrain from publicly criticizing churches without giving them an opportunity to respond. The backlash from SBC pastors and sexual assault survivors was swift and loud. They decried the lack of investigation and the workgroups failure to contact many of the survivors. Alford resigned shortly thereafter, citing controversy and angst over his former committees vote to end inquiries into multiple churches. His resignation raises serious questions about which path the SBC will take in its investigation. In his resignation letter, Alford said it was unfair of Greear to ask the committee to conduct an investigation that the group was not equipped to handle. What should be obvious is that the task of conducting extensive investigations of churches is an assignment far beyond the capability of our small Bylaws Workgroup, he said wrote. Beyond that fact, however, is the reality that neither the Bylaws Workgroup nor the Executive Committee has any investigation authority given to it by the SBC. OK, if true, the SBC should commission an independent investigation. Alford acknowledged the workgroup conducted no investigation into any of the allegations outlined in the newspapers investigation. He also clarified that the group did not clear any of the churches of wrongdoing before announcing an end to inquiries into their activities. The SBC cannot continue to use the autonomy policies that govern its 47,000 member churches and the lack of any central figure as an excuse for continuing to do nothing. The SBC has a sexual abuse crisis on its hands, and the victims in theses case deserve better. Just saying the right things is not enough. Action is needed. The UK shipped a record number of pig meat around the world last year, worth just under 490m, further demonstrating the importance of non-EU countries to pig meat trade. In 2018, the UK shipped a record total of 347,000 tonnes of pig meat, worth just under 490 million, around the globe 12,000 tonnes and over 19 million more than the previous year, marking a decade of sustained growth. UK pig meat exports have also got off to a flying start to 2019, fuelled by more than 16 million in shipments to non-EU destinations in January alone. The latest IHS Maritime & Trade figures show a rise of more than 40 per cent in the value of exports to countries outside the European bloc and close to 28 per cent in volume for January 2019, compared to January 2018. Trade to the EU remained fairly stable, with volume increasing by 0.36 per cent and value by three per cent to more than 24 million. Combined, this meant UK pig meat exports rose by nearly 11 per cent overall year-on-year to well over 28,000 tonnes, worth just under 41 million, up from 35 million in January 2018. Angela Christison, AHDB Pork Strategy Director, said: This is a fantastic start to the year and while the EU remains a significant and valued customer, this demonstrates the growing importance of non EU countries to pig meat trade. British pork is enjoyed in some 97 countries around the world now and the interest only seems to be growing. China was the UKs biggest buyer this January, taking 7,800 tonnes of pig meat, followed by Ireland, Germany and the Netherlands. Outside the EU, other top-ranking customers were Hong Kong, the USA and the Philippines. UK exports team, which carry out market access and development work overseas on behalf of the pig industry, was instrumental in opening Taiwan to UK pig meat last year, worth a potential 50 million over the next five years. 2020 was a year marked by hardships and challenges, but the Fauquier community has proven resilient. The Fauquier Times is honored to serve as your community companion. To say thank you for your continued support, wed like to offer all our subscribers -- new or returning -- 4 WEEKS FREE DIGITAL AND PRINT ACCESS. We understand the importance of working to keep our community strong and connected. As we move forward together into 2021, it will take commitment, communication, creativity, and a strong connection with those who are most affected by the stories we cover. We are dedicated to providing the reliable, local journalism you have come to expect. We are committed to serving you with renewed energy and growing resources. Let the Fauquier Times be your community companion throughout 2021, and for many years to come. The Fauquier Times is honored to serve as your community companion. To say thank you, we are excited to offer 4 weeks FREE Digital & Print access to all subscribers new and returning alike. We are dedicated to continuing providing reliable, high quality journalism. This is possible with the trust and support of our subscribers in the community we are proud to serve. Category Select Category Apparel/Garments Textiles Fashion Technical Textiles Information Technology E-commerce Retail Corporate Association Press Release SubCategory Select Sub-Category Tanushree Dutta Is A Lesbian, She Touched My Private Parts & Raped Me During the #MeToo movement, Rakhi Sawant lashed out at Tanushree Dutta by saying that she's a lesbian and was raped by her multiple times. "Tanushree Dutta is a lesbian, she touched my private parts, she raped me multiple times and she is a boy from inside." No Man Will Marry Me Because Tanushree Dutta Raped Me Rakhi Sawant said that she fears no man will marry her because Tanushree Dutta raped her. "I wanted to get married, but it looks like it won't be possible now. Tell me, which man will hold my hand after hearing all this? (rape allegations)". I Will Carry 100 KG Bombs To The Border & Fight Pakistan Alone After the Pulwama terror attacks, Rakhi Sawant was so furious against Pakistan that she said she'll go to the border all alone with 100 kg bombs and destroy Pakistan. "I can also die for the nation, I will willingly go to the rival's territory with 50-100 bombs and destroy them if needed." Ban Ceiling Fans To Stop Suicides While everyone mourned Balika Vadhu actor Pratyusha Banerjee's death, Rakhi Sawant requested PM Narendra Modi to ban celing fans to avoid suicides. "Banning ceiling fans is more important than chanting Bharat Mata ki Jai' because many daughters and daughters-in-law are committing suicide," she said. Rakhi Sawant On Showing Off Her Cleavage When asked why she shows her cleavage so much, Rakhi Sawant said, "I have spent too much money on my cleavage, toh dikhaungi na yaar? Kha maa kasam tujhe nahi dekhna." Rakhi Sawant On Sunny Leone Rakhi Sawant was all guns blazing against Sunny Leone when she entered Bollywood and said surreal things about her. "Haan main bhelpuri hu or Sunny Leone pasta hai. Pasta bahar se aata hai, artificial hota hai, pasta khane se pet kharab ho jata hai, mote ho jate hain, kitni bimaari ho jati hai. And bhel puri? So tasty, so teekhi, so chatpati." Kareena Kapoor Makes Even Gym Looks Fabulous Kareena Kapoor Khan is a diva for a reason; she can make even drab gym outfits look totally fabulous. On Saturday afternoon, Kareena was snapped as she headed for a work out session. She was sporting a white t-shirt with black gym tights and a pair of white sneakers. On the work front, Kareena will next be seen in Good News, which also stars Akshay Kumar, Diljit Dosanjh and Kiara Advani. Malaika Arora's Stylish Airport Look Malaika Arora is known to be a fashion icon in B-Town. She was snapped looking totally stylish at the airport on Saturday afternoon. Malaika wore a simple yet chic outfit in a black tank top with black denims. She layered this with a grey blazer. Her hair was tossed up in a low bun and she sported a snazzy pair of sunglasses. Taimur Flaunts His Spiky Hairdo The adorable baby of Bollywood, Taimur Ali Khan was snapped flaunting his new hairdo when he was snapped by the paparazzi today. Taimur was full of swag in his new spiked hair, sporting a formal look in a light blue shirt and denims with white sneakers. Kiara Advani Snapped At A Dance Studio Kiara Advani was at a dance studio on Saturday afternoon when she was spotted by the paparazzi. Kiara waved for the cameras when she was snapped, looking cool in a pink crop top with black tights and a hoodie tied around her waist. Kiara Advanii will next be seen on the big screen opposite Shahid Kapoor in Kabir Singh. Fatima Sana Shaikh Heads Out For Lunch Fatima Sana Shaikh headed out for lunch on Saturday afternoon and she was snapped by the paps. Fatima looked very pretty in a summery outfit, sporting a blue and white printed top with high rise black shorts. On the work front for Fatima, she will be seen in Anurag Basu's next which also stars Rajkummar Rao, Abhishek Bachchan, Aditya Roy Kapur and her Dangal co-star, Sanya Malhotra. Alia Is Over The Moon With Ranbir's Gift A source close to the lovebirds told Bollywood life that Ranbir has planned a magical holiday to Aspen Mountain Ski Resort in Colorado, USA for Alia. Apparently, the couple will fly to the holiday destination once Alia wraps the promotions of her upcoming film 'Kalank'. Is She Planning To Get Married To Ranbir Soon? To this, she had recently said, "I'm too young to think about it. When I feel there's a need to be in a stronger bond with him, we will come to it. But right now, I'm married to my work and I also have my relationship going well on the side." When Ranbir Opened Up About His Romance With Alia In an interview with HT, the Sanju actor had said, "I am in a happy, positive and beautiful phase of my life. But you can talk about your personal life only to a degree. Otherwise, it becomes the forerunner of your life and your work takes a back seat. There is always excitement to know about someone's personal life. But you want to give the relationship respect so that people don't malign it in a gossipy way. It is something beautiful, sacred and really important to you, so you want to deal with it in a nice manner." This Is What Ranbir Had Said About Being Perceived As A 'Cassanova' "You rightly called it a perception'. I'm not affected by it as long as it doesn't interfere with my work. I want people to like me not just as an actor, but as a person, too. Sometimes, things are reported correctly and sometimes they're not. I am not on social media and I don't believe in clarifications and in portraying myself in a certain way. Yes, I have made a lot of mistakes and have also done some good. But sometimes, mistakes are highlighted and not your goodness, but that's fine because it's part and parcel of show business." Erica On Rumours Of Her Cold War With Hina Erica was quoted by BT as saying, "I have no idea where that came up from in the first place. We have no issues whatsoever and have conversations between shots, too. In fact, we had a conversation about Switzerland just before I left for my trip." Pooja Banerjee on Erica & Hinas Cold War On the other hand, Erica and Hina's co-actor Pooja Banerjee too reacted on the rumours. She told Zoom TV, "No aisa kuch nahi hai.. Who said this? No... It's not at all like that. It's just that you know ki... evrybody takes time to gel with each other... you know. So, they both are different... you know... apne apne zone mei hain and they talk to each other, come on." The Actress Says "Maine toh khud unko kitni bar dekha hai baat karte hue. Toh kya hota hai na logo ko lagta hai ki arrey... you know... Instagram pe post nahi daal rahe ya phir bohot zada baat nahi kar rahe toh shayad unn logo ke beech mei ann bann hai. Aisa nahi hota hai. It's just that two people take time to gel with each other, that's it." I Dont Think That There Is An Issue "It is common that when two big actresses come together, there might be a few issues realted to set, screen space or scene. When asked whether it can be the reason why these speculations are at its peak, she said, "It's like quite a possibility. Mujhe bhi kabhi kabhi gussa aa jata hai kisi pe toh hum log bhi thodi der baat nahi karte and it is like that." Pooja Further Adds... "That I am not really aware but I don't think that there is an issue. Like, seriously, there is not an issue. They might be taking some time to gel with each other. That's what I think." Prabhas is set deliver a fabulous action entertainer in the form of Saaho, which ranks high in the expectations list. Directed by Sujeeth, the movie is a big-budget venture and it is shaping up as a pan-Indian film that is to be released in multiple languages. The social media is abuzz about the movie and fan made posters of the film have been ruling the roost both online and offline. Interestingly, the reports on social media suggests that one such poster of Saaho has reportedly being exhibited in Mumbai, among the list of upcoming movies. This particular poster has Prabhas in the shoes of Hollywood star Tom Cruise with the poster being an exact replica of the poster of Tom Cruise's previous film Oblivion. This new poster of Prabhas' Saaho has went viral on social media. The poster has been receiving praises and at the same time, it has also received backlashes for merely copying the theme of another poster. However, the makers of the film have not shared this poster of the movie, which has led everyone to believe that this is not an official poster. The works of Saaho is reportedly progressing and the makers are yet to make a final official announcement regarding the exact release date of the movie. With Prabhas, Saaho also features Shradha Kapoor, Arun Vijay, Jackie Shroff, Lal etc., in important roles. (Source: Cinejosh) Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 15, 2019) - Lifestyle Delivery Systems Inc. (CSE: LDS) (OTCQX: LDSYF) (FSE: LD6) (WKN: A14XHT) ("LDS" or the "Company") announces that effective as of March 15, 2019, Arni Johannson resigned from the board of directors of the Company, a position he held since January 2018. Mr. Johannson's resignation was amicable and resulted from a need to prevent a possible conflict of interest following Mr. Johannson's appointment as President of another company within the cannabis industry. The Company expresses its appreciation to Mr. Johannson for his past services and wishes him success in his future endeavours. The vacancy created by Mr. Johannson's resignation has not been filled. The Company expects to appoint a new director at the Annual General Meeting scheduled for April 25, 2019. About Lifestyle Delivery Systems Inc. Lifestyle Delivery Systems Inc. is a technology company that licenses its technology to a state-of-the-art production and packaging facility located in Southern California. The Company's technology produces infused strips (similar to breath strips) that are not only a safer, healthier option to any other form of delivery but also allows for inclusion of a wide spectrum of ingredients from over the counter medications to homeopathic, nutraceutical, vitamins and supplements. The technology provides a new way to accurately meter the dosage and assure the purity of selected product. From start to finish, the production process, based on the Company's technology, tests for quality and composition of all the ingredients used in each and every strip which results in a delivery system that is safe, consistent and effective. On behalf of the board of directors of Lifestyle Delivery Systems Inc. Brad Eckenweiler CEO & Director FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: investor.relations@lifestyledeliverysystem.com 1-866-347-5058 Cautionary Disclaimer Statement: The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the content of this news release. Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to the Company's limited operating history and the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations. In addition, marijuana remains a Schedule I drug under the United States Controlled Substances Act of 1970. Although Congress has prohibited the US Justice Department from spending federal funds to interfere with the implementation of state medical marijuana laws, this prohibition must be renewed each year to remain in effect. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/43463 By Richard Lough and Aaron Maasho PARIS/ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) - The grounding of Boeing's 737 MAX jets after the crash in Ethiopia has had no immediate financial impact on airlines using the planes, but it will get painful for the industry the longer they do not fly, companies and analysts said on Friday. Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crashed soon after take-off from Addis Ababa last weekend, killing 157 people, the second such calamity involving Boeing's flagship new model after a jet came down off Indonesia in October with 189 people on board. Investigators in France on Friday examined the black boxes of the jet that crashed in Ethiopia as the global airline industry waited to see if the cause was similar to a disaster in Indonesia months before By Richard Lough and Aaron Maasho PARIS/ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) - The grounding of Boeing's 737 MAX jets after the crash in Ethiopia has had no immediate financial impact on airlines using the planes, but it will get painful for the industry the longer they do not fly, companies and analysts said on Friday. Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crashed soon after take-off from Addis Ababa last weekend, killing 157 people, the second such calamity involving Boeing's flagship new model after a jet came down off Indonesia in October with 189 people on board. Investigators in France on Friday examined the black boxes of the jet that crashed in Ethiopia as the global airline industry waited to see if the cause was similar to a disaster in Indonesia months before. Regulators have grounded the 737 MAX around the world, and the U.S. planemaker has halted deliveries of the several thousand planes on order for a model intended to be the future industry workhorse. Air Canada and United Airlines on Friday became the first major carriers in North America to warn of negative financial implications to business as a consequence of the grounding of the Boeing planes. Canada's biggest carrier Air Canada suspended its 2019 financial forecasts, while United Airlines, the No. 3 U.S. carrier, said it would see an adverse effect on its operations if the jets remained grounded heading into the peak summer travel season. U.S. bank Citi said it expected the grounding to eat into the profits of Southwest Airlines, which operates the world's biggest 737 MAX fleet, leaving the carrier facing a plane shortage and likely passenger compensation costs. For airlines that over-ordered the 737 MAX, the grounding could provide an excuse to delay or cancel purchases, analysts said, though others are scrambling to adjust business plans that bet heavily on the fuel-efficient, longer-range jets. In the two crashes, pilots asked to return minutes into flight. "It looks like the Lion Air, because the flight only lasted for six minutes," Ethiopian Airlines Chief Executive Tewolde Gebremariam told state Chinese state news agency Xinhua on Friday. "There is clear similarity between our crash and the Lion Air crash." Reuters was not able to reach Gebremariam for comment. A link between the two accidents makes blame more likely to lie with Boeing and less likely with the airline. Parallels between the twin disasters have frightened travellers worldwide and wiped billions of dollars off Boeing stock. U.S. authorities say information from the wreckage in Ethiopia and data on its flight path show some similarities. Two sources said investigators retrieved a piece of a stabiliser, which moves the nose up and down, set in an unusual position - similar to that of the Lion Air plane that crashed in Indonesia. Pilots were waiting anxiously for results of the investigation. "Looking at the crash site photos, the aircraft appears to have nose-dived," Paul Gichinga, former head of the Kenya Airline Pilots Association, told Reuters. "The pilot must have gotten some sort of indication that maybe the airspeed was unreliable or something and decided, instead of climbing and going to sort out the problem up there, the best thing was to return to have it sorted." U.S. President Donald Trump spoke by telephone on Friday with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed about the crash, according to the White House. "The president reiterated his sorrow over the loss of life and underscored America's commitment to work with the government of Ethiopia a longstanding partner and friend of the United States and international civil aviation authorities to determine the cause of the crash," the White House said in a statement. BOEING PLANS NEW SOFTWARE Boeing, the world's biggest planemaker, has said the 737 MAX is safe, though it plans to roll out a software upgrade in coming weeks. Despite pausing shipments, it continued to produce at full speed at its factory near Seattle. French authorities have the flight data and cockpit voice recorders, though Ethiopia is formally leading the investigation and U.S. experts are in Paris and Addis Ababa too. First conclusions could take several days. The New York Times said the captain, Yared Getachew, initially reported a "flight control" problem in a calm voice before asking to return in panicked tones three minutes into the flight. "Break break, request back to home," he told controllers, the newspaper reported. The jet initially flew below the minimum safe height for its climb, then once at higher altitude was oscillating up and down by hundreds of feet, all at abnormally fast speed, the Times said. It then disappeared from radar over a military zone and lost contact with controllers five minutes after take-off. In Ethiopia, relatives have been visiting the charred and debris-strewn field to pay last respects. The victims came from 35 nations. Diplomats fear trucks and excavators at the site could be destroying vital evidence, while some policemen have been taking selfies inside the security cordon. FAMILIES 'STUCK AND EMOTIONAL' Israeli Ilan Matsliah came quickly to Ethiopia thinking it would be quick to find the remains of his brother for burial in accordance with Jewish tradition. "More than 24 hours is a problem for us. But I have been here for more than 96 hours," the 46-year-old told Reuters. "We are now stuck in the same place, the same as Monday. We are very emotional." With heightened global scrutiny, the head of Indonesia's transport safety committee said a report into the Lion Air crash would be speeded up for release in July or August. A preliminary report focussed on maintenance, training and an anti-stall system. Elsewhere, a potential new Chinese order for more than 100 jets worth well over $10 billion was put in doubt. Legal experts said even non-U.S. families of the Ethiopia victims may be able to sue Chicago-based Boeing in the United States - where payouts are larger - as eight of the dead were American and plaintiffs may argue liability hinges on system design and safety decisions made by executives. (Reporting by Richard Lough, Tim Hepher in Paris; Duncan Miriri and Aaron Masho in Addis Ababa; Omar Mohammed, Katharine Houreld and Maggie Fick in Nairobi; David Shephardson and Jeff Mason in Washington; Tracy Rucinski in Chicago; Eric M. Johnson in Seattle, Rishika Chatterjee, Rachit Vats, Savio D'Souza and Debroop Roy in Bengaluru; Jamie Freed in Singapore; Josephine Mason in London; Writing by Andrew Cawthorne and Ben Klayman;Editing by Angus MacSwan, Nick Zieminski and Tom Brown) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. Inactive crew members are employees of Air India who are on any kind of leave be it casual, medical or privilege New Delhi: National carrier Air India on Friday requested its "inactive" crew members to "immediately" join work at a time when the airline has been forced to cancel and reroute a number of US and Europe-bound flights due to closure of Pakistan airspace since 27 February. "I would like to assure you that there will be dramatic improvement in the situation in a few weeks, however, today, on behalf of the chairman I would like to earnestly appeal to all cabin crew to immediately rally behind the company in this hour of crisis," said Executive Director of Air India Madhu Mathen in a letter on Friday. Stating that the crisis has been precipitated by the closure of Pakistan's airspace and resultant reroutings and stopovers, Mathen said Air India's chairman and managing director Ashwani Lohani "has requested all inactive crew to report for duty today itself". Inactive crew members are employees who are on any kind of leave be it casual, medical or privilege. "Those who are on sanctioned leave must also try to voluntarily report for duty. Looking forward to your positive response," he said. As Pakistan keeps its airspace closed since the Indian Air Force strikes on a terrorist camp in Balakot on 26 February, the operating cost for Air India, which flies to destinations in Europe and the US, has increased significantly as it has to take longer routes. For instance, the Delhi-Washington and Delhi-Chicago flights of the national carrier are currently making a stop at Mumbai and Vienna for refuelling and change of crew. Air India on Thursday announced it would combine the Mumbai-New York flight with its Mumbai-Newark flight from 16 March 16 to 31 May. On Wednesday, the airline had announced the suspension of flights on the Delhi-Madrid and Delhi-Birmingham routes from March 16 "till further notice" due to "operational reasons". In his letter, Mathen said that the national carrier "had to cancel or reschedule many flights for want of cabin crew causing severe hardship to passengers and heavy losses for the airline". "The management is aware of the extraordinary burden that many of you are already bearing in terms of workload," Mathan said, while adding that the company has taken steps on a war footing to augment the cabin crew strength. He added that "all other commitments and compulsions must be set aside and every member of the cabin crew must support the airline by making themselves available for duty". Boeing in the next 10 days will roll out an upgrade to the MCAS stall prevention system for 737 MAX aircraft New York: Boeing in the next 10 days will roll out an upgrade to the MCAS stall prevention system for 737 MAX aircraft that have had two deadly accidents in recent months, two industry sources told AFP. The system was implicated in the crash of a 737 MAX 8 in Indonesia in October but the sources cautioned that the cause of the fatal Ethiopia Airlines accident last weekend has not yet been determined. The software fix, which was already underway prior to the latest incident, will only take about two hours to install, said the sources, who asked not to be identified. The MAX aircraft have been grounded worldwide in the wake of Sunday's crash near Addis Ababa that killed 157 passengers and crew, and Boeing has halted deliveries of its top-selling model. The black boxes from the Ethiopian aircraft, which was only a few months old and crashed a few minutes after takeoff, are being analyzed by the French authorities to try to determine the cause of the accident. The Lion Air 737 MAX 8 crashed last October also just minutes after takeoff, killing 189 people. The initial investigation indicated it was due to a malfunction on the stall prevention system, a new feature on the MAX planes. Several American pilots also reported issues with the MCAS and the Federal Aviation Administration said it ordered Boeing to issue a fix by April. The aerospace giant held a conference call on Thursday with at least three carriers using the 737 MAX and gave them the fix, one source said, and the other airlines will get it early next week. Contacted by AFP, Boeing declined to comment. Boeing would like to start installing the patch in about 10 days, both sources said. However, there is a question of logistics involving where the planes go for the installation. American Airlines, which operates two dozen 737 MAX 8 aircraft, has chosen to update the software itself, one source told AFP. Neither source was able to specify the cost of the upgrade, but one analyst estimated it would cost about $2 million for each plane for a total of less than $1 billion for the 371 planes in use currently. By Brenda Goh and Pei Li BEIJING/SHANGHAI (Reuters) - China on Friday accused a raft of local firms, from snack makers to a financial tech firm applying for a U.S. By Brenda Goh and Pei Li BEIJING/SHANGHAI (Reuters) - China on Friday accused a raft of local firms, from snack makers to a financial tech firm applying for a U.S. listing, of fooling and harassing consumers in an annual event that for the first time in years did not name and shame any foreign or well-known local brands. The state-run China Central Television (CCTV) annual consumer rights show is usually greeted with trepidation by local and international brands that have, in recent years, set up public relations teams in advance or handed out freebies around the day to take the edge off any possible criticism. Known as "315", in reference to global consumer rights day on March 15, the show this year did not put any household names under the spotlight. Brands it has skewered in the past include Apple and Nike Inc. Instead, through a series of undercover reports in a format similar to CBS network's "60 Minutes" in the United States, it highlighted issues such as how some Chinese factories were turning medical waste such as plastic syringes into toys and bags, and the health risks from smoking e-cigarettes. It also focused on consumer privacy issues, showing how some firms were using machines to make up to 5,000 nuisance calls a day and accused financial technology firm Samoyed Holding, which filed for a U.S. initial public offering last year, of collecting personal information without consumers' knowledge. Samoyed said in a statement posted on its Twitter-like Weibo account that it had opened an investigation into the matter. Other companies CCTV focused on included ones that it alleged made spicy snacks popular with Chinese children in unsanitary conditions, prompting online retailers such as Alibaba Group's Taobao and JD.com Inc to immediately remove products made by the accused brands. It is unclear whether the show has made an impact on company sales, but past shows have drawn apologies from Volkswagen, whose engine defects in the Touareg SUV it criticised last year, as well as from Apple, whose China after-sales service it scrutinised in 2013. Its approach this year garnered criticism on Chinese social media, where commentators said they were disappointed by its failure to expose any big state or private companies. "There's little meaning because they only hammered small fry who don't really offend anyone," said one Weibo user. Beijing has pledged to improve its protection of consumer rights and the country's market regulator on Thursday said it received more than 3.7 million complaints and recovered 3.1 billion yuan in damages for consumers in 2018. In 2016 it did not highlight any international brands but criticized well-known Chinese names such as Taobao and food delivery service Ele.me. (Reporting by Brenda Goh and Pei Li, additional Reporting by Josh Horwitz; Editing by Himani Sarkar and Emelia Sithole-Matarise) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. On 25 January, IndiGo, announced it would operate daily non-stop planes between Delhi and Istanbul from 20 March New Delhi: As Pakistan airspace continues to remain closed since 27 February in the wake of the Indian Air Force (IAF) air strike in Balakot, IndiGo's Delhi-Istanbul plane may have to take a stop at Doha on its inaugural flight on 20 March. "The flights on Delhi-Istanbul-Delhi route will be through Doha in Qatar if Pakistan does not open its airspace by 20 March," said a senior airline official. On 25 January, IndiGo, India's largest carrier in terms of domestic market share, announced it would operate daily non-stop planes between Delhi and Istanbul from March 20, with A321 aircraft. IndiGo would be the first Indian airline to fly to Turkey, and Istanbul would be the 16th international destination for the budget carrier. As Pakistan keeps its airspace closed since the Indian Air Force strikes on a terrorist camp in Balakot, on February 26, the operating cost for Air India, which flies to destinations in Europe and the US, have increased significantly as it has to take longer routes. Air India on Thursday announced it would combine the Mumbai-New York flight with its Mumbai-Newark flight from 16 March to 31 May. On Wednesday, it had announced it is suspending its flights on the Delhi-Madrid and Delhi-Birmingham routes from 16 March "till further notice" due to "operational reasons". The warrant against Nirav Modi's wife, Ami was issued by Special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) Judge M S Azmi after he took cognisance of the supplementary charge sheet filed by the ED against Nirav Modi (48) and other accused a few days ago Mumbai: A special court here on Friday issued a non-bailable warrant (NBW) against the wife of fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi, a key accused in the $2 billion Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case. The warrant against Ami Modi was issued by Special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) Judge M S Azmi after he took cognisance of the supplementary charge sheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against Nirav Modi (48) and other accused a few days ago. The financial crime probe agency has alleged that Ami Modi used an international bank account to move $30 million, suspected to be proceeds of the scam. The funds were used to buy property located in New York's Central Park, the ED has said. In its supplementary chargesheet, the agency has recorded additional evidences gathered in the case and attachments made. It is understood that the ED has underlined the role of Ami Modi and funds routed by her in the supplementary chargesheet. The ED had filed the first chargesheet in this case in May last year. According to investigating agencies, Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi, in connivance with certain bank officials, allegedly cheated PNB to the tune of Rs 14,000 crore through issuance of fraudulent Letters of Undertaking (LoUs). These LoU were allegedly issued in a fraudulent manner by a Mumbai branch of the PNB to the group of companies belonging to Nirav Modi since March 2011 till the fraud came to light in January 2018, the agencies have said. Nirav Modi, Choksi and other accused are facing charges under the PMLA Act and the Indian Penal Code in the fraud case which is being probed by multiple agencies, including the ED. According to a UK media report last week, Nirav Modi is currently living in a three-bedroom flat occupying half of a floor of the landmark Centre Point tower block in London, where rent is estimated to cost 17,000 pounds a month. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is expected to attend the May 6-7 Arctic Council meeting in Finland in a show of Washington's commitment to the region amid growing U.S. concern about China's interests there, a senior U.S. official said on Friday. Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden and the United States are members of the Council, which coordinates Arctic policy and is gaining clout as sea ice thaws to open up new trade routes and intensify competition for its oil, gas and mineral resources. Asked if Pompeo was expected to attend the May gathering in Rovaniemi, Finland, the senior Trump administration official said: "We do ... unless he gets pulled off to one of his many other issues." "We want to show that we are committed to being an Arctic nation, an Arctic power," the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told a small group of reporters. "Chinese action has really focussed everyone's minds, including the Russians." China became an observer member of the Arctic Council in 2013 and last year it outlined its ambitions to extend President Xi Jinpings signature Belt and Road Initiative to the Arctic by developing shipping lanes opened up by global warming. Asked if Pompeo would attend the meeting, a State Department spokesman said he had no travel to announce. (Reporting by Arshad Mohammed; Editing by Tom Brown) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. Rachna Doshi, married to Mumbai industrialist and diamantaire Vishal Doshi of Shrenuj and Co, found herself embroiled in a house arrest situation with no food, no access to outsiders and separated from her children. Editor's note: This article was originally published on 16 March. It is being updated to include respondent Vishal Doshi's rejoinder to Firstpost. On 12 March, the Bombay High Court ruled in favour of a woman who was allegedly confined to her matrimonial home for almost a week with no food, no access to outsiders, had her SIM card blocked and was separated from her children. The order was passed in response to a Habeas Corpus writ petition filed by the woman's cousin. The petition was filed on 7 March and the court took cognisance of it on the next day International Women's Day 8 March. The high court passed the order on 12 March. Rachna Doshi, married to industrialist and diamantaire Vishal Doshi of Shrenuj and Co, is a Belgian citizen and is an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI); her parents live in Antwerp in Belgium. Rachna married Vishal in 2003 and became parents of two children: Aman (born in 2010) and Aria (born in 2014). In 2016, Vishal and his firm Shrenuj and Co were found guilty of racketeering and were charged with defaulting and diversion of funds. According to a report by Live Mint, Bank of India approached the bankruptcy court stating Shrenuj and Co owed them Rs 226 crore. In addition, 17 lenders gave the century-old company among the first diamond houses that went public in 1989 Rs 1,113 crore. Over the years, seeing her husband involved in criminal and fraudulent activities, Rachna felt concern for her and her children's future, as per the filed in the Bombay High Court. Her concern and unease regarding the type of business Vishal and his family were in led to marital discord, as per the petition. "Rachna was reminded that she was married into the Doshi family and that they would expect her to put up with whatever they did, demanded and treated her badly if she wanted to be with the children," as per the petition. This continued till 2018 until their families intervened and both Vishal and Rachna signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 8 September, 2018, as per the petition. On 17 October, it was reported that ICICI Bank's New York branch filed a lawsuit against Shrenuj and Co accusing them of defaulting $12 million under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization (RICO) Act. The situation turned grave when on 1 March, 2019, when Rachna's children left their home with Vishal on a tour to Tadoba National Park for a five-day trip. Rachna also went out with her friends for a weekend getaway. While returning from her trip, she received a message from Vishal stating that the latter had filed a petition for divorce and that he is suing for custody of their children. Upon returning to her house (at a building named Neelamber in Mumbai's posh Dr Gopalrao Deshmukh Marg), on 3 March, the petition stated that "Rachna was locked out of her shared/ matrimonial home and could only re-enter her shared/ matrimonial home with the assistance of the police. Now that Rachna managed to re-enter her own shared/matrimonial home on Sunday 3 March, 2019, where she has now been confined to it with private security guards stationed outside the main door preventing ingress and egress to her and her family member who comes to see her, any food deliveries, medical professionals etc. whilst denying her basic essentials at the shared/ matrimonial home." When Rachna tried to call Vishal multiple times and send text messages to know whereabouts of her children, there was no reply. On 4 March, she called the lodge resort where Vishal, the two children and some of Vishal's friends were supposed to be staying in Tadoba. The hotel authorities said they'd checked out a day earlier and had no idea where they were. The next day, Vishal replied to her text message saying the children were fine, but didn't divulge any details of their whereabouts, according to the petition. "Given the tender age of Aman and Aria, the early check out from Tadoba, the absence of information about this location and conditions, the attempts to throw her out of the shared/ matrimonial home, the various criminal cases against Respondent No 3-5 [Vishal Doshi, the father-in-law, the mother-in-law respectively] in India and overseas cumulatively left her completely distraught and she feared for the life and safety of her minor children and her own," the petition added. It also stated that when Rachna sought a blood test she was suffering from thyroid and anaemia the pathologists weren't allowed to enter the house. Rachna had to give blood samples at the door in front of the private security/ bouncers. Rachna's cousin Sohil Premkumar Kothari, who tried to get in touch with her and was denied access, finally considered legal proceeding to be the only recourse. On 7 March, a writ petition of Habeas Corpus was filed before the high court. In the petition, Sohil apprehended that Rachna's in-laws "may unilaterally send the children abroad with a mala fide intention to deprive Rachna of accessing and looking after them... this unilateral separation from the mother will cause an immeasurable and irreparable lifelong trauma to them which may show itself in different ways." The court on 12 March directed the Doshi family to provide uninhibited access to Rachna in her matrimonial home and that she should also be provided with a set of keys of the house. The order stated: "...we direct the respondent Nos 4 [father-in-law] and 5 [in-laws] to hand over a copy of key of the main entrance to the respondent No 9 [Rachna] by this evening [12 March] in order to enable her entry and exit from the house as per her need." As far as the custody of the children is concerned, the high court doesn't have the jurisdiction to grant it. A family court was approached to decide on this, and it has directed Rachna to maintain status quo. The Gamdevi Police Station was directed to provide assistance to Rachna in case she finds difficulty in sorting any of these above directions. The order stated: "We also note herein that in the event respondent No.9 faces any difficulty, she may contact the local police station, who shall provide her necessary assistance to ensure the compliance of our directions. Respondents Nos 4 to 5 have the liberty to approach the local Gamdevi Police Station if any unwarranted situation arises. However, we hope and trust that the parties concerned being directly related to each other as father-in-law, mother-in-law as well as daughter-in-law, they should respect each other's dignity and ensure that no difficulty is caused to the right of residence of the respondent No 9 till the matter is adjudicated by the competent family court." Vishal Doshi responds: I refer to the article titled Bombay HC rules in favour of woman confined to home for week by in-laws, separated from her children published on your website on 16th March 2019. The article published on your portal is a cause of deep anguish for me as it presents unsubstantiated defamatory information. The article is also oblivious of its impact on young children who have been unethically named. The real facts are that the divorce and custody petition between Ms. Rachna Kothari and me has been filed by ME, Vishal Doshi. The petition is pending for adjudication, meaning legal procedure, in the family court. The interim custody of the children has been granted to me by orders passed by the Hon Family Court and Hon High Court. Therefore the headline is grossly misleading as the kids residing with their father is perfectly in line with the order of both courts and does not sermount to being taken away. Personal differences beyond reconciliation have been caused due to illicit acts of adultery by Ms. Rachna Kothari, leading to this petition. The intolerable conditions created by Ms. Rachna Kothari for me and my family have led to invoking of judicial intervention by me and this was duly communicated to Ms. Rachna Kothari. While the petition is pending at the family court, Ms. Rachna Kothari has decided to stay at her parents in law and grandparents in law's house , with full freedom and access to her aides. She has been meeting her maiden family and lawyers without any interference. She has been provided free access to all amenities in the house and there was no case of confinement, as alleged in the article. This case was also disposed off by the Hon. High Court without any charge. The article published by you has been intentionally planted to publicise a family matter with an intent to defame a respectable family. While the Doshi family is facing certain legal issues with some of the lending banks, this personal issue is independent of any corporate action of Mr. Vishal Doshi. Your claim that I have been found guilty of racketeering is without any base. No court has passed a verdict to this effect anywhere in the world. A mere allegation, as made in the referenced article in Livemint, does not confirm any wrongdoing and your reporter has twisted the facts to suit his/her convenience in making the news saleable. The claim by Ms Rachna Kothari in your article that I was involved in criminal and fraudulent activities will have to stand the scrutiny of the court as these are mere allegations without substance and no court anywhere in the world has passed an order to that effect. However this sudden realization leading her to enter into illicit acts of adultery raises serious questions. The sole purpose of her stating these details to you and the Honble Court was to blemish our reputation so that we would succumb under pressure to her obnoxious extortionist demands. It was your bounden duty to verify the facts and speak to us prior to publishing anything. I stand by our full faith in judiciary while Ms Rachna Kothari is attempting to create a media trial to mis influence the opinion and blemish our reputation. Vishal Doshi The family of Farhaj Ahsan, an Indian national from Ahmedabad who is reported missing after the New Zealand terrorist attack, is left distressed and confused as they scramble for an urgent visa and some update on Ahsan's whereabouts. Hyderabad: The family of Farhaj Ahsan, an Indian national from Hyderabad who is reported missing after the New Zealand terrorist attack, is left distressed and confused as they scramble for an urgent visa and some update on Ahsan's whereabouts. An MS graduate from the University of Auckland at New Zealand, Ahsan was reportedly present at one of the two mosques where 49 people were killed in a shooting attack on Friday. The 31-year-old engineer was living in New Zealand's Christchurch with his wife, three-year-old daughter and a 6-month-old son. Apart from him, nine other Indians are presumed missing after the suspected shooter, a self-proclaimed white supremacist, opened fire in at least two mosques in Christchurch. Farhaj hails from Tolichowki in Hyderabad. He migrated to New Zealand after completing his BTech in India 4 years ago. He has been looking for employment after completing his MS from New Zealand. However, he did not have any stable employment and was surviving on temporary jobs that he came across. Farhaj's father and other family members are devastated by the news and they refused to interact with the media, even as journalists thronged outside their Hyderabad residence. The family requested the media to leave the premises, telling them that Mohammed Sayeeduddin, Farhaj's father, is not in a situation to talk to anyone. But Farhaj's brother told the reporters that they are in the process of applying for a visa to New Zealand. They are yet to be contacted by Sushma Swaraj or anybody from Ministry of External Affairs. They are only in touch with Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi. The family says they have not received any update about Farhaj's whereabouts from any sources; the only bit of information they have is that he is declared missing. His brother told the reporters that the family has been informed that New Zealand will release a list of injured people by Sunday. The family hopes that this list might give them some clue as to what happened to Farhaj. Meanwhile, the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen leader confirmed that Farhaj was one of the missing Indians in a tweet on Friday evening, "Farhaj Ahsan, a person of Indian origin, was also reported to have gone to the same mosque and is currently missing. His family is in Hyderabad. I request immediate assistance for his family as well. His family's contact details are available with me and I'll share the same with you" along with a photo of Farhaj. Owaisi confirmed that another Indian national from Hyderabad, Ahmed Jehangir was also shot at and is in a critical condition. He requested assistance for the family and a visa for Jehangir's brother Khursheed, tagging Minister of External Affairs, Sushma Swaraj in the tweet. At 9.40 PM on Friday, Owaisi tweeted: "UPDATE: I'd like to thank @SushmaSwaraj for personally updating me about MEA's efforts in assisting Ahmeds & Ahsans families reach NZ in time. We are in touch with @MEAIndiaMEA & they have assured us that theyre making all efforts to get the visa process expedited." The modus operandi of the sand mining mafia in Madhya Pradesh resembles a Bollywood action flick: the police is busy scanning roads in siren-blaring jeeps while the smugglers escape unchallenged over water. Bhopal: The modus operandi of the sand mining mafia in Madhya Pradesh resembles a Bollywood action flick: The police is busy scanning roads in siren-blaring jeeps while the smugglers escape unchallenged over water. In a new trend that is visible on the banks of the Narmada river, the largest in the state, the sand mafia is using jetties and boats to not just extract sand, but also transport it across districts. The new water transport route has become a convenient alternative to road transport that is often dangerous and expensive. In the illegal sand mining industry, poor workers risk their lives every day. Short of safety equipment, all they possess is the experience gathered over the years. The stretch of the Narmada river passing through Dhar, Harda, Dewas, Sehore, and Narsinghpur district is witness to this new method that is far away from any policing or gang conflict. The mining continues day and night: Jetties assist the sand mining activity in the middle of the water body. After extraction, the sand is then pumped into the boat and transported to collection centres. Police unquipped for a river chase At these collection spots, which may even be inter-district borders, tractors ferry the sand to godowns, markets or even directly to construction sites. In case the authorities spot them, they divert the boat towards the other side of the river. Police cant give chase because they neither have the boats nor the training to handle the turbulent waters of the Narmada. A visit to the Narmada bank in Harda district in the wee hours revealed the mining process. After choosing the spot, labourers lower the pump for extraction. Those who cannot afford the pump, do it manually and rely on their swimming skills. Usually, a single boat consists of five labourers who take around three hours to fill the boat. Each labourer makes about Rs 700 a day. The Harda district administration led by Collector S Vishwanathan formed special teams to check the illegal sand mining in the district last month, but all they could do was to put nakas (checkposts) on major roads. A few dozen trucks laden with sand were even seized, but the extraction did not stop. Huge heaps of sand are still visible for kilometres in the areas of Khedinima and Manoharpur. The seized sand creates another problem for the administration as they dont have space to store it and also creates a traffic snarl. The inaction of successive governments Both the Congress and the BJP have seemingly buried their heads. The Congress accused the BJP of inaction during its 15 years of rule between 2003 and 2018. But the Congress, after returning to power in the state, also seems to be struggling to cope with this problem. Recently, in Chhatarpur district, from where the Narmada river also passes, a former BJP MLA and a sitting Congress MLA locked horns over their followers purportedly indulging in sand mining. In a report tabled before the Assembly last month, the state government admitted that over 200 complaints of illegal mining in the Narmada river were registered during the past five years. However, the action was limited only to seizing of vehicles. In Jabalpur district, 123 complaints were registered, but only one vehicle was seized in between 2014 and 2018. The Assembly document also revealed that in many cases, a penalty was imposed on violators under the provisions of the Mining Act, but it could not be recovered. In Narsinghpur district, a mining contractor found violating mining limits was fined about Rs 50 lakh, but not a penny was recovered. Similar penalties amounting to Rs 3.5 crore have not been recovered from violators. Most cases have been pending before the district magistrate for years. A total of 42,152 cases of illegal mining for major and minor minerals were registered in the state from 2009 to 2015. Journalists and officers have been killed while trying to curb it. In the last incident, which took place in September 2017, deputy forest ranger Subedar Singh Kushwaha was crushed to death in Bhind district while trying to stop a truck laden with illegal sand. Environmental activist Vinayak Parihar said, Illegal mining cannot happen without political patronage. In my hometown of Narsinghpur, the situation is similar. Earlier, it was the BJP and now after the Congress has come to power, both are fighting over illegal mining in the Narmada. State mining resources minister Pradip Jaiswal blamed the erstwhile BJP government. We are coming up with a new mining policy after Lok Sabha elections that will put an end to it, he promised. The author is Bhopal-based freelance writer and a member of 101Reporters.com As the 2019 Lok Sabha election looms, the people of Sewar and neighbouring 60 villages in Rajasthan are threatening to boycott the polls. Editor's Note: A network of 60 reporters set off across India to test the idea of development as it is experienced on the ground. Their brief: Use your mobile phone to record the impact of 120 key policy decisions on everyday life; what works, what doesn't and why; what can be done better and what should be done differently. Their findings straight and raw from the ground will be combined in this series, Elections on the Go, over a course of 100 days. Read more articles from the series here *** Dholpur: Rajni Devi, who had moved to Sewar village on the banks of the Chambal river in Rajasthans Dholpur district as a shy 18-year old bride on 21 April, 2007, was a happy mother of two girls and pregnant with her third child. When she developed labour pains on 23 September, 2013, there was no vehicle in the village to take her to the nearest hospital in Bari, about 40 kilometres away. The rains had swollen the waters of the Chambal river, so crossing over by boat to be taken to Kailaras town in Madhya Pradesh, just 20 kilometres from Sewar, was not an option. A tractor was finally arranged, but by then, it was too late for Rajni. She died on the way to the hospital. This was a senseless tragedy that could have been averted had the Sewar-Pali bridge spanning the river not been lying half-completed for nearly 30 years. Nine Lok Sabha elections and seven Assembly elections have happened since the construction of the bridge began in 1988. But not one MP or MLA from the district, which is the home district of two-time former chief minister Vasundhara Raje, bothered to complete this bridge, which would have provided a lifeline to about one lakh people in over 60 villages in the region. It is also interesting to note that three-term MLA from the Bari Assembly seat, Girraj Singh Malinga is a resident of this Sewar village. "If the bridge had been completed, perhaps my daughter-in-law would be alive today, said Bhanwar Bai, 55, Rajnis mother-in-law. Rajni's husband, Bhagwan Singh (33), pointed out, "If there had been a bridge, Rajni could have been admitted at a Kailaras hospital. Whenever a woman in the village has to undergo delivery, we have no other option but to take her to the hospital in a tractor or some other vehicle." No major engineering feat was needed for this 682-metre-long, seven-metre wide bridge. Just 250 metres was completed before heavy rains and interdepartmental intrigues in the public works department stopped the bridge construction. What would have cost just Rs 4.5 crore in 1988 will now cost Rs 80 crore to complete. Sewar-Pali village, 250 kilometres from Jaipur is just a few kilometres across the river from towns like Kailaras, Chinnoni and Sawalgarh in Madhya Pradesh, which are also the main markets for its produce. The bridge was approved in 1986 under the Dacoit Affected Area Scheme and Rajasthan State Bridge Construction Corporation (RSBCC) began construction in 1988. Out of 12 pillars provided in the plan, six were to be in Rajasthan, two in the Chambal river itself and four on the Madhya Pradesh side. Only the six pillars in Rajasthan could be completed in the next eight years. Subsequently, heavy floods in 1996 raised the water level by 3.3 metres above what the blueprints envisaged, forcing a halt to the construction work. The engineers then decided to increase the distance between pillar number 9 and 10 from 105 meters as was planned earlier to 135 meters. This led to the states Anti-Corruption Bureau charging 15 officials and employees of the Public Works Department (PWD) with financial irregularities. The ACB seized all records pertaining to the bridge. The case is still pending, while nine of the 15 accused officials have died. Work on the bridge, on which Rs 7.5 crore had already been spent, has languished since. Some efforts were made to resume work and new tenders were floated, but they found no takers. In July 2008, responsibility for completing the bridge was given to the Rajasthan State Road Development and Construction Corporation (RSRDC) who are yet restart the construction work, even though the PWD in 2018 decided that work can resume from the existing portion of the bridge. Without the bridge, villagers have no option but to use boats to cross the river, which is at times turbulent. More than 15 boats have sunk and 30-40 people killed in the past 30 years, say villagers. Hundreds of people cross the river in boats every day, with each boat doing 50 round trips daily. The boats also ferry livestock like sheep and goats, besides two-wheelers. Given the condition of the boats, the danger of them capsizing is ever present. Going by road means a much longer trip of 150 kilometres. "There is no vehicle in the village, and one has to travel to Madhya Pradesh to even get the daily ration, said Anup Singh, a boat owner and operator. Though the bridge is lying incomplete since 1996, both Vasundhara Raje and Ashok Gehlot have ignored the issue. If a sick person or pregnant woman has to go to Madhya Pradesh, the boat is the only option. No one pays heed to the problems of the poor." The village has no bus service either, so people are dependent on tractors or other private vehicles, for which they often have to pay a high price. No ambulance has ever visited the village. The bridge will connect lakhs of people on both sides of the river, making it easy for the people in villages in Rajasthan like Budawali, Babupura, Pali, Kharer, Sone Ka Gurja, Badapura, Karua, Sewar, Sarmathura and others to interact more, economically and socially, with villages in Madhya Pradesh like Gunapura, Bijjgadhi, Husainpura, Chinnoni, Bared, Kailaras, Dhengipura, Rajoda and Morena. If the bridge gets built, Sewar village will have its own market and would see a lot of development, explained Ramswaroop. Added Dharmendra, who runs a grocery shop village, Now, it takes me about two hours of travel to get supplies for my shop. If the bridge is completed, it would only take me 5-10 minutes. And as the 2019 Lok Sabha election looms, the people of Sewar and neighbouring 60 villages are threatening to boycott the polls. They are demanding that the new government complete construction of the bridge. Whichever party gets the bridge constructed, we will vote for them, said Raghunath. We hope that somebody will listen to us now, added Kalawati and Kushma Devi of Sewar village. It's a bitter deja vu for the residents. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the people of the panchayat took an oath during a meeting to not cast their vote to any political party, but in the afternoon, many administrative officials came to the village and took the votes after convicting the villagers. The sarpanch of Sewar-Pali gram panchayat, Gudiya Gurjar (26), says, "Lok Sabha elections are a few months away, and people are again talking about their decision not to vote. But no decision has been taken at the panchayat level yet. If this matter is raised in the next panchayat meeting, a concrete decision will be taken." When the Congress was in power the last time, I myself brought the PWD minister here, and yet the work could not begin, said Giriraj Singh Malinga, Congress MLA and three-time winner of the Bari Vidhan Sabha seat. Just a few days ago, I gave a letter to chief minister Ashok Gehlot. Let's see what action is taken, he added. "If the department really wants, the bridge can be completed in three months, said Lakhan Singh, PWD supervisor in Sewar in 1993, when initial construction work on the bridge was on. There was a dispute over the design of the bridge's pillar number 10 and a case was registered by the Prevention of Corruption Bureau, which is still going on. Engineers have the right to alter the design if need be, added Lakhan Singh, who retired in 2011. A retired Assistant Engineer (AE) associated with the project in 1992 said on condition of anonymity, "The area where the bridge is to be constructed is very backward. People here are dependent on farming or are daily wage labourers. The bridge will cut the distance to Madhya Pradesh by at least 100 kilometres. But lack of political will has left the bridge incomplete for 30 years." Manoj Rajoria, MP from Dholpur-Karauli Lok Sabha constituency, however, said "technical issues, not political, have stalled work. Both states some time back endorsed environmental NOCs, and tenders were issued for resuming construction. Financial approval from the finance department is awaited, Rajoria added. I hope that work starts soon. Chief engineer and additional secretary of the PWD ML Verma has said, NOC has been received from Madhya Pradesh for the bridge. A Detailed Project Report (DPR) will be made and the bridge will be ready in the coming months. All this is of little consolation to Rajni Devis family and offers little hope to the villagers. The administrative authorities are aware about the bridge. Weve made written representations to the collectors, SDM many times and they have also visited here, but there is no benefit at all," Gudiya says. What they will receive in the coming weeks is more promises. But the bridge to nowhere will forever be a reminder of how hollow such promises are. (The author is a Jaipur-based freelance writer and a member of 101Reporters) Catching a glimpse of the famed, elusive snow leopard while trekking the rugged and remote mountains of Ladakh may be a dream come true for wildlife seekers. However, these predators have had a bad rap among local villagers, many of whom often regarded them as pests, because of their tendency to prey on livestock sometimes killing many in a single incident. As a result, some local livestock herders resorted to retaliatory killings of these cats. By Neha Jain Catching a glimpse of the famed, elusive snow leopard while trekking the rugged and remote mountains of Ladakh may be a dream come true for wildlife seekers. However, these predators have had a bad rap among local villagers, many of whom often regarded them as pests, because of their tendency to prey on livestock sometimes killing many in a single incident. As a result, some local livestock herders resorted to retaliatory killings of these cats. But the perception of snow leopards appear to be changing towards a more positive light, thanks to the establishment of an innovative Himalayan Homestays ecotourism programme in the region, reports a new interview-based study. While the programme has helped change attitudes, the researchers suggest educating communities on the ecological importance of snow leopards to instill greater value for this keystone species. The Himalayan-Homestays Program has been instrumental in changing peoples attitude towards the snow leopard, said Tsewang Namgail, scientist and director of the Snow Leopard Conservancy-India Trust and co-author of the study. Retaliatory killings have completely stopped in the villages where we have our ecotourism programmes, he added. Ironically, people who used to kill snow leopards in revenge, before our intervention, are today trying to attract the cat to their villages, he revealed. This was unthinkable 20 years ago when people wanted the snow leopard as away from them as possible. Listed as vulnerable by the International Union of Conservation for Nature (IUCN), around 500 snow leopards (Panthera uncia) are found in the Indian Himalayas. To help offset losses from livestock depredation and increase tolerance towards snow leopards, the Himalayan Homestays Program (HHP), was launched in several valleys of Leh by the Snow Leopard Conservancy India Trust in 2002 providing locals an opportunity to earn an additional source of income by hosting tourists. Locals were trained in housekeeping while youth acquired skills as guides to lead nature tours, which included possible sightings of the charismatic snow leopards. To find out how the HHP affected local communities perceptions of snow leopards, the researchers interviewed 49 villagers in seven Ladakhi villages, four in the western Sham valley and three in the eastern Rong valley. Using qualitative semi-structured interviews that lasted from 15 to 60 minutes, villagers were asked if they were participants of the HHP and the values they placed on wildlife. The team focused on three types of values: intrinsic, instrumental and economic. Intrinsic values refer to valuing nature even when it doesnt offer any use to humans whereas aesthetic, spiritual and ecological values comprise instrumental values and economic values are based on money and market transactions. Himalayan Homestays, and ecotourism, in general, should provide economic value, but also ideally foster value, beyond economic, for the species itself, if that positive relationship is to persist through fluctuations in the tourism industry, explained Kate Vannelli, lead author of the study, which was her Masters dissertation at the University of Kent. From pests to a source of pride The results revealed that those who participated in the HHP (19) by hosting visitors felt a higher responsibility for wildlife compared with non-participants. They placed high instrumental value on wildlife, noted by the frequent mentions of the beauty of snow leopards during the interviews as well as a sense of pride and happiness in spotting wildlife in groups. Even those who did not directly participate by hosting visitors but had the HHP established in their community appreciated snow leopards. In contrast, most villagers in communities without the HHP, or other initiatives, expressed neutral or negative feelings towards wildlife, particularly frustration towards snow leopards, arising mainly from livestock depredation. As a result, there is potential to transform the negative perceptions to more positive ones if more communities embrace the HHP and wildlife tourism, said Vannelli, director of development for the South Africa-based nonprofit, Global Conservation Corps. But she cautions that this case study is one amongst many conservation interventions, which are dependent on many factors and so one size certainly does not fit all. Incentives are crucial to change peoples attitudes and build support for conservation, said Nabin Baral, a research associate at the University of Washington, explaining that they can be material (cash income, jobs, infrastructure, education) or non-material (values for sentient beings, altruism towards lower life forms). As we know material incentives are finite but non-material incentives are not. While designing conservation programs, it is better if both forms of incentives are taken into consideration, he stressed. According to Baral who has studied snow leopard tourism in Nepal, this study suggests to provide direct benefits at the household level to make snow leopard conservation programme successful. However, he points out that not all households may be willing or equipped to participate and such programs may not work elsewhere because conservation happens in varied contexts. This new study underscores the significance and potential of such tourism for improving coexistence between local communities and snow leopards, said Jonny Hanson, managing director of Northern Ireland-based organisation Jubilee. In previous studies, Hanson along with Baral found that tourists in Nepal are willing to pay to support snow leopard conservation and that this support is also linked to tourists knowledge of snow leopards and their conservation values. Maintaining value for snow leopards if tourism drops Another finding was that when wildlife isnt the sole reason for income, it appears to hold the highest instrumental value. The team noted that while short-term participants of the HHP (3-7 years) held both instrumental and economic value towards snow leopards, long-term participants valued them mainly economically with a few claiming they may not appreciate snow leopards if tourism stopped. I was surprised at the clear patterns that emerged throughout the interviews, especially around the level of dependence on tourism, and how this changed the relationship with snow leopards, Vannelli said. There seemed to definitely be a sweet spot in terms of economic dependence on tourism, and valuation of the snow leopard. As people become exclusively dependent on income from tourism, wildlife can become commoditised. One question that we ask ourselves is whether people will get back to their old ways of persecuting snow leopards if tourism were to decline due to war, stated Namgail. Given that we share borders with both China and Pakistan, this has been a sustained concern. Baral echoes these concerns, stating that tourism is both seasonal and volatile and, he added, since nature-based tourism focused on snow leopard sightings would occur on a small-scale and is difficult because of their elusive nature, diversified livelihoods are needed. To preserve positives attitudes towards snow leopards regardless of their value in tourism, Namgail has been educating villagers, monks and youth through workshops since 2013, on the intrinsic and ecological values of the snow leopard. Snow leopard[s] can prevent flooding in the mountains. Snow leopards control the population of mountain sheep and goats, thereby preventing overgrazing and consequently enabling water retention by mountain slopes, he explained. As villagers have experienced these, they understand these linkages easily. *** Citation: Vannelli, K. Hampton, M.P. Namgail, T. & Black, S. A. (2019). Community participation in ecotourism and its effect on local perceptions of snow leopard (Panthera uncia) conservation, Human Dimensions of Wildlife, DOI: 10.1080/10871209.2019.1563929 *** Mongabay-India is an environmental science and conservation news service. This article has been republished under the Creative Commons licence. Two Indian Coast Guard ships doused a major fire on board a ship, carrying around 30 crew members and 16 scientists late last night off the Mangaluru coast in Karnataka. Mangaluru: Two Indian Coast Guard ships doused a major fire on board a ship, carrying around 30 crew members and 16 scientists late last night off the Mangaluru coast in Karnataka. According to Coast Guard officials, Indian Coast Guard ships Vikram and Shoor doused a major fire on board a ship, Sagar Sampada. The ship is now being brought back to Mangaluru port. Sagar Sampada is an Indian research vessel that is equipped to carry out research in marine biology and fishery. During late hrs on 15 Mar 19, #SCI Research Vessel Sagar Sampada reported fire onboard at sea @IndiaCoastGuard Ships Sujay & Vikram engaged in fire fighting ops. Safety of 36 crew & 16 scientist onboard ascertained. Vessel being escorted to New Mangalore harbour.@DefenceMinIndia pic.twitter.com/OBS9OYiaqH Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) March 16, 2019 If Modis campaign slogan becomes popular and early signs show that it will it could be a daft move on Congress part to push the Chowkidar Chor Hai narrative Prime Minister Narendra Modis #MainBhiChowkidar campaign, launched on Tuesday shortly before it went viral on social media and topped the global trending chart on Twitter, is an interesting step in more ways than one. The electoral campaign, released through a tweet, comprises a song and a few lines from the prime ministers @narendramodi handle where he urges everyone to take the Main Bhi Chowkidar (I am a watchman too) pledge and stresses that while he is standing firm and doing his work as the nations chowkidar, every Indian who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils, or working hard for the progress of India is also a chowkidar. Every Indian is saying #MainBhiChowkidar, goes the slogan. Your Chowkidar is standing firm & serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar. Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 16, 2019 The three minute and forty-five second video features a catchy tune, a melange of imageries and touches upon the flagship schemes launched by the NDA government such as Swachh Bharat scheme, Ujjawala Yojana etc, before ending with an appeal to people to join the PMs "Main Bhi Chowkidar" programme on 31 March. At one level, the video and the #MainBhiChowkidar slogan effectively kills Rahul Gandhis chowkidar chor hai (the watchman himself is a thief) jibe that the Congress president has relentlessly propagated as the partys signature slogan. Rahul's jibe centres around his accusations against the prime minister of corruption in Rafale deal. Be it in public rallies or TV debates, Congress politicians and spokespersons have made liberal use of the slogan to etch it in public memory. The attempt was to emulate the gali gali mein shor hai, Rajiv Gandhi chor hai slogan of the 1980s around the Bofors scandal. But Rahul made one error: Rafale is no Bofors and Narendra Modi is no Rajiv Gandhi. Charges of corruption have not stuck to the prime minister despite Rahuls untiring efforts. Modi has been able to sustain the image of incorruptibility and his post-Balakot ratings have soared even higher. What the Main Bhi Chowkidar slogan does, is neutralise Congress blunt weapon and allows Rahul an honourable exit in a way that he gets the chance to withdraw the ineffective slogan without major embarrassment. If Modis campaign slogan becomes popular and early signs show that it will it could be a daft move on Congress part to push the Chowkidar Chor Hai narrative when the idea of Main Bhi Chowkidar gains traction. It will be an error on the lines of Hillary Clintons Basket of Deplorables comment in 2016 to describe Americans who backed Donald Trump in the presidential campaign: a move she later regretted. Some analysts said the slogan cost her the job. It would, however, be a narrow interpretation to see Modis Main Bhi Chowkidar campaign solely as a rebuttal to Congress slogan. The timing is coincidental. I am a chowkidar too is not just a catchy electoral slogan, but a statement that aims to correct injustices of the past and imbue dignity in labour, creating a new constituency of first-time entrepreneurs, blue-collar workers and the working class. The message of inclusiveness will resonate with the chaiwallahs, pakodawallahs, sanitation workers, chowkidars and others in the margin who may now feel themselves to be a part of the nation-building process. It would be misleading to see Main Bhi Chowkidar catchphrase as an empty slogan timed only for electoral benefits. Modi has made a consistent effort all through his tenure to assimilate support from the working class by focusing on dignity of labour. Before even being voted to power, during his 2014 electoral campaign Modi turned around Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyars classist jibe about tea-sellers to launch the chai pe charcha programme that set the agenda and derailed Congress campaigns. Modis reference to pakodawallahs, sanitation workers and those among the working class who put in an honest effort to make ends meet is consistent with his effort to break free of social prejudices. His washing of the feet of safai karmcharis (sanitation workers) who worked tirelessly to keep the Kumbh premises clean sent a powerful message of social inclusiveness. It might be more accurate to place the slogan in this context. To call every Indian who is against corruption, dirt, social evils and is working hard for the nations prosperity is a positive political message unlike Congresss chor slogan, and it seems to have already set the electoral agenda, going by the way Congress has reacted. The repetition of the word chowkidar and mainstreaming of it as a campaign slogan is at another level a mind game where the BJP is sticking with a lexicon which the Congress tried to subvert. It is Modis way of telling Rahul that his image will remain unaffected no matter how hard the Congress tries to sully it. A Keralite woman was among the 49 people killed in the Christchurch terror attacks and this was confirmed by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in a Facebook post Saturday. "The death of Anshi Karippakulam (27) has been confirmed and her family has been intimated," a top police official told PTI. Vijayan, in his Facebook post, termed as shocking, the news that a Kodungallur native was among those who were killed in the terror attack in New Zealand. "We have been trying to contact the embassy through Non-Resident Keralites Affairs Department (NORKA-ROOTS) to gather more information. We share the grief of the family," Vijayan said. According to reports, the woman was pursuing her MTech at a university there. Her husband Abdul Nazer hails from Kochi. Television channels also aired a visual of a man purportedly saying he was from Moovattupuzha in the State and that he had a narrow escape. "I had come to the mosque along with a friend. I had a phone call and suddenly heard gun shots and saw a man shooting people and entering the mosque," the man is heard saying in the footage. He also said he and his friend had a "narrow and lucky escape." Mass shootings at two mosques full of worshippers attending Friday prayers killed 49 people in New Zealand. Relatives claimed that even the authorities in New Zealand appeared clueless about their loved ones whereabouts, or they were not revealing anything for some reason Ahmedabad: More than 24 hours after the deadly terror attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, that left at least 49 dead and more than 40 injured, the family members and relatives of around half a dozen non-resident Gujaratis have been worried sick over no news on their loved ones whereabouts. While the Gujarat government-run Non-Resident Gujarati Foundation (NRGF) puts the figure of missing non-resident Gujaratis at three, family members of at least five have been making inquiries about their kin. Anxious and waiting The family of one Junaid Yusuf Kara (30), a native of Masjid Faliya in Adada village, around 5 kilometres from Navsari town in South Gujarat, doesnt know if he is alive or dead. Junaid has a general store in Christchurch. His aunt Fatima, who also lives in New Zealand but had come to Gujarat some days back, said they got a call from relatives in New Zealand that Junaid had died; but later, while they were mourning, they were told it isnt confirmed yet. His uncle, Fatimas husband, Suleman said they had no clue where their nephew was. We are all anxious and can only pray that he is alive, he added. Another tragic story is of a father-son duo from Memon Colony in Vadodara. Asif Vohra (58), an insurance agent, had left for New Zealand along with wife Rukhsana on 14 February. They went to oversee their pregnant daughter-in-laws delivery and take care of the newborn their son Ramiz (28) and his wife had settled in the island country three-odd years ago; an employee in a local company, shed recently given birth to a girl and had been discharged from hospital on the day of the terror attack. Asifs sister Rehana said both Asif and Ramiz had gone for Friday prayers (namaz) in one of the two mosques that were targeted. We havent got any news on them; we dont even know if they are alive or dead. When we called on Ramizs phone, it rang but no one answered. We hope they are in a hospital, getting treated. We are all worried and agitated, especially my sister-in-law Rukhsana and Ramizs wife, and are praying for their well-being, she added. Unluckily in the line of fire Fifty-two-year-old imam Hafiz Musa Wali, a native of Luwara village in Bharuch district, after spending 30 years in Fiji, had got the permanent resident status for New Zealand recently; theres been no word on his whereabouts either and his family is still waiting for some news. He was a cleric in the Al-Noor mosque, one of the two targeted. His elder brother Ayub, a farmer in Luwara, said Hafizs son Ikram Patel, who lives in Melbourne, had told him yesterday that his father had got injured in the terror attack. Ikram had said he was rushing to Christchurch. At first, we were told that Hafiz had sustained a bullet injury in the lower half of his body and was in a hospital. But after that, we havent heard anything and are still waiting, he said. Theres no information on Mehboob Khokhar (64), hailing from Ahmedabads Juhapura area. The retired engineer of Gujarat Electricity Board had gone to Christchurch with wife Akhtar Begum to meet son Imran. A relative said Mehboob had gone for namaz in one of the two mosques and was later admitted to a hospital for the injuries he sustained in the attack. Since then, we havent got any news on him from any official channel, he added. No official word yet Relatives claimed that even the authorities in New Zealand appeared clueless about their loved ones whereabouts, or they were not revealing anything for some reason. Concerned family members lamented that they were unable to track their kin through the Ministry of External Affairs or the Indian High Commission in New Zealand. A senior NRGF official admitted that there were procedural issues. He said the authorities in New Zealand have on record only three Gujaratis missing after the attack, adding that he had taken updates from the second secretary of the Indian High Commission in New Zealand, Paramjit Singh, and as per the official information Singh shared, of the total seven NRIs in the missing list, three were Gujaratis. The NRGF official said that due to local police rules and the ongoing investigation, names and other details of the missing have not been officially released as yet and that more details would be shared later. He added that the foundation has been receiving continuous queries and is trying its best to provide the latest updates but local procedural reasons are hindering the quick flow of information. (The author is an Ahmedabad-based freelance writer and a member of 101Reporters.com) Senior journalist Darryl D'Monte on Saturday passed away in Mumbai. Senior journalist Darryl D'Monte passed away in Mumbai on Saturday at 75. A former editor at The Times of India and The Indian Express, he was treated for cancer a few years ago but was in remission. Condolences can be offered at his house in Mumbai's Bandra suburb between 2 pm and 3 pm. He will be cremated at the Shivaji Park crematorium at 4 pm. D'Monte was known for his environmental journalism and articles about Mumbai and the various issues linked with the city. His book Ripping the Fabric: The Decline of Mumbai and its Mills is on the challenges faced by the city after the decline of cotton mills. Many journalists expressed their condolences on Twitter on his demise. D'Monte was the chairperson of the Forum of Environmental Journalists of India and was also the founder-president of the International Federation of Environmental Journalists in Dresden, Germany, in 1993. It is learnt that China has been informed by these countries that they are seriously looking for other options, in particular an open debate followed by a vote on a resolution to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, pretty soon. The US, France and the UK are believed to be in intense "good faith" discussions with China to arrive at a "compromise", including on the language on the UN designation of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist, according to people familiar with the matter. On Wednesday, China blocked for the fourth consecutive time a resolution at the UN Security Council Committee on designating Azhar, head of the JeM terror group, as a global terrorist. The proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council was moved by France, the UK and the US on 27 February, days after a suicide bomber of the JeM killed 44 CRPF soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, leading to a flare-up in tensions between India and Pakistan. If the fresh efforts by the US, France and the UK does not end up in the formal designation of Azhar, the three permanent members are planning to soon move a resolution for his listing in the most powerful wing of the UN which would be preceded by an open debate on the issue, according to people familiar with the matter. India had expressed disappointment over the Chinese stance and the original co-sponsors of the resolution had warned they will consider "other actions" to achieve their goal. While the internal consultations of the Security Council committee remain private, this time several Council members, frustrated at China's unreasonable stance to protect a terrorist, privately spoke to the media the negative role being played by Beijing. "If China continues to block this designation, responsible member-states may be forced to pursue other actions at the Security Council. It shouldn't have to come to that," a Security Council diplomat told PTI on Wednesday in an unusual tough warning to Beijing. In the last 50 hours, it is believed that the original sponsors of the Azhar resolution are having intense "good faith" consultations with China on what many familiar with the matter describe as a "compromise". This probably means Azhar would be designated as a global terrorist by the UN body, but the language of designation would include a language acceptable to China. China is believed to have suggested "certain changes" in the language of the terrorist designation. The US, Britain and France are believed to be currently looking at the suggestions. It is understood that there is back-and-forth exchange of texts on the matter. The three countries have indicated that they are willing to accommodate Chinese request for changes in the language as long as it does not change the substance of the resolution and it ends up designating Azhar as a UN global terrorist. But unlike in the past, the US, France, Britain and other members of the Security Council are not willing to wait for long to conclude their discussion with China. It is learnt that China has been informed by these countries that they are seriously looking for other options, in particular an open debate followed by a vote on a resolution to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, pretty soon. Not months, not weeks but days. This is what Beijing has been conveyed. At the same time, officials of the these countries believe that China this time has been much more co-operative than in the past. But in case at any point the three countries get a feeling that China is not doing a good faith negotiation on the "compromise formula" that is being negotiated, they are ready with the other move. China, after its decision to put a technical hold on the resolution, has invited criticism and its stance has also resulted in an outrage in India. Beijing would have to calculate the risk of being isolate globally on the issue of fight against terrorism or signing off to a compromised language that would designate Azhar as a global terrorist, since except China, all other UNSC members supported the resolution. Getting Chinese support to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, at the UN, in any format, would be considered as a terrific accomplishment. The very fact that there has been discussions going on between China and the US, Britain and France, is considered as a positive development. Those familiar with China's working pattern are still not confident and that's the reason why they are seriously working on other options including an open debate in the Security Council, where Beijing might find it difficult to defend a terrorist in public. A female special police officer (SPO) in the Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir died after she was shot by militants at her home on Saturday. A female special police officer (SPO) in the Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir died after she was shot by militants at her home on Saturday, reports said. Jammu and Kashmir Police said that terrorists had fired at SPO Khushboo Jan in her village in the Vehil area in the district. She sustained critical injuries and was evacuated to a hospital where she succumbed. We condemn this gruesome terror act and stand by her family at this critical juncture, a statement from the police said. A case has been registered and an investigation has been initiated, state police was quoted by ANI as saying. Jan was shot from a close range on Saturday afternoon, PTI reported. Security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a hunt for the assailants. With inputs from agencies Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday said the alliance between the BJP and the Shiv Sena is based on their commitment to a similar ideology. Nagpur: Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday said the alliance between the BJP and the Shiv Sena is based on their commitment to a similar ideology. Fadnavis said this is "New India" which is full of nationalism. This is not the "Old India" which could not take a firm stand on the issue of national security, he said, addressing a joint gathering of Sena-BJP workers in Nagpur. The BJP chief minister said the Opposition cannot compete with the saffron alliance on the issue of development. "I feel the way BJP-Sena alliance has prepared itself, I am confident our alliance will cross the 42-seat mark this time (out of the total 48) in the state. "The country's atmosphere is different now, on one side is development, but what is much dearer to BJP-Shiv Sena workers is India and nationalism," he said. "We are the people who believe in country first," said Fadnavis. Fadnavis said earlier governments only condemned terror attacks and approached world bodies like the United Nations with their grievances. He said Pakistan and its terror outfits thought this government (the BJP-led NDA), too, will be the same, but this is not Old India but New India filled with nationalism. This 'New India', under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, gave the armed forces full liberty to take revenge for terror attacks and give a befitting reply, Fadnavis said. "However, I feel sad when some people ask for proof from the armed forces. On one hand, they ask for proof from the armed forces and on the other they refer terrorist Masood Azhar as 'Azharji'. "I know these people would never get elected, but I fear if by any chance they come into power tomorrow they will change history. "They will call Aurangzeb as `Auranzebji', Afzal Khan as `Afzal Khan ji and General Dyer as General Dyer ji," Fadnavis said, in a sharp attack on the Congress. Hitting out at Opposition parties, he said they have no sense of national prestige and are only interested in politics of power. "They can go to any extent for power," said Fadnavis. He said the alliance of the BJP-Shiv-Sena is "an alliance of ideology". "We are Hindutva (parties) and are proud of it. Hindutva is not a limited concept so whosoever, irrespective of caste, creed and religion, has nationalism in him is part of this Hindutva. "This is the thread that binds the Sena and the BJP together," said Fadnavis. Defections have long since been a poll strategy, yet the days leading up to the 2019 Lok Sabha election seem particularly populated with political leaders, big and small, leaving their party and moving to another. While defections are always expected in the run-up to any major polls, the days leading up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections seem particularly populated with news of political leaders big and mall jumping ship. At least five Gujarat Congress MLAs defected to the Bharatiya Janata Party over the past month. On Tuesday, senior Maharashtra Congress leader Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil's son Sujay Vikhe Patil left the Congress to join the BJP. On Thursday came Congress spokesperson Tom Vadakkan's shock decision to join BJP after being a grand old party loyalist for 20 years. Saturday was another such day, and saw reports along with rumours of at least three key leaders changing allegiance. Danish Ali joins BSP One of the biggest names to switch was Danish Ali, who until recently was the the general secretary of the Janata Dal (Secular), but on Saturday, joined the Bahujan Samaj Party, just as the BSP was set to announce its first list of candidates. Ali joined the BSP in the presence of the party general secretary Satish Mishrs in Lucknow. "There is a threat to the Constitution today and it has become essential to align our energy with a strong leadership," Ali told ANI. A top leader of the JD(S), Ali said his ideology matches with that of BSP leader Mayawati. "We both strive to uplift the poor and weaker sections of the society. I now want to invest my energy into making the lives of the poor better," he said. Key communicator The JD(S) now loses one of the few people in its ranks who spoke good Hindi and could communicate with ease with people outside Karnataka. As one of the people involved in preparing the list of probable Lok Sabha candidates for the JD(S), Ali was present at the party meeting with Congress president Rahul Gandhi in Kochi on Wednesday, following which the seat-sharing deal was announced. Ali said he could not have hoped for the JD(S), a party based in and around Karnataka, to do well in Uttar Pradesh. "JDS doesn't have a large organisational structure in Uttar Pradesh. Despite all my efforts I could not have raised it in my janmabhoomi, my karmabhoomi," he said, justifying his move to BSP. Ali, notably, stated that he had the "blessings and permission" of JD(S) patriarch HD Deve Gowda to join the BSP, leading sources quoted by NDTV to say that with the BSP being a friendly party, this was part of a brokered plan for Mayawati's party to gain a seat in Karnataka. Balabhadra Majhi, Damodar Rout join BJP Balabhadra Majhi, Lok Sabha MP from Nabarangpur in Odisha, on Saturday joined BJP at party headquarters in New Delhi in the presence of Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, newly anointed BJP vice-president Baijayant Panda and state BJP chief Basant Panda. Majhi left Odisha's ruling Biju Janata Dal a few days ago. On Friday, a similar move was made by Damodar Rout, one of the BJD's oldest loyalists, who'd been a minister in all four governments headed by Naveen Patnaik. Though neither as big a name as Rout, nor as former Kendrapada MP Baijayant Panda, Majhi left the BJD and joined the BJP after levelling similar allegations of insult caused by the BJD as these two leaders had. "As an MP I had done a lot of work for Nabarangpur and its development, like bringing in rail tracks to the area. However, in the past few days I have not been invited to local party meetings. Many other things were happening around me in the party, which was insulting in nature and which forced to me to take this decision," said Majhi. What they bring to the party Rout is a tremendously popular leader across Odisha, which is assumed to be part of the reason why Naveen Patnaik had retained him within the ranks through the years, in spite of his open criticism of Naveen and the current state of the BJD. With Odisha having both Assembly and Lok Sabha elections, Rout will be expected to contest from his mainstay of Paradip for the state election. Majhi fought and won from the Nabarangpur constituency on a BJD ticket in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and has claimed to have done "significant work" there. Both leaders, even more than the increasing possibility of a victory for the BJP, help the saffron party expand its base in Odisha and give an increasingly isolated Naveen the message that the party is bent upon increasing its hold in the state. It remains to be seen if Nilgiri MLA Sukanta Nayak, who resigned from the BJD citing "mental harassment" on Friday, would also join the saffron party. In addition, a day after Congress chief Rahul Gandhi addressed a rally at Bargarh, party leader and Salepur MLA Prakash Behera resigned, leading to rumours that he too could join the BJP. Shyama Charan Gupta joins SP Shyama Charan Gupta, a BJP lawmaker from Uttar Pradesh, left the party and will contest the upcoming polls as a candidate of Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party. On Friday, the Allahabad MP was pretty clear about why he made the move, saying there was "no value for hard work" at the BJP. Gupta is a former Samajwadi Party leader, who left for the BJP in 2014. "Barring four or five, none of the party (BJP) MPs in the state have worked as hard as I have in the past five years. I stood by the party where and when required, be it making arrangements for the party national executive meeting or canvassing for assembly polls. Leave alone reimbursement of hefty money spent, the party leadership even failed to acknowledge this," he told Hindustan Times. What he brings to the party Gupta is a prominent Baniya leader in eastern Uttar Pradesh. A veteran, he contested from Allahabad in 2014 and won. He is likely to contest from Banda, a seat he first contested in the parliamentary elections in 1984. He lost, but by 2004, he'd won successive elections in the constituency, assuring for the SP, a ready degree of familiarity of a candidate with the electorate. Manish Khanduri joins Congress Manish Khanduri, the son of former Uttarakhand chief minister, prominent BJP leader, and retired Major General Bhuvan Chandra Khanduri, joined the Congress on Saturday. His father and his sister are prominent BJP faces. Manish had, so far, not been a keen political participant in Uttarakhand. The Quint reported that he headed news partnerships at Facebook India and had also been a journalist of some seniority with several business papers. The Statesman reported that Manish could contest from the constituency of Pauri. The constituency is held by his father, who has already announced that he will not contest in the 2019 elections. At the rally addressed also by Rahul Gandhi, Manish raised questions on BJP's nationalism. "General Saheb (his father) asked me if I would be serving honestly, and I said, yes," he said, indicating that his father had given him his support for the move. The former chief minister was removed from his post as president of the Defence Committee of the Parliament by the Narendra Modi government recently, something Rahul said was grave injustice. "Major General Khanduri's only crime was that he told the truth on the lack of resources in the Army to the country. Prime Minister Modi couldn't accept this and removed him," Rahul said. What he brings to the party Manish's sister Ritu is the sitting BJP MLA from Yamkeshwar in Pauri district and his father, as mentioned before, is a BJP MP from the constituency. With the joining of a man from a "BJP family," Congress must clearly be hoping to send a message to the BJP while at the same time snagging votes assured to the Khanduri last name. Ritu Khanduri had, on Thursday, skipped a meeting convened by the BJP at Dehradun, so the grand old party could well be hoping for a family defection. With inputs from 101Reporters and agencies The CPI(M)-led Left Front's initial list of candidates for the Lok Sabha polls has 25 names, of which four are of women and five are of Muslim candidates. The party has entered into a seat-sharing deal with the Congress in West Bengal. Kolkata: The CPI(M)-led Left Front announced its first list of candidates for 25 seats in West Bengal for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls on Friday, leaving 17 constituencies for the Congress. The list has four women and five Muslim candidates. The Left Front has nominated former Kolkata mayor and CPI(M) leader Bikas Ranjan Bhattacharya from the Jadavpur Lok Sabha constituency. He will be pitted against Trinamool Congress's (TMC) Mimi Chakraborty, a popular film actress. The state Congress leadership, which was keen on contesting the Purulia and Barasat seats, said everyone should be flexible in an adjustment. For the first time, the Left Front has opted for a seat-sharing deal with its once arch rival, the Congress, for the Lok Sabha polls in the state. Earlier in 2016, against the wishes of its Left allies, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) had entered into a seat-sharing deal with the Congress for the state Assembly polls. Struck in a hurried manner, the deal had failed to evoke mass support. In a press statement, West Bengal Left Front chairman Biman Bose said the 25 Lok Sabha seats included Raiganj and Murshidabad, for which the candidates were declared earlier. "For the remaining 17 seats, some will be contested by the Congress and some by the Left Front. In some seats, there might be candidates who would be jointly supported by the Congress and the Left Front," the statement added. The state CPI(M) leadership is in a fix over choosing between the Congress and its Left Front allies, who are not willing to leave the Purulia and Barasat seats, which they have been contesting for decades. The Congress is keen on contesting these two seats, leading to an impasse in the seat-sharing talks. Bose said it was decided at the Left Front meeting that the CPI and the Forward Bloc would contest Purulia and Barasat respectively, but if the Congress wanted to field its candidates in these two seats, they could go ahead. Reacting to the development, state Congress chief Somen Mitra said they would discuss the matter within the party and announce their list very soon. "We will inform the party high-command about it. We will discuss the matter and announce our list. They (Left) did whatever they felt right and we will do whatever we feel right," he said. The CPI(M) and the Congress have agreed on a seat-sharing adjustment to stop the march of the ruling TMC and a resurgent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Bengal. The Left Front has nominated Mohammed Salim and Badaruddoza Khan from Raiganj and Murshidabad respectively. Both of them had won these seats in 2014. In Diamond Harbour, senior CPI(M) leader Fuad Halim will be pitted against sitting TMC MP and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's nephew Abhishek Banerjee. In the Dum Dum Lok Sabha seat, the Left Front has fielded CPI(M) leader Nepaldeb Bhattacharya against sitting TMC MP Sougata Roy. The Left Front has also nominated Rejaul Karim, a medical practitioner, from the Birbhum seat. A doctor at a government hospital, Karim was suspended by the TMC government for participating in a rally against it in November last year. The seven-phased Lok Sabha polls will be held from April 11 to May 19 and the counting of votes will be taken up on May 23. West Bengal will go to the polls in all the seven phases. Lok Sabha Election 2019 Tracker LIVE updates: Speaking at Akhnoor in Jammu, Narendra Modi attacked the Opposition grand alliance, and said that the 'mahamilawati' leaders are bound to face 'mahagirawat' (great destruction). Auto refresh feeds BJP chief Amit Shah will address rallies at Koliabor and Teok in Assam's Jorhat district in a daylong trip to the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to begin active election campaigning on Thursday with rallies in Meerut in Uttar Pradesh, Rudrapur in Uttarakhand and Jammu in Jammu and Kashmir. All three seats go to polls in the first phase on 11 April. Congress chief Rahul Gandhi will have a busy day in Haryana with five roadshows in a single day, at Jagadhri, Radaur, Ladwa, Indri and Karnal in Haryana. Newly anointed Congress general secretary for Uttar Pradesh, Priyanka Gandhi has said that she is open to contesting elections. Priyanka has been campaigning at Amethi and is scheduled to visit Ayodhya on Friday. Bollywood actor-turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha, who has been associated with BJP for about three decades, will join the Congress on Thursday and is likely to be fielded from Patna Sahib. The development came a day after, Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy raised fears about possible raids on Congress and JD(S) functionaries in the state. He had claimed that CRPF personnel were brought from various parts of the country to carry out the raids in the state. In a pre-dawn swoop today, Income Tax officials along with CRPF personnel carried out raids at the residences of Karnataka Minor Irrigation Minister CS Puttaraju and his nephew, reported News18. In what is being considered a very youth-oriented poll plank, the SP will form a youth commission to help formulate policies. Samajwadi Party will release its 2019 Lok Sabha election manifesto on Thursday. The party manifesto will focus on jobs for youth, reported News18. Reports say the high command upset with the allocation of certain seats and some Congress leaders have suggested calling off the alliance. Rahul will have one-on-one meetings with senior Congress leaders. Amidst reports that discontent is brewing between the Congress and its Bihar ally, the Rashtriya Janata Dal over seat-sharing, Rahul Gandhi will meet his party's Bihar unit to finalize alliance details. The state government has also cancelled the transfer of the intelligence chief. Naidu has called the EC's decision "undemocratic and one-sided". The EC's orders follow a complaint filed by Telugu Desam Party's rival, YSR Congress Party, alleging that phones of the party's leaders are being tapped by top police officials in the state. The Chandrababu Naidu government in Andhra Pradesh has filed a writ petition at the High Court over the Election Commission of India's orders to transfer a few top cops in the state including the state's intelligence chief. The hearing is on Thursday. A wall collapsed at Jagan's rally in Mandapet town, killing a woman and injuring 20, while Naidu's road show in Ananthpur saw 20 people injured after a wall gave away. In a strange and tragic coincidence, both Telugu Desam Party chief Chandrabu Naidu and YSRCP chief Jaganmohan Reddy's rallies on Wednesday saw serious accidents take place. In the video, the BJP has alleged that the UPA regime had compromised on providing assistance to the Indian armed forces to make it easier for Vadra (referred to as jijaji) to get "commission". BJP has released a new campaign video, this time aimed at Congress president Rahul Gandhi's brother-in-law Robert Vadra, under investigation by the Enforcement Directorate in a land scam. "He (Rahul) has said whatever he felt like. I won't like to make any comment on it. He is just a kid. What will I say about it?" Mamata said. She also refused to comment on Rahul's minimum income promise ahead of the Lok Sabha election. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday dismissed Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's allegations against her government, saying "he is just a kid". "All those deployed at such polling stations - police, election officers and other employees - will be women. These booths, an initiative towards gender equality and involving women's participation in the electoral process, will be called as 'Sakhi Matdan Kendras'," it said. As per the Election Commission's (EC) directions to set up polling stations entirely managed by women, such booths will be set up in all 40 Lok Sabha seats of the state, a release issued by the election office here said. An all-women polling booth will be set up in every Lok Sabha constituency of Maharashtra during the next month's polls in a bid to encourage more female voters to exercise their franchise. Speaking to a private news channel, JD(S) leader Puttaraju said three teams of Income Tax officials and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel carried out raids at his Chinnakurli residence in Mandya and his nephew's house in Mysuru. In a predawn swoop Thursday, Income Tax officials along with CRPF personnel carried out raids at the residences of Karnataka Minor Irrigation Minister CS Puttaraju and his nephew. JD(S) leader Madhu Bangarappa said Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy had already "spoken" about this, because he got inputs from the intelligence department and questioned why BJP leaders' houses were left unscathed, reported ANI. "This is out in the open through I-T raids. The constitutional post offer for I-T officer Balakrishna has helped the PM in his revenge game. It is highly deplorable to use government machinery, corrupt officials to harass opponents during election time," he said. 28 March, 2019 | HDK tears into BJP over raids on JD(S) minister's house, says I-T official was offered post as bribe Reports say the Congress high command is upset with the allocation of certain seats and some Congress leaders have suggested calling off the alliance. This comes amidst reports that discontent is brewing between the Congress and its Bihar ally, the Rashtriya Janata Dal over seat-sharing. A meeting has begun at Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's residence between the party brass and its Bihar leaders. He also touched upon the safety of women, the respect accorded by his government to idealogues Chaudhary Charan Singh and Deenbandhu Chhoturam, the allegedly false promises made by Indira Gandhi ('gareeb, gareeb hi rehe gaya') and the numerous schemes brought by his government. There is little that Modi did not speak on, when it came to issues at the Meerut rally. The prime minister spun his full repertoire of rhetorics for repeated slams on the Congress, the SP-BSP alliance and critics of his government. He, however, did give a new spin to the old 'saabka saath, saabka vikas' slogan and instead said 'saabka saath, saabka hisaab.' "They wanted to become heroes of Pakistan. Will you forgive these people?" he asked to resounding cheers. "Uttarakhand has four holy dhams to which I wish to add a fifth dham, the sainik dham," said Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He, once again, asked the crowds if it was okay to question whether India had indeed done the Balakot air strikes. 28 March, 2019 | Will add fifth dham for sainiks to Uttarakhand's four dhams, says Modi "If Modi ji is elected again we will ensure every infiltrator is removed from Assam," Amit Shah said at his Assam rally on Thursday. The BJP has run into choppy waters in Assam over the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, which has seen widespread protests, and a firm promise by the BJP chief is likely to help the party at this point. Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has written to Chief Electoral Officer of Bhubaneswar demanding action against BJP for alleged violation of Model Code of Conduct 'for surrogate advertising through a TV serial broadcast on a TV channel in which the characters talk about Atal Pension Yojana, ANI reported. "There are two sets of parties today. Those who are neutral and those who are anti-BJP. I am anti-BJP, while Naveen Patnaik, according to me, is neutral. On 23 May (counting day), there will be a new prime minister. I can assure that." "Jaganmohan is a criminal. He is a cheat. BJP is supporting Jagan as they feel he will support them post polls. There is a hidden nexus between them. Both TRS and YSRCP are with the BJP... I am not in the race to be the next prime minister, but we will all sit together post polls and work out a solution. Democratic compulsions far bigger today than political compulsions. 28 March, 2019 | I'm not in race to be PM, says Chandrababu Naidu In an interview, TDP chief and Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu said, "I am not a contender for prime minister's post. I am being targeted by the BJP government through YSRCP leader Jaganmohan Reddy. ANI quoted Kumaraswamy as saying, "I-T department should work independently, but it's working under the instructions of Narendra Modi and Amit Shah. After the BJP came to power, it (the situation) has become like a dictatorship. Do you think the I-T director in Bengaluru is innocent? I also have lot of records." Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy, his deputy G Parameshwara, and other senior Congress-JD(S) coalition leaders are currently protesting outside I-T office against raids at residence of Karnataka minister CS Puttaraju in Mandya. He further said, "I was once travelling in a bus while your vehicle was passing by. There was a traffic jam, so I got off the bus thinking maybe you would do a dance number or two to clear the jam." The National Commission for Women has issued a notice to Samajwadi Party leader Firoz Khan over his remark on BJP Rampur candidate Jaya Prada. Khan on Thursday stirred a controversy by saying people of Rampur will get entertained in the ensuing polls, where Samajwadi Party's Azam Khan will face BJP's newly-inducted member Jaya Prada. "Evenings in Rampur will now become more vibrant during elections. Azam Khan has done enough for the people of Rampur, so they will surely vote for him. But they will leave no stone unturned in getting entertained during this one-off opportunity." Asserting that the NDA government has worked for development in every field, Shah said, "To save Assam, infiltration has to be stopped and the Congress cannot do this work." Addressing a rally in Assam's Teok, BJP chief Amit Shah claimed that he is hearing only slogans for Narendra Modi government's re-election these days. "Wherever I go, I'm hearing the same slogan: "Fir ek bar, Modi Sarkar (Once again, Modi government)." Attacking the Opposition grand alliance, he said, "The Opposition that doesn't have a prime minister candidate or a policy can't develop the country or work for the welfare of the people." " Former prime minister Manmohan Singh was an MP for 20 years from Assam. However, the Congress failed to do any development for the region," Amit Shah said while addressing a rally in Assam's Teok. According to reports, an alliance between the Congress and the NCP is unlikely in Gujarat. The NCP also released its list of star campaigners on Thursday, featuring prominent names like Sharad Pawar, Ajit Pawar, and Supriya Sule.. According to ANI, BJP's Kozhikode Lok Sabha candidate Prakash Babu has been remanded to 14-day judicial custody by a Pathanamthitta court in connection with the violence in Sabarimala. According to Samajwadi Party's new list, Nasir Qureshi will contest from Moradabad, Bhagwat Sharan Gangwar from Bareily,Pooja Pal from Unnao, Shyam Sunder Yadav from Jhansi and Nathuni Prasad Kushwaha from Kushinagar. Lalu Prasad's son Tej Pratap Yadav tweeted that he has resigned as the chief of RJD's student wing. Addressing a rally in Assam's Teok, BJP chief Amir Shah said, "Din mein to Congress ke Gogoi ji aur Ajmal (AIUDF Cheif Badruddin Ajmal) aamne saamne chunaav ladte hain. Magar jab raat hoti hai, dono ke beech mein ilu-ilu chalu ho jata hai (During the day, Congress' Tarun Gogoi and AIUDF's Badruddin Ajmal fiercely contest elections, but in the night, the two share a friendly relationship)." Addressing a rally in Jammu, Narendra Modi said that it was an honour that he got to visit Jammu on the first day of his election campaign and that he was able to seek blessings of Vaishno Devi. He further said, "After the strike in Balakot, the Congress leaders have been speaking such things that are not in the favour of the country. How can an individual find anything acceptable that is being lauded in Pakistan. They're asking for proof of the attacks, " he said. peaking at Akhnoor in Jammu, Narendra Modi lashed out at the Congress for demanding proof of Balakot air strike. "Amid the call to end terrorism, what has happened to the Congress and its allies. I simply don't understand that is it the same Congress which belong to Sardar Patel. I don't understand is it the same Congress in which Subhash Chandra Bose had dreamed of an independent India? My soul says it's not the same Congress. What is your opinion?" Narendra Modi accused the Congress, National Conference and PDP of praising the people who promote terrorism in the Valley. "They have a problem in saying 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' , but they are proud to hail those who promote terrorism," he said. He also blamed the three parties of stalling developmental projects in state. Speaking at Akhnoor in Jammu, Narendra Modi attacked the Opposition grand alliance. "If the people of Jammu have faith in chowkidaar, then note it down that the mahamilawati leaders are bound to face mahagirawat (great destruction)," he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "The guru of Congress naamdar (Sam Pitroda, Rahul Gandhi's media advisor), who accompanies Rahul on foreign trips, gave clean-chit to terrorists and Pakistan on television. Jab guru hi aisa hoga to chele kaise honge, aur chele ke sathi kaise honge. (When the guru is of such kind, then how would his followers be?)" Speaking on development, Narendra Modi said, "Your chowkidaar (watchman) is committed to ensuring the fulfillment of the five points of development: Education for children, income for youth, medicine for the old, irrigation for farmers, and voice of the public." In Dhaurahra, Congress workers staged a demostraction demnanding Jitin Prasad be giving ticket from the constituency. Prasada responded to it, saying, "I am a disciplined soldier of the party and will do what I am told." Samajwadi Party releases another list of candidates. Nasir Qureshi to contest from Moradabad, Bhagwat Sharan Gangwar from Bareily,Pooja Pal from Unnao, Shyam Sunder Yadav from Jhansi and Nathuni Prasad Kushwaha from Kushinagar. #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/OJNTRjtMA4 According to Samajwadi Party's new list, Nasir Qureshi will contest from Moradabad, Bhagwat Sharan Gangwar from Bareily,Pooja Pal from Unnao, Shyam Sunder Yadav from Jhansi and Nathuni Prasad Kushwaha from Kushinagar. Lalu Prasad's son Tej Pratap Yadav tweeted that he has resigned as the chief of RJD's student wing. Addressing a rally in Assam's Teok, BJP chief Amir Shah said, "Din mein to Congress ke Gogoi ji aur Ajmal (AIUDF Cheif Badruddin Ajmal) aamne saamne chunaav ladte hain. Magar jab raat hoti hai, dono ke beech mein ilu-ilu chalu ho jata hai (During the day, Congress' Tarun Gogoi and AIUDF's Badruddin Ajmal fiercely contest elections, but in the night, the two share a friendly relationship)." Addressing a rally in Jammu, Narendra Modi said that it was an honour that he got to visit Jammu on the first day of his election campaign and that he was able to seek blessings of Vaishno Devi. He further said, "After the strike in Balakot, the Congress leaders have been speaking such things that are not in the favour of the country. How can an individual find anything acceptable that is being lauded in Pakistan. They're asking for proof of the attacks, " he said. peaking at Akhnoor in Jammu, Narendra Modi lashed out at the Congress for demanding proof of Balakot air strike. "Amid the call to end terrorism, what has happened to the Congress and its allies. I simply don't understand that is it the same Congress which belong to Sardar Patel. I don't understand is it the same Congress in which Subhash Chandra Bose had dreamed of an independent India? My soul says it's not the same Congress. What is your opinion?" Narendra Modi accused the Congress, National Conference and PDP of praising the people who promote terrorism in the Valley. "They have a problem in saying 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' , but they are proud to hail those who promote terrorism," he said. He also blamed the three parties of stalling developmental projects in state. Speaking at Akhnoor in Jammu, Narendra Modi attacked the Opposition grand alliance. "If the people of Jammu have faith in chowkidaar, then note it down that the mahamilawati leaders are bound to face mahagirawat (great destruction)," he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "The guru of Congress naamdar (Sam Pitroda, Rahul Gandhi's media advisor), who accompanies Rahul on foreign trips, gave clean-chit to terrorists and Pakistan on television. Jab guru hi aisa hoga to chele kaise honge, aur chele ke sathi kaise honge. (When the guru is of such kind, then how would his followers be?)" Speaking on development, Narendra Modi said, "Your chowkidaar (watchman) is committed to ensuring the fulfillment of the five points of development: Education for children, income for youth, medicine for the old, irrigation for farmers, and voice of the public." Dhaurahra: Congress workers stage demonstration demanding Jitin Prasada be given ticket from the constituency. Prasada says 'I am a disciplined soldier of the party and will do what I am told' pic.twitter.com/FYfHXOHUFl In Dhaurahra, Congress workers staged a demostraction demnanding Jitin Prasad be giving ticket from the constituency. Prasada responded to it, saying, "I am a disciplined soldier of the party and will do what I am told." Lok Sabha election 2019; pre-poll trends LATEST updates: Speaking at Akhnoor in Jammu, Narendra Modi attacked the Opposition grand alliance, and said that the "mahamilawati" leaders are bound to face "mahagirawat" (great destruction). He also lashed out at the Congress for demanding proof of Balakot air strike. "After the strike in Balakot, the Congress leaders have been speaking such things that are not in the favour of the country. How can an individual find anything acceptable that is being lauded in Pakistan. They're asking for proof of the attacks, " he said. Addressing a rally in Assam's Teok, BJP chief Amit Shah said, "Former prime minister Manmohan Singh was an MP for 20 years from Assam. However, the Congress failed to do any development for the region." In an interview, TDP chief and Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu said, "I am not a contender for prime minister's post. I am being targeted by the BJP government through YSRCP leader Jaganmohan Reddy." However, he assured that on 23 May which is the counting day, India will have a new prime minister. Speaking at a campaign rally at Kaliabor in Assam, BJP chief Amit Shah on Thursday recited a list of the Narendra Modi government's achievements and vowed that if Modi is elected again, the BJP would ensure every infiltrator is removed from Assam. On a day when it was widely expected that Shatrughan Sinha will join the Congress, it was announced by the party that he will join the party on 6 April. The actor-turned-politician has, however, met Congress chief Rahul Gandhi. In a shorter speech than his Meerut one, Modi made it clear in Rudrapur that he is willing to rake up the Balakot air strikes in order to strike the nationalism chord when and where required. This was the second rally where he has called Rahul Gandhi "Pakistan's hero." "The people of Uttarakhand have always been with me. This is a contribution which I never forget," he said. In the rally, he also highlighted the several measures taken by his government in the state. PM Narendra Modi began the second of his three rallies of Thursday at Rudrapur in Uttarakhand by stressing that the Congress, which never thinks about the poor, sat on the Rafale deal for 10 years because they failed to make a profit out of it. Modi uttered yet another invocation of the nation's Army in the beginning when he called Uttarakhand "the land of the brave, the land of sacrifices." Reports have said that actor-turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha who has been with the BJP for a very long time, is now headed to meet Congress chief Rahul Gandhi. The party has promised "good news" on the Sinha front soon, say reports. Minutes after Modi had stopped speaking at his first campaign rally at Meerut, Congress communication in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala said in a press conference that the prime minister should apologise for comparing three political parties of the country to alcohol with his "sarab" jibe and also for "mocking the poor of the country." "It is unfortunate that when we speak of NYAY, Mr Modi mocks the poor of the country. Previously he had mocked the poor of the country during demonetisation, this shows his true character," Surjewala said. There is little that Modi did not speak on, when it came to issues at the Meerut rally. He combined the 'sa' of Samajwadi Party, the 'ra' of RLD and the 'B' of Bahujan Samaj Party together form 'SARAB'. The acronym, it is understood, stands for alcohol. The prime minister spun his full repertoire of rhetorics for repeated slams on the Congress, the SP-BSP alliance and critics of his government. He, however, did give a new spin to the old 'saabka saath, saabka vikas' slogan and instead said 'saabka saath, saabka hisaab.' He also touched upon the safety of women, the respect accorded by his government to idealogues Chaudhary Charan Singh and Deenbandhu Chhoturam, the allegedly false promises made by Indira Gandhi ('gareeb, gareeb hi rehe gaya') and the numerous schemes brought by his government. "If someone goes to the theatre to see a play, he or she expects drama, new sets. Sets is a common term in theatre. Some people who were confused, thought I meant theatre 'sets' when I said 'A-SAT'," Modi said, taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi over the latter's World Theatre Day snub of the PM's Mission Shakti announcement yesterday. India has decided, phir ek baar Modi sarkar, Narendra Modi said at his first rally in Meerut on Thursday. He kicked off the rally by remembering the Chaudhary Charan Singh and saying that he has followed in the leader's footsteps in prioritising farmers over all others. Speaking before Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Meerut, UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath repeated the selfsame chant of the BJP, 'Modi hain toh mumkin hain' and said Modi has been synonymous to development by now. Fresh off the controversial speech on Mission Shakti which has also attracted ECs scrutiny after India's launch of an anti-satellite weapon on Wednesday, the prime minister will speak in rallies at Meerut in Uttar Pradesh, Rudrapur in Uttarakhand and Jammu in Jammu and Kashmir. A meeting has begun at Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's residence between the party brass and its Bihar leaders. This comes amidst reports that discontent is brewing between the Congress and its Bihar ally, the Rashtriya Janata Dal over seat-sharing. Reports say the Congress high command is upset with the allocation of certain seats and some Congress leaders have suggested calling off the alliance. Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy called the raids of JD(S) minister Putturaju's house the "real surgical strike". "This is out in the open through I-T raids. The constitutional post offer for I-T officer Balakrishna has helped the PM in his revenge game. It is highly deplorable to use government machinery, corrupt officials to harass opponents during election time," he said. In a predawn swoop Thursday, Income Tax officials along with CRPF personnel carried out raids at the residences of Karnataka Minor Irrigation Minister CS Puttaraju and his nephew. Speaking to a private news channel, JD(S) leader Puttaraju said three teams of Income Tax officials and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel carried out raids at his Chinnakurli residence in Mandya and his nephew's house in Mysuru. The development came a day after, Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy raised fears about possible raids on Congress and JD(S) functionaries in the state. Thursday promises to be a high octane day as far as developments in the road to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections is concerned. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hit the election trail for the first time since the dates of the election were announced on 10 March. Modi's speech has also invited censure from Opposition parties which have questioned the timing of the speech and also alleged that Modi has chosen to dramatise the achievement for polltime gains. TMC chief and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee had said that the TMC will approach Election Commission to file a complaint on the speech. It is, however, up to the Election Commission to interpret it in that manner. Modi did not explicitly turn the speech into a poll pitch, but the BJP leadership did pat Modis back for the success of the mission. The partys social media team has also been strategically pointing out that Modi deserved credit for having the courage to give a go-ahead for the project, something they allege that the previous UPA government stopped short of. The poll code does bar the ruling party from using the governments achievements in a way to further political interests. For now, the Election Commission has sought an active transcript of Modis speech from the government. A committee headed by the Deputy Election Commissioner Sandeep Saxena will examine the prime minister's address on Mission Shakti for possible Model Code of Conduct violation. BJP chief Amit Shah, meanwhile, will address rallies at Koliabor and Teok in Assam's Jorhat district in a daylong trip to the state. In Bihar, the BJP will be losing its longtime member, actor-turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha, to the Congress on Thursday. Sinha is likely to be fielded from the Patna Sahib seat in Bihar, which he currently holds. Although not all is okay within the Congress either in the state of Bihar. Amidst reports that discontent is brewing between the Congress and its Bihar ally, the Rashtriya Janata Dal over seat-sharing, Rahul Gandhi will meet his party's Bihar unit to finalize alliance details. Reports say the Congress high command is upset with the allocation of certain seats and some Congress leaders have suggested calling off the alliance. Rahul's Bihar meeting will come on a day when he will hold a whopping five roadshows at Jagadhri, Radaur, Ladwa, Indri and Karnal in Haryana. Meanwhile in Uttar Pradesh, Rahul's sister, newly anointed Congress general secretary for Uttar Pradesh, Priyanka Gandhi, indicated on Wednesday that she would be open to contesting the 2019 election if the party wants her to. Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party will release its 2019 Lok Sabha election manifesto on Thursday. The party manifesto will focus on jobs and in what is being considered a very youth-oriented poll plank, the Samajwadi Party will form a youth commission to help formulate policies. In Karnataka, meanwhile, Putturaju claimed that CRPF personnel were brought from various parts of the country to carry out the raids. "Three teams of I-T officials and CRPF soldiers comprising eight soldiers carried out raids at my Chinnakurli residence in Mandya and my nephew's residence in Mysuru," Puttaraju told a channel. The minister said he was not afraid of the raids and instead, it had instilled confidence in him. Lok Sabha elections will begin on 11 April and continue for over a month till 19 May across seven phases, followed by counting of votes on 23 May, the Election Commission announced Sunday, kick-starting a mega electoral battle where the BJP will pitch for a re-election of the Modi government amid the Opposition's efforts for a united fight to unseat it. The polling will be held on 11 April, 18 April, 23 April, 29 April, 6 May, 12 May and 19 May for 543 Lok Sabha seats across the country in which nearly 90 crore voters would be eligible to vote, Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said. Assembly elections will also be held in Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Odisha simultaneously with the Lok Sabha polls, the CEC said. While Modi supporters pledged to join in the prime minister's efforts to curb corruption, there was some Congress bashing as well Congress has reacted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's main bhi chowkidar (I too am watchman) campaign pledge, claiming that those indulging in graft cannot pose as anti-corruption crusaders. Congress president Rahul Gandhi called the move 'defensive', while his party leaders hit back with the chowkidar chor hai (watchman is the thief) jibe. Defensive tweet Mr Modi! You feeling a little guilty today? pic.twitter.com/ztVGRlc599 Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) March 16, 2019 10 - -- 5200Cr 84 - 2010Cr 30000 Cr ! pic.twitter.com/y00Cncw9dG Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) March 16, 2019 Modi Saturday urged his supporters to take the main bhi chowkidar pledge, saying he is not alone in the fight against graft and social evils. "Your chowkidar is standing firm and serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a chowkidar. Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar," he wrote on Twitter. He also posted a video, a little over three minutes long, to drive home his message. Your Chowkidar is standing firm & serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar. Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 16, 2019 As expected, the move triggered a flurry of reactions from his supporters as well as his opponents. Modi has often described himself as a "chowkidar" who would neither allow corruption nor get corrupted himself. Congress has been repeatedly hurling the chowkidar chor hai jibe at Modi to claim irregularities and favouritism in the Rafale fighter jet deal, a charge the BJP-led government has rejected. While Modi supporters pledged to join in the prime minister's efforts to curb corruption, there was some Congress bashing as well. I love Tea & I trust My Chaiwala PM. Applied first time for voter card,Just to make sure our chowkidar will continue protect & lead to progress us. @narendramodi @PMOIndia #MainBhiChowkidar pic.twitter.com/m0hZg1pgWQ Mahesh Giri (@MSGiri87) March 16, 2019 I am proud to join #MainBhiChowkidar movement. As a citizen who loves India, I shall do my best to defeat corruption, dirt, poverty & terrorism and help create a #NewIndia which is strong, secure & prosperous. https://t.co/5iLtmr9Mx0#ModiHaiToMumkinHai #PhirEkbaarModiSarkar pic.twitter.com/H7xIg1x9us Temsutula Imsong (@temsutulaimsong) March 16, 2019 Another Modi supporter urged people to "forgive" the prime minister's "mistakes" and vote for him once again. #AapKaSapnaPurakarna Modiji promises to fulfill your dream he has transformed India see his performance forgive his mistakes nobody is perfect#MainBhiChowkidar #voteformodi #ModiHaiToMumkinHai #NamumkinAbMumkinHai pic.twitter.com/P7SYo9ufuf satish bhangar (@satishniti) March 16, 2019 C - Chor C - Corruption C - Commission on all deals C - commitment for Money C - Country comes Last C - Cash first C - Cast politics Combined all this we are C - Congress @INCIndia @RahulGandhi#MainBhiChowkidar #2019Elections Sheshender Singh (@SheshenderSingh) March 16, 2019 Some people frowned upon the timing of the move, stating that it would have been more effective if it was not tied up to the election campaign. Nice song #MainBhiChowkidar but my only protest it, this should have been non election song,selfless for country and could have released with better intention before. @creativepagal check this Raj.Rocker (@Rajrocker1) March 16, 2019 #MainBhiChowkidaar was the top trend on Twitter Saturday morning. Rahul Gandhi is ignorant of the fact that corruption alone cant ensure a governments fall or a partys election defeat. How do you deny an allegation? Just deny it, of course! Right? Wrong. One excellent way to deal with an allegation is to just let it go: not saying anything about it. Thats what Barack Obama did in 2012. And thats what Narendra Modi did in 2014 and is doing again in 2019. A campaign against Obama saying he was a Muslim began in 2004, when he contested US Senate elections and continued after his election as the US president in 2009. It was so bad that, when Obama came to India in 2010, he abandoned a plan to visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar, fearing that if he wore a headscarf in the temple the photograph of it might be used to say he was a Muslim. A poll at that time said that nearly a quarter of Americans indeed believed he was a Muslim. Almost on a daily basis, the Obama team had to deny that he was not a Muslim. But the campaign persisted in 2012 when he sought re-election as president. Then the story changed. On the advice of a consortium of behavioural scientists, known as COBS, that was formed to help Obama, he stopped denying he was a Muslim. He started saying he was a Christian. He was told that denials perpetuated a rumour and even confirmed it in peoples minds, and that the best way to refute a negative story was to spread a different, positive story. Thats what team Obama began to do. He was re-elected. The Modi mantra Thats what Narendra Modi and his team also did during the run-up to the 2014 election, when he was BJPs PM candidate. One of Modis biggest tasks was to shake off his taint of the 2002 Gujarat riots. At first, he and BJP leaders began to deny he had anything to do with it. They spoke at length about the clean chit that Modi had received from courts. Then team Modi discovered that a new broom sweeps cleaner. They stopped well, almost talking about the riots. They began to wax eloquent on Modis development scorecard in Gujarat. Its plain common sense that the more you talk about a negative thing hurled at you the more it lingers in the memory of the audience, leading to even more curiosity about it. The bottomline of this is that what you dont talk about in politics is as important as what you do. Demo does a Houdini Thats also the reason why demonetisation has disappeared from Modis narrative for the 2019 elections. It may find an occasional, fleeting mention, but it isnt among the things that Modi or BJP tout as achievements to get votes. Too many people, even those who are not the regular Modi baiters, have trashed demonetisation for BJP to trumpet it as an accomplishment. Besides, Modi and his party have other positive things to speak about. Topping that list is the 26 February Balakot air strikes on the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror base in Pakistan. Even Rahul Gandhi was talking about Balakot air raids. And that turned out to be a problem for Congress. Modi was talking about the raids in a way BJP would get votes. Rahul was talking about the raids in a way Congress was guaranteed to lose votes. Modi was claiming credit for acting against terror, something no Congress government had ever done. People knew this to be true and Balakot stoked their pride and nationalism. Opinion polls conducted after the raids proved it to some extent, though its clear that this alone cant ensure a landslide for the BJP in the upcoming Lok Sabha election. But the way Congress accused BJP of politicising the air raids appeared to undermine the nationalism of the man-on-the-street. The Jan Sangh, the previous avatar of BJP, never denied Indira Gandhi the credit for winning the 1971 war with Pakistan. Balakot wasnt the only thing that Rahul was talking about which he shouldnt be talking about. The alleged Rafale scam is another. The Rafale fiasco Rahul is ignorant of the fact that corruption alone cant ensure a governments fall or a partys election defeat. It can only contribute, even if substantially, to an election outcome, as it happened to Congress in 1989 and UPA in 2014. The Congress was never on a strong ground on Rafale, and the Balakot raids made the issue even more irrelevant, but Rahul continues to make the ridiculous allegation of Modi putting Rs 30,000 crore in the pocket of Anil Ambani without an iota of proof. Rahuls allegations or even the documents published in The Hindu have nothing to say on whether Modi or any of his ministers took money in the Rafale deal. There is simply nothing in terms of a money trail. The Hindu was stopped from publishing Bofors documents by the Congress government in 1989 because, as its editor N Ram told me at that time, they were beginning to point to the money trail. In the Rafale deal, evidence available so far only suggests that there were procedural irregularities. Without doubt, these must be exposed and questioned, but Rahul depending solely on this to target Modi is bad strategy. What Rahul should be talking about, on the other hand, are kitchen table issues. He does indeed talk about unemployment and plight of farmers, but not in a manner that instills confidence in listeners that he can be trusted to create jobs and help farmers, if voted. But first, Rahul must learn what not to talk about, before plunging into things that he should. There isnt too much time for him to waste. Reuters Shares of Facebook Inc fell as much as 5 percent on Friday to their lowest in nearly three months after the surprise departure of Chief Product Officer Chris Cox, at a time when the company is again being scrutinized over its handling of privacy, extremism and political content. Cox, a Wall Street favourite who has worked with Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg for 13 years, led the social networks business development team and helped define the business model of its messaging service WhatsApp. We believe Cox played a critical role in establishing FBs mission, values, and culture, and he was extremely well-regarded inside and outside the company, including by Wall Street, JPMorgan analysts wrote in a research note. Also departing is WhatsApp Vice President Chris Daniels, adding to a string of recent high-profile exits from Facebooks product and communications teams. Facebook, Twitter and Google were also facing another round of public discussions over extremist content on their platforms on Friday, after video footage of mass shootings in New Zealand was live streamed and widely shared online. The live-streaming of New Zealands shooting will certainly bring on more questions of regulation and scrutiny over Facebook. It helped provide a platform for todays horrific attack and will undoubtedly be called into question for facilitating the spread of this, said Clement Thibault, analyst at global financial markets platform Investing.com. The gunman, who was part of attacks that killed 49 people in New Zealand, broadcast live footage on Facebook of the attack on one of the mosques, leading to calls for more content moderation by the social network. Britains interior minister Sajid Javid said social media firms must take action to stop extremism on their channels after Fridays shootings. You really need to do more @YouTube @Google @facebook @Twitter to stop violent extremism being promoted on your platforms, Javid wrote on Twitter. The social media companies have said they would take down content involving the mass shootings, which were posted online as the attack unfolded. Facebook has been investing heavily to weed out fake content from its platform and has hired thousands of employees for moderating content and suspended hundreds of suspicious accounts in different countries. The companys shares were down 2.5 percent at $165.83 in midday trade. President Donald Trump played down any threat posed by racist white nationalism on Friday after the gunman accused of the New Zealand mosque massacre called the president a symbol of renewed white identity. Washington: President Donald Trump played down any threat posed by racist white nationalism on Friday after the gunman accused of the New Zealand mosque massacre called the president a symbol of renewed white identity. Trump, whose own previous responses to the movement have drawn scrutiny, expressed sympathy for the victims who died at places of worship turned into scenes of evil killing. But he declined to join expressions of mounting concern about white nationalism, saying I dont, really when asked whether he thought it was a rising threat around the world. I think its a small group of people that have very, very serious problems, I guess, Trump said. If you look at what happened in New Zealand, perhaps thats the case. I dont know enough about it yet. But its certainly a terrible thing. Trump was asked about white nationalism and the shooting deaths of 49 people at mosques in Christchurch after he formally vetoed Congress resolution to block his declaration of a national emergency at the Mexico border. His veto, aimed at freeing money to build more miles of a border wall against illegal immigration, is expected to survive any congressional effort to overturn it. Questioned about the accused gunmans reference to him, Trump professed ignorance. I didnt see it. I didnt see it, he said. But I think its a horrible event ... a horrible, disgraceful thing and a horrible act. The man accused of the shootings, whose name was not immediately released, left behind a lengthy document that outlined his motivations. He proudly stated that he was a 28-year-old Australian white nationalist who hates immigrants and was set off by attacks in Europe that were perpetrated by Muslims. In a single reference, he mentioned the US president. Were/are you a supporter of Donald Trump? was one of the questions he posed to himself. His answer: As a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose? Sure. As a policy maker and leader? Dear god no. The White House immediately denounced the connection. But the mention from the suspect, who embraced Nazi imagery and voiced support for fascism, nonetheless cast an uncomfortable light on the way that the president has been embraced by some on the far right. Trump, who as a candidate proposed a ban on all Muslims entering the United States, has drawn criticism as being slow to condemn white supremacy and related violence. After a 2017 clash between white nationalists and anti-racist protesters in Charlottesville, Virginia, that left one demonstrator dead, Trump said there were very fine people on both sides of the confrontation. He also did not immediately reject the support of David Duke, a former KKK Grand Wizard, during his presidential campaign. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., tied Trumps inflammatory language to the violence half a world away. Words have consequences like saying we have an invasion on our border and talking about people as though they were different in some fatal way, Blumenthal said on CNN. I think that the public discourse from the president on down is a factor in some of these actions. Former Texas Rep. Beto ORourke, who declared his Democratic candidacy for president this week, said, We must call out this hatred, this Islamophobia, this intolerance, and the violence that predictably follows from the rhetoric that we use. The White House, in comments before those remarks, rejected any link to Trump. Its outrageous to even make that connection between this deranged individual that committed this evil crime to the president who has repeatedly condemned bigotry, racism and made it very clear that this is a terrorist attack, Mercedes Schlapp, the White Houses director of strategic communication, told reporters. We are there to support and stand with the people of New Zealand. Trump himself telephoned New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, offering condolences, prayers and any help the U.S. might be able to provide. She told reporters she answered, My message was: to offer sympathy and love to all Muslim communities. Trumps hardline immigration rhetoric and calls to return America to its traditional past have been embraced by many on the conservative fringes, including some who troll online with racist imagery, as well as white supremacists who have looked to engage in violence. In Florida, Cesar Sayoc, who had decorated his van with Trump propaganda, was accused of mailing explosives last fall to Democratic Party officials and media members, many of whom had been criticized by the president. The president said Sayoc had been insane long before he became a Trump fan. Last month, a former Coast Guard official was accused of stockpiling weapons in a plot to kill media members and liberal politicians as part of a plan to transform the US into a white ethno-state. It took more than a week for Trump to respond to the plot, which he deemed a shame. Many experts who track violent extremists have identified white nationalism as a growing threat in the US and abroad. In January, for example, the New York-based Anti-Defamation League said that domestic extremists killed at least 50 people in the US in 2018, up from 37 in 2017, and said, White supremacists were responsible for the great majority of the killings, which is typically the case. Some critics have accused US authorities of not dedicating adequate resources to stem a threat of domestic terrorism. However, The Washington Post reported last week that internal FBI data showed more domestic terror suspects were arrested last year than those allegedly inspired by international terror groups. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A former U.S. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A former U.S. Defence Intelligence Agency officer pleaded guilty to attempted espionage for China, the Justice Department said on Friday. The officer, Ron Rockwell Hansen, was accused of trying to transmit classified U.S. national defence information to China and receiving "hundreds of thousands of dollars" while illegally acting as an agent for the Chinese government. Hansen started working at the DIA, which specializes in military intelligence, in 2006 after his retirement from the U.S. Army, and held a top-secret security clearance for many years, according to the Justice Department. In 2014, a Chinese intelligence service recruited Hansen, the Justice Department said. FBI agents took Hansen into custody in June, when he was travelling to the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to take a connecting flight to China. He faces up to 15 years in prison. His sentencing will take place on Sept. 24. It was not immediately clear who was representing Hansen in his case. (Reporting by Makini Brice; Editing by Jonathan Oatis; and Alistair Bell) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A dissident organisation committed to overthrowing North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was behind a raid on the North Korean embassy in Spain last month, The Washington Post reported on Friday, quoting people familiar with the planning and execution of the mission. The newspaper, which did not further identify its sources, identified the group as Cheollima Civil Defence, which also goes by the name Free Joseon WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A dissident organisation committed to overthrowing North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was behind a raid on the North Korean embassy in Spain last month, The Washington Post reported on Friday, quoting people familiar with the planning and execution of the mission. The newspaper, which did not further identify its sources, identified the group as Cheollima Civil Defence, which also goes by the name Free Joseon. It said the group came to prominence in 2017 after evacuating a nephew of Kim from Macau when potential threats to his life surfaced. The Post's sources said the group did not act in coordination with any governments and U.S. intelligence agencies would have been especially reluctant to be involved given the sensitive timing of the mission ahead of a second summit between Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump in Hanoi from Feb. 27-28. According to Spanish media accounts, broadly confirmed by a Spanish Foreign Ministry source, a group of unidentified men entered North Korea's embassy in Madrid on Feb. 22, bound and gagged staff, and drove off four hours later with computers. There has been no claim of responsibility. The dissident group identified by the Washington Post could not be reached for comment and its purported website has made no mention of any involvement in the raid. On Feb. 25 the website posted a statement saying the group had "received a request for help from comrades in a certain Western country" and that "it was a highly dangerous situation but (we) responded." The group said an important announcement would be coming that week, but no details of any operation have been released. The Madrid embassy is where North Korea's chief working-level negotiator in talks with the United States, Kim Hyok Chol, was ambassador until 2017. Intelligence experts said computers and phones reportedly seized in the raid would be eagerly sought by foreign intelligence agencies given the information they might contain on Kim Hyok Chol and others. Asked about the Washington Post report, the U.S. State Department referred queries to the Spanish authorities. The CIA declined to comment. (Reporting by David Brunnstrom; Additional reporting by Josh Smith and Joyce Lee in Seoul; editing by Grant McCool) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. A right-wing extremist who filmed himself on a rampage that left 49 mosque-goers dead flashed a white power sign as he appeared in a New Zealand court on Saturday charged with murder. Christchurch: A right-wing extremist who filmed himself on a rampage that left 49 mosque-goers dead flashed a white power sign as he appeared in a New Zealand court on Saturday charged with murder. Australian-born 28-year-old Brenton Tarrant stood in the dock wearing handcuffs and a white prison smock, as the judge read a single murder charge against him. A raft of further charges were expected. The former fitness instructor and self-professed fascist occasionally turned to look at media present in court during the brief hearing that the public were excluded from for security reasons. Flanked by armed police he flashed an upside-down "okay" signal, a symbol used by white power groups across the globe. He did not request bail and was taken into custody until his next court appearance which is scheduled for 5 April. A short distance away, 39 people were being treated in hospital for gunshot wounds and other injuries inflicted in the massacre. They included a two-year-old boy and a four-year-old girl, who is in critical condition. Doctors at Christchurch hospital said they worked through the night in 12 operating theatres to do what they could to save the survivors. For many, the road to recovery will require multiple surgical procedures and many survivors said the mental scars may never fully heal. The attack on the Al Noor and Linwood mosques has been labelled terrorism by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and is thought to be the deadliest attack directed against Muslims in the West in modern times. Outside the court, the son of 71-year-old Afghan victim Daoud Nabi demanded justice for his late father, who believed New Zealand to be a "slice of paradise." "It's outrageous, the feeling is outrageous," he said. "It's beyond imagination." Ardern said the victims came from across the Muslim world, with Turkey, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Malaysia among the countries rendering consular assistance. One Saudi citizen and two Jordanians were among the dead, while five Pakistani citizens were missing. Grief and shock The attack has prompted an outpouring of grief and deep shock in this usually peaceful and hospitable country, which prides itself on welcoming refugees fleeing violence or persecution. Although shops were shuttered and many decided to stay at home, Christchurch residents piled bouquets of flowers at a makeshift memorial near the Al Noor mosque, many accompanied with handwritten letters laden with sadness and disbelief. "I am so sorry that you were not safe here. Our hearts are breaking for your loss," read one of the notes marked with a string of x-kisses. Ardern, who arrived in Christchurch on Saturday, said the shooter was not on any watchlist and did not have a criminal record. "The offender was in possession of a gun licence" obtained in November 2017, and he started purchasing the weapons the following month, she said. Two semi-automatic weapons, two shotguns and lever-action gun were used in the attacks. Two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were found in a car and neutralised by the military, while police raided a home in the southern city of Dunedin, where Ardern said the suspect was based. "While work is being done as to the chain of events that led to both the holding of this gun licence and the possession of these weapons, I can tell you one thing right now our gun laws will change," she said. The suspect documented his radicalisation and two years of preparations in a lengthy, meandering and conspiracy filled far-right "manifesto". He live-streamed footage of himself going room-to-room, victim to victim, shooting the wounded from close range as they struggled to crawl away in the main Christchurch mosque. Thirty-six minutes after the police received the first call, Tarrant was in custody. Commissioner Mike Bush hailed the "absolute bravery" of both police and members of the public "who put themselves in harm's way" to apprehend the suspect. "Their intervention may very likely have saved further lives." Two other people remain in custody, although their link to the attack is not clear. One man, an 18-year-old Alexander Bryan has been charged with incitement. Another person who was earlier arrested was said to be a member of the public carrying a firearm who was trying to help. 'Horrible massacre' Tributes to the victims poured in from around the world. US president Donald Trump condemned the "horrible massacre" in which "innocent people have so senselessly died", but denied that the problem of right-wing extremism was widespread. Speaking in Sydney, Australian prime minister Scott Morrison described the gunman as "an extremist, right-wing, violent terrorist". New South Wales police commissioner Mick Fuller said police had visited Tarrant's childhood home in the town of Grafton, north of Sydney, and spoken to family members as part of their investigation. The attack has prompted searching questions about whether right-wing extremism has been treated with enough seriousness by Western governments. Ali Soufan, a former high-ranking FBI counter-terrorism agent, said the threat needs to be treated with the same seriousness as jihadist violence. "We are in the midst of a surge of right-wing terrorism that has been metastasising in plain sight while generating only a muted response from domestic counter-terrorism authorities," he said. Ardern said she would be reviewing events leading up to the attack to see how the suspect went unnoticed by authorities. "The individual charged with murder had not come to the attention of the intelligence community, nor the police, for extremism," she said. "I have asked our agencies this morning to work swiftly on assessing whether there was any activity on social media or otherwise, that should have triggered a response. That work is already underway." By Alexis Akwagyiram LAGOS (Reuters) - Twenty people were killed in Wednesday's collapse of a four-storey building containing a primary school in Nigeria's commercial capital Lagos and 45 others survived, the state health commissioner said on Friday. By Alexis Akwagyiram LAGOS (Reuters) - Twenty people were killed in Wednesday's collapse of a four-storey building containing a primary school in Nigeria's commercial capital Lagos and 45 others survived, the state health commissioner said on Friday. Commissioner Jide Idris gave no details of how many children were among the dead but he said 10 children and four adults were still receiving medical help. Building collapses are frequent in Nigeria, Africa's most populous country, where regulations are poorly enforced and construction materials are often substandard. Lagos, Nigeria's most populous city with around 23 million inhabitants, is particularly densely populated in poorer areas where multiple families occupy small spaces to save money on rent. "Twenty corpses were brought to Lagos state mortuaries from the site, 45 survivors were received and were managed by government health facilities," Idris said in a statement. Residents had said the school alone had around 100 pupils, although that figure was questioned by emergency officials. It was not clear how many children were in the building when the building collapsed. The rescue effort ended on Thursday after emergency officials said there was nobody left under the building. But on Friday in the Ita-Faji area of the Lagos Island district where the accident happened and only piles of bricks and twisted metal lay where the building once stood, some locals questioned the death toll. "It is more than that. I'm thinking there are people who are still under the ground," said Bukola Bejide, a local businesswoman who sells groceries, speaking a few metres from the site. Other people standing beside her nodded in agreement. Across Lagos Island buildings deemed to be unsafe were surrounded by tape and demolition work was under way, forcing dozens of people to find elsewhere to live. People gathered outside a tent set up beside the accident site to receive food, clothing and help to arrange temporary accommodation from community groups working with Lagos state government. Residents said there had been a number of building collapses in the area over the last few years. Some buildings deemed by state government officials to be uninhabitable were renovated by landlords seeking rent, they said. Lagos Governor Akinwuni Ambode, who visited the site hours after the building collapsed, said the school had been set up illegally and buildings in the area had been undergoing structural testing prior to the accident. He also said there will be a full investigation into the incident. (Reporting by Alexis Akwagyiram; Additional reporting by Nneka Chile and Afolabi Sotunde; Writing by Paul Carsten and Alexis Akwagyiram; Editing by Angus MacSwan and James Dalgleish) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. The US-China spat soured negotiations on a resolution on Afghanistan, forcing the council to adopt a temporary rollover of the UN mission there for six months instead of a year. United Nations: The United States on Friday clashed with China at the UN Security Council over Beijing's Belt and Road initiative, saying the infrastructure investment scheme had "known problems" with corruption and debt distress. The US-China spat soured negotiations on a resolution on Afghanistan, forcing the council to adopt a temporary rollover of the UN mission there for six months instead of a year. Beijing's flagship initiative, which aims to develop new trade routes through major infrastructure projects such as airports and roads, has been described by critics as Chinese expansionism. US Acting Ambassador Jonathan Cohen accused China of demanding that the resolution highlight the Belt and Road initiative "despite its tenuous ties to Afghanistan and known problems with corruption, debt distress, environmental damage, and lack of transparency." Cohen bluntly accused China of holding UN negotiations hostage "by making it about Chinese national political priorities rather than the people of Afghanistan." China shot back, with Deputy Ambassador Wu Haitao telling the council that Cohen's remarks were "at variance with facts and fraught with prejudice." "This is an initiative of economic cooperation aimed at achieving common development and prosperity. It has nothing to do with geopolitics," said Wu. The sharp exchange came as the United States and China are locked in negotiations aimed at ending a trade war that has left businesses struggling with tariffs on billions of dollars in two-way commerce. The UN resolution on the Afghanistan mission has contained language on cooperation with the Belt and Road initiative since 2016. The US insistence that the call for cooperation with the Chinese initiative be dropped from the resolution followed sharp criticism last year by Vice President Mike Pence who said the program had left countries drowning in debt. The United States has sought to challenge the Chinese scheme but the initiative continues to draw support. On Monday, Italy said it would sign a memorandum of understanding to officially support the Belt and Road Initiative. More than 123 countries have signed agreements to cooperate with China under the program, Wu said. If the fresh efforts by the US, France and the UK does not end up in the formal designation of Masood Azhar, the three permanent members are planning to soon move a resolution for his listing in the most powerful wing of the UN which would be preceded by an open debate on the issue Washington: The US, France and the UK are believed to be in intense "good faith" discussions with China to arrive at a "compromise", including on the language on the UN designation of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist, according to people familiar with the matter. On Wednesday, China blocked for the fourth consecutive time a resolution at the UN Security Council Committee on designating Azhar, head of the JeM terror group, as a global terrorist. The proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council was moved by France, the UK and the US on 27 February, days after a suicide bomber of the JeM killed at least 42 CRPF soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, leading to a flare-up in tensions between India and Pakistan. If the fresh efforts by the US, France and the UK does not end up in the formal designation of Azhar, the three permanent members are planning to soon move a resolution for his listing in the most powerful wing of the UN which would be preceded by an open debate on the issue, according to people familiar with the matter. India had expressed disappointment over the Chinese stance and the original co-sponsors of the resolution had warned they will consider "other actions" to achieve their goal. While the internal consultations of the Security Council committee remain private, this time several Council members, frustrated at China's unreasonable stance to protect a terrorist, privately spoke to the media the negative role being played by Beijing. "If China continues to block this designation, responsible member-states may be forced to pursue other actions at the Security Council. It shouldn't have to come to that," a Security Council diplomat told PTI on Wednesday in an unusually tough warning to Beijing. In the last 50 hours, it is believed that the original sponsors of the Azhar resolution are having intense "good faith" consultations with China on what many familiar with the matter describe as a "compromise". This probably means Azhar would be designated as a global terrorist by the UN body, but the language of designation would include a language acceptable to China. China is believed to have suggested "certain changes" in the language of the terrorist designation. The US, Britain and France are believed to be currently looking at the suggestions. It is understood that there is a back-and-forth exchange of texts on the matter. The three countries have indicated that they are willing to accommodate Chinese request for changes in the language as long as it does not change the substance of the resolution and it ends up designating Azhar as a UN global terrorist. But unlike in the past, the US, France, Britain and other members of the Security Council are not willing to wait for long to conclude their discussion with China. It is learnt that China has been informed by these countries that they are seriously looking for other options, in particular, an open debate followed by a vote on a resolution to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, pretty soon. Not months, not weeks but days. This is what Beijing has been conveyed. At the same time, officials of these countries believe that China this time has been much more co-operative than in the past. But in case at any point the three countries get a feeling that China is not doing a good faith negotiation on the "compromise formula" that is being negotiated, they are ready with the other move. China, after its decision to put a technical hold on the resolution, has invited criticism and its stance has also resulted in outrage in India. Beijing would have to calculate the risk of being isolate globally on the fight against terrorism or signing off to a compromised language that would designate Azhar as a global terrorist, since except China, all other UNSC members supported the resolution. Getting Chinese support to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, at the UN, in any format, would be considered as a terrific accomplishment. The very fact that there have been discussions going on between China and the US, Britain and France, is considered as a positive development. Those familiar with China's working pattern are still not confident and that's the reason why they are seriously working on other options including an open debate in the Security Council, where Beijing might find it difficult to defend a terrorist in public. Following a shooting at a mosque in New Zealand's Christchurch, in which 49 Muslims were killed, a Detroit-based Twitter user named Khaled Beydoun started a thread on Twitter to commemorate the victims. Following a shooting at a mosque in New Zealand's Christchurch, in which 49 Muslims were killed, a Detroit-based author and professor named Khaled Beydoun took to Twitter to pay a unique tribute to the victims. Beydoun is the author of American Islamophobia: Understanding the Roots and Rise of Fear. He started a thread on Twitter, and said he was "keen on knowing the names, remembering the stories and celebrating the lives of the victims." The New Zealand government has not officially named any of the victims. I dont know the terrorists name. Nor do I care to know it. Im keen on knowing the names, remembering the stories and celebrating the lives of the victims. All 49. Please join me. #49lives pic.twitter.com/nRZpaxSRgv Khaled Beydoun (@KhaledBeydoun) March 16, 2019 He further asked users to submit names and pictures of the victims, and posted a few on his own. "The Hero" | Say his name: Naeem Rashid. One of the 49 #ChristChurch victims. After he witnessed his son Taha shot and killed, and men and women slain around him, he lunged at the terrorist with his bear hands. He was courageous until the very end - and died a Hero. pic.twitter.com/Pwmc3l8rI9 Khaled Beydoun (@KhaledBeydoun) March 16, 2019 "The Youngest" | Muca Ibrahim was only 3 years old. He was killed by terrorist in #ChristChurch, and is the youngest of the 49 slain Muslims. He has his whole life ahead of him. Remember him like this, smiling wide, with his brother Abdi. pic.twitter.com/kzjfq1plSA Khaled Beydoun (@KhaledBeydoun) March 16, 2019 The Heroine II | Hosna Ara Parvin with her husband Farid and baby daughter. Farid was bound to a wheelchair, and Hosna saved his life on the day of the #ChristChurch massacre by jumping in front of him, and taking the gunshots. Shes a hero. Remember her like this. pic.twitter.com/8t8tlZ28Ef Khaled Beydoun (@KhaledBeydoun) March 16, 2019 The Future Doctor | This is Haroon Mahmood, a Pakistani PhD candidate. Haroon left Pakistan to pursue an education at Lincoln Univeristy in #ChristChurch. This is him standing with his two children, not long before he was killed on Friday. 1/49. #49lives pic.twitter.com/8I6K026wwn Khaled Beydoun (@KhaledBeydoun) March 16, 2019 "Baby Brother" | Abdullahi Dirie was only 4 years old. He was 1/49 killed in #ChristChurch, and one of the youngest. He was in the mosque with his dad and four siblings. His family members survived, but little Abdullahi was killed inside of the Mosque in #NewZealand. Khaled Beydoun (@KhaledBeydoun) March 16, 2019 The Dreamer | Khaled Mustafa is Syrian refugee. He fled from ISIS and war torn Syria, with his family, to pursue a new life in #NewZealand. He was shot dead while praying. He secured a better life for his family, but wont be there to realize that dream with them. pic.twitter.com/qcJYuX2sbN Khaled Beydoun (@KhaledBeydoun) March 16, 2019 The Heroine | This is Ara Parvin, 42. She and her husband, Farid, left Bangladesh and settled in #NewZealand in 1994. Years ago, Farid grew ill, and had to use a wheelchair. On Friday, as the terrorist aimed at Farid, Ara jumped in front of the bullets. He lived. She died. pic.twitter.com/N1PfVfn1ad Khaled Beydoun (@KhaledBeydoun) March 16, 2019 The thread garnered a lot of support on Twitter, including from writer and activist Shaun King as US Democrat Ilhan Omar. "Insh'Allah I will keep adding to this thread and profiling the other victims. Brother Shaun King is doing the same. They and their families deserve this," Beydoun tweeted as part of the thread. New Zealand terrorist attack: It is this European colonisation that around the world produced gun laws that allowed people, meaning White settlers, to keep firearms, ostensibly for their defence I learned about the New Zealand shooting massacre on Friday morning, while listening to news on the radio. The reporter was speaking to local Muslims about their reaction and the voices were distinctly South Asian. A newspaper report on Saturday morning says that nine Indians are among those missing after the attack, including men from Ahmedabad and Hyderabad. After the shooting report, the commentary (this is BBCs Radio 4, which I listen to every morning) turned to another story. The first piano ever to come to Australia had been located and sent to England for repairs. Why England? Because that is where it was made. It came to Australia in January 1788 with 11 ships that are known as the First Fleet. These were the original vessels from Portsmouth in England, that brought over a thousand Europeans to Australia, beginning its colonisation. This is not that long ago: it is after the last Battle of Panipat between the Marathas and the Afghans, long after the fall of the Mughal empire. The British first came to Surat in 1608 and so Australia and New Zealand are very new in the colonisation process. This is of interest because of the beliefs that the shooter in New Zealand has about immigration and foreigners. In a note he wrote before the massacre, he says his motive for murdering people is to directly reduce immigration rates to European lands. He considers New Zealand and Australia (where he was born) to be European lands, though Europeans are themselves immigrants. The colonisation of Australia and New Zealand brought great misery to its original inhabitants, called the Aborigines (with whom we Indians have genes in common). Aboriginal means something existing from the earlier times, just like we refer to India's most ancient inhabitants as Adi-vasis (eternal-inhabitants, or those inhabiting the land since an eternity). The aboriginal population was destroyed by the European colonists, who ruthlessly took over their lands and brought diseases from the mainland with them. The takeover came with its own names. Victoria, New South Wales, Wellington, Auckland, Queensland are names we are familiar with today. They are ones that the colonisers imposed on the land they occupied against the will of the aborigines. New Zealand was annexed in 1840 by the British from the local Maori population. The Europeans inflicted severe cruelty on the aborigines even after they conquered their land. Under acts of their Parliament, they began officially separating aboriginal children from their parents. This is known today as the Stolen Generations. This policy continued into the 1960s. Even today the aboriginal people face discrimination, including in the criminal justice system. All of this is hidden under their cheerful and sporty demeanour which supposedly reflects the Aussie spirit (of course, these days we also know Aussie spirit through its cheats). What I have written above is common knowledge and every Australian and New Zealander will be familiar with it. European colonisation devastated populations on the other side of the world also and if today we are familiar with names like Canada, Virginia, Georgia, Washington, America, Bolivia and Argentina, it is because foreigners conquered these lands and imposed names on them. It is this European colonisation that around the world produced gun laws that allowed people, meaning White settlers, to keep firearms, ostensibly for their defence. The Prime Minister of New Zealand said after the massacre that she would change the countrys gun laws. This will of course help prevent future violence. It is astonishing that nations allow civilians to purchase and keep high powered rifles with large magazine capacities whose only purpose is war. Americas resistance to gun control has inflicted the greatest massacres on its population, including its children. All this is why it is so remarkable that the shooter Brenton Tarrant should feel that it is only others who are immigrants and imposing on his culture. It may interest readers to know that the word Tarrant, which is of British origin, shares the same root as the word trespasser, meaning someone who enters without permission, which in Hindi is called ghuspethiya. Tarrant says that he does not hate people if they live in their own country, but he had a problem with invaders who colonise other peoples lands. However, he also wrote that the origins of my language is European, my culture is European, my political beliefs are European, my philosophical beliefs are European, my identity is European and, most importantly, my blood is European. Perhaps he should have moved to Europe if he felt so strongly, instead of taking out the problems of his identity crisis on innocent people. But we should ask ourselves why the descendants of violent conquerors and colonisers still claim victimhood. It is not natural. The fact is that this sentiment, against immigrants and particularly against Muslims, is produced by the climate of hatred and bigotry that we see all around us. 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"Pumped Up Kicks" is also a song about a kid preparing to shoot his classmates at school. "All the other kids with the pumped up kicks," says the chorus, "you'd better run, better run, outrun my gun You'd bettter run, better run, faster than my bullet. Maybe we're desensitized by the almost absurdly violent first-person-shooter video games so many kids spend their afternoons playing. Maybe naming the song after fancy sneakers instead of the weaponry creates enough emotional distance. Or maybe we figure as I initially did that it's just pop music, and its ear-candy qualities trump whatever the point of view might be. But after looking closely at the song's lyrics and listening to it many extra times, I have come to agree that this song is more deserving of a push away than the warm embrace it has mostly received. I don't for a moment fear that my kids or yours are one ill-considered pop song away from going bad, but I'd just rather not have their environment include a school shooting treated with all the gravity of bubble-gum pop with whistling! "Pumped Up Kicks" has been very, very good to Foster the People, the L.A.-based trio who released it as their first single. From nowhere, they've gone to playing Lollapalooza this summer. They're on a mostly sold-out tour right now, scheduled to hit Chicago's Riviera Theatre Wednesday night. They'll play "Saturday Night Live" this coming weekend, with Ben Stiller hosting. And the tune has been top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart since Aug. 27, No. 3 for the last five weeks. It's a nice story, almost. Mark Foster, the group's Cleveland-bred frontman, did not respond to an e-mail request to address some of the questions raised by the song. But in interviews, when the song's dark subject matter has been an issue, he's seemed able to satisfy questioners by referencing Truman Capote's "In Cold Blood." He has said that he wrote the song because he's been troubled by school shootings, telling, for instance, NPR Music's "World Cafe" that he wondered "what would it be like to be inside of a kid's head that's a teenager and is basically losing his mind." Yet, when that interview went up on the NPR website, the introductory text reduced the song to "a breezy summer jam with a subtly sinister edge." I'm not sure what's subtle about "outrun my gun" or the verse in which the protagonist appears to shoot his dad. But acknowledging that the song is dark is about as far as most critics who have reviewed "Torches," Foster the People's debut album, have come to engaging with "Pumped Up Kicks." I'll go further and say that while I will certainly stand up for Foster's right to try such a thing, and while I don't doubt his sincerity, his reach simply exceeds his grasp. Foster is no Katy Perry, brazenly exploiting teen sexuality for the sake of "controversy." But you can't do "In Cold Blood" even a Cliff's Notes version of "in Cold Blood" in two cryptic verses and eight repeats of the chorus. There's just not enough information there. You might argue that the tune's cheeriness is a symbol of just how far off the deep end this kid has gone. That would be a more reasonable interpretation, though, if Foster were more in control of his lyrics: if he were not, for instance, switching from third to first person in the few lines he's written or offering as the only possible bits of explanation for the shootings sneaker envy and the tidbit that "Daddy works a long day." Contrast that with Bob Geldof and the Boomtown Rats' "I Don't Like Mondays," the 1980s hit about a school shooting that made the dark "reason" the girl gave into its title and chorus and artfully contrasted that with the people around her trying to find out why, really. Popular music, to be sure, is full of murder songs, many of them classics: Johnny Cash "shot a man in Reno just to watch him die." Robert Earl Keen's oft-recorded country rave-up "The Road Goes On Forever" tells of a drug dealer who shoots a cop so his girlfriend can get away. Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" opens with a son confessing murder. But these songs have consequence, both narrative and musical weight. Cash's character is in Folsom Prison at the time he sings, with a hard case of the blues. The Keen character, in the final verse, "is going to the chair." The "Bohemian Rhapsody" protagonist pours out his regret operatically. "Pumped Up Kicks," by contrast, introduces its star as "a cowboy kid" with "a rolled cigarette hanging out (of) his mouth." We don't know why he's planning to do what he does, only that the songs temporary narrator sees him as sort of glamorous. And, if we bother to think beyond the song's 4 minutes and 16 seconds, we know that he will bring a lifetime of agony to people who have done nothing to deserve it. That just doesn't feel very pop. sajohnson@tribune.com Twitter: @StevenKJohnson "360"> Canadian based Enbridge Inc. ( ENB -0.01% ) is offering investors a 6.1% yield. U.S. midstream player Magellan Midstream Partners, L.P. ( MMP -0.29% ) provides a distribution yield of 6.6%. Before you decide to go with the higher-yielding midstream name, here, you should dig in a little more. There are some big differences between these two key industry players that you need to understand. More than just yield Enbridge, with a $75 billion market cap, is one of the largest energy companies in North America. Although it hails from Canada, its diversified collection of assets spans the continent. It also owns a collection of power-generation assets, pushing its reach beyond the typical midstream company domain and further increasing its diversification. It is -- and this is perhaps understating it a little bit -- an industry Goliath. Magellan weighs in at a far more modest $13 billion market cap. It is a sizable entity, but it certainly doesn't have the scale and reach of Enbridge. That's not a bad thing, as it can sustain growth with smaller capital projects (it takes material investments to move the needle at Enbridge). Magellan is also strictly focused on the midstream space. And it's important to note that Magellan is a master limited partnership, which comes with notable tax considerations and makes it an inappropriate option for tax-advantaged retirement accounts. So, there are important scale, reach, and structure differences here that need to taken into consideration before investing. But there's another big-picture topic that needs to be carefully examined, too. Check out the latest earnings call transcript for Enbridge and Magellan Midstream Partners. Taking some risks Enbridge and Magellan have both been around for a long time. And they both have impressive histories of rewarding income investors well. Enbridge, for example, has increased its dividend for 22 consecutive years. And while Magellan's 18 years of annual hikes falls short of that mark, it has instituted an increase every quarter since going public in 2001. The two basically stand toe to toe on this one. (Note that Enbridge pays in Canadian dollars, so the amount U.S. investors receive will vary with exchange rates.) However, there's a key difference in how these two companies have gone about achieving these results. Magellan is among the most conservative midstream players around, focusing on slow and steady growth over time. It is a tortoise that makes sure to keep risk as low as possible. For example, its debt to EBITDA ratio is around 2.5 times, near the low end of the industry. In fact, it recently rejiggered its capital raising plans with the goal of ensuring that distribution coverage remained at 1.2 times to reassure investors about the safety of its distribution. Magellan is a good option for risk-averse investors. Enbridge, on the other hand, has taken a slightly more aggressive approach, using leverage to a greater degree. The company's debt-to-EBITDA ratio is currently around 6.7 times, near the high end of the industry. While that ratio has been on the downswing since Enbridge bought a large midstream peer and simplified its business (selling assets and buying in a number of its subsidiary public entities), it has long made greater use of leverage than Magellan. To be fair, Enbridge has done a decent job of managing its leverage over time. And it has notably avoided the disbursement blow-ups that have hit midstream peers, such as Kinder Morgan, Buckeye Partners, and Plains All American, which attempted similar simplification moves, made aggressive use of leverage, or both. The proof is in the continued upward march on its dividend, which has grown at an annualized rate of 12.4% over the past decade. However, Magellan is no slouch, here; its distribution increased at an annualized rate of 10.9% over the same span despite its more conservative use of leverage. But the past is the past. Going forward, Magellan is projecting distribution growth in the mid single-digits. Enbridge is projecting dividend growth of around 10% through 2020. That helps explain at least a portion of the yield difference, with investors giving a premium valuation to Enbridge because of its higher dividend growth prospects. If you are focused on dividend growth, Enbridge has the clear edge. What are you looking to achieve? At the end of the day, both Enbridge and Magellan have proven to be well-run midstream players and would each be a fine investment option. However, there is a fundamental difference in how they go about their operations. One of the biggest issues to look at is their use of leverage. If you are a conservative investor looking to maximize current income, then Magellan is likely to be the better call. For investors willing to take on a little more risk in exchange for larger dividend increases, then Enbridge could be the right fit. Neither is a bad choice, but they are definitely not interchangeable options. If you're interested in investing in exchange-traded funds (ETFs), you have probably heard something about expense ratios. If you want to learn more about ETF expense ratios, then you're in the right place. An ETF's expense ratio indicates how much of your investment in a fund will be deducted annually as fees. A fund's expense ratio equals the fund's operating expenses divided by the average assets of the fund. Typical ETF expense ratios are less than 1%. That means that, for every $1,000 you invest, you pay less than $10 a year in expenses. How the ETF expense ratio works Let's say you invest $100,000 in the Horizon Kinetics Inflation Beneficiaries ETF (NYSEMKT:INFL), which, according to the fund's fact sheet, has a current expense ratio of 0.85%. You will pay $850 to the fund's manager this year and increasing amounts in following years, assuming the value of your investment continues to grow. If the fund's value increases by 10% annually for the next 10 years, then your initial investment will be worth $259,374. Over the 10 years, you would pay fees totaling $19,360. Over time, an ETF's expense ratio can significantly impact your investment returns. An annual fee of 1% or less may not seem like much, but, as the example illustrates, it becomes increasingly impactful over time. Every dollar that comes out of your account in fees is a dollar whose value is not compounded for all future years. Considering some ETFs have expense ratios close to zero, you have attractive options. As for the logistics, the fee you annually owe to the ETF's manager, as determined by the prevailing expense ratio and value of your shares, is automatically deducted from your investment account. How to find the best ETF expense ratio High fees can turn any investment into a poor one. A good rule of thumb is to not invest in any fund with an expense ratio higher than 1% since many ETFs have expense ratios that are much lower. Also, ETFs tend to be passively managed, which keeps the management fee low. Because many ETFs have low expense ratios, only investing in those with very attractive expense ratios doesn't limit your investment options by much. Once you exclude any ETFs that are actively managed, you can consider what kind interests you and diversify your fund selections among many different sectors, company sizes, and indexes. Use an ETF screener With so many ETFs available in the market, you can find those with the best expense ratios in categories that interest you by using an ETF screener. A simple web search produces several options, and brokerages can also screen the market for you based on your preferences. Let's say you want to invest in a dividend-focused ETF with a low expense ratio. Using an ETF screener tool, you can search for ETFs with dividend yields greater than, say, 2%. Your search returns 40 results, with expense ratios ranging from 0.16% to 3.90%. You may be tempted to simply choose the fund with the lowest expense ratio, but a better approach is to conduct further research. (However, you can safely exclude from consideration the fund with the 3.90% expense ratio.) An ETF can have a low expense ratio but not be right for you, based on one or several factors. By reading an ETF's fact sheet or its prospectus, you can verify that the fund in practice follows a strategy that appeals to you. Funds can be included in search results by mistake, may use more leverage than you like, or may be not appealing in some other way. Reading a fund's prospectus can also tell you whether its advertised expense ratio is artificially low. Many funds offer fee rebates during their first few years to attract investors, but those rebates expire, and long-term investors are faced with permanently higher fees. Also check that the range of expense ratios associated with the type of ETF that interests you is competitive. For dividend-focused ETFs, the lowest available expense ratio is 0.16%, while other types of ETFs have expense ratios that are even lower. If a low ETF expense ratio is important to you, you can prioritize investment options such as index funds. What's a good ETF expense ratio? According to Morningstar, the weighted average expense ratio for ETFs in 2019 was 0.45%. That's just over half of what it was in 1999, and the downward trend is expected to continue. What constitutes a good expense ratio for an ETF is a matter of judgment. What's clear is that investors are not obligated to pay high fees to invest in ETFs, and they should prioritize investing only in those ETFs with competitive and stable expense ratios. It's been a turbulent ride for Alaska Air Group ( ALK -0.43% ) holders, with shares down 37% since the company's December 2016 purchase of Virgin America. Some of the issues have been due to rising fuel costs, which have plagued the entire industry. But Alaska Air has underperformed the other major U.S. airlines due to declining unit revenue as management focused on merger integration. Prior to the deal, Alaska Air had a strong reputation as an outperformer, and management has a plan in place to improve profitability and try to restore the airline's place among the highfliers. Here's the outlook for Alaska Air to determine whether the shares are a good buy today. Rebuilding margins Alaska Air management used the company's investor day in November to lay out a plan to generate pre-tax margins of between 13% and 15% in the years to come. That's well short of the 24% margin the company briefly enjoyed prior to the merger, but an improvement over the single-digit results of 2018. Check out the latest earnings call transcript for Alaska Air Group. Much of that plan involves reallocating assets and rolling out a new fare structure. Alaska Air is retrenching around its home Seattle hub, reversing course on a postmerger California expansion that put it in direct competition with Southwest Airlines and ate into yields. The company is also redeploying the Airbus A320 jets it inherited from Virgin America, taking them off transcontinental flights in favor of larger Boeing 737s with more premium seats. The Airbus jets are being reconfigured from Virgin America's style to Alaska's at a rate of about four to five jets per month, giving the airline additional revenue-producing seats while also offering more higher-fare seating options. The Airbus retrofit should be completed by the end of 2019, improving revenue per flight. Alaska Air has also sought to increase revenue via policy changes including increased baggage fees, and in late 2018 introduced a "Saver Fares" basic economy product. Saver Fares should help improve revenue segmentation by allowing the airline to offer discounted fares for price-sensitive travelers while also encouraging less price-sensitive customers to buy more expensive tickets, and management believes that when fully implemented, Saver Fares can increase revenue by $100 million annually. Challenges remain Unfortunately, Alaska Air is still flying into headwinds. Earlier this month the company lowered its first-quarter unit revenue range to up 1% to 2%, from up 2.5% to 4.5%, due to competitive pressures and weather issues in Seattle. The weather issues, which included about 1,100 flight cancellations, can be ignored by long-term investors, but the continued fare weakness is a concern. The bull case calls for fuel price increases to cause airlines to cut back on capacity, allowing for more pricing power. But after climbing steadily higher through much of 2018, jet fuel prices have fallen back to December 2017 levels, easing pressure on airlines to dramatically scale back capacity. It's hard to know how much to read into first-quarter numbers, given the importance of leisure traffic to Alaska Air and the typical weakness in leisure travel in the early months of the year. But if nothing else it appears the much-anticipated turnaround in 2019 is off to a slow start. Meanwhile, Southwest is finally selling tickets for flights to Hawaii, a full 16 months after announcing its intention to enter the market. That is going to increase pressure in what is already a competitive fare market. Is Alaska Air a buy? Alaska Air has an attractive route network and should see stronger margin improvement this year than most of its competitors. It has historically been a good operator and has a management team I trust. On the other hand, given the competitive dynamics of West Coast flying and Alaska's prudently conservative rollout of Saver Fares, I'm skeptical that the company will be able to achieve its 13%-to-15% margin target as quickly as it hopes. And Alaska Air isn't cheap, trading at 15 times earnings. If I were to buy shares of an airline today it would be Delta Air Lines, a company that has been out ahead of the competition in terms of innovation and is now past the transitional period that Alaska Air is currently going through. That said, with the Virgin America integration now largely complete, I expect Alaska Air by midyear will have solid momentum as all the hard work management has done in recent years begins to bear fruit. The margin improvement might take longer than expected, depending on competitive dynamics, fuel costs, and the success of rolling out Saver Fares. But for a long-term investor, I do expect Alaska Air to be an outperformer. A new military truck manufactured by Oshkosh (NYSE:OSK) is among the notable losers in the Pentagon's fiscal 2020 budget request as the Army rethinks its priorities and questions how many of the Humvee replacements it will need over the next half century. The Pentagon is requesting $1.6 billion to buy 4,090 Oshkosh-made Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs) for the Army and Marine Corps as part of a broader request for $14.6 billion in ground systems. The JLTV request is down from the $1.928 billion allocated for 5,900 vehicles in fiscal 2019 and below the $1.9 billion the military was expected to spend on the vehicles in fiscal 2020. The Army had originally planned to spend at least $28 billion over the next 20 years to acquire more than 49,000 JLTVs, replacing about half of the service's Humvee fleet. Although the spending was to be spread out over decades, it is still significant for Oshkosh, which currently generates about $8 billion annually in revenue. Check out the latest earnings call transcript for Oshkosh. Rethinking priorities Army officials admit that the reallocation of funding is likely not a one-time move. The Pentagon is in the process of shifting its attention away from fighting insurgencies in the Middle East and toward investment to prepare for a potential major power conflict with Russia or China. The Army is at the heart of the shift, with the service cancelling or scaling back nearly 100 programs over the next five years in order to free up $30 billion for higher-priority buys. The JLTV was designed specifically to address the shortcomings last-generation Humvees were found to have while operating in the desert, including the legacy vehicle's vulnerability to improvised explosive devices, but they are not central to a major-power war. Army Under Secretary Ryan McCarthy, during a press briefing on the budget request, noted that the Army currently has more than 100,000 vehicles in its fleet, saying there are limits on how many more are needed. "We're trying to hone in on the exact number of requirements of vehicles," McCarthy said. "That's why the buy will be truncated over time." Issues and design trade-offs The budget request comes less than a month after the JLTV was the subject of a Pentagon report that deemed it "not operationally suitable" due to a range of issues including "reliability, maintainability, training, manuals, crew situational awareness, and safety." The Pentagon's Director of Operational Test and Evaluation warned that the vehicle will likely require more maintenance than the Humvee, with a greater reliance on contractors to perform that maintenance due to its "poor manuals, and the challenges with troubleshooting the vehicle." The vehicle is also at a greater risk of being detected on the battlefield because of its larger size and greater noise signature, the report found. Many of the criticisms found in the report are teething errors common with sophisticated new platforms, and the Army has said the issues that were identified have already been addressed or are being addressed. Others, like the size and noise signature, are trade-offs needed to improve the vehicle's survivability compared to the Humvee. Oshkosh has said it does not expect the report to cause a delay in fielding the vehicle. The funding pullback almost certainly has nothing to do with the criticism, but the report does make clear the limits to the JLTV's effectiveness. In a time of competing budget priorities, those details can make a difference. Not a fatal hit Oshkosh's August 2015 victory over Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) and a General Dynamics (NYSE:GD)/AM General pairing to produce the JLTV was a big win in part due to the sheer volume of orders expected for the versatile vehicle. Defense is expected to account for about one-quarter of Oshkosh's fiscal 2019 revenue. And although defense margins, at 9.75%, trail the company's access equipment and emergency vehicle segments, profitability is expected to improve as the JLTV moves into full-rate production. The good news for Oshkosh is that the Pentagon is definitely going to buy a lot of JLTVs over the next two decades. The decision on exactly how many the Army and Marine Corps need is likely to fluctuate over time, but this program is not in danger of being eliminated. It's also worth noting that the Pentagon budget document is merely a proposal, and the actual allocation decisions will be made by Congress. The proposal is important because it reflects the current thinking of military leaders, but lawmakers historically have been very generous in allocating funds for ground vehicles beyond what is requested, and there is no reason to believe the JLTV will be any different. It seems likely the final budget will include some sort of a compromise, with the Army not scaling back the total number of vehicles it intends to buy but perhaps spreading out the purchase over more years to free up cash for other priorities. Oshkosh also hopefully will be able to offset any U.S. cutbacks with foreign sales, with a potential addressable market of 240,000 Humvees currently in service in 60 countries. Soldier on Shares of Oshkosh have underperformed the S&P 500 by about 500 basis points over the past year, largely on fears of a global economic slowdown that could eat into demand for its commercial and construction vehicles. The company's shares today trade at about 10.7 times earnings, less than half of its multiple in January 2018. The company trades at a discount to pure-play defense contractors like Lockheed Martin (16.7 times earnings) and General Dynamics (15.2 times), which seems appropriate given its ties to the construction cycle. But its defense business provides revenue diversity and should help it weather an economic slowdown. The JLTV cutback is disappointing, but it is not a fatal blow. Oshkosh shares remain an attractive option for a long-term investor looking for exposure to a diversified industrial. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 17) The Philippines withdrawal from the International Criminal Court has taken effect. Last year, President Rodrigo Duterte announced that he will pull the country out from the international courts jurisdiction following a case filed against him for in relation to his violent anti-drug campaign. The case was filed by lawyer Jude Sabio, who also represents self-confessed Davao Death Squad hitmen Edgar Matobato and Arturo Lascanas. Matobato and Lascanas had previously admitted to killing people in Davao City under Dutertes orders, when he was still city mayor. In April 2017, Sabio submitted to the ICC a 77-page document on the killings, formally called by the tribunal as a "communication." This was followed by supplemental information from opposition lawmakers Senator Antonio Trillanes and Magdalo party-list Rep. Gary Alejano. They said over a thousand were killed by the so-called Davao Death Squad, while thousands more were killed in the war on drugs since Duterte became president. A preliminary investigation was launched by ICC Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda. The case on the Philippines withdrawal from the ICC is still pending at the Supreme Court. Duterte, in his recent speeches, slammed Bensouda, and threatened to slap her if she would come to the Philippines. He also recently said that he is willing to face a death sentence from the ICC for his alleged crimes. The ICC does not implement a death sentence, and instead has life imprisonment as its maximum penalty. Should the ICC push with its investigation, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the government will not assist them. Bakit ka mag-co-cooperate kung walang jurisdiction? Were not bound by their rules, Panelo said in a press conference March 14. [Translation: Why will we cooperate when they have no jurisdiction?] Possible consequences Critics of the withdrawal said that withdrawing from the ICC would leave the Philippines vulnerable to future attacks, including a possible invasion from China. We can not bring President Xi Jinping to the ICC if he invades Pagasa or builds a military base in Scarborough shoal. We will lose that defense. We have no deterrent legally, Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio said during the Supreme Court oral arguments last October 9. The Commission on Human Rights said that the withdrawal is a reversal of the countrys commitment to international treaty obligations. It also casts doubt on the governments innocence in the recent spate of drug-related killings. The task before the Philippine government is to showbeyond wordsthat it is willing to investigate, prosecute, and punish perpetrators of alleged extrajudicial killings linked to the governments anti-drug war. The best way to move forward is to cooperate in ICCs preliminary examination and demonstrate its commitment in ending impunity, rather than blocking avenues in seeking justiceand perhaps reconsider its withdrawal from the Rome Statute as stronger sign of its dedication to the rule of law and human rights, CHR Spokesperson Jacqueline Ann de Guia said in a statement. The performances proved better than the opera itself, mezzo Martin the most imposing voice in the cast as Eva Crowley, the scale of Martins sound matched by the intensity of her delivery. Soprano Parks straightforward performance as Setsuko Kobayashi captured the innocence of youth a child caught up in terrible events. Baritone Magiera did the best he could with the one-dimensional character of Jim Crowley, but Magiera needed to summon more sound and fire. Finally, there was no doubting the emotional commitment of bass-baritone Ao Li in sound and gesture as Papa Kobayashi, nor mezzo Nelsen as Mama Kobayashi. And if it weakens the republic, it threatens our liberty. Because the republic is what keeps us free. The republic guarantees individual liberty and the Electoral College, and without that, we might as well decide everything by immediate popular vote and the rule of the mob and have the left coasts run the show. Whenever I go to prayer, Patel said, theres always a little whisper: Could it be here this time? Thats one of the reasons that hate crimes and terrorism that target a specific group are so poisonous and toxic. Because anybody in that group around the world has a voice in the back of their heads: Could it be here this time? Galveston, TX (77553) Today Some sunshine with a thunderstorm or two possible this afternoon. Near record high temperatures. High 78F. Winds S at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 30%.. Tonight Scattered thunderstorms this evening becoming more widespread overnight. Low 68F. Winds SSW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Students today are acutely aware of how hard it is to get into the best universities, so theyre preparing themselves earlier, many as early as junior high and some even in elementary school. But until they are in over their heads, it can be hard for them to understand how much is too much causing academic anxiety or extreme stress over their studies and what their breaking point will be, said Elizabeth Arbir, a guidance counselor at Crystal Lake Central High School in the far northwest suburb. The instant she opened her eyes--after two grueling days and nights of giving her neighbors' kitchen a facelift--Ruth Nelson was stunned by her own tarted-up living and dining rooms. "I love it," she blurted as TV cameras recorded the moment. Trouble was, she didn't. Advertisement A wall, once eggshell, was painted four-alarm scarlet. Two print sofas were obscured under hastily made off-white slipcovers with exposed seams stitched in black and red. A poster-size photo of her teenage son, Chris, showed only his chin; another just part of the family cat. Also baffling were 24 fluttering gold and silver paper squares pinned like insect specimens to said red wall. Designer Genevieve Gorder, a regular on "Trading Spaces," the wildly popular TV decorating show, called the look edgy on the episode that aired in November 2000. Advertisement Nelson, in a tone suggesting restraint, now calls it "odd" and completely unrelated to the rest of her home. Within three months, she and her family had undone much of Gorder's work: The red wall became dark green, the sofa slipcovers banished, the pictures of the cat, the chin and those bits of paper gone. The "Trading Spaces" format, modeled on a popular BBC show called "Changing Rooms," features two pairs of neighbors--each duo led by one of the show's eight regular designers--who are given 48 hours and $1,000 to make over a room in the others' home. At the end, each pair, eyes closed, is led into the new space for the climactic "reveal." Happy homeowners shriek and leap about. The disgruntled do nothing of the sort. In fact, it takes some Trading Spaces participants less than 48 hours to undo what was done to their homes. Once the crew decamps, they rip up, tear down, throw out or repaint the things they cannot abide. Cheap and cheesy Kim Riggles, the Alexandria, Va., neighbor who swapped rooms with Nelson, actually was thrilled with her new orange and country-quilt kitchen, although the seat-cushion tiebacks "pretty much disintegrated" immediately. Several months after her episode aired, she started writing follow-up interviews for the "Trading Spaces" Web site as a freelancer. She has gotten an earful. "The designers are working with cheaper products, cheaper fabrics to stay within budgets," she says. "I hear the word cheap a lot; I've heard cheesy. A lot of people are fussing about paint jobs that are not finished and about inferior carpentry." Nonetheless, notes Riggles, "It is my experience that only about 25 percent hate it or can't live with it, like my neighbor Ruth. The people who are really disgusted with it don't want any more to do with it." The show, on the TLC channel, which is owned by Silver Spring, Md.-based Discovery Communications, just finished its third season and 145th mutual makeover. From the start, calculated conflict has been a key to its success. Advertisement The chosen participants--who sincerely want decorating help for a lackluster interior and the chance to have a rollicking good time on camera--think they know what they're getting into when they apply, at the rate of 100 to 200 a day. They contact the show describing their problem room and what they hope a makeover will achieve. In preshow interviews, they can stipulate that they loathe dusty rose or modern minimalism, are allergic to sisal carpeting or want a space planned around the comfort and safety of a crawling baby. Anything goes But the show hardly seems to be about what homeowners want. It is about what the designers--and to a far lesser degree, their neighbors--want for them. And once the process is under way, nothing in the house is off-limits. If Traders don't want Grandma's braided rug sprayed purple or the legs sawed off an heirloom chair, they had better ship the items to the next county for the duration. And all participants sign a contract that essentially says tough luck if they don't like what they get. Elaine and Bernie Burke of Germantown, Md.--featured in a December 2001 episode--applied to participate in the show hoping for something "romantic." They got Asian Mod, including a curtain fashioned out of burlap that "stank up the whole bedroom." They pulled it down the next morning and now use it to protect flowers in their yard from frost. They also spent weeks trying to strip, steam and sand off tissue-paper sewing patterns that had been glued and shellacked to the walls of a "dressing room" nook. In frustration, they hid "the whole mess" under drywall mud, primer and paint. It should be noted, however, that although they hated the room, Elaine Burke called the experience "a blast. I would do it again," she said, "but only if I could pick the designer." Minority view Advertisement Only a "very small percentage" of participants are disgruntled, says Bronagh Hanley, communications director of TLC. "Most of the people know they could get something outrageous." Hanley sidesteps the question of whether dissension is sown deliberately to bump up ratings. "Honestly, the show has enough excitement and challenge on its own." Maybe so, but TLC now markets a $19.95, two-episode DVD unabashedly titled "They Hated It." Participants captured at the moment of truth react with variations on stunned silence, profanity, a walkout and worse. Spaces betrayed Responding to viewer demand, show publicist Don Halcombe says "we are planning to air a special at the end of the year. ...The working title is `They Hated It.'" Those who feel victimized may wish to call it "Betraying Spaces." Susie Molnar of Northampton, Pa., knew that her family room, with its baby-blue paneling and carpeting, needed serious help. But she found the red satin curtains chosen by designer Hildi Santo Tomas better suited to a brothel, and described the walls as being "the color of baby poop." Around a new sisal area rug, Santo Tomas left a border of toddler-hostile concrete. What's more, the sisal triggered allergies Molnar says she had discussed with the producers. But the designer, says Molnar, "could care less that I had young children, that allergies were a big issue for us." Advertisement There were other grievances. Glass bubbles and beads Molnar had made, plus hundreds of river stones, were used to pave the brick surround of the gas fireplace. "We had to chisel them off to get to the controls. Some of the glass bubbles fell off and there were shards on the floor. All I wanted was a room that was safe for my children. I cried all night." Molnar's husband, Steve, was unemployed, and there was no money for repairs. So her parents sprung for a wood laminate floor that he and the other "Trading Spaces" husband installed. As for the sisal, Susie Molnar demanded the show's crew take it away, and she negotiated a $300 payment for a non-allergenic rug. `Controversy makes good TV' Hanley says TLC has no firm reparations policy, but adjustments are sometimes made "on an ad hoc basis." "Our room was called `urbane,'" Susie Molnar says now. "There were a lot of curse words. I swore when the cameras were turned off. I was walking around the room blowing candles out. I have an 18-month-old. What were they doing with candles?" "They kept telling me," she says, " `Controversy makes good TV.'" Advertisement But nothing tops Jessie Stephens' explosive reaction to designer Hickson Smith's handiwork in Las Vegas in March. Before the first change was made, Stephens told relentlessly perky host Paige Davis, "If I had to walk into our living room and see brown, I would probably be sad." Sad? Try homicidal. During the reveal of newly cocoa walls, she grimaces to avoid weeping, then briefly leaves the room. She returns and is greeted by her smiling neighbor, which "made me mad. I didn't want to hit her. She went to hug me and I said, `It is not funny, it is not funny.'" In a blink, Stephens is shown wrestling the woman to the ground. "I just kind of went a little crazy for a second," she concedes. And what of the offending walls? Advertisement "Much as we still hate it--my husband more so--we are leaving it up because we both have big families who live far away. They told us, `Before you change it, we want to come see it.'" Riversong Horizon 10 and Horizon 20 power banks launched in India starting at Rs 2,199 News oi-Sandeep Sarkar For charging, the new power banks feature both microUSB as well as USB Type-C port. Riversong, a subsidiary of IMG Technology Group has launched a new series of power banks in India. Last year in November, the company had announced another power bank lineup called 'Ray'. The latest power bank lineup by the company is called Horizon and it comes with two new models. The Riversong Horizon power bank lineup comprises of Horizon 10 and Horizon 20 power banks with the key highlight being its compact form factor and fast charging support. As the name suggests, the Horizon 10 comes with 10,000mAH battery, whereas, the Horizon 20 packs a 20,000mAH battery. Using the Horizon 10 power bank, one can easily charge a smartphone with approx 3,500mAH battery up to 3 times. The Horizon 20 which offers a battery of 20,000mAH can charge big 4,000mAh batteries up to 5 times a day. Both the power banks are claimed to deliver a fast charging, however, we will like to review the device before verifying the claims. Both the Riversong Horizon 10 and the Horizon 20 power banks come with self-textured ID and offer supports 2.4A charging. For charging, the new power banks feature both microUSB as well as USB Type-C port and have smart current distribution and surge protection. While the Horizon 10 power bank weighs at 243 grams, the Horizon 10 weighs a bit more at 445 grams. In terms of pricing, the Riversong Horizon 10 carries a price tag of Rs 2,199 and the Horizon 20 will be retailing at Rs 2,999. Both the power banks will be available for purchase via e-commerce platforms online. 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 Accidental touch protection is not working on Samsung Galaxy S10 and S10+ News oi-Karan Sharma Samsung Galaxy S10 and S10+ facing issues with touch inputs when kept in a pocket. All you need to know. South Korean tech giant Samsung has recently launched its Galaxy S10 this year at its Galaxy Unpacked event. The smartphone comes with all the top-notch features and hardware, but it seems that the company has missed out on feature which disables the screen when a user placed the phone in his/her pocket. According to the latest report, it has been spotted that some users are complaining on Reddit about the accidental touch inputs on their Samsung Galaxy S10. However, the Galaxy S10 comes with a preinstalled option to prevent accidental touches. But it seems the company has missed out on enabling the built-in proximity sensor which is responsible for locking the device while it is in the users pocket. There are many posts on Reddit and Samsung Community forum. "I have an S10, and I keep my phone in my pocket with the screen towards my leg (since my leg is far less likely to damage the screen). The only issue with this is that I started feeling the 'fingerprint rejected' vibrations while the phone was in my pocket," users posted on Reddit. Moreover, it has also noted that this issue is not limited to the Galaxy S10, some of the Galaxy S10+ users are also witnessing the same issue. This problem is ultimately impacting the battery life of the Galaxy S10 smartphones. "Yeah, it appears the S10 does not have anything to prevent pocket touches. The proximity sensor is only active for things like calls so it has no way of knowing if it's in a pocket," another user commented on the same thread. Samsung has not acknowledged the issue so far, hope it will come up with a software update soon to fix this issue. Until then you can use an external case to get rid of accidental touch inputs. Source 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 woman suffered a wound to the ankle and was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center. The man was shot in the chest and was pronounced dead at 2:32 p.m at the same hospital, according to the Cook County medical examiners office. BSNL offers free broadband service to its landline users News oi-Priyanka Dua In order to get this services, BSNL user has to call toll free helpline 18003451504 from his / her registered mobile or from the landline number. State-run telecom operator Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has announced the launch of free broadband service for its landline users. In fact, the telecom operator has waived off the installation charges. In additions, users will get 5Gb of data per day download with speeds up to 10Mbps. In order to get this services, BSNL user has to call toll free helpline 18003451504 from his / her registered mobile or from the landline number. BSNL landline customers can now enjoy free high-speed home wifi solution. We have simplified the total process and now broadband activation is just one call away said Vivek Banzal Director CFA BSNL. "We want our customers to benefit from the technology upgradation we have done in the network and simplification of IT system, added Banzal. In addition, BSNL has announced "Free Voice Calling" within India for existing landline, broadband, and mobile customers. However, this offer is available on "Wings" service of BSNL. "Wings" is a combination of Voice over IP (VOIP) and landline service of BSNL. Under this service, a customer can make or receive calls using a BSNL "Wings" app on his/her mobile handset. Under this Wings app, BSNL is providing free international roaming from anywhere in the world. BSNL charges are only Rs.1.20/- per minute for calls using "Wings" from outside India (USA, UK, Germany, France etc) to India. International calling (Incoming/outgoing) are most affordable from "Wings". To avail this service, only a click at website i.e. www.bsnl.co.in is required to start the process of registration (by clicking "Book Wings"). After receiving a user name and password (PIN), the user can download the BSNL "Wings" App from Google store, input user name, and password and start making calls. The service is very useful, as a "Wings" user will never miss an incoming call in case he is hooked to Wi-Fi. Calls forwarded from any BSNL number to "Wings" number are totally free. 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 Today, the disgraced former Illinois governors family is reflecting on that day seven years ago. Patti Blagojevich, his wife and the daughter of former Chicago Ald. Dick Mell, took to Facebook this morning and made what looks to be another appeal to President Trump to commute her husbands prison sentence. She wrote: Today is another sad day on this painful journey as it marks 7 years that Rod has been away from home. President Trump was correct when he tweeted 7 years ago today: Its outrageous that Blagojevich goes to jail for 14 years when killers and sex offenders are out walking the streets. Is this justice I dont think so. We remain hopeful that better days are ahead, and we are grateful for the presidents support and kind words, going back to 2012. Former Defense Intelligence Officer Pleads Guilty to Attempted Espionage FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Friday, March 15, 2019 Ron Rockwell Hansen, 58, a resident of Syracuse, Utah, and a former Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) officer, pleaded guilty today in the District of Utah in connection with his attempted transmission of national defense information to the People's Republic of China. Sentencing is set for Sept. 24, 2019. Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers, U.S. Attorney John Huber for the District of Utah and Special Agent in Charge Paul Haertel of the FBI's Salt Lake City Field Office announced the charges. Hansen retired from the U.S. Army as a Warrant Officer with a background in signals intelligence and human intelligence. He speaks fluent Mandarin-Chinese and Russian. DIA hired Hansen as a civilian intelligence case officer in 2006. Hansen held a Top Secret clearance for many years, and signed several non-disclosure agreements during his tenure at DIA and as a government contractor. As Hansen admitted in the plea agreement, in early 2014, agents of a Chinese intelligence service targeted Hansen for recruitment and he began meeting with them regularly in China. During those meetings, the Chinese agents described to Hansen the type of information that would interest the Chinese intelligence service. During the course of his relationship with the agents of the Chinese intelligence service, Hansen received hundreds of thousands of dollars in compensation for information he provided them, including information he gathered at various industry conferences. Between May 24, 2016 and June 2, 2018, Hansen solicited from an intelligence case officer working for the DIA national defense information that Hansen knew the Chinese intelligence service would find valuable. Hansen agreed to act as a conduit to sell that information to the Chinese. Hansen advised the DIA case officer how to record and transmit classified information without detection, and explained how to hide and launder any funds received as payment for classified information. The DIA case officer reported Hansen's conduct to the DIA and subsequently acted as a confidential human source for the FBI. As Hansen further admitted in the plea agreement, Hansen met with the DIA case officer on June 2, 2018, and received from that individual documents containing national defense information that Hansen previously solicited. The documents Hansen received were classified. The information in the documents related to the national defense of the United States in that it related to United States military readiness in a particular region and was closely held by the United States government. Hansen reviewed the documents, queried the DIA case officer about their contents, and took written notes about the materials relating to the national defense information. Hansen advised the DIA case officer that he would remember most of the details about the documents he received that day and would conceal some notes about the material in the text of an electronic document that Hansen would prepare at the airport before leaving for China. Hansen intended to provide the information he received to the agents of the Chinese intelligence service with whom he had been meeting, and Hansen knew that the information was to be used to the injury of the United States and to the advantage of a foreign nation. Hansen pleaded guilty to one count of attempting to gather or deliver national defense information to aid a foreign government. The plea agreement calls for an agreed-upon sentence of 15 years. Special agents of the FBI, IRS, U.S. Department of Commerce, the Department of Defense, U.S. Army Counterintelligence, and the Defense Intelligence Agency were involved in the investigation. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert A. Lund, Karin Fojtik, Mark K. Vincent and Alicia Cook of the District of Utah, and Trial Attorneys Patrick T. Murphy, Matthew J. McKenzie and Adam L. Small of the National Security Division's Counterintelligence and Export Control Section. Prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Washington assisted with this case. Topic(s): National Security Component(s): National Security Division (NSD) Press Release Number: 19-231 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Army leaders discuss benefits, challenges with AI systems By Sean Kimmons, Army News Service March 14, 2019 SPRINGFIELD, Va. -- Only months old, the Army Artificial Intelligence Task Force has already started pilot projects to find ways to speed up security clearances and analyze imagery for military activity. Split between the National Capital Region and Carnegie Mellon University's National Robotics Engineering Center in Pittsburgh, the task force stood up in October as part of a recent push to increase AI efforts across the Defense Department. One of the first efforts they are exploring includes working with Army Analytics Group using personnel data to quickly identify risks in security clearances for Army personnel. The algorithms use "machine learning tools to speed up the risk management process that security clearance adjudicators are using," said Brig. Gen. Matthew Easley, the task force director. "It gives them evidence to allow them to make a decision much faster." Part of the newly-formed Army Futures Command, the task force plans to further develop other AI technology with academia and industry partners as it grows. It is now staffed at half of its projected size of about 16 personnel, the general said. The task force will also work closely with the new Joint Artificial Intelligence Center, the Army Combat Capabilities Development Command's Army Research Laboratory, and other DOD organizations. Established in June under the DOD chief information officer, the JAIC is the focal point of DOD's AI strategy and charged with providing a common vision to drive department-wide AI capability delivery. On Monday, the Army lab announced a $72 million five-year AI research cooperative agreement with Carnegie Mellon, which will lead a consortium of other universities that want to team up with the lab to accelerate research and development of AI, advanced algorithms and autonomous systems for national defense. Next year, Easley said the task force will likely search for ways to improve the Army's rapid prototyping process of future equipment, such as helping to quickly develop the software used in prototypes. In the second ongoing pilot project, the task force is testing an algorithm that could scour through imagery to find military objects of interest, such as tanks, belonging to near-peer competitors, he said. The algorithm is similar to facial recognition technology found in a smartphone camera, which can pick out the heads of people in a photo. "Your camera does a really good job at this," he said Tuesday after his panel discussion at an Army signal conference. "You use it every day." As near-peer competitors adapt, Col. Mark Orwat, who is assigned to the JAIC, said more funds will need to be invested internally toward AI technology. Today, there are over 500 AI projects across the DOD, Orwat said. Some of these investments are not AI systems themselves, but the foundations necessary to ensure DOD systems can manage massive amounts of data. Newer equipment will have more sensors than ever before and when Soldiers wear helmet cameras, for instance, those high-definition video feeds could overload systems, too. "The Soldier is going to [generate] massive data every time he or she swings their head around," Orwat said during the panel discussion. "We know data is going up on the battlefield. All these things are going to just pound the tactical network with data." The human brain has powerful learning abilities that machines cannot yet replicate. For example, Orwat said, someone could view an image and easily recognize it again at a later time. A machine would need to see that image thousands or millions of times before it could learn it. "You have to show a bunch of code 3.2 million pictures to train it to do what you do after one picture," Orwat said. "That's a lot of data." Common applications on smartphones -- such as social media, ride sharing or mapping systems -- already continually learn from users by observing their behaviors. "If you multiple that by a couple of million users every day, they get [to] big data very quickly and that's how they do it," Easley said. "We have to think hard about how we want to do that in the U.S. military across our service members, because we're just not collecting data from them in the same method." AI systems, though, may not always offer perfect solutions to help with decision making. Easley said it may require a different mindset when systems can only offer probabilities. "A lot of people want a clean answer -- it's Object X," he said, adding AI systems may only be 80 percent confident that it is. Just like apps on smartphones, there are some caveats with using them. Sometimes a specific app offers good recommendations based on a user's past behavior, sometimes an app does not. Enemies could also "spoof" Soldiers by planting fake information onto AI systems. "As we get answers in, we have to train our operators how to understand the results that are coming out of them," Easley said, "and understand what the enemy is trying to do so we're making better decisions." A possible solution could be frequent updates to algorithms while in combat and pushing that info out to AI systems in near real-time. "We have to find a way to automate the process much faster," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Gaza rockets land in Tel Aviv after evading Israel's Iron Dome missile system Iran Press TV Thu Mar 14, 2019 10:49PM At least two rockets launched from the besieged Gaza Strip have landed in the Israeli capital Tel Aviv, bypassing the Iron Dome missile system to mark yet another embarrassing defeat for one of the world's most expensive military forces. The attack on Thursday night caused rocket alerts to blare throughout central Israel, Israeli media reported. Several people told local media that they could hear two loud blasts in the Gush Dan (the greater Tel Aviv area), while some also claimed to have seen Iron Dome missiles being launched. Authorities in Tel Aviv and Rishon Lezion municipalities said they would open public shelters as a cautionary measure. The Iron Dome missile system was activated but apparently failed to intercept any of the missiles. The Israeli military confirmed the news but tried to pass off the interception failure as a result of the missile system's self-destruction mechanism which kicked in once it realized the missiles were going to land in open areas. Initial reports suggested that the rockets caused no damages or injuries. However, several people had to be treated for shock as this was the first time since Israeli's last war with Gaza in 2014 that missile sirens were being activated in Tel Aviv. Military spokesman Ronen Manelis said nobody in Tel Aviv expected Palestinian rockets to travel this far. "We did not have advance knowledge of this fire today, and in fact it surprised us," Manelis said. Israel launches attacks on Gaza Shortly after the attack, the Israeli military said it was "attacking terror targets in Gaza" but did not provide any details. Palestinian sources reported Israeli attacks near the Khan Yunis port, in southern Gaza. Eyewitnesses in Gaza said Israeli warplanes were carrying out airstrikes across the enclave. Press TV's correspondent said there had been no reports of casualties from the Israeli attacks, but people living in Gaza feared a major escalation from the Israeli military. Netanyahu calls emergency meeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who also acts as the regime's minister for military affairs, called an emergency meeting at army headquarters after the rocket attack. According to reports, Israelis had asked an Egyptian security delegation in Gaza to leave the area. Media outlets in Gaza reported that the Hamas resistance movement had evacuated military posts in anticipation of Israeli attacks. The delegation has been mediating indirect talks between Hamas and Israel since late February reportedly in hopes of striking a truce deal that could lead to a long-term agreement lasting between five to 10 years. A Palestinian source in Gaza told Haaretz that the rockets were fired from the northern part of the enclave. No Palestinian groups claimed responsibility for the attack. Palestinian resistance movements Hamas and Islamic Jihad denied any role in the attack. Iron Dome's failure The missile attack further hurts Iron Dome's reputation as a missile shield system that was supposed to once and for all end concerns about rocket attacks from Gaza. The multi-billion dollar system experienced a humiliating defeat during the latest military flare-up between Gaza and Tel Aviv in November, when Hamas fired more than 460 rockets at the occupied lands in less than 24 hours in response to Israeli aggression. The clashes ended after an Egypt-brokered ceasefire took effect in Gaza. The truce was criticized by some Israeli officials and led Avigdor Lieberman to step down as the minister of military affairs. The resignation, which could bring about early elections in the occupied lands, was hailed by Hamas as "an admission of defeat" and a "political victory" for the Palestinian resistance. Back then, Hamas leader in Gaza Yahya Sinwar warned Israel not to test the resistance group again or it will target Tel Aviv. Sinwar noted that he had spoken to Muhammad Deif, the leader of Hamas's military wing the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades about the possible response to next aggression by Israel. "Deif asked me to say that Tel Aviv and Gush Dan are next. The first barrage to hit Tel Aviv will surprise Israel," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address CJTF-OIR Strike Summary Feb. 24 - March 9, 2019 U.S. Central Command Release No: 19-013 March 15, 2019 March 13, 2019 Release # 20190313-02 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CJTF-OIR Strike Summary Feb. 24 - March 9, 2019 SOUTHWEST ASIA -- Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve and its partners continue to target and pursue the enduring defeat of Daesh. CJTF-OIR and its partner forces' operations are exerting pressure on Daesh senior leaders and associates, as well as degrading, disrupting and dismantling Daesh organizational structures throughout Iraq and Syria. CJTF-OIR remains committed to the enduring defeat of Daesh to improve conditions for peace and stability in the region, and to protect all our homelands from Daesh's terrorist threat. Strike Summary Between Feb. 24 - March 9, 2019, CJTF-OIR conducted 99 strikes consisting of 139 engagements against Daesh targets in Syria and Iraq. In Syria, CJTF-OIR conducted 97 strikes consisting of 137 engagements, engaged 228 Daesh tactical units, and destroyed 71 tactical vehicles, 35 vehicle borne improvised explosive devices, 17 supply routes, 11 fighting positions, 10 weapons caches, eight staging areas, four command and control nodes, two tunnels, two heavy machine guns, one anti-aircraft gun, one fuel tanker, and one boat. In Iraq, CJTF-OIR conducted two strikes consisting of two engagements. Between Feb. 24 - March 9, 2019, CJTF-OIR detected 88 strikes from other actors that crossed the Euphrates River Valley. CJTF-OIR is committed to avoiding and in every case minimizing civilian casualties; CJTF-OIR calls on all other actors in the area to observe the same precautions. This Coalition strike release contains all strikes conducted by fighter, attack, bomber, rotary-wing, or remotely piloted aircraft, rocket propelled artillery and ground-based tactical artillery. A strike, as defined in the Coalition release, refers to one or more kinetic engagements that occur in roughly the same geographic location to produce a single, sometimes cumulative effect in that location. For example, a single aircraft delivering a single weapon against a lone Daesh vehicle is one strike, but so is multiple aircraft delivering dozens of weapons against a group of Daesh-held buildings and weapon systems in a compound, having the cumulative effect of making that facility harder or impossible to use. Strike assessments are based on initial reports and may be refined. CJTF-OIR does not report the number or type of aircraft employed in a strike, the number of munitions dropped in each strike, or the number of individual munition impact points against a target. The information used to compile the daily strike releases is based on 'Z' or Greenwich Mean Time. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address March 15, 2019 News By Jim Garamone Defense.gov NATO Chairman Discusses Alliance's Unique Role for Peace WASHINGTON -- NATO is the most successful organization of its type in history, and it is adapting to ensure it remains a force for peace in the future, the chairman of NATO's Military Committee said here yesterday. British Royal Air Force Air Chief Marshal Stuart Peach said in an interview that alliance members are building a strategy that will act as a guide for decisions moving forward. Peach and the military representatives of the Military Committee are in Washington for discussions and consultations. "Every organization no matter how it has evolved needs to take a strategic look," he said. "I would describe a strategy as a handrail a guide. It is very difficult for anyone to predict the future, but a strategy and strategic thinking gives that sense of what we could do [in various circumstances]." He said bringing the Military Committee to the United States shows the unity and solidarity of the alliance. The committee first visited Norfolk, Virginia, where they met with French air force Gen. Andre Lanata, NATO's supreme allied commander for transformation. The command is the warfighting development arm of NATO. The committee also visited the new Joint Forces Command built to ensure the sea lanes across the Atlantic. They held talks aboard the USS Harry S. Truman an aircraft carrier named after the man who was president when NATO was formed in 1949. Peach and the committee then came to Washington, where they held high-level talks. Collective Security "It is important for the American people to realize that they have been kept safe by NATO for these decades in terms of collective security," Peach said. "It is worth reminding everyone that the only time in its history that the alliance has invoked Article 5 for collective defense was after the 9/11 attacks in 2001, and we did so very quickly." The last point is key as alliance leaders want to ensure decision-making at the speed of relevance, he said. "I think we have shown as the most successful alliance in history that we do adapt to the changing times, changing threats, changing circumstances," he said. NATO is a military alliance with political leadership that provides collective security to nearly 1 billion people. "The Department of Defense of the United States is stronger with those allies alongside," Peach said. "It is stronger with the ability to work together on common operational problems such as our missions in Afghanistan and Iraq and in the Balkans. We have a history of responding to changing circumstances and in that response the United States is stronger when we respond as 29 [member nations]." An Alliance That Bridges An Ocean In the 70 years since the signing of the Washington Treaty establishing the alliance, there have been waves of activity that reflected the times. The alliance changed throughout its history and continued to grow. But through it all, "we didn't forget that we are a transatlantic alliance," Peach said. That is still relevant today. "It recognizes the vital element of transatlantic security after two world wars that unite the people of North America with the people of Europe through this military alliance under political control," he said. Military-to-military ties within the alliance are strong, Peach said. One reason for this is that there are generations of service members that "grew up" while working alongside one another. Another part is the shared sacrifice of war. "It's an emotional experience for everyone that serves together in operations or in combat it is something you don't forget," Peach said. "All of my operational experience in my 45 years of service have been with other nations, including the United States on many occasions." "It is something unique about military service it develops a sense of brotherhood and comradeship," he continued. "It is maybe not words that are used in the daily round of the 21st century, but they are very important words, because they define and embody the spirit of military service. "I am proud of my role in support of the military alliance and I am moved when we travel by the sight and the knowledge that those 29 allies working together in harmony, far away from home, delivering collective security for the people of the alliance." Peach added. Every military organization in history has to be ready to deliver on the task that it has been given, the air chief marshal said. "That is termed readiness," he said. "Of course, readiness can mean many different things: Ready to do what? Where? How? That is why we have a strategy that handrail that guides us." Part of that strategy is to ensure readiness for unexpected challenges and for new challenges. "I commend the U.S. leadership and the Defense Department's support for the alliance in doing new and different things such as the enhanced forward presence in Poland and the Baltic Republics and the ability to respond to maritime requirements in the many seas that NATO has responsibility for," he said. In times of political turbulence, the military-to-military links, the shared experience of operations or combat and the military relationships between senior military leaders and commanders is the vital DNA of a military alliance, Peach said. These ties allow the leaders to be honest with one another. "We welcome input from all allies," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Palestinian Resistance warns Zionist of continuing attacks in Palestinian territories IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Tehran, March 15, IRNA -- The spokesman for the Palestinian Resistance Committees in response to the severe attacks by the Zionist regime jets on the Gaza Strip, emphasized that resistance groups in the case of the continuation of the Zionist attacks, in a coordinated response, target the occupied Palestine. Speaking with Al- Mayadeen news network on Friday, Palestinian Resistance Committees spokesman Abu Mujahid underlined that the missiles launched to Tel Aviv have no link to Palestinian resistance groups. The Zionist bombers carried out massive attacks against the Gaza Strip Friday morning on the pretext of firing two missiles from Gaza to Occupied Palestine. Meanwhile, Zionist media reported that the regime's troops targeted 100 spots last night in the Gaza Strip. The Gaza Strip has been blocked by the Zionist regime since 2006, preventing the flow of food and medicine. Abu Mujahid also made the remark that 'We gave Egypt great opportunities to stop the crimes of the Zionist invaders and aggression on Gaza, but in the current situation, if the invaders continue their attacks on the area, the joint operations room of the resistance groups respond in consistent way to these attacks. 9455**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Poland continues push for permanent U.S. military base People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 10:53, March 15, 2019 WARSAW, March 14 (Xinhua) -- Poland will continue advocating for a permanent U.S. military base for a further year, Foreign Affairs Minister Jacek Czaputowicz said on Thursday in a foreign policy address. "Poland's aspiration to become the core of NATO and U.S. military presence in the region is realistic," Czaputowicz told the Sejm (lower house of parliament) on Thursday in the presence of the Polish president and the prime minister. "Strengthening the NATO military presence on the eastern flank of the North Atlantic Alliance, especially including military cooperation between Poland and the U.S., remains our priority," Czaputowicz said. Currently, Poland hosts up to 4,500 U.S. troops: a rotational U.S. brigade of about 3,500 men near the German border; and a U.S.-led multinational group of 1,000 soldiers from the UK, Croatia and Romania, based in the north-east. Poland has been lobbying for a permanent U.S. military base on Polish soil, even offering to pay 2 billion U.S. dollars in costs. On Wednesday, U.S. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy John Rood met with Polish defense officials in Warsaw to discuss the issue of the base and troop deployment. However, the talks were not likely to result in the deployment of a permanent U.S. military base this year, Pawel Soloch, head of the Polish National Security Bureau, told the Polish portal onet.pl on Wednesday. "This is more of a longer-term commitment to the type of presence that's already in Poland, this is not a new U.S. base as some people think," a source close to the negotiations between the Pentagon and Poland told the U.S. portal Defense One. In his speech in Parliament on Thursday, Czaputowicz said that the Ministry of Defense's work on establishing a permanent U.S. base of strategic importance will continue for a further year. Curtis Scaparotti, NATO's supreme allied commander in Europe, also said Wednesday that "a mix" of permanent and rotational forces would be ideal in Poland, according to Defense One. "I am perfectly content with the large forces that are rotating today," Scaparrotti told the Armed Services Committee in the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday. But Scaparotti also said there was a role for a permanent headquarters, which would manage the flow of rotational troops and be effective at establishing relationships with allies in the region. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US imposes visa bans on ICC personnel over probe into Afghan war crimes Iran Press TV Fri Mar 15, 2019 07:32PM US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says his country will restrict visas for International Criminal Court (ICC) personnel looking into the US military's alleged war crimes in Afghanistan. "I'm announcing a policy of US visa restrictions on those individuals directly responsible for any ICC investigation of US personnel," Pompeo said at a State Department briefing on Friday. "This includes persons who take or have taken action to request or further such an investigation. These visa restrictions may also be used to deter ICC efforts to pursue allied personnel, including Israelis," he added. The US secretary of state also announced that Washington was ready to take additional steps, including economic sanctions, if the world body failed to change its course. Pompeo did not make clear how many individuals would be affected by the decision. The announcement comes as the United States has refused to cooperate with international investigators over their probe into alleged war crimes of US military personnel in Afghanistan, claiming they violate US sovereignty. The administration of US President Donald Trump has previously rebuked and questioned the International Criminal Court. One of National Security adviser John Bolton's first speeches was about the ICC, condemning its investigation into US personnel. Responding to the Friday announcement, the official body lashed out at Pompeo's remarks and said the US was is "hellbent on rolling back human rights protections." "This announcement is the latest attack on international justice and international institutions by an administration hellbent on rolling back human rights protections," said Daniel Balson, Advocacy Director at Amnesty International USA. "The ICC prosecutes the most serious crimes under international law, including genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. Impeding the work of ICC investigators disrupts its vital function and demands impunity for the White House's own policies. In doing so, it risks setting a dangerous precedent," he said. "That the administration has chosen visa bans, powerful tools typically reserved for the most serious of human rights abusers, to prevent investigation into allegations involving some of the most serious crimes in the world is highly indicative of its culture of disregard for rights abuses," Balson concluded. The US invaded Afghanistan in October 2001 and overthrew a Taliban regime in power at the time. But US forces have remained bogged down there through the presidencies of George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and now Donald Trump. Obama announced in 2013 that he was pulling out all US troops from the Arab country. However, the US troops returned to Iraq a year later under the pretext of fighting the Daesh terrorist group. Trump had also pledged during his election campaign to end US military presence in Iraq and Afghanistan. But he has changed his mind since entering office and prolonged the US military presence in both countries. The ICC has repeatedly highlighted alleged abuses of detainees by American troops between 2003 and 2005 that it believes have not been adequately addressed by the US government. Washington insists that the ICC does not have jurisdiction over American citizens because the US never ratified the Rome Statute that established the court in the first place. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address More ruling party officials ditching Algeria's Bouteflika Iran Press TV Fri Mar 15, 2019 02:58PM A senior leader of Algeria's ruling FLN Party says President Abdelaziz Bouteflika is "history now," in another sign that the party is potentially embracing the cause of the recent widespread protests against the long-time president. Bouteflika on Monday abandoned a decision to seek a fifth term amid weeks of mass rallies, but he canceled the upcoming election without setting a new date, prompting accusations that he was plotting new "tricks" and sparking a new round of protests. On the eve of the first Friday protests since Bouteflika's announcement, Hocine Kheldoun, a former spokesman for the FLN, said in an interview with Ennahar television that the party had to look ahead and take sides with the anti-Bouteflika protesters. Kheldoun's remarks late on Thursday were another major setback for Bouteflika as several other senior FLN officials had already broken ranks with him publicly. On Friday, thousands of protesters gathered in the center of the capital, Algiers, demanding Bouteflika to step down. Some of the demonstrators shouted "FLN, go!" during the protest, signifying that they are not just dissatisfied with the president but with the party long associated with him as well. "Those who think we are tired are wrong. Our protests will not stop," said the 37-year-old protester Madjid Benzida, who was attending the protest. Anti-government protests first erupted in Algeria on February 22 over Bouteflika's bid to extend his 20-year rule. The demonstrators demanded a new era with younger leaders who would offer greater social freedoms and prosperity. 'Game over!' Algerians have barely seen their ailing 82-year-old president since he suffered a stroke in 2013, and demonstrators are also angry about corruption and secrecy in Algeria's power structure. A former minister, who is familiar with Bouteflika's inner circle, said the president could not survive the pressure building against him. "Game over! Bouteflika has no choice but to quit now," the former minister anonymously told Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US rights report shows Washington's hostility towards Palestinians: Foreign ministry Iran Press TV Fri Mar 15, 2019 01:58PM The Palestinian Foreign Ministry has strongly condemned the United States over its decision to drop the term Israeli-occupied in describing the Golan Heights and Palestinian territories in its latest annual human rights report, stating that the measure is tantamount to Washington's hostility towards Palestinians. "The so-called human rights report issued by the US State Department is damning evidence of [US President Donald] Trump administration's hostility towards the Palestinian people, their national identity and rights, as well as the universal values of human rights," the ministry said in a statement released on Friday. The statement noted that the report was devoid of proper political and legal context as it did not refer to the occupation of Palestinian territories and the Syrian Golan Heights. The report reaffirmed the US administration's complicity with the Israeli agenda of colonial occupation and oppression by attempting to whitewash Israeli crimes and excuse human rights violations against Palestinian people, the Palestinian Foreign Ministry pointed out. The ministry also highlighted Palestine's rejection of the report for its negation of Palestinian people's national identity and deep historic roots in their own homeland. "This racist and hostile position reaffirms the fact that the US administration is now an accomplice in the violations of Palestinian people's human and national rights. This makes them part of the problem, not the solution." The ministry then urged the international community to defend human rights and ensure they are respected. In its so-called Country Human Rights Practices for 2018 published on Wednesday, the US State Department dropped references to the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Israel seized the Golan Heights from Syria after the 1967 Six-Day War and later occupied it in a move that has never been recognized by the international community. The regime has built dozens of settlements in the area ever since and has used the region to carry out a number of military operations against the Syrian government. Any change in US language and terminology in regard to the West Bank and Gaza Strip is a cause of concern for Muslims as it reflects Washington's intentions about supporting the establishment of a Palestinian state envisaged by interim peace agreements in the 1990s. Analysts believe the Trump administration is turning its back on Palestinians and its international obligations towards the establishment of a Palestinian state to further serve and defend Israel's interests. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US sends bombers near Chinese islands in disputed waters for second time this month Iran Press TV Fri Mar 15, 2019 06:34AM The US has flown a pair of nuclear-capable bombers over the South China Sea for the second time this month despite Beijing's calls on Washington to respect its sovereignty in the strategic disputed waterway. The Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) said in a statement Thursday that two B-52 bombers flew near the disputed islands in the South China Sea. "Two B-52H Stratofortress bombers took off from Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, and conducted routine training in the vicinity of the South China Sea March 13, 2019 (HST), before returning to base," said a PACAF spokesperson. It was the second time this month that US has carried out such flights in the area. The former flight took place on March 6. The bombers, capable of carrying and launching nuclear weapons, also flew over the East and South China Seas in September and November 2018 respectively. The US also sends its warships close to the islands in what it calls "freedom of navigation" patrols. China has constantly warned Washington that close military encounters by air and naval forces of the two countries in the region could easily trigger miscalculation or even accidents at sea or in air. The sea, which is a gateway for trillions of dollars in maritime trade each year, is also claimed by Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Taiwan and Brunei. The US which sides with China's rivals in their territorial claims -- says such military operations are meant to protect "freedom of navigation" in the sea. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Afghanistan clashes with US over Taliban talks exclusion Iran Press TV Fri Mar 15, 2019 03:12AM The United States and Afghanistan have clashed publicly over Washington's decision to exclude Kabul from its ongoing peace talks with the Taliban, a move that a senior Afghan official says is aimed at "delegitimizing" the Afghan government. National Security Adviser Hamdullah Mohib, who was on a visit to the US, said Thursday that US peace negotiator Zalmay Khalilzad either "doesn't know how to negotiate" or has alternative objectives in mind other than peace. "Knowing Ambassador Khalilzad's history, his own personal history, he has ambitions in Afghanistan. He was wanting to run for president twice," Mohib said before meeting senior American officials in Washington. "The perception in Afghanistan and people in government think that perhaps, perhaps all this talk is to create a caretaker government of which he will then become the viceroy," he said, referring to a politically loaded term in South Asia as it was the title of the colonial administrator of British-ruled India. He warned that Khalilzad's approach was weakening the Afghan government. The comments were viewed as Kabul's most strident public complaints to date over its absence from talks being held in Qatar. The Taliban have reiterated opposition to direct talks with President Ashraf Ghani's administration in Kabul. Ghani has repeatedly stressed that no peace deal between the Taliban and the US could be finalized without involving his government. Mohib's comments did not go down well in Washington, with US Undersecretary for Political Affairs David Hale saying that he would communicate his side's "displeasure" with Mohib once they meet. "To the comments themselves, we don't believe they warrant a public response," US State Department spokesman Robert Palladino told reporters. On Tuesday, Khalizad said in a number of tweets that it was "clear all sides want to end the war." The latest round of talks lasted 16 days and finished on Tuesday. Further talks are expected later this month. US negotiators have been negotiating a ceasefire with the Taliban and their role in the country's political future, including President Ashraf Ghani's government. The Taliban's five-year rule over at least three quarters of Afghanistan came to an end following the US invasion in 2001 but 18 years on, Washington is seeking truce with the militants. A senior Taliban commander, familiar with the talks, said the group will announce a ceasefire with the US only after foreign forces leave the country. The Taliban refuses to engage in direct talks with Ghani's government, accusing it of being a US puppet. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Armenian Court Extends Detention Of Ex-President Kocharian By RFE/RL's Armenian Service March 15, 2019 A court in Yerevan on Friday has extended by two months the pretrial detention of Robert Kocharian, a lawyer for the former Armenian president said after the court session on March 15. Aram Orbelian also said he would appeal the decision. Kocharian was again arrested in December more than four months after being charged with overthrowing the constitutional order during the final weeks of his decade-long rule that ended in April 2008. He denies the accusations as politically motivated. Earlier this month, the Special Investigative Service (SIS) asked the court to extend Kocharian's arrest for the second time since his rearrest late last year. The court on March 15 granted the request. Kocharian's lawyers have dismissed the SIS's case against their client as groundless and politically motivated. Kocharian is accused of ordering security forces to use force against opposition supporters who protested against alleged fraud in a disputed presidential election in February 2008. Eight protesters and two policemen were killed when security forces quelled the two days of protests that began on March 1, 2008. The crackdown came after Kocharian declared a three-week state of emergency. The 64-year-old ex-president says the accusations are part of incumbent Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian's political "vendetta" waged against him. Pashinian played a key role in the 2008 protests and spent nearly two years in prison because of that. He has strongly defended the criminal case against Kocharian and denied orchestrating it. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/armenian-court- extends-detention-of-ex-president -kocharian/29823431.html Copyright (c) 2019. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address USAF B-52 Bomber Reportedly Spotted Flying Near Russia's Borders in Baltic Sea Sputnik News 21:53 15.03.2019(updated 22:13 15.03.2019) Earlier, the Russian military reported that crews from the Baltic Fleet's air defence formation's S-400 mobile air defence systems had gone on combat duty in the Kaliningrad region amid NATO's continued buildup in the region. A US Air Force Boeing B-52H Stratofortress approached to within about 160 km of the border with the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad on Friday, data from the PlaneRadar monitoring resource indicates. "16:25 Moscow time. A US Air Force #Boeing B-52H #Stratofortress strategic bomber, registration number 61-0009, engaging in imitation of the bombing of the base of the Russian Baltic Fleet." The B-52H, capable of carrying nuclear weapons, was said to have maintained an altitude of 82,30 meters, flying at over 960 km per hour as it skimmed the Polish maritime border in the Baltic Sea heading northeast before turning around and heading southwest. According to PlaneRadar, the bomber engaged in an immitation run of a mission aimed at bombing the Russian Baltic Fleet's base. The US and its NATO allies have increased the reconnaissance activities of their aircraft and drones near Russia's borders significantly in recent years as part of a growing number of exercises in the region and the buildup of NATO troops deployed in Eastern Europe. USAF aircraft including the P-8A Poseidon spy plane and the Northrop Grumman Global Hawk drone regularly fly near Russia's borders in the Baltic and Black Seas, as well as near Syria in the Mediterranean, with flights especially common near Russian military bases in these regions. According to the Russian military, the Russian air force detected and accompanied over a thousand foreign spy planes flying along Russia's borders in 2018. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hamas Vows to 'Take Measures' Against Perpetrators of Tel Aviv Rocket Fire Sputnik News 17:59 15.03.2019 The statement follows Israel Defence Force spokesman Avichay Adraee stating that Israeli troops attacked around 100 targets in the Gaza Strip on Friday morning in response to the 14 March shelling of Tel Aviv from Palestinian territory. The Palestinian Hamas militant group, which openly calls for Israel's destruction, has pledged to take action against those who launched rockets on Tel Aviv on Thursday. "We are following up on the firing of rockets from Gaza against the national consensus and the ministry will take measures against the violators," the Hamas-run Interior Ministry said in a statement on Friday. The statement comes as the Times of Israel quoted an unnamed Hamas official as saying that the group "has no interest in an escalation" with Israel. The official added he "has no idea" who fired rockets toward Tel Aviv on 14 March. Daoud Shehab, spokesman for the Palestinian terrorist group Islamic Jihad (PIJ), for his part, rejected reports of the PIJ being behind the rocket fire, slamming them as "baseless lies and claims". He also pointed out that his group is "committed to the ceasefire understandings [between Hamas and the Jewish state]" as long as Israel "halts its aggression against the Palestinian people". Earlier on Friday, Israel's Kan public broadcaster and Palestinian media reported that Tel Aviv and Hamas had agreed on a ceasefire after the Thursday rocket fire. Israel has not confirmed the reports. Israel Defence Force spokesman Avichay Adraee, in turn, wrote on his Twitter page that "in response to the rocket fire at Israel, some 100 [Hamas] terrorist targets have been hit across the Gaza Strip". The rockets fired toward Tel Aviv were the first such shelling since 2014, and they reportedly did not hit residential areas and caused no direct injury. New wave of tensions near the Gaza border began last March, when Palestinian protests, dubbed the Great March of Return, began. Escalation further mounted in fall due to continued shelling and arson balloons launches from Gaza into the Israeli territory and Israeli strikes on Palestinian targets in response to these actions. Hamas seeks the creation of an independent state of Palestine and wants Israel to withdraw from the Palestinian territories it occupied after the 1967 war. The movement, which is blacklisted by Israel as a terrorist organisation and repeatedly exchanged rocket strikes with Tel Aviv, governs the Gaza Strip independently of the Palestinian Authority. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Venezuelan Minister Blames US for 'Terrorist Act' Targeting Oil Plant Sputnik News 10:56 15.03.2019 The accusations come after a fire broke out at the Petro San Felix heavy oil processing plant in eastern Venezuela on Wednesday. There were no reports of casualties. Venezuela's Oil Minister Manuel Quevedo insists the US is behind what he described as a terrorist attack on his country's oil plant, where a blaze took place earlier this week. "There was a terrorist act that we denounce at an international level," Quevedo told state television network VTV. He also accused Venezuela's self-proclaimed president and opposition leader Juan Guaido of collusion with the US. Quevedo tweeted earlier that the Venezuelan opposition is "intensifying terrorist incursions" against the state-run oil company PDVSA in order to negatively impact Venezuela's crude exports, which are vital to the nation's economy. Slamming the opposition as "traitors", he wrote that the US "decided to rob Venezuela of its oil resources [and] wants blood to flow". There was no immediate reaction from Washington with respect to Quevedo's remarks, which came after three storage tanks at the Petro San Felix heavy oil processing plant in eastern Venezuela caught fire late Wednesday. The incident followed Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's accusations earlier this month that the country's opposition and US authorities are eager to start a war for the Latin American country's natural resources. "No one should let themselves be fooled! The Venezuelan opposition and the US government do not want to help the country. On the contrary, they want to seize our natural resources. They want to unleash an 'oil war' to invade our homeland and rule here! But they will fail!" Maduro tweeted. Earlier, he claimed that Washington's restrictive measures against PDVSA were tantamount to an illegal seizure of Venezuela's sovereign assets. In January, the US blocked $7 billion in PDVSA assets in its jurisdiction and imposed a ban on deals with the entity. US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said that by doing so, Washington was taking care of PDVSA, and that it was in the interests of the Venezuelan people. The developments came amid the ongoing political crisis in Venezuela which escalated in late January, when Guaido declared himself the country's interim president. Maduro slammed Guaido's move as an attempt to stage a coup orchestrated by Washington. The US immediately recognised Guaido, with many of its allies following suit. Russia, China, Mexico, Turkey and a number of other countries have stated that they recognise Maduro as Venezuela's only legitimate president. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel Attacked About 100 Targets in Gaza Strip After Tel Aviv's Shelling Army Sputnik News 07:17 15.03.2019(updated 08:37 15.03.2019) TEL AVIV (Sputnik) The Israeli troops attacked around 100 targets in the Gaza Strip early on Friday in response to the shelling of Jerusalem from the Palestinian territory, spokesman for the Israel Defense Force Avichay Adraee said. "In response to the rocket fire at Israel, some 100 terrorist targets have been hit across the Gaza Strip," Adraee wrote on his Twitter page. He added that Israel held the Hamas Islamist movement responsible for the attacks launched from the Gaza Strip. On Friday, air raid sirens sounded in Tel Aviv for the first time since summer 2014 as the IDF registered the launches of two rockets from the Gaza Strip. Several more rockets were fired at the southern part of Israel. Earlier in the day, the IDF pounded alleged Hamas targets in Gaza in response to the first since 2014 attack toward the Israeli capital. Notably, the Palestinian movement said it was "not responsible for the rockets fired on the enemy". In the early hours of Friday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a meeting with the heads of security agencies after the Tel Aviv attack. The new wave of escalation near the Gaza border began last March, when Palestinian protests, dubbed the Great March of Return, began. The tensions further mounted in fall due to continued shelling and arson balloons launches from Gaza into the Israeli territory and Israeli strikes on Palestinian targets in response to these actions. For decades, Israel has been in conflict with the Palestinians, who have been seeking diplomatic recognition for their independent state on the territories of the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, which are partially occupied by Israel, and the Gaza Strip. The Israeli authorities have repeatedly blamed Hamas for Gaza residents' aggressive actions toward Israel. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Remarks to the Press Remarks Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Press Briefing Room Washington, DC March 15, 2019 SECRETARY POMPEO: Good morning, everyone. Today I'd like to make brief remarks on two foreign policy issues. But first, I want to offer my personal condolences to the nation of New Zealand in the wake of the grotesque mosque attacks in Christchurch. The thoughts and prayers of the American people are with the victims and their families today. The United States condemns this hateful assault. We pledge our unwavering solidarity with the government and people of New Zealand in this hour of darkness, and we stand ready to offer any and all assistance. Now, I'd like to comment on the Senate vote this week to end support for the Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen. We all want this conflict to end. We all want to improve the dire humanitarian situation. But the Trump administration fundamentally disagrees that curbing our assistance to the Saudi-led coalition is the way to achieve these goals. The senators who voted "aye" say they want to end the bombing in Yemen and support human rights. But we really need to think about whose human rights. If you truly care about Yemeni lives, you'd support the Saudi-led effort to prevent Yemen from turning into a puppet state of the corrupt, brutish Islamic Republic of Iran. If we truly care about Saudi lives, you'd want to stop Iran-backed Houthis from launching missiles into Riyadh. If you truly care about Arab lives in the region, you'd support allied efforts to prevent Iran from extending its authoritarian rule from Tehran to the Mediterranean Sea and on down to Yemen. And if we truly care about American lives and livelihoods, and the lives and livelihoods of people all around the world, you'd understand that Iran and its proxies cannot be allowed to control the shipping lanes that abut Yemen. We're deeply aware of the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, and we deplore it. The United States has given more than $2 billion to help the Yemeni people since the start of the conflict, and Saudi Arabia has given over $500 million in 2018 alone and has pledged an additional $500 million this year. The Islamic Republic of Iran has provided zero dollars for humanitarian assistance. The way to alleviate the Yemeni people's suffering isn't to prolong the conflict by handicapping our partners in the fight, but by giving the Saudi-led coalition the support needed to defeat Iranian-backed rebels and ensure a just peace. We hope I met with Martin Griffiths yesterday we hope that agreements can be implemented to de-escalate, but we must make sure that this crisis comes to an end. Second item I wanted to talk today about is the International Criminal Court. In a speech last year in Brussels, I made clear that the Trump administration believes reforming international institutions, refocusing them back on their core missions, and holding them accountable when they fail to serve the people that they purport to help. We seek to partner with responsible nations to make sure that international bodies honor the principles of liberty, sovereignty, and the rule of law. Nation-states come together to form these institutions, and it's only with their consent that these institutions exist. Since 1998, the United States has declined to join the ICC because of its broad, unaccountable prosecutorial powers and the threat it poses to American national sovereignty. We are determined to protect the American and allied military and civilian personnel from living in fear of unjust prosecution for actions taken to defend our great nation. We feared that the court could eventually pursue politically motivated prosecutions of Americans, and our fears were warranted. November of 2017, the ICC prosecutor requested approval to initiate investigation into, quote, "the situation in Afghanistan," end of quote. That could illegitimately target American personnel for prosecutions and sentencing. In September of 2018, the Trump administration warned the ICC that if it tried to pursue an investigation of Americans there would be consequences. I understand that the prosecutor's request for an investigation remains pending. Thus today, persistent to existing legal authority to post visa restrictions on any alien, quote, "whose entry or proposed activities in the United States would have potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences," end of quote, I'm announcing a policy of U.S. visa restrictions on those individuals directly responsible for any ICC investigation of U.S. personnel. This includes persons who take or have taken action to request or further such an investigation. These visa restrictions may also be used to deter ICC efforts to pursue allied personnel, including Israelis, without allies' consent. Implementation of this policy has already begun. Under U.S. law, individual visa records are confidential, so I will not provide details as to who has been affected and who will be affected. But you should know if you're responsible for the proposed ICC investigation of U.S. personnel in connection with the situation in Afghanistan, you should not assume that you will still have or will get a visa, or that you will be permitted to enter the United States. The United States will implement these measures consistent with applicable law, including our obligations under the United Nations Headquarters Agreement. These visa restrictions will not be the end of our efforts. We are prepared to take additional steps, including economic sanctions if the ICC does not change its course. The first and highest obligation of our government is to protect its citizens and this administration will carry out that duty. America's enduring commitment to the rule of law, accountability, and justice is the envy of the world, and it is the core at the core of our country's success. When U.S. service members fail to adhere to our strict code of military conduct, they are reprimanded, they're court-martialed, and sentenced if that's what's deserved. The U.S. Government, where possible, takes legal action against those responsible for international crimes. The United States directs foreign aid to strengthen foreign nations' domestic justice systems, the first and best line of defense against impunity. The United States also supports international hybrid legal mechanisms when they operate effectively and are consistent with our national interest. These would include, for example, the mechanism handling Rwandan and Yugoslav atrocities and international evidence collection efforts in both Syria and Burma. But the ICC is attacking America's rule of law. It's not too late for the court to change course and we urge that it do so immediately. Thank you. MR PALLADINO: We have time the Secretary has time for a few questions. Let's go to Associated Press, Matt. QUESTION: Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Secretary. SECRETARY POMPEO: Yes. Morning, Matt. QUESTION: Just very briefly on the ICC decision, are you doing this today because they haven't closed or dropped the pending Afghanistan investigation or is there some other reason? And then secondly, I'm wondering if you've had a chance to see and if you could respond to what the North Korean deputy foreign minister said overnight about the U.S. giving up a golden opportunity by walking away in Hanoi and blaming you personally and Ambassador Bolton for creating this atmosphere of hostility. SECRETARY POMPEO: So with respect to the reason for the actions we're taking today, it's part of a continued effort to convince the ICC to change course with its potential investigation and potential prosecution of Americans for their activities and our allies' activities in Afghanistan, trying to stop them, trying to prevent them from taking actions that are deeply inconsistent, in our view, with the course of action that has been laid out for the ICC, even though we're not members. That's a model that we've talked about before, and we are now implementing what we had already said that we would do. I did have a chance to see the remarks overnight from Choe Son-hui. In Singapore, after a great deal of work, the two leaders came together and began a course of action which has led to the toughest sanctions that have existed against North Korea global sanctions, UN Security Council resolution sanctions that remain in effect. The demands of those sanctions are the complete denuclearization of North Korea, the missiles, the weapons systems, the entire WMD program. That's the requirement laid out by the United Nations Security Council. The two leaders met. Chairman Kim made a commitment to denuclearize. We continued to work between Singapore and Hanoi to deliver on that. We've had hostages return. We have them having stopped missile testing and nuclear testing. We are hopeful that we can continue to have conversation, negotiations. I saw the remarks that she made. She left open the possibility that negotiations would continue for sure. It's the administration's desire that we continue to have conversations around this. As the President said when he was in Hanoi, the offer that they made simply didn't rise to the level that was acceptable given what they were asking for in exchange for that. MR PALLADINO: Let's go to BBC, Barbara. QUESTION: Just a quick follow-up on North Korea: What's the next step, then? Because there has also she also hinted that Kim Jong-un would make a statement possibly lifting the moratorium on tests. And then secondly, if I could on Golan, the human rights ambassador said on Wednesday that removing the word "occupation" or "occupied" from the Golan and the West Bank was not a policy change, but we know that Israel is afraid of Iran and Hizballah threatening Israel from the Syrian side of the Golan, so in your view, does that strengthen the Israeli case for annexing the occupied bit? SECRETARY POMPEO: So I don't have anything to add about the change in language that we used. It was characterized properly. There is a real risk. The proxies that are in the region, in southern Syria and in the vicinity of the Golan Heights, are presenting risk to the Israelis, and we've made clear the Israelis have a right to defend themselves. With respect to what was said last night about Chairman Kim potentially considering ending the moratorium, I can say only this: In Hanoi, on multiple occasions, he spoke directly to the President and made a commitment that he would not resume nuclear testing, nor would he resume missile testing. So that's Chairman Kim's word. We have every expectation that he will live up to that commitment. MR PALLADINO: CNN, Michelle. QUESTION: Thanks. This week on North Korea again the State Department has said that talks have continued with North Korea. On what level have they continued? SECRETARY POMPEO: Yeah, I'm not going to talk about the negotiations. They're ongoing. QUESTION: So -- SECRETARY POMPEO: I've been very consistent about that. QUESTION: Does this -- SECRETARY POMPEO: I intend to be. QUESTION: Well I mean, saying what level they continued on doesn't necessarily give anything away. SECRETARY POMPEO: Yeah, I understand. QUESTION: But but this announcement, then, was did this come out of left field from your point of view? And if I could, on the ICC, you mentioned that this is already being implemented. Could you give us a number or an assessment of how many people will immediately be affected by sanctions? SECRETARY POMPEO: No. MR PALLADINO: Last question. Washington Post, Carol Morello. QUESTION: Sir, do you think the attacks on you personally made by the North Koreans will hamper your ability to continue negotiations or do you think you're going to have to pull back in some way? Because they clearly are accusing clearly, they flatly accused you of creating an atmosphere of mistrust and hostility. SECRETARY POMPEO: Yeah. Well first, they're wrong about that, and I was there. I have my relationship with Kim Yong-chol is professional. We have detailed conversations. I expect that we will continue to do that. He's the counterpart that the North Koreans have put forward for me. It's not the first time I have a vague recollection of being called "gangster-like" from a visit that I took one time previously, and following that we continued to have very professional conversations where we tried our best to work together and represent our respective sides. I have every expectation that we'll be able to continue to do that. MR PALLADINO: All right, thank you all. SECRETARY POMPEO: Great, thank you all. Have a good day. MR PALLADINO: All right, thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Briefing With Special Representative for Venezuela Elliott Abrams Special Briefing Elliott Abrams U.S. Special Representative for Venezuela Press Briefing Room Washington, DC March 15, 2019 MR PALLADINO: Welcome back. It's Friday and we have with us Special Representative for Venezuela Elliott Abrams. Thank you for joining us again. Please. MR ABRAMS: You're very welcome. I'm going to start taking attendance and see how much interest there is here. (Laughter.) A few things to start with. The diplomatic staff from Embassy Caracas arrived at Dulles Airport just after 11 o'clock last night, and they will be meeting the Secretary at 2:30 this afternoon. They will in essence continue their mission from other locations from the State Department for the most part to try to support the Venezuelan people as they struggle to return Venezuela to democracy. Just a on consular services, I think we've said this before, but some time ago actually a month ago we said that non-immigrant visas would be handled in Bogota; immigrant excuse me, immigrant visas would be handled in Bogota for Venezuelans; non-immigrant visas can be applied for wherever the individual is, at any embassy or consulate around the world. Latest visa revocations: This week we have revoked 340 additional visas, and that's a process that will continue. In Venezuela, the diplomatic staff when we had a full staff and in the last month or so when we've had a reduced staff have been immeasurably assisted by the locally employed staff, which has really been, as is true in so many embassies, vital to the effort to restore democracy to Venezuela and to support a transition to a democratic government under Interim President Guaido. And so just want to express our gratitude toward them. They will remain employed by the United States in Caracas. Finally, I would like to congratulate Ricardo Hausmann, who is going to be the representative of Venezuela in the Inter-American Development Bank. The voting is not closed. The voting closes at around 6:30 p.m. today, I think, but enough votes have been cast so that we can say he will be elected. And this is part of the taking authority over foreign rolls and assets of Venezuela by the Guaido government. So we congratulate him and you should see an official statement I guess after the voting is closed. MR PALLADINO: If there's any questions -- QUESTION: Yeah. MR PALLADINO: -- he can take a few. All right, go ahead, Matt. QUESTION: Thanks. I'm just wondering if you've made any progress or how close you are to getting an agreement with someone for to be your protecting power. MR ABRAMS: We've made real progress. I don't have an announcement, but we have been working hard on this. It's moving forward. We're happy about the direction it's going in, and there's a lot of legal process to do, but this will happen soon. I'll leave it at that. QUESTION: I mean, any kind of a ballpark, like today, tomorrow? MR ABRAMS: Oh, no. QUESTION: Monday, Tuesday? MR ABRAMS: A week or two. QUESTION: A week or two from now? MR ABRAMS: From now, yeah. MR PALLADINO: Go ahead. QUESTION: Good afternoon. The IDB has put out a statement already saying that Mr. Hausmann can begin as the representative there because enough there have been sufficient votes cast. What does this mean generally speaking for any kind of economic help for Venezuela? Venezuela is in arrears to the IDB anyway. And then also, the IMF has delayed a decision by the board, their board, to discuss or a poll that would basically recognize Guaido, and as you know, the IMF is important as a seal of approval for other big institutions like the World Bank. But what does this overall mean to for lending or economic help? MR ABRAMS: I think most the most important task that Professor Hausmann will be undertaking is to work with the IDB on the preparations for post-Maduro Venezuela. He has personally done a lot of work on this. We actually met yesterday. And there are there's been really an enormous amount of work done over the last several years by Venezuelans and by others, and the IDB has clearly a leading role in the recuperation of the Venezuelan economy when we think of things like the electric sector, the energy sector, which are in bad shape. So he will now be in a position officially to represent Venezuela in those IDB preparations, and that's a lot better than doing it from a university. He'll be inside. MR PALLADINO: Washington Post. QUESTION: There were reports coming this week from Maracaibo, if I'm pronouncing it correctly, the second-largest city sort of the Houston of Venezuela, I guess, that had a lot of ransacking and it sounded like a terrible situation. I was wondering if you have any sense of how close the economy is and the infrastructure is in Venezuela to a total collapse, and following that, the impact on Maduro. MR ABRAMS: Our information is that the situation is considerably worse in Maracaibo than in Caracas in a number of ways. I have not seen lots of looting in Caracas, although the blackout and the diminution of social media mean that we may not be seeing everything that's happening. But we have seen it in Maracaibo. There's been a lot that has been reported in social media and to us. Part of this I think is because the regime is directing its attention to Caracas. They seem to be taking the view that what happens outside of Caracas is not threatening to them. So, for example, power supply is better in Caracas than in Maracaibo or anywhere else, actually. So that's a I think a political judgment on the part of the regime. What is the impact of this situation on the longevity of the regime? It's obviously going to shorten the life of the regime. Now, I've said before we're not making predictions, and as we look back we see that, generally speaking, neither we nor anyone else has been very good at predicting when regimes fall. But this blackout has really intensified the difficulties in the country the difficulties of average families, the difficulties of government institutions and I think it demonstrates that the longer the regime stays, the worse the economic and social situation are going to be. So what I'm I can't give dates, but it seems to me it's obvious that more and more Venezuelans will be coming to the conclusion that there is no decent future for the country with Maduro in power. MR PALLADINO: Said. QUESTION: Thank you. Two quick questions. To the best of your knowledge or your opinion, what is the cause of the blackout? What is the exact cause of the blackout? And second, could you explain to us the article under which Mr. Guaido declared himself president? It is said that it has expired last month. Could you explain that to us? What is the -- MR ABRAMS: Yeah. Yes. On the blackout, we're not there. I believe there is a consensus now that by far the most likely explanation is that these extremely high-voltage lines, which tend to bow as the months go and years go by that is, they are not straight; they tend to -- QUESTION: Sag. MR ABRAMS: -- sag is a good word into trees and bushes, and that creates the possibility of a fire. That is what more I would say more experts have given as the explanation. So how do you avoid that? It's simple: You cut and prune and keep trees and bushes from approaching the lines, and they haven't done that. There's really been no maintenance, not just for years but for decades on those. They have three high voltage lines coming essential from Guri Dam. That's our best explanation. It is not formed, obviously, by examination but rather by reports that we've seen from a fair number of experts. As to the Venezuelan constitution, the National Assembly has passed a resolution that states that that 30-day period of interim presidency will not start ending or counting until the day Nicolas Maduro leaves power. So the 30 days doesn't start now, it starts after Maduro. And they that's a resolution of the National Assembly. QUESTION: When did they they did that after he -- MR ABRAMS: They did that this is roughly a month ago. We could try to find the date for you. QUESTION: When he was when he was took the mantle of interim president, that wasn't there. MR ABRAMS: Yes, when that's correct. And so people -- QUESTION: Can you do that ex post facto like that? MR ABRAMS: When people ask a question how do -- QUESTION: That seems to be like saying I was elected for four years to be president, and then two years in you change the rules so that your term didn't start hasn't even started yet. How does that happen? MR ABRAMS: Well, you don't get a vote because you're not in the National Assembly. QUESTION: Well, you don't. You're not in the National Assembly either. QUESTION: If it matters, does the U.S. view that as constitutional under their system? MR ABRAMS: Yes. I mean, we're taking the the National Assembly is the only legitimate democratic institution left in Venezuela, and their interpretation of the constitution, as you know, is that as of the date of this alleged term for Maduro, the presidency is vacant. But they have also said that that 30-day period starts when Maduro goes. QUESTION: So Juan Guaido is the interim president of an interim that doesn't exist yet? MR ABRAMS: The 30-day end to his interim presidency starts counting. Because he's not in power, that's the problem. Maduro is still there. So they have decided that they will count that from when he actually is in power and Maduro's gone. I think it's logical. QUESTION: So then he really isn't interim president, then? MR ABRAMS: He is interim president, but he's not -- QUESTION: With no power. MR ABRAMS: -- able to exercise the powers of the office because Maduro still is there. QUESTION: So their interpretation is that until and unless he actually has the power to run the country, he's not actually the interim president? MR ABRAMS: No. Their interpretation is that the constitution requires a 30-day interim period, but it those 30 days should not be counted while Maduro is still there exercising the powers of his former office. MR PALLADINO: Let's go AFP. QUESTION: Have you engaged directly again with countries who still recognize Maduro as president? I think you said last week that you hadn't spoken with China yet. Have you had a chance to -- MR ABRAMS: The ambassador has, I believe, been out of town, so but we have spoken to China in Beijing, that is the ambassador has spoken to the Chinese Government about this. QUESTION: What is there something some progress on -- MR ABRAMS: Have they have we changed their position? Not yet. Not yet. MR PALLADINO: Let's go to Janne. QUESTION: Thank you very much. It is reported that North Korean Chairman Kim Jong-un willing to support Maduro regime. Any comment on that? Because it resembled Kim's regime and Maduro regimes. So any sense of this? MR ABRAMS: Well, we have noted that among the 54 countries that support the people of Venezuela and Interim President Guaido are many of the most influential democracies in the world. We have really not been trying to get North Korea to support Juan Guaido. That has not been a mission of ours. MR PALLADINO: Let's go to ABC. QUESTION: Two questions on the Americans that remain behind. When we were in Cucuta, you said that there are between 30- and 40,000 U.S. citizens. Some estimates put that as high as 50,000. Do you have an update on the number of American citizens you believe are still there? And American Airlines announced today that they are cancelling commercial flights into Venezuela. As more airlines consider that and take that action, is the U.S. considering any sort of evacuations for citizens that remain behind? MR ABRAMS: Well, first, we've had a Travel Warning for quite a while, and the Travel Warning has been one of the strictest, saying to Americans "don't go." Obviously, it makes it harder to leave when the largest commercial carrier is no longer serving the airport in Caracas. We are trying first to do the consular activities from the State Department, and we will have a protecting power. As to the question of a major threat that would lead lots of Americans to want to leave, there there were always plans to help people leave in a situation of danger. We have those for lots of countries, and I think I'll leave it at that. MR PALLADINO: Please. QUESTION: Olivia Gazis with CBS News. Colombia's president, Ivan Duque, said in a recent interview that he doesn't believe that military intervention by the United States is the right thing for Venezuela. How do you countenance that with the very real implicit and repeated threat that the United States has held out that all options remain on the table? MR ABRAMS: Well, I don't think that -- QUESTION: And very quickly, just a quick follow on that one: Have you identified a protecting power in Caracas for remaining staff? Because there I know there was discussion as to identifying one. MR ABRAMS: I'm just going to leave that where it is on the protecting power; that is, we are in discussions. They are reasonably advanced, but they're not done yet, and it will take some more time. I don't see a contradiction between what President Duque said and what we always say. We also believe that the military outcome is not the right outcome for the future of Venezuela, for the people of Venezuela. A peaceful democratic transition is the right outcome. Our policy is a peaceful transition to democracy. Our economic, financial, diplomatic, political pressure is designed to achieve that goal, or better put, to help the Venezuelan people recover their democracy. But there are lots of contingencies and dangers in the world, and therefore all options are on the table. MR PALLADINO: Let's go in the back right there, please. QUESTION: Yeah. Francisco (inaudible) Spain. Do you know how many Americans you have still in Venezuela, a rough number? And then can you explain more the sentence that you said, that you have closed the embassy because the situation there has become a constraint for the U.S. policy? What do you mean for that? MR ABRAMS: Well, we don't I'd say first we don't ever know exactly how many Americans are in any country, because Americans are free to travel. We urge them to register particularly in a situation like Venezuela register with the embassy. For one thing, they can get onto an email program or a text program where they get warnings, where the embassy can send them messages instantly. But they don't have to do that. So we're guessing, and the guesses are in the range of 30,000. As was said, there are higher ranges 35,000, 40,000, even higher than that. But we don't know the exact number because we have no way of knowing. What was the other? QUESTION: Second one the situation has become a constraint for the U.S. MR ABRAMS: Oh, I mean, we answered that already several days ago. MR PALLADINO: Many times. QUESTION: Can you elaborate that? MR ABRAMS: No. MR PALLADINO: All right, great. Let's go CNN, Michelle. QUESTION: Thanks. The International Energy Agency is saying that it looks like the entire oil industry could collapse in Venezuela. What's your view of that possibility, and how do you see that affecting the situation on the ground, including for the humanitarian situation? MR ABRAMS: Well, I'm not sure what "collapse" means there. There is certainly a steady drop in Venezuelan oil exports. Partly that reflects the blackout. But even if you take the blackout out of it, there is a very steady drop of maybe 50,000 barrels a month in production so that they're heading down toward a million now, and in a month or two they'll be below a million. This is a country that used to export more than 3 million barrels a day. QUESTION: When do you think that where did you say they could be below? MR ABRAMS: A couple of months. I think they're just above a million now. Again, they may have dipped below it because of the blackout, and they may come back 50- or 100,000 barrels. But that's the neighborhood they're in, and it is a steady decline. It is true that you can do long-term damage if you don't maintain the infrastructure. One of the reasons that, in our announcement of PDVSA sanctions, we gave some American firms 180 days to transition out was precisely to avoid this kind of damage. We I think it's fair to say that the Maduro regime has been a very poor steward of the infrastructure in Venezuela. We see that in the electrical infrastructure, and we also see it in the oil infrastructure. Our sanctions had nothing to do with them coming down from 3 million barrels a day to a million barrels a day. But it would certainly be better from the point of view of democracy and human rights, and it would certainly be better from the point of view of the economy and the oil sector if the regime were to come to an end. MR PALLADINO: Last question, please, in the back there. QUESTION: Yeah. (Inaudible) Hernandez from the Spanish newswire EFE. Have you had any conversation lately with Vice President Arreaza? MR ABRAMS: No. We had two conversations in god, I don't remember. One was in late January, one was maybe a week after that. And that those were the that was it. MR PALLADINO: All right, very good. QUESTION: Mr. Abrams, can you (inaudible) diplomats yesterday (inaudible) in Caracas? MR PALLADINO: That's good, we'll call it there. All right, thank you. QUESTION: Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Zeroing weapons, increasing defenders' lethality By Senior Airman Mya M. Crosby, 380th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs / Published March 15, 2019 AL DHAFRA AIR BASE, United Arab Emirates (AFNS) -- The 380th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron participated in firing live rounds for the first time in nearly four years at Al Dhafra Air Base, March 8. The members used the method of "zeroing" their weapons firing live rounds to ensure the accuracy as opposed to the method of bore sighting a less reliable technique. "Because (Al Dhafra AB) Security Forces is not authorized to bring their home station weapons, in-place weapons must be sighted for accuracy to the individual, known as 'zeroing,'" said Master Sgt. Kurt Musson, 380th ESFS noncomissioned officer in charge of combat arms. "Without the access to a live-fire range, combat arms has had to use a method of bore sighting to adjust each individual weapon to the particular shooter. Bore sighting uses a laser within the rifle barrel to mimic the path of a projectile. While fairly accurate at short range, it is considerably inaccurate at full distance. The most accurate method of zeroing is live-fire." With this being the first time in years that Al Dhafra AB defenders can shoot at the range, they were gratified by this new achievement. "It is daily business for me back home," said Staff Sgt. Bradley Nendel, 380th ESFS amory NCOIC. "To see it completed and the opportunity afforded here at Al Dhafra AB where it didn't previously exist, gives a true sense of accomplishment." This new capability is set to ensure Al Dhafra AB's readiness not only to benefit the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing, but the U.S. Air Forces Central Command. "For now, the range will be used as a rotational zero-fire operation, eventually lending the opportunity for a full-scale Shoot, Move and Communicate course for defender proficiency," Musson said. "When it comes to readiness, one main example comes to mind. Defenders often get forward deployed from this unit to other locations within AFCENT. Some locations may be viewed as higher threat locations, some not. Either way, they will be more prepared to fulfill whatever mission they're given and can have confidence in the fact that their weapon system, if needed, will be accurate in the defense of their commander's goals." Through the hard work of the members of the 380th ESFS Combat Arms team, other 380th AEW units, and the partnership between host nation, the defenders can now execute this critical training. This opportunity has given Al Dhafra AB's defenders' a better expectation of staying ready at a moment's notice. This is all due to teamwork within the unit and the wing. "The wing's Weapons Safety Office, Master Sgt. James Ross, played a huge roll in this endeavor," Musson said. "He and I spent a lot of time researching, planning and organizing to ensure we had a foolproof product to present to the wing commander. We completed a range inspection and risk assessment in order to define particular risk mitigation principles necessary for the commander's approval and ultimately, AFCENT endorsement." With weapons literally going hand-in-hand with the defenders' mission, members of Al Dhafra AB came together to increase the lethality of this dangerous crew. "It feels great knowing that we have done our part to strengthen the mission of (Al Dhafra AB)," Musson said. "It also feels amazing to know that through this effort, which was more than just combat arms, it also included the 577th (Expeditionary Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers) Squadron, Weapons Safety and 380th Medical Group Bioenvironmental, we are able to give all defenders the confidence in their most important tool, their weapon." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pakistan PM: Afghan Peace Within Reach By Ayaz Gul March 15, 2019 Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan said Friday that peace in Afghanistan is "around the corner," citing ongoing negotiations between the United States and Taliban insurgents. Islamabad is credited for arranging Washington's direct dialogue with the Taliban that U.S. officials say has "made real strides" in recent days. "Negotiations have been initiated with the Taliban. God willing, our brothers in Afghanistan would live together in peace in coming days," Khan told a big public gathering in northwestern Bajaur tribal district on the Afghan border. Without elaborating further, Khan asserted the peace process would result in stability, trade and economic prosperity for the region, and particularly for Afghanistan to enable the war-shattered country stand on its own feet. "A good government will be established in Afghanistan, a government where all Afghans will be represented. The war will end and peace will be established there," Khan said. U.S. and Taliban officials concluded their latest round of discussions last Tuesday in Qatar, saying they have reached a preliminary draft agreement toward resolving the 18-year-old Afghan war. The issues in focus are the withdrawal of U.S.-led foreign troops in Afghanistan in return for Taliban guarantees that Afghan soil would not be allowed to become a hub for international terrorists. A final understanding would then lead to intra-Afghan peace talks and a comprehensive cease-fire, according Zalmay Khalilzad, the U.S. chief negotiator. 'Strategic depth' Pakistan has long been accused of covertly backing and sheltering leaders of the Taliban insurgency under its policy of retaining a so-called "strategic depth" in Afghanistan to contain growing influence of arch rival India there. But officials in Islamabad insist the country has long abandoned the policy of supporting a single group in the neighboring country and says "peace in Afghanistan is now Pakistan's strategic depth." Pakistani officials say facilitation of U.S.-Taliban talks and ongoing construction of a robust fence on the country's traditionally porous 2,600-kilometer (1,600 miles) Afghan border also are a manifestation of Islamabad's resolve toward promoting regional peace and stability. "Fence means we are looking for our national security and not the strategic depth any more," a senior civilian and government official maintained while speaking to VOA in background interviews. Pakistani officials acknowledge Taliban insurgents still use Afghan refugee populations in the country, especially those located near the border, as hideouts. Authorities say they are reluctant to mobilize security forces to search for the militants in the camps where tens of thousands of displaced families have been living for years under the protection of the United Nations. Pakistan says it is is committed to upholding its international undertakings. Islamabad says it hopes that when peace returns to Afghanistan, the refugee families would be able to go back to their side of the border, effectively ending the security challenge posed by the makeshift camps. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address S. Sudan Rebels Urge Pressure on Kiir to Fund Peace Implementation By John Tanza March 15, 2019 South Sudan's main rebel group is calling on President Salva Kiir to provide funds to implement last year's peace agreement and is demanding that Sudan and Uganda apply pressure on Kiir to cough up the money. The government and the rebel Sudan People's Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO) signed the deal to end South Sudan's civil war on Sept. 12 in Addis Ababa. The deputy chairman of the SPLM-IO, Henry Odwor, said the parties are far behind schedule in carrying out key parts of the agreement, such as integrating rebel forces into the national army. He accused Kiir of not providing money for committees tasked with implementing the deal. "We all banked [our hopes] that, you know, the money will come from our oil, and we produce oil over 120,000 barrels per day. We find it very difficult [to believe] the government when they say they don't have money,'' Odwor said Wednesday on VOA's South Sudan in Focus. On Friday, Kiir was headed to Vatican City for a meeting with Pope Francis. Kiir's spokesman, Ateny Wek Ateny, said the president would brief the pope on the status of the peace deal. He said the Kiir administration hoped the pope would publicly encourage more international donors to support implementation of the peace agreement. Ateny said Pope Francis had previously appealed to South Sudan's warring parties to end to the conflict and was keenly aware of the efforts to make peace a reality in the country. "This is a very crucial opportunity," he said. " ... [I]t will avail the president the opportunity to talk to the pope and seek the pope's influence on this, to influence donors to support, because there is not any other way South Sudan would return to normalcy without the implementation of the agreement we have." Think tank doubts A report released this week by the International Crisis Group expressed doubt that the former warring parties would meet a May 12 deadline for creating a government of national unity. "The accord, brokered by Sudan's Omar al-Bashir and Uganda's Yoweri Museveni, is not a finished product and requires revision, a reality that mediators are not yet ready to admit. Additional political deals are necessary on two crucial matters unifying a national army and resolving bitter disagreements over local boundaries and administration inside South Sudan,'' the report said. Uganda and Sudan signed as the guarantors of the peace agreement, and Odwor said the two countries should honor their pledges to monitor the deal. "Now that we are pointing fingers at the government for not coming up with the funds, we would like Sudan, Uganda [and] the neighboring countries of the [regional Intergovernmental Authority on Development bloc] to bring pressure to bear on Salva Kiir so that he can bring money for implementing this peace," Odwor said. Unauthorized dealings Odwor, who is also the deputy chairman of the National Pre-Transitional Committee (NPTC), a body tasked with overseeing and coordinating the peace process, accused the government of spending money wastefully. South Sudan in Focus obtained copies of letters written in October and signed by Tut Gatluak Manime, NPTC chairman of a presidential adviser on security, authorizing the NPTC secretary to prepare contracts for $94.5 million to purchase 1,000 Toyota V-8 vehicles and another $42.5 million to buy of 50,000 tons of sorghum. Last year, the NPTC also requested the governor of the Bank of South Sudan to release an estimated 9 million South Sudanese pounds to renovate a home that belonged to the late South Sudanese liberation hero John Garang. Odwor said he saw the letter and discussed it with Kiir, who promised to investigate. "I asked Tut, I said this is [not] going to be good for your name, neither is it going to be good for South Sudan because people will look at it that we are squandering money that would have put in good use," he said. Odwor said the request to the bank governor was canceled but the money was allocated anyway. VOA made several attempts to speak with Manime for comment, but was told he was in Egypt on an official tour. The deputy rebel chief said his group was participating in the peace deal to bring change to South Sudan. 'This government, the status quo, continues and that is why we want this peace. We want the participation of the opposition to make sure that we check on the government,'' Odwor said. Winnie Cirino contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Arkansas National Guard unit refines earthquake plan with West Memphis By Capt. Shannon Haney March 15, 2019 WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. -- The 61st Civil Support Team (CST), 87th Troop Command, simulated their first ever on-the-ground earthquake response on Wednesday, as part of the Arkansas National Guard's ongoing "New Madrid earthquake" planning. The National Guard unit based out of Camp Joseph T. Robinson, North Little Rock, linked up with other local response agencies as part of the training. Representatives from the Memphis Police Department, the U.S. Coast Guard, Homeland Security, Arkansas Game and Fish, and the Pulaski County Emergency Management were all on-hand throughout the day-long exercise. "New Madrid" planning references the potential for a repeat of the 1811-1812 series of earthquakes along the Mississippi River (affecting Northeast Arkansas), which remain the most powerful to have ever hit the eastern half of the United States. The historic earthquake, as well as the underlying seismic zone, were named after the town of New Madrid. "We intend on simulating the completely austere environment we will likely encounter when we occupy a forward position in Crittenden County after a catastrophic New Madrid earthquake,' Lt. Col. Seth Tolliver, commander of the 61st CST said prior to the exercise. "Since we are the only Arkansas National Guard assets that will initially be in the county, we have to make sure we can carry out our mission without grid power, cellular or existing radio tower-dependent communications, and be able to self-sustain from days to weeks." Crittenden County is identified in New Madrid planning as a potentially devastated area, should the fault line produce a repeat. As part of the Arkansas National Guard's overall response plan, the 61st CST is designated as one of the first units on the ground in the Northeast Arkansas affected area. "Our unit will be one of the first birds out," Tolliver said of the significance. Widespread flooding is expected to be one of the biggest challenges in a New Madrid earthquake's aftermath. Waterways could re-route and overflow, and the low-lying Delta would be susceptible to complete long-term saturation. This was the 61st CST's first site visit to the county and one of the aims, according to Tolliver, was to find potential sites through which the unit could insert and begin setting up. Members of the 61st CST simulated just that -- setting up operations and communications in an austere environment. "None of that blue fleet is going to be here," Tolliver told the unit as they began the day, pointing to the blue fleet of fully-equipped and self-sustaining emergency vehicles the unit typically would respond with. "You're going to get here on a helicopter and survive on what you brought." With the help of the Arkansas Game and Fish and U.S. Coast Guard, the 61st CST also took their training to the water on Wednesday, exercising on the unit military specialty: identifying and mitigating hazardous materials. The 61st CST's typical missions are real-world events, not training simulations. They are often present at large public gathering throughout the state, including stadium games and concerts, where they monitor for chemical, biological, radioactive, and nuclear (CBRN) material. Because the unit is in high demand, not just within the state but as a unit "on-call" within a multi-state regional CST network, all members are full-time active duty National Guardsmen. When on-call in their highest status, Gold, the unit must be able to respond in under 90 minutes to any state within the network. That quick response ability made the unit an integral part of earthquake planning when the New Madrid task force began. Andy Traffenstedt, Director of Pulaski County Emergency Management, on site at Wednesday's training, said his organization also quickly became integrated. "The task force started up in 2011, so about 8 years," he said of working with the Arkansas National Guard earthquake planning. "We work with them in using their helicopter assets to move our advance team to the site. We would rather go by ground but already know we're going to have to have some assets go in by air." Traffenstedt said the Pulaski County Emergency Management's expertise lies in urban search and rescue efforts. In the event of an earthquake, his team will be focused on multi-story, high density, masonry buildings like schools and hospitals. "Past 5 days, the survivability rate drops significantly," Traffenstedt explained. "So we have to be there, getting people out within the first 72-96 hours. Time is really really critical on our aspect." At the conclusion of the training exercise, Lt. Col. Tolliver said the 61st CST definitely gained new insights, improvements, and better familiarization as a result of being on the ground. The unit, he said will take back information that will help refine the National Guard's overall earthquake response plan. He said he will return to the area in the future to continue building on the training they've begun. "I really appreciate the interagency cooperating," Col. Bussell, brigade commander of the 87th Troop Command, said during his observation of the event. "It's important to (practice that) because this is how we'll be operating in the real thing." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump vetoes bill that would block his border emergency Iran Press TV Fri Mar 15, 2019 09:11PM US President Donald Trump has vetoed a congressional resolution aimed at terminating his emergency declaration over a border wall. Trump's veto on Friday struck back at Republican and Democratic lawmakers who opposed his controversial move. The president's veto, signed in front of reporters in the Oval Office, is his first since he took office in 2016. He described the resolution as "dangerous" and "reckless." "Today I am vetoing this resolution," Trump told reporters. "Congress has the freedom to pass this resolution and I have the duty to veto it." Vice President Mike Pence, Attorney General William P. Barr and Kirstjen Nielsen, the homeland security secretary, were also present in the Oval Office. Barr said the president's emergency order was "clearly authorized under the law" and "solidly grounded in law." Now, the legislation will be sent back to Congress, which most likely does not have enough votes for an override, meaning Trump's declaration will remain in effect. However, House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in a statement that, "on March 26, the House will once again act to protect our Constitution and our democracy from the president's emergency declaration by holding a vote to override his veto." Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said in a statement following the veto. "There is no emergency; Congress has refused to fund his wall multiple times; Mexico won't pay for it; and a bipartisan majority in both chambers just voted to terminate his fake emergency." On February 15, Trump declared a national emergency to bypass congressional approval and secure funding for the construction of his wall along US-Mexico border. Less than two weeks after the declaration, lawmakers in the House of Representatives voted to revoke it despite veto threats by the White House. The Democratic-controlled chamber blocked the declaration by a margin of 245-182, however, falling short of overriding the possibility of a presidential veto. On Thursday, the Republican-controlled Senate also passed a proposal to terminate the declaration, with fifty-nine Senators, including a dozen Republicans, voting in favor of the resolution of disapproval and 41 others voting against it. Trump triggered the longest government shutdown in US history with his December demand for $5.7 billion in wall money. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Christchurch Attacks: Suspect Took Inspiration From Former Yugoslavia's Ethnically Fueled Wars By RFE/RL's Balkan Service, Robert Coalson March 15, 2019 A 17-minute headcam video of one of the Christchurch, New Zealand, mosque attacks on March 15 opens with an eerie scene of a man identifying himself as Brenton Tarrant driving to the Al Noor Mosque, where at least 41 people were gunned down. In the background, the jaunty accordion strains of a Serbian nationalist song form a discordant duet with the robotic voice and unrelenting directions of Tarrant's GPS system. The song emerged around 1995, during the height of the ethnically fueled wars that followed the breakup of Yugoslavia in the 1990s and left around 130,000 people dead. Apparently originally titled Karazdic, Lead Your Serbs, the song references wartime Bosnian Serb leader Radovan Karazdic, the so-called Butcher of Bosnia who was convicted by an international tribunal in 2016 of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. "The wolves are coming, beware, Ustashi and Turks," the lyrics to the song run, referring to Croatian nationalist fighters and Bosnian Muslims. "Karazdic, lead your Serbs. Lead your Serbs. Everyone must see that they don't fear anyone." "In defense of the Serb people...fighting for our beloved freedom, our beloved freedom," the song continues. Anti-Muslim Slogan The song's video, which was apparently recorded in 1995 but first posted on the Internet in 2006, has since become popular among radical white nationalists. In it, three men in ethnic Serbian paramilitary uniforms perform the song in a hilly field. The stony visage of accordionist Novislav Djajic in the video has itself become a common meme in nationalist circles under the rubric "Dat Face Soldier." Djajic was indicted in Germany for participation in genocide in 1997. He was acquitted of the genocide charge but convicted of complicity in 14 murders and sentenced to five years in prison. After his release, he was deported to a third country. The song's lyrics have been rewritten many times in many languages, always maintaining its militant anti-Muslim line. It often appears under the title Serbia Strong or Remove Kebab, an anti-Muslim slogan that began in Serbia but has been adopted by white supremacists across Europe and around the world. New Zealand authorities have identified the gunman in custody only as a 28-year-old Australian. But reports confirm that the suspect -- who has been charged with murder as police try to determine if he acted alone -- is the self-described "ethno-nationalist" who live-streamed the attack and published under the name Brenton Tarrant. Shortly before the attacks, which killed at least 49 people, Tarrant posted a 74-page manifesto in which he states that "more recently I have been working part time as a kebab removalist." In his live-streamed video of the attack, the slogan "Remove kebab" can be seen painted on one of Tarrant's high-powered rifles. There are also the names of legendary Serbian knight Milos Obilic and Serbian Prince Lazar Hrebeljanovic, who both fought against the Ottoman Turks at the Battle of Kosovo in 1389. The names of several other Balkan figures who fought against the Turks over the centuries are also scrawled on Tarrant's weapons. 'Islamic Occupiers' In his manifesto, Tarrant denies being a member of any organizations but says that he "only really took true inspiration" from Anders Breivik, the Norwegian far-right terrorist who killed 77 people in a bomb-and-gun attack in and around Oslo in 2011. Before his attack, Breivik published a 1,500-page treatise with hundreds of references to the conflicts in the Balkans. According to The Economist, "Kosovo" is mentioned in Breivik's screed 143 times, while "Serbia" shows up 341 times, "Bosnia" 343 times, and "Albania" appears 208 times. Breivik wrote that NATO's bombing of Serbia during the Kosovo war in 1999 was a major motivation for his attack, saying it was "completely unacceptable" that U.S. and European governments "bombed our Serbian brothers." Tarrant, in his manifesto, echoes that language, saying the United States must be weakened to prevent another situation where "U.S./NATO forces fought beside muslims [sic] and slaughtered Christian Europeans attempting to remove these Islamic occupiers from Europe." Tarrant, who describes himself in the manifesto as an "ordinary White man, 28 years old" and an Australian native of "Scottish, Irish, and English stock," goes on to characterize the attack as "anti-immigration, anti-ethnic replacement and anti-cultural replacement." Tarrant was expected to appear in a Christchurch court on March 16. The New Zealand Herald described the mosque attacks as the country's worst mass killing since 1943. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/christchurch- attacks-yugoslavia-tarrant-inspiration-suspect -new-zealand/29823655.html Copyright (c) 2019. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Christchurch Attacks: Why Are The Names Of A Georgian King And A Ukrainian Extremist Written On The Guns? By Mike Eckel March 15, 2019 Investigators piecing together the motivations of the suspected gunman behind New Zealand's worst terrorist attack are poring over the 87-page hate-filled manifesto he published, and the memes, cultural references in his online rantings, and musical allusions contained in the video he took of the deadly incident. Then there is the multilingual lettering scrawled on his guns, with references to various figures from history, past and more recent: Serbian, Italian, Hungarian, Ukrainian. And then there's the Georgian king and Georgian consort from the 12th century. In all, 49, people were killed and more than 20 wounded in the March 15 attack on two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch. An Australian man who claimed responsibility for the shootings said in a manifesto that he came to New Zealand only to plan and prepare for the attack. For Georgians, the references are perplexing and worrying. A spokesman for the country's State Security Service told the Georgian news agency Agenda.ge that the service was cooperating with partners regarding the weapons seized from the gunman. What appears to link the names together, Georgian or otherwise, is the figures were all participants in major battles or military conflicts with Islamic armies from history: variously called Ottoman, Persian, Seljuk, or Turkish, depending on the era and the author. David The Builder One of the two Georgian names is a king known to nearly all Georgian schoolchildren: David IV, or David the Builder. Formally known as Davit Aghmashenebeli in Georgian, he was ruler of the Christian kingdom in the 12th century when it was attacked by the armies of the Seljuk Empire, an empire of various Muslim communities that, at its height, stretched from the Aegean Sea to what is today northern Afghanistan. At the Battle of Didgori, the Georgian army defeated much larger Seljuk forces in 1121, and led the way for Georgia to expand its own kingdom between the Caspian and Black seas. The victory is called "miraculous" in Georgian, and its literature and culture is littered with references to the event. The second name was David Soslan, who was a military leader and husband of the Georgian queen at the time, Tamar. He played a key role in leading Georgian forces in battles several decades later, against Islamic forces at Shamkor -- in what is today's Azerbaijan -- and Basian- in what is today's Turkey. David Soslan is not nearly so well known in Georgian culture, possibly because he wasn't considered as royal as his wife, but also because, according to some sources, he was ethnically Ossetian, another ethnic group living in close proximity to Georgia and Russia. How the two Georgian leaders became associated with the white nationalism of the New Zealand gunman wasn't immediately clear. However, in his online manifesto and other writings, the gunman, who identified himself as an Australian called Brenton Tarrant, expresses extreme hatred for Muslims. Breivik 'Inspiration' One other obscure name scrawled on Tarrant's guns also caught the attention of online observers trying to figure out his motivations: the name of Pavlo Serhiyovych. Formally known as Pavlo Lapshyn, he hailed from the Ukrainian city of Dnipro, and traveled to England in early 2013 on a temporary work visa, according to a report in the online publication Open Democracy. Five days after arriving, he stabbed an 82-year-old man named Muhammad Saleem to death as he walked home in Birmingham. Lapshyn later confessed to the crime, telling investigators he killed Saleem because he hated "non-whites." He also admitted planting bombs at mosques in three towns in central England. He was sentenced to 40 years in prison in October 2013. Many more of the names written on Tarrant's guns focus on the history of the Balkans, and conflict, past and present, between Christian and Muslims there. That includes the legendary Serbian knight Milos Obilic and Serbian Prince Lazar Hrebeljanovic, who both fought against the Ottoman Turks at the Battle of Kosovo in 1389. The names of several other Balkan figures who fought against the Turks over the centuries are also scrawled on Tarrant's weapons. In his manifesto, Tarrant wrote that he "only really took true inspiration" from Anders Breivik, the Norwegian far-right terrorist who killed 77 people in a bomb-and-gun attack around Oslo in 2011. Before his attack, Breivik published a 1,500-page treatise with hundreds of references to the conflicts in the Balkans. RFE/RL's Georgian Service contributed to this report. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/christchurch- attacks-why-are-the-names-of-a- georgian-king-and-a-ukrainian-extremist- written-on-the-guns-/29824018.html Copyright (c) 2019. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump Vetoes Border Emergency Rebuke Passed by US Lawmakers Sputnik News 22:40 15.03.2019(updated 23:25 15.03.2019) Marking a first during his presidency, US President Donald Trump signed his first-ever veto on Friday, rejecting a congressional resolution to overturn his decision to declare a national emergency at the US-Mexico border. Surrounded by officials from the US Customs and Border Protection and family members of individuals killed by undocumented immigrants, Trump told reporters that lawmakers passed a dangerous resolution on Thursday, and that the measure would've ultimately put American lives at risk. "Today I am vetoing this resolution," Trump said. "Congress has the freedom to pass this resolution and I have the duty to veto it." Trump went on to state that the Land of the Free is facing an invasion, and that the US' current immigration laws must be changed. "It is definitely a national emergency, therefore to defend the safety and security of all Americans I will be signing and issuing a formal veto of this reckless resolution, and that's what it was," Trump later said at the signing ceremony. "Congress' vote to deny the crisis on the southern border is a vote against reality." "It's against reality. It is a tremendous national emergency, it's a tremendous crisis," he stressed. US Attorney General William Barr has said that Trump's declaration of a national emergency was authorized under the law. Trump's move comes just one day after 12 Senate Republicans joined Democrats in rebuking the president's February 2019 decision to declare a national emergency as a means to redirect government funds to build a wall at the US' southern border. "I look forward to VETOING the just passed Democrat inspired Resolution which would OPEN BORDERS while increasing Crime, Drugs, and Trafficking in our Country," Trump tweeted moments after the measure passed. "I thank all of the Strong Republicans who voted to support Border Security and our desperately needed WALL!" Trump's usage of the presidential veto power will send the resolution back to the US House of Representatives. US Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi says the house will vote on March 26th to override Trump's veto. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump Issues Veto to Protect Emergency Wall Funding By VOA News March 15, 2019 U.S. President Donald Trump has issued the first veto of his presidency, overriding a congressional measure and protecting his national security declaration to fund a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border. "Congress has the freedom to pass this resolution and I have the duty to veto it," Trump said Friday in the Oval Office. Surrounded by law enforcement officials as well as parents of children killed by people who were illegally in the United States, Trump called the congressional action "dangerous" and "reckless." On Thursday, Congress formally rejected Trump's national emergency declaration to fund border wall construction, as the Senate voted 59 to 41 to disapprove the executive action. A dozen Republicans joined with Senate Democrats to back the resolution. The House had passed the measure weeks earlier, largely along party lines. Back to Congress Trump's veto sends the issue back to Congress, where it is unlikely that there will be enough support to override the veto. Two-thirds majorities in both the House and Senate are needed to overcome a presidential veto. Earlier this year, a politically divided Congress provided limited funds to erect new fencing along small sections of the U.S.-Mexico border, an outlay Trump deemed inadequate. The president then declared a national emergency, allowing him to redirect federal funds for the wall, which the White House said would come from mostly military accounts. The president has argued the situation at the border is a crisis that warrants such an emergency declaration, and has said the United States is facing an invasion of people trying to enter the country illegally. Bypass Congress Democrats have largely opposed building a wall on the southern border. Republicans who voted against Trump's national security declaration said that while they supported increasing security on the southern border, they did not support Trump's attempt to bypass Congress. Congress has not funded Trump's border wall requests during the more than two years he has been in office, including during the first two years when Republicans were in control of both houses of Congress. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address FSB: India, Pakistan Mull Counter-Terrorism Cooperation Despite Tense Relations Sputnik News 03:11 16.03.2019 TASHKENT (Sputnik) - The intelligence services of India and Pakistan are interested in cooperation in combating terrorism despite a recent escalation of tensions between the two countries, Sergei Smirnov, the first deputy director of Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB), said Friday. Smirnov's statement comes after a meeting of the Council of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure of the Shanghai Cooperation (SCO) in Tashkent. The SCO currently comprises eight member states, including Russia, India and Pakistan. "Despite the well-known political events, that are currently taking place, the interest of the intelligence agencies [of India and Pakistan] in [holding] meetings and exchanging information is really high", Smirnov said responding to a relevant question. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated last month, after the Pakistani military shot down two Indian warplanes in the disputed region of Kashmir, responding to an earlier airstrike by Indian aircraft against what New Delhi said was a camp of Jaish-e-Mohammad group, considered terrorists by India and located on the Pakistani soil across the so-called Line of Control, separating India- and Pakistan- controlled areas of Kashmir. The Indian airstrike came after a deadly 14 February attack by Jaish-e-Mohammad on the Indian paramilitary police force in Kashmir in mid-February. While India has accused Pakistan of supporting the militants and having a "direct hand" in the incident, Pakistan, in turn, has rejected the allegations. The Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist group has claimed responsibility for the attack. The group, which used to perpetrate attacks in the Jammu and Kashmir state, is affiliated with Taliban movement and al-Qaeda terrorist organization and aims to separate Kashmir from India and to merge it into neighboring Pakistan. Jammu and Kashmir is a region that has been disputed by India and Pakistan since 1947 when both countries gained independence from the British Empire. The two countries have gone through three wars over the region, but the conflict has not been resolved. The unstable situation in the region has led to the emergence of extremist groups. *al-Qaeda, Taliban are terrorist groups banned in Russia and many other countries. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia's Soyuz MS-12 spacecraft docks to ISS People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 15:00, March 15, 2019 MOSCOW, March 15 (Xinhua) -- The Soyuz MS-12 spacecraft carrying three crew members successfully docked with the International Space Station (ISS) on Friday, Russia's space corporation Roscosmos said. Soyuz MS-12 docked with the Rassvet module at 04:01 Moscow time (0101 GMT), Roscosmos said in a press release. A Soyuz-FG rocket carrying the spacecraft blasted off from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan at 22:14 Moscow time (1914 GMT) on Thursday. Russian cosmonaut Alexey Ovchinin and NASA astronaut Nick Hague, who survived unscathed an aborted launch in October 2018, as well as NASA astronaut Christina Koch, are on board the spacecraft. Their mission will last 204 days. On March 29, Koch, together with another ISS crew member Anne McClain, who arrived at the ISS on Dec. 3 last year, will perform the first-ever all-female spacewalk. Russian cosmonauts are scheduled to conduct a spacewalk in May. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pentagon Hopes to Test Neutral Particle-Beam Weapon in Next Six Months Sputnik News 23:51 15.03.2019(updated 23:55 15.03.2019) The Pentagon wants to explore the utility of a neutral particle-beam weapon in orbit as a missile defense weapon, according to its 2020 budget proposal. It's just one of many ways the US is rushing to become the first nation to introduce weapons into space. It sounds more like a fixture in a science fiction film than something you'd find on the Pentagon's budgetary requests, but the proposal for Fiscal Year 2020's budget includes a $304 million request for funding for a program to develop directed energy weapons that can be deployed in space as a next-generation missile defense system, Defense One reported Thursday. The problem is, these weapons don't exist right now. That means that first the Pentagon must demonstrate that such a weapon is possible before it can even begin to develop a device usable for missile defense, something it's requested $15 million and six months of time to do. The MIssile Defense Agency (MDA) hopes to have a working weapon in orbit by 2023. Such a weapon has been built before, and even tested: in 1989, an experiment called BEAR Beam Accelerator Aboard a Rocket successfully fired a neutral particle beam into space as part of the US Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI), an attempt to get a leg-up in the Cold War with the USSR by building a space-based missile defense system. "The 24-foot, 3,500-pound beam accelerator was launched to an altitude of 125 miles on a Minuteman 2 rocket," the Los Angeles Times reported after the July 1989 test. The device, which fired a neutral particle beam into space for four minutes, is now owned by the Smithsonian. The Times explained how the weapon worked: "The accelerator creates an energized beam of hydrogen atoms carrying no electrical charge. SDI scientists explained that the beam is created by powerful accelerators propelling negative atoms that are stripped of their extra electron as the beam emerges from the device at nearly the speed of light the beam does not burn through metal but rather penetrates the warhead and then releases its energy." "We've come a long way in terms of the technology we use today to where a full, all-up system wouldn't be the size of three of these conference rooms, right? We now believe we can get it down to a package that we can put on as part of a payload to be placed on orbit," a senior defense official told reporters at the Pentagon on Wednesday, Defense One reported. "Power generation, beam formation, the accelerometer that's required to get there and what it takes to neutralize that beam, that capability has been matured, and there are technologies that we can use today to miniaturize." "I can't say that it is going to be at a space and weight requirement that's going to actually be feasible, but we're pushing forward with the prototyping and demo," the official said, noting the exploration "means we need to understand as a Department, the costs and what it would take to go do that. There's a lot of folklore that says it's either crazy expensive or that it's free. It needs to be a definitive study." "The addition of the neutral particle beam effort will design, develop and conduct a feasibility demonstration for a space-based Directed Energy Intercept layer. This future system will offer new kill options for the [Ballistic Missile Defense System] and adds another layer of protection for the homeland," according to a Tuesday MDA document obtained by Defense One, which noted the "new kill options" refers to targeting missiles as they leave the launch pad instead of intercepting them once they leave the atmosphere. "That's a really hard battle space to go after, right?" the Pentagon official told Defense One. "It's a very short timeline, first to even know where it [meaning the missile] is coming from It's less than a couple minutes before it leaves the atmosphere. So you have to have a weapon that's on station, that's not going to be taken out by air batteries, and so we have been looking at directed energy applications for that. But you have to scale up power to that megawatt class. You've got to reduce the weight. You've got to have a power source. It's a challenge, technically." Sputnik reported last November on the enthusiasm shown for energy-based weapons by US Defense Undersecretary for Research and Engineering Michael Griffin. At the Center for Strategic International Studies (CSIS) that month, he said the Department of Defense was pursuing "a renewed emphasis on laser scaling [meaning scaling up the power of lasers] across several technologies," an emphasis that would be reflected in upcoming budgets, he said. "In my opinion, we are no more than a few years away from having laser weapons of military utility," Griffin told CSIS, noting that the present level of development of the technology was "within a factor of two or three of being useful on a battlefield, airplane or ship." "We need to have 100-kilowatt-class weapons on Army theater vehicles. We need to have 300-kilowatt-class weapons on Air Force tankers," Griffin said, Military Times reported at the time. "We need to have megawatt-class directed energy weapons in space for space defense. These are things we can do over the next decade if we can maintain our focus." However, space-based weapons raise more than a couple of eyebrows, even if they're not weapons of mass destruction, which are explicitly banned by the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. China and Russia have repeatedly introduced draft treaties on banning all weapons in outer space, Sputnik reported. In 2014, the US rejected the draft Treaty on Prevention of the Placement of Weapons in Outer Space and of the Threat or Use of Force Against Outer Space Objects (PPWT) on the grounds that it was "fundamentally flawed" for not covering ground-based weapons, Space News reported at the time. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Belarus Criticizes Russian Ambassador's Statements On Minsk-Moscow Ties By RFE/RL March 15, 2019 Belarusian Foreign Ministry spokesman Anatol Hlaz has criticized Russian envoy to Minsk Mikhail Babich's recent public statements about the two countries integration, calling them "artificial and juggled figures." On March 15. the Belarusian Foreign Ministry published on its website Hlaz's response to a question by RIA Novosti about Babich's recent interview given to the state-run Russian news agency. RIA Novosti had published an interview with Babich the previous day, in which he rejected critical comments by Belarusian President Alyaksandr Lukashenka made during his recent meeting with media regarding "complicated" relations between the two countries. In the interview, Babich contradicted Lukashenka's statement that Moscow was preventing Belarusian goods from entering Russia's market, saying that many Belarusian-produced goods are exported to Russia. He added, however, that there shouldn't be a distinction between the Russian and Belarusian market since the existing Russia-Belarus Union should imply a unified single market. Hlaz told RIA Novosti he "recommends" that Babich "spend more time to understand specifics of the country he works in, get acquainted with its history and have more respect [for it]." "...Relations between our countries and peoples are much deeper and pervasive than those artificial and juggled figures the Russian diplomat regularly sticks to... I believe that in such a short time spent here in Belarus he simply failed to understand the difference between a [Russian] federal district and an independent state," Hlaz said. The Russia-Belarus Union State established in the 1990s exists mainly on paper. At a March 1 press conference, Lukashenka said that Russia and Belarus still needed to sort out a number of problems before talking about integration, adding that "the Russian leadership, especially the government, are not ready to go that way." Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/belarus-criticizes -russian-ambassador-s-statements-on- minsk-moscow-ties/29823706.html Copyright (c) 2019. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China's national legislature concludes annual session Global Times Source:Xinhua Published: 2019/3/15 19:42:11 The second session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) lowered the curtain Friday. Xi Jinping and other Chinese leaders including Li Keqiang, Wang Yang, Wang Huning, Zhao Leji, Han Zheng and Wang Qishan attended the closing meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Legislators adopted China's first unified foreign investment law, which is to take effect on Jan. 1, 2020. Xi signed a presidential decree to promulgate the law. "The newly-adopted legislation is a fundamental law in lifting China toward a new stage of high-level opening up in the new era," said top legislator Li Zhanshu when addressing the meeting Friday. He called for in-depth study and thorough implementation of the law to promote high-quality economic development. Legislators also approved resolutions on the government work report, and the work reports of the NPC Standing Committee, the Supreme People's Court and the Supreme People's Procuratorate. In addition, the legislators passed resolutions on the reports of the national economic and social development plans as well as the central and local budgets, and approved the resignation of NPC Standing Committee member Zhang Rongshun. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Free Flow of Ideas Absent in China's 'Two Sessions,' Observers Say By Joyce Huang March 15, 2019 China's "two sessions" the annual meetings of the national legislature and the top political advisory body wrapped up their two week long discussion Friday, leaving little reason for observers to believe major policy issues had been thoroughly debated. Instead, they said, most of the nearly 3,000 delegates of the National People's Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) had been disempowered to challenge authorities. "Clearly [Chinese President] Xi Jinping is under pressure and precisely because he's under pressure, feeling slightly vulnerable, not terribly but slightly vulnerable. He's just not going to allow anybody to say anything and who's going to take the risk?" said Steve Tsang, director of the China Institute at SOAS University of London. 'Dull and boring' This year's two sessions had turned out to be as "dull and boring" as he had anticipated two weeks ago, Tsang added. State media reported that the NPC's secretariat had received 491 proposals 487 proposed legislations and 4 regulatory recommendations to be handled by the top body. In his work report delivered last March 8, Li Zhanshu, chairman of the NPC's standing committee, pledged to move forward with revising urgently needed laws for deepening market-based reforms. The top legislature would expedite legislation in the domains of public well-being, national security, intellectual property rights (IPRs) protection, social governance, and ecological advancement, enforce the principle of law-based taxation, and improve relevant laws on state institutions, he added. Also, deliberation on the Civil Code, formulation of Amendment XI to Criminal Law and the laws on promotion of basic medical and health care, real-estate tax, export control and integrated military-civilian development are also on this year's legislative plan, according to Li. Constructive discussions? In spite of the lengthy agenda, where had all those constructive discussions been? If they're in public good, why aren't they made public? Tsang asked. The annual meetings are often seen as a carefully choreographed political show. Things got even more tightly controlled this year. Few of the supposedly highest parliamentary elite dared to speak up freely after Xi's two-term limit was removed last year for him to consolidate his grip of power, said Xia Ming, professor of political science and global affairs at The City University of New York. "[At times when Xi's] personal cult and dictatorship consolidates in Chinese politics, not a single delegate dares to touch upon major [politically sensitive] matters. For these delegates, the political red zone has been largely widened to have put a squeeze on their freedom [of expression]," Xia said. Sensitive ideas censored Politically sensitive ideas or proposals, in particular, are censored. For example, several of CPPCC delegate Zhu Zhengfu's proposals, which urged authorities to be prudent on the practice of televised confessions, the adoption of unlawful evidence and the presence of lawyers during suspect interrogations, was removed from the Internet one day after they were circulated online. The meetings had provided nothing but opportunities for Xi's cronies to allow their flattery toward the top leader to go a long way, the New York-based professor added. "These days, NPC and CPPCC [sessions] had clearly offered some political careerists a stage to put on a show carefully choreographed and highly dramatic so that they earn chances of promotion or grab more power. Their efforts are on public display," Xia said. Xia said that a meaningful exchange of democratic views are normally possible in small groups and plenty of delegates with integrity spoke freely in the face of past top leaders. But since Xi has taken over, dissent has become rare. Both Professor Tsang and Xia, however, agreed that China has put forward several significant pieces of legislation involving foreign investment and related issues such as intellectual property rights protection to help address its trade negotiations with the United States. But it remains to be seen if the U.S. will be satisfied. "That may well be what they [the Chinese] intend to do. But the Americans are not interested in them passing a law, the Americans are interested in the implementation of it," Tsang said. The more transparency, the better Sharing a different view, Ren Jianming, director of the anti-corruption and governance research center at Tsinghua University in Beijing, argued that the function of the two sessions has gradually improved to no longer serve as a rubber stamp. He, however, agreed that the top body should beef up its level of transparency by disclosing all proposals good or bad, politically sensitive or not for the public's eyes since they're in the interest of the general public. "Once [all ideas] and their related discussions are made public, a better solution can be brainstormed and found. There's no need to blacklist [dissenting views] and then leave them unsettled. That way, it may be even harder to find a solution to the problem," Ren said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea rethinks talks with US, missile launch moratorium: official Global Times Source:Global Times Published: 2019/3/15 13:53:40 North Korea is considering whether to continue talks with the US and maintain a moratorium on missile launches and nuclear tests given the US has not changed its attitude, said a North Korean official. At a press conference on Friday, North Korea's Vice Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui said that North Korea hasn't conducted nuclear tests and launched missiles in 15 months, so part of sanctions on the country should be lifted. However, the US said nothing about it but has requested denuclearization repeatedly. The US attitude is complicating the situation and North Korea believes it is unnecessary to have a similar dialogue unless the US changes its attitude. North Korea is also considering if it is still necessary to suspend missile launches and nuclear tests, said Choe. The comments came after the second summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and US President Donald Trump in Hanoi, which failed to reach an agreement last month. Choe said that the US showed no sincerity toward improving the bilateral relationship and carrying out their agreement in Singapore, where the two leaders first met in June 2018. Kim overcame great difficulty to participate in the Hanoi meeting, said Choe. Many people in the North Korean army believe the country should not abandon nuclear weapons. However, Kim demonstrated a firm determination to carry out the joint statement they reached in Singapore, Choe noted. Lu Chao, a research fellow at the Liaoning Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times on Friday that after the Hanoi summit, North Korea and the US are now at a stage where the two sides are observing each other's attitudes. "At this stage, the US should sit on the negotiating table with North Korea as soon as possible in order to maintain the peaceful situation. If the two sides return to the confrontation stage, the Korean Peninsula will be in a dangerous state," Lu said. Lu added that any move to escalate the Korean Peninsula issue should be opposed and what North Korea said has its reason. "North Korea has taken some practical steps toward denuclearization. So its appeal to lift some sanctions is reasonable and the US needs to respond to it," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea considering pulling out of talks unless US takes steps Iran Press TV Fri Mar 15, 2019 08:12AM A senior North Korean official says Pyongyang is considering suspending talks on denuclearization with the United States and resuming its nuclear and missile tests. The North's Vice Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui said on Friday that leader Kim Jong-un is set to make an official announcement about his decision soon. Choe said on their way back to Pyongyang from talks with US President Donald Trump in Hanoi last month, Kim told her that "for what reason do we have to make this train trip again?'" Trump walked away from the talks, claiming that Kim had insisted on the removal of all sanctions but Pyongyang rejected that account, stressing that it had only wanted a partial lifting of the penalties. "I want to make it clear that the gangster-like stand of the US will eventually put the situation in danger," Choe told foreign diplomats and journalists in Pyongyang. North Korea, she said, is deeply disappointed by the collapse of the talks between Trump and Kim. "We have no intention to yield to the US demands in any form, nor are we willing to engage in negotiations of this kind," the Russian news agency cited her as saying. Choe reiterated that Pyongyang's demand during the summit was for five key economic sanctions to be lifted, not all sanctions. She said Washington "has thrown away a golden opportunity this time" in Hanoi. "This time we understood very clearly that the United States has a very different calculation to ours." She also explained that Pyongyang now has no intention of compromising or continuing talks unless Washington changes its "political calculation" and takes measures that are commensurate with the steps North Korea has already taken. The North has taken several steps toward denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula since last year when Kim and Trump met in their first ever summit in Singapore and agreed to work toward the goal. It has already suspended missile and nuclear testing, demolished at least one nuclear test site, and agreed to allow international inspectors into a missile engine test facility. Subsequent diplomacy between the two sides, however, made little progress, mainly because the US refused to lift its harsh sanctions. Washington insists that sanctions on the North must remain in place until it completely and irreversibly dismantles its nuclear program. Bolton, Pompeo harden Washington stance The North Korean diplomat on Friday criticized Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and national security adviser John Bolton for their "uncompromising demands" which she said have hardened Washington's position. The two US diplomats have "created the atmosphere of hostility and mistrust and, therefore, obstructed the constructive effort for negotiations between the leaders of North Korea and the United States," she said. According to South Korea's former unification minister Jeong Se-hyun, Bolton may have played a major role in the breakdown of the summit by advocating "moving the goalposts." Bolton, who has a long history of disregard for international law, said after the summit that the president was right not to make a deal that wasn't in the best interests of the US. "I don't agree at all that it was a failed summit," Bolton said. Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee Adam Schiff, however, disputed Bolton's remarks, saying, "Of course the president did give up a great deal." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address French Carrier Strike Group Joins Operations Against Daesh US Central Command Sputnik News 07:31 15.03.2019 WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The French Navy's aircraft carrier Charles-de-Gaulle and its strike group have joined the operations of the US-led coalition against the Daesh terror group, the US Central Command said in a statement. "On 13th March 2019, the French Carrier Strike Group, CTF473 arrived off-shore Syria to support Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve", the statement said on Thursday. The carrier strike group consists of the Aircraft carrier Charles-de-Gaulle, the Danish frigate Daniel Juel, and an attack submarine among other assets, according to the statement. "The Charles-de-Gaulle launched Rafale Marine and Hawkeye aircraft to support coalition troops on the ground and gather intelligence while other air assets and vessels were conducting air and maritime control operations", the statement added. The French air carrier group has already conducted three previous missions since January 2015 in support of the US-led coalition. French President Emmanuel Macron has said that France would follow the United States in withdrawing forces from Syria after Islamists are defeated. However, Macron has stressed that Paris needs to "fix" the situation on the ground to help Syrians create an inclusive society and prevent other terrorist groups from thriving on frustrations of the people. Last year, the Lebanese Al-Manar TV network reported that the US military established a new base in the Syrian province of Hasakah, and France sent military convoys to the base. According to the media report, several US military columns, including armored vehicles arrived in Hasakah and later proceeded to Shadadi, while military vehicles allegedly under French flag followed into the area in northwestern Hasakah. However, the coalition's spokesperson has declined to comment on the matter, citing "operational security reasons". The US-led coalition of more than 70 members has been conducting military operations against the Daesh terrorist group in Syria and Iraq since September 2014. The coalition's activities in Syria are authorized neither by the Syrian government, nor by the UN Security Council. *Daesh (aka IS/ISIS/Islamic State) is a terror group outlawed in Russia and many other countries. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US officials offered Iranian engineer cash to take down Tehran's power grid: Report Iran Press TV Fri Mar 15, 2019 11:14AM Middle East commentator and analyst Sharmine Narwani, a former senior associate at Oxford University, has claimed that an Iranian-American engineer was offered money by US officials to conduct a sabotage mission targeting the power grid of Tehran, Iran's capital city. Narwani revealed on Thursday that the engineer, a friend of hers whom she did not name for security reasons, was approached twice by "US State Department employees" following Iran's 2009 post-election unrest and was offered $250,000 to carry out the operation. The agents allegedly described the operation as "very simple", demanding that the engineer goes to a specific area in Tehran and apply a specific code in a communication device during his upcoming trip to the city. The engineer, however, allegedly declined to carry out the operation and ultimately notified Narwani in 2010. Speaking to Narwani, the engineer had also expressed shock that US officials knew of his planned trip to Tehran and also knew that he was "cash-strapped" at the time. Narwani explained her initial acquaintance with the Iranian engineer by saying that she and her Iranian-American husband "ran an internet company in the telecommunications industry in Washington years ago and I was a founding member of the Iranian-American Technology Council." The journalist further wrote that she discussed the matter with "a colleague with an engineering background" who explained that the code could have been used to hack or deactivate power grids "governed by electronic or computer systems." "You don't have to physically be there if you can hack into it, but that's of course harder. If they (the Americans) needed to have someone physically there during the sabotage attempt, it probably means they didn't have remote access to the system," the engineer added. Narwani said that she sought to publicize the revelations after news spread about similar suspected sabotage operations targeting Venezuela's power grid this month. Last week, an overheating incident knocked out Venezuela's main hydroelectric dam, causing a widespread and ongoing electrical blackout, affecting 23 of the country's 24 states. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has accused the US of masterminding a "demonic" plot to destroy his country and force him from power by waging an "electromagnetic attack". The heightening tension comes as opposition leader Juan Guaido declared himself "interim president" of Venezuela in January, vowing to topple Maduro. The US has openly backed Guaido, imposing economic sanctions on Venezuela and confiscating the country's state oil assets based in the US to channel them to Guaido. Narwani, along with other Middle East pundits, have raised the prospect that the attacks on critical Venezuelan infrastructure may be related to an adoption of an earlier plan developed under the administration of former US president George W. Bush against Iran. Known by its code-name "Nitro Zeus," the New York Times first published details about the plan in 2016, claiming that the program sought to target Iranian electrical, communication and defense systems. The report also claimed that the Obama administration had "seriously" considered carrying out the plan if nuclear negotiations with Iran at the time had failed. Narwani believes details revealed to her by the mentioned Iranian-American engineer may have been part of the alleged sabotage program. Israel and the US have been conducting numerous acts of sabotage targeting the Iranian people and the county's critical infrastructure over the past years. In 2011, the US and Israel conducted a cyber attack against the Iranian nuclear energy program. Reporting the incident a year later, The Washington Post said the US National Security Agency (NSA), its spy service CIA, and Israel's military had worked together to launch a malware dubbed Stuxnet against Iran's nuclear facilities. Iran also claims the Israeli regime assassinated four of its nuclear scientists between 2010 and 2012. The US, under President Donald Trump, along with its regional allies, has also sought to weaken Iran by imposing strict sanctions on the country and inciting unrest in the country. In a public speech in December, Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei stated that the US had, however, failed to achieve its objectives. Ayatollah Khamenei stated that the Iranian nation has to remain vigilant as the US may seek similar plans in the upcoming year, despite its previously failed attempts. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraqi Security Forces working hard to deny Daesh transition U.S. Central Command Release No: 19-014 March 15, 2019 SOUTHWEST ASIA -- Anbar Operations Command conducted a series of air assault operations and major clearances targeting known Daesh locations in Anbar province, Iraq, Feb. 26 March 2, 2019. On Feb. 26, the Special Tactics Regiment, from Anbar province, conducted a series of air assault operations and major clearances in the Wadi Tubal area; targeting several known Daesh locations, resulting in four detainees accused of terrorism. Iraqi aviation assets are increasingly being utilized in combat operations against Daesh, considerably expanding their value in continuing to pressure Daesh as they transition to establishing sleeper cells and threatening the civilian population. On March 2, the 7th Iraqi Army conducted large scale clearances across the Wadi Hawran region and discovered approximately 43 improvised explosive devices across four different caches; all of the explosives were either marked or destroyed during the clearance operation. Finally, on March 2, Iraqi Army commanders, Iraqi government officials, and local Yazidi leaders, met to discuss Iraqi Security Forces presence in Sinjar, the local government, and the rehabilitation of the city. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address India, Myanmar Wipe Out Insurgent Camps Near Vital Connectivity Project - Media Sputnik News 14:08 15.03.2019(updated 22:16 15.03.2019) The joint operation against Arakan Army insurgent camps in Myanmar's Kachin area was mainly aimed at protecting the vital Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project that aims to connect India's northeast to East Asia through a deepwater port at Sittwe, the capital of Myanmar's restive Rakhine state. New Delhi (Sputnik) In a two-week-long pre-emptive joint operation with Myanmar's military, the Indian Army has destroyed dozens of insurgent camps located inside Myanmar in what it described as a mission to protect a vital infrastructure project meant to connect East Asia through Myanmar, reports The Assam Tribune. It is believed that Indian Army personnel did not cross into the territory of Myanmar, but provided all support, including surveillance, to the Myanmar military for the operation, which was completed on 2 March; on that date most of the Arakan Army insurgents were wiped out. Sputnik reported the movement of additional Indian forces towards the border with Myanmar on 18 February, a day after the two-week joint operation started. The joint action was prompted by intelligence inputs about a large number of Myanmar's Arakan Army (AA) militia being trained by another strong outfit, the Kachin Independent Army (KIA) in the Kachin area bordering Yunan province of China, according to the Assam Tribune. The intelligence agencies pointed out that some members of the AA were moving towards south Myanmar despite their bases being mostly located at the North of the country. "Arakan Army has managed to set up at least 10 camps across the international border with India in Rakhine state of Myanmar post-2017. Most of the camps were located across border pillars 1 to 9 along the Mizoram-Myanmar border. Intelligence inputs also indicated that some members of the Arakan Army were also planning to sneak into India," added the report citing defence sources. Amid a series of meetings between the armed forces of the two countries to chalk out a plan and launch a coordinated operation, Sputnik earlier reported that at least two additional Indian Army units were deployed to the Indo-Myanmar border in southern Mizoram's Lawngtlai district to aid the Myanmar Army, which had already started operations against the AA. Assam Tribune reported that the Indian construction workers engaged in the implementation of the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project were feeling threatened by the possibility of the AA insurgents posing a serious threat to the project. Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project aims to establish a multi-modal sea, river and road transport corridor for the shipment of cargo from the eastern ports of India to Myanmar through Sittwe Port and vice-versa. The project would encourage investment and trade and also open alternate routes for connectivity to India's north-east region. India is all set to take over the operations of Myanmar's Sittwe Port, which is part of Kaladan project, later this year. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 15) Sources said that the Supreme Court (SC) has temporarily lifted the requirement for students to pass the Philippine Law School Admission Test (PhilSAT) before being admitted into law school. The SC issued a temporary restraining order against the implementation of a memorandum of the Legal Education Board requiring aspiring law students to pass the Philsat before admission to law school. The LEB is the agency which oversees law schools in the country. With the lifting of the requirement to pass the PhilSAT, the SC is now allowing students to study law subject only to the admission policies of law schools. The LEB's Memorandum Order No. 7, series of 2016, which created the PhilSAT, was assailed before the high court, with petitioners arguing that the mandatory test for law school admission infringes on academic freedom. S-400 Air Defence Systems Go on Combat Duty in Russia's Westernmost Region Sputnik News 13:51 15.03.2019 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Combat crews of Russia's advanced S-400 Triumf air defence missile systems started combat duty in the Kaliningrad region, the Baltic Fleet said in a statement Friday. "The combat crews of the S-400 Triumf air defense missile systems from the air defence missile regiment of the Baltic Fleet's air defense formation went on combat duty for air defence in the Kaliningrad region," the Western Military District's spokesman for the Baltic Fleet, Capt. 1st Rank Roman Martov, told reporters. The S-400 Triumph is Russia's next-generation mobile surface-to-air missile system and can carry three different types of missiles capable of destroying aerial targets at a short-to-extremely-long range. The weapon is designed to track and destroy various types of aerial targets, from reconnaissance aircraft to ballistic missiles. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Senators Request Probe of Trump Office's Nuclear Talks With Saudi Arabia Sputnik News 18:27 15.03.2019 WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The Government Accountability Office (GAO) should investigate the Trump administration's negotiations with Saudi Arabia over a civil nuclear agreement that may possibly violate federal law, US Senators Bob Menendez and Marco Rubio said in a letter to Comptroller General Gene Dodaro. "We request that GAO conduct an urgent review of [the Department of Energy's] interactions with Saudi Arabia regarding nuclear cooperation, how it has coordinated with or involved other relevant agencies, particularly the State Department, and the specific initiatives or proposals for nuclear cooperation that have been presented or discussed in those interactions," the letter said. Menendez and Rubio said that member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee have raised concerns about the "very opaque manner" in which the negotiations are happening and that Congress has not been fully updated on the status of any discussions. The senators point to the Atomic Energy Act (AEA) of 1954, which outlines the process for nuclear cooperation between the United States and other countries. According to the AEA, the president is required to submit the text of the agreement and a nuclear proliferation assessment statement to Congress before any agreement can come into effect. "[Committee] members would want to be assured that any agreement includes rigorous nonproliferation safeguards and other conditions to prevent nuclear cooperation with Saudi Arabia from undermining or threatening regional or international security," the senators said. This comes after on Thursday, US Deputy Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette told reporters in Houston that discussions between the United States and Saudi Arabia on a nuclear agreement continue, however, the ball is currently in Riyadh's court now. Riyadh, which is seeking to expand its energy portfolio, has been in talks with Washington over a bilateral nuclear cooperation agreement that would allow Saudi Arabia to pursue its civilian nuclear projects. However, after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, Turkey, numerous US lawmakers have called on President Donald Trump to halt discussions with Saudi Arabia on a bilateral civil nuclear agreement. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Arab League must re-evaluate Syria membership suspension: Ambassador Iran Press TV Fri Mar 15, 2019 05:16PM Syrian Ambassador to Lebanon Ali Abdel Karim Ali says his country must return to the Arab League, calling on the 22-member regional organization to reconsider "its wrong decision to suspend Syria's membership." "The Arab League needs Syria because it cannot function well without it. The organization has violated its charter by suspending Syria's membership in the organization," Arabic-language online newspaper Elnashra quoted Ali as saying on Friday. He added that the Arab League made this decision under pressure from the United States and Europe. "It has become clear that many Arab countries noticed that they have an interest to resume their diplomatic ties with Syria and to return the country to the organization," Ali said. Syrian Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad said on February 3 that his country will eventually return to the Arab League, stressing that the Damascus government will never surrender to blackmail or accept conditions for the restoration of its membership to the regional organization. "Those who are trying to ignore Syria or to impose conditions for its return to the Arab League will not succeed, since Syria will not surrender to blackmail and is not primarily concerned with anything other than its domestic problems," Mekdad said. He added that certain anti-Syria decisions are being made by some Arab states on the instructions of extra-regional powers. The Arab League suspended Syria's membership in November 2011, citing alleged crackdown by Damascus on opposition protests. Syria denounced the move as "illegal and a violation of the organization's charter." The issue of possible restoration of Syria's membership in the Arab League comes especially after a recent move by some Arab countries to re-open their embassies in Damascus. Bahrain's Foreign Ministry announced in a statement on December 28, 2018 that work at the kingdom's embassy in the Syrian Arab Republic was going on while the embassy of the Syrian Arab Republic to Bahrain was carrying out its duties and flights connecting the two countries were operational without interruption. The United Arab Emirates had earlier officially reopened its embassy in Damascus. The Emirati Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said the reopening of its embassy "reaffirms the keenness of the United Arab Emirates to restore relations between the two friendly countries to their normal course." The move "will strengthen and activate the Arab role in supporting the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Syrian Arab Republic and to prevent the dangers of regional interference in Syrian Arab affairs," the ministry said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hundreds Of IS Members, Families Surrender In Final Syrian Enclave March 15, 2019 Hundreds of Islamic State (IS) militants and family members surrendered as U.S.-backed Syrian rebel forces moved closer to crushing the militants in their final sliver of territory in the eastern part of the country. "Around 1,300 terrorists and their families surrendered to our forces today amid our operations against the terrorist Daesh organization," Mustafa Bali, a spokesman for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), said in a tweet on March 14, using an alternate name for IS. The SDF, a Kurdish-led rebel force backed by U.S.-led coalition air support, moved closer to its goal of wiping out the last vestiges of the militants' so-called "caliphate" that once sprawled across Syria and neighboring Iraq. Fighting centered around the village of Baghouz near the Iraqi border. An AFP reporter said most of the men surrendering appeared to be wounded. "Those who stayed inside [the camp] are mostly suicide bombers blowing themselves up, which is impeding the advance," said Jiaker Amed, a spokesman for the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG), a key element of the SDF. The SDF said some 3,000 IS members had surrendered since March 10. The United States and Turkey back differing antigovernment rebel groups in Syria's eight-year civil war, while Russia and Iran support President Bashar al-Assad's government. The United States is in the process of pulling most of its troops out of Syria, a move that has caused concerns among allied Kurdish fighters. Based on reporting by AFP, Reuters, and dpa Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/hundreds-of-is- members-families-surrender-in-final-syrian -enclave/29822801.html Copyright (c) 2019. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taiwan blocks Chinese website over security concerns ROC Central News Agency 2019/03/15 22:46:20 Taipei, March 15 (CNA) Taiwan's National Communications Commission (NCC) said Friday it has blocked a Chinese website promoting Beijing's "31 Measures," which are aimed at attracting more Taiwanese to work, study, live or start businesses in China. The move was made based on national security concerns, a NCC official said, noting that it had been notified by relevant national security agencies to request the Taiwan Network Information Center (TWNIC) to shut off the web domain www.31t.tw by the end of the day. As of 7:30 p.m., Internet users in Taiwan were no longer able to access the Chinese website. China issued the measures last year to attract more Taiwanese to go to the mainland and win over the public, but they have generally been described as propaganda in favor of Beijing's cause to annex the island. According to the official, the website was shut down for violating Article 34 of the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area. The article stipulates that the content of the goods and services provided by the mainland Area shall not have any political propaganda for the Chinese Communist Party, nor violate any current mainland policy, law or regulation of the government. On Friday, Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) welcomed the ban, noting that the measure was taken based solely on security considerations. MAC spokesperson Chiu Chui-cheng () told CNA that the Chinese website contains communist party propaganda and is a magnet for social unrest and public complaints. The ban was purely an isolated case and the government will not seek to inspect or block any Internet webpage for no apparent reason, Chiu said, adding that the freedom of speech will always be valued and cherished in Taiwan. The "31 Measures" website was found to be registered under a company operated by the Taiwan Affairs Office under China's State Council, an administrative agency responsible for setting and implementing guidelines and policies related to Taiwan. (By Miao Zong-han, Liu Lee-jung and Ko Lin) Enditem/cs NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Brussels Will Agree to Brexit Delay, With Conditions By Jamie Dettmer March 15, 2019 European Union leaders are warning that their Brexit patience is wearing thin and, with just two weeks to go before Britain is scheduled to leave the EU, they're poised to grant more time for the country to do so but likely with tough conditions attached. The conditions may include Britain holding another Brexit referendum, if the extension needed eventually is a lengthy one, warn EU officials despite the fact the Britain's House of Commons voted Thursday against a re-run plebiscite, at least in the foreseeable future. Britain's embattled prime minister, Theresa May, will ask the EU's 27 other national leaders on March 21 to delay Brexit until at least the end of June. She hopes by that time to have won backing for her contentious Brexit withdrawal agreement, which has been rejected overwhelmingly by the British parliament twice, and is planning Tuesday to seek yet again House of Commons approval for a deal she spent a better part of two years negotiating in fraught and tetchy talks with the EU. Even if she's successful, Britain would need extra time to complete the necessary legislation to exit the bloc. But few observers believe she'll get the doubly-defeated deal approved by a deadlocked British parliament that is if the house speaker allows her to bring the deal back for another try. Under parliamentary rules a government is not meant to bring back a measure repeatedly. It is likely the last throw of the Brexit dice for the embattled British leader, who's been scorched by humiliation and has all but lost control of her government and ruling Conservative party, admit some her of aides. Her critics say she's in office but not in power, and up to 14 would-be Conservative contenders are already maneuvering to replace the broken prime minister. With parliament this week saying it does not want to leave with May's deal but that it also doesn't want to exit the bloc without a deal, Brexit has come to a grinding halt, prompting the exasperation of EU leaders, who in some ways are as trapped as British lawmakers and fervently want to see an end to the draining Brexit process. But the EU's national leaders are equally worried about Britain exiting without a deal, which would cause significant economic harm to parts of the bloc, especially to Ireland, France, Belgium and The Netherlands. European Council President Donald Tusk Thursday said his preference was for a long delay of a year or even more and is urging EU leaders to consider that on the grounds Britain is far from a consensus on any Brexit plan and needs considerable time to shape one. EU national leaders must unanimously approve any extension, which they will formally consider on Thursday (March 21) at a summit in Brussels. If May prevails and cudgels the British parliament into endorsing her deal, a short technical extension to allow time for Britain to complete the legislation needed to exit is unlikely to prove a problem, EU officials told VOA. And EU national leaders are publicly indicating as much, too. Poland's foreign minister, Jacek Czaputowicz, told reporters "maybe we will have to meet the needs of the British authorities and the public and extend that period a little bit, maybe a little more time is needed for reflection." Italian and Spanish officials have also indicated they won't block a short technical extension. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar also said the EU needs to be open to any British request and "listen attentively and be generous in our response." He added an extension "reduces the likelihood of a cliff-edge, no-deal Brexit on March 29." But a lengthy extension will be more challenging, say EU officials. EU leaders will want a clear strategy outlining what purpose the extension will serve and will want to know what would materially change an indication that a second referendum or an election would be held or of a forthcoming change of prime minister would satisfy that requirement. Although the EU-27 now has the upper hand, analysts say, Brussels will need to be careful not to back Theresa May into a corner. A large part of May's party wants to bolt without a deal, eager to break free entirely of the Continent. In the long run Britain would be better off, hardline Brexiters argue, despite the immediate massive economic shock that would involve. Brexiters fear a lengthy extension, worried that it will be used by pro-EU Remainers to sabotage Britain ever leaving. Remainers want a long delay to try to steer Britain in a gentler direction, ending with the country still closely aligned with the EU although not a member of its political institutions. A further complexity with a lengthy extension is what to do with Britain when it comes to the European elections in May. If Britain is still an EU member it needs to field candidates for the European Parliament and centrist European politicians fear that will result in more anti-EU British members of the European Parliament being elected. Luxembourg's finance minister, Pierre Gramegna, doesn't relish that prospect, saying Thursday it is "unthinkable" Britain would be allowed to delay its exit beyond the European elections. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S., EU Impose New Sanctions On Russia Over Ukraine By Rikard Jozwiak, RFE/RL March 15, 2019 The United States, together with the European Union and Canada, imposed new sanctions on March 15 on more than a dozen Russian officials and businesses in response to the country's "continued aggression in Ukraine." "Today's action targets individuals and entities playing a role in Russia's unjustified attacks on Ukrainian naval vessels in the Kerch Strait, the purported annexation of Crimea, and backing of illegitimate separatist government elections in eastern Ukraine," the U.S. Treasury said in a March 15 statement. Six officials were targeted, along with six Russian defense companies, and two Russian energy and construction firms operating in Crimea. The six defense firms operating in Crimea were targeted for misappropriating Ukrainian state assets to provide services to the Russian military during the 2014 annexation, it said. Four of the six Russian officials targeted by the measure were involved in the attack near the Kerch Strait attack in November off the coast of Crimea, the Treasury said. Moscow has said the three Ukrainian Navy vessels had illegally entered Russian territorial waters, a claim denied by Kyiv. "The United States and our transatlantic partners will not allow Russia's continued aggression against Ukraine to go unchecked," said Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. "This joint initiative with our partners in the European Union and Canada reinforces our shared commitment to impose targeted and meaningful sanctions in response to the Kremlin's attempts to disregard international norms and undermine Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," he added. Earlier in Brussels, the European Union added eight Russian officials to its sanctions list for their involvement in the November attack. The EU sanctions, imposed after Russia seized control of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula in March 2014 and began supporting separatists in eastern Ukraine, now includes 170 individuals and 44 entities. Among the most senior officials added to the EU blacklist on March 15 were Sergei Stankevich, a high-ranking FSB officer in Crimea, his deputy Andrei Shein, as well as Colonel General Aleksandr Dvornikov who is the head of the southern military district of the Russian armed forces. Three naval commanders and two captains were also sanctioned. According to several sources who spoke to RFE/RL under condition of anonymity, Admiral Gennady Medvedev, who is the deputy Head of the Border Service of the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation was initially due to be included to the sanctions list with the other eight Russians. Diplomats said Finland had refused to add him. When approached by RFE/RL, the Finnish permanent representative to the European Union responded: "We cannot comment individual position of any member state, neither our own, so we will not comment." Medvedev has reportedly been involved in border cooperation efforts between Russia and Finland. Plus, he took part in a so-called "Arctic forum of coast guards" in Finland last year. The conflict between Ukrainian government forces and Moscow-backed separatists has left some 13,000 people dead since April 2014. With reporting by Rikard Jozwiak in Brussels, AP, and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/eu-slaps-sanctions- on-russians-involved-in-seizing-ukrainian-naval -vessels-crew/29823166.html Copyright (c) 2019. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US, Canada Expand Anti-Russia Sanctions Over Ukraine Sputnik News 18:24 15.03.2019(updated 19:21 15.03.2019) The last expansion of anti-Russia sanctions by the US occurred in January 2018, when 21 individuals and 12 entities were added to the sanctions list. The US has imposed sanctions targeting 6 Russian nationals, including Board Guard Service Deputy Director Medvedev, the notice from Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control stated on Friday. At the same time, new sanctions have been imposed on 8 enterprises for their alleged role in the Ukrainian crisis. According to the US State Department, Washington's new set of restrictions have been introduced in coordination with the European Union and Canada. Commenting on the reason behind the fresh sanctions introduction, the State Department referred to last year's Kerch Strait incident. Later in the day, the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a press release that Canada has also imposed its new sanctions targeting more than 100 Russian individuals and 15 entities in response to the Kerch Strait incident and Crimea's reunification with Russia. "In coordination with the European Union and the United States, Canada is today announcing new sanctions in response to Russia's aggressive actions in the Black Sea and Kerch Strait and Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea," the release said. "The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs, is announcing these sanctions on 114 individuals and 15 entities, under the Special Economic Measures Act." On 25 November, Ukraine's Berdyansk and Nikopol gunboats and the Yany Kapu tugboat illegally crossed the Russian maritime border as they sailed toward the Kerch Strait, the entrance to the Sea of Azov. Russia seized the Ukrainian vessels and detained 24 people on board after they failed to respond to demands to stop. After the incident, a criminal case on illegal border crossing was opened in Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin called the incident a provocation, noting that there were members of the Ukrainian security service, who were in charge of the operation, on board the Ukrainian vessels. According to Putin, the provocation was prepared in advance as a pretext to declare martial law in Ukraine, which was announced after the incident and lasted for a month. Many considered the situation as Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko's attempt to shore up his falling approval ratings ahead of the March presidential election. In 2014, the US imposed sanctions against Russia for the first time following the unfolding of the Ukrainian crisis. The sanctions have since been expanded several times to include more individuals, entities and entire economic sectors. The most recent expansion took place in January last year, when 21 individuals and 12 entities were added to the sanctions list. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Treasury Sanctions Russia over Continued Aggression in Ukraine U.S. Department of the Treasury March 15, 2019 OFAC takes action in partnership with the EU and Canada Washington Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated six Russian individuals and eight entities in response to Russia's continued and ongoing aggression in Ukraine. Today's action targets individuals and entities playing a role in Russia's unjustified attacks on Ukrainian naval vessels in the Kerch Strait, the purported annexation of Crimea, and backing of illegitimate separatist government elections in eastern Ukraine. These actions complement sanctions also taken today by the European Union and Canada, and underscore the strength and commitment of the transatlantic partnership to counter Russia's continued destabilizing behavior and malign activities. "The United States and our transatlantic partners will not allow Russia's continued aggression against Ukraine to go unchecked. This joint initiative with our partners in the European Union and Canada reinforces our shared commitment to impose targeted and meaningful sanctions in response to the Kremlin's attempts to disregard international norms and undermine Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," said Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin. "The international community is strongly aligned against Russia's naval attacks in the Kerch Straight, purported annexation of Crimea, and support for the illegitimate separatist-conducted elections in eastern Ukraine." Overview Five years after its invasion of Ukraine and its attempted annexation of Crimea, Russia continues to undermine Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity while failing to implement its obligations under the Minsk agreements. On November 25, 2018, Russian authorities opened fire on and rammed three Ukrainian ships off the coast of Crimea, seizing the ships and capturing 24 Ukrainian crew members, who remain illegally detained in Russia. Russia also continues its occupation of Crimea, and the Kremlin has also backed illegitimate elections held by Ukrainian separatists in the so-called Donetsk People's Republic on November 11, 2018. As a result of today's designations, all property and interests in property of the designated individuals and entities are blocked, and U.S. persons are generally prohibited from transacting with them. Moreover, any entities owned 50 percent or more by these designated persons are also blocked by operation of law. Designations Related to Russia's Attack in the Kerch Strait OFAC today sanctioned four Russian officials who were involved in the Kerch Strait attack. OFAC designated Gennadiy Medvedev, the Deputy Director of the Border Guard Service of Russia's Federal Security Service; Sergey Stankevich, the Head of the Border Directorate of Russia's Federal Security Service; and Andrey Shein, the Deputy Head of the Border Directorate and Head of the Coast Guard Unit of Russia's Federal Security Service. Medvedev and Stankevich directly controlled and organized the attack against the Ukrainian ships and their crew, while Shein participated in the operation against the seized Ukrainian ships and crew. OFAC also designated Ruslan Romashkin, the Head of the Service Command Point of the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation for the Republic of Crimea and Sevastopol. Medvedev, Stankevich, Shein, and Romashkin are being designated pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13661 for being officials of the Government of the Russian Federation. Designations Related to Russia's Purported Annexation of Crimea Today's action also targets six Russian defense firms with operations in Crimea, several of which misappropriated Ukrainian state assets to provide services to the Russian military. Four of these entities are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13662 for operating in the defense and related materiel sector of the Russian Federation economy, and two entities are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13685 for operating in the Crimea region of Ukraine. Yaroslavsky Shipbuilding Plant is a Russian state-owned shipbuilding plant that has built vessels for Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) and the Russian Ministry of Defense. Yaroslavsky Shipbuilding Plant is also the project developer for a naval vessel that was completed at the Federal SUE Shipyard "Morye" in Crimea. Yaroslavsky Shipbuilding Plant is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13662 for operating in the defense or related materiel sector of the Russian Federation economy. Zelenodolsk Shipyard Plant, named after A.M. Gorky, is one of the largest ship manufacturers in Russia and has produced missile frigates and corvettes for the Russian Navy. The Zelenodolsk Shipyard Plant has collaborated with Crimea-based enterprise Skloplastic, which was unlawfully nationalized by the Russian government following its illegal invasion of Crimea in 2014. The Zelenodolsk Shipyard Plant is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13662 for operating in the defense and related materiel sector of the Russian Federation economy. AO Kontsern Okeanpribor (Okeanpribor) is a producer of hydroacoustic equipment and has supplied components to the Russian Navy. Okeanpribor has also collaborated on a naval project at the Federal SUE Shipyard "Morye" in Crimea. Federal SUE Shipyard "Morye" was designated by OFAC on September 1, 2016. Okeanpribor is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13662 for operating in the defense and related materiel sector of the Russian Federation economy. PAO Zvezda (Zvezda) is a supplier of diesel engines to the Russian Navy. Zvezda has also supplied components for Russian naval vessels that were being built at the Federal SUE Shipyard "Morye" in Crimea. Zvezda is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13662 for operating in the defense and related materiel sector of the Russian Federation economy. AO Zavod Fiolent (Fiolent) is a Crimea-based electronics manufacturer that has supplied parts for use in Russian military equipment. Fiolent was unlawfully seized by the Russian Federation following its annexation of Crimea in 2014. Fiolent is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13685 for operating in the Crimea region of Ukraine. GUP RK KTB Sudokompozit (Sudokompozit) is a Crimea-based producer of defense components that are supplied for Russian military use. Sudokompozit was unlawfully seized by the Russian Federation following its annexation of Crimea in 2014. Sudokompozit is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13685 for operating in the Crimea region of Ukraine. OFAC also designated the following two entities pursuant to E.O. 13685, due to their activities in Crimea. LLC SK Consol-Stroi LTD is being designated for operating in the Crimea region of Ukraine. LLC SK Consol-Stroi LTD, a limited liability company registered in the city of Simferopol, Crimea, is one of Crimea's largest construction companies. LLC SK Consol-Stroi LTD is engaged in the construction of residential and commercial real estate in cities throughout the Crimea region including, among others, Feodosia, Kerch, Yalta, Simferopol, Sevastopol, and Yepatoria. LLC Novye Proekty is being designated for operating in the Crimea region of Ukraine. In 2016, Russian authorities awarded the private company Novye Proekty an oil and gas exploration license for the Crimean Black Sea shelf. The Crimean shelf is believed to be rich in hydrocarbons and authorities in Ukraine have reported that Ukraine lost about 80 percent of its oil and gas deposits in the Black Sea due to Russia's purported annexation of Crimea. Novye Proekty's license permits geological studies, prospecting, and the extraction of raw hydrocarbon materials from the Black Sea's Glubokaya block. Prior to Russia's purported annexation of Crimea the Glubokaya block was estimated to hold reserves of 8.3 million tons of crude and 1.4 billion cubic meters of natural gas. Designations Related to Illegitimate Separatist Government Elections in Ukraine Today's action also targets two Ukrainian separatists who were involved in the organization of the November 2018 illegitimate elections in the so-called Donetsk People's Republic. These illegitimate elections clearly contradict Russia's commitments under the Minsk agreements, and were strongly opposed by the United States and EU. Aleksey Alekseevich Naydenko is the Deputy Chair of the Central Election Commission of the so-called Donetsk People's Republic. Naydenko is being designated for being responsible for or complicit in, or having engaged in, directly or indirectly, actions or policies that threaten the peace, security, stability, sovereignty, or territorial integrity of Ukraine. Vladimir Yurievich Vysotsky is the Secretary of Central Election Commission of the so-called Donetsk People's Republic. Vysotsky is being designated for being responsible for or complicit in, or having engaged in, directly or indirectly, actions or policies that threaten the peace, security, stability, sovereignty, or territorial integrity of Ukraine. View identifying information on the individuals designated today. #### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Secretary statement on international sanctions in response to Russian aggression in the Black Sea The Foreign Secretary welcomes action taken by the EU, Australia, Canada and the US 15 March 2019 The EU, together with Australia, Canada and the US, has imposed sanctions on individuals for their role in Russia's use of military force against 3 Ukrainian vessels and their crew in the Kerch Strait and Black Sea in November 2018. The EU sanctions will prevent named individuals from travelling within the EU, and freeze any known assets linked to them in the EU. The UK has consistently stood with Ukraine in opposing this attack and all instances of Russian aggression towards Ukraine, including Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea five years ago. We will continue to do so together with our international partners. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said: "Today, the UK and our international partners in the EU, Australia, Canada and the US have sent an unequivocal message to Russia that their attack on Ukrainian vessels in the Kerch Strait and Black Sea last year was absolutely unacceptable. These sanctions are another example of the international community standing up to Russia as it persistently violates international law. We will continue to take necessary action together in response to Russia's efforts to destabilise Ukraine." "Russia must immediately release the 24 detained servicemen and return the seized vessels. We remain deeply concerned for the safety and welfare of the servicemen who are unjustly held in Russian custody. Russia must allow free and unhindered passage of Ukrainian and international ships through the Kerch Strait and the Sea of Azov." "We, with our international partners, stand with Ukraine in opposing Russia's ongoing efforts to undermine Ukrainian security, sovereignty and territorial integrity." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US to Test Conventional Ground-Launched Missile Amid INF Withdrawal - Pentagon Sputnik News 22:28 15.03.2019(updated 23:06 15.03.2019) WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The United States is prepared to test a conventional ground-launched missile amid its withdrawal from the Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, Pentagon spokesperson Lt. Col. Michelle Baldanza told Sputnik on Friday. "In the unlikely event Russia returns to full and verifiable compliance before the end of the six month period, we will rescind our suspension and planned withdrawal from the Treaty. But absent such a change in Russia's conduct, our decision to withdraw from the Treaty will stand, and the Treaty will end," Baldanza said. "We must be prepared for this eventuality. Our preparations along these lines include plans to test a conventional ground-launched missile." According to recent media reports, Washington is planning to test missiles, previously banned under the INF treaty, later this year. New cruise missiles may be deployed within some 18 months, according to reports. Baldanza said she could not provide any exact timelines of the prototype fabrication process because "there are many factors that could come into play." Earlier the Hill reported cited unnamed defense officials that a new cruise missile is scheduled to be tested in August, while a longer-range ballistic missile will be tested later in November. The new cruise missile is supposed to have a range of 1,000 kilometers, while the ballistic missile will have a range of 3,000 to 4,000 kilometers, the officials said as cited by the Hill. Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Thursday that the US prospective tests of missiles previously banned under the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) would be a logical continuation of Washington's policy to demolish the agreement. On 2 February, the United States formally suspended its obligations under the INF Treaty and launched the withdrawal process, which would be completed within six months unless Moscow remedies its alleged violations of the bilateral arms control deal. At the same day Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that Moscow also suspended its obligations under the treaty in response to the US move. Russia has repeatedly denied the allegations that the missile violates the treaty, pointing out that American missile defence systems deployed in Europe can be re-purposed for offensive use and therefore are themselves violating the accord. The INF Treaty was signed by the Soviet Union and the US in 1987, and provides for the elimination of all nuclear-armed ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles that operate at ranges of between 500 and 5,500 kilometres. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Withdraws from El Penon Option Agreement Cancels Incentive Stock Options VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Centenera Mining Corporation (Centenera or the Company) - (TSXV: CT, OTCQB: CTMIF) announces that pursuant to previous news releases dated September 5, 2018 (NR18-11) and February 11, 2019 (NR19-01), the Company has signed amending agreements to three previously executed option agreements (the Option Agreements) whereby, subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval, Centenera will be granted the right to acquire up to a 100% interest in eight precious metals properties (the Properties) from an arms length party, Tres Cerros Exploraciones S.R.L (Tres Cerros). The Properties are all located within the highly prospective Deseado Massif in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina, and together comprise more than 30,000 hectares. Under the terms of the Option Agreements, Centenera will be granted an exclusive option (the Option) to acquire a 100% interest in the Properties by way of staged cash and common share payments, subject to a net smelter returns (NSR) royalty in favour of Tres Cerros. Details of Option Agreements The Option Agreements provide that, subject to certain conditions, including TSX Venture Exchange (TSX-V) acceptance, Centenera will be granted the Option to acquire a 100% interest in the Properties, subject to a NSR royalty in favour of Tres Cerros. The three Option Agreements relate to the property groups set out below (Property Groups) as follows: Property Group Properties Property Group #1 Cerro Bayo & La Flora Properties Property Group #2 Aylen, Aylen Oeste & Pedro Properties Property Group #3 Fiorentina, Fiorentina Norte & Aguila Mora Properties The Option is structured as a two-stage option, whereby Centenera can earn an initial 80% interest (the First Option), followed by the remaining 20% interest (the Second Option), subject to certain royalty conditions. During the Option period, Centenera will be responsible for maintaining the exploration concessions and permits comprising the Properties in good standing, and paying all fees and assessments, and taking such other steps required to do so. There will be no other work commitments, and any work carried out on the Properties will be at the sole discretion of Centenera. As part of the earn-in commitment for each Property Group, Centenera will be required to deliver to Tres Cerros a single technical report in accordance with NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101), with the subject property being the more advanced of the Properties in each of the Property Groups. The earn-in terms for the First Option (for each of the Property Groups) will be as follows under the amended option terms (all dollar amounts are US Dollars): Property Group #1; Cerro Bayo & La Flora Properties Date Cash Payments Centenera Shares Cumulative Earned Interest 5 business days from conditional TSX-V acceptance (the Effective Date) $12,500 -- -- First anniversary of the Effective Date $25,000 350,000 -- Second anniversary of the Effective Date $50,000 450,000 -- Third anniversary of the Effective Date $75,000 550,000 35% Fourth anniversary of the Effective Date $100,000 950,000 51% Fifth anniversary of the Effective Date $200,000 1,300,000 71% Sixth anniversary of the Effective Date $500,000 1,800,000 80% TOTAL: $962,500 5,400,000 -- Property Group #2; Aylen, Aylen Oeste & Pedro Properties Date Cash Payments Centenera Shares Cumulative Earned Interest 5 business days from conditional TSX-V acceptance (the Effective Date) $12,500 -- -- First anniversary of the Effective Date $25,000 350,000 -- Second anniversary of the Effective Date $50,000 450,000 -- Third anniversary of the Effective Date $75,000 550,000 35% Fourth anniversary of the Effective Date $100,000 950,000 51% Fifth anniversary of the Effective Date $200,000 1,300,000 71% Sixth anniversary of the Effective Date $500,000 1,700,000 80% TOTAL: $962,500 5,300,000 -- Property Group #3; Fiorentina, Fiorentina Norte & Aguila Mora Properties Date Cash Payments Centenera Shares Cumulative Earned Interest 5 business days from conditional TSX-V acceptance (the Effective Date) $12,500 -- -- First anniversary of the Effective Date $25,000 350,000 -- Second anniversary of the Effective Date $50,000 450,000 -- Third anniversary of the Effective Date $75,000 550,000 35% Fourth anniversary of the Effective Date $100,000 950,000 51% Fifth anniversary of the Effective Date $200,000 1,300,000 71% Sixth anniversary of the Effective Date $500,000 1,700,000 80% TOTAL: $962,500 5,300,000 -- The aggregate acquisition cost of the First Option after six years for all three Property Groups will be USD $2,887,500 payable in cash, and 16,000,000 common shares in the capital of Centenera issued to Tres Cerros over a period of 6 years. Other than the initial $12,500 cash payment (aggregate $37,500 for all the Property Groups), Centenera will not be obligated to make any payments or issue any stock to Tres Cerros. For a period of 120 days after the exercise of the First Option for each Property Group, Centenera will have the Second Option to acquire the remaining 20% (aggregate 100%) interest in that Property Group, by making a cash payment of $400,000 and issuing shares in the capital of Centenera valued at $400,000 to Tres Cerros, subject to a 0.75% NSR royalty, of which two-thirds of the royalty (0.5%) can be purchased at any time for $1,000,000. If Centenera elects not to exercise the Second Option, the parties will be deemed to have entered into a joint venture (JV), with the initial participating interests of Centenera being 80% and Tres Cerros being 20%. In the event that either partys participating interest falls below 10% then that partys interest will be converted to a 1% NSR royalty, one half of which (0.5%) can be purchased by the other party for $1,000,000. The Properties are all located within the prospective Deseado Massif. The Deseado Massif is a Jurassic age volcanic plateau covering 60,000km2 and hosting valuable epithermal precious metals deposits. El Penon Withdrawal The Company also announces that it has withdrawn from the El Penon option agreement, under which the Company had the right to acquire a 100% interest in the El Penon property located in San Juan Province, Argentina. During the course of the option period, the Company completed stream sediment sampling, rock sampling and mapping. Following review of the Companys property portfolio, it was determined that the El Penon property should be relinquished and returned to the underlying owner. Incentive Stock Options The Company also announces that it has cancelled an aggregate of 7,710,000 incentive stock options (the Cancelled Options) previously held by certain officers, directors, employees and consultants of the Company. The Cancelled Options represent all of the previously outstanding option grants issued under the Companys stock option plan (the Option Plan). The Cancelled Options were voluntarily surrendered by the holders thereof for no consideration. Under the Option Plan, the Company may grant up to 10% of the currently issued and outstanding common shares. Qualified Person Keith J. Henderson, P.Geo., is the Company's qualified person as defined by NI 43-101 and has reviewed the scientific and technical information that forms the basis for portions of this news release. He has approved the disclosure herein. Mr. Henderson is not independent of the Company, as he is an employee of the Company and holds securities of the Company. About Centenera Mining Corporation Centenera is a mineral resource company trading on the TSX-V under the symbol CT and on the OTCQB exchange under the symbol CTMIF. The Company is focused 100% on mineral resource assets in Argentina, which include gold, silver, copper-gold and lithium assets. Centeneras assets are located in Salta, San Juan and Santa Cruz Provinces, which are widely recognized as being favourable jurisdictions for mining and exploration. On Behalf of the Board of Directors of CENTENERA MINING CORPORATION "Keith Henderson" President & CEO For further details on the Company readers are referred to the Company's web site ( www.centeneramining.com ) and its Canadian regulatory filings on SEDAR at www.sedar.com . For further information, please contact: Keith Henderson Phone: 604-638-3456 E-mail: info@centeneramining.com Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities legislation, including the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, statements regarding the negotiation of the Option Agreements and exercise of the Option for the Properties, the anticipated content, commencement, timing and cost of exploration programs in respect of the Properties and otherwise, anticipated exploration program results from exploration activities, and the Company's expectation that it will be able to enter into agreements to acquire interests in additional mineral properties, the discovery and delineation of mineral deposits/resources/reserves on the Properties, and the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Often, but not always, forward looking information can be identified by words such as "pro forma", "plans", "expects", "may", "should", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", "potential" or variations of such words including negative variations thereof, and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, that it will be able to negotiate the Option Agreements and that it will obtain TSX-V acceptance for filing of thereof, market fundamentals will result in sustained precious metals demand and prices, the receipt of any necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals in connection with the future development of the Companys Argentine projects in a timely manner, the availability of financing on suitable terms for the development, construction and continued operation of the Company projects, and the Companys ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such risks and other factors include, among others, operating and technical difficulties in connection with mineral exploration and development and mine development activities at the Properties, including the geological mapping, prospecting and sampling programs being proposed for the Properties (the "Programs"), the fact that the Companys anticipated interests in the Properties will only be an option and there is no guarantee that such interest, if earned, will be certain, actual results of exploration activities, including the Programs, estimation or realization of mineral reserves and mineral resources, the timing and amount of estimated future production, costs of production, capital expenditures, the costs and timing of the development of new deposits, the availability of a sufficient supply of water and other materials, requirements for additional capital, future prices of precious metals and copper, changes in general economic conditions, changes in the financial markets and in the demand and market price for commodities, possible variations in ore grade or recovery rates, possible failures of plants, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated, accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry, delays or the inability of the Company to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required, including TSX-V acceptance for filing of the Option Agreements, any current or future property acquisitions, financing or other planned activities, changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting mining operations, hedging practices, currency fluctuations, title disputes or claims limitations on insurance coverage and the timing and possible outcome of pending litigation, environmental issues and liabilities, risks related to joint venture operations, and risks related to the integration of acquisitions, as well as those factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's latest Management Discussion and Analysis and other filings of the Company with the Canadian Securities Authorities, copies of which can be found under the Company's profile on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward looking statements. Except as otherwise required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking information in this news release or incorporated by reference herein. The news of the college admissions scheme allegedly involving Hollywood stars and their kids is so painful because it strikes at the very heart of our beliefs of fairness and our American Dream: that even the most disadvantaged among us can make it to the top if we work hard enough. The allegations this week revealed that people at the highest income levels sought to ensure their kids were admitted to the prestigious colleges, taking the place of those who should have been admitted after years of hard work and saving. These Hollywood stars preach to us in their political endorsements of candidates the importance of fairness and aid to the poor and middle class and are critical of our leaders for their poor role models. SPEED READ: Foxconn announced that it likely won't meet its job target for a manufacturing plant in Wisconsin. According to a University of Texas at Austin study, in 25 percent of cases, the state changed the terms of corporate deals after the fact. These broken promises are often not revealed to the public. Three weeks after Amazon announced it would back out of plans to build a second headquarters in New York City, Mayor Bill de Blasio and Gov. Andrew Cuomo are still lobbying to woo the company back in hopes of getting the 25,000 jobs and billions in community investment that it promised.But there's no guarantee a company will deliver on its job promise in the first place. In fact, new research shows that it's not rare for companies to end up lowering their job targets after inking a tax incentives deal with the state. Most recently, global electronics maker Foxconn announced that it likely won't meet the job target for a manufacturing plant in Racine County, Wis.Foxconn's voluntary announcement is an anomaly, though. More often than not, these broken promises aren't made public. In some cases, they're broken after the incentives are already given out.In New York, for instance, a 2016 audit of the state Excelsior Jobs Program -- the same incentives program used for the state's Amazon bid -- found that economic development staff regularly lowered the number of jobs required in contracts when companies were about to fall short of meeting those targets. "New York state gives away millions of dollars each year in tax breaks for companies that are supposed to create jobs and expand under the Excelsior program," said State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli in a press release at the time. "Oversight leaves a lot to be desired."It's difficult to determine how common such changes are because they're usually only revealed in audits. But a new University of Texas at Austin study on the transparency of economic development shows how common they are.The study found that in 46 out of 165 cases -- about 25 percent -- the Texas Enterprise Fund, which awards corporate incentives, amended once-finalized contracts for companies receiving tax breaks. In most instances, the number of required jobs were lowered or the schedule for meeting those requirements was changed. And many times, contracts were renegotiated right before a company would be subject to clawback provisions, which would require companies to pay back some of the incentives they received.For example, the banking company Comerica received $3.5 million in 2007 to create 200 jobs and relocate its headquarters from Detroit to Dallas. Five years later, it was allowed to count 15 of its existing executives, including the CEO, toward their job and wage target, provided that these executives relocate to Dallas or Houston. "If you're worried about making the average wage you promised," says Nathan Jensen, the study's author, "adding 15 executives is a great way to ensure you do it."The number of amended tax incentive deals may actually be higher. Many companies challenged the university's public records requests. The university is still waiting on several dozen contracts to be disclosed. "This finding, from a single state, is troubling," says Jensen. "If companies can not only secretly renegotiate the rules, they can also make sure that public records laws shield them from revealing these renegotiations."Foxconn voluntarily releasing its lowered job goals may be a sign, Jensen says, that highly scrutinized megadeals might have more transparency. Although, he cautions, New York and Virginia both agreed to notify Amazon of any public records requests in their deals with the company in order to give it the opportunity to legally challenge them.Amazon plans to move forward with a headquarters location in Northern Virginia that could bring 25,000 jobs and with an operations center in Nashville that's expected to bring 5,000 jobs. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed legislation Friday requiring background checks for virtually all firearm sales in New Mexico.The bill has been a priority for gun control advocates, who argue the measure merely closes a loophole in state law and will help keep weapons out of the hands of people barred from owning firearms.But gun rights groups have argued the law will do little to prevent crime. Instead, critics contend it infringes on Second Amendment rights. Republicans have announced they will circulate petitions to put a proposal for repealing the law to a statewide vote.Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, dismissed the criticism Friday."It's clear to me that the NRA isn't going to stop trying to meddle in making this a safer state," she told reporters, referring to the National Rifle Association, which opposes the bill.And as for the argument that the bill limits constitutional rights, the governor countered: "We all have a constitutional right to be safe in our homes and our communities."While those holding federal firearm licenses -- including people who own gun stores -- by law must conduct background checks whenever they sell a gun, there currently are no such requirements for sales between private individuals.Senate Bill 8, which will take effect in July, makes it a misdemeanor to sell a firearm to just about anyone without a background check.A background check would not be required for sales between law enforcement officers or immediate family members.And the law would not apply to antique firearms or to devices like emergency flares and construction tools.But neighbors or people who meet online, for example, would have to arrange a background check through a federal firearms license holder.Twenty states and the District of Columbia have extended the background check requirement beyond federal law to cover at least some private sales, according to the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, which supports such legislation.Research on the effectiveness of such laws has produced varied results.An analysis a decade ago by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives suggested that background check laws can help curb weapons trafficking. A 2017 review of research said background check laws seemed to decrease firearm homicide rates. A survey by the Rand Corp. that same year found evidence of the effect of private-seller background checks on firearm homicides is inconclusive.Meanwhile, officials in 25 of New Mexico's 33 counties have adopted "Second Amendment Sanctuary" declarations as of Wednesday, effectively refusing to enforce the new law."Clearly, Santa Fe is out of touch," Rep. Rod Montoya, R-Farmington, said Thursday.House Republicans are launching an effort to get the issue on a statewide ballot and give voters a choice to repeal it. The idea is based on a provision of the state Constitution. Even if it is possible, critics of the bill would need tens of thousands of signatures to make it happen.Several other gun control bills are wending through the Legislature.The Senate passed SB 328 on Wednesday, for example, which would take guns from domestic abusers and stalkers.For Taos Mayor Dan Barrone, bills like these are personal."I have three kids, and they almost grew up without a mom because of gun violence," he said after the governor signed SB 8, describing an on-the-job shooting that could have killed his wife.Barrone emphasized that he's a hunter and also has a concealed carry permit.But, he said: "Can we get guns out of the wrong hands?" Health and Human Services: $28 billion Education: $28 billion Transportation and Infrastructure: $13 billion Public Safety and Justice: $9.7 billion Utilities: $9.1 billion Environment and Housing: $8 billion The CIO perspective WASHINGTON, D.C. Hundreds of tech executives that work with state and local government gathered at the annual Beyond the Beltway event on Friday in Tyson's Corner, Va., to get a forecast from experts that follow the activity of the market. A total of $107.6 billion in spending is projected in calendar year 2019 a sign of increased revenues coming into state and local coffers.e.Republic Vice President of Research Joe Morris presented the outlook, based on the research and findings of the research team of the Center for Digital Government.* Morris went on to make more specific IT spending projections for specific verticals within the state and local government market."This is probably the most optimistic that I've ever been about where the market is going," Morris said, noting increases in revenue streams like property taxes. "I think there are going to be tremendous opportunities."Also on hand to provide first-hand accounts of their biggest challenges in running and modernizing their organization's technology were a slate of state and local technology officials. Among their most pressing concerns were attracting and developing a workforce capable of guiding organizational transitions to more modern IT infrastructure.In Detroit, CIO Beth Niblock is competing with major employers like Ford, Chrysler and Quicken Loans, and although the city overhauled its job classifications and compensation structure a few years ago, Niblock suggested that the effort has aged quickly. Niblock also brought up a common challenge in her city, that of extending connectivity to all segments of the population."Sixty percent don't have broadband in their homes and 40 percent don't have data on their phones, so we have to do better," she said.Cybersecurity ranked as job No. 1 to each tech leader in attendance, many sharing their experiences with ransomware that have brought about changes in how they approach the ever-present threat.Chester County, Pa., CIO Glenn Angstadt credited forward-thinking elected officials for IT investments that helped protect the county's assets from a recent ransomware incident. "We had some tools in place to minimize the downside," he said.Atlanta CIO Gary Brantley revealed a back-to-basics IT strategy of "doing the little things very well," focusing on "providing reliable and cost-effective services." The city endured a major ransomware incident last year, prior to Brantley's tenure as CIO, which has had a major impact on his approach. "Weve become extremely intentional about our efforts as it relates to cyber, Brantley said, praising Mayor Keisha Lance Bottom's refusal to pay the ransom.In North Carolina, CIO Eric Boyette makes cybersecurity resources available to counties within the state, adding that the state has helped several counties respond to ransomware attacks of their own. Boyette is also looking to mature the state's use of cloud technologies, announcing an effort to develop partnerships with cloud security brokers to help move the state in that direction.Stephanie Dedmon, Tennessee CIO, revealed that her state is also moving slowly when it comes to cloud, calling their approach "conservative." But as both Dedmon and Boyette indicated, that is the direction they're moving in.And the data reveals that they're not alone in focusing on migrating more IT infrastructure toward the cloud. "Forty-six percent [of CIOs surveyed by the Center for Digital Government] say 50 percent or more of their IT environment can go to the cloud," Morris said, "only 8 to 9 percent of it is there today." (TNS) West Virginia Public Broadcasting has taken a giant step toward a major technology upgrade and assuring that its three public television stations wont go off the air with a major appropriation approved by the state Legislature.Its a gift that will carry West Virginia Public Broadcasting into the future, Educational Broadcasting Authority executive director Chuck Roberts said Tuesday of the $7.36 million appropriation from surplus state Lottery funds (Senate Bill 681).The Legislature approved the supplemental appropriation on the last day of the 60-day regular session on Saturday, and the funding bill is awaiting the governors signature.Thats a major chunk of the $9.5 million WVPB needs to complete Federal Communications Commission-ordered frequency changes for the states three public television channels under the FCCs spectrum repacking mandate, and to upgrade the transmitters to the next generation of high-definition digital broadcasting.Thats enough money to get us going with the deadlines the way they are, Roberts said.In order to free up more broadcast spectrum to keep up with fast-growing demand for wireless broadband, the FCC has ordered more than 1,000 television stations nationwide change their channel assignments. Stations that fail to comply by designated deadlines will no longer be allowed to broadcast.For Public Broadcasting, that means a deadline at the end of this year to move WNPB-TV, in Morgantown, from channel 33 to 34, and the end of 2020 to move WVPB-TV Charleston from channel 34 to 20, and to move WSWP-TV Grandview/Beckley from channel 10 to 8.Since the transmitters have to be changed out, EBA officials decided it makes sense to also upgrade to the next generation of high-definition broadcast technology, ATSC 3.0, at the same time.Besides superior video and audio, the technology provides capacity for more video and audio subchannels, and the ability to transmit telecasts to devices with wireless internet receivers, including computers and cellphones.A key benefit of ATSC, Roberts said, will be the ability to set up a statewide emergency services network that not only would improve the ability to alert residents of pending emergency situations, but would improve communications among first responders and law enforcement, allowing the National Guard, Homeland Security, and county emergency services providers to share communications subchannels.We felt like, since we have to be on the transmitters to change the channels, we ought to take the opportunity to upgrade the technology, he said.Roberts said the $7.36 million appropriation matches the portion of the project costs that eventually will be reimbursed by the FCC.He said that since completion of the upgrades will stretch into the 2020-21 budget year, the hope is that the Legislature will appropriate the remaining $2.14 million to cover total costs next session.In our meetings with the Governors Office, they had talked about breaking that up over two years, he said of the appropriations. Drivers in Louisiana may want to leave their drivers license at home, as long as they remember to take along their phone as they head out the door.The state has recently introduced a digital drivers license that resides on smartphones, making Louisiana an early adopter of technology that moves one of the most ubiquitous pieces of government documentation and identification from wallets to mobile devices.Im all for technology, remarked Rep. Ted James, a state legislator from Baton Rouge, who introduced the bill in 2016 to allow for a digital drivers license. James interest in technology seemed to gel with the states commissioner of motor vehicles who was also interested in exploring technology improvements around drivers' licenses.The bill was passed about two years ago. It then took another year for Envoc , a private software development firm based in Louisiana, to develop the app. The digital license, sometimes referred to as a DDL, officially launched in July 2018.The first thing is folks want to be able to use it for everything, said James. I still encourage people to have a physical drivers license, because its not mandated that other entities accept it, outside of law enforcement, he added. The digital drivers license, which resides on a drivers smartphone, is acceptable by law enforcement in the state. It has also recently been given the green light by the Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control, which means the digital credential in the parlance of technologists and state officials is acceptable identification for the purchase of alcohol and tobacco.But of course the holy grail is TSA to be able to use it at the airport, said Calvin Fabre, founder and president of Envoc. We are talking with them.Some retailers will recognize and accept the digital drivers license, but many are still in the dark as to the apps legitimacy, said James.A store may ask that you produce a physical license. So I encourage people to have both, he added.To get a digital drivers license, Louisiana motorists need to first download the free LA Wallet app, which then sets up the process to get their virtual license, which costs $5.99. So far, about 77,000 people have downloaded the app, with about 41,000, or between 2 and 3 percent of the driving population, who have activated the purchase of the license.Now, this is before any major marketing, said Fabre. We will be starting a big campaign in 2019 to build awareness."Louisiana seems to be ahead of the curve on a trend toward developing digital drivers licenses. Several states are in various stages of development.Iowa is one of the states developing a DDL. Most recently, we have exited the planning stage of the project and are excited to now begin undertaking the development stages of the project, said Mindi Nguyen, project coordinator and liaison for the Iowa mobile drivers license project. "For the current schedule, were looking at an anticipated go-live, or public release, in early spring 2020."Other states like Colorado, Idaho and Maryland, along with the District of Columbia, have piloted digital drivers license projects, however a statewide rollout of those programs has not yet occurred.The digital drivers license in Louisiana has the potential to serve other purposes beyond simply standing in for the physical document, say Envoc officials. The app includes a feature known as VerifyYou , which allows it to verify the validity of another LA Wallet digital license or physical drivers license. So for example, a bouncer outside a bar could conduct a real-time check of a patrons digital drivers license with the DMV.The app will also do that with a physical printed license, which means that I can now scan a physical hard license with my app, and that can go back to the DMV, and verify you in real time, Fabre explained. So now were doing real-time identity verification, using the app, even with the old-school license. It could also be used to verify someone who shows up at your house to perform a service, he added.A next step will be to work out the reciprocity agreements for other states to both develop digital licenses and accept those from Louisiana. Also, the ability to easily verify the validity of a digital drivers license could make the delivery of age-verified products like alcohol purchases easier.We think that this is going to help us pioneer alcohol delivery with Waitr and Uber Eats said Fabre, calling to mind a common restaurant delivery service in the southeastern U.S. So imagine youre ordering a pizza to be delivered to your house, maybe through Domino's or Waitr or Uber Eats. And you want a bottle of wine to go with it. John Boucher is the third person to hold the title of chief information officer in Alaska whether in an acting or permanent capacity since December 2018, but he may hold the title for some time.After months of apparent upheaval in the Alaska Office of Information Technology, Boucher confirmed forlast week that he has been acting CIO since Feb. 14, and the state has also named a new chief information security officer.Boucher said he was not aware of any search for a permanent replacement for his position.Im here as long as Commissioner (Kelly) Tshibaka would like me to serve in this capacity, he said, referring to the head of the Alaska Department of Administration that supervises OIT. If the path that she chooses to take is to openly compete it, I will put my hat in the ring.Boucher was also Alaskas acting CIO for about three months toward the end of 2018, after Bill Vajda resigned in August A career economist with a bachelors degree in economics from the University of Notre Dame, Boucher has had roles in several Alaska state departments over the course of nearly 36 years in public service. According to his LinkedIn profile , he started with more than 17 years as an economic analyst for labor market statistics for the Alaska Department of Labor. For five years he was the project manager of an agency-wide information systems replacement and integration project, Online Resource for the Children of Alaska, for the states Office of Childrens Services; for nine years he was a senior analyst/legislative liaison for the state Office of Management and Budget; and for two years he was the deputy commissioner of the state Department of Administration. Boucher returned to the Office of Management and Budget in 2017, where he spent 18 months as a senior policy analyst, then moved to OIT in September 2018 as the states acting CIO in Vajdas stead.Thats where the recent shakeups started. In December 2018, without a formal announcement, newly elected Gov. Michael Dunleavy appointed a new CIO Peter Zuyus, whose resume reflects a career at telecommunications companies around the country and ownership of a political consulting firm in Alaska, but who declined to answer calls and emails from the press. The office of the governor also declined to return calls requesting comment on Zuyus hire.By mid-February, also without announcement or explanation, Zuyus was out . His contact information on the state website was temporarily replaced by that of Paula Vrana as acting CIO, who did not respond to a request for comment at the time.Zuyus departure followed a series of leadership changes in the Department of Administration. The departments head commissioner, Jonathan Quick, resigned Jan. 24 amid reports that he had lied on his resume. Vrana replaced Quick as acting commissioner for a week until Jan. 31, when Dunleavy chose a full-time replacement in Kelly Tshibaka, a former chief data officer for the U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General and former counsel for the U.S. Department of Justice. Vrana then took over for Zuyus as acting CIO until Feb. 14, when Boucher stepped in.Boucher declined to comment on Zuyus hire, departure or press shyness. A political blog, The Alaska Landmine, connected Zuyus departure in mid-February to missed payments on an $11.6 million contract for cybersecurity services awarded by the state in fall 2018 to California-based Evotek. Boucher would not comment on the Evotek contract, which The Alaska Landmine said has been terminated, or what the state is doing to meet cybersecurity needs for which state officials assigned more than $11 million last year.Were trying to increase and harden our security profile within the resource constraints that we have, he said. Security is a priority for us, so were definitely trying to move forward to the best of our ability.Boucher also confirmed that Alaska has had a new chief information security officer, Mark Breunig, since January. According to his LinkedIn profile , Breunig has also been a project manager at Accenture, a senior manager of IT security at NANA Development Corporation, an IT manager for the municipality of Anchorage and the owner of his own IT security consulting business.As someone who has had a hand in many state departments over three-plus decades, Boucher felt comfortable saying IT in Alaska, in general, is in a challenged state. More specifically he pointed to Administrative Order 284 , an order from then-Gov. Bill Walker in April 2017 consolidating Alaska's IT assets to a standalone agency under the leadership of a state CIO. He said the state is working toward IT services and infrastructure being shared between all its departments, and that process is still ongoing.Were attempting to execute a consolidation to a shared services model where it works and is appropriate, which many of the other states are going through some iteration of the same exercise, he said. Since the beginning of (AO 284), weve moved 140-some positions into the central IT organization from the agencies, the individual departments Weve used the phrase commodity services, such as the delivery of endpoint support, data centers, that kind of stuff. Those are the first moves that we are making in terms of consolidation.Despite AO 284 and recent turnover in OIT, Boucher said he sees no significant difference between the structure of the department now and in 2018.Talking tolast week, he said he would be speaking to the state House finance subcommittee this week on IT projects or initiatives underway, but he declined to elaborate.Alaskas CIO under Walkers administration, Bill Vajda, started a new job on March 4 as CIO of the U.S. Department of the Interior. Charles Leclerc was desperate to get a better result in his first Ferrari qualifying session as he reveals his self-disappointment. Leclerc, 21, will start from fifth tomorrow behind Max Verstappen who split the Ferraris. The man from Monaco topped the timesheets in Q1, but a vital mistake on his final run in Q3 cost him a better result. Looking back at the mistake, Leclerc criticises himself. Im not happy with myself today, I'm very disappointed with myself," Leclerc admitted in an interview on crash.net. "I was not here when I had to be in Q3 and its all up to me. I did a very bad job in the last run of Q3 and unfortunately, it showed itself in the lap time. I just did a mistake in my first lap, I locked the front wheel in the first corner of the second lap, and lost quite a bit of time and then overall the lap was pretty poor. I did some mistakes here and there." SEE ALSO: Reporter questions Vettel's moustache F1 has vowed to "investigate" the jailing of an activist who protested against the Bahrain grand prix. Human rights activists have been putting pressure on the sport to respond after the activist, Najah Yousif, was jailed by the Bahrain regime for "broadcasting false and biased news". F1 was asked to "uphold its commitment to human rights", but the sport's lawyer Sacha Woodward Hill responded by saying the jailing had "nothing to do with the peaceful protest around the Bahrain grand prix". Human Rights Watch dismissed Woodward Hill's response as "absurd". Subsequently, Woodward Hill agreed to meet with Paul Scriven, a member of Britain's House of Lords. "I am relieved that Sacha and formula one have expressed genuine concern and have an open mind to investigate further the particular circumstances which have led to Najah's imprisonment and the violations of her human rights since her arrest," Scriven said. He said a further meeting "with F1" will take place. (GMM) The Chicago Tribune has endorsed former prosecutor Lori Lightfoot for Mayor of Chicago and I couldn't agree more. Toni Preckwinkle is a solid choice and a good manager. But she is part of the old machine which, if you are any student of my cartoons know, is long overdue for a comeuppance. It feels like a great honor, it really does, Lightfoot said of passers-by recognizing her and wishing her well. Coming from where I come from and the journey Ive been on, particularly over this last year, its gratifying that a lot of the hard work by so many people is showing up, because so many people are enthusiastic for change. The US Securities and Exchange Commission charged Volkswagen AG, two of its subsidiaries, and its former CEO, Martin Winterkorn, for defrauding US investors, raising billions of dollars through the corporate bond and fixed income markets while making a series of deceptive claims about the environmental impact of the companys clean diesel fleet. According to the SECs complaint, from April 2014 to May 2015, Volkswagen issued more than $13 billion in bonds and asset-backed securities in the US markets at a time when senior executives knew that more than 500,000 vehicles in the United States grossly exceeded legal vehicle emissions limits, exposing the company to massive financial and reputational harm. The complaint alleges that Volkswagen made false and misleading statements to investors and underwriters about vehicle quality, environmental compliance, and VWs financial standing. By concealing the emissions scheme, Volkswagen reaped hundreds of millions of dollars in benefit by issuing the securities at more attractive rates for the company, according to the complaint. The SECs complaint, filed in the US District Court for the Northern District of California, charges: Volkswagen AG with violating Section 10(b) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange Act) and Rule 10b-5 thereunder, Section 17(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933 (Securities Act), and for control person liability under Section 20(a) of the Exchange Act; Volkswagen Group of America Finance, LLC (VWGoAF) with violating Section 10(b) of the Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5 thereunder and Section 17(a)(2) of the Securities Act; Winterkorn with violating Section 10(b) of the Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5 thereunder, aiding and abetting Volkswagen AGs and VWGoAFs aforementioned violations, and for control person liability under Section 20(a) of the Exchange Act; and VW Credit, Inc. with violating Sections 17(a)(2) and 17(a)(3) of the Securities Act. The SEC complaint seeks permanent injunctions, disgorgement of ill-gotten gains with prejudgment interest, and civil penalties. The complaint also seeks an officer and director bar against Winterkorn. The SECs investigation was conducted by Kevin Wisniewski, Jake Schmidt, Amy Flaherty Hartman, and Daniel Nigro of the Complex Financial Instruments Unit and the Chicago Regional Office, under the supervision of Jeffrey Shank and Daniel Michael, Chief of the Enforcement Divisions Complex Financial Instruments Unit. The litigation is being led by Daniel Hayes. Resources In April of that year, the neighbor and her 4-year-old son came home to find someone had harmed their two huskies. One had had her eye gouged out. 1845 N. Orchard St., Chicago: $5,989,888 | Listed: Nov. 9, 2021 This six-bedroom home has six full bathrooms, two half baths, and a carved limestone and brick exterior. The Christopher Peacock kitchen has Waterworks fixtures, a farmers sink and two Subzero refrigerator/freezers. It also opens to the living room, which leads to an outdoor area with a full kitchen, seating areas, and a wood-burning fireplace. On the second floor, the primary bedroom suite features a dressing room and morning kitchen and an en suite bath with a separate shower and soaking tub. Three additional en suite bedrooms are also on the second floor. Other features include a wine cellar, a library, a media room with a Savant projection and audio system and an attached four-car garage with extra storage. Agent: Carrie McCormick, @properties, 312-961-4612 *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. Regardless of how any business leader personally feels about data-privacy regulations, they seem destined to grow stronger. In December, a coalition of more than 200 banks, retailers and tech companies called on Congress to draft stricter privacy legislation. Coalition members said they believed that all companies should be subject to the same rules, regardless of their size or industry, and that there should be a national standard for data-breach notifications. The fact that private industry was itself calling for legislation is significant. Companies are now acutely aware of the financial and public relations fallout from data breaches, so much so that they are actually asking lawmakers to hold them to higher standards. The public is equally anxious about data privacy. Related: The Very Strong Business Case for Complying With the Worlds Toughest Data Protection Regulation And it's that combination that makes it extremely likely that tougher data regulations are headed down the pipeline. All this comes on the heels of the General Data Protection Regulation's (GDPR) implementation in the European Union last spring, plus the passage of the California Consumer Privacy Act last summer. Congressional Democrats and Republicans are currently butting heads on the issue, with the GOP interested only in a federal law that would supersede any state regulations. What does small business think of all this? Considering that California's law goes into effect in January 2020 and that nearly every other state has proposed various data privacy legislation, small businesses are obviously eager to avoid a potential patchwork of state laws. The regulatory waters are already choppy enough. Some industries, like finance, are accustomed to data regulations. Considering the scope of potential new regulations, that finance sector experience wont count for much, however. For the simple fact is that every company in America needs to prepare for new compliance challenges throughout 2019. Have you thought about what compliance means to you? The costs Most companies expect pending regulations to be modeled on the GDPR that now applies to every business serving customers in the European Union. GDPR levies fines for every single record that is exposed in a breach, meaning fines can run into the millions (or even billions) of euros (do the math for $U.S.). If the size of those numbers is troubling, consider the likelihood of a fine. Forthcoming regulations will obligate companies to take a whole new approach to data and customer engagement. Adjusting to complex, wide-ranging new regulations wont be easy. Companies may be eager to comply but find themselves in trouble because theyre unable. The ever-increasing threat of cybercrime is another worry. Todays hackers are both tenacious and sophisticated, making cybersecurity incredibly difficult to ensure. Following whatever regulations are released wont make companies immune to attack or exempt from fines -- though it will make them better protected than they are today. Making compliance simple and certain We dont yet know what form any new regulations might take or how they would affect individual companies. Luckily, the details are not necessary for businesses to begin building a better approach to compliance. The goal is to make managing compliance simultaneously easier and more consistent. Start with these steps: 1. Collect data from across channels. Dont think of data as "regulated" versus "unregulated." All data is potentially sensitive, so instead of protecting some data, companies should begin protecting all data equally. That starts with busineses being able to collect data from as many sources as possible for storage on one platform thats been standardized for compliance. Related: The Feds and the States Are Embracing Privacy Law; What That Means to Your Business Xerox recognized the value of standardization when, in 2017, it established an Office of Compliance, which strives to create a positive corporate compliance culture by helping employees do diligent work, and ensuring that senior leaders and all members of management send consistent messages. This office also constantly reviews and updates corporate policies to align with evolving regulatory and legal requirements. Such top-down coordination will be essential once fast-moving data in multiple formats becomes subject to privacy laws. Think of it as a dedicated compliance team that's entrusted to stay abreast of each new development and respond accordingly. Companies of all sizes should copy Xerox and make an effort to codify their compliance protocols -- the sooner, the better. Just make sure to stay open to the possibility of procedural changes, as forthcoming regulations will surely require flexibility as they are introduced and enacted. 2. Facilitate internal and external audits. Audits are crucial for compliance. Complying with auditors often means turning over massive amounts of information. Alternately, conducting internal audits allows companies to find and correct issues before the regulators even arrive. In either case, companies need to have on-demand access to all their data; otherwise, any kind of audit is a burden. Having all data on a platform accessible with unified search makes retrieval basically effortless. Nikon understands that a fast response is important -- so much so that it has developed independent systems. These systems enable the company's internal audit department to review compliance with laws and regulations, as well as with internal rules, without interference from operational divisions. An overview of each departments annual activities -- to determine primarily whether divisions' operations are being conducted in accordance with laws and regulations, as well as to create proposals for improvement -- is provided to the companys executive committee and board of directors. Picture how much easier external investigations will be to manage after your company performs numerous dry runs. Practice makes perfect. As regulations evolve over the course of 2019 and beyond, reacting and adapting fast will be key. Get a head start by instituting a system of internal audits as soon as you can. 3. Practice good governance. Regulations dictate how a company must act both before and after a breach. Because of that increased scrutiny, companies must become hyperaware of data security. If, for instance, a breach went undetected, and therefore unreported, the resulting fine could be multiplied. Considering how unpredictable cybersecurity can be, companies need to have plans and policies detailing exactly how to act after a breach. Related: Three Reasons Why Your Startup Needs A Corporate Governance Playbook General Electric helps its global workforce keep compliance top of mind by employing about 800 compliance leaders and more than 600 part-time ombudsmen to serve as sounding boards. Instead of trying to sweep compliance issues under the rug, GE confronts them head-on, ensuring that concerns are heard and addressed, and utilizing a hotline where employees can report any compliance concerns. Workers can also go to their managers with those concerns. The idea is that honest, open dialogue among all parties will stop many problems before they have a chance to start. Every company should follow GE's lead. Sure, you likely don't have hundreds of employees to commit to the task, but having a layered network of oversight will help eliminate blind spots and stay on top of new legislation. Avoiding hefty fines and negative publicity is important, but penalties are not the core reason to care about compliance in 2019. What is: Customers care about their private data and are tired of seeing companies misuse it. In that way, regulators are paving a path for companies to thrive in a future economy driven entirely by data. Related: Copyright 2019 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved A couple of days ago we reported that Spotify is filing a complaint against Apple with the European Commission for unfair practices. Spotify claimed that Apple made it difficult for companies like Spotify to compete fairly with Apple's own services on the company's platform by putting artificial restrictions and ever-shifting goalposts. Today Apple fired back with a post on its website claiming to address Spotify's claims. The post, attributed to no one in particular at the company, comes across as a little too aggressive than what we have come to expect from this otherwise mild-mannered corporation. At least not since the famous 'Thoughts on Flash' post by Steve Jobs nine years ago. In the post, Apple obviously claims Spotify's claims are unfounded and addresses some but not all of the issues Spotify raised in its own blog post. Apple's argument is that Spotify wants to reap the benefits of using Apple's platform to its advantage but without paying anything for it. For this, Apple chooses a few points to address. It claims it reached out to Spotify regarding Siri and AirPlay 2 support, that Spotify is "deeply integrated" into platforms like CarPlay and that it did, in fact, approve Spotify's Apple Watch app, unlike what Spotify claimed. Apple later pointed out that Spotify forgot to mention that the 30% Apple tax is for the first year of subscriptions and after that it drops to 15%. Also, a majority of Spotify users on iOS are on their free plan or come through partnerships with mobile carriers, so only a small fraction of Spotify's subscriptions fall under Apple's revenue-sharing model. Apple then started talking about how Spotify is using their platform, using their development tools and their payment system while still wanting to keep 100% of the revenue. After that, Apple decided to go straight for the jugular, claiming Spotify wouldn't be the company it is today without Apple's App Store. Even worse, Apple also talked about how Spotify is also squeezing artists and songwriters and is suing them to avoid paying additional royalty payments. This was by far the most left field comment in the whole post as it did not pertain to the issue at hand and just felt like Apple lashing out. However, Apple did not respond to all claims that Spotify made in its complaint. Spotify's major complaint was Apple not maintaining a level field when it comes to developers who offer a competing service to one of their own. Developers have to pay 30% of their revenue to Apple if their use Apple's payment system, which cuts into their profits and causes them to increase prices, while Apple's own service obviously don't have to and can then undercut its rivals. Also, while the fee does drop from 30% to 15%, it is on a per user basis and if the user discontinues and restarts their subscription for any reason, the clock resets on the fee. Second, while Apple claims it offers its platform, its tools and its payment system to developers, on iOS the developers have little choice but to use them. When Epic Games did not want to give a share of its revenue to Google, they simply launched their own store on Android but you can't do that on iOS, so developers have no alternative but to rely on and use Apple's tools, which obviously come at a price. Third, Apple never addressed how it makes it impossible for developers to even mention any other form of payment within their app if they don't use Apple's own. If you provide a link or even just inform your customers through your app to go to a website and subscribe from there, Apple will not approve your app until you remove the offending language. This is an issue faced by all developers, and not just Spotify. Apple also mentioned in its post how majority of the apps on the store are free, including Spotify itself, and as such they don't pay Apple anything for the downloads if the users don't use any IAPs. Except, they do as every developer has to pay Apple a yearly fee for having the developer account and make apps for Apple's platforms. So even if your app is free, you are still paying Apple to use its platform and tools, which Apple conveniently forgot to mention. All in all, Apple's rebuttal was rather weak and the jabs that it made that weren't relevant to the topic only made it sound like an angry employee venting off on the keyboard. We are still waiting on European Commission's decision regarding Spotify's complaint to see where this goes. We might hear from Spotify again before that but hopefully they don't bother as their original argument was strong enough to upset the Applecart. Source Samsung and Huawei unveiled their foldable smartphones last month. Both of them have a different design but they have one thing in common - the high price. Samsung's Galaxy Fold costs $1,980 whereas Huawei's Mate X costs around $2,600. This price tag makes them a luxury item, but thanks to Xiaomi, you will be able to buy a foldable smartphone that will cost less than a grand. Well, $999 to be precise. 3D render of Xiaomi's foldable smartphone (Source: Lets Go Digital) According to a report by iGyaan, Xiaomi's foldable smartphone - which is currently referred to as Mi Fold and Mi Flex - will be priced $999 in the US, 999 in Europe, and INR 74,999 ($1,087) in India. The company plans to launch the phone sometime between April and June. It will be first launched in China followed by separate launches in global markets. The report further states that Mi Fold/Flex will cost almost half of Galaxy Fold because Xiaomi will use OLED displays made by Visionox Technology as per its requirements. It remains to be seen if these will be as good as the OLED panels on Galaxy Fold and Mate X. That said, like the Galaxy Fold and Mate X, the Mi Fold/Flex will also be a flagship and will come with Snapdragon 855 SoC with up to 10 GB RAM. A video showing this phone in action surfaced back in January. You can check it out below. Source | Via (in Chinese) MOSS POINT, Miss. -- A woman was arrested on Friday after an argument with a minor led to her shooting into a home in Moss Point. The shooting occurred at 3930 Macphelah Street just after 4 p.m., on Friday. According to Chief Brandon Ashley, police received a 911 call from a woman stating her 16-year-old was assaulted by 28-year-old Keianna Keishaun Gipson. While on the phone with the 911 dispatcher, Gipson shot through the house door, hitting the 16-year-olds mother in the face. Police responded and apprehended Gipson at the scene. She was booked and transported to the Jackson County Adult Detention Center. Gipson is charged with aggravated assault and shooting into a dwelling. Judge Keith Miller placed a $50,000 bond amount on each charge, totaling $100,000. The 40-year-old victim was originally transported to Singing River Hospital, and later transferred to USA Medical Center in Mobile, Ala., where she is listed as guarded but stable condition to await surgery. Anyone with information about the crime is asked to contact Detective Kimberlee Snowden or the Moss Point Police Department at 228-475-1711. You may also contact Crime Stoppers at 800-787-5898 or visit the Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers website at mscoastcrimestoppers.com. We didnt have to do a makeover as our cars already are painted green, Pearson said. We work here in the community and wanted to support it and be a part of the parade. Everybody is Irish today and I think despite it being a little cold people are looking forward to finally getting out and doing something. Haiti - FLASH : Violent confrontation at the border between Haitians and Dominican soldiers Friday in the community of Carrizal Elias Pina at the height of the pyramid 181, where the Dominican Republic builds on its territory, a large multi-agency complex that will house among other customs facilities https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27122-haiti-security-the-dominicans-explain-the-construction-work-at-the-border.html a crowd of highly motivated Haitian, have made hostile remarks to the Dominican soldiers who have provoked the military reinforcement of the perimeter of the base to prevent any violation of the territorial limits. However, despite the presence of the Dominican soldiers on the spot and the summonses of use, a few dozen Haitians, most of them masked, crossed the border and threw stones and bottles at members of the Dominican army and the army. Specialized Corps of Land Border Security (CESFRONT), which triggered intimidatory firing by the Dominican military to disperse the attackers confirmed Colonel Angel Alfredo Camacho Ubiera, commander of the Third Infantry Brigade and Colonel Jose Manuel Duran, Director of Cesfront. In these clashes where shots would have been fired on the Haitian side according to unconfirmed Dominican sources, two Haitians were injured. Haitian witnesses report a Haitian killed by the Dominican military, unconfirmed information from official sources. A situation that led the military high command led by the Minister of Defense, General Ruben Paulino Sem and the high command of the army to meet urgently at the Ministry of Defense in Santo Domingo. A Special Commission headed by the Army Commander General, Major-General Estanislao Gonell Regalado and Inspector General Adm. Edmundo Felix Pimentel was set up to investigate the events and make a detailed report as soon as possible. Paulino Sem deplores what happened at the border but maintains that the military on the border have only done their duty "The Dominican soldiers defended their physical integrity and territorial integrity against aggression [...]" Recall that for 3 days protests and tire burns are observed in Haiti in this border area, protests that prevented the citizens of both countries to carry out their business activities on Friday's cross-border market. To be continued... See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27122-haiti-security-the-dominicans-explain-the-construction-work-at-the-border.html HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Justice : Details on aggression at the University Hospital of Peace The Ministry of Public Health, takes note of the different positions that have been expressed, throughout the country and especially in the medical sector, to denounce the aggression perpetrated on the premises of the University Hospital of Peace (Delmas 33), on the night of 9 to 10 March 2019, against a doctor in the exercise of his duties https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27181-haiti-securitythe-ministry-condemns-the-assault-of-armed-individuals-at-the-university-hospital-of-peace.html The Ministry assures that it is following with interest the judicial treatment of this file and that it will do everything in its power to ensure that such acts do not go unpunished and that justice is rendered to the doctor. Following this incident, the perpetrators having been identified, a correspondence relating the aggression was sent to the Ministry of Justice for useful purposes of rights. Recall that the surgeon Chrislor Lestin was violently assaulted by the former Commissioner of the Government of the Croix-des-Bouquets, Williams Aristide accompanied by security agents. The attack broke out after the Surgeon refused to hand over to former Commissioner Aristide a bullet extracted from the body of a patient admitted to the hospital. The Ministry states that following this incident and the former Government Commissioner was laid off and the file was transmitted to the competent judicial authorities. The Ministry remains with Dr. Chrislor Lestin as part of its medical and psychological care and requires the judicial authorities to shed light on this assault in order to do justice to Dr. Lestin, the staff of the University Hospital of Peace and the entire medical community globally affected by this situation. It should be noted that on Monday, March 11th, a work stoppage was observed by the doctors and staff of the Peace Hospital in protest against this aggression and the lack of security of the staff. For its part, the Haitian Medical Association (AMH), which has seen fit to give itself some time to reflect on this barbarous act, strongly protests against the crime perpetrated on the person of Dr. Chrislor Lestin and "[...] deplores the behavior of the authorities responsible for protecting lives and defending society, which reflects the general decadence in which our society seems to be plunging, and the disregard by these same authorities of the dignity and integrity of the person, values fundamental principles in any State of Law [...]" The AMH asks the authorities concerned to respond to the correct demands of the doctors in order to allow the Hospital to resume its activities in the calm and serenity found. See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27181-haiti-securitythe-ministry-condemns-the-assault-of-armed-individuals-at-the-university-hospital-of-peace.html HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Politic : $ 79 million from Canada for 6 projects On Thursday, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Jean Claudy Pierre, the Minister of Planning and External Cooperation, and the Accredited Ambassador of Canada in Haiti, Andre Frenette, regarding the financing of six development projects. In his intervention, Minister Pierre thanked Ambassador Frenette for Canada's contribution in support of the Haitian Government's efforts and explained that the contribution of his ministry would be to facilitate the implementation of these projects, in particular by appointing the necessary interlocutors and approving the broad directions of the implementation plans. For his part, Ambassador Frenette said that these 6 projects totaling 79 million Canadian dollars over a period of 5 years, will provide a response to the real concerns expressed by both the authorities and the population. These 6 projects will be carried out will be executed in the departments of Artibonite, South and Grand'Anse and in the sectors of Energy, Agriculture, Hospitality and Tourism and the Equity of Kind. See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27193-haiti-news-zapping.html HL/ S/ HaitiLibre Haiti - FLASH : The PM and his Government interpellated by 70 deputies Following the interpellation by the Senate, Tuesday, March 12, of the Prime Minister Jean Henry Ceant and two of his ministers Jean Roudy Aly (Justice) and Raynaldo Brunet (Interior) scheduled for Wednesday, March 20 https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27168-haiti-flash-the-pm-and-two-ministers-under-an-interpellation-of-the-senate.html it is the turn of 70 deputies of the lower house to request the interpellation of the Government of Jean-Henry Ceant. Deputies' interpellation letter : "Port-au-Prince, March 14, 2019 Mr Gary Bodeau President of the Chamber of Deputies In his offices.- Mr. President, The [70] signatory deputies of this, hasten to ask you to interpellate the government of Jean-Henry Ceant, Monday, March 18, 2019, at 10:00 am in accordance with the rules of procedure of the Chamber of Deputies and the Constitution of 29 March amended, for the following reasons : 1. Non-compliance with its General Policy; 2. The social, economic and political situation of the country, due especially the depreciation of the gourde, has worsened. Hunger and misery in the most vulnerable segments of the population have become widespread; 3. The Government has been completely passive faced the disorder in the country from 6 to 16 February 2019, symbolizing political instability that is detrimental to the well-being of the population; 4. The Government is unable to secure the territory, restore peace in the streets, improve the living conditions of the population, support national production and put the country on the path of development; 5. The Government's justice initiatives are similar to maneuvers aimed at blocking the PetroCaribe trial and the necessary fight against corruption; 6. Dislocation in relation to the principles of Governmental Solidarity; 7. No budget has been drawn up for the implementation of the measures adopted by the Government which should alleviate the suffering of the population; Honorable Speaker, please, hold the Government interpellation session on the above date." Following this request, the Deputy Gary Bodeau informed in a letter the Prime Minister of his interpellation: Letter from Gary Bodeau to the Prime Minister : "Mr. Jean Henry Ceant Prime Minister of Haiti In his offices Prime Minister, In accordance with the provisions of articles 129-2, 129-3, 129-4, 129-5, 129-6, 156 and 161 of the amended Constitution of 1987, I have the advantage of announcing your interpellation and that of your Government. This measure follows the request of a group of seventy (70) deputies. In this perspective, accompanied by your ministerial cabinet, you are asked to present yourself at the sitting room of the Chamber of Deputies, Monday, March 18, 2019, at 10 am. Please accept, Sir, the expression of my highest consideration. Gary Bodeau President of the Chamber of Deputies " i> However, this interpellation will have to take place on another date, Prime Minister Ceant is currently on an official trip to Morocco where he participates at the invitation of King Mohammed VI to the Crans Montana Forum which brings together 170 countries from 14 to 17 March on the peninsula "Rio de Oro" in the city of Dakhla (Western Sahara) where he will take the opportunity to discuss with the King including a project to build fertilizer plant in Haiti. Jean-Henry Ceant, who is the subject of two interpellations in Parliament, will return home on the evening of Tuesday, March 19 and can at best only go to the Senate on March 20 as convened, except request for postponement of his hand... See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27168-haiti-flash-the-pm-and-two-ministers-under-an-interpellation-of-the-senate.html HL/ HaitiLibre Published on 2019/03/15 After enjoying the man himself, "The Banker" brings us the visuals and the information on his three fellow leads, portrayed by Chae Shi-ra, Yoo Dong-geun and Kim Tae-woo. The series has also released a second teaser, so we get to meet the extended cast in brief, but glorious shots. I feel like I'm going to love-hate so many people here. This is drama happiness. Advertisement First up in the leads alongside Kim Sang-joong's Noh Dae-ho is Chae Shi-ra's Han Soo-ji, Dae-ho's co-worker and hidden ally. Soo-ji entered Daehan Bank as a teller after high school, eventually becoming its No. 1 ace and general manager through her strong career focus, earning her admiration, and envy. Never allowing for a dent in her work, she dreams of becoming the bank's first woman president. Her decisions in the face of corrupt power are a point to look forward to, and the production describes her as an upcoming girl-crush icon. Next up is legendary president Kang Sam-do (Yoo Dong-geun), who graduated from top schools, and entered Daehan Bank's elite course. Sam-do went from a regular employee to becoming an executive in his mid-40s, then a managing director, and a president who has served three consecutive terms. His public persona shows soft, charismatic leadership, but his true nature is that of someone who will take down anyone who questions his absolute power. The production says that this double nature of his is a highlight of his character. Our fourth lead is Lee Hae-gon (Kim Tae-woo), an elite from a family of bankers who immediately became an executive at Daehan Bank. He is a snob going by the motto "My pace, my way", resiliently marching toward his goal. He surprisingly returns to Daehan as a managing director after his humiliating demotion to one of its subsidiaries, Daehan Finance. His Midas touch returns as the talk of the financial world, and the mystery of his comeback is a key point of his character. The production calls him someone with a strong, ambiguous charm between good and evil. I'm particularly interested in Sam-do and Hae-gon, because one of the two is clearly the Big Bad here, and I'm curious as to who. Sam-do could be a caring Chairman being ousted by a corrupt newcomer with a grudge; the bank's true owner, as he says in the second teaser. Or perhaps the newcomer could have a very good reason for the grudge, wanting to destroy an evil Chairman, and cleaning the bank of its rot, which are his own words in the latest video. I am invested, bank joke intended. "The Banker" premieres on March 23rd on MBC. CONNECT Catering began life in 1989 above the Facy department store in Market Place, Henley. Thirty years later, the contract catering firm now employs 450 people across 74 sites in the South-East and has taken the top spot in the Sunday Timess 100 best companies to work for, beating almost 800 competitors. The family-run business was founded by John Herring, who still serves as chairman, and was taken over by his daughters Louise Laver and Kate Bendall in 2014. Mr Herring owned the old Sydney House Hotel in Northfield End and the Imperial Hotel in Station Road for 13 years in the late Sixties and the Seventies but wanted more time to see his family. Mrs Laver, the joint managing director, recalls: Im one of four girls and he was never seeing us because of the long hours. Her father took a job lecturing in catering at Westminster College and then started another contract catering firm with a business partner before they split and he decided to go it alone. At the time the family lived in Fair Mile and Mr Herring was a member of the Henley Round Table and the 41 Club. His daughter says: He really enjoyed the service industry and he trained as a chef. Thats what he loves to do he loves food and he loves service. As the company grew, it moved around the town. It relocated from Market Place to Fair Mile and then to Reading Road, opposite Christ Church, and then to just off Bell Street, before moving in 1999 to Wallingford, where its still based. Mrs Laver, who was born at Townlands Hospital and educated at Rupert House School, Gillotts School and King Jamess College, joined the business in the early Nineties after university. She said: We were very Henley-centred really and it was a lovely place to grow up and John knew a lot of people in the town and felt that was the best place to be. Kate trained as a Cordon Bleu chef and was working at the sites and I started in the office and have moved around all the departments so we both got a really good understanding of the company. We joined because we could help. What Im really proud of, and Kate is as well, is bringing the staff with us and them feeling part of the team. Connect Catering has been in the top 20 of the Sunday Timess list for the last seven years. Mrs Laver says the award is important to her and her sister as the scores are the result of a staff survey. An anonymous questionnaire is sent to every employee of every company that enters and the first hurdle is to get at least 40 per cent of your staff to answer the 15-minute computer-based questionnaire within one month. Mrs Laver says: Because we enter it year on year we get the feedback and then we work on improving. Because were a service company if we have got happy staff, our customers have got happy staff. We have to work hard keeping the teams motivated and feeling part of Connect Catering. Mrs Bendall added: To be recognised by the Sunday Times as the best company is incredible and just shows all our staff are with us on this exciting journey to be the best we can be. We are always searching for innovative ways to improve and this is brilliant feedback, confirming that everything we have put in place is working and being appreciated by our valued team. Gda Reidy said Mazarache and her family surrounded him as he arrested the teenage boy. (Stock picture) A widower threw a pair of stolen registration plates out of a car window when gardai approached the vehicle, a court heard. John Paul McDonagh (31) claimed he was handed the plates by an acquaintance and foolishly took them. Judge Patricia McNam- ara imposed a three-month sentence, suspended for 12 months. The defendant, of Dorset Street, Dublin 1, admitted handling stolen property. Sgt Ciaran O'Neill told Tallaght District Court he was on patrol at Glenmore Park, Tallaght, on November 19, 2017, when he approached McDonagh's vehicle. Carer He saw McDonagh throw a set of registration plates out of the window. They had been stolen from a car parked in a neighbouring estate. The court heard McDonagh had 14 previous convictions. Defence lawyer Stephen Montgomery said McDonagh's wife died suddenly in 2017 and he was the sole carer for their three children. Mr Montgomery said McDonagh did not steal the plates but was handed them by an acquaintance and foolishly took possession of them. Suspected gunman Brenton Tarrant has been charged with the murder of 49 people. Photo: Getty Images New Zealand is trying to come to terms with the deaths of 49 people shot dead at two mosques during noon prayers yesterday. The victims were gunned down by an immigrant-hating white supremacist who apparently used a helmet-mounted camera to broadcast live footage of the massacre on Facebook. One man was arrested and charged with murder, and two other armed suspects were taken into custody while police tried to determine what role, if any, they played in the cold- blooded attack that stunned New Zealand. "It is clear that this can now only be described as a terrorist attack," New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said. She pronounced it "one of New Zealand's darkest days". The gunman who carried out at least one of the mosque attacks left a jumbled, 74-page manifesto that he posted on social media under the name Brenton Tarrant, identifying himself as a 28-year-old Australian and white supremacist who was out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims. Expand Close Ambulance staff take a man from outside a mosque in central Christchurch, New Zealand. Photo: Mark Baker/AP / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Ambulance staff take a man from outside a mosque in central Christchurch, New Zealand. Photo: Mark Baker/AP Rampage He also live-streamed in graphic detail 17 minutes of his rampage at Al Noor mosque where, armed with at least two assault rifles and a shotgun, he sprayed worshippers with bullets over and over, killing at least 41 people. Several more people were killed in an attack on the Linwood mosque in the city a short time later. At least 48 people were wounded, some critically. A police source said the same person was responsible for both shootings. They gave no details about those taken into custody, except to say that none had been on any watch list. In the aftermath, the country's threat level was raised from low to high, police warned Muslims against going to a mosque anywhere in New Zealand and the national airline cancelled several flights in and out of Christchurch. The city's mayor has said graves are being dug for the dozens of worshippers who were killed. Mayor Lianne Dalziel said officials were working closely with the community on the specific requirements of a large number of Muslim funerals. World leaders condemned the violence and offered condolences. Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan and other Islamic leaders pointed to the bloodbath as evidence of rising hostility toward Muslims. "I blame these increasing terror attacks on the current Islamophobia post-9/11 where Islam & 1.3bn Muslims have collectively been blamed for any act of terror by a Muslim," Mr Khan tweeted. US president Donald Trump tweeted "We stand in solidarity with New Zealand" and pledged to give the country any assistance it needs. New Zealand, with five million people, has relatively loose gun laws but few gun murders. It is also generally considered to be welcoming to migrants and refugees. In the wake of the slaughter, Ms Ardern said immigrants "have chosen to make New Zealand their home, and it is their home. They are us". She said the attack reflected "extremist views that have absolutely no place in New Zealand". At the Al Noor mosque, witness Len Peneha said he saw a man dressed in black and wearing a helmet with some kind of device on top enter the house of worship and then heard dozens of shots, followed by people running out in terror. Mr Peneha, who lives next door, said the gunman ran out of the mosque, dropped what appeared to be a semi-automatic weapon in his driveway and fled. Screams Mr Peneha then went into the mosque to help the victims. "I saw dead people everywhere. There were three in the hallway, at the door leading into the mosque and people inside the mosque," he said. "I don't understand how anyone could do this to these people, to anyone. It's ridiculous." Facebook, Twitter and Google scrambled to take down the gunman's video, which was widely available on social media for hours after the attack. In the video, the killer spends more than two minutes inside the mosque spraying terrified worshippers with gunfire. He then walks outside, where he shoots at people on the pavement. Children's screams can be heard in the distance as he returns to his car to get another rifle. He walks back into the mosque, where there are at least two dozen people lying on the ground. After going back outside and shooting a woman there, he gets back into his car and drives off. The second attack took place at the Linwood mosque about 5km away. Witness Mark Nichols said he heard about five gunshots and that a worshipper returned fire with a rifle or shotgun. The killer also had more assault weapons in the boot of his car, along with what appeared to be explosives. The gunman's 'manifesto' was a welter of often politically contradictory views, in which he portrayed himself as a racist and a fascist and raged against non-Westerners. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 16) Authorities have arrested "one of the possible suspects" in the brutal slaying of a 16-year-old student in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu on March 11, police said Saturday. Philippine National Police spokesman Bernard Banac said Jonas Bueno, a 32-year-old construction worker, was nabbed Friday in Matina town, Davao City. He was arrested for another murder case but is also being investigated for the killing of Grade 9 student Christine Silawan. Bueno had an arrest order for the murder in January of Trinidad Batucan, a 60-year-old farmer in Danao City, Cebu. Like Silawan, Batucan's face was skinned to the bone, while some of his organs were removed. Police have given conflicting statements on Bueno's possible links to the teenagers's killing. In a phone interview on Friday, Central Visayas police spokesperson Supt. Maria Aurora Rayos clarified that Bueno is not a suspect in Silawan's slaying. Although there are similarities in the manner the two victims were killed, the police do not have evidence to establish a link between the two cases, she added. The Davao City police, meanwhile, earlier identified Bueno as a suspect in the Silawan murder. On Saturday, Banac also said Bueno's arrest is a positive development because he is a "possible suspect" in the girl's killing. Silawan's body was found in a vacant lot in Barangay Bankal, Lapu-Lapu City on March 11. Her skull was exposed and she was also missing a number of body organs including the trachea, esophagus, and tongue. She sustained at least 20 stab wounds and was also believed raped. The brutal killing of the teenage student triggered public outcry and even prompted fresh calls for the restoration of the death penalty. The Justice Department has ordered the National Bureau of Investigation to conduct a probe on the controversial slay. The bounty for the murder has hit 2 million. READ: DOJ orders NBI probe on Cebu student slay School students from across Ireland rally in Dublin city as they join other youngsters in worldwide protests aimed at persuading political leaders to act now to stop what they see as the growing threat of global climate change. Photo: Niall Carson/PA Thousands turned out for the #schoolstrike4climate protest outside Leinster House, with schoolchildren making up the majority of the crowd. Gathering at noon at St Stephen's Green yesterday, the protest of roughly 8,000 people made its way to Molesworth Street where a stage had been set up for speeches. Protesters were calling for the Government to increase its action on climate change, with the disuse of fossil fuels a priority for many in the crowd. The movement was part of a global initiative calling for action to end climate change, inspired by the school strikes of Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg. The event was MCed by Mollie Redmond, a second-year student from North Wicklow Educate Together Secondary School. Among the speakers was Salim Kajani, a third year student from St Michael's in Dublin. Expand Close Thousands of Dublin students march from St Stephens green to Leinster House, joining a global protest for action to tackle climate change. Photo: Niall Carson/PA / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Thousands of Dublin students march from St Stephens green to Leinster House, joining a global protest for action to tackle climate change. Photo: Niall Carson/PA Sickened "I was sickened looking at statistics - only 7pc of our energy for transport comes from renewable resources. "Knowing what is going on with climate change, it is ridiculous that this Government seem to be doing basically nothing compared to what we could be doing," said Salim. Speaking to the Herald, the Junior Cert pupil also expressed his anger that geography is no longer a compulsory subject for second-level students in the junior cycle. "Geography was removed from the junior cycle syllabus as a compulsory subject. "Yet it covers so many things, not only climate change but population and acid rain," he said. As for the importance of the event, he said: "You do have homelessness, lack of hospital beds and Brexit, but this is one of the biggest issues and we need to focus on that." Marchers held signs aloft emblazoned with slogans such as "There is no Planet B", "Our future, our problem", and "Save the bees, plant more trees". Parents and teachers were also at the protest. The Hoyne family had made the journey from Offaly to Dublin for the event. "We're here with our four kids. In our lives we list the environment very high in our list of priorities in the house, in the way we live," said mum Aileen. "When the people of Ireland had an opportunity to come out and demonstrate to the Government that we are all serious about this, we didn't want to miss the opportunity," she said. "We travelled up on the train from Offaly. "Greta was inspirational for the children too. They could see that somebody small was able to stand up and people are listening to her." Olive Smith had brought her children Farah, a fourth class student, and Cole, a sixth class student from Oaklands Primary School. "We had an in-service day with the school so we had the chance to come out," explained Olive. "Farah is on the Greenschools Committee in Oatlands and we thought we would bite the bullet and come in and make some noise." Elsewhere, parents organised smaller protests outside schools, with strikes ongoing for the last month. Nellie Tattersall is mum to two children at North Kildare Educate Together school. She is a member of the Parent Climate Action group at the school, which began its Friday strikes on February 15. The group hopes to get children walking to school as many are still being dropped at school in cars despite living within walking distance. Former gang boss John Gilli- gan has received an early birthday present after learning he will not have to attend court on the day he turns 67. Gilligan was arrested with 22,280 in a suitcase at Belfast International Airport last Aug-ust as he was about to board a plane to Spain. He was released on bail while the trial is ongoing and has been excused from attending his next court date on March 29 - his 67th birthday. Denies Gilligan, with an address listed in west Dublin, was in the public gallery at Coleraine Magistrates' Court yesterday, even though he had previously been told he did not have to appear. He is currently on bail and was in the courtroom, 250km from Dublin, from at least 10am. There was a delay in the proceedings beginning at the normal time of 10am, and he sat on for more than half-an-hour until his case was called. He denies two charges he faces, and a contest date has been fixed for next month. Yesterday's proceedings were listed for a review of the case, and the matter has been adjourned to March 29 for a further review. There was no mention in court of it being the defendant's birthday. A defence lawyer told Deputy District Judge Sean O'Hare that the defendant was present in court, though he had been previously told he did not have to attend. He said his client "has some distance to travel" and asked if he could be excused on March 29, which was agreed by the court. The first charge Gilligan faces is that last August 23 he attempted to remove criminal property from Northern Ireland. The second charge relating to the same date is that he was in possession of criminal property, namely 22,280. Gilligan had spent several months in custody in relation to the charges, and when he was granted bail he pledged to show up at a subsequent court, telling a judge: "I wouldn't run." At a recent court hearing, a prosecutor confirmed that if found guilty the maximum sentence the accused could face would be six months. 'So much we want the public to know': Meritus COVID cases surge again The awards season is upon us, beginning with the Filmfare Awards. Recently, Manoj Bajpayee took potshots at film awards for not nominating his films and now Badhaai Ho writer Jyoti Kapoor has called out the Filmfare Awards. She is upset that her name has been dropped from the Best Story category, in which the film has been nominated. While she was credited along with Akshat Ghildial and Shantanu Srivastava initially by Filmfare, her name was unceremoniously dropped by Thursday, says a report in Mid Day. My name was included in the nominees list on Wednesday morning, until it magically disappeared. I wrote to [the producers] Priti Shahani [president, Junglee Pictures] and Vineet Jain [MD, Times Group] requesting them to reinstate my name. But clearly, nothing has been done about it. However, the report goes on to give the film producers side as well. Priti of Junglee Pictures said that though Jyoti was part of the initial team, her contract ended in 2016. The contract stated that if any part of her story or character is used, she would be given credit. However, her bit wasnt used. Also read: Kartik Aaryan breaks silence on viral kiss video with Sara Ali Khan. Heres his reply Priti added that only Shantanu and Akshat have been credited as the writers of the film in the credit roll. Jyotis name has been mentioned separately in good faith. However, Jyoti maintains that the premise of the film (parents of adult children get pregnant, leading to a crisis in the family) was her idea and it was duly registered. Her basic story was called Hum Do Hamaare Char, on the basis of which, Junglee had hired her. Jyoti further said that she would legally pursue the matter. Ayushmann Khurrana starrer Badhaai Ho was directed by Amit Sharma and also starred Neena Gupta, Gajraj Rao, Surekha Sikri and Sanya Malhotra in important roles. Follow @htshowbiz for more Milan Talkies Director: Tigmanshu Dhulia Cast: Ali Fazal, Shraddha Srinath, Ashutosh Rana, Sikandar Kher Rating: 3/5 There is a moment in Milan Talkies when electricity goes off in the middle of Mughal-e-Azam. The film is playing in an Allahabad theatre -- we are eight years away from Prayagaraj -- called Milan Talkies and the audience is none too pleased about missing the electric face-off between Akbar and his lovelorn prince. Ali Fazals wannabe director jumps in with gusto. Backlit by mobile phones screens, he mimics both Dilip Kumar and Prithviraj Kapoor and the audience applauds -- both in the real-life theatre and the make-believe Milan Talkies. Watch the Milan Talkies trailer here The Tigmanshu Dhulia films a collection of such moments -- mining into our love of movies and a love story well told. Ali Fazal and Shraddha Srinaths story has its guardian angels a Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol poster here, a Shammi Kapoor song there. With its film-within-a-film set-up Ali Fazal is shooting his dream project in the bylanes of Allahabad with money borrowed from his mother and often supplemented by helping weak students cheat. That is how he meets Shraddha, a BA fail who needs to be a graduate so that her father, Ashutosh Rana, can marry her to the educated boy of his choice. Love blossoms but this is Uttar Pradesh of anti-Romeo squads and caste lines etched in stone, here represented by a stone-faced Sikandar Kher. We see him early on in the film, castrating a boy for falling in love with a girl of other caste. To Ali Fazals Annu, Mumbai is the city of his dreams away from the patriarchal stronghold of Allahabad, where dreams do come true. And single-screen Milan Talkies stands for Bollywood in the film Annu and Maithili romance in the flickering lights, kiss in front of posters and the projectionist Sanjay Mishra is their personal cupid. Annu does finally reach Mumbai but after bloodshed and without the woman he loves. The tenuous relationship between him and Maithili is again films. Dhulia is in fine form he plays Annus dad in the film besides writing and directing the film. As a man-child whose own Bollywood dreams came to naught, he is a delight. However, it is the way he captures the essence of small-town India, and especially Allahabad he is from the city himself, that he truly wins. From the idiom to attitude, he gets the city pat-on. He is ably supported by the cast Ali Fazal, Shraddha, Ashutosh and Sanjay are particularly delightful. There are a few road bumps though the films length and entirely forgettable music. Follow @htshowbiz for more The author tweets @JSB17 Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singhs public display of affection (PDA) has only been growing after their wedding last year. While Ranveer was always vocal, Deepika had been less so. On Thursday, admiring his wifes wax statue at Londons Madame Tussauds museum, Ranveer had expressed his desire to take her home. On Friday evening, Deepika put up a new black and white photo, possibly from a photo shoot, Ranveer went gaga over it. Commenting on it, Ranveer wrote in Hindi: Jaan lele (Take my life). The picture, spread across the nine slots on her Instagram page, showed Deepika posing like a black outfit and the vibe of the picture was very vintage (1960s getup). Ranveers joy at seeing Deepikas wax statue has been there for everyone to see. In fact, sharing a picture of the two ladies - real and the wax model -- posing together and him admiring them, he wrote on Instagram in part English, part Hindi: DP 2.0! Original toh... mere paas hai! Over the last two days, her entire family including husband Ranveer, parents Prakash and Ujjala Padukone-- sister Anisha Padukone and Ranveers parents were in London for the inauguration of her statue. Making a statement on the occasion, Deepika said: As a little girl, I was a very curious kid, for me, purpose is something that is very important. However, big or small, whatever I am doing in my life, purpose and why we do what we do is very important to me. Also read: Kartik Aaryan breaks silence on viral kiss video with Sara Ali Khan. Heres his reply After I got a call from Madame Tussauds, I thought What is the purpose of this, why are we doing this, or what is it that my fans will remember me for, remember my figure for, what is it that I would like to leave behind, and the cause of mental health is very close to my heart, it is something that I am extremely passionate about. I said thats it, I would like for my fans when they see my figure I hope it reminds them of someone who did something for the cause of mental illness, who worked towards creating awareness and destigmatising mental illness. I hope that it gives people a sense of upliftment and a sense of hope. I hope that message comes through. At the same time, the cover of Vogues International magazines April issue also hit the internet and it featured Deepika, sharing space with Hollywood star Scarlett Johansson and South Korean actor Doona Bae. In a video released by Vogue, she was part of a group of nine actresses from round the globe, who were asked to describe the most typical movie themes from their country. Deepikas hilarious take was: Boy and girl meet. The minute they look at each other, theres electricity; they fall in love and all of a sudden, the bad guy enters and he is ready to destroy their future. Part 1. (With inputs from IANS) Follow @htshowbiz for more Reports on the importance of the woman voter who holds the key to the election have been surfacing with regularity in recent months. Now that election season is upon us, be prepared to hear more about the innate wisdom of women voters and how political parties cannot afford to ignore them. But none of this means that women will be given more tickets to contest though a small beginning has been made by the Biju Janata Dal in Odisha which has apportioned 33 % reservation for women in the Lok Sabha elections and the Trinamool which has given an impressive 40% seats to women. However, I seriously doubt whether any of the national parties will follow suit at the moment. Even if half the women candidates in Odisha or Bengal were to win, the proportion of women elected across India is still likely to be very small. This is because they are most often considered as not winnable candidates even though there are no studies to support the theory that men are more likely to win than women. For all the anti-dynasty talk, most politicians will fall back on a woman relative in the absence of a viable male one. So we have dynasties headed by Sharad Pawar, that of the late Pramod Mahajan, the Gandhis, the Badals, UPs Yadavs, the late Karunanidhi and so on, all of which have women in the political fray. A valiant attempt has been made by the National Womens Party (NWP) which was launched recently in Mumbai. The party has ambitiously said it will contest half of the 545 Lok Sabha seats in these elections. It will also work towards 50% reservation in the Lok Sabha. Its goal is to remove gender disparity in politics in a patriarchal society. Far from 50%, I think we all know by now that no political party will get the Womens Reservation Bill passed in its current form. Otherwise it would not have been hanging fire for so many years and through the tenures of different governments. But it sounds like a lovely idea and perfect for sound bytes, come the elections. The latest to promise to get the Bill through is Rahul Gandhi, subject to his coming to power. Getting 33% reservation is not going to be easy and perhaps not even worth pursuing. But there is nothing to stop political parties from giving more tickets to women as Naveen Patnaik and Mamata Banerjee propose to do. It is baffling that most political parties dont tap into the vast talent pool offered by the women in the panchayati raj. While it is true that many of them may have started off as rubber stamps for their male relatives, it would be no exaggeration to say many have come into their own now and done splendid work in their areas. These are women who have recognition in their panchayats, have done a lot of development work, ensured that central funds are used for the purpose they were meant to be used for. Yet, women panchayat leaders rarely make it to the assembly, let alone the Lok Sabha. If more such women were given tickets, the development agenda, which seems forgotten now, would be back on the table. But why blame only male politicians and rant about patriarchy? Even parties headed by women have rarely bothered to find talented women and give them tickets. When she was the head of the AIADMK, J Jayalalithaas word was unchallengeable. But she completely disregarded women as potential leaders. The same goes for Mayawati and even the Congress party headed by a woman for many years. The winnability theory is flawed. Any candidate that a party puts up should have the benefit of its full backing. The woman then has a level playing field and the winnability factor will be taken care of. Affirmative action at the panchayat level was meant to create the women leaders of the future. But in actual fact, it has not broken any glass ceilings at all. Politics does not seem to follow the trend in many other professions where women are moving ahead. If Naveen Patnaik and Mamata Banerjees initiative works, others may be tempted to try to emulate it. But for the moment, greater participation of women in the political process, apart from as voters, is not even being talked about except for the tired old shibboleths of the reservation, which will not happen in hurry. lalita.panicker@hindustantimes.com A four-year-old girl was raped allegedly by the father of her tutor in west Delhi on Friday. The 52-year-old man was arrested on Saturday, police said. The girl was severely wounded and is currently undergoing treatment in the intensive care unit of a hospital in west Delhi, police said. Her condition is out of danger, her family said. Deputy commissioner of police (west) Monika Bhardwaj said that the suspect was arrested, after a case of rape under section 376 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and section 6 of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act was registered at the Punjabi Bagh police station. The first information report (FIR) was registered based on a complaint by the girls mother, said Bhardwaj. Investigators, who did not wish to be identified, said the girls medical examination confirmed that she was raped. The girls family told police in their complaint that they suspect that the man had been allegedly sexually assaulting her for the past four-five days. They said that one of the girls school teachers told them that she appeared to be disturbed and remained silent in the classroom the past few days, according to the FIR. My daughter is terrified and has not been able to tell us exactly what happened there [the tutors home], the mother told police . In the complaint, the family members said that the matter came to their notice around 7.30pm on Friday, when the girl was dropped home by the tutor and she was crying profusely and appeared wounded. The girls family told police that they originally rushed her to a private hospital, but they were forced to move her to a government hospital as they did not have the money required for her treatment. Police said the girls family alleged that her treatment was delayed by two-three hours due to the transfer. The girls mother alleged that when she called the police on Friday night, officials were not prompt to register the case. She said that a woman sub-inspector, who had come to attend the call, asked her to call in the morning to procure the copies of the medical examination report and the FIR. I tried contacting her in the morning but her phone was switched off. I then went to the police station but the police personnel were non-committal about registering the case and arresting the culprit... I sought help from the members of an NGO and an FIR was filed and the man arrested only when the NGO put pressure on the local police, the mother alleged. Police said they could only arrest the man after due procedure. The girls family shifted the child to the government hospital from the private hospital. This shifting process took some time and delayed the recording of girls mothers statement. It was recorded around 5am Saturday after which we registered the FIR. We could arrest him only after an FIR is registered, said DCP Bhardwaj said. Discussions are understood to be under way to reach a compromise that would enable China to allow the UN Security Council to list and sanction Masood Azhar, founder of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad, a terrorist in exchange for some changes in the language of the designation as proposed. An outcome is expected within days, and not weeks and month, it has been reliably learnt. But if these discussions fail, the three UN Security Council (UNSC) members, the United States, the United Kingdom and France, whose proposal to designate Azhar was temporarily blocked by China earlier this week, are said to be prepared to escalate the issue and push for a UNSC resolution, which would be debated and voted upon openly in contrast to the confidential decision-making process of the councils sanction committee that deals with listing requests. Discussions are underway on certain changes that China is understood to have suggested in the language in which the designation is announced, which could be about words and phrases or about the need for more information in support of Azhars listing. The three proposers appear willing to concede the changes in the interest of achieving the higher goal of designating Azhar, whose organization claimed responsibility for the terrorist attack in Pulwama in February. There is a sense among people involved in the negotiations that China has shown flexibility and willingness to discuss the issue that it hadnt before, and that has raised expectations about a compromise that could lead eventually to Azhar being sanctioned by the UN, enjoining member nations to not receive him as a visitor, or arm or fund him. The UNSC press statement of February 22 condemning the Pulwama attack was taken as a sign of this new willingness stemming from Chinese frustration with Pakistan on this issue, which, it has been learnt, wasnt lost on Pakistan. When discussions started for the UNSC to issue a statement condemning the February 14 Pulwama attack, there was every expectation, it was leant, that China would block anything meaningful from coming out. Gradually, however, negotiators realized to their surprise that China was willing to go along and actually wanted to get to a yes, and it was just a matter of coming up with the right language. And the negotiators did get that language right. The statement turned out to be path-breaking for India. It was for the first time that the UNSC had condemned a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir. And it also referred to the state by its official name, Jammu and Kashmir, and not Indian-administered Kashmir as it had been called by the world body before. Also, it was the first time that the UNSC had condemned a terrorist attack on Indian security forces in that state. And, finally, it named Jaish-e-Mohammad, which was intended to clear the way for designating its founder, Azhar. It could not be immediately ascertained what was conceded to China in those negotiations. Its also not clear if these on-going discussions are based on the proposal put on hold by China or whether a new proposal would be brought before the UNSC sanctions committee based on the compromise under discussion. While these signs were noted and gave hope to negotiators about an eventual designation, China appears to have been in no hurry to get there. On Wednesday, it put a technical hold on the proposal, which can last six months, and then for another three months. Beijing has said it needs time. Its long and close relationship with Pakistan can, and will, be an issue, western powers acknowledge, but they are well past caring because of their frustration with Pakistan, a country seen around the world as a supporter of terrorism despite the financial aid it has received, and that it continues to seek/claim/demand to tide over an economic crisis caused, in some estimates, by generous support of terrorists. So, China has time now, but not for ever. It is learnt that if China is not seen discussing the designation in good faith, the United States, the United Kingdom and France are ready to move quickly to the next phase, which is escalating the issue and seek a UNSC resolution, a possible next-step first reported by Hindustan Times. That will be dramatic. Proceedings of UNSCs 1267 sanctions committee (1267 is the number of the resolution passed by the body to set up this committee in 1999) are confidential, which gives member nations the opportunity to act under the cover of anonymity, and without the burden of explaining themselves. A UNSC resolution, on the other hand, will be deliberated in an open meeting, which will be aired live as all open sessions. China will have to defend a terrorist, if and when a resolution is proposed to designate Azhar, under the gaze of the world and if it chooses to vote to defeat the motion, it will do so, again, in full public view. The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted an operational exercise over the skies of border areas in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab on Thursday night to test its combat readiness, said two officials on Friday on condition of anonymity. Close to 50 fighter planes, drawn from four combat squadrons, took part in the drill, said one of the officials cited above. We always test our readiness to respond to any aerial threats, he said. The fighter planes involved in the exercise included Sukhoi-30s, Mirage 2000s and upgraded MiG-29 fighters, said the second official. The exercise assumes significance against the backdrop of military tensions between India and Pakistan following the February 26 bombing of a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror base in Balakot by the IAF. The unprecedented, cross-border aerial strikes by India were in retaliation for the suicide car bombing of a Central Reserve Police Force convoy in Pulwama, in which at least 40 men were killed on February 14. The IAF has been on high alert following the air strikes on the Balakot terror camp, and is prepared to scramble fighter jets from its forward bases at short notice to tackle any threat, the second official said. Five to six air bases were involved in Thursdays exercise, he said. Amritsar residents reported hearing loud bangs or sonic booms caused by IAF fighter jets flying faster than the speed of sound. Such exercises are conducted to test our operational preparedness. The drill may draw more attention in the current security environment, said Air Vice Marshal Manmohan Bahadur (retd), distinguished fellow at the Centre for Air Power Studies. The air force has conducted two major exercises during the last one year: Gagan Shakti in April 2018 and Vayu Shakti last month. Gagan Shakti-2018 sought to test the IAFs readiness and stamina for a two-front war with China and Pakistan, and Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa had then said the IAF was shaking the heavens and splitting the Earth with the drills. More than 1,100 aircraft half of them fighter jets took part in the drills. Vayu Shakti, a firepower demonstration, involved nearly 140 aircraft, including 81 fighter jets at the Pokhran field firing range, about 100 km from the Pakistan border. It was held on February 16, two days after the Pulwama terror attack. Dhanoa had then said the IAF was ever prepared to deliver an appropriate response assigned by the countrys political leadership. That response was delivered 10 days later. The number of Indian killed in the horrific shootings in two mosques in New Zealands Christchurch rose to five on Saturday after Mohammad Farhaj Ahsan, the 30-year-old electrical engineer and three Gujaratis including a father-son duo from Vadodara and a resident of Ahmedabad were declared dead on Saturday. Another 30-year-old man from Telanganas Karimnagar district, Mohammed Imran Khan, lost his life in the firing on Saturday. We have just received a message from New Zealand authorities that Ahsan passed away in the shooting, his brother Khasim Khan said. Hailing from Hyderabads Tolichowki area, Ahsan had gone to Al Noor Mosque for Friday prayers but did not return home after a gunman opened indiscriminate fire on worshippers. His wife, Insha Aziz, had got panicky and called Ahsans father, Mohammad Sayeeduddin, and mother Imtiaz Fatima. My daughter-in-law called us on Friday afternoon and said that Ahsan had gone to the mosque where the firing took place. There was no information about him. We have been in constant touch with her, Sayeeduddin told reporters. Ahsan went to Christchurch six years ago and had been working there. He took his wife and two kids three-year-old daughter and seven-year-old son there two years ago. Manzoor Ahmed Khan, who owns Al Manzoor marriage hall in Karimnagar town, said he had received a call from his brothers family, now settled in Chicago in the US, about Imrans death. Imran fell to the assassins bullets at Al Noor Masjid where he had gone for Friday prayers, Khan told this reporter over the phone. Khan said that Imran, who studied up to Class 12 in Hyderabad, went to New Zealand in search of a job some years ago and got involved in some kind of business activity there. His father, Masood Ahmed Khan, and the rest of his family left that country and settled in Chicago in the US after some time. Khan did not clarfiy when exactly the family immigrated to New Zealand or when they apart from Imran left for the US. Mehboob Khokkhar, a retired employee of Gujarat Electricity Board, was visiting his son Imran, who has settled in NZ. He was gravely wounded and declared dead on Saturday. A GoAir flight headed to Bhubaneswar from Kolkata was forced to return to Kolkata on Friday due to engine problems. All 166 passengers on board the plane are safe. The flight G8760, an A320 Neo, was forced to return to Kolkata soon after taking off. The aircraft returned to Kolkata without dumping fuel. The aircraft has been declared Aircraft on Ground (AOG) and will undergo necessary repairs. The passengers were offered a full refund post cancellation of the flight. More details awaited. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Indian government believes Pakistan has shifted the goalposts for the Kartarpur corridor project, including caps on the number of pilgrims using it every day and the introduction of a paid permit system, people familiar with developments said on Saturday. Officials from the two countries held their first meeting to discuss modalities and a draft agreement on the corridor at Attari on March 14. Several differences including on the number of pilgrims permitted daily, the number of days the corridor would be operational and a permit system for pilgrims emerged during these talks. New Delhi is also concerned about plans by Sikh groups from the US, Canada and Australia to hold events in Pakistan to publicise Referendum 2020 a non-binding vote on a separate nation of Khalistan and has taken up this issue with Islamabad, the people cited above said. Also read: Pak response on Indias demands on Kartarpur Corridor inadequate: Punjab CM Prime Minister Imran Khans initial announcement on the Kartarpur corridor, which will connect Dera Baba Nanak in India with Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan, gave impression of a generous and open-ended offer, but Islamabads focus during the discussions this week was narrow and with a limited focus, the people said. India was disappointed the proposed caps on the number of pilgrims and the introduction of the permit and fee systems, they added. However, India is committed to operationalising the project in time for the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, the founder of the Sikhism, in November. Also read: Kartarpur corridor: Visa-free access sought for 5,000 Indians a day Referring to Referendum 2020, the people said a small group of overseas Sikhs from the US, Australia and Canada was engaging in an activity that is tantamount to interference in Indias internal affairs. This group doesnt represent the views of Sikh community at large and this issue has been raised with Pakistan and the other countries, they added. Even as India and Pakistan were in a tense stand-off in the third and fourth weeks of February on the Western Front, on the Eastern Front, the Indian and the Myanmarese armies were launching a coordinated effort to strike at positions of the so-called Arakan Army, which threatened a crucial connectivity project between the two countries. The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport project connects Kolkata port with Sittwe seaport in Myanmar, providing an alternative route to and from Indias northeastern states and reducing pressure on the Siliguri corridor. The project will also connect Sittwe via an inland river system using the Kaladan river and highways to Zorinpui and Aizawl in Mizoram. The Arakan Army, an insurgent group, has been threatening and trying to extort money from Indian fabricators working on the Kaladan project. At least one soldier of the Myanmarese army was critically injured in an improvised explosive device blast, said a senior army officer who did not want to be named. Indias role in the operation was to ensure the rebels did not cross into its territory and escape, and to this end, at least 10,000 Indian troops (Assam Rifles units) were deployed along the Indo-Myanmar border between February 17 and March 2, according to senior army officials. The first army officer said at least 12 positions of the Arakan Army were destroyed by the Myanmarese army, and many of the 1,500-off rebels taken into custody. The Arakan Army, which has not signed the Myanmar governments Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement of 2015 with militant groups, has been blamed for a string of attacks in Rakhine state since the beginning of the year. It was declared a terrorist organisation after it killed 13 policemen in coordinated attacks in Rakhine on January 4. On March 9, the group killed nine policemen in an attack on a post in Rakhine. Formed in 2009, it is aligned with the Buddhist minority of Rakhine and is believed to have several thousand trained and armed members. It is part of the Northern Alliance a conglomerate of four rebels groups comprising the Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA), Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), and Kachin Independence Army (KIA) . The TNLA, MNDA, and the KIA have all been linked to China in the past. The group originally had camps in Kachin state close to the border with China but it has moved to Rakhine and Chin states in recent years and established several bases, including some close to the Kaladan transit and transport project. The group carried out several ambushes that affected supplies for the project. The operation, coordinated by the Indian Army and external intelligence agency Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), was conducted after extensive surveillance with satellites and drones, HT learns. An official in Indias security establishment said on condition of anonymity that the possibility that the Arakan Army was targeting Kaladan at the behest of an interest inimical to India cannot be ruled out. While the officers confirmed that India and Myanmar were in touch diplomatically ahead of the operation with the two armies holding several meetings to plan it, it was by no means a cross-border strike. We operated in coordination with the Myanmar Army and our main aim was to prevent elements of the Kachin Army from moving into India, said a second senior officer in the military establishment, who did not want to be named. We dont need to cross the Myanmar border because there is a mutual understanding on both sides and the Myanmar army largely obliges with whatever we ask them for, said a third senior army officer closely monitoring the north-east. Among other things, India shared radio sets with the Myanmar Army for ease of communication and to prevent incidents of friendly fire. The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) is the nodal agency for the implementing the Kaladan project. According to an IWAI official, who asked not to be named, India has already completed one phase of the project. (With inputs from Padma Rao Sundarji and Anisha Dutta) India will not cut a deal on the sanctioning of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar by the United Nations Sanctions Committee (UNSC). Instead, India will show patience on Chinas hold as it believes that Masood Azhar will eventually be sanctioned at the UN 1267 Sanctions committee, sources said on Saturday. Expressing Indias disappointment over Chinas move to place a technical hold on the sanctioning of Jaish chief Masood Azhar, sources said that the international community was supporting India on the issue and that the country had the support of 14 out of 15 members of the UN Security Council on the topic. The sources further said that the US interlocutors had agreed that India had acted responsibly after the Pulwama terrorist attack in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed. The sources said that Pakistan hasnt done enough to crack down on terrorism and that the actions that the country had taken in the past few days were cosmetic at best and that it had taken no real action on cutting funding of terror groups. The sources also said that India had shared its concerns about the use of US defence platforms in an offensive manner by Pakistan and that the US had taken note of Indias concerns and that it would look into the use of F-16 fighter planes and AMRAAM missiles by Pakistan in the aerial engagement that took place on the Line of Control barely 13 days after the Pulwama suicide attack. At the same time, the sources also clarified that there was no scope of a role for mediation with Pakistan for countries such as Saudi Arabia. However, India would be happy if such countries took up the issue of cracking down on terrorism with Pakistan. YSR Congress president Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy on Saturday met Andhra Pradesh and Telangana governor ESL Narasimhan in Hyderabad and sought a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the killing of his uncle Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy in Pulivendula in Andhra Pradeshs Rayalaseema on Friday. Talking to the media persons later, Jaganmohan accused Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu of trying to eliminate his family in a meticulous manner. When the Chief Minister is behind the political killings involving our family, how can we get justice if our uncles murder case is investigated by the state police? he asked. Naidu who launched his partys election campaign from Tirupati rubbished Jaganmohans allegations and said he was trying to get off the hook by seeking a CBI probe. Also read: Jagan Reddys uncle Vivekananda Reddy found dead, case of unnatural death filed Jagans family initially said it was a natural death due to cardiac arrest. It later changed the version saying there are doubts over the death. Finally at 3pm the family said it was a murder suspecting our partys role. When deep stab wounds on the body suggested it was a murder, why did Jagan and his family conceal the facts and keep changing versions. This points to a family angle in the murder, Naidu said. Jagans grandfather Y.S. Raja Reddy at 75 was killed in a bomb attack in 1998 in Vemula village close to his native Pulivendula. His father Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy who was chief minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh was killed in a helicopter crash in Kurnool district in 2009 while Jagan himself escaped a murder attempt by a canteen worker in the Visakhapatnam airport in October 2018. His uncle Vivekananda Reddy was hacked to death on Friday. Jagan Reddy linked all these events relating to his family to the CM Naidus sinister game of political murders, saying the TDP chief is trying to eliminate opposition leaders physically. When my grandfather was murdered, Naidu was the chief minister. Chandrababu as an opposition leader threatened my father in the state assembly two days before the copter crash. And, again, Chandrababu is chief minister when an attempt was made on me. In this backdrop my uncle was killed, YSRC leader said. Jaganmohan also accused TDP Lok Sabha candidate in Kadapa C. Adinarayana Reddy of being involved in Vivekas murder and said the police wove a fabricated story revolving around a letter said to have been written by the victim at the time of his death. In the blood-stained letter Viveka is said to have written that his driver Prasada Reddy had attacked him after being asked to be punctual in his duties. Can anyone write a letter when he is being killed and soaked in blood? Is it not a concocted story, he asked. The YSRC leader said he had also requested the governor to remove Andhra Pradesh Director General of Police R.P. Thakur and Additional Director General of Police (Intelligence) AB Venkateswar Rao from election duties to ensure free and fair polling , claiming that the two officers are biased in favour of the ruling party. Amit Garg, heading the special investigation team (SIT) probing the case, said the team will unravel the mystery shrouding Vivekas killing by Sunday. The Bru refugees in Tripura have again demanded polling stations in relief camps for the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls on April 11 but Election Commission of India officials said such a provision is not on the cards. Over 30,000 Bru refugees have been living in six relief camps at Kanchanpur in North Tripura district, more than 180 kilometres from Agartala. Around 37,000 Bru people had taken shelter at Kanchanpur in 1997 after a clash with majority Mizos. In the run-up to the Assembly polls in November 2018, speculation was rife on whether polling stations would be set up near the relief camps or, the Brus would be required to travel to Mizoram to cast their vote. As protests by political parties and NGOs erupted and the demand for the latter grew louder, the ECI was forced to transfer the then Chief Electoral Officer SB Shashank. It decided to set up polling booths in Kanhmun in Mizorams Mamit district on the border with Tripura. We have requested the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to suggest booths inside our camps to ECI so that all of us can vote. During the assembly polls, the poll percentage was low because many elderly people and women could not travel to Kanhmun, said Mizoram Bru Displaced Peoples Forum (MBDPF)s general secretary Bruno Msha, on the letter sent to Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba on March 15. It is likely that a similar arrangement will be made this time. We are waiting for a final word from the ECI, said Ashish Kundra, Chief Electoral Officer, Mizoram. The turnout in Kanhmun was good. Around 60% of Brus voted, he said. Meanwhile, NGOs in Mizoram are adamant that no special arrangement be made for Brus. Why should there be any special arrangement for them? Why cant they come to Mizoram and vote at their respective polling stations like everyone else? demanded Vanlal Ruata, chief of the Young Mizo Association. In July 2018, the MHA announced it signed a repatriation agreement with MBDPF and two state governments of Tripura and Mizoram. However, according to officials, only 800 Brus belonging to 126 families have been repatriated since. Around 7000 Brus have returned to Mizoram in eight phases of repatriation since 1997, according to the Tripura Police. But the remaining refugees are reluctant to do so, fearing for their safety and because they feel that their requirement of land in Mizoram has not been met by the agreement. Deputy superintendent of police (DSP) of the CBI, AK Bassi, on Friday told the apex court through his lawyer that he has not been receiving his salary from the department after he refused to take on his new posting in Port Blair. Senior advocate Rajeev Dhawan told a bench of the Supreme Court led by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi that Bassi has not received his salary since October after his transfer orders were issued and he did not report to the new post. The counsel reported the matter to the court while seeking an early hearing of Bassis petition questioning his transfer. The bench adjourned the matter for three weeks after solicitor general Tushar Mehta asked for time on behalf of the department of personnel and training to submit a response. Mehta initially said Bassi could file a representation before the new CBI director, to which Dhawan replied: CBI had on the last hearing sought time to file its response. Let them file one. Following the appointment of M Nageshwar Rao as interim CBI director, Bassi was transferred to Port Blair on October 24. Bassi challenged this, saying his transfer was a deep-rooted conspiracy, aimed at influencing the course of the investigation against Rakesh Asthana and further to penalise him for discharging his duties in a free and impartial manner in the Asthana FIR. On January 9, Bassis transfer order was withdrawn after Verma was reinstated as the CBI director by the Supreme Court. Soon after assuming charge, Verma transferred Bassi back to CBIs Delhi office. But on January 11, when Verma was removed from the post by a high-powered appointment panel, Bassi was again transferred to Port Blair by Rao, who took charge again as CBIs interim director. Pakistan can demonstrate that it is serious about cracking down on terror by handing over proscribed Indian nationals based on its soil,like Dawood Ibrahim and Syed Salahuddin, as all actions taken so far by Islamabad have been cosmetic, people familiar with the Indian governments thinking said on Saturday. At the same time, India is prepared for the long haul on the effort to get Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar listed as a global terrorist by the UNs Islamic State and al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee, despite being disappointed with the hold placed by China on the latest effort by France, the US and Britain to sanction him, the people said on condition of anonymity. It is still not clear exactly who has been placed in preventive detention by Pakistan in the face of global pressure following the February 14 Pulwama suicide bombing that was claimed by JeM, and Islamabad could show it is serious about reining in terror by handing over Indians wanted for terrorism and major crimes based on its soil, including mob boss Ibrahim and Hizbul Mujahideen chief Salahuddin, they added. Indian officials say Ibrahim, designated a global terrorist by the US and the UN and wanted for the 1993 Mumbai bombings that killed 257 people, lives in Karachi. Salahuddin, also a designated global terrorist, operates from bases in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Rawalpindi. The people further said Pakistan can work with third countries for international verification of terrorist camps on Pakistani soil, whose precise coordinates have been shared by India. They described all the action taken by Pakistan since it launched a crackdown on March 5 as cosmetic, with authorities only changing the signs outside facilities run by groups such as Jamaat-ud-Dawah and Falah-e-Insaniyat Foundation, both fronts of Lashkar-e-Taiba, and appointing so-called administrators. While expressing disappointment with Chinas hold on the latest move to sanction Azhar, the people said this was not a block and India is cautiously confident that the JeM chief will eventually be listed by the UN Security Council. India will be patient because even China is aware that terrorism originates from Pakistan and there are terror groups on Pakistani soil working against Chinese interests, they added. The support for listing Azhar from all but one of the 15 members of the UN Security Council also reflected Pakistans lack of credibility, and India will not make any compromises or cut any deal for the sanctioning of the JeM chief, said a person familiar with the negotiations on this matter. India is hopeful that the listing will eventually go ahead in days or months, and not years, the person added. During their recent interactions with foreign secretary, Vijay Gokhale, key members of the Donald Trump administration and members of the Senate and House of Representatives had conveyed strong support for India and accepted New Delhis contention that it had acted in self-defence and with restraint after the Pulwama attack that killed at least 40 Central Reserve Police Force troopers , the people cited above said. Gokhale was in the US during March 11-13. At the same time, there was acknowledgement from American interlocutors that Pakistan hadnt taken adequate steps in the past to dismantle terrorist infrastructure and that it usually resorted to the same pattern on conducting a crackdown and then letting off terrorists when international pressure had eased, the people added. On February 26, Indian Air Force (IAF) jets bombed a JeM camp in Balakot in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan in what New Delhi described as a non military pre-emptive action. On February 27, after an air skirmish over the Line of Control in which the two countries lost one fighter plane each, Pakistan captured IAF Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, whom it released on March 1 in the face of pressure from the international community to lower tensions. Commodore (retired) C Uday Bhaskar, director of the Society for Policy Studies, said the Indian government may need to a rethink its efforts to get Pakistan to crack down on terrorism. Indias ability to get Pakistan to comply in relation to cracking down on terror groups that attack India is limited and the recent Chinese action was a case in point, he said. The challenge of terrorism is going to be increasingly determined by political filters and India will have to go back to the drawing board, he added. Flights operating from the three airports in Jammu and Kashmir -- Jammu, Srinagar, and Leh -- have been keeping their window shades down during take-off and landing. This is being done to avoid details of the deployment of assets such as fighters and surveillance platforms from leaking, according to people familiar with the matter who asked not to be identified. Officials in the civil aviation ministry said the airlines were advised to follow the practice soon after Indias air strike on a base of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group inside Pakistan on February 26. The cabin crew were coming to every seat and checking if the window shades were down, just as they check for seat belts. Being a frequent flier, I kept it open knowing it has to be kept open during take-off and landing. I was surprised when the crew asked me to close it. I tried to ask them why, but they only said there was a directive, said a passenger who recently travelled from Jammu. The Indian Air Force did not offer a comment. Officials at major airlines confirmed that they were following the directive, but refused to come on record. Hindustan Times could not confirm whether all airlines were following this directive. Deployments of fighters and other assets are top secret, more so when there is an Op-Alert (Operational Alert). Indian forces were put on an alert and full Air-Defence Alert minutes after Indian fighters hit the JeM camp in Balakot in Pakistans Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on 26 February, a senior ministry of defence (MoD) official said on condition of anonymity. The Leh airstrip is a critical airstrip for IAF. It is the northern-most airport where fighters can be deployed and has a critical role in protecting incoming threats. Jammu and Srinagar air bases have an operational role too and house fighters. Keeping deployment under wraps is a challenge with increased use of smartphones. Therefore flights carrying civilians are perhaps taking off and landing with the window shades pulled down, the MoD official added. This procedure is not limited to the Leh airport, but for all military airports that have an operational role and could used for operations at short notice. For instance, some critical air strips are allowing minimum use of the Instrument Landing System for non-military flights. Aviation safety experts say the procedure compromises safety guidelines. Window shades are kept open so that in case of rejected take off or crash landing, the crew knows which side of the plane the rescue teams are and evacuation is to be done to which side. Also, in case of fire, the rescue team positioned outside will know which side to break in from. It is a safety guideline and if airlines are not doing it then it is a violation, said Mohan Ranganathan, an aviation safety expert. Union minister and BJP leader Vijay Goel sparked a controversy on Saturday by calling Delhis municipal corporations corrupt. The three municipal corporations (MCD) has been under the BJP for the last 12 years. At a public meeting in Vikaspuri, Goel said, Aap mujhse kahoge MCD kaisi hai. Mein kahoonga chor hai. Mujhe koi inkar nahi hai. (If you ask me about MCD, Ill say it is a thief). His comments gave the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), that forms the government in Delhi, ammunition to attack the BJP. Its spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj tweeted a video clip of Goels event and said that senior BJP leaders have now admitted to corruption in civic bodies. Deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia tweeted, Are you calling MCD officials or BJP leaders (in MCD) thieves? Please clarify. When contacted, Goel said he stands by his statement. Im against corruption whether it is in MCD or Delhi government. We (BJP) has taken action to check on corruption in building department, in mutation of properties, functioning of MCDs by introducing biometric among other areas. We have to act against corruption officials in both MCD and Delhi government, said Goel. While senior party leaders said such statements, right now, could prove to be detrimental, the Delhi BJP came out in support of Vijay Goel. Its chief Manoj Tiwari said, I have also talked about corruption in the municipal corporations of Delhi. There are some good officers and some corrupt officers. We are trying to make the civic body corruption-free. Delhi minister Rajendra Pal Gautam criticised Goel for not doing anything to stop corruption in the three MCDs. The chowkidars in MCDs are themselves stealing money. Vijay Goel acknowledged MCD is corrupt. But, what has he done to stop it? ? With Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar ailing, the Goa Congress has written to Governor Mridula Sinha asking her to dismiss the BJP-led coalition regime and invite the party to form the government in the state. The Congress said, the numbers of the BJP may further dwindle in the Goa Assembly. In a letter addressed to the Governor, Leader of Opposition Chandrakant Kavlekar has pointed out that the incumbent BJP led state government under the leadership of Manohar Parrikar, which has long lost the trust of the people, has also lost the strength of the house. It is therefore incumbent upon you to dismiss this state government and ensure that the Indian National Congress Party which is the single largest party in the august house and is presently enjoying the majority be called to form the government, Kavlekar says in his letter. The BJP has called a meeting of its MLAs at 7.30 pm today, possibly to discuss the situation in the state. The Congress was the single largest party with 17 MLAs when the election results were declared in February 2017. But the party lost three MLAs to the BJP, which formed the government in the state after shifting then Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar from New Delhi to Goa as chief minister. Vishwajit Rane was the first Congress MLA to quit and he was welcomed into the BJP and made a minister before he was reelected. Two other Congress MLAs Dayanand Sopte and Subhash Shirodkar quit the party in October last year to join the BJP. They are facing a by-election along with the Lok Sabha elections bringing the BJP on par with the Congress at 14 MLAs each. However, with the demise of BJP MLA Francis DSouza in February this year, the Congress once again became the single largest party in the house. In October last year too, the Congress staked claim to form the government and called for a floor test but its request was ignored by the Governor. The claim to form the government comes at a time when reports have indicated that Chief Minister Manohar Parrikars health has taken a turn for the worse. The Chief Ministers Office has however stated that he continues to be stable. Besides the ailing Parrikar, another BJP MLA Pandurang Madkaikar is unwell and hasnt been seen since he suffered a stroke in June last year leaving the Congress in a pole position if the government needs to prove its majority. The Congress has also warned that any action in violation of the constitutional mandate to invite the single largest party to form the government and any attempt to bring the state under Presidents Rule will be undemocratic and illegal and will be challenged as deemed fit. The BJP has a strength of 12 fit MLAs (not including Parrikar and Madkaikar) and in addition, enjoys the support of three each from the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party, the Goa Forward Party and three independents. The Congress has 14 MLAs on its side while the strength of the house now stands at 37 (including Parrikar and Madkaikar). Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) leader Danish Ali on Saturday joined the Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party, ahead of the coming Lok Sabha elections. Ali joined the BSP in the presence of the partys national general secretary Satish Mishra at the BSP office in Lucknow. According to BSP sources, Ali, who was considered as a top leader in former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda party, is likely to contest from Amroha in western Uttar Pradesh. Commenting on the development Karnataka Chief Minister and senior JD-S leader HD Kumaraswamy said Ali joined the BSP with his and father Deve Gowdas consent. Danish Ali, the JDS General Secretary, has joined BSP in consent with me and our national president Sri HD Devegowda in a purely political arrangement between the two parties. It is a thoughtful political decision taken by #JDS and BSP to win more seats in the Loksabha elections, Kumaraswamy wrote on Twitter. My ideology matches with Mayawatis ideology. We both strive to uplift the poor and weaker sections of the society. I now want to invest my energy for making the lives of the poor better, news agency ANI quoted Ali as saying. The BSP, which scored a nil in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls is contesting the general elections this time in the state in alliance with the Samajwadi Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal. The BJP-led NDA alliance had won 73 out of 80 seats in the state in 2014. The seven phased Lok Sabha elections is scheduled from April 11 to May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. The Bharatiya Janata Party suffered a major embarrassment in Uttarakhand on Saturday, when its MP and former chief minister BC Khanduris son Manish Khanduri joined the Congress at a rally addressed by party president Rahul Gandhi. Gandhi took this occasion to target Prime Minister Narendra Modi explaining the reason why BC Khanduris son Manish Khanduri joined the Congress party. There is a reason why (Manish) Khanduriji is here, Gandhi said adding, BC Khanduri was the chairman of defence committee of Parliament. He gave his whole life for the country and the armed forces. But when he asked a question on national security in the committee saying the government is not doing what it should do to help the armed forces, Mr Narendra Modi removed him from his position. There is no space for truth in the BJP, Gandhi said at the mega rally in Uttarakhand, where he reiterated that the BJP-led government at the Centre was scared of a joint-parliamentary probe into the Rafale deal. At his Parivartan Rally in Dehrudun, Gandhi launched fresh attack on PM Modi over Rafale deal alleging that he renegotiated the defence contract with France to help industrialist Anil Ambani. PM Modi had put a condition before France that if it wants to sell Rafale jets to India, Anil Ambani must get the contract, Gandhi said claiming that former French president Francois Hollande had revealed this. The Congress president also linked the removal of former Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) chief Alok Verma from his position to Rafale deal. Gandhi said, The CBI chief wanted to probe (Rafale deal) but Mr Narendra Modi removed him from his post at 1.30 in the night. Gandhi was addressing Parivartan Rally in Uttarkhands Dehradun, where the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party had to face a major embarrassment when party MP and former chief minister BC Khanduris son Manish Khanduri joined the Congress. The Congress president has been relentless in his attack on the Modi government on the issue of Rafale deal. Gandhi has alleged malfeasance in the Rs 59,000 crore defence contract with France. He has maintained that the government paid more to the French firm Dassault Aviation, which manufactures Rafale fighter jets under the 2016 deal in comparison to the one being negotiated during the Congress-led UPA regime. Gandhi claims that each Rafale jet was to cost Rs 500 under the UPA-era deal but the cost escalated to Rs 1,600 after the Modi government signed new agreement with the French government. The government has denied allegations of irregularities in the Rafale deal. Cong seals alliance with Apna Dal, gives 2 Lok Sabha seats in UP The Congress on Saturday finalised the seat-sharing agreement with the Apna Dal led by Krishna Patel and allocated it two Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh. The Apna Dal will contest from two parliamentary constituencies -- Pilibhit and Gonda, the Congress announced. Pankaj Niranjan Singh Chandel, the son-in-law of Patel, joined the Congress in the presence of party president Rahul Gandhi and general secretaries Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Jyotiraditya Scindia. Patel was also present there. EC fixes timeline for release of manifesto by political parties The Election Commission of India has fixed the outer limit for release of manifesto during elections In case of single phase election, manifesto shall not be released during the prohibitory period, as prescribed under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. In case of multi-phase elections, manifesto shall not be released during the prohibitory periods, as prescribed under Section L26 of rhe Representation of the People Act, 1951, ofall the phases of those elections. Manifesto cannot be released 48 hours before each phase in a multi phase election. Cong discusses poll preparedness in J-K The state election management committee of the Congress held its meeting here on Saturday and discussed the preparedness of the party in Jammu and Kashmir in view of the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, a party spokesman said. Leader of opposition in the Rajya Sabha and chairman of the committee Ghulam Nabi Azad chaired the two-and-a-half-hour-long meeting at his official residence, chief spokesperson of the state Congress Ravinder Sharma said. BJP calls meeting of its MLAs in Goa The BJP has called a meeting of its MLAs at 7.30 pm today, possibly to discuss the situation in the state. Congress stakes claim to form govt in Goa With Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar ailing, the Goa Congress has written to Governor Mridula Sinha asking her to dismiss the BJP-led coalition regime and invite the party to form the government in the state. The Congress said, the numbers of the BJP may further dwindle in the Goa Assembly. In a letter addressed to the Governor, Leader of Opposition Chandrakant Kavlekar has pointed out that the incumbent BJP led state government under the leadership of Manohar Parrikar, which has long lost the trust of the people, has also lost the strength of the house. BJP CEC to discuss candidates for Bihar, Uttarakhand, Assam among other: Sources BJP Central Election Committee (CEC) to discuss candidates for Bihar, Uttarakhand, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Tripura, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Jammu & Kashmir, and Andaman & Nicobar islands, in its meeting today, reported news agency ANI quoting sources. PM Modi arrives for BJPs CEC meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at BJP headquarters for the partys Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting. He was received by BJP President Amit Shah. Apna Dal finalises deal with BJP, to contest on two UP seats Apna Dal, a BJP ally in Uttar Pradesh which was upset with the party for some time and had been threatening to quit the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), will now contest on two seats in the state in alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The announcement was made by BJP president Amit Shah after meeting Apna Dal leader and union minister Anupriya Patel. Anupriya, the sitting MP from Mirzapur, will contest from Mirzapur only. The second seat from which the Apna Dal will contest will be decided in consultation with the BJP. The BJP may offer Phulpur to Apna Dal. The Phulpur constituency which is dominated by Kurmis, an OBC sub-caste, was vacated by Keshav Prasad Maurya in 2017 after he took over as deputy chief minister of Uttar Pradesh. Senior BJP leaders arrive for CEC meet, first list likely today Senior BJP leaders Arun Jaitley, Rajnath Singh, and Sushma Swaraj Saturday reached BJP headquarters for partys Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting. Union minister Kiren Rijiju and former MP CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan also arrived for the same. The BJP is likely to release its first list of candidates for Lok Sabha elections 2019. Under Rahul Gandhis leadership, congress will make country stronger: Manish Khanduri Manish Khanduri, son of ex-Uttarakhand CM and BJP leader BC Khanduri, on joining Congress: I believe that under Rahul Gandhis leadership, Congress will make country stronger. Before coming here,I sought blessings of my father. He asked me if I can walk on path of truth,I said, yes, reports news agency ANI Manish Khanduri, son of ex-Uttarakhand CM&BJP leader BC Khanduri, on joining Congress: I believe that under Rahul Gandhi's leadership, Congress will make country stronger. Before coming here,I sought blessings of my father. He asked me if I can walk on path of truth,I said, 'yes pic.twitter.com/4sOvWWzRlS ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 Congress chief visits family of security personnel killed in Kashmir Uttarakhand: Congress President Rahul Gandhi visits the family of Major Chitresh Singh Bisht at the latters residence in Dehradun. Major Chitresh Singh Bisht lost his life on 16 Feb while defusing an IED which was planted by terrorists across the LoC in Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir, reports news agency ANI Uttarakhand: Congress President Rahul Gandhi meets the family of Major Chitresh Singh Bisht at the latter's residence in Dehradun. Major Chitresh Singh Bisht lost his life on 16 Feb while defusing an IED which was planted by terrorists across the LoC in Rajouri district, J&K. pic.twitter.com/oy8hG3c63h ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 . BJP MP Shyama Charan Gupta joins SP BJP Member of Parliament from Prayagraj Shyama Charan Gupta joins Samajwadi Party. He will be contesting Lok Sabha election from Banda constituency, reports news agency ANI. PM Modi spent Rs 3044 crore spent on advertisement: Mayawati Prime Minister Narendra Modi spent Rs 3044 crore on advertisements, claims Mayawati, reports news agency ANI. PM Modi spent Rs 3044cr on advertisements, claims Mayawati Read @ANI story | https://t.co/JgyPToynxg pic.twitter.com/6UiSSHdMzU ANI Digital (@ani_digital) March 16, 2019 PM Modi sacked BC Khanduri, as he had raised question on obsolete weapon in Army: Rahul Rahul Gandhi in Dehradun: He (BC Khanduri) gave all his life to Army. But when he asked a question on national security in Parliament & spoke the truth that the way government should help Army, it is not there, then he was removed from the Chairmanship of that Committee. Rahul Gandhi in Dehradun: He (BC Khanduri) gave all his life to Army. But when he asked a question on national security in Parliament & spoke the truth that the way govt should help Army, it is not there, then he was removed from the Chairmanship of that Committee. pic.twitter.com/db1DOBTxqr ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 SP-BSP alliance nothing but a false alarm: UP CM Yogi Adtiyanath UP CM Adityanath dismisses SP-BSP alliance as nothing but hauaa (false alarm), reports news agency PTI No impact of Priyanka Gandhi in UP politics: UP CM Yogi Priyanka Gandhis entry into politics will make no difference to BJPs poll prospect in UP: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, reports news agency PTI PM was busy shooting for film after Pulwama: Rahul For over 3 hours after Pulwama terror attack, PM Modi was shooting for a film: Rahul Gandhi in Dehradun After Pulwama, extended full support to gov. against terrorism: Rahul Gandhi As soon as Pulwama occurred,we cancelled every event and extended our full support to the Government of India against Terrorism. Former JD(S) leader Danish Ali joins BSP Danish Ali on joining BSP: JD(S) doesnt have a large organisational structure in Uttar Pradesh. Despite all my efforts I could not have raised it in my janmabhoomi, my karmabhoomi.The way in which there is a threat to constitution today, it has become essential to use our energy with a strong leadership. Lucknow: JD(S) General Secretary Danish Ali, who until recently was involved in alliance negotiations with Congress and JD(S), joins Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). pic.twitter.com/tsvqqlofU6 ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 16, 2019 Son of BJP Member of Parliament BC Khanduri joins Congress Son of BJP Member of Parliament BC Khanduri, Manish Khanduri joins Congress party Dehradun, Uttarakhand: Manish Khanduri, the son of former Uttarakhand CM and BJP leader Maj Gen (Retd) BC Khanduri, joins Congress party. pic.twitter.com/i6ysu6IWq9 ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 Son of BJP MP BC Khanduris Manish Khanduri likely to join Congress Son of BJP MP BC Khanduris, Manish Khanduri reached at Congress rally. He is likely to join the Congress soon, party leaders said, even as Manish refused to comment on the matter. The Congress party leaders said Manish Khanduri would be joining the party in the presence of Congress president Rahul Gandhi on March 16. He is likely to be fielded from the Pauri Lok Sabha constituency, from where his father is the current sitting BJP MP. Putting behind it the 2G telecom spectrum and other scandals, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) is set to rehabilitate the political career of former telecom minister A Raja, party patriarch, the late M Karunanidhis daughter, Kanimozhi, and his grand nephew, Dayanidhi Maran, in the Lok Sabha polls. All three are hoping to contest the polls, and like other aspirants, have applied to the DMK leadership to be included among its candidates, a rite of passage in the Dravidian party. They have also appeared for an interview before the leadership, and only a formal announcement of their candidacy is awaited, according to people familiar with the development who spoke on condition of anonymity. While Kanimozhi is the lone claimant for the Thoothukudi seat, Raja and Maran have sought to be fielded as DMK candidates from the Nilgiris reserved constituency and Central Chennai, respectively. Raja and Maran had unsuccessfully contested these seats in 2014. For Kanimozhi, currently a member of the Rajya Sabha, it would be the first time she contests a direct election in her political career. For Maran, the Central Chennai seat is an important one because it was once represented by his father, the late Murasoli Maran. With Maran and his brother, Kalandhi, controlling the influential Sun TV network, Dayanidhis claim to the seat could not be ignored, said DMK functionaries. While Maran has been keeping a low profile, Raja and Kanimozhi have emerged as key players in the party, especially after their acquittal in the 2G spectrum case by a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) special court in 2017. The CBI last year challenged their acquittal and that of others in the case in the Delhi high court. A special CBI court in 2017 discharged Dayanidhi Maran and Kalanithi Maran in a case in which the former telecom minister and his brother were accused of forcing serial entrepreneur C Sivasankaran to sell his stake in telecom company Aircel to Maxis of Malaysia in a quid pro quo transaction. It was Kanimozhi, as the emissary of her half brother and DMK president MK Stalin, who clinched the seat sharing deal with the Congress for the Lok Sabha poll s by camping in New Delhi. She was the interlocutor with the Congress leadership. Now, in her first ever electoral battle, Kanimozhi has opted for the southern coastal constituency of Thoothukudi. Well, it reinforces the view that the realpolitik of Dravidian parties is a cloak to camouflage their accommodation of OBC [other backward class] dominance... Her mother, Rajathi, hails from the mercantile Nadar community, which is numerically dominant in the constituency..., says C Lakshmanan, an associate professor at the Madras Institute of Development Studies. In the case of Raja, he is not only the Dalit face of the party but a frontline leader who has the backing of the party high command. His choice of Nilgiris, too, is not without reason. Tea estate workers of Sri Lankan Tamil origin constitute a substantial chunk of the electorate in the constituency. And his family, too, is of Sri Lankan Tamil origin, which would stand him in good stead in the election. The DMK dismissed suggestions that the three were being rehabilitated despite the stain of the 2G and other telecom scandals. The court has acquitted them and it has been proved that the charges against the party were nothing but a campaign by vested interests. By spreading this calumny, our rivals have come to power but, truth has prevailed. Those harping on it even now only expose their intellectual and political shallowness, said DMK organising secretary RS Bharathi. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Friday indicated to party leaders that she will not contest the Lok Sabha election but will focus on the partys campaign across the country instead, a party leader said. She will kick off her partys national campaign from the Odisha capital Bhubaneswar on April 2, the party leader said. In 2014, the BSP had contested 503 Lok Sabha seats but won none with a countrywide vote share of 5%. In Uttar Pradesh, she will hold the first joint rally with her alliance partners, the Samajwadi Party and Rashtriya Lok Dal, in Deoband on April 7. Mayawati will also campaign for Samajwadi Party candidates across the state, including SP patron Mulayam Singh Yadav, who is contesting from Mainpuri. She will also address rallies in Kannauj, Firozabad and Badaun from where Dimple Yadav, Akshya Yadav and Dharmendra Yadav are contesting, to give a boost to the alliance campaign. A senior party leader said the BSP appointed Ritesh Pandey as the party in-charge of Ambedkar Nagar seat, Girish Chandra Jatava in-charge of Nagina seat and Haji Iqbal as in-charge of Bijnore seat. These three seats were earlier shortlisted for the party chief, the party leader said. Mayawati had said at a party meeting on Wednesday that party leaders had requested her to contest the election. At the same time, she had said as she was the partys only star campaigner it will be not possible for her to focus on a single constituency.. In Cambodia: Prostitutes, or women pretending to proposition men, will lurk outside touristy bars, waiting for the lone drunk male. Theyll then hustle him, running their hands over his body asking for a date or to be taken home. The man will refuse and escape, but later find that the women had stolen the wallet, phone or cash from his pockets. In Nepal: Beware the man who sells you weed. Hell rat you out to his friends, wholl accost you dressed as the police and demand money to let you go and not turn you over to the actual police. In Indonesia: Watch out for fake ticket booths in front of big tourist attractions or festivals they sell expensive entry passes to something that is either free or cheaply priced. Tourists realise the scam only once they pass through the gates. Exits are often all the way on the other side, so no one bothers to come back for a refund. In Spain: The scammers try everything from pickpocketing and street crime to hidden taxes and cheating taximen. Some scammers will go so far as to hide in a large luggage bag to get into the hold of an overnight bus so they can rip open bags and steal cameras and other valuables. In the US: A common scam in touristy Las Vegas is the driver who will offer to remove your luggage from the boot of the car. Its only later that you realise one bag is missing. But most tourists agree that the larger scams are those perpetrated by the hotel industry, which is notorious for advertising low hotel, travel, buffets and park entry rates, but charging your credit card for undisclosed taxes, fees and convenience charges. In London: A common scam rolls out in the late hours, when youve checked into your hotel room at the end of a long day. The hotel phone rings with someone from reception sheepishly apologising that the card you used to book the room has been declined, and would you please give them the details once more? Youll do it over the phone, preferring not to head downstairs. Its only later that youll find the call was not from the hotel but from a scamster who had been given your name and room number by a hotel staff member. In Italy: Pickpocketing is extremely well organised. Locals will warn you that there are pickpockets in the area and watch as you check your wallet and pat your handbag, noting the locations to target later. In China: English-speaking Chinese who say they happen to be visiting from out of town will ask you to join them for a traditional tea ceremony theyve booked. The ceremony will be in a rundown place, offering low-quality tea at high prices and youll realise you were duped by locals pretending to be tourists. US President Donald Trump on Friday dismissed concerns that the massacre by an apparent white supremacist in New Zealand indicates a dangerous trend. Trump was asked if the killing of at least 49 people in two mosques in Christchurch by a man claiming that white people are being overwhelmed in their historic homelands demonstrates a rising problem around the world. I dont really. I think its a small group of people that have very, very serious problems, I guess, Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. If you look what happened in New Zealand, perhaps thats the case. I dont know enough about it yet. Although Trump referred to the bloodbath as horrific and terrible, his comments downplaying the potentially wider threat were likely to face criticism. Trump has been repeatedly accused before of making comments that were at best insensitive and at worst racist when it comes to race relations and far-right movements. The alleged gunman -- identified as an Australian white nationalist -- apparently livestreamed the assault on social media and published a manifesto filled with racist conspiracy theories. He also referred to Trump as a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose. Asked if hed seen the manifesto, Trump said: I did not. Earlier, he tweeted that hed spoken with New Zealands Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern to express solidarity and to say, We love you New Zealand! - Very fine people - In 2017, even many of Trumps closest supporters were reportedly appalled by his refusal to condemn a march by torch-bearing neo-Nazis in Charlottesville, Virginia. The march ended in violent clashes with leftist protesters and Trump appeared to spread the blame equally, even though the right-wing demonstrators had been chanting a Nazi-era slogan blood and soil. You also had some very fine people on both sides, he said. In December an American neo-Nazi was sentenced to life in prison for driving his car into a group of counter-protesters during the white supremacist rally, killing a woman. Trump has also been accused of whipping up xenophobia with his long-running campaign to build more walls along the US-Mexican border, which he says is under invasion by illegal immigrants. On Friday, he signed the first veto of his presidency to dismiss congressional pushback against his declaration of emergency powers to get billions of dollars in wall funding. - Farther and farther right - Trump has repeatedly denied racist tendencies and often touts his work in improving economic conditions among the countrys racial minorities. However, the right of his party, which includes his most reliable political base, increasingly flirts openly with white nationalism and wild conspiracy theories. Rush Limbaugh, the popular right-wing radio host, said Friday that the New Zealand bloodbath may even have been what conspiracy theorists call a false flag designed to discredit Trump. Theres an ongoing theory that the shooter himself may in fact be a leftist who writes the manifesto and then goes out and performs the deed purposely to smear his political enemies, knowing hes going to get shot in the process, Limbaugh said. Brian Levin, director at the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism, said, however, that the problem could not be more real. White nationalism and far right extremism is the most prominent extremist threat facing the United States today, and indeed it is a worldwide phenomenon, he said. New Zealands prime minister vowed to toughen the countrys gun laws after revealing Saturday that the man accused of murdering 49 people in two mosques legally purchased the arsenal of firearms used in the massacre. Jacinda Ardern said the gunman, 28-year-old Australian Brenton Tarrant, obtained a Category A gun licence in November 2017 and began purchasing the five weapons used in Fridays attacks in the southern city of Christchurch the following month. The firearms included two semi-automatic rifles, two shotguns and a lever-action weapon, she said, speaking to reporters in Wellington before heading to Christchurch. Also read: New Zealand mosque attack suspect smirks in court after being charged with murder The mere fact... that this individual had acquired a gun licence and acquired weapons of that range, then obviously I think people will be seeking change, and Im committing to that, she said. While work is being done as to the chain of events that led to both the holding of this gun licence, and the possession of these weapons, I can tell you one thing right now -- our gun laws will change. Watch| New Zealand mosque attack suspect charged with murder, appears in court Also read: New Zealand massacre shows how online users find ways to share violent videos She confirmed that the gunman and two suspected associates who were also arrested had not been on the radar of any intelligence agencies, even though he had published a manifesto online indicating plans for attacks on Muslims. They were not on any watchlists either here or in Australia, she said. Also read: Imam of attacked New Zealand mosque in Christchurch says we still love this country The individual charged with murder had not come to the attention of the intelligence community, nor the police, for extremism, she added. I have asked our agencies this morning to work swiftly on assessing whether there was any activity on social media or otherwise, that should have triggered a response. That work is already underway. Also read: 9 Indian-origin people missing after New Zealand shootings that killed 49 Given global indicators around far-right extremism, our intelligence community has been stepping up their investigations in this area. Relaxed laws New Zealand tightened its gun laws to restrict access to semi-automatic rifles in 1992, two years after a mentally ill man shot dead 13 people in the southern town of Aramoana. But firearms laws are lax compared to neighbouring Australia, which enacted a strict gun control regime in the wake of a similar massacre in 1996, and most other developed nations outside of the United States. Also read: 2 Hyderabadis among victims in New Zealand mosque shooting, one injured, another not traced yet Anyone over 16 can apply for a New Zealand firearms licence, valid for 10 years after completing a safety course and a police background check. Most guns do not require registration under New Zealands Arms Act and police do not know how many legally or illegally owned firearms there are in New Zealand, according to a police statement last year. Also read: Terror attack on New Zealand mosques very well planned, says Police In 2014, police estimated there were up to 1.2 million legal firearms in civilian ownership, or around one for every four members of the public - twice the per capita number of guns in Australia. Separate endorsements are required to own semi-automatic weapons like those used in Fridays attack, as well as pistols and other restricted weapons. But police and firearms experts have pointed to several loopholes allowing owners to bypass registration of semi-automatics. Ardern noted the failure of several earlier attempts to reform gun laws and said a ban on semi-automatic weapons would be considered. A 1997 police review of gun laws called for such a ban, but attempts to update the Arms Act since 1992 have stalled in parliament. Also read | New Zealand set to ban semi-automatic weapons Two of the nine people of Indian nationality or origin, reported missing after the New Zealand mosque attacks on Friday, have been located, according to sources in the external affairs ministry. Seven of them are Indian nationals. The sources said two Indian nationals are injured but out of danger. Five other Indian nationals and two New Zealand citizens of Indian origin are still missing, the sources said. At least 49 people were killed when a gunman, identified as an Australian citizen, opened indiscriminate firings at the Al Noor Mosque and the Linwood Mosque in Christchurch on Friday. Following the attacks, Indian envoy to New Zealand Sanjiv Kohli tweeted about nine people of Indian nationality or Indian origin missing. Meanwhile, news agency PTI has reported that Indian national from Hyderabad Ahmed Iqbal Jahangir, who was shot at one of the mosques in New Zealand, is recovering at a hospital. Iqbal was shot in chest during the mass shooting incident. I thank the government for helping me get a visa to New Zealand. I am leaving today to see my brother. He is out of danger and recovering, PTI quoted his brother Khursheed Jahangir as saying. However, the news agency reported that the parents of another Indian from Hyderabad Farhaj Ahsan, whose missing case AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi raised with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in a tweet on Thursday, were still clueless about his whereabouts. The attacks on mosques during Friday prayers were condemned by the international community. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep shock and sadness over the death of scores of people in the heinous terrorist attack in a letter to his New Zealand counterpart Jacinda Ardern. Australian-born 28-year-old Brenton Tarrant stood in the dock wearing handcuffs and a white prison smock, as the judge read a single murder charge against him. Tarrant smirked when media persons photographed him during the hearing and was seen making the white power gesture, according to news agency ANI. A right-wing extremist who filmed himself on a rampage that left 49 mosque-goers dead, Tarrant, flashed a white power sign as he appeared in Saturday. A raft of further charges were expected. Watch: New Zealand mosque attack suspect charged with murder, appears in court The former fitness instructor and self-professed fascist occasionally turned to look at media present in court during the brief hearing that the public were excluded from for security reasons. Flanked by armed police he flashed an upside-down okay signal, a symbol used by white power groups across the globe. He did not request bail and was taken into custody until his next court appearance which is scheduled for April 5. A short distance away, 39 people were being treated in hospital for gunshot wounds and other injuries inflicted in the massacre. They included a two-year-old boy and a four-year-old girl, who is in critical condition. Also read | New Zealand set to ban semi-automatic weapons Doctors at Christchurch hospital said they worked through the night in 12 operating theatres to do what they could to save the survivors. For many, the road to recovery will require multiple surgical procedures and many survivors said the mental scars may never fully heal. The attack on the Al Noor and Linwood mosques has been labelled terrorism by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and is thought to be the deadliest attack directed against Muslims in the West in modern times. Outside the court, the son of 71-year-old Afghan victim Daoud Nabi demanded justice for his late father, who believed New Zealand to be a slice of paradise. Also read | Lets get this party started: Gunman before New Zealand mosque shootings Its outrageous, the feeling is outrageous, he said. Its beyond imagination. Ardern said the victims came from across the Muslim world, with Turkey, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Malaysia among the countries rendering consular assistance. One Saudi citizen and two Jordanians were among the dead, while five Pakistani citizens were missing. - Grief and shock - The attack has prompted an outpouring of grief and deep shock in this usually peaceful and hospitable country, which prides itself on welcoming refugees fleeing violence or persecution. Although shops were shuttered and many decided to stay at home, Christchurch residents piled bouquets of flowers at a makeshift memorial near the Al Noor mosque, many accompanied with handwritten letters laden with sadness and disbelief. I am so sorry that you were not safe here. Our hearts are breaking for your loss, read one of the notes marked with a string of x-kisses. Ardern, who arrived in Christchurch Saturday, said the shooter was not on any watchlist and did not have a criminal record. The offender was in possession of a gun licence obtained in November 2017, and he started purchasing the weapons the following month, she said. Two semi-automatic weapons, two shotguns and lever-action gun were used in the attacks. Two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were found in a car and neutralised by the military, while police raided a home in the southern city of Dunedin, where Ardern said the suspect was based. While work is being done as to the chain of events that led to both the holding of this gun licence and the possession of these weapons, I can tell you one thing right now -- our gun laws will change, she said. Also read | New Zealand massacre shows how online users find ways to share violent videos The suspect documented his radicalisation and two years of preparations in a lengthy, meandering and conspiracy filled far-right manifesto. He live-streamed footage of himself going room-to-room, victim to victim, shooting the wounded from close range as they struggled to crawl away in the main Christchurch mosque. Thirty-six minutes after the police received the first call, Tarrant was in custody. Commissioner Mike Bush hailed the absolute bravery of both police and members of the public who put themselves in harms way to apprehend the suspect. Their intervention may very likely have saved further lives. Two other people remain in custody, although their link to the attack is not clear. One man, 18-year-old Daniel Burrough, has been charged with incitement. Another person who was earlier arrested was said to be a member of the public carrying a firearm who was trying to help. - Horrible massacre - Tributes to the victims poured in from around the world. US President Donald Trump condemned the horrible massacre in which innocent people have so senselessly died, but denied that the problem of right-wing extremism was widespread. Speaking in Sydney, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison described the gunman as an extremist, right-wing, violent terrorist. New South Wales police commissioner Mick Fuller said police had visited Tarrants childhood home in the town of Grafton, north of Sydney, and spoken to family members as part of their investigation. The attack has prompted searching questions about whether right-wing extremism has been treated with enough seriousness by Western governments. Also read | Donald Trump dismisses white nationalism threat after New Zealand massacre Ali Soufan, a former high-ranking FBI counter-terrorism agent, said the threat needs to be treated with the same seriousness as jihadist violence. We are in the midst of a surge of right-wing terrorism that has been metastasising in plain sight while generating only a muted response from domestic counter-terrorism authorities, he said. Ardern said she would be reviewing events leading up to the attack to see how the suspect went unnoticed by authorities. The individual charged with murder had not come to the attention of the intelligence community, nor the police, for extremism, she said. I have asked our agencies this morning to work swiftly on assessing whether there was any activity on social media or otherwise, that should have triggered a response. That work is already underway. Also read | From Munich to Christchurch: When violence hit sports Christchurch A one-time gym trainer from rural Australia who became steeped in neo-fascist ideology during travels in Europe, Brenton Tarrant described himself as an ordinary white man -- until he became anything but ordinary. The gunman behind the massacre of 49 people in two New Zealand mosques flashed a white power sign during a brief court appearance Saturday, but he was not on any terrorist watch-list and appeared to have no criminal history. Tarrant, 28, grew up in the small town of Grafton in northern New South Wales, where he graduated high school before earning some fitness qualifications and going on to find work at a local gym in 2009. The gyms owner, Tracey Gray, described him as a hard-working trainer but said he appeared to have been changed by his travels in Europe and Asia -- which social media posts suggested included trips as far afield as Pakistan and North Korea. I think something must have changed in him during the years he spent travelling overseas, Gray told national broadcaster ABC. New Zealand mosque attack suspect charged with murder, appears in court Somewhere along the lines, experiences or a group have got a hold of him, she said. Grays speculation was backed up by a rambling, hate-filled, manifesto Tarrant posted to social media ahead of the Christchurch killings. In the 74-page screed, he says he first began considering an attack in April and May of 2017 while travelling in France and elsewhere in Western Europe. He mentions being shocked at the invasion of French cities by immigrants and his despair at the French presidential vote that year which saw pro-European centrist Emmanuel Macron defeat his far-right opponent Marine Le Pen. In a brief biographical sketch included in his manifesto, Tarrant describes himself as just a ordinary white man... born in Australia to a working class, low income family. His childhood was regular and, he insisted, issue-free. He barely achieved a passing grade in school and had no interest in pursuing higher education. According to media reports, his father died of cancer in 2010 and gym owner Gray said she believed he had a mother and sister still living in Grafton. Tarrant left the gym in 2011 and his travels, he says, were funded by money he made investing in Bitconnect -- an open source cryptocurrency that collapsed in early 2018 amid charges it was a glorified Ponzi scheme. Two modified semi-automatic weapons -- reportedly AR-15s -- two shotguns and a lever-action gun were used in Fridays deadly rampage, and photos of the weaponry with distinctive writing on them were posted on social media days before. Scrawled in English and several Eastern European languages were the names of numerous historical military figures -- many of them Europeans involved in fighting the Ottoman forces in the 15th and 16th centuries. A few took part in the Crusades, centuries earlier. Ankara on Friday said it was investigating Tarrants multiple visits to Turkey, and who he might have met while he was there. The Bulgarian government has also said it was looking into Tarrant, who apparently visited the country late last year, as well as having earlier travelled to other parts of the Balkans -- including Serbia, Croatia, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Tarrants manifesto said he took inspiration from other right-wing extremists including racist Norwegian killer Anders Behring Breivik, who murdered 77 people in Norway in 2011 motivated by his hatred of multiculturalism. Tarrant described Oswald Mosley, a notorious British fascist leader and anti-Semite from the 1930s, as the person from history closest to my own beliefs. (This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text.) SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 16) A former mayor of a town in Zamboanga del Sur was arrested in an anti-drug operation Friday. Wilkins Villanueva, regional director of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Region 10, said former Midsalip, Zamboanga del Sur mayor Liwaya Angcap-Paras was arrested in Barangay Talairon in Oroquieta City, Misamis Occidental. Also arrested was Leander Lumantas, who Villanueva identified as the former mayor's live-in partner and a known drug user. In a post on his social media page Villanueva said 15 sachets of suspected shabu, as well as firearms and ammunition were seized from Angcap-Paras. Villanueva said Angcap-Paras is a member of the Kubal drug group and is seventh on the list of top drug personalities in the province. A search warrant was issued a day after President Rodrigo Duterte introduced a narco list. Angcap-Paras is the daughter of incumbent Midsalip Mayor Leonida Angcap, who is running for reelection under PDP-Laban and was tagged by the President in the narco list. However, the mayor denied her involvement in illegal drugs. In an interview she said she submitted herself to the appropriate agencies and was cleared. Zamboanga del Sur-based stringer Marlon Panares contributed to this report. Would you like to receive our daily news? Signup today! Sign up to receive notifications when a new Columbia Gorge News e-Edition is published. Error! There was an error processing your request. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. News and Info from our Community Partners Information from the News and our advertisers (Want to add your business to this to this feed?) "Big Boss" Keke Palmer is back to spread a little love and positivity, this time with a rhyme that focuses on authenticity. The Pimp star took to Instagram to drop a beat and spit a few bars about folks who are living their lives on social media but not being true to themselves. She begins by talking about how people are "faking trips, just for flicks" and how she doesn't have time for it. The "make believe" life isn't what truly living is about and she tells people to "leave it alone." Her uplifting bars will hopefully help some out there realize that the social media comparison game is just a facade and that they should be appreciative of who they are and what they have. This isn't the first time Palmer has stepped forward to advocate self-love, as she previously sat down AOL to discuss how the self-care movement became her lifestyle. "I experienced a lot," she said. "The thought process that I developed allowed me to be so objective about things that happened in my life, but I had to experience the pain first in order to get there. So I went through a very tough time and I realized that the only way that I would be able to get out of that was with a positive outlook, and through that positive outlook, I began to grow closer to myself and understand the importance of self-love. And it's that love that you give yourself that allows you to not take so much of the outside world personally. This past week, a noted mobster believed to be acting boss of the Gambino Crime Family was found dead outside his private residence. Without making further presumptions over the case, it might be worth reporting the details which have come to light since Frank Cali's death. For one, a 24-year-old man from Brick, New Jersey has already been arrested in connection with the murder. https://twitter.com/_/status/1106935925815365632 After reaching out to Jersey officials governing their jurisdiction over the case, the NYPD has identified the suspect as Anthony Camello, whom they claim is a known conspiracy theorist. They were able to link him to Cali's murder after finding his fingerprints on a silver Cadillac Escalade belonging to the deceased mobster. The Feds are upholding surveillance footage showing Camello picking up the fallen license plate of Cali's Cadillac Escalade, handing it over, retreating a few steps, then opening fire on the reputed crime boss. Somewhere within that exchange, the two men are believed to have shaken hands, a most ominous way to go out. Chief of Detectives Dermot Shea says that he and his NYPD constituents are unclear as to Carmello's motives, but they're sure it's him in the surveillance footage. They aren't ready to rule out the possibility that Camello was acting on someone else's command or on a contract killing. [Via] Federal regulators gave the proposed Texas LNG export terminal at the Port of Brownsville a green light in an environmental report alongside a warning about habitat fragmentation for the endangered ocelot, jaguarundi and aplomado falcon, if other similar projects are also approved. In a final environmental impact statement issued Friday, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission concluded that the Texas LNG project would have adverse environmental impacts, but they could be mitigated through proper planning, design, engineering and training during construction and operations. Among the recommendations are using electric motors to reduce noise and emissions, installing barriers to control erosion, planting native vegetation and limiting construction activities during breeding periods. Located along the Brownsville Ship Channel and next to the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, the proposed liquefied natural gas export terminal is inside a migratory corridor between the United States and Mexico for the ocelot, jaguarundi and aplomado falcon. Although the effects can be mitigated for Texas LNG as a single project, FERC officials warned that the combined impact of traffic, light and noise created by Texas LNG, two similar export terminals, pipelines and wind farms in the area would fragment habitat for the three endangered species and put them at further risk for fatal accidents with vehicles and equipment. We have determined that cumulative impacts on ocelots and jaguarundis would be permanent and significant, FERC officials wrote about combined impacts of all the projects. LNG Debate: Enviros granted legal status to fight proposed Texas LNG project Headquartered in Houston, Texas LNG has sought permission from FERC to build a liquefied natural gas plant along the Brownsville Ship Channel since March 2016. The completion of the environmental review is an important step toward final approval of the project A final permit decision is not expected until June, but if approved, the facility would export up to 4 million metric tons of LNG per year. In a statement, Texas LNG Founder and Chief Operating Officer Langtry Meyer said the report is favorable to the company. Texas LNG was the first of three proposed liquefied natural gas projects to file federal permit applications to build a export terminal in the Rio Grande Valley waterway. The receipt of the FERC approval is one of the important steps to allow the project to begin construction and commence LNG production by 2024, Meyer said. This project will bring jobs and investment to Cameron County and deliver clean, safe, abundant Texas natural gas energy to the world." Growing Industry: Top 10 destinations for U.S. LNG exports in 2018 Texas LNG and the other liquefied natural gas export terminals face stiff opposition from a coalition of shrimpers, fishermen, environmentalists, neighbors and communities working under the banner Save RGV From LNG. Coalition members filed more than 900 comments against Texas LNG while more than four dozen of them spoke against the project during a November public hearing in Port Isabel. In January, FERC officials granted Save RGV From LNG legal status to challenge Texas LNGs application in the federal permitting process. If permitted and built, the Texas LNG and the two other proposed LNG export terminals would be an environmental disaster for the Rio Grande Valley, Sierra Club organizer Rebekah Hinojosa said in a statement. The LNG terminals would turn our pristine coastline into a network of industrial processing plants with flammable pipelines, towering storage tanks, flare stacks, and massive tanker ships. Fuel Fix: Get energy news sent directly to your inbox FERC officials estimate that if approved, the Texas LNG export terminal would receive 74 liquefied natural gas tankers a year. If all three LNG projects at the Port of Brownsville are approved, the agency estimates that they would bring a combined 511 tankers a year. With the United States poised to become a net energy exporter next year, Steve Everley, a spokesman for the industry-financed group Texans For Natural Gas, said that if approved and built, the Brownsville projects and others would ensure that the U.S. remains a global energy superpower for decades to come. FERCs conclusions on Texas LNG demonstrate that we dont have to make a choice between the environment and energy development, Everley said. Natural gas exported from Texas will help countries around the world reduce air pollution and deliver power to people who desperately need access. sergio.chapa@chron.com @SergioChapa on Twitter Within the first two minutes of lunch in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, with Houstonians Mariana Barran Goodall and Aaron Rambo at the new five-room boutique hotel she owns and he designed, its clear that the two have spent quite a bit of time together. Shes telling the story of how she got into the hotel business: Shes wanted to own a hotel since high school in her native Monterrey, she explains, and loves building happy experiences for people. It just comes easy for me sometimes the path is already there for you. Rambo interjects: Tell the story behind the name of the hotel! OK, then. I come from a very strong line of women, Goodall says. My great-grandmother decided that women in our family should not have to lose our last name when we get married so in each generation, the eldest daughter is named Amparo. Amparo Sofia, Amparo Josefina Im Amparo Mariana. The beautifully landscaped courtyard at Hotel Amparo falls quiet for a beat: Amparo means a place of shelter in Spanish. If you go The closest airports to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, are Queretaro (QRO) or Leon (BJX). Expect about an hourlong taxi ride, or the hotel can arrange car service ahead of time. Nightly rates at Hotel Amparo (Mesones 3, Centro) start at $250 per night, including breakfast and cocktail hour; hotelamparo.com. See More Collapse Is that not perfect? says Rambo. * * * Goodall, 31, met Rambo, 43, a few years ago. She had just started her Hibiscus Linens business in Houston and was shopping around her hand-embroidered wares a talent she learned in school from Spanish nuns to local design stores. (I was this little Mexican girl who had just relocated to Houston I had no connections, she says.) One of those stores was Found on West Alabama, which Rambo co-owned at the time. They got to know each other a little bit, and Rambo helped Goodall and her husband, a lawyer, design their new apartment downtown. That eventually led to an invitation to San Miguel de Allende, the expat-friendly colonial city in Mexicos central highlands thats a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Goodalls had married in the grand San Francisco church there and were looking at properties to turn into a hotel. Insider picks: Mariana Barran Goodall and Aaron Rambo share their favorite San Miguel de Allende haunts Eight months later, they bought what had once been the governors house in the thick of town. Today, Hotel Amparos centuries-old bones remain but its aesthetic is very much a fresh product of its current design-savvy occupants. I want people to feel like theyre in their cool friends house, Goodall says. Or this quirky aunt, adds Rambo, who traveled all over the world and married six different times and brought everything back and then after she died, she left it to you, and you have all this crazy (expletive) that ended up together. But theres a common thread that makes it work. Its livable, comfortable. * * * One of Goodalls goals at Hotel Amparo is for it to serve as an escape where people can have a creative outlet, if they so choose. To that end, the hotel offers regular retreats, during which guests can take workshops in drawing, floristry, jewelry making, painting and, of course, embroidery. Rambo, in his freewheeling approach to design, exudes creative spirit. Im not a snob, he says. You can buy something junky, but if you display it properly, it can be really good. Part of Rambos genius lies in his penchant for a global, high-low mix. One wall in Hotel Amparos guest lounge, for example, contains a graphic piece from San Miguel consignment store La Finca; a gilded icon oil painting that came with the house; framed letters from Mexican artist Pedro Friedeberg, purchased at a local gallery; and a print from Etsy. Elsewhere in the space: a Danish modern settee purchased at auction from Lewis & Maese; papier-mache Grecian-style urns he commissioned at the San Miguel organic market from a local artisan; an oversize green Chesterfield couch that Goodall bought online from Coco Home when she got married; a pair of leather chairs wrapped in hand-stitched otomi textile; nesting tables from the Guild Shop in Houston (they were like $10, says Rambo); and a palm-frond-patterned club chair by Dirk Jan Kinet he picked up at high-end Fabrica La Aurora a mile away. Everything rests on a patchwork of three different vintage rugs. The eclectic effect is exactly as he intended: Like youve collected things over time that you love. That home-away-from-home vibe permeates Hotel Amparos common areas, coffee shop, central courtyard and five guest rooms. Except that guests will find themselves frequently wondering, Where did they get that? Or, How did they think of putting those things together? Each room has a working stone fireplace, linens from Goodalls Hibiscus, Le Labo bath products and Mexican textiles think rolled hand towels on delicate lusterware saucers atop European pedestal sinks. Each also has singular quirks. In the largest Amparo room, that means a painted portrait of longtime Mexican president Porfirio Diaz and a half-wall slab of Italian marble, cut into a shape that mimics the courtyard fountain and the hotels roofline, dividing the soaking tub from the separate toilet and shower areas in the huge bathroom. In the smaller digs next door, a bulbous Christopher Spitzmiller lamp sits on a Biedermeier nightstand. In the only room upstairs, just off the verdant rooftop terrace, Goodall hired Argentinian muralist Lucas Rise to hand-paint the ceilings and walls in a bold industrial-recalling, repetitive pattern. Rise whos easy on the eyes and speaks English like the rest of the staff here, a Goodall preference also painted the scalloped ceiling in the on-site, open-to-the-public coffee shop, which has San Miguels only La Marzocco machine and serves Buna coffee from Mexico. Hibiscus Linens: How Mariana Barran Goodall is giving the next generation an appreciation for needlework If shes in town, you might find Goodall stitching in the adjacent sun-lit breakfast room, where a contemporary abstract painting by Beatriz Cota complements vintage Chippendale taxi-cab-yellow vinyl stools and a brass umbrella-stand-turned-vase on a patinad French iron-and-marble table from MAI. She stores a selection of finished Hibiscus napkins and works in progress in a Borge Mogensen cabinet, which today, anyway is topped with brass objets dart Rambo scored at an antiques shop in the Heights. While it has been a collaborative process over the past two years, Goodall says, Im more of a creator than a curator. Aarons a curator. The design is his vision. The great thing about Mariana and her husband is that theyre very trusting everybody stays in their lane, Rambo says, adding mischievously, Except for me. I get in everyones lane. * * * Because of the places creative ethos, Goodall sees Hotel Amparo as an ever-evolving project. As we find more people like Lucas (Rise), we want the hotel to be a living, growing thing, she says. You might come one year, then the next year it will change. Every time Aaron comes here the furniture get rearranged, she wryly adds. Both Goodall and Rambo talk rapid-fire about potential improvements, plans and upcoming programs. Hotel Amparos restaurant has a large commercial kitchen, run day to day by Peru native and former Houston chef Kenten Marin, so they offer occasional food-focused weekends during which guests can visit the market a block away with a visiting chef James Beard Award winner Justin Yu of Theodore Rex in Houston most recently then see how the chef implements Mexican ingredients into his or her cooking. The hotel has also begun booking wedding parties. Goodall hopes to expand further one day, by acquiring the property behind them. But for now, shes thrilled with how her high school dream has panned out. Even though Aaron put it together, she says, it was what was in my mind. jody.schmal@chron.com twitter.com/jodyschmal On Friday, President Donald Trump vetoed a measure to block his national emergency declaration. The measure passed the House and Senate with bipartisan support. Numerous polls suggest Trump's decision was popular among his Republican base. But his decision to use executive authority to fund a wall along the southern border is opposed by a clear majority of the public. That is reflected in seven polls taken from early January to early March. By roughly a 2-to-1 margin, Americans oppose Trump's decision to use emergency powers to build a border wall. That's a wider margin than the Senate resolution to overturn Trump's declaration of national emergency, which was passed by a 59-to-41 vote margin. The most recent poll on the issue comes from Monmouth University and was in the field between March 1-4. Monmouth found 65 percent of Americans disapproved of Trump "declaring a national emergency in order to use funding designated for the U.S. military to build a wall along the Mexican border." In January, Monmouth asked a similar question, but didn't include the part about "using designated military funds to pay for the wall." Opinion barely budged between then and now, disapproval now is 65-33, then it was 64-34. Across the months, questions with slightly different wording generated nearly identical results. Near the end of February, an NBC News-Wall Street Journal poll found 60 percent of registered voters disapproved of "Trump's decision to declare a national emergency" "to build a wall of over 200 miles along the U.S.-Mexico border." Shortly before that, NPR-PBS NewsHour-Marist found 61 percent who disapproved of "Trump declaring a national emergency to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border." Looking back to the beginning of February, CNN found 66 percent of respondents agreed Trump "should not declare a national emergency in order to build a wall along the border with Mexico." And a Washington Post-ABC News poll from early January found an identical 66 percent who opposed "Trump using emergency powers to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border." The Post-ABC poll question included language saying that "Presidents can declare a state of national emergency, giving them special powers to take action without approval from Congress." The emergency declaration is quite unpopular among Democrats and most independents, though it is favored by a majority of Republicans. In the most recent Monmouth poll, 93 percent of Democrats and 71 percent of independents disapproved of Trump declaring a national emergency while 73 percent of Republicans approved. Those opinions were largely consistent from January's Monmouth poll when 93 percent of Democrats and 66 percent of independents disapproved while 71 percent of Republicans approved. Between the disapproval resolution that passed the House last month, the Senate's similar bipartisan rebuke that passed this week and the consistently-held public opinion, opposition far outweighs support for the president's emergency resolution. - - - The Washington Post's Scott Clement contributed to this report. The planned demolition of a portion of the Beltway 8 near Texas 225 sent debris flying onto a nearby feeder road, damaging several vehicles. It all happened Wednesday on the Beltway 8 feeder road near Texas 225 when Nicholas Laye was stopped in traffic. A rear-facing dashcam Laye had installed in his Lexus caught the moment when construction crews demolished a large portion of the bridge. A Houston police officer trying to pursue a possible stolen vehicle crashed into a pedestrian and two parked pickup trucks Friday afternoon, according to HPD. The crash happened around 4 p.m. in the 700 block of W. Little York Road, authorities said. Investigators say the officer was investigating a LoJack hit, which is a device used to track stolen vehicles. As the officer was speeding west on W. Little York with his lights and sirens on, he somehow veered left and crashed into the parking lot of a convenience store near Green Meadow Lane, according to Houston Police Department Lt. Thurston Roberson BREAKING NEWS UPDATES: Get your Houston breaking news alerts delivered to you It was not immediately clear why the officer to veer off the roadway, Roberson said. In all, three people - including the pedestrian and officer - were rushed to area hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries, according to Roberson. Other officers were unable to catch up with the vehicle they were pursuing, Roberson said. RELATED: Suspects with AK-47 open fire during armored truck robbery in southwest Houston HPD's Vehicular Crimes Division is investigating, working to determine if the officer followed procedure on pursuing vehicles. Editor's note: An earlier version of this story stated that two officers were in the police vehicle during the crash. That was according to initial information gathered on scene. Lt. Roberson later clarified only one officer was involved in the accident. Jay R. Jordan covers breaking news in the Houston area. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and our subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com | Follow him on Twitter at @JayRJordan | Email him at jay.jordan@chron.com | Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message As 2017 ended, things looked good for Sylvester Turners re-election two years down the road. Halfway into his first term, the Houston mayor had locked in his landmark pension reform package by selling $1 billion in voter-approved bonds and navigated the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey without major gaffes. Since then, however, Turner has been locked in a bitter labor dispute with the Houston firefighters union that shows no sign of abating anytime soon as he gears up his reelection campaign against at least two challengers. Despite a Turner-led campaign opposing it, voters last November approved a pay parity charter amendment known as Proposition B that requires the city to give its firefighters the same pay as police of corresponding rank and experience. Turners administration has failed to negotiate an agreement with the fire union to phase in the raises over multiple years, prompting the mayor to move forward with a plan to partially plug a Prop B-widened $197 million budget deficit by laying off up to 400 firefighters. With the election in November, Turner a well-funded Democrat in a politically bright blue city remains the favorite to win a second term, Houston politics observers say. The mayors path to victory, however, may be much choppier because of the protracted dispute with the fire union that had campaigned for him in 2015. It is politically problematic for the mayor. Given the current field of candidates, I dont know that it presents a mortal threat to him, said Keir Murray, a local Democratic consultant. Nonetheless, its not helpful for him. Firefighters are popular, and whatever one thinks about the merits for and against Prop. B, the voters approved it, so theres pressure to make that deal in some shape or form. For months, Turner has warned that Prop. B would require layoffs because it did not come with a funding mechanism, shaking off claims that he simply could find the money elsewhere in the citys $4.9 billion budget. The mayors detractors say he had ample opportunity to prevent the crisis from mushrooming, including his administrations refusal to enter arbitration with the fire union in 2017. He had multiple off-ramps, said Bill King, a Houston businessman and one of Turners announced challengers. ...If hed have gone to arbitration, they would have gotten some raise. It wouldnt be nearly what were on the books for now with Proposition B. There would never have been a Proposition B. This would all be behind us. Turner maintains that he was able to negotiate multi-year raises with police and municipal employees, while the firefighters rejected a 9.5 percent raise, a point that union officials hotly dispute, contending the offer never was made officially. The mayor declined to say whether he would have handled contract negotiations or Prop B any differently, given the chance. Prior to the vote, the city repeatedly cautioned voters that Prop B was more than the city could afford and would lead to layoffs and cuts in city services, he said in an emailed statement. Nothing has changed that assessment. With the election more than seven months away, it remains an open question whether Turners dispute with firefighters will imperil his re-election chances. Incumbent Houston mayors rarely lose re-election it has happened once in the last 37 years and other campaign topics could overtake Prop B in prominence. Turner appears likely to implement raises and lay off firefighters months before the campaign reaches its apex. If this can be resolved, I think you will see that issue not be as prevalent as it is now, and well get back to, you know, infrastructure, public safety, sort of the basics of city government, Murray said. Opponents seek to capitalize If Turner wins re-election, he will do it without support from the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association, whose members campaigned for him in 2015, when he won a runoff over King by 1.9 percentage points. King and Tony Buzbee, a millionaire trial lawyer also running for mayor, hope to capitalize on the fire unions fraught relations with Turner, pledging to fully implement Prop B after negotiating a new contract with the union. Buzbee, for example, has made a public show of visiting fire stations and will host a cigar fundraiser in League City Thursday on behalf of the fire union. Even without support from the firefighters, however, Turners re-election chances are not necessary in jeopardy, said Mustafa Tameez, a Houston Democratic strategist who has previously contributed to Turner's campaign. In 2001, Tameez noted, the firefighters backed then-councilman Orlando Sanchez in his attempt to unseat Mayor Lee Brown, who was seeking a third term. Brown pulled out a narrow runoff win in the contentious and nationally watched election. Years later, the electoral math has moved in Turners favor by shifting more Democratic, Tameez said, arguing that progressive voters are likely to go to Turner despite the races nonpartisan nature. I think the mayor this time, his challenge is to avoid a runoff, Tameez said. And with two people running against him, statistically its harder, but structurally, Tony Buzbee is not just going to attack the mayor. Hes likely to attack Bill King at the same time. And if they attack each other, the voters will kind of look at the three and go, you know, I may not agree with everything with Mayor Turner, but the alternative is not viable. Still, Turner is unnecessarily jeopardizing his re-election bid, said Mark Jones, a Rice University political scientist. Aside from the loss of firefighter support, he said, Prop B will force the mayor to make difficult choices during budget season. Hell be making substantial budget cuts in an election year, which, from a re-election perspective, is not ideal, Jones said. Early in Turners tenure, he sought to negotiate a contract with the fire union, but turned down its initial request for a 20 percent pay raise over three years. In March 2017, the union requested the same deal, and the city countered with a 4 percent raise over two years. The union declared an impasse and requested arbitration, which the city rejected. Meanwhile, Turner was seeking support from the Legislature for his massive pension overhaul, which included benefit cuts that the firefighters bitterly opposed. The firefighters launched their pay parity petition drive soon after. The city took months to count the petitions, angering firefighters who got a state district judge to order officials to verify the petitions and put the referendum on last Novembers ballot. After it passed, the union called on the mayor to negotiate a phase-in of the raises over time. Turner refused, saying it would thwart the will of the voters to not implement the raises in full. It was not until January, after the union sought a court order to force the city to begin giving out the raises, that Turner said he was willing to negotiate a plan to phase in the higher pay. Turners critics say it would have been prudent, fiscally and politically, to take the earlier contract options, accusing the mayor of refusing to do so out of spite. Fire union President Marty Lancton repeatedly has called the mayor vindictive. Turner denies any animus toward firefighters, claiming they deserve pay raises that the city can afford while still balancing its books. In a statement, the mayor said his strategy to implement Prop B, which includes $31 million in back pay and up to 400 layoffs, is not about me versus the firefighters and its not about the campaign. Its about honoring the will of the voters and balancing the budget, he said. The City has been handed a bill for $100 million to give firefighters a 29% pay raise without a funding source. Promises they cant keep Complicating Turners position is a revenue cap imposed by voters in 2004, forcing the city to eliminate a substantial budget shortfall in addition to finding money to pay the firefighters raises. Even without the Prop B raises, the city must find a way to eliminate a nearly $100 million deficit. Former Mayor Annise Parker, who had her own strained negotiations with firefighters, questioned why the union did not attach a funding mechanism to the ballot measure, such as a trigger to lift Houstons revenue cap. She backed up Turners contention that the citys budget already is tight. They dont have the money to buy enough trash trucks, but apparently theres this huge pot of money we can give raises with, Parker said sarcastically. Not everyone is convinced a different mayor would be able to meet firefighters demands. In the past, weve bent over for Annise Parker with the promise that, Ill get you on the next contract. Once you get that going over and over again, yeah, you get callous to all the promises and trusting anybody, said DeLance Shaw, president of the Houston Black Fire Fighters Association. That goes for Turner or the next administration that comes in, or the guys that are running for mayor now. Theyre all making promises they cant keep. For now, the mayor said it is not too late to negotiate a Prop B phase-in and avert layoffs. Lancton, however, said the city never responded to the unions proposal last month or follow-up inquiries to phase in the raises over three years retroactive to July 1, 2018. St. John Barned-Smith contributed to this report. jasper.scherer@chron.com twitter.com/jaspscherer Carlos Vecchio, the ambassador of Venezuelas opposition government, met on Wednesday with members of Houstons Venezuelan community at Rice Universitys Baker Institute. Vecchio, the oppositions U.S. representative, spoke before a crowd of around 300 mostly Venezuelans, saying that a change in Venezuela is irreversible and its coming. However, he called on his countrymen abroad in Texas and other parts of the U.S. to avoid taking the process for granted and instead to intensify the pressure to take President Nicolas Maduro out of power as soon as possible. The representative of Venezeulan opposition leader Juan Guaido told journalists before his speech that he was invited to Houston to participate in CERAWeek, the annual international oil and gas event. His purpose was to tell the energy community that the opposition government is prepared to govern Venezuela using a so-called Plan Pais, or Plan Country, that the foes of Maduro have been developing since 2015 to reconstruct the country if the incumbent president is ousted. Vecchio said that a goal of the economic plan is to resurrect the role of oil-rich Venezuela as a leader in the global energy market. We are the country with the largest oil reserve on the planet, but we barely provide one or two percent of the worlds oil production. This has to stop, he said, blaming Maduro for destroying the Venezuelan economy. Vecchio said he met with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and of Energy, Rick Perry, who were also at CERAWeek. Asked if the U.S. is seriously considering military intervention in Venezuela, Vecchio said, I cannot speak for the U.S. government; they have been very clear. They say, look, we are evaluating all the options. Vecchio sought to assure reporters that nobody wants to see a war in Venezuela but Venezuela is already suffering conditions of a war without a war or as if coming from a natural disaster. He added that Maduro is the one who is generating the effect of the war . With competing power centers, Venezuela remains in a political impasse. Maduro has the support of the military and Guaido is fully backed by the United States, while Venezuelans are submerged in a political, social and economic crisis marked by extreme scarcities, blackouts and civil unrest. Tickets to attend Vecchios presentation were, driven by an active Venezuelan diaspora in Houston that largely supports Guaido. The population of Venezuelans in Houston has been growing steadily to more than 25,000 people since leftist Hugo Chavez was elected president in 1999, initiating a change in the country known as chavismo that has continued until today with his successor Maduro. Vecchio announced on Wednesday at Rice that Guaidos government plan next month to reopen Venezuelan consulates in Houston and around the U.S. They were closed last month by Maduros government. olivia.tallet@chron.com Twitter.com/oliviaptallet Hundreds of youths holding pencils and clipboards entered a large hall in the NRG Arena Monday afternoon during the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Sectioned off in groups alphabetically, students, ages 8 to 18 from across the state, filtered off to different parts of two rooms. They stood with their backs turned to a gated area where four of the same farm animal rested. Aside from the mooing of cows and grunting of pigs, the rooms were silent. Then, a voice blared through an intercom: You may begin judging. Now Playing: FFA and 4-H students walk between livestock pens and judge in silence for almost three hours in the Houston Livestock judging competition. The students, whose age ranges between 8-19, have their scores compared to the professional judges who looked at the steer, pigs, goats and lambs earlier. Video: Elizabeth Conley, Houston Chronicle A shuffling of sneakers and cowboy boots commenced as the youths turned to face their first challenge - a group of four cows, swine, lambs, or sheep, depending on where they stood. How would they rank each type of animal from best to worst? The rodeos livestock judging contest, hosted for more than 50 years, is one of the largest and likely one of the quietest competitions featured at the otherwise bustling event. Students are judged on their assessments of farm animals, and thus we want them to be able to concentrate, said Chris Boleman, executive director of agriculture competitions and exhibits. The hushed youth competition requires Texas students from third through 12th grades to rank eight classes of livestock from 1 to 4 on their contest sheets - one being the highest placement. The goal is to compare the animals to their own kind and place them according to their value or quality whether for breeding or for eventual sale and slaughter all within 15 minutes. Students are also asked to recall certain details about the animal theyre viewing. All participants are members of FFA, the student-led organization Future Farmers of America, which focuses on agricultural education, or 4-H, a youth development program. But a background or desire to work with livestock is not required, Boleman said. Group organizers and rodeo officials say the contest helps students practice and put their decision-making, note-taking and reasoning skills to the test. We tell the kids You livestock judge, or you judge all the time, said Jana Barrett, whose 11-year-old son Travis won third place in the junior division in the competition. She compared the contest to grocery shopping. You decide you want to buy this product or that product youre judging those products. Youre comparing them. Youre looking to see whats your best value. While these kids are doing it with animals, we tell them its a life skill that theyll always have. Travis, who landed third place with his 4-H team and has been competing for years, said the contest forces him to learn competitive skills and sportsmanship, and often requires him to recall images of animals to make the best judgment. Coming back to the competition has also allowed him to try new strategies. I learn trial and error. You do something and it doesnt work one time, you try it a different way, he said. Sometimes, he wings it, he admitted. But most of the time, I try to I find what I like. Boleman, the livestock show official, participated in similar contests when he was younger. The activity is a confidence-builder, he said. I believe where I am today is because of going to livestock judging programs as a kid and all through college, Boleman said. Students also get the chance to expand their experience in agriculture. Those who get the closest to the rankings provided by industry professionals receive prizes such as buckles, ribbons, plaques and more. The top 30 in their division receive a Calf Scramble certificate, which gives them $1,750 toward a cow that they can display at the livestock show next year, as well as a chance to wrangle a cow at next years rodeo in the Calf Scramble contest for a scholarship. Gracie Lenz, 14, of Angleton High School, placed fourth in the junior division during Mondays competition. Judging a group of four lambs was the most challenging of the contest because they were all high-quality, she said. I just had to stay focused, and I had to make sure I placed them by my first instinct and didnt second-guess myself, said Gracie, who has been competing in livestock competitions since the fourth grade. Last month, the eighth-grader won first place for individual livestock judging in the junior division at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo. Her ultimate goal is to work as a marine biologist, a departure from the land animals she typically works with. Still, she said her plan is to compete in livestock judging until she graduates high school. It helps us be a part of a competition where were all able to collaborate, Gracie said. Its something we enjoy. Were able to place these animals that we work with often. ... Its very fun to compete in. brittany.britto@chron.com twitter.com/brittanybritto [Thumbs down] Where does democracy go to die? Why, it heads for West University Place. Residents of the upper-crust inner-loop mini city are supposed to vote for their new mayor and city council in May, but theres a problem not a single race is contested. Then again, whats there to contest when City Halls biggest problem is the line for brunch at Tinys No. 5? [Thumbs up] Energy politics makes for strange bedfellows or at least seatmates. Energy Secretary Rick Perry said at CERAWeek that hed be open to meeting with socialist wunderkind U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and talking about her Green New Deal plan. Our former governor may have swallowed a bit of a coal-flavored Kool-Aid when he joined the Trump administration, but lets not forget how he supported the CREZ lines that deliver wind energy from West Texas. Take the meeting, AOC! [Thumbs up] Ted Cruz also joined the bipartisanship train this week. The Texas senator tweeted his agreement with U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren that Facebook has too much power. The political unity was sparked when the social media company removed the Massachusetts senators posts calling for the mega-sized tech company to be broken up into smaller competitors. Thoughts? Please share them. Our Houston Chronicle Opinion Facebook page is the perfect place. [thumbs down] Horns down to news that the University of Texas was involved in a nationwide scandal of celebrities, CEOs and other ultra-rich trying to bribe their kids way into elite schools and also the University of Southern California. Maybe its time to admit that not everyone is cut out for college. Did these millionaires ever consider a career in welding for their kids? [thumbs down] Talk about your fish tales. An angler in Wood County, east of Dallas, is facing fraud charges for altering the size of his bass haul during a tournament at the McDonald Big Bass Splash on Lake Fork, according to Texas Parks & Wildlife. Apparently fraud at a freshwater fishing tournament is a third-degree felony in Texas, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Lying is wrong, but somebody let this aquatic crook off the hook. There are bigger fish to fry. [thumbs down] Still, even fishing fraud looks like a big catch next to the haul Fort Bend Constable Office, Precinct 3, bragged about on Twitter: a grinder and 2 glass pipes confiscated during a traffic stop. This minnow-sized drug bust should have Texans wondering: What are constables offices for and why do we still have them? As an existing print subscriber it is easy to get FREE access to all our online content. When you click get started below it will walk you through creating an online account to attach your print subscription number to. After your account is created it will ask you to either add a subscription for online access or click on the print subscriber button. Click the print subscriber button header and it will open a dropdown, now click on get started. The page will reload and you will be prompted to enter an account number and a zip code. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO USE THE NUMBER OFF OF THE MOST RECENT ISSUE OR ANYTHING AFTER JANUARY 28, 2019 TO GAIN ACCESS! OLD ACCOUNT NUMBERS WILL NOT WORK 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. When visitors to the gigantic Palace Museum complex in Beijing feel a need to sit down for a cup of tea or find a bathroom without a long line, they soon will be able to turn to their smartphones for the information they need. This modern-day solution at the venerable compound comes thanks to an agreement signed on Friday by the museum and Huawei Co, the telecommunication giant, to build a "smart network" using 5G technology, the fifth generation of mobile network communications. Under the agreement, 5G Wi-Fi signals will cover the 720,000-square-meter compound, China's imperial palace from 1420 to 1911 and also known as the Forbidden City, and the branch museum of the institution under construction in northwestern Beijing. But visitor comfort is not the only benefit of a 5G smart network. Huawei will also provide the museum with cutting-edge technologies for the internet of things-devices or objects linked in a network-cloud computing and artificial intelligence to facilitate such functions as management, security and preservation of cultural relics. "It's essential to always stay close to the latest technology to better serve the public," said Shan Jixiang, director of the Palace Museum. Shan said there is still much room for improvement in the handling of a huge number of cultural relics, such as when the priceless painting Along the River During the Qingming Festival is exhibited again next year. The Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127) landscape painting is considered the best-known ancient Chinese work of art. When it was last exhibited in 2015, visitors stood in long lines until 3 am to get a glimpse. The museum ended up preparing instant noodles to serve the hungry visitors. "I don't want that scenario to recur," Shan said. "Our operation can be done in a more scientific way." The new system will make use of the more than 3,000 closed-circuit television cameras that are installed all over the Palace Museum. Shan said facial-recognition technology will determine which areas are most popular with frequent visitors in order to analyze their preferences. "We can later, accordingly, provide useful information on our exhibitions," he said. The CCTV cameras also are used to safeguard the museum's precious relics. More than 1.86 million of them are housed at the museum, which logged 17.5 million visits from the public in 2018, topping all museums worldwide. "How can we make sure no single visitor who might have evil ideas threatens these treasures?" Shan said. "After adopting the internet of things, we can instantly detect any motion involving the artifacts to prevent such threats." Such a networked system also will be used to facilitate management of inventory and closely supervise transportation and exhibition of cultural relics. New technologies can assist the museum staff in other ways, too, said Wang Tao, a member of Huawei's board of directors. The company will use algorithms to more efficiently draft tailored plans for restoring cultural relics after information on similar pieces and files on each collection are included in a database. "We can thus combine old craftsmen's experience and artificial intelligence," Wang said. The 5G network also will be used to improve remote consultation through webcams, which will facilitate conversations with overseas scholars to jointly find the best answers for restoration and preservation issues, he said. You are here: China China will launch a nationwide campaign to promote online learning, according to a circular released by the Ministry of Education. A total of 10 million teachers and students will be encouraged to register with online learning platforms this year, the circular said. The country will select 40 excellent online learning platforms and 200 schools and universities for nationwide promotion and demonstration. The ministry said it would continue to work with China Telecom and China Mobile to train 2,000 headmasters and 4,000 teachers of primary and secondary schools to better use online learning platforms. Hundreds Removed from Gang Injunction Lists San Diego, California - The names of 332 people have been removed from civil gang injunction lists affecting neighborhoods across San Diego County following a careful review by the District Attorneys Office, which worked to confirm individuals lack of recent criminal and gang activity. The civil injunctions were filed several years ago in various cities across the county, often in response to communities seeing a spike in gang-related violence. The injunctionswhich have had their critics were court orders restricting the most active and dangerous gang members from congregating with other known gang members, fighting, carrying weapons, and intimidation. However, no gang injunctions have been filed by the DA in the past eight years and the oldest existing injunction dates back to 1997. District Attorney Summer Stephan initiated the review of 799 individuals, recognizing the dated nature of most of the injunctions and the potential problems that being on the list pose to individuals who are no longer affiliated with a gang or engaging in criminal activity. When a civil gang injunction is issued against an individual, it remains in effect for a lifetime unless that person applies for removal and meets certain criteria. However, most people dont know relief maybe available to them or how to go about requesting their name be removed. People who are genuinely taking steps to be a lawful, contributing member of our community shouldnt be punished by a civil court order that might be stopping them from getting a job, connecting with their relatives or moving on with their lives, DA Stephan said. We worked closely with our law enforcement partners to identify people who might qualify for removal while at the same time making sure were continuing to protect the public from those who still engage in gang-related crimes and activities. To qualify for removal from the list, a person: cannot have a conviction for a violent felony for the past 10 years must have remained out of custody and had no criminal convictions for the past five years (excluding minor traffic violations) have had no activity that demonstrates continued loyalty to, or membership in a criminal street gang for the past five years In total, 42 percent of the individuals listed on 20 civil gang injunction lists affecting 12 gangs have been removed. The District Attorney sent letters in late February informing people their name had been purged from the lists, saying the action is an effort to pursue justice that fairly reflects your current status as one moving away from the gang life. This should assist you in removing any negative consequences that come from being on an injunction list. It also notes that if the individual reengages in gang activity they could be added back on the injunction. Every law enforcement agency in the county wants individuals to disassociate themselves from the gangs and the activity that landed them on the civil injunctions, said Escondido Police Chief Craig Carter. Police departments across the county are joining the DA in being proactive in removing individuals from these injunctions and we hope other gang members see this as a motivation to end their gang affiliation and become a productive member of their community. We want nothing more than to keep our youth from joining gangs in the first place. Pastor Jesus Sandoval, Executive Director of San Diegos Commission on Gang Prevention and Intervention, praised the collaboration that led to the removal of individuals from the injunctions. The Commissioners in our Sub-Committee for gang documentation laid the groundwork for this effort and did an outstanding job working with the DA and Chief of Police in advocating for this audit, Sandoval said. The removal of these names is in line with the Commission's vision is to develop a more strategic, coordinated, and collaborative effort between the City and law enforcement agencies to curtail gang involvement and its negative impact in the City of San Diego. The DA also says 66 individuals were removed from injunctions not for lack of gang or criminal activity but because the injunction no longer applied because they were either sentenced to life in prison, deceased or appear to have left the jurisdiction or gang life entirely. The District Attorneys Office will conduct follow up audits once a year and continue to mail notices to the individuals removed from injunction enforcement. People wanting to find out if theyve been removed you from an injunction can email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Individuals who believe they qualify and would like to petition for removal can fill out this form on the DAs website and submit it for review. In 2017, a former gang member from Oceanside who was listed on a gang injunction 13 years earlier had a petition to have his name removed from the list granted. Over the years, 20 individuals have petitioned for removal and 15 petitions have been granted. A review of individuals who remain on the lists shows 97 with arrests or convictions from September 2017 to September 2018. Four individuals on the lists have active warrants for murder and during the time the injunctions have been in place, 32 defendants who are on the lists have been sentenced to prison for 15 or more years. Two individuals on the list have been charged with murder and are awaiting trial. Department of the Navy Releases Fiscal Year 2020 Budget Washington, DC - The Department of the Navy (DON) submitted its Fiscal Year 2020 (FY20) budget request to Congress today, March 12. The $205.6 billion (Base and Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO)) request is part of the $718 billion (Base and OCO) defense budget, which President Donald Trump submitted to Congress March 11. Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Budget, Rear Adm. Randy Crites, briefed media during a Department of Defense press conference on the Navy and Marine Corps portion of the budget. This years budget submission reflects the best possible balance of available resources to build a bigger, better and more ready Navy and Marine Corps team to strengthen the Navy the nation needs, Crites said. The FY2020 funding invests in our people and demonstrates our commitment to providing the capacity and capabilities needed to fight and win in this new era of great power competition. The FY20 budget represents an increase of 4.8 percent over the FY19 enacted budget (Base and OCO). The increased funding will help to restore the Navys competitive advantage by building on previous investments in readiness and lethality in support of strengthening the Navy and Marine Corps team's contribution to the Joint Force. This years budget takes a balanced approach to force structure growth by making targeted investments in readiness and capabilities. The FY20 budget not only supports more ships, submarines, aircraft, people and additional special operations forces but also provides the right mix of small and large surface combatants, submarines, aircraft and unmanned platforms needed to meet the requirements of combatant commanders. The budget provides for a deployable battle force of 301 ships in FY20. This supports 11 aircraft carriers and 10 big deck amphibious ships that serve as the foundation upon which the Navys carrier and amphibious ready groups are based. This years budget request funds 12 new-construction battle force ships in FY20, including one aircraft carrier (CVN), three Nuclear Attack Submarines (SSNs), three guided-missile destroyers (DDGs), one future guided-missile frigate (FFG(X)), two Fleet Replenishment Oilers (T-AOs) and two Towing, Salvage and Rescue ships (T-ATSs), as well as two Large Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs); and, 55 battle force ships/10 Large USVs across the Future Years Defense Program (FYDP). A talented, driven and well-trained military and civilian workforce is essential for warfighting success, and the Navys most critical asset is its dedicated personnel. This years budget supports an increase in end strength by 5,100 in FY20, and allows for a 3.1 percent pay raise to better support quality of life for Sailors, Marines and their families, in alignment with the Employment Cost Index. The re-emergence of great power competition demands that the Navy invests in superior, innovative and leap-ahead technologies to increase lethality. The Navy cannot expect success fighting tomorrows conflicts with yesterdays weapons. To maintain a competitive advantage, this years budget targets the development of long-range hypersonic strike, unmanned aircraft and vessels, and additional capabilities aligned with the Future Force. In this years budget, Research & Development increases 9.5 percent over FY19, supporting innovative capabilities in shipbuilding, Columbia-class development, aviation (F-35), weapons, hypersonics, NextGen Jammer, unmanned systems, Navy laser family of systems, digital warfare, applied artificial intelligence and big-data analytics. These technological advancements are crucial to maintaining the Navys competitive advantage. Networked forces that protect, collect and share information enable increased readiness and lethality. The budget request prioritizes the development of resilient, survivable, federated networks and information ecosystems from the tactical level up to strategic planning. A healthy industrial base is a key enabler of Navy readiness, and this years budget submission supports industry by providing the consistency and predictability needed to retain the highly skilled workers who fulfill shipbuilding orders efficiently and affordably. Continuing to minimize the backlog of deferred readiness, procurement and modernization is also a priority for this years budget, which requests funding for increased training and flight hours. In addition to supporting the Navys critical personnel, platforms and programs, the FY20 budget demonstrates the Department of the Navys (DON) commitment to reforming business processes and driving efficiencies to increase speed, improve value and support the warfighter. The budget provides funding in support of adopting agile business models and technologies, removing layers of overhead, flattening organizations, and applying data-driven decision making helps the Fleet build readiness. Its -17C and Im blasting across a frozen patch of the Baltic Sea on a snowmobile just outside the Swedish city of Lulea. There are reindeer scampering around 300 yards to my left on what was shoreline just three months ago. Far in the distance on my right, snow covered trees stand tall upon a frozen ridge. 100 miles south of the Arctic Circle, scenes like this arent uncommon. Im here to test drive the Volvo V60 Cross Country. Its one of two of the latest iterations of the Swedish manufacturers family estate car. The Cross Country is the more rugged offering. High ground clearance, four-wheel drive and equipped with off-road driving settings. The other is the V60 R-Design: a sporty, nimbler offering with lower suspension and a dynamic driving experience whatever that means. But its not all about the car. Im keen to try out some local activities. First stop: snowmobiling. I spend the first 15 minutes riding wearing protective goggles. But theres a problem theyve been steaming up for the whole journey so far and I think: Whats the worst that could happen? I find out pretty quickly. In seconds, freezing cold snow is kicking up into my face from the other riders and ice is beginning to build up on my eye lashes. Suddenly the steamy goggles dont seem so bad. Testing the Volvo V60 Cross Country... on ice Show all 7 1 /7 Testing the Volvo V60 Cross Country... on ice Testing the Volvo V60 Cross Country... on ice Looking composed The Volvo V60 Cross Country sits on a frozen section of the Baltic Sea in sub-zero temperatures Stuart Price Testing the Volvo V60 Cross Country... on ice Sliding on the ice Me with the V60 Cross Country with the EBS switched off on the Lulea ice track Stuart Price Testing the Volvo V60 Cross Country... on ice Lights out Waiting to set off in the V60 Cross Country on the Lulea ice track Stuart Price Testing the Volvo V60 Cross Country... on ice Driver's view The V60 Cross Country has a touch screen centre console and head up display for the driver Stuart Price Testing the Volvo V60 Cross Country... on ice Practical solution It comes fully equipped with a large 529 litre boot... Stuart Price Testing the Volvo V60 Cross Country... on ice Expandable storage Which expands to 1,441 litres with the seats down Stuart Price Testing the Volvo V60 Cross Country... on ice Pre-frostbite Snowmobiling, with goggles firmly on, at the beginning of the journey Stuart Price Oh f***, our guide Andreas says to me looking at my face. While Im wondering whether to be offended or terrified he gently puts his hand up to my cheek. It was hard, ice cold and totally white. He turns to the expedition organiser and whispers: Frostbite. Thankfully, the minor frostbite I have is pretty easy to deal with, Andreas later tells me. Keep the area covered and slowly warm it up and youll be fine. Out on the ice though, this is information I am not privy to. The rest of the ride back to the tiny island of Grasjaloren is a bit of a daze. My mind is totally preoccupied with how I would look without a cheek. A common theme of this car, from conversations with the various Volvo reps on this trip, has been how confident you feel when driving it. Even in severe conditions like the ones we are subject to here, in Swedens most northeasterly city, you feel in control behind the wheel. Thats what I need, I think to myself. I feel out-of-control right now and my face is still hard and cold. Recommended Volvo XC40 T3 review Im going for a drive, I say to the group as they make their way back to the hotel. Cranking up the heat to a balmy 24C and selecting a pre-programmed scenic route on the in-built satnav, Im on my way. The Cross Country handles itself well as I make my way out of town. The steering is light and responsive and the automatic gearbox shifts quickly as I nip through an amber traffic light. Theres a north facing map on the central console showing me my route for the next mile or so and a second view, a digital rendition of the road ahead, directly in front of me. The navigation information being split across two destinations isnt something Im used to, however, and does leave me a little undecided on where to look as I approach the junction I need on the 94 road. Like a nervous tick I keep reaching up and touching my recently-frozen-face. I need a distraction. A sensational set of Bowers & Wilkins speakers (a 2,500 optional extra) sit proudly atop the dashboard. The Cross Country comes with built in Spotify, which youll need an internet connection to use. Approaching a junction I dont really have time to browse an online library. Swedish folk it is. Glancing down at the navigation system on the centre console I notice that my route will take me on a ferry crossing the Lulealven River to an area called Avan. What the satnav hasnt accounted for here is that, in the sub-zero temperatures outside, there are no ferries. Instead, I must drive across the surface of the river. I pull over before making my way down the bank and out onto the river and activate the comfort mode to turn on the cars in-built electronic stability control. There is a winding track carved out across the river and in a couple of minutes Im driving up the other side. We really are in what feels like the middle of nowhere now. Avan is a tiny collection of houses. A child is playing at the side of the road far up ahead with his mother. I ease on the brakes to slow down my approach, just in case. This car comes with large animal detection it claims to be able to spot an elk standing in the road up ahead. The kid looks about three years old ... Id rather not find out whether he constitutes a large animal or not. Upon touching it, my face now feels a little like a chicken breast which is about half way defrosted in the microwave. The soft, loose flesh on top of the hard, frozen part underneath. Volvo V60 Cross Country skids around the Lulea ice track It occurs to me that for large sections of this drive along ice covered roads, much of which have been in complete darkness lit only by my LED headlamps, I have barely been concentrating. In most cars, military levels of concentration would be required for conditions like this. In the Cross Country though, it has felt like a remarkably normal drive. There hasnt been a moment where I have felt out of control. It feels safe driving at the speed limit up to 70kph (43mph) on even the windiest of windy roads. Its worth noting the model Im driving has special tyres with spikes them in for extra grip. Parked at the foot of a strangers driveway (I backed in easily with the help of the 360-degree rear-view camera) a few miles past Avan, I consider this. There hasnt been a moment over the past two days, which has involved around four hours of road driving, where Ive felt unsafe in the Cross Country. Volvo have long prided themselves on their safety standard: that is well documented. The latest adaptation of the mid-range doesnt disappoint if its safety youre after. A new feature on this model uploads road condition information to the cloud while youre driving, allowing other Volvos to download warnings about the road ahead. Its another little nudge towards vehicle autonomy but a tool that can really be praised for making a driver feel safe and secure. My face is getting softer. Its time to head back to Lulea. I remain in something of a daze for most of the journey back to the city, and flicking onto autopilot (not actual autopilot this car doesnt have that, although lane assistance is a feature, as is the not-so-sexily-titled BLIS with Cross Traffic Alert and Rear Collision Mitigation, if you want to spend an additional 500) I hear a ping. Glancing at the head-up display nestled on the windscreen, a warning is telling me that a speed camera is in 300m. Im too comfortable by now, cruising at 10kph above the speed limit. Before I know it Im back at the hotel and hand the keys over to the smiley Volvo representative waiting for me to return. Most importantly, I have now totally defrosted and am just left with something of a shiner below my right eye. Theres a lot to like about the Cross Country. The 60mm of added road clearance in comparison to the standard V60 model makes the difference off-road, as does the four-wheel drive system. Its fast and comfortable at the same time and has an elegant interior that doesnt shout at you. Matte metal finishes and textured leather feel welcoming and sophisticated. The clean look and feel of the interior is mirrored on the outside too. For a big car it looks sleek and absolutely stacks up aesthetically alongside its German counterparts. The on-board computer isnt the most friendly user-interface Ive come across. Its probably worth spending the extra 300 so you can hook up your phone and use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto instead. As always Volvo seem to have nailed the safety aspect something that was never in doubt. In a family car like this one, presumably used by many for ferrying kids about, the importance of safety really cant be underestimated. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Starting at 38,270 its the most expensive base model in the V60 range. Six grand more than the cheapest Volvo Momentum is a big leap and thats before you chuck on the optional extras. You can easily make this car more than 40,000. But me, now with a soft and puffy face, I have the Cross Country to thank. It took me on a much-needed uneventful and calming tour through the Swedish countryside. At a time when I was, within my own mind at least, being incredibly over-dramatic, the comfortable, smooth and predictable nature of this car was the perfect antidote. Whether youre Irish or not, theres a temptation to take part in celebrating St Patricks Day a beloved tradition worldwide that sees thousands of people coming together to drink, dress in green, eat traditional food from Ireland and generally celebrate Irish heritage. What is St Patricks Day, and where does it come from? St Patricks Day, or the Feast of St Patrick, is a celebration in honour of the patron saint of Ireland, St Patrick. The day of celebration, which marks the day of St Patricks death, was originally a religious holiday meant to celebrate the arrival of Christianity in Ireland, and made official by the Catholic Church in the early 17th century. Observed by the Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and the Lutheran Church, the day was typically observed with services, feasts and alcohol. St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures Show all 20 1 /20 St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures An actor playing the part of Saint Patrick leads the annual Saint Patrick's Day parade in Dublin, Ireland. Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland is celebrated around the world on St. Patrick's Day. According to legend Saint Patrick used the three-leaved shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to Irish pagans in the 5th-century after becoming a Christian missionary. Getty St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures Festival participants take part in the annual Saint Patrick's Day parade on March in Dublin, Ireland. Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland is celebrated around the world on St. Patrick's Day. According to legend Saint Patrick used the three-leaved shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to Irish pagans in the 5th-century after becoming a Christian missionary Getty St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures Festival participants take part in the annual Saint Patrick's Day parade on March in Dublin, Ireland. Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland is celebrated around the world on St. Patrick's Day. According to legend Saint Patrick used the three-leaved shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to Irish pagans in the 5th-century after becoming a Christian missionary Getty St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures Participants walk miniature ponies during the St. Patrick's Day parade in Galway, Ireland Reuters St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures People perform in the St Patrick's Day parade in central London Reuters St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures People perform in the St Patrick's Day parade in central London Reuters St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures A reveller poses in Dublin Getty St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures The Duchess of Cambridge attends the St Patrick's Day parade at Cavalry Barracks in Hounslow, to present shamrock to officers and guardsmen of 1st Battalion the Irish Guards. PA St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures People perform in the St Patrick's Day parade in central London REUTERS St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures A cadet from the Benedictine Military school gets caught by two "kissing bandits" as he marches in the St. Patrick's Day parade in Savannah, Ga. AP St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures Grand Marshal Jerry Counihan walks with his family in the St. Patrick's Day parade in Savannah, Ga. AP St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures People watch the St Patrick's Day parade in central London Reuters St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures Crowds watching the Dublin's St Patrick's Day Parade PA St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures A person attends the dyeing of the Chicago River green for St. Patrick's Day celebration in Chicago, Illinois USA. St. Patrick's Day is marked annually on 17 March to commemorate Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. EPA St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures The Chicago River is dyed green for St. Patrick's Day celebration in Chicago, Illinois USA, St. Patrick's Day is marked annually on 17 March to commemorate Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. EPA St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures Participants during the Dublin's St Patrick's Day Parade PA St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures Participants during the Dublin's St Patrick's Day Parade PA St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures Participants during the Dublin's St Patrick's Day Parade PA St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures People watch the St Patrick's Day parade in central London Reuters St Patrick's Day 2019 In pictures Members of the Artane Band take part in the annual Saint Patrick's Day parade in Dublin, Ireland. Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland is celebrated around the world on St. Patrick's Day. According to legend Saint Patrick used the three-leaved shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to Irish pagans in the 5th-century after becoming a Christian missionary. Getty Consumption has always been an integral part of St Patricks Day, as historically the day was celebrated with a day-long lift of the Lenten restrictions on eating and drinking alcohol which has contributed to the present-day drinking. Interestingly, St Patrick wasnt actually Irish. He is believed to have been born in either Scotland or Wales and sold into slavery in Ireland as a child. In 1903, St Patricks Day became an official public holiday in Ireland. This year, and every year, it is celebrated on 17 March. St Patricks Day 2021 falls on a Wednesday. What are shamrocks and leprechauns and why are they depicted in the celebrations? Although St Patricks Day has mostly evolved into a cultural celebration of Irish heritage, certain traditions such as wearing green and shamrocks have prevailed. We wear green to celebrate because green is the colour associated with Catholics in Ireland. However, green wasnt associated with the holiday until the 19th century. Prior to that, blue was often worn to celebrate. Shamrocks clover-like plants with three leaves were, according to legend, used by St Patrick to explain the Holy Trinity to the pagan Irish. Leprechauns, a mythical type of fairy in Irish folklore, also make an appearance during St Patricks Day celebrations. Often depicted as little men, leprechauns are usually pictured with a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. They are mischievous fairies known for playing jokes on people. But legend has it, if you catch one he will give you three wishes. Is it a bank holiday in the UK, or a federal holiday in the US? Sorry, youll have to let your hair down in your own time. Its not a bank holiday in the UK, and its not a federal holiday in the US. It is, however, a national holiday in Ireland. What do people do on St Patricks Day and how do they celebrate? The holiday has evolved into a mostly cultural celebration of Irish heritage marked with a day of drinking, green clothing and Irish-themed parades though many of those won't be able to go ahead as planned due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. In addition to green clothing, beer, occasionally dyed green, and Irish whiskey are typically consumed to celebrate St Paddys Day. Green around the gill: people celebrate St Patricks Day with dyed beer (iStock) In the United States, Irish American people usually indulge in corned beef and cabbage. But in Ireland and elsewhere in celebration of the holiday, typical Irish foods such as steak and Guinness pie or Irish soda bread are eaten. How is St Patricks Day celebrated around the globe? Recommended 10 best proper pubs in Dublin Ireland obviously hosts the longest St Patricks Day celebrations, with a week of festivities and the annual parade in Dublin drawing more than one million people. In Great Britain, the day is celebrated with the third-largest parade in the world, after Dublin and New York. The parade takes place in Birmingham but celebrations occur all over the country. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events In New York City, the official St Patricks Day Parade, founded in 1762, typically attracts two million people. While not a legal holiday, the day is widely recognised and celebrated all over the country. Green top: the Empire State Building lit up for St Patricks Day (G Other large St Patricks Day parades are held annually in Asia, the Caribbean and Canada. To mark the day, notable landmarks are lit up in green or dyed green. Water sport: the Chicago river is dyed green in honour of the day Last year, the Sydney Opera House, the Space Needle in Seattle, the London Eye, the Empire State Building, the Chicago river and hundreds of other landmarks were lit green in honour of the patron saint. Happy St Patricks Day! Emily Ratajkowski has defended her friend against body-shaming trolls after their bodies were compared on Instagram. Earlier this week, Ratajkowski shared a photograph on Instagram of her and a friend lying on a beach in swimwear. The picture was shared to promote the models swimwear line, Inamorata, a brand which embraces the full spectrum of the female form, as is stated on the companys website. Several Instagram users left unkind comments underneath the post, some of whom surmised that Ratajkowski had shared the photograph to make her body look better than her friends. You specifically posted a photo, so that it was clear that your body is better than the body of your friend??? one person commented. Body positivity activists protest outside London Fashion Week Show all 9 1 /9 Body positivity activists protest outside London Fashion Week Body positivity activists protest outside London Fashion Week Getty Images Body positivity activists protest outside London Fashion Week Getty Images Body positivity activists protest outside London Fashion Week Getty Images Body positivity activists protest outside London Fashion Week Getty Images Body positivity activists protest outside London Fashion Week Getty Images Body positivity activists protest outside London Fashion Week Getty Images Body positivity activists protest outside London Fashion Week Getty Images Body positivity activists protest outside London Fashion Week Getty Images Body positivity activists protest outside London Fashion Week Getty Images She surely would have known people would write these disgusting comments, another remarked. Why would she subject her friend to this humiliation and online bullying by posting this? Ratajkowski promptly jumped to her friends defence, leaving a response to a comment underneath the Instagram picture. I love my friends body and both her and I think she looks great here! And Im proud shes rocking my suits, the We Are Your Friends actor wrote. All these haters are crazy. Just because youre used to seeing one body type on the Internet doesnt mean that thats the only kind that should be considered beautiful. A number of Ratajkowskis Instagram followers echoed her sentiments in the comments underneath the post. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Its not about liking one over the other. Its about them both liking themselves, one remarked. Funny thing that the people trying to say that shes body-shaming her friend are the ones who ARE ACTUALLY body-shaming, someone else wrote. Ratajkowski also posted a response to the body-shaming incident on Twitter, sharing the photo on the social media platform alongside the Ariana Grande-inspired caption: Thank u, next. There can be no more terrible position to be in as a senior business executive. Your new aircraft has just crashed, for the second time in five months, killing all 157 people on board. As with the first accident, that saw 189 perish, the cause is not immediately apparent. So what do you do? If ever there was a case in corporate life where less really is more this is it. This was the situation confronting Boeing chair, Dennis Muilenburg, following the downing of its 737 Max-8 model on an Ethiopian Airlines flight from Addis Ababa to Nairobi last Sunday. Operators around the world said they were grounding the airplane, only recently unveiled by a proud Boeing. On Wednesday, Muilenburg issued a statement: We are supporting this proactive step out of an abundance of caution. Safety is a core value at Boeing for as long as we have been building airplanes; and it always will be. There is no greater priority for our company and our industry. We are doing everything we can to understand the cause of the accidents in partnership with the investigators, deploy safety enhancements and help ensure this does not happen again. In February 1969 I was in County Fermanagh reporting what was billed as a crossroads election, in which Northern Ireland would choose between limited reform and a one-party Protestant and unionist state. I remember the campaign well because it was the subject of an article I was producing for a university magazine, the first I ever wrote for any publication. The election was considered particularly important because the Northern Irish prime minister, Terence ONeill, was seeking endorsement of his policy of moving towards granting civil and political rights to the Catholic minority a policy over which his own unionist party was split. I had a sense early on that it was already too late for compromise because institutionalised anti-Catholic discrimination had cut too deep for change to come without violence. A Newsnight interview with a British far-right leader about the New Zealand mosque attack has been defended by the BBC after it was accused of providing a platform to racist hate. Anti-racism campaigners criticised the corporation's flagship news programme for inviting the leader of Generation Identitys UK branch to discuss the murders of 49 people in Christchurch. Nick Lowles, chief executive of anti-racism group Hope Not Hate described the interview as despicable and called on the BBC to apologise for the offence many people felt. The organisation, which monitors extremism, added: The fact that Newsnight invited Generation Identity on to discuss the Christchurch terrorist attack, which was inspired in part by GI propaganda, shows the BBC has learned nothing from its elevation of Anjem Choudary before the 7/7 attacks. The programme repeatedly gave airtime to the radical Islamist cleric who was jailed for more than five years in 2016 for supporting Isis. New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Show all 11 1 /11 New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Zakaria Bhuiyan People gather hoping to find out information about Zakaria Bhuiyan who is still missing after the mosques shootings in Christchurch. David Moir/AFP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Mucad Ibrahim Three-year-old Mucad Ibrahim, the youngest known victim of the mass shooting at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, on 15 March 2019. Abdi Ibrahim via AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Nadeem Rasheed Nadeem Rasheed, brother of Pakistani Naeem Rashid who died alongside his son Talha Naeem, 21, who were killed in shooting at a Mosque in Christchurch, at their home town in Abbottabad, EPA New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Omar Nabi Omar Nabi speaks to the media about losing his father Haji Daoud Nabi, 71, in the mosque attack REUTERS New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Ash Mohammed Ash Mohammed, right, talks to a police officer about his father and two brothers who are missing near the Masjid Al Noor mosque AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Akhtar Khokhur Akhtar Khokhur, 58, shows a picture of her missing husband Mehaboobbhai Khokhar, 65. AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Wasseim Alsati A note is seen on a window of a door at the family home of Wasseim Alsati in Christchurch on 17 March 2019. AFP/Getty Images New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Haroon Mahmood Relatives offer condolences to nephew (centre) of Haroon Mahmood, a Pakistani citizen who was killed in Christchurch mosque shootings. AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Farid Ahmed Farid Ahmed (pictured) survived the Al Noor mosque shootings but his wife Husne was killed. AFP/Getty Images New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Syed Areeb Ahmed A relative shows a picture of Syed Areeb Ahmed, a Pakistani citizen who was killed the Christchurch mosque shooting. AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Naeem Rashid A relative looks at a picture on a mobile phone of Pakistani nationals Naeem Rashid and his son Talha Naeem (right) who died in the Christchurch shootings. AFP/Getty Images Tanja Bueltmann, an academic specialising in migration, said the decision to interview Generation Identity UK leader Benjamin Jones was seriously misjudged and irresponsible. She tweeted: Why on earth would you give an essentially unchallenged platform to Generation Identity, letting their UK leader spread their ideas and hate? Tom Kibasi, director of the Institute for Public Policy Research think thank, said he planned to file a formal complaint. He added: Would you have given a platform to a leading homophobe on the night of Orlando? A top radical Islamist on the night of the Paris attacks? A prominent anti-Semite on the night of Pittsburgh? But a spokesperson for Newsnight said: It is important we examine and challenge ideologies that drive hate crimes in a wider context, whether they have been distorted, and the connection they may have with any European or UK groups. Richard Watson, the BBC journalist who spoke to Mr Jones, introduced the interview by saying Generation Identity "uses similar arguments" to those found in a self-styled manifesto published by Christchurch shooting suspect Brenton Tarrant. Mr Tarrant's core justification for the attack was the white genocide conspiracy theory, which claims that white people are being replaced by non-whites in Western nations. Generation Identity, a pan-European white nationalist movement, has propagated similar scare stories using tactics such as protests, publicity stunts and social media campaigns. Last year the group was permanently banned from Facebook for breaching the social media site's policies on extremist content. It had been billed as a mass protest, taking in the length of England and descending on Westminster, but the so-called Brexit betrayal march is only to be done in its entirety by 50 people and their figurehead, Nigel Farage, wont be there for most of it. The March To Leave, which set off from Sunderland on Saturday, will see walkers hike the 280 miles to central London in just 14 days. If politicians think they can walk all over us, said Mr Farage, then we're going to march back and tell them they can't. But the former Ukip leader himself will not actually be doing much marching himself. After weeks of promoting the mass act of physical endurance, he revealed on Saturday that he would only do some of the route, Sky News reported. Instead, he will meet up with the marchers in London on 29 March when a leave-means-leave rally is due to be held in Parliament Square. Papers react to the Brexit vote Show all 10 1 /10 Papers react to the Brexit vote Papers react to the Brexit vote The Guardian The Guardian highlights just how soon the Prime Minister's defeat has come Britain's scheduled date of departure Papers react to the Brexit vote Daily Mail The Daily Mail takes aim at MPs who political editor Jason Groves claims have "plunged Britain into chaos" by rejecting the Prime Minister's deal Papers react to the Brexit vote The Independent Daily Edition The Independent calls for a second referendum as a way forward Papers react to the Brexit vote Daily Express The Daily Express leads with exasperation, with political editor Macer Hall writing that "Brexit was hanging in the balance last night" Papers react to the Brexit vote The Sun The Sun take the Prime Minister's "croaky" voice into account as it reports on last night's "Brexit shambles" Papers react to the Brexit vote Financial Times The Financial Times claims that the Prime Minister's authority is "in shreds" and reports on the fall in the pound in the wake of the vote Papers react to the Brexit vote The Daily Telegraph The Daily Telegraph calls the Prime Minister's defeat "humiliating" and claims that a delay to Brexit is likely Papers react to the Brexit vote The i The i claims that parliament is "out of control" Papers react to the Brexit vote The Times The Times claims that Britain is in crisis and that the Prime Minister "may face resignation calls" Papers react to the Brexit vote Daily Mirror The Daily Mirror says that the Prime Minister "surrenders" in reference to the likelihood of Brexit being delayed after the vote The walks first leg from Sunderland to Hartlepool got off to a chaotic start when it was met by anti-Brexit protesters. Rows broke out as the roughly 100 walkers clashed with counter-demonstrators who turned up carrying pro-EU banners and Peoples Vote flags. One person set off blue and yellow flares. Recommended Top Tory quits local party ahead of push to deselect him over Brexit It is understood two advertising vans, made by the grassroots anti-Brexit campaign Led By Donkeys, will also follow the march for its entire journey. But the walkers have said they will not be deterred by either the counter-protestors or Mr Farages absence. Coordinator Harry Todd, a political consultant who works with the Leave Means Leave campaign, said: We're going to give a very visual demonstration of what the feeling is in this country still is, and that is to leave. He said that some 350 people had signed up to walk sections of the route with 50 of those taking on the full journey. And although some logistically difficult sections would be covered by a bus ride, he said that walkers would generally be doing 20 miles a day for 14 days. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Mr Todd said that he would do every mile, although he admitted to doing no training in advance. A gay bishop whose husband has been barred from attending a once-in-a-decade Anglican summit has accused the Archbishop of Canterbury of bowing to homophobia. Kevin Robertson, a bishop in Toronto, was told by Archbishop Justin Welby that his husband, Mohan Sharma, could not attend next years Lambeth Conference because of ferocious opposition from ultra-conservative church leaders from Africa, South America and Asia. All other bishops and their spouses from the 40 Anglican churches across the globe have been invited to the conference, which is the most significant gathering of Anglican leaders and takes place just once every 10 years. But Archbishop Welby told Bishop Robertson he could not bring his husband with him because it would upset those from traditionalist churches in Africa, South America and Asia, who strongly oppose any accommodation with LGBT+ Christians. Bishop Robertson told The Independent Archbishop Welby had effectively caved in to bigotry. African churches boom in Londons backstreets Show all 20 1 /20 African churches boom in Londons backstreets African churches boom in Londons backstreets Worshippers sing as they offer thanksgiving during Sunday service at the New Jerusalem Parish, a celestial Christian church. It is based in a former warehouse in the New Cross area of south London, just off the Old Kent Road. The service, which lasts for several hours, is attended by worshippers mainly of Nigerian descent who travel from all over London Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets The Eternal Sacred Order of Cherubim & Seraphim was founded by Moses Orimolade Tunolase in 1925 in Nigeria, and is attended by worshippers of Nigerian descent who come from all over the UK for services Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets Worshippers pray during a Good Friday church service at the Eternal Sacred Order of Cherubim & Seraphim Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets Members of the Apostles Of Muchinjikwa Christian church pray at Basildon Sporting Village prior to a mass baptism (Jorodhani) Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets People walk near the seafront as members of the Apostles of Muchinjikwa worship before a mass baptism on the beachfront on Southend-on-Sea Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets Young members of the Eternal Sacred Order of Cherubim & Seraphim take a break as they prepare to parade through the street to celebrate their annual Thanksgiving Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets Senior members of the Apostles Of Muchinjikwa Christian church baptise members on the beachfront on Southend-on-Sea Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets Members of the Eternal Sacred Order of Cherubim & Seraphim parade through the street to celebrate their annual Thanksgiving in Elephant and Castle Pictures by Simon Dawson/Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets Members of the youth church perform in a knife crime play during a Good Friday performance at the House of Praise church in London Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets Members of the Eternal Sacred Order of Cherubim & Seraphim parade through the street to celebrate their annual Thanksgiving in Elephant and Castle Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets Worshippers dance during Super Sunday service at the House of Praise church. The church, formerly a theatre and bingo hall, is one of the biggest in south London. The services, mainly attended by those of Nigerian descent, are recorded using television cameras and can hold several thousand worshippers Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets Senior members of the Apostles Of Muchinjikwa Christian church leave the sea after leading a mass baptism, or Jorodhani Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets Worshippers bless a vehicle to keep it safe after a member of the congregation had a revelation during Sunday service at the Celestial Church of Christ Grace of God Parish in Southwark, southeast London Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets Members of the Apostles Of Muchinjikwa Christian church pray outside the Basildon Sporting Village Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets Worshippers take photos after Super Sunday service at the House of Praise church in Camberwell, southeast London Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets Worshippers greet each other following a night-time Christmas Eve service at the Celestial Church of Christ in Elephant and Castle, southeast London Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets A pedestrian walks past the Holy Ghost Zone church on the Old Kent Road in London Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets A woman prays after being baptised by senior members of the Apostles Of Muchinjikwa Christian church during a mass baptism (Jorodhani) on the beachfront on Southend-on-Sea Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets A worshipper kneels on the floor as she prays during a Sunday service at the House of Praise church in Camberwell Reuters African churches boom in Londons backstreets Senior members of the Apostles Of Muchinjikwa Christian church baptise members in Southend-on-Sea Reuters When asked if the opposition of conservative bishops was driven by homophobia, not theological differences, he said: I do, because it appears there is an inconsistency. The supposed Anglican position on marriage that it is a lifelong union between one man and woman was contradicted by many bishops who had divorced and remarried, yet only gay bishops were being singled out, he noted. I know there are bishops who have been divorced and remarried, in some cases more than once, who are being invited and their spouses are also being invited. So to hold [this] up as the reason for Mohan not to be invited seems a little thin. Bishop Robertson was in London for a separate meeting in January when he was summoned to Archbishop Welbys office to be told his husband was barred. The head of the Church of England told him: If I invite your spouse to the Lambeth Conference there wont be a Lambeth Conference, Bishop Robertson reported. Hardliners have threatened to boycott the gathering altogether even though no gay partners will be present. The head of the conservative Gafcon movement of Anglican Churches, Archbishop Nicholas Okoh from the Church of Nigeria, said last week he and his fellow believers had felt the pain of betrayal because gay bishops, such as Bishop Robertson, were not also being excluded along with their partners. Welby on same sex marriage If same-sex spouses were being barred so too should gay bishops, who have also committed to a sexual relationship [which is] incompatible with scripture, he wrote in a blog post. Although gay marriage is permitted in some Anglican churches, including the United States, Scotland and soon Canada, it is currently forbidden in the Church of England and most other churches across the world. Archbishop Welby attempted to comfort Bishop Robertson during their meeting by pointing out at the last Lambeth Conference in 2008 gay bishops as well as their partners were banned. But Bishop Robertson said this did not feel like much progress to him. My hope would be that he would have said there is no consistency in not inviting the spouses of those in same-sex marriages. It would have been a brave step and he would have faced [a] backlash, but frankly hes going to face some of that anyway. As well as speaking of his own disappointment at Mr Sharmas exclusion, the bishop also bemoaned the statement the Anglican Church was making by turning their backs on LGBT+ relationships. What message does this send to more progressive Anglicans, not only in the UK and North America but to gay and lesbian Anglicans in places in the communion where its very difficult to come out? There has been growing anger at the ban on gay spouses ever since it was announced last month. The Bishop of Liverpool Paul Bayes, a prominent pro-LGBT+ advocate in the Church of England, has said he will not bring his own wife to the Lambeth Conference in protest at the decision. The other gay bishop affected by the policy, Mary Glasspool from the diocese of New York, has said she will travel to London with her wife next year. In a letter posted online, Bishop Glasspool said her wife Becki Sander would remain outside the summit and would be joined by the wives of the two other bishops from New York, in solidarity. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events So much of our dismay over the archbishops decision is that we are so blessed by the inclusion of members of the LGBTQ community in the full sacramental life of this diocese, the New York bishops wrote. [They] have asked only to receive from their church the dignity and love which they have received from their god. Bishop Robertson said he agreed: If [LGBT+ people] are not present, not seen, not known, how do we advance the conversation and build bridges through the disagreement? Keeping people away and excluding people is not the answer. A spokesperson for Archbishop Welby declined to comment, and the Anglican communions spokesperson would only point to a blog by the organisations head explaining the policy. A woman who was abused by the Rotherham grooming gang has condemned the New Zealand terror attack, after it emerged the gunman had the words for Rotherham written on his ammunition. The words are believed to reference the sexual abuse of 1,400 children in the South Yorkshire town between the late 1980s and 2013. Sammy Woodhouse, who was raped by Arshid Hussain, one of the men in the gang, and who waived her right to anonymity in an effort to help other victims of sexual abuse, said the shootings in two mosques on Friday was an evil act and not done in our name. My thoughts go out to all the victims killed today in New Zealand, she said on Twitter. Such an evil act. As a Rotherham survivor, I would like to add a message from me and my family. This was not done in our name. New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Show all 11 1 /11 New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Zakaria Bhuiyan People gather hoping to find out information about Zakaria Bhuiyan who is still missing after the mosques shootings in Christchurch. David Moir/AFP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Mucad Ibrahim Three-year-old Mucad Ibrahim, the youngest known victim of the mass shooting at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, on 15 March 2019. Abdi Ibrahim via AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Nadeem Rasheed Nadeem Rasheed, brother of Pakistani Naeem Rashid who died alongside his son Talha Naeem, 21, who were killed in shooting at a Mosque in Christchurch, at their home town in Abbottabad, EPA New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Omar Nabi Omar Nabi speaks to the media about losing his father Haji Daoud Nabi, 71, in the mosque attack REUTERS New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Ash Mohammed Ash Mohammed, right, talks to a police officer about his father and two brothers who are missing near the Masjid Al Noor mosque AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Akhtar Khokhur Akhtar Khokhur, 58, shows a picture of her missing husband Mehaboobbhai Khokhar, 65. AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Wasseim Alsati A note is seen on a window of a door at the family home of Wasseim Alsati in Christchurch on 17 March 2019. AFP/Getty Images New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Haroon Mahmood Relatives offer condolences to nephew (centre) of Haroon Mahmood, a Pakistani citizen who was killed in Christchurch mosque shootings. AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Farid Ahmed Farid Ahmed (pictured) survived the Al Noor mosque shootings but his wife Husne was killed. AFP/Getty Images New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Syed Areeb Ahmed A relative shows a picture of Syed Areeb Ahmed, a Pakistani citizen who was killed the Christchurch mosque shooting. AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Naeem Rashid A relative looks at a picture on a mobile phone of Pakistani nationals Naeem Rashid and his son Talha Naeem (right) who died in the Christchurch shootings. AFP/Getty Images Brenton Tarrant, the suspected gunman, shot and killed 49 people during the attack, which was carried out at two mosques in Christchurch on Friday. A picture of an ammunition clip he allegedly posted to Twitter before the attack showed the words for Rotherham written on it. The message could also be seen in video footage of the shooting, which was broadcast live on Facebook. The 28-year-old claimed to be inspired by extreme-right wing organisations and white supremacist ideology, in a manifesto posted online. His reference to the Rotherham scandal was likely driven by the fact around 80 per cent of the gang suspects are of Pakistani heritage, with the remainder a mixture of white British and other races. Posting on Twitter, Chris Read, the leader of Rotherham Council, distanced the town from the the gunmans sick ideology. Awful news from Christchurch this morning, he wrote, on Saturday. Our thoughts are with all those affected, and of course first and foremost with the Muslim community. All decent people will be revolted by the sickening ideology of those who seek to divide us. That the perpetrator of this violence apparently sought in some twisted way to use our towns history to justify his actions makes this personal to us. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events He added: Rotherham has already seen far too much violence. Our community will continue to stand united for decency and the rule of law. Additional reporting by agencies Parliament has voted to back an extension to Article 50 effectively asking for a delay to Brexit. But the question of a delay isnt up to the UK it has to be approved by the EU. Whats the process for approving an extension? Theresa Mays team are in behind-closed-door talks in a bid to secure the support of up to 20 Labour MPs for the prime ministers troubled Brexit deal. Ministers are said to be negotiating with the MPs from Leave-backing seats, as pressure intensifies on Ms May to secure backing for her twice-defeated plan. With just four days to go until the vote, the Labour Brexiteers have demanded that parliaments right to shape Britains future relations with the EU be cemented into law. Attempts to woo the support of Jeremy Corbyns MPs have so far largely failed, but if efforts succeed then the Labour backing could neutralise an expected rebellion of hardcore Tory Eurosceptic MPs. It comes as senior ministers also held significant talks with the Northern Irish DUP in a bid to lock in their support for the big vote on Tuesday, while more Tory MPs came out in support of Ms Mays deal as the clock ticks down to Brexit day on 29 March. Papers react to the Brexit vote Show all 10 1 /10 Papers react to the Brexit vote Papers react to the Brexit vote The Guardian The Guardian highlights just how soon the Prime Minister's defeat has come Britain's scheduled date of departure Papers react to the Brexit vote Daily Mail The Daily Mail takes aim at MPs who political editor Jason Groves claims have "plunged Britain into chaos" by rejecting the Prime Minister's deal Papers react to the Brexit vote The Independent Daily Edition The Independent calls for a second referendum as a way forward Papers react to the Brexit vote Daily Express The Daily Express leads with exasperation, with political editor Macer Hall writing that "Brexit was hanging in the balance last night" Papers react to the Brexit vote The Sun The Sun take the Prime Minister's "croaky" voice into account as it reports on last night's "Brexit shambles" Papers react to the Brexit vote Financial Times The Financial Times claims that the Prime Minister's authority is "in shreds" and reports on the fall in the pound in the wake of the vote Papers react to the Brexit vote The Daily Telegraph The Daily Telegraph calls the Prime Minister's defeat "humiliating" and claims that a delay to Brexit is likely Papers react to the Brexit vote The i The i claims that parliament is "out of control" Papers react to the Brexit vote The Times The Times claims that Britain is in crisis and that the Prime Minister "may face resignation calls" Papers react to the Brexit vote Daily Mirror The Daily Mirror says that the Prime Minister "surrenders" in reference to the likelihood of Brexit being delayed after the vote Up to now Ms Mays efforts to win over Labour Brexiteers to her deal have fallen short, as her 1.6m fund for Leave-voting towns in England was met with mockery, while a separate package to protect workers rights persuaded neither MPs nor trade unions. A handful of Labour MPs are thought to want to be more certain that the deal will pass before publicly backing it, but a second key problem is trust, with others unwilling to accept assurances that a new Tory PM will not ditch promises over employment rights a few months down the line. One Labour MP involved told The Independent: If we get the assurances we want, then up to 20 Labour MPs could back her when the vote comes back. And it means that even if she is ousted by her own MPs, then we have those assurances laid down in law. Labour Leavers want ministers to give legal force to commitments on employment rights and standards that currently sitting in the Brexit political declaration, and also to provide fixed dates on which parliament will be consulted on them. Another Labour MP said: Parliament should have an opportunity to be able to express views on all of the different aspects that was said, it should not be a problem but it never materialised in writing. What colleagues were looking for was something much more definitive from the prime minister. The MP added: It could be along those lines because that was one aspect that was supposed to be attractive to a number of colleagues. MPs have overwhelmingly rejected the prime ministers deal twice first by 230 votes and then again by 149 on Tuesday but the PM is hoping one more push could take it over the line. Ms May had called Labour MPs personally ahead of the second vote on her deal on Tuesday, but still suffered a historic defeat, with only three backing the deal. But the potential to win Labour support is clear. For example, 18 of Mr Corbyns MPs defied his will to ensure a second referendum was not backed by parliament this week, five of whom were frontbenchers who later resigned. Mr Corbyn had ordered his MPs to abstain but shadow ministers Yvonne Fovargue, Emma Lewell-Buck and Justin Madders, plus party whip Stephanie Peacock, all voted against the motion and then quit. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Stoke-on-Trent North MP Ruth Smeeth, a parliamentary aide to deputy leader Tom Watson, also resigned. Ms Lewell-Buck told her local paper: If it comes down to either voting for Theresa Mays deal, having no deal or not leaving then Ill end up voting for her deal, because Ill be backed into a corner. Six Labour MPs also helped Ms May block a bid from a cross-party group to strip the government of control of the Brexit process, something which had been expected to pass. On Friday, it emerged that chancellor Philip Hammond is leading government talks with the DUP in a bid to win their support for the deal, prompting speculation there could be financial incentives for the party to back the plan. When the DUP agreed to prop up Ms Mays administration in the Commons after the 2017 election, the party negotiated more than 1.5bn in extra spending for Northern Ireland over 2018-19. Money in the agreement, and potentially the support of the partys 10 MPs for Ms May, is set to end in June, creating the opportunity for its leader Arlene Foster to negotiate new terms, with the governments main ask likely to be safe passage of her Brexit deal. Following top level discussions on Friday, which also involved Cabinet Office minister David Lidington, environment secretary Michael Gove and chief whip Julian Smith, DUP deputy leader Nigel Dodds said there had been a constructive dialogue. Asked if extra cash for Northern Ireland had been discussed with Philip Hammond, Mr Dodds said: The chancellor of the exchequer is obviously a key member of the government, but he is also responsible for HMRC and the whole issue of their involvement in customs and other regulatory issues is a key concern for us. He added: We are not discussing cash in these discussions. In a further sign of the weakening opposition from Eurosceptic Tories, Esther McVey, who quit the cabinet over Ms Mays deal, indicated she would now back it. She told BBC Radio 4s Political Thinking with Nick Robinson podcast: The element now is that people will have to take a bad deal rather than no deal. Botched contracts put in place to help the country ferry in vital goods in the case of a no-deal Brexit could cost almost 30m more if the UKs departure from the EU is delayed. The deals were set up to take account of a potential no-deal exit on 29 March but could see firms receive compensation for expenses incurred and may also cost more if the departure date alters creating extra work. The news once again throws a question mark over the position of Chris Grayling, the ally of Theresa May who has been heavily criticised over the contracts and other problems relating to his transport brief. Recommended Top Tory quits local party ahead of push to deselect him over Brexit The controversial ferry process put in place by the Department for Transport had already seen a row over the collapse of one contract with Seaborne Freight, which had no ferries, and a 33m out-of-court settlement with Eurotunnel. On Saturday, The Financial Times reported the cost of a delay to Brexit could amount to a further 28m in relation to the contracts. Brittany Ferries, which has contracts worth 46.6m under the deal, said the terms included fair and proportionate compensation in a deal scenario, taking account of the significant preparatory work and concomitant costs incurred by Brittany Ferries. It said the firm had already incurred a series of direct costs and resource commitments and the new schedule cannot now be changed, even as an extension to Article 50 seems likely. Additional staff had been employed and more than 20,000 existing bookings had been changed, the firm noted. Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Show all 60 1 /60 Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Phil Watson Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Phil Watson Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Phil Watson Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Phil Watson Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Phil Watson Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Phil Watson Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Phil Watson Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Phil Watson Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Phil Watson Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Phil Watson Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Phil Watson Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Phil Watson Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Anu Shukla Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Phil Watson Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Phil Watson Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr Dogs rallied in Brexit protest Hundreds of protesters gathered with their dogs for the 'Brexit is a Dog's Dinner' rally near Parliament in Westminster on Sunday 10 March 2019. Campaigners said they were concerned about the impact of leaving the EU on animal welfare. They said Brexit will make it difficult to take pets abroad, lead to a deficit in vets in the UK and increase the cost of animal healthcare. From bulldogs to whippets, dogs gathered to feast on treats and snacks at specially prepared dinner tables where they were served by their very own butler. The event was organised by the Wooferendum group, which also staged an event in August last year to demand a stop to Brexit. Ben Starr A National Audit Office memorandum on the contracts, which seek to ensure that medicines and other vital supplies can continue to reach the UK in the event of a no-deal Brexit causing chaos on the short Dover-Calais and Channel Tunnel routes, noted the potential problems caused by a delay to Article 50. It said: If the date of the UKs exit from the EU changes, and there is still the possibility of a no-deal EU exit, the department will need to decide how it wishes to proceed with the contracts. There is no provision for the start date to be delayed, but the department may seek to negotiate this with the operators. A Department for Transport spokesman said: As the prime minister has made clear, the legal default in UK and EU law remains that the UK will leave the EU without a deal unless something else is agreed. Leaving with a deal is still our priority, but as a responsible government it is only right that we push on with contingency measures, that will ensure critical goods such as medicines can continue to enter the UK. The government has always been clear that any extra capacity that is not used, can be sold back to the market. Senior Tory Nick Boles has resigned from his local Conservative Party amid a heated row over Brexit and a drive to deselect him as the seats candidate for the next election. The former minister told members of Grantham and Stamford Conservative Association he was resigning with immediate effect but will continue to take the Conservative whip at Westminster if it is offered on acceptable terms. His departure serves to underline the disintegrating unity of his party following a week that saw 188 Tory MPs, including eight cabinet ministers, refuse to back Theresa Mays strategy to delay Britains departure from the EU. Recommended Labour Leaver MPs demand say on future Brexit talks Next week the prime minister will again try to push her Brexit deal through the House of Commons, after it was defeated on Tuesday by 149 votes and by 230 votes in January. Mr Boles was a close ally of former prime minister David Cameron, supported Remain in the 2016 referendum, and has been an advocate since of remaining in a customs unions and single market with the EU. While he has backed Ms Mays deal in votes, he has enraged his local association by also taking part in cross-party moves to strip her executive of power to set parliaments agenda, with the goal of giving MPs a chance to choose the next Brexit steps should her deal fail. Many Conservative Eurosceptics see this as an attempt to soften or even stop Brexit altogether. The MPs letter of resignation, seen by the BBC, suggests he will still be prepared to vote along party lines in some instances and could still back Ms Mays deal in a critical vote on Tuesday. Councillor Martin Hill, vice president of the Grantham and Stamford Conservative Association, told members: As you are all aware, Nick has been at odds with the local party and the prime minister for some time, so this announcement does not come as a complete surprise, but the timing does leave a lot to be desired. Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Show all 15 1 /15 Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Pork There will be tariffs on pork in order to protect British farmers Getty Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Cheese There will be tariffs in place on some cheeses including 22.10/100kg of cheddar, 19.10/100kg of processed cheese and 18.60/100kg on some blue cheeses Getty Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Milk There will be no tariffs in place on milk Getty Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Car Parts There will be no tariffs on car parts imported from Europe PA Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Cars However finished cars will face tariffs of 10.6% Getty Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Alcoholic drinks There will be no tariffs on alcoholic drinks - except on some rums due to ingredients used in their distilling process Getty Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Beef There will be tariffs on beef in order to protect British farmers Getty Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Fish There will be no tariffs on many types of fish including cod, haddock, salmon and sea bass Getty Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Fruit and vegetables There will be no tariffs on almost all fruit and vegetables Getty Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Chocolate There will be no tariffs on chocolate or other cocoa products Getty Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Poultry There will be tariffs on poultry in order to protect British farmers Getty Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Ceramics There will be some tariffs in place on ceramis Getty Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Steel There will be no tariffs on steel Getty Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Coal There will be no tariffs on coal Getty Tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit Lamb/Mutton There will be tariffs on the meat of sheep in order to protect British farmers Getty I understand that it is Mr Boless intention to carry on as the MP for Grantham and Stamford until the next general election despite being elected to represent us in parliament. After losing votes on previous occasions in the House of Commons, the prime minister was forced to let MPs vote on extending Article 50 last Thursday. The motion put in front of the house said she would go to the European Council at the end of next week and ask for a short delay to the end of June if MPs backed her deal and a longer one if they did not. But with Conservative ranks full of MPs who baulk at the idea of delaying the UKs departure at all, and the prospect of having to sack dozens of minsters, she allowed a free vote. DUP Nigel Doods denies 'cash for votes' over Theresa May's Brexit deal As well as Brexit secretary Stephen Barclay, top ministers who voted against her approach included defence secretary Gavin Williamson, trade secretary Liam Fox, commons leader Andrea Leadsom, Treasury secretary Liz Truss, transport secretary Chris Grayling and development secretary Penny Mordaunt. Welsh secretary Alun Cairns abstained. A further 27 junior ministers and 11 whips also voted against the approach Ms May is taking, including the outspoken Conservative deputy chairman James Cleverly and other Brexit ministers Kwasi Kwarteng and Chris Heaton-Harris. Three other whips, including chief Julian Smith, declined to vote. On Friday, it emerged that chancellor Philip Hammond is leading government talks with the DUP in a bid to win their support for Ms Mays deal, prompting speculation there could be financial incentives for the party to back the plan. Full details of the horrific ordeal to which an 11-year-old girl impregnated by an elderly rapist in Argentina was subjected by doctors intent on ensuring the baby survived for religious reasons have been disclosed by campaigners acting on her behalf. The young girl, who is being called Lucia to protect her identity, became pregnant after being raped by her grandmothers 65-year-old partner, who has since been arrested. She was placed under her grandmothers care in 2015, after her two older sisters were reportedly abused by her mothers partner. Lucia was forced to give birth after authorities in Argentina refused to let her have the abortion to which she was legally entitled triggering a wave of outrage around the world and reigniting a fierce debate on the countrys restrictive abortion rules. After being admitted to hospital after two attempts to kill herself, Lucia underwent a Caesarean section at the end of February after 23 weeks of pregnancy. The baby died on International Womens Day on 8 March. Lucia was discharged from hospital yesterday. Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Show all 7 1 /7 Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Derry Girls cast members Siobhan McSweeney and Nicola Coughlan (right) join MPS and women impacted by Northern Ireland's strict abortion laws PA Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Heidi Allen (second right) joins the protest PA Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster A luggage tag on a suitcase, symbolising the women who travel from Northern Ireland to England for terminations PA Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster The campaigners march across Westminster Bridge PA Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Counter-protesters Rebecca Morgan (left) and her daughter Helen, one, demonstrate in favour of Northern Ireland's current laws Getty Images Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Protesters supporting Northern Ireland's abortion laws at Parliament Square Getty Images Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Demonstrators pull suitcases to symbolise the women who travel from Northern Ireland to England for a termination AFP/Getty Images I want you to remove what the old man put inside me, Lucia told officials before the C-section was carried out. Celia Debono, national director of the Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean for the Defence of Womens Rights (Cladem), which Lucias family has asked to legally represent them, told The Independent: Lucia was frequently given medication, without informing her what the purpose of the medication was. On 26 February, the day the Caesarean was performed, they had her fasting all day and the only medication she received was for increasing the growth and development of the foetus, while Lucias mother was told they were vitamins. Ms Debono claimed the health professionals gave Lucia information that was not clear or certain. They told her that if the legal interruption of pregnancy was carried out she could die, she said. She was given false information they told her they were injecting vitamins because she was anaemic and not corticosteroids for foetal maturation. She added: The girl was medicated with steroids in order to promote the growth and development of the foetus, even though expressly and by means of a note that the mother presented together with ANDHES [Argentine Northwest in Human Rights and Social Studies] and Cladem organisations, it was specifically requested that medication not be used for the purposes of foetal maturation. A local health professional, who wanted to remain anonymous, added: My understanding is that she was at some point given medication with the intention of increasing lung development of the foetus, while the family was under the impression that such medication were vitamins. The young girl went to a clinic in a rural area of Tucuman province on 29 January after suffering a severe stomach ache for several days. Doctors realised she was 19 weeks pregnant and sent her to a public hospital in Banda del Rio Sali, just outside the provincial capital. Both Lucia and her mother made it clear they wanted the pregnancy to be terminated, but local officials and activists tried to prevent it. Ms Debono claimed the young girl was taken to a hospital room to which only her mother and aunt were allowed access. None of the lawyers or human rights defenders could approach the girl to find out her health status, she said. Abortion is only legal in the case of rape and danger to the life of the woman in Argentina, after an attempt to legalise abortion up to a 14-week threshold was narrowly defeated in the countrys senate last year. Lucia qualified under two of them; because her health was in danger, both physically and psychologically and because she had been the victim of rape, Ms Debono said. A doctor declared in court that Lucia faced high obstetric risk should her pregnancy be permitted to proceed. Eventually, she was granted an abortion, only for doctors to conclude it was too risky to go ahead with the procedure and perform a C-section instead. Carlos Sanchez, Tucumans archbishop, recorded a message last month revealing Lucias real name and calling on Christians to defend all human life. Barbara Jimenez, Latin America and the Caribbean regional coordinator of Equality Now, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) which aims to promote the rights of women and girls, said: Lucia remained hospitalised for more than a month, was isolated, medicalised and forced to be a mother. Her right to privacy and identity were violated by revealing her name. The doctors who agreed to conduct the abortion found her with severe pre-eclampsia which left them with the only option to perform a Caesarean section. Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy complication which can be deadly, characterised by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, most often the liver and kidneys. Ms Jimenez noted that forced child pregnancy is not just a problem in Argentina but across Latin America as a whole. Tens of thousands of girls in the region become pregnant after being raped every year, according to CLADEM research covering 14 countries. Governments need to take immediate steps to protect girls from this widespread sexual abuse, Ms Jimenez said. Forced child pregnancy is violence the result of sexual abuse and rape. Events leading up to the pregnancy and the pregnancy itself are deeply traumatic for a child and have lifelong implications, both psychological and physical. The body of a child mother is not fully developed and so pregnancy is often damaging to her reproductive system and other organs that are not yet ready for childbirth. Dr Erika Brunnoto, secretary of human rights of Tucuman province, did not immediately respond to The Independents request for comment. On the drab street outside Jody Wilson-Rayboulds constituency office in Vancouver, an 80-year-old woman called Barbara reveals she is suffering from a dilemma. She does not like Justin Trudeau or his Liberal Party, she says, but she is so impressed by the way member of parliament Wilson-Raybould herself a Liberal stood up to his alleged bullying, she is tempted to vote for her later this year. I think she did a very good job. I one hundred per cent believe her, says the woman, asking that her full name not be used. Im a bit confused because I dont want to vote Liberal. I dont know whether to vote for her or not. Shes my MP. Id like to vote for her. Across this city, people raise similar questions over the scandal that has shaken Canada to its base and made people wonder whether they got it wrong about Trudeau. Is the man who promised to usher in a new kind of politics, who filled his cabinet with women and whom to liberals around the world was held up as a hopeful alternative to Donald Trump, just another identikit self-seeking politician? A columnist for the conservative National Post says the affair reveals the prime minister is indistinguishable from all the grubby leaders that went before him. Murdered and missing indigenous women in US and Canada Show all 11 1 /11 Murdered and missing indigenous women in US and Canada Murdered and missing indigenous women in US and Canada Alaya McIvor Alaya McIvor lost two women close to her as well as experiencing human trafficking, and now speaks out about indigenous rights Alaya McIvor Murdered and missing indigenous women in US and Canada Roberta McIvor Roberta McIvor, cousin of Alaya, was killed in Manitoba, Canada, in 2012 Alaya McIvor Murdered and missing indigenous women in US and Canada Laney Ewenin memorial A memorial for Eleanor 'Laney' Ewenin who was found dead in 1982 Danielle Ewenin Murdered and missing indigenous women in US and Canada Canada inquiry Families at the National Inquiry in Canada Danielle Ewenin Murdered and missing indigenous women in US and Canada Canada inquiry Families at the National Inquiry in Canada Danielle Ewenin Murdered and missing indigenous women in US and Canada LA MMIW protest Activists march for missing and murdered indigenous women at the Women's March California 2019 Sarah Morris/Getty Murdered and missing indigenous women in US and Canada LA MMIW protest Activists march for missing and murdered indigenous women at the Women's March California 2019 Sarah Morris/Getty Murdered and missing indigenous women in US and Canada Seattle MMIW protest Erandi Flores and Nadia Bucio, both from Mexico and from a group raising awareness for missing and murdered indigenous women, join thousands at a rally at Cal Anderson Park prior to the Women's March on January 20, 2018 in Seattle, Washington. Karen Ducey/Getty Murdered and missing indigenous women in US and Canada LA MMIW protest Activists march for missing and murdered indigenous women at the Women's March California 2019 Getty Images Murdered and missing indigenous women in US and Canada Seattle MMIW protest Thousands listen to speakers raising awareness of missing and murdered indigenous women at a rally at Cal Anderson Park prior to the Women's March on January 20, 2018 in Seattle, Washington. Across the nation hundreds of thousands of people are marching on what is the one-year anniversary of President Donald Trump's swearing-in Karen Ducey/Getty Murdered and missing indigenous women in US and Canada LA MMIW protest A young activist at the Women's March in California, 2019 Sarah Morris/Getty Wilson-Raybould, meanwhile, the first indigenous Canadian to hold the position of attorney general, is being praised for refusing to bend to the premiers alleged effort to have her drop the prosecution of a company on the grounds it could impact up 9,000 jobs in his own constituency. I think her doing that is an important part of the democratic process, says Ian McLellan, 26, a student. Its important when things are unethical, for them to be addressed. I think Trudeau is the face of neoliberalism. I think someone like Jody Wilson-Raybould addressing the facade of a lot of these policies, is important. The scandal that some commentators believe could cost Trudeaus Liberals control of government in an election scheduled to be held before 21 October is twisting and complicated. At its core lies alleged corruption, an attempted political fix and one womans apparent refusal to play along. Last month, the Globe and Mail revealed Wilson-Raybould had in October been pressured by the prime minister and up 11 of his aides to help a Montreal-based construction firm settle a criminal case out of court and avoid prosecution over allegations it bribed Libyan officials for contracts. A prosecution would have meant SNC-Lavalin, a major Canadian employer, would have been blocked from winning Canadian government contracts for a year. She refused to agree to a deferred prosecution deal. Wilson-Raybould was moved from her job as attorney general earlier this year and then resigned from the cabinet. Gerald Butts, Trudeaus top aide, also quit amid accusations he had pressured her an accusation he denies. Meanwhile, another cabinet minister, Jane Philpott, stood down, saying she had lost trust in the prime minister. Wilson-Raybould told a committee she had faced veiled threats and sustained pressure (Getty) Wilson-Raybould, 47, alleged in testimony to parliaments justice committee that she had faced veiled threats and sustained pressure to help the company avoid a prosecution. She said the machinations invoking Trudeau and his top aides made her have thoughts of the Saturday Night Massacre the series of firings and resignations prompted by pressure exerted by Richard Nixon during Watergate. She said she believed as long as she remained attorney general, SNC-Lavalin would not be given the option to avoid prosecution. I knew, as long as I was attorney general, this would not occur. I had concerns when I was removed as AG that this might not be the case, she said. Asked if she had confidence in the prime minister, she added: I did not have confidence to sit around the table, the cabinet table. Wilson-Raybould, whose heritage includes Kwakiutl and Wewaikai ancestry, has a well-regarded record of working on indigenous, or First Nation, issues. She worked for land rights, and was elected to leadership positions on the Wewaikai Nation and then the British Columbia Assembly of First Nations. Before that, she worked as a federal prosecutor. When she ran as member of parliament in 2015, she did so at the suggestion of Trudeau, the son of Canadas 15th prime minister Pierre Trudeau, and who became leader of the Liberal Party in 2013. Trudeau: I take lessons from Cabinet scandal At the time, some in her community criticised her for joining a federal system that had long oppressed indigenous people. It was not until 2008 that the government apologised for the residential school system scandal that for more than 100 years, had forcibly sent many thousands of indigenous children to state-operated boarding schools to assimilate the youngsters into mainstream society. Thousands of children died in care. Wilson-Rayboulds father, Bill Wilson, a tribal leader who lives on Vancouver Island, is remembered for fighting with Trudeaus father during the 1980s over the governments efforts at reconciliation. Wilson recently told Macleans magazine he believed his daughter had been kicked in the teeth. Its the same old, same old. I spent some time in Ottawa, though not as an elected official, so its not a surprise that these things happen. Theres huge money involved, he said. If you look at SNC-Lavalin, they represent the lifeblood of Montreal and the surrounding area. The outgoing [CEO] freely admits to [millions] in bribe money. It seems to be the way things are done. Cameron McBeth, an indigenous activist of Metis descent, says many perceive the pressure put on Wilson-Raybould by the prime ministers office, as an attack on the whole community. He says many saw it as indicative of the way the federal government viewed indigenous people. Indigenous women in Canada and the US have long struggled for their voices to be heard (Andrew Buncombe) People feel this to their core. They feel they are attacking her, he says. People feel this is what they have been doing for decades and centuries, rather than [indigenous people] being treasured. Not everyone has been supportive of the Vancouver Granville MP. Some have accused Wilson-Raybould of not being a team player. Former deputy prime minister Sheila Copps said Trudeau should have been tougher. In comments that were condemned by many for being racist, she accused Wilson-Raybould of pursuing a victim narrative and said: I think, had there been 9,000 Aboriginal jobs involved in her decision, she would have viewed it differently. Trudeau, 47, denies putting pressure on Wilson-Raybould or reshuffling her over her stance on SNC-Lavalin. While he said there had been an erosion of trust, he has not apologised. There was no breakdown of our systems, of our rule of law, of the integrity of our institutions, he told a press conference. In regards to standing up for jobs and defending the integrity of the rule of law, I continue to say there was no inappropriate pressure. A court in Canada last week denied SNC-Lavalins latest attempt to avoid a trial over the corruption allegation. In a statement, the company says it will vigorously defend itself against the charges in court if no remediation agreement is possible. It adds: We are disappointed with the decision of the federal court; we applied for judicial review in the hopes that such a review would elicit the reasons for the decision taken by the director of public prosecutions not to offer SNC-Lavalin a negotiation of a remediation agreement. Wilson-Raybould failed to respond to repeated requests from The Independent for an interview. Her office also failed to respond to written enquiries. She previously said Trudeaus office was limiting her right to speak about the case. Trudeau has said he is pleased Wilson-Raybould had the chance to testify. On a recent afternoon, Martina Griffiths emerges from BC Place stadium, dressed in the colours of Canada and having just watched a Rugby Sevens match. She is a Trudeau supporter, but angry over what he is said to have done. She supports Wilson-Raybould for speaking out, but fears the damage to the Liberals image is so bad, Andrew Scheer and the opposition Conservative Party could win later this year. I feel maybe she dropped this at a bad time for Canada, she says. Because we could be saddled with born-again conservatives. Nineteen corpses have been found in plastic bags in a western Mexico sewage canal, according to authorities. Prosecutors in the state of Jalisco said the bags were found in a town just east of the city of Guadalajara on Thursday night. Gerardo Octavio Solis, Jaliscos state attorney, said 10 of the victims have been identified so far. The victims were killed by blows, strangulation or bullet wounds, and some bodies were more decomposed than others, suggesting they had been tossed into the canal at different times. Mr Solis said one woman was among the dead. Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade Show all 20 1 /20 Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade A soldier burns an illegal opium plantation near Pueblo Viejo in the Sierra Madre del Sur, in the southern state of Guerrero, Mexico Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade Illegal opium plantation burning Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade Soldiers cut opium poppies as they destroy a field of illegal plantation Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade Poppy farmer Nieves Garcia reacts next to her husband, "We are not drug traffickers, we want a dignified life," said Garcia, who has grown poppies since she was a child. "My kids have left this place because there's no way of getting ahead." Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade Clouds over the Sierra Madre del Sur Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade Poppy farmer Francisco Santiago Clemente walks with his gun on his back in a corn field Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade Opium poppies burn after being set on fire to by the army Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade Soldiers arrive at the area where they found an illegal opium plantation Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade Poppy farmer Santiago Sanchez holds opium paste Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade Soldiers unload their weapons at the camp near the area where they found an illegal opium plantation Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade A soldier burns an illegal opium plantatio Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade A child sits on a sidewalk in Santa Cruz Yucucani Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade Soldiers destroy a field of illegal opium plantation Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade A woman tends to her opium poppy plant outside her house Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade A soldier waves to locals near the area Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade A soldier stands near residents as he arrives at the area where they found an illegal opium plantation Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade Soldiers camp near the area where they found an illegal opium plantation Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade Soldiers patrol the area of Pueblo Viejo Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade A soldier burns an illegal opium plantation near Pueblo Viejo Reuters Mexico seeks to halt heroin trade Soldiers cut opium poppies Reuters The total number of victims could also rise because divers were searching the canal to see if more corpses had sunk to the bottom. Mr Solis said nine of the bodies were too badly composed to yield fingerprints, but one identified man appeared to have a criminal record. Almost all seemed to have had their hands bound, he added. Firefighters joined in the effort to retrieve the bags, which were tied shut with wire. The discovery came less than a week after the bodies of seven people were found murdered in the Los Altos de Jalisco region, according to Diario de Yucatan. Mexican drug cartels frequently use such body dumping areas to get rid of the corpses of rivals. Jalisco is home to the drug cartel of the same name. Associated Press Donald Trump has vetoed a measure to block his national emergency declaration. The measure passed the House and Senate with bipartisan support on Friday. Numerous polls suggest Mr Trump's decision was popular among his Republican base. But his decision to use executive authority to fund a wall along the southern border is opposed by a clear majority of the public. That is reflected in seven polls taken from early January to early March. By roughly a 2-to-1 margin, Americans oppose Mr Trump's decision to use emergency powers to build a border wall. That is a wider margin than the Senate resolution to overturn Mr Trump's declaration of national emergency, which was passed by a 59-to-41 vote margin. The most recent poll on the issue comes from Monmouth University and was in the field between 1-4 March. Monmouth found 65 per cent of Americans disapproved of Mr Trump "declaring a national emergency in order to use funding designated for the US military to build a wall along the Mexican border." Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California Show all 20 1 /20 Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California The prototypes for President Trumps border wall are being demolished. AP Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California The US Customs and Border protection had built the eight 30-foot tall steel and concrete models near San Diego on the US-Mexico border. Reuters Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A 2018 report from the Government Accountability Office found that the construction challenges presented by the four concrete models would be extensive and those presented by two of the other models would be substantial. Reuters Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California It was intended that Mr Trump would choose his favourite of the designs after testing had been completed. AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California The President is yet to comment. AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California Each prototype cost $300,000 to $500,000 to build and they are being knocked down in order to make way for the San Diego Secondary Wall project which will see up to 14 miles of barrier being built to support the existing steel border fence. AP Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California The new barrier will not employ the design of any of the prototypes, instead being built of the favoured steel bollards which make up the current section of the wall at San Diego. Reuters Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California The new secondary barrier being built near San Diego. Reuters Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California The rubble of one of the demolished prototypes. Reuters Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A steel wall prototype AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A wall prototype made from a mix of steel and concrete AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A wall prototype made from a mix of steel and concrete AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A concrete wall prototype AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A steel wall prototype AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A concrete wall prototype AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A concrete wall prototype AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A concrete wall prototype AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California A digger approaches the prototype wall AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California Aerial view of the wall prototypes at the US-Mexico border after they were torn down AFP/Getty Trump prototypes for Mexico border wall demolished in California An aerial view showing Tijuana, Mexico on the left and the demolished wall prototypes on the right AFP/Getty In January, Monmouth asked a similar question, but did not include the part about "using designated military funds to pay for the wall". Opinion barely budged between then and now: disapproval now is 65-33, then it was 64-34. Across the months, questions with slightly different wording generated nearly identical results. Recommended Trump vetoes Congress vote over border wall Near the end of February, an NBC News-Wall Street Journal poll found 60 per cent of registered voters disapproved of "Trump's decision to declare a national emergency to build a wall of over 200 miles along the US-Mexico border." Shortly before that, NPR-PBS News Hour-Marist found 61 per cent who disapproved of "Trump declaring a national emergency to build a wall along the US-Mexico border." Looking back to the beginning of February, CNN found 66 per cent of respondents agreed Mr Trump "should not declare a national emergency in order to build a wall along the border with Mexico." And a Washington Post-ABC News poll from early January found an identical 66 per cent who opposed "Trump using emergency powers to build a wall along the US-Mexico border." The Post-ABC poll question included language saying that "Presidents can declare a state of national emergency, giving them special powers to take action without approval from Congress." The emergency declaration is unpopular among Democrats and most independents, though it is favoured by a majority of Republicans. In the most recent Monmouth poll, 93 per cent of Democrats and 71 per cent of independents disapproved of Mr Trump declaring a national emergency while 73 per cent of Republicans approved. Those opinions were largely consistent from January's Monmouth poll when 93 per cent of Democrats and 66 per cent of independents disapproved while 71 per cent of Republicans approved. Between the disapproval resolution that passed the House last month, the Senate's similar bipartisan rebuke that passed this week and the consistently-held public opinion, opposition far outweighs support for the president's emergency resolution. The Washington Post Donald Trump has said he does not see white nationalism as a rising global threat, after 49 people were killed in a racist attack on two mosques in New Zealand. Speaking to journalists following the shootings in Christchurch, the US president claimed white supremacists were a small group of people that have very, very serious problems. The massacre on Friday has sparked renewed warnings about the growing threat of neo-Nazism, and followed deadly far right attacks in the the US, the UK and elsewhere in Europe in recent years. Asked by a reporter on Friday if he saw white nationalism as a rising threat around the world, Mr Trump replied: I dont really. I think its a small group of people that have very, very serious problems. I guess, if you look at what happened in New Zealand, perhaps thats a case. I dont know enough about it yet. They are just learning about the person and the people involved. But its certainly a terrible thing. Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' Show all 16 1 /16 Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' 562600.bin REUTERS Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' 562599.bin REUTERS Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' 562598.bin AP Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' 562597.bin GETTY IMAGES Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' 561983.bin Getty Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' 562261.bin AP Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' 561923.bin REUTERS Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' 561921.bin GETTY IMAGES Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' 561882.bin GETTY IMAGES Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' 561982.bin Getty Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' 561985.bin Getty Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' 561986.bin Getty Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' 561987.bin Getty Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' 561988.bin Getty Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' 561984.bin Getty Christchurch left devastated on New Zealand's 'darkest day' 561981.bin Getty The suspect charged over the Christchurch attack is believed to have links with violent racist groups in Europe and Asia. Brenton Tarrant is thought to have met with extreme right-wing organisations in Europe two years ago, according to security sources. In a self-styled manifesto published online, the 28-year-old said he had been inspired by white supremacist terrorist Anders Breivik, who killed 77 people in Norway in 2011. He also referenced Dylann Roof, who shot dead nine black churchgoers in Charleston, South Carolina, in 2015 in a purported attempt to start a race war. Elsewhere in the 74-page document, Tarrant praised Mr Trump as symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose. White supremacist killings in the US more than doubled last year, according to Southern Poverty Law Centre (SPLC), which monitors extremist violence. In a report in last month, the organisation accused the president of pushing noxious anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim ideas into the public consciousness. New Zealand's prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, said on Saturday she did not agree with Mr Trump's assessment that white supremacism did not pose a growing threat. She added she had spoken to the US president and asked him to show "sympathy and love for all Muslim communities". Mr Trump "acknowledged that and agreed", she said. Christchurch mosque attacks: What we know so far The president has repeatedly been accused of emboldening the far right during his time in the White House. On Friday, during the same press conference in which he downplayed the rise of white supremacism, he depicted immigration to the US as an "invasion". The remark came as he sought to justify declaring a national emergency to secure funds for a US-Mexico border wall. During his campaign for the presidency, Mr Trump called for a "total and complete shutdown" of Muslims entering the US and told supporters he would look at ways to "get rid of them" from the country. In 2017, after an anti-fascist activist was killed at a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, he refused to condemn far right violence and said there were "very fine people on both sides". Chinas premier has delivered the clearest acknowledgement yet from one of the country's senior officials that the economy is slowing and faces a series of difficulties. Li Keqiang, who as premier is Chinas second-highest official after President Xi Jinping, said at his annual news conference that the answer lies in cutting corporate taxes and deregulation, and not a return to the strategy during previous downturns of printing money and ramping up government spending. However, recently released economic data has suggested that the government is indeed turning to monetary expansion and heavy infrastructure investments in an effort to stabilise growth. Mr Li also became the most senior Chinese official to try to allay foreign worries that his nation's technology companies spy on other countries at Beijings request, saying that this has not happened and will not. He appeared to be addressing concerns that the United States and some of its allies have been raising about Huawei, the Chinese technology giant. Mr Li delivered his acknowledgement of the slowdown at an annual meeting with foreign and domestic reporters that the Chinese leadership often uses to outline its priorities to its people and the world. Mr Li and past premiers have sometimes used the event to offer reassurances that Beijing is tackling problems in an orderly way. World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty The leadership screens questions beforehand however, to ensure embarrassing or sensitive topics do not come up. For example, there were no questions this year about the governments roundup of as many as 1 million Uighurs and members of other Muslim minorities in internment camps in western China. Speaking in one of the cavernous chambers of the Great Hall of the People next to Tiananmen Square, Mr Li answered questions from the start about the economic slowdown, which has been a major preoccupation for many Chinese people since the summer. It is true that Chinas economy has encountered new downward pressure, he said in response to the first question asked. We must take strong measures to cope with the current downward pressure. Recommended Huawei preparing to sue US government over telecoms equipment ban As one example he cited the governments sharp cuts in corporate taxes, particularly for manufacturers, which were unveiled on 5 March. But he also tried to ease concerns that have spread since then about whether the tax cuts would lead to much wider government deficits. Mr Li said the government would demand that the state-owned banking sector and the countrys many state-owned enterprises turn over a greater share of their profits to Beijing. Our determination is to dig into existing interests, and this will be like turning a knife into the government itself, he said. However, accomplishing that could be politically difficult. The Communist Party relies heavily on state-owned and state-controlled banks and companies to help it maintain tight political control, to provide jobs for millions of party members and to cushion the effects of the economic slowdown on struggling regions, like northeastern China. China tries to keep its official budget deficit to less than 3 per cent of the countrys economic output, a goal it has openly copied from the European Unions rules for its member nations. But local governments have long borrowed money using shadowy financial vehicles and other ways to keep the loans off official books. China cuts BBC TV feed during discussion of Muslim detention camps Mr Li also tried to address concerns raised by the United States and some of its allies about whether Chinese tech companies like Huawei might use the equipment they install overseas to gather intelligence for the Chinese government. Chinas national intelligence law, adopted in 2017, says that, All organisations and citizens shall support, assist and cooperate with national intelligence efforts according to the law. But Mr Li strongly denied that the Chinese government asks Chinese companies to engage in spying. This is not consistent with Chinese law, this is not how China behaves, he said. We did not do that and we will not do that in the future. An hour before the news conference, the National Peoples Congress approved a new foreign investment law, the main legislation before it this year. The Trump administration has pressed China for the past year to put foreign businesses on a more equal legal footing with their Chinese competitors. Chinas legislature made some tweaks to the law before passing it, notably to exhort Chinese government agencies to do a better job of protecting corporate trade secrets. But foreign business groups which have long complained that Chinese officials and companies force them to give up their trade secrets in order to do business in China say the new law still does not go far enough. The laws provisions are still quite general and do not address a number of the persistent concerns of foreign companies or foreign-invested enterprises in China, said Timothy P Stratford, chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China and the managing partner of the Beijing office of the Covington and Burling law firm. The law may still leave foreign businesses at a legal disadvantage, especially with respect to state-owned enterprises and other Chinese businesses with strong state connections, he said. The law provides broad scope for national security reviews, he said. And the law has cursorily written provisions many are just a single sentence while giving broad latitude to Chinese regulators. Mr Li dismissed concerns about how China would implement the law. If we make a promise on opening up, we will certainly deliver, he said, later adding, We will treat both domestic and foreign-invested enterprises as equals. The New York Times A father has been hailed a hero for preventing more deaths by chasing the Christchurch gunman away from a mosque where he had already killed seven people. Abdul Aziz was praying at Linwood mosque in the quiet New Zealand city on Friday with his four sons when he heard gunshots outside. The 48-year-old told his children to stay inside as he picked up a credit card machine the first thing he could find and ran out of the building screaming come here at the gunman in a bid to distract him. Mr Aziz said he could hear his two youngest sons pleading with him to come back inside as he hurled the machine at the attacker who had returned to his car to get another gun. The gunman began shooting at Mr Aziz, but he managed to dodge between cars parked outside the mosque. New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Show all 11 1 /11 New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Zakaria Bhuiyan People gather hoping to find out information about Zakaria Bhuiyan who is still missing after the mosques shootings in Christchurch. David Moir/AFP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Mucad Ibrahim Three-year-old Mucad Ibrahim, the youngest known victim of the mass shooting at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, on 15 March 2019. Abdi Ibrahim via AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Nadeem Rasheed Nadeem Rasheed, brother of Pakistani Naeem Rashid who died alongside his son Talha Naeem, 21, who were killed in shooting at a Mosque in Christchurch, at their home town in Abbottabad, EPA New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Omar Nabi Omar Nabi speaks to the media about losing his father Haji Daoud Nabi, 71, in the mosque attack REUTERS New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Ash Mohammed Ash Mohammed, right, talks to a police officer about his father and two brothers who are missing near the Masjid Al Noor mosque AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Akhtar Khokhur Akhtar Khokhur, 58, shows a picture of her missing husband Mehaboobbhai Khokhar, 65. AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Wasseim Alsati A note is seen on a window of a door at the family home of Wasseim Alsati in Christchurch on 17 March 2019. AFP/Getty Images New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Haroon Mahmood Relatives offer condolences to nephew (centre) of Haroon Mahmood, a Pakistani citizen who was killed in Christchurch mosque shootings. AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Farid Ahmed Farid Ahmed (pictured) survived the Al Noor mosque shootings but his wife Husne was killed. AFP/Getty Images New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Syed Areeb Ahmed A relative shows a picture of Syed Areeb Ahmed, a Pakistani citizen who was killed the Christchurch mosque shooting. AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Naeem Rashid A relative looks at a picture on a mobile phone of Pakistani nationals Naeem Rashid and his son Talha Naeem (right) who died in the Christchurch shootings. AFP/Getty Images Mr Aziz said it was at this moment he spotted a gun abandoned by the attacker, who had once again run back to his car. He said he picked up the weapon and pulled the trigger and, after finding it empty, smashed it through the gunmans car window. He gets into his car and I just got the gun and threw it on his window like an arrow and blasted his window, said Mr Aziz. The windshield shattered; thats why he got scared. The father said the 28-year-old shouted that he would kill them all but quickly drove off. He said he chased the car down the street to a red light, before it performed a U-turn and sped away. Online videos suggest police officers managed to force the car from the road and drag the suspect out soon afterwards. Mr Aziz said he believed anyone would have done what he did if they were in his shoes. Originally from Kabul, Afghanistan, Mr Aziz said he left as a refugee when he was a child and lived for more than 25 years in Australia before moving to New Zealand a couple of years ago. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Ive been to a lot of countries and this is one of the beautiful ones, he said, adding that he had always thought New Zealand was peaceful. The gunman is believed to have killed 41 people at the Al Noor mosque before driving about three miles across town and attacking the Linwood mosque, where he killed seven more people. One person died later in a hospital. Among the victims were three-year-old Mucad Ibrahim, 14-year-old Sayyad Milne and a four-year-old child. White supremacist Brenton Tarrant, 28, has been charged with one count of murder and a judge said Saturday that it was reasonable to assume more charges would follow. Latef Alabi, the Linwood mosques acting imam, said the death toll would have been far higher at the Linwood mosque if it wasnt for Mr Azizs actions. He went after him, and he managed to overpower him, and thats how we were saved, he said. Otherwise, if he managed to come into the mosque, then we would all probably be gone. A man from Oldham has been arrested after posting a Facebook message which supported the New Zealand mosque terrorist attack, police said. The 24-year-old, who has not been named, was held on suspicion of sending malicious communications. Ffity people were killed and 48 more injured in shootings at two mosques in the city of Christchurch on Friday. A 28-year-old Australian, Brenton Tarrant, has since appeared in court charged with murder. Referring to the UK arrest, a statement released by Greater Manchester Police said the force "became aware of a post on social media making reference and support for the terrible events in New Zealand." It added: "Police have made urgent enquiries and a man aged 24 from the Oldham area is now under arrest on suspicion of sending malicious communications. New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Show all 11 1 /11 New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Zakaria Bhuiyan People gather hoping to find out information about Zakaria Bhuiyan who is still missing after the mosques shootings in Christchurch. David Moir/AFP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Mucad Ibrahim Three-year-old Mucad Ibrahim, the youngest known victim of the mass shooting at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, on 15 March 2019. Abdi Ibrahim via AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Nadeem Rasheed Nadeem Rasheed, brother of Pakistani Naeem Rashid who died alongside his son Talha Naeem, 21, who were killed in shooting at a Mosque in Christchurch, at their home town in Abbottabad, EPA New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Omar Nabi Omar Nabi speaks to the media about losing his father Haji Daoud Nabi, 71, in the mosque attack REUTERS New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Ash Mohammed Ash Mohammed, right, talks to a police officer about his father and two brothers who are missing near the Masjid Al Noor mosque AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Akhtar Khokhur Akhtar Khokhur, 58, shows a picture of her missing husband Mehaboobbhai Khokhar, 65. AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Wasseim Alsati A note is seen on a window of a door at the family home of Wasseim Alsati in Christchurch on 17 March 2019. AFP/Getty Images New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Haroon Mahmood Relatives offer condolences to nephew (centre) of Haroon Mahmood, a Pakistani citizen who was killed in Christchurch mosque shootings. AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Farid Ahmed Farid Ahmed (pictured) survived the Al Noor mosque shootings but his wife Husne was killed. AFP/Getty Images New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Syed Areeb Ahmed A relative shows a picture of Syed Areeb Ahmed, a Pakistani citizen who was killed the Christchurch mosque shooting. AP New Zealand shootings: Victims of Christchurch mosque terror attacks Naeem Rashid A relative looks at a picture on a mobile phone of Pakistani nationals Naeem Rashid and his son Talha Naeem (right) who died in the Christchurch shootings. AFP/Getty Images This is a very difficult time for people. The events in New Zealand have reverberated around the world. Many people are in deep shock and are worried. It is at times like this that, as a community, we stand together. Where the law permits and people cross the line, we will take robust action, which may include arrest and prosecution." The action comes as forces across the UK have been attending mosques this weekend to reassure congregations. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Assistant Chief Constable Russ Jackson, of GMP, said: It is clear that people are worried and we really understand that... It is truly terrible what happened yesterday. It is hard to put into any form of words." He added: "We have nothing to suggest any threat locally, but none of this can diminish how people feel and that is why we want to be there to offer more support at this difficult time. Italian prosecutors have launched a murder investigation after a key witness in former prime minister Silvio Berlusconis upcoming bribery trial died of suspected poisoning. Imane Fadil, 34, a Moroccan model who attended the media magnates notorious bunga bunga sex parties, was admitted to a Milan hospital last month with severe stomach pains. She told friends and her lawyer she believed she had been poisoned. Fadil died on 1 March, but her death was not announced until Friday. The doctors have not identified with any certainty any pathology which can explain the death, said Milans chief prosecutor, Francesco Greco. He said there were several anomalies in Fadils medical records. In pictures: Silvio Berlusconi's political career Show all 7 1 /7 In pictures: Silvio Berlusconi's political career In pictures: Silvio Berlusconi's political career 1994 The billionaire media tycoon wins elections with his Forza Italia (Go Italy) party, following a wave of anti-corruption investigations that decimate the old political order. He is forced to step down just months later after his coaltion partner pulls out. Getty In pictures: Silvio Berlusconi's political career 2001 Berlusconi wins elections for a second time after a powerful media campaign in which he promised to slash taxes and unemployment. He goes on to serve the longest stint as Prime Minister in Italy's post-war history Getty In pictures: Silvio Berlusconi's political career 2006 Berlusconi steps down after being narrowly defeated by a centre-left coalition led by Romano Prodi, right, a former president of the European Commission. Getty In pictures: Silvio Berlusconi's political career 2008 Mr Berlusconi wins a third election victory following the collapse of Mr Prodi's government due to internal disagreements over Italian troop deployments in Afghanistan Getty In pictures: Silvio Berlusconi's political career 2009 Veronica Lario, Silvio Berlusconi's wife, files for divorce and accuses her husband of cavorting with under age girls Getty In pictures: Silvio Berlusconi's political career 2011 Silvio Berlusconi steps down following a parliamentary revolt and a growing number of sex scandals and criminal investigations Getty In pictures: Silvio Berlusconi's political career 2013 Silvio Berlusconi is sentenced for having sex with a then under age 17-year-old prostitute nicknamed Ruby the Heart Stealer. He also loses a second and final appeal over a tax fraud conviction Getty According to Italian news agency Ansa, toxicology tests found the model had been killed by a mix of radioactive substances. Fadil gave evidence in the 2012 trial of Mr Berlusconi, who was accused of paying for sex with an underage prostitute. The model had been a regular guest at the former prime ministers parties, where she said young women stripped off while performing provocative pole dances. Mr Berlusconi was initially convicted of paying for sex with a 17-year-old girl and faced seven years in prison, but he was acquitted in 2015 after a judge ruled he could not have known the prostitute was underage. Magistrates have subsequently laid new charges against Mr Berlusconi and other defendants, accusing them of bribing women who attended the parties to prevent them telling the truth at the initial trial. Fadil was never accused of taking bribes and was expected to give evidence in the new case. In 2012, she said she feared for her safety after telling prosecutors she was offered money in exchange for her silence about what went on at the parties, which Mr Berlusconi claimed were elegant dinner parties. According to Italian media, Fadil had been writing a book about her experiences at the time of her death. Magistrates have reportedly obtained a copy of the manuscript to investigate whether it contains clues about her possible murder. Spain is heading into an election on 28 April with the divisions created by Catalonia's 2017 breakaway bid still raw -- and it is not just the rift between separatists and the state that is shaping this campaign. Catalan society itself is split down the middle, much like Brexit in the UK, and, in the rest of the country, tension is boiling between those backing reconciliation and hardliners demanding central government wield its power. Investors will be rooting for a clear outcome and a stable government after more than three years with a paralysed executive. Yet the Catalan crisis has triggered an outburst of nationalism that has spawned a new party, Vox. For the first time, Spain has five significant parties to watch -- two of them with a populist origin story. Complicating the process of coalition building is the fact that parties are split along ideological lines, as well as on Catalonia. That has made the position of Catalonia's non-separatist Ciudadanos party, a potential kingmaker straddling both worlds, much more difficult. Strikers light fires and clash with police in Catalonia Show all 11 1 /11 Strikers light fires and clash with police in Catalonia Strikers light fires and clash with police in Catalonia Police officers work to remove burning tires that were placed in the road by demonstrators during Catalonia's General Strike AP Strikers light fires and clash with police in Catalonia Police officers work to remove burning tires that were placed in the road by demonstrators during Catalonia's General Strike AP Strikers light fires and clash with police in Catalonia Police officers remove demonstrators who are blocking a road in Barcelona during Catalonia's General Strike AP Strikers light fires and clash with police in Catalonia Police officers remove demonstrators who are blocking a road in Barcelona during Catalonia's General Strike AP Strikers light fires and clash with police in Catalonia Police officers remove demonstrators who are blocking a road in Barcelona during Catalonia's General Strike AP Strikers light fires and clash with police in Catalonia Graffiti reads 'February 21st National Strike' during the Catalan general strike EPA Strikers light fires and clash with police in Catalonia Police officers remove demonstrators who are blocking a road in Barcelona during Catalonia's General Strike AP Strikers light fires and clash with police in Catalonia Police officers remove demonstrators who are blocking a road in Barcelona during Catalonia's General Strike AP Strikers light fires and clash with police in Catalonia Police officers remove demonstrators who are blocking a road in Barcelona during Catalonia's General Strike AP Strikers light fires and clash with police in Catalonia Police officers remove demonstrators who are blocking a road in Barcelona during Catalonia's General Strike AP Strikers light fires and clash with police in Catalonia Police officers work to remove burning tires that were placed in the road by demonstrators during Catalonia's General Strike Reuters Here's an overview of the key players. The Socialists Prime minister Pedro Sanchez's efforts to repair divisions over Catalonia's push for independence has taken up most of his nine-month tenure. His harshest opponents label him a traitor because he needed the separatists' votes to win last year's no-confidence vote. While in office Mr Sanchez issued a raft of decrees on socially progressive issues, snatching potential voters from his left-leaning parliamentary ally, the anti-austerity Podemos. They include increasing paternity leave, tracking gender pay gaps and populating his Cabinet with a record number of women. Podemos Podemos burst onto the Spanish political scene in 2014 in the wake of the financial crisis. Its promises to delay the pace of deficit reduction, subsidise public transport for the poor and increase taxes for the rich were a hit with voters worn down by high unemployment and cost-cutting. The party's latest proposals include capping the working week at 35 hours and providing economic assistance for victims of gender violence. The party backed Catalonia's right to hold a referendum on independence, although it said the vote would not be binding. Leader Pablo Iglesias angered the right-of-centre parties by meeting with jailed separatist leaders last year. Ciudadanos The party born in Catalonia has made confronting separatists its raison d'etre. It surged in popularity by demanding harsher measures to contain the revolt while then-prime minister Mariano Rajoy dithered. On social issues, its policies do not differ much from the Socialists. The party proposes free school books, increased financing for universities and student grants and to gradually increase the duration of paternity leave as well as fighting against gender violence. People's Party Mr Rajoy was slammed from all sides as he tried to contain the Catalan uprising following an illegal referendum, eventually invoking emergency powers to rule the region from Madrid. Pablo Casado, now at the helm of the party, vows to suspend Catalonia's autonomy. The PP has long been the bastion of conservative, Catholic values in Spain. Threatened by the rise of Vox, Mr Casado has been trying to compete with the insurgent by adopting a stance against abortion and immigration while trying to keep business on side with tax-cut promises. Vox The new kid on the block, Vox surged in popularity in Andalusia's regional elections in December by taking the hardest line on Catalan independence. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events On social issues, Vox wants to rescind a 2004 gender violence law, arguing that it discriminates against men. It seeks to ban the use of the public health system for abortion and sex-change surgery and would deport undocumented immigrants, as well as those with papers who commit serious crimes. The Washington Post Yellow vest protesters hurled stones at police officers, ransacked shops along the Champs-Elysees and set fire to a bank, as Paris saw its 18th consecutive weekend of protests. Police fired tear gas and water cannons at the anti-government demonstrators after the protests turned violent. Firefighters rescued two people from a burning bank, with 11 people suffering minor injuries in the blaze. Two news stands on the avenue also caught fire, as bonfires burned in the streets. By late afternoon police officers had arrested around 120 protesters. A number of demonstrators ransacked the high-end Fouquet's restaurant and clashed with riot police in front of the Arc de Triomphe. 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 After weeks of relative calm and dwindling protester numbers, around 10,000 people are thought to have marched in Paris this Saturday, compared with just 2,800 a week ago. Elsewhere in France, protesters were estimated at 4,500, compared with 4,200 last week. Christophe Castaner, France's interior minister, said that although the Paris protest was relatively small, there were more than 1,500 "ultra violent" people out looking for trouble. "They decided, perhaps as a swansong, to come attack - and I use their words - Paris," he said, adding more than 1,400 police officers were mobilised. "I've given instructions to the police this morning for great firmness so that nothing slips by." The protesters had promised to draw bigger numbers to mark the fourth month since the anti-government movement erupted in mid November, over since-scrapped fuel tax hikes and the high cost of living. Named after vests French drivers have to keep in their cars, the revolt has now swelled into a broader movement against Emmanuel Macron and his economic reforms. Paris was hit by some of the worst riots in decades in December, after the yellow vest demonstrations led to looting and vandalism. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events But the protests, held each Saturday in cities and towns across France, have been getting smaller. After the spike in violence, Mr Macron offered a package of concessions worth more than 10 billion euros (8.5b) aimed at boosting the incomes of the poorest workers and pensioners. His government ordered police to crack down on the protests in January, leading to complaints of police brutality. The 41-year-old former investment banker also launched a series of national debates which are aimed at determining what policies people want the government to focus on. Saturday's protests coincide with the end of the debates. Additional reporting by agencies The Australian government has banned Milo Yiannopoulos from touring the country after he posted appalling comments about Islam in response to the mosque shootings in Christchurch, New Zealand this week. The move comes just a week after Australia's immigration minister David Coleman had personally approved the far-right commentator's visa, against the advice of the home affairs department, which said he may fail the character test to enter Australia. Mr Yiannopoulos was scheduled to visit Australia in 2019 for a speaking tour. But after he posted on Facebook about the deadly massacre at two mosques in Christchurch which claimed the lives of 49 people, the Australian government swiftly responded by cancelling his visa. Australian national Brenton Tarrant has been charged with murder and remanded in custody. Mr Yiannopoulos suggested the killings happened because the establishment panders to and mollycoddles extremist leftism and barbaric, alien religious cultures. World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty Reversing his earlier decision, Australian immigration minister David Coleman said in a statement Mr Yiannopoulos victim-blaming comments on Facebook are appalling and foment hatred and division. Mr Yiannopoulos was approved for the visa despite concerns raised by the Home Affairs department who said the far-right commentator failed the character test required to enter the country. Mr Yiannopoulos confirmed he was banned from Australia on Facebook. Im banned from Australia, again, after a statement in which I said I abhor political violence, he said, disregarding how his comments were perceived as bigoted and insensitive. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Some Australian lawmakers publicly welcomed the news Mr Yiannopoulos has been banned from their country. Labour MP Tony Burke applauded the decision to implement the ban on Twitter. Milo banned. Good. His overnight comments werent that different from how he has always behaved, Mr Burke tweeted. He added: There was already enough evidence to ban him which is why the department had already recommended he be banned. The Australian tours for the worlds hate speakers must stop. Over a million illegal cigarettes were seized in Dublin Port on Thursday. Revenue seized the cigarettes which had been smuggled into Dublin Port, during routine examinations of freight from Rotterdam. The unstamped cigarettes were discovered thanks to Revenue detector dog, Kelly, and the government customs agency's mobile x-ray scanner. The seized cigarettes were branded 'Marlboro' and have a retail value of almost 500,000, representing a potential loss to the Exchequer of 422,000. The seizure follows another confiscation earlier in the week which saw 7,800 unstamped cigarettes and 20kgs of tobacco taken from a private residence in Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford. The products, which had a combined retail value of 16,500 were taken along with a car that was at the scene. Investigations into the latest seizure are ongoing. Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) deputy leader Nigel Dodds, speaks to the media outside the Cabinet Office, in London, Britain March 15, 2019. REUTERS/Henry Nicholls The deputy leader of the DUP Nigel Dodds has said his party did not discuss further cash for Northern Ireland during meetings with senior cabinet ministers on Friday. Speaking after DUP MPs had "significant discussions" with the UK government, including with Chancellor Philip Hammond, Mr Dodds said further funds for Northern Ireland was not discussed. The DUP's confidence and supply agreement, which currently props up Theresa May's Conservative government, comes to an end in June. The agreement has seen 1.7b given to Northern Ireland on the basis the DUP supports the government's agenda in the House of Commons. Expand Close Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) deputy leader Nigel Dodds, speaks to the media outside the Cabinet Office, in London, Britain March 15, 2019. REUTERS/Henry Nicholls / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) deputy leader Nigel Dodds, speaks to the media outside the Cabinet Office, in London, Britain March 15, 2019. REUTERS/Henry Nicholls Mr Dodds said: "The Chancellor of the Exchequer is obviously a key member of the Government but he is also responsible for HMRC and the whole issue of their involvement in customs and other regulatory issues is a key concern for us." Other ministers involved in the talks included David Lidington, Michael Gove and Julian Smith, he said. Mr Dodds continued: "We are not discussing cash in these discussions." He said the Government was now "very focused" on addressing the issue of the backstop. "From day one, our focus has been on the red line of how Northern Ireland is treated separately from the rest of the UK. "That is the issue that has been the priority concern for us." Expand Close Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) deputy leader Nigel Dodds, walks across Downing Street in central London, Britain March 15, 2019. REUTERS/Henry Nicholls / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) deputy leader Nigel Dodds, walks across Downing Street in central London, Britain March 15, 2019. REUTERS/Henry Nicholls Asked if it was likely a Brexit deal could be agreed in the UK Parliament next week, the North Belfast MP said: "We have always said we want to get a deal but it has to be the right deal. "We were very disappointed when the Attorney General made his statement on Tuesday to the house that he was not able to indicate any change and that the Prime Minister's documents that she brought back were not sufficient." He added: "We want to get a deal. There has been progress made but I think now the government is very focused on ensuring the issue of the Irish backstop, the separation of Northern Ireland from the rest of the UK, that that is addressed. "From day one our focus has been on the red line of how Northern Ireland is treated separately from the rest of the UK. That is the issue that is the priority issue for us." Mr Dodds said the DUP was never within the school of thought that "no deal is the best deal". Asked about the talks between the DUP and the British government, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he believes Arlene Foster's party do not want a no-deal Brexit. He said he had an opportunity to meet Ms Foster in Washington. "I got to hear her perspective and she heard mine. "I certainly have the sense that the DUP would like the UK to leave the European Union with a deal, that they don't want no deal either. "At the moment they're in discussions with the British government about how they might approach the next vote but they're discussions that I'm not party to." Support from the DUP could lead to Mrs May's deal being approved by the Commons next week, after it was defeated for the second time on Tuesday. It comes as European leaders consider whether to agree to UK calls for Britain's departure to be delayed. MPs backed a bid to push-back Brexit beyond the scheduled date of March 29 in dramatic parliamentary scenes which saw a majority of the Conservative party in the opposite lobby from the Prime Minister. British Prime Minister Theresa May is expected to learn this weekend the ultimate price of passing her Brexit divorce deal as the DUP outlines its final demands. The Northern Ireland unionist party, on whom Mrs May relies for a parliamentary majority, has signalled it may be on the cusp of backing her deal. But talks are due to continue all weekend to secure a breakthrough. A change of heart by Arlene Foster's party would be seen as key to unlocking a large majority of the European Research Group (ERG) in the Tory party in order to get the deal passed at a third meaningful vote on Mrs May's Withdrawal Agreement, believed to be scheduled for early next week. It is believed that if the DUP gets behind the deal on this occasion, Mrs May is in with a real chance of getting a majority in parliament to vote through the proposed deal, which has been rejected twice already. The DUP - which has become unlikely kingmaker in Westminster since the snap election in 2017 - met yesterday with a string of senior Tory ministers. They included UK Chancellor for the Exchequer Philip Hammond, fuelling speculation that it will make a fresh cash demand for Northern Ireland as part of a package to secure its support. The 2017 confidence and supply deal which underpins Mrs May's government was signed by the DUP after a sweetener of 1bn (1.17bn) in extra funding for Northern Ireland was pledged. Nigel Dodds, the DUP's Westminster leader, said talks had been "constructive" and the government was focused on resolving the Irish backstop issue. Mr Dodds insisted there had been no discussions about "cash", but sources suggested billions could be on offer at a later stage. Ministers said yesterday they were increasingly optimistic that the DUP could be persuaded to back the deal. Asked about the talks, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he believes Arlene Foster's party does not want a no-deal Brexit. He said he had an opportunity to meet Ms Foster in Washington. "I got to hear her perspective and she heard mine. "I certainly have the sense that the DUP would like the UK to leave the European Union with a deal. "At the moment they're in discussions with the British government about how they might approach the next vote but they're discussions that I'm not party to." Securing the support of the Northern Irish MPs is viewed as crucial to Mrs May winning the third vote on her agreement next week. BRITISH and Northern Irish consumers may face extra charges after Brexit for using credit and debit cards in the EU if the UK leaves the bloc without a withdrawal agreement or implementation period. It's yet another potential blow for consumers already facing the prospect of higher prices for goods if a hard Brexit goes ahead this month. "In the event that the UK leaves the European Union without a withdrawal agreement or implementation period, credit and debit card transactions with UK payment cards in EU member states could become more expensive and surcharges may be applied," UK Minister of State Michael Bates said. He said this was because "the UK would be treated as a third country in relation to the EU". He added: "As the second Payment Services Directive, which currently bans surcharging for consumer credit and debit cards issued in EU Member States, would no longer apply to UK payment cards, any changes would be a result of the laws of individual EU Member States." John Comer, the former ICMSA president from Mayo, has joined a long line of farm union leaders having a shot at national politics. On Friday in Longford, Fianna Fail delegates from the sprawling constituency of Midlands North West will choose their candidate for the forthcoming European Parliament elections on May 24. This constituency is some beast of a creation. It comprises Connacht, the three Republic counties of Ulster, and a chunk of North Leinster. Fianna Fail's original thinking was that sitting TDs would not stand in this Euro contest. Now that idea has gone by the wayside as former Agriculture Minister Brendan Smith of Cavan, Galway East TD Anne Rabbitte and former Donegal TD Niall Blaney, are all cited as potential candidates. That makes things difficult for Mr Comer, the first Connacht farm leader to head the ICMSA. But we hear he's holding tough and he has pitched his case in terms of rural and provincial Ireland, on grounds that the strong towns all across this swathe of country are interlinked with the farmlands both socially and economically. "I was never a quitter and I believe voters should have the widest available choice in any political contest," he told the Farming Independent. Comer, like most Irish farm leaders, already knows his way around the EU machine. He has maintained contact with Brussels via membership of the Economic and Social Committee which groups employers, unions, farmers and social organisations, and meets frequently in the EU capital, offering a huge volume of information to its members. Farm union leaders down the years have played a strong role in Irish political life dating back to this State's foundation when they had their own political party. More recently, TJ Maher was an Independent MEP for the old Munster Constituency from 1979 until 1994. He was a very high-profile president of the IFA from the late 1960s. But like John Comer, his pitch was also towards rural communities and small town dwellers. In many ways TJ Maher, who died in 2002 just days short of his 80th birthday, blazed a trail for a new generation of farm activists turned politicians. In 1989 he was joined by another former IFA president, Paddy Lane, who came from the Limerick-Clare border and sported the Fianna Fail colours, serving one term in the European Parliament. He was followed in the Brussels/Strasbourg assembly by a third IFA leader, Alan Gillis of Kildare/Wicklow, who represented Fine Gael from 1994 until 1999. Alan Gillis led the IFA in difficult years from 1990 until 1994 which saw huge CAP changes. Soon after he was followed into national politics by another IFA man, Tom Parlon of Offaly, who won a seat for the Progressive Democrats in 2002 and was junior minister responsible for the OPW. These days he lobbies for the builders' organisation, CIF. Most farm leaders turned politicians have been IFA people. But we're not forgetting Jackie Cahill, a former ICMSA president, now a dogged Fianna Fail TD for Tipperary, and a predecessor of John Comer's. John Downing is an Irish Independent political correspondent Targeted: The global logistics firm was hit by a cyber-attack last year Pre-tax losses at the Irish arm of logistics firm TNT Express more than doubled last year to 2.2m after its parent suffered a 'crippling' cyber-attack. Accounts filed by Dublin based TNT Express (Ireland) Ltd show that the company's losses increased by 131pc in the 12 months to the end of May last. Revenues at the Irish arm declined by 31pc from 52.59m to 36m and the drop is explained by the prior period being for 17 months. The year under review coincided with a cyber-attack on TNT Express globally that cost the business $400m (353m) in 2018. The cyber-attack, known as NotPetya, occurred on June 27, 2017, and involved the spread of an information systems virus through a Ukrainian tax software product. The directors' report for the Irish arm said that "no data breach or data loss to third parties is known to have occurred". Last year, the firm's costs increased by 224,600, paid for "compensation for loss of office' in directors' costs". Director Ronald Judge resigned on January 2, 2018, and directors Brian Gallagher resigned on June 15, 2018. Numbers employed overall fell from 154 to 135. Fears: ACCA claims rules will make it easier to smuggle across the border Revenue practices will make it easier for cross-border smugglers to operate if there is a hard Brexit, according to accountancy group ACCA Ireland. And the group has even accused Revenue of acting unlawfully in the way it issues tax adviser numbers (TAINs), saying that it is faciliating "large numbers of unqualified people providing accounting, tax and customs advice to businesses". Revenue strongly refuted the suggestion that it is breaking the law. "Revenue has no legal role or authority in respect of the regulation of the accounting profession or those providing advice as tax agents," a spokesperson said. "The engagement of an agent or adviser to assist in the management of tax issues is a matter for each taxpayer to consider and to satisfy oneself as to the credentials of that individual. "The provision of a TAIN number is simply an administrative facility that allows the nominated representative to engage with Revenue and to receive copies of relevant correspondence and notifications in an efficient manner. The TAIN is only issued on foot of a specific written instruction from the individual taxpayer." ACCA Ireland, a body for chartered certified accountants, said its interpretation of the law was that unqualified accountants were supposed to be supervised for anti-money laundering by the Irish Government and that Revenue was breaching the rules in giving them TAINs. It said this opened a loophole for smugglers to operate more easily in the context of Brexit. Separately Revenue figures show that the number of firms seeking "authorised economic operator" status has soared. The status will make it cross-border trade easier after Brexit. Hollywood actor Liam Neeson and his late actress wife Natasha Richardson pictured with developer Garrett Kelleher were enlisted to attend a glitzy launch for the initial project over a decade ago Irish developer Garrett Kelleher has seen a $1.2bn (1.05bn) case his firm took against the National Asset Management Agency (Nama) dismissed by a US court. The judge overseeing the case agreed with the agency that Nama could not be subject to the jurisdiction of the Chicago court in the case. A Nama spokesman said the agency was pleased with the outcome. A company owned by Mr Kelleher had sued Nama in the high profile case related to the planned Spire project in Chicago. His firm had alleged that Nama had ruined his chances of successfully developing what would have been a landmark residential scheme. The Irish Independent revealed last year that a US asset management firm had claimed in court papers in the case that former Taoiseach John Bruton had agreed to act as a liaison between it and Nama while the US firm tried to buy loans linked to the 116-storey Spire project. Mr Bruton denied the claim. Mr Kelleher's plans to develop the Spire in 2007 and 2008 coincided with the global economic meltdown. The building was to feature about 1,200 exclusive apartments. Liam Neeson and his late wife Natasha Richardson were enlisted to attend a glitzy launch for the project. The initial development of the scheme, with construction of foundations having begun in 2007 but halted in 2008, was bankrolled by Anglo Irish Bank to the tune of $69m (61m). With interest, the amount owed later topped $90m (79m). The Anglo loans had been personally guaranteed by Mr Kelleher. His Shelbourne companies had already injected $225m (198m) of equity into the Spire project. At the time, companies owned either directly or indirectly by Mr Kelleher owed about $510m (450m) of debt to Anglo, which he had personally guaranteed either all or part of. His companies owned an additional $600m to Irish banks. But in 2013, Nama offered the Chicago Spire loans for sale and eventually sold them with Mr Kelleher's personal guarantees still attached, the US court heard. A lawyer for Mr Kelleher's Shelbourne North Water Street Corporation told the Chicago court last year in the case against Nama that continuing the development of the Spire would have been the most economically advantageous way for Mr Kelleher's Shelbourne companies to pay back money owed to banks. Shelbourne North Water Street Corporation claimed that, at the time of loan sale, it had the contractual right and the ability to buy those loans at par. It claimed that Nama improperly prevented it from redeeming its loans. Nama and the National Asset Loan Management, which was also sued by Mr Kelleher's company in the case, contended that because they are agents of a foreign state, they are immune from prosecution in the US under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act. (CNN) The man charged with murder in connection with the mass shootings at two mosques in New Zealand that left at least 49 people dead appeared in court Saturday. Brenton Harrison Tarrant, 28, appeared before a Christchurch district judge dressed in a white prison jumpsuit. He has been charged with one count of murder, according to a court filing. The name of the victim has been withheld by the court. Tarrant was silent during his court appearance. He was remanded in custody to reappear in court April 5. The courtroom was closed to the public because of the heightened security risk, New Zealand police said. While Tarrant is facing only one charge, New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush said additional charges are forthcoming. The suspect is an an Australian citizen who was living in the southern city of Dunedin at the time of the attack, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said. Dunedin is about 225 miles from Christchurch. Tarrant was one of three people arrested in connection with the shootings. The other two remain in custody but their role in the shootings remains unclear. A fourth person who had been taken into custody was later determined to be an armed bystander who wanted help police. The unprecedented attack, which was apparently broadcast live for a time on social media, shocked the usually peaceful nation. Ardern labeled the carnage a terrorist attack and has vowed to change the country's gun laws as a result. The shooter, who had a gun license acquired in November 2017, carried out the killings with two semi-automatic weapons, two shotguns and a lever-action firearm, Ardern said. "While work is being done as to the chain of events that lead to both the holding of this gun license and the possession of these weapons, I can tell you one thing right now -- our gun laws will change," she told reporters. "It's the time for change," said Ardern, who had earlier called Friday one of her country's "darkest days" and described the suspects as holding "extremist views" that have no place in New Zealand or the world. Ardern said the suspect traveled around the world and was in New Zealand sporadically. He had no criminal history in New Zealand or Australia, and had not drawn the attention of the intelligence community for extremist views. The Prime Minister was traveling from Wellington to Christchurch on Saturday alongside other politicians, including the opposition leader. "As is the entire nation, we are all unified in grieving together," she told reporters. Bush, the police commissioner, said authorities were investigating the suspects' ties to shootings that occurred as Muslims convened for Friday prayers, the busiest time for many mosques around the world. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison called the massacre the work of an "extremist right-wing, violent terrorist." The suspected shooter livestreamed video of the attack and posted a lengthy manifesto online under the name of Brenton Tarrant. In the manifesto, he identifies himself as a white man, born in Australia, and lists the white nationalists who have inspired him. Ardern urged the public not to share the "distressing" 17-minute video. Police said they were not searching for any other suspects but stressed the investigation remained fluid. None of those arrested in the attacks had been on any security watch lists prior to the attack. In addition to the 49 killed, authorities said 48 people were wounded, many of them seriously. Some of the injured were young children with gunshot wounds. One worshiper who said he was inside one of the mosques said he heard the gunman "continuously shooting for 10 to 15 minutes." Attack apparently broadcast live on social media Authorities declined to discuss potential motives for the attack. But the 87-page manifesto posted on social media just before the shooting began was filled with anti-immigrant, anti-Muslim screeds and explanations for an attack. It was not signed. Police said they were aware of a video shared online and broadcast live during the attack, which apparently showed a gunman walking into a mosque and opening fire. "We would strongly urge that the (video) link not be shared. We are working to have any footage removed," New Zealand police said. The brazen nature of the broadcast, and the apparent failure of tech companies to prevent its proliferation online, raised concerns. In New Zealand, commentators also worried that the horror would sow deep divisions in a society that has largely avoided the polarizations that have spread elsewhere. Facebook New Zealand spokesperson Mia Garlick said in a statement that the footage was quickly taken down. "New Zealand Police alerted us to a video on Facebook shortly after the livestream commenced and we removed both the shooter's Facebook account and the video. We're also removing any praise or support for the crime and the shooter or shooters as soon as we're aware," she said. CNN has not been able to independently confirm any information about the attackers or the the alleged video at this stage. A spokesperson for Google and YouTube called the shooting a "terrible tragedy," adding in a statement: "Shocking, violent and graphic content has no place on our platforms, and is removed as soon as we become aware of it. As with any major tragedy, we will work cooperatively with the authorities." Twitter removed an account it believed was linked to the main suspect and was working to keep the video of the incident off its platform, a spokesperson said. "We are deeply saddened by the shootings in Christchurch today," Twitter said in a statement. "Twitter has rigorous processes and a dedicated team in place for managing exigent and emergency situations such as this. We also cooperate with law enforcement to facilitate their investigations as required." Australian Prime Minister Morrison said he asked for flags to be flown at half-staff out of respect for those killed. "Australians stand with all New Zealanders today during this dark time where hate and violence has stolen their peace and innocence. Kia kaha (stay strong)," Morrison tweeted earlier, using a Maori phrase. US President Donald Trump said in a tweet: "My warmest sympathy and best wishes goes out to the people of New Zealand after the horrible massacre in the Mosques. 49 innocent people have so senselessly died, with so many more seriously injured. The U.S. stands by New Zealand for anything we can." IEDs found in vehicle Armed officers were deployed after first receiving reports of the shootings at 1:40 p.m. local time, when mosques were packed for Friday prayers. Police said 41 people were killed at the al Noor mosque on Deans Avenue. Seven died at the Linwood mosque on Linwood Avenue, and one died in the hospital from injuries. Two improvised explosive devices were found in a vehicle connected to the attack. A number of weapons were also recovered at both locations. The area was placed on lockdown, and police urged Christchurch residents to stay indoors and monitor the police website and social media. Worshipers were urged to stay away from all mosques in New Zealand. Later in the day, authorities evacuated properties close to a "location of interest" in Dunedin. Victims hail from across the globe Much remains unknown about the victims, but they appear to have hailed from around the world. At least two Jordanian citizens were killed and five others wounded in the shootings, according to a statement from Jordan's Foreign Ministry on Friday. A 5-year-old girl was critically wounded and had surgery but remained in serious condition, her uncle, Sabri al-Daraghmeh, told Jordan's al-Mamlaka TV. She was shot in the face, the abdomen and the leg. Al-Daraghmeh told the station that his brother was also wounded and remained in stable condition. He was shot in the abdomen and the leg. Four Pakistani citizens were also wounded, Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad Faisal said Friday on his official Twitter account. Five other Pakistanis citizens were still unaccounted for, he said. Gunman opened fire 'for 10 to 15 minutes' One worshiper, Mohan Ibn Ibrahim, said he was inside one of the mosques when the shooting began. He said he heard the gunman "continuously shooting for 10 to 15 minutes." "It's a big mosque and there were more than 200 people inside. The gunmen came from the back side. Gunshots went on for a long time. We had to jump the wall to escape. I saw lots of broken glass and bricks on the backside of the mosque," he said. "I came to the street, I saw one person got shot on his chest," he said, adding that the ambulance and police then arrived on the scene. He said that he had a friend in another mosque in the area who told him a gunman had opened fire there as well and five people were dead. "I could not contact two of my friends who are in the mosque as well," he said. Another witness, who did not want to be named, said he was driving and saw a man with a "with his 3- or 4-year-old daughter" who had been shot in the back. "He was screaming, like, get her to the hospital," he said. "I just got my truck and loaded up him, and his daughter, and this other guy had been shot in the leg, and took them to the hospital," he said. One man outside the mosque said that he prayed that the gunman would "run out of bullets." "I was thinking that he must run out bullets you know, so what I did was basically waiting and praying to God, oh God please let this guy run out of bullets," he said. He said a man told him to remain still and then the gunman shot the man "straight in the chest." This story was first published on CNN.com, "Suspect in mass shootings at mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, appears in court" Bangladesh historically enjoys good ties with China. The beginning of their relations dates back more than 2,000 years and was brought about primarily by the Silk Road. Both countries have long shared deep political, economic and people-to-people ties that have transformed in recent years into their current strategic partnership. China is Bangladesh's largest trade partner and is also a major development partner in the building of infrastructure such as roads, highways, railways, airports and power plants. Bangladesh is also one of the major recipients of China's foreign aid. In addition, Bangladesh is geographically located in a strategically important position that is considered a bridge between South and South East Asia. This area has grown increasingly important to China vis-a-vis its efforts to realize the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) that Bangladesh has endorsed and been reaping dividends since 2016. Against such a backdrop, any decisive and major developments in any of the two countries can easily influence each other. The second session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) and the second session of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) , briefly called "Two Sessions," reaffirmed the importance of this strategic relationship. The commitments by the Chinese leadership in the sessions to step up global cooperation under the BRI have come as a big boon for Bangladesh as one of the important partners of the initiative. Bangladesh is determined and has made significant strides towards becoming a Middle Income Country (MIC) by 2021 to mark the 50th anniversary of its independence. However, to reach this goal, the South Asian nation has to raise and maintain its gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate to 7.5-8 percent every year (up from the current 7 percent). The BRI is a timely and essential tool for Bangladesh to achieve that. Economists are of the view that to ensure the optimum rate of its GDP growth, Bangladesh must bring in more investment, boost exports and increase remittance inflows, which are major driving forces of its current economy. The BRI has a lot to contribute in these three areas. To increase its investment to the optimum level, Bangladesh must improve its infrastructure, which incidentally is also one of the major components of the BRI. When it comes to boosting exports, the same holds true, bearing in mind that without adequate infrastructure it is impossible to diversify exports and explore new markets for them. In this regard, the BRI is a blessing for Bangladesh as it requires more than US$24 billion in infrastructure spending every year to become an MIC. As part of infrastructural improvement, Bangladesh also requires upgrades in its service providing systems and Information Communication Technology (ICT) is the best option for it. Though the South Asian nation has progressed a long way in digitization under the slogan "Digital Bangladesh," it still has a lot to learn from China, especially from its experience as the second largest economy of the world. As China is now more determined to promote internet connectivity and collaboration on building technology transfer platforms among BRI countries, Bangladesh can take this opportunity to forge meaningful and multi-faceted cooperation with the East Asian nation and its BRI partners in the future. Another benefit of the initiative is that it opens the doors for Bangladesh to explore alternative markets for its export goods as the BRI will establish more connectivity among Asian nations. At present, Western countries are the main destinations for Bangladeshi exports. Bangladesh has to produce high quality professionals and workers to boost remittances from abroad. This is made more possible under the BRI cooperation, which will help more Bangladeshi students receive world-class education and training in China as well as get jobs in BRI partner countries. To ensure sustainable development, Bangladesh must create better jobs for its youths especially since more than 2 million of them enter the job market every year. The BRI can be a big boon to these aspirants as it can create a huge number of jobs with its major projects at home and abroad. The BRI can bring more opportunities and privileges to boost the economy of Bangladesh. This will result in the overall advancement of the country and its people as the economic betterment will help to improve other indicators of the human development including health and education. China's "Two Sessions" have really brought some good news for Bangladesh under the cover of the BRI this year. The author is the diplomatic correspondent with the Daily Sun, Bangladesh. Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors only, not necessarily those of China.org.cn. If you would like to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at opinion@china.org.cn. Crisis: Linda Murray with her children Elle (4) and Savannah (3) at her play centre in Navan, Co Meath Photo: Steve Humphreys Frustration has been expressed by campaigners for insurance reform at what they claim is a lack of commitment from the Government. The Alliance for Insurance Reform said it was dismayed at the admission from minster with responsibility for insurance reform Michael DArcy that plans to set up a Garda fraud unit have made no progress. The fraud unit was proposed in a Government report and insurers have committed funds to it. It was to be modelled on a similar unit in London which has funding from the insurance industry but is operationally independent from the industry. But Mr DArcy has repeatedly shot down the idea of an insurance industry funded Garda unit dedicated to tackling exaggerated and false personal injury claims. This stance has been backed up by Garda Commissioner Drew Harrison. The latest plan is for a dedicated insurance fraud unit to be set up within An Garda Siochana, funded by the State. Alliance director and play centre owner Linda Murray said the Garda fraud unit has been Government policy for over two years now. It has been planned in meticulous detail by An Garda Siochana but has already been delayed by a year-long cost-benefit analysis and a pointless debate over how it should be funded. Meanwhile, play and activity centres all over Ireland deal with exaggerated and misleading claims with no help from the State and are closing down at a rate of one a week as their insurance premiums rocket. Minister DArcy warned insurance companies in the Dail this week he will not accept their repeatedly loading premiums on businesses while at the same time generating significant profits. He was referring to revelations in the Irish Independent that three major insurers had made a combined profit of over 200m last year, at a time when businesses were seeking premiums shoot up. He accused these companies are having their cake and eating it. He called on insurance firms to give policyholders a break because continued price increases risk closing down many businesses with major concerns for civil society as we currently know. Q: I redid my driveway in 2017 at a cost of around 4,900, excludingVat. A friend told me to look up the Home Renovation Incentive Scheme as I may be able to get tax back on some of the costs. But I read recently that the scheme has been scrapped. So I am wondering if I can still apply? A: Budget 2019 didn't set out any provision for the continuation of the Home Renovation Incentive Scheme (HRI), and so the scheme expired at the end of 2018. However, you can still apply for the tax credit for work completed going back four years, according to the commercial director of Taxback.com, Eileen Devereux. The HRI scheme entitles you to claim a tax credit of 13.5pc of the total cost of certain repairs, renovations and home improvements. At first glance, the building costs of your driveway renovation would come under the financial criteria for a HRI rebate, which stipulates that project costs must fall between a minimum of 4,405 (before Vat at 13.5pc) or a maximum of 30,000 (before Vat). Renovations must be carried out by a qualifying contractor. This means they must have been Vat and RCT (Relevant Contracts Tax) registered at the time of the works. The qualifying contractor must enter the details of the work through HRI online and also the details of payment. One further point to note is that your local property tax (LPT) payments must be up to date in order to qualify, unless you are a local authority tenant. Q: My boyfriend and I have just applied for our first mortgage. We have got a deposit together and we thought we were all set. The lender has come back and said there's a "red flag" on my credit rating, an issue with a mobile phone provider from years ago. This has since been resolved and it wasn't even my fault. Is there anything at all I can do to fix this? A: If you feel that the issue was not your fault and the phone company is misreporting your credit history, then you should make a formal complaint in writing to the phone company that is misreporting your credit history and ask the company to rectify the same. That's the advice of the general manager of Mortgages4Her.ie Sinead Buckley. If the company corrects it then the problem is solved. However, if you cannot correct your credit history, as the issue is more than two years ago, then some lenders are open to considering your application on a case-by-case basis. All lenders will consider the application once the issue is more than five years ago. Ms Buckley's advice is to set out the situation in a detailed note and send it along with a copy of your credit history (which can be obtained from www.icb.ie), as well as a closing statement of the affected account and forward it to a qualified mortgage broker. The broker can then make a much more informed decision based on their understanding of the situation. Q: I am currently renewing my DeCare Dental insurance. My previous dental plan with DeCare Dental was a corporate plan TeamCare Level 3 Plus through my wife's employer and this covered our entire family. My wife is now on a career break and therefore not on the company corporate plan. I want to continue the dental cover for myself. DeCare Dental is saying I am not entitled to get this plan and have quoted me a higher price for a similar plan and cover. My understanding is that it is illegal for DeCare Dental not to offer me the same corporate plan cover at the same price? A: Dental plans in Ireland are subject to a different set of rules compared to private health insurance. These DeCare Dental corporate plans are specifically costed for group schemes where the employer normally contributes towards the cost of same or there is a minimum take-up among the workforce, according to Dermot Goode of TotalHealthCover.ie. This spreads their risk and protects them from adverse selection where only those planning to have dental treatment may join the scheme, hence the lower cost in these schemes. Also, all premium payments come directly from the employer to the dental insurer which reduces the overall administration costs as well. For individuals or families who are not eligible to join such group schemes, they can join the 'Healthy Smiles' consumer plans but a higher premium will apply to reflect the risk. Dental insurers are not obliged to offer their corporate plans to the wider market. If the member is no longer eligible to remain in their company group scheme by virtue of their career break, this would explain why the dental insurer is transferring them to a consumer plan, Mr Goode said. The Home Renovation Incentive Scheme expired at the end of 2018. However, you can still apply for the tax credit for work completed going back four years. If you feel that a company is misreporting your credit history, then you should make a formal complaint in writing and ask to have the matter rectified. Dave Eggers has spent much of his life figuring out how best to help people. He first gained widespread attention in 2000 with A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius, an ironic memoir about dropping out of college to raise his little brother after their parents died. His first novel, You Shall Know Our Velocity, was about a couple of friends tearing around the world trying to give away money. His other books have brought attention to the plight of teachers, wrongfully convicted prisoners and the Lost Boys of Sudan. Eggers befriended an entrepreneurial Yemeni American, travelled with him to Africa and last year published a book about the coffee industry and the Yemeni civil war called The Monk of Mokha. And along the way, he founded 826 National, a literacy organisation for children. In other words, Eggers is not just a charitable person; he's not writing cheques and turning away. He thinks deeply about complex social and political problems and then rolls up his sleeves. Given that record of active concern and service, what are we to make of his slight new novel, The Parade, a tale of Western assistance in the developing world? The story opens in an unnamed country that has recently emerged from civil war. To reunify this broken land, an international company has been hired to build a highway connecting the rural south to the urban north. In two weeks, when the work is done, the president will hold a parade to demonstrate his nation's new era of peace and prosperity. All that remains is to pave and paint this 150-mile road. That job will be accomplished by a single machine driven by one man, assisted by another man who drives ahead to keep the path clear. Completing the job from start to finish is the whole plot of The Parade. For security reasons, the two men entrusted with this work don't give their names, identifying themselves only by numbers. The driver of the giant paving machine is 'Four', an experienced construction worker who holds strictly to every company policy, particularly the rule prohibiting interaction with the local populace. But his partner, 'Nine', is a cavalier novice who constantly wanders away to frolic with the people they pass. Four deplores everything about his younger partner, from his ridiculously long hair to his disregard for the dangers of their job. But Nine has such a buoyant spirit and an appreciation for this place and these native people that he makes Four seem dour and hardhearted. "I've never seen so many stars," Nine says when describing his previous night's antics. "Incredible sky here. It's so close, like you could jump up and wave your hands and gather the stars like sand. So I walked with my head thrown back, just astonished, and all along I would encounter people, and when they saw my jumpsuit they knew I was part of the road team. And they were so thankful. So grateful. I mean, they were walking on the surface barefoot, the asphalt still warm, just to see what it felt like...!" When Nine asks him to come and enjoy a meal at a nearby village, Four angrily rebuffs him. "I'm staying with the vehicle because my contract requires me to," he says. "I don't want local food, and you shouldn't either. You're acting like a child on holiday." All of this is fairly engaging, though it's tempting to think we've seen this buddy film before: the grumpy old crank who does everything by the book and the carefree heartthrob who drives him crazy. We know that after some crisis, the old guy will soften up and appreciate his partner's joie de vivre, while the younger man will learn to respect his boss's wisdom. These are not spoilers so much as the terms of the Buddy genre, and for most of the novel, Eggers does not deviate from that. Nine's delight with everything is a constant irritant to his machine-like partner, but it's also a persistent reminder of how much life Four is missing. Video of the Day Which brings us to what this novel is missing. Eggers has pared his clever style down to a series of flat, declarative sentences. The characters have been crunched into types. The details of this place have been sandblasted away. At best, we're left with the stark elements of a parable, which raises the book's pretentiousness quotient to dangerously high levels. At worst, we have a story that conforms to the West's reductive attitudes about the developing world. Writers and politicians have long generalised about those individual cultures. A novel that lumps them together into a nameless, primitive nation only plays into that tendency. But what's truly disappointing is the novel's final paragraph, which lands like a molotov cocktail of toxic cynicism. If this parable offers any lessons, it's that Nine's delight was foolish, that efforts to help economic development are wasted, and political reform will never work in those places that US President Donald Trump calls "shithole countries". I don't read novels to have my fantasies of progress affirmed, but I don't read them to be told that hope is a cheat, either. Washington Post When I first started teaching history at university, some 15 years ago, I often found it a struggle to make Late Antique history attractive to undergraduate students. No one seemed to care much about the economic crisis that shook the Roman Empire in the third century AD, or about waves of migration into Europe, or about the rise of rogue emperors who broke with the traditional political order, or even about the wholesale collapse of the western empire in AD 476. All these events, momentous though they were at the time, seemed too remote and too irrelevant to my students, who were comfortably basking in the euphoria of prosperity that swept through Europe's middle classes in the early years of the third millennium. But then came the global financial crisis. Some Middle Eastern states began to unravel, ordinary peaceful citizens became refugees overnight and started knocking on Europe's door, unscrupulous populist leaders rose to power and are now challenging the foundations of the rule of law, and the country that was, until recently, the dominant world power, pledged under its current administration to withdraw from the world stage. With the unfolding of such recent events, I no longer have to convince my students that Late Antique history is topical: the similarities are self-evident. With St Patrick's Day fast approaching, I want to draw attention to a somewhat less obvious analogy between two processes: one from Late Antiquity and another, unsettling process, which is unfolding right now. The first, which precipitated Saint Patrick's arrival in Ireland, was the gradual collapse of the Roman colony in Britain between the mid fourth and early fifth centuries. And the second is Brexit. Britain's impending departure from the European Union and the atmosphere, of doom and gloom that accompanies it, cast a shadow over what would otherwise be an ordinary anticipation for this weekend's St Patrick's Day festivities. Government ministers have been urged to use the momentum generated by our national holiday to forge new international economic ties to offset the anticipated effects of Brexit, adding extra poignancy to the routine state visits abroad on St Patrick's Day, which last year numbered 92 official visits in 38 countries "to promote Ireland and Irish business" (according to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade). Another noticeable effect of the Brexit referendum has been the continuing increase of applications for Irish citizenship from the UK, bringing the total to a record-breaking 190,000 in the year to December 2018. But in the early fifth century, which is when Patrick is likely to have left Britain, one did not need to apply for a passport to travel to Ireland or settle in it. Then, the economy of Ireland was not all that dependent on Roman Britain; but to speak of the subsistence agriculture of Iron Age Ireland in terms of an 'economy' is somewhat of an overstatement. Nevertheless, Ireland is where Patrick chose to settle despite what must have seemed to him as rather basic living conditions by the standards to which he was accustomed from his aristocratic family estate in Roman Britain. In fact, some of his throw-away comments betray a snobbish sense of superiority. For example, in the opening of his Confession he describes dwelling in Ireland as "living among barbarians". Video of the Day By his own account, Patrick first arrived in Ireland as a captive in his teens, but after escaping back to Britain, he chose to return and settle here permanently. Although not all his contemporaries believed this version of events in its entirety, there is no reason to doubt his sincerity when he says that he wished to convert the Irish to Christianity, perhaps as part of what an illustrious Romano-British notable like him would have regarded as a 'civilising' mission. Patrick's eagerness to convert is inextricably bound with an eschatological anticipation for the end of time, which he believed was imminent, a feeling that was shared by many of his Romano-British contemporaries, who were witnessing the unravelling of their familiar world. That he chose to live in Ireland is likely to have been occasioned just as much by missionary zeal as it was by economic prudence or necessity. Indeed, archaeology shows that after the departure of the Roman legions in 410, Britain declined rapidly, such that by the second quarter of the fifth century, Roman coins ceased to be used, and standards of living became more similar to those across the Irish Sea. This sharp deterioration would be called a 'cliff-edge scenario' in the jargon of the current Brexit debate. It is also a bleak reminder that total economic collapse is not without precedent in the history of Europe and of these islands. By separating from the Roman Empire, Britain was extricating itself (although not by popular vote) from the strongest economic and political alliance that had tied it to the European continent. As it 'drifted' further away from the mainland, Britain transformed economically and politically, but also ethnically and devotionally with the arrival of the Anglo-Saxons, who were not Christian. Ireland itself entered into a long-term process of change, establishing a formidably sophisticated church culture, which, ironically, by the seventh century would itself send missionaries to convert the Anglo-Saxons in Northumbria to Christianity. So, is there a moral to this story? Well, unless one has a propensity for prophetic revelation, as Patrick believed that he had, then no essentialist message can be distilled from the comparison between these islands in Late Antiquity and the present day. Like I tell my students, no two events are ever the same and we must guard against drawing false analogies that may reinforce the pursuit of hopeless or reckless nostalgic causes. We cannot relive the past, it is not advisable to attempt to do so, and we must acknowledge that, in most cases, the aspiration of 'learning from history' is no more than a platitude uttered by the likes of canvassing politicians, who have no real intention of practising what they preach. Nevertheless, once a historical analogy plants itself in one's mind, it is difficult to dismiss it. For those of us who teach Late Antique history, the analogies are impossible to avoid, even if all that they can offer is a pause for informed reflection rather than comfort. Roy Flechner is a lecturer at University College Dublin and author of 'Saint Patrick Retold: The Legend and History of Ireland's Patron Saint', which is out now (Princeton University Press) The MeToo movement has changed many things, including how men speak about women. There's far greater care in the language used lest a poor choice of words cause offense. But Francis Rossi doesn't seem to have gotten the memo. The Status Quo rocker speaks frankly and in a manner that might lead to jaws dropping. And he is unrepentant. He is talking about his brutally honest memoir I Talk Too Much - which, it turns out, is well named - and the conversation moves on to an admission in the book that he spent much of his life womanising. Readers of a sensitive disposition might want to look away now. "It's a bloke thing we have," he says. "There are female friends of mine and we were having a heated discussion the other day and I was saying to them: 'What you don't realise is we have this thing down there and when it stands up it has to go somewhere." "Women," he adds, "do not understand that and do not need it [sex] as much because they're on the receiving end." He doesn't say if his female companions threw their drinks at him at that point. And he doesn't seem to realise just how tone-deaf his words sound in a world increasingly intolerant of such Neanderthal thinking. "I know we're in a tricky area with the whole male-female thing, but women have to understand what this thing f***ing does. As much as they might say, 'Well, leave it then', you f***ing try." Expand Close Straight talker: Francis Rossi will turn 70 in May. Photo: James Eckersley / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Straight talker: Francis Rossi will turn 70 in May. Photo: James Eckersley He suggests that it's easier for a member of a huge rock group to indulge in prodigious sexual "adventures" than for the ordinary man on the street. Being in the spotlight on stage is a "bonus", he adds. "See how the word 'bone' crept in there?" Groupies were a major feature of life of the globe-trotting bands of the 1970s and '80s, including Status Quo. "It wasn't just us that would be marking them out of 10," he says. "They would be doing that to us too, believe me." He admits that his infidelity caused great hurt for some of those close to him. "It's true. It did. And I can't pretend I didn't hurt people because of my actions. Reading back over [the sexual exploits passages] and I think, 'What a d**k." And yet, he feels he is deserving a certain measure of sympathy. "Look," he says, "it doesn't excuse men, but it's one of the most difficult things to control. And that leads us on to the Catholic Church and the way they go on about sex" - Rossi, of Irish and Italian extraction, was raised Catholic - "and they're just not living in the real world. "I probably would still be a devout Catholic if my mother hadn't gone so frigging mad about religion, completely over the top. When a child touches his k**b, it's dirty - that's what Catholicism seemed to be saying. But it's not dirty, it's absolutely lovely. My son - number three son - said religion ruined our family." It's all there in the book - and there's no holding back in our interview either. Rossi, who turns 70 in May, is disarmingly plain-speaking, even when taking on the business of plugging his memoir. "Why would anybody want to buy a book about some d***head in Status Quo?" he wonders. "If I was going to do this it would have to be real life, not showbiz. I'd have to be honest. Video of the Day "To tell you the truth, I didn't want to write this book. I thought they'd want me to slag Rick [Parfitt, his deceased bandmate] off. But then they threw money at me and there's something about numbers with zeros after it and I thought, 'Hmmmm.'" If the Londoner says unpalatable things about sex and gender relations he is, at least, refreshingly honest about being financially motivated. "I know lots of people pretend it's not about money - but people have always done stuff for money and so have I. "I remember we did an ad for an Australian supermarket years ago - it was one of the biggest ads they ever did - and it was a Marmite thing: Some people loved us so it worked and some people hated us so it worked too. So, anyway, we're coming back from Australia one time and these Australian blokes are with their wives in first class - they're looking over at us and then one of them says: 'I bet you did it for the money.' And I was like: 'Nah, we did it because we f***ing love supermarkets.'" The commercial is available on YouTube and it's based around the cheesiest reimagining of one of their big 1970s hits, Down Down. Even their most ardent fans might find themselves looking at the ad through laced fingers. One hopes the band were, indeed, well paid. "Oh, we were!" Rossi says he has never been considered cool, especially by London's "snooty" music press, and Status Quo is hardly a name to drop to impress anybody. Yet, it's sometimes forgotten how enormous the band were in their 1980s pomp. They rarely played venues smaller than stadia and they sold truckloads of albums. "It was a really good time to be in the music business," Rossi says. "It's all so different today - people expect to get their music for free." His mother's father, Paddy, was from Ireland, but he says it's the Italian side of him that has been more pronounced. "There was a period when I was with [his daughter] Bernadette's mother Elizabeth and I was living in Ireland and I had a really strong feeling for Ireland. I feel a sense of belonging when I hear the accent. And I love the Irish jokes too," he says, oddly. "Not that it's knocking the Irish, mind." He says that certain traditional Italian songs had an impact on the music of Status Quo. He chants the rhythm of one of them and it does indeed sound like the chugging beat of so many Status Quo anthems. "It's that shuffle thing. Status Quo would do the bluesy side, but also the less 'cool' side." Rossi has made music since his adolescent years. Much of his love of the guitar was fostered thanks to his friendship with old schoolmate and future Status Quo member Alan Lancaster. "We got our first record contract in 1966. We were a group then. That's the word they used. Rory Gallagher started that 'band' thing." He is engaging when talking about how the industry has changed, especially when chatting about the sharp practice of some unscrupulous figure in the 1960s. "It was a hard business then," he says. "You wouldn't want to get on the wrong side of some of them. I remember in America this guy we were dealing with was pissed off with me over something and said he could have me killed. I don't think it was an idle threat." His fortunes changed when he met Rick Parfitt in the mid-1960s. The two hit it off immediately. "Writing about those early years helps to balance the negatives about how it went later on." The two fell out in the years before Parfitt's death from sepsis in 2016, so he says writing the book helped him to remember just how close they had been in their youth. "We used to love camping it up. I've always liked being around gay people - I can't say fags anymore - and wrongly, I thought they were kind of weedy until I met Freddie Mercury." The terminology used is another breathtaking illustration of his archaic outlook. "Me and Rick had some really great times together, and some not so great," he continues. He says Parfitt changed over the years. "Someone got to Rick. He become the archetypal rock star and ultimately became a caricature of himself. It's an a***hole lifestyle and the problem is rock stars get indulged. I stayed at home like a boring old fart - the music is the rock'n'roll to me. "When he started to try to do the rock thing, we would clash there. I'd be going, 'What the f*** are you doing?' They made things fractious between us. They [bandmates] wanted to get rid of him after the first gig, but I said no. When the band was young it's us against the world, then it was me and Rick against the other three [in the band]. We always wore these stripy blazers together. There's a period when we would ring each other to see what we were wearing. It sounds a bit pathetic now, but we were close. Then we grew up and got married and had kids and that's different." He says he is keen to remember Parfitt in a positive way. "He was extremely honest, so maybe he would have appreciated what I was trying to do in this book. And he was this handsome bloke with loads of charisma. Sometimes he'd go in [to a gig] looking like Lemmy on a bad night and come out looking like Michael Buble!" Despite pooh-poohing the rock star lifestyle, Rossi certainly indulged too. In the book he notes that he had an epiphanal moment in the late 1980s when, at 38, he realised he had been a cocaine user for more than a decade. "I came to it late and that's probably what helped [when it came to getting clean]. Alcohol meeting coke was where the problems began for me." Despite those excesses, the band remained professional, playing one big-ticket gig after another. He says nothing compared to the thrill of playing Live Aid. "It was [Bob] Geldof who convinced us to play it," he says. "It's funny looking back, because it was the Loadsamoney generation [in reference to Harry Enfield's comedic creation from the time], and here we were trying to raise money for Africa. When I was in school, we used to collect money for what the Irish nuns would say was for 'the little black babies'. "But Live Aid... it was the biggest feeling I can remember - and I've never felt that atmosphere from a crowd before or since." Status Quo got the legendary show underway at Wembley Stadium that June 1985 Saturday, with Rocking All Over the World, the first song played on the day (after the Coldstream Guards had completed their rendition of God Save the Queen). Despite his appreciation for Live Aid, Rossi says it could have achieved much more. "Why didn't big business get involved in Live Aid? I'm not trying to be negative, but so much more could have been raised if they'd sort of shamed corporate Britain to cough up. And I hate the back-patting that happens with Comic Relief and Children in Need and all of that. And none of that is to knock Geldof because he had the vision and the drive to make Live Aid happen and it probably would never have happened without him." Rossi - who has eight children with three women - says he is thankful for the life he has had and his desire to make music has not diminished. "It's still there," he insists. "That thrill never goes." And he says the criticism that he and his band have shipped from day one only makes him stronger. "The music press used to call us has-beens even in the early '70s and the very best thing people did for the early Status Quo was to criticise us. Today, you've kids who've been told they're great since day one - that whole X Factor generation - and they can't handle the slightest bit of criticism. "But, strange as it sounds, I think criticism is a good thing because it makes sure you don't get complacent. And we certainly got criticised. But you know what we did? We dug in. Now people say, 'you're no good without Rick'. But I'll f***ing try and I'll keep on trying." 'I Talk Too Much: My Autobiography' by Francis Rossi with Mick Wall is published by Constable at 20. Trinidadian-US rapper Nicki Minaj poses backstage during the MTV Europe Music Awards at the Bizkaia Arena in the northern Spanish city of Bilbao on November 4, 2018. (Photo by ANDER GILLENEA / AFP) Nicki Minaj has attracted criticism for her provocative lyrics and imagery RAPPER Nicki Minaj was forced to cancel her concert in Dublin's 3Arena last night as a result of "adverse weather conditions". According to promoters MCD, the 'Superbass' star had to cancel the gig after some of the equipment trucks didn't arrive. Full refunds are being offered to ticket holders and the date has not been rescheduled. "Nicki Minajs concert, which was due to take place at the 3Arena in Dublin today, has been cancelled with full refunds available from this Tuesday from point of purchase," a spokesperson said. When you get the bus all the way to @3ArenaDublin to find out @NICKIMINAJ stage hasnt arrived and the concerts cancelled, love it @3ArenaDublin @NICKIMINAJ @JuiceWorlddd Alyssa tierney (@Alyssatierney4) March 15, 2019 "Unfortunately the artist, venue and promoters have been unable to reschedule the concert despite great efforts by all parties. "The adverse weather conditions which affected Irish Sea sailings over the last 24hrs resulted in only half the trucks carrying their equipment arriving ahead of the concert. "Nicki Minaj apologises for any inconvenience caused to fans due to these unforeseen circumstances." It is understood that some of the staging equipment had not arrived by 5pm this evening. Severe Irish Sea Weather forces Nicki Minaj to cancel tonight's 3Arena concert: Refunds Available From Tuesday From Point of Purchase pic.twitter.com/7Ni9CFYijl MCD Productions (@mcd_productions) March 15, 2019 The news comes just two hours before the 36-year-old rapper was due to take the stage at 8pm, leaving thousands of fans disappointed. One fan said: "Flew all the way to Dublin on st Paddy's Weekend and to get a text two hours before the show saying it's cancelled, great." Video of the Day While another posted on social media: "Being looking forward to your Dublin show for almost a year now, today's my birthday and you cancelled an hour before I'm ready, poor form". A Status Yellow marine gale warning remains in place with southwest winds to "increase to gale force this evening and tonight" on the Irish Sea south of Anglesey, Met Eireann said. Words cannot describe the feeling of standing in line for over seven hours for someone youve been waiting to see since you were twelve.. only to find out they were never in the country and ultimately cancelled their concert. Dublin were waiting. Im so disappointed @nickiminaj. tumi. (@oluwablk) March 15, 2019 Last week, Minaj cancelled a concert in Bordeaux in France just hours before she and opening act Juice WRLD were due to perform on Saturday March 9. The cancellation was due to "technical difficulties", which also led to a performance cancellation in Bratislava, Slovakia on February 22. Facing criticism from fans, Minaj said at the time: "Why would an artist cancel a show and lose money? "What for? When theyre already in the building, dressed, etc. The artist is just as mad as the fans when a show cant go on. "I love seeing my fans. Nothing can stop me. B4 the show, juice WRLD & I are just as excited as u guys are." A senior judge has criticised a decision by the Master of the High Court Edmund Honohan to appoint an 82-year-old convicted criminal to represent the best interests of children in a legal dispute. High Court President Peter Kelly said having such a person in that position would be "grotesque" and "improper". Mr Justice Kelly made the comments as he set aside an order made by Mr Honohan in January appointing Michael Grimes as guardian ad-litem, or next friend, to three children whose parents have been embroiled in litigation with the Revenue Commissioners. It was the second time Mr Honohan appointed Mr Grimes, a former company director from Innishannon, Co Cork, to represent the best interests of the children. A previous order he made in July 2017 was set aside by Mr Justice Kelly later that year. Mr Grimes pleaded guilty last year to a number of criminal offences under the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997. The charges related to unpaid VAT liabilities of 340,000. Expand Close Master of the High Court Edmund Honohan. Photo: Collins Courts / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Master of the High Court Edmund Honohan. Photo: Collins Courts He was given a two-and-a-half year sentence, which was suspended on a number of conditions. These included that he would desist from interfering with the Revenue in its assessment and collection of taxes, either on his own behalf or on behalf of others. Another condition was that he refrain from vexatious correspondence with the Revenue or its agents. Setting aside the order made by Mr Honohan on January 11, Mr Justice Kelly said Mr Grimes did "not display any special relationship or skill which would justify him being appointed", were such an appointment necessary. "Over and above that, it would be quite improper for the court to appoint somebody who has a sentence of imprisonment of two-and-a-half years hanging over him as a result of a plea of guilty," said Mr Justice Kelly. "Such a person to be acting as a guardian ad-litem or next friend of infant children would be grotesque. It is quite improper. I don't know whether the Master when he made the order which he did in January of this year was acquainted with that fact. "Had he been, it would have been perverse for him to have made the order which he did." The order was set aside following an application by lawyers representing a Revenue-appointed liquidator. The case it arose in dates back several years and relates to a multi-million euro judgment the Revenue secured against the children's father in respect of unpaid taxes. At a hearing on Tuesday, Mr Grimes said a June 2017 High Court order gave the parents a fortnight to leave the family home, meaning the children faced being evicted without recourse to the courts. He also said that if he was to be removed as guardian ad-litem, someone else should be appointed. However, lawyers for the liquidator said there was no imminent danger of the family home being repossessed. In his ruling, Mr Justice Kelly noted a settlement agreement was entered into which entitled the family to remain in their home. He said as far as he was aware, the conditions of the agreement were being met. "Consequently any danger, imminent or otherwise, to any children losing their family home, is zero," he said. The hearing took place just weeks after Mr Justice Kelly issued a practice direction removing debt cases from Mr Honohan's court. A judge has ordered a landlord to pay 1,000 to a potential tenant who was rejected after saying he was qualified for the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP). In what is believed to have been the first case of its type to be decided by the Circuit Court, the landlord failed in an appeal against a finding made by the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC), which also deals with non-work related equality complaints. The president of the court, Judge Raymond Groarke, upheld the WRC finding against landlord Rosaleen Prendergast. However, he reduced by half the 2,000 in compensation the WRC ordered she should pay. The judge said that while discrimination occurred, he did not believe it was intentional. The WRC complaint was taken last year by prospective tenant Damien Keogh, who is currently living in a hostel. After seeing a flat in Kilnamanagh, Tallaght, advertised on Daft.ie, he sent an email enquiring about its availability. The email said he had been passed for HAP, a social housing support for people with a long-term housing need. Under equality legislation, a landlord cannot refuse to rent someone accommodation because they are getting a social welfare payment. But Mr Keogh, who was represented in the case by legal advice charity Flac, told Dublin Circuit Civil Court he received an emailed response stating: "Sorry, we do not accept HAP at the minute." The court heard Ms Prendergast, a widow, had an extension on the side of her house and sought to rent out a small apartment in it for the first time last year. She did not dispute the contents of the email sent to Mr Keogh. But she told the court the email response, sent by her daughter Samantha, had been "a mistake". "We didn't do this on purpose. We didn't know about the HAP. We didn't mean to insult the fellow," she said. Samantha Prendergast gave evidence that at the time she did not realise her mother did not need to be registered before she could offer the unit to someone on HAP. She said she was inundated with emails in response to the advert and subsequently they decided to get an estate agent to handle queries. Judge Groarke said it was the first time they had rented the property and there was "a quagmire of legislation", which they were not familiar with. "But unfortunately the law says that people are presumed to know the law and must act within the law whether they know what it is or not," he said. "I think that this was probably a human error, a human mistake on the part of the Prendergasts and they had no particular intention to treat anybody in a discriminatory fashion. "I don't think there was any mala fides on their part. I don't think they are that kind of people. However, there was discrimination." While upholding the WRC finding, he halved the award to 1,000, saying the original award was "too high". Flash Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a message of condolence to New Zealand Governor-General Patsy Reddy on Friday over the deadly shooting incidents earlier Friday in New Zealand's Christchurch City. In his message, Xi said he was shocked to learn about the serious shooting incidents which have caused heavy casualties. On behalf of the Chinese government, the Chinese people and in his own name, Xi expressed deep sympathy with and sincere condolences to the New Zealand government and the New Zealand people, while expressing grief for the victims and wishing the injured an early recovery. Also on Friday, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang sent a message of condolence to New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, expressing grief for the victims while extending sincere sympathies to the injured and the bereaved families. The family of Clodagh Hawe had to fight hard for the serious case review that has been launched into the Garda investigation of the murders of the schoolteacher and her three sons. The trauma endured by relatives has been exacerbated by the many unanswered questions surrounding husband and father Alan Hawe, who carried out the brutal killings before taking his own life at the family home near Ballyjamesduff, Co Cavan, in 2016. While an inquest last year dealt with the who, the when and the how of the murders, in their view it didn't answer the why. They believe gardai, Alan Hawe's union and the school where he worked could all help complete the picture. But for one reason or another, certain information has not been disclosed. So it was a major achievement by Clodagh's mother Mary Coll and sister Jacqueline Connolly when their campaigning prompted Garda Commissioner Drew Harris to announce a review last week. They felt they had no choice but to go public after An Garda Siochana officially denied them access to the case files. A powerful interview on RTE's 'Claire Byrne Live' proved to be the catalyst for movement. But the forward momentum has been slowed by events of recent days. Firstly, the Irish National Teachers' Organisation (INTO) has reiterated its stance that it cannot discuss any contacts it may have had with Alan Hawe. Secondly, the family's understanding that Hawe was facing a disciplinary matter or grievance was contradicted by the board of management of Castlerahan National School, where he worked. In a statement, the school also rejected suggestions Hawe had been accessing pornographic websites during the school day or engaging in sexual activity at the school. Read More Ms Connolly did not wish to comment on the school's statement when contacted by the Irish Independent this week. "There is a serious case review about to begin. This needs to go ahead and do its work," she said. Clodagh's mother and sister have never accepted the theory put forward at the inquest by the clinical director of the Central Mental Hospital, Professor Harry Kennedy, regarding Alan Hawe. Prof Kennedy never treated Hawe, but based on medical documents he formed the view the killer had a longstanding depressive illness that progressed to a severe depressive episode with psychotic symptoms. Clodagh's relatives feel it is too convenient to explain away what happened by stating Hawe was suffering from a mental illness. They have pointed to the "premeditated" and "calculated" way he carried out the murders, ensuring his wife and eldest son Liam, who would have been likely to put up the most resistance, were killed first. They have also pointed out that Hawe's GP, who knew him for five years, said he never displayed any signs of depression. Then there were Hawe's counselling sessions. Clodagh's family say notes from these revealed he was frequently viewing pornography, suffering regular urges to masturbate and was experimenting with cross-dressing. According to Ms Coll, the counselling sessions went from dealing with his porn addiction to dealing with issues he was having at school. At the inquest, counsellor David McConnell did not go into the specific details of Hawe's issues, but said the killer told him: "People think of me as a pillar of the community. If only they knew." He said Hawe had a fear of being shamed and of being seen as less than perfect. According to Ms Connolly, Hawe said in his own words he had been "caught red-handed". She said counselling notes revealed he said he had been caught masturbating somewhere he shouldn't have been. She has speculated this could have been at the school. Ms Connolly has also said computer forensics established that 97pc of the pornography Hawe viewed was on a laptop at work. But this was seemingly contradicted by the board of management of Castlerahan National School earlier this week. A statement issued via solicitors said it was informed by gardai in December 2016 of Hawe's "online activity". But it also said gardai had confirmed Hawe did not access pornographic websites during the school day and that no evidence had emerged of any inappropriate activity during school time. It said that while there had been a reference to Hawe being caught "red-handed", the board could state categorically this had nothing to do with the school and did not happen on the school premises. The statement also said that at no stage was there any disciplinary process or any other investigation instigated or threatened by the school. If this is the case, a key unanswered question remains regarding the reasons for Hawe's contact with the INTO. The murders took place the day before he was due to return to work after the summer holidays and Clodagh's family has been seeking to establish if this contact was for advice or about a grievance in work. But the union said this week that while it sympathises with the family, it cannot breach its confidentiality policy. It also insisted this policy does not conflict with its legal and statutory obligations. EU Agriculture Commissioner Phil Hogan has warned Irish farmers to stay calm amid Brexit turmoil as he accused the British government of a "political stunt" over the no-deal tariff regime published this week. Amid ongoing uncertainty over what the outcome of Brexit will be, Mr Hogan pledged that Europe will not be found wanting in relation to bailing out Irish farmers if Brexit goes off the cliff edge. Details of the package from the EU will not be finalised until Brexit takes place but it is accepted that "significant" intervention will be needed to bolster the sector if Britain crashes out of the EU. However, the commissioner said the "chief threats" hanging over the Brexit talks are gone after the British parliament voted against a crash-out. "We need to stay calm and not react to the UK's tariff statement published during the week. This was a political stunt, pure and simple, designed to change the news cycle in the UK and weaken the unity of the EU 26 in relation to the Irish backstop," he said. This week the UK government released details of a tariff schedule it plans to implement in a no deal which would heap pressure on Irish farmers and effectively turn Northern Ireland into a smugglers paradise - sparking panic among farmers. Expand Close Click to view full size / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Click to view full size "I want to assure Irish farmers that the EU's resolve will not buckle. Solidarity behind Ireland remains rock solid, steadfast and unwavering. "So the EU and I, as commissioner for agriculture, stand ready to help our farmers at the appropriate time. We don't know the outcome of these negotiations from London's point of view and therefore we can't come to any conclusions on what the appropriate response will be. We shouldn't talk ourselves down in to a crisis either," he said. Mr Hogan said that the EU has supports ready for farmers in the event of a hard Brexit but that farmers must "not talk themselves in to a crisis". He also hit out at the "howling" seen in Westminster in recent weeks which he claimed "is becoming an embarrassment at this point and a stain on the UK's standing in the world". Speaking at the Navigating Global Trade event, hosted by Grant Thornton and the 'Irish Farmers Journal' in the RDS, Mr Hogan pointed out that additional supports must be put in place for Irish farmers and guaranteed that there would be no change to direct payments paid to farmers in 2019. "This is not the first time Irish agriculture has faced a risk of large proportions. In my political lifetime we have had to deal with BSE, foot and mouth, and the recent markets crisis arising from the Russian embargo," he said. "In all these cases, the commission dipped into its toolbox to offer strong support, and Brexit will be no different - the same instruments are in place and ready to be deployed. "There is recognition across the EU of Ireland's vulnerability in relation to Brexit, particularly our beef sector. There must be additional support available for Irish farmers. Irish agri-food companies have already been granted State aid relief. My services are making good progress on putting structures in place for transport and logistics, SPS issues, customs checks and all related challenges." He pointed out that in relation to the UK market, the competition will be unable to fill market demand overnight and consumers in the UK are not going to stop eating high-quality Irish beef overnight either. In 2018, around 370,000 women presented for screening compared to 280,000 in 2017 after an offer was made to have additional free tests The backlog of women's slides sent for cervical screening remains high at 78,000, with test results not returned for up to 27 weeks, a spokeswoman for CervicalCheck has confirmed. "Some of our existing providers have managed to reduce the wait times and we continue to work with others to try to find additional capacity," she said. In 2018, around 370,000 women presented for screening - compared to 280,000 in 2017 - after an offer was made to have additional free tests. "This increase of 90,000 was as a result of the uptake of the out-of-cycle smear test and more women presenting to the programme, which would in normal circumstances be a positive step. "We have worked with existing private providers, other private providers and public service providers in other countries to try to increase our laboratory capacity. While we continue to pursue active leads this has proved very challenging due to the global shortage in cytology," she added. Health Minister Simon Harris said laboratories are prioritising slides which originate from women who attended colposcopy exams. Responding to Fianna Fail spokesman on health Stephen Donnelly, he said "the delay in the return of cervical screening results, whilst undesirable, is not necessarily dangerous and poses a very low risk". Like hell on Earth: Maureen Judge (65), of Co Meath, is in agony living with the pain but is no closer to getting a date for hip surgery after more than three years A grandmother who has been waiting for a hip replacement for more than three years says she now has to crawl up the stairs in her home. Maureen Judge (65), from Trim, Co Meath, claimed she had to wait more than two years on a list to get an initial appointment with an orthopaedic consultant, which took place in March 2018. After a second meeting with a different consultant at Our Lady's Hospital in Navan last December, she is still waiting for a date to be set for her operation. In the meantime, Ms Judge describes her life as a 'living hell' and is no longer able to shop, clean her house or even sleep because of the agony. "This is my fourth year living with the pain and hospital X-rays showed I needed a new hip years ago," she told the Irish Independent. "I'm at the stage where I have trouble putting on my socks and even washing my hair is torture. "I rarely go upstairs anymore as I have to crawl up the stairs, I sleep on the couch to get some relief. Even at that, I wake up three or four times with the pain. "I use a zimmer frame and walking stick and have to hold on to chairs, doors and the walls to get around my house. "My life is like hell on Earth and that's no exaggeration. I can't do anything any more, only read." Due to health complications, Ms Judge can only take paracetamol for the pain. "I don't remember what it's like to walk properly, but if I got a new hip I'd walk for Ireland," she said. The HSE has promised to look into her file but says it can't comment on any individual case. It said there are currently 105 patients on the waiting list for a hip replacement at Our Lady's Hospital in Navan, four of whom have been waiting over nine months for surgery. "There are currently 3,510 people in total on the out-patient waiting lists in Navan, which are not specific for hip or knee patients," it said. "Our Lady's Hospital recently received approval to introduce a waiting-list initiative to significantly reduce this list from April." Describing the situation as "incredible", leader of Aontu Peadar Toibin, a Meath West TD, said: "There needs to be front-end investment in order to clear these lists now." The rate of sick days taken by HSE staff rose in December in the wake of Taoiseach Leo Varadkar's controversial lecture on hospital workers' absenteeism and annual leave over the festive period. Absenteeism rates across the health service increased that month to 4.8pc - up from 4.5pc in November. Mr Varadkar drew the wrath of health workers after he told the Dail in early November that it was time the hospitals operated "at full whack" over the Christmas holiday period to try to control the trolley crisis. He also warned that consultants and nurses must not take their annual leave in the first fortnight in January. "No bed should be closed because people are on leave. The emergency department and medical consultants should be there," he said. The Taoiseach's comments came amid fears of another post-Christmas surge in trolley gridlock. Nurses' and doctors' unions accused him at the time of trying to divert from the real problems - the lack of beds and staff. The HSE's figures for December show within hospitals the proportion of nurses on sick leave increased to 5.1pc, compared with 4.8pc in November. There was no difference in the absenteeism rate of doctors, remaining at just 1pc for hospital medics. But it rose to well over 6pc for general support staff such as porters and patient and client care workers. Significantly, no-shows also rose among hospital administrators, up from 4.4pc to 4.5pc. In hospitals, 85.8pc of the sick leave was certified. As it happened, the festive A&E overcrowding did hit hospitals, but not at the extreme levels of the previous year. The slight easing of the issue was strongly linked to better planning, fewer flu cases and a virtual freeze on surgery, except for in emergency cases, to free up beds. The HSE said last December's absenteeism rate was the same as the 2017 figure but higher than what was recorded in the same month in 2016. Around 87.7pc of the no-shows were certified. Absenteeism in the health service was highest in 2008 at 5.8pc, but it has reduced and stood at 4.4pc in 2017. The HSE said that health sector work can be physically and psychologically demanding, and said this increases the risk of work-related illness and injury. It also said their trends are in line with international public healthcare organisations. "The latest NHS England absence rate for April 2018 was 3.83pc, while the 2017 annual rate was 4.13pc, up from 4.05pc the previous year," a spokesperson said. They said that, as with international health services, sickness absence rates show wide seasonal variation - lower in summer and higher in winter. One of the country's main maternity hospitals has dropped restrictions and is now accepting women referred to it from outside its catchment area for medical abortion. This is because of the demand for the service, it was confirmed yesterday. The Rotunda Hospital had previously confined the service to women in its catchment area of north Dublin and its wider environs since the new abortion law was introduced in January. But a spokesman confirmed yesterday the Rotunda took the decision to expand the service to women from outside its traditional catchment area "due to demand". The hospital has also ended its condition which limited its medical abortions to up to 11 weeks of pregnancy. This gestation limit by the hospital came under criticism from Health Minister Simon Harris who said: "The law is the law." The law entitles a woman to a termination up to 12 weeks. He said that the chief medical officer, Dr Tony Holohan, would be contacting the hospital. The National Maternity Hospital and the Coombe hospital continue to confine their medical abortion service to women from their catchment areas. A spokesman for the Coombe said that it continues to only accept referrals for women from Kildare, west Wicklow, Dublin west, Dublin south city and Dublin south-west. All women who want a medical abortion between nine and 12 weeks must go to a maternity hospital for the service after being referred by a GP. A spokeswoman for the HSE said that there are now 10 maternity units and hospitals across the country providing medical abortions. Along with the three Dublin hospitals, the others include Mullingar Hospital, Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital Drogheda, University Hospital Galway and Mayo Hospital. The service is also provided by University Maternity Hospital Limerick, Cork University Maternity Hospital and University Hospital Waterford. They also provide other terminations allowed under the law. MOSQUES across Ireland will be increasing their security following the New Zealand terror attack, a senior Muslim cleric has said. In total, 49 people were killed and 20 injured when a gunman opened fire at two mosques in the city of Christchurch yesterday. In response, gardai said local community officers would be attending yesterdays prayer services at places of worship and making themselves available to those communities. The move was welcomed by Shaykh Dr Umar al-Qadri, Imam of the Dublin-based Islamic Centre of Ireland, who said it will give them an opportunity to discuss security measures at mosques. Expand Close Barry Andrews (centre) pictured with Mary Fitzpatrick and Imran Khurshid at The Dublin City Mosque, Talbot St. / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Barry Andrews (centre) pictured with Mary Fitzpatrick and Imran Khurshid at The Dublin City Mosque, Talbot St. I think generally speaking overall, mosques will increase security in Ireland. We dont expect an attack but lone wolf attacks can happen anywhere so we will have to be vigilant unfortunately, he said. Asked if he believed an increase in anti-Muslim rhetoric was a factor in the New Zealand attack, Dr Al-Qadri said: Absolutely. Anyone who would spread a hate narrative or extremist views as a populist view is someone who has contributed to this attack, so in that regard there has to be a clampdown on anti-immigration rhetoric, anti-Muslim rhetoric and any rhetoric against communities, he added. Also I expect the Government and the Taoiseach to send a stronger message against Islamophobia because this was an Islamophobic attack. Meanwhile, local and national representatives have expressed a message of support and solidarity with Muslims in a Dublin mosque. As hundreds of Dublin-based Muslims gathered for Friday prayers at Dublin City Mosque, on Talbot Street in the north inner city, Fianna Fail local election candidate Imran Khurshid invited party stalwarts Barry Andrews and Mary Fitzpatrick to address the congregation. Expand Close Barry Andrews pictured with Mary Fitzpatrick and Imran Khurshid addressing attendees during Friday prayers at The Dublin City Mosque, Talbot St. / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Barry Andrews pictured with Mary Fitzpatrick and Imran Khurshid addressing attendees during Friday prayers at The Dublin City Mosque, Talbot St. I am here today to express my extreme sorrow for the people of New Zealand, the Muslim community of New Zealand, and to express my genuine deep solidarity with the Muslim community here in Dublin, said Mr Andrews. I think, like everybody, I was shocked at what I saw this morning in the media and very sorrowful. As a father of three children, you cannot but feel a tremendous sense of pain at the loss that so many families are feeling today. I want to come here today to express on behalf of all of the people of Dublin that sense of solidarity and feeling for our fellow men, women and children, wherever they may be, or whatever colour or creed. That is the strong values of this country, values of welcome. I hope that that message is very clear to all of you today. My prayers are with you. Ms Fitzpatrick also thanked the Muslim community for her invitation to address them during their moment of prayer. Read More We have come here today to share with you, to comfort with you, to try and find understanding and acceptance, and to reject the hatred and division and violence, she told the gathering of around 300. Some people attending prayer had earlier expressed their fears that there might be a danger of trouble at the mosque if the New Zealand murders were part of a global attack. I was a bit reluctant when I was coming. I was thinking there might be some problems all over the globe. I was a bit worried about it, said Mohammad Zarad. Bakary Ceesay said prayers were said for the victims of Christchurch at an earlier prayer meeting. It wouldnt stop me coming here today but there are crazy people all over the world, he said. Mr Khurshid said that he does not want to spread any message other than peace. My motivation in bringing Barry and Mary here today is to bring people together. The city belongs to everyone, he told Independent.ie. Fianna Fail TD Billy Kelleher has been sensationally defeated at a Fianna Fail selection convention for the EU Parliament elections. Mr Kelleher defied Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin by putting his name forward for the EU election in the Ireland South constituency. However, he was narrowly defeated by Wexford County Councillor Malcom Byrne by eight votes. Mr Byrnes final vote count was 451 to Mr Kellehers 443. Former Renua general election candidate who joined Fianna Fail, Jason Fitzgerald, received 195 first preference votes. Fianna Fail member Kieran Hartley, who was substitute for long-running MEP Brian Crowley, received 29 votes. Expand Close Cllr Malcolm Byrne / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Cllr Malcolm Byrne The loss will be a devastating blow for Mr Kelleher after he clashed with Mr Martin over his decision to run. Mr Martin has publicly said he did not want any of his sitting TDs to put their name forward for the EU elections. In an interview before the Fianna Fail Ard Fheis in January, Mr Martin said the party could not win two seats in Mr Kellehers constituency of Cork North Central if he became an MEP. Meanwhile, Cavan/Monaghan TD Brendan Smith was selected to contest the Midlands North West constituency for Fianna Fail at a selection convention on Friday night. Donald and Melania Trump greeting Leo Varadkar and his partner Matt Barrett at the White House Photo: Melania Trump/Twitter US First Lady Melania Trump has shared photographs of Taoiseach Leo Varadkars visit to the White House. They include pictures of herself and President Donald Trump greeting Mr Varadkar and his partner Matt Barrett. Mrs Trump wrote: Yesterday Prime Minister Leo Varadkar visited the White House to honor St Patricks Day. Thank you for joining us in celebrating the many wonderful traditions of Ireland! The traditional shamrock ceremony was held in the White House East Room on Thursday night. Yesterday Prime Minister Leo Varadkar @campaignforleo visited the @WhiteHouse to honor #StPatricksDay. Thank you for joining us in celebrating the many wonderful traditions of Ireland! pic.twitter.com/2guft4oJwM Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) March 15, 2019 Earlier Mr Barrett attended the annual breakfast with Christian conservative vice-President Mike Pence who has been criticised in the past for his views on LGBT issues. Mr Varadkar, one of the few openly gay world leaders, delivered a speech where he outlined how the United States inspired him to run for office and drive change in Ireland. He said he once lived in a country where if he had been himself he would have been breaking laws. Now hes leader of a country where that has changed. He said: I stand here this morning as leader of my country, flawed and human, but judged on my political actions and mistakes and not on my sexual orientation or my skin tone. He also said: We are all Gods children. Mr Varadkar said Ireland is not the only country where his story was possible and its true of the US as well. Mr Pence said Mr Varadkar had offered Inspiring words. Mr Varadkar was asked if his speech came up in conversation with Mr Pence afterwards. "We didn't really discuss the speech but we had a good chat afterwards on different issues and I had the chance to meet him again in the White House." He added: "Obviously we have very different views on social policy but I think the best way to manage these things is to engage with people rather than boycotting them and that's what I intend to do." Mr Varadkar said he met other members of Mr Pence's family and "They are very nice people and certainly have made me feel welcome when I have been in DC." A Brexit extension must not lead to a "scenario of rolling cliff edges" that would hit the economic stability of Europe, Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe has warned. European leaders are considering what type of extension they would be willing to grant the UK next week if embattled Prime Minister Theresa May fails to get her divorce deal through parliament for a third time on Wednesday. The focus has moved to how long Brexit could be pushed back for if the deal falls. EU Council President Donald Tusk will be in Dublin on Tuesday to meet with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and it is expected the shape of a potential Brexit extension could be discussed at that meeting. Mr Tusk met with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte yesterday and will meet with Angela Merkel and Emm-anuel Macron on Monday. Mr Donohoe said Ireland would respond "very generously" to an extension request from Mrs May if one was forthcoming. However, echoing concerns sounded across Europe, Mr Donohoe warned that the detail of the request will be paramount: "I believe that it is highly important that we do all we can to avoid being in this scenario of rolling cliff edges particularly from a financial market stability perspective and economic stability. "What we have said is that obviously the British government will need to decide, if they do want an extension, how long they will want it for, and we will be positive and constructive in relation to that, when they put it forward," he told Bloomberg. The minister was in London for arguably the most sensitive of the government's St Patrick's Day missions abroad as European leaders began considerations on what type of delay could be granted for the UK's exit. In the UK, the defacto deputy prime minister David Lidington said a long delay was inevitable if the prime minister's deal was not supported. However, Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay said that if the deal did not get through the UK should not be afraid to leave without a deal on March 29. Flash U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Friday that Washington is still hopeful for continued talks with Pyongyang. "We are hopeful that we can continue to have conversation, negotiations," Pompeo told reporters at a press conference held at the State Department. He confirmed that there is ongoing negotiation between the two sides, but refusing to give the details. Pompeo said that he and his counterpart of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) had "very professional conversations" and he has "every expectation that we'll be able to continue to do that." Pompeo's remarks came hours after Pyongyang blamed the U.S. side for the failure of the recent summit between the DPRK's top leader Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump. After ending the summit in Hanoi on Feb. 28 without reaching an agreement, Trump told a press conference that there was "a gap" in what the DPRK and the United States were pursuing. According to Trump, Kim demanded relief from sanctions against Pyongyang "in their entirety" in exchange for denuclearizing a "large portion" of the DPRK's nuclear program, something the United States could not agree to. Dismissing Trump's claim, DPRK Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho has said that DPRK only proposed partial removal of the sanctions, wanting those impeding the livelihood of their people to be removed first. US President Donald Trump walked on stage in the East Room of the White House with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar for the traditional St Patrick's Day shamrock ceremony to the familiar strains of 'Hail to the Chief'. Mr Trump stepped up to the podium and remarked: "Oh that beautiful music, I can't talk over that.... it's too good, we'll let them finish out." In jovial form, Mr Trump then spoke of how delighted he was "to be here with my Irish friends". Chaos has constantly swirled around the Trump administration, from strongly denied suspicions of Russian interference in the 2016 election to rows over his Mexican border wall. But the lavish reception was everything you'd expect from the ceremonial side of the presidency. The St Patrick's festivities were a brief reprieve from the endlessly rolling controversy that has been Mr Trump's time in office. When the time came, the president invited the "TEE-Shuck" - as it was spelled on his teleprompter - to hand over the usual crystal bowl of shamrock, saying: "It's an honour to be with you, enjoy your evening and let's present the trophy to President Trump." In remarks that will raise an eyebrow back home, Mr Varadkar praised Mr Trump for the apparent economic results of his efforts to 'Make America Great Again' while saying the values that "makes it great already" shouldn't be forgotten. Tom Wright, a senior fellow with Washington's Brookings Institution think-tank, said there's "all sorts of craziness" going on in the US capital but that "St Patrick's Day was able to continue without being overly impacted by the political chaos". He said the trip saw support from Republicans and Democrats and Mr Varadkar's speeches were well received. "It was a reminder, particularly at a time of Brexit, that Ireland has turned into a bipartisan issue in the US," he added. He said that Mr Trump "definitely likes pageantry" and meeting other leaders but said the Oval Office encounter between the president and Mr Varadkar showed how it's a "risky environment" for foreign dignitaries. He said that while on the whole the trip went well for Mr Varadkar, it was a "calm amidst the storm" of US politics. Mr Trump clearly enjoyed the shamrock ceremony, sharing a video of it on Twitter. But a small sample of Mr Trump's non-St Patrick's Day Twitter activity from the 48 hours that Mr Varadkar was in town provides some insight into the embattled administration. Mr Trump criticised the governor of California for halting executions of prisoners he termed "stone cold killers" and he attacked late night TV talk-shows - for whom he's frequently the butt of jokes - saying they're "unwatchable". He hit out at "deranged" media outlets who he blamed for spreading conspiracy theories that a body double of first lady Melania Trump had accompanied him to a disaster site in Alabama, saying they were "Fake News photo-shopped pictures". He tweeted "VETO!" after the Senate passed a resolution to overturn his declaration of a national emergency at the US-Mexico border as part of his bid to build his infamous wall. And he ranted at length about the issue when he fielded questions from reporters at his joint Oval Office appearance with Mr Varadkar. During the same meeting, Mr Varadkar expressed his support for free trade and a possible deal between the EU and US. This prompted the president to launch into a tirade against how his country had been treated by Europe in trade talks. Mr Wright said the Taoiseach was trying to offer Mr Trump an "olive branch" on economic co-operation with the US but "you never know what will set Mr Trump off". He argued that Mr Trump is the first US president to see the EU as a rival and it's a reminder that "things aren't normal" in American politics. Mr Trump also announced his intention to visit Ireland this year. There is no "firm date" agreed, the Taoiseach said, but Mr Trump is due to travel to Europe in both June and December and it's understood an Irish visit will be added to one of those trips. His presidency is unlikely to become any less controversial in the coming months and there will be protests. Ireland literally rolled out the red carpet when he visited before becoming president and there will surely be pageantry at Aras an Uachtarain and Government Buildings. It may provide Mr Trump with another break from the turmoil. But watch his Twitter page while he's here. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar presents US President Donald Trump with a bowl of Shamrock during a St Patrick's Day Celebration reception and Shamrock presentation ceremony at the White House. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA TAOISEACH Leo Varadkar has credited help from US President Donald Trump with saving hundreds of jobs in the west of Ireland. US sanctions against Russia affected the Aughinish Alumina refinery in Limerick as its parent company Rusa has links to oligarch Oleg Deripaska. Hes an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has been accused of meddling in the 2016 US presidential election. The refinery in Limerick employs around 450 people and doubt was cast over its future due to the sanctions. Expand Close Donald and Melania Trump greeting Leo Varadkar and his partner Matt Barrett at the White House Photo: Melania Trump/Twitter / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Donald and Melania Trump greeting Leo Varadkar and his partner Matt Barrett at the White House Photo: Melania Trump/Twitter Mr Varadkar discussed the issue with Mr Trump during his visit to Washington in 2018 and how jobs in the region were at risk and the President asked is officials to look into it. The Trump administration is understood to have helped in finding a solution so ensure that the plant did not fall under the sanctions regime. Mr Deripaska agreed a deal with the US Treasury Department whereby he would reduce his stake in Rusal to have the sanctions lifted. Mr Varadkar thanked Mr Trump for his help with Aughinish where he said hundreds of jobs had been threatened, adding: "with the help of the administration, we were able to save those jobs." Mr Trump quipped, with reference to the media present, "They don't know about what I do for other people". Meanwhile, talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, one of the most high profile LGBT figures in the US, picked up on Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and his partner Matt Barretts visit to Vice President Mike Pences home. She tweeted: Mike Pence met with Irelands openly gay PM and his boyfriend. This makes me very happy. The case of Lisa Smith, the former Irish soldier and 37-year-old mother who has been living in Syria and who is - it would seem - returning to her home country of Ireland has been well documented. What is less clear is what should happen to her next. For now, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has taken the compassionate and, more importantly, legally sound stance and has indicated that she will be allowed to return to her home country with her citizenship intact, and with her young child. It is important to stress here that this decision is in line with Smith's constitutional rights. It is also important to remember that if or when Smith does return to Ireland, she will certainly face significant investigation by An Garda Siochana and perhaps face some kind of charges. Across the water, the case of Shamima Begum, the teen who left the UK for Syria and has since asked to return home, has attracted similar public interest. Sajid Javid - the British Home Secretary - has taken the controversial step of revoking Begum's British passport, thus rendering her stateless. This is a bold move as it goes against international law. It is debatable whether Begum's comments condoning attacks on her home soil such as the Manchester bombing of 2017 have supported the conditions in which such an action could be carried out. It may come as a surprise to many that statistics suggest that the level of violent crime and/or terrorist activities undertaken by returnees from conflict zones like Syria is low. In general terms, it would appear that upon returning to their home countries, returnees largely either remain under the radar, or cease causing concern. But the questions and concerns facing a returnee are far from simple or straightforward. With this in mind, the Irish public quite rightly needs to know what happens next. In attempting to provide some answers, it is useful to consider what other countries faced with similar dilemmas have implemented and how deradicalisation can be approached. In 2016, the then French Prime Minister Manuel Valls revealed plans for a $114m deradicalisation initiative. The project, which included a strict regime of uniform-wearing participants reciting the French national anthem every morning, came to an end after less than six months. Not only are projects such as this disturbing ethically and morally, they are also at risk of causing more harm than good. Saudi Arabia has taken a more dialogue-orientated approach that has produced positive results. For example, camps are set up as schools - not as prisons. They are also designed not to segregate and label returnees but aimed at a gradual reintroduction of people to their community through a more collaborative discourse between the state and those returning. Voluntary programme There is no 'one-size-fits-all' approach to this issue. From a criminological perspective, in a similar way that there is no 'one' reason a person commits a crime, individuals will find themselves in situations similar to Smith and Shamima for a variety of reasons, involving factors and circumstances that are both within and outside their control, influence and awareness. What is clear is that there needs to be a careful consideration of the nature of exit programmes for returnees that pays careful attention to the role of counselling. There is a difference between luring someone away from ideas of acts of violence and altering their entire belief system; the latter being far more complex. The UK established an approach called Channel in 2015 under the Counter-terrorism and Security Act as a part of the government's Prevent strategy. This is a voluntary referral programme aimed at all ages who are identified as being potentially radicalised or at risk of being radicalised. In 2015, over 4,000 people were referred to a deradicalisation scheme - including children as young as nine. Another just as controversial method that has been tested and produced dismal results is the British government's emphasis on the internet and online content aimed at tackling radicalisation. Despite bleak results, this approach remains popular in the eyes of politicians who fail to acknowledge that what is required is one-to- one and more importantly face-to-face interaction. Perhaps what is also needed is a more psychology-based framework such as, for example, SQT 'significance quest theory'. This terminology suggests that individuals engage in and support acts of political violence in an effort to feel a sense of belonging - at its crux, we all want to matter. We must also not forget the integral role of the community in this process. If we are to believe the mantra that communities defeat terrorism, then it is not unfathomable to believe that communities can also play a part in the deradicalisation process. We also need to consider the manner in which we interpret and present these women in the mainstream media. The latest data in security studies indicates that there is an alarming number of women such as Lisa Smith from across the Western world who are hoping to return to their home nations. A conversation is required in order to assess how these women are dealt with - do we continue to use emotive and unhelpful rhetoric such as 'brides' or do we formalise our narrative and use gender-neutral language? Intelligence goldmine It may be easier for society to categorise extremists and those who become radicalised as lost or beyond help, but this simply is not the case. It is important to remember that they are human and so will still respond in a human fashion (in all the good and the bad). Perhaps what they need is humanity. If Smith was radicalised in Ireland, this needs to be the focus of our efforts to discover how such actions took place. Ireland has a lot to learn about cases such as these and who better to learn from than the individuals themselves? Alongside this possible fruitful data mine into the intricacies and process of radicalisation, such conversations may also provide meaningful and accurate data related to other terrorist activity in combat zones. Such an approach could lead to an intelligence goldmine. At a time when Al-Qaeda (now posing as Al Nusra) is gaining prominence in the Middle East, perhaps we should even see the re-integration of women like Smith as a secondary issue and the story she will have to tell as the primary one. Emma Kelly is a criminologist at Leeds Trinity University, England I hope the environmentalists don't turn against St Patrick because he kicked the snakes out of Ireland. What use are snakes anyway? And they going around biting people, and making them sick. I'm not sure if there were killer snakes here when St Patrick bate them into the sea with his crook. We wouldn't even be able to go for a walk in the woods but for St Patrick. There are those who will tell you St Patrick never existed at all and that he was made up by the Church for propaganda purposes. As if this wasn't bad enough, there is every possibility the Brits Out movement could send St Patrick a letter bomb in the post. St Patrick was born in Britain. So why, ask the extremists, should we have a Brit as a patron saint? There is a body of opinion within the militant wing of the group that St Patrick should be replaced by St Columba, who is from the North. Then there are strong objections from the IXA, or the Irish Xenophobic Association. The IXA is against the refugees and asylum seekers in particular. Then there are those who say they have nothing whatsoever against asylum seekers provided they do not live near them. Never has St Patrick been under such threat. The fake beard industry is worried sick. The makers of plastic shillelaghs and the big mad hat milliners are aghast. The child labourers out foreign who produce souvenirs fear for their jobs. It gets worse. There are suggestions the saint should be replaced by a woman and historians suggest St Patrick had to exit Wales because he was charged with a tax offence of some sort. No doubt it was a trumped up charge and so St Patrick returned to Ireland where he sought sanctuary. I didn't get to read St Patrick's autobiography, the 'Confessio', but someone who did told me our patron may have been placed in direct provision when he had to exit Wales. It also seems from his book St Patrick may well have persuaded the Irish to refrain from sex, a practise it seems they were very fond of back in the 5th Century. There are those among you who will see this as clerical enforcement of a strict and unhealthy moral code. St Patrick picked shamrock. He ignored the signs that said "do not pick the flowers" and so was deemed an enemy of biodiversity. There may never even have been snakes in Ireland. How do I know, you may well ask. Well I googled it, that's how. I'm in a hurry due to the day that's in it. There is other more pertinent and urgent research to attend to. I was in the natural history section of the National Museum on Monday last and could not find any sign of stuffed Irish snakes. Many revisionist historians think the snakes may have been a metaphor for the druids, who were pagans and so did not belong to the one true faith. If this is correct, St Patrick was guilty of religious intolerance and ethnic cleansing. And no one knows for sure whether St Patrick is Protestant or Catholic. I'm sure he started out as a Catholic but then the Protestants claimed him. There are two St Patrick's cathedrals in Armagh. One is Protestant and the other one is Catholic. St Patrick's detractors say he has them all fighting over him up North. Academics suggest St Patrick was Roman and so it could be he was an imperialist aggressor who was sent to win over the cracked Irish by mother church. St Patrick may not even be a saint. Back in the old days saints were canonised at local level. According to Wikipedia, which I have studied for nearly two minutes, St Patrick was never formally ratified by the Pope. So what was St Patrick's name before he became a saint? It was Patrick. The saint was a shepherd on Slemish Mountain in Antrim. But more say he tended sheep in Mayo, in a place called Fochill, which is very hard to say without sounding like it's a curse. There could be murder in the GAA the next time Mayo play Antrim over the rightful workplace of the shepherd. Sheep droppings are very small and so might not have caused as much damage to the ozone layer as cows, who will be banned soon enough when the vegans take over Ireland. The vegans are spreading faster than the flu on a plane. Patrick is guilty of sheep-minding in their eyes. The patron saint could be had up for the pollution of Loch Derg in Donegal. St Patrick slew a serpent and turned the lake red with blood. He was also an immigrant, as we pointed out, and Enda Kenny pointed out to Donald Trump in the White House. If you are a fan of Trump's, then St Patrick may not be for you. The saint may even have had a wife by the name of Sheelah. I got this from an Amazon quick read of the free part of 'Saint Patrick Retold: The Legend and History of Ireland's Patron Saint', by Roy Flechner from Cambridge University. The Catholic Church might have to throw him out. Aussie women might not like him that much because Sheelah over there is like calling Irish women 'birds'. The small bit I read of the book maintains St Patrick was a tax exile from the UK. That's our saint fecked with the left now after that disclosure. This is a very quickly researched piece. The column is written on the morning of the Cheltenham Gold Cup and I have to study the horses. Miraculously I have managed to get to the last few lines without mentioning Brexit. This is probably the only column in Ireland or England this morning to manage such a feat of literary self-restraint. There are as many different solutions to Brexit as shamrocks. Still though, if you want to turn people off a column, mention Brexit in the first paragraph. I have found studying the form of horses more productive than the history of either St Patrick or the present sorry history of Brexit. And as you can see from the above, it's no bother at all to make a seemingly convincing case against anyone from a very quick perusal of Google. The gloom of a dark night was gathering. It was getting late. Our Taoiseach at the time was in foreboding and pensive mood. In his more morose moments he wondered might the unthinkable happen? Was Northern Ireland tipping towards civil war? Jack Lynch knew full well that fateful evening a moment of truth was at hand. Ireland, North and south, was swirling in a whirlpool of emotion. The enormity of what had happened only a few hours earlier in Derry was increasingly stark; it would enter the national consciousness as Bloody Sunday. And so he decided to make a phone call. History does not record whether he just might have fortified himself with a tincture of his favourite Powers whiskey beforehand. But State papers do confirm he was decidedly apologetic about disturbing the then British prime minister, Ted Heath, out of office hours. Heath was well known for his grumpy persona. And, sure enough, the records confirm his irritation with Lynch, despite the gathering storm over the Derry killings a few hours earlier. Heath's condescending and hectoring tone was emblematic of a British approach to Anglo-Irish relations at the time. Subsequently, Margaret Thatcher would also be tempted to lecture our political leaders. But as we watch the ongoing Brexit drama, it is impossible not to contrast the bolstered position of Leo Varadkar with the relative isolation of Jack Lynch almost half-a-century ago. Never was the old truism more apt - there is at least some safety in numbers. What we have been watching in recent weeks is the economic and political power of the EU at full throttle. The EU, by definition, has to be somewhat dysfunctional. But when it speaks with one voice, it is a force to be reckoned with. An underestimation of Brussels-centred strength - when the entire bloc is focused on a single objective - is why hardline Brexiteer MPs and their DUP colleagues have come unstuck. All the while, they presumed Michel Barnier and his cohorts would crack at the eleventh hour. The clock is now about to strike midnight, and there is no sign the Brussels inner sanctum will crumble. It is especially cheering that a clear majority in the House of Commons has faced down the anti-Europe ideologues in their midst. The evidence suggests Nigel Dodds and his Westminster collective overplayed their hand and backed the wrong horse. Jacob Rees-Mogg and Co still dream of a psychological border around the UK - while some DUP acolytes wish to re-enforce a divide in Ireland. But that not-to-be-underestimated bedrock of British life, the tolerant middle ground, has scuttled the best-laid plans of hardliners. A groundswell of MPs, operating as per the gold standard of remaining open to the wider world, will ensure there can be no hard Brexit. And there is repeated evidence we need not fear long-term damage to Anglo-Irish relations, despite the wailing of some of our own doomsayers. Brexit has shown mainstream British and Irish public opinion is at one on the future of Northern Ireland. Britain will be outside the EU in the future. But there is no reason why Dublin and London cannot build on that 'special relationship' so hardfought for over the years. The strategy of pursuing the backstop has been vindicated. The inner core of British politics accepts the return of a hard Border in Ireland is not acceptable in any guise. As haunting images of Bloody Sunday were resurrected this week, nobody of reasonable hue wants to put the peace process at risk. But we cannot but be reminded how Leo Varadkar is operating in a different world compared to Jack Lynch, when dealing with a London government. Lynch cut a lonely figure, obviously on the back foot, desperately trying to plead his case. In contrast, Varadkar has the fair wind of 26 other governments behind him. Perhaps a square has been circled. The ghost of a certain ex-Cork hurler, who was our man in the gap when times were desperate and dangerous, might raise a glass of his favoured tipple and whisper quietly: "I'll drink to that." Bloody Sunday is a wound that has never healed, the symbol of a society damaged not just by the Troubles but the times when the rule of law was suspended during them. That day when the Paras charged into the Bogside, guns blazing, produced an iconic image of a priest waving his blood-spattered handkerchief in an improvised flag of truce - behind him, a group of men attempting to evacuate a wounded teenager. Even 47 years on it remains distressing footage, unforgettable once viewed. Fr Edward Daly, later Bishop of Derry, was the priest - he's dead now. As for the youth, he was 17-year-old Jackie Duddy, a textile worker shot in the back whose lifeblood was draining away even as the cameras rolled. In it, the soldiers can be seen eyeballing the men staggering along under their human burden, automatic rifles at the ready, bullets powerful enough to penetrate the walls of a house. The civilians' eyes keep swivelling to the military personnel - it's clear they believe there's a strong risk of fire being opened. That evening, I remember my parents, grave-faced, tuning in to every news bulletin. Young though I was, I knew something dreadful had happened. Fr Daly was interviewed, insisting the shot teenager had been running away. No, he wasn't firing at the army. No, he didn't pose a threat. He was only a kid. He wasn't doing anything, said the priest. In Derry, as in other cities, towns and villages across the island of Ireland, people burned with a shared sense of injustice at the Bloody Sunday violence - and in Northern Ireland, with a fear that similar, state-supported carnage might be repeated. A sense of threat hung in the air. The message received was that soldiers were dangerous, could act with impunity and might shoot at random. Bear in mind that soldiers were a commonplace sight by this stage - always with weapons, often travelling in Saracens (armoured fighting vehicles equipped with machine guns). Bloody Sunday lingers in the memory because it was an act of blatant injustice by the British state against people it claimed as its own citizens. A civil society campaign to change a discriminatory state had met not with reform, but the Paras - an elite fighting force implementing British policy in the North. Arguably, that massacre of 14 people in Derry on January 30, 1972, prolonged the conflict by acting as a recruiting agent for the IRA which did not have widespread community backing at the time. At the very least, it led to passive support for the Provos among nationalists. A national day of mourning was held in the Irish Republic and the Irish government also withdrew its ambassador to London, while the British embassy in Dublin was set ablaze. Meanwhile, Lord Widgery, a former army brigadier, was appointed to investigate Bloody Sunday. Sitting alone, he exonerated the armed forces and blamed the tragedy on the Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association for organising an illegal march. Widgery's report claimed there was a "strong suspicion" that the victims had either fired weapons or handled bombs - a judgment which angered nationalists because there was no evidence to back it up, whereas independent eyewitness accounts indicated the opposite. Widgery also accepted the soldiers' accounts that they had only returned fire. The inquiry was counterproductive. It settled nothing because it was an institutional cover-up. No British soldier had reported injuries, nor were any nail bombs recovered. Indeed, it inflamed the sense of injustice among nationalists because not only were state killings whitewashed but innocent victims were demonised as bombers. After Bloody Sunday, any doubts about British armed forces as the neutral peacekeepers they claimed to be were well and truly banished, and nationalist hostility towards them increased. Meanwhile, I had a teacher who'd wag the finger when any classmate offered up an untruth. "Don't tell Widgeries," we were warned. It took almost 40 years before the lie was recognised officially. Lord Saville was appointed by then-prime minister Tony Blair to conduct an independent investigation, which finally concluded in 2010 that all who died were innocent. Soldiers had lied under oath. No warnings were given before they fired on unarmed civilians. David Cameron, as prime minister of Britain, made a formal state apology. We have yet to hear if perjury charges will be laid against the surviving soldiers. However, Soldier F is to be charged with two murders and four attempted murders. Britain is paying for his defence. I'm curious to know how he fared in the armed forces after Bloody Sunday. Were medals pinned to his chest, was he promoted, did he go on to use his gun elsewhere in the world? He wasn't the only man to pull a trigger. Where are the senior officers who gave the command to fire and what of their political masters? The Bloody Sunday families, while disappointed about just one prosecution, say justice for one is justice for all. Their dignity and persistence have been admirable. Elsewhere, some hoped Saville would be a line in the sand. In recent weeks, views have been advanced that undue attention is paid to Bloody Sunday while paramilitaries walked free thanks to the Good Friday Agreement. There is talk in senior circles of Theresa May's administration about a change in the law, with a 10-year statute of limitations on military prosecutions. (There is no statute of limitations on murder.) Boris Johnson has written in the 'Daily Telegraph' about "our brave armed forces" and the lack of balance as he sees it in seeking to make them answerable. In the 'Spectator', the writer Lionel Shriver suggests families who lost relatives to terrorism "just had to suck it up". "In which case, sorry to be so brutal, but the families of Bloody Sunday's victims should have to suck it up, too." However, at least paramilitaries served a certain period of time in jail, their actions treated as crimes. And the reality is that while prisoner release is indigestible to some, without it the Good Friday Agreement would never have flown. The Troubles tend to be laid exclusively at the IRA's door and, indeed, there is no possible defence for the thousands of deaths its members committed. But the behaviour of British authorities cannot be glossed over and legacy issues must be addressed if healing is to happen. State agents, on occasion, took actions which can only be described as repugnant. More than half of those killed on that day in Derry had bullet wounds in their backs, while others were shot in the head, often as they attempted to crawl away. An army must be held accountable for its actions. But the question is whether Britain is capable of coming to terms with its imperial history. Its Brexit convulsions suggest difficulties in that direction. I was travelling on a train to Liege recently when I espied a Belgian newspaper flagging up a photo of Tanaiste Simon Coveney at the top of the page. It concerned, predictably, editorial comment and reportage on "the Irish backstop", which has been the main focus of so much discourse in the EU over the past two years. Say what you like about the travails of Brexit - and there are many - but it has greatly increased awareness of Ireland's identity, and the complications of Partition, in foreign fields. Not since St Colombanus sent his monks to Burgundy and Bobbio has there been so much knowledge about Irish identity within continental Europe. "Der Irische backstop", "le filet Irlandais" and "il backstop Irlandese" is what has done it. When I was a youngster in France, I sometimes had the greatest difficulty explaining to various officials that "Irlande" was not the same as "Angleterre". In those far-off days before the free movement of peoples, you were apt to be asked for your "papers" by any passing gendarme, who would address you with the familiar "tu". "Tes papiers, alors? Britannique?" "Non, Irlandaise." "Meme chose." Same thing. Only in Lourdes was there a genuinely high profile of Ireland. Because "the Irish give the best parties". Yes: Lourdes night-life. Spanish taxi drivers also sometimes had an awareness of Ireland, because of "name recognition". "Si - si - De Valera!" Then, during the Troubles of the 1970s, the Parisian cabbies made an explosion mime when Ireland was mentioned. "Boum!" Yet small nations often are ignored or sidelined. How much knowledge would we have had about, say, Estonia? And it is not unknown for politicians from elsewhere to confuse Slovakia with Slovenia: perhaps thankfully for the Balkan nation, Melania Trump has now assisted its renown. A hundred years ago, in 1919, although it was evident that we were emerging into independence, Ireland was refused a place at the peace conference which led to the Treaty of Versailles (and which also gave birth to the League of Nations). Even some of the smaller nations which did attend, and had paid a high price for peace after World War I, such as Belgium itself, or Portugal, which still had the remains of an empire, complained that they were steamrollered and marginalised by the big powers. All that has changed, and one of the achievements of the EU is that it has given a more equal voice to the smaller nations - even if Germany and France are still the dominant players. And it is extraordinary how the Border - and the Partition of Ireland - has become such a central focus of attention. Continental maps show with increased clarity the now celebrated Border, locus of the even more famed backstop, with Strabane, Belleek and Cullyhanna assuming unexpectedly new distinction. In Britain, commentators are revisiting the long years when "the Irish question" was the obsession at Westminster, when Gladstone, Salisbury, Asquith and Lloyd George, in their various ways, tried to square the circle of appeasing, or "settling", Ireland while preserving the United Kingdom's constitution. Repeatedly, a solution seemed in sight, but repeatedly, the issue arose again - the latest resurrection in the form of the Brexit backstop. As Diarmaid Ferriter points out in his new book on the Border, there was always plenty of hypocrisy on all sides of this debate, with the British ignoring the problems and injustices within Northern Ireland for decades, while Dublin practised an Augustinian version of aspirational all-Ireland unification: "Oh Lord, make us united, but not yet." Nobody would deny that Brexit is a headache, especially for the farmers, the traders, and the communities around the Border: and yet, by force of circumstance, it has highlighted issues that have haunted Irish history and politics for generations. It has, literally, put the Irish Border on the world map. Those pitiful, misled republican youths, like Fergal O'Hanlon, tragically immortalised in the ballad 'The Patriot Game', or Sean South of Garryowen, gave their lives to draw attention to the ills of Partition: as things have turned out, they'd have been more successful if they'd trained as civil servants with a view to gaining a powerful place in the Brussels bureaucracy. Indeed, Michel Barnier and Jean-Claude Juncker, in their pledge to stand by Ireland, forever, on the backstop and related matters, may well deserve a patriotic ballad from the Wolfe Tones - they've probably achieved more for the Irish cause than any passionate anti-partitionist of yore. It's ironic that the high point of the backstop-Brexit drama kicks off this week - so neatly coinciding with the St Patrick's festival, when our politicians travel abroad to enhance Ireland's "brand". Dan Mulhall, Irish Ambassador to the US, has been tweeting approvingly about the green, shamrock-shaped cookies already appearing at his local patisserie in Washington. And North America has always been an enthusiastic participant in St Patrick's celebrations - as have many places where the Irish diaspora brought the emblem of the shamrock. The shamrock represents the Holy Trinity, explaining the mystery of how three persons can be in one godhead: and if you don't believe that, well, you just have to take it on trust! Perhaps the shamrock, with its symbolic meaning rooted in the acceptance of mystery and contradiction, could also be a metaphor for the Brexit backstop, which, for all its vexations, has much enhanced the fame of Ireland's "brand". Every single woman I've gabbed with this week about the recent college admissions scandal has demanded to know where, exactly, William H Macy was in all of this. Why was Felicity Huffman's husband, an equally famous actor, not also charged with trying to bribe and fraud his kids' way into college? Why were there so many dumb puns about her being a 'Desperate Housewife', and hardly any about him being 'Shameless'? Why was he listed in the affidavit as, merely, "SPOUSE"? "Oh, I bet I know why," sighed one friend, currently mired in her own kids' school applications. "It's because the moms have to do everything, including organise the crime." Macy, for what it's worth, actually appeared to be a very involved parent. In the recorded phone calls, it was SPOUSE who brought up that his kid needed high enough scores for Georgetown. It was SPOUSE who declared the kid would perform better if the family could finagle an extended two-day SAT testing period, usually reserved for students with learning disabilities. Ultimately the couple didn't go through with the scam for this child, their younger daughter, which might have been what protected Macy. In charges related to their older daughter - a ringer was allegedly paid $15,000 to take the SATs on her behalf - only Huffman's voice is heard on the recorded call. And so, 'People' magazine ran the inane headline, "William H Macy turns 69 as wife Felicity Huffman is arrested in college admissions scam". And so 'Radar' ran an anonymously sourced article in which a family friend says Macy "didn't know the details, but he knew she was trying to do something... He wasn't fully aware of what she was planning". Truly, I'm not sure which is a worse scenario for Macy: that he blithely participated in an alleged illegal plot, or that he blithely participated in an entire phone call in which the alleged illegal plot was hatched and apparently didn't know what anyone, including himself, was talking about. I don't think it's fair to couch this scandal as a sexist problem - an issue in which women must shoulder even the felonious emotional labour. Plenty of men were indicted in the scam, which the FBI is calling "Operation Varsity Blues". Mossimo Giannuli, ie Mr Lori Loughlin, was extraordinarily dedicated in his paternal scheming. He was the primary email contact; he was the one sending photos of his daughter on an ergonomic machine to support the lie that she rowed crew. The most vomitus line in the whole indictment comes from a dad - New York attorney Gordon Caplan - who tells a witness on the phone, "To be honest, I'm not worried about the moral issue." But I do think it's fair to talk about whether gender plays a role in this saga. Whether we view the desperation of moms differently than the desperation of dads. Whether there's a reason B-lister Lori Loughlin's photo has accompanied stories about the scandal far more often than photos of her massively successful designer husband. Huffman's 'Housewives' character spent one episode trying to bribe her twins' way into a private school, BuzzFeed points out (for $15,000 - is that how Huffman knew it was the going rate?), and so, the story goes, of course Huffman would do the same in real life. In terms of outrage, the Varsity Blues affidavit reveals more egregious sins than the ones committed by Huffman. She did not, for example, shell out $500,000 and Photoshop her daughter into a water polo uniform. But in terms of moral dissonance, Felicity Huffman is the most surprising villain, and the one whose motives I keep trying to unpack. While other celebrities started lifestyle brands dedicated to jade vagina eggs (Gwyneth Paltrow) or butt-sculpting yoga pants (Kate Hudson), Huffman created the website, What The Flicka, dedicated to parenting. Specifically, to being a mom. Even more specifically, to being a real, relatable, imperfect mom. WhatTheFlicka.com is a land of sardonic coffee mugs and wine-o'clock-Wednesdays, and scented candles with names such as "Juice Cleanse" that purport to smell like "greens, mint, and regret". The articles about parenting have headlines such as "10 ways I'm totally screwing up my kids" and "10 reasons to dread summer with kids" and "9 ways parenthood is like 'Game of Thrones'." In other words, the site buys into a children-are-a-battlefield theory of parenting. Parenthood is impossible, and making it to bedtime without becoming an alcoholic is an excellent reason to reward yourself with a martini. We are all a hot mess! In Felicity's mind, did she do something at odds with her theory of motherhood, or was the alleged scamming an extension of it? Was allegedly buying her kids' way into school a twisted, privileged version of, ladies, amiright, sometimes we serve frosting for dinner and sometimes we bribe Georgetown? It was a problem to be solved, practically and without much fuss. Every woman I've gabbed with this week, at least the ones who read the whole affidavit, mentioned that breezy, cheeky line. Because in the middle of their own kids' applications, and their own work-life imbalance, and their own parenting partners who occasionally receded into the distance - SPOUSE!! - that line threw something into quick relief. It was one thing to joke about being a bad mom. It was another to actually be one. ( Washington Post) Sometimes an event comes along of sufficient evil to cast a shadow over the whole world. The carnage in Christchurch, New Zealand, was a debasement of everything we value. It is difficult to discern which was more disturbing: that a cold-blooded killer could live-stream the slaughter for 17 minutes; or that there might be an audience at ease with viewing it. To thinks that copies of the sickening footage were still being viewed 10 hours later on major platforms is truly shocking. The video was shared by a verified Instagram user in Indonesia with more than 1.6 million followers. The families of the 49 murdered innocent Muslims cut down while they prayed will have all our sympathy. Brenton Tarrant claimed his diabolical attack was "inspired" by the slaughter of innocent teenagers by Anders Breivik. He was branded an "extremist right-wing terrorist", but we should not make the mistake of looking for reason in the madness of atrocity. Hate does not carry a single label. The agency of terror respects no creed, race nor border. Opportunity is all it requires. But New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern refused to allow her country's innate humanity to be touched by the cold brutality of the gunman. Observing some of the victims may have been new immigrants or refugees, she said: "They are us. The person who has perpetuated this violence against us is not. They have no place in New Zealand." While reacting to the events, United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres highlighted the urgent need to work better globally to tackle Islamophobia. But incidents like that witnessed in Christchurch demand more than offers of consolation. Understanding the seemingly insatiable global appetite for violence is also something we need to examine. The fact that the film looked so like the video games played by millions of people every day also raises searching questions. We have created mass communications systems capable of transmitting hateful messages and images to millions within seconds without the necessary tools to control them. What's more, the requirement to moderate is also absent. This allows terrorists to extend their bandwidth to promote their twisted aims. We live in a world where the proliferation of weapons makes it harder to heal than to kill. At moments of such darkness it is hard to find any words of hope. Gandhi wrote: "When I despair, I remember that all through history the way of truth and love have always won. There have been tyrants and murderers, and for a time, they can seem invincible, but in the end, they always fall. Think of it - always." Perhaps we should. Flash New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern reiterated to the public on Saturday morning that the country's gun law will be changed. The move came after gunmen attacked two mosques in the country's second largest city Christchurch and five guns were discovered, two of which are semi-automatic guns. Other weapons and firearms were also retrieved by the police. It is understood that the killers of the terror attacks have legitimate gun license. "Our gun law will be changed," the prime minister said. So far three suspects are now in custody. They are all Australian citizens, but not in any watch list of New Zealand or Australia. A fourth arrest was not related to the killing and the person was then discharged. A 28-year old man is due to appear on Christchurch District Court on Saturday morning. The man has been charged with murder. Two others are still in custody. It is reported that the man who has been charged with murder is named Brenton Tarrant. He is an Australian National who live streamed the killing via social media. Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel spoke to the public on Saturday morning, sending her condolences to the victims and their families and the people who are affected by the attacks. "Our thoughts go to the victims and their families and everyone being affected," Dalziel said. She also acknowledged the extraordinary response from the police and first responders. "An attack on the Muslin community is an attack on us, on Christchurch and on New Zealand," Dalziel said. The mayor believed that Christchurch would go through this together. Major public events during the weekend have all been cancelled across New Zealand in the wake of the terror attacks. At least 49 people were killed and 48 others injured in the terror attacks on two mosques in Christchurch on Friday. For years I wanted to be the man who stood outside the bookies. You know the one - he always had a rolled-up copy of the Mirror, and a cigarette glued to his bottom lip. The best part of his job, I thought, was the way he'd lift the Mirror and wave it at the driver whenever a bus was passing. I must have been 13, started in secondary school, before I realised it wasn't actually a job. There was a Christian Brother holding my ear. I'd just got a Maths question wrong, even though I wasn't fully aware I'd been asked a question. He was pulling me up out of the desk, and he said, "Tell us now, Mister Savage, what career is it that you want to pursue when you slink out of school?" And I realised I didn't have a name for my dream job - the man outside the bookies. So, I roared - I yelped: "A Christian Brother, Brother!" The sound of silence. Hello, darkness my old friend. My classmates waited for my disembowelment. And so did I. But the Brother just let go of my ear, dropped me, and rolled back up to his beloved blackboard. I was a bit of a hero for the rest of the day and the lads called me Brother Savage for years afterwards. But anyway. There was always something magical about the bookies; it was a forbidden world. My father brought me and the brothers in once, into a cloud of smoke so thick I couldn't decide if there was a back wall or if the place went on forever. There were men sitting on stools and leaning against the walls. They were all looking at a speaker in a high corner and some of them were shouting at it. There was a gravelly man's voice coming from the speaker, reciting the names of horses; it was like a prayer he was in a hurry to finish. Then he stopped, and the shouting stopped, replaced by a long collective groan and all the men we could see threw these bits of paper - dockets they were called, our father told us - onto the floor. We had to wade through the dockets as our Da went up to a man who was standing under the speaker. - What are you? he asked him. - A sap, the man answered. He went on to the next man. - What are you? - I'm a sap as well. He went around all the men - there were no women - and asked the same question. - What are you? - A dope. - An eejit. - A thick. - A gom. - An out and out gobs***e. - See that, lads? he said when he'd concluded the survey. - Only saps and eejits ever come into this place and throw away their money. Then he brought us back out and told us to wait for a minute, and he went back in. He was warning us against the dangers of gambling, of course. And the warning worked - and it didn't. After that day, I never wanted to be the man who lived in the bookies; my ambition was to be the man hanging around outside. I'd go in, place the occasional bet, and leave. I've done it ever since I started earning money, and I've never gone mad. I've never won big and I've never lost a lot. I can measure the most I ever won: the price of a week in a caravan in Courtown. So, I've always enjoyed the occasional punt, more often than not on a Saturday - the hike to the bookies, the pint next door, the useless docket flung at the barman. Anyway, I was thinking of it, the world of the bookies, when I was looking at the ads on Sky Sports, the ones they always have on at half-time. The ads have always got on my wick, since I was a kid. I could never understand why they'd interrupt The Man From UNCLE or Alias Smith And Jones with stupid ads for the Irish Permanent or Maguire & Paterson's Friendly Matches. These days, the occasional ad is amusing and the cars ones are just baffling. Some of them are over before I realise I've been watching an ad for a bloody car. But I suppose I'm like most people my age: the ads are an opportunity to stick on the kettle or get up to the jacks. But the Betfair ad, the one with the young lad in the grey gear - where gut instinct meets smarts - that one just gives me the creeps. Remember: it's supposed to be about betting. But the world it depicts, it's like a cult, a secret organisation, only for the brightest and the best. Throwing your money at the bookies is glamorous and wise. I know what my father would have said about that. - It is in its hole, Charlie. The Asthma Society of Ireland is calling on primary and post primary schools in Louth to get involved in their new 'Asthma Youth Champions' programme. A panel of four young asthma ambassadors from around the country will be created as part of the programme to gather their thoughts on how asthma services can be bettered for young people in Ireland. The asthma Society will also equip these youngsters with the resources and know-how to become "Asthma Champions" and promote asthma change in their school and community. Sarah O'Connor, CEO of the Asthma Society of Ireland, said: 'The aim of our 'Asthma Youth Champions' programme is not only to allow young people to express their opinions on how asthma services need to be improved for the younger generation, but also to equip them with the resources and skills they need to promote asthma awareness and become asthma champions in their school and community.' Four deserving schools will be chosen, one from each province. From these schools one 'asthma champion' will be picked to form a 'National Asthma Youth Council.' The council will be asked to discuss a number of asthma issues that effect young people and ways in which the Asthma Society can improve their services for the youth of today. For more information on the programme and how you and your school can get involved, go to https://www.asthma.ie/news/invitation-asthma-youth-champions. Seachtain na Gaeilge was celebrated in St Oliver Plunkett Community Hospital when staff and pupils from Scoil Mhuire na nGael visited and performed traditional Irish music and dance for residents and day care visitors. The hospital was awash with colour as fifth class students from Ms Sloane's class swapped their uniforms for the Irish colours and brought song, music and dance to their older friends. This was the thirteenth year of the Muire na nGael intergenerational project, an initiative which brings together the young students and the elderly residents in St Oliver's every three weeks. A range of activities are organised throughout the year including bingo, table quizzes, arts and crafts, sing-songs, Christmas parties and magic shows. Bonds of friendships are established that long transcend the pupils' involvement in the project. 'The project has gone from strength to strength' explained Martina Rafferty, principal. 'Both young and old benefit greatly from participating in this initiative which is kindly sponsored by the Dundalk Society for Older Persons and Underprivileged Children and by Dundalk Credit Union.' The young students were joined on the visit by dancers from the McGee School of Irish Dance whose intricate dance steps wowed all in attendance. As part of the project this year a photo book 'A Moment in Time, sharing stories through pictures to bring Dundalk generations together' was developed by Joanne Daly, a parent in the school and liaison officer with the HSE. She worked in partnership with Paula Kavanagh, local photographer and the students from Muire na nGael. The photo book was presented to Marie Butler, acting Director of Nursing in the hospital. 'The photographs included in this book along with more recent photographs were presented to the residents of St. Oliver's Hospital and the 5th class students from Scoil Mhuire na nGael last November. Our friends in St. Oliver's recalled memories as they looked at photographs from years gone by and the children were all enthralled to see how Dundalk has changed over the past 50 years!' Greenore native James Larkin (right) CUSM unveils the new stamps with colleagues from the Irish Coastguard An Post has launched two new stamps acknowledging the work of the Irish Coast Guard's search and rescue operations to mark the second anniversary of the R116 tragedy this week. The stamps, designed by Vermillion Design, are based on an original painting by the late Coast Guard volunteer Caitriona Lucas. Catriona lost her life when the boat she was in capsized while searching for a missing man on 12 September 2016. The stamps are also in honour of the Coastguard's fallen comrades, those lost in the R116 tragedy, including Dundalk man Captain Mark Duffy, who perished with his crew in crash of the west coast on March 14th 2017. The paintings depict a rescue team working at sea, both in the air and on the water. The scene has been divided into two for the new An Post stamps. Debbie Byrne, Managing Director, An Post Retail paid tribute to the Coast Guard. 'Stamps mark important aspects of Irish life and these beautiful stamps acknowledge the service given by members of the Coast Guard to keep us safe when we are in or near the water. 'We also recognise the families of those Coast Guard volunteers and staff who have lost their lives.' Greenore native, James Larkin who is a Coastal UNit Sector Manager with the Irish Coastguard was among those unveiling the new stamps last week. First year students from both St. Louis Secondary School and De la Salle College enjoyed an Indiana Jones experience when the Big Dig came to town last week. The Big Dig is a simulated archaeological dig presented by School of Irish Archaeology which gives students the a hands on opportunity of excavating a replica Viking house. They were able to examine various artefacts from the Viking era, from axes to ancient tools dating back 1,000 years, giving them an insight into life in Viking times. 'The students were delighted to be involved in such an interactive and unique experience,' said Ms Olivia Sherry of St Louis who co-ordinated the event. 'This direct and practical style of learning really broadens their awareness of a diverse culture and heritage,' she continued. 'We aim to make learning an active experience as much as possible as laid out in the New Junior Cycle Guidelines. It was also very beneficial to the students in their study of history especially for the topic of "Our roots in ancient civilisation.' 'It was lovely to collaborate with our neighbours too - by working together we are able to offer more to the students in both schools, so everybody wins,' she added. And the Big Dig will be coming back to the Wee County later in the summer as it is booked for August 10 and 11 as part of the Carlingford Oyster Festival. Extra gardai are to be posted along the border Plans to post extra gardai along the border region are not Brexit related, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar confirmed last week. Reports emerged over the last few days of plans to ensure a 24 hour armed garda presence in the border counties. But, the additional policing measures are not linked to any preparations for the impact of Brexit, the Taoiseach told the Dail. Instead, he said they are set to augment armed units which already operate out of stations in Dundalk, and Ballyshannon in Donegal, and are aimed at tackling cross border crime gangs. Speaking in the Dail, Mr. Varadkar said: 'I have been informed by An Garda Siochana that in 2018, a cross-Border threat assessment was prepared jointly by An Garda Siochana and the PSNI. This assessment estimated that some 43% of organised crime gangs in Northern Ireland have a cross-Border dimension. Likewise mobile, organised crime groups responsible for multiple serious incidences of domestic burglary operate on an all-island basis.' He added: 'There are also increasing incidences of borderless crimes such as cyberfraud and international terrorism. This is the context in which the Garda Commissioner made an operational decision to establish another regional armed support unit, which will be based in County Cavan.' 'The Commissioner has now established armed support units in each of the six Garda regions to provide an armed response capacity and capability on a regional basis to support and supplement the national emergency response unit. In the northern region ASUs are currently based in Ballyshannon and Dundalk Garda stations serving all Garda divisions comprising the northern region.' It was reported by the Irish Independent last week that training has almost been completed for additional officers to expand two existing units in order to allow gardai to provide a 24-hour armed service in the border counties. Meanwhile, up to one-third of all probationers graduating out of the Garda College in Templemore are expected be allocated to the four divisions in the border region. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said during a Dail debate: 'I understand that a further 49 newly attested gardai will be assigned to the northern region, which comprises the Border counties, but not the actual physical Border itself, which of course does not exist.' 'There is close and ongoing co-operation between An Garda Siochana and the PSNI. This measure consists of additional gardai and an additional armed support unit for what are the Border counties, but not the Border per se. I believe this will be welcomed by people, in particular by those who have been subjected to burglaries, in that region.' Lisa Smith pictured during her passing out parade with the Irish Army Dundalk woman Lisa Smith is at the centre of an international storm this week after she was detained in northern Syria on suspicion of association with Isis. News of the Dundalk woman's detention emerged at the weekend after it was reported she and her toddler son were among the families of Islamic State fighters fleeing the Baghouz area, the last stronghold for the Islamic State. Her future, and that of her young son, remains unclear today (Tuesday) as she is said to be held in an area where there is no Irish consulate. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said yesterday that Lisa (37) will be allowed to return home, as it is the 'compassionate thing' to do, Mr Varadkar moved to assure the public that a full security assessment will take place before the Dundalk woman is allowed back into the country. He said that as an Irish citizen, she would not be left to 'fend for herself in one of the world's most war torn regions.' The shocking news that the Dundalk woman had travelled to Syria was first known a number of years ago, the Argus has learned. Although her exact whereabouts in the conflict zone were not known, it is understood that her family had grave concerns for her safety. Her extensive background in the Defence Forces also raised security concerns. But it appears that little was known of the Dundalk woman's experiences in Syria until recent weeks. The appearance of a woman dressed in a burka with an Irish accent on an ITV report, speaking from a refugee camp in northern Syria was confirmed to be Lisa Smith. She was shown tending to her young son, amid the squalid conditions of the refugee camp. Lisa's early career in the 27th Battalion had been widely covered in the Argus during her time in the military. She was among the first wave of Irish women who joined in the early 2000's, when female soldiers were being given an opportunity to serve on the 'front line' on peacekeeping missions around the world. The Argus chronicled the journey Lisa and other female recruits made through their training, and featured her passing out parade, where Lisa is shown in our photographs (right) at a weapons display in October 2001. She is understood to haveserved at Aiken Barracks for five years before applying to be transferred to the Air Corps, where she worked on the government jet, travelling with then Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, and other government ministers of that time. Former Foreign Affairs Minister, Dermot Ahern spoke over the last few days about his memory of the Dundalk woman who served on the government aircraft. But, in the years that followed she converted to Islam, and is said to have left the Defence Forces around 2011 after ten years of service. After that she was regularly seen in an around Dundalk dressed in a full burka, and did not hide her conversion to the Islamic faith Around this time she is believed to have turned her back on modern ideals, and the lifestyle she had once enjoyed. But the reasons behind her decision to travel to Syria and support the Islamic State in 2015 are not yet known. She is reported to have married a British man in Syria, who fought for Isis, and gave birth to a son. But as the strongholds of Isis were breached by US backed Syrian troops over the last few months, many families of Isis fighters have founds themselves homeless, and being held in detention camps. It is understood she and her two-year-old child are currently in the Al-Hawl refugee camp along with about 500 other wives and children of Islamic State (Isis) fighters. Speaking yesterday, the Taoiseach Varadkar said: 'We still don't have full information about this case. Each of these cases is going to have to be treated differently.' He added that it was 'very possible' that the Dundalk woman 'wasn't a combatant'.' 'Going to Syria or going to live in what was called Islamic State is not in itself an offence or a crime. So we will need to carry out an investigation. I know the authorities there will want to interrogate her to see if she has been involved in any crimes there. But it's very possible that wasn't a combatant. We really need to get to the bottom of the facts here. Carry out a security assessment to see if the Syrian authorities want to carry out a prosecution or not. But ultimately this is an Irish citizen and we don't believe that removing an Irish citizen's citizenship from her or her family, rendering them stateless, would be either the right or compassionate thing to do.' As an Irish citizen, she will have the right to return to Ireland as will her child. But as an Irish citizen, it's not just as simple as coming here and proceeding as if nothing had happened. There will need to be an interrogation by the authorities there. There may need to be a prosecution there. And we'll make sure that if she returns to Ireland, she isn't a threat to anybody.' Jackie McKenna, Garda Inspector Ronan Carey,Anna Quigley, Ger Doherty and Gwen McKenna at the information awareness seminar in the Family Addiction Support Centre, Lios Dubh The Dundalk based Family Addiction Support Network (FASN) work directly with families who are facing intimidation and threats from ruthless drug dealers, a meeting of the Dundalk Joint Policing Committee heard. Cllr. Mark Dearey, who sits on the board of FASN told the meeting 'We are very lucky to have the Family Addiction Support Network in Dundalk.' He added: 'They come across families who are facing these situations on a regular basis, and are trained in dealing with these cases. ' 'They are trained people, who understand the impact of intimidation.' He said that the FASN staff have a good liaison with gardai, and can work with them when needed. The Family Addiction Support Network recently opened its doors to host a public information event in their Lios Dubh centre Chairperson of the Family Addiction Support Network, Jackie Mc Kenna, explained that it had been organised to firstly support the International Family Support Day which was an initiative to create global awareness around family support. 'Whether it's Dundalk, Dublin, Newry, or in Holland, Hong Kong or New York, the effect of substance misuse on the family is the same worldwide,' said Jackie. She also spoke of the importance of introducing those attending the seminar to the work of the Family Addiction Support Network helping them to understand the necessity of families being supported and included in the treatment and rehabilitation of their loved one. She said it was 'important to create public awareness of the impact of drug-related violence/intimidation has on the local communities in which drug dealers live and operate and the huge pressure it puts on families.' 'Collectively, we need to break down the stigma and isolation experienced by drug users and their families within our communities which often creates barriers to them accessing support.' She added that there was a real need 'to create an environment that offered compassion and support instead of judgement and exclusion.' Councillors earned 779,311 in representational payments and expenses in 2018 according to recently released Louth County Council figures. Each of the 29 councillors received 16,867 in representational payments, which are subject to PAYE, PRSI and other statutory deductions. They also received a new allocation of 1,499.96 for being members of municipal district committees, while there are allowances for councillors who chair the County Council, Municipal Districts and Strategic Policy Committees. Councillors also receive allowances for attending meetings and official functions, and for broadband and phone expenses. Figures obtained by this newspaper reveal the highest earner for the year was Dromiskin Cllr Liam Reilly who was paid 37,345 before tax. The Fianna Fail councillor's payment included 11,664 for being chairman of Louth County Council for half the year and 2,500 for chairing a municipal district. He received 3,982 in expenses and a broadband and phone allowance of 506. The second highest earner was Dundalk man Cllr John McGahon who earned 35,685 before tax. The Fine Gael councillor was paid 5,000 as chair of the Dundalk Municipal District and 3,500 for his time as chair of a Strategic Policy Committee. He also received 6,592 in expenses, 506 allowance for phone and broadband, while 585 was spent so he could attend conferences in Ireland and he received 808 for training. In third place was Drogheda's Labour Cllr Pio Smith was paid 33,446.88 before tax, which included a 5,000 payment for chairing the Drogheda Municipal District and a 1,666 allowances for being vice-chairman of Louth County Council. He also received expenses of 8,096 and 417 for broadband and telephone, and was paid 700 for attending conferences in Ireland and 3,116 expenses for training. Independent Cllr Frank Godfrey received 31,886 before tax, which included an allowance 7,000 as chair of the Drogheda Municipal District and expenses of 5,263 , with 417 for broadband and phone and 502 to allow him avail of training. Former chairman Colm Markey was paid 31,598 before tax, which included an 8,333 allowance for his term as chairperson of Louth County Council and 2,500 as Municipal District chair. The Fine Gael councillor's expenses came to 1,907 with 417 for broadband and phone while he clocked up 2,191 for foreign travel for when he travelled to New York for the St Patrick's Day celebrations. Fianna Fail's Cllr Conor Keelan received 31,048 before tax, including a 7,000 allowance for chairing the Municipal District of Dundalk , 4,133 expenses and 417 for broadband and phone. He was the only other councillor to claim for overseas travel, getting 562 for a visit to Spain, and also received 485 for training. Drogheda Cllr Joanna Byrne was the highest earning Sinn Fein councillor, receiving 30,306 before tax. This included a 6,000 allocation for chairing a Strategic Policy Committee, 5,196 expenses, and a broadband and phone allowance of 417. The total spent on councillors came to 779,311, which was up on last year's spend of 710,933.19. This year's figure included a new category of allowances for memberships of the municipal district committees which came to 43,498.84 for all 29 councillors. The Department for Local Government said this is in order to reflect the additional work of and expenses incurred by councillors since the introduction of reforms in the Local Government Act (2014), which reduced the number by 41 per cent (from 1,627 to 949). According to the figures, representational payments came to 489,152.86 and members expenses came to 131,757.14 Training expenses came to 14,313.96 and 1,385.41 was spent on enabling councillors to attend conferences in Ireland. Training is provided to councillors by the Association of Local Government in Ireland and the Local Authority Members Association, while conference fees are paid directly to conference organisers and not to members. In recent years, many councillors have opted not to attend conferences and to allocate their allowances so that they can give funding to local community groups. The total allowance for broadband and phone came to 11,466.67. Councillors receive a monthly allowance for attendance at monthly, annual, Special Policy Committee, Budget, Organisation Procedure & Protocol, deputations and special meetings as part of their representational role. This allowance is subject to the rates and rules of the Annual Expenses Allowance, as set out under Local Government (expenses of Local Authority Members) Regulations 2014 (S.I. No. 236 of 2014) (as amended). Five councillors were in receipt of Special Policy Committee chairperson payments. Cllrs Joanna Byrne, Edel Corrigan, Mark Dearey all received 6,000, while Cllrs John McGahon got 3,500 and Maria Doyle received 2,500. The chairs of the Municipal Districts received a total of 30,000 with payments to Cllr Frank Godfrey (7,000), Conor Keelan (7,000), John McGahon (5,000),Pearse McGeough (3,500), Liam Reilly (2,500) and Pio Smith (5,000). Members of the Colaiste Craobh Abhann Players in final rehearsals for Of Mice and Men, which they will present in the Castle Inn Theatre from Wednesday, March 20 to Friday, March 22: (from left) Colm Flynn (Candy), Erika Bellamy (Curleys Wife), Sean Douglas (Curley), Ciaran Crimes (Slim), Ryan Brennan (Lenny), Hyrum Scott (George), Jerimiah Scott (Carlson) and Reme Atiyota (Crooks) Colaiste Craobh Abhann Players will present their award-winning play 'Of Mice and Men' at the Castle Inn in Newcastle, from Wednesday to Friday, March 20 to 22, at 7.30 p.m. each night. This is the latest production by the CCA Players, which was founded back in 2005. This is their 11th production overall, and their sixth to be staged in the Castle Inn Theatre. Past plays have included 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest', '12 Angry Jurors,' 'Sive', 'The Dumb Waiter' and 'Shadow of a Gunman.' Their versions of 'Burke and Hare' (2014) and 'Shadow of a Gunman (2015) were short-listed in the top four national student productions in the Bord Gais National Theatre Awards. Their production of 'I Do Not like Thee Dr Fell' also won best senior play in the Arklow Theatre Festival in 2009. This year, their production of 'Of Mice and Men' won a number of awards in the 2019 Arklow Senior Theatre Festival. They included best actress (Erika Bellamy), best supporting actor, (Ryan Noronha Brennan) and best actor (Reme Atiyota). The play also won best direction and best overall play. The cast were presented with The Gerard Hudson Cup by Judge Mary Finnegan and were praised for their 'excellent acting' and their 'emotional and polished performance'. Ms Finnegan that she had seen a number of professional productions of the play in the past and the CCA Players' production could stand alongside them all. John Steinbeck's novella Of Mice and Men is set during the Great Depression in California, and tells the lonely and tragic story of George and Lennie, two migrant ranchers looking to find a piece of The American Dream. This famous work of literature is now a text on the Junior Cert English curriculum, with the CCA Players' production being an original adaptation of the novella, directed by English teachers Sean O Suilleabhain and Sharon Nolan. Tickets are 5 and available from The Castle Inn, from the school or by emailing seanosuilleabhain@wicklowvec.ie. Pupils at Bray School Project made their voices heard for climate change last week at their school. The 5th and 6th class boys and girls made posters highlighting their views on environmentalism, and stood outside the school to display their work. They were inspired by Swedish schoolgirl Greta Thunberg, whose 'climate strike action' is being followed by children all over the world. Secondary school students in Bray and north Wicklow will be holding a peaceful protest outside Dail Eireann this Friday to act on climate change. The primary school children worked hard on learning about climate change, the risks to the planet, and creating their banners, and they received a lot of support and encouragement from passers-by. Students from nearby North Wicklow Educate Together will be among those travelling to Dublin on Friday to protest along with many other students from different schools. 'We want to act on climate change because it is affecting people all over the world,' said one student. 'In Ireland, the weather is getting more severe and species are dying. We want to make a difference.' Last week, some of the NWETSS students appeared on the Late Late Show to talk about the student strike. Others presented their climate action demands to politicians in the Dail last Wednesday. Their younger peers are just as passionate about the subject matter and hope to help make the world and the environment a better place for their own future. Purple House Cancer Support is the latest charity to benefit from Aldi's Community Grants programme. Aldi's Bray staff have awarded Purple House Cancer Support a 500 grant in recognition of its tremendous work within the local community and to help support its vital services. The 500 grant was presented to Brendan O'Leary, Margaret Byrne and John Woods of Purple House Cancer Support by Mircea Ciomea, Aldi's Bray store 'Charity Champion'. Now in its third year, hundreds of charities have been supported by the programme, with over 200,000 donated by Aldi. John Curtin, Group Buying Director, Aldi Ireland, said: 'We are delighted our Bray store employees have chosen to support Purple House Cancer Support. The services it provides to people affected by cancer and their families make a huge difference. Supporting the local communities our stores serve is something that we truly believe in. Through our Community Grants programme and partnerships with both FoodCloud and youth organisation Foroige, we have been able to directly help many of the worthwhile charities and organisations making a huge difference to County Wicklow.' A new library dedicated to beekeeping and honouring the late Michael Giles was officially opened on Saturday in Ashford Community and Heritage Centre. Michael Giles was a long-standing executive member of the Ashford and District Beekeepers Association who sadly passed away late last year. Michael loved nothing more than sharing his knowledge with others and as a final gesture he bequeathed his substantial library of bee-related books to the Association which will be permanently housed in the Heritage Room at the Community Centre in Ashford. Michael's wife Marion Giles was present for the opening along with other family members, including some of his grandchildren. Micheal Mac Giolla Coda, a fourth generation beekeeper from Cork, officially opened the new library, accompanied by his daughter Aoife Nic Giolla Coda. Michelle O'Connor, Chairperson of Ashford and District Beekeepers Association, paid tribute to Michael's contribution to the association. She said: 'Michael was very generous in sharing his knowledge of beekeeping with everyone and he was particularly interested in saving the native black Irish honey bee. He always placed a strong emphasis on education. Before he sadly passed away he bequeathed us all his books. This will be the only library in the county dedicated to bees and we hope to add to it over time so it becomes a resource for future generations.' Applications of interest for the 2019/2020 Pure Mile are now closed due to an unprecedented number of groups entering. There are over 280 miles - consisting of roads, upland areas, mountains, valleys, woodlands and beaches - signed up to the project. Due to this high number, the project is unfortunately unable to accept anymore applications. Ian Davis, Manager of Pure, said: 'The Pure Mile has been a great success and all credit goes to the numerous groups involved in the project. There are so many beautiful areas in county Wicklow and each one has something unique and interesting to offer. The groups that take part in the Pure Mile really make a difference to the areas they live in, or recreate in, and the amount of applications and interest this year has been amazing.' The Pure Mile encourages communities and groups living in rural areas to adopt a mile, or miles of road, and work together to keep these areas litter and rubbish free. Groups also research information about their local wild flowers, plants, trees and animals. Other projects focus on the history and folklore or the built, cultural and social heritage of the area. Mr Davis is currently meeting all of the groups involved in this years project and a huge number of litter picks, clean-ups, anti-dumping initiatives, heritage projects and special events have already taken place, with plenty more planned for the next couple of years. All groups who enter the Pure Mile are invited to the Pure Mile Gala Event and will receive a Certificate of Participation, a selection of Native Irish Trees, and feature in the Pure Mile Calendar. The lease on North Wicklow Educate Together's temporary premises has been extended to at least June 2020 as the school awaits a permanent home. The Department of Education and Skills announced last week that agreement had been reached, as the current lease was due to expire on April 30 and a new building has not yet been provided. Principal of the school Jonathan Browner said that staff and students and their families are all relieved to have received this news. 'My understanding with regard to a permanent building is that the Minister has directed KWETB to cooperate with architectural planning around the site on Novara Road,' said Mr Browner. 'We are now calling for the department to get on with the planning and the building of the school.' He said that the site was chosen by the department, not by the school, although they are very happy with the site. 'We acknowledge the concerns others may have but we think they can be addressed. I think there is room for people ot talk and cooperate on what is best for all of the students of north County Wicklow. We are open to talk about how everyone can cooperate in making it a big success.' 'Getting agreement on extending the lease was not straightforward as there was a High Court settlement between the owner of the temporary premises where NWETSS is currently located and the KWETB dating from 2015,' said Deputy John Brady. 'Vacant possession of that premises on 30 April 2019 was included in the settlement. To further complicate the situation the site where the school is located was also for sale.' The department looked at a number of alternative options and carried out site visits to ensure that a contingency plan was in place if the lease could not be extended. Deputy Brady said, however, that the department had 'left it essentially to the 12th hour and that caused fear and anxiety for many'. NEWTSS opened in September 2016 in temporary accommodation on Putland Road. The school has 180 pupils and 60 of those are due to do their Junior Cert next year. The school is expected to have a total of 300 pupils next September and ultimately have 1,000 pupils at permanent accommodation. 'While the latest change is a welcome reprieve there are still long-term concerns for NWETS,' said Deputy Stephen Donnelly. 'The Minister for Education has indicated it is his "clear intention" that the school will still move to a newly-built, permanent residence on the Novara Road in Bray on the campus of Bray Institute of Further Education,' said Deputy Donnelly. 'However there has been little progress on the move and the lack of information is making people anxious.' The Kildare Wicklow Education and Training Board said last year that it does not wish to have the new secondary school building co-located on the campus of BIFE. Sister Orla Treacy (front row, second from right) with the other nine International Women of Courage, Melania Trump and other dignitaries. Bray native Sr Orla Treacy was presented with an International Women of Courage award last Thursday in Washington, by American First Lady Melania Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. She received the award for her fearless work for young people and commitment to education in war-torn Sudan. 'We are so proud of her, as are all of the people of Bray,' said her fellow Loreto sister Chris Goodman. 'Everyone knows Orla, and it's just such extraordinary work, and really dealing with trauma every day of the week. 'It's so well deserved. She is made of strong stuff. She really is a woman of courage. You just can't imagine what it's like to live in those conditions. Sr Orla was one of 10 women from around the world who received the award, having demonstrated exceptional courage and leadership in advocating for peace, justice, human rights, gender equality, and women's empowerment, often at great personal risk and sacrifice. Sr Orla, a member of the Loreto congregation and past-pupil of Loreto Bray, works in conflict-torn South Sudan. She was nominated by the US Ambassador to the Holy See, Callista Gingrich. 'We are absolutely thrilled. It's a fantastic honour for Orla and particularly for the mission in Rumbek,' said Sr Chris. Hunger, disease, lack of education and forced marriage are among the many dangers that young people face in their uncertain lives in the African country, all against a backdrop of civil war. 'War is not just about who is being killed,' Sr Orla told a group of Loreto Bray girls in 2017. 'It's about who has lost their home, who is dying from disease, and about hunger.' Sister Orla attended Loreto until 1991 and lived on Herbert Road in Bray. Her father Blaise Treacy is a former Wicklow County Manager. Born in Ireland in 1973, Sister Orla Treacy was, at a young age, inspired by the lives of service and compassion of her teachers who were religious sisters. After studying to become a teacher of religion, she joined the congregation of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM), known as the Loreto Sisters. In 2006, while teaching and offering pastoral care in Ireland, she joined other Loreto Sisters who were starting a new mission in Rumbek, South Sudan-an area besieged by civil war and violent inter-clan conflict. Touched by the plight of girls who were being forced into early marriage and denied the right to an education, she took action. Sister Orla and the Loreto Sisters started a girls-only boarding school with 35 students. 'I did visit very briefly some years ago,' said Sr Chris. 'You are up against cultural traditions, but it's very much part of what we're about in terms of education, particularly the education of girls. She represents everything of what Loreto is about.' Today, Sr Orla serves as the head administrator of the Loreto Rumbek Mission in Maker Kuei, overseeing a boarding secondary school for girls, a co-educational primary school, and a women and child-centric primary healthcare facility. Despite the devastating consequences of war in Rumbek, and the many barriers to women and girls in the community, Sister Orla remains filled with hope, and the Loreto Schools stand as a beacon of light for future South Sudanese generations. She continues to work in faith, striving for a world in which girls are not forced into marriage, are allowed to complete their education, and can pursue their dreams. In 2017, Sr Orla was given the Hugh O'Flaherty International Humanitarian Award in recognition of her courageous and inspiring work in South Sudan, Jerry O'Grady, Chairman of the Hugh O'Flaherty Memorial Society in Killarney has sent his and his members' 'heartfelt congratulations to Sr Orla on receiving this wonderful international honour'. Having taken a few days to go to Washington for the ceremony, the Bray native is continuing her tertianship now in Ireland. The practice is customary among Loreto nuns, who take time out from their careers ten to 15 years after making their final profession, stepping back to take time for reflection, prayer and pilgrimage. Sr Orla and seven others in the group are around half way through the eight-month programme. Staff from Kelly Recovery work to right the overturned truck at the roundabout at La Vallee while their colleagues help firefighters to clear debris and the gardai direct traffic A lorry overturned on the roundabout at La Vallee last Thursday morning, the same location where a similar incident occurred in March 2018. Last year, it was a cement truck which lost balance on the turn around the roundabout. Emergency services attended the scene, including the gardai, Bray fire brigade, and Kelly Recovery. There were no injuries incurred in the crash. The road was blocked for a number of hours as those at the scene worked to right and remove the overbalanced vehicle and clear debris from the area. The incident occurred after 9 a.m. as the truck came off the N11 at junction 6. Upper Dargle Road was rendered impassable. A traffic management plan was put in place to deal with the blocked road and there was some disruption to traffic as a result of the crash. The roundabout is located at the entrance to the apartment complexes La Vallee and Rivervale. A spokesman for Bray Municipal District said that while he was aware of the collision he was not aware at this time of any plans by the engineers to examine the road. Transition Year students of CBS Secondary School, Charleville are set to bring an important period in the history of Limerick City to the stage in a play entitled 'Baby Soviets', written by Tomas Og O Ceilleachair and produced in association with the Limerick Youth Theatre, directed by artistic director Fiona Quinn. The play recalls the general strike of April 1919 in Limerick city, which was against British militarism and is one of the most important events of the War of Independence. Following the tragic death of a Republican hunger striker and the imposition of martial law on the city, trade unionists and local Republicans combined to organise what became known worldwide as 'The Limerick Soviet'. They ran the city for two weeks, fed the population, printed currency and published a daily newspaper. Eventually, the military restrictions were lifted and work was resumed in two phases. The play is set in Limerick City, April 1919, with the events of the Soviet pushing the story on. It focuses on three fictional characters: Peggy Ryan, who is played by Maeve Bartley from the St. John the Baptist School Hospital, Co. Limerick, and is the only female in the otherwise all male cast, Christy Collins and British soldier, James McAllister. The arrival of a fourth person, American journalist Martha Browne, means that characters are forced to face difficult decisions and choose the path that they will take as the War of Independence continues. 'Baby Soviets' has a cast of 24 students and is running for two nights, with a different cast each night. Directed by Fiona Quinn of the Limerick Youth Theatre, the show will be performed in Charleville's Community Hall opening on Thursday, March 28th at 7.30pm, with matinees for schools. Tickets are available from the CBS Secondary School and at the door. Events may also be followed on the school Twitter feed. The school play is part of the Create Engagement programme for school students which is run under the auspices of the National Association of Principals and Deputies (NAPD) and funded by the Department of Education and the Department of Arts and Culture. The programme's founder, Mary Hanley of Shannon, explained that it is designed to encourage Transition Year students to engage in a creative discipline and is non-competitive. Creative Engagement is now in its 20th year and Charleville CBS Secondary School have been participating in the programme for the past five years under the direction of the school's co-ordinator, Mary Mulroe. They have collaborated with the students of the John the Baptist School in Hospital, Co. Limerick and with those at St. Joseph's Foundation, Charleville in past productions, and in association with the Kilmallock based Limerick Youth Theatre's artistic director Fiona Quinn. Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Patrick Gerard Murphy along with Deputy Mayor Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley will lead a delegation to the US for this year's St. Patrick's Day celebrations. The Cork County delegation will visit three US cities; Chicago, Detroit and New York. The focus of the trip will be both to promote Cork as an attractive destination with top class visitor attractions, conference facilities and amenities as well as continuing to build upon and strengthen the connections between County Cork and the United States. One of the highlights of the visit will be the signing of a Friendship Agreement between the City of Detroit and the County of Cork. This agreement will facilitate Cork and Detroit in fostering international cooperation programmes together with providing significant potential for boosting tourism, investment and trade through collaboration between both regions. The Chicago visit will mark the 20th anniversary of the establishment of a similar Friendship Agreement signed between Cook County and Cork County in 1999. Over the last two decades this agreement has served to foster international trade and develop and strengthen relations between companies, institutions, organisations and individual entrepreneurs, particularly in the Information Technology, Biotechnology and Tourism sectors. One of the key fruits of this collaborative partnership was the establishment of the Cork Convention Bureau in 2007. In New York, Deputy Mayor Mary Linehan Foley will address the Cork New York Association and carry out other formal engagements including meeting with representatives from the Irish Arts Centre, Failte Ireland and the Consul General, ensuring that Cork's abundant offering is promoted extensively. Mayor Murphy notes the importance of the trip in terms of International relations, trade and foreign investment, "Friendship Agreements, like the one we are entering into with the City of Detroit, open up vast opportunities for our County, from introducing Cork companies to the US market to generating extensive growth in business tourism and much more. Our key mission on this trip is to maximise the potential of the links we have forged and continue to grow between Cork County and the United States. Cork is now competing on a global stage and the relationships we build internationally are fundamental to our economic success." Mayor Murphy went on to say, "Cork is uniquely positioned at the beginning of the Failte Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland's Ancient East and is the gateway to Ireland's most renowned tourist-attractions such as Mizen Head, the Old Head of Kinsale, Blarney Castle and Jameson Whiskey Distillery. St. Patrick's Day attracts levels of publicity and media attention unmatched by the national day of any other country and provides a unique opportunity to promote our beautiful region, showcasing Cork, and Ireland, from both a tourism and investment perspective. " Cork County Council said they are proud to sponsor a prize winning Mitchelstown students upcoming trip to Europe Ava Lawton - a Transition Year student at Presentation Secondary School in Mitchelstown - is set to travel to Brussels, Luxembourg and Strasbourg after winning a top prize in the weekly Graduate.ie online citizenship and democracy quiz. Ava will join 24 other students from Ireland on the educational trip during which they will represent Ireland in Euroscola - a youth EU Parliament. During the trip they will get an opportunity to debate issues and ask their questions directly to a Member of the European Parliament. Among the topics discussed last year were the consequences of Brexit on member states; the influence of lobbying on EU Legislation and the measures and timeline of the Paris Agreement on climate change. Mayor of County Cork Cllr Patrick Gerard Murphy congratulated Ava on her achievement. "it's wonderful to see the level of engagement that young people in Cork have with their local and global communities," said Mayor Murphy. "Participating in youth politics and community activity at a young age demonstrates remarkable maturity, generosity and strength of character,2 he said. "On behalf of Cork County Council, I am extremely proud to sponsor Ava's trip to Strasbourg. I am sure that both Ava and her community will benefit greatly from the experience," said the Mayor. As well as her interest in European affairs Ava is also an active participant in Comhairle na nOg, which provides young people with a voice in local politics. In recent years, Cork County's Comhairle has advocated on issues varying from rural transportation to sexual education and cyber security. In 2019 they will be tackling issues around school pressure and stress. Junior Minister Jim Daly has said he was hoping to bring legislation making the Fair Deal nursing home scheme more equitable for farming families and business owners in front of the Oireachtas before the end of the year. Minister Daly raised the issue at a public meeting in the Fermoy Youth Centre organised by Cork East Fine Gael general election candidate Pa O'Driscoll to discuss services for older people. His comments follow on from a Government commitment last August to implement changes to the scheme recommended in a 2015 review of its workings undertaken by the Department of Health. The report said that consideration should be given to the capping of nursing home costs against the value of a farm or business that was being transferred to its owners children. It deemed as "reasonable" a view expressed by the Irish Farmers Association (IFA) that the existing rules of the scheme placed a significant burden on farming families. Under the existing scheme rules, elderly people are eligible to receive funding from the HSE's Nursing Homes Support (Fail Deal) Scheme, to help fund their long term care. Applicants must contribute up to 80 per cent of their assessable income and 7.5 per cent of the value of the value of their assets per year, which in the case of property can be collected from their estate after they die. However, it has been claimed the scheme actively discriminated against farmers and small business holders who have to pay a capital sum, based on a percentage of the value of their farm or business, against nursing home care. While individuals with family homes only pay the percentage charge for a period of three years, farmers and business owners continue to be liable every year for the duration of their care. The authors of the report acknowledged the current rules created what they described as "real difficulties" in certain circumstances. "At present both the income generated and the capital value are used as a basis for contributions. The resultant dilution of equity in the capital asset, particularly in circumstances where the three year cap does not apply, can cause real difficulties for farming and other families," read the report. "Further consideration will be given to the application of the asset-based contribution to family farms or other family businesses where the relevant asset generates a household's income, and where the asset would in the normal course pass on to the next generation as a primary income source," it said. Minister Daly said he was working on amending the conditions of the scheme so that farms and business would be limited to a three year contribution in line with family homes. While he did stress the change would take time to draw up and would need approval from the Minister of Finance, Minister Daly said he hoped that the process could be completed before the end of 2019. Welcoming the commitment Mr O'Driscoll said it would remove a great deal of stress from affected families and allow them to plan for the future. "It will allow them to continue to run the family business without the fear of losing it," he said. Other issues addressed at the meeting included the provision of sheltered housing for older people, pensions, rural transport and mental health facilities. "The wide range of views and contributions from the floor were very informative and it was readily apparent that Minister Daly has clear views on the future of Fair Deal and housing schemes for older people," said Mr O'Driscoll. "It was good for him to share these with people who are working in the north Cork area to provide support to older people and to hear feedback from them," he added. A 42-year-old man has failed in his appeal against a nine month jail term imposed for stealing 700 from an elderly North Cork man whom he had duped into handing over cash so that he could 'check it' to make sure that the money wasn't counterfeit. John 'Buddy' O'Brien, a native of Clash Road, Abbeyfeale, County Limerick, had lodged an appeal against the jail term imposed in October 2018 for stealing the cash from Dr Jack Burke at O'Keeffe's Supervalu Car Park in Newmarket, on January 19 2017. When the appeal case was called at Mallow Circuit Court on Tuesday, solicitor Cathal Lombard introduced a faxed medical certificate from Mr O'Brien's solicitor in Dublin stating that a member O'Brien's family was ill and he applied to have the case adjourned. However, Judge Brian O'Callaghan refused to adjourn the matter and instead struck out the appeal and affirmed the nine month jail sentence imposed on O'Brien, whose addresses were given as Barrack St in Waterford and Ballyspillane, Killarney, County Kerry, Dr Burke (99) had told Mallow District Court last October how he had gone to do his shopping at Supervalu and as he was walking from his car towards the rear shop entrance a man drove into the car park and beckoned him to approach him. "He said he wanted to see me for a minute - he said there was some trouble with notes -he said he was a police man and he showed me an identification document and a badge," said Dr Burke. "He asked me had I any notes on me because there were a lot of forged notes going around ... I took out 700 that I had on me ... and he said he wanted to take a look at them to see if they were forged notes, and the minute he got them in his hands he was gone." Det Garda Padraig Reddington said the matter was reported to gardai and he downloaded CCTV footage from Supervalu which captured the incident but was not of sufficient quality to allow gardai identify the thief or the number plates on his car but they were able to identify the car as a Volvo S 40. Det Garda Reddington then pursued a detailed investigation, tracking down the car - which had been recently sold by a man in Cobh - and then following O'Brien's mobile phone signals around Kerry, Limerick and Cork on the day of the robbery of Dr Burke. Gardai also obtained CCTV footage from a number of sites in Kerry, Cork and Waterford, featuring a man matching O'Brien's description. In the original case, cross-examined by O'Brien's barrister, Eugene Manley BL, Det Garda Reddington agreed it was not possible to identify the driver of the Volvo or the car Reg No from the Supervalu CCTV footage but the location of the insurance and tax discs and alloy wheels matched the Volvo bought by O'Brien. Mr Manley said that there had to be serious doubts about the identification of his client but Insp Tony O'Sullivan said he believed there was enough evidence to convict O'Brien of the theft charge, and Judge Brian Sheridan agreed. It then emerged that O'Brien had 109 previous convictions including five for theft, 23 for larceny and four for impersonating a garda. Drogheda Brass Band will lead the 2019 St Patrick's Day parade in Drogheda! The All-Ireland award-winning band, which was formed in 1886, has participated in the parade as long as the parade has taken place in the town! Bands are the centre point of this year's parade, with 6 in total taking part, including the local Lourdes Brass Band, as well as a number from Northern Ireland. Colour and music is behind the parade, which has 'Drogheda into the future 2019' as its theme. Approximately 70 community groups, clubs, societies and local businesses take part in Drogheda's parade, led by a colour parade from the ONE, Order of Ex-servicemen. Many of Drogheda's newest residents will take part, displaying culture from various parts of the world. A special Mass for deceased members of the parade committee and Grand Marshals takes place in The Dominican church at 6pm on Saturday 16 March. Fr Jim Donleavy has supported the parade and facilitated it over the years, will give a special blessing to the parade and participants. Due to health & safety concerns, performance has been cut out along the parade route this year, according to a committee spokesperson. 'The Gardai have advised us that due to Health & Safety regulations, we cannot allow our dancers or gymnasts to perform as they march along the route,' said the committee member. 'It's unfortunate, as people do enjoy watching the Irish dancers or other performance schools, but this causes delays and gaps in the parade, and can be unsafe as other groups catch up. So we are appealing to groups to show themselves off, keep on marching, and ensure that the parade moves along smoothly together. It's out of our hands at this stage, and we hope to see all our participants from Drogheda, Louth, Meath and further afield, taking part again on Sunday at 12 noon.' Participants should gather at the O'Raghallaigh's GFC club on the North Road by 10.30am to collect their numbers and get put into allocated placings. Late entries are still being accepted - contact secretary Jayne O'Brien on 087-7561518. Email jayneobrien@gmail.com . The parade will commence at 12 noon from Mother Hughes pub on the North Road, and will follow the usual route along Fair Street and down Peter Street and Shop Street, turning onto the quay where the reviewing stand is located, before dispersing on North Quay There was an air of defiance, above everything, at last week's Joint Policing Meeting, with a belief amongst some speakers that if people living in council owned homes are involved in criminality then they will lose the house over their heads. It is seen as a real tool in the war between those engaging in anti-social and violent behaviour and ordinary, decent local people, too afraid to leave their homes. And the meeting, held in the Millmount, heard that no one estate is free of issues. Cllr David Saurin pulled no punches. 'The council need to step up and those living in council estates have to know that there's consequences.' he stated. He said some were holding estates ' to ransom' and they needed to be evicted, 'thrown out of the communities they are destroying.' Mayor Frank Godfrey said evictions were the only answer. 'People are afraid to go out of their homes at night, afraid to go to bingo.' He said he was threatened himself in the past. 'People causing problems should be evicted from their houses,' he believed. Chief Supt Christopher Mangan said that the gardai would talk to the council about such evictions and they could supply 'any information that the council may need.' He said there should be 'serious consequences' for those involved in criminality. He said that residents must be protected and allowed to live their lives. He recalled a recent meeting and residents from Moneymore attended. It struck a cord with him when he said that he was told that children didn't go out to play anymore. They were afraid. 'That is sad,' he added. Cllr Paul Bell was quick to comment that 'criminal activities resides in a lot of nice leafy estates too.' He said people had become disillusioned with the authorities in many ways, not least around Rathmullen and Ballsgrove, where residents have asked for CCTV to be installed. 'There are cameras which are obselete.' He feels if the authorities invested resources in estates they would get the support of a 'confident community' but at the moment, ' communities feel they have been left behind.' Cllr Pio Smith felt that the issues around Drogheda can only be addressed by the community and that people get murdered 'to get what you are putting up your nose on a Friday night.' He said there was a 'massive' demand for drugs in the town and should we look at the 'legal control' of certain drugs, as has happened in some countries. The likes of Colorado legalised cannabis and saw crime figures reduced as a result. Cllr David Saurin said the drugs issue was bad in the outlying areas, never mind Drogheda. The lack of gardai in town is something local politicians should raise with the Garda Commissioner, Fergus O'Dowd remarked. 'It's time we met him,' he stated. 'Innocent people will be killed.' Senator Ged Nash felt that the present feud would be resolved but it could be a 'bloody end' , but resources were needed to pick up the pieces. Cllr Richie Culhane urged people to give information. 'If they want, they can stop this,' he stated. He said Minister Flanagan had made assurances about garda numbers and he wanted to see those implemented. Anti-social behaviour in the area between Narrow West Street and West Street was something that Cllr Kenneth Flood raised. He had been part of the Homeless Aid sleepout and saw the issues first hand. Flora Okobi told last week's meeting that new communities in Drogheda were also coming under pressure and she asked the gardai to help. She said she had received a number of reports from people and they needed to be followed up. The site for the new estate at the rear of Dunleer NS Louth County Council officials have said there is 'no change' to the plans for an entrance road at the rear of Scoil Bhride in Dunleer, connected to the new 80 home estate being built in the area. Cllr Colm Markey looked for assurances that the commitments made to the school authorities in respect of the road, would be honoured. Addressing the area council meeting in Ardee, he asked what was the commencement date on the project. It has been intended to begin works some weeks ago, but the council confirmed that documentation had been signed last week which had been hoped would have been done before Christmas. Hedges have been cleared on the site and nows works can begin in a 'matter of weeks.' Director of Housing Paddy Donnelly said that if an agreement had been made with the school in relation to the road then it should not be an issue and he had heard nothing different. 'The feud will end, we'll bring it to an end and we'll take the good, the bad and the ugly from it.' The words of Chief Supt Christopher Mangan at last week's Joint Policing Meeting, determined words, but very real when he considers not only the ongoing feud, but what the people of the town can expect from authorities in the years to come. He's realistic about the problems that exist and that they must be fixed, long term. Resources were raised, politicians asking about numbers and ideal numbers, and while he acknowledged they could do with more, it has been a combination of events that have forced his hand. An Garda Siochana have had six murders to solve and bring people to justice as a result. It costs money, resources, overtime, but he makes no excuses when it comes to costs and the price of someone's life. He said he wouldn't be apologising for any overspends on budget when it comes to tackling criminals. And he wasn't going to say much more than that. 'Criminals read newspapers intently to see what resources are there,' he added. 'Cheap investigations make for expensive tribunals,' he warned. And he sent out a message to the reading criminals,' we've made good inroads in these investigations.' He reported that they had 50 serious incidents, including three attempted murders, pipe bombs and drug offences, and said it was 'taxing, but we have a good handle on the main people involved and I'm confident we'll deal with them. This is not nice when it's on your own doorstep.' Operation Stratus is the name of the investigation launched to tackle the feud and during the course of it they found that criminals 'fall out' and when that happens, 'we get the opportunity to move in.' The armed support is still on call 24 hours a day - almost unique outside Dublin - vital against people 'who intend to kill each other.' On the issue of drugs, he says there's an 'epidemic' - in towns and villages - and 'we must get real on taking positive action.' He says if people have a drink problem, they can attend courses and meetings, but if you want to give up heroin, there's a waiting list. A unique local link to the historic chains of the Lord Mayor of Dublin was revealed during a visit to the grave of former mayor, Bartholomew Von Homrich in St Peter's Church of Ireland cemetery. Present Dublin Mayor Nial Ring met Drogheda mayor Frank Godfrey on Saturday and also present were two direct descendants of Von Homrich, Andrew Mawhood and his daughter, Holly, a student at Ballymakenny College. Andrew from Derbyshire came to Ireland for work over a decade ago and the family settled in Tullyallen as it was easy to commute to Dublin. But it was only after researching the family history did he learn that he was related to the Dublin mayor of 1697-1698, who petitioned William of Orange for a new set of chains, which to this day, bear the image of the Battle of the Boyne victor. Holly is his 11th direct descendant and said it would certainly boost her interest in history! Two generations after Bartholomew was Dublin mayor, Peter Von Homrich became Mayor of Drogheda and was MP for the town from 1826-1830 and lived in Listoke House. It is believed Bartholomew was Polish and came to Ireland via Holland. The Dublin mayor died in 1703 and is buried in St Peter's with a number of family members. Bartholomew was father of another historic person - Vanessa - who was immortalised in the poetry of Jonathan Swift, Dean of St Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin and author of Gulliver's Travels, and a frequent visitor to Drogheda. Liam Reilly gave a talk about the historic links while Mayor Ring said he had his own links to the area, running in the Noel Carroll 10k last year . Mayor Godfrey said he was delighted that that the mayor had travelled from Dublin, which saw them both lay a wreath at the graveside. A tour of St Peter's also took place as well as a look at some of the other top locations around Drogheda. A decision is expected by An Bord Pleanala by June 25th next into a proposed McDonald's drive-thru restaurant on lands at City North in Gormanston. Meath County Council turned down the application last month. Alcove Holdings Limited, based in Dublin 2, sought to erect a part single storey, part two storey restaurant (approximately 539sqm), incorporating a drive thru, and enclosed yard (approximately 55sqm), with a maximum height of approximately 8.74m, including the ancillary sale of hot food for consumption off the premises. They also sought an outdoor seating area with associated fencing and lighting and 54 car parking spaces. There was also the extension of the access roadway of the adjoining petrol station development and the provision of a cycle lane and pedestrian footpath from the City North Access Road. The council turned down the application on two main points, issues with proposals around the treatment of waste, and compliance with the Spatial Strategy for the area and the possible 'proliferation' of similar developments. They feared it would cause issues with traffic coming off the nearby M1. The developer says they have an agreement with Irish Water in relation to the waste water concerns and that the proposed development would have a negligible' impact on the M1. International Women's Day was celebrated with a brilliant, diverse event in the Presentation Centre in Enniscorthy. The organisers worked hard at ensuring many different aspects of women in society were represented on the day. Artist, Amanda Doran, spoke of the opportunities available to women as an arts practitioner while a group representing the Travelling community highlighted cultural and heritage aspects of their sector of the community. Members of the Shauna Walsh music and dance school also performed and the Delightful Dollies gave an excellent line-dancing demonstration. There were also ballroom dancers and storytelling - which was based around a Moldovan legend - and members of the O'Brien School of Irish dance were also in attendance. The event was organised by Sandra Walsh from Wexford Local Development and the night proved to be a great success. The ladies at the Irish Country Women's Association had a fun and quizzical evening recently, when they held the Balbriggan ICA 'Quiz Night' in the Senior Citizens Hall in Balbriggan. This year, members held a ballot and chose the Balbriggan Senior Citizens Club as its charity of choice. Speaking of the evening's proceedings, Balbriggan ICA member Frances Nixon said: 'Every year, we fundraise for a different charity in the town, not necessarily just Balbriggan, but in the surrounding area. 'This year, the ladies chose the Balbriggan Senior Citizens Club as the charity. The club does an awful lot of good work, and do trips for elderly people and things like that. 'Other years, we'd fundraise for other clubs in the town, but this is what the ladies chose for this year.' Frances said that 'without question', Quiz Night was a roaring success, with plenty of fun and laughter had all around. Frances said: 'We had first, second and third prize in the quiz, and then there was the famous raffle. 'Tescos arrived down, a representative came down and donated a big hamper for the raffle, and there must have easily been 20 prizes in there altogether.' Balbriggan ICA, which currently boasts around 50 members, meets twice a month at the Senior Citizens Hall in Balbriggan. Yet another successful fundraiser for the ladies of Balbriggan ICA, and importantly, funds raised for a worthy charity - no question about that. Students from Transition Year in Colaiste Choilm, Swords enjoyed a recnt trip to the Titanic Museum and the W5 Science Museum in Belfast. They were joined by the Principal of the school Mr. David Neville; teachers Mr. Fergal Coen, and Ms. Sinead Hynes; and SNAs Ms. Martina O'Brien, and Ms. Rachel Beggy. Around 48 students travelled to Belfast, with the first port of call been the Titanic Museum, and its nine interpretive and interactive galleries that explore the sights, sounds, smells and stories of Titanic, as well as the City and people which made her. The coordinator of the Crannog ASD Centre in the school, Mr. Fergal Coen said: 'The pupils had a great day at Titanic Belfast - they loved the historic significance of being on the exact location where Titanic was built.' Siobhan McCartney, Titanic Belfast's Learning and Outreach Manager, commented: 'At Titanic Belfast we are passionate about sharing our enthusiasm for RMS Titanic as well as Belfast and its maritime history -it was a privilege to share this with Colaiste Choilm CBS who clearly shared our excitement, sense of fun and creativity.' The students also visited the Nomadic Ship which is in dry dock in the Titanic Quarter. The Nomadic was also build in Belfast in 1911, and operated at the port of Cherbourg in France. She ferried passengers to and from the Titanic on its fateful maiden voyage, because the Titanic was too large to dock in the harbor itself. The students visited the W5 Science Museum where they took part in a workshop on building their own K'nex car. The students had fun climbing the W5s Climbit, and viewing the exhibits. Fingal schools are set to benefit from a raft of new technology following Government investment in the area, Fine Gael TD for Dublin Fingal, Alan Farrell has announced. As part of a 50m national investment scheme in ICT infrastructure, every school in Dublin Fingal will receive grants to purchase key technology, including tablets, cloud systems and projectors. Fingal schools are being invited to apply for the additional fund by demonstrating evidence of effective embedding of digital technologies and Digital Learning Planning. Speaking of the initiative, Deputy Farrell said: 'I'm delighted, as Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Children and Youth Affairs, that Dublin Fingal schools are set to benefit from the national 50million investment in ICT infrastructure for all primary and post-primary schools. 'Grant funding for the purchase of ICT infrastructure will issue to all eligible primary and post primary schools in the country to enable them to embed the use of digital technology in teaching and learning. 'Our Digital Strategy for Schools sets out a clear vision that is focused on realising the potential of digital technologies to transform the learning experiences of students.' The Government's total investment in the Project Ireland 2040 scheme will total 110m to date when all schools draw down their entitlements. Grants will be allocated through a standard lump sum and additional per-capita sums based on the size of the school. At primary level, the grant is worth in the region of 5,900 for a 100 pupil school and almost 22,000 for a 500 pupil school. At post-primary, a 500 student school can receive a grant of almost 27,000 rising to some 52,000 for a 1,000 student school. A further 5m pot of funding is also being set aside in this year's tranche to recognise and support schools' efforts to engage with digital technologies in teaching and learning. Minister for Education and Skills, Joe McHugh, said: 'The latest funding of 50m continues the Government commitment under Project Ireland 2040 to underpin the implementation of the Digital Strategy for Schools 2015-2020. The funding will go hand in hand with other supports for schools such as the Digital Learning Framework and Digital Learning Planning Resource to enable schools to fully embrace and embed digital technologies.' Fingal students on their recent tour of the Paypal offices PayPal hosted a number of transition year students from around Fingal at its Fingal offices, recently. The students, all from local community colleges and schools, completed a week of work experience with the company, at the end of which they received certificates during a mini graduation ceremony. As well as gaining an insight into working at PayPal, the students participated in workshops and sessions covering CV preparation, interview skills, project management, marketing, budgeting and corporate social responsibility. Annette Hickey, PayPal's Vice President, Global Customer Solutions, Europe, Middle East & Africa, guided the students around the business and fielded a lot of great questions from the curious students. some of the local schools involved were Skerries Community College, Portmarnock Community School, Ashbourne Community School, Malahide Community School and Colaiste Choilm in Swords. Paypal are one of the largest corporate giants in Fingal and their open digital payments platform gives PayPal's 254 million active account holders the confidence to connect and transact in new and powerful ways, whether they are online, on a mobile device, in an app, or in person. Through a combination of technological innovation and strategic partnerships, PayPal creates better ways to manage and move money, and offers choice and flexibility when sending payments, paying or getting paid. Available in more than 200 markets around the world, the PayPal platform, including Braintree, Venmo and Xoom, enables consumers and merchants to receive money in more than 100 currencies, A father of eight who agreed to sell ten stolen cars for almost 90,000 on the 'Donedeal' website will be sentenced next May. Nicholas Keane (41) later told gardai in interview that the operation gave him the chance to make money because he was behind on his maintenance. 'I wanted to get money together to give my kids a good Christmas,' he said. He apologised for the crimes and said he felt bad for those that lost money. 'I feel terrible, I feel guilty. If I won the lotto I would pay them all back,' he said. Keane of Chapel Street, Balbriggan, Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to ten counts of handling stolen vehicles and two charges of inducing another to purchase a stolen vehicle on dates between July 11, 2016 and October 25, 2016. He has a number of previous convictions including theft, stealing cars, road traffic and drug offences. Detective Garda William Saunderson told Pieter Le Vert BL, prosecuting, that he was satisfied that Keane's role was to sell on the cars and that he was not responsible for stealing the vehicles. He was to get paid about 500 for each successful sale. Keane, who went under the name of David O'Brien, would meet the purchaser at a pre-arranged rendezvous, hand over the registration details and the car and accept the payment for the vehicle in cash. He took in a total of 88,795, which he told gardai he then handed over to a man with 'a foreign accent'. A number of victims, stated in victim impact reports before the court, how the financial loss they suffered greatly impacted on their lives. Most of the buyers had carried out vehicle checks on the cars before agreeing to buy them, with one man taking it to his local mechanic to be looked over. Many people bought the car with funds raised from life savings, while others borrowed cash or traded in old vehicles to complete the sale. One woman, who had borrowed money from her sister and credit union to buy a vehicle from Keane for 13,750, had to later borrow more money from the credit union to pay back her sister and buy a new car. The family were under extreme pressure as a result and she had to get another job to help back the debt. Another man, who had paid 9,500 for a car from Keane, worried about having enough income to pay his mortgage and was under so much stress that his long term relationship broke down. This man and another victim, indicated that there was a need to have some sort of assistance in place to help compensate people who found themselves victims of such crimes. John Byrne BL, defending, said that Keane had worked on building sites but ran into financial difficulties while out of work and was lured into offending by the promise of easy money. Mr Byrne said his client had no involvement with stealing the cars, but rather that he was 'the front of house man' the person 'who dupes people into buying the cars'. He said Keane accepted a high degree of moral culpability and said he had no financial means to repay the victims. Judge Melanie Greally who was presiding, ordered a probation report and remanded Keane in custody. She adjourned the matter for finalisation on May 28, next. A local organisation called Empower has teamed up with The Irish Cancer Society the Department of Health and HSE to make Fingal 'tobacco free'. The Minister of State for Health Promotion, Catherine Byrne, last week launched 'Tobacco Free Fingal', an initiative to assist communities in Fingal in implementing and maintaining a 'facility tobacco-free policy.' The initiative will see all Fingal community facilities, homes, parks and beaches becoming smoke-free. Mayor of Fingal, Councillor Anthony Lavin, and Councillor Kiernan Dennison, Chair of Empower spoke at the event, held on National No Smoking Day. Development of the initiative was led by Empower, a local development company in Fingal, with support from the HSE's Health Promotion and Improvement Unit and the Irish Cancer Society. The 'toolkit' will initially be rolled out in community centres in Balbriggan, Donabate, Portrane and Swords, all of which were engaged in the development process. 'Tobacco Free Fingal' builds on the success of the Irish Cancer Society's 'We Can Quit' smoking cessation programme in centres across Fingal, and provides organisations with the necessary guidance to develop and maintain tobacco-free spaces through engagement with stakeholders in their community. Speaking at the launch, Minister Byrne said: 'I am delighted to launch this fantastic initiative on National No Smoking Day. 'The development of this Tobacco Free toolkit and its roll-out in community centres across Fingal will contribute enormously to de-normalising smoking in our communities, working towards our goal of a Tobacco Free Ireland by 2025. 'Empower, the HSE's Health Promotion and Improvement Unit, the Irish Cancer Society and the community centres involved are to be commended for their work on the toolkit, which could serve as a template for the development of tobacco-free communities across the country.' The initiative for a Tobacco-Free Community grew from collaborative work undertaken between Empower, the Irish Cancer Society, the HSE's Health Promotion and Improvement Unit, with feedback from a number of community centres across Fingal. Commenting in advance of the launch of the toolkit, Adeline O'Brien, CEO of Empower, said: 'Research shows that smoker rates tend to be higher in lower-income communities, and that community agencies can play a vital role in supporting smoking cessation and in de-normalising smoking. 'As the local development company for Fingal, Empower is delighted to be launching this innovative toolkit which will help to create a healthier environment for all members of the community in Fingal.' Ireland's Tobacco Free Ireland programme was created in 2013 under the Healthy Ireland framework. Key objectives include reducing smoking rates to five per cent or below; promoting and providing access to smoking cessation supports; reducing or eliminating exposure to second-hand smoke for the general population; and de-normalising smoking/tobacco use in the community. Empower is the local development company for Fingal. It was established in 1995, with offices located in Clonsilla, Mulhuddart and Balbriggan. It is responsible for the delivery of a number of Government funded programmes to meet local needs. A controversial planning application for a drive-thru fast food restaurant in Skerries has been granted despite local objections. On Wednesday Fingal County Council confirmed that they have granted planning permission to a drive-thru fast food restaurant beside a Montessori school and a few hundred yards from Skerries Educate Together National School. This follows a concerted campaign against the proposal by local residents which started last year with a public meeting at the school in June. Speaking on behalf of the campaign committee put together to oppose the development, local Green Party representative, Joe O'Brien reacted angrily to the decision to allow the project go ahead. He said: 'People are very, very angry about this. 'The proposal for a drive-thru fast food restaurant in itself made people angry. 'But the fact that we have gone to such lengths to detail in a very professional manner the numerous shortcomings of this planned development, and the community at large has turned out in force against it, makes people especially angry that all of this was not listened to.' Mr O'Brien said he had to question how 'the proposal could trump all the counter arguments made'. He said: 'People simply do not understand how permission could be granted and we are also wondering what the point is in the public submission process if the arguments are simply ignored.' The local campaigner said: 'The fact that the Irish Heart Foundation got very involved in this case and make very strong arguments against the proposal based on the damage it would do to our children really begs the question about what Fingal County Council's priorities really are.' Mr O'Brien said the community would appeal the decision, saying: 'We want a clear message to go out to the community at large that while we are enraged and disillusioned in relation to the whole planning process we are certainly not defeated yet. We have already started the process of bringing an appeal to An Bord Pleanala.' A woman in her early 60s, who assaulted three gardai while they were arresting her son, may avoid a conviction if she pays 250 to the Garda Benevolent Fund before the end of the month. Mary Finnegan (63) will also be placed on a 12 month Peace Bond if she makes the donation when her case is due to be finalised on March 28. The mother-of-two assaulted the three gardai as she claimed she saw red and her 'maternal instincts' kicked in. She tried to interfere with the arrest of her son and kicked out at one garda, struck another on the wrist and shin and struck a third officer in the back of the head in the early hours of August 6 last year. She claimed she had been taking prescribed sleeping tablets and went out for the evening and only had one drink - causing her to react the way she did. She worked all her life but retired three years ago and is 'very embarrassed' by her behaviour and 'couldn't believe' she behaved that way on the night,Balbriggan District Court previously heard. The defendant, of St Catherine's Park in Rush, North County Dublin, pleaded guilty to assaulting Garda Aaron Shanahan, Garda Aidan O'Halloran and Garda Kevin Fitzpatrick on August 26, 2017 at Upper Main Street in Rush. She has no previous convictions. Sergeant Eoin McDonnell gave evidence that at 2am while Rush Harbour Festival was taking place, gardai attended Main Street in an attempt to arrest the defendant's son. 'The defendant then interfered with the arrest of her son and assaulted three gardai,' said Sgt McDonnell. 'She kicked out at one garda, struck another on the wrist and shin and struck a third garda in the back of the head.' He said the three gardai were 'not seriously injured' and were able to resume their duty at short time later. At that court hearing defence solicitor Fiona D'Arcy said the 63-year-old, who has two sons aged 35 and 32, is 'very embarrassed'. 'She has prepared three letters of apology for the gardai which have been handed over to the sergeant,' she continued. Ms D'Arcy said the defendant went out on the night to socialise but had been taking prescribed sleeping tablets and 'only had one drink'. 'Because of the way her son was behaving he was arrested. She saw red and her maternal instincts kicked in,' Ms D'Arcy explained. Ms D'Arcy said the defendant has 'worked all her life and retired at 60'. 'She couldn't believe the way she behaved in the way she did. She is normally a peaceful citizen and her retirement has been destroyed by this for the past 15 months,' she added. Judge Paula Murphy warned the defendant that the offences 'carry a headline sentence of 12 months' and ordered a pre-sentencing Probation Report before adjourning the case until next year for finalisation. At last week's sitting of Blanchardstown District Court where Judge Murphy was presiding, a positive Probation Report was handed into court. Judge Murphy ordered that if the defendant pays 250 to the Garda Benevolent Fund she will place her on a 12 month Peace Bond by the end of the month. Local TD and Sinn Fein Health spokesperson Louise O'Reilly has said the government's inaction on funding and support for primary care is a 'death sentence' to General Practice and Community Pharmacies in Fingal. According to Deputy O'Reilly, a recent report from the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) showed that community pharmacies were under threat, and that the General Practice crisis was set to escalate further, with towns such as Balbriggan, Rush and Lusk already experiencing GP shortages. Deputy O'Reilly said: 'The pressure on primary care in Fingal has increased significantly in the last 15 years as our population has grown by almost 120,000, and as our demographics have changed with more older people and more young children. 'In a sensible and responsible State, the government would recalibrate the health service towards primary care and properly fund it and invest in our GPs and our community pharmacists. It provides cheaper care and closer to home, often with better outcomes for patients.' Deputy O'Reilly said the IPU report had warned that community pharmacies could be under threat by what it claimed was the government's failure to deliver on its promise to expand their role. The IPU report, the Deputy said, also claimed that increased paperwork was 'crippling' working time and having a significant impact on pharmacists. This, she added, came on foot of 'additional bureaucracy' which the government was trying to place on pharmacy workers. She said: 'In addition to this, there is the crisis facing General Practice as 150 posts are currently unfilled, and 700 GPs are due to retire in next five years. 'General Practitioners are the cornerstone of our primary care services. Primary care is the front line of our health service and deals with the bulk of the health needs of the population.' Blaming the government's 'cavalier attitude' towards GPs in their refusal to reverse cuts to primary care, Deputy O'Reilly said this was 'crippling' services. Government inaction in funding and supporting primary and community care in Fingal and across the State, was a 'death sentence' to General Practice and Community Pharmacies, she added. The long wait for the reopening of Rush Garda Station appears close with new information the station will be handed over to gardai in the middle of this year. Fine Gael TD for Dublin Fingal, Alan Farrell has received information from the Minister responsible for the Office of Public Works that Rush Garda station is due to be handed over to An Garda Siochana in mid-2019, following the completion of all works to allow the station to reopen. Deputy Farrell said: 'The reopening of Rush Garda station is vitally important for the local community. 'Reopening this station will work to ensure members of the local community can feel safe on their local streets and in their own homes.' He added: 'I have questioned the Minister responsible on the progress in relation to the reopening of Rush Garda station to date. 'As we are already aware, the Office of Public Works received possession of the building from the then licensee at the end of September last year. 'Furthermore, An Garda Siochana confirmed the final agreement to the proposed plans for the reopening of the station in December 2018.' Deputy Farrell explained: 'I have now been informed by the Minister that the Office of Public Works is now progressing with the procurement of the necessary works to allow Rush Garda station to reopen. 'The required works are expected to be completed by mid-2019 at which time the building will be handed over to An Garda Siochana.' He concluded: 'As the local Fine Gael TD for Dublin Fingal, I will continue to monitor progress on the reopening of Rush Garda station until the project is delivered for the local community.' The notion of a new 'Borough Council' for Swords under a new local authority structure for the Dublin region, including a directly elected Mayor, has been floated by An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar in a speech on the issue. Addressing the Dublin European Parliament Convention in Clontarf, last week An Taoiseach spoke about the structure of local government. He said: 'Colleagues, as you know, on the 24th of May, voters in Waterford, Cork and Limerick will decide whether they want a directly elected mayor with real power. A personality who can represent their city region nationally and internationally and drive it forward. It's very much in line with the Project Ireland vision which sees these cities growing at twice the rate of Dublin between now and 2040. 'For Dublin, we want the same. But it's going to take a little more work. Dublin is divided among four local authorities. So, we are going to organize a citizens' assembly for Dublin to consult citizens on the best model of regional Government for the 21st and 22nd century. My own view, is that we should adopt the London or Paris model with a single assembly for all of Dublin headed up by a directly elected mayor dealing with issues like planning, transport and housing even taking on functions currently carried out by central government.' Talking in more detail about how Dublin's local government might be structured in the future, he floated the idea of a Borough Council for Swords and towns of a similar size. He said: 'Below that we should have neighbourhood or borough councils dealing with the issue that are truly local covering much smaller areas that people identify with like Lucan, Tallaght, Swords, Clontarf, Dun Laoghaire and Rathmines - to name a few. But that's just my view, and we've much work to do before we can put a thought out proposal to the people of Dublin to vote on.' In the same speech he assured Dublin homeowners that the ever-increasing property values in the region would not lead to similar hikes in property tax. He said: 'Understandably, this has created a fear that property tax will go up by that much as well. I want to allay those fears tonight.' There was plenty of helpful advice dispensed at the Parking Permits and Spaces information afternoon last week. The event which was organised by the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) was held in its Outreach Centre in Ballycanew. The information session was held after the very successful 'Back in 5' campaign and 'Make Way' campaign highlighting the difficulties disabled drivers face when they haven't access to designated parking spaces. At the event people heard that one of the principal issues which frustrated disabled people is the abuse of disabled parking spaces by members of the general public. Selina Power of the IWA said: 'For many of our members simple tasks such as going shopping or meeting a friend for a coffee is an ongoing challenge because too often these spaces are occupied by people who do not have a disability, many of whom can often be very aggressive to people who wish to highlight their inappropriate parking.' The purpose of the 'Parking Permits and Spaces' event was to raise local awareness on all matters relating to Disabled Parking Permits and Spaces. The matters addressed on the day were: how to apply for a disabled parking permit; the appropriate use of disabled parking permits; the impact on permit holders of misuse of disable parking permits and spaces; the need for additional spaces in Gorey, Enniscorthy and Wexford. The event was attended by Cllr Johnny Mythen and Cllr Pip Breen representing Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Keith Doyle and Mary McGee from the Wexford branch of the NCBI (National Council for the Blind Ireland). The speakers on the day were Selina Power, Service support officer in Wexford IWA, Sergeant Kevin Bolger from the Gorey Garda Station, Wexford Access Officer Caroline Horan and Liz Scanlon from the Gorey County Council. The event was successful and produced positive feedback. Moving forward the Gardai, local councillors, the local authorities and the IWA aim to collaborate together on addressing the issues discussed. If you have a concern about another person's parking permit or a disabled parking spot being used incorrectly, please report it to your local Gardai. There is a free text service in Gorey, you can text 'nab' and your concern to 51772. The local county councils are working on bringing this service to Wexford and other locations. Developer Harry Crosbie will no longer form part of any plans to build a multi-purpose arts and performance space in the old Market House. The high-profile developer who has been working with Wexford County Council for the last four years to bring the project to fruition has been told by the council that his 'services were no longer required'. Mr Crosbie said that when he rang the council in recent weeks to see about advancing the project on foot of funding of 429,145 from the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) he was told that the council didn't want his input. 'Four years ago I was asked by Wexford County Council if I had any ideas for Wexford because I have a holiday bungalow there. 'I came up with the idea of a Vicar Street South venue in the old Market House and did a huge amount of background work on the project. We determined that there was sufficient people in the catchment area to make it work with the catchment area being 50 miles in all directions. 'I advised them on the consolidation of the site out the back to make the venue work because the shape wasn't right and I advised them on what land to buy which they then CPO-ed 'I brought in the architect who had worked with me on the original Vicar Street, the Point and the Bord Gais theatre. 'We came up with an outline plan of how Vicar Street South would work and then we had a long, long delay because the council were waiting on EU funding and various things. 'About two weeks ago I heard that the first round of funding had been released and I rang the council to find out when we were going to start only to be told that they were going to do it in-house and my services were no longer required. 'They are going to get their own architect and draw up new plans.' Harry said that his plans included the main auditorium, stage, private members club, bar, dressing rooms and toilets. 'We had a highly skilled design team working on this project and were fully committed to the project. We were also in contact with all the leading promoters. This is a highly specialised area and it can't be done by just anyone.' Mr Crosbie said that as a result of the council insisting in bringing in its own architect he has withdrawn from the project. 'We have withdrawn from the process. We had a highly skilled design team working on this and it's not acceptable. We don't operate buildings we don't design so we are out of the project. 'I am disappointed. I put in a lot of effort, work and thought into this project. I am very fond of Wexford and I'm bitterly disappointed by this decision.' Deputy Michael D'Arcy said he was worried about the viability of the project now that Harry Crosbie is no longer involved. 'I don't think it is a particularly clever move by the council. I still think it's a really strong concept for the Main Street and we need to ensure that it is operated by someone who can run it as a going concern. Without someone with knowledge and experience in that space like Harry Crosbie the concept isn't as strong.' When asked if he was worried about the viability of the project without Mr Crosbie's involvement Deputy D'Arcy said 'Oh god, yeah'. He said he hadn't been informed by the council that it intended to go at the project alone and added that the 430,000 in Rural Regeneration and Development Fund which will see the project progress needs to be 'well spent' adding 'we can't lose sight of the concept'. Deputy D'Arcy said he didn't know the motivation behind the council's decision to cut Harry Crosbie out of the project despite having approached him some four years ago. In a statement Wexford County Council said it is committed to the Market House project. 'In May 2018, Wexford County Council completed the planning process in relation to the re-development of Gorey Market House, which provides for the extension of the Market House to provide a multifunctional space, including a retail/exhibition/performance venue. 'On 14 February last, it was announced that funding of 429,145 is to be made available to Wexford County Council by the Department of Rural and Community Development towards the redevelopment of Gorey Market House as part of the Project Ireland 2040 Rural Regeneration Development Fund (RRDF). The Council welcomes this grant aid, which will allow the project to proceed to the next stage, namely the production of detailed designs and tender documents for construction purposes. 'Wexford County Council is committed towards the development of this very exciting project, and in this regard has set aside the sum of 2 million towards the project's construction costs, which are estimated at 5.5 million. The Council hopes to be awarded further grant aid in respect of the remaining balance, and is optimistic in relation to such an application, given the scale and importance of the project and it's clear potential to significantly enhance the economy of Gorey Town and surrounding area. 'Wexford County Council has also invited expressions of interest from those wishing to enter into a concession contract to operate the venue following construction. No decision has been made in relation to this process, which is subject to the usual rules of public procurement and will be concluded once the full amount of project funding is confirmed and in place.' However it failed to answer a number of questions put to it including: 'Why has the long standing plan to have Harry Crosbie involved in the project been abandoned especially in light of the fact that he was approached by the council and the experience he has with such venues?' 'Why didn't the council officially inform Harry Crosbie that his services were no longer required and instead he found out when he rang the council about progressing the plan in light of the RRDF funding?' 'Starting the project from scratch will delay the project significantly how long is this delay expected to be?' 'Funding of 429,145 was allocated to the Market House under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund some three weeks ago to develop a plan for the Market House. What is the council hoping to get done with this money, will it bring the project to design stage etc, and how will the rest of the project be funded?' 'In terms of funding will the council be dependent on EU funding on a piece meal basis meaning it may be several years before the project is actually realised?' An extraordinary general meeting of Wexford Chamber of Industry and Commerce is due to take place at the end of March to allow members to vote on a proposed restructuring plan to amalgamate with Gorey and New Ross Chambers. Wexford Chamber secretary Karl Fitzpatrick issued a notice of the meeting which will be held in the Wexford Chamber offices in Hill Street on March 28 at 8pm. All members are entitled to vote on the proposal to create a single County Wexford Chamber between the three chambers and to adopt a new Constitution. If the proposal is successful, the members will also be asked to authorise the Chamber to transer the assets and liabilities of the Wexford company to a new amalgamated entity, to be called County Wexford Chamber of Industry and Commerce Limited by Guarantee. On amalgamation, the existing members of the Wexford Chamber will become members of the County Wexford Chamber. Enniscorthy Chamber previously rejected the opportunity to amalgamate with the three other Chambers of Commerce in the county, saying that the best interests of its members could only be served by remaining independent at this time. Three of the five Kerry winners in the All-Ireland Credit Union art contest (from left): James OShea from Beaufort, winner in the adult category; Aneta Majchrzak from Killorglin, also a winner in the adult category; and Jonathan OKeeffe, Killarney, winner in the 14-to-17 age category The Kingdom flag was flying high as five Kerry artists were celebrated at recent The National Credit Union Art Competition awards ceremony. The Irish League of Credit Unions Art Competition, now in its 35th year, is one the longest-running competitions of its type, and around 30,000 entries were received for this year's contest. The first stage of the competition is held at local branch level, with the winners moving on to stage two, a regional level. In Kerry, that involved the Credit Union movement's 'Chapter 23', which takes in Kerry and west Limerick. Regional level participants were then judged by an expert panel and winners were selected to travel to Croke Park to accept their prizes. The Kerry winners this year were Aine Moriarty, representing Rathmore and District Credit Union; Jonathan O'Keeffe, representing Killarney Credit Union; Aneta Majchrzak, representing Cara Credit Union; Dylan Murphy, representing Listowel Credit Union; and James O'Shea, representing Killarney CU. The theme this year was 'Force of Nature', which inspired the artists to put together some exceptional artistic creations. Chairperson of Credit Union Chapter 23 John Long paid tribute to the winning artists. "We had phenomenal success at this year's art competition. We had five of the 33 national winners from Kerry, so it was an excellent achievement from our talented artists," said Mr Long. "As always, a great day was had by our winners and their families in Croke Park, with each of our five receiving cash prizes, and each winning entry will have their artwork featured in the Credit Union's 2019 National Calendar," Mr Long added. Sharing the glitter ball at Strictly Come Dancing 2019 in aid of the Irish Cancer Society, the judges choice winners and peoples choice winners: Ciara ODonoghue and Emmet Flanagan with Mike Delaney and Mags OMahony. Photos by Marie Carroll-OSullivan The INEC is a venue well used to housing some of the best performers from around the country, but last weekend it was the turn of the local talent to prove their worth on stage as they took part in Killarney's 'Strictly Come Dancing' on Saturday night. A fundraising event for the Killarney and South Kerry branch of the Irish Cancer Society, the night has been hailed as a fantastic success by organisers, with two very worthy judges' winners emerging from the pack in the shape of Listry native Ciara O'Donoghue and Clare man - now very much Killarney - Garda Emmet Flanagan. Mags O'Mahony and Mike Delaney were then named as the winners of the public vote. There is definitely some talent in Killarney Garda Station when it comes to Strictly, with Emmet now the third local Garda to win a Strictly event following Garda Mike Milners 2015 win in the Dr Crokes event; and Garda Aoife Dolan-Twomey, who triumphed in the 2016 Killarney Strictly Come Dancing event. Judges on the night were Derry Healy, Kate OLeary, Ann Mangan and Batty OSullivan and they were left with no easy decisions! Kerry's first-ever female Garda Chief Superintendent is to take up her position at the helm of the force here within weeks, The Kerryman has learned. Superintendent Eileen Foster, a native of County Cork, is to take up the role by the end of the month, with serving Kerry Chief Supt Tom Myers transferring as Chief Supt to the Fermoy district in North Cork. She will inherit a policing structure that's in much ruder health than when Tom Myers was appointed to the head of the force here back in December 2016. In his relatively short stint at the helm, Supt Myers oversaw an increase in resources in key areas from the traffic corps to the drugs unit, with garda numbers in Kerry up across the board - albeit from an historic low. Supt Myers also established the Kerry Protective Services Unit, a special task force within the Kerry gardai for tackling sex crimes, which became operational at the start of this year. It is one of just six such units nationally that rolled out in the second phase of a policy that began with four units nationally. Chief Supt Eileen Foster was the head of one of the first four: the Cork Protective Services Unit. Since it came on stream, it has been credited with a massive surge in public confidence in the gardai's ability to investigate sex crimes. Under Chief Supt Foster, Cork witnessed a 130-per-cent surge in the reporting of sex crimes since the unit was set-up. She was promoted to Supt heading the National Protection Services Unit last year in Dublin. Supt Foster also has extensive experience in fighting drug crime, having served on the drugs squad in Cork for many years - alongside Tom Myers. Her appointment is being widely welcomed among the Gardai in Kerry. A parent whose children attend Fossa National School has criticised Kerry County Council for its delay in implementing roadside safety measures at the school to ensure the safety of the pupils whose lives are in danger every single day. Declan Lynch, a father of four, was among a deputation who attended the Killarney Municipal District meeting last week to call for a pedestrian crossing to be installed at the school. Killarney Engineer John Ahern told councillors, all of whom called for safety measures, that options would be looked at. This is an issue that had previously been raised, and the response angered Mr Lynch. "We are getting nowhere. It is very frustrating to take time off to come here and listen to this rubbish," he said. "I have been at this since 2016, and my children will have left school by the time it happens." He said that there have been numerous accidents, including one involving his family which caused 2,000-worth of damage. Principal Pat Clifford said that there was 'chaos at the school gate', and he criticised Kerry County Council for letting down the children, in particular the children who have additional needs which the school caters for. "It is lamentable what is happening at the school," he said. "It is an injustice to every parent and child." He said that a traffic warden had been in place at the school previously - at a time when there were fewer students. Currently there are 267 pupils and almost 30 staff, all of whom are in danger, the deputation said. The school has consulted an engineering firm that has come up with a solution: a controlled pedestrian crossing from the church car park to the school which would allow parents to park there and cross the road to the school safely. Mr Ahern said that the council would look at the plan but that the local authority must 'maximise' all options and would bring ideas to Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII). The council were accused of discriminating and blackguarding the children and their parents - actions they strenuously denied, claiming they are doing all they can to try and get something done. Cllr Grady said TII are discriminating against children. Cllr Maura Healy Rae, who led the deputation, said that the works are taking too long and that councillors would be 'relentless' on the issue. She asked "Would it take a child getting knocked down" for works to take place. The deputation called for a traffic warden and traffic cones to be put in place immediately but were told this is not possible. "I understand that there is a process, but we could find a solution tomorrow morning," said Mr Lynch. He added that Liebherr already have a similar pedestrian crossing just up the road from the school and feels there is no reason why this could not be done. "It is only a matter of time before someone gets hurt." Only 41 new garda recruits have been assigned to Kerry in the past four years out of the total of 2,361 new gardai that have come out of Templemore Garda Training College. The new figures released by the Department of Justice outline what divisions recently qualified gardai were allocated to, and Kerry has just two per cent of the new recruits. Fianna Fail TD for Kerry John Brassil has criticised the lack of gardai allocated to the county and stated that communities across the county are worried about lack of gardai on the ground. "Communities across Kerry - particularly in rural areas - are genuinely worried about the lack of Garda resources in their area," he said. "Local people feel the lack of Garda visibility is affording criminals a greater opportunity to carry out crime sprees." Deputy Brassil said that more investment in garda resources is needed in Kerry. "I have been warning for some time that we need to see serious investment in Garda resources in Kerry," he said. "Under Fine Gael, we have seen the closure of a number of Garda stations, with the promise of 'smart' policing - something which has yet to materialise," he said, adding that the figures released about garda numbers are 'unsurprising' and 'worrying'. "Only 41 new Garda recruits have been assigned to the Kerry division since 2015 - out of a total of 2,361. That's less than two per cent. "Given the fact that over three per cent of the population live in Kerry, the number of Gardai allocated to the county falls well below what it should be. "In fact, based on the current population, Kerry should have received at least 70 new recruits over the past four years," Deputy Brassil feels. He has vowed to continue his calls for more resources. "I will be following up with the Justice Minster to ensure that Kerry gets its fair share of resources when the next allocations are made," he said. The State is yet to respond to a law suit launched by Joanne Hayes and her family over their treatment during the 'Kerry Babies' investigation and the subsequent tribunal. In January 2018 the Gardai, the Taoiseach and the Minister of Justice issued apologies to Ms Hayes and her family. Since then negotiations on a compensation settlement have been underway. However, a recent Government proposal involving a settlement that would not admit accountability and which would bind the Hayes family to secrecy and bar them from further legal actions has been rejected. Last week Joanne Hayes and her siblings launched separate legal actions against the State. Four High Court writs - in the name of Joanne Hayes; her sister, Kathleen; and brothers, Ned and Michael - were served against the Garda Commissioner; the Director of Public Prosecutions; the Minister of Justice; the Office of the Attorney General and the State of Ireland. The summonses seek damages and also that Judge Kevin Lynch's final report on the 'Kerry Babies Tribunal' be amended to reflect the total exoneration of Joanne Hayes and her family. As The Kerryman went to press, the five named defendants had yet to formally respond to the Hayes' family writs. An Garda Siochana said it has no comment on the matter. The Department of Justice said that "correspondence" has been received from the Hayes' solicitors and that this is "currently under consideration". Last Wednesday the case was raised in the Seanad by Sinn Fein Senator Maire Devine. "I wish Ms Joanne Hayes of the Kerry Babies case well, who is bringing the State to court following its actions in those awful days. I wish Ms Hayes the very best of luck. The women of Ireland, and the men, are behind her," said Senator Devine. The Hayes family and their solicitor, Pat Mann, have declined to comment. As a youngster growing up in the working class areas of Coolock, Belcamp and Darndale in Dublin, the thought of becoming a professional actor never really entered the head of John Connors. As is probably more commonplace with young traveller boys, he dreamed more of strutting his stuff in the boxing ring than treading the boards of the country's best loved theatres. However, all the time he took note of what was going on around him. How travellers were treated in Irish society; the plight of the downtrodden working class; families' battles with addiction. Now as a successful actor and writer, this insight is invaluable and it forms a central part of his works like the film 'Cardboard Gangsters' and his brand new play 'Ireland's Call' which hits the Wexford Arts Centre stage next Wednesday, March 20. The battle with depression and mental health issues form a central part of John's story. At the age of eight his father died by suicide. He was to endure his own battle with depression years later and it was this that led to him starting out in the world of acting aged 20. 'I never really thought of being an actor when I was younger,' he said. 'It didn't even register with me. It wasn't on my radar. Then I was going through some mental health problems and trying to deal with depression and my brother suggested going to an acting class. It worked and it became a great outlet for me. I absolutely fell in love with it.' Once he committed to acting, John's rise to prominence was what some might call meteoric. 'Well I never really thought about it as a career or anything like that at first,' he said. 'I just saw it as being good for my head. Then I was cast in the lead role of "King of the Travellers" which was only a year after my first acting class. Nine years after that first class and here I am and it's now my career and my life.' 'I try to go about everything with energy and just throw myself into things and just say "yes",' he continued. 'I just threw myself into it and I knew I'd find a way and I'm still trying to improvise my way through life.' The role which made the name John Connors a household one was his portrayal of Patrick Ward in Stuart Carolan's hit crime series 'Love/Hate'. Things blew up quickly and John looks back on that period fondly. 'I was surprised by the reaction to it I suppose,' he said. 'I knew it was a great show, but when I was in it the reaction was mental! It was very intense. It was like being a f**king Beatle! You're still unknown in England and that, but in Ireland, everybody knows who you are. It was a great time; it was all good.' As a member of the travelling community, the acting business can be a difficult one. With discrimination still rife, John feels that he is not afforded the same opportunities as other actors. In his infamous speech after collecting an IFTA for his movie 'Cardboard Gangsters', he stated that the film board dismissed the project and he couldn't get an agent to represent him or casting directors to look at him. 'Nothing has really changed since then,' he says. 'It's not improving. But basically now I'm in the situation where I have to create my own work and be as independent as possible. I don't want to be dependent on somebody else giving me a go. I'm making my own way in this world and making my own career and I'm in control of my own destiny.' The issue of discrimination is one which Connors feels strongly about. As a traveller, he's had to deal with discrimination and racism throughout his life and he has since made documentaries with RTE about traveller culture. 'Obviously I feel strongly about it,' he laughed. 'These are my people. This is my life. It's my whole identity. It's who I am. Travellers have always been treated like second class citizens and I'll never be happy with what happens to us and what we have to go through.' Last year, discrimination of travellers came to the fore in spectacular fashion following controversial comments made by Presidential candidate Peter Casey - a man who subsequently went on to finish runner up in the polls to Michael D Higgins. 'It was predictable really,' John laments. 'Once he came out and made those comments, I knew he would finish second. If he had've done it six weeks out, I think he might have won it. Let's face it, this is not the first time a politician has made a negative reference towards travellers. In fact, in the past they've said much worse. Unfortunately I think we'll see this kind of thing more and more now that people have seen how successful it can be.' While he's looking forward to taking his new show to Wexford, a place he concedes he's looking forward to taking a look around, John has been critical in the past about Wexford's relationship with the travelling community and it's treatment of travellers. This particularly came to a head for him around the time of the funerals for the victims of the Carrickmines Fire back in 2015. Eleven people perished in the blaze, five of whom were buried in Wexford. 'You only have to look at how Wexford treated the family members of those who died in Carrickmines,' John blasted. 'They shut down everything and refused to let these people in. This was the family of eleven people who had been burnt to a crisp. If you just listen to the Pecker Dunne song "Wexford Town", it'll tell you all you need to know about Wexford and travellers. It's always been the same.' 'Having said that, I wouldn't say that Wexford is more heavy-handed on the racism than lots of other towns,' he added. 'Unfortunately it's something that's common all over the country.' Despite his criticisms, John is greatly looking forward to taking 'Ireland's Call' to the Wexford Arts Centre stage. 'I haven't been down in Wexford in a long time,' he revealed. 'I'm really looking forward to it. It's not somewhere that I've spent a lot of time so I'm looking forward to visiting the place and taking the show before a Wexford audience.' Written and performed by Connors and drawing on all his experiences growing up in working class areas, the one man show is a real insight into life on the margins. Told through the voice of Coolock native James, it follows the lives and family histories of three young men as they grew up on Dublin's north-side. With it, Connors aims to hold up a mirror to Irish society and examine issues of class, religion and identity in an exploration of the Irish psyche. 'I started writing this because I felt I had a lot of things I wanted to say about Ireland,' he said. 'I wanted something personal. There's some comedy in it, young lads wanting to head off to Ibiza after seeing "Kevin and Perry", and then there's more serious aspects, focusing on things like heroin addiction.' 'It looks at class, religion, abuse and state policies against the working classes.' While 'Ireland's Call' deals with serious and often challenging themes, John says there are quite a few laughs in there too, something which he feels is symptomatic of Irish storytelling. 'There's laughter in there, but there's also tears,' he noted. 'That's the great thing about Irish storytelling isn't it? It'll punch you in the stomach and then give you a nice hug afterwards.' 'Ireland's Call' will be staged at Wexford Arts Centre on Wednesday, March 20, at 8 p.m. A limited number of tickets are still available to purchase for 16 from www.wexfordartscentre.ie. The sixth annual Flowers for Magdalene's memorial took place in St. Stephen's cemetery, New Ross, with crowds attending despite the heavy downpours. People from across the county turned out to lay flowers and pay homage to women who lived, worked and died behind the walls of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd Magdalene Laundry across the road from the cemetery in Irishtown, New Ross. The memorial marked International Women's Day and was one of the national events held across the country at Magdalene locations. The ceremony which attempts to write Ireland's once anonymous women into history began with a flag ceremony. Michael Fottrell raised the tricolour and Maureen Sullivan, who was incarcerated in the New Ross laundry, raised the Magdalene Flag of Flowers which was created and designed by the event organiser, artist Nancy Rochford Flynn. Nancy said: 'This gesture attempts to place Ireland's once anonymous daughters back within their rightful position in society. Des Callaghan piped a musical tribute to accompany this. Wexford County Council has granted special permission to allow the Magdalene Flag to remain in situ for the coming week.' Nancy spoke about the importance of Active Commemoration as a means of Countering Cultural Forms of Forgetfulness. She read aloud parts of the apology delivered to the Magdalene Survivors by President Michael D. Higgins at Aras an Uachtarain during last June's 'Dublin Honours Magdalenes' event which she said she was privileged to have been invited to. The President said: 'Ireland failed you. When you were vulnerable and in need of the support of Irish society and its institutions, its authorities did not cherish you, protect you, respect your dignity or meet your needs and so many in the wider society colluded with their silence'. Margaret Rossiter then recited the names of the 63 women buried in the mass grave at St. Stephen's, accompanied by sisters Meadhbh and Eimear Flynn who placed a flower for each women buried. The girls were assisted by Carmel Furlong. This was followed by readings from Ann Walsh and Annette Stacey Ellis. Des Callaghan performed a fitting musical tribute to conclude the ceremony. 'The floral tribute which remains in the cemetery provides a visual representation that the secrecy behind the lives of the Magdalene women no longer exists. A special word of gratitude is extended to all in attendance and to the local businesses that very generously sponsored the event,' Nancy said. Having played everybody's favourite bad guy Tony Doyle in TV3's 'Red Rock', Wexford actor Nic Furlong is excited about taking the next step in his career after landing the lead role in a new Baz David film 'Rotten Sweetness'. Currently living in Enniscorthy, the former Wexford CBS student has been clocking up plenty of mileage of late travelling up and down to Dublin for rehearsals. 'We're in the middle of rehearsals at the moment,' he said. 'They're long days. You could be talking twelve hours by the time I get in my front door in the evening. It's exhausting, but at the same time it's really rewarding. You're coming home on a high. We start filming at the end of the month and I can't wait.' Following on from his critically acclaimed role in 'Red Rock', Nic was keen to take the next step in his career and had attended a number of auditions before landing the role in 'Rotten Sweetness'. 'I did a really good audition,' he said. 'One of the best I've ever done. I had already auditioned for three other big roles - 'Hansel and Gretel', 'Dublin Murders' and 'Taken Down' - and hadn't got a call back. I've been focusing on trying to do bigger stuff lately and when I got the call back for this one I was over the moon. I needed it and I'm really looking forward to taking the next step.' The modern suspense thriller tells the story of Jack Brennan, a man who has become numb with the monotony of his job and the loneliness of the city. Things, however, shift a gear when a high profile client approaches him with a case that will change his life for good. Filming gets underway later this month and will take place at locations around Ireland as well as Croatia. Starring alongside Nic will be Owen O'Gorman who previously appeared in 'Angela's Ashes' and 'Into the West' and upcoming actress Samantha Gallagher who will play Nic's love interest in the movie. Not one to rest on his laurels, Nic has also penned a play 'Woman In Black' which has been picked up by The Blackstairs Theatre Group and is due to be staged in The Presentation Centre in Enniscorthy over three nights on the June bank holiday. 'Rotten Sweetness' is slated for release in Irish cinemas next year and the people of Wexford will be excited to see one of its own sons hit the big screen! A Ramsgrange musician has released a debut album offering a rip roaring mix of rock, country and blues, which is perfect pop ear candy. Eugene Kelly, whose stage name is Copper Kelly, has spent two years working on the album in a studio he made at his house. The album, Worthwhile Waste of Time, features six original songs and four covers, namely Mama Tried by Merle Haggard, Kelly The Boy From Killane, Tennessee Whiskey and Jackson. Kelly was drawn to Kelly from Killane, in particular, as the song's namesake is his ancestor. The former Good Counsel student has been playing music for 17 years in different rock bands. A chance meeting with lyricist Dympna Walsh from Wellingtonbridge moved him more in the direction of country music. 'I met Dympna shortly after being made unemployed. She had written lyrics for Michael English and other country stars and she gave me some lyrics. I recorded a quick demo, putting a melody to music and sent it back to her. She loved it and we recorded a version of it which was on the local radio a few days later.' Kelly worked on his own on Worthwhile Waste of Time, producing and recording the music. 'I produced and recorded it all myself in a studio made at home,' he said. Having studied sound engineering at Athlone Institute of Technology, Kelly was able to mix and produce all of the songs to a high quality, recording the songs several times before he was happy to include them in the album's final cut. With musical inspiration from Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson and other country and rock legends, Kelly finished the album in the autumn and quickly recorded six songs for his follow up album. When he writes a song Kelly starts with the melody and a catchy hook and the lyrics follow after. 'I like singing songs from the heart.' He has 100 physical copies of the album for sale and the album is also available on Spotify, itunes and Apple Music. He released his first single, the album title track Worthwhile Waste of Time in October, following it up with Her Home, which was promoted with a video featuring aerial drone footage of the Hook Peninsula. The songs have gotten air time in radio stations in Northern Ireland and in Canada and Scotland. As for the future, Kelly plans to continue releasing country songs and is hoping to get a manager to help him promote his work. He focuses on his music every evening, after working his day job at Glana Controlled Hygiene, New Ross. 'I'm rehearsing with a five piece band so we're looking forward to doing gigs. We're working on a second album,' Kelly said. For more information on Copper Kelly and his music see copperkelly.com. The opening of a demonstration stretch of a new cross border greenway could prove to be a significant long term tourism boost for Sligo. Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross was on hand last week to open a section of the demonstration stretch of the Sligo, Leitrim and Northern Counties Railway (SLNCR) Greenway from Cornacloy to Sradrine near Glenfarne. He said: "Increasingly we are looking to market Ireland as an activity tourism destination and Greenways are an important part of that offering. "The SLNCR Greenway project as a whole has great potential. If it were to be completed, it could have economic benefits for the many communities it encompasses and would enable people to walk and cycle on a segregated route from Sligo in the Republic to Enniskillen in County Fermanagh." DUP leader Arlene Foster was amongst the guests who attended the launch at the Ballroom of Romance in Glenfarne. The length of the proposed greenway to run along the former Sligo, Leitrim and Northern counties railway is 72 kilometres and will cost an estimated 11 million to complete over the next seven years or so. Sligo, Leitrim and Fermanagh and Omagh District councils are backing the project. The proposed rail trail will convert the disused railway route between Collooney and Enniskillen into a multi-use rail trail for cyclists, walkers and the mobility challenged. It would start at Collooney and pass through Ballintogher, Dromahair, Glenfarne, Blacklion and Enniskillen. Councillor Marie Casserly, who was instrumental in organising for Minister Ross to come to Glenfarne to open the demonstration stretch of the route said she was proud to be involved with the cross border project. "I am proud to be involved with this cross border show of support for the SLNCR Greenway project, with plans to develop a 74km Greenway running from Sligo through counties Leitrim and Cavan and into Enniskillen in Fermanagh. "With the uncertainty of Brexit it is vital now more than ever to support fantastic cross border projects such as this one. "A 2km demonstration stretch was officially opened near Glenfarne by Minister Ross and Arlene Foster. According to Leitrim County Council's cost benefit analysis the finished Greenway will result in an economic boost in the region of 7 million locally in the first year of opening creating 227 full time jobs in the area as well as resulting in 100 jobs in its construction. I wish to pay tribute to the staff of both local authorities of Sligo and Leitrim for working on and progressing this project," she said. The greenway encompassing 57km within the Republic and 18km in Fermanagh. Funding of 300,000 was received from Transport Infrastructure Ireland enabling the development of the 2km demonstration stretch of greenway along the N16 from Cornacloy to Sradrine in County Leitrim. An application for the developmental costs of 635,000 for the entire SLNCR Greenway project was submitted to DTTAS in November 2018 under the National and Regional Greenways Fund. The application was submitted by Leitrim County Council in conjunction with Sligo County Council and Cavan County Council. The application is requesting funding for the development of the project to construction stage and it is anticipated that a full funding application for construction of the Greenway would be submitted in 2020. The 14m investment at IT Sligo was further evidence of the Government's renewed focus on the North West and County Sligo as its growth center according to Deputy Tony McLoughlin. "This really is wonderful news, and I am delighted to see even more funding flowing into Sligo under the Governments Ireland 2040 plan, a plan which was actually launched in IT Sligo just last year," said the Fine Gael TD. He continued: "Today's positive announcement for Sligo comes on the back of over 160 Million investment in upgrading our key roads this year, the 1450 new jobs announced here since January 2018 and the continued focus on helping Sligo to grow to reach its potential. "This capital investment announced today for IT Sligo will facilitate the consolidation on campus of the recently established Yeats Academy of Arts, Design and Architecture and form a North Campus Creative Hub in IT Sligo. "This creative hub will allow art, design and architecture students to optimise the commonalities of the various disciplines in a fit for purpose, collaborative environment. This significant development is an integral part of the master plan of IT Sligo to grow to 10,000 students. "Funding will be provided through the Higher Education Authority. "Today is a great day for IT Sligo, its management and the students here and it is yet another great day for Sligo in general as we continue to be the key recipient of funding under the Fine Gael Governments' 'Ireland 2040' plan." A 19-year-old university student died three days after collapsing in a fast food restaurant in Sligo, from a bleed on her brain, an inquest has heard. Lisa Niland, from Drimbane, Curry was taken to Sligo University Hospital on the evening of 17 January 2017. A scan carried out the following morning showed she had a bleed on her brain and she was transferred to Beaumont Hospital where she was operated on, but surgeons were unable to save her. Her life support machines were turned off and she died on Friday 20 January. Earlier, the Niland family's solicitor Damien Tansey told the court he had received a letter on Friday in which the Health Service Executive said it admitted liability. Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane said it was not the coroner's function to deal with liability. She said the inquest was to find the facts relating to Ms Niland's death and her function was not to blame or to excuse anyone. Ms Niland's father, Gerry, told the Coroner's Court in Dublin the family's lives were shattered and ruined forever by her death. Mr Niland said his daughter and her boyfriend had gone to McDonald's in Sligo for a milkshake on the evening of 17 2017. As Ms Niland walked into the restaurant she complained of a massive headache, slumped to the floor and vomited. She was taken to Sligo University Hospital, where Mr Niland said she was in excruciating pain. He described her as curled up in agony and said she had no balance. Mr Niland said he was asked if his daughter had been drinking and was asked twice by nursing staff if she took drugs. He said he was crystal clear that she did not and was surprised to be asked twice. Mr Niland told the court his daughter was an excellent student, did not smoke and did not take any drugs. He said his wife remained with Lisa overnight and asked several times if she could have something for the pain, but was told that they could not give her anything until a scan had been carried out. Mr Niland said he returned to the hospital the following morning. He said he understood a scan was to be carried out "first thing" but it was around 11am or 11.30am before the family received results of the scan. They were told their daughter had suffered a bleed on her brain and would have to be transferred to Beaumont Hospital. As they returned to her room, they noticed Ms Niland was turning purple. The family called medical staff and she was rushed to the emergency department and then to Beaumont. Mr Niland said the surgeon at Beaumont told him he "couldn't believe what had happened at Sligo". The court heard the cause of Ms Niland's death was a catastrophic bleed to the brain, which would have had instantaneous symptoms. A student at University of Limerick since September 2015, Lisa was also a past pupil of St Attracta's Community College in Tubbercurry. Ireland has a serious problem with unprovoked assaults, according to District Court Judge Kevin Kilrane. Judge Kilrane made the comments after hearing a man was assaulted while coming to the aid of a stranger. Declan O'Brien was punched in the face by Michael Sweeney of 38, Old Bundoran Rd, Rathbraughan on September 10th, 2016. Mr O'Brien, a visitor to Sligo from Dublin, was coming to the aid of another man who was at Rockwood Parade, when the now 42 year old punched him in the mouth. When gardai arrived to the scene Mr O'Brien was in the back of an ambulance and they received witness accounts from two women in a nearby cafe. Sweeney had previously lodged 2,200 by way of compensation for the victim and paid the remaining balance of 800 at the recent court sitting. The court heard Sweeney has 19 previous convictions including public order offences and theft. The court was informed that a Victim Impact Statement had been furnished to a previous court where it was outlined that the victim forgave his attacker. "We have a serious problem in this country with assaults, gratuitous assaults for no good reason whatsoever. "They happen in chip shops, public houses, there have been a number of fatalities," said the Judge. The judged added that victims were in some cases left with serious injuries. "A single blow from an able bodied man can result in very serious injuries and sometimes death." Judge Kilrane convicted Sweeney of assault causing harm and fined him 400. A 13.7m capital allocation towards significant building upgrades has been announced for IT Sligo. The funding is being provided under Project Ireland 2040 and is being seen as a singificant boost in the college's aim to achieving technological university status. The investment will facilitate the consolidation on campus of the recently established Yeats Academy of Arts, Design and Architecture and form a North Campus Creative Hub in IT Sligo. This creative hub will allow art, design and architecture students to optimise the commonalities of the various disciplines in a fit for purpose, collaborative environment. This significant development is an integral part of the master plan of IT Sligo to grow to 10,000 students. Funding will be provided through the Higher Education Authority and was announced by The Minister for Education and Skills Joe McHugh and the Minister of State for Higher Education Mary Mitchell O'Connor. Minister McHugh said: "Today's funding announcement for IT Sligo demonstrates the Government's commitment under Project Ireland 2040 to advancing significant infrastructure investment in the higher education sector. "The funding is part of a broader programme focused on essential campus upgrades and refurbishments. "It will facilitate a significant upgrade of the existing north campus in IT Sligo, bringing together architecture, creative design, fine art, interior architecture & design, performing arts and writing & literature programmes into a creative hub on campus. "The funding will also support IT Sligo as a member of the Connacht Ulster Alliance in working towards Technological University status. "Significant new buildings for the other members of the Alliance, Letterkenny IT and GMIT, are currently being advanced as part of the Higher Education Public Private Partnership Programme. "Together these capital investments will greatly enhance the role of the planned TU as a driver of economic and social development in the West and North West," said the Minister. Minister Mitchell O'Connor said: "Lifelong learning is one of the key objectives of Ireland's National Skills Strategy 2025. IT Sligo has been, and continues to be, a leader in the areas of online and blended learning. "I am pleased that this investment will support the Institute to further expand opportunities in this area, particularly in relation to science and engineering courses. "This funding will facilitate the repurposing of decanted space on campus, enabling IT Sligo to enhance its online, lifelong and research learning provision. "IT Sligo currently has more than 3,000 students taking online/blended learning programmes. These students are mostly based in existing companies and access to an online higher education programme is one of the few ways they can combine learning with work. "To meet the needs for upskilling of the workforce, IT Sligo continues to increase it's offering of higher education online/blended learning programmes. "This development will facilitate the creation of additional dedicated facilities for online learning, including bespoke laboratories, dedicated training areas, delivery suites, online booths adapted for blended learning and virtual learning environments. "In order to achieve its ambition to become a technological university, IT Sligo is also increasing the number of research students. "These researchers will be working with companies across the region to support business development and growth. The Institute's capital development plan includes accommodation for these researchers in existing space and within future capital developments," said the Minister. Gardai raided a house in South Sligo at the week-end and discovered 12 snakes, two lizards, a tarantula and a number of mice along with 200k worth of cannabis plants growing in the attic. Three people, two men and a woman, all Polish nationals, have been remanded in custody to this Thursday's sitting of Sligo District Court arising out of the raid on the house at Cloonloo on Saturday around midday. During the course of the search Gardai discovered the cannabis cultivation operation containing 250 plants as well as processed cannabis herb. The drugs, subject to analysis, have a street value of in excess of 200,000. Following their detention at Ballymote Garda Station, the three arrested were brought before a sitting of Donegal District Court on Monday where they were remanded in custody by Judge Kevin Kilrane. Gardai are seeking help in finding a new home for the animals. The Judge asked that the ISPCA also be informed. Avondale Community College has been approved by the Department for a large extension which will double the size of the Rathdrum school. The Department of Education and Skills has confirmed that the planned extension will increase the school's current capacity of 562 students to 750 students. A meeting between the school's Board of Management and the Department of Education and Skills is due to take place over the coming weeks to iron out any further details and establish a planned time frame for the works. A planning application for the development will then be lodged. Jimmy O'Shaughnessy, Chairman of the Board of Management at Avondale Community College, says the school is in need of expansion, especially considering the level of construction taking place in Rathdrum. 'There are 200 houses currently being built in Rathdrum so it is important that Avondale Community College is able to keep pace with developments taking place locally. This will double the size of the school and has to be welcomed as great news. 'The school catered for 275 students when it first opened in 1992 and an extension carried out in 2007 allowed the school to accommodate 562 students from the wide hinterland and catchment area. With the huge level of development taking place in Rathdrum, you could see student levels reaching close to 900 in the coming years,' said Mr O'Shaughnessy. The extension of the school will also require the use of a green field area on the site but the Bord of Management plan to engage in future talks with local landowners. 'The green field area on the site will disappear to cater for any new extension that might be required in the future, and this will leave restricted recreation area for the students, With this in mind the Board of Management of Avondale Community College and the Principal of the college are seeking more land,' confirmed Mr O'Shaughnessy. Victoria's Secret Angels Jasmine Tookes and Josephine Skriver have flown to Dublin to celebrate St Patrick's Day weekend with friends. The supermodels, who are so close they have their own moniker 'JoJa', often travel the world together, documenting their globe-trotting to Antarctica, Ecuador and Iceland on Instagram. This weekend, they're "pretending to be Irish" in the capital, as Josephine captioned a picture of herself embracing the atmosphere on Dame Lane. Jasmine, joined by boyfriend Juan David Borrero, and Josephine, with boyfriend of six years Alexander DeLeon, proudly shared pictures of their trip to Dublin so far, including a visit to the Jameson Distillery featuring a cocktail class, and a visit to the Stag's Head. It's a fitting choice for two of the world's most successful models as the Victoria's Secret flagship store on Grafton Street is exceptionally successful having made 64,000 per day in its first two months of trading. Their Angel colleague Stella Maxwell is also a regular on our shores thanks to her parents' Belfast roots, and she visits frequently, in particular for St Patrick's Day. Meanwhile, Emily Ratajkowski, who is often spotted in Dublin, Cork and in between, often flies to her second home in Bantry for the weekend that's in it. Respects: United Nations workers mourn their colleagues during a ceremony for the victims at the scene of the plane crash. Photo: REUTERS Investigators in France yesterday examined the black boxes of a Boeing 737 Max that crashed in Ethiopia, as a spooked global airline industry waited to see if the cause was similar to a disaster in Indonesia months before. Ethiopian Airlines flight 302 crashed soon after take-off from Addis Ababa last weekend, killing 157 people including Irish aid worker Micheal Ryan. It was the second such calamity involving Boeing's flagship new model after a jet came down off Indonesia in October with 189 people on board. In both cases, pilots asked to return minutes into flight. The international repercussions are huge. Regulators have grounded the 737 Max around the world, and the US planemaker has halted next deliveries of the several thousand planes on order for a model intended to be the future industry workhorse. Parallels between the twin disasters have frightened travellers worldwide and wiped almost $28bn (24.7bn) off Boeing's stock market value. US aviation authorities say information from the wreckage in Ethiopia, plus newly refined data about its flight path indicated similarities. Two sources said investigators retrieved from the wreckage a piece of a stabiliser, which moves the nose up and down, that was set in an unusual position - one similar to that of the Lion Air plane that crashed in Indonesia. Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crashed minutes after take-off from Addis Ababa for Nairobi, killing all 157 people on board. Pilots were waiting anxiously for the investigation. "Looking at the crash site photos, the aircraft appears to have nose-dived," Paul Gichinga, former head of the Kenya Airline Pilots Association, told Reuters. "The pilot must have gotten some sort of indication that maybe the airspeed was unreliable or something and decided, instead of climbing and going to sort out the problem up there, the best thing was to return to have it sorted." Boeing, the world's biggest planemaker, has said the 737 Max is safe, though it plans to roll out a software upgrade in the coming weeks. It continued to produce at full speed at its factory near Seattle, but paused shipments. French authorities have possession of the flight data and cockpit voice recorders, though Ethiopia is formally leading the investigation and US experts are in Paris and Addis Ababa too. First conclusions could take several days. The 'New York Times' said the Ethiopian captain, Yared Getachew, initially reported a "flight control" problem in a calm voice before asking to return in panicked tones three minutes into the flight. "Break break, request back to home," he told controllers, the newspaper reported, citing a person who had reviewed the communications. The jet initially flew below the minimum safe height for its climb, then once at higher altitude was oscillating up and down by hundreds of feet, all at abnormal speed, the 'Times' said. It then disappeared from radar over a restricted military zone and lost contact with air controllers five minutes after take-off. In Ethiopia, grieving relatives have been visiting the charred and debris-strewn field where the jet came down to pay last respects. Only fragments remain, meaning it may take weeks or months to identify all the victims who came from 35 nations. Some families stormed out of a meeting with Ethiopian Airlines on Thursday complaining about lack of information. Israeli Ilan Matsliah flew to Ethiopia hours after confirming his brother was on board, thinking it would be quick to find remains for burial in accordance with Jewish tradition. "More than 24 hours is a problem for us. But I have been here for more than 96 hours," the 46-year-old said. "We are now stuck in the same place, the same as Monday. We are very emotional." With heightened global scrutiny, the head of Indonesia's transport safety committee said a report into the Lion Air crash would be speeded up for release in July or August. A preliminary report focused on maintenance, training and the response of a Boeing anti-stall system to a recently replaced sensor. Legal experts said even non-US families of the Ethiopia victims may be able to sue Chicago-based Boeing in the US - where payouts are larger - as eight of the dead were American and plaintiffs may argue liability hinges on system design and safety decisions made by executives. A refugee who ran towards the Christchurch terror attacker is being hailed a hero for preventing more deaths. When the attacker, alleged to be white supremacist Brenton Tarrant, entered the Linwood mosque in Christchurch, Abdul Aziz, 48, picked up the first thing he could find a credit card machine and ran outside, screaming: Come here! His actions led the gunman on a cat-and-mouse chase before scaring him into speeding away in his car. But Mr Aziz, whose four sons and dozens of others remained in the mosque while he faced off with the gunman, said he thinks its what anyone would have done. The terrorist killed 49 people after attacking two mosques in the deadliest mass shooting in New Zealands modern history. He is believed to have killed 41 people at the Al Noor mosque before driving about three miles across town and attacking the Linwood mosque, where he killed seven more people. One person died later in a hospital. Expand Close Mourners place flowers as they pay their respects at a makeshift memorial near the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch (Vincent Yu/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Mourners place flowers as they pay their respects at a makeshift memorial near the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch (Vincent Yu/AP) Tarrant, 28, has been charged with one count of murder and a judge said on Saturday that it was reasonable to assume more charges would follow. Latef Alabi, the Linwood mosques acting imam, said the death toll would have been far higher if it wasnt for Mr Aziz. Mr Alabi said he heard a voice outside the mosque at about 1:55 pm and stopped the prayer he was leading and peeked out the window. He saw a man in black military-style gear and a helmet holding a large gun, and assumed it was a police officer. Then he saw two bodies and heard the gunman yelling obscenities. I realised this is something else. This is a killer, he said. I've been to a lot of countries and this is one of the beautiful onesAbdul Aziz He yelled at the congregation of more than 80 to get down. They hesitated. A shot rang out, a window shattered and a body fell, and people began to realise it was for real. Then this brother came over. He went after him, and he managed to overpower him, and thats how we were saved, Mr Alabi said, referring to Mr Aziz. Otherwise, if he managed to come into the mosque, then we would all probably be gone. Mr Aziz said as he ran outside screaming, he was hoping to distract the attacker. He said the gunman ran back to his car to get another gun, and Mr Aziz hurled the credit card machine at him. He said he could hear his two youngest sons, aged 11 and five, urging him to come back inside. The gunman returned, firing. Mr Aziz said he ran, weaving through cars parked in the driveway, which prevented the gunman from getting a clean shot. Then Mr Aziz spotted a gun the gunman had abandoned and picked it up, pointed it and squeezed the trigger. It was empty. He said the gunman ran back to the car for a second time, likely to grab yet another weapon. He gets into his car and I just got the gun and threw it on his window like an arrow and blasted his window, he said. The window shattered: Thats why he got scared. He said the gunman was cursing at him, yelling that he was going to kill them all. But he drove away and Mr Aziz said he chased the car down the street to a red light, before it made a U-turn and sped away. Online videos indicate police officers managed to force the car from the road and drag out the suspect soon after. Originally from Kabul, Afghanistan, Mr Aziz said he left as a refugee when he was a boy and lived for more than 25 years in Australia before moving to New Zealand a couple of years ago. Ive been to a lot of countries and this is one of the beautiful ones, he said. And, he always thought, a peaceful one as well. Mr Aziz said he did not feel fear or much of anything when facing the gunman. It was like he was on autopilot. And he believes that God, that Allah, did not think it was his time to die. Attack: A still from the live stream of the massacre shows Tarrant holding a gun as he enters the mosque. Photo: Social Media Website/Handout via Reuters Tearful tribute: Locals lay flowers in tribute to those killed and injured at the Al Noor Mosque. Photo: Getty You could hear a pin drop as the faithful settled down to hear the Imam's sermon. Then came the deafening crack of gunfire. Seconds later panic spread through Christchurch's Al Noor mosque as those inside realised what was happening and tried desperately to flee or find shelter from the bullets. By the time the carnage ended, 41 people lay dead, with seven more killed at an Islamic centre a few miles away. A 49th victim died in hospital, where another 48 were being treated, many for gunshot wounds. As New Zealanders tried to come to terms with the dreadful events they had witnessed, Jacinda Ardern, their prime minister, described it as one of the country's "darkest days". Western leaders from Donald Trump to Angela Merkel expressed solidarity with the people of New Zealand, deploring what the White House called a "vicious act of hate". Pope Francis called the attacks "senseless acts of violence". Expand Close White supremacist: Brenton Tarrant pictured in Pakistan 2018 / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp White supremacist: Brenton Tarrant pictured in Pakistan 2018 It had started routinely enough, with 300 people attending Friday prayers inside the Al Noor mosque, located close to the city's Hagley Park. Farid Ahmed, who was among the congregation, would later describe it as "peaceful, calm and quiet. As it is when the sermon starts, you could hear a pin drop". But at 1.40pm, gunfire broke out. Read More "It started in the main room," said Mr Ahmed. "I was in the side room, so I didn't see who was shooting, but I saw that some people were running out to my room where I was in; I saw some people had blood on their body and some people were limping. It was at [that] moment I realised things were really serious." Expand Close A distraught survivor reacts as he speaks on a mobile phone near the mosque in central Christchurch. Photo: Mark Baker/AP Photo / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A distraught survivor reacts as he speaks on a mobile phone near the mosque in central Christchurch. Photo: Mark Baker/AP Photo It became apparent that a gunman was making his way from room to room, shooting at anyone he saw, starting with the men's prayer room before moving to the women's section. Mr Ahmed said the shooting went on "for six minutes or more". "I could hear screaming and crying, I saw some people drop dead, some people were running away; I was in a wheelchair, so I couldn't get anywhere." After the shooting ended, Mr Ahmed managed to push himself in his wheelchair into the main part of the mosque, desperately trying to find his wife and to help others. "To the right, I saw about 20-plus people; some were dead, some were screaming. On the left there were 10-plus people; some were dead," he said. "I saw the bullet shells on the floor, so many hundreds." Expand Close Christchurch mosque shootings graphic / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Christchurch mosque shootings graphic Another worshipper, who hid underneath a bench, described how the gunman calmly reloaded at least seven times before targeting those fleeing. "Bang, bang, bang; then when the bullets stop he [would] change the magazine again," said Mr Ahmed. Mohan Ibrahim was inside the mosque when he heard shots, mistaking them for a short-circuit in the building's lighting system. "At first we thought it was an electric shock but then all these people started running. I realised it was a gun shooting," he said. "I managed to get out. It was like 10 to 15 minutes of continuous shooting. He was changing his gun. I cannot forget the sound of shooting and scenery I saw with my eyes. Innocent people have just died." Len Peneha, who lives near the mosque, had watched in horror from outside as the gunman, dressed in black, entered. Expand Close Carnage: Ambulance personnel evacuate a wounded man. Photo: Mark Baker/AP Photo / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Carnage: Ambulance personnel evacuate a wounded man. Photo: Mark Baker/AP Photo He then heard dozens of shots, followed by people fleeing the building in terror, many of them barefoot, having taken off their shoes before going in, as is customary for Muslims. Read More As the gunman fled, Mr Peneha went inside to try to help the injured, taking five to his nearby home. "I saw dead people everywhere," he said. "There were three in the hallway, at the door leading into the mosque, and people inside the mosque. "I don't understand how anyone could do this to these people, to anyone. I've lived next door to this mosque for about five years and the people are great, they're very friendly. I just don't understand it." A short time after the massacre at the Al Noor mosque, the horror began again, as a gunman entered the Linwood Islamic Centre, a 10-minute drive away. Here, seven worshippers were killed when a gunman wearing a black motorcycle helmet opened fire on 100 people praying inside. Mark Nichols, the manager of nearby Premium Tyres, reported seeing the attacker run past his shop before hearing five gunshots from the direction of the mosque. Moments later two of the injured people were carried past on stretchers. Expand Close Names written on ammunition seen in a photo posted on Twitter by the gunman. Photo: Twitter/via Reuters / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Names written on ammunition seen in a photo posted on Twitter by the gunman. Photo: Twitter/via Reuters "I've seen a guy with a gun running up the road. He's been firing about five shots," Mr Nichols said. "It might have been a shotgun. I didn't get a good look at it, I just cleared off." The initial attack was streamed live on Facebook. The 17-minute video showed the man driving toward the Al Noor mosque with several high-powered rifles on the passenger seat of his silver Subaru. On them were written the names of Luca Traini, a far-Right Italian terrorist jailed for 12 years for shooting and wounding six African migrants in the city of Macerata last year, and Josue Estebanez, a Spanish former soldier who stabbed and killed a 16-year-old anti-fascist protester in Madrid in 2007. Three minutes into the video, the attacker stops the car, directs the camera at himself and says "hello lads" before setting off again. Approaching the entrance of the mosque, the gunman begins firing indiscriminately. At one point a man runs toward him, only to be gunned down. He emerges after several minutes and children's screams can be heard as he fires at the dead and dying outside, including a woman who stumbles into the street shouting for help. Back in the car, he laughs and says the attack "did not go as planned... f***ing Christ", before driving away. 'Fire', by The Crazy World Of Arthur Brown, is playing from the car speakers, with the line "I am the god of hellfire." Buildings in central Christchurch went into lockdown and around 3.15pm reports began to emerge of a bomb being found in a car parked in Strickland Street, about two miles south of the mosque. Police confirmed they were dealing with multiple, simultaneous attacks. A short time later, a man was arrested in Brougham Street, a dual carriageway running east-to-west through the city. Nathan Cambus described how armed police chased a vehicle and forced it to stop: "They pulled three guns, maybe four, from the car and then they pulled the man out right over the handbrake... it was pretty scary." As police began their investigation into New Zealand's worst mass shooting, it became apparent that the gunman - who before the rampage identified himself online as Brenton Tarrant, an Australian citizen - was a committed white supremacist inspired by the likes of Anders Breivik, the far-right terrorist who killed 77 people in attacks in Norway in July 2011. On a now-deleted Twitter account, Tarrant posted a link to a 74-page "manifesto" quoting the Dylan Thomas poem 'Do not go gentle into that good night', and ranting about "white genocide". The 28-year-old from Grafton, in New South Wales, outlined his aim to "create an atmosphere of fear" and to "incite violence" against Muslims. Yesterday, standing outside the Al Noor mosque, his clothes bloodstained from trying to help the wounded, was Noor Hamzah (54), who came to New Zealand from Malaysia in the 1980s. "This is a disaster for New Zealand. A black day," he said. What we know so far - At least 41 people were killed at the Masjid Al Noor mosque in central Christchurch while at least seven people died inside the suburban Linwood Masjid Mosque. One person died in hospital. In all, a total of 49 people were killed in Friday's shootings. - Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old from Australia, was charged with murder and appeared at a Christchurch court on Saturday morning. He was remanded until April 5. Police said further charges were expected to follow. - Two others are in custody over the attacks and police are working to establish whether they had any involvement in the incident. A fourth person arrested on Friday, who was in possession of a firearm but with the intention of assisting police, was released a short time later. - 39 people remained in the care of Christchurch Hospital on Saturday, 11 of them in intensive care. - Four people died en route to the hospital. - The majority of the patients were said to be male, aged between 30 and 40, while two of them are boys aged two and 13. - A four-year-old girl was transferred to a hospital in Auckland in a critical condition. - New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern said children were among the victims. - Ms Ardern also said the suspect held a Category A gun licence which enabled him to legally obtain semi-automatic weapons. She later said the firearms used in the mosque shootings appeared to have been modified. She said the country's gun laws would change in the wake of the attack. - Tarrant appeared to have live-streamed the terror attack and outlined his anti-immigrant motives in a manifesto posted online. - Social media firms were criticised over the speed of their action to remove the footage from their platforms. - Two improvised explosive devices were found on a vehicle after the shootings and were defused by police. - Police said they were not actively looking for any identified suspects but said "that doesn't mean they don't exist". - Officers first received reports of shots fired in central Christchurch at about 1.40pm local time (12.40am GMT). - All schools in Christchurch were put on lockdown and mosques told to shut their doors. ( Daily Telegraph, London) Telegraph Media Group Limited [2021] Christchurch remains in shut-down and the Irish community there have been left in fear after a gunman labelled immigrants invaders, before killing 49 people on Friday. Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian man, appeared in court in connection with the terror attack, which saw 49 people shot dead in two Christchurch mosques and a further 42 left injured. There is a large Irish community in the radius of the Masjid al Noor mosque in central Christchurch, where 42 people were killed, and the mosque in the Linwood neighbourhood, where another seven were shot dead by the gunman. Speaking to the Independent.ie, manager of the local Irish bar The Bog, John Menary from Co Louth, said that fear spread throughout the Irish community following the attack. Prior to the attack, which was broadcasted on Facebook, the gunman condemned immigrants, labelling them invaders. Mr Menary said that the Irish immigrants in Christchurch empathise with their Muslim counterparts. Yesterday scared me. I live three or four minutes from where the shooting happened and I locked my door. I have never felt that way in New Zealand before, he said. The community has been affected really badly. I manage the local Irish bar so Im part of a community and its St. Patricks weekend and its all cancelled. We all met this morning, all of the Irish communities and the GAA clubs all came together and we walked a certain distance and laid flowers and were shocked. Read More The Muslim community are just like us. Theyre foreigners in this country just like we are. Were Irish and were foreigners in this country too. The way we look at it, were a community, theyre a community, and if there were 49 Irish people shot dead, we would be absolutely devastated and were devastated for them. Mr Menary, who left Dundalk for New Zealand two years ago, said that Christchurch is at a standstill as the local community absorbs what was the countrys worst-ever terrorist attack. I left Ireland two years ago to live here, and I had never felt safer in my whole life. Yesterday I felt so unsafe and I just felt so upset. This is my home now, he said emotionally. The whole city is shut down. Every shop is shut down. Its the biggest massacre in New Zealands history. Its not something that were used to so a lot of people are still numb, still not going about their daily business. I went into the city expecting things to be just going on like normal, but they didnt. Everything was still frozen. Youd never ever guess New Zealand to be a terrorist attack country. Some lunatic has just got it into his head as an easy target. I dont think that Ireland has anything to worry about, I just think it was one lunatic who got something in his head." Tearful tribute: Locals lay flowers in tribute to those killed and injured at the Al Noor Mosque. Photo: Getty Clutched tightly by his adoring father, the fair-haired blue-eyed toddler was the picture of innocence. It was, by his mother's own account, one of her fondest memories - the family together on holiday in Hawaii. Brenton Tarrant had just celebrated his birthday and would go on to enjoy a normal upbringing in New South Wales, alongside his father, Rodney, mother and sister. Indeed, he describes himself as an "ordinary white man", born into a working class, low-income family of Scottish, Irish and English descent. By all accounts, his life was unremarkable, leaving school to become a fitness instructor at a local gym. In 2010, his father died of an asbestos-related cancer and shortly afterwards Tarrant left the family home to travel the world. During the years he was away, his mother, an English teacher, wrote online fondly of her "Brento" and appeared blissfully unaware of how his world had turned. Tarrant's travels took him through much of Europe, North Korea, India and Japan. Last year, he described Pakistan as "an incredible place filled with the most earnest, kind-hearted and hospitable people in the world". At some point during this journey, something in Tarrant changed. He is thought to have become obsessed with the terrorist attacks in Europe in 2016 and 2017, specifically referencing the death of 11-year-old Ebba Akerlund, one of five people killed in a terror attack in Stockholm in 2017. Tarrant's references to British heritage in his 'manifesto' appear tenuous - both his parents and his grandparents are thought to have been born in Australia. In his 17,000-word manifesto, Tarrant describes his native country as a lacklustre, apathetic offshoot of Britain. "The origins of my language is European, my culture is European, my political beliefs are European, my philosophical beliefs are European, my identity is European and, most importantly, my blood is European," he writes. "What is an Australian but a drunk European? Kidding, but Australia is a European colony, particularly of British stock and thereby an extension of Europe." Perhaps tellingly, Tarrant opens the document with 'Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night', the poem by Dylan Thomas as an ode to his dying father. He declares himself to be pro-Brexit and admits to being a fascist, saying he feels an affinity with Oswald Mosley. Yet he goes on to compare himself to Nelson Mandela and state that he expects to win the Nobel Peace prize. He says he is racist but not a xenophobe and declares support for Donald Trump "as a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose". He cites attacks in Europe as the cause of his radicalisation and states that he hopes to "create conflict" in the US over gun ownership. He also claims to have had "contact" with Anders Breivik, the terrorist who murdered 77 people in Norway in 2011. Eating more eggs could increase a person's risk of heart disease, new research suggests. A study of more than 30,000 adults in the US has linked consuming an additional half an egg per day with a slightly higher chance of cardiovascular disease. The researchers, from Northwestern University, in Illinois, said people need to consume less cholesterol, which is found in eggs as well as other foods such as red and processed meat. The study, published in the journal 'JAMA', found eating three to four eggs per week was associated with a 6pc higher risk of heart and circulatory diseases. Mourners pay their respects at a makeshift memorial near the Masjid Al Noor mosque (AP Photo/Vincent Yu) Several of those killed or wounded in the shooting rampage at two New Zealand mosques on Friday were from the Middle East or South Asia, according to initial reports from several governments. The live-streamed attack killed at least 49 people as they gathered for weekly prayers in Christchurch. Another 48 people suffered gunshot wounds in the attacks. Bangladeshs honorary consul in Auckland, Shafiqur Rahman Bhuiyan, said that so far three Bangladeshis were among those killed and four or five others were wounded, including two left in a critical condition. One leg of an injured needed to be amputated while another suffered bullet injuries in his chest, Mr Rahman Bhuiyan said. He declined to identify the dead or wounded. Expand Close A message is displayed at a makeshift memorial outside Christchurch Hospital (AP Photo/Vincent Thian) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A message is displayed at a makeshift memorial outside Christchurch Hospital (AP Photo/Vincent Thian) The number of Jordanians killed in the New Zealand mosque shootings has risen to three after a wounded man died of his injuries. Jordans Foreign Ministry announced the death on Saturday. The ministry said a Jordanian diplomat is on his way to New Zealand to coordinate with local authorities. In the immediate aftermath of Fridays attack on two Christchurch mosques, the Foreign Ministry had announced that two Jordanians were among the 49 people killed, and that eight Jordanians had been wounded. Christchurch Hospital chief Greg Robertson said on Saturday that seven of the 48 gunshot victims admitted after the shootings had been discharged. Mr Robertson said a four-year-old girl who had been transferred to an Auckland hospital was in critical condition and 11 patients who remained in Christchurch were also critically wounded. We have had patients with injuries to most parts of the body that range from relatively superficial soft tissue injuries to more complex injuries involving the chest, the abdomen, the pelvis, the long bones and the head, he said. Many patients will require multiple operations to deal with their complex series of injuries, he added. Expand Close A bouquet of flowers is placed near Christchurch Hospital (AP Photo/Mark Baker) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A bouquet of flowers is placed near Christchurch Hospital (AP Photo/Mark Baker) He said a two-year-old boy was in stable condition, as was a 13-year-old boy. Mohammed Elyan, a Jordanian in his 60s who co-founded one of the mosques in 1993, was among those wounded, as was his son, Atta, who is in his 30s, according to Muath Elyan, Mohammeds brother, who said he spoke to Mohammeds wife after the shooting. He said his brother helped establish the mosque a year after arriving in New Zealand, where he teaches engineering at a university and runs a consultancy. He said his brother last visited Jordan two years ago. He used to tell us life was good in New Zealand and its people are good and welcoming. He enjoyed freedom there and never complained about anything, he added. Im sure this bloody crime doesnt represent the New Zealanders. Pakistans Foreign Ministry said four Pakistanis were wounded, and Ministry spokesman Mohammad Faisal tweeted that five other Pakistani citizens were missing after Fridays attacks. Update on New Zealand terrorism incident - 4 Pakistanis injured and being treated in hospitals - 5 Pakistanis are missing. Identities are being authenticated in consultation with local authorities. Dr Mohammad Faisal (@DrMFaisal) March 15, 2019 Terrorism in #NewZealand: One Pakistani injured identified as Muhammad Amin Nasir, DOB: 01-10-1951, from Hafizabad. He is in ICU and remains in critical comdition. #pakistanagainstterror Dr Mohammad Faisal (@DrMFaisal) March 16, 2019 Malaysia said two of its citizens were hospitalised, and the Saudi Embassy in Wellington said two Saudis were wounded. Indias high commissioner to New Zealand, Sanjiv Kohli, tweeted on Saturday that nine Indians were missing and called the attack a huge crime against humanity. Indian officials have not said whether the nine were believed to be living in Christchurch. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said at least three Turkish citizens were wounded in the attacks in New Zealand and that he had spoken to one of them. Afghanistans ambassador to Australia and New Zealand said two Afghans were missing and a third person of Afghan origin was treated and released from the hospital. Egypt said four Egyptians were among those killed in the shootings. The emigration ministry said on Saturday that authorities in New Zealand have the deaths, including two 68-year-olds. The ages of the other two victims were not given. Two Indonesians, a father and son, were also among those shot and wounded, Foreign Ministry spokesman Arrmanatha Nasir said. Mr Nasir said the father was being treated at an intensive care unit and his son was in another ward at the same hospital. He declined to identify them. Later, a Jordanian man said his four-year-old niece is fighting for her life after being wounded in the attack. Sabri Daraghmeh said the girl, Elin, remains in the danger phase and that her father, Waseem Mr Daraghmehs brother is in a stable condition. Investigators seeking the cause of the crash of an Ethiopian Airlines plane that killed all 157 people on board have begun studying the cockpit voice recorder, France's BEA air accident investigation agency said on Saturday. Downloading the data from the recorder retrieved from wreckage of the Boeing 737 MAX 8 plane was expected to take four to five hours, a spokesman for the agency said. The BEA also issued a photo showing the recorder intact but dented by the impact of the plane's crash into a field on Sunday minutes after take-off from Addis Ababa. The Ethiopian carrier said DNA testing of the remains of the people on board flight 302 may take up to six months, and it offered bereaved families charred earth from the plane crash site to bury. Passengers from more than 30 nations were aboard. Expand Close One of the black box flight recorders from the crashed Ethiopian Airlines jet (BEA/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp One of the black box flight recorders from the crashed Ethiopian Airlines jet (BEA/AP) As families wait for the results from the investigation into the cause of the crash, Ethiopian Airlines is planning to hold a service on Sunday in Addis Ababa, at the Kidist Selassie, or Holy Trinity Cathedral, where many of the country's past rulers are buried beneath its pink stone spires. "We were told by the company that we will be given a kilo (of earth) each for burial at Selassie Church for a funeral they will organise," said one family member who asked not to be named. Papers given to the families at the Skylight Hotel on Saturday said death certificates would be issued within two weeks, and an initial payment made to cover immediate expenses. The return of remains - most of which are charred and fragmented - would take up to six months, the papers said, but in the meantime earth from the crash site would be given. Expand Close Two men carry suitcases containing the flight recorders from the Ethiopian jet into the French air accident investigation authority (Christopher Ena/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Two men carry suitcases containing the flight recorders from the Ethiopian jet into the French air accident investigation authority (Christopher Ena/AP) Abdulmajid Sheriff, a Kenyan whose Yemeni brother-in-law died, said the family had already held a service. "We are Muslims we didn't care about that (earth). We did yesterday our prayers at the mosque and that is all for us." Experts say it is too soon to know what caused the crash, but aviation authorities worldwide have grounded Boeing's 737 MAXs, as concerns over the plane caused the company's share price to tumble. Flight data has already indicated some similarities with a crash by the same model of plane during a Lion Air flight in October. All 189 people onboard were killed. Both planes crashed within minutes of take off after pilots reported problems. Expand Close Families mourn victims of the Ethiopian air crash. Picture: Reuters / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Families mourn victims of the Ethiopian air crash. Picture: Reuters France's air accident investigation agency said on Saturday it was working on the Ethiopian flight's black boxes in coordination with teams from Boeing as well as U.S. and EU aviation safety authorities. The grounding of the 737 MAX jets has had no immediate financial impact on airlines using the planes, but it will get painful for the industry the longer they do not fly, companies and analysts said on Friday. Boeing plans to release upgraded software for the 737 MAX in a week to 10 days, sources familiar with the matter said. The U.S. planemaker has been working on a software upgrade for an anti-stall system and pilot displays on its fastest-selling jetliner in the wake of the deadly Lion Air crash. The US-backed Syrian forces' push to defeat Isil in its last bastion in Syria has been slowed by the presence of civilians and scores of prisoners held by the extremists, officials said. The official with the Syrian Democratic Forces, who goes by the name Ciyager, said Isil militants are still holding 300 prisoners, both civilians and SDF fighters, adding that their fate is unknown. The campaign to uproot the militants from the eastern banks of the Euphrates River began in September, pushing them down towards a last corner in the village of Baghouz, near the Iraqi border. The military operation has been halted several times since February 12 as the SDF said that a large number of civilians and hostages were in the territory, a tent camp above a network of caves and tunnels. This week, the SDF resumed its final push before reducing pressure due to strong resistance from the extremists and the surrender of hundreds of Isil fighters and family members. Ciyager said that there are no negotiations under way in order to secure the prisoners' release. An SDF statement said hundreds of Isil fighters and their families surrendered on Thursday. Some fighters have surrendered in recent weeks, but hardcore militants, including many foreigners, are still holed up in the shrinking space along the eastern bank of the Euphrates River. SDF commanders have stopped speculating over when the battle may finally be over. Already 25,000 people have left Baghouz, thousands more than were originally believed inside. Commanders say that they do not know how many more may be left, hiding in tunnels beneath the war-scarred village. Yesterday the situation was quiet as aircraft flew over the area controlled by Isil. The capture of the last pocket still held by Isil fighters would mark the end of a devastating four-year global campaign to end the extremist group's hold on territory in Syria and Iraq - a self-declared caliphate that at the height of the group's power in 2014 sprawled across nearly a third of Iraq and Syria. Smoke and flame are seen during an Israeli air strike in Gaza March 15, 2019. Photo: REUTERS/Mohammed Salem Israel pounded Gaza with airstrikes hitting 100 locations after militants in the territory fired two rockets towards Tel Aviv, the first time the coastal city has been targeted since the war in 2014. The rockets triggered sirens in Israel's bustling commercial capital which lies some 80km north of Gaza and so is rarely affected by cross-border fire. No damage or injuries were reported but the rare long-range attack sparked fears of another war just weeks ahead of general elections in Israel, which in the past have been preceded by Israeli military incursions in the Strip. In retaliation, Israeli fighter jets struck areas across Gaza yesterday morning, injuring two people. It prompted a slew of rockets back into Israel, most of which were intercepted by Israel's powerful Iron Dome missile defence system. "[Israeli] fighter jets, attack helicopters and other aircraft struck approximately 100 military targets belonging to the Hamas," the army said in a statement. It added that it holds Hamas "responsible for all events transpiring in the Gaza Strip and emanating from it". In Gaza, the health ministry reported that a man and a woman were injured by an air strike which hit Rafah, a town near the border with Egypt. Hamas denied it was behind the Tel Aviv attack, saying the rockets were fired at a time when officials were meeting an Egyptian security delegation to discuss arrangements for the Strip. Islamic Jihad, another powerful armed faction within Gaza, also denied responsibility and later said it would hold fire if Israel did. Palestinian families reported heavy fire throughout the early morning and posted photos showing explosions from air strikes lighting up the sky. "We were shaken awake by the bombing, our house was rocking," Haneen Owda (26), who lives in north Gaza, said. "It has been intense all morning," she added. Organisers of the weekly "Great March of Return" protests along the Gaza border fence with Israel cancelled planned rallies yesterday in light of the air strikes. The regular protests, calling for the right of Palestinians to return to land they were forced from or fled during the creation of Israel, often see Palestinians launch incendiary kites and balloons tied with explosives at Israel. Israeli military forces have faced accusations by the United Nations of committing possible war crimes for firing back, killing nearly 200 people and injuring thousands. Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel's prime minister, met security officials in the country's military headquarters in Tel Aviv following the rocket fire. Ronen Manelis, the Israeli army's chief spokesman, said officials had no prior warning of the rocket attack and were trying to pinpoint who was behind the attack. The Israeli army later released a statement saying Hamas was responsible and posted video footage of the attack's aftermath on its official Twitter account. Army intelligence officials later said the rockets were fired towards Tel Aviv "by mistake". ( Independent News Service) Taoiseach Leo Varadkar presents US President Donald Trump with a bowl of Shamrock during a St Patrick's Day Celebration reception and Shamrock presentation ceremony at the White House. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA PRESIDENT Donald Trump could visit Ireland as early as the summer, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said. He identified two possible dates that the US President could visit - June and December. Mr Trump plans to travel to Europe in June for the 75th anniversary of the World War II D-Day landings in June. He is due to visit a Nato summit in London in December. Mr Trump may tack on some time in Ireland around these times. Mr Varadkar said there are no details in relation to Mr Trump's plans for when he visits Ireland. Expand Close Donald and Melania Trump greeting Leo Varadkar and his partner Matt Barrett at the White House Photo: Melania Trump/Twitter / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Donald and Melania Trump greeting Leo Varadkar and his partner Matt Barrett at the White House Photo: Melania Trump/Twitter "He is going to travel to Europe both for the D-Day anniversary and for the Nato anniversary so it's possible that he'll make the trip to Ireland before or after one of those but it's still early days yet". Asked if it could happen as early as June Mr Varadkar said: "It's possible but there's no firm date discussed or agreed. But he does intend to travel to Europe at least twice between now and the end of the year." He said a visit to Ireland being added on to one of those trip would be the most likely scenario. The US Special Counsel's Office yesterday asked a court to delay sentencing for US President Donald Trump's former deputy campaign chairman Rick Gates amid "ongoing investigations" stemming from the Russia investigation. In a filing with the US District Court in Washington, Special Counsel Robert Mueller cited Gates's continued co-operation with multiple probes and asked permission to update the judge on the case by May 14. "Gates continues to co-operate with respect to several ongoing investigations, and accordingly the parties do not believe it is appropriate to commence the sentencing process at this time," Mr Mueller's team said. Gates is one of several Trump advisers who have been charged or pleaded guilty to crimes stemming from the federal investigation into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 US presidential election and possible collusion with Mr Trump's campaign. Gates pleaded guilty in February 2018 to conspiracy against the United States and lying to investigators. Trump has said there was no collusion between his campaign and Moscow, and has characterised the Mueller probe as a "witch hunt". Irish mixed martial artist Conor McGregor (right) joins Mayor of Chicago Rahm Emanuel during the St Patrick's Day Parade in Chicago. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Conor McGregor joins Mayor of Chicago Rahm Emanuel during the St Patrick's Day Parade in Chicago. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA Wire TAOISEACH Leo Varadkar has said he didn't know Conor McGregor would be marching in the Chicago St Patrick's Day parade and said he didn't think the controversial UFC fighter was representing the country. McGregor took to the streets of the Windy City, walking alongside the mayor of Chicago, Rahm Emanuel - a one-time chief of staff for former US President Barack Obama. Mr Varadkar and rural development minister Michael Ring also took part but the Taoiseach was not walking directly beside the Dublin-born fighter. The Taoiseach @campaignforleo has said he was unaware that Conor McGregor would be marching close to him at todays #StPatricksDay parade in Chicago. Asked if he thought it was appropriate, he said its up to the organisers who to invite. @rtenews pic.twitter.com/CKNKlWARii Brian O'Donovan (@BrianOD_News) March 16, 2019 Mr McGregor hit the headlines last week and faces up to 15 years in prison in the US after allegedly smashing a fan's phone in Miami. He previously avoided a criminal record after he pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct at a UFC event in New York last year. Mr Varadkar said he wasn't aware Mr McGregor would be there and said: "I imagine the parade organisers invited him, but thats it really." He said he didn't have any discussion with Mr McGregor. Mr Varadkar was asked if it was appropriate that Mr McGregor was representing Ireland given his conviction for disorderly conduct. He replied: "I think that is up to the organisers of the parade to decide who they want to march in the parade". The Taoiseach added: "I dont think he was representing the country, thats kind of what I was doing and Mr Ring." Yesterday afternoon the mayor Mr Emanuel described Mr McGregor as a special visitor. We are out here in Chicago supporting the First Responders with @binnysbev and @properwhiskey! Thank you guys for the hospitality and for supporting these everyday heroes with me! Lets go everybody, St. Paddys weekend begins now!!! pic.twitter.com/lam2ijQ32X Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) March 16, 2019 He also tweeted: Its a pleasure to have you here with us for St. Paddys weekend, Conor! Thank you for your support of our devoted first responders. Erin Go Bragh! Later Mr Emanuel appeared to scramble to acknowledge The Taoiseach had also been there and posted a series of Tweets about Mr Varadkar. He said: St. Patricks Day celebrations wouldnt be complete without Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, Taoiseach of #Ireland. Thank you for joining us for todays wonderful festivities, After that he posted: Honored to have you here in Chicago with us for #StPatricksDay2019 In another post he said: Today is a great day to celebrate the contributions of the Irish to the cultural, civic and economic vitality of Chicago. It is also a day to celebrate the citys history of bringing people together from different parts of the world. Thank you, again for joining us @CampaignforLeo. The massive Chicago parade lasts three hours and features marching pipe bands and Irish dancers. A highlight of the day is the Chicago River being dyed green. During the week police in Miami charged Mr McGregor with "strong-arm robbery and criminal mischief" after the alleged incident outside the Fontainebleau Hotel on Monday night. According to the police report, the incident occurred while McGregor and the complainant were exiting the hotel and the fan tried to take a photo with him. Strong-armed robbery, a theft involving violence, is a second-degree felony in the state of Miami. Conviction of the charge can lead to a heavy fine and a prison sentence not exceeding 15 years. The sentence depends on criminal history, especially history of violence, the value of what was stolen and whether the victim was injured. McGregor's lawyer said the Dublin man was giving his full co-operation in the case. "I believe at the end of the day that we will successfully defend this case," Sam Rabin told 'Newstalk Breakfast'. "I can't tell you what the outcome will be, but I certainly don't see him going to jail over something like this." McGregor thanked his fans on social media for their support. "Patience in this world is a virtue I continue to work on," he wrote. McGregor previously avoided a criminal record after he pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct at a UFC event in New York last year. Several people were hurt when he hurled a trolley at a bus, smashing a window, as it left the Barclays Centre in Brooklyn in April. Fighters Michael Chiesa and Ray Borg were injured by shattered glass and unable to compete. McGregor avoided jail after he agreed to undertake community service. He also had to undertake anger management courses and pledged to keep the peace for a year. The case was before court in July 2018. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump wished people a Happy St Patricks Day on Twitter. He also shared pictures of himself and Mr Varadkar at Thursdays shamrock ceremony and the White House fountain dyed green. Some bridges were washed out in the flooding (Jeff Bundy/Omaha World-Herald/AP) Rescue efforts are under way in parts of the American Midwest after a recent deluge of rain and melted snow poured over frozen ground, overwhelming creeks and rivers and killing at least one person. Levee breaches and washouts of bridges and roads hampered operations in eastern Nebraska, including part of Nebraska Highway 92, leading in and out of south-west Omaha. Authorities confirmed that a bridge on that major road which crosses the Elkhorn River had been washed out on Saturday. In Freemont, west of Omaha, the Dodge County sheriffs office issued a mandatory evacuation for some residents after floodwaters broke through a levee along the Platte River. Expand Close Floodwaters in Freeport, Illinois (Scott P Yates/Rockford Register Star via AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Floodwaters in Freeport, Illinois (Scott P Yates/Rockford Register Star via AP) The flooding followed record days of snow and rain that swept through the US West and Midwest. The deluge pushed some waterways to record levels in Nebraska, South Dakota, Iowa and Minnesota. The flooding was the worst in nearly a decade in places. The family of farmer James Wilke, 50, of Columbus, Nebraska, said he was killed on Thursday when a bridge collapsed as he was using his tractor to try to reach stranded motorists on Thursday. His body was found downstream, his cousin Paul Wilke told the Columbus Telegram. At least two other people are missing in floodwaters in Nebraska. Officials said a Norfolk man was seen on top of his flooded car late on Thursday before being swept away in the water, and another man was swept away by waters when a dam collapsed on the Niobrara River. Officials in Sarpy County, south of Omaha, said power may be shut off to communities along the Missouri, Platte and Elkhorn rivers for safety reasons. Expand Close Green Bay firefighters assist residents in evacuating their homes due to the East river flooding in Wisconsin (AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Green Bay firefighters assist residents in evacuating their homes due to the East river flooding in Wisconsin (AP) They warned those who choose to ignore calls to evacuate that rescues would be attempted only during daylight hours. Some cities and towns, such as North Bend on the banks of the Platte River, were submerged. Others, such as Waterloo and Freemont, were surrounded by floodwaters, stranding residents in virtual islands with no access in or out. Further east, the Mississippi River saw moderate flooding in Illinois from Rock Island south to Gladstone. Expand Close The swollen Pecatonica River spills into Darlington, Wisconsin (Dave Kettering/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The swollen Pecatonica River spills into Darlington, Wisconsin (Dave Kettering/AP) Meteorologist Brian Pierce with the National Weather Services Quad Cities office in Davenport, Iowa, said flooding on the Mississippi could get worse in the weeks to come as more snow melts in Minnesota and Wisconsin. He said of the flooding on the Mississippi: What were having now is the dress rehearsal for the main event thats going to happen in early April. Rising waters along the Pecatonica and Rock rivers flooded some homes in the northern Illinois cities of Freeport, Rockford and Machesney Park. The National Weather Service said record crests were possible along the rivers, with water levels forecast to continue to rise over the next several days and remain above flood stage through most of the weekend. Run out of money in your wallet and you don't have your ATM card with you? You can still withdraw money. State Bank of India has introduced a new service using which customers will be able to withdraw cash from ATMs without physically carrying a debit or credit card. SBI, India's largest bank on Friday launched the YONO Cash, facilitating cardless withdrawal of cash at over 16,500 SBI ATMs across the country. BCCL Launching the Yono Cash service in Mumbai on Friday, SBI chairman Rajnish Kumar said the facility would eventually be extended to all 60,000 ATMs of the bank. This is how YONO Cash works SBI customers should have the YONO app installed on their smartphones from where the cash withdrawal can be initiated. To withdraw cash from SBI ATMs or YONO Cash Points, the user will have to set a 6-digit YONO PIN. Once the customer makes a cash withdrawal request a 6-digit code will be sent to the user's phone via SMS, which will then have to be entered into a YONO Cash Point. The code is valid only for 30 minutes and the customer should withdraw money from any SBI ATM within this time. Indian national hailing from Hyderabad, Farhaj Hasan went to the Christchurch mosque in New Zealand to offer prayers on Friday when a gunman stormed in spraying bullets at unarmed worshippers killing 49 people and injuring several others. Since the dastardly attack took place, his family is worried as they are unable to trace his whereabouts. His father, Mohammed Sayeeduddin, made a heartfelt appeal to the government of India to find his son. Read more Pakistan Secretively Grabs Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara Land As India Slams Move In Crucial Meet At a time when tensions across the border between India and Pakistan are rife, Pakistan has "surreptitiously usurped" lands belonging to the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in the name of developing a corridor. The corridor was developed for the convenience of pilgrims and Indian devotees who can now visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistans Kartarpur: the final resting place of Sikh faiths founder Guru Nanak Dev. Read more Pakistani Senator Mushahid Hussain Hails Pulwama Terror Attack, Calls It 'Nation's Finest Hour' After Nuclear Tests Mushahid Hussain Sayed, a senator from Pakistan Muslim League said the Pulwama terror attack was the country's finest hour since Islamabad conducted the nuclear tests. Hussain who was speaking as the Chairman of Pakistan-China Institute and Senate Foreign Affairs Committee at a meeting of Think Tanks conducted by the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) on March 14. Read more In A First, SBI Customers Can Now Withdraw Money From ATMs Without A Debit Card State Bank of India has introduced a new service using which customers will be able to withdraw cash from ATMs without physically carrying a debit or credit card. SBI, India's largest bank on Friday launched the YONO Cash, facilitating cardless withdrawal of cash at over 16,500 SBI ATMs across the country. Read more Air India Flights To Birmingham And Madrid Affected Due To Pakistan Airspace Closure Due to the closure, many flights from India have to be suspended until alternative routes are discovered. Air India in the UK confirmed on Friday that it would suspend all flights to and from Birmingham Airport from Saturday due to "extraordinary circumstances" involving the closure of Pakistan's airspace. Read more At a time when tensions across the border between India and Pakistan are rife, Pakistan has "surreptitiously usurped" lands belonging to the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in the name of developing a corridor. The corridor was developed for the convenience of pilgrims and Indian devotees who can now visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistans Kartarpur: the final resting place of Sikh faiths founder Guru Nanak Dev. PTI reported that Pakistan has objected to most of the Indian proposals for the project which exposed its double-speak approach. Officials from the Indian delegation attended the first India- Pakistan meeting on Thursday to finalise the procedure for the proposed corridor. The meeting comes only a month after Pakistan-backed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed attacked a CRPF convoy in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir in which more than 40 soldiers were martyred. The Indian delegation strongly protested against the "rampant encroachment" on the lands belonging to the holy Sikh shrine in utter disregard to the sentiments of devotees of Guru Nanak Dev in India. The officials called out Pakistan for resorting to its old reputation of making false promises and tall claims while delivering nothing. The encroached lands were donated to the Kartarpur Sahib by devouts like late Maharaja Ranjeet Singh and others. A strident demand was made by India for restoration of these lands to the holy gurdwara urgently, keeping in view the strong sentiments on the issue within India," the official said. In a statement, the officials who attended the meeting said that India was serious regarding the initiative and was spending Rs 190 crore in executing the long-lasting and comprehensive facilities while Pakistan wanted to restrict the duration of Kartarpur agreement to just two years. "Against the hype created by the Pakistan government and the Pakistan media, its actual offer during the talks turned out to be farcical and mere tokenism. There is a sea of difference between what Pakistan, including Prime Minister Imran Khan, had announced, and in what they offered at Attari meeting. Clearly, Pakistan is not interested in providing Indian pilgrims easy access to Kartarpur Sahib," the official said. The differences that reflected Pakistans double-talk were reflected in the meeting as follows: 1) While India was keen on establishing a grand passenger terminal building where around 5,000 pilgrims are expected to make a visit on daily basis and over 15,000 pilgrims on special occasions like Vaisakhi, Pakistan has limited it to mere 700 pilgrims a day. 2) India wanted daily visits of pilgrims to the Kartarpur corridor while Pakistan has restricted it to visiting days which will be determined by them. 3) Pakistan has even disallowed permit travel of devotees on foot or as individuals, and has insisted on movement of groups of 15 and by vehicle. Photo: AP 4) The Kartarpur corridor was hailed as the fall of the Berlin wall because Indian pilgrims would now not require a visa but an official at the meeting said that despite having assured visa-free passage to Kartarpur Sahib, Pakistan has now brought in, through the back door, the requirement of issuance of special permits by them to pilgrims, that also at a fee, which is "outrageous and defeats" the very purpose of the corridor. 5) It has even restricted the corridor facility to just Indian passport holders, ignoring the large number of overseas citizens of India and card holder devotees. Pakistan is pretending to be blind to the fact that Guru Nanak Dev holds universal appeal, including the large Indian diaspora the official added. Kartarpur Sahib is an important place for Indian devotees where Guru Nanak Dev is believed to have spent the last 18 years of his life. It is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the river Ravi, about four kilometres from the international border. The Lok Sabha elections are just around the bend, with polling in Phase 1 beginning April 11. If you haven't already registered to vote, this is your last chance to get cracking on the procedure. So here's what you have to do to register yourself to vote in this election. Requirements for registering to vote in India Before you even apply to be put on the electoral roll, you need to make sure you qualify. You have to be an Indian citizen of course, but you probably knew that. You also need to have turned 18 before January 1 this year. Thirdly, you also need to be a resident of the constituency where you're registering, and not disqualified for any other reason (like being found guilty of a crime). What you need to register to vote When registering to vote, there are a few things you need to keep handy. To register online, you'll need to have digital scans of a passport-sized photo, age proof like a birth certificate or PAN card, as well as proof of address. Deadlines for registering to vote There's also a deadline to register yourself on the electoral roll, which is three weeks before the polling dates as follows: Phase 1 - 11th Apr Phase 2 - 18th April Phase 3 - 23rd April Phase 4 - 29th April Phase 5 - 6th May Phase 6 - 12th May Phase 7 - 19th May For those of you in Phase based on your constituency, that means you have exactly a week left. That might already be too late to complete the process, but that shouldn't stop you from trying if you're not yet registered. How to register online for Voter ID The first you need to do to apply online is visit the website of the National Voter's Service Portal here. Once it's open, click on the option reading "Apply online for registration of new voter/due to shifting from AC". This will pop up a digital version of the Form 6 application in a new tab. For those of you registering from residences outside India, instead click on the Apply online for registration of overseas voter"" option. This will open up Form 6A for you. Also Read: Election Commission's Online Code Of Conduct: What Political Parties Can't Say On Social Media Both forms open up in Hindi, so select your language of choice from the top right as needed. Unfortunately, you're only other choices are English and Malayalam. Wait for it... Sadly, just filling up the form isn't enough to be registered. After your submission, you'll need to wait a week while the relevant Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) verifies your identity and any conflicting registrations you might have made. After that, your name will be included in the electoral roll and you'll receive an SMS notification on the phone number you provided in the form. How will I know status of my voter ID application? To check the status of your application after filing, simply go to the tracking page here and input your reference ID. If it shows that your paperwork has been processed you should already be on the electoral roll. You can then visit the electoral search portal and plug in your details to find your entry. If you can find your name and ID there, and the details are all correct, you're all set to vote. How to fix mistake in your registered Voter ID On the chance some of your details in the electoral roll are wrong, the same website allows you to make a change. A third option there reads "Correction of entries in electoral roll", which leads you to Form 8. Here you need to specifically mark which details needs to be corrected, and then provide the correct entries to be input. Unfortunately there's no real way to say how long this could take. How to register for voter ID offline? If you're not comfortable doing all of this online, or the process is too confusing, you can instead register the old-fashioned way. Just download two copies of Form 6 (or Form 8 as required) from the official link here and print them out. Alternatively, these are also available with your Electoral Registration Officer or Assistant ERO in your constituency, as well as the Booth Level Officer at your local polling station. These forms are free, so don't let anyone charge you for them. Once you've filled them out and attached hard copies of your details as required (see above), submit the documents to your ERO, Assistant ERO or Booth Level Officer. Or, if you really want to avoid human interaction as much as possible, post them to the address of their office addresses. You probably don't have enough time to count on snail mail now though. I'm still confused If you have any other queries, the government has set up a hotline you can reach out to. Just dial 1950 ( add your STD code before the digits), or download the 'Voter Helpline' app on Google Play. And lastly, don't worry if it seems those website links aren't loading. There's understandably a lot of traffic moving through them these days, so just hit refresh until your page loads. Good luck! Sometimes it happens that your kid, who was so advanced in school, begins to flag in their studies as they progress. Apparently, that's fairly common phenomenon, and most often happens with Mathematics. And you, parents and teachers, are to blame. A new report from the University of Cambridge studied the experiences of 2,700 primary and secondary students in the UK and Italy and they had some pretty telling results. They found that primary and secondary school girls had higher levels of anxiety, as well as anxiety specifically towards math, than boys. Apparently, some of the reason for this anxiety is thanks to parents and teachers, even if they don't realise it. "Teachers, parents, brothers and sisters and classmates can all play a role in shaping a child's maths anxiety," the study's co-author Ros McLellan said in a press release. "Parents and teachers should also be mindful of how they may unwittingly contribute to a child's maths anxiety. Tackling their own anxieties and belief systems in maths might be the first step to helping their children or students." Previous research has tackled this topic before in the early 2000s, and proven that math anxiety is indeed real. Medical professionals define it as "a feeling of tension and anxiety that interferes with the manipulation of numbers and the solving of mathematical problems in ordinary life and academic situations." In this case, parents and teachers put too much stress on the subject being "serious", and so kids are more afraid of making a mistake, or not being able to understand a topic. Most of the students the researchers spoke to for this study said they began to get anxious as the math they were studying became more complex. Others said they struggled when more than one teacher was teaching them, and their difference in styles clashed. "Importantly-and surprisingly-this new research suggests that the majority of students experiencing maths anxiety have normal to high maths ability," Josh Hillman, Director of Education at the Nuffield Foundation, said in a press release. Basically, the kids were panicking when they didn't need to. And that shows in the results the report uncovered. Many of the students described incidents in class where they knew the answers, but panicked when called on to answer a question. "Once, I think it was the first day and he picked on me, and I just kind of burst into tears because everybody was staring at me and I didn't know the answer," one kid about 10 years old said. "Well I probably knew it but I hadn't thought it through." "I felt very unwell and I was really scared and because my table's in the corner, I kind of just like tried to not be in the lesson," another said. On 15 March, a gunman opened fire in two mosques in New Zealand's Christchurch, taking the lives of 49 innocent people. In the midst of the dastardly attack, an unidentified man helped avoid a much bigger tragedy by confronting the attacker. We were in a small mosque - measuring about a hundred square metres - and when you have a gunman coming in and opening fire in such circumstances, your heart beats faster and you cant feel anything," an NDTV report quoted the Indian-origin survivor, Faisal Sayed, as saying as he recounted the horror that unfolded during the shooting. Reuters/NDTV In the interview, Faisal Sayed, who has been living in New Zealand for more than 10 years, said that he and his friend witnessed a "gentleman creep up behind" the gunman and held him until he dropped his gun. This attack took place at the place of worship in the suburb of Linwood. A New Zealand Herald report states that the unnamed hero pounced on the gunman and snatched his gun. He even chased the fleeing gunman who ultimately fled in a car waiting outside the mosque. "If that hadn't happened, many more would have died and I wouldn't be here now. Hats off to that man; I will definitely try and look him up," he added. The attack killed one of his friends and another one has been hospitalized with serious injuries. An armed police officer stands guard in a perimeter outside Linwood mosque/Reuters But Sayed, this one incident is not enough to change his mind about New Zealand as a country, a place that's been his home for a decade. "I don't see my loved ones, my family or even my community facing any challenges. I will never be the one to pass judgement based on a single incident," said Sayed who coincidentally was also part of the 2008 terror attack at the Taj hotel in Mumbai. The mosques targeted in Friday's attack, the worst mass shooting in the country's history, were the Masjid Al Noor in central Christchurch and another place of worship in the suburb of Linwood Seven people were killed at the Linwood Islamic Centre and 42 were murdered at the Masjid Al Noor, also in Christchurch. We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form Ahmed Iqbal Jehangir of Hyderabad was critically injured in the horrific massacre at the Al Noor Mosque in New Zealand's Christchurch city March 15. Nine Indians are among the injured or missing. (IANS photo) Insurance fraud seems like it might be an easy thing to do. Insurance companies are often so huge, one wonders how they might not even notic... Shares in Swedens H&M, the worlds second-biggest fashion retailer, fell after quarterly sales growth matched forecasts but failed to allay longer-term market concerns over margins and inventory. H&M has seen profits shrink and inventories bank up in recent years as footfall slowed at its core-brand stores in the face of a shift online and mounting competition, while the firm has struggled to react quickly enough to demand swings. It is investing heavily in logistics, digital technology, online offering, and store concepts, and is reviewing its mix of stores and brands. Local-currency sales rose for a third straight quarter in the December-February period, climbing 4% from a year earlier. H&M, whose main rival is market leader Zara-owner Inditex, said net sales were up 10% to 51 billion crowns (4.8bn), compared with expectations for an 8% rise. We think H&M is making progress on its recovery. However some expectations were for a stronger performance in February, said RBC analyst Richard Chamberlain, who recently raised his rating on the stock to sector perform. Mr Chamberlain estimated there was a very small sales increase in stores open a year or more. H&M, due to publish its full first-quarter earnings report on March 29, did not comment on the figures. The companys investments to boost sales have taken their toll on profitability, and many analysts are unconvinced the company is yet back on track. H&Ms commercial initiative of incentivising customers to switch to its online offering given free deliveries and returns should be inherently growth-accretive, but at the same time heavily margin-dilutive, said Jefferies analysts with a hold rating on the stock. Given this backdrop, while H&Ms sales trends look more supportive, they need to be weighed against the full earnings picture. We expect Q1 results on March 29 to confirm ongoing, heavy margin declines, they said in a note. Rival Inditex has outperformed competitors for years but investors have started to fret about slowing sales growth at the group. H&M said in January it saw less need in the first quarter than a year earlier to cut prices to shift unsold clothes. We expect inventories to remain high but for the composition to be improving gradually, with a higher amount of fresh garments in the mix, RBCs Mr Chamberlain said on the first quarter. H&Ms shares trade at 19.5 times full-year earnings, against 22.5 times earnings for Inditex. The arrival of a woman at the mosque bearing flowers was a beautiful gesture, one that meant a lot to the Muslim community, a senior member of the mosque said. Fazel Ryklief, of the Islamic Foundation of Ireland (IFI) mosque in Dublins south inner city, said it was one of a number of gestures from the non-Muslim community. Phone calls and emails came in shortly after news emerged of the terror attacks in Christchurch, New Zealand, with children believed to be among the dead. Weve had phone calls and emails from people expressing sympathy, Mr Ryklief said. I had an old man on the phone saying he would like to come to the mosque and say prayers. A lady came and left a bunch of flowers, a non-Muslim woman, who lives locally. She had tears in her eyes handing them to me and we chatted for 10 minutes. He said a note she wrote with the flowers said: Salaam [Peace be upon you], we stand together with you, Insha Allah [God willing]. It was a beautiful gesture, they were all very nice gestures. They made me feel a lot better. It means a lot to me and to our community. Sometimes, theres a feeling in the community that the whole world is against us, but its not like that there are many great people outside our religion. The IFI, better known as the South Circular Road mosque, is one of the busiest in the country and is located along a busy artery. Mr Ryklief said that when he first learned of the terror attacks in Christchurch, he had an instinctive reaction: I felt a strange sensation approaching anxiety and worry. I phoned a garda and asked was it possible to come a little earlier before prayer to meet people and maybe to ask Kevin Street Garda Station to send a patrol car to pass us, to make a presence felt. I rang because of the way I felt. He explained that the community gardai held clinics at the mosque every month and that the mosque had good relationships with them. Im not sure why I reacted that way, but I had a feeling that something was not quite right. Im not saying something like that is going to happen here. I dont feel safe. Its very difficult to describe, but the anxiety is still there, like a knot in my tummy. I have a feeling that something is not quite right, that the situation is just getting worse. With the mosque just feet in from the footpath, he said they often felt exposed to a possible attack. What if someone was to throw a bomb in [during prayers] through the windows? People are all massed in here, most would die. What if some crazy person or right-wing fanatic did this? We are so accessible here, so vulnerable. I fear for my children. Whats the future in this world, not just for Muslims, but all people. Shaykh Dr Umar Al-Qadri, head imam at the Islamic Centre of Ireland in Blanchardstown, west Dublin, said he, too, contacted gardai after the attack was reported. I spoke to the head of the inter-racial unit and asked him could we have a garda presence at our mosque for prayer, just to give our community a sense of comfort. The Garda Press Office told the Irish Examiner that the force had built up a productive and positive relationship with the Muslim community over many years. It said: As part of this and to provide support following the terrible events in New Zealand, community gardai will be attending Friday prayer in their local mosque and making themselves available to those communities. Dr Al-Qadri said that even in countries like New Zealand, in which the vast majority of the Muslim population had a positive experience, such right-wing atrocities could occur. It shows you what can happen in the most stable of countries and shows you that law enforcement and social media must clamp down on any extremist material, whether it against Muslims, Jews or the LGBT community or whatever. He said there had been an increase in right-wing attacks across Europe, with mosques in Britain, Belgium, Netherlands and France being targeted, but not getting much media publicity. Hate speech online has increased and its very worrying and Ive noticed more accounts in Ireland promoting it. Having seen what has happened in New Zealand, I do not think any country, including Ireland, is immune to radicalism and extremism. We need to increase our efforts. We need to reach out to each other and promote understanding. He called for on the Government to develop an extremism policy, one that focused not on one form, such as Islamic extremism, but included right-wing extremism. Dr Paul Gill, associate professor at University College Londons Security & Crime Science Department, agreed and said Ireland needed a joined up approach to combat all forms of extremism. The Irish academic, who has authored a book based on extensive research on lone wolf terrorists, said such a policy needed preventative measures as well as a centralised intelligence function to detect, manage and mitigate the risks posed by all forms of violent extremism. He said that the Global Terrorism Database, compiled at the University of Maryland, showed how rare terrorism was in New Zealand, with 20 attacks in more than 30 years, with one fatality. For New Zealand, this attack looks like a complete outlier, Dr Gill said. Looking beyond New Zealands borders, it is the latest in a series of mass atrocity attacks drawing from the same pool of grievances against immigrant communities. This is a large-scale movement of people enabling one another and seeking to inspire similar attacks elsewhere. Ireland should not think itself immune. Long-standing Cork TD Billy Kelleher has lost out by just eight votes in his bid to be selected as Fianna Fail's Ireland South candidate in the imminent European elections today. However, party sources have suggested he could be added to the election ticket when senior officials meet next week due to the need to ensure a south west presence in the sprawling and competitive constituency. At the Ireland South party selection convention in Clonmel, Tipperary on Saturday, Mr Kelleher lost out to Wexford councillor Malcolm Byrne by just eight votes in a major and widely unpredicted shock. Mr Kelleher, who is the party's enterprise spokesperson, was rumoured to have been at odds with Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin and party headquarters officials over his decision to seek the MEP candidate selection, a claim publicly denied by all involved. This was because any decision by a sitting TD to seek a European parliament seat would lessen Mr Martin's Dail hand by removing a safe seat and could further undermine the already flimsy confidence and supply pact with Fine Gael. However, despite the stand-off, Mr Kelleher was still expected to win the selection convention in Clonmel, Tipperary, on Saturday afternoon - paving the way for what was predicted to be a likely safe run to Brussels on May 24. Wexford councillor Malcolm Byrne will now contest the Ireland South MEP constituency for Fianna Fail, seeking to hold onto the party seat to be vacated by retiring politician Brian Crowley. However, during his selection acceptance speech, Mr Byrne told party members he was open to a second candidate being added to the ticket. Party sources have confirmed Fianna Fail's national selection group will meet next week to decide on the matter and noted the fact Ireland South is a sprawling constituency, with Mr Byrne's location in Wexford meaning a south west candidate may also be needed. While rumours have spread on Saturday that Cork-based councillor Seamus McGrath could be added to the ticket, it is understood he will not be considered and has made it clear he does not wish to be. In addition to Mr Kelleher, Mr Byrne faced competition from retiring MEP Brian Crowley's substitute, Waterford's Kieran Hartley; Offaly councillor Eddie Fitzpatrick; and Cork's Jason Fitzgerald. Carlow-Kilkenny TD John McGuinness was also officially among the candidates after being nominated by a local branch, despite saying he did not intend to run. Former Cork mayor Seamus McGrath - the brother of party finance spokesperson Michael McGrath - and senator Ned O'Sullivan had also pulled out in recent days. Fianna Fail is likely to be under pressure to add a south west candidate to the ticket in order to prevent their traditional vote being split. US president Donald Trump intervened to help safeguard hundreds of jobs in the Limerick region after the impact of sanctions against Russia threatened to damage the Aughinish Alumina plant. The US Treasury announced in December that it would lift sanctions that had been imposed on the plants Russian parent company Rusal. Mr Trump confirmed in the White House this week that he had a role in this. Speaking in the Oval Office, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he wanted to thank him for his help, saying that hundreds of jobs were threatened as a result of the Russian sanctions. And with the help of the administration, we were able to save those jobs. Mr Trump replied: Thats right. They [the press] dont know about that. Mr Varadkars spokesman confirmed that the threat of the sanctions on the plant was first raised at last years Washington DC meeting with Mr Trump. Mr Varadkar had said a lot of jobs depended on it, that the plant was important for EU aluminium producers and for Irish exports. Mr Trump asked his officials to then look into the issue. US authorities then designed a solution so that Aughinish did not fall under the sanctions regime. A restructuring deal was then agreed to end Russian oligarch and billionaire Oleg Deirpaskas control of Rusal. In January, the US Senate then voted to support the White House efforts to lift the sanctions. Around 700 workers and contractors are employed at the Aughinish Alumina plant near Askeaton, making it one of Limericks biggest employers. Rusal supplies 6% of the worlds aluminium and operates mines, and refineries in locations including Ireland Jamaica, and Russia. Irish ambassador to the US Daniel Mulhall had warned of the unintended consequences of the sanctions on communities such as Aughinish, with 700 direct jobs at stake and another 1,000 who depend indirectly on it. Ireland needs a comprehensive programme, including prevention and intelligence measures, to combat all forms of extremism, a leading security expert says. The call from Paul Gill, associate professor of crime and security at University College London, came as community gardai yesterday visited mosques to provide reassurance following concerns from within the Muslim community. Gestures of sympathy over the terror attacks in New Zealand included people bringing flowers to mosques, Christians standing vigil outside prayers in Kerry, the Lord Mayor of Cork opening a book of condolences, the divisional officer of Dublin West addressing worshippers in a local mosque, and the Catholic Archbishop of Dublin directing remembrance prayers at all Masses on St Patricks Day. Dr Gill said the shootings at two mosques in Christchurch, so far claiming 49 lives, are the latest in a series of mass atrocity attacks drawing from the same pool of grievances against immigrant communities. The Irish academic, who has conducted extensive research on lone wolf terrorists, said this was a large-scale movement of people who were trying to inspire one another to conduct similar attacks. He said: Ireland should not think itself immune. Dr Gill said the fact that the attack was live-streamed by the attacker and watched in real time is very concerning and gave would-be terrorists a guaranteed audience. He said the fact that these videos are proliferating on social media and some mainstream news sites should be of concern for us all and he called for greater regulation of some platforms. Beyond that, the same platforms have provided a mouthpiece for many to consistently promote bigoted views and incite violence like we saw in Christchurch, he said. He said the Global Terrorism Database, compiled by the University of Maryland, shows how rare terrorism was in New Zealand, with 20 attacks in more than 30 years, with one fatality. For New Zealand, this attack looks like a complete outlier, he said. Looking beyond New Zealands borders, it is the latest in a series of mass atrocity attacks drawing from the same pool of grievances against immigrant communities. This is a large-scale movement of people enabling one another, and seeking to inspire similar attacks elsewhere. Ireland should not think itself immune. He said combating right-wing extremism is becoming a growing priority and Ireland needs a joined-up approach to combat all forms of extremism. This includes preventative measures and a centralised intelligence function to detect, manage and mitigate the risks posed by all forms of violent extremism, Dr Gill said. More than 15,000 Irish schoolchildren marched out of classrooms yesterday to join a global mass movement of climate change demonstrations. Secondary school students teamed up at more than 30 locations nationwide to send a message to lawmakers that enough is enough: Its time for change. The movement was sparked by Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg, who called on teenagers to send a message on climate change. By mid-morning, hundreds of thousands of young people had walked out of classes to join the movement, with rallies staged in more than 100 countries. In Cork, the protest grew so large that gardai told the organisers to ask the crowd to disperse before speeches could even take place. Traffic was diverted away from the city centre as the students marched up St Patricks St, along the Grand Parade and down South Mall. Gardai estimate the crowd size at 4,000-5,000, the vast majority of whom were secondary school students. Students protest outside Corks City Hall. Picture: Provision Many of these were supported by their parents and teachers. They gathered at Emmett Place, outside the Cork Opera House, and brought their message to Cork City Hall, with the Lord Mayor of Cork, Mick Finn, committing to bring their demands to the attention of the Government. This is just the beginning. I believe that we can make a difference. They have to start listening to us, Cork Educate Together student Samhain Mohally-Castellano told the crowd, barely audible above the cheering, drumming, and singing of the thousands gathered on Anglesea St. Homemade signs made the message clear that it is time for action on climate change. Slogans such as The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it showed that these students have had enough. Others, such as The seas are rising and so are we, made it clear that the march was not just an excuse to skip school. There is no planet B, primary school children in Dingle warned as an estimated 200 primary and secondary students marched and assembled at the much-loved Funghi the Dolphin statue on the quay. Finn Slattery-Dunk, 12, of Cill Mhic Domhnaigh NS in Ventry, was one of the main organisers in the most westerly town in Ireland. He distributed fliers around Dingle some weeks ago and said yesterday he was delighted with the reaction. In Tralee, 200 secondary school students were outside county buildings in Aras an Chontae at Rathass for a five-hour vigil. Several of those at the event are in Leaving Cert, including the three event organisers, Niamh OShea, Ciara Boyd, and Barry Sugrue. We just want to show how important this is to us. We picked school time because whats the point in going to school for a future that may not be there? asked Barry. As part of the preparation, suggestions from 250 students were gathered and 10 main points compiled and emailed to all of Kerrys 33 councillors. The Tralee students were visited by Green Party leader Eamon Ryan. In Dublin, students gathered on St Stephens Green, chanting: What do we want? Change! When do we want it? Now! Gardai estimated that the crowd in Dublin numbered around 10,000 people. They made their way to the gates of Dail Eireann where they carried handmade banners and posters, some of which read Leo try harder and Easy to ignore till the Earth is no more. The Government has come in for significant criticism regarding its lack of action on climate change. The country is on course to miss several major emissions targets and could face hefty fines for doing so. Environment Minister Richard Bruton was at the Dublin rally. He said it is great to see the passion and enthusiasm of young people on climate change. I am developing an all-of-Government climate plan to make Ireland a leader, tweeted Mr Bruton. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar tweeted from Washington DC about the protests, saying: School and student protests are a message to all of us in positions of power and influence that we need to do more on climate action. We will. The demonstrations were organised by a loose coalition of pupils in schools across the country, building on the momentum that has grown since last year. In Cork, a small group of students have been protesting outside the City Hall on Fridays for the last 10 weeks. Alongside the major rallies in Cork and Dublin, huge crowds turned out to show their support in Waterford, Galway and Limerick, and smaller protests took place in dozens of towns throughout Ireland. The students called for the climate crisis to be declared a national emergency and for Ireland to use 100% renewable electricity by 2030. Latest: Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has denied that he was aware that MMA fighter Conor McGregor would march in the Chicago St Patrick's day parade, writes Juno McEnroe in Chicago. The fighter appeared at the top of the city's parade and marched close to Mr Varadkar during the walk through the streets. Mr McGregor refused to answer media questions about his arrest in Miami, Florida, last week, but did say I love Ireland. It is understood that Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel invited Mr McGregor. The mayor also marched alongside the two Irish men. Speaking to reporters later on Chicago's river, which was traditionally dyed green for St Patrick's Day festivities, Mr Varadkar said: No, no I wasnt actually, I imagine the parade organisers invited him, but thats it really." Taoiseach Leo Varadkar with Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring during the Tourism Ireland Green Boat Trip in Chicago. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA He also said that the two did not talk during or after the parade march in the city. Asked was it appropriate for the fighter, who has had numerous court appearances, to be in the parade to represent Ireland, Mr Varadkar responded: I think that is up to the organisers of the parade to decide who they want to march in the parade. "I dont think he was representing the country, thats kind of what I was doing and Mr [Michael] Ring. Earlier (5:47pm): Leo Varadkar marches alongside Conor McGregor at Chicago St Patricks Day parade Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and MMA fighter Conor McGregor have marched in the Chicago St Patricks Day parade, writes Juno McEnroe in Chicago. On the second leg of his US visit, Mr Varadkar was one of the top guests for the city march. Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel also was among those in the front. Mr McGregor was arrested in Miami last week after being charged by police for allegedly slapping a phone out of the hands of a fan and stamping on it repeatedly after the man attempted to take a picture of the MMA star. He then picked up the phone and walked away with it, police said. Mr McGregor refused to answer media questions at the parade about his arrest, and would only say I love Ireland. A government source said it was known Mr McGregor was in Chicago and the fighter had even been expected to attend the Irish Fellowship dinner on Friday night in the city, which Mr Varadkar also attended. However, Mr Varadkar, speaking to the Irish Examiner, denied that he was aware the fighter was in Chicago or that he would attend the city parade. The Irish delegation organising Mr Varadkars itinerary in the US also said they were not aware the fighter would be in the parade. Controversial works which have resulted in the near total demolition of the historic folly near a burial plot at the site the former Bessborough Mother and Baby Home have stopped. The Sisters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary confirmed that work on the Bessborough Folly has ceased. We will now deal directly with Cork City Council on all related matters, said a statement. Cork City Council has visited the site and is carrying out an investigation into whether work done at the site warrants an enforcement action. The Irish Examiner first revealed last week that work had been undertaken on the structure after a sign appeared on a gate leading into the site stating the folly presents a major health and safety hazard due to crumbling mortar and loose stones and that repair work was being carried out. However, it subsequently emerged over last weekend that almost half of the structure had been demolished. The Order said that before it decided to carry out the work, it sought professional advice and established that the building is not on the Record of Monuments and Places as maintained under the statute by the Archaeological Survey of Ireland and the Commissioners of Public Works. It also said it notified the Mother and Baby Homes Commission. The Irish Examiner asked what company the Order sought professional advice from but it declined to answer the query. Christopher Kirwan of the Bessborough Commemoration Committee said the group was saddened at what has happened, particularly as it is in the location where a commemoration to remember mothers and children is held every year. We dont know the exact number of children that died at the institution but we do know it runs into hundreds, said Mr Kirwan. These were children that were treated as second-class citizens. As committee members of the annual Bessborough commemoration, we visited the folly at Bessborough and were very saddened by what we saw. The folly had been dismantled to door height and the heavy machinery had taken its toll on the ground. This act makes us believe that the Order has no understanding of the feelings of the people who come to our gathering each year. There was a 26% increase in the number of new asylum seekers in Ireland last year, despite a general decline across the EU in foreign nationals applying for refugee status. New EU figures show a total of 3,655 individuals were first-time asylum applicants in the Republic of Ireland in 2018 an annual increase of 745 over the previous year, and the highest level since 2008. The upward trend here was not mirrored across the EU, where the overall number of first-time applicants fell by 11%. A total of 580,800 individuals applied for refugee status in the 28 EU member states last year 73,800 fewer than in 2017. Last years figure is also less than half the number recorded at the peak in 2015 when more than 1.25m first-time asylum applicants were registered across the EU. The number of asylum applicants in 2018 is comparable with the level recorded in 2014 before the peaks of 2015 and 2016, a Eurostat spokesperson said. Despite the sharp increase in asylum seekers here last year, the numbers arriving in Ireland still represent just 0.6% of all new cases in the EU in 2018. It ranks Ireland in 12th place in absolute numbers of asylum seekers arriving in the EU last year. The number of new asylum seekers in the Republic represented 756 per million population compared to the EU average of 1,133 which places Ireland in 14th position in per capita terms. The latest figures show Albania replaced Syria as the main country of origin of new asylum seekers in Ireland last year. A total of 460 Albanian nationals sought refugee status in the Republic in 2018, representing 13% of all applicants just ahead of 450 from Georgia (12%) and 330 from Syria (9%). The increase in numbers of asylum seekers has placed pressure on accommodation in direct provision centres. The latest figures from the Reception and Integration Agency show 5,928 were living in direct provision last October the highest level since December 2009. The Irish Refugee Council has expressed concern about the capacity of the system to cope with an increasing number of asylum applicants. Its pretty plain and clear that there are not enough spaces to cater for people arriving in Ireland and seeking asylum said Nick Henderson, IRC chief executive. The authorities are having to rely on emergency accommodation which is wholly unsuitable. Paddys of all ages donned the patron saints costume and marched through Cork city today to celebrate the restoration of the citys landmark St Patricks Bridge. The army of Paddys was joined by Pats, Patricias, and even a few Patryks as the city formally marked the end of the extensive refurb of the historic 19th century heritage structure which was officially opened 158-years ago. Grandfather, Patrick Buckley, his son Patrick and grandson, seven week old baby Patrick, were joined by Paddy Linham, 12, the grandson of former Lord Mayor of Cork, Brian Sloane, Special Olympics silver medallist, Pat Dorgan and Patrick Joseph Lynch who was celebrating his 80th birthday at the Metropole Hotel beforehand. They were among the near 200 people who responded to a public call-out by Cork City Council for people named Patrick or Patricia - in any language - to get involved. The first 100 gathered at the Metropole Hotel early to collect their free St Patrick costume before they marched to the bridge, led by the Rebel Brass. A commemorative plaque was unveiled later to mark the end of restoration. Lord Mayor Cllr Mick Finn used the trowel used to lay the bridges original foundation stone - an artefact normally held in the Cork Public Museum in Fitzgeralds Park - to lay the last piece of stonework today. Picture: Clare Keogh. Provincial Grand Master of the Munster Freemasons, Leslie Deane, also brought the original spirit level used in the bridges construction and which is normally held in their Lodge on Tuckey St. Bishops John Buckley and Paul Colton performed a joint blessing of the bridge. The 1.2m bridge revamp was funded by Transport Infrastructure Ireland, in conjunction with Cork City Council. Cumnor Construction cleaned, repointed and repaired the stonework and drafted in specialist repair and restoration experts to restore to its former glory the bridges original lamp columns. The bridges footpaths have been widener, its carriageway resurfaced and new road markings put in place. Existing traffic lights, elevation and architectural lighting and signage were also upgraded. Irish Water had to clear an average of 16 blockages in the countrys sewage network each day last year as a result of inappropriate items being flushed down toilets. The company is appealing to householders to be more careful about putting certain toiletries and sanitary items in bins after use after it revealed more than 6,000 blockages in sewers had to be cleared last year. It is estimated the annual bill for clearing such material from the sewage network is around 7m. The appeal was made after staff from Wicklow County Council working on behalf of Irish Water had to clear three large blockages at the Bollarney wastewater pumping station in Wicklow within the one day last weekend. Irish Water spokeswoman, Annabel Fitzgerald said an 8ft blockage resulted from items such as wet wipes, cotton bud sticks, nappies, and cotton wool pads being flushed down a toilet. Flushing these items can have a negative impact on internal plumbing in homes and businesses as well as the wastewater network and the marine environment, she said The utility said the sewage network is designed to carry the three Ps pee, poo, and paper to wastewater treatment plants. The size and scale of the impact of flushing the wrong items down the toilet is incredible, Ms Fitzgerald said. While Irish Water is investing millions in building new wastewater treatment plants, upgrading old plants and laying new sewerages, the utility said it is still really important that people recognise the impact of what they flush down the toilet so the sewage network can function efficiently and effectively. Placing a bin in the bathroom and disposing of sanitary items safely and appropriately has a hugely positive impact on the network and the environment, Ms Fitzgerald said. A report by Irish Water said material arriving in the countrys largest wastewater treatment plant in Ringsend at the time of the incident was not normal sewage but contained solids linked to construction activity. The company expressed concern that such material is adding to ongoing problems at the overloaded facility which caters for sewage from 40% of the national population. Irish Water has calculated the Ringsend plant removes 60 tonnes of wet wipes and other sanitary items from the system each month. On a positive note, Dublin City Council has largely eliminated the problem of fatbergs a blockage formed by a combination of fats, oil and grease coagulating with non-biodegradable items like wet sipes in the citys sewer network. According to the council, more than 1,000 blockages caused predominantly by restaurants pouring grease and oil down drains were reported each year before an inspection programme was established in 2008. On average, 7,000 inspections are now carried out annually on more than 2,300 food service outlets in the city to ensure compliance with regulations. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has condemned the attacks in New Zealand and called the killings an act of cowardice, saying Muslims should not be afraid, writes Juno McEnroe in Chicago. At least 49 people have been killed and 48 injured in mass shootings at two mosques full of worshippers attending Friday prayers in an attack broadcast in horrifying live video by an immigrant-hating white nationalist wielding at least two rifles. Taoiseach says US President Donald Trump could visit Ireland as early as June this year when in Europe for D-Day commemorations, writes Juno McEnroe in Chicago. Speaking in Chicago, Mr Varadkar also said he was not surprised about the president's views on Brexit this week when in the White House in Washington DC but that he hoped the US could do a trade deal with the EU. When asked about Mr Trump's comment that he will visit Ireland this year, Mr Varadkar said the visit could go ahead in either June or December. "He is going to travel to Europe both for the D-Day and for the NATO anniversary so it is possible that he will make the trip to Ireland before or after one of those. It's still early days yet." Asked could the visit then take place as early as June, when the 75th anniversary of D-Day takes place in France, Mr Varadkar said: "It is possible but there is no firm date discussed or agreed. He does intend to travel to Europe at least twice before now and the end of the year. It being added on to one of those visit would be the likeliest thing." Yesterday Prime Minister Leo Varadkar @campaignforleo visited the @WhiteHouse to honor #StPatricksDay. Thank you for joining us in celebrating the many wonderful traditions of Ireland! pic.twitter.com/2guft4oJwM Melania Trump 45 Archived (@FLOTUS45) March 15, 2019 Mr Trump was critical of the EU and the Brexit negotiations in the White House this week. Asked about this, Mr Varadkar said he hoped the US president would negotiate a trade deal with the EU. Mr Varadkar also discussed his speech about growing up as a gay man, which he made in the Washington DC residence of vice president Mike Pence and which drew international attention this week. He said the two men did not discuss it but both obviously had different views. "We didn't really discuss the speech but we had a good chat afterwards on different issues and I had the chance to meet him again in the White House. "I met his brother who was recently elected to congress and his sister too. "They are very nice people and certainly have made me feel welcome when I have been in DC. Obviously we have very different views on social policy but I think the best way to manage these things is to engage with people rather than boycotting them and that's what I intend to do," said Mr Varadkar. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said he believes the DUP do not want Britain to crash out of the EU, writes Juno McEnroe in Washington. Speaking as talks progress try and reach a compromise over the Brexit impasse, Mr Varadkar also confirmed he would meet European Council president Donald Tusk in Dublin on Tuesday. It is likely the two will discuss how and if Britain should get an extension on the March 29 Brexit deadline. Mr Varadkar confirmed he had met DUP leader Arlene Foster in Washington DC this week. DUP figures and British ministers this weekend are attempting to hammer out a deal or compromise so British prime minister Theresa May can get her Brexit deal through Westminster. Speaking in Chicago last night, he told reporters: "I had a chance actually to meet with Arlene foster yesterday in Washington DC so I got to hear her perspective and she heard mine. I certainly have the sense that the DUP would like the UK to leave the European Union with a deal, that they don't want no deal either so at the moment they're in discussions with the British government about how they might approach the next vote but they're discussions that I'm not party to. Mr Varadkar said there were two options for an extension. The first would be to get the a deal on the Withdrawal Agreement and then have a short extension while the second would be a longer period to sort out Brexit, he explained. He reiterated he did not want to see "rolling" deadlines for Brexit and any request for an extension had to be for a "purpose". RP ODonnell left America to make West Cork home. As he marks another Patricks Day here, hes convinced we should leave the parades to the diaspora. I first came to Ireland 10 years ago. I had never met an Irish person before. Like the rest of the Americans with me, I was expecting blushing milkmaids in woollen jumpers, and men who all looked like the Healy-Raes. But then we went to Penneys. Americans grow up thinking that the Irish are all either farmers, farmers wives, Michael Flatley, women in aprons holding a bucket on a windy hill, or leprechauns. They think the Irish all wear tweed and green and flat caps, treat the shamrock as a beloved talk show host, stuff their pockets full of potatoes (they all still remember the Famine like it interrupted their Weetabix this morning) and are either in church or on their way. And why is that? Anybody who actually comes into contact with modern Ireland sees that this is nonsense. My own visions of pale milkmaids vanished on my first trip to Penneys. Self-tan covered an entire wall; it was ransacked. It looked like the women didnt wait to get home, they just ripped the boxes open and smeared their faces with fistfuls of the stuff. Between their leopard print jackets and the mens tracksuits, it looked like the 1980s and the Jersey Shore were going through an unpleasant divorce and flinging stuff out the windows. Few Irish-Americans have ever been to Ireland. Almost none have ever met anyone Irish their Irish blood comes from great-great-grandparents. So, how do they learn about their Irish culture? St Patricks Day of course. St Patricks Day is a holiday for the diaspora; it has been from the beginning and I mean specifically the Irish-American diaspora here. The first St Patricks Day parade occurred in New York, nearly 200 years before the first one in Ireland. It is far bigger in the States than it is anywhere else, even Ireland. New York has celebrated the day ever since 1762 with thousands annually lining the streets to watch its world-famous parade. St Patricks Day is why Irish-Americans have such an old-fashioned view of the Irish. This one holiday is how most Americans learn everything they know about the Irish culture. And on St Patricks Day, they celebrate old-fashioned traditions. They arent celebrating Ireland, theyre celebrating their Irish heritage; and their Irish heritage ends abruptly with their emigration. When they remember Ireland, they remember it the way they last saw it. Or rather, how their great-great-grandparents last saw it. When they celebrate St Patricks Day, theyre celebrating their ancestry, which involves pious people in tweed, eating corned beef and cabbage. So thats what their holiday is. And, in a feedback loop, thats how the next generation learns about the Irish culture. This is a bit of a problem. St Patricks Day is based solely on Irish-American nostalgia. And if you leave anything in the hands of Americans, especially anything nostalgic, its going to get very commercial, very quick. Just look at all the live-action Disney remakes. The holiday isnt based on anything real. If other holidays, like Christmas or Easter, get too commercial, they at least have a bit of substance that believers can point to and pull back the reins on. But St Patricks Day doesnt have that. Its a celebration of a mostly made-up, imaginary identity. The nostalgia that Irish-Americans haveits for times they never had, in a place theyve never been, with people theyve never met. The city of Chicago takes the day very seriously and has turned the river green ever since 1962. And when Irish-Americans do visit Ireland, and this is what theyre expecting, of course the tourism industry doesnt correct them. It doesnt need to. They just send them to Killarney. Its exactly what Irish-American tourists are expecting. Its St Patricks Day every day there. Recently, there have been complaints (mainly from the Irish) that St Patricks Day has not only become commercial; its also full of harmful stereotyping. Theyre not wrong. The holiday gives the impression that the Irish spend their days wandering around in a cirrhotic haze, punching every sober citizen they find. A whiskey in every hand, and a sheep in every bed and all that. But the Irish decrying this theyre trying to reinvent the day to be a celebration of Ireland. And I chose that word carefully; reinventing. Again, its an Irish-American holiday, for the diaspora. So, I say, leave it. Let them have it, if they want it. Because between you and me, its not a great holiday. The whole day is just getting unreasonably drunk for an untenable amount of time, followed by waking up with a head that feels like its been worked on by an over-enthusiastic taxidermist. Thats all well and good (its like a spring cleaning for the mind, blast out the cobwebs and such) but thats the same as any other bank holiday. Also, St Patrick wasnt a great saint. Sure, he drove the snakes out but he left the spiders. And the bankers. He brought in Catholicism, yes, but look how that turned out. So, why not abandon St Patricks Day altogether? Theres no point trying to take it back; you know how addled Americans get when they think somethings being taken away from them. Lets make our own holiday, one that properly celebrates Ireland. Lets get the obvious out of the way; its called St Patricks Day. Paddys Day is also acceptable. What it is never called is, Pattys Day. Never. Who even is Patty? The first image that springs to mind is the chain-smoking sister of Selma from The Simpsons. Certainly not the same person who was a fifth-century Romano-British Christian missionary and bishop in Ireland. Nor the same individual who became essentially one of our first known influencers due to his popularisation of Shamrock or his alleged banishing of the snakes from our fair isle by chasing them into the sea after they attacked him during a 40-day fast he was undertaking at the top of a hill. No, the person we owe our national holiday to is Saint Pat. A day which has evolved into children painting the tricolour across their faces as they march behind a float containing a selection of lawnmowers, a troupe of Irish dancers freezing on some tarmac as they attempt to stay their teeth from chattering in order to knock out a jig or two, and pubs which spill their overflow of patrons onto the footpaths outside to a rousing, yet garbled rendition of Amhran na bhFiann. I too have been that soldier, standing in a velvet above-the-knee number, a sash fastened with a Tara brooch as it flapped behind me in the gale force wind, like a wannabe superhero. Looking back, it is a wonder that the entire group did not develop shin splints. Have you ever had to knock out a reel on concrete? It is not for the faint-hearted let me tell you. To add insult to impending injury, you not only had to brace yourself against the elements but also gravity. Because Murphys Law would predict, that the spot at which the music would begin to hiss and crackle over the tannoy, normally reserved for use during the May procession, would be on an incline. Attempting to keep our rhythm and not break formation proved beyond taxing when many of us spent a considerable amount of time casting anxious glances upwards towards the tannoy as it rocked in the wind, fastened to an electricity pole with a wing, a prayer and the power of Darby OGill. During primary school, I, along with my classmates, were all assigned a pen pal by our teacher. I drew the long straw by securing an American. Not only that, but a Texan! Many letters later, she advised that she and her family were travelling to Ireland to participate in the parade in Dublin. Why would you come here for the parade? I enquired, Yours are so much better. The warning signs were there really but I ignored them demonstrations of longing to see our cute country, the fact that her entire family were in a marching band when I couldnt stand being around mine for five consecutive minutes. But I was too invested in the glamorous school photo she had sent me of her in front of a cobalt blue backdrop with her perfect American teeth. Meanwhile, the school photographer who had taken mine had zoomed in to such close proximity as to leave nothing to the imagination. Including my jagged eye teeth which were descending from my top gum. She advised that they would be staying in Killarney prior to going to Dublin and it would be awesome if we could meet. That was all my parents needed the lure of some exotic Americans! So, one weekend, they piled us into the car and trundled us to Killarney to extend a thousand welcomes to the Texans. My pre-teen self was giddy with anticipation. Buoyed on by the information I had gleaned from my Sweet Valley High books, I envisaged basking in her worldly sophistication and the thought of future trips to Houston. Killarney was bedecked in its finery for the impending celebrations and I could barely contain myself as we ambled into the hotel to meet them. To say I was not expecting a perm was an understatement. I was deep in the trenches of my French phase, pretending to be older than I was. I was not expecting full-on 1980s I was expecting a Wakefield twin. Strolling around the town, she kept asking me to translate the souvenir plaques in windows which would cause her to deliver a resounding, Cuuuuuuute!. There was talk of Jesus and saving herself whereas I just wanted to know what sweets they had over there; at that stage I was already mentally back in Cork. We had one more letter to each other after the visit: along the lines of, Thanks but no thanks. In the end, their marching band wasnt even featured on TV during the parade. The big pack of boasters. Adrienne Cullen took on the Dutch health system after she was left with terminal cervical cancer following medical negligence. The University Medical Center Utrecht (UMCU) board offered a settlement of 545,000 on the condition that Ms Cullen stay silent about what happened to her. She refused, ignored the gagging order and went public. She then campaigned for a non-gagging clause policy in medical facilities across Europe. Before her death, Adrienne wrote a book Deny, Dismiss, Dehumanize: What Happened when I Went to Hospital on her experience. The last chapter, which we publish here, tells how Adrienne, who now knows her cancer is terminal and her days are numbered, delivered the first in an annual series of lectures named in her honour at UMC Utrecht. December to April 2018 Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, its the only thing that ever has. Margaret Meade The day after Christmas, I stopped being able to eat. We thought it was the result of too much rich food. Then we thought it was a virus. By the end of January, I had lost six kilos. I was admitted to AvL on 1 February and they discovered that I had two tumours blocking my small bowel in two separate places. It looked at first as though surgery would not be an option. I was told they could put a tube directly into my stomach to nourish and hydrate me with a bag of food. I wasnt gone on the idea and started to think about contacting the euthanasia team I had met in 2015. Then, with more diagnostic screening, the picture changed and surgery was an option after all. The new tumours Tumour 7 and Tumour 8 were relatively high in the abdomen, in the mesentery around my small bowel, and so outside the previously irradiated areas. There was about a 15% chance that my bowel would leak after surgery. But an 85% chance of success sounded better to me than being fed bags of white liquid through a tube in my stomach for what remained of my life. So off to the theatre we went. It was 8 February, 2018, my husbands Peters 60th birthday. His present was that the complex surgery by the irrepressible Dr Christianne Lok was a success. Tumour 7 and Tumour 8 were successfully removed from two separate places and everything was looking good. Recovery was slow though. I spent three weeks in hospital. Starting to eat again took time and patience, as did getting back my strength. And strength I surely needed. The First Annual Adrienne Cullen Lecture would take place at UMCU on Friday, 13 April, ironically, seven years to the day after I had undergone cryosurgery there and the ill-fated tissue sample had been sent to the lab and lost. Adrienne argues with a University Medical Center Utrecht spokesman about their decision not to allow a well-known investigative journalist to attend a lecture that she gave last April. I was weak, anaemic and barely able to walk. If I were going to stand in front of an auditorium full of people, I wanted to look strong. I needed more Spitting Mad Adrienne and less Patient Adrienne. I had nine weeks to get myself fit enough to deliver this desperately important lecture that had been promised and denied so many times since June 2016. The lead-up to the lecture was fraught. I was pushing hard for it to be advertised beyond the walls of UMCU, and the wider medical public was declaring its intention to attend. Suddenly, the 120-seat auditorium was not big enough and a 270-seat auditorium was arranged. I wanted maximum media coverage to make sure our story was heard by the widest possible audience; UMCU favoured inviting certain trusted media only. I knew that was code for non-critical. Filming was not to be allowed. Reporters were told that Mrs Cullen is not available for interview. The hospital suddenly became concerned that I was going to tell the details of the various iterations of the gagging clause. They were right. Thats exactly what I was planning to do. Id said so from the start. I contacted the media and told them that I was, and always had been available. I spoke to NOS radio, NRC, Algemene Dagblad, RTL, RTV, Een Vandag, The Irish Times, and several others. I contacted investigative journalist, Ton van der Ham, from Zembla. I told him an agreement had been reached with NOS and RTL that allowed them to film some wide shots of the lecture theatre and a few minutes of my speech. After 15 minutes, the cameras would have to leave the room. Ton said that arrangement would suit him too, and I asked him to come along and to bring a cameraman. The atmosphere before and during the lecture was tense and uneasy. Franx, Van der Vaart and I were, understandably, apprehensive. The organisers were anxious too. They didnt quite know what was going to happen and they didnt trust me. Each of the main doors had a security man on it. Outside, security personnel watched who was coming and going. An Irish friend was stopped and questioned about who she was and asked for credentials before being allowed in. Another friend, who was taking notes while the lecture was under way, was questioned about what she was writing. The security guard tried to take her notebook away. Unbeknownst to me at the time, Van der Haam had arrived and had been refused entry. He was promised that I would give him an interview after the lecture, and he sat down near the entrance to wait. At the front of the auditorium, Hans van Delden, UMCUs professor of medical ethics, who was chairing the lecture, was warning those in attendance not to film or record any part of the lecture or to post anything from it on social media. The hospital had refused to allow its own communications department to record it for teaching purposes. The reason for this was, I was told, that Professor Van der Vaart didnt want to be filmed. Not so. Van der Vaart had been crystal clear in a meeting just before the lecture that he was in favour of it being filmed and used for training. In the front row of the auditorium, Margriet Schneider sat alongside Ronnie van Diemen, head of the Dutch Healthcare Inspectorate (IGZ). Beside them sat Kevin Kelly, Irish Ambassador to the Netherlands, who had been a huge support to Peter and me since he arrived in The Hague in 2016. In the row behind sat UMCUs head of legal affairs, Albert Vermaas, and other members of UMCUs executive and supervisory boards. The rest of the audience consisted of division and department heads, senior medics from the Netherlands seven other university hospitals, patients, doctors, nurses and final-year medical students. Nothing like this lecture had ever taken place before in a Dutch hospital, or anywhere else in the world, for that matter. Nobody knew what to expect. Van der Vaart spoke first. Then I spoke. Then Arie Franx. We took it in turns to unfold the events of the past five years and tell of the unbearable consequences they had had for all three of us. Franx and Van der Vaart concentrated on their own shortcomings (too much so, in my view). I concentrated on the more serious shortcomings of UMCU as an institution and on how shamefully it had behaved towards Peter and me. The audience was appalled at the extent of UMCUs failures. Someone gasped as I recounted my meeting with Jan Kimpen in 2015 when he had asked pointedly if I trusted him to consider my position and come back to me and then never saw him or heard from him again. There were more gasps as I displayed the text of the gagging clause that prevented Peter and me from speaking about my treatment at UMCU, what had happened, or about the settlement agreement. There was audible amazement when I said that no inquiry had ever been carried out into what had gone wrong in my case and that I was probably going to die without knowing precisely what had happened, and with those responsible (apart from Van der Vaart) never being held to account. Staying alive to find out the truth Adrienne Cullen with her husband Peter Cluskey at University College Cork last December, when she was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Laws. Picture: Michael Mac Sweeney People were getting upset. They could see the human misery that had been caused solely in the interest of preserving the hospitals reputation and the standing of its leaders. In the front row, Margriet Schneider listened. At the end of the lecture, she said nothing to explain her hospitals role in the fiasco we had just revealed. She shook my hand, thanked me, took credit for organising the lecture, and left the room. Outside, UMCU security guards had bundled Ton van der Ham into a room and called the police. He had, they said, been filming people, including patients, leaving the auditorium. Van der Ham said he had approached the first people he saw leaving the auditorium to ask if the lecture was finished. He was still waiting for his interview. His cameraman was sitting away from the auditorium doors, and the camera was turned off. The police came and Van der Ham, a journalist doing his job, was arrested and kept in custody for several hours. Of course, he was never charged with anything. There would be no interview with me that day. UMCU was no doubt glad when the lecture was over. They had, they felt, limited the damage to those who had attended on the day. The fact that there was no recording was a big plus for them. All they needed to do now was to keep their heads down and wait for it all to blow over. I had a different plan. The latest imaging showed that the cancer had spread to my lungs, my liver and my pancreas. My left ureter was partly blocked again and the mesentery around my small bowel from where Tumour 7 and Tumour 8 had been removed in February showed recurrence. Tumour 6 in my groin had also started to grow again and I had tumour nodes coming through my skin. I went on holiday. I spent a few days in a hotel by the sea in Ireland, finishing this book and planning my next move. Only Peter knew where I was. I wrote another email to Margriet Schneider and Jan-Willem Lammers and said it was my final request for an inquiry to be carried out into what happened in 2011. I told them I was tired of having only an anecdotal and incomplete version of events, where professors Franx and Van der Vaart believed that the changeover from paper to electronic files had been central, but Professor Jan Kimpen, CEO at the time, denied categorically that this had played any role at all. I told them it was unacceptable that I was floundering around still searching for answers. I pointed out that, only as a result of my persistence, UMCU now carried out independent investigations into serious-harm events because it now suddenly believed it was the right thing to do. So why was it still not the right thing to do in my case? I concluded by asking them if they were still unwilling to investigate, and, if so, I asked them to explain to me in writing why. I got my answer the next day. Lammers replied and appeared to be agreeing with me: We also feel it is inappropriate that we did not do a thorough investigation at the time of discovery of this very serious incident, which is so harmful to you, your husband and your relatives. After the lecture, I have had several discussions both within and outside the UMC Utrecht whether we should initiate an investigation several years after this has happened. Most opinions were against it, mainly because necessary steps have been taken to very much reduce the chance that such a mistake happens again. However, it is, as you clearly mention in your email, not correct not to do so. I reread it several times, just to make sure I wasnt misunderstanding. UMCU was going to carry out an independent investigation into what happened to my results in 2011. I would, finally, be given answers. All I needed now was to stay alive long enough for the inquiry to conclude. To those with religious belief, faith the idea, the commitment may remain a mystery but one that is nonetheless enthusiastically and sincerely embraced. To those without religious conviction, the idea is equally mysterious and most non-believers, the civilised ones anyway, adopt a live-and-let-live attitude. Belief or disbelief is not usually, in most of todays world, a divisive issue. It can be, but most believers and non-believers, again the civilised ones, can be united in incomprehension and horror at the savagery religion can provoke in those opposed to one religion or another. The murder of 49 people while at prayer in New Zealand mosques in Christchurch what an ironic name in this sad context is the latest manifestation of this irrational, unfathomable poison. That it happened in New Zealand, a country regarded as sane and peaceful, seems to make the outrage all the more chilling. If this atrocity had occurred in Detroit or Boston instead of Christchurch, the world would be outraged briefly but we would shrug our shoulders and wait for Americas next self-inflicted gun tragedy. The setting of yesterdays massacres is almost as unnerving as the outrage. The attacks, described by New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern as one of New Zealands darkest days were carried out, in part at least, by Brenton Tarrant, 28, from Australia, who apparently described himself as an ordinary white man who decided to take a stand. He was named in reports in Australia as the gunman who appeared to have live-streamed the attacks on Facebook as he shot victims. How that live-streaming might encourage other unhinged fantasists is another reason to assert more control over free-for-all social media. Social media, however, made one minor positive contribution. A Christchurch motorist filmed police making an arrest and broadcasted it on social media. The familiarity, the ordinariness of the setting it could be Rochestown, Rathmines, or Dooradoyle is a sharp reminder that we would be unwise to imagine ourselves immune to attacks of this kind. After all, we have a volatile and not entirely settled history of religious conflict on this island too. Recent unease over the repatriation of Isis supporters to Britain and Ireland adds to that debate too. Ireland has many positive connections with New Zealand adopted Kiwis Joe Schmidt and Bundee Aki will give their all for Ireland in Cardiff this afternoon. Indeed, many of those who left this country long ago to make new lives in Aotearoa though they would not have called it that did so to escape religious conflict. How sad it is, then, that others, our contemporaries, paid the ultimate price for their religious beliefs, some of them perhaps having moved to New Zealand to escape conflict in their country of origin. In recent times, there has been much discussion about the radicalisation of young Europeans by Muslim extremists. These murders show that we must confront the radicalisation of young white men by nativist right-wing forces too. An Australian senator who has been criticised for his remarks regarding the Christchurch attack has lashed out at a teenager after being egged. Australian Senator Fraser Anning, who blamed Friday's attack on immigration and "Muslim fanatics," hits a 17-year-old boy who egged him pic.twitter.com/CIqnQpWYtE Following the shooting at two mosques in Christchurch which left 49 dead, Senator Fraser Anning wrote on twitter: The real cause of bloodshed on New Zealand streets today is the immigration program which allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place. A 17-year-old teenager holding a smartphone, broke an egg on Mr Anning's head during a press conference in Melbourne. Multiple videos show Mr Fanning appearing to respond by hitting the teenager twice. The 17-year-old is then wrestled to the ground by members of the audience until members of the police arrive. Content advisory: The following video contains explicit language: Dateline Fighting Corruption Needs Independence The Irrawaddy discusses the Anti-Corruption Commission's recent case against Tanintharyi Region Chief Minister Daw Lei Lei Maw, its limits and its potential. Kyaw Zwa Moe: Welcome to Dateline Irrawaddy! This week we will discuss the actions of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), for which we should say bravo. The ACC has filed a complaint against and detained Tanintharyi Region Chief Minister Daw Lei Lei Maw under the Anti-Corruption Law. This is what the majority of the complainants wanted to see. We will discuss how effective the ACC was over the last year, what its shortcomings are and how important it is to fight corruption to establish democracy. Daw Moe Moe Tun, leading member of the MATA (Myanmar Alliance for Transparency and Accountability) and GPS (Genuine Peoples Servants) director and Access to Justice Initiative leading member Ko Thwin Lin Aung join me to discuss this. Im The Irrawaddy English editor Kyaw Zwa Moe. From the point of view of the people and of public spending, it is good news. The National League for Democracy (NLD) has taken harsh action against a minister it appointed. What is your assessment of the ACC since it was formed in November 2017? How much are you satisfied with its actions? Moe Moe Tun: After it was reformed in 2017, it tried to engage with civil society organizations and the general public. And the Anti-Corruption Law of the previous government was a mere anti-bribery law. The commission also amended it. Though it is still not perfect, it has become better compared to the past. Though the commission still has shortcomings, it deserves credit for taking action against a chief minister, as in Daw Lei Lei Maws case. But still, questions remain. Weve always asked them how far they can go. KZM: Why? MMT: The commission can launch investigations into civil servants who appear to be suspiciously wealthy at its own discretion. But in our country there are many corruption scandals [involving civil servants] besides Daw Lei Lei Maw. And there are cases in which the ACC said that by law it couldnt take action. So we always question how independent it is in reality. KZM: Its independence will reflect how much integrity it has. The ACC set out six codes of ethics in May 2018. They are integrity, independency, accountability, transparency, fairness and inclusiveness. Ko Thwin Lin Aung, I think it all depends on political will, the commitment to fight corruption. U Thein Seins administration did not handle any corruption case effectively, and it lacked political will. What is your assessment of the current situation? Thwin Lin Aung: Optimistically, as the current government has the will to fight corruption, there is increased anti-corruption activity, which is good. But its independence, the second point you mentioned, is negative. KZM: Why? TLA: The anti-corruption commission should take necessary action at its own discretion without fear or favor. KZM: But ACC Chairman U Aung Kyi has said so unequivocally. TLA: But the reality is not the case. The commission under U Thein Seins government did not work effectively. At that time it was not chaired by U Aung Kyi, and it barely worked. Under the NLD government, especially after U Win Myint became president, the government has worked actively to fight corruption, and the ACC has followed suit. But there are things the government is unwilling to do. We are satisfied with the ACCs action in Daw Lei Lei Maws case. We praise it. But it appears the ACC touched the case only after lawmakers filed a complaint. But according to the amendments introduced in 2018, the commission can launch an investigation once a scandal erupts. The scandal broke some three or four months before lawmakers filed a complaint. There was a flurry of posts by Tanintharyi locals on social media. So there are such restrictions. And there are also restrictions imposed by the 2008 Constitution. Chairman U Aung Kyi himself has spoken about it. KZM: What are they? TLA: For example, in the cases that involve the Tatmadaw [military], the commission can do nothing even if it receives complaints. The law states that any matter related to the Tatmadaw can be handled only by the Tatmadaw, and nobody can intervene. There are big restrictions such as this. KZM: According to the ACC, most of the complaints that are filed involved [civil servants in] Yangon Region. But little action has been taken in Yangon against bribery and corruption. And in the case of [Yangon] Attorney General U Han Htoo, the president had to intervene. It appears as though the case would not have been revealed otherwise. What can the commission do to respond to scandals not only after receiving complaints? Ive read about an official complaint by former Yangon Region lawmaker Daw Nyo Nyo Thin regarding the report of the Yangon Region auditor-general and the loss of public funds. We have heard nothing [from the ACC] in response. What is your view on this? MMT: Lets take a look into cases it has handled. The ACC took action in U Han Htoos case at the instruction of the president. Lawmakers including the Parliament speaker filed a complaint with the president. So the commission conducted an investigation at the instruction of the president. This is what we presume, and the reality is not different. So we have always asked about the extent of its authority. Weve asked recently and are still asking today. KZM: You asked the commission? MMT: I will keep asking. We should question its authority and independence, because it did not take action immediately after the scandals but only after the president gave approval. Regarding the complaint by Daw Nyo Nyo Thin that the Yangon Region governments proposed projects were not in line with the development program based on the Yangon Region audit, it is clear that it is the case. But the commission didnt take action. So we should ask who we, the general public, should file complaints with. But to draw a conclusion from its current behavior, the final decision is made by the president. KZM: It has to do fact-finding to take legal action. As Ive said, the political will is the key factor at play. There were many problems due to the lack of political will under U Thein Seins government. The commission has the political will, but its mandate is limited. So what suggestions can experts and CSOs [civil society organizations] make to improve the situation? TLA: Regarding independence, CSOs and those who have the right background should be appointed to the commission to ensure checks and balances. And there must be legal guarantees, which also concerns independence. When the Anti-Corruption Law was amended for the fourth time in 2018, the one and only legal guarantee [added] was the provision that allows investigations in response to scandals. And we have called for the review of another amendment that criminalizes the bribe giver. We divide bribery in two: positive bribery and negative bribery. Some give bribes for their personal interest out of greed. In that case, it is OK to take action against the giver. But on the other hand, there are cases in which one has to give bribes to prevent suffering, for example bribing [hospital officials] to get a medical operation done for their children. So we have called for amending the law in that regard. But it was not changed. In some cases it [the ACC] pardoned the givers as prosecution witnesses. In Daw Lei Lei Maws case, as the givers gave out of greed, they were arrested. Another thing is that it cant take action directly against a civil servant because of the Civil Servant Law. It has to inform the heads of the concerned departments. The commission said in its statement that although it received complaints against over 20 [civil servants], it could only take action against six or so. It appears the others fled after their department heads were informed by the ACC. So we proposed changes to cover this weakness. But no amendment was made. But as the president is willing [to fight corruption], it has issued an order to departments to take immediate action once informed by the ACC. It is working for the time being, but it is not a legal guarantee. It is because of the president. But what about when there is a new president? And what if the new president has no will? We have these questions. Overall, there must be independence. To ensure independence, there must be diversity within the commission. Only then will there be checks and balances within the commission to ensure independence. Another thing is that there must be strong legal guarantees. At present the commission is just acting according to the green light given by the government. It brakes when there is a yellow light. It appears that it braked when a yellow light appeared in Yangon and Tanintharyi. KZM: State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi visited Tanintharyi and heard first-hand accounts. After she received the complaints herself, [the ACC] took quicker action. U Aung Kyi said that when the commission helped form corruption prevention units [in ministries], departments were reluctant to cooperate. To what extent does this represent a challenge for the ACC? MMT: As we are engaged in EITI [Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative], we have to work together with many bureaucrats from the departments, and there are big challenges. Taking a look at the extractive industry, we found that the entire industry is systemically corrupt. So it will be a huge challenge for the ACC to form corruption prevention units. KZM: As far as I know, only one unit has been formed so far, in the Construction Ministry. MMT: For example, if a corruption prevention unit is to be formed under Ministry of Electricity and Energy, there will be problems between them. They wont like being put under surveillance. So there are a lot of challenges. It is the right move to take action against the [Tanintharyi Region] chief minister. It has increased the credibility of both the government and the NLD. But there are still many bureaucrats who commit corruption regularly. There is a need to take action against them. Thats why we have been asking the commission if there are restrictions and if it has challenges fighting corruption. We, MATA, cooperate [with the ACC] because we have trust in U Aung Kyi. But it is very difficult for us to trust other members of the commission. Only when people think they can trust them will they file complaints. People are reluctant to file complaints because they dont trust them. KZM: When the previous commission was re-formed, 10 of the 12 members were replaced. TLA: Most of them were replaced. KZM: It is very difficult to change minds. From top to bottom, [the bureaucracy] is used to this [corruption]. All Asian countries are used to this. Laos and Myanmar are ranked together [on the Corruption Perceptions Index] by Transparency International. We are ranked 130 out of 180 countries. TLA: It is 132 now. KZM: So it has declined a bit. But it has improved compared to the period from 2012 to 2015. Some say that [the government] is brave to designate Yangon Region corruption-free. In reality that is impossible. So how long do you think it will take Myanmar to reduce corruption and improve its rank even if government leaders have the political will and the commission can work more effectively with greater independence? MMT: It will take time, because people voluntarily pay grease money at departments to get things done more quickly. So each and every citizen must change this practice. So it will take time to get people to change their minds. If people have greater trust in the commission, this will be quicker. So far we have not seen the commission taking action in response to scandals. It takes action only after the president gives instructions. If the commission takes actions in response to scandals, it will win the trust of the people, and the process of changing peoples minds will be quicker. KZM: The system has been corrupt from about 60 years, since the time of the Burma Socialist Program Party. So it will take time. Thank you both for your comments. Burma This Week in Parliament Lawmakers arrive at the Union Parliament in Naypyitaw. / Htet Naing Zaw / The Irrawaddy Monday (March 11) The Complaints Committee submitted its report to the Upper House. According to the report, most of the complaints it received from February 2016 to the end of December 2018 involved the Home Affairs Ministry, particularly the Myanmar Police Force and the Prisons Department. Tuesday (March 12) Military-appointed lawmaker Brig. Gen. Kyaw Kyaw Soe, said amending Article 261 of the Constitution was the only solution to de-escalating political tensions in ethnic states. Lawmakers were discussing a report by the Joint Bill Committee on a proposal by the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) to amend the Article 261 so that region and state chief ministers are elected by their local legislatures rather than, as is the case now, appointed by the president. Wednesday (March 13) In the Upper House, lawmakers discussing a report on the governments Guarantees, Pledges and Undertakings Vetting Committee expressed dissatisfaction with some ministers. They said they felt the ministers had not answered their questions adequately. Thursday (March 14) The Union Parliament approved a proposal by lawmaker U Nay Lin Aung that urges the Construction Ministry to prioritize the building of inter-village roads in ethnic and remote areas. Friday (March 15) Lawmakers continued to debate a report by the Bill Committee about a proposal by the USDP to amend Article 261 of the Constitution. On This Day The Day Burmas 1st Female Minister Took Office Mrs. Ba Maung Chain On this day in 1952, Mrs. Ba Maung Chain become Myanmars first female minister in the Union government when she was appointed Karen State minister, a post she occupied until March 4, 1953. Born to a family of respected Karen ethnic leaders, Claribel Irene Powho was more commonly known as Mrs. Ba Maung Chain after her husband, road construction chief engineer U Ba Maung Chainwas a prominent peace negotiator between Karen armed groups and the Anti-Fascist Peoples Freedom League government during the civil war in 1949, a year after Myanmar regained independence. She became the first chairperson of the Karen State government upon the establishment of Karen State in 1951, and later served as a trustee of the All Asian Christian Association, dedicating her life to the propagation of Christianity. Mrs. Ba Maung Chain died in 1980. In Myanmars political history, there have been only four female ministers in the Union cabinet from 1952 to date, including State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, who serves concurrently as foreign affairs minister. After Mrs. Ba Maung Chains appointment as Karen State Minister, it would be another 62 years until the state in southern Myanmar got its second female minister, with the 2016 nomination of Daw Nang Khin Htwe Myint as Karen States Chief Ministerthe regional chief position. On This Day When a White Bridge Ran Red With Students' Blood People commemorate the fatal government crackdown on March 16, 1988, on student protesters at Yangon's "white bridge" in September of that year. / Htein Win This Week in Review A weekly review of the best and most popular stories published in the Imperial Valley Press. Also, featured upcoming events, new movies at local theaters, the week in photos and much more. iStock(KABUL, Afghanistan) -- After nearly 18 years of war, the U.S. and the Taliban are deeply engaged in what was once unthinkable: peace talks. The militant group has killed countless American soldiers and even more Afghan troops and civilians. Its been bombed and blown up by U.S. weaponry, pushed out of control and from the capital, Kabul -- only to fight its way back toward power year after year. And yet, American diplomats now find themselves on the other side of the table, without Afghan government representatives, to negotiate an agreement that will see U.S. troops withdraw from Afghanistan. The United States has a longstanding policy of not negotiating with terrorists. However, a key part of the Trump administration's decision to engage the Taliban directly stems from the Afghan group not being on the State Department's list of "foreign terrorist organizations," or FTOs. Thats a legal designation made by the U.S. government that allows it to bring penalties -- financial sanctions, visa restrictions, prosecution of individual supporters -- against a group. The department has a long list of FTOs, from groups such as the Basque separatists in Spain and the Tamil Tigers in Sri Lanka, to more well-known names such as al Qaeda, ISIS and Hezbollah. While the Talibans Pakistan-based branch was designated as an FTO in 2010, the Taliban itself has never been. The group likely does meet the criteria: It is foreign-based, actively engaged in terrorist activity, and that activity is a threat to U.S. national security interests. With the Taliban, the label should be a no-brainer, as one U.S. official told ABC News. This is also complicated by the fact that senior U.S. officials occasionally refer to them as terrorists, despite lacking the legal designation. On March 4, for example, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the U.S. was trying to negotiate with the Taliban terrorists in Afghanistan. When asked about the discrepancy, a State Department spokesperson pointed to the Talibans listing as a Treasury Department specially designated global terrorist entity since 2002. That separate designation means it and its members are subject to sanctions; embargoes; and, because of an act of Congress in 2008, other things such as immigration restrictions. Because of that, the U.S. has full power to pursue the Talibans financial and other activities, the spokesperson said. Still, the State Department designation is a special status. It really makes for a lot of confusion when you have a group thats been as deadly as the Taliban, who provided sanctuary for al Qaeda to stage its 9/11 attacks, that it had never been added to the FTO list. ... Thats incredibly problematic, said Jason Blazakis, who served as the director of the State Departments Counterterrorism Finance and Designations Office from 2008 to 2018. The inconsistency is largely for political reasons -- a long-running fear during the Bush, Obama and now Trump administrations that labeling the group a foreign terrorist organization would anger and alienate them, making it harder for U.S. diplomats to ultimately engage them in any political process. To successive administrations, the timing was never right to make a designation. But there are no legal restrictions on American officials talking to terrorist organizations or their leadership. In Colombia, for example, the U.S. and the allied government engaged with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia People's Army (FARC), even though they have been designated a terror group since 1997. Some analysts say designating the Taliban a terrorist organization would have given U.S. negotiators something to concede in talks in exchange for Taliban promises. You could have removed the FTO tag as part of this process, as something you would give the Taliban, said Blazakis, now the director of the Middlebury Institutes Center on Terrorism, Extremism and Counterterrorism. Now its a missing potential incentive. Perhaps even more important, terrorist is a label that matters to the U.S.-backed Afghan government. The Taliban and terrorism -- its one DNA, Afghan National Security Adviser Hamdullah Mohib said Wednesday in Washington, condemning it as a group that murders civilians in cold blood, conducts terrorist activities across the country, and blows up schools and mosques. The Afghan government has been increasingly frustrated by U.S. talks with the Taliban for that reason -- the administration has excluded the Afghan government while dealing directly with this terrorist organization. It would be a shame if a deal was made with the terrorists who killed more than 5,400 Americans -- and if they were given control of the lives of the Afghan people. That would be a win for those terrorists, Mohib said Tuesday. Tensions between the U.S. and Afghan governments over the Taliban talks burst into public this week, but for now, the U.S. remains on track with its negotiations with the militant group. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. Videos Sorry, there are no recent results for popular videos. Police said suspect's face is covered with a medical style mask and possibly has a darker mask underneath it. He is wearing a medical style neck brace and his left arm is wrapped in a bandage. Yemens Huthi rebels warned on Saturday they could launch attacks against the capitals of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, who lead a military coalition against them. The threat came as the United Nations was trying to salvage a truce deal in Yemen, seen as crucial to diplomatic efforts to end the countrys four-year war. We have aerial photographs and coordinates of dozens of headquarters, facilities and military bases of the enemy, rebel military spokesman Yahya Saree said in comments carried by the rebels Al-Masirah channel. The legitimate targets of our forces extend to the capital of Saudi Arabia and to the emirate of Abu Dhabi, capital of the UAE, he said. We have manufactured advanced generations of attack aircraft, and new systems will soon be functional. The Iran-linked Huthi rebels have targeted Saudi border towns and Riyadh with ballistic missiles and also claimed drone attacks on the airports of Abu Dhabi and Dubai during the course of the conflict Saudi Arabia has said the missiles were all intercepted by its air force, with one civilian reported killed by falling shrapnel, while the UAE has denied the alleged drone attacks. Saudi Arabia and its military allies joined the Yemeni governments war against the Iran-linked Huthis in March 2015, triggering what the UN calls the worlds worst humanitarian crisis. Some 10 million Yemenis face mass starvation, according to the UN. Both sides to the conflict stand accused of acts that could amount to war crimes. The World Health Organization estimates nearly 10,000 people have been killed in Yemen since March 2015, when Saudi Arabia and its allies joined the governments war against the Huthis. Other rights groups estimate the toll could be much higher. On Wednesday the UN Security Council met to discuss the stalled truce deal that had been agreed in Sweden in December between the Saudi-backed Yemeni government and the Huthis. The deal which called for a ceasefire, rebel pullback and mutual redeployment from Hodeida, Yemens lifeline Red Sea port controlled by the Huthis offered the best hope in years of moving toward an end to the conflict. While the fighting in Hodeida has eased, redeployment efforts have stalled in recent weeks. UN envoy Martin Griffiths told the Security Council on Wednesday he was still working to make the redeployment a reality. bur-ny GRANTS PASS, Ore. -- Richard Miller turned 100-years-old this week. The American Legion celebrated their 100 year anniversary on Friday. Veterans at the Grants Pass American Legion thought there was no better way to celebrate 100 years than honoring a veteran who turned 100-years-old. Miller is the oldest male veteran in Josephine County. Miller was drafted into the army in World War 2. "I was supposed to get out in one year," Miller said. "But that war started and lasted for four years." After the war, he worked for the post office in Los Angeles for 26 years. Miller walked five miles to deliver mail to 300 people every day. He says he thinks that's why he's stayed healthy for so long. His advice... "Take life easy. The first hundred years are the hardest." Miller has been married for 70 years and even still drives around. He drives his best friend Charles Gene Kettwig around all the time. "They just renewed his drivers license for 8 more years," Kettwig told Newswatch12. Miller's granddaughter is one of four generations he's helped raise. Eileen Saia says her grandfather is her favorite person and that he is a special man who makes every person feel important. "He's a good good man and a good good father," Saia said while tearing up. The Grants Pass American Legion (GPAL) honored Miller and made him an official member of the legion. Now, Miller is the 24th World War 2 veteran GPAL member. They are all over 90-years-old. The remaing 200 members are all veterans mostly over 80-years-old. Members told Newswatch12 they're trying to recruit young veterans as well, but struggle to get them interested in joining. Leaders at the GPAL say joining an American Legion is important for veterans. Legions allow veterans to meet and talk with other veterans that share similar experiences. To have a place to come to and socialize with other veterans is special," Gerald McMillan, an officer for GPAL, said. "They enjoy coming here and talking over old war stories." He says it's a unique environment that can't be replicated. Well we are here for the support of all veterans, whatever we can do to help them," McMillan said. He says you don't have to be a member to stop by GPAL. Guests are welcome to come in and see what it's all about before joining. In September, the GPAL will celebrate their 100th anniversary as well. 316 Shares Share This article is sponsored by Careers by KevinMD.com. Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name. So go the famous lyrics from the theme song for Cheers, the iconic sitcom of the 1980s. The name thing can get really personal in medicine and everyone has an opinion as evidenced by a plaintive blog posting on KevinMD. I work in a place where nobody calls me by my name, the unidentified contributor wrote. They all address me by a moniker of their choosing that I have asked them not to use. I have asked them to use my name The result is that I feel isolated and unseen. I feel as though I am valued for my function first and acknowledged as a person second. The doctor, maybe a Sam or maybe a Susan, waxes poetic about the pitfalls of nomenclature. Theres a lot of truth to the saying that the sweetest sound in any language is the sound of your name. Im deprived of that music daily. In a later piece of prose on the same site, anesthesiologist Aalap Shah, MD, of Los Angeles, expressed similar sentiments. (This is getting emotional.) To hear it [the name] culminates in an unparalleled emotional response much as it did for the mothers and fathers who blessed us with our name. And it should not have to take a backseat to a title. Still, it sometimes times feels like things are getting progressively more casual. But how important is it to call a doctor by his or her title? It used to be de rigueur, but now more doctors introduce themselves by their first names, even signing the same when they send an email. Other physicians get bent, even offended, if a patient calls them by a first name. After all, theres a very real sense that after a lot of years, along with blood, sweat, and tears not to mention thousands of dollars the title of Doctor should not be taken lightly. Health eCareers asked physicians for their take on this slightly sensitive subject and heres what they said, no holds barred. The role of gender Edna Ma, MD is another Los Angeles-based anesthesiologist. She says her patients frequently refer to her by her first name, even after shes introduced herself as Doctor Ma, your anesthesiologist. While Im not offended by this action, I often wonder if this is due to my female gender or position in the operating room, Ma says. Frequently the surgeon is perceived as captain of the ship and the anesthesiologist is second in command. I do believe that when a patient or staff refers to you as Doctor X, they are communicating respect and trust. Ma says anesthesiologists work has been compared to that of referees at sporting events. You only notice them when there is a bad call, she says. In other words, patients only remember their anesthesiologist if something goes wrong. In this context I am always slightly amazed that patients would even remember my name at all, first or last. Otolaryngologist Inna Husain, MD prefers to be called Doctor in professional settings at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. When interacting with patients, it helps establish a certain level of professionalism, she says. In addition, being a female physician, I find that introducing myself as Doctor helps to clarify my role. Most female physicians will tell you about how we are often mistaken for nurses or students. The role of professionalism Cannabis doctor Herve Damas, MD, MBA of Miami Beach agrees that professionalism is critical, and that the word doctor has influence. This makes it harder for the lines to be crossed or blurred, he says. The reason thats important is because certain patients can become overly friendly, making romantic overtures or making requests that are unreasonable. Use of the last name helps with communication and makes it a little less likely for there to be confusion. As a pediatrician and pain researcher and now a businesswoman, Amy Baxter, MD of Atlanta says shes a mentor and guide, not a friend. The authority that fifteen years of study gives me is important when I tell a patient something they are afraid to hear, says Baxter. Granted, I practice emergency medicine so my rapport doesnt build over time, but using Doctor Baxter both lets patients know Im not a nurse and that I really, really, really do know what Im talking about. Restorative dentist Richard Winter, DDS, of Milwaukee, is open to either salutation. Some patients may want to be seen as equals since everyone is truly equal to everyone else in terms of respect, he says. If I ask a patient how they prefer to be addressed, then they get to choose. If they take it upon themselves to decide what I want to be called, who am I to tell them they are wrong? As I always say, they can call me anything as long as they dont call me late for dinner. A first name helps distinguish him from his brother, Bruce, also in his same practice, and from his father, nephew, and daughter, also all in dental practice. The Winter name has served Milwaukee for ninety-six years, he says. Different locations and different rules Across the pond at Londons (UK) Same Day Doctor, the companys CEO, Laurence Gerlis, MA, MB, BChir (Cantab), M.R.C.P., says the independent regulator of Englands health and social care services, the Care Quality Commission, requires doctors to wear name badges. Patients often look at my badge and say Hello Laurence,' Gerlis says. I find it mildly amusing. Since they are the patient, this feels a bit inappropriate, but I do not mind at all. They sometimes ask me how I am. Originally from across the other pond, emergency medicine physician Jack Springer, MD, now of La Jolla, California, says its more common in Australia to be called by a first name. He doesnt usually mind as long as it doesnt interfere with the therapeutic relationship, which in his specialty is a one-time occurrence. As long as casual niceties dont blur that line, then Im happy with it, he says. If I were a primary care doctor with continuity in care of patients, I would want a first-name basis with them all if they were comfortable with that arrangement. First names first First names are just the ticket for neurosurgeon Abhishiek Sharma, MD, in Phoenix. I personally prefer patients to call me by my first name, says Sharma. I can go by Abhi or Sharma for ease of pronunciation. It allows me to connect with patients as an individual and not merely as a doctor. It also allows me to be a better physician and truly understand the patients condition and history. All of that may ultimately lead to better patient outcomes, he says. At the end of the day, maybe just dont take this all so seriously. For integrative pediatrician Joel Warsh, MD, of Studio City, California, its possible to find humor in all of this name stuff. I usually go by Doctor Joel,' he says. I think with kids, it is better to be informal. I prefer for the atmosphere in the office to be fun and calm and Doctor Warsh sounds too stuffy for me. Also some people call me Doctor Gator because my wifes last name is Intelligator. So, whats in a name? It depends upon the physician, and for sure, upon the patient. Stephanie Stephens is a writer, Careers by KevinMD.com. Find jobs at Careers by KevinMD.com. Search thousands of physician, PA, NP, and CRNA jobs now. 243 Shares Share On January 28, 1986, the space shuttle Challenger disintegrated shortly after liftoff, resulting in the death of the entire seven-person crew. The subsequent investigation revealed that a joint in the right solid rocket booster failed during liftoff, which occurred due to the inadequacy of the O-ring seals. It was about 28-degrees on the morning of the space shuttle launch, and the O-ring seals were not designed to perform at such a cold temperature. Why then, given the suboptimal conditions, was the mission still a go? The 2019 film The Challenger Disaster illuminates the multitude of factors that contributed to this tragedy. Ultimately, what happened can be summarized by sociologist Diane Vaughans philosophy of the normalization of deviance. She writes, the normalization of deviance means that people within the organization become so much accustomed to a deviation that they dont consider it as deviant, despite the fact that they far exceed their own rules for the elementary safety. In the case of Challenger, the performance of the solid rocket booster had deviated from expectations during previous launches. However, Vaughan explains, [this] evidence [which was] initially interpreted as a deviation from expected performance was reinterpreted as within the bounds of acceptable risk. In other words, the deviance became such a normal occurrence that those within the organization no longer even consider it to be deviant. Of course, rocket scientists and engineers are not the only professionals who are susceptible to the temptation of deviating from the protocol. Unfortunately, studies have shown that health care professionals consistently and even brazenly neglect established protocols and standards of care. Over time, these deviations become normalized. Even in workplaces with carefully crafted policies, protocols, and procedures, there is often an unwritten understanding that the way things are done is not actually entirely aligned with the explicitly stated rules. For example, a phlebotomist may claim that its challenging to feel a babys vein through a latex glove, which is standard required personal protective equipment. As a workaround, she might put on the gloves as required but then immediately tear off the index fingertip of one of them so she can find the vein more easily. It is important to note that deviations like this are virtually never performed with criminal or malicious intent. Therefore, when confronting the normalization of deviance, it is helpful to assume positive intent. In the example above, the phlebotomist didnt intend any harm. She justified her behavior by claiming that it was in the best interest of the patient. After all, she didnt want to miss the vein and subject the baby to multiple sticks. Most deviations are explained with similarly relatable reasons. Being a health care provider comes with high expectations and intense pressure not only to ensure the best patient outcomes but to do so efficiently. The copious rules and regulations that are put in place are often perceived as hindrances that inhibit ones ability to do their job well. A presentation from NASA acknowledges, Theres a natural human tendency to rationalize shortcuts under pressure. Most of the time, nothing bad happens as a result of these shortcuts, but the very infrequency of serious catastrophes is one of the biggest contributing factors to complacency. The severity of the risk is steadily downgraded according to the illogical idea that if no accident has happened by now, it never will. However, Dr. Banja points out, The recipe for disaster [] requires these errors, lapses or mistakes to go unattended, unappreciated, or unresolved for an extended period of time. The Challenger tragedy is only one example of the consequences that can and do occur as a result. When such egregious incidents take place and are found to have been preventable, everyone wonders why no one said anything. Why were these deviations simply permitted to continue for so long? The reality is, there are formidable psychological barriers that dissuade people from speaking up. Health care professionals, in particular, tend to sympathize with and support one another to a greater extent than those in other fields. Even so, this is no excuse for disregarding the measures that have been put in place to protect patients. Therefore, one of the first steps toward remedying the normalization of deviance is for health care professionals to continually recommit to the penultimate value of patient safety. We can also take time to reflect on the gravity and repercussions of an adverse events actual occurrence. Perhaps, this will help motivate us to break bad habits and hold one another and ourselves accountable. By intervening early and consistently to correct deviations, many tragedies can be prevented. Shannon Casey is a physician assistant. Image credit: Shutterstock.com EUGENE, Ore. -- Eugene City Club met at the University of Oregon Baker Center Friday to talk about the many issues transgender people face every day. Bethany Grace Howe spoke about her personal journey as she transitioned and reminded the community why its difficult to be trans in this time. She said because there are many actions currently taking place in the government limiting the rights of those who've transitioned, they feel their community is under attack. Howe said if people focus on supporting them rather than questioning, itll make the process much easier. "If somebody tells you theyre transgender, non-binary, whatever it is, even if you dont understand it, believe them. And I think once you start with belief and empathy, the understanding part can come later, Howe said. She focuses on helping people in the community understand a very misunderstood part of the population. Howe also does stand-up comedy around Eugene. EUGENE, Ore. -- Eugene's Muslim community is mourning the loss of the 49 people killed in a New Zealand terrorist attack that targeted worshippers at two mosques, and many other people in the community are standing with them in solidarity. During Friday afternoon prayer at the Eugene Islamic Center, a group of supports from all backgrounds and faiths stood outside in solidary, creating a wall so the worshippers could pray in peace. They where asked to come inside the mosque, where they all said a prayer for the victims of the shooting. RELATED: 49 killed in mass shooting at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand Muhyiddin Sultan, who leads prayer a the Eugene Islamic Center, said he was in disbelief when he first heard about the shooting but said they can not live in fear. "As a Muslim community, as a Eugene community, all together we will support each other and we won't be in fear," Sultan said. READ MORE: Oregon beefing up security at mosques, hate-crime law Many people left behind flowers and gifts at the Islamic center to show support. Penny Campbell wrote messages of love on yellow strips of cloth and said she is worried something like what happened in New Zealand could happen here. "New Zealand means it could happen anywhere," Campbell said. "It means it's just right here ... it could happen in Eugene." Meanwhile, Eugene police said they will step up their patrols around the Eugene Islamic Center following the attacks in New Zealand. Police spokesperson Melinda McLaughlin announced the patrols late Friday morning. MORE: Eugene police patrol Islamic Center after New Zealand attack "Beat officers have been encouraged to stop by the mosque and connect with staff," she said. Supporters are planning a candlelight vigil outside the Eugene Islamic Center Friday night after the 7:30 prayer. Sultan said they are holding another event on Sunday at the Eugene Islamic Center, allowing people who couldn't make it on Friday afternoon to share their feelings. EUGENE, Ore. -- The Islamic community is still in mourning after a gunman in New Zealand opened fire on two mosques, killing at least 49 people and injuring 48 others. Here in Eugene, the Islamic Center was packed to capacity in a showing of love and support during this time of grief. This came just hours after others showed up in solidarity during Friday afternoon prayer. RELATED: EUGENE RALLIES AROUND MUSLIM COMMUNITY AFTER NEW ZEALAND ATTACK Members of the Eugene Islamic Center said seeing so many different faces, races and religions pack the halls of their Mosque this evening was not only heartwarming but something they'll never soon forget. On Friday night, the Islamic Center held a prayer for those lost in two shootings carried out in New Zealand and members of the Islamic faith weren't the only ones in attendance. "This is truly an inter-faith motion of solidarity," said Sarah Skochko, Intern Minister at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Eugene. "Trinity Methodist Church was here, Temple Beth Israel, someone from the Buddhist Temple was here this afternoon as well. So, the entire Eugene inter-faith community has come together to show their solidarity and their love for the Masjid." Dozens of bouquets and cards decorated their community area, and dozens of people joined in prayer and mourning. "We have to keep the faith that God is love and God is light, and hatred and fear will never overcome God," said a student leader at St. Thomas More Newman Center. Skochko said though she and others came out in a movement of solidarity and to offer protection, they themselves were moved by the amount of support by others in the Eugene community. "If even one person shows up to do the right thing, that would make my heart sing with joy," Skochko said. "Even one is enough. The fact that even more would show up does make me glad." Mejdi Aimeur, a member of the Eugene Islamic Center, said seeing their halls filled with love and kindness was moving. "I wasn't expecting this," Aimeur said. "It melts my heart to see all these people. Like I said, I was kinda scared this morning, but now I feel like, totally not even scared or nothing. I know I'm safe in this area." After prayers were held inside, a small candlelight vigil was held outside by members of the Eugene community in remembrance of those who lost their lives in New Zealand. SALEM, Ore. (AP) -- Police in Portland beefed up security Friday at places of worship after deadly attacks on two mosques in New Zealand, as an American Muslim group for called for political leaders to take steps to curb far-right extremism. The police in Portland said they were increasing their presence in light of the horrific attacks in New Zealand. Officers are providing extra patrols to faith-based locations throughout our city. We are also reaching out to the leaders of these communities to let them know we are here for them and they are supported and loved, the Portland Police Bureau tweeted. RELATED: Eugene police patrol Islamic Center after New Zealand attack Testimony this week on behalf of a bill in the Oregon Legislature that broadens a hate-crime law exposed many instances of bigotry in Oregon, which despite its progressive image has a history of racism. Demetria Hester, of the Portland suburb of Gresham, described to members of the Senate judiciary committee how she was riding Portlands light-rail in May 2017 when a white man began insulting her with racial slurs and assaulted her. None of the onlookers did anything, Hester said. The next day, the same man hurled abuse at two African-American girls on the light rail. Authorities say that when three passengers intervened, the man stabbed three of them, two fatally. He has pleaded not guilty to two counts of aggravated murder and other charges. When is this going to stop?, Hester asked the lawmakers on Tuesday. MORE: 49 killed in mass shooting at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand Another woman, of Laotian descent, described how her family left Portland for rural Aurora because it was getting too crowded - and how their mailbox was set on fire, their dog died after being poisoned, and white supremacist graffiti was written on the street in front of their house. The family suspected neighbors, but the sheriff said he could do nothing because there were no witnesses. The harassment stopped after the neighboring family moved away. A member of the judiciary committee, Sen. James Manning, D-Eugene, said symbols of intolerance have grown more discreet in many cases. The face of hate has gradually changed, said Manning, an African-American. It used to be rebel confederate flags on back of pickups. Now its large American flags on back of pickups. Each time I see one, I take notice. It makes me nervous. Benton County District Attorney John Haroldson, a member of Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblums task force on hate crimes, told the Senate panel that hate crimes are grossly underreported. Another member of the task force, Zakir Khan of the Oregon chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, described at the hearing how, two days after the fatal 2017 attack on the light rail, a black Muslim couple was accosted by a man who swerved his vehicle at them and told the woman to remove her burqa because this is America. They called 911 but no police were dispatched, Khan said. On Friday, Khan said his group grieves and stands in solidarity with the Muslim community in Christchurch, New Zealand. We are not looking for statements from political leadership at this point. We need to see action, he said in a statement. He said CAIR believes Congress must hold a hearing on the impact that far-right groups are having upon marginalized communities in Oregon and America and that the Oregon Legislature must fund and staff agencies that support hate crime survivors and counteract white supremacy. Rosenblum said Friday on Twitter that the attacks in New Zealand are crimes against humanity. We are committed here in Oregon to eliminating both. We must never give up. The Senate bill and proposed amendment would change existing law to refer to bias crime instead of intimidation, include a victims gender identity as a motive for an attack, turn a misdemeanor into a felony and direct the state justice department to study the enforcement of bias crime laws and how data on the crimes being committed is collected. EUGENE, Ore. -- Police on the University of Oregon and Portland State University campuses won't be able to patrol with guns if a proposed bill becomes law. Representative Diego Hernandez introduced the bill last month and worked with a student advocacy group to put it together. Kennedy Harris is one of many students who told KEZI 9 News she understands why students want this bill to become law but thinks there's a better option -- that will eliminate many of the issues students face -- that doesn't go straight to disarming police. They need to be less as a security blanket and more as a last resort, Harris said. Harris said there needs to be a shift in the way they're used so that minorities feel less threatened around armed officers and more protected. However, some students said police should be more worried about students' wellbeing and less concerned about guns being necessary. The University of Oregon Police Department gave KEZI 9 News a statement regarding the bill, saying: "This bill would harm the UO's ability to maintain a safe campus and deliver these important services for our students and the broader Eugene community." The first public hearing on this bill will be on March 21 at 1 p.m., and if it passes it would take effect on Jan. 1. The community of Skeoughvosteen have come together again in 2019 to promote and support the positive work of the Irish Cancer Society, in the format of Relay for Life Kilkenny 2019. Teamwork makes the dream work and Team Skeoughvosteen Alert is up and active again this year. Last year, through the generosity of this community our team donated 4,600 to the Irish Cancer Society. This money was used to provide free home-based night nurse services in Kilkenny and Carlow to those who needed end of life care. Funding was also given to cancer research, cancer prevention programmes and free phone cancer nurseline which is staffed by specially trained cancer nurses. This year Relay for Life Kilkenny will happen over a 24 hour period at the Rugby Club Kilkenny on July 20 and 21. Similar to last year, Team Skeoughvosteen Alert have agreed to provide a hospitality service at the venue through the 24 hours, running a sweet shop, coffee dock and cancer carers reception. We would love to hear from anybody in the community who is interested in joining us on this journey. The role we have taken on is very labour intensive, so any offer of people power, time, baking or donations would be really welcome. Contact any of the team members below or ring 087 3153427 and get Ready to Relay. Julia Murphy, Caithlin Brennan, Margaret Ryan, Mary T. Dalton, Kathleen Carroll, Ann OGrady, Mary Meany, Mary ONeill, Bernie Cleere, Bridie Lennon, Mary Cullen, Catherine Murphy, Joan Kelly, Julie Carroll, Brighid Cushen, Alice Power-Murphy, Peter Chap Cleere. Editor's Note: Get caught up in minutes with our speedy summary of today's must-read news stories and expert opinions that moved the precious metals and financial markets. Sign up here! Considering the impressive global equities recovery and rally resulting from bullish risk-on market sentiment, gold held up rather well this week. Even with yesterdays strong $13 plus decline, the precious yellow metal will end the week with modest gains. As of 3:30 PM Eastern standard time gold futures, basis the most active April contract is trading up $6.90 and fixed at $1302 per ounce. In fact, silver, platinum, and palladium are also all trading higher on the day. Although higher pricing across the board in the precious metals has been aided by tailwinds provided by a weaker U.S. dollar, it was the predominant bullish sentiment that resulted in traders bidding the precious metals higher today. Recently both gold and global equities have been moving in tandem to higher pricing based on accommodative statements made by the three most powerful central banks. The central banks of the United States, the European Union, and China, have all signaled a willingness to act against a global economic slowdown. The Federal Reserve and the European central bank have both indicated that they will not raise rates immediately. The European Union has gone as far as saying that there will not be any rate hikes until the end of the year, and the Fed has signaled that they will continue a path of patients regarding rate hikes. In the case of China, they are prepared to implement huge tax cuts and infrastructure spending. As reported in Reuters yesterday, China has promised billions of dollars in tax cuts and infrastructure spending to help businesses and protect jobs, as economic momentum is expected to cool further due to softer domestic demand and the trade war with the United States. Geopolitical Hotspots Continue or Emerge This week contained threats, actions and issues that have alarming and potential repercussions in the weeks ahead. These hotspots were global in nature as they involve North Korea, Great Britain and to a lesser extent New Zealand. A threat from North Koreas leader, and a cowardly heinous act by a group of individuals in New Zealand are the saddest and worst ways in which gold pricing can be supported. As reported in the New York Times today, North Korea threatened on Friday to suspend negotiations with the Trump administration over the Norths nuclear arms program and said its leader, Kim Jong-un, would soon decide whether to resume nuclear and missile tests. Then there is the heinous act committed by a group of individuals which resulted in a mass shooting which left at least 49 people dead at two mosques in New Zealand. Kick the can It seems there is a game played being quite effectively by politicians of by many countries. This game is known simply as, kick the can. The United States is undoubtedly one of the best at taking unsolved issues or financial budgets and simply moving the timeline, rather than being able to agree on a way to resolve the issues by making the needed hard choices. However, it was the United Kingdom this week that was able to duplicate a successful round of kick the can as they voted to ask for an extension on the March 29th deadline on Brexit. As reported by MarketWatch The British Parliament voted to request an extension of the March 29 Brexit deadline on Thursday, concluding key Brexit decisions for this week. The proposal, brought by the government, denotes an extension to June 30 if Parliament can agree on a withdrawal deal by March 20 -- next week Wednesday -- or else a longer extension. This has in turn led to speculation about whether Prime Minister Theresa May could put her deal to a vote for a third time next week. Collectively these fundamental factors, including a more accommodative stance by the three most powerful central banks, optimism on a resolution to the current trade U.S. - China trade war, the reemergence of threats from North Korea and Brexit, will most certainly have a strong impact on the financial markets next week. They most certainly could continue to create bullish market sentiment in global equities as well as gold pricing. For those who would like more information, simply use this link. Wishing you as always, good trading, Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. 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Otherwise, you may click here to disable notifications and hide this message. Nairobi, March 16: This flamboyant nine-metre-long dhow, made from 10 tonnes of plastic waste collected from Kenyan beaches and roadsides, sailed more than 500 km from the idyllic island of Lamu to Zanzibar this year with a message to eliminate single-use plastics. And it also reminds the global policy-makers the urgency to address and lessen the growing impact of plastics on the world's marine environment. The Flipflopi dhow was positioned right at the entrance of the conference venue in the UN Environment headquarters in Nairobi where over 4,700 delegates from 170 countries gathered for the week-long UN Environment Assembly, the world's highest-level decision-making body on the environment. "Marine plastic litter pollution is already affecting more than 800 marine species through ingestion, entanglement and habitat change," UN Environment's coral reef unit head Jerker Tamelander said. As World Wildlife Day 2019 Highlights 'Life Below Water' Theme, Here Are 5 Biggest Threats to Our Oceans and Marine Life! "Waste continues to leak from land and coral reefs are at the receiving end. They also trap a lot of fishing gear as well as plastic lost from aquaculture. With the impacts of climate change on coral reef ecosystems already significant, the additional threat of plastics must be taken seriously." The majority of marine litter - between 60-80 per cent - is composed of plastic. Global Warming at 1.5C: Rapid, Far-Reaching Changes Needed, Says IPCC. Boat made of plastic waste (Photo Credits: IANS Photo) Only nine per cent of the nine billion tonnes of plastic the world has so far produced has been recycled. The overwhelming majority of plastics - comprising drinking bottles, bottle caps, food wrappers, grocery bags, lids and straws - are designed to be thrown away after a single use, ultimately ending up in landfills and polluting the environment. "The first leg of the journey is over, but the journey continues," Kenyan entrepreneur and Flipflopi project leader Dipesh Pabari told reporters here. 4 Truths That Make Us Wonder Whether The Earth Will Survive 50 Years From Now. "When you are on the boat and you come to know that it's made from your toothbrushes and Pet bottles. You will ask how and that is the real story," he said. Coming from a family of carpenters and dhow builders in Lamu, an island off the North Coast of Kenya, Ali Skanda is intimately familiar with what goes into building a dhow - a sailboat that has been used in East Africa for more than a thousand years. On its maiden 500-km-long sojourn, supported by the UN Environment's Clean Seas campaign, the Flipflopi stopped at towns and cities to sensitize the communities on ways to cut down use of single-use plastics. A report, Plastics and Shallow Water Coral Reefs, released at this UN Environment Assembly, which focus on innovative solutions for environmental challenges, identifies a number of knowledge gaps that must be addressed to strengthen the scientific evidence base for action on marine plastics that impact coral reefs. 60 Percent of Earth's Wildlife Has Been Lost, We Are the 'Last Generation' That Can Save Nature, Says WWF. Inspired by 15-year-old Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, activist Rebecca Freitag, 26, a UN delegate for sustainable development from Germany, told IANS that the youth should be given participation in environment talks as they comprised 25 per cent of the global population. Before coming to the UN summit, she collected the plastic waste from roadsides of Kenya, which introduced the world's toughest laws on single-use plastic bags two years ago, and got her dress stitched to spotlight solutions for the growing impact of plastics on the world's marine environment. 6000 Endangered Fish Dies in China Due to Construction of Bridge; Work Halted. The Flipflopi is now ready for a voyage next month for a greater political and social awareness of the issue of plastic pollution. "Now we want to build a 20-m long boat that is capable of sailing to South Africa and beyond," Pabari said. For this, $1.5 million is required. The Flipflopi team has had to pioneer new techniques to craft the dhow's various components. The plastic waste was melted, shaped and carved by the team of traditional dhow builders exactly as they would do with wood. Every single element of the boat has been constructed by hand and the whole boat has been clad in colourful sheets of recycled flipflops. These flipflops have been collected on beach cleanups on Lamu's beaches, where they are among the most prolific items found. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 16, 2019 08:20 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Toronto, March 16: After more than two-decades of terror-attacks largely carried out by men and women espousing allegiance to Islamist terror groups, the world is now seeing another kind of terror attack that carried out by right-wing, neo-fascist supporters. With the Christchurch attack in which Brenton Tarrant, the terrorist published a 74-page manifesto proclaiming his crime and the principle guiding it, the world is now seeing the rise of extreme right-wing terrorism that directly relates to race. The right-wing, fascist ideology espouses that the state must "rid itself of the foreign elements that undermine it from within" so that the state can "provide for its rightful, natural citizens." This guiding principle shines through Brenton Tarrants manifesto which claims his intention of creating an atmosphere of fear against Muslims. The dossier states his objections to immigration and multiculturalism. He decries the "decaying" culture of the white, European, Western world and states that, The origins of my language is European, my culture is European, my political beliefs are European, my philosophical beliefs are European, my identity is European and, most importantly, my blood is European, it says. The Christchurch attacker also claimed he had been in contact with Anders Breivik, the Norwegian white supremacist who shot dead 77 people in Norway in 2011. Breiviks attack at the beginning of this decade was a sign that most countries in the West seemed to have missed as there have been other attacks carried out by right-wing fascist terrorists such as the Quebec City mosque attack as well as the Pittsburgh Synagogue attack. The Quebec City attacker, Alexandre Bissonnette reportedly targeted mosque-going Muslims after being enraged by the Canadian governments policy of welcoming Muslims refugees into the country. "The Canadian government was, you know, going to take in more refugees, you know, those who couldn't go to the United States would end up here," Bissonnette told Quebec City police Sgt. Steve Girard during his interrogation. "I just lost it." Similarly, the Pittsburgh shooter while opening fire inside the synagogue shouted All Jews must die as he carried out his carnage. The Pittsburgh shooting was preceded by the Charllottesville march which saw white-nationalists openly chant their right-wing extremist views. The Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism has reported that 71 percent of the extremist-related fatalities in the United States between 2008 and 2017 were committed by members of the far right or white-supremacist movements, as reported in The New York Times. This festering hate against the other, manifested by embracing white nationalism and a range of racist positions, as countries across the world become multicultural, poses a new security risk to populations every-where. Where hate such as this exists, no country is safe anymore. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 16, 2019 02:14 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Spring has arrived, and so have a slew of cultural happenings. Im Carolina A. Miranda, staff writer at the Los Angeles Times, with your weekly roundup of all things culture and Norwegian death metal: THE FUTURE OF LACMA Times art critic Christopher Knight reports and comments on changes at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art that will see the European and American art departments combined into one, a move unheard-of for a museum its size. The idea is to show LACMAs diverse art collections as changing, cross-cultural theme exhibitions, rather than as relatively permanent displays organized by department, he writes. Originally skeptical of the plan, Im less confident than ever. Baroque from Europe and Latin America hang together in To Rome and Back at LACMA. (Christopher Knight / Los Angeles Times) Advertisement Sign up for our weekly Essential Arts & Culture newsletter MUSICAL POETRY Poet Roger Bonair-Agard, steelpan player Andy Akiho, drummer Sean Dixon and cellist Jeffrey Zeigler have gotten together to form a rather indefinable poetry-and-music act called (M)iyamoto Is Black Enough. Times classical music critic Mark Swed says a recent performance at the Wallis was riveting, and incandescent in its synergy between music and poetry. "(M)iyamoto Is Black Enough on stage at the Wallis in Beverly Hills. (Lawrence K. Ho / The Wallis) During his recent jaunt through Europe, Swed also caught performances of a pair of operas in Germany that channel the Babylonian: Verdis Nabucco, staged by director Kirill Serebrennikov in Hamburg, and a production of Jorg Widmanns Babylon in Berlin. PLAYING NOW IN L.A. & NYC Times theater critic Charles McNulty has been doing the theater thing on two coasts. First up: Ruben Santiago-Hudsons theatrical memoir Lackawanna Blues at the Mark Taper Forum here in Los Angeles. The play has been transformed into a movie, but seeing it on stage is the most potent way to experience the story, writes McNulty, one that lovingly captures the customs of the community. Ruben Santiago-Hudson with guitarist Chris Thomas King in Lackawanna Blues. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) At New Yorks Lyceum Theatre, he took in a production of the new teen angst musical Be More Chill and its totally techno. Once a sanctuary from mindless technological hubbub, writes McNulty, the theater now seems compelled to compete with the flash and frenzy of our screen lives. And, of the Roundabout Theatre Companys new production of Kiss Me Kate, McNulty writes: No one is likely to go home feeling outraged or under-entertained. Yet some essential human chemistry is missing. ON STAGE Anna Zieglers Photograph 51 at South Coast Repertory is inspired by the life of Rosalind Franklin, the chemist whose work ultimately led to the discovery of DNAs double helix structure. Contributor Margaret Gray describes it as a stylish and informative production that examines the story of an overlooked woman in science. Take the 80s flick The Goonies and blend it with a Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale and you get The Old Man and the Moon, currently playing at the Wallis, writes F. Kathleen Foley. The show, she reports, is a charming original fable. Plus, The Times Daryl H. Miller profiles Inda Craig-Galvan, the L.A. playwright who penned Black Super Magic Mama, which was inspired by the killing of 12-year-old Tamir Rice by a police officer in Cleveland. My son was about that age at the time, she tells him. Its terrifying. Playwright Inda Craig-Galvan of Black Super Hero Magic Mama. (Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times) REVISITING MOCA Arata Isozaki, the Japanese architect who designed the Museum of Contemporary Art on Grand Avenue, won the Pritzker Prize last week. The timing couldnt have been better: MOCA director Klaus Biesenbach is currently on a mission to restore the buildings skylights, which were covered up years ago. This gave me a good opportunity to reconsider the museums unusual architecture: A little bit of wry Postmodernism in a buttoned-up late Modern complex that feels like someone slipped an asymmetrical, geometric-print shirt from the 80s underneath a beige, double-breasted suit. MOCA director Klaus Biesenbach before one of the museums pyramidal skylights. (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times) MEGA-CITY ONE New Yorks Hudson Yards, the largest mixed-use private real estate venture in the country, opened its doors to journalists and critics. And the reviews are fire! New York Times architecture critic Michael Kimmelman writes that the glassy complex glorifies a kind of surface spectacle as if the peak ambitions of city life were consuming luxury goods and enjoying a smooth, seductive, mindless materialism. Alexandra Lange, writing for Curbed, says: This is what you get when you let a private developer make a neighborhood theres no room for weirdness. Even if you hire different architects, their work comes out the same. Matt Shaw at the Architects Newspaper calls it Little Dubai. A worker cleans a spot on the floor during the grand opening of New York Citys Hudson Yards. (Drew Angerer / Getty Images) IN THE GALLERIES Sculptor Kenzi Shiokava has an exhibition of his sculptures and assemblages on view at the Ben Maltz Gallery. Contributor Leah Ollman writes that his reclaimed wood sculptures show how the act of salvage connotes not just material but spiritual renewal. She also reviews the work of William Downs at E.C. Lina gallery a series of ink drawings that cover the walls and create a scene that surges with sensuality. A Soft Place to Lay by William Downs, 2019. (Leah Ollman) Ollman also reviews David Hockneys show at L.A. Louver, which features recent paintings and large-scale photo composites. I may never have enjoyed Hockneys paintings more, she writes. I know Ive never appreciated his photographs less. Sharon Mizota, meanwhile, checks out the fascinating work of experimental filmmaker Sara Kathryn Arledge at the Armory Center for the Arts in Pasadena and Tsuyoshi Ozawas Jizoing at Blum & Poe in Culver City. The latter features photographs of the the Buddhist deity Jizo, the guardian of travelers, which can only be seen by climbing a pile of futons. Mizota also reviews the serene and nightmarish sculptures at Zevitas Marcus gallery from Rona Pondick, an artist who makes resin casts of her own head, then places them on tiny bodies. Magenta Swimming in Yellow by Rona Pondick, 2015-17. (Zevitas Marcus) IN GOLDEN HEALTH Sun Seekers: The Cure of California, a new book by Kyra Kilston, looks at how the early health aficionados who came to California helped shape the culture of the region evident in architecture by the likes of Richard Neutra and R.M. Schinder. In her review, Mizota describes Kilstons book as a work in which content and desire conspire to create a fascinating picture. The Lovell Health House, designed by Richard Neutra. (J. Paul Getty Trust) PASSAGES Okwui Enwezor, the influential curator who became the first African-born curator of the Venice Biennale and helped make art more global, has died at 55. And John Richardson, the art historian behind a renowned multivolume biography of Pablo Picasso, has died at 95. READY FOR THE WEEKEND Ive got the latest art listings in my weekly Datebook, including potent objects inspired by craft at Various Small Fires in Hollywood. F. Kathleen Foley rounds up whats happening on L.A.s small stages, including a fiercely slice-of-life look at the lives of girls. And Matt Cooper has the week ahead in art, music, dance and theater, as well as his weekend picks, which includes a dance performance by the Batsheva Dance Company. Batsheva Dance Company will perform Ohad Naharins Venezuela at Royce Hall. (Ascaf) IN OTHER NEWS... Otis College of Art and Design President Bruce W. Ferguson is leaving for undisclosed reasons. An online petition is calling on New Yorks Museum of Modern Art and trustee Larry Fink to divest from private prisons. CalArts students protest a hike in tuition. A Desert X installation by Eric N. Mack has disappeared. The secret work of land art in the California desert. The Getty Center will exhibit a painting by Willem De Kooning that was cut out of its frame during a heist in 1985. Artists Ron Athey, Carmen Argote and Diedrick Brackens are winners of Artadias 2019 Los Angeles awards. After many years and lawsuits, the half-built Target husk on Sunset Boulevard and Western Avenue will proceed. L.A. officials have broken ground on a people mover to LAX. A new doc on dancer Rudolf Nureyev is about to hit screens. An oratorio by a Berkeley composer pays tribute to Dreamers. AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST That sublime point where death metal, black metal and a comedian trolling a Norwegian record label intersect. British comedian and filmmaker Chris Morris has made a career of combining scathing comedy with news-worthy topicality. His 2010 film, the dark satire Four Lions, told the story of bumbling wanna-be jihadis in Britain. His newest film turns an eye toward government tracking of domestic terror in the U.S. The Day Shall Come, which premiered Monday at the South by Southwest Film Festival, is stingingly funny but also grounded in an emotional reality, both an absurdist satire of institutional power and a disturbing portrait of what happens to those unwittingly caught in its wake, overwhelmed by the machinery of government. In the movie, newcomer Marchant Davis plays Moses al Shabaz, self-styled sultan of the Star of Six Farm, a small mission in Miami that he runs with his wife Venus (Danielle Brooks) and their daughter Rosa (Calah Lane). Desperate for money to save the farm, Moses becomes involved in an increasingly complicated scheme that finds him going from low-level gun-running to potentially trading in nuclear materials. All of this is actually being orchestrated without his knowledge by the local office of the FBI, including agents played by Denis OHare and Anna Kendrick. Advertisement Morris, who co-wrote the screenplay with Succession creator Jesse Armstrong, based his storytelling on extensive research into real-life FBI counter-terrorism sting operations, most notably the Liberty City Seven case of seven men in Miami indicted for a plot to attack Chicago. A title card at the beginning of the film declares it is based on a hundred true stories. Its a comedy about injustice. Chris Morris on The Day Shall Come The movie is extremely dense with information and with language, at times challenging the audience to keep up. As Kendrick said in a Q&A after the premiere, To be honest, I think sometimes Chris is too smart for himself, even. On the morning after the screening, Morris sat down in Austin to talk about his process in creating the film, as well as his larger project and views on comedy in an age of absurdity. MORE SXSW: Us stars Lupita Nyongo and Winston Duke talk The Tethered and avoiding spoilers Chris Morris talking to the audience at the SXSW premiere of his film The Day Shall Come. (Matt Winkelmeyer / Getty Images for SXSW) MORE SXSW: Alice and For Sama take top prizes at South By Southwest Film Festival Do you feel like your work exists at some intersection of comedy and the news? What drives your interest in comedy that is so grounded in reality? Its hard to be objective about that because obviously from my point of view it exists in the most obvious place. But I think reality strikes you and then you respond to it. I mean, most reality is ridiculous in some way. Therefore, I think the only apparent contradiction is if you think that comedy might trivialize it. But then it depends whether the comedy is escaping the reality or driving into it. Like the examples about those FBI stings where they catch your attention because theyre so pushed. The people planning to launch a full-scale land war in the United States turns out to be seven construction workers riding into Chicago on horses. And the disparity between that, if you pull that apart, I thought it was funny on its face. And then there is the mechanism of how those guys ever came to be accused of that. And the fact that you can make people look guilty if you work hard enough and if they are fool enough to step through the hoops that you set up for them. And that becomes a bit surreal and therefore interesting because its kind of slightly boggling. You sort of think, right, theres something here. It feels like a comedy, but it lands. And so I guess thats a long-winded description of an intersection between two things. I like to feel theres a purpose to something because thats the only thing that can keep you getting out of bed in the morning for a long time. What would you feel is the purpose behind the story of The Day Shall Come? Well, there are a number. I think one nutshell, and I think theres a big bowl of nutshells. But one nutshell would be that its a comedy about injustice. So ones response is to do with the injustice of the way these things work, but also a fascination in the way these things work. So youre kind of dealing with a complicated granola of known and unknown ingredients. All of the different ways something can be interesting are part of the process, I suppose, to cross between studying something in the library and gross acts of attention-seeking. Somewhere on that line, I think comedy. So long as youre not throwing it away, it almost inevitably commits you to head into something serious or real because a joke wont work unless it seems to come from a real place. It has to touch some level of truth. So its quite a good way of revealing if something seems ridiculous in real life, like these FBI sting cases, thats a magnet that draws you into discovery. I suppose theres a discovery of a truth that perhaps drives it as well. But I think youre now asking to decode my own sort of sensory inputs, which could be a disaster. The film feels very volatile. Were you concerned with the racial politics of the movie, with the FBI targeting a minority group, and were you conscious of not wanting the movie to feel like it was punching down at the expense of Moses and his community? I think there are two separate things, so Ill deal with the one I understand better first and then come to the punching down thing. You see the Liberty City Seven news story you see how it really played out and what it really was. And then you follow all the other cases. You end up with a predominantly white, privileged institution picking on black and ethnic minorities. Thats just where you end up. You cant then distort the reality in a different direction. Thats where you have to be. And I feel that in terms of punching down, I dont feel the FBI are an easy target. But I think because of the power differential between the two groups of people in the film, because the government holds all the cards, you have to be punching up that way. Thats the direction in which the punch goes, isnt it? Its pretty unstinting in that regard. Because of course a government is a responsible institution for everybody in the country. So what the is it doing this for? Its not a responsible institution for some people in the country. And I did feel the difference between watching this film in Britain and here, because here there was a firing-line element, and its a firing line aimed at a kind of privilege, isnt it? Marchant Davis and Anna Kendrick at the SXSW premiere of The Day Shall Come. (Matt Winkelmeyer / Getty Images for SXSW) MORE SXSW: Long Shot rolls out Charlize Theron, Seth Rogen and a surprise Boyz II Men How do you feel about the current political moment in regard to satire? Both in the United States and the United Kingdom, where reality often seems absurd, do you have to make the ridiculous even more ridiculous to make comedy out of it? I dont think its the problem in pushing ridiculousness one notch further. I think what has disorientated the landscape a bit is the destabilization of a consensus. But I think thats just a boat rocking. It doesnt change the innate follies that are manifest in human nature. So as long as that doesnt run out, which should be pretty weird if it did, then theres always a revealingly comic angle. And I think a certain class of people who were involved in producing a certain angle of satirical work, actually were relying on very stable ground that wouldnt change. Of course, things do change and were living through a period of change. So you suddenly have to start thinking. And I think someone who was 25 hearing that question would just laugh contemptuously at the confused old folk stuck in the mud. So I think that whats happened is that a generation of people in middle age have found that the precepts have changed, therefore no comedy is ever possible anymore. But I kind of think the sky isnt falling on comedy yet. SIGN UP for the free Indie Focus movies newsletter Mark.Olsen@latimes.com Follow on Twitter: @IndieFocus At the beginning of Us, Jordan Peeles latest assault on your nerves and expectations, we learn that thousands of miles of empty tunnels abandoned train routes, mine shafts and the like run beneath the continental United States. If you still havent shaken off the spell of Get Out, Peeles wickedly sharp 2017 directing debut, you might be reminded of the sunken place, that surreal zone of physical and psychological paralysis that became a terrifying metaphor for black enslavement. Theres a different kind of sunken place in Us, but the less said about it the better, and not just because this movie cries out to be seen in as unspoiled a mindset as possible. The points of connection between Us and Get Out are worth acknowledging, though at the risk of overstating them. Once again, the director draws upon the sketch-comedy gifts he honed on Key & Peele to achieve an artful, ruthless balance of horror and hilarity. Us is a tour de force of comic tension and visceral release, a movie that weaponizes our chuckles against us and reminds us that laughing, screaming and thinking are not mutually exclusive pleasures. At the same time, Peele has no interest in exhausting the same bag of tricks. The twisted satire of racial animus that made Get Out such a conceptual triumph has no real equivalent here (it would hardly be as singular an achievement if it did). The fresh terrors that Peele inflicts on his protagonists a black family of four on a less-than-idyllic vacation in sunny California have nothing to do with the few white characters in their midst. The storys most disturbing implication, succinctly stated by its title, is that we are always our own worst enemy, susceptible to an evil that comes from within. Advertisement This is a troubling if hardly original notion, but the genius of Us is that it explores and sustains the conceit in a way that is both amusing in its literal-mindedness and thrilling in its imaginative energy. It begins with a chilling prologue set in 1986, when a young girl (Madison Curry) visits a Santa Cruz boardwalk carnival and is left unattended by her parents. She wanders down to the beach and into a funhouse of mirrors, where she has an unexplained encounter that leaves her deeply shaken. ALSO: Jordan Peele reveals the secrets of Us at South by Southwest The story proper begins three decades later, when the fully grown Adelaide Wilson (now played by Lupita Nyongo) heads back to Santa Cruz for a summer holiday with her family. Shes still reluctant to return to that fateful beach, but any lingering trauma remains hidden by a veil of suburban normalcy. Her husband, Gabe (Winston Duke), is an affable goofball. Their daughter, Zora (Shahadi Wright Joseph), is a moody adolescent and rising track star. Their young son, Jason (Evan Alex), is an odd duck and a bit of a loner, fond of playing creepy games and hiding behind a mask. The fun of this early stretch comes from watching the movie outline these characters (and set up future narrative payoffs with a few quick, incisive brushstrokes). It also comes from spotting the many cinematic references a kid in a mask named Jason, a Jaws T-shirt on a crowded beach from a filmmaker with an effortless command of the horror lexicon. By the time Peele unleashes his piece de resistance, your mind may race, as mine did, toward home-invasion thrillers such as Funny Games and doppelganger freakouts such as Invasion of the Body Snatchers. (The writer-director has claimed a classic episode of The Twilight Zone called Mirror Image as a key inspiration.) One night, the Wilsons are confronted by another family standing in the driveway of their vacation home, a family to whom they bear an unsettlingly perfect resemblance. Who are these strange, menacing doubles? Why are they wearing red coveralls and wielding very large, very sharp golden scissors? What exactly is Adelaides evil counterpart (the end credits name her Red, but I like to think of her as Badelaide) talking about when she speaks of shadows and untethering? Why does her halting, rasping delivery one of the creepiest aspects of Nyongos sensational performance sound like the voice of someone whose lungs have been crushed underfoot, who hasnt been able to breathe for years? Lupita Nyongo, Winston Duke, Evan Alex and Shahadi Wright Joseph in a scene from the movie Us. (Claudette Barius / Universal Pictures) Peele gets around to answering most of these questions, some more obliquely than others, and he gives this mind-bending scenario the moment-to-moment intensity and jolting humor of a George Romero-inspired nightmare. He also elaborates on, and refines, his thriller technique: If Get Out consisted of a few well-timed shocks en route to a Grand Guignol climax, then Us feels pure and relentless in its grisly B-movie mayhem. Watch the shadows skittering in the background of Peeles beautiful widescreen images, the way he uses razor-sharp cutting and an elegantly swerving camera to keep the worst just out of view. (The picture was shot by Mike Gioulakis and edited by Nicholas Monsour.) Like Get Out, Us is an experience of extraordinary dread-soaked momentum, even if Peele is still learning to differentiate between his A jolts and his B jolts. There are one or two moments when the terror and the comedy dont fuse so much as fight each other, as Peele (knowingly) pushes his characters panic beyond the limits of what we might call reasonable horror-movie stupidity. But beyond the jittery mechanics of attack and pursuit, what lingers is the unnerving intimacy of the whole situation, the terrible and mysterious sense of kinship that binds the Wilsons to their malevolent alter egos. The themes at play in this movie the return of the repressed, the duality of the self, the loss of personal identity are not particularly hard to grasp, but they are open to considerable interpretation. The closing twists, one of which is no less satisfying for being detectable a few minutes in advance, demand an immediate re-viewing. The all-American setting a beachside carnival under the California sun, a reference to the 1986 Hands Across America campaign might lead you to wonder if the movies title should be more accurately read as U.S. But if Peele is indicting a nations coddled middle-class complacency, he is also wise enough not to squeeze his vision into a strictly political reading. And in this he is indebted, more than anything, to the unerring skill and emotional expansiveness of his actors. They include Elisabeth Moss, pocketing a few superbly chilling scenes as a friend of the Wilsons hovering on the sidelines of their nightmare. Duke, so winning as MBaku in Black Panther, has fun playing the bumbling paternal doofus, while Wright Joseph and Alex establish a poignant bond as two bickering siblings brought together by the unthinkable. But the movie belongs rightly and effortlessly to Nyongo, and she sustains every moment by distilling innumerable emotional layers the unshakable resolve of a mother and wife, the stricken gaze of a trauma survivor, the lingering incomprehension of a lost child into a performance for the scream-queen history books. All of which would be mesmerizing even if Nyongo were not acting opposite a radically distinct version of herself, or so good at suggesting that the difference may not be so radical. There isnt a moment when she doesnt have Us in her grip. ------------ Us Rating: R, for violence/terror, and language Running time: 1 hour, 56 minutes Playing: Opens March 22 in general release justin.chang@latimes.com | Twitter: @JustinCChang Long before hits like Fixer Upper and Property Brothers, there was Trading Spaces, TLCs popular makeover show where pairs of neighbors swap homes and redo a room in each others home assisted by a designer, carpenter and a tight budget. Each episode ends with a reveal, and some tension-filled will they like it or will they hate it drama. The series returned last year following a 10-year hiatus and scored record ratings thanks, in part, to the return of original cast members like Vern Yip, Hildi Santo-Tomas, Frank Bielec, Douglas Wilson and carpenters Ty Pennington and Carter Oosterhouse. Set the DVR, because the new season starts today. Last year, we went behind the scenes of a makeover in Burbank that audiences will see this season and find out what twists are in store for viewers: Surrounded by cameras and the production crew, Steve Millunzi and his wife, Margi, were busy remaking the living room of their neighbors home in Burbank in a style they hope their neighbors will enjoy. It feels like Christmas, Steve said of being on the show, which returns for its 10th season on Saturday night. Its nice to have the time to spend on the house. Our television has been in a temporary place for six years. Advertisement As the shows female carpenter, Joanie Sprague said she hopes to encourage young girls. I want them to see me using my power tools and think, I want to do that, she said. (TLC) So whats new for 2019? An inflated budget, for one. While the show used to limit the fledgling designers to $1,000, that budget has now doubled to $2,000 which is a nice raise but still requires thrifty decision-making, which is really what the show is all about. You can still do a lot with little money, said the upbeat host, Paige Davis. Were trying to let people know that good design is attainable. Your house can be a springboard into a new life. But ultimately, Davis adds, contestants sign up for the show because they crave an adventure. You have to want to do it, she says. Even after our most infamous reveal aired, the homeowner said hed go through it again just for the experience. While the Millunzis were busy at work, a few doors down, their neighbors Jenny and Kash Kashola inspect lead designer Carter Oosterhouses paint choices for the Millunzis living room. Theyre obsessed with the 1970s, Kash says of his friends, so they hope their choices will be met with approval. (An announcement on a Burbank Moms Group Facebook page led them to try out for the show.) Carter Oosterhouse talks to Jenny and Kash Kashola during the paint reveal. (TLC) I want to do a fresher 70s, vibe, Oosterhouse explained. They have four kids. Lets figure out a way to make it a little more grownup. Instead of using avocado green, Im going to go for brighter colors and brown and brass accessories. Back in the shows early days, Oosterhouse said, it was like TV Design 101. No more. We live in an era where you can find anything online. And in Los Angeles, you can find great pieces from every era. A little love can go a long way I found things on Wayfair, Overstock, the Goodwill and estate sales. While Oosterhouse was implementing his color choices, designer Kahi Lee had instructed the Millunzis to paint the walls of the Kasholas living room white and slate blue. Unable to afford expensive vintage furnishings given the budget limitations, Lee bought Midcentury Modern-inspired furnishings and accessories at Walgreens, Target and Marshalls. She also added an 8-by-10 rug a must, she says that she bought for $125 from Wayfair. Pretty is pretty, Lee says of her inexpensive finds. While drapes were sewn on the set, or in this case, the backyard, Lee created things for free with paint stir sticks and cardboard fabric tubes from Home Fabrics in downtown Los Angeles. This being a television series about friends and neighbors, the shows trademark levity is genuine when the cameras arent rolling, even when things go wrong. Sometimes you have to make alterations, says producer Tess Gamboa. Even Vern, who is our most meticulous designer, has to make changes sometimes. Although makeover shows have increased in recent years, the premise behind Trading Spaces still resonates today because it is based on our universal attachment to our homes and our friends. Davis summed it up this way: We really want to inspire people to make a change. But did the Burbank neighbors create too much change for each other? Tune in Saturday to find out. Nearly 50 students at Harvard-Westlake School have been recently diagnosed with whooping cough, in an outbreak that has forced school officials to send students home at the first sign of illness. But all of the sick students had been vaccinated against the disease, according to school officials. In fact, all 90 people who have recently come down with pertussis the official name for whooping cough in Los Angeles County this year had been immunized against it, according to county officials. It turns out that four years after someone receives the booster shot in about the seventh grade, the vaccines protection nearly vanishes, endangering high schoolers such as those at Harvard-Westlake, said Dr. James Cherry, a UCLA expert on pediatric infectious diseases. It is not surprising at all, Cherry said of the recent cases. Advertisement The outbreak is a real-life example of something that experts have been noticing since doctors switched to a new form of the pertussis vaccine in 1997: Immunity wanes quickly. The pertussis outbreak raises questions about how to best administer a vaccine when its protection fades so quickly. People now in high school are one of the first generations to receive only the new, shorter-lived form of the vaccine, making them test cases for these problems. These recent whooping cough cases also serve as a contrast to the measles outbreaks across the country, which are mostly among people who declined vaccinations. In those cases, immunization probably would have prevented most of the illnesses. Whooping cough clusters Los Angeles County officials announced last month that there were three clusters of whooping cough cases among adolescents across the county. Forty-six students have been diagnosed with pertussis at Harvard-Westlake, where enrollment is about 1,600. Eighteen students there have not been vaccinated against pertussis, but none of them has caught the illness, school spokesman Ari Engelberg said. Ten students at St. Anastasia Catholic School in Westchester also caught pertussis. All had been vaccinated, according to school officials. Under California law, children must receive all of their doses of whooping cough vaccine to be allowed to attend school, unless they have a medical reason not to be vaccinated. By the time they turn 6, most children have received five doses of the diphtheria-tetanus-acellular-pertussis vaccine, or DTaP. Then they must get a booster before entering seventh grade. The immunizations are concentrated in the earliest years of life because babies are the most likely to die from whooping cough, named for the sound people make when theyre gasping for air. Deaths virtually all occur in the first two months of life, Cherry said. But studies have found that immunity drops quickly after getting the shot. One study from Kaiser Permanente found that protection fell an average of 42% a year after the last childhood dose at about age 6. The rapidly waning immunity is linked to the kind of vaccine children receive, experts say. Before 1997, children received a form known as whole cell, which sometimes caused side effects, such as convulsions and severe fevers. So officials switched to the current acellular vaccine, which has fewer side effects but does not provide immunity for as long. Even the middle school booster, intended to extend immunity, protects about 80% of people who receive it for about a year but mostly stops providing immunity after that, another Kaiser study found. L.A. County public health officials said the recent cases may be focused in young adults because they are more susceptible to the illness because they received only the acellular vaccine. There is no increase in the current overall number of cases compared to past years, but the number of reported clusters has risen in 11- to 18-year-olds, officials said in a statement to The Times. Waning immunity is a well-recognized phenomenon [and] seems to be the most plausible explanation for the recent clusters seen by the department. Some scientists have suggested that it would make more sense to administer the vaccine in a targeted fashion, such as before an outbreak or when one has just begun. But Dr. Armand Dorian, chief medical officer at USC Verdugo Hills Hospital, said waiting to administer it when an outbreak has begun doesnt make sense. At that point, antibiotics are needed. Its too late to do brush clearance. You have to come in with a helicopter and douse a fire, he said. Dorian said that even though the vaccines immunity wanes, increasing coverage rates in the community would help prevent pertussis outbreaks. In the 2017-2018 school year, 96% of kindergartners had all their doses of the pertussis vaccine and 98% of seventh-graders had received the booster, according to state data. Both of those percentages dropped slightly from the previous school year. Doctors recommend that pregnant mothers get an additional dose of the vaccine so they can protect their newborns. But only 52% of new mothers in 2016 were vaccinated, according to a report from the California Department of Public Health. If vaccination rates were higher, Dorian said, pertussis would not be able to enter a community in the first place. The bacteria is much more likely to spread among people who have not been vaccinated. People who have been vaccinated and still get pertussis also contract a less severe form of the illness that is likely to be less contagious. So its possible that the recent outbreaks originated with someone who had not been immunized, even though the disease is now spreading among people who have been vaccinated, Dorian said. Once theres a chink in the armor and that unvaccinated population grows, then the actual protection of the vaccination significantly drops, even for those who are vaccinated, he said. The real concern now is that a baby could contract whooping cough. Pertussis kills about 20 people in the United States each year, almost all of them infants. The last person to die from pertussis in California was a baby in San Bernardino County in 2018. Its a cough, a whooping cough, which means it loves to spread, Dorian said. soumya.karlamangla@latimes.com Twitter: @skarlamangla A college student from Palos Verdes Estates who was acquitted last year in a South Los Angeles killing has been charged with armed carjacking and robbery in juvenile court, authorities said. Cameron Terrell, 19, appeared in court Friday and denied the charges, a spokesman for the Los Angeles County district attorneys office said. The spokesman did not provide additional information about the charges. Terrell, who was arrested Tuesday night, was ordered detained by a judge and is due back in court Wednesday. While Los Angeles Police Department detectives were investigating the Oct. 1, 2017, killing of 21-year-old Justin Holmes, they came across evidence linking Terrell to possible additional crimes, police said in a statement this week. Police said the suspected crimes could not be charged concurrently with the murder case. Advertisement Police declined to release details about the suspected crimes, which they said occurred when Terrell was a juvenile. Earlier this week when Terrell was arrested, his attorney, Jovan Blacknell, said the charges stem from before the 2017 killing. When the homicide did not stick, they tried to find something else, Blacknell said. He said the arrest was timed to disrupt Terrells schooling. In July, a jury found Terrell not guilty of murder in the killing of Holmes, prompting questions about how race and privilege may have influenced jurors perception of Terrell, who is white. When Terrell was first arrested, he and his family were able to post the $5-million bond, which required $500,000. While the case was pending, he was able to finish high school. On the day of the killing, Holmes was walking with two friends near South Western Avenue and West 78th Street when two teenagers got out of Terrells black Mercedes-Benz and asked about their gang affiliation. The two people with Holmes ran. Holmes, who worked for U-Haul, told the teens he wasnt in a gang. One of the teenagers shot Holmes, then ran to the car, registered to Terrells father, authorities said. Much of the trial testimony focused on Terrells gang affiliation and his actions after the killing, which included appearing in a cellphone video flashing gang signs and another video he made later of people at the crime scene kicking over candles placed there in memory of Holmes. His defense attorney framed the case as a situation in which Terrell began associating with gang members and became fascinated with gang life. Terrell didnt know the intent of his teenage friends that day, Blacknell said. Prosecutors said Terrell was devoted to the gang and got a tattoo to prove his allegiance. In court, prosecutors displayed videos and photographs of Terrell at gang parties, flashing gang signs and weapons. The murder case against the two other teens is pending. After Terrells acquittal, his attorney said his client was going to attend the University of Houston. On Friday, Blacknell said the issue of how Terrell will be detained has not been settled. He said the court has a variety of options including electronic monitoring and home probation. A priority should be to not derail his education and get him back in school and away from negative influences, he said. nicole.santacruz@latimes.com For more crime news, follow @nicolesantacruz on Twitter. The worshipers sat in rows inside the mosque, the men in the front and women behind. Dozens of believers of other faiths settled in between. Hundreds of Muslims, Jews, Christians and Sikhs gathered at the Islamic Center of Southern California on Friday for prayers, some hoping to find the guidance needed to help make sense of the violence that had killed so many of their fellow faithful nearly 7,000 miles away. The ugliness of what unfolded cannot be missed, Khaled Abou El Fadl told the crowd. They are us. It could have been us. At least 49 people were shot to death at two mosques during midday prayers in Christchurch, New Zealand, on Friday gunned down by a white supremacist who broadcast the massacre live on Facebook. Advertisement The terrorist attack sent ripples of fear throughout the Muslim community in Southern California and led police to ramp up their presence outside mosques. A handful of LAPD officers guarded the Islamic Center during prayers alongside private security and sheriffs deputies. The violence also spawned calls for unity and solidarity with Muslims across the globe. In his khutbah, or sermon, Abou El Fadl decried the growth of Islamophobia as he clutched a copy of the shooters 74-page manifesto. A law professor at UCLA, Abou El Fadl had been invited to speak to Islamic center members during Friday prayers. Islamophobia has taught everyone that we Muslims do not embrace a religion, but rather, an ideology, he said with force. That we love to hate, rather than love to love. Blasting the gunman as an immoral idiot, Abou El Fadl slammed the political environment that has provided a steady drumbeat of hateful language that has made your sons and daughters so uncomfortable in school that they often try to conceal that they are Muslim. Twenty minutes later, his speech gave way to prayer. As the congregants knelt and bowed their heads, they made one final invocation: Janazah, the Islamic funeral prayer, uttered for the souls lost in Christchurch. Reactions from Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti and the Islamic Center of Southern California on mass shooting. In a news conference before Jumuah prayers, LAPD Chief Michel Moore, Mayor Eric Garcetti and faith leaders called on communities to stand up against hate. Nearly 100 people packed into the back of the room, some holding signs with messages like We are one scrawled in Hebrew. We are a city that is called the city of angels, and today I feel those wings stretched out, Garcetti said. But our angels weep today as well for our brothers and sisters in New Zealand. The fallout from the violence is about more than one incident it is about a growing threat of white supremacy, said Salam Al-Marayati, founder of the Muslim Public Affairs Council. Imagine if you will that you are ready to bow and kneel for prayer, but instead of receiving the blessings that are showered upon you, you are sprayed with bullets, Al-Marayati said. We finally said it is terrorism, he added. Thats right, the crowd replied. Some nodded. Rabbi Sharon Brous said she stood with all people who have been targeted for their faith, race or ethnicity. We have witnessed as your faith has been mocked and desecrated for political gain, as your bodies and your holy sites have been threatened, she said. Enough is enough. Tears welled in Najeeba Syeeds eyes as she listened. As a mother, she said, her mind immediately went to her children and how to explain the violence. It felt like this whole act was to dehumanize the community, to approach it like we were characters in a video game, Syeed, 45, said. Its important, she said, to ensure children feel comfortable with their identity and proud of who they are. Muslims and people of all faiths come together in prayer at the Islamic Center of Southern California. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) In Long Beach, Mayor Robert Garcia, Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn and other public officials joined the congregation at the citys Islamic Center on Friday afternoon in a similar show of solidarity. Mohammed Alrawi said looking around at the gathered crowd that included people of different faiths and ethnicities was a comforting antidote after reading a racist manifesto the killer is thought to have written. It reaffirmed the hope that we are a nation of love, not one of hate, he said. For some, the attack was less of a surprise and more of an inevitability at a time when mass shootings seem to regularly punctuate the news. I dont want to sound like Im numb, but its not like, Oh, my God, a white nationalist went into a mosque and shot and killed people, said Marc Manley, imam at Middle Ground Muslim Center in Upland. Manley said he felt conflicted about discussing the shooting during Friday prayers, which he uses as a time to lift peoples spirits. You cant really address a complicated issue like this in 20 minutes, he said. Omar Ricci couldnt shake the thought that as the observant in his mosque prepared to pray, they were in the same position as the victims in Christchurch, at the same time of day that they lost their lives. The congregants in Christchurch were seeking spiritual solace the way they did every Friday, Ricci said. They were attacked when they were most vulnerable. The very first texts I got today were, Is there going to be extra security at the mosque? said Ricci, chair of the Islamic Center of Southern California. Were all going through it. The recent controversy over a spike in pepper spray use at Los Angeles Countys juvenile detention facilities has sent officials scrambling to compile and release a cache of internal use-of-force data to satisfy calls for transparency. That finally happened last week. The nations largest juvenile detention operation posted to its website new statistical information that offers a clearer public picture of the treatment and demographic makeup of the roughly 800 youths in its facilities and county officials held a public hearing Saturday afternoon in Carson to discuss the information. But some observers wonder: Can the county Probation Departments data be trusted? A report released this month by the countys Office of Inspector General raises fundamental questions about the departments record-keeping tools and practices. Advertisement That has prompted questions by the Board of Supervisors and other outside observers about efforts to transform the troubled departments policies on numerous issues, including the type of force used on unruly juveniles and frequency of violence against detention officers and other staff. Any conclusions that can be reached are only as reliable as the data itself, the countys interim inspector general, Rod Castro-Silva, told an audience of local juvenile justice employees and observers Saturday. The report and its recommendations are the latest development in a months-long spurt of controversy prompted by a surge in the use of oleoresin capsicum, commonly known as pepper spray, on detainees by officers. The Board of Supervisors decided last month to ban its use in juvenile detention facilities by the end of the year. Although originally commissioned to be an update for the supervisors on the use of pepper spray, the report instead focuses considerably on how the Probation Departments staff collects, maintains and assesses information about what happens in its juvenile halls and camps. Noting inaccurate or incomplete reporting, and a system hampered by both process and technology, the report summarizes the concerns in one passage: As a result, the data may be unreliable. That assessment has overshadowed some relatively positive news for the department. According to the use-of-force data released last week, there has been a statistical leveling off of incidents in which detention officers use pepper spray to maintain control of youths. After cases more than doubled from 2015 to 2017, pepper spray use declined by 15% last year, according to the data the department released last week. Though when accounting for the declining population of juvenile detainees, the rate of pepper spray use statistically remained about the same from 2017 to 2018, the records show. In response to the increase in pepper spray use, the Board of Supervisors voted for the phased elimination of the spray after 2019. Probation officials are, in the meantime, studying methods to eliminate the tool without threatening the safety of detention officers or the juveniles. One of the first department changes since the ban was to make annual data about the use of force by officers available online. In a letter last week, a group of juvenile justice reform groups including the ACLU of Southern California, the Childrens Defense Fund and the Youth Justice Coalition urged county officials to make weekly spray statistics available for the rest of the year so the public can track its use as the ban deadline approaches. Plenty of department observers remain skeptical, though. Even something as basic as looking at trends can be a challenge, said Cyn Yamashiro, a lawyer and juvenile justice expert appointed to the countys Probation Reform and Implementation Team, a committee studying ways to improve civilian oversight of the department. They know there are underlying flaws in the reporting process itself. The team took testimony from the public about improving safety for juveniles and their detention officers. The questions about the departments data also follow a report in The Times in late February that highlighted violence by youths against detention staff. Citing department data released the same month under the California Public Records Act, the story reported an increase in assaults on staff during the last four years, in part validating complaints about tense working conditions prompting a rise of pepper spray use. But in a letter to the Board of Supervisors in late February, Castro-Silva cast doubt about the reliability of that data. Read the OIG report: We have little to no confidence in the reliability of the data on assaults He argues that detention staff who reported assaults received insufficient guidance on how to define and report the cases uniformly, leading to discrepancies from facility to facility. The investigators also found purported assaults in which the staffs written narratives didnt match video footage. The Probation Department has said it believes the data on youth-on-officer assaults were accurately tabulated from its records. Still, the departments top officials have pledged to improve. Chief Probation Officer Terri McDonald told the supervisors in February that some of her employees really struggle with data and she welcomed outside help. I think we have a lot to do as a county family looking at data. And weve been working on it, she said. But its one in which I really think we would benefit from somebody working with us and looking independently. The inspector generals report praised the departments efforts to be more transparent. Still, the uncertainty about the departments information makes tackling its problems more difficult, some supervisors say. This is unacceptable, said Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas, who has spearheaded the scrutiny of pepper spray use. We need credible baseline data to track the progress of reform. After the end of this month, Yatta Kiazolu will be eligible for deportation to a country where she never has lived. The 28-year-old PhD candidate in history at UCLA was born in Botswana to Liberian parents. She has lived in the U.S. since she was 7 and since 2002 has maintained legal authorization under a humanitarian relief program. President Trump moved to end deferred enforced departure for Liberians last year, saying that the country is no longer mired in armed conflict and has sufficiently recovered from the 2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa. More than 350,000 Liberians were displaced by civil war and fled the country. The program is set to end March 31, leaving an estimated 4,000 people vulnerable to deportation. Though DED bears a strong resemblance to temporary protected status another humanitarian program facing termination that would affect some 400,000 immigrants it has largely been left out of the national conversation. Advertisement Civil rights advocates sued the Trump administration this month over the programs termination, calling it racially motivated. Kiazolu, one of the plaintiffs, also testified before Congress about how the programs end will affect her. My grandmother used to say, When you do good, you dont do it for yourself you do it for God. And with that philosophy as my personal mantra, though the majority of my family are now permanent residents and U.S. citizens, Im here for all the working-class immigrants on DED, TPS and [who] are also Dream-eligible, she told the House Judiciary Committee on March 6, referring to protections for immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally as children. Im here for all the young people like myself who have anxiety about their futures. Liberia experienced two nearly back-to-back civil wars from 1989, the year before Kiazolu was born, to 2003. Since 1991, the country has continually been designated for either TPS or DED at alternating points by Democratic and Republican administrations alike. Its also the only country designated for DED, though citizens of China, El Salvador, the Persian Gulf region and Haiti have all previously received protections. Like TPS, the program allows people from countries devastated by natural disasters or war to work legally while they remain in the U.S. But unlike TPS, which is designated by the secretary of Homeland Security, DED is designated at the discretion of the president. The lawsuit was filed on behalf of 15 Liberians and their U.S. citizen children, as well as two advocacy organizations for black immigrants. Lawyers called the termination of protections unconstitutional and asked that the court prevent Trump from ending the program for Liberians. At every turn with this administration, we have seen immigration policies that are driven by racial animus, said Kristen Clarke, executive director of the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, one of the groups suing. The Homeland Security and Justice departments declined to comment, each agency referring a Times reporter to the other. The White House did not respond to a request for comment. Lawyers cited Ramos vs. Nielsen, the lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in San Francisco over the Trump administrations termination of TPS for immigrants from El Salvador, Haiti, Nicaragua and Sudan. Lawyers in that case similarly alleged that government officials approached their decision to end TPS with a political agenda, ignored facts and were motivated by racism. Internal documents capture Trump administration debate about ending temporary immigrant protections Liberias history is rooted in U.S. slavery and colonialism. Thousands of freed slaves were sent to Africa before the Civil War. Many eventually settled in what would become Liberia. Kiazolu, the UCLA student, has ancestors who were enslaved in South Carolina. Lawyers said conditions in Liberia justify an extension of DED, referencing a 2017 State Department report detailing human rights abuses including extrajudicial killings, police abuse, official corruption, female genital mutilation, criminalization of same-sex conduct and a culture of impunity. The country is one of the worlds poorest: Remittances in 2016 accounted for nearly one-third of its gross domestic product. Other plaintiffs include a nursing assistant in Minnesota who fled Liberia during the civil war after her family members were jailed, disappeared, shot and attacked; and a healthcare worker in Massachusetts who has lived in the U.S. for 20 years and has six children who have never visited their fathers home country. The children of Liberians face an unreasonable decision, lawyers say. Liberian law forbids dual citizenship, so if forced to relocate with their parents, the children would have to renounce their U.S. citizenship to legally work and access other rights granted to Liberian citizens. For these U.S. citizen children, the Trump administration has set up an impossible and unconstitutional choice: lose your parents or lose your citizenship, the lawsuit states. Advocates mobilized before Trump announced that he would terminate DED in March 2018, urging legislative and Liberian Embassy leaders to speak out. At that time, members of Congress issued a letter urging Trump to extend the program for at least another three years. This month, 50 members of Congress sent another letter urging him to reinstate the program. Weve seen a twofold strategy from this administration one is escalating enforcement against undocumented immigrants, said Amaha Kassa, executive director of African Communities Together. I think its gotten less attention that the administration has moved to cut off programs that allow people to come to the country legally or remain in the country legally. Kiazolu is set to graduate this fall. Administrators havent been able to tell her what could happen to her research funding or whether shell even be able to remain a student. Without permission to work, she doesnt know how shed pay back her student loans. Unsure of how to prepare, she has continued her regular routine, spending most days working on her dissertation about how black women in the U.S. and in Africa collaborated during the 20th century on issues of womens and civil rights. Kiazolus father was working for the United Nations in Botswana when she was born, a year after the war started. When he got a job in Liberia in 1997, the war was still raging. Fearing for their safety, her mother sent her to live with her grandmother in Decatur, Ga., and followed shortly after. Kiazolu has no other paths to legal authorization. At 21, she aged out of qualifying for permanent residency through her U.S. citizen grandmother. Her stepfather, also a citizen, applied for her in 2016, but there is a years-long wait. Her application was never chosen for a diversity visa, which are drawn randomly for people from countries with low rates of immigration to the U.S. She also doesnt qualify for a student visa, for which applicants must demonstrate strong ties to their home country. Her dream is to graduate and become a teacher in the country she knows as home. Its hard to think about, she said of her potential deportation. Im obviously proud of my heritage and family, but what are people really asking of me in this situation? Its just wild and immoral. andrea.castillo@latimes.com | Twitter: @andreamcastillo One of Elisabeth Semels earliest memories of the death penalty in California was the 1960 execution of Caryl Chessman. She remembers seeing her father upset. She became a criminal defense lawyer and went on to defend inmates convicted of capital crimes, running a death penalty clinic at UC Berkeley. Kent Scheidegger, a former commercial lawyer, was inspired to join the fight for the death penalty after voters ousted California Chief Justice Rose Bird and two colleagues in 1986 for overturning death sentences. He said the courts were thwarting the peoples will and he joined a pro-death penalty group to persuade judges to uphold death sentences. Advertisement Advocates and others on both sides went on to endure decades of frustration in Californias wrenching wars over the death penalty. READ MORE: These are the 737 inmates on Californias death row This week, Gov. Gavin Newsom put his own imprint on the saga, declaring a moratorium on executions while he was in office. But the death penalty remains lawful in California, and neither side is ready yet to lay down arms. The battle started with a 1972 California Supreme Court decision that declared the states death penalty unconstitutional. The decision spared the lives of Charles Manson, Sirhan Sirhan and more than 100 others. Supporters of the death penalty gradually resurrected the law to pass constitutional muster, and California juries have condemned scores of people to die. Bird and two other Democratic appointees to the Supreme Court were replaced with conservatives, and the newly formed court routinely upheld death sentences. Stanley Tookie Williams, a former L.A. gang leader convicted of killing four people, was executed despite pleas from activists including actor Mike Farrell. In prison he wrote books urging young people to reject gangs. (Associated Press) The states execution logjam broke with the 1992 lethal gassing of Robert Alton Harris, who had killed two teenage boys in San Diego. It was the states first execution in 25 years. Another death row inmate, David Mason, was executed in the gas chamber the following year. Then a federal court decision in 1996 forced the state to close the gas chamber and execute by lethal injection. Later that year, serial killer William Bonin died by the needle, four years after Harris. Executions continued sporadically. By the time Republican appointee Ronald M. George was Californias chief justice, there was a massive backlog of death penalty appeals. The cost to the state of trying the cases and handling the appeals was crushing. George, a former prosecutor who had previously defended Californias death penalty, declared the system dysfunctional. An inmate on death row was more likely to die from old age than execution, he said. In all, 13 inmates have been executed in California since the restoration of the death penalty. More than 100 condemned inmates have died of natural causes or suicide during that time. A state commission determined that the death penalty would work in California only if the state put in a massive infusion of money. No one seemed inclined to provide that kind of money, but the death penalty remained on the books and death row began running out of room. Actor Mike Farrell, a death penalty abolitionist, spent many execution nights outside San Quentin State Prison as peaceful protesters held candles and sang hymns. He met with two California death row inmates before their executions, including Stanley Tookie Williams in 2005. Actor and anti-death penalty activist Mike Farrell speaking at a 2016 news conference in support of Proposition 62, which would have outlawed capital punishment in California. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) Williams, a former Los Angeles gang leader, was convicted of killing four people. In prison he wrote books for young people urging them to eschew gangs. Farrell also met with then-Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, another actor, to plead for Williams life. I just dont understand the point in killing this man, Farrell recalled telling Schwarzenegger. If you commit him to life in prison without parole, he can keep doing the work he is doing with kids. Schwarzenegger said Williams had to admit guilt and express remorse, Farrell said. Williams insisted he did not commit the murders and died by lethal injection. Another inmate was executed before a federal judge in Northern California decided in 2006 that the states three-drug method of execution violated the U.S. Constitution. The lethal cocktail exposed inmates to the risk of cruel and unusual suffering, the judge found. No one has been executed in California since that decision. We would have had 20 executions between then and now had it not been for that ruling, Scheidegger said. READ MORE: Gov. Gavin Newsoms opposition to the death penalty appears destined for a test Supporters of capital punishment managed in recent years to defeat two ballot measures to abolish the death penalty and won narrow passage in 2016 of a measure intended to speed up executions. Gov. Jerry Brown, who personally opposes the death penalty, played no role in the campaigns. His last two terms in office exasperated both supporters and opponents of capital punishment. Scheidegger said he believed that Brown, who as governor oversaw the department in charge of executions, stymied their resumption by moving extremely slowly to devise an execution protocol. At one point, Scheidegger sued Brown to force action. Semel called those years a time of deep disappointment. Both Brown and Atty. Gen. Kamala Harris, now a candidate for president, said they personally opposed the death penalty but didnt do anything about it, Semel said. Those are the things that stick with me, she said. Gov. Gavin Newsom at a news conference Wednesday announcing a moratorium on Californias death penalty. (Justin Sullivan / Getty Images) On Monday, Farrell went to Sacramento to meet with Newsom and other opponents of the death penalty. This is what I am going to do, he said Newsom told the group. Newsom said he would meet with capital punishment supporters to discuss his plans the following day. Farrell told the governor his decision was true heroism. Most of the governors who do this sort of thing do it at the end of their terms, not at at the beginning, Farrell said. He said, No, this is the right time. I was blown away. News broke late Tuesday that Newsom was using his power of reprieve to place a moratorium on executions. Scheidegger was livid. He agreed that Newsom had the right to grant reprieves to condemned inmates, but accused him of flagrantly violating the law by withdrawing an execution protocol and shutting down the death chamber. Sacramento County Dist. Atty. Anne Marie Schubert, who had campaigned to keep the death penalty and speed it up, said that when she heard the news she thought of a mother whose young son was tortured and sodomized for 10 hours before he was stabbed more than 40 times. His killer was on death row. She also thought of Marc Klass, who has waited a quarter of a century to see the killer of his daughter, Polly, 12, executed. Newsom gave him less than 24 hours notice of his decision, Schubert said Farrell watched Newsoms news conference on television. He said he cried. maura.dolan@latimes.com Twitter: @mauradolan The abrupt arrival of thousands of electric scooters in Los Angeles last year has already forced public, sometimes ugly, disagreements about how the citys street and sidewalk space should be used. As Los Angeles prepares to launch a one-year program legalizing the vehicles, theyre now sparking a fight about data privacy. Under new city rules, every company with a permit to rent out scooters or shared bicycles must send data to transportation officials on every trip the vehicles make. That location data will help the city determine which companies are flouting new operating rules that cap the number of vehicles and restrict where they can be parked, officials said. Tracking them electronically will also be faster and cheaper than paying employees to look for rogue vehicles blocking sidewalks or wheelchair ramps. Advertisement The public has to be reassured that there is somebody who is keeping a close eye, said Seleta Reynolds, the Transportation Departments general manager, who is overseeing the initiative. The trouble is, opponents say, Los Angeles wants to keep too close an eye. Uber, which operates Jump scooters, and several data privacy organizations have said the citys policy constitutes government surveillance, and would yield far more information about bicyclists and scooter riders than is available for drivers or transit commuters. Many scooter trips in Los Angeles are tourist joyrides, but public officials say the zippy, electric devices could become a meaningful transportation alternative that helps commuters get to transit stops and run errands without driving. The city will require companies to share information on the start point, end point and travel time of each bike or scooter trip within 24 hours after it ends, and whether the vehicle entered zones where riding or parking are restricted. The data would not include a riders name, but even in sprawling metropolitan areas, paths between home, work and school are typically unique, experts say. Someone with basic coding skills and access to the data could easily connect a trip to an individual person. This data is incredibly, incredibly sensitive, said Jeremy Gillula, the technology projects director for the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a San Francisco-based digital rights group. The vast trove of information could reveal many personal details of regular riders such as whom theyre dating and where they worship and could be misused if it fell into the wrong hands, the nonprofit Center for Democracy and Technology told the city in a letter. The New York Times recently analyzed a database containing the movements of more than 1 million cellphones, and easily identified individual people, including an aide to New York Mayor Bill DeBlasio and a middle school teacher whose phone reported her home address, her workplace and the location of her Weight Watchers meetings. The scooter and bicycle data will be classified as sensitive and confidential, which means information on individual rides will not be published on the citys open data website or subject to public records requests, Reynolds said. The data would be provided to police officers with a warrant, and could be revealed in response to a subpoena, the city said. Some form of the data will also be shared with other city agencies at the level of aggregation that we think they need, Reynolds said, including city planners and the sanitation workers tasked with removing scooters from sidewalks, wheelchair ramps and other rights-of-way. Uber spokesman Davis White said the city has not answered fundamental questions about how the city will safeguard the data. Uber is willing to share some data with L.A., he said, so long as user privacy is protected. The city has urged California regulators to adopt a similar model for trips made in Uber and Lyft cars, which would reveal vast amounts of information on the companies operations statewide data cities badly want to review, but that the companies have jealously guarded. The dispute highlights the lack of trust between cities and transportation companies that have typically moved into new markets without asking permission, working with local officials or sharing details on their operations. I would trust Uber as far as I could throw one of their cars, and you can quote me on that, Gillula said. But that doesnt mean their concerns are without merit, he added. The city plans to require companies to submit ride data starting April 15. Uber is pushing for a model that would require the companies to share less detailed information, and has urged the Transportation Department to submit the plan to the City Council for debate. Allowing companies to summarize their own data is akin to letting the fox watch the hen house, Reynolds said, adding that she is somewhat skeptical that the companies would provide accurate information on their own. Uber infamously used a program called Greyball that served up a fake version of the ride-hailing app to regulatory officials to stymie enforcement efforts. Seattle, which had an early study of bike-share data, found that the companies self-reported data had a high margin of error, Reynolds said. Aggregated data could also pose problems for L.A.s pilot program, which caps companies at 3,000 scooters or bikes citywide, but offers a bonus of up to 7,500 more if they are deployed in low-income neighborhoods, she said. Tracking that compliance will require granular data that is defensible and credible. None of the things theyve outlined in terms of transportation planning, or enforcement, or oversight requires keeping a record of where everyone has traveled, said Kevin Webb, the co-director of Shared Streets, a nonprofit organization that helps cities and companies share transportation data, and that has accepted funding from Uber and Lyft. One option, he said, would be to create a confidential database where trip data could be stored and stripped of some identifying information before being sent to the city. The database would record who shared the data, and what information was shared, creating a log that could be audited. The city is framing this as a debate with the companies, Webb said. But really, its between the city and all the citizens who are customers whose data and lives are being swept up in this fight. laura.nelson@latimes.com For more transportation news, follow @laura_nelson on Twitter. Chinese bombers. Chinese hypersonic missiles. Chinese cyberattacks. Chinese anti-satellite weapons. To a remarkable degree, the 2020 Pentagon budget proposal is shaped by national security threats that acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan has summarized in three words: China, China, China. The U.S. is still fighting small wars against Islamic extremists, and Russia remains a serious concern, but Shanahan seeks to shift the militarys main focus to what he considers the more pressing security problem of a rapidly growing Chinese military. This theme, which Shanahan outlined Thursday in presenting the administrations proposed 2020 defense budget to the Senate Armed Services Committee, is competing for attention with narrower, more immediate problems such as President Trumps effort to use the military to build a border wall between the U.S. and Mexico. Advertisement The hearing, for example, spent more time on the wall and prospects for using military funds to build parts of it than on any aspect of foreign policy, including the conflict in Syria or military competition with China, Russia or North Korea. Shanahan is hardly the first Defense chief to worry about China. Several predecessors pursued what the Obama administration called a pivot to the Pacific, with China in mind. But Shanahan sees it as an increasingly urgent problem that exceeds traditional measures of military strength and transcends partisan priorities. Weve been ignoring the problem for too long, Shanahan told a senator. China is aggressively modernizing its military, systematically stealing science and technology, and seeking military advantage through a strategy of military-civil fusion, he wrote in prepared testimony to the committee, which is considering a $718-billion Pentagon budget designed in part to counter Chinas momentum. The $25 billion the Pentagon is proposing to spend on nuclear weapons in 2020, for example, is meant in part to stay ahead of Chinas nuclear arsenal, which is much smaller than the U.S. but growing. Shanahan said China is developing a nuclear-capable long-range bomber that would potentially enable China to join the United States and Russia as the only nations with air-, sea- and land-based nuclear weapons. Shanahan ticked off a list of other Chinese advancements hypersonic missiles against which the U.S. has limited defenses; space launches and other space efforts that could enable it to fight wars in space; systematically stealing of U.S. and allied technology; and building up and militarizing islands in the South China Sea. Bonnie S. Glaser, director of the China Power Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, says the U.S. has been lacking effective strategies for competing with China on a broad scale. It is overdue, she said of the Shanahan focus. We have been somewhat slow in catching up in such areas as denying China its regional ambitions, including efforts to fully control the South China Sea, which is contested by several other countries. Some defense analysts think Shanahan and the Pentagon have inflated the China threat. I do think its worth asking what exactly is threatening about Chinas behavior, said Christopher Preble, vice president for defense and foreign policy studies at the Cato Institute. He doesnt discount China as a security issue, including in the South China Sea, but doubts the U.S. military is the institution best suited to deal with such nonmilitary problems as cyber-intrusions into American commercial networks. In Prebles view, competition with the Chinese is not mainly military. I still dont believe the nature of the threat is quite as grave as were led to believe by the Pentagon, he said. They tend to exaggerate the nature of the threat today. In his previous role as deputy Defense secretary, Shanahan assisted President Trumps first Defense secretary, James N. Mattis, in crafting a national defense strategy that put China at the top of the list of problems. As China continues its economic and military ascendance, asserting power through an all-of-nation long-term strategy, it will continue to pursue a military modernization program that seeks Indo-Pacific regional hegemony in the near term and displacement of the United States to achieve global preeminence in the future, that strategy document says. That explains in part why the U.S. is spending billions more on space, including the development of systems to defend satellites against potential Chinese attack, and on building hypersonic missiles to stay ahead of Chinese and Russian hypersonic weapons development. It also explains some of the thinking behind preparing for an early retirement of the aircraft carrier Harry Truman, a strategy that views carriers as a less relevant asset in a future armed conflict involving China. This concern about countering China has permeated the entire U.S. military. Gen. Thomas Waldhauser, head of the U.S. Africa Command, said last month that dozens of African heads of state were invited to Beijing last fall to consider billions in Chinese loans and grants, and that China is building thousands of miles of railroads in Africa, mostly linked to Chinese mineral extraction operations. Theyre heavily invested and heavily involved in Africa, Waldhauser said. The top U.S. commander in Europe told Congress this week that China also is making inroads there. China is looking to secure access to strategic geographic locations and economic sectors through financial stakes in ports, airlines, hotels, and utility providers, while providing a source of capital for struggling European economies, Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti said. A new, troublesome topic hovered over the St. Patricks Day parade in New York this year: Britains failed Brexit deal with the European Union that could squeeze Irelands economy. But nothing could put a damper on the largest American celebration of Irish heritage on Saturday, with tens of thousands of marchers following a painted green line up Fifth Avenue for the six-hour procession. Kevin Coughlan, a 27-year-old spectator wearing pants with four-leaf clovers, captured both the New York celebration and the political turmoil overseas, where he still has plenty of family in Ireland. Ive always been so proud to be an Irish American, and thats what today is about; its more than just one big party, its about celebrating our freedom, said the Hoboken, N.J., resident. Advertisement His mood darkened when he turned to Brexit, which is definitely something were all worried about, especially my family, he said. I mean, were all sort of just waiting for the shoe to drop to see what this means for the Irish economy. But, he added, We can get through anything; we survived a potato famine. Through its history, dating back more than 250 years, the New York parade has often had a political element. In the 1970s and 80s, as sectarian violence flared in Northern Ireland, there were controversies over the inclusion of groups supporting the militant wing of the Irish Republican Army. A banner reading England get out of Ireland has flown in the parade since the 1940s. This years march took place amid a new set of questions about relations between the United Kingdom and Ireland. When the Irish take to the streets this Saturday for the 258th St. Patricks Day Parade, our thoughts will take us far beyond the festivities on Fifth Ave. to Washington, D.C., and to the British Parliament in London, the grand marshal of this years parade in Manhattan, attorney Brian ODwyer, wrote in an editorial in the New York Daily News this week. British lawmakers are struggling to find a way to exit the European Union without disrupting the two-decade-old peace accords that created an open border between the Republic of Ireland, which is in the EU, and Northern Ireland, which is in the U.K. This week, with a March 29 deadline looming, British lawmakers voted to seek to delay Brexit for at least three months. But the possibility exists that the line between the two parts of Ireland, which has been unguarded for 20 years, will once again become hardened with vehicle checkpoints, trade rules and tariffs. ODwyer said Irish Americans are ready to mobilize politically to oppose any arrangement that leads to a restoration of the hard border that once split the Emerald Isle. It was Irish American activists who pressured former President Bill Clinton, over the objections of London and the U.S. State Department, to grant a visa to Sinn Feins Gerry Adams that set in motion the process that led to the Good Friday Agreement, which ended the sectarian violence known as the Troubles and opened the border between the two Irelands for the first time since partition at the time of Irish Independence in 1921, he wrote. We have been talking to leaders on both sides of the Atlantic to let them know that the same Irish American activists who pressured the Clinton administration are ready to saddle up again and fight against a post-Brexit trade deal between the U.S. and Great Britain if a hard border is restored. But for most at Saturdays parade, the political debate over the future Northern Ireland took a backseat to the pageantry. Popular marching groups included the pipe and drums corps from the Emerald Societies of the New York police and fire departments and the 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment, of the New York Army National Guard, which has led off the parade since 1851. The parade was held on Saturday because St. Patricks Day, March 17, is on a Sunday this year. If Congress seems dysfunctional to you, consider the spectacle recently on display in London. This month is a crucial one for decision-making on Brexit, Britains looming withdrawal from the European Union. But a chaotic and bitterly divided Parliament has managed to do nothing beyond kicking the Brexit can furtively down the road and hoping the EU will play along. The initial vote by British residents in 2016 to split from their continental partners may have shocked the countrys political establishment, but that was nearly three years ago. You might think that the many intervening months would have provided enough time to arrange for a smooth transition back to the status quo before England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland exchanged people and goods freely with the rest of Europe. Parliaments formal approval of the withdrawal in March 2017 started a two-year countdown, and Brexit is now set for liftoff in less than two weeks ready or not. Its entirely possible that Britain will put Brexit up for another nationwide referendum. Advertisement But one thing thats become abundantly clear is that there can be no smooth transition. The formation of an essentially borderless Europe in 1993 has changed much about the countries and economies involved. So too did the 1998 Good Friday peace deal to end the violence in Northern Ireland a deal enhanced by a relatively open intra-EU border between Ireland and Northern Ireland. What to do about that border has been probably the thorniest of the issues raised by the Brexit referendum; others include questions about trade and customs terms, regulatory parity, the divorce payment the Britain would have to make to part ways with the EU, and the rights of British citizens living in EU countries (and of Europeans in Britain). Most of those issues remain unresolved, but Prime Minister Theresa May the leader of the Tory party that championed Brexit negotiated a deal with the EU that would allow goods to continue to pass across the border in Ireland without duties even if there were no larger trade agreement between the two sides. Mays deal would be better than nothing, but she has been singularly unable to push it through Parliament. On Tuesday, she tried a second time to win approval for the deal, and again she suffered a resounding defeat, opposed not just by members who want Britain to stay in the EU, but also by many Brexit supporters (including Tories) who want a cleaner break. Then, as the week progressed, lawmakers further muddied the waters, voting against leaving the EU without a deal, against seizing control of the process from the prime minister, and against holding another referendum. The one thing they could agree on was that theyre not ready for Brexit. Parliament voted Thursday to put off the withdrawal indefinitely, a delay that requires the approval of every other EU member nation. EU leaders, who have opposed Brexit from the start, have expressed support for a delay that could stretch on for more than a year, evidently hoping that the would-be defectors will come to their senses and reembrace the union. Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute Its entirely possible that Britain will put Brexit up for another nationwide referendum; the Parliaments recent vote against it was warped by the Labour Party leaderships inexplicable decision to oppose another vote of the people. Brexit was a bad idea from the start, and the case against it has only grown stronger over time as businesses leave or limit investments in Britain to avoid the possible increase in tariffs and taxes. Yet the British government seems to have lost the ability to learn from experience and change course, a problem that seems common among democracies these days. The country is sharply polarized over Brexit just for one illustration, witness the death threats reported by members of Parliament who came out against withdrawing. In the minds of its supporters, the narrow vote in favor of Brexit in 2016 locks Britain into the split, regardless of the mounting evidence about how difficult and damaging it would be. In short, an exercise in direct democracy has stymied the mother of all Parliaments. The events of the last few days have challenged the legitimacy of all the leaders involved; Mays position in particular may not be saved even if she somehow manages to persuade Parliament in the coming days to approve the Brexit terms she negotiated with the EU. That would clearly be a better outcome than a no-deal Brexit, but perhaps the best hope now is that the EU grants Britain a very long stay of its own economic execution. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinionand Facebook The Los Angeles Police Department embraced predictive policing in 2015, but it has taken until now for the departments assortment of once-shadowy data-based operations to be thoroughly vetted in public. In the end, thats the essential problem to be solved the lack of transparency and public accountability in deploying crime-targeting tools that could so easily be misused to oppress rather than protect neighborhoods already struggling with both crime and heavy-handed policing. It took years of work by activists to bring programs like LASER (a data-crunching operation that identifies crime hot spots) and PredPol (a software program that predicts property crimes) into the light of day, and they are to be commended; but they are off base in their demands that police scrap the tools entirely. Data, used properly, can enhance public safety. Police should be encouraged to use it, as long as they are open about what they are doing, and as long as they heed legitimate criticism and adjust their programs accordingly. Failure to carefully tailor predictive policing programs invites invasion of privacy, racial profiling and other unacceptable side effects. Opponents make a good case that, instead of eliminating bias, algorithms actually enhance it. Advertisement Problems with the LAPDs predictive policing project were outlined in a report presented to the Police Commission on Tuesday by Inspector General Mark Smith. Smith found that officers used inconsistent criteria in targeting and tracking people they considered to be most likely to commit violent crimes. The department is due to respond in full on April 9, but LAPD Chief Michel Moore already told the commission that he would make some adjustments to the program. The importance of data in policing should be obvious, and in concept is nothing new. Police have always kept an eye out for felons who return to their old neighborhoods after their release from prison. Gang leaders have long been watched to ensure that they dont restart criminal enterprises that were shut down when they were incarcerated. Now, with the advent of newer technologies, algorithms and other computer programs can even more effectively predict which people in the community bear closer scrutiny. Promoters of computerized risk-assessment tools argue that the programs eliminate whatever idiosyncrasies or biases that individual officers may bring when they act merely on their own hunches, and can help police more accurately target people most likely to commit violent crimes. But that enthusiasm may be unwarranted. Opponents make a good case that, instead of eliminating bias, algorithms actually enhance it. Consider, for example, a program that measures a persons likelihood to be arrested based on a set of factors that include how many times hes been arrested previously, whether he is on probation or parole, and how many crimes have been committed in the neighborhood where he lives. Using that data, police may find that people who have been arrested three times are likely to be arrested again, cueing officers that they should be tracking others in that situation. The problem is that we also have data that show police arrest African Americans and Latinos more often than whites who have committed the same crimes, in part because their neighborhoods are more heavily policed. They are also prosecuted more often for the same crimes, so end up in jail or on probation and parole more often for the same crimes. If the algorithm crunches arrest, incarceration and probation or parole data and then spits out a risk assessment, it will signal to cops that the black or Latino subjects already subject to unequal criminal justice treatment ought to be more closely watched. The cycle of inequity will be repeated, this time enhanced by the data science that is supposed to erase bias. Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute This same issue is at the center of discussions about using risk assessment tools in bail reform, where algorithms are proposed in lieu of printed bail schedules to help judges decide which suspects to keep in jail and which to release without bail pending trial. It shows up in child welfare policy, where structured decision-making programs are meant to help social workers decide when to remove children from their homes and when to leave them in place. It is likely to appear in parole hearings, as boards weigh whether to keep convicts behind bars or set them free. In each arena, there is a legitimate concern that algorithms will perpetuate long-standing biases rather than eliminate them. Along the way, it will turn decision makers into tools, rather than the other way around. Many activists believe that the misuse of data is inevitable and therefore that these techniques ought to be scrapped entirely. But that would leave us with police who bumble in darkness. Thats no recipe for either equity or public safety. Many of the same activists object to police use of drones. But the Police Commission studied the issue and crafted a policy that keeps tight reins on deployment, requires meticulous disclosure and monitoring, and still allows drone use in narrowly tailored situations. Surely the commission can do the same with predictive policing tools. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook They struck in Los Angeles. They are striking in Oakland. Soon public school teachers could be striking in Madera County, Sacramento and other communities, seeking not only better pay but smaller class sizes and curbed expansion of charter schools. The labor unrest in K-12 classrooms leaves the impression that California teachers have launched a coordinated, statewide campaign to shake up the education establishment and reform state schools policy. But on the ground, many teachers say local problems are a driver of their dissent, though they want more from the state when it comes to funding and oversight. At a rally Friday on the second day of the teachers strike in Oakland, educator Jacob Rukin was clear that he wasnt protesting just the school district the state also bears blame for the problems that led nearly 3,000 teachers to walk out. We need more money from the state and we need to do a better job managing here in Oakland, he said. I think both things can be true. Advertisement As teachers across California become more vocal about conditions in their financially strapped districts, they are increasingly performing a delicate dance between advocating for sweeping state fixes including a need for more funding while also holding local administrators responsible for what they say is mismanagement of the resources they control. One of the few points of agreement between unions and school leaders is that, even with increases in Gov. Gavin Newsoms proposed budget, California doesnt put enough money towards educating its kids. But some teachers, and their unions, worry that too much of a push at the state level gives the public the perception that more money is the only needed answer to the problems in California schools and provides an escape from accountability at the local level where the disagreements are varied and complex. Many districts officials, faced with big deficits and unhappy teachers, have been quick to point blame at the Capitol. In Los Angeles Unified School District, where the recent teachers strike closed schools for six days, schools Supt. Austin Beutner was clear he believes the state needs to reconsider how it funds education. During the strike, he called on teachers to take the passion from picketing and translate it into asking the state for more funding. Lets get to Sacramento And lets have the conversation in the right place, Beutner said on the second day of the Los Angeles strike. When it was over, he said, We are at an historic moment to start addressing the issue of 40 years of underfunding public education. Lets work together to make sure every student gets a great education. (Last week, Beutner also expressed support for a local measure to raise funds for the L.A. Unified.) In Oakland, the message from the district regarding state funding was similar. John Sasaki, spokesman for Oakland Unified School District, said the district had a history of mismanagement but long term, we are absolutely focused on more of a state and federal approach because we need to change the way education is funded. Theres no doubt the L.A. Unified strike emboldened teachers in other parts of California and that teachers unions north and south have shared information with each other about their tactics. In Oakland, members of United Teachers Los Angeles were on hand to help with messaging and organizing. But teachers and labor leaders say there are unique problems at the district level that, in their view, will be addressed only if school administrators are confronted. Administrators are trying to take the responsibility off a bunch of bad decisions they have made and say, Oh, its a statewide problem, said John Borsos, spokesman for the union that represents Sacramento teachers. Sacramento Unified School District has a $35-million deficit. A state audit found it will be insolvent by November and face a state takeover without massive cuts. Last week, the school board voted to move forward on layoffs, including about 120 K-12 teachers. Sacramento City Unified School District spokesman Alex Barrios said without major cuts that could stave off the state takeover, we would lose the decision-making authority that would be necessary to have the accountability they want to see. David Fisher, president of the Sacramento teachers union, which is in the process of taking a strike vote, said he believes the district has spent too much on administration and he distrusts that cuts need to come at the expense of teachers. In our specific situation, since the state started to slowly increase funding, our district has prioritized those limited additional resources toward administration rather than the classroom, Fisher said. In L.A., union leaders acknowledged the need for greater state funding but also called on the district to use more of its nearly $2-billion reserve whether those dollars were truly free for use was a central point of contention between the two sides during negotiations. Even after the strike ended, that point remained unsettled despite the countys office of educations warnings about the LAUSDs finances. We frankly have a few differences on some key parts of the districts budget, union President Alex Caputo-Pearl said during the news conference at the mayors office that was meant to announce the agreement that would end the strike. Pedro Noguera, a professor of education at UCLA, said with the finances so bad in many districts, unions face a danger of hurting their own members by focusing on local problems. I think actually the balance isnt being struck very well, he said. Yes, you have to hold the district accountable, but if in holding it accountable you actually make it weaker, then everybody is going to lose. Noguera said the animosity between teachers and districts may make it hard for them to work together in the future. Are they able to, are they willing to, or is there so much enmity created by the strike? he said. While dissent and mistrust between unions and districts is high, the common ground of the need for increased funding may ultimately bring them together over another controversial issue: changing Proposition 13, the 1978 amendment to the California Constitution that limits growth in property taxes, resulting in a shift of funding from local to state sources and thus frequently targeted by those who argue schools are chronically underfunded. Voters may have a chance to partially undo the landmark law through a November 2020 ballot initiative that would allow commercial property to be more frequently assessed at market rates. The measure, which will be on the ballot unless backers agree to negotiate an alternative through the Legislature, already has the backing of some school boards, including L.A. Unified, and school administrators. On Wednesday, a group of about 35 Oakland principals went to the state Capitol to advocate for more funding, and, among other issues, to look for support from legislators for changing Proposition 13. That is common ground and that is something that we are committed to, is Prop. 13 reform, said Keith Brown, president of the Oakland Education Assn., the union representing striking teachers. The California Teachers Assn., which includes both the Oakland and L.A. teachers unions, has endorsed the initiative. In L.A. last month, union leaders emphasized their role in trying to get the statewide initiative on the ballot, while also calling on district leaders to spend more on the contract. Prop. 13 seems to be something we can agree on that needs to change, said Carmelita Reyes, principal at Oakland International High School, who met with legislators. I think its our best chance. Times staff reporters Maria La Ganga and Nicole Santa Cruz contributed to this story. More coverage of California poitics anita.chabria@latimes.com Follow @chabriaa on Twitter and sign up for our Essential Politics newsletter. sonali.kohli@latimes.com Twitter: @Sonali_Kohli As President Trump pushes Mexico further away, declaring a national emergency to force the construction of a wall along the border, Gov. Gavin Newsom and California lawmakers have made clear they want to draw the country closer. Along with a commitment to reopen a trade office in Mexico City, the governor also plans to revitalize a state commission that would allow California officials to work on issues with their counterparts in Mexican government. And over the course of his first term, Newsom and state Democrats are expected to refocus attention on what they consider the real issues at the heart of the U.S.-Mexico relationship: tackling cross-border pollution, promoting cultural and educational exchanges, and defending the human rights of all immigrants. In a state where Latino elected officials have helped launch a full-scale resistance to the Trump administration, top California leaders say they see a powerful ally in the states new chief executive. They believe Newsoms more forceful stance on immigration and diplomatic approach to Mexico could help reinvigorate old ties and usher in an era of stronger collaboration, providing a viable alternative to the White Houses approach to relations there and around the world. The relationship between Mexico and California is not only a political relationship, said Jeronimo Cortina, associate professor of political science at the University of Houston. You have commerce, you have tourism, you have trade. Regardless of what the federal government is doing, as a governor you dont want to lose that relationship. Advertisement But whether the state can move beyond the symbolic wins to become an effective model for how to improve and maintain those ties depends on whether Newsom is able to deliver on his promises. Weeks before he took office, Newsom attended the inauguration of Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, where he first pledged to open a trade office in Mexico City. He and his staffers have not yet released details on the plan or efforts to revive a Commission of the Californias, saying only that it will allow a state delegation and members of the Mexican government to work together on areas of economic, political and cultural concern. Though most economic, foreign and border policy falls under the purview of the federal government, a governor can lead trade missions abroad, promote investment into state businesses and build alliances with government officials to elevate the states priorities on an international stage. Two years ago, former Gov. Jerry Brown assumed the role of Americas unofficial ambassador on climate change, touring China to meet with business leaders and executives just after Trump announced the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris accord. In Mexico, in 2014, Brown signed memorandums of understanding to develop joint task forces and explore other ways to cooperate in battling wildfires, improving data on air quality and reducing greenhouse emissions. State lawmakers say Newsom will be key in renegotiating those agreements, which are due to expire soon, and lauded the governors promise to reopen the Mexico City trade office, saying it could expand trade deals, loan agreements and technical assistance in manufacturing, alternative energy, technology and other areas. But similar proposals for such a state-funded office were twice rejected by Brown, who pointed to existing agreements between California and Mexican officials, saying he remained unconvinced the state needed it. Similar foreign offices closed in 2003 amid a recession and criticism from legislators and trade experts who said they doubled services and were ineffective. Michael Flores, the states secretary of foreign affairs under Gov. Gray Davis, unsuccessfully fought to keep the Mexico office open and contested the claims. You got to have dialogue, you have to have diplomacy, you have to be talking, he said. If not, there is a vacuum filled with something else the Washington rhetoric. Texas was Obamas chief antagonist. In Trumps America, California is eager for the part The U.S.-Mexico border barrier stands on a hillside in Tijuana, Mexico. (Mario Tama / Getty Images) Injecting new energy into the cross-border relationship could be a way to heal divisive rhetoric coming from the Trump administration, state lawmakers and political analysts said. But for California, it isnt just a matter of principles, its economics. Newsoms approach is more persistence of past [state] policies than resistance to [federal] policies now, said Tomas Jimenez, associate professor of sociology at Stanford University. Mexico is one of the states top trading partners, exporting roughly $26 billion in goods and importing another $46 billion just last year, according to the state Chamber of Commerce. Latino purchasing power has grown to $320 billion since 1990, one Latino advocacy group found, and the state is home to the largest number of immigrants most of whom are here legally including 4.2 million people born in Mexico, more than 35% of the United States Mexican-born population, according to census data and the Public Policy Institute of California. Against that backdrop, it was Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) and former state Senate leader Kevin de Leon who first began to chart the states course in confronting Washington, releasing a joint statement the day after the 2016 presidential election declaring California the new keeper of the nations future. As leaders of a state that is now home to the worlds fifth-largest economy, they pledged to defend Californias progressive strides in historic diversity, scientific advancement, economic output, and sense of global responsibility. And as Latinos and representatives of immigrant-dense Los Angeles communities, they began reaching out to Mexican leaders and passed legislation designed to counter the presidents call for mass deportations. In court, they found an ally in Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra, a former congressman and the son of Mexican immigrants, and Secretary of State Alex Padilla, who challenged Trumps unproven claims of widespread voter fraud and moves to change to the U.S. Census, which they say threaten to significantly undercount the states immigrant population. While Trump has said tolerance for illegal immigration is cruel and the source of a border crisis, Newsom has dismissed those characterizations as comedy and the theater of the absurd. He walked on stage at his inauguration just after the music group Los Cenzontles serenaded the crowd with Mexican melodies and his wife, documentary filmmaker Jennifer Siebel Newsom, read a poem in both English and Spanish by former U.S. poet laureate Juan Felipe Herrera. The governor has since promised to expand state-funded healthcare to more young immigrants who are in the country illegally and earmarked millions for nonprofit groups assisting asylum seekers in San Diego. Last week, he ordered the withdrawal of most California National Guard members from the border, realigning the priorities of those left behind to ensure they do not enforce immigration laws. Not all have praised the efforts. State Sen. Jeff Stone (R-Temecula) called the overall tone of last weeks State of the State address disappointing, saying Newsom seemed more interested in picking a public fight with President Trump than addressing the needs of working California citizens. To call the Presidents actions to curtail illegal immigration political theater is an insult to the millions of legal immigrants who came into this country legally and work hard every day to make California a better place, Stone said in a written statement. But others said Newsom was making a smart investment in a young and growing population of Latinos, whose numbers will boost Californias political and purchasing power and serve as an influential voter base. California and Mexico previously experienced turbulent relations in the 1980s and 1990s, when the state was a wellspring of anti-immigrant rhetoric and measures. Television campaign ads for statewide candidates played on voters anxieties over race and called for increased border security, using images of immigrants streaming across the border from Mexico. The relationship between the state and its southern neighbor didnt begin to improve until the early 2000s under Gov. Gray Davis, who appointed Flores to serve as a liaison with Mexico. Wed hear, No, no, Pete Wilson until they realized Davis wasnt Wilson, Flores said, calling the Davis administrations early overtures to Mexican officials difficult. Under Davis, Mexican Presidents Ernesto Zedillo and Vicente Fox made unprecedented visits to California, the state expanded a Mexico City trade office and Sacramento hosted a border governors conference in 2000, with members of U.S. and Mexican states. But the office closed three years later amid a recession and allegations that it took too much credit for deals other partners helped facilitate. Over the next two decades, state legislators said, relations between California and Mexico though haphazardly organized remained strong as an increasingly diverse Legislature took office. Many members, some of whom began their political involvement in activism against the anti-immigrant ballot initiatives of the 90s, took on a new focus: establishing protections for immigrants in the country illegally. Later, as efforts to overhaul the nations immigration laws collapsed in Congress under the Obama administration, state lawmakers pushed Brown to work more closely with Mexican partners and sign laws to provide access to drivers licenses, offer college tuition assistance for immigrants without legal status and put distance between immigration enforcement agencies and state and local law enforcement. California to sue Trump administration over national emergency declaration Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks after a January meeting with city leaders about providing relief and humanitarian aid to asylum seekers in San Diego. (K.C. Alfred / San Diego Union-Tribune) After Trumps election, Brown took a more aggressive stance to defend immigrants without legal status, signing proposals to expand previous laws on immigration enforcement and fund legal services. But he was circumspect in his speech and actions. Some lawmakers say their Mexican counterparts have started in the Trump era to echo the same concerns once heard under Wilson. We spend more time than we need to with our peers across the border trying to convince them, Its not us, its not us, Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins (D-San Diego) said. With a new federal administration in Mexico, some lawmakers say they believe Newsom will do more to open lines of communication. The governor is extremely influential in this discourse, state Sen. Ben Hueso (D-San Diego) said. What resources and time and attention he plans to apply to this is going to be very important. Its going to be interesting for us to see and also send a message internationally about what this governors feelings are toward Mexico. Rendon, legislators in his chamber and others including Mexican Consul General Liliana Ferrer already have been working on the California-Mexico Strategic Dialogue initiative to develop the working relationship among officials. In April, members will take on cross-border pollution, including cleaning up sewage and waste in the Tijuana River near San Diego and the New River, which cuts through Imperial County. I wanted to make sure we went beyond the grip-and-grin meetings that didnt have any impact on policy, Rendon said. It initially had nothing to do with Trump, he said, but the state has filled the vacuum. Gavin Newsom has been more antagonistic to Trump than Jerry Brown was. And hes just getting started In State of the Union response, Becerra warns legal action if Trump seeks national emergency for border wall California versus Trump became an instant rallying cry. But resistance has been more complicated In an executive order last month calling for new DNA tests in the quadruple-murder case of death row inmate Kevin Cooper, Gov. Gavin Newsom said he was acting to ensure that all evidence is examined when the government seeks to impose the ultimate punishment. Coopers fate wont be the last in Newsoms hands. California is home to the nations largest death row with 737 condemned inmates 24 of whom are convicted of murder and have exhausted their appeals, like Cooper. For the record: An earlier version of this story said that 739 inmates are on Californias death row. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation reports there are 737 inmates on Californias death row. The state has not put a prisoner to death since 2006 because of a series of legal challenges to its method of lethal injection. But Newsom said he expects those court cases to be resolved while hes in office, clearing the way for executions to resume in California. Were poised to potentially oversee the execution of more prisoners than any other state in modern history, Newsom said. Those 24 have gone through their process and many others are right behind them. Advertisement The governor has been open about his opposition to the death penalty, saying that he has the ability under the law to put his beliefs into practice. As lieutenant governor, he was one of a few statewide officials to endorse a failed 2016 ballot measure to abolish the death penalty, while then-Gov. Jerry Brown and then-Atty. Gen. Kamala Harris, who is now in the U.S. Senate and running for president, took no official position. Newsom directed his legal advisors to assess his options as Californias chief executive, which include the constitutional power to commute death sentences and issue temporary reprieves. But the governor must balance his opinions on capital punishment with the will of California voters, who over the last six years rejected two statewide ballot measures to repeal the death penalty and favored fast-tracking the appeals process. Newsom has not said publicly what he plans to do, but the governor indicated he may take action in the near future. The minute I got elected, in the transition, I prioritized this issue, Newsom told The Times in a recent interview. I dont want to react to something. I want to be proactive. And I have been very proactive in trying to determine what the best path is. Since his election, Newsom has sought counsel on the issue of capital punishment from religious leaders, state lawmakers and former governors from across the county, including his predecessor, Brown. Hes also talked with former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, the last California governor to preside over an execution in the state. Death penalty opponents believe Newsom will not allow an execution to take place while he is in office given his objections to a death penalty process he has said is administered with troubling racial disparities, and because of wrongful convictions in the judicial system. Sometimes being a leader is leading. I dont think Newsom will ever put somebody to death, said Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego), an opponent of the death penalty. Slavery was once a law and also popular in this country and there were people who stood up and said, No, this is wrong. Former M*A*S*H star Mike Farrell, a leading advocate for abolishing the death penalty, said he spoke with Newsom about the issue during the 2018 gubernatorial campaign. I dont believe he will allow an execution to go forward during his time in office, Farrell said. Thats me, thats my sense of the man [from] my conversations with him. Farrell was a major proponent of 2016s Proposition 62, which would have abolished the death penalty for first-degree murder and reduced death sentences to life in prison without the possibility of parole. California voters rejected the measure by a margin of 53% to 47%. Voters narrowly approved Proposition 66, a measure on the same ballot to streamline death penalty appeals. DNA tests could reveal if Kevin Cooper was wrongly convicted of murder. Why didnt Jerry Brown order them? The death chamber of the lethal injection facility at San Quentin State Prison. California has not put a prisoner to death since 2006 because of a series of legal challenges to its method of lethal injection. (Eric Risberg / Associated Press) Two days before the election in 2016, Newsom sent out a tweet calling the death penalty fundamentally immoral, and highlighting the case of Alabama prisoner Anthony Ray Hinton, who was sentenced to death for a double murder and released in 2015 after forensic experts couldnt determine whether bullets from the crime scene came from his gun. Farrell urged Newsom to take a stand regardless of public perception and said he wants the governor to display the same political courage he did as mayor of San Francisco, when he ordered the city to issue same-sex marriage licenses in 2004. He certainly can stop an execution, Farrell said. Thats within his power. The state Constitution gives the California governor the authority to grant a reprieve, pardon, and commutation, but those executive powers have limits. For condemned inmates convicted of a single felony, Newsom has authority to commute sentences to life in prison. But the governor cannot commute the sentences of prisoners convicted of two separate felonies a population that includes more than half the inmates on death row without the approval of the California Supreme Court. The court rejected 10 commutations handed out by Gov. Brown in his last full month in office, all of which involved people convicted of multiple felonies. The court did not provide an explanation for the action. The provision is in the Constitution to prevent an abuse of power by the governor, said Kent Scheidegger, legal director of the pro-death penalty Criminal Justice Legal Foundation. It was the first time in decades that Californias top court rejected a governors commutations, which should serve as a warning to Newsom, he said. I support #YesOn62 & #NoOn66. The death penalty is a failed policy that wastes money & is fundamentally immoral. https://t.co/C2YSWgqKLU Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) November 7, 2016 The governor also has the constitutional authority to grant reprieves to prisoners facing execution, in essence a temporary stay. Newsom could impose a de facto moratorium on capital punishment in California by granting a reprieve each time an inmate is sent to the death chamber, Scheidegger said. But those reprieves would expire as soon as Newsom leaves office, pushing the life-and-death decisions to his successor. That also would be an abuse of power. Its not why we have clemency, Scheidegger said, arguing that those powers should be used only as a protection against miscarriages of justice. Shilpi Agarwal, a staff attorney with an expertise in criminal justice at the American Civil Liberties Union of Northern California, disagrees. She said the governor has the constitutional authority to commute sentences and prevent executions from taking place. The governor has very important role to play, and I sincerely hope that he chooses to exercise his discretion, Agarwal said. Governors in Oregon, Colorado and Pennsylvania have imposed moratoriums on executions in those states, all using executive powers similar to those held by Newsom. Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf halted capital punishment there in 2015 after deciding that the state had a flawed system that has been proven to be an endless cycle of court proceedings as well as ineffective, unjust, and expensive. Newsom has voiced similar concerns, particularly regarding the racial and regional disparities related to who is sentenced to death in California. Six former governors had urged Brown, who is opposed to the death penalty, to commute the sentences of all of Californias death row inmates before he left office in January, a request he rejected. California voters approved a statewide ballot measure reinstating the death penalty in 1978, six years after it was halted by the U.S. Supreme Court and two years after a high court ruling allowed executions to resume. Since 1978, California has carried out 13 executions under Govs. Pete Wilson, Gray Davis and Schwarzenegger. During that same time, 26 inmates on death row have died by suicide, and 79 have died of natural causes, according to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Among the 24 death row inmates who have exhausted their appeals is Cooper, who was sentenced to death in 1985 after he was convicted of killing Doug and Peggy Ryen and their 10-year-old daughter, Jessica, as well 11-year-old Christopher Hughes, who was unrelated to the family. They were found stabbed to death in a Chino Hills home. Newsoms executive order requiring additional DNA testing in that case came after Coopers attorneys alleged that key pieces of evidence were not properly tested and needed to be analyzed with modern technology. As you saw what I just did with Cooper, I take this very seriously, Newsom said. Ive been a strong advocate in opposition to the death penalty. Michael Morales, who was sentenced to death in 1981 for raping and murdering 17-year-old Lodi, Calif., high school student Terri Winchell, has also exhausted all of his appeals. His execution was stayed in February 2006 after his lawyers argued that the states lethal injection procedure using sedatives and paralytic agents might mask, rather than prevent, pain from the final heart-stopping chemicals. A federal judge halted all executions later that year, ruling that Californias three-drug lethal injection protocol risked producing a painful death and violated the constitutional prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment. California finalized new lethal injection regulations in early 2018, which require executioners to use a single chemical, either pentobarbital or thiopental. But the administrative process the state used to determine those standards is being challenged in court by the ACLU. Agarwal said she doesnt expect the legal challenges against the death penalty to subside anytime soon. If true, Newsom may not have to decide how to handle the cases, just like his predecessor. I think that there is virtually no chance that California will be in any sort of position to begin executions within the next four years, Agarwal said. Theres just so many problems with the death penalty. Sacramento political scientist Kim Nalder said the close votes of the two death penalty ballot measures in 2016 showed that Californians are almost evenly divided on the issue, and the national trend has moved toward abolishing capital punishment. According to the Death Penalty Information Center, eight states have abolished capital punishment either through the legislative process or by court ruling since 2007. Newsom might be on solid enough footing to do what he can to stall or stop executions if and when it comes to that, Nalder said. It could be a close call. You can always fall back as an elected official saying the voters voted for me because they trust my judgment. In August, Newsom told news outlet CALmatters that he wanted to give California voters a chance to reconsider whether to abolish the death penalty. But doing so could come with a drawback: If Californians again vote to keep the death penalty, Newsom might feel pressure to abide by their decision. Once you put it out to the voters its pretty hard to go against their will, Nalder said. Newsom, who is Catholic, said he has been doing a lot of soul searching in recent months. His late father, William Newsom, was also opposed to the death penalty, and the governor said they discussed the issue ad nauseum. In an interview with a University of California oral history project a decade ago, William Newsom, a former state appellate court justice, said he presided over three capital cases while he was a trial judge, and set aside the juries recommended death sentences in all of them. Newsom said his fathers opposition was hardened later in life by the case of Pete Pianezzi, a longtime friend who was convicted of first-degree murder for shooting and killing a gambler and busboy in Los Angeles in 1937. Pianezzi escaped the death penalty by a single vote and served 13 years in prison. He was later exonerated after mafia hit man Jimmy The Weasel Fratiano disclosed that the murders were committed by two gangsters with ties to a Los Angeles crime family. Newsom led an effort to get Pianezzi a full pardon, which Brown granted in 1981. This is a deep issue personally for me, going back to my relationship with my father, Newsom said. A governor has to sign off and youve got to live with yourself. phil.willon@latimes.com Twitter: @philwillon The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health will host an informational meeting at John Burroughs High School on Friday to educate parents and students about tuberculosis. On Wednesday, the Burbank Unified School District sent a letter to John Burroughs parents informing them that county officials have identified an individual at the high school who has been diagnosed with a possible case of tuberculosis. It is unknown if the person who may have contracted the serious but curable disease is a student or faculty member at Burroughs High, located at 1920 Clark Ave. However, Burbank Unified spokeswoman Kimberley Clark said no other tuberculosis cases have been found at other schools in the district. The meeting on Friday with county health officials will be held at 3:30 p.m. in the school auditorium, where they will be answering any questions parents may have regarding the disease. Additionally, health officials, with the help of John Burroughs staff, will be checking to see if there are any other students or faculty members who may have contracted the airborne illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tuberculosis is a disease caused by a bacteria that primarily attacks a persons lungs. Those who are infected with tuberculosis do not always show signs of the illness, but the disease can be fatal if not treated properly. Symptoms of tuberculosis include chest pain, a cough lasting longer than three weeks, coughing up blood, weight loss, fatigue and fever, according to the federal health agency. Anyone with questions can contact Lenora Aguilera, the school nurse at John Burroughs, at (818) 729-6900, Ext. 61999. anthonyclark.carpio@latimes.com Twitter: @acocarpio As many law enforcement agencies across the nation have begun to include pink vehicles into their fleets as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, the Burbank Police Department decided to take a shiny and chrome approach. With the help of West Coast Customs, Burbank police unveiled a pink-chrome Ford Explorer that will make special appearances at city events throughout the month. Called the Pink Car Project, the vehicle is a way to raise breast cancer awareness and encourage people to undergo regular screenings to detect the disease early. According to the U.S. Department of Health, there is a one-in-eight chance a woman will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in her life. Very few families can escape it, Burbank Police Chief Scott LaChasse said. We got a really vested interest in making sure that we can prevent, detect and take care of cancer. Ryan Friedlinghaus, chief executive of West Coast Customs, said the customization work was done pro bono by the company and that some employees even donated their time to work on the car. He said the choice of the chrome wrapping was to help Burbanks vehicle standout from those of other police departments. Definitely the pink chrome was something I thought we needed to do because it pops, he said. When you do the chrome wraps and add a tint to it, it just makes a huge difference. In addition to the chrome wrapping, the police cruiser is also adorned with pink tire stickers branded with Burbank PD. When the vehicle is on display, community members will have the chance to sign the chrome wrapping with messages of support for those affected by breast cancer. LaChasse said at the end of the month the wrapping will then be removed and put on display at the police station in order to showcase those messages. andy.nguyen@latimes.com Twitter: @Andy_Truc If you ever feel like a wallflower and want lots of attention pronto, heres an idea: Express an opinion about pled versus pleaded on social media. Any opinion will do. No matter what you say, youll get tons of people telling you youre wrong and just as many people telling your detractors that they, in fact, are wrong. Recently, former U.S. Atty. Preet Bharara took to Twitter to espouse his preference for pled over pleaded. The tweet got 19,000 likes and 1,100 replies, many of them passionately arguing one side or the other. Bravo!, one anonymous Twitter user replied. Grammatically, it should be pled in a legal context. Pleaded is for intimate, personal interactions. He pled guilty to Muellers charges, then pleaded with his wife to forgive him. This isnt the first time a controversy over pled versus pleaded has set the internet on fire. In late 2017, self-styled language sleuths set out to determine the true author of a presidential tweet based solely on its use of pled as the past participle of plead. Amid speculation that lawyer John Dowd penned the tweet under Donald Trumps name, one observer stirred up a hornets nest by asking, Were supposed to believe John Dowd wrote pled instead of pleaded? The implication: Surely, no lawyer would use the obviously incorrect pled, right? I understand why people have strong opinions on language. I might have a few myself. But I dont understand how people who are certain one way is right and another is wrong dont consult a dictionary before they document their unfounded certainty in a public forum. For example, the person who tweeted that pleaded is reserved for intimate personal relationships offered no source for the assertion other than his own absolute certainty. Ive been writing about language since 2002, researching such matters on a regular basis, and never come across this idea, much less a rule to this effect. So which is right: pled or pleaded? Regular readers probably hear this coming: Both forms are correct. The one you choose should depend on whose authority you accept. Merriam-Websters Collegiate Dictionary says the simple past tense and the past participle form are pleaded or pled, in that order. That means you can use both. Websters New World College Dictionary takes a narrower view: It gives you just one option: pleaded. American Heritage sides with Merriams, stating that pleaded and pled are both acceptable. For regular everyday users, dictionaries are the best authorities. And because some dictionaries allow either pled or pleaded, you can consider that a green light to use whichever you prefer. But more specialized language authorities arent as flexible. The Associated Press Stylebook states: Do not use the colloquial past-tense form pled. Remember that APs job is different from the dictionarys job. AP is a playbook that aims to help ensure consistency within a publication. Its not APs job to say, You can use either. Its APs job to say, We need to write it the same way on Page 1 that we do on Page 20, so were going to make a call here. If you want to know whats proper in legal contexts, you turn to a legal language expert like Bryan Garner. In Garners Modern American Usage, he acknowledges that both forms are acceptable in general usage. He even offers some interesting insights into the differences between American and British English. The Brits, it turns out, are no fans of pled. Though that form was once more common across the pond, pled has taken a dive in popularity in recent centuries. But as a legal language expert, Garner has a clear preference. Traditionally speaking, pleaded is the best past-tense and past-participial form. JUNE CASAGRANDE is the author of The Joy of Syntax: A Simple Guide to All the Grammar You Know You Should Know. She can be reached at JuneTCN@aol.com. JUNE CASAGRANDE is the author of The Best Punctuation Book, Period. She can be reached at JuneTCN@aol.com. A survey of more than 2,000 British adults suggests that while few people think of religions as inherently violent, 47% of those surveyed believe the world would be a more peaceful place if no one was religious. The survey report, detailed on the Church Times website, points out that a majority of respondents believe political ideologies and socioeconomic issues have more to do with religious violence than faith. This is emphatically not to say that religion in itself its practices, loyalties, scriptures and even ethics has nothing to do with violence, the report states, arguing that specific religious texts are hijacked to legitimize violence. Q. Does religious belief contribute to violence in the world? What could be done to counter texts that appear to advocate violence in the name of religion? Not to be rude, but this is hardly a new observation. People have been accusing religions of violence and destruction since religions began probably because religions have been guilty of it, or misused for it, ever since they began. No one can deny that ancient religions reflect the barbarism common in their founding eras. But they often improved upon it; and in any case, the violence is certainly not the end of what can and should be said about religion. Those fond of making these accusations regularly fail to point out the even more massive waves of goodness which religions have accomplished in the world all the schools, hospitals, orphanages, clinics, shelters and help centers of every stripe that would never have existed without religious impetus to found them. Religions have been at the forefront of peace efforts, racial reconciliation, fair wages and labor laws, immigrants rights, womens rights, childrens rights (and yes, gay rights, some of us) pretty much every human rights or social justice movement on the planet. And of course there are the good works done every single day by ordinary folk: countless billions of random acts of kindness, all done in the name of religion, by good earnest people whose names and faces will never make it onto the evening news or into the history books. So, yeah, religion has a pretty long history, and in the millennia of its existence, its done some infamously bad stuff, and even more bad stuff has been done in its name, without its consent. It has also been quietly responsible for immense good, perhaps for the majority of the goodness and human progress that has happened on earth to date. Religion should play and is playing its part in the end of violence; it also continues to do good. Lets keep helping it do that. The Rev. Amy Pringle St. Georges Episcopal Church La Canada Flintridge Belief in God, religious belief, does not itself contribute to violence in the world. How people interpret scripture contributes to violence. Leviticus 19:18, Thou Shalt Love Thy Neighbor as Thyself, has been interpreted by fellow clergy as being ethnocentric on the grounds that people of the same religion live together in the same neighborhoods. Hence, you are only mandated to love people of your same religio/ethnic belief. Religio/political leaders also choose to ignore scripture in favor of political goals. Those who believe (in the Quran), and those who follow the Jewish (scriptures), and the Christians and the Sabians, (Zoroastrians) any who believe in God and the Last Day, and work righteousness, shall have their reward with their Lord: on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve Quran, Sura 2:62. How can a true believer make Jihad given the restrictions listed above? What we can do to counter texts that are incorrectly interpreted to advocate violence? Establish open dialogues between religious leaders who are knowledgeable about scripture, theirs and others, and make available to the general public speakers to discuss what in Hebrew is called PShat (simple linguistic) translations of formerly misinterpreted texts. As the Talmud says, The righteous of all nations have a portion in the World to Come (Tosefta, Sanhedrin13.2). So, let us do the right things to earn a deserved portion now and in the World To Come! Rabbi Mark Sobel Temple Beth Emet Burbank As the article from Church Times states the connection between violence and religion is complex and I agree. What makes this connection complex is the various religious traditions, cultures and political realities that are hard to measure into the equation Religion plus belief equals violence. I observe many people mistakenly assume that when acts of violence are done by those who claim they are doing it in the name of whatever religion, will point and say, You see? ___ promotes violence not peace. If you took the time to understand the core teachings of the religion, you would find there is more to it than that. I speak from the Christian perspective and in Christianity there is much debate upon when violence is appropriate and when it is not. Is there such a thing as a just war or violence that prevents further violence? There are Christian chaplains who serve in the military, who address the spiritual health of those who are serving their country. Jesus teaches us to love our enemy, so how can we apply that ethically to our military personnel that often have to be protective of our countrys freedom using violence? For some there is never justification of violence and we do others and ourselves much harm when we use violence. Others find that self-defense is a legitimate use of violence, still others feel when others are being harmed violence is necessary to restore order. As to what can be done to counter texts that appear to advocate violence in the name of religion, perhaps we need to put more weight in the other texts that are contrary to violence. For example: in Christianity, there are plenty of texts in the Bible used to justify violence. However, I believe Jesus calls us to love the Lord our God and our neighbors as ourselves. This is the key text that opens the door on all the other texts. Jesus teaches us that God created the world, and we are called to be caretakers of all creation, to love all of it, not to subdue it, abuse it and commit violence against it. Our neighbors may be those who live next door to us or live across the ocean, but their welfare and our welfare are dependent on one another. Acting out in violent ways hurts all of us. Many times we do violence to ourselves, through drug addiction or committing a crime that lands us in jail, cutting ourselves off from others or suicide. These are not loving acts but acts of violence contrary to what God calls us to do and be. We need to do the hard work of transforming the world from addiction to violence by starting with ourselves. By turning inward and listening to God we can find ways to heal what causes the violence to reign in our lives. Then we can work on bringing what we have learned to the outer world and resist the tendency to give into being violent. This is not easy work, nor will it always be clear what to do right away, but if we start with loving God, our neighbors and ourselves, we will find the way forward. Rev. Steve Poteete-Marshall Crescenta Valley United Methodist Church Montrose Regarding the poll about how the world would be a better place without religion, we mustnt forget that most of the worlds violence has been a result of not having religion to intervene or have any input. Remember the genocidal massacres of Chairman Mao numbering in the millions, the reigns of Lenin, Stalin and Khrushchev, numbering the same, and who can forget the Cambodian communist, Pol Pot, responsible for the infamous Killing Fields and the decimation of one-third his population? These were all godless, irreligious monstrosities that murdered wholesale for their own agendas. Communists are religionless, so its not religion, per se, thats responsible for Earths plenteous violence, its our myriad belief systems. Beliefs are what move believers to action. Does state-avowed godlessness, as in all communist regimes, result in world peace or death and destruction? I would argue the latter, and I would say that without the religion of Christianity, we wouldnt have the many hospitals, care facilities and charitable institutions we have, nor would evils such as slavery be essentially done away as it is now in the Western world. The whole notion of personal rights is stated in our nations Declaration of Independence wherein God grants these unalienable privileges, and without believing that we would be far more violent and untethered because there would be no reliable lawgiver. Many will try to make religion guilty of sin, by pointing to such as the KKK with their fiery crosses or the Nazis hailing from the birthplace of Protestantism, or one of the Crusades (though they originated to stop the Islamic invasion of Bible lands). It is one thing to commit violence in the name of some religion or to be wrongly associated with pure religion, and it is quite another to actually commit violence for religious purposes. There is no Christian injunction to do violence in this day for religious aims. The Bible says, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone (Rom 12:18). There are other religions today that implore their disciples to do violence, and there are political ideologies that do the same without any divine mandate, but its up to the world to sort these out and fight against them. There will never be a day without violence before the return of Christ because all of mankind is rife with sin and violence is in us all. But if not for godly religious restraint, we would all be murderous pirates and justifiably so. Rev. Bryan A. Griem Tujunga In a commentary on the survey report mentioned in our question, religious leaders describe what can be done to counter violence-inspiring texts, and I am happy to defer to these experts. They recommend providing historical context about real-life conflicts which may have given rise to violent language in writings from the time. These theologians also counsel readers of scripture to downplay or even ignore a rare violent phrase or two as not representing the overall message of the faith. We need not rely on subjective opinion because we actually have a good indication of how much violence is inspired by religion: Most violence has nothing to do with Islam or with any other faith. A recent article in the Journal of the American Medical Assn. on firearm deaths worldwide pointed out that 90% of all violent deaths, whether by firearms or by any other means, happen in the absence of any conflicts, whether political, economic, territorial or religious in origin. Violence is overwhelmingly an interpersonal problem, and all humans have a personal responsibility to counter it in ourselves and around us in any ways we can no matter what beliefs inspire us. Roberta Medford Atheist Montrose A recent New York Times opinion piece by Todd May suggests the human race may lead to its own extinction and that such a possibility would not necessarily be a bad thing. May, a professor of philosophy at Clemson University, says humans are destroying the environment and are a source of devastation of the lives of conscious animals on a scale that is difficult to comprehend. While acknowledging humanitys unique ability to create art and literature and pursue scientific endeavors that have put our species into outer space, he believes our capacity to change the world around us will ultimately lead to our own downfall. The extinction of humans would be tragic, he acknowledges, but also make the world better off. In an article countering the Times piece published in National Review, Jonathan S. Tobin calls Mays philosophical argument the stuff of satire. He compares doomsday environmentalism to religion and says predicting humanitys end as one of the consequences of global warming is an adaptation of biblical constructs about sin and punishment. Q. If humanity brought about its own end, would the Earth and surviving life forms be better off without us? The Bible addresses this question with absolute statements of fact about the future. Humanity will not bring about its own end or the Earths. Humanity lacks the capability. The sovereign, unchangeable plan of God is declared in 2 Peter 3:10: the day of the Lord will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be burned up. Humanity will endure until the Son of Man (Jesus Christ) comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before him; and he will separate them from one another, as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats; and he will put the sheep on his right, and the goats on the left. (Matthew 25:32-33). After this God will fulfill his promise in Isaiah 65:17: behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; and the former things will not be remembered or come to mind. People from every age who were redeemed by God will live with him on this new earth. Mankind is the crowning achievement of Gods creation. We are the only beings created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), created last on the sixth day, after which God pronounced, for the first time, that his creation was not just good, but very good. Having created man, God charged him to rule over every other living thing on the earth, to fill the earth, to subdue it, and to rule. An earth devoid of mankind would be strangely empty even if it teemed with every other form of life, like a dining table filled with guests but with the seat of honor left empty. People of faith do not fear doomsday. We eagerly anticipate the final day of the Lord in which he will proclaim, Behold, I am making all things new (Revelation 21:5). Pastor Jon Barta Burbank ... Yes, the Earth and its surviving life forms would be better off without humans unless we get serious about slowing global warming. Professor May suggests that our disappearance may not be tragic at all, because there would be no one to miss the vaulted achievements of humanity he mentions like art, literature and music. He also poses as a possible tragic loss our scientific advances, some of which have benefited nonhuman animals and the planet. But destroying our own species would to me show that we have caused more harm than good. Oops too late! As for Jonathan S. Tobin, I have no quarrel with likening what he calls doomsday environmentalism to a religion. Both are deeply held beliefs through which adherents find meaning and purpose in life. Believers speak of caring for the Earth as a tenet of religion, but environmentalists commonly associating that cause with biblical notions of sin and punishment doesnt ring true to me. National Review, for which Tobin writes, has a less than stellar record for accurate coverage of climate change and has been known to play fast and loose with the science. Contemplating the possibility of Earth without humans is no more the stuff of satire than is denying the full reality of climate change. The end of human life being discussed at all terrifies me. It also strengthens my resolve that we do the right thing locally by ending the burning of fossil fuel in Glendales power plant as soon as humanly possible. Roberta Medford Atheist Montrose ... The competing arguments above are in error. It is the difference of both, contrasted with that of godly saints who understand the point of it all. Though I might more agree with Tobin that environmentalism has become something of a religion, we Christians wont agree that the consequence of Earths-travails-demanding-mans-extinction is in any way biblical, nor would our demise be on account of our position at the top of the food chain and whether or not we use plastic straws or eat at Chick-fil-A. And when such writers point to animal extinctions as evidence of expendable mankind, let me point out that scientists agree that these were ongoing before we were ever a factor. Did we extinguish the dinosaurs? No, and did not Noah actually save the fauna of earth? Consider mans best friend; all the breeds of dogs are the work of man. From Dobermans to Dachshunds, these are the cultivated creatures of inventive human civilization. Should we depart, so shall these, and every Toto, Scooby, and Snoopy, will devolve back to a kind of primordial wolf (like the canine pair that presumably survived on the Great Diluvian Barge). Now imagine having a beautiful aquarium replete with exotic plants and collectible shells atop gorgeously polished gravel, a treasure chest that opens and closes with bubbles emanating from a ritzy filtration system, and all this illuminated by natural bulbs radiating to reflect upon some very rare and exotic tropical fish. Yet, there are no freakin fish! What would be the point of all these factors necessary for gilled swimmers to observably thrive, yet have none schooling about? This, is Earth. Without man, creation is abandoned to meaningless eating; the piranhas, the tigers, the carnivores against the vegetarians, mindlessly ignoring anthropocentric Earths extravagant resources. Is that it? No, everything is currently in its place to reflect God, and man at his best does this. Man at his worst does not, but then man at his worst denies Gods purpose and sees his fellow as nothing more than evolved and expendable protoplasm. One day, the Earth will be rid of these, and the godly remnant will flourish in peace with his maker (not to mention the plants and animals God specifically created for such). Rev. Bryan A. Griem MA, MDiv Tujunga ... This is a very interesting question to contemplate. First the big if stands out as an important part of the question. If humanity brought about its own end begs follow up questions: Are we bringing about our own end? We ignore all the warnings of those scientists who study how we are destroying our home planet. Films like Wall-E explore what would happen if we did destroy the planet, what would be left and how would the earth behave? But is the if here addressing the end of humanity not so much the planet or are the two the same? But this is not the question; the question is will the earth be better off without us? What I am stumbling on is the term better off. I am not sure if there is a better off, because I believe our creator knit together the universe and humanity. I believe we belong together, but if we somehow brought about our own end, God would recreate a new reality. However, I believe Gods heart would break at our end as a human race. Creation and the great creator would continue on and continue creating, and there would be a new reality, perhaps a new human race evolving. I dont agree that we should sacrifice humanity in any form but rather acknowledge the destruction of humanity in all its forms now and turn this around. We can be unified in this effort, believers and nonbelievers. Rev. Steve Poteete-Marshall Crescenta Valley United Methodist Church Montrose Tourists and residents strolling along Laguna Beachs Main Beach boardwalk Wednesday afternoon heard a bell ring, followed by a mans voice streaming from the lifeguard tower. This is the city of Laguna Beach testing the downtown outdoor warning system, the voice said. In certain emergencies, this system may be used to communicate important information. The notice sounded twice from the Main Beach location as well as from loudspeakers at Heisler Park and City Hall. Laguna Beachs emergency operations coordinator, Jordan Villwock, said the second message was to account for a power hiccup the first time. When we hit play, there was a little bit of a skipping, he said. Thats why we test ... to see the ins and outs. And Im glad it came out in the test. At the same time a few minutes after 3 p.m. an Amber alert-like test showed up on the cellphones of people within the boundaries of Laguna Beach. Laguna Beach emergency alert test. No action required, the message read. There also was a link to the Laguna Beach website requesting feedback about the test. Probably within five seconds of us pressing the send button the alert went out, Villwock said. That was pretty cool. It was the first test of the wireless emergency alert system since Laguna Beach last year became the first city in Orange County to access it, Villwock said. Other cities, such as Aliso Viejo which also tested its alert Wednesday have followed suit. The outdoor warning system was last tested a year ago. The city used the system Feb. 14 to alert downtown business owners to put up their floodgates when a storm drenched Laguna and destroyed part of a flood wall. Wednesdays wireless emergency alert test included a link to the Laguna Beach website, where the city is asking for feedback. (Photo by Faith E. Pinho) Abdul Almu, 53, had been in Laguna Beach for just 10 minutes when the emergency alert tests went off. Almu, his wife and three children had stepped out of their car after a three-day drive from Kansas City. He said he received the cellphone alert first and saw it was just a test. But when the loudspeakers sounded, he had a moment of panic. Because of the wind, I thought there was an actual emergency, said Almu, who was wrapped in a windbreaker to protect against Wednesdays strong beach breeze. But when I heard that its just a test we calmed down. Serena Li, 29, was visiting from the eastern Chinese province of Anhui when the alerts went off. She was standing on the corner of Ocean Avenue and South Coast Highway, taking photos and videos of birds swooping over the boardwalk. When the voice came over the loudspeaker, she thought something had happened. She had never heard an alert like it before but thought the system would be effective in a real emergency. The sound will ... warn you something will happen and get together, Li said. Better than if you dont know anything. Villwock said he was happy with the tests. Of the nearly 2,700 responses to the survey in the cellphone alert, 98.5% said once-a-year testing is acceptable, he said. Keroy Fields, 42, who has been staying in Laguna Beach for a few months, was sitting on a bench along the boardwalk, playing tunes on a recorder just before the outdoor warning sounded. He said he didnt think it would have been very useful in a real emergency. I think it needs to be louder, because people along the beach I dont know if they would have heard it, he said. Villwock said the city purposely didnt use the intense and attention-grabbing tones that would be used during a real emergency. Laguna Beach has several warning systems for various levels of emergencies. In addition to the wireless emergency alert and the downtown loudspeakers, the city can use AlertOC, an Orange County system that sends messages to landline phones in case of a life-or-death emergency. The city also can ask the county to activate its Emergency Alert System to issue countywide warnings on AM and FM radio and TV. Lagunas community alert system gives a variety of notices from traffic advisories to flood watches to residents who sign up. The city also is discussing possibly expanding the outdoor warning system to blast messages citywide. As expected, the Newport Beach City Council backs only minimal changes to general aviation facilities at John Wayne Airport. The council unanimously agreed Tuesday to direct the mayor to send a letter to the Orange County Board of Supervisors asking it to adopt a plan for private aircraft that keeps departure frequency the same and doesnt add a proposed new terminal. The county owns and operates the airport. The county, meanwhile, prefers an infrastructure enhancement plan that includes updated buildings and airfield roads to comply with current Federal Aviation Administration standards, as well as adding a terminal for noncommercial flights. The proposed terminal the airport currently has terminals only for commercial service also would house a separate, fee-based screening facility for international travelers flying privately. I think the thing that I know Im most concerned about, our mayor is most concerned about, our aviation [committee] and our community groups, is the impact that these changes have on the quality of life in our city. Thats the bottom line, said Councilman Jeff Herdman, who chairs the citys Aviation Committee. Weve dealt with the blight of the airport for 30 years in this city. Just dont do anything else to us; weve had enough. The city has previously said it will support any plan that maintains the existing level of general aviation operations or related support facilities and noise regulations and oppose significant changes. The Aviation Committee also backed the minimal impact plan. General aviation covers the smaller, nonscheduled, private aircraft from single-engine turboprop planes to corporate jets. John Wayne has about 50 general aviation departures a day. Under the countys preferred plan, general aviation departures would increase to 55 per day. Under the citys preferred plan, it would stay at 50. Noise monitors along the takeoff route show that the average business jet is only about 2 decibels lower than the quietest airline, Southwest. General aviation pilots can come and go around the clock, while commercial carriers must adhere to a curfew that bars nighttime activity. Resident Maxine Maly urged the council to take legal action, if necessary. If these loud private jets are allowed to fly 24/7 over Newport Beach the quality of our lives will be adversely impacted because we wont be able to sleep at night without disruption, she said. Our home values will plummet as you destroy the appeal of Newport Beach to both residents and tourists. Mayor Diane Dixon, Orange County Supervisor Michelle Steel and airport representatives will hold a town hall meeting at the Newport Beach Civic Center covering flight paths, noise and general aviation improvements from 10 a.m. to noon April 6. Council names Steering Committee members In other business, the council unanimously added James Carlson, an architect who previously served on the Orange County Airport Land Use Commission for eight years, and Catherine OHara, who worked in the planning departments in Huntington Beach and San Clemente before becoming a consultant, to the citys General Plan Update Steering Committee. The committee gives input on a request for proposals from consultants that would prepare the updated general plan, the citys long-term planning and development guideline. The committee next meets on March 20. From young children and their families in Laguna Beach to high school students in Huntington Beach and college seniors at UC Irvine, young people gathered at rallies across Orange County and elsewhere Friday to demand more be done to fight climate change. They joined others participating in a global Youth Climate Strike started by 16-year-old Swedish activist Greta Thurnberg, who drew international attention with her speech at the United Nations in December accusing diplomats of inaction. Groups in Laguna, Huntington and Irvine rallied for public awareness and policy changes, including support for the Green New Deal outlined by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.). Gianna Lum, president of the UC Irvine student club Climatepedia, called for the university to better promote conversations about climate change solutions, provide better education about mitigation and speed up zero-emissions efforts. Climate action is essential for the health and safety of people all around the world, Lum said. It is an issue of social justice, public health and economics that needs to be addressed and integrated into public policies. A group of youths and some adults gathered on Lagunas Main Beach at 7:30 a.m. to join in the protest. They held signs reading There is no Planet B and Be nice to your mother (Earth)! Roger Gloss, 73, deputy chairman of the Orange County chapter of the Climate Reality Project, said about 50 people showed up in Laguna. He said its important to see how much power a young persons voice can have. If adults have failed to listen to anybody in this country, they might listen to young people, Gloss said. In Huntington Beach, students bearing signs gathered at City Hall after a march to the pier. They had skipped morning classes to participate. What is school going to be if there was no planet to live on in 20 years? said Marina High School senior Marcus Kolpin, 18. Kolpin said he attended the rally because he was too young to vote in the 2018 election and that 2020 is too long to wait. We want to be heard, he said. Its our planet too and we should have a say. School officials in Huntington Beach could not be reached for immediate comment. UC Irvine students and other community members gather Friday on campus to protest climate change. Speakers called for the university to step up climate change initiatives and for policymakers to support legislation such as the Green New Deal. (Photo by Faith E. Pinho) Andrew Tankovich, a lecturer in UC Irvines English department, said he saw the UCI rally as a student-led response to a university symposium last month called Fire and Ice: The Shifting Narrative of Climate Change. I think the last two years have seen a remarkable upswing in student activism at this campus, said Tankovich, who has worked at the university for 20 years. It thrills me, frankly. Earl Zeimann, a teacher and social-studies department head at Marina High, agreed. He said the Youth Climate Strike was the second time in the past year that he has seen students protesting the last time was the 2018 March for Our Lives to advocate increased gun control. They seem to be waking up to the fact that its their future, said Zeimann, who noticed about 10 absences from his classes Friday. I think they fear that that futures not going to be so good if they dont start becoming more active. Editors note: This column includes a graphic description of a rape. In March 1973, more than three months before the body of 11-year-old Lincoln Intermediate student Linda Ann OKeefe was found in Newport Beachs Back Bay, a young Lincoln teacher was working late at the Corona del Mar school. She was in a good mood. Earlier in the day, she had delivered a St. Patrick-themed comedy routine to the staff in the teachers lounge. As evening approached, she hopped in her new green Ford Pinto wagon, stopped for dinner, then headed home. After parking in the garage of the apartment building where she lived, she stepped out of the car, but was roughly thrust back inside. An arm wrapped tightly around her neck. This is real, a mans voice told her. Shut the door and shut up. He began beating her and tearing her clothes off, then used her jeans and blouse to restrain her. With her top wrapped around her head, she gasped for breath. If she didnt comply, he threatened, he would kill her. Then he raped her. As her body was brutalized, her mind struggled to find a way to survive. She tried talking to her assailant, pleading, cajoling anything to appeal to his humanity. He began to choke her. Certain she was about to die, she told him that she was planning to participate in a March of Dimes walk-a-thon that weekend and she had to live so that she could go with her students. Suddenly, he loosened his grip, opened the door and left. The young woman stumbled upstairs to her apartment, where her roommate called the police. She spent the next several hours in a hospital emergency room, and described every detail of the assault to authorities. Her attacker was never caught. That woman was named Claire Ryan Miss Ryan to her sixth-grade students but legions of students and parents have known her for decades by her married name, Mrs. Ratfield. By the time of her retirement from Lincoln two years ago, she had long been revered as a passionate, masterful educator who strives to mine the gold in every student. Claire Ryan Ratfield taught both of my sons in the sixth grade at Lincoln, which had by then been converted to an elementary school. I consider her a dear friend. Why do I now relate this story of a savage attack on a beloved teacher? Because after the murder of OKeefe in August 1973, Ratfield had been contacted by Newport Beach police, who told her they were exploring whether the cases could be connected. As recently as about six years ago she was told by authorities that they had not ruled out a potential link. And just last week Ratfield let me know that Newport police had requested her rape kit from the Orange County Sheriffs Department, but detectives did not know whether it still, in fact, exists. Now the OKeefe case is back in the news. An arrest was finally made in February, and when Ratfield heard about it she immediately called Newport police to offer her assistance. Heather Rangel, the NBPDs press information officer, said that the department is not releasing any further information on the OKeefe case at this time but welcomes calls from anyone who might be a witness. She would not confirm whether police see a connection between the two cases. The suspect in custody for the girls death, James Alan Neal, 72, formerly known as James Albert Layton Jr., was identified through DNA technology that was unavailable back in the 1970s. He was arrested in Colorado Springs, Colo. He faces charges of special-circumstances murder, kidnapping and lewd and lascivious acts on a minor under 14. And new charges related to two sexual assaults in Riverside County one between 1995 and 2000 and another between 2002 and 2004 were levied against him Wednesday. After she was assaulted, Ratfield struggled. While she was grateful to be alive, she was also riddled with guilt survivors guilt particularly when she learned about OKeefe. Depressed and traumatized, she sought healing through an avocation that had always called to her: comedy. She took a class in stand-up comedy taught by the famed comic George Carlin, and started performing at clubs throughout Los Angeles and Orange counties, working with such comedic icons as Robin Williams and David Letterman. That was my therapy, she said. It transformed everything I did. I became existentialist, living life to the max. She also used her comic skills to inform her teaching. Ratfield was well-known for utilizing humor in the classroom, as a means to connect with students, to add nuance and depth to her lessons, and to infuse her renowned student musical productions with bursts of creativity. And throughout her career at Lincoln, she continued to crack up her colleagues in the teachers lounge. Retirement hasnt dimmed Ratfields boundless energy. She is back on the stage, performing regular gigs at the Harp Inn Irish Pub in Costa Mesa, and she recently auditioned for Americas Got Talent. An educational foundation that she started to train teachers in cutting-edge techniques is another one of her passion projects. Ratfield is well aware that, despite the break in the OKeefe case, the chances of achieving some resolution in her own case remain slim. She can live with that, she said. This resilient woman found her way back from the dark through humor. We who have learned from her and laughed with her are grateful that she did. Patrice Apodaca is a former Los Angeles Times staff writer, and is the coauthor of A Boy Named Courage: A Surgeons Memoir of Apartheid. She lives in Newport Beach. What do a Michelin two-star restaurant in Chicago and a taco catering company in Laguna Beach have in common? For restaurant operator Alexa Welsh, they both posed a mental challenge. Im scratched, Im bruised, Im exhausted, Im burned its, like, not a glamorous job whatsoever, said Welsh, 41, general manager and operator of Lagunas Rasta Taco. But its this really complicated little puzzle that I keep trying to figure out, and thats what keeps me entertained. Welsh visited Laguna Beach for the first time a year ago to check out the taco shop on the corner of Beach Street and Ocean Avenue. She had no plans to move. She was living in Chicago at the time and had recently closed 42 Grams, the Michelin-studded restaurant she opened in 2014 with her then-husband, chef Jake Bickelhaupt. The establishment was born from a dining experience Bickelhaupt and Welsh began hosting in their home in 2011. The first time they hosted a dinner, two friends and two family members gathered in their dining room for six courses. Within three years, the weekend dinners had transformed into an exclusive fine-dining restaurant in uptown Chicago. They served at least a half-dozen courses per meal for about 24 people a night. Each person paid around $200. Welsh was reservationist, host, server, accountant, communications director and all-around operations manager, while Bickelhaupt oversaw the food. Meanwhile, filmmaker Jack Newell followed them around with a camera, gathering clips for a documentary he made about Welsh and Bickelhaupts evolution from underground kitchen to brick-and-mortar restaurant. He released the film in 2017. One of the things you get to experience when you watch the documentary is this crazy ride alongside Alexa and Jake as they go from being insurgents to being one of the best restaurants in the world, Newell said Friday in a Facebook message from Ethiopia, where he is working on his next documentary. It could sound cliched if it wasnt true that its a real underdog story. Welsh said 42 Grams was the coming together of two souls to create something. The name was predicated on a theory that each human soul weighs 21 grams. In less than a year after opening in January 2014, 42 Grams earned two coveted Michelin stars. Reservations stacked up months ahead of time. It was kind of surreal, Welsh said. We had done something pretty friggin cool. But soon after their marriage fell apart in 2017, 42 Grams did as well. The restaurant closed abruptly in June 2017 after a physical attack on Welsh for which Bickelhaupt pleaded guilty to battery. Welsh became more vocal about general abuses in the restaurant industry and called kitchens boys clubs. After taking a few months to relax and recuperate, Welsh, a Pennsylvania native, was planning to move back to Texas, which she considers her home state. Then she received a private message on Instagram. I remember exactly, it was a couple of simple words: Do you want to run a taco shop in Laguna Beach? said Mario Melendez, owner of the Rasta Taco restaurant and catering company and two Rasta Rita beverage catering trucks. That was it. It wasnt even Hello, he said with a laugh. Alexa Welsh stands next to the colorful Rasta Taco van in Laguna Beach. (Don Leach / Staff Photographer) Melendez had just finished watching the 42 Grams documentary on a flight back to California from Rasta Tacos second location in Jamaica. He wanted Welsh on his team, but he knew it was a long shot. Of course I was not expecting a response, he said. I just figured I would throw it up to the universe and see what happened. But I certainly was hoping. I liked her style and I recognized her talent. To his surprise, Welsh wrote back asking for more details. The two chatted for the next several weeks, and then Welsh flew to California in March 2018 to consult for Rasta Taco for a few months. Mario just came around at about the right time, she said. I said, Lets take a peek under the hood and see whats going on. Soon she was working full time as the taco shops operations manager. Welsh reordered Rasta Tacos kitchen operations, pored over its financial books and revamped the menu. Melendez said he had always been deficient in restaurant operations and needed a strategic partner. The whole thing was really just an evolution based on need, Welsh said. When I got here, I was like, Look, you need a lot. Theres a lot that needs to happen here. Business at the restaurant, which has only outdoor seating, has flagged somewhat during the recent rains, but the pair has high hopes for the future. With her onboard, the possibilities are endless, Melendez said. It will be months before the Glendale City Council is expected to take up the debate about whether or not to allow electric scooters in the city, but it hasnt stopped the efforts of at least one resident calling for their outright ban. Tony Passarella was handing out fliers on Tuesday in the Pacific Community Centers auditorium, where the Glendale City Council held a special City Council in Your Neighborhood meeting. At the top of the flier was an illustration of a scooter covered by the international no symbol. The council meeting was only informational, meaning no action was taken, and nothing related to electric scooters was on the agenda, save for a general traffic safety presentation by the Glendale Police Department. However, it didnt stop Passarella from speaking out on the issue during the public-comment portion of the meeting, criticizing companies like Bird and Lime for pouring hundreds of millions of dollars into making electric scooters appear as an environmentally friendly alternative to driving. These dockless scooters are basically a sale job, a con job by Silicon Valley, he said. Micro-mobility, last mile I mean, you cant walk a mile? Its really nonsense as far as Im concerned. He also said allowing the companies to operate would see sidewalks in Glendale littered with scooters, causing a potential hazard for people in wheelchairs or who are blind. Electric or dockless scooters have started being used all across Southern California, from Santa Monica to San Diego and even parts of unincorporated Los Angeles County. The only requirements to ride scooters are a smartphone and credit card. The appearance of scooters has given rise to safety concerns for both pedestrians and riders. Cities are left figuring out how to respond to scooters blocking sidewalks and driveways as well as riders zipping through pedestrians and traffic at speeds up to 15 mph often without a helmet. Cities like Beverly Hills and West Hollywood instituted bans, while some companies, like Bird, created no-ride zones, where its scooters are prohibited. Los Angeles even limited the number of scooters that can be placed in the city as a stop-gap solution last year, while leaders figured out a more long-term option. Electric scooters have yet to be officially deployed in Glendale, although that has not stopped riders from bringing them in from neighboring locales. Dan Bell, a Glendale spokesman, said its premature to talk about scooters because city staff members are still working on a request for proposal, where companies can submit their plans for how the vehicles would be deployed locally. The issue is not expected to go before the City Council until sometime this spring. The council previously brought up scooters during a Dec. 18 special meeting, where the request originated. The meeting saw the discussion of a one-year pilot program that would cap the number of scooters in the city at 1,000 and establish operating hours for them. The pilot program would also look at the possible establishment of designated scooter parking spots and outline a boundary for where they would be allowed to operate within the city. andy.nguyen@latimes.com Twitter: @Andy_Truc There are excellent lesson plans and then there are master classes. Glendale High School students instructed by teacher Amy Rangel are used to the first but were treated to the second on Wednesday afternoon. Eighteen current and alumni trombonists from the schools three jazz bands, led by Rangel, took part in a lesson, discussion and tutorial hosted by professional jazz musician Nick Finzer. The New York-based trombonist was on spring break from a teaching position at the University of North Texas and was scheduled to play at the Blue Whale Bar in Little Tokyo that evening. Before his performance, however, Finzer shared his expertise with a group of students a little younger and peppier than he normally sees. Its always super fun because there is a lot energy and a lot of enthusiasm for just making sound and having fun and playing music, Finzer said of Rangels students. He said that, sometimes, university students can be very serious. Being with this group reminds me of when I first got excited about music and jazz, he added. Finzer spoke of legends, such as John Coltrane and Miles Davis, from whom he drew inspiration, along with mentors and teachers such as JJ Johnson, Curtis Fuller and Joe Alessi. No one, however, had as significant an impact on his life as jazz icon Duke Ellington. I wanted to be a classical trombonist, and I played youth symphonies and all that stuff growing up, and I thought that was the route I was going to take, Finzer told the students. When I found the music of Duke Ellington, it really changed my whole outlook on music and eventually my life and led me down a whole new path, he added. Finzer pulled out his King Trombone 3B Plus model and performed Ellingtons Single Petal of a Rose, written in 1958 for Queen Elizabeth II. At the conclusion of playing the song, Finzer asked students what they heard during his performance. Some mentioned multiphonics, others dynamics, and one spoke of the rubato rhythmic playing. Finzer then gave the group a piece of advice. The most important part of playing any instrument, whether its the trombone or otherwise, is going to be developing a really good sound, he said. Students later played their trombones as a group under Finzers direction, while senior Daron Bedrossian was the lone young musician to have a one-on-one session with the jazz trombonist. Finzer also said improvement would come through listening to as much music as possible. The key point is youre not going to learn music in a vacuum, and you have to listen, he said. Finzers appearance at Glendale High was due to help from Bertrands Music of Burbank. Sometimes, we just get opportunities like this, Bertrand manager Wendy Stackhouse said. Manufacturers let us know when their artists are going to be around, and we try to match them up with schools that will appreciate it. Finzers appearance was the culmination of a big week for Rangel, a Burbank resident. The Grammy Music Educator Award finalist won a Teacher of Excellence Award from the Country Music Assn. Foundation on Monday. The honor includes a trip to Nashville in late April and $5,000 in grant funds. I want my students to be inspired by not just playing trombone, but the style of music that [Finzer] plays, Rangel said. I want them to see that good things can happen if they put some time and energy into it. You never know whats going to come out of this room. Glendale High sophomore Kelli Bayona said she felt revitalized. I felt like I learned a lot, especially with the sound, Bayona said. I always felt like I was a little bit off whenever I played. After today, I feel like I learned a lot more, and I can fix whatever I need to fix. Alcohol, drugs and an argument during a night of partying were allegedly a prelude to a fatal shooting in Glendale last June, according to court testimony. Suisun City resident Laquan Dontae Parker, 25, and 26-year-old Brandon Jamal Perkins of Stockton were in court Thursday afternoon for the first day of preliminary hearings stemming from the June 25 shooting death of Phillip Niles Jr. The shooting occurred near an apartment complex in the 1700 block of North Verdugo Road around 3:30 a.m. after Niles allegedly got into an argument with Parkers girlfriend, 18-year-old Dezerae Lyons, and another 18-year-old woman named Daniela Elaine Love. Both Lyons and Love testified Thursday that the argument occurred after Niles found out the two were pornographic actors. Dezerae and Philip got into a fight because [he] was calling her a whore, and I was telling his friend to calm him down because we were having fun, Love said. Join the conversation on Facebook >> 1 / 6 Glendale police investigate the scene where a man was found shot to death on a front yard on the 1600 block of The Midway St. in Glendale on Saturday morning, June 25, 2016. (Raul Roa / Staff Photographer) 2 / 6 Glendale police investigate the scene where a man was found shot to death on a front yard on the 1600 block of The Midway St. in Glendale on Saturday morning, June 25, 2016. (Raul Roa / Staff Photographer) 3 / 6 Glendale police investigate the scene where a man was found shot to death on a front yard on the 1600 block of The Midway St. in Glendale on Saturday morning, June 25, 2016. (Raul Roa / Staff Photographer) 4 / 6 Glendale police investigate the scene where a man was found shot to death on a front yard on the 1600 block of The Midway St. in Glendale on Saturday morning, June 25, 2016. (Raul Roa / Staff Photographer) 5 / 6 Glendale police investigate the scene where a man was found shot to death on a front yard on the 1600 block of The Midway St. in Glendale on Saturday morning, June 25, 2016. (Raul Roa / Staff Photographer) 6 / 6 Glendale police investigate the scene where a man was found shot to death on a front yard on the 1600 block of The Midway St. in Glendale on Saturday morning, June 25, 2016. (Raul Roa / Staff Photographer) The women separately testified that all three had met for the first time that Friday at the Argyle nightclub in Hollywood. Lyons and Love had only communicated on social media beforehand, while Niles encountered them for the first time at the club while out with friends. Love testified that she, Lyons, Niles and his friends were drinking heavily that night. She said Lyons and Niles were also making out with one another which was corroborated by Lyons. The group then moved from the club to an apartment in Glendale where a friend of Niles was living. First, when we got there, everything was cool Lyons said. We were just chilling, drinking and then [Niles] whipped out coke We did a lot of coke that night. Lyons said the night spiraled out once Love mentioned the two women worked in the pornography industry, which led to Niles throwing insults at them. After arguing for 45 minutes, Lyons said she called Parker to pick her and Love up at the apartment. The women then left the complex with Niles following behind, continuing the argument, Lyons said. When they came to the street, they found an empty car belonging to Lyons parked near the apartment. After Lyons and Love got into the car Lyons said in court that Parker and Perkins emerged from some nearby bushes with guns drawn. Niles then confronted the two men. Laquan Dontae Parker, 24, of Stockton, and Brandon Jamal Perkins, 26, of Suisun City, pleaded not guilty to murder and other charges, in connection with the fatal shooting of a 25-year-old man in Glendale. (Courtesy of the Los Angeles County district attorneys office) First, they were just talking, but Phillip was just the word Im going to use is turnt up. He was really coked out, Lyons testified. Right away, he was being really racist, acting crazy and just really making bad comments. Police first received reports of gunfire in the neighborhood around 4 a.m. Glendale Police Sgt. Robert William previously said Niles was shot multiple times and ran a short distance before collapsing in front of a home in the 1600 block of the Midway Street. Parker and Perkins were apprehended later that day and were each charged with one count of murder, possession of a firearm by a felon with prior convictions and carrying a loaded stolen firearm, according to the Los Angeles County district attorneys office. The two had been picked up at a hotel in Monrovia where they were staying with Lyons. Two handguns were recovered from the scene, police said. While Love couldnt recall what happened during the confrontation between the men and who did the shooting, Lyons said Parker was the only one who fired a gun while Perkins watched. I heard five gunshots [Parker] just got in the car like nothing and we literally just drove away, Lyons said. I feel like me and Daniela were the only ones in shock Nobody else seemed to care that that just happened. Nicholas Tucker, an acquaintance of Niles who was at the club and whose apartment the group went to, disputed parts of the womens testimonies. He said in court Friday that Niles and Lyons were not intimate with one another and denied anyone was doing drugs in his apartment. Tucker admitted that people were drinking heavily and smoking from a hookah but there was no cocaine involved. He also said the argument between Niles and one of the girls, he couldnt recall which one, was just bickering back and forth that lasted only a few minutes. During his testimony, Tucker repeatedly said Niles was confused and frustrated that night but couldnt say the exact reason why. He also said he didnt know why Niles left the apartment. Several more witnesses testified over the two days, including police officers who responded to the shooting and a nearby bystander. Parker and Perkins are scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 28 for a pretrial conference. If convicted, the pair face 50 years to life in prison, and each is being held in lieu of $3-million bail. -- To read the article in Spanish, click here Andy Nguyen, andy.nguyen@latimes.com Twitter: @Andy_Truc Members of the La Canada Flintridge City Council took issue with the Planning Department Tuesday night when, during the latest study session on the citys draft historic preservation ordinance, they learned that staff is still using an age threshold in determining the historical significance of structures in the city. After more than an hour of discussion, the council agreed to come back next month with a resolution to address the original list of already historically designated properties before further codifying the ordinance. They also expect to learn at the time new estimates for a consultant to do an in-depth windshield survey of all the potential historic properties in the city. A major incentive for property owners to preserve historic structures is the possibility of receiving Mills Act designation and taking advantage of the state incentives program designed to encourage the restoration and preservation of such properties. Qualifying properties approved by the City Council pay reduced property taxes. In 2015, city officials approved increasing tax breaks for homeowners who registered their historic property under the Mills Act, providing property tax deductions. The city has considered Mills Act applications on a case-by-case basis, requiring owners to conduct a historical analysis for all properties over 50 years of age when a permit for construction is sought. Given that there are thousands of such properties in a city where a post-World War II building boom took place, the 50-year threshold is considered by some to be overly broad, forcing unwanted delays in remodeling. The city has grappled with historic preservation since a March 2014 preservation report card issued by the Los Angeles Conservancy gave La Canada and 50 other cities in Los Angeles County a failing grade, in part, for its lack of an established preservation program. Last October, a mayors subcommittee was formed to create an inventory of historic places in La Canada and adopt regulations that would catch and potentially preserve valuable homes before they were demolished. According to Planning Department staff, they prepared a mitigation monitoring plan in conjunction with the citys forthcoming general plan update, which requires action be taken to mitigate the potential loss of a possible historic resource in the city. Due to concerns about the 50-year trigger for determining if a structure is historically significant which encompasses approximately 5,500 structures in the city staff and the subcommittee considered increasing the commonly used age threshold. According to their most recent report, there are approximately 80 properties already recognized as historic. A second potential historic properties list was created of approximately 100 homes, and more could be added as they are discovered. Mayor Terry Walker took issue with the draft ordinance, noticing the language in the penalties section stood out more than any incentives available to homeowners for historic designation. Walker called the draft ordinance very restrictive, citing a previously packed council meeting where people voiced strong opposition to penalties. I thought we were making a list to notify them and build incentives. I dont like direction were going in. Director of Community Development Robert Stanley said his department is taking the past direction of the City Council, and for every home coming into the Planning Department, they are preparing a historical report. This was trying to take us away from that process, he said about the staff and subcommittees work on the mitigation monitoring plan. Then once we decided on this ordinance, we can amend the general plan with it. While City Atty. Mark Steres said he did not see any complaints from property owners whose projects have been delayed while a historic review is underway, Councilmen Greg Brown and Jon Curtis maintained there have been some. Theyre scared to talk to staff because they think the staff may do something against them if they come back, Curtis said. Lanterman House annual report received Also at Tuesdays meeting, the council agenda listed in its consent calendar to receive and file the Lanterman House Museum annual report. The conditional use permit governing the museums operation requires annual review by the city to determine that conditions of approval are still being met. The report indicates 428 fewer visitors than last year and cites a combination of a loss of a partner in events, the recently folded Jewel City Choir, and lower overall attendance attributed to hot summer and fall months. Stanley to retire, Koleda to step in In other news, it was announced it was Stanleys final City Council meeting as director of community development. He plans to retire on April 30 after more than 21 years serving the community. Deputy Director of Community Development Susan Koleda accepted an offer to take over for Stanleys position, beginning May 1. Matt Sanderson is a contributing writer to Times Community News. La Canada planning commissioners this week recommended two homes be considered for Mills Act contracts, which offer owners of historically significant properties a tax break in exchange for a commitment to restore and preserve their homes. If the La Canada Flintridge City Council approves the properties at 4852 Ocean View Boulevard and 5147 Jarvis Avenue the total number of such homes would rise to 16, according to city staff. The program was begun in 2012 as a way to incentivize historic preservation and is already drawing out the unique tales and characters behind La Canadas most storied homes. Its a voluntary program, and some people actually seek out a house like that, said city planner Harriet Harris, whos worked on Mills Act applications in the past. If you dont have designs on demolishing something and starting from scratch, then theres a value. Sometimes properties are notable for the architects who built them La Canada contains homes built by Wallace Neff, pioneer of the California style, architect to the stars Paul Revere Williams and Lloyd Wright, son of Frank Lloyd Wright. In other cases, properties are known for famous occupants or for being classic examples of a distinct style or period. The two properties before the planning commission this week each tell a tale of an earlier time and give a clue to La Canadas contribution to Southern California design and the states rich history. 4852 Ocean View Blvd. Alex Ko, who immigrated from South Korea 30 years ago, has always had a fascination with old, interesting homes. So when he attended an open house for a stately Ocean View Boulevard home modeled after a Scottish hunting lodge, he was enchanted by what he saw. Built in 1934 by Albert E. Hansen, who also designed Glendale City Hall, the 2,800-square-foot home features a stone exterior, leaded glass windows, wood beam ceilings and period hardware throughout. I just fell in love with it the first time I saw it, Ko recalled in an interview Tuesday. When I noted its history, and how the architect was known in the area, I wanted to preserve it. The original owner of the property was J. Leslie Barneson, Austrailian-born son of Scottish ship Captain John Barneson, who transported troops across the Pacific during the Spanish-American War and built the first oil pipeline in California, records indicate. The home was built as an homage by the younger Barneson and wife La Vere, and its construction was rated special, by the county assessor, indicating the highest-quality materials. As its sixth owner, Ko took over the property from a family that had lived there since 1965. Its been neglected in recent years, but Ko vows to restore it to its former glory. I have every intention of keeping it original, he told commissioners Tuesday. I want to be part of its legacy. 5147 Jarvis Ave. Will and Claudia Ferguson both grew up in houses built in the 1930s hers in the Oakland area and his in New Jersey that bred in them a deep appreciation for the oddities and historic details such houses often contain. When the couple came across the Jarvis property, built in 1929 by contractor Morris Nelson in the French Tudor style but with an interior filled with rich examples of Spanish design, they were hooked. It was like going back to our childhoods, and we were like, We really need to live here, Claudia Ferguson recalled in an interview. They bought the property in 2014 and were in the process of remodeling when, on Sept. 10 of that year, some rags leftover from a renovation spontaneously combusted and caused a fire that nearly gutted the property. When a tile expert came to salvage some Spanish tile, he spoke with enthusiasm about the many important pieces remaining, and the couple became inspired to restore the property as best they could with period fixtures and materials. Along the way, they built relationships with history-savvy shop owners whod call them with a find that would fit the Jarvis home perfectly. Its really been kind of cool, this whole adventure to put this back together, Claudia Ferguson said. When we were done we thought we really should preserve this house because its almost 100 years old, and it should stay here. On Tuesday, Will Ferguson thanked commissioners for their consideration. We love the home, he said. Its been a journey to get back. The next stop for the properties is the City Council, which is anticipated to vote on the matter before a Dec. 31 county assessors office deadline. sara.cardine@latimes.com Twitter: @SaraCardine Santa Anita and the Thoroughbred Owners of California reached an agreement Saturday that will allow the track to reopen racing March 29. Santa Anita has been closed since March 5 after a dramatic rise in horse deaths, which is at 22 since Dec. 26. While speculation was that racing could resume as soon as Friday, there was always the issue of getting the deal approved by the California Horse Racing Board. There was a CHRB meeting originally scheduled Thursday, but these medication changes were not listed on the docket and did not meet a 10-day public notification period. Chuck Winner, CHRB chairman, late Saturday decided to move the meeting a week so as to meet all the legal rules regarding public notice. Initially, all race-day Lasix was to be prohibited, under a proposal by the Stronach Group, which owns and runs Santa Anita. But the compromise position is that it will be applied only to 2018 foals, or horses that wont race until next year. Horses currently on Lasix will be allowed to continue to receive the medication on race day but in a maximum dosage of 5cc, instead of the 10cc currently allowed. Advertisement Sign up for our horse racing newsletter [Race-day Lasix] far and away was the biggest topic of conversation from top to finish, said Greg Avioli, TOC president and CEO. But [this compromise] was unanimously approved by the TOC board. And we had a call of 250 TOC members and no one objected to it. The TOC originally told membership on a conference call that racing would resume this Friday. But the final deal had not been signed off on by Belinda Stronach, president and chairman of the Stronach Group. Whatever rules that can be in place legally, will be in place, but some [that are not yet legal] will not, Avioli said. However, it became clear that Stronach wanted all the new rules in place before racing would resume. This is a complete revision of the current medication policy for thoroughbred racing, Stronach said in a statement late Saturday. TSG is committed to the principles of safe horse racing for both equine and human athletes and to making California the best in the world. The initial plan did not mention Stronach properties Gulfstream Park in South Florida and Laurel Park in Maryland, only Santa Anita and Golden Gate Fields. However, on Saturday she said, TSG will begin consultation with our stakesholders in other states to put these standards into effect in those jurisdictions. Other changes were announced, such as those that affect claiming races at Santa Anita. It is eliminating races below $10,000 claiming and also maiden claiming for $16,000 and $20,000. There are no changes of a similar kind at Golden Gate Fields. Those horses could leave Santa Anita for Golden Gate. Another change agreed upon by the trainers is that Butazolidin, used commonly to reduce pain and inflammation, can now only be given 48 hours before a race instead of 24 hours. Many of Californias medication rules exceed those internationally. However, almost all countries outside of the U.S. do not allow race-day medication, such as Lasix. Last year, only 3.6% of horses in the U.S. did not start with Lasix. Our members want to get back to racing and we thought this was a compromise that was worth endorsing, said Alan Balch, executive director of the California Thoroughbred Trainers. Nobody involved in these negotiations got everything they wanted. But were pleased reasonable people got together and reached an agreement that we can endorse going forward. On the call with TOC members, Avioli said that there were 140 horses ready to leave California this weekend if racing did not soon resume in Southern California. I believe that once we realized collectively what was at risk for not doing a deal, we made a deal, Avioli said. It was pretty clear the track was not reopening if there wasnt [a deal] and people were ready to leave the state. Another rule that will go in effect when the track reopens is not allowing jockeys the use of the whip unless for safety reasons. Currently a jockey can use the whip three times in succession before having to allow the horse a chance to respond. Times staff writer Eric Sondheimer contributed to this story. Click here (or type in this url: lat.ms/2wVt90g) to sign up for our free horse racing newsletter. sports@latimes.com In the manifesto that has been identified with the suspect in the mass shooting in Christchurch, New Zealand, the writer says he identifies most closely with Chinas political and social values. That has caught peoples attention in China, sparking discussion of whether Chinas ethnic policies could have inspired a terrorist. On Weibo, a Chinese platform similar to Twitter thats censored so only tacitly state-approved posts remain online, dozens of posts blamed Western media for negative portrayals of China. What he appreciated is what Western media is propagating about our management of Muslims in Xinjiang, one user wrote, according to Whats On Weibo, a website that monitors Chinese social media. He was influenced by the foreign media disseminating that were anti-Muslim. Advertisement China has been widely criticized for its crackdown on Muslim minorities in Xinjiang province in the countrys northwest; the government maintains that it is fighting terrorism. On Twitter, a wider discussion took place among Chinese users who can bypass state Internet controls; many live outside of China. Some pointed to the Xinjiang policies as ethnic supremacist behavior. Michael Anti, a Chinese journalist who posted a snapshot of the manifesto, said he thought the shooters statement was based on a shallow understanding of China as a non-diversified country whose strength comes from homogeneity. China is No. 2 now and strong. He thinks China is achieving this because of one nation, one country, Anti said. China is a diverse country of 56 ethnic groups, though 91% of the population is ethnically Han. READ MORE: The New Zealand mosque shooting is just the latest in a trend of violence against houses of worship The state has been criticized for forcing minority assimilation to Han culture, especially in Tibet and Xinjiang. Sinocization of religion is also one of Xi Jinpings key initiatives. But its unclear whether the manifesto writer knew any of this. Chinese President Xi Jinping officially denounced the attack and sent condolences to the victims. Meanwhile, the Global Times, a conservative state-run Chinese tabloid, published an editorial criticizing white supremacy as part of the Western values that the United States promotes. White supremacy is not an isolated ideology. It prevails in Western centrism and the popularization of the so-called Western universal values, the editorial said. The West should be inclusive toward globalization instead of always prioritizing its own benefits and taking Western superiority for granted. READ MORE: Southern California Muslims react to New Zealand massacre: It could have been us An Australian senator had a raw egg cracked over his head and faces censure from his fellow lawmakers after sparking outrage by blaming Muslim immigration for the New Zealand mosque shootings. Sen. Fraser Anning came under blistering criticism over tweets Friday, including one that said, Does anyone still dispute the link between Muslim immigration and violence? The real cause of the bloodshed on New Zealand streets today is the immigration program which allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place, he said in a statement. Television cameras caught a 17-year-old boy breaking an egg on Annings head and briefly scuffling with the independent senator while he was holding a news conference Saturday in Melbourne. Advertisement Police said the boy was arrested but was released without charge pending a further investigation. No motive was offered for the egging. The government and opposition party agreed to pass a censure motion against Anning over his stance on the Christchurch shootings when Parliament resumes in April. While such a reprimand is a symbolic gesture, the major parties expect to demonstrate how isolated Annings views are among Australias 226 federal lawmakers. The major parties support ensures the censure motion will be passed by both chambers. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said he denounced Annings comments. In his conflation of this horrendous terrorist attack with issues of immigration, in his attack on Islamic faith specifically these comments are appalling and theyre ugly and they have no place in Australia, in the Australian Parliament, Morrison said. He should be, frankly, ashamed of himself. Bilal Rauf, spokesman for the Australian National Imams Council, the nations top Muslim group, likened the senators views to the rambling manifesto published online by suspect Brenton Tarrant before the slayings. When one looks at his statement, it may as well have been an extract from the manifesto of the person that perpetrated these heinous crimes, this act of terrorism in Christchurch, Rauf said. Rauf said Anning was unfit for the Senate. Opposition lawmaker Penny Wong accused Anning of attempting to use the tragedy to grab attention ahead of elections in May. Anning received only 19 votes in the last election in 2016. But because of a quirk in the Australian electoral system, he was elevated to the Senate by the anti-immigration, anti-Muslim One Nation party after a court ruled that its senator, Malcolm Roberts, had not been eligible to run in election due to his dual citizenship. Anning later defected from One Nation to another anti-immigration party, then became an independent. Analysts say Anning is unlikely to be reelected as an independent candidate in May. Anning was widely condemned for his first speech to the Senate in August advocating reviving a white-only immigration policy and using the term final solution in calling for a vote on which migrants to admit into the country. Critics accused him of making a veiled reference to the Nazi extermination of Jews. The government also announced Saturday that it had banned right-wing commentator Milo Yiannopoulos from touring the country over his social media response to the Christchurch shootings. Immigration Minister David Coleman said Yiannopoulos social media comments are appalling and foment hatred and division. Coleman didnt specify which comments he was referring to. Yiannopoulos said on Facebook that attacks such as Christchurch happen because the establishment panders to and mollycoddles extremist leftism and barbaric, alien religious cultures. Lawmakers within Australias conservative government had been quarreling in recent weeks over whether the firebrand commentator should be allowed to tour Australia this year. With U.S. trade talks at a delicate moment, China on Friday hurriedly passed a foreign investment law meant to placate the Americans amid some skepticism from Western business groups. Chinas largely ceremonial parliament, the National Peoples Congress, overwhelmingly passed the law that sought to stiffen prohibitions against Chinese officials and companies pilfering trade secrets. It would also open up more sectors for foreign investment and strive in broad strokes to protect the legitimate rights and interests of foreign firms. As votes were cast at the Great Hall of the People on Friday morning with just a handful in token opposition state media sprung into action touting the bills benefits for foreign companies and highlighting how efficiently it moved through the Chinese bureaucracy in recent months. The measure was tweaked as recently as this week in what was widely seen as an effort by Beijing to address a core complaint raised by Washingtons trade negotiators and foreign business groups. Advertisement But the response on Friday was lukewarm. The last-minute efforts are appreciated, but the changes shouldnt have been controversial in the first place and only address a small slice of the overall set of concerns our members have about the uneven playing field foreign companies encounter in China, said Tim Stratford, chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China. Pompeo dismisses North Korean threat to end nuclear talks The business groups response to the new legislation in many ways mirrors their concerns about the trade talks currently unfolding: Several U.S. lobbying interests have publicly urged President Trump against rushing into a vague deal with China that fails to resolve fundamental complaints about Chinas unfair competitive practices or fails to offer enforceable guarantees that China will live up to its word. Hours after the investment law passed, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang told reporters that Chinas Cabinet would soon reveal more details and regulations about how it intended to implement the law, which goes into effect next January. He urged patience. I have said many times that Chinas opening-up measures are often not launched as one package; they come out every year and even every quarter, Li said. Then you turn around and realize theyve cumulatively had an unimaginable effect. The Chinese law came at the end of a week when the Trump administration cooled the temperature on talk of an imminent trade deal. U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer told the Senate on Tuesday there are major, major issues that have to be resolved and said he was not certain a deal could be thrashed out but would know soon. An expected meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida to finalize the agreement has been delayed to April if it happens at all, Bloomberg reported Thursday. Less than a day later, Chinas state-run New China News Agency put out an optimistic report that concrete progress had been made in the negotiations. Beyond extending an olive branch to Washington, the investment law will come into force at a time when China is looking to shore up its attractiveness to foreign investors broadly. Trump issues first veto, defying Congress rebuke of his border emergency order The European Union Chamber of Commerce in China said Friday it objected on principle to the Chinese system still maintaining distinctions between foreign and Chinese companies. More than anything else, foreign companies want equal treatment and opportunities, said the groups president, Mats Harborn. While not all of our concerns were addressed in this law, it is time to move forward. Foreign investment into China grew at a slower pace in 2018, and one survey by the American Chamber of Commerce in South China said two-thirds of U.S. firms in southern China, a manufacturing hub, were considering delaying or canceling investments and looking at India and Vietnam instead. Yao Xinchao, a professor at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, said the trade dispute was the fuse that sparked the government effort to beef up intellectual-property protection laws and placate foreign investors. Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam, they are all developing and attracting foreign investments. Its not about confidence in China waning, Yao said, its that every other country is catching up. Yuan Wang from the Washington Post contributed to this report. A suicide bombing killed 27 of Irans elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard members and injured 13 others shortly after sunset Wednesday in the countrys southeast, according to state media. The Sunni Muslim extremist group Jaish al-Adl claimed responsibility for the attack on a bus carrying guard members who had just finished patrolling in Sistan and Baluchistan province near the border with Pakistan. Authorities believe the attacker drove up next to the bus before detonating a car bomb, according to the semiofficial Fars news agency. Jaish al-Adl came to prominence in recent years claiming to fight oppression against the Sunni minority in the southeastern province. Advertisement An overwhelming majority of Irans population is Shiite Muslim, but about 9% of the nation is Sunni. Many in the minority sect live in the impoverished outlying areas of Iran and say they face discrimination, poverty and a lack of opportunity. The group has become pretty famous in Iran, Ariane Tabatabai, an associate political scientist at Rand Corp., said of Jaish al-Adl. What makes Wednesdays attack unique is that its happening in the middle of the anniversary of the revolution, which is a time when Iran wants to showcase its military power. The attack came two days after thousands of Iranians commemorated the 40th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution, which ousted a secular pro-Western monarchy and replaced it with the Islamic Republic. It also came on the first day of a U.S.-led Mideast conference in Warsaw. Outside the conference, hundreds of demonstrators called for a change of government in Iran. The protest was organized by the National Council of Resistance of Iran. The council is linked to the Mujahedin Khalq, an Iranian exile group that has long sought to topple the government in Tehran and enjoys support among some members of the Trump administration. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif sought to link the attack with the conference in a tweet: Is it no coincidence that Iran is hit by terror on the very day that #WarsawCircus begins? Especially when cohorts of same terrorists cheer it from Warsaw streets & support it with twitter bots? Bahram Qasemi, a spokesman for the Foreign Ministry, condemned the suicide bombing and said officials and Irans military would take revenge on the murderous terrorists. The wreckage of a bus is shown after a suicide bombing in Sistan and Baluchistan province in southeastern Iran in an image from the semiofficial Fars news agency. The bus was carrying members of Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard. (Fars news agency) Jaish al-Adl, whose name means Army of Justice, is an offshoot of the still-active militant Jundallah separatist group from Sistan and Baluchistan, Tabatabai said. Jaish al-Adl is just one of several extremist groups in the province, Tabatabai said, with members of Irans armed forces patrolling there facing numerous terrorist attacks in recent years. The area is one of the most underdeveloped parts of Iran, she said. There are few jobs and not many opportunities, so it creates an environment where terrorist groups can recruit people easily, Tabatabai said. Jaish al-Adl has targeted members of Irans armed forces for kidnappings or deadly attacks. The group has also demanded the government release its jailed members. In 2013, authorities hanged 16 people in retaliation for the killing of 14 border guards who were ambushed near the border with Pakistan. Its unclear whether the prisoners were part of Jaish al-Adl. Fars said they were linked to groups hostile to Irans political system. In 2014, Jaish al-Adl kidnapped five members of the Revolutionary Guard in the same border region, according to state media. Four of the guards were released in Pakistan two months later, but the fifth had been executed, state media said. The group kidnapped 12 Iranian border guards in October, according to state media. Five were later freed, Fars reported. The Revolutionary Guard was formed by Shiite cleric Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini shortly after the 1979 revolution and is distinct from the regular military. In its early days, the guard was made up of destitute young men from urban areas who were used to clamp down on critics of the revolution. The Revolutionary Guard, numbering about 125,000 members, now plays a major political and economic role in Iran and is a potent symbol of the Shiite majority. Special correspondent Mostaghim reported from Tehran and Times staff writer Etehad from Los Angeles. Academics with foreign ties living in Iran are on alert following the arrest of a demographer whose research led her to question the countrys decision to urge people to have more children. Meimanat Hosseini-Chavoshi, who is a citizen of both Iran and Australia, was arrested in November while she tried to leave and is accused of being a spy, according to Kayhan, Irans conservative newspaper. Her colleague, Mohammad Jalal Abbasi-Shavazi, a demographics professor at Tehran University and director of Irans National Institute of Population Research, was detained shortly after by Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard and interrogated about his work on population growth and fertility, the semiofficial Fars News Agency reported. Authorities allege that the two demographers falsified statistics about the fertility rate in Iran to mask the countrys population crisis, Iranian state media have reported. The government contends there is a coming population shortage and has been pushing to increase the fertility rate. Advertisement The arrest of a university researcher for simply engaging in academic inquiry is unusual even in a country with a long history of jailing activists and has renewed fear among other scholars and researchers who live and work in Iran. Its a signal to people in the country to be careful, or you will end up in jail, said Siavash Ramesh, a political analyst in Iran. If a demographer who says the population is good enough, is jailed, then who is safe? Shortly after the 1979 revolution, during the early years of the Islamic Republic, the government embarked on a systematic crackdown on people it viewed as enemies of the conservative theocracy. Sporadic crackdowns have followed over the decades. The recent arrests of activists, lawyers, environmentalists, womens rights activists and now academics, a handful of whom hold dual citizenship, signal an escalating attack on civil society. The arrest of the demographers reflects a shift in tactics by hard-liners against those they believe are foreign agents working against the policies of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Irans supreme leader. Iranian security forces are beginning to close the space for both activism and analytical inquiry, said Suzanne Maloney, an Iran specialist at the Brookings Institution. The latest wave of repression started on Dec. 28, 2017, when hundreds of Iranians were arrested and at least 20 killed after protesters took to the streets demanding the resignations of Irans top leaders. A month later, in February 2018, authorities began arresting environmentalists. Kavous Seyed Emami, a sociology professor with Canadian citizenship, was one of eight environmental activists arrested and accused of passing intelligence to foreigners. The government said he hanged himself in Tehrans Evin Prison, though his family has challenged that account. A handful of academics, including Iranians who hold dual citizenship, have also been arrested in recent years and remain in prison. Xiyue Wang, a Princeton University academic and American citizen who was conducting research on the Qajar dynasty in Iran, was sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2017 on spying charges. Iranian-Swedish scientist Ahmadreza Djalali was sentenced to death a few months later on espionage charges. Hosseini-Chavoshi worked with the Australian National University as a researcher and coauthored Population Developments in Iran, a book detailing population trends in Iran and their effect on the countrys economy. She and other experts believe that Iran cant sustain a large population increase. The allegations against her suggest how Iranians preference for smaller families has become a politically sensitive topic and stoked the fears of some religious conservatives about the future of the Islamic Republic. After the 1979 Islamic Revolution, officials encouraged people to have large families. The population doubled in almost a decade to 55 million, up from 27 million in 1968, according to data from the United Nations. But after the Iran-Iraq war, officials reversed their policy. Contraceptives became widely available and religious leaders encouraged women to wait before getting pregnant. By the 1990s Iran had one of the most effective population control policies in the world. Today, that policy has placed Iran in a precarious situation: As Irans working-class population continues to grow older, the countrys outdated and poorly designed public pension programs could become strained. Consequently, Khamenei has been calling for people to have more babies and has said he wants the population to grow from 80 million to 150 million people. Hard-liners rallying behind the supreme leader are accusing critics such as Hosseini-Chavoshi of being part of a Western conspiracy to keep Iran weak. Nasrullah Pezhmanfar, a cleric and member of Irans cultural committee of parliament, said reducing the number of people in Iran is an act of war initiated by America and its allies. The enemy has been implementing a consistent plan to reduce the birthrate, he said on state-run TV. Still, Iranians preference for having fewer children is likely to stay around. Mehdi Akbari, 32, has been married for three years. He repairs cellphones at a shop in Valiasr Square. Although hed like to have children, Akbari said he cant to afford to raise them in Irans fickle economy. He makes about $250 a month and said he is barely able to make ends meet. My mom keeps saying that I must start a family, but I am not sure I can even afford a decent education or quality of life for my child, he said. No way, we cannot afford to start a family. Special correspondent Mostaghim reported from Tehran and Times staff writer Melissa Etehad from Los Angeles melissa.etehad@latimes.com Follow me on Twitter @melissaetehad - The Nigerian Navy has launched Obangame Express 2019 - The operation is meant to tackle sea piracy and oil bunkering - Eight Nigerian Navy ships will participate in the operation in Lagos The Nigerian Navy in Lagos on Friday, March 15, launched a sea operation tagged `Obangame Express 2019 to promote regional cooperation among navies of the Gulf of Guinea (GOG) countries. The Gulf of Guinea includes several West African countries that border the Atlantic Ocean namely: Benin, Ghana, Togo, Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, and Equatorial Guinea. The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Ibok-Ette Ibas, who launched the operation, on the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Centenary at Naval Dockyard Limited in Lagos, said that the exercise was also intended to encourage cooperation between the navies of GOG countries and those of other countries. READ ALSO: Buhari allegedly shuns Aso Villa meeting with Bauchi, Adamawa governors According to Ibas, who was represented by the Chief of Training and Operations, Rear Adm. Francis Isaac, the collaboration between the navies was to promote inter-agency and transnational cooperation on maritime safety and security, especially in the Gulf of Guinea. The operation, which is expected to end on March 22, will be conducted simultaneously in various countries. "Our ships will be participating alongside some international forces such as U.S, Portugal, and Morocco. We will be looking at fictitious exercises such as anti-piracy situation, search and rescue, anti-bunkering, and other forms of exercises. The exercise is designed to promote regional cooperation among navies in the Gulf of Guinea," he said. READ ALSO: Ill perform far better than Saraki in 9th Senate - Oloriegbe The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 31 countries will be participating in the multi-national operation. Eight Nigerian Navy ships including two Offshore Patrol Vessels Centenary and Unity, two Helos, and one ship each from US, Portugal and Morocco will be participating in the operation in the Lagos area. Exercise Obangame Express, which was first held in 2010, was an annual multi-phased exercise sponsored by the United States Naval Force Africa (US NAVAF). It is intended to improve maritime domain awareness, information sharing and enhance the collective capabilities of GOG and West African nations to counter illegality in the maritime domain. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app The Nigerian Navy says no fewer than 500 naval officers have been deployed to a multinational sea exercise, Obangame Express, sponsored by the US Africa Command. The flag officer commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Obed Ngalabak, said this on Wednesday, March 13 in a telephonic news conference organised by the US Embassy, Abuja, NAN reports. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Navy says no fewer than 500 naval officers have been deployed to a multinational sea exercise, Obangame Express, sponsored by the US Africa Command. The flag officer commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Obed Ngalabak, said this on Wednesday, March 13 in a telephonic news conference organised by the US Embassy, Abuja, NAN reports. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng: Same great journalism, upgraded for better service! 2019 Armed Forces Remembrance Day - on Legit TV: Source: Legit Lehigh Career & Technical Institute is building a new 12,000-square-foot Welding Technology Center, twice the size of its current lab space for the program. It'll have 40 welding booths and 10 work stations, giving 50 students the chance to train simultaneously, officials with the public vocational-technical school in North Whitehall Township said. Welders build the world we live in. From cars to high rise office buildings, airplanes to rockets, pipelines to highways -- none of it would be possible without welding, Lehigh Career & Technical Institute Executive Director Thomas J. Rushton said in a statement following a groundbreaking Thursday. Driven by retirements, infrastructure needs and advancing technologies, demand for this trade is high and will remain that way in the future. LCTI hopes to open the $4.25 million facility for fall 2020. Welding Technology students Jordan Everett, from left, and Bradley Gardner participate in a ceremonial groundbreaking March 14, 2019, for Lehigh Career & Technical Institute's new $4.25 million Welding Technology Center with their teachers Brad Brandmeir and Thomas Uff. A representative of Gov. Tom Wolf attended the groundbreaking, highlighting how the center fits into the Statewide Workforce, Education and Accountability Program. SWEAP aims to expand access to early childhood education, increase school investment and build partnerships with the private sector. A $50,000 state grant is going toward equipment for the new center. Pennsylvanias economic future depends on a well-educated and highly-trained workforce, Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry Deputy Secretary for Workforce Development Eileen Cipriani said in a statement. The expansion of LCTIs welding program will give students hands-on training for a career or to continue their education. The program also gives local employers a pipeline of talented workers. Pennsylvania Deputy Secretary of Workforce Development Eileen Cipriani delivers remarks at a groundbreaking March 14, 2019, for Lehigh Career & Technical Institute's new $4.25 million Welding Technology Center in North Whitehall Township. LCTI is Pennsylvanias largest career and technical school, offering more than 45 skills-based programs of study, as well as academic instruction for some 2,700 ninth- through-12th-grade students from Lehigh Countys nine public school districts. Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @KurtBresswein andFacebook. Findlehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. By MICHAEL RUBINKAM Associated Press A Pennsylvania man should be put to death for killing and dismembering his girlfriends 14-year-old daughter as part of a rape-murder fantasy he and the teens mother shared, a prosecutor said Friday. Jacob Sullivan, 46, pleaded guilty to all charges last month in a case that raised questions about the child welfare systems failure to protect Grace Packer, who spent years in an abusive home before she was raped, drugged, bound and gagged for a dozen hours and then, finally, strangled in the attic of a suburban Philadelphia home in 2016. Prosecutors said Graces adoptive mother, Sara Packer, plotted the crime with Sullivan and watched him violate and kill her daughter. Sara Packer, a former foster parent and county adoptions supervisor, has agreed to plead guilty in exchange for a life sentence and is scheduled to testify at the penalty phase of Sullivans trial, which opened Friday in Doylestown. In his opening statement, Bucks County District Attorney Matthew Weintraub said he would be asking the jury to impose the death penalty for Sullivan's "awful, unspeakable, heinous crimes." Sullivan and Packer "decided together that Grace was not worth the air she breathed," Weintraub said, and "he made Grace Packer's last 24 hours of life a hell on earth." Sullivan's lawyer, Jack Fagan, asked jurors to spare Sullivan's life, saying he should get the same sentence as Sara Packer. Fagan said Packer was controlling and manipulative, hated Grace long before she met Sullivan online in 2013, and masterminded the plot to rape and kill her. "Sara Packer was the driving factor in the intent, the planning and the execution of what happened to her daughter," he said. The defense plans to call Packer as a witness. Fridays hearing ended without Sullivan being sentenced, and it was not immediately clear how long it would be before the jury is asked to render its decision. The jury that will decide his sentence must be unanimous in order to impose the death penalty; otherwise Sullivan will get life without parole. Even if he's sentenced to death, it's unclear whether the punishment would ever be carried out. Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf declared a moratorium on capital punishment shortly after taking office in 2015. Pennsylvania last carried out an execution in 1999. Packer and her husband at the time, David Packer, adopted Grace and her brother in 2007. The couple cared for dozens of foster children before David Packer was arrested in 2010 and sent to prison for sexually assaulting Grace and a 15-year-old foster daughter at their home in Allentown, about an hour north of Philadelphia. Sara Packer lost her job as a Northampton County adoptions supervisor in 2010 and was barred from taking in any more foster children. The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services launched an investigation after Grace Packer's murder but its findings have not been made public. On Friday, Weintraub said Grace's short life was a series of terrible misfortunes, culminating in her agonizing death. "What is the worst thing you can think of you can do to a child?" he asked the jury. "Because in this courtroom, we are going to check all of those boxes." Sullivan has admitted he punched and raped Grace, bound her hands and feet with zip ties and stuffed a ball gag in her mouth. Prosecutors said Sullivan and Packer also gave her what they intended to be a lethal dose of over-the-counter medication and left her to die in a sweltering attic. Returning the next day and finding Grace was still alive, Sullivan strangled her. The couple stored her body in cat litter for months, then hacked it up and dumped it in a remote area where hunters found it in October 2016, according to prosecutors. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. By MARC LEVY Associated Press They are talking about nuclear power across rural Pennsylvania. This spring, the question of whether to rescue Pennsylvania's nuclear power plants could dominate debate in the state Capitol, and that's of keen financial interest to hundreds of thousands of rural electric cooperative members who rely heavily on nuclear power. Cooperatives in the nation's No. 2 nuclear power state have perhaps the biggest stake in what critics call a bailout, and they are cranking up their efforts to get their message to employees, cooperative members and, ultimately, lawmakers. "Every opportunity that we have, I encourage our member owners to bring this up. Every opportunity I have, if at a meeting, I bring this up," said Frank Betley, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association, which is owned by 14 cooperatives. "I hope that our people are talking to (lawmakers) at every turn to let them know that, 'hey, this is important to us.'" For two years, Chicago-based Exelon Corp. and other nuclear power plant owners have worked to build support for a rescue in Pennsylvania, warning that the fleet is being driven into unprofitability, primarily by a flood of cheap natural gas plants entering competitive electricity markets. Nuclear power, they say, should get the same favorable treatment in Pennsylvania as wind farms, solar installations and other "carbon-free" energy sources in the age of global warming. To accomplish that, the cooperatives and other nuclear plant owners are supporting legislation projected to cost Pennsylvania's ratepayers around $500 million a year. That's about 3 percent of the more than $14 billion that Pennsylvania's electric customers paid for electricity in 2018, including distribution charges and taxes, according to federal data. The 14 rural electric cooperatives, 13 in Pennsylvania and one in New Jersey, own 10 percent of the Susquehanna nuclear power plant in northeastern Pennsylvania. Susquehanna, in turn, supplies roughly 60 percent of the electricity used by the more than 230,000 households, businesses and industrial consumers who are members of the cooperatives and that, they say, has helped them keep their rates well below what for-profit utilities charge ratepayers. The stakes for the cooperatives are this: If Susquehanna shuts down prematurely, members of the cooperatives can expect a big increase in their electric bills. However, if lawmakers pass the nuclear-friendly legislation, the cooperatives like other nuclear power plant owners would bring in more cash. Meanwhile, the bill would shield members of the cooperatives from the rate increases that most of Pennsylvania's other electric customers will pay. Betley wouldn't provide an estimate for the cost increase should Susquehanna shut down. But Rep. Thomas Mehaffie, R-Dauphin, who introduced the House bill, said it could amount to a 25- to 30-percent hike in members' bills, or higher if natural gas prices rise. "They are really concerned," Mehaffie said. Lawmakers' immediate deadline is June 1. That's when Exelon, the owner of Three Mile Island, has said it will begin the four-month process of shutting down the plant that was the site of a terrifying partial meltdown in 1979, unless Pennsylvania comes to its financial rescue. The Three Mile Island nuclear power plant is seen May 22, 2017, in Middletown, Pa. (AP File Photo/Matt Rourke)AP Three Mile Island aside, the bill's opponents question whether Susquehanna and Pennsylvania's three other nuclear power plants require a subsidy to stay afloat. By all accounts, Susquehanna is profitable right now, although nuclear power plant owners warn that the same market dynamics that make Three Mile Island unprofitable will eventually sink Pennsylvania's entire nuclear fleet. They warn of a future without nuclear power plants. Carbon emissions will rise, natural gas will become the dominant energy source and Pennsylvania will have no hedge against a price spike, they say. Passing a complicated, heavily lobbied and politically thorny bill won't be easy. Securing the backing of Gov. Tom Wolf and his fellow Democrats in the Legislature will likely require adding clean-energy concessions and limiting nuclear power subsidies. At the same time, swinging the votes of rural lawmakers behind it could be the difference between its success and failure in the Republican-controlled Legislature. Some rural lawmakers may have divided loyalties if Pennsylvania's considerable natural gas industry maintains its opposition to any nuclear-friendly legislation. And the cooperatives aren't prominent campaign donors. But nearly 70 House and Senate members have cooperative service territory in their districts, the cooperatives say. Some of the cooperatives' employees and board members are well known to lawmakers, and the cooperatives are involved in civic causes and donate to local organizations. "That means a whole lot," Rep. Dan Moul, R-Adams, said of his local cooperative, Adams Electric. "I will go out on a limb to protect that company. They are important to the community." Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. I am a homeowner who lives within a mile of the Waste Management Grand Central Sanitary Landfill. There are times when the odor emanating from the dump is horrendous. How bad would the odor be if the landfill were not required to follow the many rules and regulations by which it is held accountable? Or if Waste Management did not invest in odor control research, green technology and infrastructure? The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection suggests informing Waste Management on as many details of an odor as possible. To be as effective as possible, DEP suggests a call to them should be combined with a call to the Waste Management reporting number. How is Waste Management supposed to control odor if they are not aware of any details of the reported odor? Reporting the issue to Waste Management may help locate and mitigate a problem. Waste Management has been, and continues to be, a good neighbor. They have poured a lot of money into the community. Yes, it is in their best business interest as well as a requirement. But the reality is that benefits to the borough of Pen Argyl and the greater community exist. Those are indisputable facts, not opinion. The reality of the negative does not eliminate the positive. In my opinion, the landfill odor is worth the benefits of free trash pick-up and the investment in Pen Argyl and the greater community. The landfill has been around and will be around for quite a while. However, the perks that come with it will not last forever. Jeffery Fox Pen Argyl A call to reduce the speed limit on the N7 is likely to fall on deaf ears. Naas councillor Anne Breen wants the speed limit reduced because of noise levels coming off the road affecting residents living in Kill. She told a Naas Municipal District meeting that road noise should be reduced wherever possible on health grounds according to an EU directive. She wants Kildare County Council to raise the matter with Transport Infrastructure Ireland, which is responsible for the national road and public transport network.They (people living close to the motorway route) feel its affecting their health, said Cllr Breen. Cllr Breen also called for a one kilometre section of the road to be resurfaced with noise reducing material. However Cllr Fintan Brett said he understood that noise reducing material is already in place there. He also said that there is concern that if traffic is slowed to 80 kph, some motorists will opt to divert through Kill rather than continue on the motorway. Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider subscribing to our ePaper and/or free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. HE started out doing Irish dancing but now John Nolan, who has West Limerick roots, is dancing with the stars. And this year, he has high hopes that he and his Dancing With The Stars (DWTS) partner broadcasting star Mairead Ronan will be picking up the ultimate prize, the Glittery Ball. The duo secured their place in the semi-final with a strong and passionate performance of the Pasa Doble on Sunday night. And this week, John, has called on everybody in Limerick to tune in for next Sundays programme and to text 53125 to help secure their place in the final. John, a professional dancer and dance teacher, has taken part in all three seasons of DWTS, partnering RTEs Theresa Mannion the first year before making it to the final last year with actor Deirdre OKane. This year has been my favourite season so far of the three, John told the Limerick Leader. And he is absolutely convinced that Mairead, who took her first dance steps with him last December, has what it takes to win. She has never danced a day in her life. This is totally outside her comfort zone but she is unbelievable, he said. She is such a hard worker, such a dedicated person in every aspect of her life. Mairead, he continued, is training for up to 10 hours with him every day, then going home to her husband and three children and building a new house at the same time. I dont know how she does it. But Mairead has also praised her dancing partner, saying he has made the experience a family friendly one for her, starting early so she can be home for the children in the afternoon. We had a good start but then the last three weeks were a little shaky. But Sunday night has got us back up there. We are in the top half of the leader board which is where you want to be going into a semi-final.. What is certain is that Johns Limerick relations, his aunt Mary Ann Trant and uncle Denis Trant, will be watching the programme as of course will his mother Joan Trant who moved to Kilkenny as a young woman where she married John Nolan Senior. John has warm memories of summer holidays in Ballyhahill, of playing pool in Curtins and drinking bottles of Nashs lemonade. Even more recently, on a visit to his relations, they all turned up for a social in the local hall where John took to the dancefloor. When I was three I started Irish dancing and then set-dancing, John said, explaining the background to his career choice. But then, when he was just six years old, a neighbour brought him to a ballroom dancing class. I took to the floor and kept going ever since, he laughed. The set-dancing and the hurling went out the window. It is hard on the body, he acknowledged. But it doesnt feel like going to work. I feel blessed. For a number of years, John took part in competitions himself but now his main work is as a teacher with the Exquisite Dance school in Dublin and also as an adjudicator and choreographer. DWTS has added to his CV and given him even more exposure. CHEERFUL bunting and bunches of balloons hung from the rafters; crocks and jars of delicate posies decorated the tables and daffodils stood like sentinels hemming the stage. Everywhere, was the happy sound of chatter and laughter and whoops of delight at the magic that had been wrought in the Village Hall. Adare had come out to party and, in a huge outpouring of affection and community spirit, to pay tribute to retiring postmistress Liz Toomey. Liz, you are looking fabulous, like a Hollywood star, declared Liam OKelly, MC for the occasion. Many of those who came had never known anyone else to stand behind their communitys post office counter. But there were many who could recall the day, in 1975 , when Liz took up her first job in the post office under the guiding hand of then postmistress Winnie Treacy. And even more could remember when she moved up the street to take over the business herself in 1986. You have been an integral part of our village through generations, Liam said, citing her many roles as caring and thoughtful neighbour and friend, as counsellor and go-to person. And this was underlined in a very special letter from senior citizen Dolly ONeill who thanked Liz for her kindness and help when she was widowed and when she reached retirement. The long, family link with Adare post-office was traced by Tony Treacy, whose mother, grandmother and great-grandmother had run the post office until Liz took over in 1986. He himself was born in the post-office and Liz had become a friend and part of our family he said. But he reminded the audience that Liz herself was steeped in post-office tradition. Her grandfather was a postman in Kilfinny and her grandaunt Annie had worked for his grandmother. Both he and Billy Chawke entertained the audience with tales of the old days in the post office, when there was only one phone in the village; when telegram boys were dispatched to bring good news and bad, when turkeys were sent through the post for Christmas and a postman who had enjoyed one Christmas drink too many was found in a ditch still on his bike and singing Take me home again, Kathleen. But they spoke warmly too of Lizs great commitment and qualities. Tony recalled an occasion when one postman was sick and no replacement was available. Liz and his grandmother travelled into Limerick to collect the post, sort it and deliver it. That was the level of commitment and dedication they had, he declared. Liz was always there to help people along, retired publican Bill Chawke said, and the post office was a huge focal point for everybody. When post offices close, the community is at a total loss, he said. We are very lucky here in Adare the post office has found a good home, Bill said. The packed hall loved every minute of it and the cheers were long and loud when Liz was presented with her retirement presents: a travel-voucher for 6,000, a painting of the post-office by Des OSullivan, a painting of Adare Manor by Lady Dunraven and the biggest bouquet anyone in the hall had ever seen. The response from the people of Adare was mind-blowing, Liam OKelly said without fear of contradiction. It just shows what a community can do. Liz herself was quiet-spoken. I feel very honoured and privileged to have served as postmistress in Adare for the last 33 years, she said before acknowledging that Mrs Treacy had indeed given her a very good grounding and that the day also marked a break in tradition for the Treacy family. She paid special thanks to Willie Jackson who was a great support when she took over and also thanked her Three Musketeers: Mike Alfred, Mick ONeill and Ollie Harnett. Afterwards, Liz admitted: I knew about the party but I didnt realise the extent of it. She was stunned, she said, when she entered the hall. It is a fabulous thing for the community to do. I am so honoured that this was done for me. Since her last day behind the counter on February 15, she added, it felt like I was off on holidays. But she does plan to be busy, with overseas trips to visit family and providing holiday cover for other post offices. I will certainly miss meeting the people, she added. But I think it is the right time for me to go. One dreadful memory however will remain from her long career: the morning of June 7, 1996 when Det Garda Jerry McCabe was murdered and Det Garda Ben OSullivan was wounded by the IRA. At that time, Liz lived over the post office and normally would have been outside waiting for the escorted delivery. That day, however, she wasnt. I heard the first shot and started to dial 999, she recalled. That was probably a turning point for me in wanting to live somewhere else. It didnt have good memories for me. But Adare has nothing but good memories of Liz. The new postmaster in Adare is David Curtin and it is located in Londis on Station Road where Cathy Lowry will be the new smiling face of An Post in Adare. A film shot in Limerick and west Clare has been making waves in horror movie circles in the UK, after exciting a lot of interest at a film festival in Glasgow. The Perished, a feature length horror film with strong Limerick links, received rave reviews following its trailer premiere at Frightfest, the largest horror festival in the UK. Directed by Limerick native Paddy Murphy, the horror film was shot in Limerick and West Clare. Now it is set to reach wider audiences after Paddy got the trailer screened at Frightfest. Yet he insisted this is only the beginning: It went down really well, we received some really nice comments and also some great tips from some very knowledgeable people, he told The Leader. Hes not resting on his laurels however, saying Theres already people asking if its being shown in London (Frightfest festival) in August, I dont know that, but thats what were aiming for. Canada is next up, where the trailer is being screened next month. Just across the border from there a lot of the heavy lifting of post-production is being done. The full version has been sent to a major film company in the US before final editing. Paddy describes the film as different to a typical horror, its not very violent, not too bloody, but very mature and emotionally heavy. It portrays some important messages in a subtle way. The emotional side is portrayed excellently by lead actress, Limericks own Courtney McKeon. They say you should never write with an actress in mind, but I knew from the moment I pitched the idea, that Courtney would be perfect for the role, said Paddy. The two have a long running professional relationship, dating back four years to when Paddy first spotted Courtneys acting and acknowledged she had something different. A number of locations throughout Limerick were used for filming, which ran from October all the way through December. Amber nightclub was used to film the opening scene, Paddy had nothing but praise for the staff there. Everyone we approached was so nice. Amber was the ideal location for such an important scene, it was phonemonal. He was also sure to praise the old fire station, which was also used for two separate scenes Shooting in the local area and using local actors is crucial to Paddy, who believes theres much to be gained from the setting of Limerick and the limitless talent out there. A PENSIONER who struck a car as she pulled into a petrol station near her home was fined 100 after she was convicted of driving without reasonable consideration for other road users. Bridget OKeeffe, 71, of Ballygrennan, Ballingarry was initially prosecuted for careless driving following the collision which happened at Chawkes Cross garage near Granagh on April 7, 2018. Inspector Andrew Lacey, who accepted a guilty plea to the lesser charge, told Newcastle West Court that Ms OKeefes Toyota Yaris car hit the passenger side of another vehicle as it was about to leave the filling station. There were no serious injuries and no evidence was given in court of any serious damage being caused as a result of the accident. Solicitor Enda OConnor said CCTV footage of the incident showed his client had to manoeuvre around a parked van as she turned into the forecourt from the main road. This, he said, meant she had made made the arc of her turn longer. After submitting a number of still images from the CCTV footage, he said Ms OKeeffe has no previous convictions and is in receipt of the old age pension. Noting the circumstances of the incident and Ms OKeeffes previous good record, Judge Mary Larkin said she was willing to reduce the charge as proposed. After recording a conviction under Section 51 (a) of the Road Traffic Act, she imposed a 100 fine. As a consequence of the conviction, she will receive penalty points on her drivers licence. THE Community Employment scheme at St Itas Voluntary Housing and Day Care Centre in Abbeyfeale will finish at the end of this month, the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection, Regina Doherty has confirmed. The project is no longer viable and the contract will not be renewed, she told Fianna Fail TD Niall Collins in answer to a parliamentary question in the Dail. But Deputy Niall Collins is determined to raise the matter again in order to find a resolution. Last week, the Limerick Leader reported that services at St Itas were at risk unless the decision to end the CE scheme was reversed. Dr Mick ODonnell, chairman of St Itas, explained that they would not be able to afford to continue with all their services without a CE scheme. These services include providing daily dinners for residents in the sheltered housing as well as providing meals and social interaction to scores of senior citizens on a day-care basis. Dr ODonnell said that falling unemployment had made it more difficult to fill places on the scheme and the nature of the work involved also was a factor. The scheme originally had 15 workers but this had fallen to seven with two of these due to leave this month, he told the Limerick Leader. He also explained that they had agreed to merge with another local scheme but the other scheme was no longer willing to agree to this. And he warned of the negative effects the loss of the scheme would have on the 80 or more senior citizens who use the Day Care services, many of whom live isolated lives in remote areas. In her written reply to Deputy Collins, Minister Doherty said: I am very cognisant of the valuable community and voluntary services delivered in these local communities and the need to protect these services and the participant placements into the future. However, she said: As the current contract is not being honoured and the project is no longer viable, my Department are not is a position to renew the contract at the end of March. She hoped however that St Itas would continue to engage with her Department to reach a positive outcome. We cant allow a situation where the local community is at a loss or disadvantage, Deputy Collins said, having received her reply. I would ask the Minster and her department to engage further with the committee of St Itas to see if a satsifactory solution can be arrived at in the interests of the local community. Cllr Seamus Browne slammed the Ministers decision as disgraceful and repeated his call for a reversal of the decision. He challenged Minister Doherty to come and visit Abbeyfeal and see for herself the essential services provided to elderly and vulnerable people. HUNDREDS of Limerick students joined global climate change protests this Friday afternoon. The action saw around 300 pupils from schools across Limerick city and county, as well as students from the University of Limerick, Limerick Institute of Technology and Mary Immaculate College gather to take part in the protest. They gathered at Arthur's Quay Park before marching down to City Hall shortly after 1pm. Saoirse Exton, 13, led the protests with her friend Caitlin Ni Chaoindealbhain, 14, by her side. I have always been scared of global warming. I think everyone in there right mind is scared of global warming. But I said to myself I cant do anything about it, and its going to be alright. But its not going to be alright. Our world is going to die if we dont do anything, said Saoirse. Something really needs to be done, because we dont have a lot of time left. I want my children and my childrens children to have a world to live in, she added. Chants of protest were lead by Saoirse, who had the crowds in the palm of her hand. We as teenagers can not directly take action because we are not environmental scientists, and we are not politicians. But we are doing everything we can and yet, we are still being told we are dossing. They say we are not going to find solutions. I am not striking to find solutions. I am striking so the politicians listen to the scientists who have the solutions, said Saoirse Im striking for climate for those who cant. Im striking for the animals, the polar bears that are going to die in my lifetime. The rodent who is already gone extinct. I strike for them. Mayor James Collins was on hand to lend his support to Saoirse and her fellow protesters. We have a lot of issues, even here in Limerick. We have a public meeting next Thursday at 7pm in the South Court Hotel, to protest against a proposed incinerator for Irish cement in Mungret. These are global issues but they are also local issues, said Mayor Collins. The protests are the culmination of the school strikes for climate campaign sparked by Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg, who has been a campaigning voice for a greater response to climate change. AMERICAN president Donald Trump helped save hundreds of jobs in West Limerick, it has emerged this Saturday. Mr Trump, who met Taoiseach Leo Varadkar this week, confirmed in the White House that he had a role in helping safeguard up to 700 positions at the Aughnish Alumina plant, now run by Russian energy giant Rusal. Sanctions imposed by the USA against Russia in the bitter trade war had put these jobs at risk, in what would have been a huge blow to the local economy, with the firm one of Limericks biggest employers. However, just before Christmas the US treasury announced it would lift sanctions that had been imposed on Rusal, something Mr Trump had a role in. Mr Varadkar praised Mr Trump, saying: hundreds of jobs were threatened as a result of the Russian sanctions. And with the help of the administration, we were able to save those jobs. Mr Trump replied: Thats right. They [the press] dont know about that. Mr Varadkars spokesman confirmed that the threat of the sanctions on the plant was first raised at last years Washington DC meeting with Mr Trump. Mr Varadkar had said a lot of jobs depended on it, that the plant was important for EU aluminium producers and for Irish exports. After the Republican President asked his officials to look into the issue, authorities designed a solution so the alumina refinery near Foynes would not be subject to these sanctions. A restructuring deal was then agreed to end Russian oligarch and billionaire Oleg Deirpaskas control of Rusal. In January, the US Senate then voted to support the White House efforts to lift the sanctions. Rusal supplies 6% of the worlds aluminium and operates mines, and refineries in locations including Ireland Jamaica, and Russia. Calling it quits (Image credit: Getty Images) Should you break up with your partner? It's a difficult choice, but science may be able to help with your decision. Does your partner constantly criticize you? Did any cheating take place? Do you have different religious or political values, and you're unsure whether that will be challenging to deal with later on? The research world is brimming with studies on relationships, especially on those that don't work out. Here are 12 telltale signs that you might want to consider when you're thinking about ditching your significant other. Constant criticism (Image credit: Shutterstock) If your partner is constantly criticizing you, you may want to call it quits. This means more than occasionally griping about some unwashed dishes; this one is about "constant criticism of the person, instead of the action that you'd like to have changed," said Stephanie Coontz, a historian at The Evergreen State College in Washington and the author of "Marriage, a History: How Love Conquered Marriage" (Penguin Books, 2006). These damaging criticisms take an action and attribute it to a person's entire personality. For instance, if your partner doesn't pick up his socks off the bedroom floor, it would be damaging to attribute this perceived carelessness to his entire personality and feelings toward you. Criticism is one of the so-called "Four Horsemen of the apocalypse," a term coined by John Gottman, a professor emeritus of psychology at the University of Washington and co-founder of The Gottman Institute, who researches conflict in married couples. If your partner engages in any of the Four Horsemen behaviors and doesn't change, despite sessions with a counselor or discussions with you, then it may be time to head to splitsville. Contempt (Image credit: Shutterstock) If your partner is rolling his or her eyes (and not in a cute way) at things you say and treating you with disrespect, then they're treating you with contempt. "That could be anything ranging from being dismissive of the other partner's feelings to name-calling," said Erica Slotter, an associate professor of psychology at Villanova University in Pennsylvania. For instance, calling a partner "stupid" isn't healthy for any relationship. If this behavior doesn't change, it may be time to wave goodbye for good. Defensiveness (Image credit: Getty Images) If you bring up a concern with your partner, but your partner becomes defensive, things can quickly go south. Sometimes, your so-called sweetie may resort to "cross complaining," or "whataboutism" which is when the other person doesn't respond to your concerns but instead introduces a new complaint as a retort. For example, you might say, "Hey, it bothered me when you dumped your dirty laundry on the bed." A defensive partner might deflect the criticism by responding, "Well, it really bothers me when you don't do the dishes." Stonewalling (Image credit: Shutterstock) The last of the Four Horsemen is stonewalling. The term basically means that the person withdraws from the interaction, in effect stonewalling instead of participating in the conversation. "It could be changing the topic, it could be leaving the room," Slotter told Live Science. "It could just be refusing to make eye contact or engaging in the discussion." If your partner stonewalls when you bring up issues that are important to you or your relationship, that's a red flag that tells you that perhaps it's best to end things. Physical abuse (Image credit: Shutterstock) If your partner is physically abusing you, that's definitely a reason to leave the relationship. The official term is "intimate partner violence," which can happen any time there is an act of physical aggression or violence against a romantic partner that is designed to cause harm and is unwanted by the partner, Slotter said. There are multiple types of intimate partner violence, according to Michael Johnson, an emeritus professor of sociology, women's studies and African and African American studies at Penn State. One of those types is intimate terrorism, or violence designed to control and manipulate a partner. "It tends to be very severe," Slotter said. "It tends to be escalating in nature, so violent episodes become more violent over time." Oftentimes, the perpetrator has a psychological disorder, such as a personality disorder or substance-abuse disorder. Another type of physical abuse is situational couple violence, in which partners resort to minor (but still harmful) violence when a conflict gets out of hand. "They're not using physical violence to try to control the behavior of the other," Slotter said. "It's more of a [form of] severe conflict mismanagement." Emotional abuse (Image credit: Getty Images) Like physical abuse, emotional abuse can take a toll. Psychological abuse can involve insults, belittling, constant humiliation, intimidation (such as destroying things), threats of harm and threats of taking away children, according to the World Health Organization. Moreover, psychological aggression is a predictor that a person will later use physical aggression when lashing out against their partner, a study in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology found. So, take care of yourself, and dump your significant other if you're being emotionally abused. Dissimilar beliefs (Image credit: Getty Images) Do you and your partner follow different religions? Or is one of you a spendthrift and the other a cheapskate? Or do you hold diametrically opposed political beliefs? All of these potentially explosive issues can affect whether we see ourselves as similar or dissimilar to our partners, Slotter said. When you first meet a potential love interest, "the more similar they are to us, the more we tend to like them," Slotter said. This holds true for everything from hobbies to demographics to, yes, religious and political beliefs. But whether you're a good match is more complex than whether you both like to play "Pokemon Go" or watch horror movies. It all comes down to the story we tell ourselves about our partners. "It's about perception of similarity," Slotter said. "If I think that my partner and I are very similar, that's good. If I perceive my partner as like me, that's a big satisfaction for me in the relationship." So, even if your friends think you and your partner are really different, it doesn't matter. It's all about how you perceive your partner, Slotter said. Usually, couples become more alike over time, but our perceptions of our partners can also change in the long run. And if you feel that your partner is more dissimilar than similar to you, then it could be time for a deep conversation, or maybe even a Dear John (or Jane) letter. Unequal commitment (Image credit: Shutterstock) What if one person wants to settle down, and the other wants to keep their options open? Again, this harkens back to how similar or dissimilar you are to your partner. If one person wants to take coupledom to the next level and the other resists, they have dissimilar long-term goals, and that can be problematic, Slotter said. It also shows unequal commitment, she said. The person who is less invested in the relationship usually has the most power in the relationship. In other words, the less invested person can usually get away with more than the committed person. Generally speaking, that's not good for relationships, and "it does tend to be associated with relationship termination," Slotter said. That's because the less committed partner might get frustrated that the other person is trying to increase their commitment. Or, because the committed partner is fed up with the less invested partner "kind of hemming and hawing and sitting on the fence," Slotter said. "That may not fit their needs long term, and so they may exit the relationship." Cheating (Image credit: Shutterstock) Do cheaters always cheat again? It depends, research shows. Granted, if your partner cheats, first you have to decide if you want to stay together. If you do want to give it another go, know this: If someone cheats, there is a higher likelihood that he or she will cheat again, Pepper Schwartz, a sociologist at the University of Washington and co-author of "The Normal Bar: The Surprising Secrets of Happy Couples" (Harmony, 2013), previously told Live Science. However, most cheaters have one or two affairs, Schwartz said. It's only a small minority who are serial cheaters and cheat their entire lives, she said. Stressful spillovers (Image credit: Getty Images) No couple is an island. After getting married, newlyweds often have to deal with external stressors, such as financial strains, complicated in-laws and parenting demands, if they decide to have children. If couples are unable to cope with these external stressors, that puts them at risk for divorce, according to research by Lisa Neff, an associate professor in the Department of Human Development and Family Sciences at the University of Texas at Austin. "When those stressors exceed coping abilities, that can actually erode marital happiness over time," said Slotter, who was not involved in the research. Federal attorneys have arrested 50 people in a college admission scam that allowed wealthy parents to buy their kids' admission to elite universities. Prosecutors found that parents together paid up to US$6.5 million to get their kids into college. The list includes celebrity parents such as actresses Felicity Huffman and Lori Loughlin. Some might ask why did these parents fail to consider the moral implications of their actions? My 20 years of research in moral psychology suggests many reasons why people behave in an unethical manner. When it comes to the wealthy, research shows that they will go to great lengths to maintain their higher status. A sense of entitlement plays a role. How people rationalize Let's first consider what allows people to act unethically and yet not feel guilt or remorse. Research shows that people are good at rationalizing unethical actions that serve their self-interest. The success, or failure, of one's children often has implications for how parents view themselves and are viewed by others. They are more likely to bask in the reflected glory of their children. They seem to gain esteem based on their connection to successful children. This means parents can be motivated by self-interest to ensure their children's achievement. In the case of cheating for their children, parents can justify the behavior through comparisons that help them morally disengage with an action. For example, they could say that other parents' do a lot worse things, or minimize the consequences of their actions through words such as, "My behavior did not cause much harm." Viewing the unethical outcomes as serving others, including one's children, could help parents create a psychological distance to rationalize misconduct. Several studies demonstrate that people are more likely to be unethical when their actions also help someone else. For example, it is easier for employees to accept a bribe when they plan to share the proceeds with coworkers. Sense of entitlement When it comes to the wealthy and privileged, a sense of entitlement, or a belief that one is deserving of privileges over others, can play an important role in unethical conduct. Privileged individuals are also less likely to follow rules and instructions given they believe the rules are unjust. Because they feel deserving of more than their fair share, they are willing to violate norms of appropriate and socially agreed upon conduct. Feeling a sense of entitlement also leads people to be more competitive, selfish and aggressive when they sense a threat. For example, white males are less likely to support affirmative action to even the playing field because it threatens their privileged status. Research suggests that entitlement may come in part from being rich. Wealthy individuals who are considered as "upper class" based on their income have been found to lie, steal and cheat more to get what they desire. They have also been found to be less generous. They are more likely to break the law when driving, give less help to strangers in need, and generally give others less attention. Additionally, growing up with wealth is associated with more narcissistic behavior, which results in selfishness, expressing a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. Consequences of status loss Individuals who think they deserve unfair advantages are more likely to take actions to increase their level of status, such as ensuring their children attend high-status universities. Losing status appears to be particularly threatening for high-status individuals. A recent review of the research on status demonstrates that status loss, or even a fear of status loss, has been associated with an increase in suicide attempts. Individuals have been reported to show physiological changes such as higher blood pressure and pulse. Such individuals also made increased efforts to avoid status loss by being willing to pay money and allocating resources to themselves. In their book "The Coddling of the American Mind," First Amendment expert Greg Lukianoff and social psychologist Jonathan Haidt make the case that parents, especially in the upper class, are increasingly anxious about their children attending top universities. These authors argue that given economic prospects are less certain because of stagnating wages, automation and globalization, wealthier parents tend to be particularly concerned about the future economic opportunities for their children. Feeling invulnerable People who feel a sense of power, which often comes along with wealth and fame, tend to be less likely to believe they are vulnerable to the detrimental consequences of unethical behavior. Experiencing a psychological sense of power leads to a false feeling of control. It could also lead to increased risk-taking and a decrease in concern for others. It is possible that some of these moral psychology reasons were behind these wealthy parents cheating on behalf of their children. A desire to go to great lengths to help one's child is admirable. However, when those lengths cross ethical boundaries it is a step too far. David M. Mayer, Professor of Management & Organizations, University of Michigan This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Follow all of the Expert Voices issues and debates and become part of the discussion on Facebook, Twitter and Google +. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. This version of the article was originally published on Live Science. p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'} span.s1 {color: #dca10d} In two weeks, the state fiscal year ends, with a fair chance a new budget for next year is not in place. What? No, no, say it ain't so. A late budget? Can New York survive? If you believe what the governor has promoted since he took office that an on-time state budget equals success, a late budget, failure, well, that's your problem. It's not true. Yes, a chronically late budget shows a general disregard and disrespect for justified public expectations and is a bad habit. And a late, late budget can stress local governments and school districts. But the occasional principled late budget can be better government by far than accepting the claptrap demands of a governor stamping his foot simply because he holds a better hand in the budget process. That's thanks to a lousy Court of Appeals decision back in the Pataki days that allows the governor to fold public policy into the state's prime fiscal document. My learned colleague, the very smart and mostly wise former Assemblyman Richard Brodsky, tells us that taking the budget process into overtime is one of the few negotiating pressures the Legislature can bring to bear. The governor, after all, has more on his mind than a budget, and he's boxed in by his own definition of success. But beyond political maneuvering, better public policy comes out of discussion, transparency, give and take. Which can and should take time. We have not had enough of that in the Andrew Cuomo years. And in a year such as we are experiencing, with a fluid budget deficit and anticipated revenues, huge disparities in the ask and offer concerning big ticket items like school aid, a hostile Washington, Democrats now in control of both houses of the Legislature and just getting their footing, late is justified. Arguably an imperative to get it right. As the ultimate authority on the subject, I give you the revered late and former Gov. Mario Cuomo, who said year after year during his tenure in office that a good budget always trumps an on-time budget. His son, our current sitting governor, the one who for a while wished to be called Amazon but not so much anymore, is masterful in getting his way at budget crunch time. This is the year he needs to be checked. Make no mistake, the most important event so far this legislative session happened elsewhere. It was Andrew Cuomo's remarkable screw-up of the Amazon deal in Long Island City, which in fact raises far more questions than it answers about the state hideously inept and cosmically expensive economic development programs, not to mention his governing style. This would have been the biggest deal of his administration's history. Failure sent him on a fuming tirade. His rather arrogant even for him 100 days of channeling FDR to accomplish everything legislative under the sun that looked so rosy back in December appears to have turned post-Amazon into something of a Napoleonic 100-day march into Russia. Not so much fun. He has no one to blame but himself, although typically, that's the last person he'll blame. There were other factors pushing the shocking withdrawal by Amazon, from a weak commitment by the world leader in ecommerce, to a lack of support, and outright hostility, from players who could have been more helpful. But Cuomo was central in creating the chilling atmosphere that evolved into failure. At his insistence, he was in charge. The critical decision that led us to the dumpster and eventually sent Amazon scurrying to northern Virginia was choosing to ignore the city's Uniform Land Use Review Process, an exhaustive and very public review for such major developments. Instead, Cuomo and his partner, the hapless mayor of New York, used a state Urban Development Corporation process called a general project plan, which avoided the public altogether until the deal was done, which in turn elicited a very bad public reaction, not just from the left. A road map that had Cuomo's stamp all over it. You might get away with it in Buffalo, but not in Queens. That was on Valentine's Day. Three days earlier, a Siena College poll already had Cuomo with his lowest ratings since he took office as governor. Downstaters from Long Island and the city were finally getting an eyeful of the Cuomo style on congestion pricing and the subway and MTA fixes, and they weren't loving it. Regrettably, we've had no polls since Amazon Gone, which seems odd, although we do have one tomorrow. For the poll-driven governor as well as the rest of us, polling is most helpful to show us who the public blames for the debacle. With shrill disdain the governor blamed state Senate Democrats and the new Democratic left for sending the wrong message to Amazon about the state's commitment. I'm not sure they did send Amazon the wrong message, or any other future large developer coming to New York. Actual message: include the public and make a better deal. Besides, I suspect any message was really for the governor. But did he hear it? flebrun@timesunion.com 518-454-5453 A man has been arrested for using a knife to kidnap a woman who was standing at a corner along San Bernardo Avenue, according to Laredo police. Guillermo Castilla, 65, was charged with aggravated kidnapping. He is out on bond, according to Webb County Jail records. READ ALSO: Police nab man who allegedly stole vitamins from local H-E-B At about 2:45 a.m. Thursday, police officers responded to the intersection of Ugarte Street and San Francisco Avenue. A woman called 911 to say that she was forced inside a vehicle. She kept updating authorities over the phone on her location. Responding officers spotted a vehicle matching the description in the 400 block of Okane Street. An officer pulled over the vehicle for a traffic violation. Officers approached and found Castilla and the caller. Castilla was detained. RELATED: 22-year-old man arrested in reported armed kidnapping attempt on San Antonio River Walk The woman stated she was standing in the corner of the 3900 block of San Bernardo Avenue waiting for a friend to pick her up. Then, Castilla approached her, brandished a knife and told her to get into his vehicle, authorities said. When she refused, he allegedly grabbed her by the wrist and forced her inside the vehicle. She stated she was able to call for help when Castilla got distracted, according to police. She stated she had no relation to Castilla and added that she had never seen him prior to the incident. A utility knife was seized as evidence, LPD said. The winning artworks of the 2019 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo's School Art Program raked in some serious cash at the Rodeo Art Auction this week. Out of 648 entries into the program, 72 were chosen as winners and were auctioned off March 10 at the NRG Arena Sales Pavilion. Of those 72 selected entries, two students from Pasadena ISD took the top two highest honors in the competition. Pasadena ISD student Hector Maldonado's artwork "After the Storm Comes a Calm" was dubbed the 2019 Grand Champion Work of Art, and Pasadena ISD student Melissa Sosa's piece, "Wouldn't Change a Thing" was named the 2019 Grand Reserve Champion Work of Art. Maldonado's artwork - which he said he added details to up until the night before the contest deadline - earned a Rodeo record when it sold for $240,000 at the auction. "I wanted it to be perfect," Maldonado told the Chronicle. RODEO ART CHAMP: Last-minute entry snags top prize at Rodeo art auction Maldonado's perfectionist nature worked in his favor considering his win earned him a scholarship of up to $38,000. The Grand Reserve Champion Work of Art done by Sosa sold for $180,000. Last year, the two top winning artworks were sold for a $225,000 and $150,000 each, according to the HLSR website. Sosa and Maldonado's pieces earned the highest bids at the auction, but students' other artworks also sold for some hefty price tags, ranging from as high as $75,000 to $5,000. If you missed the artworks while they were on display in the Hayloft Gallery at the Rodeo, click through the photos above to see the stunning works of art and how much they sold for at auction... 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 Galveston County Jail Authorities have released the identity of a 30-year old man who died at the Galveston County Jail Thursday morning. Ronald Cotton Jr. of La Marque died early Thursday after reports that he was dehydrated, according to the Galveston County Sheriff's Office. Cotton was taken to University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston at 6:20 p.m. Wednesday evening and pronounced dead at 12:44 a.m. Thursday. CNN's Impact Your World is vetting organizations where you can donate to help those affected by the tragedy in New Zealand. One of them is the New Zealand Council of Victim Support Groups. It has launched a crowdfunding campaign to collect funds helping victims of the attacks and their families. CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand - From pop-up relief tents dispensing tea and cookies to overwhelmed morgues, this placid city of parks and gardens struggled over the weekend to cope with the aftermath of a massacre as police announced the discovery of another victim, raising the death count to 50, and the suspected shooter made his first appearance in court. Avowed neo-Nazi Brenton Harrison Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian, flashed what appeared to be a white-power hand signal, a possible dark joke to online extremists, as he was escorted into the courtroom Saturday. He entered no plea to one count of murder related to the massacre at two mosques on Friday. Officials said he would face additional charges and make another court appearance in April. Police said evidence so far suggests Tarrant was the lone gunman. Some families still waited to learn the fates of unaccounted-for loved ones. Others, freshly grieving, clamored for harried medical examiners to release loved ones' remains in time to meet Islamic rules for quick burial. Police were still processing the pair of massive, crosstown crime scenes as other investigators sifted through Tarrant's background, a puzzling mix of global travel and insular hatred. Thirty-six victims remained hospitalized over the weekend, two in intensive care. It was the city's worst toll of death and injury since a lunchtime earthquake devastated swaths of the city and killed 185 people in 2011. To many, the hate-fueled violence of Friday's attack was an even more painful blow. "The earthquakes were natural disasters. This is man-made," said a woman giving out refreshments from a Salvation Army church near one of the mosques. She had pies heating in an oven for passersby. On a mild, late-summer weekend that normally would have been abuzz with activity in this outdoors-loving country, a quiet pall had settled on the city. Many shops remained closed, and the large park across the street from Al Noor Mosque, where at least 41 worshipers were killed, was empty but for the curious staring at the police tape and flashing lights below the golden dome. Pedestrians paused in disbelief and shock, wrote on a giant plastic condolence sheet and laid flowers. No one spoke above a whisper. Many expressed disbelief, sympathy for the victims and baffled fury at Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian who had lived on and off in New Zealand in recent years. Police named Tarrant as the primary suspect in what was called the deadliest attack in New Zealand history - and one of the worst cases of right-wing terrorism in years - after he allegedly stormed the two houses of worship during midday prayers and mowed down dozens of huddling and fleeing worshipers while live-streaming the killing over social media with a body-mounted camera. Two others have been arrested in connection with the shootings: A second man, 18-year-old Daniel John Burrough, is expected to appear in court Monday and face charges of inciting racial hostility or ill will. Police said Sunday they do not believe he was involved in the shootings. A third person, suspected of being an accomplice, remains unidentified. Photos from Tarrant's hearing, which was closed to the public by Judge Paul Kellar in the interest of safety - an unusual move for New Zealand courts - showed Tarrant standing at the dock in white prison garb. He stayed silent throughout. His face, by the judge's order, was pixelated in the photographs to protect the integrity of the trial process. The shocking assault reverberated through the country over the weekend. After a pledge by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern to update the country's gun-control laws, New Zealand Attorney General David Parker said at a vigil that semiautomatic weapons would be banned. Officials later demurred, saying more debate and analysis would be needed before new laws were adopted. Ardern also promised an examination of why Tarrant had escaped official notice before allegedly launching a well-planned assault that plunged New Zealand into one of its "darkest days." Security officials are investigating whether they had overlooked warning signs, she said. The New Zealand Herald reported Saturday that minutes before the attack began, Tarrant sent a copy of a lengthy manifesto explaining his actions to Ardern's office and many media outlets. None of the three arrested suspects had criminal records, and Tarrant had a registered address in southern New Zealand but lived in the country sporadically. Instead, the former fitness trainer led an itinerant lifestyle and traveled extensively, visiting Bulgaria, North Korea and countries with large Muslim populations, including Turkey and Pakistan, officials said. Tarrant obtained a license in November 2017 for the guns that police say were used in the shootings at the two mosques; he began purchasing the weapons that December, according to officials, and at least some of them had been modified. Harried coroners and pathologists raced to determine official causes of death for the unprecedented number of criminal casualties even as families pleaded to begin their Islamic death rites. "We are so aware of the culture and religious needs, so we are doing that as quickly and as sensitively as possible," Christchurch Police Commissioner Mike Bush said Sunday. The medical staffs, along with victim assistance teams being deployed across the city, were bringing their experience from the 2011 earthquake to the current crisis, he said. "Unfortunately, we have been through traumatic things before," Bush said. Residents, too, were offering each other solace in ways they learned when their city was so recently devastated. With many shops still closed after the shooting rampage, people laid flowers and handwritten signs during large vigils. Others volunteered at comfort stations near the mosques. Outside the Christchurch courtroom Saturday, Omar and Yama Nabi spoke about their slain father, Hajji Daoud Nabi, 71, a refugee of the Soviet-Afghan war who arrived in New Zealand decades ago. Survivors told Omar Nabi that his father had leaped on top of another worshiper as a human shield when the attack unfolded at Al Noor Mosque. Nabi went to the court to get a glimpse of the man who killed his father, he said, but the public was not allowed inside. "I need to sit there and watch what's going on," Nabi said. "One part of me wants to kill him, but this is not what I want to portray Muslims as." Yama Nabi narrowly escaped danger after arriving late for Friday prayers. By the time he arrived, he said, he saw a Somali man cradling his dead son and bodies strewn in the mosque's hallway, a grisly scene visible from the street. As the overcast sky gave way to gently pattering rain, Rami, 28, stood outside Christchurch General Hospital and recalled his desperation on Friday as he spoke on the phone with his father, who had been shot and was bleeding inside the mosque. Police would not let Rami - who spoke on the condition his last name not be used - or paramedics into the mosque immediately after the shooting while they tried to ensure that the area was secured. "It was a horrific incident and horrific to be on the phone to my dad," Rami said as he waited outside the hospital for his father to emerge from nerve reconstruction surgery. "He was shot in the thigh and the buttocks; it hit his hip," he said. "He's in a lot of pain." Officials canceled sporting events and religious gatherings scheduled to take place in Christchurch over the weekend, including a Saturday cricket test match between Bangladesh and New Zealand. Some members of the Bangladeshi team narrowly escaped the attack Friday. Isaac Herzog, chairman of the New York-based Jewish Agency for Israel, tweeted that synagogues in New Zealand were closing their doors over Shabbat "for the first time in history," with some remaining closed over the weekend on police advice. The killings touched a nerve around the world. In Australia, right-wing Sen. Fraser Anning released a statement on Friday saying that "the real cause of bloodshed on New Zealand streets today is the immigration program which allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place." Anning doubled down at a news conference in Melbourne on Saturday, where a scuffle broke out when a teenager smashed an egg on the back of the controversial senator's head. Anning responded by punching his assailant in the face, and some of his supporters then seized and restrained the 17-year-old. Authorities in Australia said Tarrant's relatives in the small city of Grafton had come forward to assist with their investigation into his past and his path to radicalization. In the manifesto laying out his thinking and influences, Tarrant said he developed racist views and began planning his operation in 2017 after a trip to Europe. On Friday, Bulgaria's chief prosecutor, Sotir Tsatsarov, said Tarrant flew to Sofia, the capital, in November 2018 and spent about a week in the Balkan country. Prosecutors there are investigating whether he visited as a tourist "or if he had other objectives." Tarrant titled his 16,000-word screed "The Great Replacement," echoing the name of a book by far-right French polemicist Renaud Camus. The phrase has also been the rallying cry of others in the far right including the torch-bearing protesters who marched in Charlottesville in 2017. Hendrix reported from Washington. Rebecca Macfie in Christchurch and Siobhan O'Grady in Washington contributed to this report. The wounded tried to crawl away or lie still, while others ran or crouched behind the dead, but the gunman kept pulling the trigger. He shot fleeing women and girls, and pumped bullet after bullet into piles of motionless men and boys in a house of worship. The man accused of carrying out the worst mass murder in New Zealand's modern history, one that left 49 people dead and more than 40 wounded at two mosques in Christchurch, was identified in court documents on Saturday as Brenton Harrison Tarrant, 28. The suspect, who officials said is an Australian citizen, was charged with one count of murder, and more were expected to come. It remained unclear whether there was just one gunman. Three other people were detained by the police, but one was released hours later. The horror was designed for an era that has married social media and racism a massacre motivated by white extremist hatred, streamed live on Facebook and calculated to go viral. The shooting represented a staggering corruption of a form of communication, used innocently by millions, that promised to draw people together but has also helped pry them apart into warring camps. It also shattered a veneer of civility and security in one of the safest and most highly developed countries in the world. A man at the door to the Al Noor mosque on Deans Avenue called out "hello, brother," just before the approaching killer opened fire with a semiautomatic rifle. Seconds later, a wounded man, trying to crawl away, was shot again at point-blank range. Within moments, terror and chaos gripped the people gathered at the mosque for Friday prayers, as they ran, screamed and tried to climb the walls around the building. Parents tried to shield their children, others ducked behind or under parked cars, and at least one nearby resident opened her home to shelter people fleeing the mayhem. The Facebook video, shot from the killer's helmet-mounted camera, and a 74-page statement that the authorities said was written by the gunman, point to an array of possible role models, from racist mass murderers to Oswald Mosley, the 20th-century British fascist. Standard white supremacist and far-right nationalist tropes, like fears of a "white genocide," are sprinkled throughout the statement. There are also elements of a self-flattering reach for larger meaning: references to centuries-ago battles between Christians and Muslims are scrawled on his guns, and on the video he refers to his slaughter of unarmed people as "the firefight." But the potential clues in the statement appeared to be as much an exercise in misdirection, provocation and "trolling" as a statement of any ideology, making it hard to separate belief from inside jokes among extremists, deliberate baiting and pointless hate. New safeguards developed by tech companies over the last 18 months were not enough to stop the video and statement from being widely posted, on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram. While Facebook and Twitter took down pages thought to be linked to the gunman, the posted content was spread rapidly through other accounts. Some people appeared to be using techniques to evade automated systems that find and delete content. President Donald Trump on Friday described the attack as "a horrible disgraceful thing, horrible act." But when asked if he saw white nationalism as a rising threat around the world, he said: "I don't really. I think it's a small group of people that have very, very serious problems, I guess." Many Western leaders denounced the attack as an act of terrorism, and made a point of stating their support for Muslims. "Through terror attacks that have taken place on U.K. soil we know only too well the pain that such horrifying attacks can cause," Prime Minister Theresa May of Britain said. "As New Zealand has stood by us so we stand shoulder to shoulder with them, and with Muslims in New Zealand, here in the U.K. and around the world." WASHINGTON - House Speaker Nancy Pelosi changed the impeachment debate with a five-word flourish that helped steady her wobbly caucus: "He's just not worth it." Pelosi, D-Calif., had been talking down impeaching President Donald Trump for months, but she used an interview with The Washington Post Magazine to deliver her clearest statement so far and tried to refocus liberals on defeating Republicans at the ballot box in 2020. Her remarks, which were published Monday, exploded across the internet and TV news. A few days later, Pelosi reflected on the reaction by complaining that she had been trying to say this for many months but that no one seemed to hear her prior comments opposing impeachment. "I've made it all through the campaign. I made it in our transition. And I've made it every week. It didn't seem to catch on until I had a gimmick: 'He's not worth it.' Boom, it explodes," she told reporters at her weekly Thursday briefing. That hashtag-worthy declaration against impeachment - unless several factors come together to produce a "compelling and overwhelming" case that Republicans will support - found strong support, particularly among freshman Democrats who won GOP seats in 2018. The first six weeks of the new majority had already been focused on a massive showdown with Trump over his demand for a border wall, including swearing in the new freshmen amid a record-setting 35-day shutdown of parts of the federal government. A mid-February recess served as the first extended chance for the newcomers to spend time with their constituents, and few of those swing-district voters seemed interested in impeachment. Then over the past three weeks, the stakes escalated, as Trump's former lawyer testified at a House hearing that included allegations of criminal behavior, and the House Judiciary Committee demanded documents from more than 80 people or entities associated with the president. Some of the more outspoken liberals began to demand impeachment hearings, even before special counsel Robert Mueller reports on his investigation of whether there were ties between Trump campaign and Russia in 2016. All that came as Democrats splintered over support of Israel and controversial remarks by some of the most liberal members of the caucus. But Pelosi effectively sidelined impeachment, for now, and that led to several relatively quiet days before Democrats left Washington on Thursday for a 10-day recess. "I give her credit for allowing this very broad tent of Democrats right now to express themselves and bring their own perspectives to the caucus and be relatively supportive of all of us," said Rep. Dean Phillips, D-Minn., a freshman who won a GOP seat in the Twin Cities suburbs. Phillips said that he tells constituents the same thing about Trump - "Wait for the facts," he says - but Democrats know they eventually will have to figure out a better answer. "There are a lot of voices, but at the end of the day, all points lead through the same thing, which is the Mueller report," Phillips said. The impeachment question had the chance to divide the Democratic coalition. Many activists see Trump's removal from office as the ultimate objective of the new majority, while others see the presidency in 2020 as the top goal. Those Democrats fear that a partisan impeachment that ends in deadlock in the Senate would only help Trump's re-election. Now, with Pelosi setting the ground rules, these Democrats have a ready-made answer if activists dominate their town halls next week. If liberals demand that the first-term Democrat impeach Trump, the response is simple: Listen to Nancy Pelosi, she's set the standard for when impeachment could begin. If conservatives cry "witch hunt" and complain of overly aggressive investigations into Trump, the lawmaker now has an easy answer: Nancy Pelosi said she's "not for impeachment" so this cannot possibly be a witch hunt. Some Democrats said that Pelosi has laid down a marker that if Mueller's report is not a slam dunk, they can explain to the far left that House committees will continue forceful oversight and impose political pain on the president without commencing impeachment hearings. She has the standing, they believe, to make that vow and still be trusted. "If Nancy Pelosi can't have standing with the liberal crowd, we've got bigger problems than that," one centrist Democrat said, requesting anonymity to discuss internal caucus dynamics. By Friday afternoon, Need to Impeach, the group funded by billionaire Tom Steyer, felt the need to issue a memo citing a litany of liberal voices that still support ousting Trump from office. "While House Speaker Nancy Pelosi attempted to tamp down talk of impeachment last week, the demand for action on impeachment continues to grow," the group said in a statement. But Pelosi has had a long-standing opposition to impeachment, unless it is a bipartisan exercise. For the interview with The Post's Joe Heim, Pelosi sat comfortably in the speaker's office that she occupied for four years last decade, the first person to win back the gavel in more than 50 years. She began the interview by comparing today's political climate to other eras, citing the 1998 impeachment of President Bill Clinton on accusations of perjury and obstruction of justice. "There's no question that that was horrible for the country. It was unnecessary and the rest," Pelosi told Heim. That could be read as a message to Mueller: She will be reluctant to push impeachment if his report focuses on Trump's hush money to mistresses. After the interview was published, she reminded reporters that some liberals wanted her to begin impeachment proceedings against President George W. Bush over his handling of the Iraq War when she became speaker in 2007. "I didn't believe in it then, I don't believe in it now. It divides the country, unless there's some conclusive evidence that takes us to that place," she said. This was music to the ears of some Democrats. Phillips said that during his last round of town halls, he did not face many questions related to Trump scandals or impeachment. This time around, he does not expect to face those issues - unless a certain special counsel files his report. "The Mueller report, that's going to be the igniter," Phillips said, "and that's when people are going to take sides." It was the mildest of compliments from a predecessor: Joe Biden rather benignly described Vice President Mike Pence as a "decent guy." And that's when the attacks began. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., one of several 2020 Democratic candidates to weigh in, told MSNBC that Pence is "not an honorable person." Senator Kamala Harris, D-Calif., said it was "ridiculous" and "outrageous" that he is unwilling to meet privately with female staff - prompting a flurry of Twitter refutations from top female administration officials. And at a CNN town hall, South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg referred to Pence as "the cheerleader of the porn star presidency," wondering aloud if "he stopped believing in scripture when he started believing in Donald Trump." Pence has found himself thrust unwittingly into the center of the 2020 presidential debate, becoming a square-jawed punching bag for Democrats and, at times, even some in his own party. Ever willing to defend Trump, Pence has drawn fervent opposition from a Democratic base that opposes his socially conservative policies and his docile allegiance to the president. Some Republicans are also increasingly airing their grievances about the president to Pence, who was part of the administration's unsuccessful effort this week to keep GOP senators from breaking with Trump on a vote to reject his national emergency declaration at the southern border. Yet in some ways, the public abasement of Pence is good for all sides - including for Pence himself. Aides and allies of the vice president take an optimistic view, saying it offers fresh evidence of Pence's willingness to absorb arrows for a president who places a premium on loyalty. On Friday, as Trump vetoed the Senate's embarrassing rejection of his national emergency declaration, the vice president again demonstrated his fealty. "I don't know if I've ever been more proud to be standing next to your desk than I am today," Pence said, saying his boss was "keeping your word by vetoing this legislation." Nick Ayers, Pence's former chief of staff, said the vice president sometimes finds himself a political bull's eye because he "works hard" to avoid taking credit for the work he does. "When his advice is taken, we don't read about it," Ayers said. "More importantly, when his advice is not taken, we don't read about it. It's nearly impossible to find a friend like that in Washington, but the president knows he has that in Mike Pence. But that also makes you an easy target." Mike Murphy, a Republican strategist and frequent Trump critic, offers a less flattering view, describing Pence as a "supplicant." "Pence has made a decision to have a constituency of one person - Donald Trump," Murphy said. "And so he doesn't really care about anything else, which on one hand is liberating, but if he's smart, also ought to be terrifying because he's hanging everything on the affection and allegiance of a mad man." Pence rarely responds directly to his critics. The White House sees the sharpening criticism from Democrats as political overreach that will turn off voters and help Trump's reelection, according to two administration officials who requested anonymity to discuss the vice president's strategy. Attacking Pence, however, plays well among Democrats, especially those striving to differentiate themselves in a crowded field. Biden's modest praise of Pence, delivered during a speech at the University of Nebraska Omaha late last month, received immediate backlash from actress and activist Cynthia Nixon, who chided Biden on Twitter for calling "America's most anti-LGBT elected leader 'a decent guy.'" "Please consider how this falls on the ears of our community," she wrote. Biden, who is considering a presidential run, responded to say Nixon was "right" and that "there is nothing decent about being anti-LGBTQ rights, and that includes the Vice President." Pence, meanwhile, told Fox News on Thursday that Biden had "caved in to liberal activists" in apologizing for his original comments. When asked for their views on Pence, other Democratic candidates have used the opportunity to distance themselves from Biden, who is believed likely to announce his own 2020 candidacy soon. Buttigieg, who is gay and a fellow Indianan, has been the most aggressive in taking on Pence, a former governor of the state. Buttigieg has described Pence as the kind of Republican who should know better but is enabling Trump rather than using his influence to rein him in. In a telephone interview, Buttigieg said he has two theories of what he views as Pence's evolution from a stalwart Christian conservative to Trump lackey - either Pence "traded his sense of morality for power," he said, or the vice president "has somehow persuaded himself that this is consistent with some divine plan." "The president doesn't really pretend that hard to uphold Christian values and so I think there's a sense when he's doing some of these outrageous things, that everybody's in on the joke," Buttigieg said. But with Pence, he added, "you don't get that same sense." White House officials said Buttigieg and other Democrats are only trying to raise their profiles by sharpening their attacks on Pence, a strategy that they say alienates millions of Christian voters. A senior administration official said Buttigieg and Pence, while disagreeing on a number of issues, had a largely good working relationship in Indiana and cast Buttigieg's recent comments as purely political. "The fact that he has more or less become a litmus test for the Democrats in 2020 essentially speaks to the fact that he's become the gold standard for what it means to be a conservative," said Pence spokeswoman Alyssa Farah. Pence mainly feels compelled to publicly push back on criticism when he feels Christians or his faith are being unfairly maligned, the officials said. The vice president only seeks to counter Democrats' attacks on himself when he believes his record or views are misrepresented, they added. Pence's views on women have become something of an obsession for his critics. Pence told the Hill in 2002 that he never eats alone with a woman other than his wife, Karen, and that he won't attend events featuring alcohol without her by his side. Democrats have said this practice discriminates against women in the workplace. "The idea that you would deny a professional woman the opportunity to have a meeting with the vice president of the United States is outrageous," Harris said Thursday on MSNBC. Farah dismissed Harris' charge as a "false claim." "He's elevated women to positions of leadership throughout his career & relies on their advice & counsel," she wrote Thursday on Twitter. While aides sometimes publicly defend Pence, the vice president has largely stayed out of the fray and focused his energy on serving Trump, taking political attacks and parrying them back to focus on the administration's policies. Last week, Pence conveyed to Republican senators that voting in favor of the Democratic resolution disapproving of Trump's national emergency declaration would be viewed as voting against both the president and border security - and would likely have consequences. Some waverers, like Sens. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., and Cory Gardner, (R-Colo., who are up for reelection in 2020, ultimately voted with the administration. But 12 other Republicans joined 47 Democrats to pass the resolution, forcing the president's first veto. Earlier this month, another intraparty disagreement emerged when former vice president Richard Cheney challenged Pence directly during a March 9 closed-door retreat hosted by the American Enterprise Institute in Sea Island, Georgia, repeatedly criticizing in blunt terms the Trump administration's foreign policy record. Though the Sea Island event was presented as being off the record before accounts leaked, Pence's private comments were similar to the robust defense of the president he often offers in public. That unwavering devotion to Trump can come across as servile, even to some allies of the administration. One Republican close to the White House, who requested anonymity to speak frankly, described Pence as "Mr. Bobblehead," an allusion to his frequent pose nodding alongside Trump. The vice president's synergy with Trump has long sparked such mockery. During a FEMA briefing in June, Pence silently grabbed a water bottle from a conference table and placed it on the floor immediately after Trump, who was seated next to him, did the same. The video of the synchronized water bottle removal briefly went viral. In an interview with The Washington Post last year, Pence said he simply wanted to move the water bottle out of view from the cameras and happened to do it just as Trump was also moving his water bottle from public view. During another meeting last year in the White House Situation Room, Pence paused the proceedings when he noticed the presidential seal was still hanging on the wall, two people familiar with the moment said. He asked an aide to remove the seal out of respect for the president, who was not present. A vice presidential seal was put in its place, one White House official said, and the meeting continued. BERLIN - A movement that began with a single teenager protesting outside the Swedish parliament last summer became a global phenomenon Friday, as hundreds of thousands of students worldwide skipped school and took to the streets to demand urgent action on climate change. Starting in the South Pacific and moving west with the sun, the protests blanketed grand city centers and humble village squares, national parliament buildings and tiny town halls. The demonstrations stretched to every continent, across more than 100 countries and 1,700 locations, from India to South Africa to Greenland. The coordinated demonstrations were planned as the largest manifestation to date of the Fridays for Future movement, in which students forgo classes each week in favor of something they have said is more important: pleading for action on an issue that will affect every person on the planet, but young people most of all. "You're stealing our future!" a crowd of some 20,000 demonstrators chanted Friday outside the German government ministry in Berlin. The adults most responsible for the ravages of climate change "are going to be gone soon enough," said 14-year-old Ashton Cassa, who was on the streets of Sydney on Friday with an estimated 30,000 other Australians. "It is up to us kids to make a difference." In New York, so many young protesters gathered outside city hall, chanting and pumping their fists, that they spilled into the nearby bike lane and street. "Climate change is not a lie," they chanted. "We won't let our planet die." Camilo Budet, a 5-year-old kindergartner from Brooklyn, came with his mother. He carried a sign almost as large as he was, which read, "Stop polluting now." Peter Yarrow, of the 1960s folk trio folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary, led the group in a song. "Let the children lead," he said, as the young crowd echoed him. "That's what we need." In Montreal, a crowd of several thousand young people gathered at a park near McGill University before marching downtown. Some students drummed or blew air horns, and marchers of all ages carried homemade signs, most written in French. "The future belongs to us," said Federico Mazziotti, 25, a student at one of Quebec's state universities. In San Francisco, middle and high school students from around the Bay Area filled a downtown plaza. "Ain't no power like the power of the youth, cause the power of the youth don't stop!" they chanted in unison. "Everyone thinks that education comes first, and education is really important, but this is important, too," said Kristen Khyzoma, 16, who left during her second period class Friday. On a springlike day in Washington, groups of friends and schoolmates began assembling on the Capitol lawn about 11:30 a.m. They brought giant beach balls to bounce around the crowd and wands to blow soap bubbles. Some lounged on multicolored parachutes the organizers had set up on the grass. "There are people in that building who are leaving behind a mess for us, for our generation to clean up," 13-year-old Arkadi Vidales said, gesturing to the Capitol dome. "We need to do something about it - now." Despite their frustration, the protesters across the globe Friday delivered their dire messages in a largely peaceful way, but also with exasperation and a sense of urgency. U.N. researchers have said the world has only the next dozen years to sharply curb carbon dioxide emissions and head off the more catastrophic impacts of climate change, such as rising seas that inundate cities, crop failures that spawn famines and more severe weather-related disasters that ravage communities and cause billions of dollars in damage. But politicians remain far apart in their efforts to address global warming. President Donald Trump as vowed to withdraw the United States from an international climate accord signed in 2015. And many countries that remain are far from meeting their pledges to reduce carbon emissions. "Since our leaders are behaving like children, we will have to take the responsibility they should have taken long ago," Greta Thunberg, the Swedish teen who launched the movement, told a U.N. climate gathering in December in a speech that, with equal parts clarity and audacity, rocketed her to fame. "I don't want your hope," Thunberg told the world's elite at an economic forum in Davos a month later. "I want you to panic." The 16-year-old, who started protesting by herself in Stockholm, has inspired young people around the world to follow her example. Protests have been especially large in European capitals, but Friday's demonstrations included large gatherings in nearly every corner of the globe. "The first day I sat, I was all alone," Thunberg has said. Now, "it's amazing to talk to these people who are doing the same thing and fighting for the same cause . . . all around the world." Parents, educators and other adults also joined the throngs of student protesters Friday. In Washington, Adam Siegel came to the strike with his 14-year-old daughter, Leah. "This is a form of education," he said. "This is civil action. . . . This is citizenship." The young people behind the strikes leveraged the power of social media to plan and organize the worldwide rallies, and on Friday they enthusiastically marched on the front lines, bullhorns in hand. An estimated 150,000 people turned out in dozens of demonstrations across Australia. Somewhat smaller protests unfolded in cities across Asia. In Europe, capitals such as Berlin, Paris and London were filled with placard-wielding students who had packed into trains and subways to reach the demonstrations. Tens of thousands of people were estimated to have turned out in each of those cities. Large groups also turned out in New York, Washington and some other U.S. cities in roughly three dozen U.S. states. Some said the demonstrations have become so popular that to be in school on a Friday during a protest was the exception, not the norm."The last time, only four people were left in class, and I didn't want to be one of them," said 18-year-old Berlin resident Enrico Csonka. In Paris, the march started at the Place du Pantheon, the site of the French Republic's mausoleum for its most cherished citizens. The students climbed atop bus stations, hung onto streetlights and chanted: "One, two, three degrees. It's a crime against humanity." A large, boisterous crowd - chanting, "Solutions, not pollution" - marched through central London, weaving by landmarks such as Downing Street and Buckingham Palace. Friday marked 13-year-old Alexandria Villasenor's 14th week striking in front of the United Nations headquarters in New York. Since December, she had sat there mostly alone through rain, snow and the polar vortex. On Friday, she wasn't alone anymore. "Today, we are declaring the era of American climate change denialism over," she declared to the morning's crowd outside the United Nations. For all the urgency and fervor among the young people filling streets, real questions remain about whether their protests will spur action from policymakers. Thunberg and others have said they were inspired by students from Parkland High School who became activists after last year's deadly shooting at their school. But those efforts, along with a massive youth-led demonstration last year in favor of stronger gun laws, known as March for Our Lives, have not yet led to meaningful legislation. One of Friday's first planned demonstrations - in Christchurch, New Zealand - had to be cut short when a heavily armed gunman attacked two mosques. The massacre of at least 49 people brought together two scourges that have been the ominous background to young people's lives worldwide: mass shootings and a warming planet. Many young climate advocates in the United States have said they want to see the so-called Green New Deal - or pieces of it - embraced by lawmakers. But so far, Democrats have remained divided over the ambitious proposals, and many Republicans, including Trump, have mocked them as absurdly expensive while also questioning the scientific consensus around man-made climate change. Still, the teens have won the backing of many leading environmental groups, including Greenpeace, the Sunrise Movement and 350.org. This month, more than 250 scientists released a letter of support for the school strikes. In Europe, where the climate strikes have been filling plazas in capital cities for months, leaders such as German Chancellor Angela Merkel have endorsed the movement. But other politicians have mocked it. Christian Lindner, leader of a pro-business party in Germany, urged students to stay in school, saying that "politics is for professionals." In Washington on Friday, the young people gathered on Capitol Hill had a message for the politicians inside: Get moving. Standing toward the back of the crowd, 16-year-old Jerome Nkugwa spoke about how the impacts of climate change are expected to grow more severe over time. He nodded toward the Capitol. "Something worse is coming," Nkugwa said. "We came out to remind them to do something about it." - - - Dennis reported from Washington, Kaplan from New York and Beck in Berlin. Karla Adam in London, James McAuley in Paris, A. Odysseus Patrick in Sydney, Selena Ross in Montreal, Natalie Jones in San Francisco and Marissa Lang and Chris Mooney in Washington contributed to this report. HURON COUNTY The state of Michigan has some of the worst roads in the country. Last week, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer proposed a major gas tax hike, which would go toward fixing the state's roadways. The controversial proposal calls for funding to fix the roads through three 15-cent motor fuel tax increases from Oct. 1, 2019 through Oct. 1, 2020. The plan would generate $2.5 billion in new annual revenue, which would be deposited into a new "Fixing Michigan Roads Fund" and allocated to the state's most highly travelled and commercially important roads, at both the state and local levels. In Huron County though, the situation is not nearly as dire. "I'm not going to say that the money isn't needed a lot of roads are in poor condition," said Huron County Road Commission Chairman John Hunt of the state as a whole. "In Huron County, I can't say they're in poor condition because the voters and the residents of Huron County have taken care of a lot of their own problems, by bearing the burden of taking care of the roads through property tax." Hunt said when he first started at the road commission 31 years ago, the primary roads in the county were in disrepair. So much so, people would take township roads and stay off the primary roads because they were so bad. Eventually, the county asked the voters for help through a 2-mill road funding millage and they narrowly granted it. After taking care of the very worst primary roads, the county dropped the millage down to 1-mill five years later and have been doing their best for the county's roadways ever since. Hunt looked back on the decisions voters have made over the years as a integral component as to why Huron County roads are so highly regarded, despite many state roadways being in such bad shape. "That one mill that we have today, including the new money that was just given to us by the Legislature and ran through Act 51, it's not going to keep up," he said. "The millage is still going to need to be collected. It would probably be nice to not have to levy a millage on property to maintain a road system. I don't know if that will ever be a possibility." Regarding Whitmer's plan, the road commission is unsure at this time what it's going to mean at a local level; how much it may change as it makes its way through the legislative process; or if it will even become a reality. "Keep in mind, this whole proposal is pretty fresh out of the box," Hunt said. Added Hunt: "We need to sit down and take a good hard look at what it might do for Huron County." For Michigan, Hunt said, the current state of the roads come from over 40 years of neglect, and it will not be a quick fix. "One thing I will say for sure: I do agree more money needs to be put into the road system," Hunt said. "It's been neglected for a long time. Huron County saw that a long time ago and took care of their own problem." The state of Michigans decision to halt construction of the new psychiatric hospital in our Thumb region needs to be met with a unified response from entire area. We are calling on all individuals and organizations to reach out to Gov. Gretchen Whitmers office and let her know the state is on the wrong track in reassessing the need for this facility in the Upper Thumb. A spokeswoman from Whitmers office told the Tribune this week that the project delay is needed to ensure the new hospital is constructed in the most appropriate location, providing the greatest access to patients and staff. Currently, Michigans five psychiatric hospitals operate out of Ann Arbor, Northville, Kalamazoo, Westland and Caro. When the state announced it would be building a new hospital to replace the one in Caro, studies found the need for a psychiatric hospital in Caro, as well as the economic impact that would result from not constructing the new hospital in Caro. It found the center brings an estimated $54 million in revenue to Tuscola County. It is the countys second largest employer, with 349 employees and another 398 jobs that indirectly benefit from it. Of the centers employees, roughly 70 percent live within 30 miles of the center. There were other benefits to keeping the facility in Caro, including the fact that the land is available and not every community welcomes a psychiatric hospital. The need is there, as the study found it had about 150 patients, and waiting list of about 200. A majority of those patients arent from Tuscola County, however. About 80 percent of the people housed in the center were from the south and east of Caro. This is something the state cited this week as a reason to reassess the decision to build the center in Caro. Why build a center where the majority of patients dont live? To that, we say rural areas like the Thumb need access. True we dont have the population of metro areas, but we feel its important to have this type of facility in our region for the people who live and work here in the Thumb. We have a proven track record of providing these services from Caro, and our economy relies on this center. Whats the point of moving the center to another area to facilitate 100 or so patients when it will result in an economic crisis for our region and where will the staff come from elsewhere? Is there are region in Michigan with 400 available and experienced state psychiatric hospital staffers? If thats the case, then maybe the state should look into building a sixth psychiatric hospital to combat the states mental health crisis. Simply moving an existing hospital to a more populated area and ruining this local economy isnt going to help address the need for additional psychiatric services in Michigan. The state this week also claimed there is a staff shortage at the Caro Center, and there is not a full-time psychiatrist at the facility. However, those who studied the center in 2017 and 2018, claim otherwise. In fact, the state lawmaker who represented this area believes this new state administration is second-guessing the prior Legislatures decision. We are very concerned that this is the case or worse, this is a chance for Whitmers administration to benefit a more populated area that votes Democratic, verses the Thumb, which historically leans to the right. We do recognize the states concerns regarding the issue of water access to the center, as Caro and Indiansfield Township had issues over who would pay to extend a water line to the center. But thats now a non-issue, as the county stepped in to pay for an engineering study that found a viable solution of using wells that are onsite to service the center. And if theres a need to have a municipal water line extended to the center, then the county needs to ensure it happens. Squabbles between the city and the township cant continue. Ground was broken last fall for the centers construction in Caro. Designs have been made and bids awarded. Now these contractors are without work, and the entire county has been left with uncertainty. If the governors office truly is concerned with spending every tax dollar wisely, it should proceed with this project, as $3 million already has been spent for this project. The idea that this is some small inconsequential amount that can be spent elsewhere to draw up designs and do all the other site work needed to construct a psychiatric hospital is financially unsound. The areas state and U.S. lawmakers are all calling this financially irresponsible and a bad decision and we agree. Thats why we are calling on all readers in the Upper Thumb to reach out to the governors office and implore Gov. Whitmer to proceed with construction of this hospital in Caro. Write the governor: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, MI, 48909, or call her office at 517-335-7858 or 517-373-3400. Tell the state to not turn its back on our rural area simply because we lack the population of areas that already are served by one of the states other four psychiatric hospitals. Saturday Henninger, Fredric R. Freddie. Memorial services 1 p.m. Saturday at Worthington Funeral Home. Visitation 11 a.m. Saturday until the time of services at the funeral home. Lovelace, Howard B. 11 a.m. Saturday at Coonrod Funeral Home in Winchester. Burial with military honors at Pine Tree Cemetery in Patterson. Friends may call from 9 a.m. Saturday until the time of the service at the funeral home. Retzer, Gene. A memorial service 11 a.m. Saturday at Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville. The family will meet friends 10-11 a.m. Saturday, prior to the service, at the funeral home. Stice, Kevin C. 11 a.m. Saturday at Airsman-Hires Funeral Home in White Hall. Visitation 9 a.m. Saturday until the service time at the funeral home. Taylor, Thomas R. Tom. 11 a.m. Saturday at Daws Family Funeral Home in Jacksonville. Visitation 10 a.m. Saturday until the time of services at the funeral home. The family invites everyone to celebrate Toms life and share stories immediately follow the funeral in the Daws banquet room, where lunch will be provided. Sunday Farrar, John Nick. Visitation 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday at Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville. Monday Bauser, Albert Al. Graveside services 10 a.m. Monday at Beardstown City Cemetery. Informal visitation 2-4 p.m. Sunday at Sager Funeral Home in Beardstown. Browning, Ronald L. 3 p.m. Monday at Airsman-Hires Funeral Chapel in Griggsville. Visitation 2 p.m. Monday until the time of the service at the funeral chapel. Malin-Tolley, Opal J. 11 a.m. Monday at Airsman-Hires Funeral Home in White Hall. Visitation 9 a.m. Monday until the time of services at the funeral home. Mossman, Doris M. Funeral Mass 10 a.m. Monday at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Jerseyville. Visitation 3-7 p.m. Sunday at Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville. Ruble, Frank Charles. Graveside service 11 a.m. Monday at Pittsfield West Cemetery. Niebur Funeral Home is in charge. Tuesday English, Mary Ellen. Memorial Mass 10 a.m. Tuesday at Church of Our Saviour. A prayer service 3:45 p.m. Monday at Williamson Funeral Home, after which the family will meet friends from 4 to 7 p.m. Hendrickson, James Wesley. 10 a.m. Tuesday at Calvary Baptist Church in White Hall. Visitation 4-7 p.m. Monday at the church. Airsman-Hires Funeral Home in White Hall is in charge. Taylor, Sonja K.. Graveside services 2 p.m. Tuesday at Fairview Cemetery near Bath. Hurley Funeral Home in Havana is in charge. Sunday, March 24 Robertson, Reginald J. Reggie. A Celebration of Life 1-4 p.m. Sunday, March 24, 2019, at Beardstown Elks Lodge #1007. Sager Funeral Home in Beardstown is in charge. Saturday, March 30 Lowe, Frank. Graveside memorial services 2 p.m. Saturday, March 30, at Beardstown City Cemetery. A celebration of life at The Sazarac in Beardstown will follow the graveside services. Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown is in charge. ST. GEORGE, S.C. - Before Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif., stepped out of her white minivan, no presidential candidate had ever visited St. George, at least as far as any local officials could remember. But the shadow of the ever-growing Democratic field fell on Harris even here, when a young voter named Essence Williams asked her about fellow Democratic candidate Andrew Yang's proposal to give $1,000 of basic income to every American ages 18 to 64. "Do you think this program is feasible in our economic climate?" Williams asked. "And is it possible to increase the standard of living for low-income families?" "I haven't analyzed that policy," Harris said, pivoting instead to discussions of how she hopes to reduce student loan debt and "uplift" young people. After Harris finished, Williams said she "absolutely" still had questions about where Harris stood, even as she was grateful for the senator's candor. "It's all about trust," she said. "I'd rather she be honest with me [like that] and tell me she hasn't looked into it." In the first weeks of Harris' campaign, the 54-year-old has fielded criticism for equivocal and imprecise answers to questions about her stances on specific policies and her record as a prosecutor. The language contrasts with the message Harris hammers to receptive crowds at every stop: defining herself as the candidate speaking truth and confronting the uncomfortable conversations the country needs to have. But there is little indication that the approach has cut into her popularity, and she is not shying away from further controversy. In an interview with MSNBC on Thursday, Harris said it was "outrageous" that Vice President Mike Pence will not have one-on-one meetings with women - a critique that exaggerated a long-ago Pence comment that he does not dine one-on-one with a woman other than his wife. "I think that's ridiculous," Harris said. "The idea that you would deny a professional woman the opportunity to have a meeting with the vice president of the United States is outrageous." Pence's press secretary, Alyssa Farah, responded to Harris's comments with a tweet in which she asked the senator why she was repeating a false claim. "He's elevated women to positions of leadership throughout his career & relies on their advice & counsel," Farah wrote. "Get your facts straight." Seema Verma, an administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, chimed in, too, calling Harris' assertions "blatantly false." An earlier example came in an on-camera interview with CNN's John King in late February, when the anchor asked Harris: Why did voters who twice chose Barack Obama flip to President Trump? "I'll leave that to the pundits, but I'll tell you that - " Harris said before King interrupted. "If I'm a Democratic voter and I want Trump gone," King said, "I want a better answer than that." Yet Harris so far has consistently drawn bigger crowds than most of the other candidates, except Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt. Her campaign reported raising $1.5 million from 38,000 individual donors in its first 24 hours, trailing only Sanders ($5.9 million in the first 24 hours) among candidates who made their fundraising numbers public. Perhaps most tellingly, Trump's political advisers see Harris as an especially potent threat, although they acknowledge that the nomination fight is in the early stages and the field is fluid. They think Harris has star power and has demonstrated an ability to draw and excite crowds - factors that Trump thinks helped propel him into the presidency. Ironically, perhaps the most damaging public stumble Harris has suffered since her announcement occurred when she was blunt and definitive - about the question of whether private health insurance would disappear under the Medicare-for-all plan she supports. At a CNN Town Hall in January, she said she favored "doing away with" private health insurance. The Medicare-for-all bill she has endorsed calls for four years of transition to a single-payer system with an eventual, not immediate, disposal of all private insurance. A campaign representative later said Harris could support a system that preserved private health insurance, and has co-sponsored bills that would create a public health insurance option to compete with private options, not replace them. Her answer forced other Democratic candidates to clarify their positions on private insurance as they advocate for a stronger public insurance option. None had previously gone quite so far in their endorsement of the plan. Harris's Medicare-for-all stance is lingering in voter minds - in large part, say many, including 25-year-old South Carolinian Steven Wright, because "for me, it seems almost disrespectful, like 'I know what's best for you.' " "I love my plan. I love being able to pay for my plan," said Wright, who attended the St. George event. "I think giving government full control over the health-care system is very dangerous." On other issues, voters wave away Harris' occasional stumbles. After she described an alleged attack on actor Jussie Smollett as a "modern-day lynching" - Smollett has since pleaded not guilty to charges of lying to police - the statement drew hours of cable news coverage and D.C. discussion. Not a single voter asked about it as she campaigned. Voters consistently show more concern about the policies Harris promoted in her roles as San Francisco district attorney and California attorney general. A Las Vegas voter asked her about the policy she instituted in San Francisco that threatened parents of habitually truant students with incarceration - the result of a study Harris conducted that showed the harm missing school at the elementary level can have on a student's ability to complete high school. She explained that she never incarcerated parents under the policy. "I didn't feel like the question was fully answered. But I do understand it wasn't something she is currently proposing," said 17-year-old Clare Oldham, a Las Vegas college student who asked the question."I do feel like when you're looking at presidential candidates, you do need it to be someone who you know [what] their past proposals and past legislation has been." During a live recording last month in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, a host of the podcast Political Party Live asked Harris about another policy she supported as district attorney. The policy empowered city law enforcement to report undocumented juveniles to federal immigration officials even if they had not been convicted of a crime. That marked a departure from the city's previous policy that allowed for reporting of undocumented adults who had been arrested for crimes but not convicted. "[Reporting juveniles] ended up being an unintended consequence of the policy and I did not support that consequence of that policy," Harris said. "And that policy I believe has since changed because it was not the intended purpose of that policy." That answer misrepresented the policy, which was enacted specifically to bring undocumented juveniles with criminal records to the attention of immigration enforcement - a response, in part, to a 2008 triple homicide committed by an undocumented immigrant who had been arrested for violent crimes as a teenager but not reported to immigration authorities. Undocumented youths who had not been convicted of crimes did get deported because of the policy. Charlamagne tha God, host of the "Breakfast Club" syndicated radio show on which Harris spoke recently, said he has no doubt that Harris's record as a prosecutor is "affecting her in a negative way" with African American voters. "I personally just want everyone to examine [her] record as a prosecutor, question her record as a prosecutor, point out what you don't like about her record as a prosecutor, but understand she was a prosecutor. That's her job," he said. But, he said, voters also will have to consider programs Harris enacted to help former prisoners get the training and resources they needed. "I think we have to look at it all in its totality," he said. Presidential candidates typically adjust their positions and craft more specifics as time goes on, honing them in particular when debates force comparisons between the competitors. For now, three months before the start of the first primary debates, Harris' appeal seems to far outweigh any concerns among voters who attend her events. In Iowa, South Carolina, and Nevada, attendees desperate for selfies or hugs or to introduce their children to Harris gather around her, draw the attention of television crews and delay her departures. Even without a firm answer to her questions, Williams spent the moments after Harris' St. George event elbowing through a crowd, backpedaling to position herself between the senator and the door, and asking the candidate's communications staff if she had time for just one more. Like so many who come to hear Harris these days, Williams simply had to have a picture. - - - The Washington Post's Philip Rucker contributed to this report. Latin American cities dominate the list of the most violent municipalities in the world, but a few U.S. cities remain neck-and-neck with those that regularly deal with gang wars and cartel violence, according to an annual study by Mexico's Citizens' Council for Public Security and Criminal Justice. St. Louis, Missouri, and Baltimore, Maryland, were the only two U.S. cities in the top 25. Only two other U.S. cities Detroit, Michigan (No. 46), and New Orleans, Louisiana (No. 50) made the top 50 list. The Citizens' Council tracked homicide totals and rates per 100,000 people in cities with more than 300,000 residents. The purpose of the study is partly to apply pressure to leaders in those urban areas, according to a summary on the group's website. Despite the political objective, the group said it didn't twist the data to produce a desired outcome. "Our interest is just to know the truth," according to a translation of their methodology. The list also isn't immune to error, according to the methodology. Some municipalities don't provide accurate homicide statistics. It those cases, the researchers used conservative estimates to arrive at annual figures. Most of the cities on the list have been ravaged by cartel violence or gang wars or both, including the Mexican cities of Juarez (No. 5) and Acapulco (No. 2). A March 2017 report from The Journal Times indicated that Mexico's murder total had been rising from 2014 to the first months of 2017. Another article from Time said Mexico was on track to surpass the grim 2017 homicide numbers (26,168) in 2018. Brazil and Venezuela also accounted for large portion of the most violent cities. The list did not include cities that suffer open war conflicts, such as Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan. >>> Chron.com compiled a slideshow of the top 25 most violent cities on the list. To view the full list, visit the council's website. 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 | NEWS WHEN YOU NEED IT: Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message | Sign up for breaking news alerts delivered to your email here. We all have a vested interest in the expansion of higher education programs in the Lone Star State even when it is taking place in remote regions many of us dont frequent. After all, we live in one state and were all Texans. But as Texas Tech System Chancellor Tedd Mitchell views it, his university systems plan for a new veterinary school, dental school and expansion of other programs should be of great importance to those of us who dont reside in West Texas. He is working hard to spread that message. He is quick to point out that although 87 percent of the almost 29 million people in Texas live east of Interstate 35, the other 13 percent, in West Texas, supply the bulk of the states meat, cotton and fuel. The Panhandle is the countrys top producer of beef, the eight counties around the South Plains and Lubbock are the nations top producers of cotton, and the Permian Basin is the nations top producer of gas, he said during a recent visit with the Express-News Editorial Board on his way to Austin to make a budget pitch before the 86th Legislature. Mitchell, who was head of the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center before assuming the added role of chancellor last fall, admits he never gave Lubbock or West Texas much thought growing up in Longview. He suspects its the same with most Texas residents and wants to change that by carrying his university systems message to a broader audience. This legislative session, the Texas Tech System is seeking $17.32 million for a veterinary school in Amarillo and $20 million for a dental school in El Paso. Both are scheduled to enroll their inaugural classes in fall 2021. It will be the states second veterinary school and its fourth dental school. The path to the veterinary school has not been easy. For decades, the creation of an additional veterinary school has met stiff resistance, despite the fact that admission to the existing one is highly competitive due to the limited number of slots each year. The communities in which the two professional schools in West Texas are being located have been highly supportive and made substantial financial support to moving the projects along. The Amarillo community has pledged about $90 million for the veterinary school, and the El Paso community has given $31 million for the dental school. Mitchell said the schools will not provide a duplication of services. The opening of a second veterinary school will help meet the need for more veterinarians who specialize in treating large animals, he said. He is optimistic that graduating more dentists away from an urban setting will help meet the needs in some of the medical-service deserts in rural areas of the state. The Texas Tech System is also seeking funding from the Legislature for a mental health program at the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center and student enhancement programs at Angelo State University. Mitchell makes a sound argument for legislative support of his systems plans for expansion: Its about expanding higher education opportunities to more students. As a state, we cannot afford to cast higher education funding requests as rural areas vs. urban areas or as pitting one university system against another. Texas cannot afford to continue losing its brightest students to other states because of the limited pool of applicants it can admit to its professional schools each year. Students like to settle close to where they earn their degrees. We need to provide them more opportunities to remain lifelong Texans. And West Texas in particular needs such professionals because of the vast spaces there, which means drives that take hours to get medical attention. The rest of the state should support fixing that. The beginning of the school year when you got to show off your new duds, new cars, new looks! Sports! Playing, cheering, watching high school athletics. The arts: Dramatic arts, musical groups and shows, graphic arts groups, debate, etc. The prom! No dancing the night away or punch bowl antics. The daily interactions. Just being with the group, hanging with friends and classmates. Access to college recruiters and advisors its harder to line up higher education. Walking onstage to get a diploma while all the family is watching with everyone elses family. Vote View Results The stage is set and the countdown is on, for the annual St Patricks day parade in Ballyleague/Lanesboro. As is the norm, this years St Patricks day festivities will commence early that morning, with a traditional mass kicking off at 11.30am. This will be supported by the offerings of many local talents, with the parish choir, champion dancers and traditional Irish musicians, all taking part. We always start with the traditional mass at 11.30, organiser Teresa Costello told the Longford Leader. That involves the local parish choir, plus champion dancers and some Irish musicians, so it is a big occasion. Following on from the maiden activity of the day is the event locals will all be waiting for, the official commencement of the St Paddys day parade. All floats are due to depart from the local St Faithleachs GAA clubhouse and the convoy is expected to arrive into town shortly after 2.30pm. Also read: Pat Lynch returns as Grand Marshal at Longford town St Patrick's Day parade Teresa Costello: The parade will leave from St Faithleachs GAA clubhouse at 2.30 sharp. She promised that this year's parade will be as colourful as ever and will feature a familiar face in the shape of the MC. It is usually a fairly colourful. It will arrive into town shortly after 2.30pm, with the MC as usual on-stage, TD Eugene Murphy. This years event, although expected to be as impactful as ever, will have a more simple feel than previous years, with the only celebrity guests in the shape of some of our beloved childrens characters. Also read: Road closures and traffic management for Longford St Patrick's Day parade Making guest appearances on the day in memory of St Patrick are Ben and Holly, a Giant and some Minions. It is really a very simple day, Teresa noted. This year, there is a top prize of 250 plus a trophy for the overall prize winner, with the winners of each of the other categories receiving 50 plus a trophy. The other float categories include most original float, best dressed window, best junior, best club, best business and the best vintage. Also read: Over 40 floats expected in Ballymahon for St Patrick's Day parade There is no theme to this years parade, with organisers opting for the simplistic approach to allow for greater creativity. The presentation ceremony will take place later that evening, at Adie's bar. Teresa told the Leader: Afterwards we have the presentation ceremony at Adies Bar and Restaurant and the results of the parade given out then as well. We are keeping it simple enough. There is no theme this year, so that means the variety can be much larger. she added. For anyone looking to enter a float into this years parade, the closing date is set at Wednesday, March 13. All entries must be given to Freda Connaughton, who is the secretary of the parade, or Teresa herself. They can also be handed into OBriens corner shop in Lanesboro. Teresa said: Anybody who has not entered, will not be judged. So, they need to push to get their entries in as soon as possible. They can give all entries to Freda Connaughton, who is the secretary, or they can leave it into OBriens corner shop or send it to myself. she urged. The raffle will also take place again this year, with prizes worth 500 in total up for grabs. Teresa Costello: The raffle goes ahead this year as well. Teresa commended the local community for not only continuously supporting the event, but also for helping organise it and for helping source sponsorship. She then urged the locality to continue with their great record of support. She said: It is kind of a simple day, but a colourful and nice day. Its a fun day out for all of the family. I would like to ask the public to continue with their support, as they always do. I would also like to thank the stewards and all of the people who have sponsored us. The community is great at sponsoring us, its brilliant, Teresa concluded. Everyones looking forward to an enjoyable day. Food, Wine, & Dining, Hot Spots & Night Life By Meg Parisi Published: March 16 2019 Weve rounded up five must-try spots in Babylon serving up killer brunch menus, check them out The Brixton: 111 Deer Park Ave Did someone say bottomless mimosas? Every Sunday the Brixtons brunch offers endless mimosas ($18/2 hour limit) with any brunch item. With menu staples like their eggs benny of the day (served with sweet potato hash) to unique dishes like their duck scotch egg (soft boiled egg, duck sausage, grain mustard over arugula) you cant can wrong with their impressive selection. Other favorites are their breakfast poutine and banana bacon pancakes. Make sure to call ahead for reservations. Del Fuego: 117 Deer Park Ave When brunch cravings call for Tex-Mex, head to Del Fuego. A special taco brunch ($16) is offered every Sunday with a complimentary Bloody Mary, mimosa or Michelada Del Fuego. Diners can choose from any three tacos all served in a flour tortilla with a side of fresh fruit. We recommend trying their signature chorizo taco (scrambled eggs, spicy sausage, pickled red onion, pico de Gallo and guacamole) or their BLT taco (scrambled eggs, crispy smoked bacon, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes and crema). And for sipping? Cheers to the weekend with their Senor Palmer (pineapple infused tequila, house made lemonade and fresh brewed iced tea). The Argyle Grill & Tavern: 90 Deer Park Ave Argyle Grills ala carte Sunday brunch is offered from 12-4 p.m. with $5 sangria, mimosas and Bloody Marys. The a la carte menu has tons of breakfast favorites including fresh made omelets, tasty wraps, crispy home fries and breakfast sausage. Argyles casual setting is perfect for meeting with friends or bringing the whole family. Glens Dinette: 23 E Main St When it comes to brunch classics, Glens Dinette is cooking up all of the favorites. Served all day, 7-days a week, diners cant go wrong with their famous hash and eggs, banana pecan French toast or huveos rancheros. The space is warm, inviting and transports visitors back to the 1950s with retro burgundy booths and eclectic decor. Tres Palms: 16 East Ct Tres Palms serves up Fire Side on the Bay Brunch every Sunday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. With fresh made egg dishes like their signature Lobster Omelet (fresh Maine lobster, bacon, jack and cheddar cheese, roasted potatoes) to their breakfast burrito (scrambled eggs, bacon, jack and cheddar cheese, pico de Gallo, sour cream and potatoes). And for those who prefer something on the sweeter side, we recommend going for their pancake stack, your pick of fresh blueberries or chocolate chips. All brunch dishes are served with your choice of a complimentary mimosa or Bloody Mary. The challenge of how to improve understanding of intellectual property was discussed by Manny Schecter, chief patent counsel at IBM, at the Second Annual Intellectual Property Awareness Summit in New York on November 29. Increasing awareness is one thing; increasing understanding something else entirely, Schecter said. He believes the general level of awareness is higher than before. "In my mind we have a kind of conundrum," he said. "I think awareness about IP is in many ways increasing but I don't think real literacy and real understanding is on the same trajectory. It might be increasing but it isn't keeping up, that's for sure. That confusion, that lack of understanding, isn't the sole cause but it enables the lack of respect for intellectual property." Importantly, however, Schecter noted: "I don't think awareness and understanding are the same thing. We can be aware that there is such a thing as patents, trade marks and copyrights and have a sense of what they do but not really understand them, and not be literate in them. A lot of the public are aware but not really literate." This lack of understanding is a result of a variety of reasons. "Intellectual property is hard," said Schecter. "It is not an intuitive subject to many people. Every one of us has seen articles where the types of intellectual property are used confusingly where patents, trade marks and copyrights are used interchangeably, incorrectly so, because it is obvious the author didn't really understand fully what he or she was writing about." On the patent side, people often get confused about various aspects of patents, such as the difference between filing and grant date. "All understandable," noted Schecter. Those who are intimately familiar with IP do not necessarily help the situation: a second area of confusion, according to Schecter, comes from the public debate around IP. "We argue vigorously for positions in the intellectual property world, and we have a tendency to use a lot of rhetoric and take a lot of extreme positions in trying to make our point," said Schecter. "Sometimes we actually want that extreme position and sometimes we are just trying to get our point across." Schecter urged the audience to close the gap between awareness and understanding by increasing the level of understanding. "We have to figure out how to optimise the benefit of intellectual property," he said. Schecter believes that people who say that intellectual property is somehow hurting innovation are really saying is it is not achieving its optimum promotion of innovation. "If we are actually going to get people understanding intellectual property we have to overcome confusion, we have to overcome misinformation, we have to overcome our own rhetoric and we have to overcome pressure from our clients. Just speak honestly and respectfully. Our innovation economy, our national security, frankly our everyday creature comforts may depend on it," he said. "Those of us that really understand IP should feel an obligation to teach the others that need to know about IP but don't, to help them learn. If we want our competition to respect our IP, we need to respect theirs. And for other countries to respect US IP, they should see us in the United States behaving the same way towards each other. That sounds like something a parent would tell a child but I mean it sincerely." Michael Loney Managing editor The material on this site is for law firms, companies and other IP specialists. It is for information only. Please read our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Notice before using the site. All material subject to strictly enforced copyright laws. 2021 Euromoney Institutional Investor PLC. For help please see our FAQs. Share this article There is a certain trend of opinion amongst the liberal left, particularly in the US, which never felt very comfortable with the Bolivarian revolution. Now, in the midst of a serious and well-organised attempt by Washington to remove Maduros government, they insist on equally blaming both sides for the crisis, one which in their view can be resolved through negotiations between the government and the opposition. A chief representative of this point of view is Gabriel Hetland, who has written several articles on Venezuela for The Nation, Jacobin and other left-wing publications. His latest article, Venezuelas Deadly Blackout Highlights the Need for a Negotiated Resolution of the Crisis, sums up this argument neatly, so it is useful to analyse it in some detail. The article is full of inaccuracies and half-truths, but its main flaw is a mistaken analysis of the situation in Venezuela, one that avoids a class approach to the different forces involved, from which Hetland derives a completely utopian solution. The devils in the details Lets start with some of the factual inaccuracies. The caption of the picture illustrating the articles reads: People collect water from a leaking pipeline along the Guaire River, the same line is then used within the article for effect. It is false. During the blackout there was lack of water supply as a result. People resorted to collecting water from springs coming down the Avila mountain. Some of these springs are canalised and then end up in the Guaire River. People were collecting water from two such springs on the side of the Guaire, not from a leaking pipe. Water pipes were actually not carrying water. This might seem like a small detail but it has a certain importance. The headlines in many of the newspapers claimed people were collecting water from the Guaire river itself, which is extremely polluted (El Nuevo Herald in Miami said: Desperate Venezuelans collect rotten water in the midst of blackout). The mass media exaggerates and sometimes publishes straight lies in order to fit into a narrative of harrowing crisis in Venezuela in order to justify the need for foreign intervention or in any case regime change. Hetland is not new to this business and should know he needs to check all the details he uses in his story. Another one. In the opening paragraph of his article, Hetland seeks to draw attention to how bad and long-lasting the blackout was. He does mention how power was intermittently restored on Sunday and Monday in parts of Caracas and elsewhere, but then ends the paragraph with a mention of the New York Times headline: ... with The New York Times on Monday publishing an article titled No End in Sight to Venezuelas Blackout, Experts Warn.. Whats the conclusion he wants the reader to draw? That the blackout is far from over, in fact we dont know when power will be restored at all. There is just a small detail: it does not coincide with the facts. By midnight, 11 March, power had been restored in Merida, Zulia and Tachira, the last remaining states affected by the blackout. Hetlands article carries the date of 13 March, when the blackout was already over and there were only a few smaller towns left affected. In paragraph two, Hetland states the most alarming aspect of the blackout is the lack of power in hospitals. Of course, the lack of power in hospitals is alarming and very dangerous. However, all hospitals in the country have their own independent power generators that activate in the event of an emergency. A report by the opposition-aligned NGO, Medicos por la Salud published on 11 March in the evening a list of all 32 of the countrys hospitals, with a detailed explanation of their situation. In all of them, their own power plants were working with the exception of one where it was working intermittently. Heltand then adds: To be blunt: People are dying, and more will die the longer the blackout continues. To back up his assertion he links to a Reuters report, which quotes from Medicos por la Salud, saying that 17 people have died as a result of problems with electricity supply. When you then look at the NGOs own report the picture is less clear. In the report about the state of hospitals, which I quoted above, of the 32 hospitals listed, all bar two are marked as no deceased, and the other two account for a total of three people dead. In a separate report by the same NGO about the number of people who died during the blackout, 24 are listed but no details are given as to the causes of death. So these could be people who would have died regardless of the blackout. Again, this might seem a small detail, but details are important, because they are what build a story. A story can be constructed in two ways. One would say: Hospitals dealt with the blackout by using their own emergency generators, which greatly minimised the dangerous impact of lack of electricity. The other says: the most alarming aspect of the blackout is the lack of power in hospitals To be blunt: People are dying, and more will die. You are more likely to write the second if you rely largely or solely on material from Reuters and other such agencies, and you are also more likely to stray from the truth. What caused the blackout? Of course, Heltands article is built around the blackout and so an explanation of the causes for it should be given. What does he tell us about it? He starts by saying there are two competing narratives, (a word I particularly hate), but neither he goes on, does justice to Venezuelas reality. In Heltands opinion: The blackout and the broader crisis are not entirely the fault of Maduro, nor of the United States and the domestic opposition. The urgency of the situation demands recognition of shared responsibility for the crisis. Heltands article is built around the blackout and so an explanation of the causes for it should be given. But he doesn't provide one / Image: TeleSUR But then Hetland states that only the most myopic analysis could ignore the governments clear responsibility for the perilous state of Venezuelas electric grid, and goes on to give as an example: the scandal of the Tacoma Hydro Plant, a project that was never finished as a result of corruption. (Even here, he gets some facts wrong, by using a report that is now outdated). However, the question is, how does a non-functioning power plant relate to the current blackout? Everyone, government and opposition, agrees that something went wrong inside the control centre for the El Guri Hydro complex. The dispute is about what caused the fault. The opposition says it was a wildfire under the main high power line out of El Guri, while the government claims it was a cyber attack affecting the SCADA system that regulates the plant, which produces 80 percent of Venezuelas power. What is Heltands opinion about this? He does not say. Though he, of course, mentions the possibility of a cyberattack (quoting an article from Forbes), he does not go into any of the details and his conclusion is clear: Available evidence suggests that the blackout was not caused by sabotage, but by the electric grid being pushed to the brink by years of increased use and a lack of investment and maintenance. Available evidence? Perhaps Heltand knows more than everyone else, because so far, neither the government nor the opposition have provided much, if any, evidence to back up their stories. Their arguments are mostly based on circumstantial evidence. The opposition has not provided any evidence of the mysterious wildfire that they say affected the 765KV power line and then caused the El Guri system to shut down, which should be relatively simple if such a fire had occurred. Furthermore, Guaido rejected the idea of a cyber attack, as he alleged that the El Guri Hydro complex was controlled analogically, something that is a straight lie. All of these things are being widely discussed in Venezuela, with claims and counter-claims being made. Heltand ignores all of this and simply claims that available evidence suggests that the blackout was not caused by sabotage, without even mentioning what is this available evidence he bases himself upon, or providing any useful links as a reference. In fact, he has already decided on an explanation that fits his narrative and has written a story that ignores the available evidence. Just to cover himself, after having declared what the cause of the blackout is he adds: getting to the bottom of the blackout is important; journalists based in Venezuela should investigate the possible causes. Yes, Mr Hetland, getting to the bottom of the blackout is important, jumping to conclusions based on preconceived ideas does not help. Journalists based in Venezuela have already done a very good job of attempting to establish what actually happened, and this article in 15 y Ultimo is perhaps one of the best efforts. It was published on 11 March, two days before Hetlands article was published in The Nation. The path of negotiation However, the main problem with Heltands article lies in the conclusions he draws: Calls for military intervention must be rejected. One must recognize, however, the untenability of the status quo. The combination of Maduros repressive and inept rule and debilitating US sanctions has brought Venezuela to the edge of catastrophe. The longer the situation continues, the worse things will get. Yes, on one thing we can certainly agree. The situation in Venezuela is bad and has significantly worsened over the last four or five years. But what is the plausible path for resolving Venezuelas crisis that he proposes? First of all, he accepts the premise that a peaceful transition needs to take place and this must be through free and fair elections. Here we see how our liberal critic in fact accepts all of the premises of regime change on which US imperialism bases its current assault on Venezuela. Washington too says it is for a peaceful transition and above all for free elections. In fact, this is precisely what, nominally, they are trying to achieve with their policy of diplomatic pressure, sanctions and the threat of military intervention. Hetland therefore assumes, without explaining why, that the presidential elections in 2018 were not free and fair and that therefore Maduro is an illegitimate president, otherwise, why should there be new elections when he was just sworn-in in January? Our liberal friend finds himself firmly in the camp of the Venezuelan opposition and US imperialism. His disagreement with imperialism seems to be just tactical, he does not think that this outcome can or should be achieved through sanctions or military action. He seems to will the ends but not the means. How does he think this can be achieved then? The only real hope for Venezuelas future is the path of negotiations between the government and the opposition. This is completely utopian and ignores Venezuelas recent past. In fact, over the years, there have been many negotiations between the government and the opposition. The current attempt by imperialism is not the first. Already, in April 2002, the opposition carried out a US-backed coup, barely three years into the Chavez government. When President Chavez was returned to power by a mass movement of the poor, what did he do? He called on the opposition to the negotiating table. How did they respond? By immediately starting to prepare for another coup, this time in the form of the sabotage of the oil industry and a bosses lockout, which lasted from December 2002 until February 2003 and nearly crippled the economy. The opposition does not want negotiations, they want to crush the Bolivarian Revolution by any means necessary. If they think they can achieve this via negotiations, they will not object, as long as their objectives are guaranteed. Hetland says: "The only real hope for Venezuelas future is the path of negotiations between the government and the opposition. This is completely utopian / Image: Flickr, The White House The most recent attempt at negotiations was the 2016-17 talks in the Dominican Republic, brokered amongst others by the former social-democratic president of Spain Zapatero. The main demand of the opposition in those talks was precisely free and fair early presidential elections. When it seemed that an agreeable compromise had been reached and even a date for the elections had been fixed, then the opposition, under pressure from Bogota and Washington, decided to walk out of the talks. Zapatero was fuming and he advised the government to go ahead with the elections on the agreed date. The election, in which a section of the opposition (led by Henri Falcon) participated, did take place, Maduro won and Zapatero, who acted as an observer, vouched for the process. But, all of this appears to be a closed book to Hetland. And who is the government supposed to negotiate with? Throughout his article and in other writings, Hetland insists on establishing a difference between radical sectors of the opposition or sectors of the far-right opposition and the opposition as a whole. In practice, on the ground, such a difference does not exist. The current coup attempt led in Venezuela by Guaido is backed by all the opposition parties represented in the National Assembly. The 2016 violent riots, which Hetland mentions in his article, were also part of a joint and united campaign by the opposition as a whole. The bulk of the opposition, under pressure from Washington, boycotted the presidential election and expelled Henri Falcon from the MUD (Democratic Unity Roundtable) for taking part in it. In any case, how are these negotiations going to happen? The government has said repeatedly that it is prepared to negotiate (even with Trump), but the opposition has rejected any advances. Hetland suggests that perhaps the EUs International Contact Group could make this happen. This is either naive or seriously dangerous. The main EU countries are completely subordinate to Washingtons strategy on Venezuela. It was Spanish president Sanchez who issued an eight-day ultimatum to Maduro to call presidential elections. He was then joined by France, the UK, Germany and the majority of EU members, who went on to recognise Guaido as the legitimate president of Venezuela. The ICG was only created in order to destroy Mexicos independent initiative to find a negotiated solution. When the ICG representatives arrived in Montevideo, the Uruguayan government, under pressure, abandoned its independent position and left Mexico on its own. You cannot have half a revolution To add to Hetlands mythical unicorn of a democratic opposition he then adds that, once the US is removed from the equation (how? By whom?) then we can hope (hope springs eternal in the liberal breasts) for a growth of a much broader opposition movement, one in which the voices of the popular classes could have much more weight. This is perhaps the crux of the matter. The main problem in Hetlands approach is the lack of any discussion of the class nature of this conflict. The Venezuelan opposition, and behind it Washington, represents the interests of the countrys oligarchy: the rich and wealthy families that have ruled Venezuela for over a 100 years and playing a subordinate role to US imperialism. Their mass base of support is mainly drawn from the middle-class and upper-middle-class areas in the east of Caracas and other major cities. Chavismo has its roots amongst the working class, the poor peasants and the urban poor. The opposition supporters have an irrational hatred, a primal fear, of the chavista masses. During the violent opposition rioting in 2016, a young man, Orlando Figuera, was burnt alive and died as a result. His crime? Being dark-skinned and therefore looking both poor and like a chavista. Certainly, in this opposition, the voices of the popular classes have no weight. For good reason, most of the Venezuelan poor and the working class have a healthy class instinct, and they reject an opposition that they correctly see as representing Los Amos del Valle, the age-old oligarchy, abiding by the interests of imperialism. The Maduro government's policy of attempting to compromise with and make concessions to the ruling class has eroded popular support for the Bolivarian Revolution / Image: public domain The Maduro government has had a policy of attempting to compromise with and make concessions to the ruling class. This has eroded popular support for the Bolivarian Revolution. What progressives need to discuss is the root cause of the crisis in Venezuela, and on that basis, discuss a solution that benefits the countrys working people. The frightful economic crisis from which Venezuela is suffering was triggered in 2014 by the collapse in the price of oil, and has been aggravated by some of the governments policy decisions (deficit financing, paying the foreign debt), widespread corruption and US sanctions. But its root cause are the well-meaning attempts of the Bolivarian government to regulate the capitalist economy (through price and foreign exchange controls, and robust labour and trade union legislation) in order to protect the interests of the many. This does not work. Capitalism cannot be regulated. If such a thing is attempted, capitalists resort to any measures necessary (legal or illegal) to circumvent such controls, establish systems by which they end up benefiting from them (foreign currency speculation, black marketeering, hoarding) and generally resort to sabotage (investment strikes and capital flight). Venezuela is a textbook case of this. There are therefore only two solutions to the untenable status quo Hetland talks about. One resolves the crisis in the benefit of the capitalist class and imperialism. That is the one advocated by Guaido in his Plan Pais, with the backing of the US. It involves privatising state-owned companies, opening up the public sector to private capital, and above all opening up the oil industry (which is what John Bolton demanded). This would mean making the poor and workers pay the full price of the crisis. That is the oppositions programme, and it certainly does not give any weight to the voices of the popular classes. The other solution would be based on pursuing genuine revolutionary policies in the benefit of the majority, a return to the tasks that Chavez announced but left unfinished: a socialist economy and a communal state. A socialist economy would require the expropriation of the multinationals and the main capitalist groups in Venezuela, as well as the latifundia, in order to create a democratic plan of production under workers control to satisfy the needs of the majority. A communal state would imply putting power in the hands of workers committees, peasant committees and neighbourhood councils, so that the people can rule. Hetland seems to perceive only a handful of actors in Venezuela: the US, the far-right opposition, a mythical democratic opposition and the Maduro government. However, there is also a chavista revolutionary movement, which is not the same as the government. This can be found in the El Maizal, in organisations like Alexis Vive, in the few remaining experiences of workers control and in the tens-of-thousands of poor and working-class Venezuelans who have come out in the last few weeks to oppose imperialist intervention, but you will not find it in the pages of the mass media in the US. They are in different degrees critical of the Maduro government as a whole or at least of some of its worst aspects (corruption, bureaucracy, etc), but they know full well that the coming to power of Guaido, on the back of an imperialist intervention, would be a major disaster. What progressives in the US should do is, first and foremost, oppose the imperialist policies of their government (including sanctions and military intervention). This should be done, not just through writing articles but by organising a mass campaign in the streets and a mass education campaign amongst students and workers. That campaign must distance itself from and challenge the main premises that imperialism is using to justify its intervention. It does not mean suspending criticism of the Maduro government, but that criticism should be made from the point of view of the interests of Venezuelan workers and peasants, not with a view to pleasing liberal academics in the USA. Of course, such a campaign needs to offer an analysis of what has gone wrong in Venezuela, but that analysis needs to be firmly based on a class perspective, not on the utopian idea that EU-brokered talks can somehow resolve the conflict between the interests of the Venezuelan workers and poor and those of the oligarchy and imperialism. The New England Casket Company was destroyed Friday after a 9-alarm fire ripped through the building, sending heaving smoke filled with chemicals into the air in East Bostons Orient Heights neighborhood. About 200 firefighters from Boston, Chelsea, and Winthrop fought the fire, which broke out around 3 p.m., for more than seven hours. The industrial building on Bennington Street was destroyed, and the fire caused millions and millions of dollars in damages, Boston Fire Commissioner Joe Finn told media at the scene. As thick black smoke poured through the neighborhood, about 150 homes were evacuated, according to The Boston Globe. Residents were cleared to return home at 11 p.m. Friday. The fire started on the roof of the building and raged on until about 10:30 p.m., when firefighters said they were chasing hot spots. This is what it looked like last night, this is a picture of the damage it caused . The building is just a shell completely gutted by the fire pic.twitter.com/L1N9Z9Szox Boston Fire Dept. (@BostonFire) March 16, 2019 Five people were injured in the blaze, Finn told media at the scene late Friday. Two Boston police officers suffered smoke inhalation, two Boston firefighters were taken to the hospital for exhaustion, and one Chelsea firefighter reported a leg injury, according to the Globe. Boston Mayor Marty Walsh spoke at the scene and said the fire crews were struggling with water pressure because the building sits in a low-lying area, according to the Globe. Were down in the lowlands here. Thats where the pressure has a problem. Boston Water and Sewer Commission and the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority worked with Boston fire to increase water pressure in the area, Finn told the Globe. This is, for me, the biggest fire that Ive seen as mayor of the city, Walsh said. The New England Casket Company is just a shell completely gutted by the fire, Boston firefighters wrote on Twitter Saturday morning. The company, which makes caskets for the rich and the famous according to the Globe, has operated out of East Boston for nearly 80 years. It expanded and moved to Bennington Street after World War II. In March 2014 firefighters in Boston battled another 9-alarm blaze on Beacon Street. That fire, stoked by wind, killed two Boston firefighters Ed Walsh, 43, and Michael Kennedy, 33. More than 100 firefighters are battling a seven-alarm fire at the New England Casket Company in East Boston, officials said. Boston Fire Commissioner Joe Finn ordered a seventh alarm at the scene at about 5 p.m. Firefighters ordered people to avoid Bennington Street in East Boston as firefighters work to contain the fire. Boston firefighters arrived at the scene at 3:04 p.m., fire officials said. There is heavy smoke coming from the building, officials said. Chelsea firefighters are also helping to knock down the fire. No injuries have been reported. Firefighters have ordered evacuations in East Boston as they continue to battle a nine-alarm blaze Friday night. We have a long night ahead, fire officials tweeted. Thanks to @ChelseaFire_MA for the assist at the 9 alarm fire. Thanks also to the many outside departments staffing our neighborhood firehouses throughout the City and answering the calls. Great longtime plan for incidents like this." The fire at the New England Casket Company on 1141 Bennington St. was first reported around 3 p.m. Fumes from the lacquer on the burning caskets are toxic and the Boston Fire Department has ordered an evacuation of the area. There was a sprinkler system, but the fire was above the sprinkler system, Boston Fire Department Commissioner Joseph Finn told WCVB-TV. Our initial problems and why we are still here is the water supply, and this is because it just happens to be the end of the water supply for East Boston. Hundreds of firefighters have battled the blaze. The MBTAs Blue Line has been shut down between Orient Heights and Wonderland. Shuttle buses are replacing service in both directions, according to a MBTA alert. New England Casket Company was founded nearly 80 years ago in the Maverick Square area of East Boston. It expanded and moved to Bennington Street after World War II. Thank you to @BostonFire and all other first responders who helped control and put out the 9 alarm fire in #EastBoston Orient Heights this evening All residents can return safely home this evening thanks to your hard work and dedication@BOSTON_EMS @bostonpolice @ChelseaFire_MA pic.twitter.com/45lldunHpl Mayor Marty Walsh (@marty_walsh) March 16, 2019 A New Bedford woman was indicted Friday after a fellow corrections officer reported that she had sexual relations with an inmate. Vicki Oliver, a 53-year-old corrections officer at the Massachusetts Treatment Center in Bridgewater, was charged with one count of sexual relations with an inmate by a corrections officer after an investigation by the Massachusetts State Police assigned to the Plymouth County District Attorneys Office. On Feb. 17, a fellow corrections officer in Bridgewater reported that they witnessed Oliver having sex with the victim, a male inmate at the treatment center. Officials later interviewed the victim, who said he and Oliver had a sexual relationship between July 2018 through February 2019. Oliver will be arraigned on the charge at a later date in Brockton Superior Court. The Rev. Jason Seymour, president of the Interfaith Council of Greater Springeld, has issued a statement of common grief to those whom he called our Muslim neighbors and friends, saying we are with you in the wake of Fridays terror attack on two mosques in New Zealand by an accused gunman from Australia labeling himself a white nationalist that left 49 people died. Know that all of our communities, each in its own way, are praying for peace and for greater understanding. Know, too, that within our grief and sympathy dwells a steadfast resolve, said Seymour, who is minister for Unitarian Universalist Society of Greater Springeld, in the statement. Together, we condemn violence - against any community of faith - and we remain resolute in solidarity and mutual support. Put plainly, we are with you. We are grateful for your presence in this community that we all share. And we rearm our commitment to stand together against violence, ignorance, and fear. The Interfaith Council, which is holding a vigil of solidarity with the Islamic Society of Western Massachusetts on Sunday, also issued a longer statement in which it further condemns the message of hate in the actions of the accused gunman who livestreamed the attack. To our Muslim neighbors and friends, we stand with you in support and solidarity, affirming yet again the grace and dignity of your faithful lives working for good in our communities, and condemning all acts of hate against Muslims anywhere in this world. We want you among us, living in safety and freedom, and we affirm our shared values with you of justice, compassion and peacemaking, the statement said. To all who are shaken by this new act of horrific gun violence meant to target diversity in our communities, we know this tragic act adds to the growing list of terrorist attacks specifically targeting religious communities by right wing supremacists, such as the Tree of Life Synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh in fall 2018, and the Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina, in June 2015. We grieve the desecration of all these sacred spaces and decry racism, antisemitism, islamophobia and hate in all its forms. It adds, We affirm our commitment to a world governed not by fear and hate, but by love and understanding, bridge-building and inclusivity. The Interfaith Vigil and Gathering in Solidarity with Muslim Neighbors Sunday at the Islamic Society, 377 Amostown Road, West Springfield, begins with a silent outside vigil at 6:30 and then a program inside at 7 that includes evening prayer, statements of support and refreshments and concludes at 8 p.m. The attack in a country with strict gun laws that are now under review as the 28 -year-old accused gunman was in possession of a gun license has been described as the worst mass killing in its history. The dead, wounded or missing are said to have included Bangladeshis, Jordanians, Pakistanis, Indians, Indonesians, Afghans and Turks. They are us, said Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern shortly after the attacks which she referred to as one of New Zealands darkest days. It is estimated that approximately one percent of New Zealands population are Muslims. The country admits about 7,000 immigrants annually with most in recent years from China, the United Kingdom and Australia, and about 1,000 refugees annually, a number that under Arderns administration is set to increase to 1,500 by 2020. WEST SPRINGFIELD - The Islamic Society of Western Massachusetts and the Interfaith Council of Greater Springfield will hold a vigil of solidarity in response to the New Zealand mosque shootings Sunday, March 17, at 6:30 p.m. at the center, 377 Amostown Road. We have had an outpouring of messages of sympathy and solidarity from our neighbors and interfaith colleagues, said Dr. Mohammed Saleem Bajwa, a Holyoke physician and society member, of the event being held in the aftermath of the Friday shootings at two New Zealand mosques that has been labeled as terrorism and that left 49 people dead. We have planned the interfaith event because everyone wants to come and show support. Bajwa said the centers Friday night prayer service attracted a relatively larger crowd than usual. There was a sense of surprise: How could it happen? People expressed a lot of sadness, fear and concern, said Bajwa of reaction to the attack that occurred during similar services in Christchurch, a city of about 400,000 on New Zealands South Island. Imam Wissam Abdul-Baki preached about peace, tolerance and respect for humanity. He led the prayers for the victims of this brutal act of killing and also prayed that justice, mercy and peace will prevail. Bajwa added that West Springfield Police Chief addressed the congregation, and assured that his department will do everything possible for the safety of Muslim members of the community. The center, which has been attacked by vandals itself in the past, has hosted a number of interfaith meetings in recent years for the public to meet members, and its members have participated in other interfaith prayer services for victims of terrorism. Dozens of people were injured in the mosque shootings Friday, some of them critically, and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern labeled the attack terrorism. One main suspected has been arrested and charged with murder. The shootings occurred during services at Masji Al Noor and Linwood Masjid Mosque, which are about three miles apart, and video from one of them was livestreamed by the accused gunman who also posted a 74-page manifesto on social media as well in which he identified himself as a 28-year-old Australian and white nationalist. SPRINGFIELD Local officials and community activists said Thursday that there needs to be a stronger, multi-prong effort to improve housing in the city, including more resources to help landlords and tenants. Two City Council committees accepted public comments at Rebeccca Johnson School regarding ways the city can strengthen neighborhoods, reduce blight and help meet housing needs for residents citywide. We want to look at everything from home ownership to development of rental units and refurbishment to the existing (housing) stock, said Councilor Jesse Lederman, who co-chaired the meeting. We see this as the beginning of the conversation. More than 75 people attended the hearing, including representatives of city departments and nonprofit organizations that deal with housing issues, landlords and tenants. Thomas Kegelman, executive director of Home City Housing, said his agency has developed many affordable housing projects in Springfield with quality work done, but he believes other communities in the region need to do more. There needs to be a regional effort to address the needs of affordable housing, Kegelman said In addition, the city needs to ensure, through code enforcement, that only responsible landlords are able to operate in Springfield, he said. David Cotter, deputy director of code enforcement, said his inspectors and the Law Department crack down on troubled landlords, with housing court actions and some assignment of receivers to turn around troubled properties. In addition, it will also aid landlords for example, by offering advance inspections for a fee to protect them from problem tenants. Liz Bewsee, a housing advocate and organizer for Arise for Social Justice, urged more help for low-income tenants to ensure rents are affordable and that landlords are required to fix poor conditions. The city's inspectors and lawyers need to go after the landlords, she said. Denise Jordan, executive director of the Springfield Housing Authority, said the authority has more than 2,300 public units at 27 sites in Springfield, along with state and federal housing vouchers, with those seeking public housing on long waiting lists. The authority strives to provide for quality of life and empowerment, Jordan said. She joined others in saying there needs to be a stronger effort by other communities. Ben Foreman of MassINC., a nonprofit group that promotes public policy to benefit residents, praised Springfield officials for their housing improvement efforts, but said there is a need for more state and federal resources. He urged continued efforts to bring buildings up to code, saying it promotes neighborhood stabilization and well-being. Rose Webster-Smith, a representative of Springfield No One Leaves said, residents are being displaced by foreclosures and rising rents. The key is to help the current people living in Springfield. One aid to people living in Springfield is to provide them with a database of all existing resources to help tenants and homeowners, Webster-Smith said. Another aid would be very low interest loans or grants for aiding with correction of code violations, she said. Geraldine McCafferty, the city's director of housing, said that a high poverty rate in Springfield contributes to some of the distressed properties and blight, particularly in poorer neighborhoods. While her department works to help homeowners, landlords and tenants, she said she also wants to hear from the public on potential solutions. Elias Acuna, of the Realtors Association of Pioneer Valley, said it is definitely a "sellers' market" with higher prices for housing in Springfield. He said programs that would help with home repairs could be one avenue for improved conditions. "We want to continue talking to residents, developers, all members of the community on what steps we need to take at the local level and steps we should take to advocate at the state and federal level here," Lederman said. The meeting was co-chaired by Councilor Adam Gomez. Other participants included Springfield Neighborhood Housing Services. SPRINGFIELD The Pioneer Valley Project had planned Fridays protest outside the Smith & Wesson factory gates well before a gunman took the lives of 49 people in two shootings at mosques in New Zealand. But those shootings, only hours old, weighed heavily on the roughly 50 young people and adult chaperones who gathered for the protest on Roosevelt Avenue in favor of stricter gun controls. Jenedi Mohamed, 18, a senior at the High School of Commerce in Springfield, said he was apprehensive about attending traditional Friday night prayers at his mosque. That is where I go to pray to Allah, he said. If I dont feel safe in a place of prayer, something is wrong. Maana Daud, also a student at the High School of Commerce, said she too is a Muslim. It happened to Muslims in New Zealand, she said. But it can happen to anyone. The Pioneer Valley Project is an organization of teens, religious groups, labor unions and others that advocates around issues like criminal justice reform, education, housing and stopping gun violence. The event was also organized by the B-Peace for Jorge Campaign of the Episcopalian Dioceses of Massachusetts in Boston. Jorge was 19-year-old Jorge Fuentes, who was murdered while walking his dog in Dorchester 2012. Groups looking to stem gun violence have protested at Smith & Wesson, which now has the corporate name American Outdoor Brands Corp., since the February 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. A gunman used a Smith & Wesson rifle manufactured in Springfield to kill 17 students and staff members and injure 17 others. David Hogg, a survivor of the shooting, was there for one of the demonstrations. Protesters always ask to meet with CEO P. James Debney. The protesters are always rebuffed. Also last year, a group of Roman Catholic nuns from around the country bought stock in American Outdoor Brands to get a shareholders referendum passed forcing the company to give a public report on its efforts to stop gun violence and improve safety. The report, which came out in February 2019, rejected the nuns position. The Companys reputation as a strong defender of the Second Amendment is not worth risking for a vague goal of improving the companys reputation among non-customers or special interest groups with an anti-Second Amendment agenda, management wrote. Protesters on Friday quoted that paragraph. The nuns still own stock and are joined by another group, the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts in Springfield, which could also force a shareholders question at American Outdoor Brands next annual meeting. A Vermont state trooper had to be revived with several doses of Narcan when he collapsed after a drug stop Friday night. The Vermont State Police said Sgt. Brett Flansburg was completing an arrest for heroin possession when he began to feel ill and collapsed in the parking lot of the New Haven barracks. Troopers rushed to his aid and administered two doses of the anti-narcotic reversal drug and transported to the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington. While enroute to the hospital, officials said emergency medical personnel had to administer a third dose of Narcan. Once under medical care Flansburg began to improve and was later released from the hospital. Authorities said Flansburg stopped a vehicle in Leicester at about 11:30 p.m. Friday. As he questioned the driver, 25-year-old Taylor Woodward, Woodward swallowed a small quantity of what he later confirmed was cocaine. Flansburg then searched the car and found a small quantity of heroin and drug paraphernalia. Woodward was charged with suspicion of possession of heroin and taken to the New Haven barracks. Woodward was also taken to the hospital as a precaution. He was determined to not need medical care and was cited for possession of heroin. He will face arraigned May 6. Reserve tackle LaAdrian Waddle became the eighth Patriots regular to depart since New England won the Super Bowl last month. Waddle, a 6-foot-6, 315-pound Texas Tech alum signed with the Buffalo Bills, Saturday. The Bills made the announcement on Twitter. Terms of the one-year deal have not be released. Waddle was valuable filling in as a backup tackle since being traded from Detroit during the 2015 season. He appeared in every game in 2018. Hes the second departure on the offensive line following Trent Brown, who signed with the Raiders, out the door. The Patriots are counting on rookie Isaiah Wynn, who was injured last year to fill some of the void, but Waddles departure makes it almost certain the franchise will acquire a tackle in the draft or via trade. For years, for-profit colleges have portrayed themselves as champions of non-traditional, first-generation and low-income students. Its true that they cater to many of these students, but that doesnt mean they serve them well. For-profits have mastered the art of selling snake oil, convincing even many lawmakers that these schools give access to higher education to students who otherwise would not. The truth, however, is that for-profit colleges disproportionately overcharge, underperform and foreclose the futures of far too many students. The problem isnt isolated to the most egregious for-profit schools, as horrifying as the stories are of sham degrees sold by deceptive recruiters at Corinthian Colleges, worthless credits that employers laugh at from schools like ITT Tech, and sudden closures at schools like Technical Career Institute, Ridley Lowell, and the Art Institute of NYC. Its a problem endemic to the sector as a whole, including here in New York. In the Empire State, nearly half of all students (47 percent), and almost three-quarters of black students, who attended for-profit schools defaulted on their student loans within 12 years nearly fivetimes the rate at nonprofit and public colleges. Only 29 percent of for-profit schools spend at least half of tuition revenue on student instruction, compared to 78 percent of nonprofit schools. When it comes to student earnings, the outcomes at for-profits are equally dismal. According to the Center for an Urban Future, graduates at 73 percent of for-profit college programs in the state earn less than $25,000 on average, the equivalent of a high-school degree holder between the ages of 25 and 32. Whats more, the for-profit sector accounts for 98 percent of all student fraud claims and 41 percent of student loan defaults, despite enrolling only 6 percent of undergraduate students in New York. Faced with these realities many of which were brought to light by courageous students and whistleblowers following the 2015 collapse of Corinthian Colleges the Obama administration took steps to hold for-profit colleges accountable and protect students. But as important as such policies were, they have not curbed many of the abuses of the for-profit sector, and have done little to improve the value of a for-profit degree. The risks to students posed by for-profit colleges today have grown, as the Trump administration indulges the industrys profiteering. At Secretary Betsy DeVoss direction, the federal Department of Education has sought to dismantle Obama-era protections against for-profit fraud and abuse, and worked to weaken instructional quality standards and repeal debt relief programs for defrauded students. Its not just students who pay the price. Taxpayers subsidize all types of colleges, in the form of student aid and scholarship funds to schools. In 2015, New Yorkers delivered $68 million in state tuition aid to for-profit colleges, the highest in the country. More than half of that investment went to programs that failed or nearly failed to meet the federal gainful employment requirement a standard that compares graduates debt against their earnings. All 170 career-oriented programs at New Yorks CUNY and SUNY schools were evaluated under the same standard and passed. Fortunately, New York has a chance to respond differently and protect students. Gov. Andrew Cuomos proposed For-Profit Accountability Act would do just that, by ensuring that for-profit colleges spend at least half of tuition revenue on student instruction and receive no more than 80 percent of their funding from government sources. The proposed legislation also would prohibit for-profit colleges from taking away students legal rights by sneaking forced arbitration into enrollment contracts. Unsurprisingly, New Yorks for-profit lobby, which includes the Association of Proprietary Colleges, has reacted by calling attempts to regulate them as an assault on educational choices. Why should for-profits be treated any differently than public and nonprofit institutions, they ask. The answer is simple: because they are different. As leaders of two of our states public colleges, we know firsthand the differences in incentives facing for-profit colleges, which exist by definition to generate a profit, and nonprofit private and public colleges, which are already subject to government scrutiny. Our schools boards are accountable to the public, not private shareholders, and our leaders must invest students tuition dollars and state aid into educational purposes, not pocket that revenue as profit. At for-profit colleges, on the other hand, there are no internal checks on conflicts of interest and no requirements to prioritize the education of students over the returns to shareholders. As New Yorkers, we should take pride in our national leadership in making college more affordable and accessible. To see the transformative power of higher education, one needs to look no further than the City University of New York system, which in the last three decades has propelled almost six times as many low-income students into the middle class and beyond as all eight Ivy League schools combined. CUNY schools catalyze social mobility by expanding access to diverse student bodies, providing high-quality educational resources and keeping college costs affordable for students and their families. A similar picture can be painted for the value of our sister institutions in the State University of New York. It cannot be said of many of the for-profit colleges currently operating in the state. We should no longer accept that. We need to treat education and an educated citizenry like the public good it is. That means investing in institutions that truly advance knowledge, equity and social mobility, not those that trick and trap students with mountains of debt and worthless degrees. Tyreek Hill, a star wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs, is under investigation over allegations of battery stemming from an incident earlier this week, according to multiple reports. According to the Kansas City Star, the victim is Hills 3-year-old son, who suffered a broken arm. Hills fiance, Crystal Espinal, was included among others involved. As of Friday evening, Hill has yet to be accused of any crime, according to The Star. According to KCTV5 in Kansas City, police were also called to Hills home in regards to a report of child abuse or neglect, which police closing the report three days later. The Chiefs have released a statement regarding the incident: The club is aware of the investigation. Were in the process of gathering information and have been in contact with the league and local authorities. Well have no further comment at this time. While he was in college in 2014, Hill was accused of punching and choking Espinal, who was pregnant with the couples child at the time. Hill later plead guilty to those charges in 2015. In 2018, those charges were dismissed and expunged following the completion of his three-year probation, according to The Oklahoman. This is the second time within the past year that such an incident involving a Chiefs player has come to light. In November 2018, video emerged of then-Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt shoving and kicking a woman at a hotel. The Chiefs released Hunt shortly after the video emerged. He has since signed with the Cleveland Browns and will be suspended for the first eight games of the 2019 regular season. An off-duty Auburn firefighter who was having dinner at the towns American Legion Post Friday helped evacuate nearly 200 guests as a fast moving three-alarm fire destroyed the building. Auburn firefighters responded to the Chester P. Tuttle Post on Bancroft Street at about 8 p.m., after receiving a 911 call about a fire in the kitchen. At the time of the 911 call the building was occupied with a little over 200 people eating dinner on the first floor of the building and patrons in the bar on the basement level, Auburn Fire said in a statement. More than 200 people were eating dinner on the first floor of the building when the fire broke out, according to firefighters. With the help of the off-duty firefighter and others everyone safely evacuated. The third alarm was called at about 8:11 p.m. and firefighters were ordered out of the building because of deteriorating conditions. Minutes later the roof collapsed. No injuries were reported. With the amount of people in the building at the time of the fire we are extremely lucky tonight that we did not have any serious injuries and that everyone was able to escape the building quickly" Auburn Fire Rescue Chief Stephen M. Coleman Jr. said. The fire is not believed to be suspicious and is under investigation by the State Fire Marshals Office. Firefighers from Oxford, Millbury, Leicester, Charlton, Webster, Sturbridge and Worcester helped at the scene. When hundreds of thousands of revelers flood Fifth Avenue to commemorate St. Patricks Day on March 16, one could view the spectacle through emerald-tinted glasses of nostalgia. New York has the most Irish-Americans of any major city in the country, but their political clout reached an unheralded nadir last year after state Sen. Marty Golden and Reps. Joe Crowley and Dan Donovan were swept from power by challengers half their age. The trio of lawmakers losses were followed by the deaths this winter of two of the citys last Irish-American power brokers, former Brooklyn District Attorney Charles Hynes and former Hells Kitchen Democratic District Leader Jimmy McManus, marking the passing of an epoch when the Irish once ruled the five boroughs. For over a century, Irish-Americans were the backbone of New York Citys political and civil service class. Candidates for judge, district attorney or state Assembly were chosen by Irish-dominated machines descended from Tammany Hall, and the police and fire departments were dominated by Irishmen from the commissioners down to the rank-and-file. But demographic change has reduced the citys Irish political contingent to a shadow of its former self, as newer immigrant groups and a declining white share of the electorate along, in some cases, with gentrification push New York City politics leftward. In fact, the few remaining elected officials in the city with Irish heritage are as likely to be liberal representatives of gentrified Manhattan who grew up outside the city and moved in like any other young professional as they are to be natives to a historically Irish neighborhood. Republican state Sen. Marty Goldens narrow 51-49 percent defeat to Democrat Andrew Gounardes was one of several seat flips last November that ushered in Democratic rule in Albany. Since 2003, Golden had represented a swath of southern Brooklyn white ethnic enclaves, such as Marine Park, Bensonhurst and Gerritsen Beach. But even these neighborhoods have changed. Goldens own Bay Ridge, which was 78 percent white in 2000, had become only 56 percent white by 2016. The newer immigrant groups from East Asia and the Middle East tend to be more Democratic than the Irish-American and Italian-American voters they are replacing. (One notable exception is right-leaning immigrants from the former Soviet Union.) Even the white candidates tend to hail from countries with more recent immigration surges, such as Greece or Albania. Gounardes, for example, is a 33-year-old Greek-American Democrat, and Bay Ridge voters backed him with 64 percent of the vote to Goldens 36 percent. The winds of change were so strong in southern Brooklyn that they knocked Staten Island Republican Dan Donovan out of office as well. The 62-year-old half-Irish congressman was upset by Democrat Max Rose, a 32-year-old veteran of the war in Afghanistan, by a 53 to 47 percent margin. Rose, who grew up in Park Slope, Brooklyn, trounced the two-term incumbent by 8,700 votes in southern Brooklyn and edged him by 1,200 votes in Staten Island with support from the solidly blue (and racially diverse for Staten Island) North Shore. But the clearest sign of a citywide Irish power outage was the stunning fall of House Democratic Caucus Chairman and Queens Democratic boss Joe Crowley to a 28-year-old first-time candidate in last Junes congressional primary. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ousted the erstwhile rising star 57 to 43 percent thanks to especially heavy turnout in Astoria, Jackson Heights and Sunnyside formerly Irish-Americans bastions that have become a polyethnic patch of recent immigrants from Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe and young professionals priced out of Manhattan and the trendier parts of Brooklyn. On the campaign trail, Crowley acknowledged the changes but revealed how he had become out of touch with his district, pointing to a popular Mexican restaurant but butchering its pronunciation. The results shocked Congress and the nation, but some Queens pols saw the upset coming after a 2010 redistricting added majority-Latino parts of the east Bronx to Crowleys district. We knew the handwriting was on the wall that he would eventually get a challenge, said New York Councilman Robert Holden, a Democrat from Maspeth, Queens. Crowley voluntarily resigned as Queens Democratic chairman in February and Democratic district leaders replaced him a month later with Rep. Gregory Meeks, the first African-American to lead the party in the borough. Crowleys abrupt downfall can be seen as the end of the line of a succession of Irish-American political bosses that stretches across boroughs and through time back to to the second Industrial Revolution. It took only a generation for Irish immigrants who fled their homeland in the mid-19th century during the Great Famine to gain a foothold in New York politics. By 1850, there were 130,000 Irish immigrants living in New York City, and a decade later there were 200,000, or one-quarter of the citys population. The new immigrants needed jobs and social services, which the citys Democratic political machine, known as Tammany Hall, provided in exchange for their votes. After Boss Tweeds embezzlement arrest and conviction in 1872, John Kelly, an Irish-American, took over Tammany Hall, and the Irish remained the machines base for decades thereafter. New Yorks most successful Irish-American politician was Democrat Alfred Smith, the trailblazing machine pol became the states first Irish Catholic governor and the first Catholic to receive a major party nomination for president, in 1928. The Irish were so prevalent in New York that they were also among the most successful anti-machine elected officials in town. William Russell Grace, a Democrat and independently wealthy entrepreneur who made his fortune shipping bat guano and other resources from South America, ran against Tammany Halls failure to maintain the city's infrastructure and became the citys first Irish Catholic mayor in 1880, one of a dozen who would serve in City Hall over the century. Mayor Robert Wagner Jr., another Tammany product who was half-Irish, broke from Tammany Hall by 1961, in his third term, which led to the machines eventual dissolution by the mid-1960s. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, an Irish-American raised in Hells Kitchen, represented New York in the U.S. Senate for 24 years. Between the 1960s and 1980s, Irish-Americans joined other whites in leaving the city in droves for the suburbs and other parts of the country. Historically Irish neighborhoods such as Wakefield in the Bronx and Bay Ridge and Marine Park in Brooklyn became predominantly African-American, Caribbean-American, Middle Eastern or Latino. But Irish-American politicians continued to wield influence in City Hall and Albany from outer borough enclaves in which their families had settled for generations. Edward Flynn and Patrick Cunningham controlled the Bronx Democratic Party for more than a half century, helping bring the Democratic National Convention to New York in 1976 and 1980. Irishmen such as Tom Manton and Crowley played a prominent role in the Queens Democratic Party for a half century, anointing City Council and state Assembly speakers and assembling coalitions with other county delegations to back mayors and governors. Their slippage has been gradual, and it didnt just come all at once this year. Marty Connor, a Brooklyn state senator since 1978, lost his seat to Daniel Squadron in a 2008 primary challenge. Hynes, the boroughs district attorney since 1973, squandered his seat in a 2013 primary to Ken Thompson and failed a second time in the general election when he ran on the Republican and Conservative Party lines. The traditional blue-collar Irish Democrat is under pressure from two sides: On the one hand, white Catholics have become more Republican, while Democrats have become less white and more liberal. So, for example, Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley, the former Democratic boss cousin, couldnt survive a general election challenge from Holden, who ran on the Republican, Conservative and Reform party lines after coming up short in the Democratic primary. Today, a few young progressive Irish-Americans who grew up in Irish neighborhoods have recently won office by keeping up with their districts transformation. In the New York City Council, Justin Brannan represents Bay Ridge and Jimmy Van Bramer, who is part Irish, represents Queens Sunnyside, Astoria and Long Island City. Robert Carroll, whose grandfather founded the Brooklyn St. Patricks Day parade, represents Brooklyns Windsor Terrace, Park Slope and Kensington in the state Assembly, while Brian Barnwell represents parts of Woodside, Sunnyside, Maspeth and Middle Village. The slow exodus of tens of thousands of Irish Catholic families to New Yorks suburbs and exurbs has meant their power is now greater in Long Island, the northern suburbs and parts of upstate than it is in New York City. Republican Rep. Peter King, an outspoken proponent of Irish causes, was raised in Sunnyside, but he represents the South Shore of Long Island. State Senate Minority Leader John Flanagan is from Suffolk County. And Irish-Americans MaryEllen Odell and Laura Curran have found success as county executives in Putnam and Nassau counties. In neighborhoods dominated by mostly white affluent professionals who come from all over the country, representatives may happen to be part Irish, including City Councilman Keith Powers from Manhattans East Side and Council Speaker Corey Johnson, whose district includes Chelsea and the western half of Midtown. Yet the Irish-American grip on New York City has loosened as its population growth stalled. Between the years of 2007 and 2017, the number of people with Irish ancestry in the city fell 14 percent, from 434,142 to 371,354, according to American Community Survey estimates. The percentage of New Yorkers with Irish ancestry made up a paltry 5 percent of the citys population in 2017, compared to 22 percent in 1900. Irish Americans havent left the halls of power entirely. The City Councils Irish Caucus and the American-Irish Legislators Society combined still count more than a dozen members from New York City. Our presence in politics and government will always be there, said Staten Island Assemblyman and AILS president Michael Cusick, a Democrat. Some lawmakers in Queens may be the last Irish-Americans to represent their neighborhoods. One of them is Daniel Dromm, the City Councils Irish Caucus chairman whose Heights-Elmhurst district contains a burgeoning South Asian and Central American population. Dromm, who is gay, has been able to build a career in politics by serving the needs of the citys most diverse neighborhoods and reaching out to LGBTQ voters, union members and the Democratic machine that was originally skeptical of him. Even before I ran for the Council, it was hard for me to get my foot in the door in the Queens county organization as the first gay person (seeking support), but being Irish helped me with them more than being gay, Dromm said. Van Bramers northwest Queens district used to contain the citys most concentrated pocket of Irish-American voters, but he doesnt think of it as an Irish district anymore. We have a lot of new immigrants in Sunnyside and Woodside, but we also have a lot of new residents moving in some folks will call them hipsters or gentrifiers a lot of new families, and a lot of newer arrivals dont even know necessarily or care that it was once a heavily Irish American neighborhood, Van Bramer said. The younger generation is less wed to some of the identity politics of the past. Right now, in my district progressive ideas and policy positions matter a lot more than identity. Correction: This article referred to Councilman Robert Holden as a Republican and wrote that he switched parties to join the GOP after losing the Democratic primary. Although he was elected on the Republican line, he is a Democrat who received the Republican nomination through a Wilson-Pakula authorization. Correction: This article originally incorrectly stated that Donald Manes was Irish. Correction: This article originally incorrectly stated that the St. Patrick's Day parade will be on March 17. Although St. Patrick's Day is on March 17, the parade will be held on Saturday, March 16. , Mediapool.bg, , - . - , . 18:00 . by Wendy Davis , Staff Writer @wendyndavis, March 14, 2019 In recent years, tech companies that played fast and loose with customers' data have faced lawsuits, civil investigations by the government, and even fines by the Federal Trade Commission. But criminal prosecutions weren't on the table. Until now, that is. The New York Timesreported Wednesday evening that federal prosecutors in the Eastern District of New York are pursuing a criminal investigation into Facebook's data sharing practices. A grand jury has already reportedly subpoenaed at least two smartphone manufacturers that entered into partnerships with Facebook. Both of the manufacturers reportedly were able to obtain personal information about Facebook users as a result of the arrangements. advertisement advertisement The Times says the precise focus of the investigation isn't yet clear. The paper notes that the company was already facing governmental inquiries over news that the data consultancy Cambridge Analytica harvested personal information of up to 87 million users. Facebook says it's cooperating with the investigations, according to the Times. While there are numerous reasons why Facebook's decision to share users' information with app developers or other outside companies was ill-advised, it's not clear how doing so could have violated any criminal laws. The company has consistently argued that its data transfers didn't violate promises to users, or a 2011 consent decree that prohibits Facebook from misrepresenting its privacy practices. Facebook has argued in court papers and other public statements that its privacy policies notified users their data could be shared with other companies. While the company almost certainly doesn't have public opinion on its side, it isn't necessarily wrong on the law: Facebook may well have disclosed the possibility of data sharing with outside parties -- albeit in fine print that virtually no one read. In fact, U.S. District Court Judge Vince Chhabria, who is presiding over a class-action lawsuit stemming from the Cambridge Analytica fiasco, recently indicated he believes Facebook disclosed its practices to users via privacy policies. If you read the words, you come away knowing that even if you limit your settings so that you're sharing only with friends, these third-party apps can communicate with your friends and get all of the information that your friends have access to unless you further change your settings, Chhabria said, according to a transcript Facebook provided to a judge presiding over a lawsuit brought by the Washington D.C. attorney general. Even then, Chhabria continued, you can further change your settings, but if you want to have a meaningful Facebook experience, apps are still going to get some subset of information about you. All of that seems to be disclosed. Of course, even if Facebook prevails in its various legal fights, Congress could pass new privacy laws that would restrict the use of online data. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) has already floated a privacy and security bill that provided for criminal sanctions, including up to 20 years in prison, for some senior executives. New court rulings in favor of Facebook (and other tech companies) could give even more momentum to efforts to pass bills like the one proposed by Wyden. by Larissa Faw , March 16, 2019 Brands and agencies are recognizing St. Patrick's Day on Sunday, March 17 with special activities and events. Chemistry Atlanta celebrated the day on Thursday, since the holiday falls on a non-work day this year, with a bar-hopping leprechaun hunt. Employees received a note when they arrived in the morning with a number assigning them to a team before heading to the Fado Irish Pub for lunch and drinks. Chemistrys Chief Creative Officer Chris Breen and president Tim Smith found a spot to hide at one of the 10 bars on the list. Teams go drinking from bar to bar and the first to find the "leprechauns" win an array of (fake) gold and green prizes. Spotifys For The Record kicked off the weekend with a Friday post that features the top St. Patrick's Day songs that stream in Ireland. advertisement advertisement This year, Austin-based innovation agency T3, is hosting a happy hour for St. Pattys Day with holiday treats and green beer organized by their people and culture team. Bud Light is attempting to give beer drinkers a "light alternative" so they can still feel "authentically Irish, without having to do anything crazy like drink stout," says Stacey Mikula, senior brand director, Bud Light Innovation. The limited-edition bottle, developed by FCB/RED, the retail division of FCB Chicago, features accurately translated Gaelic writing in place of the classic Bud Light banner, Celtic knots steeped in traditional Irish folklore and the original three-leafed shamrock. The bottle's color is inspired by the hue of the grass in the Killarney Hills, the company says. The beer, however, still tastes the same. New research in mouse models shows that stress hormones can help breast cancer grow, spread, and diversify, which makes it harder to treat. Share on Pinterest A study in mice sheds light on the mechanisms through which stress can contribute to the spread of breast cancer. Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. In the United States, there were about 266,120 new cases last year, according to the National Cancer Institute. Although breast cancer is also one of the most treatable types of cancer, once it metastasizes that is, grows and spreads it can be quick to diversify. When cancer tumors are so diverse, doctors may find it hard to apply the right kind of treatment, as the therapy that works for one type of tumor may have no effect on another. Previous research that Medical News Today covered suggests that exposure to chronic (long-term) stress is one factor that contributes to cancer cell growth in breast cancer. Now, a new study conducted by a team from the University of Basel and the University Hospital of Basel in Switzerland has uncovered further evidence to suggest that stress can fuel the spread of breast cancer tumors, perhaps also supporting their diversification. The study which the team carried out in a mouse model found that stress hormones support breast cancer metastasis. The scientists also state that the stress hormone derivatives present in certain anti-inflammatory treatments could actually disarm chemotherapy agents. Lead author Prof. Mohamed Bentires-Alj and colleagues explain their findings in a new study paper that appears in the journal Nature. Intra-patient tumor heterogeneity is an obstacle to treatment, they note, as it causes divergence in diagnostic markers between primary tumors and matched metastases that may lead to inadequate treatment. They say that new research needs to find a way to address this mismatch. Choosing the best camera smartphone can be a tiring task especially when there's an influx of devices. Camera technology has gotten a lot better over the years, and it is safe to say that it has come to a point where one can confidently carry a smartphone and not worry about missing a moment in search of professional cameras. Currently, there are a lot of smartphones out there with good cameras. In fact, some smartphones which we have on this list are best known for their camera prowess more than anything else. So if you're planning to buy a new smartphone with a promising camera, then here are some great options - 1. Pixel 3a, 3a XL MensXP/Akshay Bhalla Google's Pixel 3 and 3 XL smartphones, as we all know, are probably one of the best camera smartphones you can buy this year. But if you don't have the budget to get your hands on the flagship Pixel phones, then you might want to check out the new budget Pixel phones that Google just unveiled last week at the Google I/O 2019 event. In terms of the specs, the new budget Pixel phones are not as powerful as the flagship phones. However, they have the exact same cameras as the flagship Pixel, which means you're not loosing out on anything, at least when it comes to the camera. In case you're interested, then be sure to check out our full review of the phone here. 2. Huawei P30 Pro MensXP/ Akshay Bhalla Last year's Huawei Mate 20 Pro is still on this list, but the new Huawei P30 Pro brings a ton of improvements to the table. The most noteworthy improvement here has got to be the addition of the zoom lens. As mentioned in our review, the zoom lens on the P30 Pro is one of the most impressive sensors we've seen, as it can do image stabilization even when zoomed in well over 10x. It's very impressive as there's a lot to talk about on the phone's camera performance, but we suggest you check out our full review of the phone to see all the camera samples and get an understanding of what this camera can do. 3. Redmi Note 7 Pro YouTube Yes, this may come as a surprise considering the fact that it's a budget offering. But there's no denying that this phone has really good cameras. We even compared the Redmi Note 7 Pro's cameras with iPhone XR's camera and surprisingly found the Note 7 Pro's camera to be better. Since we are talking about a budget offering, the Realme 3 Pro also gets an honourable mention. Of course, not everyone will like the photos captured from a Realme 3 Pro, but they closely resemble the pictures taken from a Redmi Note 7 Pro. You can check out our Redmi Note 7 Pro here and Realme 3 Pro's review for a detailed look at the cameras. 4. Huawei Mate 20 Pro MensXP/ Akshay Bhalla The Huawei Mate 20 Pro, with its unique camera array, has won our hearts when it comes to smartphone photography. Its triple camera setup includes a main 40 megapixels sensor, an ultra-wide 20-megapixels sensor and a third eight-megapixel telephoto lens. The camera support 0.6 to 5x optical zoom and you can go crazy with up to 10X digital zoom. One of the things which we really like about the images taken from the Mate 20 Pro is that they have a lot of details. The images also have great colour accuracy, which is always a good thing. The Mate 20 Pro also shines when it comes to low-light photography, especially when used with the dedicated night mode. We have a lot of camera samples in our full review of the phone, so be sure to check it out here. 5. iPhone XS MensXP/ Akshay Bhalla iPhones have always been promising when it comes to photography, and the new iPhone XS and the XS Max are no exception. The iPhone XS camera is a powerful dual 12-megapixel shooter with one being an f/1.8 sensor and other being an f/2.4 sensor. Both have OIS and they can produce some stunning shots. The photos captured from the iPhone have natural colours, and the telephoto lens helps shooting imaging with great details even from a distance. Other camera features like Smart HDR and Depth control are just icing on the cake. Again, we've discussed the cameras and the phone itself in our detailed review, so be sure to check it out here. 6. Samsung Galaxy S10 MensXP/ Akshay Bhalla Samsung's latest flagship phones, the Galaxy S10 and the Galaxy S10 Plus, have amazing cameras. Unlike the last year's devices, the S10 and the S10 Plus have three cameras. The setup includes an optically stabilised 12-megapixel main sensor with a dual aperture that can switch between f/1.5 and f/2.4. The second sensor is an ultra-wide 16-megapixel f/2.2 sensor, and the last sensor is a stabilised 12-megapixel telephoto one. Be it landscape, portraits or low-light photos, the Galaxy S10 can do the trick for you. The Live Focus mode works like a charm as it accurately blurs the background. You can also capture some stunning HDR shots with this phone, like the ones which we've added in our full review of the phone here. 7. Nokia 9 PureView YouTube HMD Global finally unveiled the Nokia 9 PureView at the MWC 2019 this year, and oh boy, were the leaks real. This smartphone has five 12 megapixel f/ 1.8 sensors at the back, which are clearly the main selling point here. Two of these sensors can take colour images, whereas the other three sensors can capture monochrome images for things like contrast, depth, and exposure data. With so many sensors at work, the Nokia 9 PureView is said to be capable of taking some stunning portrait shots. Nokia has also worked with Light, Qualcomm, and Carl Zeiss to make this penta-cam setup possible, so we're counting on it to be one of the best camera smartphones out there. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 15) The bill strengthening the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) takes a backseat as President Rodrigo Duterte rejected the provision to increase its employees' benefits. In his letter to both houses of Congress released Friday, Duterte said he was "contrained to veto" the bill as one of its provisions -- granting benefits beyond the current compensation framework -- would be "too onerous" for the government. The President said this "would erode the national government's thrust to standardize and rationalize the current compensation framework in the bureaucracy, create "too much disparity and inequality" among public servants in the executive branch, and "undermine the principle of 'equal pay for work of equal value'." "I thus urge Congress to prioritize reviewing this measure once again so that our shared objective of strengthening the OSG would be realized without undermining other equally vital fiscal and policy considerations," Duterte said. He stressed that he is for strengthening the OSG, the office of the government's top lawyer, currently led by Jose Calida. Earlier, the House of Representatives' version wanted the OSG to replace and effectively abolish the Presidential Commission on Good Government, the agency tasked to recover alleged ill-gotten wealth of the late President Ferdinand Marcos. The bicameral conference committee, however rejected the provision, along with the proposal to also abolish the Office of the Government Corporate Counsel, which is "the principal and statutory law office" of government-owned-and-controlled corporations, their subsidiaries and government financial institutions, among others. Meanwhile, critics fear the proposed measure will only make the OSG more powerful, following the ouster Maria Lourdes Sereno as Chief Justice. It was Calida who filed the quo warranto petition to remove Sereno from office. This was approved by the Supreme Court in a historic 2018 ruling, making Sereno the first impeachable official to be removed from office without a Senate trial. Everyone eligible should be vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of long-distance travel or employment. Vaccination should be voluntary but those who don't get vaccinated should be frequently tested for COVID-19 as a condition of long-distance travel and employment. Both vaccination and testing should be voluntary and not required as a condition of long-distance travel or employment. I defer to the judgment of lawmakers as long as they base their decisions on a consensus of medical professionals. Vote View Results UNIONVILLE -- Christ the King Lutheran School in Unionville recently hosted State Sen. Kevin Daley to celebrate March is Reading Month. Daley spent the morning with preschool, pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and first grade students reading about farm life and some of the many ways farmers fill our refrigerators, pantries, tables and stomachs. Students enjoyed their time interacting with Daley, and spent time talking about passing new laws and the types of law they would like to pass. Students had some fun ideas, including letting kids grow up to be princesses and ninjas, not having to mow the lawn, and being able to keep your sister out of your bedroom. "Any time you can bring reading to life and provide students with a memorable experience is a great day. Having Sen. Daley read with our students gave them an exciting experience and an opportunity to interact with an elected official, something many youth never have the opportunity to experience," said Christ the King Principal Katie Gremel. UPPER THUMB Environmental experts this week said President Donald J. Trump's call to make a 90 percent spending cut for a Great Lakes cleanup program would, among many things, hurt local economies. The president's 2020 budget offers $30 million for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which gets $300 million most years, the Associated Press reported. The initiative removes toxic pollution, prevents algae blooms and species invasions, and restores wildlife habitat. Experts held a brief phone conference this week to discuss the presidents proposal and what it could potentially mean. The conference was spearheaded by Jordan Lubetkin, regional communications director of the National Wildlife Federation. This budget is a nonstarter if were going to keep seeing restoration results the region, said Chad Lord, policy director for Healing Our Waters-Great Lakes Coalition. Cutting funding will only make projects more difficult and expensive as we wait. Lord said President Trumps budget cuts core Great Lakes programs and undermines efforts to restore the lakes. These proposed budget cuts will impact people by reducing opportunities for outdoor recreation that fuels local economies, added Gildo Tori, acting chief of policy with Ducks Unlimited. Tori said the budget proposal would hurt local communities who thrive on tourism such as the Thumb area for revenue. The president does not have the final word in the story, Lord said. Congress controls the purse strings. For the last two years, President Trump has tried to cut Great Lakes Restoration and clean water programs, he added. Each time, Congress has rejected these cuts. U.S. Rep. Paul Mitchell, who represents the state's 10th Congressional District, stated he is once again disappointed in the president's proposal to cut initiative funding. "Our Great Lakes are a national treasure, and the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative supports critical projects that improve water quality, combat invasive species, protect the Great Lakes ecosystem, and more," Mitchell stated in a news release. "As I did in 2017 and 2018, I will work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to fight for full funding of the GLRI. The 10th District consists of Huron, Tuscola, Sanilac, St. Clair, Lapeer and northern Macomb counties. UBLY Rose Allen was born in Harbor Beach, but for the last six decades, she has called Ubly home. Its a small town, but it is a very compassionate town, she said. The town has been good to me. There are a lot of good people in this town. Allen is the daughter of the late Gertrude and Isadore (Pete) OParka. She was born in Harbor Beach, but she was raised in Parisville, where she attended the local Catholic school. Years later, she earned her high school diploma from the Cambridge Academy. As a teenager, she regularly attended the Arcadia Dance Hall in Parisville. She met the love of her life at one of the dances. She and William (Bill) Allen were married in 1950 after he had served in the military during World War II. Bill died in 1992. After they were married, the couple lived in Ubly for a short time. They then moved to Ohio for Bills job. Their desire to return home was strong, and the couple moved back to Ubly in the late 1950s. The couple had three sons and a couple dozen grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Somehow, while raising a family, Allen was able to work at Tower Industries in Elkton. She retired after 50 years with the company. Her son and grandson now work for Tower. Like many communities in Huron County, Ubly has changed considerably over the years. Yet, Allen feels it is a great place to live. The local factories have been a great asset to the village. We have a lot of employment with our factories, she said. They keep this town going. Without them, our taxes would be sky high. Other things which have helped to enrich the community are two doctor's offices and a physical therapy facility in town. There are two gas stations and at least two beauty shops. It also boasts a large automobile dealership on the north side of town. She admits there is only one full service restaurant in town, but she feels it is excellent. She thinks North Star Bank is a great asset. North Star is excellent," she said. "The employees are very friendly and helpful. In addition to loving her community, Allen has spent most of her lifetime giving back. The list of things she has been involved with is extensive. Allen worked 35 years for the Bingham Ambulance Service. I was one of the original ambulance workers, she said. Im only one of two of the original group left. Although she no longer works as an EMT, she still teaches CPR, first aid, and gives AED training. She was a member of the Red Cross when they were in Huron County, and she was the president for about four years. In addition, Allen is a member of the TVO Auxiliary, having served 24 years as president. Im a Lioness and a Lions Club member," she said. The Ubly Chapter still has the Lionesses as part of their organization, but they will soon meet to discuss if this will be continued or disbanded. The Lions are very active in Ubly." she said. She explained the group holds an annual blood drive,is part of Adopt a Highway, and is active in the Kids Sight Program. It also sponsored a Halloween party each year. I was the Lion of the Year, which was quite an honor," she added. She is also a member of the Community Club, and has been for about 10 years. She is proud they have sponsored the farmers market in town for the past year, and she hopes this will be a project that continues in the future. She is a member of the local Historical Society, and has belonged to the Ubly Homecoming Committee for about 10 years. Well have our first meeting of the year in March, and homecoming will be in July, she said. Allen also is very involved with her church, St. John Catholic Church/Good Shepherd Parish. She helps with its fundraisers that help families in need and fund local school scholarships. She is also a Eucharistic minister, and assists with communion. We have an excellent priest, Father Charlie Hammond," she said. "Im very sorry hell be leaving in July. While talking about the church, she said she has been a Daughter of Isabella for 38 years, and is also a past president of the local organization. Allen said the group holds a regular meeting every month, the same night the Knights of Columbus holds its monthly meeting. Each month, they elect a Daughter of the Month. Each year, they choose the Daughter of the Year from these 12. I was fortunate to be elected Daughter of the Year, she said. It was quite an honor. In addition, Allen was on the Ubly Village Council for 17 years, and she was on the planning committee. As Allen spoke, she said she is not the only member of the family who has given back to this nation and to the Village of Ubly. Her husband, Bill, was a member of the 96th Signal Company with the 96th Infantry Division during World War II, while serving in the Philippine Islands. He was discharged in December 1946. During his time in Ubly, he had served as a firefighter and as a village police officer. Allen admits she is not as young as she used to be. Still, she has a lot of living to do. In addition to the organizations she is involved with, she remains active on many fronts. Im enjoying my family now, she said. We go camping and spend weekends together. My kids are really good to me. I have four sisters, and we do many things together. Last year, we went to Maine," she added. "We had so much fun on that trip. It was a blast. Weve been to Nashville and have taken many other trips. Allen loves Ubly, and she has no intentions of leaving. Its good to walk up town, she said. People stop to talk to you. They all know your name. We have an excellent fire department and police department. We have a great school. Its a safe place to live. Ubly is a good town. I plan to live here the rest of my life. China's annual gathering of leaders in Beijing ended Friday after 11 days of meetings that unveiled a lower annual growth target, sweeping tax cuts, and a new foreign investment law. There also were new insights on the government's strategy to rein in debt, its efforts to funnel more credit to private companies and improve the business environment, and the trade negotiations with the U.S. There were even some rare comments on the Xinjiang region's controversial mass detention camps. "Maintaining overall stability seems to have become the paramount objective," said Chen Xingdong, chief China economist at BNP Paribas SA in Beijing. "Policymakers seem to feel that implementing the China-U.S. trade deal will create pressure." Here are five takeaways: - The economy: The message on the economy was clear: China won't resort to debt-fueled stimulus, is doubling down on efforts to get more credit to efficient private companies, and is striving to improve the business environment for them and foreign companies. It lowered the annual growth target to 6 to 6.5 percent from about 6 percent last year, creating the wiggle room to shift away from credit-fueled expansion while avoiding past credit blowouts. The almost 2 trillion yuan of tax cuts announced is unprecedented and Finance Minister Liu Kun said the actual amount may be higher. To help pay for it while raising the budget deficit target only 0.2 percentage point to 2.8 percent of gross domestic product, Premier Li Keqiang said at his annual press conference Friday that the "blade of the knife" will be turned on the government itself. About 1 trillion yuan will be utilized from the profits of central state enterprises and financial institutions as well as by mobilizing existing idle funds, Li said. "The lowering of the growth target reflects that policymakers have come to accept the reality of lower growth in exchange for long-term sustainability," said Michelle Lam, a greater China economist at Societe Generale SA in Hong Kong. - Hidden debt: The campaign to rein in leverage is shifting to so-called hidden debt, referring to off-balance-sheet loans or borrowings of local government entities. Across the country, provinces and cities are looking for ways to reduce their implicit borrowings. Some are seeking cheap refinancing from the nation's largest policy lender, the China Development Bank, and others are selling off state-owned assets such as office buildings and housing. Hidden debt in some places exceeds the on-book borrowing, said Zhu Mingchun, a lawmaker of the National People's Congress, without naming places directly. Payments due for local-government financing vehicle debt, just part of the off-book borrowing, could reach 2.3 trillion yuan this year, according to estimates by Industrial Securities Co. in Hong Kong. The fact that there is no official estimate of the size of the implicit debt, which usually carries higher rates than on-book ones, makes the issue even trickier. S&P Global Inc. estimated in October that hidden debt totals about 40 trillion yuan. "The problem can't be delayed anymore," as in many places fiscal revenues and gross domestic product aren't enough to cover the interest and principal, said Lu Ting, chief China economist at Nomura Holdings Inc. - Foreign investment law: The passage of a new foreign investment law Friday allows, on paper at least, for all companies registered in China to compete on equal terms from Jan 1, 2020. Forced technology transfers are banned, applications for operating licenses will be treated equally, and government support will apply equally to foreign firms. All are controversial issues that helped trigger the trade war with the U.S. While Societe Generale SA says the new law, passed with unusual speed, is symbolically important and marks a further opening up step, foreign companies complain that China has for years been long on promises and short on their delivery. They'll wait to see if the law will be forcefully executed. "Implementation and enforcement has long been the missing ingredient in China," said Katrina Ell, an economist with Moody's Analytics in Sydney. "Enforcement is critical for it to be effective." - Trade talks: It wasn't on the agenda but there was no way the ongoing trade negotiations with the U.S. could be ignored. China kept its cards close to its chest while pushing back a tad against U.S. demands, notably when vice commerce minister Wang Shouwen said any mechanism to enforce an agreement must be two-way. That "suggests difficulties in how to word the implementation mechanism," said BNP Paribas' Chen. Former finance minister Lou Jiwei was more blunt, saying China won't make big concessions and that some U.S. demands are "just nitpicking." - Xinjiang: The meeting created a rare opportunity for officials to respond to international criticism about the Xinjiang region's notorious mass detention camps. They were unequivocal. The Muslim region will maintain them for a "long time," said government chief Shohrat Zakir, at a meeting packed with reporters, reflecting the intense scrutiny on the region. An ethnic Uighur, Zakir disputed the term "re-education centers," likening the camps instead to vocational training centers that are similar to boarding schools. "The fight against instability, extremism and secessionism is long, complex and intense," Zakir told a public question session. "We can't relax for a moment at any time." Airmen Have Five Days to Get Immunized After Vaccine Exemption Is Denied or They Face Punishment, Air Force Says The service required all active-duty troops to become fully vaccinated by Nov. 2 after Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin in... Alarming data from the Pentagon on the prevalence and prosecution of sexual assaults continue to drive advocates' efforts to push for an overhaul of the military justice system and to remove commanders from the process of deciding whether to prosecute. Testifying March 6 in support of a six-year mission by Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, to give military attorneys not commanders the say in prosecuting serious crimes such as sexual assault, murder and child pornography, victims and advocacy groups said that the current system continues to fail those who report incidents. According to retired Col. Don Christensen, former Air Force chief prosecutor and president of the Support Our Defenders advocacy group, about 8 percent of the 5,111 reports of military sexual assault in 2017 were prosecuted, with just 3 percent resulting in a conviction. "Right now, we have a system where people have no faith in the process. There's ample surveys that show that people would have more faith if independent prosecutors have this," Christensen told the Senate Armed Services Committee. Gillibrand has tried for years to pass the Military Justice Improvement Act, which is designed to place responsibility for prosecuting crimes in the hands of trained uniformed criminal lawyers. She has argued that the current system doesn't work, resulting in criminals going free and retaliation against victims. "Despite many good leaders, far too many commanders don't make it a priority to address the problem of sexual assault in the military in a meaningful way," she said. In her efforts to overhaul the system, Gillibrand has called attention to the issue, and changes have happened. For example, trained criminal investigators are now involved in pursuing any allegations of rape or sexual assault. But, she said, the changes aren't enough. "All too often, we hear from survivors that they're the ones who are punished. They're retaliated against sometimes by the chain of command, sometimes by their peers. And in too many cases, survivors are punished for collateral misconduct such as underage drinking or fraternization, while the assailant goes free," Gillibrand said. Gillibrand's arguments have been persuasive but have met opposition with Republicans and members of her own party. Former Sen. Claire McCaskill of Missouri in 2014 sponsored alternative legislation to shore up military sexual-assault investigations, but that also left responsibility within the chain of command. And during the hearing March 6, a powerful voice for the status quo, retired Air Force colonel and Sen. Martha McSally, R-Arizona, said she "strongly believed that commanders must not be removed" and have a duty to their troops to "stay at the center of the solution." McSally made her remarks after disclosing she had been raped while in the Air Force and didn't report it because she didn't trust the system. She added that, years later, her efforts to discuss the issue were dismissed. "Like many victims, I felt the system was raping me all over again," McSally said. But, she added, "There are many commanders who would welcome taking this responsibility off their plate. Those are the very commanders we don't want leading our troops." Gillibrand, an attorney, said she will reintroduce her legislation. Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Illinois, a retired lieutenant colonel in the Illinois Army National Guard, said she would support removing sexual-assault crimes from commanders' oversight but not other felony violent crimes. "This is something we struggle with. I still don't see the improvement in the UCMJ process in the military," Duckworth said. Military officials who spoke at the hearing said there is no evidence that removing commanders from their authority over serious crimes would reduce the number of incidents or result in higher conviction rates. "In my professional view, taking away a commander's decision over discipline, acts of misconduct, including the decision to prosecute crime at court-martial, [would] fundamentally compromise the readiness and lethality of our Army today and on the next battlefield," said Lt. Gen. Charles Pede, the Army Judge Advocate General. "The balance is best struck when, at every critical juncture in the process, a commander is armed with the relevant facts, including victim input and advised by a judge advocate before making a decision on the next critical step in the process," said Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Rockwell, the Air Force Judge Advocate General. "We know that good order and discipline is best when command operates and executes discipline across the entire continuum." -- Patricia Kime can be reached at Patricia.Kime@Military.com. Follow her on Twitter @patriciakime. How to use the mindat.org media viewer Click/touch this help panel to close it. Welcome to the mindat.org media viewer. Here is a quick guide to some of the options available to you. Different controls are available depending on the type of media being shown (photo, video, animation, 3d image) Controls - all media types Zoom in and out of media using your mousewheel or with a two-finger 'resize' action on a touch device. Use the mouse or your finger to drag the image or the view area of the image around the screen. < and > at the left and right hand side of the screen move forwards and backwards for the other images associated with the media you selected. Usually this is used for previous/next photo in a gallery, in an article or in search results. Keyboard shortcuts: use shift + the left and right arrow keys. < and > in the bottom center are used for switching between the photos of the same specimen. Keyboard shortcuts: use the left and right arrow keys. > in the bottom center, raises the information box giving details and further options for the media, < at the top of this box then hides it. Keyboard shortcuts: use the up and down arrow keys. ? opens this help window. Keyboard shortcuts: use the H key or the ? key. Other keyboard shortcuts: 1 Fit image to screen 2 Fill screen with image 5 Display at full resolution < Make background darker > Make background lighter space Hide/dim titles and buttons Scalebar If the field of view (FOV) is specified for the photo, the scalebar appears in the left bottom corner of the viewer. The scalebar is draggable and resizeable. Drag the right edge to resize it. Double click will reset the scalebar to it's default size and position. If the scalebar is in default position, double click will make it circular. Controls - Video Video files have a standard set of video controls: - Reset to start, - Skip back, - Play, - Pause, - Skip forwards. Keyboard shortcuts: You can stop/start video play with the P key. Controls - Animation (Spin Rotation) Animation (usually 360 degree spin rotations) have their own controls: - enable spin mode. Note that while images are loading this option will not be available but will be automatically activated when the animation has loaded. Once active you can spin the image/change the animation by moving your mouse or finger on the image left/right or by pressing the [ or ] keys. The button switches to move mode so that you can use your mouse/fingers to move the image around the screen as with other media types. The button, or the P key will start playing the animation directly, you can interrupt this by using the mouse or finger on the image to regain manual movement control. Controls - 3D Stereoscopic images If a stereoscopic 3D image is opened in the viewer, the 3D button appears in the bottom right corner giving access to "3D settings" menu. The 3D images can be viewed in several ways: - without any special equipment using cross-eyed or parallel-eyed method - with stereoscope - with anaglyph glasses. - on a suitable 3D TV or monitor (passive 3D system) For details about 3D refer to: Mindat manuals: Mindat Media Viewer: 3D To enable/disable 3D stereo display of a compatible stereo pair image press the 3 key. If the left/right images are reversed on your display (this often happens in full-screen mode) press the 4 key to reverse them. Controls - photo comparison mode If a photo with activated comparison mode is opened in the viewer, the button appears in the bottom right corner giving access to "Comparison mode settings" menu. Several layouts are supported: slider and side by-side comparison with up to 6 photos shown synchronously on the screen. On each of the compared photos a view selector is placed, e.g.: Longwave UV . It shows the name of currently selected view and allows to select a view for each placeholder. Summary of all keyboard shortcuts President Donald Trump is coming to Michigan for a March 28 rally in Grand Rapids, Trumps re-election campaign announced Friday. The rally will be at Van Andel Arena, according to the Associated Press. Michigan GOP Chair Laura Cox said she is thrilled that Trump is coming to Michigan, which helped elect the president in 2016. This visit is proof that the president is making Michigan a priority in 2020 and the Michigan Republican Party will do everything in our power to deliver our states 16 electoral votes to his re-election," Cox said in a statement. Trump visited Michigan several times during the 2016 election. His final campaign stop was held in Grand Rapids the day before voters made their decision. Trump won 75 of Michigans 83 counties in 2016. Muskegon and Kalamazoo counties were the only West Michigan counties won by Democratic Party nominee Hillary Clinton. He won Michigan by 10,704 votes, a 0.23 percent margin. Trump won Kent County, where Grand Rapids is located, with 48 percent of the vote, beating Clinton by 3 percentage points. Michigans swing for a Republican candidate reversed a history of support for Democratic presidential candidates going back to 1992. The upcoming event starts at 7 p.m. Tickets can be reserved on Trumps campaign website. The announcement came hours after after Trump vetoed a joint congressional resolution blocking his declaration of a national emergency at the southern border. It was the first veto of his presidency. ANN ARBOR, MI - Police detained some Climate Strike protesters after a sit-in Friday, March 15, at the University of Michigan Fleming Administration Building. UM police issued trespass warnings to a few of the approximately 50 people still at the administration building after 8 p.m. The protesters wanted to set a date for a public Q&A with UM President Mark Schlissel to talk about what the university is doing to address climate change. UM administrators said they would respond to the group as soon as possible. That didnt satisfy the protesters. All we want is a date to have this meeting. Were not asking for the meeting right now, Alice Elliott, a UM staff member and 2018 UM alumna, told The Ann Arbor News and MLive after about six hours of participating in the sit-in. UM spokesman Rick Fitzgerald said Schlissel was away from campus Friday and he had recently met with some of the protesters during his regular office hours. There has been one public town hall meeting with the Presidents Commission on Carbon Neutrality, Fitzgerald said, and theres another session scheduled for April 3. We appreciate the urgency our students feel regarding climate change, Fitzgerald said in a statement Friday night. President Mark Schlissel shares that sense of urgency. Initially, Liz Barry, special counsel to the UM president, and UM Dean of Students Laura Blake Jones asked the protesters to leave the Fleming Building before it closed at 5 p.m. Blake Jones said police would arrest people still in the building after it closed, according to a Facebook livestream posted by Washtenaw County Climate Strike. A UM police officer later told the protesters they could leave before 8 p.m. without issue, and after that, police would detain people and arrest anyone who could not provide ID, according to a Facebook livestream from Washtenaw County Climate Strike. Youre threatening us with violence in response to non-violence, the protesters responded. Most of the group left before the 8 p.m. deadline, and a handful of protesters who remained inside received trespass warnings and were escorted by officers out of the building. A message seeking comment was left with UM police. Ann Arbor Public Schools trustee Jeff Gaynor said he was detained by police and then released after participating in the sit-in. I was just arrested, held and released. Police caught me away from the group. They plan to arrest the remaining protestors. Posted by Jeff Gaynor on Friday, March 15, 2019 Fridays Climate Strike was part of a youth-led global movement that consisted of school walkouts and rallies calling for more action to address climate change. Hundreds of Washtenaw County middle school and high school students joined UM students for a rally on the Diag at noon. They then marched around downtown before staging the sit-in at the Fleming Administration Building. Elliott said the sit-in was a last resort after attempting to get action from UM administration through meetings, Michigan Daily articles and petitions. Weve really tried to do all the polite things that we can, she said. (The sit-in) is not super fun. Were here. We dont have a lot of food. People are tired, but we dont want to leave. It just seems like the only option at this point. I dont think we have any other way to get them to listen to us. MLive multimedia specialist Jacob Hamilton contributed to this report. A previous version of this article stated UM administrators said they would schedule a time to meet with the protesters as soon as possible. UM administrators said they would respond to the protesters as soon as possible. UPDATE: UMs Division of Public Safety and Security issued an update at 5:34 p.m. saying: There does not appear to be an active threat to the community. DPSS continues to investigate. Continue to stay clear of area. The Washtenaw County Sheriffs Office issued a similar update at 5:35 p.m. saying: There does not appear to be an active threat at UofM at this time. Reports of shots fired on campus are unfounded at this time. UofM DPSS continues to investigate and asks that you stay clear of the area. UM DPSS issued another update at 6:35 p.m. saying: There continues to be no indication of an active threat to the community. Police continue to investigate. Please stay away from Angell and Mason Halls. UM EAlert Ann Arbor Update: All Clear. Police have determined there is no threat to the community. Buildings are open. All clear. BR/> U-M DPSS (@umichdpss) March 16, 2019 Deputy UM Police Chief Melissa Overton said at about 6:40 p.m. police were still clearing buildings, where people were still hiding. There were no indications of an active danger and there were no reports of injuries. There were reports of balloons popping possibly being a cause of the scare, but police had not yet confirmed that, she said. At 7:50 p.m., DPSS stated, Police have determined there is no threat to the community. Buildings are open. All clear. UM later released a full statement on the incident. Vigil attendees, students recall false-alarm active shooter scare on UM campus ANN ARBOR, MI Amid reports of a possible active shooter on the University of Michigan campus, the university issued a run hide fight emergency alert at about 5 p.m. Saturday, March 16. Police are investigating reports of a shooter at Mason Hall, 419 S. State St., and the undergraduate library at 919 South University Ave., and a later report of a shooter possibly on the move in the State Street area. The incident unfolded following the Womens March on the UM Diag, during a post-march vigil on the Diag for those killed in Fridays mosque shootings in New Zealand. Unconfirmed reports of active shooter, UM Public Affairs tweeted at 5:19 p.m. Officers are in the area checking. Stay away from the area of Mason Hall. State Rep. Yousef Rabhi, D-Ann Arbor, said he had just spoken at the vigil when police came through and yelled something and the crowd dispersed in a panic. The crowd just all at once turned around and started running, said Rabhi, who took cover with many others, including other state lawmakers, inside the Hatcher Graduate Library. Among those with him were Sen. Jeff Irwin, D-Ann Arbor, and Rep. Donna Lasinski, D-Scio Township. I see cops outside with assault rifles and stuff, Rabhi said shortly after 5 p.m., adding he didnt hear any shots fired. Reem Khatib, a junior, 20, and Tamer Abuhalawah, 24, who graduated two years ago, were at the vigil when they heard police yell to run, but not into Mason Hall. They ran into nearby Tisch Hall, where they found a professor who let them into a room until police made them come out with their hands in the air. Everyone just started running and trampling each other, Khtaib said. I dont know. Im just scared. I cant believe its happening. Police are sweeping through campus buildings in search of a suspect and have received multiple reports of suspicious persons, including one described as a white male in a black trench coat. Mayor Christopher Taylor was on the Diag for the Womens March earlier on Saturday before the chaotic scene unfolded. Obviously we are all still gathering information, Taylor said shortly before 6 p.m. I have not heard any confirmed reports of a shooter or any confirmed reports of injuries, so it appears that we all are safe. But I am, and I am sure we all are, incredibly grateful for the brave and selfless work being done by UM DPSS, AAPD, Washtenaw Sheriff and other jurisdictions that are currently making sure that the area is secure. Ann Arbor News reporter Darcie Moran contributed to this report. UPDATE: GENESEE TWP, MI -- One person has died and one injured after a two-vehicle crash Friday afternoon in Genesee Township. Officers with the Genesee Township Police Department were called out around 6:30 p.m. March 15 to North Genesee Road and Esta Drive for a multi-vehicle. One of the drivers was pronounced dead at the scene, police said. A 25-year-old woman driving a second vehicle was transported to Hurley Medical Center for treatment. Township firefighters are blocking Genesee Road at Hillcrest Circle to the north and Winters Drive to the south. FLINT, MI -- The Flint Islamic Center is calling attacks on Muslim worshipers at mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch an outrage and awful act of extremism." In a statement issued Friday, March 15, the center said in part, "Our prayers are with the families, the victims and with law enforcement who rushed to the scene. Whether it is the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, the Tree of Life Synagogue in Philadelphia, or the Al Noor Mosque in New Zealand, these attacks on places of worship must stop. This was not an isolated incident, but a reflection of the rise of Islamophobia, white nationalism, anti-Semitism and hate in all its forms, in this current political environment. We must all stand together and call for an end to this political discourse, here in this country and around the world, which is directly breeding violence. The Associated Press reported that at least 49 people were shot to death at two mosques during midday prayers Friday most if not all of them gunned down by an immigrant-hating white supremacist who apparently used a helmet-mounted camera to broadcast live video of the slaughter on Facebook. The gunman who carried out at least one of the mosque attacks left a jumbled, 74-page manifesto that he posted on social media under the name Brenton Tarrant, identifying himself as a 28-year-old Australian and white supremacist who was out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims, the AP reported. The Flint Islamic Center was established to provide religious, educational and humanitarian services to its members, the Muslim community in the Flint area, and to advance the cause of Muslims. Heres a piece of real estate you must see to appreciate -- one that includes a runway, aircraft hangers and jet fueling stations. The Marine City Airport, located in Saint Clair Countys Cottrellville Township, is on the market with an asking sale price of $2.2 million, and while theres no airplanes included, the 69-acre property does come with lots of extras, including a flight school, heavy equipment for plowing snow and a two-story home, complete with an eight-stall horse barn. Its a unique opportunity. Airports dont come up for sale very often, (and) its not every day you just build a runway, said Korissa Wilkins, an associate broker with Kramer Commercial Realty, which listed the property for sale earlier this month. The listing comes a year after the death of Willis Manter, a pilot who purchased the airport in the early 1970s and who was chief executive officer of Manter Technologies. Randy Carlier, a certified public accountant whos handling Manters estate, said the former owner added structures to the airport over time and maintained it well, succeeding where other small airfields failed. He lived on the property, and had at least one plane of his own. There seems to be a real affection for that airport by those who use it and a handful of employees, including two Air Force veterans who work part-time as aircraft mechanics, Carlier said. Theres a lot of opportunity still there. Wilkins described the airport as a 24-7 operation with pilots regularly flying in and out of the facility and renting hanger space. The property was certified as an airport in 1942, and during World War II, it was used as a relief airport, possibly for pilot training exercises or storage, Carlier said. Wilkins said the few key employees who remain could have interest in continuing to work here if a new owner is interested. Wed like to see it continue as is, she said. Are (they) making millions a year? No. But it is covering expenses, and (there) is an opportunity to increase the business. In addition to a flight school, the property listing says the airport comes with a main maintenance hanger, a maintenance operation with tools and inventory, three metal hangers with room for 32 planes, security system and office furniture and equipment. The airport is approximately four miles from Marine City, and potentially could be used for another purpose. It is zoned for light industrial use, according to a sales brochure from Kramer. The Christchurch attacker could have killed even more people as he was on the move at the time of his arrest, and had more firearms in his car, New Zealands PM said, praising police who responded to the call in just 36 minutes. The offender was mobile, there were two other firearms in the vehicle that the offender was in, and it absolutely was his intention to continue with his attack, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told reporters in the aftermath of the gun rampage that killed 49 people in two Christchurch mosques. Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian, was apprehended 36 minutes after the first call, the prime minister revealed as she praised the two rural community policemen from Lincoln, a small town 22km southwest of Christchurch, who responded to the emergency. Dramatic footage that surfaced online after the attack shows two officers one of whom appears to be armed only with a handgun pointing their weapons at the passenger door and then forcing a black-clad man out of the vehicle. Police said Tarrant tried to evade arrest and did not surrender voluntarily. Later in the day, it emerged that he used five guns in Fridays attack, including two shotguns and two semi-automatic weapons. The man has possessed a gun license since 2017 and belonged to the local Bruce Rifle Club, and practiced shooting an AR-15 a civilian version of the US-made M-16 on its range, according to New Zealand media. Also on rt.com New Zealand PM says 'gun laws will change' after mosque shooting Tarrant seemed as normal as anyone else and had certainly never mentioned anything about his beliefs about Muslims, the clubs vice president, Scott Williams, said. Brenton just presented as a regular guy We scrutinise our members obviously, but in relation to the basic rules of the arms code and how they handle firearms and follow the rules. Tarrant is understood to have made money from investing in cryptocurrencies like bitcoin. He then used the money to fund his travels, visiting various parts of Europe and Asia. Christchurch residents including the Muslim community are mourning the victims of the attacks. On Saturday, thousands of New Zealanders held vigils and attended mosques throughout the country to support the families of those killed. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! A number of tabloid newspapers have been criticized for their coverage of Christchurch attacker Brenton Tarrant, which has been described as sympathetic and hypocritical. The outlets have been called out for fueling Islamophobia. READ MORE: Absolutely his intention: Christchurch gunman planned further attacks, had other firearms Daily Mirror The UK Daily Mirror was slammed over its front page, which featured a photo of white supremacist Brenton Tarrant as a child and described him as an angelic boy who grew into an evil far-right mass killer, sparking a deluge of anger across social media. The Mirror has treated other terrorists in quite the opposite manner, referring to them as maniacs and monsters. In the aftermath of other terrorist attacks, the newspaper usually leads with the number killed, details about the victims or a negative portrayal of the terrorists. Tarrant carried out a terrorist attack in two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, killing 49 and seriously wounding 20 others. Daily Mail The Daily Mails print front page led with Massacre shame of Facebook, detailing criticism the social media giant received for allowing Tarrant to live-stream the shooting. Its websites front page was dominated by the same image of Tarrant as a boy, with the words, How a blonde little boy turned into a far-right mass killer, while its social media said Tarrant looks like an innocent Australian child, and shared an article about his granny saying he was a good boy. Media outlets were also called out for the way they have demonized Muslims and immigrants over the years, with some accusing them of being complicit in shaping the views of white supremacists. The Daily Mail has been accused of fuelling anti-immigrant sentiment and Islamophobia. Daily Express The Daily Express front page led with a quote from Home Secretary Sajid Javid describing the attack as a hate-fuelled attack on values that unites us all. The paper has published many articles about values being under threat from Muslims, with past front page headlines including, Now Muslims demand: Give us full Sharia law and Muslim schools ban our culture. After the Manchester terrorist attack in 2017, the Express led with the following: Evil beyond belief. How could a jihadi barbarian murder our beautiful and innocent children? The Sun The Sun, a newspaper with a controversial reputation, described the killer as a maniac and a racist on its front page. After the Manchester attack, the Suns front page featured a photo of one of the child victims and the killer, described as being pure evil and led with details of vile suicide bombers secret jihadi training. It referred to Barcelona terrorists as bastards. Despite its inoffensive cover, the Sun was among those called out for spending years reporting on Muslims and immigrants as a threat. to RT newsletter to get stories the mainstream media wont tell you. The Australian government said Saturday that it has rescinded the visa of Milo Yiannopoulos for appalling comments that Canberra claims the conservative provocateur made in the wake of Fridays Christchurch mosque shooting. In a statement published by Australias immigration minister, David Coleman, the government said it would not allow UK-born Yiannopoulos to visit Australia for a tour this year. Without referencing any specific remarks, the post said Yiannopoulos comments on social media about the shooting were appalling and foment hatred and division. Coleman added that the attack, which left at least 49 Muslim worshippers dead and dozens injured, was pure evil. He reiterated Australias support to both New Zealand and Muslim communities in condemning this inhuman act. The ministers revocation comes just a week after he approved Yiannopoulos visa to enter Australia, despite concerns Yiannopoulos wouldnt pass the countrys character test. Colemans department had previously warned that Yiannopoulos could fail the test due to previous admissions of being a troll, and for an unpaid bill to Victoria Police for policing events during his last tour of Australia in 2017. Hitting back at the decision on Instagram, Yiannopoulos accused Colemans Liberal Party of betraying the fundamental Western value of free speech and for folding to pressure from the Left. Note that not a single word or phrase I used is quoted by the Australian government. To do so would reveal that I said nothing remotely objectionable, Yiannopoulos said. He added that in his initial statement, he explicitly denounced violence. The banning is the latest in a long line of misfortune to waylay the former-Breitbart editor and columnist, who claims to be $4 million dollars in debt since the cancellation of a lucrative book deal and speaking tour in 2017. Attempts to organize a magnificent 2019 comeback took a hit in December, when the crowdfunding site Patreon de-platformed him for past association with a right-wing mens group, the Proud Boys. Proud Boys founder Gavin McInnes previously failed Australias character test in November 2018. He had planned to embark on a Deplorables tour with former-English Defence League founder Tommy Robinson. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! The Washington Post has reported, citing anonymous sources, that an obscure dissident group was behind a violent break-in at the North Korean Embassy in Spain, defying reports in local media that the CIA was involved. A group of 10 unidentified men stormed into the North Korean Embassy in Madrid on February 22, several days before the summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Vietnam. According to reports in Spanish media, the attackers tied up and gagged the staff, placing hoods over their heads. They then seized documents, computers and other electronic devices before dashing away in two diplomatic vehicles they soon abandoned. While the investigation into the bizarre, brazen, action movie-style attack has been shrouded in secrecy, some shreds of information have been leaked to the Spanish media, with Spanish outlets El Pais and El Confidencial reporting that police now believe that at least two of the attackers were connected to the CIA. The reports were received with a grain of salt by the mainstream media, reported cautiously by most and outright rejected by some. Yahoo called the allegations "unlikely" while citing former CIA officials. The senior editor at the Diplomat, Akit Panda, came out in the CIA's defense on Twitter. Amid concerns that the reported raid by the CIA might drive a wedge between Washington and Madrid and derail the negotiations between North Korea and the US, already reportedly on the brink of collapse, the Washington Post reported on Friday that the operation was conducted by a "secretive dissident organization." The attackers supposedly have a video of the raid and can release it "anytime." The organization, Cheollima Civil Defense, did not claim responsibility for the incident, despite being open about its less high-profile stunts, such as defacing the North Korean Embassy in Kuala Lumpur on Monday. The Post cited people "familiar with the planning and execution of the mission" in its report, supported by opinions of several experts, including former CIA analyst Sue Mi Terry. "This is not something the CIA would undertake," she said. Also on rt.com CIA may be behind February attack on North Korean embassy in Spain reports The Washington Post gives no explanation as to why the group, also known as 'Free Joseon' decided to fight Kim by attacking the embassy in Madrid and keeping mum about it. The group, though obscure, is not one to hide its intentions, having recently published a manifesto calling on North Koreans to rise up against Pyongyang. The group also reportedly arranged the evacuation of Kim's nephew and the son of his killed half-brother Kim Jong-nam from Macau in 2017. At the time, the group worked in coordination with the US, Chinese, and Dutch governments, it told the Wall Street Journal. Shortly after the Washington Post's scoop came out, Washington Examiner columnist Tom Rogan heaped scorn on El Pais for reporting the alleged CIA link in the first place and blamed Russia. "Perhaps the Russians told them [El Pais] the CIA was involved," Rogan wrote, providing no evidence apart from calling El Pais an "anti-American newspaper." However, the Washington Post is now also taking some heat on Twitter for being CIA-apologists. Like this story? Share it with a friend! Australian-born Brenton Tarrant has been formally charged with murder in a shooting rampage that left 49 people dead in two New Zealand mosques. Police said more charges will be filed against him. Three more people are in custody. Brenton Harrison Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian man, was charged with murder over the Christchurch massacre during a brief court appearance on Saturday. He did not request bail and was ordered to remain in custody until the date of his next hearing, scheduled for April 5. READ MORE: New Zealand PM says 'gun laws will change' after mosque shooting The investigation is led by New Zealand police and assisted by Australian police in New South Wales. NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Mick Willing told media that the region's joint counterterrorism unit has joined the investigation. Tarrant's relatives have been assisting the police as well. Tarrant was escorted to a heavily-guarded courtroom under unprecedented security measures as agitated people flocked to the Christchurch District Court, even though it was closed to the public and only accredited media members were allowed in. Also on rt.com Victims screamed for help as gunman live-streamed attack on NZ mosque, gruesome video shows There were calls by some people from the crowd to lynch Tarrant before the hearing. Just as he was about to be brought into court, one person wielding a knife attempted to enter the courtroom, New Zealand Herald reported. The man reportedly told the paper that he wanted to stab the suspect. What the f*** has happened here, he told reporters. Another man was cited shouting rot in f****** hell as he drove by the courthouse. Tarrant reportedly hails from the town of Grafton, in northeastern New South Wales, but has been living in Dunedin, New Zealand, for quite some time, according to the reports in the local media. While in Australia, he worked as a personal trainer at a local gym in Grafton from 2009 to 2011, ABC reported. READ MORE: New Zealand mosque shooter cites Candace Owens as inspiration for attacks He is alleged to have penned a 74-page manifesto, titled "The Great Replacement" where he delves into what had inspired him to carry out the shootings and vows "revenge" against Muslim "invaders." The manifesto was reportedly written two weeks before the attacks. Tarrant also livestreamed his rampage online on Facebook. The footage in which he goes from room to room gunning down worshippers was promptly taken down on police request. The manifesto suggests Tarrant harbors neo-fascist beliefs and draws inspired from other infamous shooters and conquerors of the past. His weapons bore neo-Nazi inscriptions and slogans, names of extremists, as well as historic figures who waged wars against Muslims. Forty-nine people died in the Al Noor mosque and the Linwood mosque and over 40 were injured, some critically. In the wake of the attack, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern proposed an overhaul of the gun laws banning semi-automatic rifles. The suspected shooter held the "category A" firearms license since 2007. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! The New Zealand government is looking at banning semi-automatic weapons following the killing of 49 worshipers at two Christchurch mosques, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said. The suspected attacker had bought five guns legally. The primary suspect was an Australian citizen who travelled sporadically to New Zealand and stayed for varied amount of time, Ardern told reporters. I would not describe him as a long-term resident. He was not on a government watch list in either New Zealand or Australia. Also on rt.com New Zealand mosque attacks: How Christchurch massacre unfolded All of the suspected shooters five weapons were legally acquired, according to the PM. Our gun laws will change. The suspected gunman got a category A firearms license in 2017, and began stockpiling weapons legally at that point, Ardern told reporters on Saturday. The mere fact that this happened means people will want to see a change to gun laws, and she was committed to supporting that, she added. The shooting was live-streamed on Facebook, with the suspect killing 49 people and wounding more than 40 at two mosques before getting arrested by police. Shortly before the attack, he published a 73-page manifesto in which he vowed revenge against Muslim invaders and said he was inspired by Anders Breivik, who killed 77 people in Norway in 2011. Most of the victims were at the Al Noor mosque, as the attacker was reportedly chased out of the Linwood mosque by a "well known Muslim local" who fired two shots in pursuit, according to the New Zealand Herald. The Herald later quoted one of the witnesses from Lindwood, Syed Mazharuddin, who said that the gunman was confronted by a mosque caretaker, who wrestled one of his guns away but did not shoot because he "couldn't find the trigger." Currently, New Zealand restricts the purchase of military-style semi-automatic weapons to those 18 or older. The minimum legal age to buy a firearm is 16. Anyone the police consider to be fit and proper can get a firearms license provided they pass a background check involving criminal and medical records. Registration of individual weapons is not required. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! OPEC is ready to produce at full capacity if the NOPEC (No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels Act) bill is passed in Washington, an action that would likely kill the cash intensive US shale industry. The oil minister of the UAE, Suhail al-Mazrouei, reportedly told lenders at the meeting that if the bill was made into law that made OPEC members liable to US anti-cartel legislation, the group, which is to all intents and purposes indeed a cartel, would break up and every member would boost production to its maximum. This would be a repeat of what happened in 2013 and 2014, and ultimately led to another oil price crash like the one that saw Brent crude and WTI sink below US$30 a barrel. As a result, a lot of US shale-focused, debt-dependent producers would go under. Also on rt.com Venezuela electricity crisis may challenge global oil market IEA Bankers who provide the debt financing that shale producers need are the natural target for opponents of the NOPEC bill. Banks got burned during the 2014 crisis and are still recovering and regaining their trust in the industry. Purse strings are being loosened as WTI climbs closer to US$60 a barrel, but lenders are certainly aware that this is to a large extent the result of OPEC action: the cartel is cutting production again and the effect on prices is becoming increasingly visible. Indeed, if OPEC starts pumping again at maximum capacity, even without Iran and Venezuela, and with continued outages in Libya, it would pressure prices significantly, especially if Russia joins in. After all, its state oil companies have been itching to start pumping more. The NOPEC legislation has little chance of becoming a law. It is not the first attempt by US legislators to make OPEC liable for its cartel behavior, and none of the others made it to a law. However, Al-Mazroueis not too subtle threat highlights the weakest point of US shale: the industrys dependence on borrowed money. Also on rt.com Russia aims to reach OPEC+ production cut quota by end-March The issue was analyzed in depth by energy expert Philip Verleger in an Oilprice story earlier this month and what the problem boils down to is too much debt. Shale, as Totals chief executive put it in a 2018 interview with Bloomberg, is very capital-intensive. The returns can be appealing if youre drilling and fracking in a sweet spot in the shale patch. They can also be improved by making everything more efficient but ultimately youd need quite a lot of cash to continue drilling and fracking, despite all the praise about the decline in production costs across shale plays. The fact that a lot of this cash could come only from banks has been highlighted before: the shale oil and gas industry faced a crisis of investor confidence after the 2014 crash because the only way it knew how to do business was to pump ever-increasing amounts of oil and gas. Shareholder returns were not top of the agenda. This had to change after the crash and most of the smaller playersthose that survivedhave yet to fully recover. Free cash remains a luxury. Also on rt.com BP boss Dudley says US shale is 'a market without a brain The industry is aware of this vulnerability. The American Petroleum Institute has vocally opposed NOPEC, almost as vocally as OPEC itself, and BPs Bob Dudley said this week at CERAWeek in Houston that NOPEC could have severe unintended consequences if it unleashed litigation around the world. Severe unintended consequences is not a phrase bankers like to hear. Chances are they will join in the opposition to the legislation to keep shales wheels turning. The industry, meanwhile, might want to consider ways to reduce its reliance on borrowed money, perhaps by capping production at some point before it becomes forced to do it. This article was originally published on Oilprice.com After a gunman cut down 49 worshippers at two New Zealand mosques, multiple commentators have blamed US President Donald Trump for the violence. Trump himself has condemned the killings. We hold you responsible for this growing anti-Muslim sentiment in the country and in Europe, Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) leader Nihad Awad said at a press conference on Friday. The perpetrator of this terrorist attack has been inspired by hate-mongers in the United States and in Europe, he added. The perpetrator of this horrific and terrorist attack today referenced President Trump in his manifesto. Alleged perpetrator Brenton Tarrant live-streamed his shooting rampage on Facebook, and can be seen stalking from room to room, executing Muslims in their place of worship. Before his killing spree began, Tarrant reportedly released a rambling 70-page manifesto, blending internet memes with calls for a race war between whites and Muslim invaders. Tarrant mentioned Trump by name, calling him a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose, but rubbishing his abilities as a policy maker and leader. Trump condemned the attacks, offering warmest sympathy and best wishes to the people of New Zealand, but downplayed the idea that white supremacy is a growing threat worldwide. New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez accused Trump of hostility to Muslim people, for his controversial travel ban, while Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal told CNN that Trump's anti-immigrant rhetoric was "a factor" in Tarrant's attack. CNN contributor Dan Pfeiffer said that Trump had enabled and empowered white nationalism, while a host of commentators and celebrities roasted the president for not coming out strongly enough against white supremacy. Trump has faced similar criticism before, most notably for his muted response to white nationalist protests in Charlottesville, Virginia in 2017. The Charlottesville rally made headlines after self-described white supremacist James Alex Fields Jr. plowed his car into a crowd of left-wing protesters, killing one. In his manifesto, Tarrant explicitly stated that he wanted to bait the American left and right into attacking each other. However, some commentators werent falling for the ruse. Others blasted CAIR for using massacres to try and settle personal vendettas. Tarrants manifesto was littered with internet memes and in-jokes from claims of being radicalized by black conservative activist Candace Owens to the internet-famous Navy Seal copypasta meme and reference to YouTube star PewDiePie. He also mentioned Spyro the dragon" and "Fortnite" as inspiration for acts of violence, although in a mocking tone. Like this story? Share it with a friend! Americas trade war resulted in $7.8 billion in losses for the nations economy, while the subsequent higher costs of imports took more than $68 billion from consumers and producers, economists at leading US universities found. Imports from targeted countries declined 31.5 percent, while targeted US exports fell by 11 percent, the evaluation of the short-term impact of trade conflicts with partners across the globe has shown. The findings were presented in a study titled The Return to Protectionism, written by researchers from Yale, Columbia, UCLA, and the University of California, Berkeley. The paper was published by the National Bureau of Economic Research earlier in March. Also on rt.com China wont use yuan exchange rate as a trade-war tool central bank chief While $7.8 billion is a relatively small figure for the countrys whole economy, amounting to 0.04 percent of GDP, the authors note that American consumers bear the incidence of the tariff. Annual consumer and producer losses from the higher costs of imports totaled $68.8 billion, or 0.37 percent of GDP. Republican counties bore the largest cost of the full war While all but 30 counties experience a reduction in tradeable real income, Trumps actions surprisingly brought the largest losses to GOP counties, according to the research. The authors said the tariff fight relatively favored tradeable workers in Democratic-leaning counties, where Trumps share of the 2016 presidential vote was around 35 percent. However, workers in Republican counties with vote shares between 85-95 percent bore the largest cost of the full war. The losses in those areas are 58 percent larger than in heavily Democratic counties. Also on rt.com US trade deficit soars to decade high of $621 billion despite Trump pledge to bridge the gap We find that tradeable-sector workers in heavily Republican counties were the most negatively affected by the trade war, the economists concluded. Last year, the Trump administration imposed unilateral tariff increases to combat what the US leader calls unfair trade practices by China, the European Union, and other trade partners. The move was met with tit-for-tat measures, including from Beijing, with which the US has been trying to ink a trade deal during lengthy talks. The standoff with China has already resulted in duties on $250 billion in Chinese imports, while China retaliated with levies on $110 billion in US goods. READ MORE: Trump will delay increase in tariffs on Chinese goods after substantial progress in trade talks Washington also applied levies of 25 percent on imports of steel and 10 percent on aluminum from the EU, Canada, and Mexico. Brussels responded with duties of 25 percent, including on Harley-Davidson motorcycles, bourbon, peanuts, blue jeans, steel, and aluminum. For more stories on economy & finance visit RT's business section The Russian Foreign Ministry has vowed to retaliate to the new economic sanctions rolled out by Washington and Ottawa over the November showdown near the shores of Crimea. The Foreign Ministry has called "groundless" the allegations by the US and Canadian governments that Russia was the aggressor in the November 25 incident in the Black Sea, when three Ukrainian warships sailed into Russian territorial waters. Also on rt.com US imposes fresh sanctions on Russia over Kerch Strait standoff Moscow said that the Ukrainian vessels had not obtained proper permits to cross the strait and ignored repeated warnings by the Russian coast guard to stop when they entered Russian waters near Crimea. Three Ukrainian sailors were injured in the standoff, and a total of 24 Ukrainian personnel were detained and put on trial for violating Russian borders. The ships were later found to be armed and reportedly intended to cross the waterway that separates mainland Russia from Crimea in a "stealthy" manner. READ MORE: Russian businessman Deripaska sues US over devastating power of sanctions On Friday, Washington imposed sanctions on six businessmen and politicians, and eight enterprises, while Ottawa slapped economic restrictions on 114 individuals and 15 entities. The Foreign Ministry specifically took aim at Canada for racing to keep up with the US' Russia-bashing. "It seems that from a normal logic standpoint, it would be more important for [Canadian Prime Minister Justin] Trudeau's team to concentrate on resolving rather complex problems at home, than play its 'Russophobia card' in vain." Both US and Canada continue to follow a "perilous course" aimed at a "total destruction" of relations with Russia, already at rock bottom due to the "unhinged Russophobia that has engulfed Washington and Ottawa," the ministry said. Moscow has vowed to mount a "practical response" to the new sanctions. Shipyards based in St. Petersburg and Crimea, and Russian officials that responded to the incident in the Kerch Strait are among those included in Washington's black list. Canada also targeted prominent Russian politicians and business executives, such as the head of Russian oil giant Rosneft, Igor Sechin, and the head of the National Guard, Victor Zolotov. Russian aluminum tycoon Oleg Deripaska, who was sanctioned by the US last year, is meanwhile taking the US government to court, arguing that the restrictions are based "on false rumor and innuendo" and violate the US Constitution. Deripaska was forced to lower his stake in aluminum giant Rusal to spare it from sanctions, but sanctions targeting him personally remain in place. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! File image Minister of Home Affairs Rajnath Singh is confident that China will allow the bid in the United Nations (UN) Security Council to designate Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's chief Masood Azhar as a "global terrorist after blocking such a bid for the fourth time on technical grounds. In an exclusive interview with Rahul Joshi MD, TV18 and Network18, Singh said,I do not believe that this is a diplomatic failure," adding that he is confident that China will fall in line. India will never be disheartened, we will continue to have talks with China, he said, adding that there must be some reason for China to have taken this decision. Every country has some compulsion. If for this reason that we break our relations with China, it will not be right, he said. Singh aired his views on several of the issues making the headlines, ranging from the upcoming general elections to the recent tensions between India and Pakistan. On the current talks between India and Pakistan, Singh said that terrorism and negotiation can not go together. Pakistan should stop terrorist activities, only then we can have a conversation. We will not let terrorism flourish on its soil, and will take effective action, he said. When asked about Prime Minister Narendra Modis and his own choice to contest the elections, he said, Modi ji will contest from Varanasi and I will definitely fight from Lucknow. On the entry of Priyanka Gandhi into active politics, Singh said, There will be no special difference from her arrival as many people keep coming to politics all the time. On the politicisation of the Balakot Air Strike, he said, Why are the leaders of India in such a shock? It is unfortunate that questions on the air strikes are asked. When an Indian asks the number of casualties from these strikes, then he is questioning the bravery of the army, he said. One can tune in to CNN News18 and other News 18 regional channels tonight at 9pm for the complete interview. : Network18 is the parent company of TV18 Broadcast and Network18 Digital that publishes Moneycontrol. Representative Image Rajiv Ranjan Singh Britain's parliament rejected PM Theresa May's deal to quit the European Union for a second time last week, deepening the country's worst political crisis for generations. There is considerable uncertainty about Brexit as the Prime Minister has only 17 days before the planned departure date. Leaving without a deal is theoretically possible, however, on March 14, the UK Parliament approved a vote against leaving the EU without a Brexit deal, thus authorising the Prime Minister to seek an extension for the date of withdrawal. This provides additional time to work out a deal, though the EU's stated position is against any renegotiation. Whatever may be the outcome, it has also been proposed that the extension cannot stretch beyond the end of May 2019 when elections for the European Parliament are due. Impact on India: Historically, India has had strong ties with the UK with the current ones being both on the trade and investment front. The UK is home to a strong South Asian community and has been an attractive center of business due to its strong legal system and contract enforcement regime. India is one of the top investors with the UK; on account of the UK being part of the European Union. With its strong investment climate and relationship with the EU, it was considered the gateway to do business in Europe. With Britain exiting the European Union, it is likely that many Indian companies with a base in the UK may not have the same free access to the continent they did before, which means they may face higher logistic costs via customs duty and other charges. Additionally, there may be a possibility of free movement of goods, capital, services, and labour between UK and EU getting hindered. Indian companies like Rolta, Tata Steel, Bharti Airtel Ltd (UK) among others have set up operations in the UK which is a major source of revenue from European operations. A no-deal Brexit is likely to cause some disruption in the operations and may also cost a few jobs. Jaguar Land Rover Plc, owned by Tata Motors plans to eliminate 4,500 jobs as a response to sales slowdown caused by Brexit. Indian companies would need to reconfigure European operations, like setting up an additional operating company within the European Union. This means that a short term disruption will not only have a huge financial impact but also take up management time and translate into long-run effects. Similarly, Indian companies looking to raise capital abroad that have used London as their base may face issues and may need to work harder on the process, but this would be a comparatively minor challenge. Although this risk has been around for a while, Indian investments witnessed a peak in 2017 at the highest level since 2008. In our opinion, they were partly driven by pound depreciation against the rupee post the Brexit vote. In the same year, India exported 85 Euro billion worth of goods as the Eurozone has been a large trading partner for India. Going forward, Indian companies will possibly focus on their M&A deal efforts across Europe while tackling the British market and rework the under negotiation Free Trade agreement with the EU. India would also need to negotiate a free trade deal with the UK as it proposed retaining the same goods and services schedules post Brexit. The concessions agreed by WTO members pre Brexit may not hold the same value once Brexit happens. All the additional costs and tariffs agreed upon may need to be rescheduled. India exports around $9.6 billion to the UK. Though there may be other factors, looming Brexit may have been a factor why the trade surplus of $4.6 billion in 2017 almost dropped by half to $2.5 billion in 2018. Last but not least, let's talk about the immigrant situation - be it students or workers. The UK has been a magnet for immigrants, free access of EU workers to the UK was a major reason for the vote in favour of an exit. Owing to the large number of immigrants from the EU, and the UK has restricted immigrants from other parts of the world, which had an impact on Indians. However, post-Brexit, immigration into the UK of Indians may not become easier as the UK wants to place quantitative restrictions on a total number of immigrants. The UK has also attracted a number of students from India in the past. In a hard Brexit scenario, visa procedures for students travelling between EU and UK may become stringent and the processing fee is likely to be raised. At the same time, Indian students travelling to the UK or EU exclusively may not have much of an impact (may not be the same for EU students wanting to study in the UK). Post studies, Indian students may still find it hard to find jobs in the UK for the reasons outlined above. However, in order to sustain tourism based inflow of investments, the UK may ease visa procedures for business travellers as well as for tourists. Besides, since the GBP may face depreciation post Brexit, the UK may turn out to be a cheaper destination for vacationers. The author is CEO of Stock Broking, Karvy. The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts on moneycontrol.com are his own, and not that of the website or its management. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. A blockbuster week for India markets as Sensex and Nifty50 surpassed their crucial resistance levels and closed with hefty gains for the week ended March 15. The S&P BSE Sensex rallied by 1,353 points or 3.69 percent while the Nifty50 rose 3.5 percent in just 5 trading sessions. The S&P BSE Sensex closed above 38,000 for the first time since September 14, 2018, while the Nifty50 also reclaimed 11,400 for the first time since September 18, 2018, and is all set to hit higher target towards 11,500 levels. "Benchmark indices ended this week on a strong note with Nifty closing above 11400 levels. Sensex reclaimed 38,000 levels led by a rally in banking stocks. Strong Global cues and aggressive buying from foreign investors are some triggers that led to positive market sentiments," Hemang Jani, Head - Advisory, Sharekhan by BNP Paribas told Moneycontrol. The benchmark indices outperformed the broader market in the week gone by as the S&P BSE Mid-cap index rose 2.4 percent while the S&P BSE Small-cap index was up 2.1 percent for the week ended March 15. Among the top 500 companies, as many as 32 companies in the S&P BSE 500 index witnessed a rally of about 10-20 percent which includes names like DLF, Finolex Cables, IDFC, Jubilant Life Sciences, Adani Transmission, Allcargo Logistics. In the S&P BSE Mid-cap index, as many as five stocks rose 10-20 percent which include names like NLC India, Adani Transmission, NBCC India, Edelweiss Financial Services, and IIFL Holdings. In the S&P BSE Small-cap index, as many as 69 companies rose 10-40 percent in just five days which include names like Indosolar, ABG Shipyard, Orchid Pharma, The Byke Hospitality, Indo Count Industries, and IIFL Holdings. One sector which really stood out was the Banking index. The NiftyBank closed 1.58 percent higher or 458 points at 29,381. It hit a record high of 29,520.70. Banking stocks gained the most, led by State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, Bank of Baroda, ICICI Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, and IndusInd Bank. "Banking pack is leading from the front on the expected lines while others are playing a supportive part on a rotational basis," Jayant Manglik, President - Retail Distribution, Religare Broking told Moneycontrol. Technical Outlook: The Nifty50 formed a bull candle which resembles a Shooting Star kind of formation which still needs confirmation. A bearish candle on March 18's sessions would suggest that the momentum is waning. The Nifty as per weekly timeframe has witnessed a sharp upside breakout of larger range bound movement at 11K mark, with a formation of the long bull weekly candle. The near-term uptrend of Nifty remains intact, but after a sharp rally, we could see some consolidation. The next immediate resistance level to watch out is 11,500 levels. "Having moved up sharply recently, there is a possibility of a minor downward correction in the next week, but the expected weakness is unlikely to damage the uptrend status of the market. Immediate resistance to be watched for next week at 11,520 levels," Nagaraj Shetti - Technical Research Analyst, HDFC Securities said in a note. On the Options front, maximum Put OI is placed at 11000 followed by 11,200 strikes while maximum Call OI is placed at 11,500 followed by 11,400 strikes. Meaningful Put writing is seen at 11,400 followed by 11,500 strikes while Call writing is seen at 11,700 strikes. Option band signifies a shift in a higher trading range in between 11,300 to 11,600 zones. Bank Nifty hit a fresh lifetime high of 29,520 mark and managed to hold above 29,000 zones towards the close which is a bullish sign. "Bank Nifty has been making higher-highs higher-lows from past five trading sessions which indicates bullish momentum. It formed a Bullish Candle on daily as well as weekly scale," Chandan Taparia, Associate Vice President, Analyst-Derivatives, Motilal Oswal Financial Services told Moneycontrol. "Now it has to continue to hold above 28,888-29,000 zones to extend its momentum towards new lifetime high of 29,700 zones while on the downside major support exists at 29,000 zones," he said. : The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts 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. As the Indian business media is abuzz with Mindtree takeover by L&T, airlines crisis and Essar Steel insolvency process, there are far greater issues that took shook the world last week the New Zealand terror attack that killed 49 and social media played a major role. This obviously is not an isolated incident, at least not in India. Of late, social media is being used as a platform for spreading hate. There have been numerous instances where social media, messaging platform WhatsApp in particular, has been responsible for inciting violence and in many cases death. Recently after the Pulwama attack, Karachi Bakery in Bengaluru was attacked just for having the name Karachi, similar to the name a city in Pakistan. The owners had to cover up the name and send out a statement explaining that the bakery was started by Khanchand Ramnani and was indeed an Indian company. It had nothing to do with Pakistan, the statement emphasised. With elections looming, there is a palpable fear that there could be more violence and there is not enough done about it by the technology majors. Yes, I know. It is not a genius discovery. For a fact to be so well known and yet so little being done about it seriously says a lot about how we are tackling these issues. But if there is any good time to actually do something about it, it is now. In the New Zealand terror attack on March 15 on two mosques that killed 49 people and injured 20, the 28-year-old Australian perpetrator Brenton Tarrant posted his intentions online the previous day of the attack. According to the report by The Atlantic, prior to the attack, Tarrant posted links to a 74-page manifesto The Great Replacement that blamed immigrants for displacement of whites in Oceania and elsewhere on Twitter and anonymous-troll message board 8chan. He also did a live stream of one of the attacks on Facebook. One would have thought that the social media majors Facebook and Twitter would take notice and take it down sooner. But that was not what happened. Facebook pulled down Tarrant's profiles and the video, but only after New Zealand police brought the live stream to the company's attention. This is the platform that blocks users for political commentary without giving them a reason. If they do, it is probably along the lines that the post has violated Facebook's policy (mostly useless going by the seriousness of the issue). Twitter too took its time to suspend Tarrant's account. You would do well to remember that recently Twitter suspended journalist Barkha Dutt's account after she posted her account of online sexual abuse, including the picture of penis that was sent to her, because it violated Twitter's policy. For all the swiftness, the damage was already done by the time the world took notice. It makes one think that these technology giants has misplaced priorities. Coming back to India, not a day goes by when my WhatsApp feed has at least one or two of right-wing extremist messages under the cloak of nationalism. With elections approaching the rate at which polarised messages are being forwarded has only increased. In India, WhatsApp has sort of become a breeding ground for such messages despite the number of forwards restricted to five. Now we have Chinese social media apps such as TikTok, which has a large regional population and are being used to spread hatred and fake news. With millions of users on these platforms posting millions of messages, what can the government or social media platform possibly do? Where does onus fall? Technology majors, of course, have a big part to play. It made the spread of hate message a lot faster in the connected world. They need to do a lot more than put a restriction on the number of forwards. But until then, if I may borrow the quote from The Atlantic , the internet is a Pandora's box that never had a lid. It is may be too late and probably impossible to force it to close down. Representative image A number of members of the US Congress raised with Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale the issue of India signing a deal with Russia for a nuclear submarine last week, official sources said on March 16. Gokhale clarified that India finalised the deal for leasing of a nuclear-powered attack submarine from Russia and it was not an acquisition or a purchase, they said. However, the issue was not raised by the US administration during Gokhale's three-day visit to Washington earlier this week. Some members of the Congress raised the issue as they have some mis-perception about it, the sources said, adding Gokhale also explained to them that the submarine will only have conventional weapons. In January, the US announced sanctions against Russia under which Washington can punish countries and entities engaged in transaction with defence or intelligence establishment of Russia. The sanctions were imposed for Moscow's alleged meddling in the US presidential election in 2016. On March 7, India sealed a USD 3 billion deal with Russia for leasing of a nuclear-powered attack submarine for the Indian Navy for a period of 10 years. In October last year, India inked an agreement with Russia to procure a batch of the missile systems at a cost of Rs 40,000 crore. India went ahead with the deal notwithstanding the US's warnings against it. Under the deal for submarine, Russia will have to deliver an Akula class submarine, to be known as Chakra III, to the Indian Navy by 2025. It will be the third Russian submarine to be leased to the Indian Navy. The first Russian nuclear-powered submarine -- christened INS Chakra -- was taken in 1988 under a three-year lease. A second INS Chakra was taken on lease in 2012 for a period of 10 years. Congress in Telangana on March 16 said it planned to meet the Governor E S L Narasimhan over the ruling TRS allegedly encouraging defections of its MLAs and that it would also stage agitations over the issue. The party said it plans to meet the Governor on March 18. Senior leader and former Union Law Minister Veerappa Moily would visit the city to assess the situation, Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader M Bhatti Vikrarmarka said. The party would tour the state over the alleged defections and meet leaders of various political parties in the country, he said. Congress would also meet the President over the issue, he said. The Congress' campaign against the alleged defections came following the decision of six party MLAs to leave the party and join the ruling TRS. Speculation is rife that some more Congress MLAs may switch sides. The defections are against the principles of democracy, Vikramarka said. "The oath taken as Chief Minister to rule as per the Constitution has been given a go by," he told reporters on Saturday. Congress had earlier alleged that the TRS was undermining democracy by encouraging defection of its MLAs. The TRS, however, has referred to instances of public representatives joining the Congress and asked if that too was a "purchase". Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on March 16 said if party colleague Digvijaya Singh wants to contest upcoming Lok Sabha polls, he should choose the "toughest seat" in the state. While Nath did not mention any seat in particular, he said there were "2-3-4 seats" in MP which the Congress had not won in the past "30-35" years. Singh, a former chief minister and multiple times Lok Sabha MP, is currently a Rajya Sabha member. "I have requested Digvijaya Singh that if he wants to contest Lok Sabha polls, then he should do so from the toughest seat. There are 2-3-4 seats from where we have not won elections since the last 30-35 years," Nath told reporters here. Congress functionaries said he may have been referring to Bhopal and Indore Lok Sabha seats, both of which have been held by the BJP since 1989. Congress sources said Nath is keen that Singh contest from Bhopal. Former President late Shankar Dayal Sharma was the last Congress winner from the seat in the 1984 general elections. Nath, in reply to a query, however, said it was for Singh to decide from where he wants to contest. He also added that the Congress would announce Lok Sabha candidates from the state in the next three-four days. Nath arrived in Chhindwara on a two-day visit to address 11 rallies, with his son Nakul Nath, in all likelihood, being the Congress' Lok Sabha candidate. Nath, who is a nine-time MP from Chhindwara, is fighting an Assembly bypoll from here scheduled for April 23. Nath has to get elected to the MP Assembly in order to continue as chief minister. The Chhindwara Assembly seat was vacated by Dipak Saxena, who had won it in the 2018 state polls, so that Nath could get an entry into the 230-member House. The Trump administration is now focused on pressing Pakistan to take "sustained and irreversible" actions against terrorist groups operating from its soil, a senior American diplomat has said. Recently, tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district in February 14. A senior State Department official said on March 15 that the US stood "publicly and resolutely" with India in its response to the attack. "Now we are focused on pressing Pakistan to take sustained, irreversible action on terrorist groups operating on its soil, and we are working with others in the international community to achieve this goal," the official said. "The United States stood publicly and resolutely with India in its response to the attack, as you saw in our statements, while joining the international community in encouraging both sides to avoid military escalation, de-escalate tensions and communicate directly," he said. In the aftermath of the Pulwama attack, the United States has not only supported India's right to self-defence, but also has been building sustained pressure on Pakistan to take action against terrorist groups. Earlier in the day, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told Fox News that Pakistan has to stop harbouring terrorists. "We saw what happened with India, the conflict that arose there as a result of terrorists that departed from Pakistan. We need Pakistanis to step up. They need to stop harbouring terrorists," he said. Pompeo had played a key role in de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan after Indian jets carried out air strikes at terrorist training camps of JeM in Balakot. Senior officials who are part of the de-escalation efforts in South Asia believe that this is only possible as long as there is no terrorist attack inside India coming from Pakistan. The recent talks between India and Pakistan on Kartarpur corridor is considered as a positive development in the US. The US officials believe that both Islamabad and New Delhi have shown seriousness in de-escalating the tensions. At the same time, they believe that the onus for this largely lies on Pakistan. If Pakistan continues with its age-old policy of supporting terrorist groups, the Trump administration may look into other options which could range from selective visa ban, revoking its non-NATO ally status and even cutting civilian aid to Pakistan. Since January 2018, US President Donald Trump has stopped all security assistance to Pakistan. It is understood that the focus for the Trump administration is not on any punitive action against Pakistan, but to convince its leadership including Prime Minister Imran Khan and Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa that it is in their interest to take sustained and irreversible actions against terrorist groups, the official said. The focus right now is to convince Pakistan that it is not in its interest to be isolated from the international community and it is in its interest to maintaining stable relationship with India, he said. Post Balakot, Pakistan has been told time and again that the reason that the situation is fragile in South Asia because of cross border terrorism, he said. In the wake of the Pulwama terror attack, India launched a major diplomatic offensive against Pakistan, holding briefing for envoys of 25 countries, including those from the five permanent UNSC members -- the US, China, Russia, the UK and France -- to highlight Islamabad's role in using terrorism as an instrument of state policy. There are perhaps few thoughts as terrifying as being on a plane thats making a beeline for the ground. Or the ocean. Or particularly, a building in the middle of a major city. Your death is almost guaranteed. And its completely out of your control. All you can do is sit down, buckle up and accept it. Its no wonder that aerophobia affects as many as one in three people. So far, hundreds of thousands of people have been killed in plane crashes globally. Theyve claimed the lives of Buddy Holly, John F Kennedy Jr and Otis Redding. And although the numbers are slowly declining, going from 3,346 global airline deaths in 1972 to 101 deaths in 2017, theres clearly still room for improvement. Just last week, the passengers aboard a Boeing 737 MAX 8 flight to Nairobi experienced the nightmare we all dread, as due to an auto-pilot malfunction, the plane nosedived six minutes into the flight, killing all 157 people aboard. This is the second disaster of this nature, coming after the Boeing 737 crash in Jakarta back in October 2017. In an eerily similar case, the plane nosedived into the ocean just minutes after take-off, killing all 198 passengers on board. In what seems to indicate a deep programming flaw, the pilots of both planes also reported problems with the auto-pilot system and asked to make an emergency landing. As a result, on Thursday, Donald Trump joined the United Kingdom, European Union, China, Australia, India and 40 other countries with his decision to ground the fleet of Boeings 737 MAX airplanes. He issued an emergency order to ground all 737 planes in the US until further notice, telling reporters: They [Boeing] have to find the problemand they will find it. Surprisingly, the plane is a new model, having just been released in November 2018. And although there are yet to be any conclusive findings, it looks as if there is a programming fault that prevents pilots from regaining control of the airplane. Since the groundings, US$25 billion has been wiped off Boeings market value, and their shares have dropped nearly 6.9% in Wednesdays trading. And although the company has maintained that the 737 planes are safe, they supported the decision to ground, stating: Boeing has determined out of an abundance of caution and in order to reassure the flying public of the aircrafts safety to recommend to the FAA the temporary suspension of operations of the entire global fleet of 371 737 MAX aircraft. Regardless, the tragedies have sparked renewed debate about how we can prevent these gruesome disasters from happening in the future. And whether or not airplanes have reached their peak potential when it comes to safety and efficiency. How can we make tragedy a thing of the past? While the Boeing disaster is somewhat of an anomaly, theres no reason it shouldnt spark debate about how planes can be improved upon overall. According to the Bureau of Aircraft Accident Archives, in 2018, plane crash deaths jumped sharply to reach 1,040 almost triple that of 2017. And when it comes to Boeing, the worlds largest plane maker, two crashes in five months shouldnt be in the headlines in 2019. Its worth noting that weve already come incredibly far when it comes to flying technology. As I, like most people, know next to nothing about aerodynamics, my overriding thought when Im on an 80,000kg steel airplane gliding effortlessly through the air is that this shouldnt work. It defies belief that weve cracked the code of gravity. And it truly is a testament to our species. But this by no means indicates that weve reached our full flying potential. Thanks to the push towards renewable, environmentally friendly energy sources, and a move away from traditional forms of energy like coal, the electric transportation market is booming. Elon Musk for one (unsurprisingly), has been contemplating how an electric plane could work. As he alluded to on the Joe Rogan Experience, he has been designing a battery-powered electronic super jet that could be the way of the future: The exciting thing to do would be some sort of electric vertical takeoff and landing supersonic jet of some kindThe trick is you have to transition to level flightand the thing that you would use for vertical takeoff and landing is not suitable for high speed flight. Ive thought about this quite a lot. Clearly this is an idea still in the works. But as a proponent for sustainable energy, Musk is incredulous that companies continue to rely on fossil fuels for energy and is fast working towards a complete eradication: Were taking vast amounts of carbon from deep underground and putting this in the atmosphere this is crazyWe should not do this. Its very dangerous. We should accelerate the transition to sustainable energy. Now, we dont know exactly what Musk has in mind to power this new jet. But we can take an educated guess. Source: Proactive Investors Australia [Click to open new window] The silvery flakes pictured above are a new form of battery fuel that can charge an electric car in seconds, and keep it running for thousands of kilometres. Theres no doubt Musk has looked into this for his Tesla vehicles, and when it comes to a lightweight, efficient fuel for electric jets, this marvel of chemical engineering fits the bill perfectly. As The New Yorker writes, this battery fuel may be the most remarkable substance ever discovered. Free Guide: Unbreakable nano metal. Australias most valuable export? Download your guide here. This week in Money Morning The Big Four banks have unfair advantages over the rest. And its thanks to the ever-dutiful regulators. Theyre able to self-assess risky loans. And have relative monopoly over the banking sector. But as Harje wrote on Monday, thankfully, lenders from the East are moving in to punish the Big Four To read more, click here. The European Union is falling. And its not just countries like Italy, Spain and Greece pulling everyone else down. The pillars of the system, the economies of Germany and France are also expected to dive heading into 2019. And as Harje wrote on Tuesday, this could be the end of an empire To learn why, click here. Take a look around the globe. Theres something fishy going on. And its not that nagging feeling of always being watched. No, as Harje wrote on Wednesday, its the divergence between stocks and gross domestic product (GDP). In Australia and Europe, stocks are going up while GDP is surprisingly on the downside. Shouldnt they be falling instead of rising? To get answers, click here. Are stocks about to nosedive in the same way Boeing 737s have been lately? For the past few years, stocks have been pumped up. But as history tells us, this divergence can only last for so long. And as Harje wrote on Thursday, one of two things has to happen. Either earnings can rise, or stocks can fall. Which stock, cheap or expensive, do you want to hold when the latter happens? To read the full story, click here. Does it matter whether the Aussie market is going up or down? Not really. Does it matter that Boeing dropped 12% overnight when news broke of their second 737 MAX 8 plane crash? Probably not in the long run. And as Harje wrote on Friday, this is true of the mainstream news in general. Not only is it often useless, but it can also be straight up wrong. Take recent stories about Facebook for example To read the full article, click here. Until next week, Katie Johnson, Editor, Money Weekend PS FREE report: Why Nano Metal could soon be Australias most valuable export. Questo comunicato e stato pubblicato piu di 1 anno fa. Le informazioni su questa pagina potrebbero non essere attendibili. The EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) Construction Equipments Market report is encompassed of unique market dynamics that support the industry growth along with the various market issues such as trends, growth path, revenue, prediction, and market size analysis which directly impact the market dynamic. The information is obtained and analysed from the past and current year to forecast the market covering in the next coming years. The Construction Equipments industry experts were interviewed across the globe to gather the data which is then validated based on the secondary data. In-depth study of market segmentation and active major players involved in the Market has been outlined in the report. The report also discloses the demand consumption along with the current and future market environment. Besides, it also throws light on the various regional market scenario which gives important information to gain a competitive edge. Moreover, the report also throws light on a strategy adopted by the top players followed by the wide range of service with the recent statistical data that help to understand the Market scenario. Also, this report gives an idea about the potential consumer in the market across the various industry which will definitely help to cater the consumer needs and expectations. Download Free Sample Report of Construction Equipments Market Report @ https://www.decisiondatabases.com/contact/download-sample-5638 Geographically, this report split EMEA into Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, With sales (K Units), revenue (Million USD), market share and growth rate of Construction Equipments for these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast) Europe: Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy, and Benelux; Middle East: Saudi Arabia, Israel, UAE, and Iran; Africa: South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, and Algeria. EMEA Construction Equipments market competition by top manufacturers/players, with Construction Equipments sales volume (K Units), price (USD/Unit), revenue (Million USD) and market share for each manufacturer/player; the top players including Caterpillar Inc Komatsu Ltd Rockland Volvo CE Hitachi Construction Machinery Co. Ltd. Huisman Equipment Komatsu India Safari Construction Equipments Pvt. Ltd. Liebherr Group Zoomlion Deere & Company On the basis of product, this report displays the sales volume (K Units), revenue (Million USD), product price (USD/Unit), market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split into Earthmoving Trucking & Hauling Paving and Compacting Material Handling Drilling & Trenching Other On the basis of the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, sales volume (K Units), market share and growth rate of Construction Equipments for each application, including Infrastructure Construction Mining Manufacturing Oil & Gas Others Access Report and Full Table of Contents of Construction Equipments Market @ https://www.decisiondatabases.com/ip/5638-europe-construction-equipment-industry-market-report Table of Contents Snapshot 1 Overview 2 EMEA Competition by Manufacturers/Players/Suppliers, Region, Type and Application 3 Europe (Volume, Value and Sales Price), by Players, Countries, Type, and Application 4 Middle East (Volume, Value and Sales Price), by Region, Type, and Application 5 Africa (Volume, Value and Sales Price) by Players, Countries, Type, and Application 6 EMEA Manufacturers/Players Profiles and Sales Data 7 Manufacturing Cost Analysis 8 Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers 9 Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders 10 Market Effect Factors Analysis 11 EMEA Market Forecast (2017-2022) 12 Research Findings and Conclusion 13 Appendix More Related Report By DecisionDatanases.com @ Global Construction Equipment Monitoring Industry 2016 Market Research Report United States Construction Equipment Industry 2016 Market Research Report About Us: DecisionDatabases.com is an EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) business research reports provider, enriching decision makers and strategists with qualitative statistics. DecisionDatabases.com is proficient in providing syndicated research Report, customized research reports, company profiles and industry databases across multiple domains. Our expert research analysts have been trained to map clients research requirements to the correct research resource leading to a distinctive edge over its competitors. We provide intellectual, precise and meaningful data at a lightning speed. For More Details: DecisionDatabases.com E-Mail: sales@decisiondatabases.com Phone: +91-90-28-057900 Web: https://www.decisiondatabases.com/ Mayors of Avon, Avon Lake, Sheffield Village and Sheffield Lake once again touted that their regions are prospering, and with good reason. During the North Coast Chamber of Commerces 4-Mayors Luncheon on March 14 at Toms Country Place in Avon, the mayors boasted about new developments, overviews from the past year and gave many heartfelt thanks to their staffs and supporters. For his surprising approach to his speech, Avon Mayor Bryan Jensen, who wore a disguise by donning a wig and mustache, and actually helped the wait staff during the luncheon, asked for help from the Avon High School journalism broadcasting class to introduce him, which included a video produced by the students highlighting their talent. Jensen also invited the Avon Local School Districts orchestra to perform in the beginning of the event. In the video, Jensen said he noticed that the schools are teaching students to be kind to others and to celebrate the differences in people. He said, Its OK to be different. We as adults still cant figure that out. I think if we as adults could get out of the way of our children, were gonna find out that theyve got it right and weve got it wrong, and that we can celebrate together our differences. Jensens remarks were on point and we applaud him for discussing tolerance, especially with the young people. But Jensen also noted his duty to Avon, adding he serves his community and Lorain County, and hes appreciative for the opportunity. Sheffield Village Mayor John Hunter was the second luncheon speaker and gave his thanks to his Council members, county officials and other community leaders for their helping hand when he underwent heart surgery in October. Hunter said during his month in intensive care, neighbors came to check in on his family and other neighboring departments and mayors called in to check on his health. He also said his faith is what got him through his health crisis, even when doctors didnt think he would survive. But through all of his health challenges, Hunter said he knew that the village was in good hands with Council Pro-Tem Carolyn White and the rest of Councils leadership in his absence. Hunter admitted he thought he was irreplaceable, but just look at what happened when he was gone because Sheffield Village continued to operate. Hunter, who commonly calls Sheffield Village the heart of Lorain County, also referred to Jensens message on the areas youth, and plugged a renewal continual levy to go on the ballot this spring for Sheffield-Sheffield Lake City Schools. Without education and giving youngsters the opportunities, he said, they wont have anything for tomorrow. On the economic front, over the past year, Hunter said Sheffield Village welcomed 21 new businesses. The third speaker was Sheffield Lake Mayor Dennis Bring who highlighted the recent developments to the town, including the addition of new patrol cars for the Police Department and plans to update the sewer and water lines that have been around since the 1920s. Bring reflected on Hunters sentiments about community support ringing true for Sheffield Lake, especially during a horrifying incident May 31 when a police officer was shot during a standoff. Martin L. Robinson, 40, is serving 55 years in prison for attempted murder and other charges in the shooting of Amherst police Officer Eugene (JR) Ptacek, who was a member of the Lorain County SWAT team. Bring credited other police departments and law enforcement agencies for the professional manner they displayed in handling the aftermath of the standoff. But Bring also had good news that since Sheffield Lake integrated security cameras around town, crime rate has gone down. Bring stressed that authorities are not looking to spy on anyone or trying to invade peoples privacy, but just looking to keep people honest, and its working. Sheffield Lake also is looking forward to construction projects on state Route 301 and Harris Road in the coming year. The last speaker was Avon Lake Mayor Greg Zilka, who focused his speech on improving crime numbers in the city. Zilka said Avon Lake experienced an 8 percent decrease in crime, 35 percent decrease in burglaries and 50 percent decrease in vehicle thefts. And who could blame Zilka when he said Avon Lake was named last year as one of the top safest cities by the National Council for Home Safety and Security. Avon Lake ranks seventh in the state. Deer populations also have been more under control over the past few years, with a drop from 30 deer-related car crashes in 2011 to 13 last year. Housing construction also has remained steady at around 70 a year. Zilka said Avon Lake is heading in the right direction. In listening to the mayors, each of their respective cities is headed in the right direction. Questo comunicato e stato pubblicato piu di 1 anno fa. Le informazioni su questa pagina potrebbero non essere attendibili. The Global Screen Doors Market report is encompassed of unique market dynamics that support the industry growth along with the various market issues such as trends, growth path, revenue, prediction, and market size analysis which directly impact the market dynamic. The information is obtained and analysed from the past and current year to forecast the market covering in the next coming years. The Screen Doors industry experts were interviewed across the globe to gather the data which is then validated based on the secondary data. In-depth study of market segmentation and active major players involved in the Market has been outlined in the report. The report also discloses the demand consumption along with the current and future market environment. Besides, it also throws light on the various regional market scenario which gives important information to gain a competitive edge. Moreover, the report also throws light on a strategy adopted by the top players followed by the wide range of service with the recent statistical data that help to understand the Market scenario. Also, this report gives an idea about the potential consumer in the market across the various industry which will definitely help to cater the consumer needs and expectations. Download Free Sample Report of Screen Doors Market Report @ https://www.decisiondatabases.com/contact/download-sample-3672 Firstly, the report provides a basic overview of the industry including definitions, classifications, applications and industry chain structure. The Screen Doors market analysis is provided for the international market including development history, competitive landscape analysis, and major regions development status. Secondly, development policies and plans are discussed as well as manufacturing processes and cost structures. This report also states import/export, supply and consumption figures as well as cost, price, revenue and gross margin by regions (United States, EU, China and Japan), and other regions can be added. Then, the report focuses on global major leading industry players with information such as company profiles, product picture and specification, capacity, production, price, cost, revenue and contact information. Upstream raw materials, equipment and downstream consumers analysis is also carried out. Whats more, the Screen Doors industry development trends and marketing channels are analyzed. Finally, the feasibility of new investment projects is assessed, and overall research conclusions are offered. Access Report and Full Table of Contents of Screen Doors Market @ https://www.decisiondatabases.com/ip/3672-screen-doors-industry-market-report Table of Contents - Snapshot 1 Industry Overview of Screen Doors 1.1 Definition and Specifications of Screen Doors 1.1.1 Definition of Screen Doors 1.1.2 Specifications of Screen Doors 2 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Screen Doors 2.1 Raw Material Suppliers and Price Analysis of Screen Doors 2.2 Equipment Suppliers and Price Analysis of Screen Doors 3 Technical Data and Manufacturing Plants Analysis of Screen Doors 3.1 Capacity and Commercial Production Date of Global Screen Doors Major Manufacturers in 2015 3.2 Manufacturing Plants Distribution of Global Screen Doors Major Manufacturers in 2015 More Related Report By DecisionDatanases.com @ Global Smart Door Locks Market Research Report 2017 About Us: DecisionDatabases.com is a Global business research reports provider, enriching decision makers and strategists with qualitative statistics. DecisionDatabases.com is proficient in providing syndicated research Report, customized research reports, company profiles and industry databases across multiple domains. Our expert research analysts have been trained to map clients research requirements to the correct research resource leading to a distinctive edge over its competitors. We provide intellectual, precise and meaningful data at a lightning speed. For More Details: DecisionDatabases.com E-Mail: sales@decisiondatabases.com Phone: +91-90-28-057900 Web: https://www.decisiondatabases.com/ Opponents warn a bill before the Illinois House could make college campuses more dangerous. The measure would prohibit any public or private college or university in the state from asking about or considering an applicants criminal history during the admissions process. The bill mentions exceptions to comply with federal law and a state law that requires medical schools to check the criminal history of applicants. Supporters said it would not prevent campus officials from asking students who already have enrolled questions about past criminal acts. State Rep. Jeff Keicher, R-Sycamore, who represents the 70th District which includes Northern Illinois University warned the bill has the potential to allow convicted sexual criminals in dorms. We are one misstep, one bad actor away, from having a parent ask, Why didnt you know this person had a history that should have been addressed? Why didnt you keep an eye on this person? Keicher said. Aaron Woodruff is chief of police for Illinois State University. He also serves as vice president of Illinois Campus Law Enforcement Administrators. He has concerns about the bill and said others on campus share his feelings. A student came to me and said, Why are they more concerned about rapists rights than my rights? I didnt have a good answer for her, Woodruff said. And thats the question I propose to our legislators. If you think about it, in simple terms, we are giving rights to rapists over the rights of our other students. Khadine Bennett, director of Advocacy and Intergovernmental Affairs with the ACLU of Illinois, said theres no need to ask about criminal history when considering an applicant. What weve heard from impacted people is that seeing that box on an application causes them to pause and sometimes means they dont continue to fill it out, Bennett said. They worry whether or not theyd be welcome at that school or whether by checking that box they would automatically be denied. Its an unnecessary hurdle that exists. Bennett says any person who has paid his or her debt to society should be encouraged to continue with higher education. I understand forgiving past misdeeds, Keicher said, but I think theres a whole segment of parental and youthful trust that is being violated when youre sending your students to an institution that cannot act with certainty that everyone in their buildings reaches a certain level of safe history. Jonathan Lackland, director of governmental relations for Illinois State University, said the school believes in second chances for potential students. However, he said the bill, as written, would put doubt in the minds of parents. They are relying on us to make sure not only are we educating the students properly, but that were keeping them safe, Lackland said. The students will learn if indeed they feel safe and are in a safe environment. This bill will hinder the opportunity for us to do just that. Bennett said other college systems around the country have eliminated the criminal history question without major consequences. She pointed to the University of Texas system, the University of California system, and the State Universities of New York. We also allow for after the person applies, theres an ability to ask that [criminal] question for the purposes of housing or extracurricular activities, Bennett said. Thats already in place. Keicher warned the proposed legislation could make the states public university enrollment challenges more difficult. I cant fathom finding out from the university during the admissions process that this institution is forbidden from asking about the criminal history of other students my daughter would be in class with and cohabitating with, Keicher said. I cant understand the logic of that. The safety, security, and future growth of my daughter is paramount. And we need to secure that. Lackland and Bennett said opponents have been asking for changes to the language of the bill, but the request has fallen on deaf ears. One of the things we have requested has been to look at some really serious criminal provisions, whether its sexual assault or murder, things of that sort, Lackland said. And weve asked for an amendment where we could be in a position to ask that type of a question. The sponsor of the legislation has been unwilling to do so. The bills sponsor, State Rep. Mary Flowers, D-Chicago, did not respond to a request for comment on this story. Bennett said theres no need to change the existing language in the bill anyway. There are a lot of people who commit sexual assaults on campus who have never been convicted of that crime before, Bennett said. By asking this question, it doesnt necessarily make a campus safer. Keicher said hes been in touch with officials from Northern Illinois University, who stressed that a previous conviction does not automatically disqualify a student from admission. All the awareness does is create knowledge, Keicher said. The awareness doesnt say we cannot allow you to still gain admission. It just says we are aware, we can monitor, and we can ascertain what we need to do to maintain a safe and secure learning environment for the other vast majority of students on our campus. Illinois State University receives about 20,000 applications in a given year. In 2018, Woodruff said about 150 potential students disclosed a criminal history. Of those, six were denied entry. Most of those were because of a past sex offense. If we, as a government entity are not protecting our youth, who are sitting in classrooms in our universities, especially at NIU, that creates a liability on us morally, in my opinion, Keicher said. The bill, HB217, has passed through the Higher Education Committee and now awaits a final vote from the full House. Questo comunicato e stato pubblicato piu di 1 anno fa. Le informazioni su questa pagina potrebbero non essere attendibili. The Global Construction Equipment Monitoring Market report is encompassed of unique market dynamics that support the industry growth along with the various market issues such as trends, growth path, revenue, prediction, and market size analysis which directly impact the market dynamic. The information is obtained and analysed from the past and current year to forecast the market covering in the next coming years. The Construction Equipment Monitoring industry experts were interviewed across the globe to gather the data which is then validated based on the secondary data. In-depth study of market segmentation and active major players involved in the Market has been outlined in the report. The report also discloses the demand consumption along with the current and future market environment. Besides, it also throws light on the various regional market scenario which gives important information to gain a competitive edge. Moreover, the report also throws light on a strategy adopted by the top players followed by the wide range of service with the recent statistical data that help to understand the Market scenario. Also, this report gives an idea about the potential consumer in the market across the various industry which will definitely help to cater the consumer needs and expectations. Download Free Sample Report of Construction Equipment Monitoring Market Report @ https://www.decisiondatabases.com/contact/download-sample-5966 The report provides a basic overview of the industry including definitions and classifications. The Construction Equipment Monitoring market analysis is provided for the international markets including development trends, competitive landscape analysis, and key regions development status. Development policies and plans are discussed as well as manufacturing processes and cost structures are also analyzed. This report also states import/export consumption, supply and demand Figures, cost, price, revenue and gross margins. The report focuses on global major leading industry players providing information such as company profiles, product specification, price, cost, revenue and contact information. With 135 the report provides key statistics on the state of the industry and is a valuable source of guidance and direction for companies and individuals interested in the market. Access Report and Full Table of Contents of Construction Equipment Monitoring Market @ https://www.decisiondatabases.com/ip/5966-construction-equipment-monitoring-industry-market-report Table of Contents - Snapshot 1 Industry Overview 1.1 Basic Information of Construction Equipment Monitoring 1.1.1 Definition of Construction Equipment Monitoring 1.1.2 Classifications of Construction Equipment Monitoring 2 Construction Equipment Monitoring International and China Market Analysis 2.1 Construction Equipment Monitoring Industry International Market Analysis 2.1.1 Construction Equipment Monitoring International Market Development History 2.1.2 Construction Equipment Monitoring Competitive Landscape Analysis 3 Environment Analysis of Construction Equipment Monitoring 3.1 International Economy Analysis 3.2 China Economy Analysis More Related Report By DecisionDatanases.com @ United States Construction Equipment Industry 2016 Market Research Report EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) Construction Equipments Market Report 2017 About Us: DecisionDatabases.com is a Global business research reports provider, enriching decision makers and strategists with qualitative statistics. DecisionDatabases.com is proficient in providing syndicated research Report, customized research reports, company profiles and industry databases across multiple domains. Our expert research analysts have been trained to map clients research requirements to the correct research resource leading to a distinctive edge over its competitors. We provide intellectual, precise and meaningful data at a lightning speed. For More Details: DecisionDatabases.com E-Mail: sales@decisiondatabases.com Phone: +91-90-28-057900 Web: https://www.decisiondatabases.com/ Sonora, CA During an argument with his roommate, a Jamestown man escalated the situation when he grabbed a knife and started making deadly threats. A report of a disturbance sent Tuolumne County Sheriffs Deputies to a home on American River Drive in Sonora Monday, just after 3 p.m. Upon their arrival at the scene, the victim relayed they share a home with 21-year-old Rylee Sheffield and that the two got into a verbal argument. The victim says as the situation intensified and Sheffield allegedly pull out a knife while threatening to kill the victim. Sheriffs officials did not give details on what the argument was over or sparked it. Sheffield had fled the scene before deputies arrived. He was later located at a friends home and taken into custody without incident. Sheffield is charged with assault with a deadly weapon and threatening a crime with intent to terrorize. His bail was set at $40,000. People in Austin kept it weird days before SXSW 2019 concluded by attending events and taking to the famous Sixth Street to show their freaky side. The 10-day event featured keynotes, speakers, films, showcases, exhibitions, awards and more. Houston Public Library officials apologized Friday for failing to conduct a background check on a registered sex offender who read books to children at an event hosted by drag queens. Albert Garza, a 32-year-old registered sex offender, participated in the program under the name Tatiana Mala-Nina, according to the conservative anti-LGBTQ group, MassResistance. Library officials acknowledged in a statement Friday that Garza has "a criminal background that should have prevented him from participating" in the Drag Queen Storytime program, in which drag queens read books at the Freed-Montrose library. Department of Public Safety records show Garza was convicted of aggravated sexual assault of an 8-year-old child in 2009, for which he received five years of probation and community supervision. Mala-Nina did not respond to attempts Saturday to confirm her apparent criminal background. "We assure you that this participant will not be involved in any future HPL programs," the library's statement reads. "...We deeply regret this oversight and the concern this may cause our customers. We realize this is a serious matter." RELATED: Controversial story time draws protesters to Montrose library The development is the latest in an ongoing effort by conservatives seeking to end the Drag Queen Storytime program. In January, a federal judge granted the city's request to terminate a lawsuit against Mayor Sylvester Turner and the city's chief librarian, Rhea Lawson. Though a group of conservative Christian activists alleged in the suit that the storytellers had violated the Constitution's freedom of religion clause, a federal judge found that the plaintiffs lacked standing to sue and had failed to establish a constitutional violation. MORNING UPDATES: Get the Houston news you need for your day, delivered each morning Meanwhile, the activists have sought background information about the drag queen storytellers, filing public records requests that the city denied, said Tracy Shannon, a MassResistance member and plaintiff in the suit. The activists then uncovered Garza's history through social media, Shannon said. "We might not all agree that having adult entertainers is the right way to entertain young children or promote literacy, diversity and acceptance and inclusion," Shannon told reporters Friday. "But we can all agree that it's inappropriate to have a ... sex offender entertaining children at the library." NEWS WHEN YOU NEED IT: Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message | Sign up for breaking news alerts delivered to your email here. A woman who is alleged to have brandished a handgun and threatened a man moments before police say her accomplice shot him in the buttocks was arrested Thursday. Monica Medina, 32, is charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. She was also arrested for possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance between 4 grams and 200 grams, and possession of a controlled substance. Questo comunicato e stato pubblicato piu di 1 anno fa. Le informazioni su questa pagina potrebbero non essere attendibili. Bharat Book Bureau Provides the Trending Market Research Report on "Global Agricultural Biologics Market Size study, by type Source Mode of application Application and Regional Forecasts 2018-2025 under Food & Beverage Category. The report offers a collection of superior market research, market analysis, and competitive intelligence and industry reports. Global Agricultural Biologics Market Size study, by type (biopesticides, biostimulants and biofertilizers) Source (microbials, biochemicals and others) Mode of application (foliar sprays, soil treatment and seed treatment) Application (cereals & grains, oilseeds & pulses, fruits & vegetables and other crop types) and Regional Forecasts 2018-2025. Global Agricultural Biologics Market to reach USD 18.9 billion by 2025. Global Agricultural Biologics Market is valued approximately USD 6.75 billion in 2017 and is anticipated to grow with a healthy growth rate of more than 13.77 % over the forecast period 2018-2025. Growth in trend of sustainable agricultural, low residue load and supportive government regulations are some key trends that are responsible for the wide adoption of agricultural biologics globally. Growing demand for organic food would increase the adoption of agricultural biologics as these are used to grow nutritious and health crop. Global agricultural biologics market is significantly driven by growth prospects for organic foods. According to the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture in 2018, United States continues to be the largest market for organic foods across the world representing around 48% of the total, followed by France 8% and Germany 12%. In 2016, organic products exceeded to 5% of total sales and sales of organic commodities increase 23% as compared to previous year. Additionally, demand for organic beef, chicken and dairy products continues to rise, has resulted in an annual increase in organic soybean and corn imports around 33% per year. As a result, the demand and adoption of agricultural biologics would increase thereby, aiding the growth of the market over the forecast period of 2018-2025. Further, opportunities for microbial seed treatment products and market potential in developing countries offers lucrative growth prospects for the global agricultural biologics market globally over the forecast period. However, limited product availability and low efficacy of biologicals are the major factors that impede the growth of global agricultural biologics market. On the basis of segmentation, the agricultural biologics market is segmented into type, source, mode of application and application. Type segment of global agricultural biologics market is classified into biopesticides, biostimulants and biofertilizers of which biopesticides is expected to emerge as the fastest growing segment owing to the increasing demand for bioinsecticides and biofungicides for integrated pest management. Based on source segment, the agricultural biologics market is diversified into microbials, biochemicals and others of which as these have various characteristics that helps in the control bacteria, fungi, insects and weeds. On the basis of mode of application segment, the market is bifurcated into foliar sprays, soil treatment and seed treatment. Based on the application segment, the market is classified into cereals & grains, oilseeds & pulses, fruits & vegetables and other crop types of which cereals and grins segment is anticipated to be the fastest growing segment as these are the major cereals treated with biological products for crop protection. The regional analysis of Agricultural Biologics Market is considered for the key regions such as North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and ROW. Asia-Pacific have occupied major share in the global Agricultural Biologics market. The major reasons for the dominance of Asia-Pacific are increasing demand for crop nutrition and protection products in Asian countries and also seed manufacturers such as Monsanto, Bayer and Syngenta have been showing interest in tapping this potential market. Whereas, Asia-Pacific is expected to emerge as the fastest growing region in terms of market share. The growth of Asia-Pacific region is witnessed owing to companies working to expand R&D centers across this region. Request a free sample copy of Agricultural Biologics Market Report @ https://www.bharatbook.com/marketreports/Sample/Reports/1409836 The leading market players include - * Bayer * Syngenta * Monsanto Bioag * BASF * Dowdupont * Marrone Bio Innovations * Arysta Lifescience * Certis USA LLC * Koppert * Valagro The objective of the study is to define market sizes of different segments & countries in recent years and to forecast the values to the coming eight years. The report is designed to incorporate both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the industry within each of the regions and countries involved in the study. Furthermore, the report also caters the detailed information about the crucial aspects such as driving factors & challenges which will define the future growth of the market. Additionally, the report shall also incorporate available opportunities in micro markets for stakeholders to invest along with the detailed analysis of competitive landscape and product offerings of key players. The detailed segments and sub-segment of the market are explained below: By Type: * Biopesticides * Biostimulants * Biofertilizers By Source: * Microbials * Biochemicals * Others By Mode of Application: * Foliar Sprays * Soil Treatment * Seed Treatment By Application: * Cereals & Grains * Oilseeds & Pulses * Fruits & Vegetables * Other Crop Types By Regions: North America - U.S. - Canada Europe - UK - Germany - ROE Asia Pacific - China - India - Japan - ROAPEC LAMEA - Brazil - Mexico ROW - Middle East & Africa Furthermore, years considered for the study are as follows: Historical year 2015, 2016 Base year 2017 Forecast period 2018 to 2025 Target Audience of the Global Agricultural Biologics Market in Market Study: * Key Consulting Companies & Advisors * Large, medium-sized, and small enterprises * Venture capitalists * Value-Added Resellers (VARs) * Third-party knowledge providers * Investment bankers * Investors Browse our full report with Table of Contents: https://www.bharatbook.com/marketreports/global-agricultural-biologics-market-size-study-by-type-source-mode-of-application-application-and-regional-forecasts-20/1409836 About Bharat Book Bureau: Bharat Book is Your One-Stop-Shop with an exhaustive coverage of 4,80,000 reports and insights that includes latest Market Study, Industry Trends & Analysis, Forecasts & Customized Intelligence, Newsletters and Online Databases. Overall a comprehensive coverage of major industries with a further segmentation of 100+ subsectors. Contact us at: Bharat Book Bureau Tel: +91 22 27810772 / 27810773 Email: poonam@bharatbook.com Website: www.bharatbook.com Follow us on: Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Google Plus They held white crosses for people who died in detention pretrial. They made thousands of petition signatures look like cold cash. They marched around the Bexar County Courthouse demanding an end to cash bail for nonviolent misdemeanors here. And they delivered more than 20,000 signatures to Bexar Countys misdemeanor court judges, who could end cash bail for such offenses but refuse to do so. Or at least activists with the Texas Organizing Project recently tried to deliver petitions to these judges. Some were unavailable. Others opened their doors and were cordial but predictably unresponsive. I feel like they have this type of script memorized, said Laquita Garcia, an organizer with TOP, which partnered with the national group Color of Change to collect these signatures. And that script, she said, reads: This is a legislative matter. It needs to be done at the state level. Blah blah blah. Judges have been regurgitating this script since early February, after they derailed local talks to implement bail reform a la Harris County. There, misdemeanor court judges have ended the use of cash bail for nonviolent offenses. But the judges here have concluded Harris Countys order is likely unconstitutional and goes too far. Other legal minds disagree. The Harris County bail rulings are in line with the constitution and are spreading throughout the country as judges are recognizing the long-lost constitutional rights of defendants, Shima Baradaran Baughman, a professor with the University of Utah College of Law wrote to me in an email. She continued: Historically, release before trial has been a constitutional right. In recent years, release on bail has only been a right for wealthy Americans who can afford to pay high bail amounts. The Harris county ruling restores this right for all Americans who are safe to release and is a step in the right direction. What does she know? Shes only the author of The Bail Book. Garcia left her meetings with Bexars judges exasperated. Judges say: We support you. We appreciate your work, but we cant stand publicly with you, Garcia said. Frustrating, but maybe not so surprising. Consider: One of the judges Garcia & Co. met with was Carlo Key. He did not respond to my interview request, but last May, Key was the defense attorney for a woman TOP bailed out of jail. The woman had spent two weeks locked up pretrial and never saw Key. When I asked him about this at the time, Key said, Fourteen days is not a long time to be (in jail), relatively speaking. Unless, of course, you have kids or a job or believe you are innocent or are just too poor to make bond. If he couldnt see the issue then, why would he see it from the bench now? In fairness, its not like Bexars other judges are lighting the way. In defending the cash bail system in February, Judge John Longoria pretty much indicted it. There can rightly be somebody who sits in jail because he slaps his wife around and didnt have the money to pay for a bond, he said. Now, if somebody else (who) slaps his wife around and has the money, then, yeah, they are going to get out. Our current system is not going to bless somebody for being poor and slapping their wives around. It was a shaky example partly because bail reform has never been about releasing people accused of violent offenses. No one wants wife beaters, rich or poor, to be released. This is all about nonviolent offenses. But mostly it was a poor example because it shows the inadequacies of the cash bail system. Cash bail does not weigh risk, it only measures wealth. And by doing nothing, Bexars judges are saying this is OK. Bail reform is a policy endeavor, but this is also a political moment. Judges are elected, and TOP played a pivotal role in electing Joe Gonzales, a reform-minded district attorney. Michelle Tremillo, TOPs executive director, said, This is something our community wants, and we have a DA who has the courage to make it happen, and we need judges to find the same courage. Time will tell if she was speaking about these judges or future ones. jbrodesky@express-news.net Enchanted Crystal Subscription Box 2.5 overall rating 4 Ratings | 0 Reviews Enchanted Crystal is a monthly subscription for crystals, hand-picked and uniquely curated to offer a truly enchanted crystal experience. This box was sent to us at no cost for review. (Check out the review process post to learn more about how we review boxes.) This is a review for the $42 Crystal Variety Box subscription. About Enchanted Crystal The Subscription Box: Enchanted Crystal The Cost: $42 per month for the Crystal Variety Box or $16 for the Crystal of the Month subscription. The Products: The Crystal Variety Box includes 4 8 crystal or mineral specimens, a hand-printed cloth grid, and bonus mini crystals or minerals. The Crystal of the Month subscription includes a crystal or mineral specimen, plus educational information and bonus mini crystals or minerals. Ships to: US for free, $10/month shipping to Canada, $15/month anywhere else in the world. March 2019 Enchanted Crystal Variety Box Review First, youll see a note from Adam of Enchanted Crystal. Adam went back to the Tucson Gem Show for a second time to collect even more amazing crystals for us in the future. Amethyst Cluster One can never have enough amethyst. Look at that juicy purple color! I love these clusters because in addition to having tons of pointy crystal goodness they also nearly always have interesting bottoms. I love looking at the cross-section of crystals like this and seeing how an ugly rock slowly turns into crystal magic, layer upon layer. Kind of like a time lapse of me waking up and putting on makeup in the morning! Amethyst is one of those stones that is said to have a host of healing benefits, such as stress relief, cleansing, and enhancing intuitiveness. I love to keep them around because they are just beautiful to look at. Brazilian Quartz This gorgeous cluster looks like pure ice out of the front of a fridge door. I love the shape of this large crystal and the bottom is nearly flat! It is actually the perfect size for sitting between my laptop keyboard and screen. Yeah, I went there. Do you guys remember when Spencer Pratt from the Hills bought ALL of the crystals? I am basically him right now. Rose Quartz I love getting quartz in crystal boxes because they just look really cool! This pretty pink crystal has such beautiful lines and striations. Rose quartz is a love stone and highly cherished in healing for its ability to encourage trust and unconditional love. The rose color actually comes from small amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese (SCIENCE!) and it can range from the palest rose to a deeper pink. Pyrite I remember getting my first piece of Fools Gold on a family trip to Arkansas, where my Mom would take me to a bunch of little hole in the wall rock and crystal shops. It is easy to see why people thought this was gold. It has a metallic flashy finish and feels heavier than it should for its size. This mineral also displays some super interesting geometric complexities and it is not uncommon to find specimens in perfect cube shapes! Fun fact, you can also strike pyrite with flint or another piece of pyrite to create a spark and build a fire. Try it out on your next camping trip to really impress your fancy friends. Now thats glamping! Tibetian Quartz These humble little quartz pieces are probably my favorite this month because they have really interesting inclusions. I THINK the inclusions are probably bits of black carbon, but who knows! Lots of interesting stuff can get stuck inside crystals when the minerals build up around them. These look like pure chipped glass and when held up to light you can also see light bent into different colors and rainbows. Enchanted Crystal always sends bonus crystals or minerals in a small bag as well. Black Tourmaline I have quite a few pieces of this handsome black stone. It is widely considered a stone of protection, and if you have never carried a piece of this around in your bra, you cant judge me for believing it. These particular pieces have interesting white inclusions. Rough Amethyst I love that this sub sends perfectly polished crystals as well as rough pieces like this amethyst pair. These have a foggy coating that is really interesting! Madagascar Quartz This was a quartz heavy month, and you will hear no complaints from me! I have always loved these little interesting quartz pieces ever since I was a kid and an older man at one of those Arkansas rock shops told me they were fairy teeth. That was pretty magical for a kid, and also terrifying because I didnt know if he was lying or not. These have interesting orange residue on them, which I am guessing is some sort of clay or iron. Verdict: Enchanted Crystal is always a sub I look forward to each month, and this month I was so thrilled to get both their Crystal of the Month and this larger Crystal Variety box! This is truly a fantastic sub for anyone who uses crystal in healing or just has an interest in them for science or beauty, or for those of us who just like shiny things. I am obsessed with these larger specimens and already have them surrounding my workspace. The amethyst is beautiful and quite big, as is the ice quartz. Pyrite takes me back to my childhood and the rose quartz wand is so girly and marvelous. I always enjoy the little bags of extra minerals too, because they might be small, but they are always weird or interesting. To Wrap Up: Can you still get this box if you sign up today? No, but sign up today to receive the April crystal of the month. Sign up on or before the 5th of the month to get the current months box! All orders processed after the 5th will ship the following month. We ship between the 5th and 8th of each month. Value Breakdown: This box costs $42.00 + free shipping, which means that each of the 5 crystal varieties in the box and the single bag of bonus crystals have an average cost of $7.00. Check out all of our Enchanted Crystal reviews and more in the Womens Subscription Box Directory! Keep Track of Your Subscriptions: Add this box to your subscription list or wishlist! Are you also mesmerized by Enchanted Crystals crystal variety box? A Beitbridge woman (35) who was based in Johannesburg, South Africa, was shot seven times at her house in Cosmos City in a horrific murder which was witnessed by her son (10). The incident, which has left the Beitbridge community shocked, occurred on Wednesday night. The motive behind the shooting including the suspect behind it is not known. South African police spokesperson for Honeydew, Captain Balan Muthan confirmed the murder, saying the woman, identified as Ms Excite Mudau, was declared dead at the scene. He said they have since opened a murder inquest. The woman from Zimbabwe was shot in the lower part of the body and she died on the spot. She was sleeping with her son when the suspect stormed into her house and shot her and the boy then rushed outside and notified neighbours who then alerted police, he said. Our detectives are investigating the murder and no arrests have been made so far. The body was taken to Hillbrow government mortuary for postmortem. Relatives who spoke to The Chronicle said they were waiting for police investigations pending repatriation of the body. A family member who preferred to remain anonymous said they suspected Ms Mudau was shot dead by a lover. Although the details are scant we suspect the murder could be a crime of passion. We understand the person who shot her is a male with whom she had an altercation earlier. We are, however, waiting for a full update from the police, said the family member. The deceaseds friend Ms Rendani Ngulube Mukwevho, who is also based in Johannesburg, said on the fateful day a male visited Ms Mudaus house at night before an altercation ensued between the two. On that particular night my friend was at home with her 10-year-old son when a certain man came and knocked on the door. They then went outside during which they had an altercation. When the deceased went back to her house, the suspect followed her to the bedroom where he shot her seven times on the lower part of the body and she died instantly, she said. Cases of Zimbabweans being murdered in the neighbouring country have of late been on the rise. In August 2017, a Zimbabwean pastor, Reverend Proud Kanyungwe (32) and his wife Belinda Tarisai Mukucha (28) were shot and killed by two armed robbers at their rented home in Scottsville Extension in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu Natal province while their two daughters, one of them aged three years, watched helplessly. The armed robbers went away with two cellphones and a laptop. The incident came barely a month after a Bulawayo woman was shot 13 times by unknown suspects while on her way to catch a taxi in Pretorias Soshanguve area. Sikhethiwe Moyo (30) died on the spot. The suspects took out a cellphone SIM card from her phone and fled. The phone was found next to her body. Chronicle Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News President Emmerson Mnangagwa is in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on a 3-day working visit at the invitation of the Emir. He was met at the Abu Dhabi International Airport by the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheik Mohammed bin Zaed bin Sultan Al Nahyam and Zimbabwes Minister Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Dr Sibusiso Moyo, who led the countrys advance team to the Middle East. Addressing journalists, Minister Moyo said there are serious discussions on several sectors of the economy the emirates are interested in. President Mnangagwa is here at the invitation of his counterpart, the Crown Prince and it is an invitation creating a symbiotic relationship and strategic partnership between the Emirates and Zimbabwe. Different issues are going to be discussed both on the political, diplomacy and the various economic areas which benefit both countries. So it would be absolutely two days of hectic discussions, whose decisions will be implemented immediately, Dr Moyo said. According to the Minister, President Mnangagwa will also visit Dubai. As you might be aware, here in Abu Dhabi is where the Crown Prince is, but the Prime Minister is in Dubai and therefore President Mnangagwa will be travelling to meet the Prime Minister, he said. Dr Moyo confirmed that the Zimbabwean government will be opening an embassy in Abu Dhabi, describing the decision as strategic in the face of western sanctions imposed on the country. The visit is part of the reengagement and engagement drive and is set to deepen ties between the two nations. Meanwhile, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga is the Acting President. ZBC Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News Dear patient readers, In case you missed our note yesterday, one of the two key members of our moderation team is hospitalized and unlikely to be back in the saddle for at least two weeks. Please send her your best wishes for a recovery. In the meantime, Lambert and I will do what we can to take up the slack, but please bear in mind we can only do so much, and forgive us since many of you will find if you comments get caught up in the moderation tripwires, that it may well take us longer to free them than usual. Ditto with fixing bad links in posts. Study finds people in Ireland and Scotland made bog butter for millennia ars technica (Chuck L) India follows Chinas lead, bans plastic waste imports TreeHugger (resilc) In Fatberg Fight, NYC Goes to War Against Flushable Wipes Bloomberg Scenes From the Worldwide Student Climate Strike Rolling Stone (David L) Dimien: Fighting Climate Change With Nanomaterials Wired (UserFriendly) Aquaculture wars: The perils and promise of Big Fish Christian Science Monitor (resilc) Artificial intelligence: 3 ways its already changing medicine Vox (David L) Scientists Call For Global Moratorium On Gene Editing of Embryos Guardian Are Eggs Good Or Bad? How You Should Interpret This Latest Study Forbes New Zealand Massacre North Korea CIA Blames Its Proxy For Its Raid On North Koreas Embassy In Spain Moon of Alabama (Kevin W) Brexit Syraqistan Big Brother is Watching You Watch A new rash of highly covert card-skimming malware infects ecommerce sites ars technica (Chuck L) Imperial Collapse Watch Trump Transition Supreme Court to rule if citizenship census question is constitutional Axios GOP quietly works to expand ballot-harvesting in California while criticizing Democrats for the practice Washington Post. UserFriendly: Shocked! Kamala Harris Introduces Bill To Send Millions To Local Governments For Tech Support The Verge. Enriching CA squillionaires in the guise of infrastructure building rather than fixing crumbling roads and bridges. Green New Deal 2020 737 Max College Admission Bribery Students Are Suing the Hell out of Schools Tied to the College Bribery Scam Vice (resilc) Fake News How To Write A Political Puff Piece Current Affairs. UserFriendly: Devastating. Wikipedia is the most perfectly corrupt neoliberal encyclopedia imaginable. There are countless examples like this, but itll be many more years before the culture manages a u-turn. The idea that we are in charge of wikipedia is seared into our minds https://t.co/VfrLvvsS6E Mark Ames (@MarkAmesExiled) March 15, 2019 MMT Modern Monetary Realism James K. Galbraith Project Syndicate (J-LS) Plain Dealer Editor Announces 12 Reporters and Editors Will Lose Jobs, Decimating Print Newsroom Cleveland Scene. Chuck L flagged this section: Well, it may very well be the final chapter for the nations first News Guild. Thats why the Plain Dealer is Local 1. Its tiny membership has been decimated by this latest assault. In a statement, the Guild said that its membership had been reduced by roughly 90 percent in the past 20 years, from 340 to about 30, after the latest cuts. Esquire: America Has Always Exported Culture. Have We Added Mass Shootings and Online Fascism? Esquire (resilc) Teslas introduction to the Model Y underwhelms and stock promptly falls MarketWatch Amazon takes another step into the medical space by accepting pre-tax health spending accounts CNBC Antidote du jour (martha r). Squirrels like views too! This is Yosemite: And a bonus from bob: Watch the moment a paraglider makes a safe landing only to then be attacked by a kangaroo. Straya! pic.twitter.com/nqStQnV9gk SBS News (@SBSNews) March 8, 2019 See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here. NATO Deputy Secretary General Rose Gottemoeller is in Baku, Azerbaijan today (20 September 2018) to meet with senior government officials and to address a major international conference on Women, Peace and Security. The conference, jointly organised by NATO and Azerbaijan is the first since NATO leaders agreed a revised Women, Peace and Security Policy and Action Plan at the Brussels Summit in July 2018. Integration, inclusiveness and integrity. These will be the watch-words as we move forward with our agenda to make gender equality an everyday reality for women and girls everywhere, said the Deputy Secretary General in her speech. While in Azerbaijan, the Deputy Secretary General met with President Aliyev, Vice President Mrs Aliyeva, Speaker of Parliament Mr. Asadov, Defence Minister Hasanov and other senior officials. She also participated in the closing ceremony of the Jeyranchol NATO/PfP Trust Fund project and awarded certificates to Afghan officials and academics for a course devoted to the civilian oversight of the armed forces in the Afghan context. This course took place in the framework of DEEP Afghanistan. She also met with students from ADA University. (Natural News) A coalition of concerned parents is quickly forming in Central California, where local students and teachers alike are reportedly developing cancer at alarming rates. The cause? According to these parents, at least, its a cell phone tower on the campus of Weston Elementary School in Ripon, near Modesto, thats constantly blasting insane amounts of cancer-causing radiation into the bodies of everyone near it. First it was one child. Then it was two. Then it was four, along with three teachers, which eventually prompted a conversation about the giant, multi-story, metallic elephant in the room: that unsightly cell phone tower that parents say needs to be moved somewhere else as soon as possible. During a recent board meeting held at the school, parents demanded that school administrators take action immediately. Others indicated that theyre no longer going to allow their children to attend classes until something is done with the tower. We had a doctor tell us that its 100 percent environmental, the kind of tumor that he has, stated Monica Ferrulli, whose son Mason is one of the students at the school who was recently diagnosed with cancer, to CBS Sacramento. For more news about the cancer-causing effects of radiation coming from cell phone towers, mobile phones, smart meters, and other consumer devices, check out EMF.news. School officials claim tests conducted on cell phone tower prove that it is safe In a prepared statement that was pre-written before this latest school board meeting even took place, board president Kit Oase told concerned parents that tests supposedly conducted on the tower show that its operating normally within safety standards, to quote The Modesto Bee. But this prepackaged rhetoric only enraged some of the parents further, including Ferrulli, whose son had to be treated for brain cancer back in 2017. It is just denial, Ferrulli is quoted as saying about the school boards insistence that the cell phone tower is safe, citing what she says is obsolete research conducted by the American Cancer Society (A.C.S.). Richard Rex, the parent of another student at Weston, feels much the same as Ferrulli. He and his family live right across the street from the school, and his 11-year-old son developed a strange bump in his abdomen roughly a year ago, which he believes was caused by the tower. After visiting a specialist, the child, named Brad, was diagnosed with liver cancer the bump on his abdomen having been identified as a tumor that was wrapped around his liver. They said they can shrink it and cut it out, Brads father told local media. Theyre also talking liver transplant. It is very scary. Will March For Our Lives start a campaign against cancer-causing cell phone towers? With all the talk these days from Leftist talking heads about protecting the lives of children from gun violence, one wonders if there will be a similar movement working towards stamping out cancer-causing cell phone towers that kill children especially as ultra-deadly 5G technology is rolled out in the coming months and years. Are David Hogg and Emma Gonzalez going to start staging protests against 5G cell phone towers, calling on the corporate C.E.O.s pushing the technology on the masses to be held accountable for endangering childrens lives? We certainly wont hold our breath on that one. the giant uncontrolled experiment on children and adults has already begun, despite an urgent international appeal by tens of thousands of scientists, doctors, environmental organizations and citizens calling for a halt to 5G deployment, warns Childrens Health Defense. In both Europe and the U.S. individuals living and working in proximity to newly installed 5G towers and antennas have immediately started experiencing health problems such as insomnia, miscarriage, memory problems and other neurological issues, and there are widespread reports of annihilation of insect and bird populations, the group further warns. Sources for this article include: InformationLiberation.com ModBee.com NaturalNews.com ChildrensHealthDefense.org (Natural News) The legal team for Hillary Clinton negotiated a deal with the corrupt Obama Justice Department that denied the FBI access to the private email server she had set up in her home related to the Clinton Foundation, according to a recently released transcript of congressional testimony from fired FBI agent Peter Strzok. The transcript, which was released by Rep. Doug Collins, (R-Ga.), because the Justice Department would never do it, revealed that during questioning by House Judiciary Committee general counsel Zachary Somers, Strzok admitted that Clintons private servers harbored various emails linked to the Clinton Foundation, as well as her role as Obamas secretary of state and other matters. Fox News reported: Were you given access to [Clinton Foundation-related] emails as part of the investigation? Somers asked. We were not. We did not have access, Strzok responded. My recollection is that the access to those emails were based on consent that was negotiated between the Department of Justice attorneys and counsel for Clinton. In other words, Clinton, through her legal team, had final say over whether the FBI could have access to evidence they required in order to adequately investigate an alleged crime in this case, mishandling of highly classified information. Do you recall a time when a private citizen had the power to negotiate with the Justice Department what evidence the FBI would not be permitted to see? Strange; President Trumps first national security adviser, retired Army Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn, had no such power. Neither did Paul Manafort or long-time associate Roger Stone. Or millions of other Americans investigated by the FBI through the years. In his testimony, Strzok noted that a significant filter team at the bureau was available to work through the various terms of the various consent agreements. How does a potential perpetrator get to pick and choose what the FBI sees? According to the attorneys, we lacked probable cause to get a search warrant for those servers and projected that either it would take a very long time and/or it would be impossible to get to the point where we could obtain probable cause to get a warrant, said Strzok. Just how is it the FBI could or would be denied access to email servers that were central pieces of evidence in a case involving a) criminal mishandling of classified emails; and b) electronic communications related to the Clinton Foundation? Mind you, the foundation has been accused of accepting pay-to-play transactions accusations stemming in large part from an International Business Times report that Clintons State Department approved $151 billion in DoD-brokered deals with 16 countries that, amazingly, donated to the foundation. That amounted to a 145 percent increase in completed sales to those countries over the same time frame during the Bush administration. What added to speculation that the deals were dirty is the fact that contributions to the foundation fell by 90-plus percent after Hillary was defeated by Donald Trump in the 2016 election, according to financial statements. Finally, the foundation received $145 million in donations from parties tied to the Uranium One sale, in which Hillary was said to have not taken part though she was serving as the countrys chief diplomat at the time. Coincidental, were sure. But the fact that Clinton was allowed to negotiate which evidence the FBI could and could not see in the first place is outrageous. Whats bizarre about this, is in any other situation, theres no possible way they would allow the potential perpetrator to self-select what the FBI gets to see, said former Utah Rep. Jason Chaffetz, onetime chair of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee until 2017 The FBI should be the one to sort through those emails not the Clinton attorneys. You would think. Read more about the abject corruption from Bill and Hillary Clinton at Corruption.news and Clinton.news. Sources include: FoxNews.com TheNationalSentinel.com IBTimes.com (Natural News) No sooner than news broke that a self-styled eco-fascist had attacked two mosques in serene, picturesque, and tolerant New Zealand, killing at least 50 and wounding nearly as many, the Western media went dutifully to work blaming it on POTUS Donald Trump. Oh, they didnt come right out and say, Trump is responsible for this horrific incident! but they brought up what happened and what the alleged attacker, Brenton Tarrant, wrote in a manifesto about Muslim invaders and how he became radicalized during a European tour. The line of questioning from pathetic CNN was typical. One of the garbage networks correspondents, John Berman, questioned GOP Rep. Adam Kinzinger of Illinois, who is also an officer and pilot in the Air National Guard and all but blamed the attacks directly on our president. You asked for God to change peoples hearts, Berman said. Does God need to change peoples language? And I ask you that, because this killer apparently in a screed, some people call it a manifesto, said hes a supporter of President Trump as a symbol of white identity. Why would anyone see the president as a symbol of white identity? I think God needs to change peoples hearts, and I beg he does, he needs to change their language, Kinzinger replied, but you cannot put this on President Trump. Sure they can, because thats CNNs only purpose these days, to portray President Trump as the second coming of Adolph Hitler, though hes never once demonstrated any racist, bigoted characteristics. None. And no, issuing an executive order banning persons from entering the U.S. from Muslim-majority countries doesnt count as bigotry when the countries identified in the order are hotbeds of terrorism (and some of the same ones Obama noted when he banned travel to the U.S.). But of course, the bad journalism didnt stop with CNN. The New York Times Wajahat Ali claimed that POTUS Trump was enabling white nationalism though Tarrant claimed in his manifesto he was disgusted by all of the Muslim migration into Europe. Tired. Very little sleep. Stumbled with my words a bit but thank you to @BrookeBCNN for giving me space to say my piece about #Christchurch and the rise of white nationalism and how Trump is enabling it. Wajahat Ali (@WajahatAli) March 15, 2019 Blaming Trump for this is insane Meanwhile, naturally, Left-wing American lawmakers who just happen to be Muslims have also laid the blame at Trumps feet and, by default, every single one of his supporters all of whom are now white supremacists. Enter Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.): Rep. @RashidaTlaib on the massacre in Christchurch. "I am so angry at those who follow the "white supremacy" agenda in my own country that sends a signal across the world that massacres like this is some kind of call to action." pic.twitter.com/qKS4XGs6Gt Lauren Fox (@FoxReports) March 15, 2019 Never mind that shes an anti-Semite who is actively working to undermine Israel and Jews. Thats okay, apparently, in the far-Left, Democrat media. (Related: Twitter hosted violent hate rants and photos of New Zealand mass shooter who live-streamed the killing of Muslim churchgoers.) USA Today also got into the fake news/blame Trump act, claiming wrongly that the president retweeted an interview he did with Breitbart News after the New Zealand shootings. In fact, the president tweeted a link to the Breitbart home page, not to any specific article. Oh, and he did so Thursday evening around 11 p.m. EDT, before the attacks. Potential 2020 Democratic presidential nominee and former Vice President Joe Biden, who served with the most racially divisive president in the history of our country, had to make sure he tweeted: Whether it is antisemitism in Pittsburgh, racism in Charlottesville, or the xenophobia and Islamophobia today in Christchurch, violent hate is on the march at home and abroad. We cannot stand by as mosques are turned into murder scenes. Whether it is antisemitism in Pittsburgh, racism in Charlottesville, or the xenophobia and Islamophobia today in Christchurch, violent hate is on the march at home and abroad. We cannot stand by as mosques are turned into murder scenes. Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) March 15, 2019 Meanwhile, POTUS was right out of the gate with a tweeted message Friday morning, sending his sympathy and best wishes to the people of New Zealand. The U.S. stands by New Zealand for anything we can do, he wrote. God bless all! Wow. What a racist, bigoted, white nationalist he is. Read more about the NZ terrorist attack and the way the fake news media continues to blame our president at Terrorism.news and Trump.news. Sources include: Breitbart.com NewsTarget.com A fashion model and beauty pageant finalist who was apparently drunk when she slapped a flight attendant and subjected passengers to obscenities and racial slurs on a January flight from Australia to Los Angeles is facing a June 24 sentencing date. Adau Akui Mornyang, 25, was found guilty Thursday in Los Angeles federal court of interference with a flight attendant and assault. She was acquitted of a third federal charge of assaulting an air marshal. The trouble started Jan. 21 about nine hours into the 15-hour flight from Melbourne when passengers approached United Airlines crew member Romeo Gutierrez to complain that Mornyang was "yelling obscenities and racial slurs and flailing her arms," according to court documents. When Gutierrez approached, the Australia-based South Sudan-born model began to shout and slapped him across the face. When the abuse continued, Gutierrez tried to hold her down until federal air marshals could assist, court papers show. Air marshals stayed with Mornyang at the rear galley of the plane through the remainder of the flight. An affidavit in the case stated that Mornyang responded that she was a "strong black woman" and that the crew was "singling her out" for abuse. At one point, she removed her socks and threw them at nearby passengers, prosecutors said. Crew members who served her two glasses of wine before the trouble started noticed an empty wine bottle at her seat, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. Mornyang migrated to Australia when she was 10 as a refugee from war-torn South Sudan. A 2017 Miss World Australia finalist, she received international attention two years ago when she streamed an hour-long Facebook Live video about being raped. She is also known as an advocate against rape victim-blaming culture, particularly in South Sudanese communities. What to Know Two Brentwood brothers were sentenced in a $3 million bogus pharmacy scheme. Dalibor "Dabo" Kabov and older brother Berry operated Global Compounding Pharmacy. They were also ordered to pay $350,834 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service. Two Brentwood brothers who pocketed over $3 million by creating a bogus pharmacy to obtain and distribute large quantities of OxyContin and other prescription narcotics to black-market customers were sentenced to 10 years each in federal prison, prosecutors announced Thursday. Dalibor "Dabo" Kabov and older brother Berry -- operators of Global Compounding Pharmacy -- were also ordered by U.S. District Judge Dolly M. Gee to pay $350,834 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service, with each brother being ordered to pay just over $175,000, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. Now-defunct Global Compounding was found guilty of 17 counts including drug trafficking, drug importation, and tax fraud. The brothers were convicted in January 2017 in Los Angeles federal court of conspiracy to distribute narcotics, distribution of oxycodone, conspiracy to import controlled drugs, importation of anabolic steroids, money laundering and subscribing to false tax returns. "It is disturbing that both defendants claim to have done nothing wrong," Gee said at the sentencing hearing Wednesday. "That is a mirage. There was overwhelming evidence of guilt." Gee added that the Kabov brothers showed "no remorse" for their crimes. "In the midst of a national opioid epidemic, these defendants used a seemingly legitimate pharmacy as a front to flood the black market with dangerous opioids for their own personal profit," U.S. Attorney Nick Hanna said. "The lengthy sentences imposed should send a resounding message that medical and pharmacy professionals who seek to profit from the spread of opiate addiction will be met with severe punishment." Evidence presented at trial included recorded calls between Berry Kabov and a cooperating informant, during which the defendant described oxycodone pills as "gold" selling for as much as "50 bucks a pill" in areas like New York. Berry Kabov, 48, offered to ship as many as 4,000 oxycodone pills per week to the informant, bragging that "we have a thing that we can move easy." Berry and his 35-year-old brother were also found guilty of illegally importing anabolic steroids purchased from a wholesale drug distributor located in Hubei, China. On federal tax returns, the Kabovs understated their income by about $1.5 million. They falsely claimed to have suffered net losses in 2011 and 2012, while they were flying in private jets, staying in penthouse suites, and purchasing new luxury cars, such as a $100,000 Corvette, prosecutors said. Evidence showed that at one point, Global Compounding was the top purchaser of oxycodone among all pharmacies in the Los Angeles area, ordering three times more oxycodone than the second-largest purchaser. The man suspected of being a notorious California serial killer who eluded capture for decades had been arrested by Sacramento police in the 1990s, years before he was connected to the killings, a newspaper reported Friday. Joseph DeAngelo, now in jail as the suspected "Golden State Killer,'' was arrested in a 1996 sting operation on allegations he had held up a gas station, the Sacramento Bee reported. Sacramento police had promised Super Bowl tickets to people facing outstanding warrants to lure them, and DeAngelo responded. DeAngelo spent several hours in jail but the gas station charges were later dismissed. The Bee obtained court records linked to a $1 million civil lawsuit he filed against the gas station owner that outline details of the arrest. It would be 22 years before police would arrest DeAngelo again, this time linking him to at least 13 murders and more than 50 rapes across California in the 1970s and 80s. He's been awaiting trial on 26 charges in the same Sacramento jail since last April and has not entered a plea. The case of the so-called Golden State Killer and East Area Rapist eluded investigators for decades; the suspect's last known killing occurred in 1986. Investigators zeroed in last year on DeAngelo by using DNA and genealogy websites. Sacramento Police Sgt. Shaun Hampton said police would not have had any way of knowing in the 1990s that DeAngelo was allegedly linked to the crimes. The department was not routinely collecting DNA samples at the time. "The evidence wasn't there, the technology wasn't there,'' he said. "I don't think there's any way we could have known, there was no way for us to identify this person by him simply being in our jail for a few hours.'' DeAngelo had prepaid for gas at a station when the pump malfunctioned, prompting him to go inside to seek a refund. The clerk did not understand him and reported him as an attempted robber, according to court records from a 1998 settlement conference in his civil lawsuit. Records didn't show the terms of the settlement. William Wright, DeAngelo's attorney at the time, said he remembered DeAngelo as a "nice guy'' who was upset about what happened at the gas station. He did not realize his client from 22 years earlier was the Golden State Killer until contacted by the newspaper. "I'd seen the guy TV, but I never made the connection,'' Wright said."He was very pleasant when he was talking to me.'' An Antioch man was arrested early Saturday on suspicion of manufacturing and selling illegal guns from a home just a block away from a local high school. Terry Ferguson, 33, was taken into custody after police served a search warrant at 6 a.m. at his house in the 200 block of J Street. A felon on parole, Ferguson is suspected of possessing, manufacturing, and selling illegal firearms from the house. Several people were detained at the home, including Ferguson, while detectives searched the residence. In Ferguson's bedroom, they found firearms and evidence that Ferguson was manufacturing unregistered, fully automatic handguns and rifles. Police released a photo of several weapons found at the home on J Street. The house is two blocks away from the Antioch Police Department and one block from Prospects High School. The Antioch police SWAT Team assisted in serving the search warrant. Ferguson is on parole for robbery and on county probation for possession of narcotics while armed with a firearm. He was booked at Contra Costa County Jail on suspicion of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, possession of prohibited firearms, and illegally manufacturing and selling firearms. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the Antioch Police Department non-emergency line at (925)778-2441. Tips may be texted to 274637 (CRIMES) using the key word ANTIOCH. The contentious debate over sanctuary counties continues as a Bay Area city plans to change its sanctuary city policy after an undocumented immigrant with a long criminal history was arrested for the murder of a woman. San Jose Chief of Police Eddie Garcia said the county's sanctuary policy needs to be revisited and revised. "We're not here to shield the gangster, the violent criminal or the serious offender," Garcia said. "And we need to get that policy changed." The announcement comes on the heels of one of the citys most heinous crimes. Police arrested Carlos Eduardo Arevalo Carranza Monday after a 12-day manhunt. Hes accused of killing Bambi Larson in what investigators described as one of the most gruesome and disturbing murders in recent memory. Carranza is an undocumented immigrant from El Salvador and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said cities and counties ignored its requests to detain him for deportation after having prior arrests. The chief said it is time to work with ICE more closely when it involves violent criminals. "If I have to oppose policies that hinder my ability to keep my city safe, then thats something I have to do," Garcia said. Chief Garcia now finds himself at odds with the immigrant rights group, Services Immigration Rights and Education Network (SIREN). "Regardless if youre an immigrant or not, you should not be subjected to double punishment by being turned over to ICE," Director for SIREN Priya Murthy said. An activist group of immigrant moms, called Mamas Unidas, said it does not want violent criminals released to their streets or deported. The groups leader said deporting them is like sending the criminals to victimize innocent families abroad and would prefer undocumented immigrants deported to a deserted island. Regardless of the outcome, San Jose is back at the center of the national sanctuary debate. "The policy and sanctuary status has simply gone too far," Garcia said. San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo agreed. In a statement released Tuesday, the mayor said "It is long overdue for the County to reconsider its current policy of ignoring ICE hold requests for predatory felons, which undermines the safety of the very immigrant communities we collectively seek to protect." An addition to one of the most unique homes in the Bay Area ruffled some feathers at a Hillsborough Town Hall Friday as a lawsuit has labeled the iconic "Flintstones House" a public nuisance. In keeping with the "Flintstones House" theme, a statue of Fred Flintstone is in the front yard as if hes ready to welcome guests, and since the new owner purchased the property, large dinosaurs towering over the yard can be seen from Interstate Highway 280. According to the towns lawsuit filed this week, "because the landscaping improvements create a highly visible eyesore and are out of keeping with community standards, the decision and order required that they be removed by Dec. 5, 2018." "I dont mind, but I can imagine other neighbors may," said Donna Situ. Look Inside 'Flintstones' House in Hillsborough The house is owned by Florence Fang, a prominent member of the Chinese-American community in the Bay Area. According to the lawsuit, she did show up to one of the permitting hearings, where inspectors told her she didnt get permission to put up the dinosaurs and other yard decorations. "My grandmother hasn't even seen the papers yet. She only learned this from the news today. I'm sure she will fight to save the Flintstone House though. Stay tuned," her grandson Sean Fang said in a statement. "As a San Mateo County native, I think the dinosaurs are beautiful. They make everyone smile and should stay." Residents said dealing with Hillsborough Town Hall can be a challenge. Neighbor Situ learned that when she recently moved a tree. "You had to ask, what is the circumference and when do I have to file paperwork to chop down a tree. You do have a lot of paperwork that you have to deal with," she said. The permitting department already fined Fang $200, which she paid. The lawsuit is not demanding anything be changed on the house, only that the dinosaurs and other yard items need to be removed. UPDATE MARCH 20, 2019: Fang is fighting back against the lawsuit and is being represented by the Law Offices of Mayor Joseph L. Alioto and Angela Alioto. The law firm provided the following statement: "This is intolerance and elitist behavior from the town of Hillsborough. It is unconstitutional, and we will fight back vigorously in our answer and cross-complaint." An attack on a New Zealand mosque took the lives of 50 worshippers Friday and left dozens more wounded when a white supremacist opened fire and live-streamed the shootings. Here are the stories of some of those killed and wounded. THE DEAD HUSNA AHMED Farid Ahmed refuses to turn his back on his adopted home, despite losing his 45-year-old wife, Husna Ahmed, in the Al Noor mosque attack. They had split up to go to the bathroom when it happened. The gunman livestreamed the massacre on the internet, and Ahmed later saw a video of his wife being shot. A police officer confirmed she died. Despite the horror, Ahmed originally from Bangladesh still considers New Zealand a great country. "I believe that some people, purposely, they are trying to break down the harmony we have in New Zealand with the diversity," he said. "But they are not going to win. They are not going to win. We will be harmonious." FARHAJ AHSAN, 30 The software engineer moved to New Zealand six years ago from the city of Hyderabad in India, where his parents still live, according to the Mumbai Mirror. "We received the disturbing news," Ahsan's father, Mohammed Sayeeduddin told the newspaper Saturday. Friends and family had been trying to reach Ahsan since the attack. Ahsan was married and had a 3-year-old daughter and infant son. ANSI ALIBAVA, 25 Indian news reports said Alibava, 25, had moved to New Zealand last year after marrying Abdul Nazar. The Indian Express newspaper said she was studying agriculture technology at Lincoln University and her husband worked at a supermarket in Christchurch. They got married in 2017. The Manorama Online news site said her mother, Rasia, had prayed for the safety of the two when the news broke of the attacks. Alibava used to call her family back in India every day, but they were worried when there was no call after the shootings. They later found out from the husband what had happened. The report said she was hoping to find a job in New Zealand to support her family back home. INDIAN CITIZENS KILLED India's ambassador to New Zealand issued the following names of Indian citizens who were killed in the mosque attacks: Maheboob Khokhar Ramiz Vora Asif Vora Ansi Alibava Ozair Kadir ABDULLAHI DIRIE, 4 Four of Adan Ibrahin Dirie's five children managed to escape Friday's attacks, but the youngest, Abdullahi, was killed, his uncle, Abdulrahman Hashi, 60, a preacher at Dar Al Hijrah Mosque in Minneapolis, told the New Zealand Herald. Dirie also suffered gunshot wounds and was hospitalized. The family fled Somalia in the mid-1990s as refugees and resettled in New Zealand. "You cannot imagine how I feel," Hashi said. He added: "He was the youngest in the family. This is a problem of extremism. Some people think the Muslims in their country are part of that, but these are innocent people." ATTA ELYAN Atta Elayyan, 33, was a goalkeeper for a New Zealand futsal team. The Oceania Football Confederation said those who knew Elayyan described him as having "an unbridled passion for futsal and for representing New Zealand." Futsal is a variant of indoor soccer. A statement from the confederation released Monday extended condolences to Atta's family and all of those affected. OFC official Paul Toohey said Elayyan was a selfless man who always had time for friends, family, teammates and young up-and-coming players. "Atta was everything a team could want an outstanding performer who was dedicated to his goalkeeping craft but also a great friend and leader among his teammates at Canterbury United Dragons and the Futsal Whites," Toohey said. His father, Mohammed Elyan, co-founded one of the mosques in 1993, and was among those wounded, said Muath Elyan, Mohammed's brother, who said he spoke to Mohammed's wife after the shooting. Muath said his brother also teaches engineering at a university and runs a consultancy. ALI ELMADANI Elmadani and his wife immigrated from the United Arab Emirates in 1998. The retired Christchurch engineer always told his children to be strong and patient, so that's what they are trying to do after the tragedy, his daughter, Maha Elmadani, told Stuff. "He considered New Zealand home and never thought something like this would happen here," she said. She said her mother "is staying as strong as possible. My younger brother isn't doing too well with the news." LILIK ABDUL HAMID The longtime aircraft maintenance engineer at Air New Zealand was killed in the Al Noor mosque when he was killed, his employer said in a statement. "Lilik has been a valued part of our engineering team in Christchurch for 16 years, but he first got to know the team even earlier when he worked with our aircraft engineers in a previous role overseas," Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Christopher Luxon said. "The friendships he made at that time led him to apply for a role in Air New Zealand and make the move to Christchurch. His loss will be deeply felt by the team. Hamid was married and had two children, Luxon said. "Lilik, his wife Nina and their children Zhania and Gerin are well known and loved by our close-knit team of engineers and their families, who are now doing all they can to support the family alongside our leadership team and the airline's special assistance team," he said. HUSSEIN AL-UMARI, 35 When Aya Al-Umari thinks of her big brother, she pictures him with his arms wide open, ready to wrap her in an embrace. Hussein Al-Umari was a hugger, she says, a kind man, and the quintessential big brother who delighted in teasing his little sister. Hussein, 35, was killed while attending Friday prayers at Al Noor mosque. Aya had spent the previous evening having dinner with him, and she recalled how excited he was that their parents had just bought a new car. She and her brother were born in Abu Dhabi and moved with their parents to New Zealand in 1997. Hussein worked in the tourism industry, and he loved traveling. He had recently traveled to the seaside South Island city of Nelson and had created a video blog of his adventures. Aya had been impressed by how polished it was. Their mother, an Iraqi calligraphy artist named Janna Ezzat, wrote on Facebook that her son had become a martyr. Ezzat wrote: "Our son was full of life and always put the needs of others in front of his own." MUCAAD IBRAHIM, 3 At just 3 years old, Mucaad Ibrahim is the youngest known victim of the attacks. He was separated from his older brother Abdi and their father when the shooting began at the Al Noor mosque. After an agonizing search by the family, Abdi said police finally confirmed that the toddler had been killed. Mucaad was born and raised in Christchurch. He was beloved by the community, known for his energetic demeanor and easy laugh. He was bright and bubbly, and loved playing with an iPad. Ahmed Osman, a close family friend, said Mucaad used to cheer from the sidelines as Osman and Abdi played soccer on Friday evenings at a park near the mosque. The little boy had planned to watch them play soccer as usual on Friday. He never made it. Osman said the support of the community has helped the family pull through. "New Zealand is always behind us," he said. "Even when we walk down the street, people stop us and say, 'Are you guys OK?' That's what New Zealand is about. It's all about coming together. One person cannot stop us." MOHAMMAD IMRAN KHAN A handwritten cardboard sign outside Mohammad Imran Khan's restaurant, the Indian Grill in Christchurch, on Sunday said simply CLOSED. A handful of pink flowers laid nearby. The owner of the convenience store next door, JB's Discounter, Jaiman Patel, 31, said he helped the staff with the keys after the terrorist attack that claimed Khan's life. "He's a really good guy. I tried to help him out with the setup and everything," Patel said. "We also put the key out for them when the terrorists come, and sorted it out for him." Khan had a son who was 10 or 11, Patel said. The two were business neighbors who helped each other out when needed, he said. "We are helping each other. It's so sad." SAYYAD MILNE, 14 Milne, 14, was described as a good-natured, kind teenager. The high school student was at the Al Noor mosque for Friday prayers when the attack started, his half-sister, Brydie Henry, told the Stuff media outlet. Sayyad was last seen "lying on the floor of the bloody mosque, bleeding from his lower body," she said her father told her. Sayyad's mother, Noraini, was also in the mosque and managed to escape, Henry said. The teenager has two other siblings, 15-year-old twins Shuayb and Cahaya. "They're all at home just waiting. They're just waiting and they don't know what to do," Henry told the news site. "He had kind eyes, a big heart, a cheeky smile and a thick mop of black hair. He loved playing football and also indoor futsal," Cashmere High School principal Mark Wilson told students at an assembly Monday. The school's futsal goalkeeper planned to travel with the team to the national tournament in Wellington this month. JUNAID MORTARA, 35 Javed Dadabhai is mourning for his gentle cousin, 35-year-old Junaid Mortara, believed to have died in the first mosque attack. His cousin was the breadwinner of the family, supporting his mother, his wife and their three children, ages 1 to 5. Mortara had inherited his father's convenience store, which was covered in flowers on Saturday. Mortara was an avid cricket fan, and would always send a sparring text with relatives over cricket matches when Canterbury faced Auckland. HAMZA MUSTAFA, 16 Hamza's family fled the civil war in Syria, then he spent six of his young years as a refugee in Jordan before the family was accepted into New Zealand in 2018. An excellent horse rider who aspired to be a veterinarian, Hamza, 16, was compassionate and a hard-working student, said Cashmere High School principal Mark Wilson. "Despite the fact that he hadn't been here for a long time he had already quickly developed many friends," he said. His younger brother Zaed, also a Cashmere student, remains hospitalized with gunshot wounds to his leg. Their father, Khalid, also died in the attack on the Al Noor Mosque. KHALID MUSTAFA Mustafa, who fled the civil war in Syria with his family, was at Friday's Al Noor service with his two sons, 16-year-old Hamza and 13-year-old Zaed. He died, along with Hamza, while Zaed remains hospitalized with gunshot wounds. Mustafa's wife, Salwa, told Radio New Zealand that when the family asked about New Zealand before they were accepted in July 2018, they were told "it's the safest country in the world, the most wonderful country you can go ... you will start a very wonderful life there. But it wasn't." HAJI DAOUD NABI, 71 Nabi moved his family to New Zealand in 1979 to escape the Soviet-Afghan war. Days before the shootings, his son, Omar, recalled his father speaking about the importance of unity. "My father said how important it is to spread love and unity among each other and protect every member of the society we live in," Omar told Al-Jazeera. Omar told the news network his father ran an Afghan Association and helped refugees settle into a new country. "He used to make them feel at home," Omar said. TARIQ OMAR Omar, a former Cashmere High School student from 2008 to 2012, was also among those who died, principal Mark Wilson said. HUSNE ARA PARVIN, 42 Parvin died being struck by bullets while trying to shield her wheelchair-bound husband, Farid Uddin Ahmed, her nephew Mahfuz Chowdhury told The Daily Star, a Bangladesh newspaper. Chowdhury said Uddin had been ill for years and Parvin took him to the mosque every other Friday. She had taken him to the mosque for men while she went to the one for women. Mahfuz said relatives in New Zealand told him when the shootings began, Parvin rushed to her husband's mosque to protect him. He survived. The Bangladeshi couple had moved to New Zealand sometime after 1994, Chowdhury said. NAEEM RASHID, 50, and TALHA RASHID, 21 As the shootings unfolded, Naeem Rashid is seen on video trying to tackle the gunman, according to Rashid's brother, Khurshid Alam. "He was a brave person, and I've heard from a few people there, there were a few witnesses. They've said he saved a few lives there by trying to stop that guy," Alam told the BBC. The 50-year-old Rashid's son, Talha Naeem, 21, is also among the dead. Rashid was a teacher in Christchurch and was from Abbottabad, Pakistan. His son was 11 when his family moved to New Zealand. He had a new job and planned to get married. Rashid's brother, Dr. Mohammad Khursheed, who lives in Abbottabad, received an emotional call from his sister-in-law telling him of his brother's death. Khursheed said his brother had already bought a plane ticket to Pakistan for a May family reunion. Pakistan declared Monday a national day of mourning to honor its citizens killed in the attack, and said Rashid would be recognized for his heroism. SYED AREEB AHMED, 26 Ahmed had recently moved from his house in Karachi, Pakistan, for a job in New Zealand to help support his family back home. On Saturday, Pakistan's foreign ministry informed his family that Ahmed was among those killed during the mosque attack. One of his uncles, Muhammad Muzaffar Khan, described him as deeply religious, praying five times a day. But education was always his first priority, Khan said. Ahmed was an only son who had immigrated to New Zealand for work, his uncle said. "Education had always remained his first priority," Khan said. "He had gone to New Zealand recently where he got his job. He had only started his career, but the enemies took his life" Family members, relatives, and friends have gathered at Ahmed's house to express their condolences. His body is expected to arrive there in the coming days. GHULAM HUSSAIN, KARAM BIBI and ZEESHAN RAZA Three Pakistanis from the same family Ghulam Hussain and his wife, Karam Bibi, and their son Zeeshan Raza were also killed in the attacks. OTHER PAKISTANI VICTIMS Pakistan's foreign ministry said three other Pakistanis were killed: Haroon Mahmood, 40, son of Shahid Mehmood Sohail Shahid, 40, son of Muhammad Shabbir Syed Jahanand Ali, 34 THE WOUNDED ELIN DARAGHMEH A Palestinian woman says her 4-year-old daughter is fighting for her life while her husband is in serious but stable condition after being wounded in the mosque shooting. Asmaa Daraghmeh, 27, said the family moved to New Zealand from Jordan four years ago when her husband received a permit to work as a hairdresser. "It was a great opportunity," she said, crying on the phone. "The country is safe, beautiful and hospitable." She spoke from the Auckland hospital where their daughter, Elin, remained in intensive care. Her husband, 33, was being transported to the same hospital. Asmaa said she is a devout Muslim who was active in the mosque. "Our life was great in this great country until this devil appeared and turned it to hell," she said. SHIHADEH NASASRAH Shihadeh Nasasrah, 63, who was wounded in the New Zealand mosque shooting, said he spent terrifying minutes lying underneath two dying men as the gunman kept firing. The assailant "would go out and bring more ammunition and resume shooting," said Nasasrah, speaking by phone from a Christchurch hospital where he was recovering from two shots to the leg. "Every time he stopped, I thought he was gone. But he returned over and over again. I was afraid to leave because I didn't know the safest way out. I died several times, not one time." Nasasrah had attended Friday prayers at the Al Noor Mosque with his friend, Abdel Fattah Qasim, 60, who was killed in the shooting. Both were originally from the West Bank Nasasrah from the town of Beit Furik and Qasim from the town of Arabeh. Nasasrah said about 200 to 300 worshippers were in the mosque for Friday prayers, and that he and his friend were sitting in the front, near the imam, or prayer leader. The imam was delivering the sermon when the gunman burst into the mosque, he said. "Panic spread all over the place," Nasasrah said. "Some started saying Allahu Akbar (God is great). We scrambled to leave toward a second door that leads to a hall and then to the street, but the bullets brought us down." "Two people came on top of me, and he (the gunman) approached us and opened fire. Both were killed and I felt them dying," Nasasrah said. "I felt their blood. I myself was shoot and I thought 'I'm dying'." He said he uttered the words that devout Muslims speak before their death "there is no God but Allah, and Mohammed is his messenger." Nasasrah, a car dealer, said most of the worshippers were from Asia, including Indonesia, India, Singapore and Malaysia, and that Arabs made up a smaller part of the congregation. The attack left him and other Muslims in the area worried and puzzled. "I never heard a racist word in this country," he said. "I don't know what happened and why. I will not leave this country. Our lives are well established here, our homes, works, family is here and we will not leave." As a young man, Nasasrah studied English in the Syrian capital of Damascus, and then worked as a translator at the New Zealand embassy in Saudi Arabia for 14 years. The father of three moved to New Zealand in 1990. His three children graduated from universities in New Zealand and have established their lives in the country. MUHAMMAD AMIN NASIR, 67 Nasir and his son were just 200 meters (219 yards) from the Al Noor mosque on Friday when everything went wrong. They had no idea that a white supremacist had just slaughtered at least 41 people inside the mosque. A car that had been driving by suddenly stopped, and a man leaned out the window pointing a gun at them. They ran as the bullets began to fly. But at 67, Nasir could not keep up with his 35-year-old son. He fell behind by two or three fateful steps. The gunman drove away. A pool of blood poured from Nasir's body. Nasir, who lived in Pakistan, had been regularly visiting his son in New Zealand. He was on the third week of his visit when he was shot. He remains in an induced coma with critical injuries, though his condition has stabilized. ADEEB SAMI, 52 As the rampage inside the mosque began, Sami was shot in the back as he dove to protect his two sons, Abdullah, 29, and Ali, 23, the Gulf News reported. "My dad is a real hero. He got shot in the back near his spine in an attempt to shield my brothers but he didn't let anything happen to them," Adeeb's daughter, Heba, 30, told the Gulf News. Sami, described by the Gulf News as a Dubai-based New Zealander of Iraqi origin, underwent surgery to remove the bullet and his daughter said he's recovering. As President Donald Trump struggled with mounting Republican defections over his emergency declaration to pay for a border wall, his acting White House chief of staff wasn't on Capitol Hill cajoling former colleagues or in the West Wing making calls. Instead, Mick Mulvaney was in Las Vegas for an annual getaway with friends and family. It was a telling example of Mulvaney's laissez-faire approach as he settles into a role that has bedeviled those who came before him. His predecessor, retired four-star Gen. John Kelly, tried to micromanage Trump but ended up grating on the president and antagonizing outside allies. Mulvaney has made clear he believes his job is to manage the staff and not the president, according to current and former officials and people close to him. And he's OK with that. Mulvaney doesn't try to limit whom the president speaks with or curb access to the Oval Office. He just asks that those who talk to Trump fill him in on what was discussed to avoid surprises. While former staffers compare the current atmosphere in the West Wing to the early, chaotic days of the administration, when the Oval Office had the feel of Grand Central Station, Mulvaney understands that's how Trump likes it. The former South Carolina congressman has focused on and succeeded in improving staff morale in a building known for infighting and damaging leaks. Shortly after his arrival, Mulvaney organized a staff retreat at Camp David. He also has worked to build relationship on Capitol Hill, where he served for years. He schmoozed with lawmakers on the sidelines of the president's State of the Union speech and invited them to a Camp David retreat as well. It's an approach that some outside the building question. "The chief of staff has to be able to manage down as well as up," said Chris Whipple, author of "The Gatekeepers: How the White House chiefs of staff define every presidency." ''I don't think he's been empowered and I think that's a mistake." Mulvaney's tenure has coincided with an especially tumultuous time in Washington, beginning with the fight over border wall money that caused the longest government shutdown in the nation's history. He was at the table in Vietnam for Trump's abruptly terminated summit with North Korea's leader and has watched as newly empowered House Democrats have launched investigations into Trump's dealings. Trump has been known to make remarks undercutting Mulvaney in front of him, giving some the impression that Trump already may be souring on his third chief of staff in as many years. But by all accounts, Mulvaney is a happy warrior who generally gets along well with the equally blunt president and brushes off slights. Though Trump gave Mulvaney the job on an "acting" basis last December, Trump doesn't appear likely to replace him anytime soon. Mulvaney has the added benefit of getting along well with Trump's daughter Ivanka Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner, both senior advisers with enormous internal power. Mulvaney, who has personal experience working in a family business, understands their unique positions. He built relationships with both as Trump's budget director and has had dinner with their family. "He's trying to do the best he can with what he has to work with," said Leon Panetta, a former chief of staff to President Bill Clinton who also served as budget director, defense secretary and CIA director. Like others interviewed, Panetta said it would be impossible to serve as a typical chief in Trump's White House. "All you can do is be there, respond to the president when you can, try to maintain some semblance of order and try to keep things at least halfway on track and not collapsing into total chaos," Panetta said. Mulvaney, who technically also retains the title of budget director, remains engaged in policy and budget issues, which made his absence in recent days especially notable. He left on Wednesday afternoon as the White House was mounting a final effort to try to stop GOP senators from backing a resolution to block Trump's emergency order. Mulvaney was absent for Thursday's vote, when a dozen Republican senators joined Democrats in rebuking the president. And he was still gone Friday when Trump issued the first veto of his presidency, overruling the vote to terminate his declaration. The White House defended Mulvaney's decision to take the trip, which senior strategy adviser John Czwartacki said was part of a 25-year tradition. Mulvaney was to return to Washington on Saturday, in time to appear on the Sunday talk shows, and worked throughout his trip, talking to senators and at least a half-dozen staffers and receiving briefings on the shooting in New Zealand, Czwartacki said. Czwartacki also said the president was fine with Mulvaney's absence and that the chief of staff had a team in place empowered to operate without him. Indeed, in a quiet sign of his influence, Mulvaney has brought on a half-dozen new staffers, including communications aides. Panetta, however, said it was "very unusual" that Mulvaney hadn't played a more prominent role in this year's budget talks, saying he should have been "the primary person trying to guide negotiations." David B. Cohen, a political science professor at the University of Akron who is also writing a book on the chief of staff role, echoed that perception, saying previous chiefs, especially those with experience like Mulvaney's, "were essentially handed the keys and told, 'Get this done.'" Mulvaney is "good at television, he's good at communication. But I think at this point, he's little more than an administrative assistant for Trump," Cohen said. The White House pushed back on the idea that Mulvaney should have been charged with steering the border wall talks, saying it made sense for Vice President Mike Pence and the White House legislative affairs director to take the lead. Mulvaney appears happy to be promoting Trump's agenda, even when the president's policies stand in conflict with ideas that Mulvaney has long championed. In the months before he signed the emergency declaration, Trump argued to his staff that the situation at the border was a national security crisis and demanded to know why he, as president, couldn't stop what he deemed an "invasion." Other aides told Trump there was nothing he could do. But Mulvaney, a longtime fiscal hawk who had blasted former President Barack Obama for using executive action to dictate immigration policy, went back to his colleagues at the Office of Management and Budget and asked them to start identifying various sources of money the White House might be able to access without Congress' approval to start building the wall. Associated Press writer Catherine Lucey contributed to this report. An Amber Alert has been canceled in Indiana after a five-year-old girl was reported missing on Saturday. According to the Fort Wayne Police Department, the girl, identified as Leanna Nicole Herron, was last seen at 3 p.m. on Saturday aftenroon in Fort Wayne, which is 125 miles northeast of Indianapolis. At approximately 7 p.m. Illinois time, Indiana police canceled the Amber Alert, but did not immediately provide details on her condition or the circumstances surrounding the incident. Anyone with information on the case is encouraged to call the Fort Wayne Police Department at 260-427-1222. Friday worship at Chicago-area mosques looked slightly different this week, as the Chicago Police Department and the Cook County Sheriffs Department both paid special attention to security at the facilities. Security was tight during Friday worship services at the Mosque Foundation in Bridgeview, following an attack in New Zealand that claimed the lives of at least 49 people at two houses of worship in the town of Christchurch. I was devastated, but this is not the first time this has happened, resident Jawad Shalabi said. While there were no threats locally, mosques and Muslim centers across the city, and nation, are on high alert, and are being told to take increased security precautions. We are asking mosques to be extra vigilant, CAIR Chicago Deputy Director Sufyan Sohel said. (Were asking them) to provide security and to have extra people at the doors to keep their eyes out for anything suspicious. Local worshippers, including Naseem Ashkar, are determined not to live in fear even in the face of the tragic shooting, and he hopes that residents across the country can realize what they have in common, even if they are of different faiths. If we get to know each other, youll find we have a lot in common, he said. If you ask me about my neighbor and my neighbor about me we both love each other, and hes a Christian and Im a Muslim. The community will gather for a vigil on Saturday night at the Muslim Community Center in Morton Grove to honor the victims lost in the New Zealand shooting. Flooding caused by heavy rain and snowmelt is blamed for two deaths in the Midwest, and two others are missing. Hundreds of people were evacuated from their homes in Nebraska and Iowa as levees succumbed to the rush of water. Flooding has also been reported in Illinois, Minnesota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Authorities were using boats and large vehicles on Saturday to rescue and evacuate residents in parts of the Midwest. The scramble to move people out of harm's way was expected to subside going into the new week, as rivers and creeks in flooded eastern Nebraska and western Iowa were expected to crest Saturday and Sunday. That left officials downstream looking to prepare for likely flooding. Missouri Gov. Mike Parson had already met with emergency management team members Friday to review and update flood-response plans, and the Missouri Highway Patrol was preparing additional equipment and putting swift water rescue personnel on standby. The Missouri National Guard also temporarily relocated the 139th Airlift Wing's C-130s from Rosecrans Air National Guard Base in St. Joseph as a precaution. The National Weather Service said the Missouri River at St. Joseph reached nearly 26 feet on Saturday, about a foot below what's considered major flooding at the northwest Missouri city. But it's expected to crest Wednesday or Thursday at 29.3 feet more than two feet above major flooding level. Evacuation efforts in eastern Nebraska and some spots in western Iowa on Saturday were hampered by reports of levee breaches and washouts of bridges and roads, including part of Nebraska Highway 92, leading in and out of southwest Omaha. Authorities confirmed that a bridge on that highway that crosses the Elkhorn River had been washed out Saturday. In Fremont, west of Omaha, the Dodge County Sheriff's Office issued a mandatory evacuation for some residents after floodwaters broke through a levee along the Platte River. And in Mills County, Iowa, authorities ordered people in some rural areas to evacuate after the Missouri River overtopped levees. The flooding followed days of snow and rain record-setting, in some places that swept through the West and Midwest. The deluge pushed some waterways, including the Missouri River, to record levels in Nebraska, South Dakota, Iowa and Minnesota. The flooding was the worst in nearly a decade in places. The family of farmer James Wilke, 50, of Columbus, Nebraska, said he was killed Thursday when a bridge collapsed as he was using his tractor to try to reach stranded motorists on Thursday. His body was found downstream, his cousin Paul Wilke told the Columbus Telegram. Gass Haney Funeral Home confirmed James Wilke's death. Authorities say 52-year-old Aleido Rojas Galan of Norfolk, Nebraska, died Friday night in southwestern Iowa. Officials say Galan and two others were in a vehicle that drove around a barricade and was swept away. The other two men survived. Officials said a Norfolk man was seen on top of his flooded car late Thursday before being swept away in the water and another man was swept away by waters when a dam collapsed on the Niobrara River. Officials in Sarpy County, south of Omaha, said Saturday that power may be shut off to communities along the Missouri, Platte and Elkhorn rivers for safety reasons. They warned those who choose to ignore calls to evacuate that rescues would be attempted only during daylight hours. Some cities and towns, such as North Bend on the banks of the Platte River, were submerged. Others, such as Waterloo and Fremont, were surrounded by floodwaters, stranding residents in virtual islands with no access in or out. "There is no way out of here unless you've got a helicopter or a boat," the Rev. Mike Bitter, pastor of Christian Church of Waterloo, told the Omaha World-Herald. Officials in western Iowa and eastern Nebraska were urging people not to drive unless necessary. In Iowa, a section of northbound Interstate 29 that runs parallel to the Missouri River was closed due to flooding. Authorities were rerouting motorists at Kansas City, Missouri, using a detour that took people almost 140 miles out of the way. Farther east, the Mississippi River saw moderate flooding in Illinois from Rock Island south to Gladstone. Meteorologist Brian Pierce with the National Weather Service's Quad Cities office in Davenport, Iowa, said flooding on the Mississippi could get worse a few weeks as more snow melts in Minnesota and Wisconsin. "What we're having now is the dress rehearsal for the main event that's going to happen in early April," he said of the flooding on the Mississippi. Rising waters along the Pecatonica and Rock rivers flooded some homes in the northern Illinois cities of Freeport, Rockford and Machesney Park. The National Weather Service said record crests were possible along the rivers, with water levels forecast to continue to rise over the next several days and remain above flood stage through most of the weekend. Freeport resident Mary Martin told the (Freeport) Journal-Standard that she went to the store to get milk and bread when she saw floodwaters were rising Friday. "Within an hour of going to the store, I could not get back in. That's how fast the water was coming up," Martin said. The collapse of the Florida International University pedestrian bridge one year ago has left a trail of deep personal loss and professional finger-pointing but few answers. The disaster that killed six people on Southwest Eighth Street at 1:47 p.m. on that warm, clear Thursday is a construction failure born of design errors and what appears to be a misguided attempt to address them by adding tension to a critical, failing truss without closing the road below. But it is rooted in the university's ambitious plans to leave its mark on the region. The disaster that killed six people on Southwest Eighth Street at 1:47 p.m. on that warm, clear Thursday is a construction failure borne of design errors and what appears to be a misguided attempt to address them by adding tension to a critical, failing truss without closing the road below. Seeking bidders for the project in June 2014, FIU envisioned "an innovative signature bridge that will become a respected and valued design landmark in Miami," part of a project linking the campus to Sweetwater. "If we get the bridge right, everything else can fall into place. If we get the bridge wrong, nothing else will matter." It turns out, a lot matters, including how the families of six dead and one critically brain-injured patient will get justice for what they claim in lawsuits was negligence by the general contractor, MCM, the designer, FIGG Bridge Engineers, and 23 other companies involved in the $12 million contract. Eleven other people are suing as well. NBC 6s Tony Pipitone reveals another problem with the FIU bridges move that happened days before the collapse. In just the last month, FIU and the Florida Department of Transportation have been added as defendants; FIU announced it has submitted a claim against MCM over the disaster; and MCM has filed for bankruptcy, seeking to reorganize and avoid paying those whose deaths and injuries they allegedly caused any more than the $42 million it has in insurance coverage. To help the public understand what was and for some families, still is a devastating event in our community, the NBC 6 Investigators have compiled a detailed timeline including documentation of some key events along the way. Jenna Mendez, who tried to help pull people from the rubble when a bridge collapsed at FIU, is still coping with the tragedy one year later. NBC 6s Tony Pipitone reports. Among the revelations not previously reported: There were problems with equipment used during the lift and placement of the bridge on March 10, 2018. An engineer with Bridge Diagnostics Inc., a Colorado company that installed and monitored sensors to track forces exerted during the operation, says a software program designed to track relative changes in the bridge's position -- called offsets -- appears to have malfunctioned: "When the computer was turned back on after a break, the software program that carries the offsets for each sensor did not automatically pull the offset file as it should have once the file was reopened," according to an investigation revealed in court records by the claims administrator for BDI's insurer. Al Brizuela, a professional engineer consulted by NBC 6, said if the offset readings were wrong during the move, engineers may have received inaccurate data. A call to BDI seeking further explanation has so far gone unanswered. Almost immediately after the bridge was placed on its pier and pylon, a subcontractor took at least one photograph of cracking on the north end and texted it to his employer, according to lawsuits. Previously, the first known pictures of post-placement cracks were taken three days after the move. In March 2016, one month after FIGG produced a set of early design-build plans, FDOT engineer Tom Andres, who was concerned about cracks forming in the "tricky" design, asked a FIGG engineer if the firm had considered a different design "a real cable stay" bridge, where cables attached to the 109-foot-high upper pylon would help support the deck and canopy. Andres calls the FIGG design a "fake cable stay" because the tubes that were to extend down to the canopy were largely ornamental. FIGG stayed with the fake cable-stay design, its plans state. FDOT allowed FIGG to proceed to final plans without having them double-checked by an independent peer reviewer, which the contract specified should be done when the 90 percent plans were submitted. FIGG wanted to do its own review out of another firm office, but FDOT insisted they get someone independent, according to email exchanges reviewed by NBC6 Investigators. By the time FIGG executed a $61,000 agreement with that independent firm, Louis Berger, one of the sets of plans had already been certified by a Louis Berger engineer and all required plans did get certified eventually. Andres wanted to know for months where FIGG intended to place two transporters to lift the bridge from its roadside construction site and place it over Eighth Street. In March 2017, FIGG said the transporters would be directly beneath where diagonal trusses met closest to each edge of the span. But on Sept. 18, 2017, FIGG accepted a change in plans that put the north transporter more than 7 feet farther away from the edge something that would change the forces applied to the north side of the bridge during the lift-move-and-place operation. Records released so far do not show FDOT's engineer being informed of the change; nor do they show revised plans adjusting post-tension bar forces to accommodate what Brizuela said would have been a significant change in forces exerted on the north end of the bridge during the move. The move on March 10 had to be stopped 10 to 15 times because the span twisted greater than one half of one degree -- requiring workers to readjust rigging supports each time, according to the claims administrator for BDI's insurer. When it was lowered into place, the readings were slightly over one half of one degree. The bridge was straightened prior to being put it in place and engineers on site agreed it was a successful move. A call to BDI seeking further explanation has so far gone unanswered. Exactly how significant any of those issues is remains cloaked in secrecy imposed by the National Transportation Safety Board, which is forbidding any of the parties to their investigation from commenting. It also has issued a blackout on all documents created after Feb. 19. 2018, until its investigation is completed. The NTSB says the cutoff date was "not arbitrary." The NTSB "determined that while the earlier information is important, it is not as critical to the investigations as information after that date." An NTSB lawyer this week said he expects the investigative report will not be done until possibly late September, a lawyer for plaintiffs told a judge this week. NBC 6s Tony Pipitone speaks to the family of Alexa Duran, who died after a pedestrian bridge above her at FIU collapsed. What we know for certain is this: At 1:47 p.m. last March 15, as the re-stressing of the bars in Member 11 continued, a failure occurred and the 950-ton structure crumbled onto SW Eighth Street, killing five people in vehicles: Alexa Duran, 18; Brandon Brownfield, 39; Alberto Arias, 53; Osvaldo Gonzalez, 57; and Rolando Fraga Hernandez, 60; and one worker, Navaro Brown, 37, who was on the bridge canopy at the time. A co-worker, the one who texted a photograph of cracking on March 10, Kevin Lee Hanson, suffered a critical brain injury and remains in a neurological rehabilitation facility. Joe Biden isn't a presidential candidate yet. But with two key rivals already getting out of the way, the former vice president has more space to court voters who could help him claim the Democratic nomination. Ohio Sen. Sherrod Brown said Thursday he wouldn't run for president, following an announcement earlier this week from former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg that he would also sit out 2020. Both men have vastly different political profiles. Brown has deep connections to blue-collar, union-friendly voters in the Midwest while Bloomberg saw his path to the nomination run through centrists uncomfortable with the party's move to the left. But together, their decisions could give Biden a greater opportunity to appeal to the middle-America voters who sided with President Donald Trump in 2016 and could be crucial to Democratic hopes of winning back the White House. "I think it certainly creates a whole new constituency for the vice president that might have been split otherwise," California Sen. Dianne Feinstein, who has vowed to support Biden if he runs, said soon after Brown's announcement. "So, that's good." Chris Coons, elected in 2010 to fill the Delaware Senate seat Biden occupied for 36 years, said Brown's decision not to run "absolutely" strengthened the former vice president's case. Brown "comes from and connects to the heartland in a remarkable way. He's a real guy," Coons said, likening his appeal to Biden's. Bloomberg's aides said their internal polling suggested his path to the Democratic nomination was narrow, particularly if Biden who shares some of Bloomberg's moderate positions decides to run. Brown, in contrast, denied that the former vice president had any effect on his choice to opt out of the primary. "His getting in or out had zero impact on this," the 66-year-old senator said of Biden. Brown told reporters that he and Biden talk "from time to time" but had last connected before his Senate re-election win in November, "when he was in Ohio campaigning with me or for me." Biden spokesman Bill Russo declined to comment on either Bloomberg or Brown's decisions against running in 2020. Of course, if Brown had sought the presidency, he would have faced a steep challenge in climbing ahead from the back of the pack in a field with a dozen candidates already declared. Biden and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders consistently lead in early surveys of the 2020 Democratic field, and former Texas Rep. Beto O'Rourke could shake up the race if he decides to run. Brown's departure also provides a possible boost to Sanders, given their shared distaste for free-trade deals and vocal criticism of Wall Street. Although Brown leans further left on policy than Bloomberg or Biden especially when it comes to trade the senator and former vice president have a parallel appeal to working-class voters who fled their party for Trump. Biden's ties to his hardscrabble hometown of Scranton, Pennsylvania, have made him a compelling messenger for the plight of blue-collar workers whose jobs and livelihoods remain under threat by globalization and outsourcing. His role in an Obama administration that poured billions of dollars into rescuing the U.S. auto industry from the 2008 financial crisis also gives him a unique opportunity to connect with Midwestern voters. "It's a mantle that is open to be grabbed by people who are willing to talk to these voters in an authentic way, in sharing their frustrations," said Tom Russell, a Wisconsin-based Democratic strategist who aided the party's successful effort to topple GOP Gov. Scott Walker in 2018. "Biden has a history of being able to do that," Russell said, though he added that Brown's absence from the race creates potential advantages for O'Rourke, who has elements of the more centrist profile that Biden and Bloomberg would bring, as well as for Sanders. Brown "was Bernie without some of the Bernie baggage," Russell said. Still, Biden will have to confront several vulnerabilities. He is famously prone to gaffes and angered some in the LGBT community last week when he called Vice President Mike Pence a "decent guy." The decades in public life that he often portrays as an asset also carries challenges. The Washington Post, for instance, reported on Thursday that Biden opposed bussing children in the mid-1970s as schools sought to further integrate classrooms. Russo said Biden is a longtime civil rights advocate who supports equal housing, education and job opportunities. But such comments from decades ago could seem tone-deaf in a Democratic primary heralded for its historic diversity. Ultimately, Democrats are weighing how to keep their grip on progressives without alienating Midwestern voters. Ohio Democratic Party Chairman David Pepper said Brown has proved that's possible by winning over some voters in his battleground home state in 2018 who backed Trump in 2016. "Any candidate can" succeed in Ohio "if they are focused on the right issues, and if they come across as someone who will fight for the everyday Ohio worker," Pepper said. "Certainly, Joe Biden is somebody I think would have a very good chance of beating Trump in Ohio. But I'm quick to say I don't think other candidates couldn't do the same thing." Associated Press writers Tom Beaumont in Des Moines, Iowa, and Julie Pace in Washington contributed to this report. Former Texas Rep. Ralph Hall, the oldest-ever member of the U.S. House and a man who claimed to have once sold cigarettes and Coca-Cola to the bank-robbing duo of Bonnie and Clyde, has died at age 95. The Republican and World War II pilot died at his home in Rockwall on Thursday morning, said Ed Valentine, Hall's longtime strategist. Asked about a cause of death, Valentine simply cited Hall's age, saying he hadn't been suffering from any known long term ailments. Former Rep. Ralph Hall, a political survivor whose career mirrored the massive partisan shift that marked the last 50 years of Texas politics and made him the oldest person to ever serve in the U.S. House, died Thursday. He was 95. Hall was 91 when he left the House, after being defeated in a 2014 Republican primary runoff election by John Ratcliffe. The former U.S. attorney was less than half Hall's age and well-schooled in digital and data-heavy campaigning. Hall won the 2012 Republican primary despite a tea party challenge. But he lost in a primary upset in 2014 to John Ratcliffe. On the night he lost, Hall said he'd wasn't quitting. "I am not going to retire and I'm sure not going to quit. I have a job until the 31st day of December. How many other 91-year-old men can say that," Hall said. Ratcliffe, after learning of Hall's death, released the following statement Thursday afternoon. An avid jogger who began his days with 2-mile runs, Hall marked Memorial Day 2012 -- when he was 89 -- by skydiving to honor American service members. That Christmas he became the oldest member of Congress' lower chamber, breaking the record set by North Carolina Rep. Charles Manly Stedman, who died in office when he was 89 years, 7 months and 25 days old. "I'm just an old guy -- lived pretty clean," Hall said just after breaking the record. "I have no ailments. I don't hurt anywhere. I may run again. I'll just wait and see." Getting ousted by his own party in 2014 came a decade after Hall became a Republican as Texas moved farther to the right. Hall served 12 terms in Congress as a Democrat but announced in January 2004 that he'd made the switch, backed by his friend, George W. Bush, who released the following statement early Thursday afternoon: Hall, who flew Hellcat fighters during World War II, was known in Congress for promoting NASA and energy production. Hailing from the town of Rockwall, east of Dallas, he was fond of saying that he voted with his party often but always voted with his district. But he was probably most popular for mailing or personally dolling out pennies fitted with a special silver band bearing his name. Only three U.S. senators were older than Hall while still serving in Congress: South Carolina Republican Strom Thurmond, who was 100 when he retired in 2003; Democrat Theodore Francis Green of Rhode Island, who left the Senate at age 93; and West Virginia Democrat Robert Byrd, who died in office in 2010 at age 92. Hall stuck to retail politicking, preferring to greet voters personally rather than organize formal campaign stops, and was ever quick with a joke or a story. That was enough to retain his House seat in 2012, when he bested tea party primary opponent Steve Clark. The telecommunications executive spent around $100,000 of his own money on the failed campaign that was also supported by grassroots groups targeting incumbents. But in 2014, Ratcliffe painted his opponent as a do-little Washington insider. He noted that Hall had represented the district so long that he had an airport, lake and highway named after him. Ratcliffe also used targeted data to bring that message to likely Republican voters. Hall tried to modernize with the times, joining Twitter in 2013 and marking former President Ronald Reagan's 102nd birthday with his first Tweet. But that proved no match for Ratcliffe, who ran unopposed in the deeply red district in November 2014 general election. Ralph Moody Hall was born on May 3, 1923, in Fate, Texas. He attended Texas Christian University and the University of Texas, before earning a law degree at Southern Methodist University in 1951. While working in a pharmacy in his hometown as a boy, Hall said then-fugitives Clyde Barrow and Bonnie Parker used curb-side service. Hall said they bought "two cartons of Old Golds, two Coca-Colas and all the newspapers we had." "He was a funny looking little guy. She was acceptable looking," Hall said in 2014. "I saw them. But I don't think it's that unusual. They were a lot of places." [NATL] In Memoriam: Influential People We've Lost in 2019 Like his father, Hall worked in the energy sector, helping run bulldozers during the construction of a pipeline before joining the Navy at age 19. He married Mary Ellen Murphy in November 1944, while serving in Pensacola, Florida. The couple had three sons: Hampton, Brett and Blakeley. After World War II, Hall returned to practice law in Rockwall County, where he served as a judge from 1950 to 1962. He was elected the following year to the Texas Senate. He ran unsuccessfully in the 1972 Democratic primary for lieutenant governor and left the chamber the following January. Hall was president and chief executive officer of Texas Aluminum Corp. and general counsel of Texas Extrusion Co. Inc. He was a counsel for the aircraft parts maker Howmet Corporation from 1970 to 1974. Winning a U.S. House seat in 1980, Hall came to Washington just as Ronald Reagan's presidency began. Hall was among the Democratic conservatives who sided with Reagan on key budget issues, favoring efforts to reduce federal spending. He voted against the North American Free Trade Agreement and was an original co-sponsor of bills to repeal the estate tax and the marriage tax penalty. Hall also supported a resolution allowing America's use of force in Iraq, and voted "present" in January 2003 rather than vote for Nancy Pelosi in her bid for minority leader. Two months later, he voted for a budget that included Bush's 10-year, $726 billion tax-cut plan. After becoming a Republican, Hall leaned heavily on Bush, a former Texas governor, and got strong White House backing in 2004's three-way GOP primary, winning 77 percent of the vote. In 2009, he opposed the federal bailout of the financial industry and the economic stimulus package, and was a harsh critic of federal health care reform when it was debated and ultimately approved by Congress in 2010. Two years later, Hall was appointed chairman of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee. That October, when the Environmental Protection Agency proposed easing pollution restrictions that had angered several states, Hall said EPA's revision proved its rules were not based on sound science. "As we have seen in Texas and throughout the United States, pursing an EPA-knows-best approach to compliance will unquestionably result in increased unemployment, power plant shutdowns and more expensive, less reliable energy," he said. After the primary defeat to Ratcliffe, Hall injured his hip in car crash, and his recovery kept him away from Washington for much of the remainder of a term that formally ended in 2015. Hall is survived by his three children. His wife died in 2008 at age 83, after 63 years of marriage. People of all faiths came together to support a local mosque and pray for the victims of two deadly mosque shootings in New Zealand Friday night. Religious leaders held an interfaith service at the Albanian American Muslim Community Center in Waterbury. Those who came say the devastating attacks wont tear them apart. At least 49 people were shot to death at two mosques during midday prayers in the city of Christchurch. It's hard to understand that one person's hatred boils up to such a point where they would go into a place of worship and kill people while they're praying. It's just incomprehensible, said James Robertson, associate minister of First Congregational Church in Waterbury. That incomprehensible violence in New Zealand shook communities around the world. But instead of grieving alone, many came together. Fridays interfaith ceremony was a place to show strength and unity. We all share the same values; we all share the same pain, and we will build trust and peace, said Imam Gazmend Aga of the Albanian Muslim Community. Aga says priests, pastors and rabbis all reached out Friday morning, offering their prayers and support. He said theyve always been there for each other during times of tragedy. We have all been victims of terror, mass murder, threats. This isn't going to stop our way of life, Jade Stoltz, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Western Connecticut said. The city also reached out to show its support, and police stood guard outside during the service, to let the Muslim community know theyre there too. The imam says Waterbury is a great family and that its important for everyone to understand each other better. People have fear for the unknown. .I think that we should start knowing better our neighbors, Aga said. Police say theyre speaking to leaders in the community and have patrols out during times of service A Connecticut lawmaker who supports eliminating the religious exemption from vaccinations for public school students is holding an informational forum on the science behind vaccines. Democratic Rep. Josh Elliott of Hamden says he's concerned the "pseudo-science" fueling fear among a "vocal minority" about vaccine safety. He's organized a forum Tuesday at the Legislative Office Building with experts, including professors from Yale University. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an environmental lawyer and president of Children's Health Defense is also scheduled to participate on the panel. Kennedy is a vaccine skeptic and has testified in other states against legislation requiring vaccinations. Kennedy is scheduled to appear later Tuesday at a separate event organized by two lawmakers concerned about vaccines. The legislature's Conservative Caucus has announced it opposes eliminating the religious exemption for vaccines. A small but significant piece of Galveston and American history has been commemorated with the unveiling of the latest Texas historical marker on the island, behind the 1838 Michel B. Menard House on 33rd Street. The Galveston County Daily News reports the Mexican Telegraph Company, which resided on the island from the late 19th century through 1949, and its most famous telegram, the Zimmermann Telegram, thought to be a significant catalyst for America's commitment of soldiers to World War I, are memorialized on the marker. It stands next to a small white building in the Menard House's backyard. Formerly the property of the Pompeo Urbani family, who ran a grocery store at 19th Street and Avenue O in Galveston for most of the 20th century, the small building was a shed next to their store for many years. Before the Urbanis owned the small white shed, it housed the mechanics of the Mexican Telegraph Company, conduit of all telegrams from Mexico, South and Central America to the United States, through Galveston by way of a cable stretched beneath the Gulf of Mexico. In 1917, the Mexican Telegraph Company at Galveston re-transmitted a telegram from German foreign secretary Arthur Zimmermann to the German envoy to Mexico. The secret telegram, encrypted in code, was intercepted and translated by British agents, however, and its shocking contents were soon leaked to the American press after the Brits turned the message over to the U.S. government. "Basically, it said that if Mexico would enter the war on behalf of the Germans, then Texas, New Mexico and Arizona would be given back to Mexico," said Dwayne Jones, director of the Galveston Historical Foundation, to the small crowd gathered for the unveiling. Among those present were members of the Urbani family and members of the Fred and Pat Burns family who owned and restored the Menard House before giving it to the historical foundation in the 1990s. The Burns family aided the foundation in moving the small white house from its Avenue O location to the Menard House when it was in danger of being demolished in the late 1990s. Since then, the foundation has hoped to permanently commemorate the building's historic significance with a marker. Jones held up the front page of the March 1, 1917, Galveston Daily News, speculating in a tall headline whether the United States would enter World War I after the revelation of the Zimmermann Telegram. President Woodrow Wilson had wanted to keep America out of the war, but public sentiment was roused by the telegram, and some historians speculate the threat of its message spurred America's entry into the war against Germany, declared by Congress in April 1917. "The telegram is a famous part of World War I, a critical although sometimes debated story about how the U.S. entered the war," Jones said. "When word of the telegram came out, it galvanized people somewhat. "Historians still debate the influence of the telegram on the United States' decision to enter the war, but it all happened through this little building." Twenty million died and another 20 million were injured in what came to be known as The Great War. The war changed history forever by introducing counter-intelligence into foreign and military affairs, Jones said. Looking on, Pompeo Urbani's son, who grew up above the family store, helped unveil the marker, then stood quietly reading it. "We didn't think much of it," he said to a woman standing nearby. "You know how it is, you just don't." "Yes, that's true," she said. "But it's all connected, it's all a small part of one big story." College admissions officers comb through stacks of applications, essays, GPA scores and and more to select the few students who will be accepted, and two former officers from prestigious schools told NBC News what that process looks like as it comes under scrutiny after a massive college bribery scheme was uncovered. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology's former director of undergraduate selection, McGreggor Crowley, said that it doesn't long to see if a student will be competitive: "We see so many transcripts that, in about a third of a second, we can tell what type of trajectory the student is on." And while Crowley said that the process is so huge that he doesn't expect it "to be purely meritocratic," both he and former Columbia Univeristy admissions officer Eric Sherman said mid-level admissions officers strive to consider applicants in good faith and on the basis of their records. These officers are the gatekeepers of what has become a deeply competitive and, for many, a deeply unequal process for high school students where only a tiny fraction of applicants are accepted. The federal case brought this week against 50 people, including CEOs and Hollywood stars, suggests that some rich and powerful families use their wealth to illegally subvert the process and gain an advantage. Animal shelters from around Georgia were called in to help authorities rescue 700 dogs from a home in Valdosta. News outlets report the shelters say the dogs were kept in small cages, and many of the animals rescued on Saturday had never been walked or held before. One shelter, Release Atlanta, calls it "an extreme hoarding puppy mill case." A transport coordinator with the Humane Society in Valdosta, Tim Hill, says the dogs did appear to have been fed and watered. He says the owner had asked for help from the state Department of Agriculture. Reason Craig Gray, 58, of Nashville, was facing charges of animal cruelty and obstruction, the Berrien County Sheriffs Office said in a statement late Thursday. Gray ran a licensed pet-breeding business known as Georgia Puppies. It sold miniature breeds including teacup Yorkies and toy poodles for up to $600 per dog. Releash Atlanta, an organization caring for eight of the rescued animals, said they "flinch at the feeling of grass under their feet" and were used to sleeping standing up. In a statement posted on Facebook, the Atlanta Humane Society said the animals "have been living in crates their whole lives one tiny crate stacked on top of another. Theyre matted, covered in feces and have never been held or walked." The Humane Society previously named Gray on its "Horrible Hundred 2018" list of problem puppy mills and puppy sellers in the United States. The Georgia Department of Agriculture inspected his facility last week. Gray initially voluntarily surrendered 630 of the dogs, but police say he admitted to subsequently bringing puppies back onto the property. An additional 85 dogs were rescued Thursday after a search warrant was obtained. The shelters say the dogs will be up for adoption once rehabilitated. In July 2018, Isaac Christian was among 28 students and 4 chaperones who traveled from Parkland, Florida, to the University of Canterbury in Christchurch a visit intended to help the students cope with the shooting they had survived at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. When Christian saw the news that a gunman had entered two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, he frantically began sending text messages. Its kind of like the same feelings as when our school shooting happened. It felt so surreal, Christian, 17, a junior at Stoneman Douglas, said of the latest massacre. A U.S. Marshals task force officer was fatally shot while trying to serve an arrest warrant at a Rockford hotel Thursday morning and the suspect was apprehended after he fled more than 100 miles south, authorities said. The officer was identified as deputy sheriff Jacob Keltner, who served with the McHenry County Sheriff's office for almost 13 years. He died shortly after 3:30 p.m., according to Chief Administrative Officer Dave Devane of the McHenry County Sheriff's office. Keltner's accused killer, 39-year-old Floyd E. Brown, now faces first-degree murder charges. Keltner was married and had two children, officials said. "For those of us in the McHenry County Sheriffs Office, this is bitter news," McHenry County Sheriff Bill Prim said in a statement. "Deputy Keltner was an integral part of our office, someone who had risen quickly to greater responsibilities after he was first sworn in in 2006. He was loved and respected by all his colleagues, and he will be sorely missed." Illinois State Police said officers pursued Brown before his vehicle was struck by a police cruiser and crashed in a rural area along Interstate 55 in Logan County. He was apprehended after an hourslong standoff with state police and SWAT officers, authorities said. The standoff shut down I-55 in both directions near Lincoln for hours. Route 60 was also temporarily shut down in the area and Amtrak's Lincoln Train 303, which travels between Chicago and St. Louis, was stopped south of Bloomington-Normal for the police activity. The incident began at the Extended Stay hotel off North Bell School Road, where authorities initially said officers were investigating an "active shooter" situation. A U.S. Marshals task force officer was fatally shot while trying to serve an arrest warrant at a Rockford hotel Thursday morning and the suspect was apprehended after he fled more than 100 miles south, authorities said. Trina Orlando reports. Rockford police said members of the Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Apprehension Task Force were attempting to serve an arrest warrant around 9:15 a.m. when they were fired on. Police said shots were fired inside the hotel and in the parking lot after authorities said they believed the suspect, armed with a rifle, fled the hotel out of a third-floor window. A McHenry County Sheriff's deputy working on the task force was hit by gunfire in the parking lot and was taken to a hospital in critical condition, according to police. The officer was pronounced dead hours later. A woman described by police as "a female acquaintance of the suspect" was also shot "inside the hotel," police said. The gunshot was not believed to be from law enforcement and the wound did not appear to be life-threatening, according to authorities. She was treated and released. A U.S. Marshals task force officer was fatally shot while trying to serve an arrest warrant at a Rockford hotel Thursday morning and the suspect was apprehended after he fled more than 100 miles south, authorities said. Phil Rogers reports. Residents were advised to avoid the area near the hotel. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and numerous other departments also responded to the scene. Police spokesman Andre Brass said that Brown has no known ties to Rockford but is from central Illinois. Police said he was wanted on warrants out of several Illinois counties and was recently identified as a burglary suspect in December in Bloomington, Illinois. Bloomington police said Brown fled from police and eluded officers who were investigating burglaries in the area. A reward of up to $1,000 was being offered for information leading to his arrest at the time. Extended Stay said it was "working with proper authorities to ensure the safety of our guests and employees." "Our thoughts and prayers are with the officer and his family," the hotel said in a statement. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker said he was "closely monitoring the active shooter incident in Rockford" and urged members of the community "to follow the instructions of local law enforcement." "My immediate thoughts and prayers are with the officer shot, his family, first responders & residents affected by this situation," Pritzker wrote. Sen. Dick Durbin also said he was tracking updates and thanked law enforcement "who are responding to the emergency." After the standoff came to an end, Brown was hospitalized with non-life threatening injuries related to the crash. He was last placed in ISP custody, but authorities said he will "eventually be turned over to the Federal Bureau of Investigation." First and foremost, we would like to extend our deepest condolences to the McHenry County Sheriffs Office and the family of Deputy Keltner, ISP Acting Director Brendan F. Kelly said. The men and women of the Illinois State Police, including responding Troopers from District 16, District 1, District 15, District 6, District 8, and District 9, all responded with seamless professionalism alongside the law enforcement of this state. ISPs SWAT team in particular showed incredible tactical restraint, bravery and boldness today. This dark day has come to an end, and this defendant can now be brought to justice." Though President Donald Trump downplayed the threat of violent White Nationalism Friday hours after an accused terrorist, who identified himself as a White Nationalist, killed 49 people at a New Zealand mosque, a local civil rights attorney fears its a threat that will only grow stronger. President Trump was asked about White Nationalism and the shooting deaths of 49 people at mosques in Christchurch, and said "I don't, really" when asked whether he thought it was a rising threat around the world. New Zealand police say the suspect is a White Nationalist who hated immigrants, but he was not on any watch lists. Now, investigators in New Zealand and Australia are trying to figure out more about what led up to the shooting, and if the suspect had any help. In the eyes of Civil rights attorney Jim McElroy, a local longtime board member of the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), we are not doing nearly enough as a culture to address domestic terrorism committed by white supremacists. McElroy argues it's too easy to radicalize young men on the internet with messages of hate. White Supremacy and violence stemming from White Supremacists is a growing problem in the United States and internationally, he said. McElroy has worked on hate crimes with the ACLU and the SPLC. When he learned the 28-year-old suspect accused of carrying out the deadly New Zealand attacks appeared to have a manifesto supporting white supremacy, he wasnt surprised. According to McElroy, there are two problems. First, he drew a line connecting the New Zealand attacker, Charleston, S.C., church shooter Dylann Roof and Pittsburgh synagogue shooter Robert Bowers. The common thread between these horrific acts of violence are White Supremacy, and [that the suspects are] almost entirely radicalized on the internet, McElroy said. He says American White Supremacy themes are far-reaching, and Come right out of the alt-right, anti-immigrant, anti-Muslim handbook. Secondly, McElroy points to President Trump's past rhetoric towards Muslims and Latinos. It feeds that fire and I think it's terribly irresponsible for politicians to talk that way, he said. Since the New Zealand attack the president declined to join expressions of mounting concern about White Nationalism. I think it's a small group of people that have very, very serious problems. I guess if you look at what happened in New Zealand, perhaps that's a case. I dont know enough about it yet, he said. Defenders of the president say too many look to blame him for others' wrongdoing. I'm not saying he pulled the trigger or he's directly responsible, but I'm saying when hate seeps into the mainstream, it's a problem, McElroy said. McElroy says he expects more from social media giants YouTube and Facebook to curb hate speech or actions. He also encourages parents to have dialogues with their children early on about hate, before the internet takes the lead. A fire at the Phillips 66 refinery in Carson burned for more than two hours Friday night before being knocked down. Los Angeles County Fire Department crews were called about 7:15 p.m. to the refinery in the 1500 block of East Sepulveda Boulevard, a dispatcher said. The fire involved three high-pressure crude pumps, according to Capt. Tony Imbrenda, public information officer with the Los Angeles County Fire Department. The fire was knocked down about 9:30 p.m., Imbrenda said. No evacuations were ordered, but a shelter in place order for area residents was lifted shortly before 10 p.m., according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. The fire did not cause any injuries, according to Dennis Nuss of Phillips 66. The fire prompted the closure of Sepulveda Boulevard in both directions between Alameda Street and Wilmington Avenue, according to the sheriff's department. Imbrenda said checks of air quality indicated there was no threat to the public. The Mexican government is launching a plan to give Mexicans living in the United States a voice on national policy. The Institute for Mexicans Abroad is planning to hold open-ended public consultation sessions from mid-March to mid-April in 13 U.S. cities. The forums will start on Sunday in San Francisco and end in Chicago on April 12 and New York on April 13. The head of the Institute said Thursday that Mexicans can participate whether they are long-time established migrants or recent arrivals without proper documents. "These are 12 million countrymen whose voices have never been heard before at this level," said the head of the institute, Roberto Valdovinos. The consultative forums will be held in San Diego, Sacramento, Fresno and Los Angeles, and also in the Texas cities of Dallas, Houston, San Antonio and El Paso. Phoenix and Tucson will also have dates. The forums won't be yes-or-no votes, but rather a chance for Mexicans abroad to contribute ideas on Mexico's national development plan. Valdovinos said the administration of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador is hoping to put together a comprehensive plan for Mexicans returning or deported from the United States, including points like making it easier for them to get their U.S. educational records transferred to Mexico. While such plans have been attempted in the past, they frequently never made it out to their outlying towns many migrants come from. "These (programs) are often mandated on a national level, but out in the townships they aren't enforced, because of inertia," Valdovinos said. Lopez Obrador has said that his hope is to create enough jobs in Mexico so that Mexicans no longer have to migrate, and that eventually the United States will be asking for Mexicans to come. A 23-year-old man was arrested in Pomona Saturday morning on suspicion of being a gang member in possession of a loaded firearm after he ran from police and was later found hiding inside a refrigerator in the backyard of a home. At 12:30 a.m., members of the Pomona Police Department's Major Crimes Task Force and California Highway Patrol officers working gang suppression in the 100 block of West Kingsley Avenue, near Garey Avenue, attempted to stop a vehicle for code violations, according to Pomona police Cpl. J. Hernandez. The driver stopped abruptly and a passenger got out of the vehicle and ran into a neighborhood, scaling fences in an attempt to get away from police, Hernandez said. Officers set up a containment area and requested the department's helicopter, which picked up a heat source in the backyard of a home within the containment area, Hernandez said. The helicopter pilot directed police to the location where the suspect, identified as Michael Lopez of Upland, was hiding in a refrigerator, Hernandez said. Lopez was taken into custody and a search of the area turned up a loaded gun. Officers also found a second gun magazine and drugs on Lopez, Hernandez said. Lopez was booked at the Pomona City Jail on a variety of felony gun and drug charges. What to Know Firefighters battled a massive, 9-alarm blaze in East Boston on Friday afternoon. The fire was reported around 3 p.m. at the New England Casket Company. Residents of the area around the fire were evacuated, but allowed back in their homes later Friday night. Residents who evacuated the Orient Heights area of East Boston were allowed to return to their homes Friday night after firefighters spent hours battling a massive 9-alarm fire. Boston Fire Commissioner Joseph Finn said three buildings suffered collapses during the fire, which was reported shortly after 3 p.m. at the New England Casket Company on Bennington Street. Crews fought flames and hazardous chemicals while dealing with water supply issues. Heavy flames were knocked down by around 10:30 p.m. "We got a bit of a handle on the fire," Finn said Friday night. "We have multiple collapses of three buildings. We have some fire that's trapped throughout the three buildings." Heavy fire and smoke were reported throughout the building, Boston Fire said. All fire companies were ordered out of the building and off the roof soon after they arrived at the scene. "The building's in a very dangerous state right now, but we're in pretty good shape," Finn said. "We've allowed residents to go back into their homes. We've been monitoring the air quality since early evening, and it's at acceptable levels for allowing people to go back into their homes." Earlier, police went door to door telling residents to get out. Everyone was out of the building where the fire broke out quickly, and no serious injuries were reported. Finn said two Boston Police officers were transported for smoke inhalation, two Boston firefighters were transported for exhaution, and a Chelsea firefighter suffered a leg injury. Aerial footage from NBC10 Boston's SkyRanger showed firefighters attacking the flames from above with the help of more than a half dozen ladder trucks. Fire officials said as many as 100 firefighters from Boston and neighboring Chelsea were fighting the blaze. They are expected to be there throughout the night and into Saturday. Finn said the structure is one main building connected with other buildings. He said one of the main issues was getting water to the structure. "Our issue was water. And we need pumps. We had us going through a relay operation to get water down to the building so it takes a number of pumps along that circuit to get that moving," said Finn. He added that chemicals inside the building compounded the firefighters' issues. "Our concerned now is there's a bunch of chemicals in the building that are used as lacquers and thinners and things like that that are bringing a concern to us," said Finn. "Grateful for the incredible bravery and hard work of our first responders battling the fire in East Boston," Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker said in a tweet. "We will continue to support the Orient Heights neighborhood and all those affected, and we urge residents to respect the guidance & direction of public safety officials." "My heart goes out to our neighbors in East Boston dealing with a terrifying fire this evening," Sen. Elizabeth Warren tweeted. "We're all grateful for our brave @BostonFire firefighters & first responders who put their lives on the line today & every day to keep us safe." "This is for me, is the biggest fire that I've seen as mayor of the city," said Marty Walsh, who was on scene with Finn. "I'm just grateful that no one's hurt. We just want to look out for the well-being of the fire department that's here." The MBTA said Blue Line service was suspended between Orient Heights and Wonderland for eastbound and westbound service at the request of the fire department. Shuttle buses are replacing service in both directions. According to its website, New England Casket Company has been in business in East Boston for 77 years. The current owner, Louis Tobia Jr., is the third generation associated with the company. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Gail Lashoto, who said she is Tobia's cousin, lives in East Boston and was at the fire scene on Friday. "It's heartbreaking to see this," she said. "Unfortunately, this is the end result of 77 years of business. It's very, very sad." What to Know An 11-year-old is in police custody in connection to a double shooting on Friday morning in Alton, New Hampshire. The Union Leader reports that one of the shooting victims has died. Two local schools were temporarily placed in lockdown in the wake of the incident. An 11-year-old is in custody after allegedly killing two adults in a shooting Friday in the Lakes Region town of Alton, New Hampshire. The New Hampshire Attorney General's Office said Friday night that 50-year-old Lizette Eckert, who had suffered a gunshot wound, was found dead after police responded to a 911 call on Dobbins Way around 7:30 a.m. Her husband, James Eckert, 48, was also found shot. James Eckert was taken to Portsmouth Regional Hospital in critical condition but was pronounced dead later Friday night, the New Hampshire Attorney General's Office said. An autopsy was completed Saturday on Lizette Eckert. The manner of her death was ruled a homicide and the cause of death was a single gunshot wound to the head. An autopsy has been scheduled Monday for James Eckert. According to Geoffrey Ward, a senior assistant attorney general, the juvenile suspect was apprehended around 9:30 a.m. He was charged with one count of reckless second-degree murder and one count of attempted murder. The charges filed are under the juvenile system. It's not immediately clear if he'll face additional charges now that James Eckert has died from his injuries. Because of the suspect's age, Ward said limited information would be made available to the public. Officials said there is no danger to the general public. The nearby Alton Central and Prospect Mountain High schools were placed in lockdown during the time when Ward said authorities were searching for the suspect. "There is no current threat to ACS," Alton Central School Principal John MacArthur said in an email. "As a precautionary measure we have activated a secure campus. Nobody is permitted in or out of the building until we are given an all clear." State police tweeted around 9:45 a.m. that the "critical incident" had come to a conclusion and the schools lifted the lockdowns shortly after. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call New Hampshire State Police at 603-223-4381. A U.S. Navy veteran from California has been sentenced to 10 years in prison in Iran, his lawyer said Saturday, becoming the first American known to be imprisoned there since President Donald Trump took office. Though the case against Michael R. White remains unclear, it comes as Trump has taken a hard-line approach to Iran by pulling the U.S. out of Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers. Iran, which in the past has used its detention of Westerners and dual nationals as leverage in negotiations, has yet to report on White's sentence in state-controlled media. Its mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment. "Obviously the concern is that the Iranians are using this as a tool against the United States, given the other individuals who are in custody," Washington-based lawyer Mark Zaid told The Associated Press. White's arrest was first reported by IranWire, an online news service run by Iranian expatriates, which interviewed a former Iranian prisoner who said he met White at Vakilabad Prison in the northeastern city of Mashhad in October. In the time since, White has been convicted of insulting Iran's supreme leader and posting private information online, Zaid said. He said the information surrounding the case remained vague. He learned of the sentence from the State Department, which in turn learned of it from the Swiss government, which looks after American interests in Iran. The State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment Saturday. The New York Times first reported White's 10-year sentence. White's mother, Joanne White, had told the Times that her son, who lives in Imperial Beach, California, went to Iran to see a woman she described as his girlfriend and had booked a July 27 flight back home to San Diego via the United Arab Emirates. She filed a missing person report with the State Department after he did not board the flight. She added that he had been undergoing treatment for a neck tumor and has asthma. White worked as a cook in the U.S. Navy and left the service about a decade ago. Zaid said Saturday that White apparently traveled to Mashhad without informing the woman in advance. It remains difficult for Americans to get visas to Iran, 40 years after the Islamic Revolution and the U.S. Embassy hostage crisis. "That's certainly our concern, that's he's being used as a pawn," Zaid said. "But we're more in a confused state than an aware state." There are three other Americans known to be held in Iran. Iranian-American Siamak Namazi and his octogenarian father Baquer, a former UNICEF representative who served as governor of Iran's oil-rich Khuzestan province under the U.S.-backed shah, are both serving 10-year sentences on espionage charges. Iranian-American art dealer Karan Vafadari and his Iranian wife, Afarin Neyssari, received 27-year and 16-year prison sentences, respectively. Chinese-American graduate student Xiyue Wang was sentenced to 10 years in prison for allegedly "infiltrating" the country while doing doctoral research on Iran's Qajar dynasty. Iranian-American Robin Shahini was released on bail in 2017 after staging a hunger strike while serving an 18-year prison sentence for "collaboration with a hostile government." Shahini has since return to America and is now suing Iran in U.S. federal court. Also in an Iranian prison is Nizar Zakka, a U.S. permanent resident from Lebanon who advocated for internet freedom and has done work for the U.S. government. He was sentenced to 10 years on espionage-related charges. Former FBI agent Robert Levinson, who vanished in Iran in 2007 while on an unauthorized CIA mission, remains missing. Iran says that Levinson is not in the country and that it has no further information about him, though his family holds Tehran responsible for his disappearance. A Mexican journalist has again been ordered deported from the United States despite his fear that his past stories about corruption make him a target in one of the world's most dangerous countries for reporters. The attorney for Emilio Gutierrez Soto and his son, Oscar, said Thursday that he would appeal an immigration judge's decision denying them asylum. Judge Robert Hough's Feb. 28 order says Emilio Gutierrez Soto's testimony was not credible and that he had not shown that he would be singled out for his reporting on the Mexican military were he to return now. Press freedom advocates have highlighted Gutierrez's articles that alleged military forces were robbing and extorting local people in Chihuahua, which borders New Mexico and part of West Texas. He and Oscar Gutierrez Soto entered the U.S. in 2008. Gutierrez says he was threatened for writing those articles and fears he will be targeted if forced to return to Mexico. Hough said that those fears were "merely speculative" given the decade that's passed since the articles were published. The judge also said Mexico "has laws which protect free speech and the government generally respects these rights." Eight journalists were killed in Mexico last year in connection with their reporting work, according to Reporters Without Borders, more than any other country besides Afghanistan. Two journalists in Mexico have already been killed this year. In many parts of the country, drug cartels and organized crime gangs are largely free to harass and murder reporters with impunity. The asylum request made by Gutierrez and his son was first denied in July 2017, and they were taken into detention that December during a check-in with immigration authorities. The two were released in July, two months after an immigration appeals court ordered a new asylum hearing. Their attorney, Eduardo Beckett, said Thursday that the two were not under immediate threat of deportation after the order, but are under a "dark cloud ... which causes much anxiety and stress not knowing the final result." "It is well documented that persons who have filed complaints or have gone public against government authorities have paid with their lives," Beckett said in an email. The National Press Club said it would mobilize in support of the Gutierrez family. Emilio Gutierrez is currently serving a journalism fellowship at the University of Michigan. In a stunning rebuke, a dozen defecting Republicans joined Senate Democrats Thursday to block the national emergency that President Donald Trump declared so he could build his border wall with Mexico. The rejection capped a week of confrontation with the White House as both parties in Congress strained to exert their power in new ways. The 59-41 tally, following the Senate's vote a day earlier to end U.S. involvement in the war in Yemen, promised to force Trump into the first vetoes of his presidency. Trump had warned against both actions. Moments after Thursday's vote, the president tweeted a single word of warning: "VETO!" Two years into the Trump era, a defecting dozen Republicans, pushed along by Democrats, showed a willingness to take that political risk. Twelve GOP senators, including the party's 2012 presidential nominee, Mitt Romney of Utah, joined the dissent over the emergency declaration order that would enable the president to seize for the wall billions of dollars Congress intended elsewhere. "The Senate's waking up a little bit to our responsibilities," said Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., who said the chamber had become "a little lazy" as an equal branch of government. "I think the value of these last few weeks is to remind the Senate of our constitutional place." Many senators said the vote was not necessarily a rejection of the president or the wall, but protections against future presidents -- namely a Democrat who might want to declare an emergency on climate change, gun control or any number of other issues. "This is constitutional question, it's a question about the balance of power that is core to our constitution," Romney said. "This is not about the president," he added. "The president can certainly express his views as he has and individual senators can express theirs." Thursday's vote was the first direct challenge to the 1976 National Emergencies Act, just as Wednesday's on Yemen was the first time Congress invoked the decades-old War Powers Act to try to rein in a president. Seven Republicans joined Democrats in halting U.S. backing for the Saudi Arabia-led coalition in the aftermath of the kingdom's role in the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Even though there's not likely to be enough numbers to override a veto, the votes nevertheless sent a message from Capitol Hill. "Today's votes cap a week of something the American people haven't seen enough of in the last two years," said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, "both parties in the United States Congress standing up to Donald Trump." The result is a role-reversal for Republicans who have been reluctant to take on Trump, bracing against his high-profile tweets and public attacks of reprimand. But now they are facing challenges from voters in some states where senators face stiff elections -- who are expecting more from Congress. Centrist Maine GOP Sen. Susan Collins, who's among those most vulnerable in 2020, said she's sure the president "will not be happy with my vote. But I'm a United States senator and I feel my job is to stand up for the Constitution, so let the chips fall where they may." Trump's grip on the party, though, remains strong and the White House made it clear that Republicans resisting Trump could face political consequences. Ahead of the voting, Trump framed the issue as with-him-or-against-him on border security, a powerful argument with many. "A vote for today's resolution by Republican Senators is a vote for Nancy Pelosi, Crime, and the Open Border Democrats!" Trump tweeted. "Don't vote with Pelosi!" he said in another, referring to the speaker of the House. A White House official said Trump won't forget when senators who oppose him want him to attend fundraisers or provide other help. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly on internal deliberations. "I don't think anybody's sending the president a message," said Jim Risch of Idaho, the GOP chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. He blamed the media for "reaching" to view every action "through the prism of the presidency, and that isn't necessarily the way it works here." Trump brought on the challenge months ago when he all but dared Congress not to give him the $5.7 billion he was demanding to build the U.S.-Mexico wall or risk a federal government shutdown. Congress declined and the result was the longest shutdown in U.S. history. Against the advice of GOP leaders, Trump invoked the national emergency declaration last month, allowing him to try to tap some $3.6 billion for the wall by shuffling money from military projects, and that drew outrage from many lawmakers. Trump had campaigned for president promising Mexico would pay for the wall. The Constitution gives Congress the power of the purse, and lawmakers seethed as they worried about losing money for military projects that had already been approved for bases at home and abroad. The Democratic-led House swiftly voted to terminate Trump's order. Senate Republicans spent weeks trying to avoid this outcome, up until the night before the vote, in a script that was familiar -- up until the gavel. The most promising was an effort from Sen. Mike Lee of Utah for legislation that would impose limits on future presidential actions. That would give senators some solace as they allowed Trump's order to stand. GOP senators huddled with Vice President Mike Pence and seemed optimistic the White House might support their plan. Then Trump called Lee in the middle of a private Republican lunch meeting and, in the time it took the senator to step out of the room to take the call, it was over. Trump was opposed. Lee and other senators were peeling off against the president. In a last-ditch effort the night before the vote, Lindsey Graham and other senators dashed to the White House to try once again for Trump's support to broker an alternative plan. Trump was frustrated by their arrival. They mostly failed. Trump did tweet ahead of the vote that he would be willing to consider legislation to adjust the 1976 law at some later time. That was enough of a signal for GOP Sen. Thom Tillis, who faces a potentially tough re-election in North Carolina, to flip his vote, according to a person unauthorized to discuss the private thinking and granted anonymity. Tillis had been one of the first senators to say he would oppose the declaration, writing in a Washington Post opinion column last month that there'd be "no intellectual honesty" in backing Trump after his repeated objections about executive overreach by President Barack Obama. But on Thursday, he did. Trump's public support in that tweet also helped bring on board several other Republicans, including Ted Cruz and Ben Sasse, who had been part of the private huddles, the person said. For some, said Sen. John Thune, the GOP whip, "the emergency declaration was just a bridge too far." What to Know 28-year-old Rose Alcides Rivera told investigators she killed her daughter to "prevent her from having sex" with men She is charged with first-degree murder in the death of Aleyda Rivera Sheriff's investigators say a woman pulled up to a hospital in Orlando asking for help for her 11-year-old daughter, but she was already dead from multiple stab wounds. Then, they say 28-year-old Rose Alcides Rivera pulled a knife on hospital workers before being arrested on Sunday. She later told investigators she killed her daughter to "prevent her from having sex" with men. She is charged with first-degree murder in the death of Aleyda Rivera. The Orlando Sentinel reports the mother told first responders "my baby is gone." The child had 15 stab wounds. Sheriff's officials say the mother took the child to a man's house and accused him of having sex with the girl. The child denied it. She told authorities she stabbed the girl while in the car. A priest in Homestead has been charged with sexual battery of a physically incapacitated victim. Jean Claude Jean-Philippe, 64, bonded out of Miami-Dade County's Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center on Saturday. Philippe is listed as the Sacred Heart Catholic Church's parochial vicar. The church which originated in 1915 is located at 106 SE 1st Drive in Homestead. According to an arrest report, the victim is a 44-year-old woman. The woman told police that Philippe officiated her wedding and is her children's godfather. The victim says the incident happened in October of 2018. The arrest report states that Philippe offered her a non-alcoholic tea, which she accepted and drank. After she drank the beverage, the victim said she woke up naked in Philippe's bed. She told officials she cannot remember what happened during those two hours. She said she found Philippe standing over her in just his underwear. "We just hope it can be a false accusation," said a parishioner." On Friday, police found him and questioned him. He initially denied the allegations when confronted by the victim, but told police he massaged the victim while she was naked and then sexually assaulted her. "I was very surprised when I heard the news," said one parishioner. "I feel for the victim because she must have lost a lot of trust." He was then arrested and charged with sexual battery on a victim who was physically incapacitated. He bonded out of jail on Saturday. The Archdiocese of Miami released a statement saying, "Effective immediately, Archbishop Thomas Wenski has removed Fr. Jean-Philippe from Sacred Heart Catholic Church, placing him on administrative leave. The Archdiocese of Miami continues to fully cooperate with law enforcement as this allegation against Fr. Jean-Philippe continues to be investigated." The U.S. State Department said Friday that it is eliminating a coveted five-year tourist visa for Cubans, dealing a heavy blow to entrepreneurs and Cuban members of divided families, who used the visas to see relatives in the United States and buy precious supplies for their businesses on the island. The elimination of the visa cuts a vital link between the U.S. and Cuba by forcing Cubans to make a costly and complicated trip to a third country like Mexico or Panama every single time they want to visit the U.S. That's because the U.S. withdrew most of its non-essential diplomatic staff from Havana in September 2017 and stopped issuing visas of almost any type in Cuba. "This affects every Cuban but especially entrepreneurs who have to travel to get products that don't exist here," said Niuris Higueras, who brings salt, hand towels, candles and other products from the U.S. for her restaurant Atelier, one of Havana's most successful private eateries. Until now, Cubans who saved the money and mastered the complexities of successfully applying for a visa in a third country would receive a visa eliminating the need to apply again for another five years. That possibility will disappear on March 18 when the B2 visa will only allow a single entry for a three-month stay, Mara Tekach, the U.S. Embassy's charge d'affaires, said in a video posted on Facebook Friday. Tekach said the change was due to the need to achieve reciprocity between the visa rules of the U.S. and Cuba, which issues Americans single-entry tourist visas allowing a stay of up to three months. However, the Cuban visa application process is a formality, with airlines and travel agencies authorized to hand out visas to anyone who requests one and pays $50 as part of the purchase of an airline ticket or travel package. Cubans must pay $160, plus airfare and hotel costs in a third country, often to see their visa application swiftly rejected. "Invoking reciprocity here is beyond insulting," said Michael Bustamante, an assistant professor of Latin American History at Florida International University and an expert on contemporary Cuba who advocates for closer bilateral relations. "The announcement today will come as a real blow to many Cubans, only the latest of the Trump policy years." The seemingly obscure change in visa rules in fact is one of the harshest measures against Cuba taken by the Trump administration because of the effect it will have on the informal supply chain for the communist-run island's small but vibrant private sector. Virtually all of the supplies used by Cuban entrepreneurs from barbers to restaurant owners are either stolen from state enterprises or brought in suitcases from capitalist countries by business owners or "mules," couriers with visas who are paid to haul in the hundreds of varieties of products unavailable in Cuba's stagnant, centrally planned economy. The U.S. five-year visa not only allowed frequent trips to Miami, Latin American countries such as Mexico would allow Cubans with the U.S. visa to enter automatically. "This is going to limit me a lot," said Vanesa Pino, owner of the Sweet Details bakery in Havana. She uses her five-year visa to travel once a month to the United States to buy ingredients such as food coloring, decorating tools and sugar for icing. "It doesn't make sense to go to a third country to get a single-entry visa. You can make that effort if the investment then lets you make a lot of trips. "In my case, in addition to bringing supplies, I would go several times a year to pastry-making fairs, see new products and techniques, and now that's not going to be so easy." Her visa expires next year. Chinese tech giant Huawei is challenging a U.S. law that labels the company a security risk and would limit its access to the American market for telecom equipment. Huawei Technologies Ltd.'s lawsuit, announced Thursday, asks a federal court to throw out a portion of this year's U.S. military appropriations act that bars the government and its contractors from using Huawei equipment on the grounds it is unconstitutional. It comes as the biggest global maker of network equipment for phone and internet companies fights U.S. efforts to persuade allies to exclude the company from next-generation telecom systems. The complaint, filed in Plano, Texas, the headquarters of Huawei's U.S. operations, cites the framers of the U.S. Constitution, including Alexander Hamilton and James Madison, in arguing that the law in question violates the constitutional separation of powers, denies due process and amounts to a "Bill of Attainder" that singles out a specific entity for adverse treatment. It says the law causes the company "concrete and particularized injury, and imminent future injury" and subjects it to a "burden that is severe, permanent and inescapable" that amounts to the corporate "death penalty." Huawei, China's first global tech brand, is at the center of U.S.-Chinese tensions over technology competition and cyber-spying. The company has spent years trying to put to rest accusations it facilitates Chinese spying or is controlled by the ruling Communist Party. Increasingly, both sides appear to be resorting to courts to try to press their cases. "We are compelled to take this legal action as a proper and last resort," the company's rotating chairman, Guo Ping, said at a news conference. Guo said the ban would limit competition, slowing the rollout of fifth-generation communications and raising consumer prices. Huawei has pleaded not guilty to U.S. trade-theft charges after a federal court in Seattle unsealed a 10-count indictment in January against two of its units, Huawei Device Co. and Huawei Device USA. The charges include conspiracy to steal trade secrets, attempted theft of trade secrets, wire fraud and obstruction of justice. The company's chief financial officer, Meng Wanzhou, is fighting extradition to the U.S. after she was arrested in Vancouver, Canada on Dec. 1. U.S. prosecutors have filed charges accusing Meng, who is the daughter of Huawei's founder, of lying to banks about dealings with Iran. Huawei denies any wrongdoing. The company has about 40 percent of the global market for network gear but its U.S. sales evaporated after a congressional panel in 2012 cited the company and a Chinese competitor, ZTE Corp., as security risks and told phone carriers to avoid dealing with them. U.S. authorities "have hacked our servers and stolen our emails" but have presented no evidence to support their security claims, Guo said. He complained Washington was "sparing no effort to smear" the company. The U.S. campaign to persuade allies to shun Huawei threatens to block access to major markets as phone carriers prepare to invest billions of dollars in 5G systems. Huawei says the new law would shrink its potential U.S. market further by prohibiting the government from buying the Chinese vendor's technology and from buying goods or services from or giving grants or loans to companies or other third parties that do. The United States accounts for 20 to 25 percent of the global market for computer and telecom technology. Huawei says the U.S. law it is protesting improperly has Congress play the role of a court. The ban is "based on numerous false, unproven and untested propositions," said Song Liuping, the company's chief legal officer, at the news conference. "Huawei has an excellent security record and program. No contrary evidence has been offered." The Chinese government says Washington fabricates or exaggerates security concerns to block competition. Huawei, based in Shenzhen, near Hong Kong, is a leading developer of 5G along with rivals Nokia Corp. of Finland and Sweden's LM Ericsson. Industry analysts say excluding the Chinese vendor from markets for 5G equipment would reduce competition and might lead to higher prices. Founded in 1987 by a former military engineer, Huawei overtook Ericsson in 2017 as the biggest global supplier of network gear. It says it supplies 45 of the world's top 50 phone companies and has contracts with 30 carriers to test 5G wireless technology. European governments are balking at U.S. pressure to ban Huawei. The company has announced contracts with customers including the United Arab Emirates in the Middle East for network technology. China's government arrested two Canadians, a former diplomat and a businessman, on Dec. 10 in what was widely seen as an attempt to pressure Canada to release Meng, the company's CFO. On Monday, Beijing accused the two men of acting together to steal state secrets. That followed the Canadian government's announcement Friday that the extradition proceeding for Meng would be allowed to continue. Huawei executives say American security warnings have yet to affect sales outside the United States. The company's 2018 revenue forecast is $100 billion and its founder, Ren Zhengfei, said last month this year's target is $125 billion. Some European officials and others cite a Chinese security law requiring companies to cooperate with intelligence agencies. They say Huawei and other tech companies might be required to install "backdoors" in equipment to allow eavesdropping. Huawei denies altering its equipment to facilitate spying and has set up testing centers in Britain, Canada and continental Europe to allow governments to examine its technology. "Huawei has not and will never implant 'backdoors,'" said Guo, the chairman. The company also has launched a public relations campaign abroad. Its typically press-shy founder, Ren, gave a two-hour interview to foreign reporters in January in which he said Huawei would reject Chinese government demands to disclose confidential information about its customers. Since then, Ren also has talked at length with foreign TV broadcasters. What to Know Accused mail bomber Cesar Sayoc will enter a guilty plea in federal court on March 21 Sayoc was arrested last October after allegedly sending mail bombs to Hillary Clinton, George Soros and CNN He was facing life in prison on a 30-count indictment handed up last November Accused mail bomber Cesar Sayoc Jr, who allegedly terrorized the country last fall with explosives sent to opponents of President Trump, will enter a guilty plea at a March 21 hearing in Manhattan. It was not immediately clear which charges were included in the plea. He was indicted on 30 counts last November in Manhattan federal court, and faced the prospect of life in prison. Sayoc, 56, was arrested Oct. 26 in Florida. Authorities said he sent improvised explosive devices to numerous Democrats, critics of Trump and CNN. The scare heightened tensions before the crucial midterm elections, but he was arrested within days. None of the 16 devices he allegedly mailed around the country ever exploded. What to Know A man has been arrested in connection with the killing of a mob boss on Staten Island, sources tell NBC 4 New York Francesco 'Franky Boy' Cali, 53, was found with multiple gunshot wounds at his home in Todt Hill on Wednesday night U.S. Marshals arrested the man at a home in Brick, New Jersey, sources familiar with the investigation say UPDATE: Killing of NYC Crime Boss May Not Have Been Mob Hit At All, Sources Say A 24-year-old man was arrested in connection with the killing of Francesco Cali, a reputed boss of New York's Gambino crime family who was gunned down in a brazen hit this week, the NYPD said. Anthony Camello, of Staten Island, was taken into custody in New Jersey, police said. Investigators anticipate returning him to Staten Island where he will face murder charges for Cali, said Chief of Detectives Dermot Shea. "While we believe we have the shooter in custody in this incident, the investigation is far from over," Shea said. Police are investigating whether other people were involved and a possible motive, Shea said. He said police have an arrest warrant in hand from the Richmond County district attorney's office. The weapon hasn't been recovered, Shea said. Camello was picked up at a home in Brick, New Jersey, by the NYPD and U.S. Marshals, sources familiar with the investigation said. His pickup truck was found on Staten Island and cell phone records may have helped lead police to Brick. The sources said the murder wasn't related to the mob. One source described the man in custody as a conspiracy theory type of guy while a second source said he appears a bit off. One theory being looked into is whether the suspect wanted to date one of the mob boss's relatives and Cali told him to back off, the sources said. Cali, known as "Franky Boy," 53, was shot to death in front of his home on Hilltop Terrace not long after dinnertime Wednesday. The 911 caller had initially reported a man had been run over by a vehicle on purpose and that he was trapped; the caller then said he had also been shot multiple times. A suspect fled the scene in a blue pickup truck, the NYPD said. Investigators on Thursday began retrieving video from NYPD cameras positioned on the pair of roadways that lead in and out of Todt Hill, another source told NBC 4 New York. Surveillance video from the shooting scene is grainy, the source said. But it shows the suspects truck apparently deliberately hitting the vehicle perhaps to get Cali to come out of his home. The two shake hands, the license plate from the suspect's vehicle falls off, the suspect picks up the license, hands it to Cali, then pulls a gun and shoots as Cali puts the license in his own car, according to the source. Chief of Detectives Dermot Shea said Thursday that 12 shots were fired, with at least six striking Cali. Shea said Cali tried to use his car as a shield to protect himself during the shooting. Mr. Cali was struck several times by gunfire. In trying to elude additional gunfire, [he] fled to the rear area of his private vehicle, he said at a press conference. Federal prosecutors in Brooklyn had referred to Cali in court filings in recent years as the underboss of the Gambino organization, related through marriage to the Inzerillo clan in the Sicilian Mafia. Multiple press accounts since 2015 said Cali had ascended to the top spot in the gang, although he never faced a criminal charge saying so. His only mob-related criminal conviction came a decade ago, when Cali pleaded guilty in an extortion conspiracy involving a failed attempt to build a NASCAR track on Staten Island. He was sentenced to 16 months in federal prison and was released in 2009. The last Mafia boss to be shot to death in New York City was Gambino don Paul Castellano, assassinated outside a Manhattan steakhouse in 1985 at the direction of Cali's swaggering 1980s-era predecessor, John Gotti. With his expensive double-breasted suits and overcoats and silvery swept-back hair, Gotti became known as the Dapper Don, his smiling face all over the tabloids. As prosecutors tried and failed to bring him down, he came to be called the Teflon Don. Cali kept a much lower profile than Gotti. In 1992, Gotti was convicted in Castellano's murder and a multitude of other crimes. He was sentenced to life in prison and died of cancer in 2002. What to Know Countless marchers and spectators took to the streets for the annual St. Patricks Day Parade Saturday This years parade theme celebrated immigration NBC 4 offered exclusive live coverage of the parade Saturday. Catch up by watching the videos in this story. Bagpipes, dancers and marching bands joined in the largest American celebration of Irish heritage on Saturday, with tens of thousands of marchers following a painted green line up Fifth Avenue for the six-hour procession. NBC 4 New York offered exclusive, live coverage of New York Citys 258th St. Patricks Day Parade from 11 a.m. through 3 p.m. Saturday. Catch up on the full parade by watching the videos in this story. Countless marchers and spectators took to the streets Saturday for the annual St. Patricks Day Parade. Watch part 2 above. This years parade theme celebrated immigration, with the Grand Marshal being Brian O'Dwyer, a veteran activist and immigration lawyer who among other things helped found the Emerald Isle Immigration Center in Queens (EIIC). Stopping to talk with NBC 4's Pat Battle Saturday, he told viewers how his grandmother had come to New York from Galway, Ireland, when she was just 16 years old, driven by starvation. She was a maid at one of New York's largest mansions on 54th Street, he said. "One hundred years later, her grandson is marching by that very same mansion," he said. "I'm going to stop and say a prayer for her." Countless marchers and spectators took to the streets Saturday for the annual St. Patricks Day Parade. Watch part 3 above. O'Dwyer was joined by a dozen aides to the Grand Marshal, representing Irish American organizations and leaders from across the metropolitan area, including EIIC's director Siobhan Dennehy. Parade marchers were greeted by Cardinal Timothy Dolan as they passed by St. Patricks Cathedral. He also presided over the traditional pre-parade morning Mass. Countless marchers and spectators too to the streets Saturday for the annual St. Patricks Day Parade. Watch part 4 above. "We know that everybody is Irish on St. Patrick's Day, and as we salute our roots in this country, we know that today's immigrants can enrich this city and this country as the Irish did before them," Chairman of the St. Patrick's Day Parade Sean Lane said in a statement. "We could not do this without the support of thousands of volunteers and organizations that help us with fundraising and operations and we rely on the spiritual sustenance our relationship with the Archdiocese of New York brings us every year." Countless marchers and spectators took to the streets Saturday for the annual St. Patricks Day Parade. Watch part 5 above. As is traditional, the parade was led by the Fighting 69th, the New York National Guard regiment founded in the 1850s by Irish immigrants. The Fighting 69th has fought in every American war from the Civil War to Afghanistan. The 69th Regiment was followed by the Grand Marshal, and then the New York Police Department hundreds-strong contingent, joined by Mayor Bill de Blasio. Countless marchers and spectators took to the streets Saturday for the annual St. Patricks Day Parade. Watch part 6 above. Police Benevolent Association President Pat Lynch was given the honor of blowing the whistle this year announcing the start of the parade. A new, troublesome topic hovered over the parade this year: Britain's failed Brexit deal with the European Union that could squeeze Ireland's economy. Kevin Coughlan, a 27-year-old spectator wearing pants with four-leaf clovers, captured both the New York celebration and the political near-catastrophe overseas, where he still has plenty of family - in Ireland. Countless marchers and spectators took to the streets Saturday for the annual St. Patricks Day Parade. Watch part 7 above. "I've always been so proud to be an Irish-American, and that's what today is about; it's more than just one big party, it's about celebrating our freedom," said the Hoboken, New Jersey, resident. His mood darkened when he turned to Brexit, which "is definitely something we're all worried about, especially my family," he said. "I mean, we're all sort of just waiting for the shoe to drop to see what this means for the Irish economy." But, he added, "We can get through anything; we survived a potato famine." Countless marchers and spectators took to the streets Saturday for the annual St. Patricks Day Parade. Watch part 8 above. What to Know Students worldwide, including in the tri-state area, took to the streets Friday to demand action on climate change Protesters took place in Morristown, New Jersey and NYC, among other places; Arrests were made in Central Park West for blocking traffic The wave of protests was sparked online and started overseas Students worldwide, including in the tri-state area, took to the streets Friday to demand action on climate change. In New Jersey, nearly 200 students gathered in front of Morristown City Hall. Meanwhile at Montclair High School hundreds more walked out of class. Students from a charter school in Morris Township that emphasizes sustainability didn't have to skip school since the school brought them to the strike. Rather than skipping school and being penalized, we all came together to support it, Stevie Robinson, from Unity Charter School, said. After this we are going to take it back to school and make sure that we can make a change in the world, Jada Nugent, also of Unity Charter School, said. Meanwhile, in New York City, protesters were also vocal, as a protest in Manhattan was marred by arrests near Central Park. At least half a dozen arrests were made in Central Park West and 81st Street after a group of protesters blocked traffic. Eventually, the group of protestors stopped at the steps of the American Museum of Natural History on the Upper West Side. Im so glad the young people are bringing attention to it and using their voices loud and proud, Jane Feldman said. Protesters also converged around Columbus Circle. Students at Bronx Science also walked out Friday morning holding signs and urging the government to do more to reduce carbon emissions. I believe that whatever it takes to push for change and action needs to be taken and if that means skipping school every Friday then be it, Bronx Science student Azalea Danes said. Danes joined others outside New York City Hall during a demonstration similar to those in more than 100 countries. An entire fifth grade class from an arts and letters school also took part along with their teachers. I feel people are really selfish when they say climate change isnt a thing because they are going to be dead when it affects us, fifth grader Trixie Midel said. The protest also brought out a mom and her 5-year-old kindergartner. Im a climate activist, my husband in an activist, this is his future, parent Shonah Trescott said. Some students even took their message to the United Nations, lying outside on the ground. The wave of protests was sparked online. They started overseas and spread throughout social media. The organizer, teenager Greta Thunberg of Sweden, was nominated this week for the Nobel Peace Prize. President Donald Trump played down any threat posed by racist white nationalism on Friday after the gunman accused of the New Zealand mosque massacre called the president "a symbol of renewed white identity." Trump, whose own previous responses to the movement have drawn scrutiny, expressed sympathy for the victims who died at "places of worship turned into scenes of evil killing." But he declined to join expressions of mounting concern about white nationalism, saying "I don't, really" when asked whether he thought it was a rising threat around the world. "I think it's a small group of people that have very, very serious problems, I guess," Trump said. "If you look at what happened in New Zealand, perhaps that's the case. I don't know enough about it yet. But it's certainly a terrible thing." Trump was asked about white nationalism and the shooting deaths of 49 people at mosques in Christchurch after he formally vetoed Congress' resolution to block his declaration of a national emergency at the Mexico border. His veto, aimed at freeing money to build more miles of a border wall against illegal immigration, is expected to survive any congressional effort to overturn it. Questioned about the accused gunman's reference to him, Trump professed ignorance. "I didn't see it. I didn't see it," he said. "But I think it's a horrible event ... a horrible, disgraceful thing and a horrible act." The man accused of the shootings, whose name was not immediately released, left behind a lengthy document that outlined his motivations. He proudly stated that he was a 28-year-old Australian white nationalist who hates immigrants and was set off by attacks in Europe that were perpetrated by Muslims. In a single reference, he mentioned the U.S. president. "Were/are you a supporter of Donald Trump?" was one of the questions he posed to himself. His answer: "As a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose? Sure. As a policy maker and leader? Dear god no." The White House immediately denounced the connection. But the mention from the suspect, who embraced Nazi imagery and voiced support for fascism, nonetheless cast an uncomfortable light on the way that the president has been embraced by some on the far right. Trump, who as a candidate proposed a ban on all Muslims entering the United States, has drawn criticism as being slow to condemn white supremacy and related violence. After a 2017 clash between white nationalists and anti-racist protesters in Charlottesville, Virginia, that left one demonstrator dead, Trump said there were "very fine people on both sides" of the confrontation. He also did not immediately reject the support of David Duke, a former KKK Grand Wizard, during his presidential campaign. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., tied Trump's inflammatory language to the violence half a world away. "Words have consequences like saying we have an invasion on our border and talking about people as though they were different in some fatal way," Blumenthal said on CNN. "I think that the public discourse from the president on down is a factor in some of these actions." Former Texas Rep. Beto O'Rourke, who declared his Democratic candidacy for president this week, said, "We must call out this hatred, this Islamophobia, this intolerance, and the violence that predictably follows from the rhetoric that we use." The White House, in comments before those remarks, rejected any link to Trump. "It's outrageous to even make that connection between this deranged individual that committed this evil crime to the president who has repeatedly condemned bigotry, racism and made it very clear that this is a terrorist attack," Mercedes Schlapp, the White House's director of strategic communication, told reporters. "We are there to support and stand with the people of New Zealand." Trump himself telephoned New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, offering condolences, prayers and any help the U.S. might be able to provide. She told reporters she answered, "My message was: to offer sympathy and love to all Muslim communities." Trump's hardline immigration rhetoric and calls to return America to its traditional past have been embraced by many on the conservative fringes, including some who troll online with racist imagery, as well as white supremacists who have looked to engage in violence. In Florida, Cesar Sayoc, who had decorated his van with Trump propaganda, was accused of mailing explosives last fall to Democratic Party officials and media members, many of whom had been criticized by the president. The president said Sayoc had been "insane" long before he became a Trump fan. Last month, a former Coast Guard official was accused of stockpiling weapons in a plot to kill media members and liberal politicians as part of a plan to transform the U.S. into a white ethno-state. It took more than a week for Trump to respond to the plot, which he deemed "a shame." Many experts who track violent extremists have identified white nationalism as a growing threat in the U.S. and abroad. In January, for example, the New York-based Anti-Defamation League said that domestic extremists killed at least 50 people in the U.S. in 2018, up from 37 in 2017, and said, "White supremacists were responsible for the great majority of the killings, which is typically the case." Some critics have accused U.S. authorities of not dedicating adequate resources to stem a threat of domestic terrorism. However, The Washington Post reported last week that internal FBI data showed more domestic terror suspects were arrested last year than those allegedly inspired by international terror groups. U.S. business groups said Friday they are encouraged by China's approval of a new law that loosens restrictions on foreign investment and said it could help smooth the way to a substantive trade agreement between the two countries. China's ceremonial legislature passed a measure Thursday seeking to prevent Chinese officials from forcing U.S. and other foreign companies to turn over proprietary technology, a key sticking point in the trade fight between the two countries. The U.S. has imposed tariffs on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods in an effort to force changes to a range of China's economic policies. China has retaliated by slapping duties on most U.S. imports. "It's one of those confidence building measures," Erin Ennis, senior vice president of the U.S.-China Business Council, said of the move by Chinese legislators. It suggests "the two sides are talking the same language." U.S. companies have long complained that Chinese officials informally push them to turn over trade secrets in order to access China's market. In some cases U.S. businesses are required to form a joint venture with a Chinese partner, and share technology with them. In other cases, U.S. companies are forced to provide trade secrets to win regulatory approval from local officials, who then turn over those secrets to Chinese firms. The Trump administration also wants China to reign in subsidies for state-owned firms and for companies that are focused on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and self-driving cars. The new law would bar Chinese officials from leaking technology to Chinese firms, and would also make it easier for more U.S. companies to do business in China without a partner. Still, it's not clear how close the two sides are to an agreement. Earlier this week, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer told a Senate committee that "there still are major, major issues that have to be resolved." Ennis said China needs to publish regulations that would implement the new law, a step they have delayed taking in the past. Lighthizer has emphasized that the agreement must include enforcement provisions that would allow the U.S. to impose tariffs or other sanctions if China doesn't follow through on its promises. That remains a key sticking point between the two sides, business lobbyists have said. Lighthizer sketched out how the United States wants to enforce the deal in his testimony Tuesday. U.S. companies that are forced to turn over technology, for example, could bring that concern to U.S. officials, who would raise them in monthly meetings with their Chinese counterparts. Lighthizer and his Chinese counterpart would meet every six months and seek to resolve the toughest cases. If they were unable to do so, Lighthizer said, the U.S. could "unilaterally act to enforce change," which would likely mean tariffs. The Trump administration wants China to agree to not retaliate, but that is a major sticking point. Still, both presidents want a deal, business lobbyists say. "We are cautiously optimistic that the two sides are going to get there," said Jeremie Waterman, president of the U.S. Chamber China Center. "They're clearly whittling the number of outstanding issues down." Some business groups think an agreement, if it is reached, won't happen until the end of April. President Donald Trump said on Thursday at the White House, "We'll have news on China probably one way or the other over the next three or four weeks." As she waited to meet former Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper at a recent house party in Dubuque, attorney Connie O'Connor was anxious about the liberal direction of the Democratic presidential primary. "I know a lot of people who don't want to vote for Donald Trump but don't necessarily want to vote for the presidential version of Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez," she said, referring to the recently elected progressive congresswoman from New York. "I think we forget those people are out there." But about 80 miles away, union organizer Eli Shepherd pointed to the thousands of people flocking to a Bernie Sanders rally at the University of Iowa as proof that the self-described democratic socialist is best positioned to beat the Republican now in the White House. "People get brought in (to the campaign) because it's something they deeply care about," Shepherd said. "When there's a campaign that's actually focused on that, that's what's exciting, that's what's transformative, that's how you win." Democrats have a long fight ahead over this question of who's right. The early days of the Democratic contest are dominated by a debate over whether candidates such as Sanders are moving the party too far left or whether the embrace of liberal priorities will fire up the base and help defeat Trump. That debate is sure to deepen if former Vice President Joe Biden enters the race and tries to establish himself as a prominent centrist counterweight to Sanders, a Vermont senator. In the opening days of his 2020 campaign, former Texas Rep. Beto O'Rourke has also sought to appeal to both parties. "There's a tension, and that's what presidential campaigns are about," said Simon Rosenberg of the New Democratic Network. So far, the candidates are racing to prove their progressive bona fides on issues such as "Medicare for All" and the Green New Deal. Yet surveys suggest Democratic voters are less eager to tack left. A Monmouth Poll last month found 56 percent of registered Democrats said their top priority was a candidate who could beat Trump even if they disagreed with that person on most issues. A Pew Research Center poll in January found that 53 percent of Democrats wanted the party to become more moderate, while 40 percent wanted it to become more liberal. Though a few insurgents won Democratic congressional primaries last year, most notably Ocasio-Cortez, most of those contests were captured by candidates backed by the party establishment. Recent campaign swings through Iowa, the nation's leadoff caucus state, by Sanders and by Hickenlooper, a self-described "extreme moderate," illustrated the contradiction in the Democratic field. For the Sanders appearance in Iowa City, the soundtrack at the University of Iowa student union featured Tracy Chapman's "Talking About A Revolution" and Muse's "Uprising." Well over 1,000 people wore Sanders T-shirts, hats and buttons, some with 2016-era gear and others sporting the newer 2020 models on sale outside the hall. Cheri Pichone, a disability representative, brought a Sanders action figure to the rally. Pichone voted for Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein in 2016 because she said she believed the Democrats "cheated" to deny Sanders the nomination and she's worried it could happen again. "I don't honestly see how anybody could beat him fairly," Pichone said. The crowd broke into a deafening roar as Sanders walked to the podium. "This," he said, "is where the political revolution began." Sanders was referring to the 2016 caucuses, when he came within a few votes of defeating front-runner Hillary Clinton in Iowa. Now Sanders is an early leader, raising at least $10 million, almost all in small-dollar donations, since launching his campaign Feb. 19. The initial sound of Hickenlooper's first Iowa swing as a presidential candidate was a beer glass shattering. Someone inside the packed meeting room at Confluence Brewery in Des Moines dropped a mug just as Hickenlooper walked in. Hickenlooper began scooping up shards of glass. "There's nobody in this room who's cleaned up more broken beer glasses than me," Hickenlooper said. Hickenlooper started a brewpub in a then-desolate stretch of downtown Denver after being laid off from his job as a geologist in the 1980s. The business took off, made Hickenlooper wealthy and helped propel him into the Denver mayor's office. In Des Moines, he stood in front of a wall of beer cans strategically arranged to create the number "2020," and talked about persuading Republican mayors of suburbs to join Denver in pushing a tax increase to pay for light rail. He recounted, after being elected governor in 2010, how he was able to get the energy industry and environmentalists to agree on limits on methane gas emissions. He bemoaned "a national crisis of division." "People in Washington, they spend their lives talking about stuff and debating and pointing fingers and blaming the other side," Hickenlooper said, in an apparent dig at the various senators running. "It's about time to bring people together and get stuff done." In contrast to Sanders, Hickenlooper starts with no base outside of Colorado and little name recognition. He acknowledged he's "a dark horse." One of the most common questions Hickenlooper was asked in Iowa was whether he was related to an Iowa governor and senator with the same last name who served from the 1930s to the 1960s. (The Iowa politician was indeed a distant relative.) The day after his Des Moines appearance, Hickenlooper stopped at five separate locations across the state. Joel Greenwald, 64, a retired banker, shook Hickenlooper's hand at an event in Cedar Falls. "They're pushing 'free, free, free,'" Greenwald said about supporters of Sanders and other liberals. "You're going to turn off a lot of Republicans and independents if you say 'free free free.'" But Greenwald isn't a Hickenlooper supporter. He's waiting for Biden, who is teasing Democrats with the possibility of a third White House run. Hickenlooper received enthusiastic cheers when he spoke and wound up his trip in another crowded brewpub in Cedar Rapids. After Hickenlooper gave his speech, the crowd gathered around him. Karla Goettel, 69, made a beeline for the candidate and complained about his refusal on the television show "Morning Joe" to call himself a capitalist. "There are a bunch of Democrats who are pissed off at capitalism," Hickenlooper told her. Goettel said Hickenlooper knew he messed up the question. "They're all trying to be careful not to be too far right or too far left," she said. "I just want to find someone electable." President Donald Trump's first congressional veto was more than a milestone: It signals a new era of ever more fraught relations between the two ends of Pennsylvania Avenue. Trump's legislative agenda was stymied even before his party lost unified control of Washington at the start of the year and he has grown increasingly frustrated by his dealings with Congress, believing little of substance will get done by the end of his first term and feeling just as pessimistic about the second, according to White House aides, campaign staffers and outside allies. Republicans in Congress, for their part, are demonstrating new willingness to part ways with the president. On the Senate vote Thursday rejecting the president's national emergency declaration to get border wall funding, 12 senators defected and joined Democrats in voting against Trump. The GOP-led Senate's 59-41 vote against Trump's declaration was just the latest blow as tensions flare on multiple fronts. Trump tweeted one word after the vote: "VETO!" And he eagerly flexed that muscle on Friday for the first time, hoping to demonstrate resolve on fulfilling his signature 2016 campaign pledge. Leading up to Thursday's dramatic vote of rebuke, Republican senators had repeatedly agitated for compromise deals that would give them political cover to support Trump despite their concerns that he was improperly circumventing Congress. But the president was never convinced that any of the proposals ensured the resolution would be defeated, said a White House official who demanded anonymity to discuss internal thinking. A last-ditch trip to the White House by a group of senators Wednesday night only irritated Trump, who felt they were offering little in the way of new solutions. As the vote neared, Trump repeatedly made clear that it was about party fealty and border security and suggested that voting against him could be perilous. "It's going to be a great election issue," he predicted. Looking past the veto, Trump's plans for future collaboration with Congress appear limited. With the exception of pushing for approval of Trump's trade deal with Mexico and Canada, the president and his allies see little benefit for Trump in investing more political capital on Capitol Hill. Trump ran against Washington in 2016, and they fully expect him to do so again. Instead, the president who once declared that "I alone can fix it" before getting hamstrung by the morass in Washington is exploring opportunities to pursue executive action to work around lawmakers as he did with his emergency declaration on the border wall. He is directing aides to find other areas where he can act or at least be perceived as acting without Congress, including infrastructure and reducing drug prices. Trump made his intentions clear recently as he assessed that Democrats would rather investigate him than cooperate on policy, declaring: "Basically, they've started the campaign. So the campaign begins." His dealings with Congress were inconsistent even when Republicans controlled both chambers, and he has made few overtures to Democrats since they won control of the House. Trump initially predicted he could work across the aisle, but that sentiment cooled after the bitter government shutdown fight and in the face of mounting investigations. His frustrations underscore the difficulty the Washington neophyte and former business executive has had with the laborious process of lawmaking, and the challenges yet to come. The White House argues there are still opportunities for collaboration, listing the ratification of Trump's renegotiated North American free trade agreement, known as the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, as his top legislative priority for the coming two years. But passage is anything but assured. Trump's ire has been directed at both parties for some time, aides said. He was upset with the Republicans' performance during the recent congressional hearing featuring his former fixer Michael Cohen, telling allies that he was not impressed with their questioning. Trump's budget proposal this past week was viewed as a shot at Democrats, with its proposals to increase funding for the border wall and cut to social safety net programs. The plan, which had little in the way of new or bipartisan ideas, was declared dead on arrival by Democratic House leaders. Further stoking tensions, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi invited NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg to address an upcoming joint meeting of Congress, in what was widely seen as a rebuke of Trump's criticism of the trans-Atlantic alliance. The invitation was backed by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and followed votes earlier this year in which Republicans voiced opposition to Trump's plans to draw down U.S. troops in Syria and Afghanistan. Presidential complaints about Congress and efforts to find a work-around are nothing new. Former President Barack Obama in 2014 deployed what became known as his "pen and phone" strategy. "I've got a pen to take executive actions where Congress won't, and I've got a telephone to rally folks around the country on this mission," he said. Obama's strategy yielded years of executive orders and regulatory action but many proved ephemeral when Trump took office and started deconstructing them. President Donald Trump said Tuesday that he will hold a two-day summit with North Korea leader Kim Jong Un Feb. 27-28 in Vietnam to continue his efforts to persuade Kim to give up his nuclear weapons. Trump has said his outreach to Kim and their first meeting last June in Singapore opened a path to peace, but there is not yet a concrete plan for how denuclearization could be implemented. Denuclearizing North Korea is something that has eluded the U.S. for more than two decades, since it was first learned that North Korea was close to acquiring the means for nuclear weapons. "As part of a bold new diplomacy, we continue our historic push for peace on the Korean Peninsula," Trump said in his State of the Union address. Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats told Congress last week that U.S. intelligence officials do not believe Kim will eliminate his nuclear weapons or the capacity to build more because he believes they are key to the survival of the regime. Satellite video taken since the June summit has indicated North Korea is continuing to produce nuclear materials at its weapons factories. Last year, North Korea released American detainees, suspended nuclear and long-range missile tests and dismantled a nuclear test site and parts of a rocket launch facility without the presence of outside experts. It has repeatedly demanded that the United States reciprocate with measures such as sanctions relief, but Washington has called for North Korea to take steps such as providing a detailed account of its nuclear and missile facilities that would be inspected and dismantled under a potential deal. At the second Trump-Kim summit, some experts say North Korea is likely to seek to trade the destruction of its main Yongbyon nuclear complex for a U.S. promise to formally declare the end of the 1950-53 Korean War, open a liaison office in Pyongyang and allow the North to resume some lucrative economic projects with South Korea. "Our hostages have come home, nuclear testing has stopped, and there has not been a missile launch in 15 months," Trump said. "If I had not been elected President of the United States, we would right now, in my opinion, be in a major war with North Korea. "Much work remains to be done, but my relationship with Kim Jong Un is a good one," he said in announcing their second meeting. Stephen Biegun, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's special representative for North Korea, is hopeful, but acknowledges that many issues make it especially complicated for the two countries to "embark on a diplomatic initiative of this magnitude." Biegun was in Pyongyang on Tuesday. The Vietnamese city where the two leaders will meet was not announced. The country, however, is keen to project itself on the world stage. It is a single-party communist state that boasts of tight political control and a tough security apparatus similar to Singapore's. Where Singapore leans West, generally appreciative of U.S. influence in Asia, Vietnam leans East. Even with its edgy relationship with China, it has a long fraternal history with Asia's communist states. This is friendly ground for Kim and closer than Singapore. On a related issue, the State Department said this week that the U.S. and South Korea have reached a tentative agreement on sharing the costs of keeping 28,500 American troops in South Korea, but no final deal has been signed to replace the existing agreement, which expired at the end of 2018. South Korea pays more than $800 million a year, but Trump has demanded that Seoul pay 50 percent more. News that a tentative agreement has been reached offers relief to those who worried Trump would use the lack of a deal as a reason to pull U.S. troops out of South Korea as part of negotiations with Kim. North Korea has claimed that the presence of American troops in the South is proof that the U.S. has hostile intentions in the region. Trump said after his first meeting with Kim in June that while he'd like to bring troops home, "that's not part of the equation right now." Associated Press writer Grant Peck in Bangkok contributed to this report. U.S. regulators charged Volkswagen and former CEO Martin Winterkorn with defrauding investors during its massive diesel emissions scandal. The charges from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission come two years after the German automaker settled with the U.S. over criminal and civil charges, as the company tries to distance itself from one if its darkest eras. The SEC said that between April 2014 and May 2015, Volkswagen issued more than $13 billion in bonds and asset-backed securities in U.S. markets when senior executives knew that more than 500,000 vehicles in the country grossly exceeded legal vehicle emissions limits. Volkswagen made false and misleading statements to investors and underwriters about vehicle quality, environmental compliance, and the company's financial standing, which gave Volkswagen a financial benefit when it issued securities at more attractive rates for the company, according to the SEC. "Volkswagen hid its decade-long emissions scheme while it was selling billions of dollars of its bonds to investors at inflated prices," said Stephanie Avakian, co-director of the SEC's enforcement division. In September 2015 Volkswagen installed software on more than 475,000 cars that enabled them to cheat on emissions tests, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The software reduced nitrogen oxide emissions when the cars were placed on a test machine but allowed higher emissions and improved engine performance during normal driving. In 2016 the Justice Department sued Volkswagen over the emissions-cheating software and the Federal Trade Commission sued the company, saying it made false claims in commercials promoting its "Clean Diesel" vehicles as environmentally friendly. Winterkorn resigned saying he took responsibility for the fraud, but insisted he personally did nothing wrong. Volkswagen said Friday that the SEC is simply repeating unproven claims about Winterkorn. "Regrettably, more than two years after Volkswagen entered into landmark, multibillion-dollar settlements in the United States with the Department of Justice, almost every state and nearly 600,000 consumers, the SEC is now piling on to try to extract more from the company," the company said in a prepared release. The company has paid some $20 billion in fines and civil settlements. It has also pleaded guilty to criminal charges in the United States and several managers, including Winterkorn, were charged there. The surprise charges from the SEC arrive as the German company attempts to distance itself from the scandal. On Tuesday the automaker said that it planned to ramp up production of electric vehicles over the next ten years, to 22 million, and reduce its carbon footprint over vehicle life cycles by 30 percent. Volkswagen's pivot to electric vehicles comes as it seeks to comply with new limits on carbon dioxide emissions in Europe, and a push by China for more low-emission vehicles. The SEC's complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, charges Volkswagen AG, its subsidiaries Volkswagen Group of America Finance, LLC and VW Credit, Inc., and Winterkorn with violating the antifraud provisions of the federal securities laws. The SEC seeks permanent injunctions, disgorgement of ill-gotten gains with prejudgment interest and civil penalties. It also wants to bar Winterkorn from holding any corporate officer or director positions. Storms continued to pile on snowpack and fill California's water reservoirs over the past week, pulling even more of the state out of drought. Last week, a small sliver of extreme Northern California was the only part of the state in moderate drought. That area and a swath of California near its border with Mexico were listed as abnormally dry, a less severe condition than drought, in this week's U.S. Drought Monitor report. That means California is free of drought for the first time since Dec. 20, 2011, according to the National Drought Mitigation Center. US Drought Monitor One year ago, nearly 50 percent of California was in moderate to extreme drought. Part of Ventura County and a northwest Los Angeles County were in the extreme drought category -- the second-most severe category in the drought monitor's ranking system -- at this time last year. Just three months ago, 75 percent of the state was in moderate to extreme drought. Even the Salton Sea area, a southeastern California region that has consistently been among the driest parts of the state, returned to what the Monitor described as normal conditions. "The rest of the region in Southern California is still abnormally dry due to very dry previous years," the weekly report noted. "Reservoirs in San Diego County are only at 65 percent capacity." [LA GALLERY UPDATED 4/2019] California Snowpack Through the Years Big Bear Lake in the mountains east of Los Angeles was down 18 feet in early March, but it's expected to continue to rise, according to the report. Also in Southern California, Lake Piru in Ventura County is at 74 precent capacity, Cachuma Reservoir in Santa Barbara County is at 73 percent capacity, and Lake Casitas near Ventura is up to 43 percent capacity. One of the most encouraging signs is the giant pillow of snow covering the Sierra Nevada Mountains. A manual survey of snowpack at Phillips Station late last month indicated a snow depth of 113 inches and a snow water equivalent of 43.5 inches. [NATL-la gallery] The Otherworldly Landscape of the Salton Sea in Photos That's double what was recorded a month before at the same location. Statewide, the Sierra snowpack was at 153 percent of average for the late February survey. The snowpack is a critical part of California's water supply because that snow melts in spring and runs off into the state's water system. [NATL-LA] How Water Gets From the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the Rest of California The drought-busting winter is in keeping with California's history of dry spells followed by wet winters. Researchers for Californias Fourth Climate Change Assessment last year noted that the state has a highly variable climate with wet or dry periods that can span years and that are heavily affected by extreme precipitation events. As the climate continues to warm, atmospheric rivers, responsible for many of the heaviest extremes, will carry more moisture and extreme precipitation may increase, the assessment says. Atmospheric rivers, bands of moisture in the sky over the Pacific that fuel colossal rain-making storms, have contributed to some of California's wettest winters. Storms draw moisture from the rivers as they move toward California, sometimes unleashing days of steady rain on the West Coast. But warming air can also exacerbate periods of drought. One group of researchers last year dubbed the change from extreme dry to wet conditions in the state as precipitation whiplash events, Quartz reported. In 2014, then-Gov. Jerry Brown declared a drought emergency for California, ordering prohibitions on wasteful water use like hosing off driveways and sidewalks, and watering lawns within days of a rainstorm, after a several dry years. That emergency order was lifted for most of the state in 2017 after a historically wet winter. With chants supporting a Green New Deal and denouncing fossil fuels, San Diego County students skipped class Friday and join hundreds of thousands across the globe to demand action on climate change. The international "Youth Climate Strike" rallies were planned in more than 100 countries, including the U.S., Hong Kong, New Delhi, Finland and New Zealand. At least two were held in San Diego County. In the South Bay, dozens of students gathered at Hilltop High School, signs in hand, Friday morning and began the two-mile trek to Chula Vista City Hall. Chants of "Hey, hey, ho, ho. Fossil fuels have got to go," and "Climate change is very real, so we demand a green new deal," echoed through a quiet neighborhood as the group began their march. The group, comprised of some students as young as 13-years-old, then turned onto Chula Vista's busy H Street. A police patrol vehicle inched beside the group as the teenagers marched. Some of the students told NBC 7 they felt inclined to skip school because the climate is something that would specifically impact their future. Millie Fricker, a 13-year-old from Point Loma said the march meant missing a few tests but those could be made up. The climate's future could not. "On the way over here there was some people that were like 'No, you should be in school. Climate change is not important.' So I feel like we should convince them that it is real and that it is important," she told NBC 7. Support for the marches spread through social media. Sugyan Ciampi-Straneo, 13, said that is what led him to Friday's march. "Its important because then when we're older it'll be much harder to reverse it and now we still have time to change," he said. A similar demonstration was held by students at High Tech High School. The group planned to hold a rally at their Liberty Station campus and again outside San Diego City Hall. The goal for both marches was to urge local government officials to throw their support behind the Green New Deal, a Democrat-led plan to create jobs in renewable energy in order to combat climate change. The Green New Deal was put forth by freshman Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and veteran Sen. Ed Markey of Massachusetts. The nonbinding resolution calls for a "10-year national mobilization" on the scale of the original New Deal to shift the economy away from fossil fuels such as oil and coal and replace them with renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. It sets a goal to meet "100 percent of the power demand in the United States through clean, renewable and zero-emission energy sources," including nuclear power. Republicans who support the existence of climate change have said it is important to address the subject but seek an alternative solution to the proposed Green New Deal. Ahead of Friday's march, students gathered in Chula Vista to hand-paint signs that read, "Raise your voice, not the sea level," and "I'm sure the dinosaurs thought they had time, too." "We dont have much time to address this crisis and we need bold action now. So this is kind of our way to have our voice be heard because otherwise, we dont think that we would really be heard," student Kate Anchondo said. To help make sure you stay informed on the most shared and talked about stories in San Diego County, each Saturday we'll revisit five stories from the previous week and capsulize them in this digest with the most recent updates. 1. Restaurant Owners, Groups Sue to Stop San Diego's Styrofoam Ban Three San Diego restaurant owners, the California Restaurant Association, and Dart Cardboard Corporation of California have filed a lawsuit against the city of San Diego seeking to block the citys ban on Styrofoam containers. NBC 7's Artie Ojeda talked with One of the restaurant owners behind the suit, Javier Rodriguez. He owns Antojitos Colombianos on Imperial Avenue in Logan Heights and says the chemicals in the replacement packaging are similar to those in styrofoam. Restaurant owners and groups say the city skipped a crucial step in its process to ban styrofoam containers. NBC 7's Artie Ojeda has more. 2. Ex-School District Employee Accused of Stealing 800 Money Orders A Chula Vista woman faced a judge this week, accused of three counts of embezzlement involving more than $50,000 between June 2016 and November 2017. She allegedly took 800 money orders, altered them and deposited them into her own personal bank account, prosecutors said. The former district employee was depositing money orders from prospective employees into her own bank account. 3. California Governor Announces Moratorium on Death Penalty California's Democratic governor announced Wednesday he was temporarily shutting down the nation's most populous death row. This leaves a number of questions including what happens to inmates who were sentenced to death? Get a look at some of the most common questions and answers regarding the announcement here. Also, NBC 7's Omari Fleming spoke with the mothers of the victims in one of the most tragic killings in San Diego history to get their reaction to the news. NBC 7s Omari Fleming speaks with Milena Sellers Phillips and Maria Keever about the governors moratorium on the death penalty. 4. DoorDasher Gets Delivered a Scam A caller asked a local DoorDash driver for his PIN number and login information earlier this month. Since it was from a DoorDash number he figured he had nothing to worry about. However, as NBC 7 Responds uncovered, the delivery driver was cheated out of a $1,700 check. NBC 7's Consumer Bob explains the scam and how DoorDash drivers aren't the only people being victimized. 5. North Park Standout, Urban Solace Closes Sad news for fans of the restaurant on 30th Street in the heart of North Park that has been around since 2007. Restaurateur Matt Gordon posted the heartbreaking news on social media, writing, in part: We have come to the very difficult decision that Solace Restaurants have run their course here in San Diego. Both the North Park location and its spinoff in Encinitas closed Wednesday. Unbowed by a congressional rebuke, President Donald Trump issued the first veto of his presidency on Friday in a demonstration that he is not through fighting for his signature campaign promise, which stands largely unfulfilled 18 months before voters decide whether to grant him another term. Trump rejected an effort by Congress to block the emergency declaration he'd used to circumvent lawmakers as he tried to shake loose funds for his long-promised wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. The monthslong confrontation now moves to the courts, but not before marking a new era of divided government in Washington and Republicans' increasing independence from the White House. "Congress has the freedom to pass this resolution," Trump said, "and I have the duty to veto it." A dozen defecting Republicans joined Senate Democrats in approving the joint resolution on Thursday as both parties strained to exert their power in new ways. It is unlikely that Congress will have the two-thirds majority required to override Trump's veto, though House Democrats will try nonetheless on March 26. Despite the reproach, Trump seized the opportunity to publicly rebuff Congress and show his commitment to the border wall. In embracing the opportunity to deploy the constitutional power of the veto for the first time, he treated the occasion with all the traditional pomp of a bill-signing. Trump was surrounded in the Oval Office by supporters, including law enforcement officials and the parents of children killed by people in the country illegally, who offered profuse thanks and frequent applause. Trump dramatically signed his veto message and then held the document up for the cameras to capture. Trump wants to use the emergency order to divert billions of federal dollars earmarked for defense spending toward the southern border wall. It still faces several legal challenges from Democratic state attorneys general and environmental groups who argue the emergency declaration was unconstitutional. Those cases could prevent Trump from diverting extra money to barrier construction for months or longer. American Civil Liberties Union, which filed one of the challenges, said the veto is meaningless, like the declaration in the first place. "Congress has rejected the president's declaration, and now the courts will be the ultimate arbiter of its legality. We look forward to seeing him in court and to the shellacking that he will receive at the hands of an independent judiciary," said Executive Director Anthony Romero. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called Trump's veto a "lawless power grab" and railed that, even after both chambers tried to stop him, Trump "has chosen to continue to defy the Constitution, the Congress and the will of the American people." Trump, however, insisted the situation on the southern border is "a tremendous national emergency," adding, "our immigration system is stretched beyond the breaking point." Many lawmakers said Thursday's vote was not necessarily a rejection of the president or the wall, but protections against future presidents namely a Democrat who might want to declare an emergency on climate change, gun control or any number of other issues. It was the first direct challenge to the 1976 National Emergencies Act, just as a Wednesday vote on Yemen was the first time Congress invoked the decades-old War Powers Act to try to rein in a president. That resolution seeking to end U.S. backing for the Saudi Arabian-led coalition fighting in Yemen was approved in the aftermath of the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul and is expected to be the subject of Trump's second veto. Despite the embarrassing defections of the 12 GOP senators, Trump's grip on the party remains strong and the White House made it clear that Republicans resisting Trump could face political consequences. Ahead of the voting, Trump framed the issue as with-him-or-against-him on border security, a powerful argument with many. But Friday, Trump said he had sympathy for the Republicans who voted against him and emphasized that he never truly twisted the arms of lawmakers, because he knew there were not enough votes to override the veto. "Look, they were doing what they have to do," Trump said, insisting he "put no pressure" on lawmakers to vote against the resolution because he realized that the measure was likely to pass. Still, a White House official said Trump won't forget when senators who opposed him want him to attend fundraisers or provide other help. The official was not authorized to speak publicly on internal deliberations so spoke on condition of anonymity. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump painted his usual portrait of a lawless and violent border. He cited "thousands and thousands" of gang arrests and claimed many of the asylum seekers released into the U.S. were "stone-cold killers," ignoring data that shows immigrants are less likely to commit crime. He noted, correctly, a spike in the number of people coming to the border to claim asylum. Trump initiated the showdown months ago when he all but dared Congress not to give him the $5.7 billion he was demanding to build the U.S.-Mexico wall, by threatening a federal government shutdown. Congress declined and the result was the longest shutdown in U.S. history. Against the advice of GOP leaders, Trump invoked the national emergency declaration last month, allowing him to try to tap about $3.6 billion for the wall by shuffling money from military projects, and that drew outrage from many lawmakers. Trump had campaigned for president promising Mexico would pay for the wall. AP writers Alan Fram, Lisa Mascaro, Catherine Lucey and Colleen Long contributed. Democratic presidential contender Beto O'Rourke on Friday acknowledged making mistakes as a teen and as a candidate, responding to criticism of his campaign rhetoric toward his wife as well as writings he produced online when he was young. During a taping of the "Political Party Live" podcast in Cedar Rapids, he addressed criticism of his campaign-trail joke that his wife, Amy, has raised their three kids "sometimes with my help." O'Rourke made the comment at multiple campaign stops during his first swing through Iowa, including earlier Friday, eliciting laughs each time, but he also drew criticism as being insensitive to the challenges faced by single parents raising children. O'Rourke said the criticism of his "ham-handed" attempt to highlight his wife's work in their marriage was "right on." "Not only will I not say that again, but I will be much more thoughtful in the ways that I talk about my marriage," he said. O'Rourke, 46, also said he was "mortified" when he reread the violent fiction he wrote as a teen, which received fresh attention Friday after a Reuters report outlined his involvement in a hacker group as a teen. O'Rourke wrote a handful of posts on the group's message board under the name "Psychedelic Warlord," including a fictional piece he penned when he was 15 about children getting run over by a car. "I'm mortified to read it now, incredibly embarrassed, but I have to take ownership of my words," he said. "Whatever my intention was as a teenager doesn't matter, I have to look long and hard at my actions, at the language I have used, and I have to constantly try to do better." O'Rourke had said after an earlier campaign stop that it was "stuff I was part of as a teenager." "It's not anything I'm proud of today, and I mean, that's that's the long and short of it," he said. "All I can do is my best, which is what I'm trying to do. I can't control anything I've done in the past. I can only control what I do going forward and what I plan to do is give this my best." The comments came on the second day of a presidential campaign in which O'Rourke is seeking to establish himself as a unique voice in the race. He avoided what has become something of a tradition among the 2020 contenders by refusing to announce how much money he raised in the 24 hours after announcing his candidacy. He said it would be soon. "I don't have a definite plan," he added. "We're not ready to release them now." The former Texas congressman entered the 2020 presidential race Thursday after months of speculation. He raised an eye-popping $80 million in grassroots donations last year in his failed U.S. Senate race in Texas against Republican Ted Cruz, all while largely avoiding money from political action committees. His early fundraising numbers will be an initial signal of whether his popularity during the Senate campaign will carry over to his White House bid. So far, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders has set the pace for grassroots donations in 2020, pulling in $6 million during his first day as a candidate. Asked if he thought he would top Sanders, O'Rourke said only, "We'll see." O'Rourke's reception during his first Iowa swing was overwhelmingly positive, even as he launched his campaign by hitting a handful of counties that had shifted from supporting Democrat Barack Obama to backing Republican Donald Trump during the 2016 campaign. Most of the towns O'Rourke visited during his first two days in the state were small and rural, manufacturing or farming towns. He kicked off his bid in Keokuk, population 10,300, dropped by a private home in Fairfield, a town about the same size, and jumped atop a coffee shop counter to address the crowd in Mount Pleasant, population 8,500. The strategy set O'Rourke apart from the rest of the field, many of whom have focused their early swings on the state's population centers or on the traditionally blue counties that make up the bulk of the Democratic primary electorate. Norm Sterzenbach, who's advising O'Rourke in Iowa, said the strategy came out of the Texan's desire to do more intimate events in his first swing through Iowa. "He didn't want to do big rallies or big events. He wanted to get into communities and really talk to Iowans, and he wanted to go to smaller towns, smaller communities, and places that had been neglected" by politicians, he said. It was an approach reminiscent of his Texas Senate bid, where O'Rourke hit every one of the state's 254 counties, even the most rural areas, some of which hadn't been visited by Democratic candidates in years. O'Rourke didn't commit to visiting all of Iowa's 99 counties what's locally known as the "Full Grassley," after Iowa's senior Republican senator, Chuck Grassley, who's famous for doing the full swing but he said he planned to visit as much of Iowa as possible. That go-everywhere, speak-to-everyone strategy brought him within 3 points of defeating Cruz in Texas, the nation's largest red state. Since the ambitious and controversial Green New Deal debuted last month, Republicans and Democrats have sparred over the cost of the measure a nonbinding resolution that broadly outlines how the U.S. should address climate change over the next decade. But sometimes the politicians have erred in their descriptions of the proposal and the costs of climate action and inaction. Numerous Republicans have touted a $93 trillion price tag for the resolution. President Donald Trump has rounded that up to $100 trillion. But the estimate, which comes from a right-leaning think tank, has important caveats, and experts told us the Green New Deal is too vague to try to estimate its cost. Sen. Ed Markey, the Democratic sponsor of the resolution, claimed that without any action climate change will result in 10% GDP loss by 2090, citing the National Climate Assessment. That number is an upper-end estimate, and two of the researchers who did the original study caution against using it. Well explain the origin of Markeys 10 percent gross domestic product line, and go over why its not the best way to summarize the economic impacts of climate change. And well demystify the seemingly specific $93 trillion figure, which the think tank reports own authors say should not be the only takeaway. Weve already written about the Green New Deal, and the confusion over what the resolution entails. Some of that applies here, too, as many Republicans continue to say the proposal covers things it doesnt. The Green New Deal, which hasnt yet come up for a vote in either chamber, is a nonbinding resolution that calls for the country to address climate change by reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions through a 10-year national mobilization. The proposal requires that the transition to clean energy be done in a way that is sensitive to vulnerable populations, and includes other large-scale goals, such as providing all Americans with health care, housing and economic security. $93 Trillion? In the past two weeks, the cost of the Green New Deal has been a relentless focus for Republicans, including during a Feb. 27 Western Caucus forum and press conference organized by Arizona Rep. Paul Gosar that was devoted to denouncing the proposal. At the annual Conservative Political Action Conference on Mar. 2, Trump said the Democrats would completely takeover American energy and completely destroy Americas economy through their new $100 trillion Green New Deal. And on Mar. 5, Eric Trump, the presidents second eldest son and an executive vice president of the Trump Organization, said on Fox News Radio that the proposal would cost $93 trillion, adding, falsely, that it banned airplanes, cows and cars. (As weve explained before, the Green New Deal doesnt call for any of those prohibitions.) Sens. John Barrasso, Mitch McConnell, John Cornyn and Joni Ernst, among many others, have also cited the same $93 trillion figure. The number is an estimate from the American Action Forum, a self-described center-right policy institute. The AAF is the sister organization of the American Action Network, a conservative nonprofit that has spent tens of millions of dollars supporting Republicans in general elections. The AAN is a tax-exempt 501(c)(4) that doesnt disclose donors, but must disclose any independent expenditures on TV ads for or against specific candidates to the Federal Election Commission. In a brief analysis, the AAF estimated costs for six sectors related to Green New Deal goals, including clean energy, high-speed rail, a job guarantee, health care, green housing and food security. The estimated costs only include outlays, and dont factor in economic benefits or other effects. The group produced a single figure or range for each category, which, when tallied, runs from $51 trillion to $93 trillion between 2020 and 2029. The summed figures dont appear in the report, although they are mentioned in a separate summary. The upper number has gotten the most attention. But the experts we spoke to said its not possible to put a specific price tag on the Green New Deal. Id say that it is *way* too early to even pretend to put cost estimates on the Green New Deal. Its at this point a still-amorphous construct, said Josh Bivens, director of research at the labor-funded Economic Policy Institute, in an email to FactCheck.org. Noah Kaufman, a research scholar at Columbia Universitys Center on Global Energy Policy, agreed. When asked what one can say about how much the Green New Deal would cost, he said, basically nothing. The Green New Deal, he said, is a set of ambitions, not policies, and how much things cost will depend on what the policies are. You cant use policy analysis if you dont have policy, said Kaufman, who previously served as President Barack Obamas deputy associate director of energy and climate change. It just seems definitely premature and a little misleading to try to claim we know how much. Jeffrey Miron, the director of economic studies at the libertarian Cato Institute, said, Its hard to be very precise because a lot of the proposals are broad brush and vague. He nevertheless noted that other estimates including one back-of-the-envelope calculation from Bloomberg Opinion writer Noah Smith, which came out to $6.6 trillion every year have been roughly the same as the American Action Forums figure. The president of the American Action Forum and a co-author of the analysis, Douglas Holtz-Eakin, defended the estimate, but acknowledged that using the $93 trillion figure by itself was not ideal. The figures not wrong, but its incomplete, he said, adding that in a perfect world, people would give ranges and convey uncertainty. Holtz-Eakin is a former director of the Congressional Budget Office and was John McCains chief economic adviser during the 2008 presidential campaign. A better numerical summary of the findings, Holtz-Eakin said, would be $50 trillion to $90 trillion, with some mention of the nuances in the report. The analysis, for example, notes that the breadth of the Green New Deal makes it daunting to apply the standard tools of policy analysis. The paper goes on to say that the Green New Deal would result in changes that are impossible to quantify at this point, and that redundancy in certain policies complicates a precise analysis, as the interactions are difficult to predict. Those caveats arent included when Republicans bring up the Green New Deals price tag. Strictly speaking, as a nonbinding resolution that would require other legislation to carry out its goals, the Green New Deal costs nothing. Even if it passed both the House and the Senate, it would not have the force of law. Lawmakers would have to propose other legislation to act on any of the broad goals in the resolution. And that legislation would include specific policy proposals, which the CBO would score as it would any other bill. The score would then be provided to lawmakers so they could be informed about the impact of the legislation on the federal budget. The AAF estimate shouldnt be thought of as the same or even similar to a CBO cost estimate, which estimates the full impact of the legislation on the federal budget, given spending and revenue changes. A Closer Look We wont pick through all of the AAF estimate most economists we spoke to didnt want to comment on it. As Miron said, its impossible to argue about details because the exact proposals dont have enough details. But a few key examples help explain why the $93 trillion figure is problematic. Because none of the Green New Deals policies are defined yet, the estimates authors had to make assumptions about what sorts of policies would be made. In the case of health care, AAF authors assumed the Green New Deal would be similar to Sen. Bernie Sanders Medicare for All proposal, despite the fact that the only thing the resolution says about health care is that it should be high-quality and provided to all people of the United States. The group calculated that single line item would cost $36 trillion over a decade. As Miron pointed out, there are a variety of different universal health care systems that one could choose to implement, and the costs for each vary widely. Similarly, the AAF estimate also makes assumptions about the Green New Deals plan to invest in high-speed rail. The estimate states, inaccurately, that the Green New Deal envisions enough high-speed rail to make air travel unnecessary. That idea was originally included in a FAQ sheet that Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortezs office distributed to news organizations, but it does not appear in the resolution. The resolution, which Ocasio-Cortez sponsored in the House, simply mentions investment in high-speed rail as one way of overhauling transportation systems to reduce pollution and greenhouse emissions in the sector as much as is technologically feasible. Furthermore, the rail estimate isnt reliable because it claims to come from the number of airline miles flown multiplied by a cost per mile estimate. But the airline miles number that was used actually represents the number of airports in the country. Redundancies, too, could have a large impact on the ultimate cost of any Green New Deal. Miron explained that some of the Green New Deals goals would have substantial overlap with others, which could lead to double-counting. For example, if theres infrastructure spending to build new rail lines, that could create jobs, reducing the costs of a jobs program. But the AAF estimate counts both separately, without factoring in those interactions. Holtz-Eakin said his group would have accounted for this if it could have. Cost of Going Green Its worth noting that more than 80 percent of the AAF estimate was for social programs such as health care, not for clean energy and climate policies. Kaufman, the Columbia researcher, said he does have concerns about cost, but reducing greenhouse gas emissions doesnt have to break the bank. It turns out if you do something like carbon tax and use that money to reduce other taxes, what happens is you get a drastic reduction on emissions and basically no effect on the economy at all, he said. Economists of all stripes generally agree that the most efficient way to cut emissions is to put a price on carbon. If the Green New Deal were not to take such an approach, the costs would almost certainly be much higher. Several economists have looked at how to implement plans that reach or work toward net zero emissions. Robert Pollin, an economist at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, thinks its entirely possible to get to net zero by 2050 by spending around 2 percent of GDP each year, or around $18 trillion in total. $18 trillion is real money, he said. But when you spread it out over 30 years, its entirely feasible and it will have a lot of economic benefits in addition to getting us down to zero emissions. Under his scenario, Pollin says the economy would continue to grow and consumers would not see increases in their utility bills one of the prospects that some politicians have highlighted under a shift to a greener economy. Pollin, however, strongly disagrees with the resolutions aim of getting to net zero with just a decade of investment. I think its completely unrealistic and its not worth costing out, he said of the Green New Deal. Edward Barbier, an economist at Colorado State University, agrees that a strict timeline isnt realistic. He advocates jump-starting the transition by investing about 5 percent of GDP over five or so years. GDP was $20.5 trillion in 2018, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, so thats a little over $1 trillion a year. That would push us on a path to clean energy, and a path that permanently lowers carbon emissions, he told us. After that push, Barbier said the costs of renewables and other technologies would fall, and the country would be able to take advantage of those reductions. 10 Percent of GDP? As Republicans have attacked the Green New Deal because of its potential price tag, Democrats have hit back, arguing that the costs of climate change are also high. Sen. Ed Markey of Massachusetts, for example, pointed to the National Climate Assessment and a frequently cited GDP statistic. Climate change is literally destroying the planet. According to the Trump admin's National Climate Assessment, with no action, climate change will result in 10% GDP loss by 2090. A #GreenNewDeal addresses this climate reality, not right-wing misinformationhttps://t.co/3m3fKAd94t Ed Markey (@SenMarkey) February 28, 2019 The National Climate Assessment doesnt make such a definite prediction, and the scientists behind the number say it really shouldnt be used without providing more context. One told us a better estimate to use would be roughly 4 percent of GDP, but that, too, is only a projection. (Climate change, it should also be noted, is making life more difficult for humans and many other organisms on Earth, but it wont literally destroy the planet, as Markey said.) The GDP estimate doesnt appear anywhere in the text of the climate report. Instead, its found in a graphic that was reprinted from a 2017 Science paper. The graph plots out damage to the U.S. economy by around 2090 as a function of various climate scenarios and temperature increases. Damages amounting to 10 percent of GDP are projected only under the higher climate scenario, which assumes emissions continue unabated, and under large temperature changes. One of the Science papers authors, Amir Jina, wrote an entire article in Forbes to explain the research after several news outlets highlighted the 10 percent figure in their coverage of the fourth National Climate Assessment. Jina, who is an environmental economist at the University of Chicago, explained that the number mischaracterizes his study. The number is too high because losses equivalent to 10 percent of GDP are unlikely. While it is true that we estimated damages as high as 10% of GDP annually at the end of the century for warming of 15F above pre-industrial levels, the odds of a temperature change that would drive damages of this magnitude are slim, he wrote. In fact, they are less than 1-in-100 by our original calculation. The study found that for every 1.8 degree Fahrenheit increase in global mean temperature, the damages would amount to about 1.2 percent of GDP. The researchers arrived at those numbers by tabulating the economic benefits and losses under different temperature increases from six sectors, including agriculture, crime, energy, human mortality and labor. At the same time, Jina said there is also a chance that 10 percent of GDP is an underestimate. Thats because the number includes only a subset of the impacts, and not others, such as ecosystem damages, that the researchers didnt have enough information to model. And Jina noted that even if climate changes impact on the economy as a whole is small, some locales will be hit much harder than others. Under a more likely scenario of a 7 degree Fahrenheit temperature increase, many individual counties in the U.S. could experience damages of more than 10 percent of GDP by the end of the century. The economic toll of climate change in Floridas Union County, for example, could be close to 28 percent of the countys GDP. Robert Kopp, a climate scientist at Rutgers University and a fellow co-author of the Science paper, said Markeys phrasing is incorrect because he said climate change will result in the 10 percent loss in GDP, when that level of damage is just one possibility. But Kopp said Markey also failed to mention another assumption baked into the number, which is that researchers were factoring in a limited level of adaptation. The group included the sorts of things that people have done in the past to respond to heat or cold, for instance, but not novel approaches. If people are more creative and come up with better ways of adapting to climate change, that wouldnt be reflected in the economic damages. If that sounds like a minor thing, it gets at a fundamental aspect that many people misunderstand about climate science. Weve discussed it before with climate scenarios, but Kopp said the goal of the study wasnt to predict the future, but to understand a range of possibilities so scientists are more aware of the level of risk the country will have to manage. Thats a slightly different perspective that often gets lost when politicians and others summarize these sorts of findings. Finally, Kopp explained that his study wasnt estimating how much climate change would reduce GDP, but rather, how much the costs would be, expressed as a percent of GDP. A good chunk of the calculated GDP damages come from people dying, so the group estimated those costs using the governments estimate of how much people value a life a common practice in economics and turned that into a GDP-equivalent. Keeping all these caveats in mind, Kopp said its better for Markey and others to say that around the turn of the next century, climate change could result in annual damages worth roughly 4 percent of GDP. Even this lower value at the economys current size would reach about $16 trillion between 2080 and 2099. When factoring in growth of the economy, the cost of climate change could easily balloon into the tens of trillions. Thus, while Markey flubbed this particular statistic, hes not wrong that scientists expect substantial damages from climate change if little action is taken. For Kopp, thats where the value of the Green New Deal comes in. The only way to stabilize the climate is to get to net zero emissions, he said, and the proposal is starting a discussion about how to do that. What to Know The Arlington County Board approved unanimously Saturday a multimillion-dollar incentives package for Amazon The company has announced plans to build a massive campus and bring more than 35,000 jobs to Arlington County Opponents say the company doesn't need county funds and will cause housing prices to balloon in the area After a meeting punctuated by angry audience outbursts, the Arlington County Board voted up a multimillion-dollar incentives package for Amazon, which has announced plans to build its second headquarters in Crystal City, Virginia. The 5-0 vote on Saturday came after an extensive public comment period in which more than 100 people signed up to speak, including several community opponents to Amazon's arrival. The tense public meeting featured heated back-and-forths between board and community members. As board members announced their "yes" votes, people in the audience shouted "shame." Prior to this, Arlington County Board Chair recessed meeting after protestors started chanting. Chairman allowed @amazon reps to leave hearing room via rear door behind dais thus avoiding public. Amazon reps never returned. https://t.co/Ps5p8Wbozl Mark Segraves (@SegravesNBC4) March 16, 2019 Under the proposed package, Amazon could receive a direct payout estimated to be worth $23 million directly from the county and benefit from $458 million in transportation, housing and infrastructure spending over a 10-15 year period. The direct incentives will come from a hotel tax called the Transient Occupancy Tax. Arlington County expects to see more money flood in from that tax as business travelers come to the Amazon campus and would give Amazon up to 15 percent of revenue over 15 years. The county's taxpayers will pay for some of the infrastructure investments, and grants will cover more, under the proposal. Business leaders including the local Chamber of Commerce support the package, saying the economic benefits far outweigh the money spent to lure Amazon. Arlington County expects a $342 million revenue boost over 16 years, mostly from property taxes. The state of Virginia has already approved a $750 million incentives package for the company. Opponents are concerned that Amazons second headquarters will cause housing prices to balloon, forcing out residents. A coalition of unions, progressive groups, racial justice advocates and environmentalists also take issue with the companys anti-union moves and partnership with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), according to a letter signed by thirty organizations. County documents say much of the package is contingent on the tech company fulfilling promises, including: Create up to 37,850 jobs to the county with an average wage of $150,000 a year plus benefits. Spend $2.5 billion in capital investments in the county (Such as building out office space) Occupy 6,000,000 square feet of office space from 2019 to 2034 County Manager Mark Schwartz recommended the board approve the plan and the five-member body is expected to follow that recommendation. The board meeting on Saturday featured heated commentary from community members, including some outbursts that interrupted the board's deliberations and led to at least two recesses. Some community members who spoke against the proposal said that board members did not understand the fear Amazon's arrival poses for low-income and immigrant communities. "This vote today is about racial justice," Danny Cendejas, a member of the La ColectiVA advocacy group, said. "We have been talking to folks in communities of color, immigrant communities. We have been hearing consistently the concerns about gentrification." Other speakers noted Amazon's relationship with ICE as a reason not to endorse the incentives. Board Chair Christian Dorsey acknowledged concerns with Amazon's relationship with ICE but said that frustrations with immigration policies should be directed to the federal government, not Amazon. Board members also praised the work by county officials who won the bid to bring Amazon to Northern Virginia. Board Vice Chair Libby Garvey said she is excited for the future of Arlington with Amazon. "Arlington has done a lot of changing in the 40 plus years I have been here and we are ready for this change," Garvey said. "We've planned for this growth, we've planned for these jobs, but we did not expect to get so much of this in one agreement." And County Board member Erik Gutshall said Amazon's arrival has helped to revitalize community-driven activism. "Arlington's story has long been rooted in excellent citizen-driven planning," Gutshall said. "Now it's this board's opportunity to define the future of our wonderful little county." Still, all board members acknowledged that the county must redouble its efforts to secure more affordable housing, investments in education and infrastructure and managed economic growth. "You don't deal with affordability by keeping people out. You deal with affordability by growing the supply," Dorsey said. "The work now truly begins." After heated opposition from residents and lawmakers, Amazon dropped a plan to open another massive campus in New York City. So far, the company has found Virginia more welcoming. Divided in debate but mostly united in a final vote, the House passed a resolution condemning anti-Semitism and other bigotry Thursday, with Democrats trying to push past a dispute that has overwhelmed their agenda and exposed fault lines that could shadow them through next year's elections. The one-sided 407-23 vote belied the emotional infighting over how to respond to freshman Rep. Ilhan Omar's recent comments suggesting House supporters of Israel have dual allegiances. For days, Democrats wrestled with whether or how to punish the lawmaker, arguing over whether Omar, one of two Muslim women in Congress, should be singled out, what other types of bias should be decried in the text and whether the party would tolerate dissenting views on Israel. Republicans generally joined in the favorable vote, though nearly two-dozen opposed the measure, one calling it a "sham." Generational as well as ideological, the argument was fueled in part by young, liberal lawmakers and voters who have become a face of the newly empowered Democratic majority in the House. These lawmakers are critical of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, rejecting the conservative leader's approach to Palestinians and other issues. They split sharply from Democratic leaders who seemed caught off guard by the support for Omar and unprepared for the debate. But the leaders regrouped. "It's not about her. It's about these forms of hatred," Speaker Nancy Pelosi said before the vote. The resolution approved Thursday condemns anti-Semitism, anti-Muslim discrimination and bigotry against minorities "as hateful expressions of intolerance." Omar, a Somali-American, and fellow Muslims Rashida Tlaib of Michigan and Andrew Carson of Indiana, issued a statement praising the "historic" vote as the first resolution to condemn "anti-Muslim bigotry." Some Democrats complained that Omar's comments on Israel had ignited all this debate while years of President Donald Trump's racially charged rhetoric had led to no similar congressional action. The seven-page document details a history of recent attacks not only against Jews in the United States but also Muslims, as it condemns all such discrimination as contradictory to "the values and aspirations" of the people of the United States. The vote was delayed for a time on Thursday to include mention of Latinos to address concerns of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. It was inserted under a section on white supremacists who "weaponize hate for political gain" over a long list of "traditionally persecuted peoples." An earlier version focused more narrowly on anti-Semitism. The final resolution did not mention Omar by name. Getting this debate right will be crucial for Democrats in 2020. U.S.-Israel policy is a prominent issue that is exposing the splits between the party's core voters, its liberal flank and the more centrist Americans in Trump country the party hopes to reach. "What I fear is going on in the House now is an effort to target Congresswoman Omar as a way of stifling that debate. That's wrong," said presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders, the Vermont independent. "Anti-Semitism is a hateful and dangerous ideology which must be vigorously opposed in the United States and around the world," the senator said. "We must not, however, equate anti-Semitism with legitimate criticism of the right-wing, Netanyahu government in Israel." Other Democratic presidential contenders tried to walk a similar line. California Democratic Sen. Kamala Harris said "we need to speak out against hate." But she said she also believes "there is a critical difference between criticism of policy or political leaders, and anti-Semitism." A statement from Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts said, "Branding criticism of Israel as automatically anti-Semitic has a chilling effect on our public discourse and makes it harder to achieve a peaceful solution between Israelis and Palestinians." She said threats of violence, including those made against Omar, "are never acceptable. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand of New York said, "Everyone is entitled to their opinion, they are allowed to have free speech in this country," Gillibrand said. "But we don't need to use anti-Semitic tropes or anti-Muslim tropes to be heard." Another member of the new crop of outspoken young House freshmen, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, said the final product, as well as the way presidential candidates are now talking about the issue, showed "there's been some really great progress we've made." But Omar's rhetoric is taking Democrats to a place that leaves many uneasy. The new lawmaker sparked a weeklong debate in Congress as fellow Democrats said her comments have no place in the party. She suggested Israel's supporters were pushing lawmakers to take a pledge of "allegiance" to a foreign country, reviving a trope of dual loyalties. It wasn't her first dip into such rhetoric. The new congresswoman has been critical of the Jewish state in the past and apologized for those previous comments. But Omar has not apologized for what this latest comment. Pelosi said she did not believe that Omar understood the "weight of her words" or that they would be perceived by some as anti-Semitic. Asked whether the resolution was intended to "police" lawmakers' words, Pelosi replied: "We are not policing the speech of our members." Instead, she said, the goal was to condemn anti-Semitism, Islamophobia and white supremacy. Some of the House's leading Jewish Democrats wanted to bring a resolution on the floor simply condemning anti-Semitism. But other Democrats wanted to broaden the resolution to include a rejection of all forms of racism and bigotry. Others questioned whether a resolution was necessary at all and viewed it as unfairly singling out Omar at a time when Trump and others have made disparaging racial comments. There remained frustration that the party that touts its diversity conducted such a messy and public debate about how to declare its opposition to bigotry. "This shouldn't be so hard," Rep. Ted Deutch, D-Fla., said on the House floor. Among the Republican dissenters, Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming, a member of the GOP leadership, called the resolution "a sham put forward by Democrats to avoid condemning one of their own and denouncing vile anti-Semitism." In part, Democratic leaders were trying to fend off a challenge from Republicans on the issue. They worry they could run into trouble on another bill, their signature ethics and voting reform package, if Republicans try to tack their own anti-Semitism bill on as an amendment. By voting Thursday, the House Democratic vote counters believed they could inoculate their lawmakers against such a move. A body discovered over the weekend in a wooded area of Fredericksburg, Virginia, is that of a 16-year-old boy and authorities believe he was murdered in Prince George's County, Maryland. Police say Jacson Chicas, of Falls Church, was killed inside a home in the 7000 block of Varnum Street in Landover Hills. His killers then dumped his remains in an area between River Road and the Rappahannock River, police said. A sheriff's deputy discovered his body off River Road near Route 3 on Saturday. Chicas' mother, who did not want to be identified, told News4 in Spanish that her son was forced to join the MS-13 gang in El Salvador and that's why their family fled the country. But Chicas was unable to escape the gang's grip in America. She said Chicas was trying to leave MS-13 and he had started living at a house in Prince George's County to spare his parents and siblings from danger. Chicas' mother said when gang members accused him of talking to police they threatened to kill his family and he told them to kill himself instead. His mother said she knew her son was dead when she saw the photo police posted of a bloody forearm tattoo. The Stafford County Sheriff's office said Thursday it is collaborating with Prince George's County police in the investigation. In a video posted to Twitter, the Stafford County Sheriff's office also asked anyone to report suspicious activity they may have witnessed, including a car parked overnight along the road. On Friday, Prince George's County police said four men and a teenager were arrested and charged in connection to Chicas' murder. Police said all five suspects are part of an MS-13 "clique" that operates in Fairfax County, Virginia. Police asked anyone who may have information related to the case to call 540-658-4450. World leaders expressed condolences and condemnation Friday following the deadly attacks on mosques in New Zealand, while Muslim leaders said the mass shooting was evidence of a rising tide of violent Islamophobia. New Zealand police said at least 49 people were killed Friday at two mosques in the picturesque South Island city of Christchurch. Several dozen more were seriously wounded in what Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern called a "terrorist attack." Ardern said migrants and refugees affected by the attacks "have chosen to make New Zealand their home, and it is their home. They are us." One man was arrested and charged with murder in what appeared to be a carefully planned racist attack. Police also defused explosive devices in a car. Two other people were being held in custody and police were trying to determine how they might be involved. Shootings at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, left dozens of people dead on Friday. Police say three men and a woman are in custody. Prime Minster Jacinda Ardern said, "There is no place in New Zealand for such acts of extreme and unprecedented violence." Among the four people initially taken into custody one was later released was an Australian man. A man who earlier claimed responsibility for the shooting said he was a 28-year-old Australian and described anti-immigrant motives in a long manifesto. The manifesto mentioned popular YouTuber Pewdiepie, who responded in a tweet by saying he was "absolutely sickened having my name uttered by this person." Pewdiepie, whose name is Felix Kjellberg, offered condolences to the people affected by the shooting. Condolences poured in from nations around the world. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said: "We are outraged, and we stand here and condemn absolutely the attack that occurred today by an extremist right wing terrorist. This attack reminds us of the evil that is ever present." Queen Elizabeth II, who is New Zealand's head of state, said in a message to the country she was "deeply saddened by the appalling events in Christchurch" and sent condolences to families and friends of victims. The queen also paid tribute to emergency services and volunteers supporting the injured. [NATL] Photos: Mourning, Increased Security After Deadly Mosque Shootings in New Zealand "At this tragic time, my thoughts and prayers are with all New Zealanders," she said in her message. The secretary-general of the 57-nation Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Youssef al-Othaimeen, said in a statement that the attack "served as a further warning on the obvious dangers of hate, intolerance, and Islamophobia." Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called the attacks the "latest example of rising racism and Islamophobia." Speaking at the funeral of a former minister, Erdogan said the Islamophobia that motivated the attacks "has rapidly started to take over Western communities like a cancer." Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan echoed those sentiments. "I blame these increasing terror attacks on the current Islamophobia post-9/11 where Islam & 1.3 bn Muslims have collectively been blamed for any act of terror by a Muslim," he tweeted. Nihad Awad, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, noted that the purported gunman's manifesto quoted U.S. President Donald Trump and called on Trump to clearly condemn the attack and assure people that they will be protected. "Mr. Trump, your words matter. Your policies matter. They impact the lives of innocent people at home and globally," Awad said. "You should condemn this, not only as a hate crime, but as a white supremacist terrorist attack." Trump, in a tweet, had earlier sent "warmest sympathy and best wishes" to the people of New Zealand in a tweet. He wrote that "49 innocent people have so senselessly died, with so many more seriously injured. The U.S. stands by New Zealand for anything we can do. God bless all!" Awad called the message in Trump's tweet "a first step" that nevertheless rang hollow. On Thursday night in the U.S., as early reports of the shootings were coming in, he tweeted a link to right-wing Breitbart News, which had interviewed him. The tweet was deleted by Friday morning. His press secretary, Sarah Sanders, released a statement Friday morning saying the country "strongly condemns the attack" and that the U.S. stands "against this vicious act of hate." Several police departments across the United States said they increased security around mosques in response to the shooting. New York City Mayor Bill De Blasio said: "The people of New Zealand are in the hearts and minds of New York City tonight as heartbreaking reports continue out of Christchurch. Our love and prayers are with all impacted by the horrific attack at these mosques." Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-NY, weighed in, drawing comparisons to the mass shootings that have occurred at various houses of worship in the U.S.: "At 1st I thought of saying, 'Imagine being told your house of faith isnt safe anymore.' But I couldnt say 'imagine.' Because of Charleston. Pittsburgh. Sutherland Springs." European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker tweeted that he learned of the attack "with horror and profound sadness." "The European Union will always stand with #NewZealand and against those who heinously want to destroy our societies and our way of life," he wrote. In France, home to western Europe's largest Muslim community, Interior Minister Christophe Castaner ordered regional authorities to bolster security at mosques as a precaution. London's mayor, Sadiq Khan, said the city's Metropolitan Police force would be visible outside mosques. "London stands with the people of Christchurch in the face of this horrific terror attack," he said. "London will always celebrate the diversity that some seek to destroy." Indonesia's president Joko Widodo condemned the attacks, in which an Indonesian father and son were among those wounded. Indonesian Muslim leaders expressed anger at the shooting rampage while urging Muslims to show restraint. Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said bigotry in Western countries contributed to the attacks on Muslims in New Zealand. In a Friday tweet, he also criticized the West for "defending demonization of Muslims as 'freedom of expression.'" Afghanistan's Taliban movement Islamic militants who carry out near-daily attacks on Afghan security forces also condemned the shooting rampage, calling it an "unforgivable crime." Taliban spokesman Qari Mohammad Yusuf called on the New Zealand government to investigate "the root cause of such terrorism and hand a hefty punishment to the attackers." Lebanon's Hezbollah militant group, which is considered a terrorist organization by Western countries, condemned the "policy of hatred that the United States is feeding around the world instead of prevailing religious values that call for forgiveness." Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the attacks a "brazen act of terror." His office said on Twitter that Israel mourns the murder of innocent worshippers, condemns the assault and sends its condolences to bereaved families. Jordan's King Abdullah II tweeted that "the heinous massacre against Muslims praying in peace in New Zealand is an appalling terrorist crime. It unites us against extremism, hatred and terrorism, which knows no religion." Jordan's Foreign Ministry confirmed that one Jordanian was killed and five wounded in the attack. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas extended his country's sympathies to those who lost loved ones, saying "if people are murdered solely because of their religion, that is an attack on all of us." Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe condemned the "dastardly terrorist attack" and offered his condolences, as did several other world leaders. A telegram of condolences sent by the Vatican on behalf of Pope Francis said he was "deeply saddened to learn of the injury and loss of life" caused by the "senseless acts of violence" in Christchurch. He assured all New Zealanders, and in particular the Muslim community, of his "heartfelt solidarity." The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority is using shuttle buses to replace the T's blue line after a massive fire broke out in East Boston Friday afternoon. According to the MBTA, shuttle buses are replacing blue line service between Airport and Wonderland stations until further notice. Replacement buses are serving all inbound blue line stations. They are also serving all outbound stations, with the exception of Suffolk Downs due to ongoing fire department activity, the MBTA said. The change in service comes after a nine-alarm fire broke out at the New England Casket Company in East Boston Friday afternoon. According to the MBTA, it is now in the process of deploying a network of equipment to pump out water in the track bed and vehicle yard in the area of Orient Heights. Once this work is done, the MBTA will assess the extent of any damage to signal, power and track infrastructure and make a determination as to any repair needs. It will also at that time have a better understanding of how long it will take to restore full service. The MBTA encourages customers to visit their website www.MBTA.com for updates. A 30-year-old man who was in critical condition following a shooting in Methuen, Massachusetts, has died and a suspect is in custody, according to officials. Kelvin Frias, of Lawrence, was rushed Friday to a Boston hospital via helicopter after he was found suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. He died from his injuries Saturday morning, the Essex County district attorney said. Police responded just before 3 a.m. Friday to the area of 170 Broadway for a reported shooting. There, they found Frias. Officials investigating the shooting identified 24-year-old Remy Salazar, of Lawrence, as the suspect and said they did not believe it was a random act of violence. Salazar was tracked to a Nashua, New Hampshire, residence where he was apprehended Friday afternoon on unrelated outstanding warrants. The Essex State Police detective unit and Methuen police obtained an arrest warrant Saturday afternoon charging Salazar with murder. "I commend the excellent teamwork among the Mass State Police assets and the Methuen and Nashua, NH police that resulted in the suspect's apprehension without further incident thus eliminating the threat to the publics safety," Methuen Police Chief Joseph Solomon said. Salazar is expected to appear in Nashua District Court Monday morning on the outstanding warrants and on a fugitive from justice charge. It's not immediately clear when he will return to Massachusetts to face the murder charge or if he has an attorney. The investigation is ongoing. Vermont State Police detectives are investigating the death of a Burlington man who was found dead two days after he was involved in an altercation with a Burlington police officer. On Thursday, the body of 54-year-old Douglas Kilburn was found in his Burlington home. Burlington police say that on Monday night officers were called to the emergency department of the University of Vermont Medical Center where Kilburn allegedly hit officer Cory Campbell in the face. Campbell then punched Kilburn in return. Kilburn was treated for his injuries and released from the hospital on Tuesday. He was cited for a variety of charges. Two days later he was found dead. Officials are trying to determine the cause of Kilburn's death. Campbell was placed on administrative leave until Monday. Police say a Vermont State Police trooper who collapsed after apparently being exposed to an opioid-like drug during a traffic stop was revived by fellow troopers who administered the overdose-reversal drug Narcan. Acting Sgt. Brett Flansburg stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation on Leicester Whiting Road in Leicester late Friday. Flansburg searched the car after a passenger, later identified as Taylor C. Woodward, 25, of Brandon, admitted swallowing a small bag of cocaine. Vermont State Police Flansburg collected a small quantity of heroin, an empty plastic baggie and a syringe. Woodward was taken into custody by other troopers. Flansburg began to feel ill and he collapsed in the parking lot of the New Haven barracks. Other troopers administered two doses of Narcan. He received a third dose on the way to the hospital. Flansburg was later released from the hospital. As a precaution, Woodward was also brought separately to the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington. It was determined that he did not need medical care, State Police said. Woodward is set to appear in Vermont Superior Court, Criminal Division, in Middlebury on May 6 to answer to a misdemeanor charge of possession of heroin. Testing is currently being done to determine the substance to which Flansburg was exposed. 'They concluded he was drunk. He was stumbling and giggling and smelled of alcohol' POLICE ambushed a drink-driver after he abandoned his car to go to a Newbury nightclub. They had been alerted to reports of the vehicle being driven erratically earlier in the evening, Reading magistrates heard on Thursday, March 7. In the dock was 29-year-old Alexandru Therdohlib, of Queens Road. Clare Barclay, prosecuting, said: Just before midnight members of the public saw a vehicle being driven erratically and were concerned the driver had been drinking. The police were informed and they found the vehicle parked in Cheap Street in Newbury, but no one in it. They asked CCTV operators to keep watch on the car. Just after 4.30am the defendant was seen to go to the car and get in the drivers door. Mr Therdohlib drove off towards the A339, the court heard, but police had been alerted and soon caused him to pull over. Ms Barclay said: They concluded he was drunk. He was stumbling and giggling and smelled of alcohol. Mr Therdohlib admitted driving a Ford Fiesta on Mill Lane, Newbury, on February 17 after drinking more than the legal limit. Tests showed 70mcg of alcohol per 100ml of breath in his system twice the legal limit of 35mcg. Joanna Benn, defending, said her client had no previous convictions and added: He had driven into Newbury town centre and went to a nightclub where he drank beer. He was compliant with the officers and tells me he doesnt feel good about what he did and is grateful no one was hurt as a consequence. He works for a local medical company and sends money home to his wife and two children in Romania. Magistrates fined Mr Therdohlib 300 and ordered him to pay 85 costs, plus a statutory victim services surcharge of 30. In addition, he was banned from driving for 18 months. Response times for some of the district's areas were nearly three times longer than in other locations across Berkshire RURAL villages in West Berkshire had some of the longest ambulance response times in the whole of the county last year, an investigation has revealed. Residents living in villages and hamlets which fall under the RG20 postcode faced the longest wait for paramedics between January and October 2018. In West Berkshire, these included Chieveley and Compton, where patients experienced an average wait of 12-and-a-half minutes for an ambulance to arrive. This was more than the average response time for rural areas across the UK, which was 11 minutes and 13 seconds. North Hampshire residents living in Ashmansworth, Ecchinswell, Leckhampstead, Highclere, Kingsclere and Sydmonton also faced the same wait. The findings came from an investigation by the BBC, which obtained the average response times for the most life-threatening callouts in more than 2,700 local communities across Britain. These include cardiac arrests, stab wounds, major blood loss, seizures, patients not breathing or struggling to breathe and women in the late stages of labour. Residents living in the RG8 post code areas of Pangbourne, Goring and Streatley faced the second-longest wait in West Berkshire, with an average wait for an ambulance of 11 minutes and 36 seconds. And ambulances take on average 11 minutes and one second to reach RG7 post codes including Aldermaston, Bradfield, Burghfield Common, Silchester and Mortimer. The quickest response time in West Berkshire was in Tilehurst and Purley-on-Thames, where the average time to reach critical patients was six minutes and 20 seconds. Ambulance services in England are expected to reach patients within an average of seven minutes, but there are different targets depending on where you live. Those living in rural communities wait for 50 per cent longer than the seven minutes and 14 seconds it takes for an ambulance to arrive in urban areas. But response times for some rural West Berkshire areas were nearly three times longer than in other locations across the county, such as in Reading, where it was as low as four minutes and 40 seconds. But one run director at Newbury Parkrun said the ambulance service shouldnt be criticised. Ian Colcomb was overseeing the free, weekly 5K race last July when one of the participants suffered a cardiac arrest in the middle of Greenham Common. Mr Colcomb called the emergency services immediately and was impressed by both the speed and professionalism displayed by paramedics. Not only was he in the middle of Greenham Common, but the gates to the main entrance were blocked by parked cars, which meant the ambulance crew had to run with a stretcher over rugged terrain to the scene. Mr Colcomb said: It must have been 10 to 15 minutes by the time theambulance arrived. The gates were blocked, so the crew could not get on to the common, From my perspective, its easy to criticise, but we had an extreme case where the ambulance had to overcome hurdles the runner could have died. I could not fault them whatsoever. They were fantastic. Responding to the findings, Mark Ainsworth, director of operations at South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SCAS), said the trust is not measured against national response time targets on individual postcode areas which have been highlighted by the BBC. Mr Ainsworth added that SCAS uses a sophisticated forecasting model to dynamically deploy its resources across the area it serves geography to meet patients needs. Mr Ainsworth said: SCAS serves a very large and geographically diverse area and there will always be variances in average response times between different postcodes. The average response time in England in rural areas is 11:26 five of the seven SCAS rural Berkshire postcodes in the BBC FOI figures have an average response time below this. This suggests that despite the challenges of rural Berkshire, patients still receive a good, high-quality service from SCAS compared to some patients living in similar areas in other parts of the country. Making a revolutionary biosensor takes blood, sweat and tears. And saliva, naturally. University of Cincinnati professor Jason Heikenfeld examined the potential of these and other biofluids to test human health with tiny, portable sensors for the journal Nature Biotechnology. Heikenfeld develops wearable technology in his Novel Device Lab in UC's College of Engineering and Applied Science. His lab last year created the world's first continuous-testing device that samples sweat as effectively as blood but in a noninvasive way and over many hours. "Ultimately, technological advances in wearables are constrained by human biology itself," the study said. Remarkably, many of the innovations in the field of biosensors and sweat technology were developed in Cincinnati. The first glucose monitor for diabetes was commercialized in the region. The inventor of the the world's first antiperspirant, called Odorono, was a Cincinnati physician named Abraham Murphey. "We have such a strong history in this field here. It's really fascinating," Heikenfeld said. Heikenfeld credits the hard work of his team for his lab's success. "We have been able to go far and fast here," Heikenfeld said. "We resonate with a certain type of student. As much as we have brilliant faculty at UC, if we didn't have talented students here, this technology wouldn't exist. We would just be talking theoretically about the potential." In the Nature article, Heikenfeld identified four waves of discovery when it comes to testing human health. First, doctors began drawing and shipping blood to labs in an invasive, time-consuming and labor-intensive process that patients still undergo today. Starting around the 1980s researchers, including pioneering UC engineering professor Chong Ahn, developed point-of-care lab tests that allowed doctors to get immediate results. Instead of shipping samples to a lab, doctors could test samples themselves using tiny self-contained devices. "Dr. Ahn has been at the forefront of developing these point-of-care devices," Heikenfeld said. Now, Heikenfeld said, we're in the midst of a third wave -- continuous health monitoring with wearable devices like those developed at UC. These provide data over time so doctors can track health trends instead of relying on the snapshot that a single blood test provides. "That's super powerful because it tells me am I getting better? Am I getting worse?" Heikenfeld said. Eventually, the field will see devices implanted in the body for long-term diagnosis or monitoring, he said. But first researchers will have to create robust sensors that can provide accurate information over a much longer time frame. "That's the big challenge," Heikenfeld said. "Sensors are chemically reactive themselves. So they don't last." After examining the use of saliva, tears and interstitial fluid, Heikenfeld concluded in the Nature article that sweat holds the most promise for noninvasive testing because it provides similar information as blood and its secretion rate can be controlled and measured. In his Novel Device Lab at UC, Heikenfeld and his students have been creating new sensors on a wearable patch the size of a Band-Aid that stimulates sweat even when a patient is cool and resting. The sensor measures specific analytes over time that doctors can use to determine how the patient is responding to a drug treatment. The sensors can be tailored to measure anything from drugs to hormones to dehydration, Heikenfeld said. Last year the lab created the world's first continuous-monitoring sensor that can record the same health information in sweat that doctors for generations have examined in blood. The milestone is remarkable because the continuous sensor allows doctors to track health over time to see whether a patient is getting better or worse. And they can do so in a noninvasive way with a tiny patch applied to the skin that stimulates sweat for up to 24 hours at a time. "This is the Holy Grail. For the first time, we can show here's the blood data; here's the sweat data - and they work beautifully together," Heikenfeld said. Heikenfeld and his students published their latest experimental findings in December in the journal Lab on a Chip. UC's study tracked how test subjects metabolized ethanol. The study concluded that sweat provided virtually the same information as blood to measure a drug's presence in the body. The latest breakthrough at UC marked the culmination of more than seven years of research, he said. "For medications, we can use sweat to get an exact measurement of concentrations in the blood," Heikenfeld said. "That's important because once we can measure concentrations of therapeutics in blood, we can look at drug dosing. And that could make current dosing look like something from the Stone Age." Cincinnati is home to several companies that are turning technologies for drug prescribing, delivery and monitoring into commercial products. The list includes Assurex Health, Enable Injections and Heikenfeld's Eccrine Systems, where he is co-founder and chief science officer. Study co-author and computational biologist Tongli Zhang said devices like these will help doctors to provide personalized care. Zhang is an assistant professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology at the UC College of Medicine. "You don't give children the same drug dose as adults. Likewise, we can specify a dose based on a patient's weight," Zhang said. "But some patients might have liver or kidney failure. And others might metabolize a drug 10 times faster. So the same dose might be ineffective in some patients and toxic in others." Zhang said continuous sensors could change treatments in fundamental ways. "Personalized or individualized medicine is becoming a bigger deal. We realize it's important. If we can understand what's going on in the body, we can tailor the treatment accordingly," he said. UC is at the forefront of developing new biosensors that Heikenfeld thinks will revolutionize the way we track disease and wellness. "UC continues to build on our rich regional history in revolutionizing diagnostics through this third wave of continuous biochemical sensing," he said. George Perez opens up about his fans, his legendary career, and his terminal illness George Perez talks about the support he's received following the announcement of his illness GamesRadar+ is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more Sorry! This content is not available in your region New Delhi: Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections can take place ahead of the annual Amarnath Yatra that begins on July 1, news agency IANS quoted state government sources as saying. The general consensus is that the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections can be held with adequate security deployments before this years Amarnath Yatra which begins on July 1, the sources said. There has been a re-thinking on holding the state Assembly polls. The visit is taking place just five days after Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora announced that the Assembly polls would not be held along with the Lok Sabha polls scheduled in five phases in the state. Three special observers appointed by the EC arrived in Srinagar on Thursday to assess the ground situation for holding Assembly Elections. The National Conference (NC), however, decided not to meet the team. "In view of the EC visit to Srinagar on Thursday, the National Conference has decided not to meet the EC delegation," a party spokesman had said. "Our demand of having simultaneous assembly and Lok Sabha elections in the state at our earlier meetings with the EC team remains as it is. We have, therefore, nothing more to add," the spokesman said. Former chief minister and NC vice-president Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said the Modi government had "consciously disenfranchised" the people in Jammu and Kashmir by not holding the Assembly election on time. "Dear @narendramodi Sahib, it is good to see you appealing to famous people to increase voter turnout however at the same time your government has consciously disenfranchised people in J&K by not holding Assembly elections on time (sic)," Abdullah posted on Twitter. The sources stated that during a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik in New Delhi, it was decided that the security concerns of the state could be addressed after the voting ends on May 19. All political parties except Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have criticised the decision to delay the Assembly polls blaming the government for deliberately doing it as "it is enjoying power through bureaucracy in J&K," according to media reports. New Delhi: Nirav Modi, the prime accused in the $2 billion PNB fraud case, was given Gold Visa by the UK government for his stay in London. Living in a palatial 8-million-pound apartment, Nirav Modi has already started a new business called Diamond Holdings. The details, which have been reported by the Times of India on Saturday, show that the absconding diamantaire is not affected by any probe back home in India. According to the report, the Gold Visa, which was introduced by the UK government in 2008, allows a person to stay, set up business or study in the country for period of five years. The only prerequisite is that the candidate must give 2-million-pound investment commitment to the authorities. This means that for roughly Rs 18 crore (calculated on the current exchange rates), the man behind Indias biggest banking scam is living without any trouble in the UK. Earlier, dressed in ostrich leather jacket worth Rs 9 lakh, the absconding diamond merchant was spotted in London recently. A report last week said that that India had chance to arrest the PNB accused, but allegedly inaction on part of officials in Delhi meant that Modi was roaming free in the UK. According to an NDTV report, the UK officials had offered to arrest and extradite Modi to India. But no communication on part of Indian officials resulted in UK agencies putting the case on backburner. The report says that the Serious Fraud Office in London had contacted Indian officials first time in February, 2018. This was the time when Delhi was frantically trying to locate the diamantaire. In March, 2018, the UK had confirmed that Modi was in London. By August, 2018, two more alerts were sent to Indian officials. UK had appointed Barry Stancombeon this case. His team sough additional information to arrest Modi. Allegedly, there was no response from Indian side. The report says that by December, 2018, the UK officials stopped pursuing New Delhi for more papers on Modi. Meanwhile, back home, a special court on March 15 issued a non-bailable warrant against the wife of fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi. The warrant against Ami Modi was issued by Special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) Judge M S Azmi after he took cognisance of the supplementary chargesheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against Nirav Modi (48) and other accused a few days ago. The financial crime probe agency has alleged that Ami Modi used an international bank account to move $30 million, suspected to be proceeds of the scam. The funds were used to buy property located in New York's Central Park, the ED has said. For all the Latest Business News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Lucknow University has started the application process for admissions to undergraduate and postgraduate courses 2019. Candidates can visit the official website of the university i.e. lkouniv.ac.in to apply for their desired course. The detailed guidelines and admission procedure were uploaded on LU website on Thursday evening. Admission coordinator Anil Mishra said, ''The application process will be completed in six steps - registration, filling of personal details, qualification, uploading of scanned photograph, signature, preview and fee submission.'' Admissions to around 3,500 UG and 4,500 PG seats will be done through entrance tests. First time applicants are required to register first and then login to apply for UG or PG courses by entering the required details. Counselling for PG candidates will be done on LU campus followed by document verification and fee submission. On the other hand, the UG counselling for BA/BA (Hons) will be conducted by LU through online mode itself. This is for the first time that online counselling will be done for UG students. The entrance test for UG courses is scheduled to start from April 15 and will end on May 1. For the PG students, it will begin from May 8th and will end on May 15, 2019. New Delhi: In a major development ahead of Lok Sabha elections 2019, Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) general secretary Danish Ali, who until recently was involved in alliance negotiations with the Congress and the JD-S in Karnataka, on Saturday joined the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). Karnataka chief minister and senior JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy said Ali joined Mayawatias party after his and his father HD Deve Gowdaas consent. aDanish Ali, the JDS General Secretary, has joined BSP in consent with me and our national president Sri HD Devegowda in a purely political arrangement between the two parties. It is a thoughtful political decision taken by #JDS and BSP to win more seats in the Lok Sabha elections,a Kumaraswamy tweeted on Saturday evening. Danish Ali, the JDS General Secretary, has joined BSP in consent with me and our national president Sri HD Devegowda in a purely political arrangement between the two parties. It is a thoughtful political decision taken by #JDS and BSP to win more seats in the Loksabha elections. a H D Kumaraswamy (@hd_kumaraswamy) March 16, 2019 aMy ideology matches with Mayawatias ideology. We both strive to uplift the poor and weaker sections of the society. I now want to invest my energy for making the lives of the poor better,a Ali was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. Speaking to media after joining the BSP, Ali said he took the permission of former prime minister and JD-S leader Deve Gowda and will do whatever work is assigned to him by Mayawati. aI never asked for anything even when I was in JD(S), it was upto HD Deve Gowda ji to decide what work to assign me. I have come here after taking the blessings & permission of Deve Gowda ji. I will work wherever Behen ji assigns me,a news agency ANI quoted Ali as saying. Ali, who was born in Uttar Pradesh, said that despite all his efforts, he could not help the JD-S grow in his home state. Given the threat to the Constitution, he said, it became essential to use his energy with a strong leadership. aJD(S) doesn't have a large orga structure in UP. Despite all my efforts I could not have raised it in my 'janmabhoomi, my 'karmabhoomi'....The way in which there is a threat to constitution today, it has become essential to use our energy with a strong leadership,a he said. Danish Ali was a close associate of Kumaraswamy and he had played the crucial role in Congress-JD(S) alliance in Karnataka. He was also involved in the seat sharing negotiations between the parties for the Lok Sabha elections. Ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) leader Danish Ali joined the Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Saturday. Ali joined the party in the presence of the partyas national general secretary Satish Mishra at the BSP office in Lucknow. New Delhi: While the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is on a high with many senior Opposition leaders taking the saffron plunge, a Gujarat BJP leader Reshma Patel on Friday resigned from the party alleging that it has become a marketing company and its members have become salespersons. Patel announced that she would contest the upcoming elections to the Porbandar Lok Sabha seat and Manavadar Assembly constituency as an Independent if she is not offered any ticket from mainstream political parties. I am resigning from the BJP by writing this resignation letter to state president Jitu Vaghani. I have decided to relieve myself from BJP as the party uses its workers and leaders only for marketing its hollow schemes. I have also decided to contest the election from Porbandar Parliamentary constituency. I request the Opposition parties to come on one platform, clear their stand about the Porbandar seat. I also propose to fight the seat together. I appeal them to give an opportunity to a woman to contest the election so that the representation of women increases, Patel told reporters in Rajkot as reported by the Indian Express. She added, But if that does not happen, in that event, I will contest the Porbandar Parliamentary seat and Manavadar Assembly constituency as an Independent. Patel was once one of the leading members of the Hardik Patel-led quota agitation body- Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS). But she had joined the BJP ahead of the December 2017 Assembly polls, after accusing Hardik of being a "Congress agent" and trying to use the agitation to overthrow the present state government led by the BJP. Hardik recently joined the Congress. New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party BJP is likely to release its first list of candidates for the Lok Sabha elections on Saturday evening, according to reports. The BJP central election committee will meet in the evening to discuss candidates for seats from Bihar, western Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Karnataka and West Bengal. A total of 188 seats go to polls in the first two phases of polling to be held on April 11 and 18. With several leaders from the Congress and other Opposition parties taking the saffron plunge, the BJP is looking to expand its footprint in states such as Kerala and West Bengal this time around. An Economic Times report said that those people who have been denied tickets by the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party are in talks with the BJP leadership and some others are likely to join the party in the coming days. With the BJP closely accessing the developments in the Opposition camp, there has been a lot of activity in the BJP headquarters with ticket-seekers and their supporters queuing up to meet party president Amit Shah. Some of the sitting BJP MLAs from Uttar Pradesh are vying for a Lok Sabha ticket. Giridih MP Ravindra Pandey is miffed at BJP for giving the seat to ally AJSU and has been seeking an audience with Shah for the past few days. Some of the sitting BJP MPs from Bihar reportedly want to move to other seats to beat anti-incumbency but the party brass is not favourable to the idea. BJP has given five seats it won in 2014 to ally JDU Candidates from the five seats of Uttarakhand are also likely to be announced. Bhuvan Chandra Khanduri, who won Garhwal, is likely to be replaced due to his old age, the ET reported. His son Manish switched to Congress on Thursday. New Delhi: Manish Khanduri, son of former Chief Minister BC Khanduri, joined the Congress in presence of Rahul Gandhi in Dehradun on Saturday. I believe that under Rahul Gandhi's leadership, Congress will make country stronger. Before coming here, I sought blessings of my father. He asked me if I can walk on path of truth, I said, 'yes, Khanduri junior said during the rally. Prior to this, Gandhi spoke extensively about Manishs father. Khanduri ji was the Chairman of Parliament's Defence Committee. He was removed from the position by Narendra Modi, because he raised concerns in the Parliament on national security. There is no place for truth in BJP. Gandhi said. News Nation had reported on March 13 that Manish Khanduri will join Congress on March 16. We had reported that Khanduri junior had reached out to several BJP lawmakers in the state in a bid to solicit support for his crucial move. Manish Khanduri is known to be a close friend of Rahul Gandhi. It is yet not clear whether Manish Khanduri will quit his job at Facebook for his political career. At present, he is the 'Head of News Partnerships' at Facebook, India. A graduate of the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, Manish Khanduri helped CNNs digital properties (CNN.com and CNN Mobile) strategize and execute a number of growth initiatives including the launch of one of the first citizen reporting tools developed by a news media company. He has worked in leadership positions in the media industry in India and the United States in the online, mobile, television and print platforms. This move is seen as Congress' way of revamping its Brahmin game plane in the hill state. Khanduri Junior will not only bring the Brahmin votes to the party, it will also help Congress in appealing the elite class as well. Interestingly, BC Khanduris daughter Ritu Khanduri Bhushan had won on BJP ticket in 2017 Assembly Elections. Some sources say that Manish joining the Congress highlights the tussle within the family. When contacted, Ritu Khanduri Bhushan simply said, Bhaiya se poochungi. She neither confirmed nor denied the speculation over her brother joining the Congress. The Uttarakhand BJP tried to downplay the news. State party president Ajay Bhatt told News Nation that, Manish Khanduri was never a BJP member. As per the News Nation poll survey in the state, the BJP is projected to win 4 seats whereas the Congress may bag 1. The other parties may win one seat each in 2019 General Elections. As far as the vote share is concerned, the BJP is likely to get 42 per cent of vote share, the Congress may get 34 per cent of votes, and the other parties may get 7 per cent of vote share, predicted News Nation Opinion Poll. New Delhi: With 2019 Lok Sabha Elections just a few days away, the Election Commission (EC) on Saturday fixed a timeline for the release of manifestos by all the national and regional political parties in India. In order to maintain the sanctity ofA Section 126 of the Representation of the People (RP) Act, 1951, the manifestos for both single and multiphase elections, from this year onwards, cannot be released in the last 48 hours before polling in all phases. Section 126 of the RP Act embodies "election silence", which prohibits any form of the election campaign in the last 48 hours leading up to voting. "Manifestos for both single and multiphase elections shall not be released during the prohibitory period, as prescribed under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951," the Election Commission of India said in a statement. The provision will, henceforth, be applicable and implemented as a part of the Model Code of Conduct for all future elections, it added. Election Commission of India: The provision will, henceforth, be applicable and implemented as a part of the Model Code of Conduct for all future elections. #LokSabhaElections2019 https://t.co/hcaZcWOIqt a ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 Earlier, there was no stipulation on the timing of manifesto launch for political parties.A The reason behind restraining parties from releasing manifesto, sources said, is lack of consensus within the political parties on the issue. In early 2019, the commission reached out to all national and regional parties and sought their views on the proposal to revise the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), ensuring that manifestos are released at least 72 hours before voting ends in the first phase of elections.A While several parties were silent on the issue, the Congress had opposed the proposal. The proposed amendment a a new item to be inserted under Part VIII of MCC a reads, "If a party or candidate intends to release election manifesto in connection with any election, the same should be released latest by 72 hours prior to the hour fixed for conclusion of the poll for the election. In case of the multi-phase election, the release should be latest by 72 hours prior to the hour fixed for conclusion of the poll for the first phase. The manifesto should not be released after this cut-off time". In a relatedA note, the BJP had in 2014 released its Lok Sabha manifesto on the day of voting in the first phase. Although the Congress had complained to the EC, stating this would influence voters, the commission was unable to act since the MCC was silent on the timing of the manifesto's release. Talking about the seven-phase 2019 Lok Sabha elections, parties cannot release manifesto in the last 48 hours before each phase on April 11, 18, 23, 29, May 6, 12 and May 19. Mumbai: Days after sealing the seat-sharing deal in Maharashtra for upcoming Lok Sabha Elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena organised a joint party workers' meet. In the meet - at Amravati city of Vidharba, Maharashtra both the parties asked their workers to put the 4.5-year-long differences and misunderstanding behind and work together to win the maximum number of seats. Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, while addressing workers of both the parties - said that it was the right time to forget the ups and downs between the alliance partners in recent times both in mind and heart. We have joined hands to safeguard Hindutva and this won't be possible just by merely joining hands, or just taking the saffron flag in hand or by shouting slogans. We all need to forget the past differences and work together so that we win the 2019 general election. If Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was present today, he would have severely punished us by pushing all of us from a mountain cliff if we betrayed the alliance," Udhav Thackeray was quoted as saying by the Indian Today. BJP leader and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis echoed Thackerays sentiments. The countrys atmosphere is different now, on one side is development, but what is much more dear to BJP-Shiv Sena workers is India and nationalism, he said. Ruling allies BJP and Shiv Sena, whose relations have been strained for quite some time, has announced a tie-up for the coming Lok Sabha and Maharashtra Assembly elections. The BJP will contest 25 seats and Shiv Sena 23 of 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra. The two parties will contest an equal number of seats, along with their other allies, in elections for the 288-member state Assembly, due this year. New Delhi: Nargis Fakhri, who shot to fame with Imtiaz Alias Rockstar, has reportedly broken up with boyfriend Matt Alonzo. Apparently, she has deleted all the photos with him on social media. The actress has also reportedly opted for spirituality in order to deal with her current situation.A According to a report published in SpotboyE, Nargis has turned a Yoga freak to such an extent that she dedicates nearly 4 hours daily towards for just Yoga. She even traveled all the way to Dubai for the same. Her newfound love for spirituality comes right after her break-up which clearly indicates that sheas trying to heal a broken heartHer latest Instagram posts are filled with her yoga pictures. In fact, it also seems that Nargis is trying her hands in entrepreneurship. Sharing a picture on Instagram, Nargis wrote, ''Every day is an opportunity to work toward the life you want! It took countless hours, disappointments and stress to get to where I am, but I want you to know that working hard for what you want pays off! What are you working toward today? #bigdreams #keepdreaming #dreambig #workhard #liveharder #hustlehard #entreprenuer #feelempowered #bossbabe #powerofshe.aA Nargis and Matt had started dating in October 2017. The two had even gotten the initials of their names inked. When asked about the same, a source close to the couple had informed Mumbai Mirror, ''Nargis was really nervous about getting the tattoo, but Matt convinced her to go for it. The couple walked out of the parlour holding hands and happy that theyad taken another big step in their relationship.'' The source further shared, aNargis and Matt are very happy together.a For those who donat know, Nargis was earlier dating actor Uday Chopra but they eventually parted ways. Uday, had once reacted to the news reports and was quoted as saying, ''I normally donat respond to gossip, but the press has been reporting a lot of fiction disguised as fact. I would just like to clarify that Nargis and I have been and still are very close friends. The press has done a wonderful job of creating stories out of thin air and I applaud their creativity. However, these are all untrue.'' On the professional front, Nargis was last seen in Amavas opposite Sachiin Joshi which released in February 2019. For all the Latest Entertainment News, Bollywood News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Singapore: Actor Ralph Fiennes has revealed he initially planned to turn down playing Voldemort because he was not aware about the "Harry Potter" saga. The 56-year-old actor said he was ''ignorant'' about J K Rowling's wizarding franchise when he was first offered the role of the Dark Lord in second movie "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" in 2005. ''The truth is I was actually ignorant about the films and the books. I was approached by the production. Mike Newell was directing the film that they wanted me to be in... the first time Voldemort was going to appear physically. ''Out of ignorance I just sort of thought, this isn't for me... Quite stupidly I resisted, I was hesitant. I think the clincher was that my sister Martha - who has three children who were then probably about 12, 10 and 8 - she said, 'What do you mean? You've got to do it!' So then I rewound my thinking," Fiennes said during an appearance on the "The Jonathan Ross Show". For all the Latest Entertainment News, Bollywood News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: What does Sushant Singh Rajputs cryptic note on his Instagram bio, Not here right now mean? That is the question netizens want to know. The M. S. Dhoni: The Untold Story star, who is quite interactive with his fans on his social media posts have deleted the entire story and pictures he had posted on his Instagram account. With no news from the star himself, his 7.8 million followers are left wondering what is happening with the star. Is wont be until we hear back from him, we will get to know the details until then we wait. It is not new that celebs have taken a step back from the limelight for reasons of their own. One such celeb who stood back from social media is Meghan Markle, who deleted her Instagram account due to royal protocols. Sushant Singh Rajput was meanwhile seen in the film, Sonchiriya a film set in the 1970s in the backdrop of a small town named 'Chambal' in Madhya Pradesh, a drama that revolves around the intriguing and gripping tale of dacoits, who rule and dominate the region. Bhumi Pednekar, Manoj Bajpayee, Ranvir Shorey and Ashutosh Rana were also seen in the pivotal roles. For all the Latest Entertainment News, Bollywood News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The armies of India and Myanmar conducted a "coordinated operation" from February 17 to March 2 against insurgents in Myanmarese territory to avert a possible threat to the Kaladan multi-modal transit transport project, official sources said. However, the Indian Army did not cross the border during the operation, they said. The focus of the operation was to crack down on the members of the Arakan Army, an insurgent group in Myanmar, the sources said. The members of the Arakan Army had also moved close to the international border along Mizoram, they said. The sources added that during the operation, the Indian Army beefed up the security along the border from Nagaland and Manipur to ensure that the insurgents do not cross over to the Indian side. The Indian Army also helped the Myanmarese Army by providing them intelligence, they said. There were also inputs that some members of the Arakan Army were also planning to sneak into India. The sources said setting up of camps by the insurgent groups was being viewed as a grave concern by armies of the two countries. The operation was also undertaken keeping in view the safety of Indian workers engaged in the project. After a series of meetings between personnel from both the countries, it was decided to carry out the coordinated operation. Additional troops were moved to the international border areas, besides deploying the Assam Rifles personnel. The Assam Rifles has the responsibility to guard the international border with Myanmar. The Kaladan multi-modal transit transport project is being viewed as India's gateway to the Southeast Asia. India entered into a framework agreement with Myanmar in April 2008 to facilitate implementation of the project. On completion, the project will help connect Mizoram with the Sittwe Port in Rakhine State of Myanmar. On the Indian side, work is on to extend the Aizawl-Saiha National Highway by 90 km to the international border at Zorinpui. In 2015, the surgical strike inside Myanmar was carried out by a crack team of about 70 commandos of the Indian Army who finished the operation within 40 minutes, leaving 38 Naga insurgents dead and seven injured on June 10. The decision of hot pursuit was taken hours after the Naga militants killed 18 soldiers in an ambush in Chandel area of Manipur on June 4 and clearance was obtained from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the night of June 7, soon after his return from Bangladesh, said sources privy to the details. The commandos of 21 Para, equipped with assault rifles, rocket launchers, grenades and night vision goggles, were airdropped at around 3 am on June 10 from Dhruv helicopters, just inside the Indian territory near the border with Myanmar, security sources said. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Two armed Maoists were neutralised in an encounter with troops of 198 Battalion CRPF and the Andhra Pradesh police at Pedabayalu in the Visakhapatnam district earlier on Saturday morning. A CRPF personnel was injured. The encounter has concluded. A suspected Maoist was killed in a lengthy exchange of fire with police on March 7 near Vythiri in the Wayanad district of Kerala. A group of Maoists allegedly reached a private resort at night and demanded food for 10 members of the team and money, sources said. The resort staff informed police about the presence of the extremist group and a specialised Thunderbolt squad of the Kerala Police rushed in. One person was killed during the exchange of fire on Wednesday. No officer was injured in the firefight, a police official told PTI. Police have cordoned off the forested locality near Vythiri in Wayanad district and combing operation is underway to capture the rest of the members of the armed group. A high-level meeting of police and district officials has been convened by the Inspector General of Police, Kannur Range. Kerala Thunderbolts is an elite command force of the Kerala Police under the India Reserve Battalion. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Delhi's Patiala House court on Saturday directed the Tihar jail authorities to submit CCTV footage containing visuals from February 13 to 17 of cell number 7, where Christian Michel, an alleged 'middleman', was kept last month for questioning in connection with the multi-crore AgustaWestland VVIP choppers scam case. Special judge Arvind Kumar has asked for the CCTV recording in order to ascertain allegations of torture and humiliation levelled by Michel. The court has listed the matter for further hearing on March 19. On March 12, Michel had told the court that former CBI special director Rakesh Asthana had met him in Dubai and had threatened to "make his life hell inside the jail" if he did not toe the line of the agency. "Some time ago, Rakesh Asthana had met me in Dubai and had threatened that my life would be made hell in the jail and that is what is going on. My next door inmate is (gangster) Chhota Rajan.... I do not understand what crime I have committed to be put along with terrorists and those who have killed several people," he stated. However, the jail authorities had on March 14 denied the allegations of torture and said Michel was shifted to a high-risk prison considering threats to his life. The court had previously lashed out at the jail authorities for failing to justify the shifting of Michel to a high-security cell in isolation, saying it would order an inquiry if it did not get a proper response. However, after going through the CCTV footage of jail number 1, where Michel was lodged earlier, the court had noted that the premises were clean and that good facility was provided to Michel. Michel, 57, who is a citizen of the United Kingdom, was brought to India on December last year, following his extradition by the UAE in connection with the Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestland VVIP choppers scam case. Michel is among the three alleged middlemen being probed in the Rs 3,600-crore VVIP choppers scam by the ED and the CBI. The other two are Guido Haschke and Carlo Gerosa. What is AgustaWestland VVIP choppers scam? In February 2010, the then Congress-led UPA government had signed a contract with AgustaWestland - the British arm of Italian firm Finmeccanica to buy 12 AW101 helicopters to ferry VVIPs, including the President of India, the Prime Minister and other important persons. Controversies surrounded the deal following allegations that Finmeccanica paid a huge amount of money to several officials and politicians to win the VVIP choppers deal with the Indian Air Force. There were also reports that some of the technical specifications of the helicopters were changed to help AgustaWestland bag the deal. The service ceiling of the helicopter was lowered to 4,500 m from 6,000 m. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had alleged that the deal signed with the AgustaWestland on February 8, 2010, to purchase 12 VVIP helicopters had cost the taxpayers a loss of approximately Rs 2,666 crore. By June 2014, the Indian government recovered the total amount of Rs 2,068 crore including the 45 per cent of the contract value paid to AgustaWestland. The development came nearly a year after then defence minister AK Antony in 2013 confirmed corruption allegations in the multi-crore VVIP choppers deal. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Farhaj Ahsan, Indian-origin man injured in the Christchurch terror attacks in New Zealand, has succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment in a hospital, said his family residing in Hyderabad said on Saturday, according to news agency ANI. Mohammed Sayeeduddin, the father of Farhaj Ahsan, has earlier said: aMy son went to the mosque to offer Friday prayers. My son has not returned yet. About 17 people are still missing. I request government to find about the whereabouts and well-being of my son.a At least 49 worshippers were killed in attacks on the Al Noor Mosque in central Christchurch and the Linwood Mosque in the city's outer suburb, in what appeared to be the worst attack on Muslims in a western country. Khursheed Jahangir, brother of Ahmed Iqbal Jahangir, said his brother was injured during the attack and is currently undergoing treatment at a local hospital in Christchurch. "He is injured. He is recovering in a hospital now. The latest information we received is that he is undergoing a surgery. We have seen the video. He has been shot in the chest and we are trying to reach Indian embassy people and local helpline numbers," Khursheed Jahangir said. He said he spoke to AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi for help in reaching out to authorities for a visa and other formalities to go to New Zealand to see his brother. Khursheed Jahangir said he has visited New Zealand twice and described it as one of the "safest" places in the world. Asaduddin Owaisi tweeted requesting External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and the Telangana Governments help to enable the family to go to New Zealand. "I request @KTRTRS @TelanganaCMO @MEAIndia @SushmaSwaraj to make necessary arrangements for the Khursheed family," Owaisi said in a tweet. "These are Mr.Khursheed's passport details. His brother is serious and his family has little support. I'm only requesting the immediate support of your good offices in expediting his visa process. Hell make all arrangements to travel to NZ by himself," Owaisi said in another tweet. Reacting to Owaisis request, TRS working President and former minister KT Rama Rao tweeted "Asad Saab, Will request our NRI department to assist." Owaisi, in another tweet, said "Farhaj Ahsan, a person of Indian origin, was also reported to have gone to the same mosque and is currently missing. His family is in Hyderabad, I request immediate assistance to his family as well. His familys contact details are available with me & Ill share the same with you." Farhaj Ahsan, a person of Indian origin, was also reported to have gone to the same mosque and is currently missing. His family in Hyderabad, I request immediate assistance to his family as well. His familyas contact details are available with me & Iall share the same with you. pic.twitter.com/KYwBcs2yTM a Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) March 15, 2019 Suresh Kumar, a family friend of Ahmed Iqbal, said in a video footage they could see images of Iqbal, who runs a restaurant in New Zealand, at a mosque when the attack took place. "Since then we (Iqbal's family in Hyderabad) have been trying to reach him. We could not reach him over phone. His wife is in a state of shock. We have sought the state governments help to send one of the family members to New Zealand," Kumar said. According to Suresh, Ahmed Iqbal has been living in New Zealand for over a decade and settled there. He has two children and is said to have permanent residency of that country. The gunman at one mosque was an Australian-born citizen, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said in Sydney, describing him as "an extremist, right-wing, violent terrorist". (With PTI inputs) For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Musa Wali Suleman Patel, Indian resident from Gujarat who was injured in the Christchurch terror attacks in New Zealand, has died while undergoing treatment in a hospital, said his brother Haji Ali Patel. At least 49 worshippers were killed in attacks on the Al Noor Mosque in central Christchurch and the Linwood Mosque in the city's outer suburb, in what appeared to be the worst attack on Muslims in a western country. My brother and sister-in-law are not able to contact. They are not informing her anything. My brother is in a critical condition. I urge the Central government, PM Modi, Sushma Swaraj and the Gujarat CM to help them reunite, Haji Ali Patel had earlier said. "It is currently 24 hours but hospital administration or New Zealand government is not giving any answer. I have been trying to contact my sister-in-law but there is no response," he had said. The confirmation of his death came even as Farhaj Ahsan, Indian-origin man injured in the Christchurch terror attacks, has succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment at a hospital, said his family residing in Hyderabad said on Saturday. Mohammed Sayeeduddin, the father of Farhaj Ahsan, has earlier said: My son went to the mosque to offer Friday prayers. My son has not returned yet. About 17 people are still missing. I request government to find about the whereabouts and well-being of my son. Besides, Suresh Kumar, a family friend of Ahmed Iqbal, said in a video footage they could see images of Iqbal, who runs a restaurant in New Zealand, at a mosque when the attack took place. "Since then we (Iqbal's family in Hyderabad) have been trying to reach him. We could not reach him over phone. His wife is in a state of shock. We have sought the state governments help to send one of the family members to New Zealand," Kumar said. According to Suresh, Ahmed Iqbal has been living in New Zealand for over a decade and settled there. He has two children and is said to have permanent residency of that country. The gunman at one mosque was an Australian-born citizen, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said in Sydney, describing him as "an extremist, right-wing, violent terrorist". For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: At least three Indians are reportedly among the 49 people killed in the Christchurch terror attacks, claimed their families. Mohammad Farhaj Ahsan, Musa Wali Suleman Patel and Anshi Karippakulam have been identified so far. "Death of Anshi Karippakulam (27) has been confirmed and her family has been intimated," a top police official told news agency PTI. At least 49 worshippers were killed on Friday in attacks on the Al Noor Mosque in central Christchurch and the Linwood Mosque in the city's outer suburb, in what appeared to be the worst attack on Muslims in a western country. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in a Facebook post termed the incident as shocking, the news that a Kodungallur native was among those who were killed in the terror attack in New Zealand. "We have been trying to contact the embassy through Non-Resident Keralites Affairs Department (NORKA-ROOTS) to gather more information. We share the grief of the family," Vijayan said. According to reports, the woman was pursuing her MTech at a university there. Her husband Abdul Nazer hails from Kochi. Television channels also aired a visual of a man purportedly saying he was from Moovattupuzha in the State and that he had a narrow escape. "I had come to the mosque along with a friend. I had a phone call and suddenly heard gun shots and saw a man shooting people and entering the mosque," the man is heard saying in the footage. He also said he and his friend had a "narrow and lucky escape." The gunman at one mosque was an Australian-born citizen, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said in Sydney, describing him as "an extremist, right-wing, violent terrorist". Approximately 200,000 Indian and Indian-origin people live in New Zealand. There are over 30,000 Indian students in the country, according to the Indian High Commission's data on its website. Besides Karippakulam, Musa Wali Suleman Patel, Indian citizen from Gujarat, has died in the attack, said his brother Haji Ali Patel. My brother and sister-in-law are not able to contact. They are not informing her anything. My brother is in a critical condition. I urge the Central government, PM Modi, Sushma Swaraj and the Gujarat CM to help them reunite, Haji Ali Patel had earlier said. "It is currently 24 hours but hospital administration or New Zealand government is not giving any answer. I have been trying to contact my sister-in-law but there is no response," he had said. The confirmation of his death came even as Farhaj Ahsan, Indian-origin man, succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment at a hospital, said his family residing in Hyderabad said on Saturday. Mohammed Sayeeduddin, the father of Farhaj Ahsan, has earlier said: My son went to the mosque to offer Friday prayers. My son has not returned yet. About 17 people are still missing. I request government to find about the whereabouts and well-being of my son. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: In a surprising development ahead of Lok Sabha elections, Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) General Secretary Danish Ali, who until recently was involved in alliance negotiations with the Congress and the JD-S in Karnataka, on Saturday joined the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). Speaking to media after joining the BSP, Ali said that he took the permission of former prime minister and JD-S leader Deve Gowda and will do whatever work is assigned to him by Mayawati. I never asked for anything even when I was in JD(S), it was upto HD Deve Gowda ji to decide what work to assign me. I have come here after taking the blessings & permission of Deve Gowda ji. I will work wherever Behen ji assigns me, news agency ANI quoted Ali as saying. Ali, who was born in Uttar Pradesh, said that despite all his efforts, he could not help the JD-S grow in his home state. Given the threat to the Constitution, he said, it became essential to use his energy with a strong leadership. JD(S) doesn't have a large orga structure in UP. Despite all my efforts I could not have raised it in my 'janmabhoomi, my 'karmabhoomi'....The way in which there is a threat to constitution today, it has become essential to use our energy with a strong leadership, he said. Danish Ali was a close associate of Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy and he had played the crucial role in Congress-JD(S) alliance in Karnataka. He was also involved in the seat sharing negotiations between the parties for the Lok Sabha elections. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Three days after the setback in the United Nations, India remains cautiously confident that Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar will be declared as a global terrorist. According to government sources that were quoted by news agency ANI, India will show patience as long as it takes, we are cautiously optimistic that Masood Azhar will be listed. There are issues China has to resolve with Pak. India has strong support of 14 members China also knows terrorism is a challenge, they know it operates from Pakistan. India will show patience. Pakistan is spending diplomatic capital in defending indefensible. Its action is cosmetic. US is supportive of India & has assured that Pakistan will take action, the source added. New Delhi also raised the issue on Pakistans false narrative. India raised concerns with US on arms used. US took note and also appreciated India for sharing its position in real time. There are no takers in US to take Pakistan's narrative that India is posing threat, the source said. The sources also talked about Pakistan handing over most wanted men such as Dawood Ibrahim and Sayeed Salahudeen. India knows there are number of Indians in Pakistan. Pak can hand over Indians that are in India's wanted list and international terror list-Dawood Ibrahim and Sayeed Salahudeen. Very specific details were shared, if Pak thinks India can't verify, it can get international verification, the government sources said. Meanwhile, backchannel diplomacy is also working to ensure Masood Azhars terror tag. The US, France and the UK are believed to be in intense "good faith" discussions with China to arrive at a "compromise", including on the language on the UN designation of Azhar as a global terrorist, according to people familiar with the matter. On Wednesday, China blocked for the fourth consecutive time a resolution at the UN Security Council Committee on designating Azhar, head of the JeM terror group, as a global terrorist. The proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council was moved by France, the UK and the US on February 27, days after a suicide bomber of the JeM killed 44 CRPF soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, leading to a flare-up in tensions between India and Pakistan. If the fresh efforts by the US, France and the UK does not end up in the formal designation of Azhar, the three permanent members are planning to soon move a resolution for his listing in the most powerful wing of the UN which would be preceded by an open debate on the issue, according to people familiar with the matter. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Pakistani troops on Saturday resorted to unprovoked firing by violating ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Mankote sector of Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district. The gunfight was still underway when the last reports came in and the Indian Army is retaliating strongly and effectively to the heavy mortar shelling, initiated by Pakistan at about 1:30 pm today. "Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violated ceasefire at around 1:30 pm in Mankote sector, Poonch district. Indian Army retaliating," the news agency ANI reported. Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan violated ceasefire at around 1:30 pm in Mankote sector, Poonch district. Indian Army retaliating. ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 However, no casualty has been reported from either side in the cross-border firing till the time. There has been a spurt in ceasefire violations by Pakistan after India's preemptive air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Balakot on February 26 following the February 14 Pulwama terror attack in which 42 CRPF personnel were killed. Read | SPO Khushboo Jan shot dead by terrorists outside her house in J-K's Shopian Four civilians, including three members of a family, were killed and several others injured as Pakistan targeted over 80 villages in more than 100 incidents of ceasefire violations along the LoC in the state since then. The frequent ceasefire violations have caused panic among the border residents, forcing authorities to close down educational institutions within five km radius from the zero lines in the twin districts of Poonch and Rajouri as a precautionary measure. However, most schools reopened a few days back after the intensity of the cross-border firing decreased. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Puneet Gupta, son-in-law of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister and BJP vice president Raman Singh, was on Friday charged for Rs 50 crore fraud, police said. Gupta has allegedly committed financial irregularities worth Rs 50 crore during his tenure as the superintendent of a state-run DKS hospital in Raipur. Raipur Additional Superintendent of Police Prafull Thakur told news agency PTI that the son-in-law of the former Chhattisgarh CM was charged for forgery and cheating following a complaint by incumbent superintendent of DKS Hospital, Kamal Kishore Sahare. In his complaint, Sahare alleged that the BJP leaders son-in-law committed financial irregularities during his tenure and caused massive loss to the state exchequer. The Raipur ASP said that the state government had received multiple complaints about illegal appointments in the hospital. The government constituted a committee to probe the allegations. The committee found that Gupta had misused his position and committed fraud of Rs 50 crore. Gupta was booked under section 409 (criminal breach of trust by public servant), 420 (cheating), 467 (forgery of valuable security), 468 (forgery for purpose of cheating) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code. Thakur said that a further investigation in the case was still on and other accused, whose names were not mentioned in the complaint, are also part of the probe. In February, Gupta had resigned from the service after a case was registered against him for alleged fixing of the Antagarh assembly bypoll held in 2014 during Raman Singhs government. The case against the son-in-law of the top BJP leader has come as a big embarrassment for the saffron party, which accuses Robert Vadra, son-in-law of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, of corruption and scam. (With inputs from agencies.) For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: In yet another awful terror attack, a lady Special Police Officer (SPO) was shot dead by suspected terrorists at the Vehil area of south Kashmir's Shopian district on Saturday. The SPO, identified as Khushboo Jan, was fired upon by unidentified gunmen from close range around 2:40 pm at her Shopian residence. Immediately after the incident, Jan was evacuated to a hospital where she succumbed to her injuries. Meanwhile, a joint team of Army, Special Operation Group of Police and CRPF cordoned off the area and launched a search operation to nab the assailants. Denouncing the gruesome terror attack in the heart of Kashmir Valley, the Jammu and Kashmir police said, "Terrorists today fired on a policewoman Khushboo Jan at her village in Vehil area of Shopian district. She sustained critical injuries and was evacuated to a hospital where she succumbed. We condemn this gruesome terror act and stand by her family at this critical juncture". Read | Pakistan violates ceasefire in Mankote sector of Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch "Separately, police have registered a case and initiated an investigation in the matter," they added. Jammu and Kashmir police: Separately, police has registered a case and initiated investigation in the matter https://t.co/Hf3GKTuuQw ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 The development comes barely hours after Pakistan violated ceasefire yet again in the Mankote sector of Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district this afternoon. Pakistan troops used heavy artillery to hit areas in Mankote sector of the district, prompting the Indian Army to retaliate strongly. However, no casualty has bee reported from either side in the cross-border firing till the time. The India-Pakistan border skirmishes witnessed a sudden spurt following India's preemptive air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Balakot on February 26 to avenge the February 14 Pulwama terror attack, which left 42 CRPF personnel dead and dozens of others injured. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: ISRO will launch the PSLV-C45 on April 1, putting 30 satellites, including one for electronic intelligence, in three different orbits. Till now, ISRO has been either two strap-on or six strap-on configurations for the mission or it was without strap-on. Earlier, the launch was scheduled on March 21. The delay was based on internal system readiness and other technical factors. This PSLV-C45 is the first three-orbit mission of ISRO and the first to use solar panel in rocket fourth stage (PS4). Aim is to ensure system readiness for a perfect launch, so the delay. Now the launch is set for April 1, TOI quoted K Sivan said. Second moon mission Chandrayaan-2 on board GSLV-MK III rocket is planned for launch by April end, he said. The PSLV C45 rocket will carry primary payloads like EMISAT and bluewalker1 and secondary payloads like M6P, Lemur-2 X1 to Lemur-2 X4 out of a total of thirty satellites. The PSLV C-45 rocket had four stages; each one was self-contained, with its own propulsion system, thereby capable of functioning independently. The first and third stages used composite solid propellants, while the third stage used earth-storable liquid propellant and fourth one fitted with Solar Panels. ISRO is planning to launch India's second moon mission Chandrayaan-2 by April end. ISRO is launching Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), which is scheduled to launch two 'strategic purpose' satellites in July-August this year. "SSLV is a small satellite launcher. The first launch will take place in July-August where two small satellites will be launched. They are for a strategic purpose and will be used for monitoring and mapping," he said. "Very soon we are going to make PSLVs from industry for which L and T and HAL have formed a consortium. Along with that small satellite launch vehicles will also be made by the industry," Sivan added. On February, 19 the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi had given its approval to the setting up of a new company under Department of Space (DoS) to commercially exploit the research and development work carried out by ISRO. For all the Latest Science News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The New Zealand police on Saturday produced the Christchruch shooter, who filmed himself rampaging through two city mosques killing 49 worshippers, in the court. Wearing handcuffs and a white prison shirt, 28-year-old Brenton Tarrant, an Australian right wing extremist, appeared in the dock sitting impassively as the judge read out single murder charge against him. Tarrant, the former fitness instructor and self-professed fascist smirked and made white power gesture as media persons present in the court room clicked photographs during the brief hearing that was held behind closed doors for security reasons. He did not request bail and was taken into custody until the next hearing on April 5. As many as 49 people were killed and 42 others, including a four-year-old child, sustained serious injuries after in the mass shooting at two Christchurch mosques - the Al Noor Mosque and the Linwood Masjid Mosque. The gunman live streamed the horrific attack as he shot victims at Al Noor Mosque and wrote a 37-page manifesto about his intentions. "it is a terrorist attack," the shooter had said in the live video while he continued firing indiscriminately at people inside the Al Noor Mosque. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern described the spree killing as a terrorist attack and said the shooterwho was not on any watchlist and did not have a criminal recordhad legally purchased the two semi-automatic weapons, two shotguns and lever-action gun he used. "While work is being done as to the chain of events that led to both the holding of this gun licence, and the possession of these weapons, I can tell you one thing right nowour gun laws will change, she vowed. The suspect documented his radicalisation and two years of preparations in a lengthy, meandering and conspiracy filled far-right manifesto. He live-streamed footage of himself going room-to-room, victim to victim, shooting the wounded from close range as they struggled to crawl away in the main Christchurch mosque. Two other people remain in custody, although their link to the attack is unknown. A third person who was earlier arrested was said to be a member of the public with a firearm who was trying to help. Two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were found in a car and neutralised by the military, while police raided a home in Dunedin, where Ardern said the suspect was based. Tributes to the victims poured in from around the world. US President Donald Trump condemned the horrible massacre in which innocent people have so senselessly died, but denied that the problem of right-wing extremism was widespread. Speaking in Sydney, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison described the gunman as an extremist, right-wing, violent terrorist. The shooters two targets were the Masjid al Noor mosque, where 41 people were killed, and a second, smaller mosque in the suburb of Linwood, where seven more died. The remaining victim succumbed in hospital. (With agency inputs) For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Harare: Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi have been hit by a vicious cyclone that has killed nearly 150 people, left hundreds more missing and stranded tens of thousands who are cut off from roads and telephones in mainly poor, rural areas. Cyclone Idai has affected more than 1.5 million people in the three southern African countries, according to the UN and government officials. Hardest hit is Mozambiques central port city of Beira where the airport is closed, electricity is out and many homes have been destroyed. The storm hit Beira late Thursday and moved westward into Zimbabwe and Malawi, affecting thousands more, particularly in eastern areas bordering Mozambique. Homes, schools, businesses, hospitals and police stations have been destroyed by the cyclone. Thousands were marooned by the heavy flooding and, only caring for their lives, abandoned their possessions to seek safety on higher ground. UN agencies and the Red Cross are helping with rescue efforts that include delivering food supplies and medicines by helicopter in the impoverished southern African countries. Mozambiques President Filipe Nyusi said the damage is very worrisome and said that the flooding made it difficult for aircraft to land and carry out rescue operations, according to Mozambiques state radio. In Zimbabwe, 31 people have died from the floods so far, according to the government. The deaths are mainly in Zimbabwes Chimanimani, a mountainous area along the eastern border with Mozambique that is popular with tourists. No tourist deaths were recorded, said government spokesman Nick Mangwana. Also Read | 49 killed in Christchurch mosques shooting, forces in process of disabling IEDs Roads and bridges were swept away, slowing rescue efforts by the military, government agencies and non-governmental organizations, he said. The dead included two school students who were among dozens of children trapped in a dormitory after rocks fell from a nearby mountain, said Mangwana. Zimbabwes military is trying to rescue the 197 students at the school, although unsafe conditions are forcing the soldiers to use ground efforts rather than attempt an air rescue, the governments ministry of information said later. Zimbabwe state television station, ZBC, reported that 150 people are missing. We are receiving tragic reports of some people being swept away. We urge patience as rescue is on its way, Zimbabwes information ministry said in a tweet, although power cuts and communications breakdown in affected areas means the warning might reach just a few. In Malawi, people are now facing a second threat of flash floods following the cyclone, said the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies on Twitter. South Africas military has sent in aircraft and 10 medical personnel to help in Mozambique and Malawi, it said in a statement on Saturday. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The recent India-Pakistan conflict arose due to terrorists that departed from Pakistan, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Friday, asking Islamabad to stop "harbouring" terrorists. He was referring to the recent escalation in tensions between the two nuclear states following the deadly Pulwama attack. On February 14, at least 42 CRPF personnel were killed in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district when a Jaish suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 30 kg of explosives into their bus in Pulwama district that also left many critically wounded. More than 2,500 Central Reserve Police Force personnel, many of them returning from leave to rejoin duty in the Valley, were travelling in the convoy of 78 vehicles when they were ambushed on the Srinagar-Jammu highway at Latoomode in Awantipora in south Kashmir. "We saw what happened with India, the conflict that arose there as a result of terrorists that departed from Pakistan. We need the Pakistanis to step up. They need to stop harbouring terrorists," Pompeo told Fox and Friends in an interview. He said the Trump administration has taken action against Pakistan that no other previous governments have taken. However, he said, "We need Pakistan to do more. They have to stop harbouring these terrorists." Earlier, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had assured the world that Pakistani soil will not be used for carrying out terrorist strikes in other countries. Addressing a public a rally at Chachro in southern Sindh province near border, Khan accused his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi of resorting to the "politics of hatred" and beating war drums just to win the coming Lok Sabha elections scheduled to be held in May this year. "The politics of hatred, dividing people for votes, is easy politics. This is the politics of Narendra Modi. Divide humans, spread hatred and when a leader starts this, the workers under him do what we saw happened to the Kashmiris in India after Pulwama," Khan said referring to a series of attacks on Kashmiris across the country. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Education Minister Dr Majid Al Nuaimi held a meeting with United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Assistant Director General for Education Stefania Gianini and Higher Education Section Chief Dr Peter Wells and discussed joint co-operation. The meeting was on the sidelines of the presentation of the UNESCO-King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa Prize for the Use of ICT in Education to the winners at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France. The meeting was also attended by Bahrain Deputy Permanent Representative to the UNESCO, Cultural Attache in Paris Ahaikha Wafa Al Khalifa. The minister shed light on the Al Hedaya Al Khaliya University project, being established in partnership between the public and private sectors, stressing the ministrys need for the UNESCO expertise to promote world-standard academic programmes. UNESCO Assistant Director General for Education Stefania Gianini reiterated support to Bahrain in various areas, hailing the Kingdoms efforts, particularly the Al Hedaya Al Khaliya University project. The Lower Criminal Court yesterday ordered to renew the detention of a court employee and his sister (a lawyer), who are accused of accepting BD50,000 in bribe, for 15 days pending further investigations. The courts order came as per the request submitted by the Public Prosecution in the presence of both defendants during their trial yesterday. Tribune reported earlier that the defendants allegedly received the bribe to facilitate a convicts release from jail. Their arrest came after a tip-off was received by the Anti-corruption and Economic and Electronic Security Directorate in Interior Ministry, which confirmed that both defendants were caught redhanded while receiving an advance payment of the bribe. Sources also confirmed that the employee at the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments had been recently promoted to the post of an acting supervisor at the Civil Court and that he oddly disappeared on the day of his arrest. Number element 50,000 Bahraini dinars were allegedly received by the court staff in bribe. The National US-Arab Chamber of Commerce (NUSACC), in partnership with the Embassy of the Kingdom to the United States of America, hosted an Expert Roundtable on financial technology (FinTech) opportunities in Bahrain. Amongst the speakers were, the Ambassador of the Kingdom to the United States of America, Shaikh Abdulla bin Rashid Al Khalifa and the Chairman of FinTech Consortium Bahrain and Board Member of Bahrain FinTech Bay, Maissan Almaskati. The Bahraini Ambassador affirmed in his remarks that Bahrains role in shaping the regions financial industry has been 40 years in the making. He also noted that the Kingdoms early endeavoirs in reforming an oil-dependent economy to become a regional financial hub shows that Bahrains forward-thinking policies and regulatory expertise resulted in more licensed financial institutions and registered funds than anywhere else in the region. He also illustrated how the Government of Bahrain has made economic diversification the cornerstone of its Vision 2030 goals, with SMEs expected to play a significant role. He added that the future of the financial industry revolves around FinTech innovation, and Bahrain is at the forefront of providing an ideal environment for a healthy FinTech ecosystem. The Bahraini Ambassador noted that while the Kingdom is progressive in supporting public and private sector funding to drive FinTech development, it still maintains strong regulatory and oversight standards. The Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) has created a regulatory sandbox that provides a secure,virtual space that allows FinTech companies to test and develop digital banking products. In this spirit, the CBB announced on February 25 the most comprehensive crypto-currency regulations in the Middle East. For his part, Mr Almaskati said the strong regulatory framework is essential for Bahrain to compete around the world, adding that the Bahrain Fintech Bay is considered a partnership platform that involves every financial institution and technology firm that operates in the country, as well as government stakeholders. NUSACCs President and CEO, David Hamod affirmed that the Kingdom has been a strategic crossroads for a very long time, and steps that the Kingdom has been making in recent years are unparalleled in their sophistication. In this regard, the US Census Bureau just announced that American goods exports to Bahrain rose 126.75 percent from 2017 to 2018, from $898.16 million to $2.037 billion. This is the largest single-year increase among all Arab nations (with the exception of war-torn Syria, to which US exports grew 627 per cent from 2017 to 2018). The Associate Director of the FinTech Program at the Milken Institute, Jackson Mueller, noted that Bahrain has taken a number of steps in recent years to bolster its position in financial technology, where the Kingdom has made has made a concerted effort to become the leading FinTech hub in the region. He also added that the Central Bank is actively engaged in offering policies that foster a conducive ecosystem, one that supports both international and domestic FinTech companies. In the Bahraini Ambassadors closing remarks, he affirmed that there is no shortage of reasons why business investors should choose Bahrain as a FinTech destination, as the Kingdoms continued development of the FinTech sector provides an opportunity for our country to strengthen its wider financial services by capitalising on our solid banking foundations. A force from Kuwaits National Guard arrived here yesterday to take part in the joint drill, Taawun 4 (Cooperation 4), to be carried out by Bahrains National Guard between March 15 and 21. The Kuwaiti forces participation in the joint exercise is in line with the protocol signed between the National Guards in the two countries. The joint drill aims to strengthen joint military coordination, increase the exchange of military expertise, particularly regarding counter-terrorism, and enhance the combat readiness of the forces of the two brotherly countries national guards. British MPs signalled their opposition yesterday to leaving the EU with no deal on March 29, in another blow to Prime Minister Theresa Mays authority which opens the door to Britain requesting a Brexit delay. The decision by parliaments lower House of Commons is largely symbolic as Britain is still on course to leave the EU in just over two weeks unless it can decide a new plan in agreement with Brussels. Business leaders have warned that Britain is staring down the precipice as it faces the possibility of severing 46 years of UK-EU ties overnight, with the risk of an economic shock on both sides of the Channel. And the manner in which MPs voted demonstrated once against the chaos in parliament over Brexit, and the lack of control that May has over events. She had offered MPs a vote on a no deal option after they rejected for a second time on Tuesday the divorce terms she negotiated with the EU over many months. Her proposal made clear that no deal was still the default option, but lawmakers decided instead to back an amendment rejecting no deal in all circumstances. Yesterdays moves open the way for MPs to vote on Thursday on whether to ask the EU for a delay to Brexit -- but Brussels has warned London must explain what it wants. Why would we prolong the negotiation? To do what? EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier told the European Parliament in Strasbourg ahead of the vote in London. May, her voice still hoarse, had warned MPs there were hard choices about what would come next. You can only take no deal off the table by doing one of two things: either revoke Article 50 (the Brexit process), which means betraying the vote of the referendum, or agree a deal, she said. But her personal failure yesterday, when the rebel no deal amendment passed by 312 votes to 308, reveals how much her authority has suffered. Stop this circus The pound took a brief knock after MPs rejected Mays divorce deal for a second time on Tuesday, but rallied on hopes that MPs would now vote for a delay. Catherine McGuinness, policy chief for the City of London financial district, said British business was now staring down the precipice. Carolyn Fairbairn, director-general of Britains biggest employers organisation, the CBI, called for parliament to stop this circus, saying: A new approach is needed by all parties. The government is expected to propose a short, limited postponement on Thursday, but is expecting a slew of amendments that could chart a path forward. One of the things I think is important, is that we as quickly as we possibly can, find consensus, Environment Secretary Michael Gove, a leading Brexit supporter in Mays cabinet, told parliament before the vote. A group of Conservative MPs on Wednesday proposed asking the EU to delay Brexit until May 22 and strike a series of interim agreements with the bloc lasting until 2021. May said this was not realistic, and it was defeated by 374 votes to 164. Finance minister Philip Hammond, who favours a close economic relationship with the EU, earlier seemed to indicate a new plan might be afoot. We will have the opportunity to start to map out a way forward towards building a consensus across this House for a deal we can collectively support, to exit the EU in an orderly way, he said. However, Mays spokesman rejected any suggestion she might back a new customs union with the EU -- Labours plan. In Berlin, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said: Achieving an orderly exit together, and I particularly want to repeat this today, remains in our mutual interest. French President Emmanuel Macron also warned again that the deal on the table was not negotiable. We cannot renegotiate an accord that we negotiated over several months and which we have said is not renegotiable, he said. As Brexit day looms large, Britain and the EU are stepping up preparations for the potential catastrophic disruption caused by a no deal divorce. Mays government announced plans to scrap tariffs on 87 percent of imports and stop applying customs checks on the border with Ireland in the event of no deal. The Sandy Hook families won a victory in the state Supreme Court that gives them a day in trial court, perhaps. But the barriers to an ultimate win over Remington, the historic gunmaker, are steep and many, with legal and financial issues as a roadblock. The Supreme Courts narrow, 4-3 ruling Thursday said the case against Remington over the 2012 shooting at Sandy Hook can go to a trial in state court. It establishes legal precedent for both the federal law that protects firearms makers from liability, and the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act that dates back to 1973. And it puts the victims families in a position where they may be able to try to prove a connection between Remingtons marketing for its Bushmaster AR-15 rifle and the horrific act of violence by a disturbed 20-year-old. The state Supreme Court said they can try; making the connection, lawyers and experts say, is a steep challenge. It is a Herculean task, said Victor E. Schwartz, co-chairman of the public policy practice in the Washington, D.C. office of the law firm Shook, Hardy & Bacon quoting from the Supreme Courts majority opinion. Schwartz, co-author of the best-selling textbook on tort law, in print since 1976, said, There is absolutely not a scintilla of evidence that would show if the actions taken by the wrongdoer were influenced by the advertising. The Supreme Court decision didnt rule on whether such evidence exists; only that the families, under state and federal laws, have a right to try to show it. When the plaintiffs lawyer was asked about that, he dodged it, Schwartz said. How are they going to show that this advertisement caused a third party to do this violent act? The decision establishes, for the first time, that plaintiffs can get around the 2005 federal law giving protection to gunmakers from liability even though there was no finding of negligent entrustment basically, when a purveyor irresponsibly sells or gives something to someone who then causes harm, such as a bartender serving a drunk person who then drives. And in Connecticut, the decision significantly expands the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act. For the first time, the court has allowed the act to be used in cases where there was no commercial relationship. The shooter did not buy the gun he used to kill 20 first-graders and six educators at the Sandy Hook Elementary School; his mother did. The court abandoned, or said it never really had, a commercial relationship test, said Robert M. Langer, a partner and head of the antitrust and consumer protection practice at Wiggin & Dana in Hartford. There are a number of cases...that have concluded over the past 15 years that a private litigant needed to have that type of commercial relationship, Langer said. It has been uniformly applied up until now. He added, If I were on the Connecticut Supreme Court I would have ruled differently. That provision is not subject to reversal by the U.S. Supreme Court, in the event a Remington appeal were to be accepted by the high court. Speaking on Thursday, a partner with Koskoff, Koskoff & Bieder called the Connecticut court decision a turning point in the legal quest of 10 families the firm represents in holding Remington accountable for selling the gun used in the murders. The court has said that the gun industry - in this case Remington - is protected in many, many ways that other industries (are not), and they have not agreed with many of our claims based on that immunity, said Josh Koskoff, the partner who is leading the firms work on the case. But theyve approved of this fundamental principle that you cannot as an industry or as a company that is engaged in the sale and marketing of dangerous items you cant engage in reckless marketing that does nothing to address a problem, but only contributes to it. Again, though, the key is in the connection between the marketing and the murders. Remington Outdoor Co., which owns Bushmaster, was recently in bankruptcy. The company, with its roots in Bridgeport, has its headquarters gun manufacturing plant in Madison, N.C., with a larger factory at another historic base in Ilion, N.Y. A year ago with obligations of more than $1 billion under former owner Cerberus Capital, Remington undertook a swift bankruptcy reorganization under Chapter 11 protections that shifted control of the company to creditors JPMorgan Chase and Franklin Advisors. At the time of the bankruptcy filing, Remington indicated it expected claims to be filed on behalf of litigants through several law firms, including Koskoff, Koskoff & Bieder, without specifying amounts those plaintiffs might seek. Remington has tried everything during this five-year period to prevent us from looking at their stuff, Koskoff said Thursday. At the end of the day, you just have to wonder what are they hiding? Why dont they just turn it over? If they are so confident that we dont have a case, lets see your stuff. As of last May, Remington listed assets of $841 million, more than a quarter of that amount represented by the estimated value of the companys existing inventory of weapons and parts that anti-gun activists would rather keep off the street. Remington reported sales of $43.4 million for a period of just over a month through early May, and a net cash outflow of $27.1 million when factoring in disbursements totaling $70.5 million. Remington has not published updated finances since. Multiple media outlets reported the company initiated layoffs this month that could total 200 jobs. Rep. Steve Stafstrom, D-Bridgeport, a lawyer and co-chairman of the legislative Judiciary Committee, said he is eager to see what the Sandy Hook families can find out during the discovery process. Frankly, Im happy to see the Supreme Court allow them their day in court to present their argument to a jury. I think were going to see some very interesting things come out during discovery, and the bottom line is that no one needs an AR-15 assault rifle. And the allegation that that rifle is being marketed for children should be very concerning to every resident. Schwartz, the Washington lawyer and tort expert, said, as the great Justice Benjamin Cardozo once keenly observed, negligence in the air will not do. You need causation. Staff writer Ken Dixon contributed to this report. GREENWICH Bribery, cheating and mail fraud; scheming college counselors, unethical test proctors and unscrupulous Hollywood stars. The juicy details of the college-cheating scandal that made headlines across the country this week and touched down in Greenwich have a few drops left to be squeezed, but experts in the field say parents of college-bound teens should bracket that temptation and use the event as reason to evaluate whether they are unduly driving their childs application process, when they should be taking a backseat. Parents take on way too much of this with a good heart, but the message it sends is, Were going to do it and save you from it, West Hartford-based college consultant Laura Boyer said. If we dont shift that dynamic, its unhealthy for children and their development. The families who engaged in the fraud effectively told their children being at the top is worth sacrificing morals, and that whatever their children could do on their own would not be good enough, said Greenwich therapist Orla Cashman. I think it highlights that were misguided, she said. Weve lost our way. Cashman sees an omnipresent pressure to achieve in Greenwich, which is also the home of one of the indicted parents, Gordon Caplan. The success-driven culture is particularly evident in Greenwich families approach to college, said author Heather Won Tesoriero. The writer spent a year embedded in town while writing The Class about superstar science students at Greenwich High School, and describes in her book the ever-present pressure on teens to do well and get into a good college. Its a community with a lot of very successful, high-performing people who want their kids to be successful, high-performing in equal measure, she said. But experts wonder whether the drive for name-brand schools is worth the pressure, the money doled out for test prep and consultants, the calling in of connections and even alumni donations? Broadly speaking, we have sold the American population that a college education is absolutely necessary for success, said Christine Lai, who, in addition to founding the Special Education Legal Fund, which provides support for families of children with special needs, also volunteers to do admissions interviews for her alma mater. Upper-echelon families are particularly obsessed with name-brand schools, Lai and Boyer agreed. Once, a mother told Boyer: My child has to apply to an Ivy or Ivy-like institution so that she can meet her future spouse and live the life she has been accustomed to. Another said her son had to attend a tier-one college or university so he can reach his goals faster because employers are more apt to hire graduates from top-tier schools. Tesoriero observed in some cases one college being built up as the single place where a teen could achieve his or her goals, making the application process an ever-present source of tension and secrecy. Parents and their teens kept where they applied a secret to discourage competitive, cut-throat behavior, but the opacity among parents and students ramped up the possibility of bad feelings, she said. As a society, from birth to 18, we are disproportionately tilted in this direction that college is the most important thing that were working toward and I dont think that that is healthy, she said. College is not the ultimate determinate of success or happiness in life. Whole families bought into the college craze and were consumed by it, she said. The parents, by and large, were just as much wrapped up in it as the kids were, Tesoriero said. Kids pushed to attend a parents alma mater can face a particular battle. Unlike their parents, who enrolled in the given school when acceptance rates were five to 10 times higher, college-bound teens today have to be more competitive because the schools now have single-digit acceptance rates, Lai said. What would really change the system is if people became disillusioned for the product, Lai said. Another factor feeding the college frenzy is image: Parents care so deeply because it also reflects on them, Cashman said. I also think that their childs trajectory or success or failure is seen as a reflection of them and their parenting as opposed to that child and their experience, she said. But unless parents dial back their involvement, Boyer said, their children will not learn how to tackle problems on their own and are more likely to fail once they get to their parents dream school. Instead, the job of the parent is to teach, guide and facilitate their childrens accomplishments, and accompany them, Cashman said. Learn who your child is, she said. jo.kroeker@hearstmediact.com President Trump is transparent, pragmatic and approaches governing just like a business venture, always protecting the bottom line. Agreed, he is divisive, shoots from the hip, and even logical, his delivery, style, body language and mandate approach is enough to make voters ignore the issues positive benefits. The obvious difference is our president doesnt think like a party politician, he thinks like a CEO whose obligation is to the stockholders, in this case, the voter. Hes not a politician, hes not a party disciple to its dogma, hes not obligated to the lobbyist, political committees, campaign financing or his advisers he is committed to the voters to fulfill his campaign promises. President Trump has observed our democratic system, our individual rights and Congress deterioration of democracy and its encroaching socialist approach. Our incumbent Congress, both parties, demonstrates their disregard for the voting public. We observe this daily. Today the issue is our president refuses to go public with his tax returns. This is a big deal? Well, President Trump is first a citizen and second our president. If he chooses to keep his taxes private, thats his individual right. I wonder if either party would sponsor a bill dictating that Congress must declare their net worth upon election and declare net worth every four years thereafter until retired? Another non-issue is our 14,000 troops in Afghanistan. The rest of the 38 countries involved collectively contribute 4,000 troops. Isnt the troop inequity obvious? How can Congress continue to allow this country to be the worlds enabler? Recently our Congress lowered itself to adolescent behavior with a shutdown of government, a ridiculous debate over the Southern border fence, illegal immigrants, sanctuary cities, etc. Its a fact that this country harbors more than 11 million illegal immigrants. Dysfunctional socialist governments are creating caravans adding to this every year. Our immigration laws have been ignored simply because our economy demands this unskilled labor. Our country is governed by the rule of law. Both parties must change the law or enforce existing law. Isnt that their function? If we need varied immigrant laws dictated and enforced by states and regions, then create them. But dont create laws that wont be enforced as in the past. Our politicians, both parties, have been disingenuous regarding us, the voting public. Our government has stagnated. President Trump has observed this for years and will continue to expose our career politicians rendition of governing, i.e., denigrate the opposition. A conscientious appraisal by voters in the next election will determine if we remain a democracy or succumb to socialism. Frank Pellegrini is a resident of Southbury. NEWINGTON At a ceremony at the Cedar Mountain Commons Feb. 15, State Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown) presented World War II veteran John Faenza with a Citation from the General Assembly for his contributions in liberating France from Nazi oppression. At the ceremony, Faenza received Frances highest order of praise for outstanding merit, the Knight of Legion of Honor medal. Sen. Lesser said he was honored to present Faenza with the citation, and to witness Faenza receive such a prestigious medal. As Newingtons state senator, its always an honor to celebrate a veteran in our community, said Lesser. Theres something special anytime we get to recognize a member of the greatest generation, a World War II veteran, someone like Sergeant John Faenza. Faenza served in the United State Army Air Corps, carrying out bombing missions in France and Germany. The Knight of Legion of Honor medal is the highest honor a member of the military or a civilian can receive. The medal recognizes individuals for performing exceptional deeds for France. It was created by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802. The Madame Consul General from the French Consul in New York, Anne-Claire Legendre presented Faenza with the esteemed medal. Faenza also received a Certificate of Special Recognition from United States Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut). Faenza was celebrated for his service in the military and also for his service in Connecticut. After returning home, Faenza began working for the Hartford Police Department. Sen. Lesser thanked Faenza for his service at home and abroad. Hes helped keep many families safe, said Sen. Lesser. On behalf of the state of Connecticut, I am deeply grateful for his service to our country and to his contributions in the liberation of France. We are all honored by his service and presence. Social justice grants available The Office for Catholic Social Justice Ministry of the Archdiocese of Hartford is offering social justice grants to nonprofit organizations located within the Archdiocese. The deadline is April 1. To qualify for a Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) grant, an organization must assist people living in poverty, and allow them to have a dominant voice in the organization. The organization must demonstrate both the intention and capacity to work effectively toward the elimination of the root causes of poverty and to enact institutional change. For additional information on the Catholic Campaign for Human Development and grant guidelines and applications visit: http://www.catholicsocialjustice.org Groups can also apply for grants EAST HAMPTON The East Hampton Arts & Culture Commission welcomes grant applications from East Hampton organizations and individuals with programs and/or projects that enrich the lives of East Hampton residents through the arts. Deadline to apply is April 1. Eligibility: One of two $300 grants are available to be awarded to individuals or organizations residing in East Hampton, Connecticut. The commission reserves the right to award a grant to an individual or organization it determines will have the most potential impact of arts and/or culture on the town. Incomplete forms will be denied; applicants can resubmit. Criteria for awarding grants: The artistic and organizational quality of the organization and/or project and its likelihood of continuing viability or success. The organizations or projects accessibility and service to the East Hampton community. Grant recipients must credit the East Hampton Arts and Culture Commission on all press releases, posters, print advertising and programs. Evaluation: An interview may be requested of the candidate prior to awarding the grant. An update of your progress will be required six months post-award date and a final report will be required one year post award date. Applications are available at www.artsforeasthamptonct.org Commission welcomes grant applications EAST HAMPTON The East Hampton Arts & Culture Commission is accepting applications from East Hampton High School Seniors for a $200 grant to support an annual East Hampton High School Capstone Project. The grant will help support one student's proposed Capstone Project, a multifaceted assignment that serves as a culminating academic and intellectual experience for students. Capstone projects may take a wide variety of forms including a long-term investigative project that culminates in a final product, presentation, or performance. Applicants for the EHACC Capstone Grant will be invited to present his/her Capstone Project idea to commission members during an agreed upon commission meeting. Deadline to apply is April 1. Applications are available at www.artsforeasthamptonct.org or email arts@easthamtponct.org for information. Rockfall Foundation offers environmental leader scholarships MIDDLETOWN Applications are now being accepted for the Virginia R. Rollefson Environmental Leadership Scholarship, a $1,000 award to recognize leadership and initiative by a high school junior or senior residing in Middlesex County, Lyme, or Old Lyme for participation in a program, project, or activity that benefits preservation, conservation, restoration or environmental education. The scholarship is presented by The Rockfall Foundation. Applications must be submitted by March 1. The scholarship is named in honor of former Executive Director of The Rockfall Foundation, Virginia R. Ginny Rollefson, who retired in 2010 after 24 years with the Foundation. The award honors her long service to the Foundation, her enthusiasm, and her belief that we all benefit when young people are actively engaged in making their communities a better place to live. For a copy of the application and more information, visit www.rockfallfoundation.org or call 860-347-0340. Founded in 1935 by Middletown philanthropist Clarence S. Wadsworth, The Rockfall Foundation is one of Connecticuts oldest environmental organizations. The Foundation supports environmental education, conservation and planning initiatives in the Lower Connecticut River Valley through public programs and grants. In addition, the Rockfall Foundation operates the historic deKoven House Community Center that offers meeting and event room rentals and office space for non-profit organizations. For additional information about the Virginia R. Rollefson Environmental Leadership Scholarship or The Rockfall Foundation, visit www.rockfallfoundation.org or call 860-347-0340. 5 1 of 5 Ben Lambert / Hearst Connecticut Media Show More Show Less 2 of 5 Ben Lambert / Hearst Connecticut Media Show More Show Less 3 of 5 4 of 5 Ben Lambert / Hearst Connecticut Media Show More Show Less 5 of 5 NEW HAVEN City police are investigating a shooting that took place early Saturday morning on Spring Street, according to Capt. Anthony Duff. Duff said in a release Saturday that police responded to an activation of ShotSpotter in the area of Spring Street between Button Street and Dewitt Street at approximately 1:21 a.m. Saturday. GUILFORD An investment banker with deep Shoreline roots has just acquired a major chunk of commercial real estate along the Town Green for $8.1 million. Todd Taylor, managing partner in Green Earth Capital, bought 9 buildings with 46 units, 23 of which are apartments and 23 commercial space including seven restaurants located on or near the southern corner of the iconic Green. He bought the buildings from Craig Maturo, a former Connecticut resident now living in South Carolina. The deal closed March 8, according to Tony Fappiano, the owner of Guilford-based Shoreline Real Estate, which represented both parties in the sale. This may be one of the biggest commercial real estate transactions in Guilford this year, Fappiano said. The deal includes a parking lot located at the rear of the buildings on Whitfield Street. It also includes an alleyway/courtyard area that leads from the front of the Whitfield Street buildings back to the parking lot. The buildings include street level retail space as well as offices and apartments on those properties which have a second floor. The buildings that Taylor now owns that are located on the Whitfield Street side of the Green stretch from Flutterby to Centro Pizza and include Swish, Purple Bear, Details and Marijane Boutique. The 49-year-old Taylor, who grew up in the Niantic section of East Lyme, didnt set out to buy the buildings. He was helping his fiancee look for space to house her jewelry business. But when he saw the location and the full roster of tenants, Taylor decided to make an offer. His fiancee, Daniela Balzano, now operates Water Street Jewelers and Taylor has an adjacent office. Ive always wanted to own something in my hometown, but I dont like to take really big risks, he said. All of the spaces are occupied and there is really good tenant diversity. And all but two or three of the businesses are owned by women. Most of Taylors other commercial real estate holdings are spread across Colorado, Pennsylvania and Texas. His real estate holdings in Connecticut are brownfield properties in other parts of the state. Taylor is looking to rebrand the properties he now owns as The Whitfield and Water Shoppes, named for the streets that the buildings are located on. He is already working with a marketing firm to develop a website and other materials to promote the rebranding. The goal of the rebranding, he said, is to increase foot traffic for his tenants and Taylors target audience is people who are from outside the immediate area and may not be aware that Guilfords shopping district extends beyond Route 1. Taylor is no stranger to the needs of small businesses. He is on the leadership council of the National Small Business Association. Taylor is also planning on investing some money to make minor cosmetic improvements to some of the buildings. The properties Taylor purchased include seven restaurants. Among the restaurants in the complex are Hen & Heifer, whose pastry chef and co-owner Whang Su is a James Beard Award finalist for outstanding pastry chef, and Carmine Liguori, who owned Carmines in Westville before opening Centro Pizza, a casual Italian food restaurant on the Green seven years ago. I was in New York City and wanted to start something on my own, said Su, adding that he and his business partner opened the restaurant six years ago. And Guilford just felt like the right place to do it. luther.turmelle@hearstmediact.com A narrow dirt path yards from a public playground in North Camden was cluttered with the hulls of several boats propped up on stacked cinderblocks on a recent weekday morning. They were a few of what seemed to be dozens of other water crafts strewn about a sprawling graveyard of junk, many without even the dignity of cinderblocks. Several others were partially submerged in what is billed as the Pyne Poynt Marina. The narrow dirt path wound around a jungle of vegetation, shells of cars, a thick rope hanging from a tree and other items that would make swell props in a horror film. What wasnt readily visible was a historic vessel at the center a preservation effort. An aerial photo of the marina recently posted on social media showed the Barnegat, a 668 ton, 130-foot long ship, was in fact still there, surrounded by nearly three dozen boats at the edge of the Delaware River across from Philadelphia. The Barnegat Lightship, docked in rundown marina in Camden, was included in a list of the state's top 10 endangered historic places. (Courtesy of George Dilworth) I just think its sad that its sitting there rotting when its historic and should be restored and on display and lit up, said George Dilworth, who posted a recent aerial, drone photo of the boat. The Barnegat was built in 1904 a few miles south in Camdens New York Shipyard. It is one of the few ships of its kind to survive and a state preservation group included it last year in its list of the 10 most endangered historic places. Its a part of our maritime history, said Courteney Mercer, director of Preservation New Jersey. I dont think there is any concerted effort to do anything about it, at this point. We list them. We arent the ones who have a lot of capacity to save them. The Barnegat is the only ship on the 2018 top 10 list. The vessel was acquired by Rod Sadler, the owner of the marina, in the early 1990s, Mercer said. His plan then was to raise money to restore it and make it an attraction on the Camden waterfront, she said. That never happened and Mercer and other preservationists wonder if it ever will. Efforts to reach Sadler by phone were not successful. His address is listed at the marina. A gate surrounding a home there had a sign posted that said: Keep Off by Order of Police Department. Sadler is also listed as the chairman of the Camden city department of development and planning. A phone call there was directed to the mayors office, where a spokesman said he did not have his contact information. The planning position is not a paid job. Michael Lang, director emeritus of the Camden Shipyard & Maritime Museum, said he thinks Sadler is getting a bad rap. He saved it from the scrapyard, Lang said Tuesday. Id be shocked if there was any money involved. He offered to let the Barnegat stay there. Hes being vilified because its not doing well there. Its not easy to save these ships. Lang said Sadler has been active in teaching the maritime history of Camden. Sadler agreed to take the vessel when the Heritage Ship Guild on the Philadelphia waterfront disbanded in the early 1990s, Lang and Preservation New Jersey said. The Guild had acquired it in the 1970s from a Maryland group that displayed it after the Barnegat was decommissioned in 1967. Lang said he couldnt put a price on how much it would cost restore the ship. But he said the cast iron haul is susceptible to rust. Mercer said she has reached out to a list of potential donors to help pay for the preservation but no funds have been raised so far. Camden County officials said theyre want to see the vessel preserved. We hope that its current owner finally gives the Barnegat the attention it needs or finds a new owner who will," said Freeholder Jeffrey Nash, who is also the vice-chairman of the Delaware River Port Authority, which has funded economic development on both sides of the Delaware River. "It is not too late for this piece of history to be saved, as weve seen examples of light boat preservations in New York with the Light Ship Nantucket, and in Delaware with the Light Ship Overfalls. The Barnegat was born in Camden its time that it gets a proper celebration of its more than 115 years of service. The steam-propelled ship was deployed by the Coast Guard to help ward ships away from shallow waters and shorelines off the Jersey coast, near Barnegat, long before the advent of GPS navigation. It had a second life during WWII as a vessel used for boarding ships and patrolling a coast line crawling with German submarines. It was retired in 1967 and quickly fell into disrepair. But it continues to exist when only a handful of a similar class of boats do. A historic photo of the Coast Guard ship Barnegat. (U.S. Coast Guard) Its been almost a year since we listed it, Mercer said. Most people didnt even know it existed. We were shocked when we found out it was there. Other historic ships also dot the waterfront near here. A preservation effort is ongoing for the SS United States which sits docked on the waterfront in South Philadelphia. The vessel, 100 feet longer than the Titanic, debuted in 1951 and once owned the speed record for crossing the Atlantic. It continues to deteriorate as preservation efforts are ongoing. The Battleship New Jersey has been docked on the Camden waterfront since 2001 and is a floating museum as one of the most decorated warships in history. A private fundraising effort is ongoing for its preservation and restoration. The battleship is two miles south of the Barnegat but there is currently a world of difference between the two historic vessels. Lang thinks a restored Barnegat would be a welcome addition near the battleship. Its the epitome of the former industrial might of Camden, Lang said. It protected our freedom against Germany during World War II. Its an important artifact. When its gone, its gone. It would be wonderful to still walk the decks to hear of its heroism. Bill Duhart may be reached at bduhart@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter@bduhart. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us.nj.com/tips. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Ask Alexa for New Jersey news UPDATE: What we know about Anthony Comello, the accused mob boss killer arrested in N.J. A man has been arrested in New Jersey in connection with the killing of Francesco Cali, a reputed boss of a New York crime family, police said. Anthony Comello, 24, is from Staten Island, where the fatal shooting of Cali occurred Wednesday in front of his home in the Hilltop Terrace section of the borough, according to the New York Police Department. Comello was picked up early Saturday at a home in Brick where he has family, an official told NJ Advance Media. He is being held in the Ocean County jail on a count of murder, according to the jail records. Federal prosecutors in Brooklyn had referred to Cali in court filings in recent years as the underboss of the Gambino organization, related through marriage to the Inzerillo clan in the Sicilian Mafia. Multiple press accounts since 2015 said Cali had ascended to the top spot in the gang, although he never faced a criminal charge saying so. His only mob-related criminal conviction came a decade ago, when Cali pleaded guilty in an extortion conspiracy involving a failed attempt to build a NASCAR track on Staten Island. He was sentenced to 16 months in federal prison and was released in 2009. The last crime family boss to be shot in New York City was Paul Castellano. The Gambino crime boss was assassinated outside Sparks Steakhouse in Manhattan in 1985. The Gambino Family was once among the most powerful criminal organizations in the U.S., but federal prosecutions in the 1980s and 1990s sent its top leaders to prison and diminished its reach. The Associated Press and NJ Advance Media reporter Alex Napoliello contributed to this report. Bill Duhart may be reached at bduhart@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter@bduhart. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Ask Alexa for New Jersey news A reputed leader in the Bloods gang with a violent rap sheet was sentenced to life in prison, plus ten years, in the ambush-style execution of a man outside a Newark nightclub, prosecutors said Friday. An Essex County jury in November 2018 convicted Naim Stackz-Strafford Jones of conspiracy to commit murder and weapons offenses in the slaying of 23-year-old William Porter, IV. Superior Court James W. Donohue imposed the sentence Thursday on Jones for his role in orchestrating the fatal shooting. Jones, prosecutors say, is the reputed Godfather of the Red Breed Guerillas set. Jones, 42, has prior convictions stemming from a double homicide in 2014, according to officials. Naim Jones heinous record of unrepentant violence, and role as a leader of violent street gangs left no reasonable alternative but to seek a life sentence for this, the third life he has been convicted of taking, said Essex County Assistant Prosecutor Adam Wells, who tried the case. Porter was gunned down April 21, 2017 around 2:30 a.m. as he left a nightclub on Mulberry Street, near Oliver, in the citys Central Ward. He was shot eight times, including six times to the face and neck. Prosecutors argued the killing was carefully staged by Jones and two other men. Jurors convicted Jones along with Hakeem Hakaveli - The Don Maloney, 38, of Irvington, of conspiracy to commit murder in the attack. The shooter, Rashon Numnutz Jackson, 31, of Irvington, was also convicted on charges of conspiracy to commit murder, murder and weapons offenses. A longtime so-called soldier in the Bloods, prosecutors maintained he killed Porter under orders from Jones. At trial Wells told jurors surveillance cameras captured the trio at the club before the shooting and showed Jackson opening fire at Porter, a member of the Grape Street Crips. Authorities have said the violent Red Breed Guerillas set of the Bloods controlled heroin and crack distribution near Stratford Place and the Grace West Manor homes in Newark. Jackson and Maloney were previously sentenced in Porters murder. Jackson must serve a minimum 63 years and nine months of his life term before being eligible for parole. For his part, Maloney was sentenced to a 70 year prison term and must serve 52 years and six months behind bars before being eligible for parole. Noah Cohen may be reached at ncohen@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @noahyc. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters JERSEY CITY A Hudson County judge on Friday handed a victory to county prosecutors when he refused to throw out charges entirely against two men whose lawyers allege are victims of prosecutorial misconduct. Judge Patrick J. Arre said the Hudson County Prosecutors Office erred when it delivered evidence to defense attorneys more than a year into the case, but that the action did not rise to the level necessary for Arre to toss the charges against the men. The pair are accused of murdering Michael Bowers in Jersey City in November 2016. Arre said he is convinced that the HCPOs late delivery of evidence to defense attorneys was not done intentionally because I believe if it was done intentionally it never would have been turned over. The judges decision was not entirely great news for the Hudson County Prosecutors Office. It came with a public scolding from Arre, who said the facts in this case show the HCPO exhibits mismanagement, lack of supervision, sloppiness and if nothing else gross negligence and said the prosecutors office is on notice to change its behavior. Arre said he will now require prosecutors deliver sworn statements that they are complying with rules on discovery or face severe sanctions." We respect and agree with the courts (ultimate) legal holding denying the defense motion to dismiss," Hudson County Prosecutors Office spokesman Ray Worrall said. "The prosecution will proceed in accordance with the courts ruling. Worrall did not address the judges criticisms. The defendants are Khalil Holmes and Nassin Moody. Their lawyers had asked Arre to dismiss the charges against them with prejudice meaning prosecutors cannot refile them after prosecutors delivered a 13-month-old statement from an apparent eyewitness to Bowers murder that contradicts one taken from another eyewitness. The assistant prosecutor handling the case, David Feldman, said a homicide investigator forgot to deliver the statement to prosecutors after it was taken. Defense attorneys received the statement on the eve of the trial. The newly discovered evidence was considered a violation of discovery rules so the indictment against Holmes and Moody was thrown out in early February. Prosecutors refiled identical charges the same day. The two men have been jailed since their arrest in November 2016. The defendants attorneys argued during two recent hearings that the prosecutors handling of the statement was so egregious the new charges should be thrown out. Feldman argued that it was a big error, but not willful. He said he delivered the evidence to defense attorneys as soon as he realized they didnt have it. The next step for Holmes is a detention hearing. His initial arrest came before new bail rules went into effect statewide that require such hearings. Holmes will move back to juvenile court he was not yet 18 when he was initially charged with Bowers murder where a judge will determine whether the new evidence changes whether Holmes will be tried as an adult. Terrence T. McDonald may be reached at tmcdonald@jjournal.com. Follow him on Twitter @terrencemcd. Find The Jersey Journal on Facebook. A Hudson County judge ruled in favor of Jersey Citys new payroll tax on Friday, dismissing a lawsuit challenging the tax that was filed by a group led by real estate developers Mack-Cali and LeFrak. The developers and the other plaintiffs failed to demonstrate that the ordinance approving the tax should not be enforced as written, Hudson County Superior Court Judge Peter Bariso says in his 61-page decision. The ordinance is valid as a matter of law, Bariso wrote. The payroll tax a 1 percent levy on businesses was approved by the City Council last year and went into effect on Jan. 1. It is intended to offset cuts to state education aid that local officials believe could devastate the 30,000-student school district. Barisos ruling refers to the slashed state aid as a monetary crisis and says if the tax is not imposed, the district could see teacher layoffs, increased classroom sizes, cut bus routes and more. "Taxing businesses in a city that needs to make up for a school funding deficit is rational, the ruling says. Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop called the ruling a great win for Jersey City and our schools on Twitter Friday. A spokesman for the plaintiffs could not immediately be reached to comment. Both sides expect there to be an appeal. State lawmakers approved a bill last summer allowing the city to collect the tax, at about the time the state approved a separate bill that eliminates a form of state school funding that would have brought Jersey City $175 million this year. The revenue is earmarked exclusively for public schools. The removal of the aid will happen over time, with the cut for the 2019-2020 year equaling about $27 million. The district had a $660 million budget for 2018-19. The plaintiffs sued the city and the state in December, arguing: the state law allowing the payroll tax is unconstitutional special legislation, which refers to bills that excludes towns it should include; the city law discriminates against non-residents by exempting the wages of city residents; the local ordinance violates the dormant commerce clause of the U.S. Constitution; and more. Barisos ruling dismisses all of these arguments. When Bariso heard arguments in the case on March 8, he indicated he had largely made up his mind except on the plaintiffs argument that taxes only the wages of non-residents is unconstitutional. In Fridays ruling, the judge argued that it is not. Applying the tax to non-residents only helps compensate the city for costs associated with the volume of people commuting into Jersey City daily who do not pay property taxes, he wrote. "Employees commute into Jersey City daily (and) take advantage of the safety brought by a vibrant police and fire presence and use the citys roads, water, and resources. Terrence T. McDonald may be reached at tmcdonald@jjournal.com. Follow him on Twitter @terrencemcd. Find The Jersey Journal on Facebook. JERSEY CITY A Jersey City man faces life in prison after a jury took just 90 minutes to convict him of fatally shooting a man just steps from his home, David Cooper, 28, was found guilty on all counts, including the murder of 20-year-old Ahmin Colclough and multiple weapons offenses, Friday in front of Hudson County Superior Court Judge Mirtha Ospina, the Hudson County Prosecutors Office announced. Cooper, who must serve at least 85 percent of his sentence, will be sentenced May 31, 2019. Colclough was shot multiple times in the driveway of 391 Forrest St. at about 10 a.m. on Sept. 19 2016 and he was later pronounced dead at Jersey City Medical Center, authorities said. Assistant Prosecutor Kevin Roe presented evidence in court that Cooper fired a 9mm bullet into the back of the neck of Colclough, who was just steps away from his childhood home. The 20-year-olds death was the fourth during a two-week span. Cooper was charged with gun possession earlier in 2016 after he and two others were shot. Police investigating the July incident found a gun in the car in which Cooper was traveling. When Sandy John Masselli was released on bond before trial after being charged with involvement in several fraud schemes, he had to put something up as collateral. In laymans terms: if you mess up before trial, well lock you up and take this from you. Masselli, of Old Bridge, agreed that if he violated the terms of his release on those October 2017 federal charges, he would forfeit a house to the federal government. It turns out, his mother owns that house and is not happy, documents show. Her son did mess up, allegedly. On Jan. 31 this year, Masselli was arrested and charged with bank fraud in South Carolina, court documents show. Police in Cayce, a town just outside Columbia, learned of a theft of 23 checks totaling about $124,000 from a FedEx container earlier that month. The checks were made out to Edens, a real estate company. They were retail rent checks. Edens reported the checks stolen on Jan. 14. That same day, federal prosecutors wrote, Masselli registered a company with the federal Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the New Jersey Treasury Department called Edens Point Partners LLC, a name similar to the real estate company. The next day, he opened a business bank account in the companys name, at a South Carolina bank, and verified his identity with a copy of his passport - hed handed over the original as part of his conditions of release from federal custody. He then deposited more than $100,000 of the stolen checks into the account and then withdrew more than $40,000 for expenses including lodging, college tuition, and retail visits, including to Best Buy, authorities allege. When they learned of his South Carolina arrest, federal prosecutors in New Jersey had him shipped back to New Jersey and argued to have him jailed pending trial. And now theyre investigating the property on Creighton Circle in Old Bridge that he put up as collateral. Massellis mother, who now lives in Boca Raton, Florida, wrote to the court that she owns the house and did not authorize her son to give it to the government. Shes trying to sell the home and is asking the court to let that continue. A letter from the U.S. Attorneys Office in New Jersey to U.S. District Judge Anne Thompson in Trenton recommends that pretrial officials investigate Massellis putting up the house as collateral. Masselli is now being held in federal detention at the Monmouth County jail, in Freehold Township. The defendant is detained and the issues regarding the original conditions of bail are now moot. We have no additional comment on the status of the house, a spokesman for U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito said Friday. In addition the federal fraud case in New Jersey, Masselli also still faces a civil suit and U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) action on a separate scheme in which he allegedly took money for shares of a bogus company and then spent the cash on himself. Joe Brandt can be reached at jbrandt@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JBrandt_NJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Bartholomeo Bennie Ficeto is supposed to take a 15-minute break, but he never does when bagging groceries at the Stop & Shop in Edison. The store manager, Sal Marconi, has tried to convince Bennie thats what everyone calls him that its OK for him to rest. Fellow employees havent been successful, either. What am I going to take a break for?" asked Ficeto, his elderly eyes squinting from behind his glasses. Thats a waste of time. Ficeto, an Edison resident, is about earning his keep at 97 years old. Yes, you read that correctly. Clocking in four hours, twice a week on Tuesday and Thursday, is nothing for this spunky, 5-foot tall patriot, who wears a beige cap pictured with the military aircraft in which he was a gunner during World War II. You see that," said Ficeto, pointing to the image of the B-25 Mitchell bomber. Ficeto flew many missions with the 310th Bombardment Group 428th squadron over northern Africa, Gibraltar and Sardinia, a large Italian island in the Mediterranean Sea. Bartholomeo 'Bennie' Ficeto, was a gunner a B-25 Mitchell bomber during World War II. He flew missions over northern Africa with the 310th Bombardment Group 428th squadron. That was a long time, ago," he said. The history lesson was cut short when a customer walked up. Ficeto is back to double bagging, taking immense pride in his ability to work non-stop. His ethic was the same at the Stop & Shop in Bloomfield, where he was first hired nearly 10 years ago. He transferred to the Edison store about six months ago and his industrious spirit hasnt changed. Ive gotta work. If not, you get senile," he said. At my age, you just cant sit around." He stands the entire time, working steady, not slow. Any pause, he said, would disrupt his flow. Thats about right. Who would want to miss his charming personality anyway? How ya doing girls?" he asks, waving to PNC employees at the branch inside the store. Bartholomeo 'Bennie' Ficeto, 97, never never takes a break during his four hour shift bagging groceries at Stop&Shop in Edison. The greeting fades to humorous one-liners that keep people laughing. This one pokes fun at his speed when he only has one item to bag: Fast and Furious," Ficeto said. Thats it." And that smile. Not the one in his eyes. His happy expression reminds me of the late comedian George Burns without the cigar. Hes so cute and adorable," said Helene Kenny, an Edison resident, whose father served in WWII. God bless him." Just everybody has that sentiment when they learn Ficetos age and see him work. I want to be just like him when I grow up," said Joe Miciak, 79, of Metuchen. Then plan to be busy, sir. Ficeto has never let dust settle on his shoes. As a younger man, Ficeto was a beautician and barber in Belleville, his hometown where he grew up and lived on Naples Avenue. He took his craft to the Army, making use of it creatively. In a photograph of his squadron, seven soldiers are standing single file next to one another and each of their heads is bald, except for neatly clipped bold letters Ficeto shaved into the middle of their scalps. Bartholomeo 'Bennie' Ficeto, center, and members of his 310th Bombardment Group 428th squadron. Ficeto, a gunner who flew missions on a B-25 Mitchell, was a barber and he shaved his soldiers head with the word, 'victory.' Together, the cropped block characters spell, victory, to remind them of their purpose. The same word, in morse code, is etched onto the heads of soldiers kneeling in front with Ficeto holding his barber clippers. After the war, Ficeto returned to Belleville and continued his trade. Over the years, he worked several other jobs to earn a living. He operated a power press machine for the Lionel Train Company and retired as a chemical warehouse supervisor for LOreal, the cosmetic company. But Ficeto kept working, taking a gig at a coffee shop across the street from the Stop & Shop in Bloomfield. When the coffee spot closed, Daniel Reynolds, a friend who is like a nephew to Ficeto, knew he would get bored. Reynolds filled out the Stop & Shop application and Ficeto was hired to the unexpected delight of customers and staff that incredulously witnessed his ceaseless work streak. It gives him purpose," Reynolds said. It gives him something to do." Mark Gucia, his former supervisor at the Bloomfield store, couldnt get Ficeto to take a break, either, when he stocked shelves with packaged cookies and bagged groceries. Instead, Gucia said he had an employee, who talked to everyone willing to listen. The customers loved him. Ficeto transferred to the Edison store last year after his Belleville home fell into disrepair. He moved to Edison with Reynolds, who takes him to work and has known and looked after him for a number of years. Its been six months and Ficeto rarely misses a day, except for inclement weather. When hes there, look out. He doesnt want any help. Hell fuss at me," said Diane Carlucci, the cashier with him on lane 4. But hes good. Hes strong." As his shift ended, Ficeto remained conscientious, not wanting to punch out before 2 p.m. Its the only time he stopped to sit and rest. The Ficeto experience is filed with soul, and he sees his longevity as blessings from the Lord. Im going to keeping working," he said. Wait for it. Theres more. Until Im 100 years old. Im not that far from it." Bartholomeo 'Bennie' Ficeto, 97, at Stop & Shop in Edison. Read More Barry Carter may be reached at bcarter@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter@BarryCarterSL. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Authorities have asked the public to help find a missing 19-year-old Sicklerville woman who may be endangered. Gabriel Gabby Stevens, 19, was last seen leaving her home on the 200 block of 1st Avenue on Thursday, March 14 around 11 a.m., according to a statement from the Camden County Prosecutors Office. Detectives said they believed she may be endangered and in the Sicklerville area or in the area of Atlantic City, the prosecutors office said. Investigators did not offer any further information on why she may in danger. Stevens was described as a white female who is about 5-feet-7-inches tall and weighs 140 pounds with blue eyes, black hair, with a small scar under her left eye, and has a strong Southern accent. Anyone who saw her was asked to call 9-1-1 immediately and report her location. They were also asked to contact Camden County Prosecutors Office Det. Marty Farrell at (856) 225-8424 or Winslow Township Police Det. Nick Arnold at (609) 567-0700. Information can also be emailed to ccpotips@ccprosecutor.org. Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @chrisrsheldon Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. A third confirmed case of measles in Lakewood Friday caused health officials to declare an outbreak of the highly contagious disease. An unidentified adult male from Ocean County visited locations in town including houses of worship, a wedding venue and yeshiva while infected with measles between March 9 and March 14 and may have exposed others, according to the New Jersey Department of Health. A complete list of all the places the man visited and the times he visited them can be found by clicking here. The health department asked people who visited any of the Lakewood locations to call their doctor immediately to discuss potential exposure and risk of developing the illness." With three positive cases of measles reported in the last two weeks, the health department has now declared this as the second outbreak in the Lakewood community in the last five months. The first outbreak sickened 33 people in Ocean and Passaic Counties before it was declared over in January. State and local health officials were investigating if there were any connection between the recent cases, the previous outbreak in Ocean County, or current outbreaks in other states. People who have not been vaccinated or have not had measles were at risk of getting the disease, which usually starts with symptoms including fever, coughing and a rash that usually starts on the face. These symptoms might not develop until as late as April 7 for anyone who was infected by the third man who was recently infected with the disease. Measles can also cause serious complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis, a swelling of the brain, and can lead to a miscarriage, premature birth or low-birth weight baby for pregnant women, the CDC said. It can be spread through the air when someone coughs or sneezes and an people can get sick if they come in contact with mucus or saliva from an infected person, officials said. We urge everyone to check to make sure they and their family members are up-to-date on measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) vaccine and all other age-appropriate immunizations," state epidemiologist Dr. Christina Tan said in a release. Getting vaccinated not only protects you, it protects others around you who are too young to get the vaccine or cant receive it for medical reasons. The New Jersey Department of Health also warned on Feb. 26 that a New Jersey resident with measles may have exposed others to measles in Bergen County. Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @chrisrsheldon Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. A man who stole 28 computers from New Jersey Schools Development Authority (SDA) and sold them online was sentenced Friday to probation and could avoid jail time. Corey Jester, 49, of Freehold was sentenced to 180 days in county jail that will be served at the end of his probation, but that sentence will be waived if meets all the conditions of his probation, according to a statement from the New Jersey Attorney Generals Office. The state had recommended that Jester serve three years in state prison but a New Jersey Superior Court Judge opted for the probationary sentence, officials said. Jester was contracted to be a temporary employee at the IT help desk for the SDA in 2017 and during that time, he stole 28 computers including mini PC computers and laptops with a retail value between $25,000 and $30,000 from a storage closet there, according to the attorney generals office. He then cleaned data from the computers, installed new software and sold them online for between $100-$200 each, authorities said. When the SDA found that the computers were missing in December 2017, they investigated and then reached out to the attorney generalss office. Jester was was arrested by the New Jersey State Police in January 2018. He plead guilty in October to a charge of third degree theft by unlawful taking and was ordered was to pay $22,085 to the SDA, officials said. Jester paid $5,000 toward that total on Friday. His brother Darryl Jester, 55, of Lawrence, was also indicted for fencing and receiving stolen property for allegedly helping his brother sell some computers, the attorney generals office has said. The status of that case was unclear Friday. Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @chrisrsheldon Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. In the final months of the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln asked Congress to pass an amendment to the Constitution that would ban slavery forever, a fight he eventually won. But he lost the first vote in the House, in December of 1864. He was 13 votes short. What to do? I thought of that moment when Gov. Phil Murphy was asked last week how he intended to round up the votes to legalize recreational marijuana. Hes still short, especially in the Senate, with a showdown set for March 25. I wont get into if its five (votes short) or 10 or three or none, Murphy said. Im not a big believer in transactional politics. I believe my role will be to say, Listen, from my perspective as the chief executive of the state, let me tell you why I think this is an imperative. In other words, our governor intends to win the vote on the merits, not by dirtying his hands with any crude back room deals. He wants to play a high-minded game of politics. Lincoln saw things differently. Sure, he made the argument on the merits. He even visited the home of a reluctant Congressman whose brother had died in the fighting, begging him to get past his racial bitterness and support the amendment. But it wasnt enough. Even the Congressman he visited wouldnt budge. So, Honest Abe went low. He assembled a team of cutthroats and told them to do what it takes, to get transactional, in his name. Many of the Congressmen who opposed Lincoln were Democrats who had lost their races in the 1864 vote and were serving their final months in office. They needed jobs, and Lincoln had plenty to offer, in return for their votes. One Congressman was even offered the ambassadorship to Denmark. With those dirty hands, Lincoln steered America to higher ground, an irony noted at the time by Rep. Thaddeus Stevens, the famous abolitionist from Pennsylvania: The greatest measure of the 19th century was passed by corruption, aided and abetted by the purest man in America. In Trenton, Murphys declaration of purity is not going down well. Give me a break, thats just laughable, says Sen. Declan OScanlon, R-Monmouth, the ranking Republican on the budget committee. Right now, Im a no vote. But I have about four things I want, and Im more than willing to talk about it. Democrats who have worked for years to pass this legislation are frustrated that the governor is not helping more. Maybe democracy worked like that in Athens, when Socrates was around. But in Trenton today? Its not the way the world works, says Senate President Steve Sweeney, D-Gloucester. This doesnt get done without him pushing. The governor has tons of authority. True that. The governor appoints judges, prosecutors, and hundreds of other jobs. He can seduce one group of legislators by sending extra money to their towns, and punish others by cutting them off. When it comes to horse-trading, no one has more power. Im constantly doing it, Sweeney says. I tell them, Ill post your bill for a vote, but I need your vote on this other bill. Thats real life. An example: Sen. Richard Codey, D-Essex, is one of Murphys few close allies in the Senate. The governor recently agreed to answer a key priority of Codeys by supporting a $100 million subsidy for the horse racing industry, spread over five years. But Codey plans to vote against the marijuana bill. So, I asked him if the governor called to ask for his support. No, he knew my position years ago, so there was no reason to call, Codey said. Really? Codey just got all he wanted and is now stiffing the governor in return. Thats not worth a phone call? Granted, policy discussion should start on the merits. It makes for better policy. To me, it seems brutal and insane that we lock up people for selling small quantities of weed, and its made intolerable by the glaring racial bias in enforcement. Codey says he thinks that can be fixed with separate legislation. I asked him how, and he had no ideas. He said hes concerned about kids smoking pot. The instances of young adults, even 12 and 13-year-olds smoking marijuana is way up in Colorado, he said. I checked. Its not true. The government of Colorado has sponsored extensive surveys to check that and has found no increase at all. It seems the kids have had access to pot all along. Sen. Ron Rice, another ally of Murphys, opposes the bill as well, saying it would flood cities like Newark with crazed potheads. This is plantation mentality, he says. This is not about social justice. This is a stick-up. Sen. Gerry Cardinale said at a recent hearing that brain scans show moderate use of marijuana can cause massive damage: Is the tax trade-off going to be sufficient to have a lot of people walking around with major portions of their brains knocked out? he asked. I dont think so. So, if Murphy plays this like Socrates, and puts his faith in rational thinking, hes going to run into some roadblocks in Trenton. Thats where transactional politics comes in. In the next two weeks, well hear a lot of discussion on the merits of this bill. It can be improved. Critics are raising legitimate concerns over the difficulty marijuana convicts will face as they try to expunge their criminal records. It doesnt do enough to open these new businesses to people of color from poor communities that were damaged the most by this destructive criminal prohibition. There is time for last-minute tweaking. But if Murphy wants to get this done, hell need more than good arguments. Hes short about six votes in the Senate, and a handful in the Assembly. Its time for him to use the full powers of his office punishments or rewards -- to get reluctant legislators on board. Thats not immoral. Its politics. Lincoln would approve. More: Tom Moran columns Tom Moran may be reached at tmoran@starledger.com or call (973) 836-4909. Follow him on Twitter @tomamoran. Find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook. Its good to see Brendan Gill, head of the Essex county freeholders, turn the heat up on Joe DiVincenzo to make his jail for immigrants more humane. They just announced theyll take $750,000 from their $40 million annual contract with Immigration and Customs Enforcement to help fund free lawyers for these detainees. There will still be substantial legal gaps, but its significant money, an important first step. And Gill told us he will push for two other important reforms. One is money for actual outdoor space, given that this was one of many complaints in a scathing report by ICEs own inspector. And, perhaps most crucially, he is echoing the American Civil Liberties Union of New Jerseys call for a community review board to oversee this jail. I wholeheartedly support both, Gill told us Friday. Some activists want to end the jails ICE contract entirely, but this would transfer the immigrants further from their families and lawyers, not end their detention. Instead, fight to improve their conditions here. DiVincenzos spokesman maintains the free lawyers were part of a joint decision, and says he will look at outdoor upgrades and a community review board. Heres what it looks like to us: This would be the first such board in the state for a jail, and Joe D has earned the distinction. We know what the food was like in his facility, thanks to the horrified federal inspector. But is there something in the water over there, too? Joe D has been handing out a fat raise to his long-time chore boy, Phil Alagia, who lied to us about conditions on the inside, weve learned. The jails warden just resigned after being arrested for drunk driving. The countys being sued over a mentally ill inmate who somehow managed to hang himself -- while in a straitjacket. And of course, theres the federal inspection in July, that found the jail was serving immigrants food that belonged in the garbage. Days later, Joe D put Alagia on the phone to feed us garbage, too: that he had by far the best correctional facility in the state of New Jersey and in the United States of America. For being the Sarah Huckabee Sanders of Essex County, apparently, he was being paid a pretty penny. Alagia got a $45k yearly bonus from Joe D, ostensibly to supervise the jailed immigrants, and spend more than a quarter of his time on this. Odd, then, that they claim they had no clue what would be in the appalling federal report. They can no longer be trusted, and the answer is community oversight -- not more political hackery. Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook. TAMPA It looks like Yankees right fielder Aaron Judge is ready for regular-season games. Judge has been raking all spring, and he went deep for the third time in four games hitting in the first inning on Saturday afternoon. Facing Toronto Blue Jays left-hander Thomas Pannone, Judge skied a 2-2 pitch over the left-field wall at Steinbrenner Field for his sixth homer, which leads the Grapefruit League and all big leaguers. Judge also homered on Friday when the Yanks blew out the Boston Red Sox 14-1 in Tampa. Heading into Saturday, Judge was batting .321 with five homers, 11 RBI, a .406 on-base percentage and a 1,406 OPS in 11 games. In his first two full big-league seasons, Judge mashed a rookie record 52 homers in 2017 and then 27 over 112 games in a 2018 season that included a seven-week disabled list stint due to a fractured wrist. His offensive goals for this spring arent racking up a bunch of homers. I look more at the quality at-bats, Judge said after Fridays game. Im just trying to swing at the right pitches, taking the right pitches. You never know. I could get jammed on three pitches and get three hits when they can be terrible swings or I could take three solid swings and not have anything to show for it. Randy Miller may be reached at rmiller@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @RandyJMiller. Find NJ.com on Facebook. A North Shore bail bondsman was arrested Friday (March 15) on human trafficking and sex crime charges stemming from an investigation by Louisiana State Police and the FBI, authorities said. James E. Johnson Jr. is accused of soliciting sexual favors from multiple victims in exchange for relief from their bond debt. Johnson, 53, of Bush, was booked with two counts of human trafficking, two counts of first-degree rape and one count of sexual battery, State Police said in a news release. Patrick Johnson, 31, who is James Johnsons son and business partner, was booked with three counts of possession of pornography involving juveniles. The investigation began this month when detectives received information that James Johnson had solicited sexual favors from multiple victims, State Police said. Detectives executed five search warrants at various businesses and properties in Covington and Amite, it said. Fox 8 reported that the Jims Bail Bonds location on North Columbia Street in Covington was raided by State Police and the FBI on Friday morning. James Johnson was arrested without incident at his office in Covington Friday around 8:30 a.m. by troopers from the State Police Bureau of Investigations Special Victims Unit, along with members of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. He was booked into the parish jail in Covington. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Detectives seized 27 firearms from Johnsons residence and businesses, police said. While executing the search warrant at a business in Amite, investigators discovered evidence of pornography involving juveniles, according to State Police. The discovery lead to the arrest of Patrick Johnson, who is also a bail bondsman. He was booked into the Tangipahoa Parish jail in Amite. The investigation is continuing, and authorities said there may be additional unreported victims. Anyone with information about the case is asked by authorities to contact the Louisiana State Police Special Victims Unit at 504-310-7000. The owners of Kitchen Witch Cookbooks on North Broad announced on their Facebook page on Friday (March 15) that the business would close. The Facebook post said: Regretfully, Kitchen Witch will not be renewing the lease. The bookstore, which is owned by Debbie Lindsey and retired chef Philipe LaMancusa, is one of the few book shops in the United States dedicated to cookbooks. It sells new, used and rare cookbooks as well as a homemade spice line, vinyl records and other collectibles. It would truly take on of those miracles in a Frank Capra movie, Lindsey said of what it would take to keep the shop open. She said she and LaMancusa have been shoring up the shop with their savings and can no longer do it, so they will not renew their lease when it expires in September. Lindsey said she asked LaMancusa what he would be willing to work for if an investor could be found to keep the shop open: He said minimum wage and I said me, too. We dont want to leave. Well be there full throttle through spring, Lindsey said, adding she and LaMancusa are still working out how to close the shop that contains thousands of books. Its crazy because tourists totally get us, she said. I just had a guy who ubered out here from the French Quarter today. And every local who has come out here, weve really become friends with, she said. Food and restaurant news in your inbox Every Thursday we give you the scoop on NOLA dining. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up The shop began about 20 years ago on Rampart Street and then closed for a time, Lindsey said. In 2005, Kitchen Witch opened on Toulouse Street in the French Quarter, where it stayed until moving in 2015, citing a dramatic increase in rent. Kitchen Witch Cookbooks moving from French Quarter The shop, known for its Tuesday night vegan taco gatherings, moved and reopened at 1452 N. Broad St., between Esplanade Avenue and Bayou Road, in late 2015. The lease ends in September, but the owners are unsure how long they will remain open. The vinyl records that they sell are scheduled to be picked up in a couple of weeks by the Louisiana Music Factory. The shop began with LaMancusas collection of about 5,000 cookbooks. On the Facebook page, he wrote: We will be here for a while yet (not sure of exact closing date yet) and I will always have the shops Facebook page active to engage with promoting local small biz and our spices and to stay in touch." The shop has received notice in national media, including most recently on Forbes.com and Publishers Weekly. Come back to NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune for more on this topic. Two civilian members of the New Orleans Police Departments leadership team are leaving for Baltimore to work under former NOPD Superintendent Michael Harrison, officials in New Orleans announced Friday (March 15). Eric Melancon, currently NOPDs deputy chief of staff, will become chief of staff under Harrison, while the departments current deputy superintendent for compliance, Danny Murphy, will assume a similar role overseeing Baltimores efforts to comply with a federal consent decree. The move comes about a month after Harrisons first day as chief in Baltimore. The last day for both men is March 29, NOPD said in a news release, and both transfers are pending approval from officials in Baltimore. The progress NOPD has made since the implementation of the federal consent decree would not have been possible without Eric Melancon and Danny Murphy, NOPD Superintendent Shaun Ferguson said in the release. While we certainly dont want them to leave, we wish them well and thank them for all they have done. Melancon joined the NOPD in February 2017 in a transfer from former Mayor Mitch Landrieus staff, while Murphy was hired in May 2014. The release says Ferguson will look to within the department for replacements, to avoid any interruptions in its push to become fully compliant with a 2011 consent decree enacted in response to widespread civil rights violations at the NOPD. If you are one of the 66,700 people who accidentally received two state tax refunds this week, Louisiana will be trying to take that extra money back. Most of the nearly $26 million in errant tax refunds was directly deposited to bank accounts and debit cards. The state should be able to reverse those payments easily, without the resident who received the money having to do anything, Jacques Berry, spokesman for the Louisiana Division of Administration, said Friday (March 15). If the money is no longer in the account or on the debit card of the person who received it, the taxpayer will not be off the hook, however. That will trigger the Louisiana Department of Revenue to send out a letter outlining repayment instructions. Berry said the debt repayment process will be similar to the one used for people who dont pay their taxes. It could include penalties and interest. Louisiana working to recover $26M in improper tax refunds If someone has used their tax refund to secure a loan from their tax preparer, the state will seek to get the double refund money from the tax preparer directly, and not from the resident who took the loan, Berry said. The double tax refund payments occurred Wednesday and resulted from a computer error. Ten trumpet students at University of Louisiana at Monroe are volunteering to play taps at veterans funeral services, Stars and Stripes reports. Talons for Taps is its name because the universitys mascot is the Warhawk, a nod to the World War II-era Curtiss P-40 Warhawk airplane. All the students are members of the ULM Trumpet Studio. A lot of people get a recording, and play it over a speaker. It means something because its the song. But when you have an actual person with the horn ... and you hear the horn ring over the fields, it takes the breath out of your chest, Kody Jernigan, a music education major at the University of Louisiana in Monroe, told Stars and Stripes. Congress passed a law in 1999 allowing a recording if no brass player was available to play at a veterans funeral, the newspaper reported. Read the full report here. Facebook and its subsidiaries suffered a temporary outage of services yesterday leading to inconvenience for users and advertisers alike. The company clarified that the outage was a result of a server configuration change and is not a cyber attack. The downtime resulted in more than 3 million new signups for Telegram with CEO Durov advocating the service's focus on privacy and unlimited space for everyone. 4 Reviews , News , CPU , GPU , Articles , Columns , Other "or" search relation. 3D Printing , 5G , Accessory , AI , Alder Lake , AMD , Android , Apple , ARM , Audio , Business , Camera , Cannon Lake , Cezanne (Zen 3) , Charts , Chinese Tech , Chromebook , Coffee Lake , Comet Lake , Console , Convertible / 2-in-1 , Cryptocurrency , Cyberlaw , Deal , Desktop , E-Mobility , Education , Exclusive , Fail , Foldable , Gadget , Galaxy Note , Galaxy S , Gamecheck , Gaming , Geforce , Google Pixel , GPU , How To , Human 2.0 , Ice Lake , Intel Evo / Project Athena , Internet of Things (IoT) , iOS , iPad Pro , iPhone , Jasper Lake , Lakefield , Laptop , Launch , Linux / Unix , Lucienne (Zen 2) , MacBook , Mini PC , Monitor , MSI , OnePlus , Opinion , Phablet , Radeon , Renoir , Review Snippet , Rocket Lake , Rumor , Ryzen (Zen) , Science , Security , Single-Board Computer (SBC) , Smart Home , Smartphone , Smartwatch , Software , Storage , Tablet , ThinkPad , Thunderbolt , Tiger Lake , Touchscreen , Ultrabook , Virtual Reality (VR) / Augmented Reality (AR) , Wearable , Windows , Workstation , XPS , Zen 3 (Vermeer) Ticker Facebook suffered the worst outage since inception yesterday affecting users across the platform and other services including WhatsApp, Messenger, and Instagram. Users reported not being able to post, comment, like, or text using their accounts. The Menlo Park-giant confirmed on Twitter that it was not a cyber attack as some speculated but was due a 'server configuration change'. Yesterday, as a result of a server configuration change, many people had trouble accessing our apps and services. Weve now resolved the issues and our systems are recovering. Were very sorry for the inconvenience and appreciate everyones patience." User's may be glad with Facebook's official response but businesses that run their ad campaigns on the platform could have had a significant loss of exposure. In case you are not aware, Facebook controls 22 percent of the digital advertising market and makes an estimated US$90 million a day of advertising revenue so yesterday's downtime will definitely have significant ramifications. Apparently, the outage proved to be a blessing for some businesses. Telegram CEO Pavel Durov claimed that in the last 24 hours, 3 million users have signed up for Telegram. He said, I see 3 million new users signed up for Telegram within the last 24 hours. Good. We have true privacy and unlimited space for everyone." Although Durov doesn't take Facebook's name explicitly, his post can be seen as a cheeky snub at the massive social network. Last year, Telegram stated that it had crossed the 200 million monthly active users mark despite restrictions in markets such as Russia, China, and Iran. Facebook is yet to officially comment on the impact of the issue but Bloomberg reports that Facebook is still assessing the overall situation and is open to the "possibility of refunds for advertisers". The Huawei P30 and P30 Pro will be launched on March 26, and while the devices' selling points remain photography, both will still feature top of the line displaysin the form of Samsung-made OLED panels. 4 Reviews , News , CPU , GPU , Articles , Columns , Other "or" search relation. 3D Printing , 5G , Accessory , AI , Alder Lake , AMD , Android , Apple , ARM , Audio , Business , Camera , Cannon Lake , Cezanne (Zen 3) , Charts , Chinese Tech , Chromebook , Coffee Lake , Comet Lake , Console , Convertible / 2-in-1 , Cryptocurrency , Cyberlaw , Deal , Desktop , E-Mobility , Education , Exclusive , Fail , Foldable , Gadget , Galaxy Note , Galaxy S , Gamecheck , Gaming , Geforce , Google Pixel , GPU , How To , Human 2.0 , Ice Lake , Intel Evo / Project Athena , Internet of Things (IoT) , iOS , iPad Pro , iPhone , Jasper Lake , Lakefield , Laptop , Launch , Linux / Unix , Lucienne (Zen 2) , MacBook , Mini PC , Monitor , MSI , OnePlus , Opinion , Phablet , Radeon , Renoir , Review Snippet , Rocket Lake , Rumor , Ryzen (Zen) , Science , Security , Single-Board Computer (SBC) , Smart Home , Smartphone , Smartwatch , Software , Storage , Tablet , ThinkPad , Thunderbolt , Tiger Lake , Touchscreen , Ultrabook , Virtual Reality (VR) / Augmented Reality (AR) , Wearable , Windows , Workstation , XPS , Zen 3 (Vermeer) Ticker Huawei is set to unveil its first pair of flagships for the year later this month. The company, at an event in Paris, will launch the P30 and P30 Pro, the direct successors to the incredibly successful P20 and P20 Pro that were released last year. While photography will be the main focus of the devices, it would appear that Huawei isnt taking any prisoners in other departments either. According to a new report, the P30 and P30 Pro will feature OLED displays made by Samsung. Huawei has generally ignored Samsung when shopping for display hardware but the company, over the past year, has developed the foundations of a business partnership with its rivals. The P20 Pro featured Samsung-made OLED panels, and so did the Mate 20 X. Of course, Huawei has also preferred to source for its OLED panels from BOE and, at times, LGas seen on the Mate 10 Pro and Mate 20 Pro. In any case, Samsungs OLEDs are the best in the business, and most other OEMsXiaomi and Apple, for exampleuse Samsung panels on their flagships. March 15, 2019 Arlene Jackson , 970-858-3617 x363 Alicia Lafever , 970-858-3617 x364 Fruita, CO The weather is warming and it is a perfect time to take a walk at Colorado National Monument. Two special programs will be offered in the next two weeks. Wind, Water and Words: A Poetry Seminar and Workshop March 21, 2019 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. Join Brian Palmer for this two-hour Walk and Write workshop in recognition of UNESCOs World Poetry Day. We will head out into the field to write poems about the elements of the Colorado National Monument that make it unique and vital. Well discuss the idea that as nature constantly changes the planet and is, in turn, changed by planetary life, our human approach and response to nature also changes. It is a deeply cultural issue to explore, consider, and record with craft and feeling our treasured relationship with the natural world, as culture itself is created by language, art, and action. This seminar will frame an informal definition of poetry and cover a few poetic meaning and structural terms such as metaphor, imagery, meter, and rhyme. We will meet at the Visitor Center to get things started. Then we'll walk an easy mile or so, with time given for journaling and drafting some poetry. After the walk, well read some of our poems (for those who want to participate) at the amphitheater at the Saddlehorn Campground. Registration is required. 15 participants max Family Bird Hike March 24, 2019 11:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. It is early spring and migratory birds are beginning to arrive in Western Colorado! Join Cary Atwood, local teacher and bird enthusiast for a family friendly walk exploring the birds of Devils Kitchen and lower No Thoroughfare Canyon. During this two hour walk-about, families will learn about bird identification, habitats and some of the special birds who live and nest in the Monument. Recommended ages: 6-12 year-olds and parents. Binoculars and Bird Bingo cards will be available to help kids identify what we discover. Limit: 15 children, plus parents. Please register for this event. Registration for either event can be made by calling the staff at the visitor center at 970-858-3617 x360. Both events are free, however, regular entrance fees apply. Save the dates for our April programs, more information to follow. April 5 - Star Party with Western Colorado Astronomy Club April 6 CCC Program and Photo Exhibit April 13 Flutes April 20 Junior Ranger Day All programs are presented with the support of Colorado National Monument Association. Spring hours are now in effect at Colorado National Monument. The visitor center is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. For additional information please visit www.nps.gov/colm or call 970-858-3617, ext. 360. -www.nps.gov- About the National Park Service: More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America's 418 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Visit us at www.nps.gov, on Facebook www.facebook.com/nationalparkservice, Twitter www.twitter.com/natlparkservice, and YouTube www.youtube.com/nationalparkservice. Drakesbad Lodge and Meadow NPS photo March 13, 2019 Contact: Michael McGraw, 530-595-6186 Lassen Volcanic National Park Superintendent Jim Richardson invites public comment for a 30-day public scoping period of the Replacement of Drakesbad Wastewater Disposal Project. Public comments received during the public scoping period will help identify issues, concerns, and other alternatives to evaluate in an environmental assessment of the project.The Drakesbad Guest Ranch is located at the end of the Warner Valley Road in the Warner Valley, about 45 miles outside of Chester, CA, in the south east portion of the park. The Drakesbad Guest Ranch is part of the Drakesbad Guest Ranch Historic District, and the facilities include a lodge, dining hall, cabins, duplex units, bath house, for the thermal pool, employee housing, laundry facilities, and public restrooms. They are operated by a concession on a seasonal basis, closing for the winter.At Drakesbad, the wastewater system consists of a gravity sewer collection to a septic tank and effluent pump station that delivers wastewater up to a disposal field. During the summer of 2017, wastewater was seen surfacing on the ground indicating a failure of the leach field. Without a functioning wastewater system, the area would be unsuitable for visitor use and the existing facilities would need to be closed.To address these and other issues, the environmental assessment considers two alternatives. The No Action alternative proposes to continue existing management of the Drakesbad wastewater system. Alternative 2, proposes to construct a new wastewater disposal field at Drakesbad.Because public participation is very important to the success of the project, the National Park Service (NPS) encourages your input and comment during the scoping period. Comments will be accepted through April 11, 2019. Comments can be submitted online by visiting http://parkplanning.nps.gov/ DrakesbadSepticSystem , the website for the NPSs Planning Environment and Public Comment (PEPC) system. The NPS prefers comments to be submitted in writing on the same site.However, comments may also be sent to:Superintendent, Lassen Volcanic National Park, P.O. Box 100, Mineral, California 96063Commenters should be aware that their entire comment including personal identifying information may be made publicly available at any time. While commenters can ask that their personal identifying information be withheld from public review, the National Park Service cannot guarantee that this will be possible.For more information, please visit nps.gov/lavo ; contact the park at (530) 595-4480 or e-mail us ; or find us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, or Flickr as LassenNPS.The National Park Service cares for special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage. Date: March 15, 2019 Contact: Peter Christian Anchorage, AK Visitation to national parks in Alaska exceeded 2.9 million recreation visits for 2018, the highest number of visits ever recorded. Visitation to national parks nationwide exceeded 300 million visits for the fourth consecutive year. Alaska has some of the most extraordinary landscapes in all of North America, and visitor's come for a once in a life time experience, said Alaska Regional Director, Bert Frost. With 2.9 million visits in 2018, it is clear that national park areas continue to be an important economic driver for the state. Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park saw the largest increase hosting over 100,000 more visits in 2018 than the prior year. Kenai Fjords National Park also saw a large increase in visitation. In all, ten park units in Alaska experienced an increase in visitation. Later this spring, the National Park Service will issue its annual economic benefits report detailing the cumulative benefit visitor spending had on the state economy in 2018. For an in depth look at 2018 visitation including individual park figures, please visit the NPS Social Science website. www.nps.gov/AK Visit us at www.nps.gov/AK, on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlaskaNPS, Twitter www.twitter.com/AlaskaNPS, and Instagram, www.instagram.com/alaskanps/ Dawn Barry Courtesy Girl Scouts San Diego will honor Solana Beach resident Dawn Barry, during its Cool Women of 2019 luncheon and ceremony on Friday, March 29, noon-1:30 p.m. at the Kona Kai Resort. Proceeds from the 19th annual event will support programs that help girls use their voices, develop a strong sense of self, step outside their comfort zones, and build resilience. Barry is president and co-founder of LunaPBC, which manages LunaDNA, the first health and DNA research platform owned by its community of data donors. In exchange for sharing their health data, LunaDNA members receive shares of ownership in the platform. Barry chairs the board of the Alzheimers Association San Diego/Imperial Chapter. Her two daughters are Girl Scouts. She is one of five members of the Cool Women Class of 2019. The honorees were selected for the personal and professional achievements that make them consummate role models for girls. Girl Scouts is the best place for girls, wholly devoted to preparing them for a lifetime of leadership, from the wilderness to the boardroom, said Girl Scouts San Diego CEO Carol M. Dedrich. By shining a spotlight on these extraordinary Cool Women, we are inspiring todays Girl Scouts to reach their own potential. Sandra Maas Courtesy KUSI News Anchor Sandra Maas, a resident of Carmel Valley, will serve as emcee of the event. The award-winning journalist has been informing and entertaining San Diegans as a television and radio personality since 1990. She currently co-anchors KUSIs top-rated weekday evening newscasts. Maas is also known for her past work at KFMB TV and radio, and STAR 94.1. Her reports on everything from the AIDS epidemic to cancer breakthroughs have been recognized nationally and broadcast around the world. Active in the community, Maas serves on several boards, and volunteers for a wide range of charitable organizations. Girl Scouts San Diego will also present its 2019 Emerging Leader Girl Scouts. The 43 teens were selected for their potential and the outstanding achievements that are already making the world a better place. A morning session will provide them with an opportunity to hear about careers, education pathways, and overcoming challenges from a group of mentors, including Cool Women and other successful female executives and community leaders. During the luncheon, Emerging Leaders Candace Dobias, Anna Ensberg, Alina Ho, Serena Ingram, and Destiny Wilcox will each introduce a Cool Women, using information gained during a one-on-one meeting with that honoree. Ensberg will introduce Barry. The night after Beatrice Ranas New York debut, on the same stage (Zankel Hall), the fun was doubled in a fascinating program of exciting works for two pianos, performed by the formidable Kirill Gerstein, who can play anything, and Thomas Ades, an eminent composer who is also accomplished pianist. Recently they were with the Boston Symphony Orchestra for the premiere of Mr. Adess Piano Concerto, written for Mr. Gerstein. (They bring that work to Carnegie Hall on Wednesday.) At Zankel, they began with Debussys En Blanc et Noir, a late work, from 1915, which in this starkly beautiful and steely performance seemed not far removed from the shock-and-awe radicalism of Stravinskys The Rite of Spring (1913). Turning to Stravinsky, they played Shostakovichs rarely-heard arrangement of the Symphony of Psalms. With the chorus part (a setting of psalm texts) divided between the pianos and without the distraction, so to speak, of the scores dark, percussive orchestral sonorities the modernist daring of Stravinskys harmonic language came through stunningly. The program also included Mr. Adess stream-of-consciousness Concert Paraphrase from his opera Powder Her Face, and ended with an account of Ravels La Valse that had this showpiece sounding dangerous. Dont believe me? Here they are playing it in Paris in 2016. ANTHONY TOMMASINI HARLAN, Ky. I have lived in the Appalachian coal fields for 30 years, working as a writer and an educator, and I have often been asked to explain my region. Appalachia is a huge, diverse part of the country, including some or all of 13 states and 25 million people, but around me there is high unemployment, poverty and dependence on government subsidies. People ask me how an overwhelming majority of people in a community such as mine could vote for Donald Trump. It is a tough question. Appalachia has been going through rapid, often painful changes for the past hundred years, and our communities have been working hard to rebuild our economies. Over the past decade, many of us have put aside partisan politics to work together to do whats best for the places we live in, the places we love. But the 2016 election has strained the bonds weve forged and has led to deep reflection and conversation within the region. When I arrived in Appalachia in 1989, America relied on coal for a third of its electricity. Through the early 2000s, coal trucks filled the highways and winding two-lane roads around my home. The state reaped millions in taxes on the industry. It was such a big, valuable business that if a chunk of coal flew off a truck and cracked a windshield, the state replaced the windshield, no questions asked. Earlier in the century, the coal companies and in some places, the miners union maintained the infrastructure of coal mining communities. That meant that when coal employment began to collapse in the 1960s, everything took a hit: health care, roads, housing. I want to show up everywhere for everyone, he told the Iowans. When ORourke ran for the Senate in Texas he made news by visiting all 254 counties, often just driving himself. There are 99 counties in Iowa, and some ambitious candidates have been known to hit every single one. Lets see how it goes. Just warning him that there are 3,142 counties in the United States and expectations may rise. Why do you think hes getting so much attention? Certainly none of the announced women candidates are creating this much stir. Elizabeth Warren has been shoving out policy positions. Kamala Harris has been campaigning like crazy. Warren, Harris, Kirsten Gillibrand and Amy Klobuchar are all acting senators. ORourke is a former member of the House of Representatives who lost a race to Ted Cruz, one of the least appealing human beings on the face of the earth. But theres just something about Beto that makes him stand apart. Hate to think its being a cute white guy who can skateboard. ORourkes visit to Keokuk was his first time ever in the state, where candidates are expected to show up at lots and lots of town halls to talk with the voters, many of whom have been in this business way, way longer than any of the politicians theyre vetting. First came a woman who wanted to know what hed do about the high cost of prescription drugs. So, really great question, ORourke responded. The rest of the answer was basically that we needed guaranteed high quality health care for everyone. And that however that worked out it would be super-expensive, but still worth it. Another voter wanted to know why teachers have to take money out of their own pockets to buy supplies. This is an issue that always comes up a lot, in part because there are no more diligent voters than teachers, and you hardly ever see a town hall meeting that doesnt have a lot of them in the audience. They keep participating, but theyre still buying the supplies with their own money. Yes, its a great question, said ORourke. He called for better wages for everybody who worked at schools, and an effort to hold one another accountable. First, heres the good news on Brexit. The Malthouse Compromise is dead. Britain has signed a post-Brexit free trade agreement with Fiji and Papua New Guinea. The irritating phrase meaningful vote has lost all meaning. Prime Minister Theresa May, who increasingly resembles one of those characters that just wont die in a TV series, is running out of time to pop up again with her so-called deal. The bad news is were only in Act IV, if that. This British disaster has legs. Its chaos out there with two weeks to go until the March 29 deadline for Britain to leave the European Union. This is what happens when English public school boys, nostalgic for Empire, dream up a scheme for the resurrection of British glory based on foisting every little-England frustration on their neighbors across the Channel who started or lost the war. Delusion is the mother of debacle. Jon Snow, the Channel 4 presenter, lost it with the health secretary Matt Hancock as he tried to express some pious hope. Snow pronounced Britain completely asunder. He said that nobody in the country knows whats going on, and that Hancock knew nothing. His verdict on Britain after a week of parliamentary debate that went some way toward indicating what Britain doesnt want but offered no clue as to what Britain does want: We are a laughingstock. And Abraham said, Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak yet but this once: Peradventure ten shall be found there. And he said, I will not destroy it for tens sake. In the Senate this week, the Lord found twelve. Alas, it was 12 of 53. Less than a quarter of the G.O.P. caucus was prepared to block a national-emergency declaration most of them know violates the separation of powers, tramples on their legislative prerogatives, makes a mockery of long-held conservative principles, and establishes a political precedent they will come to regret bitterly and soon. Nor will it solve the border problem its ostensibly intended to address, much less build anything except a small section of Donald Trumps fantasy wall. Thomas Mores great line to Richard Rich from A Man For All Seasons may be shopworn, but its apt: It profits a man nothing to give his soul for the whole world . . . but for Wales? In this weeks drama theres more than one perjurious Rich. But special mentions must be made of Nebraskas Ben Sasse and North Carolinas Thom Tillis. Both of them previously opposed the emergency declaration. Both are up for renomination and re-election next year. And both found ways to vote something other than their consciences. They escaped death and torture in Syria, to come to New Zealand, and be killed here. ALI AKIL, an official of Syrian Solidarity New Zealand, a group that describes itself as a nongovernmental organization of Syrians and their supporters in New Zealand, on the victims of the mosque attacks in Christchurch. But his willingness to stand behind the president, coupled with the assault on his beliefs by Democratic candidates, has only further highlighted a key truth about Mr. Pence: He is less a good cop than he is a good soldier. Its possibly the case that just because the show has become so mesmerizing, there hasnt been enough attention for there to be scrutiny on him and what he represents, Mr. Buttigieg said. But theres a nontrivial chance of Pence becoming the president, any day, and we should understand what were getting there. Mr. Buttigieg said that Mr. Pence was a politician whose views are very much out of the mainstream. He ticked off issues like gay marriage (Mr. Pence has said he is opposed to it); climate change (Mr. Pence has said the causes of it remain to be seen); and evolution (Mr. Pence has said God created heaven and earth) as policy issues on which the vice president needed to clarify his positions. Mr. Pence declined to comment publicly, but a senior administration official familiar with his thinking said he does not plan to take the bait. He just lets the criticism roll off, said that official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity so as to not disclose private conversations. But Mr. Biden, who is seen in the White House as Mr. Trumps most formidable potential 2020 challenger, earned a public rebuke from the vice president. Well, look, theyve got an awfully big field, Mr. Pence said on Thursday in an appearance on Fox & Friends, adding that the way Joe Biden caved in to liberal activists after making a kind comment for me is evidence of the pressure that all of their candidates are going to face. Still, some observers of the race say the scrutiny of Mr. Pence may continue. Im surprised he hasnt been in the middle of it more, said Tim Miller, a longtime Republican strategist and a Never Trumper. Hes skillfully avoided, to a certain degree, the amount of association he should have with Trump. WASHINGTON Oleg V. Deripaska, a Russian oligarch with close ties to the Kremlin, sued the United States government on Friday, demanding it lift sanctions that he claimed have cost him billions of dollars, made him radioactive in international business circles and exposed him to criminal investigation and asset confiscation in Russia. In a lawsuit filed in United States District Court in Washington, Mr. Deripaska said that the sanctions, leveled in April by the Treasury Department, should be struck down because they deprived him of due process and relied on unproven smears that fell outside the sanctions program. The lawsuit called Mr. Deripaska the latest victim of this countrys political infighting and ongoing reaction to Russias purported interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential elections, and asserted that the general hysteria surrounding Deripaska prevents him from having a meaningful opportunity to challenge the sanctions through the normal channels for doing so. The sanctions were imposed in retaliation for a range of malign activity around the globe by Russia, including its election interference and its incursions into neighboring Ukraine, Steven Mnuchin, the Treasury secretary, said at the time. A United States Navy veteran held in Iran since July while visiting an Iranian girlfriend has been sentenced to 10 years in prison on charges that he insulted the countrys top leader and posted a private photograph on social media, his familys lawyer said Friday. The lawyer, Mark Zaid, said the family had been informed earlier this week by the State Department of the sentencing of the veteran, Michael R. White, 46, of Imperial City, Calif. The information was conveyed to the State Department by Swiss diplomats who represent American interests in Iran, Mr. Zaid said in a telephone interview. He said Mr. White, who has been incarcerated in the northeast city of Mashhad since his arrest eight months ago, has twice been granted Swiss consular visits. Mr. White served in the Navy for 13 years and is the first American imprisoned in Iran since President Trump took office more than two years ago. michael barbaro From The New York Times, Im Michael Barbaro. This is The Daily. Today: As Boeing developed a new line of passenger jets, it was determined to avoid costly training for pilots. Then, two of those jets crashed. Its Tuesday, March 19. natalie kitroeff The global aerospace business is essentially a duopoly. There are two big companies. Theres Boeing, which is American-owned, and theres Airbus, a European rival. michael barbaro Natalie Kitroeff is a business reporter at The Times. natalie kitroeff These two are always competing with each other. They are competing on every single aspect of an airplane. And theyre often competing for the same customers. [music] natalie kitroeff So in late 2010 archived recording Were not redesigning the A320. Its pretty damn good just the way it is. What were doing is offering new, more fuel-efficient engines on todays airplane. natalie kitroeff Airbus announces that it is offering a new, fuel-efficient version of its best-selling A320 plane. archived recording Well, an A320neo natalie kitroeff Its going to be the A320neo. archived recording Its a new engine option offered on todays A320 family of aircraft. And now theyre being offered with new, more fuel-efficient engines. Were putting our money on re-engining the worlds best-selling single-aisle aircraft. natalie kitroeff This amounts to essentially a frontal assault for Boeing. Fuel savings mean that airlines are saving on costs. And if Airbus is going to offer an option that is going to save airlines money, Boeing better will come up with its own alternative in order to compete in this cutthroat environment, where they have one main rival. michael barbaro So what does Boeing do in response to its biggest and most important rival coming up with this fuel-efficient jetliner? natalie kitroeff Boeing scrambles to respond quickly. archived recording [MUSIC] We are making a decision to invest in the 737 family. natalie kitroeff And within months, the company comes up with an upgrade of its own. archived recording Max efficiency, which leads to profitability, max reliability, and to the flying public, max passenger appeal. natalie kitroeff Its going to be a fuel-efficient version of their 737 workhorse. It is going to have bigger engines. And its going to save airlines money on this fuel. archived recording The best single-aisle airplane in the world. [MUSIC] natalie kitroeff And theyre going to call it the 737 Max. And one of the main goals of this engineering process is to keep this new plane as similar to its predecessor as possible. michael barbaro Why? natalie kitroeff Part of the reason is that Boeing is competing with Airbus. And theyre competing with them on every single cost item. And a plane is not just metal and technology. Its also what it costs to operate the aircraft and to train pilots to fly it. michael barbaro Hm. natalie kitroeff If the 737 Max turned out to be so different from its predecessor that it required training on a flight simulator, one of these giant machines where you have a cockpit and it mimics the experience of flying the plane, it would cost airlines tens of millions of dollars over the life of an aircraft. Its incredibly expensive. So if Boeing were to say, we have this beautiful new jet, but its going to require twice the amount of training that the Airbus model requires, the executives might pause on that. So as the company is manufacturing this plane, it wants to find ways to make it fly exactly the way that its predecessors did. michael barbaro So that there is not a need for training. natalie kitroeff Exactly. And theres a little bit of a problem. [music] natalie kitroeff There is something that is fundamentally different about this plane. Its engines are bigger, and those engines need to be mounted farther forward on the wings. And that changes the aerodynamics of the plane. So the placement of those engines makes the nose of the plane push upward in certain circumstances. And that can lead to a stall, which is a dangerous situation. So Boeing has to come up with a solution to make the plane act the way its predecessor did and to counteract that force. So what it does is it comes up with this system, this software. michael barbaro And what does the new system do? natalie kitroeff The new system automatically corrects for that upward motion of the nose. And it pushes the nose down automatically. And its supposed to be working in the background, in a way that pilots dont even notice, correcting for an issue that was not in the prior model of this plane. And its supposed to be something that is just keeping the pilot in a position where he or she feels as though the plane is flying in the same exact way under the same conditions that the prior model did. michael barbaro So Boeing thinks even though the engines are different, that they have developed a system that makes the engines operate essentially the same way the old 737 did. And from a pilots point of view, therefore, there would be no need for new training? natalie kitroeff Yes. Boeing believed there was no need for extra training for pilots who had flown the previous model. And the Federal Aviation Administration agreed. In March 2017, the F.A.A. certified the plane. It did not require flight simulator training for pilots who had flown the prior model. And regulators around the world followed suit. Two months later, Boeing shipped out its first 737 Max out of Seattle. And the company decided that it does not need to fully inform pilots that this new software even exists. michael barbaro Hmm. So they dont even tell the pilots. They think it is so unimportant to the operation of the plane from the experience of a pilot that they dont even need to know? natalie kitroeff Yes. [music] michael barbaro So what happens next? This plane is certified, on the market. What happens? archived recording Well, its wheels up for Boeings new 737 Max. natalie kitroeff Orders come pouring in from across the globe. archived recording Boeing says the Max 8 is the companys fastest-selling plane in its history, with nearly 4,700 orders for more than 100 customers across the world. natalie kitroeff And carriers make this the best-selling Boeing jet ever. archived recording 100 737 Maxes expected to be sold to AerCap. Thats a lessor from the Netherlands. Also, Korean Airlines expected to order 30 of those. natalie kitroeff Pilots love it. archived recording It flew beautifully. Its engines were extremely quiet. natalie kitroeff It is a hit. archived recording 1 Still, take a look at shares of Boeing, which archived recording 2 Are up! And up today! natalie kitroeff Theyre enjoying a ton of success in the stock market. archived recording 14 Logged orders or commitments for almost 400 aircraft, with a total sticker price of more than $37 billion. natalie kitroeff Investors love them, customers love them until October 29, 2018, when Lion Air Flight 610, a 737 Max carrying 189 people, takes off and, 12 minutes later, crashes into the Java Sea. archived recording Three days after Lion Air Flight JT610 mysteriously disappeared before plummeting into the sea, there may be hope for answers. michael barbaro What do we learn about what went wrong on that flight? archived recording Military personnel have found one of the black boxes. natalie kitroeff So a picture begins to emerge of this flight that suggests that the pilot may be fighting with that system. archived recording Flight data shows the on-board computers were pushing the planes nose down. Then the pilots aimed the nose higher. That happened 26 times, with the crew never following procedures to correct the problem. natalie kitroeff So while the software is pushing the nose down, the pilot is trying to push it back up over and over and over again, multiple times. That is the picture that begins to emerge. But we do not have full conclusive evidence yet. michael barbaro So it seems like the pilots on this flight are fighting a flight control system, a self-correcting one thats supposed to keep the nose from going up, that they dont even know exists, right? natalie kitroeff Thats exactly right. And what experts believe was happening was that this system was taking in a faulty sensor reading. So it was responding to bad data. And that is why it kept triggering over and over and over again, despite the pilots best efforts to get the plane back on course. michael barbaro And eventually those pilots lose their battle against the system. natalie kitroeff Eventually, the plane plunges into the sea, killing all 189 people on board. [music] michael barbaro What, Natalie, is the reaction among the airlines that have bought this line of planes to this emerging realization that Boeing hadnt revealed what turned out to be this important piece of information, the existence of this system that may likely have contributed to this crash? natalie kitroeff Pilots are furious livid, in fact that they have not been informed that this thing even exists. So they have these meetings, in which they told Boeing officials that this was a breach of trust and that it was disrespectful. michael barbaro So I have to assume that these angry pilots, in addition to just wanting to be sure everyone knows about this system, are demanding training so that they can properly respond to this system. natalie kitroeff No, theyre not. The F.A.A., Boeing, nobody is recommending more training on this system. michael barbaro Why not? natalie kitroeff The American pilots that Ive talked to, they believe that because theyve been informed about the system, now that they know how it works, they are able to safely fly this plane. They know how to deal with this software if it becomes an issue on their flights. And they feel confident about flying the plane. This is a confidence thats, in part, based on statistics and experience. There has been only one fatality on U.S. airlines in the last decade. Boeing has an enviable safety record. In many ways, they had good reason to be confident. And theyre also promised a fix to the software that pushes the nose down. Thats going to come within the next several weeks. They will be informed of it. And they feel confident that that is enough. michael barbaro O.K., so after this Lion Air crash, the only thing that changes is that Boeing vows to fix the system. But no additional training is ordered for any pilot anywhere. And the 737 Max planes are free to keep flying? natalie kitroeff Yes. archived recording 1 A jet has crashed, and the tragedy is being felt around the world. archived recording 2 U.S. aviation investigators and a technical team from Boeing are headed to Ethiopia tonight. Thats where a new 737 Max 8 jetliner crashed today, minutes after taking off from Addis Ababa. archived recording 3 Killing everyone on board, Flight 302 was en route to Nairobi, Kenya, when it crashed in the town of Bishoftu just six minutes after takeoff. The plane was carrying 149 passengers and 8 crew members. natalie kitroeff Immediately, it becomes apparent that there are some similarities between this flight and the Lion Air crash. archived recording 1 Preliminary data shows a, quote, clear similarity to the Lion Air Max 8 crash off Indonesia in October. archived recording 2 Both planes were Boeing 737 Max 8 aircrafts. archived recording 3 What we now understand is what people had suspected, that there are certain similarities between the Lion Air crash and the Ethiopian crash earlier this month. michael barbaro What are those similarities? natalie kitroeff So the pilot of the Ethiopian Airlines flight reported flight control problems. So that was a first clue. The plane is also moving in the same way that the Lion Air plane was, up and down. The speeds are changing rapidly, suggesting that the pilot may have been fighting with this system, again, with the pilot trying to pull the nose up, and the system pushing it down. Then there is physical evidence recovered at the site of the crash that seems to suggest that the nose was being pitched down. We dont know why. But again, it all points to this system being involved, potentially contributing to another tragedy. michael barbaro And so what is the reaction this time, after the second crash of a 737 Max? natalie kitroeff Boeing stands firm behind the plane. And American carriers are right there with them. But archived recording China has grounded its entire Boeing 737 Max fleet. natalie kitroeff regulators around the world seem a little less confident. The Chinese and Indonesians quickly ground the 737 Max. archived recording More countries following Chinas lead and grounding the Boeing 737 Max 8 jet. natalie kitroeff Once the Europeans follow archived recording European Aviation Safety Agency, they have banned flights of the 737 Max series, adding to similar groundings by China, Indonesia, Australia, Malaysia, the U.K., Singapore, New Zealand, France, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Netherlands, Turkey. I could go on. natalie kitroeff American regulators are all of a sudden under immense pressure for the F.A.A. to ground these planes. archived recording (donald trump) Boeing is an incredible company. They are working very, very hard right now. And hopefully, theyll very quickly come up with the answer. But until they do, the planes are grounded. michael barbaro All of this looks very bad for Boeing, obviously. And it seems to stem from this original motivation, as you described it, to avoid classifying this new energy-efficient plane that would compete against Airbuses as fundamentally different from older models of the 737 that would require expensive training of the pilots, even though a very crucial part of the plane was different. natalie kitroeff Thats right. This motivation to keep this plane as similar as possible to its predecessor permeated the entire engineering process. Remember, this is how Boeing needs to compete with Airbus. Its also raising questions about the entire process for certifying aircraft in the United States. There is renewed scrutiny on the closeness between the F.A.A. and Boeing. The F.A.A. and Boeing work together to certify planes. The F.A.A. actually relies heavily on Boeing employees to help certify its aircraft. michael barbaro And is that basically industry practice? Companies that make these planes work with the Federal Aviation Administration on the approval process? natalie kitroeff Thats exactly right. michael barbaro Hmm. natalie kitroeff I mean, folks were talking about this, right? But nobody was kind of raising red flags. I mean, it wasnt like people were up in arms about the way that this certification system works. But now theres been two crashes of the same model in less than five months. And were hearing more and more from regulators and former regulators about how this close relationship may be too cozy. michael barbaro Natalie, what do we know about the role that Boeings employees played specifically in the certification of the Boeing 737 Max? natalie kitroeff We know that Boeing plays a critical role in helping to certify its aircraft. And we are learning more and more about the role that it played in the case of the 737 Max. The Seattle Times recently reported that not only was the F.A.A. relying heavily on Boeing in this case, but that Boeing itself was turning out an analysis that was downplaying the potential risks of a software system that is now at issue after these two crashes. michael barbaro Hmm. natalie kitroeff The F.A.A., like any federal agency, has a limited budget. And theres a reason why it would want to rely on the people who are most informed about the inner workings of increasingly complex aircraft in order to determine whether that plane is airworthy. You can see why you would need a relationship, and one where there is a lot of information-sharing, right? Because the one side cant employ as many people as Boeing does. And the other side has a ton of expertise. But is that relationship too close? michael barbaro Right. And there seems to be a lot of trust at the center of this system youre describing that allows Boeing to basically be like a co-regulator of itself. And the most important trust involved here seems to be that a business will always put safety above profits. And I guess the question here is whether in a system with that much trust, that balance could get out of whack, and safety might lose out to profits. And the only way we would know that is when theres a tragedy or two tragedies. natalie kitroeff Boeing doesnt want planes to crash. So their motivations are, in many ways, exactly aligned with their customers. But whats emerged after these two crashes I mean, you heard the pilots. They said this was a breach of trust. michael barbaro Right. natalie kitroeff I think a lot of people are feeling that right now, that feeling of questioning of this process. And this isnt to say anything about Boeings motivations. We are at the very beginning of investigating these two flights, and we do not want to rush to conclusions. But youre asking the questions that the people at the front line of this industry, the pilots, the crew, theyre asking that right now. How do we regain trust in Boeing? And how do we know for sure that we are being told everything we need to know in order to fly these planes? michael barbaro Weve been talking about trust, the trust that the F.A.A. had in Boeing, that the airlines, their pilots and crews had or didnt have in this plane. But Im wondering now about the trust that we, as the flying public, have in these planes. And its kind of hard to imagine wanting to fly on a 737 Max anytime soon. Lets say that the software gets fixed. And Boeing and the F.A.A., through their certification process, they all sign off on everything being safe. Why should we trust them after that? Why should we trust them, kind of, ever? natalie kitroeff I think that coming up with the software fix is manageable for Boeing, an industrial juggernaut that has dealt with these issues before. And youll remember, the 787 Dreamliner was grounded for three months in 2013, when it had battery fire problems. michael barbaro And that was a Boeing plane? natalie kitroeff Right, a Boeing plane. And we all fly on it. Its possible that people will be wary right now. But Boeing has the capacity to fix this thing and probably will. The bigger question is whether these two tragedies lead to a more wholesale transformation in the process for regulating the aircraft manufacturers in this country. What, if anything, is going to change in the process by which we determine, in the United States, that planes are safe to fly? [music] michael barbaro Natalie, thank you very much. natalie kitroeff Want this column in your inbox? Sign up here. You're a busy person, so here's your quick and breezy catch-up on the latest in tech and business news, plus what to know for the week ahead. Your Monday self will be better for it. MARCH 10-16 Whats Up? A Bumpy Descent Boeings brand-new fleet of 737 Max aircraft was grounded in over 40 countries after a deadly plane crash in Ethiopia last Sunday, the second 737 Max to go down in five months. Theres no hard evidence that the planes have anything wrong with them, but similarities between the two crashes caused widespread concern among aviation officials (and passengers) around the world. Boeing has promised a software fix and new training program for pilots by April, but it may take a lot longer to repair the damage to its reputation and its bottom line, considering the 737 Max was its best-selling jet ever. Losing Face Humans were forced to have actual conversations when Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp went dark for few hours on Wednesday. (The platforms, all owned by Facebook, were apparently suffering from a server issue.) But the company may not bounce back quite so fast when federal prosecutors start examining its business deals. Officials are conducting a criminal investigation into partnerships that Facebook struck with other big tech companies, namely, agreements that involved handing over its users personal information without their consent. Other signs of turmoil: Two of Facebooks top executives resigned on Thursday without giving explicit reasons. 52D: A terrific pun clue, Not go overboard, for riding the waves without a prop, like someone who BODYSURFS. I liked the visuals of this entry and its neighbor to the right, WIND FARMS. 95D: I imagine this is a true stumper for a lot of us, although I had my eureka moment a while after Id figured it out on the crosses. Its also a surprising debut Tupac has been in the puzzle many times but never by his full name or surname. Tupac SHAKUR, despite having been killed at the age of 25, had created so much content that his estate has indeed provided material for seven albums, so far, since his death. Todays Theme Ms. Maymudes and Mr. Chen have mixed up our library today, swapping the dust jackets on biographies and other books, creating appropriate but quirky new titles for notable life stories. There are eight biographical subjects referred to in the clues, five across and three down, including the momentous (Willie Mays, Archimedes), the mysterious (Amelia Earhart) and the marble (Venus de Milo). Lets take Venus at 92A as a first example. Arguably one of the most famous sculptures in the world, on permanent display at the Louvre and instantly recognizable by what she doesnt have, this tall Classical figure was originally discovered in 1820 on the Greek isle of Melos, in several pieces. Supposedly, her upper limbs were either never found, or deemed later fakes and left on the island when she was taken to France. So she bid adieu to more than her home she embodies the spirit of Ernest Hemingways title, at least: A FAREWELL TO ARMS. (As an aside, New Yorkers, there are three headless Venuses de Milo in Midtown, courtesy of Jim Dine. There may be more of these in other cities, and its always nice to notice street art.) O.K., lets do a character out of fiction: Ebenezer Scrooge from A Christmas Carol at 23A. Not a nice guy and the last mean old skinflint wed associate with a destructive-but-lovable Labrador retriever. Lo and behold, though, the ghost behind the triple haunting of Scrooge that turns him, er, a bit more lovable is Scrooges business partner Jacob Marley. So perhaps itd be more of an autobiography, if you follow me, but the answer here, vis a vis Scrooge, is MARLEY AND ME, the 2005 best-seller by John Grogan about a dog (who was named after Bob and not Jacob, unsurprisingly). Katherine Meifung Tsui and James Michael Dalphond were married March 14 at Boston City Hall. Maureen Feeney, a justice of the peace in Boston, officiated. On March 16, the couple took part in a celebration ceremony at the New England Aquarium, also in Boston. Mark Sherman, a friend of the bride and groom, led the ceremony. The couple met at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, from which they graduated, and where the groom received a masters degree in computer science, and the bride both a masters degree and Ph.D. in that subject. The bride, 36, is a user experience researcher at Toyota Research Institute in Cambridge, Mass. She works with older adults to explore how new technologies might assist them in everyday life. [What you need to know to start the day: Get New York Today in your inbox.] A 24-year-old Staten Island man who was taken into police custody on Saturday in connection with the fatal shooting of the reputed boss of the Gambino crime family faces murder charges, according to court records and officials. The brazen shooting of the boss, Francesco Cali, in front of his home in the Todt Hill section of Staten Island on Wednesday shocked residents and longtime observers of the Mafia alike, and fueled speculation that New York City was seeing the return of open mob conflict that last erupted decades ago. Several officials, however, said on Saturday that preliminary information suggested that the killing of Mr. Cali, 53, was not related to organized crime. One official cautioned that the inquiry was still in its early stages. The last time a high-ranking Mafia figure like Mr. Cali was murdered was in 1985, when the Gambino chief Paul Castellano was assassinated in front of a high-end Manhattan steakhouse on the orders of John J. Gotti. The hit led to Mr. Gottis ascent to the head of the Gambino organization and touched off years of instability and internecine conflict. The Good Friday Agreement of 1998 an instance when hope and history rhyme in the words of the poet Seamus Heaney ended the Troubles. Remarkably, it has held the peace, while essentially erasing the border between the Republic of Ireland and the swath of historic Ulster belonging to Britain. No one wants to put up guard stations and customs checks along the invisible 310-mile line separating prosperous Ireland, a member of the E.U., from the shakily peaceful six counties of the north, which would exit. And only the most hateful elements on both sides want a return of violence that is sure to come with a hard border. The solution? Its there in the not-so-fine print of the peace agreement. Should a majority of Northern Ireland residents desire to leave Britain, it is required to call for a vote of those people. That majority is fast approaching. What Prime Minister Theresa May of Britain calls our precious union is held together by 10 members of Parliament representing the old hatreds of North Ireland the Democratic Unionist Party. It was founded by Ian Paisley, a bigot with a Bible, who opposed the peace agreement and referred to Catholics as scum who multiply like vermin. Keefe quotes an English journalist as saying that the unionists are more British than the British, about whom the British care not at all. Paisley is no longer with us. Nor is most of the dark sentiment he stirred up. When the borders came down, so did many of the walls of religion and nationality. Catholics, long a persecuted minority, will soon be a majority in Northern Ireland if demographic trends continue. But the conflict is less about one Christian sect against another. Its more about how to thrive in an interconnected world. The Republic of Ireland is proudly progressive, led by an openly gay taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, who is of Irish and Indian heritage. After a series of scandals, the influence of the Catholic Church has greatly diminished. Last year, Ireland had the fastest-growing economy in Europe. Winners and losers are often sorted not by merit but by privilege (or subterfuge). And even the winners lose. Actually, all of us do, because through this overwrought culling, were teaching a generation of children values that stink. There are moral wages to the admissions mania, and we need to wrestle with those. At its worst, it corrodes the development of core aspects of young peoples ethical character, often fueling their self-interest, compromising their integrity, and depleting their capacity to either know themselves deeply or to authentically articulate their identity, reads a draft of a new report by the Harvard Graduate School of Educations Making Caring Common Project, which for the last few years has been a leading advocate for a less calculated and cutthroat process. Many young people become cynical both about a system that seems unfair and divorced from their interests, and about the adults who created it. I was given an exclusive advance copy of the report, which will be published on Monday. Although it was written before the bribery and fraud arrests, it almost seems to have anticipated them. And it articulates the concerns that many of us have long had about the road that kids frequently travel toward the countrys most venerated and selective schools: the plotting of every major and minor step in terms of how it will look on an application; the lavish expenditures, by affluent families, on a veritable pit crew of tutors and trainers and admissions strategists; the gross overselling of accomplishments; the parental micromanaging; the working of any conceivable angle and pulling of any reachable string s. It makes a particular plea to parents, who are focusing on the wrong things, with big consequences for their kids, said Richard Weissbourd, a renowned development psychologist who is the reports principal author. Theyre not encouraging curiosity, empathy, gratitude. Parents are trying to give their kids everything but theyre not giving them what counts, he told me. The report includes the important acknowledgment that only a fraction of American children are educated at the elite institutions in question or have any hope to be, and that the biggest problem in college admissions is that huge numbers of young people, especially low-income and first-generation students, struggle to access or simply cant afford college, or land in colleges that arent committed to their success. In fact, about two-thirds of Americans over 24 never started or completed a four-year college. But more than a few of those young people are aware of a gilded track with different rules. Its just not fair, Nicholas Burgess, a 17-year-old 11th grader at an inner-city school in Jacksonville, Fla., said in a telephone interview on Thursday. He had heard about the just-revealed admissions scam, and it hardened his belief that the deck was stacked against kids like him. We work hard, but I feel like its not made for us, he told me. Hes not aiming for an Ivy. Hes hoping for Florida State. And while the children immersed in the elite-admissions obstacle course arent the norm, many of them will by dint of their backgrounds, ambitions and, yes, talents be tomorrows leaders. Their character counts. And the admissions madness leaves a dubious imprint on it. Karl Silverberg Central Islip, N.Y. To the Editor: Some white Americans whose ancestors arrived after the Civil War may question why they should be responsible for the payment of reparations to the descendants of slaves. To them I say that becoming an American citizen entails both gaining the benefits and taking on the liabilities created by those who came before. Much as all citizens are in some sense responsible for the national debt, becoming a citizen means taking on ones share of all national obligations, codified or not. Henry Von Kohorn Princeton, N.J. To the Editor: It s difficult to adequately express my depth of gratitude to David Brooks for his courageous, inspiring and deeply moving article that is precisely the kind of powerful medicine our country needs at this time, when racism and bigotry are seemingly societal norms. It has always baffled me that no one blinks an eye at the banks, insurance companies, universities and family fortunes that over 150 years later still savor the riches theyve inherited that were made possible through the brutal institution of slavery. Yet when the topic of reparations is raised, people can think of a thousand reasons that is not possible. Image Samuel M. Lemon's maternal great-great-grandmother, Martha Jane Parham, circa 1860. Credit... My maternal ancestors were runaway slaves from neighboring plantations in Virginia. They were among the estimated 1 percent of the roughly four million held in bondage in 1861 who successfully escaped. As Mr. Brooks so insightfully wrote, this is a tragic and painful part of the American experience that is not shared by other ethnic groups. Recent studies in epigenetics suggest that trauma can be passed down over generations. But so may healing. Mr. Brookss change of heart on the matter of reparations based on his travels, personal insights and observations will provide more healing than he may ever realize. Samuel M. Lemon Media, Pa. To the Editor: I am an 80-year-old middle-class white woman, and David Brooks made me cry today. For most of my adult life I have believed that America owes reparations to African-Americans. So to read a supportive and eloquent presentation of the concept by a conservative columnist simply makes me cry. I wont live to see my beloved country pay its long overdue debt, but just knowing that the conversation has moved a bit is so encouraging. WASHINGTON The heavens part. The light shines down. The rise in the oceans begins to slow. The world is once more bathed in the mystical glow of a messiah. Our redemption from Donald Trump is at hand. We have The One again, a New One another lanky, bookish, handsome man with an attractive young family, a thin resume, an exotic name, a hip affect, a rock star aura, an enticing smile, a liberal press corps ready to fluff his pillows and a frothing Fox News. Let Elizabeth Warren knock herself out with policy proposals. Let Kamala Harris be the adult in the room. Let Bernie Sanders bellow away. The magical man-boy, Beto ORourke, has come back from his 40 days in the desert vlogging, contemplating, floating in and out of a funk to share his gifts. I dont know if youre the type of person who cant wait to get out of your clothes as soon as you get in the door from work, but I am. I love to peel off too-tight trousers and wriggle free of restrictive blouses and, best of all, escape the double clutch of a bra. Feeling free and looking insane, I wander half-dressed through my apartment on my phone, hunting for snacks. This is the least self-conscious moment of the day, a private ritual that would look funny to anyone watching. Usually, nobody is. Once, though, somebody was. An entire film crew, actually. And several people were taping, so now I suppose anyone who watches the film will see me struggle out of a woolen skirt, letting it fall to the ground in an unsexy heap. Then they will watch me, in tan-colored control-top pantyhose and a chunky knit turtleneck, lean into the refrigerator looking for one of those yogurts with the candy corners before sitting heavily on an exercise ball and devouring the yogurt as I flick through a gossip magazine. The film premiered last week, and I got to see it for the first time. Lots of firsts for me that day: first time being in a movie, first lead role, first time seeing my butt up there on the big screen at the same time 300 strangers did. TORONTO Whenever someone used to ask me if I was Muslim, I often gave an evasive answer, something like, I was born Muslim or My parents are Muslim. It was a strange way to phrase it. I told myself that the purpose of this hairsplitting was intellectual clarity, despite the fact that I had attended a mosque my entire childhood, that I had read the Quran in both Arabic and English, and that I felt personally connected to the history of Islam. Perhaps this was the natural recourse for someone who came of age after 9/11 and was taught to retreat into invisibility because of the dangers of being Muslim. I knew, in my heart, that I was drawing the distinction only to appear safer to white people, to show that I was one of the good ones, worthy of belonging. This was not just respectability politics: It was an act of self-erasure. On Friday, nearly 50 of my fellow Muslims were massacred in cold blood in New Zealand. Not murdered but lynched, their deaths live-streamed to the sound of laughter. I long ago ceased to feel shocked at the violence directed against my community. But the heartbreak still comes. The killer knew which day to pick. Friday is the Islamic Sabbath, when Muslims gather in the mosque to bow their heads in devotion to the divine. As they prayed, they might have been thinking about their children at school or what to make for dinner, unaware that soon their loved ones would be washing their bodies in accordance with Islamic tradition, preparing for the funeral prayer, the only one in Islam that has no Athan, or call to prayer, because the Athan was recited into their ears when they were born. When these Muslims saw the white stranger enter the mosque, they would have had the Islamic greeting on their tongues: Assalamu alaikum. Peace be upon you. I was at work when I received a very strange text message. Hi Sarah, my name is Will and I work for a company that sorts through donated and discarded books and came across a stack of your lovely notebooks. I am not sure if you would be interested in having them returned, but I at least would like to inquire about the pecan pie. The message was followed by a picture of the interior of a Moleskine sketchbook of mine. The first page of a Moleskine has a place for you to write your name, address, phone number and a designated reward in case of loss. I have about two dozen Moleskines from the past 13 years, and in them I have offered various rewards a painting, $20 plus a painting plus a kiss, a hot-air balloon and, in this particular book, a pecan pie. Good government has never found a home in Albany because so many of the people whove run New Yorks state government have liked things just the way theyve always been. Now some of them are uncomfortable because a proposal before the Legislature would make it easier for independent candidates to challenge this old guard and increase competition in elections. Gov. Andrew Cuomo has included a measure in his budget proposal to set up a voluntary system beginning in 2021 or 2022, in which candidates would receive $6 in public funds for every dollar they raise, up to the first $175 of every donation. The plan would amplify the power of small donors, making it easier to mount a campaign. More insurgent candidates would mean more fresh ideas over time and pressure on all officeholders to focus more sharply on serving their constituents. Under the governors proposal, each candidate running for State Assembly could receive up to $350,000 total in matching funds for the primary and general elections. There would be up to $750,000 for State Senate candidates, $8 million for comptroller candidates, $8 million for attorney general candidates and $18 million for those running for governor. Candidates who choose to participate in the states public financing system would agree to individual contribution limits that are lower than those now in place: $12,000 for statewide candidates, instead of $69,700; $8,000 for candidates for State Senate, instead of $19,300; and $4,000 for the State Assembly, instead of $9,400. The proposal would also lower contribution limits for those who dont participate in the public financing system, to $25,000 for statewide candidates, $10,000 for State Senate candidates and $6,000 for Assembly candidates. According to a study published in September in the scientific journal The Lancet H.I.V., nearly all of the 215 H.I.V. infections that resulted from the outbreak could have been prevented if the states elected officials had more quickly heeded the advice of public health experts. Mr. Pences slow, own-foot-shooting response to the H.I.V. crisis in his home state bears many lessons for his current boss, President Trump, who recently announced a plan to eradicate H.I.V. in the United States by 2030. Mr. Trumps plan has some promising features. Developed by career civil servants with decades of experience combating H.I.V., it would provide the first new funding for the domestic fight against this disease in many years . And it would deploy a majority of those dollars to communities where the virus is most prevalent and resources most urgently needed. But as The Times reported this week, the presidents proposed budget for the initiative $291 million for the first year falls far short of whats needed to reach the stated goal. And like Mr. Pences efforts in Indiana, many of the Trump administrations other policies stand to undermine this initiative. Roughly one million Americans live with H.I.V. today; one million more are at risk of contracting it. A vast majority of those who are infected live in marginalized communities, and 15 percent of them have not been diagnosed. Conquering the disease will require making health care as widely accessible as possible. But the same budget proposal that would offer new money for fighting H.I.V. seeks to cut funds for Medicaid, a program that health officials say is a bedrock for people living with the virus. (Its no surprise that the region of the country with the highest H.I.V. burden the South also has the lowest participation in Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act.) [Want nonjudgmental parenting advice and personal stories for all kinds of families? Sign up to get NYT Parenting in your inbox every week.] People do not think that men can parent, said Marshall Forstein, the interim chair of the department of psychiatry at the Cambridge Health Alliance, and an associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Forstein, a father of two, adopted his first child more than three decades ago with his husband, who is no longer alive. There is an association of homosexuality with deviant culture. Mr. Cohen declined to comment for this article, but he has not been shy about addressing his critics. During an interview on Howard Sterns SiriusXM radio show last month, he shot back at the naysayers who chastised him for taking his newborn son aboard an airplane. You dont think I checked with three pediatricians before? Mr. Cohen said, using profanity to punctuate his point. (Also, the critics may not realize that New York State does not allow for paid surrogacy arrangements, so would-be parents like Mr. Cohen go out of state in his case, California to find a surrogate. How else would Mr. Cohen take home his son?) Mr. Cohen has also replied directly to his Instagram critics. After someone chided him for taking Benjamin out into the world too soon (on a photo of Mr. Cohen going for a dog walk with his son), Mr. Cohen wrote back: My pediatrician told me to take him out. And this was Friday when it was 55 degrees. What else you got? Fire cider is an herbal concoction that steeps for weeks and emerges tangy and hot. It is a pungent brew made from apple cider vinegar, onions, garlic and horseradish, sometimes with citrus and hot peppers thrown in. Proponents claim it has beneficial properties. Lately fire cider has become known for another property: its ability to electrify the typically serene herbalist community. The contentious tonic is the subject of a lawsuit filed in Massachusetts that, when it goes to trial this month, will pit timeworn traditions against cold, hard capitalism. The question to be answered in court: Who has the right to sell fire cider and still call it fire cider? The conflict began in 2012, when a Massachusetts company called Shire City Herbals trademarked the name of its signature drink, which comes in three flavors and is now carried in all 50 states. Dana St. Pierre , 40, who founded the company with his wife and brother-in-law, said he learned the basics of making fire cider from his German grandmother, a medical skeptic who often relied on home remedies. Mr. St. Pierre said that he tinkered with her recipe for decades, adding habanero peppers and lemons for kick, steeping the brew for four weeks at a time, until it tasted just right. According to his version of events, he came up with the name fire cider and around 2010, began s elling it at local craft fairs and farmers markets. Soon after, on the advice of a customer, he trademarked the brand name to protect his small family business from being copied by larger companies. Rates From about 359 Canadian dollars , or about $272 at current exchange rates . The Basics All hotel openings involve some drama, but the St. Regis Toronto the brands first property in Canada comes with an epic back story. Born in 2012 as the Trump International Hotel and Tower, the mixed-use project endured a litany of well-publicized problems, from flying glass building panels to political protests. After new owners deleted the Trump name last year, Marriott International took control of the property, temporarily rechristened it the Adelaide, and undertook a swift, stealthy St. Regis rebrand. The new St. Regis opened in late November. I was there in late December and, surprisingly, Trump-era decor hadnt been updated in most guest rooms; instead, Marriott splurged on an extravagantly modernist lobby, a $5 million restaurant, and two splashy ultraluxury suites. The Location The hotels location, within the concrete canyons of the Financial District, makes up in convenience what it lacks in glamour. Attractions like St. Lawrence Market, Scotiabank Arena, and Bell Lightbox a cultural center that is the home of the Toronto International Film Festival are less than 15 minutes away on foot. The Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport downtown can take just a quarter-hour by cab; five minutes gets you to Union Station, Torontos grand rail hub. But this stretch of Bay Street can hollow out on evenings and weekends, and youll need a car or public transit to reach more intriguing neighborhoods or for dining options sexier than nearby chains. The Room My rather cheerless 22nd-floor superior king room boasted beige wallpaper, an armchair in chocolate-brown damask, and a TV atop a functional-looking dresser of ash-gray veneer. There was no art on the walls; a monochromatic nature print above the headboard provided the sole decorative touch. Painted silver, a desk at the window offered some whimsy, until I noticed extensive peeling along its sides. An iHome docking clock radio sat on one nightstand. Panels on both sides of the bed allowed full control of lighting and drapes a thoughtful touch. Cotton sateen Frette bed linens, crisp but soft, felt like heaven. The overall mood was mid-2000s corporate affluence; the front desk told me guest rooms are slated for minor tweaks, but not major upgrades. A federal judge on Friday temporarily blocked a Kentucky law that prohibits abortion after a fetal heartbeat is detected, which typically happens around six weeks into pregnancy, before many women know they are pregnant. The measure, which was signed into law on Friday by the states Republican governor, Matt Bevin, and was set to take effect immediately, was poised to become one of the strictest anti-abortion laws in the country. But late on Friday, the judge, David J. Hale of the Western District of Kentucky, ruled the law was potentially unconstitutional. He halted enforcement for at least 14 days to prevent irreparable harm until he could hold a hearing. The ruling came amid a yearslong effort to curb abortions in Kentucky, which has one remaining abortion clinic. Several other states are considering similar measures, known as heartbeat bills, as states move to restrict or shore up access to abortion in anticipation of a more conservative Supreme Court possibly ruling on the issue. China shrimp imports from Vietnam see drastic fall China's shrimp imports from Vietnam has substantially decreased, based on data bared recently by the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP). According to VASEP, Vietnam's shrimp exports to China in 2018 declined 29% to US$449.8 million year-on-year, in contrast to the positive growth rate of nearly 60% in 2017. Thus, from the third position in 2017, accounting for nearly 18% of Vietnams total value of shrimp exports, China dropped to the fourth position in 2018, accounting for nearly 14%. VASEP said China reduced buying due to a lot of inventory from 2017 and a drop in domestic shrimp price. Moreover, China has increasingly tightened import and export activities through border, affecting exports of shrimp to China. China was the fastest-growing among the major markets for Vietnamese shrimp during the 10-year period 2008-2017, posting yearly import increases. However, this uptrend was broken in 2018. China imports more of Vietnams black tiger shrimp than its whiteleg shrimp. As of November 2018, whiteleg shrimp accounted for 30.8% of shrimp imports from Vietnam, while tiger shrimp accounted for 64.7%. Export of black tiger shrimp to China in the first 11 months of 2018 increased 14%, while that of whiteleg shrimp decreased 43% compared with the same period in 2017. China is the sixth-largest shrimp import market in the world, and Vietnam ranks eighth among the main shrimp suppliers to China, accounting for 1.8% of the market share. Vietnam has to compete with rivals in Asia such as Thailand, which accounts for 16.1% of the China market share; India, 9.7%; and Indonesia, 2% as of 2017. In terms of import prices, the price of shrimp imports from India and Indonesia is the most competitive, as per VASEP. The average import price from ailand is the highest, followed by the price of Vietnamese shrimp. WASHINGTON One overarching law is almost always applicable in Washington the law of unintended consequences. Time and again, Congress takes steps to fix a problem, only to end up further aggravating the situation or creating a whole new issue. Such is the case with the National Emergencies Act of 1976, enacted in the post-Watergate era to rein in presidential power. It has instead provided President Trump with a route to expand executive authority in defiance of Congress by declaring a national emergency to fund a wall along the southwestern border. On Friday, the president issued his first veto after Congress rejected that declaration. Now, with the immediate partisan fight over Mr. Trumps border emergency diminishing, those in favor of overhauling the 1976 law he invoked remain determined to pursue bipartisan changes in legislation they view as an abject surrender of congressional power. Ultimately, this is a problem created by Congress, and it has been allowed to persist by Congress, said Senator Mike Lee, Republican of Utah, who introduced a measure this past week to make it more difficult for presidents to circumvent Congress through an emergency declaration. Congress is starting to wake up to the fact that over time it has delegated out too much power. WASHINGTON The relationship began in the most Washington way ever: on the set of C-Span. Will Fischer, then the director of government relations for VoteVets, the liberal political action committee, was tapped to face off with Dan Caldwell, the executive director of the conservative Concerned Veterans for America. It was a continuation of a yearslong and contentious dialogue over veterans issues, including disputes over health care, which candidates care more about matters important to veterans, as well as their dueling views on the nefarious nature of the Republican or Democratic parties. But then the two found an unanticipated policy bridge, and have now gone on to work together to persuade Congress to finally revoke authorizations of military force passed after Sept. 11, 2001, which both believe have been bent and stretched to justify wars far beyond Congresss intentions nearly two decades ago. I honestly did go into the interview expecting a combative conversation, Mr. Caldwell said, but when we started talking about foreign policy, it was clear there were some areas of alignment especially on war powers. The wheels started turning in my head, and we came together and decided to pursue some of these shared goals. Both groups who are wolf to the others sheepdog on nearly every other policy issue intend to share a legislative agenda this year that presses for changes to war authorization measures and an end to the United States presence in Afghanistan. They plan to more strongly tie their substantial financial and news media support in 2020 to candidates views on foreign policy. TUNIS Outrage grew in Tunisia this past week after 11 premature babies died in less than 24 hours from infections acquired in the same hospital as doctors and patients expressed frustration over the countrys struggling public health care system. The babies died recently at the Rabta hospital maternity ward in central Tunis, the countrys capital, after nosocomial, or hospital-acquired, infections led to deadly septic shocks, the health ministry said. Four more babies died later, and two of those deaths were also linked to the infection, said officials at a news conference at the health ministry on Friday. After the deaths, Abderraouf Cherif, the health minister, who had been nominated just months ago, quickly resigned. Several top health officials were fired. WASHINGTON In announcing the United States annual list of the worlds worst human rights violations, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo this past week singled out South Sudan and Nicaragua for government-sanctioned atrocities against their own people. Over the past year in South Sudan, Mr. Pompeo said, military forces waged sexual violence against civilians based on their political allegiances and their ethnicity. In Nicaragua, he said when citizens peacefully protested Social Security benefits, they were met with sniper fire. But the Department of Homeland Security has sought to limit the number of immigrants who left South Sudan or Nicaragua for safety, seeking to temporarily live and work legally in the United States. The apparent contradiction shows the Trump administrations competing priorities and how they affect foreigners facing government corruption and violence. MAZAR-I-SHARIF, Afghanistan At least 100 Afghan soldiers abandoned their posts and fled imminent capture by the Taliban by crossing the countrys border into neighboring Turkmenistan, only to face immediate expulsion, Afghan officials said on Saturday. It was the latest in a series of insurgent attacks in the hotly contested Bala Murghab district, where an entire Afghan Army company was killed or captured on Monday. By Saturday, its defenders said the district had mostly fallen into Taliban control. Afghan officials gave varying accounts of what happened Saturday, with some saying the soldiers would be returned to safety by Turkmenistan, and others that they had been forced back by the Turkmenistan Army into a no mans land, a 500-yard-wide strip between border fences. And some said the soldiers had been forced back into Taliban hands by days end. Saleh Mohammad Mubarez, the commander of the Afghan local police in the district, said that 140 soldiers from the Afghan Border Police, a military unit, had fled toward Turkmenistan after two days of Taliban attacks on bases in the Morichaq area. As Muslims in Christchurch, New Zealand, grieved after attacks on two mosques killed at least 50 people and injured dozens more, several charities sought donations to help the wounded and the victims families rebuild their lives. Donors can research the organization or charity before offering help by checking the website Charity Navigator, which grades charities based on transparency, accountability and financial health. [Read our latest coverage here.] Groups offering aid A crowdfunding page set up by Victim Support New Zealand for victims of the shootings had raised more than 2.6 million New Zealand dollars (about $1.7 million) from some 32,000 donors by Saturday evening. The charity has also collected another 81,000 New Zealand dollars on a second page it set up when the volume of traffic overnight Friday appeared to temporarily overwhelm the first. United for Christchurch Mosque Shootings: This Muslim crowdfunding page had raised about 1.29 million New Zealand dollars from about 22,000 donors by Saturday evening. JAKARTA, Indonesia The professor sang an old anti-army song at a rally outside the state palace in central Jakarta, Indonesias capital. After a video of his performance appeared online, the police arrested him this month for insulting a state institution. A week earlier, a housewife in Surabaya was sentenced to 10 months in jail over four WhatsApp messages that a local company found insulting. She denied even sending the messages, which were in Javanese, a language she does not speak. Both the professor, Robertus Robet, and the housewife, Saidah Saleh Syamlan, were charged under Indonesias sweeping online criminal defamation law, which allows anyone to file a complaint and carries a sentence of up to four years in prison. Human rights advocates call the law overly broad and say it is used by government officials and influential people to stifle free expression. CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has been the sunny face of New Zealand, celebrated as the nations youngest leader in 150 years, the one who gave birth in office and brought her baby to the floor of the United Nations. At 38, shes pitched progressive politics and her nations charms to Stephen Colbert and the Today show. Vogue magazine called her the anti-Trump. Now, with the massacre of 50 people at two mosques by a gunman espousing anti-Muslim, anti-immigrant hatred, Ms. Ardern is back in the international spotlight, but the glamour is gone. Instead, she speaks for New Zealand at a moment of national pain, her vision of kindness in politics tested by the worst mass murder in her countrys modern history. We represent diversity, kindness, compassion. A home for those who share our values. Refuge for those who need it, she told reporters at Parliament as the horror of the shootings began to unfold on Friday, her words broadcast around the world even as the killers video and manifesto of hatred were spreading online. Ms. Ardern herself had been emailed a copy of the manifesto minutes before the massacre began. You may have chosen us, she said of the gunman, but we utterly reject and condemn you. That sentiment has echoed across New Zealand in the aftermath of the shootings. In a country of less than five million people, prized for its safety and natural beauty, people had the same refrain: Things like this do not happen here. Many of these people need multiple surgeries due to the complex nature of their injuries, and the need to provide a number of shorter surgeries in a phased way so patients have the best chance of recovery, he said. Air New Zealand announces name of victim The airline Air New Zealand said one of its employees, Lilik Abdul Hamid, was among those killed. The companys chief executive, Christopher Luxon, said in a statement that Mr. Hamid had been an aircraft maintenance engineer with Air New Zealand for 16 years. He first got to know the team even earlier when he worked with our aircraft engineers in a previous role overseas, Mr. Luxon said. The friendships he made at that time led him to apply for a role in Air New Zealand and make the move to Christchurch. Mr. Hamid is survived by his wife and two children, Mr. Luxon said. It was the first public announcement of one of the victims names. The police have yet to release a list of those who died. Little information on other victims as death toll rises The police said on Sunday that the death toll had risen to 50 as officials discovered another body at the mosque on Deans Avenue, where most of the victims were killed. Another 50 people were injured. As of last night we were able to take all of the victims from both of those scenes and in doing so we have located a further victim, said Mike Bush, New Zealands police commissioner. Mr. Bush said a list of victims names has been compiled with the help of senior religious leaders and had been shared with family members. He said the list was an informal one, though, and that officials would not confirm the names publicly until the bodies had been formally identified. An anti-immigration lawmaker in Australia who has been criticized for blaming Muslim immigration for Fridays New Zealand shootings struck a teenager who smashed an egg on his head in Melbourne on Saturday. In video footage on the Facebook page of the senator, Fraser Anning, the teenager can be seen approaching him as Mr. Anning speaks to reporters in a southeastern suburb of Melbourne. The teenager raises a mobile phone in one hand and smashes the egg on the back of Mr. Annings head with the other. Mr. Anning turns and swiftly strikes the young man in the face twice. A scuffle ensues in which other men tackle the teenager to the ground while swearing at him. The video shows them holding the teenager on the ground in a chokehold until police officers arrive. A police spokesman said officers had arrested a 17-year-old man at the scene and later released him pending further inquiries. Local news outlets later identified the teenager as Will Connolly. By CBN , March . 14, 2019 CUCUTA, Colombia The lights are starting to come back on in parts of Caracas Venezuela's capital. But the extended power outage and ongoing food crisis have sent a tidal wave of humanity fleeing the country to neighboring Brazil and Colombia. Here in the border town of Cucuta, thugs paid by Venezuelan Dictator Nicholas Maduro's regime are targeting people for robbery and kidnapping. Read More: Join us - become an Elderado today at: LarryElder.com Follow Larry Elder on Follow Larry Elder on Twitter "Like" Larry Elder on Facebook GRAFTON, Australia Grafton is a peaceful and quiet eastern Australian town along the Clarence River, surrounded by farms and filled with families and retirees, a place where people leave their homes unlocked and everyone knows someone. The biggest event is the annual Jacaranda Festival, named for the blossoms of its indigo-flowered trees. The biggest construction projects are the new jail and the new bridge. So it was a stunner on Saturday for Graftons 18,000 people when they were involuntarily vaulted into the center of notoriety, as the world learned that one of their own was the suspect in New Zealands worst mass killing. Members of the international news media poured into Grafton, 380 miles north of Sydney, rushing to find anyone who knew or remembered the suspect, Brenton Harrison Tarrant, 28, a former bodybuilder accused of slaughtering 50 people at two mosques in Christchurch, broadcasting the attacks live on Facebook and disseminating a racist online screed. Its illegal to hide the names from us! Mr. Darwish shouted at a police official, who was fielding questions while standing on a chair at the back of the room, where few could hear him. You have to provide them! This was not where they belonged, many of the survivors said. Bloodshed, terrorism and fear were what some of them had left behind, fleeing countries like Pakistan, Afghanistan and Somalia. Others were born here, used to relative quiet and peace. But in the land of emerald green rugby pitches, hatred found them all anyway. [Go here to read how the attack unfolded on Friday.] They responded with the full range of human emotion. Walking between the mosques and the hospital revealed countless examples of tears and outrage. There was debilitating sadness. There was confusion, but also the kind of love you see in hugs that hold tight and bring tears without concern for who is looking. This is a test, said Zia Aiyaz, 32, an engineer originally from Afghanistan who flew to Christchurch from Hamilton, New Zealand, to help the families of those who were killed or wounded. God is testing us testing the families and us, and were here to help. Islam first arrived in Christchurch in 1854, with a family from India, local history says. Its roots strengthened in the 1970s with the arrival of Afghan immigrants, and again in the 90s with new arrivals from other countries. The Muslim community is neither highly visible nor invisible here in Christchurch, a pleasant city of 350,000 near the South Islands Pacific Coast. Mostly Sunni, they are part of a small but growing group of around 46,000 Muslims overall in a country of 4.6 million. In Christchurch, their ranks include students at local universities, taxi drivers, professionals, nurses and imams like Lateef Alabi. LONDON This is the story of a strange election in a small Massachusetts city called Fall River that, believe or not, helps explain Britains week of Brexit chaos and its uncertain future. Fall Rivers saga began in October, when its then-26-year-old mayor, Jasiel Correia, was arrested on charges of defrauding investors and falsifying tax returns. He had raised funding to develop a marketing app called SnoOwl but, according to prosecutors, instead spent $230,000 of investors money on jewelry, clothes, a Mercedes and his successful mayoral campaign. Mr. Correia contested the charges and refused to step down. So some citizens of Fall River got enough signatures to force a recall election, which was held on Tuesday. The recall election was an absolute walloping for the mayor. About 61 percent voted to remove him from office. Only 4,911 people, or 38 percent, voted to keep him in office. It was a clear popular mandate. PARIS Violence erupted on Saturday in Paris in the 18th weekend of Yellow Vest demonstrations as protesters targeted symbols of economic privilege, setting multiple fires and smashing a high-end restaurant on the Champs-Elysees, even as the crowds numbers dwindled from past rallies. Organizers for Saturdays protests said on social media that they wanted the day to serve as an ultimatum to the government and the powerful. The size of the movement that started in November over a proposed gas tax increase and came to embody general discontent against President Emmanuel Macrons policies has been shrinking from weekend to weekend. But protesters have maintained a continuous presence every Saturday. His shows were broadcast on the television channel of Ihor V. Kolomoisky, the oligarch he lightly ribbed in a joke about a wealthy man seeking a lost bank called Privat, which sounds like privates. (Why did the oligarch walk into the strip bar?) Mr. Kolomoisky is embroiled in a sprawling banking bailout scandal involving PrivatBank that cost Ukraine $5.6 billion a staggering expense for a country whose government is propped up by loans from the International Monetary Fund. Through the television studio, Mr. Zelensky has also been a business partner with the oligarch. Maintaining political clout in Ukraine could help Mr. Kolomoisky, who has moved to Israel, resolve the dispute in his favor. Mr. Zelensky is now positioned at least as the kingmaker in the two-stage election, and even the possible victor. He has denied that he is a puppet for the scandal-hit mogul and has defended his qualifications as a comedian to lead a country involved both in a shooting war and the broader conflict between the West and Russia. The contest pitting a comedian telling scatological jokes against two decades-long insiders falls short of the stirring vision of a fresh start that many Ukrainians shared in February 2014, when tens of thousands of protesters swept a corrupt, Russian-aligned government from power. Yet the mere fact that the country is staging a contested election is something of a victory in the former Soviet Union. Elections in neighboring Russia, in contrast, have become little more than listless endorsements of the ruling party. Dear @IlhanMN, I hear you plan to go on a fact-finding tour of Israel. In fact, Israel is doing pretty well. Its, Somalia, your native country, that could truly use your formidable skills. Maybe you could use your frequent flyer miles and swing by. By National Review , Aug . 14, 2019 As Syria burns, as casualty rates soar to levels not seen in the Middle East since the IranIraq War, and as a Baathist dictator clings to power in part by the use of chemical weapons, it simply boggles the mind that so many Americans seem to believe that the world would be better off with Saddam Hussein and are so committed to this view that they literally want to shut down any discourse from supporters of the 2003 invasion. Here, for example, is Bill Clinton, dismissing Dick Cheneys critiques, with this incredible statement: I believe if they hadnt gone to war in Iraq, none of this would be happening. Read More: Join us - become an Elderado today at: LarryElder.com Follow Larry Elder on Follow Larry Elder on Twitter "Like" Larry Elder on Facebook Briebart News claims the "establishment media" led by CNN is deliberately spreading false news that Donald Trump believes his supporters may resort to violence his political opponents do not yield to the whims of the tweeter-in-chief. BN is blowing smoke. The conservative site counts 14 media outlets, including the Washington Post, New York, MSNBC, HuffPost, The Hill, Talking Points Memo and San Francisco Chronicle, that it says took a quote that Trump gave Amanda House, Breitbart's deputy political editor, about his impending executive order on campus free speech out of context. Here's the quote: You know, the left plays a tougher game, its very funny. I actually think that the people on the right are tougher, but they dont play it tougher. Okay? I can tell you I have the support of the police, the support of the military, the support of the Bikers for Trump I have the tough people, but they dont play it tough until they go to a certain point. and then it would be very bad, very bad. But the left plays it cuter and tougher. Like with all the nonsense that they do in Congress with all this invest[igations] thats all they want to do is you know, they do things that are nasty. Republicans never played this. With all due respect to Briebart, in referencing Congress and all of its investigations, Trump was talking more than just college campuses. Trump is the guy who famously tells his rally fans that it's okay to "beat the crap" out of protestors. And if Trump felt "victimized" by the "enemies of the people," why did he remove a link to the Briebart piece just hours after the massacre of 49 Muslims in New Zealand? Where's there's smoke, there's fire. Conservative lawyer and anti-Trumper George Conway, husband of White House counselor Kellyanne Conway, told a Georgetown University conference that he fears America is in danger of becoming a "banana republic" under Trump. And Trump's personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, testified in Congress: Given my experience working for Mr. Trump, I fear that if he loses the election in 2020, that there will never be a peaceful transition of power. Tanks aren't rolling down Pennsylvania Avenue yet, but Trump is a big fan of military parades. Bengaluru: Apartment with 3 or more COVID-19 will be deemed a cluster Bengalureans hold protest against elevated corridor, organisers say no to BJP leaders' participation Bengaluru oi-Chennabasaveshwar P Bengaluru, Mar 16: Organisers of protest against the proposed North-South elevated corridor denied participation of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the protest event. More than 50 Residential Welfare Associations (RWA) members will stage a demonstration demanding cancellation of the tenders for the controversial project. However, organisers thanked party leaders, elected representatives and candidates for being the torch bearers of democracy. "We respectfully decline their participation at the event." "All parties equally responsible for the mess in Bengaluru. If they want to fix that, we request them to raise the people's objections athe Karnataka Assembly. This is people's issue, not partisan politics and #TenderRadduMaadi protest is of, for citizens." Umesh Jadhav warns legal action against Congress A petition filed by Brunda Sreedhar, claimed said "The proposed North - South Elevated Corridor will destroy 120 fully grown trees in Cubbon Park. This could also result in the axing of over 3700 trees along the stretch of the corridor." Already 128, 395 people have signed the petition. Karnataka: Resident Welfare Associations & several organisations hold protest against the construction of an elevated corridor in Bengaluru. pic.twitter.com/jPsOnOU6BY ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 Deputy CM G Parameshwara said, "There is always a different opinion. People who are coming from the North of Bengaluru want this corridor. People of South say they don't want it. We will try to convince them." Tamil Nadu: Driver from Nagapattinam held for sexually abusing several women Chennai pti-PTI Nagapattinam (Tamil Nadu), Mar 16: Amid outrage over the Pollachi sexual harassment case, a car driver from Nagapattinam was arrested on Saturday on charges of sexually abusing a 22-year-old woman with police saying he might have lured several women after promising to marry them. The development comes days after the arrest of four men who had on February 12 allegedly tried to disrobe a 19-year-old woman inside a car near Pollachi, over 500 km from Coimbatore, recorded the act and blackmailed her using the visuals. Nagapattinam police said the driver, Sundar, was arrested following a complaint from the parents of a 22-year-old woman belonging to Kilvelur in the district. Police said the man had allegedly sexually abused several women after promising to marry them. He had allegedly taken photos and videos of the women and sexually exploited them, threatening to post the footage on social media. Police have seized the mobile phone used by Sundar, which allegedly contains several videos and photographs, sources said, adding details would be known only after a complete inquiry. [Pollachi sex scandal: 4 arrested, case transferred to CB-CID] The Pollachi case assumed political overtones since a local functionary of the ruling AIADMK allegedly attacked the victim's brother. The attack by the functionary, who was later expelled from the AIADMK, coupled with reports in a section of media that the gang had sexually harassed several other women led to an outrage. The issue eventually snowballed into a political row and main opposition DMK targeted the AIADMK asking if it was protecting the accused. A slew of protests by parties, including the DMK, students, and youth outfits escalated the row, bringing more pressure on the government and police for speedy action. On March 12, hours after assigning the case to the CB-CID, the government decided to hand over the investigation to the CBI. PTI If normalcy to be brought in Kashmir, Article 370 has to be reinstated: Farooq Abdullah JKSSB SI Recruitment 2021: Last date to apply for 800 Sub Inspector posts, direct link here After being de-linked, J&K assembly polls likely to be held from June 4 onwards India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Mar 16: The elections to the Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly which was delinked with the Lok Sabha polls is expected to be conducted in seven phases. Officials who have been holding a series of meetings have said that the polls are likely to be conducted in the state in June. The views were put-forth by the home ministry and the state administration. It was said that due to the volatile situation in the state, the simultaneous elections could not be conducted. The Lok Sabha polls in the state are being conducted in five phases. The officials said that the assembly elections must be conducted in seven phases. J&K: Suspected terrorists shoot at a NC worker A senior official said that the decision to de-link the elections was taken in view of the security situation in the state apart from the volatile conditions along the Indo-Pak border. However this decision had come in for criticism and several political parties said that the state was being denied a rightful representation. As per the discussions held, the poll schedule would commence from June 4, after Ramzan and end by July 1 before the Amarnath Yatra begins. The term of the current legislative assembly ends on June 3. The President's rule in the state expires on July 3. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 16, 2019, 5:58 [IST] Be present in Lok Sabha, RS says BJP in 3 line whip to its MPs BJP likely to release first list of LS polls candidates today India oi-Deepika S New Delhi, Mar 16: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is likely to declare its first list of candidates for the Lok Sabha elections on Saturday evening. The list would cover seats going to polls in the first two phases as well as some of the prominent names. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, party president Amit Shah and other top Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders will attend the central election committee meeting. The list will have the names of most of the candidates for the first phase of polling, which will be held on April 11 in 91 seats. The country will be voting for the 545-seat lower house of parliament -- called the Lok Sabha -- and polling will unfold over seven phases around the country ending on May 19. Of the total, 543 seats will be up for grabs in the coming election. Patidar leader, Reshma Patel quits BJP, calls it a marketing party to promote hollow schemes The election is coming off the back of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan over the disputed Kashmir region that almost brought the two nuclear armed neighbors to the brink of war. With Modi known for dropping a number of incumbents in order to beat the anti-incumbency factor, the saffron party has been abuzz with speculation over the fate of its sitting MPs. It has sought feedback from a number of sources, including the public, and has also asked its MPs to furnish details of the works they have carried out as it finalises its candidates for the upcoming polls. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 16, 2019, 9:07 [IST] Congress stakes claim to form govt in Goa, BJP holds urgent meeting India oi-Vikas SV Panaji, Mar 16: The Congress on Saturday staked a claim to form the government and wrote to Governor urging dismissal of the BJP-led government in the coastal state. The Congress, in the letter to Governor, asserted that it was the 'single largest party' in the state, adding that the current Manohar Parrikar led government is in 'minority'. Currently, the strength of the Goa legislative assembly stands at 37 with 14 MLAs of Congress, 13 of BJP, three each of Goa Forward Party and MGP, three independents and a lone NCP MLA. The Congress was the single largest party with 17 MLAs when the election results were declared in February 2017. But since then, three Congress MLAs joined the BJP. "Consequent upon the sad demise of Francis D' Souza, MLA who was belonging to the BJP, it is humbly submitted that the incumbent BJP-led State government under the leadership of Shri Manohar Parrikar which has long lost the trust of the people has also lost the strength of the House. Also we anticipate that the numbers of the BJP may further dwindle thus not allowing such a party in minority to continue even for a moment," the letter to the Governor said. The vacancies in the Goa Assembly were created following the demise of Mapusa MLA and former deputy chief minister Francis D' Souza last month, and after Mandrem MLA Dayanand Sopte and Shiroda MLA Subhash Shirodkar quit Congress to join BJP. [Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar discharged from hospital] The claim to form the government comes at a time when reports have indicated that Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar's health has taken a turn for the worse. Besides the ailing Parrikar, another BJP MLA Pandurang Madkaikar is unwell and hasn't been seen since he suffered a stroke in June last year, said reports. Here is the Goa Congress' letter to the Governor: Congress stakes claim to form government in Goa; writes to Governor to dismiss BJP-led govt which is in "minority" & call "single-largest party Congress to form govt".Also states in its letter, "any attempt to bring Goa under President's rule will be illegal & will be challenged" pic.twitter.com/EZ125NRO0a ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 Ex-CM Raman Singh's son-in-law charged for Rs. 50 crore fraud: Cops India oi-PTI Raipur, Mar 16: The son-in-law of former Chhattisgarh chief minister Raman Singh was on Friday charged for allegedly committing financial irregularities of Rs. 50 crore during his tenure as the superintendent of a state government hospital in Raipur, police said. Singh's son-in-law Puneet Gupta, who was in the government service, once worked as the superintendent of the state-run DKS Hospital in Raipur. Puneet Gupta was charged for forgery and cheating based on a complaint by incumbent superintendent of DKS Post Graduate Institute and Research Centre Raipur (or DKS Hospital), Kamal Kishore Sahare, at the Golebazar police station, Raipur Additional Superintendent of Police Prafull Thakur told PTI. In his complaint, Kishore Sahare alleged that during his tenure as the superintendent of the centre, Puneet Gupta and others had committed financial irregularities to the tune of Rs. 50 crore and caused a huge loss to the state exchequer, he said. Analysis of MPs/MLAs with crimes against women The government had received complaints pertaining to appointment against rules in the hospital, following which an inquiry committee was constituted, Prafull Thakur said, quoting the complaint. Later, the committee submitted its findings to the government, which revealed Gupta had allegedly misused his position and committed fraud of Rs. 50 crore, the complaint said. Puneet Gupta and others were charged under section 409 (criminal breach of trust by public servant), 420 (cheating), 467 (forgery of valuable security), 468 (forgery for purpose of cheating) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code, Thakur said, adding that further investigation was underway. The names of other accused were not mentioned in the complaint and they are part of the investigation, he added. Puneet Gupta was shifted as the officer on special duty in the Raipur Medical College after the Congress government took charge in December last. Last month, he had resigned from the service after a case was registered against him by a Congress leader in connection with the alleged fixing of the the Antagarh assembly bypoll held in 2014 during the previous BJP regime. PTI For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 16, 2019, 11:08 [IST] If normalcy to be brought in Kashmir, Article 370 has to be reinstated: Farooq Abdullah JKSSB SI Recruitment 2021: Last date to apply for 800 Sub Inspector posts, direct link here Hitting separatists further, IT department unearths assets worth crores in J&K India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Mar 16: Furthering the probe into terror financing in Jammu and Kashmir, the Income Tax department has unearthed property papers, jewellery and undisclosed cash to the tune of crores of rupees. The department searched at least five locations in Kashmir. "These actions are part of the department's continued drive against use of black money by disruptive elements in the state. The operations also send a message of deterrence and obviation to those intending to vitiate the democratic process of free and fair elections," the IT department said. Kashmir to Delhi, ED set to attach properties of Separatists worth Rs 9 crore The tax department further said one operation was against a prominent Line of Control (LOC) trader who apparently used proxies to conduct large cross-LoC trade in the past six years. "Large undisclosed profit earned by him has been diverted to allegedly suspect elements in the Valley. During the action, documents of transactions in the names of some of the proxies were found. Investigations are in progress to determine the clandestine cross-LoC trade conducted by the tax evader through the Custodian of the Trade Facilitation Centre, Srinagar," it said. The tax department also said the preliminary results of the search operation are extremely encouraging. In the aggregate, undisclosed cash of Rs 1.44 crore and unaccounted jewellery worth Rs 2.48 crore have been seized. The documentary evidence collected and examined so far shows undeclared property transactions of more than Rs 41 crore, primarily in the Kashmir valley and concealed financial transactions of nearly Rs 17 crore. Terror funding: ED attaches plush property of Kashmir separatist's fund manager A number of hard disks have also been seized that prima facie corroborate the evidence found in the seized documents, the department said. The department also covered a hotelier and a retailer of liquor in the Kashmir valley. Evidence found in the search shows that he has been earning large undisclosed profits on the sale of liquor as well as from his hotel business and he has not shown cash receipts in his books of account. I was jailed for not joining BJP: Karnataka Congress chief DK Shivakumar Omicron: Karnataka may not hesitate to shut schools Karnataka MLC elections 2021: Result date, candidates, seats & all you need to know about the poll Karnataka MLC elections: Over 99% voter turnout, results to have bearing on power equation Indian Coast Guard rescues 16 Scientists off Karnataka coast India oi-Chennabasaveshwar P Bengaluru, Mar 16: Indian Coast Guard ships doused a major fire on board a ship and saved the lives of scientists off the Mangaluru coast in Karnataka on Friday. Coast Guard ships -Vikram and Shoor- doused a major fire on board a ship, SCI Research Vessel Sagar Sampada - carrying around 30 crew and 16 scientists, off the Mangaluru coast in Karnataka. The ship has been brought back to Mangaluru port. After the fire was put out, the research vessel was escorted to the New Mangalore harbour, the Coast Guard said in the tweet. The research vessel was equipped to carry out research in marine biology and fishery, reported news agency ANI. During late hrs on 15 Mar 19, #SCI Research Vessel Sagar Sampada reported fire onboard at sea @IndiaCoastGuard Ships Sujay & Vikram engaged in fire fighting ops. Safety of 36 crew & 16 scientist onboard ascertained. Vessel being escorted to New Mangalore harbour.@DefenceMinIndia pic.twitter.com/OBS9OYiaqH Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) March 16, 2019 Sagar Sampada: Fishery Oceanographic Research Vessel Sagar Sampada is an Indian research vessel that is equipped to carry out multidisciplinary research in oceanography, marine biology and fishery science. The vessel is currently managed and operated by the Centre for Marine Living Resources & Ecology (CMLRE), Kochi, a research institute under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, and is operated from Kochi. FORV Sagar Sampada is a platform for interdisciplinary expeditions in and around the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone, with participation from various institutions, from India and abroad. BSP to fight solo in UP, Uttarakhand, no tie-up with Owaisi's AIMIM, says Mayawati 'Should not be misled': Mayawati reaches out to Brahmins before UP polls JDS Gen. Sec Danish Ali joins BSP 25 days ahead of LS polls India oi-Chennabasaveshwar P Lucknow, Mar 16: In a surprising political development, Janata Dal (Secular) General Secretary Danish Ali, who until recently was involved in alliance negotiations with Congress and JD(S), joined Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Saturday. After joing the BSP, Danish ALi said, "JD(S) doesn't have a large organisation structure in Uttar Pradesh. Despite all my efforts I could not have raised it in my 'janmabhoomi, my 'karmabhoomi'....The way in which there is a threat to constitution today, it has become essential to use our energy with a strong leadership." Congress-JDS agree on 20-8 seat-sharing deal in Karnataka "I never asked for anything even when I was in JD(S), it was upto HD Deve Gowda ji to decide what work to assign me. I have come here after taking the blessings and permission of Deve Gowda ji. I will work wherever Behen ji assigns me, said Ali. Three days ago Danish Ali had met with Congress President Rahul Gandhi in Kochi and finalised the Congress-JDS seat-sharing in Karnataka. The Congress and JDS agreed on 20-8 seat-sharing deal. Ali had been considered the 'Delhi face' of the JD(S) for years and was considered close to party patriarch H.D. Deve Gowda. Ali had, in fact, been the face of the JD(S) in Delhi for over 22 years. Leadership in Goa will not change till Parrikar is there: Speaker Michael Lobo India oi-Vikas SV Panaji, Mar 16: The BJP on Saturday held an urgent meeting of its Goa MLAs after the Congress staked a claim to form government in the coastal state. After the meeting, BJP MLA and Speaker of the Goa Assembly Michael Lobo said that leadership in Goa will not change. The Congress earlier today staked a claim to form government and wrote to Governor urging dismissal of the BJP-led government in the coastal state. The Congress, in the letter to Governor, asserted that it was the 'single largest party' in the state, adding that the current Manohar Parrikar led government is in 'minority'. "Emergency meeting was held as Parrikar Ji got really ill last night. Doctors are seeing him and not saying that he will recover. By-polls are also near in 3 constituencies and the meeting was also to finalise the candidature..Till Parrikar is here, only he will remain the Chief Minister and no one has made the demand to replace him. We are praying that he gets well, but there are no chances, he is very ill. But if anything happens to him, new CM will be from BJP," Lobo said. Goa minister Vijai Sardesai on March 16 met Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar and said his health had "deteriorated", but he was "stable". Sardesai, along with five Goa MLAs, met Parrikar at his private residence. [Congress stakes claim to form govt in Goa, BJP holds urgent meeting] Currently, the strength of the Goa legislative assembly stands at 37 with 14 MLAs of Congress, 13 of BJP, three each of Goa Forward Party and MGP, three independents and a lone NCP MLA. The Congress was the single largest party with 17 MLAs when the election results were declared in February 2017. But since then, three Congress MLAs joined the BJP. "Consequent upon the sad demise of Francis D' Souza, MLA who was belonging to the BJP, it is humbly submitted that the incumbent BJP-led State government under the leadership of Shri Manohar Parrikar which has long lost the trust of the people has also lost the strength of the House. Also we anticipate that the numbers of the BJP may further dwindle thus not allowing such a party in minority to continue even for a moment," the letter to the Governor said The vacancies in the Goa Assembly were created following the demise of Mapusa MLA and former deputy chief minister Francis D' Souza last month, and after Mandrem MLA Dayanand Sopte and Shiroda MLA Subhash Shirodkar quit Congress to join BJP. The claim to form the government comes at a time when reports have indicated that Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar's health has taken a turn for the worse. Besides the ailing Parrikar, another BJP MLA Pandurang Madkaikar is unwell and hasn't been seen since he suffered a stroke in June last year, said reports. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 16, 2019, 23:56 [IST] As Mamata Banerjee takes swipe at Rahul Gandhi, Cong says such posturing for personal ambition will help BJP Lok Sabha Elections 2019 updates: Anti-BJP front gains momentum, Naidu meets Sonia Gandhi India oi-Oneindia Staff By Anuj Cariappa New Delhi, May 19: Andhra Pradesh Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday met BSP chief Mayawati and Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav in Lucknow, continuing his efforts to put together a coalition to form the next government at the Centre. He reached Lucknow after meetings in New Delhi with Congress president Rahul Gandhi, CPI leaders G Sudhakar Reddy and D Raja, NCP chief Sharad Pawar and LJD leader Sharad Yadav. The Telugu Desam Party chief has already held several rounds of discussions with various opposition leaders, including TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal and CPI (M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury. Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his two-day visit to Uttarakhand today with a visit to Kedarnath shrine. The prime minister is also expected to offer prayers at Badrinath tomorrow before returning to Delhi in the afternoon. The prime minister's visit to the holy shrine came a day before the last phase of the marathon Lok Sabha elections. Fifty nine parliamentary constituencies, including Varanasi, will go to polls in the seventh and final phase of the Lok Sabha elections and the results will be announced four days later, on May 23. Stay tuned for the Lok Sabha elections 2019 UPDATES: State vs national issues: Key lessons for the BJP to learn in Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Haryana Lok Sabha elections: Congress releases fourth list of 27 candidates India oi-Vikas SV New Delhi, Mar 16: The Congress on Saturday released fourth list of 27 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections 2019. The fourth list has some prominent names like Shashi Tharoor and Nabam Tuki. The fourth list released by the Congress has names of candidates for twelve Lok Sabha seats in Kerala, seven in Uttar Pradesh, five in Chhattisgarh, two in Arunachal Pradesh and one in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The Congress on Friday released its third list of 18 candidates which has names of prominent leaders such as Sushmita Dev, Gaurav Gogoi and Mukul Sangma for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Here is Congress' fourth list for Lok Sabha elections 2019: Congress releases fourth list of 27 candidates (12 Kerala, 7 Uttar Pradesh, 5 Chhattisgarh, 2 Arunachal Pradesh and 1 Andaman & Nicobar islands) for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. pic.twitter.com/E47vi4a8mt ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2019 With fourth list, the Congress has thus far announced 35 candidate for politically crucial state of Uttar Pradesh. [Lok Sabha elections 2019: Congress releases 3rd list of 18 candidates; Dev, Gogoi make the cut] Uttar Pradesh is politically the most important state for Lok Sabha elections as the state sends 80 MPs to the Lower House. Winning 71 out of the 80 seats in previous general elections was one of the important factors which propelled the BJP to power in 2014. The Congress could just win 2 seats in UP in 2014 Lok Sabha elections. A high octane political battle is on the cards in UP and the state will vote on different dates over the 40 days beginning April 11. UP will vote on April 11, 18, 23 and 29 and May 6, 12 and 19. LS polls: Mahagathbandhan to announce Bihar seat-sharing on Mar 18 India pti-PTI Patna, Mar 16: Seat sharing among constituents of the opposition "mahagathbandhan" (grand alliance) in Bihar for the Lok Sabha polls will be announced on March 18, Hindustani Awami Morcha (Secular) president Jitan Ram Manjhi said on Saturday. The announcement will come following another round of talks among partners Sunday, the former Bihar chief minister said. Leaders of the RJD and the Congress also said everything has almost been finalised and the seat sharing would be declared on Monday. "We (grand alliance) will announce our seat sharing for the Lok Sabha polls in the state on March 18 at any cost," Manjhi told reporters here after a meeting of his party's parliamentary board. On Thursday, Bihar Congress Campaign Committee chairman Akhilesh Prasad Singh had said the seat sharing would be declared on Sunday. [Sharad Pawar says Balakot air strike may have been carried out for a political purpose] "I had a talk with Jitan Ram Manjhi who said (RJD leader) Tejashwi Prasad Yadav will not be available tomorrow in the state capital. So the seat sharing among partners in all the 40 Lok Sabha seats will be announced on Monday," state Congress president Madan Mohan Jha told PTI. The 'mahagathbandhan', as the grand alliance is called in local parlance, comprises old allies like the Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal, besides new entrants such as Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP, the HAM(S), Sharad Yadav's Loktantrik Janata Dal and the Vikashsheel Insaan Party, a fledgling outfit floated by former Bollywood set designer Mukesh Sahni. "Two rounds of talks among the grand alliance partners have been held in Delhi and another round will be held in Patna tomorrow," Manjhi said. An agreement has been virtually reached on the number of seats the HAM(S) would contest, Manjhi said without divulging details. He said his party wanted to contest in five Lok Sabha seats in Bihar. Earlier in the day, Manjhi's son Santosh Kumar Suman, an MLC and the party's parliamentary board chairman, said an agreement over 3-4 seats have been reached and the deadlock over the other seats will be resolved Sunday. After the RJD, the HAM(S) has the strongest support base among the grand alliance partners in the state and it is not less than that of the Congress, he asserted. When pointed out that the Congress has been given 11 seats and the HAM(S) only five, Manjhi said the Bihar Congress had demanded 11 seats, but it has not been finalised. The state Congress chief said, "It is difficult to satisfy everyone, given the large number of partners. But everyone would be in a comfortable zone." Everything has almost been finalised with regard to seat sharing in the alliance, RJD spokesperson Mriyunjay Tiwary said. Polling in Bihar will be held in seven phases from April 11 to May 19. PTI Be present in Lok Sabha, RS says BJP in 3 line whip to its MPs Election expenditure: How much did BJP, Congress, DMK, CPI, TMC, AIADMK receive funds and spent during polls? PM Modi kickstarts BJP campaign with main bhi chowkidar pledge; Rahul calls it 'defensive' India oi-Deepika S New Delhi, Mar 16: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' campaign, kick-starting BJP's campaign for Lok Sabha Elections 2019. PM Modi will also interact with people from across the country on 31 March as part of the campaign. Taking to twitter the prime minister wrote, "Your Chowkidar is standing firm & serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar. Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar." Your Chowkidar is standing firm & serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar. Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 16, 2019 The tweet was accompanied by 3 minute 45 second video that begins with the PM addressing the people saying, "Your chowkidar is absolutely alert". The video then moves into a song with visuals of people from across the length and breadth of the country, singing "main bhi chowkidar hun" as part of the chorus of the song. The 'Main bhi chowkidar' program is a similar strategy as 2014 where BJP took on Manishankar Aiyar's Chaiwalla jibe into a mass campaign. BJP likely to release first list of LS polls candidates today BJP in a statement said that the'Mai Bhi Chowkidar' has been started after extensive surveys and data analysis by BJP strategists who feel that Rahul Gandhi's 'Chowkidar Chor Hai' jibes and campaign is not resonating among people. Surveys suggest that it is actually angering people. Modi has often described himself as a "chowkidar" who would neither allow corruption nor get corrupted himself. Congress president Rahul Gandhi hit back at the prime minister's move, asking if he was guilty today. Defensive tweet Mr Modi! You feeling a little guilty today? pic.twitter.com/ztVGRlc599 Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) March 16, 2019 Rahul Gandhi has been repeatedly hurling the "chowkidar chor hai"(watchman is the thief) jibe at Modi to claim irregularities and favouritism in the Rafale fighter jet deal, a charge the BJP-led government has rejected. Morale down: Will the TDP even contest the LS elections in Telangana? India oi-Vicky Nanjappa Hyderabad, Mar 16: Telangana polls on April 11 and would send 17 MPs to the Lok Sabha. A close look at the mood in the state suggests that the TRS is still holding on the sentiment it had in the assembly elections and that may just translate into the Lok Sabha segment as well. The question is who is the challenger for the TRS? The Congress is still reeling under the loss it was handed out in the assembly elections. Although in 2014, the Lok Sabha elections were held in a unified Andhra Pradesh, the Congress did not manage to put up a good performance in the Telangana segment. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the TRS won 11 out of the 17 seats that fell under the Telangana segment. The BJP and AIMM won one seat each, while the Congress bagged just two. The TDP and YSR Congress party too bagged a seat each. [In Andhra, Naidu has explaining to do, while Jagan chugs along] In the 2018 assembly elections, the TDP and Congress partnered together to take on the TRS, but the two parties were rejected by the voter. Following this result, the two parties decided not to contest the polls in an alliance in Andhra Pradesh. The big question is will the TDP even fight the elections in Telangana or focus entirely on Andhra Pradesh, where it is in power. TDP leaders tell OneIndia that it would not skip the Telangana elections, but also added that candidates would not be fielded in every constituency. The leader also said that as per the current plan, they would focus just on 3 seats out of the 17 and in the remaining support the Congress from outside. While a plan has been submitted to TDP chief, Chandrababu Naidu, no decision has been taken as yet. Naidu is facing a tough election in Andhra Pradesh. He is up against Jagan Mohan Reddy and his YSR Congress party. Moreover the state is facing elections to both the assembly and Lok Sabha and hence Naidu has his hands tied. The other issues that are daunting the TDP in Telangana is the lack of candidates. The enthusiasm among the cadres is down in the wake of the recent drubbing in the assembly elections. There are no TDP leaders with mass support and its partner Congress, which is also down is not exactly helping the cause. After the assembly results were out, many had said that it was the alliance which hurt the Congress more as the TDP is seen as an anti-Telangana party. [Amid rebellion, TDP releases first list of candidates for Andhra assembly polls] In the assembly elections, the TDP had secured just 2 seats. One of the two MLAs defaced to the TRS recently. In the 2014 elections, the TDP fought along side the BJP and its candidate Malla Reddy won the Malkajgiri seat. He however switched over to the TRS. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 16, 2019, 17:44 [IST] Is China the reason why Pakistan opted to skip Summit for Democracy hosted by Biden? Pakistan surreptitiously usurped lands belonging to Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara says India India oi-Oneindia Staff By Anuj Cariappa New Delhi, Mar 16: Pakistan has "surreptitiously usurped" lands belonging to the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara in the name of developing a corridor for the convenience of pilgrims and objected to most of the Indian proposals for the project, reflecting its "double-speak", officials said on Friday. The Indian delegation, which attended the first India-Pakistan meeting on Thursday to finalise the modalities for the proposed corridor linking Gurdaspur in Punjab with the Sikh shrine in Pakistan's Kartarpur, strongly protested against the "rampant encroachment" on the lands belonging to the holy Sikh shrine in utter disregard to the sentiments of devotees of Guru Nanak Dev in India. Kartarpur corridor: Punjab BJP chief fumes at Pak over new conditions "Pakistan has lived up to its old reputation of making false promises, making tall claims and delivering nothing. Its double-speak on the Kartarpur Sahib corridor has been exposed in the first meeting itself at Attari on Thursday," a government official, who attended the meeting, said. The encroached lands were donated to the Kartarpur Sahib by devouts like late Maharaja Ranjeet Singh and others. "Lands owned by the gurdwara have been surreptitiously usurped by the government of Pakistan in the name of developing the corridor. A strident demand was made by India for restoration of these lands to the holy gurdwara urgently, keeping in view the strong sentiments on the issue within India," the official said. Pakistan wanted to restrict the duration of Kartarpur agreement to just two years, despite India making it clear that it is executing long-lasting and comprehensive facilities at the border by spending Rs 190 crore. While India has made serious efforts to fulfil the long standing aspiration of the Indian pilgrims and devotees of Guru Nanak Dev for smooth, easy and hassle-free access of pilgrims to Kartarpur Sahib, Pakistan has scuttled the proposals made by New Delhi. "Against the hype created by the Pakistan government and the Pakistan media, its actual offer during the talks turned out to be farcical and mere tokenism. There is a sea of difference between what Pakistan, including Prime Minister Imran Khan, had announced, and in what they offered at Attari meeting. Clearly, Pakistan is not interested in providing Indian pilgrims easy access to Kartarpur Sahib," the official said. While India is executing a state-of-the-art passenger terminal building for visit of over 5,000 pilgrims daily and over 15,000 pilgrims on special occasions like Vaisakhi (falls in mid-April), Pakistan has limited it to mere 700 pilgrims per day. Pakistan did not agree to the Indian demand of allowing daily visits of pilgrims and has restricted it to "visiting days" which will be specified by it. It did not agree to permit travel of devotees on foot or as individuals, and has insisted on movement of groups of 15 and by vehicle, another official said. Despite having assured visa-free passage to Kartarpur Sahib, Pakistan has now brought in, through the back door, the requirement of issuance of special permits by them to pilgrims, that also at a fee, which is "outrageous and defeats" the very purpose of the corridor, the official said. Kartarpur corridor: Pakistan seeks limit to just 500 pilgrims a day and special permit to Yatris Pakistan has restricted the corridor facility to only Indian Passport holders to the exclusion of large number of Overseas Citizens of India card holder devotees. Pakistan is pretending to be blind to the fact that Guru Nanak Dev holds universal appeal, including the large Indian diaspora, the official said. Interestingly, when India and Pakistan had signed a pact in 1974 to facilitate the visit of their pilgrims to the shrines located in each other's territories, Kartarpur Sahib was not included despite repeated Indian requests. Pakistan has so far resisted all attempts to include Kartarpur in the 1974 MoU, the official said. As per that agreement, there are 15 shrines in Pakistan and seven in India where each other's pilgrims can visit. Kartarpur Sahib marks the place where Sikhism's founder, Guru Nanak Dev, spent the final years of his life. It is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the river Ravi, about four kilometres from the international border. Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh had on November 26, 2018 laid the corridor's foundation stone + in Gurdaspur. Two days later, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone at Narowal, 125 km from Lahore. India hopes that the special border crossing for pilgrims will open before Guru Nanak Dev's 550th birth anniversary in November 2019. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 16, 2019, 6:12 [IST] Patidar leader, Reshma Patel quits BJP, calls it a marketing party to promote hollow schemes India oi-Oneindia Staff By Anuj Cariappa Rajkot, Mar 16: Patidar leader, Reshma Patel quit the BJP accusing the party of being a marketing company to promote hollow schemes. She also announced that she would contest the Lok Sabha elections from Porbandar as an independent, if she is not offered a ticket by any mainstream party. I have decided to relieve myself from the BJP as the party uses its workers and leaders only for marketing its hollow schemes, she said. I have also decided to contest the elections from the Porbandar parliamentary constutuency. I request the opposition parties to come on one platform, clear their stand about the Porbandar seat, she also said. I appeal them to give an opportunity to a woman to contest the election so that the representation increases. If that does not happen, I will contest as an independent, she also added. BJP-Apna Dal deal sealed in Uttar Pradesh Reshma had stepped into the limelight during the Patidar agitation. She was a part of the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS), a group launched by Hardik Patel to run the campaign. While Hardik Patel leaned towards the Congress, Reshma joined the BJP in the run up to the assembly polls in 2017. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 16, 2019, 6:58 [IST] 2 fliers test Covid-19 positive in Tamil Nadu: TN Govt says tests will only ascertain if Omicron variant Poll code violation: TN orders inquiry on Rahul's interaction with students India oi-PTI Chennai, Mar 16: The Tamil Nadu government has ordered an inquiry on how a college here gave its approval for Congress President Rahul Gandhi to interact with its students when the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for elections is in force. The top Congress leader, in his interaction with students of the Stella Maris College here on March 13, promised 33 per cent reservation in government jobs for women and answered several of their questions. The Director of Collegiate Education, R Sarumathi directed a subordinate official to inquire "immediately" on the matter and submit a report, official sources told PTI. In a communique (dated March 14) to the Regional Joint Director, Chennai Zone, the director said in view of the Lok Sabha elections the MCC was in force and under such circumstances, sought to know "how permission was granted" by the college for the event. Sources said Stella Maris is one of the 10 government aided colleges in Chennai. Such institutions are not only bound by State norms, but are also expected to follow the MCC. Probe Robert Vadra, but investigate, Modi too says Rahul Gandhi in Tamil Nadu According to the MCC, displayed in the Election Commission website, "use of educational institutions, including their grounds (whether government aided, private or government) for political campaigns and rallies is not allowed." When contacted, the college authorities declined to say if any inquiry was conducted by collegiate department officials. The Chief Electoral Officer also did not comment. Tamil Nadu Congress Committee President KS Alagiri dubbed the inquiry move as an act of "vendetta," by the BJP-led government at the Centre through the AIADMK regime in Tamil Nadu unable to tolerate the positive response especially from the youth to the event. Political leaders taking part in college functions has been in vogue for a long time, he said. The decision to invite Gandhi was taken a few months ago by the students association of the college. Rahul Gandhi took part in the event only in his capacity as a Member of Parliament and not as the Congress president, he claimed, adding "the Model Code of Conduct is not a bar to participate in such events as an MP." When Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer Satyabrata Sahoo had said there was "no violation" of the MCC, what right does the Collegiate department have to pursue the matter, he asked. "If the Tamil Nadu government came forward to take steps against the reputed Stella Maris College, I would like to warn that it will lead to severe consequences," he said. The Congress leader demanded withdrawal of the official communication tasking an official to probe the matter. In his interaction with the students, Gandhi had brought up the issue of the Rafale deal and reiterated his allegations about the pricing of the aircraft and the process. To a question on his brother-in-law Robert Vadra, he had said the law must apply to everybody and not be applied selectively. "I will be the first person to say it... investigate Robert Vadra, but also investigate Prime Minister Narendra Modi," he said. Vadra is being probed in connection with a money laundering case related to purchase of assets abroad and a land case in Rajasthan's Bikaner district. Gandhi also questioned whether the Prime Minister could stand in a large audience and answer people's questions. PTI For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 16, 2019, 8:40 [IST] Sharad Pawar says Balakot air strike may have been carried out for a political purpose India pti-PTI Mumbai, Mar 16: NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Saturday said there were "murmurs" of doubt among people on whether the post-Pulwama attack airstrike on February 26 on a Jaish-e-Mohammed camp in Pakistan had a "political purpose". In an interview to PTI, the Maratha strongman said cross-border surgical strikes took place every year, adding that had he been the defence minister now, he would not have milked the issue for political benefits, but would only have worked in the interest of the nation. Pawar said being a former defence minister, he was aware of the capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force, adding that no one could challenge their might. "However, this government has lost credibility in the eyes of the public at large. That is why there are murmurs among the people whether it (the airstrike after the February 14 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama) was for a political purpose or not, whether certain actions were taken just to regain credibility," he claimed. "Such surgical attacks have happened many times. Every year there is something at the India-Pakistan border. If something happens from their side, our forces respond effectively. It has not just happened once or twice, but so many instances," he said. Stating that he would not have made noise immediately after such a military action to show the world how strong his forces were, Pawar said, "I would have kept mum and taught a lesson to anyone trying to create a problem for my nation. However, my approach would not have been for political exploitation, but only to protect the interest of the nation." Asked if according to him, Rahul Gandhi would be an effective prime ministerial candidate, the Rajya Sabha MP said the Congress chief himself had not staked claim to the post in case the opposition "mahagathbandhan" (grand alliance) won a majority in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. [NCP chief Sharad Pawar won't contest Lok Sabha polls, says '2 family members are contesting'] Stating that Gandhi's mission was in the larger interest of the nation, which was to oust the current Bharatiya Janata Party-led government, the former Maharashtra chief minister asserted that all the parties in the grand alliance were ready to help and cooperate towards that aim. Asked about his own prime ministerial ambitions, he said the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) would contest hardly 25 seats in the polls starting April 11. "I can coordinate but I do not expect that with a number of 25 or 26 (Lok Sabha seats), one can ultimately take up such a major responsibility. But my party's efforts will definitely be to bring together like-minded forces and see that the BJP and their friends do not get the requisite numbers," Pawar added. PTI J&K downgraded to UT from state, like a CM demoting to MLA: Ghulam Nabi Azad If normalcy to be brought in Kashmir, Article 370 has to be reinstated: Farooq Abdullah JKSSB SI Recruitment 2021: Last date to apply for 800 Sub Inspector posts, direct link here Special Police Officer shot dead in Shopian India oi-Chennabasaveshwar P Shopian , Mar 16: Special Police Officer (SPO) Khushboo Jan of Shopian district 's Vehil village was shot dead by unidentified assailants at her house on Saturday. According to local media reports, the gunmen fired upon the woman SPO namely Khushboo Jan at around 2:40 pm at her home in Vehil. In the incident, Khushboo suffered serious bullet wounds and was shifted to the nearby hospital where she succumbed to her injuries," they said. US, UK, France In 'intense' talks with China over listing of Masood Azhar This incident occurred two days after a former Special Police Officer was shot dead by terrorists in broad day light in a village in Pulwama district of South Kashmir. The deceased was identified as Ashiq Ahmed Nayek, they said. The terrorists, believed to be from Jaish-e-Muhammed, fired at Nayek while he was walking on a road in Pingleena area, where three terrorists were neutralised in an encounter on February 18, reported PTI. Telangana Lok Sabha elections 2019: Will this poll be KCRs big ticket on the national scene? India oi-Vicky Nanjappa Hyderabad, Mar 16: K Chandrashekhar Rao returned as the Chief Minister of Telangana with a bigger mandate when compared to 2014, when the first election in India's newest state was held. While KCR came up as a topper in the assembly segment, the Lok Sabha elections this year would be his big test on the national scene. With several surveys throwing up hung mandates, the election in Telangana would be crucial for the TRS, which has been trying to form a federal front. Telangana Congress leader likens PM Modi to terrorist Telangana sends 17 elected representatives to the Lok Sabha. The state was formed on June 2 2014. The 2014 Lok Sabha elections was the last election that a united Andhra Pradesh took part in. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the TRS won 11 out of the 17 seats that fell under the Telangana segment. The BJP and AIMM won one seat each, while the Congress bagged just two. The TDP and YSR Congress party too bagged a seat each. Political analysts say that the TRS would be looking to improve its tally. The party has set its eyes on 15 seats and is hopeful of attaining that feat. If one goes by the performance of the TRS in the assembly segment, then 15 does not look like a difficult number to attain, analysts also point out. One of the main problems daunting Telangana is that of jobs. Farmer suicides owing to low food prices, rising farm costs are the other major issues in the state. KCR would once again try and ride on his scheme Rytha Bandhu, an investment support initiative for the farmers. However, he would also have to deal with the complaints that the tenant farmer has not gained much from it. Andhra Pradesh: TDP faces data theft charge for poll manipulation In Telangana, the Congress looks like a non-starter. Despite being the party that decided to award a separate state, it was unable to capitalise on the sentiment in the 2014 elections, both in the assembly and Lok Sabha segment. While there was talk that the Congress would be rewarded in the next election, that did not take place and the results in the recently concluded assembly elections is a testimony of that fact. In the assembly segment, TRS won 88 of the 119 seats with a vote share of 46.9 per cent. The Congress came second with just 28.4 per cent of the votes. The question is will this translate into the national polls as well. Speaking to people on the ground, one gets the impression that the sentiment is still in favour of KCR and nothing much has changed since the assembly polls. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 16, 2019, 16:22 [IST] List of 28 agreements/MoUs signed during the 21st India-Russia Annual Summit in New Delhi The Indo-Myanmar mega operation to protect Kaladan project: How it unfolded India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Mar 16: To avert a possible threat to the Kaladan multi modal transit transport project, the armies of India and Myanmar conducted a coordination operation against insurgents between February 17 and March 2, sources said. The Indian Army however did not cross the border during the operation, the official also informed OneIndia. The focus of the operation was to crack down on the members of the Arakan Army, an insurgent group in Myanmar, the source said. The members of the Arakan Army had also moved close to the international border along Mizoram, they said. Myanmar takes the battle to NSCN-K The sources added that during the operation, the Indian Army beefed up the security along the border from Nagaland and Manipur to ensure that the insurgents do not cross over to the Indian side. The Indian Army also helped the Myanmarese Army by providing them intelligence, they said. There were also inputs that some members of the Arakan Army were also planning to sneak into India. The sources said setting up of camps by the insurgent groups was being viewed as a grave concern by armies of the two countries. The operation was also undertaken keeping in view the safety of Indian workers engaged in the project. After a series of meetings between personnel from both the countries, it was decided to carry out the coordinated operation. Additional troops were moved to the international border areas, besides deploying the Assam Rifles personnel. The Assam Rifles has the responsibility to guard the international border with Myanmar. The Kaladan multi-modal transit transport project is being viewed as India's gateway to the Southeast Asia. India entered into a framework agreement with Myanmar in April 2008 to facilitate implementation of the project. On completion, the project will help connect Mizoram with the Sittwe Port in Rakhine State of Myanmar. On the Indian side, work is on to extend the Aizawl-Saiha National Highway by 90 km to the international border at Zorinpui. 'Will no longer take in Myanmar refugees': Bangladesh tells UN It may be recalled that on March 2, the Myanmar army took over the headquarters of the NSCN-K at the Taga area. The action was taken after the NSCN-K had refused to follow an order to drive out the non-citizen terrorists and armed rebels from their camps. The operation was carried out by 500 security personnel of the Myanmar army. The rebels were told to return to India, instead of trying to set up fresh camps in Myanmar. The army said that it had not resorted to aggressive military action on the insurgents. The army dismantled the hideouts of the Indian insurgent groups and also took physical control over the headquarters of the outfit. This action came in the wake of ULFA-I chief, Paresh Baruah trying to motivate his men not to leave Myanmar. The entire operation was to ensure the prevention of illegal armed and insurgent groups infiltrating into Myanmar soil. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 16, 2019, 5:54 [IST] What's the problem, asks BC Khanduri on his son joining Congress India oi-Vikas SV Dehradun, Mar 16: Former Uttarakhand chief minister BC Khanduri, whose son Manish Khanduri joined the Congress, on Saturday asked why questions are being raised about his son joining the grand old party, adding, "He will go wherever he wants." Many media reports dubbed it as an embarrassment to the BJP. Rahul Gandhi even tried to corner the BJP over Manish joining the Congress. Gandhi alleged that BC Khanduri was removed as the chairman of defence committee of Parliament by PM Modi for asking a question on national security. "He is an educated young man. He will go wherever he wants. I fail to understand why questions are being raised. It's not that he has to follow me everywhere. I contributed to BJP, not him. He was never in BJP," BC Khanduri told ANI. After joining Congress today in presence of party chief Rahul Gandhi, Manish Khanduri said, "I believe that under Rahul Gandhi's leadership, Congress will make country stronger. Before coming here, I sought blessings of my father. He asked me if I can walk on path of truth. I replied yes." Khanduri Sr is a sitting Lok Sabha member from Pauri, from where the Congress is expected to field his son this time. [Former Uttarakhand CM's son joins Congress] Manish's sister Ritu Khanduri is a BJP legislator from Yamkeshwar seat which falls in Pauri Lok Sabha, the family's bastion. In the 2014 elections, she had won with a margin of over 20,000 votes. Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister BC Khanduri and senior BJP leader Bhagat Singh Koshiyari, also a former Chief Minister, from the state have expressed his inability to contest 2019 Lok Sabha elections. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 16, 2019, 19:34 [IST] J&K downgraded to UT from state, like a CM demoting to MLA: Ghulam Nabi Azad If normalcy to be brought in Kashmir, Article 370 has to be reinstated: Farooq Abdullah JKSSB SI Recruitment 2021: Last date to apply for 800 Sub Inspector posts, direct link here Woman SPO shot dead: PDP, NC condemn killing India pti-PTI Srinagar, Mar 16: The PDP and the National Conference on Saturday condemned the killing of a woman special police officer (SPO) by militants at her home in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir. PDP president and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti said the vicious cycle of death and destruction seems to have no end in the Valley. "I strongly condemn this brutal act of terror. My condolences to the family. This vicious cycle of death and destruction seems to have no end," she wrote on Twitter. [Special Police Officer shot dead in Shopian] NC vice president Omar Abdullah also condemned the killing of the woman SPO. "A lady special police officer (SPO) was shot & killed outside her home in South Kashmir earlier today. I condemn this act of terror & extend my condolences to her family & all her J&K police colleagues," he tweeted. Militants shot SPO Khushboo Jan from close range at her home at Vehil in Shopian district earlier this afternoon, a police official said. She was shifted to a nearby hospital where she succumbed, he said. PTI Election expenditure: How much did BJP, Congress, DMK, CPI, TMC, AIADMK receive funds and spent during polls? Opposition front not possible without Congress: Shiv Sena leader Raut after meeting with Rahul Gandhi Mamata Banerjee's TMC gives yet another jolt to Congress in Meghalaya; 11 members switch sides Goa Congress hit by several resignations on day of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's visit You are Suit Boot Ka Chowkidaar: Congress takes jibe at Modi's online campaign India oi-Deepika S New Delhi, Mar 16: Hours after PM Narendra Modi launched his latest campaign with the hashtag #MainBhiChowkidar , the Congress took a swipe at the online campaign with hashtags #IndiaBewakoofNahiHai and #SuitBootKaChowkidar. In its tweet, Congress alleged that all PM Modi has done is to help big industrialists like Anil Ambani and Gautam Adani. Earlier in the day, PM Modi urged his supporters to take the 'main bhai chowkidar' (I too am watchman) pledge, saying he is not alone in the fight against graft and social evils. PM Modi comes up with 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' campaign, says I am not alone "Your Chowkidar is standing firm & serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar. Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar," he wrote on Twitter. He also posted a little over three minute video to drive home his message. Modi has often described himself as a "chowkidar" who would neither allow corruption nor get corrupted himself. Congress president Rahul Gandhi has been repeatedly hurling the "chowkidar chor hai"(watchman is the thief) jibe at Modi to claim irregularities and favouritism in the Rafale fighter jet deal, a charge the BJP-led government has rejected. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 16, 2019, 14:08 [IST] Several evacuated, some by chopper, from New Zealand floods New Zealand mass shooting: Trump says white nationalism not a widespread threat International oi-PTI Washington, Mar 16: US President Donald Trump said he does not think the massacre of at least 49 people in New Zealand mosques shows that white nationalism is a growing problem in the world. "I don't really. I think it's a small group of people," he told reporters in the Oval Office Friday. The attacks on the two Christchurch mosques left at least 49 people dead. The gunman - identified as an Australian white nationalist - apparently livestreamed the assault and published a manifesto online. The alleged killer appeared to have posted a lengthy manifesto earlier in which he claimed that white people were being overwhelmed and displaced by foreign cultures. Barefoot, handcuffed, New Zealand shooter smirks in court In the document, filled with racist conspiracy theories, he referred to Trump as "a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose." Asked if he'd seen the manifesto, Trump said: "I did not see it." Earlier, he announced that he'd spoken with New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern about the "horrific" massacre of Muslim worshippers. PTI For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 16, 2019, 11:23 [IST] New Zealand High Commission drops oxygen SOS to Congress says Sorry Several evacuated, some by chopper, from New Zealand floods Barefoot, handcuffed, New Zealand shooter smirks in court International pti-PTI Christchurch (New Zealand), Mar 16: Twenty-eight-year-old Brenton Tarrant appeared in court on Saturday charged with murder, after a terror attack on two Christchurch mosques that left 49 dead. The Australian-born former fitness instructor and self-professed fascist sat impassively as the judge read the charge against him. New Zealand mosque attacks: Survivors recall chilling massacre Handcuffed, barefoot wearing a white prison suit, Tarrant did not speak. Flanked by two police officers, he smirked when media persons photographed him during the hearing and was seen making the white power gesture, New Zealand Herald reported. Throughout the hearing, Brenton Tarrant, who had a cut on his upper lip, remained silent and looked at the media persons in the public gallery. His court-appointed lawyer made no application for bail or name suppression. He was likely to face further charges, police said. Nine people from India or of Indian origin have gone missing, the Indian envoy in New Zealand has said. Two Indians have died in the attacks, a third person is battling for his life, Asaduddin Owaisi, the leader of AIMIM (All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen Party) said. "As per updates received from multiple sources there are 9 missing persons of indian nationality/ origin. Official confirmation still awaited. Huge crime against humanity. Our prayers with their families," High Commissioner Sanjiv Kohli tweeted. PTI Send love to Muslims, NZ PM to Trump International oi-Shubham Ghosh Wellington, March 16: New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Saturday, March 16, told US President Donald Trump over phone that the best way the latter help the situation in the wake of the horrific terror attack in Christchurch is by sending love and sympathy for Muslim communities, New Zealand's 'Stuff' reported. The 38-year-old leader spoke to Trump before flying to the city of Christchurch which is still in shock after indiscriminate shooting in two mosques during Friday, March 15, led to the death of 49 people and left several injured. Ardern said Trump condoled the deaths and asked if there was any way the US could help the grief-stricken nation, known to be one of the most peaceful in the world. "He asked what offer of support the United States could provide. My message was: 'Sympathy and love for all Muslim communities'," Ardern said. 'Our gun laws will change': New Zealand PM vows reform after mosque massacre Trump also said that he didn't believe that white supremacy was a growing threat adding it was "a small group of people". The US president has been in the past heard uttering anti-Muslim words saying people from the community should be tracked and that they should be banned from the US. He also claimed that "Islam hates us". The New Zealand premier was also asked many times whether she thought the intelligence agencies were more occupied with Islamic terror and not white supremacy and she replied that the agencies had been monitoring extremism from all aspects and added that the three arrested persons did not feature in any terror watch-list and had zero criminal records. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Saturday, March 16, 2019, 14:42 [IST] US, UK, France In 'intense' talks with China over listing of Masood Azhar International pti-PTI Washington, Mar 16: The US and two other permanent Security Council members, France and Britain, are believed to be in intense "good faith" discussions with China to arrive at a "compromise" on the UN designation of Jaish chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. And if that effort does not end up in the formal designation of Azhar, the three permanent members are planning to soon move a resolution for his listing in the most powerful wing of the UN which would be preceded by an open debate on the issue, according to people familiar with the matter. On Wednesday, China blocked for the fourth consecutive time a resolution at a UN Security Council Committee on designating Azhar, head of the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad group, as a global terrorist. The proposal was moved by the US, France and the UK. France freezes assets of chief JeM Masood Azhar India had expressed disappointment over the Chinese stance and the original co-sponsors of the resolution had warned they will consider "other actions" to achieve their goal. While the internal consultations of the Security Council committee remain private, this time several Council members, frustrated at China's unreasonable stance to protect a terrorist, privately spoke to the media the negative role being played by Beijing. "If China continues to block this designation, responsible member-states may be forced to pursue other actions at the Security Council. It shouldn't have to come to that," a Security Council diplomat said on Wednesday in an unusual tough warning to Beijing. In the last 50 hours, it is believed that the original sponsors of the Azhar resolution are having intense "good faith" consultations with China on what many familiar with the matter describe as a "compromise". This probably means Azhar would be designated as a global terrorist by the UN body, but the language of designation would include a language acceptable to China. China is believed to have suggested "certain changes" in the language of the terrorist designation. The US, Britain and France are believed to be currently looking at the suggestions. It is understood that there is back-and-forth exchange of texts on the matter. The three countries have indicated that they are willing to accommodate Chinese request for changes in the language as long as it does not change the substance of the resolution and it ends up designating Azhar as a UN global terrorist. But unlike in the past, the US, France, Britain and other members of the Security Council are not willing to wait for long to conclude their discussion with China. It is learnt that China has been informed by these countries that they are seriously looking for other options, in particular an open debate followed by a vote on a resolution to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, pretty soon. Not months, not weeks but days. This is the what Beijing has been conveyed. At the same time, officials of the these countries believe that China this time has been much more co-operative than in the past. But in case at any point the three countries get a feeling that China is not doing a good faith negotiation on the "compromise formula" that is being negotiated, they are ready with the other move. China, after its decision to put a technical hold on the resolution, has invited criticism and its stance has also resulted in an outrage in India. Beijing would have to calculate the risk of being isolate globally on the issue of fight against terrorism or signing off to a compromised language that would designate Azhar as a global terrorist, since except China, all other UNSC members supported the resolution. Getting Chinese support to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, at the UN, in any format, would be considered as a terrific accomplishment. The very fact that there has been discussions going on between China and the US, Britain and France, is considered as a positive development. Those familiar with China's working pattern are still not confident and that's the reason why they are seriously working on other options including an open debate in the Security Council, where Beijing might find it difficult to defend a terrorist in public. PTI What's driving the Structural Insulation Panels Market Size Key Players are: Kingspan, Romakowski GmbH & Co. KG, Lattonedil Spa Milano, and Isopan https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/980162/?utm_source=openpr-VHS https://www.marketstudyreport.com/check-for-discount/980162 https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/structural-insulation-panels-sips-market https://www.marketstudyreport.com https://www.marketstudyreport.com/blog The latest Structural Insulation Panels Market Research Report 2025 contains complete Industry outlook, Market size manufacturers and key statistics analysis. The industry sales and Share, industrys trends are all discussed, explained and analyzed. It provides Market sizeing strategy analysis, distributors/traders list, raw materials analysis, import and export analysis, Key success factors and Supply Chain Analysis.Wall panels dominated the overall industry and is expected to witness highest growth over the forecast period. Substantial reduction in the construction time of wall and labor cost are key factors supplementing product penetration. The factory-built SIPs eliminate the need to cut the material on job site which eliminates delays and enables quick interior finishing. Substantial reduction in the construction time of wall and labor cost are key factors supplementing product penetration.Request a sample of this premium report titled atIncreasing consumer awareness pertaining to rising electricity bills and the necessity for energy-efficient building techniques have stimulated the product demand across residential as well as commercial buildings. The necessity for effective energy conservation due to the rising energy demand along with growing concerns regarding resource scarcity will propel the SIP market. The implementation of several programs such as LEED, Energy Star building certification, and ICC?s Model Energy Codes is likely to influence industry dynamics over the forecast period.Glass wool is expected to witness significant growth owing to increasing demand for thermal and acoustic insulation. Strong applications scope for reducing the energy consumption of buildings, offering a conducive environment and reducing fuel utilization will positively support product penetration over the forecast timeline. It is widely used in attics, critical opening spaces, and wall cavities. Amplified growth of new housing developments and overall building construction expenditure will drive industry gains.Structural insulation panels industry size is driven by rapid technological advancements in the construction industry. These technologies consist of various precast, modular, and prefabricated building structures, specially designed for residential and commercial sectors. Additionally, a growing population and rising consumer concerns regarding energy-saving building materials will drive industry development. Developing economies including Brazil, India, China, and Mexico will significantly trigger product development due to a large consumer base along with a shifting trend for modern building installations.OSB one side skin type is estimated to witness a growth of over 7% up to 2024. They are widely used and applied on the roofing, siding, and wall structures of residential buildings. It provides excellent insulation from heat, moisture, and humid conditions and offers outstanding benefits over its counterparts owing to its compatibility with fixed structures. These benefits have increased the adoption in building construction fueling the industry share.The residential sector accounted for over 50% of the market share by 2024 and will continue to maintain its dominance over the forecast period. Infrastructural expansion is a major factor that will drive the use of SIPs in the residential market during the forecast timeframe. Socioeconomic development along with housing subsidies by governments will positively impact the market expansion. Household renovations have observed a strong demand in the past and are anticipated to witness significant gains over the forecast timespan. Affordable housing schemes along with the expansion of zero-energy homes supported by regional authorities are expected to provide a profitable opportunity for manufacturers.Request a discount on standard prices of this premium report titled atNorth America is projected to exceed USD 200 million by 2024. The constant development of the business in the regional economy, along with its openness to imports, has provided an impetus to the international trade scenario for these products. The region is expected to witness growing investments towards house refurbishment and repair. Additionally, the growing infrastructure development owing to high economic growth and expanding immigrant population in the region is expected to support business growth.The global structural insulation panel minerals market is highly competitive owing to the presence of a few dominating companies including Kingspan, Romakowski GmbH & Co. KG, Lattonedil Spa Milano, and Isopan. Their prime initiatives to improve the market share include new product launches, geographical expansions, R&D investments, and mergers & acquisitions. This helps them explore the untapped market potential. Companies are also focusing on implementing forward and backward integrations across the value chain.Report ContentChapter 1 Methodology & Scope1.1 Research methodology1.1.1 Initial data exploration1.1.2 Statistical model and forecast1.1.3 Industry insights and validation1.1.4 Definitions1.1.5 Assumption, scope & forecast parameters1.2 Data sources1.2.1 Secondary Sources1.2.2 Primary SourcesChapter 2 Executive Summary2.1 Structural insulation panels industry 360 degree synopsis, 2013 - 20242.1.1 Business trends2.1.2 Product trends2.1.3 Skin type trends2.1.4 Application trends2.1.5 End use trends2.1.6 Regional trendsChapter 3 Structural Insulation Panels Industry Insights3.1 Industry segmentation3.2 Industry landscape, 2013- 20243.3 Industry ecosystem analysis3.3.1 Raw Material3.3.2 Manufacturers3.3.3 Distribution Channel3.3.3.1 Direct distribution3.3.3.2 Online sales channel3.3.3.3 Resellers3.3.3.4 Wholesale3.3.3.5 Retail3.3.4 Profit margin trends3.3.5 Vendor matrix3.4 Technology landscape3.4.1 Production process3.4.1.1 With polystyrene core3.4.1.2 With polyurethane core3.4.1.2.1 Polymer reactions3.4.1.2.2 Processing3.4.2 Upcoming production process trends3.4.2.1 Manufacturing of composite structural insulated panels (CSIPs)3.5 Raw material trends3.5.1 Glass3.5.2 Stone3.5.3 Polystyrene3.5.4 Polyurethane3.5.5 Phenols3.5.6 Polyisocyanurate3.6 Global construction industry outlook, 20173.6.1 Rise in construction spending3.7 Current trend of green building3.7.1 Energy efficiency of buildings with SIP3.7.2 Comparative analysis SIP vs conventional construction methods3.7.3 Environmental concerns & BioSIPs3.7.4 Cost analysis SIP vs stick frame3.7.4.1 Walls3.7.4.2 Electrical3.7.4.3 Roof and Dormers3.8 Regulatory landscape3.8.1 North America3.8.1.1 Method A (Perspective Component Method)3.8.1.2 Method B (Empirical Full-Scale Test Method)3.8.2 Europe3.8.2.1 European union3.8.3 Asia Pacific3.8.3.1 China3.8.4 Latin America3.8.4.1 Brazil3.8.4.2 Mexico3.8.5 Middle East & Africa3.8.5.1 UAE3.9 Consumer buying behavior3.9.1 Unmet needs3.9.2 Social & cultural impact forces3.9.3 Information search3.9.4 Evaluation of alternatives3.9.5 Purchase decision3.9.6 Post purchase behaviour3.10 Pricing analysis, 2013 - 20243.10.1 Regional pricing3.10.1.1 North America3.10.1.2 Europe3.10.1.3 Asia Pacific3.10.1.4 Latin America3.10.1.5 Middle East and Africa3.10.2 Cost structure analysis3.10.2.1 Material cost3.10.2.2 Labour & manufacturing cost3.10.2.3 Technology cost3.10.2.4 R&D3.10.2.5 Miscellaneous3.11 Industry impact forces3.11.1 Growth drivers3.11.1.1 Favorable governments regulations & programs supporting the construction of green buildings3.11.1.2 Growing thermal insulation materials market3.11.2 Industry pitfalls & challenges3.11.2.1 Higher product costs along with stringent regulations on raw materials3.12 Innovation, sustainability, & new product launches3.13 Growth potential analysis, 20173.14 Competitive landscape, 20173.14.1 Market share analysis, 20163.14.2 Top players overview3.14.3 Key stakeholders3.14.4 Strategy dashboard3.15 Porter's analysis3.16 PESTEL analysisChapter 4 Structural Insulation Panels Market, By Product4.1 Global structural insulation panels market share by product, 2017 & 20244.2 Glass wool4.3 Stone wool4.4 EPS4.5 XPS4.6 Phenolics4.7 PU/PIR4.8 Flexible InsulationChapter 5 Structural Insulation Panels Market, By Skin Type5.1 Global structural insulation panels market share by skin type, 2017 & 20245.2 OSB two sides5.3 OSB one side5.4 OthersComplete report titled atAbout 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 Report LLC4 North Main Street,Selbyville, Delaware 19975USAPhone: 1-302-273-0910US Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150Email: sales@marketstudyreport.comWebsite:Blog: Offshore Lubricants Market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 3.7% during 2018 to 2025 | Vital Players are Royal Dutch Shell, Chevron, ExxonMobil, Castrol, British Petroleum, Sinopec, Idemitsu Kosan, JX Nippon Oil & Energy Corp. https://www.researchcosmos.com/reports/global-offshore-lubricants-market-professional-survey-report-2018/59399463 https://www.researchcosmos.com/request/global-offshore-lubricants-market-professional-survey-report-2018/59399463 https://www.researchcosmos.com/inquire/global-offshore-lubricants-market-professional-survey-report-2018/59399463 www.researchcosmos.com https://acutemarketinsights.com https://marketreportsweb.com/ Offshore Lubricants Market Size and Growth Rate:Offshore Lubricants Market was valued at USD xx billion in 2017 and projected to reach USD 9.12 billion by 2025 growing at a CAGR of 3.7% during the forecast period 2018 to 2025.Offshore Lubricants Market Overview:Lubricants are used for various offshore applications, such as turbines, boat engines, hydraulic equipment, gear boxes and offshore machinery. Minimize machine wear and improve overall operating efficiency.Browse details of 103 number of pages research report developed on Offshore Lubricants Market @Offshore Lubricants Market Growth Drivers and Restraints:The growth of offshore oil and gas exploration and production, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico, the Caspian Sea, the Arabian Sea and the Red Sea, is expected to stimulate global industry during the forecast period. Regulatory policies play a vital role in the development of the industry. Regulators such as US EPA, REACH and US ECHA are constantly evolving, developing and establishing environmental policies related to their use. The global market is characterized by volatility in the prices of basic products, together with strict environmental regulations for the manufacture of conventional lubricants. To overcome these challenges, manufacturers have worked with biotechnology companies to develop alternatives based on biologics. This is supported by government favors and tax incentives for the use of clean technologies.Geographic Insights of Offshore Lubricants Market:The Asia Pacific region was the largest consumer in the global market and accounted for more than 27% of the total volume in the previous years. It is expected that the intensification of offshore projects in India, Indonesia, Malaysia and China will boost the growth of the Asia Pacificregion over the period of projection.On the other hand, economic growth has facilitated the development of maritime trade in this region. As a result, shipping traffic has increased significantly in the recent years. It is expected that this factor will strengthen the demand for lubricants in the high seas in Asia-Pacific.Ask Free Sample of the report @Key Market Players of Offshore Lubricants Market:The global offshore lubricants market share was dominated by top four companies, Royal Dutch Shell, Chevron, ExxonMobil, and Castrol, collectively accounting for 46%. The market has the presence of numerous independent producers who command 1/3rd of the overall market share. Other key players with a global presence include Total S.A., British Petroleum, Sinopec, Idemitsu Kosan, JX Nippon Oil & Energy Corp. and Lukoil.Offshore Lubricants Market Key Segmentation:Offshore Lubricants Market By Type: Engine Oil Hydraulic Oil Gear Oil GreaseOffshore Lubricants Market By Application: Offshore Rigs FPSOs OSVsBy Region: North America South America Europe Asia Pacific Middle East and AfricaFor any queries, inquire more @About Us:Research Cosmos is a provider of standard and customized market research, business intelligence and consulting services across more than 100 domains in different industries of the world. We host the trending market reports of the worlds top-notch publishing companies, offering services to a wide range of customers from students to fortune 500 companies and discloses the hidden opportunities in every leading industry of the world.Contact:Kevin StewartGlobal Sales ManagerResearch CosmosBlog:Blog: Global Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Market Myriad Advances Evaluated By Global Players Bayer AG, Medtronic, Inc., Animas Corporation Global Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Market https://bit.ly/2BV9iXL https://bit.ly/2H9UXKN Diabetes is a major global concern that, as per International Diabetes Federation (IDF) data, affected around 415 million people in 2015. Effective management of diabetes is vital, especially considering the sedentary lifestyle that most people across the globe have taken up. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems offer effective solution in diabetes management through continuous real-time glucose monitoring. Increasing awareness, supporting safety evidences for CGM systems and growing demand for point-of-care (POC) devices are major factors driving demand across the globe. However, high prices of these systems and the rather cumbersome experience of wearing of these relatively obtrusive gadgets throughout the day is currently restraining its demand in the low and middle income countries, where there is inadequate penetration of healthcare IT products and services.For In depth Information Get Sample Copy of this Report @Market Dynamics:Demand for point-of-care (POC) diagnostic devices, and growing self-monitoring trends across the globe. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), the global diabetic population in 2015 was 415 million and is expected to reach 642 million by 2040. Increasing awareness about CGM devices among the diabetic population is projected to be a major factor driving demand for the device in the near future. Moreover, patients are increasingly inclined towards real-time health monitoring, which is possible through CGM systems. Conversely, high prices of devices and calibration issues are key challenges that can inhibit market growth. Companies therefore, need to improve upon the accuracy of the device, which in turn would encourage healthcare practitioners to recommend the use of CGM devices among diabetic patients.Rapid increase in demand for CGM devices, especially in emerging economies, is mainly attributed to increasing consumer awareness regarding the importance of monitoring presence of glucose in the body in order to sustain a healthy life:North America and Europe were the largest markets for continuous glucose monitoring, collectively accounting for over 75% share of the global continuous glucose monitoring market in 2015. This was mainly owing to new product launches, rapid adoption of new technologies, and high product awareness in these developed regions. However, with increasing prevalence of diabetes in emerging economies such as India, China, Taiwan, Brazil, South Korea, and South Africa, demand for CGM devices is expected to witness a steep incline in these countries over the forecast period.According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), around 75% of the diabetic population lives in low and middle income countries such as Mexico, India, China, Brazil, Colombia, Libya, Iran, and Turkey. Asia-Pacific accounted for over 50% of the global diabetic population in 2015, with prevalence rate being the highest in China and India. Market penetration in these countries is relatively low, mainly due to high prices of CGM devices. However, the scenario in Asia Pacific region is expected to change in the near future due to increasing patient awareness and decreasing prices of these systems., which would change the industry dynamics and impact the market growth positively, expanding at a CAGR of 15% during the forecast period.Global players need to explore the untapped geographies and simultaneously should focus on upgrading their CGM technologyCompetitor Analysis:Major players in the global continuous glucose monitoring market include,Abbott Laboratories, Roche Diagnostics, Dexcom Inc., Bayer AG, Medtronic, Inc., Animas Corporation, Nova Biomedical Corporation, Ypsomed AG, GlySens Incorporated, Insulet Corporation, and Sensionics Incorporated.Inquire Here Before Purchase Of This Research Report @About Coherent Market Insights:Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity.Contact Us:Mr. ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave, #3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.com Embedded FPGA Market by Top Manufacturers Intel Corporation, Qualcomm Technologies Incorporation, Broadcom Limited, Quick Logic Corporation, NXP Semiconductors N.V. https://www.bigmarketresearch.com/request-sample/2599099?utm_source=Anil&utm_medium=OPR https://www.bigmarketresearch.com/request-for-discount/2599099?utm_source=Anil&utm_medium=OPR https://www.bigmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/2599099?utm_source=Anil&utm_medium=OPR Embedded FPGA is an IP block that allows a complete FPGA to be incorporated into any integrated circuit. The solutions implemented in embedded FPGA are faster and less power consuming, which makes them simpler and cheaper than FPGA. Embedded FPGA uses a considerable amount of silicon area and maximum metal layers in a process.Factors, such as low power requirement and reduced system cost drive the demand for embedded FPGA. Moreover, the adoption of eFPGA in high-end applications is expected to be opportunistic for the market. However, designing complexities could hamper the market growth.Get Sample Copy of this Report @The global embedded FPGA market is segmented based on technology, application and region. On the basis of technology, the market is divided into EEPROM, antifuse, SRAM, flash, and others. By application, the market is segmented into consumer electronics, automotive, industrial, data processing, military & aerospace, telecom, and others. Based on region, the market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA.The key players operating in the embedded FPGA market include Intel Corporation, Qualcomm Technologies Incorporation, Broadcom Limited, Quick Logic Corporation, NXP Semiconductors N.V., Renesas Electronics Corporation, Analog Devices Inc., Xilinx Inc., Microchip Technology, and Cypress Semiconductor.KEY BENEFITS In-depth analysis and dynamics of the global eFPGA market are provided in the report to understand the market scenario. Quantitative analysis of the current trends and future estimations from 2018 to 2024 is provided to assist strategists and stakeholders to capitalize on the prevailing market opportunities. Porters Five Forces analysis examines the competitive structure and provides a clear understanding of the factors that influence market entry and expansion. A detailed analysis of the geographical segments assists in identifying the profitable segments for market players. Comprehensive analyses of the trends, subsegments, and key revenue pockets of the market is included in the study.KEY MARKET SEGMENTSBy Technology EEPROM Antifuse SRAM Flash OthersGet a discount on this research report @Table of Content:CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION1.1. REPORT DESCRIPTION1.2. KEY BENEFITS FOR STAKEHOLDERS1.3. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY1.3.1. Secondary research1.3.2. Primary research1.3.3. Analyst tools & modelsCHAPTER 2: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY2.1. CXO PERSPECTIVECHAPTER 3: MARKET OVERVIEW3.1. MARKET DEFINITION AND SCOPE3.2. KEY FINDINGS3.2.1. Top impacting factors3.2.2. Top investment pockets3.2.3. Top Winning Strategies3.3. PORTER'S FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS3.4. MARKET SHARE ANALYSIS, 20173.5. MARKET DYNAMICS3.5.1. Drivers3.5.1.1. Low power requirement3.5.1.2. Reduced system cost3.5.2. Restraint3.5.2.1. Designing complexities3.5.3. Opportunities3.5.3.1. Adoption in high-end applicationsInquiry before Buy @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 to 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 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 Beverage Refrigeration Market By Top Key Players Whirlpool Corporation, Electrolux, Dover Corporation, GE, Haier. Beverage Refrigeration Market https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/2111 https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/2111 https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/beverage-refrigeration-market https://www.gminsights.com/ https://www.gminsights.com/ North America Beverage Refrigeration Market is anticipated to surpass USD 1 billion by 2024. This can be credited to escalating consumption of refreshment drinks and technological improvements in refrigeration systems. In addition, government encouraging utilization of energy-efficient and eco-friendly technologies in refrigerators.Beverage Refrigeration Market to reach USD 4.5 billion by 2024. Escalating demand for refrigerators to store and serve drinks for social gathering and private events, is a key factor driving beverage refrigeration market growth. Ongoing technological advances to reduce the overall cooling time and consumer demand for distinctive features such as bottom freezer drawer and powerful filtered water will boost beverage refrigeration market.Request for a sample copy of this report @Manufacturers are anticipated to invest in new product development to comply with new energy standards implemented by the regulatory bodies. Further, increasing penetration of refrigerators that employ specific features such as modifiable shelves to accommodate bottles and cans will boost product sales.Increasing consumer preference for packaged drinks which are convenient to consume at home will support the product demand. According to recent statistics, the global consumption of packaged drinks was estimated more than 1.05 trillion liters in 2016 and Chinese consumption amounted to about 178.6 billion liters.Beverage Refrigeration Market, By Producto Under counter beverage refrigerator Gliding door Swing Dooro Countertop beverage refrigerator Gliding door Swing dooro Storage beverage refrigeratoro Milk coolersMake an Inquiry for purchasing this Report @Under counter beverage refrigerator was valued at over USD 1 billion in 2016. Product offering such as stainless-steel body or custom panel-ready fronts are stimulating the demand. In addition, better shelving and temperature control will support segment penetration over the forecast period.Rising demand to preserve milk in dairy shops will propel coolers demand over the projected timeframe. Diary companies are upgrading their existing capacities, and setting up cold storages along with the processing plant. This will generate the overall revenue over the forecast period.Asia Pacific market holds over 20% of overall industry share in 2016. According to industry estimates, the region is anticipated to account for more than two-thirds of the global beverages consumption by 2020. The region accounts for 60% of the world population and increasing consumption will provide lucrative opportunities for manufacturers.Browse Report Summery @Global Beverage Refrigeration Market is fragmented in nature. Key industry players are Electrolux, Daikin Industries, Avanti, Dover Corporation, KingsBottle, Whirlpool Corporation, Edgestar, Haier, Ford and General Electrics. Other Industry participants are Koolatron, Coca-Cola, Danfoss, Gamko, Liebherr, Marvel, Kegco, Danby, Johnson Controls, U-line, HABCO, Allavino, Kenmore, Marvel, United Technologies Corporation and Illinois Tool Works.Contact Us:Arun HegdeCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone:1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.comWeb:Contact Us:Arun HegdeCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone:1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.comWeb: Global Block chain in Agriculture and Food Supply Chain Market Analysis 2025 Top Companies are IBM Corporation, Microsoft, SAP SE, Ambrosus, arc-net, OriginTrail, Ripe Technology INC Global Block chain in Agriculture and Food Supply Chain Market https://databridgemarketresearch.com/request-a-sample/?dbmr=global-block-chain-in-agriculture-and-food-supply-chain-market https://databridgemarketresearch.com/inquire-before-buying/?dbmr=global-block-chain-in-agriculture-and-food-supply-chain-market The Global Block chain in Agriculture and Food Supply Chain market report provides with CAGR value fluctuation during the forecast period of 2018-2025 for the market. It includes a comprehensive evaluation of the Markets growth prospects and Restrictions. This study also analyzes the market status, market share, growth rate, future trends, market drivers, opportunities and challenges, risks and entry barriers, sales channels, distributors and Porter's Five Forces Analysis. The Market Report also provides an analytical assessment of the prime challenges faced by Block chain in Agriculture and Food Supply Chain market currently and in the coming years, which helps Market participants in understanding the problems they may face while operating in this Market over a longer period of time.Global Block chain in Agriculture and Food Supply Chain Market, By Provider (Application and solution provider, Middleware provider, Infrastructure and protocol provider), Application (Product traceability, Payment and settlement, Smart contracts, Governance and risk management), Organization size (Large enterprises, Small and medium-sized (SMEs) enterprises), Geography (North America, South America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa)- Industry Trends and Forecast to 2026Large-scale implantation and awareness about the benefits of block chain is expected to drive the market growth and hence, the initial estimated market value is expected to rise from USD 58.4 million in 2018 to an estimated value of USD 1375.3 million by 2026, registering a CAGR of 48.4% in the forecast period of 2019-2026.Download FREE PDF Sample Copy of Report@Market Definition:Block chain is a database or a directory of records called as blocks, which are connected through cryptography. Each record is interlinked with the previous one, and though technically it cannot be modified as it only records the transaction taking place between two parties. Its application in agriculture enables the users to transmit transparency in their transaction and supply chain informing the consumer of the original transaction as well.Competitive Analysis:The global block chain in agriculture and food supply chain market is highly fragmented and the major players have used variousstrategies such as new product launches, expansions, agreements, joint ventures, partnerships, acquisitions, and others to increase their footprints in this market. The report includes market shares of block chain in agriculture and food supply chain market for global, Europe, North America, Asia Pacific and South America.Market Drivers: Growing environmental concerns about the wastage of resources and food, the implementation of block chain in agricultureis expected to rise due to its various benefits Transparency in cases of food supply chain is also expected to drive the market growthMarket Restraints: Implementation of digital connectivity in the developing regions is one of the major market restraint Vulnerability in relation to hackers and privacy threats is also one of the market restraintTo Avail 10% Discount On This Report Mail Us on :- sopan.gedam@databridgemarketresearch.comSegmentation: By Providero Application and solution providero Middleware providero Infrastructure and protocol provider By Applicationo Product traceabilityo Payment and settlemento Smart contractso Governance and risk management By Organization sizeo Large enterpriseso Small and medium-sized (SMEs) enterprisesInquire about this report from our experts @About Data Bridge Market Research:Data Bridge Market Research set forth itself as an unconventional and neoteric Market research and consulting firm with unparalleled level of resilience and integrated approaches. We are determined to unearth the best market opportunities and foster efficient information for your business to thrive in the market. Data Bridge endeavors to provide appropriate solutions to the complex business challenges and initiates an effortless decision-making process.Contact:Data Bridge Market ResearchTel: +1-888-387-2818Email: sopan.gedam@databridgemarketresearch.com World Cognitive Computing Market By Top Key Players IBM Corporation, Google Incorporation, Microsoft Corporation, Nuance Communications Inc https://www.bigmarketresearch.com/request-sample/305433?utm_source=SJ&utm_medium=OPN https://www.bigmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/305433?utm_source=SJ&utm_medium=OPN https://www.bigmarketresearch.com/request-for-discount/305433?utm_source=SJ&utm_medium=OPN Cognitive computing processes extraordinary volumes of complex data and dramatically enhances the productivity levels in enterprises. Cognitive computing is considered as a next-generation system that interacts in human language and helps human experts to make better decisions by understanding the complexity of big data. Cognitive computing can process human language, unstructured data and can even self-learn by experience and perform tasks similar to the ones done by humans. In the current scenario, big data is increasing due to digitalization and most of the data is received in unstructured form such as images, videos, natural language and symbols.Get Sample Report @Cognitive computing, with the help of different technologies such as natural language processing, machine learning and automated reasoning, translates unstructured data to sense, and infers and predicts the best solution. Cognitive computing is majorly used in BFSI, healthcare, security, and retail applications. Increasing volume of unstructured data and advancements in technology largely drive the cognitive computing market. Cloud based technological advancements, development of innovative hardware and software systems and cognitive experience interfaces would further create opportunities for the cognitive computing market.The Cognitive computing market for cognitive computing is segmented on the basis of technology, applications, end user, deployment type and geography. Natural language processing technology accounted for the maximum revenue share in 2014 and this segment would continue to dominate during the forecast period (2015 - 2020). Natural language processing and machine learning have generated nearly 44% and 30% of the revenue respectively, in 2014. Retail and security would be the fastest growing application segments registering CAGR of 35.8% and 36.5% respectively, during the forecast period.The key players in the market are acquiring specialized technology companies to gain technical expertise in order to develop innovative solutions. In March 2015, IBM acquired AlchemyAPI, one of the leading providers of scalable API services and deep learning technology, which would aid the development of IBMs next generation cognitive computing applications. In Jan 2014, Google acquired the cognitive computing start-up DeepMind with the aim to integrate DeepMinds NLP technology into its core search product for better understanding the queries written in a natural language.Key players of the cognitive computing market are IBM Corporation, Google Incorporation, Microsoft Corporation, Nuance Communications Inc., 3M, Hewlett Packard (HP), Statistical Analysis System (SAS), SAP, Tibco Software and Oracle Corporation.Get Purchase Inquiry @KEY BENEFITSThe report provides an in depth analysis of the market and offers current and future trends to identify lucrative investment pockets in the marketThe report identifies the key drivers, opportunities and restraints along with their impact analysisPorters five forces analysis provides a clear idea regarding the potency of the buyers and suppliers participating in this market. This would further lend competitive advantage to the stakeholders in making profitable business decisionsCurrent and future trends are outlined to determine the overall attractiveness and figure out profitable trends in order to gain a stronger foothold in the marketA detailed qualitative and quantitative analysis of the market through 2014 - 2020 is provided to highlight the market potentialMARKET SEGMENTATIONThe market is segmented on the basis of technology, application, end user, deployment type and geography.Global Market - By Technology TypeNatural Language ProcessingMachine LearningAutomated ReasoningOthers (Information Retrieval)Global Market - By ApplicationsHealthcareBFSIRetailGovernment (Defense)IT & TelecomSecurityOthers (Travel & Tourism, Media and Entertainment, Energy & Power, Research & Education)Global Market - By End UserLarge EnterprisesSmall and medium businesses (SMBs)Global Market - By Deployment TypeOn-Premise SoftwareCloud-based ServicesGlobal Market - By GeographyNorth AmericaEuropeAsia-PacificLAMEAGet Purchase Discount @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 Dog Flea and Tick Products Market 2019 Forecast to 2025 Bayer, Merck, Hartz, Virbac, Ceva Sante Animale Dog Flea and Tick Products https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/requested_sample/77328 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/enquiry_before_buying/77328 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/reports/dog-flea-and-tick-products-market-2019 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/request_for_discount/77328 www.upmarketresearch.com A new business intelligence report released by Up Market Research with title Global Dog Flea and Tick Products Market Research Report 2019 that targets and provides comprehensive market analysis with future prospects to 2025. The study have garnered extensive research methodologies and data sources (i.e. Secondary & Primary Sources) in order to generate collective and useful information that delivers latest market undercurrents and industry trends.Request Sample Copy Of this Report @Dog Flea and Tick Products 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 Dog Flea and Tick Products Market global status and trend, market size, share, growth, trends analysis, segment and forecasts from 2019 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.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 Dog Flea and Tick Products Market analysis & forecast 2019- 2025 is segmented into Product Segment, Application Segment & Major players.For More Information on This Report, Please Visit @Dog Flea and Tick Products Market Segmentation covers:Region- wise Analysis: North America, Europe, China, Japan, India, Southeast Asia, Other regions (Central & South America, Middle East & Africa)Major Players Reported Are:BayerMerckHartzVirbacCeva Sante AnimaleSergeant's Pet Care ProductsEcto DevelopmentWellmark InternationalProduct Segment Analysis:Pills and ChewablesTopical TreatmentsOtherApplication Segment Analysis:Adult DogPuppyRead More details Dog Flea and Tick Products Market Analysis and Forecast 2019- 2025 report helps the clients to take business decisions and to understand strategies of major players in the industry. 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Global Product Information Management Industry analysis and profiling for 2019-2024 | SAP AG, IBM, Oracle, Informatica, Riversand, Stibo etc Global Product Information Management Industry analysis and profiling for 2019-2024 | SAP AG, IBM, Oracle, Informatica, Riversand https://www.amplemarketreports.com/sample-request/global-product-information-management-market-397729.html https://www.amplemarketreports.com/report/global-product-information-management-market-397729.html https://www.amplemarketreports.com/enquiry-before-buy/global-product-information-management-market-397729.html www.amplemarketreports.com Global Product Information Management market report is first of its kind research report that includes historical and forecast market data, demand, application details, price trends, and company shares of the leading Product Information Management by geography, and leading players various strategies to sustain in the global market.This report covers five top regions of the globe and countries within, which shows the status of regional development, consisting of market value, volume, size, and price data. Apart from this, the report also covers detail information about various clients which is the most significant element for the manufacturers.Get Sample Copy of this Report @The report forecast Global Product Information Management market to grow to reach xxx Million USD in 2019 with a CAGR of xx% during the period 2020-2024.At company level, Global Product Information Management report focuses on the production capacity, ex-factory price, revenue and market share for each manufacturer/Key Companies covered in this report. SAP AG IBM Corporation Oracle Corporation Informatica Riversand Technologies Stibo Systems ADAM Software Agility Multichannel Inriver PimcoreAccess Full Comprehensive Industry Insights @The classification of Product Information Management includes Consulting & System Integration, Training, Support & Maintenance & Others.By Application, the Product Information Management market can be split into Small & Medium Enterprises Large EnterprisesThis report focuses on Product Information Management volume and value at global level, regional level and company level. From a global perspective, this report represents overall Product Information Management market size by analyzing historical data and future prospect. Regionally, this report focuses on several key regions:North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific etcInquire more or share questions if any before the purchase on this report @Please let us know If you have any special requirements as we provide reports on custom requirements then you will get Complete Report in your Inbox within 24 hoursAbout Ample Market ResearchAmple Market Research provides comprehensive market research services and solutions across various industry verticals and helps businesses perform exceptionally well. Attention to detail, consistency, and quality are elements we focus on. However, our mainstay remains to be knowledge, expertise, and resources to make us industry players.Our end goal is to provide quality market research and consulting services to customers and add maximum value to businesses worldwide. We desire to delivery reports that have the perfect concoction of useful data.Our mission is to capture every aspect of the market and offer businesses a document that makes solid grounds for crucial decision making.Contact UsAmple Market Research & Consulting Private LimitedWilliam JamesMedia & Marketing ManagerAddress: Jamuna Tower, 501, MIDC Road, Miragaon, Mira Road East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 401107Call: +1 (530) 868 6979Email: sales@amplemarketreports.comWebsite: Lingerie Market Growth by Top Key Players - LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE, L Brands, Inc., Hanesbrands Inc., Jockey International Inc., Nike Inc., Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation, Groupe Chantelle Lingerie www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-pdf/1460 https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-customization/1460 Lingerie is the inner clothing worn by women comprising one of the most basic needs and providing comfort as well as fashion. The common materials used to manufacture lingerie include cotton, silk, lace, polyester, and nylon among others. Women are increasingly being inclined toward wearing lingerie with precise look and measurements. Therefore, companies are focusing on launching comfortable and aesthetic products. For instance, in 2017, Nike Inc., launched a hyper-adaptive bra to support an athletes needs called the Nike Motion Adapt bra, this bra provides enhanced support and comfort.Download PDF Brochure :The growth of this market is attributed to the growing e-commerce sector, which includes shopping websites. This in turn, is influencing major players to focus on enhancing their business via online stores and sites. For instance, in 2017, Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation, entered into an agreement to acquire True&Co., an online lingerie retailer. The online retailer uses a fit quiz to recommend bras and other intimates that will best fit the responding consumer.Global Lingerie Market Outlook:North America exhibited prominent growth in the global lingerie market in 2016. The growth is attributed to the presence of major players in the region and increasing number of initiatives to enhance sales. For instance, in 2018, Hanesbrands Inc., an apparel retailer company, acquired Bras N Things, Australia-based lingerie brand for around US$ 400 million. Bras N Things Pty. Ltd. has over 172 retail stores across New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa. Moreover, in 2018, Victorias Secret launched a new line of lingerie in Miami, to expand its brands product portfolio. Similarly, in 2017, the brand began the production of a new line of underwear designed for women.Europe accounted for a largest share in the global lingerie market in 2016, owing to the increasing number of initiatives by major players to meet the growing demand for lingerie by consumers. For instance, in 2018, European Lingerie Group acquired Avangard, a Russian distributor of medical textiles and lingerie materials. Through the acquisition, the company aims to enhance the sales of fabrics to their lingerie customers in Russia.Asia Pacific is expected to hold the fastest-growing market for lingerie over the forecast period. This is owing to the increasing purchasing power and rising influence of the western culture are the major factors driving growth of the lingerie market in this region. Major players are focusing on expanding their business in this region to obtain higher revenue and strengthen their market presence. For instance, La Senza Corporation, a Canada-based fashion retailer and subsidiary of L Brands Inc., launched its e-store in 2011, to increase their presence mainly in the Australia. Moreover, in 2017, MAS Holdings which, sells products under Amante label, planned to acquire lingerie brands in India and also planned to hold 100 stores in following 3 to 5 years.Key Players:Major players operating in the global lingerie market include LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE, L Brands, Inc., Hanesbrands Inc., Jockey International Inc., Nike Inc., Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation, Groupe Chantelle, MAS Holdings Limited, GGI Holdings Ltd., and Marks and Spencer Plc.Request For Customization of Research Report :About Coherent Market Insights:Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity.Contact Us:Mr. ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave,#3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.com Oxalic Acid Market Insights on Trends, Drivers and Opportunities by 2022 & key players - Shanxi Province Yuanping Chemicals Co., Ltd., Ube industries, ltd., Oxaquim S.A., Tongliao Jinmei Chemicals Co., Ltd and Indian Oxalate Ltd. https://www.researchcosmos.com/reports/oxalic-acid-market-research-report-global-industry-analysis-and-forecast-2017-to-2022/1727181519 https://www.researchcosmos.com/request/oxalic-acid-market-research-report-global-industry-analysis-and-forecast-2017-to-2022/1727181519 https://www.researchcosmos.com/inquire/oxalic-acid-market-research-report-global-industry-analysis-and-forecast-2017-to-2022/1727181519 www.researchcosmos.com https://acutemarketinsights.com https://marketreportsweb.com/ Oxalic Acid Market Size and Growth Rate:Oxalic Acid Market was valued at USD 532 Million in 2017 and projected to reach USD xx Million by 2022 growing at a CAGR of 3.8% during the forecast period 2018 to 2022.Oxalic Acid Market Overview:Oxalic acid market is expected to have continuous growth rate during the forecast period. Oxalic acid is an organic compound which has high acidic strength than other chemical compounds comparatively. It is a colorless crystalline solid and does not affect the physical properties when it acts as a solvent. Over 25% of oxalic acid which is produced is used as a mordant in dying process. The wide application of this organic compound lies in the cleaning of rust metals in metal industry. Oxalic acid is also applicable in purifying the drugs in pharmaceutical companies. The utilization of oxalic acid is widely spreading into leather tanning process and also in the rare earth industry.Browse details of 106 number of pages research report developed on Oxalic Acid Market @Oxalic Acid Market Growth Drivers and Restraints:The growing prevalence in the pharmaceutical companies to meet the requirements with the increase in the incidences of chronic diseases is a key driving factor for the growth of the market. Another attribute propelling the demand of the market is from the increasing demand from the waste water treatment process in various industries. However, the oxalic acid is very powerful and can form into dangerous poison which is a challenging factor for the manufacturers to avoid complexity while preparing. Lack of sufficient knowledge regarding the safety precautions to be taken while using this compound is silently hampering the growth of the market.Oxalic acid is certainly fueling its usage in the pharmaceutical companies and is a main compound used for purification and dilution of the drugs in manufacturing that enhances the quality is surging the growth opportunities for the market. Moreover, the government support in investments and also introduction of various economic strategies, are lucratively supporting the growth of the market.Geographic Insights of Oxalic Acid Market:Asia pacific witnessed in leading shares of the market owing to increased scale of the pharmaceutical industries and growing demand from the textile industry. Especially, China and India are major counties contributing to the highest shares of the market. North America is anticipated to lead the market with increase in the awareness of utilizing this oxalic acid in various fields. Europe and Middle East & Africa are esteemed to have tremendous growth rate in the near future.Ask Free Sample of the report @Key Market Players of Oxalic Acid Market:Shanxi Province Yuanping Chemicals Co., Ltd., Ube industries, ltd., Oxaquim S.A., Tongliao Jinmei Chemicals Co., Ltd and Indian Oxalate Ltd are prominent players in the oxalic acid market.Oxalic Acid Market Key Segmentation:By Product Types Industrial RefinedBy Processes Oxidation of Carbohydrates CO Coupling Reaction Oxidation of Propylene Sodium Formate ProcessBy Applications Rare Earth Pharmaceuticals Fine Chemicals Textile OtherBy Region: North America South America Europe Asia Pacific Middle East and AfricaFor any queries, inquire more @About Us:Research Cosmos is a provider of standard and customized market research, business intelligence and consulting services across more than 100 domains in different industries of the world. We host the trending market reports of the worlds top-notch publishing companies, offering services to a wide range of customers from students to fortune 500 companies and discloses the hidden opportunities in every leading industry of the world.Contact:Kevin StewartGlobal Sales ManagerResearch CosmosBlog:Blog: Carbon Monoxide Gas Sensors Market 2019 Top Companies: Aeroqual, Robert Bosch, Siemens Ag, Yokogawa Electric Corporation, Abb, Gfg Europe, Alphasense, Dynament, Ngk Insulators and Trolex https://marketprognosis.com/sample-request/17365 https://marketprognosis.com/discount-request/17365 https://marketprognosis.com/enquiry/17365 The carbon monoxide gas sensors market is expected to register a CAGR of 6.54% over the forecast period (2018-2023). The scope of the report includes insights on the solutions offered by major players including providers of hardware, professional services, and integration solutions. The regions included in the study are North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. The study also emphasizes various end-user-based applications, such as industrial, medical, environmental, etc.Detailed Sample Copy of Updated Analysis @Note: If this link doesnt work in Internet Explorer, kindly try copy pasting it in other browsers.Medical Segment has New Opportunities for Carbon Monoxide SensorsIt is estimated that by 2050, people aged over 60 years will outnumber those below that age group. This is a key indicator of the potential demand for healthcare services in the coming years. Scientists and healthcare professionals have concluded that prevention and early detection monitoring is the only plausible and effective solution for dealing with the growing healthcare demand. Employment of carbon monoxide gas sensors in constant monitoring is considered a major leap in the early detection monitoring systems. Point of care monitoring, non-invasiveness, and direct access to physiological & non-physiological parameters are some of the major drivers for the penetration of carbon monoxide gas sensors into the medical field. The ability to differentiate a healthy person from a sick person by the use of different marker gases has aided the employability of the carbon monoxide gas sensors in body monitoring. Sensor manufacturers are now focusing on the single marker gas approach for identifying a variety of ailments. Inflammation of the bronchial by detecting NO, metabolism dysfunction (fat burning) and Ketosis (Keto acidic coma) by Acetone, Renal diseases by NH3, and oxidative stress marking (smoking indicator) by CO are some of the most employed single marker gas approaches in medical diagnosis.Key Developments in the MarketJanuary 2017 - 32 states in the United States have enacted statutes regarding carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, and another 11 have promulgated regulations on CO detectors. Alaska requires that detectors approved by the state fire marshal be installed in all dwellings. Connecticut requires them in all new construction, as do New Hampshire, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Washington, and West Virginia. Florida also requires them in new construction and in every room with a boiler.The major players include AEROQUAL LTD, ROBERT BOSCH, LLC, SIEMENS AG, YOKOGAWA ELECTRIC CORPORATION, ABB LTD, GFG EUROPE LTD, ALPHASENSE, DYNAMENT LTD, NGK INSULATORS LTD, and TROLEX LTD, amongst others.Request Discount on this report @Note: If this link doesnt work in Internet Explorer, kindly try copy pasting it in other browsers.US in North America has Stringent Laws Making Installation of CO Sensors CompulsoryThe health hazards posed by high levels of carbon monoxide in homes and buildings have led state legislatures to adopt laws mandating the use of carbon monoxide detectors.The use varies, from every enclosed room being required to have detectors, to every room that has a smoke alarm to have a detector, to only day-care centers and group homes needing detectors. 27 states and the District of Columbia require carbon monoxide detectors in private dwellings via the state statute. Another 11 states require carbon monoxide detectors in private dwellings through the adoption of the International Residential Code or via an amendment to their states building code.Enquiry Before Buying@Note: If this link doesnt work in Internet Explorer, kindly try copy pasting it in other browsers.About Market PrognosisWe at Market Prognosis believe in giving a crystal clear view of market dynamics for achieving success in todays complex and competitive marketplace through our quantitative & qualitative research methods.We help our clients identify the best market insights and analysis required for their business thus enabling them to take strategic and intelligent decision.We believe in delivering actionable insights for your business growth and success.Contact us:ProgMarkPvt Ltd,Thane - 421501India.Contact No: +1 973 241 5193Email: sales@marketprognosis.com 2019 Smart Ticketing Systems Market | By Key Players: HID, Gemalto NV, NXP Semiconductors, CPI Card Group Inc, Cubic Corp, Xerox Corp Smart Ticketing Systems https://www.reporthive.com/enquiry.php?id=1714452&req_type=smpl&utm_source=SN https://www.reporthive.com/enquiry.php?id=1714452&req_type=purch https://www.reporthive.com Smart Ticketing Systems Market research report covers the data which is helpful for key players, product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force, technological advancement, distributors, traders, dealers, research findings. These data representations provide predictive data regarding the future estimations for convincing market growth.Click here to get sample report copy @Company Coverage (Sales Revenue, Price, Gross Margin, Main Products etc.): HID Gemalto NV NXP Semiconductors CPI Card Group Inc Cubic Corp Xerox CorpThis 93 pages of report focuses on the Smart Ticketing Systems Market in global market, especially in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East and Africa.Product Type Coverage (Market Size & Forecast, Major Company of Product Type etc.): Smart Card System Open Payment System Near-Field Communication SystemApplication Coverage (Market Size & Forecast, Different Demand Market by Region, Main Consumer Profile etc.): Railways and Metros Sports and Entertainments Airlines Buses OthersTable of Content1 Industry Overview2 Industry Environment3 Smart Ticketing Systems Market by Type4 Major Companies List4.1 HID (Company Profile, Sales Data etc.)4.2 Gemalto NV (Company Profile, Sales Data etc.)4.3 NXP Semiconductors (Company Profile, Sales Data etc.)4.4 CPI Card Group Inc (Company Profile, Sales Data etc.)4.5 Cubic Corp (Company Profile, Sales Data etc.)4.6 Xerox Corp (Company Profile, Sales Data etc.)5 Market CompetitionContinuedClick here to Purchase the full report @About UsReport Hive Research delivers strategic market research reports, statistical survey, and Industry analysis & forecast data on products & services, markets and companies. Our clientele ranges mix of global Business Leaders, Government Organizations, SMEs, Individual & Start-ups, Management Consulting Firms, and Universities etc. Our library of 600,000+ market reports covers industries like Chemical, Healthcare, IT, Telecom, Semiconductor, etc. in the USA, Europe Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific. We help in business decision-making on aspects such as market entry strategies, market sizing, market share analysis, sales & revenue, technology trends, competitive analysis, product portfolio & application analysis etc.500, North Michigan Avenue,Suite 6014, Chicago, United States, IL - 60611Contact UsMike RossMarketing Managersales@reporthive.comPhone Number: +1-312 604 7084 The founder of a small nonprofit that helps foster children and the families who care for them has received a check for $10,500 from a group of East Multnomah County women moved by her story. Lyndsee Wunn of Troutdale started Boxes of Love, which was featured in an Oregonian/OregonLive story last week. We have 105 women in our group, said Bess Willis, a member of 100+ Women Who Care East County. Each of us wrote a check for $100. The group meets four times a year to select a program worth supporting. Boxes of Love, Willis said, brought the women to tears. We were choked up that night we voted, Willis said. Im choked up now talking about it. Nothing is more precious to a woman than her children. Heres someone who nurtures and supports kids. She deserves our help. Wunn, a pediatric nurse at Randall Childrens Hospital at Legacy Emanuel in Portland, was haunted by the faces of the foster children she saw there. She ultimately began Boxes of Love to collect new clothing and supplies for foster families. Through word-of-mouth, her project grew organized. More people donated goods as well as money that Wunn used to buy the clothes, toys and books. Wunn has six volunteers who help pack boxes and deliver them to hospitals and foster families throughout the metro area. Her program has partnerships with Randall, Doernbecher Childrens Hospital and neonatal units at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center, Providence Portland Medical Center and Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center in Vancouver. Since she began four years ago, Wunn has given away 470 boxes, each with a value of about $500. Wunn, who received the $10,500 check this week, was stunned. To raise this money would take a year or more for us," she said. "This money will make an immediate difference. Wunn said she has received comments and support from people around the United States who read the story. They all want to know how they can help, she said. I have 30 new volunteers. People have sent money. Ive received more than 40 boxes from Amazon Prime from people from California to New York City. Wunn, who continues to work as a nurse, said the reaction showed her that people want to help those in need. Its been crazy, she said. In a good way. --Tom Hallman Jr. thallman@oregonian.com; 503 221-8224 @thallmanjr A federal appeals panel has upheld Sherwood School Districts one-year expulsion of a student who wrote a "hit list'' at home naming 22 students and one teacher. Because of the nature of the list, the students access to guns and the close proximity of his home to the high school, the school districts decision to discipline him for his off-campus speech didnt violate his constitutional right to free speech, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Thursday. Courts considering whether a school district may constitutionally regulate off-campus speech must determine, based on the totality of the circumstances, whether the speech bears a sufficient nexus to the school, the appellate court noted. The panel stated theres always a sufficient link between the speech and the school when the school district reasonably concludes that it faces a credible, identifiable threat of school violence. The ruling cited the U.S. Supreme Court, which has held that public school students dont forfeit their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate. The student was a sophomore in May 2014 when he created a hit list in his personal journal, naming 22 Sherwood High students and one former employee, and writing I am God and All These People Must Die, according to court records. When his mother discovered it in September 2014 shortly after the start of her 16-year-old sons junior year, she alerted a therapist, who informed the police. The police reported it to the school district and the district expelled the student for a year. The student and his parents sued the district, and a trial judge dismissed the case. In the students appeal, attorney Adam S. Heder argued the student never intended to share the list with anyone, so it didnt rise to a "true threat. We have recognized repeatedly that the specter of school violence places a weighty social responsibility on school districts to ensure that warning signs do not turn to tragedy, the appellate court wrote. This responsibility does not mean schools may expel students just because they are loners, wear black and play video games. It does mean, however, that a students intent, although relevant, does not necessarily define the threat of violence. A students intent should be considered by a school district in weighing the credibility of a threat, but the students plan to keep a threat private doesnt negate concerns, the court found. It would be absurd to suggest that secret threats or planning cannot give rise to reasonable concerns of school violence, the court wrote in its opinion. The number of reported tragic school shootings over the past two decades emphasizes the need for school districts to have the authority to take disciplinary action when faced with a credible threat of school violence. The appeals panel didnt consider whether the one-year expulsion was too long because the student and his parents didnt challenge the length of the expulsion. But the court did point out that theres a risk that such discipline might sometimes extend beyond a real concern of a threat and only become punitive, which would not be constitutional. -- Maxine Bernstein Email at mbernstein@oregonian.com Follow on Twitter @maxoregonian Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. A senior Oregon State Police trooper is suing the head of the agencys Office of Professional Standards and two supervisors, contending they failed to hold officers accountable for alleged misconduct, including one sergeant investigated for extensively using a racial slur on the job. Thomas Harrisons federal and state whistleblower lawsuits paint a picture of a caustic culture in the state police Central Point patrol office in southern Oregon. Supervisors there wouldnt address inappropriate and illegal behavior to avoid exposure and accountability or deliberately withheld officers misconduct from the local district attorneys office, his suits contend. Harrison alleges that Capt. Jeff Hershman, who runs the Professional Standards office, and Lt. Tyler Lee and Sgt. Jeff Proulx, both supervisors of troopers in Jackson County, have authorized or allowed state police to harass, embarrass, annoy and intimidate individuals who dare to challenge the Thin Blue Line and expose corruption and law violations in the agency. The suits come on the heels of a similar lawsuit filed last month by another senior state trooper, who alleges his supervisor at the Klamath Falls Area Command Office retaliated against him for taking medical leave for a job injury and that a sergeant there consistently used offensive terms, name calling, disparaging comments, bully tactics and hypocrisy to define his leadership style. Harrison says hes been subjected to retaliation for his efforts to expose or question inappropriate conduct among troopers or supervisors. Among his accusations: Unfair promotions based on nepotism, re-promotions after demotions for ethical lapses, a sergeants alleged unprovoked assault of a young man, and a canine troopers alleged intimidation of a young motorist ordered to pull his pants down on the side of a freeway to prove he wasnt hiding drugs in his groin, his suits say. He also noted a satirical award for a senior trooper posted in the Central Point office that celebrated his work as a well-rounded ass kicking commando for racking up 16 use-of-force incidents against suspects terrifying females children and elderly people. Harrisons state suit also names the agency as a defendant. Oregon State Police Senior Trooper Thomas Harrison complained about this 'satirical award' ridiculing another trooper's use of force, which was posted in the state police Central Point patrol office. SUPERVISOR DEMOTED FOR RACIAL SLUR Among the alleged misconduct were complaints that Harrisons immediate boss, now-retired Sgt. Jeffrey A. Allison, repeatedly used the n-word, as a supervisor in the Central Command office. In October 2016, Allison was under an internal investigation for the allegations but was allowed to serve as an acting lieutenant in charge of the Central Point patrol office, Harrison contends in his suits. Harrison complained and the next day, Dec. 10, 2016, Allison was placed on paid leave while the investigation continued, his suits say. Allison eventually was demoted to senior trooper and transferred to the Grants Pass patrol office, before retiring June 30. Harrison complained that state police didnt terminate Allison. Twenty-five troopers heard Allison use the n-bomb and OSP holds a retirement party for the guy and doesnt fire him, Harrison said in an interview with The Oregonian/OregonLive. You cant cover up things like this. If you hide that, you put everybodys credibility on the line. The state police investigation found Allison had exhibited unprofessional, offensive speech but didnt exhibit racial biases against others. Investigators said his language violated the state police rules of conduct. A demotion is the agencys most severe discipline before termination. Harrison also contends in the suit that state police didnt disclose the true nature of its investigation into Allison -- either to the Jackson County District Attorneys Office that had subpoenaed Allison to testify in a drug case in March 2017 or to plaintiffs in a wrongful death lawsuit involving one of Allisons officers. The District Attorneys Office should have been notified and considered not calling Allison to testify in future cases, Harrison argues in the suits. Oregon State Police Capt. Tim Fox said he couldnt discuss a personnel matter but defended the agencys investigation of Allison and said the department in 2017 created a diversity team that meets monthly and instituted implicit bias training for all troopers. Theres no thin blue line that exists within the state police, Fox said. We took this one seriously. We interviewed his co-workers. If theres an issue, we want to know about it and well investigate. Allison did not return requests for comment. I JUST WANTED MY AGENCY TO DO THE RIGHT THING Harrison, who has nearly 25 years with state police, said hes taking legal action because his efforts to work through the appropriate channels within the department failed. I just wanted my agency to do the right thing, Harrison said. Because hes highlighted improprieties, Harrison said hes become the subject of numerous nuisance level investigations that none of his coworkers have faced for similar actions. He said his immediate supervisors havent talked to him for at least a year except when hes under investigation. Fox said he couldnt comment on the suits. However, we want to emphasize that the Department of State Police takes all allegations of retaliation seriously, he said. We are committed as an organization and individuals to treating everyone in an equitable manner and with professionalism and respect, and to fostering an organizational culture of diversity and inclusion. Sgt. Mark Banks, president of the Oregon State Police Officers Association that represents both sergeants and troopers, said state police need to do better. We dont do a good job of policing ourselves because we let relationships within the organization affect investigations. We need to find a way to have outside eyes on things, Banks said. The only people who dont see a problem with the clique are the people inside the clique. -- Maxine Bernstein Email at mbernstein@oregonian.com Follow on Twitter @maxoregonian Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. An Oregon hitter didnt wish to discuss Taylor McQuillin before this weekends series and the Arizona ace kept the Ducks silent on Friday. McQuillin struck out eight and allowed just two hits while No. 14 Arizona bashed four home runs off Jordan Dail as Oregon dropped its seventh straight in an 8-0 loss in six innings at Hillenbrand Memorial Stadium in Tuscon, Ariz. on Friday. The Wildcats (19-7, 1-0 Pac-12), who entered Pac-12 play second in the conference in home runs, took a 2-0 lead in the second on a leadoff home run by Dejah Mulipola and sacrifice fly by Hannah Martinez. Dail (7-6), who earlier in the week said minimizing the damage would be key against Arizonas power hitters, allowed eight runs on 13 hits and three walks over 5.2 innings. She surrendered solo shots to Alyssa Palomino and Rylee Pierce (3 for 3) in the third and fourth innings, respectively. Meanwhile, McQuillin retired 16 straight Oregon hitters and allowed just a pair of singles. Palomino added a three-run blast in the sixth and Martinez ended the run-rule win with a two-out RBI single, which dropped Oregon (11-11, 0-1 Pac-12) to .500 for the first time this season. The teams continue the series at 2:05 p.m. Saturday on Pac-12 Network. Kiran Weasel vividly remembers her latest trip to the Arctic Circle and the moment she started to worry about the climate. Like, really worry. The Franklin High School junior was one of hundreds of students from across Portland who rallied Friday in front of City Hall against what they say is inaction against the harmful effects of climate change. The event was part of a worldwide student strike across dozens of countries by millions of kids. In Portland, students walked out of class to attend the 11 a.m. rally and march downtown. As the eastern plaza in front of City Hall filled with students, Weasel recounted a guided trip to the Arctic Circle led by a team from Portland nonprofit Soul River. She and the group stood in a spot where the permafrost had once stretched for more than 200 feet from where we were, Weasel remembers the guide saying. And, in the midst of the guides speech, the group watched as a chunk of ice broke off the arctic mass. It was her second trip to the region. During the first, guides told Weasel about the way animals have adapted to the warming climate. The experiences are why Weasel gets incensed when adults downplay the effects of carbon emissions on the global climate. She gets even more upset when politicians say human activity doesnt play a role. Students across Portland rally at City Hall against climate change Posted by The Oregonian on Friday, March 15, 2019 Theyre wrong, Weasel said. They cant open their eyes to see the truth. They havent seen what Ive seen. She was part of a crowd that easily topped 1,000 and packed the City Hall plaza with kids hauling backpacks and handmade signs. Technical issues with the venues sound system prevented speakers from taking the microphone. So, after a few rounds of chants, the crowd took to the streets and marched. The teens snaked northeast through downtown Portland until the event wrapped up at Salmon Street Springs around noon. Parts of the crowd moved on to Portland Public Schools headquarters, where KGW reported several broke out into chants urging the district to adopt curriculum that addresses climate change. District spokesman Harry Esteve said the message got through. We constantly work to develop curriculum and classroom programs that are relevant and meaningful to students and meet state academic standards, he said in a statement. The next step is to determine how it is integrated into the districts comprehensive core curriculum. The district believes climate change is a critically important subject, and we are proud of our students for raising this issue. The Portland Police Bureau said it could not accurately estimate the number of attendees. In the past, the agency has used capacity limits for the sites of permitted protests to approximate those numbers. The Associated Press reported that 150,000 students rallied across Europe. About 1,000 demonstrators also gathered at the offices of U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., in San Francisco, whose terse exchange with a visiting class over the Green New Deal went viral late last month. The worldwide demonstrations were inspired by Greta Thunberg, a 16-year-old Swedish activist whos been protesting outside of her countrys parliament since last year. Shes been nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize and told a crowd gathered at the Stockholm rally that climate change poses an existential crisis. Rally attendees in Portland said much the same. As students flooded the plaza, a pair of girls climbed a replica of the Liberty Bell that stands outside City Hall. Another teen, visiting from Tampa, Florida, climbed a tree for a better vantage point. Mia Eastman said she was planning on attending the climate march, regardless of which city she was in when it happened. Issues vary city by city, but the impact of climate change is the same everywhere, she said from her perch. Like so many of the Portland students around her, Eastmans first foray into protesting came last year in the wake of the school shooting in Parkland, Florida. Breanna Santamaria, a Wilson High junior, said that event galvanized students here in a way shes never seen before. Santamaria brushed off claims made by critics on social media that she and her peers were just trying to get out of class for the day. Students from across Portland are marching through the city in support of climate policy. Posted by The Oregonian on Friday, March 15, 2019 This isnt an excuse to get out of school. This is an effort to save our lives. To save the planet, she said. Some adults were more supportive of the demonstration. Oregon Gov. Kate Brown shared live video of the Portland rally on Twitter and added a note of encouragement. Climate change impacts every Oregonian. Proud to see our youth using their voices to make the change they want to see, Brown wrote in a statement. "They will live with the consequences of our actions far longer than todays decision-makers. We need to listen to them. Climate change impacts every Oregonian. Proud to see our youth using their voices to make the change they way to see. They will live with the consequences of our actions far longer than today's decision-makers. We need to listen to them. #ClimateStrike https://t.co/jKkYvKQF1Y Governor Kate Brown (@OregonGovBrown) March 15, 2019 U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley, who recently announced hed target his sights on a Senate re-election rather than chase a White House bid, also encouraged the youth protests on Twitter. Students are taking extreme action with todays #ClimateStrike because our world is in extreme crisis, he wrote. Climate chaos is ravaging our environment, health AND our economy. Congress needs to take action NOW to address this emergency. Students are taking extreme action with todays #ClimateStrike because our world is in extreme crisis. Climate chaos is ravaging our environment, health, AND our economy. Congress needs to take action NOW to address this emergency. #GreenNewDeal https://t.co/q8aziV8V5n Senator Jeff Merkley (@SenJeffMerkley) March 15, 2019 I am standing with the student climate strikers until their government stands with them. They deserve to have a future. We have no excuse not to fight for them. #ClimateActionNow #ClimateStrike #ActOnClimate #GreenNewDeal pic.twitter.com/Gr211CVXu7 Earl Blumenauer (@repblumenauer) March 15, 2019 While students in front of City Hall were rallying for action from their politicians, several said they were taking steps to reduce their own carbon footprints. Santamaria rides her bike as much as possible. She also times her showers, taking care to limit hers to five minutes. Jennifer Chavez, a Franklin High junior, said shes recently made a major lifestyle change to reduce her own carbon footprint. And shes been urging her friends to do the same thing. Go vegan, she said. Its one of the biggest things she believes an individual can do to reduce the greenhouse gases entering the atmosphere. A New York Times report puts the amount of carbon dioxide caused by farming the U.S. at 574 million metric tons, according to estimates from the Environmental Protection Agency. Forty-two percent of that comes from animal agriculture. We wont have an Earth to live on if we dont do something about this, if we dont take steps to save it, Chavez said. The last time I saw Natalie Nourigat, seven or eight years back, she was sitting across a small table at Peets Coffee on Southwest Broadway. I wanted the young Portland cartoonist to illustrate a graphic novel about a meth addict. Nourigat was encouraging, but decisive in turning me down cold. She was convinced she was called to other projects and better stories. A rather astute career move, I have to say. Nourigat was a featured guest Friday afternoon at Emerald City Comic Con, a rollicking comic and pop culture show that draws 95,000 people to downtown Seattle. Better yet, she was up-beat inspiration for a roomful of fledgling artists who dream of some day working at Walt Disney Animation. Nourigat has done just that for the last three and a half years. She is a story artist at Disney, bringing storyboards and her knack for storytelling into the formative stages of feature films, including Ralph Breaks the Internet. Storytelling via story boards One of the most talented, kindest and entertaining artists Ive ever met, Matt Roberts, the artistic recruiter at Disney Animation, said in introducing her. Nourigat, 31, grew up in Portland. She was forever drawing and forever drawn to manga and comics, but lost as to how to make a living doing what she loved. My career counselor didnt know what to do with animation, Nourigat says, so I let that dream fall by the wayside for awhile. She went the University of Oregon, majoring in business and Japanese, thinking she might end up abroad teaching English. She earned pizza money doing small web comics. She was never without her sketchbook. Then came the day when Nourigat walked her artwork into Portlands Periscope (now Helioscope) Studio, asking about its internship program. Smart, professional and driven, said Steve Lieber, the co-founder of Helioscope. I dont remember how many applicants we had but no one was as impressive as Natalie. Within the program, she asked great questions, and when you answered them, you could tell the answers were landing, and being weighed and processed. She was also a diligent sketch artist, filling sketchbook after sketchbook with observational drawings. When she finished college, we asked her to come join us. Nourigat worked in close quarters with two dozen artists at Helioscope. That was huge: 25 different case studies of how you could make this work, she says. She wrapped up a graphic novel, Between Gears, that was a finalist for an Oregon Book Award. She gained experience in commercial storyboarding. And after taking a year off, at 25, to work as an au pair in France, she began applying for jobs in animation, her first crush. I applied for 30 jobs in 12 months, and they all turned me down, Nourigat said Friday. Disney turned me down. But they had a training program The beginning of a beautiful friendship. An eventual invitation into the story room in Burbank where 12 cartoonists arrive, storyboards in hand, and pitch their vision of the scene theyve each been assigned. Emerald City is four-day whirlwind, a long weekend over-inflated by color and costume. But Fridays panel with Nourigat was a quiet escape from all that. Few cosplayers were in attendance. Almost everyone who approached the audience microphone asked questions about the journey that brought Nourigat to the stage, and the bread crumbs shed left for them. She was encouraging and decisive in her optimism. She wanted them to know how often shed failed. That she was broke at 28. That she relates to their insecurities: Am I too old? Did I go to the right school? Do I have to move to LA? A lot of us have the same fears before we take that leap. Natalie Nourigat's latest graphic novel. Her advice was direct. Treat job hunting as your second job, Nourigat said. Network with other artists: They are mentors, not competition. Follow your favorites on social media, so you can see what theyre doing to improve themselves. Be bold in proclaiming your dreams, so friends who have found their way to the story room can offer advice and job tips. All it takes is one person to be generous and to see something in you, she said. And that portfolio? That frightfully compact statement about where youve been and where you hope to be? Do what you love, and put that into your portfolio, Nourigat said. Whatever brings you joy is going to make you the happiest in your career. -- Steve Duin stephen.b.duin@gmail.com Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists may bring back characters viewers came to know in Pretty Little Liars, but the new series has its own stories to tell. Adapted from a book series by Sara Shepard (who wrote Pretty Little Liars), The Perfectionists introduces viewers to a new setting, new mysteries, new loves and some seriously bad romances. During its 2010-2017 run, Pretty Little Liars hooked fans who tuned in to try to solve its mysteries, and to follow the ups and downs of its cast of characters. In The Perfectionists, some familiar names turn up, including Sasha Pieterse as Alison DiLaurentis, and Janel Parrish continues as Mona Vanderwaal, both of whom who were part of the Pretty Little Liars cast. Here are more details and inside scoop about what to expect, from our interview with executive producer I. Marlene King at the Television Critics Association 2019 winter press tour, and a sneak peek at the first episode. The characters deal with expectations and worry they dont live up to them: King says the shows title has its own special meaning. So many young people today feel pressure to be perfect, she says, or look perfect on Instagram or other social media platforms. We want them not to be so hard on themselves, King said in our interview. Her hope is that The Perfectionists can show that, if you fail, its not the end of the world. Janel Parrish as Mona Vanderwaal and Sasha Pieterse as Alison DiLaurentis in "Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists." (Photo: Allyson Riggs/Freeform) Freeform Break out the books: The setting for The Perfectionists is the supposedly peaceful college town of Beacon Heights, Oregon. Alison comes to Beacon Heights University as a member of the faculty, and Mona is a recruitment and admissions specialist. Sounds good, right? Not so fast. Lets just say there may be disturbing reasons that go beyond her qualifications for why Alison has been hired at Beacon Heights University. Alisons turned over a new leaf: I want to leave the mean girl I was in high school behind, she says in the first episode, and be a role model for her students. The students: The first episode promises plenty of melodramatic conflicts, relationships and deadly decisions. Whos involved? Nolan Hotchkiss (Chris Mason), the son of the wealthy Claire Hotchkiss (Kelly Rutherford), whose family members are big supporters of the university. Nolan is a real piece of work, though, who seems to take pleasure in cynically manipulating his supposed friends. Surrounding Nolan are Ava (Sofia Carson), who aspires to be a social media influencer; Dylan (Eli Brown), a talented cellist; and Caitlin (Sydney Park), whose ambition drives her to make compromises. Will other Pretty Little Liars characters turn up in Beacon Heights?: We talk about them, we reference them, King said. Mona and Hanna are still very good friends. And we find out a little bit more about whats happening back in Rosewood through Alison and Mona. We wont see them in Season 1, but Im hoping in Season 2, well get a couple visitors from Rosewood in Beacon Heights. Alison (Sasha Pieterse) starts to wonder why she's at Beacon Heights University in "Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectioniss." (Photo: Allyson Riggs/Freeform) Freeform What can viewers expect?: The 10 episodes in Season 1 are, as King said, an opportunity to learn so much more about these characters, and who they are. Were peeling the layers of the onion back, so to speak, so you understand why they have their secrets, why theyre Nolans fake friends. Beacon Heights, Oregon is actually the Portland metro area: In Shepards book, the town of Beacon Heights is in Washington. But the Freeform series is set in Oregon, and filming took place in the greater Portland area. On our first trip up there to location scout, we went to Forest Grove, and we saw Pacific University, King said. It was exactly what we wanted, and the town was a picture perfect little town. I never got that out of my head. I was like, this is it, guys, this is what BHU is supposed to look like. The pilot shot last March, and production on the first season ended in January 2019. In addition to Pacific University, scenes were also filmed in such locations as Lake Oswego (where a sunny-looking party was actually filmed in what King recalls as weather so chilly the cast needed blankets to stay warm when the cameras werent rolling), and Lewis and Clark College, which was used for a scene supposedly set in the lavish Hotchkiss estate. Nolan Hotchkiss (Chris Mason) in the first episode of "Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists." (Photo: James Clark/Freeform) Freeform Pretty Little Liars fans popped up during the filming: King said that while shooting on the Pacific University campus, the crew encountered a lot of Pretty Little Liars fans, who worked as extras. There were also people flying drones over us, trying to figure out what was going on. We were like, Spoiler alert, spoiler alert, because we were trying to keep everything under wraps. So, we always had people looking, just to make sure no one was taking pictures or anything like that. When to watch? Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists premieres at 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 20 on Freeform. -- Kristi Turnquist kturnquist@oregonian.com 503-221-8227 @Kristiturnquist Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. A late-season surge of influenza A -- a strain of the flu that has made up about 99 percent of all flu cases this year -- has sickened thousands of people across the country. In Portland, it left two young girls motherless when it killed a 37-year-old woman and her unborn child. Stephanie Shradar had gotten the flu shot back in October, as she often did at the beginning of every flu season, said her husband, Lee Shradar. He and their daughters, ages 7 and 5, followed soon after. While Stephanie was older for a pregnant woman, she had had two uncomplicated pregnancies with her daughters and took care of herself. Her third child, a girl, was due in the fall. So Lee didnt think much of it when Stephanie started to feel sick March 4. Their daughter, Vera, 7, also felt a little ill. Stephanie went to work at her architectural firm that Monday. The next day, she stayed home because she felt worse. Lee came home for lunch to check on her and ended up running to Rite Aid to get a new thermometer to make sure they could accurately gauge the fever Stephanie had started to run. She only measured 101.5 degrees, so she took Tylenol, drank some Gatorade and rested the rest of the day. Stephanie also called the womens clinic at Providence where she was regularly treated. Providers there prescribed a flu medication that she took Wednesday afternoon. It made her a little nauseated, but Lee said that Stephanie was an extreme rule-follower for these sorts of things, so followed the label on the medication. By lunchtime Thursday, Lee was optimistic that Stephanie was getting better. She had made it downstairs to the couch to watch old episodes of The Office on Netflix. He gave her soup and went back to work and to take the girls to an afterschool event, only to return home by 8 p.m. to find her energy level had dropped and her face and eyes had started to swell. They consulted the womens clinic and Lees mother, a former emergency room nurse, and decided to go to the emergency room. Stephanie never came home. Even healthy people face a risk Stephanie was seen in the emergency room within an hour. An X-ray showed that her chest was fine. She was connected to IVs to get fluids and medication. Lee went home to sleep around 2 a.m. and wasnt too surprised to find the next morning that Stephanie had been admitted into the hospital overnight. Shes sick and shes pregnant its going to take some time to bounce back, Lee said he thought at the time. Pregnancy weakens the immune system so that the mothers body doesnt fight off the baby growing inside her. So even though she was immunized for the flu this year, she faced an increase risk. The flu shot this year also has little protection against the strain influenza A, which has contributed to its spread and severity since mid-February. As of the past few weeks, nearly every state and U.S. territory has reported widespread flu. So far, Oregon has reached the 2016-17 flu season levels and could exceed it to be closer to last years uncommonly bad year. Nearly 99 percent of all people in Oregon who have gotten the flu this year have had influenza A. A Friday report from the Oregon Health Authority said that one child died from the flu the first week of March. The report for the week of Stephanie and her babys death has not come out yet. Oregon Health Authority officials declined to say how many children died this week. The state does not track adult flu deaths. Nearly 140 people were hospitalized that week and 150 were hospitalized the week before. While most people hospitalized for flu tend to be 65 years or older, it is important even for normally healthy people like Stephanie to seek care early if they have weak immune systems. Pregnant women should seek medical care as early as possible if they have any of the flu symptoms, because a small fever can lead to birth defects in a baby, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Daughter born on their anniversary Lee called off work the next day and spent most of the day with Stephanie, with breaks to take the girls to school and pick them up. She was in constant pain Friday and wanted Lee to place wet towels on her head, legs and chest, feed her ice chips and adjust the bed. He had to spoon-feed her a lunch of soft food, and she wanted him to do the same for dinner. But by the time he had arranged for child care, bought groceries and gotten back to the hospital, her condition had significantly worsened. She was swollen and needed help to get to the bathroom. That night, she was admitted to the intensive care unit, where nurses struggled to get a blood pressure reading because her heart was so weak. That was when the bottom was starting to fall out, Lee said. By then, her parents had flown in from their vacation in Arizona to Portland. Stephanie stabilized for awhile, but at 10 a.m., doctors came out of her room to tell Lee and her parents that they had lost the babys heartbeat. Lee and Stephanie had waited until the past few weeks to tell their daughters, Vera and Eisley, that they would have a new sister coming into the world soon. They were cautious because they knew complications could arise. They had been a little unsure about the new baby. Stephanie wanted a third child badly, but Lee had worried about the time and loss of sleep and being parents of an infant for the first time in five years. But they were joyous, if not reeling a bit from what it all meant. Lee was devastated by the first death. But he found that at least the loss allowed everyone to laser focus on Stephanie and what she needed. We were really hopeful, Lee said. But it didnt last long. The doctors had walked down the hall to get water and juice for Lee and Stephanies parents when an alarm code was announced for room 36 -- Stephanies room. They watched staff rush in and could hear the machines beeping. The hospital chaplain arrived. They sat in shock watching the ICU doors open and close, open and close. Then a doctor left Stephanies room to tell Lee that they lost his wifes heartbeat for two minutes. They performed CPR and were able to get it back. We just came in for the flu, mind you, Lee said. She was strong, she was healthy. She did everything she was supposed to do. We just came in for the flu. Pneumonia had overtaken Stephanies lungs in the last four hours. During the next day or two, she was intubated, placed on dialysis and given dozens of medications to try to keep her blood pressure up and reduce her pain. Lees mother and brother were in town by Saturday morning. They all took turns holding Stephanies hand and whispering how much they loved her. We were a team and would always be a team, Lee told her. I needed her to fight. And she did. She did fight. On Sunday, her body naturally delivered the baby -- a good sign, doctors said. Lee chose the name Alice May because Stephanie had suggested Alice and they both liked it. May was chosen by their daughters. It was March 10, 18 years to the day of Lee and Stephanies first date as 19-year-olds at the University of Kansas. But Stephanie was unable to pass the placenta, which meant that a plan was in place to perform surgery first thing in the morning get it out. Lee spent most of a sleepless night in a room above Stephanies. Restless and worried, he sneaked downstairs to hang out with her and the night nurse while everyone else slept. His mother came to get him in the morning, and as they left the room to meet Stephanies parents downstairs, a nurse rushed up to say that another alarm had gone off in Stephanies room. Doctors tried several times to keep her heart beating, and finally the family agreed to a last-ditch effort surgery. At 8:25 a.m. Monday, a doctor told them that Stephanie had died. She would want to be an advocate A week later, Lee still found it unfathomable that this vital woman he had spent his entire adult life with was gone because of the flu. Stephanie was young, healthy and positive, Lee said. She was committed to a successful architecture career and felt she was thriving in her current workplace. After wanting a dog for years, they had just adopted a puppy last year. Lee knows what its like to lose a parent. His father died when he was 8, almost the same age as Vera. And now Lee had to give her and her sister the same horrible news. He said he has been surrounded with friends and family, support and love. A family friend started a GoFundMe to raise money for Vera and Eisleys future education. Lee said he doesnt want them to miss out on college or more than the loss of their mom. I want to be able to provide what my parents provided us for our girls, Lee said. And he hopes that at least Stephanies death could help raise awareness. I think that she would want to be an advocate for people getting help when they need it and not waiting too long. Tensions ran high Friday as lawyers finished their closing arguments to a jury in the case of a white man accused of acting on racist beliefs in killing an African American teenager along a Gresham street. The jury filed out of the crowded courtroom to begin deliberations into the question of whether Russell Orlando Courtier, 40, murdered Larnell Bruce Jr., 19. Jurors met briefly before being sent home and will continue Monday. Courtier drove a Jeep into Bruce on Aug. 10, 2016. He also is accused of hit-and-run driving and the hate crime of second-degree intimidation. Defense attorney Kevin Sali portrayed Courtier as a victim, contending he was beaten by Bruce after arriving at the 7-Eleven at 188th Avenue and East Burnside. Courtier suffered a head injury that, coupled with his Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, caused him to think impulsively and irrationally as he got into the Jeep and ran into Bruce, Sali and defense experts contended. What awaited Russell Courtier as he drove unwittingly to the 7-Eleven that night was a terrifying experience that no human being should ever be put through, Sali said. There have been many, many attempts to downplay and minimize what happened to Russell Courtier. ... What happened to Russell Courtier that night was not a fight (it) was an unexpected, unprovoked, violent attack, the defense lawyer said. Throughout the trial, Multnomah County Circuit Judge Jerry Hodson ordered family members and friends in the courtroom to refrain from expressing emotions. But faint sighs could be heard from Bruces relatives and supporters during parts of Salis closing arguments. A sizable contingent sat through the entire trial. Courtiers parents and brother also have attended the trial. Prosecutor David Hannon told jurors the evidence was clear: Bruce was the victim of Courtier, a man with strong white supremacist ties who was caught on surveillance video chasing down Bruce. Hannon cited Courtiers decision to join the white racist prison gang, European Kindred, more than a decade before the killing. Courtier also had the gangs initials and shield tattooed on his leg, he wore the gangs logo on a hat to the 7-Eleven on the night of the killing and police video after Courtiers arrest recorded him uttering the n-word, the prosecutor said. An expert called by the prosecution diagnosed Courtier with anti-social personality disorder -- a callous indifference for others without remorse. Hannon noted that surveillance video from the 7-Eleven captured Courtier twice maneuvering the Jeep -- into a parking lot across the street and then around in a different direction and onto the sidewalk -- to kill Bruce. Courtiers defense is trying to deny and distract from that undeniable truth, he said. The video shows that Larnell Bruce was murdered, Hannon said. ... (Courtier) knew what he did. He wanted to kill Mr. Bruce. He did it. And then he ran away. Police pulled over Courtier and his girlfriend, Colleen Hunt, a short while later. Witnesses said they heard Hunt egg on her boyfriend from the passenger seat of the SUV -- yelling Get him, baby! and Run him over! In the midst of trial earlier this week, Hunt pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter. She has agreed to be sentenced to 10 years in prison next week. Jurors havent been allowed to hear that Hunt admitted guilt. She offered this detailed, written statement into the court record Wednesday: I plead guilty, because on the date in question, I was in a relationship with Russell Courtier for approximately eight months. During that time, I knew Mr. Courtier to be an active member of the prison gang European Kindred. On the night in question, I observed Mr. Courtier get into a fight with Larnell Bruce. After the fight ended, I aided-and-abetted Mr. Courtiers attempt to intentionally cause the death of Larnell Bruce. I allowed Mr. Courtier to use my Jeep to chase Mr. Bruce twice in Mr. Courtiers attempt to kill Mr. Bruce. I did not stop Mr. Courtier from using my vehicle. ...I did not call for help, and I did not render aid to Mr. Bruce. Following Mr. Courtiers actions, I never called the police nor did I seek help for Mr. Bruce. While arrested, I also lied to investigators in a failed attempt to protect Mr. Courtier. Through my actions, I recklessly caused the death of Mr. Bruce, while manifesting extreme indifference to the value of human life and agree that if a judge or jury heard all of the evidence in this case, I would be found guilty of Manslaughter in the First Degree. With Courtier, jurors have the option of finding him not guilty or finding him guilty of a range of crimes: murder, first-degree manslaughter, second-degree manslaughter or criminally negligent homicide. The most serious crime, murder, could bring a life prison term with a 25-year minimum, but the prosecution has reserved the right to ask for a longer sentence. -- Aimee Green agreen@oregonian.com o_aimee Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. By Ric Sanchez OPINION On Thursday, Netflix informed viewers that it would be canceling One Day at a Time, its reboot of the classic Norman Lear series, after three seasons. It was a decision that stung not just in itself, but also for the way Netflix announced it. There's a scene in the second season of the show that I bring up whenever someone asks me about the show. Penelope Alvarez, a Cuban-American single mother, is arguing with her teenage son, Alex, about his nickname, Papito. He finds it patronizing. "Papito is not an age thing," she assures him. "We call Conrad 'Macho,' because when he was 4, he sang 'Macho Man' once." She fires off a long list of family nicknames as further evidence. Her mother, Lydia, agrees: "It is the way of our people!" The familial tradition is clear to them, even obvious. "If you don't have a nickname, there's something wrong with you," Penelope says. When I was watching the show, my girlfriend (who is white) turned to me on the couch looking amused, and said: I thought that was just your family. While I am Mexican-American -- not Cuban-American, like the Alvarez family -- that scene was the first time I ever had that specific aspect of my Latinx experience represented on screen. As a matter of fact, I wasnt even 100 percent sure that was a Latinx thing until I saw it play out on screen. For all I knew, the torrent of nicknames my family hurls at each other -- and the arbitrary reasoning behind each -- was just a Sanchez thing, maybe a Chicano thing, but never something so ubiquitous that it would make its way into the script of a multicamera sitcom. The Latin American experience is not monolithic, and the show was careful to illustrate that. There were Cuban in-jokes I was not familiar with, sure -- but there were also story lines relatable to anyone who has been threatened by their abuela, shamed for their Spanish proficiency or walked a well-meaning peer through a microaggression. These are the small moments in which "One Day at a Time" excelled. Whether you're Latin American, a single parent, a veteran or part of a working-class family, it felt like the show could take an experience you thought was painfully specific to you and present it to a wider audience with charm and empathy. It helped you see yourself in a new context. This sense of connection and community - this attention to what we share and the ways we differ - made the artlessness of Netflix's announcement all the uglier. The streaming platform's Twitter account is known for its meme-drenched, first-person posts and slightly-too-personal sense of humor. As far as carefully crafted corporate Twitter personas, it's one of the more personal and less egregious accounts one can follow. And as someone who runs a brand's Twitter account myself, I'm sympathetic to whoever has to convey serious news in a voice that feels native to the platform. On Thursday, the account posted a short thread, breaking the news to fans: "Weve made the very difficult decision not to renew One Day At A Time for a fourth season. The choice did not come easily -- we spent several weeks trying to find a way to make another season work but in the end simply not enough people watched to justify another season. "To Justina Machado, Todd Grinnell, Isabella Gomez, Marcel Ruiz, Stephen Tobolowsky, and Rita Moreno: thank you for inviting us into your family. You filled this show with so much heart and warmth and love, it truly felt like home. And to anyone who felt seen or represented -- possibly for the first time -- by ODAAT, please dont take this as an indication your story is not important. The outpouring of love for this show is a firm reminder to us that we must continue finding ways to tell these stories. The statement was strange, never specifying the "we," while seemingly blaming fans for not recruiting more viewers. The account's first-person pronouns are fun and convenient when tweeting about who you stan on "The Great British Baking Show," but feel inelegant when you need to represent the decisions of faceless corporate executives. The ambiguity in "we must continue finding ways to tell these stories" displaces some responsibility onto the viewer. The self-congratulatory nods to "representation" reek of the performative wokeness "One Day at a Time" often mocked. And to make matters worse, the account references the show's low viewership numbers, which Netflix famously does not release, except when it's convenient for them. We're so happy we got to tell your stories, Netflix seems to say. Unfortunately, those stories did not meet our bottom line. What's our bottom line? We can't say. Netflix certainly is under no obligation to support a show that's losing money. It's a business decision, sure. But to cloak a business decision in the language of inclusiveness is tone-deaf at best and condescending at worst. They're effectively telling us that we matter - we just don't matter enough. Seeing "my story" on screen was a truly welcome change to the flood of beige-colored prestige dramedies we're encouraged to binge. But I'm also concerned about the loss of moments like the one I shared with my girlfriend. It was an opportunity for both of us to realize that a singular experience was larger than one person. Seeing yourself represented in mass culture is important. But when others stop seeing us, we lose something greater. -- Ric Sanchez is a social media editor at The Washington Post. He previously worked for the Orange County Register and Seattle Met magazine. A lawsuit filed Thursday accuses the Oregon Department of Human Services and at least three child welfare workers of negligence for placing a teenage girl in a home where she was allegedly sexually abused. The lawsuit, which seeks up to $4.5 million in damages, was filed on the girls behalf by the guardian now caring for her, Jules Moorhouse. It alleges she was also placed in foster homes in which she was neglected. It comes down to the fact that there are lots and lots of minors living in a broken system and being abused and theres nobody thats accountable to it, Moorhouse said on Friday, explaining why she filed the lawsuit. And lots of kids living (with) physical, sexual, verbal, emotional abuse. The girl is now 17 years old. She was in the states care from 2012 through 2015, according to a court document. According to the lawsuit, child welfare workers including a caseworker, a foster home certifier and their supervisor failed to adequately investigate when the girl reported that she was being sexually abused. The lawsuit specifies that she was raped. No criminal charges appear to have been filed related to her allegations of abuse. However, the man whom the suit alleges sexually assaulted her Steven Dearmitt pled guilty in 2015 to four counts of second-degree sexual abuse of a different young teenager in 2003. He was sentenced to 18 months in prison. According to the lawsuit, the girl was cared for by her biological mother throughout much of her childhood. The girl suffered abuse and neglect that reached a profound level by 2012, and the state removed her from her mothers care, according to the lawsuit. Over the course of four years, the state moved the girl back and forth between the mother, Kristina Vosmiks, care and a series of foster home. It was during the time child welfare workers placed her back at her mothers home that the girl suffered sexual abuse, the lawsuit alleges. But the foster homes were no escape, either: there, she was subjected to emotional and psychological abuse and neglect, the girls lawyer, J. Clay McCaslin, wrote in a court document. The DHS defendants failed to monitor (the girls) health, safety and welfare (and) took affirmative steps to place and maintain (her in the) home of Kristina Vosmik, where (the girl) suffered repeated acts of sexual abuse, according to the lawsuit. In 2015, Vosmik told Multnomah County jail officials that she had used meth since 2003. She described a pattern of heavy usage, saying she smoked it all day long all day and all night. Vosmik said she also recently started using heroin, after getting addicted to opiate pills. The state failed to provide the girl with adequate care, counseling and treatment for the trauma she endured, which McCaslin says will require counseling and psychological treatment that could cost as much as $500,000. Her guardian is also asking the court to award the girl up to $4 million in damages for the harm she suffered while in state care, which has caused her post-traumatic stress, panic attacks, nightmares and other trauma-related symptoms. In a court filing, McCaslin said the case falls under a state law intended to protect vulnerable people which could allow a jury to award up to triple the damages. Oregons child welfare agency current faces at least eight pending lawsuits filed on behalf of children who were allegedly abused or neglected while in the states care. A spokesman for the agency did not immediately respond Friday afternoon to a request for comment on the latest lawsuit. At least one of those cases also involves a child whom lawyers say case workers should never have placed in the home of one of his biological parents. In that case, child welfare workers decided a 7-year-old boy should live with his father, despite the fact that he had a violent past, including a 2016 restraining order involving his other children and a 2008 conviction for strangling his girlfriend. The father has been criminally charged with punching, kicking and otherwise abusing the boy. Lawyers for the boy filed a $1.5 million lawsuit on his behalf. Hillary Borrud | hborrud@oregonian.com | 503-294-4034 | @hborrud Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. Longer school years? Smaller classes? More counselors, science and music classes? Those are some of the ideas kicking around Salem as lawmakers contemplate how to spend a proposed $2 billion business tax hike for schools. The money could be a welcome boost for Oregon educators, parents and kids, who have endured nearly 20 years of schools funding well below the national average. However, if the governor and Legislature dont act to insulate schools then Oregons pension crisis will consume a quarter of the tax hike over the next two-year budget cycle and far more in later years, according to an analysis the Oregon Business Council issued last week, based on forecasts from the states pension actuary. That could leave educators back where they are today, watching funds needed for these education reforms siphoned off to cover their share of the states nearly $27 billion deficit in the Oregons Public Employee Retirement System, universally known as PERS. I think itd be better to be honest about it. If youre not going to do PERS reform you should just be honest about it, say this is a PERS tax, said Jeremy Rogers, vice president with the Oregon Business Council. I would have to imagine that doesnt poll as well. Gov. Kate Browns office says it hasnt taken a detailed look at the business councils numbers. But it rejects as a false premise the notion that the state cant meet its soaring pension obligations and boost school funding, too. Choosing between investing in kids and honoring Oregons obligations to public employees, such as teachers and firefighters, is a false choice, said Kate Kondayen, Browns press secretary. The governor is working hard with legislators and stakeholders around the state and across the aisle to accomplish both goals. Insulating Oregon schools While Kondayen didnt respond to inquiries about what the governor is doing to meet both needs, Brown has said for months she wants $2 billion in new business taxes to support schools, to be spread over the states two-year budget cycle. Oregon schools could certainly use the money. Nationally, Oregon ranks in the bottom quarter of per-student funding, around 9 percent below the national average. With an additional $2 billion the state would be about 6 percent above average. A legislative subcommittee in Salem is vetting various proposals to boost business taxes to come up with the $2 billion in the next two-year budget cycle. The group will meet again on Tuesday in Salem. If lawmakers approve the tax hike, they have at least two clear options for insulating the new money from being consumed by rising pension costs: They could designate the tax hike just for schools, leaving other government agencies to fend for themselves as their own pension obligations continue to climb. They could establish a huge side account, from some other funding source, to pay down schools pension obligations. That would protect schools from rising pension costs in future years and enable them to direct more of the new taxes to classrooms. Lets start with the first option, sending all the new taxes to schools. In that scenario, schools would keep several hundred million dollars of the additional $1 billion in each year of the two-year budget cycle even accounting for the rising pension costs. Still, pensions would take a big bite: a quarter of the new tax in the coming budget cycle, and nearly half of the new revenue as early as 2023. Thats the simple math reflected in the fact that Oregons pension costs are rising much faster than even the rosiest forecasts of economic growth. The outlook may sound bleak but it may actually be a best-case scenario. It assumes business tax collections would increase by a robust 5 percent annually over the coming decade, raising the value of new business tax collections to nearly $3.3 billion during the budget cycle ending in 2031. It also assumes the pension funds investment portfolio delivers an unabated stream of hearty returns. If either forecast fails to materialize, perhaps because of a recession, the tax hike would do far less to cover rising pension costs. And the effects of any one down period would cascade forward into future years, making a bad situation worse. Thats why state officials are considering the second level of protection. The governor has been exploring options to protect schools from future pension cost increases. One alternative would be a massive side account, which schools districts could draw from to cover their rising pension costs. That would likely require $3 billion in addition to the business tax increase already under discussion, and maybe more. Im hopeful that the governor comes out with some one-time type solutions, said John Larson, president of the Oregon Education Association, the states main teachers union. He said any new taxes should be earmarked for the classroom, not for the pension deficit. Shes talking about a number of things, Larson said, and were willing to listen to those. Indeed, The Oregonian/OregonLive reported last month that Brown is exploring the possibility of tapping a $1.9 billion surplus in the states workers compensation agency, SAIF Corp., to bankroll that education savings account. That strategy could provide a substantial down payment on the side-account to protect education. But it might face legal challenges, and Oregon Republicans, businesses and SAIF itself have all denounced the idea. Brown has also suggested she might be open to increasing the amount public employees would be required to pay toward their retirement benefits to partially offset rising employer contributions, including schools. That change would eat into those public employees pay or future retirement benefits or likely both. Meanwhile, lawmakers have floated the idea of redirecting the $724 million kicker rebate Oregon taxpayers are due to receive next year to help pay down the states pension debt. Oregonians cherish their unique tax rebate, though, and any effort to divert it could end up before voters who might reject it. Unintended consequences Jim Green, executive director of the Oregon School Boards Association, said he expects that if the tax hike passes then lawmakers would offer districts a list of alternatives for how they can spend their money. Districts may be able to choose from a menu of spending options that might include longer school years, smaller class sizes, more counselors, more science programs. If theyre going to raise money theyre going to want to buy those things, Green said. Setting guides for what districts can spend the money on would provide assurance it goes toward purposes the Legislature supports. But it could create unintended consequences if the tax passes without additional funds to offset future pension costs. Even if all the new taxes go to schools, and none to other state agencies, the share of new taxes consumed by pension costs would continue to climb. Thats because the state consistently fails to pay down the structural deficit created by outsized promised to public employees going back decades. The Oregon Business Councils analysis suggests rising pension obligations would eat up more than half of the tax increase within a decade, leaving less for schools to spend on other purposes. As those pension costs grow in future years, school districts would be obliged to pay for them using money the state hasnt earmarked for specific programs. So while the new tax would fund some additional educational programing and services, rising pension costs would require cuts elsewhere in schools budgets. Schools have limited options for making such reductions from their general fund, Green said, and none are good. Youre either going to cut staff or youre going to cut instructional days, he said. Tough choices. Oregonian reporter Ted Sickinger contributed to this report. -- Mike Rogoway; twitter: @rogoway; 503-294-7699 Former Portland Timbers center back Roy Miller has signed a contract with the clubs second division team, T2. Miller joined the Timbers from Costa Rican club Deportivo Saprissa in 2017 and went on to have a tremendous season in Portland. Miller made 26 starts, recording one goal and one assist during his first season with the Timbers. But Miller suffered a career-threatening injury when he ruptured his Achilles tendon during the 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs. He remained on Portlands roster in 2018, but didnt make an appearance for the first team as he dealt with setbacks during his return from injury. The 34-year-old rejoined the Timbers for preseason this year and will remain in Portland to compete for T2 this season. As one of the most well-respected players in our organization, Roy is and will continue to be an invaluable resource for our younger players, and we are delighted to have him continue with the club and as an influential part of T2 this season, said Gavin Wilkinson, general manager and president of soccer for the Timbers and T2, in a prepared statement. Roy is an incredible person with a wealth of experience that will contribute to the further success of our entire club. Miller previously spent six seasons in MLS with the New York Red Bulls before heading to Costa Rica to join Saprissa. He then returned to MLS to join the Timbers in 2017. -- Jamie Goldberg | jgoldberg@oregonian.com 503-853-3761 | @jamiebgoldberg Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. When news broke that 50 people, including famous Hollywood-types, were accused of paying millions in bribes to get children of the super-rich into elite colleges, people I know shared the news with each other at a breakneck pace, utterly giddy. The national news is usually a gut punch, a blood-pressure-elevating montage before a sci-fi apocalypse movie. But when the story of the moment becomes the downfall, or honestly even the slight discomfort, of the ultra-wealthy, most of us feel pretty gleeful about it. Theres something about this mass schadenfreude, the German word for the feeling of taking joy in others misery, amplified by social media, that brings us -- those of us without summer homes, who have never been on a private jet, who toil away at day jobs and remember when we took the SATs on our own -- together. We share news stories as the college scam unravels. The daughter of one of the charged, Aunt Becky from Full House, is also a YouTube star. She was on a yacht belonging to the Chairman of University of Southern Californias Board of Trustees when the charges were filed, with the chairmans daughter. USC, of course, is the school her parents are accused of bribing and cheating her way into. You couldnt write a better story. It was the same thing in 2017. We constantly refreshed Twitter like fiends as the disastrous Fyre Festival left Instagram influencers eating white bread topped with two slices of American cheese in hastily constructed tents in the Bahamas. It was one of the best social media days of that entire year, and many of us happily watched both documentaries about it. Some of us would probably watch 10 more. But why does it feel so good? Shouldnt we feel guilty for feeling so happy when some rich person weve never met suffers the consequences of their actions? My answer? No. I dont think we should feel even remotely bad for lapping it up in the very rare instances when the super-rich are punished for breaking the law or making a dumb mistake. What were witnessing is the mildest possible rebuke of privilege. Privilege is a sliding scale. Its a hard concept to grasp, but slowly in this country various groups are beginning to understand that they have inherent privileges over other groups of people. Men are starting to acknowledge they are given things, just by the luck of their anatomy, that women are denied. White people are understanding that their skin color gives them advantages they might have never noticed before. White men are seeing the compounding effect of their privilege, and how the opportunities they receive are vastly better than opportunities given to other people. People with more wealth, typically generational wealth, are catching on that maybe they arent inherently better than people born into poverty. Its never been hard to grasp the idea of privilege when it comes to the very, very wealthy. They go to better schools. They go on better vacations. They wear better clothes. They somehow seem to pay fewer taxes. And they dont usually suffer the consequences of their actions, even when those actions are, say, criminal. On the other hand, the poorer and the less privileged a person is, the more extreme the consequences for their actions become. Take the story of the Ohio mom who falsified documents to get her kids into a better school. She was sentenced to 10 days in jail, 80 hours of community service and three years probation. She had been working as a teaching assistant for special needs children and earning a teaching degree, Time wrote of the case, but since she is now a convicted felon, under Ohio law she cannot earn that degree. The cascading effect of consequences for a low-income person can destroy their life. When Donald Trumps former campaign chairman Paul Manafort was first sentenced in early March for, according to The New York Times, perpetrating a decade-long, multimillion-dollar fraud scheme, people went to Twitter to express their outrage and share stories of sentences much longer than the 47 months he received for what seem to be much less severe crimes. Dayonn Davis (15), stole a pair of shoes. No prior record. (60 month sentence) Patrick Beadle, bought some weed. (144 months) Crystal Mason, tried to vote but wasn't eligible. (60 months) Paul Manafort, $25M+ of financial fraud over a decade, lied to prosecutors. (47 months) Judd Legum (@JuddLegum) March 10, 2019 The truth is that we are used to rich people getting away with it. They already get to go to better schools because they started in a better place. They get better jobs because they got better internships because they could afford it or because their parents knew the right people. They get better healthcare in better hospitals, with doctors who take them very seriously. So when they break the law and get caught, for a moment, we are taken out of the dark, real world we live in, where money can buy you anything, and we are pulled up to the surface where its light and we can breathe. Its the America we imagine, where there exists something like real equality. We arent necessarily reveling in the suffering of someone we dont know when we share the stories, watch the YouTube clips or text each other, Can you even believe it?? On a YACHT?? Maybe were just excited by the possibility that things could somehow, someday, be fair. That hard work could matter more than who your parents are. That we all have an equal chance to do well. And face equal consequences when we mess up. Hundreds of employers have begun learning about opportunities to bring heavy equipment, simulators, tools, and hands-on exhibits to a new career exploration event for area middle and high schoolers. Called MiCareerQuest Middle Michigan, the event will take place Oct. 30 at the SVSU Ryder Center, drawing as many as 10,000 students (and their teachers, counselors and career navigators) from an 11-county area -- Arenac, Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Isabella, Iosco, Midland, Ogemaw, Roscommon and Saginaw. Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! and Michigan Works! 7B are leading the creation of the massive MiCareerQuest Middle Michigan event and will be hosting employer information sessions over the next two weeks to describe the event. The goal of the event is to create an experience unlike any other career and college-readiness event -- with interactive, hands-on, informational and inspiring career opportunities delivered directly to students from working professionals in high-demand industries. Employers from five industry sectors -- advanced manufacturing, agri-business, construction, health sciences and information technology -- will produce exhibits within SVSU's Ryder Center for the event. "Imagine CNC machines, CPR dummies, robots, drones, and cranes -- all up close and personal with no 'Do Not Touch' signs in sight," said Chris Rishko, CEO of Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! "We hope to help students find their future in an exciting new way, while also laying the groundwork to build a much-needed talent pipeline for employers." Mark Berdan, executive director of Michigan Works! Region 7B, said, "This is not your typical career fair. In fact, it's not a career fair at all. It's going to be an unmatched opportunity for employers to work together within their industries to help youth better understand the strong career options available right here in Michigan." Employers can contribute and participate in many ways, including sponsorship, leadership in the planning committee, championing the overall composition and flow of an industry's exhibits, and by exhibiting the day of the event. School districts from all 11 counties will begin registering for MiCareerQuest Middle Michigan on April 15. Beginning April 1, a dedicated website at www.micareerquestmm.com will provide event details as they unfold. EDITOR'S NOTE -- OWI means operating while intoxicated. DWLS means driving while license suspended. (MC) is for Judge Michael D. Carpenter. (L) is for Magistrate Gerald Ladwig. (B) is for Circuit Judge Michael J. Beale. (SC) is for Circuit Judge Stephen P. Carras. Sentences may vary based on previous offenses committed by the defendant. Some sentencings include other fees imposed by the state. Compiled by reporter Mitchell Kukulka. Freeland Ryen Paul Nieman, 26, operating-impaired, $900 in costs and fines, 93 days in jail with credit for one day, 12 months probation, may not use or possess alcohol/illegal drugs/marijuana or mind-altering drugs, subject to random drug/alcohol screening, may not enter bars. (L) Midland Artur Michael Bissonnette, 39, Kentucky Street, operating while intoxicated on Oct. 20, 2018, $1,100 in costs and fines, 93 days in jail with credit for one day, must submit to Sober Link for 90 days, may not use or possess alcohol/illegal drugs/marijuana or mind-altering drugs, subject to random drug/alcohol screening, may not enter bars. (L) Lana Jean Callan, 53, East Indian Street, second-degree retail fraud between $200 and $1,000, $125 in costs and fines, 30 days in jail with credit for one day, $72.93 in restitution to Target. (L) Marvel Nyree Connyer, 37, Adelaide Street, disorderly person drunk on Dec. 25, 2018, $425 in costs and fines, 90 days in jail with credit for one day, 12 months probation, not to be involved in any assaulting, threatening, intimidating, violent, aggressive, disorderly or abusive behavior toward any person, may not use or possess alcohol/illegal drugs/marijuana or mind-altering drugs, subject to random drug/alcohol screening, may not enter bars. (L) David William Jammer, 64, Capitol Drive, operating while intoxicated on Nov. 6, 2018, $675 in costs and fines, 93 days in jail with credit for one day, six months of probation, may not use or possess alcohol/illegal drugs/marijuana or mind-altering drugs, subject to random drug/alcohol screening, may not enter bars. (L) Rebecca Marie Keidel, 34, Bayberry Lane, operating-impaired on Nov. 14, 2018, $900 in costs and fines, 93 days in jail with credit for one day, 12 months probation, may not use or possess alcohol/illegal drugs/marijuana or mind-altering drugs, subject to random drug/alcohol screening, may not enter bars. (L) Paul Jeffrey Marsi, 27, Hawthorne Hollow, failure to maintain security of vehicle on Jan. 19, 2019, $325 in costs and fines. (L) Dennis Joseph II Waters, 41, Morningside Drive, assault and battery on Oct. 26, 2018, $725 in costs and fines, 93 days in jail with credit for one day, 12 months probation, not to be involved in any assaulting, threatening, intimidating, violent, aggressive, disorderly or abusive behavior toward any person, no contact with victim, may not use or possess alcohol/illegal drugs/marijuana or mind-altering drugs, subject to random drug/alcohol screening, may not enter bars. (L) Mount Pleasant Devin Rolla-Gene Abbott, 20, failure to report accident to fixtures on Nov. 15, 2018, $325 in costs and fines. (L) Sanford Diane Sue Reese, 49, operating while intoxicated and failure to stop after collision on Nov. 3, 2018, $1,075 in costs and fines, 93 days in jail for first charge and 90 days for second charge with credit for two days, $1,577 in restitution to Zachary Minix, nine months probation, must submit to 60 days of Soberlink alcohol monitoring, may not use or possess alcohol/illegal drugs/marijuana or mind-altering drugs, subject to random drug/alcohol screening, may not enter bars. (L) Washington Tyler Lee Grund, 21, operating-impaired on Nov. 18, 2018, $75 in costs and fines, 93 days in jail with credit for one day. (L) To the editor: I had to let go of who I was to become who I am. Stop. Go back and look at a picture of yourself at 16. Think real hard about being 16. Think about what you were. Now think if thats all you were ever going to be. As God is my witness, I would be dead in the city of Flint if that was true. Or in prison. I was a high school failure. I sold pills and weed. I despised white people. I carried weapons. And I was, without any shadow of a doubt, the biggest thief in Flint. The picture of me at 16 and the picture of me today shows shame for who I was in one, and proud of who I am now in the other. None of the accolades Ive received and there have been plenty in my 40 years in the Great Lakes Bay Region since then would have been possible if that snapshot at 16 was to be my definition for the rest of my life. I was 16. Instead, the shame of who I used to be and the things I did fueled me for the rest of my life, vowing to never let what I was then be my definition. Instead, it was who I didnt want to be that was just as important. Even today I am but a mortal man prone to mistakes but quick to fix and resolve, and every time I do my community and my family benefit. It is also why I felt compelled to reach out to that 16-year-old boy who made a terrible mistake in high school and now faces consequences as a result of them. I dont have a problem with that but I do have a problem with any punishment that is so over the top that this boys life stops at 16 and now becomes his permanent picture and definition for the rest of his life. Would you like your worst moment as a child to be your last picture? I am going to mentor that Midland child and make sure I do everything humanly possible to make sure that this picture of the mistake he made at 16 is the only mistake like it that he makes at 16. As a community we should be invested in making sure that his picture changes just like mind did. The return on that is immeasurable. Life gives us teachable moments as adults and I think those are best served when they are applied with love, guidance and tolerance. Our children, this young man now, needs it most. Pictures are only snapshots of who we are at that time and not who we will become. Lets be the kind of tolerance we preach about when people demonstrate bouts of intolerance, especially when that is a child. Jimmy E Greene, CEO & President ABC Greater Michigan & Greater Michigan Construction Academy Algiers, Algeria (PANA) Algeria has strongly condemned the criminal terrorist attacks perpetrated on Friday on two mosques in the city of Christchurch, New Zealand, which left 49 people dead and several others injured, the spokesperson for the Algerian ministry of foreign affairs, Abdelaziz Cherif, has said Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso (PANA) - The Burkinabe government on Thursday denied a report by the Burkinabe Human Rights Movement (MBDHP) accusing the army of having summarily executed at least 60 individuals in the fight against terrorism Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The Libyan foreign affairs ministry of the Government of National Accord has strongly condemned Friday's terrorist attacks that targeted mosques in Christchurch, southern New Zealand, killing dozens of people and wounding many others Nouakchott, Mauritania (PANA) The Mauritanian government on Friday strongly condemned the terrorist attack on two mosques in the New Zealands city of Christchurch, which claimed the lives of dozens and injured many others Khartoum, Sudan (PANA) - Sudan has condemned, in the strongest possible terms, the terrorist attack against worshipers in two mosques in New Zealand that left scores of people dead and many injured Sarah Tudzin of Illuminati Hotties stopped by the Riverview Bungalow in Austin, Texas to record a Paste session at SXSW. The California indie-rocker released her debut album Kiss Yr Frenemies on Tiny Engines last year under the moniker Illuminati Hotties. Tudzin performed three tracks for Paste(Youre Better) Than Ever, Declutter and I Wanna Keep Yr Dogtwo from her debut album and also her brand new single. Paste recently featured her 2019 pooch-inspired single I Wanna Keep Yr Dog on our Daily Dose column. Watch Illuminati Hotties full Paste session below. Patna: Critically acclaimed Bollywood star Vidya Balan was in Patna on Friday to participate in a debate sponsored by the Patna edition of Hindustan, a daily newspaper. Urging people to use their right to vote, Balan said that there was absolutely no excuse for anyone who did not cast his or her ballot in favor of a candidate of their choice. Dont use your finger just to point faults in others. Use your finger to cast your vote. Until you see the black ink spot on your finger, all other things dont matter, Balan, who has acted in nearly three dozen films like Parineeta, Lage Raho Munna Bhai, Om Shanti Om, Paa, Ishqiya, No One Killed Jessica, Kahani, and Kahani 2, said. Emphasizing the importance of free and fair elections and the right to vote in a democracy, Balan said that it did not matter if ones favorite candidate won the election or not but the fact that millions of people take time off from their daily routine and go to the polling booths, sometimes after much pain, to exercise their voting power was the strongest pillar of any democracy that must be encouraged and cherished. Simply complaining about the system does no good until you understand your responsibility and exercise your power to change the system, she said at the Nari Ke Haq-Haqook program at Gyan Bhawan in Patna. She also briefly talked about her acting career and how she managed to survive in a very competitive world despite initial hurdles and disappointments. Crediting another Bollywood phenomenon Madhuri Dixit for her dream to act in films, Balan said that she tied marital knot at the peak of her career despite many people advising her against it. I didnt listen to them and did what my heart told me to do and I am glad I did follow my instincts and not got swayed by others, she said. Balan, who was in Patna for the second time in her life, praised the city and said she was very impressed by the artwork on Patna walls that could be seen from the Airport to all the way to the Gyan Bhawan. I have made a video of my trip and will soon be uploading it on my social media pages, she said. BEAVER FALLS, Pa. (AP) The fragile, yellowed, woodblock manuscript is in relatively good condition, remarkable considering its age and the location where it was found: in a dark, dank storage closet in the Beaver Falls Historical Museum in the bowels of the Carnegie Free Library on Seventh Avenue. It's garnered worldwide attention, especially in the Chinese community, as it's considered to be a masterpiece of Chinese literature on par with Shakespeare in the West. "The Story of the Stone/A Dream of Red Mansions," written by Cao Xueqin in the mid-18th century during the Qing dynasty, still is required reading for all Chinese. The classic a daunting tome with close to 400 characters and written in vernacular Chinese, first circulated in woodblock manuscripts until its first print publication in 1791. The fictional work, largely a love story, chronicles the rise and fall of an aristocratic family in Beijing. How the manuscript on rice paper, estimated to be at least 175, possibly 200, years old, came to Beaver Falls is fascinating history. But equally so is the story of its discovery in the historical museum. Betty Anderson of Brighton Township is director of the Beaver Falls Historical Museum, charged with acquisition and preservation of collections and artifacts. Basement archives filling five rooms, two of which are storage have about reached capacity, she said. We collect everything, Anderson said, much of it donated treasures from people cleaning out attics and basements or gifted by estates. About five years ago, she went into one of the storage rooms a room that had not been entered in at least 50 to 60 years, she said. Anderson doesn't remember what she was looking for this time, but reached into a box and felt something soft: seven chapters of a rare, woodblock manuscript bound in tightly woven thread. Of course, with it being written in Chinese characters, she had no idea what it was or its historical significance, but thought it would complement the museums Beaver Falls Cutlery Co. collection. The manuscript with an intrinsic value that's priceless, she said was simply displayed on a shelf in a locked, glass case alongside knives, forks, photographs, illustrations and other artifacts pertaining to the cutlery company that operated in the city from 1867 to 1886. How did it get there? In the 1800s, about 255 Chinese laborers were contracted to work in Beaver Falls. Beaver Falls Cutlery Co. was an enterprise of Harmonists at Old Economy in Ambridge. A labor dispute culminated in a strike in 1872. Company officials reached out to John Reeves, a prominent citizen and banker in town. Reeves found willing Chinese laborers in Louisiana who were finishing work on a railroad there. Contracted for five years, they were paid one gold coin a day for 30 days. Two interpreters accompanied the newcomers, who were housed in a beautiful, big stone building called Patterson Manor about 50 feet from the factory and where today stands Beaver County Fruit Co. A third interpreter would come to Beaver Falls, a man of means who brought his wife. It's believed she's the one who brought Xueqin's manuscript of "The Story of the Stone" to Beaver Falls. Anderson said she has no idea how it wound up in a dusty box in the museum's closet. It took Xueqin 40 years to write the book, she said. He wrote intermittently, a few chapters at time that would be bound, copied and shared freely with friends and family. Xueqin died in 1763 before finishing his book. He wrote 80 chapters and it's said 40 more were written by Gao E. Its first print publication was in 1791. Penguin Classics, publisher of global, classic literature, translated and published five volumes of "The Story of the Stone" in 1973, consisting of more than 2,000 pages. An absolute treasure A few years ago, a man and woman of Chinese ancestry visited Beaver Falls Historical Museum from Kent State University in Ohio. Anderson thought they might be interested in the cutlery display and directed them to the showcase. The man leaned in, looked at the manuscript and told Anderson it was displayed upside down, she said laughing. She unlocked the case and handed it to him to look at more closely. "You have one of the four most important books in China," he told her. Those words still bring tears to her eyes at the realization that "we have something so precious," she said. "It's just amazing." About a year ago, Qian Cathy Huang of New York contacted Anderson, having seen the online post. "She asked 100 million questions all through the year, on and off," Anderson said, and also received a copy of the manuscript, which she took to Beijing Normal University. A scholar there authenticated it. "He was excited to death about this," Anderson said. Last fall, Huang and her colleagues Chang Wang, an attorney from Minnesota, and Wei Ming Yao of Pittsburgh, visited Beaver Falls Historical Museum to see the original manuscript and other artifacts. Wang told Anderson that finding the manuscript "is like finding a Shakespearean manuscript." Anderson said likely there are other Xueqin manuscripts in existence, but "this is the first one people can come and see. The others are in private collections." By MARSHA KEEFER, Beaver County Times DUBOIS, Pa. (AP) Sometimes in life, timing is everything. On Christmas 2017, Sandra Baronick Pyne, of DuBois, had been gifted an AncestryDNA test kit by her in-laws, who were creating a family tree. When the results came back in March 2018 showing that Pyne, who grew up in a Slavic family, was predominantly Italian, she and her family brushed it off thinking there was some kind of mix-up. Not much later and not too far away, Debra Monaco Zaffuto, formerly of Brockway, was anxiously awaiting her AncestryDNA results. She and her husband, Barry, living in Ebensburg, enjoy learning about their heritages. They had been to Italy several times to research an Italian village and church records. That quest persuaded Debra to learn more by sending a sample of her DNA to ancestry.com. They had no idea they would be in for the shock of their lives when the results came back in May 2018: They showed that Debra had a sister living in DuBois. That sister was Sandra Baronick Pyne. Stunned and confused, Debra called her brother, Ron Monaco, to discuss what she had learned. Pyne was born in the same hospital and on the same day, Sept. 22, 1942, as the sister Debra and Ron grew up with, Sandra Monaco Smith. The siblings found Pynes Facebook profile picture. The resemblance to Debra could not be denied. That looks just like Mom, Ron Monaco recalled saying. Switched at Birth revealed 75 years later https://t.co/aWCAg619CK via @CElocal The Courier-Express (@celocal) March 12, 2019 If youre familiar with the AncestryDNA, you can click on her name and then it says, shared matches, Zaffuto said. And thats how you know what side of the family the person is from, your dads side or your moms side. But when I clicked on hers, she was related to both sides so she had to be a full sister, not a half. About a week later after this discovery, Debra finally got up the nerve and attempted to contact Pyne online but didnt get an immediate response. They eventually connected via email. It took a while for the gravity of the discovery to sink in for all of them. Sandra Pynes sons eventually had their DNA tested as well, confirming that they were Debra and Rons biological nephews. Ron Monacos DNA test also confirmed that Sandra Pyne and Debra Zaffuto were his sisters. DNA tests on Sandra Monaco Smith showed that she was predominantly Eastern European. Those results and those on her family also confirmed that they were not biologically related to the Monaco family but were a match with the Baronick family. Smith was ill with cancer, so all involved opted not to tell her the shocking news. She died in November at age 76. George and Lucy Monaco, of Brockway, and Robert and Josephine Baronick, of DuBois, went home with the wrong children in 1942. There could be no other explanation. Both couples have since died. "When I opened it and it said that I was Italian and it had names on it that I didn't even know, I told my kids, 'This is a big mistake, I'm Slovak,'" recalled Sandra Pyne. "And I called my sister-in-law and said, 'They mixed my test up. I'm Slovak. Both of my parents are Slovak. I don't believe in this DNA.' And I forgot about it. I never even thought about it again." Years earlier, someone did suspect that she was Italian, however. My husbands grandpa. When Jerry took me over and we were going together and he introduced me, he (grandpa) said, Youre Italian? And I said, No, Im Slovak. He said, I dont believe you, youre Italian. You look like my own daughters. So much like my own daughters. Im going to change your name to Buronico. Early Monaco family photos show Sandra Monaco Smith as a blond-haired, blue-eyed little girl that grew up in the Monacos Italian household. George and Lucy struggled to understand and explain the striking differences. Lucy especially fumed over hurtful comments and jokes made. Sandra Baronick Pyne admitted that if she dwelled on the fact that she will never know her biological parents, it would make her sad. But Im trying to look at the good side. I have the family I was raised with, and I have this new family, she said. The three siblings are thankful they have the opportunity to make up for lost time. Debra and Sandra phone or text each other daily, shop together and enjoy lunches and dinners together. "We may not have been sisters all of our lives, but we will be sisters the rest of our lives," Sandra Pyne said. In turn, Debra said Sandra Monaco Smith will always be her "lifelong sister," but Sandra Monaco Pyne is the "rest-of-my-life" sister. By ELAINE HASKINS, (Dubois) Courier Express No criminal charges will be filed in the death of an 89-year-old York County nursing home resident despite the local coroners determination that her manner of death was homicide. The announcement that criminal charges will not be filed came from the York County District Attorneys Office, but, still, no law enforcement officials have disclosed the specific circumstances that led to Nancy Youngs death. On Friday, the district attorneys office offered only this statement: Our hearts go out to the family of Nancy Young. A thorough investigation was conducted by the Springettsbury Township police resulting in no ascertainable criminal act. The reality is that although a terrible tragedy, the facts as they exist do not rise to the level of a prosecutable incident. News Update: @YCoCoroner releases autopsy results of 89 yo Nancy Young, the Pleasant Acres resident who died one week after a fall in December - https://t.co/6LvI12n7U8 York County Coroner (@YCoCoroner) March 14, 2019 On Thursday, York County Coroner Pam Gay issued an autopsy report, explaining that the manner of Youngs Dec. 15 death had been ruled a homicide because it was the result of an interaction between the 89-year-old and another nursing home resident. The results of that autopsy showed that Young fell sometime in the evening of Dec. 8, when she entered the room of another resident. In the fall, Young fractured her left wrist and left femur, and she later died from her injuries. The fall was determined to be the result of an interaction between Young and another resident, the coroners office reported, adding that both residents had a history of cognitive impairment. In the report, Gay made sure to point out that the coroners definition of homicide can be broad, referencing death that occurs due to actions of another. This definition of homicide does not have legal merit or imply criminal wrongdoing, necessarily, it reads. Criminality is determined by law enforcement. Springettsbury Township police said Thursday that they are not providing additional details about the death and referred questions to the district attorneys office, which replied only with the statement. PennLive is at the Springettsbury Township Police station, where York County District Attorney Dave Sunday and police scheduled a press conference to discuss the recent death of Nancy Young, 89, at Pleasant Acres Rehabilitation & Nursing Center. The York County Coroner's Office ruled the death a homicide. Posted by PennLive.com on Wednesday, December 19, 2018 In December, police and the district attorney hosted a press conference, and, at that time, they said the reported altercation may have been only speculation. Initial statements of speculation were made that she was pushed or that a door was shut on her causing her to fall, but up to this point none of those statements have been corroborated, Springettsbury Township police Chief Dan Stump said in December. WILLIAMSPORT An out-of-court settlement has been reached in one of three suits against Penn State over the way the university investigates and disciplines students accused of sexual misconduct. Terms were not included in the settlement notice filed Friday in U.S. Middle District Court. A spokesperson for the university and one of the plaintiff's attorneys had no comment other than confirming settlement. Judge Matthew W. Brann had been advised in January the parties were engaged in settlement discussions. The plaintiff, identified only as John Doe, immigrated to the United States in 2002, became a citizen eight years later, and was living in California when the lawsuit was filed. The litigation stems from a Title IX panel that found Doe violated the universitys Student Code of Conduct by engaging in nonconsensual sex with a woman identified as Jane Roe in her dorm room Sept. 7, 2016. He says he went to her room after she sent him a text message suggesting they study together. Both were in a pre-med affiliated with Thomas Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia. Doe claimed she tried, unsuccessfully, to seduce him; she said he tried to kiss her and groped her, putting his hand under her clothes. Doe contended the disciplinary process in sexual misconduct cases is tainted by anti-male bias and it violated his due process rights. The university responded the investigation was "fundamentally fair" and denied that its disciplinary process is gender biased. Penn State uses an investigator to gather the facts and prepare a report that is submitted to the parties involved for review and comment. The final report is forwarded to a case manager who determines if it reasonably supports a Code of Conduct violation. If charges are issued and the respondent contests them, the matter is referred to a Title IX panel, which holds a hearing and may impose sanctions, as it did with Doe. A preliminary injunction Brann issued Aug. 18, 2017, prevented the university from enforcing sanctions against Doe, which included suspension for the fall semester and bans from campus housing and the pre-med program. A month later the university notified Doe the panel's findings and sanctions were vacated and he would be retried. Penn State later abandoned those plans. Two other suits that similarly challenge the disciplinary process are pending before Brann. MILTON Frank Rodriguez admits he was one of the residents who was frustrated at what appeared to him to be the lack of police action regarding drug activity he saw regularly in Milton. The police kept saying be patient, the barber shop owner said Friday. His wait is over. Thursday, 160 law enforcement officials conducted an early morning raid in the Northumberland County borough. On Friday, Middle District U.S. Attorney David J. Freed announced that 22 individuals, including one from Harrisburg, have been indicted on drug and firearms charges in an investigation dubbed Operation Save Milton. Rodriguez, among those in the audience for the announcement, applauded the work of investigators. Freed, in outlining the charges, said kilogram quantities of cocaine were sent through the mail from Puerto Rico and transported from California, he said. Those indicted were responsible for more than 20 kilograms of cocaine and several hundred grams of heroin, he said. Each kilogram of cocaine is valued at between $32,000 and $35,000 and each 100 grams of heroin is worth approximately $65,000, he said. You cant overstate the significance of these cases, Northumberland County District Attorney Tony Matulewicz said. The investigation into the pervasive trafficking drug organization responsible for the sharp increase overdose deaths in the Milton area was undertaken in October 2016 by numerous federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, he said. People came forward and provided information to us, Milton Police Chief Curt Zettlemoyer said. Borough police identified the primary location where drugs were being sold, Freed said. Confidential informants were used to make drug purchases, he said. Law enforcement was able to identify a separate but related cell distributing drugs in the Milton-Lewisburg area, he said in explaining the second indictment. There are clear connections between some of the folks in Harrisburg and drugs sold up here, Freed said. Kevin Caban Robles, 29, of Harrisburg, was identified by the prosecutor as a source of heroin and cocaine to distributors in the Milton area. He is charged with conspiring to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine powder, three kilograms of heroin and 50 grams of fentanyl. He is facing 10 years in prison if convicted. Allegations against him include: He and co-defendant Reymond Nieves Hernandez, 31, of Milton, coordinated the exchange of heroin in late March and early April of 2018. He distributed 10 grams of heroin and three grams of fentanyl in Harrisburg in early April 2018. Hernandez and he on April 17, 2018, discussed two anticipated shipments of cocaine that would be sent from Puerto Rico to Pennsylvania. He distributed approximately 20 grams of heroin in Harrisburg on April 20, 2018. Hernandez and he arranged April 27, 2018, for the distribution of heroin and cocaine but the indictment does not identify the location. A co-defendant, not named because he is not in custody, provided him with 340 grams of heroin on May 8, 2018. Additional cocaine was provided May 17, May 23, June 11 and June 18, 2018. He possessed with intent to deliver fentanyl in Union County on Nov. 9, 2018. One of the four individuals indicted but not identified because he is not custody is accused of being responsible for 16 kilograms of cocaine and 1,500 grams of heroin and attempting to facilitate 10-kilogram cocaine deal, Freed said. The other individual allegedly involved in attempted cocaine deal had approximately $150,000 in cash when taken into custody at Newark International Airport, he said. Some of those indicted are facing weapons charges related to an AK-47 assault rifle and six pistols, one of which could fire automatically, discovered in the raids. A bulk quantity of heroin was found in a toilet, said Assistant U.S. Attorney Daryl Bloom who will be prosecuting the case in federal court in Harrisburg. Also seized were hundreds of individual packets of heroin, approximately a half kilogram of powdered cocaine, crack cocaine and marijuana, he said. Although a spike in overdose deaths was the reason the investigation was started, none of those charged is accused of causing a death. Here are the people indicted as a result of the investigation: WASHINGTON (AP) Unbowed by a congressional rebuke, President Donald Trump issued the first veto of his presidency on Friday in a demonstration that he is not through fighting for his signature campaign promise, which stands largely unfulfilled 18 months before voters decide whether to grant him another term. Trump rejected an effort by Congress to block the emergency declaration he'd used to circumvent lawmakers as he tried to shake loose funds for his long-promised wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. The monthslong confrontation now moves to the courts, but not before marking a new era of divided government in Washington and Republicans' increasing independence from the White House. "Congress has the freedom to pass this resolution," Trump said, "and I have the duty to veto it." A dozen defecting Republicans joined Senate Democrats in approving the joint resolution on Thursday as both parties strained to exert their power in new ways. It is unlikely that Congress will have the two-thirds majority required to override Trumps veto, though House Democrats will try nonetheless on March 26. Despite the reproach, Trump seized the opportunity to publicly rebuff Congress and show his commitment to the border wall. In embracing the opportunity to deploy the constitutional power of the veto for the first time, he treated the occasion with all the traditional pomp of a bill-signing. Trump was surrounded in the Oval Office by supporters, including law enforcement officials and the parents of children killed by people in the country illegally, who offered profuse thanks and frequent applause. Trump dramatically signed his veto message and then held the document up for the cameras to capture. President Donald Trump speaks about border security in the Oval Office of the White House, Friday, March 15, 2019, in Washington. Trump issued the first veto of his presidency, overruling Congress to protect his emergency declaration for border wall funding. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)AP Trump wants to use the emergency order to divert billions of federal dollars earmarked for defense spending toward the southern border wall. It still faces several legal challenges from Democratic state attorneys general and environmental groups who argue the emergency declaration was unconstitutional. Those cases could prevent Trump from diverting extra money to barrier construction for months or longer. American Civil Liberties Union, which filed one of the challenges, said the veto is meaningless, like the declaration in the first place. "Congress has rejected the president's declaration, and now the courts will be the ultimate arbiter of its legality. We look forward to seeing him in court and to the shellacking that he will receive at the hands of an independent judiciary," said Executive Director Anthony Romero. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called Trump's veto a "lawless power grab" and railed that, even after both chambers tried to stop him, Trump "has chosen to continue to defy the Constitution, the Congress and the will of the American people." Trump, however, insisted the situation on the southern border is "a tremendous national emergency," adding, "our immigration system is stretched beyond the breaking point." Many lawmakers said Thursday's vote was not necessarily a rejection of the president or the wall, but protections against future presidents namely a Democrat who might want to declare an emergency on climate change, gun control or any number of other issues. It was the first direct challenge to the 1976 National Emergencies Act, just as a Wednesday vote on Yemen was the first time Congress invoked the decades-old War Powers Act to try to rein in a president. That resolution seeking to end U.S. backing for the Saudi Arabian-led coalition fighting in Yemen was approved in the aftermath of the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul and is expected to be the subject of Trump's second veto. Despite the embarrassing defections of the 12 GOP senators, Trump's grip on the party remains strong and the White House made it clear that Republicans resisting Trump could face political consequences. Ahead of the voting, Trump framed the issue as with-him-or-against-him on border security, a powerful argument with many. But Friday, Trump said he had sympathy for the Republicans who voted against him and emphasized that he never truly twisted the arms of lawmakers, because he knew there were not enough votes to override the veto. "Look, they were doing what they have to do," Trump said, insisting he "put no pressure" on lawmakers to vote against the resolution because he realized that the measure was likely to pass. Still, a White House official said Trump won't forget when senators who opposed him want him to attend fundraisers or provide other help. The official was not authorized to speak publicly on internal deliberations so spoke on condition of anonymity. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump painted his usual portrait of a lawless and violent border. He cited "thousands and thousands" of gang arrests and claimed many of the asylum seekers released into the U.S. were "stone-cold killers," ignoring data that shows immigrants are less likely to commit crime. He noted, correctly, a spike in the number of people coming to the border to claim asylum. Trump initiated the showdown months ago when he all but dared Congress not to give him the $5.7 billion he was demanding to build the U.S.-Mexico wall, by threatening a federal government shutdown. Congress declined and the result was the longest shutdown in U.S. history. Against the advice of GOP leaders, Trump invoked the national emergency declaration last month, allowing him to try to tap about $3.6 billion for the wall by shuffling money from military projects, and that drew outrage from many lawmakers. Trump had campaigned for president promising Mexico would pay for the wall. A candlelight vigil is planned in memory of the 49 victims killed in shootings at two mosque in central Christchurch, New Zealand. The vigil, hosted by ICNA Harrisburg (Islamic Circle of North America), will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday on the steps of the Capitol building in Harrisburg. Those who plan to attend are asked to bring LED tea lights or candles in no-spill containers. Dozens of others were injured in the shooting on Friday. A man who earlier claimed responsibility said he was a 28-year-old Australian and described anti-immigrant motives in a manifesto. The man who allegedly carried out the shootings in reportedly broadcast 17 minutes of the attack on a Facebook livestream. Pennsylvania law enforcement officers have increased patrols near mosques as a result of the attacks. The push is on in the Pennsylvania legislature to bail out the nuclear reactors, Exelon in particular. Apparently, this is the legislature paying back Exelon for all the campaign money it has given the politicians. I urge readers to contact their Representative, Senator, the Governor and the PA PUC and demand NO NUCLEAR BAILOUT! Under no circumstances should the nuclear industry in Pennsylvania be bailed out in any amount for any reason. We are being extorted by Exelon with scare tactics and bullying. Exelon considers Pennsylvania a cash cow, and now it wants to milk us even more. Ratepayers have had their electric bills go up wherever state governments have knuckled under to the nuclear lobby and bailed them out. There is no reason the free market cant sort out the problems Exelon is having. It is not the ratepayers fault that Exelon is losing money on some reactors. It is Exelons own fault for bad management. And its not the ratepayers responsibility to open their wallets to give Exelon the profit they seek. Pennsylvania already has some of the highest electric rates in the country, courtesy of the PA PUC and the inability or unwillingness of the legislature to protect the ratepayer. If they allow a bailout of Exelon or any other nuclear company, they will be betraying every ratepayer in the Commonwealth. Sign the petition. Stop the nuclear bailout! Tom McCarey, Berwyn, Chester County According to Department of Homeland Securitys (DHS) own reports, the unauthorized immigrant population in the United States is at a 10-year low. Apprehensions of illegal immigrants has dropped 90% in the past 15 years. The Cato Institute has found that American citizens are more likely to commit crimes than either legal or illegal immigrants. Notwithstanding the campaign sloganeering and hysteria of politicians who would have you believe that Mexicans are rapists and murderers, there simply is no border crisis. We are not being invaded by caravans of drug dealers and criminals. Like any large country with miles and miles of borders, the US has the challenge of enforcing rational and humane immigration policies. This is why we spend $20 billion per year on immigration enforcement agencies. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), alone had a budget of $14.4 billion in fiscal year 2018 with 59,000 agents and support staff. Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of staff said recently: Its a security challenge not a military threat as he announced that he was beginning to withdraw the 6,000 troops who have been sitting idle on the Mexican border. A few more facts: first there are fences and some walls that block about 700 miles of the US-Mexico border. To replace those barriers and to complete a wall project would cost not $5 billion or $10 billion; but about $22 billion of US tax dollars. Finally, the wall Trumps vanity project and rallying cry would have little or no effect on drug traffic. The overwhelming majority of drugs are smuggled through legal ports of entry. The United States Congress is aware of these realities. They put together a bipartisan budget for border security that included some barrier construction and state-of-the-art technology and enforcement techniques that amounted to $3 billion in new funding. President Trump said that was not good enough. After a tantrum that shut the government down for 35 days, and despite the facts, the President, for the first time in our history, made a unilateral declaration against the leadership of both parties in both Houses of Congress that he would declare an emergency and simply take another $6 or $7 billion from other sources. Heres where the rhetoric must stop, and the American Constitution must prevail. This debate is no longer about border security; it is about whether a President can spend whatever revenues he wants simply by invoking emergency powers. Article 1 of the Constitution is quite clear: All legislative powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House Of Representatives. And all bills for raising revenue shall originate in the House of Representatives; but the Senate may propose or concur with amendments The House overwhelmingly passed a resolution prohibiting the Presidents overreach. The Senate followed suit with 12 Republican members defying the President and defending the Constitution. This is the first time that a Congress has voted to block a Presidential emergency declaration. Said Senator Lamar Alexander, Republican of Tennessee: Our nations founders gave to Congress the power to approve all spending so that the president would not have too much power. This check on the executive is a crucial source of our freedom. Even strong border security advocates understand whats at stake here: GOP Senator Rob Portman of Ohio said: "Declaring a national emergency to access different funds opens the door for future presidents to implement just about any policy they want." In Profiles in Courage , John Kennedy wrote: Compromise need not mean cowardice. Indeed, it is frequently the compromisers and conciliators who are faced with the severest test of political courage as they oppose the extreme voices of their constituents. The 59-to-41 vote in the Senate means that 12 Republicans had the courage to face the wrath of a President who has shown that he can be vindictive. Some withered under the threat of a primary challenge (see Gardner, Sasse, and Tillis) but lets give laurels to those who supported their Country over their party. Senator Pat Toomey, you did the right thing and your voters know it. This victory over a misguided President and his near maniacal obsession with a big beautiful wall will be short lived. His veto of the Congresss effort to reign him in will spark a string of new legislative challenges and even fiercer partisan battles. But for now, let us remember a brief, shining moment when the US Congress rose to its Constitutional duty. Mark S. Singel served as the 27th lieutenant governor of Pennsylvania from 1987 to 1995, alongside Gov. Bob Casey. He was acting governor from June 14 to Dec. 13, 1993, when Casey got sick. This column serves as the liberal counterpart to Charlie Gerow as part of the Donkey & Elephants series of contrasting opinions. After 40 years, memories start to fray around the edges and things that once were perfectly clear take on a muddy haze. And while all the events of what should have been a normal spring morning in March of 1979 no longer are crystal clear, some remain indelibly etched. March 28 was the day the Three Mile Island Unit 2 nuclear reactor went haywire, releasing radiation into the air and nearly melting down. It was the ultimate out-of-body experience. I was a young reporter working in the West Shore office in Camp Hill that Wednesday morning when we received the first word that something was happening at the nuclear plant. By late afternoon, we began to understand the circumstances. But since this nuclear accident stuff was new to everybody, it took a while to sink in. Operators of the plant downplayed the danger and, well into Thursday, everything seemed under control. Thursday evening and Friday morning, however, all hell broke loose. It was reported that damage to the reactor core was much worse than expected, significantly higher amounts of radiation had been released and a hydrogen bubble had formed and could cause a catastrophe. Against that backdrop, I was dispatched to the tiny York County community of Goldsboro, directly across the river from the crippled reactor. The streets were largely deserted except for the State Police cruiser parked on the main street. As I approached the cruiser, a crooked finger extended from the drivers window motioning me closer. What are you doing here, he asked? I showed him my press pass and said I was on assignment. His only response was: Did you want to have kids? That was one of the indelible moments. As the situation deteriorated and we all faced the prospect of a mass evacuation and a possible meltdown of the reactor, which could have left most of central Pennsylvania uninhabitable, thoughts turned to my family and friends. This was before cell phones and social media so, if we were scattered to God-knows-where, how would we ever reconnect? That was another indelible. And finally, in what had to be the most ironic twist, the Jane Fonda-Michael Douglas thriller The China Syndrome about a California nuclear plant accident eerily similar to what was happening here, was airing in Harrisburg area theaters. One of our bureau reporters had gone from his home to an interview Wednesday morning and hadnt been aware of the accident until hearing a news report on his car radio just before getting to the office. Nuclear accident. Radiation release. What the heck was going on? He had gone to see The China Syndrome the night before. Indelible No. 3. Roger Quigley was a reporter and editor at The Patriot-News from 1977 to 2008, and a correspondent and columnist until 2017. ---- This month marks the 40th anniversary of the partial meltdown at the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant. PennLive is collaborating with PA Post and WITF on a multimedia, month-long look at the accident, its impact and the future of TMI and the nuclear industry. That includes new documentary television and radio programs, long-form audio stories, photos, and digital videos. The work will include the voices of people affected as well as community events to engage with listeners, readers and viewers. Christine Thompson, 16, looks at the Jamaican-style bread pudding baked and unveiled by chef Damon Menapace (not pictured) in the kitchen of Le Virtu restaurant in South Philadelphia on Thursday, March 14, 2019. Thompson's parents are currently seeking sanctuary in the First United Methodist Church of Germantown. All proceeds from the bread pudding at the restaurant will go to the Thompson family. Read more At a South Philadelphia restaurant owned by the grandchild of Italian immigrants and the child of Chinese immigrants, enters a girl of 16, the child of Jamaican immigrants. In her hands, Christine Thompson holds her cherished family recipe for bread pudding instructions and ingredients passed down to her mother, Oneita, from a great-grandmother the teen never met but whom her mother says she favors in both character and characteristics. Oneita Thompson learned the recipe over a charcoal fire in an island nation she and her husband, Clive, fled in 2004 after gangs burned their farm and threatened their lives. Now facing a deportation order, they have found refuge at the First United Methodist Church of Germantown, where 16-year-old Christine, who was born in the U.S., each day fears that her parents will be sent back to a country she has never known. The co-owners of East Passyunk Avenues Le Virtu, Francis Cratil-Cretarola and Catherine Lee, have long advocated for immigrants rights and immigration reform, a mission borne as much out of their own family history as their relationships with their mostly Mexican staff, who are more family than employees. What little free time the couple have, they give to causes and fund-raisers including a couple of upcoming fund-raising dinners for the New Sanctuary Movement of Philadelphia in hopes that the contributions they deem vital to their success will one day translate into legislation that treats immigrants more as the backbone of the country than its enemy. Theyve lost some diners over their vocal support, gained others. But their commitment hasnt swayed. It was at the church, which is also offering sanctuary to a Honduran family, where Cretarola first tasted Oneitas bread pudding and got the idea to sell the dessert at his restaurant to help the family, which includes Christines 12-year-old brother, Timothy. Overnight, the raisins and cherries were soaked in white rum and red wine in the churchs industrial kitchen. They printed up the recipe and titled it Christines Jamaican-style Bread Pudding for Immigrant Children. The next day, Cretarola and Lee picked Christine up and brought her to the restaurant. The girl was quiet, part youthful cautiousness around adults, part learned guarded silence. She brought some supplies, the fruit, wheat bread. Timid at first, soon she was playfully bossing chef Damon Menapace around the back kitchen, instructing him to be sure to keep the ends of the bread for texture. Though he later recalled, with a laugh, she did allow him to add his own flourish, a rum-caramel sauce. On the way back to the church that night, she opened up more, asking about the streets and buildings they passed that were new to her. Before they sought sanctuary in a pair of spare rooms at the church, the family lived in a rural New Jersey town with fewer than 800 people. She smiles at the idea of something that means so much to her mother reaching beyond the church threshold neither of her parents can pass for fear of being deported. The owners had planned to sell the dessert through March, but they are going to keep the $8 Sanctuary Bread Pudding on the menu for a while longer. The other day a diner wrote the owners to say he wouldnt be returning to the restaurant, offended by whatever goodwill came to the immigrant family from the sale of the bread pudding. But sometimes, diners too full from a hearty pasta dinner to fit dessert, have purchased some of the bread pudding in support anyway. The restaurant is giving all proceeds to the Thompsons, but the family has decided half should go to help families separated at the border. As hard as its been to be confined to the church for seven months, to live in limbo, Oneita says, they have been luckier than those who have been separated from their children. In a Germantown church, an immigrant from Jamaica who desperately seeks asylum wants all immigrants who desperately seek entry to a better life to know that they are not alone. To purchase a piece of Sanctuary Bread Pudding, stop in at Le Virtu at 1927 E. Passyunk Ave. Senate Minority Leader Jay Costa (D., Allegheny), pictured above, was told about sexual assault allegations against a senator in his caucus nearly a year before launching an investigation into them. Read more HARRISBURG Top Senate Democrats were notified about a sexual assault allegation against Sen. Daylin Leach nearly a year ago but launched a formal investigation only after the woman contacted nearly every senator earlier this month, according to emails obtained by the Inquirer and Daily News and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Cara Taylor, who lives in the Allentown area, wrote in a February 2018 email to Senate Minority Leader Jay Costa (D., Allegheny) that Leach sexually violated her nearly 30 years ago, when she was a teenager and Leach was representing her mother in a criminal case. Costa forwarded the information to the chief legal counsel for Senate Democrats, who responded to Taylor that neither Sen. Costa nor the Senate of Pennsylvania have the authority to review your claims under the Senates Workplace Harassment Policy, according to a copy of the email exchange. The chief counsel, C.J. Hafner II, noted that the accusations predate Sen. Leachs legislative service and told her she could contact several organizations that offer counseling and referral services. I believe they have the experience and resources to assist you, Hafner wrote. Earlier this month, Taylor traveled to the Capitol and delivered to nearly every state senator copies of her private criminal complaint against Leach. That is when Senate Democrats decided to hire an outside legal firm to investigate the allegations, which Leach, a Montgomery County Democrat, vigorously denies. On Thursday night, Costa said he was only vaguely aware of the allegations last year. Now that Taylor has submitted a complaint to him and other senators, members are looking into it and asking questions, Costa said. Its contrary to where we were before, he said. It was not elevated to the point where the alleged victim here was filing a private complaint. In her complaint, which has not been formally filed in the court system, Taylor alleges that in 1991, when Leach was a lawyer defending her mother in an attempted homicide case, he lured her into oral sex. At the time, she was 17 and trying to help her mother, she wrote. Taylor falsely took the blame for the attempted homicide a decision that led to a perjury conviction. The Inquirer and Daily News and the Post-Gazette typically do not name victims of alleged sexual assault unless they agree to be identified, which Taylor has done. In an interview Friday, Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin said Taylor spoke about the matter with an attorney and an investigator with his office late last year. He said Taylor was told that the allegations fell outside the statute of limitations. Although his office has not received a formally filed copy of Taylors criminal complaint, he said it would have to reject it because the alleged events are too old to prosecute, which would preclude his office from even opening an investigation. There would be no purpose in going further, Martin said. Senate Democrats this week said they had asked the law firm of Eckert Seamans to conduct a separate investigation on their behalf. It is unclear whether the firm has a timetable for completing its work, the results of which Senate Democrats have promised to share publicly. Lawyers for the firm did not return requests for comment Friday, and Senate officials did not respond to requests for documents describing the scope of the firms work and its cost to taxpayers. Leach has not responded to requests for comment about the Senates inquiry. A statement posted to his Twitter account Thursday night indicated that he intends to file a defamation lawsuit. A spokesperson for Leach did not provide further details, saying that the legal documents were still being finalized. Asked about the Senates investigation, Leach spokesperson Frank Keel said, Sen. Leach is grateful for any opportunity for due process, as long as it is a fair proceeding. The allegations by Taylor have a lengthy history. Her mother, Kathleen Speth, after being convicted of attempted homicide, raised the assault claim in a 1993 complaint filed with the state disciplinary board for attorneys. The board wrote in a letter that there was not enough independent evidence to proceed. Speth raised it again in an appeal of her conviction. In a hearing, Leach took the stand and denied an inappropriate relationship with Taylor. HARRISBURG State Sen. Daylin Leach on Monday sued a woman who has accused him of luring her into performing oral sex when she was a teenager and he was an attorney representing her mother in a criminal case nearly 30 years ago. Leach, a Democrat from Montgomery County, contends that Cara Taylor, along with two Philadelphia-area women, have defamed him by peddling what he calls a fictional 1991 encounter of sexual assault, including in online forums. He is seeking at least $50,000 in damages, according to a copy of the suit filed Monday morning in Common Pleas Court in Philadelphia. The three defendants have sought to achieve their goals by seeking to exploit for their own malicious purposes an important political movement in order to broaden the audience of their false claim among a trusting, unknowing, and unsuspecting public, to wrongfully mobilize and incite unwitting accomplices against plaintiff, and to inflict maximum harm on plaintiff and his family based on accusations they know to be false, Leach contends in the suit. Reached for comment, Leach, who has repeatedly denied Taylors accusation, said he would not discuss the case until Tuesday. He did not explain why, saying only that he promised his legal team he would be disciplined. His lawyer, Joseph R. Podraza Jr. of Sprague & Sprague, did not return a call seeking comment. Marni Jo Snyder, a Philadelphia lawyer acting as spokesperson for the three women, called Leachs lawsuit an unsuccessful attempt to silence these women and an attack on free speech. She added: They have strong voices that they are entitled to use, and I know that there are many people out there who value those voices. I will only say at this time that truth is an absolute defense to the claim and that Mr. Leachs condemnation of the #MeToo movement as a method for defamation makes me sick. In filing the defamation suit, Leach has taken a legal route not often used by public officials who have been accused of misconduct as part of the #MeToo movement. Onetime California lawmaker Matt Dababneh last year sued a lobbyist, claiming she defamed him by alleging he pushed her into a bathroom and masturbated in front of her. Also last year in Alabama, former U.S. Senate candidate Roy Moore, who was accused of pursuing relationships with teenagers, sued four of his accusers. Those lawsuits are ongoing. Leachs lawsuit targets Taylor and two other women Colleen Kennedy of Havertown and Gwen Snyder of Philadelphia, both activists in the #MeToo movement. He contends Kennedy and Snyder have shown a reckless disregard for the truth in gleefully republishing and embellishing upon the serial liars fabrication. Kennedy is among several women who spoke out against Leach after a December 2017 story in the Inquirer and Daily News that detailed allegations from eight women and three men who claimed the senator behaved inappropriately toward young female campaign staffers and volunteers on multiple occasions between 2008 and 2016. In response, Leach on Facebook called Kennedy a truly horrific monster, and a human wrecking ball of hate. He later deleted the comment, of which several people took screenshots. Snyder, a delegate during the 2016 Democratic National Convention, accused a fellow delegate, Walter Weeks, of indecent assault in a case that generated national headlines. A Philadelphia Municipal Court judge acquitted Weeks, ruling that the testimony of two character witnesses provided on Weeks' behalf was enough to raise reasonable doubt. Senate Democrats announced last week that they had hired an outside law firm to conduct an investigation into Taylors allegations. The move came after Taylor distributed to the offices of nearly every senator copies of a private criminal complaint that described the alleged sexual assault. In the complaint, Taylor alleged that decades ago, Leach had asked her to perform oral sex when she was 17, while he was representing her mother, Kathleen Speth, in an attempted homicide case. Taylor was convicted of perjury after she falsely took the blame for the crime, for which her mother was ultimately convicted. In his lawsuit, Leach said that Taylor conveniently declined to sign the private criminal complaint and distribute it to the appropriate law enforcement authorities. Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin said last week that Taylor had met with a prosecutor and investigator from his office, but that his office had not received a formal copy of her complaint. Martin said Taylor was told that her case fell outside the statute of limitations for criminal charges, and that on that fact alone, his office would not pursue it. On Monday, Temple University law professor and civil rights lawyer David Kairys said it is unusual to see public officials file defamation suits. A landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision, New York Times v. Sullivan, established that a public official must show the remarks were made with actual malice that is, with knowledge that it was false or with reckless disregard for the truth. Kairys also said the court case differentiated between statements of fact and statements of opinion. The latter, he said, leaves ample room for people to express controversial and even incendiary points of view. You dont see this much, and in my view you shouldnt, Kairys said of such lawsuits, because when you go into public life, you really should have thicker skin than that. Kairys also said such suits by public officials run the danger of being viewed as silencing critics. Such actions, nicknamed SLAPP lawsuits or Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation have been the subject of legislation in recent years. Last session, the Senate passed a bill aimed at curbing and quickly resolving such suits. Leach was a cosponsor and voted for it. The measure died in the House. Editors' Note: Some portions of this suit or its attached exhibits contain sexually graphic information. An 18-year-old Bensalem High School student was killed when the dirt bike on which he was a passenger collided with an SUV in Bensalem on Friday afternoon. Police said Raymond Horner, of Bensalem, was pronounced dead at Jefferson Torresdale Hospital after the 4 p.m. accident. The operator of the dirt bike, a 16-year-old male whose name has not been released, was in extremely critical condition, according to a report posted Saturday on the Bensalem Township Police Departments website. The dirt bike was not street legal and was traveling at a high rate of speed east on Virginia Avenue when it failed to stop at a stop sign and crashed into a GMC Acadia that was going south on Tyler Avenue and had the right of way, police said. Horner and the dirt bikes driver were not wearing helmets and were thrown from the bike upon impact with the SUV, police said. The driver of the Acadia was treated for minor injuries, police said. Police are requesting anyone who witnessed the accident to contact them at 215-633-3719. This image released by A24 shows Julianne Moore in a scene from "Gloria Bell." Everyone is vanishing around Julianne Moore's title character in Sebastian Lelio's "Gloria Bell." The disappearances dont come with blood-curdling shrieks or thundering score cues, but with the humdrum ebb of middle age. People just move away or recede from view. (A24 via AP) Read more As the resilient title character in Gloria Bell, Julianne Moore drives from one personal crisis to the next, in the front seat of her car, singing with indiscriminate joy to whatever is playing on her classic hits station. For particularly avid fans of Moore, this may remind you of the first time you saw her in a movie. That goes all the way back to 1992 and The Hand that Rocks the Cradle, in which she had a small but typically vivid role as the real estate broker who thinks her best friends prospective nanny is a psycho and advises her not to make the hire. Never let another woman occupy a power position in your home, she warns at one point. That pre-feminist line would probably be deleted today, but what you couldnt erase is the impression made by Moore the formidable redhead, alone her car, smoking a cigarette and wielding a mobile phone (the five-pound 92 kind) while she multitasks in the front seat, giving us a quick sketch of a hard-driving career woman delivered with a soloists virtuosity. Im genuinely touched that you even remembered, Moore said laughing, speaking from home, where she was doing her own multitasking, feeding her dog and fielding questions on the phone. That role at the time was a very big deal to me. It was just a very big deal that I got that part. And I remember that [director Curtis Hanson] gave me a lot freedom in that space to just be really angry and to just really play. These days, acquiring plum roles has become easier for the sought-after Oscar-winner, whos made more than 70 movies since, and who works as hard as the woman she played in Hand. She was in Paris a few years ago on business when she met Chilean director Sebastian Lelio and told him how much she loved his movie 2013 Gloria, about a divorced woman on the cusp of 60, fighting the kind of invisibility that can afflict women that age. Lelio, in turn, talked about how much he loved Moores work, they talked about working together, and on that day, they conspired to remake Gloria for U.S. audiences the film that became Gloria Bell. Shes done remakes before famously Gus Van Sants exacting duplicate of Psycho in 1998, but she cautions that this is a different undertaking. Psycho was really quite different. What Gus Van Sant was attempting he really wanted to say, lets recreate this, and lets see what happens when we do that. What we did with Gloria is completely different. Its reimagined, really. Its been described as a shot-for-shot remake, but thats just something some reporter said, Moore cautioned. Reporters! Anyway, shes right. Even moving the story from Santiago to sunny California has brightened it considerably, as has Moores interpretation of the title character. Moore doubles down on Glorias optimism. The characters (almost) unflagging good nature is infectious, and almost transgressive a form of rebellion against the forces marginalizing her. Shes divorced, her adult children are pulling away, she has an unreliable new boyfriend (John Turturro) whos probably full of beans and who is increasingly absent when he should be present. Shes someone who has such an incredible desire to be fully alive. She so insanely invested in all of her experiences, in loved ones, in trying new things, said Moore, who has found that this role has stayed with her more than most. And Ive taken some of that with me, you know? I find myself thinking, What would Gloria do? Glorias attitude, she notes, also runs agreeably against the tenor of the times. There are a couple of instances in the film when Gloria turns a conversation thats about to become bitterly combative or political and steers it into different territory. It reveals Glorias subtle intelligence, and also her conciliatory nature. Its a tough time right now, in our country and in the world. I was talking about that with Sebastian, and he said a wonderful thing: The best kind of film is the kind that reminds you to live, to be inspired, to be engaged, I think we all could use a little bit of that. Moore has made her share and been recognized for it. Shes been nominated for Oscars five times, and won best actress for Still Alice. Id like to say that Im impervious to that stuff, but Im really not, she said, laughing. Its your peers, and theyre recognizing what you do, and that means something. It especially means something to Moore, who early in her career wondered whether shed ever get a chance to work with top industry talent. I was working in soap operas and trying break into movies or Broadway, but I could not get those jobs. It just wasnt happening. I and was like, OK, this is probably going to be my career, and then in the early 90s, I made Vanya on 42nd Street and Safe and Short Cuts, and all of a sudden Im this independent film actress with all of this credibility. It cemented a relationship with Todd Haynes that extended to Far from Heaven (netting her an Oscar nomination) and Wonderstruck, and it made a Moore an A-lister with access to Oscar-nominated roles in The Hours, Boogie Nights, and The End of the Affair. And, of course, she bedded down with the Dude in The Big Lebowski. Shes at the top of her game and profession now, so much so that Julie Taymor pegged her to play Gloria Steinem in the directors forthcoming biopic. From now on, I play only women named Gloria, she quipped. Moore, whos fanatical about research, said shes a bit ashamed to realize how much she didnt know about Steinem and the fight for the Equal Rights Amendment. I was a kid, a teenager at that time. You dont always pay that much attention to whats going on when youre 15, said the 58-year-old star. But beyond the particulars of the politics of the ERA, she came to be impressed by the persona and intellect of Steinem, which also runs counter to the tenor of the times, in its own way. Im impressed with the consistency of message. Its one of tolerance. She is not somebody who is rash. She can talk to anyone, listen to anyone, and shes open to everybody. In this file photo, Sen. Daylin Leach speaks during a debate at the The Portuguese Club, 2019 Rhawn St., Tuesday, April 29, 2014. Read more HARRISBURG -- The Montgomery County Democratic Committee has called on State Sen. Daylin Leach to resign, saying his behavior since sexual-harassment and assault allegations against him surfaced had created a divisiveness that threatens party harmony and undermines our cause at a time when we need to be united. Without exaggeration, party members have described your lashing out, lack of judgement and tone deafness, as examples of behavior not becoming a state senator and leader of our party, said a Thursday letter signed by 38 party leaders, including county chairman Joseph S. Foster, along with several dozen members of the county Democratic committee, several Democratic colleagues in the state legislature, and Congresswoman Madeleine Dean. Leach responded Friday, declaring in a letter to Democratic county leaders that he will not resign, under any circumstances. That letter touted the Democrats efforts in the General Assembly and on behalf of the party, and recounted how he had responded to false accusations of literally the worst kind. Nobody is at their best when they feel attacked, Leach wrote. And I am truly sorry for the occasions when I reacted angrily. And while this is not an excuse, my anger was the result of deep personal hurt. The partys letter is sure to deal a crushing political blow to Leach, who is up for reelection next year and whose district falls squarely within Montgomery County. It landed just weeks after the Democratic leaders in neighboring Delaware County, portions of which Leach also represents, also called for the senator to step down. Other prominent Democrats, including Gov. Tom Wolf and Lt. Gov. John Fetterman, have said Leach should leave public office. It was unclear what led to the county partys call for Leachs resignation. Foster did not return calls. The party had steadfastly stood by Leach since The Inquirer and Daily News reported in late 2017 that eight women and three men claimed the senator behaved inappropriately toward young female campaign staffers and volunteers on multiple occasions between 2008 and 2016. Since then, a Lehigh County woman has come forward, accusing Leach of luring her into performing oral sex on him in 1991, when she was 17 and he was a lawyer in private practice representing her mother on attempted-murder charges. Senate Democrats last month hired an outside law firm to investigate her allegations. That inquiry is ongoing. Leach has vehemently denied the accusation. Last month, he sued the woman, Cara Taylor, along with two Philadelphia-area activists, Colleen Kennedy and Gwen Snyder, alleging defamation. The lawsuit has caused controversy -- his critics have said it amounts to political bullying and a brazen move to silence women. In their letter, Montgomery County Democratic leaders acknowledged Leachs leadership and championing of progressive issues and causes, long before they were embraced by other Democrats. They avoided weighing in on the substance of the allegations of harassment and assault, saying that was "for others to decide. Instead, they singled out Leachs behavior in the aftermath of the scandal. Leach has lashed out on social media at several female critics, including Kennedy, whom he called a truly horrific monster and a human wrecking ball of hate." He has since taken down that post. Leach also took a political swipe at fellow Democratic Sen. Katie Muth of Montgomery County last year, when Muth was running in a hotly contested race for the state Senate. At the time, Leach was angered that Muth, a sexual-assault survivor, had refused to share the stage with him at a political event. He sent a searing email to Foster, calling Muth a dreadful person and a toxic hand grenade, and suggested that he would work against her candidacy. In his response to the partys letter, Leach defended himself by saying he is pushing back against the propensity of the modern Democratic Party to eat its own, and attack its most progressive leaders. And I am fighting for basic decency in how we treat each other. In their letter, Montgomery County Democrats said Leach had created disruptiveness in the party. Officeholders, they wrote, have a responsibility to keep the trust of both the people and the party they represent. We do not lightly dismiss that trust, but recognize that when behaviors so weigh down that trust as to shatter it to the point of continuous controversy, the damage becomes irreparable," they wrote, adding; "What has been done, cannot now be undone. Ethiopian relatives of crash victims grieve at the site where the Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 Max 8 crashed shortly after takeoff on Sunday killing all 157 on board, near Bishoftu, south-east of Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia, on Thursday, March 14, 2019. Read more ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia - A new piece of evidence found by investigators on the ground here suggests the Ethiopian Airlines flight that crashed Sunday may have had a problem with a new flight-control system also suspected in the crash of a Lion Air flight in October. It is the second piece of information suggesting similarities between the two crashes involving Boeing 737 Max 8 jets. Investigators found a device known as a jackscrew in the wreckage. The jackscrew, used to set the trim that raises and lowers the plane's nose, indicates the jet was configured to dive, according to John Cox, a former pilot and an airline-safety consultant with the Washington-based aviation-safety consulting firm Safety Operating Systems. Cox, formerly the top safety official for the Air Line Pilots Association, said he was privately briefed on the evidence Thursday by people familiar with the investigation. "All we can say definitely is that the trim was in a position similar to the position found on the Lion Air airplane and it would cause the nose to go down," he said. "This will be consistent with a nose-down flight path, which they think is likely with the Ethiopian airplane. "It points to one central link," Cox said. "We need the data from the flight data recorders. We need it as quickly as possible. . . . The faster that we get that information, it will let everyone know what needs to be done. We don't know in fact if these accidents are related. There are some similarities." Daniel Elwell, acting administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, cited newly refined satellite tracking data and evidence recovered from the wreckage site as factors in his decision to ground the jets Wednesday. That data also showed similarities to the Lion Air flight. Cox said he believes the jackscrew is the new evidence Elwell was citing. Meanwhile, French aviation experts began work Friday on the plane's heavily damaged data and voice recorders. Officials with France's Bureau d'Enquetes et d'Analyses, which has extensive experience analyzing crashes in Europe, said that work to retrieve information from the flight data recorder of the Boeing 737 Max 8 has begun in coordination with the Ethiopian investigation team. President Trump spoke by telephone with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Friday to again express his condolences and underscore the United States' commitment to work with Ethiopian and international civil aviation authorities on the investigation. Eight Americans were among the 157 killed in the crash. The focus now, however, is on the two "black boxes" that arrived in France on Thursday. Germany had earlier turned down the opportunity to examine the recorders. The data extracted from the recorders will be used to reconstruct the six-minute flight before the plane crashed in a farm field about 40 miles from Addis Ababa, killing all 157 passengers and crew members. That data includes the voice communication of the pilots and the readings of the various sensors. Officials from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which sent three investigators, the FAA, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency and Boeing also are assisting in the probe. Experts say it typically takes almost a month to provide a comprehensive analysis of the data in the recorders, but at least some early information could be available within 24 to 48 hours. Former NTSB chairman Christopher Hart, who also is a pilot, said the jackscrew, combined with data gathered from the plane's black box, could give investigators a sense of the plane's flying position before the crash. "By knowing the stabilizer and elevator position they know what kind of forces the plane was experiencing in the moment," he said. In a preliminary investigation, the crash of a Lion Air Max 8 plane into the Java Sea on Oct. 29 was attributed to a faulty sensor causing an automated system to push the nose of the plane down. The possibility that the same scenario occurred in Ethiopia has prompted precautionary groundings of the plane all over the world. In all, more than 300 people have died in the two crashes involving the Max 8 jet. Preliminary flight data showed the Ethiopian Airlines plane in trouble almost immediately and struggling to gain altitude in the high thin air above the Addis Ababa airport. The plane descended and then sharply ascended, while moving at speeds far in excess of normal. Within minutes the pilot radioed the control tower reporting "flight control" problems and was given clearance to return. In a description of the exchange reported by the New York Times, Capt. Yared Getachew sounded panicked as he requested permission to return to the airport, shortly before losing contact. Even amid the worldwide grounding of more than 370 of its 737 Max jets, officials at Boeing continued to maintain the planes are safe to fly. The Chicago-based aviation giant has stopped delivery of the planes, a spokesman said Thursday, but their production continues. In the case of the Lion Air crash in Indonesia, faulty information from the angle-of-attack sensor convinced the automated system that the plane was going to stall and pushed its nose down while the pilots wrestled to pull the aircraft up. The result was an erratic flight path in which the plane descended and ascended repeatedly before plunging into the Java Sea, killing all 189 passengers and crew aboard. The data from the recorders in Ethiopia could help determine whether the potential links between the two crashes are real and related to this automated feature on the craft - hundreds of which were flown around the world until China decided to ground them Monday and other countries followed suit. The recorders are required on all flights - all over the world - and are built to withstand fire, heavy impact and intense water pressure. The Ethiopian Airlines devices were discovered soon after the crash, leading some U.S. officials to hope the insights they contain will quickly help determine more about what caused the jet to crash shortly after it left Addis Ababa bound for Nairobi. While Ethiopian investigators have the ability to download information from black boxes, they lacked the tools to do so in this case, given the extensive damage, according to the FAA. Experts were not surprised the Ethiopians opted to send the flight recorders to France rather than the United States, saying such a move was not unprecedented. "Many times foreign countries just have a good relation with a certain other country," said Jeff Guzzetti, a former NTSB investigator and FAA safety manager. "It is closer to fly the recorders to Europe than it is to the United States. From a technical standpoint, the United States would have been the best place to have it because all your technical experts are in the United States. But in past investigations, foreign countries would not opt to send to the U.S., because they were the ones who built the airplane" Lazo and Aratani reported from Washington. The Washington Posts Faiz Siddiqui in Washington contributed to this report. A police officer directs pedestrians near the site of one of the mass shootings at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Read more (Bloomberg) New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said she will change gun laws as the country reels from a terrorist attack at two mosques that left 49 people dead and at least two still fighting for their lives. While the nation grapples with a form of grief and anger that we have not experienced before, we are seeking answers, Ardern told a news conference in Wellington on Saturday morning. I can tell you one thing right now, our guns laws will change. In what Ardern has described as a well-planned terrorist attack, a shooter walked into a packed mosque in the South Island city of Christchurch on Friday afternoon and opened fire on worshipers, filming and live-streaming the act to social media. After killing 41 people there, he drove to another mosque and continued the massacre, murdering a further seven people. Another person died in hospital. Police said 42 people were injured and two of them are in a critical condition, including a young child. A 28-year-old man will appear in Christchurch District Court Saturday charged with murder. Two others remain in custody and police are still assessing whether they were involved. Another person apprehended yesterday has been released. Brenton Harrison Tarrant, the man facing murder charges, carefully modeled his attack for an internet age: He live-streamed the massacre, shouted out a popular meme slogan, and published a long, rambling manifesto replete with inside jokes geared for those steeped in underground internet culture. Tarrants manifesto spread quickly Friday on 8chan, a dark corner of the web where those disaffected by mainstream social media sites often post extremist, racist, and violent views. The 74-page screed espouses white supremacist views even as it contradicts itself. Some saw similarities to the 1,500-page manifesto written by Anders Behring Breivik, a Norwegian right-wing extremist who killed 77 people in 2011. Ardern said police have recovered two semiautomatic weapons, two shotguns, and a lever-action firearm. Tarrant had a category-A gun license, which meant he could legally buy the weapons he used, she said. That will give you an indication of why we need to change our guns laws, Ardern said. Banning semiautomatic guns is certainly one of the issues that Im looking at with immediate effect. The national security threat level has been lifted to high from low, and while authorities have no reason to believe other suspects are at large, they said it shouldnt be assumed the danger has passed. Police have asked all mosques nationally to shut their doors and advised people to refrain from visiting them until further notice. The events have shocked New Zealand, a peaceful nation in the South Pacific where gun violence is relatively rare. The death toll makes it the countrys worst mass shooting since a prisoner of war camp riot in 1943, which killed 49. Christchurch, a city of about 390,000, is still recovering from a 2011 earthquake that killed 185 people and destroyed the central business district. President Donald Trump said he spoke to Ardern and told her the U.S. stands in solidarity with New Zealand and offered any assistance. He joins leaders from around the world expressing their sympathies, including U.K. Prime Minister Theresa May, Queen Elizabeth, and Pope Francis. New Zealanders around the country and overseas gathered in quiet vigil and prayer, while people in Christchurch began leaving flowers near the two mosques. In London, people gathered at the New Zealand memorial in Hyde Park and flags were lowered to half-mast on government buildings. Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel urged the city to show its support for affected communities and to remain vigilant. The attacks were an act of cowardice, Dalziel told reporters on Saturday. This article contains information from the Associated Press. One person was killed in a rowhouse fire late Friday afternoon in Northeast Philadelphia. Three firefighters were injured battling the blaze that broke out around 4 p.m. in the 3200 block of Birch Road, said Fire Department spokeswoman Kathy Matheson. The injuries were not life-threatening. The fire was declared under control shortly after 5 p.m. More than 45 firefighters responded to the scene. The cause of the fire was under investigation. No further information was available on the person killed. Red Paw Relief Team, which responds to pet owners affected by fires, assisted neighbors who needed help with a dog, two cats, three birds and a bearded dragon lizard. FILE photo shows cooling towers of the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant reflected in the Susquehanna River in in Middletown, Pa. Newer reactor designs are moving away from gargantuan nuclear power plants like the TMI in favor of small modular reactors with fewer parts. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) Read more In the six decades since the Shippingport Atomic Power Station near Pittsburgh began operating as the nations first commercial nuclear reactor, the industry has built ever larger plants to improve the economies of scale. A typical commercial reactor now produces about 20 times as much electricity as the first Shippingport unit in 1958. So it may seem counterintuitive that the industry sees the future not in building gargantuan plants, but in small modular reactors, or SMRs factory-built units with fewer parts, designed to be installed underground with passive cooling systems that the industry says are inherently safe. Unlike large nuclear units, which are designed to operate full-tilt all year, SMR designers say the small units are flexible enough to be cranked up as needed to fill gaps in production from wind and solar-powered plants a critical role as some see nuclear power as a carbon-free bridge between fossil fuels and renewable energy. The worldwide market for such reactors is expected to reach $100 billion by 2035, according to the Nuclear Energy Agency, an intergovernmental organization based in Paris. Among U.S. developers, NuScale Power of Corvallis, Ore., has surpassed its competitors including Holtec International of Camden to advance its design closer to the finish line. Supported with $275 million in U.S. Energy Department grants, NuScale has invested about $800 million to design a 75-foot-tall cylindrical reactor that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission is expected to approve next year. NuScale aims to begin producing power at its first plant in 2026. Theres a good case for SMRs in a lot of markets, both in the U.S. and throughout the world, said John Kotek, vice president of policy development and public affairs for the Nuclear Energy Institute, an industry trade group. But not everyone is sold on their promise. SMRs seem to be a fad, as far as I can tell," said Edwin Lyman, a senior scientist with the Union of Concerned Scientists, who wrote a widely cited paper questioning the economics of small reactors. Theres very really little substance to its motivation, other than the private sector cant afford ordinary sized reactors. Safer, cost-effective Each NuScale reactor would produce 60 megawatts of power the same as the original Shippingport reactor, which was decommissioned in 1989. The company says its units can be installed individually, or in groups. The initial plant at the Department of Energys Idaho National Laboratory would contain 12 reactors. Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems is the primary customer. The smaller reactors will be cost-effective because they can be mass-produced at existing U.S. manufacturing facilities, dramatically reducing onsite construction costs and times, said Tom Mundy, NuScales chief commercial officer. Parents and alum of Valley Forge Military Academy and College in Radnor demanded the reinstatement of the school's president Saturday at a meeting of the alumni association. Read more Parents and alumni of Valley Forge Military Academy and College upset with the shocking departure of the schools president demanded his reinstatement at a meeting Saturday and also called for the chairman of the board of trustees to resign. The impassioned appeals at a monthly meeting of the schools alumni association -- attended by some trustees -- mark the latest chapter in a controversy that has engulfed the Radnor Township school since Walter T. Lord resigned as president earlier this month. We demand that Gen. Lord be reinstated immediately, said Scott Keith Newell, according to a live stream of the closed meeting that was posted on Facebook. The group of about 100 parents and graduates at the meeting immediately responded with a loud standing ovation. Newell said he drove nearly 700 miles from his home in South Carolina to attend the gathering. Some parents threatened to pull their students out of school if the former president was not reinstated. Lord, who was hired in April of last year, resigned in a letter to the board dated March 8. In a Facebook post, the 54-year-old retired Army major general and Valley Forge grad attributed his departure to a philosophical disagreement with our board chairman, differences that he said could not be resolved. The chairman, John English, responded in a statement last Sunday that the board was surprised by the resignation and that Lord was stepping down because of irreconcilable differences. Lord had offered to remain until the end of the school year but was terminated immediately because the resulting turmoil was detrimental to the institution, English wrote. READ MORE: President of Valley Forge Military Academy resigns suddenly English, a Valley Forge alum who was honorably discharged from the Marines in 1996, did not return calls seeking comment Saturday. Lord also could not be reached for comment. Conrad E. Muhly IV, one of the trustees who attended the alumni association meeting, said on the live stream that he had talked with Lord three weeks ago and told him that he was doing a great job and that its been better than Ive seen in 17 years during my tenure on the board. When Lord resigned -- the third leader to leave the school in four years -- Muhly said he was shocked. Board members asked if there was anything they could do to change his mind, Muhly said, and Lord responded no. When Muhly, another board member, and the schools attorney attempted to meet with Lord the next day, Lord refused and was not available, Muhly said. Col. Stuart B. Helgeson, the schools superintendent and chief operating officer, and Vince Vuono, chief financial officer, have assumed Lords duties. READ MORE: Valley Forge Military Academy rocked by presidents ouster Parents and alumni have been expressing their outrage and disappointment in online posts, with more than 2,100 school graduates and others signing a Change.org petition demanding improved transparency from the board and the return of Lord. You have a major general who has an impeccable record and he comes here and has a problem. I think the issue is the board of trustees, graduate Damien Timofai said Saturday before walking into the meeting. Maj. Gen. Lord has been nothing but caring, professional, respectful and progressive. Hes raised money, exceeding goals, and is an exceptional leader, said Timofai, 29, a businessman from Upper Black Eddy. Roque Schipilliti, president of the alumni association, and Maj. Gen. Jessica Garfola Wright, a former undersecretary in the Department of Defense, have resigned from the board of trustees in the wake of the controversy. English said he offered to step down if the board wanted to retain MG Lord, but the offer was unanimously rejected, according to his statement. On Friday, Lord reposted a message from a year ago on Facebook: When a toxic person can no longer control you, they will try to control how others see you. The information will feel unfair, but stay above it, trusting that other people will eventually see the truth just like you did. The turmoil comes as the 91-year-old school is working to recover from a troubled decade during which enrollment declined and officials struggled with dwindling finances, layoffs, and allegations of hazing and sexual assault by students. Valley Forge Military Academy and College is an all-boys private school for cadets in grades 6-12 and also offers a two-year coed college program. Greg Offner Jr., a graduate who serves on the alumni associations board of directors, said the meeting was a valuable exercise. Members of the board of trustees promised to consider the parent and alumni concerns in an upcoming meeting, Offner said. I think that everyones opinions were heard and that the general tone leaving the meeting was one of optimism, said Offner, 36, a business consultant from Philadelphia. At this point," he said, the involvement and attention that parents and alumni are investing in this school is greater than Ive ever seen. Its this kind of activism that the school needs to thrive, and I hope it continues. Richard J. Crosbie, 96, of Feasterville-Trevose, a Navy physicist whose research in aeronautics helped pave the way for the exploration of space, died Tuesday, March 5, of kidney failure at his home. Born in Washington, Greene County, Mr. Crosbie graduated from Trinity High School there, and earned a bachelors degree in mathematics and physics at Washington and Jefferson College. He enlisted in the Navy Reserve in October 1942 and was deployed to the Pacific from 1943 to 1946. He attended officer training school at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md. Mr. Crosbie spent two years aboard the attack transport ship American Legion. The ship was part of a division that conducted training for amphibious warfare in the Pacific. Mr. Crosbie was honorably discharged with the rank of lieutenant junior grade in May 1946. After the war, Mr. Crosbie returned to teaching mathematics and physics as a professor at W&J. At the same time, he completed a masters degree in physics at the University of Pittsburgh. In 1950, when he was two years into his doctoral studies at Temple University, he accepted a position in the biophysics department at the Naval Air Development Center in Johnsville, Pa. The center had a human centrifuge, part of the preparation for the exploration of space. The centrifuge was used to help Navy test pilots and, later, Americas first astronauts learn about the massive G forces they would encounter in flight. In the years before and during World War II, the blackout problem encountered by Navy pilots, due to the accelerations of their aircraft during air combat and dive-bombing maneuvers, became of great concern to aviation physiologists, Mr. Crosbie wrote in an undated history of the device. In order to study the problem and to develop methods of protecting the pilots during these maneuvers, human centrifuges were built. In its first phase, the centrifuge had a 50-foot arm that could spin the pilot around at high speed. But in 1962, Mr. Crosbie and engineer Bob Ruppert collaborated on a capsule that once placed on the end of the arm could roll the occupant backward, forward, and side to side while spinning. Mr. Crosbie converted the controls on the original centrifuge from machine-driven to computer-driven. The algorithms and controls he developed mimicked the feel of the forces a jet fighter pilot would encounter in flight. Ruppert then built the device. It rolled and pitched to see the effect of the G forces on the body, Ruppert said. Inside the capsule, the pilot looked at simulated scenes outside the window. The device was renamed the dynamic flight simulator (DFS). Mr. Crosbie was called the Father of the DFS. We were co-fathers of that machine, said Ruppert, 92, with a chuckle. He is retired and living in New Jersey. In the 1960s, with the arrival of space flight, Mr. Crosbie programmed the DFS to mimic the G forces an astronaut would feel at launch time and again when reentering the atmosphere, Ruppert said. Mr. Crosbie was proud of his experience working with the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo astronauts. John Glenn was his favorite. Glenn considered the simulator the most effective thing they had in training for their flights, Ruppert said. His expertise in aeronautics made Mr. Crosbie a celebrity among his peers. He retired from the Navy in 1984 without ever taking a sick day, Ruppert confirmed. An avid duplicate bridge player, Mr. Crosbie taught bridge classes for many years. He and his wife, Joyce Gehris Crosbie, were so graceful on the dance floor that friends referred to them as Fred and Ginger, alluding to film stars Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. In addition to his wife of 66 years, he is survived by a daughter, Jill R., and a son, Scott D. A brother died earlier. A life-celebration service will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, April 28, at the Estate at Eagle Lake, 214 Sykesville Rd., Chesterfield, Burlington County. Transportation to the event will be provided at 12:30 p.m. from Scottsville United Methodist Church, 2400 Brownsville Rd., Feasterville-Trevose, Pa. 19053, and returning at 4 p.m. RSVP by email to scottcrosbie@msn.com. Memorial donations may be made to the Scottsville church at the address above. President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office of the White House, Friday, March 15, 2019, in Washington. Read more NEW YORK (AP) President Donald Trump played down any threat posed by racist white nationalism on Friday after the gunman accused of the New Zealand mosque massacre called the president "a symbol of renewed white identity." Trump, whose own previous responses to the movement have drawn scrutiny, expressed sympathy for the victims who died at "places of worship turned into scenes of evil killing." But he declined to join expressions of mounting concern about white nationalism, saying "I don't, really" when asked whether he thought it was a rising threat around the world. "I think it's a small group of people that have very, very serious problems, I guess," Trump said. "If you look at what happened in New Zealand, perhaps that's the case. I don't know enough about it yet. But it's certainly a terrible thing." Trump was asked about white nationalism and the shooting deaths of 49 people at mosques in Christchurch after he formally vetoed Congress' resolution to block his declaration of a national emergency at the Mexico border. His veto, aimed at freeing money to build more miles of a border wall against illegal immigration, is expected to survive any congressional effort to overturn it. Questioned about the accused gunman's reference to him, Trump professed ignorance. I didnt see it. I didnt see it, he said. But I think its a horrible event a horrible, disgraceful thing and a horrible act. The man accused of the shootings, whose name was not immediately released, left behind a lengthy document that outlined his motivations. He proudly stated that he was a 28-year-old Australian white nationalist who hates immigrants and was set off by attacks in Europe that were perpetrated by Muslims. In a single reference, he mentioned the U.S. president. "Were/are you a supporter of Donald Trump?" was one of the questions he posed to himself. His answer: "As a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose? Sure. As a policy maker and leader? Dear god no." The White House immediately denounced the connection. But the mention from the suspect, who embraced Nazi imagery and voiced support for fascism, nonetheless cast an uncomfortable light on the way that the president has been endorsed by some on the far right. Trump, who as a candidate proposed a ban on all Muslims entering the United States, has drawn criticism as being slow to condemn white supremacy and related violence. After a 2017 clash between white nationalists and anti-racist protesters in Charlottesville, Va., that left one demonstrator dead, Trump said there were very fine people on both sides of the confrontation. He also did not immediately reject the support of David Duke, a former KKK Grand Wizard, during his presidential campaign. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D., Conn.) tied Trumps inflammatory language to the violence half a world away. "Words have consequences like saying we have an invasion on our border and talking about people as though they were different in some fatal way," Blumenthal said on CNN. "I think that the public discourse from the president on down is a factor in some of these actions." Former Texas Rep. Beto O'Rourke, who declared his Democratic candidacy for president this week, said, "We must call out this hatred, this Islamophobia, this intolerance, and the violence that predictably follows from the rhetoric that we use." The White House, in comments before those remarks, rejected any link to Trump. Its outrageous to even make that connection between this deranged individual that committed this evil crime to the president who has repeatedly condemned bigotry, racism, and made it very clear that this is a terrorist attack, Mercedes Schlapp, the White Houses director of strategic communication, told reporters. We are there to support and stand with the people of New Zealand. Trump himself telephoned New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, offering condolences, prayers, and any help the U.S. might be able to provide. She told reporters she answered, My message was: to offer sympathy and love to all Muslim communities. Trumps hard-line immigration rhetoric and calls to return America to its traditional past have been embraced by many on the conservative fringes, including some who troll online with racist imagery, as well as white supremacists who have looked to engage in violence. In Florida, Cesar Sayoc, who had decorated his van with Trump propaganda, was accused of mailing explosives last fall to Democratic Party officials and media members, many of whom had been criticized by the president. The president said Sayoc had been "insane" long before he became a Trump fan. Last month, a former Coast Guard official was accused of stockpiling weapons in a plot to kill media members and liberal politicians as part of a plan to transform the U.S. into a white ethno-state. It took more than a week for Trump to respond to the plot, which he deemed "a shame." Many experts who track violent extremists have identified white nationalism as a growing threat in the U.S. and abroad. In January, for example, the New York-based Anti-Defamation League said that domestic extremists killed at least 50 people in the U.S. in 2018, up from 37 in 2017, and said, "White supremacists were responsible for the great majority of the killings, which is typically the case." Some critics have accused U.S. authorities of not dedicating adequate resources to stem a threat of domestic terrorism. However, the Washington Post reported last week that internal FBI data showed more domestic terror suspects were arrested last year than those allegedly inspired by international terror groups. Associated Press writers Jill Colvin, Michael Kunzelman, and Alexandra Jaffe contributed to this article. A home for sale at 521 Leconey Ave. in Palmyra, Burlington County, was previously the home of Titanic survivor Augustus Henry Weikman, the lone American crew member on the ship. Read more He survived the icy waters of the North Atlantic as the Titanic sank, wrestled his way out of a body bag after being mistaken for dead, and delivered bombshell testimony before the U.S. Senate. Now, his 120-year-old former Burlington County home is back on the market. Listed on Wednesday for $204,900, the four-bedroom Victorian at 521 Leconey Ave. in Palmyra was once home to barber Augustus Henry Weikman, the lone American crew member of the Titanic, who survived the sinking in 1912. Originally from Philadelphia, Weikman moved with his family to Palmyra in the 1890s. One of just 706 people who survived the Titanic disaster, the barber returned to Burlington County in April 1912 as a hero, and townsfolk lined up to shake his hand and wish him well as he was wheeled to his house, according to an account from Will Valentino of the Palmyra Historical and Cultural Society published in The Inquirer in 2008. Real estate listings for the house make no mention of the Titanic survivor, but describe the property as a magnificent Victorian home with 9-foot ceilings, crown and ceiling moldings, boasting wood flooring and a cozy L-shaped front porch." The home is being sold in as-is condition, according to the listing. It wasnt clear whether the seller knew about its famous previous resident or had any connection to Weikman. More information couldnt immediately be obtained from the listing agent. The night the unsinkable ship struck an iceberg, Weikman helped officers load lifeboats until he was washed overboard into the Atlantic. After downing a shot of brandy when he boarded the Carpathia the ship that rescued survivors of the Titanic Weikman passed out and, with a weakened pulse, was mistaken for dead, his grandson told Valentino. When Weikman awoke, he was sewn into a body bag in steerage, and women in the neighboring cabin recounted the barbers screams as he kicked his way out of the bag, according to Valentinos account. Testifying via affidavit in the Senate Titanic hearings, Weikmans memory of the fateful night drew widespread attention for his defense of the ships owner, J. Bruce Ismay, who was cast as a coward for abandoning the ship while others perished. Although records show he relocated multiple times, Weikman remained in Palmyra until his death on Nov. 7, 1924. In 2012, a dollar bill once owned and autographed by Weikman sold for $32,835 to an Australian collector at an auction commemorating the 100th anniversary of the ships sinking, according to the Burlington County Times. 1.4k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Having been forced to resign from Breitbart for promoting pedophilia, self-styled alt-right provocateur Milo Yiannopoulos says he has $12 million in funding to establish a new media company opposed to the propagation of factual news. You know, because its politically correct. According to his Facebook post, MILO has formed a new media company with $12 million in funding from undisclosed investors. He has hired a seasoned media executive to lead the new 30-person team based in Miami, Florida. The new company, MILO, Inc., will manage MILOs books, tours, merchandise and radio and TV opportunities. This isnt some vanity nameplate on a personal blog. This is a fully tooled-up talent factory and management company dedicated to the destruction of political correctness and the progressive left. I will spend every waking moment of the rest of my life making the lives of journalists, professors, politicians, feminists, Black Lives Matter activists and other professional victims a living hell. Free speech is back and it is fabulous. Free speech, in fact, has never left, so it can hardly come back. The problem has been that conservatives like Yiannopoulos think they are the only ones allowed to speak freely. Any opinion or more importantly, any fact raised in objection is instantly denounced as politically correct and therefore invalid. There is also a great deal of hypocrisy involved. For example, Nazis like Yiannopolous like to refer to themselves not as Nazis but as alt-right. The problem is that alt-right is a politically correct term to disguise the fact that Nazis are, in fact, Nazis. And for a guy who claims to champion free speech and opposes political correctness, Yiannopoulos really hated it when people called his support for pedophilia exactly what it was. No doubt hes still sore about losing that lucrative book deal as a result. It is hardly surprising that Yiannopoulos found somebody to give him $12 million to wage war on facts. There are plenty of rich white men who hate facts and one of them sits in the White House surrounded by other rich white men who hate facts. Dishonesty in support of white privilege is hardly in short supply right now on the political right in general or in the White House in particular. It is unlikely we will see anything new from Yiannopoulos despite his pledge to fight harder and look hotter than anyone else on the political right. While Yiannopoulos sees himself as the vanguard of the culture war on American campuses, what he objects to is anybody holding an opposing view. While claiming he has the right to be as offensive as he wants, he believes nobody has a right to be offended, or to respond to his provocations. 483 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard By Susan Heavey and Nathan Layne WASHINGTON/NEW YORK (Reuters) Russian tycoon Oleg Deripaska sued the United States on Friday, alleging that it had overstepped its legal bounds in imposing sanctions on him and made him the latest victim in the U.S. probe into Moscows alleged election interference. In what legal experts called a long shot attempt, Deripaska asked a federal court in Washington to block the U.S. Treasury Department from using the devastating power of such sanctions, which he claims were arbitrarily applied to him last April and violated his right to due process under the U.S. Constitution. Deripaska, his lawsuit says, has been unfairly swept up in a general hysteria based on unfounded allegations about him spread by members of U.S. Congress and others, set against the backdrop of Special Counsel Robert Muellers investigation into possible collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign. A Treasury spokesman declined to comment on a litigation matter and referred Reuters to the Justice Department, which declined to comment. Washington dropped the sanctions on Deripaskas two main companies, Rusal, the worlds largest aluminum producer outside China, and its parent En+ Group, in January after an intense lobbying campaign in which the oligarch agreed to relinquish control over his corporate empire. But Deripaska himself remains blacklisted. Deripaska, who secured a spot among Russias elite group of oligarchs after prevailing in the aluminum wars of the 1990s, said the sanctions rendered him a pariah, shunned by business partners and banks, and had erased four-fifths of his net worth. The effect of these unlawful actions has been the wholesale devastation of Deripaskas wealth, reputation, and economic livelihood, his attorney, Erich Ferrari, wrote in the 28-page lawsuit submitted to the U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C. When Deripaska was hit with sanctions in April, the Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) alleged that he and other rich and influential Russian oligarchs were profiting off their ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin and from the states malign activity around the world. The lawsuit questions whether Treasury can really back up those claims. It asks the court to order OFAC to hand over evidence and other records and remove Deripaska from the sanctions list. Doug Jacobson, a trade lawyer in Washington, said that while the court may agree to order OFAC to hand over some records it would likely defer to the agency on the sanctions themselves. Hes asking the judge to basically look at the executive order and make determination independent of OFAC and I think thats a very big ask, Jacobson said. Michael Dobson, a former senior official at OFAC who worked on Russia sanctions before leaving the agency in late 2018, called Deripaskas lawsuit an annoyance claim that was unlikely to get traction given the broad deference given to OFAC by the courts. Ultimately I dont really think this case is going to go far, said Dobson, now at the Morrison & Foerster law firm. Deripaska said that he had been unfairly criticized by members of Congress, including by Senator Robert Menendez, who had called for holding off on the easing of sanctions on Rusal and En+ to see if the Mueller probe turned up anything on Deripaska. Deripaska has come under scrutiny by Mueller but has not been charged or accused of any wrongdoing in that probe. He is of interest to Mueller because of his ties to the Kremlin and his decade-long relationship with Paul Manafort, the one-time campaign chairman for U.S. President Donald Trump, who this month was sentenced to a total of seven and a half years in prison in two criminal cases brought by Muellers team. Trump has repeatedly called Muellers investigation a witch hunt and denies any collusion with Russia. Russia denies interfering in the 2016 presidential election. After all of that time spent investigating Russias alleged activities, it is not surprising that OFAC had to rely on rumor and innuendo to designate Deripaska, the lawsuit says. It appears to be the case that there is simply no evidence Deripaska is involved in the Russian Governments activities. (Reporting by Susan Heavey and Nathan Layne, Additional reporting by Meredith Mazzilli and Karen Freifeld in New York, Arshad Mohammed and Andy Sullivan in Washington and Anastasia Lyrchikova in Moscow, Editing by Rosalba OBrien) 1.9k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Sen. Chuck Schumer vowed that his Senate Democratic caucus would continue to protect America from Trump even after the president vetoed the national emergency blocking resolution. After Trump vetoed the resolution with more racist language about immigrants, Schumer said in a statement to PoliticusUSA: It is no surprise that the president holds the rule of law and our Constitution in minimal regard. There is no emergency; Congress has refused to fund his wall multiple times; Mexico wont pay for it; and a bipartisan majority in both chambers just voted to terminate his fake emergency. While the president has chosen to trample all over the Constitution, we Democrats in the Senate will never stop defending our country from an overreaching president. Trump doesnt understand that by having to veto a congressional effort to block his claim of a national emergency on the southern border, he has already lost with most Americans. Donald Trump has never been interested in the majority of Americans. The only people that he really cares about are those who voted for him in 2016. While Trump is looking out for his base, Democrats are trying to protect the entire country. One political party is being ruled by a man who is out to shrink the Republican Party down to its whitest elements, while Democrats are trying to protect and govern for all Americans. Sen. Schumer was correct. The fight is far from over. Democrats are going to fight Trump in Congress, the arena of public opinion, and the courts because it is not enough to serve as a check on an overreaching president. Donald Trump must also be stopped. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 7.7k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Rachel Maddow exposed a real Trump handmaids tale with a document showing that Trumps head of refugee resettlement, Scott Lloyd, was tracking the pregnancies of teenage refugees, who had been raped, to deny them access to requested abortions. Maddow said: This is the federal government with your tax dollars keeping an individualized record of pregnant teenage girls menstrual cycles, whether theyve had a positive pregnancy test, what the government knows about how they believe the girls got pregnant, how they believe this individual girl got pregnant and whether this girl has requested an abortion and then the last column, the last column is of course what the federal government is doing about it. And this record was being kept for the express purpose of subverting any of these girls ability to get an abortion. This was a spreadsheet designed to facilitate action to block these girls for getting an abortion they might want, given the circumstances described in these cold, hard spreadsheet cells. When you look through this 28-page document. Its full of teenagers and some cases girls who arent teenagers who report being raped and being pregnant as a result. And heres Scott Lloyd, compiling this information about these girls and using it so he can intervene as a government official to block each of these girls from getting the abortion they asked for. All along he was tracking how far along each girl he was, how long he could delay it, how much longer he had to keep blocking her from leaving the shelter until she would be forced to give birth, thanks to the U.S. Federal government. So this document has never been seen before. This is not the sort of thing were used to seeing, this the not the sort of thing we expect our government to be keeping tabs on in the modern era. Video clips: Rachel Maddow exposes Trump appointee Scott Lloyd and his real-life handmaid's tale. https://t.co/dCo1ywLl3s pic.twitter.com/kjfbEDIOFe PoliticusUSA (@politicususa) March 16, 2019 #Maddow has the document busting the Trump administration's Scott Lloyd for tracking the pregnancies of teenage girls to prevent rape victims from getting an abortion. pic.twitter.com/3jksA5TVRu Sarah Reese Jones (@PoliticusSarah) March 16, 2019 Trump has created a real Handmaids Tale For those refugee girls who came to the United States seeking asylum after being raped, what they got was an anti-choice zealot who tried to violate their rights, and take away their constitutionally protected right to choose because of his beliefs. These are the abuses of power that Trump doesnt tweet about. These are the events that are happening in this administration every single day. Next year when the mainstream press, the Russian operatives, and conservative media try to discourage you by claiming that the Democratic nominee and Donald Trump are alike, ask yourself if that opponent would ever track a childs pregnancy on a spreadsheet so that could be denied their rights and be forced to give birth to a child conceived through rape? The answer to that question will be no, and it should make clear that the 2020 election is about saving our country from a threat the likes of which it has never seen before. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 2.3k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Trump condemned the terrorist attack against Muslims in New Zealand while using the same language that the White supremacist terrorist used while issuing his first veto. After condemning the white supremacist terror attack on Muslims in New Zealand, Trump said, I have to in particular thank the Republican strong wonderful people, are the Republican senators that were on our side and on the side of border security, and on the side of doing what they have to, to keep our nation safe. They were very courageous yesterday and appreciate that very much. Congress vote to deny the crisis on the southern border is a vote against reality, its against reality. It is a tremendous national emergency. It is a tremendous crisis. Last month more than 76,000 illegal migrants arrived at our border. Were on track for a million illegal aliens to rush our borders. People hate the word invasion but thats what it is. Its an invasion of drugs and criminals and people, we have no idea of who they are but we capture them because border security is so good. But theyre put in a very bad position. And were bursting at the seams. Less than two minutes after condemning the terrorist attack in New Zealand, Trump was back to his same racially divisive tactics and appeals to white supremacists. Video: After condemning the New Zealand terror attack, Trump lasted two minutes before he started using the same language to describe immigrants that the terrorist used to describe the Muslims that he murdered. https://t.co/viNeaBIcne pic.twitter.com/yKQbvmck8Y Sarah Reese Jones (@PoliticusSarah) March 15, 2019 Trump used the same language about invaders that the white supremacist terrorist used: It was quickly noted that Trumps buzz words matched those of a terrorist: the christchurch shooter called muslims invaders https://t.co/VDsASPYTg8 David Mack (@davidmackau) March 15, 2019 Trump cant go a single day without appealing to racism. It is not lost on Trump and his supporters that moments after condemning the attack, Trump was using the same racist language to describe immigrants to the US. Donald Trump has never made his racism more clear. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 1.1k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard While trying to downplay the threat of white nationalism, Trump said that white nationalists are a small group of people that have very serious problems, which sums up the status of many Trump supporters. Here is the exchange that Trump had with a reporter: Q Do you see, today, white nationalism as a rising threat around the world? THE PRESIDENT: I dont really. I think its a small group of people that have very, very serious problems. I guess if you look at what happened in New Zealand, perhaps thats the case. I dont know enough about it yet. Theyre just learning about the person and the people involved. But its certainly a terrible thing. Terrible thing. Video: Trump's description of white nationalism sounds like a description of Trump supporters. https://t.co/GURmrvFsnF pic.twitter.com/YqgxGARkjw PoliticusUSA (@politicususa) March 16, 2019 A Small Group Of People That Have Very Serious Problems Trumps downplaying of white nationalism, which is a serious problem in its own right, sounds a lot like the way some would describe the people who support Donald Trump, not all of the people who voted for Trump, but those members of the Trump cult who gobble up every lie that he speaks while chugging a healthy dose of Fox News each day. The reason why Trump is constantly trying to create and maintain a state of fear is that studies have shown that conservatives are more sensitive to threats. Trump is manipulating his base to stick with them by keeping them afraid. The threat is why the wall fight is so important to Trump. The president doesnt want the threat to go away because it is the threat that will motivate his voters to vote for him in 2020. Trumps supporters are the minority of the country. Both the popular vote results in 2016 and his approval ratings reflect this reality, but when Trump downplayed white nationalists, who by the way are some of his most vocal supporters, he also provided America with the perfect description of his most loyal supporters. They are, a small group of people that have very, very serious problems. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 1.7k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Counterterrorism expert Malcolm Nance didnt hold back on Donald Trump on Saturday morning, telling MSNBCs Joy Reid that this president is stoking violence both at home and abroad. Can I rant for a second? Nance asked before emotionally tearing into Trump. The president is pushing this. The president is their champion, he said, referring to white nationalist terrorists like those who carried out the New Zealand massacre. He is stoking violence not just in the United States but around the world. Video: Nance said: Ive spent my entire life defending this nation. I spent my entire life in the Middle East working with our Arab and Muslim allies to keep what they call the invaders out of here. We have done that successfully. But weve turned a complete and blind eye to the Americans in our own midst who are terrorists, to Americans who would betray our own constitution on the basis of tribalism. The president is pushing this. The president is their champion. And you know what, to be quite honest, he needs the sierra tango foxtrot uniform. And if he doesnt understand what that means, he needs to turn to the right, ask his defense attache or the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff. He is stoking violence not just in United States but around the world. He is a leader. Act like it. E Pluribus Unum. For many one is what we are. And that does not mean that one tribe is over another tribe. The people in the counterterrorism community, every intelligence watch officer watching right now cannot do their work so long as the president of the United States keeps talking about them like they are foreign invaders who are taking something away from us. All immigrants to this country give us something. Ask Alexander Hamilton, George Washington and all the rest of the people who came from some other place and created this nation. Donald Trump is making the world less safe As Donald Trump continues to demonize immigrants and minorities, it is those same groups that appear to be most victimized by terrorism. Not only did we see it play out so gruesomely in New Zealand this week, but hate crimes against Muslims n the U.S. and all around the world continue to rise in the Trump era. This completely contradicts the worldview of Trump and his supporters that white America is under attack and must be preserved and protected. There is mounting evidence that the opposite is true. As Malcolm Nance said on Saturday, the deadly cocktail of Trumps abhorrent anti-Muslim rhetoric combined with his loud racist dog whistles and winks toward white supremacists is having dangerous consequences, not just in the United States but around the globe. Follow Sean Colarossi on Facebook and Twitter 983 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard There has already been a lot of excitement surrounding the Democratic field of candidates as it continues to grow and each of them hits the campaign trail. Right now, there are 17 Democrats whove thrown their hats into the ring, and former Vice President Joe Biden, the polling frontrunner, looks ready to do the same. Yet, despite a great field of candidates each of whom would make a more competent, effective and decent president than the one we currently have the media and even some liberal purists look poised to let Donald Trump win a second term. The biggest priority should be retaking the White House We all remember the endless coverage of Hillary Clintons emails during the 2016 campaign all while Trump slimed his way to the White House but were seeing that this style of news coverage isnt specific to Clinton. While Trump continues to do his damage both at home and abroad, the media and hardcore progressives think the top priority again is to gin up phony controversies about each of the Democratic candidates. PoliticusUSA contributor Robert Franek laid out some of the silly things the media has already been fixated on: Unfortunately, Im not too optimistic about the media asking any of the right questions in the coming year. Does Beto have enough experience? Is Amy a good boss? Does Kirsten know how to eat fried chicken? Kamala was a prosecutor, oh my! And on on it goes. https://t.co/Vg7yFVN3Ka Robert Franek (@robertfranek) March 16, 2019 None of this is to say that we shouldnt hold our potential presidents accountable and make sure they have what it takes to be the commander-in-chief. But there is a difference between basic human flaws and a campaign-ending scandal. Ginning up phony controversy about each of their shortcomings for the sake of balanced coverage isnt doing the country any favors, especially when none of the so-called red flags about the Democratic candidates even comes close to matching those of the terrible president and human being that currently occupies the Oval Office. The more the both-sides media focuses on Beto ORourkes harmless comments about his wife, or Amy Klobouchars tough management style, or the fact that Kamala Harris was a big bad prosecutor (and so on), the less we are focusing on the damage this president does every single day and the issues that matter to voters. We cannot allow a repeat of 2016 We saw some of this play out in 2016 after Hillary Clinton beat Bernie Sanders and secured the Democratic nomination even though Clinton adopted many of Sanders policies and Sanders himself campaigned for her. Not only did many of the Vermont senators supporters spend the remainder of the campaign attacking Clinton or saying theres no difference between her and Trump a suggestion that looks more ludicrous every day we have to live through this national nightmare but many of them even voted for Trump. According to NPR, 10 percent of Sanders supporters crossed over to support a man whose policy proposals and worldview was completely antithetical to the Clinton-Sanders platform. One would hope that a lesson was learned after the 2016 campaign, but Im so far not convinced thats the case. The country cannot afford another four years of Trump Yes, holding each of these candidates accountable is important. But throwing them through the meat grinder for the sake of both-sides coverage, or because they only agree with you on 90-95 percent of the issues, is irresponsible. Its why the country is in this perilous position to begin with. While the media is in search of a campaign-ending scandal and liberal purists look for small blemishes to magnify, Donald Trump continues to say and do about 10 incendiary, offensive, embarrassing or corrupt things per day. If we continue on this path, a repeat of 2016 is more likely. This country cannot afford that. Follow Sean Colarossi on Facebook and Twitter 525 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard The signs are mounting that special counsel Robert Mueller may soon be issuing a report with the findings from his investigation which has been going on nearly two years. The past week was a very eventful one for Mueller and his team of investigators, and there were several clues that their work may soon conclude with a final report to the Justice Department (DOJ). Manafort Sentencing Last Wednesday federal judge Amy Berman Jackson gave a second prison sentence to Paul Manafort, making his sentences now total over seven years. This ended Muellers prosecution of the former Trump campaign chairman who will be in prison until 2024 unless Donald Trump pardons him or commutes his sentence. There were also other clues this week that suggest Muellers probe is reaching some type of conclusion. On Tuesday, Mueller indicated that he has all the information he needs from former national security adviser Michael Flynn. The former general has been cooperating with Muellers team since he pleaded guilty in December 2017 to lying to the FBI. Key Mueller Team Members Are Leaving In addition, two key members of Muellers team announced they are leaving. The FBI said a week ago that its top agent on the special counsels team has been reassigned to a different job. And a Mueller spokesman on Thursday issued a statement confirming that the offices top prosecutor, Andrew Weissmann, would leave soon also. The signs I see are all pointing towards an investigation that is wrapping up, said Patrick Cotter, a former federal prosecutor who has worked with Weissmann on organized crime cases. He then added: We are probably a few weeks or even a month or more away from the issuing of a final report, but certainly a fairly complete draft is already being circulated inside the Mueller team. Cotter said, however, hed be surprised if Weissmann would actually leave without reviewing the complete findings of the special counsels probe. Still, Weissmanns departure would probably be a sign that the report is nearly complete. According to Cotter: His knowledge, experience and skills are too great for Mueller not to use him as a leading author of such a report. And I do not believe he would leave if he thought major new veins of information and significant charges were still to come. Congress Is Getting Ready for the Release of Muellers Report Congress appears to be getting ready for the big moment when Mueller releases his final report. In a big win for Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, the House last week in a unanimous 420-0 vote directed Attorney General William Barr to release in full the special counsels final report after he receives it from the special counsel. Prosecutions Will Likely Continue For Months Even if the special counsel investigation is nearly complete, and even if he has already obtained sealed indictments against other people, the prosecutions of the criminal cases will likely continue for many more months. For example, a judge has set the opening date in the trial of former Trump political adviser Roger Stone for November 5. He is being tried on charges that he lied to Congress about efforts to contact Wikileaks during the 2016 campaign. While Mueller and his Justice Department supervisors arent saying anything official about the conclusion of the special counsels work, the signs show that a big change is coming. Former Trump campaign deputy chairman Rick Gates is still cooperating with federal prosecutors in several ongoing investigations and isnt ready to be sentenced yet, according to a one-page joint status report filed in federal court in D.C.. But they said he will be ready within 60 days. This may be the strongest evidence yet of a specific time frame for the Mueller investigation to end. The filing suggests Gates is helping federal prosecutors in New York who are investigating Trumps inauguration committee. The Mueller investigation has had a narrow scope: to look into how Russia influenced the 2016 presidential election. If it shuts down, there are other prosecutors who will continue separate investigations into other crimes the special counsel uncovered. These include the U.S. attorneys office in the Southern District of New York, the New York Attorney Generals office, and the District Attorney of Manhattan. This means that when the Mueller probe ends, the prosecutions of Donald Trump and his children may be just beginning. 2.4k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Democratic congressman Ted Lieu of California dropped a fact check on Donald Trump on Saturday, reminding him that white supremacy is a growing threat, despite the presidents false assertion that its no big deal. In the last three years of Barack Obamas presidency, hate groups declined, the Democratic lawmaker said. Now we have a 30 percent increase in hate groups and white supremacy groups that correspond with Donald Trumps presidency. Video: Lieu said: It is disappointing that Donald Trump once again is trying to downplay the threat of white nationalism and white supremacy. We saw this happen during Charlottesville when he said there were fine people on both sides of the white supremacy march. We also know its factually incorrect. According to the Southern Poverty Law Center, in the last three years of Barack Obamas presidency, hate groups declined. Now we have a 30 percent increase in hate groups and white supremacy groups that correspond with Donald Trumps presidency. Its unfortunate hes refusing to acknowledge the reality. The presidents rhetoric matters It should be no surprise that hate groups and white supremacy organizations are on the rise again with Donald Trump in the Oval Office. After all, Trumps entire political brand has been built on white anger and minority resentment. It fueled his candidacy and continues to motivate his supporters. As Malcolm Nance said on Saturday, Trump has become a champion of these groups. Under Barack Obama, the opposite was true. The 44th president spoke out loudly and unequivocally against this type of hatred and said it has no place in the United States of America. He urged the country to embraces its diversity. It is no surprise then that, as Ted Lieu pointed out, hate groups were on the decline as Obama was leaving office, and they are on the rise again under Trump. Rhetoric matters. Not only is Donald Trump wrong that white supremacy isnt a growing threat in the United States and around the world, but he is a large reason why. Follow Sean Colarossi on Facebook and Twitter 1.8k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Milo Yiannopoulos has a history of outrageous behavior in promoting his beliefs in white supremacism. His anti-Muslim biases have been made clear many times over the years. And now they have gotten him banned from ever entering the country of Australia. After yesterdays New Zealand mosque murders, ABC Australia reported that Yiannopoulos has been prohibited from entering the country after making inflammatory comments on social media. Australian Immigration Minister David Coleman issued a public statement announcing that Yiannopouloss comments regarding the massacre are appalling and foment hatred and division. The terrorist attack in Christchurch was carried out on Muslims peacefully practicing their religion, Coleman said, according to the outlet. Australia stands with New Zealand and with Muslim communities the world over in condemning this inhuman act. The ban on the right-wing provocateur comes after an admitted white supremacist killed 49 Muslims while they were praying in their mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand yesterday. Over 40 additional people were injured in the attacks. A short time after reports of the murders appeared on the internet, Yiannopoulos went on Facebook and proclaimed that Islam is a barbaric, alien religious culture. Yiannopoulos later complained about Australias actions, writing: Im banned from Australia, again, after a statement in which I said I abhor political violence. Yiannopoulos, is a former editor of the right-wing anti-Muslim website Breitbart, which was formerly run by Donald Trump adviser Steve Bannon. After the New Zealand shooting, U.S. President Donald Trump tweeted a link to the Breitbart website. The suspect in the shooting also said he had been inspired by Trumps racist anti-Muslim rhetoric. The racist commentator had planned a speaking tour of the country, ABC Australia noted. His previous stops in December 2017 cost the Victoria Police $50,000 to cover security at a Melbourne event during which 500-left-wing protesters clashed with 50 right-wing activists. Yiannopoulos had planned to come roaring back in 2019, his publicity outlet noted. The controversial figure resigned from Breitbart in 2017 following uproar over comments he made in which he appeared to endorse having sex with young boys. PayPal suspended Yiannopoulos last year after he sent $14.88 to a Jewish journalist. The number has been used by white supremacists because 14 represents the mantra of securing a future for white children and 88 represents Heil Hitler. I am one of the most censored and most lied-about people in the world, Yiannopoulos has said. Australian Labor MP Tony Burke praised the decision to ban Yiannopoulos on Twitter. Milo banned. Good. His overnight comments werent that different from how he has always behaved, the politician wrote. There was already enough evidence to ban him which is why the department had already recommended he be banned. The Australian tours for the worlds hate speakers must stop. To dye or not to dye? Where you will and won't find green beer for St. Patrick's Day 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. Adam Parker has covered many beats and topics for The Post and Courier, including race and history, religion, and the arts. He is the author of "Outside Agitator: The Civil Rights Struggle of Cleveland Sellers Jr.," published by Hub City Press. Jerrel Floyd is an Alabama raised reporter who covers Summerville and Dorchester County for The Post and Courier. Gregory Yee covers the city of Charleston. He's a native Angeleno and previously covered crime and courts for the Press-Telegram in Long Beach, CA. He studied journalism and Spanish literature at the University of California, Irvine. Paul Bowers is an education reporter and father of three living in North Charleston. He previously worked at the Charleston City Paper, where he was twice named South Carolina Journalist of the Year in the weekly category. 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. Political Editor Schuyler Kropf is The Post and Courier political editor. He has covered every major political race in South Carolina dating to 1988, including for U.S. Senate, governorship, the Statehouse and Republican and Democratic presidential primaries. Make plans now if you wish to attend a week-long retreat, "Seek First the Realm of God," June 16-22 at Assisi Heights in Rochester. Seeking to identify some of the major building-blocks of our religious lives, we will look at our call to ongoing conversion; ask whether we are growing in age and wisdom; and identify the essence of spirituality. And we will ask: "What is this Jesus asks us to do in his memory?"; and "Are we people of hope?" These and other topics will be shared during the week. Father Anthony Gittins, CSSp, taught theology and anthropology at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago from 1984 until 2011. He has authored many books on theological topics, mission, and spirituality. He worked for thirty years with and among homeless women on the streets of Chicago and in a shelter and for seven years was part of Genesis House a community where women struggle to escape from prostitution. The retreat begins the evening of Sunday, June 16, and runs until noon Saturday, June 22. To register online, go to www.rochesterfranciscan.organd select June 16 on the Events calendar. Registrations are due by April 22. Assisi Heights is at 1001 14th St. NW. South Troy church hosts blood drive ZUMBRO FALLS South Troy Wesleyan Church will host a community blood drive with the American Red Cross, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. March 28 at the church, 56817 U.S. Highway 63, Zumbro Falls. For more information or to make an appointment to donate, call 507-259-1442, or sign up online at redcrossblood.org. "South Troy Church is committed to strengthening our community and helping meet hospital and patient needs through blood donations," said Pastor Colleen Hoeft. "This blood drive is our way of giving staff, colleagues and neighbors an opportunity to help save lives." Blood is a perishable product that can only come from volunteer blood donors. With someone in the U.S. needing blood every two seconds, blood products must be constantly replenished, according to the Red Cross. "We urge community members to donate blood and help ensure that patients in local hospitals have a supply of blood ready and waiting before an emergency occurs. Theres no better feeling than knowing that your blood donation may give someone a second chance at life." According to the Red Cross, donors with all blood types are needed, especially those with types O negative, A negative and B negative. Join labyrinth walk at Calvary church Calvary Sacred Circle will host an indoor open labyrinth walk from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday in Crawford Hall at Calvary Episcopal Church in Rochester. The labyrinth is an ancient symbol and purposeful path representing a journey to our own center and back into the world. The labyrinth walk will be facilitated by parishioner Elise Lewis (trained facilitator) who will be available for guidance and questions. Instrumental accompaniment will be provided by local musician Francis Gurtz. There will be time for journaling, contemplative prayer or meditation. This event is appropriate for teens and adults and a free-will donation will be accepted. Please plan to arrive by 7 p.m. to ensure time for your walk. No registration is necessary and all are welcome. Please use the west entrance of the church on Fourth Avenue Southwest to enter the building. Calvary Church is at 111 Third Ave. SW. For more information, please contact the church office at 507-282-9429 or email Elise at hollymaedesigns@icloud.com. Learn how generational cycles affect spirituality You may be familiar with the current generations: Boomers, GenXers, and Millennials. Most are not familiar with the understanding that their alignment enables us to explain current events in our culture and to predict what will come next for society. Learn more about it at an upcoming class, "Generational Cycles and their Influence on Cultural and Personal Spirituality," 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursday at Assisi Heights in Rochester. The Generational Futures presentation is a fascinating research project done in the 1980s. It advanced an eye-opening exposition of generational cycles. Four generational archetypes were identified, and found to create a repeating 80-year cycle, which exposes a consistent pattern of cultural changes, observed all the way back to the time of the Pilgrims. Admission to the class is $10 preregistered/prepaid, and $15 at the door. Register online, tinyurl.com/yywb4gsl, or call 507-280-2195. Assisi Heights is at 1001 14th St. NW. Join Taize Prayer service at Assisi Taize Prayer is a repetitive prayer set to simple music, interspersed with meditation. Meditation is a form of contemplative prayer in which we move beyond words, thoughts and images, opening us to Gods mysterious silence within us. There is no teaching, or preaching. It is short chants repeated over and over in the dark. As Swiss Brother John says, "It is a time to rest in God and let the words listened to and sung penetrate ones being." Join in Taize Prayer at 6:30 p.m. March 24 at Assisi Heights in Rochester. Admission is free; donations appreciated. Learn more and register online, tinyurl.com/yxc7f2zr. Find out how Luther changed world history A discussion of the book "Martin Luther: Renegade and Prophet" is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. March 26 at Assisi Heights in Rochester. Lynda Ropers book is a magnificent study of one of historys most compelling and decisive figures. In 1517, Martin Luther nailed 95 Theses on the church door thus beginning his "public life." Researched for more than 10 years, Ms. Ropers book sketches Luther as a complicated founding father of Protestant Reformation. This biography offers a fresh and deeply revealing study of the man who somewhat reluctantly divided a continent. His intellectual assault on Catholicity transformed Christianity and changed world history. Join us for a fascinating discussion. Admission is $14 preregistered/prepaid. Includes lunch. Registration required by March 19. Learn more and register online, tinyurl.com/yxwl6rtu, or call 507-280-2195. Assisi Heights is at 1001 14th St. NW. INSIGHTS Why is it that we Americans seem to need a war to be happy? Its not that we start the wars exactly, but we embrace them with a strange fervor Read more Today concludes Sunshine Week, an annual observance of the American Society of News Editors and Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press. The week of March 16 is designated each year to honor the anniversary of James Madisons birthday with a reminder to citizens of the importance of the free flow of information protected by Madison in his writing of the constitutions Bill of Rights. Sunshine Week promotes freedom of information and transparency in government, two of the standards insured by watchdog journalism, reporting that holds officials accountable the very type of reporting that is in danger of being lost in local communities. Watchdog journalism, or investigative reporting, has brought to light campaign finance abuse by school board members, overprescribing by doctors of pain killers in the opioid crisis, waste of taxpayer dollars on projects that bypassed competitive bidding, bribes to officials in state government, and in recent weeks, revelations of covering up physical abuse at the Glen Mills Schools reform institution in Delaware County. Watchdog journalism has a preventive role, too. When reporters are present at school board and council meetings, asking questions about bids, perusing budget documents and challenging executive sessions called behind close doors, officials understand their actions are being observed and reported. It keeps them honest. As newspapers shrink and close, that presence at public meetings is becoming scarce. An Associated Press report this week cited data compiled by the University of North Carolina that showed more than 1,400 cities in the U.S. have lost a newspaper over the past 15 years. Many of those are in rural and lower-income areas, often with an aging population. Strong newspapers have been good for democracy, and both educators and informers of a citizenry and its governing officials. They have been problem-solvers, said Penelope Muse Abernathy, a University of North Carolina professor who studies news industry trends and oversaw the news desert report released last fall, the AP report stated. That is what you are missing when you dont have someone covering you and bringing transparency or sunlight onto government decisions and giving people a say in how those government decisions are made. A recent study published in the Journal of Communication and cited in a recent MediaNews Group editorial reported that as citizens have fewer opportunities to read news coverage of local politicians and government officials theyre more likely to turn to sources such as social media or cable TV news for information. As people turn to these increasingly polarized sources, they often apply these opinions to local city council candidates and state legislators, according to the research. This carries over to fewer voters casting ballots for candidates of different parties. In 1992, 37 percent of states with Senate races elected a senator from a different party than the presidential candidate favored in the state. In 2016, for the first time in a century, no state did that, the study found. In another study, researchers from the University of Illinois at Chicago and the University of Notre Dame found that municipal borrowing costs increase after a newspaper ceases publication. The demise of a paper leaves readers in the dark and emboldens elected officials to sign off on higher wages, larger payrolls and ballooning budget deficits, AP reported. Stanford Universitys James Hamilton in his book Democracys Detective, examined case studies of newspaper investigations and found that each dollar spent by a news organization generated hundreds of dollars in benefits to society. When investigative scrutiny declines, stories go untold, which means waste, fraud, and abuse will be less likely to be discovered, said Hamilton, director of the Stanford Journalism Program. The presence and ability of journalists to seek out information is critical to that open flow of information. Without it, were in the dark. Sunshine Week is journalists campaign to remind elected officials, citizens and news consumers of this importance. Our democracy depends on it. Gail Collins is a left-wing feminist columnist for the New York Times. If this snarky piece about Beto ORourke is any indication, Collins wants the Democrats to nominate a female presidential candidate in 2020. Dont get me wrong. ORourke is a deserving target of snark. Indeed, the snark virtually writes itself. But why is ORourke a less serious candidate for president than, say, Kamala Harris? He served in Congress longer than Harris has. In fact, he served in Congress longer than Barack Obama did. ORourkes unsuccessful (by a fairly narrow margin) campaign for the Senate in Texas is probably more impressive than Harris successful one in California. Texas hasnt elected a Democratic Senator since 1988. California hasnt elected a Republican to the Senate since that same year. Yet Collins writes as if ORourke is an interloper in the presidential race. Here are some excerpts: ORourke is different from the dozen or so people who announced before him mainly in the way hes been treated like a Second Coming. The nation waited while he wandered around the countryside, waiting to hear a special call. When it came and he made the inevitable announcement, he got a cover profile in Vanity Fair, in which he confided, Im just born to do this. Oprah has done everything but turn over her fortune to him. Has ORourke received more fanfare and fawning than Kamala Harris has? I dont think so, and Collins fails to show that he has. Do you think hes special? ORourkes face, when hes at rest and not acting kind of goofy, does look a little like Bobby Kennedy. Sure, you can say Bobby Kennedy would never have sent out a video of himself getting his teeth cleaned. But how do you really know? Bobby Kennedy never had Instagram. Good snark, that. But ORourkes teeth-cleaning video wasnt much more flaky than Elizabeth Warrens beer grab. Has Collins ridiculed Warren for that, or does she think the ridicule of Warren was sexist? On Thursday ORourke sent out another video the big one, where hes sitting with his wife, and announcing: Amy and I are happy to share with you that Im running to serve you as the next president of the United States of America. People noted that Amy didnt say anything just sat there smiling and, as Astead Herndon noted in The Times, periodically grasping his hand. This last part is possibly not as strange as it sounds, since ORourke does have a tendency to throw his arms around when he talks. You didnt want to see the poor woman get knocked off the couch. Would Harris mock a female left-wing candidate for hand gestures? I dont think so. Then it was off to Keokuk, Iowa, to introduce himself to the First State to Vote. He told everybody that Amy was staying home with the kids. They have three Ulysses, 12, Molly, 10 and Henry, 8. Ulysses got his name because his dad really loves the Odyssey. Id respect Beto more if the boy were named after President Grant. At last, Collins gets to what, for her, is heart of the matter: Why do you think hes getting so much attention? Certainly none of the announced women candidates are creating this much stir. Elizabeth Warren has been shoving out policy positions. Kamala Harris has been campaigning like crazy. Warren, Harris, Kirsten Gillibrand and Amy Klobuchar are all acting senators. ORourke is a former member of the House of Representatives who lost a race to Ted Cruz, one of the least appealing human beings on the face of the earth. But theres just something about Beto that makes him stand apart. Hate to think its being a cute white guy who can skateboard. Id hate to think Obama stood apart because he was a cute black guy who could hoop. Democrats are the party of resentment (a hard-earned status considering how much resentment there is on the GOP side). Black Democrats resent whites; female Democrats resent men. Democrats who arent making it resent people who are; Democrats who have made it look down on people who havent. This works well for the party when the target is white male Republicans. But in the ungodly scramble that will be the Democratic nominating process, these resentments seem destined to be turned inward, in the form of Democrat-on-Democrat political violence. Collins mocking of ORourke is a preview of coming attractions, and probably a tame one. Yesterday, Chelsea Clinton attended a vigil at NYU for those killed in the massacre at a mosque in New Zealand. NYU turned out not to be a safe space for Ms. Clinton, who is pregnant. Muslim students berated Clinton, blaming her for the killings. Their theory? They cited a statement she made condemning anti-Semitic remarks following the utterance of such remarks by Rep. Ilhan Omar. In response to someone elses tweet to this effect, Clinton wrote: Co-signed as an American. We should expect all elected officials, regardless of party, and all public figures to not traffic in anti-Semitism. This didnt sit well with the NYU Muslims. One of them, Leen Dweik, informed Clinton: This right here is the result of a massacre stoked by people like you and the words that you put out into the world. And I want you to know that and I want you to feel that deeply 49 people died because of the rhetoric you put out there. (Emphasis added) Clinton replied, Im so sorry you feel that way. This was a reasonable and polite response given that Dweik had made no argument, but merely expressed her deep feelings. It didnt satisfy the mob, though. Someone shouted, What does Im sorry you feel that way mean? someone shouted. I hope it meant, Im sorry your feelings are so ridiculous. After this encounter went viral, Dweik and one of her friends tried to explain why they hold the insane view that Clintons rhetoric is responsible for the New Zealand massacre. They told the Washington Post they objected to Clinton prefacing her condemnation of anti-Semitism with the words co-signed as an American. They claim that Clinton was saying shes more American than Rep. Omar. The inference is idiotic. Im guessing that Dweik has never sprinkled a course in logic among the various victim studies classes she probably takes at NYU. But even if it were somehow inappropriate for Clinton to have written co-signed as an American, how does Dweik infer from those words that 40 people died because of the rhetoric [Chelsea] put out there? Whats the causal link? Dweik didnt tell the Post and the Posts Colby Itkowitz apparently didnt ask. Maybe she didnt want to be berated. Theres talk about a cold civil war in America. Incidents like the one at NYU make me wonder about the possibility of a cold civil war between liberals and leftists. Neera Tanden, president of the Center for American Progress and a longtime Clinton ally, recognizes the danger. After Donald Trump Jr. tweeted in support of Chelsea, Tanden wrote: The right wants to exploit disputes in the Center-Left. I know people are upset by the video but I urge all to move on. People were murdered by white nationalist hate. Spend your time fighting that instead of each other. I suspect Tandens advice will prevail now and going forward. Left-liberals are unwilling to purge anti-Semites and other such elements from their movement the way William F. Buckley did with the conservative movement more than 60 years ago. Their reluctance is an outgrowth of identity politics. The purveyors of anti-Semitism possess favored identities. Its also an outgrowth, of course, of ambivalence (or worse) towards anti-Semitism by many on the left. But its the identity politics, I think, that keeps those who arent the least bit anti-Semitic from taking on even the most egregious anti-Semites in their ranks. We havent written anything about the Christchurch, New Zealand, massacre. There probably isnt much to say. Nevertheless, a few observations. 1) Liberals wasted no time trying to make political hay out of the slaughter. The deplorable Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez tied the murders to President Trump. It is noteworthy that liberals attribute almost superhuman powers to Donald Trump, attributing responsibility to him for pretty much anything that goes on in the world. The only phenomena for which the Left does not assign responsibility to the president are the intended, beneficent results of his own policies. 2) Brenton Tarrant published a typical mass murderers manifesto in which he described himself as an eco-fascist, expressed hatred for conservatism and said that Communist China is his ideal country. Tarrant is an environmentalist who bought the global warming hype hook, line and sinker. His closest analogy is perhaps the Unabomber. Why focus on immigration and birth rates when climate change is such a huge issue? Because they are the same issue, the environment is being destroyed by over population, we Europeans are one of the groups that are not over populating the world. The invaders are the ones over populating the world. Kill the invaders, kill the overpopulation and by so doing save the environment. But poring over the ravings of lunatics to find ideological meaning is basically useless, like examining the entrails of a chicken in search of omens. 3) From a policy standpoint, the only lesson that can be drawn from the Christchurch massacre is reflected in the difference in the casualty totals between the two attacks. Forty-one were killed at the Dean Ave. mosque, the first one that was targeted, where the murderer had plenty of time and at one point returned to his vehicle to reload. There were only seven killed at the Linwood mosque because one of the worshippers was armed: A second shooting happened at a mosque in the Linwood area of the city. One Friday prayer goer returned fire with a rifle or shotgun. Witnesses said they heard multiple gunshots around 1.45 pm. A well known Muslim local chased the shooters and fired two shots at them as they sped off. He was heard telling police officers he was firing in self defence. Early reports of catastrophic events like these always turn out to be wrong in some respects, but it does appear that armed self-defense was the key to the less tragic outcome at Linwood. Murder is the result of human evil and will never be eradicated in this world, but if more people arm themselves, there will be fewer mass murder events. In addition to the partial transcript of Christopher Steeles deposition, the deposition of former John McCain aide David Kramer was also unsealed in the now dismissed Gubarev lawsuit on Thursday. I have embedded the transcript below via Chuck Rosss Daily Caller article. Kramer was instrumental to the dissemination of the Steele Dossier to the Washington media (including BuzzFeed) and State Department officials. McCain had been briefed on the dossier in London. McCain had Kramer follow up. My friend closely following these matters along with me observes: One thing that jumps out at me about the Kramer deposition: He claims that with the copy of the dossier Steele showed him was a slip of paper that had the names of the sources five of them I believe. What kind of spycraft is that to share your top-secret source names with someone youve never met? Whats to say Kramer wouldnt be indiscreet and get the sources killed! Steele may well have shown a piece of paper with big-time Russian names on it, but theres no reason to think Steele wasnt playing him. Among the media outlets to whom Kramer gave the dossier was Peter Stone/McClatchy News. Simpson has found Stone and McClatchy to be useful tools in his toolbox. This whole operation was orchestrated by Glenn Simpson. This is what he does. Its Glenn Simpsons world. Were just living in it. Kramer Depositioin by on Scribd PR-Inside.com: 2019-03-16 17:31:20 Press Information Rare Nest Gallery 3433 North Kedvale Av Keith Bringe 7086168671 email http://www.rarenestgallery.com Published by Keith Bringe 7086168671 e-mail https://www.rarenestgallery.com/ # 564 Words 3433 North Kedvale Av7086168671Keith Bringe7086168671 Chicago, IL, ILLUSTRATED LOVERS DISCOURSE Exhibit at Rare Nest Gallery ChicagoMarch 30 May 11, 2019Roland Barthess Fragments dun discours amoureux was published in Paris in 1977 and was translated in an English edition in 1978. The book comprises 80 chapters or fragments which explore common concepts in the language of love. In this important semiotic, linguistic analysis, Barthes draws upon references from the worlds of literature, music, painting and philosophy. The author cites Plato, Balzac, Goethe, Racine, Nietzsche, Brecht and more, forming a lexicon of the romantic experience.In the spring of 2009, Chicago-based artist Keith Bringe began a project that would interpret A Lovers Discourse through 80 constructions one for each chapter. Each fragment is contained within a vintage French wine crate that forms an environment for an assemblage of drawings, paintings, found objects, photographs and more. Labeled with chapter headings in French and English, the individual fragments form a text of their own through configurations ranging from towers to wall-hung series. The collection is meant to be tailored to the environment in which it is seen.About the ExhibitionAn Illustrated Lovers Discourse will be complemented by a series of programs included a multi-channel sound installation by Chicago artist Ed Herrmann as well as lectures, readings and special lighting systems.About the Author: Roland BarthesRoland Barthes was born on November 12, 1915 in Normandy. When he was nine his mother moved to Paris. Barthes attended the Sorbonne University earning a degree in classical letters. He suffered from tuberculosis that often had to be treated in the isolation of sanatoria. Repeated physical breakdowns kept him out of military service during World War II. He traveled a great deal for teaching positions in France, Romania and Egypt. By the late 1960s Barthes had established an international reputation in linguistics. In 1977 he was elected to a position as chair of Semiologie Litteraire at the College de France. On February 25th 1980 Barthes was struck by a laundry truck while walking home. He died on the March 25th. He left behind 15 major works of criticism and numerous significant essays, interviews and lectures.About the Artist: Keith BringeBorn in Chicago in 1963, Bringe grew up in the working-class neighborhoods of the citys far south side. He studied art history at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign while working in a museum and a serigraphy studio. In 1983 he started a career in non-profits while simultaneously participating in and organizing art exhibitions. He has worked primarily in the areas of family violence, historic preservation and the arts. Keith served as Executive Director of Frank Lloyd Wrights Unity Temple Restoration Foundation from 2002 - 2006. From 2006 2016 Bringe led the first-ever survey of art deco period s buildings, monuments and structures in Chicago. The Survey formed the basis of the major new book Art Deco Chicago (Yale University Press, 2019). He is the founder and director of Rare Nest Gallery in Chicago.About Rare Nest GalleryRare Nest Gallery opened in the Fall of 2017 with the major exhibition: Nicolas Carone Centennial and has since presented twelve exhibitions, over forty programs including world premier documentary films and has hosted more than 7,000 visitors. Rare Nest welcomes novice and seasoned collectors. Rare Nest represents ten established, living artists and two important estates (Otto Neumann / Herbert Brun).Contact:Keith Bringe, DirectorRare Nest Gallery3433 North Kedvale Chicago, IL 60641keith@ rarenestgallery.com 708-616-8671 This new report on the global IIoT platform market is dedicated to meeting customers' needs by providing a thorough insight into the market. The proprietary data provided in this report is collected by a team of research and industry experts. IIoT Platform PR-Inside.com: 2019-03-16 19:56:44 Press Information IT Intelligence Markets GA, USA Erika Thomas Sales Manager +1 (888) 312-3102 email https://www.itintelligencemarkets.com # 537 Words GA, USASales Manager+1 (888) 312-3102 The global IIoT market is expected to grow from $ 32.7 billion in 2018 to $ 138 billion in 2023 with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of +33% over the forecast period. Key growth drivers for the market include increased demand for predictive and preventive maintenance solutions, increased need for centralized monitoring, increased IT and OT integration and the adoption of next-generation technologies.Request report sample pages prior purchase@: https://www.itintelligencemarkets.com/request_sample.php?id=4856 Top key player profiled in this report: PTC, SAP, Hitachi, Accenture, IBM, Oracle, ATOS, Altizon, QIO Technologies, Flutura, Software AG, GE, Amazon, C3 IoT, Davra Networks, Cisco, Intel, AT&T, HPE, Zebra Technologies, Bosch, Microsoft, Eurotech, Siemens, Schneider Electric etc.The process industry is concerned with the processing of large volumes of resources into other products. The process industry consists of a variety of verticals such as energy and utilities, chemicals and materials, food and beverage, water and waste management and others (pharmaceuticals, mining and metals, pulp and paper). The IIoT platform optimizes operations and streamlines business processes by providing a variety of solutions such as asset management and business process optimization.Market, By Platform Type: Device management platform Application management platform Connectivity management platformDemand and use of various electronic devices around the world has increased tremendously over the past decade. Smartly designed, highly connected devices have increased the need for the IIoT Platform. Seamless connectivity and high-speed Internet demand are driving demand for the IIoT Platform market. In addition, you can view applications on the IIoT Platform in a variety of industries. Its commercial and industrial use has grown many times over the next few years, which is expected to benefit the market growth.Request report Discount on this Premium Report@: https://www.itintelligencemarkets.com/ask_for_discount.php?id=4856 As the use of the IIoT Platform becomes smoother, you can make better decisions, cut costs in the long run and address emergencies to drive market growth. It is also expected that the IIoT Platform will facilitate the integration of data storage, data communications and hardware design, creating opportunities in the global marketplace.Most businesses with dispersed assets in large geographical areas need to address a number of issues that impact operational efficiency, productivity, cost, people, and ultimately revenue. Due to the low cost sensor, the use of GPS-based location-based services, low connectivity and gateways, tracking devices, sensors and actuators are installed in more assets and are centrally connected to the IIoT platform.Asset tracking and management is useful for managing the physical assets and performance of equipment at the manufacturing site. Protecting physical assets such as factories, machinery and fleets is the backbone of manufacturing operations. The asset management industry application is very important because it provides a unified view of operations to all stakeholders and is critical to maintaining the efficiency of manufacturing companies.Enquiry Before Buying: https://www.itintelligencemarkets.com/enquiry_before_buying.php?id=4856 Table of Contents:Global IIoT Platform Market Research Report 2019-2026Chapter 1: IIoT Platform Market OverviewChapter 2: Global Economic Impact on IndustryChapter 3: IIoT Platform Market Competition by ManufacturersChapter 4: Global Production, Revenue (Value) by RegionChapter 5: Global Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by RegionsChapter 6: Global Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by Type.CONTINUED FOR TOC It offers the continual advancements in technologies which helps to understand the platform for the development of the businesses. Critical Infrastructure Security Market PR-Inside.com: 2019-03-16 19:54:52 Press Information IT Intelligence Markets Blairsville, GA, USA Erika Thomas Sales Manager +1 (888) 312-3102 email https://www.itintelligencemarkets.com # 319 Words Blairsville, GA, USASales Manager+1 (888) 312-3102 The world's major infrastructure protection (CIP) market reached $ 56 billion in 2017. We expect to register an annual CAGR of + 10% over the forecast period. Cyber security is one of the most important factors in the growth of digitization. Market growth is accelerating due to concerns about advanced threats such as economic and national disruption due to clean water, reduced population due to power and transportation.As the number of enemies infiltrating systems that control all areas of the core infrastructure grows, interest in many industries is increasing. In light of this, more and more investment is being made to encourage cyber security research and developmentGet Sample PDF Copy @ https://www.itintelligencemarkets.com/request_sample.php?id=5157 The Key Profile: Alliance Corporation, Cyber Group, EC, ECC, International Technologies, PHI, TrueVault, etcIt offers the continual advancements in technologies which helps to understand the platform for the development of the businesses. It offers numerous strategies for boosting the performance of the companies. Both primary and secondary research techniques carried out to find solutions to different issues faced by various stakeholders.Get Avail Discount on this report@ https://www.itintelligencemarkets.com/ask_for_discount.php?id=5157 Key Questions Answered in Report:1. What are factor which lead this market to next level?2. What will the market Demand and what will be Growth?3. What are the opportunities to Critical Infrastructure Security market in future?4. What are the strengths of the key players?5. What are the key of Critical Infrastructure Security market?It includes facts and figures about some significant financial terms such as Critical Infrastructure Security. Apart from this, it gives focus on restraining factors which helps to understand the risks and threat in front of the businesses. It studies various existing market approach and the prediction of future growth has been mentioned clearly.Finally, it directs its focus on the analysis of global competitors and potential growth opportunities for the Critical Infrastructure Security sector. PR-Inside.com: 2019-03-16 19:57:40 Press Information QYReports QYReports Name: Jones John Contact number :+(1) 786-292-8164 204, Professional Center, 7950 NW 53rd Street, Miami, Florida 33166 sales@qyreports.com www.qyreports.com Jones John Sales Manager +(1) 786-292-8164 email http://www.qyreports.com # 554 Words QYReportsName: Jones JohnContact number :+(1) 786-292-8164204, Professional Center,7950 NW 53rd Street, Miami, Florida 33166sales@qyreports.comwww.qyreports.comSales Manager+(1) 786-292-8164 This report gives an in-depth research about the overall state of Cloud System Management Software market and projects an overview of its growth market. It also gives the crucial elements of the market and across major global regions in detail. Number on primary and secondary research has been carried out in order to collect required data for completing this particular report. Sever industry based analytical techniques has been narrowed down for a better understanding of this market.This report studies the global Cloud System Management Software market, analyzes and researches the Cloud System Management Software development status and forecast in United States, EU, Japan, China, India and Southeast Asia.Get Sample Copy of this Report@: https://www.qyreports.com/request-sample?report-id=90745 Some of the Key Players of this Market includes:BMC Software, VMware, CA Technologies, Orcale, Cisco Systems, IBM Corp, Red Hat, Servicenow, Microsoft, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Adaptive Computing, Dell, HP, Redhat, and others.An analysis of technical data and manufacturing plants has been provided in the report, which includes a segment on the key suppliers of the global Cloud System Management Software market, their status on research and development, commercial production, technology sources, and capacity. Additionally, the report offers readers a detailed information on the major sources of raw material, cost structure of products, supply, downstream client survey, key distributors, policies, mergers, acquisitions, and other alliances. Further, it also provides information on marketing channels, industry development trends, environmental and regional regulations, revenue structure, distribution of manufacturing plants, product specification, import and export, proposals, consumers, business models, collaborations, upstream raw materials, and research requirements.Get Special Discount on this Premium Report@: https://www.qyreports.com/ask-for-discount?report-id=90745 The research report makes use of industry-centric tools for market analysis to gauge the scope of the competitive landscape of the global Cloud System Management Software market in current as well as future market scenarios. The competition in the global market is evaluated on the basis of key market player operating at both regional as well as global. The report also discusses the associations and business partnerships among the key players operating in the market.Besides recognizing the factors enabling growth in the global Cloud System Management Software market, the report also profiles some of the leading companies operating therein. The product portfolio of the companies profiled are studied in detail. Besides this, information is obtained from their financial reports and strategies they adopted over the last couple of years. The impact of these strategies in the overall market is gauged as well, for the purpose of the study.Market segment by Type, Cloud System Management Software can be split intoPublic System Management SoftwarePrivate System Management SoftwareHybrid System Management SoftwareMarket segment by Application, Cloud System Management Software can be split intoBFSIRetailIT & TelecomGovernment and UtilitiesOtherTable of ContentsCloud System Management Software Market Research ReportChapter 1 Cloud System Management Software Market OverviewChapter 2 Global Economic Impact on IndustryChapter 3 Global Market Competition by ManufacturersChapter 4 Global Production, Revenue (Value) by RegionChapter 5 Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by RegionsChapter 6 Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by TypeChapter 7 Market Analysis by ApplicationChapter 8 Manufacturing Cost AnalysisChapter 9 Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream BuyersChapter 10 Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/TradersFor More Information, Visit @: https://qyreports.com/enquiry-before-buying?report-id=90745 The Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) says over Asset Management Partners (AMPs), who are not able to recover debts from 6,000 accounts valued at over N740 billion may be disengaged. The managing director of the corporation, Ahmed Kuru, said AMPs that have the aggression and zeal to cope with the speed and enormous challenges associated with debt recovery may be assigned more accounts. We know the jobs we have assigned to you is not easy. Recovery is a difficult job. But even at that, a few of you (AMPs) have shown they cannot cope. We may have no choice than to disengage such partners. But those that have done well, we will upgrade and even assign more responsibilities to such partners. There is indeed need for speed in this assignment. We are convinced the AMP programme is key to the success of AMCON, and we will give you all the necessary support to make you succeed in this exercise, the AMCON boss said. Mr Kuru issued the threat at the 2019 AMCON/AMPs Interactive/Feedback Session in Abuja. AMPs are consortia appointed by AMCON with specialist skills to recover and resolve debt issues, and carry out banking, legal, valuation and accounting services. Mr Kuru said the AMPs were recruited in 2016 as part of the corporations renewed strategy to resolve and recover total debt portfolios of over 12,000 loans of various sizes from different sectors of the economy. He said these debts have lingered for many years after the corporation was established. Considering AMCONs limited staff strength, Mr Kuru said it became necessary for the corporation to adopt a strategic approach to improve coverage, recovery and results. He said the AMPs were appointed to handle over 6,000 accounts within the AMCON portfolio. The outsourced accounts to the AMPs, in terms of weight, constitute about 20% percent, or N740billion, of the total eligible bank assets (EBA) portfolio of N3.7 trillion. The AMPs main assignment was to help trace, identify and locate of obligors and their assets (pledged and unpledged), to resolve their outstanding indebtedness, enhance the EBA value, and achieve set recovery objectives. The AMPs were also empowered to be involved in negotiation of settlement & restructuring of terms with identified obligors in line with approved guidelines; pursue & enforce debt recovery and collection activities. Where necessary, they were mandated to initiate legal actions to further the loan recovery mandates in line with approved guidelines. With AMCON winding down its operations, Mr Kuru said more aggression is required with its recovery strategy. This, he said, required partners to equally step up their game as the corporation can no longer accommodate any AMP not moving on the same speed. Principal Partner, Lexavir Partners, Francis Chuka Agbu, a senior advocate of Nigeria and AMCONs Group Head, Enforcements, Aliyu Kalgo also called on the AMPs to leverage the special powers as provided by the AMCON Act 2010 as amended to improve on their assignment. The Independent National Electoral Commission has said it would continue collation of results in Rivers State. Although no dates were immediately assigned for the resumption of electoral process, the commission said it would on March 20 make available a detailed plan on how the exercise would continue in earnest. The collation of results and other activities for Rivers State governorship and other state parliamentary elections were suspended on March 10 following widespread report of violence and other forms of intimidation that prevented electoral officers from seamlessly performing their roles. The commission said Nigerian soldiers and some armed gangs contributed to the charging atmosphere that made it difficult for electoral officers to continue with collation at the state INEC headquarters in Port Harcourt, the state capital, prompting the suspension of all electoral processes on March 10. The postponement drove a wedge between major political parties and INEC, with the Peoples Democratic Party and the All Progressives Congress warning against subversion of the peoples will at the ballot box. The APC, which does not have a candidate in the race following a legal dispute, said the PDP was already losing the election to the candidate of AAC, a party many state residents werent familiar with until days to the election. A few days to the election when the APC realised its legal challenge to its disqualification by INEC had reached a dead end, transportation minister, Rotimi Amaechi, urged party loyalists to vote for the AAC candidate. Initial results claimed the AAC was winning some local governments by large margins, but that was countered by the PDP which accused Mr Amaechi of fabricating results in collusion with soldiers. A host of local and international observers said intimidation of electoral officers by soldiers were observed in Rivers State election, a development they said undermined the process. The Nigerian Army swiftly rejected the allegations, saying those found disrupting ballots were not soldiers but thugs in military fatigues. This claim was however undermined by videos clips showing troops alighting from military branded vehicles. The commission in a statement Friday said a panel raised to investigate what transpired in the state had submitted its report, and found that elections indeed took place for governorship and House of Assembly seats in Rivers State on March 9, alongside dozens of other states in the country. It said soldiers were actually found to have disrupted the collation exercise in the state, especially in the capital where officers did not allow collation officers to announce returns in peace. Still, INEC said it would have a rapport with security agencies, especially the Nigerian Army, as it worked out another date to complete the process and declare winners for the House of Assembly and governorships seats. INEC said it already concluded results of the governorship election from 17 of the states 23 local government areas. For the House of Assembly elections, returns had been made for 21 of 32 state seats in the exercise. All the rest would now be concluded on a date to be announced on March 20, INEC spokesperson, Festus Okoye, said in the Saturday morning statement. SEE FULL REPORT BY INEC BELOW. RIVERS STATE GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION 1. On the 10th of March 2019, the commission suspended all electoral processes in Rivers State having determined that there was widespread disruption of collation of results of the elections conducted on the 9th day of March 2019. Subsequently, the commission set up a fact-finding committee to assess the situation and report back within 48 hours. 2. The commission met on the 15th day of March 2019 and considered the report of the committee and established the following: i. That the governorship and state assembly elections took place in most of the polling units and results were announced. ii. That results from 17 local governments our of 23 were available and are in the commissions custody. iii. That the declaration and returns for 21 state constituencies out of 32 were made prior to the suspension. iv. That collation centres were invaded by some soldiers and armed gangs resulting in the intimidation and unlawful arrest of election officials thereby disrupting the collation process. 3. Consequent upon the foregoing, the commission: Expresses its displeasure with the role played by some soldiers and armed gangs in Rivers State disrupting the collation process and attempting to subvert the will of the people. ii. Is committed to expeditious completion of the collation process where results of the elections have been announced. iii. Will engage the security agencies at national level and the inter-agency consultative committee at the state level to demand neutrality and professionalism of security personnel in order to secure a peaceful environment for the completion of the elections. iv. Will also engage with key stakeholders in Rivers State with a view to ensuring a smooth and peaceful completion of the process. v. Will issue detailed timelines and activities for the completion of the election on Wednesday, March 20th, 2019. Festus Okoye, National Commissioner and Chairman Information and Voter Education Committee March 15, 2019. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approved the resumption and conclusion of collation of results in Bauchi State. The commission said the collation and announcement of results from Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area for the governorship election will be completed as the duplicate and original Registration Area results are available. The collation process for Tafawa Balewa Local Government will resume Tuesday, March 19. The commission made this known in a statement late Friday night by its spokesperson, Festus Okoye. The Commission has taken the following decisions: Approved the resumption and conclusion of the collation of results. Approved the resumption, conclusion and announcement of the result of the Tafawa Balewa State Constituency. The Investigation Committee established that the result In Polling Units and Registration Areas are available and in safe custody. According to the statement, the commission made this decision after its meeting on Tuesday, March 12. The meeting considered a report submitted by the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Bauchi State on the disruption of the collation process at the Tafawa Balewa Collation Centre which led to the cancellation of results for the entire local government. PREMIUM TIMES had exclusively reported on the findings of the committee. The committee explained that elections held in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area and the votes scored by candidates were announced at the polling units. These results were collated at the 11 Registration Areas of the local government but halfway into the local government collation, armed gangs attacked the collation centre and destroyed the local government result sheet (EC8C) and some collated results from the registration areas. This affected results of 7 out of 11 Registration Areas for governorship and 6 out of 11 for state assembly elections. INEC guidelines provide that where violent disruption affects collation in this manner, results should be regenerated from duplicate copies on a replacement result sheet. However the collation officer, under pressure from party agents who could not wait for the arrival of a replacement result sheet, decided to collate the result on an available RA result sheet instead of the replacement LGA result sheet. When the result was presented at the state governorship collation centre, the returning officer rejected the regenerated result because it was on a wrong result sheet. INEC on Monday therefore declared the Bauchi State governorship election inconclusive due to the margin of lead. From the final results declared, the margin of lead stood at 4059 which is less than cancelled Votes, 45,312, excluding Tafawa Balewa local government. The commission further announced March 23 for another fresh election in the affected polling units of Tafawa Balewa LGA alongside other states. The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) whos candidate was in the lead, has however alleged that INEC has concluded plans to cancel declared results from 14 local governments in Bauchi State. The party, made this known at a press briefing by its spokesperson, Kola Ologbondiyan on Friday. Correction? INEC also said its investigation committee established that the number of cancelled votes for the four polling units in Ningi Local Government Area which was recorded as 25,330 in form E0106 (1) was incorrect. INEC said the actual figure is 2,533. Consequently, the commission directed that the error in the total number of cancelled votes in four polling units in Ningi Local Government Area should be corrected from 25,330 to 2,533. INEC also approved the appointment of a new Collation/Returning Officer for Tafawa Balewa Local Government to continue and conclude the collation process in place of the original collation officer who withdrew from the exercise citing threats to her life and those of her family members. PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported how the former collation officer in a letter to the INEC leadership alleged threats to her life if she returned to Bauchi. The commission appealed to all actors for continuous support and understanding. How Things Stand After the collation of 19 local governments out of the 20, the APC trails the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Bala Muhammed, with 4,059 votes. The APC scored a total of 465,453 votes against the PDPs 469,512 votes. Muhammed Kyari, the states returning officer, also announced that number of cancelled votes from the announced local governments was 45, 312 votes. However, in Fridays statement, INEC announced that there was an error in the number of cancelled votes from Ningi local government. According to the commission, instead of 2,533 that was the actual number of cancelled votes from the local government, 25,330 has been recorded. The commission said the correction would be made during the resumption of the collation process on Tuesday. According to the results announced at the Tafawa Balewa collation centre, which was rejected by the returning officer, the PDP also has a healthy lead there. It scored 40,010 votes against the APCs 29,862 votes. If the result is accepted as announced by INEC, it will extend the PDPs lead in the election to 14,207 votes. However, with the correction of the error in Ningi, the number of cancelled votes will be reduced from 45,312 to 17,449 votes, which will make the possibility of an APC win more difficult in a supplemententary election. Gbenga Daniel, a former governor of Ogun State and chief strategist for the Atiku Abubakar presidential campaign, has resigned from active and partisan politics. Mr Daniel, a longtime chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, said in a letter to the partys chairman, Uche Secondus, that he abandoned politics after realising that he had reached the peak of his career. The 62-year-old would now spend the rest of his retirement running his charity and political foundation, he said in the March 14 letter. A career engineer with renown background in installation and maintenance of elevators, Mr Daniel joined the PDP in 2001 to run for governor in Ogun State. He defeated incumbent Olusegun Osoba in the 2003 general elections, and went on to serve two terms until 2011. Mr Daniel said a crisis that engulfed the PDP in Ogun State shortly before he left office lingers 10 years on, desperate concerted efforts by party loyalists to find a lasting solution. He was arraigned for alleged corruption shortly after leaving office by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and disappeared into political oblivion as he struggled to extricate himself of the multi-billion naira charges of misappropriation of public funds. Several years after his arraignment, however, no verdict had been reached by the federal court on his matter. Mr Daniel regained political prominence in 2017 when he ran to be national chairman of the PDP. Even though he ran some of the sturdiest campaigns at the time, he ultimately lost to Mr Secondus at the partys national convention in December 2017. Although Mr Daniel shared the sentiments of other Yoruba politicians who alleged widespread injustice and conspiracy in the conventions outcome, he soon re-emerged as the main man of Mr Abubakars presidential exploratory panel in early 2018. In May 2018, Mr Abubakar confirmed widespread expectation and named Mr Daniel his campaign director. But following Mr Abubakars victory at the presidential primaries in October 2018, Mr Daniel was dropped as the director general, replaced by Bukola Saraki, Nigerias Senate President. But Mr Abubakar kept Mr Daniel as a key strategist with somewhat undefined but sweeping roles in the campaign structure. Multiple sources close to Mr Daniel told PREMIUM TIMES Saturday that his resignation was a fallout of the outcome of the presidential election, which saw President Muhammadu Buhari declared winner against Mr Abubakar with nearly four million votes difference. Mr Daniel felt he could have done better to ensure victory for the party but for his removal as the head of campaign committee, according to a source close to the former governor. He was rejected because he is a Yoruba when he contested for the partys chairmanship, an associate of Mr Daniel knowledgeable of the discussion that preceded his resignation from the PDP told PREMIUM TIMES on Saturday. Then he was humiliated by being removed as the DG of campaign shortly after securing the presidential ticket. Mr Daniel did not publicly oppose the appointment of Mr Saraki as the campaign DG, and insisted in his letter that the decision to quit politics was strictly personal and not borne out of ill-feelings against the party or elements within it. Kola Ologbondiyan, a spokesperson for the PDP, told PREMIUM TIMES Saturday afternoon he had not seen Mr Daniels letter to the party, and would, therefore, not be able to comment. A spokesperson for Mr Abubakar was unavailable for comments Saturday afternoon. Read below a full transcript of Mr Daniels letter to Mr Secondus which a party source made available to PREMIUM TIMES Saturday afternoon: 14th March, 2019 The National Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party, Wadata Plaza, Michael Okpara Street Wuse Zone II, Abuja *Attention: Prince Uche Secondus* Mr. Chairman, *Resignation from Partisan Politics* This is to inform you of my intention to resign from active and partisan politics with effect from today, the 14th day of March, 2019. My decision in this regard is entirely personal to me and having served in various capacities, including as Governor of Ogun State, I have resolved to immerse myself in some other vocations and take on some new challenges. *Preamble* My Political Journey so far I joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State on Sunday, the 9th of September, 2001 at an event which was described as one of the most ceremonial political rallies in our recent political history in the South Western part of Nigeria. We rose from that rally to create a highly robust and effective political campaign machinery which resulted in an electoral victory for the Peoples Democratic Party in Ogun State in 2003; this movement and vibration affected the politics of the region positively with a victory in five (5) states of the South West. 2. I served as Governor of Ogun State for eight (8) years and our administration till today remains a point of reference in terms of physical, social, economic, educational and human capital development since the State was created in 1976. 3. Notwithstanding these widely acclaimed achievements however, our party, the Peoples Democratic Party ran into trouble waters towards the end of our administration (about the year 2009) which led to the sad loss in the election of 2011, and regrettably ten (10) years after the party has been unable to resolve those internal disputes and challenges. 4. Meanwhile, the PDP in Ogun State was confronted with a very difficult situation in matter of choice. Whereas the national leadership of our party, recognized one candidate for the 2019 election, by court pronouncements another candidate, and in compliance with those court orders, which the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognized was on the INEC list. The candidates recognized by INEC were not acceptable to the national leadership of the party. Our situation was then compounded because the candidate which the court and INEC recognized and accepted as valid has also been expelled by the party. This was the dilemma we found ourselves as we approached the March 9, 2019 Governorship and State House of Assembly elections. 5. Going forward, we have responded to the yearnings of our people and joined others in emplacing an administration that we believe will better serve the interests of our people than what currently exists. The rest they say is now history. 6. I must say that looking back, I do not have any regrets over that patriotic choice and decision, especially as several of our citizens, leaders and stakeholders in the state and outside have commended that singular action. Many stakeholders within and outside Ogun State feel fulfilled, excited and grateful about our decision to join others in putting a stop to a regime that was believed to be against the collective and general welfare of our people. 7. Let me also add, that in the last few months, I have had one of the rare privileges of traveling round the entire length and breadth of our great country on at least two occasions; the first being during my campaigns to become the National Chairman of our great party, and later as the Director General of the Atiku Presidential Campaign Organization (APCO). 8. I must sincerely admit that in the course of all these travels, I have built a network of contacts, of friends and associates in a mutually rewarding relationships which I cherished most and greatly too. I am therefore persuaded that I have fewer points to make and prove in my Political journeys in partisan politics. 9. My decision to quit partisan politics notwithstanding, I have decided to rejuvenate my charity based organization, the Gateway Front Foundation (GFF) which will literally continue to dispense succor to our people in need, address and assist in the areas of some of their health challenges; I also plan on resuscitation of the non-partisan Political Leadership Academy (POLA) which I established some years ago as a platform of political education to our citizens. 10. Without doubt, I will miss the company of my friends and associates and all those relationships I built in the course of the years all over the country. While I crave for your kind understanding, accept assurances of my highest regards. Yours faithfully, Otunba (Engr.) Gbenga Daniel, FNSE, FNAEng Governor of Ogun State (2003-2011). Cc: His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar GCON Chairman, Board of Trustees (PDP) The University of Ilorin says it will organise a candlelight procession for one of its alumni, Prof. Pius Adesanmi, who died aboard the Boeing 737 Max8 that crashed on Sunday. A statement signed by Kunle Akogun, Director, Corporate Affairs of the University, on Saturday in Ilorin said the candlelight procession would be organised by Faculty of Arts, on March 19. The university described the death of Prof. Adesanmi as a colossal loss to the country and humanity in general. He said that the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sulyman Abdulkareem, also described the late Professor of Literature and African Studies as a true nationalist and a rare patriot. He said that Mr Adesanmi graduated from the University of Ilorin in 1992 with a First Class honours degree in French. The vice-chancellor described the deceased as a humanist and an embodiment of all the ideals that Unilorin represents. Mr Abdulkarin lamented that Mr Adesanmis death came at a time when the nation needed his robust intellectual and incisive contribution to its development most. The country had benefitted immensely from the late Professors dispassionate interventions through well-researched social commentaries on national issues at critical points of its socio-political and economic development. Being a committed nationalist, the late Adesanmi was never happy at the state of rot in critical sectors of the nation. He never kept quiet nor indulged in complacency, as many of his colleagues who had found comfortable solace abroad, he said. Mr Akogun quoted Mr Abdulkareem, as saying, that less than 24 hours before his demise, the patriotic zeal in the late social critic was evident on his Twitter Handle, where he was still discussing the then ongoing governorship and State House of Assembly elections in the country. While commiserating with the entire nation, especially the immediate family that the late don left behind, the Vice-Chancellor urged Nigerians not to allow Prof. Adesanmi die in vain. Nigerians should emulate his patriotic zeal toward taking the country to greater heights. Mr Adesanmi an indigene of Isanlu in Kogi,started was a staff of Unilorin. He was a lecturer at Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada, before his death in a plane crash on Sunday, March 10, 2019 at 47. (NAN) President Muhammadu Buharis wife, Aisha, on Saturday visited victims of the Ita-Faji building collapse at the Lagos Island General Hospital to sympathise with them. Ms Buhari offered her condolences to the victims of the incident, which claimed the lives of no fewer than 20 people, including school children. Mrs Buhari, who visited women and children wards of the hospital, prayed God to grant the families that lost loved ones the fortitude to bear the loss. She also wished those still on admission speedy recovery. One of the victims and teacher in the school located in the collapsed building, Easter Samuel, expressed her shock over the incident. The 19-year-old teacher, who was receiving treatment in the hospital, prayed to God not to experience such unfortunate incident again. The Chief Medical Director of the Hospital, Gani Kale, said 10 children were admitted in the hospital after the incident. According to him, three out of the patients have been discharged, having certified their medical fitness. Mr Kale said there was no case of referral to another hospital. The wife of the president was accompanied to the hospital by former military administrator of Lagos State, Buba Marwa, and former Deputy Governor of Plateau State, Pauline Tallen, among others. (NAN) In the past days of the week, the country has been faced with tumultuous and heart-breaking events that have left many families in tears, pains and anguish. These tragedies, most of which have been attributed to human error than natural disaster, claimed lives of both young and old, while some are at the mercies of doctors for treatment and survival. In this report, PREMIUM TIMES brings to fore the sad occurrences that dominated the media space during the week. Ethiopian airline crash On Sunday, Nigerians woke up to the news of the Ethiopian plane crash that had 157 passengers and crew members on board, with no survivor. The sad occurrence claimed the lives of people of different nationalities, making it an international tragedy. The aircraft, Boeing 737 MAX 8, plunged into a field minutes after take-off from the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa, killing all 157 people aboard. In the breakdown of the passengers countries of origin released, there was a Nigerian, 32 Kenyans, 18 Canadians, nine Ethiopians, eight Italians, eight Chinese, eight Americans, seven Britons, seven French citizens, one Egyptian, five Dutch citizens, four Indians and four people from Slovakia. Countries of the deceased have been mourning some of their great national assets, who lost their lives in the crash. For Nigerians, the loss of a Nigerian-born Canadian scholar, Professor Pius Adesanmi, sent grief down the hearts of many. A candlelight procession in his honour, was organised in Abuja, Lagos, Ibadan and Ilorin. Mr Adesanmi, a satirist, public commentator and a columnist for multiple national newspapers was honoured in Carleton University, where he headed the African studies institute, before his death. The university came up with a memorial fund to support exceptional students education. Another Nigerian, Abiodun Bashua, an ambassador, was also a victim of the disaster. Before his demise, Mr Bashua was a UN expert who had extensive experience in several United Nations peacekeeping operations in Africa. Meanwhile, the United Nations came together on Friday to honour its 21 staff members, who were among the 157 lost to the crash with the remembrance ceremonies held at UN Headquarters in New York and Geneva. We come together in sadness and solidarity to pay tribute to our fellow UN family members who perished, UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, said after laying a wreath in remembrance of the workers. Although the airline officials have commenced investigation in to the cause of the ill-fated Ethiopia airline crash, nine countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia and Nigeria, have taken the decision to ground the Boeing 737 Max 8 operations in their airspace, pending further investigations. Lagos building collapse Still in a solitary mood, Nigerians on Wednesday afternoon got the news of a three-storey building which collapsed in Ita Faji area of Lagos Island with over 16 dead bodies recorded. According to a Reuters report on Friday, 20 people were killed and 45 others survived in Wednesdays building collapse. Commissioner Jide Idris gave no details of how many children were among the dead but he said 10 children and four adults were still receiving medical help, the report highlighted Aside the dead, many other persons injured were rescued from the rubble and taken to different hospitals for treatment. According to the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), at least 40 pupils, including 10 dead bodies were pulled out of the rubble on Wednesday. The police, through the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Intelligence Investigation Department (SCIID), Panti, Yetunde Longe, said it has commenced an investigation into the building collapse. The Lagos State governor, Akinwumi Ambode, who described the situation as an unfortunate one, stated that the foundation of the collapsed building is an old one. Like what you have seen, two floors have gone under the ground. It is only the pent house and the other floor that children have been rescued, Mr Ambode said. However, following the directive of the governor, officials of the State Building Control Agency, led by its acting general manager, Omotayo Fakolujo, have begun the demolition of 80 buildings earlier marked for demolition. Residents had protested, highlighting that if the building was brought down by the state government when it was marked, it would have averted the loss of Wednesday. Multiple road crash in Anambra On Wednesday, not less than 20 people were crushed to death by a tanker containing kerosene at Upper Iweka Onitsha, Anambra State, with many reportedly injured. Also, on same day, at Ibughubu Market, Umuchu, in Aguata local government area of the state, six lives were lost to an accident involving a truck loaded with cement and a lorry. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) said that six persons lost their lives while 14 others sustained injuries in a multiple road crash at Upper Iweka Road, along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, Onitsha on Wednesday. Six persons, four males and two females, died instantly while 14 others sustained injuries. The victims were taken to Toronto Hospital and Borromew Hospital, Onitsha, Kunapayi Adodele, the Sector Commander of the corps in Anambra, said. However, the state chairman of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Peter Katch, said the organisation evacuated seven corpses to Toronto Hospital Morgue while four persons sustained injuries. A tanker loaded with kerosene lost control and rammed into people and killed a lot of them from MCC Bus Stop down to Peace Motor Park gate. Seven dead people were deposited at Toronto Hospital Mortuar, and one other person we took to the hospital is still receiving treatment. Ibadan building collapse Barely two days after a three-story building collapsed in Lagos Island in Lagos State, a two-storey building collapsed in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital on Friday. PREMIUM TIMES gathered that the building, an uncompleted site, collapsed around 5.50 p.m. on Friday. The affected building is located in Sogoye, along Bode, Molete area of Ibadan. Though details of the incident are still scanty, our correspondent gathered that some site workers are still trapped, as at the time of filing this report. A witness told PREMIUM TIMES on Friday that about three people who sustained various degrees of injuries have so far been rescued from the building. However, the Oyo State government, on Saturday, disclosed that there was no casualty in the building collapse incident. In a statement by the state commissioner for information, culture and tourism, Toye Arulogun, the government stated that the multi-agency rescue operation team set up by the governor was able to achieve the evacuation of all victims from the collapsed building which was under construction, as at the time of the incident. He added that the injured, who are in stable condition, have been taken to the hospital while no death was recorded. While admonishing building construction practitioners to desist from cutting corners and using cheap materials, the spokesperson further stated that an investigation into the incident will be carried out by the relevant agencies. The first gunshot, piercing through the mid-section of his aluminium door, came without warning. Then the second. Third. The sound of gunfire rent the air. Only then did it dawn on Abbah Danmori that his neighbourhood was under attack. It was 11 p.m. in Ungwar Barde community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Having performed his pastoral duties for the day, Mr Danmori, a Chaplain of St Bernard Parish in the Idon neighbourhood had retired for the day, only for his peaceful rest to be truncated. The coordinated attacks started in his compound comprising three plastered mud structures, which house his immediate family and relatives. At the next ruga, the Hausa name for settlement, the onslaught was at its peak. When the dust finally settled, six members of the family had been murdered, including an unborn child. First to be killed by the bullet was Mr Danmoris brother, Gomina Abbah, 45, a farmer and father of eight. The gunmen also killed his 27-year-old son, Philemon Gomina, and six-year-old Marvelous Daniel. Then Mairo Daniel, a heavily pregnant woman in the compound, was shot. Deceased Philemon Perceiving an environment of chaos, the family matriarch, Maria Abbah, opened her door to see who was causing the mayhem. The attackers did not spare the 90-year-old blind woman as she was shot dead. There and then, a once lively compound became a shadow of itself. Saraya Kaka, her sibling, who was on a sympathy visit when PREMIUM TIMES visited, described the murdered nonagenarian as somebody who was full of fun. As the incursion continued, Mr Danmori still hid in his room, hoping that calm would return. But it did not until five more people were murdered in cold blood. After the raid on the Abbahs, the gunmen shifted their target to about 150 metres away from the compound. There used to be the abode of Samaila Jatau, 60, Samaila Ladi, his wife and their son, Tankifa. The gunmen killed the three, leaving patches of blood on their mattress. Then they set a part of the house on fire. The story was the same for Moses Kabiru, 32, and Kasham Stephen, 27. They fell to the bullets without much resistance. The ten people and seven-month-old foetus of the Abbah family were buried on Monday, February 11. The attacks The attack on the Adara community of Ungwar Barde was one of six attacks which left scores dead in communities in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Also attacked were Rugan Salihu, a Fulani community in Iri Axis, and three other Adara communities; Karamai, Ikirimi and Dogon Noma. Ungwar Barde was attacked twice. On Friday, February 15, a day to the initial date set for the presidential and National Assembly elections, Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State announced that 66 people died from attacks in Kajuru area of the state. That was the first time the attack was heard of. Abbahs blind matriach used to live inside this room After an extensive meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari and service chiefs on February 19, Mr El-Rufai said the death toll had risen to 130. The initial announcement was greeted by criticisms especially on the timing and casualty figures rendered by the state government. But life seemed to move on eventually, only for a short while. Two weeks after, the attacks resumed in Karamai community claiming 29 lives according to the police. A few days after the attack on Karamai, Ungwar Barde was attacked again, leaving at least 16 dead. The following Monday, Ikirimi and Dogon Noma also fell under attacks. Casualty figures in these communities are not known yet. Tales of sorrow from Adara Mr Danmori arguably lost the highest number of persons in the attacks and was still in grief when PREMIUM TIMES visited. Mr Danmori lost five family members His brother was the first victim of a crisis that has now set a large conglomeration of Fulani and Adara hamlets against one another in suspicion. The attacks started in the Christian-dominated Adara axis of Kajuru local government area leaving 10 dead, including a foetus. Precisely, at Ungwar Barde, an agrarian community with less than 500 residents. That was on the night of Sunday, February 9. The 90-year-old matriach On Monday, in what was reported as a reprisal attack, some Fulani communities in the Iri axis were attacked. It all started around 11 p.m. on Sunday, February 10, Mr Danmori recalled. After I had eaten, I laid on the bed. After that, I heard shots of gun on my door around 11 p.m. I woke up and asked who those were? I never understood what was happening. I just stayed in my room with my wife to see what God would do. Then I heard a noise. The noise signified that they (perpetrators) were Fulani. It seems they were chasing somebody and they had not caught that person and they were saying ande ande thats to show that they were Fulani men. Some people coming from a party at Ungwar Para, they never knew that something was taking place. Those Fulani people rushed them with guns. They too ran away. They entered the village. While the attack was going on, Mr Danmori managed to fasten the lock behind his door and fortunately, the perpetrators could not gain entrance. But this did not work for five of his family members. 11 Adara people were buried here Within my house, five people have been killed including a pregnant woman. They shot at my door with a gun. If you go to my house now youll see how the bullets penetrated. What helped me was that I locked the door on myself. Thats why they didnt penetrate. They burnt my brothers barn. Even though Mr Danmori claimed there was never a quarrel between the Adara people and the Fulani, he and other villagers were convinced their long-peaceful neighbours carried out the attack. Bullet hole on Danmoris door Jacob Maikarfi, one of the teachers sacked by Governor El-Rufai in 2018 participated in the burial. He said they have evidence to back their claims. They first called the DPO, he didnt come. He was called again and then he came and said we should bury the dead. We picked six sticks (belonging to the Fulani) and he (DPO) saw them. The sticks they used to beat some people who ran away. The sticks fell from their hands. Early morning, we picked them and handed them over to him. There was no government official during the burial. The residents no longer sleep in their homes. By 6 p.m. of every day after the attack, residents gather at an agreed location to trek to neighbouring communities where they feel relatively safe to pass the night. Village head flees When the attackers invaded Ungwar Barde on Sunday, there was little the village head, Daniel Audu, could do to help his people. In fact, he had to take to his heels. Picture of dead bodies shortly before burial On the 10th February, in the night. From 10 p.m. to 11 p.m., I was lying in my room, Mr Audu began. I slept around 8 p.m. because the weather was cold. When I was asleep all of a sudden they knocked at my door. I rose to check but I didnt see anybody. They knocked again, I came out but I did not see anybody. Immediately I returned to the room, I heard gunshots, I came out again. Again I didnt see anybody. Returning to my room, I heard another gunshot. Then I now came out and moved to this very place (front of his house). Then I saw a woman running towards me, she was crying and saying that everybody should wake up, the Fulani have stormed the community, they will finish us. I asked her who are you? She introduced herself then I discovered that she is a member of this community. Already members of the community were aware and they came out. From there, I ran into the bush. I remained in the bush until everything was calm. When the village head returned from his hiding, 11 members of his community had been killed in cold blood. His next action was to order that the injured be taken to the hospital, the closest which is more than an hour away on a torturous ride on a bike as the community has no motorable road. Then the police came in. Mr Audu I now went to search for a network to call the District Head. The District Head now called the DPO. The DPO came on Monday. When he came, we showed him all that happened. He now gave us permission to bury the victims. We dont know anything like retaliation. Even when we invited the DPO, he saw everybody here. There was no retaliation. Mr Audu said there were some other people in the hospital (five). Two had been discharged. Residents of Ungwar Barde He also confirmed that there was no rancour between them and their Fulani neighbours and that the Fulani only move on their land when they are migrating. They dont live close. The village head is pained that his community was abandoned after the attack. No government official or representative has ever come here, he said. Fulani hamlets deserted Rugan Salihu, the Fulani community that was attacked in the reprisal, is about an hour ride from Ungwar Barde. While Ungwar Barde is only accessible by motorbike on a bumpy, dusty road, Rugan Salihu can be accessed by car starting from the rail line at Idon, though inconveniently. Destroyed Fulani homes (2) By 6 p.m. on Wednesday, February 20, PREMIUM TIMES journalist embarked on the journey to the Fulani axis. But the trip was soon cut short by operatives of Operation Yaki who asked to know where the journalist and his colleagues were heading to. The Operation Yaki operatives were just coming back from the Fulani troubled community and were giving security cover to some of the Fulani residents who went to pack their belongings. Four Hilux vans, with three marked Operation Yaki, were deployed for the mission. Operation Yaki providing security cover for the Fulani who went for their properties After several minutes of conversation with the team, two of the Fulani survivors, Ibrahim Adamu and Samaila Adamu, were asked to accompany journalists to the scenes of the attack. The first port of call was the riverine area where the General Officer Commanding One Division of the Nigerian Army, Faruk Yahaya, said 37 people were slaughtered and buried in a shallow grave. Army says 37 people were buried here I spent five days burying dead bodies before the governors visit, and I can tell you that 131 Fulanis were killed, said Mr Ibrahim. We are yet to know the whereabouts of seven of our brothers or their bodies which made the figures 131. 37 people were buried here in the presence of security agencies who took the pictures. I was the one who gave the figures of the people killed to the governor when he visited us. Mr Ibrahim believed the killing of the Fulanis was a reprisal by the Adara people. We have been living in peace with Adara people over the years. I am now 39-year-old and I have been living in this community since my childhood. We cook together and sometimes they do cook for us during celebrations, that has been the tradition. I grew up to meet that and I dont know the motives behind this tradition, the only thing is we dont marry ourselves. We suspect that the killers are Adara people, he said. The two brothers showed journalists a heap of sand, about 15 metres long and 10 metres wide where they said 37 people were said to have been buried. Right to left, Samaila and Ibrahim An offensive odour oozed from the grave just beside two abandoned motorbikes believed to belong to some of the Fulani people attacked. The brothers said 18 others were buried in other locations but could not point to any other grave when asked where. They also could not mention where over 70 other bodies were buried, which would make the figures add up to 130 or 131 as claimed. Away from the riverine area, the community has become a ghost of itself. All of the residents are now taking refuge in several communities, especially in a community called Crossing, well-populated by the Fulani. Dry blood found on a stone at the river rine area Nothing was spared at Rugan Salihu where the major attack on the Fulani occurred. What is left of the once-bustling community were ashes, tattered roofing sheets, shattered muds and crop wastes. On a count by PREMIUM TIMES journalist, seven mud houses, 11 rafts, and several barns were destroyed by the attackers. The two brothers are not sure of what life would look like in the coming days but they still want to live peacefully with the Adara people. Amidst this, we are ready to return to our community to live in peace again. We have no home except this place, Mr Ibrahim said. Life unbearable for Fulani survivors For some of those attacked in Rugan Salihu, life will never remain the same without their kinsmen, cattle and properties. Zule Adamu, in her 60s, now lives with some good Samaritans in Crossing. She is still traumatised as the attack took away people most dear to her. Her daughters, Zainab, Rahamatu, Hafsat and granddaughter, Zainab, all died during the attack. That was how far her memory could take her. I never knew what happened at first. I was at the farm when I saw people running and I also ran, she started teary-eyed. They attacked us and didnt leave anything behind. They burnt all our properties. In our house alone, they killed about 50 people. Its only those who ran and was able to escape that are remaining. I dont have anything again, no property. Some of our cows are stranded inside the bush but nobody dares go there to search for them. Up to 100 cows. Mrs Zule Her story is not different from that of Habiba Umar who lost her son, Uba Usman, and two brothers-in-law, Maa and Sani, to the attack. We just woke up and found out that people started burning our houses, killing our children. We ran into the bush and the attack continued from five in the morning till evening. After the attack, Habiba and some other lucky ones trekked through the bushes and the following day, arrived at Crossing. But life has been tough since then. She is convinced the attack was perpetrated by their Adara neighbours. Mrs Habiba Im not doing anything now. Even the rain that fell the day before yesterday ended on our body. No shelter. There is no other person, it was the Adara people that attacked. More like a rumour, they had been telling us that they would attack. Ibrahim Jubril, 40, now lives at Crossing. He lost more than 100 cows and also suspected the Adara people. We are suspecting that it is these people that we have been living with since (Adara people), he said. The attack on Karamai It is usual for women of ECWA Church, Karamai, to hold bible study early morning on Tuesdays. It is also usual for the service to hold peacefully. But the experience of Tuesday, February 26 was an exemption. The women were in the middle of the bible study around 6.30 a.m. when gunshots rent the air. Everyone scampered for dear life. One man just rushed into the church and told us that the village had been attacked. We also heard gunshots, that was how we started running, said Paulina Irimiya, the women leader in the church. The church, now deserted, was defaced by the attackers. Shattered windows, burnt chairs, and vandalised instruments gave it a new look. Half-burnt ECWA Church Mrs Irimiya was lucky to escape. But six members of her household were killed. One of them was her aged grandmother, Kananziri Papele, 90, who couldnt run like others. The police said 29 people, including a policeman, died. Majority of the houses in the community were either in ashes, still burning or already fell due to the impact of fire. Apart from this, most of them now have one, two or more graves, apart from a few sites where mass burial was conducted. One of the mass graves in Karamai The village is not entirely deserted but the few remaining are living in fear. By evening, they all gather in a large classroom in Karamai Primary School where they sleep under the watch of soldiers deployed to provide security for them. Titus Abdallah was picking what could be useful of the debris his household, Ungwar Usman, had turned to when this reporter visited on Tuesday, March 5. He never left the village since the attack not because he did not want to but there is nowhere to go. Titus working on whats left of his house Four people died in his household in the attack on Karamai. Two aged men; blind Usman Agewo, Ashavura Abdallah, Tanimu Masara his uncle and Kankani Danladi, his brothers daughter. But he is one of the luckiest; none of the members of his nuclear family fell to the attack. Before the incident, we heard a rumour that the Fulani wanted to attack us. We heard that they had been coming in numbers and entering through the other road. When we heard that, we decided that children and women should be sleeping outside the villages and we men should stay to secure the houses. That morning, the women and children had returned home when they entered the village and attacked people. We saw them. They wore black clothes and they were in uniform. I went out to check a land I wanted to farm on. Once I reached that primary school (about 500 metres away), I heard gunshots and cries. I looked at my house and it was already in smoke. I could not come to the house again, I had to run. Ungwar Usman is about 400 metres from the family house of the Danjumas. 18-year-old Marcus Danjuma could not still come to terms with life without his father, mother and brother. Danjuma Malmo, 60, his wife, Elizabeth Danjuma, 50, were buried in a single grave in front of their room. Ashes from their room were still spiralling with flames even after it rained in the community. Their first child, George Danjuma, 30, who used to work in Abuja had come for a visit when the incident happened. He was buried somewhere close to a river, survived by a daughter, Miracle Williams, just three. Marcus and Miracle I was not in the house. We had heard the news that they would come so we went to sleep in the bush. I came back to the house the following morning. After the attack, it was another task finding the corpses of the deceased. I did not see their corpses. Its my elder brother that went to look for them. They found their corpses in the bush. By brother; Danjuma meant uncles. In reality, he has been left to fend not only for himself but for poor Miracle who seemed to have understood the situation as she cried while the interview with his uncle lasted. The village head of Karamai, Micah Musa, lost his grandmother named Araseh, 80, to the attack. He would not outrightly point fingers but said the attackers came in the appearance of Fulani. Mr Micah He said, Those who are doing this, they came in the appearance of Fulani people. I heard what they were talking about. They said they will make Karamai, Maro and the entire Adara to become Kofe. They want to make sure they destroy the entire Adara land. Since Ive been alive, Ive never seen anything like this. Weve never fought with any people. Other attacks While the people of Ungwar Barde, Rugan Salihu and Karamai were still counting their losses, the attackers have launched a series of onslaughts on others. On Sunday, March 10, Ungwar Barde was attacked again. Police said 16 people were killed. Mass grave for deceased in second attack on Ungwar Barde A day after, Ikirimi and Dogon Noma, both in Kajuru Local Government Area, were also attacked. It started around 7 a.m. this morning, an indigene of Dogon Noma who simply wanted to be identified as Hon Stingo told PREMIUM TIMES. All of a sudden they (villagers) heard gunshots. When they began to come out of their houses, some were being shot dead. They divided themselves into three batches. One batch was standing strategically in the bushes surrounding the village. Two groups went in. The first group was the one firing. When people began to scamper for their lives, the second group entered and began to set the houses on fire. Then those who ran into the bushes, those that were standing there were waiting for them. The police or state government is yet to give a casualty figure. Police react In a question and answer session with journalists, the Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, Ahmad Abdurrahman, reacted to security-related issues and allegations arising from the trip. He countered the claim that policemen were on the ground and took pictures while the Fulani buried their dead. Destroyed Fulani homes The assertion of the Fulani that policemen were there and they took pictures, there was a mix-up. That hamlet where they talked about 37 corpses was discovered by the military. The terrain was terrible, you could not know where and where was affected on the first day. That area, in particular, no policeman went ahead of the military. It was the military that went there first to probably assist the Fulani and help them bury their dead. He said his men only went to the scene days later when they were informed of the incident during a patrol at Kasuwa Mangani. That was when we saw the first person you interviewed. He said his parent, wives and relations were there and we believed him because the whole hamlet was cleared. Dole Muhammad, the spokesperson of the Nigerian Army in Kaduna, did not respond to calls and text messages seeking clarification on Friday. The commissioner debunked allegations that only Adara people were arrested in connection to the attack. The Fulani (people) that came and attack the neighbours and left, we are still pursuing them. We have one suspect arrested and we are still working. Though he denied, hes giving us cooperation. To say that its only one side that is being investigated or arrested is not true. On general security, he said his officials were constantly on patrol in the area. He also dissociated the police from figures announced by the governor. Miyetti Allah demands investigation On Friday, February 22, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) released a statement containing names of 131 herders either confirmed dead or missing after the attacks. Out of the 131, the association said 66 had been buried while 65 persons were missing since the attacks. The association said the attack was perpetrated by the Adara people. It is by now an undeniable fact that in the early hours of Monday ninth February 2019, a militia group from known villages dominated by the Adara ethnic group unleashed one of the most heinous and brutal exterminations of Fulani pastoralists. As recounted by the survivors of the brutal murder, in just a period of less than three hours, misguided youth used sophisticated weapons, cutlasses, axes, knives and sticks to murder entire households settlements of the Fulani Pastoralists, the statement reads. Destroyed Fulani homes The association said most of the Fulani survivors are now living in distress with no hope as their livelihood, in terms of herds, has been wiped out. MACBAN also lashed out at those it described as rented vocalist external to the affected areas. These vocalists they mentioned to include Chido Odinkalu, Southern Kaduna Peoples Union {SOKAPU) and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). We are constrained to present to the public the names of the victims of this barbaric massacre because it appears those that want to deny this atrocity committed on the Pastoralists community in Kajuru local Government of Kaduna state ever took place are not abating in their desperate attempts to misinform the public by politicising the killings and downplaying the number of casualties in spite of all the evidence provided by the security agencies, including photographs and videos. While calling on the government to set up an independent panel of investigation to probe the attacks, MACBAN appealed for aids from people and government to make survivors recover well. Corpses must be exhumed to douse doubts SOKAPU In an interview with journalists, the National President of Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), Solomon Musa, insisted the governor must prove the numbers he announced. The question I will ask is when someone comes out to say five people were killed and another person said five people were not killed, the onus is on he who asserts to prove. The onus now is on His Excellency, the governor to cause the bodies to be shown. Why was the grave not exhumed? We are in this age where there are processes and procedures. All that is required is to go to court, get an order and let this grave be exhumed and to prove clearly. And if it is proven, the world will know. This is the standard minimum that should be done. What should have been done is to move there with journalists, international observers, religious associationsif you exhume fresh grave, people will know. The NMA will be able to prove. We will not be drawn into whether it is 66 people, 130 people. Tomorrow El-Rufai can wake up and say its a thousand. Assuming it is even a thousand, just prove. We have seen the corpses of the Adara people. And up till today, the governor has not deemed it fit to go to Adara land, Ungwar Barde. There has been no IDPs camp, no single relief material from Kaduna State government. He said the purpose of the governors reaction was political, to portray southern Kaduna people as violent, while rendering some hard words for Mr El-Rufai. Somebody is acting a script. Mallam Nasir El-Rufai is the greatest security threat to the whole of Kaduna State. I look at the camera and I say it. We call on the federal government to act on this man. State government, agency begin peace moves Meanwhile, the Kaduna State Peace Commission said it has started engaging the affected communities to find a lasting solution to the perennial problem. The commission, whose delegation has been visiting the troubled region since the announcement, is focused on peaceful and harmonious co-existence of residents of the state. As a commission, we have made efforts to engage that community. We are of the informed opinion that Kajuru Local Government requires very deep dialogue so that we can be able to talk through the grievances that exist which every now and then escalate. We are engaging that community. We know that as soon as the community stabilises, as a commission, we have the plan to go and begin a dialogue process, Priscilla Ankut, Executive Vice Chairman of the commission told PREMIUM TIMES on Thursday. On its part, the Kaduna State Government said it would set up a judicial commission of inquiry into the killings in Kajuru and part of Kachia Local Government areas of the state. Mr El-Rufai while visiting the Karamai and Sakiya communities said the commission, to be chaired by a senior high court judge, will investigate the root causes of the crisis. He said the committee would comprise security experts who would also look into the killings and investigate those behind it. Mr El-Rufai said the committee would further look at what could be done to address the issues, how many people were arrested and under investigation over the killings and their states, and why none had been convicted by the courts. A suspect facing trial for his alleged involvement in the April 5 bank robbery in Offa, Kwara State, has accused the police of forcing him to indict Senate President Bukola Saraki. The suspect, Friday Akininibosin, was speaking at at a High Court in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, on Friday. His testimony was reported by the Nigerian Tribune newspaper. Mr Akininibosin who is facing trial with four others for the robbery also told the court that he had no personal knowledge of Mr Saraki before he was arrested. According to Tribune newspaper, the suspect said that a former police officers allegedly involved in the robbery, Michael Adikwu, was killed for his inability to go with the alleged plan of the prosecutors. Shortly after the April 5 robbery which resulted in the death of 17 people, including nine police officers, the Nigerian Police cited confessions made by the accused persons during investigation, as indicting Mr Saraki. The police also said a picture of one of the accused at a wedding with Mr Saraki emerged, linking the Senate president with the armed robbers. According to the police, the suspects alleged to have worked as political thugs for Mr Saraki who allegedly supplied them with armunitions. Mr Saraki has denied any wrongdoing and alleged victimisation. In a dramatic twist, however, Mr Akininibosin retracted his earlier stance and accused the police of masterminding his confession which he claims was written for him by police officers. My hands and legs were tied to the back and suspended in between two tables by iron rod for like one hour 30 minutes. Then the senior police officer, Abba Kyari, came around to tell me that I should say that it was the Senate president that gave us guns to rob Offa banks, the paper said, quoting the defendant I told him my life is at stake here and that I wouldnt do such. Then, he said I should do that for them and that theyll pay me and thereafter set me free. I disagreed and was carried back to the cell on his instruction as I couldnt walk, it added. Abba Kyari is the police officer who led the team that arrested the suspects. Mr Kyari has also led his team to effect the arrest of other major crime suspects across Nigeria. He and his team have however, been accused of rights abuses and corruption, charges he has denied. The paper also quoted Mr Akininibosin as saying that the police intimidated them by killing five men in their presence and ordering them (the accused) to lie on the bodies of the dead people. I was shot on my two legs. I was later taken to Abba Kyari office, where he asked to know if I was ready to cooperate and I said yes and pleaded not to kill me. The next day was when Michael Adikwu was brought to identify us and say what connected us together. The dismissed officer said he didnt know us and after much torture, he was shot dead in our presence. The police had confirmed Mr Adikwus death in its custody but said he died of natural causes. According to the paper, the defendant said a journalist was later brought in who took his confessional statement, allegedly made under duress. I was panicked, thinking I was next to die. Later, a female TV journalist was brought by a police officer with a note, saying that was what they wanted me to say, and that if not, I will travel, meaning, I would be killed. That was how I agreed in the presence of the female journalist, who recorded while I was also beaten at interval. During cross examination however, the prosecution questioned the facts in the defendants claim, citing parts of the statements attributed to Mr Akininibosin which could only have been known by him. According to the prosecution lawyer, the witness claim that the statement was written for him does not support the authenticity of personal information contained in his witness statement. President Muhammadu Buhari has urged the actors in the communal and persistent violence in Kaduna State to come to terms with the fact that mutual violence has no winners, but losers on both sides of the conflict. At least 10 people were killed in Sanga local government area of the state on Saturday, according to a local official. The News Agency said residents suspected the attack was a reprisal by herdsmen who suffered some attack before the recent elections. The incident comes as Kaduna State struggles to contain rampaging attacks in several local government areas in the southern region that have claimed dozens of lives. Reacting to the endless carnage in Kaduna State on Saturday, President Buhari said, I am deeply troubled by the fact that sanctify of life is now treated with such reckless disregard that people derive joy in shedding the blood of others or perceived enemies. According to Mr Buhari, inhumanity has replaced compassion in the hearts and minds of the perpetrators of these atrocities. No responsible leader would go to bed happy to see his citizens savagely killing one another on account of ethnic and religious bigotry, he further noted sadly. According to President Buhari, Violence cannot be the solution to these persistent conflicts as long as people resort to deliberate provocations, revenge and counter revenge. He said that, While the government remains committed to protecting its citizens, the communities involved must also put their shoulder to the wheel in order to find a lasting solution. President Buhari noted that lack of cooperation by those involved might frustrate governments efforts towards finding a lasting solution, especially if those efforts are politicised. According to him, If the people resist governments efforts to hold the perpetrators and their sponsors accountable, it would be very difficult to bring the violence to a permanent end. President Buhari regretted that everything is politicised in Nigeria, including the efforts to bring offenders to justice, because their people will rise up in arms to resist their arrests and prosecution. He described hate, bigotry and prejudice as deadly poisons that have infected the human psyche on such scale that people now dont have any moral inhibitions about taking life. Hr also appealed to the warring communities to stop inhibiting the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMAs efforts to deliver food, medicines and temporary shelter to the victims of the violence who are in urgent need of assistance. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed a report by PREMIUM TIMES which exclusively revealed that the election umpire would regenerate and reinstate the cancelled votes from Tafawa Balewa local government in Bauchi. The result from the local government was cancelled because the local government collating officer, Dominion Anosike, after the collation centre was sacked by thugs who snatched away the authentic result sheet, recorded the result on a replacement form without the approval of the states returning officer as required by INECs guideline. PREMIUM TIMES had reported that the investigative committee set up by INEC to review the case of Tafawa Balewa had resolved to regenerate the result from the local government using duplicate result sheets from polling units and wards in the local government. In a statement released by INEC on Saturday morning, the commission announced that results from the polling units and registration areas in the local government are available and in safe custody. It therefore decided to approved the resumption and conclusion of the collation of results of Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area in relation to the Governorship election as duplicate and original Registration Area results are available. The commission also announced that it would appoint a new collation officer for Tafawa Balewa after Mrs Anosike withdrew from the exercise citing threats to her life and those of her family members. In a letter to the Chiarman of INEC, Mrs Anosike, a lecturer at the Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi, indicated that she has gone into hiding. She however said she was ready to testify about what happened during the collation process but would only do that in Abuja as she has been threatened with instant death if found in and around Bauchi. INEC stated that the disrupted collation process for Tafawa Balewa would esume on Tuesday, March 19. The Case of Ningi Local Government After the collation of 19 local governments of the 20 in the state, the APC trailed the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Bala Muhammed, with 4,059 votes. The APC scored a total of 465,453 votes against the PDPs 469,512 votes. Muhammed Kyari, the states returning officer, also announced that the number of cancelled votes from the announced local governments was 45, 312 votes. However, in Fridays statement INEC announced that there was an error in the number of cancelled votes from Ningi local government. According to the commission, instead of 2,533 that was the actual number of cancelled votes from the local government, 25,330 was recorded. The commission said the correction would be made during the resumption of the collation process on Tuesday. According to the results announced at the Tafawa Balewa collation centre, which was rejected by the returning officer, the PDP also has a healthy lead there. It scored 40,010 votes against the APCs 29,862 votes. If the result is accepted as PREMIUM TIMES has learnt, it will extend the PDPs lead in the election to 14,207 votes. However, with the correction of the error in Ningi, the number of cancelled votes will be reduced from 45,312 to 17,449 votes, which will make the possibility of an APC win more difficult. Rwandas latest accusations, according to a regional political analyst, that Uganda is hosting rebels who want to topple the regime in Kigali, is a flimsy excuse that has only exposed President Paul Kagame as a cry boy of the East African Community (EAC), the bloc his country joined in July 2007. President Rwanda has antagonized with almost every country in the EAC. Talk of Burundi, Tanzania and of DRC which does not belong to EAC. I am sure if Rwanda was bordering Kenya OR South Sudan Kagame would have had issues with them. It cannot be that all these countries hate Rwanda. Kagame is just a cry boy of EAC. He wants to make small issues big so that he escapes the blame, the analyst said on condition of anonymity for he is not allowed to comment on a particular country in the media since he is a regional peace broker as well. Kagame should ask himself why he has had bad relationships with Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi and DRC. It cannot that he is good and his neighbours are bad. Kagame is just someone who thinks neighbours owe him and not vice versa. Kagame should also remember that Burundi and DRC have in the past accused Rwanda of harbouring elements that want to destabilise governments in both countries. Stories Continues after ad The analyst also rubbished Rwandas accusations that Uganda has killed and mistreated 1000 Rwandan nationals, saying that if that was true many Rwandans would not be interested in coming to settle in Uganda which has more opportunities. I have seen many Rwandans doing business in Uganda. I have seen many Rwandans employed in Uganda, even in government. Is that killing them and mistreating them? He asked. President Kagame and his ministers should own the mistakes they have committed in Uganda. You cannot send your nationals to do subversive activities in a neighbouring country and when they are caught you dont want them to face the law. No country in the world can allow such criminals to act at liberty, he said. The analyst said Kagame and some of his ministers should thank Uganda for keeping them alive in the years when they were not wanted in their own country. They lived here studied here and benefited from Ugandas national programmes including scholarships. They cannot now go to Kigali and turn against Ugandans. The top leaders in Rwanda owe Uganda more than Uganda owes, he said. Another Kenyan political analyst Eagle Online talked to give his view on the current stand-off between Uganda and Rwanda said Rwandas denial of her citizens to enter Uganda and refusal of Ugandan goods to enter Rwanda is against the principles of the EAC. Rwanda joined the EAC because it recognised the benefits that Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania were enjoying such as free movement of persons and goods, he said. What the Kigali regime is doing to Uganda is bad and only shows Rwandan is undermining the same EAC he begged to join, he added. Kagames warning to kill former Tanzanian president Jakaya Kikwete The Kenyan analyst advised Kagame that Tanzanians have never forgotten the day when he threatened to kill former President Jakaya Kikwete. It is on record and have never forgotten that threat to the former fountain of honour, he said. In 2013 Kagame warned Kikwete that: Those people [Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete] you just heard siding with Interahamwe and (Democratic Liberation Forces of Rwanda) FDLR and urging negotiations negotiations? Me, I do not even discuss this topic, because I will just wait for you [Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete] at the right place and I will hit you (Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete) did not deserve my answer. I did not waste my time answering himIt is well known. There is a line you cannot cross, there is a line, a line that you should never cross. It is impossible First the former Rwandan Foreign Affairs Minister Louise Mushikiwabo and former Defense Minister, James Kabarebe, had publicly cursed Kikwete and called him a sympathizer of genocidaires, a genocide denier, and other names. Then former Prime minister Prime Minister and now President of the Senate, Bernard Makuza, called Kikwete a mediocre leader. Tanzanians have never forgotten these utterances from Rwandan officials, he said. Kagames threats came after Kikwete called on the authorities in Kigali to hold peace talks with the Democratic Liberation Forces of Rwanda to end the war of 17 years. Kagame felt then that Kikwete should apologise to him just because the former Tanzanian leader had made remarks that call on Rwandans to make peace. Tanzanians so that as funny. Kagame just like Amin The Ugandan ruler Idi Amin was one of the factors that led to the collapse of the East African Community (EAC). Amin was in a war of words with Kenya in 1976 about border demarcation. Amin then turned on Tanzania in 1978 alleging Tanzania was harbouring Ugandan rebels. The EAC whose roots are traceable to the customs union and common currency implemented by the British since the 1940s collapsed in 1977. Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda revived EAC which came into force in July 2000, 23 years after its collapse. Fast forward to March 2019 Kagame ordered Rwandans not to travel to Uganda and closed the common border with Uganda. Thus, Kagame becomes the second military ruler to jeopardize the EAC as he cries of foul play he alleges is ochestrated by Uganda. . . , . . , , . . . ... At least 10 people have been killed in a fresh attack in a community in Kaduna State, a local official said Saturday. Charles Danladi, the chairman Sanga Local Government Council, said the attack happened in Nandu village in the area. The chairman told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kafanchan on Saturday that the attack occurred on Friday and 11 houses were burnt. It comes as the state struggles to contain repeated attacks in Kajuru Local Government Area of the state in the last two months. Dozens of civilians have been killed there in communal violence believed to be between the Adara people and their Fulani neighbours. This week, the government imposed a dusk to dawn curfew in the area even as the attacks continued. The chairman of Sanga local government area, Mr Danladi, said normalcy has returned to the village affected by the latest round of violence, as the local council intensifies efforts at dousing tension to prevent reprisal. He said youth in the area had been summoned and counselled against embarking on any act capable of escalating the situation. A resident of the affected village, who pleaded anonymity told NAN that the attack was suspected to have been launched by Fulani herders in retaliation for an attack on them by locals before the general election. He said at least 11 cows and 28 sheep were killed during that attack. Efforts to get police reaction was unsuccessful as the spokesperson of Kaduna State Police Command, Yakubu Sabo, did not respond to telephone calls. (NAN) The Ooni of Ife, Enitan Ogunwusi, has said that the greatest misfortune that has ever befallen Nigeria as a nation was the discovery of oil and gas. Mr Ogunwusi said this late on Friday during a courtesy visit by the National Executive of Nigeria Tour Operators (NATOP) to the Oonis palace in Ile-Ife. The executive members were led by Bilikisu Abdul, NATOPs President and accompanied by some journalists. The traditional ruler said that Nigerians had failed to develop the tourism potential in the country due to the discovery of crude oil. He said that Nigerians had also forgotten that every nations tourism potential was inexhaustible compared to its oil and gas that has a life span. As a nation, our biggest problem has been discovering oil; we have different tourism products rich in content which are nature based, tourism is not exhaustible but oil is. It is important for us to propagate domestic tourism, it is the future of the country and that is the way things can get better. We should encourage people to travel within the confines of the nation, we should focus on things nature has blessed us with and take away every negative charge in us. Tourism is something I am very passionate about, I dont joke with it so let us all collectively groom it together, he said. The Ooni of Ife also in his responses to requests made earlier by the leaders of the groups under NATOP assured them of his royal support. He promised to attend the AKWAABA Travel Market in September, Calabar Carnival slated for December and NATOP Annual General Meeting in April. He said he was going to channel his resources to the success of the tourism events as each was capable of attracting tourists into the nation. He commended NATOPs president for her doggedness and sense of responsibility to ensuring that the Nigerian tourism sites were well marketed. I will say that you all have my full support for all these programmes tabled before me today, we will work together to take Nigeria to the next level, he said. Earlier, the president of NATOP, Bilkisu Abdul, appreciated the Ooni for his remarkable contributions to the development of the nations tourism industry. She appealed to the Ooni to host NATOPs 2019 Annual General Meeting at Ife in order to explore the huge tourism potential of the town. Your highness, we have come to appreciate you for your support so far and request that you host our 2019 Annual General Meeting here in Ife, she said. Also, Gabe Onah, Chairman, Calabar Carnival invited the Ooni to observe and participate in the activities of the forthcoming 2019 Calabar Carnival which had been slated for December. He said in the last two years, Carnival Calabar had been the most sustainable social and economic venture initiated and driven by both the Federal and the Cross Rivers State Governments. According to him, the Cross Rivers State Governor has expanded the festival with not only international flavours but explored every avenue to make the carnival a truly African product. I speak on behalf of Governor Ben Ayade who in his quest to Africanise the carnival, decided to involve most reputable traditional rulers in Africa. Mr Onah said that Cross Rivers State would be happy to have the presence of Oba Ogunwusi in the 2019 festival and equally tap from his tourism promotion involvement to actually improve its tourism brand. Carnival Calabar has been the yardstick for measuring events in Africa today as we have hosted over 50 countries and organisations across the world, boosting over a million visitors in the state yearly, he said. Similarly, Ikechi Uko, the Organiser of AKWAABA Travel Market, said that his organisation was planing to hold the first global tourism diaspora conference as part of its activities for 2019 festival. He said this was to recognise Nigerians in the Diaspora, 400 years after the first set of Africans were sold into slavery in 1619. According to him, plans are in top gear to invite several Nigerians in the Diaspora during the programme for them to explore some places in the country and know a bit of their history. Uko said that his organisation would be honoured to have the Ooni as the Special Guest of Honour during the festival. Our people from the Diaspora will be honoured to meet with you as the King of Africa during the festival. For 2019 AKWAABA, we want to recognise Nigerians in the Diaspora while we bring in some for the event. We have had our people from Brazil, Atlanta and other countries asking if they will see the king of Africa in 2019 AKWAABA and we have promised them that they will see you as our king of Africa, he said. Among those on the NATOP courtesy visit were: Gabe Onah, Chairman, Carnival Calabar, Ikechi Uko, Organiser, AKWAABA Travel Market, Ken Akah, Special Adviser to Governor of Cross Rivers on events, Fatima Garbati, former NATOP President and Gbabo Laura, NATOP Secretary. (NAN) The younger sister of Bukola Saraki, Nigerias Senate President, Oyinkansola Saraki, has said her brother failed to live up to expectations while he served as Kwara State governor. Ms Saraki called out his brother on a national TV programme. She criticised her brothers performance and asked for forgiveness from Kwarans while appearing at TVCsYour View on Thursday. Backstory Mr Saraki lost his bid to return to the Senate and may not be active politically for the next four years if the PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, whom he supported does not succeed in his bid to challenge President Muhammadu Buharis electoral victory. Mr Abubakar lost to Mr Buhari at the last presidential polls but is challenging the victory in court. The Saraki dynasty in Kwara since 1979 has produced six governors from the time of late Olusola Saraki who is the father of the Senate President. The Saraki structure was strong force that except you aligned with it politically, you were not likely to succeed as a politician in Kwara State. The Senate President was elected governor of Kwara in 2003 through the help of his father. After his tenure, he refused to support the candidature of his sister, Gbemisola, a former senator. Instead, he supported the incumbent governor, Ahmed Abdulfatai, who floored his sister against the will of his father. In the build-up to the 2015 election, Mr Saraki joined other aggrieved governors of the PDP to form the nPDP. The nPDP would later join other parties to form the All Progressives Congress (APC). That did not affect his control of the Kwaras political machinery as Mr Sarakis new party, APC, won the 2015 general elections in Kwara. He began to face challenges after the 2015 elections when he defied the APC, to emerge the Senate President, working in cahoots with PDP lawmakers. He, eventually, left the APC for the PDP in 2018 and sought the presidential ticket of the latter. He lost at the primary to Mr Abubakar. Mr Saraki was floored in the last elections. While the Senate President failed to deliver to PDP in the the presidential, national assembly and governorship election, he also lost his re-election to the Senate. With the magic of the political slogan, Oto ge (enough is enough), the PDP lost in all the 2019 elections in Kwara. Bukola, a failure Sister Reacting to the development, Oyinkansola Saraki, said she was disappointed with the way her brother governed the state. I am disappointed that Bukola Saraki did not do well when he was a governor in Kwara State having studied in the United Kingdom. Bukola and I studied in the United Kingdom, he knows all the good things in the United Kingdom. We think (thought) he should (would) reciprocate that in Kwara when he became the Governor but he failed them. Even as a Senate President, he has not carried the people of Kwara along. I am not happy the way my brother served Kwarans. She appealed to the newly elected state governor, Abdurahman Abdurazaq, to give her the opportunity to correct the family wrong to avoid nemesis. I just want the governor elect to give me a chance to serve the people of Kwara. Just to say we are sorry. I dont need appointment. Nemesis will catch up. I dont want nemesis to catch up on my children, my grandchildren or upon myself. Thats why I am saying the truth now. Good morning! I welcome you very warmly just a moment after hearing the policy statement presented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Government of the Republic of Poland, Mr Jacek Czaputowicz. I think that the information provided was interesting for everyone. Perhaps, it was slightly different from what we have become accustomed to so far - the Minister expanded his outline of foreign policy to include a historical perspective as well, going beyond the account of only what happened this year. But perhaps it is a good thing that the Minister has chosen to approach the matter this way, because it has given us the opportunity to see a broader spectrum of policies pursued in recent years. Thus, we could see consistency in the implementation of this policy, which, for one thing, must have been interesting to those who have listened to the policy statement and, for another, for which I thank the Minister, it serves to illustrate that this policy has been implemented in line with long-term plans and that it has its continuity. It can be generally concluded - looking at the issue of the so-called large-scale foreign policy - that the Minister spoke about three big international organisations in which Poland participates. What I have in mind are primarily the North Atlantic Alliance, the European Union and the United Nations. And it is against this background that we can take stock of of what Poland has been doing in recent years, in what projects it actively participated, what it has done, what we have succeeded in doing and what was underway. If we look at the North Atlantic Alliance, which celebrates its 70th anniversary this year, with Poland marking 20 years of its NATO membership, what comes to foreground is , first and foremost, the NATO summit in Warsaw in 2016 and the establishment of the so-called advanced forward presence of the Allied forces on NATO's eastern flank. Well, I will not be coy here: this - thanks to our determined efforts practically throughout most of 2016, and a few months of 2015. At that time, we tried to achieve this presence arguing "We have been in NATO since 1999, but we would like NATO to be reallay on our soil as well" - and it happened. This was indeed a breakthrough decision. Allied units, including in particular American troops, began stationing n Poland. Of course also in other countries, especially in the Baltic States - through the Enhanced Forward Presence. But also Tailored Forward Presence in Romania, where Polish detachments also take part - we are active in this area. Our soldiers are in Romania today, as well as in Latvia. Poland is also currently carrying out the Baltic Air Policing mission. So when it comes to security and defence cooperation within the North Atlantic Alliance, we are active also in our part of Europe. Of course, as part of our allied commitments, we are also present in other parts of the world, such as Afghanistan, where we are stepping up the number of our troops this year. Our battleship is also currently carrying out a NATO maritime mission. We are also present in other countries - such as the Balkans or Africa - all in all, our soldiers are actively involved in the North Atlantic Alliance. In this connection, it can be mentioned that regrettably, we are today one of the few countries of the North Atlantic Alliance which fulfils the obligation of spending at least 2% of GDP on defence. This, in a sense, puts us in a privileged position within NATO. This is emphasized in NATO dimension and in the international dimension- that Poland is a responsible ally true to its word, something which is of curse gratifying. As President, I can only readily welcome the fact that such an effective policy is being implemented. Mr Speaker, I would like to thank the Parliament very much for adopting a law more than a year ago, that puts on us an obligation to increase this expenditure to 2.5% of GDP by 2030. I would like to stress the request and appeal which I already made a year ago, but I have reiterated it recently - that I would very much like us to try to increase our level of expenditure more quickly; this in view of lasting good economic conditions, if, I hope, will continue. Perhaps it would have been possible to achieve by 2024? This is my appeal to the Government. Why? Because the Polish army is in great need of urgent modernization. These needs have to be met. I have said on many occasions, also yesterday at the occasion of the promotion of new generals, that we should do our utmost to move away from post-Soviet equipment and for our army to possess, have available and use for our defence only such equipment, which is commonly used in service by the armies of NATO countries: modern, meeting requirements of the modern battlefield and, above all, is in the vanguard of modern and innovative military technology. This is my point. I hope that we will act this way, buying fifth generation fighters for Polish Airforces in the future. I also hope that we will finally start modernising the Polish Navy - all this is ahead of us, such goals are numerous. But as I was saying: today we are an active member of the North Atlantic Alliance - this is recognised and acknowledged. The NATO summit in 2016 undoubtedly ended with a success, both in terms of its substance and organisation - so one can say that it was the summit of NATO's Polish success. It took place in Warsaw and due to his decisions - I hope - it will have a historical character and will be remembered for a long time. I am pleased that Minister Jacek Czaputowicz also referred to this issue today. But he also spoke about our presence in the United Nations. Today we are a member of the United Nations Security Council, we have been there full year in 2018 and we will be there for the whole of this year. Of course, this is a non-permanent membership. But it happens once every few decades for some countries, so it is infrequent. This affords an opportunity to act among the countries that have the most to say in the UN. We are present there under the motto 'Peace through law'. Thus, compliance with international law is, in our conviction - and it is shared by the absolute majority of UN members - a condition for an authentic peace in the world, so that it prevails and is restored by forcing everyone to respect international law. We have been reiterating this for a very long time in the UN fold. Now we emphasise this every time as we work in the Security Council. We are, of course, referring specifically to the problem of the occupation of Crimea today, to the problem of the territory of Ukraine ceased by Russia. We want this situation to normalise. We do not recognise anything like shifting borders by force in Europe; it is in our view the most dangerous phenomenon and no less than a blatant violation of international law. What is important - apart from our activity in the Security Council last year, is that we also organized a great conference COP24 in Katowice. We hosted, in Silesia, a climate conference, which was undoubtedly - as everyone concluded - another Polish success. I want to dwell on this point emphatically because, very much as it had been before - in the case of the NATO summit or World Youth Day - it was a success achieved thanks to the effort, work, inventiveness and days of toil of many people. I am very grateful to them, because we have shown ourselves to be a responsible, safe, efficient state that can organise a big international meeting, where everything goes well, where transportation is efficient, everything is delivered on time, where everything that participants need, is provided, and all this is delivered at the highest world-class level. I would like to emphasise this very strongly. In addition, to include one Polish accent, it was internationally recognized excellent Polish cuisine, which delighted our guests coming from abroad. I am very grateful for that. On top of this, of course, an extremely important issue, namely, the substantive provisions. The NATO summit in Warsaw was very successful in this respect, and the Climate Summit in Katowice last year also achieved a lot. Of course, some people stress that not everything has been realised. But we also need to be clear: from the outset, the experts said that it would be very difficult to reach an agreement at this summit; that the tasks that were set out earlier in Paris were very ambitious; and that it would be very difficult to implement the Paris Agenda, that is to say to implement the Paris Agreement, to prepare the relevant documents and agreements to this end. This has been achieved to a great extent, and it is also a great credit to us as organisers, and to Minister Kurtyka, who has been negotiating for a long time and now continues to be President of COP24 until the next summit. I am also very grateful for that. It has to be said clearly: we have put our best foot forward. We are active in this area, which I am very pleased about. I would like to thank everyone who took part in the effort. I am pleased that the Minister has also strongly emphasised this point today. There is also the question of our local and regional cooperation - today, within the framework of the European Union, we are also cooperating in the format of the Three Seas Initiative in Central and Eastern Europe, which continues to be active, we hold regular meetings. I hope that the Three Seas Fund will be set up, which will also generate more momentum for this corporation by creating additional financial opportunities. I am pleased that this year's Three Seas Summit will take place in Slovenia, and I hope that we will take further binding decisions. I hope that cooperation in the area of the Three Seas will be even more active at government level, that is, between prime ministers, and also between individual ministers. It is a matter of developing both road and rail infrastructure, in terms of other types of transportation, as well as energy security. Therefore, very important issues all of them, and something that we are still lacking here in Central Europe; something that will undoubtedly bring us closer to the most developed countries in Western Europe, and thus help to balance the development within the European Union, which, not least in my view, is very much needed in the European Union. I am pleased that this initiative is heading in this direction, and that the undoubted positive aspects of this initiative are becoming more and more visible not only here, in Eastern Europe, but also in the European Union, and therefore in Western Europe. That, in fact, this cooperation, together with our actions on the forum of the whole Union, aims at creating synergy effect and at improving the development of the European Union as a whole. I am happy about this and I hope that we will be able to implement this cooperation efficiently. Of course, if we look at our regional cooperation from other angles, too, we must not forget about the one, which is a narrower format, i.e. within the Visegrad Four, which is doing very well. We have excellent cooperation with each other, we keep holding regular meetings - at the level of prime ministers, ministers and heads of state, that is, presidents. We have also recently met in Prague in connection with the 20th anniversary of our countries' presence in the North Atlantic Alliance. I would like to make a very strong point: of course, those who are prone to criticism will point out that there are differences of opinions between the Visegrad Community countries. But divergences are nothing unusual, and the cooperation between us is very good, we are able to discuss everything. And even if there are discrepancies, the dialogue is always constructive - I want to underscore this very strongly. Generally, the cooperation is very good and I can say that we are friends, the point that is most important of all. We are always able to sit down at the table and talk to each other, negotiate on different topics, even if there are issues that we approach differently due to our internal, state interests. After all, each of us must look at each other's cooperation through the prism of ones own country and the expectations of our societies. It is our duty as of elected representatives, to respond to the needs of our voters, the people of the countries, being the ones who are to represent our respective countries. For me it is something completely natural. Finally, the third format: of NATO regional cooperation, the Bucharest Nine, it has also been working very well from the Warsaw Summit through all the successive NATO summits that have been held so far. Each time a common position, each time an unambiguous joint statement on the deepening of NATO's presence in our part of Europe, on the building of a security architecture. High activity on the part of Central European countries within the North Atlantic Alliance. Now we are talking about more activity in the Black Sea, where an incident has occurred on the Russian side in the Kerch Strait - and here too our position is clear. I hope that it will also be understood by other members of the Alliance. Once again, I would like to thank NATO Secretary General , Mr Jens Stoltenberg, for taking part in the recent summit of the Bucharest Nine in Kosice, because this shows that the Bucharest Nine is a very important forum within the framework of the North Atlantic Alliance - a forum of a regional nature. Of course, Minister Jacek Czaputowicz also spoke at length about the Polish community today. I am glad that he mentioned the subject since it is very important. I am glad that Poles are very active all over the world. Once again, I would like to thank our compatriots for organizing so many Polish and Polish-American ceremonies around the world in connection with the centenary of Polands regaining independence. I am very grateful to you for that. I hope that my words of thanks will be conveyed to you through the media. Thank you for remembering about your homeland. Thank you for remembering its history. Thank you for passing it on to young people. For my part, as President, I and my colleagues , we are convinced that also the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as the Senate, parliamentary committees will do their best to serve Polish diaspora and Poles abroad, supporting you wherever it is needed and where it is possible. I would like to thank you with all my heart for every cooperation undertaken so far and for your active promotion of Polish affairs, as well as for expressing your opinion on those matters which are important for Poland, finally for the frequent support lent to us beyond our borders in the various issues we are striving for. And finally, the question of ambition, of what we would like to see happening in the coming years, how we look at the reality that surrounds us. My perspective is as follows: we are today a member of the United Nations Security Council, we are - I am convinced - in the vanguard of the North Atlantic Alliance, we have in store the elections to the European Parliament. A new European Commission will be formed and, in future, the new European Parliament. All this will be arranged anew. We want to play the biggest possible role here. We are very ambitious. Ladies and Gentlemen, I would put it like this: we want to participate as much as possible, to be involved and to be involved in the work of G20. Our economy continues to grow. We are one of the fastest growing economies in Europe and one of the best economies in the world. I believe that we can have such bold aspirations. For me, this is an entirely natural ambition, and I believe that Poland will be increasingly involved in G20 fold. I believe that we, as the Polish Government, will actively strive to attain this goal in the coming years, and I also believe that we will be able to deliver: both in terms of domestic economic policy and foreign policy, to the best possible extent. I can only make one request to all sides of the political scene - we have such a politically intense year, because it is an election year. As I said: first, the elections to the European Parliament, soon, on 26 May, then there will be parliamentary elections. This is a time which is important in politics, which in entails great activity in politics. It also very often means time for a great debate. All I am asking for is that all sides of the political scene should have a constructive debate. We should speak with one voice on foreign affairs, which are important for Poland. It is important that no situations occur when Polish politicians slander Poland beyond its borders, or when talking to foreign media. It is an extremely painful situation for me, it goes beyond the framework of political debate, the debate that we could hold here, in our country, before our our voters and our citizens. I would ask you to show moderation in this respect, because Poland is developing very well now and this creates for us a great opportunity for further advancement in various international structures, which is extremely important and which should be of fundamental importance for everyone who really wants Poland to develop, who wants Poland to become an increasingly strong player in international dimension, who wants Poland to signify more in the world. We have to do our utmost not to undercut these aspirations, but to advance them. To create a synergy effect and act together, building the strongest possible position in Poland. It is not easy, because, as I have have insisted on many occasions before, Ladies and Gentlemen, there are no empty seats in the international space. Everything has been occupied for centuries. If someone is promoted, it always happens at the expense of others. Someone has to give way a little, someone has to move away a little in order for someone else to climb up the mountain. This entails costs. This always entails criticism, because it is an element of international competition; be it political competition, economic competition, or in any other area. That is the nature of life, that is the nature of democracy and that is the nature of the world. So don't be surprised that Poland is being criticised just as we have managed to achieve a extraordinary result in the UN Security Council vote. I will remind you: not a single vote against Poland, 190 votes in favour of Poland, which was in fact an absolutely phenomenal, long overlooked result. Criticised just as we have managed to achieve our ambitions when it comes to NATO's presence in our part of Europe - even though some countries have had their doubts about that. However, it was possible to overcome these doubts thanks to skilful diplomatic efforts. When we have higher-than-expected economic growth. When, indeed, our situation is also improving in comparison with that of some other European countries. And you can see it. And this gives us an increasingly strong position. I would request that nobody, especially in our country, should try to obstruct these works but rather join in. This means that you have to roll up your sleeves together and work for Poland, and not against Poland, not the way it sometimes evidently happens. Once again, I would like to emphasise my gratitude to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for a very efficient presentation of the recap of the last four years of Polish foreign policy, one could say, for showing in a systemic way that it is indeed a conscious policy, where one thing stems from the other and that certain actions are a consequence of those which have already been taken. I hope that we will continue to pursue this policy together. Once again, I urge that we should have a constructive, peaceful, good electoral campaign, first, the one preceding the European Parliament elections, and then before the general elections; so that these campaigns should further Polands position and serve to build democracy in Poland. The campaigns thanks to which we will take a step further in our development, and not ones which hold us back or provoke disgust, especially among the citizens and those who will be watching them. I also ask you to show moderation in the language used in this campaign. I am convinced that an election campaign can be conducted with due respect shown to political competitors. I am convinced that an election campaign can be conducted in a way that will speak well for the political culture in our country, demonstrating that the basic principles of democracy are already firmly rooted in us. Thank you very much! For the New World Order, a world government is just the beginning. Once in place they can engage their plan to exterminate 80% of the world's population, while enabling the "elites" to live forever with the aid of advanced technology. For the first time, crusading filmmaker ALEX JONES reveals their secret plan for humanity's extermination: Operation ENDGAME. Jones chronicles the history of the global elite's bloody rise to power and reveals how they have funded dictators and financed the bloodiest warscreating order out of chaos to pave the way for the first true world empire. Watch as Jones and his team track the elusive Bilderberg Group to Ottawa and Istanbul to document their secret summits, allowing you to witness global kingpins setting the world's agenda and instigating World War III. to Ottawa and Istanbul to document their secret summits, allowing you to witness global kingpins setting the world's agenda and instigating World War III. Learn about the formation of the North America transportation control grid, which will end U.S. sovereignty forever. Discover how the practitioners of the pseudo-science eugenics have taken control of governments worldwide as a means to carry out depopulation. View the progress of the coming collapse of the United States and the formation of the North American Union. Never before has a documentary assembled all the pieces of the globalists' dark agenda. Endgame's compelling look at past atrocities committed by those attempting to steer the future delivers information that the controlling media has meticulously censored for over 60 years. It fully reveals the elite's program to dominate the earth and carry out the wicked plan in all of human history. Endgame is not conspiracy theory, it is documented fact in the elite's own words. WASHINGTON, March 15, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Kids in Nevada will unite against tobacco use on March 20 as they join thousands of young people nationwide to mark Kick Butts Day, an annual day of youth activism sponsored by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. More than 1,000 events are planned across the United States (see below for a list of local events). This year, kids are focused on kicking Juul, the e-cigarette that has become enormously popular among youth across the country. While cigarette smoking among high school students nationwide has fallen to 8.1 percent, e-cigarette use among high schoolers rose by an alarming 78 percent in 2018 alone to 20.8 percent of the student population. In 2018, more than 3.6 million middle and high school students used e-cigarettes. U.S. public health leaders have called youth e-cigarette use an "epidemic" that is addicting a new generation of kids. In Nevada, 15.5 percent of high school students use e-cigarettes, while 6.7 percent smoke cigarettes. Tobacco use claims 4,100 lives in Nevada and costs the state $1.08 billion in health care bills each year. On Kick Butts Day, youth and health advocates are calling for strong action to reverse the youth e-cigarette epidemic. In particular, they are calling on the Food and Drug Administration, states and cities to ban all flavored tobacco products, including e-cigarettes in flavors like cotton candy, gummy bear and mango that tempt kids. Other effective strategies to reduce youth tobacco use include laws raising the tobacco sale age to 21, significant tobacco tax increases, comprehensive smoke-free laws and well-funded tobacco prevention programs. "This year on Kick Butts Day, we're challenging policy makers at every level to do their part to reverse the youth e-cigarette epidemic and continue driving down youth tobacco use," said Matthew L. Myers, President of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. "We cannot allow e-cigarettes, especially Juul, to addict another generation and reverse the enormous progress we've made in reducing youth tobacco use." Key facts about e-cigarettes include: The main cause of the youth e-cigarette epidemic is Juul, which looks like a computer flash drive, is small and easy to hide, delivers a powerful dose of nicotine, and comes in kid-friendly flavors like mango, fruit and mint. According to the manufacturer, each Juul "pod" (cartridge) delivers as much nicotine as a pack of 20 cigarettes. E-cigarettes pose serious health risks for kids. The U.S. Surgeon General has found that youth use of nicotine in any form including e-cigarettes is unsafe, causes addiction and can harm the developing adolescent brain, affecting learning, memory and attention. Studies also show that young people who use e-cigarettes are more likely to become cigarette smokers. On Kick Butts Day, youth join in creative events including signing pledges to be tobacco-free, learning about the harmful chemicals in tobacco products and organizing rallies at state capitols. In Nevada, activities include: Students from the Stand Tall team with Healthy Communities Coalition in Lyon County will create a prominent visual display about the dangers of tobacco use outside of the Healthy Communities office. Location: 209 Dayton Valley Road, Dayton. Contact: Alisha Moss (775) 220-1241. At Fernley High School, students will be chalking the sidewalk in front of and around the school to call attention to the adverse effects of and statistics about tobacco use. Time: 9:15 AM. Location: 1300 U.S. Highway 95a South, Fernley. Contact: Alisha Moss (775) 220-1241. All events will take place March 20 unless otherwise indicated. For a full list of Kick Butts Day activities in Nevada, visit www.kickbuttsday.org/map. Additional information about tobacco, including state-by-state statistics, can be found at www.tobaccofreekids.org. SOURCE Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids Related Links http://www.tobaccofreekids.org ANNVILLE, Pa., March 16, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, approximately 500 Pennsylvania National Guard (PNG) members assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment, participated in send-off ceremonies in Milton as they prepare to mobilize this spring for deployment to Poland as part of NATO's Enhanced Forward Presence mission. Governor Tom Wolf and Adjutant General Tony Carrelli thanked the troops and their families. "Thank you to the proud men and women of the Pennsylvania National Guard as they deploy to Poland," Governor Tom Wolf said. "We are proud of the work you do every day and will continue to support you and your families throughout this deployment." "I am proud of the men and women of the 3rd Squadron for their hard work and intense training in preparation for their deployment to Poland," said Maj. Gen. Tony Carrelli, Pennsylvania's adjutant general and head of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. "I have no doubt that our Allies and NATO leadership will be very impressed with our soldiers' dedication to this mission. I know I speak for all Pennsylvania citizens when I say, 'thank you' for the tremendous sacrifice you are about to make by leaving your families and civilian jobs to protect freedom and liberty throughout the world." The unit will lead Battle Group Poland, a multi-national task force comprised of soldiers from the U.S., the United Kingdom, Croatia, and Romania. They will travel to Texas to complete a culminating exercise and preparation for movement overseas. Upon completion, the 3rd Squadron will deploy to Poland. While in Poland, soldiers will support the interest of NATO allies and participate in a wide range of training exercises with NATO partners. The unit has been preparing for this mission for over a year. They completed many training events, including a rotation at the National Training Center at Ft. Irwin, CA, in summer 2018. The squadron headquarters and headquarters troop is located in Danville, PA, with subordinate Pennsylvania units in Williamsport (I Troop), Wellsboro (K Troop), Lewisburg (L Troop), and Lock Haven (H Troop/278th Regimental Support Squadron). Founded in 1747, the PNG is the third largest National Guard in the nation and is comprised of nearly 20,000 soldiers and airmen, who reside in every county across the commonwealth. The PNG is part of the DMVA's dual mission, which also includes supporting Pennsylvania's nearly 800,000 veterans. For more information about the DMVA, visit us online at www.dmva.pa.gov or follow us at www.facebook.com/padmva or www.twitter.com/padmva. MEDIA CONTACT: LTC Keith Hickox, 717-821-7486 SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Related Links http://www.dmva.state.pa.us ANNVILLE, Pa., March 16, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Maj. Gen. Tony Carrelli, Pennsylvania's Adjutant General and head of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, participated in a tree planting ceremony to honor fallen service members in the Philadelphia region. Attended by Gold and Blue Star families, the event was held at the Philadelphia Navy Yard. "Today's event is appropriately called 'Operation Legacy.' The trees we are planting will stand tall into the future and symbolize great stability, shelter, and security just like the memory and legacy of our fallen service members," said Carrelli. "We pledge to never forget the sacrifice made by those who have given their lives while protecting our freedom, nor will we ever forget the extreme sacrifice made by their families." Members of the Travis Manion Foundation, event organizer; Region III National Guard Youth Conference, hosted by the PA Army National Guard Child & Youth Program; the U.S. Army Survivor Outreach Services; Gold and Blue Star families; and numerous service members also took part in the ceremony. Immediately following the ceremony, the trees were planted in the area of the historic M Quarters Buildings on the Navy Yard. For more information about the DMVA, visit us online at www.dmva.pa.gov or follow us at www.facebook.com/padmva or www.twitter.com/padmva. MEDIA CONTACT: Joseph Butera, 717-861-2178 SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Related Links http://www.dmva.state.pa.us DUBLIN, March 15, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Strategic Development of Neural Stem and Progenitor Cell Products" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The growth of stem cell research has exploded over the past decades, and the market for neural stem cell and progenitor cell products is also expanding. Claim this 211-page global strategic report to reveal the current and future needs of the NSC marketplace, outmaneuver your competition, and approach investors with specific and technical knowledge of the global market for neural stem cell and progenitor cell products. Market Analysis While the number of adult stem cell therapies entering clinical trials continues to expand, the development of neural stem cell therapies has been affected by barriers to entry that include patent restrictions, the complexity of neural stem cell applications, and burden of undertaking costly clinical trials. Despite these limitations, dozens of companies are now pursuing preclinical and clinical programs utilizing neural stem and progenitor cells as therapeutic products. Pharmaceutical companies are demonstrating an interest in neural stem and progenitor cells. Because of their plasticity, ability to develop into the main phenotypes of the nervous system, and unlimited capacity for self-renewal, NSCs have been proposed for use in a variety of pharmaceutical applications, including: Neurotoxicity testing Cellular therapies to treat CNS conditions Neural tissue engineering and repair Drug target validation and testing Personalized medicine Utilization of neural stem cell products by the pharmaceutical sector represents a thriving segment of the overall NSC marketplace. Of interest to this community is the use of neural stem cells to heal tissues that have a naturally limited capacity for renewal, including the human brain and spinal cord. Development of new drugs is extremely costly and the success rate of bringing new compounds to the market is unpredictable. Therefore, it is crucial that pharmaceutical companies minimize late-stage product failures, including unexpected neurotoxic effects, that can arise when candidate drugs enter the clinical testing stages. It is desirable to test candidate drugs using in vitro assays of high human relevance as early as possible. Because neural stem cells have the potential to differentiate into nearly all the main phenotypes of the nervous system, they represent an ideal cell type from which to design such neural screening assays. The concept of stem cells as a potential cure for neurodegenerative diseases is not new. While neural stem cells (NSCs) have been explored for more than two decades for use in treating neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental diseases, recent progress with developing NSCs from human-induced pluripotent cells has accelerated interest in developing cell-based therapeutics to target neurodegenerative diseases. As safety and efficacy results having been obtained from preclinical and clinical tests performed in animal models, companies have moved onto human clinical trials using NSCs derived from different sources. For the first time in history, there are companies developing technologies to support the autologous generation of neural stem cells by direct cell reprogramming. Nearly one billion people in the aging population worldwide are affected by neurodegenerative diseases, there are no medications currently available to cure or stop the progression of these diseases. Available drugs can sometimes provide symptomatic relief, but they do not address the underlying disease, making alternative approaches badly needed. To date, researchers have successfully isolated, propagated, and characterized NSCs, and there are confirmed reports of neurogenesis of transplanted NSCs in the human brain. There has also been an upsurge in collaborative activities among pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, and start-up companies within the neurodegenerative market. Key Topics Covered 1. Report Overview 1.1 Statement of the Report 1.2 Executive Summary 2. Introduction 3. Stem Cells: A Brief Overview 3.1 Embryonic Stem Cells 3.2 Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells 3.3 Types of Specialized Cells Derived from Stem Cells 3.4 Types of Stem Cells in the Human Body 3.4.1 Human Embryonic Stem Cells 3.4.2 Embryonic Germ Cells 3.4.3 Fetal Stem Cells 3.4.4 Umbilical Cord Stem Cells 3.5 Adult Stem Cells 3.5.1 Hemotopoietic Stem Cells 3.5.2 Mesenchymal Stem Cells 3.5.3 Neural Stem Cells 3.6 Characteristics of Different Types of Stem Cells 4. Neural Stem Cells: An Overview 4.1 Sources of NSCs 4.2 Basal Properties of NSCs Obtained from Different Sources 4.2.1 BMSCs as a Source for NSC-Like Cells 4.2.2 UCBSCs: Express Pro-Neural Genes and Neural Markers 4.2.3 ESCs as a Source for NSCs 4.2.4 iPSCs as a Source of NSCs 4.2.4.1 Methods Used to Produce iPSCs 4.2.4.2 Chemicals Used for Neural Differentiation of iPSCs 4.2.4.3 Small-Molecule-Based Culture Protocols for Inducing hPSCs Differentiation 4.2.4.4 Compounds Used for NSC Proliferation 4.2.4.5 Sythetic Compounds Used to Induce NSC Differentiation into Neurons 4.2.4.6 Natural Products Affecting NSC Survival, Proliferation, and Differentiation 4.3 Fetal Stem Cell Transplantation for Neurodegenerative Diseases 4.4 Adult Human Neural Stem Therapeutics 5. Degenerative Diseases With Possible Cure Using NSCS 5.1 Conventional Treatments for Neurodegenerative Diseases 5.2 NSC-Based and Traditional Approaches for Neurodenerative Diseases 5.3 The Wide Gap Between Theory and Practice in NSC Applications 5.4 Types of NSCs Used for Cell Therapy Approaches 5.4.1 Fetal and Adult-Derived NSCs 5.4.2 NSCs from Pluripotent Stem Cells 5.5 Possible Therapeutic Actions of Grafted NSCs in Neurodegenerative Diseases 5.6 Most Recent Clinical Trials Using NSCs for Neurological Disorders 5.6.1 Possible Outcome of Clinical Trials 5.7 Other Clinical Trials Using NSCs for Neurodegenerative Diseases 5.8 Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Cell Therapy 5.8.1 Clinical Trials for Neurodevelopmental Disorders 6. Spinal Cord Injury and Cell Therapy 6.1 Incidence of Spinal Cord Injury 6.2 Neurological Level and Extent of Lesion in Spinal Cord Injuries 6.3 Annual and Lifetime Cost of Treating SCI Patients in the US 6.4 Medications and Other Treatments for Spinal Cord Injury 6.5 CIRM Funding for Spinal Cord Injury 6.6 Cell Therapy for Spinal Cord Injury 6.6.1 Studies in Animal Models of Cell Therapy for SCI 6.6.1.1 Preclinical Trials Using MSCs for SCI 6.6.1.2 Preclinical Trials Using NPCs for SCI 6.6.1.3 Preclinical Studies Using Olfactory Ensheathing Cells for SCI 6.6.1.4 Preclinical Studies Using SCs for SCI 6.7 SCI Models and Effectiveness of Neuronal Regeneration 6.8 Clinical Trials Using Stem Cells for Spinal Cord Injury 7. Alzheimer's Disease 7.1 Incidence of Alzheimer's Disease 7.2 Projected Number of People Aged 65 and Older with Alzheimer's Disease in the US 7.3 Cost of Care by Payment Source for US Alzheimer's Patients 7.3.1 Total Cost of Health Care, Long-Term Care, and Hospice for US AD Patients 7.4 Currently Available Medications for Alzheimer's Disease 7.5 CIRM Funding for Alzheimer's Research 7.6 Transplantation of Stem Cells for AD 7.6.1 Gene Therapy for AD 8. Parkinson's Disease 8.1 Incidence of Parkinson's Disease 8.2 CIRM Grants Targeting Parkinson's Disease 8.3 Current Medications for PD 8.4 Potential for Cell Therapy in Parkinson's Disease 8.5 Gene Therapy for PD 9. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis 9.1 Incidence of ALS 9.2 Symptomatic Treatments in ALS Patients 9.3 CIRM Grants Targeting ALS 9.4 Companies Focusing on Stem Cell Therapy for ALS 9.5 Cell Therapy for ALS 10. Multiple Sclerosis 10.1 Incidence of MS 10.2 Medications for MS 10.3 Neural Stem Cells' Application in Multiple Sclerosis 10.4 Stimulation of Endogenous NSCs with Growth Factors for MS Treatment 10.5 CIRM Grants Targeting MS 11. Stroke 11.1 Incidence of Stroke 11.2 Currently Available Medication for Stroke 11.3 Stem Cell-Based Therapies for Stroke 11.4 Various Stem Cell Types Used in Stroke Experimental Studies 11.5 Ongoing Clinical Trials for Stroke Using Stem Cells 11.6 CIRM Grants Targeting Stroke 12. Market Analysis 12.1 Current Stem Cell Landscape 12.1.1 Number of Stem Cell Product Candidates 12.1.2 Commercial Stem Cell Therapy Development by Geography 12.1.3 Commercially Attractive Therapeutic Areas 12.1.4 Major Companies Investing in Stem Cell Industry 12.1.5 Venturing of Big Pharma into Stem Cell Therapy Sector 12.2 Major Clinical Milestones in Cell Therapy Sector 12.2.1 TiGenics' Cx601 12.2.2 Mesoblast Ltd. and JCR Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. 12.2.3 Chiesi's Holocar 12.2.4 ReNeuron's Retinitis Pigmentosa Cell Therapy Candidate 12.2.5 Orphan Drug Designation to Pluristem's PLX-PAD Cells 12.3 Major Anticipated Cell Therapy Clinical Data Events 12.4 Global Market for Cell Therapy Products 12.4.1 Global Market for Neural Stem Cells 13. Selected Company Profiles 13.1 Asterias Biotherapeutics, Inc. 13.1.1 AST-OPC1 13.2 Athersys Inc 13.2.1 MultiStem Programs 13.2.2 Ischemic Stroke 13.2.3 Clinical Programs (Stroke Phase II) 13.3 Ncardia (Formed by Merger of Axiogenesis AG / Pluriomics 13.3.1 Peri.4U - Human iPS Cell-Derived Peripheral Neurons 13.3.2 Dopa.4U - Human iPS Cell-Derived Dopaminergic Neurons 13.3.3 CNS.4U - Human iPS Cell-Derived Central Nervous System Cells 13.3.4 Astro.4U - Human iPS Cell-Derived Astrocytes 13.4 Axol Bioscience 13.4.1 Cortical Neural Stem Cells 13.4.2 Cerebral Cortical Neurons 13.4.3 Sensory Neural Progenitors 13.4.4 Motor Neuron Progenitors 13.4.5 iPSC-derived Microglia 13.5 BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics 13.5.1 NurOwn in the Clinic 13.6 Cellular Dynamics International, Inc. 13.6.1 iCell Neurons 13.6.2 iCell Astrocytes 13.6.3 iCell DopaNeurons 13.7 Celther Polska 13.7.1 Cell Lines 13.8 Cellartis AB 13.8.1 hESC-Derived Mesenchymal Progenitor Cells 13.8.2 Human Neural Stem Cells 13.8.3 Culture System for iPSC 13.9 CellCure Neurosciences Ltd. 13.9.1 Technology 13.9.2 New Candidate Treatment for Retinal Diseases 13.10 Celvive, Inc. 13.10.1 Spinal Cord Injury 13.10.2 Research and Development 13.11 Merck Millipore 13.11.1 Human Neural Stem Lines 13.12 International Stem Cell Corporation 13.12.1 Neural Stem Cells 13.13 Kadimastem Ltd. 13.13.1 Drug Discovery for Neural Diseases 13.13.2 Human Oligodendrocyte Drug-Screening Assays 13.14 Living Cell Technologies Limited 13.14.1 NTCELL 13.15 MEDIPOST 13.15.1 NEUROSTEM 13.16 Neuralstem Inc. 13.16.1 NSI-566 for ALS 13.16.2 NSI-566 for SCI 13.16.3 NSI-566 for Ischemic Stroke 13.17 NeuroGeneration Inc. 13.17.1 Drug Discovery 13.17.2 Biotherapeutics 13.18 Neurona Therapeutics Inc. 13.18.1 Technology 13.19 Ocata Therapeutics Inc. (Acquired by Astellas Pharma for $379M in Nov. 2015) 13.19.1 Focus on Neuroscience 13.20 Opexa Therapeutics, Inc 13.20.1 Tcelna 13.20.2 OPX-212 13.20.3 Abili-T Clinical Study 13.21 ReNeuron Group PLC 13.21.1 Products and Technologies 13.21.2 Human Retinal Progenitor Cells 13.21.3 Exosome Platform 13.21.4 ReNcell Products 13.22 RhinoCyte, Inc. 13.22.1 Research 13.23 Roslin Cells Ltd. 13.23.1 Custom iPSC Generation 13.24 SanBio, Inc. 13.24.1 SB623 13.24.2 SB618 13.25 Saneron CCEL Therapeutics Inc. 13.25.1 U-CORD-CELL Program 13.25.2 SERT-CELL Program 13.26 StemCells, Inc. 13.26.1 Clinical Programs 13.26.2 HuCNS-SC (human neural stem cells) 13.26.3 Proof of Concept 13.26.4 Proof of Safety and Initial Efficacy 13.26.5 Spinal Cord Injury 13.26.6 Age-Related Macular Degeneration 13.26.7 Pelizaeus-Merzbacher Disease 13.26.8 Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis 13.27 Stemedica Cell Technologies, Inc. 13.27.1 Technology 13.27.2 Products 13.27.2.1 Stemedyne-MSC 13.27.2.2 Stemedyne-NSC 13.27.2.3 Stemedyne-RPE 13.28 STEMCELL Technologies, Inc. 13.28.1 Cell Culture Media for NSC and Progenitor Cells 13.29 Talisman Therapeutics Ltd. 13.30 Xcelthera Inc 13.30.1 Technology Platforms 13.30.2 PluriXcel-DCS Technology 13.30.3 PluriXcel-SMI Technology 13.30.4 PlunXcel-SMI Neuron Technology 13.30.5 PluriXcel-SMI Heart Technology 13.30.6 Products 13.30.6.1 Xcel-hNuP 13.30.6.2 Xcel-hNu 13.30.6.3 Xcel-hCardP 13.30.6.4 Xcel-hcM For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/7rwbdc/neural_stem_and?w=5 Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-171 SOURCE Research and Markets Related Links http://www.researchandmarkets.com NEW ORLEANS, March 15, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., Esq., a partner at the law firm of Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF"), announces that KSF has commenced an investigation into NiSource Inc. (NYSE: NI). On September 13, 2018, numerous gas explosions destroyed dozens of homes and businesses in Massachusetts, causing one death, dozens of injuries, and the forced relocation of approximately 8,600 households, which investigators determined was caused by over-pressurization of a gas main belonging to Columbia Gas of Massachusetts, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NiSource. On November 1, 2018, the Company disclosed that it was "subject to a criminal investigation" by the Massachusetts U.S. Attorney's Office and had been served with grand jury subpoenas. Recently, the Company disclosed that it is under investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission relating to its financial disclosures prior to the explosions. The Company's actions, directed by its executives, have exposed it to significant litigation including a class action lawsuit brought by the victims of the explosions for failing to properly and safely maintain its gas distribution system, as well as the cost of defending the Company against government investigations and the penalties, fines and other liabilities and expenses associated with those investigations. KSF's investigation is focusing on whether NiSource's officers and/or directors breached their fiduciary duties to NiSource's shareholders or otherwise violated state or federal laws. If you have information that would assist KSF in its investigation, or have been a long-term holder of NiSource shares and would like to discuss your legal rights, you may, without obligation or cost to you, call toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or email KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn ([email protected]), or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-ni/ to learn more. About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC KSF, whose partners include the Former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is a law firm focused on securities, antitrust and consumer class actions, along with merger & acquisition and breach of fiduciary litigation against publicly traded companies on behalf of shareholders. The firm has offices in New York, California and Louisiana. To learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com. Contact: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC Lewis Kahn, Managing Partner [email protected] 1-877-515-1850 1100 Poydras St., Suite 3200 New Orleans, LA 70163 SOURCE Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC Related Links http://www.ksfcounsel.com EAST HANOVER, N.J., March 16, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Novartis announced today new results from a 4-week extension of the landmark PIONEER-HF trial, presented as a late-breaker at the American College of Cardiology's 68th Annual Scientific Session. Data from the 8-week double-blind PIONEER-HF trial, first presented in November 2018 at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions, showed the benefits of in-hospital initiation in appropriate stabilized patients of Entresto tablets on a systolic heart failure (HF) biomarker, safety and clinical outcome.2 All patients received open-label Entresto during the 4-week extension period, and data showed reductions in both groups in the HF biomarker N-terminal proB-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) with use of Entresto, which was safe and well tolerated.1 Patients in the control group who were treated during the initial 8-week double-blind period with a HF therapy, enalapril, showed a substantial reduction in NT-proBNP when switched to Entresto for the open-label period.1 Further, patients who started on Entresto in the hospital had a greater overall reduction in NT-proBNP after 12 weeks, compared with patients started on enalapril in the hospital and switched to Entresto at the 8-week mark.1 In addition, the greater improvement in a pre-specified, exploratory post-discharge outcome at 8 weeks with Entresto was maintained throughout 12 weeks, suggesting that initiating Entresto after stabilization following an acute systolic HF admission may result in a reduction in a composite of serious clinical events.1,2 The serious clinical composite occurred in a lower percentage of patients who initiated Entresto in the hospital compared with those who initiated enalapril in the hospital and switched to Entresto after 8 weeks post-discharge.1 The composite, which was explored as part of a pre-specified exploratory analysis, consisted of death, re-hospitalization for HF (hospital stay >24 hours), requirement for a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) insertion, or listing for a cardiac transplantation.1 "The evidence generated through the Entresto clinical trial program, which includes PIONEER-HF, TRANSITION-HF and PARADIGM-HF, contributes to the reimagining of heart failure treatment," said Marcia Kayath, MD, Head, U.S. Medical Affairs, Novartis Pharmaceuticals. "Data from this 4-week extension of PIONEER-HF clearly support Entresto as a first-choice treatment upon systolic heart failure diagnosis or worsening of symptoms and underscore the importance of initiating Entresto in the hospital." Patients with systolic HF who need to be admitted to the hospital due to decompensation of their disease are at high short-term risk of death or being re-admitted to the hospital.3,4 PIONEER-HF showed that Entresto can be initiated in the hospital in these patients safely, once they have been stabilized, with a tolerability profile comparable to enalapril.2 The safety profile in PIONEER-HF was similar to that seen in the pivotal PARADIGM-HF trial.2,5 Rates of symptomatic hypotension (low blood pressure), hyperkalemia (elevated levels of potassium) or worsening renal (kidney) function were similar among treatment groups and there was a numerically lower incidence of angioedema in patients treated with Entresto.2 There were no new safety signals identified during the 4-week extension of PIONEER-HF.1 "This extension of the landmark PIONEER-HF study further demonstrates that starting appropriate patients on Entresto in the hospital is safe and provides important clinical benefit compared to starting patients on enalapril. We now know that initiating Entresto in the hospital, instead of waiting to switch post-discharge, can improve outcomes and can keep more of an especially vulnerable patient population out of the hospital longer," said Eugene Braunwald, MD, Founding Chairman, TIMI Study Group, Brigham & Women's Hospital; Distinguished Hershey Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; and Chariman, PIONEER-HF. Entresto is indicated to reduce the risk of cardiovascular (CV) death or HF hospitalization in patients with chronic heart failure (NYHA Class II-IV) and reduced ejection fraction.6 About the PIONEER-HF 4-Week Extension Study Of 881 systolic heart failure patients enrolled in PIONEER-HF, 832 (94%) continued into the 4-week open-label study after the 8-week initial study period, with 415 (50%) switched from enalapril to Entresto and 417 (50%) continued on Entresto at the time of the open-label extension.1 All patients had been admitted for acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) and started on study drug following stabilization, while still hospitalized.1 The objectives were to describe changes in NT-proBNP by randomized treatment arm and to collect further safety and exploratory clinical data in both groups.1 Change in NT-proBNP from week 8 to week 12 was -18.5%, (95% CI: -11.8, -24.7) in patients who had been on Entresto during the original 8-week study period and remained on Entresto for the 4-week extension and -35.8% (95% CI: -30.6, -40.7) in patients who had been given enalapril during the original 8-week study period and then switched to Entresto for 4 weeks.1 In the 8-week double-blind period, as previously reported, from baseline to weeks 4 and 8, the time-averaged ratio of change was 0.71 (95% CI: 0.63, 0.81; p<0.001) in the group treated with Entresto compared to the group treated with enalapril.2 Safety and tolerability analyses found during weeks 8-12: Similar levels of symptomatic hypotension in both arms: 2.9% for patients who were on Entresto for the first 8 weeks and continued on Entresto for the last 4 weeks compared to 3.9% for patients randomized to enalapril and then switched to Entresto for the last 4 weeks (RR 0.75; 95% CI:0.36, 1.56). 1 Hyperkalemia was comparable between the two groups: 2.4% for patients who were on Entresto for the first 8 weeks and continued on Entresto for the last 4 weeks compared to 4.1% for patients randomized to enalapril and then switched to Entresto for the last 4 weeks (RR: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.27, 1.26) 1 Worsening renal function was comparable between the two groups: 8.6% for patients who were on Entresto for the first 8 weeks and continued on Entresto for the last 4 weeks compared to 9.6% for patients randomized to enalapril and then switched to Entresto for the last 4 weeks (RR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.58, 1.37). 1 There were no additional angioedema events in either arm. 1 56.8% of patients in the study were receiving the highest approved dose of Entresto and 75.2% were receiving at least the middle dose recommended in the package insert by 12 weeks.1 Over the 12-week study, in total, there was a 33% relative risk reduction (95% CI: 0.48, 0.94) in the serious clinical composite event endpoint in the patients treated and maintained with Entresto compared to those patients started on enalapril and then switched to Entresto for the 4-week open-label phase.1 The absolute risk reduction was 5.64%.1 During the initial 8-week period, the serious clinical composite endpoint reduction was known to have been driven by a reduction in HF hospitalization and death.2 About the PIONEER-HF Trial PIONEER-HF is a prospective, multicenter, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial designed to assess the safety, tolerability and efficacy of in-hospital initiation of Entresto compared with enalapril in appropriate, stable HFrEF patients who had been admitted for acute decompensation.2,7 The study enrolled patients 18 years of age and older with ejection fraction (EF) 40% and an elevated amino terminal-pro b-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) 1600 pg/mL or B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) 400 pg/mL, irrespective of both duration of diagnosis or treatment with angiotensin converting-enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) and/or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB).2,7 A total of 881 patients, with an average age of 61 years, were randomly assigned to in-hospital initiation of Entresto or enalapril twice daily, following stabilization.2,7 Patients were eligible for screening no earlier than 24 hours and up to 10 days from initial presentation while still hospitalized.2,7 All patients were treated with the objective to optimize therapy to the maximum tolerated dose based on an SBP-based algorithm.2,7 Patients were predominantly male (approximately 72%), and half of patients had a BMI>30 kg/m2.2,7 Notably, more than one-third of patients (36%) were African American.2,7 Approximately 34% of patients were newly diagnosed, having no prior history of heart failure, and slightly more than 50% of patients were not receiving ACEi/ARB therapy at the time of admission.2,7 The primary endpoint was the time-averaged proportional change in NT-proBNP from baseline through weeks 4 and 8.2,7 Patients treated with Entresto achieved a 47% reduction from baseline in time-averaged NT-proBNP, compared to a 25% reduction with enalapril, translating into a statistically significant 29% greater reduction with Entresto over the ACE inhibitor (95% CI: 0.63, 0.81; P<0.0001).2 Reductions in NT-proBNP were observed in Entresto patients as early as 1 week after treatment initiation.2 Rates of serious adverse events occurring with a frequency of 0.5% were similar between the Entresto and enalapril groups.2 Safety and tolerability analyses found during the double-blind period: Similar levels of symptomatic hypotension in both arms (enalapril 12.7%, Entresto 15.0%; RR: 1.18; 95% CI: 0.85, 1.64). Low BP-related AEs were similar between the groups. 2 Hyperkalemia was comparable between the two groups (enalapril 9.3% vs. Entresto 11.6% RR: 1.25; 95% CI: 0.84, 1.84). 2 Kidney-related AEs between the groups were similar (enalapril n= 75, Entresto n=75, RR: 1.00; CI: 0.75, 1.34). 2 There were 6 (1.4%) adjudicated cases of angioedema in the enalapril arm (all in African Americans) versus 1 (0.2%) with Entresto (in a Caucasian patient) (RR: 0.17; CI: 0.02, 1.38). 2 Nearly 60% of patients were able to be up-titrated to the highest approved dose of Entresto within 6 weeks.2 In a pre-specified exploratory analysis, the composite endpoint of death, re-hospitalization for HF, requirement for a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) insertion, or listing for cardiac transplant occurred in 41 (9.3%) patients in the Entresto group and 74 (16.8%) in the enalapril group (hazard ratio [HR] 0.54, 95% CI 0.370.79) during the double-blind period.2 The benefit was driven by reductions in death and re-hospitalization among patients treated with Entresto.2 About Heart Failure and Hospitalization Heart failure (HF) is a chronic and progressive condition, which impacts 6.2 million Americans and is the leading cause of hospitalization among Americans over the age of 65.8,9 Rates of heart failure in America are increasing, despite significant medical advances.10 It is expected that by 2030 more than 8 million people will have this condition.10 About half of people with HF have heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), also known as systolic HF.11,12 Reduced ejection fraction means the heart does not contract with enough force, so less blood is pumped out.13 HF presents a major and growing health-economic burden that currently exceeds $30 billion in the United States, which accounts for both direct and indirect costs.10 HF accounts for ~900,000 hospitalizations annually in the U.S., approximately 2 hospitalizations every minute.8 Eighty-three percent of HF patients are hospitalized due to an acute HF episode at least once, and nearly half (43%) are hospitalized at least four times.11 Outlook for patients in first 30 days following hospitalization is poor, with one in four re-admitted during this vulnerable period and up to 10% likely to die.3,4 On average, a HF patient remains in hospital for five to 10 days.14 Novartis has established the largest global clinical program in the HF disease area across the pharma industry to date. Known as FortiHFy, it is comprised of more than 40 active or planned clinical studies designed to generate an array of additional data on symptom reduction, efficacy, quality of life benefits and real-world evidence with Entresto, as well as to extend understanding of heart failure. About Entresto Entresto is a prescription medicine used to reduce the risk of CV death and HF hospitalization in people with certain types of long-lasting (chronic) heart failure.6 Entresto is usually used with other heart failure therapies, in place of an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor or other angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) therapy.6 Entresto is a twice-a-day prescription medicine that reduces the strain on the failing heart.6,15 It does this by enhancing the beneficial neurohormonal systems (natriuretic peptide system) while simultaneously inhibiting the harmful effects of the overactive renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS).6,15 Most other heart failure medicines only block the harmful effects of the overactive RAAS. Entresto contains the neprilysin inhibitor sacubitril and the angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) valsartan.6 Entresto film-coated tablets are available in three dosage strengths: 24/26 mg, 49/51 mg, and 97/103 mg (sacubitril/valsartan).6 These doses are referred to as 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg in the clinical trial literature including The New England Journal of Medicine publication of the results of PARADIGM-HF.5 The target maintenance dose of Entresto is 97/103 mg twice daily.6 About NT-proBNP NT-proBNP is a biomarker commonly used to assess the severity and determine the prognosis of heart failure.16 Levels of NT-proBNP increase when heart muscle cells are subjected to stress (such as stretching) that occurs in people with heart failure.16 Studies suggest that HF patients with elevated NT-proBNP are at an increased risk of CV death or HF hospitalization and that reducing levels of NT-proBNP in people with heart failure is associated with a lower risk of these negative clinical outcomes.16 Entresto was also shown to reduce plasma NT-proBNP compared with enalapril in the PIONEER-HF and PARADIGM-HF trials.1,5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION Entresto can harm or cause death to an unborn baby. Patients should talk to their doctor about other ways to treat heart failure if they plan to become pregnant. If a patient gets pregnant while taking Entresto, she should tell her doctor right away. Patients are not to take Entresto if they are allergic to sacubitril or valsartan or any of the ingredients in Entresto; have had an allergic reaction including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat or trouble breathing while taking a type of medicine called an ACE inhibitor or ARB; or take an ACE inhibitor medicine. Patients are not to take Entresto for at least 36 hours before or after they take an ACE inhibitor medicine. Patients should talk with their doctor or pharmacist before taking Entresto if they are not sure if they take an ACE inhibitor medicine. Patients are not to take Entresto if they have diabetes and take a medicine that contains aliskiren. Before they take Entresto, patients should tell their doctor about all of their medical conditions, including if they have kidney or liver problems; or a history of hereditary angioedema; are pregnant or plan to become pregnant; are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Patients should either take Entresto or breastfeed. They should not do both. Patients should tell their doctor about all the medicines they take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. They should especially tell their doctor if they take potassium supplements or a salt substitute; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); lithium; or other medicines for high blood pressure or heart problems such as an ACE inhibitor, ARB, or aliskiren. Entresto may cause serious side effects including serious allergic reactions causing swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat (angioedema) that may cause trouble breathing and death. Patients are to get emergency medical help right away if they have symptoms of angioedema or trouble breathing. Patients are not to take Entresto again if they have had angioedema while taking Entresto. People who are black or who have had angioedema may have a higher risk of having angioedema if they take Entresto. Entresto may cause low blood pressure (hypotension). Patients are to call their doctor if they become dizzy or lightheaded, or they develop extreme fatigue. Entresto may cause kidney problems or an increased amount of potassium in the blood. The most common side effects were low blood pressure, high potassium, cough, dizziness, and kidney problems. Please see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNING available at http://www.pharma.us.novartis.com/product/pi/pdf/entresto.pdf. Patients are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Novartis is committed to providing patients with affordable access and resources through Entresto Central. For more information, please call 1-888-ENTRESTO or visit www.entresto.com. 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," "can," "will," "plan," "expect," "anticipate," "look forward," "believe," "committed," "investigational," "pipeline," "launch," 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. 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. Nor can there be any guarantee that such products will be commercially successful in the future. In particular, our expectations regarding such products 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 AG's 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 Novartis Novartis is reimagining medicine to improve and extend people's lives. As a leading global medicines company, we use innovative science and digital technologies to create transformative treatments in areas of great medical need. In our quest to find new medicines, we consistently rank among the world's top companies investing in research and development. Novartis products reach more than 800 million people globally and we are finding innovative ways to expand access to our latest treatments. About 130 000 people of nearly 150 nationalities work at Novartis around the world. Find out more at www.novartis.com. Novartis is on Twitter. Sign up to follow @Novartis at http://twitter.com/novartis For Novartis multimedia content, please visit www.novartis.com/news/media-library For questions about the site or required registration, please contact [email protected] References 1. DeVore A, Braunwald E, Morrow D, et al. Initiation of Angiotensin-Neprilysin Inhibition after Acute Decompensated Heart Failure: Results of the Open-Label Extension of the PIONEER-HF Trial. Data presented at: American College of Cardiology's 68th Annual Scientific Session, March 16-18; New Orleans, United States. 2. Velazquez E, Morrow D, DeVore, A, et al. Angiotensin-Neprilysin Inhibition in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure. N Engl J Med. 2019;380:539-548 doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1812851. 3. Dharmarajan K, Hsieh A, Lin Z, et al. Diagnoses and Timing of 30-Day Readmissions after Hospitalization For Heart Failure, Acute Myocardial Infarction, or Pneumonia. JAMA. 2013;309(4):355-363. doi:10.1001/jama.2012.216476. 4. Bueno H, Ross J, Wang Y, et al. Trends in Length of Stay and Short-Term Outcomes among Medicare Patients Hospitalized for Heart Failure: 1993-2008. JAMA. 2010;303(21):2141-2147. doi: 10.1001/jama.2010.748. 5. McMurray J, Packer M, Desai A, et al. Angiotensin-neprilysin inhibition versus enalapril in heart failure. N Engl J Med. 2014;371:993-1004. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1409077. 6. ENTRESTO [prescribing information]. East Hanover, NJ: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp; November 2018. 7. Velazquez E, Morrow D, DeVore, A, et al. Rationale and design of the comparison of sacubitril/valsartan versus Enalapril on Effect on nt-pRo-bnp in patients stabilized from an acute Heart Failure episode (PIONEER-HF) trial. Am Heart J. 2018 Apr;198:145-151. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ahj.2018.01.004. 8. Benjamin E, Muntner P, Alonso A, et al. Heart disease and stroke statistics2019 update: a report from the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2019;139:e56e66. doi: https://doi.org/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000659. 9. Weir L, Pfuntner A, Maeda J, et al. HCUP facts and figures: statistics on hospital-based care in the United States, 2009. Rockville, MD: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, 2011. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK91984/ (link is external). Accessed March 1, 2019. 10. Heidenreich PA, Albert NM, Allen LA, et al. Forecasting the impact of heart failure in the United States: a policy statement from the American Heart Association. Circ Heart Fail. 2013;6:606-619. doi: 10.1161/HHF.0b013e318291329a. 11. Yancy C, Jessup M, Bozkurt B, et al. 2013 ACCF/AHA guideline for the management of heart failure: A report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association task force on practice guidelines. Circulation. 2013;128:e240-e327. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2013.05.019. 12. Owan T, Hodge D, Herges R, et al. Trends in prevalence and outcome of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. N Engl J Med. 2006;355:251-259. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa052256. 13. Ejection Fraction Heart Failure Measurement. American Heart Association Website. http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/HeartFailure/SymptomsDiagnosisofHeartFailure/Ejection-Fraction-Heart-Failure-Measurement_UCM_306339_Article.jsp (link is external). Published March 24, 2015. Accessed November 1, 2018. 14. Ponikowski P, Anker S, AlHabib K, et al. Heart failure: preventing disease and death worldwide. ESC Heart Failure. 2014;1:425. doi:10.1002/ehf2.12005. 15. Langenickel T, Dole W. Angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibition with LCZ696: a novel approach for the treatment of heart failure. Drug Discov Today. 2012:4: e131-139. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ddstr.2013.11.002. 16. Ndumele C, Matsushita K, Sang, Y, et al. NT-proBNP and Heart Failure Risk Among Individuals With and Without Obesity: The ARIC Study. Circulation. 2016; 133:631-638. doi: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.115.017298. Novartis Media Relations Central media line: +41 61 324 2200 E-mail: [email protected] Eric Althoff Novartis Global Media Relations +41 61 324 7999 (direct) +41 79 593 4202 (mobile) [email protected] Phil McNamara Novartis US Pharma Communications +1 862 778 0218 (direct) +1 862 274 5255 (mobile) [email protected] Novartis Investor Relations Central investor relations line: +41 61 324 7944 E-mail: i [email protected] Central North America Samir Shah +41 61 324 7944 Richard Pulik +1 212 830 2448 Pierre-Michel Bringer +41 61 324 1065 Cory Twining +1 212 830 2417 Thomas Hungerbuehler +41 61 324 8425 Isabella Zinck +41 61 324 7188 SOURCE Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation Related Links http://www.pharma.us.novartis.com Sydney, March 15 : Focussing on the science behind what makes some start-ups thrive and others fail, Australian researchers have unveiled a new lab that will use cutting edge neuroscience to advise how businesses can thrive in a world of constant technological change. Sydney, March 15 (IANS) Focussing on the science behind what makes some start-ups thrive and layers come, sometimes it is noticeable that they do not believe that they are at that locker, but it is when you arrive at that club that everything starts," the Brazilian defender said. Marcelo is Madrid's second longest serving player following Ramos. During his time at the capital squad, Madrid has won four La Ligas, two Copa del Rey cups, three Spanish Super Cups, four UEFA Champions League titles, three Europe Super Cups and four FIFA Club World titles. The capital team celebrates its titles with fans at the Fuente de Cibeles square located in central Madrid where the team's first captain traditionally puts a Madrid scarf around the neck of the statue of the goddess Cybele. In recent years, as the two captains have become close friends, Ramos has welcomed Marcelo up to the statue side to co-tie the scarf around Cybele's neck. Washington, March 16 : US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that Washington is still hopeful for continued talks with Pyongyang. "We are hopeful that we can continue to have conversation, negotiations," Pompeo told reporters at a press conference held at the State Department on Friday. He confirmed that there is ongoing negotiation between the two sides, but refused to give the details, Xinhua reported. Pompeo said that he and his counterpart of North Korea had "very professional conversations" and he has "every expectation that we'll be able to continue to do that." Pompeo's remarks came hours after Pyongyang blamed the US side for the failure of the recent summit between the North Korea's top leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump. After ending the summit in Hanoi on February 28 without reaching an agreement, Trump told a press conference that there was "a gap" in what the North Korea and the United States were pursuing. According to Trump, Kim demanded relief from sanctions against Pyongyang "in their entirety" in exchange for denuclearising a "large portion" of the North Korea's nuclear program, something the United States could not agree to. Dismissing Trump's claim, North Korea Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho has said that North Korea only proposed partial removal of the sanctions, wanting those impeding the livelihood of their people to be removed first. Kolkata, March 16 : Welcoming the Supreme Court's verdict on his film "Bhobishyoter Bhoot" (Ghosts of the Future), filmmaker Anik Dutta on Friday said everyone should know that Bengal's administrative head's portrayal of democracy is absolutely grandstanding. The apex court on Friday directed the government of West Bengal and its departments, including the Department of Home Affairs, and the Kolkata Police Commissioner to refrain from causing any obstruction to the unhindered exhibition of the film that was mysteriously taken off most theatres and multiplexes in the state a day after its release. "The head of the state's administration is quite a fascist leader and tries to project that she champions democracy, but that is absolute grandstanding," Dutta said without naming West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. "Bhobishyoter Bhoot", a political satire, released on February 15 but it was taken off the screens the next day by the hall owners allegedly due to the instructions from the "higher authority". "I think freedom of speech is a very basic thing which must not be violated. Also, something like this has never happened before in the whole country and people should get to know what is going on in Bengal," Dutta said. The filmmaker said the judiciary upholding the right to freedom of speech and expression is a sign of victory and he was happy that the constant protests bore good results. "The field of performing arts and almost the entire film industry in the state is controlled by the ruling party. The stars are seen walking in their rallies," he said. "The film has already lost on huge revenues in the first two weeks. Now the film's producer will take care of the whole process and the steps for screening the film again," he said. Asked about his opinion on the ruling Trinamool Congress' decision to field two young Bengali actresses -- Nusrat Jahan and Mimi Chakraborty -- in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Dutta said, "It is so ridiculous for me to even comment. I don't know them personally but as they are from my fraternity, I wish them luck." Lucknow, March 16 : With less than a month to go for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Congress General Secretary and eastern Uttar Pradesh in-charge Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will kick off a three-day poll campaign from her great grandfather Jawaharlal Nehru's birthplace Prayagraj to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's parliamentary constituency Varanasi by a steamer on March 18. According to Congress leaders, during her three-day programme, she will cover a distance of over 140 km through four districts of the state -- Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), Bhadohi, Mirzapur and Varanasi -- by steamer as well as car. Priyanka's journey will commence from Prayagraj on Monday and conclude at Varanasi's Assi Ghat and Dashashwamedh ghat on Wednesday evening. She will take the steamer ride from Chhatnag in Prayagraj on March 18 and en route meet elderly citizens of Dumduma in Prayagraj and the family members of Mahesh Raj Yadav, who was killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on February 14 in a suicide bombing. Priyanka Gandhi, who is considered as second most important face in Congress after her brother and party President Rahul Gandhi, will be back to her steamer ride from Rampur ghat in Bhadohi. From there, she will also visit Vindhyachal temple in Mirzapur and meet the carpet weavers before a night halt there. She will commence her journey on Tuesday from Vindhyachal and visit the Dargah of Maulana Ismail Chisti in Bhadohi's Kantit area and interact with people there. The Congress leader will then again be back to steamer ride from Mirzapur. She will interact with advocates at Kachahri Ghat in the district and then visit Bhatauli village and meet people there. Thereafter, the newly-appointed General Secretary will reach Chandrika Devi temple and interact with people after offering her prayers there. After leaving Chandrika Devi temple, Priyanka will reach Devri in Mirzapur and interact with local villagers there before arriving at Chunar for the night halt. In the last leg of her three-day journey on Wednesday, she will visit via road Varanasi's Sheetla Mandir and meet women groups there. From Sheetla temple, Priyanka will again take the steamer ride till Ramnagar and interact with the fishermen community there. She will also visit the house of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri in Varanasi's Ramnagar before arriving at Assi Ghat by the steamer. There she will interact with the local people, people from Jain communities and offer prayers at Vishwanath temple. After performing rituals at the Vishwanath temple in Varanasi, she will again take the steamer ride to Dashashwamedh ghat. After that, she will leave for the Congress office in Varanasi and interact with party workers during a Holi Milan programme. She will then leave for Delhi on Wednesday evening from Varanasi airport. The Congress is contesting the Lok Sabha polls alone in Uttar Pradesh which sends 80 MPs to the Lok Sabha. The Samajwadi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal are contesting in alliance. In 2014, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its ally Apna Dal had won 73 seats while the Congress had managed to win only two. The Samajwadi Party had won five seats and the BSP had drawn a blank in the state. The Congress has to date announced 26 candidates for Uttar Pradesh. However, the party has not announced Priyanka's candidature. Her brother is contesting from Amethi, while her mother will contest from Rae Bareli seat. The seven-phased Lok Sabha elections is scheduled from April 11 to May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. New Delhi, March 16 : It is a battle to catch mind space through television ahead of the Lok Sabha elections and both the BJP and the Congress have tele-warriors adept at articulating their viewpoint. The tele-warriors are both a mix of youth and experience and know how to present their points amid the cacophony of voices on news channels. They promote their leaders and counter each other's "lies and propaganda" through "facts and figures". The tele-warriors do what senior leaders of the party cannot do on a daily basis due to their other responsibilities and commitments. Here are some of the prominent tele-warriors of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), many of whom are under 35 years of age. Vinit Goenka: A politician passionate about tapping technology to change the way India works, Goenka has knowledge in diverse fields including information technology, transportation, infrastructure and agriculture. He has worked extensively in Jammu and Kashmir. Goenka goes into the basics of an issue to score over his opponent and makes less use of lung power. He is a member of the Governing Council of Centre for Railway Information System, an organisation under the Ministry of Railways. He was appointed a member of the IT Task Force in the Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways and Shipping Ministry. In these capacities, he works closely with Union Ministers, including Nitin Gadkari and Suresh Prabhu on initiatives to achieve the government's goal of 'Minimum Government Maximum Governance'. Neha Joshi: A social activist, she is the daughter of BJP MLA from Uttarakhand, Ganesh Joshi. Joshi says her effort is not to ever appear arrogant as she represents the ruling party of the country in TV debates. "I can be aggressive but as a principle, I try not to speak over people", she told IANS. Joshi has earlier presented the party point of view during TV debates in her native state and was picked to do the same on national television. Joshi is a consultant with the Petroleum Ministry. She has a degree in economics and postgraduate degree in Social Work. Vaibhav Agarwal: An eloquent TV face of the BJP, he comes armed with facts and has an understanding of complex ground realities in the political arena. He is frequently present on news channels on debates, including on socio-political issues, and has made a place for himself among the new TV debaters of the party. Agarwal, 43, hails from Rajasthan and is well-versed with the party line. Charu Pragya: Clear and cogent in her articulation, Pragya is daughter of Minister of State for Human Resource Development Satya Pal Singh. She is a member of the BJP's youth wing Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha and has over 28,000 followers on Twitter. She is also part of several global initiatives involving youth leaders. She understands the caste dynamics of Indian politics and is articulate on social issues. Rohit Chahal: He is national media in-charge and in-charge of Jammu and Kashmir in BJYM. He participates in debates patiently and believes in listening to the counter view. Chahal has worked in ABVP for many years and has been in the BJP for the last three years and is well versed with the party line. He takes part in debates on Hindi news channels. Gaurav Bhatia: He is son of late Samajwadi Party (SP) parliamentarian Virendra Bhatia. A lawyer by profession, he was earlier associated with the SP and brings seriousness to a debate. He has twice served as honorary secretary of the Supreme Court Bar Association, and is now an advocate-on-record. He brings his skills of lawyer to debates and cuts to the point straight. Bhatia has a long experience of debates, having earlier articulated the point of view of Samajwadi Party on television. Syed Zafar Islam: A former investment banker, he joined the BJP ahead of the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. Islam has emerged as a prominent Muslim face of the party on television channels and speaks with logic and knowledge. He is cool and calm during debates and is well versed with the development initiatives of the Narendra Modi government, which he uses to demolish arguments of his opponents. Amit Malviya: He is chief of the BJP's social media cell and has reinvented himself into a party spokesperson. Having an Information Technology background, he is ready with figures to buttress his points and is also quick-witted. Malviya does his research and before coming for a debate and presents the arguments cogently. Niti Jain: A member of the BJYM, she has experience in advertising and copy writing. She is also a social activist with interests in education, women and youth empowerment and theatre and follows the government's programmes closely. She is among the young TV panelists of the party and uses her knowledge across the domains to put across her viewpoint. Sudesh Verma: A journalist by profession, Verma is a serious and calm face from the BJP in television debates. A former news editor of NewsX television channel, he was also a senior political analyst with the British High Commission for three years (2005-2008). He finally joined the party which he used to cover as a journalist. Soft-spoken, he is often called to state the party line on issues such as communalism and nationalism. Ashish Sood: He has been associated with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad, the student wing of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. He was made Vice President of the Delhi unit of the BJYM in 2002 and later became the Vice President of the state unit of the BJP. Well versed with local issues in Delhi as also national issues, he presents the party's view point with depth and knowledge. Sanju Verma: She is co-convener of BJP Mumbai's Intellectual Cell and is an entrepreneur. She has served as an Associate Director with JP Morgan and as an Executive Director with HDFC Securities. She stays cool while defending party line against mutliple attacks by opponents. She has deep knowledge of economic issues and is often asked questions by her opponents on the performance of Modi government on creating jobs. New Delhi, March 16 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched the 'Main Bhi Chowkidar' campaign, in a counter to Congress President Rahul Gandhi's "chowkidar chor hai" jibe. "Your Chowkidar is standing firm and serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar," Modi said in a series od tweets. "Today, every Indian is saying. Main Bhi Chowkidar," he added. With the tweet, the Prime Minister also shared a 3.45-minute video, urging people to particiapte in the campaign. As part of the campaign, Modi is slated to interact with people across the country via video on March 31. Bharatiya Janata Party sources said the campaign was launched as part of its strategy to turn the tables against Gandhi's jibe as it did in 2014 by aggressively countering former Union Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar's "chaiwalla" jibe. CHRISTCHURCH, March 15, 2019 (Xinhua) Policemen are seen on a road near the scene where the terror attacks occurred in Christchurch, New Zealand, March 16, 2019. At least 49 people were killed and 48 others wounded in the attacks on two mosques of Ne Image Source: IANS News Hyderabad: Ahmed Iqbal Jehangir, a man from Hyderabad who was critically injured in the horrific massacre at the Al Noor Mosque in New Zealand's Christchurch city. (File Photo: IANS) Image Source: IANS News Hyderabad, March 16 : More than 24 hour after the terror attack at two mosques in New Zealand's Christchurch city, a man from Hyderabad remains missing while another who was shot at is recovering. Mohammed Sayeeduddin was still waiting for information about his son Farhaj Ahsan, 31, who remained missing. "We are still waiting for information. He is still listed as missing," an anxious Sayeeduddin told IANS on Saturday. Farhaj's wife and her uncle, who rushed from Australia, were at a hospital in Christchurch, waiting for the authorities to provide some information. Farhaj, a software engineer, was at Al Noor mosque for Friday prayers when the terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on worshippers. He used to regularly offer Friday prayers at Al Noor as he lives in a nearby neighbourhood with his wife and two children. Like every day, Sayeeduddin rang up his son, unaware of what was going on at the mosque. "We speak to him over phone every day around afternoon and today being Friday I rang him around 8 a.m. but he did not respond," the father had told IANS hours after the mass killing. He then called his daughter-in-law, who informed that there has been an attack at the mosque and she has failed to reach Farhaj over his mobile phone. She later went to hospitals with a picture of her husband and after a long wait, the authorities told her that he is among 19 people missing. Farhaj, who did his MS from Auckland University, worked for various companies. Ahmed Iqbal Jehangir, another man from Hyderabad who was also at the same mosque, was injured. He received a bullet on his chest. "Alhamdulillah (grateful to Allah). He is out of danger and recovering," his brother Mohammed Khursheed Jehangir told IANS in Hyderabad on Saturday. According to information received by Khursheed, a surgery was performed on Ahmed at a hospital in Christchurch and it was successful. Ahmed, settled in New Zealand for 15 years, stay in the same neighbourhood where the tragedy struck and runs a Hyderabadi food restaurant near Al Noor mosque. His wife and children were safe. Khursheed plans to leave for New Zealand to see his brother. Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi has tweeted to Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj, urging her to provide immediate assistance to the two families to facilitate their travel to New Zealand. The Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (MIM) chief later tweeted again to thank Sushma Swaraj for personally updating him about the efforts of the Foreign Ministry in assisting Ahmed and Ahsan's families. Hyderabad, March 16 : Not satisfied with her cozy job at a corporate hospital here, a psychologist joined a team that is helping to prevent farmers' suicides in parts of Telangana. Shruti Naik wanted to explore the area of rural distress and found the task more challenging. Her experience in three districts of Telangana that reported the highest cases of farmers' suicides in the country has helped her understand the problem. "I realized how severe the problem is and how misconceptions get propagated in the outside world," Naik told IANS at the office of the 'Kisan Mitra' helpline at Tarnaka here. "The farmers are victims of circumstances, economic disparity and farm related issues. With no way to repay their loans, they suffer harassment at the hands of private money lenders and banks and the constant worry of how will I repay debts and manage my family haunts them." Kisan Mitra, run by Centre for Sustainable Agriculture, an NGO, provides last mile delivery of services to farmers with respect to their entitlements. It serves as a bridge between government and farmers and tries to see that issues faced by farmers are resolved which otherwise would make them to go into distress. It was started in 2017 in Vikarabad district at the initiative of then District Collector Divya Devarajan, who suggested that the NGO should take up the matter. However, they realized that it was not just the helpline which was required. "Sometimes, farmers in distress may not approach us as seeking help is considered a stigma. Then we decided to have field teams who would speak to farmers," she said. The helpline expanded its activity to Adilabad, a backward district bordering Maharashtra, after Devarajan was transferred there as the Collector. Subsequently, it also began its activities in Mancherial district. "We have so far received 8,000 calls relating to problems like land issues, crop related, payments, loans and banker-related issues. We tried to resolve 4,000 cases. Not all were in distress. The idea is to solve problems before they go into distress," said Naik. She heads a team of seven members, all women. The counselors who receive the calls take down the details of the farmers and forward them to the respective field-level coordinators for follow-up. It is also working with the government to rehabilitate the families of farmers who committed suicide. On International Women's Day last year in Adilabad district, it called a meeting of 120 widows and their families. They were provided alternative livelihood with the government's support. The problems of tenant farmers is a huge issue in Telangana. They are not covered under the 'Rythu Bandhu' scheme being implemented by the state government to provide investment support of Rs 8,000 per acre per year. Studies show that 75 per cent of farmers who commit suicide in Telangana are tenant farmers. Kisan Mitra has helped 5,000 tenant farmers in Adilabad obtain loan eligibility cards. It negotiated with some bankers to form joint liability groups with 4-5 in each group. The groups were provided loans of Rs 1 lakh each. Naik believes depression among farmers is a consequence of circumstances and farm and finance related issues. "If they get some handholding they will do well. If they are helped in areas like minimum support price and if there is some awareness created about debt management, they will not resort to suicides," she said. (Mohammed Shafeeq can be reached at m.shafeeq@ians.in ) San Francisco, March 16 : To tackle the spread of fake news via its platform, WhatsApp's new beta version shows a test feature that would run Google-powered web-checks on images being shared on the app to verify their legitimacy. Called "Search by Image", the feature would search an image on the web that a user either sent or received in their chats using official Google application programming interfaces (APIs) to find similar or equal images on the web. "If you choose to search an image, WhatsApp will alert you that it will be uploaded to Google after which WhatsApp will open the browser to show the results," WABetaInfo reported on Friday. The feature would help users understand if a news is real or fake. "When you receive an image, you can try to search it on the web and read information related to that image on the web," the report said. Apart from this, WhatsApp version 2.19.73 beta update also adds emojis natively on the app keyboard. The release and roll out specifications of the features remain unclear as of now. WhatsApp is also testing an in-app browser on the platform to allow users to open links within the platform itself. Lucknow, March 16 : Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) leader Danish Ali on Saturday joined the Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party, ahead of the coming Lok Sabha elections. Ali joined the BSP in the presence of the party's national general secretary Satish Mishra at the BSP office here. According to BSP sources, Ali, who was considered as a top leader in former Prime Minister H.D. Devegowda party, is likely to contest from Amroha in western Uttar Pradesh. The BSP which scored a nil in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls is contesting the general elections this time in the state in alliance with the Samajwadi Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal. The BJP-led NDA alliance had won 73 out of 80 seats in the state in 2014. The seven phased Lok Sabha elections is scheduled from April 11 to May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. London, March 16 : After the unveiling of actress Deepika Padukone's wax statue at Madame Tussauds museum here, her actor-husband Ranveer Singh took to social media to express love for his wife over her new achievement. Ranveer on Friday posted several photographs of himself with Deepika's wax statue. But it was his caption which stole all the limelight. Along with the photographs, Ranveer, a proud husband wrote: "DP 2.0! Original toh...mere paas hai (I have the original Deepika)! two much to handle." To that, Deepika jokingly said: "Now you know where to go when you miss me too much." On getting the wax statue, Deepika earlier said: "After I got a call from Madame Tussauds, I thought 'What is the purpose of this, why are we doing this, or what is it that my fans will remember me for, remember my figure for, what is it that I would like to leave behind', and the cause of mental health is very close to my heart, it is something that I am extremely passionate about. "I said that's it, I would like for my fans when they see my figure I hope it reminds them of someone who did something for the cause of mental illness, who worked towards creating awareness and de-stigmatising mental illness. "I hope that it gives people a sense of upliftment and a sense of hope. I hope that message comes through." Christchurch, March 16 : Twenty-eight-year-old Brenton Tarrant, who is the main suspect in the massacre of 49 people at two mosques in Christchurch, showed no remorse as he appeared in a court here on Saturday and smirked as the judge read a single murder charge against him. The right-wing extremist who filmed himself during the Friday rampage, appeared before the Christchurch district court in a white prison jumpsuit, handcuffed and barefoot. Flanked by two police officers, he smirked when media photographed him and was seen making a white supremacist sign with his hands, The New Zealand Herald reported. The Australian stood silently during the brief hearing as he was charged with one count of murder. He was remanded in custody without plea and is due to appear in court on April 5. Judge Paul Kellar did not reveal the victim's name on grounds of undue hardship to his family. Two other people were in custody over the incident. None of those detained had a criminal record. After Tarrant left the court, Judge Kellar said that while "there was one charge of murder brought at the moment, it was reasonable to assume that there will be others". Speaking at a news conference on Saturday, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the suspect's car was full of weapons, suggesting "his intention to continue with his attack". He had obtained a gun licence in November 2017 that allowed him to buy the weapons used in the attack. Ardern said that the guns appeared to have been modified. "The mere fact... that this individual had acquired a gun licence and acquired weapons of that range, then obviously I think people will be seeking change, and I'm committing to that," she said. New Zealand's Attorney-General David Parker said the government would look into banning semi-automatic weapons, but that no final decision had been made. Tarrant, who grew up in the Australian town of Grafton, had been living in the Dunedin, about 360 km south of Christchurch. The Australian police were investigating Tarrant's connections around Grafton. Before his appearance at the court, New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush said Tarrant had been charged with one count of murder, with other charges to follow. Tarrant was one of three people arrested in connection with the shootings at the Al Noor Mosque and the Linwood Avenue Masjid. The other two remain in custody but their role in the shootings was unclear, CNN said. A fourth person who had been taken into custody was later determined to be an armed bystander who wanted help police. Ardern, while speaking at the Christchurch Canterbury Refugee Centre on Saturday, said bodies were still being removed from the Al Noor mosque - the site of the first attack. She added that financial support would be made available to those who had lost someone on whom they were financially dependent. A total of 48 people were wounded in the shootings. India, Bangladesh and Indonesia all say some of their citizens were killed in the shooting and others are unaccounted for. Friday's killing was a terrorist attack that appeared orchestrated for the social media. The brutal shootings were previewed on an infamous Internet message board and then graphically live-streamed on Facebook. An 87-page manifesto, found by authorities after it was posted online, was filled with anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim ideas. According to the latest census figures, Muslims make up about 1.1 per cent of New Zealand's population of 4.25 million. Numbers rose sharply as New Zealand took in refugees from various war-torn countries since the 1990s. Jammu, March 16 : Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Saturday laid the foundation stone of a building that would provide free accommodation daily to 4,000 pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. To add additional facilities for meeting the accommodation needs of the pilgrims who visit the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, the Governor laid the foundation stone for construction of a new Durga Bhavan in the Bhavan area, a statement by the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, headed by the Governor, said. The Governor electronically launched the work on the five-storey building on the sidelines of the 64th meeting of the Shrine Board here at the Raj Bhavan. The building is estimated to cost around Rs 50 crore and will provide free accommodation to around 4,000 pilgrims every day. It will have adequate facilities such as lockers, toilets, blankets, ready-to-eat snacks and beverages as well as four elevators, the statement said. The new earthquake resistant building will be the largest of the existing buildings in the Bhavan area and will be almost twice the size of the old Durga Bhavan. Its terrace will be covered with an aesthetically designed roof as an additional resting place. New Delhi, March 16 : External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will begin her two-day visit to the Maldives from Sunday aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Saturday. During her visit, Sushma Swaraj will have bilateral meetings with her counterpart Abdulla Shahid and delegation level meetings with other Ministers including Mariya Ahmed Didi (Defence) and Ibrahim Ameer (Finance). "The Ministers will review the entire gamut of bilateral relations and discuss future programme of action," the Ministry said in a statement. It said that Sushma Swaraj's visit was at the invitation of Shahid. She will be accompanied by Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and other senior officials. Sushma Swaraj will call on the Speaker of Parliament Qasim Ibrahim upon her arrival in the island on Sunday, followed by ameeting with Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih the next day. "India attaches the highest importance to its relationship with the Maldives which is marked by trust, transparency, mutual understanding and sensitivity. This visit will further strengthen the close and friendly relations between India and Maldives," the statement added. Lucknow, March 16 : In a major setback to the BJP ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the party's sitting MP Shyama Charan Gupta from Prayagraj resigned and joined the Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party (SP) on Saturday. Gupta will contest the general elections as an SP candidate from the Banda parliamentary constituency. According to SP leaders, Gupta visited the party office in Lucknow later in the day and met Yadav, after which he was allotted the ticket. It is said that Gupta was unhappy with the Bharatiya Janata Party over reports that he may be denied a ticket from the Prayagraj constituency, which he won in 2014. Gupta had earlier contested the 2009 general elections as an SP candidate from Phulpur. The SP, Bahujan Samaj Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal are contesting the coming elections in an alliance. The SP won five seats in the 2014 elections, while the BSP scored a nil. The BJP-led NDA alliance had won 73 out of 80 seats in the state while the Congress had won two seats in the state. The seven phased Lok Sabha elections is scheduled from April 11 to May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. Dehradun, March 16 : Manish Khanduri, the son of former Uttarakhand Chief Minister B.C. Khanduri, on Saturday joined the Congress in the presence of party President Rahul Gandhi at an election rally here. Welcoming the younger Khanduri, Gandhi claimed that his father, also a retired Army General, was shunted out as the chairman of the defence committee just because he had raised a valid question on national security. "B.C. Khanduri is a true son of the soil. I want to tell you that he was shunted out of the defence committee just because he had raised a question on national security," Gandhi said at the Parade Grounds rally. Gandhi also garlanded Manish Khanduri to formally induct him into the party. Srinagar, March 16 : Militants killed a woman Special Police Officer (SPO) on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district, police said. The terrorists shot dead Khushboo Jan from close range while she was on her home village, Vehil. "She suffered critical bullet injuries around 2.40 p.m. and was rushed to a hospital where she succumbed," the police added. A cordon and search operation was underway to trace the assailants. SPOs are engaged by the state police on fixed monthly remuneration to fight militancy in the state. They are neither imparted training to handle firearms nor are weapons issued to them. The SPOs represent the lowest rung of police officials below the state constabulary that is adequately trained to handle weapons and are also issued service weapons. Amaravati, March 16 : What was initially thought to be a natural death has turned out to be a sensational murder case with wide political ramifications in view of next month's elections in Andhra Pradesh. The killing of YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader Y. S. Vivekananda Reddy at his residence in his home town of Pulivendula in Kadapa district on Friday has rattled the family when it was gearing up for April 11 elections to Andhra Pradesh Assembly and Lok Sabha. Uncle of YSRCP chief and Leader of Opposition Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy was the most unlikely victim of a ghastly crime. The former state minister and former MP was considered friendly across the political spectrum. That could be the reason for relatives initially stating that he died of cardiac arrest. However, with his body bearing multiple injury marks, it was treated as a case of unnatural death and within hours police concluded that he was murdered. Vivekananda Reddy was alone at his house after day-long campaigning for the party in Jammalamadugu constituency, of which he was the incharge. The 68-year-old is the third member of YSR family to die an unnatural death. His father Y.S. Raja Reddy was murdered in 1998 while elder brother and then Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy died in a helicopter crash in 2009. In a region once notorious for bloody fights among rival factions backed by political parties, Raja Reddy headed a strong group supported by the Congress party. A rival faction, headed by Parthasarathy Reddy, enjoyed the support of Telugu Desam Party (TDP). Raja Reddy was killed in a bomb attack near Pulivendula. R. Sudhakar Reddy, one of the convicts in Raja Reddy's murder, was released from prison three years ago. His possible role in VivekanandaaAs murder is now under the police scanner. Out of Raja Reddy's five sons, only Rajasekhara Reddy and Vivekananda Reddy were in politics. While Rajasekhara Reddy went on to become one of the most popular leaders of the state, Vivekananda had low-profile. The two brothers always shared family strongholds of the Pulivendula Assembly seat or the Kadapa Lok Sabha seat depending on the role YSR chose for himself. After YSR's death, his son Jaganmohan Reddy raised the banner of revolt against the Congress after it rejected his claim to be YSR's successor. Jagan floated the YSR Congress while Vivekananda remained loyal to Congress, became a state minister and even contested bye-elections against Jagan's mother, Y.S. Vijayamma, from Pulivendula in 2011. He, however, tasted defeat and later joined YSR Congress. Now Vivekananda's murder on election eve has triggered a war of words between the TDP and the YSR Congress, the new identity of the YSR family. Jagan and his party see this as a part of TDP conspiracy to eliminate YSR family. While demanding a CBI probe, Jagan said the TDP leadership was in power or it was aware of the conspiracy whenever a death occurred in his family. "Two days before the helicopter crash in which my father died, Chandrababu Naidu told the assembly that you will not return," Jagan said. The YSRCP chief also sees the knife attack on him at Visakhapatnam Airport in October last year a part of TDP conspiracy to finish off him and his family. On Jagan's demand, the Centre handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) investigations into the attack on him at Visakhapatnam Airport. (Mohammed Shafeeq can be contacted at m.shafeeq@ians.in) Kolkata, March 16 : Two persons, including a BJP worker, were arrested in West Bengal on Saturday for allegedly posting obscene messages on social media about Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha candidate Nusrat Jahan, police said. Jahan, a popular Bengali actress, will contest the upcoming polls from Basirhat constituency. Subhendu Chakraborty, a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) IT cell in Basirhat area, has been arrested from North 24 Parganas district's Baduria area after police received a complaint that he shared obscene pictures and text messages about Jahan on social media. "We received specific complaint against him for posting and forwarding obscene messages about a female public figure here. We have arrested him and seized his phone. He has been produced before the court," a police officer said. Meanwhile, another youth was arrested on similar charges from the district's Gaighata area. Jodhpur, March 16 : It's a city that contributed a crack cavalry unit that liberated Haifa after a decisive victory during World War I. Now, the Jodhpur Lok Sabha seat is bracing for a battle of a different kind that is keeping Rajasthan's ruling Congress and the main opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on their toes. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has indicated that his son Vaibhav Gehlot would contest from here. As a result of the "son" rise, Jodhpur, the Chief Minister's home turf, has become one of the most talked about parliamentary constituencies in Rajasthan. The Congress has won the seat eight times and the BJP on four occasions. The seat is currently occupied by BJP MP Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, a Minister of State in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. Shekhawat, however, exuded confidence. "If Vaibhav comes to contest this election, this seat will be the most talked about seat in the country," he said. "We have already changed the political narrative. The Congress has started following the BJP on mandir, cow and nationalism. Congress leaders too have started chanting 'Bharat Mata ki jai'," Shekhawat said. Meanwhile, all is seemingly not well in the Congress camp given the differences of opinion between Ashok Gehlot and his deputy, Sachin Pilot, who has made known his clear preference for nominating party workers for elections rather than giving tickets to family members of the present ministers. Pilot made it quite clear that he would not push anyone from his family to contest the Lok Sabha elections and would rather want his party workers to be given a chance to do so, clearly indicating his unhappiness over tickets being given to relatives of Congress ministers. "The party has given me the position of a Deputy Chief Minister. Now my task is that of a leader and I should extend a chance to other party workers to contest elections. Congress wants good, loyal and hardworking workers to contest elections. "The party has given such a big post to me and if I start doing advocacy for my family members' tickets then imagine my party workers' state of mind here," Pilot said when asked if he too wanted any of his relatives to contest the polls. On his part, Gehlot has maintained that his son will contest from Jodhpur, if he gets the party high command's nod. The Jodhpur seat undoubtedly has it all: Power-packed drama, politics, suspense, thrill, action and excitement. Jodhpur has eight assembly constituencies - Falodi, Lohavat, Shergarh, Sardarpura, Sheor, Sursagar, Puni and Pokhran. The Congress has six MLAs and the BJP two. Thirteen of Rajasthan's 25 constituencies, including Jodhpur, will vote in the fourth phase on April 29, while the remaining 12 will vote in the fifth phase on May 6. The day of reckoning will be on May 23, when it will be known who won from Jodhpur -- the Chief Minister's son or Modi's minister. (Archana Sharma can be reached at archana.s@ians.in) New Delhi, March 16 : El Nino may make a comeback this year to upset the expectations of a good monsoon, according to the latest report by the US-based National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). El Nino is a climate cycle formed in the Pacific Ocean with an impact on weather patterns across the globe. The cycle begins when warm water in the western tropical Pacific Ocean shifts eastward along the equator towards the coast of South America. NOAA forecasters have said that there is a 60 per cent chance of El NiAo conditions continuing through June to August in India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD), however, maintained that neutral El NiAo-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions are prevailing at present, indicating weak El NiAo formation. "El Nino was supposed to start at the end of last year but it was wrongly predicted. Currently there is a very weak prevalence of El NiAo. Some models suggest that it would retain for the next two to three months, and only thereafter it will weaken. Even at this stage it is weak," D.S Pai, Scientist at IMD, Pune, told IANS. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Earth Sciences had said that there was no indication of El Nino developing and it wont have any impact on the upcoming monsoon. "It is too early to talk about its impact on monsoon. May be around mid-April and May-end we will have a clear picture of El Nino's prevalence," Pai added. El Nino forecasts, issued in December 2018 by the IMD for the January-February-March period this year, maintained that the Sea Surface Temperatures (SSTs), which is the main indicator of the development of the phenomenon, would remain slightly warm over the central Pacific region. Except for Kerala, all other sub-divisions in the southern peninsular regions -- Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Rayalaseema and South Interior Karnataka -- received poor rainfall from October to December last year. The northeast monsoon ended up 44 per cent deficient, one of the driest in recent years. New Delhi, March 16 : El Nino may make a comeback this year to upset the expectations of a good monsoon, according to the latest report by the US-based National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). El Nino is a climate cycle formed in the Pacific Ocean with an impact on weather patterns across the globe. The cycle begins when warm water in the western tropical Pacific Ocean shifts eastward along the equator towards the coast of South America. NOAA forecasters have said that there is a 60 per cent chance of El Nino conditions continuing through June to August in India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD), however, maintained that neutral El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions are prevailing at present, indicating weak El Nino formation. "El Nino was supposed to start at the end of last year but it was wrongly predicted. Currently there is a very weak prevalence of El Nino. Some models suggest that it would retain for the next two to three months, and only thereafter it will weaken. Even at this stage it is weak," D.S Pai, Scientist at IMD, Pune, told IANS. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Earth Sciences had said that there was no indication of El Nino developing and it wont have any impact on the upcoming monsoon. "It is too early to talk about its impact on monsoon. May be around mid-April and May-end we will have a clear picture of El Nino's prevalence," Pai added. El Nino forecasts, issued in December 2018 by the IMD for the January-February-March period this year, maintained that the Sea Surface Temperatures (SSTs), which is the main indicator of the development of the phenomenon, would remain slightly warm over the central Pacific region. Except for Kerala, all other sub-divisions in the southern peninsular regions -- Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Rayalaseema and South Interior Karnataka -- received poor rainfall from October to December last year. The northeast monsoon ended up 44 per cent deficient, one of the driest in recent years. New York, March 16 : Increased use of digital media may be partly responsible for the growth in the percentage of young adults experiencing certain types of mental health disorders in the US over the past decade, suggests new research. "More US adolescents and young adults in the late 2010s, versus the mid-2000s, experienced serious psychological distress, major depression or suicidal thoughts, and more attempted suicide," said lead study author Jean Twenge, Professor of Psychology at San Diego State University in the US. "These trends are weak or non-existent among adults 26 years and over, suggesting a generational shift in mood disorders instead of an overall increase across all ages," Twenge added. For the study, the researchers analysed data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, a nationally representative survey that has tracked drug and alcohol use, mental health and other health-related issues in individuals aged 12 and over in the US since 1971. They looked at survey responses from more than 200,000 adolescents aged 12 to 17 from 2005 to 2017, and almost 400,000 adults aged 18 and over from 2008 to 2017. The rate of individuals reporting symptoms consistent with major depression in the last 12 months increased 52 per cent in adolescents from 2005 to 2017 - from 8.7 per cent to 13.2 per cent -- and 63 per cent in young adults aged 18 to 25 from 2009 to 2017 - from 8.1 per cent to 13.2 per cent, showed the findings published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology. "Cultural trends in the last 10 years may have had a larger effect on mood disorders and suicide-related outcomes among younger generations compared with older generations," said Twenge. She believes this trend may be partially due to increased use of electronic communication and digital media, which may have changed modes of social interaction enough to affect mood disorders. Moreover, research shows that young people are not sleeping as much as they did in previous generations, she noted. Pollachi, March 16 : Anger simmers in the town after murky details of the sexual abuse-cum-blackmail case blew up in the residents' faces and shredded the town's reputation. What has shocked them most is that the key accused are boys next door. Though the residents whom IANS spoke to declined to go on record, they did express their anger at the sordid episode. Many felt violated too. "The sexual abuse-cum-blackmail is unbelievable, shocking and shameful. Pollachi, an agricultural-cum-business town, always commanded respect from people in Tamil Nadu. But now its reputation is in tatters," a hotelier told IANS. Four youths -- Thirunavukkarasu, Sathish, Sabarirajan, Vasanthakumar -- all in their 20s, have been accused of assaulting women and filming their act to blackmail them for money or for physical submission for over seven years. "Sabirajan's father is a pious man, a hardworking mason. It is unbelievable that his son was involved in this," he said. As the sordid details started oozing out, upset residents and students hit the streets demanding action against the accused. The district administration was forced to declare holiday for colleges as students seethed with anger and frustration. Students from other towns also joined the protests. Various political parties and social organisations were also not far behind. More than the girl, the boys have to be brought up carefully with proper counselling and monitoring, is the common refrain in the town. "Recently I was in Madurai. There the driver of the taxi I hired was courteous and helpful. But when he came to know that I was from Pollachi, his attitude changed. He became silent. That in itself is a message," Ganesh, a resident of Pollachi, told IANS. He also wondered how the accused continued to abuse women for over seven years. The house where the girls were abused belonged to Thirunavukkarasu. The people of the area were unaware of the happenings inside that house. Neighbours of the accused too are surprised to know that the boy next door was involved in this horrible crime. The town is famous for coconut and various other agri-products. "Till 1980s different crops like sugarcane, turmeric, paddy and coconut were raised here. As getting agriculture labour became difficult, some land owners turned towards coconut farming or sold their lands to real estate developers," a senior resident of the town told IANS. He said Pollachi was famous in the region and commanded respect. Now, the reputation built over decades has been spoiled by the deeds of these accused. The residents want the accused to be punished early to deter others from indulging in any such activity. The view is shared not just by the residents of the town, but also the state as well as the nation. Speaking to reporters in Chennai, noted music director Illaiyaraaja said: "My feelings on the Pollachi issue is similar to the feeling prevailing in every heart." (Venkatachari Jagannathan can be contacted at v.jagannathan@ians.in) Washington, March 16 : The US Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the taxation agency of the government, has warned the public of a new type of "IRS impersonation phone scam". The IRS said the new scam was the most recent variation of impersonation scams in which target victims would receive fake calls from the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS), an independent organisation under the taxation agency. Callers "spoof" the telephone number of the TAS office in Houston or Brooklyn and the "robo-calls" usually request a callback. "Once the taxpayer returns the call, the con artist requests personal information, including social security number or individual taxpayer identification number," the IRS was cited as saying by Xinhua news agency. The IRS said the TAS does not initiate calls to taxpayers "out of the blue". "Typically, a taxpayer would contact TAS for help first, and only then would TAS reach out to the taxpayer," it said. The taxation agency also alerted the public to other forms of phone scams in the name of the IRS. "In other variations of the IRS impersonation phone scam, fraudsters demand immediate payment of taxes by a prepaid debit card or wire transfer," said the IRS. The taxation agency said it wouldn't threaten to bring in law enforcement immediately to arrest a taxpayer for not paying. Las Vegas, March 16 : Elon Musk's plan to build underground express-route tunnels in Las Vegas has got its first approval as the board of directors of Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) has voted in favour of Musk's The Boring Company for a new people-mover project. The 14-member board approved a recommendation to select The Boring Company to design, construct and operate a people-mover for the Las Vegas Convention Centre via a loop of underground express-route tunnels, which would carry passengers in autonomous electric vehicles at high speeds, according to a release of LVCVA, the Xinhua news agency reported on Friday. The innovative project has the potential to connect Las Vegas downtown, the city's Convention Centre, the Las Vegas Boulevard Resort Corridor, the McCarran International Airport and beyond, said the release. "Las Vegas is a high-energy, high-technology destination equipped to welcome the world, and we are excited to deliver a system that will help visitors efficiently navigate the city's many offerings," said Steve Davis, President, The Boring Company. The Boring Company and the LVCVA will determine specific design, construction and operational plans and negotiate a contract for the final approval by the LVCVA board in a subsequent meeting scheduled for June 2019. The loop will be designed with a potential capacity of up to 11,000 passengers per hour. The estimated system cost is between $35 million and $55 million depending on the route, the number of stations and the size of the stations, according to the release. TASHKENT, Sept. 18, 2015 (Xinhua) -- Delegates of Shanghai Cooperation Organization member states attend the 27th Session of the SCO's Regional Anti-Terrorism Agency, in Tashkent, capital of Uzbekistan, on Sept. 18, 2015. (Xinhua/Sadat/IANS) Image Source: IANS News Tashkent, March 16 : The Shanghai Cooperation Organization's (SCO) member states, including India and Pakistan, will participate in a joint anti-terrorism exercise this year, officials have said. The decision to hold the joint exercise -- "Sary-Arka-Antiterror 2019" -- was announced during the 34th meeting on Friday of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) council of the SCO in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Delegations from India, Kazakhstan, China, the Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and the RATS Executive Committee attended the meeting, Xinhua news agency reported. Chaired by Russia, the meeting also declared plans to hold the first stage of the joint border operation "Solidarity 2019-2021", the 7th meeting of the heads of the border services, and training workshops for identifying and preventing the use of Internet for terrorist, separatist and extremist purposes. THe RATS is a permanent part of the SCO that serves to promote cooperation of member states against the three evils of terrorism, separatism and extremism. It is headquartered in Tashkent. The next meeting of the Council of the RATS SCO is scheduled in Russia in September 2019. Panaji, March 16 : On a day when reports suggested that ailing Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar's condition has worsened, the Congress in Goa on Saturday staked claim to form the government in the coastal state. In a letter addressed to Goa Governor Mridula Sinha, Leader of Opposition Chandrakant Kavlekar said that the Parrikar-led coalition government is in a minority and its numbers may "dwindle". He demanded that she dismiss the incumbent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led dispensation and invite the Congress -- the single-largest party in the state Assembly -- to form the government. "Consequent upon the sad demise of Francis D'Souza, MLA, who belonged to the BJP, it is humbly submitted that the incumbent BJP-led state government under the leadership of Manohar Parrikar, which has long lost the trust of the people and now also lost strength in the House," Kavlekar said in the letter. "Also, we anticipate that numbers of the BJP may further dwindle," he wrote to the Governor requesting that such minority government be not allowed to continue even for a moment. "It is, therefore, incumbent upon you to dismiss the state government led by the BJP to ensure that the Indian National Congress, which is the single-largest party in the august House and is presently enjoying the majority, be called to form government," Kavlekar said. Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) was forced to issue a statement claiming that the health of Parrikar, who is being treated at his private residence for advanced pancreatic cancer, is "stable", after media reports said that his health conditions has worsened. Sources requesting anonymity told IANS that Parrikar's blood pressure had dropped considerably on Saturday morning. Parrikar was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer in February 2018 and has been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai, Delhi and New York ever since. After the death of former Deputy Chief Minister Francis D'Souza on February 14 this year, the BJP's tally in the state Legislative Assembly has come down to 13, while the Congress has 14 MLAs in the House. Last year, two Congress MLAs had quit the party and their membership of the House to join the BJP. Although the Goa Assembly has 40 seats, three seats are currently lying vacant. Speaking to IANS on condition of anonymity, a Congress legislator said that the ailing Parrikar is unable to move owing to his ill-health, and his inability to attend the Assembly session in case a no-confidence vote is facilitated by the Governor, would further deplete the BJP's strength in the state Assembly to 36. "This gives further advantage to the Congress in case of voting during the passing of a no-confidence motion. We have 14 MLAs, while the BJP will effectively have 12, with Parrikar ill. We are already in touch with ruling coalition allies to convince them to quit the BJP-led front and join a Congress-led coalition government," the Congress MLA said. The BJP-led coalition government currently has the support of 12 BJP MLAs, plus three lawmakers each from two regional parties, namely Goa Forward and the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party, one MLA from the National Congress Party and two Independent legislators. Mumbai, March 16 : After her son Taimur Ali Khan was trolled on social media, actress Kareena Kapoor Khan gave a befitting reply to get back at the trollers. Social media users had trolled Taimur stating that he is dying of hunger and Kareena is not a good mother. The "Veere Di Wedding" actress was present on Arbaaz Khan's chat show "Pinch". The actor showed an online comment to Kareena which read: "Taimur bhuka marr raha hai (Taimur is dying of hunger)". Kareena said: "But woh bechara bhooka nai marra hai. In fact, I think kuch zaada hi kha raha hai aajkal. Mota lag raha hai (He is not starving. In fact, I think he is eating a little too much. Has started to look fat)." The actress, who is married to actor Saif Ali Khan, also expressed concern over the growing paparazzi culture in India. She wondered how people could be so interested in her two-year-old son Taimur's life. "Looking at the media, looking at those lights..wondering what media is doing. Sometimes they cross the line..especially when comes to Taimur. What he is eating ? where he is going ?...media is constantly following him. Once in a while it is fine, but everyday? "He is just a two-year-old kid. One should allow that person to live his life," she added. Canberra, March 16 : Far-right Australian Senator Fraser Anning who blamed the New Zealand terror attack on Muslim immigration was egged at an event in Melbourne city on Saturday and slammed by the country's politicians for his comments. Video footage recorded at the press conference appeared to show Queensland Senator Anning halfway through the event when a teenager cracked an egg over his head while filming with a mobile phone. The senator responded by punching the 17-year-old. The latter was then tackled to the ground by Anning's supporters and held in a chokehold, the New Zealand Herald reported. The teenager was then taken away by the police and released without charge. The Victoria police were investigating the incident. Anning was criticised on Friday after he said that the mosque shootings which left 49 people dead highlighted a "growing fear over an increasing Muslim presence" in Australian and New Zealand communities. Twenty eight-year-old Australian Brenton Harrison Tarrant is the prime suspect in the Friday massacre at two mosques. The right-wing extremist filmed himself while carrying out the rampage. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Anning's comments blaming the Islamic community for the shooting were "appalling and ugly and they had no place in Australia". The leader said the government would censure the senator. Australian Labour Party leader Bill Shorten said Anning was "chasing a headline". "I do wonder if he's made Australians less safe overseas. That's another reason not to give this fool any more oxygen." A change.org petition calling for Anning's expulsion from Parliament amassed about 250,000 signatures. Bengaluru, March 16 : Karnataka Chief Minister and JD-S leader H.D. Kumaraswamy on Saturday said party General Secretary Danish Ali joined the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) with the party's consent. Ali joined the BSP in consent with me and our national President H.D. Deve Gowda in a purely political arrangement between the two parties. It is a thoughtful political decision taken by the Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) and the BSP to win more seats in the Lok Sabha elections, Kumaraswamy tweeted. Earlier in the day, Ali joined the BSP in the presence of party's national General Secretary Satish Mishra in Lucknow. "He (Ali) was promised a Lok Sabha seat by the BSP," a JD-S leader told IANS, though the details about the seat were not shared. As Convenor of the southern state's coalition coordination committee, Ali recently held discussions with Congress President Rahul Gandhi and finalised the seat-sharing pact between the ruling allies. Wellington, March 16 : Twenty-eight-year-old Brenton Tarrant, the main suspect in the deadly terror attack on two mosques in Christchurch, opened fire on worshippers using rifles covered in white-supremacist graffiti after listening to a song glorifying a Bosnian Serb war criminal. Two of the rifles used by the the right-wing extremist who filmed himself during the Friday bloodbath that claimed 49 lives mentioned Ebba Akerlund, an 11-year-old girl killed in April 2017 when an Uzbek man, Rakhmat Akilov, rammed his truck into people in Stockholm. Akerlund's death was memorialised in the gunman's apparent manifesto, which was published online, as an event that drove him to wage war against what he perceived as "the enemies of Western civilisation". The name Charles Martel, hailed by white supremacists for defeating an invading Muslim force at the Battle of Tours in 732, was also displayed on weapons used in the carnage. According to reports, the number 14 was also seen on the gunman's rifles. The number may refer to 14 Words, which according to the Southern Poverty Law Centre, is a white supremacist slogan linked to Adolf Hitler's Mein Kampf. The centre which monitors hate groups said that Tarrant also used the symbol of the Schwarze Sonne, or black sun, which "has become synonymous with myriad far-right groups". Four names of famous Serbs who fought against the 500-year rule of the Ottomans in the Balkans, written in the Cyrillic alphabet, were also seen on the gunman's rifles. The footage showed Tarrant driving to the first mosque while listening to a song idolising Radovan Karadzic, who was jailed for genocide and other war crimes against Bosnian Muslims. The 74-page "manifesto" Tarrant posted online listed various neo-fascist aims, including the creation of an atmosphere of fear among Muslims. He espoused far-right and anti-immigrant ideology in the document. He claimed that he had brief contact with the Norwegian mass murderer Anders Breivik, who gave his "blessing" to the attack. In the document, called "the great replacement", Tarrant described himself as a "regular white man from a regular family" who "decided to take a stand to ensure a future for my people". He said he wanted his attack on the mosques to send a message that "nowhere in the world is safe". The document said the attack was planned for two years and that although New Zealand was not the original choice of location, Christchurch was scoped out three months in advance. New Delhi, March 16 : Accusing the Congress and its President Rahul Gandhi of raising "manufactured issues" in their electoral campaign, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday said if those "fake" issues were taken out of Gandhi's speech, nothing will be left. In a Facebook post, Jaitley said that "falsehood falls apart" and that the "overconfidence" of opposition leaders undermining the electorates' wisdom would not go unpunished in the Lok Sabha elections. "Rahul Gandhi has led not only his party but the entire opposition to rely on fake and manufactured issues. They raise fake issues, create an echo effect and then believe their falsehood to be true. It's time that they come out of the cocoon of falsehood or perish there," he said. "Fake issues raised in Rafale, Balakot, Judge Loya's death, bank loan waiver, JNU issue, EVM, GST, demonetisation or Nirav Modi and Mallya, or be it the special status for Andhra Pradesh or the issues of economy, every time fakery and manufactured issues of opposition fell apart...If fake issues are taken out of Rahul Gandhi's speech, nothing will perhaps be left," he said. Accusing the opposition of underestimating the wisdom of the electorate, Jaitley said the electorate would also underestimate India's opposition parties and show them their place. "Poll campaigners must know that a campaign of fake issues never works...The real strength of Indian democracy is the inherent wisdom of the voters. They punish non-performers and they vote back those who deliver. Pollsters, political pandits and commentators usually go wrong," he added. Jaitley said the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government was led by a leader with whom the comfort level of the voters was high and hence the opposition was in a state of panic with its "negative" single point programme -- "remove one man". "The level of their ambition is limited. Indian voters have huge potential to distinguish between truth and falsehood and they prefer fairness. Political leaders are over-confident of their wisdom. Little do they realise that the electorate is wiser than them. Voters are capable of punishing those who resort to falsehood," he said. Expressing confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party under Prime Minister Narendra Modi would get a clear mandate in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, Jaitley said unlike many western democracies, a sizeable section of India's population was not permanently politically affiliated and their vote preferences varied from election to election. He said that hung Assemblies and Parliament are predicted only in opinion polls and since the voter is far more decisive, he endeavours to elect a government with a clear mandate with the front-runner getting more seats than predicted. In a point-by-point rebuttal of the opposition's electoral issues, Jaitley rejected its contention that a costlier Rafale was purchased by the present government while giving favours to a domestic industrialist violating procedures. He said both the Supreme Court and the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) cleared the deal, rejecting all contentions of the opposition. On the criticism that the BJP was politicising the terror attack in Pulwama and the Indian Air Force (IAF) strikes at Balakot in Pakistan, and its demand that evidence of what happened at Balakot should be placed in the public domain, Jaitley said the Indian armed forces consider it "not in the interest of national security and military discipline that the details of military operations should be placed in public domain." On the opposition's allegations of waiving loans worth Rs 2.5 lakh crore of 15 industrialists, he reiterated that "not one rupee of loan has been waived" and in fact, the present government through its new Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code had recovered almost Rs 3 lakh crore worth of non-performing assets (NPAs) in the last two years. Jaitley also rejected the opposition's charge of electronic voting machines (EVMs) being tampered with, saying there "was a problem with the political losers." "It is the same machine with which the Congress party won the recent Assembly elections." On the Goods and Services Tax (GST), which the opposition has labelled as "a disaster", the Finance Minister said all the opposition parties had supported it and it was a part of the Congress manifesto. "The opposition alleges that demonetisation was a failure which caused tremendous hardship to the poor people. Demonetisation caused hardship only to the holders of black money. It helped in formalising the economy... It hastened the digitisation of the Indian economy. India today collects more taxes at lower rates and uses them for the benefit of the poor," he said. On the charge that Nirav Modi and Vijay Mallya were helped by the BJP government, Jaitley said that their crimes were committed when the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) was in power and it was the BJP government which was trying to bring them to justice. "Nobody who frauds India can escape," he said. On the issue of jobs, he said India was the fastest growing economy in the world and its multiplier effect on jobs was very large. Thrissur : , March 16 (IANS) Ancy Ali, a 25-year-old Keralite female student, was among the 49 people killed in the horrific terror attack on two mosques in Christchurch on Friday, the Kerala Police said. Ancy was doing her post-graduation in Christchurch and was living with her husband Abdul Nassar near the mosques where the firings took place. Speaking to IANS, an officer at the Kodungalloor police station, from where the couple hails, said the Special Branch of the police informed them about the casualty. "They migrated to New Zealand last year. While she was a student, her husband was working there. We received the news that a woman from here was injured in the shooting. We have now received the news that she has passed away," said the officer who did not wish to be named. Chennai, March 16 : Even as the Pollachi sexual abuse-cum-blackmail case continues to be a burning issue, a taxi driver was arrested in Tamil Nadu's Nagapattinam on a similar charge, police said. Sundar, a taxi driver, befriended a girl working in a shop in Nagapattinam district, around 320 km from here. After some time, he took the girl to a hotel room in Karaikal in Puducherry and laced her cold drink with a sedative and sexually assaulted her, police said. As she was threatened by Sundar, the girl lodged a complaint and the police took him into custody. In Pollachi, also in Tamil Nadu, four youths -- Thirunavukkarasu, Sathish, Sabarirajan, Vasanthakumar -- have been accused of assaulting women and filming their act to blackmail them for money or for physical submission for over seven years. Hyderabad, March 16 : A man from Hyderabad was killed in the horrific terror attack on two mosques in New Zealand's Christchurch on Friday, his family said here on Saturday. Software engineer Farhaj Ahsan, 31, who was reported missing by the authorities after the incident, was among 49 killed in the indiscriminate firing by a gunman. "We have received information a short while ago that my brother was martyred in the attack," Kashif Ahsan, elder brother of Farhaj told IANS. Ahsan's father Mohammed Sayeeduddin, who was hoping to hear some good news about his son, was inconsolable. A pall of gloom descended on the family's house in Nadeem Colony of Toli Chowki area after the family received the shocking news. Relatives and friends were pouring in to console the family. Authorities in Christchurch informed Ahsan's wife and her uncle, who rushed from Australia, about his death. They were at a hospital in Christchurch, waiting for some information since morning. Ahsan, a software engineer, was at Al Noor mosque for Friday prayers when the terrorist opened indiscriminate fire on worshippers. A father of two, he used to regularly offer Friday prayers at Al Noor mosque as he lives in a nearby neighbourhood. Like every day, Sayeeduddin rang up his son, unaware of what was going on at the mosque. "We speak to him over phone every day around afternoon and today being Friday, I rang him around 8 a.m. but he did not respond," he had told IANS. He then called his daughter-in-law, who informed him that there was an attack at the mosque and she also tried to reach Ahsan over his mobile phone. She later went to hospital with a picture of her husband and after a long wait, the authorities told her that he is among 19 people missing. Ahsan, who did his MS from Auckland University, worked for various companies and had recently completely a project for a firm in Christchurch. Meanwhile, another man from Hyderabad who was injured in the terror attack was recovering. Ahmed Iqbal Jehangir, who was at the same mosque, sustained bullet injuries in his chest and shoulder. "Alhamdulillah (grateful to Allah). He is out of danger and recovering," his brother Mohammed Khursheed Jehangir told IANS here on Saturday. According to information received by Khursheed, a surgery was performed on Ahmed at a hospital in Christchurch to remove a bullet. Ahmed, settled in New Zealand for 15 years, runs a Hyderabadi food restaurant near Al Noor mosque. His wife and children who stay in the same neighbourhood were safe. Khursheed plans to leave for New Zealand to see his brother. CHRISTCHURCH, March 16, 2019 (Xinhua) -- A woman places a card to mourn the victims of the attacks on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, on March 16, 2019. It was revealed that a 28-year-old Australian man, Brenton Tarrant, conducted terrorist Image Source: IANS News WELLINGTON, March 16, 2019 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern addresses a briefing in Wellington, capital of New Zealand, on March 16, 2019. Jacinda Ardern reiterated to the public on Saturday morning that the country's gun law wil Image Source: IANS News Christchurch, March 16 : Twenty-eight-year-old Brenton Tarrant, the main suspect in the Christchurch terror attack that claimed 49 lives, was charged with murder at a court here on Saturday as New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern vowed to change the country's gun laws. Two Indians -- Ancy Ali (25) from Thrissur in Kerala and Faraj Ahsan (31) in Hyderabad -- are among the dead, reports said. The right-wing extremist appeared before the Christchurch district court in a white prison jumpsuit, handcuffed and barefoot. Flanked by two police officers, he smirked when media photographed him during the hearing and was seen making a white supremacist sign with his hands. The Australian stood silent during the brief hearing as he was charged with one count of murder. He was remanded in custody without plea and is due to appear in court on April 5. Two other people were also being investigated over the attacks. These three detained people were not on any New Zealand or Australian watchlists and were not known to the police. According to authorities, it remained unclear how many attackers were involved in the attack or if the same man attacked both mosques. More than 48 people were injured in shootings at Al Noor Mosque and the Linwood Avenue Masjid in the city on Friday. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said: "The man is currently facing one count of murder but there will be further charges". She visited a refugee and migrant centre in Christchurch as thousands of people across the country laid flowers at mosques and attended vigils. Speaking at a news conference, the Prime Minister said the suspect's car was full of weapons, suggesting "his intention to continue with his attack". He had obtained a gun licence in November 2017 that allowed him to buy the weapons used in the attack. He used five guns, including two semi-automatic weapons and two shotguns. "A lever-action firearm was also found," she said, later adding that the guns appeared to have been modified. "The mere fact... that this individual had acquired a gun licence and acquired weapons of that range, then obviously I think people will be seeking change, and I'm committed to that," she said. New Zealand's Attorney-General David Parker said the government would look into banning semi-automatic weapons. Ardern's Chief Press Secretary Andrew Campbell said that the Prime Minister's office had received an email with the "manifesto" from the shooter minutes before the attack. Campbell said the email was sent to a "generic" email account that was maintained by staff, and was not seen by the Ardern. The shooter's hate-filled 87-page manifesto contained anti-immigrant, anti-Muslim ideas and was also posted online before the attack. According to the BBC, 49 victims were identified including Daoud Nabi, 71, originally from Afghanistan. He moved his family to New Zealand in the 1980s to escape the Soviet invasion. Nabi was a community leader in New Zealand and a known supporter of other migrant groups. The dead included Pakistani-born Naeem Rashid and his son Talha. According to reports, three Bangladeshis, 4 Egyptians and a Syrian refugee were also among the victims. In the aftermath of the carnage, New Zealanders rallied to offer support and sympathies for the victims, leaving flowers and messages at sites close to the Al Noor Mosque. Vigils were held at mosques and community centres worldwide. Sydney's Opera House was lit up in New Zealand colours. A silver fern, the national symbol was projected in the middle of the building. The Eiffel Tower in Paris also went dark. The spire of New York's One World Trade Centre was lit in the colours of New Zealand's flag. Tarrant, who grew up in the Australian town of Grafton, had been living in the Dunedin, about 360 km south of Christchurch. The Australian police were investigating his connections around Grafton. Meanwhile, more details about the shooting suspect's travels throughout Europe emerged. Bulgarian Prosecutor General Sotir Tsatsarov said that the shooter visited Bulgaria between November 9 and 15 of last year. Tarrant arrived in Sofia on a flight from Dubai, rented a car and toured cities connected with Bulgarian history, Tsatsarov said. He added that the New Zealand attack suspect had a very good knowledge of the region's history. Tsatsarov also told journalists that after leaving Bulgaria, Tarrant went to Romania, traveling from there to Hungary by car. Turkish officials also told CNN that the suspect had spent an extended period of time in Turkey. In a chapter of Tarrant's hate-filled manifesto he called for the assassination of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, declaring "he must bleed his last". New Delhi, March 16 : Congress President Rahul Gandhi has set a hectic pace of campaign for the Lok Sabha polls visiting six states in the past week and has outlined the partys electoral thrust to raise social and economic issues including jobs, healthcare and farm loans to oust the Modi government. Gandhi has been touring one state after another since the announcement of the poll schedule on Sunday last and has visited Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Uttarakhand besides Delhi. The Congress has also taken a lead in declaring its candidates and has come out with three lists containing 54 names. Gandhi will be in Karnataka on Monday, Arunachal Pradesh on Tuesday and Manipur and Tripura on Wednesday. Apart from political rallies, Gandhi has addressed booth workers meetings, interacted with health professionals and addressed a press conference. His programmes also include interactions with students and opinion makers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not yet addressed a political rally since the announcement of schedule for Lok Sabha polls. Gandhi has also been setting the themes of party's campaign. In his visit to Tamil Nadu, he announced 33 per cent reservation for women in government jobs. During his visit to Chhattisgarh, he announced that Congress will ensure right to healthcare for people and said it will be more beneficial to people compared to Ayushman Bharat scheme of the Modi government. In his rallies and interactions, Gandhi has also been talking of minimum income guarantee scheme, farm loan waiver, jobs and removing "flaws" in implementation of Goods and Services Tax, which will be replaced by a single rate GST. Gandhi has also been making allegations against Modi over alleged corruption, calling him "chor" (thief) and has been seeking to portray him as a friend of the rich who was not concerned about the farmers and the common man. He has accused the BJP of not fulfilling its poll promises including on creating jobs. Bhopal, March 16 : Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan on Saturday announced that she was giving up her Z-plus security as well as the protocol vehicles that formed part of her cavalcade in her capacity as the Speaker in the Lower House. In a letter to Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, Mahajan said although neither her candidature has been announced nor the notification for the Indore Lok Sabha seat has come, she feels in a "peaceful, safe city" like Indore she did not need the security apparatus as well as other government vehicles. "Although I am still entitled to the security and protocol vehicles -- and they are still accompanying my car -- as I still hold the constitutional position of the Lok Sabha Speaker, I want to inform you (Chief Minister) that I am giving up these facilities," Mahajan said in the letter. Hyderabad/Thrissur : , March 16 (IANS) A software engineer from Hyderabad and a woman post-graduate student from Kerala's Thrissur were among the 49 people killed in Friday's terror attacks on two mosques in New Zealand's Christchurch, while the whereabouts of at least two visitors from Gujarat where not known. The shootings - the first fatal terror attack in the South Pacific island nation in many decades, was allegedly carried out by Brenton Tarrant, 28, who was charged with murder at a court in Christchurch on Saturday. Ancy Ali, a 25-year-old married woman from Kerala's Thrissur, was among the victims, the Kerala Police said. Ancy, who had migrated to New Zealand with her husband Abdul Nassar last year, lived near the mosques that were attacked, an officer at the Kodungalloor police station in Thrissur told IANS. Ancy was doing her post-graduation in Christchurch where her husband was working, the officer said. "We received news from the Special Branch that a woman from here was injured in the shooting. We have now received the news that she has passed away," said the officer who did not wish to be named. Software engineer Farhaj Aslan, who was reported missing following the attacks, was confirmed dead, his family in Hyderabad said on Saturday. "We have received information that my brother was killed in the attack," his elder brother Kashif Ahsan told IANS. The 31-year-old's father Mohammed Sayeeduddin, who was hoping to hear some good news about his son, was inconsolable. Grieving family members huddled in a corner at the family's house in Nadeem Colony of Toli Chowki area after the family received the shocking news. Relatives and friends were pouring in to console the family. Authorities in Christchurch informed Ahsan's wife and her uncle, who rushed from Australia, about his death. They were at a hospital in Christchurch, waiting for some information since morning. Ahsan was at Al Noor mosque for Friday prayers when the terrorist opened indiscriminate fire on worshippers. A father of two, he used to regularly offer Friday prayers at Al Noor mosque as he lives in a nearby neighbourhood. Like every day, Sayeeduddin rang up his son, unaware of what was going on at the mosque. "We spoke to him over phone every day around afternoon and today being Friday, I rang him around 8 a.m. but he did not respond," he had told IANS. He then called his daughter-in-law, who informed him that there was an attack at the mosque and that she also tried to reach Ahsan over his mobile phone. She later went to hospital with a picture of her husband and after a long wait, the authorities told her that he is among 19 people missing. Ahsan, who did his MS from Auckland University, worked for various companies and had recently completely a project for a firm in Christchurch. Meanwhile, another man from Hyderabad who was injured in the terror attack was recovering. Ahmed Iqbal Jehangir, who was at the same mosque, sustained bullet injuries in his chest and shoulder. "Alhamdulillah (grateful to Allah)! He is out of danger and recovering," his brother Mohammed Khursheed Jehangir told IANS here on Saturday. According to information received by Khursheed, a surgery was performed on Ahmed at a hospital in Christchurch to remove a bullet. Ahmed, settled in New Zealand for 15 years, runs a Hyderabadi food restaurant near Al Noor mosque. His wife and children who stay in the same neighbourhood were safe. Khursheed plans to leave for New Zealand to see his brother. Officials in Gujarat said that there was no word about some people from the state who were understood to be visiting Christchurch and they were awaiting a response from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). According to unconfirmed sources, at least four visitors from Gujarat were present at the two mosques in Christchurch when the shootings took place. Mehboob Khokhar, a retired employee of the Gujarat Electricity Board (GEB) and a resident of Ahmedabad's Juhapura, had gone to one of the mosques to offer Friday prayers. "After the attack in the mosque at Al Noor, my brother-in-law Imran and my mother-in-law Begum Akhtar rushed to the hospitals. But we still don't know whether Khokhar is admitted somewhere or is still missing. We have not received any confirmation from the New Zealand authorities yet," said Hafiz Patni, the son-in-law of Khokhar, who's also a resident of Juhapura. It is also believed that a father-son duo from Anand were also present at one of the two mosques when the attack took place. New Delhi, March 16 : Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday said the Narendra Modi government has evolved a new security doctrine in which terrorists will be targeted "at their point of origin". Speaking at India TV Conclave here, Jaitley said: "Till now, Pakistan had been pushing in terrorists from across the Line of Control (LoC) to carry out killings, but now Prime Minister Modi has evolved a new security doctrine. In this, we have decided to target terrorists at their points of origin." He said that through a series of measures, India has made it clear that "if you indulge in terrorism, the cost will be so high that you will find it unaffordable". "We crossed the LoC and International Border twice. Not a single country in the world criticised us... After the Balakot air strike, China did not question why Indian jets entered the air space, it only called for restraint. Through international diplomacy, we must isolate Pakistan, whether in the Security Council, or at the IMF where it has gone to seek funds for the 13th time," Jaitley said. In response to a query, Jaitley said he does not agree with the campaign being carried out in social media by certain groups calling for a ban on consumption of Chinese products in India. "It is a strategic subject. Strategy is not guided by emotions. Whenever the government takes action, it is done at the opportune time, and it is always a graded type of action," he said. Jaitley said, Pakistan's counter-strike in reply to Balakot, on February 27 at the LoC "was a botched up operation". "Our Air Force knew that they would strike, and had effectively created a wall of aircraft. Their planes turned back, and we shot down their F-16. And even after that our brave pilot went after them to shoot down one more plane. Our Army and Air Force showed their capability," he said. Latest updates on Howdy Modi Houston This blog covers software patent news and issues with a particular focus on wireless, mobile devices (smartphones, tablet computers, connected cars) as well as select antitrust matters surrounding those devices. Chandigarh, March 16 : While supporting the air strikes inside Pakistan by the Indian Air Force, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Saturday said that "any government of the day, including the Congress, would have retaliated after the Pulwama (terror) attack". Asked if the recent air strikes by the IAF would benefit the Bharatiya Janata Party in the coming elections, Amarinder said: "The government just did its job, which Congress governments had done in the past too. The (Narendra) Modi government has simply coined a new phrase - surgical strikes - for such action." "Jawans and officers are dying every day," said the Chief Minister, while lashing out at the BJP for politicization of the armed forces and their use for promoting political interests. "The Congress never politicized the 1965 or the 1971 wars. We have always put the nation above political interests," Amarinder told media here. Chhindwara, March 16 : Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on Saturday said he wanted to hand over the responsibility of Chhindwara, which he has been serving for decades, to his son Nakul Nath. Sharing the dais with his son, Nath told a gathering here: "You people will support me and Congress in the upcoming elections. I have already served you for 40 years. I have dedicated all my youth to the Chhindwara, now I want to hand over this responsibility to my son Nakul Nath." "Now, get your works done from him (Nakul). I will support you while remaining in the background, but you people are supposed to teach him. Give him a chance, so that we can do good development work in the state," said the Chief Minister. Chhindwara is considered a citadel of Congress. Kamal Nath will contest Assembly elections from this seat because it is mandatory to be elected as MLA within the six months of being appointed as the Chief Minister. Chhindwara is a parliamentary constituency also, so, Kamal Nath may field his son from here, sources said. Kolkata, March 16 : Returning here to a tumultuous welcome from his followers after joining the BJP, former Trinamool Congress strongman Arjun Singh on Saturday said he was confident of victory if his new party nominated him as its Lok Sabha poll candidate from Barrackpore. "I was feeling suffocated in Trinamool. I feel better in the BJP," the lawmaker from North 24 Parganas district's Bhatpara told media persons at the NSCBI airport on his return from Delhi amid incessant slogans from his loyalists. "If my party makes me the candidate from Barrackpore, then I am very much hopeful of victory. (Trinamool candidate and sitting MP) Dinesh Tribedi is going to lose," he said, as his fans shouted "Arjun Singh zindabad", "Jai Siyaram" and frantically captured his photo and video on their mobile phones. The four-time legislator was mobbed at the airport, and his close associates had a trying time in getting him into his car. "My followers are my biggest resources," said a smiling Singh, who crossed over to the BJP on March 14 after Trinamool ignored him and decided to persist with former Railway Minister Trivedi as its candidate from Barrackpore. Panaji, March 16 : Doctors examining ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar aren't saying he will recover, Deputy Speaker Michael Lobo said on Saturday. He also said that as long as Parrikar, who is suffering from advanced pancreatic cancer is alive, there will be no leadership change in the BJP-led coalition government. "Parrikar is very ill since last night. Doctors who are examining him aren't saying that he will recover..." Lobo said, after attending a meeting of BJP MLAs at the party's state headquarters here. "...we are praying to God that he should recover. But there are no chances of recovery," he added. However, Union Minister Shripad Naik and state Minister Vijay Sardesai said that while Parrikar's condition had worsened on Saturday, he was now stable. Earlier on Sunday, the Chief Minister's Office was forced to issue a statement claiming that the health of Parrikar, who is being treated at his private residence, was "stable", after media reports said that his health conditions had worsened. Sources, requesting anonymity told IANS that Parrikar's blood pressure had dropped considerably on Saturday morning. Parrikar was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer in February 2018 and has been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai, Delhi and New York since then. Hyderabad/Thrissur : , March 16 (IANS) Two men from Telangana and a woman post-graduate student from Kerala's Thrissur were among the 49 people killed in Friday's terror attacks on two mosques in New Zealand's Christchurch, while the whereabouts of at least two visitors from Gujarat were not known. The shootings - the first fatal terror attack in the South Pacific island nation in many decades, was allegedly carried out by Brenton Tarrant, 28, who was charged with murder at a court in Christchurch on Saturday. Ancy Ali, a 25-year-old married woman from Kerala's Thrissur, was among the victims, the Kerala Police said. Ancy, who had migrated to New Zealand with her husband Abdul Nassar last year, lived near the mosques that were attacked, an officer at the Kodungalloor police station in Thrissur told IANS. Ancy was doing her post-graduation in Christchurch where her husband was working, the officer said. "We received news from the Special Branch that a woman from here was injured in the shooting. We have now received the news that she has passed away," said the officer who did not wish to be named. Software engineer Farhaj Aslan, who was reported missing following the attacks, was confirmed dead, his family in Hyderabad said on Saturday. "We have received information that my brother was killed in the attack," his elder brother Kashif Ahsan told IANS. The 31-year-old's father Mohammed Sayeeduddin and mother Imtiaz Fatima, who were hoping to hear some good news about his son, were inconsolable. Grieving family members huddled in a corner at the family's house in Nadeem Colony of Toli Chowki area after the family received the shocking news. Relatives and friends were pouring in to console the family. Authorities in Christchurch informed Ahsan's wife Insha Aziz and her uncle, who rushed from Australia, about his death. They were at a hospital in Christchurch, waiting for some information since morning. Ahsan was at Al Noor mosque for Friday prayers when the terrorist opened indiscriminate fire on worshippers. A father of seven-year-old son and two-year-old daughter, he used to regularly offer Friday prayers at Al Noor mosque as he lives in a nearby neighbourhood. Another man from Karimnagar town of Telangana was also killed in the attack. Mohammad Imran Khan fell to the bullets at the mosque, according to information reaching his relatives in Karimnagar. Imran, whose family was settled in the US, was engaged in some business in New Zealand for last few years. He was also at Al Noor mosque for Friday prayers when the gunman opened fire. Imran Khan's uncle Manzoor Ahmed Khan received information from his brother's family in US about his death in the Christchurch shootout. The relatives also identified him from one of the pictures on social media. Meanwhile, another man from Hyderabad who was injured in the terror attack was recovering. Ahmed Iqbal Jehangir, who was at the same mosque, sustained bullet injuries in his chest and shoulder. "Alhamdulillah (all thanks to Allah)! He is out of danger and recovering," his brother Mohammed Khursheed Jehangir told IANS here on Saturday. According to information received by Khursheed, a surgery was performed on Ahmed at a hospital in Christchurch to remove a bullet. Ahmed, settled in New Zealand for 15 years, runs a Hyderabadi food restaurant near Al Noor mosque. His wife and children who stay in the same neighbourhood were safe. Khursheed plans to leave for New Zealand to see his brother. Officials in Gujarat said that there was no word about some people from the state who were understood to be visiting Christchurch and they were awaiting a response from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). According to unconfirmed sources, at least four visitors from Gujarat were present at the two mosques in Christchurch when the shootings took place. Mehboob Khokhar, a retired employee of the Gujarat Electricity Board (GEB) and a resident of Ahmedabad's Juhapura, had gone to one of the mosques to offer Friday prayers. "After the attack in the mosque at Al Noor, my brother-in-law Imran and my mother-in-law Begum Akhtar rushed to the hospitals. But we still don't know whether Khokhar is admitted somewhere or is still missing. We have not received any confirmation from the New Zealand authorities yet," said Hafiz Patni, the son-in-law of Khokhar, who's also a resident of Juhapura. It is also believed that a father-son duo from Anand were also present at one of the two mosques when the attack took place. New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram, March 16 : The Congress, which is contesting 16 of Kerala's 20 Lok Sabha seats, on Saturday announced 12 of its candidates. While most of its eight sitting MPs have been re-nominated, a shock exclusion was of former Union Minister K.V. Thomas. Thomas, the sitting member from Ernakulam, has been replaced by young legislator Hibi Eden. In Kerala, where polling will be held on April 23, in the third of the seven phase Lok Sabha elections, the other four seats will be contested by other members of the Congress-led United Democratic Front - the Indian Union Muslim League 2, and the Revolutionary Socialist Party and and the Kerala Congress-Mani one each. The Congress's first list, released in Delhi, includes sitting MPs Shashi Tharoor (Thiruvananthapuram), Kodikunnil Suresh (Mavelikera) M.K. Raghavan (Kozhikode) and Anto Antony (Pathanamthitta). The other candidates are Raj Mohan Unnithan (Kasargode), K. Sudhakaran (Kannur), V.K. Sreekantan (Palakkad), Remya Haridas (Alathur), Benny Behanan (Chalakudy), T.N. Pratapan (Thrissur), and Dean Kuriakose (Idukki). State party President Mullapally Ramachandran, who is the sitting MP from Vadakara, had already made it clear that he took over the state chief on the condition that he will not seek re-election, while K.C. Venugopal, who represents Alappuzha, and has been appointed the party General Secretary, Organization, has also said that he will not contest because of his added responsibilities. M.I. Shahnawaz, the sitting member from Wayanad, had passed away last year. Candidates for Alappuzha, Wayanad, Attingal and Vadakara is expected to be announced on Sunday. Expressing his anguish, Thomas, considered close to former Congress President Sonia Gandhi, told media in Delhi that being left out is by far the biggest shock of his life. "Is being 72 years my fault... I do not know what wrong I have done. I have been a seven-time member and no one had given any hint of what has happened now. I have not been told the reason on why I have been left out. No one can make me a curry leaf to be thrown away," said a peeved Thomas, who was a Minister in the second UPA government. Eden said he has just got the information about his nomination and am happy to contest. "I am sure Thomas will be there to guide me through the campaign," he said. Unnithan, a long-time party spokesperson and known for his quick wit, had a quick retort when asked about his chances from Kasargode in north Kerala since he hails from Kollam in the state's south. "I will reach where I have to reach (the Lok Sabha)," he said. Young Remya Haridas, presently president of a local body in her home town, said that she is confident of her chances as she has been working with the people for a while. Imphal, March 17 : Congress President Rahul Gandhi will kick-start the party's poll campaign in Manipur and two other northeastern states next week, party leaders said on Saturday. Gandhi will visit the state on March 19, Congress Legislature Party leader Okram Ibobi and state Congress unit President Gaikhangam told reporters after returning from Delhi. Announcing Gandhi's programme, Gaikhangam said, "Our party President will arrive at Imphal from Arunachal Pradesh on March 19. He is likely to halt the night. He is scheduled to address a public meeting at Hafta Kangjeibung the next day after which he will leave for Tripura." Ibobi, Gaikhangam and some senior leaders of the party had air-dashed to Delhi to finalise the party candidates from the state's two Lok Sabha seats. Ibobi said that the names of the two candidates had been finalised. "However the high command shall make the announcement," he said. Elections to Manipur's two seats will be held in the first (April 11) and second (April 18) phases of the seven-stage Lok Sabha polls. 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AUH - Abu Dhabi International Airport IATA Code and OMAA - Abu Dhabi International Airport ICAO code What Have I Done? A new song release by Darrin Charles I am extremely excited and blessed just to be chosen, and thanking all the judges. Darrin Charles, a music artist from the New Port Richey Florida Area, first single "What Have I Done" was officially selected from thousands of other entries. Once the judges narrowed the field, Darrin's song was included in that group. Entering the competition, Darrin had to compete against a host of other artists, producers, and musicians. Using lyrics that touch on spiritual themes along with everyday situations of life, Darrin takes his place among the rarefied air of songwriters who can probe both secular and spiritual themes. Charles was first recorded in 2003 in a mall kiosk in New Port Richey, Florida. Today, Darrin introduces his song in a market place dominated by artists who are generally under 25, even though Darrin is over forty. Darrin plans to release his new song in the next few months. I am extremely excited and blessed just to be chosen, and thanking all the judges, Darrin said in a late night phone call. "This is a great way to launch a career with his first song, first submission, first music festival and first selection process to be in a festival." In his first song What Have I Done Darrin asks his audience the vital question almost everyone ponders in their heart, How could God love such an imperfect being like me? CEO Joseph A. Camerieri of independent label David and Goliath Publishing, LLC., an executive producer of the song, said, In my circles, people agree with my analogy that its a Spiritual prequel or point of view to the most successful Christian song `I Can Only Imagine' by Mercy Me. I am a huge fan of that song in which it brings tears to my eyes all the time as with Darrins song too." By 2017, Darrin's team had raised enough financing to record the song at Big 3 Studios in St. Petersburg, Florida. Jim Beaman was the producer and Chief engineer and mixer.The recording engineer was Mark Parfitt. The last few years its been tough for Darrin, and this selection is a huge blessing, a light for Darrins path set before him," Camerieri stated. "Thank you to all his band mates and musicians and those judges of the International Christian Film and Music Festival who selected our song for the festival. I think all people should listen to it." Dr. Joel Rosenlicht and Dr. Ryaz Ansari Host Jaw Fixers Implant Synergy Bootcamp This series is designed for implant clinicians to better understand the placement of and newest breakthroughs in full arch dental implants solutions. Oral surgeons in West Hartford and Manchester, CT, Drs. Joel Rosenlicht and Ryaz Ansari are proud to announce that they are launching the JawFixers Implant Synergy Boot Camp. The first course of this dental implant continuing education series is on March 27, 2019. This series is designed for implant clinicians to better understand the placement of and newest breakthroughs in full arch dental implants solutions. An intensive, hands-on training camp, the JawFixers Implant Synergy Boot Camp is a four-part series. In addition to the March date, the boot camp May 8, 2019, and June 19, 2019. The final session will be a live patient case handled in tandem by Drs. Rosenlicht and Ansari and boot camp participants. Full arch dental implants have grown to be frequently requested treatments among patients with multiple missing teeth. Able to restore a full set of teeth in one or both arches, full arch dental implants can return nearly 100 percent of the look, feel, and function once enjoyed with natural, healthy teeth. Some of the advantages of full arch dental implants include denture or bridge stability, improved patient self-confidence, increased patient ability to eat a variety of foods and restored speaking ability. Every full arch dental implant case is unique and requires the creation of an advanced treatment plan. At their offices, Drs. Rosenlicht and Ansari regularly counsel patients on the right dental implant solutions for their needs, such as teeth in a day full arch dental implants. Used in their office and discussed in this course, precise 3D images are captured and combined with advanced digital planning technology to create custom surgical guides for each implant placement. Guided implant surgery not only improves the accuracy of treatment, but also the patient experience. Individuals who are not immediate implant candidates because of untreated gum disease or insufficient bone density may undergo additional treatments to improve their ability to safely receive dental implants. When placed by credential oral surgeons, dental implants can last a lifetime with proper maintenance and care. Adults with a full arch of missing teeth can contact the JawFixers board-certified oral surgeons at their Manchester, CT office by calling at 860-649-2272 or at the West Hartford, CT location, at 860-232-4606. Implant clinicians interested in attending the JawFixers Implant Synergy Boot Camp may also directly contact the practice to register by emailing Dana at dana@jawfixers.com. About the Oral Surgeons The board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons at Jawfixers are skilled specialists offering leading-edge and minimally invasive care at their two practice locations in Manchester, CT and West Hartford, CT. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Joel Rosenlicht is an esteemed author and lecturer and has developed techniques to further his field. Dr. Ryaz Ansari brings a passion for technology and oral surgery with extensive experience in implant therapy and dentoalveolar surgery. Using advanced imaging, Yomi robotic-assisted technology and EXPAREL for opioid-free pain management, this team strives to provide the best care and experience possible for their patients. To learn more about this practice, Drs. Rosenlicht and Ansari or their services, visit http://www.jawfixers.com or call 860-649-2272 for their Manchester, CT office or 860-232-4606 for their West Hartford, CT practice. Sabrina Kautz Sabrina is the rare talent who can both visualize the market opportunity and connect the dots to capture it with customers and consumers, Jason Wadler, JiMMYBAR! Co-CEO. JiMMYBAR!, one of the countrys fastest growing protein bar companies, is excited to announce the hiring of Sabrina Kautz as their new VP of Marketing. With more than 12 years of CPG marketing experience, Sabrina takes a leadership role in the company as they experience unprecedented growth and new product introductions. In her new role, Kautz will lead the companys brand strategy, shopper marketing initiatives, new product development and customer/consumer insights. She and her team will work closely with the digital e-commerce team, led by industry veteran Raj Goswami, to ensure a holistic approach to both consumers and retail partners. JiMMYBAR has grown exponentially since launching four years ago, says Jim Simon, Founder and Co-CEO. Sabrina has tremendous industry and leadership experience that will make the wave were riding even bigger. And shes fun, smart and a badasswere lucky to have her! Kautz spent the last eight years at PepsiCo, most recently leading innovation strategy across the Tropicana brand. In addition to her marketing and innovation roles on Tropicana, she was also an early member of the Sabra team, where she introduced the hummus category into the US market while positioning the Sabra brand as a leader in the category. Previously, Kautz held marketing positions in the beauty industry with Coty Inc and Active Concepts. Sabrina is the rare talent who can both visualize the market opportunity and connect the dots to capture it with customers and consumers, adds Jason Wadler, Co-CEO. With JiMMYBAR now available in over 30,000 locations, her talent will be crucial to ensure we constantly innovate and deliver as we grow our unique brand and cleanly decadent products. Kautz holds an MBA in Marketing and Strategy from the NYU Stern School of Business. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Bucknell University in Chemical Engineering and Psychology. About JiMMYBAR! JiMMYBAR! is one of the fastest growing clean protein bar companies in the country. Founded by a brother (the entrepreneur) and sister (the chef) in Chicago, JiMMYBAR! is on a mission to give every household the cleanest protein bar with a decadent taste and a fun experience. JiMMYBAR uniquely achieves that goal with its chef-curated recipes, innovative flavors and formats, and responsibly sourced ingredients. JiMMYBARs! can be found at 30,000 locations including most major convenience stores including WaWa, Sheetz, 7-11 and Circle K; Whole Foods, Walmart, TJX stores, Cost Plus World Market, and select airports and retailers around the country. Visit http://www.jimmybars.com to learn more and experience the delicious difference. This campaign will educate an audience of young adults, parents and industry executives on the need to prioritize sleep, no matter the age or stage of life, along with the easy changes that make sleep and wellness. Helping to conclude Sleep Awareness Week and kicking off World Sleep Day on March 15, 2019 Mediaplanet today launches the first edition of Sleep and Wellness. This campaign advocates for the increased awareness of health issues resulting from poor sleep and the healthy habits that can increase sleep quality and well-being. This campaign will educate an audience of young adults, parents and industry executives on the need to prioritize sleep, no matter the age or stage of life, along with the easy changes that make sleep and wellness. Insufficient sleep is a problem that plagues more than a third of adults. In the campaign, Dr. Mehmet Oz shares that lack of sleep is the single most underappreciated problem we have in America. This campaign explores different ways to encourage sleep: from understanding Ayurveda, perfecting the sleep environment, finding tools such as meditation to ease stress and using supplements for holistic health. Miranda Kerr lends her voice to this campaign through an exclusive interview. The CEO, supermodel and mother explains how she uses yoga and meditation to keep her balanced during her busy daily routine. We are all faced with different challenges in our day-to-day lives, but its how we deal with them and how we approach the situation that makes the difference, she shares. Its not something that comes easy all the time, but I do make a conscious effort to try to focus on the positives and use challenges as a way of growing and learning. CBDistillery teams up with mixed martial artist champion and busy mom Michelle Waterson to discuss how she finds balance, recovery and relaxation with the use of hemp-derived CBD. Taken in the evenings, CBD, especially the nighttime CBD gummies, allows me to rebalance my body after a long day of training so I can enhance my recovery, she says. The digital version of the campaign is live and can be read at futureofpersonalhealth.com. The print component of Sleep and Wellness is distributed in todays edition of USA Today in New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Chicago, DC/Baltimore, Philadelphia and Atlanta markets, with a circulation of approximately 250,000 copies and an estimated readership of 750,000. The digital component is distributed nationally through a vast social media strategy and across a network of top news sites and partner outlets. To explore the digital version of the campaign, This campaign was made possible with the support of CBDistillery, cbdMD, Miranda Kerr, FOREO, Sahara Rose, Elixinol, the World Sleep Society, Ananda Hemp, Charlottes Web, Jhene Aiko, Montel Williams, IOPI Medical, Layla Sleep, Mima Kids USA, Aethics, Deepak Chopra, Dr. Mehmet Oz, Sweats and the City, Morgan Tyler, Anxiety and Depression Association of America, Cleveland Clinic, The Sleep Doctor, The Stress Detective, American Academy of Sleep Medicine, the Better Sleep Council, the American Heart Association, Mattress Advisor, Keith Cushner, Morgan Tyler and Ritual and Routine. About Mediaplanet Mediaplanet specializes in the creation of content marketing campaigns covering a variety of industries. We tell meaningful stories that educate our audience and position our clients as solution providers. Our unique ability to pair the right leaders with the right readers, through the right platforms, has made Mediaplanet a global content marketing powerhouse. Our award-winning stories have won the hearts of countless readers while serving as a valuable platform for brands and their missions. Just call us storytellers with a purpose. Please visit http://www.mediaplanet.com for more on who we are and what we do. Press Contact: Sara DeFelice sara.defelice@mediaplanet.com (646) 619-0188 Source: January 2019 survey of registered voters, conducted by Morning Consult and commissioned by NACDS The seven-day limit for initial acute-pain opioid prescriptions is consistent with pharmacists' recommendations from the front-lines of care, their collaboration with law enforcement, and the needs of chronic pain sufferers. The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) today welcomed the introduction of legislation that would limit to a seven-day supply the initial prescriptions of opioids for acute pain a move that is consistent with the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions (CDC) guidelines for prescribing opioids. U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner (R-CO) announced the introduction of the legislation, the John S. McCain Opioid Addiction and Prevention Act (S. 724), in a press release that quotes NACDS President & CEO Steven C. Anderson, IOM, CAE: The seven-day limit for initial acute-pain opioid prescriptions is consistent with pharmacists' recommendations from the front-lines of care, their collaboration with law enforcement, and the needs of chronic pain sufferers. Six-in-10 Americans support this measure, with only two-in-10 indicating opposition, according to a January 2019 Morning Consult poll commissioned by NACDS. This bill will help prevent addiction and help prevent unused medications from falling into the wrong hands. Our support reflects pharmacies longstanding commitment to serve as part of the solution. NACDS noted that the opinion research reflects consistent support for this strategic approach across political ideologies, and that support is particularly strong among seniors. Further, seven-in-10 voters support advancing policies that leverage pharmacies role as working partners for stronger and safer communities such as working to address the opioid-abuse epidemic. CDC notes that, for acute pain, three days or less will often be sufficient; more than seven days will rarely be needed. The bill is consistent with one of NACDS priority public policy recommendations to help further address the opioid abuse epidemic. NACDS recommendations relate to initial-prescription limits for acute pain; prescription drug monitoring plans (PDMP); drug disposal; and mandatory electronic prescribing. The legislation would build on the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act (H.R. 6), enacted in 2018, which is consistent with all of NACDS recommendations and which was particularly helpful in requiring electronic prescribing for Schedule II through V controlled substances prescriptions covered under Medicare Part D to help prevent fraud, abuse and waste with limited exceptions to ensure patient access. The legislation also is consistent with the White Houses 2019 National Drug Control Strategy, which NACDS welcomed in February. In addition to advancing its public policy recommendations, NACDS and pharmacies maintain longstanding and ongoing initiatives to prevent opioid abuse, including compliance programs; advancing e-prescribing; drug disposal; patient education; security initiatives; fostering naloxone access; stopping illegal online drug-sellers and rogue clinics; and more. NACDS Chain Pharmacy Community Engagement Report indicates that opioid abuse prevention stands as one of the top priorities for NACDS members among their community engagement initiatives. UNCF (United Negro College Fund) applauds its member institution, Benedict College, for winning the prestigious ACE/Fidelity Investments Award for Institutional Transformation. The award recognizes institutions that have overcome higher education challenges in innovative and creative ways to achieve dramatic changes. The award was presented March 10 to Benedict College President Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis during the American Council on Educations (ACE) 101st Annual Meeting. When I joined Benedict in the fall of 2017, I coined The BEST of BC to acknowledge the colleges rich legacy, and to point toward creating a community of excellence, scholarly achievement, and talent development that embraces technology and innovation, said Artis in a statement released by the college. ACE accepted nominations and applications for the award from any U.S. college or university eligible for ACE membership. The award is divided into two categories: Institutions with student populations of over 5,000 (awarded to the University of South Florida) Institutions with student populations of up to 5,000 (awarded to Benedict College) Dr. Artis and the faculty and staff at Benedict College have proven to be true-to-form innovators of higher education. We commend Benedicts commitment to enhancing student outcomes and for their dedication to ensuring students reap awards afforded by attaining such a high-quality liberal arts education, UNCF President and CEO Dr. Michael L. Lomax commented. In 2017 when Dr. Artis was appointed as president of Benedict College, she focused efforts on developing a five-year strategic sustainability and growth plan. According to the colleges statement, as a result, Benedict lowered tuition, ended open enrollment, supported career development opportunities for students and improved course curriculum to better prepare students for the rigors of the 21st workplace. Under Dr. Artis direction, the college focused on innovation and created a dedicated enrollment management division, increased first-year student support and reduced debt. What Benedict and Dr. Artis have done together is indicative of the challenges that all historically black colleges and universities face. But, given the right leadership and access to resources, colleges and universities of their size can truly deliver impressive results. This award is a great achievement, Lomax added. About UNCF UNCF (United Negro College Fund) is the nations largest and most effective minority education organization. To serve youth, the community and the nation, UNCF supports students education and development through scholarships and other programs, strengthens its 37 member colleges and universities, and advocates for the importance of minority education and college readiness. UNCF institutions and other historically black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding nearly 20 percent of African American baccalaureate degrees. UNCF awards more than $100 million in scholarships annually and administers more than 400 programs, including scholarship, internship and fellowship, mentoring, summer enrichment, and curriculum and faculty development programs. Today, UNCF supports more than 60,000 students at more than 1,100 colleges and universities across the country. Its logo features the UNCF torch of leadership in education and its widely recognized motto, A mind is a terrible thing to waste. Learn more at UNCF.org, or for continuous updates and news, follow UNCF on Twitter at @UNCF. A restless crowd gathers outside the Central Library of the Los Angeles Public Library system in mid-November, puzzled to find the citys most historic library closed on a Wednesday afternoon. These readers wander around the literary fortress nestled between skyscrapers, hoping to discover some secret entrance that everybody else has missed. They are the most hermetic souls in L.A.: writers looking for a literary escape, students seeking a quiet corner, and homeless people searching for an afternoon refuge. Steven Rowley emerges from amid this band of loners, just as confused as everybody else. He tells me that he likes to write at the Central Library and the West Hollywood branch of the public library, hiding away among the shelves. He avoids the crowds in coffee shops, choosing the company of fellow authors instead. Theres something symbolic about being surrounded by fiction when youre writing fiction, he says. Rowley has a long history with libraries. My mother would drop me and my sister off at the library, he says, recalling long summer days growing up in Portland, Maine. Thats where I discovered the joys of reading and getting absolutely lost in a story. Thanks to a staff training event, the Central Library is closed for the rest of the day. So we head a block away to the Library Bar, another downtown literary institution. Every writer has a fond memory of a book party or publisher launch held in this book-lined bar that serves cocktails whose names pun on titles of famous novels: Ready Player Rum, Gone with the Gin, Of Mice and Mezcal, etc. Even in the afternoon, the bar is filled with young and hip Angelinos. Rowley wears his beard neatly trimmed, and his warm grin is immediately recognizable from his Instagram profile picture. Hes friendly and sincere but far more comfortable in the library than a busy cocktail lounge. After college, Rowley struck out on his own, leaving the long winters of Maine for the endless summer in L.A., where he gradually built a career as a screenwriter. He carved out a solitary daily life writing at home and in library stacks, but through it all, he nurtured a long and meaningful relationship with his pet dachshund, Lily. When his beloved companion died at 14, he found himself unmoored by his grief. Rowley channeled those feelings into a novel, Lily and the Octopus (2016), that broke every convention hed learned while writing scripts. The slim, magical book told the story of a writer very much like Rowley, who fights to save his dachshund from an evil octopus that has attached itself to his pets head. The novel transforms the pathos of losing a beloved companion with fantastical flourishes: hilarious conversations with his dog, battles with animated pool toys, and a seafaring adventure straight out of Moby-Dick. The book began as an intensely personal project that Rowley thought he might self-publish, but thanks to the help of his freelance editor Molly Lindley, the manuscript would up on the desk of Simon & Schuster editor Karyn Marcus. What happened next is, as the Publishers Weekly story about the deal explained, the stuff of literary fairy tales, as the debut novel landed a nearly seven-figure advance and made a surprise run on the bestseller charts. Everyones like, Oh, youre an overnight success, Rowley says. But they didnt see the 15 years of writing and not getting off the ground that goes into it. No one ever talks about that! Lily and the Octopus depended on the support of two great editors, and Rowleys second novel, The Editor, due out in April from Putnam, pays tribute to these literary parental figures who help writers survive the years of struggle leading up to overnight success. The Editor tells the story of a gay writer named James Smale, who experiences his own literary fairy tale while living in New York City during the 1990s: his debut novel gets acquired by former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis during her tenure as a Doubleday editor, which lasted from 1978 until her death in 1994. Kennedy Onassis started as an editor at Viking in the 1970s, beginning her editorial career with Remember the Ladiesa book about the accomplishments of 18th-century women, written to accompany a traveling show for the U.S. bicentennial. She left Viking in 1975 to join Doubleday. Her list at the publisher included ballet dancer Gelsey Kirklands Dancing on My Grave and Louis Auchinclosss False Dawn: Women in the Age of the Sun King, among others. In many respects, I think this is the most interesting time of her life, but Ive never seen it represented in pop culture, Rowley says, explaining why the concept stuck in his imagination. The hard part about writing Jackie as a character is that everyone has a preconceived idea of who she was. But this is a time in her life that was not really seen, so theres a little bit of wiggle room to create some magic. The novellike Kennedy Onassiss careerspans a period of consolidation and transition for the publishing industry. In 1986, Doubleday was sold to the German communications company Bertelsmann. At the moment young James publishes his novel with Kennedy Onassis, Doubleday is in the process of moving its editorial offices into 1540 Broadway, finally assimilating into the Bertelsmann mothership. Rowley began his career in this tumultuous literary environment of the mid-1990s, working at an L.A. literary agency for his first job after college. I stepped in at the moment when the business was in flux, he says, recalling worries about the demise of book parties, the diminishing celebrity cache of authors, and the eventual rise of e-books. This was the beginning of the idea that there might not be books anymore. Thanks to the ongoing forces of incorporation, the book has endured, and Rowleys own novel is now part of the same conglomerate that once absorbed Doubleday: Putnam is now an imprint of the Penguin Random House. Even though a book deal with Kennedy Onassis seems like a dream come true for a young writer, Rowleys fictional hero soon finds himself struggling to meet his editors expectations and faces the wrath of his mother, a formidable woman who doesnt appreciate the fact that Jamess novel exposes family secrets. Rowley is reckoning with his own story through this fictional conflict. Lily and the Octopus blended autobiography and magical realism, and some people in his life were unhappy with the way they were portrayed. In The Editor, Rowley finds moving ways to resolve these professional and family tensions. When James reaches the end of his publishing journey in the novel, Rowley pays tribute to the supportive parents and visionary publishing professionals in his life. Editors are mothers of sorts, he writes in The Editor, connecting his life-changing bond with literary guardians to family relationships in what he calls a tip of the hat to those who shepherded his talent. In January, Follett, a leading provider of materials, technology, and services in the K12 library space, launched its new Genre Solutions service, designed to help librarians and media specialists who want to genrefy their libraries by classifying some or all of their books by genre, rather than by the traditional Dewey Decimal classification system. Genre Solutions is in part the result of the work done by a 27-member Genrefication Advisory Board assembled by Follett last year. The group met for the first time in April 2018 during the Texas Library Association Annual Conference in Dallas. According to Nader Qaimari, president of Follett School Solutions, the idea behind the advisory board was to find a more streamlined way for his company to assist librarians. The advisory board was brought together to see if it would be possible to create some standards around genrefication so that more libraries would be able to take advantage of it and not feel lost in starting the process, he says. We were beginning to handle one-off requests for libraries around genrefication, going in and doing the work for them, and we realized that was a little chaotic. Though each library was saying, and rightfully so, that they wanted to customize things for the needs of their demographics and their community, we were seeing a lot of similarities. Qaimari says that the board proved there is an appetite and a willingness to at least start with a standard list, knowing that theres going to be customization at the school or district level. He adds, We picked people who had gone through this process themselves and had a lot of opinions about it, and we had a really good group that helped us develop a lot of things. Journeys in Genrefying The board, in partnership with Folletts in-house team of librarians, evaluated more than a thousand genrefied libraries using custom genre solutions from the company. The board also offered feedback on the usefulness and look of various genrefication tools to help refine them. The result is the substantial Genre Solutions package, which includes access to a preselected list of Follett genres; enhancements to Titlewave (a collection development tool) and Destiny (a library management system); do-it-yourself genrefication starter kits; labels; cataloging and processing customization; signage; genre consulting; and a Genre Best Practices guide. Board member Fran Glick, coordinator of library media programs and digital resources for Baltimore County Public Schools in Maryland, says she was invited to join the group as a result of her districts pioneering moves in genrefication as well as a strong, longtime partnership with Follett. Our intrepid library media specialist Sandy Bixby approached our leadership team in 2014 and requested permission to genrefy the collection at her school, Glick recalls. We were excited by her leadership and willingness. We supported her efforts and challenged her to document and share her experience, which she did in her blog, Bixbys Bookshelves. Her willingness braved the way for others, and, as of today, 60% of our 165 school libraries have embraced this change. Teaming with Follett was familiar to Glick. They are so much more than a vendor to us, she says. We brainstorm and we think about big ideas together. We have a willingness to solve problems for the benefit of students. Glick notes that she informed Follett of Bixbys genrefication efforts along the way and we talked with them about what we had to do to manipulate Destiny, which is their catalogue system, to make a genrefied library work. She adds, In order to put some meat on that bone, we invited them to come out for a visit. The advisory board is composed of librarians representing large school districts, such as Glick, and also individual librarians, including Rachel Grover, a middle school librarian in Northern Virginia. Grover was inspired to embark on her classification journey after tackling the topic as a research project while earning her library degree in 2014. She put her research into action when she landed her first librarian job that same year and began genrefying her fiction collection. Mine was the first school in my district to have a genrefied fiction collection, Grover says. She created her own signage and other tools along the way because there was nothing available, she says. I had nothing to go on besides my research and a couple of blogs. Grover cites Louisiana librarian Tiffany Whitehead and her blog, Mighty Little Librarian, as an indispensable resource. Once the transition was made, we doubled circulation that first year, and it has never gone back down, Grover says. Its been higher each year since. Classification Debates Genrefication has been the subject of great debate among librarians for more than a decade. But the discussion picked up steam in 2012 and early 2013 when it was raised in a statement of concern by the Kansas Association of School Librarians and then was presented as a hot topic program during ALA Midwinter in Seattle in 2013. There are passionate voices for and against the practice. Proponents claim that genrefication provides easier self-directed browsing and better discoverability, better readers advisory, increased circulation and reading, and a more enjoyable user experience for students. Those who oppose genrefication argue, among other points, that the classification is more confusing to some students and does not prepare them to use public and academic libraries, and that it helps devalue the role of the librarian. It is still a polarizing discussion sometimes, Qaimari says. But ultimately well have to see how circulation and student satisfaction play out over time to see if this is something that will continue to have legs. Our hunch is that it will, but the data ultimately will be the proof. Qaimari maintains that the heart of any tension is not truly about genre vs. Dewey. There is a fear in the library profession that certain things that really define libraries are being taken away, he says. The situation is made more complicated by the emergence of paraprofessionals and, in some cases, even parent volunteers trying to do the librarians job, Qaimari says. Librarians feel that moving away from the things that were always cornerstones of library school and of the profession is going to make it easier for them to be displaced, and I think theres some merit to that, he says. Deep down, many people probably think genres are an interesting approach. I think if the profession was solid and got tremendous support, as it should, this wouldnt even be a discussion. As part of the pro-genrefication camp, Glick notes, I feel that, for the greater good of encouraging kids to read and enjoy things and find things that appeal to them, theres no argument. I think, on a national level, the community has much more readily embraced this. She says that back in 2014, we were on the edge of this work, and five years later no one bats an eye when you say, Were genrefying. You dont even have to explain it anymore. And for anyone on the fence about trying to genrefy, Grover offers a supportive assessment: Its worth every moment. Its worth every frustration, because at the end of the day, its really about the kids. It makes them more effective in their library, so why would you not? They say everything is bigger in Texas, and that certainly applies to the number of bills filed in the Texas Legislature. More than 8,300 bills and resolutions have been filed for the current session, and one bill has already been a major victory for the states school librarians, whether it eventually passes or not. In January, Texas senator Jane Nelson introduced a bill seeking $5,000 raises for all full-time classroom teachers in the state, at a cost of $3.7 billion. Lawmakers, and Gov. Greg Abbott, said they wanted to open the new legislative session with a statement about the value of teachers. There was just one problem: the bill omitted the states roughly 4,600 school librarians. Leaving school librarians out of the bill understandably troubled leaders at the Texas Library Association. Surely it wasnt about money, right? After all, the extra funding needed to include school librarians was a mere rounding error in the multibillion-dollar bill. So the Texas Library Association got to work. Weeks later, on March 4, the Texas Senate unanimously passed an amended SB3, with school librarians included. When reporters from the Austin American Statesman asked Nelson why librarians were excluded from the original billeven though school librarians in Texas teach regularly, are required to earn masters degrees, and must have teaching experience to work in a school libraryNelsons response was instructive: I didnt know that, she said. Behold, the power of advocacy. TLA president Jennifer LaBoon, coordinator of library technology for the Fort Worth Independent School District, tells PW that she and her colleagues are elated by the outcome. And its not just because there could be a $5,000 raise in the offing if the bill passes the state House of Representatives and is signed into law. Our advocacy efforts paid off, LaBoon says, adding that those efforts included trips to the state capitol to testify, letters to the editor, radio interviews, newspaper articles, tweets, calls, and emails. Theres a long way to go from here, but no matter what happens with this bill, the affirmation that we were heard, and included, has already had a profound impact on school librarians: the Texas Senate has unanimously recognized that school librarians are, in fact, teachers. Big, and Bright Winning the unanimous endorsement of the state Senate (as well as a potential raise for school librarians) is not a bad way to generate enthusiasm ahead of the 2019 TLA Annual Conference, set for April 1518 in Austin. And its another sign that the stars are aligning to make this years event one of the associations most highly attended conferences to date. Austin is already a popular destination, famous for its food, music, and culture. It also happens to be in a part of the state packed with librarians. And, of course, its the state capitaland this year, the Texas Legislature, which meets every two years, is in session. Of course, a look at the numbers shows that the TLA Annual Conference draws well every year, no matter which city is hosting. TLA is the nations largest, most engaged state library association by a Texas mile, and after years of consistent growth, the TLA Annual Conference is now on par with a number of national meetings, including the ALAs annual Midwinter Meeting, drawing more than 7,000 attendees and some 450 exhibitors each year. Texas boasts the biggest and best state library association for many reasonsone being the fact that we are unified under one umbrella with a singular mission: to serve the library workers of our state, LaBoon says. Were stronger together. And by leveraging the sheer numbers and commitment of our membership, we are a powerful force. No question, TLA is big. The association is composed of four divisions spread out over 10 districts statewide. The TLA presidency rotates among the divisions (school librarians, academic librarians, public librarians, and special librarians, such as those who work in corporate libraries). There are also some 30 active roundtables and numerous other discussion groups. And TLA members participate in a range of programming throughout the year, from district meetings across the state to webinars on important topics and leadership training institutes. the Texas Senate has unanimously recognized that school librarians are, in fact, teachers. LaBoon says she has always been drawn to advocacy work and credits her TLA mentors with encouraging her involvement with the association. Each president in TLA has a different path, she says. But advocacy work has always been a love of mine. I grew up in a politically minded family. I met my husband through a political group in college. My TLA mentors just so happened to be very involved in legislative work, so I just followed them and dove in myself. As evidenced by the success of SB3, TLA has a solid track record in its advocacy efforts, which are a key part of the associations work and require constant attention, engagement, and evaluation, and not just when the legislature is in session. For example, LaBoon says, TLA made a difficult decision several years ago to cut TLAs state Legislative Day, despite its popularity, in favor of more cost-effective ways to provide advocacy trainingsuch as webinars, articles, and sessions at conferences and district meetings. The TLA is also intimately familiar with the ever-evolving (if unwritten) rules of effective advocacy in the statehouse. In a state like Texas, LaBoon says, we know the approach we take is as important as the volume of our voices. LaBoon says TLAs approach with SB3 was straightforward: keep the message succinct and consistent. There are so many opportunities to get in the weeds on this sort of bill, and we stayed out of them. Our message was that librarians are teachers, and that they teach the state curriculum in the biggest classroom of the school. Each and Every Texan Another key task that falls to the TLA president: chairing the large, and very busy, committee that plans the TLA conference programan intensive but rewarding commitment. It is so exciting to see all of it take shape, LaBoon says, with her conference program, over a year in the making, now just weeks away. So many brilliant and creative people work hard to make this happen. It has been a treat to work alongside them. This years TLA conference is highly anticipated, and not just because its in a famously fun city. It will feature a host of new components that organizers expect to be hits with TLA membership, including a one-day program for museum professionals and archivists and the return of TLAs School Library Administrators Conference. And new for this year, the TLAs first-ever Comic Book Day, on April 17, and a TLA After Hours event on the evening of April 15. Each of these will give our 2019 conference a unique spin on our tried-and-true conference format, LaBoon says. Meanwhile, TLA president-elect Cecilia Barham is already hard at work with the committee on the 2020 TLA conference program. My theme is A Vision for All Texans, and were hoping to put together an amazing conference for Houston, Barham says, adding that her program, and indeed her presidency, draws inspiration from TLAs stated mission of helping each and every Texan recognize the value of libraries. Especially, she explains, the each and every part. I thought, breaking that down, what does that mean, each and every? she says. What does that look like? One of my goals is to focus on equity, diversity, and inclusionnot only how are we ensuring that within our profession but within our communities. And, Barham says, the committees focus on diversity begins with how it is approaching its own work. What we wanted was to see some standards and criteria on how to incorporate diversity and inclusion throughout the entire conference, not just by including specific, separate programs that stand alone, to check a box, but to really ensure that the entire program, each program, is comprehensively diverse. So we came up with some guidelines that were going to share with all the TLA units as they do their planning. Specifically, the committee created a questionnaire for conference programmers, called Considerations for Building Diverse and Inclusive Programming, that is essentially a series of questions for planners to keep in mind while putting together their events. For example, what percentage of the panel represents a diverse community? Barham explains. Are you addressing diversity and inclusion for the sake of diversity and inclusion as a topic, or is it integrated into the program? Is there a variation in age and gender represented on your panel? It doesnt mean that every program has to have a yes to all of these questions, but it at least guides people into thinking more comprehensively about diversity and inclusion in our programming. Like LaBoon, Barham has long been engaged with TLA, which she says has been both personally and professionally enriching. And her role as president-elect, and her role in programming the annual conference, has opened her eyes even further to the power of TLA. Getting to engage with so many TLA members from everywhereits just been so interesting to see peoples passions and commitment, she says. Ive always appreciated it. But now I have this whole different level of appreciation, because so many people want to serve our organization. TLA Program Highlights This years TLA conference will feature more than 700 speakers, 500 educational sessions, 200 authors, and more than 450 exhibiting companies, and a number of new programs are sure to have attendees buzzing. Keynotes As usual, the TLA Annual Conference features a star-studded lineup of authors and speakers. This years Opening Author session (Tues., Apr. 16, 1:15 p.m.) will feature Katherine Hall Page, author of the Faith Fairchild Mysteries, whose new book, The Body in the Wake (HarperCollins), will be out this summer, and Ben Mezrich, whose forthcoming Bitcoin Billionaires: A True Story of Genius, Betrayal, and Redemption (Flatiron) will be published in May. Among the General Session speakers is veteran journalist (and proud Texan) Scott Pelley (Thurs., Apr. 18, 8 a.m.). Best known for his work on 60 Minutes and as anchor and managing editor of CBS Evening News, Pelley has been a reporter and photographer more than 45 years. Pelleys inspirational memoir, Truth Worth Telling: A Reporters Search for Meaning in the Stories of Our Times (Hanover Square), comes out in May. And this years Closing Author Session will feature Meg Medina (Thurs., Apr. 18, 11:45 a.m.). Medina won the 2019 Newbery Medal for Merci Suarez Changes Gears (Candlewick). The Bluebonnets A highlight of every TLA conference is the Texas Bluebonnet Awards luncheon (Weds., Apr. 17, noon). The Texas Bluebonnets are a nationally recognized childrens choice award program designed to encourage reading for pleasure among students in grades three through six. Each year, 20 books are chosen for the master list by a selection committee; if students read a minimum of five books from the master list, they can vote for their favorite title during January of each year. The 2019 winner is Patricia McCormick, for Sergeant Reckless: The True Story of the Little Horse Who Became a Hero (HarperCollins). McCormick will accept the award, presented by student representatives, during the luncheon. New for 2019 TLA After Hours Librarians in the Austin area who are stuck at workbecause somebody has to staff the librarywhile everyone else is at TLA can join their colleagues at the first-ever TLA After Hours on Monday, April 15, at 7 p.m. The event, described as programming at a casual pace, will offer a mix of 15 sessions and fun activities, including a Lip Sync Battle and a talk by writer, comedian, and actor Thomas Lennon, author of Ronan Boyle & the Bridge of Riddles (Amulet). Museum Day On Tuesday, April 16, TLA is partnering with the Texas Association of Museums to feature programs focused on excellence in museum services. Colleen Dilenschneider (from IMPACTS Research & Development and the Know Your Own Bone blog) will present two such programs, and others will feature discussions on copyright, preserving memorials, engaging exhibits, managing special collections, and handling artifacts. Comic Book Day On Wednesday, April 17, at 4 p.m., TLA will feature a full program on graphic novels and comics, superheroes, Harry Potter, Dungeons and Dragons, and how to incorporate these genres, series, and activities into libraries. The event will also feature a cosplay fashion show and contest. Welcome to PWs third special report on the Chinese childrens book market. Here, we talk with eight Chinese publishers about the challenges, opportunities, and the future of the industry, and check out the markets blooming interest in books on plants. We also look at the titles that inspire four of the publishers, and chat with Bai Bing (of Jieli Publishing House) on his writings, as well as with Zhang Mingzhou (of the International Board on Books for Young People) about his organizations role in China. Our coverage also includes listings of new original titles that these 8 publishers are bringing to the upcoming Bologna Book Fair. Note: This supplement was published with the support of the publishers covered below. Childrens Books in China 2019: A Special Report The Chinese Childrens Book Market Is Still on a Roll The Role of IBBY in the Chinese Childrens Book Market Four Chinese Publishers Discuss Titles That Inspire Them Bai Bing on Finding Ideas and the Time to Write The Blooming Interest in Books About Plants A Showcase of New Original Works from China Profile of 8 Childrens Publishers in Alphabetical Order: Anhui Childrens Publishing House Beijing Dandelion Childrens Book House China Childrens Press & Publication Group China Welfare Institute Publishing House Everafter Books Publishing House Jieli Publishing House Kids Media Thinkingdom Childrens Books Read the whole supplement in the Scribd reader below: Children's Books in Chi... by on Scribd In 2008, Turkey was the guest of honor at the Frankfurt Book Fair, and that momentarily gave the countrys writers and publishing industry international attention. Five years later, Turkey was guest of honor at the London Book Fair. Nevertheless, the vast majority of Turkish writers remain largely unknown in the U.S. Nobel Prizewinner Orhan Pamuk and novelist Elif Shafak are international stars, but there are few others. This despite the astonishing rise in Turkeys overall book production, from 12,500 titles in 2002 to 67,000 in 2018. Turkeys publishing market is estimated to be the 11th largest in the world, with annual revenue of $2.5 billion and annual sales of some 600 million copies. It is our challenge to introduce ourselves to the international community, said Mustafa Dogru, president of the board of directors of the Turkish Press and Publishers Copyright and Licensing Society, during a recent panel discussion. We have a long history and a rich literary tradition and culture but are isolated by our language. The panel was on international publishing topics and was part of the Fourth Istanbul Fellowship, a program that gathered 286 publishing professionals, including some 200 from 72 different countries (and the rest from Turkey), for three days of talks, panels, and one-on-one rights meetings. Invited guests included agents such as Larissa Helena of Pippin Properties in New York, and publishers including Emma Raddatz from Archipelago Books, Gigi Ishmael from the Ishmael Tree, and Dennis Johnson from Melville House. Turkey has long been regarded as a strong market for rights sales, and nearly 20% of the titles published there are translations. Though the bestseller lists are dominated by Turkish titles, the list also reflects international tastes, says Ozgur Emir, foreign rights director of Dogan Kitap, Turkeys second-largest trade publisher. Emir points to Yuval Harari, Marie Kondo, and Haruki Murakami as recent bestselling authors. A strong-selling title might move 20,000 copies [in a year], while bestsellers will reach 40,000 to 50,000 in sales, he says. Emir acknowledges that convincing American publishers to translate Turkish titles is a challenge, though he has had some success in the past and points to Zulfu Livaneli, who has been published by St. Martins Press, as the type of author who could break through in the U.S. Livanelis novel Huzursuzluk has sold 600,000 copies here in Turkey since it was published in 2017, he says. It is about a journalists journey to the Syrian border and a relationship he has with a woman there. In Turkey, we have more than three million Syrian refuges, and it is also an important topic to the rest of the world. We have sold rights in 30 countries, but not the United States. Nazli Berivn Ak, an editor at April publishing house in Istanbul, observes that Turkey, like other countries, has its own peculiarities. We bought the rights to Pretty Little Mistakes, a Choose Your Own Adventurestyle novel by Heather McElhatton, and it took off, she says. So we published eight more Choose Your Own Adventurestyle novels and sold 350,000 copies of them. Likewise, thriller writer Adam Fawers The Improbable has sold one million copies for us. We published his latest novel, Oz, in Turkey before it was published in English." For her part, Ak is trying to lure foreign rights buyers for two titles: Murat Mentess Ruhi Mucerret, an adventure novel that has sold 350,000 copies in Turkey, and Afsin Kums Sicak Kafa, a dystopian thriller that has sold 25,000 copies. Childrens publishing also has potential to offer breakthrough books for the foreign rights market, says Asli Schaeferdiek of the Silva Literary Agency. We have a series by Aytul Akal called Grumpie Auntie that looks at the friendship between an old woman and a young girl. It is incredibly popular and has sold over 800,000 copies. Childrens books are a significant part of the local market and account for some 9,00010,000 titles published annually and 14% of sales. English is the most popular language from which material is sourced, says Melike Gunyuz of Ibn Haldun University, as it often serves as an intermediary language from other languages. Participants at the Istanbul summit were pleased with the hospitality and the professionalism of the events. Its amazing that they have the generosity to do this, says Olivia Lima, editor at SM Brazil. It is unlikely I would have had the opportunity to interact directly with so many Turkish publishers and others from around the world. Several attendees note that the size and makeup of the group, which was composed mostly of participants from small- and medium-size publishers from a very electric range of countries, was similar to that of the fellowship program run by the Sharjah International Book Fair. Throughout the program, the organizers encouraged participants to sign memoranda of understanding, if not outright contracts. Though few publishers say that they entered into outright deals, many say that they are coming away with the intention of researching opportunities. I was able to forge new relationshipsones that were different from what I have been able to do at the big fairs, says Gvantsa Jobava, chair of the Georgian Publishers and Booksellers Association. Our goal is simple, Dogru says. We want to become a gateway for the international rights trade. Like Istanbul itselfwhich sits on the border between Asia and Europewe think we are in a perfect position to do so. This article was updated on March 18 with new information. NEW CHAMPIONS CROWNED, WORLD TITLE GOES 60 MINUTES AND MORE: COMPLETE RING OF HONOR 17th ANNIVERSARY PPV COVERAGE Welcome to PWInsider.com's live, ongoing Ring of Honor 17th Anniversary PPV coverage from Las Vegas as SamsTown Casino. The PPV opened with a video feature on Matt Taven going for the ROH title against Jay Lethal. The announce team is Ian Riccaboni, Caprice Coleman and NWA Champion Nick Aldis. Colt Cabana is over touring for New Japan Pro Wrestling. Marty Scurll vs. Kenny King. King was accompanied by someone dressed like Scurll, doing his mannerisms. Marty sent King to the floor, where he nailed a superkick off the apron, then superkicked the Marty impersonator as well. They exchanged chops in the corner. Scurll gained the early control but was caught with a twisting kick to the head. King nailed a springboard off the ropes into a Blockbuster for a two count. King pulled him up into a Firemans Carry into a Blue Thunder Bomb for a two count. King worked over Scurlls mid-section, then nailed a Beel toss before playing to the camera. King locked in a kneedrop and cinched in a chinlock, trying to wear Scurll down. He drove Scurll over his knee with a backbreaker and continued to work him over on the mat. King sent Marty to the floor but missed a pescado. Scurll hit a tornado DDT off the apron to the floor. Scurll rolled King back into the ring and nailed him with a series of right hands. Scurll nailed a clothesline and played to the crowd. King went for a full nelson but Scurll escaped and reversed. King reversed as well but was caught in a half Dragon suplex then a Villain-bomb for a two count. Scurll unleashed a series of offensive maneuvers and scored several two counts. King used a legsweep and kicked Scurll in the mid-section, scoring a two count. King started jawing with the crowd, which allowed Scurll the change to reverse an Irish whip. King caught him and nailed a spinebuster for a two count. Scurll had enough and slapped him. They went into a series of reversals and two counts but it didnt have the intensity youd expect. Scurll finally nailed a superkick and went to snap Kings fingers. King used a kick to escape and they battled to ringside. King hit a move off the apron, taking down Scurll. Scurll was tossed into the ring but was cut off King on the top. He nailed a superplex but pulled up King at the one count and nailed a Royal Flush. They battled back to the floor, where King placed Scurll in a chair and chopped away at him. King tried to bring the chair into the ring but referee Paul Turner stopped him. While Turner was removing the chair, Scurll nailed King with his umbrella and scored the pin. Your winner, Marty Scurll! This was OK. They had some nice moments but it didnt feel like it got out of first gear. Scurll has obviously been working on tightening his physique and it shows. There was never really any doubt who was going to win here, which took away from the drama. King worked really hard and is underrated as a heel. ROH TV Champion Jeff Cobb vs. Shane Taylor. Taylor was jaw-jacking before the bell and Cobb went right after him at the bell. They began brawling and Taylor nailed a big side suplex on The Champ, who popped right back up. They went blow for blow until Cobb nailed a back suplex on Taylor, who also rose to his feet. Nice opening moments! The crowd chanted for Cobb as they went at it, trying to manhandle the other without success. Cobb leapfrogged Taylor and drilled him with a dropkick. Taylor rebounded with a Pounce that rocked Cobb. Taylor whipped him hard into the buckles. Cobb went down on his knees, where he was beaten with chops. The announcers put over Taylor hard for taking the fight so hard to Cobb. Cobb fired back with chops and a headbutt. He fired against Taylor with uppercuts. Cobb beat him with a forearm over the chest. Taylor fired back but was knocked to the floor. Cobb followed but was nailed. Taylor hit a flip off the apron onto Cobb. Taylor missed a cannonball in the corner. They met in the center of the ring, chopping away at each other. Cobb grabbed Taylor for a Pumphandle suplex and nailed it. Given Taylors size, that looked damn impressive. The crowd popped big for it. Taylor was covered but kicked up at the last second. Taylor caught Cobb going for a kick, sent him down to the mat and nailed a running knee strike for a two count. Taylor went for a back suplex but Cobb reversed. Cobb went for a right hand but Taylor rocked him first. They exchanged clotheslines with Cobb scoring a harsh one that wiped out Taylor. The momentum took Cobb out of the ring to the floor. Taylor rose to his feet and Cobb climbed back into the ring. They went nose to nose, battling with strikes and chops. Taylor tried to slam Cobb who escaped and nailed a big uppercut in the corner. Taylor went to the top but was caught with a dropkick while on the ropes. Cobb set up for a superplex. Taylor fought him off but Cobb caught him and slammed him across the ring for a two count. Cobb nailed a standing moonsault press for a two count. Taylor regained control and nailed a Judo Toss. He went to the top and nailed a splash off the ropes for a two count. Cobb slapped him hard and nailed a back suplex with a bridge for a close two count. Taylor came back to nail a clothesline that sent Cobb inside out, then drilled him with a Canadian Destroyer for a close two count. Cobb caught Taylor out of nowhere with Tour of the Islands but Taylor rose before Cobb could score a pinfall attempt. Cobb nailed another and scored the pin. Your winner and still ROH TV Champion, Jeff Cobb! This was an entertaining big mans match as they really took it to each other and pulled out some moves that realistically, they shouldnt be able to do at their size. Cobb is a hell of a hand and Taylor really worked hard here. Hes really tried to improve over the last year and you could see that shining through here. This may have gone a little too long but the intensity here was a lot of fun. Women of Honor Champion Mayu Iwatani vs. Kelly Klein. Klein gained control early against Iwatani, working her over in the corner. They noted that Iwatani has a damaged ligament in her knee. Klein took her to the mat and drilled her with a series of forearms. Iwatani made a comeback with a pair of Slingblades. Klein nailed a strike to the mid-section but Iwatani nailed several kicks and took her to the mat for a two count. Iwatani stepped over her and came off the ropes with a double stomp. Iwatani covered the challenger for another near fall. She nailed a superkick to Kleins face. She dared Klein to strike her and Kelly obliged. Klein stomped away at her. Tempers flared and they battled with forearms and punches. Klein sent the Champion to the floor. Iwatani, frustrated, nailed a back suplex but Klein responded by dropping the WOH Champion on the back of her head with a big back suplex. They began scrapping on the mat. Iwatani slammed Klein and nailed a moonsault off the ropes, then went for a second one, took too long and Klein pulled her knees up. Klein nailed TKO variation for a two count. It looked like it was going to be a three count but Iwatani got her shoulder up. Klein nailed a clothesline. Klein went to grab Iwatani but was snatched into a small package for a three count. Your winner and still Women of Honor Champion, Mayu Iwatani! Coverage continues on Page 2! If you enjoy PWInsider.com you can check out the AD-FREE PWInsider Elite section, which features exclusive audio updates, news, our critically acclaimed podcasts, interviews and more by clicking here! Conflicts, both in Afghanistan as well as at home, will continue to have both a complex civilian and military character. When the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) finally closed shop in Afghanistan in 2014, many participating nations professed a weariness with complex, civil-military, out-of-area operations. These operations demanded close, often awkward, relationships of cooperation, co-existence, and confrontation between different civil and military actors, including local civilians. Amid the withdrawal, many militaries and their defense departments seemed to express a collective sigh of relief, talking about a return' to strictly military priorities and operations. The focus shifted to near area' operations and security concerns at home. However two related problems remain: 1. It is very difficult to claim Afghanistan can be characterized as a success story as a functioning state for and with its people. Given the enormous effort, the outcome is nothing short of a disaster. We need more self-reflection as to why that is. 2. The civilian role in conflict is still sorely neglected a perilous oversight for both understanding what happened in past operations but also for future conflict scenarios. There is a lot to learn from the civil-military relationships in Afghanistan. The comprehensive construction and upgrade of new airfields in the high Arctic has been practically completed and we are flying there and back, says Mayor General Igor Kozhin, leader of the Russian Naval Air Force. Russia has over the last years invested heavily in military bases all over its wide-stretched Arctic, and there are now potent forces deployed all the way from the westernmost archipelago of Franz Josef Land to the Wrangle Island near the Bering Strait. In addition comes the bases on Novaya Zemlya, Severnaya Zemlya and the New Siberian Island. New bases and air fields are also located on the Arctic mainland, from the Kola Peninsula to Cape Shmidt in the Chukotka Peninsula. The new base in Tiksi, was started in fall 2018 and is planned completed already in the course of the first half year of 2019. 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 Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Tourism Association Vu The Binh speaking at the press conference At a press conference in Hanoi on March 13, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Tourism Association Vu The Binh said exhibitors from the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) and Peru will join the event for the first time. This is the first time DPRK takes part in the outbound tourism event, but so far products of the market have not yet been announced. The introduction of DPRK tourism aims to provide information about the country and people to Vietnam, through that, travel businesses and Vietnamese travelers will have more information about a new destination, he added. The event looks to popularize ecological, community-based, and agricultural tourism products; as well as environmental protection and climate change adaptation initiatives in the field. Firms and state management agencies will have a chance to discuss green tourism and the role of the environment in the future of the sector. As planned, the Vietnam national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines and Jetstar Pacific will launch a major promotion program with more than 100,000 low-cost fares and 18,000 package tours. The mart is expected to attract 1,000 visitors/. he popular Christmas tradition features 16 nativity scenes telling the birth of the King of Kings across five different Long Beach churches. By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 03/15/2019 ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. , We're sorry, this article is not currently available Visiting Israeli professor : Investigations into actions of Bonn police closed Bonn Following the attack on an Israeli visiting professor at the Hofgarten in Bonn, the public prosecutor's office has closed its investigation of four police officers who responded to the call and mistakenly thought the professor was the attacker. Teilen Teilen Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Tweeten Tweeten Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Drucken The public prosecutor's office has closed the investigation into an incident concerning four policemen who wrestled a Jewish professor down to the ground in the Hofgarten in July 2018. The announcement was made on Friday by attorney Christoph Arnold, who represents two of the police officers. Initially, a man with Palestinian roots had attacked the professor, knocking the kippah off his head. Automatic Pizza has quickly become a hot spot for Normaltown and Boulevard residents. When Automatic initially opened, the community rushed in so quickly to get their slice of Automatic that they ran out of dough. (Photo/Timothy DeWitt) Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath expressed confidence that the BJP will win over 74 out of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state. Asserting that Priyanka Gandhi's entry into politics will make "no difference" to the Bharatiya Janata Party's prospects in the Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh, chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday dubbed it an "internal matter" of that party. He also dismissed as "false alarm" the Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party alliance and claimed that it was already embroiled in dispute. "The Congress has made her (Priyanka) the party general secretary (in-charge of eastern UP) this time. It is an internal matter of that party as to how it will utilise her services. "Earlier too, she had campaigned for the Congress. And this time too she is the party's campaigner and it will make no difference (to the BJP)," he told PTI in his first interview after announcement of the Lok Sabha poll schedule on Sunday. Asked as to what extent the SP-BSP alliance could dent the BJP's prospects in the hustings, Adityanath said, "The fledgling SP-BSP alliance is already embroiled in dispute." He was referring to reports of hard bargaining between the two parties over certain seats. "It (alliance) is nothing but a 'hauaa' (false alarm)," the chief minister said in his exclusive interview during which he touched upon various key issues including the Indina Air Force airstrikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Ram temple. The 46-year-old saffron robed monk-turned-politician said in general elections state-level local issues hardly matter. "People will vote for that person and party in whose hands the country is safe, secure and prosperous," he said, adding the voters know this very well. "An effort is being made to whip up an unnecessary confusion and 'hauaa'," the BJP hardliner said, adding the current polls will present a "golden opportunity" for his party, which will come out with flying colours. Referring to the IAF air strikes targeting terror camps inside Pakistan on February 26, Adityanath said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken "bold steps" as and when needed in the interest of the country. After the Pulwama terror attack which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel, all accused were eliminated by India, catapulting the nation to an elite club of countries that are capable of giving a befitting reply to its enemies, he said. "This is the sign of an efficient and competent leadership." "Modiji began with smashing insurgent hideouts in the northeast (Myanmar border) and followed up such strong measures in the aftermath of the Uri terror attack demolishing terror bases across the LoC in one go," Adityanath said. He said by carrying out the pre-dawn anti-terror airstrikes on February 26, India has isolated Pakistan in the international arena and also made New Delhi's strategic prowess felt all over the world. "We can say that India has emerged as a global superpower under the strong leadership of PM Modi," Adityanath said. Asked whether these national security issues will be relevant among people in rural areas, who form a bulk of the electorate, he said every section of the society was aware of issues such as "development, good governance and nationalism". On whether the anti-terror airstrikes in Pakistan's Balakot have overshadowed the Ram temple issue in Ayodhya, he said, "Every child knows the importance of Lord Ram and considers him a role model." "Everybody needs prosperity as well as security." People have realised that things which were impossible for parties such as the Congress, the SP, the BSP, the RJD and the TMC, have become possible for the BJP under Modi's leadership, the UP chief minister said. "What was impossible earlier, is possible now," he said, adding "Modi hai to mumkin hai" (Modi makes it possible). Exuding confidence that the BJP will come up with flying colours in the Lok Sabha elections across the country on the basis of Prime Minister Modi's 'naam' (name) and 'kaam' (work), Adityanath said, "In 2014 Lok Sabha polls it was Modi's 'naam', and in 2019 it is both 'naam' and 'kaam'." He expressed confidence that the BJP will improve its tally in Uttar Pradesh and win over 74 out of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state. On why voters did not favour the BJP in the recent assembly polls in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, Adityanath said in states where a particular party is in power for a considerable amount of time, as long as 15 years, certain anti-incumbency factors crop up. "Our vote share has gone up in Madhya Pradesh and we fared well in Rajasthan despite odds. We will do well in the Lok Sabha polls in these states as the assembly elections were fought on local issues, whereas this is an election for the nation," he added. Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Bhuwan Chandra Khanduri's son Manish Khanduri joined the Congress on Saturday at a rally in Dehradun in the presence of party president Rahul Gandhi. IMAGE: Rahul Gandhi welcomes Manish Khanduri into the Congress. Photograph: ANI Welcoming the veteran BJP leader's son, Gandhi said him joining the Congress will strengthen the party. Speculation is rife that the Congress might field Manish Khanduri from Pauri, a Lok Sabha seat held by his father. Former Uttarakhand chief minister B C Khanduri was removed last year as chairman of the parliamentary standing committee on defence. The Congress had latched on to the removal of the former army general from the committee to attack the BJP. At the rally, Rahul asked the audience why the son of a man who had served the armed forces and the BJP for years joined hands with the Congress. "Why is Manish Khanduri here? Do you know his father Khanduri ji was the chairman of the parliamentary committee on defence," he said. "Despite dedicating his life to the army, the patriot was unceremoniously removed from the panel as he voiced his concern about the country's defence preparedness," the Gandhi scion added. #MainBhiChowkidar was trending world wide on Twitter. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses a rally in Jamnagar, Gujarat. Photograph: Press Information Bureau Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday urged his supporters to take the main bhi chowkidar (I too am watchman) pledge and said he was not alone in the fight against graft and social evils, drawing ridicule from Congress president Rahul Gandhi. "Your Chowkidar is standing firm & serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar. Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar," the prime minister wrote on Twitter. He also posted a short video to drive home his message. The video ends with the appeal to people to join PM Modi's main bhai chowkidar programme on March 31. #MainBhiChowkidar was trending world wide on Twitter. Soon after, Gandhi mocked Modi and tweeted, "Defensive tweet Mr Modi! You feeling a little guilty today" while a tagging a picture of Modi along with businessmen such as Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi, Anil Ambani and Gautam Adani. The Congress president earlier alleged that Modi only served the interests of his industrialist-friends. Modi has often described himself as a chowkidar who would neither allow corruption nor get corrupted himself. Gandhi has been repeatedly hurling the chowkidar chor hai (watchman is the thief) jibe at Modi to claim irregularities and favouritism in the Rafale fighter jet deal, a charge the BJP-led government has rejected. Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala hit back at Modi accusing him of being the "only chowkidar who is a thief". "One who wears a suit worth Rs 10 lakh and who helps Bank fraudsters Modi-Mehul-Mallya, one who wasts public money to the tune of Rs 52,000 crore for his own propaganda, one who spends Rs 2,010 crore to travel to 84 countries on people's money and one who helped in theft of Rs 30,000 crore in rafale jet deal, only one Chowkidar is a thief," he said in a tweet in Hindi. With more inputs from agencies The three countries have indicated that they are willing to accommodate Chinese request for changes in the language as long as it does not change the substance of the resolution and it ends up designating Azhar as a UN global terrorist. The United States, France and the United Kingdom are believed to be in intense "good faith" discussions with China to arrive at a "compromise", including on the language on the United Nations designation of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist, according to people familiar with the matter. On Wednesday, China blocked for the fourth consecutive time a resolution at the UN Security Council Committee on designating Azhar, head of the JeM terror group, as a global terrorist. The proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council was moved by France, the UK and the US on February 27, days after a suicide bomber of the Jaish-e-Mohammed killed 44 Central Reserve Police Force soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, leading to a flare-up in tensions between India and Pakistan. If the fresh efforts by the US, France and the UK does not end up in the formal designation of Azhar, the three permanent members are planning to soon move a resolution for his listing in the most powerful wing of the UN which would be preceded by an open debate on the issue, according to people familiar with the matter. India had expressed disappointment over the Chinese stance and the original co-sponsors of the resolution had warned they will consider "other actions" to achieve their goal. While the internal consultations of the security council committee remain private, this time several council members, frustrated at China's unreasonable stance to protect a terrorist, privately spoke to the media the negative role being played by Beijing. "If China continues to block this designation, responsible member-states may be forced to pursue other actions at the Security Council. It shouldn't have to come to that," a security council diplomat said on Wednesday in an unusual tough warning to Beijing. In the last 50 hours, it is believed that the original sponsors of the Azhar resolution are having intense "good faith" consultations with China on what many familiar with the matter describe as a "compromise". This probably means Azhar would be designated as a global terrorist by the UN body, but the language of designation would include a language acceptable to China. China is believed to have suggested "certain changes" in the language of the terrorist designation. The US, Britain and France are believed to be currently looking at the suggestions. It is understood that there is back-and-forth exchange of texts on the matter. The three countries have indicated that they are willing to accommodate Chinese request for changes in the language as long as it does not change the substance of the resolution and it ends up designating Azhar as a UN global terrorist. But unlike in the past, the US, France, Britain and other members of the Security Council are not willing to wait for long to conclude their discussion with China. It is learnt that China has been informed by these countries that they are seriously looking for other options, in particular an open debate followed by a vote on a resolution to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, pretty soon. Not months, not weeks but days. This is the what Beijing has been conveyed. At the same time, officials of the these countries believe that China this time has been much more co-operative than in the past. But in case at any point the three countries get a feeling that China is not doing a good faith negotiation on the "compromise formula" that is being negotiated, they are ready with the other move. China, after its decision to put a technical hold on the resolution, has invited criticism and its stance has also resulted in an outrage in India. Beijing would have to calculate the risk of being isolate globally on the issue of fight against terrorism or signing off to a compromised language that would designate Azhar as a global terrorist, since except China, all other UNSC members supported the resolution. Getting Chinese support to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, at the UN, in any format, would be considered as a terrific accomplishment. The very fact that there has been discussions going on between China and the US, Britain and France, is considered as a positive development. Those familiar with China's working pattern are still not confident and that's the reason why they are seriously working on other options including an open debate in the Security Council, where Beijing might find it difficult to defend a terrorist in public. The IAF has insisted it hit its targets. If that is indeed true, then the lack of obvious damage could mean it has used a different bomb -- possibly procured secretly from Israel. Ajai Shukla reports. Army bomb experts said if the Indian Air Force had used SPICE 2000 precision-guided bombs to strike the Jaish-e-Mohammad camp in Balakot, Pakistan, on February 26, they would have utterly demolished any regular brick-and-mortar buildings they hit. The IAF has insisted it hit its targets. If that is indeed true, then the lack of obvious damage could mean it has used a different bomb -- possibly procured secretly from Israel. I spoke to army explosives experts to verify the IAF's claim, made anonymously to two national newspapers on March 7, that the four buildings they hit in Balakot seemed externally undamaged in satellite photos because the bombs they used contained 'only 70 to 80 kg of high explosive.' This contention that 70 to 80 kg of explosive would spare the building is disputed by Major General Manik Sabherwal (retd), the army explosives expert who was called in to reconstruct the explosive devices that killed former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1991 and then Punjab chief minister Beant Singh in 1995. "A bomb with 70 to 80 kg of military grade high explosive would destroy a two- or three-storey building. Its roof would be blown off, and most of its walls," General Sabherwal said. Describing 70 to 80 kg as "a hell of a lot of explosive", General Sabherwal pointed out that an anti-tank mine, which can rip open the belly of a heavily armoured tank, weighs just 5 kg and a 155-millimetre artillery shell, which can bring down a building, contains just 12 to 15 kg of explosives. There has been international scepticism over India's claims of having killed a 'a very large number' of terrorists in Balakot. The anonymous officials who briefed the Indian Express explain this by claiming that the bombs used against Balakot are so specialised that they only made a small hole in the roof. IAF sources have also made another claim to explain why the Balakot camp buildings are still standing. They say SPICE 2000 munitions are 'bunker busting' weapons that explode only after penetrating the ground, diminishing their destructive power. Rejecting this, General Sabherwal said: "A bomb's shock wave passes through solid medium like soil even more efficiently than through air. So if the bomb passed right through the building and exploded under it, that would create an even more disruptive shock wave that would disrupt the foundations of the building, bringing it down." Describing the effect on a building, another army bomb expert who requests anonymity since he is still serving, assesses: "70 to 80 per cent of the building would collapse, with only a part of the outer walls standing. The rest would be rubble." That again raises the question: did the IAF use a bomb with specialised effects, about which no details have been made public yet? Air Marshal Nirdosh Tyagi, who headed the IAF's equipment acquisitions, says the acquisition of the SPICE 2000 started in 2007 and took two-to-three years of trials to finalise. SPICE -- which is an acronym for Smart Precise Impact and Cost Effective -- is only a guidance kit that must be mated with a bomb, usually the Mark 84 bomb. Before it is launched from an aircraft, the SPICE is loaded with the target's precise latitude and longitude coordinates, towards which it is guided by a navigation unit that takes inputs from Global Position System satellites and an on-board Inertial Navigation System. As it approaches the target, a visual seeker switches on and, using 'scene matching software', homes in on the target, the photograph of which has been fed into the seeker before the mission. Air Marshal Tyagi says, and this is corroborated on the website of Israeli company, Rafael, which supplies the SPICE 2000, that it can be launched from 60 km away from the target. That would have required IAF Mirage 2000s fighters to ingress at least 20 km across the Line of Control before releasing their SPICE 2000 bombs towards Balakot. But IAF sources have been emphatic that the Mirages did not cross the LoC. TORRINGTON Torrington Savings Bank recently welcomed Alan Saxena as Chief Risk Officer and Senior Vice President to the banks management team. Saxena comes to Torrington Savings with over 20 years of multi-industry experience including banking, consulting, aviation and not-for-profit. Most recently, he worked at Citizens Financial Group in the Central Risk team on areas including enterprise risk, compliance and model risk. In his role at Torrington Savings Bank, Saxena will be responsible for setting up an Enterprise Risk Management system with oversight over Internal Audits and Compliance within a centralized risk function. Saxena is a graduate of George Washington University in Washington DC where he earned his masters degree in Business Administration, concentrating in Finance. He holds an undergraduate degree in economics and accounting and is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). John Janco, President and CEO at Torrington Savings Bank stated, We are very pleased to have Alan join our Executive leadership team. His multi-disciplinary background in various industries will be very beneficial for our clients and the bank as we strive to maintain a strong balance sheet with minimal risk while offering new products and services. EdAdvance hosts Early Childhood Providers Roundtable LITCHFIELD EdAdvances Early Childhood and Family Programs hosted the first in a series of Early Childhood Roundtables focused on meeting the needs of diverse learners in northwest CT. The Roundtable was held Feb. 28 at the agencys headquarters in Litchfield. EdAdvance is the Regional Educational Service Center (RESC) serving western Connecticut, whose mission is to promote the success of school districts and communities. Early childhood providers, teachers, and program directors united to discuss priorities in the areas of professional development and providing quality services for preschoolers with specialized needs. Dr. Jeffrey Kitching, Executive Director at EdAdvance, welcomed participants. EdAdvance is committed to working with early childhood providers to achieve the best possible outcomes, including kindergarten readiness, for all early learners. Our early childhood specialists provide expert professional development and training programs, consultation, and technical assistance to providers throughout the region, including preparation for accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), he said. Michelle Cook, CT State Representative (Torrington) presented an overview of early childhood related legislative agenda items. Featured speaker Andrea Brinnel, CT State Department of Education Special Education Coordinator, updated participants on upcoming professional learning initiatives at RESCs throughout Connecticut to assist private and public school preschool teachers in serving young children with specialized needs. One attendee summed up her perspectives on the session as ...not only did they listen to our concerns and needs, but they are also ready to create solutions that truly support them. The next Early Childhood Roundtable is scheduled for Tuesday, April 30, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at EdAdvances Litchfield office. For more information on this initiative and Early Childhood and Family Programs, contact Michelle Anderson, Director, at andersonm@edadvance.org or 860-567-0863 x1179. Foundation celebrates 2018 accomplishments BURLINGTON Before a gathering of board members, past leadership and staff at Main Street Community Foundations Annual Meeting, the foundation celebrated 2018, which saw the distribution of $1.7 million in grants and scholarships to benefit the residents of Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington and Wolcott through programs and community leadership initiatives. More than $17.3 million has been distributed since the foundations establishment in 1995. The foundation also received $1.4 million in contributions in 2018 and 11 new funds were established at the Foundation by local individuals, families and organizations to support causes they care about to better their communities. Our local communities have very generous residents, said Susan Sadecki, the Foundations President and CEO. They have established a total of 236 funds and made contributions that fuel these grants to their favorite nonprofits, their towns and their most passionate causes, like education, healthcare and the environment. We are honored to help our donors carry out their wishes and fulfill their charitable goals. The Main Street Community Foundation also elected new officers at its annual meeting. John D. Scarritt handed off the gavel of board chairman to Marguerite P. Fletcher. Serving alongside Fletcher are two vice-chairpersons: Valerie A. DePaolo and Scott Fournier. Moving into the role of secretary is David J. Aldieri and the assistant secretary will be Kristine J. Dargenio. The new treasurer is Michael J. Brault. In addition, two directors, Mark Malley of Plymouth and Jennifer Scully of Wolcott, were re-elected to the board. The Community Foundation Board consists of community leaders charged with ensuring donors intentions are fulfilled in perpetuity. The Main Street Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for both present and future generations in the communities served by encouraging and promoting gift planning, prudent stewardship of assets, effective grantmaking and community leadership. A nonprofit public charity, created by private citizens, the foundation works with donors in Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington and Wolcott who wish to build permanent charitable endowments to support their communities. Since its founding in 1995, the foundation has provided over $17.3 million in grants and scholarships. Webster Bank recognized as a Worlds Best Bank WATERBURY - Webster Bank was recently recognized among the Worlds Best Banks in Forbes inaugural Worlds Best Banks list. Only 60 banks in the United States were recognized for this honor. In collaboration with analytics firm Statista, Forbes first annual list of Worlds Best Banks is based on an independent survey from a vast sample of more than 65,000 bank customers from 23 different countries. Participants were asked to identify all banks where they have opened checking or savings accounts and then asked to rate the banks in the following areas: Trust, Terms & Conditions, Customer Services, Digital Services, and Financial Advice. Since its founding in 1935, Webster bank has expanded to become a leading regional bank in the Northeast with more than $27 billion in assets and 157 banking centers from greater New York City to Boston. HARTFORD Taxpayers from every walk of life descended on the Legislative Office Building Friday to offer their opinion on the first public airing of Gov. Ned Lamonts tax proposals. Some were in support, others in opposition, and some offered their own alternatives. The Progressive Caucus within the Democratic Party, which held a press conference before the public hearing on the tax bills, said they would like to see would like see a half percent increase in the income tax on top income earners. The top rate for individuals making $500,000 a year and couples making $1 million a year is currently 6.9 percent. The caucus would like to see it increased to 7.49 percent. Rep. Anne Hughes, D-Easton, one of more than 40 members of the caucus, said that would raise enough revenue to cover the revenue needed to spare home goods and services from the elimination of the sales tax and there would no longer be any need for the sugary beverage tax. Preliminary estimates from the Office of Fiscal Analysis show that an increase of a half a percent on top income earners would raise about $227 million. Hughes said they are also exploring increasing the capital gains tax rate. Office of Policy and Management Secretary Melissa McCaw said Lamont is open to discussing Connecticuts tax structure with any lawmaker but has been clear about how he feels about changes to the income tax. Lamont has said repeatedly that he doesnt favor an increase in the income tax. Senate President Martin Looney, D-New Haven, agrees. He said one-third of the income tax is highly volatile from year-to-year so I think we need to find some other way to expand the responsibility for needed revenue outside the income tax. But Looney warned they should do it in a way thats not regressive. There were dozens of others who attended the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee public hearing encouraging members not to take away their sales tax exemptions. From lawyers to accountants, more than 120 members of the public signed up to testify on the governors tax package. Lincoln Woodard, president of the Connecticut Trial Lawyers, said requiring the legal community to implement a 6.35 percent sales tax on their services would cause undue harm to its clients. The tax is scheduled to bring $35.3 million in the first year and $71.7 million in the second year of the governors budget. Taxing legal services is simply not a viable way to raise revenue, Woodard said. It would create a barrier to the unalienable right to justice. The expansion of the sales tax base is expected to bring in $371 million in 2020 and $652.6 million in 2021. The biggest portion of that would come from repealing the sales tax exemption on vehicle trade-ins. Repeal of the trade-in tax credit will on average increase the cost to a consumer financing a vehicle by $1200-$1500, Jeff Aiosa, owner of Mercedes Benz of New London, said. This kind of price increase will directly impact consumer behavior resulting in delayed or postponed sales, sales of less expensive vehicles, or worse, no sales at all. This burden will affect all consumers trading in a car. With repeal of the trade-in exemption, Connecticut will stand alone in the Northeast as the only state to tax the trade-in vehicle. All states, with the exception of California, that have a sales tax on motor vehicle sales similar to Connecticuts have some type of allowance exempting the trade-in from the sales tax, Jill Silverman, owner and assistant general manager of Richard Chevrolet, said. More importantly, all northeastern states, with the exception of New Hampshire, which has no sales tax, give consumers a trade-in exemption. The Progressive caucus, which is seeking changes to the overall package, also expressed their opposition to a tax on sugary beverages. Lamonts budget proposed a 1.5 cent per ounce tax on sweetened beverages. That amounts to about 18 cents on a 12 ounce can or $2.16 cents on a 12-pack of soda or a $1.92 tax on a gallon jug of iced tea. Dr. David Katz, director of Prevention Research Center at Yale University and Griffin Hospital, said sugar-sweetened beverages are really the tobacco of our time. Opponents of the tax, including the Progressive Caucus, argue the tax is regressive. Rep. Juan Candelaria, D-New Haven, said the sugary beverage tax will disproportionately impact working and middle class families. Obesity and diabetes are horribly regressive, Katz said. He said its just a fact the obesity and diabetes are also impacting those communities at a greater rate and thats regressive. He said the cost of those diseases dwarf the cost of the tax. Katz said taxing sweetened beverages actually levels the playing field. He said no one in any of these communities is going to go thirsty if they cant buy soda. The sugary beverage tax is expected to generate $163.1 million in the second year of the budget. Meanwhile, Lamonts revenue proposals also had its supporters. The two-year budget released on Feb. 20 doesnt make many changes to the spending side of the budget. The decision to increase spending slightly did not go unnoticed by advocates for the poor, disabled, and elderly. A number of advocates for the individuals who receive services in some way from the state came to testify Friday in favor of Lamonts revenue proposals. Ben Szczerbicki, a recovery coordinator for Reliance Health, Inc., said he wanted to encourage the Finance, Revenue, and Bonding Committee to make the difficult decisions require to increase state revenue. He said the revenue is necessary to fund the services that saved his life. He was one of many to testify in favor of the tax increases. If this committee doesnt pass a budget with sufficient revenue to support the funding needed to maintain those programs, there will be no choice but for the Appropriations Committee to make additional cuts - cuts the folks who participate in these programs simply cannot afford, Kathy Flaherty, executive director of the CT Legal Rights Project, said. The Millstone Nuclear Power Station will stay open for another 10 years - a prospect that had been in some doubt recently even after it was selected in December as a winner of the final carbon-free energy competition by the Malloy administration. Dominion, Millstones owner, had been negotiating with Connecticuts two utilities - Eversource and United Illuminating - against a March 15 deadline for coming up with a long-term contract to purchase Millstones power. The contract was announced just hours before the deadline was set to expire. Dominion threatened to shut the plants two units in 2023 if an agreement wasnt reached today. That would have stripped 2,100 megawatts of carbon-free power from New Englands electric grid, including about half of Connecticuts power. That loss would have made it difficult, if not impossible, for the state to meet its long-term clean energy and greenhouse gas emission reduction mandates. The loss of Millstone would have been catastrophic for our state and our region, Gov. Ned Lamont said in a statement announcing the agreement. The shutdown of the plant would have exposed the New England region to a nearly 25 percent increase in carbon emissions, increased risk of rolling blackouts, billions of dollars in power replacement costs, and the loss of more than 1,500 well-paying jobs. Paul Koonce, president and CEO of Dominions power generation group, issued a statement calling the agreement a huge win for Connecticut, the region, and our colleagues at Millstone. It was assumed after Decembers announcement that a contract was assured, but difficulties subsequently arose. The details of the new deal have not been made public, according to Millstone spokesman Ken Holt. Dominions first threats to close the plant were in 2016. The company complained that the plant was no longer competitive against the extremely low-priced natural gas powering most of the electric plants in the region. The licenses of its two units run out in 2035 and 2045. The question of whether Millstone was genuinely at-risk of closing was debated for nearly two years and, in late 2017, the legislature finally gave the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection permission to authorize including Millstone in clean energy procurements. The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, PURA, ruled that the plant could be deemed at-risk, though it indicated that it would not be in danger of closing until 2022. The procurement parameters announced in December gave Millstone a 10-year contract, the first half of which would be as a not-at-risk source. The second half, beginning in 2022, would be at-risk. Reports indicated it was the second half of that contract that caused the snag prior to the last-minute resolution. In announcing the agreement, Lamont also revealed he has signed a statement of cooperation with the other New England governors to work toward coordinating the various states renewable energy goals with the overall needs and reliability concerns of the grid. TORRINGTON Things are tense at the Merriman House, also known as the Christmas House. The deadline for the family to be ejected, or removed, from their home is Monday. Late Friday, Ron Merriman was packing up a second load of boxes into a U-Haul at the house at 285-287 Main St. He said hes taken one load to a storage container. We arent going be out of here by Sunday, he said. Theres no way. I need another week. The home, built in 1900, was auctioned on Nov. 3 for just over $22,800, with the only bid coming from Webster Bank, the mortgage holder. Records show the family had not paid the $771 monthly mortgage since spring 2017. Webster Bank, agreed at a recent court hearing to allow a two-week extension of the ejection order. It had originally been scheduled for Feb. 21. Even with the extension, the ordeal of clearing out nearly four decades of accumulated possessions has left the family members frayed. Thats on top of an already strained relationship, according to both Ron Merriman and his sister, Donna Merriman. Things got heated in late February when Ron and his nephew, Corey Merriman, nearly came to blows after the police were called by Donna. We were trying to go to sleep. It was 11 p.m., said Donna. She and her son share the downstairs apartment of the two-family home. Ron was hammering and sawing in the basement, It was loud, she said so, I called the cops. The police report shows that when officers arrived, they talked with Ron Merriman, who told them he was trying to clear out his basement. Corey Merriman then stepped outside and began a verbal altercation, with his uncle, the report notes. Ron Merriman asked the police to come inside so he could show them something, but Corey Merriman, 38, was still standing in the doorway, police said. The uncle and nephew began arguing, and Corey began to push and shove the victim (Ron), the report said. Donna sees it differently. Corey nudged him, she said. The wrong person got arrested. Corey Merriman was charged with second-degree breach of peace. He was released on a $1,000 non-surety bond, the report shows. The case was referred to Family Relations Officer, according to court records. Corey Merriman is scheduled to appear in court on April 11, nearly a month after the family almost certainly will have been ejected. Donna Merriman and her mother, Alice, who is 87, will move into a low-income development in the city, and will meet the court deadline, Donna Merriman said Friday. Ron said he doesnt know where hell live. Im not worried about it. Its not like anyone is waiting on the porch with suitcases ready to get in, he said. KABUL -- An affiliate of the Islamic State militant group has claimed responsibility for the killing on March 15 of an Afghan TV journalist in the eastern province of Khost. The group did not say in its March 17 statement why it targeted Sultan Mahmoud Khirkhwa, a 60-year-old reporter who was shot in the head by gunmen in the provincial capital of Khost. Khirkhwa worked for the private television station Zaman. The men who attacked him were reportedly shot dead. He was the fourth journalist to be killed in Afghanistan this year. The killing follows that of Afghan TV journalist Nisar Ahmad Ahmadi, who was killed in a car bomb blast in the southern province of Helmand last week. A regional group, the Journalists' Safety Committee, issued an appeal on March 16 calling for the government to do more to protect journalists in Afghanistan. Afghanistan was the deadliest country for journalists worldwide last year, with at least 13 of them killed in relation to their work, according to the New York- based Committee to Protect Journalists. With reporting by AP and TOLOnews Serbian protesters demonstrating against President Aleksandar Vucic have occupied the state-run TV building in Belgrade to criticize the station for what they call biased reporting. Riot police came to state TV headquarters in central Belgrade to try and evict the dozens of people who burst into the building on March 16 during the latest of a series of weekly protests against Vucic and his government. Some opposition leaders from the Alliance for Serbia were among those in the Serbian TV building and said they would not leave until they were allowed to speak on air. The alliance is a loose grouping of some 30 parties and movements. "For the past months we have been asking only for one thing -- to allow protest organizers to speak on the state television," said Bosko Obradovic, leader of the Dveri political party. Interior Minister Nebojsa Stefanovic warned the protesters to leave the building or be removed as police would "protect all Serbian TV journalists." Defense Minister Aleksandar Vulin told pro-government Pink TV that the protesters were "fascists." The entering of the TV building was an escalation of the weekly protests held by demonstrators for the past three months in several cities around the country. Demonstrators are demanding Vucic's resignation, a more open media, and transparent elections. The weekly rallies began after unknown people beat up an opposition politician in November. In neighboring Montenegro, some 10,000 people also demonstrated on March 16 against President Milo Djukanovic in the capital, Podgorica. Djukanovic and his party have ruled Montenegro for the past 30 years. Both Vucic and Djukanovic have rejected calls to resign. With reporting by AP and Reuters KYIV -- Several hundred people have gathered in Kyiv at a protest organized by a far-right group to call for arrests of figures linked to an alleged military corruption scandal. The rally in the center of the Ukrainian capital on March 16 was called by the National Corps, the political wing of the Azov battalion. In its annual human rights report earlier this week, the U.S. State Department referred to the National Corps as a "nationalist hate group." The rally follows a recent media investigation that detailed alleged embezzlement schemes in Ukraine's military industry, including a factory controlled by President Petro Poroshenko. Most of the crowd at the rally later marched to the presidential administration, site of scuffles with police in riot gear a week ago. Protesters this time hurled stuffed toy pigs at police. The protesters have called Poroshenko a "pig farmer" for what they say is his courting of corrupt officials. The investigation on media outlet Bihus.Info's program Nashi Hroshi alleged that Ihor Hladkovskyy, the son of close Poroshenko ally Oleh Hladkovskyy, who is deputy secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, organized a ring to smuggle spare military equipment from Russia in 2015, a year after Moscow seized Ukraine's Crimea region and threw its support behind militant separatists in the eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk. The report alleged that state defense facilities purchased the smuggled spare parts from private companies linked to Ihor Hladkovskyy and his friends at highly inflated prices. It claimed that Ukroboronprom, the state concern that supervises defense-industry production facilities, knew the origin of the smuggled parts but agreed to buy them. The report also alleged that Ihor Hladkovskyy and his two associates illegally earned at least 250 million hryvnyas ($9.2 million) by smuggling the items from Russia through three major private firms, one of which belonged to Poroshenko at the time. A day after the investigative report was broadcast on YouTube on February 25, Poroshenko suspended Oleh Hladkovskyy from his post and two days later announced that a probe has been launched into the allegations. On March 4, Poroshenko fired Hladkovskyy. With reporting by Christopher Miller in Kyiv WASHINGTON -- Mikhail Lesin, the former Russian press minister who turned up dead in a Washington hotel room in 2015, sustained a fracture to a neck bone just below the jaw line "at or near the time" of his death, according to documents released by the city's medical examiner that provide new details about his final days. The finding does not provide clear-cut evidence of foul play in Lesin's death; another statement in the documents suggests the bone could have been damaged "after death" -- possibly during the autopsy. That detail, however, and others contained in the 149-page file released exclusively to RFE/RL offer the most precise scientific description to date about Lesin's death, which officials ruled accidental and said was caused by blunt-force injuries amid excessive alcohol consumption. Once a powerful media adviser to President Vladimir Putin, Lesin fell out of favor with the Kremlin elite sometime around 2012 and had lowered his public profile before he was discovered dead in the Dupont Circle Hotel, located a few blocks from the White House, on November 5, 2015. The files were released by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in response to a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit, filed nearly two years ago by RFE/RL. Washington Judge Hiram Puig-Lugo last month ordered the city to turn over the files. Among the new details revealed by the documents: Lesin's hyoid -- a bone located about midway between the larynx and the jaw bone -- was completely fractured; The FBI considered possibly taking over the case in early 2016. It wasn't clear whether the agency formally did so, though earlier files released by the agency show its agents were involved in questioning witnesses and examining video recordings from hotel cameras; Lesin's son, Anton, who lives in Beverly Hills, California, told investigators he did not know why his father was in the U.S. capital, and also reported that Lesin regularly had serious bouts of drinking while on business trips; The day after the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner released an initial report, one of its officials was summoned to appear before a criminal grand jury looking into Lesin's death; In a report filed the day of Lesin's death, a forensic investigator with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner wrote that a detective had called and said a "friend" of the former Russian official had contacted him and "inquired about the decedent's location." Despite the official conclusion that his death was "accidental," Lesin's links with Russia's ruling elite, the bizarre circumstances of his demise, and a string of strange deaths of Russians across the globe have fueled persistent speculation that he may have been killed. Blunt-Force Trauma On March 10, 2016, four months after Lesin's death, an initial report by the medical examiner's office declared Lesin died of blunt-force trauma to the head, neck, torso, upper and lower extremities, but said the manner of death was "undetermined." The day after that announcement, according to the newly obtained files, an official from the medical examiner's office was subpoenaed to appear before a criminal grand jury investigating Lesin's death. A final report, released in October 2016 by the U.S. Attorney's Office for Washington and Metropolitan Police Department, called his death accidental, caused or contributed to by blunt-force injuries to the head, neck, torso, and upper and lower extremities "which were induced by falls." Acute ethanol intoxication was cited as a factor. The autopsy records obtained by RFE/RL show the extent of the cuts and bruising over his head, neck, upper torso, and lower torso, but do not say how the injuries occurred. In a supplemental report from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner dated April 1, 2016, an official recounted a conversation with an unidentified individual who had called to ask questions about the forensic anthropology report -- focusing on skeletal analysis -- in the Lesin case. The caller, whose name and title was redacted in the document, asked "if the injury could have occurred with a fall," the official wrote. "I explained that the position of the hyoid is protected by the mandible and that fractures are commonly associated with hanging or manual strangulation. I also said that I could not exclude a significant fall as a cause for the fracture, but I would expect soft-tissue injury to be associated with the impact," the official, whose name was also redacted, wrote. The official also explained that an "autopsy artifact" -- or a change introduced into a corpse that can lead to forensic misinterpretation -- "must be considered as a possible cause of the fracture," according to the report. The autopsy record said the fracture in the hyoid bone was a "complete transverse fracture." It also said that cartilage from the nearby thyroid was "atraumatic." "The fracture margins are sharp and there is no gross evidence of healing indicating the trauma occurred at or near the time of death," it said. According to a 2015 article published by the National Institute for Health, "fractures of hyoid bone resulting from trauma other than strangulation are very rare; hyoid bone fracture associated with panfacial trauma are even rarer." Room And Board The medical examiner's official report released in October 2016 was met with deep suspicion by business acquaintances and others familiar with the once-powerful, wealthy Kremlin insider who was instrumental in Russia's crackdown on independent TV and in the creation of the international broadcaster RT. One person who had direct access to the hotel room where Lesin was found told RFE/RL in 2016 that it was physically impossible for him to have died alone in the room. Photographs released by police showed bottles of beer and liquor, stacks of dollar bills, and crumpled clothing on the floor. Associates of Lesin have argued that the Dupont Circle Hotel did not match his known tastes for expensive goods and lodging. Prior to the Dupont Circle Hotel, Lesin had spent time at the more upscale Four Seasons Hotel in another part of Washington. According to the D.C. police report, officials at the Four Seasons had called the U.S. Secret Service on November 3 when Lesin appeared to be heavily intoxicated, and the Secret Service advised that a guard be posted at his door to prevent him from leaving. He checked into the Dupont Circle Hotel a day later. According to the records, the Secret Service was already in the hotel, working to guard an unnamed official staying there. Lesin drank most of the alcohol in the hotel room minibar, according to the new files, and on at least one occasion, was found wandering the hallway wearing only his underpants and a shirt. A 'Friend' Was Looking For Lesin In the newly released files, one document dated November 5, 2015, shows a forensic investigator with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner who wrote that a detective had called and said a "friend" of Lesin had called him and "inquired about the decedent's location." "Caller advised the decedent was last known alive Tuesday [November 3, 2015] in the afternoon leaving the Four Seasons hotel," the forensic investigator wrote. There is no indication who the friend was. Russia Today Much of Lesin's vast wealth came from a private company he set up in the 1990s to sell television advertising on Russia's exploding TV-advertising market. That company, called Video International (VI), was later acquired by Yury Kovalchuk, the main shareholder of Bank Rossia, which has been closely linked to the Kremlin. Lesin played a major role in the 1996 election campaign of Boris Yeltsin, and served as his main spokesman in the latter part of Yeltsin's tenure, including during Yeltsin's abrupt decision to resign, announced on December 31, 1999, and the appointment of Putin to be his successor. As Putin's press minister in the early 2000s, Lesin was instrumental in bringing the country's national TV channels under Kremlin control, primarily NTV, a channel known at the time for its hard-hitting journalism. He went on to set up Russia Today, the global Kremlin mouthpiece known today as RT. He lost favor with the Kremlin for unknown reasons sometime between 2012 and 2014, and he largely fell out of the public eye. In 2014, a year before his death, Lesin had drawn the attention of the U.S. Senate, where one lawmaker had called on the FBI to investigate him for possible money laundering. Lesin owned mansions in Beverly Hills, California, where his children and estranged wife live, and owned a yacht valued at $40 million. Months before his death, Russian media alleged that he was engaged to a Russian model much younger than him, and that she was pregnant with their child. RFE/RL has been unable to confirm the whereabouts of the woman, identified as Viktoria Rakhimbayeva. Lesin was not known to be a regular visitor to Washington. But shortly after his death, it emerged that one of his reasons for being in the U.S. capital was to attend a scheduled gala fundraiser at the Wilson Center's Kennan Institute on November 3, two days before his body was found. One of the philanthropists being honored that night was the influential Russian banker Pyotr Aven. Lesin never attended the event. Aven also attended a private event at the Atlantic Council, another Washington think tank, on November 4. According to a person with knowledge of that event, Lesin had sought to attend as well, but the organizers declined to include him. When law enforcement agents interviewed Lesin's son, Anton, sometime during the investigation, he said he did not know why his father had traveled to Washington, D.C., according to the newly released files. One person in contact with federal law enforcement officials told RFE/RL that Lesin had been in contact with the Justice Department in the months leading up to his death. In March 2018, the website BuzzFeed quoted unnamed sources as saying that former British intelligence officer Christopher Steele had given the FBI a report stating that Lesin was bludgeoned to death by enforcers working for an oligarch close to Putin. The identity of the oligarch was not revealed in the BuzzFeed report. Steele later became famous because of a series of memos detailing President Donald Trump's alleged connections to Russia. Known as the Steele Dossier, the memos were circulated among Washington reporters in late 2016, and published in full by BuzzFeed in January 2017. In their December 2017 report, D.C. police said that Lesin had been drinking heavily in the days prior to his death. A month later, the FBI released a 56-page file on its investigation, including the work by forensic experts into the closed-circuit video footage of the Dupont Circle Hotel. The FBI files also included 29 pages from a report by the city medical examiner's office that were the basis of the official reason given by the city for his death. However, the pages were redacted almost entirely. Russian officials have said little publicly about Lesin's death, aside from indicating early on that they expected U.S. law enforcement to provide full details. Since his death, some of Lesin's assets have been gradually sold off. His yacht was sold in Florida in 2016. In 2017, his two Beverly Hills mansions were listed for sale, at $23 million and $29 million. It isn't immediately clear if the homes have been sold yet. Mike Eckel reported from Washington, D.C., Carl Schreck reported from Prague. Opposition supporters and police have clashed in the Albanian capital of Tirana during an antigovernment protest. Scuffles broke out when protesters tried to storm the parliament building on March 16 while throwing smoke bombs and other objects at police, who answered with tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd. The protesters accuse the government of Socialist Prime Minister Edi Rama of being corrupt and linked to organized crime. The opposition, led by the center-right Democratic Party, refuses to speak with Rama. They are demanding a transitory cabinet without him to prepare early elections. Earlier, protesters threw smoke bombs and flares behind the police lines outside the prime minister's office, and many shouted "Rama go!" President Ilir Meta, who is on a visit in Azerbaijan, called on the opposition to protest "peacefully." The United States and European Union have warned the opposition against using or inciting violence and to sit down for talks. Albania is hoping to get EU approval in June to begin membership talks. Based on reporting by AP Zuzana Caputova, an anticorruption campaigner with no previous experience in public office, appears to be the leading contender as Slovaks go to the polls to elect their next president. The 45-year-old Caputova, a liberal civic lawyer with the Progresivne Slovensko party, could become her country's first female head of state if preelection polls prove correct and she can defeat the 12 other candidates in the March 16 vote and manage to do so with an absolute majority. However, the high number of candidates could prevent any one candidate from clinching in the first round. Should no one receive above 50 percent, a March 30 runoff will be held between the top two candidates. The eventual winner will be the country's fifth head of state since it gained independence in 1993 after Czechoslovakia peacefully split into two countries. President Andrej Kiska is not running for a second five-year term in the largely ceremonial post. Maros Sefcovic, 52, the EU's energy commissioner and a political independent backed by the ruling center-left Direction-Social Democracy (Smer-SD), appears to be the main challenger. The election comes in the aftermath of the killing of investigative reporter Jan Kuciak and his fiancee in February 2018. The two, both 27, were found shot dead at their home near the capital, Bratislava. The journalist was investigating political corruption at the time of the slayings, which triggered the biggest street protests in Slovakia since the fall of communism in 1989 and a political crisis that led to the fall of former Prime Minister Robert Fico's government in March and slashed national support for Smer-SD. Based on reporting by AP, dpa, AFP, and Reuters What many consider the first gay-pride march ever held in Central Asia has unleashed a storm of controversy in Kyrgyzstan, with threats of violence against participants, counterprotests, and fiery parliamentary debate over whether to rein in civil society. The peaceful march by some 400 people in central Bishkek on Women's Day on March 8 promoting women's rights and "equality for all" was fiercely criticized by socially conservative lawmakers in the predominantly Muslim country. "The men who do not want to have children and the girls who do not want to pour tea...must not only be cursed, they must be beaten," Kyrgyz parliament deputy Jyldyz Musabekova wrote on Facebook of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) supporters who took part in the march in the Kyrgyz capital, with several of them carrying rainbow flags. "We have to beat the craziness out of them," she added. "Are there any decent guys out there [willing to do that]?" She warned later during a March 13 debate in parliament that "if we sit silently...Kyrgyzstan will become a 'Gayistan.'" Musabekova's comments were harshly criticized by some parliament members and on social media but echoed in gentler terms by other deputies. Deputy Ziyadin Zhamaldinov said that in allowing the march to take place Kyrgyzstan had "disgraced" itself in front of neighboring countries. No women's marches were held in any of the four other Central Asian states. Zamaldinov's colleague, Ainuru Altybaeva, said the march had "damaged" the concept of the traditional family. Such comments are emblematic of a deep societal division within Kyrgyzstan, the region's only democracy and arguably its most progressive country. 'Very Proud' Human rights activists were quick to defend the Women's Day march and excoriate deputies for their remarks. "We are not offended by this parliament -- these deputies have in past years expressed even more absurd ideas," rights activist Tolekan Ismailova said. "I think it's very cool that the LGBT community came on the march, because this is also related to the rights of women if we are talking about lesbians and transgender girls who face tremendous violence in Kyrgyzstan," said Bektour Iskender, the founder of the popular Kloop.kg website and a participant in the march. "This is part of the women's rights movement -- it's impossible to separate them. And I'm very proud of Kyrgyzstan that this has become possible here." Iskender added that it wasn't the only time that supporters of sexual minorities in Kyrgyzstan had been taking part in the women's march -- only that this was the first time opponents of the LGBT community had noticed. "I urge people in Kyrgyzstan to stop being afraid of LGBT people -- they're also part of our society," he said. "I think that parliament deputies would also do well to get some kind of education in the field of human rights, because they're saying some very uneducated things." 30 Or 40? Bektour told RFE/RL that this year's women's march had more participants than in previous years because of actions by the nationalist 40 Warriors (Kyrk Choro) organization, which had made threats to marchers and city officials allowing the event to be held. City officials initially tried to discourage organizers from the Bishkek Feminist Initiatives (BFD) from holding the march, saying that it could cause traffic jams and lead to confrontations. But the BFD was undeterred. "The city police told us that for 'security reasons' you should not go out because members of Kyrk Choro could 'come and do something,'" BFD representative Gulaiym Aiylchy said. "We told them that despite your warnings we will still come out [and march]." While there were 40 Warriors members present at the march, they didn't directly interfere with the procession. However, they are accused of making threats to female activists and others who attended. Rights activist Rita Karasartova, political analyst and former government deputy minister Edil Baisalov, and ex-lawmaker Ravshan Jeenbekov also said they had been intimidated or threatened for taking part in the march. 40 Warriors was also criticized for the behavior of its leader, Zamirbek Kochorbaev, who was accused of intimidating Mira Tokusheva, a march organizer, during a public TV program on March 11 in which he said he had the organizers' "addresses." 40 Warriors called on March 11 for Bishkek Mayor Aziz Surakmatov to resign for permitting the march, and two days later the nationalist group held a counterprotest in front of parliament, warning its members that it and its "thousands" of supporters would take action if lawmakers did not. Only about 30 people attended the nationalist group's rally. "We propose that 40 Warriors rename themselves," Iskender said, "to 30 di**heads." Sociologist and anthropologist Altyn Kapalova said the statements by deputy Musabekova on social media and in the parliament may have violated the law. "What Musabekova wrote can be regarded as a violation of the fundamental rights of every Kyrgyz citizen," she said. "It is not just rudely expressed, but also calls on other people to commit violence. To this we must not just respond but bring to justice." Blaming NGOs The debate in parliament on March 13 included the national security agency deputy chairman, Orozbek Opumbaev, who said he "shared" deputies' concerns about the participation of LGBT members in the Women's Day march. He told the deputies it was "necessary" to pass a law similar "to what was adopted in Russia" that would monitor the finances of NGOs -- a reference to the controversial "foreign agents" law passed in Russia in 2012. "This is the main problem -- that the financing [of NGOs] goes unchecked," he said. "In particular, on LGBT [groups]. How much money comes in [from abroad]?" he asked. "If we pass this law we have control." For activist Ismailova, the idea is a nonstarter for Kyrgyzstan, where there are more than 14,000 registered NGOs. "To those who say that NGOs should be checked, I would say: Read the constitution! NGOs openly show where they get funding from, provide all reports, and pay taxes," she said. "The companies of [some parliament] deputies do not pay as much taxes as we do." Written by Pete Baumgartner based on reporting by RFE/RL Kyrgyz Service correspondents Ernist Nurmatov, Eleonora Beyshenbek Kyzy, and Kasym Rakhmankulov, and Current Time The Russian Foreign Ministry has announced Moscow will respond to fresh sanction action by the European Union. The EU, along with the United States and Canada, on March 15 imposed new sanctions to punish Russia for its 2018 attack on three Ukrainian naval vessels as well as its annexation of Crimea and its support for separatists and other actions in eastern Ukraine. "The decision of the Council of the European Union shows disrespect for the Russian Federation's right to ensure protection of its state border," the Russian Foreign Ministry was quoted as saying by Interfax on March 16. Russia captured the three Ukrainian naval ships and their 24 crew members in November 2018 near the Kerch Strait, which links the Black Sea and Sea of Azov. Moscow alleged that the vessels had illegally entered Russian territorial waters near Crimea, which Russia occupied and annexed from Ukraine in 2014. Ukraine and most UN member states do not recognize the annexation. The 24 Ukrainian sailors are still being held by Moscow. The EU action announced on March 15 targeted eight Russian officers for their involvement in the November incident. The EU sanctions list now includes 170 individuals and 44 entities. Washington also cited the Russian seizure of the Ukrainian vessels and crew in announcing its new sanctions. "Today's action targets individuals and entities playing a role in Russia's unjustified attacks on Ukrainian naval vessels in the Kerch Strait, the purported annexation of Crimea, and backing of illegitimate separatist government elections in eastern Ukraine," the U.S. Treasury said in a March 15 statement. Six officials were targeted, along with six Russian defense companies, and two Russian energy and construction firms operating in Crimea. The six defense firms operating in Crimea were targeted for misappropriating Ukrainian state assets to provide services to the Russian military during the 2014 annexation, it said. Four of the six Russian officials targeted by the measure were involved in the attack near the Kerch Strait attack in November off the coast of Crimea, the Treasury said. "The United States and our transatlantic partners will not allow Russia's continued aggression against Ukraine to go unchecked," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said. "This joint initiative with our partners in the European Union and Canada reinforces our shared commitment to impose targeted and meaningful sanctions in response to the Kremlin's attempts to disregard international norms and undermine Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," he added. Some 13,000 people have been killed, a quarter of them civilians, and as many as 30,000 wounded in the war in eastern Ukraine since it broke out in April 2014, according to UN data. With reporting by Interfax and Reuters U.S. President Donald Trump has nominated the top U.S. Air Force general in Europe to serve as the next supreme allied commander in Europe and head the U.S. European Command. The nomination of General Tod Wolters was announced March 15 by acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan, who said the NATO alliance had agreed with the pick. If confirmed by the Senate, Wolters would succeed U.S. Army General Curtis Scaparrotti. He will take over his new role in NATO at a time when the alliance is preparing for the likely demise of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, a U.S-Russian disarmament pact that has protected Europe for the past three decades. In his other role, as head of the U.S. European Command, Wolter would lead all U.S. forces in Europe. Wolters now serves as commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe -- Air Forces Africa based at Ramstein Air Base in Germany. In his role, he also serves as the chief of NATO's Allied Air Command. He has served in that position since August 2016. Wolters is a fighter pilot by training, with more than 5,000 hours through his nearly 32-year military career, according to his Air Force biography. Based on reporting by AP, dpa, and Stripes.com The U.S. special envoy for Venezuela, Elliott Abrams, will meet with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov in Rome on March 18-19, the U.S. State Department has said in a press release. The March 16 release said the two officials will "discuss the deteriorating situation in Venezuela." It said Abrams will also meet with Italian officials while in Rome. Venezuelan opposition leader and parliament speaker Juan Guaido declared himself interim president on January 23, and was recognized by the United States, most European Union countries, and the majority of Latin American countries in the following days and weeks. Several other countries, including Russia, Iran, Cuba, Bolivia, and Turkey continue to recognize Nicolas Maduro as president. Russia -- which has loaned Venezuela billions of dollars in recent years -- has been Maduro's biggest international supporter since the dispute with Guaido began. With reporting by TASS The lawyer of a U.S. Navy veteran detained in Iran says his client has been given a 10-year prison sentence. Washington-based lawyer Mark Zaid told AP that Michael White was convicted of insulting Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and posting private information online. White was the first American known to be detained in Iran since President Donald Trump took office in January 2017. Zaid said the U.S. State Department had informed him of the sentence for White, who is 46 years old. The State Department had been given the news by the Swiss government, which oversees U.S. interests in Iran. Iranian state media have not reported on the sentence. White, who is from California, reportedly went to Iran in July 2018 to see a women he had met online. He had booked a July 27 return flight but did not make that flight after being detained. On March 11, an Iranian prosecutor, Gholamali Sadeqi, said that White was facing unspecified "security charges." In January, White's mother, Joanne White, called on Iranian officials to release her son because she said he had cancer and urgently needed treatment. At least five other U.S. citizens are being held in Iran, with whom the United States has not had diplomatic relations since 1980. Based on reporting by AP and The New York Times Mexico condemns New Zealand terrorist attacks Mexico City, Mexico The head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has sent his condolences to New Zealand on behalf of Mexico after 49 people were killed in Christchurch. Marcelo Ebrard, Secretaria de Relaciones Exteriores, expressed solidarity support from Mexico to New Zealand after armed attacks Friday against two mosques in the town of Christchurch. He stressed the Mexican governments position on rejecting violence, adding that New Zealand is a peaceful country and a promoter of democracy and human rights. Mexico embraces you in solidarity and rejects the violence that has brought pain and death. We are with you, he wrote on his Twitter account. The Government of Mexico has condemned the tragic attacks against two mosques in Christchurch and highlighted the values of respect and diversity of both countries. The Government of Mexico expresses its solidarity to the government and people of New Zealand for the tragic attacks on mosques in Christchurch. The two attacks left 49 dead and 41 injured. 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. The biennial exhibition is held to showcase Ikebana works by prominent artists as well as domestic and international students. Vietnam is the sole foreign country participating in this years event. The arrangement by Le Dieu Ngoc Linh uses a traditional conical hat as the main ornament to reflect the beauty of Vietnamese women, while the work of Do Vy Anh is a combination of a crane flower with a black vase and red steel wires. Do Vy Anh's flower arrangement (Photo: VNA) The five-day exhibition features hundreds of flower works, including those arranged by members of the Ikenobo family, especially the 45th headmaster Ikenobo Senei. It is expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors. Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arrangement, with a history of more than 600 years. Meanwhile, Ikenobo is the oldest and largest school of ikebana. Shorter intervals between primate births are associated with higher mortality rates in offspring, finds a new study of macaque monkeys. The results are consistent with previous research on human birth intervals, suggesting that this is a pattern of evolutionary origin. "Despite the extensive body of research showing a relationship between short birth intervals and high offspring mortality in humans, we have lacked studies outside of humans, especially in non-human primates," observes James Higham, an associate professor in New York University's Department of Anthropology and the senior author of the study, which appears in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. "This new research helps fill the gap by clarifying the biological link between birth intervals and offspring mortality in a general evolutionary framework." "We provide some of the first such data, from free-ranging rhesus macaques, and show that the risk of a short birth interval to an offspring is contingent on the survival of its older or younger sibling, who may constrain the maternal resources available for the offspring," adds Susie Lee, a doctoral candidate in NYU's anthropology program and one of the paper's co-authors. The study also included Angelina V. Ruiz-Lambides, associate director of the Cayo Santiago field station of the Caribbean Primate Research Center at the University of Puerto Rico. Short birth intervals have long been linked to adverse child outcomes in humans. However, it had been unclear the extent to which the birth interval has a direct influence on offspring mortality in general -- that is, independent of the effects of environment and human sociocultural practices on reproductive behavior. To address this question, the researchers examined rhesus macaque monkeys on Cayo Santiago, which is off the coast of Puerto Rico. Here, monkeys roam free on this natural tropical island, but also are so familiar with humans that they can be the subject of up-close and personal research -- allowing researchers unprecedented access into their daily lives, which scientists have extensively recorded. This microcosm of monkey society has shed light on questions as diverse as how they think, choose friends, and choose mates as well as on the genetic underpinnings of their complex social behaviors. For the PNAS study, Lee, Ruiz Lambides, and Higham examined approximately 9,000 birth records from about 1,400 free-ranging rhesus macaque mothers. Their analysis revealed that short birth intervals preceding or succeeding the birth of an offspring were both associated with higher offspring mortality. "This finding suggests that trade-offs between offspring quantity and quality on offspring survival determine variation in birth intervals and provide an evolutionary framework in which to consider the data on human birth intervals," observes Lee. The Cayo Santiago population is currently supported by the University of Puerto Rico and the Office of Research Infrastructure Programs of the National Institutes of Health (2P40OD012217). Since 2009, when mining for Bitcoin started, the cryptocurrency has relied on electricity to fuel its mining activities. Since then, the cryptocurrency is said to have a growing environmental problem according to the statement of an economist. Alex de Vries, the economist who published a new research paper on Bitcoin's problem further stated that using a renewable energy source will not solve the problem. De Vries is well-known for the assessments he made on the electricity consumption and carbon footprint of Bitcoin. The economist further emphasized the amount of electricity that the cryptocurrency uses for mining can be used by Hungary for a whole year. The economist further explains how a single transaction in Bitcoin consumes 491 to 766 kilowatt-hours as compared to 0.4 kilowatt-hours that a non-cash transaction in a traditional bank would consume. De Vries also stated that there is an emission of 233 to 364 kilograms of carbon dioxide for one Bitcoin transaction, whereas, a Visa transaction is about 0.4 grams' worth of carbon dioxide and a Google search could reach about 0.8 grams only. On his research, De Vries argues that Bitcoin has posted this massive environmental problem. This theory, of course, is being disputed by many others because of some Bitcoin mining facilities that are located in areas where there is renewable power. As Sichuan, China is famous for its surplus hydropower, holding 48% of the mining capacity for Bitcoin should not be a problem, as disputed against De Vries. However, De Vries did not yield to this difference of opinion and explained that miners taking advantage of the excess hydropower pose an additional demand on the grid for the whole year. Hydropower also has shortages during the dry season when there will be times that the shortage would be met by using coal. De Vries also discussed the electronic waste that Bitcoin generates because of the obsolete mining chips that would someday outpace e-waste creation.Jonathan Koomey, the energy researcher with published papers tackling the energy used by data centers, is in complete disagreement with De Vries. Koomey criticized De Vries' methodology in computing for the electricity footprint of Bitcoin. Still, Koomey acknowledges the uncertainty in pinpointing the mining rigs for the cryptocurrency. Koomey further defended that the lack of data can only leave researchers second-guessing as to identifying the real scale of the alleged environmental problem posed by Bitcoin and the probable solution to it. Strange though it may sound, San Franciscos future is on view at long-moribund Pier 70, where buildings once filled with ironworkers sat empty for decades. Newly restored industrial landmarks along 20th Street are filling up with employees of companies that for the most part didnt exist a decade ago. Behind them, construction workers are laying the groundwork literally for a 28-acre project that will pair old and new buildings along with 9 acres of plazas and parks. Purely in terms of historic preservation, the rebirth of Pier 70 already is an architectural triumph. The planned buildings and plazas hold promise of becoming the citys next bayside attraction. Yet the changes are inseparable from the citys tech-fueled economy a force that allows long-sought improvements to finally happen but can seem alien from what came before. These cultural aspects add a fresh layer to the long saga of the majestic yet matter-of-fact structures within the citys Union Iron Works Historic District, a 66-acre area south of Mission Bay and east of Dogpatch that is being redeveloped as the citys newest neighborhood. Gabrielle Lurie/The Chronicle As far back as the 1870s, the mudflats that covered much of the area were being filled in for industrial use. The oldest surviving cluster of structures is also the most impressive a connected set of machine shops built between 1885 and 1917 near the entrance to Pier 70 at 20th and Illinois streets. The 175-foot-long, red-brick facade facing west has arched windows under a roof that peaks at 62 feet. The shops have now been restored by Orton Development, along with the slightly more ornate buildings across the street where the bosses had their offices. World War II brought another round of construction, including a massive shed-like fabrication shop and a six-story concrete warehouse, both of which remain. But work tapered off after the 1950s, and owner Bethlehem Steel sold Pier 70 in 1982 to the Port of San Francisco for $1. While ship-repair firms kept Pier 70s large dry dock busy, the port spent 25 years trying to find a way to revive the rest of the district. That culminated in a 2010 master plan, followed by the selection of Orton to restore the historic core and what now is Brookfield Properties to tackle the south half of the property. Ortons work is nearly done, though the neoclassical former administration building at 20th and Illinois is still undergoing renovations by tenant Restoration Hardware that will include a rooftop park. The 1885 building and its annexes were completed last year, and the complex already has received a design award for rehabilitation from the California Preservation Foundation. Deservedly so. Orton and its team, including Marcy Wong Donn Logan Architects and preservation architect Mark Hulbert, have pulled off a difficult feat. The burly blue-collar machine shops were restored with affectionate care, reversing damage caused by everything from rain spilling through shredded roofs to the scavengers who stripped away any materials that might be sold for scrap. But they werent cleaned up too much. The exteriors look as if they were hardly altered, and evocative remnants of San Franciscos industrial past are pervasive. There are hints of this along 20th Street, such as the mottled display board with its faded injunction to REPORT all injuries. But the large-scale drama is inside. For one example, walk into the white masonry structure between the two long wings of the machine shops. Its been turned into a public atrium, and from it you can look up into the vaulted innards of Gusto, the tenant that occupies the eastern wing. In the dim recesses just beneath the peak, between discreet mezzanines that have been added on either side to provide extra rentable space, youll see what looks like a chubby hook. Gabrielle Lurie / The Chronicle Look closer its a 50-ton bridge crane, attached to girder-like crane rails that stretch across the grand, gaunt void. Unfortunately, most of us wont get any closer to these robust talismans than the lone vicarious view I described. Where the ports 2010 master plan called for a major cultural use and ground-floor retail and restaurant space in the oldest batch of buildings, everything but the public atrium was rented to tenants happy to operate behind closed doors. Gusto, a cloud payroll and human resources company, was started in 2012 by Stanford graduates in Palo Alto and now employs more than 500 people. The rest of the machine shop compound is leased by Uber, the brash ride-hailing company, as research and development space. Gabrielle Lurie/The Chronicle Across the way, space not leased by Restoration Hardware is filling up with employees of Juul, the e-cigarette maker that is widely seen as having stoked the vaping craze among American teenagers. Juuls presence has upset longtime Pier 70 watchdogs. But companies like Juul and Uber are controversial, not illegal. You can argue theyre in line with the 2010 master plans call for Pier 70 to become a center for innovative industries no matter how queasy this makes many of us feel. 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. You can restore the old industrial buildings. You cant bring old industry back, especially when restoring historic buildings to exacting standards. Brookfields much-larger project is tucked behind a construction wall at the end of 20th Street. And while the finished product should be more diverse and accessible than the historic core, there are startling aspects here as well. Imported soil now angles upward from worn concrete slipways to where roads and plazas will be set as much as 10 feet above the prior topography. Its an elevation keyed to be safely above the projected levels of sea level rise for 2100. Several dilapidated structures at this end of Pier 70 were torn down this year. The concrete warehouse will be converted into apartments, while the fabrication shop closer to the bay will be jacked up 10 feet to match its new surroundings. The elevated landscape sets the stage for Brookfields first phase. In addition to the new and restored structures, Slipways Commons will be a 3-acre park extending in from the water. It will be flanked by a new six-story apartment building on the south, designed by Kennerly Architecture, and the to-be-restored World War II structures on the west. Pier 70 isnt about one thing. Its this collection of spaces and multiple scales, said Richard Kennedy of James Corner Field Operations, landscape architect for the Brookfield project. We want what emerges to be tough but lovable. Within the old fabrication shop, where ship hulls were assembled, Brookfield envisions a bottom level filled with what it calls common areas with light manufacturing, maker and artist studios, local retail, food and open spaces. Slipways Commons, along with waterfront promenades to be added in subsequent phases, are conceived as citywide attractions. By 2028, Brookfield aims to develop at least 1 million square feet of commercial space and as many as 3,000 residential units 30 percent of them reserved for lower-income residents. The one piece of Pier 70 thats up for grabs is the 13-acre dry dock and ship repair facility at the northeast corner. It closed in 2017, and so far the port has been unable to find a new operator. The dry dock was one of San Franciscos last pockets of well-paid heavy industrial employment. But the city is in disruptive mode, tightly bound to the global economy. Pier 70 puts this into stark relief, no matter how reassuring our historic buildings might be. John King is The San Francisco Chronicles urban design critic. Email: jking@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @johnkingsfchron It wasnt St. Patricks Day and hardly anyone was Irish, but that didnt stop tens of thousands of folks from grabbing anything green from the closet, grabbing a beer or three and standing on the Market Street sidewalk to do the St. Patricks Day Parade thing. It involved cops with horses, kids with tubas, old fellows with bagpipes, girls with Irish dance clogs and classic cars with tops down. Green beads were around necks, and green hats were atop heads. Everything else was green, too, fermented beverages included. Emilio Ramos of San Francisco was enjoying himself, even though he is 4 months old. Perhaps it was because he was wearing earplugs to keep the drumming and bagpiping out. Im not sure he likes all the noise, but he seems to be having fun, said his mother, Julia. Its his first parade, his first time to see a mayor, his first time to see bagpipes. Its his first everything. The annual thing started at 11:30 a.m., exactly on time, if a day early. (St. Patricks Day actually falls on Sunday.) The procession moved west from Second and Market streets, down the grand thoroughfare of San Francisco and on to Civic Center, past sidewalks full of one-day-a-year Dubliners. Leading off were the big shots. Mayor London Breed waved, then waved some more. Police Chief Bill Scott handed out stickers to kids, then handed out some more. The line of honorary grand marshals seemed to go on forever, along with the dancers and the motorized cable cars and the brass bands with their tuba players. One of the tuba players, Joe Flores, 16, of the Fresno High School band, said the most important rule about playing the tuba is not to whine about how heavy it is. Asked what the Fresno High School band would be playing, Flores smiled and said he wasnt really sure. Probably a lot of songs that drunk people like to hear, he said. Drum major Mervyn Samayoa of the Anaheim High School band was doing some of his best baton twirling. He said he has never dropped his baton in performance and did not intend to break the streak in San Francisco. Its all timing, he said. You know where the baton is. You dont have to look at it. Youre not supposed to. See? Theres not a dent on mine. About two dozen Irish wolfhounds were there, because Irish wolfhounds havent had a lot of other things to do since driving the last wolf out of Ireland in 1786. They were all members of the Northern California Irish Wolfhound Club. Arlo the wolfhound was busy getting acquainted with the rear end of Clover the wolfhound. Thats just what wolfhounds do, said Clovers owner, Suzie Johnston of Sacramento. You always want an Irish wolfhound in a St. Patricks Day parade. Theyre the keepers of the Irish soul. Bagpipers were there, in overwhelming numbers. Piper Mike Holubar of the Silicon Valley Pipe Band said that could be because he is not required to play Danny Boy this year. Im not a big fan of that song, he said. Ill play it if I have to. Its not really a bagpipe song. 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. His fellow Irish bagpiper Daryl Turner said the great thing about a bagpipe is that its always on theres a drone sound that keeps playing when the rest of the tune is over. In other words, he said, you cant shut a bagpipe up. It never stops, he said. Its such a plaintive, emotional sound. And St. Patricks is the high holy day of bagpipes. The line of Irish wannabes, many with tykes on their shoulders, continued all the way to Civic Center. This year the annual festival with booths and music was canceled, enabling parade-goers to skip the niceties and head directly to the retinue of Irish pubs around town. Many bought tickets to events called pub crawls, a tradition that started even before the wolfhounds last did their wolf thing in 1786. In San Francisco, there were enough pub crawl fans to fuel at least three such endeavors the LepraCon (please drink responsibly), the Luck of the Irish Bar Drawl (get buzzed with your friends) and the Kiss Me Im Irish Bar Crawl (best bars in town). The responsible pub crawling runs from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and involves wristbands. Other kinds begin earlier and end later. Cops were out, all over town. They were not fooled by brown paper bags. Also on duty, keeping the order, was bar bouncer Pedro Diaz, stationed in front of Kate OBriens Irish Pub at Howard and Second streets. His job was to keep the beer on the premises. A good bouncer, he said, stays calm and reasonable, which helps if youre bigger than the inebriated person youre trying to reason with, as Diaz was. Today is really unlike any other day, he said. Most days, people dont usually start drinking at 10 in the morning. Today they do. Steve Rubenstein is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: srubenstein@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @steverubesf The 69-acre Pier 70 district, south of Mission Bay and east of Dogpatch, is a part of San Francisco that few people know but changes are coming fast, with these six initiatives among them. 1. Crane Cove Park The Port of San Francisco is turning the north end of Pier 70 into a 7-acre park with grass flanking a historic slipway and restoration of a crane on the site. The target to open is summer 2020. When we were kids on Potrero Hill, San Francisco was full of wonders. We could go to the beach and wade in the Pacific Ocean, go downtown to a movie palace or all the way across town and ride a cable car for a nickel. Or we could walk up to the top of the hill and see the Russians. That was perhaps best of all. It was close by and the Russian men all wore big beards and the women wore long dresses and shawls. Sometimes, they would hold processions in the street, for weddings and funerals. The funerals were the most impressive of all: the march led by young girls, men carrying the deceased in an open coffin, the mourners following, a last journey through the neighborhood. They were Molokans, we were told, a unique sect of Russian spiritual Christians, who had come to the United States to escape persecution and had settled at the top of Potrero Hill. It is very much an American immigrant story, and a San Francisco story as well. The Molokan people have lived on Potrero Hill for more than a century, but the community has become smaller and smaller. Anne Loskutoff remembers when so many people came to the First Russian Christian Molokan Church on Carolina Street on Sundays that they couldnt all fit in. There was a line outside. Now, she said, sometimes as few as 15 people come to services. They moved away, she said. The faith has not wavered. People come from as far away as San Jose, but not as often. More are expected back to Potrero Hill at Easter, which is very important to us, she said. Courtesy Daniel Daniloff The Molokans are spiritual Christians who split from the Orthodox Church in the 16th century. Their view of Christianity was plainer and simpler than the Orthodox version. One difference is that the Molokans, who were farmers and herders, did not give up drinking milk during Lent as the Orthodox Russians did. So they were called Molokans, after the Russian word for milk drinkers. They were persecuted in Russia. They were dissidents and pacifists, a bit like Quakers. Things came to a head during the Russo-Japanese War, when the Molokans refused to serve in the czars army. It was time to leave. An almost biblical journey, across Russia to America, first to Hawaii. The islands did not suit them, and in 1904, four pioneers came to San Francisco aboard the steamer Siberia. They speak no English, reported the San Francisco Call newspaper. They are strong, intelligent men of independent bearing. They brought with them $150,000 a fortune in those days to spend on modern American farm machinery. Instead, they put down roots on Potrero Hill. It was all yellow flowers then, and there were no houses, one of the first settlers told Pauline Vinson, an artist who lived with them for a year. We wrote and told our people in the old country and soon many families arrived. Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle They were peasants, not city people, and they came in waves, some of them arriving just after the fire and earthquake in 1906 had leveled San Francisco. The city was in ruins, and the Molokans went to work in the shipyards, as carpenters, mechanics and even as ragpickers at the foot of the hill. Molokans have always believed in hard work, said Daniel Daniloff, a retired industrial designer who grew up on Potrero Hill. Daniloff talked with Loskutoff the other day over snacks and mineral water at her Potrero Hill home. She and her husband, William, bought the house years ago, when Potrero Hill was much different than it is today. There were Italians in one part, Greeks in another, Slovenians near them. 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. Anne Loskutoff was born in Rostov on the Don in Russia, and arrived in San Francisco as a child in 1929, with one of the last Molokan groups to come to the city. Potrero Hill was isolated from the rest of San Francisco then, with industrial areas and railroad tracks on three sides. The Molokans were at the very top of the hill, almost an island on an island, a refuge from the world, Vinson said. The church, or meeting house, on Carolina Street is plain. There are no icons, no statues, no rituals. The services are led by an elected leader and go on for many hours of Bible reading and singing. The Molokans are noted for their music. But over the years, the descendants of the pioneers, who seemed so different, have become more and more American, and the old ways have faded away. The yellow flowers still bloom in March on Potrero Hill, and from the top of the hill, one can see the towers of a new San Francisco that people like the Molokans helped to build. Carl Noltes column appears Sundays. Email: cnolte@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @carlnoltesf Even as its chief executive touts a turnaround, San Francisco human resources software company Zenefits has suffered from a series of board departures, calling into question the companys support from key investors and advisers. The most recent departure is tech investor Bill McGlashan, who represented Zenefits investor TPG Growth. McGlashan parted ways with the firm Thursday after being charged with fraud in Operation Varsity Blues, the college admissions bribery case. Zenefits earlier declined to comment on McGlashans status. After repeated inquiries by The Chronicle, Zenefits updated its website Friday to remove McGlashans name and photograph from its list of board members. A representative for McGlashan also declined to comment on this change, and Zenefits did not respond to a request for further comment. McGlashans apparent departure from the Zenefits board highlights the loss of other famous names brought in to reform the company, and raises the question of whether the company now has sufficient oversight. Many questioned the role of Zenefits board in supervising the fast-growing startup, which raised $584 million from investors, after the resignation of co-founder Parker Conrad as CEO in 2016 amid charges the company had illegally sold insurance. The company ultimately settled with several state insurance commissions and the Securities and Exchange Commission, paying millions of dollars in fines. David Sacks, who took over as CEO, brought in McGlashan and two other board members, early Facebook investor Peter Thiel and Tesla board member Antonio Gracias of Valor Equity Partners. Antonio, Bill, and Peter bring to the board the experience needed to guide the company during its next phase of development, Sacks wrote in a February 2016 press release announcing the appointments. The phase would prove brief. Sacks was replaced by software executive Jay Fulcher as CEO in early 2017, though he remained on the board for some time. By May 2017, according to snapshots captured by the Internet Archives Wayback Machine, Thiel and Gracias were no longer listed as board members. Now, with McGlashans departure, all three people Sacks brought onto the board have left. Sacks appears to have left the board sometime between November 2017 and October 2018, according to past versions of the Zenefits website. Zenefits added ServiceNow Chief Talent Officer Pat Wadors, a former Yahoo and LinkedIn executive, in April 2018. Two other board members have seen their relationship to Zenefits change. Lars Dalgaard, previously a partner at Andreessen Horowitz, a major Zenefits investor, left the venture capital firm a year ago to start his own firm. Andreeseen Horowitz said Dalgaard was still representing its interests on the board. Zenefits co-founder Laks Srini left in September to found a real-estate startup, Zerodown, according to his LinkedIn profile. Srini and Zenefits did not respond to a request for comment on his board status. McGlashan stepped down or was removed from several corporate and nonprofit boards in recent days after the charges of fraud were unveiled. Don Heider, executive director of the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics at Santa Clara University, said McGlashan did the right thing by stepping down from some of the boards he was on. Heider and the Markkula Center have advised boards of companies and non-profits on ethical behavior. Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes By joining a board, youre basically saying Im here to try and help this company or nonprofit or university be its very best. ... But if something happens with me, Ive been indicted, I think it really impinges my ability to be able to help. A high-profile case like the one McGlashan faces can become a distraction, Heider said. Companies may choose to suspend a board member or remove them, he noted. When there is criminal activity involved, a board should dismiss the director or ask them to resign as soon as it is known, said Steve Walker, general counsel and managing director of the National Association of Corporate Directors. One role directors play in private companies is to help them raise more money to finance growth. Zenefits has not raised money since 2015, Fulcher told The Chronicle in February. Sophia Kunthara is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: sophia.kunthara@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @SophiaKunthara The first thing Mano Raju does when he meets clients whether its someone accused of theft or even murder is learn about their lives. The details of a case and evidence that may have landed them behind bars can wait. He wants to know about their families and communities. Its part philosophy and part legal strategy, and his colleagues say the approach makes Raju a force in the courtroom. That attitude has propelled his career as a defense attorney, which hit a high point Monday when Mayor London Breed appointed him as San Franciscos new public defender following the sudden death of his boss Jeff Adachi last month. Despite the heavy workload that comes with his new job, Raju, 50, said his focus wont stray from the people he serves. I love my clients, he said. I think when you really understand them, you can bring that into a courtroom and share that with the jurors, who will be more likely to see things from their perspective. In a wide-ranging interview Thursday inside the public defenders headquarters on Seventh Street in San Francisco, Raju spoke about his principles on criminal defense. He came in that morning to find his computer moved to his late boss office. Adachis movie posters, framed articles and artwork had been returned to his family. All that remained were stark white walls and empty shelves. As public defender, Raju said his policy priorities will be strengthening the offices recent achievements, including legal and legislative efforts around bail reform, immigration defense and community engagement. While Adachi was a famously outspoken leader who manned bullhorns at demonstrations and never shied away from stirring up controversy, Raju who spent the last four years as a managing attorney in the offices felony unit is noticeably more reserved. The increased media attention has been a departure from his previous position behind the scenes. But when necessary, Raju said, he wont hesitate to put up a fight. When Im doing a trial in closing argument, I bring it, he said. So, having said that, Im sure my style will differ from Jeffs, but Im still comfortable, and I really believe in the work that we do. The San Francisco Police Officers Association, which had numerous clashes with Adachi over the years, is waiting to see how Raju approaches the position. As long as hes not coming at my members who are non-deserving, Ill keep an open mind, union President Tony Montoya said. We will wait and see. Danielle Harris, who was partnered with Raju as a manager of the public defenders felony unit, called him an extraordinarily good listener. He is very approachable, she said. He is very hands-on. He wants to know the details of things. He wants to understand issues. Hes not someone to throw out an opinion or a viewpoint until he understands what all of the factors are. Adachi helped build the public defenders office into a premier criminal defense outfit. Attorneys often speak about their work as a calling rather than a job and their camaraderie jelled during Adachis 17 years in charge. He pushed the boundaries of the office, which became a force for police accountability as well as criminal and social justice reform. While Adachis tenacity motivated the office and made him a national figure in criminal law, his tactics also drew controversy. Former clients have accused attorneys of not conveying plea deals and Adachis combativeness irked many judges and prosecutors. So, when it was announced that Raju someone from inside the office was being appointed as the new public defender, cheers erupted among the attorneys and staff that gathered to receive the news. Jeff was a huge loss for our office and for our cause, Harris said, and almost immediately we were thrust from grieving into this uncertainty of, Oh no, are we going to have an appointment that threatens what weve become under his leadership? We can now grieve a little bit without having that additional anxiety of wondering if someone would seek to dismantle what weve built here. Raju was one of four people from the office to meet with Breed in the weeks after Adachis death. Three female deputy public defenders Niki Solis, Rebecca Young and Patty Lee also interviewed for the position, according to multiple sources familiar with the process. Matt Gonzalez, the offices chief attorney, expressed interest in the job but later said he took himself out of the running. He said he will not be a candidate for the position in the Nov. 5 election. Raju said he intends to launch a campaign as soon as hes officially sworn in. The way I try cases, the way I interact with clients, the way I manage and train in a hopefully empowering way is something people like and feel is the right direction for the office, Raju said. He and his wife and 8-year-old son live in Oakland, but theyre moving to San Francisco. The City Charter requires Raju to live in San Francisco before he can be sworn in. 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. Should someone from outside the office try to swoop in for the job, he or she would likely face rabid resistance from the forces inside. I hope that he runs unopposed, and if anyone dare oppose, they will face fierce opposition from this very well organized and committed office, Young said. We are behind him 100 percent without exception, so fair warning. At 6 foot 2, Raju is tall and lean. In recent years hes begun shaving his head, which shines above his dark eyes and tortoiseshell eyeglass frames. He was born on the East Coast to parents who emigrated from a small village in southern India, and he later attended Columbia University. He came to the Bay Area in the early 1990s to get his masters degree in South Asian studies at UC Berkeley before attending law school there. He found a love for criminal defense while doing a trial practice course in law school before he interned under Gonzalez at the public defenders office. I knew my calling was going to be a public defender, Raju said. When I did that kind of work, it felt right. He was soon hired by the Contra Costa County public defenders office, where he started handling misdemeanor cases but quickly graduated to felonies. He caught the attention of Adachi and then-Chief Attorney Teresa Caffese, who is now a Superior Court judge. Adachi hired him for San Franciscos felony unit in 2008. Young was Rajus first supervisor. It was my duty to observe him at trial and consult with him about his work here, and I quickly realized that this was one attorney that I was not going to have to bird-dog, Young said. He was brilliant. He has a fantastic legal mind and hes an original thinker, and his trial work was impeccable. Raju said his confidence in the courtroom comes from meticulous preparation and his efforts to build relationships with clients. Ive been fortunate to have had a lot of success in trials, he said. When Im in trial, Im obsessing about everything. Im sort of an obsessive brainstormer, and Ill walk into different offices and chat with people about the cases. So, I view a lot of my victories as collective victories. Now as appointed public defender, Raju said he will continue Adachis legacy while seeking to take the office to the next level. Adachi, he said, always emphasized a growth mind-set. Im interested in improving the excellence of our office, Raju said. That means criminal justice reform and also deepening community engagement. That is really one of the reasons the mayor appointed me to be the public defender. Evan Sernoffsky is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @EvanSernoffsky The worst thing about seeing a man die in San Quentins execution chamber isnt watching him pull his last breaths. Its the bottomless rage, sorrow, helplessness and frustration throbbing all around you. Thats what you get when youre standing in that tiny death room alongside the loved ones of those he murdered, the supporters of the killer, and the investigators who put him where he is. Thats what you absorb into your pores. And feel. Ive witnessed seven executions at San Quentin Prison, and each time it was like being submerged into an ocean of pain. Those survivors, those few friends of the condemned man wed catch each others eyes tensely for a moment or two, then go back to staring at the dying human being before us. Scenes from those seven macabre one-act death plays have looped over and over in my head in the 26 years since I first set foot in that grim, green execution room at San Quentin, the only lockup in California where prisoners are put to death. None of those scenes is good. Regardless of how you feel about Gov. Gavin Newsoms decision last week to put a halt to the death penalty in California for at least the length of his four-year term saying he considers it inhumane and unjustly applied despite voter approval of the punishment as recently as 2016 there are a few immutable truths I have learned about the process. One is that there is really no closure for the victims families. Youd think making this man who murdered your loved one pay the ultimate price would bring that. It doesnt. A vivid case in point: William Bonin. Bonin was dubbed The Freeway Killer for torturing, raping and murdering 14 boys in Southern California in the 1970s and 80s and tossing them naked, like trash, onto roadways. He was the most prolific killer put to death in the states modern era of executions, and I watched him die in 1996, the first man lethally injected in California. Standing closest to me was Barbara Biehn, whose 16-year-old son Steven Woods brutalized body had been found against a garbage can, hogtied. Sighing deeply, she clutched a picture of her son, a smiling kid with flowing blond hair, frozen in handsome youth. More than a dozen dead boys relatives stood alongside her. The anguish was everywhere so thick that at times, it felt like I was not seeing the pudgy butcherer strapped to the gurney in front of us, behind glass. I was seeing the dozens of young victims I had been told about, in searing detail, by their survivors. As I wrote in my eyewitness account for The Chronicle that night: It was as if their ghosts were there with us in that chamber, weeping and suffering all over again. Over the decades, I have called many of the survivors who witnessed executions with me, including several who were there for Bonins death. I asked if theyd found closure. None had. Yes, they were glad the killers were no longer alive. But that really brought them little relief. Several said it might have been better to just let the murderers rot in prison for life, not to mention cheaper, considering the more vigorous appeals involved in a death penalty case push the legal costs considerably higher than those drawing life without parole. I hate that term, Biehn told me when I asked if she had found closure five years after we watched Bonin die. Youll miss your loved ones until you draw your last breath. Its as if you lost your two hands and tried to get on with your life like nothing happened. You cant replace them. You just learn to live without them. Another truth is that despite the states efforts to make execution a tidy, unemotional process, it is messy. Death is death, and it far too often brings out the worst in people when it is put on regardless of intent as a show. I got my first taste of this when I stayed up all night at San Quentins gates in April 1992 when double-murderer Robert Alton Harris became the first man put to death since the punishments reinstatement. California still used cyanide back then. It was a long night. Harris was strapped in, taken out and strapped in again before being gassed to death and meanwhile, outside the prison where I was, pro-death penalty crowds cracked open beers and whooped, Kill him! or Die! with big grins on their faces. Their opponents angrily yelled back that they were idiots. Sure, there were plenty of reasonable people in the crowd. But what struck me most was that when the news truck TV lights were off, many just sat around and when the lights clicked back on they lurched to their feet and screamed for the cameras. Same scenes happened when I was in Indiana in 2001 to cover the federal execution of Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh. It was undignified. Sad. Ugly. Many have asked if I am tormented by having watched executions, especially ones like Tookie Williams, who cried before medical technicians jabbed needle after needle into him to find a vein. Or David Mason, who heaved, convulsed and drooled as he choked to death on poison gas. I am not. 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. I feel deep sorrow at the suffering of the many survivors Ive interviewed, because every killer I watched die was some form of a monster you generally dont wind up on Death Row unless youve killed in inventively heinous ways. I also feel great sadness at the waste of a life that each killer represents, because I believe with different twists of fate, each person can be a loving presence. But Ive been a reporter a long time, covering disasters and mass murders and homelessness. Ive seen things worse than watching a man die fairly quickly in a tightly controlled environment. What sticks for me is the misery for everyone involved. Take Brian Chalk, for example. Thirteen years ago, he and I were set to watch the execution of Michael Morales, who in 1981 raped and killed Chalks sister Terri Winchell in Lodi the first murder I ever covered. The state pulled the plug two hours before the appointed time, and Chalk has been waiting ever since, frozen in rage, sorrow and helplessness. He said he still thinks watching Morales sleep to eternity might bring him closure, or at least something close to it. But either do the death penalty, or dont and then leave him alone, he said. Its an ugly world out there, Chalk told me last week. This thing has bothered me, been so stressful, for years and years and years. Its been awful. Just let it be over one way or another. And there it is, just like all those times in the chamber. Pain. It never ends. Whether the poisons flow through the injection tubes or not. Kevin Fagan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: kfagan@sfchronicle.com Hundreds of Oakland school clerks, library workers and other staff will receive layoff notices in coming weeks as the school district grapples with the expense of the contract concessions that settled the seven-day teachers strike this month, the school board has decided. The layoffs of 257 full-time equivalent positions are part of a $22 million cut from next years budget. We dont want to lose anybody, but we have to make choices and deal with the current financial situation, school district spokesman John Sasaki said Saturday. Exactly how many people will lose jobs is unclear. School districts in California often send layoff notices to employees as a legal requirement while drawing up budget plans, and many of those employees wind up being retained when the final budgets are approved. Among the positions on the districts chopping block are two dozen security officers, 22 kindergarten reading tutors, 20 restorative justice discipline officers and scores of clerks, receptionists, college application coaches, library technicians and others. In order to invest in our talent, we had to make cuts elsewhere, Sasaki said, using the districts euphemism for teacher pay raises. The new contract calls for an 11 percent pay raise over four years and a one-time bonus of 3 percent. President Keith Brown of the Oakland Education Association teachers union said that linking the layoff notices to teacher pay raises in the new contract is a ploy that nobody is going to fall for. The district knew it was going to have to make cuts before it settled the contract, he said. We had a successful strike that was supported by the parents, the students and the community. I see this as a tactic to break that unity. COVID Resources Coronavirus Map Tracking COVID-19 cases across the Bay Area and California. Union Vice President Chaz Garcia said the district is still pushing and shoving to win public opinion by saying the higher salaries for some were responsible for layoffs for others. Its a false narrative, she said. Aimee End, the school board president, called the staff cuts, which were passed unanimously by the board this week, very painful. Steve Rubenstein is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: srubenstein@sfchronicle.com It happens more often than shed like. Butte County sheriffs Supervisor Becky Callas jerks awake in the dead of night, fighting the nagging memories of her community burning to the ground in the worst fire in California history. Or her mind is brimming with endless to-do lists for the areas recovery. Thats when she reaches for an odd little device that over the past dozen years has helped countless war veterans overcome post-traumatic stress. Its called a Temple Massager a wishbone-shaped, manually operated gizmo that looks deceptively simple, but is proving to be unexpectedly profound for hundreds of people like Callas who fought Novembers catastrophic Camp Fire in Butte County. Like so many veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, they may have survived the fire, but the lasting stress of what they endured combined with the mountain of community recovery work before them has left little or no time for personal recovery. Thats where the massager comes in handy. The device resembles a stethoscope, with a pair of nubs positioned to be set on a persons temples. A few strokes by the nubs quickly relieves headaches, facial and jaw tension, and tamps down stress enough to put the user back to sleep. The Temple Massage has proved so effective that it has been quietly added to the tool kit for soldiers and veterans around the world for post-traumatic stress treatment alongside medications and counseling. And now Camp Fire responders, like Callas, are finding it useful, much to their delight. Its pretty awesome. It makes my eyes roll back in my head, which I guess is a good thing, Callas, 57, said with a laugh. Seriously, when you suffer through a lot of stress like all of us did, it affects your sleep, headaches, teeth grinding, and more. And this thing, the way it addresses so many nerve endings in your face, its really effective. Like so many of her fellow first responders, Callas is one tough cookie, having worked in law enforcement for decades, starting as a regular officer and working her way up to assistant police chief in Colorado before being hired by the sheriff. So when Temple Massager inventor Joe Meisch called her after the fire from his home in Cazadero to offer 80 of his gadgets to firefighters and law enforcement agents for free, she blew him off. There was work to be done. I was deep in the weeds of handling the aftermath and recovery like everyone else around here, so I avoided him, said Callas, who is the sheriffs fiscal manager and supervises the county Critical Incident Stress Management Team. We were all just really fried. But hes pretty persistent. So I finally called him back and he brought these things up to our monthly meeting in February. She was quickly persuaded. I tell you this, weve been really glad to have them, Callas said. Were still getting our butts kicked by that fires aftermath, and this massager has been good for a lot of people. Meisch, an Army veteran, has gotten used to hearing that kind of gratitude in the decade or so since he invented his oddball device and started giving it away to help reduce PTSD. He came up with the idea in 1997 while he was an Army engineer and fighting the beginnings of PTSD himself, having seen one of his buddies drown in a training exercise despite rescue efforts by Meisch and his patrol. While driving home from an Allman Brothers concert, he found that rubbing his temples with the earpieces of his sunglasses relieved his stress headache but when he later looked for a temple massager he could buy, he couldnt find one. He started researching facial massage and acupressure. Meisch got his honorable discharge from the service in 2000 after a 13-year hitch, and by 2007 he had his patent and production in place and started giving his Temple Massager away. In addition to the rubbing points, the handle comes with a tiny reservoir so lavender or other aromatherapy oils can be added to the experience. Some of his first shipments went to Walter Reed Army Medical Center and the National Navy Medical Center, both in Maryland. He followed that with donations to the Navy seaport in Bahrain and Marines base Camp Pendleton. Hes also sending them to active Army soldiers on the Iraq and Afghanistan battlefronts, and veterans clinics from Fort Bragg to Palo Alto. Letters soon started coming back from doctors and military officials, with one Army commander calling the massager a natural stress relief mechanism during deployment. A psychologist treating vets in Fort Bragg wrote that it was a creative, non-invasive adjunctive treatment which is having beneficial effects for our veterans. So when the Camp Fire devastated Butte County last fall, incinerating most of the town of Paradise as well as the homes of more than 100 law enforcement officers and firefighters, Meisch made his call to Callas. The Wine Country fires had savaged Sonoma County, where he lives, just a year before. He knew viscerally how much the first responders would be hurting. I am on a mission from the heart, and I know that sounds corny, but its true, said Meisch, who is 53 and makes his living working in construction. I do sell a few of these massagers on the internet, but I dont really care about the money. Im just trying to help people. 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. So far, Meisch has given out 2,800 Temple Massagers. Hes sold 300, with prices starting at $60 apiece. In Butte County, the massagers are placed at fire stations and police departments, and users are filling out survey forms about their effectiveness. The first results came in last week, and the main benefit so far has been to help people sleep. A similar, but much more intensive survey and study of the device is being conducted at the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center in Palo Alto, where about 20 of the massagers have been used by patients since Meisch sent them there nearly two years ago. Even though Meisch is no scientist he has a bachelors degree in geography he did his homework and produced a useful tool, said Maheen Adamson, senior scientific research director at the brain center and a Stanford associate professor. Like most therapeutic tools, its not the wonder fix to end all fixes but it sure does help, she said. The patients have all liked it and said nice things about it, said Adamson. Its a good complementary device, and Im hoping to test it for a couple more years. Test approval is nice, Meisch said, but what brings him the most satisfaction is getting an email like the one he got in 2016 from a U.S. soldier serving in South Korea begging for a massager because he was having the worst time in my life. Meisch shipped it, for free as usual. A month later the soldier wrote again. Because of the Temple Massager, he said, the past four weeks have been OK, and that is substantial for me, more than I can describe. Four weeks of feeling ok, vs 17 months of intense anxiety, panic attacks and suicidal ideations, is substantial. I owe quality gratitude to you. After reading the email again last week, Meisch paused for a moment, filled with emotion. These are the things that keep me going, he said softly. This is the stuff I use to light my way. Kevin Fagan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: kfagan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @KevinChron Receiving Vitaly Markelov, Deputy Chairman of the Management Committee of Gazprom in Hanoi on March 14, head of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committees Economic Commission Binh described energy collaboration as an important pillar of the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership. He lauded the group for its effective implementation of signed contracts, as well as its increased cooperation activities in Vietnam. Vietnam will create the best possible conditions for Russian businesses, including Gazprom, to operate in the country, he said, expressing his belief that joint cooperation projects will bear fruits as expected, bringing economic benefits to both nations. For his part, Markelov hailed the socio-economic achievements Vietnam has reaped over the years and expressed his delight at new cooperative attainments of the two countries. He used the occasion to thank Vietnam for facilitating Gazproms operations, contributing to the host countrys development. Markelov hoped for long-term and effective cooperation between Gazprom and the Vietnam Oil and Gas Group (PetroVietnam), thus contributing to developing Vietnam-Russia friendship and cooperation. On Friday, a white supremacist gunman killed 49 people and wounded at least 40 more in two mosques in central Christchurch, New Zealand. Jacinda Ardern, New Zealands prime minister, said that it was one of New Zealands darkest days and condemned the shootings as a terrorist attack. Mass shootings are extremely rare in New Zealand. The typical home for these kinds of horrific attacks is the United States, and it quickly became clear that the gunman was inspired by various aspects of the xenophobic, destructive climate in the United States as well. In a 74-page dossier published on 8chan, an online forum known for extremist, hate-based rhetoric, the presumed gunman issued praise for President Trump as a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose. He claimed to have been influenced by anti-immigrant American media personalities and stated that he used guns with the hope of sowing discord in the United States over the Second Amendment. Finally, he used a U.S.-based social media platform Facebook to livestream his gruesome attacks. After Facebook removed the footage, other people quickly uploaded and re-uploaded the video continuously onto YouTube. It was a terrorist attack designed to be shared on social media, to spread a message of hate and to radicalize others. New Zealand police have captured three men and one woman, and theyve already charged the suspected shooter, a 28-year-old Australian, with murder. As of Friday afternoon, the police had chosen not to publicly identify the shooter a wise and rare decision that puts the emphasis back on his innocent victims. The fact that the police managed to capture the alleged shooter, and discover two explosive devices that he is said to have left behind on a vehicle, suggests that this horrific attack could have been even worse. Their swift actions appear to have prevented even more murders. Thats a small relief on a terrible day. But the New Zealand attack should be a stern reminder to every nation especially the United States of the high cost of xenophobia, and our collective responsibility for stopping it. In the U.S., this task is being made far harder due to the presence of a president who, just this week, hinted with glee at the possibility of violence against his detractors. I can tell you I have the support of the police, the support of the military, the support of the Bikers For Trump, Trump told the far-right website Breitbart News. I have the tough people, but they dont play it tough until they go to a certain point, and then it would be very bad, very bad. Because Trump has said similar things many times in the past, its easy to forget how dangerous and irresponsible it is to have the leader of this country issuing such rhetoric against those who disagree with him and his strident policies against immigrants and Muslims. This week served as yet another reminder that it is unacceptable and unconscionable. This incident should also serve as yet another wake-up call to social media platforms. The shooter was well-versed in the cryptic, attention-seeking tics of online forums and social media posting, and he designed his attack to be easily shared across the internet. YouTube, for example, expressed dismay over the shooters actions and promised to remove videos of the attack with haste, but the ease with which his attack spread across that platform was yet more evidence of how easy it is for people to become radicalized online. The failure of social media giants to make a serious, concerted effort against hate on their platforms isnt just disappointing increasingly, its deadly. This commentary is from The Chronicles editorial board. We invite you to express your views in a letter to the editor. Please submit your letter via our online form: SFChronicle.com/letters. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has condemned the hateful attack on two mosques in New Zealand that killed dozens of praying Muslims and injured many others. Interestingly, the shooter posted a manifesto of anti-Muslim, anti-immigrant ideas and cited President Trump as a symbol of renewed white identity. Will this tragedy force the president to tone down his own anti-Muslim, anti-immigrant, and pro-nationalist remarks that might have inspired this attack? If not, the administrations condemnation of this tragedy and offer of assistance to New Zealand is as empty as the thoughts and prayers that it routinely offers to the families of victims of mass shootings here in our own country. Josephine DiCostanza, Burlingame Provide scholarships The parents who paid to get their children into elite colleges should have to provide full scholarships for the youngsters who were denied entrance. The cheating parents not only paid to get their children into the colleges, they also more than likely paid the expensive tuition and living expenses for at least four years. Now, it is time for them to pony up for those qualified and deserving students who were denied entrance and provide scholarships for their entire college education. Diana DiPietro, Pleasant Hill End the Electoral College Regarding Project to make Electoral College moot moves ahead (Page 1, March 15): I support the abolishment of the Electoral College. Twice in the past generation, a presidential candidate was declared the winner of this anachronistic voting mechanism while losing the popular vote. Why should a handful of states with much smaller populations be the ones who determine the outcome of such important elections? Shouldnt all votes matter equally? A switch to a simple majority vote for president is long overdue. Not only would this change force candidates to appear in all parts of the country, but also it would boost voter participation and reduce many citizens contempt for our political system. Jeremy Davidoff, Novato Justice is not about revenge, even when the defendant is Paul Manafort. U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson did the right thing the other day when she sentenced President Trumps former campaign manager to three-plus years in prison for fraud. She was even more in the right when she refused to join with those who demanded she throw the book at Manafort to make up for the short sentence that another federal judge handed down in an earlier case. That judge ignored sentencing guidelines that called for Manafort to get 19 to 24 years, saying he had led an otherwise blameless life. Jackson, in contrast, was limited to sentencing Manafort to 10 years tops and came in with a term that was largely in line with what similar defendants receive. In our justice system, each offense stands on its own. Trying to link one sentencing to some other judges sentencing is wrong, whether the defendant is a homeless person or a millionaire. So it was interesting to hear many of my friends who advocate equal application of criminal justice talk about how Berman needed to make an example of Manafort. These are the same people who loudly say the criminal justice system should be about rehabilitation and should never be used as punishment for punishments sake. Manafort is 69 years old and faces 7 years of prison. Thats just about the equivalent of a life sentence. Meanwhile, the district attorney in New York has charged him with 16 state offenses, possibly to ensure that he does time if Trump pardons him for his federal convictions. His troubles are far from over. Pelosi says no: House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says that short of earth-shattering revelations or indictments, an impeachment of President Trump is not in the cards. Too divisive for the nation, Pelosi said. As the speaker noted, she didnt support calls for impeaching George W. Bush for lying to the American people about Saddam Husseins supposed weapons of mass destruction. And those lies led to the Iraq War. She has a point. Compared with starting a war, lying about paying hush money to a porn star seems pretty tame. Although selling out the country to Russia could be another matter. London calling: Mayor London Breed had a good week. Naming Manohar Mano Raju as the new public defender won universal applause in the office, including from its chief attorney, Matt Gonzalez. Then came the promotion of Deputy Fire Chief Jeanine Nicholson to replace retiring Chief Joanne Hayes-White, which likewise was embraced by just about everybody. Nicholson becomes the first LGBT fire chief in San Francisco. The appointments gave Breed a reason to be on TV for dealing with something besides homelessness. In this town, thats a plus. Great eats: Believe it or not, the Daily Beast reports that there is now an app that can direct President Trumps supporters to friendly restaurants, wherever they are. Sort of a Yelp for MAGA types. Movie time: Captain Marvel. This female action hero movie is sooooo long. The plot is convoluted and stunts are all computer-generated and lack credibility. Still, if you like big, loud movies, you might enjoy it. I went to a 9:30 a.m. showing, when it was cheapest. You might want to as well. The Wedding Guest: A good movie with a surprise ending. Its about a bride who doesnt want to get married, a mercenary who kidnaps her, and a wild ride through modern India. The characters all share an absence of any loyalty to anyone or anything at any time. Truly a movie for the Trump era. The Is have it: Congratulations to longtime City Hall aide Martha Cohen. Youve probably never heard of her, but for decades she has helped put together all the major civic celebrations, from World Series parades to the Fourth of July fireworks. Cohen was being honored recently at a luncheon by the Triple I, an old-time Italian, Irish and Israeli group that mutually celebrates their national holidays. Cohen was first hired by Mayor Frank Jordan and has stayed on through the administrations of every mayor since. She shows no sign of letting up on the gas. The annual Triple I lunch in North Beach is about as San Francisco as you can get. The bar opens at 11 a.m. But as longtime Three I member and lawyer Jeremiah Hallisey said just before the clocks switched over, With daylight-saving time, its noon. Thats the San Francisco spirit. Want to sound off? Email wbrown@sfchronicle.com For more than six decades, the Federal Aviation Administration has relied on employees of airplane manufacturers to do government-required safety inspections as planes are being designed or assembled. But critics say the system, dubbed the designee program, is too cozy as company employees do work for an agency charged with keeping the skies safe while being paid by an industry that the FAA is regulating. There is a potential conflict of interest, said Todd Curtis, a former Boeing Co. safety engineer and creator of airsafe.com, a website that focuses on airline safety. They (the FAA) dont have the money to do all of the oversight. Its a question of being practical. The FAAs oversight duties are coming under greater scrutiny after deadly crashes involving Boeing 737 Max jets operated by airlines in Ethiopia and Indonesia, killing a total of 346 people. The U.S. was nearly alone in allowing the planes to keep flying until it relented on Wednesday after getting satellite evidence showing the crashes may be linked. The FAA concedes that it doesnt have resources to keep up with a growing aviation industry, and experts say it lacks the personnel to inspect every component, especially those made in other countries. But the agency says the programs results speak for themselves. The U.S. has the safest skies in the world. Until April of last year, U.S. passenger airlines had not had a fatality since 2009, while carrying several billion passengers. But safety experts say its time to look into the agencys relationship with Boeing. The FAAs ties to the company were revealed when Boeing and the agency released similar messages shortly after the Indonesian airliner crashed in October and again this week, when the FAA announced that Boeing would upgrade the Maxs flight-control software, said Mary Schiavo, a former Transportation Department inspector general. With the messages, the FAA revealed that they were just parroting what Boeing told them, she said. The agency needs more people with technical skills to adequately monitor a company that makes machines as sophisticated as todays jets, she said, contending that it didnt understand the Maxs flight-control computer program. The FAA readily states they dont understand the 4 million lines of code and the 150 computers, Schiavo said. What they do is see that Boeing followed the process, they checked the FAA boxes. The public thinks the FAA has more involvement. Indeed, the agencys own website says that employees of manufacturers can approve design changes and aircraft repairs. Using designees for routine certification tasks allows the FAA to focus its limited resources on safety critical certification issues, it says. Congress will examine the relationship between Boeing and the FAA. Rep. Peter A. DeFazio, D-Ore., chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said he would hold hearings on the FAAs process for approving the planes. The agencys practice of delegating certification processes has come under scrutiny before. In a 1993 report, the Government Accountability Office warned that the FAA was falling behind the industry in technical competence because of lack of training and delegation of tasks to the manufacturers. The report said 95 percent of certification work for the Boeing 747-400 jetliner was delegated to the manufacturer in 1989. By comparison, 70 to 75 percent of that work was done by the FAA in the early 1980s, the report said. In a separate report in 2005, the GAO said the FAA had no requirements for evaluating its designated certification workers within the industry. It also had incomplete records about safety violations that occurred during the inspection process. FAA designees have also run afoul of the law. Last February, Edward Carl Fernandez, an FAA-designated representative in Florida, pleaded guilty to falsely certifying the airworthiness of aviation parts. Between 2010 and 2013, prosecutors said, Fernandez would sign off on parts from an aviation repair company in exchange for bribes. Checks by the employees, who are paid by the airplane makers, are reviewed by government inspectors. In a 2017 video, FAA Assistant Administrator Peggy Gilligan said the agency had 6,000 engineers and aircraft inspectors overseeing 7,500 designees in aircraft certification and flight standards. Another 4,000 designees are working at FAA-approved companies, like parts suppliers. Curtis, who worked for Boeing from 1991 to 2000, said the system is designed so that company employees defer to the FAA if they find something wrong. Peter Goelz, a former NTSB managing director who now is an aviation safety consultant, said the system has worked well for years. But at times like this, people start to question it, he said. Hes not one of them, though, saying that the proof is in the outcome. We have had the safest aviation system in the world for a long time, Goelz said. The size of the bureaucracy you would need to move to a completely gotcha environment simply would be unsustainable. James Hall, a former chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, said he thinks the agency may have gotten complacent. We have a good system, said Hall, the former NTSB chairman, and sometimes people go to sleep when things are going well. Its time to wake up. Tom Krisher, David Koenig and Dee-Ann Durbin are Associated Press writers. Riley Newman, a former head of data science at Airbnb, set out in mid-2017 to raise a venture capital fund that would invest in a multitude of tech trends. But he quickly realized that potential investors were not interested in that kind of fund. Instead, all they wanted to hear about were his former Airbnb colleagues and whether they might start their own companies. It was, Yeah, all that stuff is fine, but Airbnb, right? Newman, 36, said. Airbnb was where we had a competitive edge on the market. So Newman and his partners at San Franciscos Wave Capital adjusted their pitch: They said they were creating a fund to invest specifically in Airbnb employees who were planning to leave the company to become entrepreneurs. It worked. He and his partners quickly secured $55 million and now are preparing to make a flood of investments after the $31 billion home rental startup goes public sometime in the next year and employees cash out their shares. We know they are planning to start companies, Newman said of Airbnb employees, adding that in one week alone he had heard from four who left to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Everyone else in Bay Area tech seems to know it, too. As Lyft, Pinterest, Postmates, Slack and Uber among some of this decades most prominent startups get ready for their stock market listings, investors are preparing to write checks to a new generation of companies created by their workers. Its part of Silicon Valleys often-incestuous circle of life. The startup world projects a meritocratic image, but in reality, it is a small, tight-knit club where success typically hinges on whom you know. In this model, employees of tech startups frequently leave the companies once they have been enriched by their firms initial public offerings. Then networks of alumni from these companies called mafias support their peers new businesses with hiring, advice and money. The cycle goes back to at least the 1950s, when Fairchild Semiconductor, one of Silicon Valleys earliest successes, was started by a group of disgruntled Shockley Semiconductor employees called the Traitorous Eight. Decades later, early employees of PayPal, known as the PayPal Mafia, are more famous for their successes after leaving the company many of which they collaborated on with one another than for their initial breakthrough in digital payments. The group includes Elon Musk and Peter Thiel, as well as the creators of YouTube, Yelp and LinkedIn. Silicon Valley is now anticipating new mafias connected to Uber, Airbnb and their brethren after the companies go public. Its going to trigger a massive explosion in entrepreneurship, said Howard Lindzon, an entrepreneur in Phoenix who invests in five to 10 venture capital funds a year. He said he particularly wanted to put money into funds with connections to the Uber and Airbnb networks. Venture capital firms are already hiring former employees from Uber and other IPO-ready companies to get a foothold in their networks. Some of the fiercest recruiting has been of Uber executives, with venture firms including Sequoia Capital and Redpoint Ventures, both of Menlo Park, GV (formerly Google Ventures) of Mountain View snf Javelin Venture Partners of San Francisco all adding former employees from the ride-hailing firm to their ranks. One recruit was Andrew Chen, who worked at Uber as head of rider growth and left the company last year. He has since joined Menlo Park venture firm Andreessen Horowitz as a general partner and hosts quarterly dinners for Uber alumni turned founders. Chen, 36, estimates that two dozen venture-backed startups have come out of Uber so far. Andreessen Horowitz has recently invested in two, which have not been announced. Those are the prime startup investing opportunities, Chen said. The problem is that venture firms might create a brain drain from the likes of Airbnb and Uber if they keep luring the companies workers to start new companies. Talent, after all, is a precious commodity in Silicon Valley. Jonathan Golden, who worked as a director of product at Airbnb and who joined venture firm NEA of Menlo Park last year, said Airbnb was fine with his plans to invest in former employees. He said he had discussed his intentions with Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky before he left the company in 2017. Im not actively trying to have people leave Airbnb, Golden said. But if someone is going to leave, I want to be supportive of them, and Brian is supportive of them as well. Nick Papas, an Airbnb spokesman, said, Were always sad when talented people move on, but its been great to watch so many of our former colleagues succeed. Uber declined to comment. In February, Annie Kadavy, a former Uber executive who is now a venture capitalist at Redpoint, announced an investment in Ike, a self-driving truck company created by who else? ex-Uber employees. Kadavy, 33, who left Uber last year, said her network of former ride-hailing colleagues would help her find and vet deals. In addition, it would help find talent to bring to other startups that Redpoint has invested in. If youre a person leaving a company, who are you going to ask about what company to join next? she said. Your friend who works at a venture firm, because their job is to have a point of view on a bunch of different businesses. In February 2018, Dan Hill and Michelle Rittenhouse, longtime Airbnb employees, felt the entrepreneurial itch and quit. They had a general idea to start a company that would make it easier for people to donate to charity, but not much else. The details didnt matter to Wave Capital, which wanted to invest in them. These are people we know can build great products, Newman said. They know us, they trust us. We know them, we trust them. Within a few weeks of leaving Airbnb, Hill and Rittenhouse had secured $2 million including from Wave Capital for Alma, their newly formed company focused on philanthropy. Entrepreneurs typically make dozens of pitches over several months to raise financing. But Hill said the relatively quick fundraising for his startup was not a surprise. We already had a strong relationship, he said. So when we pitched the idea for Alma and our initial plans, it was an easier conversation. Its a common story among former employees of hot startups. Andrew Chapin, who previously worked at Uber, also said it wasnt hard to round up $3.75 million in October for Basis, his mental health startup, thanks to his reputation among the Uber crowd. When you look at VC, there is a lot of pattern matching and trying to act on that, so if you worked at Uber, you must be OK, Chapin, 31, said. I didnt have to do a lot of pitching. It helps that many of his former colleagues are now millionaires, having cashed out their shares in private stock sales. A syndicate of several hundred former Uber employees are even investing in startups together. Josh Mohrer and William Barnes, early Uber employees who left in 2017, said they used a private email list to manage the syndicates deal selection, adding a few new people to the list each week as they graduate from the company. The group has backed about a dozen startups at a pace of around one a month, they said. To stay on top of all the new companies emerging from Uber, Mohrer and Barnes said, they have organized reunions of former employees in cities around the world, using a Facebook group with more than 1,000 members. The pair also plan to raise an investment fund dedicated to backing Uber alumni under the banner of Moving Capital, according to three people familiar with the project, who asked to remain anonymous because the details are private. How will Silicon Valleys new mafias be different from those in the past? The Uber and Airbnb networks are part of a generation that pioneered the gig economy and everything that came with it. That means many fought real-world policy issues, as opposed to primarily dealing with the digital world. There are just not that many places to find people who have seen that kind of scale, said Ryan Graves, Ubers former senior vice president of global operations and a member of the companys board. Each city that Uber, Airbnb, Lyft or Postmates expanded into created a new set of operational, regulatory and business challenges. Regulators balked. Rival business operators resisted. Neighbors protested. And people abused the services, over and over. Uber managers ran each city like a mini-startup. If you were the general manager of San Francisco or of Atlanta, you were the CEO of your region, Chen said. It led to a really entrepreneurial approach from everyone. The thorniest challenge for Uber alumni may be showing that they have learned from the companys ugly 2017, when its toxic culture of harassment, discrimination and ethical lapses was exposed. Blaine Light, a former Uber employee, said he had taken the importance of creating an inclusive culture to heart. Half of the employees at Qwick, a 20-person startup in Phoenix that he joined as a co-founder in 2018, are women, and the staff includes a mix of races, backgrounds and sexual orientations. Light said he emphasized a culture of humility. Uber people, in general, are looking to take what weve learned and make something better this time, he said. Erin Griffith is a New York Times writer. A 41-year-old English teacher at El Cerrito High School was arrested on suspicion of soliciting and possessing child pornography, according to the El Cerrito Police Department. Christopher Silva was arrested by detectives at his Richmond residence on Wednesday and was booked into the Martinez Detention Facility. Formal charges are pending further investigation, and the West Contra Costa Unified School District is cooperating with detectives. MORE CRIME NEWS: Mother of girl found dead in duffel bag is extradited to California from Texas Silva was not immediately available for comment. El Cerrito Police Department Detectives encourage anyone with information pertinent to the investigation to call them at (510) 215-4418 or email them at investigations@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us. Eric Ting is an SFGATE staff writer. Email him at eting@sfchronicle.com and follow him on Twitter Start receiving breaking news emails on floods, 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. SFGATE is exploring how people's lives change after leaving the Bay Area, for better or for worse, in a new series. Click through the slides above to hear from those who have relocated to Austin, Texas. We'll explore other relocation areas in future articles, so follow SFGATE for more. Sam Whittington often catches himself daydreaming about Austin, Texas. The affordable housing, the laid-back lifestyle, the Tex Mex all the stereotypes of Southern living have captured his imagination, he says. The 28-year-old product designer has lived in the Bay Area for 10 years now, and hes ready for life away from tech and taxes. There are few cities as weird and wild as San Francisco used to be, Whittington said. Austin, I think, has retained its individual spirit, while SF has been slowly selling its spirit to high bidders. Like a true millennial, Whittingtons Austin inclinations have inspired some philosophical soul-searching. Is it the growing mediocrity of the city that inspires him to leave, he wonders, or is it a general discontent with the world? Whichever it is, I wont know unless I leave the bubble, he said. Theres certainly an air of romanticism inherent to Whittingtons vision of the liberal capital of Texas, but is there truth in it? Can one truly drown his homesickness in queso? SFGATE spoke to folks who left the Bay Area for Austin to find out (see all of their responses in the above gallery). Curb appeal After an ill-fated Austin vacation 12 years ago, Emma Massingill said she swore up and down that shed never move to Texas. Things changed after college, when she found herself struggling to save money, even while working long hours at a Santa Cruz newspaper and living with her parents. I didnt really have a choice, Massingill said of leaving the Bay Area. Who wants to be 23 and living at home? Six months after moving to Austin, Massingill confidently confided that she does 3/4 the amount of work for almost double the pay. And recently she signed a lease on a three-bedroom house with no roommates. Youd have to pay me to move back to the Bay, she said. VIDEO: The cost of living in Austin vs. San Francisco (story continues below) The next Silicon Valley? Not so much. Paul OBrien, 41, has lived in Austin for seven years now, and hes careful not to idealize the city. Life in Austin, like most cities, involves some concessions. Theres affordable housing, but property taxes are high. Theres less traffic, but also limited public transportation. And coming from San Francisco, you better be ready for a pay cut (although the cost of living is exceptionally lower; Bankrates cost-of-living calculator claims a $100,000 salary in San Francisco metro is the equivalent of $183,750 in Austin metro). Analysts have been quick to pin Austin as the next Silicon Valley, and with reason. Its a hub for startups, with 105.2 startups per 1,000 residents, according to the Kauffman Index of Startup Activity, compared to San Franciscos 82.7 per 1,000 residents. Its home to major Google, Apple and Facebook outposts. In 2016, Austin businesses garnered $590.4 million in venture capital. And, perhaps most importantly, its still affordable for young tech-minded folks to live (Zillow says the median home value is $321,600). Media reports back up such sentiments. Realtor.com listed Austin No. 1 on its list of the next big tech hubs, as did CNBC and the Kauffman Foundation (two years in a row). The New York Times was ahead of the trend, asking Is Austin the Next Silicon Valley? back in 1988. OBrien, an Austin-based serial start up executive, CMO, scale architect, isnt buying it. Were not the next Silicon Valley, he says. Were where traditional industries are being disrupted and innovated. Although theres just as much capital and investment in Texas, OBrien says business works differently. We dont do search engines; we dont do social networks. Investors arent familiar with those kinds of things, he explained. Rather, investors and entrepreneurs are identifying ways to apply technology to industries with which Texas is familiar, such as education, politics, real estate and agriculture. OBrien admits that venture capitalists are sometimes more hesitant to invest in Texan tech than they are in California, but not because of a discomfort with risk. He says the wild Texan sense of independence means Texans are encouraged and expected to do something on their own. That lone ranger mentality spills into the office space. Those looking for the traditional stability of a 9-to-5 job might be in for a shock upon arriving in Austin, O'Brien noted, where a culture of freelancing and co-working thrives. Its just not as easy to follow a corporate career path in Austin, he said, which is a blessing in disguise for some people. Get down with the honky tonk debate Though the city has seen a 16.9 percentage point population increase since 2010, Austin retains its Texan flair. Many of the Bay Area ex-pats interviewed for this story admitted to holding certain stereotypes about Austin before moving, some of which were proven true upon arrival. Massingill, for example, wishes dates would stop taking her out to the local honky tonk. As a vegan and animal lover, shes also sick of hearing about their guns, and seeing them pop up in profile pictures on Tinder. And I wish theyd stop calling me Man, she said. On the flip side, Massingill has found herself surprisingly pleased with the chivalrous attitude: Since moving here, Ive hardly had to open a door for myself. Austins vegan community was a major plus and shock for Natalie Dubovitskaya, 34, who landed there from San Jose four years ago. Everyone told me Austin was all about barbecue, she recalled. Upon moving, however, she discovered a thriving vegan community in a city that hosts an annual VegFest. Mexican cuisine, however, is controversial among those who left the Bay Area. It's garbage, said San Jose native Josh Symons, 36, who moved to Austin a year ago. "Seriously, TexMex doesn't cut it." For Symons, the TexMex versus CaliMex debate is serious. Although he says has no intention to return to California even for a visit he gets sentimental when discussing its Mexican food. "I miss burritos," he says, before launching into a rant about Texans' queso obsession. "Cheese is the greatest thing ever," he said, "but it just doesn't belong on everything!" 'Golden handcuffs' Whittington, the Oakland resident with his eye on Austin, isn't worried about drowning in queso or craving a Mission-style burrito. For him, that nagging desire to move to Austin transcends such trivialities. Even for a twentysomething single, picking up and moving isn't so simple. "San Francisco has those golden handcuffs," he said. "Moving to Texas and taking that Texas-sized pay cut could be like exiling myself from this place." SFGATE is exploring how people's lives change after leaving the Bay Area, for better or for worse, in a new series. Today we're focusing on those who have relocated to the Pacific Northwest. We'll explore other relocation areas in future articles, so follow SFGATE and also share your stories. Tori Sepand, 23, discovered that the grass really is literally greener in the Pacific Northwest for a reason. Rain. "I'm used to sunshine," said Sepand, an East Bay native who moved to Seattle in 2015. "What I didn't expect is how much the weather would affect my overall happiness." The weather was enough reason for Anne Moore, 67, to return to Marin after a stint in Bellingham, Wash. "I so missed our radiant California sun melting the heat into my bones," she said, adding that she longed for a "big bowl of clear blue sky." Sepand, on the other hand, longed for a bowl of something the Pacific Northwest has yet to master, in her opinion. EXPENSIVE REAL ESTATE: Morford: $2 million for 825 sq. ft. exemplifies what's wrong with the Bay Area "I miss good Mexican food," she said. Many have left the Bay Area in pursuit of greener and cheaper pastures, but not all those who wander are content in their new cities. Earlier this month, SFGATE profiled people who had moved from the Bay Area to the Pacific Northwest, the region where Bay Area ex-pats are most likely to go, according to a report from LinkedIn. THOSE WHO LEFT: People who left the Bay Area for the Pacific Northwest tell us why Their reasons for leaving rarely strayed. The Bay Area is expensive; it's difficult to buy a home; there's too much traffic. Not everyone, however, was content with their newly northern lifestyle. Some quickly learned that despite the prohibitive cost of living in the Bay Area, there really is no place quite like it. Story continues below. Racial diversity or lack thereof was especially noticeable for Pacific Northwest migrants, accustomed to the heterogeneity of the Bay Area. Census data backs up such observations. About 50 percent of the San Francisco population is white, according to the 2015 U.S. census. In Portland, that number spikes to 76 percent white, and in Seattle it's 69.5 percent. While there may not be exceptional diversity in the Pacific Northwest, there certainly is a wealth of younger people. According to a 2016 study from Oregon Office of Economic Analysis, the largest group of those migrating into Oregon consists of people aged 25 to 34 the infamous millennials. This generation accounted for nearly 30 percent of inbound migration, more than double any other age group. Some Oregonians are none too pleased with the northward migration. Apparently, there's even a "culture of blaming Californians for [the] rising cost of living in Portland," said former San Francisco resident Molly Park, 41. Local media serves to back up Park's sentiments. In 2015, the Oregonian noticed a rash of "No Californians" stickers popping up on For Sale signs in Portland. Around the same time, the Willamette Week began a series called "Invasion of the Transplants," in which new Portland residents told their side of the story. And lest we forget about a GoFundMe campaign launched last year to "Get Californians out of Oregon." See also: San Francisco techies are making the move to Seattle According to Portland resident Eric Foley, 42, it's especially "awkward when the 'where are you from?' question comes up." Even then, Foley, who lived in San Francisco and Oakland for eight years, says the thought of moving back to the Bay Area only crosses his mind occasionally. "I have my doubts that we could afford to move back," he said. Despite its splendor sunny weather, racial diversity, liberal attitude the Bay Area is, simply, expensive. Joe Ellis / Associated Press The Southern Poverty Law Center has fired its co-founder and chief trial lawyer, Morris Dees, after nearly a half-century during which he helped build the organization into a fearsome powerhouse that focused on hate crimes and with an endowment that approached half a billion dollars. The groups president, Richard Cohen, did not give a specific reason for the dismissal of Dees, 82, on Wednesday. But Cohen said in a statement that as a civil-rights group, the SPLC was committed to ensuring that the conduct of our staff reflects the mission of the organization and the values we hope to instill in the world. DUBUQUE, Iowa As she waited to meet former Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper at a recent house party in Dubuque, attorney Connie OConnor was anxious about the liberal direction of the Democratic presidential primary. I know a lot of people who dont want to vote for Donald Trump but dont necessarily want to vote for the presidential version of Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez, she said, referring to the recently elected progressive congresswoman from New York. I think we forget those people are out there. But about 80 miles away, union organizer Eli Shepherd pointed to the thousands of people flocking to a Bernie Sanders rally at the University of Iowa as proof that the self-described democratic socialist is best positioned to beat the Republican now in the White House. People get brought in (to the campaign) because its something they deeply care about, Shepherd said. When theres a campaign thats actually focused on that, thats whats exciting, thats whats transformative, thats how you win. Democrats have a long fight ahead over this question of whos right. The early days of the Democratic contest are dominated by a debate over whether candidates such as Sanders are moving the party too far left or whether the embrace of liberal priorities will fire up the base and help defeat Trump. That debate is sure to deepen if former Vice President Joe Biden enters the race and tries to establish himself as a prominent centrist counterweight to Sanders, a Vermont senator. In the opening days of his 2020 campaign, former Texas Rep. Beto ORourke also has sought to appeal to both parties. Theres a tension, and thats what presidential campaigns are about, said Simon Rosenberg of the New Democratic Network. So far, the candidates are racing to prove their progressive bona fides on issues such as Medicare for All and the Green New Deal. Yet surveys suggest Democratic voters are less eager to tack left. A Monmouth Poll last month found 56 percent of registered Democrats said their top priority was a candidate who could beat Trump even if they disagreed with that person on most issues. A Pew Research Center poll in January found that 53 percent of Democrats wanted the party to become more moderate, while 40 percent wanted it to become more liberal. Though a few insurgents won Democratic congressional primaries last year, most notably Ocasio-Cortez, most of those contests were captured by candidates backed by the party establishment. Nicholas Riccardi and Alexandra Jaffe are Associated Press writers. Susan Walsh / Associated Press WASHINGTON Wearing workout gear and carrying water bottles, fans of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg celebrated her 86th birthday by exercising in front of the high court. The courts oldest justice has become known for her workouts, which include push-ups and planks. The justice has worked out on camera with Late Show host Stephen Colbert, and footage of her routine was also part of the 2018 documentary RBG. A book about her workout by her longtime trainer came out in 2017. NEW YORK Insider testimony, emails and other evidence show President Trump turned his charitable foundation into a wing of his White House campaign, New Yorks attorney general said in a new court filing. State Attorney General Letitia James, a Democrat, detailed her case against the foundation in a 37-page filing Thursday in a lawsuit that seeks $2.8 million in restitution and an order banning Trump and his three eldest children from running any New York charities for 10 years. The filing was a response to an earlier court submission from the foundations lawyers, who have argued that the lawsuit against the charity is both flimsy and politically motivated. The Trump Foundation reached a deal in December to fold and to distribute about $1.7 million in remaining funds to other nonprofits in a court-supervised process. Each charity will get the same amount, and the attorney generals office has the right to reject the ones it deems unfit. That agreement, though, didnt resolve the lawsuit, which says the foundations involvement in a Trump maneuver during the run-up to the Iowa caucuses in 2016 broke rules barring charities from getting involved in political campaigns. At the time, Trump was feuding with Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly and refusing to participate in the networks final Republican presidential primary debate before the caucuses. Instead, he held a rally at which he called on people to donate to veterans charities. The foundation acted as a pass-through for people who heeded his call for donations. In the past, foundation lawyers have said any infractions were minor and that the lawsuit ignored the charitys philanthropic work. Michael R. Sisak is an Associated Press writer. WASHINGTON Rick Gates, a former Trump campaign aide and key cooperator in the special counsels Russia probe, is not ready to be sentenced because he continues to help with several ongoing investigations, prosecutors said in a court filing. Gates is a central figure in special counsel Robert Muellers investigation of Russian election interference and possible coordination with the Trump campaign. But he is also helping federal authorities in New York City who are looking into Trumps inaugural committee as well as lobbying on behalf of foreign interests by prominent Washington insiders. The odds were stacked against Dylan Chidick in the summer of 2017. The Jersey City, New Jersey, high school students family was homeless and he was struggling to study in a shelter. His twin brothers had heart conditions and needed extra care. His mother had lost her job. But this week, he learned that he had been accepted to 17 colleges, including Siena College, Kean University, Caldwell University and York College of Pennsylvania. His academic efforts stood in sharp contrast to the stories of privilege and wealth that emerged from the wide-ranging college admissions scam, in which dozens of wealthy and high-profile parents allegedly bought their childrens admission into elite universities. After the many lessons that Dylan, 17, has had to learn about lifes odds, here was one more. I think it is unfair that people could just buy their way in, said Dylan, speaking Thursday during a break from classes. But I know that it has been happening for a long time, and there is always going to be someone with more privilege and more connections, to have it easier than others. And that means that you have to work harder to achieve the same goals, he said. Any lingering faith in a system of meritocracy was challenged Tuesday when federal prosecutors charged 50 people in what they called the largest college admissions scam ever prosecuted by the Department of Justice. The prosecutors alleged that the parents involved paid millions of dollars in bribes to secure spots for their privileged children. By contrast, other students across the country spoke to The Times this week about the obstacles they had to overcome to prepare for college, such as finding jobs to help their families pay bills or to save for tuition, as well as taking tests over and over, without the benefit of tutors, in hopes of improving their scores and their prospects. Dylans college application process was a fraught period of test-taking, late nights and hopeful anticipation. The first time he took the SAT, he realized he had not started studying for it early enough, and he thought he could do better. He spent long nights studying the second time around and started preparing further in advance, in hopes of becoming the first person in his family to go to college. Dylans family immigrated from Trinidad when he was 7 and settled in Brooklyn, later moving to Jersey City when they were priced out. He enrolled at Henry Snyder High School, where he became an honors student and took advanced placement classes. His mother, Khadine Phillip, found work as a home health care aide. His brothers, who are now 11, needed open-heart surgery and suffered from fainting spells, which Dylan said meant that he had to watch them extra carefully at the playground. In mid-2017, Phillip lost her job and the family lost their home, Dylan said. They moved into a shelter, where they stayed for several months. Even though he would have preferred having a quiet place to study, where he could stay up late to work without having to follow a curfew, Dylan made the most of it and persisted. He took advanced placement classes that summer, worked at a recreation center, and returned to the shelter at 9 p.m. to study. Eventually, with the help of Women Rising, an organization in Jersey City that helps women and their families find housing, counseling and social services, Dylan and his family found a permanent place to live. It was then Dylan started preparing to apply to college, pushing aside the words imprinted in his memory from other students and from educators who had doubted him as a child. It taught me to be persistent, he said. Just because you hear no once doesnt mean you are going to hear no again. Hard work helped form his character, he said. He is now hoping to receive his 18th acceptance notice from his first choice school the College of New Jersey, where he has friends. He plans to become a lawyer. Even before me and my family were homeless, I always knew I wanted to go to college, he said. But after everything they went through, he became even more determined. I vowed to never let my family get into that situation again, he said. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. Over 50 environmental justice organizations in the Bay Area will host a three-day march starting Saturday against Wells Fargo and its support of fossil fuel companies and the "Big Oil" industry. Nonprofit 350 Silicon Valley claims Wells Fargo is the largest lender in the fossil fuel industry, and will stage the 34-mile march from Palo Alto to San Francisco to ask that customers cut their ties with the bank, which they've dubbed "Oily Wells." The march will include stops in seven cities and end Monday with a rally outside the bank's headquarters in San Francisco. "The public needs to be aware that banks enable the climate emergency, and that the oil and gas industry is particularly reliant on Oily Wells," Nicole Kemeny, president of 350 Silicon Valley said in a statement. "Ordinary citizens need to take charge of their future, feel their power and stop letting profiteers roll over them." Wells Fargo has said on a "Frequently Asked Questions" webpage that while it supports the fossil fuel industry's banking, like many other banks, it has also made billions of dollars in commitments to transition the world into clean energy alternatives. "In our operations, we have reduced our own greenhouse gas emissions by 45 percent since 2008 and achieved our goal of powering 100 percent of our global operations with renewable energy," the bank's website says. The protest ultimately asks that Wells Fargo divest entirely from the fossil fuel industry, becoming the first major American bank to do so. Activists will gather at 8 a.m. at 900 Stanford Shopping Center in Palo Alto to begin the march. Vegan meals will be provided and participants are asked to bring personal items if they plan on staying the night. More information is available at https://oilywells.com. Copyright 2019 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. SAN JOSE (BCN) San Jose State University will host the Silicon Valley Women in Engineering Conference on Saturday to bring together more than 100 professionals in the technology field as mentors for visiting students. The fifth annual conference is sold out and will be attended by more than 450 students from 29 California colleges. It will include keynote speakers from HP, Intel and UC Berkeley, along with panels and technology demos. "This is our fifth year of bringing students together with outstanding women and men from all engineering disciplines in order to promote both industry knowledge and career wisdom," SJSU Engineering Dean Sheryl Ehrman said in a news release, describing the conference as life-changing. The conference's goal is to create the next generation of women innovators, and sponsors will showcase technologies in diagnostics, 3D printing, drones, artificial intelligence and other influential fields. "AI, automation, and climate change impacts are among the greatest challenges in human history," Conference Chair Belle Wei said in a statement. "We know with certainty that engineering innovation is a critical success factor in our response to these challenges." The conference will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Diaz Compean Student Union Ballroom at 290 South Seventh St. Copyright 2019 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. EL CERRITO (BCN) El Cerrito police have arrested an English teacher at El Cerrito High School on suspicion of child pornography offenses, police said Friday. Christopher Silva, 41, was arrested at his Richmond home Wednesday on suspicion of soliciting and being in possession of child pornography, according to police Lt. Lauren Caputo. Caputo said Silva is now out on bail. Silva was put on administrative leave the day he was arrested, according to Marcus Walton, a spokesman for the West Contra Costa Unified School District. In a letter sent out to parents, Superintendent Matthew Duffy and Principal Patricia Crespo said the accusations don't involve any current students. But they didn't offer any other details about the investigation. Neither did the police. "We are obviously shocked and dismayed by these allegations and will be working to support all ECHS students in coping with this disturbing news," Duffy and Crespo said in their letter to parents. They also asked parents not to speculate about what may have happened. "While this is disturbing news, we are asking that you refrain from spreading rumors and speculating about this situation," Duffy and Crespo said. Counseling services are available to students and staff affected by the news. A teacher who taught English at the high school last year will take over Silva's classes for the rest of the year. Duffy and Crespo said all teachers must pass a California Department of Justice and FBI background check to be hired. Caputo asked any potential new victims, or anyone with information about the case, to get in touch with police at (510) 215-4418 or investigations@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us. It wasn't immediately clear if Silva had an attorney. Copyright 2019 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. OAKLAND (BCN) Oakland police are looking for the suspect or suspects who shot at an Oakland High School student in a drive-by shooting Friday afternoon. The student was not hit or injured by the gunfire. Felicia Aisthorpe, a spokeswoman for Oakland police, said officers were called to the 1000 block of MacArthur Boulevard near the high school shortly after 1 p.m. Friday after someone reported the shooting. Witnesses told police they saw the gunfire coming from a black vehicle in the area, Aisthorpe said. She said the investigation is ongoing. Police didn't release any other information, including a possible motive. Copyright 2019 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 San Francisco man was arrested and charged Friday with felony animal cruelty following the discovery of a small injured dog in a dumpster, prosecutors said. Ronald Jones, 59, was arrested on suspicion of mistreating a four-month-old Chihuahua mix, which was allegedly dropped through a trash chute into the dumpster three floors below. Prosecutors said the puppy survived four days without food or water until she was found Feb. 25 in the dumpster at apartment complex at Otis and McCoppin streets in the South of Market neighborhood. "The level of callousness alleged is stunningly atrocious," San Francisco District Attorney George Gascon said in a statement. San Francisco Animal Care and Control staff members have named the puppy "Rocky." Prosecutors said officers with animal care and control executed a search warrant and obtained video footage identifying Jones as a suspect and showing the events leading to Rocky's injuries. Rocky had a broken leg when she was found and had to have the leg amputated, according to prosecutors. She will be adopted by one of the investigating animal care and control officers. Prosecutors said Jones appeared in court Friday and pleaded not guilty. Jones is scheduled to back in court on March 28. Copyright 2019 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 police are on alert and Muslim leaders in the Bay Area are denouncing the terror attacks that left 49 people dead and more wounded in New Zealand. "We mourn the heartbreaking killings of men, women and children gathered for prayer in their houses of worship," said Ammad Wajahat Rafiqi, a civil rights and legal coordinator for the Council on American-Islamic Relations' Bay Area office in Santa Clara. Rafiqi also asked for support from other leaders. "...(We) urge leaders in our nation and worldwide to speak out forcefully against the growing anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant hate that appears to have motivated growing white supremacist attacks against vulnerable communities such as Muslims, Jews, Sikhs and African-Americans," he said. A gunman opened fire at two different mosques in New Zealand during prayers on Friday, killing 49 people. Many more were wounded. Authorities also found explosives attached to a vehicle, according to national news reports. A suspect has been arrested. In the United States, authorities were posted outside mosques. San Francisco police officers are doing extra passing calls around mosques in the city, according to spokesman Joseph Tomlinson. "It's a precautionary measure," Tomlinson said. "We want to at least be aware." Rafiqi also suggested Muslim organizations step up their own security following the attacks. "In the wake of this tragedy, we urge mosques, Islamic schools and other community institutions in the United States and around the world to take stepped-up security precautions, particularly during times of communal prayer," he said. Rafiqi said community leaders are holding vigils for the victims this weekend in the East Bay and South Bay. At 6:30 a.m. Saturday, the South Bay Islamic Association is holding a prayer gathering at 2345 Harris Way in San Jose. Later at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, a vigil is being held at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Library on the campus of San Jose State University in San Jose. The Pacific Institute is holding two vigils at 8 p.m. Saturday. One is at 1257 Tasman Drive in Sunnyvale and the other is being held at 979 San Pablo Ave. in Albany. Sunday, a remembrance will be held at 3:30 p.m. at the Muslim Community Center-East Bay at 5724 W. Las Positas Blvd. in Pleasanton and at 5:30 p.m. a candlelight vigil will be held in the Multifaith Sanctuary in St. Joseph's Hall at Santa Clara University. Copyright 2019 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. NEW YORK, March 15, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of U.S. Xpress Enterprises, Inc. (U.S. Xpress or the Company) (NYSE: USX). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at rswilloughby@pomlaw.com or 888-476-6529, ext. 9980. The investigation concerns whether U.S. Xpress and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. [Click here to join a class action] On November 1, 2018, U.S. Xpress issued a press release announcing the Companys financial and operating results for the third fiscal quarter and nine months ending September 30, 2018. Therein, and in a conference call discussing the results, U.S. Xpress disclosed how unusual shipping patterns were impacting its segments and how market challenges for drivers resulted in a year-to-year tractor count decrease. The Company and its executives further disclosed higher driver wages and independent contractor costs, lower than expected recruitment levels, and a higher insurance expense. On this news, U.S. Xpresss stock price fell $3.04 per share, or nearly 30%, to close at $7.10 per share on November 2, 2018. The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com. CONTACT: Robert S. Willoughby Pomerantz LLP rswilloughby@pomlaw.com Photographer Lee McMullen, a former professor of microbiology, now spends his days looking through a lens, capturing the breathtaking landscapes at Big Bend National Park in west Texas. McMullen, 69, captured what he claims is the largest bloom of bluebonnets at Big Bend in more than three decades. Originally from Fort Worth, McMullen is a retired professor, fellow, and cell & molecular biology researcher with a PhD in biology. Around 2009, he moved to far Terlingua, Texas, a town cradled near the north part of the park, to pursue his passion for photography. ANALYSIS: Texas could see the best wildflower season in 10 years "If I had to pick one thought as to how to live one's life it would be to do whatever you do with quality," McMullen said. He now spends his days backpacking the expansive 1,250 square miles of Big Bend in search of scenes that showcase one of the most beautiful parts of Texas. "I wanted my work to be unique," McMullen said. "I wanted to capture an aesthetically pleasing view of this area, to photograph this area of Texas as never seen before." McMullen captured breathtaking portraits of a recent bluebonnet bloom in the southern part of the park that he says stretches on for miles. During last year's bloom, McMullen captured a patch of bluebonnets that appear glowing underneath the Milky Way. "Mocking birds were singing, and the frogs were serenading me all night long," McMullen said recalling when he captured the photo. "The slight ripple of creek the smell of the water and the beauty of it all made me realize how lucky I was." To learn more about McMullen and his photos, he can be reached at leemcmter@gmail.com. Jay R. Jordan covers breaking news in the Houston area. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and our subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com | Follow him on Twitter at @JayRJordan | Email him at jay.jordan@chron.com | Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message NEW YORK, March 15, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Gainey McKenna & Egleston announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC or the Company) (NYSE: UMC) in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York on behalf of those who purchased or acquired the securities of UMC between October 28, 2015 and November 1, 2018, inclusive (the Class Period), seeking to recover damages caused by Defendants violations of the federal securities laws and to pursue remedies under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the Exchange Act) and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder. The Complaint alleges Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) UMC conspired with Fujian to steal trade secrets from Micron relating to its research and development of DRAM; (2) UMC hired former Micron employees for the purpose of stealing such information from Micron; (3) the foregoing conduct placed UMC and certain of its employees at an increased risk of criminal and regulatory investigation by the U.S. government; and (4) as a result, UMCs public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. On May 13, 2016, the Company announced that it had entered into a Dynamic Random-Access Memory (DRAM) Technology Cooperation Agreement with Fujian Jianhua Integrated Circuit Co. Ltd. (Fujian). Under the agreement, Fujian was to provide UMC with related equipment for its research and development, as well as service fees subject to the progress of the technology development. UMC was to develop DRAM related technologies for Fujian and deliver such development results to Fujian before May 12, 2021. The developed technologies were to be jointly owned by both parties. DRAM is a memory device product used in electronics to store information. DRAM is a technologically advanced commodity that is widely used in digital electronics, as well as leading-edge computing, consumer, networking, automotive, industrial, embedded, and mobile productions. At all relevant times, one of UMCs primary competitors has been Micron Technology, Inc. (Micron), a leading U.S. semiconductor company known for its development and production of DRAM products. On November 1, 2018, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) indicted UMC, Fujian, and Chen Zhengkun a.k.a. Stephen Chen (Chen), a former Micron employee hired by UMC, for conspiracy to commit economic espionage, conspiracy to commit theft of trade secrets, and economic espionage (receiving and possessing stolen trade secrets). The indictment stated that the companies conspired to steal trade secrets from Micron relating to its research and development of memory storage devices. According to the indictment, the conspiracy to commit economic espionage began in or around January 2016, the conspiracy to commit theft of trade secrets began in or about October 2015, and the economic espionage (receiving and possessing stolen trade secrets) began in or about February 2016. Investors who purchased or otherwise acquired shares during the Class Period should contact the Firm prior to the May 13, 2019 lead plaintiff motion deadline. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. If you wish to discuss your rights or interests regarding this class action, please contact Thomas J. McKenna, Esq. or Gregory M. Egleston, Esq. of Gainey McKenna & Egleston at (212) 983-1300, or via e-mail at tjmckenna@gme-law.com or gegleston@gme-law.com. Please visit our website at http://www.gme-law.com for more information about the firm. A group of angry students at New York University confronted former first daughter Chelsea Clinton at a vigil for the 49 people killed in shootings at two mosques in New Zealand, and blamed her "rhetoric" for causing the shooting. In a video that subsequently went viral, a female student wearing a Bernie Sanders 2020 t-shirt can be seen telling Clinton, "The 49 people died because of the rhetoric you put out there" after Clinton condemned Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) for using anti-Semitic tropes. "This right here is the result of a massacre stoked by people like you and the words that you put out into the world," the student says. "And I want you to know that and I want you to feel that deep inside. The 49 people died because of the rhetoric you put out there." RELATED: Stricken New Zealanders reach out to Muslims after shooting "I am so sorry you feel that way and certainly it was never my intention," Clinton can be heard saying. "I do believe that words matter." "What does I'm sorry you feel that way mean?" another student yells out to the former first daughter. After Omar faced bipartisan backlash for insinuating that politicians support Israel because of donations from AIPAC and other American Jewish groups, Clinton tweeted, "We should expect all elected officials, regardless of party, and all public figures to not traffic in anti-Semitism." The account that first shared the video of Chelsea Clinton wrote the caption, "the CAUCASITY that chelsea clinton has showing up to a vigil for the 49 muslims massacred in an islamophobic hate crime after STOKING ISLAMOPHOBIA AND RACISM surrounding ilhan omar... f ing ridiculous." ALSO: Tech companies scramble to remove New Zealand shooting video The account was subsequently deleted after facing backlash from all over the political spectrum. "Hey, so, gonna go out on a limb here and say that Chelsea Clinton isn't one bit responsible for the terrorist attack in New Zealand, and it's incredibly disturbing to see even one person harass her in public and make such a ridiculous claim," progressive activist Charlotte Clymer tweeted. "It's sickening to see people blame @ChelseaClinton for the NZ attacks because she spoke out against anti-Semitism," tweeted Donald Trump Jr. "We should all be condemning anti-Semitism & all forms of hate. Chelsea should be praised for speaking up. Anyone who doesn't understand this is part of the problem." However, a number of progressives defended the students who confronted Clinton. "Chelsea Clinton is an enormously powerful and influential person and it's okay for a grieving college student to yell at her," HuffPost writer Ashley Feinberg tweeted. Another progressive activist wrote, "chelsea clinton's white tears are dangerous." Click through the slideshow above to see reactions to the confrontation. Responding to reporters questions on Vietnams reaction to the shooting attacks, Hang said Vietnam extends its deepest condolences to the New Zealand Government, the victims and their families. The spokesperson stressed that Vietnam believes the Government and people of New Zealand, with their firm will and resolve, will soon overcome the loss and the instigators of the attacks will receive their due punishment. The Vietnamese Embassy in New Zealand has affirmed that there is no report on any Vietnamese victims in the shooting attacks. The embassy said, as of 16:14 hours on March 15, the number of dead victims was reported at 49, while 48 others were injured in the incidents. The Foreign Ministry has instructed the embassy to keep up to date with related developments, maintain constant contact with the local authorities and take citizen protection measures when necessary. In case of needing support, Vietnamese nationals are advised to contact the Vietnamese Embassy in New Zealand via the hotline +6421898814 or Vietnams citizen protection hotline +84 981 8484 84. Los Angeles, CA, March 15, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- M2 Compliance ("M2"), a leading SEC registered filing agent and financial printer, will be proudly sponsoring the 31st Annual ROTH Conference, a premier investor event with approximately 550 participating companies and over 4,700 attendees. The conference is scheduled for March 17-19, 2019 at the Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel in Dana Point, CA. M2 will be meeting with public companies and attorneys to promote the M2 Bundle, IPO Program and to provide more insight towards upcoming regulatory iXBRL changes. M2 is the most disruptive provider in the regulatory compliance industry and is the only firm to offer the industry-leading UNLIMITED PROGRAM ($4,995 per year) for all your SEC filings (EDGAR & XBRL/iXBRL), including but not limited to: Annual & Quarterly Reports (10-K, 10-Qs, 40-F, 20-F), Material Events (8-K, 6-K), Proxy Statements (14A, 14C), Prospectuses (424B3, 424B4, 424B5) Registration Statements (S-1, S-3, S-4, S-8, F-1, F-3, F-4) and Reg A Offerings (1-A) , Annual Reports (1-K), Semiannual Reports (1-SA), Current Reports (1-U), Amendments. This program has NO LIMITATIONS and includes all SEC form types for both EDGAR & XBRL/iXBRL. We will be promoting the following NEW M2 programs at the conference: M2 BUNDLE ($4,995 per year) includes the following: UNLIMITED EDGAR & XBRL/iXBRL (includes iXBRL phase-in) FREE Investor Relations Portal (includes SEC filings, stock chart, and newsfeed) $179 NEWSWIRE with unlimited words and nationwide distribution $500 typeset credit per year which can be applied to any file Guaranteed cost reduction of 25% versus any competitor TRADITIONAL IPO PROGRAM: This program will allow you to file your entire IPO EDGAR filings inclusive of all amendments with no upfront costs , subject to engaging the UNLIMITED PROGRAM at the rate of $4,995 per year and paying the first installment of $1,665 within three months of the initial IPO filing. M2 has grown to represent over 1,100 public companies in the past ten years, has filed over 30,000 files to-date with the SEC and handled nearly 12% of all the deals in the industry during 2018. With more than 130 employees and significant investments in regulatory technology, M2 can deliver a truly dedicated service and the most efficient drafting 24/7. In addition, M2 has a dedicated IPO Team with over 30 years of collective experience to support the preparation of more complex registration work; all IPO-related filings are included in the UNLIMITED PROGRAM. Contact Information David McGuire, CEO Tel: (310) 402-2681 www.m2compliance.com California Governor Gavin Newsom joked that he and President Donald Trump "may have had" a discussion about the relationship between Newsom's ex-wife, Kimberly Guilfoyle and Trump's eldest son, Donald Trump, Jr. During an interview with BuzzFeed News, Newsom was asked if Trump has ever brought up the fact that his son is dating the ex-wife of one of his biggest political foes. "We may have had a private moment on that conversation, which in and of itself, makes life just interesting," Newsom chuckled. When asked what he thinks of their relationship, Newsom simply said, "Life's interesting." RELATED: Kimberly Guilfoyle laments Gavin Newsom's 'far left' turn, praises Donald Trump Jr. in interview In the span of the interview, Newsom also accused Trump of intentionally using nativist and xenophobic language to satiate his base, and said he believes from private conversations with the president that it's clear Trump knows what he's doing. "He reinforced that he knows exactly what he's doing, he knows the fears and anxiety of his base and he exploits them," Newsom said. "He reinforces it in his actions, he reinforces it in any conversation I've had with him." The governor did not elaborate on what specifically Trump said to him that led him to believe this. MORE: Gavin Newsom places moratorium on executions Newsom was also asked about the massive college admission scandal that rocked a number of high-profile California universities earlier this week. "I know the pressure of having to make it, getting your kids into school, pressures we've all felt from our parents, from society, from our friends," Newsom said. "It's a deeper issue than the bribery and holding these people to account, which they should be." Governor Newsom also decried "legal bribery" in higher education where people who make generous donations to institutions of higher education can easily get their children into those schools. ALSO: Gavin Newsom and Trump Jr. talked on the phone thanks to Kimberly Guilfoyle, and discussed... hair "What about the legal bribery that exists in higher education?" he asked. "Does anyone think someone who writes a 100 million dollar check to a university doesn't have the cell phone of someone influential? Want to connect the dots on that person and see how many letters of recommendation they've made in their lives, and how often those recommendations went to the top of the pile and not the bottom of the pile, and how many of their families, extended or in the future, will have access [to the school]?" The governor also fielded questions on his recent order to halt executions in the state of California, his thoughts on the nascent 2020 Democratic primaries and whether he "missed his moment" to enter the national stage. You can watch his full interview in the video above. Eric Ting is an SFGATE staff writer. Email him at eting@sfchronicle.com and follow him on Twitter Start receiving breaking news emails on floods, 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. Trouble is afoot in Bedrock. The town of Hillsborough in San Mateo County filed a complaint against the region's resident Fred Flintstone, calling the iconic "Flintstone House" at 45 Berryessa Way a public nuisance, and alleging landscape modifications to the home were conducted without planning approvals or building permits. Florence Fang purchased the ostentatious orange-and-purple home, a longstanding visual quirk along a banal stretch of Interstate 280, in 2017 for $2.8 million. Fang is a former publisher of the San Francisco Examiner and now helms the San Mateo-based Florence Fang Family Foundation. According to rubberneckers along I-280, the property gained some new residents shortly after its purchase a herd of dinosaur sculptures. But that's not the only changes Fang made to the property, according to the complaint, filed Wednesday in the Superior Court of California. Starting around 2017, Fang began installing "extensive improvements" in the yard, including the sculptures and a sign reading "Yabba Dabba Doo," the complaint says. SEE ALSO: Colonial on famed trick-or-treating street in Berkeley for sale She also reportedly built a retaining wall, steps, columns, gates, a parking strip and a deck to "accommodate her plan to use 45 Berryessa for parties and social gatherings." The town of Hillsborough claims some of these modifications created "life-safety hazards" that required immediate correction. Fang allegedly instituted the improvements without proper planning approvals or building permits, with the exception of the wall installed at the front of the property. Fang could not be reached for comment. The Hillsborough Building Department issued a series of Stop Work Notices to Fang between December 2017 and August 2018, but she continued to modify the property, the complaint said. Fang was subsequently cited for multiple violations of the Municipal Code. An October hearing held before the Administrative Hearing Panel of Hillsborough issued a unanimous decision finding 45 Berryessa in violation of several sections of the municipal code and deemed the colorful property "a public nuisance." A $200 penalty was imposed. The panel didn't mince words over Fang's sculptures; according to the panel, the dinosaurs are "a highly visible eyesore" that is "out of keeping with community standards." SEE ALSO: Open homes listings in the SF Bay Area The prehistoric creatures, the panel declared, would have to be removed by December 5. As of March 13 the dinosaurs, by all accounts, remain standing atop their perches on the hilly lawn of the Flintstone House. Fang also failed to comply with the other requirements of the panel's decision, the complaint said, though she did pay the penalty fee. Following a Jan. 31 letter warning to Fang that apparently went unheeded, the city filed the Wednesday injunction to enforce Fang's compliance with the panel's decision and order, including the removal of her so-called "landscaping improvements." Constructed by architect William Nicholson in 1976, the Flintstone house built to experiment with new building materials and techniques. The home is a favorite of I-280 commuters and fans of the 1960s animated television series "The Flintstones." It was the fourth most-viewed property in the MLS network in 2017 upon hitting market in 2016, having remained under the same ownership for 20 years. Read Michelle Robertson's latest stories and send her news tips at mrobertson@sfgate.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. The hillsides are green, the flowers are blooming, and the rainy days are beginning to subside. Spring is here and California is calling. With Southwest Airlines due to begin its new Hawaii service from the Bay Area on Sunday (March 17), Hawaiian Airlines plans to add more seats out of San Francisco International this fall with the addition of a second daily flight to Honolulu. The airline already offers daily A330 widebody flights from SFO to both Honolulu and Maui's Kahului Airport. Hawaiian said the new Honolulu flight, which begins October 16, will use a single-aisle Airbus A321neo equipped with first class, Extra Comfort (added legroom) and regular economy seating. The new flight will depart SFO at 7:30 a.m., arriving in Honolulu at 10:10 a.m.; the existing A330 departure to HNL leaves San Francisco at 9:05 a.m. Unlike its larger A330 on the SFO route, the new A321 does not offer lie-flat seats in first class. (Read more about those nice lie-flats in this review.) Southwest's first scheduled Hawaii flight operates from Oakland to Honolulu on March 17. That will be followed by Oakland-Maui service beginning April 7, San Jose-Honolulu May 5, Oakland-Kona and San Jose-Kona May 12, and San Jose-Maui May 26. OAK and Southwest are throwing a party to celebrate the new flights on SATURDAY March 16 from 5-7 pm at Oakland's Jack London Square. "The celebration is open to the public and includes DJs, music, live performances, activities, games, and prizes," says airport spokesperson Keonnis Taylor. More details here. Low-cost Spirit Airlines will add two more California airports to its network on June 20. The carrier plans to begin three daily flights from Sacramento to Las Vegas on that date, and three a day from Burbank to Las Vegas. Spirit currently flies out of Oakland, San Diego and Los Angeles International. This week, Spirit began service at Indianapolis with daily flights to Las Vegas and Orlando, and it announced three more new Indianapolis routes three weekly flights to Myrtle Beach, S.C. beginning May 2, and daily service to both Tampa and Fort Myers, starting November 14. Delta, which recently decided to end its Seattle-Victoria, B.C. flights in September, is increasing its service to Vancouver. The carrier's seasonal summer service from Vancouver to its Atlanta hub will not end in September as previously planned but will extend to year-round operation. From September 1, Delta will offer five flights a week on the route, using a 737-900. We reported last month on United's plans to increase the number of premium seats on 21 of its 38 767-300ERs, and the first of those reconfigured aircraft started flying this week on the Newark-London Heathrow route (UA 110). The overhauled 767s have 46 Polaris business class seats (up from 30 previously) and a new 22-seat Premium Plus premium economy section. They also have 47 extra-legroom Economy Plus seats and 52 in regular economy. "United expects to introduce all the reconfigured aircraft to its fleet by the end of next year," a spokesperson said. What's your favorite United aircraft for the long haul? Leave it in the comments! Got business in South America? Delta this month ended its Orlando-Sao Paulo, Brazil service, but JetBlue launched a new route to the continent. JetBlue started operating daily A320 flights from Ft. Lauderdale to Guayaquil, Ecuador its sixth destination in South America and its second in Ecuador. The airline started Ft. Lauderdale-Quito flights in 2016 and plans to add a second daily seasonal flight on that route this summer. Meanwhile, American Airlines this week suspended all service to Venezuela in view of the rising levels of civil unrest in that country. Don't miss a shred of important travel news! Sign up for our FREE bi-weekly email alerts. It won't be available until spring of 2021, but Lufthansa subsidiary Swiss International Airlines said it plans to get on the premium economy bandwagon, adding that new seating class to its long-haul fleet. Its long-haul planes already have first, business and regular economy cabins. Swiss said the new section will first appear in its 777-300ERs, which will have 24 premium economy seats, and it will thereafter be extended to its entire long-haul fleet "in the medium term." Swiss uses 777-300ERs on its San Francisco and Los Angeles routes to Zurich. Premium economy seats will be configured 2-4-2 (vs. 3-4-3 in economy), with 20 percent greater pitch than regular economy, and 10 percent more seat width and 25 percent more recline. Flown Swiss lately? How was it? Tell us in the comments. Thomas Cook Airlines Air New Zealand is known for offering Economy Skycouch in its main cabin i.e., a row of seats that can be turned into a flat bed, and ANA is providing a similar product, called Economy Couch, on the new Airbus A380s that it will start flying between Tokyo and Honolulu in late May. And now Thomas Cook Airlines is jumping on that bandwagon as well. The airline said it will give passengers on its A330s (which it uses on routes from San Francisco and New York JFK to Manchester, U.K.) the option of converting an economy class row of three seats into a single sleeper seat for a surcharge starting at $260 one-way. Flight crew will make up the bed, providing a mattress, fitted sheet, pillow, blanket and amenity kit. The airline recommends a maximum height of 5 feet 11 inches for customers booking the sleeper seats. Read all recent TravelSkills posts here Get twice-per-week updates from TravelSkills via email! Sign up here Chris McGinnis is the founder of TravelSkills.com. The author is solely responsible for the content above, and it is used here by permission. You can reach Chris at chris@travelskills.com or on Twitter @cjmcginnis. CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Saturday the primary perpetrator in the mosque shootings that killed at least 49 people at two mosques was a licensed gun owner and legally acquired the five guns used in the shootings. Ardern said the countrys national gun laws will change, but did not specify how the laws will be changed. She pronounced the shootings during midday prayers Friday as one of New Zealands darkest days. Most if not all of the victims were gunned down by an immigrant-hating white supremacist who apparently used a helmet-mounted camera to broadcast live video of the slaughter on Facebook. One man was arrested and charged with murder. Brenton Harrison Tarrant appeared in court Saturday morning amid strict security and showed no emotion when the judge read him one murder charge. The judge said it was reasonable to assume more such charges would follow. Two other armed suspects were taken into custody while police tried to determine what role, if any, they played in the cold-blooded attack that stunned New Zealand, a country so peaceful that police officers rarely carry guns. It was by far the deadliest shooting in modern New Zealand history. It is clear that this can now only be described as a terrorist attack, Ardern said, noting that many of the victims could be migrants or refugees. Tarrant, who police say carried out at least one of the shootings, posted a jumbled, 74-page manifesto on social media in which he identified himself by name and said he was a 28-year-old Australian and white supremacist who was out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims. The gunman also livestreamed in graphic detail 17 minutes of his rampage at Al Noor Mosque, where, armed with at least two assault rifles and a shotgun, he sprayed worshipers with bullets over and over, killing at least 41 people. Several more people were killed in an attack on a second mosque in the city a short time later. At least 48 people were wounded, some critically. Police also defused explosive devices in a car. Police did not say whether the same person was responsible for both shootings. They gave no details about those taken into custody except to say that none had been on any watch list. In the aftermath, the countrys threat level was raised from low to high, police warned Muslims against going to a mosque anywhere in New Zealand, and the national airline canceled several flights in and out of Christchurch, a city of nearly 400,000. World leaders condemned the violence and offered condolences, with President Trump tweeting, We stand in solidarity with New Zealand. Pakistans Prime Minister Imran Khan and other Islamic leaders pointed to the bloodbath and other such attacks as evidence of rising hostility toward Muslims since 9/11. New Zealand, with a population of 5 million, has relatively loose gun laws and an estimated 1.5 million firearms, or roughly one for every three people. But it has one of the lowest gun homicide rates in the world. In 2015, it had just eight gun homicides, or what passes for a bad weekend in places like Chicago. Nick Perry and Mark Baker are Associated Press writers. VALENCIA, Venezuela Opposition leader Juan Guaido embarked on a new stage of his campaign to oust President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday as the government staged its own rival rally in the capital of Caracas, a pattern that has unfolded repeatedly as both sides attempt to convey strength. Addressing large crowds in the northern city of Valencia, Guaido pledged to deliver a better life for struggling Venezuelans as he began a planned tour of the country gripped by an economic and political crisis. Were stronger than ever, U.S.-backed Guaido said from a podium draped with a large Venezuelan flag. The leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly also drew cheers with his denunciations of Maduro, although he warned that difficult challenges still lay ahead. Since returning to Venezuela from a Latin American tour on March 4, Guaido has led antigovernment activities in the capital of Caracas and announced plans to take his message to other regions. But he has been unable to force Maduro to step down and hold elections. On Saturday, the government organized its own flag-waving demonstration in Caracas, which attracted large numbers of people. Maduro has remained defiant despite heavy pressure from the United States and other countries arrayed against him, managing to retain the loyalty of most of Venezuelas military leaders. The latest demonstrations come as the South American country recovers power in many areas after widespread blackouts inflicted misery on millions of people, cutting off running water and communications. Guaido and the U.S. said corruption and mismanagement by the government caused the outages, while Maduro claimed the U.S. had launched a cyberattack on the national grid in an ongoing attempt to oust him. Maduro has routinely described Guaido as a collaborator in a U.S. coup plot. Fernando Llano is an Associated Press writer. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. This includes cookies from third party social media websites and ad networks. Such third party cookies may track your use on Sharedots sites for better rendering. Our partners use cookies to ensure we show you advertising that is relevant to you. If you continue without changing your settings, we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies on Sharedots website. However, you can change your cookie settings at any time. Learn more HOUSTON, March 15, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Womans Hospital of Texas, an HCA Houston Healthcare Affiliate, which delivers more babies than any other Texas hospital, early this morning welcomed sextuplets, the odds of which are estimated at one in 4.7 billion. Two sets of twin boys and one set of twin girls were born this morning between 4:50 and 4:59 a.m. The babies were born at weights ranging from one pound, 12 ounces and two pounds, 14 ounces. They are in stable condition and will continue to receive care in the hospitals advanced neonatal intensive care unit. The medical team of Dr. Ziad Haidar, Dr. Sharmeel Khaira and Dr. Israel Simchowitz say the mother, Thelma Chiaka, is doing well. As of 10:30 this morning, Thelma named her daughters Zina and Zuriel. About HCA Houston Healthcare HCA Houston Healthcare is the leading provider of healthcare in the Houston area where excellent trained physicians, nurses and allied health professionals treat almost a million patients and provide more than $2 billion in charity care every year. With an employee base of 15,000, HCA Houston Healthcares comprehensive network includes 15 hospitals, nine outpatient surgery centers, eight freestanding emergency centers and 11 freestanding diagnostic imaging facilities in the greater Houston area. It also includes a regional transfer center that provides one-phone-call access and support for patient transfers into and out of HCA-affiliated facilities as well as access to ground and air transportation within a 150-mile radius. For more information, visit www. HCAHoustonHealthcare.com . HCA Houston Healthcare is part of HCA Healthcares Gulf Coast Division, a comprehensive network of hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, emergency centers and diagnostic imaging facilities in greater Houston, Corpus Christi and South Texas. Facilities in the Gulf Coast Division include: 18 hospitals, nine ambulatory care centers, 12 off-campus emergency centers, and a regional transfer center that provides one phone call access and support for patient transfers into and out of the HCA Gulf Coast Division affiliated hospitals as well as access to ground and air transportation within a 150-mile radius. HCA Gulf Coast Division is part of HCA Healthcare, the nations leading provider of quality healthcare services with 185 hospitals in the United States and England. About The Womans Hospital of Texas Since 1976, The Womans Hospital of Texas has been the states premier facility dedicated to the health and well-being of women, newborns and children. Located near the Texas Medical Center in the heart of Houston, The Womans Hospital of Texas offers expertise and outstanding care in breast health, imaging, gynecology, obstetrics, high-risk pregnancy, neonatology, minimally-invasive surgery and pediatric care. For more information, visit online at www.WomansHospital.com . FOR MORE INFORMATION: Bernard Kaplan Kaplan Public Relations (713) 302-4199 A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cfb70552-d170-498f-b5db-fc29e3973a3e. The relatives of one of the victims of the shooting in Christchurch, New Zealand were left desperately watching for developments on Indonesian television today (March 15). An Indonesian artist named Zulfirman Shah was grievously injured along with his young son, in the shooting at the Christchurch mosque with both recovering in hospital, according to multiple local reports. Zulfirman Syah's relatives were alerted of their family member's condition after the event and were filmed intently watching the coverage from Padang, western Indonesia, as further developments come in. It is believed that up to six Indonesian citizens were either injured or killed among the numerous casualties, while the total death toll stands at 49. Occurred on March 14, 2019 / Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA Info from Licensor: "This video was taken at 11:10 am on March 14th, 2019, on the Mississippi River near Baton Rouge, LA. Myself and two crew members were being ferried to a tugboat we work on, here in Louisiana, (this was our first day back at work after having our week off), when a plume of smoke/steam caught my eye. At first, I didnt know what I was seeing, but as soon as I was able to process the scene I realized what I was seeing was a tugboat and barge that had become hung up on the anchor chain of a large ship. The water level is very high in the river right now, and that greatly increases currents in a river that is already treacherous. Once I realized the tug was certainly going to sink, I reached for my phone and began recording. The initial smoke/steam that caught my eye was from the water that rushed into the engine room and came into contact with the extremely hot main engines and exhaust. There were 4 crewmen aboard this vessel - 3 can be seen to have escaped on to the barge near the end of the video. All 4 crew members escaped the sinking vessel and are safe." Page Content A company owner adopts a dress code that applies mostly to the women in his office: They must wear skirts or dresses; their shoes must have heels; makeup is required; earrings and necklaces should be understated, not too "bold" or "loud." Women in the office are angry. Some hate wearing heels and makeup; others will have to buy new wardrobes. Is this a lawsuit waiting to happen? That's hard to tell. Dress codes based on gender stereotypes can involve a tricky area of the law, said Ernest Haffner, an attorney in the office of legal counsel at the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. If any employee were to sue her employer for gender discrimination because of its dress code, "Courts are going to look at an overall grooming policy and whether it imposes more burden on women than on men," Haffner said. Courts and Dress Codes Company dress codes run the gamut from requiring formal business attire to allowing jeans and T-shirts. For instance, investment bank Goldman Sachs this month told employees that it was loosening its approach to office attire, moving to "a firmwide flexible dress code" and asking employees to "dress in a manner that is consistent with your clients' expectations." Typically, employers should feel comfortable setting different dress standards for men and women. "Generally speaking, courts have upheld dress codes that are different for men and women and [that] have required, essentially, compliance with gender stereotypes, such as men cannot wear makeup while women must," said Debra Weiss Ford, an attorney with Jackson Lewis in Portsmouth, N.H. But employers may face lawsuits if they get too particular about how women or men should dress. They need to be careful not to run afoul of laws that protect workers based on sex, sexual orientation and gender identity. [SHRM members-only Express Request: Relaxed Dress Code for Summer] Is the Dress Code More Burdensome to One Gender? Federal courts have historically allowed different dress standards at work if policies are reasonable and don't place a significantly higher burden on one gender. In one landmark case, a bartender sued her employer because it began demanding that she wear makeup to work. In the case, Jespersen v. Harrah's Operating Co., the 9th Circuit Court ruled in 2006 that the makeup requirement didn't amount to sex discrimination against the bartender. "Although the [employer's] standards required female employees to wear makeup but prohibited men from doing so, the court ruled that the grooming standards, taken as a whole and not limited to the makeup requirement, did not unduly burden women as compared with men, who had to comply with other standards," Haffner said. A court might find it discriminatory if a dress code required women to spend considerably more money on work clothes and grooming. For instance, if a female worker's wardrobe consists mostly of pantsuits and flats that she's been allowed to wear to work, and a company suddenly requires dresses, skirts and heels, she may have to buy new clothes. Or, a court might rule that requiring women to have intricately styled hair and nails would create a financial burden that the men don't have. "Generally, dress codes should not single out female employees," said Robin Shea, an attorney and partner with Constangy Brooks, Smith & Prophete in Winston-Salem, N.C. However, it's possible that such a dress code could pass legal muster if a company reimbursed women for the new clothing that he requires them to wear, she said, or provided an appropriate clothing allowance. Aside from legal considerations, she said, "from a pure employee relations standpoint, I think it is a bad idea to require employees to purchase clothes at their own expense that they would not wear otherwise and that they [maybe] cannot afford." Gender Identity It's never a good idea to base the rationale for a dress-code policy on an employer's desire that women act more "feminine" and men act more "masculine." An employee's clothing choices may reflect his or her gender identity, and employers should note that at least 20 states now prohibit discrimination based on gender identity. For example, a New Hampshire law prohibits employment discrimination based on "a person's gender-related identity, appearance or behavior, whether or not that gender-related identity, appearance or behavior is different from that traditionally associated with the person's physiology or assigned sex at birth." When Men Feel Dress-Code Discrimination Men may feel discriminated against, too, by workplace dress codes. For instance, here are some common disparities in dress code policies for men and women: Women may wear open-toed sandals, while men may not. Men must wear long pants, while women may wear cropped or capri-style pants, or skirts and dresses. Men may not wear earrings, while women can. Men must wear their hair short, while women can wear their hair any length. "Courts have universally said that it's lawful to have policies that allow women to grow their hair long but not men," Haffner said. "There are some [dress codes] that reflect the way society sees women and men wearing their hair." Michele Brenner is an HR professional who recently posted her thoughts about dress codes on the Society for Human Resource Management's (SHRM's) online discussion platform, SHRM Connect. She suggested that if a dress code seems discriminatory, HR should talk with a company owner and try to understand his or her rationale for it. It might also be important, Brenner said, to explain how the dress code, even if legal, may cost the company "in terms of loss of productivity, decrease in morale [and] increase in turnover." "Perhaps you may want to let [a company leader] know that in an economy where we have 4 percent unemployment, it's not necessarily wise to alienate employees." NEW ORLEANS, March 15, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until May 6, 2019 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against CenturyLink, Inc. (NYSE: CTL), if they purchased the Companys securities between May 10, 2018 and March 4, 2019, inclusive (the Class Period). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. Get Help CenturyLink investors should visit us at https://www.claimsfiler.com/cases/view-centurylink-inc-securities-litigation-2 or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options. About the Lawsuit CenturyLink and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws. On March 4, 2019, the Company disclosed that it was unable to file its Form 10-K annual report for the period ended December 31, 2018 on time due to a material weaknesses in internal controls over the Companys revenue recording processes and the procedures for measuring fair value of assets and liabilities assumed in connection with the Level 3 Communications, Inc. On this news, the price of CenturyLinks shares plummeted. The case is Caliendo v. Centurylink, Inc. et al, 19cv1629. About ClaimsFiler ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations. Page Content The Australian economy has had 27 years of ongoing economic growth, creating low unemployment that has resulted in serious recruiting challenges. The country has looked to global immigration as a solution. According to the Australian Department of Jobs and Small Business, employment increased by 2.2 percent over 2018 and the level of unemployment decreased by 9.5 percent, the largest decrease over a calendar year since 1994. The national unemployment rate for early 2019 is steady at around 5 percent, not far from the record low of 4.3 percent set in 2007. According to a recent survey by the department, 44 percent of employers reported having difficulty in their most recent recruitment efforts in 2017-18. The survey reports recruitment difficulty in almost all regions across the country, the majority of industries and all occupation groups. These challenges are exacerbated by Australian labor force immobility. "Australian families overwhelmingly are not interested in leaving their hometowns and moving to where greater job opportunities exist," stated Olga Fadeeva, general manager of human resources at Toyota Material Handling Australia Proprietary Ltd. in Sydney. "With a high cost of child care and a recent phenomenon of dual-career families, the reliance on a local family support network has become a lot stronger over recent years. It locks families into their current locations even further, which prevents domestic labor mobility. The overwhelming rise of the cost of real estate in places like Sydney and Melbourne has further contributed to an inability of businesses to convince workers to relocate for jobs." Employer-Sponsored Visas To meet this staffing challenge, Australian employers have increasingly looked for labor outside the country. According to Maya Atrakchi, knowledge management attorney for Jackson Lewis' International Employment Issues Practice Group in New York City, "In order to legally work in Australia, a foreign employee must have a permanent or long-stay visa, the most common being the TSS [temporary skill shortage] 482 visa. The TSS imposes onerous requirements, including that visa applicants have at minimum two years' work experience and that the employer sponsor pass a nondiscriminatory workforce test to verify that it is not actively discriminating against available Australian citizens. This area of law is complex and subject to regular change." According to Fadeeva, Australian employers that wish to sponsor skilled labor from overseas under the TSS visa provision quickly discover that not every occupation qualifies. Those that fit within the visa include technicians and trade workers, engineers, medical professionals, and senior business administrators. The cost of employer sponsorship is expensive: A typical four-year term would cost an organization at least AU$10,000 (just over US$7,000) each. Nevertheless, Fadeeva stated, "The attractiveness of sponsorship is still strong. Beyond just an ability to recruit staff with required skills and knowledge, it brings loyalty and commitment as well as good retention of staff for the duration of the sponsorship." Fadeeva noted that obvious sources of trade-qualified labor from English-speaking countries exist and added, "With all the uncertainties of Brexit, more and more young qualified people are looking for work opportunities outside of the U.K." Increasingly, the Philippines have provided a valuable labor source for Australian businesses. The responsibility of sponsoring workers doesn't end after the visas are procured and the fees are paid. "It is a matter of making sure that sponsored employees are well-settled and looked after when they arrive," Fadeeva stated. [SHRM members-only toolkit: Introduction to the Global Human Resources Discipline] Attracting Executives Expatriates are proving to be a source of executive talent for Australian businesses, said Kirstin Schneider, a senior HR professional based in Melbourne, Australia. "Expats seeking to return usually do so for family reasons such as caring for aging parents or wanting to reintegrate young families with grandparents and extended family. Typically, they seek to return to the city and suburban areas where they grew up." Other attractions to Australia for expatriates include: Australia's excellent health care system. The beaches and warmer weather. Good schools. Help for some spouses in finding work. Comparative costs of living play strongly into any international mobility negotiation. Depending on the country of origin, Schneider said, "International executives can be pleasantly surprised by the initial remuneration package, only to be concerned later as they learn of the high cost of living in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne." GENEVA, N.Y. The Wagner mens lacrosse team will open Northeast Conference (NEC) play on Saturday when the Seahawks travel to Hobart for a 3 p.m. faceoff against the Statesmen. In Hobart, the Seahawks will be facing a 4-1 team whose lone loss was a 19-16 home decision to fourth-ranked Cornell. Coming off a hard-fought 7-6 overtime loss to Quinnipiac last Saturday, the Green & White enter this weekend's play with a 1-6 record and looking to snap a six-game losing streak. Defensively, the Seahawks are paced by their starting back line of defensemen, sophomore Kyle Stofko (22 ct, 13 gb), along with seniors Kevin Doherty (11 ct, 7 gb), and Connor Davis (5 ct, 10 gb). For Stofko, his 22 caused turnovers in seven games computes to 3.14 per game, a figure which ranks No. 2 nationally. Senior midfielder Riley Owens paces the Seahawks with 24 ground ball, along with 11 caused turnovers which tie Doherty for second on the team. In goal, senior Matt Sefcik owns a goals against average of 10.01 (23 rd in nation), and a save percentage of .529 (29th in nation). Junior Nick Warren is Wagner's primary faceoff specialist, and has gone 68-of-147 (.463) in the X. Offensively, junior attack Dominic Branda leads the way with 16 points (12g, 4a), while a pair of Seahawks are tied for second with 13 points apiece in senior midfielder Spencer Kaufman (8, 5a), and senior attack John Norton (6g, 7a). Checking in with eight points (7g, 1a each) are freshman midfielder Stephen Dwyer and junior attack Nic Ancona. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The recent killing of reputed Gambino boss Francesco (Franky Boy) Cali brought back chilling memories of an old New York, where mob disputes were frequently regulated on the streets. Now, more than 30 years after the last assassination of a boss in the city, Calis murder outside his Hilltop Terrace home Wednesday night could mark the beginning of a new bloodshed, warned Christian Cipollini, organized crime historian and author. This is not common [anymore], Cipollini said. It could be an internal strike or the beginning of a mob war. Retaliation, he said, is very possible. Going by history, this is not gonna be the last one, he said. While the NYPD continues to investigate the motive and has not yet deemed the killing to be mob related, experts say uncertainty in the Mafia on both sides of the Atlantic could have played a role. Though the low-key Cali, 53, was considered an under-the-radar figure compared to previous Gambino boss John Gotti, experts and historians identified him as a global figure and bridge between the American and the Sicilian mobs, and his death could have been used to send either a warning or a humiliating message, Cipollini said. Calis connection between the United States and Sicily finds its roots in his marriage with Rosaria Inzerillo, of the predominant Inzerillo family. The Inzerillos were among the most powerful and wealthy families within the Sicilian Cosa Nostra, explained Maurizio Catino, visiting scholar at the department of sociology at New York University, who has written several books on the American and Sicilian Cosa Nostra. They were an important family in the Sicilian Cosa Nostra," said Catino They were basically aristocrats. This 2006 photos shows Corleone, a small town of approximately 12,000 inhabitants in the province of Palermo in Sicily. It is known primarily as the birthplace of Mafia boss Salvatore Riina and his faction. (FABRIZIO VILLA/AFP/Getty Images)AFP/Getty Images Things rapidly changed in the 80s when Salvatore Riina, the former boss of the Italian mafia, basically declared war on the Inzerillos as he was trying to gain power in Palermo. Riina was so determined to dismantle the family that he once said that nothing shall remain of them, Catino explained. Many Inzerillos decided to flee Sicily and start a new life in America, where they soon started doing business with the Gambino family. Cali was indeed considered the bridge between the two countries. He was the ambassador between the Sicilian and American mafia, Cipollini said. The power balances would get shaken in 2017 when Riina died. Riinas death could have created space for the Inzerillos to come back with the hope to reinstitute the power the family once had, said Catino. Riinas death, however, created a power vacuum in Sicily itself, where not only the Inzerillos might be trying to regain power, but where also the Ndragheta -- the organized crime group from Calabria -- is trying to become the new leader, Catino said. This is why this case is so interesting right now, said Catino. All these dynamics could say a lot about whats going on with the Cosa Nostra in New York and the Cosa Nostra in Sicily. While overseas links could lead to a motive, local developments within the Gambino family could as well, like the recent release of Gene Gotti, brother of the former boss John Gotti. All these things happening at the same time...there is a power vacuum going on, said Cipollini. While no arrests have been made yet, sources tell the Advance Cali shook the shooters hand during their fatal encounter. Its when Cali turned his back that the shooter fired a dozen shots, striking him six times. Both Catino and Cipollini agreed that it is way too early to speculate on whether the killing is an actual mob hit, as it might be something totally unrelated. Catino said informal rules among Mafia members dictate that in order to kill a member you need permission from the boss of another mob family. But this doesnt mean anything because, as they create the rules, they might as well break them, he said. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Cops recovered 98 bags of heroin, along with imitation rifles and pistols in the home of a West Brighton felon, who recently served time for drug possession, authorities allege. Alan Soler, 45, and Jennifer Rinaldi-Soler, 46, were busted Thursday during a raid of their home on the 300 block of Sharon Avenue, said a criminal complaint. Officers found the heroin in the living room, the complaint said. From the bedroom, they seized buprenorphine, along with three imitation rifles and one fake pistol, which were in a closet, said the complaint. The guns mimicked real firearms in their size, description and presentation, the complaint said. Cops also discovered an undisclosed amount of cash, said the complaint. The NYPD touted the arrests on the 120th Precinct Twitter feed. The defendants were charged with multiple counts of felony and misdemeanor criminal possession of a controlled substance. Theyre also accused of unlawful sale, possession or use of an imitation pistol. They were scheduled to be arraigned Friday in Criminal Court. Their lawyers names werent immediately available. Alan Soler has a felony drug conviction on his record. Last July, he was sentenced to a year in jail after previously pleading guilty in state Supreme Court, St. George, to third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance, a felony. On Jan. 19, 2018, Soler was busted in the basement of his home, then on Lafayette Avenue, New Brighton, said authorities. Police seized 277 small packs of heroin, along with drug paraphernalia indicative of heroin and crack cocaine, said court documents. Three children -- ages, 11, 11 and 8 -- were inside the home at the time of the raid, said authorities. Also present was Soler's nephew, Kevin Saunders, then 25, who cops also arrested. Saunders, a New Brighton resident, was a Scout leader to Solers sons. Sources said an overdose probe sparked the raid by the Staten Island Narcotics Heroin Overdose Task Force. Ironically, at the time, a sign in the front yard read, SIHOPE: Staten Island Against Drug Abuse. At the time of his felony plea, Soler also admitted guilt to a misdemeanor drug-possession count, stemming from an arrest on Oct. 20, 2017. Soler received a one-year conditional discharge on the misdemeanor plea. The sentences ran concurrently. Saunders case is still pending in state Supreme Court, St. George. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Police have a suspect in custody in connection with the killing of reputed Gambino mob boss Francesco (Franky Boy) Cali, 53, who was gunned down on Wednesday outside his Hilltop Terrace home, according to law enforcement sources. A white male, 24, who is a Staten Island resident and was apprehended in New Jersey on Saturday morning, is being questioned in the Garden State about the murder, law enforcement sources told the Advance. When he was apprehended, the suspect was in the vicinity of a blue pick-up truck, said police sources. He was reportedly found in Brick, N.J. Detectives are working to match his fingerprints to Calis Cadillac SUV. At this point, the motive is still to be determined. One source told the Advance the killing initially does not appear to be mob related, but that some in the NYPD still believe it may be connected to the Mafia and it was premature to tell at this point. Sources told NBC New York the man in custody is a conspiracy theory type who appears a bit off. One theory being looked at is the individual wanted to date one of the mob boss relatives and Cali turned him down, according to the NBC New York report. Moments before Cali was gunned down in front of his home on Hilltop Terrace, the suspect -- said by witnesses to be driving a blue pick-up truck -- backed into Calis parked vehicle, prompting the victim to exit his residence, according to police brass who held a press conference Thursday at NYPD headquarters. We know that there was a vehicle accident in front of the residence, and we believe the victims vehicle was struck, said NYPD Chief of Detectives Dermot Shea said this week to the Advance. (Cali) exits his house.. whether it was an altercation or a conversation remains to be seen." Calis car rocks significantly from the impact of the other vehicle, Shea said. "So it takes some force to do that. Police said video surveillance of the encounter outside 25 Hilltop Terrace shows the suspect pull out a handgun about a minute into the conversation and fire 12 shots, at least six of the bullets striking Cali, who was pronounced dead at Staten Island University Hospital, Ocean Breeze, authorities said. In trying to elude gunfire he fled to rear area of his personal vehicle, and was trying to get underneath the truck, Shea said. A GLOBAL FIGURE Though the low-key Cali was considered an under-the-radar figure compared to previous Gambino boss John Gotti, experts and historians identified him as a global figure and bridge between the American and the Sicilian mobs Calis connection between the United States and Sicily finds its roots in his marriage with Rosaria Inzerillo, of the predominant Inzerillo family. The Inzerillos were among the most powerful and wealthy families within the Sicilian Cosa Nostra, explained Maurizio Catino, visiting scholar at the department of sociology at New York University, who has written several books on the American and Sicilian Cosa Nostra. They were an important family in the Sicilian Cosa Nostra," said Catino They were basically aristocrats. Things rapidly changed in the 80s when Salvatore Riina, the former boss of the Italian mafia, basically declared war on the Inzerillos as he was trying to gain power in Palermo. Riina was so determined to dismantle the family that he once said that nothing shall remain of them, Catino explained. Many Inzerillos decided to flee Sicily and start a new life in America, where they soon started doing business with the Gambino family. Cali was indeed considered the bridge between the two countries. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Next week, eighth-grade students will finally hear where they will be attending school this fall, according to New York Citys mayor. The admissions letters, which were delayed due to a lawsuit challenging the citys restructuring of the admissions process for specialized high schools, were sent out last year on March 7. "They are going out on Monday and theres a delay specifically because of a legal action that was brought against the Department of Education that we had to address, de Blasio said during his weekly radio appearance on WNYC. The delay in offer letters has added stress to an already tense time, especially for those parents who were required to put down a deposit to ensure a seat for their child at a private or Catholic high school. Rosanna Doherty said she has already paid two deposits totaling $1,000 -- one non-refundable deposit of $350, and a refundable deposit of $650 -- to secure a seat for her son, Thomas, at Xavier High School, a Catholic Jesuit school in Manhattan. Her son, who goes to Bernstein Intermediate School (I.S. 7), Huguenot, is still waiting to learn if he gained admission to Staten Island Technical High School. He knows hes going somewhere, but he would prefer to stay on Staten Island because the commute is less, but he does like the school in Manhattan, said Doherty. To all parents, Im sorry that theres been this delay and I understand because I went through it too with both my kids. But youll start to get your answers in the course of the week and wishing everyone very good luck that they get answers they feel good about, the mayor said. City Schools Chancellor Richard Carranza reiterated the mayors point via Twitter, stating All 8th-graders who applied in Round 1 will get a high school offer this Monday, March 18! The communication will also include news about admission to the citys specialized high schools. NEWS: All 8th graders who applied in Round 1 will get a high school offer this Monday, March 18! This letter will include your offer from the high school application process and your results from the specialized high schools process. Chancellor Richard A. Carranza (@DOEChancellor) March 15, 2019 REASON FOR DELAY The city announced last year an expansion of its Discovery Program -- which aims to increase diversity by offering admission to high-need students who score just below the entrance exam score cutoff if they complete a summer program. The plan aims to have 20 percent of seats at each specialized high school reserved for students in the Discovery Program by 2020. That two-year expansion, which would allow more students in the program to be accepted into specialized high schools, went into effect for the 2019-2020 school year, according to the DOE. But the admissions delays occurred after some parents and community organizations filed suit to halt the changes in the admissions process. Despite the lawsuit, a judge ruled last month that the city could move forward with the changes. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Police are searching for a man who fled the scene of an assault early Saturday morning, according to a spokesman for the Deputy Commissioners Public Information. The incident occurred at 5:50 a.m., at the residence of 122 Roe St., said the NYPD spokesman. There was a large police presence at the scene, according to radio transmissions. The spokesman described the suspect as male, black, wearing a hoodie, and flew in an unknown direction. This is a breaking news story, more information will be updated as it becomes available. 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! Charles Leclerc admits he is hoping to stay at Ferrari for the rest of his F1 career. In just his second year on the grid, the 21-year-old's first race wearing red is this weekend in Melbourne. But although extremely highly rated, the Monaco-born driver accepts that he is currently 'number 2' to Sebastian Vettel. "My job is to turn that hierarchy upside down," Leclerc told Italy's La Gazzetta dello Sport. "It is not easy, but I will try. Seb and I are free to fight in qualifying and obviously I will try to be faster than him. Then, when the time comes, the team will make its decisions." If Leclerc hits his target and becomes the number 1, it is even possible that he will emulate Lewis Hamilton's earlier feat by winning the title in his second season. "In this Ferrari it is possible," Leclerc smiled, but he also said he is not rushing. "To stay at Ferrari for my whole career would be a dream." (GMM) Ren Zhengfei, the billionaire founder of Huawei Technologies, told a Canadian TV channel his daughter won't succeed him but her battle against potential US extradition has brought them closer. Meng Wanzhou -- the Huawei finance chief who's living on bail in Vancouver -- has been a good manager but a leader needs to foresee things 10 or 20 years ahead, Ren said in an interview with CTV News at the Chinese technology giant's Shenzhen headquarters. Huawei's Meng Wanzhou is finance chief but lacks the foresight to run the whole company. her father says. Credit:Canadian Press/AP Meng had in fact been contemplating quitting before her arrest, Ren said, according to a translation the media outlet provided. "She was not happy working here but after being arrested, this matter improved our relationship and now she understands how difficult life can be," he told CTV. A Sydney dentist is wheeled into the operating theatre with local anaesthetic administered on his injured toe when the surgeon, with scalpel in hand, asks: "Am I doing this as a public or private [operation]?" The patient, who had dropped a knife on his toe and was certain he'd selected to be treated privately, asks the difference: "If you're not paying for private, he's doing it," says the surgeon, pointing to his assistant. Such is the pressure being placed on patients to 'go private' for their operations in public hospitals as a means to boost income for the cash-strapped health system. Shadow Health Minister Catherine King has promised action. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen The dentist with the injured toe, who did not wish to be named, was given a letter of apology seen by this publication from the hospital's chief executive confirming his version of events. A maths teacher has calculated that teachers who started in 2013/14 would have earned about $44,000 less than those employed after January 2016, by the time they reached the top of the pay scale. Teachers who started out before the new standards-based pay scale was brought in say they are being paid significantly less compared to those who began teaching in 2016. Thousands of NSW teachers are being paid less than teachers with less experience because of anomalies in a new pay scale. Teachers who entered the profession after a new pay scale was introduced in NSW on 1 January 2016 will take seven years, instead of nine under the old scale, to reach the top level which currently pays $109,427. Teachers have complained they are earning up to $14,000 less than colleagues with fewer years of experience because of changes to the statewide pay scale. A teacher who started in mid-2015 told the Sydney Morning Herald that he is paid $76,031 under the old pay scale. But if he had started six months later, he would be paid $90,236 under the new scale after the equivalent four years of experience and with the same accreditation at proficiency level. "If I'd followed the same career path six months later, I would be on roughly $14,000 more than I am now after working for four years," he said. Another teacher with five years' experience who completed accreditation at proficiency level more than two years ago said she is paid $83,136 under the old scale, which is $10,000 less than a teacher who has three years of experience. By next year, she says she will be paid at the same level as someone with the same accreditation who has two years of experience. A spokesman for the NSW Department of Education said that "while it is possible for a new teacher remunerated under the new structure to reach a higher salary during a shorter period of time, no teacher has suffered a salary decrease". "Due to the concern this has caused teachers who are subject to the transition provisions, the department will ensure this issue is given consideration in the next award negotiations which are due to start in 2019," the spokesman said. Families are dropping out of daycare, women are cutting back on work and children are beginning school before they are ready as a result of high income-earning families losing access to childcare subsidies. The early childhood industry fears children are missing out on vital early education because parents are baulking at the cost. Delphine Aggoune with her partner, Laurent Laberibe, and their children Maryline, Melody and Enzo. Credit:Steven Siewart "In the eastern suburbs and northern beaches of Sydney, and in inner Melbourne, that's the top reason they are leaving childcare unless they are going to school," said Anna Learmonth, chief executive of childcare chain Only About Children. Government statistics from Senate estimates show 14,000 children dropped out of childcare in the year between September 2017 and 2018, an unusually big fall that many blame on cuts to subsidies for non-working parents or high-income families. It's often said that having a lot of enemies must mean you're doing something right. Ben Quilty discovered long ago that the price of fame for an artist is the undying enmity of a large proportion of one's peers. This hasn't put the brakes on his glorious ascent but neither has it left him unscarred. If Quilty is currently one of the annointed saints of contemporary Australian art he's a good match for St. Sebastian, the human target. He now wishes he'd never agreed to pose with the barbed wire crown for that photo in Good Weekend. It was pushing the envelope a little too far. There are probably lots of things he regrets, but this is counterbalanced by a self-confidence and conviction that has made him one of the few living Australian artists whose name rings a bell with the general public. Installation view: Quilty featuring Pancreatitis (Kenny), The Last Supper (Bottom Feeder) and Farewell virginity by Ben Quilty at the Art Gallery of South Australia. Credit:Grant Hancock Quilty's fan club is even stronger among collectors and curators. The survey show, Quilty, has just been launched at the Art Gallery of South Australia, and will travel on to the state galleries of Queensland and NSW. This is a rare honour nowadays, when most retrospectives are single-venue affairs. It's even more remarkable that Quilty is being feted by the AGNSW at the age of 46 when such stalwarts as Charles Blackman or Robert Dickerson both died without a retrospective in their home city. To further complicate matters Quilty is having the show while he is a trustee of the AGNSW, which is a breach of the usual protocols. Negotiations over the next Concorde Agreement look to be heating up. Red Bull's Dr Helmut Marko said the biggest "negative" of the Liberty Media era at present is "the missing regulations" for 2021. "In my opinion, there is too much compromise," he told Der Spiegel. "If you consult all the teams, it will never work. Liberty and the FIA have to sit down, decide and then enforce something. Otherwise it will never work," said Marko. And it seems that Greg Maffei, the chief executive of Liberty Media, is starting to agree. "Chase (Carey) has tried to take a very conciliatory, constructive tone to bring it all forward and we tried not to draw any lines in the sand but we will see, it may yet come to that," he is quoted by Forbes' F1 business journalist Christian Sylt. The FIA is also speeding up. President Jean Todt announced in Melbourne that the proposed 2021 regulations will be presented to the teams during meetings in London on March 26. He is hoping the new rules entice new teams to join the grid. "Of course we would like to have additional manufacturers, just as I would like to have 12 teams," he said. (GMM) Lillian Khallouf hosts intimate fashion soiree in Double Bay Designer Lillian Khallouf held an intimate dinner in the royal suite of the Intercontinental Double Bay on Tuesday to showcase her signature LK collection. Personal shopper to the stars, Gabriel Waller. Credit:Sara Heaven Nagi Sydneys most influential fashionistas enjoyed the quaint get together, including Harpers Bazaar junior fashion editor Carline Tran, Mode Sportifs Deborah Symond ONeil, and personal shopper to the stars Gabriel Waller. Formalities were kept to a minimum as guests were treated to a four-course dinner by Sake restaurant consisting of sashimi platters, glazed toothfish, tajima striploin, and the famous dragon egg dessert. THE WIDOW Kate Beckinsale and Charles Dance are part of a sensational cast for The Widow. Credit:Coco Van Oppens Prime.com.au What does a widow in Wales have to do with child soldiers in Africa? Local boy Matt Le Nevez, it seems, in this international drama that swings effortlessly between the personal and the political, and between remote Wales, the wilds of the Congo, and downtown Rotterdam. The central mystery is this: Will (Le Nevez) is married to Georgia (Kate Beckinsale) when his plane goes down on the way to Kinshasa a plane that's also carrying a controversial politician. That's the first of the links established. But while there's a sensational cast here Alex Kingston, Charles Dance, and Icelandic/American Olafur Darri Olafsson as well as Beckinsale and Le Nevez what really makes this is a script that refuses to explain every little thing. It's not until halfway through the first episode that we even find out why Will was heading to Kinshasa, and then only obliquely. Great writing from Jack and Harry Williams (The Missing) including great structure create a sense that all these disparate elements are linked. We and most of the characters just don't know how yet. In the meantime we spend the whole hour asking ourselves 'what?' And 'why?' interspersed with enough 'ohs!' and 'ahs!' to make the whole thing as satisfying as it is addictive. Natalie Marie's jewellery workshop is one of the few left in Australia, and even rarer because most of its work is done by hand, but she has a problem. The Avalon-based designer, who has a major fan in Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, said it is becoming increasingly challenging to find qualified jewellers to work in her atelier. "It has become more difficult to find qualified jewellers," she says. Something she attributes to an "impatience" in a younger generation less willing to go down the manufacturing route and "start on the bottom rung of the ladder, gaining experience ... [they want to] start a brand now." "There still are some going through the manufacturing path, and we try to snatch up as many as we can," she says. Birth order, according to conventional wisdom, moulds personality: Firstborn children, secure with their place in the family and expected to be the mature ones, grow up to be intellectual, responsible and conformist. Younger siblings work harder to get their parents attention, take more risks and become creative rebels. Thats the central idea in psychologist Frank Sulloways Born to Rebel, an influential book on birth order that burst, like a water balloon lobbed by an attention-seeking third-born, onto the pop psychology scene 20 years ago. It has long been thought that birth order affects the personalities of children. But does it? Credit:iStock Sulloways account of the nuclear family claimed that firstborn children command their parents attention and resources, so later-borns must struggle to carve out their niche. Sibling behaviours then crystallise into adult personalities. I thought - and I still think - its very plausible and intuitive, said Ralph Hertwig, a psychologist at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development in Berlin, who published a study on unequal parental investment with Sulloway in 2002. When the Capital Region Farmers Market began in March 2004 the 850 people who turned up wandered around a shed that still had dirt floors and housed 18 stalls. Today, after 15 years of providing for the Canberra community, the markets can have anywhere between 100 and 125 stallholders and 6000 visitors in winter, jumping to 8000 around Christmas. Ed Wensing has shopped at the Capital Region Farmers Market since it began in 2004. Ed bought a bunch of flowers for his wife on Saturday from Nicola Padovano, 16, from Janima Flowers. Credit:Karleen Minney But in that time the markets have held one thing sacrosanct: it's all about Canberra and our region. Market director John Kenworthy said the markets started as a way for Rotary to raise funds and at a time when supermarkets moved away from smaller producers. The ACT Education Directorate has launched a review costing more than half a million dollars into future student demand, due to Canberra's growing population. The directorate awarded a $531,000 contract to the Australian National University's School of Demography last month to conduct the review over three years. ANU has been paid more than $500,000 to review student demand projections in ACT schools. Credit:Louie Douvis The review would look to completely overhaul the directorate's current projections for future student demand over the next decade for ACT public schools. Contract documents said the directorate's current model was unable to function well enough to adequately plan for future school infrastructure. An independent service supported by the ACT government told the new owner of a heritage-listed Hall property that a pre-1900 stone cottage on the block had no heritage significance before the structure was demolished. Documents released under freedom of information laws have shed light on what authorities last year called "an unfortunate misunderstanding" that resulted in the heritage cottage being destroyed without the ACT Heritage Council's approval. The stone cottage at the rear of 8 Palmer Street in Hall, before it was demolished. The documents show the council approved demolition of the main house on the Palmer Street block known locally as Ottocliffe on April 20, 2016, after the house was found to contain Mr Fluffy loose-fill asbestos. The council's statement of heritage effect approval related only to the main house and made no mention of the stone cottage, which was free of asbestos. One person was taken to hospital in a serious condition and three others were injured after a crash in Florey on Friday evening. Emergency services were called to the two vehicle crash on Southern Cross Drive shortly before 10pm on March 15. ACT Ambulance Service paramedics treated and stabilised three adults and a child at the scene, with one adult female transported to Canberra Hospital in a serious condition after she was extricated from a vehicle by firefighters. It is understood firefighters had to remove the roof of the vehicle to free the woman. The woman was in such a serious condition firefighters drove the ambulance to the Canberra Hospital so the two paramedics could treat the woman. As to voting Liberal, what she said was she had never voted for Abbott. I have voted Liberal at state elections. I know James Griffin, Manly local Liberal member and will vote for him at the coming state election. As to the campaign of slurs against her name, she treats it with more equanimity than most could master. Absolute desperation on their part, she laughs. Tony Abbotts campaign has no substance or solutions, and has only two things hes throwing at me. First trying to paint me as an ALP and GetUp! stooge, which is simply, demonstrably not true. And second, that he is the only one for the Spit tunnel. That is simply not true. I am for the tunnel and want it to be the best tunnel possible. I think this smear and fear they are using actually works for me. As appalling as it is, I think shes right, and I am not the only one. In these parts, seriously, such nasty tactics just dont wash. Marr got it right As ever David Marr nailed it, in his outstanding piece in The Guardian on Wednesday, covering the sentencing of George Arthur Pell. In their rage and confusion, Pells supporters have declared their man a martyr to the mob, a victim of press vendettas, a great priest whose reputation has been sullied beyond repair by the left. But thats not what his fall is about. Somewhere in the past few years, Rome lost the power to protect men like him. This secular country at the far end of the Earth stood up to Rome to hold the first national inquiry in the world into the role of faiths particularly the Catholic faith in a systematic, old and hidden regime of child abuse. Chief Judge Peter Kidd at Melbourne County Court for the sentencing of George Pell. Credit: Bravo, the Australian justice system. And yes, there are still a few hold-out Pell supporters who insist this is a miscarriage of justice. But here is the point. After Judge Kidds reasoned, calm, thorough sentencing, all that is left is a very small puddle. And there will be many more prosecutions to come, globally. The great loss [for the Catholic Church], Marr notes, is immunity from the law. This is happening all over the world. Australia is just a frontrunner. An institution that was once all but untouchable is enduring humiliating days in court ... So many crimes have been committed, so many have been expertly hidden for so long that none of us knows how the world is about to change now the law no longer stops at the doors of the palaces of the church. A bruising encounter You may recall the rant in this space last month about the extraordinary manner in which the NSW Premier and Treasurer treated a journalist from The Newcastle Herald, doing his job, asking hard question. It got much worse last week, with a 73-year-old journalist from BayFM forcibly ejected from the Premiers photo opportunity at the Brunswick Heads Surf Life Saving Club while seeking to ask a hard question of his own. I talked to Jim Beatson and the ejection was so forceful he still has ugly bruises all over his arms. For the record, here is the edited version of one of the two questions he wanted to ask: Premier ... When you are here less than a year ago, you assured me that you did not want to go down in history as someone responsible for the reduction of koalas in NSW ... Yet in north-east NSW, your government has doubled the logging intensity allowed on public lands and zoned 140,000 hectares from Taree to Grafton for clear-felling ... This sounds like destruction of koala habitat. How does this advance your concerns for koalas and indeed your role in history? To me that sounds like a reasonable question, and even allowing for the fact that it was not a formal press conference, to manhandle him out of the room in that manner was disgraceful. Jim Beatson shows damage to his arms caused during an incident with Premier Gladys Berejiklians security staff. Credit:Jim Beatson Tweet of the Week I know a lot of survivors (esp Ballarat crew) follow me on Twitter, so want to say: my admiration for Judge Kidd's thoroughness (& [Waleed] Aly's writing) aside, I remain in awe of your ongoing righteous burning f---ing fury. I am in awe of your strength. You are goddam superheroes. - Tim Minchin, @timminchin, who penned and sang the song Come Home Cardinal Pell, donating proceeds to a fund to send some survivors to Rome to see Pells testimony to the royal commission in person. Quotes of the Week "They are us. The person who has perpetuated this violence against us is not." NZ Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on the victims of the Christchurch massacre. I am the elected deputy prime minister of Australia, so Id have no guilt at all in standing. Former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce. By that reckoning Malcolm Turnbull is still elected prime minister, and Barnabys leader. I understand what it takes to have a successful marriage and to make sure that we work together to build a better Australia. Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack reaches for the long handle to beat back Barnaby Joyces posturings about resuming the Nats leadership. He was referring to the marriage of the Nats and Libs in the Coalition. I think. Now average weekly earning are about $1100 a week. 60 per cent of that is nearly $1000 ... Alan Jones on Sky after dark, as part of his explanation as to why Bill Shortens Living Wage is a bad idea. The policy amounts to racial profiling and is fraught with danger. We call on all major political parties to utterly reject this policy. NSW Jewish Board of Deputies chief executive officer Vic Alhadeff condemning Mark Lathams call to DNA test people claiming Aboriginal ancestry. Almost 128,000 Australians who have been approved for in-home aged care are still waiting for the support they need, with funding taking so long that some people have died before before they receive any money. New government figures show that most people are waiting at least 12 months before they get the level of care they require, and also reveal that the number of older people in the queue has blown out significantly, with 23,000 more people than last year. Almost 128,000 Australians assessed for in-home aged care are still sitting on the waiting list. The ever-growing demand is the latest challenge to the Commonwealths Home Care Package scheme, which provides older people with needs-based subsidies ranging from $8248 to $50,148 a year, to be used on anything from help with showering or cooking, to social outings and medical aids. The taxpayer-funded scheme is designed to ensure more people can remain at home as they get older, thereby delaying or avoiding a move to a nursing home. Sebastian Vettel has denounced Mercedes' pre-season declarations as "bulls**t". Heading into the 2019 season opener, Mercedes gave the strong impression that Ferrari was the favourite. But in Melbourne, Lewis Hamilton is suddenly dominant. "No one really understood what Mercedes was doing in testing, maybe even they didn't," smiled Vettel. Asked if he still has an ace up his sleeve, the German answered: "I am wearing a T-shirt, so you would be able to see it." Having accused Mercedes of winter sandbagging, Vettel also acknowledged that his Ferrari does not feel as good in Melbourne. "I can feel that it is the same car as in testing, but it doesn't do the same thing," he said. An unnamed Mercedes engineer agrees that Ferrari has "a big problem" with the 2019 car so far in Melbourne. "It's like dancing with the wrong shoes," Vettel said on Friday. "You can still dance, but not so well." Meanwhile, Red Bull's Dr Helmut Marko said the Honda-powered team is about half a second behind Mercedes in pace. He said: "Mercedes struggled with the tyres in Barcelona but Ferrari was perfect. Here it is the other way around. "So far there are only three constants," Marko told Speed Week. "We are number 2, McLaren is second to last and Williams is last." Mercedes' Valtteri Bottas is expecting qualifying to tell a different story, though. "I don't think any of the teams have shown their cards," said the Finn. Team boss Toto Wolff agreed: "Nobody has pulled down their pants yet." (GMM) The attack on Christchurch mosques was so shocking that it felt as raw as if it happened in Australia, said Muslim leaders on Saturday. Bilal Rauf, a spokesperson for Australian National Imams Council, called on Australians to stand with Muslims. Later Samier Dandan, the president of the Lebanese Muslim Association, urged the public to reject hatred and Islamophobia. New Zealand prayers at the Lakemba Mosque on Saturday after the terrorist attack in New Zealand. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer Mr Rauf also condemned comments by Senator Fraser Anning, who has blamed the attack on increased immigration, as "offensive", "reprehensible" and fanning the waves of hatred. "They may have well been an extract from the [manifesto by the ] perpetrator of these heinous crimes and act of terrorism," Mr Rauf said of Senator Anning's comments. Tarrant attended Grafton High School where he obtained qualifications in fitness. A past teacher told the ABC that he was far from being a model pupil. The fitness enthusiasm continued after school and he worked as a personal trainer. Tracey Gray, owner of the Big River Gym in Grafton said he had worked there about five years ago. She said: "He's worked in the fitness industry where it is about helping people, he left here to go travelling overseas in Asia and Europe." Accused gunman Brenton Tarrant appears before the court in Christchurch. Credit:AAP His father, Rodney, who worked for the James Hardie group, died aged 49 in April 2010 of cancer, believed to be asbestosis. The funeral brought his son briefly back home from his travels. But to all intents, he seemed to have settled into his new life in New Zealand. In May 2013, he tweeted: "Black Sabbath was fantastic, Ozzie must have had a kilo of coke as he was leaping his decrepit ass 3 ft off the stage, sung like a canary though." He talked also of going to see the band Tool. He'd been south and visited the snow, hot springs and had become a "wine, mead and cider aficionado" and had tried to spot whales. By November 2017 he had obtained a firearms licence and, according to New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern, began accumulating firearms the following month. He wasn't shy about his enthusiasm for weaponry and practised shooting at the South Otago rifle club, about 50 kilometres south of Dunedin where he had settled. At the Bruce Rifle Club, near Milton, vice-president Scott Williams confirmed Tarrant was a member and that the club was assisting police. From what he could remember, Tarrant used an AR-15 and hunting rifle while practising at the range. Anyone with a standard firearm licence could own an AR-15, but there were limits on the way they could be configured, he said. Tarrant seemed "as normal as anyone else'' and had "certainly'' never mentioned anything about his beliefs about Muslims. "I think we're feeling a bit stunned and shocked and a bit betrayed perhaps, that we've had this person in our club who has ended up doing these horrible things," Mr Williams said. Last year in October he posted on Facebook while travelling in Pakistan. "...[A]n incredible place filled with the most earnest, kind-hearted and hospitable people in the world." It has also emerged that Bulgarian officials are investigating a trip made by Tarrant to eastern Europe four months ago. Loading Prosecutor-General Sotir Tsatsarov has spoken after a special meeting of security, intelligence and law enforcement chiefs called in Sofia by Prime Minister Boiko Borissov. Sources in Bulgaria said that while watching the dramatic coverage they noticed Cyrillic script and eastern European inscriptions on the automatic rifle magazines found at the shooting scenes. They included the names of famous battles and historical figures who fought against Ottoman rule. Authorities have confirmed that victims with Turkish heritage were among the 50 killed in Friday's massacre. Tsatsarov told Bulgarian media in Sofia that Tarrant had been in Bulgaria between November 9 and 15 last year, after arriving on a flight from Dubai. He had hired a car and travelled on a route from Sofia via Pleven, Gabrovo, Bachovo, Kazanluk, Blagoevgrad and Pernik, including other places in Bulgaria, the Sofia Globe reports. "From Bulgaria, he had flown to Bucharest, from where he rented a car and went on to Hungary." A makeshift memorial near the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand. Credit:AP Ardern confirmed that Tarrant had travelled around the world with "sporadic periods of time spent in New Zealand". Grafton, as well as police, is looking for explanations. One relative said family members were "shocked" at hearing of the city's connection to the atrocity. Religious leaders and people of varying faiths have united at a Perth church to condemn the terror attack in New Zealand on Friday in a show of solidarity with the families of those killed and injured. Members from Perth Muslim and Christian communities gathered at Uniting Church in the city on Saturday in the wake of the Christchurch massacre in which 49 people were killed and 90 injured. West Australians pay tribute to the lives lost and those injured in the New Zealand terror attack. Credit:Lauren Pilat The vigil at the William Street church drew many West Australians including the state's Governor Kim Beazley, who joined community members in lighting a candle to mark the lives lost. Following the first court appearance of accused Australian gunman Brenton Tarrant over the attack, Mr Beazley said what happened in Christchurch was a crime of pure evil. The Coalition is spending about 40 per cent of its $28 billion campaign war chest on health and education, as it fights for an historic 12 years in power in NSW. As the campaign enters its final week in what is expected to be one of the tightest NSW election contests in decades, Premier Gladys Berejiklian is ramping up her pitch to voters that they can "have it all" due to her government's economic management. Premier Gladys Berejiklian has committed $11 billion to health and education. Credit:Janie Barrett Ms Berejiklian has so far pledged $11 billion of funding to the state's schools and hospitals. The $28 billion war chest includes recurrent funding for big-ticket items such as $2.8 billion to employ 5000 extra nurses and midwives and $2 billion to hire an additional 4600 teachers. At least two thirds of the cash splash is capital spending on new projects such as a $1.3 billion redevelopment of Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital, and $2 billion for a north-south rail link to Western Sydney Airport. Donations are a bigger influence on Australian politics than polls and the major parties have a history of ignoring mainstream voter opinion, social researcher Rebecca Huntley says. Dr Huntleys forthcoming Quarterly Essay, Australia Fair, argues that polls are often used as a short-term weapon by political rivals but do not truly influence policy and politics. If only research was as influential as donations! she told The Sun-Herald. Social researcher Rebecca Huntley has argued the centre of Australian public opinion is progressive in a Quarterly Essay to be published on March 18. Credit:Louise Kennerley "It doesn't matter how many times you show a political party that not only your constituents believe something but the swinging voters do too, the ideology of the party, who is in the parliament and more importantly who pays money to political parties overwhelms what the information might be telling them. I just cant see how those two [parties] are going to get on, says McGirr. Labor and the Coalition are refusing to speculate on the prospect of a minority government, though the crossbenchers are alive to the situation. The Greens have already declared they would not support the Coalition in a hung parliament. We dont believe the environment or the state can survive another four years of Coalition government, says the Greens MP for Balmain, Jamie Parker. The Greens would be open to negotiating with Labor, he says, noting that in the ACT a Greens MP holds a ministerial portfolio in a Labor government. Robert Borsak, the Shooters leader, says his party is open to talks with either party. A reform charter Major party politicians view minority governments with horror and warn voters of the instability and chaos that they say they foster. But Professor Rodney Smith of the University of Sydney, and author of the book Against The Machine about the impact of minor parties and independents in NSW, says minority government can also lead to improved legislation and significant systemic reform. Governments with their executive power clipped can be forced to behave more transparently, and to reform rules and regulations to improve democracy. In 1991 the Coalition under Nick Greiner formed a minority government with the support of another three independents: John Hatton, Clover Moore and Peter Macdonald. Independents Peter Macdonald, Clover Moore and John Hatton in 1992. Credit:Robert Pearce These three were reformists who had already been influenced by Ted Mack, a scourge of the major parties who served at all levels of Australian government before his retirement. Macks first act when becoming mayor of North Sydney years earlier had been to sell his offices Mercedes-Benz to help pay for community buses. Loading The independents agreed to provide stability to the government in return for its acceptance of a comprehensive charter of reforms that still helps shape NSW governance. They included the adoption of fixed four-year terms, improved freedom of information laws and increased scrutiny of landmark legislation. Writing in in the Herald on Saturday, David Clune, a former historian for the NSW Parliament, noted that the charter allowed the government to legislate as it saw fit, but that it had to accept debate, negotiation and compromise. The government had a secure hold on power barring extraordinary circumstances. It could still administer the state and implement policy. What changed was that the executive was responsible to Parliament in reality as well as theory. Following the example of the 91 reformists, the three independents - Greenwich, McGirr, and Piper - have already sent a similar document to Labor leader Michael Daley and Premier Gladys Berejiklian. Its goals include improving the conduct of question time, modernising parliamentary voting procedures and increasing the opportunities for non-government MPs to conduct parliamentary business. In a second letter to both leaders they have proposed that a future NSW government should create a "Coal Communities Transition Plan" that would assist communities dependent on coal to move into a renewable economy and secure new jobs in renewables for NSW. Greenwich, who won his seat with the endorsement of Moore after she left state parliament, says the three members did refer back to the 1991 charter in drafting the document, and that he has discussed it with Moore. Those reforms were crucial but they were a generation ago. Now is the time for the next phase, he says. Piper says the document should not be seen as a list of demands but as reasonable proposals that he hoped any incoming government would be prepared to discuss in good faith. His view is that in the event the independents were called on to help a major party form government they should provide consistency and stability. A minority should not try to govern the majority, its not good for the state. Members of the both the Greens and the Shooters say they support the reform proposals. Loading But on top of parliamentary reforms, any party seeking the support of the crossbenchers can expect to confront a wish list. Piper wants to see spending on public transport and health in his seat. Greenwich is concerned with climate change action and the support of civil rights, as do the Greens. Alongside the Greens' environmental policies, the party has also called for significant reforms to poker machine regulations in the state. The possibility of a Labor minority government supported by the Greens appears to have prompted concern in the Australian Hotels Association, an industry lobbyist. This week the Herald reported that the AHA had sponsored a survey in seats targeted by the Greens that one respondent said appeared to cast the party as a sexist, racist, and extreme left-wing party. Borsak insists the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party has no interest in seeing strict gun laws relaxed. This idea we want kids with machine guns is just nonsense, scare tactics, he says. He says the Shooters would insist upon a package to revive the greyhound racing industry and a royal commission in the Murray-Darling Basin Plan. After bruising preliminary talks about preferences with One Nation, Borsak says he won't have anything to do with Latham. Loading For his part, Latham is preparing for his likely election with the same combative attitude he has long taken to public life. Too many people get elected to the upper house and doze off for eight years, he says. Im going to ring a bell and wake them up. Latham says he was moved to return to public life by what he sees as a splintering of traditional conservatism. He sees parties like One Nation standing up for Western civilisation and its values while other parties on the centre-right and centre-left collapse into moral relativism and what he calls "post-modern fluidity". He believes the education system in NSW has been corrupted by the far left and is particularly concerned that the Safe Schools anti-bullying program is a "neo-Marxist" effort to distress students by having them question their gender identity in order to shape them into social change activists. The Lakemba Mosque during Prime Minister Scott Morrison's visit on Saturday. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer We are here to show solidarity that collectively together we aim to stand up any time to Islamophobia or discrimination or extremism that affect the social fabric of what we hold dear to our hearts, Mr Dandan said. Opposition Leader Bill Shorten warned against the threat from right-wing extremism during a visit to the Islamic Centre of Victoria, where he expressed solidarity with Australian Muslims. We love this country, and weve got to make sure that we work together to stamp out the extremists, be they of the left or the right, Mr Shorten said. Enough is enough, and weve got to work together much more than we currently are. There should be no tolerance in Australia for right wing extremist hate speech because, as weve seen tragically yesterday, we cant guarantee where it ends, but sometimes we can guess. Mr Morrison denied there was any government complacency about right-wing terrorism or the vilification of Muslim Australians, saying he had always denounced extremism and violence. Ill call out extremism every time and Ill also call out its source every time, because I think thats important for all of us that we reject this extremism in all its forms, he said. In this case, its form was right-wing extremism. Theres a debate about whether it was white supremacism or white power but its all ugly, and its all abhorrent, and it has no place in mainstream Australia. In a significant debate on the scale of the danger, US President Donald Trump responded to the New Zealand tragedy by saying white nationalism came from a small group of people and was not a rising threat. When New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was asked on Saturday morning whether she agreed with Mr Trump, she said: No. Loading The Australian Security Intelligence Organisations last report to Parliament said it and other agencies had disrupted 14 major attacks since 2014, all but one of them related to Islamist extremism. The remaining case was a right-wing extremist charged with terrorism offences. Mr Morrison said right-wing extremists were not new and were already on the radar of the authorities. I can assure people that we do maintain an operational capability in this area, he said. It put us in a position to better respond yesterday to any possible threats here in Australia. There are many forms of extremism in Australia and this is regrettably one of them. Mr Morrison praised state and territory police for helping to secure places of worship and key locations considered vulnerable when crowded. The Prime Minister and Opposition Leader have both spoken to Ms Ardern to express Australian sympathy for victims and their families, while Mr Morrison has also exchanged text messages with Indonesian president Joko Widodo and spoken to Muslim community leaders. Theyve been very emotional conversations for all of us but theres a very purposeful element to it as well, and that is to ensure that they are getting all the support they need, Mr Morrison said of his talks with the Muslim community. Its important that I can meet them privately and I can give them that support. Loading My first expressions were just one of a mate to them, just being there to support them and express my condolences. Senator Faruqi named One Nations Pauline Hanson, Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton and Queensland Nationals MP George Christensen as some of the politicians who had spread division, but Mr Dutton responded vigorously to that claim. Mr Dutton called Senator Faruqi a sick individual for making a political opportunity out of the Christchurch massacre. Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Labor leader Bill Shorten have urged Australians to stand up to hatred and intolerance, warning a terrorist attack against New Zealand is an attack against us all as the region grapples with the worst mass murder in its modern history. Mr Morrison and Mr Shorten both visited Islamic centres in Sydney and Melbourne on Saturday, as the community comes to terms with the loss of 50 people in a massacre during Friday prayers at two Christchurch mosques. Prime Minister Scott Morrison visits the Lakemba Mosque Credit:Dominic Lorrimer "From all communities, who love peace, who love the freedoms that we have in Australia and in New Zealand, this is what is under attack," said Mr Morrison in Lakemba in Sydney's south-west on Saturday. "We have spoken about real enemy being hatred and intolerance. This is the root of all extremism." I begin this column by apologising for taking up this space, and by acknowledging that in doing so, I have displaced others from it, and by others, I mean men. I think. Im not sure. Ever since Prime Minister Scott Morrison told an International Womens Day breakfast last week that we want to see women rise, but we dont want to see women rise only on the basis of others doing worse, I have been confused about the physics of equality. Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Julie Bishop during the launch of International Women's Day 2019. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen The way Morrison described it, equality sounds like Archimedes bath. Once women hop in, a lot of water will get spilled over the edge, and who will clean up that mess? On the first day of Queenslands 2017 election campaign, Liberal National Party leader Tim Nicholls was on a bus, on a highway, headed for the Lockyer Valley. Wary any stuff-up could derail the final weeks of the LNP's election pitch, staff panicked when the vehicle slowed and stopped in the middle of the road. Shit, Nicholls recalls thinking. We aren't going to fit under the bloody bridge. Gerard Benedet, national director of Advance Australia. Credit:Chris Hopkins Enter Gerard Benedet, the man now heading up the new conservative activist group Advance Australia, which has raised $395,000 and amassed 27,500 members in under four months and hopes to become a long-term answer to progressive campaigner GetUp! Ms Arderns office said it was among dozens to receive a copy of his "manifesto" minutes before the attack on two mosques. A spokesman from Ms Arderns office confirmed the document was sent to a generic address not checked by Ms Ardern herself, as part of a bulk email that also went a number of senior New Zealand political figures and large number of domestic and international media groups. Multiple graves being dug at the Memorial Park Cemetery. Credit:Jason South The message, received less than 10 minutes before the attack on Friday, did not set out what was about to happen, he said. "There was no opportunity to stop it." The document was immediately sent to security and police. At a press conference on Sunday morning, Commissioner Bush revealed that ''by the time we were advised of that email, the attack had taken place.'' NZ Police Commissioner Mike Bush updated the death toll to 50 on Sunday morning. Credit:AAP Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Sunday that he had "no interest" in Tarrant's manifesto. "His manifesto is a weak manifesto of hate that has no place in our country or any other country." On nobodys radar Ms Ardern has demanded answers from Australian and New Zealand police as to how Tarrant avoided the watch lists of both countries. Tarrant live-streamed his alleged attacks in social media posts that contained various references popular with online white supremacist groups, prompting Mr Morrison to seek assurances from the social media companies that "this tool cannot be used by terrorists". Tarrant made a hand gesture associated with white nationalism during his court appearance. Ms Ardern said he was not being monitored by either New Zealand or Australian authorities in the lead-up to the most-deadly terrorist attack in New Zealand's history. "We are liaising closely with Australian agencies," she said. "This individual was not on a watch list for either NZ or Australia." New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has demanded answers from Australian and New Zealand police. Credit:Jason South An Australian Federal Police spokeswoman confirmed "the man was not known to police in Australia for violent extremism or serious criminal behaviour". Asked if the former body-builder should have been on a watch list, Ms Ardern said that was the same question she was asking. "This individual should have been someone that the authorities were aware of and were proactively already focused on," she said. "Those are the exact questions that we have asked and that the agencies are working on." Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Tarrant was on "nobody's radar, anywhere". "This is the real challenge when it comes to issues of terrorism. That's why we need to continue to be vigilant in this area. But there are no guarantees and protections. Hatred and intolerance will seek to work its evil wherever it can." Tarrant was immersed in far-right online message boards, posting a manifesto on 8chan before he carried out the attacks, a website that describes itself as the "darkest reaches of the internet". Prime Minister Scott Morrison visits the Lakemba Mosque on Saturday. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer He invested in bitcoin and travelled extensively including to North Korea and Pakistan. Tarrant evaded the notice of both Australian and NZ authorities when he moved to the southern city of Dunedin sometime before planning Friday's attack. "The individual in question was not on a New Zealand watch list, so that should give you an indication of the level of surveillance there," said Ms Ardern. "Any indications, posting communication that should have led to a response from New Zealand agencies, they are exactly the questions that need to be answered." Ms Ardern said NZ authorities "were live" to the growth of violent right-wing extremist groups in NZ and abroad but that had not led to the suspect coming to the awareness of NZ agencies. Mr Morrison said Australia was providing "significant assistance to the police investigation". "This reaches well beyond the borders of both New Zealand and Australia, and we're providing that support." Alleged gunman Brenton Tarrant appears before court in Christchurch. Credit:stuff.co.nz He said the views of white supremacists "were not new" and "sadly had existed in Australia for hundreds of years" with police and intelligence work in the area flying under the radar. "These have always constituted a threat. There has always been an investment to ensure there's a capability to address that element of the terrorist threat in Australia," he said. "It hasn't had a lot of public commentary either in the media or elsewhere but that doesn't mean it doesn't happen." The AFP confirmed the NSW joint Counter-Terrorism Team had begun an Australian-based investigation to assist New Zealand police. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has raised fears the property downturn in Sydney and Melbourne could flow into the broader economy, hitting small businesses that have taken out loans on the value of their family home. The comments, in an interview with The Sunday Age and Sun-Herald in Canberra, a fortnight out from his first budget mark a shift from the top levels of the Morrison government which has prided itself on using a "scalpel" to treat over-heating housing markets but now faces price falls largely beyond its control. "Now the issue is different," said Mr Frydenberg. "People are concerned about the impact of lower prices on the future of the real economy and particularly that spill-over into household consumption and into the ability of small business to grow and expand and invest." Treasurer Josh Frydenberg in his office at Parliament House. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen An analysis of CoreLogic data shows Mr Frydenberg's seat of Kooyong has seen the steepest price falls in Melbourne at 14 per cent since February last year, with Prime Minister Scott Morrison's seat of Cook in Sydney down by 13 per cent. Sydney house prices climbed by 75 per cent between 2011 and the middle of 2017 while in Melbourne they increased by 70 per cent over a similar period. Beijing: Minutes after Chinese Premier Li Keqiang finished speaking, the security scanners barricading entry to the Great Hall of the People were whisked away and the coat racks were dismantled. Lis annual press conference for media on Friday was the final act in the great Chinese spectacle that is the National Peoples Congress, and the army of attendants that had kept this theatre running for 10 days swiftly hit the exits. Around 3000 deputies from across China had earlier spilled out onto Tiananmen Square for selfies in front of fluttering red flags. They had voted to pass the centrepiece legislation to emerge from this years only session of Parliament - a foreign investment law. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang is displayed on a screen during a press conference after the closing session of the National People's Congress in Beijing's Great hall of the People on Friday. Credit:AP If the mood around this years NPC was muted compared to the triumphalism of last years - last year term limits on the president were removed and government restructured to show clear subservience to the Communist Party - it is because the verdict on this new law will ultimately come from outside this hall, and outside China. Much of the material available to the Bloody Sunday Inquiry was not admissible evidence under criminal law, director of prosecutions Stephen Hurron said. In particular, many of the statements made by the soldiers to police, army tribunals and two official inquiries could not be used in a trial, either because of procedural oversights or undertakings that their statements would not be used against them. Those inadmissible statements were the "central plank of evidence" that identified which soldier took which shot - and without them a prosecution was unlikely to succeed, Hurron said. Soldiers take cover behind their armoured cars in Northern Ireland. in January 1972. Credit:PA/AP Also, some soldiers would likely have been able to argue they were acting in self defence. "There has been a level of expectation around the prosecution decisions," Hurron said. "I wish to clearly state that where a decision has been reached not to prosecute, that this in no way diminishes any finding by the Bloody Sunday Inquiry that those killed or injured were not posing a threat to any of the soldiers. "We recognise the deep disappointment felt by many [of the victims families]." There was indeed "terrible disappointment", the families said. But relatives of victims said the victory of the six families whose relatives deaths or injuries would be prosecuted, was "our victory". How it happened By January 1972, after several years of the Troubles, Londonderry was a deeply divided society in a deeply divided country. The British Army had come to the city in mid-1969 to support the police. The provisional and official IRA was, like some on the unionist side, committed to a brutally violent cycle of attacks, provocations and revenge. The nationalists had mostly turned against the soldiers, believing them "agents of an oppressive regime", the inquiry report said. Riots and bombs had left parts of the city in ruins. A large part of the nationalist area was a no go region for police, or even soldiers except in numbers. Civilians, soldiers, policemen and IRA gunmen and bombers had been killed and wounded. In August 1971, the Northern Ireland government banned marches and started interning suspected terrorists without trial. There were allegations, many of them true, that those being interned were being mistreated. A priest holds a white flag as British soldiers shoot at civilians on Bloody Sunday in 1972. And so in January 1972, the Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association decided to defy the ban and hold a civil rights march in Londonderry to protest against internment without trial. Authorities decided they would try to stop the march. The army shouldered the main burden of dealing with it, manning barriers along the march path. The commander of land forces in Northern Ireland ordered Soldier Fs 1st Battalion, The Parachute Regiment, to come in from Belfast to arrest any rioters associated with the march. When the march hit the army barriers the crowd started throwing stones. Soldiers fired rubber bullets. Rioters threw tear gas, soldiers deployed water cannon. Then soldiers and IRA members started firing bullets. Order began to break down on the army side, as commanders began to step over the limits their command had set. Soldiers in armoured cars began chasing fleeing rioters into the "no go" part of the city. One officer, the Inquiry found, "created a situation in which soldiers chased people down in circumstances where it was not possible to distinguish between those who had merely been marching and those who had been rioting." Families hold photographs of the victims of Bloody Sunday and march through the Bogside in Londonderry on Thursday. Credit:PA via AP In Glenfada Park, a residential complex, civilians were trying to hide from soldiers. A group of four soldiers went in and, within seconds, started firing with their high-velocity self-loading rifles. They shot and mortally wounded William McKinney, 26, and Jim Wray, 22. Wray was shot twice, the second time in the back "probably as he lay mortally wounded on the ground", the inquiry found. The soldiers also shot and injured four more people: two teenagers and two adults. These are the deaths and injuries that are now being prosecuted. But the Bloody Sunday Inquiry didnt confine its findings to just those deaths. "We have considered the possibility that one or more of the [total] casualties [on Bloody Sunday] might have occurred from soldiers firing by accident, in the sense of discharging their rifles by mistake and without intending to do so," the report said. "We have found no evidence that suggests to us that this was or might have been the case." None of the dead that day had been armed with a firearm or bomb, the report said. None was posing any threat of causing death or serious injury. Loading In no case did soldiers issue any warning before opening fire. And they found the soldiers had lied afterwards when trying to justify their actions including those involved in the Glenfada Park attack, who said they had identified and shot at people seeking to use bombs or guns. "Despite the contrary evidence given by soldiers, we have concluded that none of them fired in response to attacks or threatened attacks by nail or petrol bombers," the inquiry found. "No-one threw or threatened to throw a nail or petrol bomb at the soldiers on Bloody Sunday. There was some firing by republican paramilitaries (though nothing approaching that claimed by some soldiers) but in our view none of this firing provided any justification for the shooting of the civilian casualties. No soldier of Support Company was injured by gunfire." The judges said they appreciated the soldiers had little time to decide whether someone posed a threat, and "may have to make that decision in a state of tension and fear". They concluded that the "immediate responsibility" for the deaths and injuries on Bloody Sunday "lies with [the soldiers'] unjustifiable firing". Hard won peace: A sign in Derry, Northern Ireland Credit:Nick Miller Last April, when I visited Londonderry (or Derry/Londonderry as non-partisan locals carefully call it), signs of the old conflict were everywhere. Murals of gun-carrying, gas masked fighters adorn the walls of the old IRA district, in the Bogside valley below and behind the old city. Despite 20 years of relative peace following the Good Friday Agreement, anger bubbles below the surface and regularly flares into violence. That month an illegal parade saw petrol bombs and stones thrown at police vehicles, and eight masked men in paramilitary uniforms were arrested. The year before, a viable car bomb was found at the house of an off-duty police officer. And in January this year IRA dissidents were suspected to be behind a car bombing outside a Londonderry courthouse. But there is also a passionate determination on the part of most locals not to let the past rule the present. Our tour guide took us to Free Derry Corner, site of the Battle of Bogside in 1969 and parts of the Bloody Sunday events in '72. "It was a very different city then, the one I grew up in," he said. "Nobody is going to let it go back the dark days of the past." Sinead McLoughlin, head of the Derry Chamber of Commerce, said peace was "hard won" in this city. "We dont have peace, but we are in the process." Elisha McCallion, local MP for Sinn Fein, said the Good Friday Agreement which she feared was "under attack" by Brexit, was the cornerstone of peace. "There are those who want to undermine the agreement," she warned, adding they were a "very small minority". On Thursday, McCallion said it was a day that many never thought they would see. "However the disappointment is evident," she added. "There are many sore hearts today." The Bloody Sunday families came together under heavy skies outside the Museum of Free Derry at Glenfada Park, and hundreds of Derry locals came to walk with them. "I was on the original march and it brings it all back to me again, this whole area, it was horrific," Mary Lou McLaughlin told the Derry Journal. As the news was announced that just one soldier would face charges, there were tears of disappointment. And then they marched on to the Guildhall. The story is not over. The trial will reopen old wounds. Soldier F, now in his 70s, reportedly had a long army career after Bloody Sunday and was promoted several times. Belfast human rights lawyer Michael Finucane told Irish TV he "will be seen as a scapegoat, or a sacrificial lamb, by the British establishment. One person is effectively being made to carry the can for all of the events and I think thats unfortunate." The decision to prosecute even one soldier has infuriated some veterans. Colonel Derek Wilford, 85, told the BBC the investigation was a betrayal. "I was there," he said. "We thought we were under attack and we remain convinced of that." Wilford had been directly criticised by the inquiry. Gavin Williamson, the British defence secretary, angered some victims' relatives by promising "full legal and pastoral support" to Soldier F, including paying all his legal costs. "The welfare of our former service personnel is of the utmost importance," he said. Solicitors for the family of victim William Nash said Williamson may even have jeopardised a fair trial and landed in contempt of court by suggesting the prosecution was unfair. Justice Toohey died in 2015, years too early to see the day this prosecution was launched (or indeed to see last week's High Court decision in Australia, a groundbreaking successor to Mabo that paved the way for billions of dollars in new native title compensation claims). The Iraqi government has started exhuming a mass grave left behind by the Islamic State group in the northwestern Sinjar region in the presence of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Nadia Murad, whose slain relatives are believed to have been buried in the area. The exhumation, which is being carried out with UN support, began on Friday in the village of Kocho. Murad's official website said it marks the first exhumation of a mass grave containing the remains of Yazidis, a religious minority targeted for extermination by the extremists. IS militants rampaged across Sinjar in 2014, killing Yazidi men and abducting thousands of women and children. Many followers of the minority faith are still missing, after women were forced into sexual slavery and boys were indoctrinated in jihadi ideology. "I pay my condolence to the Yazidis and the whole humanity. There is not a single Yazidi family that didn't taste the bitterness of this extermination," said Murad. "They all lost their loved ones, their properties and their dreams, and especially in this village," she said. Murad was one of an estimated 3,000 Yazidi women and girls who were kidnapped and sold into sexual slavery. She was raped, beaten and tortured before she managed to escape after three months in captivity. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says the Australian allegedly responsible for her countrys worst act of terrorism should have been known to authorities as political leaders grapple with the threat of far-right extremism and the racist Internet culture from which the gunman seems to have emerged. Brenton Tarrant, 28, was on Saturday charged with one count of murder, but with 50 dead and 36 in hospital after his semi-automatic attack on two Christchurch mosques, more charges will follow. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern meets with members of the Christchurch Muslim community. Credit:Stuff/David Walker The names of most of the victims are yet to emerge. But what is known of the missing amounts to a heart-wrenching depiction of a community of varied ages and backgrounds, who had made their way to the South Island city from across the world. The missing include three-year-old Mucad Ibrahim, who had gone to the Al Noor mosque with his brother and father; 16-year-old Hamza Mustafa, whose family had arrived in New Zealand from Syria only a few months ago; and Sayyad Milne a 14-year-old with dreams of being an international footballer. The Australian family have expressed sorrow and pain towards the victims of the Christchurch massacre, declaring his violence unrepairable. Grandmother Marie Fitzgerald, 81, told Nine News in Grafton she used to babysit her now 28-year-old grandson and his sister when they were younger and Tarrant was "an ordinary chap" who enjoyed spending time on the computer. Read the full story here "[My mother} is staying as strong as possible." Ali Elmadani has been named as one of the victims on the Christchurch shooting. "My younger brother isn't doing too well with the news." Elmadani and his wife immigrated from the United Arab Emirates in 1998. His daughter said her father had always said to be strong, so that was what she was trying to do. "My Dad always told us to be strong and patient so that's what we are all trying to do. For his sake." Three-year-old boy feared dead The brother of a three-year-old boy feared dead in the Christchurch terror attack says he feels "hatred" for the man allegedly responsible. On Friday, a man entered a mosque in central Christchurch and opened fire on people gathered inside the building. A second shooting happened at a mosque in Linwood. Three-year-old Mucad Ibrahim is missing after the Christchurch shooting. Abdi Ibrahim was at the Deans Avenue mosque with his father and three-year-old brother, Mucad Ibrahim, when the shooting started. He got out of the mosque as fast as he could, while his father pretended he was dead after he was shot, then fled. No one has seen Mucad since the shooting, his brother said. Loading The family had been to Christchurch Hospital and looked through the list of people there. His little brother was nowhere to be seen. "We're most likely thinking he's one of the people who has died at the mosque ... at this stage everyone's saying he's dead. "It's been pretty tough, a lot of people are ringing me asking if you need help. It's been hard at the moment, [we've] never dealt with this." Mucad was "energetic, playful and liked to smile and laugh a lot", Abdi Ibrahim said. He said he felt "hatred" for the alleged shooter, Brenton Tarrant. 'Shock, devastation and horror' Syrian refugee Khaled Mustafa and his family thought they had found a safe haven from death and torture when they arrived in New Zealand only a few months ago. But Mustafa was killed while praying at the Deans Avenue mosque in Christchurch on Friday, Syrian Solidarity New Zealand spokesman Ali Akil said. His son Hamza, who is about 16, is missing, and his son Zaid, who is about 13, is in Christchurch Hospital where he underwent a six-hour operation last night, Akil said. Loading Mustafa's wife and daughter, who were not at the mosque on Friday, were in "total shock, devastation and horror", Akil said. They had "survived atrocities" in their home country and "arrived here in a safe haven only to be killed in the most atrocious way". "They were just looking for a safe place. Unfortunately we can't claim that New Zealand is a safe place anymore." Fears for Cashmere teen Christchurch shooting victim Sayyad Milne, 14, has been described as a good-natured, kind teenager with dreams of being an international footballer The year 10 Cashmere High School student was in the Al Noor mosque, on Deans Avenue, for Friday prayers when the attack started. His family is still waiting for official news. Brydie Henry, Sayyad's half sister, said their father, John Milne, told her late Friday night that Sayyad was last seen "lying on the floor of the bloody mosque, bleeding from his lower body". Sayyad's mother, Noraini, was also in the mosque but managed to escape, Henry said. The teenager has two other siblings, 15-year-old twins Shuayb and Cahaya. Shooting victim Sayyad Milne. His family is still waiting for official news. "They're all at home just waiting. They're just waiting and they don't know what to do," Tauranga-based Henry said. "Their thoughts are it's not good news. They're very worried." Henry, 42, said Sayyad grew up in Corsair Bay, near Lyttelton, where he attended primary school. She described him as an "all-round good guy" a sporty teenager who played football and futsal soccer. "He's a regular, typical, Kiwi kid." Henry said she was "devastated" by the attack and that it happened in New Zealand. Sayyad Milne, 14, was a "a regular, typical, Kiwi kid". "They were good people, just living good lives. It's just awful." Sayyad's sister, Cahaya, said her brother had dreams of becoming an international footballer. He played goalie. He was meant to play in a futsal tournament in Wellington in two weeks, which he was "really looking forward to", she said. "He was a loving and kind brother and will be greatly missed." 'We have to be strong' Aya Al-Umari is clinging to hope that her older brother is still alive. Hussain Al-Umari's family haven't heard from him since a gunman entered the Majid Al-Noor on Deans Ave, Christchurch, shortly after 1.30pm on Friday. Hussain, 35, was a regular at the mosque. Aya, 33, and her parents spent hours at Christchurch Hospital overnight Friday, hoping they would learn he was among the injured. Janna Ezat and Hazim Al-Umari are desperately waiting for news of their son Hussain. Credit:Stuff.co.nz When the names of those being treated there were read out about 3am on Saturday, Hussain's wasn't one of them. His family have registered him as missing. "We are just praying and trying to be patient," Aya said early on Saturday afternoon. "I feel for those who already know the fate of their loved ones. We have to be strong and stay together." Hussain's family moved to New Zealand from the United Arab Emirates 22 years ago. While dozens of people are still missing, the faces of some of the victims from Friday's right-wing terrorist attack in Christchurch have begun to emerge. He had dinner with his parents on Thursday night. On Friday, after the shooting, they searched everywhere for him without luck. His car was not at his house. On Friday night, his parents Janna Ezat, who's renowned as an artist overseas, and Hazim Al-Umari visited the police cordon at the intersection of Deans Ave and Riccarton Rd hoping to find out what had happened to their son. Hussain Al-Umari (left) pictured with his mother Janna Ezat. Hussain is feared dead. Credit:Stuff.co.nz They were comforted by the fact it was a "holy Friday" and if he was dead "he will be safe with God". They said Hussain had worked in the travel industry and had recently lost his job. Haji-Daoud Nabi, a 71-year old man, was one of the 49 killed in the attack. Tragic end in search for father A son's search for his 71-year-old father has ended in tragedy with news he died after a mass shooting in Christchurch. Loading Haji-Daoud Nabi was shot as he tried to shield another person from the gunman at the Deans Ave mosque, his son Omar Nabi said. His father ran the Afghan Association. Speaking outside the High Court in Christchurch on Saturday, where a 28-year-old man charged with murder appeared, Omar Nabi told Stuff: "I got told by my best friend's father to him, that he leaped on somebody else to save their life. "He jumped in the firing line to save somebody else's life and he has passed away." Omar Nabi, who is 43 and lives in Burwood with his parents, said he did not know what had happened to the person his father had tried to save. Asked how he felt about his father's sacrifice, Omar Nabi said: "Your time is up but you're helping someone else to live because they're younger their life has to go on. "I think he ran into that firing order to save somebody. "He normally pushes somebody out of the way if anything [happens] like this 'get away, go' because he's used to Afghanistan. "Just helping people is his main thing. It makes me feel like he wanted other people to live. "To die in the Masjid, to die in the mosque, if something like this happens the golden gates open for you." Omar Nabi said he was "outraged" at what had happened. Haji-Daoud Nabi is one of 49 people killed in the Christchurch attack. Credit:Stuff.co.nz "I honestly thought somebody was carrying a water pistol this is New Zealand, you know or a showing of a pellet gun or something. "We feel safe here because it's multicultural, we're accepted no matter who we are. "There are a lot of other people in this life who just want to live for who they are." He last saw his father at breakfast on Friday morning. Omar Nabi was due to attend the prayers on Friday but was unable to go. Following the shooting he tried calling his father several times but could not get hold of him. About 4.30am on Saturday, he was told his father had not made it out of the mosque alive. Nabi said doctors at Christchurch Hospital told him anyone who was not listed at the hospital was likely still in the mosque. He said he could use a million words to describe his father. Yama Nabi was running late for mosque, where his father Haji-Daoud Nabi died shielding another person from the shooter. Credit:Abigail Dougherty/Stuff "He was a man with a lot of talents ... and wisdom he shared to use as life skills. "He's a very humble man who has helped a lot of people." Omar Nabi said his father would be buried, but he would like to take him back to Afghanistan. Desperate wait for news Two Cashmere High School students, brothers Zaid and Hamza Mustafa, were injured in the shooting and taken to hospital. Amir Yasir saw the shooter leave the Deans Ave mosque and told his father, Muhammad Amin Nasir, to run. They both fled, but Nasir was shot. Surgeons later removed three bullets from his body and were optimistic about his prospects, his son said. Nasir is believed to be the last person shot by the gunman in the Dean Aves area. Syed Jahandad Ali's wife says he's missing after the shooting at the Deans Ave mosque in Christchurch. Amna Ali last spoke to her husband, Syed Jahandad Ali, on Friday morning and has not heard from him since. One of his colleagues told her they had left work at 1pm on Friday to head to the Deans Ave mosque. Zuhair Darwish's brother, Kamel Darwish, attended the mosque during the shooting and is missing. He said he went to the Deans Ave cordon when the incident unfolded and police directed him to Christchurch Hospital, but his brother wasn't there, so he returned to the cordon. One of the pioneers of the Muslim Association of Canterbury is among those feared dead following Friday's terrorist attack. Abdelfattah Qasem, 59, the association's former secretary, has not been seen since a gunman entered the Majid Al-noor on Deans Ave. Qasem, who was born in Palestine, was considered an elder of the Muslim community in Christchurch. He is listed as missing online and Stuff has spoken to people who were in the mosque during the shooting and saw him gravely injured. Muslim Association of Canterbury president Shagaf Khan said on Saturday afternoon that police had yet to provide a list of those whose bodies remained at the mosque. Five Indian nationals are still missing a day after the terror attack, the High Commission of India has confirmed. Paramjeet Singh, second secretary consular and visa at the commission, said two other Indian nationals had been injured and were recovering in hospital. The commission had set up help lines for friends and family of the missing and was providing support to them, Singh said. "I've been receiving a continuous stream of calls from friends and family since yesterday," Singh said. There was no confirmed information that Indian nationals had been killed in the attack, he said. "But as the time passes and we're not able to find our people safe one starts thinking of the worst. "It is tough for the families. We hope they can find their near and dear ones." Red Cross has started a missing persons list. There are dozens of people listed as missing from an array of countries, including India, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Jordan and Pakistan. Yama Nabi was running 10 minutes late to Friday prayers when he neared the mosque and saw that something was wrong. He parked his car nearby, told his six-year-old daughter Zahal to wait and ran. He passed the body of a man in the gutter and then a woman. Another man, screaming, was trying to lift and cradle her, while others sought to pull him back. Given her horrific head wound it was clear that she was dead. Yama Nabi was running late for mosque, where his father Haji-Daoud Nabi died shielding another person from the shooter. Credit:Abigail Dougherty/Stuff Closer still he saw a Somalian man he often saw at the mosque with his young son, a happy mischievous boy he remembers being scolded for playing when he should have been at prayer. The man was leaning against the wall, apparently shot in the leg. He had taken off his jacket to lay it over the body of his boy. Police who had just arrived on the scene barred Nabi from entering the mosque but outside a friend, Ramazan, told him once and then twice more, "your father saved my life. Your father saved my life." Sao Paulo: Brazilian authorities arrested a third suspect linked to a school shooting that left seven people dead, but later allowed him to return home. Sao Paulo's Court of Justice said the teenager was let go after prosecutors took his testimony. Police have not revealed his name. A woman leaves flowers one day after a mass, school shooting outside the Raul Brasil state school in Suzano. Credit:AP The Sao Paulo state prosecutor's office said he could still be taken into custody if new investigations revealed his involvement in the shooting. They previously said he wasn't involved on the day, but was suspected of helping plan the massacre. Five students, a teacher and a school administrator were killed on Wednesday at the Raul Brasil state school in the city of Suzano, on the outskirts of Sao Paulo, Brazil's largest city. One of the shooters also killed his uncle shortly before carrying out the massacre. Georgetown, SC (29440) Today Cloudy with occasional rain showers. High 64F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.. Tonight Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low around 55F. Winds light and variable. Paul M. Sutter is an astrophysicist at The Ohio State University, host of Ask a Spaceman and Space Radio, and author of Your Place in the Universe . Sutter contributed this article to Space.com's Expert Voices: Op-Ed & Insights . We don't understand the concept of time much at all. Everyone experiences time literally every day but rigorous and comprehensive understanding of the topic is lacking. Then again, we do know some things, especially when we look at time through the lens of special and general relativity . Einstein's work taught us many things: that space and time are connected, that you can never travel faster than light, that our universe has a finite age and that different observers experience different lengths of time. All these revelations lead to some interesting questions. It's time (pun intended) for a roundup. Related: General Relativity at 100: Einstein's Famous Theory Has Aged Well How old is the universe? Our universe is 13.77 billion years old, according to our current best estimates, which are very good, thank you very much. But when special relativity is invoked, we also understand that everyone measures time differently, depending on their speed. We, on Earth, whizzing around the sun, with the sun spinning around the Milky Way, and the Milky Way blasting through the intergalactic vacuum, should have a different perspective on the flow of time than someone else on a different planet around a different sun in a different galaxy. That said, how can we possibly pin down a "real" age of the universe? Here's the trick. Yes, according to special relativity, different observers have different measures of time. But our whole entire universe is not fully described by special relativity. The tools that we use to understand matters cosmological are provided by its bigger brother, general relativity. And when we look at the history of the universe from general relativity's viewpoint, we find that the cosmos well, has a history. Our universe expands with time . It was smaller in the past, and it will be bigger in the future. There's a direct connection between a particular moment in time and a particular size of the universe. This allows us to construct what amounts to a universal clock, a timepiece that has been ticking away for over 13 billion years. Yes, the motion of Earth through the universe changes that clock slightly, but with the tools of general relativity, we can essentially subtract that out and work out the "real" age of the universe and so can any other observer in the cosmos (assuming that they've also cracked general relativity, but that's on them) Does light experience time? Moving clocks run slow. The faster you move in space, the slower you move in time. This is one of the most amazing results from Einstein's special relativity theory, and it's one way of visualizing the unique relationship between time and space. This " time dilation " effect is totally unnoticeable at speeds you'll typically encounter (hopefully) in everyday life. It's only once you get up close to the speed of light that time seems to go a little wonky. So, if time slows down for you the faster you get to the speed of light, what about light itself? It's moving at the maximum posted speed limit of the universe. Does light not experience time at all? Related: Einstein's Theory of Relativity Explained (Infographic) Kind of, but also not quite. Our knowledge of the relationship between time and space rests in what's wrapped up in special relativity. And while the theory produces all sorts of crazy results, it's grounded in some very simple ideas, the most important of which is the concept of the universality of physical laws: What goes for one observer, at a fundamental level, goes for all. And one thing we know in physics, via Maxwell's equations, is that the speed of light is constant. Every observer, no matter their speed, will measure the exact same speed for light. So, if we want to apply our knowledge of special relativity to movement at the speed of light , we run into a little sticking point. In order to ask the question, "How does light experience time?" you have to put yourself in a frame of reference that rides along with a beam of light. But in that frame of reference, light would appear to be stationary to you. That's not allowed by our laws of physics. So there is no such frame of reference that rides along with light. And with no frame of reference, special relativity breaks down. And with no special relativity, you have no way of gauging the relationship between space and time. The end result of all this twisting? It's not so much that light doesn't experience time. It's that our very concept of time doesn't even apply to light. Light doesn't even know what time is. Which twin is right? One twin jets off close to the speed of light. The other stays at home. The faster of the pair blasts around the galaxy, having a ball, before returning to the boring ball of Earth. The other does laundry. According to the rocket twin, maybe a few weeks or months elapsed on ship time. A long trip, for sure, but nothing serious. But the ground-bound twin suffered years, even decades, of agonizing solitude. This part's not surprising. Moving clocks run slow and all that. According to the twin left on Earth, the rocket twin moved close to the speed of light and thus had a slower clock. But wait. The twin on the rocket could rightly claim that they were the stationary one, and the whole universe, including the Earth twin, were the ones to move. Relativity is relativity, after all. Nobody's perspective is especially special. So according to that twin, the one on Earth should've barely aged at all. Who wins the age argument? The lonely, unadventurous, Earth-bound twin does, and they do because they didn't turn around. As long as the rocket-loving twin stayed moving in a single direction, their perspectives were exactly symmetric, with each having their own unique perspective that they could rightly call correct. But once that rocket slowed, stopped and reversed, the symmetry broke. Their perspectives were no longer mirrors. The twin on the rocket would see the horrible reality catch up to him in a blink: The Earthbound twin had aged, too much, and there was nothing they could do about it. Rovers, no matter what world they're designed to explore, tend to be designed like little cars, equipped with wheels that spin on fixed axles. But that can leave the vehicles vulnerable to getting stuck, as Spirit infamously did on Mars . That's why engineers are exploring new ways for rovers to move on the moon, Mars or other planetary bodies. One team doing just that is Daniel Goldman's lab at Georgia Tech in Atlanta, which presented recent experiments on robot movement at the March meeting of the American Physical Society in Boston. The researchers are looking for ways to prevent future rovers from meeting the same fate as Opportunity's twin , Spirit , which lost contact with Earth when it became stuck in a sand trap. "You can see that the wheel kept trying to rotate and paddle and sweep, and no matter what it did, it wasn't able to free itself," Siddharth Shrivastava, an undergraduate student at Georgia Tech, said of Spirit's downfall during a news conference held at the meeting. Related: We Explored NASA's Concept Mars Rover, and It Was Out of This World Similar problems may pop up on the moon as well, particularly near the poles, which is where scientists have spotted water ice . That's an appealing target for space travelers looking to harvest drinkable water or rocket fuel on the moon, but dust and rock in the moon's surface at the poles appears to be less consolidated than it is near where the Apollo missions landed. That could mean rovers looking for water could get stuck, just as Spirit did. So, the team tested new gaits for a proposed lunar-resource prospector, including one in which the rover can pick up each leg and swing it forward, like a human step. "When it encounters a risky substrate, it can initiate this walking pattern, in addition to the wheeled motion to get across it, to kind of paddle across it," Shrivastava said. The scientists ran experiments using a mock-up of the rover in a test bed they could tilt, allowing them to analyze all of the factors involved. "In the most trivial case, the rover will roll, it will get stuck, and after it's stuck, it will add this legged motion in addition to the rotational motion of its wheels," Shrivastava said. "This gait works pretty well, and it's independent of how deep the rover is." That said, wheeled rovers aren't going anywhere: The team has found that the combination of spinning wheels and a walking motion is more effective than just walking. At higher inclines, rovers can become unstable and topple over. The team has found that in these cases, too, a combination of walking and spinning can help get a rover moving. That pair of motions causes mounds to form between the rover's front and rear wheels, and those mounds give the front of the rover more traction on the slope, letting it pull itself forward. That's not without a cost, however: The rover is actively changing the environment it's exploring. "Essentially, you're intentionally terraforming in order to locomote," Shrivastava said, "which is quite contrary to what Spirit and previous rovers have done, where they're intentionally trying not to model their terrain." Despite their exotic aspirations, the test rovers practice their moves in tanks of a mundane substitute for lunar or Martian regolith: buckets' worth of poppy seeds. Without bagels involved, poppy seeds are the right size and have an irregular structure that mimics extraterrestrial regolith, the team said. And it's safer than other options, which can get into the air and damage rovers. "These poppy seeds will crush well," Andras Karsai, a doctoral student in the lab, said during the news conference. "Regular sand made of quartz, if that gets stuck between the fine gears of your delicate robot, that can scratch it up and cause damage. However, poppy seeds are much softer they'll just crush down to a little fine powder usually." El Aaiun (Occupied capital of Western Sahara), March 12, 2019 (SPS) - The political prisoners of the Gdeim Izik Group have announced on Monday that they will begin a simultaneous alarming hunger strike in several Moroccan prisons in protest of their continued arbitrary detention and the miserable and inhumane conditions. According to sources close to the families of these prisoners, the hunger strike is the beginning of a series of battles to demand an end to the suffering of their families with the unconditional release of Saharawi prisoners. The jails where Saharawi activists and political prisoners of G. Izik will start their hunger strike, are the central prison of Quneitra, the local prison Tiflitt 2, the local prison Ait Mellul 2 and the local prison of Bouzkarn. Saharawi political prisoners are in several Moroccan prisons, hundreds of kilometers from their homes and their relatives in Western Sahara, serving unjust sentences and prefabricated proofs by the Moroccan occupier from 20 years in prison to life imprisonment. SPS 125/090/TRA HARTFORD Four people died of flu-associated causes last week, according to the Department of Public Health, bringing the total for this flu season to 44. The departments weekly look at the current flu season, which began August 26, was released Thursday. The percentage of statewide emergency room visits attributed to flu and fever decreased from 8.4 percent in the week ending March 2 to 7.8 percent for the week ending March 9, DPH officials said. Influenza activity appears to have peaked but remains elevated nationally and within Connecticut, said DPH officials in the update. Between August 26 and March 9, 2,303 people were admitted to the hospital with confirmed cases of the flu, DPH officials said. A total of 6,595 influenza cases have been reported in Connecticut during the flu season, including 2,408 in New Haven County, 1,357 in Fairfield County, 400 in Litchfield County and 388 in Middlesex County. Of the 44 people that have died from flu-associated causes, 27 were 65 or older, 12 were between 50 and 64 years old, four were between 25 and 49 and one was between 5 and 17. DPH officials noted that those interested can still go get a flu shot. There is still time for you and your family to obtain your flu vaccine and take steps to prevent influenza-related illness and hospitalization, officials said. william.lambert@hearstmediact.com While, organizations, by law, may not ask about an applicants age in an interview, a September 2018 AARP survey found that more than 90 percent of U.S. workers described age discrimination as somewhat or very common in the workplace, and 44 percent of older job applicants said they personally had been asked (illegally) for age-related information from potential employers. In short, age and experience are often perceived as a negative, rather than a positive, by companies. In fact, according to the Equal Employment Opportunities Commssion, age discrimination has consistently been the focus of more than 20 percent of its discrimination cases. So, what does this mean for the older female worker? Related: Ageism Is Hurting Your Tech Company's Hiring More Than You Realize The National Bureau of Economic Research looked at the issue directly. Testing for the prevalence of age discrimination in hiring, it found that that the resumes of older women get far fewer callbacks than both those of older men and younger applicants of either sex. No big surprise there: Plenty of organizations have been perceived to be clearing out older employees. Ohio State University was accused of calling older staff "deadwood." And, in the youth-oriented tech sector, HP has been accused of ageism practices, along with Google and Tinder. Some Facebook ads have not even been shown to older users, implying that ageism is literally baked into its algorithm; a lawsuit accuses Facebook of purposefully using algorithmic tools to feed job ads to younger workers. Sex discrimination isnt new, and neither, of course, is ageism. But, combined, they create the perfect storm for older women unfortunate enough to be looking for work. The new age demographic of the workforce Take a look at the overall data stemming from the population's glut of baby boomers and our healthier lifestyles: The number of Americans aged 65 and older is projected to more than double, from 46 million to over 98 million, by 2060. And every day in the United States, 10,000 people turn 65. For people born today, the likelihood that they will live to triple digits is strong: A child born in 2011 has a one in three chance of living to his or her 100th birthday. And, globally, the number of people aged 60 and older will increase to 2 billion by 2050. In other words, we are living longer; therefore, whether by choice or necessity, we are remaining in the workforce longer, and how we deal with this trend will determine how we ultimately deal with an older workforce. Some companies appear to not be dealing with it well: In a lawsuit last November, Saks Fifth Avenue was accused of age discrimination, when two employees, ages 68 and 70, said their younger counterparts had received help from supervisors. As a result, even though they kept up their sales, the suit says, these employees claimed they were "set up for failure" and unjustly terminated. Related: An Employment Lawyers' Perspective on Age Discrimination in Silicon Valley Women and ageism An old saying holds that, "Men age like a glass of wine, women like a glass of milk." Why is it that as a society we perceive older men as experienced and successful while older women are viewed as a burden or a sector that no longer has a purpose? Heres the double whammy: When women are younger, meaning of child-bearing age, it is assumed that they will take time off to raise a family. Then, when those same women are older, it is assumed that not only did they take time off, but that they therefore have less experience or are less qualified than a man of a similar age. In July 2016, female servers sued the Saks Fifth Avenue restaurants located within the flagship store in New York, claiming women over the age of 40 were unfairly terminated in favor of younger, more attractive male servers. In the lawsuit, the five women plaintiffs claimed they were let go because they were "not attractive enough" and "getting old. Its all about the money. Women live longer than men, so it's fair to argue that they need more income to provide for their retirement. However, women get paid less than men for similar work. A lot of people quote the "80 cents to $1" number which has been the accepted measurement of the gender pay gap for years Then there's the recent study by the Institute for Women's Policy Research, which analyzed a longitudinal dataset showing total earnings over the most recent 15 years for all workers who worked in at least one year. That data, the Institute said, showed that women workers faced an actual wage gap of 51 percent in the 2001-2015 time period. Its research also found the cost of taking time out of the labor force to be exorbitant for women. For those who took just one year off from work, the study said, annual earnings were 39 percent lower than those of women who worked all 15 years between 2001 and 2015. So, what can we do? I believe these issues of ageism and sexism all start with the one question: Who is expected to stay home and raise the children? Heres how we can solve this question in a way that is more favorable to women. We need paid family leave and affordable child care. The same research found that 43 percent of todays women workers had at least one year with no earnings, which was nearly twice the rate of men with that experience. So, the conclusion is that we need to protect womens earning potential when they are out of work because, well, they made a human. We also need to encourage men to take family leave. I was at my companys marketing kick-off recently, and we were talking about maternity leave. I live in Ireland, where we have six months' paid leave (more, if we accept reduced pay). The United States is the only developed country that does not offer any federal paid parental leave! (Only five states and the District of Columbia have it.) American parents rely heavily on the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which allows parents (of either sex) to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave without penalty in pay or position. Often, men dont take advantage of the family leave available to them because they are concerned about how it might impact their career. We need to change that. So, we need to strengthen ageism laws. But one critical issue with really measuring ageism is that qualified candidates dont even get to the interview stage. We need to change what is happening inside organizations. Leaders need to be on board; HR needs to ensure it reviews a balance of resumes when hiring for a new position; and promotions need to reflect the diversity of people in the organization. Finally, we need to train workers better to counteract unconscious age bias. As an executive myself, I find this need particularly crucial. People have unconscious biases about older workers, especially older women. We need to change this and ... Enable people to recognize their prejudices. Develop recruitment programs for older people (afterall, research shows that more diverse groups make better decisions) Adapt cross-generational mentoring, which has been shown to increase retention rates. Recognize the research that shows the value to companies of a more diverse employee profile. As Jo Ann Jenkins, AARP CEO, has said,Studies have shown that the productivity of both older and younger workers is higher in companies that have mixed-age work teams than in companies that do not and that age diversity within a team heightens performance in groups that must undertake complex decision-making tasks. Related: Combating Reverse Ageism as a Young Entrepreneur In short, diversity is key -- for all kinds of groups but especially considering that this is Women's History Month, for women and older women, in particular. Related: Ageism and the Gender Pay Gap: Why Getting Older Can Be Problematic for Women Combating Reverse Ageism as a Young Entrepreneur Ageism Is Hurting Your Tech Company's Hiring More Than You Realize Copyright 2019 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved On Friday, March 15, 2019 some 50 Muslim worshippers were brutally a point-blank range murdered in a mass shooting at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. Twenty others have been injured. They include toddlers and teenagers, mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, grandparents and friends people like you and us. The Interfaith Council of Southwestern Connecticut condemns this hate and atrocity, stands with our Muslim sisters and brothers and sends our solidarity and deepest condolences to our Christchurch, New Zealand, family. We send more than condolences to our communities and our elected officials. We send us all a wake-up call, a call to action prevent gun violence through education, coalition, public awareness, effective law enforcement and sensible legislative change NOW. Get 150 off your holiday using this TUI voucher code 15% off first order over 20 using this ASOS Discount code 5% off rooms with this Travelodge discount code 10 off sitewide orders 45+ with this The Body Shop discount code 50% off pizza when you spend 35 or more online Domino's Pizza A man has been arrested in Greater Manchester following a social media post professing support for the New Zealand mosque attacks. Greater Manchester Police said it became aware of the post and after urgent enquiries arrested a 24-year-old man in Oldham. He was held on suspicion of sending malicious communications. A spokesman for the force said on Saturday evening: This is a very difficult time for people. The events in New Zealand have reverberated around the world. Many people are in deep shock and are worried. New Zealand: Christchurch shootings - In pictures 1 /28 New Zealand: Christchurch shootings - In pictures An armed police officer watches as a man is taken by ambulance staff from a mosque in central Christchurch AP An image taken from the alleged shooter's video AP An emotional man wearing a traditional Maori bone carving necklace speaks on a mobile phone near one of the mosques AP Photo/Mark Baker A forensic official works at the Masjid al Noor mosque after a shooting incident in Christchurch AFP/Getty Images An image grab from TV New Zealand of armed New Zealand special forces arriving outside the mosque following a shooting in Christchurch AFP/Getty Images Armed police officers outside the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch Reuters Grieving members of the public sit on a curb following a shooting resulting in multiple fatalies and injuries at the Masjid Al Noor in Deans Avenue in Christchurch, New Zealand EPA Ambulance staff take a man from outside one of the mosques in central Christchurch AP Police are seen in front of Christchurch Hospital during a lockdown Getty Images A man rests on the ground as he speaks on his mobile phone across the road from one of the mosques AP Armed police patrol outside one of the mosques AP A man makes a phone call next to car with shattered windows near one of the mosques AFP/Getty Images Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaks to media during a press conference at Parliament in Wellington, New Zealand Getty Images An injured person is put into an ambulance following a shooting at the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch Reuters Police keep watch at a park across the road from one of the mosques in central Christchurch, New Zealand AP Armed police push back members of the public following a shooting at the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch Reuters An armed police officer following a shooting at the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch Reuters Police stand outside the Linwood Islamic Centre AP A police officer is seen running after the initial reports that several shots had been fired Reuters Reuters Ambulances race towards one of the mosques AFP/Getty Images Police cordon off Strickland Street where a car bomb was found Getty Images Police Commissioner Mike Bush speaks to media during a press conference at Royal Society Te Aparangi in Wellington Getty Images Police block the road near the Linwood Islamic Centre AP Ambulances and police outside the Masjid Al Noor mosque EPA Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison speaking at Kirribilli House in Sydney, Australia Getty Images A police officer talks on her phone at a roadblock near the Linwood Islamic Centre AP Armed police maintain a presence outside the Masijd Ayesha Mosque in Manurewa, Auckland, as part of the security response Getty Images It is at times like this that, as a community, we stand together. Where the law permits and people cross the line, we will take robust action, which may include arrest and prosecution. P olice are appealing for witnesses after a pedestrian died after being hit by a car in north London. Officers were called to East Finchley, at the junction of High Road and Lincoln Road, just after 6.45pm on Saturday. Paramedics also attended but the pedestrian, a 63-year-old female, was pronounced dead at the scene just after 7.15pm. Her next of kin have been informed. The driver stopped at the scene. There have been no arrests. Detectives are appealing for anyone who witnessed the collision, or who may have captured it on their dashcams, to get in touch. The area would have been busy at the time, the Met said. L ondon wouldn't be the same without its complex and colourful Tube map, but if theres one thing we get excited by, its seeing the famous map re-imagined. Some London Underground enthusiast have spent hours upon hours coming up with alternatives to the familiar map. Other handy versions made by Transport for London show stations with toilets and the best routes for people with claustrophobia. From futuristic maps to inside out re-inventions, the Standard takes a look at some of the best alternative maps designed through the years. Mind the map: Peter Trotman's alternative Tube map / Peter Trotman 'Grid-like' Tube map One designer combined the Tube map with a plan of the Beijing Subway to create a new 'grid-like' city plan. Alastair Carr created the quirky design by taking both maps, aligning Tiananmen Square in the Chinese capital with Trafalgar Square, and assigning names to all the stations based on their new positions in London. Alastair Carr The map, revealed on his blog Not Quite Tangible, positions stations the same distance apart as they would be in Beijing, giving Zone 1 new stations in Mayfair, Kensington Palace and King's Road. As part of the project, the 22-year-old had to create some new stations in far-flung villages on the outskirts of London - such as Cock Clarks (near Chelmsford), Bisley (near Woking) and Harmondsworth (near Heathrow). The map on the left shows Beijing's Metro, with an example of how central London would look on the right (Alastair Carr) 'Fascinating' inside-out Tube map Mr Carr also created an inside-out Tube map which has been described as both fascinating and pointless. The reverse map depicts a world in which Edgware is the epicentre of the capital and Heathrow Airport has hundreds of planes flying every day into the heart of London. Meanwhile, key tourist stations such as Oxford Circus and Leicester Square are consigned to the outskirts. In pictures - reverse Tube map close-up 1 /9 In pictures - reverse Tube map close-up Mapped by Alastair Carr notquitetangible.blogspot.com In the style of Harry Beck and Tfl Mapped by Alastair Carr Mapped by Alastair Carr notquitetangible.blogspot.com In the style of Harry Beck and Tfl Alastair Carr Mapped by Alastair Carr notquitetangible.blogspot.com In the style of Harry Beck and Tfl Mapped by Alastair Carr Mapped by Alastair Carr notquitetangible.blogspot.com In the style of Harry Beck and Tfl Mapped by Alastair Carr Mapped by Alastair Carr notquitetangible.blogspot.com In the style of Harry Beck and Tfl Mapped by Alastair Carr Mapped by Alastair Carr notquitetangible.blogspot.com In the style of Harry Beck and Tfl Mapped by Alastair Carr Mapped by Alastair Carr notquitetangible.blogspot.com In the style of Harry Beck and Tfl Mapped by Alastair Carr Futuristic Tube map The London Underground enthusiast also designed a map that reveals how London's transport network could look in 2040. The map includes eight major changes that have been proposed or are currently being built as part of the ongoing expansion of the rail network. 2040 Tube map: The impressive design shows how much the London Underground transport network may change in the coming years / Alastair Carr It shows how the Underground is likely to evolve dramatically over the coming years, and includes the two major Crossrail developments. Other changes show the Bakerloo line extension to Lewisham, Beckenham Junction and Hayes, and a Northern line route to Battersea. Unofficial Tube map: The design shows how the Underground may look by 2040 / Alastair Carr The 'Walk the Tube' maps Several walking maps of London have been launched by TfL in a bid to get more people using pedestrian routes between stations. In the maps, the number of steps and approximate time it takes to go by foot between stations in Zones 1 to 3 has been added. Some journeys, such as the one between Kings Cross to Highbury and Islington, take upwards of half an hour on foot. Pioneering: The new 'walk the Tube' map / Transport for London Dot-to-dot interactive map British web developer Peter Trotman completely redesigned the Tube map, plotting the various stations into an interactive travel time map that moves around as you use it. The result is an easy-to-use journey planner which will tell you exactly how close each Underground station is to your starting point. The nifty map was written in Javascript and took the designer just over a week to make. Loading.... Simplified Tube map Paris-based architect Jug Cerovic redesigned TfLs current map so that both the Tube and the entire London rail network are more aesthetically pleasing. The map was designed to make reading the inner-city tube lines easier, by using bright colours for the Tube network and lighter ones for the National Rail network. Redesigned Tube map / Jug Cerovic Plus some find the map's curvy lines easier to read than TfL's congested, angular offering. Mr Cerovic started the project back in 2014, producing geographically accurate maps for 12 key cities around the world, from London, Paris and New York to Beijing, Moscow and Tokyo. Map for people with claustrophobia One map created shows sections of the Tube network which are above ground to help people who suffer from claustrophobia and anxiety. The aim is to help commuters who struggle to use the London Underground work out routes they are comfortable with, and avoid long stretches of tunnels. The new map shows which sections of the Tube are underground / TfL The new design shows which stations and sections of the TfL network are below the ground by highlighting them in grey. Toilets of the Underground This useful Tube map could prove vital to commuters who suddenly get the urge to relieve themselves. The official TfL design shows every station on the London Underground with toilet facilities. Map showing toilets on London underground for 2016 / Transport for London It details the stations that have facilities inside and outside the gate line as well as toilets which may charge. It also shows accessible toilets for wheelchair users and which stations have baby changing facilities. Lidl and Waitrose Tube map As well as a few maps listed above, Alastair Carr also created a "Tube map" charting all the branches of Waitrose and Lidl in London. The map appears to show different areas of wealth in the regions served by the two supermarkets. The fictional Tube map shows all the branches of Lidl and Waitrose in London / Alastair Carr Within the supermarket industry, Waitrose is known for catering for the wealthy, while Lidl is a budget store. The 22-year-old economist said he was "struck" that there are no Lidl supermarkets in Zone 1. Busiest times on the Tube A map was designed to help commuters avoid Londons major stations when they are at their busiest. It shows at which times the platforms at the likes of Kings Cross, Victoria, Waterloo, Euston and Oxford Circus are at their most crammed. The map indicates when London's major stations should be avoided / TfL It helpfully indicates during which 15 to 45 minute period the capitals most popular Zone 1 and Zone 2 stations have the most passengers passing through. T he shadow chancellor says MPs will "move heaven and earth" to prevent a no deal Brexit and believes a second referendum could be held in a short period of time. Senior Labour MP John McDonnell believes "quite a number" of MPs would be prepared to back a compromise deal with the guarantee of it being voted on by the public. But he said a hard Brexit was not an option that he felt was feasible for a second referendum vote. Ahead of a speech in Gravesend, Kent, he said Theresa May's underlining of the legal default of the UK leaving without a deal on March 29 had led to this week's rejection. Under pressure on Brexit: Theresa May / AFP/Getty Images He said: "I think that's irritated MPs so much, that's why no-deal was voted out, and I know that was only an advisory motion but I think MPs would move heaven and earth to prevent a no-deal if she tried that again. "People have looked over the edge, they've taken the advice of Theresa May's own Treasury department, they've taken the advice of the Bank of England, every independent assessment of the consequence of no-deal, which is pretty catastrophic for our economy." Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn has championed his party's own plans for a Brexit deal / REUTERS He added his the party was looking to back backbench proposals to give the public a say over a compromise deal agreed by Parliament, though said he had not noticed a "dramatic change" in people's views since the 2016 referendum. He said: "We are working with Peter Kyle and Phil Wilson, they have their amendment, which was about going back to the people with whatever was agreed in parliament, so we've said we would support that if it comes back, and it may well be this week but it will be down to the tactics they want to pursue, because they will only push that when they think they've got a realistic prospect of winning." But he said any final say must be on a "credible deal", adding: "There's no point putting Theresa May's deal or something like that in my view because it's not credible, it's dangerous. "It has to be a credible deal that we think would protect jobs and the economy, and I think that's what a majority of MPs would vote for, I don't think a majority would vote for something that would damage their constituents' livelihoods." Mr McDonnell said he felt a referendum could be achieved in a "relatively curtailed period of time". He also expressed the view that Brussels will not agree to a delay without a realistic plan. T he no-deal Brexit ferry fiasco could cost the taxpayer an extra 28m if there is a delay to Britain leaving the EU, according to reports. The controversial process of establishing contracts for extra services in the event of a hard departure have already seen a row over the collapse of a contract with Seaborne Freight, which had no ferries, and a 33 million out-of-court settlement with Eurotunnel. And there is now the prospect of further expense from the plans put in place by Chris Graylings Department of Transport after MPs voted to instruct Theresa May to seek an extension to Article 50. The cost of a delay to Brexit beyond March 29 could amount to 28 million, the Financial Times reported. Brittany Ferries has contracts worth 46.6 million under the deal and said the terms "included fair and proportionate compensation in a deal scenario, taking account of the significant preparatory work and concomitant costs incurred by Brittany Ferries". The firm has already "incurred a series of direct costs and resource commitments" and "the new schedule cannot now be changed, even as an extension to Article 50 seems likely". Additional staff had been employed while more than 20,000 existing bookings had been changed, the firm noted. A Department for Transport spokesman said: "As the Prime Minister has made clear, the legal default in UK and EU law remains that the UK will leave the EU without a deal unless something else is agreed. "Leaving with a deal is still our priority, but as a responsible Government it is only right that we push on with contingency measures, that will ensure critical goods such as medicines can continue to enter the UK. "The Government has always been clear that any extra capacity that is not used, can be sold back to the market." A National Audit Office memorandum on the contracts also noted the potential problems caused by a delay to Article 50. "If the date of the UK's Exit from the EU changes, and there is still the possibility of a no-deal EU Exit, the Department will need to decide how it wishes to proceed with the contracts," the NAO said in February. "There is no provision for the start date to be delayed, but the Department may seek to negotiate this with the operators." R emain-backing senior Conservative politician Nick Boles has quit his local Conservative Association in the face of efforts to deselect him as the candidate for the next election amid rows over Brexit. The former minister told members of Grantham and Stamford Conservative Association he was resigning "with immediate effect" but will continue to "take the Conservative whip at Westminster if it is offered "on acceptable terms", according to a letter obtained by the BBC. Mr Boles said he was "not willing to do what would be necessary to restore a reasonable working relationship with a group of people whose values and views are so much at odds with my own". In this letter, he said: "A division has opened up between me and members of the association executive", adding: "Many of them are convinced that the Government should take the UK out of the European Union without a deal. "While I have consistently argued that Brexit must be delivered, and have voted for the Prime Minister's deal every time she has brought it to the House of Commons, I am certain that crashing out of the EU without a deal would do great harm to the British people and have done everything in my power to prevent it." Councillor Martin Hill, vice president of the Grantham and Stamford Conservative Association, told members: "As you are all aware, Nick has been at odds with the local party and the Prime Minister for some time, so this announcement does not come as a complete surprise, but the timing does leave at lot to be desired. "I understand that it is Mr Boles' intention to carry on as the MP for Grantham and Stamford until the next general election despite being elected to represent us in Parliament." Chief Whip Julian Smith said Mr Boles "is a valued member of the Conservative Parliamentary party which I hope will continue to benefit from his ideas and drive". A gynaecologist has dispelled the most popular myths surrounding smear tests after it was revealed a third of under 30s avoid screening. Recent data which revealed that the number of women attending screening has fallen to a 20-year low prompted a new campaign by Public Health England. Just one in four eligible women are attending their screenings, but the 'Cervical Screening Saves Lives' campaign will encourage more women to book appointments. Dr Alex Eskander, a practising gynaecologist since 1972, said there are many reasons women are put off attending screenings, including being self-conscious about their bodies and fears of pain. He set up The Gynae Centre, a private clinic in Marylebone, in 1999. He said: Women often avoid smear tests because they are embarrassed about their body shape or the appearance of their vulva. Gynaecologists really dont have an opinion about that, they are just concerned about the womans health - we see lots of different bodies all the time. Often women are worried about having a male gynaecologist, but most of the time smear tests are done by female nurses, and if not they can just ask to see a woman. The brush often causes concern, but it is fairly soft and we dont want to cause pain either. Most women find it is barely uncomfortable. Women are worried about the speculum too, but we try to explain what we are doing and that it will involve slight discomfort. I advise bringing a friend or partner if you are nervous to hold your hand. Reading about the test online can be really helpful, because I think knowledge can make people feel at ease. The PHE campaign, launched earlier this month, found that once they have been screened, the vast majority of women feel positive about the experience, with 87 per cent stating they are glad they went and that they were put at ease by the nurse or doctor doing the test. Around 2,600 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in England each year, with around 690 deaths two a day. It is estimated that if everyone attended screening regularly, 83 per cent of cases could be prevented. Dr Eskander added: Going to screenings is so important, they save 3,000 lives a year. They are 70 per cent accurate, because sometimes we dont pick up enough cells, but that is better than 0 per cent. There are lots of abnormalities in smears, around one in 20, but I tell people not to worry about that. The tests pick up pre-cancer cells years before it develops there is no other test like it and we can get rid of those cells really easily. Treating them is so simple, its just a small spot on the cervix which we need to destroy by burning, removal or freezing. A n Australian politician who was criticised for suggesting Muslim immigration was to blame for the Christchurch terror attacks punched a youth who egged him during a live TV broadcast. The altercation, captured as senator Fraser Anning spoke to the media in Melbourne, led to the pair brawling before being split apart by crowds. As Mr Anning addresses a TV camera, the boy can be seen taking out his mobile phone behind the politician and appears to start filming. He then pulls an egg and cracks it against the back of Mr Anning's head, sending dripping yolk and white over his head. Mr Anning then turns and punches the youth in the face twice before onlookers intervene. Police said the boy was arrested but was released without charge pending further enquires. Fraser Anning pictured in the Australian Senate in 2017 / Getty Images The senator came under fire over tweets on Friday including one that said: "Does anyone still dispute the link between Muslim immigration and violence?" He also said: The real cause of bloodshed on New Zealand streets today is the immigration program that allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place." Many of the tweets were deleted but the sentiment remained in a statement he issued following the mosque massacres. Mr Anning, who has represented Queensland in the Australian Senate since 2017, made the comments shortly after the attacks which have seen at least forty-nine people killed and left dozens wounded. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison condemned Anning for his comments Prime Minister Scott Morrison, called the statement disgusting and said: "I want to absolutely and completely denounce the statements made from Senator Anning." M ammoth five-hour long queues have formed at the Eurostar in Paris due to ongoing issues at border control. Eurostar bosses have warned people not to travel and to expect huge delays if they insist on doing so. A statement from Eurostar said: "The congestions in Paris Gare Du Nord is ongoing and queues are over 5 hours long, we are still advising passengers to not travel unless absolutely necessary as there is a strong possibility we will not be able to get you home tonight." Responding to a complaint about the wait on Twitter, a Eurostar representative wrote: "We are aware of queues and can only apologise as the customs is not under our control as it is run by french douane who are taking industrial action." Gigantic lines of people squeezed into the station, while screens said "departures are very disrupted". One traveller attempting the trip to London, Tom Halverson, told the Standard: "It is a fairly calm atmosphere for the most part. People are just getting restless. Weve been in line almost five hours." Tom Halverson He is on vacation with his family from Arizona. His daughter Ally, who is joined by her brother and mother too for their spring vacation, told the Standard she was getting tired and there were no bathrooms to go to either. She said people were confused and they did not know "when the line will be over and if we'll be able to travel to London tonight". Another, sharing a clip of the bored passengers, wrote: "Line hasn't moved at all in the last 50 minutes, only EU passport holders are moving at all." The issues are linked to industrial action from customs officers aiming to improve their pay and demonstrate the possible chaos at border checks in a "no-deal" scenario. Families could be seen sat on the floor as they attempted to get comfortable for the wait. One person shared an image of a group playing cards on Twitter and wrote: "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade....families and friends making the most of severe delays on Eurostar due to strikes." The Standard has contacted Eurostar for further information. All unions representing customs officers working at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport also called for strikes until April 1. Anne Asoulay-Fravel, a customs official from the French General Confederation of Labour union, previously told FRANCE 24: "This movement is going to last." T he boy who egged far-right Australian senator Fraser Anning has been named online as Will Connolly with Aussies hailing him a "hero". It prompted Will to egg the senator on Saturday as he spoke to reporters during a live TV broadcast in Melbourne. The youth, believed to be 17, has since been nicknamed egg boy. Will Connolly posted a clip saying not to attack politicians as 'you get tackled by 30 bogans' And Will who was punched in the face twice by Mr Anning before being apprehended by a group of men who appeared to be the senators aides later posted a short clip reflecting on the drama. Dont egg politicians, he mused. You get tackled by 30 bogans at the same time: I learnt the hard way. The word bogan is Australian and New Zealand slang for someone who is considered unsophisticated. Fraser Anning gets egged on Saturday The boys actions, for which he was arrested but later released without charge, had people hailing egg boy as a hero. Louie Balka wrote on Twitter: I would like to THANK YOU #Will_Connolly #eggboy for doing what the world would like to do to @fraser_anning and the courage you showed being in the same room with the scum of Society. Another screamed: WILL CONNOLLY A LEGEND OF AUSTRALIA. The two sides reached the deals after the talks between Vietnamese Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Manh Hung and Cambodian Minister of Posts and Telecommunications Tram Iv Tek in Phnom Penh on March 14. During his working visit to Cambodia from March 13-16, Hung informed the Cambodian minister about the development of Vietnams information and communications technology (ICT) sector. According to the Vietnamese minister, Vietnam is focusing on developing logistics to promote e-commerce and telecoms infrastructure as foundations for digital economic development; testing 5G mobile network; developing e-Government and smart cities; monitoring cyberspace and ensuring cyber security for government agencies and key information infrastructure facilities; and developing a digital ecosystem. For his part, Tram Iv Tek said as part of efforts to promote Cambodia's quadrangle development strategy, the government has paid attention to promoting high-speed internet connectivity, developing e-Government from central to grassroots levels and opening postal services to communes. In the recent past, Cambodia's Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications (MPT) has issued several documents and decrees on ICT management, he said, expressing his hope that Vietnam will help his country develop postal services and support Cambodia in building infrastructure to prevent cyber attacks. Following the talks, representatives from the two ministries and enterprises of the two countries signed a cooperation plan between Vietnams Ministry of Information and Communications and the MPT, a deal between Vietnams Information Security Department and Cambodias ICT Department and a pact on digital signatures between Vietnams BKAV Group and the MPT. Under the agreements, the Vietnamese side will enhance postal cooperation with Cambodia by opening post offices at border gates to develop cross-border and express mail delivery services and postal financial services. The two sides will continue negotiations on division of frequency use for new generation broadband mobile communication systems; research and deploy network transfer to keep numbers; and television digitalisation. Vietnam will help Cambodia build a cyber security monitoring centre and provide three full scholarships worth US$27,000 each for Cambodian students to pursue study at the Posts and Telecommunications Institute of Technology. Hung asked the MPT to continue supporting Vietnamese IT enterprises as Viettel, VNPT, FPT and VNPost to invest and do business in Cambodia, especially in IT projects in state and government agencies. Also on March 14, Minister Hung paid a courtesy visit to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. M ourners gathered at vigils across New Zealand after the Christchurch mosque terror attacks in which at least 49 people were killed. In the afflicted city itself, crowds gathered at makeshift memorials lighting candles and laying flowers in tribute to the dead. Those in attendance wept and embraced as they showed their solidarity to those killed and others wounded, some of whom are still fighting for their lives. They gathered as close as they could to the two mosques targeted, unable to reach the buildings due to police cordons surrounding them. Impromptu vigil by Christchurch Boys High School students Crowds congregated at places of worship in Wellington and Auckland, as messages of love and slogans as "we stand with you" were written on signs and tributes. Following the mass shootings the suspected gunman appeared in court on Saturday charged with murder while victims including a four-year-old girl continue to fight for life in hospital. New Zealand: Christchurch shootings - In pictures 1 /28 New Zealand: Christchurch shootings - In pictures An armed police officer watches as a man is taken by ambulance staff from a mosque in central Christchurch AP An image taken from the alleged shooter's video AP An emotional man wearing a traditional Maori bone carving necklace speaks on a mobile phone near one of the mosques AP Photo/Mark Baker A forensic official works at the Masjid al Noor mosque after a shooting incident in Christchurch AFP/Getty Images An image grab from TV New Zealand of armed New Zealand special forces arriving outside the mosque following a shooting in Christchurch AFP/Getty Images Armed police officers outside the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch Reuters Grieving members of the public sit on a curb following a shooting resulting in multiple fatalies and injuries at the Masjid Al Noor in Deans Avenue in Christchurch, New Zealand EPA Ambulance staff take a man from outside one of the mosques in central Christchurch AP Police are seen in front of Christchurch Hospital during a lockdown Getty Images A man rests on the ground as he speaks on his mobile phone across the road from one of the mosques AP Armed police patrol outside one of the mosques AP A man makes a phone call next to car with shattered windows near one of the mosques AFP/Getty Images Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaks to media during a press conference at Parliament in Wellington, New Zealand Getty Images An injured person is put into an ambulance following a shooting at the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch Reuters Police keep watch at a park across the road from one of the mosques in central Christchurch, New Zealand AP Armed police push back members of the public following a shooting at the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch Reuters An armed police officer following a shooting at the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch Reuters Police stand outside the Linwood Islamic Centre AP A police officer is seen running after the initial reports that several shots had been fired Reuters Reuters Ambulances race towards one of the mosques AFP/Getty Images Police cordon off Strickland Street where a car bomb was found Getty Images Police Commissioner Mike Bush speaks to media during a press conference at Royal Society Te Aparangi in Wellington Getty Images Police block the road near the Linwood Islamic Centre AP Ambulances and police outside the Masjid Al Noor mosque EPA Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison speaking at Kirribilli House in Sydney, Australia Getty Images A police officer talks on her phone at a roadblock near the Linwood Islamic Centre AP Armed police maintain a presence outside the Masijd Ayesha Mosque in Manurewa, Auckland, as part of the security response Getty Images Brenton Tarrant, 28, has been served one charge of murder in connection to the mass attacks and further charges are expected to follow. The suspect made a sign which is linked with white supremacists as he stood in the dock / EPA Appearing while shackled and wearing all-white prison clothes he was remanded by the court until April 5. Suspect appears in court over New Zealand mosque shootings As he stood shackled in court, the suspect made a hand gesture with his finger and thumb looped and other fingers pointing out, a sign linked to white supremacy. A total of four people were arrested following the massacre, including Tarrant. One of these was in possession of a firearm but with the intention of assisting police. He was released a short time later. New Zealands crime commissioner Mike Bush said two of those in custody were arrested at a cordon and police were working to establish whether they had had any involvement in the incident. New Zealand's prime minister Jacinda Ardern said the suspect held a Category A gun licence which enabled him to legally obtain semi-automatic weapons she has stated the country's gun laws would change in the wake of the attack. After Fridays atrocity, 40 people remain in hospital and 11 of these are in intensive care. Among those is a four-year-old girl in a critical condition, who has been transferred for care in Auckland. Tributes have been laid out for those affected / EPA The majority of the patients at Christchurchs hospital are male aged 30 to 40, while two of them are boys aged two and 13, said Greg Robertson, chief of surgery at the facility. There were 48 people admitted on Friday and seven have been discharged and one is among the dead. "Twelve operating theatres worked through the night," said Mr Robertson. "Many of those injured will need multiple returns to surgery." A woman lays flowers for the victims / Getty Images More than $3m has been raised to support the families of the victims in fundraisers. A separate appeal on crowdfunding site LaunchGood has raised more than $1.23m. Vigils in memory of New Zealand victims 1 /23 Vigils in memory of New Zealand victims A member of the public places flowers at a makeshift memorial near the Al Noor mosque EPA A woman who lost her husband weeps at the scene REUTERS Members of the public in mourning following the shooting EPA A man and woman in tears as people pay their respects AP People place candles at a flower tribute area at Botanical Gardens in Christchurch, New Zealand REUTERS Mourners pay their respects at a makeshift memorial near the scene of the shooting AP The shooting has been described as a terrorist attack Getty Images Locals lay flowers and condolences at the Huda Mosque in Dunedin, New Zealand Getty Images A woman in mourning at a vigil in Dunedin Getty Images People gather at a memorial to pay tribute to victims of the mosque attacks outside the scene of the shooting REUTERS Mourners pay their respects at a makeshift memorial near the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch AP People deliver flowers in memory of the victims of the shooting REUTERS A sea of flowers at the Masjid Al Noor in Christchurch REUTERS People pay their respects in front of floral tributes for victims of the March 15 mosque attacks AFP/Getty Images A man holds a lit candle while paying his respects to the victims AFP/Getty Images 49 people were shot dead at two mosques during midday prayers on Friday AFP/Getty Images People pay their respects in front of floral tributes for victims AFP/Getty Images One man was arrested and charged with murder REUTERS It was by far the deadliest shooting in modern New Zealand history AFP/Getty Images A man in tears as people pay their respects to the victims outside the mosque AFP/Getty Images A note at the scene reads "we are one, you belong & loved. NZ is not this." AFP/Getty Images A further 48 people were wounded in the attack - seven have so far been discharged AFP/Getty Images Flower tribute and toys are seen outside Masjid Al Noor in Christchurch REUTERS In other signs of support, people gathered in the UK, Australia, France, Canada and other nations across the globe. The Eiffel Tower's lights were turned off in a sign of respect / AFP/Getty Images The lights of Paris' iconic Eiffel Tower were turned off as a sign of respect. A part of Fridays shooting was live-streamed on YouTube in a harrowing 17-minute long broadcast. Survivors spoke of blood covering the mosques, which were full of worshippers for Friday prayers, and sustained gunfire both in and outside the buildings. A number of improvised explosive devices were found on a vehicle after the shootings and were defused by police. Commissioner Bush, who had earlier called the attack a "very well-planned event" said the suspect was not known to police either in New Zealand or Australia. British security sources said there were no apparent UK links to the attack, though patrols have been stepped up around places of worship across the nation and France is among countries doing the same. Officers responded to reports of shots fired in central Christchurch at about 1.40pm local time and urged people in the area to stay indoors, while police urged all mosques across New Zealand to stay closed over the weekend for security reasons. F irefighters had to rescue a mother and child from a burning building in Paris after it was set alight by "ultra violent" Yellow Vest protesters. Some 64 people were arrested by early afternoon as protests turned violent yet again in the French capital. Protesters set a bank on fire, forcing the rescue of a woman and her child. They also began looting shops on the Champs Elysees following clashes with police who fired water cannons at them. Smoke bombs and bricks were launched at police who responded with water cannon fire during the 18th straight weekend of Yellow Vest protests in France. Riot police seen behind a burning barricade / AFP/Getty Images Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said there were 7,000-8,000 demonstrators in Paris on Saturday of which 1,500 were "ultraviolent ones that are there to smash things up." Windows were smashed in the violence / AFP/Getty Images The ugly scenes blighted the streets of Paris as demonstrators clashed with authorities near the picturesque Arc de Triomphe. Protesters later smashed their way into the high-end boutiques on the famous boulevard in the French capital. They had gathered outside branches of Cartier and a Mont Blanc store. A yellow vest protester on the streets of Paris today / AFP/Getty Images A fire was set outside a sandwich store on the Champs-Elysees and a burning vehicle was seen next to luxury boutique Kenzo nearby. Boutiques including luxury brand Lacoste were smashed up, mannequins were thrown out of the broken windows, while a newsagent was set alight. Yellow vests on March 16 - In pictures 1 /21 Yellow vests on March 16 - In pictures A Yellow Vest protester gestures behind flames rising from a barricade AFP/Getty Images A Yellow Vest protester wearing a mask depicting the French President on which is written 'psycho' AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vest protester walk past flames rising from a barricade on the Champs-Elysees in Paris on March 16 AFP/Getty Images A Yellow Vest protester destroys a shop window during clashes with riot police forces AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vest protesters gather near the Arc de Triomphe in Paris AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vest protesters hit by a water cannon during clashes with riot police forces AFP/Getty Images A news stand burns during a yellow vests demonstration on the Champs Elysees AP Protesters next to a burning barricade during a demonstration REUTERS A Yellow Vest protester writes a graffiti on the wooden fence outside of the restaurant "Le Fouquet's" AFP/Getty Images A yellow vest protester walks past a fire on the Champs Elysees avenue AP Yellow Vest protesters look at the destroyed window of a Hugo Boss shop AFP/Getty Images Flames rise from a newsagent set alight by protesters during clashes with riot police AFP/Getty Images French riot police forces stand behind a burning barricade AFP/Getty Images French riot police forces walk past a scooter seen in a broken store window AFP/Getty Images A protester wearing a yellow vest holds a flag during a demonstration by the "yellow vests" movement in Paris, France, March 16, 2019 REUTERS protester wearing a yellow vest attends a demonstration by the "yellow vests" movement REUTERS A protester wearing a yellow vest shouts at police as he attends a demonstration REUTERS A protester wearing a yellow vest holds up a flare during a demonstration by the "yellow vests" movement in Paris, France, March 16, 2019 REUTERS There were chaotic scenes in the French capital REUTERS A man blasted by water from a water cannon in Paris AFP/Getty Images A protester wearing a yellow vest throws a stone AFP/Getty Images An eatery called Fouquet's, which is popular with politicians and celebrities, was also vandalised. A burnt bank agency is pictured at the corner of Rue du Colisee and boulevard Roosevelt, near the Champs-Elysees / AFP/Getty Images Interior Minister Christophe Castaner ordered police to retaliate against "inadmissible" acts, as he condemned those who "call for violence and are here to sow chaos in Paris". Smoke billows from a news agents set alight / AP Numbers had dwindled in the protests, which began in response to a now cancelled fuel tax plan from Emmanuel Macron, and those in the movement hoped today's actions could reignite the fury against the government. By mid-morning 20 people were already arrested as police deployed a heavy presence and shut streets in the capital in a bid to stem violence. Yellow vest protests on February 9 - In pictures 1 /10 Yellow vest protests on February 9 - In pictures Protesters march during a demonstration near the Arc de Triomphe in Paris AFP/Getty Images Protesters face riot police forces during a demonstration near the Arc de Triomphe AFP/Getty Images Protesters wearing a yellow vest throw back tear gas canisters AFP/Getty Images Protesters wearing a yellow vest stand in tear gas smoke near the Eiffel Towe AFP/Getty Images Protesters march during a demonstration in Paris on February 9, 2019 AFP/Getty Images Yellow vest protesters take part in a demonstration to keep pressure on French President Emmanuel Macron's government AP A police officer points a 40-millimetre rubber defensive bullet launcher AFP/Getty Images Protesters wearing a yellow vest (gilet jaune) demonstrate in front of the French Senate on February 9, 2019 AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vest (Gilets Jaunes) protesters march in Bordeaux, southwestern France, on February 9, 2019 AFP/Getty Images Yellow Vests (Gilets Jaunes) protesters march in Paris on February 9 AFP/Getty Images Protesters threw smoke bombs and other objects at officers along the Champs-Elysees and also started pounding on the windows of a police van. This prompted riot police and a water cannon to retreat, with protesters kicking the side of the large truck, before it emerged to unleash bursts from a side street to push back protesters. A burning vehicle was seen in a nearby area where another protest group gathered, wearing the symbolic yellow vests which French motorists must carry in their cars by law. In prior weeks there have been multiple injuries and deaths linked to the action across France, with a man recently having four of his fingers ripped off his hand during violent scenes. The action on Saturday marks the end of a two-month national debate President Macron organised to respond to the protesters' concerns, which centre upon their feelings his policies favour the wealthy. Yellow vest protesters set fire to Paris newsstand Protesters dismissed the debate as empty words and a campaign ploy by President Macron for European Parliament elections in May. 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"Romania is an example, but not this government, not the Socialists here." The socialist government is a failure, and this is not the real image of Romania, the image of Romania is here, in the efficiency, modesty, in the people who work hard, people who have creativity. The Romanian diaspora is an example for Spain, it has helped Spain," said Antonio Lopez Isturiz White at the Summit of EPP local and regional leaders held in Bucharest. He also mentioned that he spoke in an interview about the lack of motorways in Romania. "I said in an interview a few days ago - what an unfortunate situation. In our country [Spain - editor's note], people think that there are too many motorways being built, while here people are protesting because there are no motorways being built, it is ridiculous," said the secretary-general of the EPP. President Klaus Iohannis on Saturday arrived at the Summit of local and regional leaders of the European People's Party (EPP), which takes place at the Romexpo Exhibition Centre, He was welcomed by the PNL (National Liberal party) leader, Ludovic Orban, and the EPP candidate for the office of president of the European Commission, Manfred Weber. Participating in the reunion in Bucharest are more than 150 mayors an dregional leaders from all over Europe, as well as 3,000 elected local representatives from Romania.At the Summit, Manfred Weber is set to present his vision about the future of the European Union and the guidelines of the EPP programme for the European Commission Presidency. Michael Schneider, leader of the EPP group in the European Committee of the Regions, on Saturday said that the development of the Romanian regions and cities, communities improved significantly under the leadership of the National Liberal Party (PNL), but was "stopped by the incompetence of the current Socialist government ". "You can be proud that you have a country with an interesting history, beautiful landscapes, people with a wide heart. Since Romania's accession to the EU in 2007, you, the Romanians, have succeeded in making important progresses in implementing projects funded by the EU. The Romanian regions and cities have improved significantly under your leadership, and also the lives of citizens and communities have greatly improved, but this development was hampered by the incompetence of the current Socialist government, through suffocating bureaucracy and refusal to give more money to the local and regional authorities," said Michael Schneider at the Summit of EPP local and regional leaders in Bucharest. According to him, "a small group of individuals act in their own personal interest to get political and financial gains." "I want to reassure you that the European Union is our common home, and I will remain your most trusted partner." The EU is this partner, and the life of Romanians must be further improved with investments based on the structural funds, agricultural funds and funds for rural development. These investments are not always visible to the citizens, so we need to better communicate what added value the EU brings. (...) The cohesion policy is not a charitable action, it is an investment for all the European, especially those in the Central and Eastern Europe. We need to continue with a strong EU budget after 2020, in order to increase competitiveness and reduce the gap between poorer and richer regions in the EU," said Michael Schneider. He also recommended to the Romanians "not to diminish the role of the Romanian people in the world". "You are the representatives of a proud nation, which can be proud of its past and must have great confidence in its future. Do not lessen the role that you can play in the world. Be modest when it comes of your own persons, but don't be modest when it comes to your nation," the EPP group leader in the Committee of the Regions urged. The summit of the local and regional leaders of the European People's Party, attended by President Klaus Iohannis, started at Romexpo Exhibition Centre on Saturday. According to the PNL (National Liberal Party), more than 150 mayors and regional leaders from Europe, as well as about 3,000 local elected representatives from Romania, participate in the meeting. At the invitation of PNL leader Ludovic Orban, participating in this event will be Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, EPP's candidate for the European Commission presidency, Manfred Weber, EPP Secretary General Antonio Lopez Isturiz White, EPP's group leader in the Committee of the Regions, Michael Schneider, and the EPP campaign manager for the 2019 elections, Dara Murphy.At the meeting in Bucharest, Manfred Weber will present his vision about the future of the European Union and the main lines of the EPP programme for the European Commission presidency.On the same occasion, there will be presented the EPP Regional and Local Manifesto for the European Parliament elections of May 26.The EPP Summit is divided into two debate panels on improving the live standard of local communities, with the following participants: Olgierd Geblewicz (President of Westpomerania Region, Poland), Daniela Cimpean (president of Sibiu County Council), Emil Boc (mayor of Cluj -Napoca), Jelena Drenjanin (representative of the Stockholm region), Yordanka Fandakova (mayor of Sofia), Markku Markkula (president of the Helsinki region), Gheorghe Flutur (president of Suceava County Council / President of the League of Elected Local Representatives of PNL), Ana Lidia Pereira (president of the EPP youth organization).The EPP Summit will end with a joint press conference, held by PNL leader Ludovic Orban, and EPP candidate for the office of president of the European Commission, Manfred Weber. The words Fuck Islam and Rapers, sprayed on the outer walls of a mosque in Mellunmaki on Wednesday and Thursday night last week coinciding with the mass shooting of muslims in New Zealand has caused sorrow, distress and fear among the muslim community in Helsinki. The words Fuck Islam and Rapers, sprayed on the outer walls of a mosque in Mellunmaki on Wednesday and Thursday night last week coinciding with the mass shooting of muslims in New Zealand has caused sorrow, distress and fear among the muslim community in Helsinki. I burst into tears in my car, at work and in the toilet writes one Finnish muslim on her Facebook post, Islamophobia is real. Racism is real. I hold you in the media, politicians and decision makers who feed the bias agains muslims responsible. Hate speech and discrimination must be taken seriously. I want a safe Finland for my daughter. This was not the first time that the walls of this mosque were painted with hate speech; hateful grafiitti has been sprayed on the walls a few times before. The events in New Zealand demonstrate, that there is a short distance from hate speech to hate crimes writes the Finnish Imam of Mellunmaki mosque, I pray to god that we wont have to wash anything worse than paint from our mosques walls." The walls were washed after the Friday prayer with participation of both mosque goers and non-muslims who volunteered to help. HT Photo: Mellunmaki mosque FB Its the massacre heard round the world! Leaders react across the globe! Religious bigotry and hate must be rooted out! Oh wait, not this one. This is just another Muslim massacre of Christian villagers in Nigeria. Ho-hum, nothing to see here folks. Just move along now Ah, heres the right one! In the initial hours following the fatal shooting of several dozen Muslims at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, the verdict was already in: this was a manifestation of white nationalism, which is a kind of white ISIS. The only secondary question left to settle remains: Who bears the most blame, Donald Trump individually, Serbs collectively, or Robert E. Lee posthumously? One thing we will not see is any effort to avoid a backlash from Christchurch. Remember in 2015, After Charlie Hebdo attack in France, backlash against Muslims feared? Well, as one Twitter user notes, you wont see any headlines like After Christchurch attack in New Zealand, backlash against white males feared. Quite to the contrary, backlash against the perceived ideology behind the mosque attack and its presumed toxic racist purveyors will be front and center worldwide. (How soon before its Putins fault?) Nor will we see the killings breezily dismissed as just part and parcel of living in a big city, as Londons mayor Sadiq Khan waved away the threat of terror after a bombing in New York. As pointed out by Srdja Trifkovic (himself a deplorable Serb by birth) in Chronicles magazine (New Zealand Attacks: Repercussions and Perspective, March 15): The developing frenzy of compassion with the victims of Christchurch will result in a number of mathematically predictable consequences: The ruling elites and their media cohorts all over the Western world will have a field day equating violent extremism (which has nothing to do with true Islam, of course) with the neo-nazi, right-wing, white, Christian-inspired racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, and all other traits of the deplorables; and yes, it will be Trumps fault to boot. Various Islamic activist in the West, such as the sharia-promoting CAIR in the US and its fellow-conspirators elsewhere, will clamor for ever more stringent laws criminalizing Islamophobia, effectively defined as any form of meaningful debate of Islam, its scriptural message, historical practice, and current ambitions. Such demands will be promptly translated into legislative proposals by the jihadophile liberal class which will proclaim zero tolerance of Islamophobia as defined by CAIR et al. And, of course, they will demand additional Soviet/Nazi style gun laws. [ ] There will be no attempt to place todays killings in perspective, as is invariably the case after Muslim terrorists strike Western targetsin Nice, Paris, Berlin etc.killing hundreds of people. That perspective should include the fact that some 30 million Muslims reside in the Western world today (many more on their own reckoning), which makes the probability of any one of them falling victim to a deplorable attack in any given year roughly one in ten million The odds of a Christian in a majority-Muslim country being murdered by a Muslimsimply for being what he isapproximately one in 70,000. This means a Christian living in a majority Muslim country is 143 times more likely to be killed by a Muslim for being a Christian than a Muslim is likely to be killed by a non-Muslim in a Western country for being what he is. Despite what by any metric is a gross imbalance between Islamic violence committed against the innocent and violence committed against innocents by Muslims, the Christchurch attack will be a new milestone in Islams empowerment as an aggrieved category, along with other marginalized groups [that] have become victims of white supremacist ideologies in recent years. Victimhood is the ultimate form of empowerment, with CAIR already calling for social media to further muzzle criticism of Islamic intolerance and opposition to jihad terror. Another testament to the power of victimhood was provided recently in Birmingham, England, where angry parental opposition successfully, for now, beat back efforts to institute a program aimed at primary school pupils to promote LGBT equality and challenge homophobia. The parents, citing offense to their religious sensibilities, organized, protested strenuously, and threatened to yank their kids from the school in question. The school shelved the program. Yay! Bravo for the parents! A win for the good guys! Of course its relevant that 98 percent of the families in the school are Muslim. As Rod Dreher comments in The American Conservative: Good for those Muslim parents! They have guts. They have a hell of a lot more courage than many US Christians do. What they are standing up to is not homosexuality, but the states sexual indoctrination of little children. Andrew Moffat, the gay teacher who came up with the program, and who has been teaching it to Muslim students in that school, knows perfectly well what hes doing. The strategy liberals use in cases like this is that they have to make schools safe for kids, and to fight bullying. Its nonsense. What they are doing is trying to sexualize little children, and to destroy the substance of what their religiously and socially conservative parents teach them, and in so doing undermine the authority of the parents. How would such a protest have worked out for any Christian parents with guts? Its no mystery. First, we can be sure theyd have lost. Second, theyd be vilified and likely subjected to reprisals. Birmingham illustrates the rock-paper-scissors nature of intersectionality. On this occasion anti-Islamophobia and the educational establishments dread of being called racist outweighed what in other contexts would be the invincible LGBT++ doubleplusgood ideology. The remnants of a disenfranchised Christian England are literally irrelevant spectators watching a fight between two empowered certified victim groups sparring with each other. As pointed out by Seoulite in TAC, in the victim grievance department Muslims will continue to come out on top, for several reasons. 1. They have the numbers and will steadily keep increasing in relation to the LGBT brigade, especially in particular locales. 2. They can always play the race card, which will always beat the LGBT card. 3. They can always make subtle references to marginalization and radicalization. These are basically threats of blackmail: let us do what we want or we might start blowing ourselves up at pop concerts. Unless the LGBT brigade start actually murdering Muslim children, bombs will always trump twitter criticism. In the intersectional pecking order the trump card is anti-racism (of which Islamophobia is a subset, even though Islam isnt a race). Similarly, anti-racism and migrants rights outweighed feminism and #MeToo, resulting in the dropping of charges against two illegal aliens who repeatedly raped and sodomized a 14-year-old middle school girl in Maryland. Ditto European authorities inaction against migrant abuse of local women in Germany and Sweden and cover-up of Muslim grooming gangs raping girls throughout the United Kingdom. No price in native European womens flesh is too high to pay to signal virtuous rejection of racism and Islamophobia. Thus, while LGBT++ and feminism might yet win an occasional skirmish, in the long run these are nothing more than noxious precipitates of the demoralized, decaying homegrown culture. Once that culture is gone, sexual pathologies will have no ability to sustain themselves against the militant, unapologetic newcomer that, ironically, embodies the very anti-homosexual and misogynistic attitudes they deplore. Thats no reason to celebrate, though. Pick your metaphor: rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic, choosing which sauce you wish to be eaten with, damned if you do, damned if you dont. Its all just sound and fury unless and until we see the (very unlikely) resolve of English (and French, German, Dutch, Swedish, and American, Australian, and New Zealander) parents and the rest of the native population join Poles, Hungarians, Russians, Italians, and other nations still determined to exist on their own historical cultural and moral terms, not the ones allowed them by this or that faction among their gravediggers. As noted by Christine Douglass-Williams of Jihad Watch: At Parkfield Community School in Birmingham, we see a possible collision between two unlikely allies in the West: the socialist Left and Islamic supremacists. Such a collision is inevitable, as neither believes in freedom of belief and thought, or in the freedom of speech. For example, Christians who fully believe in the equality of rights of all people before the law but do not believe in promoting LGBT causes have been mercilessly attacked by LGBT socialist-Left activists for having a difference of faith and opinion, despite supporting the human rights of gays. Yet peculiarly, social justice warriors have given Islamic supremacists a free pass, despite their opposition to gay rights and the equality of rights of all people before the law, and also despite the gay hate-preaching from many mosques and the call for the murder of gays in many Islamic states. Whether in Christchurch or Birmingham, or anywhere else in what until recently were indisputably societies that were ethnically European and spiritually, or at least culturally, Christian, the forces of the rising dictatorship of victims, despite their internecine squabbles, understand all too well who their common enemy is. Whichever faction might have the upper hand at any moment just boils down to scavengers scrapping over the rotting, barely living carcass of a legacy society begging to be put out of its misery. Therell always be an England? Dont count on it. Or a New Zealand or an America, for that matter. When it was reported by John Petley of the Bruges Group that German Chancellor Angela Merkel had, in effect, written the Brexit withdrawal agreement Theresa May has now twice had turned down by her parliament it should have come as no shock to anyone closely following the Brexit drama. Uncorroborated? Sure. Most likely true. Of course. The European Union doesnt want Brexit to happen. And if it were to happen it would only be acceptable to them if it looks like the deal Mrs. May put before the House of Commons twice only to be rebuked by historic margins. This was not a version of Brexit anyone had in mind. Not the softest-minded Labour voter and especially not the sovereignty-minded Leave voter of the Nigel Farage persuasion. It was, in short, a betrayal of all things fundamentally nationalist. For the past week Ive been watching a lot of British Parliament as it debates, and I use that word very loosely, the situation Mrs. May and the MPs themselves have put the country in. And, in a word, it is shameful. May and Merkel both miscalculated terribly on what the British people would accept. Its obvious that both only thought in terms of the kind of political leverage they could bring to bear on the House of Commons which would eventually force them to cave to supposed horror-show of a No-Deal Brexit. Make no mistake, the horror show would mostly fall on Germany whose banking system, already teetering on collapse thanks to other rifts forming within the currency bloc and export-driven economy would suffer from the Brits having more control over the exchange rate of the pound versus the euro. A lower pound would be the first result of a no-deal Brexit. Good for long-suffering British manufacturing and bad for Germanys, since the UK is Germanys biggest export market. Economically and philosophically, no-deal is the best deal for the UK But dont tell that to the MPs who are scared to death of it. But whats most important about all of this is that it is all just a symptom of a much deeper problem, the unwieldy nature of the European Union itself. Germany and the elites who have pushed this project, the unelected financiers I like to call The Davos Crowd, are dead set against anything that obstructs its completion. The wave of nationalist political fervor racing across the continent is, however, a consequence of their trying to form a political and fiscal union that far exceeds the original mandate sold to voters when they joined. And that is threatening to tear Mrs. Merkels union to pieces. This is why she and her posse in Brussels are so committed to screwing the British people. They have to send the right message to Italy and Hungary. Its why they want $39 billion. Its why they are using the non-issue of the Irish border to tie the UK into the customs union and single market forever. But, make no mistake, just like Merkels horrific treatment of Greece was seen as unconscionable by people across Europe in 2015 they are looking at how the Brits are being treated and are equally as appalled. Merkel, Juncker et.al. all saw the divisions within the Labour and Conservative parties that have resulted from their planning and thought them to be assets. But they arent. Maybe in the short-run it will get them what they want, another moment to kick the can down the road a little bit further. But in the long-run all it is doing is setting up for another round of Brexit in the future with a much less plastic set of circumstances. Because, as I said earlier, they have miscalculated. The British people are fed up with them and with their own government. The Labour party is squealing out of both sides of its mouth trying to get themselves out of the corner theyve painted themselves into. Because they can read the polls. And what was a solid Labour lead in the winter has become a solid Tory lead in the Spring. Because as split as the Tories are, voters understand that there are more of them trying to implement their will than there are Labour MPs. And that counts for something. Mrs. May has made a mess of things thinking she could shoe horn a terrible deal through parliament that would satisfy the EU while blowing up the traditional two-party system in the House of Commons. And this is why I say to hardened cynics who think these people are all-powerful that they arent. They are smart but they arent clever. They do the same thing that has worked before and run the same playbook. Brexit looks exactly like the Greek debt talks. Merkel didnt update her playbook for 2018. It wasnt a short-term negotiation. It was a three-year process that tried the patience of 66 million Brits. And they have seen the real face of the EU and many more of them want no part of it. Merkel and Juncker are trying to hold onto their manufactured leverage over the Brits to, in turn, hold onto a Union that is in the process of failing. May and her cabinet are trying to hold onto a relationship with the EU while the UK itself is now in danger of failing. The Scots are pushing for independence to stay in the EU. Wales is beginning to consider it. Northern Ireland doesnt like being anyones Trojan Horse. They have thoroughly underestimated the will of the people and it will cost them what little cache they have left with voters. Remember, confidence lost in the institutions of government begets a loss of confidence in the money and their ability to manage it. If you want a catalyst for a European sovereign debt crisis, look no further than Brexit now or the downstream effects of a delayed Brexit later. If an extension is approved by the EU and given to the Brits, Euroskeptics will go from commanding a projected 32-33% of a 705 seat European Parliament to possibly 35-36% of a larger one that includes the Brits. Because if Brexit is delayed and betrayed do you think Remainers will be elected en masse? Or do you think Farage et.al. will not storm into Brussels mad as hell? Merkel and May may have won this battle using their useful idiots like Anna Soubry and Ian Blackford but they will lose the war as the rest of Europe comes to terms with being frog-marched towards a future they neither want, signed up for or are willing to pay for anymore. No wonder the Yellow Vests keep showing up every weekend. The U.S. Air Force says it is buying 80 updated F-15C fighters to complement the new F-35 and (unofficially) make up for the fact that the air force is not getting as many F-35s as it believes it needs. There will be two variants, the single F-15CX and the two-seat F-15DX. Normally the two-seat version is for training but in this case the DX version provides the option to provide a GIB (Guy in the Back) to help with the use of the F-15X as a bomb truck for F-35s and F-22s. These two stealthy aircraft, especially the F-35, have demonstrated the ability to remain silent (few radio and radar transmissions) to detect targets and have less stealthy aircraft (or missile units on the ground) launch weapons to destroy the target. Israeli F-35s, the only ones with combat experience, may have already demonstrated this technique over Syria. The X version would combine years of experience and upgrades for American and foreign F-15s to produce a more capable (better electronics and larger bomb load) and durable (built to operate for 12,000 flight hours) aircraft. The X model would carry up to 14 tons of bombs and missiles and be built to avoid a lot of the structural fatigue problems F-15Cs encountered. While the two-seat F-15E fighter-bomber is still available for sale new, all existing F-15Cs are at least 30 years old. On paper, the F-35 will eventually (5-10 years) become cheaper to maintain and operate than the F-15C. The F-15X will have a cost advantage immediately. The manufacturer is willing to produce them at a fixed cost (about $72 million each) and absorb any unforeseen costs. The manufacturer has additional incentives to make the F-15X work; export sales. Meanwhile, the F-15E continues in service and demonstrates how well an updated F-15 design can work. But the production of the F-15E is scheduled to end in 2022 and the X model would keep F-15 production going as the two-seater F-15X can be equipped to operate as a more advanced F-15E. This willingness to produce the X model should not be a surprise as there have been signs for a long time that an updated F-15 would be useful. For example in 2008 the air force announced plans to operate its 36 ton U.S. F-15E for at least another ten years, and probably longer. In service for twenty years now, the F-15E can carry up to 11 tons of bombs and missiles, along with a targeting pod and an internal 20mm cannon. It's an all-weather aircraft that can fly one-way up to 3,900 kilometers. It uses in-flight refueling to hit targets anywhere on the planet. Smart bombs made the F-15E particularly efficient. The backseater handles the electronics and bombing, and the F-15E remains a potent air-superiority fighter, making it an exceptional combat aircraft. This success prompted Israel, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Singapore and currently Qatar to buy it, paying about $100 million per aircraft. In the U.S. Air Force, the F-15E is one of the most popular aircraft for combat pilots to fly, even more so than the new F-22. The F-15E entered service in 1989 and within a decade Russia decided this novel fighter-bomber design was worth emulating. Russia developed its own F-15E, the 45 ton Su-34, which was yet another variant of the 33 ton Su-27. Su-34s to cost $36 million each (less than half the cost of an F-15E) and included a full set of defensive and offensive sensors (radars, targeting cameras, laser designators) and electronic warfare gear and could carry eight tons of missiles and smart bombs. Although development work began in the late 1990s, the Su-34 did not enter service until 2014 and proved capable in Syria. Meanwhile, the older F-15s, which entered service in 1976, are falling apart. In 2009 the air force retired the last of its 384 F-15A fighters. Long flown only by reserve units, these were old aircraft and all built in the 1970s. Air force reserve units got the F-15As in the 1980s and 1990s, as active duty units got the new F-15C. But by 2009 the F-22 is was entering service, and more F-15Cs were going to the reserves. Many of those F-15As flew for over 30 years. Unfortunately, the later model F-15s are not aging well. In 2007 the air force grounded all of its 442 remaining F-15As and Cs (and the smaller number of two-seat B and D trainer models) for 18 days, then grounded them again, all because of suspicions that portions of the aircraft structure have been weakened by stress (lots of maneuvering during combat training). Before that, the air force halted non-critical flights of its F-15C (the interceptor version) fighters after a National Guard F-15C crashed. It appeared that the crash was the result of structural failure. In 2002 an F-15C traveling at high (over 2,000 kilometers an hour) speed crashed when its left tail fin broke off. At the time the F-15Es operating in Afghanistan were not grounded initially, but soon were when it was realized that the problem might be a design flaw, not age, that caused the 27 year old F-15C to go down. The F-15Es were restored to flight status after about a week, once each aircraft had undergone an extensive structural examination (taking about 13 man hours each). Most F-15Es were less than ten years old. But some F-15Cs were over twenty years old. This time around, the F-15Es were not grounded, because metal stress in the older F-15s would not occur in the F-15E, which is somewhat different in its internal structure and was designed to avoid the fatigue problems the F-15A and C models encountered. Structural failure is more common in older fighters that have lots of flight hours (over five thousand) on them. When originally designed, the F-15 was believed to have a service life of only 4,000 hours. But new materials and design techniques increased that to 8,000. In peacetime, F-15s are in the air 250-300 hours a year. But because of the 1991 Gulf War, the 1990s "no-fly-zone" patrols over Iraq, and the operations after 2001, the F-15 fleet piled up the hours more quickly, and many are approaching the 8,000 hour mark much more rapidly than planned. If weak components are detected, they can be replaced with stronger ones, made of materials not available when the F-15 was originally built. But you want to find the weak components before they fail. While scanning technology has improved, it's still not good enough to detect all the F-15 components possibly weakened by years of use. As a result, flying an F-15C became a bit more stressful from then on. To some in the air force, this situation has a bright side. One can now make a more compelling case to build more F-22s, to replace F-15 that are wearing out faster than expected. That did not happen and the delays in getting the F-35 into mass production kept the idea of designing an improved F-15 to fill the gap. Because of that, the F-15X was not a recent idea but the accumulation of proposals that have been showing up for over a decade. Another area that is getting a lot more attention from engineers than journalists is the impact of heavy and sustained stress on combat aircraft. This component failure problem is not unique to the F-15 and has been occurring with increasing frequency among aging fighter aircraft all over the world. The end of the Cold War in 1991 led to the cancellation of many warplane replacement programs. Air forces were compelled to make do with thousands of increasingly older aircraft. Whenever an aircraft goes down because of a structural failure, you have to ground all planes of that type until you know exactly what caused the loss, and made any needed repairs to other aircraft of that type. Pilots are a pretty sharp lot, so governments don't dare try to play games with this. If the pilots suspect they are being set up to fly dodgy aircraft, they will not fly them, or not fly them in a useful (stressful) way. The Foundation for Municipal Development has reported that 45 per cent of respondents to its survey said they would like to see the opposition party be part of the ruling coalition formed after the elections held in Finland on 14 April 2019. THE SOCIAL DEMOCRATS should be at the helm of power after the upcoming parliamentary elections, according to almost a half of Finns. The Green League, the National Coalition and the Centre were the next most popular choices in the survey, receiving the nod of approval from 35 per cent, 33 per cent and 32 per cent of respondents respectively. Roughly a quarter of respondents expressed their support for the Left Alliance (25%) and the Swedish Peoples Party (23%), while almost a fifth of respondents did so for the Finns Party and the Christian Democrats. The Blue Reform, in turn, was chosen by around one in ten of the 1,112 respondents interviewed by Kantar TNS between 1 and 6 February. The Finns Party was the only party to register an increase in its popularity in the survey since last summer, according to the Foundation for Municipal Development. Both the Centre and the National Coalition, by contrast, have seen their popularity decrease for an extended period of time the former practically since the start of the electoral term and the latter since 2017 and particularly among supporters of the Social Democrats. The survey results also shed light on what would be the ideal coalition composition from the viewpoints of the supporters of different parties. Supporters of the Centre, for example, indicated they would like to see a coalition between the Centre, the National Coalition and the Social Democrats. Supporters of the National Coalition indicated that their preferred coalition partners would be the Centre, the Green League and the Swedish Peoples Party. Supporters of the Green League, the Left Alliance and Social Democrats were widely of the opinion that the government should be formed on a green-left agenda. Supporters of the Finns Party, in turn, were reluctant to welcome any other party to the government. Aleksi Teivainen HT As people around the country, come to terms about what has happened in Christchurch, back here in Tauranga, people are visiting local mosques and are planning vigils. Many people across Tauranga have been arriving at the Tauranga Mosque on 18th Ave this morning with flowers, in an outpouring of love and support for the Muslim community and to express their grief and sorrow at the shootings in Christchurch. Each person walks forward solemnly, lays their flowers along the fence line, and then steps back with head bowed for a few moments of silence. I was at the Tauranga Farmers Market getting fruit and vegetables, and got flowers too to bring down to the mosque, says Shekira Parata. I also got a drink and food from McDonalds to give to the police on duty. We really appreciate them and the job they are doing for our community. Shekira Parata with flowers. She also brought McDonalds for police at the Tauranga Mosque. Local residents Savannah Sandlant, Gabrielle Wood, and Clare Morris are organising a vigil for tonight. Savannah says its a get together of people who are heartbroken by yesterdays events, people who cant comprehend it, people who have been directly affected, and just anyone who wants to show their support to the Muslim community. As everyone keeps saying, nobody thought this would happen here. Its all been rather spontaneous, but things are coming together as more and more people see the event. Weve been contacted by a choir to come along and sing, and there has just been so much love, people really want to do something, anything they can to show their support for the Muslim community and those affected. Anyone is welcome to come along and show their support. We have extended an invitation to the mosque also, and we want everyone in the Muslim community to know that they are welcome to come along and that we are standing with them in the face of hatred. It has no place in our community. The vigil is planned to take place tonight at Mount Main Beach, in front of Leisure Island at 7pm. Savannah says to bring anyone you know who wants to show their support. We would love it if people brought songs or prayers, words of love and support, megaphone, microphones, or speakers if you have them. Please bring light sources that do not have an open flame such as torches, phones etc. This is to respect the current complete fire ban on the beach and areas surrounding. An event page has been set up on Facebook and updates will be posted there throughout the day. Many people have headed out to Greerton today, to either take part in or attend the 2019 Greerton Village Fayre Vintage, Retro and Steampunk event. The third running of this event, enabled people to show off all things vintage and retro with a bit of Steampunk thrown in. Theres a whole range of things to do and see, including a live band The Whittakers playing, A best dressed competition and The Breeze radio station on site with the wishing tree. Everyone can come and make a wish and on Monday morning Jolene and Mark will choose a wish and make it come true live on The Breeze. Maybe someone wants new glasses from the optometrist in Greerton or have their hair done at a Greerton Village salon. All wishes from within Greerton, says Arun Beard from The Breeze at The Wishing Tree. Rozanne and Paul de Wild. Juha Sipilas resignation over a failure to deliver promised wide-ranging reforms to health and social care has been described by the international press as cynical, justified, and unnecessary in equal measure. THE RESIGNATION OF THE FINNISH GOVERNMENT dominated international headlines about Finland this week, with editorials displaying a mixture of surprise, concern, and bafflement at the decision. In other news, recent developments in the proposed high-speed railway link between Helsinki and Tallinn have begun to gain traction in the international press, with particular attention being afforded to the fact that Chinas state-owned companies are emerging as a major source of funding. Meanwhile, the revelation that self-driving buses will soon be hitting the street of Espoo and Helsinki was also the source of several pieces. Finlands government just made its most popular move: to resign Bloomberg Finlands Prime Minister Juha Sipila last week made the most popular decision of his four-year term: he resigned. A poll by the countrys biggest newspaper, Helsingin Sanomat, showed six in ten Finns backed his choice. Thats almost double the cabinets highest approval rating, 36 percent, attained shortly after it took office in 2015. Many of the governments policies have been highly divisive: budget cuts, a labor pact to boost competitiveness that made people work more for less, penalizing the jobless people who fail to show they are actively seeking to improve their situation, and opening up taxis to increased competition. Resistance to its failed reform on health and social care was widespread, also within the governing parties. The Kantar TNS survey, published on Tuesday, had 1,084 responses through an Internet panel and a margin of error of about 3 percentage points. The government continues in a caretaker role until a new coalition is formed after a general election on April 14. Original article appeared in Bloomberg on 13/03/19 and can be found here. Finlands Sipila hopes to turn crisis into election reboot Politico Finland's Juha Sipila is trying to reboot his premiership a month ahead of parliamentary elections that could see his liberal party cede ground to the Social Democrats. Having failed to deliver a wide-ranging reform package, Sipila, a former IT executive, hit the off switch on Friday morning and told President Sauli Niinisto he would resign. I have said that my government works according to the principle of do or die, he told a news conference in Helsinki. I have come to the conclusion that my government must submit its resignation. But by the end of the day, the power was back on. Niinisto had reappointed Sipila as caretaker leader. Now that the government coalition has officially collapsed, the parties that formed it may also find they have more freedom to campaign to their own individual strengths and move the debate away from their failed reform efforts and poor showings in opinion polls. With its rural roots, the Center Party, for example, has typically appealed to voters by promising to decentralize power and support farmers. Its platform for the April vote centers around promoting equality in all regions of Finland as well as supporting families and fighting climate change. The image of a fresh start might help, said Teivo Teivainen, a political scientist at the University of Helsinki. Original article appeared in Politico on 11/03./19 and can be found here. Finlands outgoing premier may bow out as party chair The New York Times Finland's outgoing prime minister, who abruptly tendered the resignation of his center-right government just weeks before the general election, said Saturday he won't seek to remain as chairman of his party next year if support continues to decline. Juha Sipila, now heading a caretaker government in the Nordic country, told Finnish public broadcaster YLE that polls showing 14-percent support for the ruling Center Party meant "that I won't for sure be running as a (chairman) candidate with that kind of support" at the 2020 party congress. Sipila had headed a three-party coalition government since 2015, deciding in a surprise move Friday to step down because of the Cabinet's failure to push through a major social and health reform package. The plan, which has been worked on by previous governments since 2006, is meant to tackle an aging population, improve efficiency and reduce public spending by 3 billion euros ($3.4 billion) by 2029. It pledged to offer Finnish municipalities and regions larger freedom to choose between public and private service providers for citizens' social and health care. The 57-year-old former business executive and entrepreneur has chaired the centrist Center Party one of the big three main political parties in Finland since 2012. Finland, a Nordic country of 5.5 million people, will assume the rotating six-month presidency of the European Union on July 1. Main opposition leader Antti Rinne, head of the Social Democrats, has expressed concern that Friday's Cabinet resignation leaves Finland without a government for months and cuts short preparation for the EU presidency with a large agenda of key issues such as Brexit. Original article appeared in The New York Times on 09/03/19 and can be found here. The Chinese quotient behind the financing of the world's longest undersea tunnel Freight Waves The Tallinn tunnel, connecting the Estonian capital with Helsinki, the Finnish capital, has secured funding to the tune of $17 billion. The tunnel will run through the Gulf of Finland for about 60 miles, and would be the longest undersea rail tunnel once construction is completed. And due to the considerable distance covered, the tunnel necessitates the creation of at least one artificial island along its length. Today, transit between the two coastal cities is possible via a 30-minute flight, or by the numerous ferries that shuttle between the borders. A tunnel between the two capitals is mutually beneficial, not just making it easier for people to transit faster, but by increasing the efficiency of freight transport. Finland is currently Estonias largest export partner, with the trade portfolio being Estonias most diversified as yet. FinEst Bay Area Development is heading the tunnel development project, and it announced its funding raise from Chinas Touchstone Capital Partners Ltd., that would cover the entire cost of construction. However, observing the project at-large, it is interesting to note the Chinese funding that is going into yet another construction program on the European mainland. It pays to keep a tab on the Chinese One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative and the portfolio of construction projects it has financed over the last decade. The investments seem to be part of a greater plan of world logistics dominance quite indicative of how the Chinese extend their goodwill at the commencement of such infrastructural programs, only to seek decisive geographic advantages later on. In South Asia and Africa, the Chinese have been systematically driving modern colonization, through its debt-trap diplomacy by providing billions of dollars to countries in dire need of infrastructure financing, and turning predatory when various states cannot repay the debt in time. This has enabled China to capture Sri Lankas deep-sea Hambantota port and it is on the verge of taking control of Kenyas strategically important Mombasa port as the country is at the brink of defaulting on its $2.25 billion debt to China. The Chinese footsteps into European territory have also been well-documented. The Chinese shipping giants Cosco Shipping and China Merchants Port Holdings have opened up their deep pockets to take over the terminal in Zeebrugge, the second-biggest port in Belgium after Antwerp. The Chinese also operate the Greek port of Piraeus, one of the largest ports in the Mediterranean region and the maritime gateway to Europe. China is now financing the construction of a high-speed railway between Budapest and Belgrade, the capitals of Hungary and Serbia respectively. The multi-billion dollar investment across Europes most impoverished region could possibly be another episode in the debt-trap diplomacy series unless the European Union (EU) bails out the countries in the event of a financial catastrophe. Orginal article appeared in Freight Waves on 11/03/19 and can be found here. Mujis self-driving bus is hitting the streets this spring Curbed A few months back, Muji announced it would be getting into the autonomous car game with Gacha, a rounded all-weather minibus designed to shuttle people around city streets. Now, it appears the buses are ready to make their real-world debut in Finland later this spring. The bus will launch its test program in the Finnish city of Espoo with the aim of rolling out to Helsinki, Vantaa, and other Finnish cities later this year. Muji developed Gacha with the Finnish technology company Sensible 4, and no surprise here, but it looks like a bus from the future. Muji imbued the vehicle with its minimalist DNA, creating clean, streamlined interiors and large windows. Gacha stretches 30 feet long and can hold up to 16 passengers. It has an LED strip that wraps around the front and back like a ribbon and serves as the headlights and an announcement ticker. The bus maximum speed is 25 mph, and its outfitted with a suite of sensors, cameras, and GPS software that will be put to the test in the coming months. Muji says the bus can operate on a fixed, predetermined path, just like an invisible railway, or it can respond to user requests and choose an optimized route. Its not entirely clear how Gacha will operate at launch and how much human intervention will be involved. Original article appeared in Curbed on 14/03/19 and can be found here. Adam Oliver Smith - HT (@adamoliversmith) Image Credit: Lehitkuva I was having a coffee at Grindz with Andy Belcher recently, and we browsed through his book of over 200 photographs. Girls in red cat suits on the back of motorcycles, someone leaping from Aucklands Sky Tower, the Kaituna Jet, Targa Rally NZ, White Island, the Rotorua canopy zipline and Waitomo Caves - so many photos. Such wonderful wildlife, interesting people and happy moments that celebrate life. How long have you been doing this? I asked. He grinned, and his eye lit up. Positive and upbeat, it is his cheerful personality that originally drew me to want to find out what drives him. His photographs reflect a lively, vivacious nature, and his body of work is legendary. We figured out its been 35 years of photography, resulting in a huge and diverse range of stunning images from the worlds of tourism, travel, adventure and underwater. Then I turned a page. A stark photo confronted me. It was one of Andy sitting amongst a scene of complete devastation. His face and shoulders told a story of shock and trauma. I nearly got killed by a tsunami in Samoa, says Andy. It struck on the very first morning of a holiday in 2009. I was running up the hill with the water sweeping up behind me. I met Brett Phibbs the day after, and we went down the coast. He said show me how you feel, so I sat there, and he took the photo. The photo subsequently appeared on the front page of a national newspaper. Another dramatic moment was nearly drowning in Vanuatu. I was on a trip for Ocean Action Magazine and wed heard there was a tame dugong across the other side of the island of Tanna. Some local kids came with us, and stood in the water splashing. The dugong popped up. The water was murky so I was encouraged to swim out to get better photos. I was only on a snorkel, not scuba. All of a sudden the dugong rocked past me. I got some shots and he came past again. I flipped over to head back and the next thing I knew he came up under me, throwing me out of the water. Badly winded, Andy struggled to shore. I later heard that the dugong had taken a scuba diver down to the bottom, and quickly realised that could have been me. He was trying to get his own back I guess. His photography started with underwater photography in 1984. I spent a week in Papua New Guinea diving, and the water was unbelievable. The coral colours were fantastic and something about that clicked for me. When I came home I bought an underwater camera. I didnt have a clue what I was doing, and I hadnt thought of becoming a photographer. I just wanted to take pictures underwater. Hes met challenges along the way with his can do attitude. The ability to bounce back is huge for Andy, and his seize the day approach to life was resonating with me. The only way to survive as a photographer is to be versatile. People phone up and say can you do this or that? Even if Ive never done it before, Ive said of course I can. When asked can you shoot digital? I said yes. I then put the phone down and went and bought a digital camera. From photographing the Rena to many other projects, Andy has found that one job often leads on to the next. I had a call from TVNZ in the 1990s asking if they could use my photographs to promote funding for their new documentary. I said yes, but also asked if they needed a stills photographer for the documentary. Two months later they rang back, said they had the funding, and asked me to join them. I had nine months of sailing through the Subantarctic, Fiordland, Solomon Islands and Tasmania. I won first place in the British Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards, and went to England to receive the award from Sir Richard Attenborough. From that I had a call from Japan to go and shoot more projects. In Fiji he met a filmmaker with a drone. Arriving home he bought himself one, of course. Basically, the way I like to work is to think outside the square, he says. I disagreed somewhat, suggesting hes someone who likes to jump outside the square. Not surprisingly, I learn he completed 421 sky dives in his early 30s. Hes written books, photographed weddings and run photography workshops. He tells anyone who wants to learn underwater photography to go and do 100 dives first, then come and see him. After guest speaking at a Te Kuiti meeting, someone asked if he photographed adventures sports. I said of course I do. He got me to photograph The Lost World Cave at Waitomo. Dangling off the cave ropes was Andys introduction to adventure photography. Once word got around that I was abseiling down into holes, that spread, and I got a reputation for doing speciality underwater, tourism and adventure. Ive got to keep doing it and applying myself to making my images creative. I like to create stuff so people ask wow, how did you do that? An opportunity can open something else, and you never know what can come from it. Always say yes. Bay of Plenty Our client has plenty of work in the pipeline and as such they are in need of qualified or experienced carpenters for an... View or Apply on GoodWork.co.nz It was a subtle change of language - a tweak of her words and the online audience she was targeting. It doubled Tauranga glassmaker Jo Trickers income in a year. After swapping ideas with a business mentor, Jos glassmaking workshops at her Judea studio were re-labelled experiences in her internet promotions. Yes, people wanted an experience rather than a workshop or a class, even though they may seem like exactly the same thing, she says. Jo claims its all about perceptions. People perceive an experience to be fun - something they havent done before, something they might enjoy. They can do glassmaking for fun and theres no pressure on them to perform, to be good or talented or produce something wonderful at the end. This approach is in opposition to a class or workshop, where someone learns something and takes away skills for further use. For the previous five years, Jo had been propping up her Jo Tricker Glass business with personal funds from a property sale eight years earlier. I wasnt even breaking even, she says, and I couldnt dip into my own funds forever. She sought the help of Business Mentors New Zealand - the not-for-profit group dedicated to supporting the success and growth of small businesses through the knowledge and experience of volunteer mentors, Jo feels she has finally turned a corner. Last October I was still questioning myself. Now I feel like my business has the potential to be something. She attributes that turnaround to a combination of new ideas, advice and support from business mentor Bryan Winters. Jo is one of hundreds of New Zealanders who, after turning their passions and hobbies into a business, are faced with the realities of running that business successfully. At present, there are more than 500,000 small-to-medium businesses, with 850 new start-ups every month. Unfortunately, 30 per cent are doomed to fail within two years. Isolation, or lack of support, is one of the main reasons. Jo says she appreciated having Bryans unbiased support. Small business owners need to consult outside their circle of friends and family, so they can front up to what they are doing and the possibility that it might not work out. Like many SMEs, Jo Tricker Glass became a business when her hobby outgrew her garage. I started up my business because of my passion, she says, but I had no business experience whatsoever. Having Bryan to reassure her that she could learn the required business skills was invaluable. You need to be open to other ideas, and also to the fact you might fail, she says. So, when Bryan suggested marketing her classes as experiences rather than lessons or workshops, Jo took the opportunity. Bryan says the process to get to where Jo is now sounds simple, but it took months to shift her thinking patterns. We were firing shots in various directions, but eventually it became easier to sell the experience rather than the product, he says. Once Jo listed her workshops online as experiences, he says the bookings started almost immediately. I was as surprised as her, but it doesnt matter - it worked. Half of Jos business is now dedicated to her glassmaking workshop experiences, while the other half is spent making her own creations for sale throughout New Zealand. Now the mentored becomes the mentor. Jo has her own tips for start-ups. Never underestimate how much money you will need to get you from zero to sustainability, she says. Work out how much you think you will need for a year - then triple it. Most businesses I talk to seem to turn a corner in the fifth or sixth year. Be prepared for a long and sometimes lonely journey - not everyone will believe in what you are doing. You need oodles of resilience, a great work ethic and buckets of self-belief. Do what you love and love what you do - never lose sight. Police received reports of a car on fire on SH29 close to Soldiers Road and Valley View Road, Lower Kaimai, around 7pm on Saturday. The occupant was out of the vehicle and uninjured. FENZ were also notified. A motorist at the scene reported that a white Mazda Axela sedan car had overheated and caught fire. Called The Spirit of Dubai Parfums by Nabeel, the perfume is priced at an incredible $1.3 million thank to its lavish casing that comprises a hand-blown Italian Murano glass bottle complete with 3,571 sparkling diamonds and pearls. Mr. Asghar Adam Ali, Founder & Chairman of Nabeel Perfumes Group of Companies, said, My vision was not only to capture Dubais persona in one monumental piece of art, but to also create a fragrance that embodied the pinnacle of luxury in the world of perfumery. As for its fragrance, it is characterised by notes of amber, sandalwood, rare pure Indian agarwood, musk, pure Turkish rose, patchouli ylang-ylang, and frankincense. It is claimed to last on the skin for more than 12 hours and up to 30 days on fabric. The Murano glass bottle has the capacity to hold three litres of perfume, which is dispensed via an innovative remote-controlled spray mechanism that adjusts to the users ideal height. It is also the only perfume to have landed two Guinness World Record titles, for Most diamonds set on a perfume bottle and Tallest remote controlled (RC) fragrance spray product. The perfume is currently on display at the Dubai Malls Fashion Avenue as part of the malls ART+ series. Syracuse, NY -- A Syracuse man, acting as his own lawyer, won a not-guilty verdict this evening in the 2008 shooting death of a transgender woman. Dwight DeLee, 30, had been charged with manslaughter as a hate crime for the decade-old shooting that left Lateisha Green dead. A 2009 jury convicted him of that charge and illegal weapon possession. But that jurys manslaughter verdict was overturned on appeal because the jury also, impossibly, acquitted him of regular manslaughter. After a long court battle, DeLee was brought back for a retrial this week in Syracuse. Between the homicide and now, DeLee had spent nearly eight years in jails and prisons for her death. But today, he left court cleared of homicide. An Onondaga County jury took only a few hours Friday afternoon -- between lengthy read-backs of trial testimony -- to find DeLee not guilty of manslaughter as a hate crime. Its a dramatic reversal of the 2009 jurys verdict. That panel had found DeLee guilty of hate-crime manslaughter -- albeit in a verdict overturned on appeal -- and of illegal weapon possession. DeLee had already served four years in prison for the illegal weapons charge, which will stay on his record despite the latest jurys verdict acquitting him of the homicide. DeLee spent a year in jail awaiting the first trial and another three years in jail awaiting his second trial. Charles Keller, who assisted DeLee at his retrial this week, described DeLee as almost speechless when the verdict came back around 5:30 p.m. He and his family were elated, as you can well expect, Keller said. Meanwhile, prosecutor Joseph Coolican attributed the verdict to challenges of retrying a decade-old case. While obviously disappointed, we respect the jurys verdict, Coolican said. The case reflects the challenges of retrying a case 10 years later. DeLee offered a polished, 30-minute closing argument Friday morning that sought to highlight inconsistencies in testimony by key witnesses. Not only were the accounts contradictory to each other, but they also changed from the first trial to the second trial, he noted. Coolican had sought to cast those inconsistencies as the natural outcome of multiple people witnessing the same event. He said memories change over 10 years. Whoever shot Green to death fired into a vehicle she was riding in on Seymour Street, using a gun that was later found hidden in a nearby house. All the witnesses at trial pointed to DeLee. But he argued that they were all protecting each other. DeLee had faced 25 years in prison if convicted. Instead, hes close to freedom. As of 9:30 p.m. Friday, he was still being held on jail on $2,500 bail on an assault charge, in which hes accused of punching cops who were seizing his vehicle in 2016. But this marks the second time in a year and a half that a homicide defendant, representing himself, has won an acquittal in Onondaga County. In 2017, Derrick Wilson was found not-guilty of the 2000 murder of Waliek Hamer in Syracuse. Before then, Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick said hed never seen a pro se murder defendant win a trial. Sometimes it really pays off to go with the tried and true. Its kind of like the old saw, If it aint broke, dont fix it. The folks at Redhouse, along with their new artistic director, Hunter Foster, might have been thinking along these lines when they decided to mount a production of Herb Gardners urbanesque Tony Award winner from 1985, Im Not Rappaport, which has theatrical DNA very similar to Neil Simons earlier blockbuster, The Odd Couple. One might even say that Rappaport seems like The Odd Couple has been sent to Central Park to play outdoors, instead of spewing its comedic wisecracks inside of a stuffy, cigar-infused New York City apartment. Vincent J. Cardinal directs this funny, yet poignant gem. And like the Simon play, you better have two tried and true actors hurling the mile-a-minute quips and insults (remember Lemmon and Matthau or Randall and Klugman?) in expert timing, vaudeville-style, or you dont have the essence (and the biting wit and sarcasm) endemic to plays of this ilk. No worries on that score for this production with the likes of Fred Grandy (Nat Moyer) and Ted Lange (Midge Carter) who have reunited to reignite their comic sensibilities, so well-honed from their Gopher and Isaac characters from ABCs Love Boat television series that ran from 1976-1990. They said that they wanted to see if they still had it. They do. Gardners inspiration for the play came from listening to older men talking in the park, and thats exactly whats been recreated for the stage when Nat Moyer, an aging, Jewish socialist dissident meets up with Midge Carter, a black building superintendent, in Central Park, and they begin sharing stories and opinions on a variety of subjects, about which, for the most part, they are in complete disagreement. And thus, the fireworks begin. The two actors handle Gardners generous portions of quick wit and verbal complexity with precise timing, combined with realistic, unwasted movement. They are genuinely two older men trading barbs in the park. While Nat philosophizes in pronouncements about the beauty inherent in the original Communist ideas, Midge prides himself in his singular ability to control his building, being the only one who knows how to operate the old Erie City boiler and stressing its importance to the buildings very existence. The boiler reference, repeated in the play, seems to be an obvious metaphor for the aged duos own relevance. Subjects range from the aches and pains of aging, to ungrateful and disagreeable children, to the myriad problems in society, to the general ills of the system, all couched in well-written, expertly delivered repartee thats verbally akin to watching two fencing masters trading blows. Audience members of a certain age will especially appreciate and identify with the two characters. Moyers fondness for wandering the streets and creating heroic characters in imagined scenarios keeps his only loyal child, Clara (Laura Austin) up at night and searching for facilities where he might be safer, yet he rebuffs her suggestions at every turn, preferring his independence and freedom. One of the central scenes, when she finds him sitting in the park, is beautifully played by Grandy and Austin as the father-daughter engagement in a loving, verbal tug-of-war, wherein bits and pieces of stories Clara has heard all her life are recited by both characters as if in mirrored pantomime. Its a fine example of practiced, experienced actors with words and movement in perfect sync with each other. Other members of this finely-tuned ensemble include John Bixler (Danforth), one of Midges complaining tenants, Marguerite Mitchell (Laurie), a young artist in the park who also represents a real love from Nats past, Ashley Strand (The Cowboy), a threatening drug dealer, and Ryan Stryker Dunn (Gilley), a knife wielding punk. The latter two characters become causes for Nats indomitable urge for Quixote-like commentary. Played upon Tim Browns single, realistic set, replete with a ramp to a bridge, a working lamppost, a variety of greenery and two park benches, characters enter and exit, unobtrusively, under and over the bridge as if on a normal walk or run in the park. Details: What: Im Not Rappaport Where: Redhouse, 400 S. Salina St. Syracuse (Old Sibleys Building) When Seen: Opening Night, Friday, March 15, 2019 Length of Production: Two hours, 15 minutes, including intermission Family Guide: Suitable for all ages, but would not interest children Runs Through: March 24 Information and Tickets: 315-362-2785 and www.theredhouse.org SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- The Syracuse Islamic Council is set to hold a vigil Saturday in memory of victims of shootings at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, the council announced Friday. The vigil will be held at 3 p.m. at the Mosque to Jesus, Son of Mary. The mosque is located at 501 Park St. At least 49 people were killed in the attacks and another 20 were seriously injured, according to CNN. Police have arrested four people in connection with the shooting, according to the Associated Press. Police also defused explosive devices in a car, the AP reported. The gunman livestreamed the attack for 17 minutes on Facebook using a helmet-mounted camera, according to the AP. The point of these attacks is to devastate, and sow fear in the hearts of Muslims, the council said. We cannot let fear deter us from frequenting our houses of worship, nor should we lose trust in Gods mercy. We will take more precautions, but at the same time, rely on Him. To immortalize the legacy of renowned physicist and cosmologist Stephen Hawking, a commemorative 50-pence coin bearing his name and a black hole will be available in the United Kingdom. Black Hole In Your Pocket The attractive coin features a drawing of concentric circles that represent a black hole and the equation describing the entropy of a black hole. Although the coin features a 2D image, its surface appears to be forming deep notches toward the center of the black hole. It features the name of Stephen Hawking on the concentric circles, and above it, his signature theorem on black holes. "It's a 2D surface that seems to have a 3D image on it. It's as though you could fall into the black hole," according to Lucy Hawking, Stephen Hawking's daughter. Lucy and Tim Hawking, the physicist's younger son, attended the launch where they struck their own coins. "I am thrilled to know that there is a coin commemorating his work," says Tim. "It's very beautiful, it's very elegant, it's very appropriate, and I think we feel enormously privileged and honored that the Royal Mint has passed this coin in his memory," Lucy added. The formula used to define black holes entropy known as the Bekenstein-Hawking formula was created by Hawking and Jacob Bekenstein in the 1970s. Their formula describes the thermodynamic entropy of a black hole with a given mass. The two scientists found that the entropy of a black hole is proportional to the area of its event horizon. They said that as an object falls into a black hole, its entropy increases. Collectors' Item The commemorative coin will not be in circulation but will be available for sale at the UK Royal Mint website for 10 pound sterling or around $13. The coins that are meant for collectors will come in gold proof, silver proof, silver proof piedfort, and "brilliant uncirculated" at prices ranging from 55 or about $72 to 795 or about $1050 each. The coin's designer Edwina Ellis said the initial inspiration was Stephen Hawking's description of black holes. Ellis was inspired by one of Hawking's lectures in which she said the scientist invited the audience to contemplate peering into the black hole before diving in. "I wanted to fit a big black hole on the tiny coin and wish he was still here chortling at the thought," says Ellis, the engraver of the Stephen Hawking coin. The coin's release coincides with Hawking's first death anniversary. It is part of the UK Royal Mint's celebration of British innovators in science. Hawking's commemorative coins will join the ones made in honor of Sir Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin. Hawking died at the age of 76 on March 14, 2018. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Amazon takes down listings for two books claiming to provide a cure for autism. The books, titled Healing the Symptoms Known as Autism and Fight Autism and Win, both claim to provide cures for the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) that are scientifically unproven and potentially harmful to patients. The efforts to clamp down on the false and unscientific claims come after an article published on Wired this week noted that Amazon is littered with books that provide miracle cures for autism. The so-called cures are all unproven and even potentially dangerous, including sex, yoga, veganism, and electroconvulsive therapy, among others. The Dangers Of Unproven Cures According to SFGate, one of the recommendations in Healing the Symptoms Known as Autism is for children with autism drink and bathe in chlorine dioxide. Chlorine dioxide, often referred to as Miracle Mineral Solution (MMS) by those who promote it, is falsely touted to cure autism as well as other diseases such as HIV, cancer, malaria, and the common cold, among others. In truth, chlorine dioxide is a potent bleach that's widely used for industrial water treatment and stripping textiles. FDA warns people that taking chlorine dioxide orally can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and severe dehydration, according to a report in 2010. "There's a tremendous emotional appeal to just having a solution, and if you're not a very critical thinker or you're so exhausted and desperate that you'll try anything, you'll go down the road of trying these various options," Isabel Smith, a professor of autism research at Dalhousie University in Canada, explains to Wired. She adds that families with children who have autism are desperate and are being taken advantage of with these unproven cures. There Is No Autism Cure: CDC According to the CDC, there is no medication that's been proven to cure autism or even treat the core symptoms of the condition. However, there are certain medications that help people on the spectrum function better. These medications do not cure, but they address specific symptoms, such as depression, seizures, and high energy levels, among others. Early intervention and therapy can also provide developmental assistance to people with autism. Popular Websites, Social Media Sites Crack Down On Misinformation Amazon isn't the only website making a move to stop the flood of fake information online. In the wake of public criticism and a rise in measles cases spurred by the anti-vaccination movement, a number of internet companies are now cracking down on misinformation that could potentially cause harm to individual and public health. Back in February, social media website Pinterest is blocked search results for "vaccination," in hopes of stopping the spread of misinformation on their platform. The company started implementing the policy after they noticed a number of images shared on their website are cautioning people against getting vaccinated. Facebook and Instagram also recently announced new regulations, which includes algorithms that make it more difficult for users to find anti-vaccination groups and pages. Ads with false information will also be banned. YouTube has also committed to adjustments that would reduce the conspiracy theory videos and extremist content that are likely to spread misinformation on the popular video platform. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. In a bid to crack down abusive ads, malwares, and phishing scams, Google, in a report published Thursday, said that it removed billions of ads that violate its policies last year. The Mountain View company also announced a new Policy Manager for Google Ads to help improve the digital advertising ecosystem. Billions Of Ads Killed According to the report, Google blocked 2.3 billion ads in 2018. That's over 6 million ads removed per day or about 75 ads per second. Though still a huge number, in comparison, this is smaller as compared to ads removed in 2017, with more than 3.2 billion bad ads blocked a total of 100 ads taken down per second. On a more positive note, in 2018, Google cut ties with nearly 734,000 app developers and publishers and around 1 million advertiser accounts, which is about double the previous year's statistics. In addition to this, the company said it removed ads that violated its publisher policies in 1.5 million apps and almost 28 million webpages. Google Ads Policy Manager Last year, Google added 31 ads policies targeted toward abuses in areas such as cryptocurrency, ticket resellers, third-party tech support, and local services. "We took down 2.3 billion bad ads in 2018 for violations of both new and existing policies, including nearly 207,000 ads for ticket resellers, over 531,000 ads for bail bonds and approximately 58.8 million phishing ads," Scott Spencer, Google's director of sustainable ads, said in a blogpost. However, Google's efforts to make digital advertising ecosystem safer don't end here. Moving forward, a new Policy Manager for Google Ads will be available starting April. The new Policy Manager, similar to the AdSense Policy Center, allows users to check if their ads violate any policy and gives tips and recommendations on how to improve ads to ensure policy compliance. Google said it'll also include features to track appeals history and show account information overview. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Apple may be adding "life preservation" to its iPhone's features in the future. This follows after a 43-year-old Australian man in northern New South Wales was reportedly saved by his iPhone in a bow-and-arrow attack. According to reports, the man drove into his driveway at around 9 a.m. in Nimbin Road on Wednesday when he noticed another man, who is known to him, armed with a bow and arrow.The victim then tried to take a picture using his iPhone when the arrow suddenly pierced through the phone. Too Bad The Screen Protector Didn't Survive The impact was so forceful that the arrow pierced right through the iPhone, embedding the ammunition before it hit the victim. However, the force of the impact probably caught him off guard and the iPhone reportedly hit his chin resulting in minor injuries that did not need medical attention. The victim then contacted the Richmond Police District who rushed to his residence. Authorities arrested a 39-year-old man and charged him with being armed with intent to commit an indictable offence, as well as assault occasioning to actual bodily harm and malicious damage. The suspect was granted a conditional bail, and is set to appear in court on April 15. Apple Devices Save Lives This is not the first time an Apple device saved the life of its owner. In 2015, an iPhone also saved the life of a 24-year-old student who fought with a mugger as the latter tried to take away his computer bag. The mugger pulled out a gun and a struggle ensued until the gun went off. Fortunately, the bullet hit the iPhone in the student's front pocket, leaving him unharmed. Another life was saved when a MacBook Pro allegedly protected a man's life in a Florida shooting in 2017. The gunman entered into an airport, pulled out a gun, and opened fire at unsuspecting victims. The MacBook Pro owner heard the gunshots and took cover, allowing his backpack to act like a "tortoise shell." He managed to survive the shooting with the help of the laptop. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Dozens of unvaccinated students from the Green Meadow Waldorf School will remain at home amid the current countywide measles outbreak. A federal judge in New York has ruled not to issue a temporary injunction that would have allowed 44 children to return to class. "The plaintiffs have not demonstrated that public interest weighs in favor of granting an injunction," stated U.S. District Judge Vincent Briccetti. Rockland County Grapples With Biggest Measles Outbreak In Years In December, public health officials of Rockland County ordered that unvaccinated children in schools where the vaccination rate is less than 95 percent should stay at home. The decision was made in an effort to control the measles outbreak, which began in late September when an international traveler arrived back home with the highly contagious disease. Green Meadow Waldorf School in Chestnut Ridge was affected by the order. According to The Rockland/Westchester Journal News, the school has a 33 percent vaccination rate when the ban was set in place. The exclusion of unvaccinated from attending class will end if no new cases of measles have been reported in the area within 21 days. As of Thursday, March 14, the number of confirmed cases of measles in Rockland County has risen to 147. The majority of the patients are within the age range of 4 to 18 years old. Anti-Vax Parents Push Back Families of parents of the Green Meadow Waldorf School students affected by the ban filed a suit against the Rockland Health Department and its commissioner, Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert. The suit claims that the ban violates the families' religious objections to vaccinations. Moreover, they argued that there have been no confirmed cases of measles in the Green Meadow Waldorf School. "Preventing my child from being with his class, his teacher, his classroom, has had a significant social and psychological impact," said one of the parents whose child, a preschooler, was barred from coming to school. "He is confused, given his young age, about why he isn't allowed on his campus." Rockland County Attorney Thomas Humbach stated that, while the situation is less than ideal, the Dec. 5 ban has been effective so far. It has prevented the measles outbreak from reaching the school. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine has proposed the use of commercial rockets for next year's launch of Orion spacecraft on a trip around the Moon. He explained to a Senate committee that the Space Launch System or SLS, the space agency's own multibillion-dollar rocket, will not be ready for launch any time soon. The SLS has been in development for the past decade. NASA Turning To Commercial Rockets Orion is a spacecraft designed to take astronauts to destinations in deep space. Its first flight, the Exploration Mission-1 or simply EM-1, is scheduled to take place by June 2020. The uncrewed spacecraft will fly around the Moon for six days, with a total mission duration of three weeks. The EM-1 is supposed to be the SLS' grand debut. However, the heavy-lift rocket has endured several delays and budget overruns in the past couple of years. If NASA wants to get back on track and launch the spacecraft by next year, they will have to abandon the SLS for the meantime and turn to commercial rockets. However, while there are commercial rockets that are ready to fly ASAP, making the switch will not be easy. A New Way To Explore Space Bridenstine acknowledged that the Orion spacecraft and the European Service Module will be too heavy for any commercial rockets that are now in use. He proposed to split the mission into two stages: a rocket will launch the Orion and the European Service Module in orbit around the Earth and then another rocket will launch an upper stage separately that will boost the spacecraft into the Moon. Dallas Bienhoff, the founder of the Cislunar Space Development Company, explained that the process will be like a tractor pulling farm equipment. The idea of the space tug, which NASA has been studying since the 60s, could change the way the space agency launches its deep space missions in the future. "One of the issues that we have as a space industry, which has led us to the Space Launch System, is we insist on putting all of the mass per mission on a single launch," said Bienhoff to The Verge. NASA has so far spent $14 billion to develop the SLS and it is expected to cost $1 billion per launch. The SLS, if it ever gets completed, will be powerful enough to carry heavy payload to space, but commercial rockets are the cheaper alternative. SpaceX's Falcon Heavy launches at about $100 million while United Launch Alliance's Delta IV Heavy costs around $350 million per flight. The second stage will also be something that the space agency needs to consider before switching to commercial rockets. The upper-stage rocket has to meet with the Orion and the European Service Module in orbit, but the docking technology needed for this to work does not exist yet. If NASA pulls it off, it could lead to a future in which critical components will be launched one by one to be assembled in-space, foregoing the need for bigger rockets. "By spreading the equipment over a couple of launches, and then using in-space manufacturing and assembly, we can actually accomplish this in a much more cost-effective way than if we launched that sort of monolithic spacecraft," added Andrew Rush, CEO and president of Made In Space. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Conservationists believe that the animal carcass they discovered in the Vaquita Refuge was a vaquita porpoise. The creatures are critically endangered, with possibly less than 10 alive. Illegal Fishing Gear Patrol On March 12, two Sea Shepherd ships were on patrol in the Vaquita Refure for possible illegal fishing gear. When sea conditions finally allowed them to go back to the targeted location to remove the net, they found some wildlife entangled in the net including the carcass of a white animal. Some of the team assumed that is was a totoaba fish, which are the target species for the illegal nets in the first place. They are often caught and their swim bladders are sold in the black market for Asian medicinal soup. Unfortunately, this also causes problems for other marine creatures such as vaquita porpoises, and in fact in 2015, the team documented 36 marine mammals trapped in illegal gillnets. Vaquita Porpoise In the case of the unidentified white animal, it was already clearly dead when the team found it, as it no longer had a head and was already in a state of decomposition. Despite this, the team believes that it might be a vaquita porpoise, which is one of the most endangered marine mammal in the world. In fact, should it turn out to be a vaquita porpoise, it might have been one of just six to 22 of the species left. So far, primary photographs of the creature sent to marine mammal experts confirm that its length and morphology matches that of a vaquita porpoise, but DNA analysis is required to confirm this. Gillnets Unfortunately, there is a rumor going around that gillnets are not dangerous to vaquita porpoises and other cetaceans, but that is not the case. In fact, among the 36 marine animals documented to be trapped by gillnets in 2015, nine of which were cetaceans and only one was saved, a juvenile humpback whale. In the case of the critically endangered vaquitas, there have been previously confirmed cases of the animals having died from entanglement in gillnets, but this was the first case in which the creature was still in the gillnet upon discovery. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Manufacturers have come up with a number of ways to get rid of smartphone bezels: Apple put a notch up top, Samsung punched a hole, Vivo removed the selfie camera and made it into a popup, and Oppo made a sliding phone. Samsung knows all those solutions are just stopgaps toward what's eventually a smartphone with zero bezels, and it's already working hard to make it real. As Yonhap News Agency reports, Samsung's display R&D VP Yang Byung-duk notes that while a "full-screen" smartphone might not be possible in the next two years, there's a chance technology will have progressed to the point where manufacturers can make the front-facing camera essentially invisible. Samsung Working On Full-Screen Display The executive's comments come less than a month after Samsung unveiled its latest flagship device, the Galaxy S10, which has what's called an Infinity-O Display, with a "punch hole" camera cutout on the top corner instead of the notch. While Yang regards the Infinity-O display as a milestone for Samsung, he notes that the company plans to put the camera underneath the display eventually, which would remove the need for cutouts or for that matter, popup cameras and sliding mechanisms such as those used by Vivo and Oppo. Release Date Long story short, Samsung wants to be the first company to create a screen that genuinely has no bezels surrounding it. But despite this ambition, it's become rare for the company to become the first in anything. It wasn't the first to release a phone with an in-display fingerprint sensor, and it wasn't even the first to come up with the punch hole display design Huawei sub-brand Honor got there first with its View 20 phone. Yang doesn't say when Samsung's full-screen display might arrive, except that it's definitely not coming in the next one or two years. Which is all to say it's anyone guess when it could come. Then again, a rival company could get there first, as what's happened before. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. New research shows that U.S. safety net hospitals could benefit substantially from a new model that accounts for social risk factors like poverty and living in a disadvantaged neighborhood in determining how the federal government penalizes hospitals financially for their readmission rates. Researchers say their risk adjustment model could reduce the financial penalty for at least half of all safety net hospitals, which care for patients regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay. And in some cases, it could render them free from any penalty. Conversely, more affluent hospitals - those that care for higher-income, better-educated patients - could see their penalty for readmission rates increase. The study, published online in Health Services Research and due out in print in April, is certain to intensify the debate of the equity of Medicare's Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program, or HRRP. The program, administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, creates financial incentives for hospitals for lowering their readmission rates by penalizing those with higher rates. Safety net hospitals have long held they are unfairly penalized for their readmission rates under HRRP's current performance model because it doesn't account for social risk factors that put these patients at risk for readmission. "Our study shows how accounting for social risk can have a significant positive financial impact on safety net hospitals," says David Nerenz, Ph.D., the study's senior author and director emeritus of the Center for Policy and Health Services Research at Henry Ford Health System in Detroit. "And we can do so without compromising quality of care." A commentary accompanying the study concluded that researchers provided "new evidence that incorporating social risk into risk-adjustment models may help by sparing hospitals serving the most vulnerable patients dire financial straits and perhaps even allowing them to flourish in meeting their underlying mission." The findings demonstrate for the first time the feasibility and impact of adjusting for social factors and financial penalties for HRPP readmissions. The HRPP has been the focus of debate for its exclusion of risk adjustment for social factors since the policy's implementation in 2012. A 2016 study examining the potential impact of adding adjustment for patient income found little "meaningful change" in readmission rates, though it did not assess the financial impact of the adjustment. Under the 21st Century Cures Act, Congress now requires CMS to assign hospitals to five peer groups based on patients' Medicaid status in assessing penalties under HRPP. Karen Joynt Maddox, M.D., MPH, the study's lead author and assistant professor of Medicine in the Cardiovascular Division at Washington University's School of Medicine in Missouri, says the study suggests that adjusting for social risk factors "has potential for leveling the playing field for hospitals that serve the most vulnerable patients." "HRPP penalties cost safety net hospitals millions of dollars each year, but aren't a fair reflection of their performance," Dr. Maddox says. "Adding social risk factors to risk adjustment would be a significant step towards a more equitable program." For their retrospective study, researchers analyzed claims data from nearly 3 million fee-for-service Medicare patients hospitalized for heart attack, congestive heart failure or pneumonia from December 2012 to November 2015. Their analytic approach was three-pronged: Incorporated a broader group of social risk factors than analyzed in other prior research. Compared hospital performance on readmissions with and without adjustment for social risk factors. Calculated the financial impact of penalties levied against hospitals after adjusting for social risk factors. Researchers found that social risk factors like poverty, disability and living in a disadvantaged neighborhood were linked with higher readmissions in all three medical conditions. However, when adjusted for social risk factors, the readmission rates for safety net hospitals dropped significantly for all three medical conditions compared to their affluent counterpart hospitals. More striking, the changes translated to a "major shift" in assessed penalties: Safety net hospitals saw a 21.8 percent reduction in penalties, or roughly $17 million. Affluent hospitals saw a 22 percent increase in penalties, or roughly $15 million. Mat Reidhead, vice president of Research and Analytics at the Missouri Hospital Association and a study co-author, says the risk-adjusted model used in the study provides meaningful evidence of the magnitude of penalties levied against safety net hospitals. "Failing to account for differences in the social complexity of patients hospitals care for has stripped significant resources away from our safety net," Reidhead says. "These are resources that could have been directed toward clinical quality improvement or upstream community health interventions. And while the recent intercession of Congress is certainly a step in the right direction, our findings suggest more can be done to ensure equity in the readmissions reduction program." @ 2021 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. When Maegan Adkins-Barras watched a video of a fight that happened at Acadiana High School, she instantly felt sick to her stomach. The video, which her son obtained from another student, showed a fight in which a teenage boy's head hit a concrete bench on the school's campus. The 32-year-old mom of three worried about injuries the boy suffered as a result of the fight. Adkins-Barras knows all too well what a traumatic head injury can do to a person. Her husband, Joshua, has been in a vegetative state since November because of one, and she considers it to be "worse than death." That's why she decided to post the video to her personal Facebook page to show how violent the fight at her son's school was. "I posted it as a concerned parent because of my son and my husband," Adkins-Barras said. "This isn't the first video of a fight I've seen, but that fight jumped out at me because of how severe it was. That could have been my child." She never expected to spend the night in jail the same place where her husband suffered self-inflicted brain trauma three months earlier for expressing her concerns online. Now, almost a month later, she is considering suing law enforcement for allegedly violating her civil rights. Mom who posted video of school fight released from jail; lawyers weigh in A Broussard moms civil rights may have been violated Wednesday when police arrested her for posting a video to social media that shows a figh A call from the school Adkins-Barras had no idea life as she knew it would change after her 14-year-old son shared a video with her of a Feb. 19 fight at Acadiana High School. Her son, a freshman at the school, obtained the video from another student on the social media app, Snapchat. (Early reports that her son recorded the fight were inaccurate, according to Adkins-Barras and the police report.) Like so many parents in 2019, the mother took to social media to share her feelings about the video. These are the words Adkins-Barras wrote when she posted the video, according to the report prepared by law enforcement for the district attorney's office: "This was at our local High School today. This should NOT be happening. Why do we have to worry so much about our kids at SCHOOL? Listen to his head hitting the concrete bench. I Can't Even." The capitalization emphasis is hers. She also included a "feeling concerned" tag with her Facebook post and an angry face emoji before the final sentence. She shared the video and words with her Facebook friends initially, but she said she changed her privacy settings to public at the request of others who wanted to share the post. "The mom whose son hit his head thanked me for posting the video," Adkins-Barras said. "She had no idea how hard he'd hit his head until she saw it, and she took him to another doctor the next day." That was Feb. 20, which is also the day an Acadiana High school resource officer with the Scott Police Department learned about the infamous video, according to a police report sent to Keith Stutes, district attorney for the 15th Judicial Court District. Adkins-Barras said she received a call from the school because law enforcement wanted to question her son about the fight but needed her to be present since he is a minor. "When I got there, I realized they weren't questioning my son," Adkins-Barras said. "They already had the arrest affidavit, and they read me my rights." Her video had disappeared from Facebook by the time she arrived at the school. Although the police report said Adkins-Barras removed it herself, she denied this and said someone reported it and Facebook removed it. The resource officer handcuffed Adkins-Barras on the campus and told her she was under arrest for "unlawful posting of criminal activity for notoriety and publicity." Adkins-Barras told the officer she could not go to the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center because her husband tried to hang himself there, according to the police report. She was booked in the jail anyway. "That was the hardest part," Adkins-Barras said, allowing a sob escape before speaking again. "That was the hardest part about everything." Mom who posted video of fight at Acadiana High won't be prosecuted, Lafayette DA says The Acadiana High School mother who posted a video of a fight last week on the school's campus won't be prosecuted, Keith Stutes, district att A night in jail Adkins-Barras said she became physically ill when she learned she would be going to the place where her husband, Joshua, attempted suicide in November. "I just didn't want to go in. I just didn't want to be there," Adkins-Barras said. "It was just a constant reminder of what happened. All I could ask myself is, 'What was he thinking? What happened?'" Joshua Barras tried to hang himself Nov. 2 by using a shoestring tied to the handicap rail in a bathroom, according to an incident report from the jail. He was serving time for illegal possession of Xanax, a prescription sedative used to treat anxiety, court records show. Jail staff who found him were able to save Joshua's life, but he suffered brain trauma from oxygen deprivation. Adkins-Barras said she was treated like "some kind of criminal" when she shouldn't have been in jail to begin with. Top stories in Acadiana in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up "I was throwing up and sick and had the worst headache, and they'd just walk past," she said. "Right when I got there, they made me put on the orange jumpsuit. And I asked why, and they said I wouldn't have a bond until later. I kept asking why I couldn't get a bond. I didn't want to go upstairs. I had a mattress on the floor. All night long that's what I had." She was booked into the jail Feb. 20 and released from custody the next day. That's when she realized her photo and the details surrounding her arrest had been posted to the Scott Police Department's Facebook page and made local and national headlines. Adkins-Barras tried to make sense of it all as messages from friends, family and strangers poured in. She reassured her children, who stayed with family after her arrest, that everything was going to be OK. "My little ones told me they saw the news and were scared I was going to stay in jail forever," Adkins-Barras said. Her oldest, the freshman at Acadiana High, had a different reaction. He's been in "defensive mode" since her arrest because his classmates have been talking about his mother, she said. "My son was all mad and felt guilty because he thought it was all his fault," Adkins-Barras said. "I can see why he'd feel that way, but I've had to explain to him it's not his fault. Of course, I didn't get to talk to him about it for a while because I was in jail." Our Views: An apology is owed to mom arrested for social media post With a sound decision from District Attorney Keith Stutes, an Acadiana High School mother wont be prosecuted because she posted a video of a A potential civil rights lawsuit Adkins-Barras said she's spent the last few weeks defending herself, her husband and children. Her controversial arrest sparked widespread speculation that her civil rights may have been violated because the law she was charged with breaking appears to only apply to someone who was involved in the criminal activity that was the focus of the video. On Feb. 26, Stutes, Lafayette's district attorney, announced his office would not prosecute the case because "the circumstances do not support the proof necessary to establish all of the elements of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt." When asked Monday if she was planning to file a civil rights lawsuit against the Scott Police Department for unlawful arrest, Adkins-Barras replied, "I think so." "I'm just a mom and a wife," she said. "I don't understand the lawyer aspect of it all, but that arrest went everywhere to the point where people are digging into my personal life and Josh's personal life, and I don't find it to be fair because I didn't do anything wrong to where my face should be everywhere." Adkins-Barras is represented by Lafayette lawyers Kevin Stockstill and L. Clayton Burgess and California lawyer Brian Carlin. Her legal team postponed interviews twice and did not respond to questions sent via email Thursday morning for this story. Adkins-Barras said she hasn't heard from anyone at the Scott Police Department since her arrest. Scott Police Chief Chad Leger has not responded since February to calls and emails, including questions sent in writing to him and his agency's lawyer for this story. +2 Mom arrested for posting video of student fight questions school's post about cellphone ban Maegan Adkins-Barras, the Acadiana High School mom who was arrested for posting a video of a student fight on social media, is questioning a M A chance to help her husband Adkins-Barras has used her time in the spotlight to raise more money for her husband's recovery through a fundraiser she created before her arrest. She is hoping to raise $9,000 through GoFundMe.com for hyperbaric oxygen treatments that reportedly helped a man walk and talk again after spending six months in a coma. "He hasn't shown any progress because he hasn't gotten any help," Adkins-Barras said. "The nursing home doesn't treat that kind of thing." The relationship between Joshua and Adkins-Barras hasn't been perfect. He has had multiple arrests related to drugs and domestic violence. But she is determined to help him. Adkins-Barras said she visits her husband every day at the nursing home in New Iberia. "I love him," she said. "Ive never given up on him before. I wouldn't want anyone to just give up on me. Hes always been breathing since they found him, so obviously hes been alive for a reason. I just believe he can be cured if hes given a second chance." Advocate readers may submit stories of about 500 words to The Human Condition at features@theadvocate.com or The Advocate, EatPlayLive, 10705 Rieger Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70809. There is no payment, and stories will be edited. Authors should include their city of residence, and, if writing about yourself, a photo. Two groups one created by the mayor and the governor, the other consisting of tourism and business leaders working behind the scenes are zeroing in on sources of money that could help address the New Orleans Sewerage & Water Boards immediate and long-term spending needs. Members of both groups say many decisions remain, but they believe that by the end of the month they can find ways to raise most though not all of the money that Mayor LaToya Cantrell wants for the beleaguered agency. If they are correct, that would deliver a high-profile victory for Cantrell less than a year after she took office and would validate her politically risky move to challenge the tourism industry publicly, while others said she should have engaged in quiet persuasion instead. A deal also would be a victory for Gov. John Bel Edwards in a year that he is seeking re-election against two Republican opponents. Cantrell began demanding a diversion of dollars from tourism to the S&WB in October, a move that rattled hospitality industry leaders and led to public strife between the two sides. Edwards decided he ought to help her effort, elected officials and business leaders said privately, both because of New Orleans overall importance to Louisiana and because it offered him a chance to show business and hospitality leaders that he can lead effectively only months before voters will decide whether he deserves a second term. New Orleans will provide an important base of voters for him in that election. The 22-member working group created by Edwards and Cantrell has been meeting with the governors staff to identify available federal or state money to pay for repairs aimed at preventing more costly and embarrassing boil-water advisories in New Orleans as well as preventing a heavy rain from again flooding parts of the city, as last happened in 2017 while Mitch Landrieu was mayor. Cantrell is seeking $35 million to upgrade some S&WB machinery and another $40 million to pay overdue bills owed to contractors and to cover some emergency road repairs. The 2017 flooding exposed serious deficiencies at the S&WB. Landrieu depleted the agencys reserves to fix the biggest problems. A dozen people involved in the latest behind-the-scenes discussions say they think the two groups can deliver about $50 million of the $75 million in one-time money that Cantrell is seeking. They would cobble it together from a variety of sources including federal money, a small portion of the $235 million in reserves held by the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, a tax on short-term rentals in New Orleans and altering the structure of taxes on hotel guests. Any agreement would include an initial offer by tourism leaders that Cantrell rejected as inadequate by itself: reinstating a 0.55 percent sales tax on hotel rooms that just expired. That would provide $6.7 million a year to the city. Its not clear whether the hospitality industry will accept a recommendation of the Bureau of Governmental Research, a nonpartisan group that in January called for giving the city an additional 1 percentage point of the sales tax now charged on hotel rooms. This would provide $12.3 million per year to the city. I think well (agree on a plan) by the 28th, said one member of the mayor's and governor's working group, who spoke on condition of anonymity. The group is scheduled to meet next on March 28 in Baton Rouge, and Edwards is planning to attend, which could be a sign of an impending announcement. The governor has involved many of his top advisers, including his chief of staff, Mark Cooper, and executive counsel, Matthew Block, in the effort. Members of both groups want to find a solution before the two-month legislative session begins on April 8. Some of the money for the overall solution will likely require legislative approval, but those involved emphasize that the money would primarily be paid by visitors to Orleans Parish, not by Louisiana citizens. Besides the one-time payment, Cantrell also has been seeking $40 million in annual revenue to help pay for the S&WBs operations. Sources said she is likely to get $20 million to $25 million. Apparently, a chunk of this money would come with the blessing of the hospitality industry. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up If the city obtains enough money to satisfy Cantrell now, business and hospitality industry leaders have indicated privately that they could assist the mayor in trying to win voter approval to institute a drainage fee on all properties in the city including those owned by nonprofits to provide additional money for the S&WB on an ongoing basis. The fee could raise $40 million per year. Business leaders said they are insisting that city officials establish safeguards to ensure that the extra money Cantrell is seeking for the S&WB would be spent as promised. The real importance of the business groups is to figure out how they can work with the city and provide an oversight, said one business leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Key members of the working group convened by Cantrell and Edwards include Bill Hammack, a co-owner of the Link Restaurant Group; Paul Flower, CEO of Woodward Design+Build; and Leslie Jacobs, who owned an insurance agency and has long played a leading role in education policy-making. Members of the group of tourism leaders include Stephen Perry, president and CEO of New Orleans & Co., the organization that promotes New Orleans as a site for conventions and group visits; Darryl Berger, a prominent hotel developer who chairs the New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corp.; and Melvin Rodrigue, who runs Galatoires restaurant and chairs the Convention Center board. Also participating are Gregory Rusovich, CEO of Transoceanic Trading and Development Co. and immediate past chairman of the board of New Orleans & Co.; Michael Hecht, president and CEO of Greater New Orleans Inc.; and Jim Cook, general manager of the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel. John Pourciau, the mayors chief of staff, has been Cantrells point person in all of the discussions. The mayors and governors offices declined comment on the talks. Perry, who is leading the group of hospitality and business leaders, said he has been in a series of meetings over the past two months, including one on Tuesday with Edwards and Convention Center officials. He said hospitality leaders want to do their part but can only do so much. Its about making sure the solutions to problems do not impair the growth of tourism the (city's) No. 1 economic driver while getting the S&WB healthy and starting the long-term care of infrastructure. We share those goals with her, Perry said in an interview. In January, Perry raised Cantrells ire by questioning the citys ability to effectively spend any tax dollars redirected from the tourism industry, given its problems like a high crime rate, dirty streets in the French Quarter and the S&WB's well-publicized failings. Perry said his comments were not directed at Cantrell, whom he praised for attempting to solve the S&WBs financial woes. Its not a battle between us and this mayor, he said. One key player in getting one-time money from the Convention Center will be state Senate President John Alario, R-Westwego, who on Friday said he had yet to be included in the discussions and who voiced his concern about diverting tax money. The money needs to be reinvested for what it was originally intended: to create jobs and bring in tourists, he said. But other legislators were optimistic that all parties could come together. Ive been impressed by everyones coming together to come to the table to find a solution, said state Rep. Royce Duplessis, D-New Orleans, a member of the mayor's and governor's working group. St. Charles Parish President Larry Cochran was slapped with impaired-driving charges Friday after he failed to complete a diversion program that has kept him from being prosecuted since his arrest in Kenner more than a year ago. Cochran, who could face jail time if convicted, said in a statement he decided to drop out of the program so he could undergo medical procedures for injuries he suffered in a separate motorcycle accident last year. The program he started in February 2018 requires participants, each time they want to drive, to blow into a device that prevents intoxicated people from starting cars. They also must undergo counseling, take drug and alcohol tests and meet with a Mothers Against Drunk Driving panel. Participants usually have only six months to complete the program or face charges. But it appears Cochran received more time after he was thrown off a motorcycle that he was teaching his daughter how to drive in April 2018. The parish president was hospitalized with broken bones and missed some time from work. He and his daughter, who had minor injuries, were cited for traffic violations following the accident. "This decision did not come lightly," Cochran said of leaving the diversion program. "However, it is one that I needed to make, so I can take ownership of the incident, allowing me and my family to move past it, and to also finish receiving medical treatment needed to fully recover." Cochran was arrested for intoxicated driving on Sept. 2, 2017, when Kenner police stopped him near his secretary's home after receiving a call that his Chevy Tahoe was swerving and going onto the neutral ground on Joe Yenni Boulevard. An officer at the scene said Cochran performed poorly on a field sobriety test and had bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. He was also accused of making unusual remarks, telling officers, I guess this means I should fill out my resignation papers, and biting off the mouthpiece of a device used for breath alcohol tests. While the breath test administered to Cochran did not detect any alcohol, Kenner police suspected he was on drugs and booked him on counts of driving while intoxicated and reckless driving. The results of a blood test showed the presence of oxycodone, hydrocodone and oxymorphone, all prescription drugs. Wiley Beevers, an attorney who represented Cochran at the time but has since died, said the parish president had been prescribed two of the drugs because of surgeries. Oxymorphone is a byproduct of oxycodone, said Beevers, who asserted that Cochran had stopped taking the medications for several days before the traffic stop and had not been driving recklessly. Cochran was released from jail soon after his arrest due to overcrowding. Jefferson Parish District Attorney's Office spokesman Paul Purpura said Friday he couldnt comment on the charges, citing a policy against discussing open cases. But participants in the pre-trial diversion program Cochran was enrolled in are only charged when they fail to complete the regimen. Only two of the nine St. Charles Parish Council members could be reached Friday. One, Councilman Paul Hogan, immediately called for Cochran's resignation. It is about time we hear something about this case that many of my constituents believed had been swept under the rug, Hogan said in a statement. It is unfortunate that Parish President Cochran failed to take advantage of the opportunity that he was provided to address the poor decision he made the night he was arrested. Hogan, who has been an outspoken critic of Cochran's, also complained about the parish president's decision to enter an expensive lease for a parish boat launch, said Cochran had an overall lack of transparency and said he repeatedly failed to communicate with the council on business matters. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up I would hope that Parish President Cochran would see the damage he has inflicted on our parish on numerous levels and that he would come to the realization that our parish would be better served if he were to step down from office, Hogan added. Should that not occur, the residents of our parish will have the opportunity to take action as they see fit in the upcoming election this year. Councilman Terrell Wilson, the only other council member to return a call, said he was caught off-guard by the news and didnt know enough about the charges to comment on them. Cochran, who previously served as the Parish Council chairman and was elected parish president in November 2015, is up for re-election in October. He has previously resisted calls to resign following his arrest. On Friday, he said St. Charles Parish government "will continue to conduct business as usual." Hogan said he didn't plan on drafting a formal resolution asking for Cochran's resignation. It wasn't clear if any other council members would, or if it would have the votes to pass. Even if it did, it would be non-binding, according to political analyst Clancy DuBos. It doesnt have the force of law, but it does express their will, DuBos said about such resolutions, adding that, in this case, it would look very politicized as they come into election season. St. Charles is governed by a home rule charter, which mandates that the parish president step down if he is convicted of a felony. Cochrans DUI was his first offense, so is a misdemeanor charge, according to the Jefferson Parish DA's Office. Should Cochran refuse a call to resign, voters could attempt a recall, which would require a petition with signatures from 25 percent of the parish's qualified voters. A recall is very difficult in Louisiana, DuBos said. Hes up for re-election this fall, which is faster than a recall anyway. Cochran faces one count each of driving while intoxicated and reckless operation of a motor vehicle, according to the bill of information filed in Metairies 1st Parish Court. It is unclear if he has a new attorney. His arraignment is set for April 29. "I am deeply sorry for the negativity or embarrassment that this has brought to our community, parish employees, and most of all to my family and friends," Cochran said. New options, new problems Another screening option has become available to women over the past few years: non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS). NIPS can provide a more accurate and earlier result, at 10 weeks, about the likelihood of the foetus having Down syndrome. It is still only available privately and costs around $500. An application from the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia and Roche Diagnostics Australia Pty Ltd for the inclusion of NIPS on the Medical Benefits Schedule (MBS) is currently sitting with the federal Medical Services Advisory Committee (MSAC) for consideration. MSAC will make a recommendation to the minister for health about whether access to NIPS should be publicly funded and in what circumstances. A robotic genomic testing machine at work in California. Credit:New York Times Despite a consultation period where the views of health professionals and organisations such as Down Syndrome Australia have been put forward, there has been little public debate about this possible change. Significantly, there is no commitment that womens choices about wanted pregnancies will be supported with accurate information about Down syndrome, information beyond the chromosome count. The marketing material offered by test providers gives scant detail about what a life with Down syndrome might be like, but the message is clear: a positive result for trisomy 21 is undesirable. As Charlotte Fien, a woman with Down syndrome, recently observed when she addressed the United Nations: "They think the world will be better without people like me." But the future is brighter than ever before for people with Down syndrome. Many are fully included in mainstream education, attend university, hold down jobs, live independently and find love. In 2011, research led by Dr Brian Skotko, medical geneticist and co-director of the Down Syndrome Program at Massachusetts General Hospital, found 99 per cent of participants with Down syndrome were happy with their lives. Advancing technology means that health problems like heart conditions, affecting about half of all babies born with Down syndrome, can be corrected soon after birth. And Down syndrome is just the beginning. What would it mean if a genetic test were made available for autism? Do we really want to live in a world where difference is eradicated? The lesson of a Post-it note A few months ago when I was sorting through a drawer at home I found a Post-it note inside the case holding Gretas ultrasound DVD. Scrawled in my handwriting were two sets of numbers. It took me a second to realise what I was looking at. These were the first trimester screening results which I had jotted down when the call had come through from the ultrasound practice. Next to these numbers, I had written three words the receptionist had said when she told me the results. I cringed as I read them: "Fantastic. Low Risk." I passed the yellow note to my normally unflappable partner. He flinched, passed it straight back to me and said: "Throw it out." Elizabeth Callinan and Brett Murphy with their children Greta, Rory and Jasper. Credit:Eddie Jim I wanted to keep it. It is a reminder of how far I have come. How much I have learnt. It is also a reminder to go easy on others. I have been immersed in the world of Down syndrome for more than a year. I am familiar with the language - and why some is likely to offend. Im still not sure of the best response to the commen, "They are always so happy, arent they?" But I was on the other side not that long ago. This Post-it note is evidence that things can be different, understanding can grow and change is possible. Like me, most women navigating prenatal screening have no close connection to a person with Down syndrome. They dont know what an additional 21st chromosome really means. They just know it is to be screened out. When their results come back "low risk", they breathe a sigh of relief and carry on with their lives. But what about when they receive a result indicating a higher likelihood of Down syndrome? Are presumptions being made in consulting rooms about whether a life is worth living? Down Syndrome Australia CEO Dr Ellen Skladzien has been advocating for a national education program for GPs as well as access to genetic counselling for parents who receive a high-chance result from prenatal screening. She says: "There is an urgent need to ensure families have access to balanced information about what it is really like to have a child with Down syndrome. It is unethical to conduct screening programs without access to appropriate information and counselling." I wonder what the wider use of non-invasive prenatal testing and other genetic technologies means for our acceptance of and understanding of difference those differences that are the subject of screening and those that are not? And can we really call it choice, this hard-won right, if women are left to make decisions about continuing pregnancies based on incomplete and inaccurate information? Dr Ellen Skladzien, second from right, of Down Syndrome Australia with members of the Down Syndrome Advisory Network in Sydney. Credit:Leticia Hodson The business of screening For-profit genetic testing companies are big business and growing. One such company, Genea, was sold in August 2018 to a Hong Kong consortium for a reported $300 million. Pathology companies heavily market their screening services to pregnant women. How are they ensuring that the decisions women make based on their screening results are supported by accurate and balanced information? As Dr Elizabeth Oliver, a GP in NSW, wrote in an October 2018 article: I am not diminishing the unimaginable challenge of raising a child with a disability, or moving one iota from a woman's right to choose. My concern is that the net with which we detect "problems" is thrown wider each year, with a view to generating profit, and seemingly without our notice. No matter where one stands on this issue, can we at least agree that it is serious? Not long after Olivers article was published, New Scientist magazine reported that the company Genomic Prediction had developed a genetic screen to assess the "risk" of low intelligence in IVF embryos. The company is in talks with several IVF clinics in the US with a view to providing this service to customers. The firms co-founder, Professor Stephen Hsu, said: "I think people are going to demand that. If we dont do it, some other company will." A look at Hsu's Twitter account casts an interesting light on this remark. In his pinned tweet, Hsu as a teenage graduate stands shoulder-to-shoulder with world-famous physicist Richard Feynman, who among many other achievements was a key member of the Manhattan Project to develop the atomic bomb - a classic case of "if we dont do it, someone else will". The Twitter account of physicist and Genomic Prediction co-founder Stephen Hsu shows Hsu at his graduation with world-famous theoretical physicist Richard Feynman. Credit:Twitter In an interview the month prior to this announcement, Hsu responded to the question of whether society was ready for new genetic technology, saying: "Everyone would be better off because the medical resources will be allocated much more efficiently in the future than they are today." Discussions between the Jordanian King and senior US government officials focused on bilateral relations and the Middle East issues. According to a statement from the White House, US Vice President Mike Pence talked with King Abdullah II on the fight against the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS) and the conflicts in the region. The two sides touched on President Trumps decision on the maintenance of a number of US troops in Syria. In fact, Jordan is considered an effective partner of the US in the fight against terrorism. Having a shared borderline with Syria, Jordan inevitably suffers from the influx of refugees, as well as the stalking terrorist risks. Jordans economy has been heavily affected by the burden of Syrian migrants. More than 650,000 Syrian people have registered to take refuge with the United Nations body in Jordan since 2011, while the Jordanian government estimated that the country has received nearly 1.3 million refugees from Syria and spent more than US$10 billion to support them so far. Syrias neighbouring kingdom has repeatedly complained about the burden on its infrastructure and its limited resources in receiving refugees. Therefore, Jordan needs support from the international community, especially from the US, in sharing the responsibility of supporting Syrian refugees. After President Trump announced the withdrawal of US troops from Syria, sources from the Middle East also revealed the construction of other US military bases in the region. The Syria-Iraq-Jordan junction is believed to be the place where the US is promoting the establishment of a strategic military base aiming to maintain its military presence in the Middle East and continue expanding its influence in such an important region. Despite having withdrawn troops from Syria, the US could not stop the fight against the IS. The threat from the extremist organisation has made Washington consider the possibility of maintaining a certain number of soldiers in Syria, as well as needing cooperation from Syrias neighbouring countries, including Jordan, in helping the US to stop the smuggling of weapons and the bringing of terrorists into Syria right from the gateways. At the mansion of the Jordanian Ambassador in Washington, King Abdullah II also had a 45-minute talk with President Trumps Middle East peace team, in the context that the White House is going to announce its long-promised peace plan aiming to deal with the Israel-Palestine conflict. Located right next to Palestine and also home to nearly 2.2 million Palestinian refugees, Jordan always wants to promote peace and stability in neighbouring Palestine. Jordan has announced its support for the two-state solution to resolve the Israel-Palestine conflict. Meanwhile, despite yet to be announced, President Trumps century agreement (the peace plan) has faced strong criticism from many countries, especially Palestine, following the US leaders recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The proposals made by the US in the peace plan have caused a lot of controversy. According to White House officials, the peace plan will focus on addressing the issues on the final rule, but not mention the establishment of a Palestinian State. Therefore, both Jordan and the US need to issue appropriate conducts to ensure the interests of both parties. Jordans important role contributes to geopolitical stability in the Middle East, making the kingdom one of the USs most important partners in the region. Promoting cooperation with Jordan helps the US have a stronger foothold, in the context of Washington currently promoting the withdrawal of troops from Syria but still wanting to maintain its presence in the heated Middle East region. The Canberra Muslim Community has condemned the "barbaric killings" at mosques in Christchurch and has called for respect and support. The wider community has rallied, placing flowers and notes outside mosques and the New Zealand High Commission in Canberra. Other religious leaders and politicians have expressed their sympathies directly to the Muslim community and in posts on social media. Flowers left at the New Zealand High Commission in Canberra after the terrorist attack in Christchurch on Friday. Credit:Elesa Kurtz A post on the Gungahlin Mosque Facebook page on Friday evening said the Canberra Muslim Community "condemns in the strongest possible terms the shootings and killing of innocent Muslims" in New Zealand. "We condemn terrorism in all its forms, regardless of its source, and that terrorism has no religion and no homeland." A GoFundMe page has raised more than $30,000 for the teen who egged Senator Fraser Anning on Saturday afternoon, but he plans to donate the majority towards victims of the Christchurch terror attack. 17-year-old Will Connolly (pictured) has received an outpouring of support after he smashed an egg on to the head of controversial politician Fraser Anning. And a separate petition on change.org calling for Senator Fraser Anning to be removed from parliament has amassed more than 1 million signatures in less than two days - a site record. The originator of the petition, Kate Ahmad, wrote Senator Anning had "no place in the government of our democratic and multicultural country". Will Connolly, the 17-year-old boy, has received an outpouring of support from around the world after he smashed an egg on to the head of the controversial politician as he spoke to media at a far-right rally in Moorabbin, Melbourne. Hundreds gathered in Melbourne on Saturday in a candlelight vigil for the victims of the Christchurch mosque shootings. Forty-nine prayer mats one for each death were laid out before State Library steps illuminated with candles. There were floral tributes, fronds of New Zealand's emblematic silver fern and hand-written messages. One said, "We stand with you. We grieve alongside you. Love will triumph. Kia Kaha." Several Melbourne imams recited from the Quran for the victims who never got to finish their Friday prayers. Early morning commuters crossing King George Square may wonder why Mozart's melodies blare aggressively from speakers at the crack of dawn. The Brisbane City Council introduced the classical music to the square in the heart of the CBD in 2012 but the practice was questioned this week. A council spokeswoman said the move followed complaints about anti-social behaviour in the area. But the homeless people who take shelter under the roofed section of the square have had to learn either to live with the racket or become fans of Bach and Beethoven. UPDATE A man has died in hospital overnight after being stabbed in Claremont on Tuesday afternoon. Police have charged a 46-year-old woman over the incident. A woman has been charged over the incident, which left the 57-year-old victim in a critical condition in a Perth hospital. Police on Saturday announced the man had died on Friday night, and said the 46-year-old woman's initial charge of intent to do grievous bodily harm may be reviewed pending the outcome of a Homicide Squad investigation. As first reported by WAtoday on Wednesday, the man was found at a house on Mount Street, Claremont about 4pm on Tuesday afternoon. Controversial Pilbara-wide liquor restrictions due to be implemented two weeks from now have been postponed while the WA Liquor Commission looks over several appeals. The restrictions, due to come into effect on March 31, cut the times alcohol could be sold in Pilbara towns and prohibited the sale of booze on a Sunday. The planned restrictions would severely limit the amount of alcohol that could be bought at Pilbara liquor stores. Credit:File photo They also took aim at packaging, banning the sale of cask wine and limiting beer to one carton per person per day. Residents could buy up to three bottles of wine a day each, but no fortified wine priced below $25 was to be sold. I will carry out and [sic] attack against the invaders, and will even live stream the attack via facebook Its been a long ride and despite all your rampant faggotry, fecklessness and degeneracy, you are all top blokes and the best bunch of cobbers a man could ask for. In his video, which bore a striking resemblance to a first-person shooter video game, he referenced a popular meme about a controversial YouTube star. Terrorism and ethno-nationalism is not new. But what is new is a thriving online ecosystem that connects and radicalises bigots the world over. Brenton Tarrant in custody. Credit:AAP Whitney Phillips, an expert on online communication at Syracuse University, says the ideology of hate, chaos, and manipulation is obvious and there needs to be increased scrutiny of its rampant spread across the internet, boosted by engagement from high-profile public figures. That environment is the story, she says, pointing to the importance of platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Reddit. Experts criticise the algorithms that incentivise and direct people to increasingly extreme content. Public scrutiny has previously focused on Islamic extremists' exploitation of the platforms. Loading Phillips argues Tarrants manifesto is calculated propaganda that must be quarantined. Its a trap, its all a trap, she says. Her warning about spreading the terrorists message after the attack also clashes with the news medias instinct to explore a criminal's background and motives information the audience is seeking out. But even as responsible platforms and outlets showed restraint and scrambled to contain Tarrants grotesque video, they could not stop it. The internet naturally favours agents of chaos, who exploit human nature and the torrential flow of information online. Shocking, violent and graphic content has no place on our platforms, says a spokesman for YouTube. And we are employing our technology and human resources to quickly review and remove any and all such violative content on YouTube. Loading The platform has removed thousands of versions of the video. Some are crafted to be more difficult to detect, amassing thousands of views before being removed. Mia Garlick, Facebooks director of policy in Australia and New Zealand, says the companys staff have been working around the clock to respond to reports and block content. They are targeting not only the vision itself but content that expresses support for the attack or spreads conspiracy theories about it. Australias eSafety commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, warned: Advanced tech can help with some detection and surfacing this content but it will likely still be a game of whack-a-mole. While mainstream services try to police the content, it remains available and unchecked in lesser-known and less accountable platforms. The reality is that regular people ignoring the advice of authorities can find it if they want to. And want it they do. On Friday afternoon, Google searches for the video went through the roof, according to data provided by the search engine. Christchurch shooting video". Full video Christchurch shooting". Christchurch shooting full live stream video". These and other variations continue to be searched en masse. With YouTube clamping down, people have actively sought out the video on more permissive sites. Searches peaked over Friday night and have remained consistently high into the weekend. Phillips says the issue of amplification extends beyond media outlets, with online users inadvertently playing a major part. Loading Citizens of good faith play an enormous role too it might feel right to comment on specific elements of the shooters manifesto in order to condemn, but that still triggers attention and algorithms, she contends. The human censors and artificial intelligence tools that digital platforms have developed to wipe out malicious user-generated content cannot cope with the scale of the problem. Joan Donovan, a researcher at the Shorenstein Centre on Media, Politics and Public Policy at Harvards Kennedy School, says platforms can do more. One step could be restricting the availability of a users content until it is marked as safe for sharing. Loading Instead, we have made the problem of chaos agents much worse by allowing them the freedom to broadcast mass shootings or manifestos without any understanding of who they may harm, she says. The eSafety commissioner says there must be greater investment in safety checks and balances at the design stage of social media tools like live streaming. Clearly, dark forums of the internet are not the only force behind this atrocity. These online trolls have fellow travellers in media and politics across the world. Traditional media outlets have provided platforms for hate. High-profile right-wing firebrands have provided cover for the fringe bigotry and often promoted it wholeheartedly. In his manifesto, Tarrant pointed to various figures that had inspired him. We have made the problem of chaos agents much worse by allowing them the freedom to broadcast mass shootings or manifestos without any understanding of who they may harm. Joan Donovan, researcher, Harvard In the wake of the attack, American radio host Rush Limbaugh promoted a conspiracy theory on air that the incident was a false flag, perpetrated by a leftist who writes the manifesto and then goes out and performs the deed purposely to smear his political enemies. That baseless theory does not exist in a vacuum. It has bloomed on the online message boards where Tarrant spent his time. While some users promote the theory, others have openly celebrated the attackers actions. As his anonymous fans continued to praise him on Saturday, Tarrant appeared in court. As he faced the first of many charges, he was smirking and made a white power hand gesture. Just another troll. Christchurch shooting suspect Brenton Tarrant was not known to NSW Police for radical political activity prior to the massacre on Friday and police have not detected any links to local extremist groups as they continue to investigate his background. His only contact with police in NSW was over minor traffic matters, Police Commissioner Michael Fuller said. Alleged Christchurch terror attack shooter Brenton Tarrant grew up in Grafton, NSW. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Opposition Leader Michael Daley suspended their election campaigns for the day on Saturday, with the premier declaring it "inappropriate" to continue on a day that the community should be pulling together. Standing alongside the Premier on Saturday morning, Commissioner Fuller said there were "no active threats to NSW" as a result of the shooting and the terrorist rating remained at "probable". Sydney's Opera House has lit up with The Silver Fern of New Zealand as a symbol solidarity and respect following the countrys worst act of terrorism. The Silver Fern of New Zealand is displayed on the Sydney Opera House as a show of support and respect for the people of New Zealand. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer Former NSW personal trainer Brenton Tarrant, 28, from Grafton, was on Saturday charged with one count of murder, but with 49 dead and 40 injured from his semiautomatic attack on two Christchurch mosques, more charges will follow. The gunman posted a 74-page "manifesto" online before the attack, and a 17-minute video was also uploaded of him arming himself and entering a mosque where he started shooting. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the display was aimed at demonstrating a "deep sense of unity and compassion" towards everyone affected by the attacks. The man accused of New Zealand's worst terror attack once described himself online as "just an ordinary white man". Brenton Harrison Tarrant was raised in Grafton in northern NSW, a town known for its Jacaranda Festival. Police search for explosive devices in Christchurch. Credit:George Heard/Stuff Security intelligence officers are piecing together a picture of Tarrant's background that includes travelling the world and sporadically spending time in Dunedin. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern didn't name the 28-year-old on Saturday but said the alleged gunman was an Australian citizen. It may have been New Zealand's darkest day, but leader Jacinda Ardern shone brightly. While her nine month old baby slept soundly at home, the world's youngest female head of government awoke to the nightmare of the toll of her nation's most deadly shooting. Like many, she had barely slept. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Adern meets with some of the Muslim community at the Hagley College after the Masjid Al Noor Mosque terror attack. Credit:Jason South. From the moment she was alerted of the shooter's Friday rampage in Christchurch, allegedly by a 28-year-old Australian, the 38-year-old Prime Minister was the picture of calm control. The gunman had been remanded in custody 36 minutes after police were alerted of his deadly spree, she said. By 9am on Saturday New Zealand time, she had vowed from Wellington to immediately tighten her nation's gun laws. "I can tell you right now our gun laws will change," she said. When Osama bin Laden orchestrated the September 11 attacks to inflict maximum damage and terror on the US and its allies, he not only took the engineering of the World Trade Centre towers and the fuel loads of the planes into account. He also factored in the medias capacity to send those images around the world and sear them into our memories. Omar Nabi, Yama's brother, holds a photo of their father, 71-year-old Haji Daoud who was killed in the Masjid Al Noor Mosque in Christchurch. Credit:Jason South The attacks took place in prime viewing time. They were staged on a cloudless late September morning at a location close to one of the most concentrated media hubs in the Western world: Downtown Manhattan. Nearly two decades later, terrorists no longer need the services of the mainstream media to document and broadcast their hate-fuelled crimes. With the aid of the internet and live video-streaming tools they can do it themselves. Which is precisely what the man who has been charged in the Christchurch terror attack did. Australian Brenton Tarrant was clearly very at home online. His live stream and his 74-page manifesto uploaded a day before his alleged murder spree were peppered with references to online identities and memes aimed at internet insiders. He even paused just before entering the first mosque to endorse a controversial YouTube star saying: Remember, lads, subscribe to PewDiePie." Bernie Sanders Cut His Head on Glass Shower Door, Received 7 Stitches 2020 Democratic presidential candidate and Independent Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders reportedly cut his head on a glass door and received seven stitches Friday morning. This morning, Sen. Sanders cut his head on the edge of a glass shower door. Out of precaution, he went to a walk-in clinic to have it checked out. He received seven stitches and was given a clean bill of health, the Sanders campaign said in a statement. Bernie Sanders cut his head on the edge of a shower door, received seven stitches, will continue with his schedule in South Carolina and Nevada, according to his campaign. Statement from an aide below: pic.twitter.com/uzuWl2jKDq Ruby Cramer (@rubycramer) March 15, 2019 The campaign also noted that despite the injury, Sanders proceeded with his scheduled events for the day and will still travel to Nevada for a campaign stop Saturday. (RELATED: Young Guns: Dems Could Have Five Candidates Over The Age Of 70) The [s]enator has proceeded with all of his scheduled events joining a group of approximately 20 local clergy for breakfast this morning and looks forward to joining a roundtable with South Carolinians this afternoon to discuss how we can provide high-quality affordable health care for all, the campaign said. He heads to Nevada this evening and looks forward to his rally in Henderson tomorrow. A photo of Sanders at the roundtable reveals a white patch over the area on the Senators forehead where he received stitches. Bernie Sanders now out a healthcare roundtable in Charleston, S.C. Prior to the event, campaign announced Sanders got 7 stitches after he cut his head on the edge of a glass shower door. He didnt mention his injury at the start of the roundtable. pic.twitter.com/U3THRP5IZd Rebecca Morin (@RebeccaMorin_) March 15, 2019 By Amber Athey U.S. Border Patrol agents search a vehicle that was sent to secondary inspection at a highway checkpoint in West Enfield, Maine on Aug. 1, 2018 . (Scott Eisen/Getty Images) Blair Mulling Ways to Close Loophole in Safe Third Country Agreement Border Security Minister Bill Blair says he is talking to lawmakers in the United States about closing a loophole in Canadas border agreement with the U.S.one seen as giving asylum-seekers reason to cross into Canada through fields and forests. Bill Blair 2019223 The Safe Third Country Agreement says asylum-seekers cannot claim refugee protection in Canada if they arrive at an official border checkpoint from a country that is considered safe, such as the United States. But they can claim refugee status if they are already in Canada, which is why tens of thousands of asylum-seekers have been crossing into Canada through unofficial entry points on foot. Canada's Refugee Board Makes It Harder For Nigerians To Be Granted Asylum Cliff Odebala Clarke 2018823 There has been some discussion about how we might apply the agreement to those who present themselves at a place other than the border where theres clear evidence that theyve come from the United States, that they were in a place that was, in fact, a safe third country, or if theyve made application in the United States and they have legal travel documents in the United States, Blair told The Canadian Press on March 15. There are ways, we believe, that we could apply the agreement more broadly to those people and therefore disincentivize them from crossing irregularly. Canada first began experiencing an influx of irregular border crossers in early 2017, shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump announced he would end a program that offered temporary protected status to migrants from several countries in the United States. Over 40,000 asylum-seekers have since arrived in Canada from the U.S., avoiding official border checkpoints where they would have been turned back. The issue has sparked calls for Canada to suspend or amend the agreement. Blair said the U.S. has also had people crossing irregularly from Canada into America, if not as many as have come the other way. This has created an opportunity to the mutual benefit of both countries to modernize the agreement, Blair said. Other potential changes are also being discussed, but Blair would not elaborate, saying it would not be appropriate to negotiate a bilateral treaty in public. There are ongoing discussions, he said. The agreement worked quite effectively for well over a decade and continues to work at regular points of entry and at our airports, but unfortunately there is this exemption that exists in the current agreement that allows people to avoid its terms if they present themselves at an irregular border point, so thats one of the things we are hoping to address in those discussions. An internal memo released under access-to-information law shows the Trudeau government has been working since 2017 to update the Safe Third Country Agreement (sometimes called the STCA). A briefing note prepared for Immigration Minister Ahmed Hussen ahead of meetings he had with U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristjen Nielsen on Jan. 18, 2017 highlights concerns over the influx of irregular migrants, saying the Safe Third Country Agreement is no longer working as intended. My WCWKristjen Nielsen United States Director of Homeland Security Gregory T. Faistenhammer 201844 Conservative immigration critic Michelle Rempel has been calling on the government to close the loophole in the agreement for more than a year to prevent those trying to jump the queue in Canadas immigration system. She blames Prime Minister Justin Trudeau personally for encouraging migrants to cross irregularly with a tweet he issued in early 2017, welcoming refugees to Canada. Of course, there are real, human consequences of this. The people entering Canada illegally from the safety and security of the United States jump ahead of others around the world whose lives are in peril as they wait for asylum in Canada, Rempel said. This is an injustice of what should be a fair, orderly, and compassionate immigration system and it has been Trudeaus plan all along. NDP immigration critic Jenny Kwan says she wants to see Canada fully suspend the agreement because she does not believe the U.S. is safe for asylum-seekers. Laurie Cooper 2018710 The entire agreement is predicated upon the notion that Canada and the United States have at least comparable, if not equal, policies and procedures around refugee determination, she said. She pointed to a ruling by U.S attorney general last year saying domestic and gang violence are no longer grounds for asylum in the U.S. She also pointed to U.S. border agents who separated children from their migrant parents when they were detained at the border in mid-2018. Many of those children have still not been returned to their parents. This is inhumane treatment that flies in the face of Canadian and International Law on the rights of the child, Kwan said. The only change that can be made to the STCA that respects the humanity of asylum-seekers and allows Canada to live up to its domestic and international obligations is to suspend the agreement. This undated photo provided by the Milwaukee Police Department shows Noelani Robinson. (Milwaukee Police Department via AP) Body Found in Minnesota Matches Missing 2-Year-Old Girl MILWAUKEEAuthorities say a body found in Minnesota matches the description of a 2-year-old girl whose mother was killed in Milwaukee this past week. Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension spokesman Bruce Gordon said Saturday, March 16, the body has been preliminarily identified as Noelani Robinson. Gordon says the body was found in Steele County, Minnesota, south of Minneapolis. He says the Minnesota agency is waiting for formal identification and preliminary autopsy results from the medical examiner. Authorities had asked the entire nation for help finding Noelani after the arrest of the girls father, who is suspected of fatally shooting her mother, Sierra Robinson in Milwaukee. Milwaukee police Chief Alfonso Morales said Friday the suspect, Dariaz Higgins, has been providing police with information on the whereabouts of his daughter, but it all has proven to be untrue. The Search Was a Game To Him The search to find Noelani has become a game to him. Its obviously apparent that he truly doesnt care about Noelani, Morales said. Higgins, of Miami, is accused of fatally shooting 24-year-old Sierra Robinson and wounding one of her friends on Monday, March 8. Police arrested him Wednesday and prosecutors have charged him with first-degree murder. Prosecutors said in charging documents that Higgins traveled to Milwaukee to give Noelani to Robinson but its unknown if Higgins actually brought her with him. Police said Higgins was Robinsons pimp and they had been romantically involved, but were no longer together. Robinson left Noelani with Higgins when she moved to Las Vegas last month but wanted her back, authorities said. According to charging documents, Higgins, Robinson, and her friend spent time driving around together in Milwaukee doing drugs Monday, before Higgins took them to an apartment building where he told them Noelani was. Prosecutors said Higgins shot Robinson and her friend when they got out of the car. Missing Children There were 464,324 missing children reported in the FBIs National Crime Information Center in 2017, according to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Under federal law, when children are reported missing to law enforcement, they must be entered into the database. In 2016, there were 465,676 entries. In 2017, the center said it assisted officers and families with the cases of more than 27,000 missing children. In those cases, 91 percent were endangered runaways, and 5 percent were family abductions. The number of reported missing children has significantly decreased in recent years, according to a 2017 report by the Department of Justice. The number of children reported missing dropped from 6.5 per 1,000 children in 1999 to 3.1 per 1,000 in 2013. Missing children typically fall into five categories: kidnapped by a family member, abducted by a nonfamily perpetrator, runaways, those who got lost, stranded, or injured, or those who went missing due to benign reasons, such as misunderstandings, according to the report researchers. By Ivan Moreno Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Chrystia Freeland (R) speaks during the press conference for the 10th Lima Group meeting in Ottawa, Ontario, on Feb. 4, 2019. (Lars Hagberg/AFP/Getty Images) Canada Imposes More Sanctions Against Russian People, Companies Over Ukraine Canada is restricting the finances of another 129 people, companies and organizations over Russias treatment of Ukraine. Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland announced the additional sanctions today, calling the measures a response to the ongoing occupation of Crimea and the Russian arrests of Ukrainian sailors in the Black Sea last November. Foreign Affairs Minster Chrystia Freeland says Canadians should be prepared for Russia to try to destabilize this Althia Raj 201736 Those arrests came in a naval confrontation in the Kerch Strait, an import marine link for southern Ukraine that runs past the Crimean Peninsula. The Russians planted a freighter across the narrow strait, asserted it was Russian territorial water and seized two Ukrainian gunboats and a tug. They took 24 sailors into custody. The Swallow's Nest, between Yalta and Alupka in the Crimean Peninsula Keith Anderson 2018411 Canada and its allies are unwavering in our support for Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity, Freeland said in a statement. Russias provocations in the Kerch Strait and its illegal invasion and ongoing occupation of Crimea will not go unchecked. Canadas most prominent new targets are Igor Sechin, a former deputy prime minister and current chairman of Russians state oil company, and Vladimir Yakunin, a former president of the state-owned Russian railway system. The list also includes a former Russian justice minister and envoy of President Vladimir Putin, mid-ranking public officials, and industrial concerns such as aircraft corporations and a shipyard. Sechin has not received a subpoena in the case of the speaker not come to testify #Russia #news #World #Europe The Worldwidenews.eu 20171113 Several of them had already been targeted by sanctions from the United States and the European Union. The restrictions freeze any assets the targets have under Canadian jurisdiction and forbid Canadians and anyone in Canada to do business with those named on the list. The Canadian government has also tightly limited dealings with the Russian financial and oil sectors. Global Affairs Canada says the number of people and entities sanctioned over Russias aggression toward Ukraine has now reached 429. The relationship between Ukraine and Russia has grown ever more tense since protests drove Ukraines Russian-backed president Viktor Yanukovych from office in 2014. Viktor Yanukovych said Friday in his first public address since being ousted as president of Ukraine that he will The Moscow News 2014228 Russia responded by occupying Crimea and helping separatists in eastern Ukrainian provinces close to the Russian border begin a violent rebellion. The new sanctions list includes figures in the separatist governments set up in those provinces. Former Texas congressman Beto ORourke speaks to local residents during a stop at the Central Park Coffee Company in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, on March 15, 2019. (Charlie Neibergall/AP Photo) Democrat 2020 Candidate Beto ORourke Wrote Story About Killing 38 People Democratic Presidential candidate Beto ORourke wrote a short story as a teen about killing 38 people and described the murders as acts of love. An excerpt of the story first surfaced in a profile of ORourke published by Reuters on March 15. An archive of the entire killing-spree-story has since been unearthed online. The more people I killed, the longer my dreams were, ORourke wrote. I soon quit my job, and stayed at my house in an almost comatose state. My dreams grew longer and more vivid. They kept me alive and proved to be the only thing to live for. I had killed nearly 38 people by the time of my twenty-third birthday, and each one was more fulfilling than the last. In the story, ORourke writes that the notion for the killing spree came to him during dreams and visions. Eventually, he writes, the desire could no longer be suppressed. Recognizing this fact, my one and only goal in life became the termination of everything that was free and loving, ORourke wrote. The first victims of the killing spree described in the story were two children. ORourke wrote that as the children crossed a road they looked happy. But their happiness was mine by right, ORourke wrote, before describing the killing. As I neared the young ones, I put all my weight on my right foot, keeping the accelerator pedal on the floor until I heard the crashing of the two children on the hood, and then the sharp cry of pain from one of the two, ORourke wrote. ORourke then described being fascinated and having sweet visions fill his head until an old man with a cane interrupted him knocking on his front window. He might have been a witness to my act of love. I was not sure, nor did I care. It was simply ecstasy, ORourke wrote about the old man. As I drove home, I envisioned myself committing more of these acts of love, and after a while, I had no trouble carrying them out. The short story is part of several disturbing writings by ORourke unearthed by Reuters, The Associated Press, and Yahoo News. In another story, he goes on an expletive-laden, deprecating rant about girls who he refers to as ultra-trendies. ORourke wrote the stories under the pseudonym Psychedelic Warlord as part of a prominent early hacking group called Cult of the Dead Cow. ORourke apologized for the violent writings on March 15 and said he is now mortified by the violent fiction. ORourke is one of 15 Democrats who have officially announced their candidacy for the 2020 presidential race. In early polling, he is among the handful of the top candidates, but far behind socialist Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and former Vice President Joe Biden. Biden has not officially announced his run but is widely expected to do so. Similar to most of the Democrats who have announced their candidacies, ORourke is embracing the socialist Medicare for All and Green New Deal policies. While most of the candidates have publicly distanced themselves from socialism, ORourke refused to denounce the ideology, even under repeated questioning by the BBC. Democratic socialists Sen. Ben Sanders (I-Vt.) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) sponsored the Medicare for All bill and the Green New Deal resolution in Congress. Democratic Socialists of America, the largest socialist group in the United States, and Communist Party USA are fervently backing both the Green New Deal and Medicare for All. An American flag flies outside of the Justice Department, in Washington on May 24, 2018. (Mark Wilson/Getty Images) Ex-US Intelligence Officer Pleads Guilty to Attempted Espionage for China WASHINGTONA former U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency officer pleaded guilty to attempted espionage for China, the Justice Department said on Friday, March 15. The officer, Ron Rockwell Hansen, was accused of trying to transmit classified U.S. national defense information to China and receiving hundreds of thousands of dollars while illegally acting as an agent for the Chinese government. Hansen started working at the DIA, which specializes in military intelligence, in 2006 after his retirement from the U.S. Army, and held a top-secret security clearance for many years, according to the Justice Department. Ron Hansen a former federal intelligence case officer, pleads guilty to trying to give classified military information to Chinahttps://t.co/9ndXa6qV1d pic.twitter.com/XPUWblnNCs Russ Hansen (@RussHansen51) March 16, 2019 In 2014, a Chinese intelligence service recruited Hansen, the Justice Department said. FBI agents took Hansen into custody in June, when he was traveling to the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to take a connecting flight to China. He faces up to 15 years in prison. His sentencing will take place on Sept. 24. It was not immediately clear who was representing Hansen in his case. Two Espionage Cases In the United States and Australia, two cases of Chinese nationals secretly obtaining confidential information was recently exposed. One took photos of a U.S. military base and the other downloaded trade secrets in Sydney. The two perpetrators attended the same university in China: the North University of China, a school with a strong military background. Zhao Qianli, a 20-year-old Chinese national who was in the United States as an exchange student, pleaded guilty in court for taking photos of the U.S. Naval Air Station Key West in Florida. He was sentenced to one year in prison. In September last year, Zhao was arrested after taking photos at the Key West Naval Air Station. Investigators found on his digital camera and smartphone that he had taken photos and videos of government buildings and an antenna field. Zhao defended himself by saying that he was just a tourist who got lost. But according to court documents, none of the photos and videos found on his cell phone and digital cameras were of any tourist attraction sites in Key West. Witnesses also said they saw Zhao walk directly toward the restricted area where the antenna field was located and took photosdespite a sign clearly indicating the area was restricted. Zhao had studied in a summer exchange program that ended in September. His visa had already expired when he was arrested. According to a Feb. 11 Free Beacon article, citing law enforcement sources, investigators discovered that Zhao was in touch with Chinese intelligence officers inside the United States before he took photographs at the base. Under FBI interrogation, Zhao also disclosed he was the son of a high-ranking Chinese military officer and that his mother worked for the Chinese government. Coincidently, a Chinese citizen charged with stealing confidential data in Australia is also a graduate of North University of China. Zheng Yi, 28, a contractor who provided customer support for Australias largest financial firm AMP, was charged with stealing confidential data related to 20 AMP customers. Australian police arrested him in January at the Sydney International Airport when he was about to fly back to China with his wife and child, according to reports by Australian media ABC. Zheng pleaded guilty at a Sydney court on Feb. 7, and will be sentenced on March 21. The Mysterious North University of China Both Chinese suspects were students of North University of China. According to the universitys official website, the school was founded by the Eighth Route Army, a division under the command of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Peng Dehuai, then-deputy commander-in-chief of the Eighth Route Army and general of the Chinese forces during the Korean War, and Zuo Quan, then-deputy chief of general staff, were personally involved in providing instructions for the preparation of the school, according to a report by state-run news website ChinaNews.com. Since 2011, the Shanxi provincial government and Chinas State Administration for Science, Technology, and Industry for National Defense (SASTIND) have had joint administration over the school. The latter is a central government agency tasked with drafting guidelines and policies that strengthen Chinas military forces with more advanced equipment. As of October 2016, more than 2,000 graduates of North University have been dispatched to army, navy, air force, rocket army, and strategic resources of the army, according to a Dec. 2017 report by the Chinese militarys official news website, 81.cn. Advanced technologies developed at North University are widely used in Chinese missiles, satellites, and spacecraft. The Structure of Chinas Intelligence Agencies Yao Cheng, a former lieutenant of the Chinese navy who currently lives in the United States, told Radio Free Asia in a Feb. 13 interview, after the Peoples Liberation Armythe official name of the Chinese militarysimplified its organizations in 1992, many military colleges and universities are now disguised as a local university or have become part of a local university. But in actuality, those schools specialize in training spies. I believe they are providing more and more rigorous espionage training over the years, with a focus on how to perform military technology theft, he said. Yao himself had received spy training at a secretive college in Chongqing many years ago. Yao further explained to Radio Free Asia how Chinese higher education is involved in intelligence operations. Most interestingly, the National Education Commission is one of the six major intelligence agencies. Especially those government-sponsored students studying abroad, they all have special [spy] missions. Yao also exposed the Chinese intelligence agencies often use the flying swallow plan, whereby overseas Chinese students who serve as spies work with a single contact in Chinajust as swallows pick up only one piece of mud at a time to build their nests. The students do not have their personal files inside Chinas intelligence system, so if they are caught, there is little information to be revealed. The Australian Strategic Policy Institute released a report in October last year detailing the PLAs long-standing practice of sending military scientists overseas to acquire military technology in the West. According to this report, the Chinese military has sponsored more than 2,500 scientists and engineers to study abroad since 2007. Approximately 500 were sent to the U.K. and the United States, and roughly 300 each to Australia and Canada. In at least 17 cases, PLA scientists were found to have hidden their military affiliations while studying abroad, the report stated. By Makini Brice The Epoch Times reporter Olivia Li contributed to this report. Andrea Gosse (right) leaves a St. John's, N.L. courthouse, on March 15, 2019, surrounded with supporters shortly after hearing the first-degree murder conviction of Trent Butt, found guilty of killing their five-year-old daughter Quinn almost three years ago. (Holly McKenzie-Sutter/The Canadian Press) Jury Convicts Newfoundland Father of First Degree Murder of Daughter A Newfoundland mother sobbed March 15 after a jury convicted her estranged husband of first-degree murder in the death of their five-year-old daughter. Heart-wrenching testimony from Quinn Butts mother Andrea Gosse. Many sobbing as she did as she left the stand. On a break now but Defence Lawyer will cross examine her next. #ButtTrial pic.twitter.com/suuhLs91wq Mark Quinn (@CBCMarkQuinn) March 6, 2019 The jury returned Friday afternoon with the verdict against Trent Buttit carries an automatic life sentence with no chance of parole for 25 years. It prompted cheers and sobs in the packed courtroom in provincial supreme court in St. Johns, N.L. His estranged wife, Andrea Gosse, tearfully hugged family members, friends, and Crown lawyers. Part 2 of our chat with Andrea Gosse. @VOCMNEWS pic.twitter.com/QAzxDWevl4 Renell LeGrow (@renell_legrow) March 15, 2019 It felt like it took forever, but we got justice for Quinn, Gosse said between sobs, a memorial pin over her heart showing her daughters face. I cant explain it, I have never felt this type of emotion in my life, she said. But this is what he chose to do to our life. Surrounded by her family on the courthouse steps, Gosse tearfully said she hopes the verdict brings changes that could help the next child like her daughter. Gosse said the verdict may not mean closure for her right away, but she sees it as a new chapter to grieve and talk about her daughters death, now that the emotional trial is over. Where is the proof of a plan by Trent Butt to kill Quinn? asks Lawyer Derek Hogan pic.twitter.com/01rU4mQ60I Mark Quinn (@CBCMarkQuinn) March 14, 2019 Butt will be sentenced April 23. He had previously pleaded guilty to arson. No one at the murder trial disputed that Butt killed their daughter Quinn at his Carbonear, N.L., home in April 2016, before setting the house ablaze. The jury was asked to decide whether the death was planned and deliberate, which would mean Butt was guilty of first-degree murder, or if he was guilty of a lesser charge. Butt testified at trial that he did not remember killing Quinn, but said he found himself over her body and concluded he must have suffocated her. Trent Butt speaks with lawyer Derek Hogan. @VOCMNEWS pic.twitter.com/T1YXKwRdhy Renell LeGrow (@renell_legrow) March 15, 2019 Crown lawyer Lloyd Strickland said the killing was a calculated plan to inflict suffering on his estranged wife. The jury had asked Friday to hear Butts testimony again, and to view a security video taken from his house. The video from the night in question showed Butt moving his truck and later putting something in it. Quinns voice is heard on the tape after Butt moved the truck. In closing arguments on Thursday, the Crown pointed to the security video as evidence that the killing was premeditated. The Crown noted that Butt moved the truck before Quinn was killed, suggesting he had been planning to set fire to his home, presumably with Quinn inside. Butt left a suicide note in the truck saying he had killed Quinn and himself to keep her apart from her mother, Butts estranged wife Andrea Gosse. After closing arguments and the judges charge Thursday, jurors deliberated for about four hours before retiring for the evening. They returned to the courthouse at 9 a.m. local time on Friday and re-entered the courtroom to ask the judge their question a little over two hours later. They returned with a verdict by mid-afternoon. Butts lawyer, Derek Hogan, had argued there was no way to know Butts thought process on the night Quinn was killed. NEW YORKLuxury marketing business leader Rosanna Giacalone thoroughly enjoyed Shen Yun Performing Arts as the dance company brought back Chinas ancient culture onto the stage of David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center, New York. We love it. Its wonderful, Giacalone said after watching the performance with her companion Martin on March 15. Its actually everything that we thought it would be. Its colorful, beautiful, and traditional. Shen Yun Performing Arts is a top classical Chinese dance company founded with a mission to revive 5,000 years of traditional Chinese culture through music and dance. In just over a decade, the company has expanded from one to six touring contingents, which each travel the world performing a new program each year. Giacalone, who owns her own luxury marketing firm, La Vita E Belle, has worked with high-end global brands across a range of industries including Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermes, Four Seasons Hotels, BMW, and Apple. She also launched the Charleston, South Carolina, chapter of Fashion Group International, the largest global nonprofit dedicated to fashion, beauty, and design. Emotion The marketing executive was enthralled by the gracefulness of the dancers, and particularly enjoyed the classical Chinese dance Sleeves of the Tang Palace. In that segment, female performers dance with long flowing sleeves, a garment worn by women of the court in the Tang Dynasty, a period that ranged from the 7th to 10th centuries. But the piece that resonated with Giacalone the most was the modern-day tale of suppression of faith in China. There was a tremendous amount of emotion, and the one number where they talk about something that is very current and our news in term of persecution. That part was upsetting but its beautiful, she said. In the story-based danceGoodness in the Face of Evil, a young women is sent to prison in China for practicing the spiritual discipline Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong. Falun Dafa was banned by the Chinese Communist Party in 1999 after the practices rise in popularity in the 1990s resulted in around 70 to 100 million people practicing in the country, according to estimates cited by Western media. Since then, practitioners of Falun Dafa have been the target of a sweeping crackdown that has seen thousands of practitioners imprisoned for their faith. Giacalone appreciated the message of the segment exposing the abuses in todays China. Overall, she thought such themes were deftly depicted. The dancers are incredible and actually its beautiful. And the messages are beautifully conveyed as well, she said. Speechless Giacalone wasnt the only way blown away by the dancers skill; former ballet dancer Alicja Cohen was rendered speechless while watching the dancers movements, flips, and expressions. I was speechless when I was looking at them. I really cant believe what they were doing, Cohen said. Fantastic, absolutely fantastic. Cohen, who is currently an art dealer, used to be a professional ballet dancer in Poland and also in the United States. The flexibility of the dancers stunned Cohen so much that she text messaged her friends about it immediately after watching the performance. They dont have bones, Cohen said. I couldnt do it, even when I was young, I couldnt do it. They were fantastic. In addition, what was impressive, Cohen said, was that it wasnt only a few performers pulling off the difficult techniques, but all of them. Overall, the quality of the performance was the absolute best, said Cohen. And the spectacle was one that demanded to be re-experienced. Next year when you come, Ill be here. I really enjoy that very very much. With reporting by Dongyu Teng. The Epoch Times considers Shen Yun Performing Arts the significant cultural event of our time and has covered audience reactions since the companys inception in 2006. Morrison Condemns Ugly Comments From Australian Senator After Christchurch Massacre Australian politicians have condemned the hate speech of Queensland senator Fraser Anning about the New Zealand mosque shootings. Scott Morrison has condemned comments from Senator Fraser Anning blaming the Islamic community for the New Zealand mosque shooting, saying they are appalling and theyre ugly and they have no place in Australia. The remarks by Senator Fraser Anning blaming the murderous attacks by a violent, right-wing, extremist terrorist in New Zealand on immigration are disgusting. Those views have no place in Australia, let alone the Australian Parliament. Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) March 15, 2019 We will always protect and defend our Muslim community here in Australia and their right to peacefully practice their religion without fear. I am also disgusted by, and completely denounce, comments that seek to denigrate Muslims and Islam and will always speak out against this. Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) March 16, 2019 Senator Anning said in a post that has since been removed from Twitter: I am utterly opposed to any form of violence within our community, and I totally condemn the actions of the gunman. However, while this kind of violent vigilantism can never be justified, what it highlights is the growing fear within our community, both in Australia and New Zealand, of the increasing Muslim presence. As always, left-wing politicians and the media will rush to claim that the causes of todays shootings lie with gun laws or those who hold nationalist views but this is all cliched nonsense. The real cause of bloodshed on New Zealand streets today is the immigration program which allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place. Let us be clear, while Muslims may have been the victims today, usually they are the perpetrators. World-wide, Muslims are killing people in the name of their faith on an industrial scale. The entire religion of Islam is simply the violent ideology of a sixth-century despot masquerading as a religious leader, which justifies endless war against anyone who opposes it and calls for the murder of unbelievers and apostates. The truth is that Islam is not like any other faith. It is the religious equivalent of fascism. And just because the followers of this savage belief were not the killers in this instance, does not make them blameless. Anning finished by quoting a passage from the Bible and saying, Those who follow a violent religion that calls on them to murder us (non-believers), cannot be too surprised when someone takes them at their word and responds in kind. The prime minister announced the government would censure the Queensland independent, after he and Foreign Minister Marise Payne joined the congregation at Lakemba Mosque for prayers on Saturday. Morrison said there had been discussions between Senators Mathias Cormann and Penny Wong about a bipartisan motion when parliament returns in April. These comments are appalling and theyre ugly and they have no place in Australia, he told reporters in Sydney. In the Australian Parliament also. And he should be, frankly, ashamed of himself. Opposition leader Bill Shorten voiced his anger at Anning, saying he was chasing a headline. I do wonder if hes made Australians less safe overseas, he told reporters in Melbourne. Thats another reason not to give this fool any more oxygen. While families in Christchurch mourn for loved ones theyve lost, an obscure Australian Senator saw this act of terrorism and tragedy as an opportunity to blame the murder victims. Bill Shorten (@billshortenmp) March 15, 2019 Labor frontbencher Tony Burke described Senator Annings comments as hate speech, and told the ABC the normalisation of bigotry is something that is not only confined to him. We need to call it out, we need to make sure that no way any member of parliament fosters it. He wants the conflict and he wants the notoriety, he said. Bilal Rauf from the Australian National Imams Council said Annings statement may as well have been an extract from the manifesto of the person that perpetrated these heinous crimes. While they may be words, words create a certain environment, they embolden certain people, they give them a platform or a sense of confidence that they can do certain things, he said. I hope there is a real question as to his position as a federal parliamentarian given the privileges and the responsibilities which are attached to that. A lot of people have been asking why I dont join Pauline Hansons One Nation Party. This is an example of why it wont work, in this case Pauline has chosen to run a Muslim candidate Emma Eros in the NSW election. I stand totally against any Muslims in our Parliament. Senator Fraser Anning (@fraser_anning) March 12, 2019 Anning has continually been dropped from all the political parties that he was able to join. Most recently, Bob Katter, leader of Katters Australian Party, dropped Anning from his party after Anning called for a European immigration program in his first speech in Parliament. Clearly that is racist, Katter said at the time. A change.org petition calling for Annings expulsion from parliament has amassed about 250,000 signatures. We call on the Australian government to expel this man who blames victims for their own violent deaths, and uses references to genocide to further his hateful agenda. Meanwhile, a 17-year-old boy was arrested after allegedly throwing an egg at Senator Anning at a speaking event at Moorabbin in Melbourne on Saturday. Fed Pols Political solidarity over the New Zealand attack has been shattered by the controversial Senator Fraser Anning, who's lashed out at a young protester. #9News | http://9News.com.au 9 News 2019316 The teenager has since been released pending further inquiries. Out of respect and in condolence for all those killed in the terrorist attack in New Zealand, I have asked for flags to be flown at half-mast. pic.twitter.com/0qgIrmdgoH Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) March 15, 2019 Australian flags across the country were flown at half mast on March 16 as the country grieved with New Zealand over the loss of life cause by the mosque massacre. Local school boys singing for the 49 lives lost ???? @9NewsAUS pic.twitter.com/MITUw0QwXH Sophie Walsh (@sophie_walsh9) March 15, 2019 Locals in Christchurch have spent the day in mourning but scenes shared on social media have also showed how they have been coming together to grieve and strengthen their solidarity with acts of love. By Eliza Berlage The Epoch Times staff contributed to this report Brenton Tarrant, one of the suspected shooters in the New Zealand mosque shootings, allegedly streamed the attack live on Facebook on March 15, 2019. (Screenshot) New Zealand Gunman Entranced With Ottoman Sites in Europe BELGRADE, SerbiaThe gunman suspected in the mosque shootings that left at least 49 people dead in New Zealand had traveled to the Balkans in the past three years, where he toured historic sites and apparently studied battles between Christians and the Ottoman empire. Authorities in Bulgaria, Turkey, and Croatia have confirmed that Brenton Tarrant, 28, had been to their countries in 2016-2018. Hungarian counterterrorism authorities also suggested that Tarrant had visited but revealed no other information, and local media in Bosnia reported a 2017 trip there. While the details of Tarrants travels are sketchy, authorities in those countries said they are investigating his movements and any contacts he might have had with local people. New Zealand gunman entranced with Ottoman sites in Europe https://t.co/fzkrUTOE0r pic.twitter.com/KyMJujBkDe CTV Montreal (@CTVMontreal) March 16, 2019 During his unprecedented, live-streamed shooting spree Friday in Christchurch, Tarrant exposed his apparent fascination with the religious conflicts in Europe and the Balkansa volatile region that has been the site of some of Europes most violent clashes. Tarrants soundtrack as he drove to the Christchurch mosque included a nationalist Serb song from the 1992-95 Bosnian war that tore apart Yugoslavia. The song glorifies Serbian fighters and former Bosnian Serb political leader Radovan Karadzicthe man jailed at the United Nations war crimes tribunal in The Hague for genocide and other war crimes against Bosnian Muslims. Tarrants rifles contained the names of legendary Serbs and Montenegrins who fought against the 500-year-rule of the Muslim Ottomans in the Balkans, written in the Cyrillic alphabet used by the two Orthodox Christian nations. In a 74-page manifesto that he posted on social media, Tarrant said he was a white supremacist who was out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims. While Serbia and Bosnia have not confirmed that Tarrant had visited, police in neighboring Croatia issued a brief statement Saturday saying he was in the country in December 2016 and January 2017. It was not known if his stay was continuous. Croatias 24 sata (24 hours) news site said Tarrant left Croatia by plane from the capital Zagreb on Jan. 18, 2017, after visiting the Adriatic coastal cities of Porec, Zadar, Sibenik, and Dubrovnik, where he mostly stayed in hostels. Until that moment yesterday (in New Zealand), that person was not in the focus of our institutions, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic told reporters Saturday, according to the official HINA news agency. In Bosnia, the local Klix.ba news portal reported that Tarrant arrived in that country from Montenegro in early January 2017. Bulgarias chief prosecutor, Sotir Tsatsarov, said Friday that Tarrant last year rented a car and toured more than a dozen cities, visiting historic sites from Nov. 9 to Nov. 15. He was mainly interested in the battles between Christians and the Ottoman army, the prosecutor said. The Interior Ministry said Bulgaria is coordinating with counterterrorism teams from various countries, including the United States, over Tarrant. An investigation has been launched into whether he had contacts with local citizens, authorities said. So far, we do not have any evidence that Tarrant had been involved in terror activities during his stay in Bulgaria, the Interior Ministrys chief secretary, Ivaylo Ivanov, said. He said police are checking all places and all people he possibly contacted during his weeklong stay in the country last November. Turkey is also investigating Tarrants movements during his two reported visits to the country that straddles Europe and Asia and who had three citizens injured in Fridays slaughter. Perpetrator of New Zealand terrorist attack visited Turkey twice https://t.co/OqgNGwpKGU probe is ongoing to establish Brenton Tarrants movements in Turkey during his stay between March 17-20 and September 13 to October 25 in 2016, a senior Turkish official tells TRT World. pic.twitter.com/ezOjhYENzx Nick Monroe (@nickmon1112) March 16, 2019 State broadcaster TRT says Tarrant visited Turkey twice in 2016on March 17-20 and from Sept. 13 to Oct. 25. The station released a security camera image of him arriving at Istanbuls Ataturk Airport. Hungarys Counter-Terrorism Center suggested in an email to The Associated Press that he also visited there, saying they are cooperating with other countries to fully examine the circumstances of (Tarrants) Hungarian trip and stay. The details and phases of this processfor understandable reasonsare not public, the center said. In Bosnia, many residents said the massacre in New Zealand and Tarrants mention of Karadzic, who has been convicted of genocide, have brought back their own horrific memories of the Bosnian war, which killed more than 100,000 people. This (attack) is more proof that Karadzics ideology is a motive for killings and terrorism, said Adel Sabanovic, a Muslim from the Bosnian capital of Sarajevo and a survivor of the 1995 Srebrenica massacre in which Bosnian Serb troops killed some 8,000 Muslim boys and men. It must be condemned in strongest possible terms. A YouTube video for the song that Tarrant played in his car on the way to gunning people down at the mosque in Christchurch shows emaciated Muslim prisoners in Serb-run detention camps during the war. Beware Ustashas and Turks, says the song, using wartime, derogatory terms for Bosnian Croats and Bosnian Muslims used by Serb nationalists. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said the New Zealand shooting is a terrible crime conducted by a psychopath. He criticized foreign and domestic media for somehow implying that Serbs should be blamed for the crime because of the gunmans taste for music. By Jovana Gec New Zealand Shooter Wrote Swedish Girls Name on Rifle, Used Her Death to Justify Revenge The man who attacked a mosque in New Zealand Friday wrote the name of a little girl killed in a 2017 terrorist attack on his rifle, justifying his own attack as revenge for her death. Alleged gunman, 28-year-old Australian man Brenton Tarrant, attacked two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, killing 49 people and wounding numerous others, according to CNN. Written on the shooters rifle was Ebba Akerlund, the name of an 11-year-old partially deaf Swedish girl who died in an April 2017 terrorist attack. Akerlund was killed after Uzbekistan asylum-seeker, Rakhmat Akilov, drove a stolen beer truck through a crowd in Stockholm. The attack killed five and injured 14, according to The Associated Press. Alleged shooter Tarrant cited Akerlunds death multiple times in his 74-page manifesto, vowing to take revenge for Ebba Akerlund, in his manifesto, The Daily Beast reported. Other white supremacist groups have used the girls name to justify violence. That difference was Ebba Akerlund. Young, innocent and dead Ebba, Tarrant wrote. Ebba death at the hands of the invaders, the indignity of her violent demise and my inability to stop it broke through my own jaded cynicism like a sledgehammer. It gives you chills, Akerlunds mother, Jeanette Akerlund, said, according to the Beast. It is deeply tragic that Ebbas name is abused in political propaganda. The girls father also blasted violent extremists who use his daughters name as justification for further violence. [M]y daughters name on a rifle How sick it is, Stefan Akerlund wrote in a Facebook post. How in hell can we ever get to mourn in peace? he said, the Beast reported. Skall bli spannande att se hur Nya Zeeland tar hand om terroroffren om man valjer Sveriges modell och bara postar ett Stefan Ebbas Pappa 2019315 Tarrants manifesto also cites a number of terrorist attacks committed by Islamic terrorists and points to a history of aggression by Muslims. His attack is revenge for the enslavement of millions of Europeans taken from their lands by the Islamic slavers, according to the manifesto. Approximately four percent of guns in New Zealand are registered, according to researcher and GunPolicy.org founder, Philip Alpers, The Guardian reported. Tarrant is in custody and has been charged with murder, according to Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison. By Grace Carr | Reporter Follow Grace on Twitter. A teacher walks through a classroom during a high school exam in Strasbourg, France on June 18, 2018. (Frederick Florin/AFP/Getty Images) Ohio Teacher Resigns for Taping Students Mouths Shut CINCINNATIA Cincinnati Public Schools teacher who acknowledged putting duct tape over students mouths to discipline them has resigned. District spokeswoman Lauren Worley says Charles Igwekala-Nweke resigned in January. Igwekala-Nweke taught math at Clark Montessori High School and Hughes STEM High School and had worked for the district since 2015. The teacher admitted to taping students mouths shut for talking during an examhttps://t.co/rsLbDq2hcn KTLA (@KTLA) March 16, 2019 The Cincinnati Enquirer reported Friday that school records show a student told another teacher Igwekala-Nweke put tape over his mouth in December. Igwekala-Nweke wrote in an email to Hughes Principal Kathy Wright that he taped students mouths shut instead of reprimanding them for talking during an exam. Ohio teacher resigns for taping students mouths shut https://t.co/fwfKtMCPfx pic.twitter.com/RRqKHrHrEc WKBN 27 First News (@WKBN) March 16, 2019 At least three students told officials their mouths were taped shut. Igwekala-Nweke later apologized, saying he allowed gross rationale to justify gross behavior. Ontario Education Minister Lisa Thompson stands alongside Parliamentary Assistant Sam Oosterhoff as she announces an update to the provinces education program at the Ontario Science Centre in Toronto on March 15, 2019. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young) Ontario Announces Sex-Ed Changes, Keeps Controversial 2015 Material The Ontario government has announced an update to the provinces education program, but critics say the sex-ed curriculum remains largely the same as the one from 2015, which many parents objected to for including gender identity theory, among other controversial topics. At a March 15 news conference in Toronto, Education Minister Lisa Thompson said there will be a modernized age-appropriate sex-education curriculum as a result of consultations with parents and the public; however, all the concepts from the 2015 curriculum would be still be taught. The 2015 curriculum, brought in by the previous government under Kathleen Wynne, drew criticism for exposing children to material that was inappropriate for their age. The Ford government scrapped that curriculum in 2018 citing concerns from parents, and promised to craft an age-appropriate version based on consultations with parents and the public. The update means children from grade one to eight will now learn about mental health and concussions. Consent, online safety, and family and healthy relationships will be taught from the second grade onward while new information on cannabis will be taught starting in grade six. Students will now begin learning about sexual orientation in grade five rather than grade six. Gender identity and gender expression will be taught in the second half of grade eight rather than beginning in grade six. This would be considered mandatory material, Thompson said. Thompson noted, however, that theres an opt-out policy for parents who are uncomfortable with their children learning a particular piece of the new curriculum. We need to respect parents as the primary educators of their children, she said. So if theres something happening in grade one or grade two a parent is uncomfortable with, they need to work with their teacher and their principal on the opt-out option that weve presented through this plan. Despite the choice to opt out, the changes dont go nearly far enough for Tanya Granic Allen, president of Parents as First Educators, which has long been a critic of the 2015 curriculum. She says the new curriculum is almost identical to the 2015 one, noting that Premier Doug Fords promised to drop gender identity theory from the Ontario curriculum back in February 2018. What does he think today about gender identity theory? Does he believe its not longer liberal ideology? What happened to change his mind? she said in a press release. Jack Fonseca with Campaign Life Coalition (CLC), which also opposes the 2015 curriculum, says allowing parents to opt out their children from these anti-scientific lessons is not sufficient. Why should our children be made to feel ostracized when they have to leave the class or stay home on certain days? Its more fair and easier on everyone to just leave this controversial ideology out of the classroom. Let those who believe in it teach it to their own kids at home, he said. CLC national president Jeff Gunnarson repeated his organizations prior call for Ford to fire Thompson as education minister, and called on Ford to keep his promise. While Thompson owns the education file, the fact of the matter is the buck stops with Premier Ford. He must intervene and remove transgender ideology lessons from the elementary and high school curriculum, he said. The government is still defining and testing the new curriculum. It is expected to be released in late May for the new school year starting in September. Thompson also announced changes to the math curriculum, which will see discovery math scrapped in favour of past methods of teaching the subject. Over the next four years, a new math curriculum for all students in all grades will be phased in. Classroom sizes will also change for intermediate and high school classes over the next four years, Thompson said, but was quick to add that no teacher would be out of a job because of the change. Beto O'Rourke attends the "Running with Beto" Premiere 2019 SXSW Conference and Festivals at Paramount Theatre in Austin, Texas, on March 9, 2019. (Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for SXSW) ORourke Apologizes for Teen Writings, Rhetoric Toward Wife Democratic presidential contender Beto ORourke on Friday acknowledged making mistakes as a teen and as a candidate, responding to criticism of his campaign rhetoric toward his wife as well as writings he produced online when he was young. During a taping of the Political Party Live podcast in Cedar Rapids, he addressed criticism of his campaign-trail joke that his wife, Amy, has raised their three kids sometimes with my help. ORourke made the comment at multiple campaign stops during his first swing through Iowa, including earlier Friday, eliciting laughs each time, but he also drew criticism as being insensitive to the challenges faced by single parents raising children. ORourke said the criticism of his ham-handed attempt to highlight his wifes work in their marriage was right on. Not only will I not say that again but I will be much more thoughtful in the ways that I talk about my marriage, he said. ORourke, 46, also said he was mortified when he reread the violent fiction he wrote as a teen, which received fresh attention Friday after a 3,300-word Reuters report came out just a day after ORourke officially announced his run for the White House. ORourke wrote a handful of posts on the groups message board under the name Psychedelic Warlord, including a fictional piece he penned when he was 15 about children getting run over by a car. One day, as I was driving home from work, I noticed two children crossing the street. They were happy, happy to be free from their troubles, ORourke wrote. This happiness was mine by right. I had earned it in my dreams. As I neared the young ones, I put all my weight on my right foot, keeping the accelerator pedal on the floor until I heard the crashing of the two children on the hood, and then the sharp cry of pain from one of the two. I was so fascinated for a moment, that when after I had stopped my vehicle, I just sat in a daze, sweet visions filling my head. The eerie fictional story sheds additional context on ORourkes drunk driving arrest in the 1990s. Im mortified to read it now, incredibly embarrassed, but I have to take ownership of my words, he said. Whatever my intention was as a teenager doesnt matter, I have to look long and hard at my actions, at the language I have used, and I have to constantly try to do better. The report also revealed that ORourke belonged to a major hacking group that posted tools people can use to break into computers running Windows systems. ORourke had said after an earlier campaign stop that it was stuff I was part of as a teenager. Its not anything Im proud of today, and I mean, thatsthats the long and short of it, he said. All I can do is my best, which is what Im trying to do. I cant control anything Ive done in the past. I can only control what I do going forward and what I plan to do is give this my best. In another fiction piece, ORourke converses with a self-proclaimed neo-Nazi who maintained that Hitler was misunderstood and didnt personally want Jews killed. ORourke and a Jewish friend questioned the man about his theories and let him ramble on about Jews and African-Americansan attempt to let him hang himself with his own words. We were trying to see what made him think the horrible things that he did, he wrote in the file. ORourke joined a crowded Democratic field in the presidential race on March 14. He announced his candidacy in an internet video and positioned climate change as an existential crisis that needs to be immediately confronted. Like most of the other Democrats who have announced their candidacies, ORourke is embracing socialist Medicare for All and Green New Deal policies. But while most have publicly distanced themselves from socialism, ORourke refused to denounce the ideology, even under repeated questioning by the BBC. Democratic socialists Sen. Ben Sanders (I-Vt.) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) sponsored the Medicare for All bill and the Green New Deal resolution in Congress. Democratic Socialists of America, the largest socialist group in the United States, and Communist Party USA are fervently backing both the Green New Deal and Medicare for All. In another article ORourke wrote as a teen, he mused how the world would work without money. After changing the system, including the government, ORourke foresaw the end of starvation and class distinctions. To achieve a money-less society (or have a society where money is heavily de-emphasized) a lot of things would have to change, including government as we know it. This is where the anti-money group and the disciples of Anarchy meet, ORourke wrote under his pseudonym, Psychedelic Warlord. I fear we will always have a system of government, one way or another, so we would have to use other means other than totally toppling the government (I dont think the masses would support such a radical move at this time), he continued. The Epoch Times reporter Ivan Pentchoukov, The Associated Press, and Reuters contributed to this report. Release of Congressional Transcripts Confirms The Epoch Times Prior Reporting The release of three congressional transcripts in recent weeks by Rep. Doug Collins (R-Ga.), the ranking member of the House Judiciary Committee, confirms a series of exclusive reports by The Epoch Times. Collinss office released the transcripts of the interviews that congressional investigators conducted with Department of Justice (DOJ) official Bruce Ohr, former FBI lawyer Lisa Page, and former FBI agent Peter Strzok. The Epoch Times broke the details of Pages transcript in an exclusive article on Jan. 11. The article made several major revelations regarding the conduct of the FBI and DOJ in their investigations into former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and President Donald Trump. Page testified that the DOJ had effectively prevented the FBI from pursuing gross-negligence charges against Clinton when investigating her use of a private email server to send classified information. The article also revealed that the FBI considered investigating Trump for obstruction of justice both before and after FBI Director James Comey was fired. The article was picked up on the same day by The New York Times, which published on Jan. 11 an article headlined F.B.I. Opened Inquiry Into Whether Trump Was Secretly Working on Behalf of Russia, in which it acknowledged The Epoch Times reporting on the Page testimony: Parts of her testimony were first reported by The Epoch Times. The full article by Jeff Carlson can be read here. McCabe Testimony Following our reporting on Pages testimony, The Epoch Times also broke news contained in the testimony of former Acting FBI Director Andrew McCabe. McCabe told congressional investigators that the drafting of the FBIs exoneration statement of Clinton, months prior to concluding the investigation, was highly unusual. This is the only time that I am aware of, sir, McCabe said in his testimony. Click here to read the full article. Bruce Ohrs Testimony The Epoch Times subsequently broke the news contained in the testimony of former Associate Deputy Attorney General Bruce Ohr. Ohr told congressional investigators that he passed on information to the FBI from former MI6 spy Christopher Steelewho had been hired by Fusion GPS on behalf of the Clinton campaign and the Democratic National Committee to produce a dossier on Donald Trump. He also testified to passing on a USB stick to the FBI from his wife, Nellie Ohr, who had worked for Fusion GPS. After the FBI officially terminated relations with Steele because of his unauthorized contact with media reporters, Ohr acted as a backchannel conduit to pass information to the FBI from Steele. Ohr was assigned an FBI handler, agent Joe Pientka, who would then pass to Strzok the informationwhich Pientka recorded in official FD-302 forms. Notably, Ohrs testimony reveals that after Trump fired Comey, the FBI, under acting FBI Director Andrew McCabe, sought to re-engage Steele. Click here to read the full article. Papadopoulos Testimony The Epoch Times broke the details contained in the testimony given by former Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulos on Jan. 16. In his testimony, Papadopoulos revealed significant new details about his interactions with the FBI and the office of special counsel Robert Mueller. He revealed that the FBI had asked him to travel to London and wear a wire to record Maltese professor Joseph Mifsudsomething he refused to do. Papadopoulos also told lawmakers that he believed he was the target of a sting operation, involving $10,000 he was given in cash. Click here to read the full article. Baker Testimony The Epoch Times also broke the details contained in the transcript of former FBI general counsel James Baker in a Jan. 18 article. In his testimony, Baker admitted that the FBIs Russia-collusion investigation was riddled with abnormalities. I had a jaundiced eye about everything, yes. I had skepticism about all this stuff. I was concerned about all of this. This whole situation was horrible, and it was novel and we were trying to figure out what to do, and it was highly unusual, Baker told lawmakers about the FBIs investigation into the Trump campaign. Baker also said that he believed, even toward the end of the Clinton investigation, that she should have been charged over her alarming, appalling mishandling of classified information. Click here to read the full article. Major Lead Not Followed An Epoch Times article published on Jan. 29, based on the transcripts of interviews with Strzok, Page, Bill Priestap, Jonathan Moffa, John Giacolone, and Comey, revealed that they were all questioned about a referral made by the Intelligence Community Inspector General (ICIG) in the case of Clinton. The transcripts suggest that Strzok ignored the lead and never followed up with the ICIG regarding the referral. Click here to read the full article. Bill Priestap Testimony The Epoch Times also produced an exclusive report on the testimony of former high-ranking FBI official Bill Priestap on Jan. 31. The article revealed that Priestap, who was officially in charge of both the Clinton and Trump investigations, appeared to not really have been in control. Priestap told congressional investigators that it was a handpicked group that ran the investigations, and that it was really FBI agent Strzok and FBI analyst Moffa who were driving the train. Click here to read the full article. Trisha Anderson Testimony The Epoch Times exclusive report on the testimony of Trisha Andersonthe No. 2 lawyer at the agencys Office of General Counsel showed that she signed off on the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) warrant application on Trump campaign adviser Carter Page without having read it. The testimony also revealed that Anderson was a key player in the FBIs counterintelligence investigation of Trump and his 2016 presidential campaign. Read the two articles here and here. Nellie Ohr Testimony Nellie Ohr confirmed in her testimony before congressional investigatorswhich The Epoch Times reported about on March 13that she worked for the CIA prior to researching Trump and his family for Fusion GPS. Ohr said she had worked for a number of federal agencies, including a division of the CIA named Open Source Works, as an independent contractor. Click here to read the full article. Trump Says There Should Be No Mueller Report, Calls Investigation Illegal and Conflicted President Donald Trump said in a series of recent tweets that there should be no report from Special Counsel Robert Muellers Russia probe, condemning it as an illegal and conflicted investigation in search of a crime. In his tweets on March 15, Trump wrote: So, if there was knowingly & acknowledged to be zero crime when the Special Counsel was appointed, and if the appointment was made based on the Fake Dossier (paid for by Crooked Hillary) and now disgraced Andrew McCabe (he & all stated no crime), then the Special Counsel should never have been appointed and there should be no Mueller Report. So, if there was knowingly & acknowledged to be zero crime when the Special Counsel was appointed, and if the appointment was made based on the Fake Dossier (paid for by Crooked Hillary) and now disgraced Andrew McCabe (he & all stated no crime), then the Special Counsel. Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 15, 2019 .should never have been appointed and there should be no Mueller Report. This was an illegal & conflicted investigation in search of a crime. Russian Collusion was nothing more than an excuse by the Democrats for losing an Election that they thought they were going to win.. Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 15, 2019 This was an illegal & conflicted investigation in search of a crime. Russian Collusion was nothing more than an excuse by the Democrats for losing an Election that they thought they were going to win. THIS SHOULD NEVER HAPPEN TO A PRESIDENT AGAIN, he added. ..THIS SHOULD NEVER HAPPEN TO A PRESIDENT AGAIN! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 15, 2019 Trumps comments come during speculation that Muellers investigationwhich began in May 2017is coming to a close and will submit a report to Attorney General William Barr. When that happens Barr will review the report and create his own report to send to Republican and Democratic leaders of the Senate and House Judiciary Committees. He can decide how much to reveal to Congress and the public to explain Muellers findings. During his confirmation hearing in January, Barr told the Senate Judiciary Committee his goal is to provide as much transparency as I can consistent with the law. I also believe it is very important that the public and Congress be informed of the results of the special counsels work, he said. Resolution to Release Final Report On March 14, the House passed a Democratic-backed resolution, 420-0, which calls for any final report in Muellers Russia investigation to be made public. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) tried to bring it up in the Senate hours after the House passage but was rejected by Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), who suggested a number of amendments should be added to the resolution. This includes appointing a new special counsel to investigate possible misconduct around the handling of the Clinton email investigation and the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) warrant process against Carter Page. Was there two systems of justice in 2016? One for the Democratic candidate and one for the Republican candidate? Graham said during his Senate address. Where the Republican candidates campaign had a FISA warrant issued against someone associated with it based on a document that was known to be unreliable [and] politically charged on four different occasions. In an interview on March 13, Graham told Fox News that there were two questions that needed to be answered in any future investigation. There are two questions that I think the public deserves an answer to: Did they short-circuit the Clinton e-mail investigation because they wanted her to win, and they knew if they charged her she might lose? Did they start the Russian investigation against Trump as an insurance policy in case he did win? Those are the two questions that Ill try to get you answers to, Graham said. Schumer objected to Grahams proposed amendments and the bill did not get a vote. The president has repeatedly criticized the special counsels investigation, calling it a Witch Hunt. Mueller has not brought any charges of collusion. It has, however, resulted in indictments for dozens of Russian nationals and companies as well as a number of former Trump associates. US Seizes 1 Million Pounds of Pork From China on Swine Fever Concern WASHINGTONU.S. border agents have seized about 1 million pounds of pork products from China, a spokesman for the agency said March 15, on suspicion that it might contain African swine fever disease which has hit Chinese pork output. Federal agents have seized the supplies over the past week in New York. The seizure was in an effort to battle the spread of African swine fever, Anthony L. Bucci, public affairs specialist at U.S. Customs and Border Protection, told Reuters over email. Asked if the seized pork had African swine fever, Bucci said, This is an ongoing investigation, and added that the federal agents were working with U.S. Department of Agriculture on the issue. China, home to the worlds largest hog herd, has reported 112 outbreaks of the highly contagious disease in 28 provinces and regions since August, with the vast majority found on farms, with one at a slaughterhouse. The disease can kill hogs in just two days, but isnt harmful to people. About 1 million pigs have been culled so far in an effort to try to control the spread. Hog prices in China hit their highest in 14 months this week as the spread of the disease reduces output. Meanwhile, U.S. officials decided to ramp up their fight to avoid the virus after Vietnam confirmed its first cases last month. The U.S. Department of Agriculture said it will add more dogs to sniff out illegal pork products at airports and seaports in an effort to keep out the contagious hog disease that has spread across Asia and Europe. China Makes Major US Pork Purchase China made its biggest purchases of U.S. pork in nearly two years last week, U.S. Department of Agriculture data showed on March 14, as Chinese hog prices surged after an outbreak of a deadly swine disease. Buyers in the worlds biggest hog producer and pork consumer struck deals for the meat despite import tariffs of 62 percent imposed by China on U.S. pork as a consequence of the trade war between the two countries. The duties had slashed Chinas imports of U.S. pork from companies such as WH Group Ltd.s Smithfield Foods since last summer. The sale of 26,286 tons of U.S. pork in the week ended March 7 comes after a months-long outbreak of African swine fever in China that has spread to 111 confirmed cases in 28 provinces and regions across the country since August 2018. They are going to need pork and lots of it, Dennis Smith, a commodity broker for Archer Financial Services in Chicago, said about China. The sales were the biggest to China since April 2017 and the third largest since the USDA began tracking pork export sales in 2013. The USDA didnt immediately respond to a request for comment about pork sales to China. Officials have previously said China may be underreporting hog deaths from African swine fever. China also recently resumed purchases of other U.S. farm products, including soybeans and sorghum, that face retaliatory import tariffs. President Donald Trump said March 14 the United States was doing well in trade talks with China, but that he couldnt say whether a final deal would be reached. Bob Brown, an independent U.S. livestock analyst, said U.S. pork prices have declined enough to offset Beijings tariffs. If they needed the stuff, we were the cheapest by far, he said. Chicago Mercantile Exchange May hog futures fell to a contract low last month. On March 14, the contract reached its highest price in more than two months, supported by increasing concerns about African swine fever in China. Chinese hog prices reached their highest in 14 months on March 11. Certainly, theres been a lot of focus on what hog prices are doing in China, said Altin Kalo, agricultural economist for New Hampshire-based Steiner Consulting. By Humeyra Pamuk and Tom Polansek White Nationalists Have Very, Very Serious Problems: Trump President Trump said that white nationalism is espoused by a small group of people who have very serious problems, on Friday, March 15. He made the comments after a mass shooting happened earlier that day in central Christchurch, New Zealand, where a white supremacist allegedly killed 49 people and wounded another 48 at two mosques. Trump rejected that white nationalism is a rising threat around the world, but said its followers have serious problems. I think its a small group of people that have very, very serious problems, he said. I guess if you look at what happened in New Zealand, perhaps thats the case. I dont know enough about it yet. Theyre just learning about the person and the people involved. But its certainly a terrible thing. Terrible thing. My warmest sympathy and best wishes goes out to the people of New Zealand after the horrible massacre in the Mosques. 49 innocent people have so senselessly died, with so many more seriously injured. The U.S. stands by New Zealand for anything we can do. God bless all! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 15, 2019 Brenton Harrison Tarrant, the suspect of the New Zealand terror attack, posted a 74-page manifesto on social media before the incident in which he identified himself as a 28-year-old Australian and white supremacist who was out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims. In the rambling manifesto, Tarrant made comments that allegedly praised Trump. However, the White House counselor Kellyanne Conway denounced the suspects unrequited statement strongly. Hes wrong, she told reporters at the White House. The shooter is an evil, hateful person. Hes wrong about that. Trump said on March 15 that he didnt see the manifesto himself. This is not the first time Trump has condemned white supremacists. In 2017, he condemned all extremist groups after white supremacists and other extremist groups involved in protests in Charlottesville, Virginia, left one person dead and scores more injured. The president said very strongly in his statement yesterday that he condemns all forms of violence, bigotry and hatred. Of course that includes white supremacists, KKK, Neo-Nazi and all extremist groups. He called for national unity and bringing all Americans together, a spokesperson said at the time. Mosque Shooter Admires Communist China and Fascism Though claiming to be a white nationalist, the mosque shooting suspect wrote that the country with values closest to his own is communist China, The Epoch Times reported. The nation with the closest political and social values to my own is the Peoples Republic of China, read the manifesto purportedly written by Tarrant. The author wrote that China [is] set to be the worlds most dominant nation in this century (sic), adding that its because the country is lacking diversity. He also described himself as an eco-fascist and mostly agree with Oswald Mosley, a British politician who became the leader of the British Union of Fascists. Some purportedly far-right individuals have expressed their support for Mosley in places like 8chan and 4chans /pol/. Sir Oswald Mosley is the person from history closest to my own beliefs, the author said, adding that they dont have much antipathy toward Jews. Were/are you an anti-semite? asks the author to himself. No. A jew living in Israel is no enemy of mine, so long as they do not seek to subvert or harm my people, he wrote. .that we stand in solidarity with New Zealand and that any assistance the U.S.A. can give, we stand by ready to help. We love you New Zealand! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 15, 2019 According to The Associated Press, the manifesto that was purportedly penned by Tarrant is similar to the one written by Norwegian mass killer Anders Behring Breivik. Magnus Ranstorp of the Swedish National Defense College told AP the New Zealand shooter is against mass immigration and has to some extent the same themes as Breivik, who posted a 1,500-page manifesto online before carrying out the 2011 attacks. The Associated Press and Epoch Times reporter Jack Phillips contributed to this report. From NTD News Jody Wilson-Raybould appears at the House of Commons Justice Committee on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick Wilson-Raybould Tells Constituents Shes Sticking With Liberals for 2019 Vote Jody Wilson-Raybould, the former cabinet minister who accused Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of trying to influence her decision in a criminal case against engineering firm SNC-Lavalin, has confirmed she intends to run as a Liberal in the next federal election. Trudeau disagrees with Wilson-Raybould's recounting of SNC-Lavalin events http://ow.ly/guwR50mhKxZ CityNews Winnipeg 2019227 In a letter to constituents posted to her website March 15, Wilson-Raybould said the explosive political saga has been a wake-up call for Canadians about the culture of conflict, empty partisanship and cynical games that exists in Ottawa. Nonetheless, she said, she plans to stand for re-election as a Liberal in the Vancouver-Granville riding next fall because she got into politics to change that cultureand still has plenty of work to do. Beyond partisanship, spin and image, there lies a politics of change that is driven forward by galvanizing our core valuesregardless of political stripeinto concrete laws, policies and actions that support Canada as an ever-advancing society, Wilson-Raybould wrote. She said she never expected to find herself thrust into the centre of a controversy that culminated last month in her resignation from cabinet. I was just doing my job and I did not expect it to become a national focus. Jody Wilson-Raybould former Assembly of First Nations Regional Chief, Crown Prosecutor, treaty commissioner and newly United 1ST Nations 2015114 Wilson-Raybould told the House of Commons justice committee that Trudeau and several members of his senior staff were part of a prolonged and co-ordinated effort to convince her to overrule a decision by the director of public prosecutions to proceed with a criminal trial against SNC-Lavalin on charges of bribery. Trudeau said he believed Wilson-Raybould was open to receiving additional information that could affect her decision, and directed his staff to provide that informationincluding the potential impact on SNCs 9,000 Canadian employees. He also wanted her to consider getting an outside legal opinion on the use of remediation agreements, a new tool in Canadian law that can avert a trial in exchange for fines and outside monitoring. The justice committee and the ethics commissioner are both investigating the allegations, the RCMP have been asked to investigate and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development has expressed its concern, saying it is monitoring the investigations. Wilson-Raybould resigned her cabinet seat Feb. 12, about a month after she was shuffled from Justice to Veterans Affairsa move she believes was precipitated by her refusal to change her mind about the SNC-Lavalin case, an allegation Trudeau has denied. SNC-Lavalin wins $800m EPC project in Mideast.SNC-Lavalin, a global engineering and construction group, has been Oil & Gas News 201632 She remains a Liberal MP, as does Jane Philpott, who resigned her cabinet post March 4 saying she had lost confidence in the way the Prime Ministers Office had handled the SNC affair. Trudeau has said he is still considering their future in the caucus. Both have already been nominated in their respective ridings by the Liberals. Thanks to Ottawas Mayor Jim Watson for inviting me to your International Womens Day event. Here are the notes from my Jane Philpott 201938 A spokesman for Trudeau said Friday the prime minister has not spoken with either Wilson-Raybould or Philpott in recent days and has no comment on Wilson-Rayboulds letter. Woman in Houston Gives Birth to Sextuplets, Two Sets of Twin Boys and One Set of Twin Girls The content is not available due to expiration. This upcoming week in the United Kingdom, the fuel cell industry holds an annual confab whose scheduled lineup of speakers includes a senior FuelCell Energy expert providing an overview of large-scale applications of the technology. As for his own company, which has designed and built the largest fuel cells ever en route to its golden anniversary marked in mid-March at its Danbury headquarters? Elusive still is the alchemy to achieving profitability, in the same steady state that its machines generate electricity with no noxious emissions. Even as it marked 50 years in business on Thursday, FuelCell Energy reported last month it had crossed the $1 billion mark for the accumulated deficit it has amassed in its history as a public company if strung out over its full history, amounting to $20 million a year on average in good years and bad. In the 1990s selling both stationary fuel cell power plants and nickel-zinc batteries, FuelCell and ERC had a string of years in which it eked out profits ranging up to $500,000. In 1998, however, FuelCell embarked on its current run of annual losses that reached a trough of $97 million in 2008, while never getting above a $30 million loss in any one year. The two-decade run of earnings futility that raises an obvious question: will FuelCell ever be able to find a path to profitability to justify it continuing as an independent company? And if not, what are the long-term implications for the clean-energy innovator that employs more than 400 people in its home state today? A builder and an operator A FuelCell spokesperson did not did not answer Hearst Connecticut Media questions on that front, but in recent conference calls with investors the company has suggested the companys path to sustained profitability lies in operating the fuel cell power plants it builds, in addition to manufacturing fuel cells and modules for sale to other entities. Fuel cells produce streams of electricity by passing hydrogen through stacks of coated membranes that siphon off electrons chemically. The hydrogen is then combined with oxygen to produce water as the main emission, along with heat that can be channeled for facility needs. The Wales scientist Robert William Grove is credited as being the first to demonstrate the process in 1838, and after more than a century of additional research, General Electric hit on breakthroughs with membrane coatings to produce sufficient electricity for fuel cells to be used on NASAs Project Gemini space expeditions in the 1960s. Bernard Baker and Martin Klein created FuelCells predecessor company in March 1969 as Energy Research Corp., with Baker having been introduced to fuel cell technology while on a Fulbright fellowship at the University of Amsterdam. There, Dr. G.H.J. Broers was experimenting with molten carbonate fuel cell technology designed to generate efficiencies by operating at more than 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit, with Baker using that as the springboard to starting the company that would become FuelCell. FuelCell, Bloom Energy and Doosan Fuelcell in South Windsor remain the three biggest U.S. makers of stationary fuel cell power plants today. With its heritage long rooted in its original molten carbonate heritage, in the past few years FuelCell has been working to develop solid oxide platforms, the specialty of San Jose, Calif.-based Bloom Energy. Bloom Energy went public last July, with its shares down 16 percent, with FuelCell shares down more than 70 percent over the same interval. A when question In a 300-page Battelle Memorial Institute analysis of the cost of fuel cells conducted on behalf of the U.S. Department of Energy, researchers identified what they determined to be the biggest driver of costs for the technology: insufficient demand to justify mass production, losing out on economies of scale that have benefited the solar panel and battery industries among others. Bottone suggested as much in a 2013 interview with the United Kingdom publication Quartz, quoted as saying its a when question, not an if question in his words to achieve profitability as FuelCell ramped up production. To do so, Bottone added at the time, FuelCell would have to have an annual production rate of systems producing 80 megawatts of electricity in any given year, with FuelCell manufacturing just 25 megawatts of systems in each of its two previous fiscal years ending in October. In January, an analyst with Cowen & Co. estimated that FuelCell spends between $5 million and $6 million today to manufacture and install its systems, as calculated on a per-megawatt basis, and that it sells them for between $6 million and $7 million a megawatt. But other costs apply, including future interest on loans FuelCell requires to finance the construction of a plant, and fuel cell modules become spent over time requiring new modules to be swapped in, at additional expense. FuelCell completed construction in 2014 of its largest single project to date, a facility in South Korea generating nearly 60 megawatts. Posco Energy assembled the fuel cells in South Korea under license from FuelCell, with the companies now in a legal spat over future sales rights in the region. The companys largest upcoming project is to produce fuel cells that will generate nearly 40 megawatts of electricity for the Long Island Power Authority, with installations to take place over multiple years. Hard to predict FuelCell has been in negotiations with Dominion Energy to buy back a 15-megawatt plant in had built in Bridgeport a megawatt provides power for the rough equivalent of 1,000 homes with the company also to operate a plant half that size in Groton on behalf of the U.S. Navy. With financial support from the U.S. government, FuelCell has spent the past few years exploring how its systems could operate in tandem with energy and industrial facilities that emit large amounts of carbon dioxide, which if captured and shunted into its systems could be rechanneled to generate electricity. The company has been working up a demonstration of the system with ExxonMobil, with one researcher at the energy giant describing the potential as a holy grail to helping it eliminate carbon dioxide emitted as exhaust at plants powered by natural gas. FuelCell has stepped up its patent activity the past several years, with about 40 applications currently before the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office after producing less than half that number over a decade through 2016. Last year, the company filed multiple patent applications that envision fuel cells used as components in a system to store excess energy generated by renewable power systems. On Triangle Street in Danbury not far from its headquarters, FuelCell is experimenting with a new design that configures a systems modules to glean full utilization of the fuel needed to generate electricity. But the company has yet to reveal any exponential leaps in technology that would represent an emphatic pivot to sustained profitability. The ... new order cycle continues to be hard to predict, Bottone said in early March on a conference call with investment analysts. We are actively working on a number of projects and are encouraged by the growing appreciation for the energy solution our fuel cells provide. Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulman STAMFORD The last time Stamford played host to a comic book storyline, a school was destroyed and hundreds lost their lives. So far, the City That Works is fully intact after one issue of Marvels new Meet The Skrulls series, but a family of shape-shifting aliens now call the city home. It is pretty cool, said Dave Kruseski, owner of Heroes Comics & Cards in Norwalk. Its always cool when something like that is a little more local. On page six of the first issue, released this month, one of the main characters who has transformed into a butterfly is shown flying back home over a Welcome to Stamford sign. The sign is not based on any in the city, and certainly bears no resemblance to the Welcome to Stamford signs near Interstate 95. The landscape behind it, however, suggests North Stamford, with its residential homes and trees, and no hint of the downtown skyline. Stamford readers of the comic book will recognize one landmark in a future issue. Robbie Thompson, the writer of Meet The Skrulls, said Avon Theatre will be featured in an upcoming issue. We do have a scene that takes place outside a movie theater, he said, in an emailed message. When artist Niko Henrichon was laying out that issue, (editor) Nick (Lowe) and assistant editor Kathleen Wisneski suggested using the beautiful Avon theater, which was perfect for the scene we have. Thompson said Stamford was selected as the Skrull familys home mostly due to its proximity to New York . In the original pitch for the series, we knew we wanted to set (it) in the suburbs, he wrote. And because we were going to include Tony Stark (Iron Man) and his company, we wanted the suburbs to be close to New York City. There was some talk of creating a small town, but the editor, Nick Lowe, suggested Stamford due to its connections to Civil War and it was the perfect fit. It evokes a clear sense of Marvels stories history and helps establish that the story has huge stakes. The Skrulls, who first appeared in 1962, have historically been portrayed as villains, and their inclusion in the new Captain Marvel movie has provided them a bit of a renaissance. I think theres a reason they brought the Skrulls out now, and it all kind of ties into (Captain Marvel), Kruseski said. The inaugural issue focuses mostly on the family dynamics of the protagonist Skrull family father Carl, mother Gloria, and daughters Madison and Alice who appear in public as humans but revert to their green-skinned Skrull form once sitting around a dinner table at home. During dinner, each member divulges what they accomplished during the day to thwart a top-secret initiative called Project Blossom, and everything seems to be going to plan until the youngest, Alice, reveals she broke one of the groups main rules. (If you want to know what it is, however, youll have to pick up a copy of the comic.) Stamfords biggest claim to fame in the comic book world is being the location of the incident that kicked off Marvels epic Civil War storyline in 2006, which was later adapted for the big screen as the blockbuster hit Captain America: Civil War in 2014, which changed many of the details, including the Stamford setting. Civil War, a major crossover narrative that included practically every major character in the Marvel Universe, and many of the companys comic book lines, was a 9/11 allegory that began with a faceoff between superheroes and villains that lead to a giant explosion, leveling much of Stamford and killing hundreds of innocent civilians, including children. The incident leads to a push to register and regulate superheroes, which divided heroes into two factions, those opposed and those in favor. One issue even depicted a sign from A Timeless Journey, a now-defunct comic book store that was in Stamford at the time, amid the post-explosion rubble. The suggestion to use Stamford in the Civil War story came from Marvel writer Jeph Loeb, who grew up near Riverbank Road and attended Riverbank Elementary School in the mid-1990s. A fictional school, Stamford Elementary School, is blown up in the story. The school was modeled after Loebs alma mater, now known as Mead School. Thompson said the new Skrulls-focused story wont be tied into the events of Civil War. Nonetheless, the city will seemingly have its hands full as the homebase for a family of shape-shifting intergalactic visitors. Thompson shared advice for Stamford residents who may come face-to-face with a Skrull next door. The Skrulls have a history of alien invasion so I would proceed with caution if they find one in the wild, he said. ignacio.laguarda@stamfordadvocate.com The 3rd annual citywide Norwalk Public Schools STEM Expo where projects included in this years Expo were selected from student and classroom work presented at individual STEM Expos perviously held throughout the district. Each K-8 classroom designed a team project focused on STEM with grades 9-12 responsible for individual presentations. Projects from various Norwalk High School and Brien McMahon student organizations were also selected to participate in the Expo. GLEN CARBON Trustees unanimously voted for the creation of a voluntary neighborhood surveillance camera registry during its village board meeting Tuesday. Glen Carbon Police Chief Todd Link made the request. He informed the board the registry would work similarly to those already in place in Edwardsville and OFallon. He added that images from OFallons registry recently enabled that citys police department to solve a bank robbery. The Glen Carbon Police Department seeks approval for this camera registry to work with our community to prevent and solve crimes, Link told Mayor Rob Jackstadt and the trustees. He emphasized that the registry is completely voluntary and will be restricted to exterior surveillance video only. Residents will be able to register their exterior video systems for free on the villages website later this month by completing an online form. Department officials will then compile a database of registered cameras that police officers and detectives will use with owner consent. Link again stressed this registry is voluntary and that property owners may opt out of the registry at any time. Nothing about this camera registry mandates release of video surveillance images in all circumstances, Link said. Release under this registry would take place with owner consent. The village public safety committee approved this effort at its Feb. 26 meeting. Reach Charles Bolinger at (618) 656-4700, ext. 31 Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Editorial Board (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, March 16, 2019 08:47 1000 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8233549 1 Editorial #Editorial,terrorism,terror-attack,Christchurch,New-Zealand,mosque-attack,bombing,Extremists Free Shock over a suicide bombing on Wednesday in North Sumatra had barely dissipated when news broke over shootings at mosques during Friday prayers in the peaceful city of Christchurch, New Zealand. We join our neighbors in grieving for the devastating loss of lives in incidents in which so many were wounded, including two Indonesians. Extremism is a clear and present danger to civilization, easily fueling hatred and prompting individuals to kill others, as evident in the gun attacks at two mosques in Christchurch. The police identified one perpetrator as Australian-born Brenton Tarrant, who wrote a manifesto containing white supremacist propaganda prior to the carnage. We can neither tolerate such barbarism nor can we accept any intent of revenge, as it will only perpetuate a cycle of violence. As we strive to come to terms with the unprecedented attack in New Zealand, a recent incident in North Sumatras Sibolga regency reminds us of last years chilling method of involving children in mass murder. The suicide bombing in Sibolga dealt a blow not only to our efforts to fight terrorism, but also to the idea that the nuclear family is without exception an anchor to a strong nation. Regardless of what motivated Solimah, the wife of terror suspect Husein aka Abu Hamzah, to detonate a bomb that killed her and her 2-year-old child on Wednesday, terrorists are clearly working to hijack the family institution to propagate their extremist ideologies. Last May, a family blasted three churches in Surabaya, East Java, and another family perpetrated a bomb attack in the citys police headquarters, while three members of a family were killed in an apartment in neighboring Sidoarjo after pipe bombs, which the police believed were planned for an attack, went off. Terrorists are willing to recruit their wives and children, demanding absolute loyalty from them as supporters and proteges. Husein, a regional leader of the Islamic State-affiliated Jamaah Ansharud Daulah (JAD) who was arrested Wednesday, is suspected to have followed such a model in spreading his teachings. The police said Husein had also planned for his second wife to become a suicide bomber. The police investigation found Husein had indoctrinated his late wife and their three grown-up children. While the crackdown on other members of the Husein-led group continues, we can only hope that the police immediately locate Huseins three teenage children, so as to save them from further exposure of radical teachings. The blasts in Sibolga and a series of arrests preceding and succeeding them should send a clear warning that terrorists remain in our midst and are waiting for the right time to strike. Though they may not necessarily have plans to disrupt next months general election, it is important to remain vigilant to prevent possible terror attacks. Stopping terror requires that we resist the nations growing intolerance that is being exploited for political purposes, defying the core values of our diverse nation. It is not an exaggeration to say that the family plays a key role in planting the seeds of tolerance in the minds of children at an early age. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Berlin Sat, March 16, 2019 19:07 1000 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee824427c 2 Environment polar-bear,Berlin,zoo,environment,Germany,wildlife Free Berlin's latest zoo celebrity, a fluffy polar bear cub, made her first tentative steps on the public stage Friday, with media hungry to anoint her the rightful successor to late lamented superstar Knut. Nuzzling her mother Tonja, taking a dip in a pool in her enclosure and sniffing the fresh air, the still unnamed three and a half month old seemed oblivious to the phalanx of cameras gathered for her coming-out at the Tierpark zoo in the east of the capital. Under grey skies, the cub splashed in the water, lolled on the grey stones outside the breeding burrow where she has lived since her birth on December 1 and gnawed on tree bark as she explored her new surroundings. Following her media photo-op, she will be presented to the public on Saturday. The mortality of polar bears tends to be very high in the first weeks. Tonja lost three of her cubs in less than two years. To the great relief of her keepers, the new female has made it through the crucial first three months when a captive cub's chances of survival hang in the balance. "We're very happy with her development," the zoo's polar bear vet Florian Sicks said in a statement. Read also: Animated film to spotlight bear that served in WWII Tierpark is hoping she will take the place in Germans' hearts once occupied by Knut, the universally adored polar bear born in 2006 and hand-reared by west Berlin zookeepers after being rejected by his mother. Knut's worldwide fame led to appearances on the cover of Vanity Fair magazine and on German postage stamps and brought in millions of euros from visits and merchandising. But the cuddly icon died suddenly of a suspected brain tumour in 2011 at the age of four, sparking grief amongst his army of fans. A bronze statue of Knut now stands in the west Berlin Zoo. Its Arctic habitat threatened by global warming, the polar bear is listed as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). A European Union breeding plan is attempting to boost numbers of the bear, whose population in the wild stands at around 26,000, according to the IUCN. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Ary Hermawan (The Jakarta Post) Ashfield, New South Wales Sat, March 16, 2019 09:15 1000 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8234709 1 Art & Culture #culture,#multiculturalism,#refugees,#immigrants,#Australia,#racism,#SyriaMigrants Free The Jakarta Post/A group of Indonesian journalists, including those from The Jakarta Post, were recently invited by the Australian government for a visit from Feb. 24 to March 2 to take a closer look at how multiculturalism works in the neighboring country. The following is the report. It had been exactly two years since Syrian-Armenian George Najarian stepped foot on Australian soil for the first time when The Jakarta Post and Indonesian journalists from other media met him at the Settlement Service International (SSI) head office in Ashfield, New South Wales, on Feb. 25. His face was brimming with joy when he told us that the day before he had had a flashback of how glad he was to be finally in Australia after years of living as a refugee in Lebanon with his family. As a Syrian refugee, George is among the luckiest, having been granted a refugee visa by the Australian government. Life, he said, was unbearable in Syria, which has been ravaged by years of bloody civil wars prolonged by conflicting foreign interests. George and his family lived in Aleppo, a densely populated city in Syria and key battleground city I remember one day there were explosions everywhere. Just when everything stopped, I went out to see what happened. I just walked down the street you could see all the destroyed buildings, the smoke, and you could see dead bodies everywhere, he said. They stayed in Aleppo for months without access to water or electricity before they decided to leave for Beirut. It wasn't easy living as a refugee. You are not allowed to work. You're not allowed to study, he said. Imagine living the life where you're not allowed to work and have to survive. George said that, unlike in Beirut, it was easy to start a new life in Australia. One of the reasons is that he received assistance from the Settlement Service International (SSI), a not-for-profit organization that aims to help newcomers They took me to register in an [English] language school. They also provided jobs. You can even work with them even though you dont have experience because, unfortunately, in Australia, its very difficult to have a job if you dont have experience, he said. George admitted, however, that while most of the Australians he met were welcoming, some were not. He said that during his two years living in Australia, he experienced one incident of racism. Racism, you can find it everywhere, he said. But this is also an opportunity for us as refugees to show to these people who discriminate us that, Yeah, Im a refugee. But Im a human like you. And this is something that that the people who are racist do not realize. Im a human. There is no difference between you and me, he said. He added that racial incidents in Australia were isolated cases that could not be used to generalize the whole country. SSI community engagement manager Trina Soulos concurred with George, saying it was unfortunate that prejudice and racism could be seen everywhere. She added that we could also see the opposite in the Australian community. If we look at the volunteer program, every month more than 300 people engage in volunteering with newcomers and I say that is a really heartening example of how members of the community are giving up their own time and resources to engage newcomers, she said. According to the Department of Immigration and Border Protection, Australia accepted 24,162 refugees and humanitarian migrants in 2016 and 2017. It was the highest intake since the beginning of the humanitarian program. The nation, however, is facing criticism over its offshore migrant detentions, with the United Nations accusing Canberra of human rights violations. The Australian government has denied the accusation, saying that regional processing and third-country resettlement arrangements are implemented in accordance with international law and with respect for human rights. There are no persons in detention under regional processing arrangements. Individuals with a legal right to be in Nauru and Papua New Guinea are free to move in and out of their accommodation without restriction, a spokesman from the Australian Embassy said. The spokesman added: Australias border protection policies aim to deter people from relying on people smugglers. These policies have allowed Australia to increase our Humanitarian Program to its largest intake in 30 years [18,750 places in 2018-19]. We have also resettled over 22,000 refugees fleeing conflict in Syria and Iraq since 2015. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Jessicha Valentina (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sun, March 17, 2019 06:01 999 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee824bfad 1 Art & Culture united-states,embassy,#embassy,architecture,#architecture,green-building Free Phase 1 of renovation of the United States Embassy in Jakarta is complete. A group of journalists, including those from The Jakarta Post, was invited Thursday to get a sneak peak of the facility located on Jl. Medan Merdeka Selatan, Central Jakarta. At the front of the compound are intricate metal threads that resemble woven fabrics. The metal exterior blocks sunlight while paying homage to Indonesian culture. Designed by New York-based architectural firm Davis Brody Bond and Arlington-based firm Page Southerland Page as the architect of record, the new building will utilize all available resources and minimize its impact on the environment. One of the things we really wanted to take into consideration was our impact on the environment and how we could be a more efficient and responsible partner to our host country, Indonesia, said Alexia Branch, the embassys deputy press attache. Branch mentioned that there were several energy-saving features in the building, such as automatic shades to block sunlight and a water catchment system. Read also: Five plant-covered buildings for greener environment The former works to minimize the impact of heat from sunlight, resulting in what is expected to be a decreased use of the AC system. The water catchment system reuses wastewater and storm water. The technology helps save around 30 percent of energy when compared with conventional buildings. With regard to Indonesian culture, the facility features a plethora of artwork made by local artists, such as batik designer Iwan Tirta and Balinese artist Sinta Tantra. One of the most interesting pieces is a replica of an Iwan Tirta batik located on the ground floor. Featuring a combination of the American bald eagle and parang rusak motifs, the batik reflects cooperation between the two countries. Moreover, the building also showcases artwork by American artists who were inspired by Indonesia, such the Confluence (Our Changing Seas V), a marine-themed installation by San Francisco-born ceramist Courtney Mattison, and an orangutan sculpture by Daisy Youngblood. Following the completion of phase 1, the embassy is currently working on phase 2, which includes a heritage building. The site is being reconstructed based on its original architecture, which is deemed important as it was where Indonesian delegations held negotiations with the Dutch prior to the transfer of sovereignty on Dec. 27, 1949. (kes) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Reuters) London Sat, March 16, 2019 12:00 1000 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8238034 2 People Prince-Harry,Meghan-Markle Free Britain's Prince Harry and his pregnant wife Meghan are to set up their own household, breaking away from the joint operation they shared with the Harry's elder brother William and his wife Kate, Buckingham Palace said on Thursday. Harry and Meghan, known officially as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have shared staff with William and Kate since their marriage in May last year. Queen Elizabeth has now agreed to allow them to set up a new base at Buckingham Palace this Spring. "The Duke of Sussex currently has his own private office, which has been supporting the Duchess since the engagement of Their Royal Highnesses in November 2017," Buckingham Palace said in a statement. "This long-planned move will ensure that permanent support arrangements for The Duke and Duchesss work are in place as they start their family and move to their official residence at Frogmore Cottage." British newspapers have reported since the end of last year that there had been a rift between the two couples, although there has been no public indication of any feud. Earlier this week, the foursome appeared on good terms when they appeared together at a Commonwealth Day service in London. Read also: George Clooney says Meghan being harassed just like Diana The change comes as former U.S. actress Meghan is due to give birth to her first child with the queen's grandson this Spring. The couple are also in the process of moving from a cottage in the grounds of Kensington Palace, where William and Kate live, to a new home on the royal familys Windsor Estate. After their dazzling wedding ceremony at Windsor Castle, the couple held the evening reception at Frogmore House, part of a royal family residence since the 18th century. Their new home, Frogmore Cottage, is on the grounds of the estate. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Reuters) Singapore Sat, March 16, 2019 06:35 1000 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8231b56 2 Science & Tech social-media,New-Zealand,shooting Free Social media giants Facebook, Twitter, Google faced scrutiny over extremist content on their platforms on Friday after video footage of mass shootings in New Zealand was live streamed and widely shared online. Footage of the attacks at two mosques, which left 49 dead in New Zealand's worst-ever mass shooting, was broadcast live to Facebook and then reshared by users on other platforms. Following the shootings, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube all said they were taking action to remove the videos. "Police alerted us to a video on Facebook shortly after the livestream commenced and we quickly removed both the shooters Facebook and Instagram accounts and the video," Facebook tweeted. "We're also removing any praise or support for the crime and the shooter or shooters as soon as were aware." Twitter said it had "rigorous processes and a dedicated team in place for managing exigent and emergency situations" such as this. "We also cooperate with law enforcement to facilitate their investigations as required," it said. Read also: Indonesia strongly condemns New Zealand mosque shooting Alphabet Inc's YouTube said: "Please know we are working vigilantly to remove any violent footage." But hours after the attack, copies of the footage were still available on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, as well as Facebook-owned Instagram and WhatsApp. The videos show the gunman driving to one mosque, entering it and shooting randomly at people inside. Reuters was unable to confirm the authenticity of the footage. Britain's interior minister said the companies needed to take more action. "You really need to do more @YouTube @Google @facebook @Twitter to stop violent extremism being promoted on your platforms," minister Sajid Javid wrote on Twitter. "Take some ownership. Enough is enough." You really need to do more @YouTube @Google @facebook @Twitter to stop violent extremism being promoted on your platforms. Take some ownership. Enough is enough https://t.co/GTSgRufOow Sajid Javid (@sajidjavid) March 15, 2019 Live streaming services have become a central component of social media companies' growth strategy in recent years, but they are also increasingly exploited by some users to livestream offensive and violent content. In 2017, a father in Thailand broadcast himself killing his daughter on Facebook Live. After more than a day, and 370,000 views, Facebook removed the video. That year, a video of a man shooting and killing another in Cleveland also shocked viewers. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, March 16, 2019 10:03 1000 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee82363f4 4 People Moazzam-Malik,Tri-Rismaharini,surabaya,Britain,Liverpool,Dr-Martens,shoes,Twitter Free British Ambassador to Indonesia Moazzam Malik recently shared his appreciation for Dr. Martens shoes, along with a compliment to Surabaya Mayor Tri Rismaharini. In a tweet posted on Thursday evening, he shared a photo of himself and Risma in a meeting, and both could be seen wearing the British brand footwear. Saya kira sepatu Dr Martens dipakai Ibu Risma jauh lebih keren dari pada sepatu Dr Martens saya. Bagaimana pendapat Anda? pic.twitter.com/1NnsfSoWGo Moazzam Malik (@MoazzamTMalik) March 14, 2019 The caption read, I think the Dr Martens shoes worn by Mrs. Risma are far cooler than my own. What do you think?. In the photo, Malik was seen wearing the Henley Oxford shoes, while Risma sported the 1460 classic boots while donning a mauve-colored kebaya and batik sarong. Both met in Surabaya, East Java, on Wednesday to discuss Surabaya and Liverpool's cooperation as sister cities, especially on the #EnglishforIndonesia education campaign, aimed at promoting studies based on the English-language. As reported by Antara news agency, Malik stated that he honored Risma for her efforts and innovations for Surabaya. Read also: Dr. Martens collaborates with Stussy to launch Penton Loafer We also plan to create a website for learning the English language, accessible to the public, he added. Founded in the 1960s, Dr. Martens footwear is recognized by its air-cushioned sole and yellow stitching. The shoes became popular among the British youth of the 60s when popular band members were spotted wearing them. Since then, it has flourished in various British subcultures throughout the 80s and 90s. After being at risk of bankruptcy in 2003, the brand came through in the early 2010s and remains one of the most well-known footwear brands. In February, Rismas fondness for Dr. Martens was first spotted by user @aslisuroboyo on Instagram. Risma was seen surveying rainwater puddles and sluice gates in Surabaya while wearing Dr. Martens boots. According to kompas.com, Risma tore her tendons in December while observing the citys waterways. She opted for the boots as they were considered firm and could help her recovery. The mayor has been seen sporting several Dr. Martens boots on different occasions, from the cherry red 1460 to the 14-eye 1914 ones. (wng) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, March 16, 2019 09:46 1000 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee823627c 2 National Papua,Nduga-massacre,Nduga,OPM,national-exam,Education Free Around 200 school students from many villages in conflict-ridden Nduga, Papua, may not be able to participate in the national exams this year following ongoing conflict between the Indonesian Military (TNI) and an armed group with ties to the Free Papua Movement (OPM) in the region. Around 200 students in the region may not be able to take the exam, Raga Kogeya, a humanitarian worker in the location, told reporters in Jayapura on Thursday, as quoted by Antara. He said that many students were living in tents in the yard of the Kemah Injili (Kingmi) Church of Papua. They are among the estimated 2,000 residents in Nduga who fled their homes after the conflict began in December, Raga said. He was referring to an ambush that killed dozens of construction workers and one soldier on Dec. 1 last year. The incident has led to the security authorities launching a military crackdown to hunt down the suspected perpetrators. Earlier this month, the TNI deployed 600 personnel to Nduga from Makassar, South Sulawesi, following the ambush on bridge workers by the militants. In February, the deputy regent of Nduga, Wentius Nimiangge, said the situation in the region was already under the local administrations control. He added that the students in the conflict zones, including Yuguru and Mbua, should take their exams in Kenyam district in Nduga. Raga said the children did not want to take the exams in Kenyam, but rather in Wamena, the main town of Jayawijaya, where they think it is much safer. They are still afraid when they see the military. They prefer to take the exam in Wamena, he said. (das) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Fachrul Sidiq (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, March 16, 2019 16:40 1000 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8240222 1 City Bekasi,commuter-line,commuter-trains,KCI,jasa-marga,toll-road,cashback Free State-owned toll road operator Jasa Marga is teaming up with commuter train operator PT Kereta Comuter Indonesia (KCI) to provide cash back to commuters who top up their multi-trip cards at selected stations in Bekasi, West Java. From March 18 until the end of April, commuters who top up by at least Rp 20,000 (US$1.41) at the Kranji, Cikarang and Bekasi stations during morning and afternoon rush hours, from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. every Monday, are to get Rp 10,000 in cash back. The move follows a good reception from the public to the #SenenDiOngkosin campaign, in which Jasa Marga cooperated with Transjakarta to provide free rides from the Summarecon bus stop in Bekasi to Jakarta every Monday until April to compensate for the worsening traffic on the Jakarta-Cikampek toll road caused by several simultaneous infrastructure construction projects. The reception to our cooperation with Transjakarta has been positive. We hope to see a similar outcome from our cooperation with KCI, Jasa Marga spokesperson Dwimawan Heru Santoso said in a statement on Friday. The move is also meant to encourage residents to use public transportation as Jakarta aims to increase public transportation ridership from the current 20 percent to 60 percent by 2029. Daily commuters from Bekasi contribute to Jakartas traffic gridlock, where the majority of vehicles travel at a speed of less than 20 kilometers per hour. KCI spokesperson Erni Sylvane Purba said the multi-trip card can also be used to purchase items at C-Corner shops and to pay parking fees at several commuter train stations. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, March 16 2019 Google Indonesia has enabled its clients to pay for advertisements in rupiah to assist those with Indonesian billing addresses. We have changed our policy to automatically charge our clients with Indonesian billing addresses in rupiah instead of US dollar, Google Indonesia managing director Randy Jusuf said on Friday, adding that Googles team would bill its clients themselves as part of its effort to provide a better service. Communications manager Jason Tedjasukmana added that the new billing policy would be applicable to all kinds of advertisements on the platform, including on YouTube. He said the company had effectively implemented its new policy this year following requests from its clients. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Sat, March 16 2019 Shock over a suicide bombing on Wednesday in North Sumatra had barely dissipated when news broke over shootings at mosques during Friday prayers in the peaceful city of Christchurch, New Zealand. We join our neighbors in grieving for the devastating loss of lives in incidents in which so many were wounded, including two Indonesians. Extremism is a clear and present danger to civilization, easily fueling hatred and prompting individuals to kill others, as evident in the gun attacks at two mosques in Christchurch. The police identified one perpetrator as Australian-born Brenton Tarrant, who wrote a manifesto containing white supremacist propaganda prior to the carnage. We can neither tolerate such barbarism nor can we accept any intent of revenge, as it will only perpetuate a cycle of violence. As we strive to come to terms with the unprecedented attack in New Zealand, a recent incident in North Sumatras Sibolga regency reminds us of last years chilling method of involving children in mass murder. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Agnes Anya (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, March 16, 2019 19:07 1000 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8244169 1 World mosque-attack,Indonesian,New-Zealand,mosque,terror-attack,terrorism Free An Indonesian national identified as Muhammad Abdul Hamid or Lilik Abdul Hamid was among the 49 worshippers killed by a right-wing extremist at a mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand, the Foreign Ministry has said. The ministry said it received the information from the management of Al-Noor Mosque where an extremist, identified as Brenton Tarrant, opened fire during Friday prayers, killing 41 people at the site. He then rampaged through another mosque, killing seven people. Another worshipper succumbed to wounds at the hospital. "Soon after getting the confirmation, Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi contacted Ibu Nina, the deceased's wife," the ministry said in a statement released on Saturday. The government conveyed its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and would provide needed assistance, the statement said. Earlier on the day, Retno said on her Twitter account @Menlu_RI that she had a phone call with her New Zealand counterpart Winston Peters to convey Indonesia's condolences and sympathy. "I reiterated Indonesia's strong condemnation of the terrorist attack in Christchurch," she said. "I offered any assistance needed by New Zealand in this time of sorrow." According to the ministry's data, eight Indonesians were at the two New Zealand mosques when the shootings happened. Five were able to escape, two were injured and another, Muhammad Abdul Hamid, was killed. Editor's note: The article has been updated to clarify the number of Indonesians at the two New Zealand mosques when the shootings happened. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, March 16 2019 Around 200 school students from many villages in conflict-ridden Nduga, Papua, may not be able to participate in the national exams this year following ongoing conflict between the Indonesian Military (TNI) and an armed group with ties to the Free Papua Movement (OPM) in the region. Around 200 students in the region may not be able to take the exam, Raga Kogeya, a humanitarian worker in the location, told reporters in Jayapura on Thursday, as quoted by Antara. He said that many students were living in tents in the yard of the Kemah Injili (Kingmi) Church of Papua. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Nurul Fitri Ramadhani (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, March 16, 2019 16:25 1000 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee823ed5b 1 Politics PPP,Romahurmuziy,graft,2019-legislative-election,2019-presidential-election,political-party Free The United Development Party (PPP) will suspend chairman Muhammad Rohamurmuziy after the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) officially charged him with bribery on Saturday. Romahurmuziy, an ally of President Joko Jokowi Widodo, was arrested on graft charges in East Java on Friday. The KPK accused him of involvement in bribery centering on the promotion process at the Religious Affairs Ministry. The Islamic partys central executive board will hold a meeting on Saturday evening to appoint an acting chairman. Romahurmuziy was supposed to end his tenure as party chairman in 2021. Our internal regulation stipulates that if a member is suspected of involvement in extraordinary crimes, she or he could be removed or suspended. Since he is a chairman, there will be an acting chairman who will be inaugurated in a special national working meeting in the near future, PPP secretary-general Arsul Sani told reporters on Saturday. He said the party did not rule out the possibility of holding a national congress to elect a new chairman. Romahurmuziy, he added, was also likely to lose his position within Jokowis campaign team. Arsul called on the partys rank and file to respect the legal process involving Romahurmuziy and refrain from taking any action that could be considered an obstruction of justice. Romahurmuziy, who is also the chairman of the PPP faction at the House of Representatives, was arrested along with four suspects comprising ministry officials and private sector employees in different raids in East Java. From the operation, the KPK confiscated a sum of money that was allegedly exchanged in connection with the staffing case. The PPP, the countrys oldest Islamic party but the smallest faction at the House, is a member of the ruling coalition and endorses Jokowis reelection bid. Romahurmuziys arrest is a blow to both the PPP and Jokowi, with the legislative and presidential elections only a few weeks away. Pollsters say the PPP is a political party that could fail to pass the minimum threshold required to enter the House. We are hoping that this incident will not affect our electability, but it is our responsibility to consolidate all members in the regions. We believe that with good and intense communication, we can reach our target to pass the parliamentary threshold, Arsul said. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Agnes Anya and Nurul Fitri Ramadhani (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, March 16 2019 Black Friday: Congregation members grieve following a shooting at Al Noor mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand, on Friday. At least one gunman killed 49 people and wounded more than 40 during Friday prayers at two New Zealand mosques.(Reuters/SNPA/Martin Hunter) Indonesia has strongly condemned terror attacks on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, that killed at least 49 people and injured dozens of others, including an Indonesian father and his 2-year-old son. Indonesia strongly condemns these acts of violence. I convey my deepest condolences to the victims of the acts, President Joko Jokowi Widodo said in North Sumatra on Friday. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Glenda Kwek (Agence France-Presse) Christchurch, New Zealand Sat, March 16, 2019 16:48 1000 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8240e83 2 World Christchurch,terrorism,shooting,New-Zealand,attack,mosque-attack Free A few months ago, Christchurch's Linwood Mosque proudly laid down new carpets in its halls. On Friday, the light brown carpets were stained red after an gunman stormed the building, spraying bullets at worshippers. "There was blood everywhere. Everything was out of control," Ibrahim AbdelHalim, imam of Linwood Mosque, told AFP. Like the wider Muslim community in Christchurch, Egypt-born AbdelHalim is struggling to come to terms with the violence wrought upon worshippers this week as he waits to bury the dead. Working together with the local Islamic community, AbdelHalim had sought to refresh the mosque after a trust bought it over in early 2018. Some of the seven worshippers who died at Linwood were among the most enthusiastic contributors, donating their personal time to help in fundraising efforts. One woman, a local Kiwi, fell down beside his wife when she was shot dead, AbdelHalim said. His wife, Falwa El-Shazly, was shot in the arm but survived the attack. Another man, a Fijian-Indian New Zealander who would regularly bring boxes of food from his restaurant during mosque donation drives, was also killed. "They are dear to me, these are people who offer to us work for free," AbdelHalim said. "It was a very bad day, not just all of us, all of New Zealand." At Hedley College, the main meeting centre for the survivors and victims' families, local Muslims from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds shared wordless hugs and fought back tears as they exchanged news about their loved ones. With Muslims making up just one percent of New Zealand's population, some members of the close-knit community raced to the mosques when they heard about the shootings. "I did not go to the prayer yesterday due to work... but received a call from my friends and rushed to the spot," Mohammad Kamruzzaman, originally from Bangladesh, told AFP. "Five of (our Bangladeshi friends) are still missing, only Allah knows where they are. We have lost... a guardian lady for our community, who taught children the Koran for free. It feels like we have lost a parent." Fiji-born Azan Ali, 43, who was in the Linwood Mosque with his Auckland-based father when the attack occurred, trembled when he thought back to crack of the gun shots on Friday. "Will I see my parents, my kids, my loved ones again or not? All the people you pray with, you see beside you..." he added, his voice trailing off. "My kids are scared, you know. You just have to work through it as a community." His father, Sheik Aeshad, who saw a worshipper shot in the neck, said he could not understand how such violence could take part in New Zealand, a small nation better known for its rolling, green hills and snow-capped mountains. "We never thought in New Zealand, this could happen. New Zealand's so friendly a place, you can leave your door open and go. But not now," he added. "I'm thinking what's going to happen the next time... it could be more people targeting somewhere else." It was a sentiment shared by Sahra Ahmed, a New Zealander of Somali origin and a nurse active in her local community. Sahra said the attacks showed the South Pacific island nation could not escape the global wave of right-wing extremism. "This is a global movement, for better or worst, it's happened in all parts of the world. And some people like to import ideas from everyone else. So we're not immune from what's happening," she told AFP. "It doesn't matter where you go, the world is very small." Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, March 16, 2019 14:06 1000 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee823a1bf 1 News Contiki,seven-wonders-of-the-world,travel,#travel,millennials Free Contiki, a travel company that caters exclusively to people 18 to 35 years old, is introducing an extraordinary offer, reports Travel + Leisure. If you book Contikis new worldwide trip, the travel company is offering to pay your rent while you go visit all seven wonders of the world on a two-month journey. The idea is simple with the launch of its new Jordan and Israel trip, Contiki now visits all seven New Wonders of the World, each on a different trip, a representative for the company told Travel + Leisure in a statement, mentioning Machu Picchu, the Colosseum and the Great Wall. As long as your age meets the given requirements you can book all seven trips for two months of insane, around-the-world travel, visiting the most iconic sites, and Contiki will cover their rent while abroad. However, take note of the fine print: The trip around the world through Contiki starts at US$13,610. Expenses for international flights, transportation, accommodations, or meals between trip itinerary items are not included. With Contiki offering to pay your rent while you go on the trip-around-the-world bought from it, you may expect a total savings of up to $2,840. This amount of money is based on the US national average of two months rent as of Feb. 4, according to Contiki. In case your monthly rent is lower than this amount, you cannot redeem the balance for cash or in-kind benefits. Read also: Delete your Instagram pictures to win a year of free flights To secure the deal you need to submit a rental agreement or proof of monthly payments prior to the discount being applied. Those between the ages of 18 and 35 years who hesitate to travel because they have paid a year's rent in advance can now pack their bags. The travel company seems to understand that most millennials and gen-Xers have at least one of the wonders of world on their 2019 bucket lists. Now you can check them all off. (sop/mut) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, March 16, 2019 21:08 1000 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8246f06 1 News Japan,tourism,foreign-tourists,tourists,destination,travel Free As a result of untoward incidents, certain tourist areas in Japan have begun to refuse admittance to foreign tourists traveling in groups, reports The Asahi Shimbun. In order to protect its holy place, housing a large bronze statue of Buddha, Nanzo-in Temple in Sasaguri, Fukuoka Prefecture reportedly decided to install signs in 12 languages saying that non-Japanese travelers are not allowed to enter. Kakujo Hayashi, 65, chief priest of Nanzo-in, mentions that the inappropriate behavior started about 10 years ago when large numbers of tour buses began to arrive at the temple. Noise, people climbing the roof of a temple building and inappropriate behavior upset worshippers. Read also: Kyoto aiming to disperse crowds amid fears of 'overtourism' In May 2016 the travel ban for non-Japanese groups in Nanzo-in was adopted. However, people traveling alone are still allowed to visit the temple given that individuals and small groups usually display better behavior. Travel agencies have been informed in order to delete advertising information about Nanzo-in. Businesses are also suffering from tourists poor behavior as well. After becoming bothered by the rude manners of foreign travelers, a pub owner in Kyoto posted a no foreigners sign. An increased number of cruise ship visits and overcrowding have also caused trouble. We basically will not refuse anyone who wants to visit the shrine but would like visitors to understand the minimum required manners, said Masataka Takehara, a senior priest at Yatsushirogu shrine in Yatsushiro, Kumamoto Prefecture, which in 2017 closed its doors to all visitors during the scheduled arrival of cruise ships at a port nearby. Amid the overcrowding issues, the Japanese government is currently still aiming to increase the number of foreign visitors to Japan to 40 million by 2020. However it recently conducted surveys about problems faced by tourist destinations in the country. (sop/kes) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sun, March 17, 2019 05:02 999 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee824bc36 4 News Mount-Gede-Pangrango,Situ-Gunung-suspension-bridge,travel,destination,bridge,West-Java Free Visitors to West Java may want to plan a visit to a suspension bridge said to be the longest of its kind in Southeast Asia Located at Situ Gunung Tourist Park, which is part of Mount Gede Pangrango National Park, the bridge is 243 meters long, 1.2 meters wide and 107 meters high. Named Situ Gunung Suspension Bridge, the 80-ton bridge made of merbau wood was officially opened by Coordinating Maritime Affairs Minister Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan on March 9. It was built by PT Fontis Aqua Vivam in collaboration with the national park, with the project starting in May 2017. Read also: West Java launches website, apps for Bandung tourists Open to the public, the bridge is accessible from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and offers breathtaking views of the lush forest. According to kompas.com, the ticket price starts from Rp 50,000 (US$3.50) per person and visitors will need to walk around 600 meters to reach the entrance gate. The entrance ticket includes access to Lake Situ Gunung as well. People who wish to cross the bridge are required to wear a safety belt provided at the entrance gate. Equipped with a hook, the belt can be attached to the handrail in case of turbulence. A staff member is on standby in the middle area to help people cross the bridge. After visiting the suspension bridge, visitors can continue their journey to the Curug Sawer (Sawer Waterfall), which is 1 kilometer away, or explore the area's camping ground and amphitheater. (wir/kes) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Panca Nugraha (The Jakarta Post) Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara Sat, March 16, 2019 08:08 1000 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8232cb5 1 News cruise-ship,West-Lombok,Lombok,West-Nusa-Tenggara,tourism,travel,destination,Sun-Princess Free Lembar Port in West Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), welcomed luxury cruise ship the Sun Princess, which departed from Darwin Port in Australia, on Friday. "The ship brought around 2,191 tourists and 855 crew members," the general manager of state-owned port management company Pelindo III in Lembar, Erry Ardiyanto, told The Jakarta Post. The cruise ship arrived at Lembar Port at 6:15 a.m. local time, and continued its journey to Phy My Port in Vietnam at 6 p.m. the same day. Erry said the administration had made efforts to attract more visitors, especially cruise ship passengers, to explore the region. Read also: West Nusa Tenggara denies reports of canceled cruises to Lombok "The arrival of these thousands of tourists will surely bring a positive impact to the rise of tourism on Lombok," he added. NTB Tourism Agency head Lalu Moh Faozal said that the passengers were offered tourism packages by local tour operators that included visits to Pura Narmada Park, Pura Mayure Park, Gili Trawangan and Gili Nangu. Lombok would welcome 26 cruise ships from various countries throughout the year, said Faozal. The Sun Princess is the fifth cruise ship to arrive in Lombok since January. (kes) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Sat, March 16, 2019 16:38 1000 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee823fd40 2 News BTS,travel,K-pop,#KPop,tourist-pass,Seoul,tourism,South-Korea Free BTS fans visiting Seoul may want to look up a special limited-edition tourist pass that features the boy band on the card. The honorary ambassadors of Seoul, BTS are now also the faces of the city's Discover Seoul Pass. Priced at KRW 39,900 (US$35.2), the pass is valid for 24 hours and offers admission to 35 major attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace, MBC World, the Coreana Cosmetics Museum and sightseeing tours on double decker buses. Passholders also get discounts at duty-free stores, restaurants, and attractions like the Hello Kitty Island in N Tower and the Seoul Zoo & Sky Lift. The boy band's worth to South Korea's economy has been pegged at a whopping $3.6 billion a year the equivalent of 26 mid-sized companies contributing to the local economy. Read also: K-pop ads taking over Seoul subway In 2018, the septet became the first K-pop band to top the US album charts, affirming their global popularity. According to the Hyundai Research Institute's report, some 800,000 tourists are believed to have traveled to South Korea in 2017 because of their love for the band. That's equal to more than seven percent of the total visitors to the country. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, March 16, 2019 13:04 1000 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8238b50 4 News Apple-Developer-Academy,Apple-stores,science-and-technology Free Industry Minister Airlangga Hartarto expressed his pride that Indonesian students created two apps that have been selected to be available on the App Store. The students graduated from the Apple Developer Academy. What I can say regarding the apps introduced by the graduates of the Apple Developer Academy is pride, said Airlangga in Tangerang, Banten, on Tuesday. According to Antara, the minister said he was optimistic that the 166 students who were at the graduation ceremony would contribute to the development of the electronic and telematics industry in Indonesia. Apples vice president of environment, policy and social initiatives, Lisa Jackson, said the applications presented by the students were very inspiring. She added the students at the academy, which is in Jakarta, really inspired her. The two selected apps are called Helian and Khairan. Helian is a shareable medical record app designed for giving care at retirement homes. It will help caregivers track daily activities, set reminders and share patients important statuses with fellow caregivers when needed. Meanwhile, Khairan is an app to help the community of visually impaired Muslims to identify kiblah when they are going to pray. Read also: Indonesian app creator receives South Korean innovation award During the occasion, the students also introduced other apps, such as Koda, for instance, that helps jobseekers practice interviews in Indonesian. The app will give feedback on the speed of speech, eye contacts and sound. There is also an app named Nadi that helps to find a matching blood donor in emergency situations. Meanwhile, Talo connects travelers with limited time to experts at the destination for unusual cultural experiences and other adventures. Last but not least, an app named Ainun helps the visually impaired to identify rupiah bills, and it is developed to become an app for everyone to identify fake money using additional UV light. (mut) 1 hour ago EXPLAINER: Why US inflation is so high, and when it may ease WASHINGTON (AP) Inflation is starting to look like that unexpected and unwanted houseguest who just wont leave. For months, many economists had sounded a reassuring message that a spike in consumer prices, something that had been missing in action in the U.S. Read Article Four Egyptian nationals were among the 49 victims of mass shootings at two New Zealand mosques on Friday, Cairo has said. Minister of Immigration and Expatriate Affairs Nabila Makram, in cooperation with the Egyptian Ambassador to New Zealand Tariq Al-Wasimi, made the announcement on Sunday, according to a ministry statement. Al-Wasimi said that the Egyptian mission had communicated with the relevant New Zealand authorities and been told that there were four Egyptian dead, whose bodies were in the hospital. The embassy has contacted their families. The four, all male, were named by the ambassador as Munir Suleiman (68 years old), Ahmad Jamal al-Din Abdul-Rahman (also 68), Ashraf Morsi, and Ashraf Al-Masri. The ages of the latter two victims were not stated. Forty-nine people were killed and twenty injured after gunmen opened fire at the two mosques during Friday prayers. The New Zealand authorities described it as a terrorist attack. A suspect appeared in court on Saturday morning charged with murder. The Egyptian ambassador added that the nationalities of the injured had not yet been confirmed. He said that measures have been put in place to assist the families of the victims, and burials are expected to begin on Tuesday. Website, phone numbers to track victims Makram said in the statement that the New Zealand government had allocated a website to register missing persons from the event as follows: https://familylinks.icrc.org/new-zealand/en/Pages/Home.aspx. The associated phone number is 0800 115 019 or +64 3 353 4532 for international calls. She also confirmed the presence of a specialist team in Christchurch from the embassy. The New Zealand government announced during a conference this morning it is prepared to transfer the bodies of the victims to their country of origin. The ministry is also able to receive inquiries from the families of the missing in the incident via e-mail. These inquiries will be sent directly to the Egyptian Embassy in New Zealand. The e-mail address is: [email protected] Search Keywords: Short link: The right to bear arms. The right to a fair and speedy trial by jury. The right to flick of the cops. According to a March 13 ruling in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit, a Taylor police officer violated a womans constitutional rights by upgrading a traffic ticket after she gave him the old one finger salute. In June 2017, officer Matthew Minard stopped Debra Cruise-Gulyas for speeding. Rather than handing her a speeding ticket, though, he wrote her up for a non-moving violation a lesser offense. Nevertheless, as Cruise-Gulyas pulled away, she gave Minard the finger. At this point, Minard stopped her again, bumping the ticket to a moving violation a more serious offense. Cruise-Gulyas decided to sue Minard for unspecified damages, alleging that the second stop violated her constitutional rights to freedom of speech, the right to due process and protection from illegal search and seizure. In court, Minard claimed qualified immunity, which protects police from personal liability unless they violate a persons clearly established constitutional or statutory rights. The three-judge panel dismissed this claim in a 3-0 decision, saying the officer didnt have probable cause for the second stop. To justify that stop, Minard needed probable cause that Cruise-Gulyas had committed a civil traffic violation, or reasonable suspicion that she had committed a crime, Judge Jeffrey Sutton wrote in the decision. He could not rely on the [first] driving infraction to satisfy that requirement. As a result, the judges said, Minard violated Cruise-Gulyas Fourth Amendment rights by pulling her over a second time. According to the decision, Minard did not argue that Cruise-Gulyas gesture violated the law, instead arguing that the law did not clearly prohibit him from stopping her a second time. The case will now move back to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, from where it was originally appealed. Karl Ziomek, spokesperson for the city of Taylor, deferred statements on the matter to Minards lawyer, Mark Peyser. Peyser did not immediately respond for comment. Almost 50k people register in Phuket for early voting PHUKET: At total of 49,324 people will cast their votes in Phuket in the early voting tomorrow (Mar 17) ahead of the national election to be held next weekend, the Phuket office of the Election Commission (PEC) has announced. politics By The Phuket News Saturday 16 March 2019, 02:08PM Early voting will take place tomorrow (Mar 17) ahead of the national election next weekend (Mar 24). Image: PEC Nationwide, in total 2,632,935 people have registered to cast their votes in the early voting tomorrow, PEC Director Nutthawat Wongitsaraphap explained in a release issued yesterday. Of those, 49,324 people have registered to cast their votes in Phuket, he said. A total of 48,980 people casting their votes tomorrow are those living in Phuket but who have not officially changed their registered address as living on the island, Mr Nutthawat explained. A further 344 people registered as living in Phuket but who want cast their votes early have also registered, he added. People living in Phuket but casting votes for candidates in their home provinces had to register to cast their votes at one of two locations in Phuket, Mr Nutthawat explained. Those who registered to cast their votes in Phuket Constituency 1 will be able to do so at Phuket Community Hall on Damrong Rd, in Phuket Town, where 35,085 people have registered to cast their ballots, he said. Those who registered to cast their votes in Phuket Constituency 2 will be able to do so at Thalang Pranangsang School on Thepkrasattri Rd in Thalang, where 13,895 people have registered to cast their ballots, he added. A total of 7,135 Nakhon Sri Thammarat registered citizens living in Phuket have registered to cast their votes in Phuket tomorrow, ahead of 4,349 Trang natives and 3,822 registered citizens from Songkhla. Phuket has 294,424 registered voters among its registered population of 402,017, Mr Nutthawat said. Only 344 of those registered to vote early, he noted, with 220 registered to cast their votes for Phuket Constituency 1 candidates and the remaining 124 to cast their votes early for Phuket Constituency 2 candidates. Phuket Constituency 1 comprises Mueang District, including Rassada, but excluding Koh Kaew and Rawai. Phuket Constituency 2 comprises the remaining areas of Thalang and Kathu Districts, but also includes Koh Kaew, Rawai and Karon. Polling booths for Phuket Constituency 1 will be set up at Phuket City Municipality Meeting Hall on Narisorn Rd. Polling booths for Phuket Constituency 2 will be set up at Ban Sapam School, Thalang Pranangsang School and Kathu Wittaya School. Patong taxi driver surrenders, charged for street slaying PHUKET: A taxi driver wanted for shooting dead another taxi driver in broad daylight at a taxi rank on Phra Metta Rd, Patong, has handed himself in to police. patongtourismtransportmurderhomicidedeathviolenceSafetypolicecrime By Eakkapop Thongtub Saturday 16 March 2019, 04:30PM LEFT: Patong taxi driver Pharadon Poochayan, 48, at Patong Police Station yesterday (Mar 15). RIGHT: Pharadon Poochayan, as pictured on his arrest warrant. Photos; Patong Police Police began the hunt for the suspect, 48-year-old Pharadon Poochayan, since the fatal shooting on Mar 7 after witnesses reported seeing Pharadon drive off in a pickup truck after losing a fight with 45-year-old Songpon Suwansa-ard, who works at the same taxi rank. Pharadon is believed to have returned with a gun and shot Songpon. CCTV footage from the scene shows the shooting, but the killers face is not clearly seen. Pharadon handed himself into police yesterday afternoon (Mar 15), Patong Police Chief Col Anotai Jindamanee told The Phuket News today (Mar 16). He came to Patong police station with a lawyer. He refused to talk to the police about the case. He requested to talk about the case with the court only, he said. Patong Police Chief Investigator Lt Col Watcharaphong Praiprunnarong questioned Pharadon and took him into custody. "We had him detained in a cell at the police station, Col Anotai said. We transferred him today (Mar 16) to be held in the cells at Phuket Provincial Court. We opposed bail because it is a serious case and we fear that Pharadon might threaten witnesses, Col Anotai explained. The court agreed and denied Pharadon to post bail and he was taken to Phuket Provincial Prison to await trial, he added. Police charged Pharadon with premeditated murder and carrying a firearm in a public area without permission and without reasonable cause. Additional reporting Waranya Prompinpiras Phuket officials turn to satellites for marine safety PHUKET: Phuket Vice Governor Supoj Rotreuang Na Nongkhai this week held a meeting with the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) to discuss the development of an information system that will gather data to assist with marine activity in a bid to prevent future marine disasters. tourismmarineSafetyaccidentsdeathdisastersenvironmentnatural-resources By The Phuket News Saturday 16 March 2019, 11:00AM The news was revealed at a meeting earlier this week. Photo: PR Dept The news was revealed at a meeting earlier this week. Photo: PR Dept V/Gov Supoj presided over the meeting held at Phuket Provincial Hall on Wednesday (Mar 12). Following the meeting, V/Gov Supoj announced that authorities will work together with GISTDA in developing the system that will benefit the tourism industry as well as the island as a whole. V/Gov Supoj announced in a statement on Wednesday, We held a meeting with relevant government departments and GISTDA in which it was agreed that a working group would be set up, led my myself, in order to provide GISTDA with what is required to build an advanced solution for marine safety in Phuket. GISTDA aims to provide Phuket with the ability to prevent and resolve marine disasters in the most efficient manner with the use of modern satellite technology. Monitoring stations will be installed in the Phuket Marine Office on Chalong Pier, linked to the marine traffic control system (VTMS), V/Gov Supoj said. Direct access to such data will enable Phukets marine rescue services to locate victims of marine accidents efficiently, as well as providing city data analysis and monitoring waste water. The Vice Governor spoke of the reasons behind the project, sighting the tourism industry as a key factor. Phuket is a province that is very popular among tourists from all over the world. In 2018, more than 14 million tourists arrived in Phuket, generating over B300 billion in revenue, he said. It is ranked second in Thailand after Bangkok and is one of the top 10 cities in the world to travel to according to MasterCards 2018 Global Destination Cities lndex. However in July, 2018, Phuket had a very serious marine disaster which killed 47 Chinese tourists and we must prevent such occurrences from happening again, he stressed. Earlier in the week, the government announced that Phuket has been allocated as a city that will be transformed into a smart city an urban area that uses different types of electronic data collection sensors to supply information which is used to manage assets and resources efficiently. (See story here.) Back in 2008, Thailand had its own satellite, developed at the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS), launched into space. The satellite has been used to observe natural resources in the country by gathering information to be used by both the government and public for research and mapping. The THEOS (Thailand Earth Observation Satellite) missions were conducted to observe agriculture sites, the production of agricultural crops, forest demolition, forest types, shrimp farms, water pollution from oil leaks, water sources, community areas, illegal farms, disaster areas, and for city planning. The information that is gathered from the satellite can also be sold to other countries. On March 24, 2014, THEOS captured images showing some 300 objects in close proximity to the suspected crash site of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370, in the Indian Ocean. Police warn of election alcohol bans Phuket Provincial Police have cautioned business operators that the national election on Mar 24 and the early voting to be conducted tomorrow (Mar 17) will see two bans on the sale of alcohol over this weekend and next weekend. Saturday 16 March 2019, 02:48PM The ban on the sale of alcohol is mandatory by law. Image: Patong Municipality There will be a 24-hour ban on the sale of alcohol from 6pm on Saturday, Mar 16 until 6pm on Sunday, Mar 17, for the early voting, and there will be another 24-hour ban from 6pm on Mar 23 until 6pm on Mar 24 for the national election, Phuket Provincial Police Deputy Commander Col Sermpan Sirikong told The Phuket News. The ban on the sale of alcohol is mandatory by law. Police will enforce it that same as we do for the five Buddhist religious days throughout the year on which the sale of alcohol is also banned by law, he added. I believe that foreign tourists will understand that this is law must be followed. When people travel to a foreign country, we must comply with the laws of that country, Col Sermpan said. The election alcohol bans are enacted by Section 147 of the Organic Act on the Election Commission, B.E. 2018, which states, Any person who sells or distributes liquor of any kind in the election area between 6pm on the day before the election day until 6pm of the election day shall be punished with imprisonment not exceeding 6 months or a fine not exceeding 10,000 baht or both. The law was enacted on Sept 12, 2018, replacing the provisions under the previous version of the Election Act, under which alcohol bans on election days were from 6pm the night before through to midnight of the day of the election. Southern Pines, NC (28387) Today Cloudy with a few showers. High 57F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%.. Tonight Overcast. Low near 50F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. For Subscribers Supply chain issues concern retailers as trucks keep hauling The world begins to get back to some sense of normalcy, retailers and manufacturers are struggling to get the goods they need to conduct business. Air Canada suspending all financial guidance for 2019 in the wake of Boeing 737 Max grounding has yet to rattle analysts in their first take. Shares of the Montreal-based carrier have pared much of their earlier 2.9 per cent decline, and BMO thinks the event is a short-term issue. Peer WestJet Airlines Ltd. fell as much as 2.1 per cent intraday. We believe lower capacity drives unit costs higher in the short term while the ability to improve yields is usually delayed and as such we continue to see this as a short term issue and would buy on weakness, BMO analyst Fadi Chamoun told clients in a note Friday. A similar tone was echoed at RBC, which isnt altering its long-term view on Air Canadas stock. The companys choice to suspend guidance does not come as unexpected and more importantly, we do not consider it to be impacting our longer-term view on the shares. RBC reminds investors Air Canada isnt altering its 2019-2021 targets, and sees the interruptions from the 737 grounding as a temporary, one-off issue. Air Canada maintaining its cumulative free cash flow guidance of $4 billion to $4.5 billion by 2021 is also a positive element, analyst Walter Spracklin tells clients in a note. The company is set to report first-quarter earnings May 6. Read more: Air Canada suspends financial guidance for 2019 after Boeing 737 Max grounded Ottawa exempts Boeing 737 Max jets from standards meant to minimize passenger injuries Booked a flight for future travel? Heres how you can tell if you were on a Boeing 737 Max 8 and what you can do about it Read more about: The college-admission cheating scandal that erupted Tuesday saw its first plea from one of the parents, who are accused of paying as much as $6.5 million (U.S.) in fees and bribes to get their kids into school. In federal court in Boston on Friday, Canadian dealmaker David Sidoo pleaded not guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. Sidoo is among dozens charged in an alleged criminal conspiracy to help applicants from wealthy families win admission to elite schools including Yale, Stanford and Georgetown. The only parent indicted of 33 charged in the case, he was arrested in San Jose, California, on March 8 and released on a $1 million bond, which Magistrate Judge Jennifer Boal raised to $1.5 million on Friday. She ordered him to maintain his residence in Vancouver and restricted his travel to Canada and the U.S. Sidoo was accompanied by his lawyers David Chesnoff - whose past clients include Martha Stewart, Robert Durst and Michael Jacksons family and Martin Weinberg. Why did he plead not guilty? Chesnoff said outside the courtroom after the brief hearing. Because hes not guilty. Sidoo and his lawyers then fled a gaggle of cameras. More: Vancouver Football Star-Turned-Tycoon Snared in College Scam Sidoo is accused of paying $100,000 for a surrogate to take the SAT entrance exam for his youngest son, Jordan. The impostor scored 2280 out of a possible 2400, according to prosecutors. Earlier, they allege, he had the stand-in take his older son Dylans high school graduation exam and SAT. If convicted, Sidoo faces as many as 20 years in prison, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office in Massachusetts. Sidoo played professional football in Canada and went on to become a prominent dealmaker and promoter, serving on the board or management of numerous Canadian penny-stock companies. He is a well-known philanthropist in British Columbia. He has taken a temporary leave of absence as president of Advantage Lithium Corp., the company said Thursday. Also on Thursday, East West Petroleum Corp. issued a statement saying both that Sidoo would take a leave of absence from his executive role and that he was no longer president and CEO. The case is U.S. v. Sidoo, U.S. District Court, District of Massachusetts (Boston). OTTAWA - The National Energy Board says Canadas existing export pipelines are running at maximum efficiency and the only way to realistically get more oil to market through pipelines is to build more of them. The board responded Friday to questions posed last fall by Natural Resources Minister Amarjeet Sohi, who wanted to know if there was any way to improve the efficiency of pipelines while Canada struggles to expand existing lines or get new ones built. In a nutshell, pipelines are full, said Jean-Denis Charlebois, the chief economist for the National Energy Board. In a statement Friday, Sohi said the report confirms that Canada needs to build new pipelines. The report says the amount of oil Canada is producing has increased while the capacity of pipelines to carry it has not. There are five pipeline projects, the report notes, that have been proposed and then cancelled or delayed in recent years. That includes the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion, which is in limbo pending a new round of reviews after a Federal Court of Appeal ripped up cabinet approval for it last year. The NEB recently recommended cabinet proceed with the Trans Mountain expansion after completing a new review of the impact it will have on marine life. A new round of Indigenous consultations is underway and could be completed this spring. The others are the Energy East pipeline from Alberta to the east coast (which Trans Canada abandoned), the Northern Gateway pipeline between Alberta and northern British Columbia (which the Liberals rejected in 2016), and the Keystone XL pipeline and the Enbridge Line 3 replacement (both of which face uncertainty due to regulatory challenges in the United States). Altogether, those five projects could have added 3.4 million barrels of oil per day to Canadas shipments. According to the NEB, the capacity in pipelines out of western Canada was just under four million barrels a day as of last September. The report says moving more oil by rail is also not a perfect substitute because doing so is more expensive and complex. It also tells Sohi that while there is room to streamline the system used by oil producers to get access to pipeline space, doing so would only reallocate existing capacity, not create more. The improvements largely surround how the pipelines verify the ability of producers to supply the amounts of oil they want to ship in pipelines. The way the system works now, sometimes companies overestimate how much they can send, expecting that when the limited space is allocated on a percentage basis they will end up getting what they actually need. Sohis request to the board came last fall as Canadian oil prices plunged thanks to temporary refinery closures in the Midwest, creating a price differential between Canadian oil and U.S. oil of $50 per barrel. That price gap has since closed to less than $10 a barrel after refineries came back online and the Alberta government imposed a mandatory cut in production. Charlebois said the report does say the system would benefit from better transparency of market data, to help shippers understand the pipeline operations. Sohi Friday asked his officials to establish a team with Alberta and Saskatchewan to work on the availability of data, as well as make the suggested to improvements to how producers apply for pipeline space. He is also working with Transport Minister Marc Garneau on improving rail access for smaller oil producers. BROMONT, Que. - Quebec Premier Francois Legault says his government isnt ruling out buying shares in SNC-Lavalin in order to prevent the company from being sold or dismantled. Legault said Friday that all options are currently on the table when it comes to saving the troubled Montreal-based engineering giant and the thousands of jobs it provides. The provinces pension fund manager already has a stake of about 20 per cent in the company, but not enough to form a blocking minority. SNC-Lavalin is currently facing fraud charges stemming from alleged dealings with the Libyan regime under Moammar Gadhafi between 2001 and 2011. A conviction would mean a 10-year ban from bidding on federal contracts, which could cripple the company. Former attorney general Jody Wilson-Raybould quit Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus cabinet last month, testifying later that he and his staff inappropriately pressured her to negotiate a remediation agreement that would allow the company to avoid criminal charges by admitting responsibility and paying a fine. Legault told reporters in Bromont, Que., that he has spoken with Trudeau on the need to find a way to save SNC-Lavalin and the jobs it creates. Meanwhile, Quebecs justice minister said Friday that shed refused a request to meet the engineering firm last fall to discuss a remediation agreement because she hadnt believed it would be pertinent. Sonia LeBel did not rule out meeting with the company or the federal government to discuss the matter in the future, but she doesnt see the need right now. I dont know. It will depend. I never rule anything out, she told reporters in Trois-Rivieres, Que. The U.S. Treasury moved to increase pressure on Russia over a November attack on Ukrainian ships and soldiers in the Kerch Strait, sanctioning six Russians and about a half dozen defence firms in conjunction with the European Union and Canada. The United States and our transatlantic partners will not allow Russias continued aggression against Ukraine to go unchecked, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement Friday. The international community is strongly aligned against Russias naval attacks in the Kerch Strait, purported annexation of Crimea, and support for the illegitimate separatist-conducted elections in eastern Ukraine. Among those sanctioned were officials from Russias Federal Security Service: Gennadiy Medvedev, the deputy director of the border guard service; Sergey Stankevich, the head of the border directorate; and Andrey Shein, Stankevichs deputy. Medvedev and Stankevich directly controlled and organized the attack on Ukrainian ships and their crews, while Shein participated in the operation, Treasury said. Russia seized Crimea in 2014 and has exploited its control of the channel to choke off access to Ukrainian ports on the Sea of Azov to the north. Last November, Russian naval forces fired on and then seized three Ukrainian ships heading through the strait. President Vladimir Putin has brushed off demands from German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Frances Emmanuel Macron that he free 24 Ukrainian sailors captured during the incident. The three kilometre wide Kerch Strait is a critical flashpoint as Putin looks to consolidate his grip over the Crimean peninsula and eastern Ukraine in defiance of sanctions from the European Union and the U.S. Ukraine has been seeking international help to keep the Kerch Strait open ever since the incident last November. In a separate statement, the State Department said the sanctions were part of a co-ordinated action with the European Union and Canada in response to Russias aggression in Ukraine. Canada said Friday it was imposing sanctions on 114 individuals and 15 entities as part of the effort. Read more about: WOODSTOCK, N.B. - Xplornet Communications Inc. says it plans to spend $500 million over the next five years to update its network to provide fifth-generation wireless services and faster internet in rural parts of Canada. The New Brunswick-based national carrier uses a combination of fibre optics and wireless to provide voice and internet service, usually just outside city limits, as well as satellite service to more remote parts of Canada. Company spokesman James Maunder says Xplornets current maximum residential internet speed is 25 megabits per second but that will double to 50 mbps by the end of 2019 and double again to 100 mbps by 2020. Xplornet says a tax provision in the federal governments 2018 fall economic update will help it make the investments. The federal government has said its new accelerated investment incentive was designed to make it more attractive for businesses of all sizes and all sectors of the economy to buy assets that will drive their growth. Canadas largest telecommunications networks as well as major carriers around the world have spent billions of dollars in recent years to get ready to roll out 5G networks over the next decade or so. QUEBECA little more than two years after their own community came under attack, Muslims in Quebec City said they were in shock over the mass shootings at two New Zealand mosques Friday that claimed at least 50 lives. Their horror was echoed by members of other Muslim communities across the country as they offered condolences to the grieving families and spoke out against extremism. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned as absolutely appalling the attack on worshippers attending Friday prayers in Christchurch. Hate has no place anywhere, Trudeau said in a statement. We must all confront Islamophobia and work to create a world in which all people no matter their faith, where they live, or where they were born can feel safe and secure. Boufeldja Benabdallah, the head of the Quebec City Islamic Cultural Centre, said a feeling of indescribable pain was apparent in his own community. He extended condolences to the New Zealand victims and expressed concern for families in Quebec City being forced to relive the Jan. 29, 2017 attack that left six men dead. Im convinced they are feeling a terrible pain. Imagine the children of those families here in Quebec who are hearing it on the radio and will watch their mothers cry and ask, Why are you crying? Benabdallah said. The mothers will remember the 29th, when they ran to get husbands who were killed by Alexandre Bissonnette. Benabdallah added that amid the mourning, it is time for people to speak out against extremism and for lawmakers to legislate against it. We must get back to work once again to explain, to tell these extremists of all stripes who politicize religion, like extremists who use race as a basis for discrimination, that we must change, Benabdallah said. The world cannot continue like this. During a vigil in Toronto, federal Immigration Minister Ahmed Hussen said its important for people around the world to say no to hatred. We have to work every single day to eradicate this hatred in our midst, Hussen told the crowd at Nathan Phillips Square, many of whom carried signs bearing slogans such as United Against Islamophobia. And we have to tell those who peddle in this kind of hatred whether they be ordinary citizens or whether they be politicians that this is the logical extension of that hatred. Police in many cities across the country said they were stepping up patrols around places of worship on Friday and communicating with local Muslim communities about their security concerns. We will have a heightened police presence in the community, focusing on places of worship especially mosques. We have done this to ensure the city is as safe and secure as possible, said Const. Allyson Douglas-Cook, a Toronto police spokeswoman. In Halifax, Imam Abdallah Yousri of the Umma Mosque said no special precautions were being taken, but he confirmed that the site, with a capacity of 2,000, already has a good security system. We will have discussions about that to see how we can enhance our security systems to make sure this kind of thing doesnt happen in the future, he said in an interview. He said some members called to see whether prayers would go ahead as scheduled on Friday, and he assured them the mosque would be open. Its always a special day on Fridays, he said. We pray every Friday. Rabia Khedr, executive director of the Muslim Council of Peel, said the early news about Christchurch immediately brought to mind the Quebec City shooting. I didnt sleep all night, Khedr said. I cannot believe the number of people that have been killed, the number of people that have been injured. She said an attack on Muslims in a Western nation hits harder. When it hits a Muslim majority country we feel sad, we feel sorrow, however that feeling is a little different in a western democracy where we are minorities, she said. Because its pure and utter hatred. Its Islamophobia in its ugliest form. The Islamic Supreme Council of Canada, based in Calgary, also spoke out against the attack. This is nothing but terrorism against Muslims. This is nothing but hate against Muslims. This is nothing but Islamophobia, Imam Syed Soharwardy said in a statement. Trudeau said Canadians join New Zealanders and Muslim communities around the world in grieving and condemning the attack and work to act against violent extremism. Far too often, Muslims suffer unimaginable loss and pain in the places where they should feel safest, Trudeau said. Canada remembers too well the sorrow we felt when a senseless attack on the Centre culturel islamique de Quebec in Ste-Foy claimed the lives of many innocent people gathered in prayer. Mohamed Labidi, a past president of the Quebec City mosque, told reporters Friday he regretted that humanity had not learned its lesson after the attack on his community. A fellow mosque member said the question remains why these attacks continue to happen. The reaction is the same as what we experienced already, said Alpha Barry. We have been affected, our population is affected and we keeping asking why? Why is this happening every day? Parliament lowered the flag on Centre Block to half-mast in honour of the victims a move followed in other provinces and cities. Vigils were also planned in various Canadian cities in memory of the victims. One man was arrested and charged with murder in what appears to have been a carefully planned racist attack in New Zealand. There are unconfirmed reports that the shooter was influenced by Bissonnette, the former Universite Laval student convicted of killing six worshippers in 2017. A now-deleted Twitter account that is believed to be linked to the accused shooter shows what appear to be three assault-rifle magazines, one of which has Bissonnettes name on it. Aymen Derbali, a survivor of the Quebec City attack who was left paralyzed, said he was devastated when he saw video of the New Zealand attack. Certainly for me, when I saw the video this morning, it brought back what we experienced here, he said outside the mosque. The hardest thing is that he was inspired by what happened here. He had the killer at the mosque here as an idol. It was written on his weapons. Bissonnette was sentenced to life in prison without possibility of parole for 40 years, but the Crown and his lawyers both recently announced they are appealing the sentence. Through his lawyers, Bissonnette, who is seeking a reduction of his sentence, issued a statement Friday saying he was very affected that his name was linked to the New Zealand attack. His lawyers said in the statement that Bissonnettes decision to appeal wasnt meant to minimize his actions. Written by Sidhartha Banerjee in Montreal with files from Michelle McQuigge in Toronto; Michael MacDonald in Halifax and Caroline Plante in Quebec City. Organized crime groups like the Hells Angels and the Mafia saw plenty of opportunities after Canada announced it would allow the production of cannabis for medical purposes, according to RCMP intelligence documents obtained by The Star. There is no shortage of organized criminal groups who have applied to produce Medical Marihuana (MM), according to a March 2013 police report, titled Mexican Cartels are Legitimizing their Operations by Taking over Resource Production and Exportation. The internal RCMP report also stated that Mexican cocaine cartels were pushing into the mining industry and showing interest in swallowing up Canadian resource businesses. Canadian law enforcement should be alert to the degree to which Mexican cartels are consolidating, expanding traditional drug trafficking operations and taking over Mexican resource extraction and exportation because Canadian resource industries may be attractive targets in the cartels efforts to launder illegal profits and legitimize their operations, the report states. The report was drafted by the RCMPs Federal Serious and Organized Crimes section, based in British Columbia. It came before the then-Conservative federal government changed the rules for medical marijuana on March 31, 2014, allowing Canadians who need the drug to get a doctors prescription instead of a licence from Health Canada. The current Liberal government legalized cannabis sales last October. Asked whether the force still held the concerns shown in its 2013 report, Sgt. Marie Damien of RCMP headquarters in Ottawa said organized crime is constantly evolving, increasing in complexity and reach. This situation is not unique to Canada, she said, adding organized crime groups will exploit any and all opportunities. The report stated the organized crime groups including the Hells Angels, traditional mobsters and Mexican drug cartels showed plenty of interest in Canadas plan to loosen rules for medical marijuana. The RCMPs initial background check of applicant ventures have turned up significant hits and raised significant alarm bells inside the Federal Policing program, the report said. It noted that interest wasnt just within the Canadian criminal community. The Security and intelligence community should be aware that this is a going concern for our organization, not just the domestic vulnerabilities these regulations have created, but the international ones as well, the report said. The report also noted that Mexican drug cartels were also becoming more active in the mining industry, and that iron ore represented the prime source of income for the Knights Templar cartel, based in Michoacan, on Mexicos Pacific coast. Investigators, particularly those engaged in enforcement projects involving suspected Mexican cartel members, should be made aware that cartel groups may no longer be only interested in drug and currency smuggling activities and may be focusing on primary resource extraction and shipping industries, the report said. Although Canadian resources industries have a stronger regulatory regime (for mine permit approvals, resource extraction and exportation) and there is less opportunity for large-scale extortion there do exist opportunities for the cartels to use these industries to launder and move cash from Canada to Mexico, the report stated. Shortly before the 2014 law changes, the government projected the medical cannabis market could swell to $1.3 billion by 2024, eventually serving 450,000 Canadians. Before the change, fewer than 40,000 Canadians were legal users of medical marijuana. Earlier this week, Bill Blair, the minister of border security and organized crime reduction, said Ottawa is pleased with the orderly transition to legal pot. You would recall the prediction of apocalyptic results, the former Toronto police chief said, speaking from Washington, where he met with American senators and law enforcement officials about border security issues, organized crime and illicit drug flow. We had worked very hard to ensure we had strong regulatory controls in place before the implementation, he said. Damien said that combating organized crime is a long-standing priority for the RCMP, which works in collaboration with law enforcement agencies across the country and internationally. The RCMP will continue to work with the Government of Canada to ensure, to the extent possible, that appropriate policies and safeguards are in place to prevent organized crime networks from profiting from legal cannabis, Damian said. About 800 travellers scheduled mainly for trips across Canada did not board their WestJet planes Saturday after the airline cancelled 18 domestic flights in the wake of the 737 Max aircraft groundings. While 400 of the would-be passengers will be rebooked on flights departing Sunday, according to the airline, around 300 people could find themselves stranded until Monday. About 1,800 WestJet passengers are affected by the airlines rescheduling, says Lauren Stewart, an airline spokesperson. But about 1,000 passengers will be rebooked on same-day flights departing Saturday, she wrote to the Star in an email, adding that WestJet worked incredibly hard, this week to limit cancellations to sunny destinations. It has been a busy week as WestJet has worked to minimize inconvenience to our guests affected by the temporary grounding of our 13 Boeing MAX aircraft, she said. Of the more than 65,000 guests booked on MAX flights up to March 31, more than 85 per cent will have had little to no changes to their flight schedules. Airlines across the globe have grounded 737 Max aircraft since safety concerns began to surface after last Sundays Ethiopian Airlines crash that killed 157 people. Officials noticed dangerous similarities to the Lion Air crash in October that killed 189 passengers. Air Canada spokesperson Peter Fitzpatrick told the Star in an email that Air Canadas priority was also to cover its north-south flying and has been able to accommodate the vast majority of travellers on their way home from holidays, particularly from Mexico and the Caribbean. While there may be delays on some domestic transcontinental flights, he said, Air Canada is working to add capacity in these markets. Overall, we are working successfully to reallocate aircraft or move customers flights to enable them to travel, Fitzpatrick said. He said Air Canada has put a customer-centric, flexible rebooking policy in place so impacted customers can change their flights without any additional fees. Sunwing, which advertises vacation packages to sunny destinations, said it has had few problems in dealing with the groundings. Fortunately Sunwing Airlines was able to revise this weekends flying with minimal disruption to the schedule and no cancellations, said an emailed statement to the Star. For now, Stewart said, WestJet has replaced its Boeing 737 Max from Calgary/Edmonton to Hawaii with a 767 aircraft and is flying two 787 Dreamliner aircraft on its Calgary and Toronto routes. Read more about: Ontario is using the equivalent of an honour system to track student vaccinations after it spent hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars on a failed attempt to collect more reliable data. The system, called ICON, is an online tool for parents to enter their kids vaccination details. At a time of recent measles outbreaks in British Columbia and worldwide, top doctors say relying on parents to be honest is an unacceptable way to protect public health. Numerous studies show self-reporting is prone to significant error. Ontarios ICON system allows for both accidental and intentional misinformation. Accurate vaccination data is essential to predicting a populations vulnerability to outbreaks. Unreliable immunization information could lead to public health officials having no ability to see danger coming, said Dr. David Fisman, a professor of epidemiology and medicine at the University of Torontos Dalla Lana School of Public Health. I cant imagine that wed rely on self-reporting for university graduation, payment of taxes or having passed your drivers test, said Fisman, a former associate medical officer of health in Hamilton. Read more: Vaccination registry for B.C. schoolchildren coming as soon as possible, says ministry Measles outbreaks show why vaccine-hesitancy is a global health threat Canadas chief health officer takes aim at misinformation in measles outbreak It wasnt meant to be this way. Ontario recently built a reporting program for health-care providers, called ICON-HCP, but then scrapped it at a cost of $660,000. EHealth Ontario had developed the reporting site without consulting front-line workers to make sure it would be compatible with the 12 different electronic medical record systems that are used across the province. Everyone was so confident the system would work that in 2017, the Liberal government moved to amend the Immunization of School Pupils Act, requiring health-care providers to report this critical data to public health officials. After the systems rollout, doctors flagged a problem: the names of the vaccines in the new system did not match the names as they appeared in doctors existing electronic records. When Premier Doug Ford took office, he formally put the legislation on pause. Ontarios eHealth which oversees the provinces electronic health record system is now working on a new online tool that health-care providers will use to send immunization records to public health officials, several sources told the Star. Its unclear how long it will take. One source estimated two to three years while another suggested a test phase could be rolled out within several months. Ideally, the vaccination information would come directly from the doctor/nurse each time a vaccine is given, said Toronto Public Health spokesperson Dr. Vinita Dubey. In Februarys issue of the journal Vaccine, U.S. researchers surveyed parents and found 25 per cent gave incorrect answers about their childs HPV vaccination status. The study analyzed the parents responses against verified medical data for nearly 20,000 adolescents. EHealth is consulting doctors in its latest effort to build a new reporting tool for health-care professionals, said OntarioMD, a subsidiary of the Ontario Medical Association that helps doctors use digital health services. Students who are not up to date with their immunizations, and who do not have a valid exemption for medical or religious reasons, may be suspended from school. For years, schools relied on parents to bring paper proof of their childrens immunization history to kindergarten registration, by which point most children have received the majority of vaccines. These yellow cards were filled out by health-care providers. Then the schools would courier hundreds of thousands of copies of these records to public health units across the province, where staff manually entered the information into a database. Now Ontario is promoting an electronic self-reporting system that requires no evidence of immunization at all. The self-reporting system allows a parent to attach a copy of the immunization record. Dubey said it is not known how many families do this. After a test run of the system, Toronto Public Health, the largest of 35 public health units in Ontario, expanded its reliance on the online tool in February to cover the vaccination details of prospective junior kindergarten students. This cohort includes about 25,000 children. Torontos French and English school boards confirmed they have circulated this information to parents but will still accept paper immunization records if parents are unable to report online. Public health officials insist all self-reported data is verified before staff forward it to a central database. The online tool does not require parents to submit documentation showing a childs vaccinations are complete and up to date. It does not even require parents to enter an accurate date for when vaccinations were administered. Parents can select from a drop-down menu of immunizations that are grouped by age and simply check them off. The core basis for determining if a vaccine record appears accurate, said Dubey, consists of a staffer checking the parents selections on one screen against another screen that shows the governments list of required vaccines. Toronto Public Health does not cross-reference records with health-care providers, Dubey said. I dont know how long it will take vaccine-hesitant folks to realize that they can simply copy and paste the vaccine schedule in and have their kids stay in school, Fisman said. Accidental errors are a concern for Dr. Hirotaka Yamashiro, president of the Pediatricians Alliance of Ontario. He has seen the online self-reporting system and worries its very hard for parents to understand what it is theyre inputting because the vaccine options in the drop-down menu dont always match the information on a patients yellow card. That leads to a lot of unreliability in whats reported. Read more about: MEMORANDUM FOR: The Attorney General FROM: Veteran Intelligence Professionals for S anity (VIPS) SUBJECT: Muellers Forensics-Free Findings Executive Summary March 16, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - Media reports are predicting that Special Counsel Robert Mueller is about to give you the findings of his probe into a ny links and/or coordination between the Russian government and individuals associated with the campaign of President Donald Trump. If Mueller gives you his completed report anytime soon, it should be graded incomplete. Major deficiencies include depending on a DNC-hired cybersecurity company for forensics and failure to consult with those who have done original forensic work, including us and the independent forensic investigators with whom we have examined the data. We stand ready to help. We veteran intelligence professionals (VIPS) have done enough detailed forensic work to prove the speciousness of the prevailing story that the DNC emails published by WikiLeaks came from Russian hacking. Given the paucity of evidence to support that story, we believe Mueller may choose to finesse this key issue and leave everyone hanging. That would help sustain the widespread belief that Trump owes his victory to President Vladimir Putin, and strengthen the hand of those who pay little heed to the unpredictable consequences of an increase in tensions with nuclear-armed Russia. There is an overabundance of assessments but a lack of hard evidence to support that prevailing narrative. We believe that there are enough people of integrity in the Department of Justice to prevent the outright manufacture or distortion of evidence, particularly if they become aware that experienced scientists have completed independent forensic study that yield very different conclusions. We know only too well and did our best to expose how our former colleagues in the intelligence community manufactured fraudulent evidence of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. We have scrutinized publicly available physical data the trail that every cyber operation leaves behind. And we have had support from highly experienced independent forensic investigators who, like us, have no axes to grind. We can prove that the conventional-wisdom story about Russian-hacking-DNC-emails-for-WikiLeaks is false. Drawing largely on the unique expertise of two VIPS scientists who worked for a combined total of 70 years at the National Security Agency and became Technical Directors there, we have regularly published our findings. But we have been deprived of a hearing in mainstream media an experience painfully reminiscent of what we had to endure when we exposed the corruption of intelligence before the attack on Iraq 16 years ago. This time, with the principles of physics and forensic science to rely on, we are able to adduce solid evidence exposing mistakes and distortions in the dominant story. We offer you below as a kind of aide-memoire a discussion of some of the key factors related to what has become known as Russia-gate. And we include our most recent findings drawn from forensic work on data associated with WikiLeaks publication of the DNC emails. We do not claim our conclusions are irrefutable and undeniable, a la Colin Powell at the UN before the Iraq war. Our judgments, however, are based on the scientific method not assessments. We decided to put this memorandum together in hopes of ensuring that you hear that directly from us. Are You Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter If the Mueller team remains reluctant to review our work or even to interview willing witnesses with direct knowledge, like WikiLeaks Julian Assange and former UK Ambassador Craig Murray, we fear that many of those yearning earnestly for the truth on Russia-gate will come to the corrosive conclusion that the Mueller investigation was a sham. In sum, we are concerned that, at this point, an incomplete Mueller report will fall far short of the commitment made by then Acting Attorney General Rod Rosenstein to ensure a full and thorough investigation, when he appointed Mueller in May 2017. Again, we are at your disposal. Are You Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter Discussion The centerpiece accusation of Kremlin interference in the 2016 presidential election was the charge that Russia hacked Democratic National Committee emails and gave them to WikiLeaks to embarrass Secretary Hillary Clinton and help Mr. Trump win. The weeks following the election witnessed multiple leak-based media allegations to that effect. These culminated on January 6, 2017 in an evidence-light, rump report misleadingly labeled Intelligence Community Assessment (ICA). Prepared by handpicked analysts from only three of the 17 U.S. intelligence agencies (CIA, FBI, and NSA), the assessment expressed high confidence in the Russia-hacking-to-WikiLeaks story, but lacked so much as a hint that the authors had sought access to independent forensics to support their assessment. The media immediately awarded the ICA the status of Holy Writ, choosing to overlook an assortment of banal, full-disclosure-type caveats included in the assessment itself such as: When Intelligence Community analysts use words such as we assess or we judge, they are conveying an analytic assessment or judgment. Judgments are not intended to imply that we have proof that shows something to be a fact. Assessments are based on collected information, which is often incomplete or fragmentary High confidence in a judgment does not imply that the assessment is a fact or a certainty; such judgments might be wrong. To their credit, however, the authors of the ICA did make a highly germane point in introductory remarks on cyber incident attribution. They noted: The nature of cyberspace makes attribution of cyber operations difficult but not impossible. Every kind of cyber operation malicious or not leaves a trail. [Emphasis added.] Forensics The imperative is to get on that trail and quickly, before red herrings can be swept across it. The best way to establish attribution is to apply the methodology and processes of forensic science. Intrusions into computers leave behind discernible physical data that can be examined scientifically by forensic experts. Risk to sources and methods is normally not a problem. Direct access to the actual computers is the first requirement the more so when an intrusion is termed an act of war and blamed on a nuclear-armed foreign government (the words used by the late Sen. John McCain and other senior officials). In testimony to the House Intelligence Committee in March 2017, former FBI Director James Comey admitted that he did not insist on physical access to the DNC computers even though, as he conceded, best practices dictate direct access. In June 2017, Senate Intelligence Committee Chair Richard Burr asked Comey whether he ever had access to the actual hardware that was hacked. Comey answered, In the case of the DNC we did not have access to the devices themselves. We got relevant forensic information from a private party, a high-class entity, that had done the work. Sen. Burr followed up: But no content? Isnt content an important part of the forensics from a counterintelligence standpoint? Comey: It is, although what was briefed to me by my folks is that they had gotten the information from the private party that they needed to understand the intrusion by the spring of 2016. The private party/high-class entity to which Comey refers is CrowdStrike, a cybersecurity firm of checkered reputation and multiple conflicts of interest, including very close ties to a number of key anti-Russian organizations. Comey indicated that the DNC hired CrowdStrike in the spring of 2016. Given the stakes involved in the Russia-gate investigation including a possible impeachment battle and greatly increased tension between Russia and the U.S. it is difficult to understand why Comey did not move quickly to seize the computer hardware so the FBI could perform an independent examination of what quickly became the major predicate for investigating election interference by Russia. Fortunately, enough data remain on the forensic trail to arrive at evidence-anchored conclusions. The work we have done shows the prevailing narrative to be false. We have been suggesting this for over two years. Recent forensic work significantly strengthens that conclusion. We Do Forensics Recent forensic examination of the Wikileaks DNC files shows they were created on 23, 25 and 26 May 2016. (On June 12, Julian Assange announced he had them; WikiLeaks published them on July 22.) We recently discovered that the files reveal a FAT (File Allocation Table) system property. This shows that the data had been transferred to an external storage device, such as a thumb drive, before WikiLeaks posted them. FAT is a simple file system named for its method of organization, the File Allocation Table. It is used for storage only and is not related to internet transfers like hacking. Were WikiLeaks to have received the DNC files via a hack, the last modified times on the files would be a random mixture of odd-and even-ending numbers. Why is that important? The evidence lies in the last modified time stamps on the Wikileaks files. When a file is stored under the FAT file system the software rounds the time to the nearest even-numbered second. Every single one of the time stamps in the DNC files on WikiLeaks site ends in an even number. We have examined 500 DNC email files stored on the Wikileaks site. All 500 files end in an even number2, 4, 6, 8 or 0. If those files had been hacked over the Internet, there would be an equal probability of the time stamp ending in an odd number. The random probability that FAT was not used is 1 chance in 2 to the 500th power. Thus, these data show that the DNC emails posted by WikiLeaks went through a storage device, like a thumb drive, and were physically moved before Wikileaks posted the emails on the World Wide Web. This finding alone is enough to raise reasonable doubts, for example, about Muellers indictment of 12 Russian intelligence officers for hacking the DNC emails given to WikiLeaks. A defense attorney could easily use the forensics to argue that someone copied the DNC files to a storage device like a USB thumb drive and got them physically to WikiLeaks not electronically via a hack. Role of NSA For more than two years, we strongly suspected that the DNC emails were copied/leaked in that way, not hacked. And we said so. We remain intrigued by the apparent failure of NSAs dragnet, collect-it-all approach including cast-iron coverage of WikiLeaks to provide forensic evidence (as opposed to assessments) as to how the DNC emails got to WikiLeaks and who sent them. Well before the telling evidence drawn from the use of FAT, other technical evidence led us to conclude that the DNC emails were not hacked over the network, but rather physically moved over, say, the Atlantic Ocean. Is it possible that NSA has not yet been asked to produce the collected packets of DNC email data claimed to have been hacked by Russia? Surely, this should be done before Mueller competes his investigation. NSA has taps on all the transoceanic cables leaving the U.S. and would almost certainly have such packets if they exist. (The detailed slides released by Edward Snowden actually show the routes that trace the packets.) The forensics we examined shed no direct light on who may have been behind the leak. The only thing we know for sure is that the person had to have direct access to the DNC computers or servers in order to copy the emails. The apparent lack of evidence from the most likely source, NSA, regarding a hack may help explain the FBIs curious preference for forensic data from CrowdStrike. No less puzzling is why Comey would choose to call CrowdStrike a high-class entity. Comey was one of the intelligence chiefs briefing President Obama on January 5, 2017 on the Intelligence Community Assessment, which was then briefed to President-elect Trump and published the following day. That Obama found a key part of the ICA narrative less than persuasive became clear at his last press conference (January 18), when he told the media, The conclusions of the intelligence community with respect to the Russian hacking were not conclusive as to how the DNC emails that were leaked got to WikiLeaks. Is Guccifer 2.0 a Fraud? There is further compelling technical evidence that undermines the claim that the DNC emails were downloaded over the internet as a result of a spearphishing attack. William Binney, one of VIPS two former Technical Directors at NSA, along with other former intelligence community experts, examined files posted by Guccifer 2.0 and discovered that those files could not have been downloaded over the internet. It is a simple matter of mathematics and physics. There was a flurry of activity after Julian Assange announced on June 12, 2016: We have emails relating to Hillary Clinton which are pending publication. On June 14, DNC contractor CrowdStrike announced that malware was found on the DNC server and claimed there was evidence it was injected by Russians. On June 15, the Guccifer 2.0 persona emerged on the public stage, affirmed the DNC statement, claimed to be responsible for hacking the DNC, claimed to be a WikiLeaks source, and posted a document that forensics show was synthetically tainted with Russian fingerprints. Our suspicions about the Guccifer 2.0 persona grew when G-2 claimed responsibility for a hack of the DNC on July 5, 2016, which released DNC data that was rather bland compared to what WikiLeaks published 17 days later (showing how the DNC had tipped the primary scales against Sen. Bernie Sanders). As VIPS reported in a wrap-up Memorandum for the President on July 24, 2017 (titled Intel Vets Challenge Russia Hack Evidence), forensic examination of the July 5, 2016 cyber intrusion into the DNC showed it NOT to be a hack by the Russians or by anyone else, but rather a copy onto an external storage device. It seemed a good guess that the July 5 intrusion was a contrivance to preemptively taint anything WikiLeaks might later publish from the DNC, by showing it came from a Russian hack. WikiLeaks published the DNC emails on July 22, three days before the Democratic convention. As we prepared our July 24 memo for the President, we chose to begin by taking Guccifer 2.0 at face value; i. e., that the documents he posted on July 5, 2016 were obtained via a hack over the Internet. Binney conducted a forensic examination of the metadata contained in the posted documents and compared that metadata with the known capacity of Internet connection speeds at the time in the U.S. This analysis showed a transfer rate as high as 49.1 megabytes per second, which is much faster than was possible from a remote online Internet connection. The 49.1 megabytes speed coincided, though, with the rate that copying onto a thumb drive could accommodate. Binney, assisted by colleagues with relevant technical expertise, then extended the examination and ran various forensic tests from the U.S. to the Netherlands, Albania, Belgrade and the UK. The fastest Internet rate obtained from a data center in New Jersey to a data center in the UK was 12 megabytes per second, which is less than a fourth of the capacity typical of a copy onto a thumb drive. The findings from the examination of the Guccifer 2.0 data and the WikiLeaks data does not indicate who copied the information to an external storage device (probably a thumb drive). But our examination does disprove that G.2 hacked into the DNC on July 5, 2016. Forensic evidence for the Guccifer 2.0 data adds to other evidence that the DNC emails were not taken by an internet spearphishing attack. The data breach was local. The emails were copied from the network. Presidential Interest After VIPS July 24, 2017 Memorandum for the President, Binney, one of its principal authors, was invited to share his insights with Mike Pompeo, CIA Director at the time. When Binney arrived in Pompeos office at CIA Headquarters on October 24, 2017 for an hour-long discussion, the director made no secret of the reason for the invitation: You are here because the President told me that if I really wanted to know about Russian hacking I needed to talk with you. Binney warned Pompeo to stares of incredulity that his people should stop lying about the Russian hacking. Binney then started to explain the VIPS findings that had caught President Trumps attention. Pompeo asked Binney if he would talk to the FBI and NSA. Binney agreed, but has not been contacted by those agencies. With that, Pompeo had done what the President asked. There was no follow-up. Confronting James Clapper on Forensics We, the hoi polloi,do not often get a chance to talk to people like Pompeo and still less to the former intelligence chiefs who are the leading purveyors of the prevailing Russia-gate narrative. An exception came on November 13, when former National Intelligence Director James Clapper came to the Carnegie Endowment in Washington to hawk his memoir. Answering a question during the Q&A about Russian hacking and NSA, Clapper said: Well, I have talked with NSA a lot And in my mind, I spent a lot of time in the SIGINT business, the forensic evidence was overwhelming about what the Russians had done. Theres absolutely no doubt in my mind whatsoever. [Emphasis added] Clapper added: as a private citizen, understanding the magnitude of what the Russians did and the number of citizens in our country they reached and the different mechanisms that, by which they reached them, to me it stretches credulity to think they didnt have a profound impact on election on the outcome of the election. (A transcript of the interesting Q&A can be found here and a commentary on Clappers performance at Carnegie, as well as on his longstanding lack of credibility, is .) Normally soft-spoken Ron Wyden, Democratic senator from Oregon, lost his patience with Clapper last week when he learned that Clapper is still denying that he lied to the Senate Intelligence Committee about the extent of NSA surveillance of U.S. citizens. In an unusual outburst, Wyden said: James Clapper needs to stop making excuses for lying to the American people about mass surveillance. To be clear: I sent him the question in advance. I asked him to correct the record afterward. He chose to let the lie stand. The materials brought out by Edward Snowden in June 2013 showed Clapper to have lied under oath to the committee on March 12, 2013; he was, nevertheless, allowed to stay on as Director of National Intelligence for three and half more years. Clapper fancies himself an expert on Russia, telling Meet the Presson May 28, 2017 that Russias history shows that Russians are typically, almost genetically driven to co-opt, penetrate, gain favor, whatever. Clapper ought to be asked about the forensics he said were overwhelming about what the Russians had done. And that, too, before Mueller completes his investigation. For the steering group, Veteran Intelligence Professionals for Sanity: William Binney, former NSA Technical Director for World Geopolitical & Military Analysis; Co-founder of NSAs Signals Intelligence Automation Research Center (ret.) Richard H. Black, Senator of Virginia, 13th District; Colonel US Army (ret.); Former Chief, Criminal Law Division, Office of the Judge Advocate General, the Pentagon (associate VIPS) Bogdan Dzakovic, former Team Leader of Federal Air Marshals and Red Team, FAA Security (ret.) (associate VIPS) Philip Giraldi, CIA, Operations Officer (ret.) Mike Gravel, former Adjutant, top secret control officer, Communications Intelligence Service; special agent of the Counter Intelligence Corps and former United States Senator James George Jatras, former U.S. diplomat and former foreign policy adviser to Senate leadership (Associate VIPS) Larry C. Johnson, former CIA and State Department Counter Terrorism officer John Kiriakou, former CIA Counterterrorism Officer and former senior investigator, Senate Foreign Relations Committee Karen Kwiatkowski, former Lt. Col., US Air Force (ret.), at Office of Secretary of Defense watching the manufacture of lies on Iraq, 2001-2003 Edward Loomis, Cryptologic Computer Scientist, former Technical Director at NSA (ret.) David MacMichael, Ph.D., former senior estimates officer, National Intelligence Council (ret.) Ray McGovern, former US Army infantry/intelligence officer & CIA analyst; CIA Presidential briefer (ret.) Elizabeth Murray, former Deputy National Intelligence Officer for the Near East, National Intelligence Council & CIA political analyst (ret.) Todd E. Pierce, MAJ, US Arm y Judge Advocate (ret.) Peter Van Buren, US Department of State, Foreign Service Officer (ret.) (associate VIPS) Sarah G. Wilton, CDR, USNR, (ret.); Defense Intelligence Agency (ret.) Kirk Wiebe, former Senior Analyst, SIGINT Automation Research Center, NSA Ann Wright, retired U.S. Army reserve colonel and former U.S. diplomat who resigned in 2003 in opposition to the Iraq War Veteran Intelligence Professionals for Sanity (VIPS) is made up of former intelligence officers, diplomats, military officers and congressional staffers. The organization, founded in 2002, was among the first critics of Washingtons justifications for launching a war against Iraq. VIPS advocates a US foreign and national security policy based on genuine national interests rather than contrived threats promoted for largely political reasons. An archive of VIPS memoranda is available at www.Consortiumnews.com . WASHINGTONSteve Bannon, the former Trump White House adviser and conservative hardliner, will be a special guest of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro for dinner on Monday, the eve of the far-right leaders meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House. Bannon, who Bolsonaros team has sought out for political guidance, will be among a group of conservative guests joining Bolsonaro at his table for the exclusive event at the Brazilian ambassadors residence, two sources familiar with the meeting said. Some of the Bolsonaro team on the right see themselves as disciples of the Bannon movement and representatives of Bannon for Brazil and Latin America, said Fernando Cutz, a former acting senior director for Western Hemisphere Affairs at the National Security Council in the Trump administration. Bolsonaro, a former army captain, will be in Washington next week where he will stay at the Blair House across from the White House and meet with Trump in the Oval Office where discussions will include trade, transnational crime and restoring democracy in Venezuela. McClatchy has learned the two leaders are also expected to hold a news conference in the Rose Garden Tuesday afternoon. The controversial far-right leader, who is expected to shake up geopolitical order in the hemisphere, has been dubbed the Trump of the Tropics. Read more: North Korea threatens to suspend denuclearization talks with the United States Trump claims theres not really a rise in white nationalism after racist gunman kills dozens of Muslims in New Zealand Trump issues first veto, defying Congress rebuke of his border emergency order Bolsonaro has made no secret of his desire to establish close ties with the United States. White House National Security Adviser John Bolton and other Trump officials have described Bolsonaro as a like-minded leader and raised the possibility of a free-trade agreement between the two nations. Trump fired Bannon, his chief strategist during the campaign, in 2017. Since then, Bannon has taken his fight against globalism to Europe and Latin America. During his own campaign, Bolsonaro imitated Trumps slogan championed by Bannon, America first and promised to put Brazil first. Bolsonaros son, Eduardo Bolsonaro, a Brazilian congressman who some liken to playing a role similar to Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner at the White House, has boasted of sharing the same world view as Bannon and spoken of teaming up together to fight cultural Marxism. Last month, Bannon announced that Eduardo Bolsonaro would represent South America in The Movement, which is Bannons consortium of international leaders who support populist nationalism and reject the influence of globalism. We will work with him to reclaim sovereignty from progressive globalist elitist forces and expand common sense nationalism for all citizens of Latin America, Eduardo Bolsonaro said about Bannon in a statement at the time. Read more about: CARACAS, Venezuela - A German freelance journalist jailed in Venezuela since November on espionage charges was released Friday within weeks of two other reporters being expelled from the tumultuous South American nation, his parents and a human rights attorney confirmed. A court in the capital of Caracas ordered journalist Billy Six to be let go under the conditions that he report back every 15 days and not speak to media, attorney Carlos Correa of Public Space told The Associated Press. Six, 31, wont be deported from Venezuela, but Correa also said that the journalist isnt prevented from leaving if he chooses. We are overjoyed! his parents Ute and Edward Six posted on a Facebook, also railing against Germanys foreign ministry for not doing enough to help their son who spent 119 days in solitary confinement. Viva Venezuela! they wrote. Free Billy Six! Resident of a Berlin suburb, Six has travelled the globe as an independent journalist for 12 years, publishing his reports in right-wing outlets. His arrest has generated little interest in mainstream German media, which relatives blame on his conservative affiliation. In Venezuela, he documented the economic collapse and mass migration from the socialist country, landing in jail on espionage charges that his family rejected as false. This wasnt Sixs first arrest amid turmoil. In 2013, he was jailed by the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad for three months after illegally entering that country to report on its bloody civil war. He was eventually handed over unharmed to Russian diplomats in Damascus who had helped secure his release. A photo posted on Sixs Facebook page in May 2011 shows him holding a rocket-propelled grenade launcher on his shoulder, with a caption indicating it was taken on the front line of fighting in Syria. Six turned his attention to Venezuela over a year ago. His father previously told The AP that his son entered the country legally but was unable to secure journalist credentials required by Venezuela to work as a reporter. While reporting on Venezuela, Six posted two crudely edited German-language videos online showing him walking the streets, interviewing people and at times narrating his conclusions, critical of Maduros socialist government. Hola amigos, Im still in Venezuela, South American socialism of the 21st century, Six says, opening one video. Here on the street theres dust, dirt, garbage, street dogs. While the government of socialist President Nicolas Maduro has little tolerance for critical coverage by local press, foreign journalists who cross officials are usually spared the same harsh treatment. In the past, foreign reporters, like Six, who werent accredited would stay in custody for just a few days before being ejected from the country. The release of Six follows the recent deportation of other two journalists. Venezuelan security forces seized U.S. freelance journalist Cody Weddle earlier this month at his apartment in Caracas where he had worked for over five years. Most recently, Weddle sent dispatches to a Miami TV station. Univisions Jorge Ramos and his team were also deported in late February when Maduro cut short an interview during which he was shown video on an iPad shot a day earlier of young Venezuelans eating food scraps out of the back of a garbage truck. ___ Associated Press Fabiola Sanchez contributed to this report. MANAGUA, Nicaragua - Police in Nicaragua detained more than 100 people Saturday after opponents of President Daniel Ortega tried to hold a demonstration to pressure his government to release hundreds of protesters held in custody since 2018. Police later said they would release the 107 protesters arrested Saturday in the coming hours at the request of the Vaticans ambassador. Nicaraguas government banned opposition protests in September and police broke up Saturdays attempt at a demonstration in Managua, hitting several protesters as they forced them into patrol cars. The U.S. Embassy in Managua expressed concern via Twitter about reports of police violence and called on the Nicaraguan authorities to cease the use of excessive force against peaceful protesters. The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights called on the Ortega government via Twitter to give a full tally of those wounded and detained in the standoff, during which police carrying assault rifles hauled away protesters. More than 300 people have died in protests since April 2018, while more than 700 are believed to be in government custody and over 52,000 have fled the country amid civil strife and repression. On Friday, Nicaraguas government said it released 50 opposition prisoners and placed them under a form of house arrest. The release was an apparent bow to a demand by the opposition Civic Alliance for freeing inmates as a condition for resuming political talks which had been suspended. CANBERRA, Australia - Those who watched Brenton Tarrant growing up in the sleepy Australian country town of Grafton say they had no inkling of the potential evil he allegedly unleashed in merciless gunfire at two New Zealand mosques that claimed at least 50 lives. The chief suspect in New Zealands worst mass shooting in modern history grew up in a modest house in suburban Grafton, a close-knit town of 20,000 on the Clarence River in northern New South Wales state. Jennifer Huxley, an Australian Broadcasting Corp. reporter, went through Grafton High School six years ahead of Tarrant. Ive caught up with some of his classmates and they remember him as a bit of a class clown, Huxley said Saturday. But staff remember him as a bit of a disruptive student who was prone at times to being quite cruel to his classmates. But the teachers are struggling to come to terms with the fact that the pupil that they were involved with in Grafton has now been involved in what has happened in Christchurch, Huxley said. After high school, Tarrant became a personal trainer at the Big River Squash and Fitness Center, where he had earlier trained and become obsessive about building up his strength. I am a goddam monster of willpower. I just need a goal or object to work toward, Tarrant posted on social media in 2011, a year after his father died. Tracey Gray struggles to accept that the diligent fitness trainer she employed is the man accused of a horrific hate crime in Christchurch. I cant ... believe that somebody Ive probably had daily dealings with and had shared conversations and interacted with would be capable of something this extreme, Gray told Nine Network television. While working as a fitness centre, Tarrant ran free athletic programs for children, The Sydney Morning Herald reported. Grey said Tarrant had left Grafton by early 2012. He travelled the world, including what New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern described as sporadic visits there. Police say he spent little time in Australia during the past four years. Tarrant wrote that he developed his racist views while travelling in Europe in 2017. A woman who works at a Grafton news agency, who gave her name only as Brigid, told ABC that local residents were shocked by the events in Christchurch. It is very upsetting, actually, Brigid said. I think pretty much everyone is in the same boat of being very upset about it. Its not something you would expect from someone from such a small community because everyone is well known. PARIS - The Latest on yellow vest protests in France (all times local): 7:10 p.m. Yellow vest protesters say they have turned out in increased numbers in Paris on Saturday to show President Emmanuel Macron their disappointment after a two-month national debate ended Friday. Frank Leblanc, 62, from Nantes, said: It was hot wind. It was useless and it didnt achieve anything. Were here to show Macron that empty words are not enough. Francine Sevigny, from Lyon, said: Its bigger today because were marking the end of the big debate. All of the yellow vests in France were called to Paris today... Macron has given us no big solutions in the big debate. Marie, a mother of two from Seine-et-Marne who wouldnt give her surname, said: Im glad there are the thugs, because without them our movement wouldnt get any attention. We need the violence so we can be heard. Saturdays protests saw more than 100 people arrested amid rioting in the capital. Macron had led the national debate to respond to protesters concerns about sinking living standards, stagnant wages and high unemployment. ___ 6:15 p.m. French firefighters are working to extinguish a blaze in a Paris restaurant seen as a powerful symbol of Frances elite that was set amid yellow vest protest violence. The flames pouring out of the posh eatery Fouquets on the Champs-Elysees marked one of the most powerful images on a day of unusual unrest in the French capital. The restaurant was vandalized Saturday morning and later set ablaze. Several luxury boutiques along the elegant avenue were also ransacked, and kiosks set on fire. Fouquets is popular among celebrities and powerbrokers. Critics see the place as an offensive example of bourgeois decadence that is inaccessible to most French people, who are struggling to pay their bills. Its also associated with former conservative President Nicolas Sarkozy, who celebrated his 2007 election victory in Fouquets drawing criticism for his choice of such a flashy locale. ___ 5:45 p.m. French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe is vowing to severely punish the radicals responsible for rioting and setting fires around one of Frances richest neighbourhoods. Philippe visited the Champs-Elysees on Saturday to show his support for riot police and firefighters struggling to get the unrest under control after it broke out amid yellow vest protests. He estimated up to a few thousand troublemakers were responsible for Saturdays unacceptable violence. Speaking to reporters, he praised firefighters who saved people trapped in a building set fire by protesters. The situation remains tense Saturday along the Champs-Elysees after hours of violence and clashes with police firing tear gas and water cannon. Armoured vehicles and about 15 police vans are lined up at one spot, facing down a mixture of yellow-vested protesters and black-clad people who seemed to be seeking opportunities to target police. ___ 5 p.m. Paris police say more than 100 people have been arrested amid rioting in the French capital by yellow vest protesters. The violence started minutes after yellow vest protesters started gathering Saturday morning around the Arc de Triomphe. They set life-threatening fires, smashed up luxury stores and clashed with police firing tear gas and water cannon. Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said on French television that an estimated 10,000 protesters were taking in protests in Paris and another 4,500 were demonstrating around France. That was up from about 3,000 protesters in Paris last weekend. But the yellow vest numbers paled beside the 30,000 people taking part in a climate march weaving through Paris at the same time, according to Castaner. ___ 2:40 p.m. A bank has been set ablaze as French yellow vest protesters clash with police in Paris and firefighters had to rescue a mother and her child as the fire threatened to engulf their floor. Florian Lointier, spokesman for Paris firefighters, told The Associated Press that 11 people sustained light injuries Saturday in the blaze, including two firefighters. The fire in the bank, which was on the ground floor of a seven-story residential building near the Champs-Elysees Avenue, was later extinguished. Lointier said a mother and her child were saved from the flames on the second floor and other residents were safely evacuated. French yellow vest protesters are rioting in a 18th straight weekend of demonstrations against President Emmanuel Macron. ___ 12:15 p.m. Large plumes of smoke are rising above Paris landmark Champs-Elysees avenue as French yellow vest protesters set life-threatening fires, smashed up luxury stores and clashed with police in a 18th straight weekend of demonstrations against President Emmanuel Macron. Police tried to contain the demonstrators Saturday with tear gas and water cannons. Fire trucks rushed and extinguished two burning newspaper kiosks that had been set ablaze. Several protesters posed for a photo in front of a kiosks charred remains. The violence started when protesters threw smoke bombs and other objects at officers along the famed avenue in the French capital. The violence comes after a two-month national debate that Macron organized to respond to protesters concerns about sinking living standards, high unemployment, stagnant wages and general income inequality. DUBAI, United Arab Emirates - A U.S. Navy veteran from California has been sentenced to 10 years in prison in Iran, his lawyer said Saturday, becoming the first American known to be imprisoned there since President Donald Trump took office. Though the case against Michael R. White remains unclear, it comes as Trump has taken a hard-line approach to Iran by pulling the U.S. out of Tehrans nuclear deal with world powers. Iran, which in the past has used its detention of Westerners and dual nationals as leverage in negotiations, has yet to report on Whites sentence in state-controlled media. Its mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Obviously the concern is that the Iranians are using this as a tool against the United States, given the other individuals who are in custody, Washington-based lawyer Mark Zaid told The Associated Press. Whites arrest was first reported by IranWire, an online news service run by Iranian expatriates, which interviewed a former Iranian prisoner who said he met White at Vakilabad Prison in the northeastern city of Mashhad in October. In the time since, White has been convicted of insulting Irans supreme leader and posting private information online, Zaid said. He said the information surrounding the case remained vague. He learned of the sentence from the U.S. State Department, which in turn learned of it from the Swiss government, which looks after American interests in Iran. The State Department said late Saturday that it was aware of the detention of a U.S. citizen in Iran. We have no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens abroad, it said, without elaborating on the case. The New York Times first reported Whites 10-year sentence. Whites mother, Joanne White, had told the Times that her son, who lives in Imperial Beach, California, went to Iran to see a woman she described as his girlfriend and had booked a July 27 flight back home to San Diego via the United Arab Emirates. She filed a missing person report with the State Department after he did not board the flight. She added that he had been undergoing treatment for a neck tumour and has asthma. White worked as a cook in the U.S. Navy and left the service about a decade ago. Zaid said Saturday that White apparently travelled to Mashhad without informing the woman in advance. It remains difficult for Americans to get visas to Iran, 40 years after the Islamic Revolution and the U.S. Embassy hostage crisis. Thats certainly our concern, thats hes being used as a pawn, Zaid said. But were more in a confused state than an aware state. There are three other Americans known to be held in Iran. Iranian-American Siamak Namazi and his octogenarian father Baquer, a former UNICEF representative who served as governor of Irans oil-rich Khuzestan province under the U.S.-backed shah, are both serving 10-year sentences on espionage charges. Iranian-American art dealer Karan Vafadari and his Iranian wife, Afarin Neyssari, received 27-year and 16-year prison sentences, respectively. Chinese-American graduate student Xiyue Wang was sentenced to 10 years in prison for allegedly infiltrating the country while doing doctoral research on Irans Qajar dynasty. Iranian-American Robin Shahini was released on bail in 2017 after staging a hunger strike while serving an 18-year prison sentence for collaboration with a hostile government. Shahini has since return to America and is now suing Iran in U.S. federal court. Also in an Iranian prison is Nizar Zakka, a U.S. permanent resident from Lebanon who advocated for internet freedom and has done work for the U.S. government. He was sentenced to 10 years on espionage-related charges. Former FBI agent Robert Levinson, who vanished in Iran in 2007 while on an unauthorized CIA mission, remains missing. Iran says that Levinson is not in the country and that it has no further information about him, though his family holds Tehran responsible for his disappearance. ___ Follow Jon Gambrell on Twitter at www.twitter.com/jongambrellap . OUTSIDE BAGHOUZ, Syria - An international aid group says nearly 3,000 people have arrived at a tent settlement in northeastern Syria over the past two days after leaving the last area held by the Islamic State group. The International Rescue Committee said in a statement Saturday the new arrivals consisted of almost all women and children, bringing al-Hol camps population in Hassakeh province to over 69,000 people. It added that 122 people, mostly children and infants, had died making their way to the camp since December, mainly as a result of severe acute malnutrition, pneumonia, dehydration and diarrhea. Thousands of people, including IS fighters and their families, have left the last sliver of land held by IS over the past weeks as U.S.-backed fighters slowly advance on the area near the Iraqi border. JACKSON, Miss. - A federal appeals court told Mississippi lawmakers to redraw a state Senate district where a judge found that black residents voting power had been diluted. A panel of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals gave the order Friday, denying a request by state officials to delay the impact of a ruling that U.S. District Judge Carlton Reeves issued last month. Reeves said Senate District 22 should be redrawn because it fails to give African-American voters an equal opportunity to elect a candidate of their choice. The appeals court wrote that a majority of members on its three-judge panel found there is not a strong likelihood that state officials ultimately would persuade them to overturn Reeves ruling. Three black residents sued the state in July, saying the composition of the district violates the Voting Rights Act. It stretches through parts of six counties, including poor and mostly black parts of the Delta into the affluent and mostly white Jackson suburbs of Madison County. It has a 51 per cent black voting-age population and a white senator, Republican Buck Clarke of Hollandale, who was first elected in 2003 under a somewhat different configuration of the district. Clarke is not seeking re-election this year because hes running for state treasurer. The Court of Appeals quite properly confirmed Judge Reeves ruling that lines of District 22 should be changed for this years election. That configuration added wealthy majority-white suburbs in Madison County to an otherwise largely African-American rural district in the Delta to dilute African-American voting strength in violation of the Voting Rights Act, Rob McDuff, one of the plaintiffs attorneys, said in a statement Friday. McDuff, Mississippi Center for Justice and the Washington-based Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law were among those representing African-Americans who brought the lawsuit, including a former state lawmaker who lost to Clarke in 2015. An attorney for the state could not immediately be reached after business hours Friday. Mississippi has 52 state Senate districts, and all of the states legislative seats are up for election this year. The current district lines were set in 2012 and have been used since the 2015 legislative elections. Both Reeves and the appeals court judges acknowledged that redrawing District 22 will require at least one nearby Senate district to be redrawn, as well. The appeals court set an April 3 deadline for lawmakers to draw the new districts. Candidates qualifying deadline for all legislative races was March 1, but the appeals court said the qualifying deadline in the newly drawn districts will be April 12. ____ Follow Emily Wagster Pettus on Twitter: http://twitter.com/EWagsterPettus . BANGOR, Maine - Sen. Angus King said after a meeting with the acting interior secretary in Bangor that the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monuments existence is settled. King, who met Friday with Acting Interior Secretary David Bernhardt, said theres a line for the monument in the presidents budget submitted last week. The Bangor Daily News reports that Bernhardt spent Thursday touring parts of Acadia National Park. The Katahdin Woods and Watters discussion on Friday included some business owners from the Katahdin region. The Trump administration previously reviewed the monument created on land donated by the family of Burts Bees co-founder Roxanne Quimby. The land includes a 17-mile loop road with views of Mount Katahdin; trails for hiking, mountain biking and snowmobiling; and paddling on the Penobscot Rivers East Branch. ___ Information from: Bangor Daily News, http://www.bangordailynews.com EVERETT, Wash. - The trial has been delayed for a Washington state trucker accused of killing a young Canadian couple in 1987. The Daily Herald reports a judge Thursday rescheduled the trial of 55-year-old William Earl Talbott II for June 3. It was previously scheduled to begin next month. The SeaTac man has pleaded not guilty to aggravated murder charges in the killings of 18-year-old Tanya Van Cuylenborg and 20-year-old Jay Cook. Defence attorneys requested more time, saying they havent yet received lab notes and they plan to travel to Canada to talk to witnesses. The young couple was killed on a road trip from their hometown of Saanich, British Columbia, to Seattle. Authorities say information from public genealogy websites led to identifying Talbott as a suspect. ___ Information from: The Daily Herald, http://www.heraldnet.com BBNaija housemate Bamike aka Bam Bam is one stunning woman. The model/actress has released a beautiful image of herself which sees her donning an outfit made from sheer and feather. Recall Bam Bam came under massive heat after she attended an event in a feathery outfit, causing her to become a hot topic on social media, well it seems she does have a thing or two for outfits such as that and yes, she is always stunning in them. HAMMOND, Ind. - Prosecutors have said they are still determining which confidential items they can share with attorneys defending an Indiana woman who is accused of providing tactical gear and funds to two Islamic State fighters. Assistant U.S. Attorney Abizer Zanzi said at a status hearing in federal court Thursday that the government has shared discovery that is not confidential with the attorneys for Samantha Elhassani, the Post-Tribune reported. Items that could be subject to the Classified Information Procedures Act will only be shared if the information is relevant and helpful to the defence, Zanzi said, citing national security interests. Elhassani, 32, pleaded not guilty last year to conspiracy to provide material support to IS, and aiding and abetting individuals in providing material support to the group. The woman, of Elkhart, Indiana, is accused of aiding the two IS fighters between the fall of 2014 and the summer of 2015, despite knowing the group is an active terrorist organization. Elhassanis attorneys, Thomas Durkin and Joshua Herman, have security clearances, but that doesnt mean they automatically have access to confidential information, Zanzi said. Judge Philip Simon will determine which confidential information Elhassanis attorneys can see. Attorneys on both sides said theyre on track for the January 2020 trial. Elhassani told reporters for the BBC and PBS that during a 2015 vacation in Turkey, her Moroccan husband, Moussa Elhassani, tricked her into travelling with their children to Syria, where he became an IS militant. Moussa Elhassani has since died, according to attorneys. Samantha Elhassani told CNN her husband was killed in a drone strike last year. She and her children ended up in a Kurdish detention camp and were transferred to U.S. custody in July 2018 by U.S-backed, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces. The defence has argued that Elhassani was a victim of domestic violence and patriarchal abuse, who was forced to follow the crazy man she married. Prosecutors say Elhassani knowingly followed her husband to Syria and put her children in danger. MILWAUKEE - A childs body found wrapped in a blanket along a Minnesota highway is believed to be that of a missing 2-year-old girl whose mom police have said was fatally shot by her former pimp, authorities announced Saturday. The discovery of the childs body came hours after officials had put out a plea asking the entire nation to help find Noelani Robinson, whose father, Dariaz Higgins, is charged with killing her mom in Milwaukee on Monday. Police had said the child could be anywhere because her parents had travelled through numerous states. An off-duty public works employee found the body thats believed to be Noelanis while driving home Friday night, Milwaukee Police Chief Alfonso Morales told reporters. The body was inside a blanket off the shoulder of Minnesota Highway 218 north of Austin, about 300 miles (483 kilometres) west of Milwaukee, Morales said. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension said in a statement Saturday night that Higgins had stayed at a hotel in Austin at some point in the past week. How and when the child died is not yet known. An autopsy has not been conducted yet, but authorities believe the death did not occur in the last 24 hours and that the girl had been there for quite some time, Morales said. He would not comment on the condition of the body, but the BCA said the child died from blunt force trauma to the head. Asked whether authorities believe Higgins was responsible for the childs death, Morales told reporters, Thats where the criminal investigation is shooting for. Its just too early to tell. Authorities have not disclosed a motive in the death of the girls mom, 24-year-old Sierra Robinson. Police said Higgins was Robinsons pimp and they had been romantically involved but were no longer together. Robinson had left Noelani with Higgins when she moved to Las Vegas last month but wanted her back, authorities said. Higgins, 34, is accused of fatally shooting Robinson and wounding one of her friends. Police arrested him Wednesday and prosecutors have charged him with first-degree intentional homicide. Online court records do not list an attorney who could comment on his behalf. The friend told police that Higgins had been living in Miami when he agreed to meet Robinson in Milwaukee to return Noelani to her. However, charging documents list a Milwaukee address for Higgins. According to those documents, Higgins, Robinson, and her friend spent time driving around together in Milwaukee doing drugs Monday, before Higgins took them to an apartment building where he told them Noelani was. Authorities have not said whether they believe Noelani was there at the time. Prosecutors said Higgins shot Robinson and her friend when they got out of the car. An Amber Alert had been issued for Noelani but was cancelled Saturday. Morales had suggested Friday that Noelani could be in the hands of human traffickers, but declined to provide details for why investigators believed that, other than to say, Thats the world that these two individuals lived in, the victim and the suspect. The chief said Saturday that his department has sent two detectives to Minnesota. This is our job, and the closure is not the closure we like to find. But ... its something that we have to come out and do, Morales said. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. - The suspect in last years Florida high school massacre told officers moments after his capture he was hearing demons, a statement that could be used if his attorneys mount an insanity defence. Body-camera video released by prosecutors begins with Nikolas Cruz handcuffed and face down on the ground on Feb. 14, 2018, with an officer kneeling beside him, helicopters roaring overhead. The shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School that killed 17 had ended an hour earlier, and Cruz had been captured in a Coral Springs neighbourhood two miles from the school by Coconut Creek officer Michael Leonard. Leonard had recognized Cruz by the burgundy Stoneman Douglas Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps shirt and black jeans the shooter had been wearing. Cruz has pleaded not guilty, but his attorneys have said he would plead guilty for a life sentence. They have not said whether they will attempt an insanity defence. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty. In the body camera video released Friday, the unidentified Coral Springs officer wearing it asks the then 19-year-old suspect casually, Whats going on today, bro? Cruz replies, Demons, man. Demons? the officer asks, playing with a piece of string in his hands. Voices, Cruz replies. Cruz then says Where are the noises? and cranes his neck to look up at the circling helicopters. He begins cursing and asks where he is. What happened? Cruz yells. The officer kneeling by Cruz tells him firmly, Shut up, while the officer wearing the body camera says, Just be quiet, man. Inserting a profanity, Cruz says to himself, What the...did you do? Now out of view of the camera, Cruz sounds like he is sobbing and hyperventilating. The officer wearing the camera trots to his nearby SUV to retrieve his cellphone and sends a text message. As he returns, Cruz can be heard weeping in the background, cursing at himself. The two-minute video soon ends. Hours later, Cruz would tell detectives during an interrogation that he has long heard demons, according to redacted transcripts released in August. Cruz told detectives the voice appeared after his father died about 15 years ago but got worse after his mother died of pneumonia in November 2017, three months before the shooting. Cruz described the voice as a male, about his age, and said the only person he ever told about it was his brother. Detective John Curcio asked what the voice told him. Burn. Kill. Destroy, Cruz responded. Burn, kill, destroy what? the detective asked. Anything, Cruz responded. He told Curcio he had to fight the voice from taking over, that it was always bad. Curcio questioned that, asking how it could always be bad if Cruz had held down a job at a discount store for two years. The voice is in here, he said, apparently pointing to his head. And then its me. Its just regular me trying to be a good person. Curcio said everyone has a good and bad side. Do they really? Cruz said. Cruzs trial is tentatively scheduled for early next year, but no date has been set. NEW YORK - A new, troublesome topic hovered over the St. Patricks Day parade in New York this year: Britains failed Brexit deal with the European Union that could squeeze Irelands economy. But nothing could put a damper on the largest American celebration of Irish heritage on Saturday, with tens of thousands of marchers following a painted green line up Fifth Avenue for the six-hour procession. Kevin Coughlan, a 27-year-old spectator wearing pants with four-leaf clovers, captured both the New York celebration and the political near-catastrophe overseas, where he still has plenty of family in Ireland. Ive always been so proud to be an Irish-American, and thats what today is about; its more than just one big party, its about celebrating our freedom, said the Hoboken, New Jersey, resident. His mood darkened when he turned to Brexit, which is definitely something were all worried about, especially my family, he said. I mean, were all sort of just waiting for the shoe to drop to see what this means for the Irish economy. But, he added, We can get through anything; we survived a potato famine. This years official parade theme was immigration, with Brian ODwyer, an immigration attorney and activist as the grand marshal. Hes a co-founder of the Emerald Isle Immigration Center in Queens that helps clients including a group of Latino immigrants that joined ODwyer on Saturday. Through its history, dating back more than 250 years, the New York parade has often had a political element. In the 1970s and 1980s, as sectarian violence flared in Northern Ireland, there were controversies over the inclusion of groups supporting the militant wing of the Irish Republican Army. A banner reading England get out of Ireland has flown in the parade since the 1940s. And for more than two decades, LGBTQ groups were officially banned from marching, until 2015, when marchers under a banner linked to NBC were first allowed in, opening the doors to other LGBTQ participants since then. This years march is taking place amid a new set of questions about relations between the United Kingdom and Ireland. When the Irish take to the streets this Saturday for the 258th St. Patricks Day Parade, our thoughts will take us far beyond the festivities on Fifth Ave. to Washington, D.C., and to the British Parliament in London, ODwyer wrote in an editorial in the Daily News. British lawmakers are struggling to find a way to exit the European Union without disrupting the two-decade old peace accords that created an open border between the Republic of Ireland, which is in the E.U., and Northern Ireland, which is in the U.K. This week, with a March 29 deadline looming, British lawmakers voted to seek to delay Brexit for at least three months. But the possibility exists that the line between the two parts of Ireland, which has been unguarded for 20 years, will once again become hardened with vehicle checkpoints, with trade rules and tariffs in force. It is pretty ironic that were celebrating Irish freedom and unity over here, while theyre debating the Irish border over there, said paradegoer Chris Mahan, 56. All of my cousins are still back in the old country, as we call it. They still dont know what Brexit will mean for them, for their economy and yea, even their unity as a nation. But for most at Saturdays parade, the political debate over the future in Ireland took a back seat to the pageantry. For me, today is so important because after all the suffering and all the tragedy, we came through. Were here and were healthy, Carol McNiff said, a third generation Irish-American. St. Patricks Day is about memories, for me. A proud heritage, said Cathy Dwyer, 61. The Queens resident has been coming to the parade since she was a young girl. Id say my fondest memory was watching my husband march in this parade. And then watching my kids march. One of the proudest moments of my life. Popular marching groups include the pipes and drums corps for the Emerald Societies at the New York police and fire departments and the 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment, of the New York Army National Guard, which has led off the parade since 1851. Elsewhere in the U.S., the largest St. Patricks Day parade in the South was held in Savannah, Georgia. Started by Irish immigrants to Georgias oldest city 195 years ago, the March parade has ballooned into a sprawling street party thats the No. 1 tourist draw for Savannah. Savannahs like a bad drug, said Bruce Souers, a Savannah native whos been attending parades for five decades, as he sipped Jameson Irish whiskey from a plastic cup. Once its in your blood, you cant get rid of it. Over in Chicago, the river there was dyed green, a tradition that dates back decades. Thousands line up to watch members of Chicago Plumbers Local 130 dump and spray the dye into the river from boats. DUBUQUE, Iowa - As she waited to meet former Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper at a recent house party in Dubuque, attorney Connie OConnor was anxious about the liberal direction of the Democratic presidential primary. I know a lot of people who dont want to vote for Donald Trump but dont necessarily want to vote for the presidential version of Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez, she said, referring to the recently elected progressive congresswoman from New York. I think we forget those people are out there. But about 80 miles away, union organizer Eli Shepherd pointed to the thousands of people flocking to a Bernie Sanders rally at the University of Iowa as proof that the self-described democratic socialist is best positioned to beat the Republican now in the White House. People get brought in (to the campaign) because its something they deeply care about, Shepherd said. When theres a campaign thats actually focused on that, thats whats exciting, thats whats transformative, thats how you win. Democrats have a long fight ahead over this question of whos right. The early days of the Democratic contest are dominated by a debate over whether candidates such as Sanders are moving the party too far left or whether the embrace of liberal priorities will fire up the base and help defeat Trump. That debate is sure to deepen if former Vice-President Joe Biden enters the race and tries to establish himself as a prominent centrist counterweight to Sanders, a Vermont senator. In the opening days of his 2020 campaign, former Texas Rep. Beto ORourke has also sought to appeal to both parties. Theres a tension, and thats what presidential campaigns are about, said Simon Rosenberg of the New Democratic Network. So far, the candidates are racing to prove their progressive bona fides on issues such as Medicare for All and the Green New Deal. Yet surveys suggest Democratic voters are less eager to tack left. A Monmouth Poll last month found 56 per cent of registered Democrats said their top priority was a candidate who could beat Trump even if they disagreed with that person on most issues. A Pew Research Center poll in January found that 53 per cent of Democrats wanted the party to become more moderate, while 40 per cent wanted it to become more liberal. Though a few insurgents won Democratic congressional primaries last year, most notably Ocasio-Cortez, most of those contests were captured by candidates backed by the party establishment. Recent campaign swings through Iowa, the nations leadoff caucus state, by Sanders and by Hickenlooper, a self-described extreme moderate, illustrated the contradiction in the Democratic field. For the Sanders appearance in Iowa City, the soundtrack at the University of Iowa student union featured Tracy Chapmans Talking About A Revolution and Muses Uprising. Well over 1,000 people wore Sanders T-shirts, hats and buttons, some with 2016-era gear and others sporting the newer 2020 models on sale outside the hall. Cheri Pichone, a disability representative, brought a Sanders action figure to the rally. Pichone voted for Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein in 2016 because she said she believed the Democrats cheated to deny Sanders the nomination and shes worried it could happen again. I dont honestly see how anybody could beat him fairly, Pichone said. The crowd broke into a deafening roar as Sanders walked to the podium. This, he said, is where the political revolution began. Sanders was referring to the 2016 caucuses, when he came within a few votes of defeating front-runner Hillary Clinton in Iowa. Now Sanders is an early leader, raising at least $10 million, almost all in small-dollar donations, since launching his campaign Feb. 19. The initial sound of Hickenloopers first Iowa swing as a presidential candidate was a beer glass shattering. Someone inside the packed meeting room at Confluence Brewery in Des Moines dropped a mug just as Hickenlooper walked in. Hickenlooper began scooping up shards of glass. Theres nobody in this room whos cleaned up more broken beer glasses than me, Hickenlooper said. Hickenlooper started a brewpub in a then-desolate stretch of downtown Denver after being laid off from his job as a geologist in the 1980s. The business took off, made Hickenlooper wealthy and helped propel him into the Denver mayors office. In Des Moines, he stood in front of a wall of beer cans strategically arranged to create the number 2020, and talked about persuading Republican mayors of suburbs to join Denver in pushing a tax increase to pay for light rail. He recounted, after being elected governor in 2010, how he was able to get the energy industry and environmentalists to agree on limits on methane gas emissions. He bemoaned a national crisis of division. People in Washington, they spend their lives talking about stuff and debating and pointing fingers and blaming the other side, Hickenlooper said, in an apparent dig at the various senators running. Its about time to bring people together and get stuff done. In contrast to Sanders, Hickenlooper starts with no base outside of Colorado and little name recognition. He acknowledged hes a dark horse. One of the most common questions Hickenlooper was asked in Iowa was whether he was related to an Iowa governor and senator with the same last name who served from the 1930s to the 1960s. (The Iowa politician was indeed a distant relative.) The day after his Des Moines appearance, Hickenlooper stopped at five separate locations across the state. Joel Greenwald, 64, a retired banker, shook Hickenloopers hand at an event in Cedar Falls. Theyre pushing free, free, free, Greenwald said about supporters of Sanders and other liberals. Youre going to turn off a lot of Republicans and independents if you say free free free. But Greenwald isnt a Hickenlooper supporter. Hes waiting for Biden, who is teasing Democrats with the possibility of a third White House run. Hickenlooper received enthusiastic cheers when he spoke and wound up his trip in another crowded brewpub in Cedar Rapids. After Hickenlooper gave his speech, the crowd gathered around him. Karla Goettel, 69, made a beeline for the candidate and complained about his refusal on the television show Morning Joe to call himself a capitalist. There are a bunch of Democrats who are pissed off at capitalism, Hickenlooper told her. Goettel said Hickenlooper knew he messed up the question. Theyre all trying to be careful not to be too far right or too far left, she said. I just want to find someone electable. ALBANY, N.Y. - The New York National Guard will partner with Brazil to conduct joint training missions and military exchanges. National Guard officials say the state program agreement was signed Thursday in Manhattan by Maj. Gen. Raymond Shields, the adjutant general of New York, and Rear Admiral Guilherme da Silva Costa, representing the Brazilian Armed Forces. The agreement is the latest program that pairs the state National Guard with the militaries of foreign countries. U.S. military officials say the nation now has partnerships with 83 countries. New York has sizable Brazilian-American communities in Westchester, Queens and Manhattan. The states defence forces include the Army National Guard, the Air National Guard, the New York Guard and the New York Naval Militia. DETROIT - A rabbi who packs a gun. A church installing security cameras. A police car protecting a mosque. Houses of worship have traditionally been places of refuge where strangers are welcome. But high-profile attacks in recent years on an African-American church in Charleston, South Carolina, a synagogue in Pittsburgh and now mosques in New Zealand have made many worshippers and their prayer leaders rethink how protected sanctuaries really are. People are fearful for their lives, for their houses of worship, for the sanctuary of this mosque and other places of worship like the synagogues and African-American churches that are being attacked. People are concerned, said Imam Mohannad Hakeem while attending Friday prayers at the Islamic Center of Detroit. He spoke after a horrifying attack in New Zealand left 50 people dead at two mosques during midday prayers. A 28-year-old Australian is the main suspect and called himself in a manifesto a white nationalist out to avenge attacks in Europe by Muslims. History shows sanctuaries are not immune from violence, as illustrated by bombings at African-American churches during the Civil Rights era. And in countries struggling with sectarian violence, attacks on houses of worship are much more frequent. But for countries at peace, the attacks are much rarer. For many, houses of worship are sanctuaries where congregants bond with their shared sense of faith and community. The recent attacks have made some question whether houses of worship have turned into soft targets, losing some of their sense of sacredness. In the parking lot of the Islamic Center of Detroit Friday, a watchful police officer sat in a squad car, keeping an eye out for any signs of potential trouble. Worshippers thanked the officer offering him food, drinks, a handshake. Inside, Dearborn Police Chief Ronald Haddad greeted congregants with handshakes and hugs. Dearborn is a Detroit suburb with a large Arab and Muslim population. Haddad said he doesnt know if houses of worship are more of a target today than in previous times, but the scale and scope of the attacks in New Zealand clearly attracted his attention. Given what happened in New Zealand last night, we want to make sure that our community feels safe and secure, he said. In Chicago, the Muslim Community Center and the Downtown Islamic Center increased security during Friday prayers. Several armed police officers stood guard outside and inside throughout the afternoon service. Dana Al-Qadi, 29, an engineer, was committed to attending after the attacks but said doing so brings her a feeling of peace mixed with fear. People are their most vulnerable when theyre at the masjid (mosque). Its where they bring their worries, their weaknesses, and try to speak to God. Theyre in such a vulnerable state of mind and spirit. In that moment, someone decided to be such a transgressor. That brings me so much sadness, she said. For many in the Jewish community, last years synagogue shooting attack in Pittsburgh sparked a similar sense of vulnerability. Eleven people died in what was the worst attack on Jews in U.S. history on Oct. 27 when an anti-Semitic truck driver is believed to have spewed his hatred of Jews as he opened fire on the Tree of Life Congregation synagogue. Robert Bowers has pleaded not guilty to counts including using a firearm to commit murder and obstruction of religious exercise resulting in death. After the attack, Rabbi Yaakov Zucker of Chabad Jewish Center in the small town of Key West started going to target practice along with a handful of congregants. We pray on one hand, but were also armed on the other hand, not in a vigilante way ... I hope Ill never have to use it, but I am ready for any threat that enters my temple. I do feel responsibility, he said. Zucker said he doesnt have the funds to hire a full-time security guard but makes sure at least one other person at the temple is also armed. After the Pittsburgh attack, he started asking local police to hang out during big events or for holidays and he says theyve obliged. He lamented that temples and other places of worship, always seen as places of refuge are now soft targets and said he fears copycats after the New Zealand attack. African-American churches struggled with similar challenges after the June 17, 2015 shooting at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina, in which a 21-year-old white supremacist killed nine parishioners. Jamaal Weathersby, the pastor at New Hope Baptist Church in New Orleans, said the attack was a turning point for his church and others in terms of thinking about their security. Their church has eight or nine doors, he said, but now people are only allowed through one entrance for services. Security cameras were installed and security agents will be hired for an upcoming revival. I think that now the way that people think about church in general whether it is the mosque, synagogue or what have you, its not sacred anymore, he said. In Jackson, Mississippi, the New Horizon Church International beefed up security after the Charleston shooting, but Bishop Ronnie Crudup said its important for the church not lose its open and welcoming environment. We seek to not lose ourselves and our own purpose and who were supposed to be as we react to the present dilemmas that were in, he said. Even with heightened security, worshippers said the attacks would not prevent them from gathering together for prayer. In Chicago at the packed Muslim Community Center on Friday, the imam told his congregants they cannot be afraid to come to the mosque. And it the Ramat Shalom Synagogue in Plantation, Florida, congregant Allan Ribbler warned against fear overcoming faith. If you let things like this stop you from doing this, weve given up our lives, said Ribbler. __ Kennedy reported from Plantation, Florida, and Santana reported from New Orleans. Jeff Karoub in Detroit and Noreen Nasir in Chicago contributed to this report. BEAVER FALLS, Pa. - The fragile, yellowed, woodblock manuscript is in relatively good condition, remarkable considering its age and the location where it was found: in a dark, dank storage closet in the Beaver Falls Historical Museum in the bowels of the Carnegie Free Library on Seventh Avenue. Its garnered worldwide attention, especially in the Chinese community, as its considered to be a masterpiece of Chinese literature on par with Shakespeare in the West. The Story of the Stone/A Dream of Red Mansions, written by Cao Xueqin in the mid-18th century during the Qing dynasty, still is required reading for all Chinese. The classic a daunting tome with close to 400 characters and written in vernacular Chinese, first circulated in woodblock manuscripts until its first print publication in 1791. The fictional work, largely a love story, chronicles the rise and fall of an aristocratic family in Beijing. How the manuscript on rice paper, estimated to be at least 175, possibly 200, years old, came to Beaver Falls is fascinating history. But equally so is the story of its discovery in the historical museum. Betty Anderson of Brighton Township is director of the Beaver Falls Historical Museum, charged with acquisition and preservation of collections and artifacts. Basement archives filling five rooms, two of which are storage have about reached capacity, she said. We collect everything, Anderson said, much of it donated treasures from people cleaning out attics and basements or gifted by estates. Ive been gifted the last two to three weeks at least 40 boxes of things and articles. Theyre everywhere here. About five years ago, she went into one of the storage rooms a room that had not been entered in at least 50 to 60 years, she said. I peeked in it 30 years ago. I couldnt get in, she said, so stacked it was with boxes. Anderson doesnt remember what she was looking for this time, but reached into a box and felt something soft: seven chapters of a rare, woodblock manuscript bound in tightly woven thread. Of course, with it being written in Chinese characters, she had no idea what it was or its historical significance, but thought it would complement the museums Beaver Falls Cutlery Co. collection. The manuscript with an intrinsic value thats priceless, she said was simply displayed on a shelf in a locked, glass case alongside knives, forks, photographs, illustrations and other artifacts pertaining to the cutlery company that operated in the city from 1867 to 1886. ___ New York-based SinoVision, a Chinese language television network, produced a documentary on a rare Chinese manuscript found in a closet of the Beaver Falls Historical Museum. It aired in China and includes scenes of the museum, Beaver Falls and parts of Beaver County. (Heres a link to watch: video.sinovision.net/?id=47595&cid=/&sts=1548352564847). ___ But first, Anderson, with remarkable encyclopedic recall, tells a riveting story about how Chinese arrived in Beaver Falls. Like most immigrants, Chinese workers came to America to escape economic hardship and build a better life for their families. Many first came to California to mine gold after the precious metal was discovered in the Sacramento Valley in 1848. When the Gold Rush ended in 1855, many stayed on to help build railroads across the country, including the First Transcontinental Railroad. About a decade later, 255 Chinese labourers were contracted to work in Beaver Falls. Beaver Falls Cutlery Co. was an enterprise of Harmonists at Old Economy in Ambridge. The society first established a company in Rochester in 1866 to make pocket knives, expanding a year later in the south end of Beaver Falls to not only produce pocket knives, but tableware knives, kitchen knives and forks. Handles alone are works of art, Anderson said, many formed of ivory and mother-of-pearl. A labour dispute culminated in a strike in 1872. Company officials reached out to John Reeves, a prominent citizen and banker in town. Reeves first travelled to California, hoping to entice Chinese to fill jobs of striking workers. They didnt drink and they worked hard, Anderson said, willing to work for lesser wages. When they refused to uproot and travel east, Reeves found willing Chinese labourers in Louisiana who were finishing work on a railroad there. Contracted for five years, they were paid one gold coin a day for 30 days. They travelled by rail about a hundred men at a time, Anderson said arriving at the former New Brighton-Beaver Falls train station, and then walked four blocks to the cutlery. Understandably, striking workers werent hospitable. Some of the men were angry because they were going to lose their jobs, Anderson said. When the train arrived, some grouped at the station, but before any trouble ensued, Reeves and a constable kept them at bay, she said. Two interpreters accompanied the newcomers who were housed in a beautiful, big stone building called Patterson Manor about 50 feet from the factory and where today stands Beaver County Fruit Co. Anderson estimated four to eight workers slept in a room, perhaps in bunks. They discarded pillows given to them, preferring to rest their heads on wood blocks instead, she said. Though Chinese workers largely kept to themselves, they were a curiosity to townspeople. They were in awe, said Anderson. People came just to look at them. Men dressed in silk clothes, wore sandals and tied their hair in pigtails. They built small, wooden structures adjacent to the manor where they laundered clothes and roasted pigs over fire pits. One story has it that two roasted pigs dangling from a pole were marched right into the superintendents office of the cutlery and put on his desk, Anderson said, given as a gift. Many of the churches in town would not deal with them, she said, afraid that if their pastor befriended the foreigners, theyd lose worshippers. But one church was accepting a Presbyterian church on the end of Eighth Street, a church since torn down. They brought them into the church, fed them, started to talk with them, teach them English, said Anderson. One worker fell in love with a girl who tutored him, but the relationship abruptly ended when she was sent away, said Anderson. During their five-year stay, 10 workers died and were buried in a cemetery on 27th Street, which today is a playground. Years ago, their bodies were exhumed, sent to Louisiana and then to China, said Anderson. Mr. Reeves was very respectful of what happened to them, she said. A third interpreter would come to Beaver Falls, a man of means who brought his wife. Its believed shes the one who brought Xueqins manuscript of The Story of the Stone to Beaver Falls. Anderson said she has no idea how it wound up in a dusty box in the museums closet. It took Xueqin 40 years to write the book, she said. He wrote intermittently, a few chapters at time that would be bound, copied and shared freely with friends and family. Xueqin died in 1763 before finishing his book. He wrote 80 chapters and its said 40 more were written by Gao E. Its first print publication was in 1791. Penguin Classics, publisher of global, classic literature, translated and published five volumes of The Story of the Stone in 1973, consisting of more than 2,000 pages. An absolute treasure A few years ago, a young man and woman of Chinese ancestry visited Beaver Falls Historical Museum from Kent State University in Ohio. Anderson thought they might be interested in the cutlery display and directed them to the showcase. The man leaned in, looked at the manuscript and told Anderson it was displayed upside down, she said laughing. She unlocked the case and handed it to him to look at more closely. You have one of the four most important books in China, he told her. Those words still bring tears to her eyes at the realization that we have something so precious, she said. Its just amazing. Anderson knew shed have to research the books history. But first she had to preserve and protect the fragile manuscript. She and staff volunteers carefully copied approximately 300 pages of their seven chapters. The original, encased in special archival materials that limit exposure to light, is now stored in a bank vault only to be viewed by appointment. I want people to see it, she said. It isnt that Im hiding it. I have to preserve it. It is gorgeous and it is so rare. Andersons research into the manuscript was easier than thought thanks to another visitor. He, too, was affiliated with a museum she doesnt remember what or where and asked permission to photograph the cutlery display. She agreed, though at the time said she had no clue what he did with the information. He shared it online, which attracted the attention of a trio of Chinese researchers whose mission is to preserve their history. About a year ago, Qian Cathy Huang of New York contacted Anderson, having seen the online post. She asked 100 million questions all through the year, on and off, Anderson said, and also received a copy of the manuscript, which she took to Beijing Normal University. A scholar there authenticated it. He was excited to death about this, Anderson said. Last fall, Huang and her colleagues Chang Wang, an attorney from Minnesota, and Wei Ming Yao of Pittsburgh, visited Beaver Falls Historical Museum to see the original manuscript and other artifacts of Chinese who worked at Beaver Falls Cutlery Co. Wang told Anderson that finding the manuscript is like finding a Shakespearean manuscript. They wanted to see everything where the train station, company and mansion were, the Presbyterian Church, the cemetery and other parts of the city and county and produced a documentary thats posted on their Facebook page and YouTube. ___ From their visit and research, New York-based SinoVision, a Chinese language television network, also produced a documentary that aired in China. It includes scenes of the museum, Beaver Falls and parts of Beaver County. Heres a link to watch: video.sinovision.net/?id=47595&cid=/&sts=1548352564847. ___ Anderson said likely there are other Xueqin manuscripts in existence, but this is the first one people can come and see. The others are in private collections. She pulled an envelope from her desk and removed a handwritten note card from a Chinese couple in California who saw the documentary and love the book. This came in the mail, she said, along with a donation to the museum: What you, Mrs. Anderson, and your colleagues did, still doing, means so much for not only those early immigrants, but more for the new generation of Chinese immigrants. Youre the warriors who fight for history to be remembered to remind us who we are and where we came from ... What you are doing is to preserve the essentials of America. Keep going. Its wonderful. Its very kind, she said, but quickly added it isnt her intent to make money off the manuscript. However, she hopes it spurs tourism and more visitors to Beaver Falls and the museum. I do not know if it will be a tourist thing. I do not know if there will be an influx of people to come and see it. We will welcome it, she said. Soon, Anderson plans to host an open house so the public can view it. This is a find. An absolute treasure. Amazing. Who would have thought? ___ Online: https://bit.ly/2u0LWfe ___ Information from: Beaver County Times, http://www.timesonline.com/ WASHINGTON - As President Donald Trump struggled with mounting Republican defections over his emergency declaration to pay for a border wall, his acting White House chief of staff wasnt on Capitol Hill cajoling former colleagues or in the West Wing making calls. Instead, Mick Mulvaney was in Las Vegas for an annual getaway with friends and family. It was a telling example of Mulvaneys laissez-faire approach as he settles into a role that has bedeviled those who came before him. His predecessor, retired four-star Gen. John Kelly, tried to micromanage Trump but ended up grating on the president and antagonizing outside allies. Mulvaney has made clear he believes his job is to manage the staff and not the president, according to current and former officials and people close to him. And hes OK with that. Mulvaney doesnt try to limit whom the president speaks with or curb access to the Oval Office. He just asks that those who talk to Trump fill him in on what was discussed to avoid surprises. While former staffers compare the current atmosphere in the West Wing to the early, chaotic days of the administration, when the Oval Office had the feel of Grand Central Station, Mulvaney understands thats how Trump likes it. The former South Carolina congressman has focused on and succeeded in improving staff morale in a building known for infighting and damaging leaks. Shortly after his arrival, Mulvaney organized a staff retreat at Camp David. He also has worked to build relationship on Capitol Hill, where he served for years. He schmoozed with lawmakers on the sidelines of the State of the Union speech and invited them to a Camp David retreat as well. Its an approach that some outside the building question. The chief of staff has to be able to manage down as well as up, said Chris Whipple, author of The Gatekeepers: How the White House chiefs of staff define every presidency. I dont think hes been empowered and I think thats a mistake. Mulvaneys tenure has coincided with an especially tumultuous time in Washington, beginning with the fight over border wall money that caused the longest government shutdown in the nations history. He was at the table in Vietnam for Trumps abruptly terminated summit with North Koreas leader and has watched as newly empowered House Democrats have launched investigations into Trumps dealings. Trump has been known to make remarks undercutting Mulvaney in front of him, giving some the impression that Trump already may be souring on his third chief of staff in as many years. But by all accounts, Mulvaney is a happy warrior who generally gets along well with the equally blunt president, is well liked by staff and brushes off slights. Though Trump gave Mulvaney the job on an acting basis last December, Trump doesnt appear likely to replace him anytime soon. Mulvaney has the added benefit of getting along well with Trumps daughter Ivanka Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner, both senior advisers with enormous internal power. Mulvaney, who has personal experience working in a family business, understands their unique positions. He built relationships with both as Trumps budget director and has had dinner with their family. Hes trying to do the best he can with what he has to work with, said Leon Panetta, a former chief of staff to President Bill Clinton who also served as budget director, defence secretary and CIA director. Like others interviewed, Panetta said it would be impossible to serve as a typical chief in Trumps White House. All you can do is be there, respond to the president when you can, try to maintain some semblance of order and try to keep things at least halfway on track and not collapsing into total chaos, Panetta said. Mulvaney, who technically also retains the title of budget director , remains engaged in policy and budget issues, which made his absence in recent days especially notable. He left on Wednesday afternoon as the White House was mounting a final effort to try to stop GOP senators from backing a resolution to block Trumps emergency order. Mulvaney was absent for Thursdays vote, when a dozen Republican senators joined Democrats in rebuking the president. And he was still gone Friday when Trump issued the first veto of his presidency, overruling the vote to terminate his declaration. The White House defended Mulvaneys decision to take the trip, which senior strategy adviser John Czwartacki said was part of a 25-year tradition. Mulvaney was to return to Washington on Saturday, in time to appear on the Sunday talk shows, and worked throughout his trip, talking to senators and at least a half-dozen staffers and receiving briefings on the shooting in New Zealand, Czwartacki said. Czwartacki also said the president was fine with Mulvaneys absence and that the chief of staff had a team in place empowered to operate without him. Indeed, in a quiet sign of his influence, Mulvaney has brought on a half-dozen new staffers, including communications aides. Panetta, however, said it was very unusual that Mulvaney hadnt played a more prominent role in this years budget talks, saying he should have been the primary person trying to guide negotiations. David B. Cohen, a political science professor at the University of Akron who is also writing a book on the chief of staff role, echoed that perception, saying previous chiefs, especially those with experience like Mulvaneys, were essentially handed the keys and told, Get this done. Mulvaney is good at television, hes good at communication. But I think at this point, hes little more than an administrative assistant for Trump, Cohen said. The White House pushed back on the idea that Mulvaney should have been charged with steering the border wall talks, saying it made sense for Vice-President Mike Pence and the White House legislative affairs director to take the lead. Mulvaney appears happy to be promoting Trumps agenda, even when the presidents policies stand in conflict with ideas that Mulvaney has long championed. In the months before he signed the emergency declaration, Trump argued to his staff that the situation at the border was a national security crisis and demanded to know why he, as president, couldnt stop what he deemed an invasion. Other aides told Trump there was nothing he could do. But Mulvaney, a longtime fiscal hawk who had blasted former President Barack Obama for using executive action to dictate immigration policy, went back to his colleagues at the Office of Management and Budget and asked them to start identifying various sources of money the White House might be able to access without Congress approval to start building the wall. ___ Associated Press writer Catherine Lucey contributed to this report. The only difference between the Friday massacre of Muslims at two mosques in Christchurch and the 2017 massacre of Muslims in a Quebec City mosque is one of scale. In New Zealand, 49 killed and at least 48 injured. In Canada, six killed and 19 injured. The Islamophobia at work is the same. The hatred is also not much different than the anti-Semitic animus of the gunman who murdered 11 people and wounded six at a synagogue in Pittsburgh last year. Islamophobia and anti-Semitism can be two sides of the same coin. Jews used to be routinely accused of being incapable of integration in the Christian West. Now Muslims are. Jews have too much influence they control the world. Muslims, too, are taking over sharia is coming. Tropes are never exactly the same. But they are similar enough for us to pay heed. We must curb hatred against all groups to keep our collective civic equilibrium. In the post-9/11 world, theres the added and exaggerated fear of terrorism. Not terrorism by some Muslims, but Islamic terrorism. Trillions are spent on wars abroad and elaborate security apparatuses at home. More North Americans die by slipping in bathtubs than at the hands of Muslim terrorists, as Barack Obama used to remind his White House staff. Yet we continue this massive diversion of resources away from urgent needs to fix the societal breakdown caused by globalization, automation and inequality a breeding ground for populist demagogues. Read more: Vigils held in GTA for victims of shootings at New Zealand mosques Christchurch terrorist unlikely a lone actor, say former CSIS analysts Quebec City mosque shooter feels very bad about New Zealand massacre, says his lawyer Wars waged on battlefields in faraway lands necessitated propaganda wars in the West to keep public opinion onside. Demonization of Muslims there soon deteriorated into cultural warfare on Muslims across the West. Anti-Muslim bigotry slowly entered the mainstream. Right-wing parties traded their anti-Semitism for Islamophobia. In Europe, euphemistic attacks on Islam and Muslims couched in anti-immigrant, anti-multiculturalism rhetoric became more daring and direct. In the United States, the Republican party followed suit, gliding effortlessly from its anti-Black, anti-Latino racism into demonizing Muslims and Islam. Donald Trump was only its most brazen, shameless incarnation. Canada has not been immune. If more than half of American states took legislative and administrative steps against sharia, Ontario had its own sharia hysteria in 2004-05. If peddling Islamophobia was a business model for Fox News and right-wing tabloids, some versions of it cropped up in Canada as well. In 2007-08, Quebec had the reasonable accommodation crisis totally irrational, in the words of the Bouchard-Taylor Commission. By 2013, a poll showed a third of Canadians thought that Muslims a besieged, beleaguered community had too much power. And, sure enough, 32 per cent of Quebecers also thought that Jews had too much influence. Then came the Parti Quebecois governments Charter of Quebec Values, aimed mostly at Muslims. But what Pauline Marois was proposing for Quebec, Stephen Harper was already doing across Canada. He was mining, indeed fanning, anti-Muslim prejudice. He was cleverly but not so cleverly doing so in the name of fighting Islamic terrorism targeting the niqab as well as barbaric cultural practices, a.k.a Muslim customs, and keeping the (Muslim, potentially terrorist) Syrian refugees at bay. We comforted ourselves that Canadians turfed out both Marois and Harper and that Sun News Network went under. However, one of the chief architects of Harpers policy on Muslims, Jason Kenney, has since emerged as leader of the United Conservative Party in Alberta. Another cabinet colleague from those days, Maxime Bernier, has spun off his own federal party to be freer to attack extreme multiculturalism, whatever that is. Along the way were the multiple murders in the Quebec City mosque. Alexandre Bissonnette, recently sentenced to 40 years in prison, has been a fan of Trump and also of Marine Le Pen, leader of Frances extreme right, who had brought her anti-Muslim message to Quebec in the months before the murderous spree. Anders Breivik, who killed 77 people in Norway in 2011, thought that Christianity was under siege by Muslims in Europe and that European governments were enablers of multicultural concessions to Muslims. Brenton Tarrant, now charged in Christchurch, is another right-wing, anti-immigrant, anti-Muslim white male. Such people used to be depicted as psychotic lone wolves. Which is true. But they have an ideology, just as Muslim terrorists have an ideology. They are no more representative of Christians and Christianity than Muslim terrorists are of Muslims and Islam. The distinction goes to the heart of how we tackle the various forms of terrorism and how we talk about it indeed how we conduct policy, at home and abroad. The initial reaction of world leaders to the New Zealand tragedy was instructive. Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer, like President Trump, could not bring himself to use the word Muslim in offering condolences. Only under a public backlash could he bring himself to say some right words. Even the Queen, offering sympathy for the families and friends of those who have lost their lives and paying tribute to the emergency services and volunteers who are providing support to those who have been injured had no direct words of comfort for the Kiwi Muslims or Muslims the world over. Only Justin Trudeau was on point: We join New Zealanders and Muslim communities around the world in grieving. And: Far too often, Muslims suffer unimaginable loss and pain in the places where they should feel safest To move forward as a world we must all confront Islamophobia and work to create a world in which all people no matter their faith, where they live, or where they were born can feel safe and secure. Islamophobia is by no means the only problem in this post-truth age of populist demagoguery. For bigots and racists and misogynists and nativists and xenophobes and anti-Semites, the list of enemies is long. But Muslims and Islam are among their main targets. We need to rediscover our sense of the common good, the old Canadian consensus of drawing red lines against all hate-mongers. Thats what the world expects of Canada and Canadians, still. A former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode has criticised the whole world for giving so much attention to the New Zealand Mosque killing than they give to killings in Nigeria. The former aviation minister notes that the daily act of terrorism and genocide in Central Nigeria alone, exceeds that of attacks on Muslim communities across the entire Western world, yet no one ever gives it a thought. He lamented the silence of the world on terror attacks in Nigeria, where many innocent people are killed or displaced, yet quickly give all their attention when it happens in the West. Speaking via his Twitter handle on Saturday, Fani-Kayode wrote: There were more attacks on Christians in Southern Kaduna today with many innocent people killed and their homes burnt. The daily casualties across central Nigeria exceeds that of attacks on Muslim communities across the entire Western world -yet the New Zealand shootings seem to have garnered more attention and concern in one day than the genocide in central Nigeria has been able to do in many years. Why is this so? Are we not human beings too? Terrorism, genocide, mass murder and ethnic cleansing are daily occurrences in Nigeria yet the world remains silent. By now, some enterprising pundit should have landed a contract to produce a book on the ongoing SNC-Lavalin affair, the Canadian politics version of Breaking Bad. Somewhere, so melodramatic has it all been, a rock opera might even be in the works, the soundtrack opening, perhaps, with Follow the Yellow Brick Road, switching as things take a darker turn to the anguished thunderings of Meat Loaf, a few suitably ominous bars for the appearance of the Clerk of the Privy Council (he who does not wear a wire), and something Wagnerian for the crescendo. If nothing that flamboyant, the governments performance will surely turn out to be a case study in business schools and political science circles about how not to handle a crisis. There are a few iron laws that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his Liberal government have transgressed, lessons that might have been taken from study of former PM Brian Mulroney and the former NDP government of Bob Rae in Ontario. Mulroney could have told Trudeau two things. The first would have been to dance with the one that brung ya. Which is to say he should never have forgotten the touchstones of womens place in politics, Indigenous reconciliation and transparency in government that were central to his victory in the first place. The second would have been to stay in touch with cabinet and caucus members through phone calls, notes and such, the better to not be caught unawares by grievances grown into crises. Its astonishing that a PM so trumpeted for emotional intelligence has demonstrated so little of it throughout this ongoing tragicomedy. There are other axioms that first ministers should never fail to heed. One is that the most unforgiving metric in politics is the gap between promise and performance. As Rae learned the hard way in Ontario, when youre on record as promising the easy utopia of a new and improved politics your performance will be guaranteed to fall short. When that happens, as it surely will, those who will make a leader pay most dearly for his or her failings will not be the opposition, but the true believers. In the 1990s in Ontario, it was New Democrats such as Mel Swart and Peter Kormos who did Rae more damage than outsiders. Just as for Trudeau, it has been cabinet ministers who assumed the sunny ways of electoral reform, of reconciliation, of openness and an end to the top-downism of the Harper years meant something tangible. Once things blow up, shrewd crisis managers say, the goal is to imagine where the problem is going and get out ahead of it the way Johnson & Johnson famously did after the Tylenol contamination in 1982. Instead, the Trudeau Liberals have responded to their challenge pretty much the way Facebook did when it became apparent that foreign bad actors had used the platform to interfere in the 2016 American election. Facebook first denied the existence of the malfeasance, then denied any responsibility for it. In his new book Zucked, former Facebook adviser Roger McNamee writes that: They could have said: Now we get it! We screwed up! We will do everything possible to fix the problems and restore trust. Like Facebook, the Trudeau Liberals came late to every acknowledgment and save for the stellar performance before Parliaments justice committee by the prime ministers former principal secretary, Gerry Butts have rung thin and dissonant at virtually every turn. In this, they ignored another iron law: that all politics, all story, is emotion-based. Its a fair bet that most Canadians are still unclear on the details of SNC-Lavalin. But they are engaged. And they are clear on their feelings of disappointment, betrayal, anger. Yet when the PM finally did speak on the issue, he failed to match tone to task, tried instead, to resolve emotional matters with circumlocutions about process. It was a recipe for failure, and the old drama teacher should surely have known it. He failed to make his abstractions tangible. As Lisa Cron wrote in her book Wired for Story, Make us feel and, believe me, well know whos right and whos probably not. Tell us what to feel, on the other hand, and what well feel is bullied. Which is, in some ways, the heart of the PMs failing. He was elected in 2015 precisely on feelings of optimism, of hope for a better way and fairer and more progressive day, of cynicism fatigue, of a recognition that the marginalized needed to be heard. His unexpected coming to power reflected the optimism of a nation made to feel that better was always possible. And now, the scandal that threatens his government will endure a bit longer as a result of the Liberal justice committees decision the PMs assurances about lessons learned notwithstanding not to ask former minister Jody Wilson-Raybould to return for a second round of testimony. It will give federal Liberals no comfort to recall that the first book about the Bob Rae government was written by two New Democrats. It was called Giving Away a Miracle: Lost Dreams, Broken Promises and the Ontario NDP. There are few new stories in politics. Merely new players. Correction March 18, 2019: This editorial was edited from a previous version that misspelled Jody Wilson-Rayboulds name. Read more about: Danforth shooting target of criticism, March 9 I would like to respond to this article with my complete support of Dr. Najma Ahmed of St. Michaels Hospital. It is incumbent upon those who witness first hand the devastation of gun violence to speak up and advocate for stricter gun laws. I would suggest that perhaps if Rod Giltaca or any member of the Canadian Coalition for Firearm Rights were to be observe emergency surgery for a victim of gun violence, or, better still, have to be the person to tell family members of the passing of a loved one due to same, that he may rethink things. One persons rights end where anothers begin and we all have a right to safe, regulated societies. Have we learned nothing from what is going on south of the border? To suggest that Dr. Ahmed stay in her lane is both short-sighted and insulting. It is my hope that this doctor will be applauded for advocating for her patients and a more peaceful society at large in a time where violence of all types is rampant. Province clamps down on cellphones in school, March 13 Banning cellphones in classrooms is a welcome decision. Our 17-year-old was constantly texting us, and I am sure her friends as well, during class time. Mostly trivial stuff. We would refuse to reply. She often missed important instructions because of her lack of attention. I will spare you the details of what happened when her phone was temporarily taken away from her, other than to say we were treated like the worst parents in the world, as if a cellphone had somehow become a major requirement for ones survival. During a parent interview, I asked a teacher to take her phone away during class. I was informed she was not allowed, something that was disputed in Kristin Rushowys article. This was confirmed by the vice-principal who, during our conversation, took a personal call on her cellphone. She added that parents wanted to be able to contact their kids in case of emergencies. Whatever happened to calling the office when there is an emergency? I left teaching 17 years ago, a time when the odd teen carried a cellphone. The school policy then was that a student using his/her cell in class would lose it for the day. Since then, we seem to have created a generation of cellphone addicts and this addiction is not only a distraction in class, it causes sleep deprivation among teens, to say nothing about the bullying that occurs using social media on cellphones. It has also proven fatal on the road for both drivers and pedestrians. I will admit to owning one which I keep tucked away in my purse for emergency. Diane Randall, Toronto Read more about: Richmond Hill mayor shakes things up, March 16 Count me as one of those confused citizens of Richmond Hill. Mayor Dave Barrow calls us urban what is that really about? Tell the mayor to stop speaking in code and tell us what he is really up to. The linear park plan sounds like an answer to give the town parks, rather than no more parks at all. Explain the role of the developers, who they are, the interplay and their influence or leverage. We have some open land here, be wise with it. The future is a long time going forward to live with mistakes. I am suspicious of this councils intentions. Will it overdo big development? Last fall, before the election, one of the councillors stood on our porch for an hour, got himself wound up and talked ambitiously about some quite high building that he evidently wanted in the area by Bernard Ave., near where Loblaws is on Yonge. Then he told us of his connections with big finance and big names in England. I thought to myself, what is this guy really trying to accomplish for the good of this town? He talked of the need to keep up with other communities around Toronto. This council needs watching. We must define who and what they represent, and why. Above all, are they competent? What are the alliances about? Who is benefitting? Is it what the people want? As for renaming the town to a city, I am quite happy to live in a town. It makes me feel like I live in a better, friendlier, warmer place, not some over-populated centre trying to compete with other places. Richmond Hill has been pretty good up to now as a home. Still, I realize there are forces at work that need to be made open and clear. A more in-depth, incisive article is necessary. Norm Ferguson, Richmond Hill Read more about: On a sunny afternoon two years ago, as panic about the overheated housing market in Canadas big cities was spreading, three key policy-makers hunkered down in Toronto to figure out what to do. Federal Finance Minister Bill Morneau, Toronto Mayor John Tory and then-provincial finance minister Charles Sousa emerged with an acknowledgement that the housing market was indeed in a precarious state. They made a vow: they would try to take some action, but they would certainly not do anything that would make matters worse. Morneau put a finer point on it. Government measures that would bolster the demand for housing were verboten. Thats because government helping out buyers would only drive prices up further, exacerbating the problem. That vow hasnt aged well, and now the federal government is thinking of jumping into the fray with budget measures on Tuesday to help young people to get into the housing market for the first time. On the surface, there shouldnt really be much of a public-policy problem any more. The housing market has cooled significantly in Toronto and Vancouver. Talk of a housing bubble wiping out homeowners wealth has quieted. But to conclude that all is as it should be would be wrong. In its most recent analysis of overheating in major cities across Canada, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC) concluded that there was a high degree of overall vulnerability at the national level, for the 10th quarter in a row. Vancouver, Victoria, Toronto and Hamilton are particularly susceptible. More concerning and this is where the federal budget comes in is affordability. Real estate markets in the big cities may have backed away from the precipice, but prices are stabilizing at high levels. At the same time, the federal government has made it more difficult for homebuyers to qualify for a mortgage. And mortgage rates have risen. At RBC, where economists have been measuring how affordable houses are at a national level and in big cities, its index is at the highest point since 1990. Put another way, homes are at their least-affordable point in almost 30 years. Average homeowners in Canada are putting 54 per cent of their familys income towards carrying a house. In Vancouver, its 87 per cent. In Toronto, 75 per cent. This means that moving to the big cities for a good job is unfathomable for many, unless they commute long distances or find substandard accommodation. Theres a growing concern that urban housing exacerbates income inequality, favouring those who already own homes in the cities to the detriment of newcomers, and to the detriment of companies hoping to hire new talent. The federal Liberals believe the affordability problem is even worse for millennials, and point to recent research from CMHC that shows first-time homebuyers in the millennial age-bracket are stretched to the max. This group also happens to be fertile ground for Liberals looking for votes. Justin Trudeaus victory in 2015 was thanks in part to new, young voters. And polling shows support among that demographic is still strong. But the solutions are tricky, especially given the vow made two years ago to steer clear of bolstering the demand side of the equation. The bubblelike conditions of Toronto and Vancouver are not yet a distant memory, and so policy-makers would want to avoid pushing markets in that direction so soon. And anything that would encourage homebuyers to take on debt is imprudent right now because the countrys dramatically high levels of household debt are probably Canadas number one economic risk. However, pouring more federal money into building more homes bolstering supply is extremely expensive. The federal government has already earmarked $40-billion for housing over the next decade. Adding more, or speeding up its delivery, wouldnt necessarily hit the specific demographics that the Liberals have in mind. So the vow has been quietly revised, internally. Instead of dont touch demand, its now if you boost demand, you also have to boost supply. Some of the ideas have been around for a while: enhancing the ability of first-time homebuyers to use retirement savings for a down payment; or extending the length of time buyers can stretch out their mortgages. Theres a new idea decision-makers are eyeing too: shared equity mortgages. Government would partner with certain first-time homebuyers in taking on a share say 30 per cent of a mortgage. When the time comes to sell the house, government would reap part of the reward, taking profits in proportion to its equity stake. Unless, of course, there is no profit, and instead theres a loss posing a risk to the federal balance sheet. Given the political points to be gained, its a risk the Liberals may well be ready to take. VANCOUVERAs Nuu-chah-nulth artist Tim Paul approached the 23-metre tree, lying on the fern-covered Vancouver Island rainforest floor, he knew it was the one he would carve into B.C.s first pole celebrating Indigenous languages. Hed learn that the Western red cedar he picked a tree blown down in a windstorm decades ago but nourished by the soil was 800 years old. It was still very much alive on the ground, lying there with its roots, the Hesquiaht First Nation member told the Star. In some ways, he mused, its similar to the efforts to keep his peoples ancient language alive. At the time the cedar sprouted from a seed, hundreds of B.C. First Nations were flourishing and trading widely using more than 100 languages. But today, after diseases from Europe wiped out much of the Indigenous population and residential schools banned the use of kids mother tongues, most of those languages are at risk of losing their very last speakers. Paul who peppers his interview with words from his Nuu-chah-nulth language, though he isnt fluent will spend the next seven months carving the log with a team of other First Nations artists in Port Alberni, B.C. It will then be raised outside the language building at the University of Victorias pioneering First Peoples House as the first pole dedicated to the provinces ancient languages. Read more: Indigenous guardian patrols offer eyes on the land across Canada LunarFest connects Asian-Canadians to Indigenous community B.C. teen creates app to help revive fading Indigenous language I always say I survived residential school, Paul said. But the saddest part was that when we came home, my older brother and I then 10 and 11 asked our mom not to speak to us anymore except in English. About a year ago my mom said the saddest thing she ever did was listening to us and stop speaking. But weve got cause to celebrate every day simply because we survived, and this tree was a pure gift from nature to our peoples. Language is something we have to save what we have left. According to Statistics Canada, 270,585 British Columbians identified as Indigenous on the last Census, about 5.9 per cent of the population. The majority live in Vancouver, Surrey and Prince George. Of those, however, just six per cent (17,190 people) know any Indigenous language, and just half that consider it their mother tongue. StatsCan defines mother tongue as the first language learned at home in childhood and still understood by the person. B.C.s most common Indigenous mother tongues are both from the provinces north: Carrier with 1,005 speakers, followed by Gitxsan with 875. The two largest major language groupings, meanwhile, with nearly 2,300 speakers each, are the northern Athapaskan group and southern coastal Salish group. One of the remaining fluent Carrier language speakers is Grand Chief Ed John, the former chief of Tlazten First Nation who co-founded and now leads the B.C. First Nations Summit. In an interview last month, he said hes proud of fighting for language rights in his former role as chairperson of the UNs high-level Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, where he spearheaded a successful push for the UN to declare 2019 the International Year of Indigenous Languages. He told the Star that last years provincial budget invested significantly in language preservation efforts, but he hoped for greater awareness of its importance if B.C. languages are to survive in a new generation. Today, he co-chairs the UNs steering committee on the issue, through its education, social and cultural organization, UNESCO. He described traditional languages as the essence and fabric of Indigenous cultures, adding they remain fundamental to our survival, dignity and well-being. He said he pushed hard for a dedicated year of initiatives for worldwide Indigenous languages the majority of them under some threat to their survival because he hoped it could shine a light on the need to work across borders to save them from extinction. The Language Revitalization Pole is just one of the B.C. initiatives to mark the year. It was commissioned by the First Nations Education Foundation, which is working with individual bands that want help digitizing and accessing existing language resources. Those include films of fluent elders speaking, story-telling, academic studies and dictionaries and phrasebooks with clickable pronunciations. We engage with people doing language work in their own communities to revitalize their own languages, explained Scott Jeary, the foundations executive director. He told the Star he started his company after reading the Truth and Reconciliation Commissions 2015 Calls to Action, which stated urgent action was needed to preserve languages. We support language projects each community finds important, he said. We usually take a technological approach, taking exciting material that have maybe been in the community a long time but didnt reach its members. All you need is a device, and were even providing the tablets to load all the content were curating. The Language Revitalization Pole, he hopes, will serve as a lasting monument to the many positive efforts happening in First Nations across B.C. And its head carver, Dick, said he hopes carvers of other First Nations might approach him to join his team. According to Squamish Nation councillor Khelsilem, who goes by a single traditional name and chairs the bands language and cultural-affairs committee, his community has prioritized spreading the Squamish language because of dire warnings from its few remaining speakers. Our wisest elders talked about how our communities were losing a lot of the things that sustained us for generations talking to each other and respecting each other but the elders said if our language came back, a lot of those ways would come back. Before his council election, Khelsilem founded Kwi Awt Stelmexw, an arts and education non-profit that aims to preserve the Squamish Nations language and culture. And he has helped bring in a successful U.S.-born teaching model, Where Are Your Keys, which prioritizes conversational fluency over learning grammar and vocabulary. He warned against relying too heavily on technology despite the promising uses of a number of smartphone apps, websites and augmented- and virtual-reality creations, for instance because they are best seen as valuable supplements to language immersion and conversational courses, not replacements. But there is definitely a shift in the past decade, Khelsilem said, thats a huge part of the healing journey our people are on. The younger generation has taken up the task in a really powerful way in a lot of First Nations communities, he said. It partly stems from decades of a lack of results; our community has tried so hard to revitalize our language but hasnt created any new fluent speakers. And fluency, he said, is essential to revitalizing a nations language. Vocabulary and grammar are just building blocks. He wants a proficiency test to be developed in Canada so students can gauge their progression and identify what progress looks like. And he urged political leaders to support and strengthen a current federal Indigenous languages bill and table one in B.C. Jeary agreed that technology plays a supplemental role in fluency but noted that since many First Nations people live off-reserve, apps and websites can help them practice and access lessons anywhere. Technology is always going to be a supplement absolutely the way you want to learn any language is full immersion, the former English-as-a-second-language school founder said. But the issue we have in many Indigenous communities is theres no one left to immerse with; in some theres only two speakers left and theyre going to pass away in the next decade. As he prepares for months of carving ahead in Port Alberni, master carver Paul hopes the monument he creates there wont just be a reminder far into the future of todays generation of language-savers. He hopes to inspire and educate people far beyond Vancouver Island, even internationally; thats because massive cruise ships dock near his carving centre, and once its complete UVics students and faculty will see it prominently installed. Paul said hes been especially inspired by the language efforts of the Tsilhqotin National Government in B.C.s Cariboo region. Those efforts have been so successful that, according to StatsCan, between 2006 and 2016 the number of people who could hold a conversation in the Tsilhqotin language increased from just 25 people to 1,130. To honour those efforts and others like them, at the top of Pauls pole design is the sun and a crescent moon. The moon, he explained, is a very, very powerful symbol, especially when its waxing from crescent toward full. Its the vortex of what were wanting to say and do when we put forth language, he said. As it grows, we use its power to reconnect to our inner self and spirit. Theres a lot of young people everywhere going full force now taking the language on. Im making sure I have something I can pass on to make sure we save what we have left for our grandchildren. Read more about: Imo state governor, Rochas Okorocha, has said that Emeka Ihedioha, the governor-elect in state, is only interested in the states treasury just like a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) man. The outgoing governor said this while reacting via a statement to Ihediohas warning about transactions of business with the Imo State government. Okorocha speaking via his chief press secretary, Sam Onwuemeodo, on Friday in Owerri, said Ihedioha must wait till he is sworn in, before he makes such directives. Emeka Ihedioha, who was declared the winner of the governorship election in the state by Prof Francis Ezeonu, does not have the right or locus standi yet, to harass or give directives to financial institutions in the state over their dealings with the state government. The media report quoting Ihedioha to have given such directive is unfortunate and a sign of ugly things to come. Otherwise, Ihedioha should not have been the first, of all the governors-elect in the country, to issue such directive. We are also not surprised at his issuing the directive, because as a PDP man, his interest, first and foremost, will be the treasury of the state, and the policy or the slogan of share the money will soon come back, but he should exercise patience and wait till he is sworn in. He shouldnt be in a hurry. There is a government in place and until May 29, 2019, that government should continue. As American Muslims mourned 49 worshipers killed in attacks on two New Zealand mosques, new ripples of fear echoed through a community that has long felt unease in the United States. "Our houses of worship are no longer safe places," said Wajahat Ali, a prominent Muslim writer. He had heard from friends fretting about how to protect their children at Friday worship, the main day of communal prayer for Muslims. "Will we have to pack and carry? Am I supposed to hold my baby in one hand and have my other hand on a pistol in my belt? This is terrifying." Mosques around the United States began considering what security precautions to take Friday morning, just hours before their communities gathered for the weekly jum'a prayer. Police in cities across the country sent officers to mosques. Christians and Jews arrived at Friday prayers at mosques across the country to pledge to support and protect their neighbors. During Friday afternoon prayers in Richmond Hill, Queens, Bano Ngafook said some members were too afraid to come to the service at Masjid Al Abidin mosque. "It's hideous," she said. "We want peace." Syad Hydarali, a trustee of the mosque, said members in this community, many of whom are Caribbean immigrants, are fearful even of police protection, because of the New York City police department's troubled history of surveilling Muslims. "You pray to God you have some measures in place to mitigate violence, but people are scared, they're heartbroken," he said. In Minneapolis, Abdulrahman Hashi, 60, prepared to preach at Dar Al Hijrah Mosque about the danger of extremist violence even after learning that his stepbrother, Adan Ibrahin Dirie, had been injured in the attack and his stepbrother's son had been killed. "This is a problem of extremism. Some people think the Muslims in their country are part of that, but these are innocent people," he said. Grief would not stop him from leading prayers for his community, which includes many Somali immigrants. "We are still doing our worshiping, and we're not stopping that," he said. "Some risk is there, but it's not stopping people from coming, and we'll continue." In Washington, D.C., there were few open patches of golden-colored carpet at Masjid Muhammad, with more than 300 sock-footed worshipers packed in for prayer, along with city leaders. Staff and members worked hard to create a feeling of calm: a small girl walked around hugging visitors, Girl Scouts sold cookies on the sidewalk and smiling worshipers greeted people enthusiastically at every doorway. At the end of his sermon, however, Imam Talib Shareef addressed the horror in New Zealand. "Make this prayer as if it were your last. For some [in Christchurch], it was their last jum'a," said Sharif, who leads the historic and largely African-American community. "Let's pray for each other." Muslims make up just under 1 percent of the U.S. population, according to the Pew Research Center - about half the number of Jews in the United States, somewhat less than the number of Mormons, and slightly more than the number of Hindus or Buddhists. The Muslim community has worried about its reputation in the United States at least since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, when some Muslim children were taunted as "terrorists" after the violent attacks by Muslim extremists. Over the past three years, since President Trump campaigned on a promise to "ban" some Muslims from entering the country and then enacted a court-challenged travel ban that bars people from some majority-Muslim countries, many have grown increasingly concerned. Ali blamed Trump for shifting the culture, and said it's not just aimed at Muslims - the fatal shooting of 11 worshipers in a Pittsburgh synagogue in October sprang from the same climate of religious hate, he said. "There's a climate of hate that has been nurtured by the president all the way down. We saw it against Jews," he said. "Meanwhile, we have ignored the number one threat - the rise of white extremists. There's a cost to this rhetoric of hate. The cost is 49 people who went to Friday prayer." The Council on American-Islamic Relations, the largest Muslim advocacy group in the United States, decried Friday what it described as an "unprecedented spike in bigotry . . . since the election of Donald Trump as president." CAIR pointed to a manifesto that New Zealand police say was written by the gunman, who also broadcast some of the violence. The manifesto echoed white supremacist views and criticized Muslims and immigrants. CAIR noted that it praised Trump as "a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose." The organization promoted a booklet on safety strategies for mosques. Muslim Advocates, another faith-based organization, asked for concrete measures: a strong disavowal of white nationalism from Trump, action by the FBI to prioritize the threat of white nationalist violence and efforts from companies such as Facebook to prevent hate groups from organizing online. Crimes motivated by bias against a particular religion or ethnicity are notoriously difficult to track. But the FBI's statistics on religiously motivated hate crimes show a sharp rise in recent years. In 2017, the most recent year for which the FBI has published data, Jews were the most frequently targeted, in 938 incidents. The FBI recorded 273 anti-Muslim crimes in 2017, 307 in 2016 and 257 in 2015, the year Trump's campaign for president began. From 2005 through 2014, the decade before Trump's campaign, the FBI reported 160 anti-Muslim crimes or significantly fewer each year. Some Muslims leaders said they have been meeting behind the scenes with government officials to seek more explicit public statements against anti-Muslim violence. One in the Washington, D.C., region said such a meeting was already scheduled for Friday. These Muslim leaders have asked Trump to speak out in the way that President George W. Bush did after the 9/11 attacks and the way President Barack Obama did at a Baltimore-area mosque: explicitly affirming the faith of Islam and the place of Muslims in the American fabric. Oussama Jammal, secretary-general of the U.S. Council of Muslim Organizations, an umbrella group of dozens of national U.S. Muslim groups, said that the FBI convened a group call for Muslim groups to discuss security on Friday, in light of the New Zealand attacks. But in general, Jammal said, Muslim groups have been in touch with the administration far less under Trump than under previous presidents. "We have not spoken to members of his cabinet or anyone connected with them ever since he took over. We don't have any direct communication in order to share, to talk," he said. Mosques are seeking grants to purchase high-tech surveillance equipment, he said. "The question is, do you want to constantly show security as a reminder [to people] of imminent threat?" Saif Rahman, a leader at Falls Church, Virginia's large Dar al-Hijra Mosque, said he worried also about striking the right balance when it comes to security at his mosque, which emailed Friday to say that additional measures would be put in place. "This is a place of worship, and people feel need to feel they're coming to a sanctuary and can come and approach God, not to feel they have to go through a gauntlet of security," he said. "Our security guys wanted to check cars, and I said absolutely not. We want to keep this idea that the mosque is an open place, where people can feel at peace. We don't want them to feel under siege." Authorities in the Midwest declared states of emergency amid what they called "historic" flooding, which forecasters warned would stretch through the weekend. The flooding shut down roads, forced scores of people to evacuate their homes and cut off access to some towns and cities. In Nebraska, which has seen some of the most significant flooding, Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts said the impacts of the "devastating flooding ... could last for quite some time." Even the forecasters were not immune: The National Weather Service in Omaha reported Friday that it had to evacuate its offices because of rising waters. Forecasters said Saturday that at least five states were still facing the flood threat. "Major and historical river flooding will continue this weekend focused across Iowa, southern Minnesota and Wisconsin, eastern Nebraska and southeast South Dakota," the National Weather Service reported. The surging water was fueled by a powerful winter storm - a "bomb cyclone" - that battered the region with strong winds and heavy rainfall. The resulting flooding was particularly intense because the heavy rain fell on snow that had not melted yet, said Brian Barjenbruch, the science and operations officer for the weather service in Omaha. "And the ground was completely frozen," he said in an interview. "It's almost like all of this rain was falling, melting snow and every last drop had to run off." Barjenbruch said the results have been incredibly damaging in parts of eastern Nebraska and western Iowa. "It is some of the worst flooding that we've seen in many years," Barjenbruch said of those areas. "In some locations it's the worst flooding on record on many of these river gauges." More for you Massive storm hits wheat, cattle, mines in US heartland Along with Ricketts, governors in Wisconsin and South Dakota declared emergencies, while Iowa's governor issued a wave of disaster proclamations. South Dakota Republican Gov. Kristi Noem said she signed an emergency declaration to free up more state money for people affected by the storm and the flooding. "The storms this week have been extremely difficult for many of our communities," Noem said in a statement. "This has been a statewide emergency with people impacted by heavy snow, high winds, rain, and freezing rain." In his emergency declaration, Wisconsin Democratic Gov. Tony Evers said the storm had "moved across the entire state of Wisconsin" between Wednesday and Friday. In its wake, he said, water was "rising swiftly." "The warm temperatures and rain the last few days have caused much of the heavy snowpack and ice to melt resulting in flooding, ice jams, and rivers and creeks to rise," Evers said in a statement. In Nebraska, scores of residents rushed into shelters while state troopers fanned out for water rescues, officials said. "Nebraska has experienced historic flooding and extreme weather in nearly every region of the state," Ricketts posted in a statement on Twitter. He issued a disaster declaration on Tuesday. President Donald Trump on Friday afternoon said he had spoken to Ricketts about the situation. "The people of Nebraska & across the Midwest, especially the Farmers & Ranchers, are feeling the impacts from severe weather," he tweeted. The flooding had closed off main routes through parts of the region, said Jennifer Arthur, 44, a bartender at Jack's Place in Omaha. "You go a couple of miles ... you can't make it very far," Arthur said. "You just can't get into town." Arthur said that Jack's had additional customers because the water had closed some other bars and restaurants -- and that the flooding was the main topic of conversation. "There's a lot of people impacted that had to get out real fast," she said. "A lot of people are going to friends' houses, hotels." Officials said the flooding has caused severe damage in some areas, tearing apart pieces of roadways and bridges. "The power of water is really quite impressive," said Barjenbruch. "When that water moves out of the channel it is normally in, it interacts with roads, bridges in ways it doesn't normally. When that happens ... we have roads fail, bridges fail, we've even had dams fail in far northeastern Nebraska." Barjenbruch added: "The power of water should never be underestimated." Forecasters have also warned that, because of significant precipitation during winter and because of what The Post's Capital Weather Gang called "an active spring storm track through the nation's midsection," this flooding in the Midwest may only be the start of a painful flood season. GODFREY Lewis and Clark Community Colleges Criminal Justice program will open its doors for prospective students to learn more about the program and pursue a career in criminal justice. The colleges Criminal Justice Open House and Panel will run from 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, March 20, in Haskell Hall, located on the colleges Godfrey Campus. Prospective students and guests will have the opportunity to tour classroom facilities and learn more about the program, enrollment process and financial aid opportunities. A panel discussion lead by professionals from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Illinois State Police, Madison County Sheriffs Department, Madison County States Attorney and Madison County Juvenile Office will touch on topics related to the profession as well as tips for successful careers in related fields. There will be free refreshments and L&C giveaways for those in attendance. Lewis and Clark is a great place to start your college education in criminal justice, Program Coordinator Jessica Noble said. With small class sizes, affordability and professors that care about your success, you can reach your full potential here. We empower you to do your best and work hard to reach your goals. L&C Criminal Justice majors study police, courts, corrections and the law in society through their coursework, which includes case studies, current news and related discussions on topics like dispute resolution, drugs and crime, child abuse and neglect, gangs, policing, crime theory, private security and more. Graduates of L&Cs Criminal Justice program, which offers an Associate in Applied Science degree(60 credit hours) and a certificate of proficiency, go on to work in local law enforcement and as state correctional officers upon graduation. The program also has a 30 and Out option, which means that students who already hold another degree can complete the AAS in only a year (two semesters, 10 courses, 30 credit hours). For those interested in transferring to a four-year school after L&C, the program also has transfer agreements in place with Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and the University of Missouri St. Louis. The agreements provide a seamless transfer for students between institutions. To learn more about L&Cs Criminal Justice program, visit www.lc.edu/program/criminaljustice or contact Noble at (618) 468-4524 or jbnelson@lc.edu. RENO, Nev. Jordan Aaron was the president of a Carson City sushi restaurant who once ran for justice of the peace in Arizona. Antonio Pastini was the brash ex-Chicago cop who befriended a brothel mogul and spun yarns of a bare-knuckled youth in the Windy City that read like a cross between "Goodfellas" and "The Outsiders." They were one and the same person. He used two names and two Social Security numbers. He kept different driver's licenses and bank accounts under the two names, an ex-wife alleged. The ex-wife one of four said in court filings that he kept multiple identities to hide money, and she hinted that he had "trouble with the law." But he might have lived out his days simply as Tony Pastini, the garrulous retired cop, had his twin-engine Cessna not plummeted 7,800 feet on Feb. 3 into an Orange County, Calif., suburb, killing him and four people who were on the ground. More for you Plane that crashed into California neighborhood piloted by retired police officer, authorities say From the smoldering wreckage, investigators plucked a police badge belonging to Retired Chicago Patrolman #15599. That discovery would help unravel the threads of a life story Pastini spent three decades crafting. The 75-year-old, it turned out, had never been a Chicago cop, though it appeared he wished he had been. "Tony ... loved cops," said Jeff Partyka, a retired Reno police sergeant who frequented a deli Pastini ran in the 1990s. "They didn't just gravitate to his restaurant because of the cop thing. He was always friendly and respectful, and he actually did have pretty decent food." It could take 18 months or more for federal investigators to probe the cause of the fatal crash. They will likely scrutinize the pilot's medical condition and examine the three-day period preceding the crash, looking for fatigue and other "high-stress events," said Peter Knudson, a National Transportation Safety Board spokesman. Only in rare circumstances, such as when suicide is suspected, will the NTSB dig into a pilot's backstory, said Barry Schiff, a longtime pilot and aviation safety consultant. "There are a lot of weird people out there flying airplanes," he said. "It doesn't mean it has anything to do with how they fly." In a report, the NTSB said that, on the afternoon of Feb. 3, an air traffic controller warned Pastini on takeoff from Fullerton Municipal Airport that he was headed into bad weather. If he ignored the warning, it was not the first time he had bucked conventions in the air. On a January morning in 1977, Pastini was flying from Las Vegas to Long Beach when the weather turned icy. Clouds and fog made it difficult to fly by sight alone. Rather than turning back or changing his route, he falsely told air traffic control he was instrument-rated and finished the flight. A judge called his indifference to airspace rules "a potential threat to himself, his passenger and other users of the system" and suspended his license for 120 days. Three years later, his plane was found behind on inspections, carrying an expired temporary registration and leaking fluid from a brake. He lost his license for 30 days. Richard Wittry, the attorney for the Federal Aviation Administration who prosecuted Pastini for the earlier incident, said the offense showed "he had a cavalier attitude toward his responsibility as a pilot in command of his private aircraft." "He told air traffic a vital fact that wasn't true," Wittry, now 84, said in an interview. "He knows he's not instrument-rated. That's bad news. That's an accident bound to happen." For years, Pastini's restaurants were favored by cops. He enjoyed being known as one of them, both for the camaraderie it inspired with Nevada police and the boost it delivered to his businesses, said Marc Picker, his former attorney. He gave discounts to police officers who brought their families to eat. He held fundraisers for cops who'd been mailed letter bombs, shot by stickup men and killed in training accidents. A wall of his Reno deli was covered in police patches. After he died and federal investigators identified him as a former Chicago cop, the Chicago Police Department, the police union and an association of retired officers declared that no one named Antonio Pastini was ever a city police officer. That applied to two other names Pastini also had used, they said. The badge he was carrying when he died had been reported missing in 1978. Pastini's nephew, Gary Willis, insisted that his uncle "truly was a police officer" and that he had had "perfectly legitimate reasons" to change his name. He would not say what those reasons were, beyond suggesting his uncle wanted to start life anew after leaving police work. "When law enforcement officers leave that lifestyle, they want to leave it behind," he said. "They're done with that life. That may be the reason for the change of names." But when Pastini opened a string of delis in Nevada in the early 1990s, he openly touted a law enforcement background. He told the Reno Gazette-Journal he had retired in 1986 at the rank of "detective sergeant" after a 17-year career with the Chicago police. He regaled reporters with a life story of straddling "both sides of the law, as a criminal and as a cop," as the Reno paper wrote in 1997. He recalled a boyhood of battling the neighborhood Germans and running with "a greased little group of thugs." He told reporters he was a Marine who had been stationed in Japan a claim the Marines dispute. As a businessman, Pastini sued a columnist for saying the beef hot dogs he sold were made of pork. He wrote fuming letters to newspapers that dared to publish failed health inspections of his delis. "He was a talker told it like it was," Partyka said. "He didn't give a rat's ass what people thought of him." In the early 1990s, Pastini met Dennis Hof, a businessman who owned legal brothels in Nevada. This was years before Hof found celebrity on an HBO show about his bordellos and before his campaign for a state Assembly seat, which he won last year posthumously. On occasion, Pastini flew women who worked at the Moonlite Bunny Ranch, Hof's brothel near Carson City, as well as the Bunny Ranch's maintenance man, said Zack Hames, Hof's executive assistant. In a video from Hof's 72nd birthday in October, he called Pastini "my pilot." "The greatest guy, love this guy," Hof said. "A Chicago cop." Antonio Peter Pastini was born Jordan Albert Isaacson in the mid-1940s. Born in Illinois, he was drawn to California in his early 20s by "the itch for exploration," said Willis, his nephew. At 22, he suffered a motorcycle accident so bizarre it was reported by the Signal newspaper in Santa Clarita. He staggered onto the porch of an elderly woman, clutching his chest and "gushing" blood. "He spurted out a tale that he had been riding his motorcycle with friends when someone threw a beer can at him," the newspaper reported. By the 1970s, he was running gas stations, tow trucks and a stereo company. He was also piloting small planes. Richard Yorty, his partner in the stereo company, recalled taking weekday jaunts to Las Vegas. "We used to take off about noon, fly out to Vegas and come back round 5 or 6," said Yorty, now 64. Civil petitions for name changes that Pastini filed in Arizona and California courts offer little explanation for why he changed names. When he legally became Jordan "Ike" Aaron in 1981, he told an Arizona court that he already went by the name in California. The following year, he ran for justice of the peace in Bullhead City using that name, the Arizona Republic reported at the time. When he changed it to Antonio Peter Pastini in 2008, he wrote in a petition that he was already using the name professionally. During a 2001 divorce, Pastini's fourth wife alleged that he had driver's licenses and bank accounts under multiple names. In a court filing, his ex-wife included a W-2 form from Pastini's sushi restaurant that showed both Jordan Aaron and Antonio Pastini drawing a wage in 2000 with different Social Security numbers. Jordan Aaron was listed in incorporation records as president, Antonio Pastini as CEO. Pastini could not get a liquor license in his name because he "had some trouble with the law," the ex-wife's attorney said in another filing. A criminal assessment, done when he changed his name in 2008, showed he was arrested but not charged in 1989 for "cheating" in Nevada. The Los Angeles Times requested records of enforcement actions taken against Antonio Pastini, Jordan Aaron and Jordan Isaacson from the Nevada Gaming Control Board, which regulates gambling in the state. The board said it had records for the three names but that they were confidential under Nevada law. The only person who knows the whole story, it seems, climbed into his Cessna 414A at Fullerton Municipal Airport the afternoon of Feb. 3, bound for Minden-Tahoe Airport in Nevada. Five minutes later, Pastini's plane burst through the clouds over Yorba Linda, barreling nose-first toward the ground, according to witnesses. Its tail and left wing were shorn off as the pilot tried to pull the plane out of the dive. A wing that held a fuel tank struck a home where six people had gathered to watch the Super Bowl. Two escaped with serious burns. The other four were killed: Roy Lee Anderson and Dahlia Marlies Leber Anderson, a couple who brought an elderly neighbor his paper every morning and helped with upkeep; and Stacie Norene Leber and Donald Paul Elliott, relatives of the Andersons who were visiting that Sunday afternoon. Willis, Pastini's nephew, said the crash was "simply a tragic accident." His uncle, he said, loved taking flight "like a biker loves the freedom of the road. It was just him and the sky, man." (c)2019 Los Angeles Times Visit the Los Angeles Times at www.latimes.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Morgan County Jacksonville Police ARRESTS, CITATIONS A 13-year-old girl was arrested on a battery charge at 9:53 a.m. Friday after an altercation at a bus stop at North Church Street and West Independence Avenue. BURGLARIES, THEFTS A .22LR pistol was stolen from a home on Ivywood Drive, according to a report filed at 9:44 a.m. Friday. State Police ARRESTS, CITATIONS Dillon R. Valdez, 27, of Charlotte, Michigan, was booked into the Morgan County jail at 10:40 p.m. Thursday on charges of unlawful use of a weapon and possession of a controlled substance. ACCIDENTS A 59-year-old man from Macks Creek, Missouri, was injured when the semi truck he was driving was overturned by strong winds and hit a light pole after leaving the road at 5:02 p.m. Thursday, according to Illinois State Police Lt. J.W. Price. He was taken to HSHS St. Johns Hospital in Springfield with non-life threatening injuries. No other vehicles were involved. Greene County Sheriff ARRESTS, CITATIONS John C. Watson, 30, of Louisiana, Missouri, was booked into the Greene County Jail at 1:15 p.m. Wednesday on a Greene County arrest warrant accusing him of three counts of child abduction. William W. Carey, 28, of Eldred was booked into the Greene County Jail at 4:58 p.m. March 8 on a charge of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. Sarah M. Weber, 31, of Murrayville was booked into the Greene County Jail at 4:58 p.m. March 8 on a battery charge. Carrollton Police ARRESTS, CITATIONS Katie J. Baumgartner, 37, of Carrollton was booked into the Greene County Jail at 4:10 p.m. March 5 on a petition to revoke probation. Greenfield Police ARRESTS, CITATIONS Tiffany N. Taylor, 27, of Roodhouse was booked into the Greene County Jail at 6:15 p.m. March 10 on a charge of driving while license is suspended. White Hall Police ARRESTS, CITATIONS Shane M. Decker, 30, of Hamburg was booked into the Greene County Jail at 12:15 p.m. March 8 on a felony charge of driving while license is suspended and on a Calhoun County warrant accusing him of failing to appear in court. Scott County Sheriff ARRESTS, CITATIONS Matthew P. Richardson, 39, of Springfield was booked into the Greene County Jail at 7:39 p.m. March 8 on a Scott County arrest warrant accusing him of domestic battery and violation of an order of protection. Compiled by David C.L. Bauer, Rosalind Essig and Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree Routt Catholic High School is one of 490 schools nationwide to be recognized for its efforts to encourage female participation in the AP Computer Science program. The school received the College Board AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award for its 2017-18 computer science program, which had a high percentage of female participants. Tracy Ptacek, the teacher for the course, said last school year was the first year Routt offered the beginning computer science course as both a general education class and an advanced placement course. The course is meant to introduce the idea of computer science to people who have never done it before, Ptacek said. The course focuses on beginning code and computer science basics using a curriculum from Code.org. The class covered the internet, binary code, data, an introduction to programming and programming applications. The award is part of a national movement to expand diversity in computer science, Ptacek said. There are not females, not enough racially diverse people in computer science programs, Ptacek said. Since it is about problem solving, you need people of all backgrounds looking at a problem and all the ways it can be solved. Trevor Packer, the College Boards senior vice president of the AP program, said Routt was recognized for its work to include female students in the class. By inviting many more young women to advanced computer science classrooms, Routt Catholic High School has taken a significant step toward preparing all students for the widest range of 21st century opportunities, Packer said. We hope this inspires many other high schools to engage more female students in AP Computer Science and prepare them to drive innovation. The Routt class had 15 students, eight of whom took the exam, Ptacek said. Six of the eight students taking the test were female. Our female population embraced it, they came to trust that they would learn everything they would need to know, Ptacek said. Routt senior Katie Abell took the class last year and said she hadnt thought about computer science prior to the class. It was pretty cool, Abell said. As we went we kept building on our skills. For senior Lily Marshall, the class introduced her to skills she never thought shed have. I didnt know a lot of that stuff, Marshall said. It was a good start. Though neither plans to go into a computer science field, both said the information was something they could use in the future. We all use the internet, so its a good thing to know about, even though Im not majoring in it, Marshall said. Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree can be reached at 217-245-6121, ext. 1233, or on Twitter @JCNews_samantha. Following the collapse of a building at Ita-Faji in Lagos that left scores dead and many injured, Wife of the President of Nigeria, Aisha Buhari has paid a condolence visit to the victims of the disastrous event. Aisha Buhari landed in Lagos on Saturday, she went to the collapsed building site at Ita-Faji before going to some of their wards in the hospital. See pictures below; Touched by the compassion of the nurses who tended to her... Diplomats find themselves in an unenviable position when they are expected to perpetuate a frozen conflict. This is indeed Indias diplomatic challenge today, downstream from the Pulwama attack. No one in the international community has cheered our non-military preemptive action on Balakot, including Indias staunchest supporters. The international community is aghast that the escalation could have led to a nuclear flashpoint. This disconnect between the governments triumphalism and the profound disquiet in the international opinion isolates India, especially among its small SAARC neighbours who feel uneasy about what happened in the region. Being a responsible nuclear weapon state means not only adherence to non-proliferation but also strategic restraint in behaviour. A sense of disapproval appears all over the western media and is captured in the headline of a devastating editorial by The New York Times last weekThis Is Where a Nuclear Exchange Is Most Likely. (Its Not North Korea.) Illustration: Bhaskaran The NYT is an influential opinion maker and it accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of adding to the volatility [by] waging a tough re-election campaign in which he has used anti-Pakistan talk to fuel Hindu nationalism. The Indian diplomacys challenge today is also about coping with Modis Hindu nationalist metanarrative. The world community expects India to settle its differences with Pakistan through dialogue. Delhi is inundated with mediatory offers. The US State Department claimed last week that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo led diplomatic engagement directly, and that played an essential role in de-escalating the tensions between the two sides. Of course, our lame duck government cannot make a U-turn. However, it is about time the foreign policy establishment anticipates the inevitability of engaging Pakistan. But then, Modis election campaign prioritises that tensions with Pakistan must remain in a state of animated suspension till May 22. Yet, the governments grandstanding apart, there are no signs that the shock and awe that it claims to have administered to Pakistan is actually felt so in that country. On the contrary, Pakistan retaliated by attacking India. The mainstream Indian opinion is deeply sceptical about Pakistans willingness to mend its ways. Meanwhile, the Afghan endgame has made Pakistan the indispensable partner for the US, Russia and China alike. A special envoy from Beijing said last week in Islamabad that the two all-weather strategic cooperative partners have always firmly supported each other on issues concerning each others core interests. Clearly, the Wuhan spirit has evaporated into thin air. Suffice to say, India, the victim of terrorism, is coming under the siege of world opinion to engage with Pakistan in dialogue, while Islamabad takes the high ground and speaks the language of peace. Incredibly enough, the NYT editorial underscored that the US could encourage India to modify its approach to those opposing its rule in Kashmir, which involves widespread human rights abuses that simply spawn more militants. The politicisation of national security issues and putting hindutva on steroids has only weakened Indias case that terrorism is its core issue with Pakistan. The government succeeded momentarily to shove under the carpet its appalling incompetence in handling the situation in Jammu and Kashmir through the past five-year period and the massive intelligence failure that caused the Pulwama tragedy. But, can realities be wished away? Under Modis watch, Indias cauterised Kashmir wound is turning gangrenous. editor@theweek.in Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn said, Everything you add to the truth subtracts from the truth. That is what happened to the Balakot strike story wherein the Indian Air Force struck at an academy of assassins, run by a kinsman of the murderous Maulana Masood Azhar. The IAF had claimed, and most of us had willingly believed, that a flight of Mirage fighters had screamed into the Pakistani airspace in the early hours of February 26, rained fire and laser-guided brimstone as the Old Testament God had on the sin-cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, destroyed a Jaish-e-Mohammad camp till their jihadi kingdom come, and that the pilots had come home before breakfast. Illustration: Bhaskaran There never had been any doubt about the IAFs capabilities. Our pilots had perfected precision-strikes on targets when the US Air Force whizz-kids, who did not know a rifle from a ploughshare, were daisy-cutting in the paddies of Vietnam. A score and half decades before the Americans laser-shot missiles into the Chinese mission in Bosnia and into the Al Jazeera office in Kabul, IAF pilots had shot a row of holes through the roof of the governors house in Dhaka. Boy! That was an incredible feat by our first squadron of MiG-21 supersonics in the pre-electronic and pre-laser age! If anyone still had any doubt about Balakot, there was the Pakistani military spokesman admitting that IAF planes had flown into the PAF parlour without an invitation, and that the jets had left a few pieces of ordnance. Wasnt that the cleverest line of understatement that we have heard after the British left? Even that muchthe non-statements from the IAF and the understatements from their Pakistani counterpartswould have carried the day. The rest, we thought, would come later with proof. Poof! Nothing came. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale read out a sombre statement, just like Harry Truman had after hitting Hiroshima, Barack Obama after getting Osama bin Laden, or A.B. Vajpayee after the nuclear test. A pretty presidential sightor prime ministerial, if you pleasewith tricolour on the flanks and in the backdrop. High on visual effect; low on facts. No questions, please. The script changed, and the drama turned a farce, when those in authority clammed up, and blabbermouths took the stage adding to the truth. Neither the defence minister nor the foreign minister, neither the IAF chief nor the western air command chief, neither the government spokesman nor the IAF spokesman came out to tell the world the what, the when, or the how of the Balakot story. A far cry from the long-drawn-out Kargil war or the solitary Atlantique downing, when the foreign minister, the defence minister, the national security adviser, the army chief, the air chief, the western C-in-C, the southwestern C-in-C, plus the military and foreign office spokesmen were briefing the press with maps, facts, figures, and even body counts. Now? A top gun in the defence ministry, on condition of hush-hush, gave a death toll of 200-plus, adduced from the number of cellphones that had been active on the Balakot campus prior to the strike. But party boss Amit Shah took 200 to be too few and added 50, making it more than 250. Then came Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh with another 150 bodies to be buried. A disgusted IAF chief said his job was to kill the enemies and not count bodies. As doubts rose with the death toll, the law minister damned doubters as traitors. Sad! Now it is our word against their word; their sat-photo against our no-photo. Yes, we know that terror took a hit at Balakot. Bravo, IAF! But truth took a hit in India that swears by satyameva jayate. prasannan@theweek.in Vanguard Following the collapse of three-storey building that claimed 20 persons in Lagos, the State Government, yesterday, demolished four buildings and 77 others marked for immediate demolition. Thisday One of the suspects in the April 5, 2018 bank robberies in Offa, Kwara State, Ayoade Akinnibosun, yesterday told a Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin how the police coerced him to implicate Senate President Bukola Saraki. The Sun The Senator representing Rivers South-East District in the National Assembly, Magnus Ngei Abe has called on the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi and his supporters in Rivers State to stop abusing President Muhammadu Buhari over the predicament of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the State. Leadership Another set of five suspects has been arrested by the police in connection with the murder of a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Olatoye Temitope popularly as Sugar. He was killed during the presidential and National Assembly elections in Ibadan, Oyo State. Daily Trust The Federal Government has condemned the terrorist attack on two places of worship in the city of Christchurch in New Zealand. The Nation Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has called on the people of Rivers State to remain calm as the success of the Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP) in the March 9 governorship election would be a sweet victory in the end. Tribune Oyo State governor-elect, Engineer Seyi Makinde, on Friday, attended Jumat service at Ibadan Central Mosque, Ojaba, Ibadan, to express his appreciation to the Islamic clerics and Muslim faithful in Ibadan, where he assured them that he has already started working in preparation for the eventual takeover on May 29, 2019. The director and producers of Bengali film Bhobishyoter Bhoot on Friday hailed the Supreme Court's direction to the West Bengal government to ensure that no obstruction or restraint of any kind is imposed on the screening of the political satire film in the state. Calling it a "victory of democracy", director Anik Dutta told reporters that the support of common people, many eminent personalities from the film industry, artistes and others has made this possible. "Yes the SC has given a direction to bring the film back to screens. We hail the order of the apex court. The SC has ensured the fundamental right of a film maker to show his film to the audiences is safeguarded, " Dutta said. One of the producers said that after the SC order reaches the production house office in Kolkata, the city theatres, where the screening had been stopped from February 16, would be given photocopies of the order soon. An apex court bench comprising justices D Y Chandrachud and Hemant Gupta issued notice to the West Bengal government and others seeking their response before March 25 on a plea by the film producer which alleged that the movie has been taken down from a majority of theatres at the behest of the state authorities. "We specifically direct the Chief Secretary and the Principal Secretary, Department of Home, Government of West Bengal to ensure that no obstruction or restraint of any kind whatsoever is imposed on the viewing of the film or on the film being screened in theatres," the bench said. The top court also directed the chief secretary, principal secretary, Department of Home and the Director General of Police of West Bengal to ensure that adequate arrangements for security are made to facilitate the screening of the film. It also asked them to ensure that the viewers and the audience are not endangered and "there is no danger to the property of the theatres where the film is being or will be screened". The apex court was hearing a plea filed by Indibily Creative Private Limited and others seeking a direction to the West Bengal government and its departments including the Department of Home and the Police Commissioner to refrain from causing any obstruction to the unhindered exhibition of the film. The petition said that that the film has been taken down from a majority of theatres, and out of 48 exhibitors, only two are presently displaying the film. The film was released on February 15.The film was allegedly withdrawn from single-screen theatres and multiplexes a day after its release on February 16. The story of the film revolves around a group of ghosts, including a politician, who assemble at a refugee camp and try to be relevant in the contemporary times. The film has Sabyasachi Chakraborty, Moon Moon Sen, Kaushik Sen and, veterans Barun Chanda and Paran Bandyopadhyay in leading roles. As the world froze at the news of mass shooting at two mosques in Christchurch in New Zealand that led at least 49 people dead, YouTube sensation PewDiePie found himself being dragged into the controversy on Friday. The gunman, 28-year-old Australian, Brenton Tarrant, livestreamed parts of the brutal shooting on Facebook. Moments before he fired the shots, he can be heard saying: Remember lads, subscribe to PewDiePie. Soon after reports emerged, 29-year-old Swede YouTube celebrity PewDiePie, whose real name is Felix Kjellberg, was quick to distance himself from the reference that had put him in the spotlight. Tweeting in support of the victims and their families,he said he was 'sickened' about having his name uttered by the gunman. Just heard news of the devastating reports from New Zealand Christchurch. I feel absolutely sickened having my name uttered by this person. My heart and thoughts go out to the victims, families and everyone affected by this tragedy, he tweeted. Just heard news of the devastating reports from New Zealand Christchurch. I feel absolutely sickened having my name uttered by this person. My heart and thoughts go out to the victims, families and everyone affected by this tragedy. (@pewdiepie) March 15, 2019 Social media, too, remained divided on the subject. Ever since his name popped up in the midst of the gruesome attack, hate has been pouring out on social media. At the same time, sane voices have come in support of the artists, urging people not to blame him for the attack. Who is PewDiePie Felix Kjellberg, alias PewDiePie, in one of YouTube's biggest celebrities and has remained embroiled in a few controversies recently; one of them even having an Indian connect. His YouTube channel (with over 89 million subscribers) which features a mix of comedy and video game commentaries has been the top-ranking channel for a long time, until last year when India's music label and film production company, T-Series, dethroned him. It has since been a constant tight battle between Felix's followers and that of T-series with the former back on top again with marginal difference. In fact, the phrase 'subscribe to PewDiePie' is used as a meme and a rallying cry by the YouTube sensation's fans to garner support for him in the ongoing battle with T-series. Things began to turn ugly when Felix's fans reportedly took to hacking into Google Homes to promote the slogan, and even vandalised a World War -II memorial by spray painting the phrase on it. No stranger to controversies, PewDiePie, has come under fire for some of his videos that featured anti-Semitic and racist imagery. In a development that could be perceived as being a jolt to the Congress-JD(S) alliance in Karnataka, JD(S) general secretary Danish Ali joined the BSP on Saturday. Ali had been considered the 'Delhi face' of the JD(S) for years and was considered close to party patriarch H.D. Deve Gowda. Ali had, in fact, been the face of the JD(S) in Delhi for over 22 years. Ali had played a key role in stitching together the Congress-JD(S) tie-up in the wake of the fractured mandate in the Karnataka assembly polls last May. Ali was also involved in negotiations that resulted in the seat-sharing agreement between the Congress and JD(S) for the Lok Sabha polls in Karnataka. The Congress would contest 20 seats in Karnataka, while the JD(S) will contest from eight seats. Some media reports indicate Ali will contest from Amroha in Uttar Pradesh on a BSP ticket, where the JD(S) has no presence. Ali was also said to be involved in sealing a tie-up between the JD(S) and BSP before the Karnataka elections. The BSP supported the formation of the Congress-JD(S) alliance, but its lone MLA quit as a minister in October. Interestingly JD(S) sources insisted Ali had left the party on "good terms". They claimed Ali left the party as part of a "well-thought-out" plan as he had been keen on contesting in Uttar Pradesh, but could not do so on a Congress or JD(S) ticket. The sources described the exit of Ali as an "understanding" between BSP and JD(S). (With additional inputs from Prathima Nandakumar) The judicial committee supervising elections of the Egyptian Journalists Syndicate Council announced on Friday that the head of the State Information Service Diaa Rashwan had won the position as head of the syndicate. Rashwan won with 2,810 votes; the second-highest scoring candidate, Refaat Rashad of Al-Akhbar Al-Youm, got 1,545 votes. The chairman of the committee said that the total number of journalists who voted was 4,588, and there were 235 invalid ballots. A total of 11 candidates competed for the position of head of the syndicate. The results of the vote for the election of six new members to the 12-man syndicate council have yet to be announced. A total of 52 members competed for the council positions from different national newspapers. "My colleagues, members of the General Assembly, thank you very much for this unprecedented presence in any election," said Rashwan. "This is a very serious stage in the history of the profession." Rashwan is the current head of the State Information Service (SIS), a former syndicate chairman, and former head of Al-Ahram Centre for Political and Strategic Studies. Search Keywords: Short link: The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC of disobeying court order to allow its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar inspect election materials. In a statement on Saturday, the opposition party said that INEC was in the ploy with the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, that won the 2019 presidential election, describing the act as deliberate and wicked. See full statement below The Peoples Democratic Party,PDP informs Nigerians that the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, led by Prof. Yakubu, has refused to obey the March 6, 2019 ruling of the Appeal Court, directing it to allow our party and the peoples candidate, Atiku, access to inspect the documents and materials used in the rigged February 23, 2019 Presidential election. This is a deliberate and wicked ploy by INEC, acting in cahoots with the APC to frustrate the people-backed resolve by Atiku and the PDP to timeously file and mention our petition at the Presidential election Tribunal, and by so doing, ambush the case. It is imperative to inform Nigerians that upon obtaining the lawful order of the Court, directing INEC to forthwith, avail Atiku and the PDP copies of all the documents and other materials used for the Presidential election, our legal team wrote to the INEC Chairman on the 11th and 12th of March 2019 respectively, causing the Order to be served on INEC and requesting access to the said documents and materials. Despite being served with the Order and several follow-ups, the leadership of INEC has refused to grant the PDP and Atiku access to the materials and documents, notwithstanding the urgency of the matter. This action by the leadership of INEC has further exposed that it has been heavily compromised by the Buhari Presidency to rig the February 23, 2019 Presidential election and to frustrate the quest by Nigerians to reclaim the mandate from President Buhari and save the nation from the crisis of an illegitimate government. The leadership of INEC and the APC are seeking to frustrate our court option, seeing that the documents and materials will expressly show that Atiku clearly won the election by the votes directly delivered at the polling units across the country. The leadership of INEC and the APC are seeking to frustrate our court option, seeing that the documents and materials will expressly show that Atiku clearly won the election by the votes directly delivered at the polling units across the country As well as expose how the commission and the Buhari Presidency manipulated the results for President Buhari. The first time Congress president Rahul Gandhi got under Prime Minister Narendra Modis skin was probably in April 2015. Speaking in Parliament, Rahul referred to the Modi dispensation as suit boot ki sarkaar (government for those in suits and boots). With these four words, he sought to paint Modi as a crony capitalist. By corollary, the prime minister was charged with not caring for the farmers, the poor and the marginalised. This is a battle of ideologies. On the one hand, there is hatred and Godse, and on the other, love, Mahatma Gandhi and the history of Gujarat. - Rahul Gandhi, in Gandhinagar, on March 12 A uniform alliance with one face is neither practical nor politically savvy.The BJP will turn it into a presidential kind of election, with Modi being their face. - Abhay Kumar Dubey, political scientist Over the last few years, Rahul has worked on this narrative. His effort has been to chip away at Brand Modi. The initial attack on Modis credentials as a leader who would usher in acchhe din has evolved into an assault on the prime ministers claims of being a decisive leader and an anti-corruption crusader. In September 2017, when Rahul was on the verge of taking over as Congress president, he laid bare the blueprint of his line of attack on Modi. During an interaction with students at the University of California, Berkeley, Rahul emphasised, for the first time, on joblessness in the country. He also highlighted the problems faced by farmers. The speech, made in faraway America, had a resounding impact back home and the BJP fielded its top guns to respond to Rahuls charges. Congress leaders point out that Pappu jokes dried up after Berkeley, and Rahul successfully shifted the political discourse to the perceived failures of the Modi government and his unkept promises. The narrative adopted by Rahul hinges on Modis promises of providing two crore jobs a year and improving farmers income. He also charged Modi with being authoritarian, and destroying the countrys economy with his dictatorial decisions such as demonetisation and the hasty implementation of the Goods and Services Tax. More recently, he launched the attack on Modis anti-corruption credentials by accusing him of manipulating the Rafale deal to favour his friend, Anil Ambani. For close to two years, Rahul has been raising the issue of alleged corruption in the aircraft deal, even when other opposition leaders doubted if the issue would resonate with the public. Nevertheless, he continued his assault relentlessly, even coining the slogan chowkidar chor hai (the watchman is a thief). This was in reference to Modis declaration in the run-up to the 2014 Lok Sabha elections that he would be the nations chowkidar against corruption. Moreover, there has been an attempt to project Rahul as the antithesis of Modi. A leader who cares for the people rather than a few businessmen friends. And Rahul himself has taken the utmost care to present a picture of humility and inclusivity in contrast with the Congresss depiction of Modian arrogant leader, drunk on power. This is the only government and the only prime minister who do not like accountability and refuses to take questions, said K.C. Venugopal, All India Congress Committee general secretary in charge of organisation. Where are the [results of the] promises? Where are the acchhe din promised by Narendra Modiji? This narrative will be pursued for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, despite Modi and the BJP finding a strong talking point in nationalism and issues of national security in the post-Pulwama scenario. This was made clear when the Congress Working Committee, the partys highest decision making body, held a highly symbolic meeting in Gujarat, Modis home turf, on March 12. The CWC meeting was last held in the state in 1961. Focused attack: Congress workers protest the Rafale deal in Delhi. Rahul Gandhi has been raising the alleged corruption in the deal | Aayush Goel The symbolism lay in the Congress conveying the message that it was ready to take the fight to Modis backyard by launching its campaign for the Lok Sabha elections in Gujarat. The symbolism extended to projecting the fight between the Congress and the BJP as a clash of ideologies. Addressing a speech in Gandhinagar after the meeting, Rahul said: This is a battle of ideologies. On the one hand, there is hatred and Godse, and on the other, love, Mahatma Gandhi and the history of Gujarat. The victory will belong to Mahatma Gandhi, love, brotherhood, the Congress party and Gujarat. The Congress has readied its ammunition to take on Modi and the BJP while Rahul has proved that he will not desist from taking on the prime minister directly, pitching himself as Modis prime challenger. A prelude to the big fight was seen in the assembly elections in Gujarat. Rahul led from the front, though he officially took charge as Congress president during the election process in December 2017. He was alive to the need to stitch up alliances with the Patidars, the Thakors and the dalits, all of whom were unhappy with Modi and the BJP government. In that election, his team was a mix of the young and the old, with a veteran like Ashok Gehlot and a young leader like Rajiv Satav. Further validation of Rahuls leadership came from the Congresss victories in the Hindi heartland states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh in the assembly elections in November-December 2018. The victories were a welcome break from the string of defeats since 2014, with the exception of Bihar and Punjab. In what was a do-or-die battle, Rahul addressed 82 rallies in two months, including in the bastions of the incumbent chief ministers. He attacked Modi head-on during the campaign. And he also successfully managed rival factions in the state units and staved off infighting. Throughout this time, Rahul showed an ability to adapt to the changing political circumstances by adopting soft hindutva to blunt the BJPs efforts at polarisation. He embraced and flaunted his Hindu identity, and visiting temples became routine in his campaign runs. As the stage is set for the Lok Sabha polls, Rahul is ready with a template for the attack on Modi, and he will be looking to replicate the successes in assembly polls at the national level. A big challenge before him is forming alliances. Poll tie-ups played an important role in the Congress coming to power in 2004. The party is more or less ready with alliances in states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Maharashtra. However, the complications involved in dealing with regional bigwigs such as Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee, who are not willing to accept primacy of the Congress in the opposition conglomerate, are only too evident. In Uttar Pradesh, the Congress has been kept out of the opposition alliance, which comprises the Samajwadi Party, the BSP and the Rashtriya Lok Dal. This happened primarily because Mayawati is wary of aligning with the Congress. Rahuls response has been, in his own words, to play on the front foot by putting sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh. The hope is that the Priyanka effect would not only pose problems for Modi, whose constituency (Varanasi) is in that region, but also lead to a tacit understanding with the regional parties. Rahulji took the right decision by sending Priyankaji to Uttar Pradesh, said Akhilesh Pratap Singh, a Congress leader from the state. It would have been disastrous for the Congress to be shut out of UP when our mission is to unseat Narendra Modi at the Centre. The Congresss relationship with Mamata Banerjee is complicateda staunch rival in West Bengal and an uneasy ally at the national level. Even in Bihar, where the Congress has been on much friendlier terms with the regional power, Lalu Prasads Rashtriya Janata Dal, seat sharing talks for the mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) have been a prolonged affair, with the regional players indulging in tough bargaining. In Delhi, the local leadership of the Congress has stymied attempts at forging an alliance with the Aam Aadmi Party. Political scientist Abhay Kumar Dubey said that with a uniform alliance at the national level proving to be difficult, Rahul will have to allow the upcoming contest to be state-specific. A uniform alliance with one face is neither practical nor politically savvy, said Dubey. The BJP will turn it into a presidential kind of election, with Modi being their face. It is more prudent to have state-specific alliances that allow regional leaders to play to their strengths. Another challenge is to come up with solutions to the core issues that the party is raising such as joblessness and the agrarian crisis. Congress state governments have announced unemployment doles and implemented farm loan waivers to convey that the Congress has solutions to offer to the issues it has raised. Another major proposal made by the Congress is a minimum income guarantee scheme to every person falling in the economically weaker category. And with an eye on women voters, the party has promised to pass the Womens Reservation Bill, if voted to power. The bill would ensure 33 per cent of the seats for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislatures. The party has also promised 33 per cent reservation for women in the Central government and Central public sector undertakings. Rahul has given directions that in selection of candidates, youth, women and those belonging to weaker sections should be considered. Another guideline set down by him for choosing candidates is that those who have lost elections more than twice should be replaced by new faces. At his insistence, the partys manifesto is being prepared after having crowdsourced ideas through public, countrywide consultations. Energising party workers is another focus area of the Congress president, and among the initiatives to give them a bigger say in the decision-making process is the Shakti mobile application, an interactive forum involving the party high command. After the recent assembly elections, the party workers were asked, through the app, to state their preference for the chief ministers post. The party has also launched a Mera Booth, Mera Gaurav programme, which is aimed at strengthening booth-level management by training and sensitising workers. However, infighting in state units has proved to be a persistent problem for the Congress. Factionalism was kept at bay during the assembly elections, but it is expected to be a major challenge during the Lok Sabha polls, especially when it comes to selection of candidates. While the Lok Sabha elections present Rahul and the Congress with an opportunity to make a comeback after the partys disastrous showing in the 2014 polls, there are challenges to be surmounted, both within and outside the party. As the principal challenger to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi is on an intense and passionate campaign across the country. The Congress presidents energy matches his hectic schedule. Today, I asked 3,000 young girls at Stella Maris College, whether they were confident of getting a job when they graduate. They said, No, we are not. Mr Modi takes Indias most negative aspectsfear, hatred and angerand magnifies them, while Mahatma Gandhi took and magnified our most powerful aspectslove, compassion and non-violence. Uttar Pradesh is a huge opportunity and Priyanka is capable. She will succeed there over time. After spending a day in Gujaratattending prayers at Sabarmati Ashram, holding a meeting of the Congress Working Committee at Sardar Patel National Memorial, and addressing a mega rally, where he shared the dais with his mother, Sonia Gandhi, and sister Priyanka Gandhi VadraRahul flew south to Chennai on March 13. After receiving an exuberant welcome from Congress workers in the city, he began his day with a long and lively interaction with thousands of students who gathered at the prestigious Stella Maris College. He then went to Nagercoil, on the southern tip of the country, to address an election rally. The time spent flying from Chennai to Thiruvananthapuram on a ten-seat aircraft served as lunchbreak. Rahul had roti with chicken curry, biryani, salad and yoghurt. Also on board were former Union minister P. Chidambaram, Congresss Tamil Nadu unit president K.S. Alagiri and Mukul Wasnik, the Congress general secretary in charge of Kerala. Post lunch, Rahul gave THE WEEK his first exclusive interview after kickstarting his campaign for the Lok Sabha elections. He spoke to Chief Associate Editor and Director Riyad Mathew and Resident Editor Sachidananda Murthy on a wide range of issues. His talk, much like the white kurta-pyjama he was wearing, was both sharp and relaxed. He spoke at length about his ideological battle with Modi, issues related to national security and defence purchases, the crises confronting farmers and the youth, Priyankas entry into politics and his startlingly different vision for India. Excerpts from the interview: Q/The elections have been announced and you have travelled across the country. What is the mood of the people? Fire and water: Farmers protest in Delhi in October 2018. Rahul Gandhi says loan waivers will be a temporary measure to help solve the agriculture crisis | PTI A/There is a crisis in the country. [There is] unemployment, and agriculture is in tremendous crisis. That is a distinct feeling I get when I travel around India. Both these issues are interrelated. The jobs question is directly related to agriculture, and agriculture is connected to the economic system. And the jobs issue is also related to how you bring people into the banking system. So that is one flavour that is there. The second big flavour is that Mr Modi generates hate. So his mechanism of politics is hateful. And that has its costs. You cant have a country that is divided, which is full of hate, and get the levels of economic growth that India requires to generate a huge number of jobs. And the final thing is, there is a systematic assault on institutions. You can see that in the Supreme Court, in the RBI, the CBI and in Parliament, where none of the members are allowed to speak. It is a full-scale attack on the institutional framework of the country. All this impacts the mood and confidence of the nation. Q/Regarding the assault on institutions and the BJP government taking control of them, what are the corrective actions the Congress will take if it comes to power? Click and connect: Rahul interacting with students at Stella Maris College in Chennai | PTI A/The heart of the problem is that India is a young country, and our youngsters cant see a future. They cant see how they can pull themselves out of this jobs crisis, and the Indian government has to give them an answer to this. The first step in resolving a crisis is accepting that there is a problem. I am very clear about the fact that when the last UPA government was in power, we were unable to do enough to resolve the jobs crisis. What Mr Modi has done, however, is to aggravate the situation by introducing demonetisation and Gabbar Singh Tax (Goods and Services Tax), and allowing Anil Ambani-style crony capitalism to run rampant. The country is looking for leadership, but what it gets are inane, meaningless slogans from the PM. Make in India, Startup Indiathese are the expressions of a man bankrupt of ideas. Q/The prime minister says 10 crore jobs have been created. A/I dont know what the government is talking about, and neither does the rest of the country. Wherever you go, people say business is down. Ask the youth in rural India and in smaller towns and cities what they do, and the answer you hear most often is, nothing. China creates 50,000 jobs every day. India creates just 450, as per government figures. Today, I asked 3,000 young girls at Stella Maris College, whether they were confident of getting a job when they graduate. They said, No, we are not. I dont know who the PM has been listening to. Perhaps his NSA (national security adviser) Ajit Doval has a plan. Q/Agrarian distress has been increasing and all political parties have come up with schemes. Congress and its partners have focused on loan waivers. But the Centre and the Telangana government have relied on direct cash transfer to small farmers. What is your longterm plan to ensure that farmers and farm workers earn decent incomes? Prime rival: Modis demonetisation move, according to Rahul, was absolute buffoonery | AP A/I believe that agriculture is a strategic asset and the core strength of Indiaa belief that the BJP doesnt share. They made this evident when they announced their direct cash transfer of Rs3.5 a day per farmer, which will do next to nothing in alleviating the financial concerns of farmers. How is it that they (the government) can forego Rs3.5 lakh crore [owed by] the 15 richest people, but cant do the same for farmers? Loan waivers will not solve the problems faced by the Indian farmer. They are a temporary measure. By the way, why do we call these farm loan waivers, and not NPAs (non-performing assets) like we do when it comes to big business? These loan waivers to farmers are confidence builders. But to solve their problems, we need to connect the Indian farmer to technology and the global market. For them to succeed, we need to give them cold chain facilities, food processing units, storage facilities and credit on reasonable terms. What we need is a second Green Revolution that will transform Indian agriculture and make it sustainable and profitable for our farmers. Only the Congress can pull this off. Q/The minimum income guarantee scheme you proposed is being touted as a game-changer. Why do you think it has the power to transform India? Upping the ante: Seen from the perspective of the Lok Sabha elections, Priyanka has a tough role in UP, says Rahul | AP A/I dont think minimum income guarantee alone has the power to transform India. But, under the current circumstances and at the level of pain India is feeling, it is a requirement. It is an idea on an unimaginable scale that we have been working on for a long time now. The idea is that no Indian should live below a certain income level. The Indian government will directly transfer money to those living below that level, so that every citizen in this country has a minimum income. Giving people a sense of security is one component of transformation, but we need to go beyond that. Going beyond it would mean tackling the jobs crisis on a war footing. We have some interesting ideas in our manifesto on entrepreneurship, and on how we will treat small and medium industries and the type of freedom we will give them. To transform India, we also have to free financial institutions from the clutches of crony capitalists. I ask a simple question: There are 12 lakh crore NPAs, but how many people got that money? Why is it that none of these NPAs belong to small entrepreneurs? Why is it that they all belong to the same 15-20 people? I understand that a lot of people who have NPAs are extremely competent businessmen, and they should certainly be treated differently than pure crony-capitalists like Nirav Modi, Anil Ambani, Vijay Mallya and Mehul Choksi. The fundamental problem is the complete capture of Indias financial institutions by crony capitalists, with Mr Modi acting as the mascot of this capture. Q/After the electoral setbacks in 2018, the BJP has been aggressive in addressing concerns of farmers, unorganised labour, military and paramilitary personnel and the salaried classes. Havent they reclaimed the momentum? A/Everything that the BJP has been doing in the last one year, is being done with an eye on the elections. They only wake up to the plight of citizens when they are worried about losing their hold on power. The youth, farmers and small business owners, who have fared disastrously under the BJP over the past five years, have realised this. Their concerns and problems have been ignored and belittled, and they want change. The hypernationalist environment the BJP is trying to create, where anyone who disagrees with the BJP is branded antinational, is only to distract from the issues of unemployment, agrarian crisis, violence and the massive failures of the government on practically every front. Q/You have aggressively campaigned on the Rafale issue, repeatedly saying that the prime minister is corrupt. But the BJP says you have not produced any evidence. A/Mr Modi also said that he is going to fight corruption, and if I remember correctly, his statement was, Mujhe pradhanmantri mat banao, mujhe chowkidaar banao. HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd) has been building aircraft for 70 years. Anil Ambani has never built an aircraft in his life. Under (the UPA) deal, one aircraft cost Rs526 crore; in Mr Modis deal, the same aircraft costs Rs1,600 crore. Anil Ambani opens his company 10 days before he gets the contract. He knows he is going to get the contract and he says so in the French defence ministers office. Anil Ambani is photographed flying [in] a Rafale aircraft. The defence ministry documents say Mr Modi carried out a parallel negotiation and helped secure Anil Ambani Rs30,000 crore worth of offsets. The CBI chief is sacked at 1:30am because he is going to order an investigation. The Supreme Court reinstates him and then he is sacked again. This is pretty open-and-shut. The negotiating team has laid out the places where the prime minister has bypassed the system. They have actually said that if the prime minister doesnt believe in their negotiating ability, he should do the negotiation himself. So, why is there not an investigation into this? And why is the media, including you guys, not raising this? Q/Our magazine did cover. A/Let me tell you something else, the Rafale deal is the tip of an iceberg. Actually what Mr Modi has done is that he has systematically handed over massive amount of defence funds to his friends. And, you will see, this stuff will come out, sooner than later, hopefully. This is not just one deal that we are talking about. There are multiple deals where we suspect that this has happened. But, again, no investigation, no questions. The prime minister sits for one and a half hours in Parliament, gives his speech and doesnt mention Rafale. I asked him four questions on Rafale. He didnt reply to a single one. Q/You met HAL workers. What were their reactions? A/They told me that Mr Anil Ambani and Mr Modi have stolen from HAL. The workers were threatened. They were not allowed to come to my meeting. Those who attended were reprimanded and punished. But they spoke honestly. They spoke the truth. Q/If you come to power, would you reserve national security for public sector alone? A/One need not reserve national security for the public sector. Q/We meant defence production. A/No. There has to be a mix. We are not against private players getting into defence. We are against somebody who has absolutely no experience in defence being given one of the worlds biggest defence contracts. Look, people at (Rafale manufacturer) Dassault said that it was risky for them to give this man this contract, because he has no experience. So, apart from the fact that Anil Ambani has been given a Rs30,000-crore gift, it is also a national security problem, because he has no idea how to build that plane. On the other hand, HAL is a strategic asset, built over many decades into a formidable company with strong R&D and a great talent pool. To deliberately cripple it to the extent that it cant even pay salaries on time, and to take away key production contracts like the Rafale, merely to benefit a private contractor, is unfair. We will fight it. Q/The BJP says voting it out will lead to chaos, economic deceleration and weaknesses in national security. A/The idea that Mr Modi is imposing order on India is ridiculous. I dont understand how demonetisation was imposing order. It was absolute buffoonery. Any economist will tell you that the person who came up with demonetisation does not have a clue as to what that person is talking about. Imposing a five-tier GST on Indiawhat type of order are you talking about? We dont want that order. India is a management of contradictions. Within it, there is order and chaos; there is unity and diversity. Our special strength is our ability to manage this. If you go to the Europeans and say unity and diversity, they would look at you and ask, What are you talking about? They cannot absorb this complexity. Our unique design is that we can. One man, whether Mr Modi or myself, are not going to be able to provide all the answers. These answers lie in the expressions, voice and feelings of the people of India. Our job, as leaders, is to embrace that, and to understand and deal with those feelings. If India is uncomfortable, to tell her there is no reason to be uncomfortable. If [she is] overconfident, to tell her wait a minute, you are being overconfident. Mr Modi takes Indias most negative aspectsfear, hatred and angerand magnifies them, while Mahatma Gandhi took and magnified our most powerful aspectslove, compassion and non-violence. On one side, you have the idea of [Nathuram] Godse; if you dont like something, you put three bullets in its chest. On the other, you have the idea of Gandhiji; even if someone puts three bullets in your chest, you wont hate them. This is the greatness of our country and this is what this election is about. This is not a personal battle. I have no animosity towards the prime minister, but I see him as an expression of Indias weaknessesanger and hatred. There are so many thousands of people in our country who do the opposite, and express the most positive and powerful things of our nation, like the 3,000 women college students I met today. Q/What about the argument that only the Modi government can give a strong response to terrorism? A/Look, I understand that Pakistan will take every opportunity to carry out terrorism in India. But, is it not the responsibility of our government to stop them? Where was the prime minister when those 40 CRPF men died? He was making a video! Look at the insensitivity of the man. He spent three and a half hours after the event making a video! Who is it that masterminded the attack? Masood Azhar. Who released him, escorted him to Kandahar and handed him over to Pakistan? The BJP, because they couldnt face terrorists in Kandahar. Please look at the number of people who died in Jammu and Kashmir between 2004-14 and 2014-19, and how the numbers have increased. The statistics speak for themselves. Q/If it comes to power, what will the Congress do to tackle terrorism? A/We showed, between 2004 and 2014, how to fight terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. When we left the government in 2014, deaths in Kashmir had fallen dramatically. Peace had returned. We did it how? We did it by being strong with Pakistan, by isolating Pakistan internationally, by putting massive amount of pressure on them, by punishing them when they misbehaved. We also did it by securing our own people in Jammu and Kashmirby embracing them, by giving them a vision, by showing them that India cares, by showing them that actually India is a better way forward, by showing them that you can actually get jobs in India, by showing that you can get political decentralisation in India through the panchayati raj system. Q/What contributed to the Congress revival in Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh? You surprised observers by going for seniority over youth. Is this the way forward? A/Our victory in these states was a result of good team work, strong candidates who were hungry to win, and our ability to effectively communicate our vision for change. We performed well in rural areas. It indicated that farmers, who were crippled by debts, falling productivity and low prices, had had enough of the BJP. In urban areas, unemployment was a huge issue that turned people away from the BJP, as were the destruction of small businesses because of policies like demonetisation and a badly executed GST. Women, too, were insecure with the growing attacks against them. All this combined to help us win these states convincingly. We balanced youth with the older generation. Its an evolutionary process. It is not that we are relying only on the older generation, but we are doing things harmoniously. You will see, over time, more younger people becoming visible. In fact, there are already quite a few young, new faces in key positionslike Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, who is a young, dynamic gentleman. Q/What about Priyanka? Why did you give a tough role to your sister? A/It is all about timing! In the short term, Uttar Pradesh, seen from the perspective of the Lok Sabha elections, is certainly a tough role. But, if you are looking at the Vidhan Sabha elections, then it is not as tough a role. You will see that conditions in UP are now developing. The Congress is going to do extremely well in the next assembly elections. UP is a huge opportunity and she is capable. She will succeed there over time. Q/Her strengths? A/She has compassion. And she is honest. And she wants to do something for others, genuinely. She is not too bothered about herself. Q/Will the Congress win majority in the coming elections? A/Majority for the UPA coalition is a certainty. I think the Congress will do much better than expected. But majority for the UPA, for sure. Q/Will you be prime minister if all goes well? A/That is not for me to say. That is for the people of India to say. That is for India to decide. My job right now is to make sure that this ideological fight that is taking place is won by those I call the Unitersthe people who want to see this country together. And I see myself as someone, one of the many people, defending the institutions of this country. And frankly, at the end, defending the Constitution of India. Q/There is no pan-India coalition. A/Broadly, the entire coalition is standing against Mr Modi and the BJP. And we have an understanding with our partners in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Jharkhand, Jammu and Kashmir and Assam. Those alliances are firmed up. There are also opposition forces we may not enter into an alliance with, but with whom we are aligned ideologically and who will work with us to ensure that the BJP does not return to power in Delhi. Our party is a democratic one, and we take all points of view into consideration before taking a decision. Prior to taking a call on the chief ministers of [Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh], we asked all elected representatives and our workers across these states for their inputs. We ultimately made a decision based on the consensus. It is this inclusive, consensus-based decision-making process that we will carry forward. Q/You are friendly with the left in Bengal but strongly oppose them in Kerala. A/Yes, we do work with the left in Bengal, while we oppose them in Kerala. These are unconnected. The local units in each state have an important role to play in determining these alliances. Q/Do you expect the CPI(M) to join a Congress-led government? A/Of course. The entire opposition is standing united against Mr Modi. The BJPs partners, even they are not happy. I wont name them, but we get feelers from their partners regularly. (Eds: Disclaimer: The following press release comes to you under an arrangement with NewsVoir. PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.) New Delhi, Delhi, India(NewsVoir) Working towards its commitment to inspire and equip people to make the world a more creative place, Wacom today launched its 4K Cintiq Pro 24 & 4K Cintiq Pro 32 in the Indian market. Designed diligently to aid creative professionals and set new standards in film and 3D animation, in industry design, digital art, game development and a broad range of human communication and expression, the 4K Cintiq Pro 24 and 32 will offer new high performance large-sized display built for cutting-edge creative and design applications including augmented and virtual reality. Besides the large screen to create and design, the Cintiq Pro 32 & Cintiq Pro 24 help provide a true-to-life visual experience with the brilliant 4K display and up to 98% and 99% RGB color accuracy respectively. 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About Wacom Founded in 1983, Wacom is a global company based in Japan with subsidiaries and affiliate offices around the world to support marketing and distribution in over 150 countries and areas. Wacom is a world leader in pen tablets, interactive pen displays and digital interface technologies that brings people and technology closer together through natural, intuitive interface solutions. For more information, please visit: wacom.com/en-in, store.wacom.co.in. Image 1: From L to R: Geetika Kakar - Specialist Trade Marketing, Pavan G - Regional Sales Manager Karnataka, Rajiv Malik - Senior Director of Wacom India with B. N. Vichar - Dept. Director Technicolor, Sripriyatham - Caricature Artist Image 2: Mr. Rajiv Malik, Senior Director, Wacom India PWR PWR Dhaka, Mar 16 (PTI) Two Bangladeshis have been killed, five others injured and three were missing in New Zealand's worst terror attacks that claimed 49 lives, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam said here on Saturday. Speaking to reporters at an event at the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Bangladesh here, Alam revised the death toll, saying one of the victim identified as 'Mrs Samad' was found alive. In a statement published on the minister's Facebook page, the dead have been identified as Dr Abdus Samad, a professor of Lincoln University in New Zealand, and Hosne Ara Parvin. Bangladesh Honorary Consul in Auckland Shafiqur Rahman Bhuiyan on Friday said that three Bangladeshi nationals had been killed in the attack. They were identified as Dr Samad, his wife and another woman, Hosne Ara Parvin. At least 49 worshippers were killed and 20 others injured in attacks on the Al Noor Mosque in central Christchurch and the Linwood Mosque in the city's outer suburb on Friday. The gunman at one mosque was an Australian-born citizen and has been described as an extremist, right-wing, violent terrorist. "The death toll was based on initial reports from the expatriate community, but it had been revised down to two after one of the victim identified as 'Mrs Samad' was found alive," the state minister was quoted as saying by the bdnews24.com. Samad was born in Mymensingh and a faculty member of Bangladesh Agriculture University. Parvin and her husband Farid Uddin had been living in Christchurch for several decades, the report said. Alam said three Bangladesh nationals were missing since the attack. They have been identified as Mozammel Haque, Zakaria Bhuiyan and Shaon. Five injured, identified as Lipi, Muntasim, Sheikh Hassan Rubel, Shahjada Akhtar and Omar Farooq, have been hospitalised, where the condition of two is said to be critical, the minister said. PTI SMJ AKJ SMJ SMJ Harare, Mar 16 (AFP) At least 31 people have been killed and dozens are missing as tropical cyclone Idai hit eastern parts of Zimbabwe after lashing neighbouring Mozambique, the government said on Saturday. Most of the deaths were in Chimanimani East, Zimbabwe's information ministry announced on Twitter. Two of the victims were students who died after a landslide sent a boulder crashing into their dormitory, collapsing the wall of the dining room and trapping 50 of them, the country's Department of Civil Protection (DCP) said in a statement. The boarding school has been shut and the army, which is leading rescue operations, is moving in to take the nearly 200 students to safety. "So far a total of 71 people are reported missing," said the DCP. Others who had fled their homes were stranded on top of a mountain waiting to be rescued, as strong winds hampered helicopter flights, the ministry said. The storm damaged many houses and washed away bridges in the eastern Manicaland province which borders Mozambique. Thousands of people have been affected by power cuts and flooding, a lawmaker told AFP. Earlier Saturday, Joshua Sacco, an MP in Chimanimani district, told AFP that more than 100 people were missing. Around 100 houses had been swept away in Ngangu township in Chimanimani town, he said. The opposition Movement for Democratic Change called for immediate help for the storm-hit east, warning that a "serious humanitarian crisis" was unfolding there. "We need state intervention on a massive scale to avoid biblical disaster," MDC spokesman Jacob Mafume wrote on Twitter. President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is currently on a visit to Abu Dhabi, has declared a state of disaster in the affected areas. Tropical cyclone Idai battered central Mozambique on Friday killing at least 21 people and cutting off more than half a million people in the port city of Beira. Even before the cyclone made landfall on Friday, heavy rains earlier in the week had already claimed 66 lives and forced 17,000 people from their homes in Mozambique, local officials said. They also affected neighbouring Malawi, where 56 people died, the government said. As the cyclone hit, Mozambique's President Filipe Nyusi appealed for emergency assistance for the victims before leaving for eSwatini. "We have compatriots suffering without hope and we have to restore hope," he said on Friday as he set off on a three-day state visit to the kingdom previously known as Swaziland. As the cyclone approached, the Red Cross sent out more than 200 volunteers to areas most likely to be affected. "The situation is dire but we don't know the exact particulars," said Jamie LeSueur, the Red Cross's roving emergency operations manager for Africa. He was making the 1,200-kilometre trip from Maputo to Beira by road after flights were cancelled and the airport closed. It would require "the full force of the humanitarian community behind the government of Mozambique to respond to rapidly", he told AFP. Beira's international airport was closed after the cyclone made landfall, damaging the air traffic control tower, the navigation systems and the runways. "Some runway lights were damaged, the navigation system is damaged, the control tower antennas and the control tower itself are all damaged," an official at the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) told AFP on Friday. "The runway is full of obstacles and parked aircraft are damaged." The storm also affected power supplies to neighbouring South Africa which imports electricity from Mozambique to supplement its own production. South Africa's power utility company Eskom on Saturday introduced electricity rationing "due to the loss of additional capacity, which includes a reduction in imports from Mozambique," it said in a statement. (AFP) SMJ SMJ Christchurch, Mar 16 (AFP) A right-wing extremist who filmed himself on a shooting rampage that left 49 mosque-goers dead flashed a white power gesture as he appeared in a New Zealand court Saturday charged with murder. Australian-born 28-year-old Brenton Tarrant stood in the dock wearing handcuffs and a white prison smock, as the judge read a single murder charge against him. A raft of further charges are expected. The former fitness instructor and self-professed fascist occasionally turned to look at media present in court during the brief hearing that the public were excluded from for security reasons. Flanked by armed police he made an upside-down "okay" signal, a symbol used by white power groups across the globe. He did not request bail and was taken into custody until his next court appearance which is scheduled for April 5. A short distance from the court, 39 people were being treated in hospital for gunshot wounds and other injuries inflicted in the massacre. The wounded included a two-year-old boy and a four-year-old girl, who was in critical condition. Doctors at Christchurch hospital said they worked through the night in 12 operating theatres to treat the survivors. The attack on the Al Noor and Linwood mosques has been labelled terrorism by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and is thought to be the deadliest attack directed against Muslims in the West in modern times. Outside the court, the son of 71-year-old Afghan victim Daoud Nabi demanded justice for his late father, who believed New Zealand to be a "slice of paradise." "It's outrageous" he said. "It's beyond imagination." Ardern said the victims came from across the Muslim world, with Turkey, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Malaysia among the countries rendering consular assistance. One Saudi citizen and two Jordanians were among the dead, while five Pakistani citizens were missing. Ardern, wearing a black headscarf, met with survivors and victims' families Saturday at a college which has become an information centre for those affected by the tragedy. Sahra Ahmed, a New Zealander of Somali origin, said she was touched by the PM's gesture. "It means a lot. It is a signal to say -- I am with you," she told AFP. The attack has prompted an outpouring of grief and deep shock in this usually peaceful and hospitable country, which prides itself on welcoming refugees fleeing violence or persecution. The last comparable mass shooting in New Zealand was almost three decades ago, and the annual murder rate is usually around 50 people for the entire country. Although shops were shuttered and many decided to stay at home Saturday, bouquets of flowers piled up at a makeshift memorial near the Al Noor mosque, many accompanied with handwritten letters laden with sadness and disbelief. "I am so sorry that you were not safe here. Our hearts are breaking for your loss," read one of the notes marked with a string of x-kisses. Ardern said the shooter was "in possession of a gun licence" obtained in November 2017, and he started legally purchasing the weapons the following month. Two semi-automatic weapons, reportedly AR-15s, two shotguns and a lever-action gun were used in the attacks. Ardern said some of the guns had been modified to make them deadlier. "I can tell you one thing right now -- our gun laws will change," she said. The suspect documented his radicalisation and two years of preparations in a lengthy, meandering and conspiracy filled far-right "manifesto". He live-streamed footage of himself going room-to-room, victim to victim, shooting the wounded from close range as they struggled to crawl away in the main Christchurch mosque. Thirty-six minutes after the police received the first call, Tarrant was in custody. Commissioner Mike Bush hailed the "absolute bravery" of both police and members of the public "who put themselves in harm's way" to apprehend the suspect. "Their intervention may very likely have saved further lives." Some of the officers involved in the operation were rural police officers who Ardern said "put New Zealand first" Two other people remain in custody, although their link to the attack is not clear. One man, 18-year-old Daniel Burrough, has been charged with incitement. Revulsion at the attack, and tributes to the victims, poured in from around the world, including from Pope Francis and Britain's Queen Elizabeth II. US President Donald Trump condemned the "horrible massacre" in which "innocent people have so senselessly died", but denied that the problem of right-wing extremism was widespread. Australian police said they had visited Tarrant's childhood home in the town of Grafton, north of Sydney, and spoken to family members as part of their investigation. The attack has prompted searching questions about whether right-wing extremism has been treated with enough seriousness by Western governments. Ali Soufan, a former high-ranking FBI counter-terrorism agent, warned the West was "in the midst of a surge of right-wing terrorism that has been metastasising in plain sight while generating only a muted response from domestic counter-terrorism authorities." Ardern admitted "the individual charged with murder had not come to the attention of the intelligence community, nor the police, for extremism." "I have asked our agencies this morning to work swiftly on assessing whether there was any activity on social media or otherwise, that should have triggered a response." Ardern said these issues would be addressed at a cabinet meeting on Monday. (AFP) CPS Christchurch, Mar 17 (PTI) Five Indians were among the 50 people killed by a white supremacist, who opened fire on worshippers at two mosques in Christchurch, in the worst attack on Muslims in New Zealand, the Indian High Commission said Sunday. The attacker, identified by authorities as Australia-born Brenton Tarrant, 28, reportedly targeted immigrants during Friday prayers. Witnesses said victims were shot at close range. The high commission confirmed on Sunday that five Indians were killed in the attack. "With a very heavy heart we share the news of loss of precious lives of our 5 nationals in ghastly terror attack in #Christchurch," it tweeted. It identified them as: Maheboob Khokhar; Ramiz Vora; Asif Vora; Ansi Alibava; and Ozair Kadir. On Friday, shortly after the attack, India's High Commissioner in New Zealand Sanjiv Kohli had tweeted that "there are 9 missing persons of indian nationality/origin". But, he added, official confirmation was awaited. The High Commission said its helpline numbers 021803899 & 021850033 will remain available round the clock to assist families of the those affected by the attack. "We deeply mourn loss of all other innocent lives including people of Indian origin." It also said a group of Community leaders is being constituted in Christchurch and their names and numbers will be circulated shortly. Meanwhile, it added, those who need assistance while transiting through Auckland may contact 021531212. In a 74-page manifesto the attacker posted online, he described himself as a white supremacist who was out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has called the attack terrorism. Expressing India's solidarity with the people of New Zealand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said hatred and violence have no place in diverse and democratic societies. About 200,000 Indian and Indian-origin people live in New Zealand. Over 30,000 of them are students, according to the Indian High Commission's data available on its website. PTI ABH ABH Kolkata, Mar 16 (PTI) Following are PTI's top stories from the eastern region at 4.30 pm. STORIES ON THE WIRE: CAL 1 POLL-TMC-DISCONTENT Discontent brewing in TMC over ticket distribution Kolkata: With several TMC leaders making a beeline to the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha elections and a growing dissatisfaction over selection of candidates, discontent seems to be brewing in Mamata Banerjee's party. CAL 2 AS-BJP-MP-RESIGN Assam BJP MP Ram Prasad Sarmah quits party Guwahati: In a jolt to the BJP in Assam, its sitting MP from Tezpur Ram Prasad Sarmah Saturday announced that he quit the saffron fold and alleged neglect of old workers by "new intruders in the party". CES 1 OD-MLA-RESIGN Congress MLA resigns from party in Odisha Bhubaneswar: In a setback for the opposition Congress ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha and Odisha Assembly elections, its Salipur MLA Prakash Behera Saturday resigned from the primary membership of the party. CES 2 OD-POLL-WOMEN Women aspirants lobbying for party tickets in Odisha Bhubaneswar: With ruling BJD president and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik announcing 33 per cent reservation for them in the coming Lok Sabha elections, women aspirants are now making a beeline lobbying hard for party tickets. CES 3 OD-PANDA-NEPHEW Odisha BJP president's nephew joins Biju Janata Dal Bhubaneswar: In a major embarrassment for BJP Odisha unit president Basant Panda, his nephew Harischandra Panda Saturday joined the ruling Biju Janata Dal here in the presence of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. PTI RG RG Vice president Yemi Osinbajo has earned several backlash from a lot of Nigerians, after he said President Muhammadu Buhari, may be poorer now that he was in 2015, when he assumed office as civilian. Many Nigerians including former presidential aide and bestselling author, Reno Omokri have refused to accept such claims saying it was simply impossible for the president to be poorer now. Omokri in his reaction gave many reasons why Buhari, may in fact be richer than he was when he assumed office in 2015 and not poorer. His words: @MBuhari is poorer now than in 2015-@ProfOsinbajo. Yet: * His daughter wedded in a multimillion dollar wedding * His son crashed a multimillion Naira bike * He and his wife now dress in designer * His kids fly BA First Class (I saw with me eye) Stop the lies #BuhariNotPoorer K L Chishi is Congress' candidate for Nagaland LS seat Kohima, Mar 16 (PTI) The Congress Saturday announced that former chief minister K L Chishi would be its candidate for Nagaland's lone Lok Sabha seat. Chishi, who served briefly as chief minister of Nagaland in 1990, had quit the Congress to join the BJP. Chishi contested the 2018 state elections unsuccessfully as BJP candidate from Atoizu A/C under Zunheboto district. Chishi returned to the Congress' fold recently and said, I have rejoined Congress since my heart and spirit could never be separated from the party that has been the true epitome of secularism and upholding the sanctity of the Indian Constitution". The Congress also announced that Alemjongshi Longkumer, a former state bureaucrat, would contest the byelection from the 26-Aonglenden Assembly constituency seat in Nagaland. Announcing the candidates for both the elections, Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee General Secretary G K Zhimomi said that their candidature was approved by the Central Election Committee of the All India Congress Committee. The announcement was made late last night, he said. Zhimomi said that the ticket distribution would be held on Wednesday in Dimapur. The only opposition in the state Assembly Naga Peoples Front - is yet to declare its candidates for the two elections but has informed that party tickets would be distributed along with tickets for Manipur Lok Sabha seats on Tuesday in Kohima. The ruling People's Democratic Alliance has distributed tickets for both the elections to sitting BJP-Nationalist Democratic Progressive Alliance (NDPP) MP Tokheho Yepthomi for the parliamentary seat and Shiraingain Longkumer for the Assembly seat. Independent candidate O Tinujungshi Longkumer, brother of late Imtikumzuk Longkumer, who was the NDPP legislator of Assembly segment, has also declared to contest the bypoll as Independent candidate. Nominations for both the seats will open and conclude on March 18 while the poll will be held on April 11. PTI NBS JM JM New Delhi, Mar 16 (PTI) BRICS, a bloc of five leading nations including India and China, will discuss counter-terror cooperation as one of its priority areas during its annual summit later this year. The External Affairs Ministry said the issue figured at a BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) Sherpa meeting held in Brazilian city of Curitiba between March 14 and 15. Brazil is the current chair of the grouping which represents over 3.6 billion people, or half of the world population and they have a combined nominal GDP of USD 16.6 trillion. "It is worth mentioning that Brazil has identified countering terrorism as one of its priority areas for BRICS under its presidency. Brazil's priorities for its presidency includes inter-alia science, technology, and innovation, digital economy, New Development Bank and BRICS Business Council as well as countering transnational crime and terrorism," the MEA said. The Indian delegation at the meeting was led by T S Tirumurti, Secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs. After the February 14 Pulwama attack, India has mounted a diplomatic offensive to corner Pakistan on the issue of terrorism. "India conveyed its support for the priority areas set out by Brazil, particularly to take forward BRICS cooperation on counter terrorism in a meaningful and concrete manner with BRICS member countries," the MEA said. "India also underlined the need to take forward inter-alia people-to-people cooperation, cooperation in science and technology and innovation, and also in health and traditional medicine," it added. PTI MPB NSD NSD New Delhi, Mar 16 (PTI) A number of members of the US Congress raised with Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale the issue of India signing a deal with Russia for a nuclear submarine last week, official sources said Saturday. Gokhale clarified that India finalised the deal for leasing of a nuclear-powered attack submarine from Russia and it was not an acquisition or a purchase, they said. However, the issue was not raised by the US administration during Gokhale's three-day visit to Washington earlier this week. Some members of the Congress raised the issue as they have some mis-perception about it, the sources said, adding Gokhale also explained to them that the submarine will only have conventional weapons. In January, the US announced sanctions against Russia under which Washington can punish countries and entities engaged in transaction with defence or intelligence establishment of Russia. The sanctions were imposed for Moscow's alleged meddling in the US presidential election in 2016. On March 7, India sealed a USD 3 billion deal with Russia for leasing of a nuclear-powered attack submarine for the Indian Navy for a period of 10 years. In October last year, India inked an agreement with Russia to procure a batch of the missile systems at a cost of Rs 40,000 crore. India went ahead with the deal notwithstanding the US's warnings against it. Under the deal for submarine, Russia will have to deliver an Akula class submarine, to be known as Chakra III, to the Indian Navy by 2025. It will be the third Russian submarine to be leased to the Indian Navy. The first Russian nuclear-powered submarine -- christened INS Chakra -- was taken in 1988 under a three-year lease. A second INS Chakra was taken on lease in 2012 for a period of 10 years. PTI MPB SMN New Delhi, Mar 16 (PTI) India has conveyed to the US that it should not withdraw its troops from Afghanistan without putting in place an elected "political structure" to govern the country, official sources said Saturday. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale met US Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad recently and apprised India's views about drawdown of US troops from Afghanistan, they said. The US has intensified its efforts in the past few months, including holding talks with the Taliban, to end the more than 17-year conflict in Afghanistan. In the meeting with Khalilzad, Gokhale conveyed that India's preference is for having an elected government in Kabul and not an interim arrangement when the US withdraws its forces from the war-ravaged country, the sources said. Khalilzad informed Gokhale about the issues under discussions with the Taliban and that Washington was insisting on an assurance that territory of Afghanistan will not be used for any terror activities. The foreign secretary told the US envoy that it should include terrorist groups that acted against India to which Khalilzad gave an affirmative response. Major powers such as the US, Russia and Iran have been reaching out to the Taliban as part of efforts to push the stalled Afghan peace process. India has been a key stakeholder in the peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan. In a significant move, India had sent two former diplomats in "non official" capacity to a conference on the Afghan peace process in Moscow in November last year which was attended by a high-level Taliban delegation. The conference organised by Russia was attended by representatives of Afghanistan as well as from several other countries, including the US, Pakistan and China. India has been maintaining a policy of not engaging with the Taliban and pressing for an Afghan-owned and Afghan-led peace initiative to bring peace and stability in the war-ravaged country. PTI MPB SMN SMN New Delhi, Mar 16 (PTI) These are the top stories from the northern region at 10.15 pm LUCKNOW DEL24 UP-CM-LD INTERVIEW Lucknow: Asserting that Priyanka Gandhi's entry into politics will make "no difference" to the BJP's prospects in the Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Saturday dubbed it an "internal matter" of that party. DEHRADUN DEL44 UKD-3RDLD RAHUL Dehradun: Congress president Rahul Gandhi hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, saying the PM was posing for cameras at the Corbett National Park for a documentary when CRPF jawans were being killed in Pulwama. SHIMLA DEL19 HP-POL-SECURITY FORCES Shimla: National security can become a major issue in the upcoming general election in Himachal Pradesh, where a good number of voters are either ex-servicemen or currently serving in the security forces. LUCKNOW DEL16 UP-POLLS-ALLIANCE Lucknow: The united colours of the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh will be ready for rollout as soon as Holi gets over, say party leaders who are busy finalising strategy to send out a message of togetherness ahead of the elections beginning next month. JAIPUR DES8 RJ-BENIWAL-PARTY Jaipur: The Rashtriya Loktantrik Party, formed ahead of the 2018 assembly elections in Rajasthan, is planning to contest all Lok Sabha seats in the state. DEHRADUN DES2 POL-UKD-KHANDURI Dehradun: Senior BJP leader Bhuwan Chandra Khanduri's son Manish Khanduri joined the Congress on Saturday at a rally here in the presence of party president Rahul Gandhi. SRINAGAR DES10 JK-FAESAL-PARTY Srinagar: Former IAS officer Shah Faesal will launch his political outfit 'Jammu and Kashmir People's Movement' at a function in Rajbagh area of the city on Sunday. BANIHAL/JAMMU DEL12 JK-LD ACCIDENT Banihal/Jammu: Eleven people, including four women and five children, were killed and four others injured when an SUV skidded off a road and fell into a deep gorge in Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, police said. JK-SPO-LD-SHOT Srinagar: A woman special police officer (SPO) was shot dead by terrorists at her home in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir Saturday, police said LUCKNOW DES15 UP-SP-LD POLL LIST Lucknow: The Samajwadi Party on Saturday decided to field sitting BJP MP from Allahabad Shyama Charan Gupta as its nominee from Banda Lok Sabha seat. CHANDIGARH DES25 PB-KHAIRA-BATHINDA Chandigarh: Punjab legislator and former Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira will contest from Bathinda constituency, which is presently represented by Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal. LUCKNOW DES26 UP-DANISH JOINING Lucknow: Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, senior JD(S) leader Danish Ali joined the BSP on Saturday. JAMMU DES32 JK-EC-OBSERVERS Jammu: The three special observers appointed by the Election Commission Saturday held discussions with top civil and police officers here as part of their exercise to decide when to hold assembly elections in the state. SRINAGAR DES14 JK-MIRWAIZ-NC Srinagar: The National Conference (NC) Saturday asked the Centre not to make it a point of prestige to summon moderate Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq to New Delhi. NEW DELHI DES27 DL-BJP-CEO New Delhi: The BJP's Delhi unit has requested the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) to appoint special observers at mosques to prevent any attempt to influence voters on "religious lines" during the Lok Sabha election. JODHPUR LGD3 RJ-HC-NARI NIKETAN Jodhpur: The Rajasthan High Court has directed the inspection of all women shelter homes in the state by the legal service authority which has to submit a report within 10 days. CHANDIGARH DES29 PB-LOAN-WAIVER Chandigarh: As his government marks the completion of two years in power, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh Saturday said more farm loans would be waived once the state's fiscal situation improves. CHANDIGARH DEL38 PB-KARTARPUR-AMARINDER Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh said Saturday he did not trust Pakistan's intent behind the opening of the Kartarpur corridor, saying their agenda was "nefarious and political" and aimed at "exploiting" the sentiments of the Sikhs. PTI ASH ASH Mathura (UP), Mar 16 (PTI) Spiritual leader Adhokshajanand Deo Tirtha Maharaj on Saturday called for replacing Sri Sri Ravi Shankar from the panel formed by the Supreme Court to mediate the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute. "While I appreciate the gesture of the apex court for finding out an amicable settlement by forming a mediation panel, I urge them to replace Sri Sri Ravi Shankar since he had earlier failed in his mission of a compromise formula. And, therefore, he might not be taken seriously by both the sides," Maharaj told reporters here. The seer clarified that he did not have any grudge against Ravi Shankar. However, he added, since Ravi Shankar's compromise formula was not acceptable to both the groups, an eminent person, who has patience, might bring fruitful result. The Supreme Court had on March 8 referred the decades-old politically-sensitive Ayodhya land dispute case for mediation by a panel headed by former apex court judge F M I Kalifulla for exploring the possibility of an amicable settlement. Spiritual guru and founder of Art of Living foundation Sri Sri Ravishankar and senior advocate Sriram Panchu, a renowned mediator, will be the other two members of the panel of mediators. "Modi should have brought a bill for the construction of a Ram temple because people had given a huge mandate in Uttar Pradesh and at the Centre. The atmosphere was also conducive, but now... the time has passed," the seer said. "Now, the only course left is to get redressal from the top court that would deliver its judgment on the basis of facts and discretion." Referring to the mediation process, the shankaracharya said the top court had tried to retain the harmony between both the groups. He appealed to both the groups to desist from taking extreme positions. Fourteen appeals have been filed in the apex court against a 2010 Allahabad High Court judgment, delivered in four civil suits, that the 2.77-acre land in Ayodhya be partitioned equally among the three parties -- the Sunni Waqf Board, the Nirmohi Akhara and Ram Lalla. On December 6, 1992, the Babri Masjid, constructed at the disputed site in the 16th century, was demolished. PTI CORR HMB Chandigarh, Mar 16 (PTI) With the Amarinder Singh-led government completing its two-year tenure, the opposition SAD Saturday accused the Congress regime of "reneging" on its poll promises made during the 2017 assembly elections. "The Congress government has cheated and betrayed the trust of the people of Punjab by reneging on each and every promise made to farmers, khet mazdoor, youth, dalits, industry and government employees during the last two years," senior SAD leader Bikram Singh Majithia said while addressing media on the occasion of completion of two-year tenure of the Congress government. "The government was characterised by repression, corruption, misgovernance, hypertaxation and non-performance," he alleged. "If there is one thing, the Congress government has delivered upon it is the politicisation of the probe into the Kotkapura and Behbalkalan incidents by first forming the Ranjit Singh Commission and now SIT which is controlled by the Congress party. All serious issues like forming a Lokpal, tabling assets of officers and providing legal aid to SC and BCs have been put on the back-burner," the former Akali minister alleged. Marking completion of two years of the Congress government as 'Vishvasghat Divas' (betrayal day) Saturday, Majithia accused the party of not only "failing" Punjabis, but also causing "untold misery and hardship" to the people by denying them social welfare benefits like Shagun scheme, old age pension, scholarships, mid-day meals. "Never before in the history of the state has any government performed so poorly on all fronts. It seems there is no government in Punjab," he claimed. He charged the government with indulging in a public relations exercise to hide its "utter failure". "The first and foremost failure of the government was its inability to implement the Rs 90,000 crore complete loan waiver promise made by Amarinder. This failure resulted in an increase in farm suicides which crossed the 900 mark," Majithia alleged. The farm sector had suffered the most in the Congress rule with sugarcane farmers not being given their dues, which had accumulated to Rs 900 crore again, he alleged. Stating that an entire generation of youth had been "betrayed" by the Congress government, Majithia said the youth were promised jobs in each household under the 'Ghar Ghar Naukri' scheme. "What they got was fake job melas. Even Rs 2,500 per month unemployment allowance has not been given to anyone. In fact the government has played a cruel joke on youth by registering only 150 unemployed youth," he alleged. The workers of both the Shiromani Akali Dal and the Bharatiya Janata Party organised roadshows and 'dharnas' in all the assembly constituencies of the state Saturday, as per the party release. The demonstrations were held in Amritsar, Bathinda, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Patiala , Mohali and Gurdaspur. PTI CHS KJ KJ KJ KJ \R Chandigarh, Mar 16 (PTI) Punjab legislator and former Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira will contest from Bathinda constituency, which is presently represented by Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal. Khaira, who formed the Punjabi Ekta Party (PEP) after quitting the AAP in January, challenged Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Harsimrat Badal for an open debate to discuss the burning issues of the state. Khaira's candidature was announced on Saturday by former AAP leader and MP Dharamvira Gandhi, who is a member of the Punjab Democratic Alliance. The PDA comprises of the PEP, Bahujan Samaj Party, Lok Insaaf Party, Gandhi-led Punjab Manch, Communist Party of India and the Revolutionary Marxist Party of India. "Both the Badal and Amarinder families are responsible for the current pitiable situation of Punjab, which is under a colossal debt of Rs 2.5 lakh crore," Khaira told reporters. Harsimrat Badal is the wife of SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal. The Bholath MLA trashed the claims of Harsimrat Badal that the SAD had done a lot of development for Bathinda area, saying that they took "huge amounts" of public money as commission. The former leader of Opposition in the Assembly said he hoped that the people of Bathinda would extend support to him to "liberate" the state from the clutches of "corrupt feudal families" of Badals and Amarinder. The PEP chief promised to leave no stone unturned to fight the burning issues of Punjab, such as farmers' suicides, drug menace, unemployment and discrimination against the state's industries by the successive central governments. Meanwhile, Gandhi said he was very sure that Khaira would put up a very strong fight in the Bathinda Lok Sabha seat, especially to expose the "anti-Punjab and anti-Sikh" role of the Badal family. Punjab has 13 parliamentary seats and it will go to polls in a single phase on May 19. PTI CHS HMB Jammu, Mar 16 (PTI) Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday directed police to conduct an investigation into a road accident which left 11 persons, including two women and five children, dead and four others injured in Ramban district, an official spokesperson said. District Development Commissioner, Ramban, Showkat Aijaz Bhat directed police authorities to conduct an inquiry into the accident and submit the investigation report to his office, he said. The spokesperson said Bhat, along with Senior Superintendent of Police Anita Sharma, visited district hospital to inquire about the health condition of the injured. Eleven persons were killed and four others injured when a passenger vehicle on way to Rajgarh from Chanderkote plunged into a deep gorge at Kunda this morning. Advisor to Governor, K K Sharma, expressed grief over the loss of lives in the accident and said necessary instructions have been issued to the district administration for providing best possible medical assistance to the injured. CPI (M) Regional Secretary, Jammu, Sham Prasad Kesar also expressed shock and grief over the accident and said repeated road accidents in Doda, Kistwar, Ramban and Udhampur districts must be a grave concern for the state administration. He demanded ex-gratia relief for the families of the victims and free-of-cost treatment to those injured in the accident. PTI TAS KJ Mumbai, Mar 16 (PTI) The Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission, which had been battling problems of inadequate space and lack of staff, will start working from a new location and in full strength within four months, the state government told the Bombay High Court. The submission was made last week by state Advocate General (AG) Ashutosh Kumbhakoni before a bench of Justices B R Gavai and N J Jamadar. The bench was hearing a writ petition and a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in 2012 and 2013, respectively, drawing the court's attention to the inadequate funds and infrastructure provided by the government for Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission (MSHRC). On a previous hearing on the above pleas, another bench of the high court had observed that despite recording increasing instances of human rights violations and unsolved custodial deaths in the state, the Maharashtra government probably "did not care about the human rights commission", for it did not show any will to extend even basic facilities to the body. The court had directed the state to allot a new office space, appoint new staff members and regularise existing staff of the Commission at the earliest. In the hearing held on March 7, Kumbhakoni told the bench that the state had decided to rent a 5,200 sq ft space in South Mumbai to house the new office premises of the Commission. He told the bench that the state will pay the rent on behalf of the Commission and that the leave and licence agreement, renovation of the place and such formalities will be completed within the next four months, following which the Commission can shift to the new place. The AG also told the court that in compliance with its previous order, appointments to the posts of secretary and superintendent of police of the Commission had already been made. The chairperson of the Commission will be appointed soon, he said. Kumbhakoni said the state was already looking at regularising some existing staff members who have been working on an ad hoc basis for the human rights body for several years. The bench directed the state to complete such regularisation process and fill existing vacancies at the Commission within the next three months. PTI AYA NP SRY Son of president Muhammadu Buhari, Yusuf, has sparked serious reactions on Twitter after photo of him, posing in his National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, uniform and holding a discharge certificate emerged online. The batch A, 2018 corps members passed out of the scheme on Thursday, March 14, with many taking to social media to flaunt their certificate. The son of the president is now being trolled by folks on social media for suddenly passing out of youth service, without anyone having any knowledge of where he served or when he started. They even laughed at the presidents much touted integrity, after his son flaunts an NYSC discharge certificate suddenly. See hilarious reactions Did Yusuf Buhari attended camp? Na wa, so presentation of NYSC certificate is now done inside villa. pic.twitter.com/Mbjhk84zCM Adetutu Balogun (Ezi Ada 1 of Diaspora) (@Tutsy22) March 15, 2019 https://twitter.com/Ody_johnson/status/1106582091284840448?s=19 This is Yusuf Buhari. Who was in camp with him please? Who saw him during clearance? Where was his PPA? iNtEgRiTy pic.twitter.com/fVmEA6N0Vv Callings (@CollinsUma) March 15, 2019 https://twitter.com/TosinOlugbenga/status/1106639939092078592?s=19 Yusuf Buhari has completed his NYSC. what they said Who has seen him during the mandatory 3 weeks camp? Who has ever seen him at his place of primary assignment? Who has ever met him during the monthly clearance? But we keep desecrating the sanctity of the word INTEGRITY pic.twitter.com/t6KL0ma6Ln nafiiu (@nafeezi) March 15, 2019 For those asking questions about Yusuf Buhari and NYSC He was posted to Abuja, He camped in the Villa, He did his PPA in the Villa, He did clearance in the Villa and has now received his certificate in the Villa. Remember; WAEC also did presentation sometime ago in the Villa. pic.twitter.com/bKVdYuaqwI DanEtai (@DanEtai01) March 15, 2019 https://twitter.com/stiFLerMom_/status/1106653745214095360?s=19 Police examining various clues in YSR Cong leader's murder Amaravati, Mar 16 (PTI) Police were probing in addition to the political angle, if a possible business rivalry could have led to the murder of former minister Y S Vivekananda Reddy, as the SIT commenced its investigation to unravel the mystery behind the incident, police sources said Saturday. "There has been a running dispute for the past few months over a mining business in SPS Nellore district. Vivekananda was said to be supporting one side in the dispute. Whether this could have caused the murder is not clear yet, but we are probing it as well," the police officer, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said. Also, a possible rift within the family is another angle on which the probe is focused on, according to police sources. Police have picked up Yerra Gangi Reddy, a follower of Vivekananda,for questioning in relation to the mining dispute. The former ministers household staff, including his driver and cook, were also being questioned for possible clues in the case, police sources said. Meanwhile, the Special Investigation Team (SIT), under the supervision of Additional Director General of Police Amit Garg, has launched a full-scale probe to unravel the mystery behind the incident. While the YSR Congress wanted the CBI to investigate, the state government has constituted a SIT to probe the case. With hardly a month to go for the April 11 Lok Sabha and State Assembly polls, Vivekananda Reddy, younger brother of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister M Y S Rajasekhara Reddy, was found dead at his house in Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh on Friday. Police initially registered a case under Section 174 Cr PC (unnatural death) when Reddy's body was found by his staff early in the morning. After post-mortem in the local government hospital, police confirmed the case was altered to Section 302 IPC that relates to murder. The incident sparked a political slugfest between the opposition YSR Congress and the ruling Telugu Desam Party with both trading allegations holding each other responsible for the killing of the 68-year-old leader. A note purportedly written by Vivekananda alleging that his driver "beat me up badly" has also become a subject of name-calling between the ruling Telugu Desam Party and YSRC. The note has been sent for forensic examination to establish the veracity, police said. While YSRC chief Y S Jaganmohan Reddy, nephew of the slain leader, wanted a CBI inquiry, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu found fault with the slain leader's family for "destroying evidence" and ruled out a probe by the central agency. "This is precisely the reason why we are strongly demanding a CBI inquiry into the case. If the TDP has nothing to hide, why is it shying away from a CBI probe," YSRC senior leader and former minister Dharmana Prasada Rao asked. TDP MP Kanakamedala Ravindra Kumar, however, brushed aside the demand and accused the YSRC of insulting the state polices integrity. "Who wiped out the basic evidence in the case at the scene of offence, and why? This only makes it clear that a conspiracy was behind the heinous crime," Kumar said. PTI DBV BN BN BN New Delhi, Mar 16 (PTI) A 19-year-old man, allegedly involved in three cases of murder, was arrested following a brief shootout in Dwarka area, police said Saturday. The accused, identified as Vikas alias Vicky, a native of Rohtak, had allegedly killed three persons in the last one week in Haryana and is also a member of Sandeep alias Kala Jhatedia gang, which is active in Haryana, they said. Nine cases of murder, attempt to murder and Arms act are registered against him in Haryana and Delhi, police said. The accused, along with his associates, allegedly shot dead his grandfather Ram Pal in his village on March 7, they said. On March 9, he along with his four accomplices allegedly killed a bus driver in a village in Sonepat, and on March 14 he along with his eight accomplices allegedly shot dead a liquor contractor, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka) Anto Alphonse said. On March 14, during night patrolling by a police team at Jharoda Kalan, a motorcycle was signalled to stop, but the motorcycle rider turned and tried to escape, he said. However, in retaliation police fired in air and apprehended them after a brief chase, the officer said. During search, one country-made pistol and five live cartridges were recovered from the possession of the accused. Subsequently, he was arrested and a case under section 25 Arms act was registered, the officer said. During interrogation, the accused disclosed about the three killings he committed in the last one week, he said. He was produced before a local court and was send for a two-day police custody, the DCP said, adding that further investigation in the matter is underway. PTI AMP KJ CHARIHO: Charihos girls and boys soccer teams both won Division II titles in dramatic fashion. The girls won in penalty kicks and the boys in the final two minutes of double overtime. The football team reached the D-III title game, as did the field hockey team. The girls volleyball team played in the D-II semifinals. Erin vonHousen was All-State in girls cross country. STONINGTON: Stoningtons boys soccer team earned its second straight Class M state title, closing the season with 21 straight victories. The field hockey team lost in the Class S title game. WESTERLY: Westerlys girls volleyball team reached the Division III semifinals, losing to eventual champion Scituate. The football team played in the D-II semifinals. The girls soccer team reached the D-III semifinals. Jake Serra and Kaya West were All-State in cross country. WHEELER: Wheeler boys and girls soccer teams qualified for the Class S state tournament. Vote View Results Kingfisher the group behind DIY chains B&Q, Screwfix and Castorama is testing the patience of its investors. Over the last 12 months its shares have tumbled by a third to 2.40 amid growing fears that its One Kingfisher transformation plan will fall short of its promises. Kingfisher is more than halfway through the five-year project, aimed at eventually boosting the bottom line by a hefty 500million per year. Kingfisher shares have tumbled 30 per cent from 3.52 to just 2.40 in the last 12 months The ongoing process involves streamlining buying teams, introducing new ranges and improving the digital offer to cater for a growing number of people shopping for home improvement products online or using click-and-collect. Management repeatedly insists that the plan is on track. But, as sales tumble, not everyone is convinced, with some now pressing for the retail stalwart to take radical action. Activist investors are believed to be circling, issuing renewed calls for Kingfisher to sell off either its Screwfix brand (widely seen as the jewel in Kingfishers crown) or its struggling French business, Castorama. Some shareholders have repeatedly called for Kingfisher to sell off either fast-growing Screwfix or the struggling French business Castorama Whats more, the board is reportedly losing faith in group boss Veronique Laury, who was appointed in 2014 and masterminded the One Kingfisher plan. The DIY lifer and former chief executive of Castorama is at risk of being let go unless her cost-cutting strategy begins to bear fruit. Kingfisher declined to comment on the reports when they emerged earlier this year, but at the time a spokesman said: 'We have a clear strategy to transform the business, have consistently hit the strategic milestones of our plan and laid foundations for further improvements that will become visible to customers this year.' Veronique Laury (above) is the group boss of Kingfisher. She masterminded the turnaround It added: At a time when retailing is undergoing unprecedented change, Kingfisher remains a highly profitable business with a strong balance sheet. The focus of the board, the executive team and everyone in the business remains on the transformation. Broker notes from Stifel and Jefferies have added further fuel to the fire this week, ahead of Kingfisher's scheduled full-year results presentation next Wednesday. Analysts at Stifel questioned Laury's strategy and urged the board to take action. The investment bank downgraded Kingfisher, pointing to bad planning and an out-of-date business model. Jefferies, meanwhile, said its Buy recommendation for Kingfisher was 'comfortably our worst recommendation of the past 15 months'. 'The Buy was premised on the assumption that the disruption from the roll-out of 'One Kingfisher' had passed its peak, and that we were shifting from a period of earnings downgrades to one of sales growth and margin rebuild. We couldnt have been more wrong,' it said. The FTSE-listed company, which is valued at about 5billion at employs more than 64,000 people, admitted its performance was held back last year by some poor execution of the One Kingfisher plan. It suffered from stock availability issues as it changed the ranges across its 1,200-or-so stores. But events outside its control have not made life easy either. In the UK, most major DIY chains including Wickes and Homebase have reported falling sales. Shoppers are said to be spending less amid economic uncertainty A drop in consumer confidence relating to economic uncertainty and the Brexit vote is said to have put the breaks on the housing market and deterred shoppers from making 'big ticket' purchases, like kitchens and bathrooms. Market-leader B&Q has not been immune. In the first half of its financial year, the firm put a 2.5 per cent drop in sales at B&Q in part down to the difficult retail market and fewer people moving home. B&Q's third quarter sales then declined nearly 3 per cent too as these conditions showed no sign of letting up. There was even a concerning slowdown in growth at the groups wonder kid, Screwfix. Kingfisher has also complained of weak footfall at its Castorama chain in France, where half-year profits slumped 31 per cent and weighed heavily on the rest of the group. Third quarter sales here tumbled by nearly 8 per cent. At the time, Laury said there is 'no quick fix' and reasserted her commitment to the plan. 'Transformation on this scale is tough, and we are operating in a difficult retail environment. We face challenges and we are addressing them,' she insisted. Kingfisher's Screwfix brand attracts more trade customers and is known for its digital prowess The firm cant be accused of total inaction. At the end of last year, it decided to shut up shop in three countries Russia, Spain and Portugal so it could focus instead on stemming the decay in the UK and France. The move put more than 5,000 jobs at risk. It changed its price strategy at B&Q cutting the number of promos and deals in return for everyday low prices. And, as part of a wider reshuffle, the former boss of Screwfix, Graham Bell, was installed at the more challenged B&Q. But Kingfisher needs to do more to reassure its shareholders, who will be awaiting next week's results with trepidation. According to Jefferies, the finals 'won't make for pretty reading.' 'Investors may reward a more aggressive approach by the Kingfisher board,' the investment bank said, adding that 'only an extraordinary change in trading fortunes would prevent the need for a rethink'. The City will seek reassurances beyond the group's turnaround targets for the year being met, not to mention signs of improvement in the trickier markets - especially France. And eagle-eyed investors, who currently enjoy a dividend yield of 4.4 per cent, will be watching out for any cuts here too. At the last update, Markets.com analyst Neil Wilson said Laury sounds like a 'broken record'. 'She again reiterated that the transformation plan is working when there is evidence that it's falling short,' he argued. Wilson also added his voice to the chorus calling for a Kingfisher break up. 'We must again question whether the smarter move is to divest the French business and/or Screwfix. With activists circling, the French business could be hived off, as consistently argued in the past,' he said. No doubt the group will come up against fierce criticism again next Wednesday, especially if Laury beats the same old drum. But if the steadfast boss is forced to depart before her vision is seen through to the end, the distraction of recruiting and installing yet another chief executive (as well as a new finance boss to replace outgoing Karen Witts) may risk sending the company into further disarray. Investors could regret turning back and wonder if Laurys was the best path all along. Hedge funds have dialled up their bets against Vodafone shares to a record 1billion after the telecoms giant raised billions of pounds in debt to fund a megadeal in Europe. Speculators swooped on Vodafone's shares last week, with major short positions hitting an all-time high, according to disclosures by the Financial Conduct Authority. At least 2.7 per cent of Vodafone's shares were on loan to short-sellers, meaning bets worth more than 1billion were placed against the stock. Speculation: At least 2.7 per cent of Vodafone's shares were on loan to short-sellers Sources said it was most likely hedge funds were shorting the shares after a major convertible bond launch although there are also fears Vodafone could be forced to cut its dividend, which is one of the biggest in the country. The mobile giant last year inked a 16billion deal with Liberty Global, the American owner of Virgin Media, to buy its European cable assets. To fund the deal, Vodafone two weeks ago raised 3.4billion for the takeover through convertible bonds that will convert into shares from 2021. It is the largest deal of its kind in sterling and is designed to protect Vodafone's credit rating as it takes on Liberty's assets in Germany, Czech Republic, Hungary and Romania. But these convertible bonds have been described as 'a happy meal for hedge funds'. This is because hedge funds can buy the bond and 'short' the shares where they borrow shares from a shareholder, sell them and hope to buy them back for a cheaper price before returning them to the original owner. Hedge funds which began shorting the shares last week were London-based Arrowgrass Capital and New York-based Capstone, which both took out bets worth close to 600million, taking overall positions to more than 1billion. American giant Och-Ziff Capital Management also raised its short position on March 8, but has since dropped it to 0.46 per cent below the 0.5 per cent threshold that forces the FCA to publicly disclose short positions. Shareholders such as Arrowgrass started shorting Sainsbury's when it launched its own convertible bond in 2017. Some City analysts see a dividend cut as inevitable given the pressures on Vodafone's balance sheet and the company's huge debts. RBC Capital said earlier this year that the dividend was 'unsustainable' after the Liberty deal. However, chief executive Nick Read, who took over from the long-serving Vittorio Colao in October last year, has so far committed to holding the dividend, even though it will be paying a 9.2 per cent yield for this year the fourth highest in the FTSE 100. Vodafone chief executive Nick Read has so far committed to holding the dividend Last month, ratings agency Moody's downgraded Vodafone further after considering the impact of its Liberty asset takeover. Moody's also expressed concerns about heavy future investment in upcoming 5G spectrum auctions as Vodafone tries to grab as much of the airwaves as possible. Vodafone's 5G push is part of Read's strategy to revive the company, whose share price is trading at its lowest level since 2009. Vodafone has committed to spending big in 5G, which is expected to revolutionise the way we live, including powering driverless cars and enabling robots to run factories. One of the ways Read could trim Vodafone's giant debt pile which stood at 27billion at the end of September is by selling its masts. In January, Vodafone and O2 signalled that they could offload their CTIL phone masts joint venture, which is thought to be worth more than 2billion. Read may also have to contend with feared American activist investor Elliott, which is reported to have built a stake in the company, although it has yet to comment publicly on it. An executive at the centre of the accounting scandal at German payment giant Wirecard is facing questions about his claim to have attended a British university. Edo Kurniawan in charge of the payment group's accounting in the Asia-Pacific region named the University of Bradford on his LinkedIn profile and said it was for 'professional certified in English'. However, the university said it had 'no record of anyone with that name'. Kurniawan has now deleted his LinkedIn profile. Edo Kurniawan is in charge of the Wirecard's accounting in the Asia-Pacific region It is the latest twist following a series of alleged fraudulent transactions by Wirecard executives in Singapore. The allegations are being investigated by police in Singapore and a law firm. The scandal has dealt a blow to London-based investors such as Jupiter Fund Management, which has a stake in Wirecard worth 560million. Jupiter is being targeted by short-sellers such as Crispin Odey's hedge fund. Court filings in Singapore said Wirecard had 'lost contact' with Kurniawan. Last night the company said he is 'on leave until the end of the external investigation'. It added: 'From our point of view, he has already been exonerated by the internal investigation'. Kurniawan did not respond to requests for comment. President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned the Saturday morning attack in Kaduna state and commiserated with victims and their families, saying no responsible leader can go to bed happy after these frequent attacks. Reacting to the attack this morning, the president, expressed concerns at the spate of blood shedding in the state, questioning the reckless disregard for human lives. I am deeply troubled by the fact that sanctity of life is now treated with such reckless disregard that people derive joy in shedding the blood of others or perceived enemies, he said. He said it was impossible for a responsible leader to go to bed happy, knowing that his citizens are killed one and another. No responsible leader would go to bed happy to see his citizens savagely killing one another on account of ethnic and religious bigotry. Violence cannot be the solution to these persistent conflicts as long as people resort to deliberate provocations, revenge and counter revenge. In a statement via his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Garba Shehe, Buhari restated his administrations commitment to tackle insecurity and protect lives and properties of Nigerians. Brookfield Asset Management, Inc. engages in the management of public and private investment products and services for institutional and retail clients. It operates through the following segments: Asset Management, Real Estate, Renewable Power, Infrastructure, Private Equity, Residential Development, and Corporate Activities. The Asset Management segment includes the management of its listed partnerships, private funds and public securities. The Real Estate segment is comprised of the ownership, operation and development of core office, core retail, LP investments and other properties. The Renewable Power segment encompasses the ownership, operation and development of hydroelectric, wind, solar, storage and other power generating facilities. 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The following companies are subsidiares of Banco Santander: 2 & 3 Triton Limited, A & L CF (Guernsey) Limited (f), A & L CF June (2) Limited, A & L CF June (3) Limited, A & L CF March (5) Limited, A & L CF September (4) Limited, AFB SAM Holdings S.L., ALIL Services Limited (b), AN (123) Limited, ANITCO Limited, Abbey Business Services (India) Private Limited, Abbey Covered Bonds (LM) Limited, Abbey National, Abbey National Beta Investments Limited, Abbey National Business Office Equipment Leasing Limited, Abbey National International Limited, Abbey National Nominees Limited, Abbey National PLP (UK) Limited, Abbey National Property Investments, Abbey National Treasury Services Investments Limited, Abbey National Treasury Services Overseas Holdings, Abbey National UK Investments, Abbey Stockbrokers (Nominees) Limited, Abbey Stockbrokers Limited, Ablasa Participaciones S.L., Administracion de Bancos Latinoamericanos Santander S.L., Aduro S.A., Aevis Europa S.L., Afisa S.A., Albert., Aljardi SGPS Lda., Alliance & Leicester, Alliance & Leicester Cash Solutions Limited, Alliance & Leicester Commercial Bank Limited, Alliance & Leicester Investments (Derivatives) Limited, Alliance & Leicester Investments (No.2) Limited, Alliance & Leicester Investments Limited, Alliance & Leicester Limited, Alliance & Leicester Personal Finance Limited, Altamira Santander Real Estate S.A., Alternative Leasing FIL, Amazonia Trade Limited, Amherst Pierpont, Andaluza de Inversiones S.A., Aquanima Brasil Ltda., Aquanima Chile S.A., Aquanima Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Aquanima S.A., Arcaz - Sociedade Imobiliaria Portuguesa Lda., Argenline S.A. 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Grupo Financiero Santander Mexico, Cater Allen Holdings Limited, Cater Allen International Limited, Cater Allen Limited, Cater Allen Lloyd's Holdings Limited, Cater Allen Syndicate Management Limited, Centro de Capacitacion Santander A.C., Certidesa S.L., Chrysler Capital Auto Funding I LLC, Chrysler Capital Auto Funding II LLC, Chrysler Capital Auto Receivables LLC, Chrysler Capital Master Auto Receivables Funding 2 LLC, Chrysler Capital Master Auto Receivables Funding 4 LLC, Chrysler Capital Master Auto Receivables Funding LLC, Cobranza Amigable S.A.P.I. de C.V., Community Development and Affordable Housing Fund LLC (g), Compagnie Generale de Credit Aux Particuliers - Credipar S.A., Compagnie Pour la Location de Vehicules - CLV, Comunidad Laboral Trabajando Argentina S.A., Comunidad Laboral Trabajando Iberica S.L. Unipersonal en liquidacion (b), Consulteam Consultores de Gestao Lda., Consumer Lending Receivables LLC, Crawfall S.A. (b), Cantabra de Inversiones S.A., Cantabro Catalana de Inversiones S.A., Darep Designated Activity Company, Decarome S.A.P.I. de C.V., Deva Capital Advisory Company S.L., Deva Capital Holding Company S.L., Deva Capital Investment Company S.L., Deva Capital Management Company S.L., Deva Capital Servicer Company S.L., Digital Procurement Holdings N.V., Diners Club Spain S.A., Direccion Estratega S.C., Dirgenfin S.L. en liquidacion (b), Ebury, El Corte Ingles, Elavon Mexico, Electrolyser S.A. de C.V., Entidad de Desarrollo a la Pequena y Micro Empresa Santander Consumo Peru S.A., Erestone S.A.S., Esfera Fidelidade S.A., Evidence Previdencia S.A., Financeira El Corte Ingles Portugal S.F.C. S.A., Financiera El Corte Ingles E.F.C. S.A., Finsantusa S.L. Unipersonal, First National Motor Business Limited, First National Motor Contracts Limited, First National Motor Facilities Limited, First National Motor Finance Limited, First National Motor Leasing Limited, First National Motor plc, First National Tricity Finance Limited, Fondos Santander S.A. Administradora de Fondos de Inversion (en liquidacion) (b), Fortensky Trading Ltd., Fosse Funding (No.1) Limited, Fosse Master Issuer plc, Fosse Trustee (UK) Limited, GTS El Centro Equity Holdings LLC, GTS El Centro Project Holdings LLC, Gamma Sociedade Financeira de Titularizacao de Creditos S.A., Gesban Mexico Servicios Administrativos Globales S.A. de C.V., Gesban Santander Servicios Profesionales Contables Limitada, Gesban Servicios Administrativos Globales S.L., Gesban UK Limited, Gestion de Instalaciones Fotovoltaicas S.L. Unipersonal, Gestion de Inversiones JILT S.A., Gestora de Procesos S.A. en liquidacion (b), Getnet Adquirencia e Servicos para Meios de Pagamento S.A., Global Vosgos S.L. Unipersonal, Grupo Empresarial Santander S.L., Grupo Financiero Santander Mexico S.A. de C.V., Grupo Financiero Santander SAB de CV, Guaranty Car S.A. Unipersonal, HQ Mobile Limited, Hispamer Renting S.A. Unipersonal, Holbah II Limited, Holbah Santander S.L. Unipersonal, Holmes Funding Limited, Holmes Master Issuer plc, Holmes Trustees Limited, Hyundai Capital Bank Europe GmbH, Iberica de Compras Corporativas S.L., Independence Community Bank Corp., Insurance Funding Solutions Limited, Interfinance Holanda B.V., Inversiones Capital Global S.A. Unipersonal, Inversiones Maritimas del Mediterraneo S.A., Isla de los Buques S.A., Klare Corredora de Seguros S.A., Landcompany 2020 S.L., Langton Funding (No.1) Limited, Langton Mortgages Trustee (UK) Limited, Langton Securities (2008-1) plc, Langton Securities (2010-1) PLC, Langton Securities (2010-2) PLC, Laparanza S.A., Liquidity Limited, Luri 1 S.A. en liquidacion (b) (e), Luri 6 S.A. Unipersonal, Master Red Europa S.L., Mata Alta S.L., Merciver S.L., Mercury TFS, Mercury Trade Finance Solutions S.A. de C.V., Mercury Trade Finance Solutions S.L., Mercury Trade Finance Solutions S.p.A., Moneybit S.L., Mortgage Engine Limited, Motor 2016-1 PLC, Motor 2017-1 PLC, Mouro Capital I LP, Multiplica SpA, NW Services CO., Naviera Mirambel S.L., Naviera Trans Gas A.I.E., Naviera Trans Iron S.L., Naviera Trans Ore A.I.E., Naviera Trans Wind S.L. (b), Naviera Transcantabrica S.L., Naviera Transchem S.L. Unipersonal, NeoAuto S.A.C., Norbest AS, Novimovest Fundo de Investimento Imobiliario, Open Bank Argentina S.A., Open Bank S.A., Open Digital Market S.L., Open Digital Services S.L., Operadora de Carteras Gamma S.A.P.I. de C.V., Optimal Investment Services SA, Optimal Multiadvisors Ireland Plc / Optimal Strategic US Equity Ireland Euro Fund, Optimal Multiadvisors Ireland Plc / Optimal Strategic US Equity Ireland US Dollar Fund, PBE Companies LLC, PECOH Limited, PI Distribuidora de Titulos e Valores Mobiliarios S.A., PSA Bank Deutschland GmbH, PSA Banque France, PSA Finance UK Limited, PSA Financial Services Nederland B.V., PSA Financial Services Spain E.F.C. S.A., PSA Renting Italia S.p.A., PagoFX Europe S.A., PagoFX HoldCo S.L., PagoFX UK Ltd, PagoNxt Merchant Solutions S.L., PagoNxt S.L., Parasant SA, Patagon.com, Pereda Gestion S.A., Pingham International S.A., Popular Spain Holding de Inversiones S.L.U., Portal Universia Argentina S.A., Portal Universia Portugal Prestacao de Servicos de Informatica S.A., Prime 16 Fundo de Investimentos Imobiliario, Punta Lima LLC, Punta Lima Wind Farm LLC, Retop S.A., Return Capital Servicos de Recuperacao de Creditos S.A., Return Gestao de Recursos S.A., Riobank International (Uruguay) SAIFE (b), Rojo Entretenimento S.A., SAM Asset Management S.A. de C.V. Sociedad Operadora de Fondos de Inversion, SAM Investment Holdings S.L., SAM UK Investment Holdings Limited (b), SANB Promotora de Vendas e Cobranca Ltda., SCF Eastside Locks GP Limited, SDMX Superdigital S.A. de C.V., SMPS Merchant Platform Solutions Mexico S.A de C.V, Sancap Investimentos e Participacoes S.A., Santander (CF Trustee Property Nominee) Limited, Santander (UK) Group Pension Schemes Trustees Limited, Santander Ahorro Inmobiliario 1 S.A., Santander Ahorro Inmobiliario 2 S.A., Santander Alternatives SICAV RAIF, Santander Asesorias Financieras Limitada, Santander Asset Finance (December) Limited, Santander Asset Finance plc, Santander Asset Management - S.G.O.I.C. S.A., Santander Asset Management Chile S.A., Santander Asset Management LLC, Santander Asset Management Luxembourg S.A., Santander Asset Management S.A. Administradora General de Fondos, Santander Asset Management S.A. S.G.I.I.C., Santander Asset Management UK Holdings Limited, Santander Asset Management UK Limited, Santander Back-Offices Globales Mayoristas S.A., Santander Banca de Inversion Colombia S.A.S., Santander Bank & Trust Ltd., Santander Bank National Association, Santander Bank Polska S.A., Santander Brasil Administradora de Consorcio Ltda., Santander Brasil Gestao de Recursos Ltda., Santander Brasil Tecnologia S.A., Santander Capital Desarrollo SGEIC S.A. Unipersonal, Santander Capital Structuring S.A. de C.V., Santander Capitalizacao S.A., Santander Cards Ireland Limited, Santander Cards Limited, Santander Cards UK Limited, Santander Chile Holding S.A., Santander Consulting (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Santander Consumer (UK) plc, Santander Consumer Auto Receivables Funding 2013-B2 LLC, Santander Consumer Auto Receivables Funding 2013-B3 LLC, Santander Consumer Auto Receivables Funding 2018-L1 LLC, Santander Consumer Auto Receivables Funding 2018-L3 LLC, Santander Consumer Auto Receivables Funding 2018-L4 LLC, Santander Consumer Auto Receivables Funding 2018-L5 LLC, Santander Consumer Auto Receivables Funding 2019-B1 LLC, Santander Consumer Auto Receivables Funding 2019-L2 LLC, Santander Consumer Auto Receivables Funding 2019-L3 LLC, Santander Consumer Auto Receivables Funding 2020-B1 LLC, Santander Consumer Auto Receivables Funding 2020-L1 LLC, Santander Consumer Auto Receivables Funding 2020-L2 LLC, Santander Consumer Bank, Santander Consumer Bank AG, Santander Consumer Bank GmbH, Santander Consumer Bank S.A., Santander Consumer Bank S.p.A., Santander Consumer Banque S.A., Santander Consumer Credit Services Limited, Santander Consumer Finance Benelux B.V., Santander Consumer Finance Global Services S.L., Santander Consumer Finance Oy, Santander Consumer Finance S.A., Santander Consumer Finance Schweiz AG, Santander Consumer Financial Solutions Sp. z o.o., Santander Consumer Finanse Sp. z o.o. (b), Santander Consumer Holding Austria GmbH, Santander Consumer Holding GmbH, Santander Consumer International Puerto Rico LLC, Santander Consumer Leasing GmbH, Santander Consumer Mediacion Operador de Banca-Seguros Vinculado S.L., Santander Consumer Multirent Sp. z o.o., Santander Consumer Operations Services GmbH, Santander Consumer Receivables 10 LLC, Santander Consumer Receivables 11 LLC, Santander Consumer Receivables 3 LLC, Santander Consumer Receivables 7 LLC, Santander Consumer Receivables Funding LLC, Santander Consumer Renting S.L., Santander Consumer S.A., Santander Consumer S.A.S., Santander Consumer Services GmbH, Santander Consumer Services S.A., Santander Consumer Technology Services GmbH, Santander Consumer USA Holdings Inc., Santander Consumer USA Inc., Santander Consumo S.A. de C.V. S.O.F.O.M. E.R. Grupo Financiero Santander Mexico, Santander Corredora de Seguros Limitada, Santander Corredores de Bolsa Limitada, Santander Corretora de Cambio e Valores Mobiliarios S.A., Santander Corretora de Seguros Investimentos e Servicos S.A., Santander Customer Voice S.A., Santander Digital Assets S.L., Santander Drive Auto Receivables LLC, Santander Equity Investments Limited, Santander Espana Merchant Services Entidad de Pago S.L. Unipersonal, Santander Espana Servicios Legales y de Cumplimiento S.L., Santander Estates Limited, Santander F24 S.A., Santander Facility Management Espana S.L., Santander Factoring S.A., Santander Factoring Sp. z o.o., Santander Factoring y Confirming S.A. E.F.C., Santander Finance 2012-1 LLC, Santander Financial Exchanges Limited, Santander Financial Services Inc., Santander Financial Services plc, Santander Finanse Sp. z o.o., Santander Fintech Holdings S.L., Santander Fintech Limited, Santander Fundo de Investimento SBAC Referenciado di Credito Privado, Santander Gestion de Recaudacion y Cobranzas Ltda., Santander Global Consumer Finance Limited, Santander Global Facilities S.A. de C.V., Santander Global Facilities S.L., Santander Global Operations S.A., Santander Global Services S.A. (b), Santander Global Sport S.A., Santander Global Technology Brasil Ltda., Santander Global Technology Chile Limitada, Santander Global Technology S.L., Santander Global Trade Platform Solutions S.L., Santander Guarantee Company, Santander Holding Imobiliaria S.A., Santander Holding Internacional S.A., Santander Holdings USA Inc., Santander ISA Managers Limited, Santander Inclusion Financiera S.A. de C.V. S.O.F.O.M. E.R. Grupo Financiero Santander Mexico, Santander Insurance Agency U.S. LLC, Santander Insurance Services UK Limited, Santander Intermediacion Correduria de Seguros S.A., Santander International Products Plc. (d), Santander Inversiones S.A., Santander Investment Bank Limited, Santander Investment Chile Limitada, Santander Investment I S.A., Santander Investment S.A., Santander Investment Securities Inc., Santander Investments GP 1 S.a.r.l., Santander Inwestycje Sp. z o.o., Santander Lease S.A. E.F.C., Santander Leasing LLC, Santander Leasing S.A., Santander Leasing S.A. Arrendamento Mercantil, Santander Lending Limited, Santander Mediacion Operador de Banca-Seguros Vinculado S.A., Santander Merchant Platform Operations S.A. de C.V., Santander Merchant Platform Services S.A. de C.V., Santander Merchant Platform Solutions Mexico S.A. de C.V., Santander Merchant Platform Solutions S.A., Santander Merchant Platform Solutions Uruguay S.A., Santander Merchant Platform SolucoesTecnologicas Brasil Ltda., Santander Merchant S.A., Santander Mortgage Holdings Limited, Santander Paraty Qif PLC, Santander Pensiones S.A. E.G.F.P., Santander Pensoes - Sociedade Gestora de Fundos de Pensoes S.A., Santander Private Banking Gestion S.A. S.G.I.I.C., Santander Private Banking UK Limited, Santander Private Banking s.p.a. in Liquidazione (b), Santander Private Real Estate Advisory & Management S.A., Santander Private Real Estate Advisory S.A., Santander Real Estate S.A., Santander Retail Auto Lease Funding LLC, Santander Rio Asset Management Gerente de Fondos Comunes de Inversion S.A., Santander Rio Trust S.A., Santander Rio Valores S.A., Santander S.A. Sociedad Securitizadora, Santander Secretariat Services Limited, Santander Securities LLC, Santander Seguros y Reaseguros Compania Aseguradora S.A., Santander Servicios Corporativos S.A. de C.V., Santander Servicios Especializados S.A. de C.V., Santander Technology USA LLC, Santander Tecnologia e Inovacao Ltda., Santander Tecnologia Argentina S.A., Santander Tecnologia Espana S.L.U., Santander Tecnologia Mexico S.A. de C.V., Santander Totta SGPS S.A., Santander Totta Seguros Companhia de Seguros de Vida S.A., Santander Towarzystwo Funduszy Inwestycyjnych S.A., Santander Trade Services Limited, Santander UK Group Holdings plc, Santander UK Investments, Santander UK Operations Limited, Santander UK Plc, Santander UK Technology Limited, Santander Wealth Management International SA, Santander de Titulizacion S.G.F.T. S.A., Santusa Holding S.L., Services and Promotions Delaware Corp., Services and Promotions Miami LLC, Servicio de Alarmas Controladas por Ordenador S.A., Servicios de Cobranza Recuperacion y Seguimiento S.A. De C.V., Sheppards Moneybrokers Limited, Shiloh III Wind Project LLC, Sociedad Integral de Valoraciones Automatizadas S.A., Sociedad Operadora de Tarjetas de Pago Santander Getnet Chile S.A., Socur S.A., Sol Orchard Imperial 1 LLC, Solarlaser Limited, Sovereign Community Development Company, Sovereign Delaware Investment Corporation, Sovereign Lease Holdings LLC, Sovereign REIT Holdings Inc., Sovereign Spirit Limited (f), Sterrebeeck B.V., Suleyado 2003 S.L. Unipersonal, Summer Empreendimentos Ltda., Super Pagamentos e Administracao de Meios Eletronicos S.A., Superdigital Argentina S.A.U., Superdigital Colombia S.A.S., Superdigital Holding Company S.L., Superdigital Peru S.A.C., Suzuki Servicios Financieros S.L., Swesant SA, TIMFin S.p.A., TOPSAM S.A de C.V., Taxagest Sociedade Gestora de Participacoes Sociais S.A., Teatinos Siglo XXI Inversiones S.A., The Alliance & Leicester Corporation Limited, The Best Specialty Coffee S.L. Unipersonal, Time Retail Finance Limited (b), Tonopah Solar I LLC, Toque Fale Servicos de Telemarketing Ltda., Tornquist Asesores de Seguros S.A. (b), Totta (Ireland) PLC, Totta Urbe - Empresa de Administracao e Construcoes S.A., Trabajando.com Mexico S.A. de C.V. en liquidacion (b), Trabajando.com Peru S.A.C., Trans Rotor Limited (b), Transolver Finance EFC S.A., Tresmares Growth Fund Santander SCR S.A., Tresmares Santander Direct Lending SICC S.A., Tuttle and Son Limited, Universia Brasil S.A., Universia Chile S.A., Universia Colombia S.A.S., Universia Espana Red de Universidades S.A., Universia Holding S.L., Universia Mexico S.A. de C.V., Universia Peru S.A., Universia Uruguay S.A., Uro Property Holdings SOCIMI S.A., WIM Servicios Corporativos S.A. de C.V., WTW Shipping Designated Activity Company, Wallcesa S.A., Wave Holdco S.L., Waypoint Insurance Group Inc., and Wirecard (Technological Assets). The following companies are subsidiares of TransDigm Group: 1711 Waterview Pkwy LLC, ARA Deutschland GmbH, ARA Holding GmbH, Acme Aerospace, Adams Rite Aerospace GmbH, Adams Rite Aerospace Inc., Advanced Inflatable Products Limited, Aero-Instruments, AeroControlex Group Inc., Aerosonic, Aerosonic LLC, Air-Sea Survival Equipment Trustee Limited, Airborne Acquisition Inc., Airborne Global Inc., Airborne Holdings Inc., Airborne Systems, Airborne Systems Canada Ltd., Airborne Systems Group Limited, Airborne Systems Holdings Limited, Airborne Systems Limited, Airborne Systems NA Inc., Airborne Systems North America Inc., Airborne Systems North America of CA Inc., Airborne Systems North America of NJ Inc., Airborne Systems Pension Trust Limited, Airborne UK Acquisition Limited, Airborne UK Parent Limited, Aircraft Materials Limited, AmSafe, AmSafe Aviation (Chongqing) Ltd., AmSafe Bridport (Kunshan) Co. Ltd., AmSafe Bridport (Private) Ltd., AmSafe Bridport Ltd., AmSafe Global Holdings Inc., AmSafe Global Services (Private) Limited, AmSafe Inc., Angus Electronics Co., Arkwin Industries, Arkwin Industries Inc., Auxitrol SAS, Auxitrol Weston Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Auxitrol Weston Singapore Pte. Ltd., Auxitrol Weston USA Inc., Aviation Technologies, Aviation Technologies Inc., Avionic Instruments LLC, Avionics Instruments, Avionics Specialties Inc., AvtechTyee Inc., Beta Transformer Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Beta Transformer Technology Corporation, Beta Transformer Technology LLC, Breeze-Eastern Corporation, Breeze-Eastern LLC, Bridport Erie Aviation Inc., Bridport Holdings Inc., Bridport Ltd., Bridport-Air Carrier Inc., Bruce Aerospace Inc., Bruce Industries, CDA InterCorp LLC, CEF Industries LLC, CMC Electronics Inc., CMC Electronics ME Inc., Champion Aerospace LLC, Cobham, DDC Electronics K.K., DDC Electronics Ltd., DDC Electronics Private Limited, DDC Electronique S.A.R.L., DDC Elektronik GmbH, Darchem Engineering Limited, Darchem Holdings Limited, Data Device Corp., Data Device Corporation, Dukes Aerospace Inc., EST Defence Company UK Limited, Edlaw Limited, Electromech Technologies LLC, Elektro-Metall Export GmbH, Elektro-Metall Paks KFT, Esterline, Esterline Acquisition Ltd, Esterline Europe Company LLC, Esterline Foreign Sales Corporation, Esterline International Company, Esterline Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Esterline Services China Ltd., Esterline Technologies Acquisition Ltd, Esterline Technologies Corporation, Esterline Technologies Europe Limited, Esterline Technologies France Holding SAS, Esterline Technologies French Acquisition Limited, Esterline Technologies Global Limited, Esterline Technologies Holdings Limited, Esterline Technologies Management France SAS, Esterline Technologies SGIP LLC, Esterline Technologies Unlimited, Esterline do Brasil Assessoria e Intermediacao Ltda, Extant Components Group Holdings Inc., Extant Components Group Intermediate Inc., GQ Parachutes Limited, Guizhou Leach-Tianyi Aviation Electrical Company Ltd, Harco, HarcoSemco LLC, Hartwell Corporation, ILC Holdings Inc., Irvin Aerospace Limited, IrvinGQ France SAS, IrvinGQ Limited, Janco Corporation, Johnson Liverpool LLC, Jupiter SAS, Kirkhill Elastomers, Kirkhill Inc., Kunshan Shield Restraint Systems Ltd., Leach Holding Corporation, Leach International Asia-Pacific Ltd, Leach International Europe S.A.S., Leach International Mexico S. de R. L. de C. V., Leach International UK Ltd, Leach Technology Group Inc., MarathonNorco Aerospace Inc., McKechnie Aerospace, McKechnie Aerospace (Europe) Ltd., McKechnie Aerospace DE Inc., McKechnie Aerospace DE LP, McKechnie Aerospace Holdings Inc., McKechnie Aerospace US LLC, Mecanismos de Matamoros S.A. de C.V., Militair Aviation Ltd., Norco, Nordisk Asia Pacific Limited, Nordisk Asia Pacific Pte Ltd, Nordisk Aviation Products (Kunshan) Ltd., Nordisk Aviation Products AS, North Hills Signal Processing Corp., North Hills Signal Processing Overseas Corp., Norwich Aero Products Inc., Pascall Electronics Limited, Pexco Aerospace, Pexco Aerospace Inc., PneuDraulics, PneuDraulics Inc., Pressure Systems International Ltd, Racal Acoustics Inc., Racal Acoustics Limited, Rancho TransTechnology Corporation, Retainers Inc., SSP Industries, Schneller, Schneller Asia Pte. Ltd., Schneller LLC, Schneller S.A.R.L., Schroth Safety Products, ScioTeq LLC, ScioTeq Ltd., ScioTeq Pte. Ltd., ScioTeq SAS, ScioTeq bvba, Semco Instruments, Semco Instruments Inc., Shield Restraint Systems Inc., Shield Restraint Systems Ltd., Signal Processing Matamoros S.A. de C.V., Skandia, Skandia Inc., Skurka Aerospace, Skurka Aerospace Inc., Symetrics Industries, Symetrics Industries LLC, Symetrics Technology Group LLC, TA Mfg Limited, TDG ESL Holdings Inc., TDG France Ultimate Parent SAS, TDG Germany GmbH, TEAC Aerospace Holdings Inc., TEAC Aerospace Technologies Inc., TREALITY SVS LLC, TTERUSA Inc., Tactair Fluid Controls Inc., Takata Protection Systems, Technical Airborne Components Industries SPRL, Telair International, Telair International AB, Telair International GmbH, Telair International LLC, Telair International Services PTE Ltd, Telair US LLC, Texas Rotronics Inc., TransDigm (Barbados) SRL, TransDigm Canada ULC, TransDigm European Holdings Limited, TransDigm Ireland Ltd., TransDigm Receivables LLC, TransDigm UK Holdings plc, Transicoil (Malaysia) Sendirian Berhad, Transicoil LLC, Wallop Industries Limited, Weston Aerospace Ltd, Whippany Actuation Systems, Whippany Actuation Systems LLC, XCEL Power Systems Ltd., Young & Franklin, and Young & Franklin Inc.. American Consumer News, LLC dba MarketBeat 2010-2021. All rights reserved. 326 E 8th St #105, Sioux Falls, SD 57103 | U.S. Based Support Team at co[email protected] | (844) 978-6257 MarketBeat does not provide personalized financial advice and does not issue recommendations or offers to buy stock or sell any security. Our Accessibility Statement | Terms of Service | Do Not Sell My Information 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. Brookdale Senior Living, Inc. engages in the operation of senior living communities. The firm manages independent living, assisted living and dementia-care communities and continuing care retirement centers. It operates through the following segments: Independent Living Assisted Living & Memory Care, CCRCs, Health Care Services and Management Services. The Independent Living segment is primarily designed for middle to upper income seniors who desire an upscale residential environment providing the highest quality of service. The Assisted Living & Memory Care segment offer housing and 24-hour assistance with ADLs to mid-acuity frail and elderly residents. The CCRCs segment offers a variety of living arrangements and services to accommodate all levels of physical ability and health. The Healthcare Services segment provides home health, hospice and outpatient therapy services, as well as education and wellness programs, to residents of many communities and to seniors living outside communities. The Management Services segment composes of communities operated by the company pursuant to management agreements. The company was founded in 1978 and is headquartered in Brentwood, TN. Read More In a major blow to Apple, the federal jury in San Diego has found Apple guilty of violating Qualcomms patents and awarded it about $31.6 million in damages. The three patents relate to graphics processing, how a smartphone can quickly connect to the internet once turned on, and the third patent pertains to how app data is moved between the processor and modem. The suit was originally filed by Qualcomm in 2017. The $31.6 million damage amount was calculated on the basis of $1.41 per infringing iPhone which includes the iPhone 7, iPhone 8, and iPhone X. While this is a major blow to Apple, a bigger battle involving billions of dollars is set to start from next month. That trial will question Qualcomms business practices and how it licenses its patents to companies. Qualcomms ongoing campaign of patent infringement claims is nothing more than an attempt to distract from the larger issues they face with investigations into their business practices in U.S. federal court, and around the world, Josh Rosenstock, a spokesman for Apple, said in a statement. While we are disappointed with the outcome, we thank the jury for their service in this case. During the closing argument, APples counsel Juanita Brooks said Qualcomms real reason behind the lawsuit was to get back at the company for inducting Intel as a second modem supplier in its supply chain in 2016. Up until then, Apple used to exclusively use Qualcomm modem in its devices. Qualcomm went into a drawer, dusted off some old patents, and threw them against the wall to see if theyd stick, Brooks said. In response, Qualcomm counsel David Nelson said, Were entitled to get return on our intellectual property. This was the same trial in which Apples counsel claimed that one of its former engineers helped in creating the technology patented by Qualcomm. That engineer, Arjuna Siva, first backed out of appearing before the jury to testify in the court, though he never claimed or said that he should also be credited with creating the technology. Our Take Apple needs to worry about the trial that goes into hearing next month rather than this one. If the company ends up losing that trial, it could see itself having to make payments of more than a billion dollar to Qualcomm and it could have other repercussions on its business as well. Thats the trial that the entire smartphone industry will be watching closely because of its significance. We Want to Hear From You What are your thoughts on Qualcomm winning this trial against Apple? Do you think Qualcomm deserved a win here and Apple is being unfair to the chip maker? [Via Bloomberg Workers on Bernie Sanders' 2020 Democratic campaign have unionized, becoming the first presidential campaign staffers in history to do so. The United Food & Commercial Workers Local 400 confirmed Friday that Sanders' campaign workers were the first to win union representation. "We expect this will mean pay parity and transparency on the campaign, with no gender bias or harassment, and equal treatment for every worker, whether they're in Washington, D.C., Iowa, New Hampshire or anywhere else," UFCW Local 400 President Mark P. Federici said. Sanders' campaign manager Faiz Shakir says Sanders is honored to be the first presidential candidate with a unionized workforce. He called Sanders "the most pro-union candidate in the field." Working on political campaigns at any level often involves grueling hours and low pay. And recently, workers on some campaigns have been pushing to unionize. Earlier this year, Sanders apologized to female staffers on his 2016 presidential campaign who said they had experienced sexual harassment from male staffers. The New York Times had reported allegations of unwanted sexual advances, as well as pay inequity. At that time, Sanders said his 2018 re-election campaign to the Senate representing Vermont established "some of the strongest sexual harassment policies in the country," including requiring training for all employees and providing staffers with a way to report harassment to an independent firm. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. UFCW said Sanders' campaign had agreed to use "card check" to determine whether most workers wanted a union. In card check, union organizers ask workers to sign cards affirming that they support a union. If a majority of workers sign them, the union presents those cards to the employer so that the employer will recognize the union. The union said that by Friday, a majority of the campaign's 44 bargaining-unit-eligible employees had signed union cards. Sanders' aides said on a recent conference call that the campaign has roughly 70 paid staffers. The union says that all campaign employees below the level of deputy director will be represented by the union and that negotiations for a collective bargaining agreement will begin "as soon as possible." Federici called the unionization a breakthrough that he hoped would serve as a model for other campaigns. "While political campaigns aren't the easiest work environment, every worker has the right to respect and dignity," he said. "And when candidates who claim to support the labor movement practice what they preach, that sends a powerful message that, if elected, they will deliver on their promises to strengthen union rights and level the playing field between workers and employers." New York The man accused of mailing pipe bombs to critics of President Donald Trump is expected to plead guilty next week in federal court in Manhattan, the court's docket shows. The defendant, Cesar A. Sayoc Jr., a fervent Trump supporter, sent homemade bombs created with PVC pipe and glass shards to prominent Democrats, including Hillary Clinton and former President Barack Obama, as well as to CNN and actor Robert DeNiro, authorities said. The court's docket entry states only that there is a plea scheduled for Thursday, but it does not indicate what charges Sayoc will plead guilty to. He was indicted in November on 30 federal charges, including using a weapon of mass destruction and interstate transportation of an explosive. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. Ten of the counts carry a maximum sentence of life in prison, and under federal law, if he were convicted of a certain combination of those counts, the judge would be required to give him a life sentence. A possible plea deal might center on whether Sayoc could plead guilty to counts that leave the judge the discretion to sentence him to less time. Sayoc's federal public defenders and the U.S. attorney's office for the Southern District of New York declined to comment on his expected plea Friday. ALBANY - County officials in the Capital Region are taking a wait-and-see approach to the potential legalization of marijuana and sales within their borders. If state lawmakers and Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo strike a deal on a program regulating adult use of marijuana, it's likely that counties would get to decide whether they would allow the sales in their boundaries. Counties opting out of the system, as proposed by the governor's budget, would be excluded from sharing in the new revenues. Officials from Albany, Saratoga, Schenectady and Rensselaer counties haven't decided what will happen if they're forced to decide, and are still examining the merits and drawbacks of participating. "There are a lot of different angles for us to look at," said Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Chairman Kevin Tollisen, a Halfmoon Republican. Saratoga County's district attorney and sheriff previously announced their opposition to legalization. If even one of the Capital Region counties decides to opt in, it will likely have ramifications for the neighboring communities, which is why Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin would ideally want a "regional decision." "If we say 'no,' and our surrounding counties say 'yes,' we get the societal problems ... but we don't get the revenue to begin to help offset it," McLaughlin said. "I want to sit down with my counterparts." County leaders also have to take into account that New York residents can already legally purchase marijuana in Massachusetts and illegal markets would likely continue to operate in New York. "It's right on our doorstep," McLaughlin said. The question is complicated by the fact that no one knows what legalization will look like, if it happens. Cuomo is skeptical a deal can get done this year, but legislative leaders believe it's possible for an agreement to be struck during budget negotiations or the final three months of the legislative session. Based on what the New York State Association of Counties has seen in the proposals from the governor and Legislature, they believe the "risks and long-term negative consequences" of legalization outweigh any potential benefits. If adult use is approved for New York, the association wants the share of revenue proposed in the governor's plan for counties to be doubled so they have the resources to fund increased costs, such as law enforcement, public awareness campaigns and medical services. The county executives in Long Island preemptively decided this month that they will opt out of any system, at least for the first year. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. Albany County Legislature Chairman Andrew Joyce said a decision wouldn't be made preemptively, but stressed that they're being proactive about the process. He noted that Albany County District Attorney David Soares visited Colorado on a "fact-finding trip" and delivered a "mixed report" on the ramifications of legalization. Whatever happens, Joyce said, "We need to be ready." Schenectady County has yet to have "organized talks" about the possibility, according to county Legislature Majority Leader Gary Hughes. McLaughlin said discussions in Rensselaer County have been pretty "basic" so far. He was encouraged by the reporting suggesting legalization won't happen in the budget, which is due in less than two weeks, because he believes there are too many unanswered questions about what the final plan would look like. David.Lombardo@timesunion.com - 518.454.5427 - @poozer87 COLONIE -- The Islamic Center of the Capital District is inviting people of all faiths to a remembrance for the victims of Friday's massacres at two mosques in New Zealand to take place at 5 p.m. Sunday, March 17, at the center, located at 21 Lansing Road North in Colonie, off Route 5. "We would like to come together as a community to honor the victims with prayer and solidarity," said center President Zubair Ahmed. "Fellow Americans of all faiths are invited and welcome to this remembrance." Village of Castleton-on-Hudson on Facebook ALBANY - A wild seal traveling on a Hudson River ice floe off the shore of the village of Castleton-on-Hudson generated social media buzz on Friday afternoon. An image of the loose seal was posted by the village's public works department on Facebook, and had been shared more than 200 times in the early evening. Sydney The gunman behind at least one of the mosque shootings in New Zealand that left 49 people dead on Friday tried to make a few things clear in the manifesto he left behind: He is a 28-year-old Australian white nationalist who hates immigrants. He was angry about attacks in Europe that were perpetrated by Muslims. He wanted revenge, and he wanted to create fear. He also, quite clearly, wanted attention. Though he claimed not to covet fame, the gunman who authorities identified as Brenton Harrison Tarrant left behind a 74-page document posted on social media under his name in which he said he hoped to survive the attack to better spread his views in the media. He also livestreamed to the world in graphic detail his assault on the worshippers at Christchurch's Al Noor Mosque. That rampage killed at least 41 people, while an attack on a second mosque in the city not long after killed several more. Police did not say whether the same person was responsible for both shootings. Tarrant appeared briefly in court on Saturday morning amid tight security and showed no emotion as the judge read the charge against him. While his manifesto and video were an obvious and contemptuous ploy for infamy, they do contain important clues for a public trying to understand why anyone would target dozens of innocent people who were simply spending an afternoon engaged in prayer. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. There could be no more perplexing a setting for a mass slaughter than New Zealand, a nation so placid and so isolated from the mass shootings that plague the U.S. that police officers rarely carry guns. Yet the gunman himself highlighted New Zealand's remoteness as a reason he chose it. He wrote that an attack in New Zealand would show that no place on earth was safe and that even a country as far away as New Zealand is subject to mass immigration. He said he grew up in a working-class Australian family, had a typical childhood and was a poor student. Tarrant's relatives in the Australian town of Grafton contacted police after learning of the shooting and were helping with the investigation, local authorities said. COLONIE - A driver who may have had a medical problem crashed his utility pickup truck into power poles on Central Avenue Saturday morning, an accident that resulted in the closing of the busy street in both directions and some power outages. Police said the crash happened at about 8:30 a.m. when the 80-year-old Colonie resident collided with two poles on the avenue between Lapham and Red Fox drives in the village of Colonie, police said. [March 15, 2019] DUKE ENERGY INVESTIGATION INITIATED by Former Louisiana Attorney General: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC Investigates the Officers and Directors of Duke Energy Corporation - DUK Former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., Esq., a partner at the law firm of Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF"), announces that KSF has commenced an investigation into Duke Energy (News - Alert) Corporation (NYSE: DUK). On February 1, 2019, the Wall Street Journal reported that, based on a filing by the North American Electric Reliability Corp., a nonprofit oversight entity, and people familiar with the matter, the Company was facing a $10M fine by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for numerous violations of safety and cyber security rules, including "repeated failures to implement physical and cyber security protections," and that the Company had "failed to protect sensitive information on its most critical cyber assets and allowed employees without proper clearances to access computerized records for more than four years." According to the report, the 127 violations cited presented a serious risk to "the eastern interconnection, the web of electric utilities east of the Rocky Mountains that furnishes electricity to most Ameicans." KSF's investigation is focusing on whether Duke's officers and/or directors breached their fiduciary duties to Duke's shareholders or otherwise violated state or federal laws. If you have information that would assist KSF in its investigation, or have been a long-term holder of Duke shares and would like to discuss your legal rights, you may, without obligation or cost to you, call toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or email KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn ([email protected]), or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-duk/ to learn more. About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC KSF, whose partners include Former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is a law firm focused on securities, antitrust and consumer class actions, along with merger & acquisition and breach of fiduciary litigation against publicly traded companies on behalf of shareholders. The firm has offices in New York, California and Louisiana. To learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190315005581/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [March 15, 2019] DIPLOMAT PHARMACY SHAREHOLDER ALERT by Former Louisiana Attorney General: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC Reminds Investors with Losses in Excess of $100,000 of Lead Plaintiff Deadline in Class Action Lawsuit Against Diplomat Pharmacy, Inc. - DPLO Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have until April 25, 2019 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Diplomat Pharmacy, Inc. (NYSE: DPLO), if they purchased the Company's securities between February 26, 2018 and February 21, 2019, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. What You May Do If you purchased securities of Diplomat and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ([email protected]), or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-dplo/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court by April 25, 2019. About the Lawsuit Diplomat and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws. On February 22, 2019, Diplomat disclosed the postponement of the release of its Q4 and full-year 2018 earnings as it worked to finalize the amount of an impairment charge, which was "expected to be equal to a significant portion of the PBM's Goodwill and Definite-lived intangible assets, which total approximately $630 million as of December 31, 2018, prior to impairment charges." On this news, the price of Diplomat's shares plummeted over 56%. The case is Riehm v. Diplomat Pharmacy, Inc. et al, 19-cv-1369. About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC KSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is a law firm focused on securities, antitrust and consumer class actions, along with merger & acquisition and breach of fiduciary litigation against publicly traded companies on behalf of shareholders. The firm has offices in New York, California and Louisiana. To learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190315005588/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] UNV NGO Job 2019 For Communications Officer in Islamabad Latest United Nations Volunteers UNV NGO Posts Islamabad 2021 The United Nations Volunteers UNV is nonprofit organization NGO required qualified and well educated candidate for the position of Communications Officer in Islamabad Pakistan 2019. How to Apply on United Nations Volunteers UNV 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. [March 15, 2019] CVS SHAREHOLDER ALERT by Former Louisiana Attorney General: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC Reminds Investors with Losses in Excess of $100,000 of Lead Plaintiff Deadline in Class Action Lawsuit Against CVS Health Corporation - CVS Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have until April 26, 2019 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against CVS Health Corporation (NYSE: CVS), if they purchased the Company's securities between May 21, 2015 and February 20, 2019, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. What You May Do If you purchased securities of CVS and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ([email protected]), or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-cvs/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court by April 26, 2019. About the Lawsuit CVS and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws. On February 20, 2019, the Company announced its 4Q and full year financial results and provided its 2019 full year guidance, disclosing that 2019 adjusted earnings would be only $6.68 to $6.88 per share, much lower than average market estimates of $7.36, due to rising costs and poor results relating to its 2015 acquisition of Omnicare, Inc. On this news, the price of CVS' shares plummeted. The case is Anarkat v. CVS Health Corp., et al, 19-cv-01725. About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC KSF, whose partners include the former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is a law firm focused on securities, antitrust and consumer class actions, along with merger & acquisition and breach of fiduciary litigation against publicly traded companies on behalf of shareholders. The firm has offices in New York, California and Louisiana. To learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190315005554/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [March 15, 2019] WHITING PETROLEUM INVESTIGATION INITIATED by Former Louisiana Attorney General: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC Investigates the Officers and Directors of Whiting Petroleum Corporation - WLL Former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., Esq., a partner at the law firm of Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF"), announces that KSF has commenced an investigation into Whiting Petroleum Corporation (NYSE: WLL). On January 2, 2019, The Wall Street Journal reported in an article titled "Fracking's Secret Problem-Oil Wells Aren't Producing as Much as Forecast" that, according to a review of available public data on production, many of the Company's shale wells, specifically those involved in the fracking process, were producing oil and gas at a much lower rate than the Company had forecasted to investors. Further, the report noted that "findings suggest current production levels may be hard to sustain without greater spending because operators will have to drill more wells to meet growth targets." KSF's investigation is focusing on whether Whiting's officers and/or directors breached their fiduciary duties to Whiting's shareholders or othewise violated state or federal laws. If you have information that would assist KSF in its investigation, or have been a long-term holder of Whiting shares and would like to discuss your legal rights, you may, without obligation or cost to you, call toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or email KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn ([email protected]), or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-wll/ to learn more. About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC KSF, whose partners include the Former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is a law firm focused on securities, antitrust and consumer class actions, along with merger & acquisition and breach of fiduciary litigation against publicly traded companies on behalf of shareholders. The firm has offices in New York, California and Louisiana. To learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190315005572/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] EQUITY ALERT: Rosen Law Firm Continues Investigating NiSource Inc. for Violations of the Federal Securities Laws - NI Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces it is investigating potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of NiSource Inc. (NYSE:NI) resulting from allegations that NiSource may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public. On September 13, 2018, dozens of gas explosions destroyed multiple homes in Andover, North Andover, and Lawrence, Massachusetts, killing one person and injuring more than one dozen. Andover's Fire Chief subsequently announced that investigators suspected over-pressurization of a gas main belonging to Columbia Gas of Massachusetts ("Columbia"), a unit of NiSource. Following this news, NiSource's stock price fell $3.29 per share or 11.72% to close at $24.79 on September 14, 2018. Then, on November 1, 2018, NiSource disclosed that NiSource and Columbia "are subject to a criminal investigation being conducted under the supervision of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts." NiSource disclosed that the grand jury subpoenas were served on September 24, 2018. Rosen Law Firm is preparing a class action lawsuit to recover losses suffered by NiSource investors.If you purchased shares of NiSource please visit the firm's website at https://www.rosenlegal.com/cases-register-1442.html to join the class action. You may also contact Phillip Kim or Zachary Halper of Rosen Law Firm toll free at 866-767-3653 or via email at [email protected] or [email protected]. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn (News - Alert): https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm or on Twitter (News - Alert): https://twitter.com/rosen_firm. Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 3 each year since 2013. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190316005010/en/ Not all mice are created equal, as anyone who's ever worked in an office can attest. While your mouse at home may be decked out with all sorts of extra buttons, thumb rests and software features, you're lucky if your work mouse has a functional scroll wheel. Finding the right mouse is even more troublesome if you have carpal tunnel syndrome but a good ergonomic mouse can alleviate the pain. And if you play your cards right, you may even convince your employer to pick one up for you. That's what today's reader, Naomi Brownstein, is looking for: "As a statistician, my job involves a lot of typing and computer activities such as writing papers, coding and more," she explained. Three years ago, her job provided her with an Evoluent ergonomic mouse, which she described as an "epic fail" that made her nagging wrist pain even worse. "The key for me is that I have small hands and already know I am susceptible to [wrist] problems," she wrote. "I am not picky about brand names or exact model type [I want to] minimize motion in the fingers, stabilize the hand and wrist and use more motion in the elbow/forearm/triceps. My guess is that rules out a trackball mouse but leaves open traditional ergonomic designs, vertical designs, hybrids or others that follow the same broad principles." (In the interest of full disclosure, Naomi is a friend of mine from a Birthright Israel trip we took last year. But when she texted me a litany of smart questions about how to pick an ergonomic mouse, I wanted to share the wealth with the rest of our readers.) That's a very detailed request, and as such, it deserves a detailed response. What's an ergonomic mouse, anyway? "Ergonomic" is one of those terms that means all things to all people. "Ergonomic" can mean "comfortable"; it can mean "oddly shaped"; it can even mean "designed to address medical issues." Logitech MX Master 2S If it helps, Merriam-Webster defines "ergonomic" as "an applied science concerned with designing and arranging things people use so that people and things can interact most efficiently and safely." For simplicity's sake, then, let's say that an "ergonomic mouse" is "a mouse designed with efficiency and comfort in mind." MORE: 15 Cheap Gaming Mice ($25 and Under) Ranked from Best to Worst Granted, one person's comfortable is another person's painful. But I think it's fair to say that mice with contours, thumb rests, large grips and so forth are ergonomic; standard office mice are not. To game or not to game? One hobby horse I'm always happy to ride is that "gaming mice are also excellent for productivity." There seems to be a stigma against using a gaming mouse in the office, but I can't think of a single logical reason to disavow them. Not only do they have ergonomic designs and a ton of DPI options, but you can also very often program extra buttons and make use of software to tweak a variety of settings. Modern gaming mice usually have black chassis, which look unobtrusive, and RGB lighting options, so you can program gentle colors or turn off illumination entirely. So, before you drop more than $100 on a fancy productivity mouse, consider what a $60 gaming model could do for you. (Image credit: Razer Atheris (Credit: Razer)) While there are a few small gaming mice on the market, the $50 Razer Atheris is my top recommendation. Because it's a laptop mouse, it's optimized for smaller hands (the mouse measures 3.9 x 2.5 inches and weighs 3.5 ounces). Furthermore, you can crank up the DPI (dots per inch) with the touch of a button, meaning that you can scroll across your entire screen with just the flick of a wrist. The mouse has an ergonomic design, with a subtle curve for right-handed users, as well as programmable thumb buttons. The mouse's wireless features are just icing on the cake. However, because you still have to use the Atheris in a traditional wrist-down configuration, you'll probably want a gel wrist rest to alleviate some stress if you're prone to pain in that area. Optimized for the office Of course, gaming mice can be daunting, particularly since the software is optimized for video games rather than office programs. If you'd rather go with an office mouse, there are two models to consider. One of them is just an excellent all-around option; the other radically changes the way you position your wrist. Logitech MX Anywhere 2S The first is the $80 Logitech MX Anywhere 2S. This teeny-tiny version of the excellent Logitech MX Master 2S keeps most of its big brother's helpful features at a fraction of the size. The MX Anywhere 2S has a deep, textured thumb groove, making it easy to hold for long periods of time. Logitech MX Anywhere 2S Logitech MX Anywhere 2S And like with a gaming mouse, you can adjust the MX Anywhere 2S' sensitivity in a Logitech software package, meaning you can cover vast screen distances using only tiny movements. But, again, your wrist will still press down against the mouse pad, so a wrist rest is a necessity for the carpal tunneled among us. Logitech MX Vertical Finally, while I'd give it a much more tentative recommendation than either the Atheris or the MX Anywhere 2S, the $100 Logitech MX Vertical might be worth a look. This mouse is like a standard ergonomic peripheral, just rotated about 45 degrees. The idea is that you'll exert less pressure on the bottom of your wrist. Logitech MX Vertical Logitech MX Vertical In my tests, the mouse was comfortable to hold and easy to use, but it didn't alleviate wrist pressure entirely; it just moved that pressure from the bottom to the side of my wrist. Still, if the bottom of your wrist is prone to pain and the side isn't, this could solve a problem (even if you'd just be exchanging the pain at the bottom of your wrist for a different problem a few months down the line). A solid recommendation Of the three mice discussed here, I'd probably go with the MX Anywhere 2S. It's more straightforward than a gaming mouse, ideal for folks with small hands and comfortable enough to hold for hours at a time. I would definitely up the sensitivity and invest in a gel wrist rest, too. It's not a perfect solution for carpal tunnel but then again, there might not be one. MORE: Best Gaming Mouse Available Right Now Naomi said I'd earn bonus points if I could explain some of the science behind ergonomic mice, and the best article I found was a study from a journal called Applied Ergonomics. After extensive research, scientists determined that vertical mice had no effect on carpal tunnel pressure and suggested that mouse shape is a matter of user preference rather than medical utility. As such, if you can, try both vertical and horizontal ergonomic mice, see which one feels better, then invest in a wrist rest and be sure to take frequent breaks. Ergonomists may someday develop a mouse that eases carpal tunnel symptoms, but that day is apparently not here yet. Credit: Logitech The Galaxy S10 marks the biggest upgrade for Samsung's flagship handsets since 2017's Galaxy S8. And much like the S10 now, the S8 was one of the finest smartphone cameras of its day, demonstrating particularly strong performance in challenging backlit and low-light scenarios. So, it stands to reason that there are quite a few S8 owners out there who are eyeing an upgrade to the S10 and are perhaps curious as to how much better the newer phone's rear triple-lens camera really is. To answer that question, we've put together a range of photo comparisons illustrating how far Samsung's photography tech has come in the last two years. This should help you decide whether to take that plunge and upgrade to the S10. Comparing the specs The most obvious difference between the Galaxy S10 and S8, in terms of photography, comes in the number of cameras on the back of the phone. The S10 has three of them: a primary, dual-pixel, 12-megapixel sensor that can also change its aperture on the fly between f/1.5 and f/2.4; a 12-MP telephoto lens that enables 2x optical zoom; and a 16-MP wide-angle lens, which is a first for the Galaxy S line. The S8, on the other hand, has only one camera on the back. This shooter is also a 12-MP sensor of the dual-pixel variety, though it lacks the variable-aperture mechanism introduced in last year's Galaxy S9, meaning it's constrained to f/1.7 at all times. On the front of the S8, there's an 8-MP camera for selfies, while the S10 has a 10-MP sensor, inset within the phone's display, hole-punch style. (For even more selfie cams, consider the Galaxy S10 Plus, which adds a second 8-MP, depth-sensing shooter for more-precise bokeh effects when taking self-portraits.) Times Square The Galaxy S8 keeps good pace with the S10 through this first comparison. There's a lot of information here, but if you look closely, you can see little areas where the S10 edges out the older phone. The shadows don't obscure quite as much detail, there's a bit more color in the buildings the farther back you go, and the sky is a brighter, fuller shade of blue with more visible clouds. Still, the differences in this first side-by-side comparison aren't so obvious that the S10 really proves its worth. In picturesque conditions like these, the latest Galaxy handset isn't that much more capable than Samsung's two-year-old phone. Street Signs The S10's strengths become more apparent once we throw 2x zoom into the mix. One of the S10's three cameras is a telephoto lens, which means it carves a really narrow field of view, pulls the background in and is perfect for optical zoom. The S8 has only a single lens, so it's stuck with good, old-fashioned digital zoom. Because of that telephoto, the S10 can pull off 2x zoomed shots that are far more crisp and colorful than the S8's could ever be. The text on the street signs is sharper through the S10's lens, the silver of the post is brighter, and there's far less noise in some of the darker areas on the yellow traffic lights and walk signs. Portrait With the S10's multiple lenses, it can also pull off tricks that are best done with stereoscopic lenses, like portraits with bokeh background blur. Some phones, like Google's Pixel 3, accomplish this convincingly through software alone. However, the S8 doesn't have any feature of the sort. As a result, on your S8, you're not going to get those dramatic, shallow-depth-of-field shots that the S10 pulls off so well. But even besides the blur component, the S10 just manages an all-around better portrait of my colleague Caitlin here, with lighting that's more even and contrast that isn't quite so extreme. Entrance Samsung's greatest strides have been made in low light, which the S10 demonstrates with this impressive shot taken inside the entrance to the Tom's Guide office. Theater This shot proved to be the most challenging of the bunch, between the dark corners of the theater's facade, the warmth from the bulbs and the intense light from the sky radiating out of the top right of the frame. These difficult conditions manifested themselves in noticeable lens flare that plagued both phones' images. However, the effect isn't quite as diffused on the S10, allowing the left-hand side of the photo to be rendered in stark clarity. The textured pattern of the ceiling, the red brick of the theater's outside wall and even the poster near the center are all much more discernible on the newer phone's shot. Conversely, the S8 smooths out these details and fails to retain any color in the sky. Bottom Line In case there was any doubt, the Galaxy S10 is an overall better camera than the Galaxy S8 but then, you would assume a newer phone would outperform a predecessor from two years before it. What are more interesting are the particular ways in which the S10 beats its ancestor. In perfect lighting and situations where you wouldn't use 2x optical zoom, portrait effects or anything of the sort, the S10 doesn't offer a massive advantage. In fact, we were impressed by how well the older phone has held up after all this time, especially in the Times Square photo shoot. MORE: Samsung Galaxy S10 Review: This One's Just Right On the flip side, when conditions are less than ideal, the S10 truly shines, thanks to a combination of improved optics and advancements in computational photography. Ultimately, we wouldn't recommend upgrading to the S10 on the basis of its camera alone; other factors like performance and battery life should enter into your decision. That said, if you're an S8 owner on the fence about upgrading and you consider yourself something of a shutterbug, Samsung's latest flagship certainly won't disappoint you during those tougher photo-ops. Credit: Tom's Guide PLATTE COUNTY, MO (KCTV) - Storms and melting snow are causing severe flooding along the Missouri River in Nebraska and northern Missouri, and a local official warns that areas in the metro could be next. Local Muslims In Mourning Kansas City area mosques mourn tragedy in New Zealand KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) - The day after a deadly mass shooting targeting Muslims half a world away, dozens of people showed up for their daily afternoon prayer at the Masjidu Nuur Islamic Community Center in northeast Kansas City. Kansas City Call To Prayer Worshipers gather at interfaith service following New Zealand mosque attacks OVERLAND PARK, Kan. -- People from all walks of life gathered Friday night at the Overland Park Islamic Center to pray for the victims of a pair of deadly mosque attacks in New Zealand. Mourners said a special prayer for the victims and their families. Tribute After Terrorist Scare KC mosque offers up prayers for New Zealand victims At a Kansas City mosque Friday, part of the prayer service included prayers for the New Zealand victims. Policy Perspective The Memo: Questions sharpen for Trump after New Zealand massacre Friday's mass shooting in New Zealand is sharpening scrutiny of the rhetoric of international political figures, including . Even trenchant Trump critics have not accused him of a direct line of culpability for the shooting at two mosques in Christchurch that left at least 49 people dead. MAGA Fights Blame Game Trump supporters rebuked those blaming the president's anti-Muslim rhetoric for influencing New Zealand shooter American supporters of President Donald Trump littered social media with posts condemning accusations tying the president's so-called anti-Muslim, anti-immigrant rhetoric to Friday's shooting at two New Zealand mosques. The president's supporters on Twitter, Facebook and the hugely popular r/thedonald subreddit lashed out against U.S. Fox News On The Defensive Efforts to blame Trump after New Zealand mosque attacks Domestic blame game begins as Trump extends support to New Zealand; reaction from The Hill columnist Buck Sexton. But Both Sides Blame The Internets In Christchurch, Signs Point to a Gunman Steeped in Internet Trolling A camera mounted to his head, the gunman who livestreamed part of his savage attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, on Friday began his video by casually making reference to a current internet meme. He appeared to be steeped in the culture of the extreme-right internet. A round-up of local perspective and context on the American political fallout of International terror blamed on the right wing.More to the point . . .Developing . . . KC Parks: Kansas City Snake Saturday Parade In Just A Few Hours Kansas City Startup Builder Builder uses sensors to see inside problem-prone properties with Particle Space Passion for building breathes life into a successful startup and the collective ecosystem, said David Biga. "[Builders] are a critical piece to our startup community," said Biga, founder of Kansas City-based SaaS firm Particle Space. "If you don't have people who care to build and offer things to those before you - then why come here? Hottie Talks Better Homes How You Home: Tamara Day invites you in at the Greater Kansas City Home and Lifestyle Show | The Kansas City Star How do you make your space feel like a home? That's the question that the 71st Annual Greater Kansas City Home & Lifestyle Show, presented by the Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City, wants to help you answer. With some familiar faces and lots of new ideas, this year's show promises to be fun for the whole family. Lady Tribute To Internets TV Lawrence woman says she was transformed inside and out by KC season of 'Queer Eye' LAWRENCE, KS (KCTV) - The third season of Queer Eye, which was shot in Kansas City, is now streaming on Netflix, and for a woman in Lawrence transformed on the show it was much more than the typical makeover. The Mad Greek restaurant, where Jess Guilbeaux waits tables, became her center stage Friday night. Cable Promo Inspiration Queer Eye's Fab Five Helped One Kansas Man Realize He's 'Worth The Effort' When Joey Greene took a job at the Wildwood Outdoor Education Center in Lacygne, Kansas, he had no idea it would lead him to an appearance on Netflix's hit reality show, "Queer Eye." Greene lived a simplified life in a deteriorating RV, even though the summer camp job provided a cabin. Kansas City Kangaroos Skate Front Office Insight Kansas City Chiefs: Brett Veach Is Making All The Right Moves It all started with the release of two iconic defenders in linebacker Justin Houston and safety Eric Berry. Both were aging veterans who were signed to very expensive, back loaded contracts that were keeping the Kansas City Chiefs from making moves they desperately needed to make. Off-Sides But Content Dee Ford has no hard feelings over his trade out of Kansas City Dee Ford made it clear during his first press conference as a member of the San Francisco 49ers that he holds no grudges towards his former team for trading him, and is instead choosing to focus on what's in the future rather than what happened during his days in Kansas City. Hottieremains one of our all time faves and right now she inspires this quick look at Saturday morning stories that matter.is the song of the day and this is thefor right now . . . Jackson County deputy resigns, under investigation by FBI after incident with ATA rider KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) - The actions of a former Jackson County Sheriff's Office deputy are now under federal investigation following an incident in February with an intoxicated ATA bus rider. The sheriff's office has not identified the deputy but noted that the deputy had resigned from the department. Insiders tell us that the Feds are ALWAYS circling the courthouse . . . Here's the latest update and definitely not the last. Take a look: What do other priests think about St. Ann Catholic School refusing to enroll the child of a same-sex couple? St. Charles Parish website Hundreds are protesting a Prairie Village Catholic school for denying the enrollment of a same-sex couple's child. Signed by nearly 1,000 people, a petition on behalf of the members of St. Ann Catholic School urges leaders of the church to allow the student's admission. A survey of other faith community leaders on the topic of a sordid and confused Catholic story that is only one of many . . . Read more: Kansas City Gentleman Survives By RIGHTFULLY Bothering His Doctors Man treated for 5 years for lung cancer he didn't have finally receives correct diagnosis He recently found out he has a different kind of cancer than his other doctors believed. KC Is Little Iowa Right Now Hilton South? Cyclone fans make their presence known in KC KANSAS CITY, Mo. - You may notice them for four days every March. Some hang out at Kelly's in Westport. Many stop at Power and Light for a beer. But all come to cheer on their Iowa State Cyclones. Year after year after year, for 10 straight years, thousands of Iowa State fans converge on downtown for the Big 12 Tournament. Helping Hand For KCMO Fam Family of eight looking for hope after fire destroys home KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Quita Currington and her seven children have called 2721 Cleveland Ave. home for the last year. Within minutes Friday, that home was consumed in flames. "Everything is destroyed," Currington said. "We have nothing. We have no shoes. Everything is gone." Rock Chalk School Cash Fight Now Kansas GOP's tax bill could undercut school funding it backs TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) - Republican legislators in Kansas helped advance Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly's plan to boost funding for public schools Thursday before sending her an income tax relief bill that could make it harder for the state to sustain the new spending. Show-Me Agenda On Pause Missouri Lawmakers Go On Spring Break With Fights Over Abortion, Transportation And Finances Ahead As the Missouri General Assembly hits its week-long spring break, lawmakers are mulling over what they've accomplished so far - and bracing for an array of items that haven't reached the legislative finish line. While lawmakers in both the House and Senate have been able to tackle issues that have historically stalled, such as curtailing the low-income housing tax-credit program, priorities that Gov. Golden Ghetto Vs. Doggies Concerns over barking dogs drives opposition to OP day care OVERLAND PARK, Kan. - Future plans for a handful of vacant stores at an Overland Park, Kansas strip mall near 76th Street and Metcalf Avenue have neighbors expressing concern. The Two Dogs and a Cat day care plans to take the vacant stores, but residents are hoping the Overland Park City Council vote to decline the project. KC Hottie B-Ball Coach HERO!!! KC woman to be honored for coach youth basketball The Big 12 Tournament will honor Sarah Castle as a Phillips 66 Live to the Full hero. It's the weekend and so news about pop culture and panties is first and foremost on our mind right now. Checkit:Closer to home, here are the news links we're watching . . .And this is thefor right now . . . Unlike the Divo, a car thats going to be built in 40 units, the La Voiture Noire will remain unique. This vehicle was created specifically for a Bugatti enthusiast thats "fascinated by the Atlantic," a coupe that the French firm built in the 1930s. Despite the unique bodywork and detailing, the La Voiture Noir remains a standard Chiron under the hood, so performance is similar to the vehicle it is based on. The Bugatti La Voiture Noire is a one-off supercar based on the Chiron. Unveiled at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, it joins the Divo as a derivative from the already famous Chiron hypercar. The La Voiture Noire is a modern reinterpretation of the Type 57 SC Atlantic from the 1930s and was built to celebrate Bugattis 110th anniversary. Only one was made and sold for more than $12 million before taxes. La Voiture Noire History The original car was produced back in 1936 Although it may seem like "la voiture noire" was just invented by Bugattis PR team so it can have a fancy name to wave around, it actually dates back to the Atlantic from the 1930s. A version of the Type 57, the Atlantic is actually a generic name given to a run of five vehicles that were called either Aerolithe, Aero Coupe, and Atlantic Coupe, while also featuring 57 S or 57 SC badges. It all started with the Aerolithe prototype of 1935 and continued with four production models finished in 1936 and 1938. Each of them were created individually for specific customers and had different details. Three or them are still in existence, but the fourth car disappeared before the German invasion of Alsace during World War II and its nowhere to be found, despite 80 years of efforts to uncover it. The La Voiture Noire vanished in 1941 The missing car bears chassis number 57453 and its the second Atlantic built. Its known as the La Voiture Noire, from which the modern supercar draws its name, which translates to The Black Car. Finished in 1936 and showcases at auto shows in 1973, it was driven by Jean Bugatti himself for some time and then given to Bugatti race driver Robert Benoist for winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in 1937. Benoit gave it to another driver a few months later and the car made it back to Bugatti in 1939. The La Voiture Noire remained with the factory until 1941, when it was lost after being placed on a list of cars that were sent to Bordeaux during the French exodus. That was the last mention about it, making the La Voiture Noire one of the most mysterious vehicle disappearances and an enigma that enthusiasts have been struggling to solve for 80 years. 2019 Bugatti La Voiture Exterior All-new design Based on Divo Aggressive front bumper Central fin Six exhaust pipes Carbon-fiber body The windscreen seems to flow seamlessly into the windows at the sides, which makes the glasshouse look like the visor on a helmet Although its based on the Chiron, just like the Divo, the La Voiture Noire boasts a unique exterior. The supercar still features Bugattis iconic horseshoe grille, but almost everything else is different or loosely based on the Divo. Needless to say, both the splitter and the bumper vents are similar to the Divos, but both have a more aggressive design. Its like Bugatti revised the aerodynamics for this model, but theres no specific info on that. The headlamps are also new. Not only larger than the Divos, but they also have a new LED pattern that looks as if its made from diamonds. The front hood misses the vents we say on the Divo, and the louvers on top of the front fenders were removed as well. The vertical windshield wipers simulate the Atlantic's split-window design A cool feature here is that the windscreen seems to flow seamlessly into the windows at the sides, which makes the glasshouse look like the visor on a helmet. Two features that remind me of the Type 57 Atlantic surface here: the wipers that rest vertically at the center of the windscreen and the fin on the roof. The former simulates the Atlantics split-window design, while the latter replicates the Type 57s central fin that kept the two-piece body together. Because the original Atlantic prototype was made form elektron alloy, which exploded during welding, Bugatti used rivets to keep the body together through a central fin. Production models were made from aluminum, but Bugatti retained the fin, which became a trademark design feature of the Atlantic. Bugatti made notable changes to the cars profile too. Compared to the Divo, the La Voiture Noire has a more angular roofline, a notable departure from the Chirons C-shaped trademark design, new side skirts, and less aggressive aero elements on the fenders. The wheels are particularly striking thanks to their two-tone design and the fact that the silver paint on the five spokes extends onto the tires. The big diffuser that incorporates four vertical fins and no fewer than six exhaust pipes The reshaped cabin and side skirts also make the car look a bit longer. Unlike the Chiron and the Divo, which look like full-fledged hypercars, the La Voiture Noire looks a bit like a grand tourer. Oh, it also looks like a squashed Chevrolet Corvette. The cars rear fascia is also unique. Although it doesnt have the Divos race-inspired wing and vertical fin, its just as aggressive. Responsible for the menacing look is the big diffuser that incorporates four vertical fins and no fewer than six exhaust pipes. This layout is also a tribute to the Atlantic, as is the fin that descends from the roof toward the deck lid. The arched engine hood also simulates the boat-tail design of the Atlantic. The fascia is pretty much a massive grille with a thin red stripe acting as taillights. This stripe extends from one corner to the other in a wave-like pattern. A big wing-like element sits above the diffuser, splitting the rear fascia into three distinct areas and creating a double-diffuser effect. The carbon-fiber body is painted in gloss black, but the fiber is still visible on some areas, including the diffuser, bumpers, side skirts, and the splitter. 2019 Bugatti La Voiture Interior No photos yet Likely based on Chiron Borrows from the Divo Sporty seats Premium materials Note: Bugatti Divo interior pictured here. It's safe to assume that the La Voiture Noire features the Divo's race-inspired seats Bugatti had nothing to say about the La Voiture Noires interior and didnt publish any photos. We didnt manage to get inside the car at 2019 the Geneva Motor Show either, so we dont know whats going on in the cabin. However, it should be heavily based on the Chiron. Bugatti did the same with the Divo, and Im pretty sure that this supercar has a similar cabin. After all, every Chiron is highly customizable, so the owner had access to a wide range of options. Its difficult to say what might hide behind the doors, but given that the guy who ordered this car is a big fan of the old Atlantic, the interior could draw inspiration from the iconic coupe. My guess is that the owner went for either an all-black leather interior or a combo that combines black and brown, just like the only two black-painted Atlantics had. Note: Bugatti Divo interior pictured here. This car should also lack the stowage compartments from the center console and the door panels But beyond what finishing options the owner might have selected, its safe to assume that the La Voiture Noire features the same race-inspired seats, clean dashboard design, and wide center console. As a reminder, the Divo has sportier seats that offer greater lateral support. The flat-bottom steering wheel should also include Alcantara inserts for better grip and larger shift paddles. If its indeed based on the Divo, this car should also lack the stowage compartments from the center console and the door panels. Bugatti removed them to save weight, a reason why the insulation material is also thinner. 2019 Bugatti La Voiture Drivetrain Same as the Chiron 8.0-liter W-16 1,497 horsepower 1,180 pound-feet 0 to 60 in 2.5 seconds Top speed at 236 mph The 8.0-liter W-16 engine that cranks out an amazing 1,497 horsepower and 1,180 pound-feet of torque The La Voiture Noire is a standard Chiron under the hood. While it may sound a bit disappointing, we must not forget that power comes from a massive, 8.0-liter W-16 engine that cranks out an amazing 1,497 horsepower and 1,180 pound-feet of torque. Compare this to the Type 57s rating of only 135 horsepower and youll quickly understand what Bugatti has been up to since the 1930s. Its not the most powerful supercar you can buy though. The new Koegnisegg Jesko can deliver 1,578 horsepower on E85 biofuel, while the SSC Tuatara is rated at an astonishing 1,750 horsepower using the same type of fuel. Theres no word on performance, but its safe to say that the La Voiture Noire is just as quick as the Chiron and Divo. Specifically, it needs around 2.5 seconds to hit 60 mph from a standing start. Because its likely based on the Divo, top speed is probably limited to 236 mph, a 25-mph decrease compared to the Chiron. The La Voiture Noire notably heavier than most modern hypercars But despite being slower, the La Voiture Noire should be quicker than the Chiron on the race. Again, this is mostly because its based on the Divo. According to Bugatti, the Divo lapped the Nardo track eight seconds quicker than the Chiron, an improvement that comes from the cars improved cornering dynamics, extra downforce, and more aerodynamic body. Granted, the La Voiture Noire isnt as aero-efficient as the Divo, but it should be more aerodynamic than the Chiron and win a track battle against the car it is based on. Unfortunately, the La Voiture Noire is just as heavy as its siblings. The Divo is the lightest version of the Chiron yet at around 4,300 pounds and this coupe shouldnt be lighter than that. This makes the La Voiture Noire notably heavier than most hypercars, which usually tip the scales between 2,700 to 3,300 pounds. 2019 Bugatti La Voiture specifications Engine W16 8.0 liters Power 1,479 hp @ 6,700 rpm Torque 1,180 lb-ft @ 2,000 - 6,000 rpm 0 to 60 mph 2.4 seconds Top Speed 260 mph (est.) 2019 Bugatti La Voiture Pricing The La Voiture Noire is a one-off, and the French firm wont build another one like it. The unique status explains why Bugatti sold this car for a whopping 11 million before taxes. This converts to around $12.4 million as of March 2019, but word has it the owner actually paid around $18.9 million after taxes. This makes the La Voiture Noire the most expensive new car of all time, exceeding the value of the Pagani Zonda HP Barchetta ($17.5 million) and the Rolls-Royce Sweptail ($13 million). Thats three times more than the Divo and six times more than the Chiron. Crazy is an understatement here! 2019 Bugatti La Voiture Competition SSC is one of Bugattis main rivals since 2007 when the Ultimate Aero stole the world speed record for production cars from the Veyron. In 2010, Bugatti recaptured the flag with the Veyron Super Sport, and SSC disappeared as it began working on the Tuatara. Eight years later, in 2018, the Tuatara made its debut in production form. Set to go on sale in 2019, the Tuatara is significantly lighter at 2,750 pounds and features a twin-turbo, 5.9-liter V-8 engine. The mill reportedly cranks out a whopping 1,750 horsepower when using E85 fuel, and it should be able to hit 60 mph in less than 2.5 seconds. At the same time, SS claims that its top speed will exceed 300 mph, a massive improvement over the La Voiture Noire. SSC will probably ask around $2 million for each of the 100 examples set to be built. Read our full review on the 2019 SSC Tuatara The Jesko is Koenigseggs replacement for the Agera, and it was unveiled at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. Although it shares some styling cues with its predecessor, the Jesko rides on a new platform and includes many new technologies. Its smart steering wheel features a couple of small touchscreen with haptic controls, while the transmission is a new nine-speed unit with multiple clutches that allow you to change in any gear without losing momentum. Under the Jeskos hood lurks a revised version of the companys twin-turbo, 5.0-liter V-8 engine. The unit features the worlds lightest production crankshaft and generates 1,262 horsepower on standard gasoline and up to 1,578 horses on E85 biofuel. Thats 99 horsepower more than the La Voiture Noire, but the Jeskos 738-pound-foot rating falls behind by 442 pound-feet. The Jesko could hit 300 mph according to Koenigsegg so we might see a record attempt really soon. Read our full review on the 2020 Koenigsegg Jesko Final Thoughts As a unique and very expensive car, the Bugatti La Voiture Noire is the kind of vehicle we might never get to see on public roads. Its unveiling in Geneva will probably remain its only public outing in front of a big crowd, as these cars are usually displayed at select, exclusive events. Besides, given how much it paid for it, the owner will probably want to keep it in a safe garage as much as possible. The big question here is, can Bugatti justify the massive sticker? Well, this car stands as a solid confirmation that it can. We live in an era when enthusiasts are willing to pay millions of dollars for a unique vehicle and automakers like Bugatti will keep making them. The La voiture Noire is probably just one of many Chiron-based one-offs to follow. Love it Unique design Pays tribute to the Atlantic Massive power Leave it You cant buy it You cant even see it! Insane price tag Further Reading Unique Bugatti La Voiture Noire Pays Tribute to the iconic Atlantic in Geneva Read our full review on the 2018 Bugatti Chiron. Read our full review on the 2018 Bugatti Chiron Sport. Read our full review on the 2019 Bugatti Divo. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Bathinda, March 15 The two-day International Conference on Intelligent Machines started at the Baba Farid College of Engineering and Technology in collaboration with Springer, a global publishing company, today. The conference is aimed at a multi-disciplinary balance between research advancements in theories and methods associated with artificial intelligence, internet of things (IoT) and robotics. Dr PK Khosla, executive director, C-DAC, Mohali, was the chief guest at the inaugural function of the conference while Dr Valentina E Balas, professor, Automation and Applied Informatics, University of Arad Romania, was the guest of honour. The keynote speakers were Dr Narendra Chaudhari, professor (HAG), Computer Science and Engineering, IIT, Indore. Dr Pardeep Kaura, deputy director, academics, BFGI, welcomed all renowned guests and dignitaries to the event and said the BFGI was working aggressively on research and innovation. He said the aim of the conference was to give a boost to researchers, engineers and practitioners who were interested in theory and applications under artificial intelligence. Dr Chaudhari shared his views on IT revolution in the world and said India was leading in the field of information technology and discussed about how the IoT has changed our lives. He also discussed challenges and limitations of the IT revolution. Dr Mamta Mittal, associate professor, GB Panth, Government Engineering College, New Delhi, elaborated intelligent machines. She also talked about 3 Ls look, listen and learn and motivated researchers to sharpen knowledge, skill and ideas. During the inaugural function of the conference, a book on collection of research papers of the conference was released by the dignitaries. Later, the BFGI signed seven MOUs with the University of Arad, Romania, Sportking Industries, Bathinda, Multi-Melt Industries, Rampura Phul, Council of Engineers and Valuers, Jalandhar, Enovation Lab LLP, Chandigarh, Elysian Corporation, Mohali, and Stelco Industries Limited, Rampura Phul. Six More MoUs will be signed during the valedictory function of the conference. Over 20 international and 600 students will be participating in the conference. laxmi@tribune.com Vijay C Roy Tribune News Service Chandigarh, March 15 With over 60% of North Indias population active on social media, candidates contesting upcoming General Election are likely to spend nearly 80% of their advertisement budget on the social media campaigns. According to poll campaign managers, contestants are likely to spend anywhere between Rs 5 lakh and Rs 1 crore on the social media. This will be in addition to political parties spend on advertisements in print and social media. As per the Election Commission guidelines, a candidate can spend up to Rs 70 lakh on poll expenses in bigger states and up to Rs 54 lakh in smaller states and UTs. In 2014 General Election, around 900 candidates from North India and 8,200 from across the country contested the elections. The budget earmarked to influence the voters through social media has turned out to be an opportunity for political digital campaign managers, digital advertising firms, social media influencers and public relation firms dealing in social media. According to experts, an exponential increase in the internet penetration through smartphones has brought more people on the social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Google and YouTube. In 2014 General Election, the role played by the social media was limited. But now the dynamics has changed significantly. In the recently held assembly elections in three states, social media had played a crucial role. Going by the trend, candidates across the party lines as well as Independents are likely to spend 80% of their advertisement budget on the social meda, said DesignBoxed founder Naresh Arora. The Mohali-based firm is a digital campaign management firm and handles multiple political campaigns. Experts said advertisement spend on the social media is likely to touch Rs 5,000 crore nationally as compared to Rs 250 crore spent in 2014. Social media became a popular mode of campaign in 2014 elections when Prime Minister Narendra Modi dominated the conversation. This time around, every candidate appears to be catching up the trend, said Delhi-based social media expert on the condition of anonymity. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Chandigarh, March 15 The two-day national convention-cum-reunion of the War Decorated India (WDI) began at Chandimandir Military Station today. Gallantry award recipients from various parts of the country and next of kin of deceased war heroes attended the event. Tributes were paid to the recently departed members of the association and war widows were honoured on the occasion. The election of the association president, nomination of executive committee members and issues relating to gallantry awardees and their welfare were part of the agenda. As tales of heroism flowed, old camaraderie was reignited. The WDI was set up in 1991 to serve as a platform for strengthening camaraderie among the war heroes, further their cause and to provide them any assistance in times of need. Its members consist of recipients of gallantry awards won in the face of the enemy that include the Victoria Cross and Military Cross of the pre-Independence era and the Param Vir Chakra (PVC), Maha Vir Chakra and Vir Chakra, which were instituted post-Independence. Chief of Staff, Western Command, Lt Gen PN Bali, addressed the gathering. He said the serving military men drew inspiration from the bravehearts who fought valiantly for the motherland and in the process many had laid down their lives. The convention is held once in four years. The event this time was relatively a low-key affair with lesser number of participants as compared with past occasions as the number of war heroes has been dwindling over the years. Among the Victoria Cross awardees, relatives of the Late Nb Sub Nand Singh of the Sikh Regiment, Late Sub Ram Sarup Singh of the Punjab Regiment and Late Badlu Singh of the Jat Lancers were felicitated. Dhano Devi, wife of Late Col Hoshiar Singh of the Grenadiers and daughter of Late Sub Joginder Singh of the Sikh Regiment, both of whom were decorated with the Param Vir Chakra, the nations highest gallantry award, was also honoured. Col Hoshiar Singh was awarded the PVC for his actions while establishing a bridgehead across the Basantar river and repulsing enemy attacks in the Shakargarh Sector during the 1971 Indo-Pak War, while Sub Joginder Singh had led his troops in the face of the enemy despite being heavily outnumbered and defended his post near Bum La in the north-east until he was wounded and captured during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. Sub Nand Singhs son, Ripu Daman, who was attending the convention for the first time, pointed out that the names of Indian Victoria Cross recipients did not find a place in the newly constructed National War Memorial in the Capital. Among those present was Lt Col (Dr) Virendra Sahi, a Vir Chakra recipient form the Battle of Laleali in the Chhamb Sector in December 1971. He had killed a Pakistani officer, who was physically much larger, in hand-to-hand combat after his weapon had jammed. Pakistani troops under the command of a major were able to gain a foothold on the forward tip of the Laleali post that resulted in a hand-to-hand combat between Indian and Pakistani soldiers. Sahi, who was also then a Major commanding an infantry company, had sent a handwritten citation to Pakistan, detailing his opponents actions. Four Egyptians were among those killed Egypts prosecutor-general has ordered an Egyptian investigation into the mass shootings at two New Zealand mosques on Friday, which killed 49 people, among them four Egyptians. In a statement on Saturday, the countrys chief prosecutor Nabil Sadek said he had ordered his international cooperation department prepare a memo to be sent to their New Zealand counterparts, to provide an official copy of Cairos plan for an investigation. Cairo is also demanding forensics reports and CCTV footage be retrieved from the site of the attack. The four Egyptian victims, all male, were named by the Egyptian Ambassador to New Zealand Tariq Al-Wasimi as Munir Suleiman (68 years old), Ahmad Jamal al-Din Abdul-Rahman (also 68), Ashraf Morsi, and Ashraf Al-Masri. The ages of the latter two victims were not stated. Forty-nine people were killed and twenty injured after gunmen opened fire at the two mosques during Friday prayers. The New Zealand authorities described it as a terrorist attack. A suspect appeared in court on Saturday morning charged with murder. Search Keywords: Short link: editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Chandigarh, March 15 Finding them guilty of violating the code of conduct, the Election Commission (EC) has issued a warning to city BJP president Sanjay Tandon and six councillors of the party for holding political meetings at community centres. Sources said besides issuing the warning, the commission had decided to recover the expenditure incurred on holding the functions. Directions have been issued to the Municipal Corporation to ensure that no leader misuses community centres for political meetings. The EC issued the order after examining the reply to the show-cause notice issued to them by it earlier. On Wednesday, the commission had issued a show-cause notice to Tandon and six party councillors Arun Sood, Ravi Kant Sharma, Shakti Prakash Devshali, Bharat Kumar, Haji Mohammad Khurshid Ali and Satprakash Aggarwal and three sub-divisional engineers for holding political meetings at the municipal corporation-run community centres at Sector 29, 37 and Ram Darbar. However, the councillors said the meetings were held as per the bylaws of the community centres and no banners, posters and political slogans were used during the functions. Arun Sood, a councillor, said area councillors could hold meetings with residents as per the law and these could not be interpreted as political meetings. In their reply, the councillors claimed that they did not organise any political meetings at the community centres. An officer of the department concerned said the expenditure would be added to the partys campaign and recovery would be made as per the law. The Municipal Corporation has already issued formal orders of suspension to six MC employees for dereliction of duty. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Chandigarh, March 15 A sanitation worker of the MC was nabbed by the UT Vigilance Department while allegedly taking a bribe of Rs 10,000 today. Sources said the department had received a complaint that a sanitation worker, Tej Pal, employed with the public health wing of the MC, was demanding a bribe of Rs 50,000 for providing a job of sanitation worker to the complainants son. Vigilance sleuths said the complainant was asked to pay the first instalment of Rs 10,000. Tej Pal asked the complainant to come to his house in Sector 28 to hand over the money, a Vigilance official said. The Vigilance laid a trap and nabbed the suspect while taking a bribe of Rs 10,000. A case under the Prevention of Corruption Act has been registered against him at the Vigilance police station, Sector 9. Vappala Balachandran Vappala Balachandran Former Special Secy, Cabinet Secretariat THE discordant national security discourse after the Pulwama and Balakot incidents is denigrating our armed forces. Widespread exultation over the achievements of our Air Force in Balakot, its heroic resistance to Pakistans air aggression and the shooting down of their F-16 have been drowned out by a cacophony of opposing dialectics, including controversies triggered by the ruling party. The first instance was on March 1 when BJP MP Subramanian Swamy tweeted that just seven persons had conceptualised the Balakot bombing. His list did not include Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. This made people wonder how our armed forces could operate without their ministers knowledge. Then came BJP president Amit Shahs claim during an election rally that over 250 terrorists were killed in the Balakot airstrikes. He criticised the opposition parties for demanding proof of the deaths. This provoked the Congress to say that the BJP was politicising the armed forces. This and other interventions forced the Air Force Chief to draw the red line: Government counts casualties, not us. By implication, he conveyed that the Air Force was given targets, which they hit successfully. We hit the target otherwise why would they (Pakistan) have responded? Since then, all efforts of BJP spokespersons have been to justify the remarks of their president by quoting different sources, named or unnamed. No official figures have been released by the government so far. Simultaneously, the foreign media has been relentless in reporting the Pakistani version that no damage was caused. The opposition parties also complained that the Prime Minister was revealing details during public meetings, not officially. That did not prevent leaks from secret operational intelligence, collected by our National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO), from appearing in the media. It was claimed that the NTRO had detected 300 active mobile phones in Balakot area before the airstrikes. No explanation for why the media was given this secret information unofficially was forthcoming. Simultaneously, an investigation by a leading Indian weekly found that residents of Balakot and police officials in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) were admitting that the IAF strikes had resulted in military casualties too, not just destruction of terror infrastructure and militants. If this is so, why is the government reluctant to reveal these details, which would only strengthen the official version? It is true that Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh had indirectly confirmed the NTRO story when confronted by the media during a BSF function on March 5: Were these mobile phones used by the trees? Will you not believe the NTRO also? He added that the number of dead at the Jaish training camp would be known today or tomorrow. Still, no official account was published. At times, the BJPs dialogue resembled egregious politics descending to the street level when ministers spoke about the dissenters. On March 6, Minister of State for External Affairs and former Army Chief VK Singh called critics and journalists as jonk (leeches). Such remarks made the Opposition hit back. On March 11, National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah made a frontal charge that the airstrikes were aimed at winning the Lok Sabha elections. The next day, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged that the Centre was stretching the elections till May-end for another strike in April. Simultaneously, a Central investigating agency appears to be pitting the entire Muslim population in the Valley against New Delhi. The National Investigation Agencys (NIAs) recent summons to Hurriyat Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq to come to New Delhi have united all 20 disparate Muslim religious groups behind him as he represents Srinagars Grand Mosque, a 300-year-old institution. Claims have been made that the Balakot airstrikes were intended to be a strategic step of escalation to deliver a strong message and isolate Pakistan. However, any such strategic step has to be followed by other measures by other countries to debar Pakistan from every possible venue. Unfortunately, nothing concrete has been achieved so far. As regards compelling Pakistan to give up its support to terrorists, all we could earn so far is a message from US National Security Adviser (NSA) John Bolton about his talk with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, who had assured to deal firmly with terrorist groups operating from the country. To me, the Balakot strikes were as spectacular as the US bombing of Libya on April 15, 1986. Both conveyed the message, but did not have any strategic impact on the target country. Former CIA Director Robert Gates, who was then President Ronald Reagans Deputy National Security Adviser, writes in his memoirs From the Shadows that there was no consensus in the National Security Council (NSC) on the bombing, although the Reagan administration was obsessed with Gaddafi from 1981. Secretary of State George P Shultz was clearly against it. Gaddafi was a bigger threat to world peace than even Pakistan, having supplied munitions to the Provisional Irish Republican Army. The immediate provocation was Gaddafis bomb attack on a Berlin discotheque patronised by American troops on April 5, 1986, killing 2 Americans, besides a missile attack on a US Air Force plane in the Gulf of Sidra on March 24, 1986. Seymour Hersh, in his New York Times piece Target Qaddafi (February 22, 1987), claims that the entire planning was done by a clandestine group in the NSC led by Col Oliver North, keeping senior NSC members, including Shultz, in the dark. (Do we see a parallel here if we were to believe Subramanian Swamy?) North came to grief only in 1988 for a similar illegal intervention in the 1987 Iran-Contra Affair. Did the bombing stop Gaddafi in his tracks? No, he executed a much bigger attack by planting a bomb on Pan Am Frankfurt-Detroit Flight 103, killing 270 persons, on December 21, 1988. Gaddafi was killed over two decades later on October 20, 2011, during the Libyan Civil War. Pravin Sawhney Pravin Sawhney Strategic Affairs Expert That religious sentiments will always triumph over policy prejudice is evident from the just-concluded first round of talks on the Kartarpur corridor. The joint statement issued after the talks said both sides had a detailed and constructive discussion, which will be followed up in the second round at Wagah, where issues flagged by India are likely to be addressed. These include the number and nature of pilgrims per day. India wants that Overseas Citizens of India should also be able to use the corridor. These are small issues, and it is unlikely that under the present circumstances, Pakistan would make these sticking points, especially when it has completely usurped the peace narrative in the subcontinent, despite the recent history of Pulwama attack. As far as Indias larger concern regarding Pakistan misusing this opportunity to peddle Khalistani propaganda goes, this is in the realm of perception. Frankly, India cannot have any control over this. What happens inside Kartarpur, what kind of people will come there and who will interact with whom is something India will just have to accept for the larger issue of deferring to the long-pending request of the Sikhs. From Indias perspective, the niggling question is why must Pakistan be so amenable on the Kartarpur corridor? And why did the Pakistan army chief mention this to the visiting Indian politician Navjot Singh Sidhu? After all, Sidhu had gone to Islamabad on the invitation of his long-standing friend PM Imran Khan. Wouldnt it have been more natural for the friend to communicate this? These questions betray a total lack of understanding of how the Pakistan government a first-ever military-political joint venture has been repositioning itself in the region as a reasonable and responsible power committed to human values. We tend to laugh at this, because our policy-making is held captive by the twin forces of deep-rooted prejudice and manufactured public opinion. Sample the responses from both sides after the first round of talks. An anonymous Indian source told the media that it was disappointed by Pakistans recalcitrant attitude during the talks. Whereas, Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood told me, Since both governments have shown deference to the wishes of the people, this (corridor) has the potential of transformational effect. He accepted that there was lack of trust between the two sides, but insisted that a number of positives might help mitigate it. According to him, The release of the Indian pilot, resumption of Samjhauta Express train, return of the cross-LoC trade, weekly contact between the two directors general of military operations, return of the high commissioners to work, and the Kartarpur talks are good for the relationship and people-to-people contact. Pakistans positivity does not mean that it is anxious for an early meaningful resumption of talks with India. It knows this will not be immediately possible with even the next dispensation in Delhi, which, if different, would need time to re-channel the dislike which has currently shaped the public opinion. Given this, Pakistan could well be working for outside mediation, which India has thus far steadfastly refused, on Kashmir. The starting point for Pakistan is the raising of its geopolitical profile, pivoted on three milestones: CPEC announced in 2013 as the flagship of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI); Pakistans entry into the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in 2017 as a member state; and the installation of the Imran Khan government in 2018 with clearly defined division of work between Islamabad and the general headquarters, Rawalpindi. With these, Pakistans importance for the US, China and Russia, three geo-strategic nations with capability, capacity and political will to influence events far away, has increased exponentially. China needs Pakistan for (a) the success of BRI, (b) entry into the Muslim world by CPEC extensions to Afghanistan, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Central Asian republics, and (c) favourable opinion-building in Indias neighbourhood comprising Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, the Maldives and so on, which would ease Chinas entry into SAARC. In return, China, through its official newspaper, The Global Times, recently said Chinas primary aim in the region is to develop poor and backward Kashmir. The US needs Pakistan for (a) extrication of its troops from Afghanistan, (b) ensuring that its N-weapons are not accessible to non-state actors, and (c) to maintain some leverage in the subcontinent, which it has assessed as a nuclear flash point. Russias interest in Pakistan, which started in 2001, has become prominent. It believes that by strengthening Pakistans counter-terror capabilities it can, through proxy, once again have a role in the post-US Afghan dispensation. Moreover, the trio of Russia, China and Pakistan is fast emerging as an alternative to US-led security matrix in the Indo-Pacific region. This has been helped by the withdrawal of the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership without a good substitute which caters to both security and prosperity of regional nation states. This explains Russias trade cooperation with Pakistan, with a promise of direct arms trade. While this will be a slow process, Pakistan is likely to get Russian military technology through China. Unfortunately, India remains oblivious to these dynamics. The predominant narrative of Indian policy-makers, analysts and media is that Pakistan is a failing state, one that is deeply in debt and a hotbed of terrorists. For decades, we have been waiting for Pakistan to implode, but it has been refusing to oblige us. Coming back to the Kartarpur corridor, one of the strongest elements of Pakistans soft power is its human resource polite, humble and apparently in love with Indians. As Sikh pilgrims visit Kartarpur, Pakistan is likely to unleash this charm on them, gradually building the constituency for meaningful talks with India. sanjiv@tribunemail.com Exactly a month after the Pulwama massacre, India and Pakistan have agreed to work towards an expeditious launch of the Kartarpur corridor. The terror attack and its aftermath had threatened to derail the project, but the two countries have commendably delinked it from the ongoing hostilities for the sake of a pious occasion the upcoming 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak. India has stuck to its oft-quoted stand that talks and terror cannot go hand in hand, making it clear to the Pakistani delegates that the Attari meeting should not be seen as a resumption of bilateral dialogue. Pakistan had initially stated that the proposed corridor would be opened only for Sikh devotees from India, a decision that had exposed the Pak ploy as Sikh places of worship are revered and frequented by Hindus as well. Quick to see through the divisive agenda, India has finally prevailed upon Pakistan to grant access to all Indian citizens, irrespective of their religion. In another positive move on the diplomatic front, India has managed to make the neighbour give the assurance that it would insulate Kartarpur Sahib pilgrims from Khalistani (and anti-India) propaganda. India and the world will watch closely whether Pakistan walks the talk on this contentious matter. Pakistan has repeatedly demonstrated a soft spot for pro-Khalistan terrorists and campaigners. Incidentally, a day before the Attari talks, PM Imran Khan was reported to have met a controversial Sikh leader, who is considered to be a close aide of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar. Such developments should make India wary of Pakistans intentions. Misuse of the corridor for the radicalisation of devotees or other nefarious designs will defeat its purpose. The possibility that the passage could be used to push in infiltrators might be slim, considering the high security expected all along the route, but its not entirely ruled out. The focus should remain on facilitating hassle-free access to the shrine associated with the first Sikh Guru. Mutual trust is a must to ensure that the project sees the light of day. sanjiv@tribunemail.com Already burdened by the pressure of board exams, thousands of Class VIII students in nearly 50 per cent of the centres across Punjab were in for some more anxiety as they shockingly received the Punjabi question paper on the day that was scheduled for the social studies test. Mercifully, the jolt was soon contained. Thanks to the presence of mind of the invigilators and teachers on duty, within an hour, the children were writing the exam for the subject that they had come prepared for. The relief came as the correct question paper was procured in no time via WhatsApp or email from other centres; copies were printed and distributed, or the paper was written on the blackboard. While technology helped them save the day, it does not absolve the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) Punjab the agency responsible for conducting the Class VIII exams of its duty to ensure that no such goof-ups occur. It turns out that a private vendor responsible for printing the question paper committed the blunder of inserting the Punjabi paper in envelopes marked social studies because of lack of proficiency in the Punjabi language. The SCERT would do well to blacklist the vendor. At the same time, it is outrageous that knowledge of the language was not one of the criteria for the selection of people being entrusted with this job; a job whose importance cannot be emphasised enough as it has a direct bearing on the moulding of human resource and future citizenry. The state education department needs to plug all loopholes so that it does not fail schoolchildren with embarrassing gaffes. In an almost annual rite, some faux pas or the other rears its head during school exams, betraying a lackadaisical approach of the authorities concerned. They must view school education as a critical strategic investment. Unless given the status of a vital infrastructure project, the appallingly low levels of learning achieved by children every year and goof-ups are likely to remain the order of the day. editorial@tribune.com Dr Rinky Kapoor Holi is a festival of fun and frolic. A festival celebrated with plenty of colours and zeal, the tradition is to wish a happy Holi by smearing or sprinkling colours each other. Till a few decades ago the Holi colours were derived from natural sources like dry or fresh flowers and leaves, etc. Even sandalwood paste, saffron, turmeric, henna and fullers earth were also used to play Holi. However, with changing times and quick-fix solutions came industrial colours that rapidly replaced the natural ones as these were cheaper options available easily. These colours are inexpensive dyes made using various chemical processes and include a variety of harmful compounds such as malachite green, auramine, methyl violet, copper sulphate, aluminium bromide, prussian blue and cobalt nitrate. Mixed with starch or wheat flour and mica dust, the colours are disastrous for the skin as these increase chances of allergies and infections even in otherwise healthy skin textures. As a result, Holi can cause various skin and other allergies and inflammation. These problems characteristically present themselves during or few days after Holi and the condition is also popularly known as Holi dermatoses. Those who have had allergies in the past, heres a quick lowdown on the harms of using chemical colours, the best cure for the resulting conditions and a guide to keep skin safe and healthy. Symptoms Holi dermatoses can manifest itself in various forms: Itching in eyes and other areas Burning sensation Pain Oozing Scaling Lesions Erosions Blisters Dryness Redness Bumps Acute nail-fold inflammation Abrasions Aggravation of pre-existing dermatoses such as acne, eczema, and paronychia The face is the most commonly affected because this is where the colours are mostly applied. Hands are also commonly affected as again these are most used in mixing and handling of colours. Other common areas include the scalp, forearms, neck and thighs. Rubbing hands vigorously or on the face and scalp to rub in the colours can cause tiny abrasions on the skin leading to infections and inflammations as dermatoses are usually related to the irritant, allergic contact and mechanical factors. Treatment Itching, burning, and other unpleasant sensations or reactions on the skin should be treated immediately. Wash off any colour or paint on the skin instantly with cold water and visit a dermatologist to get the right treatment. Various treatments that the doctor might suggest can include: Application of corticosteroid ointments to the affected areas to reduce the symptoms. Antibiotics and antifungal creams to heal the skin. Soothing ointments to combat dryness. Washing skin with mild pH friendly soaps that do not have any harsh dyes. Oral medicines for severe reactions. Prevention Some precautions observed beforehand can go a long way to prevent the onset and aggravation of such skin conditions. Use organic or natural colours. You can also make some colours at home like by mixing turmeric with some roasted chickpea powder to make gulal along with finely powdered hibiscus flower to get a deep hue of red. For those having a hypersensitive skin, eczemas, psoriasis, and other eczematous skin conditions, it is best to avoid colour contact, at least with chemical colours. Apply coconut oil on your hair and scalp before playing Holi to prevent the colour from blocking the pores. Apply aloe vera gel and oil on your body to create a layer of protection on the skin. Dont forget to cover the ear area. If any kind of colour gets in your eyes, wash them immediately. Dont blink too much to get the colour out of your eyes as it will only cause damage. Use sun screen on the skin to avoid skin damage. For lips, use Vaseline to keep these moisturised throughout. You can apply Vaseline to the ears as well. Apply transparent nail paint on the nails and also on the inside of the nails to prevent the colour from getting inside the skin. Stay hydrated at all times by drinking water and juices regularly. Post-Holi care Once the festivities are over, here are some suggestions for skin care: Rinse face and body with plenty of water. Clean the skin with baby oil. Do not scrub the skin for at least 48 hours after Holi. Use natural ingredients like curd and chickpea flour to exfoliate the skin and cleanse it. After bathing, apply moisturiser liberally all over the body to seal the moisture in. Get your skin treated immediately if you notice anything different. Do not bleach, shave, wax or go for facials or clean-ups for few weeks. Avoid using makeup or anything harsh on your skin for a few days. Let your skin breathe and get back its natural moisture. Follow these simple tips to keep your skin safe and enjoy Holi. The writer is consultant dermatologist, at The Esthetic Clinics & Fortis Hospitals, Mumbai. editorial@tribune.com Kuldeep Chauhan Tribune News Service Shimla, March 15 The CPM has fielded Daleep Kaith, an SFI activist, from Mandi. The party has decided not to contest the other three seats, saying it does not want to split anti-BJP votes in Himachal. But if one sees the past poll trends, the performance of the party has been dismal. In the 2014 general elections, the CPM had fielded Kushal Bhardwaj from Mandi and Jagat Ram from Shimla, but the two could not turn the tables, with the BJP sweeping all four seats. Though the party has been in the poll arena in the state for decades, it had to cut a sorry figure in 2014 when it got just 0. 87 per cent vote share. In what came as a surprise, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), got 2.17 per cent vote share on three seats Hamirpur, Shimla, and Kangra in 2014. Kushal Bhardwaj and Jagat Ram had got 25,389 votes. While Bhardwaj managed to secure 11,434 votes, Jagat Ram polled 13, 955 votes. The party has fielded Daleep Kaith from Mandi, but it has decided not to contest the other three seats, said Rakesh Singha, senior CPM leader and legislator from Theog. Kaith is pinning hopes on trade unions, anganwari workers, youth and students. He is trying to present the CPM as an alternative. We have started the campaign and highlighted the failures of the BJP. The ruling party let the corporate sector benefit by waiving the NPA, but did nothing for farmers, Singha said. The BJP-led government at the Centre has tried to erode the credibility of institutions like the CBI, RBI, police and Army. It has tried to weaken the social fabric by crushing dissent, he said. In 2014, former BJP MP Rajan Sushant was AAPs candidate from Kangra, but he could secure only 24,430 votes against Shanta Kumar, who got 4.51 lakh votes. Chander Kumar of the Congress had got 2.86 lakh votes. Similarly, AAPs Hamirpur candidate Kamal Kanta Batra, mother of Kargil war hero Capt Vikram Batra, had got only 15,400 votes. BJPs Anurag Thakur had retained the seat, defeating his nearest rival Rajinder Rana of the Congress. Subhash Chander, AAP candidate from Shimla, secured 14,233 votes, while the partys Mandi candidate, Jai Chand Thakur, polled 9,343 votes. Maheshwar Singhs Himachal Lokhit Party that supported AAP failed miserably. Poor show in the past In the 2014 general elections, the CPM had fielded Kushal Bhardwaj from Mandi and Jagat Ram from Shimla, but the two could not turn the tables, with the BJP sweeping all four seats. amansharma@tribunemail.com Tribune Web Desk Chandigarh, March 16 A team of National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) recently visited Government Degree College at Shahpur in Kangra district for the purpose of assessment and accreditation. The NAAC peer team consisted of Vasant Shinde, vice-chancellor, Deccan College, Deemed University Pune; Neeta Pandya, MSU Baroda; and D Maria Antony Raj, principal, Sacred Heart College, Tirupattur (TN). The team assessed the college on different criteria like infrastructure, teaching-learning facilities, student progression, governance and management, research activities and best practices of the institution, as categorised by NAAC, college principal Arti Verma said in a statement. The principal added that after grading, the college will be eligible for further RUSA grants. editorial@tribune.com Pratibha Chauhan Tribune News Service Shimla, March 15 Himachal Pradesh has had only three women Lok Sabha MPs since the first election was held in 1952, thereby reflecting the negligible preference given to them in parliamentary polls by political parties in the hill state. Significantly, all the three women Lok Sabha MPs from Himachal belonged to the Congress and had a royal lineage. However, all three Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur, who won from Mandi-Mahasu seat in 1952, Chandresh Kumari, who won from Kangra in 1984, and Pratibha Singh, who won from Mandi in 2004 and 2013 bypoll, emerged victorious mainly due to the influence their families wielded and not on their individual strength. Despite the fact that women constitute 23.35 lakh of the electorate as compared to 24.74 lakh male voters, women have failed to make a mark in the parliamentary polls, primarily because political parties never preferred fielding them. They have only token presence in political arena. Only women who come from established political families were fielded and also won the elections. Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur belonged to the Kapurthala royal family in Punjab and remained Union Health Minister for a span of 10 years. She was an eminent Gandhian and freedom fighter who co founded the All India Womens Conference. Chandresh Kumari, hailing from the Jodhpur royal family in Rajasthan, was married in the Kangra royal family. She has been a member of the Lok Sabha both from Himachal and later from Jodhpur in 2009. She was inducted into the Union Cabinet twice as Minister of State for Tourism in 1984 and later in 2012 as a Cabinet Minister for Cultural Affairs. Pratibha Singh, wife of former chief minister Virbhadra Singh, won from Mandi Lok Sabha seat twice in 2004 and in a bypoll in 2013. Efforts by other women like Kamla Kant Batra, mother of Kargil hero Capt Vikram Batra, who jumped into the poll fray as AAP candidate from Hamirpur in 2014 parliamentary polls, did not fructify. She even forfeited her security deposit. This time also barring the name of Dalhousie MLA Asha Kumari, AICC Secretary who is in the reckoning for being fielded from Kangra Lok Sbha segment, candidature of no other women leader is being considered. As compared to the Lok Sabha, seven women have been elected to the Rajya Sabha from Himachal till date. This includes Lila Devi (1956-62), Mohinder Kaur (1964-67 and 1978-84), Satyavati Dang (1968-74), Usha Malhotra (1980-86), Chandresh Kumari (1996-2000), Viplove Thakur (2006-2012 and 2014 onwards) and Bimla Kashyap (2010-16). Out of them two of them Mohinder Kaur and Viplove Thakur have got two terms in the Upper House of Parliament. At the same time, participation and winning percentage of women in Vidhan Sabha polls in Himachal has been far better than parliamentary polls. Credit Villa Russiz Discovering The Wine-Rich Collio Region: Italy's Best Kept Secret The saying goes that one could travel for their entire life and never see all of Italys beautiful destinations. That saying rings true, yet most travelers stay on the beaten path visiting Florence, Rome, Venice or perhaps one of Italys many islands. Lovers of wine usually pick Tuscany, whose roads in summer months quickly fill with wine hungry tourists buzzing around on their Vespas. In the northeast part of Italy is where the tourism road seems to end after an imaginary line at Venice. But those who choose to explore a bit more beyond will find an entirely new set of unforgettable experiences in the wine rich terroir of Collio. Credit Villa Russiz Collio is Italian for hills and the Strada del Vino or wine road weaves through gorgeous undulating landscapes dotted with medieval villages, verdant plains and stone farmhouses. The region lies in the northeast along the Slovenian border. It is completely Italian but also shares generations of mixed heritage with Austrians, Germans and Slovenians creating a subculture that is as much Mitteleuropa as it is Mediterranean. This is a stunning region with a rich and wonderful culture, epicurean experience, and accommodations; it baffles the mind that it remains relatively unknown to tourists. Credit Vini Pascolo Collio is known to produce some of Italys best white wines due to its ideal growing conditions of long sunny days and mineral-rich soil. The backdrop is the prestigious Julian Alps yet 15 miles away is the Adriatic Sea creating a microclimate ideal for the indigenous varieties of wine for which the region is known. The Collio DOC or Denominazione di Origine Controllata (which signifies that the wine comes from this region), spans over 3500 acres and produces red and sparkling wines but its most well-known for its white wines. The region produces unique and indigenous wine cultivars such as Friulano, Malvasia Istriana, and the Ribolla Gialla. In addition, the Collio region produces some of Italys top Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Pinot Grigio and Pinot Bianco whites as well as red wines, including Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Nero and Merlot. Collio Wine Exporter, Andrea Collenz Friulano wine is the indigenous varietal derived from Sauvignon Vert and known for their fruity aromas of apricot, gooseberry and citrus. Ribolla Gialla is often excessively tart and salty yet with its high acidity makes it an ideal option for sparkling wines with notes of apricot, pear, and tamarind. Malvasia is less widely produced but is known for its intense aromas and floral notes. Because of the distinct and complementary characteristics of these varietals, many of local producers are creating wonderful Collio Bianco blends which are an excellent option when pairing with a savory dish. Other varietals to seek out from the region are the Ramad0lo and Picolit sweet wines which are an excellent option to pair with dessert. One fabulous way to see Collio and its winemakers are with a bespoke vacation itinerary from Visit Collio who are at the ready to set up a most memorable and worry-free adventure. Spring, summer, and fall are all ideal times to visit with warm sunny days, puttering along the winding Strada del Vino on a bright yellow Vespa through the scenic countryside. The roads are never crowded as guests navigate through 400-year-old villages, bucolic landscapes to a welcoming winemaker at the ready to show you his lifes work in his vineyards and an exclusive tour of his steel tanks, the barrel rooms and the cellar. Enoteca di Cormons In the heart of the wine region is the town of Cormons. This is the wine capital of the region and in the towns main piazza is where youll find Enoteca di Cormons which is a cooperative where the 35 of the areas winemakers work together to create a regional brand and promote the Collio DOC. Behind a terrace of sun yellow canvas umbrellas and wine barrels that double as tables lie Enoteca di Cormons which is both a wine shop, wine bar, tasting room and bistro. Their tasting room is where guests can talk to the knowledgeable staff while sampling some of 300 vintages which are by the glass for around two euro. It's truly a wonderful one-stop tasting experience where you can try the wines along with local artisan Montasio cheese and hand-sliced prosciutto. The Enoteca di Cormons is run by the affable Elena Orzan whose passion for wines and Collio is infectious and she is more than happy to recommend or arrange a visit to the wineries as well as the places to nosh along the way. Credit Roncus Theres something about visiting the small family winery that you wont get from a visit to the large commercial wine estate. This is wine 1.0 where lovers of wine can embrace the winemaking tradition by talking with the winemakers who literally put their blood sweat and tears into every harvest. Their firm and calloused handshakes mean that theyve tilled the land, driven the tractors and lifted the harvest baskets. This is exactly what you can expect with a visit to these fascinating family wineries that dot the Collio region. Here are just a few that are more than worthy of your visit. Marco Perco of Roncus Wines Roncus is helmed by Marco Perco where he and his family live in the same home that his forefathers did. Theres not a lot of intervention here, the grapes are grown organically without a long list of chemicals used to treat the grapes and heaven forbid, watering. The philosophy is that the grapes and harvest are what God gives that year and that is just fine for them. Although the production is relatively small with 25 acres under vine., Marco Perco is considered one of the top white wine producers in all of Italy. One sip and youll see why. Roncus produces Ribolla, Malvasia, Pinot Bianco, and Merlot. One bottle that youll want to take home is the Friulano Collio which is a lovely blend of Friulano, Pinot Bianco, and Sauvignon grapes. It is deliciously crisp with a good level of minerality and balanced with notes of citrus and stone fruit. Friulano is the quintessential light, crisp white wine for which the region is known and a must have during your stay. Vini Pascolo In a scenic hamlet of this area is where youll find he small family winery, Pascolo. Pascolo produces a well-regarded range of whites, reds, and sparkling wines. They personally handle the wine production on their 17-acre estate in all aspects from pruning the vines, harvesting and even bottling. Here youll again want to again indulge in their Friulano and Malvasia as well as Sauvignon and Merlot are a bottle worthy of a trip back home as well. Sandro Princic of Doro Princic Doro Princic is another small winemaker producing mainly white wines on 25 acres. The owner, Alessandro (Sandro) Princic, is a wonderfully colorful man and a real salt of the earth type of fellow. In his late sixties, he inherited the family estate from his father who began winemaking before World War II. He lives in the same home and tends these same vines just as his father did before him. Youll want to do a thorough tasting here to fully appreciate the finesse of each wine be it their Sauvignon, Friulano, Pinot Bianco, Malvasia, as well as a well-rounded Merlot. One wine that stands out amongst his range is the Doro Princic Collio Ribolla Gialla which is known for its crisp and refreshing taste and is ideal as an aperitif or for pairing with seafood. Edi Keber and Elena Orzan of Enoteca di Cormons Edi Keber is boisterous and larger than life type of guy who happens to be one of Collios more prominent producers and most ardent advocates. His familys lovely winery and vineyard is spread over 30 acres and is a stones throw from the Slovenian border. Edi and his enologist son, Kristian, have garnered international recognition for their organically produced white wine which is made from the indigenous grapes of the appellation such as the Friulano, Malvasia Istriana and Ribolla Gialla cultivars. They name it simply Collio Bianco and one can expect wines smooth, rich in texture, and layered notes of citrus, gooseberry and spice herbs. Giovanni Dri of Il Roncat Another indigenous grape is Ramandolo from the greater Friuli region which is a sweet and smooth dessert wine from Verduzzo varietal. One of its heralded producers is Il Roncat lead by Giovanni Dri and his daughter Stefania who is positioned to take over the helm. Their stand out is there Ramandolo dessert wines that are golden yellow in color with an intense fruity bouquet. It is not overly sweet, is slightly tannic, and pairs well with fermented cheese, pastry or by themselves at the end of a meal. Additionally, they produce local varieties Picolit, Refosco, Pignolo as well as Merlot, Sauvignon, and Cabernet. They have a lovely cellar door and tasting room where in-the-know wine connoisseurs from Austria, Germany or other parts of Italy, make the trek there take home a case or two to augment their wine cellars. Villa Russiz is a wine estate with a rich 300-year history. Today they make exceptional organic wines on over 100 acres in their vineyard set between steep terraces and rolling hills. The organic wines use minimal intervention and include a range of Friulano, Malvasia, Ribolla Gialla, sparking Cru and Grappa. The grounds are extensive with the vineyards, winery and wine cellars, the Casa Elvine Group Home, Mausoleum and the German Neo-Gothic style. It's an ideal place to spend the afternoon sampling wines, taking a tour and visiting the preserved heritage building. As shared, Villa Russiz is a winery with a purpose in that it is part of a history to take care of disadvantaged minors. Youll buy the wine because it tastes good, but youll also feel good to know that it also goes to a good cause. Collio is an astonishing destination holding endless treasures for oenophiles to explore. Wine-loving travelers to Italy will obviously visit Tuscany, but the true connoisseur seeking to get off the beaten wine trail will head north to Collio. Be that as it may, coming to a region such as Collio can be somewhat intimidating to the novice. Here many speak broken English and knowing where to go, what to do, or how to get there can be a challenge. Enter Visit Collio, this group of travel professionals has put together a number of tours and can arrange everything for guests to get the most out of their visit to this fascinating region. They are also able to tailor what guests would like to do into a package of day tours or the end to end including meals and accommodations. For your next visit to a wine-centric vacation consider Collio in northern Italy. Its that type of place that not everyone has already been to and offers a delicious experience with amazing wines, winery experiences as well as offers a rich culture, culinary experiences and great places to stay. Your visit to Collio is sure to leave guests with fantastic memories that will long be cherished after the luggage has been unpacked back home. rchopra@tribunemail.com Banihal/Jammu, March 16 Eleven people, including four women and five children, were killed and four others injured when an SUV skidded off a road and fell into a deep gorge in Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, police said. The SUV, carrying 15 passengers from Chaderkote to Rajgarh, rolled down the 500-ft-deep gorge when its driver lost control at Kunda nullah near Baglihar power house at 10.30 am, an official said. He said the locals, along with the police, immediately launched a rescue operation and pulled out bodies and injured from the scene. While six people were found dead on the spot, five others succumbed on way to hospital, the official said, adding that three more critically injured, including the driver of the vehicle, are being airlifted to Jammu. Rajgarh is a far-flung tehsil in Ramban district and is connected with the Jammu-Srinagar national highway through a link road which is reportedly damaged at various places. The allowed capacity for an SUV operating in the hilly roads--seven passengers and the driver--had been violated, the official said. He identified some of the deceased as Romal Din (61), Mohammad Mubeen (23), Rubeena Begum (30), Urmilla Devi (32), Babli Devi (37), 13-year-old Imano Bano, nine-year-old Arjun, two-year-old Pari, and a three-month-old baby. Another child who was being airlifted to Government Medical College and Hospital, Jammu, succumbed at the helipad, the official said, adding that the identity of the child and a woman is being ascertained. In separate cases, a cyclist was crushed to death by an unidentified vehicle in Poonch district, while nine passengers were injured in a collision between two buses along the Jammu-Pathankot highway in Samba district on Saturday. The cyclist, Prakash (48), a daily wager in Municipal Committee Poonch, was hit by an unidentified vehicle near Jhalas when he was on way to work on Saturday morning, resulting in his on-the-spot death, officials said. They said a bus and a minibus collided near Thandi Khui in Vijaypur along the Jammu-Pathankot highway in Samba district around 9.30 am, resulting in injuries to nine passengers. Three of the critically injured were rushed to Government Medical College and Hospital, Jammu, the officials said. PTI editorial@tribune.com Dinesh Manhotra Tribune News Service Jammu, March 15 On the eve of the crucial meeting of the BJP parliamentary board, the state party unit on Friday prepared panels of probable candidates for the six Lok Sabha seats in J&K. The board is going to meet in Delhi on Saturday to finalise the candidates for the first phase of the elections. Sources said during the two-hour core group meeting held under the leadership of the partys election in charge of J&K Avinash Rai Khanna, the BJP discussed names of the candidates. After finalising the names of the potential candidates, Khanna along with state unit president Ravinder Raina and general secretary (organisation) Ashok Koul left for Delhi on Friday evening. The state leadership has been called to Delhi with the panels of names on Saturday morning so as to finalise the candidates in the parliamentary board meeting, a source said, adding, former Deputy Chief Minister Kavinder Gupta has already reached the Capital. Although candidates will be fielded from all seats, the main task before the party is to retain the three seats which the BJP had won in the 2014 elections, the source said, adding, apart from the sitting Lok Sabha members, names of some other probable candidates were also discussed. Sources said the names of sitting MP Jugal Kishore Sharma, state unit president Ravinder Raina, Narindra Singh and Sat Sharma were discussed for the Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha seat. Similarly, the names of Union minister Dr Jitendra Singh, Shakti Parihar and Sunil Sharma were discussed for the prestigious Udhampur-Doda constituency. The final decision regarding repeating or replacing the sitting MPs will be taken by the parliamentary board, said a senior leader, on the condition of anonymity. He added, the possibility of repeating both the sitting MPs of the Jammu region could not be ruled out. The names of MLC Chering Dorjay, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, Gal P Wangyal and Dorjey Angchuk were discussed for the Ladakh seat, the source said. When contacted, Raina said the final decision would be taken by the parliamentary board on Saturday. We are on the way to Delhi to brief the high command about discussions held at the state-level. Party leaders will accept the decision of the board. Jugal Kishore, Raina in running for Jammu seat editorial@tribune.com Amit Khajuria Tribune News Service Jammu, March 15 In a high-level meeting, the Congress has reportedly told the National Conference that it wants an equal share in the seats for a pre-poll alliance in the forthcoming parliamentary elections. It is also unlikely to leave the Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha seat for the NC. Reports suggested that the NC had offered the Congress only two parliamentary seats, keeping four for itself in case of an alliance for the elections. Though the Congress leadership has been demanding 50 per cent share of the total six seats like the 2014 alliance formula, the NC is adamant on leaving only two parliamentary constituencies for its erstwhile coalition partner. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the NC and Congress had shared three seats each. The Congress had contested on two seats of the Jammu division and the lone constituency of Ladakh. The NC had contested all three parliamentary seats of the Valley. This time, the NC has categorically refused to give the Jammu-Poonch seat to the Congress, as it has already cleared the name of former Chief Secretary BR Kundal for the constituency. The Congress is yet to give its consent for the alliance, but party leaders do not want to leave the Jammu seat for the NC. The NC top brass, including party president Farooq Abdullah, vice-president Omar Abdullah and provincial president Devender Singh Rana, met the Congress team, including former Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, AICC general secretary Ambika Soni, on Wednesday. The NC has made it clear to the Congress that it can offer only two seats in case of an alliance, sources said, adding that the party would go it alone in the Assembly elections. The NC has already cleared the name of Farooq Abdullah for Srinagar and Akbar Lone for Baramulla besides Kundal for Jammu-Poonch. However, it is yet to finalise a candidate for the Anantnag seat. The NC is offering only Kathua-Udhampur and Ladakh seats to the Congress. Sources said the NC wanted the Congress to field Azad from the Kathua-Udhampur seat. However, the Congress wants to utilise the services of Azad at the national-level. pardeepdhull@gmail.com Jammu, March 16 Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Saturday laid the foundation stone of a building that would provide free accommodation daily to 4,000 pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. To add additional facilities for meeting the accommodation needs of the pilgrims who visit the Vaishno Devi shrine, the Governor laid the foundation stone for construction of a new Durga Bhavan in the Bhavan area, a statement by the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, headed by the Governor, said. The Governor electronically launched the work on the five-storey building on the sidelines of the 64th meeting of the Shrine Board here at the Raj Bhavan. The building is estimated to cost around Rs 50 crore and will provide free accommodation to around 4,000 pilgrims every day. It will have adequate facilities such as lockers, toilets, blankets, ready-to-eat snacks and beverages as well as four elevators, the statement said. The new earthquake resistant building will be the largest of the existing buildings in the Bhavan area and will be almost twice the size of the old Durga Bhavan. Its terrace will be covered with an aesthetically designed roof as an additional resting place. IANS editorial@tribune.com Vikram Sharma Tribune News Service Jammu, March 15 A Kasana Gujjar from Murrah in the remote Hill Kaka region in Poonch district has appealed to Home Minister Rajnath Singh to give his community people a chance to deal with militants in terror-struck districts of Shopian and Anantnag in Kashmir. In a communique sent to the Union Home Minister, Tahir Fazal Chaudhary from Murrah said Goursia Gujjars in Shopian and Anantnag were a warrior community and had traits similar to those of Kasana. We had joined the Army during Operation Sarp Vinash in 2003 to clear our region from terrorists at Hill Kaka and if Goursia and Kasana join in a similar manner today, we can ensure victory for our nation, Chaudhary said. Chaudhary, 53, was working in a marble factory in Saudi Arabia when he got the news of his brother being killed by militants at his village. He decided to take revenge from the killers. Their community people working in the same factory formed the Indian Pir Panjal Scouts and approached the Indian consulate to send him back. My plea was heard. The then Union Home Minister LK Advani made all arrangements to send me back home at Murrah. I was introduced to various Army headquarters at Hill Kaka. I formed a team of young Gujjar boys and got them trained with weapons while I was given the AK-47, said Chaudhary, who along with his team of Kasana Gujjars, joined the Army during the operation. After many operations, we were able to trap my brothers killer Abu Kashiv, whom I killed. It was a satisfying moment for me, he said, adding that Gujjar boys displayed exemplary courage to strike deep in various terror camps in Hill Kaka during Operation Sarp Vinash. In the operation, the Army killed 64 terrorists belonging to various jihadist outfits. The system of hideouts used by the militants found during this operation was the largest ever in the known history of insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir. Given a chance, my community people, along with Goursia Gujjars in Kashmir, can deal with militants in Kashmir as they are well versed with the terrain and topography of the region, he said. editorial@tribune.com Azhar Qadri Tribune News Service Srinagar, March 15 A day after the National Investigation Agency issued a fresh summons to Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq to appear for questioning in connection with a terror-financing case, the separatist leader made a defiant stand on Friday and vowed to continue the struggle for the political solution of the Kashmir issue. Mirwaiz, a key separatist in the region, said he and his partys principled stand had been that Kashmir needed to be solved politically and described it as ironic that he was being dubbed a terrorist. I have repeatedly said that our fight is not against any religion or any country, but against the wrong policies of the Indian government, which wants to suppress this movement by force, he said in a weekly commentary made on the sidelines of his Friday sermon at Jamia Masjid in the city here. Mirwaiz told his supporters at the mosque that he would not be cowed down by the tactics meant to scare him and other separatist leaders. Our struggle is not for power or election or electricityour politics is based on truth and honesty and our politics is the politics of the aspirations of the people, he said. The speech by Mirwaiz came a day after the NIA issued a second summons to him, asking him to appear for questioning at the agencys New Delhi headquarters in connection with a terror-financing case. We are not weak that we will shift from our principled stand, Mirwaiz said. We only remind India of its commitments and we will keep reminding itif this is terrorism, then it is ironic, he said. He also criticised some sections, including TV news channels, for campaigning that anyone who seeks solution of Kashmir is a terrorist. We are saying it since 1947 and we repeat it today also that the Kashmir issue should be resolved. Is this terrorism? Is this a declaration of a war against any country? he asked. Mirwaiz said he had maintained it on every forum and before everyone, including (Atal Bihari) Vajpayee and (Pervez) Musharraf, that the Kashmir issue had only two solutions. Solve it as per the international commitments or else Indian, Pakistan and leadership of Kashmir should sit and find a political solution, he said. The separatist leader said there was no military solution to Kashmir and also urged the political parties not to sacrifice Kashmir for their political purposes. Mirwaiz said the Kashmir youth were being pushed to the wall and that oppression was forcing them to become suicide bombers. What sort of atmosphere are you creating? Is this a democracy or fascism or autocracy? You are allowing not anyone to even talk, the separatist leader said. shriaya.dutt@tribuneindia.com London, March 16 After the unveiling of actress Deepika Padukone's wax statue at Madame Tussauds museum here, her actor-husband Ranveer Singh took to social media to express love for his wife over her new achievement. Ranveer on Friday posted several photographs of himself with Deepika's wax statue. But it was his caption which stole all the limelight. Along with the photographs, Ranveer, a proud husband wrote: "DP 2.0! Original toh...mere paas hai (I have the original Deepika)! two much to handle." To that, Deepika jokingly said: "Now you know where to go when you miss me too much." On getting the wax statue, Deepika earlier said: "After I got a call from Madame Tussauds, I thought 'What is the purpose of this, why are we doing this, or what is it that my fans will remember me for, remember my figure for, what is it that I would like to leave behind', and the cause of mental health is very close to my heart, it is something that I am extremely passionate about. "I said that's it, I would like for my fans when they see my figure I hope it reminds them of someone who did something for the cause of mental illness, who worked towards creating awareness and de-stigmatising mental illness. "I hope that it gives people a sense of upliftment and a sense of hope. I hope that message comes through." IANS shalender@tribune.com Actress Shilpa Shetty believes rejections made her stronger and played a huge part in her success. The actress-reality show judge said she faced a tough time in establishing herself in the film industry, but that never stopped her from working hard. I always felt I am doing the right work. I am hard working. I hide under the sofa when I see my old films. Back then in films I had blonde hair, used to wear blue lenses and red lipstick. I wonder how I got opportunities. I think it was all destiny! There is no successful person who hasnt faced failure. The more you get rejected you rise and give your best, Shilpa said during a session at the 20th FICCI Frames. Shilpa said she now feels content with whatever she has achieved in her life. I have completed 25 years and I feel the kind of love I am getting today is more as compared to then when I was actively working in films. I dont remember how I became an actress, I have forgotten that journey. I feel we are born for a purpose. PTI shalender@tribune.com Actress Alia Bhatt, who brought in her 26th birthday on Friday with close friends and actor Ranbir Kapoor, was ecstatic about launching the teaser of her mother Soni Razdans No Fathers In Kashmir. What a great birthday gift mum Soni Razdan gave me! The teaser of No Fathers In Kashmir by Indias youngest Oscar-nominated director Ashvin Kumar. Girl from London meets boy from Kashmir. What a stunning pair these teens make just cant wait to see it, Alia tweeted along with the films teaser. The film is finally due to release on April 5, following a months-long wait for a green signal from the censor board. Alia has been supportive of the film, and had even earlier tweeted in support of the film requesting the authorities to issue the deserving certificate to the film. Special time On the day, Alia was surrounded by the love of her family and friends, including Ranbir, Karan Johar and Ayan Mukerji. IANS shalender@tribune.com Amaravati (AP), March 15 YS Vivekananda Reddy, former minister and younger brother of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister MYS Rajasekhara Reddy, was today found dead at his house in Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh. The police initially registered a case under Section 174 of the CrPC (unnatural death) when Reddys body was found by his staff early this morning. After a post-mortem, the police said the case was altered to Section 302 (murder) of the IPC. His party, the YSR Congress, demanded a CBI probe into the case even as the Andhra Pradesh Government constituted a Special Investigation Team, headed by CID Additional Director General of Police Amit Garg, to probe the death. This was the third unnatural death in the YS family that has a powerful political hold in Kadapa district. While the father YS Raja Reddy was murdered in 1998, the eldest son MYS Rajasekhara Reddy was killed in a helicopter crash in 2009. Vivekananda Reddy was a two-time MLA, two-time MP and a one-term MLC. He served as agriculture minister in the N Kiran Kumar Reddy government in united Andhra Pradesh. The 68-year-old YSR Congress leader is survived by his wife and a daughter. The police said the body bore injury marks. We have gathered some clues and fingerprints from the spot, Kadapa District Superintendent of Police Rahul Dev Sharma said. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu recalled Vivekanandas services as a public representative. PTI 3rd unnatural death in family uttara@tribuneindia.com New Delhi, March 16 The Election Commission Saturday barred political parties from releasing election manifestos and giving interviews in the last 48 hours before polling. The commission has now made the release of election manifestos a part of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), which is a set of rules to be followed by parties after elections are announced. The amended model code now states: "In case of single phase election, manifesto shall not be released during the prohibitory period, as prescribed under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act 1951. "In case of multi-phase elections, manifesto shall not be released during the prohibitory periods, as prescribed under Section 126 of the RP Act of all the phases of those elections." Section 126 of the act embodies "election silence", which prohibits any form of election campaign in the last 48 hours leading up to voting. There is no explicit rule on the timing of release of manifestos. In 2014, the BJP had released its Lok Sabha manifesto on the day of voting in the first phase. Although the Congress had complained to the EC, stating this would influence voters, the commission was unable to act since the MCC is silent on the timing of the manifesto's release. In 2017, BJP released its manifesto one day before the first phase of voting during the assembly elections in Gujarat. A panel formed by the EC had recently recommended that parties be barred from releasing manifesto in the last 72 hours before polling. While several parties were silent on the issue, the Congress had opposed the proposal. Since model code is not a law, any violation leads to a reprimand by the EC. No interviews The Election Commission also asked leaders of all political parties to not give any media interviews during the silence period, or 48 hours before start of polling when campaigning comes to end. During the silence period, star campaigners and other political leaders should refrain from addressing the media by way of press conferences and giving interviews on election matters, the poll panel said in an advisory. A controversy had broken out during the Gujarat Assembly elections in 2017 when Congress President Rahul Gandhi gave interviews to some regional TV channels a day ahead of the polling. The Congress had hit back by pointing out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi organised a road show a day before polling. The EC has also cautioned campaigners to not make any reference to a constituency where the silence period is being observed. In a multi-phased election, the silence period of last 48 hours may be on in certain constituencies while campaign is ongoing in other constituencies. In such event, there should not be any direct or indirect reference amounting to soliciting support for parties or candidates in the constituencies observing the silence period, it said. The poll panel underlined that Section 126 of the Representation of People Act, 1951, inter-alia prohibits election campaign activities through public meetings, processions etc, and displaying of election matter by means of television and similar apparatus. The purpose sought to be served by this prohibition is to provide a period of tranquil (silence period) for the electors before the voting day, it said. In the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections, parties cannot release manifesto in the last 48 hours before each phase on April 11, 18, 23, 29, May 6, 12 and May 19. Agencies rchopra@tribunemail.com New Delhi, March 16 A fire broke out on a marine research vessel off Karnatakas New Mangalore coast, following which 30 crew members and 16 scientists were rescued by the coast guard, an official said on Saturday. Around 10 pm on Friday, Marine Rescue Coordination Centre, Mumbai, was informed about the fire on ocean research vessel (ORV) Sagar Sampada, Coast Guard Inspector General (West region) Vijay Chaphekar said. The vessel belongs to an institute under the Ministry of Earth Sciences. Of the 16 scientists on board, three were women, he said. The fire broke out in the accommodation area of the vessel and the crew was not able to control its spread. The Coast Guard pressed into service ICGS Vikram and ICGS Sujay to render necessary assistance, the official said. The Indian Coast Guard ships arrived at the vessels position just past midnight on March 16 and deployed a joint fire-fighting team to contain the blaze, Chaphekar said, adding that external fire-fighting system fitted on the Indian Coast Guard ships was also used to control the spread of blaze. The team boarded the vessel and assessed the situation. It was found that eight compartments in the accommodation area were on fire, he said. Extensive fire-fighting operations were undertaken which continued for over eight hours. Following that ORV Sagar Sampada proceeded towards New Mangalore harbour safely, Chaphekar said. PTI ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM Sandeep Dikshit Tribune News Service New Delhi, March 15 France has applied national sanctions on Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar in what it hopes will eventually become a pan-Europe listing. India welcomed the move, but suggested that it had not overtly backed it. It is not clear whether the move is symbolic or JeM has substantial assets that can be frozen. The French freezing of Masoods assets by the application of its Monetary and Financial Code will ensure no funds from and to Masood can go through the country, said an Embassy spokesperson here. As the first European Union country to sanction Masood, Paris is now pushing for a European ban. In conjunction with India, it will be nudging individual countries to put a national ban on the JeM chief. It hopes the number of countries sanctioning Masood will gather enough critical mass to persuade the EU to impose a ban. After the inability of the UNSC to list Masood as a global terrorist, agencies had quoted an unnamed Indian diplomat as saying that India was exploring other diplomatic options. Regional bans on Masood are expected to embarrass China, which had argued that it had put a technical hold on his listing because it needed time to examine the material on record. France has always been and always will be by Indias side in the fight against terrorism, said the French statement. France is in the race for orders for fighter aircraft and submarines worth $20 billion. An earlier batch of French-origin submarines is being inducted in the Indian Navy, besides an order book of 36 Rafale fighter planes. France also plans to set up six nuclear plants worth another $20 billion. Economic and financial sanctions are instruments of Frances foreign policy. Global support now Leaders who term Chinas blocking of banning Masood Azhar at UN a diplomatic failure must see that India was alone when the move was first made in 2009 under UPA, while it has worldwide support in 2019. Sushma Swaraj, External affairs minister amansharma@tribunemail.com Hyderabad/Thrissur, March 16 A software engineer from Hyderabad and a woman post-graduate student from Kerala's Thrissur were among the 49 people killed in Friday's terror attacks on two mosques in New Zealand's Christchurch, while the whereabouts of at least two visitors from Gujarat were not known. The shootings -- the first fatal terror attack in the South Pacific island nation in many decades, was allegedly carried out by Brenton Tarrant, 28, who was charged with murder at a court in Christchurch on Saturday. Ancy Ali, a 25-year-old married woman from Kerala's Thrissur, was among the victims, the Kerala Police said. Ancy, who had migrated to New Zealand with her husband Abdul Nassar last year, lived near the mosques that were attacked, an officer at the Kodungalloor police station in Thrissur told IANS. Ancy was doing her post-graduation in Christchurch where her husband was working, the officer said. "We received news from the Special Branch that a woman from here was injured in the shooting. We have now received the news that she has passed away," said the officer who did not wish to be named. Software engineer Farhaj Aslan, who was reported missing following the attacks, was confirmed dead, his family in Hyderabad said on Saturday. "We have received information that my brother was killed in the attack," his elder brother Kashif Ahsan told IANS. The 31-year-old's father Mohammed Sayeeduddin, who was hoping to hear some good news about his son, was inconsolable. Grieving family members huddled in a corner at the family's house in Nadeem Colony of Toli Chowki area after the family received the shocking news. Relatives and friends were pouring in to console the family. Authorities in Christchurch informed Ahsan's wife and her uncle, who rushed from Australia, about his death. They were at a hospital in Christchurch, waiting for some information since morning. Ahsan was at Al Noor mosque for Friday prayers when the terrorist opened indiscriminate fire on worshippers. A father of two, he used to regularly offer Friday prayers at Al Noor mosque as he lives in a nearby neighbourhood. Like every day, Sayeeduddin rang up his son, unaware of what was going on at the mosque. "We spoke to him over phone every day around afternoon and today being Friday, I rang him around 8 a.m. but he did not respond," he had told IANS. He then called his daughter-in-law, who informed him that there was an attack at the mosque and that she also tried to reach Ahsan over his mobile phone. She later went to hospital with a picture of her husband and after a long wait, the authorities told her that he is among 19 people missing. Ahsan, who did his MS from Auckland University, worked for various companies and had recently completely a project for a firm in Christchurch. Meanwhile, another man from Hyderabad who was injured in the terror attack was recovering. Ahmed Iqbal Jehangir, who was at the same mosque, sustained bullet injuries in his chest and shoulder. "Alhamdulillah (grateful to Allah)! He is out of danger and recovering," his brother Mohammed Khursheed Jehangir told IANS here on Saturday. According to information received by Khursheed, a surgery was performed on Ahmed at a hospital in Christchurch to remove a bullet. Ahmed, settled in New Zealand for 15 years, runs a Hyderabadi food restaurant near Al Noor mosque. His wife and children who stay in the same neighbourhood were safe. Khursheed plans to leave for New Zealand to see his brother. Officials in Gujarat said there was no word about some people from the state who were understood to be visiting Christchurch and they were awaiting a response from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). According to unconfirmed sources, at least four visitors from Gujarat were present at the two mosques in Christchurch when the shootings took place. Mehboob Khokhar, a retired employee of the Gujarat Electricity Board (GEB) and a resident of Ahmedabad's Juhapura, had gone to one of the mosques to offer Friday prayers. "After the attack in the mosque at Al Noor, my brother-in-law Imran and my mother-in-law Begum Akhtar rushed to the hospitals. But we still don't know whether Khokhar is admitted somewhere or is still missing. We have not received any confirmation from the New Zealand authorities yet," said Hafiz Patni, the son-in-law of Khokhar, who's also a resident of Juhapura. It is also believed that a father-son duo from Anand were also present at one of the two mosques when the attack took place. IANS ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM Tribune News Service New Delhi, March 15 Noting that Pakistans doublespeak has once again been exposed at the very first meeting on the Kartarpur corridor, India today rued the fact that the neighbouring country wanted to restrict the duration of agreement to only two years for allowing pilgrims to visit the gurdwara on the other side of the border. Edit: Corridor headway Sources in the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), who were part of the negotiations with Pakistan authorities yesterday on the Indian side of the Attari-Wagah border, also accused Pakistan of surreptitiously usurping land belonging to Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in the name of developing the corridor for the convenience of pilgrims. An official said the Pakistan team showed reluctance in accepting most demands made by the Indian side. Pakistan wanted to restrict the duration of Kartarpur agreement to just two years, despite India making it clear that it is executing long-lasting and comprehensive facilities at the border by spending Rs 190 crore for the first phase, the official said. While India is executing a state-of-the-art passenger terminal building to process 5,000 pilgrims daily and over 15,000 pilgrims on special occasions like Baisakhi, Pakistan has limited it to mere 700 pilgrims per day. Pakistan also did not agree to Indias demand for daily visits. On the issue of visa-free passage to Kartarpur Sahib, Pakistan has changed its position, insisting on special permits to pilgrims and that too on payment of fee, the official said, adding that the proposition was outrageous to us and defeats the very purpose of the corridor. Interestingly, when India and Pakistan had signed a pact in 1974 to facilitate the visit of their pilgrims to the shrines located in each others territories, Kartarpur Sahib was not included despite repeated Indian requests. Pakistan has so far resisted all attempts to include Kartarpur in the 1974 MoU, the official said, adding that according to the pact, there are 15 shrines in Pakistan and seven in India, where each others pilgrims can visit. Against the hype created by Pakistan government and media, its actual offer turned out to be farcical. Clearly, Pakistan is not interested in providing Indian pilgrims easy access to Kartarpur Sahib, the MHA official said. Objections to plan rchopra@tribunemail.com New Delhi, March 16 If Pakistan was sincere in tackling terror, then it should at least hand over to India Dawood Ibrahim, Sayeed Salahudeen and other terrorists who are Indian citizens and residing in that country, government sources said on Saturday. They said Pakistan had failed to take any credible action against Jaish-e-Mohammed and other terror groups even after the dastardly Pulwama attack. If Pakistan really wanted to send a message that it was serious about addressing Indias concerns over terrorism, then it should hand over Dawood, Salahudeen and other terrorists who are Indians, sources said. Referring to actions by Pakistan such as holding ceratin terrorists in preventive custody, sources said India considered them to be cosmetic. India has been asking Pakistan to hand over Dawood, Salahudeen and several other terrorists who are wanted in India in connection with a series of terror attacks. Sources said India had shared various key details such as coordinates of terror groups operating from Pakistan soil to Islamabad which could be verified by a third country. After the Pulwama terror attack, India has mounted a diplomatic offensive to corner Pakistan internationally on the issue of terrorism. India has been pressing for concrete and verifiable action by Pakistan against terror groups operating from Pakistani soil. Tension between the two nuclear-armed neighbours escalated after the February 14 Pulwama terror attack and subsequent aerial strike by India on a training camp of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Balakot on February 26. Pakistan retaliated to the strike next day by unsuccessfully attempting to target Indian military installations. The JeM claimed responsibility for the Pulwama attack. PTI shriaya.dutt@tribuneindia.com New Delhi, March 16 External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will travel to the Maldives on a two-day visit beginning on Sunday, in the first full-fledged bilateral trip from India to the island nation after the government of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih came to power in November. Announcing the visit, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it is aimed at further strengthening the "close and friendly" relations between the two countries. "India attaches the highest importance to its relationship with the Maldives which is marked by trust, transparency, mutual understanding and sensitivity," the MEA said. In Male, Swaraj will have a bilateral meeting with Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid and delegation-level talks with Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi, Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer, National Planning and Infrastructure Minister Mohamed Aslam, Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Aishath Nahula and Economic Development Minister Fayyaz Ismail. "The ministers will review the entire gamut of bilateral relations and discuss future programme of action," the MEA said. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and a number of senior officials will accompany Swaraj during the trip. Swaraj will also call on President Solih on Monday and Speaker of the Parliament Qasim Ibrahim on Sunday. Minister of Home Affairs Sheikh Imran Abdulla will also call on Swaraj. Officials said it will be the first full-fledged bilateral visit at the political level from India to the Maldives after the new government assumed office. They said Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Maldives in November only to attend Solih's swearing-in ceremony and no substantive discussion had taken place then. Sources said the Maldives was aware of Indian government's limitations due to the election code of conduct and that Swaraj's visit will be to enhance overall ties which came under strain during the presidentship of Abdulla Yameen, who was known to be close to China. Solih had visited India in December last year during which India announced a USD 1.4 billion financial assistance to the island nation. The two countries had also agreed to remain mindful of each other's concerns and aspirations for the stability of the Indian Ocean region and not allow their respective territories to be used for any activity inimical to their interests. Relations between India and the Maldives deteriorated after the then President Abdulla Yameen imposed emergency on February 5 last year. India had criticised his decision and asked his government to restore the credibility of the electoral and political process by releasing political prisoners. The emergency lasted for 45 days. Solih became president in November after he defeated Yameen in presidential elections. PTI pardeepdhull@gmail.com Washington, March 16 The US and two other permanent Security Council members, France and Britain, are believed to be in intense good faith discussions with China to arrive at a compromise on the UN designation of Jaish chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. And if that effort does not end up in the formal designation of Azhar, the three permanent members are planning to soon move a resolution for his listing in the most powerful wing of the UN which would be preceded by an open debate on the issue, according to people familiar with the matter. On Wednesday, China blocked for the fourth consecutive time a resolution at a UN Security Council Committee on designating Azhar, head of the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad group, as a global terrorist. The proposal was moved by the US, France and the UK. India had expressed disappointment over the Chinese stance and the original co-sponsors of the resolution had warned they will consider other actions to achieve their goal. While the internal consultations of the Security Council committee remain private, this time several Council members, frustrated at Chinas unreasonable stance to protect a terrorist, privately spoke to the media the negative role being played by Beijing. If China continues to block this designation, responsible member-states may be forced to pursue other actions at the Security Council. It shouldnt have to come to that, a Security Council diplomat told PTI on Wednesday in an unusual tough warning to Beijing. In the last 50 hours, it is believed that the original sponsors of the Azhar resolution are having intense good faith consultations with China on what many familiar with the matter describe as a compromise. This probably means Azhar would be designated as a global terrorist by the UN body, but the language of designation would include a language acceptable to China. China is believed to have suggested certain changes in the language of the terrorist designation. The US, Britain and France are believed to be currently looking at the suggestions. It is understood that there is back-and-forth exchange of texts on the matter. The three countries have indicated that they are willing to accommodate Chinese request for changes in the language as long as it does not change the substance of the resolution and it ends up designating Azhar as a UN global terrorist. But unlike in the past, the US, France, Britain and other members of the Security Council are not willing to wait for long to conclude their discussion with China. It is learnt that China has been informed by these countries that they are seriously looking for other options, in particular an open debate followed by a vote on a resolution to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, pretty soon. Not months, not weeks but days. This is the what Beijing has been conveyed. At the same time, officials of these countries believe that China this time has been much more co-operative than in the past. But in case at any point the three countries get a feeling that China is not doing a good faith negotiation on the compromise formula that is being negotiated, they are ready with the other move. China, after its decision to put a technical hold on the resolution, has invited criticism and its stance has also resulted in an outrage in India. Beijing would have to calculate the risk of being isolate globally on the issue of fight against terrorism or signing off to a compromised language that would designate Azhar as a global terrorist, since except China, all other UNSC members supported the resolution. Getting Chinese support to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, at the UN, in any format, would be considered as a terrific accomplishment. The very fact that there has been discussions going on between China and the US, Britain and France, is considered as a positive development. Those familiar with Chinas working pattern are still not confident and thats the reason why they are seriously working on other options including an open debate in the Security Council, where Beijing might find it difficult to defend a terrorist in public. PTI harinder@tribunemail.com The Shiromani Akali Dal has faced one of its worst political crises in its recent history. But that has not deterred its president Sukhbir Singh Badal from launching an aggressive political campaign to resurrect his party in the forthcoming parliamentary elections. While his political opponents have yet to venture out, Sukhbir has toured 85 of the 117 Assembly seats and tells The Tribune reporter Ruchika M Khanna that the Akali Dal would surpass everyones expectations, and that the sacrilege infamy is behind now. Excerpts of the interview: Is the crisis in the Akali Dal over? There was no crisis in the Akali Dal. People who left the party were pushing for their sons into active politics, which was stonewalled by the party leadership as they were no good. Their (Taksali leaders) departure from the party has only benefited us as we have been able to infuse young and fresh talent in the party. What are the prospects of SAD in the General Election after the split? There was no split in the party. Some people decided to part ways. But let me tell you that we (Akali-BJP combine) will win around 10 seats. As for the senior leaders who left us, everyone will know after the elections what they are worth. The fight is with the Congress only. Are you going to contest the parliamentary poll, as is being speculated? Sources say that either you or your father will be contesting one seat. I cant say this at the moment. The party will take a final call on this soon. When will you declare all candidates for the Lok Sabha elections? We have already decided on five of the 10 seats that we will contest, and these candidates have been sounded to start their campaign. The remaining candidates will be announced soon. We still have two months before the polls in Punjab. Is the Akali Dal contesting in Haryana independently or are you looking for alliance with BJP? We are in talks with several parties, including Haryana Lokhit Party (Gopal Kandas party) and Loktantar Suraksha Party (MP Raj Kumar Sainis party). Some talks have also been initiated with the BJP. A party committee headed by Balwinder Singh Bhunder will take the final call on this shortly. Is there now synchronisation with the BJP, after differences were sorted out? We have a perfect relationship with the BJP. Since we do not encroach on the others turf, there is no problem. Have you managed to win Panthic voters back in the party fold? What impact has the Ranjit Singh panel report and SIT had on your vote base? It is wrong to say that the Panthic voters had left Akali Dal. In 2017 election, our vote share was 31%, that of Congress was 38% and of AAP was 21%. Regarding the report and SIT, people of Punjab have seen through the Congress game plan. Capt Amarinder Singh has failed as a Chief Minister and is trying to deflect the attention of people from his governments non-performance. editorial@tribune.com Ruchika M Khanna Economics is often sacrificed at the altar of politics. The past two years of the Congress government have proved that. Despite the intent to turn the states fiscal health around, affirmative action has been missing. By the year-end, the states outstanding debt will increase by Rs 34, 459. 09 crore and interest payment on loans by Rs 977.58 crore. Fiscal deficit will rise from Rs 12,494.19 crore (in 2017) to Rs 19,657.87 crore and revenue deficit from Rs 9,455.27 crore to Rs 11,687.26 crore. In lay mans terms, the state's committed liabilities are rising be it salaries, pension, retirement benefits or power subsidy. The Food Credit legacy debt too is pulling the economy down. So is the GST which is lower than anticipated. In the first year of its tenure, the government did not impose new taxes. In the second, it introduced two taxes Punjab Development Tax and Punjab Social Security Tax. However, tax collection started much later and was far less than targeted. This year, with the General Election round the corner, the government preferred vote politics to economics. No fresh taxes were imposed. The government admits there is a resource gap and outstanding liabilities like unpaid power subsidy to be carried forward to the next fiscal year. But there is no road map on how the this gap is to be filled. Excise collections (from sale of liquor) have fallen. There is virtually no earning from the leasing of sand and gravel quarries. Stamp duty collections are lower than estimated because of the downturn in the realty sector. To give the Congress its due, new investment has started coming to the state. Having promised the moon to voters, the Congress government is duty-bound to honour its promises, including that of providing jobs. It needs to pull its act together to give thea final push to revive economy. editorial@tribune.com Terror attacks and target killings kept the police on the edge while the states fight against drugs that began with a bang in the initial months of the two-year tenure of the Capt Amarinder Singh government went cold gradually. While the police successfully checked terror attacks, solved cases of target killings of politico-religious leaders, new challenges emerged with the arrest of Kashmiri terrorists for the first time for allegedly attacking the Maqsudan police station in Jalandhar. The police also arrested some Kashmiri students for storing weapons in their college hostel. More than 20 modules of terrorist groups of alleged Sikh extremists were busted. The police also managed to bust leading groups of gangsters. These groups had mushroomed in plenty during the previous governments tenure. The police struggled in washing the stains of firing during a protest against sacrilege incidents in Behbal Kalan and Kotkapura. TNS uttara@tribuneindia.com Tribune News service Chandigarh, March 16 Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Saturday accused the National Democratic Alliance of using the defence forces for political gains. The chief ministerCaptain, as hes popularly calledclaimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modis government and party was using the airstrikes at Balakot for their own political gains, something that he claimed was unheard of in the pastnot even by former prime minister Indira Gandhi, who successfully saw through the 1971 war with Pakistan. Singh, who was speaking at an event organised by the Punjab Confgress, claimed that airstrikes had been conducted by the armed forces even under previous governments but were never politicised like this. He also added that the BJP would not make any political gains out of the airstrikes because the defence forces were not political entities. The event was organised to highlight done work under Amarinder Singhs government in the past two years. His government completed two years in power on Saturday. editorial@tribune.com All primary health centres and community health centres to be developed as independent multi-specialty hospitals. This was one of the main promises in the Congress election manifesto. Two years on, the far-fetched dream remains unrealised and almost forgotten. The out-of-pocket expenditure on health keeps on increasing, even as the shortage of doctors, nurses and even medicines stares at the government. Though the government has filled the vacant posts of doctor and recruited specialists by relaxing rules, a vital statistic remains it is serving the entire population with almost the same number of doctors as was being done 40 years ago. Almost one-third posts of staff nurse and ANMs are lying vacant. In the very first year of the term, Health Minister Brahm Mohindra announced to procure only WHO-certified medicines for government hospitals. There was a free flow of medicines during the SAD-BJP regime, but the quality was low. Under the Congress rule, the quality has improved but the supply is erratic. The government has tried to fix the secondary and tertiary care, but medical colleges are struggling. However, the efforts in tackling drug addiction has yielded good results as with the regular supply of medicines and availability of doctors at Outpatient Opioid Assisted Treatment programme, it was successful in bringing a large number of addicts under the de-addiction programme. TNS harinder@tribunemail.com Anirudh Gupta Every time the polling season nears, leaders across the political spectrum start raising the pitch for reopening of border to allure the electorate in this border constituency that shares over 200-km-long border with Pakistan. This catchphrase, which was hitherto considered a magic wand for the people of this area, has been exploited to the hilt by every candidate vying for the Lok Sabha polls from this constituency, but without any tangible outcome. Now, with the India-Pakistan relations hitting an all-time low, this rhetoric may not get any buyers this time, though the nod for the Kartarpur corridor had raised their hopes for the border re-opening early this year. An interaction with cross-section of people in this constituency comprising nine Assembly segments reveal that the people are not amused either with the Modi government at the Centre or the Congress regime in the state. The populace here, especially those belonging to villages situated along the Sutlej, are irked over false promises made to them every time polls are round the corner. For these bravehearts, who have borne the brunt of two Indo-Pak wars and incursion of furious Sutlej several times in the past, nothing has changed on ground. We are yet to taste the fruit of freedom even seven decades after Independence, said Surjit Singh of Gatti Rajoke. Leaders come ahead of the polls, make utopian promises only to forget the same after results, says Makhan Singh, a farmer. What to talk of netas, even the DCs and SSPs are sparsely seen here, he added. These hapless farmers expect little change after the polls even this time unless some dynamic leaders get elected to the Lok Sabha. Major Singh of Kamalewala village, who runs a barber shop from a rented accommodation, wanted to join the Army after completing his Class XII. However, due to lack of financial resources, he had to settle in this profession. Sadde pind vich bahut sare naujwan changa padh likh gaye, par uhna nu naukri nahi mili, he said. Karan Singh Dhaliwal, secretary, Border Kisan Union (Punjab), says even educated youth belonging to this region have to work as daily wagers. They dont have financial resources. Either people opt for labour or start their own small business like mobile repair or grocery shop. Those who are financially strong opt to go abroad instead of working here, he said. No wonder that IELTS centres have mushroomed in the area. Harbhajan Lal, a small businessman belonging to Vasal Mohanke village in Guruharsahai, praised PM Narendra Modi for his schemes like Jan Dhan Yojana, but rued that the banks denied them loans due to poor market value of land in border areas. Amit Kamboj from Baje Ke village says though after losing elections in three states, the Brand Modi has lost sheen, he still believes that he will get another chance. Baldev Singh, a retired government employee from Lakho ke Behram village, said Modi had promised to generate job opportunities, but in vain. Talking about the sitting MP, he said they have not seen the MP for the past several years in their area. Caste factor has always played an important role in determining the outcome of any election in this border constituency. Rai Sikhs is the predominant community here, followed by Hindus, Kumhars, Jat Sikhs and Kambojs. Most of the time either Jat Sikh or Rai Sikh candidate, barring Balram Jakhar in 1980, have represented this constituency. harinder@tribunemail.com Rajmeet Singh Completing two years in office, Punjab Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh turned 77 this week. While there was a bash to celebrate his birthday, his tenure so far may not call for as grand a celebration. The roll-out of development schemes has been painfully slow and poll promises are yet to be met. This said, Capt Amarinder continues to play on the front foot in the political arena. Outsmarting his rivals within the party, mainly those eyeing the top seat, he has reaffirmed his position as the undisputed leader of the Punjab Congress. Securing a two-thirds majority in the 2017 Assembly elections followed by consecutive wins in the byelections to the Gurdaspur Lok Sabha and Shahkot Assembly seats with huge margins, the CM, strengthened by a divided Opposition, is now working on Mission 13 winning all 13 Lok Sabha seats. Capt Amarinder is credited with instilling a sense of security in all sections by eliminating organised crime, cracking murder cases of Hindu right-wing leaders and busting Khalistani modules. At the same time, he has addressed Panthic issue by initiating action though only partially on the emotive issue of sacrilege and the police firing at Behbal Kalan and Kotkapura. The special schemes launched to commemorate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev and pushing for the Kartarpur Sahib corridor are his other accomplishments that has won him praise. But thats half the story. Capt Amarinder has given virtually a free hand to bureaucrats to run the government. In private, his Cabinet colleagues and party legislators admit the governments performance has been below expectations, mainly owing to lack of delivery of government schemes. In the saddle for 24 months now, the narrative of under-delivered poll promises is being played up by the Opposition. Given the financial crunch, promises like free smartphones under Captain Smart Connect Scheme, Rs 2,500 unemployment allowance and a job for each family remain a distant dream. The government intent of ending the sand, transport and cable mafia is not visible on the ground. The involvement of a number of party MLAs in sand mining is a case in point. The government has been found wanting in prompt action as illegal mining continues unabated, despite the government bringing in a new sand and gravel policy. Basking in glory for being the first state to disburse Rs 4,736 crore under farm loan debt waiver scheme Karja Kurki Khatam, Fasal Di Puri Rakam benefiting five lakh small and marginal farmers and other Congress-ruled states replicating the Punjab model, the government is now bringing in a scheme for landless farmers and farmhand. Though the government may be given credit for initiating administrative reforms, tackling corruption continues to be their Achilles heel. The much promised legislation on Conflict of Interest to bring MLAs and ministers under its purview is still at the discussion stage. Also, the exodus of Punjabi youth to foreign lands is indicative of the rising problem of unemployment. Under the Ghar Ghar Rozgar and Karobar schemes, the government claims to have helped 6.26 lakh youth 761 per day. The Opposition, however, is not impressed. It says the government has been using private colleges to host Rozgar Melas to send out the impression it is generating employment. editorial@tribune.com The initiatives taken by Local Government Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu for checking malpractices in his department soon after he took over have died down after two years. Though a series of suspensions in various departments after he took charge showed potential for an overhaul in one of the most controversial departments, there is no change worth a mention on ground. In one example, at least 11 officials of the Improvement Trust in Bathinda suspended in May 2017 have been reinstated. The minister in October 2017 had conceded that at least 95 per cent sewers in various towns were blocked. Media reports this year showed overflowing sewers in Abohar, Mohali, Patiala and Ludhiana besides several other places. Garbage heaps can be seen on roads in Amritsar. What can be more embarrassing than a Congress councillor resigning over the corporations inability to lift garbage. The department also cannot wash its hands off its inability to prevent dengue. Health Minister Brahm Mohindra came on record criticising the department. The media also highlighted the increasing cases of dog bites, including the death of an infant. The dog bite cases crossed 1.13 lakh last year, while accidents due to stray cattle are common. Congress MLA from Patti Harminder Singh Gill spoke about unattended roads in the state Assembly. Though Sidhu had made big announcements about removing all defacements with unregulated advertisements all over the state, it has not happened. The only good news is that Ludhiana has given work order to Leafberry Company for Rs 23 crore advertisements. This alone is more than the entire states revenue of Rs 18 crore last year. However, despite repeated efforts Sidhu could not be contacted for comments. Sanjeev Singh Bariana uttara@tribuneindia.com New York Increased use of digital media may be partly responsible for the growth in the percentage of young adults experiencing certain types of mental health disorders in the US over the past decade, suggests new research. "More US adolescents and young adults in the late 2010s, versus the mid-2000s, experienced serious psychological distress, major depression or suicidal thoughts, and more attempted suicide," said lead study author Jean Twenge, Professor of Psychology at San Diego State University in the US. "These trends are weak or non-existent among adults 26 years and over, suggesting a generational shift in mood disorders instead of an overall increase across all ages," Twenge added. For the study, the researchers analysed data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, a nationally representative survey that has tracked drug and alcohol use, mental health and other health-related issues in individuals aged 12 and over in the US since 1971. They looked at survey responses from more than 200,000 adolescents aged 12 to 17 from 2005 to 2017, and almost 400,000 adults aged 18 and over from 2008 to 2017. The rate of individuals reporting symptoms consistent with major depression in the last 12 months increased 52 per cent in adolescents from 2005 to 2017from 8.7 per cent to 13.2 per centand 63 per cent in young adults aged 18 to 25 from 2009 to 2017from 8.1 per cent to 13.2 per cent, showed the findings published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology. "Cultural trends in the last 10 years may have had a larger effect on mood disorders and suicide-related outcomes among younger generations compared with older generations," said Twenge. She believes this trend may be partially due to increased use of electronic communication and digital media, which may have changed modes of social interaction enough to affect mood disorders. Moreover, research shows that young people are not sleeping as much as they did in previous generations, she noted. IANS rajivbhatia82@gmail.com Purnima Sharma Not too far back, when actress Neena Gupta, then close to 50, tied the knot, more than the eyebrows were the toasts that were raised! Its high time we applaud and celebrate the decisions women make about choosing their life partners, especially in their later years, says Sumona Mehra, who too followed suit and said I do to her beau when she was well into the sixth decade of her life. The only difference was, while it was Guptas first marriage, Mehra had been married before. And because it wasnt the best of marriages, my confidence in the institution wasnt exactly sky high, says the senior ad executive, talking about the yes that took quite a while coming. Helping her take the decision was her daughter Ananya. She had known all along that Rahul and I were once colleagues and had given each other moral support through our respective divorces, says the 58-year-old. Mehra makes it clear that there was no rekindling of old romance but just practical reasons that made the two tie the knot. Actually, it was Ananya who brainwashed me saying that once she got married, Id eventually get lonely and hence would need a companion. And with time, I did come around to seeing her point of view, says Mehra. What firmed up further was the example of her childhood friend a single mother who was left high and dry after her children flew the nest. However, she is quick to add that this is not to say that children stop loving their parents after they grow up. Its just that they too have their own set of responsibilities. Liberated women Gone are the days when women stuck in a bad marriage remained in it for better or worse. Now, women, especially those belonging to the Baby Boomers generation, who like to call themselves WHIPs (Women who are Hot, Intelligent and in their Prime), have started rewriting the rules. And thats the reason they are giving marriage a rethink many amongst them have no qualms about walking out of a bad marriage and treading into the one that holds the promise of happiness. Talking about this very noticeable but positive trend hes been observing lately, clinical psychiatrist Dr Sanjay Chugh says that many single women in their later years have started looking for companionship and emotional stability in a relationship that they hope will see them through in their later years. The ladies Dr Chugh is talking about are those who are single not just as a consequence of bad relationships or widowhood but also those who stayed away from matrimony for multiple reasons, be it professional, familial or financial. Despite being empowered, financially independent, they feel the time spent with an understanding companion will help them combat loneliness and health issues that might crop up in their later years. Neeta Gosain, despite being determined to stay single till almost her early 50s, agreed to meet a man her best (girl) friend chose for her. Reason? Well, it was more pragmatic than romantic. With both my parents gone, I needed someone whod take care of me when I fall ill. Of course, Id do the same for him too. The fact that I found someone I liked was a bonus indeed, she smiles. Pragmatism and romance A mix of pragmatism and a bit of romance is what made Sujata Sidhu walk down the aisle, despite two broken marriages behind her. Initially, I wasnt too keen on getting married, confesses the 55-year-old who returned to India to look after her father, soon after her mother passed away because of cancer. Had I been staying abroad, I might have just lived-in with Sukumar. But here in India, peoples attitudes towards relationships outside wedlock are completely different, says the financial consultant. She remembers how, soon after landing in India about five years ago, married men, upon learning that I was a divorcee, started hitting on me in a big way. However, her decision to marry Sukumar wasnt made to keep these Lotharios at bay. An imperious act coupled with a sense of humour was enough to handle them, adds the mother of a 27-year-old. What played Cupid was Sukumars understanding and comprehension about life. I had seen him put up a brave front through a messy divorce. And once that was through, I saw the real person in him emerge one who was fun-loving, intelligent and down to earth. And thats when I realised that here was someone I could spend the rest of my life with. What, of course, helped, she adds, was the respect and acceptance of the differences that made up their personalities. This is what, she adds, forms the basic foundation for a firm bond in any marriage. Septuagenarian matchmaker Natwar Lal Govindbhai Patel, the now 70-year-old who has helped many singletons in their twilight years find partners for themselves, agrees wholeheartedly. Having witnessed many people lose their loved ones in the 2001 Bhuj earthquake, he worried for those elderly people who had no one left to look after them, and thats when he decided to form an NGO and help them find a mate. Loneliness is a slow poison, says the septuagenarian who has since organised workshops in many parts of India including Delhi, Hyderabad, Chennai, Shimla and Chandigarh. My mission is to help all elderly single people, particularly women, since they still remain very reticent and shy about taking such a step and find a companion for themselves. A few names have been changed to protect identity When Sudha met Deepankar I wish I could have lived my life backwards, says Sudha Shankar, hypnotherapist and educator with the nonviolent-communication movement. Married when barely out of college, Sudha gave it her best shot for more than one and half decades before she called it quits. Although she and her two young kids had the unconditional support of her parents, the Universe, as she says, started preparing her for the life ahead. Soon after she completed a journalism course, she started work in a publishing house and was on her way to financial independence. And soon after Sudha turned 51 at a juncture when she was not even considering marriage she met Deepankar. Within no time, things started falling into place. Not only her own children and Deepankars young son were fine with their decision, but also the latters mother and his first wifes family welcomed her with open arms. I think it all had to do with a shared perspective and understanding of life, says Sudha. And soon after she gave her consent, she had two weddings in a single day a typical Malayalee temple wedding followed by a registered one. Both the weddings, she recalls, had their share of fun moments. The first had this yuppie pundit who walked in wearing a pair of jeans and a tee. And the latter had a registrar who sat with a big scowl on his face as Deepankar read through his vows, recalls Sudha. His expressions wouldnt have changed as I started with mine but for the fact that I, realising Id left my reading glasses at home, asked Deepankar for his. Thats when he started laughing and said, Ah, youve already started sharing his things. Trendsetter Actress Suhasini Mulay is among the more prominent names who walked down the aisle rather late in life. The multiple National Award winner was 60 when she decided to tie the knot with Atul Gurtu, a physicist. She met him on the Internet. She was drawn to Gurtu, who had lost his wife six years back, after he wrote a moving article on his wifes illness and how they handled it before she passed away. Suhasini Mulay with husband, Atul Gurtu rchopra@tribunemail.com Christchurch, March 16 The main suspect in New Zealands worst peacetime mass shooting intended to continue the rampage before he was caught by police, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Saturday. The offender was mobile, there were two other firearms in the vehicle that the offender was in, and it absolutely was his intention to continue with his attack, Ardern told reporters in Christchurch. The suspect, identified as Brenton Harrison Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian citizen, has been charged with murder, though Ardern added that further charges are likely. Im not privileged to a full breakdown at this point but it is clear that young children have been caught up in this horrific attack, she said regarding victims of the attack. Reuters rchopra@tribunemail.com Christchurch, March 16 Twenty-eight-year-old Brenton Tarrant, who is the main suspect in the massacre of 49 people at two mosques in Christchurch, showed no remorse as he appeared in a court here on Saturday and smirked as the judge read a single murder charge against him. The right-wing extremist who filmed himself during the Friday rampage, appeared before the Christchurch district court in a white prison jumpsuit, handcuffed and barefoot. Flanked by two police officers, he smirked when media photographed him and was seen making a white supremacist sign with his hands, The New Zealand Herald reported. The Australian stood silently during the brief hearing as he was charged with one count of murder. He was remanded in custody without plea and is due to appear in court on April 5. Two other people were in custody over the incident. None of those detained had a criminal record. After Tarrant left the court, Judge Kellar said while there was one charge of murder brought at the moment, it was reasonable to assume that there will be others. Speaking at a news conference on Saturday, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the suspects car was full of weapons, suggesting his intention to continue with his attack. He had obtained a gun licence in November 2017 that allowed him to buy the weapons used in the attack. Ardern said that the guns appeared to have been modified. The mere fact...that this individual had acquired a gun licence and acquired weapons of that range, then obviously I think people will be seeking change, and Im committing to that, she said. New Zealands Attorney-General David Parker said the government would look into banning semi-automatic weapons, but that no final decision had been made. Tarrant, who grew up in the Australian town of Grafton, had been living in Dunedin, about 360 km south of Christchurch. The Australian police were investigating Tarrants connections around Grafton. Before his appearance at the court, New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush said Tarrant had been charged with one count of murder, with other charges to follow. Tarrant was one of the three people arrested in connection with the shootings at the Al Noor Mosque and the Linwood Avenue Masjid. The other two remain in custody but their role in the shootings was unclear, CNN said. A fourth person who had been taken into custody was later determined to be an armed bystander who wanted to help police. Ardern, while speaking at the Christchurch Canterbury Refugee Centre on Saturday, said bodies were still being removed from the Al Noor mosque--the site of the first attack. She added that financial support would be made available to those who had lost someone on whom they were financially dependent. A total of 48 people were wounded in the shootings. India, Bangladesh and Indonesia all say some of their citizens were killed in the shooting and others are unaccounted for. Fridays killing was a terrorist attack that appeared orchestrated for the social media. The brutal shootings were previewed on an infamous Internet message board and then graphically live-streamed on Facebook. An 87-page manifesto, found by authorities after it was posted online, was filled with anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim ideas. According to the latest census figures, Muslims make up about 1.1 per cent of New Zealands population of 4.25 million. Numbers rose sharply as New Zealand took in refugees from various war-torn countries since the 1990s. IANS amansharma@tribunemail.com Sydney, March 16 "Just a ordinary White man, 28 years old," was how Brenton Harrison Tarrant, accused of killing 49 people and injuring more at two mosques in New Zealand, introduced himself to the world in a manifesto circulating online. "Born in Australia to a working class, low income family," he added. Other than that, the country that spawned the man accused of the world's second-deadliest shooting was scrambling for clues about a life that those in his hometown said left little impression until he unleashed a long, articulate screed published online along with a link to a livestream video of the mosque shootings. Under New Zealand's contempt rules, there are limits on what can be published about him, to preserve his right to a fair trial. Although his social media profiles on Facebook and Twitter were taken down soon after news of the incident spread, police said Tarrant had lived in Grafton, an inland city split by a river and known for its logging industry, about 500 km north of Sydney. In his 74-page manifesto, he said he had gone to the local high school. Grafton High School did not return a Reuters phone call seeking comment. Tarrant said in his document he received "little education during my schooling, barely achieving a passing grade", skipping university to work and deal in cryptocurrency, which he said was profitable. He also became a committed member of his local gym, Big River Squash and Fitness Centre, as a high school student, qualifying as a personal trainer, the Sydney Morning Herald quoted its owner, Tracey Gray, as saying. "He started coming to my facility as a boy that was finishing school and showed a lot of dedication to his own training," the paper quoted Gray as saying. "He never showed any extremist tendencies in conversations I had with him." Tarrant left Grafton around the time of his father's death in about 2011, Gray told the Herald. On Saturday, no one was answering the gym's phone and its Facebook page had been disabled. Grafton Police declined to comment on whether they had any previous dealings with Tarrant, as did the New South Wales state police. New Zealand authorities have said he was not on any watchlists. Experiences abroad Tarrant wrote that he used the spoils of his cryptocurrency dealings to travel in France, Spain and Portugal in 2017. Several countries checked their records after the attacks and discovered that he had also embarked on other travels. A few months before his Western Europe trip, in late 2016, Tarrant visited Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Croatia, where he stopped by historic battle sites, Bulgarian Chief Prosecutor Sotir Tsatsarov told Reuters. He returned to the region in November 2018 to tour historic sites of Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary. His interest showed "a very serious knowledge of the Balkan history in details I would say even few people in the Balkans know," Bulgarian Foreign Minister Elaterid Zachariah said. Tarrant also visited Turkey "multiple times and spent an extended period of time in the country", a senior Turkish official told Reuters, without giving dates. The authorities there were now investigating his movements domestically in the wake of the shooting, added the official, who was not authorised to speak to the media and commented on condition of anonymity. His suspended Facebook page also showed a post from Pakistan in 2018 in which he called the country "an incredible place filled with the most earnest, kind hearted and hospitable people in the world," according to the Herald. In Grafton, which holds a jacaranda festival each October, councillor Greg Clan said the city was conservative with no mosque or significant Muslim population. "Why this particular person from Grafton had a set against Muslims I would not know," he said. "It's just weird, apart from being shocking." Reuters editorial@tribune.com Vijay Mohan Tribune News Service Chandigarh, December 24 The raising of the new mountain strike corps, ostensibly to counter the threat from China, has depleted the Armys war wastage reserves (WWR). This has now raised questions over the Armys capability to sustain operations during a war. War wastages reserves were used to meet the requirement of weapons and equipment for the new raising in the absence of adequate budgetary support. The problems we are facing, essentially, is slightly futuristic as we see it because we have to now make up all the stores that we have pulled out from the WWR. That requires additional infusion of funds, Vice Chief of the Army Staff has stated before Parliaments Standing Committee of Defence. We are not getting additional budget. A certain amount of about Rs 5,000 crore has been set aside saying that this is meant for the Mountain Corps. But this is not over and above the budget. So, we need money over and above the budget if we are able to make up all the stores and weapons which we have pulled out from the War Wastage Reserves for the initial raisings. he added. The depletion of the Armys war wastage reserves come in the backdrop of reports citing critical shortages not only in some major weapon systems but also basic equipment such as boots, bullet proof jackets and assault rifles. Then there is the issue of continuing manpower shortage both in the officer cadre as well as the ranks. The new strike corps, christened 17 Corps, got off the ground earlier this year. WHEN the new coronavirus variant Omicron was first detected in Botswana, it was as if Dr Nicole Ramlachans worst nightmare had come true. For the past eight months the geneticist and associate professor at UTT had been warning that if there wasnt an uptick in vaccination rates, the chances of the virus mutating would be higher. Her fears were confirmed on November 26 when the World Health Organisation officially declared Omicron a variant of concern. Farleymania erupted in Scarborough yesterday as Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP) deputy leader Farley Chavez Augustine was sworn in as Tobago House of Assembly (THA) Chief Secretary. Supporters came out early in the capital wearing their PDP T-shirts and waving flags, as they sang, Farley, Farley, Farley! and mobbed him when he arrived at the Assembly with his fiancee, Takyana Nedd. It is your duty as Prime Minister and Minister of Health to provide whats best for your citizens. The jabs have been provided and are still available to all who want it. But what about those who do not want it? The following is a release by the Elections and Boundaries Commission on the recount request The page youre looking for cannot be found. Check the address and spelling are correct. If youre still encountering problems, please Contact Us. Central figures in the investigation and prosecution of one of the largest state-sponsored killings in Latin America in the 20th century the El Mozote Massacre will be the recipients of an international human rights award from the University of Dayton. David Morales from Cristosal and Ovidio Mauricio Gonzalez and Wilfredo Medrano from Tutela Legal will receive the University's Romero Human Rights Award for their efforts to seek justice and accountability for current and past violence in El Salvador. Cristosal advances human rights in Central America through rights-based research, learning and programming. Morales was previously the human rights ombudsman for the government of El Salvador and now leads Cristosals Observatory on Forced Displacement by Violence covering El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. Tutela Legal, originally associated with the Archdiocese in San Salvador during Saint Romero's tenure as archbishop, was one of the key human rights agencies that archived and collected stories and evidence during El Salvador's civil war from 1979 to 1992. Tutela Legal continues to promote transitional justice and accountability for contemporary issues of state violence. On Dec. 11, 1981, soldiers in the Salvadoran army's Atlacatl Battalion, some of them trained at the U.S. Army's School of the Americas, massacred nearly 1,000 civilians in El Mozote, El Salvador, as part of the militarys "scorched earth" campaign. Official data released by the Salvadoran government in December 2017 revealed 553 of the victims were children, 80 percent of them younger than 12 years old. For more than two years, Morales, Gonzalez and Medrano have been fighting in the Salvadoran courts to hold accountable those who ordered the massacre. The honorees, selected by the University of Dayton Human Rights Center, will receive the award from University of Dayton President Eric Spina during a ceremony starting at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 11, in the Kennedy Union Boll Theatre on the University of Dayton campus. Created in 2000, the award is presented to an individual or organization promoting the dignity of all human beings and alleviating human suffering. It honors the ministry and martyrdom of Saint Romero, a Salvadoran archbishop slain while officiating at a 1980 Mass because of his vocal defense of the human rights of the poor and disenfranchised. Click here to see a list of honorees. In addition to the award ceremony, the Human Rights Center will host a free, public symposium discussing the links between past and current violence in Latin America and the rights of migrants and asylum seekers in the United States from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. in the Kennedy Union Boll Theatre. Speakers include Ashley Feasley, director of policy for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Migrant and Refugee Services; Linda Rivas, executive director and managing attorney for the Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center; Craig Hovey, director of the Ashland Center for Nonviolence and University of Dayton Human Rights Center visiting scholar; and Dayton activist and artist Gabriella Piquett. A reception will follow the ceremony nearby in the Keller Hall atrium. The reception will feature the premiere of the "American the Borderland" exhibit by University of Dayton students in the Moral Courage Project of the Human Rights Center. The students traveled to El Paso, Texas, in May 2018 to interview and photograph human rights advocates, community leaders and faith leaders about their daily struggles for the rights of migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border. See a video about the Moral Courage Project in El Paso here. For more information or interviews, contact Shawn Robinson at 937-229-3391 or srobinson@udayton.edu. Russian occupation forces violated ceasefire six times in the Joint Forces Operation (JFO) area in eastern Ukraine over the past day. The weapons banned under the Minsk agreements were used thrice. The enemy fired 120mm and 82mm mortars, antitank missile system, grenade launchers and small arms on our troops. In the zone of action of tactical force East, two attacks were launched on our positions near Novoselivka (16km west of Luhansk) and Shyrokyne (20km east of Mariupol). Today, no attacks on Ukrainian positions have been recorded the JFO Headquarters press center reports on Facebook. In addition, Russian occupation forces violated ceasefire in the zone of action of tactical force North. The invaders used 120mm mortars and grenade launchers of different systems to shell Ukrainian troops in the area of Krymske (42km north-west of Luhansk); antitank missile system near Novozvanivka (70km west of Luhansk); small arms outside Stanytsia Luhanska (16km north-east of Luhansk). No casualties among Ukrainian troops were reported. According to the intelligence, two invaders were killed on March 15. ol President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko signed a decree on the temporary introduction of a visa-free regime for the citizens of the Republic of North Macedonia when entering or transiting Ukraine from March 16, 2019 to March 15, 2020. The corresponding decree was published on the website of the head of state. "For the period from March 16, 2019 till March 15, 2020, Ukraine introduces visa-free entry to Ukraine and transit through the territory of Ukraine for the citizens of the Republic of North Macedonia if their stay in Ukraine does not exceed 90 days within 180 days," the document says. The decision was made with the aim of developing and practically implementing the principles of good-neighborly relations between Ukraine and the Republic of North Macedonia, enhancing bilateral contacts in all areas of mutual relations, and confirming intentions to continue cooperation on liberalizing the regime of mutual trips of citizens. ish Unless you are living off-the-grid and completely isolated from civilization like this Russian family, the utter necessity of money is a fact of life. Most of our younger days are dedicated to obtaining skills that will help us earn this essential item. While we spend at least five to six days a week working to make a living, there are people who either through lucky circumstances or by taking the risk at the right time hit jackpots. Here are some of those people who became millionaires in unexpected ways. 1. In 2016, to prove to her husband that lottery tickets are a waste of money, a woman named Glenda Blackwell brought a $10 Carolina Millions scratch-off ticket. She ended up winning $1 million. After becoming exasperated at her husband Buddy when he asked her to buy him Powerball tickets, 57-year-old Blackwell from Leicester, North Carolina, decided to do something ugly and buy a scratch-off to show him they didnt hit. She had to, however, eat her own words when she quite unexpectedly won. She decided to buy a house and some land and help out her daughter as well as put some money away for her two granddaughters college fees. (source) 2. There is a seven-year-old boy who has been reviewing toys on YouTube since he was a toddler. He earns $22 million per year from his videos and his product line at Walmart. He is ranked the highest-paid YouTuber in 2018. After watching toy review channels on YouTube, Ryan asked his mother, How come Im not on YouTube when all the other kids are? He began his vlogging career in March 2015, and his mother quit her job as a high school chemistry teacher to work full-time making review videos. In 2017, his parents signed up with a childrens media startup called Pocket.watch for marketing and merchandise. In 2018, Ryans channel also created an app called Tag with Ryan for iOS and Android devices. The same year, the channel released a new line of toys called Ryans World exclusively on Walmart and on Target and later on Amazon.com. Ryans YouTube channel influenced the toy world just the way PewDiePie, a Swedish comedian and video game player-commentator, influenced video games. As of February 2019, one of Ryans videos titled Huge Eggs Surprise Toys Challenge exceeded 1.7 billion views. From being the eighth-highest-paid YouTuber in 2016-2017 with $11 million revenue, he became the highest paid with $22 million as of 2018. (source) Advertisements 3. In 1992, while searching for a lost hammer with a metal detector, a retiree found a huge cache of Roman treasure containing 15,234 coins. The British government paid him and the landowner 1.75 million for finding it. He also found his hammer later. When farmer Peter Whatling lost his hammer, he enlisted the help of his friend, Eric Lawes, who had received a metal detector as a retirement gift. On November 16, Lawes was searching in Whatlings farmland in the village of Hoxne, Suffolk, England, when he found the hoard. It contained almost 60 pounds of gold and silver objects, 15,234 Roman coins, several silver spoons, and 200 gold objects. The archaeologists have determined that the objects were from 410 CE, the time when Britain was separating from the Roman Empire. During this upheaval in which Saxons, Angles, Picts, Visigoths, and Hunnics invaded mainland Europe, the frightened wealthy of Romano-British citizens buried their most valuable belongings so that no one would find them. As many as 40 such hoards were found in Britain so far, and the Hoxne hoard is the largest find to date. Upon receiving the handsome reward from the British government, Lawes shared the money with Whatling. The hammer was also found later and was donated to the British Museum. (source) 4. There is a woman named Ailin Graef, aka Anshe Chung, who became an actual millionaire by selling virtual real estate in the online world Second Life. Shes also referred to as the Rockefeller of Second Life. Before Linden Labs Second Life, Graef amassed fortunes on other virtual worlds like Asherons Call and Shadowbane, though none of that was converted to real-life currency. She began creating and selling custom animations on Second Life in June 2004. She used the in-game currency (Linden Dollars or L$) she earned to buy and develop virtual land. She reinvested the money to buy more land and currently owns thousands of servers worth of virtual land, most of which is rented to users. Advertisements Graef also founded her own real-world company known as Anshe Chung Studios, Ltd. which was legally incorporated in February 2006 in Hubei, China. She now employs more than 80 full-time programmers and artists. Her studio also expanded into creating virtual merchandise for various services such as the 3D chat website called IMVU whose userbase increased by 50% after her involvement with more than half the top 100 products being from her company. Graef is the first person to exceed one million in net worth from profits entirely earned inside a virtual world. (1, 2) 5. In 1975, a man named Gary Dahl became a millionaire by selling smooth rocks from Mexicos Rosarito Beach as live pets to Americans for $4 each. While living in Los Gatos, California, the advertising executive Dahl was sitting with his friends in a Bonny Doon bar listening to them complaining about their pets. He then joked that he had the perfect peta rockwhich would not require bathing, walking, feeding, and grooming. In addition to that, it would not get sick or old, be disobedient, or die. He then drafted an instruction manual full of puns and gags for a pet rock. Dahl bought the rocks for a penny each, and the straw cost next to nothing. His biggest expense was manufacturing the boxes. The official training manual was a 32-page booklet called The Care and Training of Your Pet Rock. It contained several commands that can be taught to the Pet Rock such as sit and stay which can be easily taught. The commands roll over and attack required a little bit of help from the owner. However, the commands come, stand, and shake hands were impossible to teach. For six months that year, having a pet rock was a fad that lasted until Christmas season. Though by February 1976, the sales were low, Dahl had already sold 1.5 million Pet Rocks at $4 each which made him a millionaire. (source) The world we live in is an amazing place filled with good people. In these days, when numerous headlines are flooded with negative news, there is some good news which can bring a smile to our faces. These individuals and the communities as a whole have gone that extra mile to put a smile on a persons face. Gestures like these keep humanity alive and ensure that good deeds are passed forward. Here is a list of 15 random acts of kindness by strangers that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. 1. The Ice Bucket Challenge helped the research community by funding the project that led to the discovery of a gene linked to A.L.S. The Ice Bucket Challenge, also known as the A.L.S. Ice Bucket Challenge, was a viral hit on social media in 2014. The activity involved a person having a bucket of ice and water dumped over their head by another person or by themselves. The activity was undertaken to promote awareness of the disease trophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrigs disease. The participants also donated money to the A.L.S. association to help fund their research. The challenge took the Internet by storm, and supporters were able to raise a whopping $115 million for the A.L.S. Association. The money was instrumental in funding research and development of new drugs to help people affected by the disease. The people affected by this disease undergo a rapid breakdown in their ability to control their muscle movement. The scientists have discovered NEK1, the gene responsible for causing this disease. The discovery was a result of a global, gene-sequencing effort involving 11 countries and 80 researchers called Project MinE. The challenge allowed the researchers to invest around $1 million in Project MinE. (1, 2) 2. A nearly defunct train station in Japan had plans to close but noticed a student was the only one using it. They decided to close once the student graduated from high school. The Hokkaido Railway Co. decided to keep a defunct railway station open for a lone passenger, a teenage girl. The train would stop two times at Kyu-shirataki Station to help the teenage girl commute to her school located about 35 minutes away from the station. It would stop each morning to pick her up and drop her off at home in the evening. The Japanese train firm had decided to shut down its operation in the city owing to low ridership. However, the company decided to keep this station open until the teenage girl graduated from school. The dedication of the company was immensely appreciated by the general public and netizens. Finally, on March 25, 2016, this journey came to a bittersweet end when the teenage girl graduated from school. The local residents and reporters gathered around the station to watch the train pull in for the last time. It received a warm adieu, and the staff members were thanked for their service. (1, 2) Advertisements 3. NASA happily reported that the Earth is much greener with more trees than 20 years ago. The change was attributed to extensive tree plantation drives thanks to China and India. NASA had recently reported that the Earth is much greener than it used to be 20 years ago. The green change has been attributed to India and China, the two emerging economies with a large population. The two nations have increasingly stressed the importance of tree planting that has led to this effect. China has garnered much attention with its ambitious tree-planting program to curb air pollution. In 2017, India broke its own record after volunteers planted a staggering 66 million saplings in just 12 hours. The greenling phenomenon was first observed by researchers using satellite data. The satellite images that were taken 20 years ago were compared with recent images. NASA researchers observed that China and India account for one-third of the greening with only 9% of the planets land area covered in vegetation. Furthermore, the greening in both nations has also been attributed to intensive crop cultivation as well. (1, 2) 4. The automobile giant Volvo created a three-point seatbelt but specifically gave away the patent and information so that it could be used to save as many lives as possible. Car manufacturing giant Volvo is considered to be a pioneer in creating safe cars. The company has built its reputation by selling safer cars, and they are credited with giving away their most important safety device. The three-point safety belt was a universal modern seat belt designed by Volvo engineer Nils Bohlin in 1959. The companys engineer invented a seat belt that fit over a drivers torso as well as their lap. Prior to its discovery, many companies used a simple, two-point waist restraint that did more harm than good in the event of a collision. This safe invention could have fetched the company a fortune if it had been patented. However, as a noble gesture, the company refrained from patenting the essential discovery as it was considered to be a free life-saving tool rather than a profit device. Nils Bohlin continued to redefine safety in cars by working on side-impact protection and rear seat belts. For his outstanding contribution, he was awarded a gold medal from the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Science and inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame. (source) Advertisements 5. A grocery store in Canada was unintentionally left unlocked and unattended on a national holiday. The only things taken were two packages of cherry tomatoes for which the person left $5 at the checkout, and the person had actually overpaid. An unmanned store can be a looters paradise, however, a Canadian grocery store begs to differ. The Food Basics, a grocery store in Kingston, Ontario, was left unlocked on a Family Day. Family Day is a Canadian national holiday celebrated in February each year. Many customers who walked into the store were surprised to find the store open but without any employees. A customer had shopped for two packages of cherry tomatoes and left $5 cash on the counter. A few customers alerted the local police who arrived at the spot. The cops contacted the store manager who found nothing was missing from the store. The store manager was astonished to find the products intact. They also found cash and an IOU note. It was later found that the customer had, in fact, paid extra for his packages of tomatoes. (1, 2) 6. An Iranian weightlifting champion auctioned off his Olympic gold medal to help raise money for earthquake victims. He specified that the medal belonged to his people. In a heart-moving gesture, an Olympic gold medallist auctioned his medal to raise funds for earthquake victims. Kianoush Rostami, an Iranian Olympic weightlifter, bagged the gold medal by setting a new world record at the 2016 Rio Olympic games. In 2017, Iran was hit by a 7.3 magnitude earthquake that caused widespread damage and loss of lives. The Iranian weightlifter came forward and auctioned off his Rio 2016 Olympics gold medal. He also announced that the proceeds from the auction will be used to help people affected by the earthquake. The weightlifter further announced that the medal belonged to his people. The announcement from the weightlifter received a lot of praise from the countrys citizens and from the global community as well. (1, 2) 7. A Cleveland fine-dining restaurant that hires ex-convicts has given over 165 former criminals a second chance in life. So far, 90% of them are employed, and none have re-offended. A spark of a good deed can bring about a major transformation in the world has been proved true by a fine dining restaurant. The Edwins Restaurant located in Cleveland Shaker Square is well-known for its fine French cuisine. The most important and fascinating fact about this restaurant is that it is entirely run by ex-offenders. The trainees are part of the restaurants six-month Restaurant and Leadership Training Program. The program was conceived by Brandon Chrostowski, a chef, and veteran of elite restaurants in Chicago in 2004. He spent nearly six years perfecting the pedagogy since its opening in 2013. The ex-offenders are provided training on cooking, knife skills, and white-tablecloth service. The program has been crafted to equip them with the skills and confidence to rediscover their life. To this date, over 165 ex-offenders have graduated from this program since its conception. Chrostowski proudly states that more than 90% of them are employed, and none of them have returned to prison. (1, 2) The rally in the center of the Ukrainian capital on March 16 was called by the National Corps, the political wing of the Azov battalion. Several hundred people have gathered in Kyiv at a protest organized by a far-right group to call for arrests of figures linked to an alleged military corruption scandal. The rally in the center of the Ukrainian capital on March 16 was called by the National Corps, the political wing of the Azov battalion, RFE/RL reported. In its annual human rights report earlier this week, the U.S. State Department referred to the National Corps as a "nationalist hate group." Read alsoU.S. diplomats issue alert over National Corps rally in Kyiv scheduled for March 16 The rally follows a recent media investigation that detailed alleged embezzlement schemes in Ukraine's military industry, including a factory controlled by President Petro Poroshenko. Most of the crowd at the rally later marched to the presidential administration, site of scuffles with police in riot gear a week ago. Protesters this time hurled stuffed toy pigs at police. The protesters have called Poroshenko a "pig farmer" for what they say is his courting of corrupt officials. The investigation on media outlet Bihus.Info's program Nashi Hroshi alleged that Ihor Hladkovskyy, the son of close Poroshenko ally Oleh Hladkovskyy, who is deputy secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, organized a ring to smuggle spare military equipment from Russia in 2015, a year after Moscow seized Ukraine's Crimea region and threw its support behind militant separatists in the eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk. The report alleged that state defense facilities purchased the smuggled spare parts from private companies linked to Ihor Hladkovskyy and his friends at highly inflated prices. It claimed that Ukroboronprom, the state concern that supervises defense-industry production facilities, knew the origin of the smuggled parts but agreed to buy them. The report also alleged that Ihor Hladkovskyy and his two associates illegally earned at least 250 million hryvnyas ($9.2 million) by smuggling the items from Russia through three major private firms, one of which belonged to Poroshenko at the time. A day after the investigative report was broadcast on YouTube on February 25, Poroshenko suspended Oleh Hladkovskyy from his post and two days later announced that a probe has been launched into the allegations. On March 4, Poroshenko fired Hladkovskyy. UNIAN assumes such an unexpected report on the official website of the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine regarding the refutation of the previously provided information is associated with an ambiguous perception of Serhiy Semochko's personality in the society. The Foreign Intelligence Service (FIS) of Ukraine has refuted the information regarding its leadership, which was previously provided to the UNIAN news agency. The report published on the official website of the service says the FIS allegedly did not provide a comment to UNIAN that two first deputies had been authorized to co-chair the agency until a new chief was appointed by the president of Ukraine. At the same time, at about 10:00 on March 15, a telephone conversation took place between an UNIAN correspondent and the press service of the FIS, which was recorded on a dictaphone. Read alsoControversial chief to co-chair Ukraine's foreign intel agency until new head appointed During the conversation, answering the question of whether someone would perform the duties of the chairman of the service until the relevant presidential decree appointing the chairman of the Foreign Intelligence Service was issued, a person who introduced himself as the service's press officer said: "We have two first deputies, they are authorized to serve as chairmen of the service in their respective areas." "As for the leadership of the service, it is in place. There are two first deputies who are authorized to serve as chairmen of the service in their respective areas," the press officer repeated. Answering the clarifying question of the correspondent whether two first deputies, Andrii Alieksieienko and Serhiy Semochko, have equal rights, the representative of the service said: "Yes." UNIAN assumes such an unexpected report on the official website of the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine regarding the refutation of the previously provided information is associated with an ambiguous perception of Serhiy Semochko's personality in the society. As UNIAN reported earlier, investigative journalists established facts that may prove Semochko's ties with Russia via his family members and the "aggressor state might have paid this official for information from him." Nashi Groshi journalists found evidence that Semochko owns real estate worth over UAH 200 million (US$7.4 million), while his family members, namely his common-law wife and her daughter, have Russian citizenship and run a business in Russian-occupied Crimea. What is more, while Semochko was in office, counterintelligence officers demanded bribes from pharmaceutical companies. A pretrial investigation was launched on the basis of the facts and an investigator requested access to mobile billing records of the suspect, who is charged with treason, and his relatives. On October 3, 2018, the National Anti-corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) opened a criminal case under Part 3 of Article 368-2 (illegal enrichment) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. On December 16, 2018, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said he would decide on Semochko's dismissal after the counterintelligence department of the SBU Security Service of Ukraine completed its investigation. On January 24, 2019, the then head of Ukraine's Foreign Intelligence Service Yehor Bozhok told a Ukrainian media outlet that Semochko was denied access to state secrets. On March 14, 2019, Poroshenko dismissed Bozhok from the post he had held since September 2017. The solidarity and unity of Ukraine's friends and partners are the key to the effectiveness of sanctions against the Russian Federation, Klimkin said. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin has commented on the decisions of the European Union, the United States and Canada to impose sanctions in response to Russia's continued aggressive acts against Ukraine. Read alsoTrump extends Russia sanctions over Crimea for another year "The solidarity and unity of our friends and partners are the key to the effectiveness of sanctions against the Russian Federation. Today, the civilized world has once again confirmed that Russia will not get away with aggression against Ukraine and violation of international law," he wrote on Twitter on March 15, commenting on the words of U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo about the coordinated action of the United States, EU and Canada to impose sanctions in response to Russia's continued aggressive acts against Ukraine. As UNIAN reported earlier, the European Council on March 15 added eight Russian officials to the list of those subject to restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. At the same time, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) on Friday, March 15, designated six Russian individuals and eight entities in response to Russia's continued and ongoing aggression in Ukraine, including in the Kerch Strait. In turn, Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Chrystia Freeland announced sanctions on 114 individuals and 15 entities, under the Special Economic Measures Act. Crimea has become a bridgehead for the Russian armed forces striving to control the whole Black Sea region and thus to cement Russian influence in the wider area. Five years ago today, on March 16, 2014, Russia stage-managed a sham referendum in Crimea and two days later illegally annexed the peninsula, Minister of Foreign Affairs Sven Mikser (SDE) wrote in a statement published on Saturday morning. "This March marks the fifth anniversary of the illegal annexation of the Crimean Peninsula by Russia," Mr. Mikser wrote, according to ERR News, the English-language service of Estonian Public Broadcasting. "We strongly condemn this act, which ignored both the Ukrainian constitution and the will of the people, and poses a serious threat to European security and the international rule of law. To Estonia, Crimea is and will remain part of Ukraine," he said. Read alsoUkraine at UNSC: Issue of Crimea de-occupation should be included in Minsk negotiation process Since its occupation of the peninsula, Russia has extended its military presence on a massive scale. "Crimea has become a bridgehead for the Russian armed forces striving to control the whole Black Sea region and thus to cement Russian influence in the wider area," Mr. Mikser added. Estonia condemns the violations of international law committed in Crimea by the Russian Federation, including the forced recruitment of locals into the army, the forced adoption of Russian citizenship, the seizure of property and the restriction of Crimeans' freedom of speech and religion. In five years of occupation, the humanitarian situation in Crimea has deteriorated, Mr. Mikser went on to write. "Every person who does not like the Russian annexation is in danger. Particular pressure is applied to the Crimean Tatars that were persecuted and deported by Moscow already in the Soviet era," he wrote. The minister also reaffirmed Estonia's condemnation of Russia's unjustified use of military force against ships and personnel of the Ukrainian Navy in the Kerch Strait on November 25 last year. "That was a blatant breach of international law, Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity caused directly by the occupation of Crimea. Russia's escalation of tensions in the Azov Sea region poses a clear threat to security in all of Europe," Mr. Mikser wrote. He further said that Estonia's support of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine is "steadfast" and that violations of international law must have consequences. "We support the policy of not recognizing the annexation of Crimea, including the continuation and revision of sanctions and the release of those illegally imprisoned. It is of vital importance to ensure that international organizations have access to Crimea," Mr. Mikser wrote. The situation of the Crimean Tatar Turks, the indigenous people of Crimea, continues to be a priority for Turkey. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey has reiterated its non-recognition of Crimea annexation by the Russian Federation. Read alsoEstonian FM Mikser: Crimea is and will remain part of Ukraine media "Ukraine's Autonomous Republic of Crimea was annexed by the Russian Federation, in violation of international law, based on an illegitimate referendum held five years ago today (16 March)," the ministry said in a press release regarding the fifth anniversary of the illegal annexation of Crimea. "On this occasion, we reiterate that we do not recognize the de-facto situation caused by this act and reaffirm our support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine," reads the report. "The situation of the Crimean Tatar Turks, the indigenous people of Crimea, continues to be a priority for us. We will continue to support Crimean Tatars to live in peace and safely in their historic homeland, preserving their identity," the ministry added. UNIAN memo. Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimea in March 2014 after its troops had occupied the peninsula. An illegal referendum was held for Crimeans to decide on accession to Russia. De-facto Crimean authorities reported that allegedly 96.77% of the Crimean population had voted for joining Russia. On March 18, 2014, the so-called agreement on the accession of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol to Russia was signed in the Kremlin. The West did not recognize the annexation in response to which sanctions against Russia were introduced. Ukraine's parliament voted to designate February 20, 2014, as the official date when the temporary occupation of Crimea began. Five years ago, Russia organized an illegitimate referendum on the annexation of Crimea. The U.S. Embassy in Ukraine has said the United States does not and will not recognize the Kremlin's control of Crimea. Read alsoUkraine at UNSC: Issue of Crimea de-occupation should be included in Minsk negotiation process "Five years ago, Russia organized an illegitimate referendum on the annexation of Crimea. The United States does not and will not recognize the Kremlin's control of Crimea. We expressed clear and unwavering U.S. support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity during the visit of the USS Donald Cook to Odesa," the embassy wrote on Facebook, posting a video statement by United States Special Representative for Ukraine Negotiations Kurt Volker. UNIAN memo. Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimea in March 2014 after its troops had occupied the peninsula. An illegal referendum was held for Crimeans to decide on accession to Russia. De-facto Crimean authorities reported that allegedly 96.77% of the Crimean population had voted for joining Russia. On March 18, 2014, the so-called agreement on the accession of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol to Russia was signed in the Kremlin. The West did not recognize the annexation in response to which sanctions against Russia were introduced. Ukraine's parliament voted to designate February 20, 2014, as the official date when the temporary occupation of Crimea began. The president thanked the Government and Prime Minister of Ukraine Volodymyr Groysman, who responded to his proposal and made the relevant submission. Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has dismissed Valeriy Holovko as Chairman of Poltava Regional State Administration. "Today, here in Poltava, I want to announce that I have signed the relevant decree on the dismissal of Mr. Holovko," Poroshenko said during a speech at the meeting of the Regional Development Council of Poltava region, according to the president's press service. Read alsoPoroshenko initiates dismissal of Poltava officials The president thanked the Government and Prime Minister of Ukraine Volodymyr Groysman, who responded to his proposal and made the relevant submission. "As you know, at the beginning of this week, I have appealed to the Cabinet of Ministers with a proposal to make a submission to the president of Ukraine on the dismissal of Chairman of Poltava Regional State Administration Valeriy Holovko. Why? Because the National Anti-corruption Bureau has serious claims and reasonable suspicions against him," Poroshenko said. According to the president, it would be better for Mr. Holovko not to hold high public office for an objective investigation. "This is a reasonable decision that should become a model for such occasions. This concerns trust of people. Nobody will use the 'government umbrella' to obstruct the investigation," Poroshenko said. At the same time, the president stressed that the court has the upper hand: "It is only the court that can define the level of criminal liability of a person and we must create conditions for any investigation to enjoy people's trust. The issue of political will in the fight against corruption is an absolute principle for us," he said. Rinkevics reaffirmed Latvia's unwavering position that Crimea is an integral part of Ukraine. Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics has said his country will continue support territorial integrity of Ukraine. Read alsoTurkey reiterates its non-recognition of Crimea annexation by Russia "On the 5th Anniversary of so called referendum organized by Russia and illegal occupation & annexation of Ukraine's Crimea I reaffirm Latvia's unwavering position that Crimea is an integral part of Ukraine, we'll continue support territorial integrity of Ukraine," he wrote on Twitter on March 16, 2019. UNIAN memo. Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimea in March 2014 after its troops had occupied the peninsula. An illegal referendum was held for Crimeans to decide on accession to Russia. De-facto Crimean authorities reported that allegedly 96.77% of the Crimean population had voted for joining Russia. On March 18, 2014, the so-called agreement on the accession of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol to Russia was signed in the Kremlin. The West did not recognize the annexation in response to which sanctions against Russia were introduced. Ukraine's parliament voted to designate February 20, 2014, as the official date when the temporary occupation of Crimea began. In the run-up to presidential elections in which national security is a top issue, the country is strengthening the border with Russian-annexed Crimea and with the breakaway Transnistrian region of Moldova. Ukraine has intensified its military presence on the border with Moldova's breakaway region of Transnistria and on the administrative border with Russian-annexed Crimea ahead of presidential elections due on March 31. The Kyiv authorities took these precautionary measures as Russia stations about 1,500 soldiers in the region of Transnistria, as reported by BalkanInsight. Border Service of Ukraine spokesman Oleh Slobodyan said additional controls will be installed on the Transnistrian border next week. This will include border guards, national police and aviation activities. Read alsoViolent provocations possible in occupied Donetsk on Ukraine election day OSINT expert In the presidential elections taking place in Ukraine on March 31, military and security issues are top priorities for all the candidates. In the past few years, Ukraine has intensified an economic blockade on Russian-run Transnistria. It has also became more involved efforts to solve the frozen conflict between Moldova and the secessionist regime in Tiraspol, which is backed by Moscow. The frozen conflict dates back to the Transnistrian conflict of 1991-1992, which left about 1,000 people dead and over 1,500 wounded. Russia sent in peacekeepers to end fighting between pro-Russian separatists and Moldovan forces, who never left, despite Moldovan requests for Russia to withdraw its forces from Moldovan territory. Ukraine fears a repeat scenario of what happened in 2014 in Crimea in its southern region of Odesa, which is close to Transnistria. Russia annexed Crimea in March 2014 after deploying so-called "green men" in the area Russian soldiers with no inscriptions, uniforms or tags. Soon after the Crimean annexation, an armed conflict erupted in eastern Ukraine in the Donbas and Lugansk areas. There were no Ukrainian army casualties. Russian-led forces mounted six attacks on Ukrainian troops in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, in the past 24 hours. Read alsoTwo members of Russia-led forces eliminated by Ukrainian troops in Donbas (Photo) "No Ukrainian army casualties were reported in the past day. According to intelligence reports, two invaders were killed," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation said in an update on Facebook as of 07:00 Kyiv time on March 16, 2019. During the period under review, the Russian occupation forces opened fire from 120mm and 82mm mortars, an anti-tank missile system, grenade launchers of various types and small arms to attack the Ukrainian positions near the villages of Novoselivka Druha, Shyrokyne, Krymske, Novozvanivka, and Stanytsia Luhanska. "Since Saturday midnight, Russian-led forces haven't attacked Ukrainian positions yet," the report said. The situation in the area of the Joint Forces Operation remains under control of Ukrainian troops. Russia's hybrid military forces mounted two attacks on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas on March 16, with one Ukrainian soldier reported as killed in action and another one as wounded in action. Read alsoUkraine reports six enemy attacks in Donbas in past day "One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another one was wounded from 00:00 to 18:00 Kyiv time. Information on the enemy's losses is being clarified," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation (JFO) said in an update on Facebook. The enemy opened fire from 82mm mortars, grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns and small arms at the Ukrainian positions near the village of Khutir Vilniy. The situation in the area of the Joint Forces Operation remains under control of Ukrainian troops. Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi denounced any cowardly terror attack against humanity and called for a minutes silence at the opening of an event in Aswan on Saturday, to mark the mass shootings at two New Zealand mosques the day before. The attacks killed 49 people, including four Egyptians. We are against all violence, we are against all terrorism, El-Sisi said in an address to an event held on the sidelines of the Arab and African Youth Platform in Aswan to celebrate the country's 2019 chairmanship of African Union. During his speech, El-Sisi welcomed attendees to Egypt, which he said is a meeting point between the west and east, and the south and north. In Egypt, we have put our youths as a priority to provide care and support them with for a better future for the continent, El-Sisi said, highlighting various forums which are common spaces to discuss our differences in a civilised way. The Arab and African Youth Platform, which is running from 16 to 18 March, is being held as part of the recommendations of last years World Youth Forum. The platform will focus on a number of issues of interest to Arab and African youth, in light of Egypts chairmanship of the African Union. It will include sessions, workshops, and roundtables with youth leaders and decision makers in an open dialogue. Aswan was announced by El-Sisi at the World Youth Forum as the capital for African youth in 2019. Search Keywords: Short link: October 6 2014 The Scottish Prisons Service is inviting tenders for the design and construction of a 350 place prison in Greenock HMP Inverclyde will focus exclusively on female offenders offering a range of supporting facilities, replacing the existing Cornton Vale jail near Stirling which is scheduled to close.Specialised features of the new prison will include mother and baby units, full kitchens to encourage independent living and the removal of grille gates from cells.Built on the site of the former St Columbas High School on Inverkip Road the 60m prison has seen outline designs prepared by HLM Architects.HMP Greenock, which was originally to have closed, has been granted a reprieve following the decision to make HMP Inverclyde women-only. Venezuelan Oil Minister Manuel Quevedo, who also heads the state-owned PDVSA energy company, will take part in the upcoming meeting of OPEC and non-cartel producers in the Azerbaijani capital of Baku, the press secretary of the Azerbaijani Energy Ministry, Zamina Aliyeva, told Sputnik on Saturday BAKU (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 16th March, 2019) Venezuelan Oil Minister Manuel Quevedo, who also heads the state-owned PDVSA energy company, will take part in the upcoming meeting of OPEC and non-cartel producers in the Azerbaijani capital of Baku, the press secretary of the Azerbaijani Energy Ministry, Zamina Aliyeva, told Sputnik on Saturday. While the Joint Technical Committee will hold a meeting on Sunday, the Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee will convene on Monday. Bilateral meetings and an informal dinner are also on the agenda. "Manuel Quevedo Fernandez, the Venezuelan oil minister and the head of the state oil company PDVSA, will take part in the meeting," Aliyeva said. The Kingdom of Bahrain has strongly condemned the terrorist attack at two Christchurch mosques, in New Zealand, which left a number of people dead and others injured MANAMA, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 16th Mar, 2019) The Kingdom of Bahrain has strongly condemned the terrorist attack at two Christchurch mosques, in New Zealand, which left a number of people dead and others injured. In a statement, the Bahraini Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed it sincere condolences to the government of New Zealand and to the families of the victims as well as wishes for speedy recovery to the injured. The ministry has affirmed full solidarity with New Zealand in its confrontation with terrorism and extremism and its support for all measures taken by the government of New Zealand to safeguard its security and ensure the safety of its nationals and residents. (@ChaudhryMAli88) The UAE-Kyrgyzstan Joint Economic Committees first meeting was held in Bishkek today and co-chaired by Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister of Economy, and Zhenish Razakov, Deputy Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan BISHKEK, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 16th Mar, 2019) The UAE-Kyrgyzstan Joint Economic Committees first meeting was held in Bishkek today and co-chaired by Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister of Economy, and Zhenish Razakov, Deputy Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan. High on the meeting's agenda are several programmes and mechanisms to boost cooperation in 13 vital sectors, including trade, investment, Halal industry, financial services, industrial cooperation, SMEs, innovation, technology, agriculture and animal resources, transport and civil aviation, tourism, education and renewable energy. Attending from the UAE side were Mohammed Hareb Balrassa, UAE's Non-Resident Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan, Mohammed bin Abdul Aziz Al Shehhi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy for Economic Affairs, and a number of officials. Bilateral trade between the UAE and Kyrgyzstan reached US$310 million in 2017. Representatives of the government of the Central African Republic (CAR) and armed opposition groups have confirmed their attendance at a consultation meeting on the country's peace settlement, Smail Chergui, the African Union (AU)'s peace and security commissioner, told Sputnik on Saturday MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 16th March, 2019) Representatives of the government of the Central African Republic (CAR) and armed opposition groups have confirmed their attendance at a consultation meeting on the country's peace settlement, Smail Chergui, the African Union (AU)'s peace and security commissioner, told Sputnik on Saturday. "Everybody will come, and hopefully we can quickly address all the issues at hand. Everybody will be at this meeting all of them," Chergui said. The car government and 14 armed groups signed a peace agreement after 10 days of talks in the Sudanese capital of Khartoum in early February. CAR President Faustin Archange Touadera did a cabinet reshuffle on March 3, which Moussa Faki Mahamat, the AU Commission chairman, described as a "step toward inclusive and representative governance in the CAR." Last week the AU announced that it would convene a consultation meeting of the deal's stakeholders in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa on March 18 to follow up on the progress that has been made since the deal was signed. The upcoming consultation meeting on the peace process in the Central African Republic (CAR) will address outstanding concerns about government formation and security arrangements, Smail Chergui, the African Union (AU)'s peace and security commissioner, told Sputnik on Saturday MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 16th March, 2019) The upcoming consultation meeting on the peace process in the Central African Republic (CAR) will address outstanding concerns about government formation and security arrangements, Smail Chergui, the African Union (AU)'s peace and security commissioner, told Sputnik on Saturday. The AU-organized meeting will be held in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa on Monday. It is expected to follow up on the progress that has been made since the car government and 14 armed groups signed a peace agreement in early February. "As you know, some movements raised the issue of the formation of the government ... This meeting really is to get stock, one month after we sign the agreement, of where we are and also address these issues and also take additional measures in implementing other articles, mainly those relating to the security arrangements in terms of deploying the security unit on the ground, and so on," Chergui said. The commissioner added that the implementation of this agreement on CAR peace settlement appeared to be more successful than of the previous agreements. "I think it's more or less ... positive way that we are dealing with the matter this time compared to the former agreements," Chergui said. He added that the meeting would last for as long as necessary. "Whatever is needed. We are starting on Monday, March 18, and [the meeting will] certainly [continue on] Tuesday, March 19, and hopefully we can address all the matters," Chergui said. The Central African Republic has been suffering from a drawn-out conflict since a coup in 2013. Much of the fighting in recent years has been between Muslim-majority Seleka and Christian Anti-Balaka militias. ATHENS (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 17th March, 2019) The gunman who perpetrated fatal shootings at two mosques in New Zealand visited Greece twice, and the Greek authorities are looking for traces of his stay in the country, local media reported. The violent shooting in two mosques rocked New Zealand's eastern city of Christchurch on Friday, leaving 49 killed and dozens injured. New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern called the shooting a terrorist act, saying it was the country's "darkest day." A total of three people were detained in the wake of the attack, including the 28-year-old suspected shooter, Australian national Brenton Harrison Tarrant. According to Skai broadcaster, besides Turkey and Bulgaria Tarrant visited Greece in 2016. In early 2016, the Australian national arrived in Athens from Cairo and then headed to Bucharest. Afterwards, he returned back to Cairo via Athens. Tarrant's second trip to Greece was in March 2016, and he stayed in Greece for about 15 days, the broadcaster said citing Interpol. According to Alpha broadcaster, the Greek authorities made sure that the shooter had arrived at the Athens International Airport. They are now trying to find out whether he visited any other cities in Greece. The Greek authorities believe that he may have traveled to some Greek city by bus. Tarrant also made a big trip across the Balkans by bus. The broadcaster notes that one word on the shooter's rifle has attracted the attention of the authorities Lepanto. This was the name of the modern city of Nafpaktos, where the famous naval Battle of Lepanto took place in 1571. On Saturday, a court in New Zealand ruled to remand the suspected shooter in custody until April 5, while the police said they expected further charges to be brought against him. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy improved median OS including T2 patients in SWOG-8710 1 . Accelerated/ddMVAC phase II trials and retrospective studies included T2 stage . Accelerated/ddMVAC phase II trials and retrospective studies included T2 stage There is no molecular biomarker with proven clinical utility as of yet Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is routine practice, overall safe, with a manageable side effect profile with no negative impact on surgical morbidity or morbidity. There is a risk of broader under-utilization of neoadjuvant chemotherapy if we start splitting airs Posed in a question form: Are you comfortable depriving life-prolonging therapy of level I evidence, from large randomized phase III trials and meta-analyses from your patients? Until molecular profiling (eg. DDR gene mutations/GEP) may enable better patient selection in the future, we need to follow the current standard of care Barcelona, Spain (UroToday.com) In the Common Problems in Muscle Invasive and Advanced Bladder Cancer: Evidence-Based Debates session at the 2019 European Association of Urology meeting EAU 2019, Dr. Marek Babjukpresented the following case to facilitate the debate between Drs. Kassouf and Grivas titled: "In a patient who is pure UC, T2 disease; good GFR, should I go straight to radical cystectomy without neoadjuvant chemotherapy?" The patient case was as follows: 74 year-old-man, with a long-standing smoking history (otherwise healthy), normal renal function, who developed gross hematuria. He subsequently had a cystoscopy which demonstrated a 4-cm exophytic tumor on the left bladder wall and cytology positive for high-grade urothelial carcinoma. Upper tract imaging was negative and he was taken for a TURBT, which demonstrated T2 urothelial carcinoma, high-grade.Dr. Grivas provided the rebuttal to Dr. Kassoufs stance in favor of immediate radical cystectomy for T2 urothelial carcinoma by advocating for neoadjuvant chemotherapy prior to radical cystectomy. Looking again at the SWOG-8710 trial, Dr. Grivas argues that neoadjuvant chemotherapy does, in fact, have benefit for T2 disease. There was a 30-month improvement in median OS (105 vs 75 months) for T2 stage disease, which in his opinion is comparable to patients with T3-T4a disease. Importantly, among the T2 patients included, in addition to a clear OS benefit, there was no higher toxicity or complication rates in these patients. Furthermore, there are no biomarkers for patient selection in these instances.Dr. Grivas opinion of the EORTC 30894 (MRC) trial is much different than Dr. Kassoufs in that T2 patients had an OS benefit, with no T2 patients showing increased toxicity or complications. Once again, he cautions that there is no path stage ascertaining in patients who do not get a radical cystectomy and there are no biomarkers to guide treatment selection. Furthermore, in the ddMVAC trial by Plimack et al., 36% of patients were cT2N0M0. Overall, 38% demonstrated pT0 at cystectomy, and another 14% were downstaged to nonmuscle invasive disease. Amongst cT2 patients, Dr. Grivas does caution that inaccurate staging very common.Dr. Grivas concluded with several important take-home messages, defending the case for neoadjuvant chemotherapy among T2 bladder urothelial carcinoma patients.Presented by: Professor Marek Babjuk, CSc, Motol Hospital, and Charles University, Prague, Czech RepublicPetros Grivas, MD, PhD, medical oncologist at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Clinical Director, Genitourinary Cancers Program, University of Washington Medicine, Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, University of Washington School of Medicine, WashingtonWritten by: Zachary Klaassen, MD, MSc Assistant Professor of Urology, Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University - Medical College of Georgia Twitter: @zklaassen_md at the 34th European Association of Urology (EAU 2019) #EAU19 conference in Barcelona, Spain, March 15-19, 2019. References:Further Related Content:Read the Opposing Argument - Immediate Radical Cystectomy: In a Patient Who is Pure Urothelial Carcinoma T2 Disease with Good GFR The majority of patients recruited to the neoadjuvant chemotherapy trials were <65 years of age and as such the benefits of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in low-risk septuagenarians is unknown The risk/benefit ratio for neoadjuvant chemotherapy is in the high-risk tumors, considering that patients with cT2, complete TUR, and no hydronephrosis have excellent survival with immediate cystectomy, despite the risk of upstaging Outside of clinical trials, 30% of septuagenarians may not complete neoadjuvant chemotherapy Barcelona, Spain (UroToday.com) In the Common Problems in Muscle Invasive and Advanced Bladder Cancer: Evidence-Based Debates session at the 2019 European Association of Urology meeting EAU 2019, Dr. Marek Babjukpresented the following case to facilitate the debate between Drs. Kassouf and Grivas titled: "In a patient who is pure UC, T2 disease; good GFR, should I go straight to radical cystectomy without neoadjuvant chemotherapy?" The patient case was as follows: 74 year-old-man, with a long-standing smoking history (otherwise healthy), normal renal function, who developed gross hematuria. He subsequently had a cystoscopy which demonstrated a 4-cm exophytic tumor on the left bladder wall and cytology positive for high-grade urothelial carcinoma. Upper tract imaging was negative and he was taken for a TURBT, which demonstrated T2 urothelial carcinoma, high-grade.Dr. Wassim Kassouf started off his defense of immediate radical cystectomy without neoadjuvant chemotherapy by noting that the benefit, in his opinion, is modest, with an absolute improved overall survival benefit of 5% at 5 years, based on 2/11 positive randomized controlled trials (RCTs) being positive.Based off of this data, Dr. Kassouf wonders if we can apply this data safely to a 74-year-old patient. Dr. Kassouf notes that the majority of the large RCTs did not include a large number of elderly patients. For example, in the phase III international BA06 30894 trial , there were only 15% of patients that were septuagenarians. Similarly, in the SWOG-8710 study randomizing patients to immediate radical cystectomy or neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by radical cystectomy, only ~20% of patients were T2 disease and 65 years of age; amongst these patients, 33% has Grade 4 toxicity. As such, Dr. Kassouf suggests that we must extrapolate the neoadjuvant chemotherapy findings from previous RCTs with caution, considering that many of the patients in these trials were younger.Second, Dr. Kassouf questions whether low-risk patients can benefit from neoadjuvant chemotherapy (cT2, no hydronephrosis, no variant histology/lymphovascular invasion, complete TUR)? Looking at the SWOG-8710 study once again, he notes that when assessing efficacy by stage, this certainly favors T3-T4a disease much more than T2 disease:In Dr. Kassoufs opinion, it is about selecting the right patient for neoadjuvant chemotherapy. In a combined analysis of patients from USC and MD Anderson Cancer Center assessing patients that underwent radical cystectomy without neoadjuvant chemotherapy, patients were considered high-risk based on the clinical presence of hydroureteronephrosis, cT3b-T4a disease, and/or histological evidence of lymphovascular invasion, micropapillary or neuroendocrine features on transurethral resection. This study had 98 high-risk and 199 low-risk patients eligible for analysis. High-risk patients exhibited decreased 5-year OS (47.0% vs 64.8%) and decreased disease-specific (64.3% vs 83.5%) and progression-free (62.0% vs 84.1%) survival compared to low risk patients (p <0.001). In the Mayo clinic institutional study, 1,025 low and 906 high-risk patients were followed for a median 6.3 years (IQR 2.6-12), during which time 1,321 (68%) patients died, 753 (39%) from bladder cancer. High-risk patients had significantly lower 5-year CSS than low-risk patients (50% vs. 68%, p = 0.001). Neoadjuvant chemotherapy in low-risk patients was associated with greater odds of pT0 (OR 3.05; p < 0.001) and < pT2 (OR 2.53; p < 0.001) disease, but was not significantly associated with CSS (p = 0.31). In a study of 5,517 patients in the Netherlands Cancer Registry, Hermanns et al.compared complete pathological downstaging (pCD, (y)pT1N0) and OS in patients with cT2 versus cT3-4aN0M0 urothelial carcinoma undergoing radical cystectomy with or without neoadjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy. In patients with cT3-4a disease, there was a significant OS benefit (HR 0.67, 95%CI 0.51-0.89), whereas no such benefit was found among patients with cT2 disease (HR 0.91, 95%Ci 0.72-1.15). Highlighting the SWOG-8710 data again, Dr. Kassouf notes that the best case scenario for neoadjuvant chemotherapy is a 5-year OS of 85% among patients who were pT0. This is the goal, to find the patients with the best likelihood of pT0 disease after radical cystectomy.Dr. Kassouf concluded his argument for immediate cystectomy in T2 patients, by noting several take-home messages:Presented by: Professor Marek Babjuk, CSc, Motol Hospital, and Charles University, Prague, Czech RepublicWassim Kassouf, Professor, Department of Surgery in Urology, McGill University, Montreal CanadaWritten by: Zachary Klaassen, MD, MSc Assistant Professor of Urology, Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University - Medical College of Georgia Twitter: @zklaassen_md at the 34th European Association of Urology (EAU 2019) #EAU19 conference in Barcelona Spain, March 15-19, 2019. References:Further Related Content:Read the Opposing Argument - Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: In a Patient Who is Pure Urothelial Carcinoma T2 Disease with Good GFR Barcelona, Spain (UroToday.com) While cancer is generally considered a disease of the elderly, with a median age at diagnosis of 65-70 years old, roughly 1-2% bladder of all bladder cancer patients develop the disease under the age of 40. Plenary Session 1 at the 2019 European Association of Urology (EAU) annual meeting in Barcelona, Spain, focused on the unique aspects of treating younger individuals with bladder cancer. Jo Cresswell, MBBS, from South Tees Hospital in Middlesbrough, UK, spoke during this session regarding some of the surgical considerations of treating young women with bladder cancer who desire preserved fertility.She noted that while small, there is an overlap in bladder cancer incidence and fertility, with live birth rates falling significantly after the age of 40, and a <1% rate of bladder cancer diagnoses in women aged 40-44. Although rare, she acknowledged that higher volume centers will occasionally encounter younger bladder cancer patients who desire preserved fertility. She noted that there has been an increasing interest in pelvic organ-preserving surgery for those women with muscle-invasive or recurrent disease. She broke down the different types of pelvic organ-sparing cystectomy into three categories: uterine-sparing (to preserve fertility potential), ovarian-sparing (to avoid the downsides of early menopause), and vaginal-sparing / nerve-sparing (to improve post-operative sexual function).Dr. Cresswell presented data regarding uterine-sparing surgery from the last two decades and acknowledged that these are mainly case series and retrospective in nature. A systematic review from Veskimae et. Al from 2017 summarized the outcomes of uterine-sparing cystectomy and found that there appeared to be no significant improvement in post-operative sexual function, urinary function was equivalent as compared to standard anterior exenteration, and that there were no documented pregnancies after uterine-sparing procedures. Another contemporary study from the UK by Gross et. Al suggested that urinary function and continence were superior in patients undergoing uterine-sparing procedures. The study showed equivalent oncologic outcomes for uterine-sparing patients, as well.Cresswell believes that the potential for better continence is a compelling reason to consider uterine-sparing procedures in appropriately-selected patients. For those being considered for the procedure, she advocates for a careful exam under anesthesia (EUA) and bladder neck biopsies to confirm no adjacent organ involvement or bladder neck involvement. Patients with disease that is cT2 are also ideal, as there is a decreased likelihood of local recurrence.Dr. Cresswell then touched on the possibility of pregnancy in women with bladder cancer after radical cystectomy. There are a handful of case reports showing that pregnancy is possible, albeit very rare. She concluded by advocating for the consideration of pelvic-organ sparing radical cystectomy in younger patients, mainly due to the benefits postoperatively including improved urinary function, sexual function, and avoidance of the risks of early menopause. She acknowledges that further studies are needed on the topic of pelvic organ-sparing surgery in women undergoing radical cystectomy to better clarify the potential benefits.Presented by: Joanne Cresswell, MBBS, MRCS, FRCS(Urol), PhD, South Tees Hospital, Middlesbrough, United KingdomWritten by: Brian Kadow, MD. Society of Urologic Oncology Fellow, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at the 34th European Association of Urology (EAU 2019) #EAU19, conference in Barcelona, Spain from March 15-19, 2019 Cisplatin-based chemotherapy is the backbone treatment for unresectable or metastatic urothelial carcinoma For cisplatin-ineligible patients, PD-L1 negative patients are treated with carboplatin and gemcitabine, whereas PD-L1 positive patients should have individualized therapy with pembrolizumab or atezolizumab There are ongoing future trials evaluating the role of chemotherapy + IO, IO + IO, and targeted IO The integration of systemic and focal therapy should be done only in selected patients Biomarkers are urgently needed to define the optimal systemic therapy for each patient Saxman SB, Propert KJ, Einhorn LH, et al. Long-term follow-up of a phase III intergroup study of cisplatin alone or in combination with methotrexate, vinblastine, and doxorubicin in patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma: A cooperative group study. J Clin Oncol 1997 Jul;15(7):2564-2569. Sternberg CN, de Mulder PH, Schornagel JH, et al. Randomized phase III trial of high-dose-intensity methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and cisplatin (MVAC) chemotherapy and recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor versus classic MVAC in advanced urothelial tract tumors: European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Protocol no. 30924. J Clin Oncol 2001 May 15;19(10):2638-2646. Von der Maase H, Hansen SW, Roberts JT, et al. Gemcitabine and cisplatin versus methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and cisplatin in advanced or metastatic bladder cancer: Results of a large, randomized, multinational, multicenter, phase III study. J Clin Oncol 2000 Sep;18(17):3068-3077. Bellmunt J, von der Maase H, Mead GM, et al. Randomized phase III study comparing paclitaxel/cisplatin/gemcitabine and gemcitabine/cisplatin in patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial cancer without prior systemic therapy: EORTC Intergroup Study 30987. J Clin Oncol 2012 Apr 1;30(10):1107-1113. De Santis M, Bellmunt J, Mead G, et al. Randomized phase II/III trial assessing gemcitabine/carboplatin and methotrexate/carboplatin/vinblastine in patients with advanced urothelial cancer who are unfit for cisplatin-based chemotherapy: EORTC study 30986. J Clin Oncol 2012 Jan 10;30(2):191-199. Balar AV, Castellano D, ODonnell PH, et al. First-line pembrolizumab in cisplatin-ineligible patients with locally advanced and unresectable or metastatic urothelial cancer (KEYNOTE-052): A multicentre, single-arm, phase 2 study. Lancet Oncol 2017;18(11):1483-1492. Barcelona, Spain (UroToday.com) In the Common Problems in Muscle Invasive and Advanced Bladder Cancer: Evidence-Based Debates session at the 2019 European Association of Urology meeting EAU 2019, Dr. James W. F. Catto presented the following case to facilitate the debate between Drs. Fernando Maluf and Brant Inman titled: "1 Year After Cystectomy, a Patient Develops a 2 cm PET Avid Lung Nodule, Being the Only site of Disease, What is the Best Management?" The patient case was as follows: a 69-year-old male who underwent a TURBT for grade 3, T2 urothelial carcinoma who subsequently received 3 cycles of neoadjuvant gemcitabine and cisplatin. His pathologic stage after radical cystectomy was grade 3 T3aN0R0 with 15 negative lymph nodes; 2 months thereafter he had a chest thorax/abdomen/pelvis that was negative. An 8-month post-op CT thorax demonstrated a 2-cm solitary lung metastases.Dr. Fernando Maluf from Brazil started his defense of systemic therapy in this setting by noting that we have a long history of systemic therapy. But do we have the right scheme? More than two decades ago, the phase III Intergroup study randomized 255 patients with urothelial carcinoma to receive either single-agent cisplatin or combination chemotherapy with methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and cisplatin. Long-term follow-up from this studyshowed that M-VAC is associated with a high incidence of side-effects, including grade III and IV toxicities, and a treatment-related mortality rate of 4%. Furthermore, protocol adherence was a limitation in that only 25% of patients received treatment as planned without dose reduction or treatment discontinuation. Also, there were low rates of long-term survivors in that only 3.7% of patients were alive with no evidence of disease at 6 years follow-up.Subsequently, a follow-up RCT randomized 263 patients with metastatic or advanced disease who had no prior chemotherapy to dense dose-MVAC (2-week cycles) or MVAC (4-week cycles). At a median follow-up of 38 months, on the dose-dense-MVAC arm there were 28 complete responses (CRs) (21%) and 55 partial responses (PRs) (41%), for an overall response rate of 62% (95% confidence interval [CI], 54% to 70%). On the MVAC arm, there were 12 CRs (9%) and 53 PRs (41%), for an overall response of 50%. There was no statistically significant difference in survival (p = 0.122) or time to progression (p =0.114). The 2-year progression-free survival rate was 24.7% for dose-dense-MVAC (95%CI, 17.1%-32.3%) versus 11.6% for MVAC (95%CI, 5.9%-17.4%).New chemotherapy schemes were subsequently based on platinum combinations. In 2000, von der Maase et al.reported on 405 patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma randomized 1:1 to receive GC or standard MVAC every 28 days for a maximum of six cycles. Overall survival was similar in both arms (HR 1.04, 95%CI 0.82-1.32), as were time to progressive disease (HR, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.85 to 1.30), time to treatment failure (HR, 0.89; 95% CI 0.72 to 1.10), and response rate (GC, 49%; MVAC, 46%). More GC patients completed six cycles of therapy, with fewer dose adjustments; toxic death rate was 1% in the GC arm and 3% in the MVAC arm.This subsequently leads to another generation of chemotherapy in metastatic urothelial carcinoma that tested further platinum combinations by adding a third agent. Bellmunt et al.randomized 626 patients 1:1 to receive paclitaxel/cisplatin/gemcitabine vs gemcitabine/cisplatin. After a median follow-up of 4.6 years, the median OS was 15.8 months in paclitaxel/cisplatin/gemcitabine versus 12.7 months on GC (HR 0.85; p = 0.075). OS in the subgroup of all eligible patients was significantly longer on paclitaxel/cisplatin/gemcitabine (3.2 months; HR, 0.82; P = 0.03). PFS was not significantly longer in paclitaxel/cisplatin/gemcitabine (HR, 0.87; p = 0.11), whereas overall response rate was 55.5% in paclitaxel/cisplatin/gemcitabine and 43.6% in GC (p = 0.0031). Although the addition of paclitaxel to GC provided a higher response rate and a 3.1-month OS benefit, it did not reach statistical significance and has not become mainstream.Often the issue with metastatic bladder cancer patients receiving chemotherapy are patients that are deemed unfit for cisplatin. De Santis et al.randomized 238 chemotherapy-naive patients with measurable disease and an impaired renal function (GFR < 60 but > 30 mL/min) and/or performance score of 2 to receive either gemcitabine/carboplatin or methotrexate/carboplatin/vinblastine (M-CAVI). Over a median follow-up of 4.5 years, the best ORRs were 41.2% (36.1% confirmed response) for patients receiving gemcitabine/carboplatin versus 30.3% (21.0% confirmed response) for patients receiving M-CAVI (p = 0.08). Median OS was 9.3 months in the gemcitabine/carboplatin arm and 8.1 months in the M-CAVI arm (p = 0.64). There was no difference in PFS (p = 0.78) between the two arms. More recently, the phase II KEYNOTE-052 study was also for patients ineligible for cisplatin, reporting that among 370 patients receiving at least one dose of pembrolizumab, 89 (24%, 95%CI 20-29) patients had a centrally assessed objective response, and 74 (83%) of 89 patients had ongoing responses over a median follow-up of 5 months (IQR 3.0-8.6). Additionally, a PD-L1-expression cutoff of 10% was associated with a higher frequency of response to pembrolizumab: 42 (38%, 95%CI 29-48) of 110 patients had an objective response. Updated efficacy results demonstrate durable responses in this population.Dr. Maluf concluded with several take-home messages advocating for chemotherapy in this first line setting of a 2-cm lung lesion:Presented by: Professor James Catto MB ChB Ph.D. FRCS (Urol), Department of Oncology & Metabolism, The Medical School, Sheffield, United Kingdom and Fernando Cotait Maluf, Beneficencia Portuguesa, Sao Paulo, BrazilWritten by: Zachary Klaassen, MD, MSc Assistant Professor of Urology, Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University - Medical College of Georgia Twitter: @zklaassen_md at the 34th European Association of Urology (EAU 2019) #EAU19 conference in Barcelona Spain, March 15-19, 2019. References:Read the Opposing Argument: Barcelona, Spain (UroToday.com) Though bladder cancer is typically considered a disease of the elderly, there is a small subset of patients who develop the disease earlier in life. As part of the 2019 European Association of Urology (EAU) annual meeting in Barcelona, Spain, Dr. Roland Seiler from the Department of Urology at Inselspital Hospital in Bern, Switzerland discussed the molecular aspects of bladder cancer that are unique to younger patients with the disease.Dr. Seiler began his discussion by showing that the morphological landscape of bladder cancer appears to be different in younger patients, with urothelial carcinoma being exceedingly rare in pediatric patients, while rhabdomyosarcoma, clear cell adenocarcinoma, and leiomyosarcoma being more common subtypes. To frame his discussion on the molecular differences between younger patients with bladder cancer and older patients with bladder cancer, he provided a brief review of the difference between somatic versus germline mutations. Somatic mutations are acquired during development and only affect the particular area of the body where the mutation occurred, while germline mutations occurred in the germ cells prior to fetal development. Some germline mutations confer an increased predisposition to cancer formation and are transferred to descendants.He next discussed that we do tend to see clusters of bladder cancer in some families, but it can be difficult to discern if these are due to shared risk factors, such as environmental exposures or lifestyle choices (i.e. tobacco use), or if these are due to germline mutations within the family. Seiler noted that there is scant data looking at germline mutations in bladder cancer at present. He referenced one study in which 98 bladder cancer patients had 222 cancer-related genes sequenced. The group found that most of the germline mutations within this cohort were related to DNA repair, however, Seiler cautioned that this study was not genome-wide, and was biased because of the 222 genes sequenced, many of them were DNA repair genes.Dr. Seiler next discussed the fact that there are currently no guidelines about when to refer younger patients who develop bladder cancer to genetic counseling. He believes that we can borrow guidelines about genetic counseling from other malignancies, however. He believes that if a patient is <50 years of age, or if they have >3 cases of breast, ovarian, pancreatic or prostate cancer in close relatives, that it is reasonable to offer genetic counseling.He continued the discussion by reviewing what data we currently know about the differences in somatic mutations between younger and older patients and its implications. Mainly based on work from the Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA), there are a few known somatic differences between older and younger patients with urothelial carcinoma. First, there appears to be an increase in mutational status of tumor suppressor genes RB1 and TP53, as well as higher neoantigen loads, and higher interferon-gamma signaling and chemokine signaling. Of the known molecular subtypes of urothelial carcinoma, the luminal papillary subtype appears to be more prevalent in younger patients. Interestingly, this luminal papillary subtype has several molecular features that make it potentially more likely to show an unfavorable response to checkpoint inhibition treatment.He concluded his discussion that there does appear to be both somatic and germline mutational differences in younger patients who develop bladder cancer, though the data is in its infancy. Further research is needed to clarify these differences, as the underlying genetic mutations in these malignancies may influence treatment decisions. He stressed that it is important to offer genetic counseling to any bladder cancer patient under the age of 50, and those with a strong family history of known heritable malignancies. He believes that in time, a better understanding of the genetics of bladder cancer will help us to more effectively treat our patients.Presented by: Roland Seiler, MD, Department of Urology, Inselspital, Universitatsspital Bern, Bern, SwitzerlandWritten by: Brian Kadow, MD. Society of Urologic Oncology Fellow, Fox Chase Cancer Center at the 34th European Association of Urology (EAU 2019) #EAU19 conference in Barcelona, Spain, March 15-19, 2019. Barcelona, Spain (UroToday.com) In the Common Problems in Muscle Invasive and Advanced Bladder Cancer: Evidence-Based Debates session at the 2019 European Association of Urology meeting EAU 2019, Dr. Morgan Roupret presented the following case to facilitate the debate between Drs. John Taylor and Joan Palou titled: "Case-based debate: Ileal conduit or continent diversion: Which is a better choice for most patients?" The patient case was as follows: a 69-year-old, 95 kg, male with a history of myocardial infarction and chronic renal insufficiency (CrCl 54 ml/min) with high grade localized muscle-invasive bladder cancer. In this clinical scenario, both physicians agreed in favor of a radical cystectomy with pelvic lymph node dissection as the standard of care, but then debated the reconstructive merits of incontinent cutaneous versus orthotopic continent diversion.Dr. Taylor began the session by arguing in favor of an ileal conduit urinary diversion. He stated that personalized patient-focused decision making is always necessary. However, in the majority of cases, the ileal conduit is the appropriate reconstructive technique. He used a comparison to a tank of gas, where neoadjuvant chemotherapy and cystectomy at least temporarily, lower patients functional status from their homeostasis. As patients get older in age, they typically have less reserve in their tank to bounce back to their baseline. Dr. Taylor suggested that ileal conduits, which tend to be a shorter operation with less post-operative care, can get patients back to their baseline more quickly. Following neobladder reconstruction, patients must learn how to catheterize, irrigate, and void to regain control, which is a significant commitment.In the latter part of the session, Dr. Palou argued in favor of a neobladder. First, he stated that conduits are filled with stomal complications: stenosis, retraction, and parastomal hernias. He suggested a trifecta in bladder cancer of disease-free, continence and potency, similar to prostate cancers. Dr. Palou suggested that surgeon experience and preference plays an important role in patient decision making, similar to radical versus partial nephrectomy for kidney cancer. The following may be relative contraindications and are important in patient selection: preoperative radiotherapy, complex urethral stricture disease, sphincter-related incontinence, age, comorbidities, intestinal disease, obesity, and locally advanced or node-positive disease. Studies have demonstrated good functional and oncologic outcomes comparing the standard approaches to nerve sparing or robotic procedures. Studying quality of life outcomes, continent diversions have shown superior emotional and body image outcomes compared to cutaneous diversions.In summary, there is no right answer, and each patient must be treated individually. Both physicians recommend offering the best you can do for your patients and to be there to explain, talk, clarify and repeat.Presented by: John A. Taylor, Professor, Director of Basic Urologic Research and the Co-Leader of the D3ET Program at the University of Kansas Medical Center, Department of Urology, University of Kansas Health System, Kansas City, Kansas, and Joan Palou, MD, PhD, FEBU, Chairman at the Department of Urology, Fundacio Puigvert, Barcelona, SpainWritten by: David B. Cahn, DO, MBS, @dbcahn, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Society of Urologic Oncology Fellow, Fox Chase Cancer Center at the 34th European Association of Urology (EAU 2019) #EAU19 conference in Barcelona, Spain, March 15-19, 2019. Barcelona, Spain (UroToday.com) Although fertility is uncommon after radical treatment for bladder cancer, there are several important aspects of care of these patients that urologists should be aware of. Because of the rarity of pregnancy after bladder cancer treatment, however, there is very little data to help inform decision-making. We can draw parallels, however, between patients undergoing treatment for bladder cancer, and those patients who undergo urinary diversions for alternative reasons, such as spinal cord injury, spina bifida, or other causes of neurogenic bladder.As part of Plenary Session 1 (Bladder Cancer in the Young Patient: Unique Aspects) at the 2019 European Association of Urology (EAU) annual meeting, Dr. Emmanuel Jean Chartier-Kastler from Sorbonne University, Pierre and Marie Curie University in Paris France, discussed the unique challenges of taking care of pregnant women with urinary diversions. He began his talk by noting that there are several important considerations that a urologist must consider when caring for a pregnant patient with a urinary diversion. These include the type of urinary diversion that the patient underwent, the concept of bacterial colonization and increased risk of urinary tract infections, cosmetic considerations, and options for delivery of the child.He acknowledged that patients with urinary diversions are at risks of pregnancy-related complications including urinary tract infection, low birth weight, premature delivery (up to 25%) and autonomic dysreflexia in those patients with higher spinal cord injuries. He believes that these patients need to be counseled about the potential risks and challenges of pregnancy ideally prior to conception. A multidisciplinary approach to care including a urologist and obstetrician is crucial to identify risk factors and manage complications.Up to 64% of patients with urinary diversion experienced urinary tract infections during pregnancy, which can increase the risk of pre-term labor. He believes that it is important to ensure that patients are adequately emptying their urinary reservoir and that checking post-void residual volumes frequently throughout the pregnancy is crucial. Those patients who self-catheterize their reservoir need to understand that its capacity will decrease over time as the fetus develops, and more frequent catheterization regimens will be needed to avoid incontinence and to ensure complete emptying. Some patients may develop difficulty catharizing because of changes in the angulation of their catheterizable channel. He strongly believes that patients should not have a chronic indwelling catheter placed during pregnancy because it can increase the risk of urinary tract infections and subsequent complications.Chartier-Kastler also stressed that it is important to acknowledge that many of these individuals are on medical treatment for their neurogenic bladder or underlying medical conditions. Anticholinergic use appears to be safe during pregnancy, but botulinum toxin should not be used during pregnancy, and should ideally be held for at least 6 months prior to conception because fetal safety is unknown.He moved on to discuss the importance that the care team understands the difference between bacterial colonization of the reservoir versus a true urinary tract infection. Some centers are using cycled antibiotic regimens to decrease the risk of urinary tract infection. He believes judicious use of antibiotics and early treatment at the development of symptoms is important.He next discussed the challenges of delivery in this patient cohort. The caesarian rate is reasonably high, from 7-89%. Historically this was done to help prevent theoretical complications of disruption of the reservoir or sphincteric function, and to potentially decrease the risk of pelvic organ prolapse. More recent data, however, has suggested that vaginal delivery can be safely performed in women with prior urologic surgery and urinary diversion. He noted the importance that the urologist be closely involved and notified when a patient does go into labor, as they should be present in the operating room at the time of delivery if a caesarian were to be necessary. This is because the urologist better understands the altered anatomy after urinary diversion and can work in conjunction with the obstetrician to help avoid injuries to the reservoir and its blood supply.He concluded that fertility can persist after urologic oncological surgery and that it does place patients at higher risk for pregnancy-related complications. He believes that deliveries should be done at tertiary centers and that ideally vaginal delivery should be prioritized if safe from an obstetric standpoint.Presenterd by: Emmanuel Jean Chartier-Kastler, MD Sorbonne University, Pierre and Marie Curie University in Paris FranceWritten by: Brian Kadow, MD, Society of Urologic Oncology Fellow, Fox Chase Cancer Center, at the 34th European Association of Urology (EAU 2019) #EAU19 conference in Barcelona, Spain, March 15-19, 2019. Barcelona, Spain (UroToday.com) The use of hospital readmission rates as a hospital quality metric has been debated as hospitals post-surgical readmission rates may be more due to patient factors (case mix) compared to hospital factors. It is not known whether a similar trend is present in advanced endoscopic procedures. Dr. Karl Tully and colleagues, therefore, sought to evaluate the contribution of individual hospitals on the patient-level probability of readmission after a typical high-risk endoscopic procedure, percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL).Dr. Tully and colleagues demonstrated, that for a weighted sample of 6,974 patients who received PCNL at 485 hospitals, the 30-day readmission rate was 8.5% (95% CI 7.4 9.7). In the authors adjusted model, hospital characteristics such as surgical volume were not associated with an increased likelihood of readmission. Individual hospitals contributed marginally to their patients probability of readmission. Patient-level characteristics explained far more of the variability in readmissions than hospital characteristics (R squared 0.53963 vs 0.003).In this proof of concept study, Dr. Tully and colleagues used of hospital readmission rates as a hospital quality metric has been debated as hospitals post-surgical readmission rates may be more due to patient factors (case mix) compared to hospital factors. It is not known whether a similar trend is present in advanced endoscopic procedures. We, therefore, sought to evaluate the contribution of individual hospitals on the patient-level probability of readmission after a typical high-risk endoscopic procedure, percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL).Based on their results, the authors concluded that hospital characteristics contribute marginally to hospital readmissions rates compared to level factor. Also, the authors underline that the hospital where surgery is performed barely influences the patients odd of readmissions. These findings underscore the potential limitations of 30-day post-discharge readmissions to evaluate hospital quality of care.Presented by: Karl Tully, MD, Resident, Department of Urology, Marien Hospital Herne, GermanyWritten by: Olesya Snurnitsyna, MD, Fellow, Department of Urology, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia and Zhamshid Okhunov, MD, Twitter: @OkhunovZham, Department of Urology, the University of California-Irvin at the 34th European Association of Urology (EAU 2019) #EAU19 conference in Barcelona, Spain, March 15-19, 2019. Shenandoah, IA (51601) Today A mix of clouds and sun during the morning will give way to cloudy skies this afternoon. High 43F. Winds NE at 15 to 25 mph. Higher wind gusts possible.. Tonight Cloudy with snow showers mainly during the evening. Areas of freezing rain possible. Low 26F. Winds NW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of snow 50%. Snow accumulations less than one inch. The Holy See Press Office gives details of Pope Francis meeting with the President of the Republic of South Sudan in the Vatican. By Vatican News On Saturday, March 16, 2019, Pope Francis received in audience His Excellency Mr. Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan. The President subsequently met with the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who was accompanied by Archbishop Paul Gallagher, Vatican Secretary for Relations with States. According to the communique published by the Vatican Press Office, the cordial discussions highlighted the good bilateral relations between the Holy See and the Republic of South Sudan, as well as the contribution of the Catholic Church in the educational and health field, and in the process of reconciliation and reconstruction of the Nation. Other issues touched on included questions concerning the implementation of an agreement recently reached by various political elements, with a view to the definitive resolution of the conflict, the return of refugees and displaced persons, and the integral development of the country. In this context, Pope Francis expressed the wish that conditions for a possible visit to South Sudan might be met, as a sign of closeness to the people and encouragement to the peace process. It is not the first time the Pope has said he wants to visit the Republic of South Sudan. In 2017, he hoped to make an ecumenical visit to the country along with the Anglican Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby. The trip had to be called off because of security reasons. South Sudan gained independence in 2011, becoming the worlds newest country, but has faced a series of challenges since then, including an ongoing civil war between government and opposition forces. Therapy restaurant, located in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas, will offer a complimentary shot to Nightclub & Bar Show badge holders from Monday, March 25 through Wednesday, March 27 (Pictured: Therapy Bar Photo credit: Brian Mannasmith). For those with an official convention badge, Therapy will offer a complimentary shot of New Amsterdam vodka. Convention attendees will have the option between the following New Amsterdam flavors: peach, orange, pineapple, lemon and apple. Plus, patrons who visit the restaurant during happy hour will receive 20 percent off food items, as well as discounted well drinks, draft beer and select wines, in the bar area, from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Ng Keng Hooi, AIAs group chief executive and president AIA's growth rates are shown on a constant exchange rate basis, while the operating profit generation of the company was strong, along with cash flow and resilient capital position, and strong increases in recommended final dividend. Telling VIR about the excellent business results of AIA last year, Ng Keng Hooi, AIAs group chief executive and president confirmed the excellent performance with double-digit growth across the main financial metrics. The value of new business (VONB) increased by 22 per cent to reach a new record of $3.955 billion. "We also achieved strong growth of 13 per cent in both operating after-tax profit and underlying free surplus generation. These very strong results were achieved against a backdrop of economic uncertainty and financial market volatility," said Ng Keng Hooi. "Our business in China delivered an excellent performance with VONB growth of 30 per cent. I am also delighted that we recently received approval to set up sales and service centres in Tianjin and Shijiazhuang, Hebei. Hong Kong delivered another very strong performance with 24 per cent VONB growth and VONB in Singapore grew by 18 per cent. Thailand returned to growth with VONB up 12 per cent, as our agency transformation delivered tangible results," he added. AIAs agency channel had another excellent year with 26 per cent VONB growth and the group now has more than 10,000 Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) members. In partnerships, AIA's bank channel delivered 18 per cent VONB growth and activated four new strategic partnerships, including with Bangkok Bank in Thailand and SK Telecom in Korea. Our brand promise, Healthier, Longer, Better Lives, epitomises our commitment to customers as AIA shifts towards being a partner for life with wellness as a key focus. Membership of our wellness programmes exceeded 1.2 million, transforming engagement and delivering meaningful health improvements for our customers," said Ng Keng Hooi. According to the AIAs group chief executive and president, these strong results are underpinned by AIA's diversified, robust, and high-quality business model, together with a relentless focus on capturing the significant opportunities presented by the long-term structural drivers of growth across Asian insurance markets. The Board has recommended an increase of 14 per cent in the 2018 final dividend and a special dividend of 9.50 Hong Kong cents (1 US cent) per share due to the change in financial year-end date. The dividends reflect the strength of AIAs financial results and our confidence in the outlook for the group, said Hooi. The scale, quality, and breadth of AIAs exceptional businesses across the Asia-Pacific region, combined with our unrivalled distribution capabilities, trusted brand, financial strength, and innovation capabilities, enable us to meet the evolving needs of our customers for protection and long-term savings as we help them to live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives, he added. We enter 2019, our centennial year, with confidence about our long-term outlook. AIA has always been committed to providing financial protection and driving economic and social development across the region. Our centenary gives us the opportunity to reaffirm our commitments and our focus on delivering long-term sustainable value for our shareholders, he confirmed. City cracks down on petrol stations that commit fire-safety violations Trade, storage and use of flammable substances such as petrol,gas, oil and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) pose a high risk of explosion. Local agencies inspections and handling of violations in oil and gas trading have been lax, creating a high risk of fire at many locations. Numerous incidents, for example, have occurred at petrol stations. A fire destroyed six gas pumps at Petrol Station 102 on Phan Van Hon Street in District 12 on October 1 last year, causing a loss of billions of Vietnamese ong. Earlier, five gas pumps, one tank truck and tens of motorbikes were destroyed by fire at Petrol Station 72 on Quang Trung Street in Go Vap District. Sai Gon Giai Phong (Liberated Sai Gon) newspaper has reported that violations have occurred at many petrol stations in districts 3, 5, 8, 10, 11 Binh Thanh and Binh Chanh. Employees at the petrol stations are still selling gas to customers while tank trucks nearby are pumping gas into fuel tanks at the station. This violation occurs frequently at many petrol stations, but employees are not warned about the danger of fire. At some stations, wash and repair services for vehicles are located next to gas pumps while customers wait to wash vehicles, employees and others smoke cigarettes near the gas pumps. Representatives of petrol stations said they regularly reminded employees of the danger but that they continued to smoke. Many gas shops violate regulations that require thick walls, exit doors and safe distances for fire-generating equipment, as well as a minimum area for shops. Some gas shops have installed electric outlets and regularly cook with gas stoves near a storage area with many gas cylinders. Col Huynh Van Quyen, deputy head of Binh Chanh Districts Police, said that it was highly dangerous for customers to pump gas while tank trucks are putting gas into storage cellars at petrol stations. During the pumping process, gas vapours fill the air. This can lead to a fire sparked by customers, employees and others who smoke, do not turn off heat sources, or use cell phones, ignoring fire risks. If a fire occurred, it would be difficult to contain the fire immediately because they sell gas to customers," he said. The citys rescue police said they had improved their regular inspections and monitoring, and were strictly handling any violators. With these violations, it is difficult for agencies to control because they cannot always physically be at the petrol stations or gas shops 24 hours a day, Quyen said. The citys Peoples Committee has asked oil and gas businesses to work with local fire prevention police and refrain from pumping oil and gas into fuel tanks from tank trucks. But few of them have complied with the request. A representative of the citys Fire Prevention, Fighting and Rescue Police Department said the department had been working with district police to inspect and punish violators of fire-fighting prevention and control regulations at petrol stations in the city. We will co-ordinate with concerned agencies to suspend the operation of the petrol stations if they are intentionally violatingregulations, he said. The department also said police officers in all districts should regularly organise classes on fire prevention and fighting to raise fire-safety awareness among gas station and gas shop owners, traders and staff. Traders also must install projector screens and information about fire-safety regulations at their stations and shops. Tourists are falling in love with Vietnams islands and coasts at first sight and pictures seem to be the only medium to convey the moments. Gian Thanh Son, journalist and photographer, is famous for his aerial photography (taking photos of the ground from the air), is preparing to launch a picture book named "Dao va Bien Que Huong (the countrys islands and coasts), a collage of his artwork during the past 20 years. For the past 20 years, Son has been flying across the countrys many islands and beaches, admiring the beauty of the coasts, the might of the islands from the north to the south and recorded that beauty through thousands of photographs. He has selected more than 400 of his best photos to fulfil his dream of introducing Vietnams beauty as he sees it to viewers. Talking with VIR, Son said, "Through these photos, I would like to introduce the potential of tourism, culture, and economy of Vietnam to tourists, especially international visitors." Let's admire Son's artwork to learn more about Vietnam. An old port, Vung Tau has been the premier beach resort in southern Vietnam for most of the 20th century and was the first area of Vietnam to become a popular vacation and health destination for tourists Con Dao Island makes up an archipelago which contains a National Park, but the main island was also once the site of a French-run prison for Vietnamese involved in the independence movement Phu Yen is a place where the essence of Vietnam has not been as strongly impacted by western influence and tourism The coast of Quang Binh Quang Tri's coast from above A motorway running along the coast in Quang Ngai The meeting of the city and Quang Nam beach Semi-automatic AR-15s on sale at a Utah gun range. (Photo: AFP/George Frey) At least 49 people were killed and dozens wounded when the gunman, identified as a 28-year-old Australian right-wing extremist, opened fire on worshippers in two mosques. A video live-streamed by the assailant on Facebook showed him rapidly firing what appeared to be hundreds of bullets at his defenceless victims using various weapons. The New Zealand police have not yet identified the exact makes and models of the various guns used by the assailant. At least one was a shotgun but others appeared to be similar to the semi-automatic rifles used in a number of US mass shootings and equipped with large-capacity magazines. Such weapons were used in the mass shooting at a movie theatre in Colorado which left 12 people dead in 2012 and the massacre at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut, that same year which left 26 people dead including 20 children. The militant who attacked the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, in 2016, killing 49 club-goers, used a semi-automatic weapon. The deadliest mass shooting in recent US history was carried out in Las Vegas in 2017 by a man armed with 10 AR-15 semi-automatic rifles, some with 100-round magazines, and other guns. Fifty-eight people died in that attack. The troubled teenager behind the mass shooting at a high school in Parkland, Florida, in 2017 which left 17 people dead and led to a grass roots gun control movement was also armed with an AR-15. 'BAN ON BUMP STOCKS' According to the Violence Policy Center, semi-automatic weapons differ from military versions in that the trigger of a semi-automatic must be pulled individually for each round fired. Machine guns, which are banned in the United States, will fire continuously for as long as the trigger is depressed or until the magazine is exhausted. "The unique design features of semi-automatic assault weapons allow the shooter to efficiently kill as many people as possible in the shortest amount of time available," the Violence Policy Center said. "Increased lethality is the exact purpose for which these weapons were designed." US Senator Dianne Feinstein speaks at an event to appeal for the renewal of a ban on assault weapons. (Photo: AFP/Alex Wong) The United States last year banned "bump stocks" - devices that allow semi-automatic weapons to fire like machine guns. Stephen Paddock, the Las Vegas shooter, had equipped a number of his semi-automatic rifles with bump stocks. Bump stocks allowed him to fire at a rate of nine bullets a second, before he turned his weapons on himself, according to US authorities. The United States banned semi-automatic assault weapons in 1994 but the ban expired in 2004 and was not renewed. Democratic lawmakers have sought several times since then to renew the ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines but have not been successful. Ogilvy Vietnam Week 2019 will last until March 22 in Ho Chi Minh City and Danang On March 15, Ogilvy, a communications agency, kicked off the Ogilvy Vietnam Week 2019 with the spotlight on the launch of Ogilvy Content Studio, which is a communications initiative to supply content immediately based on scientific data. Along with discussion sessions between seniors of Ogilvy and leaders of Asia-Pacific groups, the event is an opportunity to introduce Ogilvys products which are displayed via case study, creative exhibitions, and other online discussions. Ogilvy Vietnam Week 2019 lasts from March 15 to 22 in Ho Chi Minh City and Danang with the participation of approximately 100 leaders of enterprises from the Asia-Pacific. A number of themes for discussion sessions are digital change, the keys to thoroughly exploit the potential of the creative sector, and case studies about Operating System. At Oglivy Vietnam Week, visitors can experience Ogilvy's products At Ogilvy, which is one of the largest creative networks in the world, we not only focus on creating PR products for customers but also work to create new steps for the development of PR products for enterprises in order to meet customer demand in the digital era, said Nguyen Trong Duc, CEO of Ogilvy Vietnam. Ogilvy Content Studio: pioneer initiative for creative future Ogilvy Content Studios official launching marked an important milestone for Ogilvy Vietnam in its efforts to integrate in the digital era. In order to celebrate the launching of the studio, the company organised for the first time the exhibition themed Expansion of the Content Universe with 100 creative works. At Ogilvy, each product is a crystallisation of sophistication, diversity, and the spirit of constantly seeking new values. We also understand that the most important thing to create quality content is to put ourselves in the position of consumers to listen and understand their thoughts and aspirations, said Nguyen Dieu Cam, general director at T&A Ogilvy. The launch of Ogilvy Content Studio shows our vision of becoming an Agency of the Future where creativity, data, and digital transformation beat at the same time," added Cam. Oglivy Vietnam has been creating "content universes" for Vietnam's premier brands After a year of establishment, Ogilvy Content Studio has created different content universes for large-scale brands like Alpha King, Unilever, Nestle, Sabeco, Taiwan Excellence, Grab, and Zalo. Ogilvy Content Studio is considered the largest and the latest initiative of Ogilvy Vietnam so far to meet the increasing demand of customers for a large volume of content and well-timed news. It is a crystallisation of content solutions created by a leading initiative team with great experience and a finger on the pulse of recent trends, said Tien Vo, creative director of T&A Ogilvy. So that the "content universe" of brands can be activated at the right time and create a big bang," Ogilvy Content Studio follows four main approaches, namely engagement content, partnership content, real-time content, and editorial content. US President Donald Trump has been repeatedly accused of making comments that were at best insensitive and at worst racist when it comes to race relations and far-right movements. (Photo: AFP/Nicholas Kamm) Trump was asked if the killing of at least 49 people in two mosques in Christchurch by a man claiming that white people are being overwhelmed in their historic homelands demonstrates a rising problem around the world. "I don't really. I think it's a small group of people that have very, very serious problems, I guess," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. "If you look what happened in New Zealand, perhaps that's the case. I don't know enough about it yet." Although Trump referred to the bloodbath as "horrific" and "terrible," his comments downplaying the potentially wider threat were likely to face criticism. Trump has been repeatedly accused before of making comments that were at best insensitive and at worst racist when it comes to race relations and far-right movements. The alleged gunman - identified as an Australian white nationalist - apparently livestreamed the assault on social media and published a manifesto filled with racist conspiracy theories. He also referred to Trump as "a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose." Asked if he'd seen the manifesto, Trump said: "I did not." Earlier, he tweeted that he'd spoken with New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern to express "solidarity" and to say, "We love you New Zealand!" 'VERY FINE PEOPLE' In 2017, even many of Trump's closest supporters were reportedly appalled by his refusal to condemn a march by torch-bearing neo-Nazis in Charlottesville, Virginia. The march ended in violent clashes with leftist protesters and Trump appeared to spread the blame equally, even though the right-wing demonstrators had been chanting a Nazi-era slogan "blood and soil." "You also had some very fine people on both sides," he said. In December an American neo-Nazi was sentenced to life in prison for driving his car into a group of counter-protesters during the white supremacist rally, killing a woman. Trump has also been accused of whipping up xenophobia with his long-running campaign to build more walls along the US-Mexican border, which he says is under "invasion" by illegal immigrants. On Friday, he signed the first veto of his presidency to dismiss congressional pushback against his declaration of emergency powers to get billions of dollars in wall funding. FARTHER AND FARTHER RIGHT Trump has repeatedly denied racist tendencies and often touts his work in improving economic conditions among the country's racial minorities. However, the right of his party, which includes his most reliable political base, increasingly flirts openly with white nationalism and wild conspiracy theories. Rush Limbaugh, the popular right-wing radio host, said on Friday that the New Zealand bloodbath may even have been what conspiracy theorists call a "false flag" designed to discredit Trump. "There's an ongoing theory that the shooter himself may in fact be a leftist who writes the manifesto and then goes out and performs the deed purposely to smear his political enemies, knowing he's going to get shot in the process," Limbaugh said. Brian Levin, director at the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism, said, however, that the problem could not be more real. "White nationalism and far right extremism is the most prominent extremist threat facing the United States today, and indeed it is a worldwide phenomenon," he said. The flower arrangement of Le Dieu Ngoc Linh at the exhibition in Osaka, Japan The biennial exhibition is held to showcase Ikebana works of prominent artists as well as domestic and international students. Vietnam is the sole foreign country participating in this years event. The arrangement of Le Dieu Ngoc Linh uses the traditional conical hat as the main ornament to reflect the beauty of Vietnamese women, while the work of Do Vy Anh is a combination of crane flower with a black vase and red steel wires. The five-day exhibition features hundreds of flower works, including those arranged by members of the Ikenobo family, especially the 45th headmaster Ikenobo Senei. It is expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors. Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arrangement, with a history of more than 600 years. Meanwhile, Ikenobo is the oldest and largest school of ikebana. Tensions escalated between nuclear-armed Pakistan and India after a February 14 bombing in Indian-controlled Kashmir killed at least 40 Indian paramilitary officers. Ambassador Richard Olson, Senior Adviser at the United States Institute for Peace, and Michael Kugelman, Deputy Director of the Asia Program at the Wilson Center, talk with host Carol Castiel about the fallout from this attack. They also discuss whether just-concluded talks in Doha between the United States and the Taliban can pave the way for a peaceful settlement of the Afghan conflict. Armed men killed nine villagers, including children, and torched homes in northern Nigeria on Saturday, official sources said, the latest attack in a surge of violence in the Kaduna region. "Kaduna state government has confirmed the killing of nine citizens by criminal elements who attacked Nandu in Sanga [district] in early hours of this morning," state Gov. Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai said on Twitter. "The security agencies have so far recovered nine corpses, including children. The attackers also burnt several houses in the village," he added. Kaduna sits between Nigeria's majority Muslim north and the predominantly Christian south, Southern Kaduna is one of many areas blighted by years-long violence between largely Muslim Fulani herders and indigenous Christian farmers over land and water rights. The clashes have been aggravated by rapid population growth in Africa's most populous country. Ethnic, religious turn The violence has recently taken on an ethnic and religious dimension, with politicians accused of inflaming the violence for political ends. President Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday condemned the latest violence. He urged all involved "to come to terms with the fact that mutual violence has no winners." "No responsible leader would go to bed happy to see his citizens savagely killing one another on account of ethnic and religious bigotry," he added. The Inter-American Development Bank (IADB) has officially recognized the Venezuelan representative designated by opposition leader Juan Guaido, the first multilateral institution to take such an action. The bank is Latin Americas largest regional lender, and the move is a major setback for President Nicolas Maduro. The action could eventually free up development lending to Venezuela if Maduro were to step down. Guaido has been recognized as Venezuelas legitimate leader by most Western countries, including the United States as well as many Latin American nations. He named Harvard University economist Ricardo Hausmann, an exiled former Venezuelan government minister, as his representative to the IADB, forcing a vote by the lenders 48-member board of governors. The bank said in a press release that its decision to recognize Hausmann was effective immediately. It said that a sufficient number of members had voted to meet the requirements of quorum and favorable votes for a decision. In another development Friday, American Airlines said it has temporarily suspended its operations into Caracas and Maracaibo, citing safely concerns in Venezuela. The safety and security of our team members and customers is always No. 1 and American will not operate to countries we dont consider safe, the airlines said in a statement. The decision comes after the U.S. State Department this week issued a travel advisory urging Americans to avoid Venezuela due to crime, civil unrest, poor health infrastructure, and arbitrary arrest and detention of US citizens. At least one person is reported dead after protests over local elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Members of the ruling Union for Democracy and Social Progress party began demonstrating in the streets Friday to voice displeasure at the results of the vote for regional assembly. The election resulted in a majority going to the opposition Common Front for Congo, the party of long-time president Joseph Kabila. One police officer was reported killed in the province of Kasai-Oriental. In Kinshasa, protesters are reported to have attacked the headquarters of Kabila's party. Kabila left office in January after an election win by the head of the Union for Democracy and Social Progress, Felix Tshisekedi. Friday's results erode the power held by the Tshisekedi government. The new president had promised to break away from the traditions of Kabila's 18-year rule. War is personal. And in Syria, after eight years of a grinding conflict, there are as many stories of loss, dispossession and desperate hope as there are people. What started as peaceful protests in 2011 asking for government change turned into one of the cruelest modern wars and left a trail of broken lives among the countrys pre-war population of 23 million. Now half are displaced, nearly half a million dead and many live with permanent scars or have joined militias. Every citizen has paid the price The years of war have left their mark on Dia Hassakehs 45-year old face. The Arab fighter in the Kurdish-led U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces has seen his family suffer on the conflicts many fronts. In the early days, two of his brothers were wounded fighting in the government military against the armed opposition. In November, another brother was killed by the Islamic State group. Now Dia is battling the militants at IS last holdout, a speck of territory along the Euphrates River near the Iraqi border called Baghouz. As Syrians, every citizen has paid the price, he said, speaking just outside Baghouz. He took the name of his hometown Hassakeh as a nom de guerre when he joined the SDF. Assad wins, but not all While the Islamic State groups territorial defeat will close one bloody chapter, Syria is still wracked by conflict on the eighth anniversary of its long-running civil war. Syrian President Bashar Assads government appears to have won the war against the insurgency trying to topple him. But much of the country is out of Assads hands. The northeast and east, wrested from IS, is largely held by the U.S.-backed Kurdish-led forces. But their fate as well is uncertain. Though President Donald Trump announced he would withdraw American troops, the U.S. is apparently keeping a small force, hoping to encourage the Europeans to strengthen their presence to protect its Kurdish allies from their nemesis Turkey, and counter Irans expansion in the region. Militants are still a potent force. The Islamic State group has planted the seeds to wage an insurgency. The northwestern province of Idlib, an opposition stronghold throughout the war, is home to other jihadists as radical as IS. Nearly 3 million Syrians live in the province, most displaced from other parts of Syria that fell under government control. A Turkish-Russian truce that averted a government assault on Idlib and took pressure off Assad is fraying, threatening new bloodshed. Assad remains hostage to his massive need for cash to rebuild and his reliance on his allies, Russia and Iran, which are pursuing their own interests. Moscow wants to keep access to the Mediterranean and a position to challenge the West; Tehran is keeping an array of militias in Syria to preserve its domain of influence stretching from Iraq to Lebanon. And public opposition is not extinguished. Like Groundhog Day, protesters in southern Syria took to the streets of Daraa, the city where the 2011 anti-government rallies first erupted and where the government only finally managed to re-establish control last year. Men and children this month held day and night protests chanting against Assad after authorities planned to erect a statute for his late father. The people want a new president, protesters chanted, a 2019 version of the people want to bring down the regime. Within this maze of conflicts, players and interests, Syrians try to find their way. Time needed to heal Dia never liked the anti-government protests. When they erupted in 2011, he left Hassakeh, in the northeast of Syria, to live in northern Iraq. There, while two of his brothers fought in the military against the rebels, he ran a home appliances business and sat out the war, until the war caught up with him unexpectedly. The Islamic State group, feeding off Syrias chaos, swept over much of Syria and northern Iraq. Dia returned to Hassakeh and found the militants closing in on his home province. He volunteered to fight against them to protect our family, land and country, he said. He blames outsiders, militants and superpowers, for breaking up his country. Having fought in the SDF and served in his own governments army before the revolts, he still believes the country will be put back together and heal. Any country that goes through this needs time, he said. The irony is he is fighting in a force backed by a foreign power the U.S. and led by Kurds determined to stay as separate as possible. Kurdish point of view Sefqan, a 29-year-old Kurd who commands an SDF unit of more than 200 special forces fighters, has no issues with his country breaking up and the central government losing authority. The Baath regime is no good for us Kurds, he said, referring to Assads ruling party. Our rights were lost in Syria. ... Our war is to get out from under of this injustice. Sefqan fought against IS and before that other jihadist groups who threatened his hometown, Amuda, in Hassakeh province. Kurds, who made of 10 percent of Syrias pre-war population, have long complained of discrimination and oppression by Damascus. Sefqan belongs to an even more disenfranchised community: Hes one of thousands of Kurds who are stateless, because in the past they either failed to convince authorities they were Syrian residents or didnt take part in censuses in the 1960s and 1970s. Now Sefqan and many of his people enjoy newfound confidence and clout, with the Kurdish-led administration controlling northeastern Syria and bolstered by natural resources and good relations with the U.S-led coalition. Sefqan and other Kurds dream of emulating the extensive autonomy enjoyed by Iraqs northern Kurdistan. He said the Kurdish-led administration has made strides in giving real representation to the community and praised its efforts to introduce democracy. If they continue this, it will be good, he said, though with a note of wariness. The SDF has emerged as the most organized non-state actor from the war. It and its political arm have successfully established facts on the ground that will likely be hard to reverse, such as teaching the Kurdish language in schools and setting up parallel governing institutions and their own economic infrastructure. Ali Ahmed al-Hassan, a 29-year-old Arab, works trucking crude oil from one of the richest oil fields controlled by the SDF. It is a profitable, but highly risky business, because remnants of IS have threatened those helping the Kurdish economy. IS leaves its mark Al-Hassan lived for four years under IS rule after the militants took over his home province of Deir el-Zour. Two of his brothers died, one as a bystander when airstrikes hit an IS position and another when he was caught in a cross fire. No one has been spared. My two brothers. My two nephews. And about six cousins. All were killed in the war, he said. Deir el-Zour has been freed of IS, but its still insecure. He has to be home before dark because of IS sleeper cells lurking in the countryside. We need more than a year to regain security, he said. IS has left its mark. The locals have become foreigners. Many of the (foreign militants) married locals. Our children have become Chinese, he said, his term for the many Central Asian fighters who joined IS in Syria. Dia believes the militants presence is a pretext for foreign powers to meddle in Syria. Everyone is responsible for the creation of Daesh, he said using the Arabic acronym for IS. It was created and put on a pedestal to ruin this country, like the Arab spring. All my family has taken part in this war. Five of us. Two were injured, one lost a leg, and another carries a cane, and one was killed. There is only me and another left, he said. So long as we have life and our hearts are beating, we will fight to liberate this country. U.N. experts say Eritreas human rights record has not changed for the better since the government signed a peace agreement with Ethiopia last year, formally ending a two decades-long border conflict. The U.N. Human Rights Council held an interactive dialogue on the current situation in Eritrea this week. After a 20-year military stalemate with Ethiopia, hopes were high that the peace accord would change Eritreas human rights landscape for the better. U.N. Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights Kate Gilmore said that has not happened. She said Eritrea has missed a historic opportunity because the government has not implemented urgently needed judicial, constitutional and economic reforms. She said the continued use of indefinite national service remains a major human rights concern. Conscripts continue to confront open-ended duration of service, far beyond the 18 months stipulated in law and often under abusive conditions, which may include the use of torture, sexual violence and forced labor, she said. Gilmore urged Eritrea to bring its national service in line with the countrys international human rights obligations. The peace agreement signed with Ethiopia should provide the security that the government of Eritrea has argued it needs to discontinue this national service and help shift its focus from security to development. In the absence of promising signs of tangible human rights progress, that flow of asylum-seekers is not expected to drop, Gilmore said. Human rights groups say unlimited national service forces thousands of young men to flee Eritrea every month to seek asylum in Europe. They say many lose their lives making the perilous journey across the Sahara Desert or while crossing the Mediterranean Sea to Europe. The head of the Eritrean delegation to the Council, Tesfamicael Gerahtu, said his country has had to adopt certain measures to counter the negative effect of the last 20 years on peace, security and development. He insists there is no human rights crisis in his country. He accused the Human Rights Council of exerting undue pressure on Eritrea by monitoring his countrys human rights situation and adopting detrimental resolutions. He called the actions counterproductive. The honorable and productive way forward is to terminate the confrontational approach on Eritrea that has been perpetrated in the last seven years and that has not created any dividend in the promotion of human rights. And, there is no crisis that warrants a Human Rights Council agenda or special mandate on Eritrea, Gerahtu said. Daniel Eyasu , head of Cooperation and International Relations of the National Youth Union and Eritrean Students, agrees there is no human rights crisis in Eritrea. He offered a positive spin on the countrys controversial national service, calling it critical for nation building. Unfortunately, he said, the reports of the councils special procedures characterizing national service as modern slavery is unwarranted, unjustified and unacceptable. The Founder of One Day Seyoum, Vanessa Tsehaye, said the government has not changed its stripes. She said it is as repressive today as it was before the peace accord with Ethiopia was signed. Tsehayes organization works for the release of her uncle, a journalist who has been imprisoned without a trial in Eritrea since 2001 and for all people unjustly imprisoned. She said they continue to languish in prison. The standoff at the border cannot justify the fact that all capable Eritreans are enlisted into the national service indefinitely. It cannot justify the fact that the countrys constitution still has not been implemented and that the parliament still has not convened since 2002. It does not justify the fact that the only university in the country has been shut down, that the free press has still not been opened and that tens of thousands of people have been imprisoned without a trial simply for expressing their opinions, practicing their religion or attempting to leave their country, Tsehaye said. But delegates at the council welcomed the peace process and expressed hope it will result in better protection for the Eritrean people. But they noted the prevailing abusive conditions are not promising. They urged the government to reform its military service, release all political prisoners, stop the practice of arbitrary arrests, and end torture and inhumane detention conditions. Large crowds turned out in the Algerian capital Algiers to protest against the government of ailing President Abdel Aziz Bouteflika for the fourth consecutive Friday. Thousands of protesters gathered in front of the citys historic main post office to press popular demands for a new political regime and the ouster of old-guard elements of the ruling Front de Liberation Nationale party. Supporters of the protest were calling it a million man march, although it was clear from numerous videos that crowds had gathered in some areas while others remained empty. Activists complained on Twitter that the government had cut public transportation links to the capital in order to lower the number of participants in the Friday protest. VOA could not independently confirm the claim. The Reuters news agency reported that Algerian security forces were blocking roads to parliament and to government headquarters. New government Incoming Prime Minister Noureddin Badawi told a press conference Thursday that he would name the members of his new government in the next several days. He said his new government should be formed by the beginning of the coming week and the next step will be to organize the national dialogue conference the government will oversee. Deputy Prime Minister Ramattan Lamamra told journalists that efforts are now underway to organize the national conference, under the auspices of veteran U.N. diplomat Lakhdar al Brahimi. Lamamra said there have been preliminary discussions to decide the agenda of the conference and it remains to be determined which parties and sectors of society will be represented. Lakhdar al Brahimi told Algerian TV there must be a broad consensus of Algerias different components before change can be enacted and that confidence must be built among the opposing actors. He said the process would be slow, but that the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. Will of the people vs wait and see Noureddin Bahbouah, who heads the Union of Democratic and Social Forces Party, told Al Hurra TV he thinks the government is ignoring the will of the people He said the people gave their final verdict, but the regime is ignoring the will of the people by proposing only a partial and temporary plan, even if it may have some good points. Said Qudari, a member of parliament and strategist for the ruling FLN party, told Al Hurra that critics should wait and see what changes will be enacted before criticizing the new government. Qudari said the new government will be made up of technocrats, and the new prime minister has proven his abilities in government for many years. He says change must take place slowly in order to find a solution to the current crisis. Islamist politician Abdallah Jaballah told a press conference several days ago that the [Algerian] people must not surrender to the regime or believe its worthless promises. [The people] must not back down from its legitimate protests, he insisted, until its goals are met. Algerian Army chief of staff Gen. Ahmed Qaid Salah has warned that unknown elements are trying to pull down the government, in a veiled allusion to the Muslim Brotherhood and other Islamist groups. Algeria fought a bitter and bloody civil war in the 1990s after Islamists won a 1992 election that was overturned. A German freelance journalist jailed in Venezuela since November on espionage charges was released Friday within weeks of two other reporters being expelled from the tumultuous South American nation, his parents and a human rights attorney confirmed. A court in the capital of Caracas ordered journalist Billy Six to be let go under the conditions that he report back every 15 days and not speak to media, attorney Carlos Correa of Public Space told The Associated Press. Six, 31, wont be deported from Venezuela, but Correa also said that the journalist isnt prevented from leaving if he chooses. We are overjoyed! his parents Ute and Edward Six posted on a Facebook, also railing against Germanys foreign ministry for not doing enough to help their son who spent 119 days in solitary confinement. Viva Venezuela! they wrote. Free Billy Six! Resident of a Berlin suburb, Six has traveled the globe as an independent journalist for 12 years, publishing his reports in right-wing outlets. His arrest has generated little interest in mainstream German media, which relatives blame on his conservative affiliation. In Venezuela, he documented the economic collapse and mass migration from the socialist country, landing in jail on espionage charges that his family rejected as false. Earlier arrest in Syria This wasnt Sixs first arrest amid turmoil. In 2013, he was jailed by the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad for three months after illegally entering that country to report on its bloody civil war. He was eventually handed over unharmed to Russian diplomats in Damascus who had helped secure his release. Six turned his attention to Venezuela more than a year ago. His father previously told The AP that his son entered the country legally but was unable to secure journalist credentials required by Venezuela to work as a reporter. While reporting on Venezuela, Six posted two crudely edited German-language videos online showing him walking the streets, interviewing people and at times narrating his conclusions, critical of Maduros socialist government. While the government of socialist President Nicolas Maduro has little tolerance for critical coverage by local press, foreign journalists who cross officials are usually spared the same harsh treatment. In the past, foreign reporters, like Six, who werent accredited would stay in custody for just a few days before being ejected from the country. Other journalists deported The release of Six follows the recent deportation of other two journalists. Venezuelan security forces seized U.S. freelance journalist Cody Weddle earlier this month at his apartment in Caracas where he had worked for more than five years. Most recently, Weddle sent dispatches to a Miami TV station. Univisions Jorge Ramos and his team were also deported in late February when Maduro cut short an interview during which he was shown video on an iPad shot a day earlier of young Venezuelans eating food scraps out of the back of a garbage truck. When Pakistani immigrant Kazi Mannan came to the U.S. in 1996 as an impoverished young adult, he could only dream about success. He worked long hours in a series of tough jobs, saved money and learned everything he could about working and living in America. His hard work paid off. After more than 20 years, hes now a successful entrepreneur and owner of a popular Pakistani-Indian restaurant just a few blocks from the White House. But whats most remarkable about his story is what hes doing in his restaurant every day. Mannan offers free meals to the homeless and anyone else in need. Paying it forward He says its his way of heeding the principles of his Muslim faith. I know God is happy with me, what I do, because I do it with my pure heart, with my pure intention, to uplift others without seeking any reward, any recognition, he says. I dont need any awards, I don't need any money. I just want to please Him. Mannan helps the needy he says, because growing up poor in Pakistan, he knows what its like to be hungry. I have nine siblings and [we didnt have] much to eat when you are poor and you [dont] have things that other people have, when you get it, you want to appreciate, you want to share with others, he said. His desire to share deepened as he worked as a limousine driver in the nations capital. He saw homeless people on the street, day and night, in all kinds of weather looking for food in trash cans. The experience had an impact. I don't want to see another human being going through the poverty that I went through. I don't want to see another human being going through the hunger that I went through. I want them to have that feeling that they were being accepted, so they can come and sit here and eat with respect, he says. Just like family His message is simple. Come to Sakina Halal Grill, which is named after his late mother, ask for food, use the restroom, and sit for as long as you want. We will love you and respect you the same way we respect a paying guest. We will treat you like family, he said. Marchellor Lesueur, who is homeless, has been coming to the restaurant every day for the past eight months. I think that he's a saint. Hes a beautiful man, he says about Mannan. My stomach was growling, I was looking for a blessing, then he popped up, gave me a card and invited me to a restaurant for lunch. And I was so overwhelmed and happy I couldnt wait to get here, and ever since then I've been coming. Hegehiah Griakley is also a regular. He was finishing up a generous portion of rice and chicken, which he described as two meals in one. This is more than lunch," he said. "They give you enough to feed you for the rest of the day I think. The food is great, the people are nice. I wouldnt mind working here! Griakley says he once asked Mannan what he could give him in return for the free food. Because most people expect you to give back. But he said 'no, no, no, no, no!' He just wanted me to have a good meal, he recalls. I couldnt believe that. It was so nice. I loved it. Compassionate immigrant Mannan estimates that hes provided more than 80,000 free meals since the restaurant opened in 2013. And when hes not feeding the needy in his restaurant, Mannan delivers meals to local shelters and churches, and organizes food and clothing drives at nearby parks. Some people tell me homeless people are using drugs and youre feeding them; that's bad." To which he responds, For you, its bad, for me, it's joy. I see a person whos fallen to the ground. Whatever problem they went through to become homeless, its not my job to judge my job is to give them respect and love. His paying customers are still his main business. Many of them contribute towards the free meals... and support his cause. First time customer Geralyn Nathe-Evans was visiting from Minnesota when she read about Mannans mission in an article. I have a deep interest in social justice, Catholic social teaching and so to be part of something bigger than myself, my son and I chose to come to lunch here today to support and be a small part of a great thing, she said. Serving your fellow man Mannan uses food as a way to help his fellow man, in practice of his faith. He urges others to do the same with their talents. If youre a medical doctor, can you love him through your practice? If you are a lawyer, can you love him through your practice? Be kind and be compassionate to your client? he asks. In doing so, he believes we will all prosper and flourish as a society. Meantime, he says he will continue to nourish both body and soul of all who walk through the door of his restaurant. Just uplifting others is a joy for me. It doesnt matter [what] color, religion you belong to. We are all human. I am focusing on humanity. I'm bringing humanity together and this is my mission. The attack on Friday prayers at a New Zealand mosque that left 49 people dead and 20 more seriously wounded reverberated around the world, striking hard at one of the largest Muslim communities in the United States. VOA's congressional correspondent Katherine Gypson reports from Minneapolis, Minnesota, where Muslims, and people of all faiths, are mourning yet another attack on a house of worship. The death toll in a mass shooting at two New Zealand mosques on Friday has risen to 50 after emergency workers found another body at one of the crime scenes. Police Commissioner Mike Bush announced Sunday (local time in New Zealand) that all the bodies from both mosques had been removed from their locations. "In doing so, we were able to locate a further victim," he said. On Saturday, the main suspect in the shootings appeared in court in Christchurch. Brenton Tarrant, 28, an Australian citizen and self-proclaimed white nationalist, was led by two armed guards into the court where a judge read one charge of murder to him. He wore prison robes and handcuffs and did not speak. Reporters in the courtroom said the suspect smiled during his appearance. A photo showed him holding his left hand in an upside-down "OK" symbol, a gesture used by white supremacist groups. After the suspect left the court, the judge said that while "there is one charge of murder brought at the moment, it is reasonable to assume that there will be others." Tarrant has not yet entered a plea. His next court appearance is set for April 5. Two suspected accomplices have also been arrested. Police were trying to determine to what extent, if any, they were involved in the attack. None of the suspects were on a terrorism watch list in New Zealand or Australia. Meanwhile, medical officials said 39 people wounded in the shootings were in hospitals; 11 of them were in critical condition. In a news conference Saturday morning, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the attacker's onslaught was cut short when he was apprehended. "It was his intention to continue his attack," the prime minister said. She called the mass shooting "an extraordinary act of violence" and vowed that "our gun laws will change." She said the shooter had five guns, two of them semiautomatic. All the weapons were legally obtained. The attack came during Friday prayers when the Al Noor Mosque and the nearby Linwood Mosque were filled with hundreds of worshippers. The shooter livestreamed the assault on Facebook. He also published a 74-page white nationalist manifesto in which he denounced Muslims and called immigrants "invaders." The manifesto also said he chose to make his attack in New Zealand to show that nowhere in the world was safe. Residents of Christchurch took flowers and other mementos to a makeshift memorial, and an online fund for the victims gathered $684,000 in a single day. The victims of Friday's shooting included immigrants from Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Indonesia and Malaysia. Mass shootings and violent crime are rare in New Zealand, a country of nearly 5 million people. Until Friday, the country's worst mass shooting was in 1990, when a lone gunman killed 13 people in the small town of Aramoana. Sham al-Akhras, 10, has only known war since the Syrian civil war started in March 2011, when she was an infant. If the brutal conflict is physically and emotionally distressing for regular Syrians, it is all the more so for al-Akhras, who has to live with her disability under the harsh conditions of a refugee camp in northern Syria's Idlib. Al-Akhras is unable to speak and can barely walk. Her father, Maher, told VOA that lack of access to medical facilities in Idlib's war zone has prevented him from even diagnosing her condition, let alone getting proper treatment. But despite the great barriers, al-Akhras has turned into a strong little girl, determined to fully live her childhood moments of carefree play and uncontrollable giggles. "She is an independent and a brave little soul," Maher said. "Sham does not allow us to help her in her daily life, like helping her stand up, put on her clothes or eat. She likes to do things by herself." Al-Akhras and her parents were displaced from Aleppo when the war escalated between the Syrian regime and rebels in 2012. They are settled in a refugee camp in Harem town near the Turkish border, where al-Akhras is enrolled in the first grade at the camp school. Despite a lack of special accommodations for her at the school building, she insists on going there to learn the Arabic alphabet and work on coloring, shapes and other educational activities. "The displacement was harsh on Sham. We left Aleppo because of the violence that took over our city. We lost our house in an airstrike by the regime. We are facing financial hardships; and adding to all this is the absence of professional medical aid and treatment because of the war that has made it harder for us to find good care for our daughter," al-Akhras' father said. With no real end in sight to the war in Syria, al-Akhras is only one among thousands of disabled Syrians who have to carry the heavy burden of the conflict, according to rights organizations and experts following the plight of disabled Syrians. Stigma and exclusion Fayez Orabi, a Syrian doctor operating from Turkey, told VOA that many disabled Syrians also are suffering from stigma and exclusion within their communities, in addition to the effects of the war. He said neglect and lack of psychological help most likely would leave permanent psychological scars, especially on those who became impaired by the war. "People who were disabled by the war suddenly find themselves unable to interact with their communities and can't earn a living for their families. This adds a sense of guilt and shame in them because they have lost their abilities to be active like they used to be," Orabi said. Orabi said that disabled Syrians, facing an overwhelmingly unfavorable attitude, have almost no chance of getting into the work force to become productive members in their communities and breadwinners for their families. "When a family member is disabled, especially when this person is the main provider to the family, the entire family is affected. Providing people with disabilities with an opportunity to be productive will support the entire family," Orabi said. Millions displaced According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the British-based war monitor, the Syrian civil war has cost the country about 560,000 lives with millions of people displaced. The United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) said Monday that about 1.5 million people in Syria are now living with permanent impairments because of the conflict, including 86,000 people who have lost limbs. It estimated 3.3 million Syrian children are exposed to risks from explosive hazards such as land mines. The agency said children with disabilities were particularly exposed to the devastation of war, and it asked aid organizations to help provide access to aids like wheelchairs, canes and prosthetics. "In conflict, children with disabilities are among the most vulnerable," said Geert Cappelaere, UNICEF's Middle East and North Africa regional director. "They often require specialized treatment and services. As children, their needs differ from those of adults. Without access to services, schools and assistive products like wheelchairs, many children with disabilities face a very real risk of exclusion, neglect and stigmatization as the unrelenting conflict continues." Local activists in many areas have introduced initiatives to support people with disabilities by providing them with medical treatment and reintegrating them into the society. They say international aid is helpful but not enough and a change of attitude is needed in the society to address the problem. Hassan Hamzeh, an activist working for the rights of persons with disabilities in Idlib, said effective assistance should ensure that disabled Syrians are empowered to serve as active citizens without feeling shame because of their conditions. Hamzeh worked with other local activists to start a school for children with disabilities in Idlib, though he notes their initiative has remained local and limited because of the lack of money and support. "Helping people with disabilities to be self-sufficient and independent in life will pave the way for them to be active members in the Syrian society that needs every contribution to rebuild the country," Hamzeh said. VOA Extremism Watch Desk's Sirwan Kajjo and VOA Turkish, Urdu and Kurdish services contributed to this report. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is criticizing a U.S. Senate vote to end American military support for the Saudi-led war in Yemen. The years-long conflict has left thousands of civilians dead and millions of others on the brink of starvation. VOA's Diplomatic Correspondent Cindy Saine has more from the State Department on the clash between Congress and the Trump administration over the president's foreign policy. A dissident organization committed to overthrowing North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was behind a raid on the North Korean embassy in Spain last month, The Washington Post reported Friday, quoting people familiar with the planning and execution of the mission. The newspaper, which did not further identify its sources, identified the group as Cheollima Civil Defense, which also goes by the name Free Joseon. It said the group came to prominence in 2017 after evacuating a nephew of Kim from Macau when potential threats to his life surfaced. The Posts sources said the group did not act in coordination with any governments and U.S. intelligence agencies would have been especially reluctant to be involved given the sensitive timing of the mission ahead of a second summit between Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump in Hanoi from Feb. 27-28. According to Spanish media accounts, broadly confirmed by a Spanish Foreign Ministry source, a group of unidentified men entered North Koreas embassy in Madrid on Feb. 22, bound and gagged staff, and drove off four hours later with computers. There has been no claim of responsibility. The dissident group identified by The Washington Post could not be reached for comment and its purported website has made no mention of any involvement in the raid. On Feb. 25 the website posted a statement saying the group had received a request for help from comrades in a certain Western country and that it was a highly dangerous situation but (we) responded. The group said an important announcement would be coming that week, but no details of any operation have been released. The Madrid embassy is where North Koreas chief working-level negotiator in talks with the United States, Kim Hyok Chol, was ambassador until 2017. Intelligence experts said computers and phones reportedly seized in the raid would be eagerly sought by foreign intelligence agencies given the information they might contain on Kim Hyok Chol and others. Asked about The Washington Post report, the U.S. State Department referred queries to the Spanish authorities. The CIA declined to comment. A pair of rural New Zealand police officers dramatically arrested the suspected Christchurch gunman 36 minutes after authorities were alerted, according to the prime minister who hailed their bravery Saturday. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the alleged attacker, 28-year-old Australian Brenton Tarrant, would surely have killed even more people than the 49 worshippers he massacred in two mosques were it not for the policemen. The offender was mobile, there were two other firearms in the vehicle that the offender was in, and it absolutely was his intention to continue with his attack, Ardern told reporters in Christchurch. Put New Zealand first Grainy video apparently shot from a passing car shows the gunmans light-colored vehicle at the side of a busy road, rammed against the curb by a police car and with one of its front wheels suspended in the air. Two police officers, one of whom appears to be armed only with a handgun, can be seen pointing their weapons at the open passenger-side door. They were rural community cops I understand from Lincoln (a nearby town) who were present here. Anyone who has seen the footage ... they put New Zealand first, Ardern said. The individual charged was in custody 36 minutes from receiving the first call, she said. The officers can be seen dragging a black-clad figure away from the vehicle, as motorists slowly drove by on the other side of the city road. Brought massacre to an end Police Commissioner Mike Bush also praised the officers who brought the massacre to a halt. I would also like to commend, and some of you would have seen, the brave actions on social media of police staff who responded to this incident, he said. Im extremely proud of what theyve done today. Ardern said 39 people remained in hospital, 11 of them in intensive care. Russia on Saturday slammed the "hypocrisy" of new Western sanctions against its officials over their role in a naval confrontation with Ukraine last year, and vowed to respond to the "unfriendly" move. The United States, Canada and the European Union Friday slapped new sanctions on more than a dozen Russian officials and businesses in response to Moscow's "continued aggression in Ukraine." "The pretext for including our countrymen in the illegitimate sanctions list of the EU astounds with hypocrisy and cynicism," the Russian foreign ministry said. In a previous statement late on Friday, it said Russia "will not leave the unfriendly act of the EU without a response" and accused Brussels of siding with Kyiv on the eve of its presidential election due on March 31. "It cannot be ignored that the decision came not long before the presidential election in Ukraine," it said. It also accused Washington and Ottawa of "Russophobia" and said the sanctions will "not lead to the results the U.S. and Canada want". A U.S. Treasury statement Friday said six Russian officials, six defense firms and two energy and construction firms had been targeted, either over the seizure of Ukrainian vessels in the Kerch Straight last November, or for their activities in Russian-annexed Crimea or separatist eastern Ukraine. The U.S. sanctions freeze all property and interests in property belonging to the designated individuals and entities, and prohibit U.S. persons from transacting with them. Four of the individuals are border guard or coast guard officials, singled out for their role in a November 25, 2018, naval confrontation, in which Russian ships fired on and seized three Ukrainian vessels in the narrow Kerch Strait the two countries share. The four were targeted jointly with the EU and Canada according to the State Department. Twenty-four Ukrainian crew members were detained in the naval incident. In the statement on Saturday, Russia said its border guards were "bravely fulfilling their duty to defend the state borders of our country" and that the confrontation was the result of a "provocation" by the Ukrainian side. It said Moscow was acting "within the norms of international law" in arresting the Ukrainians. Russia has said the sailors will go on trial for violating its maritime borders. They face up to six years in prison for illegally crossing Russian borders, lawyers have said. Protesters demonstrating against the autocratic rule of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic burst into state-run TV headquarters in Belgrade on Saturday to criticize a broadcaster whose reporting they consider highly biased. Riot police arrived at the scene in the Serbian capital and were trying to evict dozens of people, including some opposition leaders, who had entered the downtown building. Some protest leaders said they wouldn't leave the building until they were given time on the main evening news broadcast. This was the first major incident after months of peaceful protests against populist leader Vucic. The demonstrators are demanding his resignation, free elections and media, and more democracy. The protests began after thugs beat up an opposition politician in November. A former extreme nationalist, Vucic has said he wants to lead Serbia into the European Union. Some 10,000 others also demonstrated Saturday against long-serving Montenegrin President Milo Djukanovic in the Montenegrin capital of Podgorica. Djukanovic and his party have ruled Montenegro virtually unchallenged for three decades. He led the country to independence from much larger Serbia in 2006 and defied Russia to join NATO in 2017. Both Vucic and Djukanovic have rejected calls to resign. Veronica Phillips, now 92 years old, was just a teenager when the Nazis sent her to a concentration camp. She and her family were among millions of Jews targeted in the Nazi-led Holocaust during World War II. The war ended when she was 19; she moved to South Africa in 1956 to be with her brother. For decades, she refused to speak of her experience. But the effects of abuse, hard labor and a brutal death march before the war's end have haunted her for most of her life. "I had eight miscarriages because they gave us bromide and it killed my reproductive organs," she told VOA as she prepared to tell her story to a crowd in Johannesburg this week. "I couldn't have any children." Numerous stories like hers fill the hallways of the Johannesburg Holocaust and Genocide Center, which opens to the public this month. While South Africa may seem very far away from atrocities like this, the nation boasts Africa's largest Jewish community, with some 70,000 Jewish residents, according to census figures. But it's South Africa's own painful history of colonialism, apartheid and violence, which is documented at Johannesburg's Apartheid Museum, that makes this new center so important, says its director, Tali Nates. These seemingly faraway, foreign events echo South Africa's own history of alienation. Hatred and acts of inhumanity could make it easier for South Africans to make sense of their own difficult stories. "We find that talking about other case studies, other crimes against humanity or genocide or other atrocities will allow us to speak about our own history," Nates said. Never again? The center also focuses on Rwanda's 1994 genocide. This year marks the 25th anniversary of those 100 horrific days that saw the slaughter of 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus. Sylvestre Sendacyeye was 14 when he hid in a Kigali church and watched the murder of his parents and three siblings. He says he still suffers from regular nightmares and struggles to tell his whole story to his oldest son, who is now 15. But, he says, he's forcing himself to share his experiences with visitors to the center. In recent years, South Africa has been hit by periodic bursts of anti-foreigner violence, mainly targeting African residents. Sendacyeye, who has lived in South Africa since 2000, says he feels compelled to tell his story in an attempt to stop the cycle of violence. "I find that the only way you can fight this ideology of racism, this ideology of violence, is they can see what human beings came to do, how come we came to be animals. Not even animals animals behave better," he said. "I think that's the only way people can avoid it happening, not only in Rwanda." 'Keeping the memory alive' Nates says the center will feature temporary exhibitions on other genocidal acts, such as the ethnic cleansing in Bosnia in the 1990s, the war in Sudan's Darfur region and more. These stories are complex and difficult. But Nates says it's often the tiny, personal items, like a much-loved baby doll, that best convey the toll these events took on ordinary people. "This is the most treasured item for me in this exhibition," she said, pointing at the small plastic doll, which is in remarkably good condition for its age. "Childhood dreams, hopes shattered by others, but keeping the memory alive, creating a life for herself. She was a geneticist, she was a lecturer at this university here next door. Yet she kept that doll, and trusted me, and this center, to keep this doll for many generations to come." That doll belonged to Phillips, who carried it and her tragic story close to her heart for seven decades. Overwhelmed by tourists Venice will soon start to charge an entrance fee. Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro says the money raised will help pay for the upkeep of the historic lagoon city. Venice routinely has more tourists than permanently declared residents. Rising housing costs and the use of properties for tourist accommodation have driven the population down by two thirds since the middle of the 20th century. As a result, Venice for years has been struggling with numerous woes, including high tides that regularly flood the citys iconic Saint Marks Square, and growing numbers of tourists. To deal with the endless flows of visitors no solutions at this moment are final but, starting later this year, all tourists will be paying a fee that will go towards the upkeep, cleaning and services that are needed for the city to survive. City administrators say the maintenance costs of Venice are extremely high compared to other cities. Visitors who stay in hotels for the night are already paying a tax which is added to their room rate. But later this year day-trippers or tourists who visit Venice for just for a few hours will also be subject to a fee. Mayor Brugnaro this week outlined the plan to the foreign press gathered in Rome. He said they want to defend the city for current and future residents and visitors because Venice is a marvel of the world and only in this way will they be able to safeguard it. Brugnaro said an experimental entrance fee of about $3 will be charged to those who visit Venice this year but said no date had yet been set as to when this charge would start. The fee, the mayor said, would be collected by transport companies bringing the visitors to the city on planes, trains, buses and cruise boats. Cameras, he said, would also be installed in certain parts of Venice for those arriving for the day in private cars. He made clear there would be stiff fines for those who do not comply with the new charge. Some, like students and workers, would be exempt from paying the fee, as would those who were born and reside in Venice and children under the age of 6. From January 1st, 2020, the entrance fee will be set to about $7 but will be variable and range from $3 to $11, depending how busy the city is. Some in Venice say they do not believe the entrance fee plan will work. Lawyer Roberta Pierabon said it will be impossible to implement. She said visitors arrive from all sides. Its impossible to block Venice because Venice is an island and you reach it on water. She does not believe the flow of arrivals can be controlled and added that she disapproved of the plan. Other Venetians favor the idea, saying that it will help control the tourism so that it is not so aggressive. Michele Tessari, who, often works with tourists on lagoon transport, said Venetians would like a more elite kind of tourism, not so much eat-and-run tourism and the entrance fee will help with this. He said locals want to avoid seeing tourists eating their sandwiches sitting on the bridges of Venice like tramps. Venetians love their city and know it will never stop attracting visitors. Venice is so special, they say, that it belongs to the whole of humanity, and everyone should have the opportunity to visit this incredible city at least once in their lifetime. The United States and China clashed Friday over Beijings $1 trillion belt and road global infrastructure program after the Security Council unanimously approved a bare bones resolution extending the mandate of the U.N. political mission in Afghanistan for six months. Last years resolution extending the missions mandate for a year welcomed and urged further efforts to strengthen regional economic cooperation involving Afghanistan, including through the massive belt and road initiative to link China to Europe, Africa and other parts of Asia. The 2016 and 2017 council resolutions had similar language. Council diplomats said China wanted the belt and road language included in this years resolution but the United States objected. U.S. deputy ambassador Jonathan Cohen told the council after the vote that China held the resolution hostage and insisted on making it about Chinese national political priorities rather than the people of Afghanistan. He said the Trump administration opposed Chinas demand that the resolution highlight its belt and road initiative, despite its tenuous ties to Afghanistan and known problems with corruption, debt distress, environmental damage, and lack of transparency. Chinas deputy ambassador Wu Haitao countered that Cohens remarks were at variance with the facts and are fraught with prejudice. He also said one council member almost certainly referring to the U.S. poisoned the atmosphere which led to the councils failure to adopt a substantive resolution. Wu noted that since the belt and road initiative was launched six years ago, 123 countries and 29 international organizations have signed agreements of cooperation with China on joint development programs. The `belt and road initiative is conducive to Afghanistans reconstruction and economic development, Wu said. Under this framework, China and Afghanistan will continue to strengthen cooperation in various fields, promote economic and social development in the country and the integration of Afghanistan into regional development. He stressed that the program has nothing to do with geopolitics. Germanys U.N. Ambassador Christoph Heusgen, who drafted the resolution with Indonesias U.N. Ambassador Dian Djani, expressed regret that issues that have nothing to do with the work of the U.N. peacekeeping mission in Afghanistan made it impossible to adopt a substantive resolution. We very much regret that such topics as the upcoming elections (in Afghanistan), the participation of women in the Afghan peace process, the situation of children in armed conflict, the nexus between climate change and security, are no longer reflected in this resolution, Heusgen said. The resolution does extend UNAMAs mission until Sept. 17, 2019 and stresses the central importance of a comprehensive and inclusive Afghan-led and Afghan-owned political process towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict and a comprehensive political settlement. And it welcomes progress in this regard. But Heusgen said the text isnt satisfactory to any of the 15 council members. He expressed hope that in the next six months the U.N.s most powerful body would be able to overcome its differences and adopt a resolution that also reflects on the peace process and the upcoming elections. Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido began a tour of his country Saturday in Valencia, part of his effort to oust embattled President Nicolas Maduro. Guaido tweeted photos of the day's activities, attended a service at Valencia Cathedral and visited a local market, greeting crowds of supporters in both places. In Spanish, he tweeted, "Those who live here and who come to buy what little they can are hardworking people who deserve to live better." He said that while the Saturday market is usually full of "hustle and joy," on this particular day it was instead full of the cries for hope and freedom. Guaido said people were feeling the consequences of Venezuela's economic crisis, caused by what he called "an inhuman system that destroyed the production and purchasing power of our people." Guaido has been recognized as Venezuela's legitimate leader by most Western countries, including the United States and many Latin American nations. On Friday, the Inter-American Development Bank, Latin America's largest regional lender, officially recognized the Venezuelan representative designated by Guaido. It was the first multilateral institution to take such action. The bank's move was a major setback for Maduro. It could eventually free up development lending to Venezuela if Maduro were to step down. Guaido named Harvard University economist Ricardo Hausmann, an exiled former Venezuelan government minister, as his representative to the IDB, forcing a vote by the lender's 48-member board of governors. In another development Friday, American Airlines said it had temporarily suspended its operations into Caracas and Maracaibo, citing safety concerns in Venezuela. The decision came after the U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory urging Americans to avoid Venezuela "due to crime, civil unrest, poor health infrastructure, and arbitrary arrest and detention of U.S. citizens." More than 200,000 Venezuelans fleeing economic hardship, political oppression and human rights abuses have arrived in Brazil since 2017. Most of them are living in the northern part of the country, putting a strain on the local residents hosting them. The U.N. refugee agency and partners have begun relocating more than 5,000 Venezuelans from Brazils northern state of Roraima to 17 other states in the country. U.N. Refugee spokesman Babar Baloch told VOA this voluntary relocation scheme is designed to ease the pressure on host communities. What I understand from talking to my colleagues in Brazil is that many of them are sleeping rough on the streets, not everyone is able to find a job, not able to sustain themselves once they arrive in Brazil. So, this support is very important for them and this targets different vulnerable groups, as well from families, individuals, he said. Baloch said the whole idea behind the project is to move the Venezuelan refugees and migrants to different parts of Brazil where there are better opportunities to find homes and jobs. A first group of 225 Venezuelans boarded a Brazilian Air Force aircraft on Wednesday. They took off from Boa Vista, the capital of the State of Roraima, for 13 different cities in Brazil. The UNHCR says more flights are scheduled over the coming weeks. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. In Los Angeles, non-native animals, often endangered in their homelands, are finding a new home. Its an urban ecosystem that is largely artificial but in which they are learning to thrive. Reporter/Camera: Elizabeth Lee With the hope of being granted asylum, members of the LGBTQI community have been arriving at the United States border. They came along with various caravans of undocumented immigrants from Central America. The main suspect in a mass shooting in at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand that left 49 people dead appeared in court Saturday. Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year old Australian citizen and self-proclaimed white nationalist, was led by two armed guards into the court in Christchurch where a judge read one charge of murder to him. After the suspect left the court, the judge said that while "there is one charge of murder brought at the moment, it is reasonable to assume that there will be others." Two other suspected accomplices have also been arrested. Police are trying to determine to what extent, if any, they were involved in the attack. In a news conference Saturday morning, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Tarrant's onslaught was cut short when he was apprehended. "It was his intention to continue his attack," the prime minister said. She called the mass shooting "an extraordinary act of violence," and vowed "our gun laws will change." She said the shooter had five guns, two of them semi-automatic. All the weapons were legally obtained. She said neither the gunmen nor the suspected accomplices were on any terrorist watchlist in New Zealand or Australia. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison described the suspect as an "extremist right-wing violent terrorist." The attack came during Friday prayers when the mosques were filled with hundreds of worshippers. Officials say forty-one people died at the Al Noor Mosque, and seven were killed at the Linwood Mosque, a 10-minute drive away. Children are among the 48 people being treated for gunshot wounds. The shooter live-streamed the assault on Facebook. He also published a 74-page white nationalist manifesto in which he denounced Muslims and called immigrants "invaders." The manifesto also said he chose to make his attack in New Zealand to show that nowhere in the world was safe. Tarrant had worked as a personal trainer, according to the Australian Broadcasting Company. The news organization reported the manager of a gym where Tarrant was employed said he began traveling overseas in 2011. Manager Tracy Gray said Tarrant traveled to Europe and Asia, including North Korea. A photo published online by ABC shows Tarrant in Pakistan in 2018. The victims of Friday's shooting included immigrants from Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Mass shootings and violent crime are rare in New Zealand, a country of nearly 5 million people. Until Friday, the country's worst mass shooting was in 1990, when a lone gunman killed 13 people in the small town of Aramoana. At least 31 people have been killed and nearly 200 students are stranded in Zimbabwes Manicaland province hard hit by Cyclone Idai, which devastated some parts of Mozambique and Malawi. According to the Ministry of Information, hundreds of people have been left homeless as heavy rains are pounding Chimanimani, Mutare, Chipinge and other surrounding areas. In a tweet, the ministry said, Chimanimani has been hard hit. Areas affected include Chimanimani urban, Charleshood Farm, Machongwe, Vhimba and Kopa Growth Point. Haroni River in Ward 12 has burst its banks. Nyahonde River at Kopa business center has burst. Government is responding. The ministry further said more than 40 people are missing as children at St. Charles Luwanga, a Roman Catholic Church-run entity, are stranded following heavy rains with strong winds. The ministry said in a tweet, The Army is moving in from Chipinge to rescue 197 pupils from Charles Luwanga so they can take them to Mhandarume. This a very challenging operation as it's being undertaken as a ground effort because of unsafe weather conditions for air efforts. We will keep the nation updated. The wind remains a challenge for the Airforce to rescue those who are marooned but concerted efforts are being made to bring everyone to safety. In Mutare, according to the state-controlled Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation, 20 families have been left homeless while 125 houses in Ngangu have collapsed. About 30 people are missing in Risutu area. The ministry of information said, The ZNA is seized with the rescue effort but bridges that got swept away are slowing down their efforts Consignments of supplies being ferried to the affected areas in Chimanimani. These include buckets, tarpulines, boxes of laundry soap, Jerry cans, boxes of bath soap, nets and raincoats to be used by volunteers. In a statement, the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society said it has deployed its volunteers to support affected communities in Chipinge and Chimanimani. This cyclone follows a week of heavy rains and flooding across southeast Africa that has already killed at least 126 people in Malawi, Mozambique, and South Africa. More than a million people have been affected in all. In Mozambique, the floods have already affected 117,000 people with more than 17,000 displaced. In neighbouring Malawi, nearly one million people have been affected including more than 80,000 who are without shelter. Both countries are prone to extreme weather events. Earlier this week, IFRC released more than 340,000 Swiss francs from its Disaster Relief Emergency Fund to support local Red Cross early warning and early action, and to prepare to support 7,500 people in the aftermath of the storm. Funeral Announcements A daily list of current funeral annoucements as heard on KXRA 1490 AM/100.3 FM News Updates The daily news, sports, and events delivered daily from Voice of Alexandria. Sports Update This current sports headlines delivered daily from Voice of Alexandria. Upcoming Events This email is the events of the area delivered daily from Voice of Alexandria. Breaking News The big news. Sent only as it happens. Cory Booker and Rosario Dawson. Photo: Getty Images Cory and Rosie, sitting in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G First comes love, then comes New Jersey, then comes the rigors of a presidential campaign. The above is a song I just composed about New Jersey senator and Instagram poet Cory Booker, 49, and Sin City actress Rosario Dawson, 39, who are, as Dawson confirmed to TMZ, dating and in love. While she was walking through Washingtons Reagan National Airport, Dawson was asked if there was any truth to the rumors that she and Booker are in a relationship. Yeah. Were Yeah. Very much so, she replied. She also said it was so far so wonderful, hes a wonderful human being, and that shes grateful to be with someone that I respect and love and admire so much. She also pointed out a Booker campaign button on her bag. This is the first official confirmation that the two are dating, although they were spotted at the movies together in New York City in January, and that same week, Dawson was reportedly seen singing I love you to the senator at a performance of Dear Evan Hansen. Then, in February, Booker made two equally big announcements: the first, that he would be campaigning for president in the 2020 election, and the second, that he has a boo. In the second announcement, which he made during a radio interview with Charlamagne tha God, he did not say who the boo in question was (it was probably Dawson!) though he did say that he thought she would make a good first lady. Dawson did not comment on her partners choice to wear billowy-fit denim. He really dressed like delta lost his suitcase but hes not gonna let it ruin his trip pic.twitter.com/9SAg9QqMh7 yc (@yc) February 24, 2019 Congratulations to the happy couple. President Trump seemed to get off to a bumpy start with the company, criticizing Boeings Air Force One contract before entering office. But Boeing chief executive Dennis Muilenburg, while praising Trumps business headset, pledged to keep costs down and won favor with the president. Trump later made the unusual move of allowing Muilenburg to sit in on a phone call to an Air Force general managing the Pentagons largest weapons program. In December, Trump tapped a former Boeing executive, Patrick M. Shanahan, as acting defense secretary after the resignation of Jim Mattis. Questions about pilot training requirements and the planes new technology are at the center of a roiling debate following the crashes of two 737 Max 8s in the past five months. Aviation authorities have said there were similarities between the flight paths of the two planes, each of which crashed shortly after takeoff, and the FAA grounded Max 8s this week. Indications that the crashes may share a common cause have put a spotlight on the FAAs certification of the 737 Max 8 as airworthy, a process that includes determining whether to require additional pilot training. Since then, the weekly protests have snowballed from a handful of cities to hundreds, fueled by dramatic headlines about the impact of climate change during the students lifetime. Unless emissions of heat-trapping gases start dropping dramatically, scientists estimate that the protesters will be in their 40s and 50s, maybe even 30s, when the world will reach dangerous levels of warming that international agreements are trying to prevent. Trump has repeatedly denied allegations that he is racist or encourages racist views. But the president who trumpeted the conspiracy theory that former president Barack Obama was not born in the United States and launched his 2016 campaign with a speech in which he said that Mexican immigrants crossing the border were rapists has come under fire while in office for his reactions to racist incidents. Police said the 7-year-old girl told them that a man walked up to her around 6:30 p.m. Thursday in the 8800 block of Cherry Lane in Laurel as she was playing. The girl said the man showed her images on his phone and then attempted to lead her away, police said. Neighborhood children alerted the girls father, who chased the man. The officer was conscious and alert when he was removed from the car, police officials said. He and the woman were taken to local hospitals. Police said the extent of the womans injuries was not known. Maryland is among the worst in the nation when it comes to criminal records relief for sex-trafficking survivors, according to a new study. One of its authors is Jessica Emerson, director of the Human Trafficking Prevention Project at the University of Baltimore School of Law. Out of 40 states and the District with some sex-trafficking statutes for adult survivors, Maryland ranks dead last. The other 10 states were not ranked because they either had no criminal records relief laws for sex-trafficking survivors or only laws for minor victims. Marylands legislation won preliminary approval in the House of Delegates on Saturday, and it would erase an existing statute of limitations on bringing civil sexual abuse cases in the future. It would also apply retroactively, giving victims until October 2021 to file suit over abuse alleged to have happened at any time in the past. On Friday, the Maryland state police said they were contacted by members of the public who said they thought the man in the video was staying at a hotel in Ocean City. I first realized how little I knew about the deep-rooted problems facing Native Americans when photographer Michael Williamson and I stepped onto a reservation in South Dakota in 2009. We were traveling across the country to document how Americans were faring during the recession, and while we had encountered many desperate situations including a former city commissioner using a free health clinic, a young couple struggling to afford a $186 engagement ring on layaway and an unemployed engineer whose family ended up in a Virginia homeless shelter what we saw on that reservation left us shaken for days. Its not yet clear whether Amazon will pay the local business license tax because that tax is levied only on certain types of business, and Amazon has not yet announced which of its business units will be based in Arlington. If the company does pay the license tax, then some of its operations could be eligible for a discount of up to 72 percent under an existing program designed to attract technology companies. Taeb, a senior attorney at the Center for Victims of Torture, called Saslaw a relic of the good ol boys club mentality in Virginia politics that, she said, needs cleansing. She criticized Saslaw for initially defending Gov. Ralph Northam (D) after the revelation that Northams medical school yearbook page included a photo of a person in a Ku Klux Klan robe and another in blackface. Although the senator later joined other Democrats in calling for Northam to resign, he first said the governor should be judged by who he is today. Tarrant claimed he contacted an anti-immigration group called the reborn Knights Templar and got a blessing for the attack from Breivik, a right-wing extremist who killed 77 people in Oslo and a nearby island in 2011. Breiviks lawyer, Oeystein Storrvik, told Norways VG newspaper that his client, who is in prison, has very limited contacts with the surrounding world, so it seems very unlikely that he has had contact with the alleged New Zealand gunman. The 2017 toll was a record for opioid deaths in the city. Although overdose deaths may have dropped last year, Philadelphia is still grappling with how to tackle opioid use. City officials are trying to raise awareness of medication-assisted treatment for opioid use. The citys attempt to establish the nations first supervised injection site faces opposition from the Justice Department. Unhappy with the way your body looks? Peoples desire to reshape their bodies fueled an increase last year in the number of surgical and minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. The total 17,721,671 is an increase of more than a quarter-million procedures from the year before. That represents a 2 percent increase from 2017 to 2018, but a 163 percent increase since 2000 and an increase every year for the past five. Body-shaping procedures topped the list of most-popular cosmetic surgeries in 2018, with breast augmentation (313,735) up 4 percent and liposuction (258,558) up 5 percent. The plastic surgeon who is president of the society described liposuction as the gold standard in body contouring because of its versatility, efficiency and effectiveness. Tummy tucks were also among the top five, along with nose reshaping and eyelid surgeries. Other body-shaping procedures that increased in number included buttocks augmentation, buttocks lifts, thigh lifts and breast lifts. Overall, however, minimally invasive procedures such as Botox injections, soft tissues fillers, chemical peels and laser hair removal far outnumbered surgical ones, 15.9 million to 1.8 million. The status of this matter has not changed substantially since the January report, as defendant Gates continues to cooperate with respect to several ongoing investigations, and accordingly the parties do not believe it is appropriate to commence the sentencing process at this time, they wrote in a one-page update for Judge Amy Berman Jackson of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. The investigations were not described. Tetanus, while not itself infectious, is included in vaccination requirements because the shot immunizing against it also protects recipients from whooping cough and diphtheria. But the Oregon case is a reminder that the vaccination controversy is not only about whether parents have a right to endanger other peoples children. It is also about whether they have a right to endanger their own. The six-figure cost in Oregon is startling enough. The cost to the 6-year-old boy, who could barely walk when he was transferred out of the ICU, is tremendous. In some respects, the difference is understandable. The current outbreak as bad as it is has seen only a small fraction of the number of Ebola deaths recorded in 2014. That outbreak hit nations Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea that have sizable diasporan populations in the United States, which sounded alarms about relatives in danger back home; there are far fewer immigrants from Congo in the United States. The 2014 outbreak also caused a stir in the United States because an Ebola-infected patient brought the disease to Dallas, where two nurses involved in his treatment also fell ill: Ebola in America. Nothing similar has happened with the current outbreak, nor given how few people travel from the affected area is it likely. Last week, Pence conveyed to Republican senators that voting in favor of the Democratic resolution disapproving of Trumps national emergency declaration would be viewed as voting against both the president and border security and would probably have consequences. Some waverers, like Sens. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and Cory Gardner (R-Colo.), who are up for reelection in 2020, ultimately voted with the administration. But 12 other Republicans joined 47 Democrats to pass the resolution, forcing the presidents first veto. Asked whether she could make a bigger statement on the issue about which she is passionate by running and winning an election in Georgia or going national, she said, I think that is a legitimate frame, but its not the one I can use. These are jobs. Im applying for a job, and I should run for office because I want to do that job at that moment. The issue of voter suppression is an existential issue, and no matter what job I have, Im going to talk about that issue. I personally just want everyone to examine [her] record as a prosecutor, question her record as a prosecutor, point out what you dont like about her record as a prosecutor, but understand she was a prosecutor. Thats her job, he said. But, he said, voters also will have to consider programs Harris enacted to help former prisoners get the training and resources they needed. I think we have to look at it all in its totality, he said. A mid-February recess served as the first extended chance for the newcomers to spend time with their constituents, and few of those swing-district voters seemed interested in impeachment. Then over the past three weeks, the stakes rose, as Trumps former lawyer testified at a House hearing that elicited allegations of criminal behavior, and the House Judiciary Committee demanded documents from more than 80 people or entities associated with the president. Shuja Rehman, a 32-year-old electrical engineer, came from Hagley College to the central police station to report his cousin, Syed Areeb Ahmed, as a missing person. Syed hasnt been heard from since the assault began at the Deans Avenue mosque, where he had gone to pray. Shuja would have been there himself if he had not been delayed by a phone call. He heard the shots as he made his way along the street to the mosque. He has a friend who survived because he was covered by the bodies of others. He fears the worst for his cousin. Especially after the planned withdrawal of U.S. forces from Syria, there was much debate in France and throughout Europe about what to do with citizens detained in Syrian camps. Approximately 1,910 French nationals ultimately joined the Islamic State, according to statistics from the Soufan Center, a security research institute. Authorities in Australia said Tarrants relatives in the small city of Grafton had come forward to assist with their investigation into his path to radicalization. In the manifesto laying out his thinking and influences, Tarrant said he developed racist views and began planning his operation in 2017 after a trip to Europe. On Friday, Bulgarias chief prosecutor, Sotir Tsatsarov, said Tarrant flew to Sofia, the capital, in November 2018 and spent about a week in the Balkan country. Prosecutors there are investigating whether he visited as a tourist or if he had other objectives. By Jin Yu-young First impressions are a huge factor in consumer-brand relationships: a brand's overall image in terms of packaging and design usually plays the first step in determining whether or not a consumer will invest in a product. Equally important in making a good first impression is a brand's name, slogan and story. These are the linguistics aspects of a brand that can lead to its success or lack thereof. "Building the Brand" by Min Eun-jeong And it's the classic, mass-market beer brands that are driving the steepest decline. "VB and Carlton Draught are still the cornerstones of our portfolio and very iconic brands within the Victorian and Australian landscapes," says Filipovic, who describes the challenge facing the industry as multi-pronged. "But tastes are changing. Consumers are wanting more. Moderation is a big trend and we have got to adapt." Inside the big breweries of the world, the effects of these changes are filtering through. Industry analysts estimate that revenue in the Australian beer manufacturing sector has contracted by an annualised 1.1 per cent over the past five years and margins have shrunk. Loading There's still money there. The most recent accounts for global beer colussus Anheuser-Busch InBev's Australian operations, which includes CUB, show it pulled in $2.87 billion in revenue here in the period from October 2016 to the end of last year. From that, it was able to generate a profit after tax of $331 million as it sold roughly half of the beer drunk in Australia. But consumers' rising health consciousness, preferences for more complex craft beers and take-up of other drinks like cider and spirits, analysts say, are all to blame for the beer industry's "constrained" performance. The impact of our dwindling love affair with traditional beer is being felt already. In October last year, CUB's biggest competitor, Lion, was forced to retrench dozens of employees at its XXXX brewery in Queensland and its West End brewery South Australia, citing falling sales. "The decline in per-capita alcohol consumption and the move away from traditional beer is still a problem for the industry, and especially the larger companies like Lion and CUB," says Matthew Reeves, a senior industry analyst with IBISWorld."However these companies have certainly begun addressing these issues and have seen positive results." With Lion boasting 40 per cent market share, the two companies sell nine out of every 10 beers in the country. This is a big business moment. For companies like CUB and Lion, it's an adapt-or-die proposition. The solution, Filipovic insists, is to innovate and keep up with the societal changes he has seen sweep the industry over his career. The decline in per-capita alcohol consumption and the move away from traditional beer is still a problem for the industry. IBISWorld's Matthew Reeves Before becoming CEO, he had worked for CUB for more than 20 years, starting out as a tax graduate when the brewer was owned by Fosters Group. Later, when it was owned by SABMiller, he was made sales director and Australian business unit president. Now, under the ownership of the world's biggest brewery Anheuser-Busch InBev, whose best-known beer is Budweiser, he has been in the top job since January. "Back when I started ... most people had one or two beers in their repertoire, now we have three to seven, which is quite a big increase," says Filipovic. "I dont know whats going to happen in three years," he goes on, "but our role in society is to continue to adapt to what consumers want." IBISWorld notes the industry has found commercial success in new product lines targeting changing preferences for easier-drinking lagers and the alcohol "moderation" trend, including CUB's mid-strength Great Northern Super Crisp Lager. That beer shot to prominence as one of the most popular beers in Australia, accounting for up to 5.7 per cent of beer sales in 2016-17. Lion, meanwhile, has invested heavily in the hugely successful Furphy and Iron Jack beers sales of which grew 125 per cent and 86 per cent respectively in the 2018 financial year, according to Lion's parent company Kirin Holdings. Loading Last month, Lion launched its first gluten-free beer, Hahn Ultra Crisp, made from rice, which Lion brand manager Amy Darvill says will ensure Hahn continues evolving to "meeting the needs of the modern Australian consumer". Across CUB's parent AB InBev, about eight per cent of global beer volumes is now from low- and no-alcohol beers. One of its newest products, the no-alcohol Carlton Zero, hit supermarket shelves in Australia in August. The Australian Bureau of Statistics' latest figures show that alcohol consumption among people over the age of 15 has continued on downward trend that began in 2010 and, in 2016-17, reached a 55-year low. Per person alcohol consumption for the year was equivalent to 9.4 litres of pure alcohol per person, or 224 stubbies, down from more than 500 stubbies in 1974-75, with beer driving the bulk of the decline. According to Filipovic, the industry's move towards low- and no-alcohol beer is both driven by the companys promotion of responsible drinking, in addition to catering to what consumers want. How will the beer industry respond to far from frothy times? Illustration: Joe Benke. Credit: "We have done a lot to promote responsible drinking, as well as adapt to the consumer trend," he says pointing out that CUB is the single biggest contributor to an industry-funded responsible drinking group called DrinkWise. "Carlton Zero has been incredible." Public health advocates, the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education, have welcomed the increase in low- and no-alcohol beers, but have been critical of CUB for offering the products for sale on supermarket shelves, "where it is visible to children alongside grocery items such as water and Easter eggs". Trish Hepworth, the foundation's policy director, rejects the argument that brewers like CUB are doing enough to drive down alcohol consumption, accusing them of prioritising their responsibilities to shareholders, "irrespective of the harm" alcohol causes. "Alcohol companies, supported by alcohol industry bodies, sell alcohol for profit," says Hepworth. "Alcohol is a harmful commodity that confers no health benefit and leads to detrimental health outcomes, which is in direct conflict with the public interest and public health objectives." Hepworth says there is a general trend of improving health consciousness among Australians. "However, this does not translate across all population groups," she says. "Older Australians are drinking more than ever before." As drinking rates among younger generations keep dropping, industry analysts point to another interesting trend that is coming into view. Millennials appear to be increasingly favouring "quality over quantity", gravitating towards smaller, more natural and more locally produced food and drink products. Loading In the beer sphere, what this means is a move away from classic, mass-produced lagers like Carlton or VB, and a move towards craft and microbreweries instead. In the US, craft beer has experienced double-digit growth in market share over the past several years. In Australia there are more than 400 craft or boutique breweries operating nationally. "Millennials, being the 'information generation', like to know the story about what they are buying, especially when it comes to food and beverage purchases," says Reeves. "Millennials prefer to buy locally produced products, so in buying craft beer, they know they are buying a local brew and not an import." Craft brewers much smaller operations than major beer companies have focused on European and American styles that were previously under-represented in the Australian market, such as pilsners, pale ales, porters, amber ales, dark ales and wheat beer. Having people talk about beer again is actually the positive attribute. CUB's Peter Filipovic Mass-market brewers, too, have been steadily increasing their 'craft beer' offerings in response. CUB has long owned the Matilda Bay Brewing Company, best-known for its Yak ale range, while Lion snapped up Little Creatures in 2012. Both brewers have also embarked on a run of further acquisitions in the fast-growing craft beer sector. In 2017, CUB parent AB InBev bought out Sydney-based Four Pines and Adelaides Pirate Life. For his part, Filipovic says he is a classic lager drinker: VB in the fridge at home, Carlton on tap at the pub. "But what the craft category has been able to do for us is provide romance the wine category has led that for many years, he says. "Having people talk about beer again is actually the positive attribute." Adding to big beer's challenges are their largest customers, retail chains Woolworths, Coles and Aldi, which have substantially increased their own private-label beer offerings in recent years. Products like the Woolworths-owned John Boston and the Coles-owned Steamrail are putting a dent in demand, intensifying price competition and damaging manufacturers profit margins. The other major buyers of beer, of course, are the nations pubs, bars and nightclubs. The relationships between the two big beer giants and these venues have been the subject of scrutiny in recent years. Independent brewers say they are being "locked out" of beer taps in many venues because of CUB and Lion contracts requiring venues to dedicate more than 80 per cent of their taps exclusively to their beers. The national competition watchdog, following a three-year investigation, ultimately rejected the concerns. The head of the pubs industry group in Victoria, where CUB is most prominent, says the vast majority of its members had CUB beer taps, either through exclusive contracts with CUB, contracts allowing for a mix of CUB, Lion and independent beers, or no contracts at all. According to Australian Hotels Association state chief executive Paddy O'Sullivan, CUB under Filipovic has gone from being "not only a supplier to the pub industry, but a key partner", and was proving adept in responding to rapidly changing consumer demands. "The pub industry looks to CUB under the leadership of Flip to drive a lot of that customer insight and that market insight, says O'Sullivan. "They are leading the way to deal with those obvious challenges." He says Filipovic, whom he describes as skilled and respected, "never looks to create an unfair advantage" against competitors, but was more interested in growing the industry as a whole. "He's got a great knowledge of the business, a great commercial background, but what's really impressive is he spends a lot of time and effort on industry partnerships and relationships," O'Sullivan says. From runaway energy prices to high labour costs, much has been made in recent years of the pressures facing the Australian manufacturing industry, making tough times even tougher. Filipovic, however, is upbeat when he talks about the manufacturing environment, and the prospects of CUB's five breweries nationally, stressing the company has a focus on working collaboratively with its employees' unions to drive efficiency and sustainability. "We make and sell a lot of beer," he says, "and we work with our employees here to be efficient for the long term." His comments reflect a sharp turnaround in CUB's approach to unions in recent years after a long and hostile dispute in 2016 when the company sought to cut costs at its heavily unionised Abbotsford brewery to make it more competitive. CUB said conditions negotiated over the decades had resulted in an "unsustainable situation". CUB's then management stoked the ire of trade unions when it axed a long-standing maintenance contract and left 55 workers out of a job unless they agreed to re-sign on a new contract on lower pay. The laid-off fitters and electricians and their union officials protested outside the brewery gates for more than six months, prompting sometimes ugly confrontations, while the broader labour movement launched a national boycott campaign urging drinkers to stop drinking CUB beers. Well-known pubs including the Tote in Collingwood, the Lincoln Hotel in Carlton and the Kent Street bar in Fitzroy backed the union push and ditched their CUB taps. The protracted and highly public dispute ended within two months of CUB being taken over by AB InBev, with the workers winning their jobs back. The Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU), since the dispute, now represents the majority of CUB Abbotsford workers. A new workplace agreement struck earlier this year provided a 4 per cent wage rise per year for the next three years, a joint consultative committee with union representatives, a full-time health and safety representative and a special production run of a limited-edition VB can celebrating Labour Day. The union's assistant state secretary, Elias Spernovasilis, said the mood among the workforce was positive. "It's great to see a more consultative approach from CUB Abbotsford to industrial relations," he says. The other question hanging over the future of the business at its historic home is related to that other great Australian passion: property prices. CUB's sprawling Abbotsford brewery sits on valuable real estate, 10 hectares of prime inner-city river frontage about four kilometres east of the city centre. With an estimated value of more than $100 million, questions have arisen over the years about CUB's plans for the site, which would be a contender for future development. On Wednesday, at the same time as the Chief Judge of the Victorian County Court, Peter Kidd, was sentencing of George Pell, the High Court released its decision on whether Jones and the rest of the Ngaliwurru and Nungali should be compensated for the dislocation and hurt caused by the construction of the water tanks, and 52 other acts that impaired or extinguished their native title. The courts unanimous decision was that they should be compensated. It was the first occasion for the court to rule on an entitlement to compensation for the loss or diminishment of native title. (Since the enactment of the Native Title Act in 1994, other compensation determinations had occurred through agreement). Another elder, Jerry Jones, told of the lasting pain caused by the destruction of dreaming sites. The destruction triggered the shame of being unable to pass on law and lore. The grandkids have to go through ceremonies. I went through with my mob. Im really feeling hard for it because this site is very important to us, and all these sites got rid of it, Jones said. There was a wrenching sense of failing in ones responsibilities. Each group has to look after its bit of the dreaming. If something goes wrong of our part, others think we are no good, Jones said. Thats what happened when all of these things have been built in the town. Other Aboriginal people will complain about it and say that we are letting them down. In other instances, there was no attempt to consult. There was no attempt to consult when town water tanks were built directly on a "Winan" path. Access to the "Winan", a track significant for ritual and trade and which derived from the Dingo Dreaming, should have been mediated by elders. Well, everything happening here on Timber Creek on my site, I always feel real bad, the elder told a court about the construction of those tanks. You know I had a big operation for my heart just over the country worrying too much. As in the Pell matter, the Timber Creek litigation underlined the immeasurable value of the justice system in providing a place for people to tell their stories, and find redress. During multiple trials, the Timber Creek claimants proved they hold native title, and established that the loss of those rights entitled them to compensation. In 2016, John Mansfield of the Federal Court awarded the claimants about $2 million for the economic loss of their land, and $1.3 million for the non-economic or spiritual aspect of their loss. On appeal, a full Federal Court reduced the amount of economic loss by about $400,000, but left intact the $1.3 million for non-economic loss. The High Court reduced the compensation for economic loss by another $400,000. But significantly very significantly it left intact the $1.3 million for non-economic loss. The court endorsed Mansfields assessment of the spiritual and emotional hurt suffered by the Ngaliwurru and Nungali peoples. This was an assessment he had arrived at by listening to first-hand accounts of the claimants, as well as anthropologists. There was nothing inevitable about arriving at a figure of $1.3 million. The Commonwealth, as well as other states and territories, strongly resisted the size of the award. If $1.3 million could be awarded for pain and suffering at Timber Creek, which was a small claim area, much larger figures are now likely to be awarded elsewhere. The courts majority judgment - credited to Chief Justice Susan Kiefel, as well as Virginia Bell, Patrick Keane, Geoffrey Nettle, and Michelle Gordon built upon Mansfields assessment of the nature of this spiritual loss. The judgment introduced new imagery and metaphor to help think about the impact on Indigenous Australians when land has been interfered with. It would not be appropriate, the court said, to consider questions of compensation in relation to individual acts that caused damage. Rather, the majority said, each act put a hole in what could be likened to a single large painting a single and coherent pattern of belief in relation to a far wider area of land. It was as if a series of holes was punched in separate parts of the one painting. The damage done was not to be measured by reference to the hole, or any one hole, but by reference to the entire work. Susan Kiefel, Australia's first female High Court Chief Justice, "doesn't like lipstick feminists," one female barrister says. Credit:Robert Shakespeare The Timber Creek decision has been hailed as the most significant ruling on Indigenous land rights since Mabo and Wik. But if it demonstrates the usefulness of courts as a place to seek redress, it also underlines the weaknesses of that system. Courts take a long time to get anything done. The first native title claim for Timber Creek was filed in 1999. It was not until 2006 that that claim was determined in favour of the Ngaliwurru and Nungali peoples establishing that they did, in law, hold title over lands that they had occupied for thousands of years. And it was not until 13 years later that they were awarded compensation for the loss of parts of this title. The native title system is also notoriously limited and limiting. There might be many potential claimants for compensation, more deserving than the traditional owners of Timber Creek, who do not meet the strict demands of native title. Leaders from around the world condemned Friday's brutal terror attack in Christchurch that left 49 people dead and dozens more injured. Australian man Brenton Tarrant, 28, has been taken into custody as a key suspect in the attack at two Mosques in central Christchurch and appeared in court on Saturday morning. 'Home grown love for all': Locals lay flowers near the Al Noor Mosque in Christchurch on Saturday morning. Credit:Jason South Tarrant live-streamed himself shooting indiscriminately at worshippers just after 1.30 New Zealand time. Prime Minister Scott Morrison named the incident as right-wing terrorism and said his thoughts and prayers were with the Muslim communities in Australia and New Zealand. Veteran broadcaster Barrie Cassidy will retire this year from ABC's Insiders, the Sunday morning political panel program he founded in 2001 and has hosted ever since. Cassidy announced on Friday night he would vacate the hosting chair on June 9, allowing him to remain in the role to cover the federal election, expected in May. Cassidy opens the Sunday morning program with a short, standing monologue. Credit:Meredith O'Shea The 69-year-old made the announcement while giving an acceptance speech for the prestigious Lifetime Achievement award at the Melbourne Press Club's annual Quill Awards for Excellence in Journalism, in recognition of a journalistic career spanning five decades. In his speech, quoted by the ABC, the broadcaster was coy on who his replacement might be for the highly-coveted hosting gig. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo speaks during a news conference at the State Department in Washington, U.S., March 15. Reuters U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Friday that he is hopeful nuclear negotiations with North Korea will continue, after Pyongyang reportedly said it may quit talks. The two countries came away empty handed from a second summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Vietnam last month. "We are hopeful that we can continue to have conversation, negotiations," Pompeo told reporters. He added that the United States has "every expectation" that Kim will honor his commitment to Trump and continue refraining from nuclear and missile tests. The summit ended without an agreement due to differences over the scope of the North's denuclearization and the potential sanctions relief from the U.S. In Pyongyang, Friday, North Korean Vice Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui said her regime had no interest in engaging in "negotiations of this kind," criticizing the demands the U.S. had made at the summit, according to Russia's TASS news agency. She added that the North Korean leader will soon decide on whether to continue the talks and maintain the moratorium on tests. Police have charged a man over a shooting in Perth's south-east after a siege and in the wake of a three-day manhunt. Hari Darsan Ganeshan, 28, is due to face court on Saturday charged over the incident on Tuesday which sent the area surrounding Wingrove Road in Langford into lockdown. Police will allege between midday and 1pm, the 29-year-old victim went to the Wingrove Road home to speak to the man, and while there was shot in the stomach. Police were searching for Mr Ganeshan in the days following the incident and put out a warning to the public not to approach the man if they spotted him. At 1.40pm local time, a man who identified himself as Brenton Tarrant burst into a mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand, and possibly another, shooting and killing upwards of dozens of panicked and huddled Muslim worshippers at point-blank range shortly before Friday prayers began, laughing insanely as he carried out what can only be described as IS-level violence. We know this much because the Australian gunman live-streamed his grotesque terrorist attack to his Facebook account. What we do know about Tarrant, however, at least based on his social media accounts, is his profile reads as the sum total of every counter-terrorism practitioner's and academic's fear, one that law-enforcement agencies throughout the Western hemisphere have long warned to be the No. 1 terror threat: right-wing extremism. More specifically, Tarrant represents the dangerous convergence between broken white men and extreme right-wing media, bearing in mind that 100 per cent of all terrorist attacks carried out on US soil in 2018 were carried out by right-wing extremists, with the Southern Poverty Law Centre crediting a toxic combination of political polarisation, anti-immigrant sentiment and modern technologies that help spread propaganda online. After years spent trying to recapture the imagination (and money) of Australian consumers, Sony Mobile appears to have thrown in the towel. Though the company hasn't made any public announcements, it's now become clear that no new Xperia devices are coming to the local market despite being made available overseas, and even previously released Sony phones will become increasingly difficult to find. Global Sony Mobile president Mitsuya Kishida holds the new Xperia 1. Like the last two Xperia flagships, it will not make it to Australia. It doesn't particularly come as a surprise, at least not to me. I haven't received a press release about a Sony phone since April last year. Since then, the company has released two flagship phones internationally the Xperia XZ2 Premium and XZ3 but neither have made it to Australia. At MWC, the world's biggest technology convention for all things mobile, earlier this month, representatives from virtually all the major mobile brands reached out to offer assets and details about their new phones, but I heard nothing about the just-announced Xperia 1. A Turkish court has convicted an Australian-born Islamic State militant of belonging to a terror group and sentenced him to more than seven years in prison. Neil Prakash, a former rapper from Melbourne, has been in a Turkish prison since 2016 when he was arrested near the Syrian border for attempting to cross into Turkey with fake documents. Neil Prakash, who is also known as Abu Khalid al-Cambodi. Turkish prosecutors said the 27-year-old had illegally crossed into Syria in 2013, where he joined IS. He had featured in IS videos, been linked to several attack plans in Australia and has urged lone wolf attacks against the United States. People's lives must take priority over industrial power. From Unsplash By Amanda Price Parts of South Korea have been blanketed in fine dust particles again. On March 13, pollution in Sangdaewon-dong in Gyeonggi Province was at emergency level. No-one there should have been outdoors. More recently, the National Assembly declared the fine dust pollution would now be classified as "a social disaster". Amid these alerts for citizens and government announcements, accusations seem to surface. Subtly, and then sometimes blatantly, we are informed that someone else is largely responsible for this mess. While the bull's eye has been painted firmly on China, the Minister for the Environment, Cho Myung-rae, recently announced that North Korea was also to blame. Of course, air is not restricted by national borders, but North Korea? Scientists are beginning to wonder what they should do with the mounting evidence that Korea's fine dust pollution is more the result of domestic causes, than pollution drifting in from China or North Korea. But then again, what do environmental scientists know? The circumstantial evidence suggests we should lay the greatest portion of blame on others, so let's do that. This seems to be the attitude held by many Korean politicians, and, according to the Korean Economic Institute, it is an attitude that has delayed and complicated policies that should have been implemented years ago. It is also an attitude that costs lives. In 2016, the same Korean Government teamed with NASA in a joint venture to investigate and track the behavior and flow of fine dust particles, in particular PM2.5. NASA planes followed the fine dust for months and collected samples at various altitudes. Together with South Korea's National Institute of Environmental Research (NIER), they developed a model that answered the questions that everyone was asking. In 2018, the findings were announced to the Korean Government. NASA scientist and Program Manager, Barry Lefer, reported, "Our conclusion was that the local emissions are a strong source of ozone and small particles. The model said that over half of the air pollution is coming from local sources and the rest is coming from other countries." (emphasis mine) The findings of this lengthy and expensive experiment confirmed the fine dust particle pollution was a problem in which South Korea had an equal, if not greater share. These expert findings, by Korean and NASA authorities, have been largely ignored or replaced with circumstantial speculation. Consequently, most Koreans have been given reason to believe that China is largely responsible for Korea's pollution. This is a 2018 interview with Professor Chang Limseok, Director of NIER's Air Quality Forecasting Centre. Chang was also part of the Korea-US Air Quality Study (KORUS-AQ Campaign). His expert analysis is very insightful. The professor's interview begins 7:13 minutes into the video . Korean citizens should not be held accountable for believing misinformation; it is simply what happens when science is filtered through politicians and the media. Scientifically empirical evidence is tossed aside in favor of speculation, and speculation is turned into headlines. Headlines sell. Science, particularly pure science, does not. Meanwhile, as people are encouraged to point fingers at China, the Korean Government is only beginning to change what it should have changed years ago. Shanghai, China, on an average day. Once an agricultural society, then an industrialized society, China now aims to become an ecological society. From Unsplash China, by contrast, has responded to its air quality dilemma with reforms and radical government restructuring. While on first impression this may "seem too little too late," independent experts have confirmed there is significant change. According to University of Chicago research, China has already reduced its pollution in some areas by 42 percent. While China still has a long way to go and much to answer for, it is still moving in a forward direction. Having churned out an appalling amount of pollution into the atmosphere, China is now committed to building an "ecological society". What is more astounding is that previously cynical experts say that it looks to be working. The news that China denies all responsibility is far from accurate. China has simply refused to accept 80 percent of the blame. None of this is to suggest that China is blameless, only that China has chosen the things it can change and made them a priority. According to Chang, the methodology of air quality control is to change what is in your power to change. The fine dust particles created by natural causes, and the approximately 40 percent that comes from other countries, are not directly within Korea's power to change. What Korea can change is its own man-made causes, as well as the value it places on pure unbiased science. The solutions to Korea's poor air quality are not to stop frying mackerel, nor hope for a change in the weather. The solutions will require extensive research (by experts), but solutions are within reach. There is no need for hand wringing or "Oh, what shall we do?" other countries are already demonstrating what must be done. The imperative is not only the country's future, but the present state of people's health. For far too many families, delay has resulted in the death of their loved ones a situation that defies understanding. Researchers have discovered that fine dust particles may cause dementia and even Alzheimer's disease. From Unsplash By Emanuel Pastreich The contradictions of contemporary China were on my mind during my trip to Shanghai in February, 2019. After all, China is not just some country and observing it is not just an amusement. What China becomes, or does not become, will determine our common future. As I looked around Shanghai, I was thinking about how the American government, and American corporations, have slipped into corruption and militarism, and our distracted population barely notices what is happening. Perhaps I was hoping that China might offer some alternative, but ultimately I was disappointed. I have followed China for thirty years as part of my career. Many of my colleagues in Asian studies have remarked to me in conversation that they think the country will play a critical role in the world at a future date, perhaps in thirty years. Recently, I find that the American media is so biased that I must seek out alternative sources and that has drawn me closer to Facebook as a result. And interestingly, I found many of the more informative articles about US foreign policy posted on a Facebook group dedicated to China's President Xi Jinping. This Xi site was not a public relations site, although it did include some government publications. This Facebook group was one of the few with a large membership that addresses issues in the US and Asia. Some of the articles present China as a model for the world, a country that is eliminating poverty, that is increasing renewable energy and that has a cultural vitality unlike the West. But my reading of these glowing reports has left me skeptical. China has tremendous strengths, but I see the same consumption culture, the same indifference to the environment and the same definition of human worth in monetary terms there too. The articles posted in the group described how China is helping countries in Africa to build power plants and factories and how it is constructing more bridges at home than any other country. They describe a wealthy China covered with massive building projects that has avoided the endless wars of the United States. But in light of the catastrophe that is climate change, highways and airports should be shut down, and not more built. We know that the same flawed and dangerous ideology of "growth" has infected China, at least as badly. Economics in China is defined in terms of consumption and production, and the impact of such actions on the environment is ignored. If China promotes "growth and consumption" economics globally, if it continues to fund coal-powered plants and airports along the "Silk Road," we face a grim future. The fact that China is doing a better job of introducing solar and wind power domestically than the US is not comforting. The interiors of the restaurants in Shanghai were immaculate, at least as clean as anything in Seoul, or Tokyo. The food was delicious and the service was impeccable. But the waste of food was horrific and it was no longer so easy to converse with those serving. I saw no awareness of ecology in the advertisements that everyone must look at. In fact I did not find a single reference anywhere to climate change. Young Chinese toss away plastic cups without a thought about their environmental impact. Western-style skyscrapers are overrunning Shanghai. Their grand interiors waste energy on a massive scale. They also create tremendous distance between the workers within and the community around them. The small shops and stores that made up the more human Shanghai are being torn down to make way for big construction projects. Fashion stores, Starbucks and various restaurants catering to the rich and the bored continue to proliferate with little concern for the actual needs of ordinary people. Posters on every corner suggest that people must have a big house and a luxurious automobile in order to be happy. When I visited Shanghai for the first time in 1990 I met with professors of classical Chinese literature at Fudan University and their students at dirty restaurants and unadorned dormitories. The spaces we met in were dark because energy was expensive people had a sense of the real cost of things. I felt that the students I met spent their days reading books and pondering serious questions. I watched the Chinese movie "The Wandering Planet" (directed by Guo Fan and based on the novel by Liu Cixin ? ) while in Shanghai. I had read about the controversy surrounding The Economist's critical review of the movie and the Chinese response. The title of this article in the February 16 edition of The Economist was simply "Xi Jinping thought saves the world." The dismissive tone was evident from the first line, "The apocalypse looms. There is only one hope for the human race: China." A firestorm raged online among Chinese people concerning this review. I was recently forwarded a humorous response to the Economist by the famous blogger Thomas Hon Wing Polin entitled, "Saving the World is also a Western Monopoly." I was recently forwarded a humorous response to the Economist by the famous blogger Thomas Hon Wing Polin entitled, "Saving the World is also a Western Monopoly." Polin noted," The first "Feeling Korea, through Poem" hosted by the Korean Culture Center in Beijing. Photo by Ko Sung-hwah By Ko Sung-hwah In the summer of 2018, Korean Culture Center in Beijing hosted the first "Feeling Korea, through Poem." Contest. This contest was opened to members of the public who are interested in poetry, and to other professional poets and writers. As the title indicates, the purpose was to make a big step forward in Korean-Chinese literature exchange and cooperation. The Korean Culture Center in Beijing held the awards ceremony last September. Fortunately, a small booklet of 29 outstanding awarded collections came into my hands. More than 1,000 poems were submitted from all over China, written by people of many ages: from very young primary schoolchildren to seniors. Most offered a colorful presentation of Korea in various topics and areas. Ko Sung-hwah. This first collection consisted of four main parts. Part 1: Telling the Poem delivered congratulatory messages and evaluating comments. The contributors were deeply moved by how Korean-Chinese friendship can be blended through the melody of poetry, and expressed a wish that the afterglow of these poems would flow peacefully and widely. In Part 2: See through the Poem, Chinese experts contributed their pieces of art; showing Korean nature and charm or the grandness of Korean history. Part 3: Feel with Poem was where the awarded poems were presented. They covered the diversity of Korean culture and local beauty. Part 4: Photo Story introduced photo collections that represented Korean colors and features that harmonized with the poems. The table of contents for the award-winning poems. Photo by Ko Sung-hwah Among the professionals' works, I'd like to present a short work from Sun Xiaoya's "Smile of Bodhi." "We just gazed at one another in silence. We laughed heartily gazing each other. Our laughter planted silent barley (bodhi)." It is always amazingly attractive how Chinese-Korean translation can sometimes bring different meanings that all make sense in the context. It seemed like the poet was presenting this poem to a particular friend; nonetheless, in terms of Korean-Chinese relations, I found it somewhat impressive. Although it was short, it was strong. "The Legend of Hallasan." Photo by Ko Sung-hwah BRIDGEPORT A Bridgeport Police lieutenant and sergeant who discovered the body of a colleague who committed suicide were suspended this week for not following orders, Chief Armando Perez confirmed Friday. Lt. Ronald Mercado and Sgt. James Geremiah were suspended without pay for not following orders, Perez said. He did not specify what those orders were, but the chief said he expected the two cops work status to be switched during the next few days from suspended to on administrative leave with pay. Mercado and Geremiah could not be reached Friday for comment. They discovered the body of Sgt. Mark Belinkie at his home in Milford on March 2. Police said Belinkie committed suicide. (Belinkies suicide) was a critical incident, Perez said. It has saddened and shaken all the members of the Bridgeport Police Department. Perez said that disciplining Mercado and Geremiah was not necessarily related to them finding Belinkie, but that they were suspended for recently not following the chiefs orders. But the chief also said, Ive mandated that they see a psychologist through the Employee Assistance Program offered to police officers in Bridgeport, he said. Theres things that we have available to us, and were trying to do whatever can to support them, said Sgt. Chuck Paris, head of the police union, on Friday. Geremiah and Mercado were home during their suspensions, Perez said. Belinkie was the second of two members of the Bridgeport Police Department to commit suicide within a 15-month period. Officer Thomas Lattanzio killed himself on Dec. 4, 2017. Both men were among 17 city officers cited for wrongdoing in a recently released Office of Internal Affairs report about police intervention at a 2017 party. There has been no direct evidence linking thir deaths to the incident or the investigation. Paris declined Friday to discuss specifics of the suspensions. I believe the suspension is going to be reversed and put into administrative status, Paris said. He said the suspensions had not yet affected pay for the two men, and that if the status change were made during the current pay period, Mercado nor Geremiah would not lose money. The decision to suspend them had not been made lightly, Perez said. I needed to send a message that we all need to follow the guidelines of this department to keep everyone safe, he said. The chief said his actions were not meant to demean Mercado and Geremiah. Theyre not bad cops, he said. STAMFORD A long-awaited audit has revealed that the former marina supervisor convicted of stealing $60,000 from city accounts in fact took $93,000. And the city cant sell the boat that the former supervisor, Sean Elumba, put up as restitution until it can be repaired. City Auditor Teresa Viscariello Thursday presented the results of her audit to the Board of Finance, which requested the review. Viscariello said she found the additional thefts after she extended the audit back five years, expanding on the three years examined by Stamford police, who came up with the $60,000 figure. Elumba had access to city accounts set up with certain vendors for purchasing items and materials needed to repair and maintain city marinas. He admitted to buying things not needed for marina work then selling them for cash. Viscariello said the review was challenging. The marina departments storage room was a mess, she said, making it difficult to find items that invoices indicated had been purchased. The marina snow blower, for example, was found in the storage room used by the parks department. She found invoices that were not signed or dated, Viscariello said, and many invoices contained no description of what had been purchased. She found no evidence of inventory reports for materials or maintenance records for equipment, and no employee whose task it was to track purchases from vendors. Elumba was the only employee who signed the invoices, Viscariello found. Purchases failed to comply with the citys Accounting Policy and Procedures Manual and the Purchasing Ordinance, she said. She found a general failure to safeguard marina department purchased assets, Viscariello wrote in her review. This is a matter of lack of internal controls, board Vice Chair Mary Lou Rinaldi said after hearing the audit results. That, and out-and-out theft. Elumba, who was arrested in May, pleaded guilty to felony first-degree larceny in September. A judge then handed down an eight-year suspended sentence and four years of probation, with no jail time. As part of the plea agreement, Elumba agreed to give up his boat a 26-foot Regulator fishing craft built in 2004 to cover what he stole from the Marina Fund. The boat is being prepared for sale, Director of Legal Affairs Kathryn Emmett told finance board members during the meeting. It was stored in such a way that it needs some attention before it can be sold, Emmett said, adding she doesnt know yet how much the city can hope to recoup from the sale. Members of the board have said they want the city to be made whole, whatever the amount which now clocks in at $93,000. States Attorney Richard Colangelo has said that any additional amount due to the city could be addressed through Elumbas probation terms. Elumbas job was to maintain the marinas, docks, boat ramps, harbor buoys, and other equipment, and manage inventory and operating expenses for his department, including purchase of supplies. He told police he was struggling with alcohol and drug dependence and resold items he purchased for money to fuel his addiction, according to his arrest affidavit. Viscariello told the finance board that, to prevent future abuses, the city should consider purchasing inventory tracking software, or at least create an Excel worksheet for logging purchases. A city employee other than the marina supervisor must oversee all purchases from vendors, she said, and invoices must include descriptions of items, including photographs, to make clear what was purchased. A parks supervisor should conduct random checks of the marina departments storage facility to verify purchases, said Viscariello, who also laid out procedures for submitting and processing invoices. How will we track this? Rinaldi asked. Viscariello said the operations manager of parks has agreed to implement her recommendations, and in January established new purchasing guidelines for the entire department. She has met with the operations manager monthly to make sure the checks are in place, Viscariello said. Finance board members in the past have asked whether Elumba, who worked for the city for five years, ultimately earning $75,535 annually, was eligible for a pension when he was fired in 2018. Elumba did not have enough tenure to earn a pension, but the amount he contributed toward it through payroll deductions about $5,000 could be returned to him. Rinaldi, as an officer with the Classified Employees Retirement Fund, was seeking state permission to block the reimbursement. acarella@stamfordadvocate.com; 203-964-2296. STAMFORD Developer Building and Land Technology has filed applications with the city to build another two buildings in the South Ends Harbor Point. The buildings, each with 180 units in a 15-story outcrop above a multi-story base, are proposed for two roughly 1.3-acre vacant blocks on the southernmost edge of the neighborhood on either side of Harbor Point Road, where it hits Pacific Street and Dyke Lane. BLTs application as proposed may have an uphill battle, though the city has already granted a general approval when it approved Harbor Point for buildings of that size on those blocks. The developer again plans to use foam-like facade material that it has on nearly all its other South End buildings, which Zoning Board members increasingly decry and the Land Use Bureau has targeted in new urban design guidelines. The material, exterior insulation and finish system or EIFS, so bothers some that state Rep. David Michel, D-146, even introduced a bill this legislative session to ban the substance in Connecticut. Its used for cheap development, Michel said. Its plastic pollution. Zoning Board Chair David Stein has called for builders to use varying materials, getting away from EIFS and steel. Ted Ferrarone, BLTs chief operating officer, said in an email that the company uses EIFS because its one of the best products available for building facades. EIFS is energy efficient, durable and attractive. EIFS allows for a wide degree of variety both in colors and patterns, he wrote. Over the years, EIFS has been approved on projects throughout the city by the Zoning Board. What the board has mentioned to us is that they are looking for additional variety for building facades. For our part, we are confident that we can accomplish this through the use of EIFS and look forward to presenting to the Zoning Board. While the exterior could provide friction in the approval process, it is what is inside the buildings or whats absent that will likely prove more contentious. BLT seeks a buyout of a city mandate that builders make 10 percent all units in large complexes affordable, for those making half of the areas median income. In recent months, the Zoning Board has been less accepting of such buyouts forcing builders to include at least some of the mandated units. In these two buildings, BLT would be required to install 36 units. Ferrarone said BLT would like to send its buyout to the nonprofit Housing Development Fund, which started a program with another BLT buyout to help low-income South End residents buy homes. The South End Neighborhood Revitalization Zone rallied against the first buyout plan that created HDFs program. No hearings are yet set, but BLTs plans will be discussed by Zoning Board members at their Monday evening meeting on the Government Centers fourth floor. barry.lytton@stamfordadvocate.com; 203-964-2263; @bglytton A fire killed at least eight people and left 15,000 others without shelter after raging through a northeast Nigerian camp for people displaced by a war against Islamist insurgents, aid group Norwegian Refugee Council said on Saturday. Northeast Nigeria is ground zero for one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, sparked by a now decade-long conflict with Boko Haram and its splinter group Islamic State West Africa Province. Roughly 2 million people have been displaced by the war, often living in squalid camps with little food, shelter or medicine. "The source of the fire was a spark from a cooking stove, used by a child preparing her food," Norwegian Refugee Council said on Twitter, describing the disaster in the town of Gajiram in Borno, the state worst hit by the conflict. "Immediately, the family shelter, made of dry vegetation, was ablaze...The survivors of the fire are now left without shelters & clean water to drink & cook. They are dispersed, desperately seeking shelters under trees or under the direct sunlight." Some 6,000 children and more than 4,000 pregnant and nursing women were among those affected, it added. In recent weeks, Nigerian and Chadian forces have launched an offensive against Islamic State's Lake Chad stronghold after being on the back for much of 2018 and early 2019. The Nigerian military has said it has killed dozens of insurgent fighters. Reuters has been unable to verify the figures. Many aid groups expect the humanitarian crisis to last years. Search Keywords: Short link: A Lion Air Boeing 737 Max 8 airplane is parked on the tarmac at Soekarno Hatta International Airport near Jakarta, Indonesia, March 15. Reuters For more than six decades, the Federal Aviation Administration has relied on employees of airplane manufacturers to do government-required safety inspections as planes are being designed or assembled. But critics say the system, dubbed the "designee program," is too cozy as company employees do work for an agency charged with keeping the skies safe while being paid by an industry that the FAA is regulating. "There is a potential conflict of interest," said Todd Curtis, a former Boeing safety engineer and creator of airsafe.com, a website that focuses on airline safety. "They (the FAA) don't have the money to do all of the oversight. It's a question of being practical." The FAA's oversight duties are coming under greater scrutiny after two deadly crashes of Boeing 737 Max jets, operated by airlines in Ethiopia and Indonesia, killed 346 people. The U.S. was nearly alone in allowing the planes to keep flying until it relented Wednesday after getting satellite evidence showing the crashes may be linked. The FAA concedes that it doesn't have the resources to keep up with the growing aviation industry, and experts say it lacks the personnel to inspect every component, especially those made in other countries. But the agency says the designee program's results speak for themselves. The U.S. has the safest skies in the world. Until April of last year, U.S. passenger airlines had not had a single fatality since 2009, while carrying several billion passengers. But safety experts say it's time to look into the agency's relationship with Boeing, based in Chicago. The FAA's ties to the company were revealed when Boeing and the agency released similar messages shortly after the Indonesian airliner crashed in October and again this week, when the FAA announced that Boeing would upgrade the Max's flight-control software, said Mary Schiavo, a former Transportation Department inspector general. With the messages, the FAA "revealed that they were just parroting what Boeing told them," she said. The agency needs more people with technical skills to adequately monitor a company that makes machines as sophisticated as today's jets, she said, contending that it didn't understand the Max's flight-control computer program. "The FAA readily states they don't understand the 4 million lines of code and the 150 computers," Schiavo said. "What they do is see that Boeing follows the process they check the FAA boxes. The public thinks the FAA has more involvement." In fact, the agency's own website says that employees of manufacturers can approve design changes and aircraft repairs. "Using designees for routine certification tasks allows the FAA to focus its limited resources on safety critical certification issues," it says. A Boeing spokesman said company employees get regular training and oversight from the FAA. "The long-standing collaborative engagement between the Federal Aviation Administration, Boeing, its customers and industry partners has created the safest transportation system in the world," spokesman Daniel Curran said in an email. The FAA requirements in the designee program "ensure that Boeing employees serving in this capacity act independently on behalf of the FAA," he added. Congress will examine the relationship between Boeing and the FAA. Rep. Peter A. DeFazio (D-Ore.), chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said he would hold hearings on the FAA's process for approving the planes. The agency's practice of delegating certification processes has come under scrutiny before. In a 1993 report, the Government Accountability Office warned that the FAA was falling behind the industry in technical competence because of a lack of training, and the delegation of tasks to manufacturers. The report said 95 percent of certification work for the Boeing 747-400 jetliner was delegated to the manufacturer in 1989. By comparison, 70 percent to 75 percent of that work was done by the FAA in the early 1980s. In a separate report in 2005, the GAO said the FAA had no requirements for evaluating its designated certification workers within the industry. It also had incomplete records about safety violations that occurred during the inspection process. FAA designees have also run afoul of the law. Last February, Edward Carl Fernandez, an FAA-designated representative in Florida, pleaded guilty to falsely certifying the airworthiness of aviation parts. Between 2010 and 2013, prosecutors said, Fernandez would sign off on parts from an aviation repair company in exchange for cash. Checks by employees paid by the airplane makers are reviewed by government inspectors. In a 2017 video, FAA Assistant Administrator Peggy Gilligan said the agency had 6,000 engineers and aircraft inspectors overseeing 7,500 designees in aircraft certification and flight standards. Another 4,000 designees were working at FAA-approved companies such as parts suppliers. Curtis, who worked for Boeing from 1991 to 2000, said the system was designed so that company employees would defer to the FAA if they found something wrong. Peter Goelz, a former National Transportation Safety Board managing director who is now an aviation safety consultant, said the system has worked well for years. "But at times like this, people start to question it," he said. He's not one of them, though, saying that the proof is in the outcome. "We have had the safest aviation system in the world for a long time," Goelz said. "The size of the bureaucracy you would need to move to a completely gotcha environment would be simply unsustainable.'' James Hall, a former chairman of the NTSB, said he thinks the agency may have become complacent. "We have a good system,'' said Hall, adding, "but sometimes people go to sleep when things are going well. It's time to wake up." (AP) News Premium On the 20th anniversary of Wexford container tragedy in which eight migrants died how the life of one of the survivors has turned out You can take the boy out of Latvia, but you cant take Latvia out of the boy. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 16/3/2019 (1000 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. You can take the boy out of Latvia, but you cant take Latvia out of the boy. Toronto author and filmmaker David Bezmozgis was six in 1980 when his parents came to Canada from Riga, the capital of the Baltic country which, at the time, was still a Soviet republic. Bezmozgis explored both his parents and his own youthful situation as Latvian Jews in his much-praised debut collection, Natasha and Other Stories, released in 2004. Now 15 years on, with two novels and two feature films under his belt, he is still focused on the bewildering immigrant experience in prosperous North America. In Immigrant City, a readable though unambitious effort, his characters struggle with dislocation, the temptation to cut ethical corners for economic expediency and their inability to escape the past. In that regard, Bezmozgis singular achievement remains his 2011 novel, The Free World, based on his parents and grandparents history in making their way out of eastern Europe. As in Natasha, most of the seven stories in Immigrant City, a slender collection of less than 50,000 words, are set in Toronto and feature protagonists who seem versions of the author or his family members. Whereas all the stories in Natasha had first-person narrators, only the first three do here. The collection opens with the title story. The protagonist, an unnamed writer, has damaged the door of his SUV and searches out an inexpensive replacement among the citys Somali underclass. Despite the Somalis alien quality hijab-wearing women and dope-smoking teens the narrator sees numerous parallels to his own familys parochial lives a generation earlier in their dingy north Toronto highrises. Now a responsible adult, Bezmozgis drug-selling teenage alter ego in Natasha, Mark Berman, is the protagonist of a minor story, Childhood, in which he takes his eight-year-old son to a child psychologist like other prosperous Toronto Jews. Marks massage-therapist father reappears here in the story Romans Song, rebuffing a dubious business offer from two petty criminals. In arguably the strongest story, Little Rooster, the narrator investigates the family mystery of his late grandfathers secret relationship with a Latvian Gentile woman and her sullen daughter. The past is invariably a major character. In A New Gravestone for an Old Grave, a young Los Angeles lawyer travels at his fathers behest back to his native Riga to insist that a stone be erected on his grandfathers grave. What he sees in Latvia, "remarkable in its blondness," is the difficult life that could have been his had his own parents not emigrated. A failed Russian boxer turned nightclub doorman in Toronto negotiates both the past and present in the concluding story, The Russian Riviera. Bezmozgis writes with an understated craft and lack of sentimentality. Like his literary mentor, the late American writer Leonard Michaels, he boasts a dry wit and a refusal to indulge in self-pity. Compared with, say, Gary Shteyngart, another former Soviet Jew who has mined his own life for fiction, Bezmozgis is a model of comic restraint. The main problem here, though, is he shows no sign of exploring new territory. Many of the stories, even the better ones, read like a chapter of an unfinished or abandoned novel. One cant shake the feeling that this collection is a placeholder until a new novel, with a wider subject, announces itself to him. Morley Walker is a retired Free Press journalist. SUNDERLAND, England - With Britain's departure from the European Union likely to be put on hold, some Brexit supporters fear their dream is dying. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 16/3/2019 (1000 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Former U.K. Independence Party (UKIP) leader and member of the European Parliament Nigel Farage holds a U.K. flag during a plenary session at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, eastern France, Wednesday, March 13, 2019. British lawmakers rejected May's Brexit deal in a 391-242 vote on Tuesday night. Parliament will vote Wednesday on whether to leave the EU without a deal. (AP Photo/Jean Francois Badias) SUNDERLAND, England - With Britain's departure from the European Union likely to be put on hold, some Brexit supporters fear their dream is dying. But they aren't giving up without a fight or at least, a long walk. Hard-core Brexiteers led by former U.K. Independence Party leader Nigel Farage set out Saturday on a two-week "Leave Means Leave" march between northeast England and London, accusing politicians of "betraying the will of the people." They plan to finish at Parliament in London on March 29, the day the U.K. was supposed to leave. That deadline now looks unlikely. With British politicians deadlocked over departure terms, lawmakers voted Thursday to seek to delay Brexit until at least June 30. "If you have seen what's happening in Parliament this week, we may well not be leaving the EU," said Brexit figurehead Farage, who joined the protest dressed for a country walk in tweed cap and Barbour jacket. "If politicians think they can walk all over us, we're going to march back and tell them they can't." For the 100-200 Brexit believers who showed up to march on a wet, cold day, the gridlock in Parliament is confirmation that Britain's politicians have no intention on cutting the country's ties with the 28-nation EU. "People now are just fed up with the whole situation and want to get out," said John Harrington, who travelled from Southend on England's south coast. "Now with it being prolonged, it could just go on forever." Like many things connected to Britain's departure from the EU, the Brexit march didn't go completely to plan. Chaos reigned as protesters set off in a cold rain down a muddy North Sea coast path in Sunderland, a former shipbuilding city 270 miles (435 kilometres) north of London. The starting point was changed at the last minute for what organizers said were security reasons. Even so, a small band of pro-EU protesters caught up with the Brexiteers, singing a ditty telling them where they could shove Brexit. The marchers responded with bad-tempered shouts of "traitors" and "losers." Protestors walk along the coastline at the start of the first leg of March to Leave the European Union, in Sunderland, England, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Hard-core Brexiteers led by former U.K. Independence Party leader Nigel Farage set out on a two-week "Leave Means Leave" march between northern England and London, accusing politicians of "betraying the will of the people." (AP Photo/Frank Augstein) "I don't think we're marching," Farage said as he was propelled along by a phalanx of security guards. "We're sort of shuffling." Farage doesn't plan to walk the entire route. Those who do will not cover the whole distance on foot some legs will be covered by vehicle. The marchers plan to travel through pro-Brexit heartlands starting in Sunderland, which voted by 61 per cent to 39 per cent in June 2016 to leave the EU. Many here stand by that decision, despite warnings that Brexit could damage rather than help the local economy. Japanese automaker Nissan employs 6,700 people at its plant in the city, and supports thousands more jobs through its supply chain. In February, Nissan cancelled plans to build a new SUV in Sunderland. That reversed a decision announced two years ago after Prime Minister Theresa May's government offered some 60 million pounds in incentives. Last week, Nissan's Infiniti division announced it would move production of two models from Sunderland, in another blow to jobs there. The company says the decisions are not directly related to Brexit, but the auto industry has warned that a no-deal departure would destroy the complex international supply chains that carmakers rely on. Jim Kerr, 60, does not believe the economic warnings. He said Sunderland has long been ignored by policymakers, whether in London or Brussels. "In the northeast, many of our industries have been closed," he said. "We lost our coal industry, our shipbuilding industry, our glassmaking industry. All these things are gone. "No one (elsewhere) worried about it people in London didn't worry about it, people in other parts of the country didn't worry about it." Almost three years after Britain voted to leave the EU, uncertainty reigns about when the country will leave, and on what terms. A withdrawal agreement struck between May's government and the bloc has twice been rejected by Parliament, which has also said it doesn't want to leave the EU without a deal. Amid the deadlock, Parliament voted this week to request an extension. Meanwhile, May plans a third-time-lucky vote on her Brexit deal next week. Delaying Brexit would require approval from all 27 remaining EU nations, who are fed up with the political bickering in London. They say they will only grant an extension if Britain has a solid plan for what to do with the extra time. Pro-Brexit British politicians including Farage, meanwhile, have urged populist European governments such as Italy's to veto an extension, leaving Britain to crash out of the bloc without a deal. U.K. businesses warn that a no-deal Brexit could cause huge upheaval, with customs checks causing gridlock at ports, new tariffs triggering sudden price increases and red tape for everyone from truckers to tourists. But many Brexiteers here shrug off such worries. For them, Brexit can't come soon enough, and the split from Europe can't be too complete, and compromise with the EU is anathema. "We voted to leave," said 50-year-old marcher James Murphy. "Not leave with a deal just leave." Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Not everyone in Sunderland agrees. Social care worker Mary Ann McDonald said that during the 2016 referendum, "we weren't voting for a plan. It was just the idea, and that hasn't worked out." She would prefer to remain. But she too is exasperated by the political paralysis in London. "I think it's become a circus," she said. The prospect of delay "is a relief for me personally, but I just think, What now?" ___ Follow AP's full coverage of Brexit at: https://www.apnews.com/Brexit BMW will weed out its model lineup to reduce costs as the German luxury carmaker copes with a cooling global economy and persistent trade tensions that show little sign of resolution. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 16/3/2019 (1000 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. BMW will weed out its model lineup to reduce costs as the German luxury carmaker copes with a cooling global economy and persistent trade tensions that show little sign of resolution. "The challenges facing the entire sector are unlikely to diminish in the coming months," chief executive officer Harald Krueger said Friday in a statement presenting preliminary results. "Great efforts will therefore be needed across the entire group to help shape the sectors transformation under such conditions." The company will also reorganize its management board, consolidating sales of BMW, Mini and Rolls-Royce under a central position headed by Pieter Nota, who was responsible for BMW brand sales so far. Peter Schwarzenbauer, leading Rolls-Royce and Mini cars as well as digital businesses at the Munich-based carmaker, will leave the company at the end of October when he turns 60. BMW earnings have been pressured by tariffs on vehicles made at its plant in Spartanburg, S.C., and sent to China, as well as price competition in Europe. Carmakers across the globe reduced targets last year after new emissions testing and concerns over Brexit added to the industrys woes. BMWs return on sales in the core automotive division dropped to 7.2 per cent from 9.2 per cent in 2017, below a historical eight per cent to 10 per cent range. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. BMW said it wont make a successor to the 3-Series Gran Turismo, even though the current model is selling well. More derivative versions will also be eliminated. The carmaker said it will step up other measures to reduce complexity, without specifying them. BMW cut its proposed dividend by 50 cents to 3.50 euros per common share. Carmakers arent "supermarkets, there is no good reason to sell everything," said Juergen Pieper, an analyst at Bankhaus Metzler. Getting rid of the models was "the right way," he said. "Nobody will miss them." The shares rose 0.8 per cent to 74.36 euros on Friday in Frankfurt, trimming losses over the past year to 8.7 per cent. BMWs return on automaking beat the companys goal of seven per cent. Other carmakers are chiming in with cost cuts. Volkswagen brand Audi will present a new plan in May to reignite momentum, including scaling back management ranks for savings and faster decision-making. Mercedes Benz-parent Daimler AG vowed comprehensive cost-cutting measures last month when the company presented its full-year earnings. Porsche, presenting its outlook Friday, said a boost to revenue this year from the latest 911 sports car will be partly offset by more complex emissions testing in Europe and phasing out its diesel cars. VWs most profitable brand is considering digital acquisitions to help with a goal of generating as much as 3 billion euros (US$3.4 billion) in annual revenue in three to five years. Bloomberg News PARIS - French yellow vest protesters set life-threatening fires, smashed up luxury stores in Paris and clashed with police Saturday in the 18th straight weekend of demonstrations against President Emmanuel Macron. Large plumes of smoke rose above the rioting on Paris' landmark Champs-Elysees avenue, and a mother and her child were just barely saved from a building blaze. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 16/3/2019 (1000 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. A news stand burns during a yellow vests demonstration on the Champs Elysees avenue Saturday, March 16, 2019 in Paris. French yellow vest protesters clashed Saturday with riot police near the Arc de Triomphe as they kicked off their 18th straight weekend of demonstrations against President Emmanuel Macron. (AP Photo/Christophe Ena) PARIS - French yellow vest protesters set life-threatening fires, smashed up luxury stores in Paris and clashed with police Saturday in the 18th straight weekend of demonstrations against President Emmanuel Macron. Large plumes of smoke rose above the rioting on Paris' landmark Champs-Elysees avenue, and a mother and her child were just barely saved from a building blaze. Cobblestones flew in the air and smoke from fires set by protesters mingled with clouds of tear gas sprayed by police, as tensions continued for hours along the Champs-Elysees. By dusk, as the demonstrators had dispersed, the famed avenue was a blackened expanse. The resurgent violence comes at a watershed moment for a movement, which had been fizzling in recent weeks, and at the end of a two-month-long national debate called by Macron that protesters say failed to answer their demands for economic justice. Police appeared to be caught off guard by the speed and severity of Saturday's unrest. French riot police tried to contain the demonstrators with repeated volleys of tear gas and water cannon, with limited success. Yellow vests protesters gather on the Champs Elysees avenue Saturday, March 16, 2019 in Paris. French yellow vest protesters clashed Saturday with riot police near the Arc de Triomphe as they kicked off their 18th straight weekend of demonstrations against President Emmanuel Macron. (AP Photo/Christophe Ena) One arson fire targeted a bank near the Champs-Elysees on the ground floor of a seven-story residential building. A mother and her child had to be rescued just as the fire threatened to engulf their floor, Paris' fire service told The Associated Press. Eleven people in the building, including two firefighters, sustained light injuries. A 43-year-old German factory worker who identified himself only as Peter had travelled to Paris to show solidarity with yellow vest protesters. Standing Saturday outside the burned-out bank, he said he agreed with the destruction, calling banks "the biggest problem in the world." Protest organizers had hoped to make a splash Saturday, which marks the 4-month anniversary of the yellow vest movement, which started Nov. 17, and the end of the "Great Debate" that the French president organized to respond to protesters' concerns about sinking living standards, stagnant wages and high unemployment. They claimed Macron failed in that aim. "It was hot air. It was useless and it didn't achieve anything. We're here to show Macron that empty words are not enough," said yellow vest demonstrator Frank Leblanc, 62, from Nantes. Yellow vests protesters wipe their eyes after tear gas canisters were sent during a demonstration Saturday, March 16, 2019 in Paris. French yellow vest protesters clashed Saturday with riot police near the Arc de Triomphe as they kicked off their 18th straight weekend of demonstrations against President Emmanuel Macron. (AP Photo/Christophe Ena) "We're marking the end of the great debate ... Macron has given us no great solutions," said protester Francine Sevigny from Lyon. Others praised the violence that tore through Paris. "I'm glad there are the thugs, because without them our movement wouldn't get any attention. We need the violence so we can be heard," said Marie, a mother of two from Seine-et-Marne who wouldn't give her surname. The violence started minutes after the protesters gathered Saturday, when they threw smoke bombs and other objects at officers along the Champs-Elysees the scene of repeated past rioting and started pounding on the windows of a police van. Simultaneous fires were also put out from two burning newspaper kiosks, which sent black smoke high into the sky. Several protesters posed for a photo in front of one charred kiosk. Demonstrators also targeted symbols of the luxury industry, smashing and pillaging shops including brands Hugo Boss and Lacoste, and tossing mannequins out of broken windows. A posh eatery called Fouquet's, which is associated with politicians and celebrities, was vandalized and set on fire. A vehicle burned outside the luxury boutique Kenzo, one of many blazes on and around the Champs-Elysees. Interior Minister Christophe Castaner, who inspected the damage Saturday evening on the Champs-Elysees, said an estimated 10,000 yellow vest protesters were in Paris and another 4,500 had demonstrated around France. He also said the Paris crowd included 1,500 "ultraviolent ones who are there to smash things up." Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Still, the numbers paled beside the 30,000 people who took part in a separate peaceful climate march in Paris at the same time, according to Castaner. And the number of yellow vest protesters remains smaller than early in the movement, when it drew masses to the streets nationwide and polled showed a majority of French people supporting their cause. Since then, repeated rioting by the protesters and economic concessions by Macron have diminished public support for the yellow vests. Paris police told the AP that 192 people were arrested in Paris on Saturday and 60 others were injured, 18 of them police and firefighters. The yellow vest groups represented teachers, unemployed people and labour unions. While the rioters drew most attention Saturday, most of the protesters in Paris remain peaceful. ___ Chris den Hond, Milos Krivokapic, Catherine Gaschka and Elaine Ganley in Paris contributed. Tesla Inc. CEO Elon Musk unveiled a cheaper electric crossover SUV, the Model Y, in a bid to regain momentum after a rough start to the year. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 16/3/2019 (1000 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Tesla Inc. CEO Elon Musk unveiled a cheaper electric crossover SUV, the Model Y, in a bid to regain momentum after a rough start to the year. Taking the stage Thursday night at the companys design studio in Hawthorne, Calif., Musk showed off a blue prototype of the mid-sized SUV, which is roughly 10 per cent roomier than its best-selling Model 3 sedan. Three higher-end versions of the new vehicle will start delivery in fall 2020, with a standard one available in spring 2021, priced at US$39,000 and equipped with a 370-kilometre battery, according to the company. Getting the new vehicle into production quickly will be key for Tesla to build on the momentum of its Model 3, a less-expensive sedan thats catapulted the automaker up the sales charts and helped Musk post back-to-back quarterly profits for the first time. The new Model Y may also help Tesla shift its lineup toward the tastes of U.S. consumers, who are increasingly ditching sedans for bigger crossovers and SUVs. "Entering the SUV/crossover market effectively doubles Teslas addressable market," Gene Munster, a managing partner of venture capital firm Loup Ventures, wrote ahead of the event. Musk, 47, took the stage at Teslas design studio before a crowd of customers and fans, but was uncharacteristically subdued. He spent much of his presentation talking about the companys struggles with manufacturing. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. "He was not the usual charismatic Elon Musk. He was super low-key," said Michael Harley, executive editor of Kelley Blue Book, who was at the event. "He was almost apologetic. It was a bit of a reality check. People in the crowd like the car, but Musk only spent a fraction of his time talking about it." Only one of the new models was driven onto the stage, where it shared the limelight with other, older vehicles. At the 2016 unveiling of the Model 3, by contrast, Musk showed off three cars and flashed the rising number of customer deposits on screen as they rolled in from people eager to be among the first in line to reserve the vehicles. At the Model Ys unveiling, Musk said nothing about taking orders or deposits, although Teslas website allows people to make "fully refundable" pre-order payments of US$2,500. The Model Y is making its official debut after a rough patch for both Tesla and Musk. In late February, the company announced it would finally offer a US$35,000 version of the Model 3, though it linked the ability to do so with a plan to close almost all of its stores and pivot to online-only ordering. This blindsided employees and investors alike, and Tesla backtracked 10 days later, saying in a blog post that more stores would remain open, but vehicle prices would have to rise by about three per cent on average worldwide. Meanwhile, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has reignited its battle with Musk over his use of Twitter early this year, after the billionaire tweeted about the companys annual production outlook without clearing the post in advance with a designated in-house lawyer. The SECs next filing in the ongoing saga is due with a federal judge in New York by March 19. Bloomberg News $10M announced to restore Manitoba Legislative Building Finance Minister Scott Fielding and Vice President of the Historical Society of Manitoba Gordon Goldsborough announce $10 million in funding for the restoration and preservation of the Manitoba Legislative Building. SAN JUAN Puerto Ricos notorious Black Widow was sentenced to life in prison Friday, 13 1/2 years after she plotted the midnight killing of her Winnipeg-born husband on a cobblestone street in historic Old San Juan. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 15/3/2019 (1000 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. SAN JUAN Puerto Ricos notorious "Black Widow" was sentenced to life in prison Friday, 13 1/2 years after she plotted the midnight killing of her Winnipeg-born husband on a cobblestone street in historic Old San Juan. Aurea Vazquez-Rijos barely flinched when the judge handed down the sentence for the murder- for-hire of her millionaire husband, developer Adam Anhang, a Winnipeg native. Vasquez-Rijos hired a hit man to kill Anhang in 2005 for a promised $3-million fee that was never paid. But before the judge delivered the life sentence, there was a sharp and electrifying exchange between Vasquez-Rijos, in chains, and the father of the victim, 80-year-old Abe Anhang, who had pursued his son's killers for more than a decade. "I hope youre happy now," Vasquez-Rijos told him from the defendants table. Glaring at the woman who had his son killed, Anhang snapped: "Shut up!" He returned to his seat visibly shaken. Also sentenced to life was a co-conspirator, Vasquez-Rijos's sister Marcia. Vasquez-Rijos was hoping to inherit $8 million from Anhangs estate. CLAUDE ADAMS PHOTO Adam Anhang's father Abe, mother Barbara and younger sister Rebecca leave old San Juan Court after Aurea Vazquez-Rijos's life sentence was ordered on Friday. A third accused, Jose Ferrer-Sosa, also got life. Ferrer-Sosa introduced the hit man to the two Vasquez-Rijos sisters, and took part in the conspiracy. Lawyers for both women said they intend to appeal. The judge recommended that the sentences be served at a federal prison in Fort Worth, Texas. The life sentences handed down by Judge Daniel Dominguez do not include the possibility of parole, although the sentence can be reduced or reversed on appeal. Fridays hearing unfolded before a packed courtroom, and spectators heard impassioned victim impact statements from members of the Anhang family and Vasquez-Rijos herself. Barbara, the victims mother, spoke in a quiet deliberate voice about how the familys hopes and dreams "were destroyed in a single stroke" when Adam was killed. "We remember the beautiful and beloved person that he was, despite being returned home in a box, stabbed, bludgeoned and disfiguredan image that haunts us until today . . . " She noted that the defendants showed "neither remorse nor contrition." Rebecca, Adams younger sister, pointed to the defendants and said: "My familys nightmare will never end. . . In our religious tradition, it is taught that when someone kills a single person, it is as though he has destroyed an entire world. . . When these defendants killed my big brother Adam, they destroyed my familys whole world. They deserve nothing less than life in prison." SUBMITTED Adam Anhang Given a chance to speak before sentencing, the diminutive widow, dressed in green prison garb, asked if the U.S. marshal could remove her handcuffs. Then she launched into a bitter attack on Abe Anhang, accusing him of character assassination and unrelenting persecution while she was living in Europe. She denied that she left Puerto Rico in 2007 to escape justice. "You lost (a son) but I lost too," she said to the Anhang family, her voice rising. "I lost a man I love. I was murdered. A part of me died. . . I am innocent and time will prove it. That is all." Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Vasquez-Rijos was at Adams side when hit man Alex "El Loco" Pabon attacked him at midnight on September 22, 2005, on an intersection in Old San Juan. Adams last words to his wife were "Run, baby, run." He was unaware of his wifes role in the conspiracy to have him killed. Testimony revealed that Adam was preparing to initiate divorce proceedings against the defendant. A Puerto Rico jury found her guilty of conspiracy to commit murder last fall in a trial that galvanized this US territory. Vasquez-Rijos Friday called the trial a "theatric show." Friday was the final chapter in a long pursuit of justice by Adams father Abe, who always believed that Vasquez-Rijos was behind his sons murder. He encouraged the FBI to investigate the widow even after the wrong man was convicted of the homicide, and Vasquez-Rijos fled to Europe. Leaving the courtroom, Adams sister Rebecca told reporters: "Tonight will be nearly the 5000th night that weve slept without Adam in our lives and well never recover from that but were really pleased and relieved that justice has been served." Asked if the sentencing meant closure for his family, Abe Anhang said, "We will never forget our son. Its closure, perhaps on this earth." city.desk@freepress.mb.ca Ten months after former University of Manitoba music professor Steve Kirby was charged with sexually assaulting one of his female students, the criminal charge has been stayed a decision the prosecutor says was made with the alleged victim in mind. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 15/3/2019 (1000 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Ten months after former University of Manitoba music professor Steve Kirby was charged with sexually assaulting one of his female students, the criminal charge has been stayed a decision the prosecutor says was made with the alleged victim in mind. The 62-year-old acclaimed jazz musician retired from the Winnipeg university in June 2017 the same month a woman went to police to file a complaint alleging Kirby had sexually assaulted her several times over the course of three years, starting in 2014, when the then-19-year-old was enrolled in the universitys music program. She would have been called to testify during Kirbys trial, which had been scheduled for two days in June. During a brief court appearance in front of a justice of the peace March 4, Crown prosecutor Mark Kantor said the case wont go ahead. MIKE APORIUS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Steve Kirby, former associate professor and director of jazz studies at the University of Manitoba school of music in 2004. "Further to the Crowns ongoing review of this case, and having considered the views of the complainant, the Crown is directing a stay of proceedings on this matter," he said. Kantor later told the Free Press he cant provide any other details. In Manitoba, Crown prosecutors arent required to publicly provide reasons when they decide not to proceed with criminal charges. Reached by phone Friday at his home in Winnipeg, Kirby declined to speak to a reporter. "I cant. Talk to my lawyer. No comment," he said. His defence lawyer, Richard Wolson, didnt respond to requests for comment. Winnipeg Police Service spokesman Const. Rob Carver said Friday no further charges have been laid against Kirby. The Free Press reached out to the young woman whose police complaint led to the sexual-assault charge, but she did not respond. Although she has no specific knowledge of this case, Jerra Fraser, a counsellor with Klinic Community Health centres sexual-assault crisis program, said there are generally many reasons a sexual-assault survivor may decide not to go through the court process. Klinic neither encourages nor discourages clients who are trying to decide whether to go to police. "Its always really personal," Fraser said, noting justice system principles built on protecting the rights of an accused person who may not be guilty can deter those who have experienced sexual assault. "We know that individuals within the legal system often are really doing their best to be trauma-informed individuals, but as a system it can feel really intimidating and unintentionally uphold these practices that are rooted in societal myths about sexual assault," Fraser said. "For some folks, using the legal system feels empowering and it feels like they get to tell their story, and it feels like theyre combating gendered violence and taking back their power. And for others, they get that need met in other ways." The University of Manitoba conducted an internal investigation into Kirbys behaviour, after students reported having experienced harassment and bullying. After news broke about the allegations long after the musician had quietly left the school university president David Barnard apologized publicly to any student who had experienced "such inappropriate behaviour," and announced five other faculty members were also being investigated for misconduct. Three of the investigations are related to matters of sexual misconduct. Kirby was arrested in May 2018, almost a year after the WPS sex crimes unit received the womans complaint and began investigating. The university has since implemented clearer policies for the disclosure of intimate relationships between students and staff. The policies discourage, but dont ban, such relationships. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. "We have some concerns that an outright ban could infringe on the legal rights of adults to enter into consensual relationships," Barnard said in an interview Thursday. "Our conversations are continuing and this will certainly be an ongoing area of focus as we address important questions with respect to these matters." katie.may@freepress.mb.ca Twitter: @thatkatiemay Jessica.Botelho@freepress.mb.ca Twitter: @_jessbu Before Barbara Perry could begin her speech, the hotel fire alarm went off. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 15/3/2019 (1000 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Before Barbara Perry could begin her speech, the hotel fire alarm went off. It was an apt metaphor for her presentation Thursday morning. The director of the Centre on Hate, Bias and Extremism at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology was in Winnipeg to raise the alarm about the growth of the far right in Canada. Hours later, dozens of people were shot and killed at two mosques in New Zealand in an attack apparently motivated by anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim anger. "Few people in Canada know about the resurgence of the far right," Perry told about 100 people gathered Thursday for Striving for Human Dignity: Race, Gender, Class & Religion, a conference organized by the Islamic Social Services Association. Using information from her 2015 report about the rise of the far right in Canada, together with more recent observations, she said there has been a 25 to 30 per cent rise in the number of far-right groups in this country. All told, Perry said, there are nearly 300 far-right groups in Canada, with most found in Quebec, Ontario and Alberta. There are an estimated eight to 10 in Manitoba. Governments, law enforcement and media have downplayed the threat posed by these groups, Perry said, preferring to highlight the danger posed by Islamic extremists. She noted Justin Bourque, who killed three RCMP officers in Moncton, N.B., in 2014, was often described as a "cop killer," without noting he was involved in sharing far-right propaganda. Yet Michael Zehaf-Bibeau, who killed Cpl. Nathan Cirillo and attacked Parliament in Ottawa, was frequently associated with Islam. "The first one terrorized a city but wasnt a terrorist, but the other was a Canadian-bred Muslim terrorist," Perry said. She went on to note police-reported hate crimes are on the rise in Canada, up 47 per cent in 2017. Most of the victims of the crimes were members of the Muslim and Jewish communities. "It would be called a crisis if it was any other kind of crime," Perry said. One of the reasons for the lack of attention to the rise of the far right in Canada is they dont look extreme, she said. More groups are presenting "a facade of legitimacy" to deflect negative attention and attract new followers. They are "representing themselves as educated and urbane, as opposed to more traditional skinhead or neo-Nazi look," Perry said. They also have "sanitized" their ideology, "removing explicitly racist language, using coded words." The far right has also started to use music to share their ideology and recruit new members. While there is still a lot of "white power" heavy metal music videos on YouTube, far-right groups are increasingly using folk and country and western music to share their messages, Perry said. "Its pretty music that can lull you to sleep," so you dont recognize what they are really saying, she said. All of this represents "conscious efforts to broaden the audience, bring in a different demographic," Perry said, noting groups are increasingly targeting older Canadians. A growing number of members of these groups are "middle-aged men, employed and well-educated," she said, noting this is "an important change in the demographic" for far-right groups. Perry said she finds the number of present and former law enforcement and military personnel involved in these groups "very disturbing." "We are seeing more evidence of that," she said, especially in a group called the III%ers, or 3%ers, which is heavily armed and whose members "show themselves with weapons and engaged in paramilitary training." To counter the rise of far-right groups, Perry suggested a "strong and visible" response from police forces, more attention by the media and holding politicians accountable when there is a "political climate in which hate emerges." Individuals and local groups can also respond by creating awareness, and through education and "anti-racism activities." Churches can play a role by talking to their members about the rise of hate groups, and by showing "allyship" for minority religions, Perry said. Ready, Pet, Go! Leesa Dahl looks at everything to do with our furry, fuzzy, feathered, fishy (and more!) pet friends. Arrives in your inbox each Monday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. This would include "building coalitions across faith groups and standing with minority religions," she said. "I dont think the general public is aware of the danger associated with these groups," she said, adding it is not just a big-city problem. "Its also happening in rural areas," Perry said, although it is "a little more hidden." faith@freepress.mb.ca Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 16/3/2019 (1000 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Comedian Ricky Gervais recently declared that "just because youre offended doesnt mean youre right." And just because youre offensive doesnt mean youre right, a point proven repeatedly by his latest television series, After Life (now available on Netflix). There are some funny jokes and a few lovely human moments in the six half-hour episodes, but mostly Gervaiss mix of comedy and drama, nastiness and mawkishness feels exhausted and exhausting. Gervais, who also writes and directs, plays Tony, a man so grief-stricken by the death of his beloved wife, Lisa (Kerry Godliman), hes decided he will say anything he likes and do anything he wants, and then when hes tired of it all, hell just kill himself. Tony lives in a picturesque English town and works at an earnest community newspaper (sample front-page headline: "Out of Date Scotch Egg Sold to Teen"). His job is to write human-interest stories, the gag being that hes currently so self-involved he has no interest in any humans other than himself. This is unfortunate, given that Tony is surrounded by some predictably terrific and criminally underused British character actors. Eventually, he is jostled back from suicidal sorrow and constant verbal cruelty into a grudging re-acceptance of the world, but After Lifes last-minute redemption scenario feels tonally awkward, abrupt and forced. Its hard to see Gervais floundering. His ground-shifting projects with Stephen Merchant, the British version of The Office (2001-03) and Extras (2005-07), pulled off a brilliantly excruciating, hugely influential form of cringe comedy. But where Gervaiss misanthropy once had a bracing quality, his current public persona as some kind of "non-PC" truth-teller particularly his ugly transphobic jokes often feels pointlessly provocative. Or just tired. After Life is fuelled not by righteous rage, but by perpetual annoyance and low-grade, middle-aged grumpiness, which is projected onto retail workers, mail carriers, restaurant servers and nincompoop colleagues. Gervais is not exactly punching up, and theres some relief when he goes after targets with some degree of privilege, as when one of Tonys newspaper subjects claims a damp stain on his wall looks like Kenneth Branagh. "All damp stains look like Kenneth Branagh," Tony points out. "Hes featureless." The comedy also sours because of Tonys smugness. Gervais gets sole scripting credit and perhaps not surprisingly Tony is always written as the smartest guy in the room. Many of Tonys encounters are so heavily slanted in his favour that even when hes intellectually right about things, many viewers emotional sympathy will be with the poor, dim-witted objects of his scorn. And its not quite clear how deliberate this is. One of the reasons The Offices David Brent is both so funny and at points so unbearably poignant is his utter lack of self-awareness. Andy Millman in Extras is tragicomic because he is just self-aware enough to hate himself, but not quite self-aware enough to change. This tricky dynamic between the viewer and Gervaiss protagonists that we could see things they couldnt, or wouldnt made for complex and painful comedy. But what are we supposed to make of Tony, as he threatens a small child or mocks a heavyset co-worker or makes fun of the unemployed, often in lazy and unfunny ways? Gervais seems to be aggressively demanding our goodwill. The plot hinges on the notion that the formerly nice Tony has suddenly become curdled and bitter because of the loss of his wife. But Tonys nastiness has a set-in quality. His reactions have the kind of abrasive unpleasantness that comes from long-standing practice. In fact, a lot of his meanest jokes feel like material that didnt make it into Gervaiss standup. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Gervais also attempts to get us onside with some fundamentally unfair sentimentality. Yes, Tony is suffering and Gervaiss dramatic performance can be quite nuanced but the script doesnt explore grief so much as wield it as an excuse. In particular, Tonys dead wife feels like a plot device mostly because all she does is talk about him. Youre a lovely man, Lisa keeps telling Tony, via videos that she secretly made while she was dying. Youre funny, youre smart, youre decent, youve got a good heart, Lisa tells him and by extension, us. Other characters chime in, and just in case we still dont get it, Gervais gives Tony a dog a swell dog but again, this feels like a ploy. Meanwhile, Tony continues to behave in horrible ways. Eventually, he comes around, especially after the always wonderful Penelope Wilton gives him a brisk talking-to. Tonys final epiphany seems to be that hell only be a jerk to other jerks. Maybe somebody could give Gervais a similar speech. alison.gillmor@freepress.mb.ca If someone had told me when I was growing up that my professional life would involve stuffing my face with free food, I probably would have laughed in disbelief. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 16/3/2019 (1000 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Opinion If someone had told me when I was growing up that my professional life would involve stuffing my face with free food, I probably would have laughed in disbelief. Then, I would have fallen on my knees in gratitude, which is what Ill be doing this morning at The Forks when I once again join a panel of "expert judges" for the Great Manitoba Food Fight. Supplied FrenchWays Ashley Hebel. This will mark (prepare to be impressed) the 11th consecutive year I have been on the judging panel for this early spring food fight, wherein teams of budding food scientists and nutritionists from the University of Manitoba duke it out to see who has created the tastiest and most marketable new food product. I have no idea what happened, because I am writing these words on Thursday morning, but I can tell you what happened Wednesday afternoon, when I had the honour of stuffing my face for free as one of the judges at the Child Nutrition Council of Manitobas seventh annual Stone Soup fundraiser. I dont wish to brag, but at this delicious event in the lobby of Manitoba Hydro Place, I accomplished something that will probably earn me several major journalism awards I powered through 10 bowls of soup in a single sitting. I did not do this alone, fortunately. Joining me on the panel were former NDP MP and MLA Judy Wasylycia-Leis, Winnipeg Goldeyes star outfielder Josh Romanski and my good buddy, the comedian Big Daddy Tazz, who also served as the MC. The original idea was for us each to sample a handful of soups and then compare notes, but Judge Judy quickly shot down that notion, declaring: "No way! I want to eat all 10! Full portions!" So thats what we did. The way it worked was volunteers would waddle over to our table laden down with bowls of soup and baskets of bread, and then we judges would slurp away and make insightful judging remarks. For example, when my pal Tazz noticed that Romanski, the American Associations MVP in 2017, was accompanied by the Goldeyes fuzzy yellow mascot Goldie, he loudly chirped: "If anyone finds a yellow hair in their soup, blame Goldie!" This years fundraising soup scrap featured top-flight chefs from six city restaurants, Red River Colleges culinary program, John G. Stewart School, Aurora Farm and 17 Wing. Judge and Goldeye Josh Romanski When we were not wiping soup stains from our faces and shirts, we judges quizzed each other about our personal relationships with soup, as you can see from this conversation I had with Wasylycia-Leis, whose last name, according to Tazz, is worth 12,000 points in a game of Scrabble. Me: "Judy, what kind of soup do you make?" Judy: "I make a blueberry soup with wild blueberries, and I love to make Zoupa, an Italian soup with the spiciest sausage I can find. That goes in the Crock-Pot with potatoes and chicken stock and, at the end, lots of cream and kale. You have to have lots of kale. What kind of soup do you make, Doug?" Me: "Campbells." Judy: "Sigh." At one point, we were served one called the Soup of Tomorrow, which prompted me to observe: "Hey, look, were having the Soup of Tomorrow TODAY!" Judy snickered and replied: "That sounds like a political slogan. I think I campaigned on that in the last election." Do not get me wrong, however. We judges could not have been more serious about judging all the entries, many of which were served with nifty appetizers, such as teeny-tiny grilled-cheese sandwiches, which definitely should be the next big culinary trend. I could wax poetic about each and every soup, but allow me to mention that all the guy judges on the panel fell in love with the Smoked Brisket Black Bean and Sosken Stout entry from Brazen Hall Kitchen & Brewery on Pembina Highway. It was a spicy, smoky barbecue in a bowl made from a brisket they smoked for 16 hours outside the restaurant and featured their signature house-made stout. "I thought the brisket was phenomenal!" gushed Judge Josh between slurps. "I gave it my first five (top marks). Im a huge meat guy. I love barbecue!" Chimed in Tazz: "I wish Id brought some Tupperware. Next year, were bringing takeout containers." That concoction earned Brazen Halls team of Stefan Kristjansson, front-of-house manager, and chef Ryan Cruz the coveted silver ladle for top judges selection. "Were feeling fantastic," Stefan chirped. "Its not on our menu yet. It was special for this event. We were confident. The definition of brazen is confident and bold." Added Ryan: "We wanted to highlight our barbecue. Its great when you see peoples faces light up when they try your soup. We like to put our winners on the menu." The Peoples Choice Award which earned another ladle and their name engraved on the ceremonial soup pot went to the Turkey Brie with Asparagus Soup from FrenchWay Cafe & Bakery on Lilac Street. "This is wonderful!" chef Ashley Hebel beamed, hoisting the engraved silver ladle. "We try to cook as much as we can from fresh. We cook for the people and when they tell you to your face that your food is good, its a real mood booster." The best thing of all was that the soup battle raised cash and awareness for the nutrition council, which provides funding for breakfast, lunch and snack programs that serve more than 29,000 children and youths in 259 schools throughout Manitoba. Heres a number that should raise your eyebrows: last year alone, the council, founded in 2001, funded an astonishing 4.5 million meals and snacks for kids in Manitoba schools. Try our Dish The latest on food and drink in Winnipeg and beyond from arts writers Ben Sigurdson and Eva Wasney. Dish arrives in your inbox every other Friday. See sample. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Organizer Viola Prowse, past executive director of the nutrition council and current board member, said it is hoping to raise at least $20,000 from the soup throwdown. Every cent is vital, she said, because kids cant focus on education when theyre worried about being hungry. "People dont realize how big the need is," Prowse told me as I wiped a soup stain from my shirt. "We provide only 11 per cent of what schools require to run nutrition programs. Theres still a lot of funds they have to raise. "Every year, the demand increases. Every year, we have more applications. Theres a tremendous need in the north and the remote communities. Its difficult for them to have access to fresh foods." What Im trying to say is put down your spoon, kids, and go to childnutritioncouncil.com right now and click on donate. Then join me in a big bowl of soup, because theres room for all of us in there. doug.speirs@freepress.mb.ca Multi-faith prayers for peace and unity opened the final day of the Islamic Social Services Association's anti-hate conference in Winnipeg Friday, just a few hours after a terror attack on two mosques in New Zealand killed 49 people. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 15/3/2019 (1000 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Multi-faith prayers for peace and unity opened the final day of the Islamic Social Services Association's anti-hate conference in Winnipeg Friday, just a few hours after a terror attack on two mosques in New Zealand killed 49 people. The two-day Striving for Human Dignity event featured local, Canadian and American experts who came together to collaborate on community responses to the rise of hate movements and crimes in Canada. On Friday, prayers were offered to help people in their grieving and to offer hope by standing together, said Shahina Siddiqui, the Islamic association's executive director. MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Shahina Siddiqui Executive director of Islamic Social Services Association; 'Even though the people of New Zealand are so far away, the pain is very close to everybody's heart here.' "In our Muslim faith, like any other faith community, we turn to the Creator. You can't really make sense of it, but at least you can find some solace," said Siddiqui. "Even though the people of New Zealand are so far away, the pain is very close to everybody's heart here." She said she was unable to sleep and spent the nearly hours of Friday tracking media reports of the attacks in Christchurch, a city of 375,000 on the south island of New Zealand. "I just wish that people who are spreading fear about our community, demonizing Islam and dehumanizing Muslims, people (that) think they are like cattle and you can go in and shoot them down in a place of worship, would take a breather," she said. "Today, my community is being targeted. Tomorrow, it could be yours. 49 killed at mosques in 'one of New Zealand's darkest days' Click to Expand CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand - At least 49 people were shot to death at two mosques during midday prayers Friday most if not all of them gunned down by an immigrant-hating white supremacist who apparently used a helmet-mounted camera to broadcast live video of the slaughter on Facebook. Go to full story "Hate is like fire. It catches onto whatever is near it. We have to put a stop to it. We've said so many times: never again, and we just keep doing it." Dr. Omar Reda, a world-leading expert in psychotraumatology who was the Winnipeg conference's keynote speaker Friday, said he would speak of hope and healing. "There are events that are happening that are, unfortunately, becoming more frequent. There is lots of hate and propaganda and fear of refugees and newcomers. I think these difficult conversations will eventually lead to reconciliation," said Reda, a psychiatrist and author from Portland, Ore. He counsels families affected by trauma and has written three books related to the effects of violence and conflict on children. MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Psychotraumatology expert Dr. Omar Reda: 'I'm not going to preach a message of despair. I'm going to focus on the human resilience and what we can do to speed the process of healing.' "I am very hopeful. Today is a dark day for humanity, but I'm not buying into that hate ideology today. I'm not going to preach a message of despair. I'm going to focus on the human resilience and what we can do to speed the process of healing." In the wake of the attacks, security measures were increased at mosques around the world, including Winnipeg. "Friday is the only day when we have congregation prayer, so the mosques are full around the city. I've already emailed the police chief and just spoke to the mayor, who is also making sure places have security," Siddiqui said. 'Just sickening': Canada's immigration minister LORETTE Canadas immigration minister, Ahmed Hussen, said he watched in horror as news broke of the mass shooting at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. It was just sickening to see an individual targeting people practising their religion, he said. click to read more LORETTE Canadas immigration minister, Ahmed Hussen, said he watched in horror as news broke of the mass shooting at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. It was just sickening to see an individual targeting people practising their religion, he said. A manifesto reportedly posted by the 28-year-old suspect is full of anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim statements. On Friday, Hussen was in Lorette to make a federal announcement promoting immigration in Manitobas rural francophone communities. He said societies must be vigilant against people who promote hatred. This reminds us that hatred has consequences, Hussen said. As people propagate this stuff, some of them decide to target people and literally act out violently. Close "Many of these hate groups are also anti-immigrant. When these groups target a mosque or community centre, they are sending a message to the entire community. It is not a random attack. It was planned and what plans are in the making out there?" Albert Boakye of the Social Planning Council of Winnipeg said the anti-immigrant position of many terrorists is unsettling. "It is really sad to have these people believing in ideas that immigration is bad, and it's something I don't stand for," said Boakye, who immigrated to Winnipeg from Ghana as in international student in 2014. "Everyone wants to have a safe place to live, and Canada is like a safe haven for many people." MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Albert Boakye from the Social planning council: 'Everyone wants to have a safe place to live, and Canada is like a safe haven for many people.' Krishna Lalbiharie, one of the conference organizers, said it was a tragic irony to be holding an anti-hate event in one country at the same time an apparent hate crime happens in another corner of the world. "It speaks to the rise of far-right extremism throughout the world. New Zealand now, unfortunately, joins Canada as one of several countries which has been affronted by a devastating and deliberate act of hatred targeted against the Muslim community," he said. On Jan. 29, 2017, Alexandre Bissonnette shot and killed six people, wounding 19 more, in an attack on a Quebec City mosque. "We are devastated, and we join together today in solidarity, and always, with all victims of hate crimes, xenophobia, Islamophobia et cetera. We're very mournful and we're very sorrowful and our prayers go out to the families of the victims in this atrocity and to the people of New Zealand altogether." ashley.prest@freepress.mb.ca Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 15/3/2019 (1000 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Winnipeg Mayor Brian Bowman just raised the stakes in his ongoing battle with Premier Brian Pallister. At odds for months now over a capital funding dispute, Bowman used his annual State of the City luncheon address at the RBC Convention Centre on Friday as an opportunity to throw a bit of a scare into Pallister's caucus of Winnipeg MLAs. Bowman outlined his concern that the province was retroactively changing the terms of capital funding agreements, leaving the city short $40 million for road renewal projects. Following a carefully worded script he has been utilizing for weeks now, the mayor said that while he supported the Pallister government's efforts to eliminate a budget deficit, he reminded the premier not to do that "on the backs" of Winnipeg property taxpayers. And then, Bowman changed his angle of attack, and spoke not to the premier, but his MLAs. Adopting the tone and posture of a diplomat, Bowman pleaded with Winnipeg MLAs to protest cuts to provincial funding. He evoked the image of Oliver Twist, noting that on its own, the city has failed to make any impression on the Pallister government by pleading, cap in hand, for more money. "We need Winnipeg members of the legislative assembly to speak up for Winnipeg and end their silence on the provincial decision to leave Winnipeg residents with a $40-million hole in their roads budget," he said. "For MLAs in the room who are listening today, it's time to put political party interests second, and the people you serve here in Winnipeg first." In his pointed comments, Bowman did not make any distinction between Tory, NDP or Liberal MLAs. However, given that the Tories hold 17 of the 31 provincial ridings in Winnipeg, and that the Liberals and NDP have been been outspoken about cutbacks to municipal grants, it's safe to say that Bowman was directing his comments at the Progressive Conservatives MLAs in the Tory caucus. In the ongoing war between the city and province, Bowman's comments mark a new and important change in context, and a potentially potent reminder that ultimately, voters will have a say about the province's current fiscal policies. WAYNE GLOWACKI / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Premier Brian Pallister, left, and Mayor Brian Bowman at a meeting in the Manitoba Legislative building in 2017. The two Brians have been at odds for months over a capital funding dispute. Last fall, Bowman had to seek re-election while at the same time sparring with Pallister over funding. Now, he's not-so-subtly reminding Tory MLAs from Winnipeg that soon, it will be their turn to face voters and explain the decision to deny the city $40 million in road-repair funds. Pallister will no doubt brush aside Bowman's veiled threat as just the latest in a series of provocations from city hall. After all, the two Brians have been sparring with each other for a couple of years now and despite promises from both men to cease hostilities and take the high road in future discussions and public pronouncements, they just can't seem to help poking each other in the eye when the opportunity arises. In this opportunity, however, Bowman has the advantage of poking at a particularly sensitive area of the Tory psyche. Pallister appears to have a lock on re-election in the next election, whenever it comes. The premier has hinted strongly that he wants to go to the polls before the fall of 2020, the date by which provincial law says a general election must be held. Better funded and organized than either the NDP or Liberals, the Tories would have an extensive advantage going into a snap vote. Unfortunately for a premier with a lack of the ability to delay gratification, the provincial flood forecast has thrown a bit of a wrench into Pallister's plans. There is a strong likelihood that this spring will see significant flooding. Strong enough that Pallister was forced to assure Manitobans that he would not drop the writ of election while the province is facing a potential flood threat. Still, the situation facing city Tory MLAs is much different from that experienced by their rural cousins. Province-wide, the Tories enjoy what appears to be an insurmountable 20-point lead over the next closest party, the NDP. However, in Winnipeg, it's tighter. Much tighter. The Tories still lead in Winnipeg, but by just more than the margin of error in the poll. As well, the Liberals, who trail badly province-wide, are quite competitive inside the Perimeter Highway. All of this means that Bowman's cheeky missive is likely to resonate more with individual Tory MLAs than it does in the premier's office. Collars are getting tight for Winnipeg Tory MLAs, and not just because of reduced infrastructure grants to the city. Dan Lett | Not for Attribution A weekly look at politics close to home and around the world that is sent every Tuesday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. There are ongoing concerns about the controversial reorganization of Winnipeg hospitals that will ultimately see two emergency departments closed. School divisions have had their funding virtually frozen, and the province has cut way back on funding for road and highway repairs. Add to that the fact that Pallister is embroiled in an internal civil war with high-profile party opinion leaders including titans such as Sandford Riley and Polly Craik and you have a laundry list of reasons why Winnipeg Tory MLAs might be losing sleep. It is unclear as of yet whether Bowman will actually wade into a provincial election campaign, whenever that comes, to press his point. However, he and other municipal leaders did make their presence known in the 2016 election with their "Fair Share, Fair Say" campaign on provincial infrastructure funding. It is certainly well within the realm of possibility that Bowman will take his message and, once again, change the angle of attack. He has made comments aimed directly at Pallister. Now, he is attempting to get his message through to the Winnipeg Tory MLAs. All that is left is a direct plea to voters to send the Pallister government a message that it can't seem to grasp on its own. dan.lett@freepress.mb.ca On Friday, another country joined the ranks of those that can no longer say, It cant happen here. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 16/3/2019 (999 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. On Friday, another country joined the ranks of those that can no longer say, "It cant happen here." The tiny island nation of New Zealand was the site of the latest hate-fuelled anti-Islamic mass shooting, in which at least 49 people were murdered and more than 20 others wounded during Friday prayers at two mosques in Christchurch. The attack is believed to have been carried out by an Australian man in his late 20s, who had spent several months in New Zealand planning and preparing for the attack. Police console a man outside a mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand following a deadly rampage that claimed the lives of at least 49 people. (Mark Baker / The Associated Press) In coming to grips with the magnitude of this tragedy, New Zealanders are no doubt also trying to understand how and why it happened on their soil. And just as Canadians did in the aftermath of the January 2017 mass shooting at a Quebec City mosque, they will soon come to an understanding that unhinged violence such as this has nothing to do with national borders. In the era of internet-disseminated venom and social-media-enabled hate, radicalized terrorism is a borderless phenomenon. Shortly before embarking on his murderous mission, the suspected killer posted a 74-page manifesto on the social-media platform 8chan, in which he rails against mass immigration and laments "white genocide," a common trope in white supremacist discussion that refers to the eventual replacement of white European cultures by "invading" ethnic groups meaning immigrants and refugees with higher fertility rates. The documents writer claims to have formed his racist views based on travels abroad and material available on the internet, and also expresses the hope his words and actions will prompt others to form similar views and take similar violent actions. The alleged murderer also live-streamed a 17-minute video of the attack on Facebook; the footage was copied by some who viewed it to other social-media platforms (the corporate owners of those platforms have since taken action to remove the video from circulation). Want more great journalism? Get our best news and features delivered in your inbox every weekday evening. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. A woman places flowers at a make-shift memorial near the mosque in Christchurch where one of the mass shootings occurred. The alleged shooter claims to have formed his racist views based on travels abroad and material available on the internet. (Mark Baker / The Associated Press) While there seems to be little question the man arrested after the shootings will be held accountable for his actions, what remains in the aftermath of this unspeakable tragedy is the larger and constantly looming question of what responsibility is borne by the proprietors of Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, 8chan and other social-media enterprises, for the dissemination of hate and the cultivation of radicalized subcultures that traffic in racism and encourage violence. Whenever they have been pressed to explain the unfiltered distribution of toxic content, the people who became billionaires by inviting the world to join their artificial communities are quick to declare that they are merely providers of platforms, and that they either lack the technical wherewithal or are opposed on ideological grounds to imposing limits on the "free speech" content they display. But before were subjected to another denial that social-media platforms are an incubator for hate and an echo chamber for dangerously misguided rhetoric most often expressed verbally, but occasionally and tragically translated into actions lets consider the words of the accused Christchurch killer himself. Tucked into page 17 of his rambling, self-interrogational manifesto is this: "Q: From where did you receive/research/develop your beliefs? A: The internet, of course. You will not find the truth anywhere else." The inventors of social media designed their creations to transcend national borders, and to elude traditional regulations governing media and information technology. The internet has no borders, but its time for the leaders of nations that do to hold social-media enterprises accountable for their role in the global trafficking of terror. CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand - Anguished relatives were anxiously waiting Sunday for authorities to release the remains of those who were killed in massacres at two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch, while authorities announced the death toll from the racist attacks had risen to 50. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 15/3/2019 (1001 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Police officers prepare to search the area near the Masjid Al Noor mosque, site of one of the mass shootings at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, Saturday, March 16, 2019. (AP Photo/Mark Baker) CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand - Anguished relatives were anxiously waiting Sunday for authorities to release the remains of those who were killed in massacres at two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch, while authorities announced the death toll from the racist attacks had risen to 50. Islamic law calls for bodies to be cleansed and buried as soon as possible after death, usually within 24 hours. But two days after the worst terrorist attack in the country's modern history, relatives remained unsure when they would be able to bury their loved ones. Police Commissioner Mike Bush said police were working with pathologists and coroners to release the bodies as soon as they could. "We have to be absolutely clear on the cause of death and confirm their identity before that can happen," he said. "But we are so aware of the cultural and religious needs. So we are doing that as quickly and as sensitively as possible." Police said they had released a preliminary list of the victims to families, which has helped give closure to some relatives who were waiting for any news. Police attempt to clear people from outside a mosque in central Christchurch, New Zealand, Friday, March 15, 2019. Many people were killed in a mass shooting at a mosque in the New Zealand city of Christchurch on Friday, a witness said. Police have not yet described the scale of the shooting but urged people in central Christchurch to stay indoors.(AP Photo/Mark Baker) The scale of the tragedy and the task still ahead became clear as supporters arrived from across the country to help with the burial rituals in Christchurch and authorities sent in backhoes to dig new graves in a Muslim burial area that was newly fenced off and blocked from view with white netting. The suspect in the shootings, 28-year-old white supremacist Brenton Harrison Tarrant, appeared in court Saturday amid strict security, shackled and wearing all-white prison garb, and showed no emotion when the judge read him one murder charge and said more would likely follow. Bush said at a news conference Sunday that they found another body at Al Noor mosque as they finished removing the victims, bringing the number of people killed there to 42. Another seven people were killed at Linwood mosque and one more person died later at Christchurch Hospital. Armed police patrol outside a mosque in central Christchurch, New Zealand, Friday, March 15, 2019. A witness says many people have been killed in a mass shooting at a mosque in the New Zealand city of Christchurch. (AP Photo/Mark Baker) Another 34 victims remained at Christchurch Hospital, where officials said 12 were in critical condition. And a young child who was in a children's hospital in Auckland was also listed as critical. Dozens of Muslim supporters gathered at a centre set up for victims, families and friends across the road from the hospital, where many had flown in from around New Zealand to offer support. About two dozen men received instructions on their duties Sunday morning, which included Muslim burial customs. Abdul Hakim, 56, of Auckland, was among many who had flown in to help. A handwritten message is placed at a makeshift memorial near the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand, Saturday, March 16, 2019, where one of the two mosque mass shootings at occurred. (AP Photo/Mark Baker) "As soon as people die we must bury them as soon as possible," Hakim said. "We are all here to help them in washing the body, putting them in the grave." Javed Dadabhai, who flew from Auckland after learning about the death of his 35-year-old cousin Junaid Mortara, said the Muslim community was being patient. "The family understands that it's a crime scene. It's going to be a criminal charge against the guy who's done this, so they need to be pretty thorough," he said. A woman who lost her husband during Friday's mass shootings cries outside an information center for families, Saturday, March 16, 2019, in Christchurch, New Zealand. The white supremacist gunman appeared in court Saturday charged with murder in the mosque assaults that killed at least 49 people and led to the prime minister to call for a tightening of national gun laws. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian) Still, it was hard, he said, because the grieving process wouldn't really begin until he could bury his cousin. People across New Zealand were still trying to come to terms with the massacre that Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern described as "one of New Zealand's darkest days." A steady stream of mourners arrived at a makeshift memorial outside the Al Noor mosque, where hundreds of flowers lay piled amid candles, balloons and notes of grief and love. As a light rain fell, people clutched each other and wept quietly. Mourners pay their respects at a makeshift memorial near the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand, Saturday, March 16, 2019, where one of the two mass shootings occurred Friday. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu) Under a nearby tree, someone had left a potted plant adorned with cut out red paper hearts. "We wish we knew your name to write upon your heart. We wish we knew your favourite song, what makes you smile, what makes you cry. We made a heart for you. 50 hearts for 50 lives." Tarrant, the suspect, had posted a jumbled 74-page anti-immigrant manifesto online before the attacks and apparently used a helmet-mounted camera to broadcast live video of the slaughter. The gunman livestreamed 17 minutes of the rampage at the Al Noor mosque, where he sprayed worshippers with bullets. Facebook, Twitter and Google scrambled to take down the video, which was widely available on social media for hours after the bloodbath. The second attack took place at the Linwood mosque about 5 kilometres (3 miles) away. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Ardern said Tarrant was a licensed gun owner who bought the five guns used in the crimes legally. "I can tell you one thing right now, our gun laws will change," Ardern said. She did not offer too much detail, but said a ban on semi-automatic weapons would be looked at. Neighboring Australia has virtually banned semi-automatic rifles from private ownership since a lone gunman killed 35 people with assault rifles in 1996. Before Friday's attack, New Zealand's deadliest shooting in modern history took place in 1990 in the small town of Aramoana, where a gunman killed 13 people following a dispute with a neighbour. ___ Associated Press writers Kristen Gelineau and Stephen Wright in Christchurch, and Rod McGuirk in Canberra, Australia, contributed to this report. NEW YORK - President Donald Trump played down any threat posed by white nationalism after the gunman accused of the New Zealand mosque massacre called the president "a symbol of renewed white identity." Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 16/3/2019 (1000 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office of the White House, Friday, March 15, 2019, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) NEW YORK - President Donald Trump played down any threat posed by white nationalism after the gunman accused of the New Zealand mosque massacre called the president "a symbol of renewed white identity." Trump, whose own previous responses to the movement have drawn scrutiny, expressed sympathy for the victims who died at "places of worship turned into scenes of evil killing." But he declined to join expressions of mounting concern about white nationalism. When asked whether he thought it was a rising threat around the world, he responded, "I don't really." "I think it's a small group of people that have very, very serious problems, I guess," Trump said Friday. "If you look at what happened in New Zealand, perhaps that's the case. I don't know enough about it yet. But it's certainly a terrible thing." Trump was asked about white nationalism and the shooting deaths of 49 people at mosques in Christchurch after he formally vetoed Congress' resolution to block his declaration of a national emergency at the Mexico border. His veto, aimed at freeing money to build more miles of a border wall against illegal immigration, is expected to survive any congressional effort to overturn it. Questioned about the accused gunman's reference to him, Trump professed ignorance. "I didn't see it. I didn't see it," he said. "But I think it's a horrible event ... a horrible, disgraceful thing and a horrible act." The man accused of the shootings left behind a lengthy document outlining his motivations. He proudly stated that he was a 28-year-old Australian white nationalist who hates immigrants and was set off by attacks in Europe that were perpetrated by Muslims. He mentioned the U.S. president in a single reference. "Were/are you a supporter of Donald Trump?" was one of the questions he posed to himself. His answer: "As a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose? Sure. As a policy maker and leader? Dear god no." The White House immediately denounced the connection. But the mention from the suspect, who embraced Nazi imagery and voiced support for fascism, nonetheless cast an uncomfortable light on the way the president has been embraced by some on the far right. Trump, who as a candidate proposed a ban on all Muslims entering the United States, has drawn criticism as being slow to condemn white supremacy and related violence. After a 2017 clash between white nationalists and anti-racist protesters in Charlottesville, Virginia, that left one demonstrator dead, Trump said there were "very fine people on both sides" of the confrontation. He also did not immediately reject the support of David Duke, a former KKK Grand Wizard, during his presidential campaign. Some of the Democrats who are campaigning for the right to challenge Trump in 2020 criticized his response to the New Zealand attack. Sen. Amy Klobuchar told Iowa voters Saturday that "it's our job to stand up against" white supremacism. Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, who is also seeking the Democratic presidential nomination, accused Trump of taking "rank with those who want to spread fear and division across the world." Former Texas Rep. Beto O'Rourke, who entered the Democratic race this week, said, "We must call out this hatred, this Islamophobia, this intolerance, and the violence that predictably follows from the rhetoric that we use." The White House rejected any link to Trump. "It's outrageous to even make that connection between this deranged individual that committed this evil crime to the president who has repeatedly condemned bigotry, racism and made it very clear that this is a terrorist attack," Mercedes Schlapp, the White House's director of strategic communication, told reporters on Friday. "We are there to support and stand with the people of New Zealand." Trump telephoned New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, offering condolences, prayers and any help the U.S. might be able to provide. She told reporters she answered, "My message was: to offer sympathy and love to all Muslim communities." Trump's hardline immigration rhetoric and calls to return America to its traditional past have been embraced by many on the conservative fringes, including some who troll online with racist imagery, as well as white supremacists who have looked to engage in violence. In Florida, Cesar Sayoc, who had decorated his van with Trump propaganda, was accused of mailing explosives last fall to Democratic Party officials and media members, many of whom had been criticized by the president. The president said Sayoc had been "insane" long before he became a Trump fan. Last month, a former Coast Guard official was accused of stockpiling weapons in a plot to kill media figures and liberal politicians as part of a plan to transform the U.S. into a white ethno-state. It took more than a week for Trump to respond to the plot, which he deemed "a shame." Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Many experts who track violent extremists have identified white nationalism as a growing threat in the U.S. and abroad. In January, for example, the New York-based Anti-Defamation League said domestic extremists killed at least 50 people in the U.S. in 2018, up from 37 in 2017, and said, "White supremacists were responsible for the great majority of the killings, which is typically the case." Some critics have accused U.S. authorities of not dedicating adequate resources to stem a threat of domestic terrorism. However, The Washington Post reported last week that internal FBI data showed more domestic terror suspects were arrested last year than those allegedly inspired by international terror groups. ___ Associated Press writers Jill Colvin and Michael Kunzelman in Washington and Alexandra Jaffe in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, contributed to this report. ___ Follow Lemire on Twitter at http://twitter.com/@JonLemire The following companies are subsidiares of Abbott Laboratories: 3A Nutrition (Vietnam) Company Limited, ABON Biopharm (Hangzhou) Co. 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DE C.V., ATC IP LLC, ATC India Infrastructure Private Limited, ATC Indoor DAS Holding LLC, ATC Indoor DAS LLC, ATC International Cooperatief U.A., ATC International Financing B.V., ATC International Financing II B.V., ATC International Financing II Holding LLC, ATC International Holding Corp., ATC Iris I LLC, ATC Kenya Operations Limited, ATC Kenya Services Limited, ATC Latin America S.A. de C.V. SOFOM E.N.R., ATC MIP III REIT Iron Holdings LLC, ATC Managed Sites Holding LLC, ATC Managed Sites LLC, ATC MexHold LLC, ATC Mexico Holding LLC, ATC Niger Wireless Infrastructure S.A., ATC Nigeria C.V., ATC Nigeria Cooperatief U.A., ATC Nigeria Holding LLC, ATC Nigeria Wireless Infrastructure Limited, ATC On Air + LLC, ATC Operations LLC, ATC Outdoor DAS LLC, ATC Paraguay Holding LLC, ATC Paraguay S.R.L., ATC Peru Holding LLC, ATC Polska sp. z o.o., ATC Ponderosa B-I LLC, ATC Ponderosa B-II LLC, ATC Ponderosa K LLC, ATC Ponderosa K-R LLC, ATC Sequoia LLC, ATC Sitios Infraco S.A.S., ATC Sitios de Chile S.A., ATC Sitios de Colombia S.A.S., ATC Sitios del Peru S.R.L., ATC South Africa Investment Holdings (Proprietary) Limited, ATC South Africa Services Pty Ltd, ATC South Africa Wireless Infrastructure (Pty) Ltd, ATC South Africa Wireless Infrastructure II (Pty) Ltd, ATC South America Holding LLC, ATC South LLC, ATC Spain LLC, ATC TRS I LLC, ATC TRS II LLC, ATC TRS III LLC, ATC TRS IV LLC, ATC Tanzania Holding LLC, ATC Telecom Infrastructure Private Limited, ATC Tower (Ghana) Limited, ATC Tower Services LLC, ATC Uganda Limited, ATC Uganda ServiceCo (SMC) Limited, ATC Watertown LLC, ATC WiFi LLC, ATS-Needham LLC, ActiveX Telebroadband Services Private Limited, Adquisiciones y Proyectos Inalambricos S. de R. L. de C.V., Agile Airband Ohio LLC, Agile Connect LLC, Agile IWG Holdings LLC, Agile Network Builders LLC, Agile Networks Indiana LLC, Agile Networks Site Development LLC, Agile Towers LLC, Alternative Networking LLC, American Tower Asset Sub II LLC, American Tower Asset Sub LLC, American Tower Charitable Foundation Inc., American Tower Delaware Corporation, American Tower Depositor Sub LLC, American Tower Guarantor Sub LLC, American Tower Holding Sub II LLC, American Tower Holding Sub LLC, American Tower International Holding I LLC, American Tower International Holding II LLC, American Tower International Inc., American Tower Investments LLC, American Tower LLC, American Tower Management LLC, American Tower Mauritius, American Tower Servicios Fibra S. de R.L. de C.V., American Tower Tanzania Operations Limited, American Tower do Brasil - Cessao de Infraestruturas Ltda., American Tower do Brasil Communicacao Multimidia Ltda., American Towers LLC, BR Towers, Blue Sky Towers Pty Ltd, Blue Transfer Sociedad Anonima, Broadcast Towers LLC, CNC2 Associates LLC, California Tower Inc., Cell Site NewCo II LLC, Cell Tower Lease Acquisition LLC, Central States Tower Holdings LLC, Colo ATL LLC, Colo Atl, Communications Properties Inc., Comunicaciones y Consumos S.A., Connectivity Infrastructure Services Limited, DCS Tower Sub LLC, Eaton, Eaton Towers (Lilongwe) Limited, Eaton Towers Ghana (M) Limited, Eaton Towers Ghana Limited, Eaton Towers Holdings Limited, Eaton Towers Kenya Limited, Eaton Towers Limited, Eaton Towers Niger S.A., Eaton Towers Uganda Limited, Essar Telecom Infrastructure, Eure-et-Loir Reseaux Mobiles SAS, GTP Acquisition Partners I LLC, GTP Acquisition Partners II LLC, GTP Acquisition Partners III LLC, GTP Costa Rica Finance LLC, GTP Infrastructure I LLC, GTP Infrastructure II LLC, GTP Infrastructure III LLC, GTP Investments LLC, GTP LATAM Holdings B.V., GTP LatAm Holdings Cooperatieve U.A., GTP Operations CR S.R.L., GTP South Acquisitions II LLC, GTP Structures I LLC, GTP Structures II LLC, GTP TRS I LLC, GTP Torres CR S.R.L., GTP Towers I LLC, GTP Towers II LLC, GTP Towers III LLC, GTP Towers IV LLC, GTP Towers IX LLC, GTP Towers V LLC, GTP Towers VII LLC, GTP Towers VIII LLC, GTPI HoldCo LLC, Ghana Tower InterCo B.V., Global Tower Assets III LLC, Global Tower Assets LLC, Global Tower Holdings LLC, Global Tower LLC, Global Tower Partners, Global Tower Services LLC, Gondola Tower Holdings LLC, Grain HoldCo LLC, Grain HoldCo Parent LLC, GrainComm I LLC, GrainComm II LLC, GrainComm III LLC, GrainComm LLC, GrainComm Marketing LLC, GrainComm V LLC, Haysville Towers LLC, IW Equipment LLC, IWD Equipment LLC, IWG Holdings LLC, IWG II Holdings LLC, IWG II LLC, IWG Miami LLC, IWG Towers Assets I LLC, IWG Towers Assets II LLC, IWG-TLA Australia Pty Ltd., IWG-TLA Canada Corp., IWG-TLA Encanto 1 LLC, IWG-TLA Encanto 2 LLC, IWG-TLA Encanto 3 LLC, IWG-TLA Encanto LLC, IWG-TLA Holdings LLC, IWG-TLA Media 2 LLC, IWG-TLA Media LLC, IWG-TLA Telecom LLC, IWL-TLA Telecom 2 LLC, Idaho Tower Company LLC, InSite (BCEC) LLC, InSite (MBTA) LLC, InSite Borrower LLC, InSite Co-Issuer Corp., InSite Guarantor LLC, InSite Hawaii LLC, InSite Issuer LLC, InSite Licensing LLC, InSite Towers Development 2 LLC, InSite Towers Development LLC, InSite Towers International 2 LLC, InSite Towers International Development LLC, InSite Towers International LLC, InSite Towers LLC, InSite Towers of Puerto Rico LLC, InSite Wireless Development LLC, InSite Wireless Group, InSite Wireless Group LLC, Insite Wireless LLC, Invisible IWG Holdings LLC, Invisible Towers LLC, JT Communications LLC, LAP Inmobiliaria Limitada, LAP Inmobiliaria S.R.L., LL B Sheet 1 LLC, Lap do Brasil Empreendimentos Imobiliarios Ltda, Lease Advisors-AU PTY LTD, Loxel SAS, MATC Digital S. de R.L. de C.V., MATC Infraestructura S. de R.L. de C.V., MATC Servicios S. de R.L. de C.V., MC New Macland Properties LLC, MCSU Properties LLC, MHB Tower Rentals of America LLC, MIP III Iron Holdings LLC, MIP III U.S. Iron LLC, Microwave Inc., Municipal Bay LLC, Municipal-Bay Holdings LLC, New Towers LLC, PCS Structures Towers LLC, R-CAL I LLC, RSA Media Inc., Repeater Communications Group I LLC, Repeater Communications Group II LLC, Repeater Communications Group III LLC, Repeater Communications Group IV LLC, Repeater Communications Group LLC, Repeater Communications Group V LLC, Repeater Communications Group VI LLC, Repeater Communications Group of New York LLC, Repeater IWG Holdings LLC, Richland Towers LLC, Signum/IWG Tower Corp., Southeast Network Access Point LLC, SpectraSite Communications, SpectraSite Communications LLC, SpectraSite LLC, T8 Ulysses Site Management LLC, TLA PR-1 LLC, TLA PR-2 LLC, Telecom Lease Advisors Management 2 LLC, Tower Management Inc., Towers of America L.L.L.P., Transcend Infrastructure Holdings Pte. Ltd., Transcend Towers Infrastructure (Philippines) Inc., Turris Sites Development Corp., Turris Sites IWG Corp, Tysons II DAS LLC, UNIsite, Uganda Tower Interco B.V., Ulysses Asset Sub I LLC, Ulysses Asset Sub II LLC, UniSite LLC, UniSite/Omnipoint FL Tower Venture LLC, UniSite/Omnipoint NE Tower Venture LLC, UniSite/Omnipoint PA Tower Venture LLC, Vangard Wireless LLC, Verus Management One LLC, Viom Networks, and Virdi IWG Holdings LLC. BHP Group engages in the natural resources business in Australia, Europe, China, Japan, India, South Korea, rest of Asia, North America, South America, and internationally. It operates through Petroleum, Copper, Iron Ore, and Coal segments. The company engages in the exploration, development, and production of oil and gas properties; and mining of copper, silver, zinc, molybdenum, uranium, gold, iron ore, and metallurgical and energy coal. It is also involved in mining, smelting, and refining of nickel; the provision of towing, freight, marketing and trading, marketing support, finance, administrative, and other services; and potash development activities. The company was founded in 1851 and is headquartered in Melbourne, Australia. Read More Imperial Brands PLC, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, imports, markets, and sells tobacco and tobacco-related products. It offers a range of cigarettes, fine cut and smokeless tobacco, papers, and cigars; and next generation product (NGP) portfolio, such as e-vapour products, as well as oral nicotine and heated tobacco products. The company sells its products under various brands, including Davidoff, Gauloises, JPS, West, L&B, Bastos, Fine, Winston, News, Parker & Simpson, blu, Kool, Horizon, Jade, Cohiba, Montecristo, Romeo Y Julieta, Backwoods, Skruf, Golden Virginia, Rizla, and Knox in approximately 160 countries worldwide. It also provides logistics services that include the distribution of tobacco and NGP products for tobacco and NGP product manufacturers; and various non-tobacco and NGP products and services. In addition, the company is involved in the management of a golf course; marketing of papers; restaurant business; distribution of pharmaceuticals, POS software, and published materials and other products; printing and publishing activities; and provision of long haul transportation, industrial parcel and express delivery, advertising, and support management services. Further, it owns the trademarks; and retails its products. The company was formerly known as Imperial Tobacco Group PLC and changed its name to Imperial Brands PLC in February 2016. Imperial Brands PLC was founded in 1901 and is headquartered in Bristol, the United Kingdom. Read More 2 Wall Street equities research analysts have issued "buy," "hold," and "sell" ratings for Sappi in the last year. There are currently 1 sell rating and 1 buy rating for the stock. The consensus among Wall Street equities research analysts is that investors should "hold" Sappi stock. A hold rating indicates that analysts believe investors should maintain any existing positions they have in SPPJY, but not buy additional shares or sell existing shares. View analyst ratings for Sappi or view top-rated stocks. Close Brothers Group plc, a merchant banking company, provides financial services to small businesses and individuals in the United Kingdom. It operates through five segments: Commercial, Retail, Property, Asset Management, and Securities. The company offers various deposit products, including fixed term deposits and notice accounts. It also provides asset finance, asset-based lending, commercial vehicle hire, short-term bridging finance, insurance premium finance, invoice discounting and factoring, and property finance products. In addition, the company offers funding services for general aviation aircraft, and various leisure and commercial vessels; sale and rent back services for the brewing sector; broker finance services to agriculture, construction, manufacturing, and transport industries; leasing services for construction, manufacturing, IT equipment, and specialist assets; and loan, hire purchase, leasing, and refinancing services to the professional service sector, including dental, medical, pharmacy, and veterinary sectors. Further, it provides financial education, investment management, and financial planning and advice services; self-directed services that help investors to manage their portfolio online; and services for financial advisers. Additionally, the company offers liquidity and flexible execution services to retail stockbrokers, wealth managers, and institutional investors; market making, sales, research, and corporate broking services; and dealing, custody, and settlement services to the institutional, wealth management, and brokerage clients. Close Brothers Group plc was founded in 1878 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom. Read More President Donald Trump issued the first veto of his presidency, overruling Congress to protect his emergency declaration for border wall funding. Trump said the resolution, which would have reversed the national emergency, "put countless Americans in danger." "There haven't been too many that are bigger emergency than what we have" at our border, he said. Though it is very unlikely that Congress will have the two-thirds majority required to override Trump's veto, through House Democrats have suggested they would try nonetheless. Last day, a dozen Republican senators broke party ranks and sided with Democrats to terminate the US President's declaration of a national emergency on America's border with Mexico. Following the vote, President Trump tweeted, VETO! VETO! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 14, 2019 iShares Micro-Cap ETF's stock was trading at $74.73 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 (Coronavirus) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, IWC stock has increased by 85.9% and is now trading at $138.96. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. Total Energy Services Inc. provides various products and services to the oil and natural gas industry primarily in Canada, the United States, and Australia. It operates through four segments: Contract Drilling Services, Rentals and Transportation Services, Compression and Process Services and Well Servicing. The Contract Drilling Services segment offers contract drilling services to oil and gas exploration and development companies. As of December 31, 2020, it operated a total fleet of 98 drilling rigs. The Rentals and Transportation Services segment provides drilling, completion and production rental equipment, and oilfield transportation services in western Canada and in the United States. This segment owned and operated a fleet of 87 heavy trucks. The Compression and Process Services segment offers gas compression services; and designs and packages skid style compressors and proprietary trailer-mounted compressors under the NOMAD brand in Canada and the United States, the European Union, Australia, and Mexico. It had 54,800 horsepower of compression in its rental fleet. The Well Servicing segment offers well services. This segment operated a total fleet of 83 well servicing rigs across Western Canada, mid-western United States, and Australia. It has a strategic alliance with Pason Systems Inc. to develop and deploy drilling automation and optimization technologies. The company was founded in 1996 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada. Read More The McClatchy Company publishes newspapers and news Websites in the United States. Its publications include the Miami Herald, The Kansas City Star, The Sacramento Bee, The Charlotte Observer, The (Raleigh) News and Observer, and The (Fort Worth) Star-Telegram. It also provides niche publications and community newspapers, as well as other print and digital direct marketing services. The company distributes content, including video products, through its owned and operated Websites and mobile applications, third-party search and ad exchanges, social media platforms, and electronic editions of its daily newspapers, as well as its printed daily newspapers. The McClatchy Company was founded in 1857 and is headquartered in Sacramento, California. Read More Turkeys Erdogan is busy attacking former allies. But will rhetoric alone save him at the polls Once again, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan dug into his rhetorical quiver, pulled out the word traitor, and fired it, not at adversaries this time but at former companions with whom he had parted ways. In a recent campaign rally in Tokat, he lashed out against fellow founders and members of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) whom he had cast aside, one after the other, in the course of his quest for autocratic power. Some of our friends were very content when we first set out on this road together and were given certain positions. But, sadly, when the time came for us to ask them to take a rest and let others take their place, they suddenly decided to get off our train and board another. That is not commitment to the unity of fate. That is not commitment to the unity of the cause. Those who betray us today will betray others tomorrow. He proceeded to call on voters to support him in order to foil the conspiracies of those traitors and others who were plotting to undermine the Turkish economy. Of course, he left the names unmentioned, not for fear of retaliation and or even a lawsuit. But, despite his long and ever-growing list of enemies, everyone knew who he was talking about: fellow AKP founder and former president Abdullah Gul, former AKP leader and former prime minister Ahmet Davutoglu and former AKP deputy-chief Selcuk Ozdag. Ironically, a couple of decades ago Gul and Erdogan had broken away from the Refah (Welfare) Party in order to form their own party because of their opposition to the despotic control of its leader, Necmettin Erbakan, the father of Islamism in Turkey. History appears to be repeating itself. The eminent Haberturk columnist Fatih Altayli reports that Davutoglu is in the process of founding a new party and that it has already established bases in 40 provinces. The party will feature prominent names and, in a few weeks, Davutoglu will officially submit its application for registration to the Interior Ministry, after which the new party will get down to work. Altayli mentioned that former president Abdullah Gul and former deputy prime minister Ali Babacan are also involved in a process of forming a new party, but that they are waiting for the outcome of the upcoming municipal elections before they announce it. If the AKP performs poorly, they will launch the party amid expectations that it will win over quite a few AKP parliamentary deputies. However, according to Altayli, Davutoglu might try to pre-empt them and launch his new party in the hopes that Gul and Babacan will join him instead of forming one of their own. Although the party is still in the process of formation its name has not even been revealed yet it would pose formidable competition to the AKP with which it would vie in the same conservative base. The new party would also boast leaders that command respect both at home and abroad and who are very familiar with how Erdogan operates, after having worked with him for years. Erdogan may pretend otherwise, but he has every cause to be worried, with this coming on top of his partys declining performance in public opinion polls. So, it is little wonder that he has increased his campaign tours, turned up the volume of his polarising rhetoric and doubled down on economic pledges he knows he could never keep, even if he wanted to. At the same time, to compensate for his disappointment in former friends and allies who have betrayed his thirst for power, he turned to the ultra-nationalists for solace and votes. But that corner, too, is proving worrisome. Recent surveys covering the major towns and cities in the country show that the Cumhur Ittifaki (The Peoples Alliance) between the AKP and the ultranationalist Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) is losing popularity. In part this is due to the nature of municipal elections which are different from parliamentary and presidential elections. Firstly, they are traditionally a time for voters to express their discontent, which is mounting against the backdrop of the countrys economic straits, and secondly, as political analyst and journalist Fehmi Koru observed, new electoral alliances are causing quite a bit of confusion among voters who are wondering whether to vote for an alliance candidate who is not from their own party. Koru predicts that, in the end, party affiliation/loyalty will prevail. AKP campaign strategists might try to come up with appeals to fellow allies, but in the end they will not succeed in attracting many votes from outside the party base. * A version of this article appears in print in the 14 March, 2019 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly under the headline: No room for naysayers Search Keywords: Short link: UKIP Brexit Facebook Groups Reveling in the New Zealand Terror Attacks Blaming Muslim Victims It's not just far right Austrailian Senators who are busy blaming the victims of Friday's New Zealand terror attack and then seen punching teens in the face. But UKIPers have been busy showing their true colours, where clearly once the party stood for LEAVING the EU, now in most part stands for HATING ALL THINGS MUSLIMS. Even sinking as low as to blame the victims for migrating as some of the excerpts below illustrate : Here UKIPers are defending the actions of the white supremacist mass murderer. Abusing Jeremy Corbyn for condeming the terrorist attack. At the end of the day the UKIP of 2016 is DEAD, effectively replaced by BNP 2.0 in that it would now be near impossible for LEAVE to win a Second EU Referendum which appears to be the most probable outcome out of Britain's ongoing BrExit chaos. And given UKIP's embrace of Tommy Robinson then I would not be surprised if he becomes UKIP's next leader or at the least represents UKIP as a prospective parliamentary candidate at the next general election, though I am sure people cannot stand for parliament under a fake name. Meanwhile UKIPS new Tommy Robinson (fake name) has been busy trying to capialise on the New Zealand massacre by encorporating Replacement theory Idelology into his latest youtube video. By John York http://www.marketoracle.co.uk Copyright 2005-2019 Marketoracle.co.uk (Market Oracle Ltd). All rights reserved. 2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication. UTICA, N.Y. - Indivisible Mohawk Valley and Central New York Citizen Action held a rally at the State Office Building for education funding and campaign finance reform. The activists and speakers highlighted two state budget issues. Those issues were the influence of big money in elections and the adequate funding of public schools. In the state budget proposal, there is a plan to fully fund foundation aid for public schools. The state developed foundation aid which is a formula used to determine how much funding schools should receive. "According to the foundation aid formula, Utica public schools are owed $47 million by the state," Kristina Andreotta, an organizer said. "That's an enormous amount of money that our children need." Andreotta says her son is only three years old, but this is important to her because he will be attending Utica public schools in the future. "I want to make sure that he has every opportunity possible and honestly we need resources to make that happen," Andreotta said. Cam Tien, who was another organizer for the rally, says education funding is important to him because he has two school aged children and he teaches in the Rome City School District. "The only way for anyone to move on, to progress, to get better opportunities is to get a good education," Tien said. "Without adequate funding for education, I don't think that's going to happen and that's going to put a lot of kids in a disadvantage." Tien is also a council member in Rome for the 1st ward, and he says campaign finance reform is important too. Another proposal in the Assembly and Senate budgets is for a small donor matching fund, which organizers say would even the playing field for candidates that don't come from a wealthy background. Keith Rubino, an organizer who ran for the 118th Assembly seat last year, says he believes this legislation would have helped him in the election. "Public financing rules would be matching contributions," Rubino said. "For any small contribution under $175, you would see a matching contribution 5, 6 fold, so this would allow people to have more of a voice and feel like they have more power. Give power back to the people." SALAMANCA, N.Y. (AP) - A long-missing peace pipe tomahawk President George Washington gave to a Seneca leader in the late 18th century has been returned to the tribe in western New York. Washington gave the combination tobacco-smoking pipe and weapon to Cornplanter as the United States negotiated a peace treaty with the Six Nations of the Iroquois Confederacy. The artifact eventually wound up at the State Museum in Albany, where it remained until being stolen in the late 1940s. Last year, an anonymous collector returned the artifact to the museum. Officials there decided to loan it to the Senecas. Cornplanter's pipe tomahawk was presented Thursday to the Seneca Nation of Indians, who have put the artifact on display in the Seneca-Iroquois National Museum in Salamanca, near the Pennsylvania border 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of Buffalo. (Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.) Is The Brexit Debacle Going To Crash The Stock Market ... Again? We are often directed to think that the market reacts in the same manner as Newtonian physics. We believe that a news event which accompanies a market move was certainly the cause of that market move. But, how often have we seen markets react in the exact opposite manner in which the substance of the news event suggests? While science has moved away from Newtonian physics, stock market analysts have not. Wednesday, we saw a perfect example of this conundrum. For most of the day on Wednesday, the media was warning us about the disastrous effects that a failed Brexit vote would have on markets around the world. We were told all day about how devastating the impact of a failed vote would be on financial systems that need stability. And, when the vote failed, market participants around the world held their collective breaths and braced for the worst. Yet, the market has rallied 30 points (as of my writing this update) after this supposedly devastating occurrence the prior day. How is this possible? In August 1998, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution published an article by Tom Walker, who conducted his own study of 42 years worth of surprise news events and the stock markets corresponding reactions. His conclusion, which will be surprising to most, was that it was exceptionally difficult to identify a connection between market trading and dramatic surprise news. Based upon Walker's study and conclusions, even if you had the news beforehand, you would still not be able to determine the direction of the market only based upon such news. Until the times of R.N. Elliott, the world applied the Newtonian laws of physics as the analysis tool for the stock markets. Basically, these laws provide that movement in the universe is caused by outside forces. Newton formulated these laws of external causality into his three laws of motion: 1 a body at rest remains at rest unless acted upon by an external force; 2 a body in motion remains in motion in a straight line unless acted upon by an external force; and 3 for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. However, as Einstein stated: During the second half of the nineteenth century new and revolutionary ideas were introduced into physics; they opened the way to a new philosophical view, differing from the mechanical one. Yet, even though physics has moved away from the Newtonian viewpoint, financial market analysis has not. R.N. Elliott presented this perspective quite well back in 1946: Many services and financial commentators in newspapers persist in discussing current events as causes of advances and declines. They have available the daily news and market behavior. It is therefore a simple matter to fit one to the other. When news is absent and the market fluctuates, they say its behavior is technical. Every now and then, some important event occurs. If London declines and New York advances, or vice versa, the commentators are befuddled. Mr. Bernard Baruch recently said that prosperity will be with us for several years regardless of what is done or not done. Think that over. In the dark ages, the world was supposed to be flat. We persist in perpetuating similar delusions. - R. N. Elliott, Natures Law, 1946 Now, most of you will likely shrug this off and simply move on to the next event which is supposedly going to move the market. And, when you see an event which triggers a market move that is in line with the substance of the news event, all will return to normal in your prior world perspective. But, maintaining such blinders will potentially hurt your account at the absolute worst times. Just something for you to consider. As an aside, I want to let you know that we have opened a new site FATRADER.com -- dedicated to fundamental analysis. To this end, we have brought together some of the best minds in their areas of expertise in economics, commodities, biotech, and energy/sustainable investing, and will be soon bringing on analysts for gold mining stocks, real estate, technology, shipping, and dividend/high yield to provide analysis for our members. In our first week we sold out all our 750 discounted charter memberships. Those who sign up today can still save $30/month off our regular $79.95 rate if continuing beyond your free 15-day trial! As one member recently posted: "This site is like the 'newspaper' that I never had (or never existed)....For the first time in my life I feel that a service is tailored 100% for me." Avi Gilburt has launched a new site called FATRADER.com, a live forum hosted by a team of top fundamental analysts aiming to showcase research and elevate discussion in areas of the market like biotech, commodities, and sustainable investing where fundamental and macro analysis is critical. 2019 Copyright Avi Gilburt - All Rights Reserved Disclaimer: The above is a matter of opinion provided for general information purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. Information and analysis above are derived from sources and utilising methods believed to be reliable, but we cannot accept responsibility for any losses you may incur as a result of this analysis. Individuals should consult with their personal financial advisors. 2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication. Tommy Robinson Looks Set to Become New UKIP Leader The final act in UKIP's drift into the arms of the far right will be when the extremist Tommy Robinson takes the helms of what's left of a party that once stood for Britain LEAVING the European Union, but now is focused virtually wholly on its hatred of Muslims, that even in the wake of the New Zealand massacre chose to join the the right wing chorus from an extremist Senator in Australia downwards seeking to blame the victims for migrating to New Zealand rather than those who perpetuated the act of terror. The so called Australian senator (hint Australia is not in Europe) was seen punching a teenager who took issue with his right wing message of hatred. Where UKIP is concerned, the transformation towards becoming BNP 2.0 is near completion, the only thing needed is another change in leadership, likely anointing Tommy Robinson who subscribes to many of the same ideals as the terrorist behind the acts of violence in New Zealand. Meanwhile many UKIPers instead of offering condolences to the families of the bereaved were busy defending the actions of the white supremacist mass murderer. Especially abusing Jeremy Corbyn for condemning the terrorist attack. At the end of the day the UKIP of 2016 is DEAD, effectively replaced by BNP 2.0. Which means that it would now be near impossible for LEAVE to win a Second EU Referendum which appears to be the most probable trend trajectory of Britain's ongoing BrExit chaos. All whilst UKIPS soon be announced new leader Tommy Robinson (fake name) has been busy trying to capitalise on the New Zealand massacre by incorporating Replacement theory into his right wing extremist Idelology as per his latest youtube video. By John York http://www.marketoracle.co.uk Copyright 2005-2019 Marketoracle.co.uk (Market Oracle Ltd). All rights reserved. 2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication. Tens of thousands of Australian high school students participated in strikes yesterday, demanding immediate action to address climate change and environmental destruction. The rallies were part of a series of protests around the world, including across Europe and in the United States. The demonstrations were the largest in Australia involving high school students since at least 2003, when there were mass protests against the illegal US-led invasion of Iraq. An estimated 30,000 participated in Sydney, with similar numbers in Melbourne. Around 10,000 protested in Brisbane, the state capital of Queensland, while thousands rallied in Perth, Adelaide and Hobart. In Newcastle, a working class regional city north of Sydney, at least 2,000 demonstrated. Dozens of smaller protests were held in country towns and regional centres across the country. Part of the Sydney rally The size of the rallies makes clear that young people, who have grown up amid endless war, soaring inequality and an assault on the working class, are being propelled into political struggle. They are animated, not only by concern over the destruction of the environment, but also the dominance of the banks and corporations over every aspect of social and political life, the rise of militarism and the turn to authoritarianism by governments around the world. In the lead up to the strike, senior politicians and the corporate press, expressed the fear and hostility of the political establishment at the emergence of a movement among young people. Members of the federal Liberal-National Coalition government denounced the students as truants, while the Murdoch media ran a stream of articles, claiming that the protests were the result of left-wing indoctrination in high schools. Teachers who publicly supported the rallies were threatened with punitive measures. Bill Shorten, the federal Labor leader, also condemned the protests, demanding that students demonstrate outside of school hours. His comments underscored the fact that Labor and the trade unions are no less hostile to independent political action by young people and workers than their Liberal-National counterparts. Other politicians, however, including NSW Labor leader Michael Daley and leading Greens representatives declared their support for the rallies. This was one expression of a coordinated attempt by Labor, the Greens, the unions and middle-class environmental groups to subordinate the movement of high school students to the very parties that are responsible for environmental degradation. These efforts were on display at the rally in Sydney, which was tightly controlled by the Australian Youth Climate Coalition (AYCC), a non-government organisation with close ties to Labor, the Greens and the union bureaucracy. The AYCC was established ten years ago. It is closely linked to GetUp!, an organisation that operates as a campaign lobby group for Labor and the Greens. GetUp! was founded prior to the 2007 federal election to channel mass hostility to the federal Coalition government of John Howard behind the election of a big business Labor government. Like GetUp!, the AYCC has substantial financial resources and a full-time staff of at least 68 people. High school students who addressed the Sydney rally condemned the continuing use of coal, including the establishment of the Carmichael mine in central Queensland by multinational corporation Adani. They denounced the close ties between the major parties and the coal industry. Some denounced Labor MPs for refusing to commit to ending the expansion of coal mining and to action to stem climate change. Others spoke powerfully on the devastating impact of climate change on the Pacific Islands, and on the dire plight of Aboriginal communities, partly resulting from environmental degradation and a lack of clean water sources. Reflecting the influence of the AYCC, however, the student speakers called on young people to pressure the official political parties, including by calling and texting Bill Shortens office. The official line of the rally, and of the AYCC, was most graphically demonstrated by the decision to introduce Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore as the keynote speaker. Moore has been mayor since 2004. She was previously an independent member of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly from 1988 to 2012. Moore is part of the political establishment, with the closest of ties to Labor, the Greens and the unions. She has built a base of support among privileged layers of the upper middle-class on the basis of identity politicsrace, gender and sexual orientationand by posturing as a defender of the environment. A section of the Melbourne protest Moores speech centred on calls for the ouster of the Liberal-Nationals in the upcoming New South Wales and federal elections. She noted that most of the students present were not old enough to vote, but pathetically called upon them to appeal to relatives to cast a ballot against the Coalition. Moore touted a recent court ruling, blocking the establishment of a new mine, and absurdly claimed that limited reductions in carbon emissions by Sydney City Council pointed the way forward in the fight against climate change. Moores implicit claim that Greens-backed Labor governments would resolve the environmental crisis are an utter fraud. Labor and the Greens are as responsible for the failure to address climate change as the Liberal-National Coalition. The Greens-backed federal Labor government of Julia Gillard did nothing to stem carbon emissions, when it was in office from 20102013. Under its signature carbon tax policy, Australias carbon emissions actually increased. According to Labors own 2012 modelling, if the tax had remained in place from 2012 to 2020, annual national carbon emissions would have grown from 582 to 621 million tonnes by 2020. Emissions trading schemes, promoted by the Greens, are just as worthless. Where they have been introduced in Europe and elsewhere, they have succeeded only in establishing lucrative opportunities for green businesses and creating new markets for financial swindlers and speculators to exploit. Moreover, a federal Labor government would deepen Australias alignment with the US drive to war, including against nuclear-armed China, while implementing austerity measures aimed at making the working class pay for the deepening economic crisis. A Labor government would also continue Australias role in the persecution of WikiLeaks publisher Julian Assange for exposing US-led war crimes, mass surveillance and diplomatic intrigues, and would expand moves towards a police state. The sharpest expression of the AYCCs role in seeking to suppress any discussion of the broader issues confronting young people and an alternative perspective, was its attempts to censor the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE), the youth wing of the Socialist Equality Party, at the Sydney and Melbourne rallies. The Newcastle demonstration At both demonstrations, AYCC operatives approached IYSSE campaigners and demanded that they cease distributing leaflets. IYSSE representatives insisted on their democratic right to disseminate political material and continued to campaign. In Melbourne, a group of students who witnessed the AYCCs actions encouraged the IYSSE to continue campaigning and took a large bundle of leaflets. The attempts by the political establishment to co-opt the climate strike movement must be resisted. Climate change is a product of the profit system, and the irrational division of the globe into competing capitalist nation-states. What is required is a turn to the working class, and the construction of a mass socialist movement against war, inequality and authoritarianism. Only by establishing a world socialist society, based on social need, not private profit, can the scourges of climate change, poverty and the threat of nuclear war be ended. Mass demonstrations took place in cities and small towns across Algeria yesterday, the fourth successive Friday of protests demanding an end to the military-backed National Liberation Front (FLN) regime and its figurehead president, Abdelaziz Bouteflika. Various estimates indicate that the demonstrations were as large or larger than those of last Friday, when more than one million people gathered in the capital of Algiers alone. El Watan estimated that hundreds of thousands were protesting in Bejaia, located on the Mediterranean and the largest city in the countrys Kabylie region. Large protests also took place in Oran, the second-biggest city. The government sought to limit the protests in Algiers by shutting down inbound traffic to the capital. El Mouradia reported that roads were blocked for buses from Bouira, Bejaia and Tizi Ouzou, and posted pictures of young people proceeding by foot beyond the road blocks. Nevertheless, an estimated 1.8 million people attended protests in the center of the capital. Tout sur lAlgerie wrote: In central Algiers, protesters were so thick on the streets they could not even move. The streets and surrounding alleyways are saturated. Everyone is so calm that children are napping, held by their parents. A festive atmosphere reigns in Algiers, no incident has been reported. Mass transit, long-distance trains and many shops were closed in Algiers amid calls for a general strike. Workers at the National Industrial Vehicles Company (SNVI) went on strike. Workers at Sonelgaz, the national electricity and gas firm, walked off the job for an hour, and there were reports of strike action at Sonatrach, the national natural gas production monopoly. Media reports indicated that half of the shops were closed in Constantine, Algerias third-largest city, and that business was totally stopped in Bejaia. The expansion of the demonstrations reflects the repudiation of the regimes announcement via a letter in the name of Bouteflika on Sunday night of a supposed political transition that in fact preserving both the regime and its figurehead. The letter called for the creation of a token national conference formed and overseen by the regime itself to draft a new constitution and set the date for new elections. The current fourth term of Bouteflikawho has not spoken publicly since 2013is being extended and elections previously scheduled for April are postponed indefinitely. Protesters chanted slogans or held up signs saying Leave all of you, We wanted elections without Bouteflika now we have Bouteflika without elections, They tried to bury us, they didnt know we were seeds. Some slogans also directly addressed French President Emmanuel Macron, who has supported Bouteflika, saying Take care of the yellow vests, Macron, thats enough for you or Get the wood ready, Macron, there will be no Algerian gas for you this year. The regime has also dissolved the cabinet and named Noureddine Bedoui, who had been the interior minister since 2015, as the new prime minister. On Wednesday, Bedoui gave a press briefing in the capital and declared that a technocratic government of national competency would be formed next week. He refused to specify the date for elections and stated that the government will have a short period. The new deputy prime minister, Ramrane Lamamra, was foreign minister from 2013 to 2017. He is a career United Nations diplomat and was ambassador to the United States from 1996 to 1999. Workers and youthmore than two thirds of the population is aged under 30are being driven into struggle in opposition to their social conditions. One young person, cited by DW on March 12 stated, We dont want delays in the elections, we dont want a fifth mandate [for Bouteflika]. We reject this system. We have had enough of it, and denounced the fact that there is no access to health care for the population. Youth unemployment is 30 percent. A report by the Algerian League for the Defense of Human Rights in 2015 estimated that 80 percent of the national wealth is held by 10 percent of the population, and found that some 14 million people live in abject poverty of less than $1.5 per day. A survey of 4,500 households showed that their average purchasing power fell by an average of 60 percent in one year from 2014. There is a class chasm separating the strivings of the working class from the entire political establishment, including the official opposition, and the trade unions. The latter have been terrified by the emergence of strikes over the past week, which erupted on Sunday in a nationwide strike that spread through social media largely independently of the unions. The strikes continued and expanded on Monday, and have continued in some areas, including Bejaia and Tizi Ouzou, since, with the trade unions doing everything possible to shut them down. A political operation is underway from all the governing parties through to the official left opposition such as Louisa Hanounes Workers Party (PT), the Socialist Workers Party (PST, allied to the Pabloite New Anti-Capitalist Party in France) and the trade unions, to derail and suppress the movement of the working class. (See: Socialist Workers Party seeks to derail movement against Algerian regime) The PT did not publish a word in response to Bouteflikas announcement for more than 24 hours. The PT is publicly identified as a loyal faction of the regime, and Hanoune was heckled at demonstrations and forced to leave at the start of the month because of this. The statement published by the PTs political bureau on March 12 warned that the governments announcement, which would have been acceptable a year ago, has now been totally overtaken. It called on the government to carry out measures virtually identical to gnoxd already announced: If the president really wants to give a show if its sincerity as it restores the voice of the people, let it name a technical government which acts in total transparency, composed of compelling and patriotic men and women, capable of listening to the majority, to lead affairs until the majority decides on the nature of the regime to put in place and the date of elections. The other major parties, including former Prime Minister Ali Benflis of the Talaie El Hourriyet party, held a meeting on Wednesday in Algiers to discuss a joint response to the eruption of mass working-class opposition to the Bouteflika regime and its announcement. They released a statement opposing the announcement and supporting protests. The main appeal by the opposition parties is for the military to place an alternative figurehead in power and further incorporate them into the existing regime. Benflis gave an interview to Le Monde yesterday in which he declared his total support for the military and General Gael Salah, stating: I cannot imagine a situation that the army could go against the aspirations of the Algerian people. On Thursday former Texas congressman Beto ORourke became the 15th declared candidate for the 2020 Democratic Party presidential nomination. The 15th so far. There are more nonentities, hucksters and reactionaries to follow. ORourke is a conventional American bourgeois politician. He attempts to make something out of his relative youth, punk rock background and tactical differences with ultra-reactionaries such as Donald Trump and Ted Cruz, against whom he ran for the US Senate seat in Texas in 2018. But as Shakespeares King Lear once noted, ominously for everyone concerned as it turned out, Nothing will come of nothing. ORourkes three-minute video released Thursday announcing his candidacy for the 2020 nomination is presumably typical of what we can expect from him, i.e., a stream of stock phrases and empty generalities intended to be vaguely urgent, uplifting and optimistic without committing the candidate to anything. Seated, with rolled-up sleeves, by his wordless, adoring wife and carefully emphasizing those words and phrases his advisors have presumably told him are vital to the success of his venture, ORourke began: Amy and I are happy to share with you that Im running to serve you as the next president of the United States of America. This is a defining moment of truth for this country and for every single one of us. The challenges that we face right now, the interconnected crises in our economy, our democracy and our climate have never been greater. And they will either consume us, or they will afford us the greatest opportunity to unleash the genius of the United States of America. In other words, this moment of peril produces perhaps the greatest moment of promise for this country and for everyone inside of it. Many viewers may not have been as pleased as ORourke and his wife to learn that he was selflessly and generously proposing to serve them as president. Indeed, the offer must have struck a good many as over-generous and even uninvited. Voices were heard to mutter, No, thank you, on the whole, wed rather you didnt. Moreover, based on what we have seen so far of the Texas politician, including his recent video effort, it is not likely that ORourke will be part of that American genius he threatens to unleash. ORourkes primary claim to fame is making the Senate contest with Cruz, a detestable figure, in 2018 a close one. That had little to do with ORourke, much less any progressive content to his campaign. Indeed, as the WSWS noted at the time, his candidacy was prominently endorsed by former CIA director John Brennan, arch-war criminal and defender of torture and drone missile assassinations. In addition, the three-term El Paso congressman won the backing of the Houston Chronicle, the Dallas Morning News and the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, three of the states most prominent newspapers and traditional supporters of Republican candidates, including George W. Bush. In that 2018 race, ORourke was able to raise tens of millions of dollars from donors all over the US. Given the egotism and self-admiration of such types, it was perhaps inevitable that he drew the conclusion he had a vast following, rather than seeing his support as an expression of widespread revulsion at the semi-fascist Cruz. In fact, both major parties are widely held in contempt. Following upon a presidential election in 2016 between the two most disliked candidates in US history, the general standing of Democratic and Republican politicians with the public remains at all-time lows. As of December 2018, the US Congress had an 18 percent job approval rating. A CNN headline in 2017 summed up the general situation: Poll: Trump, Democrats and GOP all unpopular. There is no American politician, with the possible and mistaken exception of Sen. Bernie Sanders, associated with widely popular attacks on the billionaire class, who has a genuine base of support. Betomania is a media concoction intended to deceive the population. Coinciding neatly with his presidential bid announcement, Vanity Fair magazine put ORourkeon a rural dirt road, dressed in jeans and in the company of a black Labradoron the cover of its March 13 edition. The cover reads: Betos ChoiceI want to be in it. Man, I was born to be in it. His road to 2020 begins. Those who fall for this sort of nonsense Kennedy-esque, a fresh face, an inspirational speaker, untested but charismaticit goes on and on. According to Politico, ORourke has catapulted to become one of the Democratic Partys most buzzed-about prospects. The Democratic Party specializes in coming up with mavericks with nothing unconventional about them, independents joined at the hip to the corporate-financial elite and populists whose policies would further damage the population. ORourke, a businessman whose real estate developer father-in-law is worth an estimated $500 million (according to Forbes), recently affirmed his support for the existing economic system, the source of every social ill in America. The Wall Street Journal reported his comments: I'm a capitalist I don't see how we're able to meet any of the fundamental challenges that we have as a country without, in part, harnessing the power of the market. Climate change is the most immediate example of that. If you're going to bring the total innovation and ingenuity of this country to bear our economy is going to have to be a part of that. ORourke, promising a people-powered campaign and urging the building of the greatest grassroots campaign ever, could not even manage at a 2018 town hall to term himself a political progressive. He wretchedly explained, I don't know I'm not big on labels. I don't get all fired up about party or classifying or defining people based on a label or a group. Im for everyone. Or, as an Associated Press headline put it, ORourke begins 2020 bid with big crowds, centrist message. His views on the anti-Russian campaign (he supported impeachment of Trump over his summit with Vladimir Putin), the military, immigration and every other major issue are in line, give or take, with the rest of the political establishment. He has criticized Trumps fascistic ranting about Mexican immigrants but opposes amnesty for the undocumented and open borders and praises the current level of border security, which has led to the deaths of thousands of desperate people. Even ORourkes record on border walls, in opposition to which he recently led a well-publicized protest, in the words of the Associated Press, is complicated. In March, he supported a spending package that other leading Democratic contenders opposed and included $1.6 billion for border wall construction in Texas Rio Grande Valley and elsewhere. Buried in that was $445 million for repairs of existing fencing elsewhereincluding El Paso. ORourkes action attracted criticism from people who know the border best. Scott Nicol, co-chairman of the Sierra Clubs Borderlands team, called it very disappointing. ORourke apparently hopes to follow in the footsteps of Barack Obama, a largely unknown individual with little political history who was picked up by powerful economic and state interests and packaged for the benefit of the public as the candidate of change. Following his Thursday video release, the Atlantic noted in a headline that ORourke wants to be Obama. The magazine commented: A long time ago already, Obama became a celebrity himself, propelled to run for president mostly because of one amazing convention speech, and awarded the Nobel Peace Prize without seeming to have done all that much to earn it other than win the Electoral College and not be George W. Bush. The article also observed that in his video announcement ORourke gave no specifics on how hed do anything he wants to do, or even exactly what that might be other than a long pledge to uplift people and bring the country together, instead of tearing it apart, as Trump has. Nor did he give specifics at his first event, in Iowa later in the morning and carried live on cablehe talked about health care but didnt mention Medicare for all or any alternative. He was asked about the Green New Deal but talked generally about the climate as he addressed the spirit of the question. There are T-shirts and hats for sale online, with just his first name. Its not up on hotels or towers anywhere, but no other Democrat running is famous enough to be quite such a brand. In other words, without fully meaning to, the Atlantic piece paints the portrait of a political charlatan, an empty vessel who will be at the service of the oligarchy. Not everyone is happy with ORourke. The New York Times, speaking for upper-middle-class layers obsessed with gender and race, expressed disappointment with the entrance of a white male into the Democratic presidential mix. One Times piece observed Friday that the charismatic Texas Democrats three-minute clip quickly racked up thousands of shares, with some viewers excited by the prospect of his out-of-nowhere political rise. But others were put off by how his campaign deployed an age-old trope in American political theaterthe silent, supportive wife. Mr. ORourkes video struck some observers as especially out of place in a presidential race in which more Democratic women are running for president than ever before. Among several of these women, the husbands are rarely seen. Another Times column March 15 noted somberly that some voters and activists have also wondered aloud if a white man is the best fit for this Democratic moment, particularly after midterm successes powered often by female and nonwhite candidates. ORourke is as good a fit as any of the other big-business politicians in the race, all vying to become the highest political representative in charge of managing the common affairs of the whole bourgeoisie. The fraud of the ORourke candidacy brings out sharply and dramatically the desiccation of the American political system, its alienation from the broad mass of the population and the antidemocratic character of the entire electoral process. At the conclusion of a series of votes this week, MPs in the deeply divided British parliament supported the Conservative government requesting an extension to Article 50, by 413 votes to 202. Article 50 governs the UKs scheduled exit from the European Union (EU) set to take place on March 29. If the extension is accepted by EU member states, this will delay Britains exit from the bloc for a duration yet to be fixed. The deal Prime Minister Theresa May agreed with the EU was massively rejected in January, including by her government partners, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) and the Tories hard Brexit wing. However, May was unable to secure any more concessions from the EU, meaning that her plan was defeated again Tuesday evening by 391 votes to 242. On Wednesday, a government motion that included a caveat that a no-deal Brexit would still be on the table if no final deal is reached with the EU by March 29, was passed by a margin of 321 votes to 278. However, MPs then voted to reject a no-deal Brexit outright, backing a cross party amendment by just 312 votes to 308. With Mays deal and a no-deal Brexit opposed by MPs, Thursday still saw a large defeat of an amendment demanding a second referendum on EU membershipbacked by the newly formed The Independent Group (TIG), a right-wing split off from Labour. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn called on MPs to abstain on the vote, but 25 of the parties pro-EU wing rebelled and backed it. However, aware that there is nowhere near a majority in parliament for a second referendum, even the cross-party Peoples Vote campaign, led by the Blairites, called on MPs not to support the TIG motion. Indicative of the divisions in all parties, another 18 Labour MPs, supportive of Brexit, also voted against. In the end the motion was defeated by 334-85. Labours own amendment called for a delay under Article 50 to provide parliamentary time for this House to find a majority for a different approach. It was defeated by 318 votes to 302. With parliament in stalemate and no agreement reached with the EU, the final vote on Thursday saw MPs backing a government motion by 413 votes to 202 requesting an extension to Article 50. May was forced to allow Tory MPs a free vote on the motion, with most voting against extension including seven members of her Cabinet. Her motion relied on the support of Labour and other opposition parties. Following the vote, May said she would put her deal to the vote again next Tuesday, ahead of an EU decision on Article 50 on Thursday. She warned that another defeat would likely mean a long Brexit delay. May has stressed repeatedly that her deal agreed with the EU is the only genuine alternative to either a no-deal Brexit (with no trade arrangements with the EU) or Brexit being abandoned altogether. Her aim is to secure the backing of both wings of her party for a soft-Brexit compromise. With the DUP and Tories hard Brexit wing fearing that Brexit could be delayed to a point where the UK would be legally obliged to participate in Mays European election, or even longer, it is understood that they are getting closer to backing Mays deal. This is contingent on the Attorney General, Geoffrey Cox, giving further assurances that Northern Ireland and therefore the entire UK will not be held a customs union indefinitely with the EU post-Brexit, under the so-called backstop. What is truly remarkable in this bizarre pantomime is that the Tories are still in power, despite being virtually paralysed by Brexit divisions and that political debate in Britain is dominated by government infighting over competing strategies to secure the geostrategic interest of a sclerotic British imperialism. This is entirely the responsibility of Corbyn. Ever since May took office as a minority dependent on the DUP, she has headed a government of permanent crisis. Her survival has depended on Corbyns suppression of the class struggle amid a rising tide of anti-Tory sentiment. Despite being elected leader in a landslide defeat of his Blairite opponents in the 2015 Labour leadership contest, Corbyn has refused to wage any struggle against them in the name of the preserving the unity of the party, in order to take on the Tories. But without a struggle against his partys right-wing, no struggle against the government is possible. Corbyn is maintaining the political grip of right-wing forces who will do whatever it takes to keep May in office. The Independent Group of splitters state openly that they would back May in any vote of confidence in her. Their co-thinkers still in the Labour Party have the same aim. Had Corbyn supported the fight the partys rank-and-file was desperate to wage, the Blairites would have been deselected and driven out. The political situation would have been transformed, with any call to wage a struggle against austerity, militarism and war winning mass support in the working class. Corbyn wanted none of this. All he has to offer is further bootlicking. In a message read out at a meeting organised by various pseudo-left parties this week in London, ostensibly to oppose the Blairites bogus attacks on Corbyn for being an anti-Semite, the Labour leader called once again for unity with the right. "The only thing that could hold us back would be if we were to turn on each other rather than on the Tory government and wealthy establishment interests they represent," he pleaded. To portray himself as a safer pair of hands than the Tories in the ruling elites greatest hour of need, Corbyn has tried to transform himself from a non-descript backbencher of 30 yearswho would vote against the most rotten of his partys policiesto a statesman-in-waiting. When May first agreed her deal with Brussels, Corbyn denounced it as an unparalleled and unacceptable loss of sovereignty, which Labour will not accept on behalf of our country. At the conclusion of this weeks events, Corbyn, said, After the last few days of government chaos and some defeats, all of us now have the opportunity and the responsibility to work together to find a solution to the crisis facing this country, where the government has so dramatically failed to do so We have begun to hold meetings with members across the house to find a consensus and a compromise that meets the needs of our country. Corbyn will still be able to count on the unwavering support of the pseudo-left groups such as the Socialist Workers Party and Socialist Party. The more Corbyn refuses to fight and is exposed before his supporters, the more shrilly do their newspapers beg him to deal with the Blairites and fight for a workers Brexit. The author recommends: For an active boycott of the Brexit referendum! [29 February 2016] The Brexit crisis and the struggle for socialism [23 January 2019] Newly elected California Governor Gavin Newsom on Wednesday signed an executive order imposing a moratorium on the states death penalty. While not abolishing the death penalty, the legal effect of Newsoms order means that none of the 737 condemned inmates on Californias death row can be executed while he serves as governor. Nationally 2,738 prisoners are on death row, with California accounting for more than 25 percent of the total. Since the death penalty was reinstated in California in 1978, the state has carried out 13 executions, the last being in 2006. During this 40-year period, 80 of Californias death row inmates have died by natural causes, and 26twice the number executedhave died by suicide. Our death penalty system has beenby any measurea failure, Newsom, a Democrat, said in a written statement. It has provided no public safety benefit or value as a deterrent. It has wasted billions of taxpayer dollars. But most of all, the death penalty is absolute, irreversible and irreparable in the event of a human error. We are considering executing more people than any other state in modern historyto line up human beings, every day, for executions for two-plus years. Premeditated, state-sponsored executions ... I cannot sign off on executing hundreds and hundreds of human beings, knowing among them are people who are innocent. Newsom made reference to the 164 people nationwide who have been freed from death row after they were found to have been wrongfully convicted, including five from California. A court-ordered moratorium on executions has been in place in California since February 2006, when a federal judge declared that its lethal injection protocol was unconstitutional. A new execution protocol is under review, and it is expected to be approved shortly. Once the injection protocol is approved, the 2006 court-ordered moratorium would be rescinded. With 26 inmates having all of their appeals exhausted, it was likely that Newsom would have soon found himself presiding over multiple executions on a monthly basis. By taking this action, Newsom, who as mayor of San Francisco in 2004 authorized the issuance of marriage licenses for same-sex couples, hopes to further elevate his progressive brand on a national level and at the same time avoid the gruesomeness of having to preside over regularly occurring executions. According to public opinion polls there has been a steady nationwide decline of support for capital punishment, not only in California but nationally. Public support in the mid-1990s for capital punishment was at an all-time high of 80 percentduring the Clinton administrations promotion of a draconian law and order culturewith only 16 percent opposed. Support in favor of the practice has fallen to below 60 percent in the most recent polling. In California two voter initiatives to end the death penalty have narrowly failed to gain a majority in recent years, with 48 percent support in 2012 and 47 percent support in 2016. A variety of factors have contributed to the dramatic decrease in support for the death penalty. Many are now opposed because of the ever-present risk of wrongful conviction, the widespread recognition of the existence of bias against low-income and minority defendants who are disproportionally charged with capital offenses, the geographic variance in its administration (rarely used in some states, routinely applied in Texas, for example), the widespread acceptance of life without parole as a preferable alternative, and the fact that most other civilized societies around the world have long ago concluded that this barbaric practice should be abolished. Moreover, the popular aversion to successive administrations carrying out endless wars, torture and massive surveillance, and a growing distrust of federal government, have also contributed to this shift. This shift has resulted in the death penalty either being abolished or suspended as a result of moratoriums in nearly half of the states. Twenty states and the District of Columbia have abolished it outright, and four statesCalifornia, Oregon, Colorado and Pennsylvaniahave imposed moratoriums. The judicial system, representing some of the most class-conscious representatives of the ruling class, has been sensitive to this shift. In 1996 Supreme Court Justice Harry Blackmun, the then 85-year-old senior member of the court, in a lone dissent from the Courts refusal to hear an appeal from a Texas death row inmate, wrote that after his 20-year struggle with the issue of capital punishment he had concluded that the death penalty experiment has failed and that it was time for the Court to abandon the delusion that capital punishment could be consistent with the US Constitution. From this day forward, he wrote, I no longer shall tinker with the machinery of death. In the last two decades a divided US Supreme Court has ruled the execution of mentally retarded individuals (Atkins v. Virginia, 2002) and juveniles (Roper v. Simmons, 2005) to be in violation of the Eighth Amendment to the Constitutions ban on cruel and unusual punishment. In a 2015 dissent in Glossip v. Gross, Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer joined by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg expressed their view that the death penalty in the United States may be unconstitutional, as it violates the prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment. They argued that the death penalty was cruel because of its serious unreliability as shown by convincing evidence that innocent people have been executed and striking evidence that it has been wrongly imposed on more than 100 innocent men and women. They also said that wrongful convictions were more likely in capital than in non-capital cases, due to public pressure to obtain conviction, anomalies in the jury selection process, flawed forensic testimony, judicial misconduct and other factors. The recent confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh as an associate justice on the high court has shifted the Supreme Court further to the right, so it is likely that it will continue to uphold the constitutionality of the death penalty for the foreseeable future, regardless of its growing opposition nationally. Another source of opposition to the death penalty is from its fiscal opponents, who oppose it because of its exorbitant monetary cost, estimated to exceed $300 million per execution in California. Many prosecutors and judges who previously strongly supported the death penalty now oppose it for this reason. Newsom addressed this fiscal opposition by emphasizing the $5 billion that it has cost California taxpayers since 1978. For his part, President Trump, a proponent of capital punishment, denounced Newsoms moratorium by tweeting: Defying voters, the Governor of California will halt all death penalty executions of 737 stone cold killers. Following Newsoms announcement of the moratorium, Democratic Assemblyman Marc Levine introduced a state constitutional amendment to ban the death penalty in California. If approved by two-thirds of the State Assembly and Senate, this measure would then appear on the ballot in 2020. Forty-nine people were killed and another 48 injured in a horrifying terrorist attack yesterday afternoon on two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch. The attack is by far the largest mass shooting and the most severe act of terrorism in New Zealands history, and one of the worlds worst in the recent period. Seven people died at Linwood Masjid Mosque and 41 at Masjid Al Noor Mosque next to Hagley Park, near the city centre. Another person died in hospital. It is possible the death toll will rise. Ordinary people internationally have expressed shock over the attack and sympathy with the victims. Vigils are planned in New Zealand towns and cities on Saturday night and in coming days. Mourners outside Wellington mosque Three people have been arrested in connection with the massacre. Weapons were found near each of the mosques. Police also disarmed two explosive devices found in one vehiclean indication that further attacks might have been planned. So far, only one man has been named, 28-year-old Australian citizen Brenton Tarrant, who appeared in court today charged with murder. The attack is a horrific crime, an act of barbarism motivated by racism and extreme right-wing ideology. It is not just a New Zealand event, but is the outcome of the rise of far-right, fascistic networks that have developed around the world, promoted and protected from the highest levels of the state apparatus. Their activities have expanded alongside the rapid escalation of the international class struggle and desperate moves by the ruling elites to suppress opposition by eviscerating basic democratic rights. Tarrant drew his inspiration from, and had a definite audience among, far-right, anti-immigrant groups internationally. Video footage of the Al Noor Mosque attack was broadcast live on Facebook and YouTube, apparently from a camera mounted on Tarrants head. The footage, since taken down, shows the gunman driving to the mosque, entering the building and carrying out his cold-blooded and systematic massacre. Defenceless victims, including small children, had little chance of escaping the hail of bullets from the assault rifle. Although many details are not yet known, it is clear that this was not a random or senseless action. According to a 73-page manifesto published by Tarrant online, he spent two years planning the attack after spending some time living in Europe. Entitled The Great Replacement, the manifesto makes clear that Tarrant was a white supremacist and considered himself a fascist. The document praised mass murderer Anders Behring Breivik, who killed dozens of young people and children at a Norwegian Labour Party camp in 2011, motivated by anti-Islamist prejudice. Tarrant claimed to have had brief contact with Breivik and to have received his blessing for the New Zealand attack. Just last month, US authorities arrested a Coast Guard Lieutenant, Christopher Paul Hasson, who was plotting to carry out terrorist attacks against socialist groups, Democratic Party politicians and media personalities. Hasson is a neo-Nazi who also proclaims Breivik as his idol. Tarrant hailed US President Donald Trump as a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose. Like Trump, Tarrant described immigrants as invaders, stating: We must crush immigration and deport those invaders already living on our soil. The shooter also threatened leftists. A passage headlined to Antifa/Marxists/Communists stated: I want you in my sights. I want your neck under my boot. On March 12, Tarrant posted numerous photos on Twitter of his assault rifle, covered in written messages, including references to Josue Estebanez, a neo-Nazi who murdered a teenage anarchist in Spain in 2007. Another slogan is Vienna 1683, which references the armed repulsion of Ottoman invaders by Austrian militias. Astonishingly, NZ Police Commissioner Mike Bush claimed that neither New Zealand nor Australian police, or any other agencies, had any prior knowledge of Tarrant or the other people arrested. They were not, apparently, on any extremist watch lists. If this is true, it underscores the fact that the state authorities have turned a blind eye to, and are complicit in, the activities of the far-right networks. No explanation has been given as to how such an attack could be planned for years without coming to the attention of police. Questions are also being raised about how the attackers acquired their weapons. New Zealand has no gun register and there are 1.3 million legally-owned weapons, in a country of just under 5 million people. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern stated in a press conference on Friday evening that New Zealand was not chosen for this act of violence because we condone racism, because we are an enclave for extremism. We were chosen for the very fact that we are none of those things. Because we represent diversity, kindness, compassion. In fact, the attack took place in a definite domestic and international political context characterised by imperialist violence and increasing nationalism, xenophobia and racism. It follows almost two decades of New Zealand and Australian participation in US-led wars in Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria, which have killed more than a million people. Troops from New Zealand and Australia have been implicated in multiple massacres and atrocities against civilians in Afghanistan. Under deteriorating social conditions, growing inequality and increasing poverty, there has been a definite move to foster the creation of an alt-right movement in New Zealand. It is designed to confront the growing radicalisation of the working class and youth. The atrocity in New Zealand follows not only the mass murder committed by Breivik in Norway, but the murders carried out by fascists at a Sikh temple in Oak Creek, Wisconsin in 2012 and at a Jewish care home in Overland Park, Kansas in 2014; the 2015 massacre of African-American worshippers in Charleston, South Carolina; the 2016 murder of British Labour politician Jo Cox; the 2017 killing of six people at a mosque in Quebec City, Canada; and the murder in 2018 of 11 Jewish worshippers at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvaniato cite only some of the right-wing acts of terrorism. Echoing the recent assault on British Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn, NZ Green Party leader James Shaw was attacked in a Wellington street last Thursday by an individual shouting slogans against the United Nations. The assailant may well have been motivated by recent protests by far-right groups against New Zealand signing the UN Migration Compact. Anti-Islamic sentiment has been deliberately stoked by politicians in Australia and New Zealand. Australias extreme right-wing Independent Senator Fraser Anning issued a fascistic press release blaming the Christchurch massacre on the victims themselves. He described Muslim immigration as the real cause of the attack. Anning recently attended a rally at St. Kilda Beach organised by prominent Australian neo-Nazis. At her first press conference on Friday evening, Ardern declared that there is no place in New Zealand for purveyors of hate. However, Ardern has embraced, and brought into the very centre of her government, the racist and populist NZ First Party, which was founded in the early 1990s on an explicit anti-Asian, anti-immigrant platform. NZ First, which is a partner in the Labour-led coalition government, is a notorious spreader of anti-Muslim xenophobia. Despite receiving just 7.2 percent of the votes in 2017, NZ First was given the roles of foreign minister, defence minister and deputy prime minister. Following the June 2017 London terror attacks, NZ First leader Winston Peters demanded in parliament that New Zealands Islamic community clean house by naming potential terrorists in their own families. Without producing any evidence of such extremism, Peters denounced the twisted spirit of inclusiveness that accommodated the culture of Damascus and Tripoli in New Zealand. He declared: We must avoid the same politically correct trap that has allowed such communities apart to form We must stop the slide as a people, as a culture in the West. Last year, NZ First called for a New Zealand values test to be administered to new immigrants, clearly a dog whistle aimed against Muslims and Asian migrants. Peters said it would stop migrants who believe women are cattle and second-class citizens. Another NZ First member, Roger Melville, declared that people from Pakistan, Indians and some Asian-type nations were forcing their ways on others. The Christchurch attack provides a deadly warning about the dangers ahead. An atmosphere of toxic nationalism, militarism and anti-immigrant xenophobia is being whipped up internationally, providing the basis for the re-emergence of fascism as capitalism lurches into its greatest crisis since the 1930s. It must be answered by the building of an international socialist movement, unifying the working class of all countries in the struggle to end capitalism and the fascist reaction it has spawned. An estimated 1.4 million students and youth walked out of school and took part in Fridays worldwide demonstrations against climate change. The internationally coordinated protests, the largest in 16 years, were organized in response to the growing realization among young people that the governments of the world are incapable of taking any significant measures to halt global warming. The latest UN report states that there may be as few as eleven years before the impact of climate change on human civilization becomes exponentially more devastating. The demonstrators have also directed their outrage against international agreements such as the Paris Accord, which have all proven to be worthless in addressing the crisis. The initial impulse of the movement, known as the Youth Climate Strike and Fridays For Future, was given by 16-year-old Greta Thunberg, who began protesting against climate change outside the Swedish parliament building last August. This has been followed by a series of protests over the past several months. Yesterdays protests were on a larger scale. The official list counts actions in more than 2,000 cities in at least 120 countries on every continent, including Antarctica. There were 235 in Italy, 214 in France, 200 in Germany, 195 in the United States, 144 in Sweden and 120 in the United Kingdom. The single biggest demonstration was in Milan, where an estimated 100,000 students and youth marched. Organizers counted 60,000 participants in Montreal, 50,000 in Naples, 40,000 in Paris, 30,000 in Brussels and Rome, 20,000 in Berlin and 10,000 in London. Smaller protests involving dozens or hundreds of students and youth occurred in every corner of the globe, including Cape Town, Tokyo, Moscow, New Delhi, Mexico City, Jakarta, Buenos Aires and Shanghai. More than 23,000 German, Austrian and Swiss scientists signed a statement supporting the protests under the name Scientists For Future. They declared, The concerns of the young protesters are justified and supported by the best available science The young people rightly demand that our society should prioritize sustainability and especially climate action without further hesitation. Without far-reaching and consistent change, their future is in danger. The demonstrations reflect a growing radicalization of young people internationally, not only in relation to climate change, but in response to mounting social inequality, the victimization of immigrants and refugees and unending war. This was reflected in many of the slogans on handmade banners that students brought to the rallies. Some included: Capitalism is killing the planet; kill capitalism; Profit or future; Open borders for refugees; Capitalism is killing us; and World strike for the future. Members of the Socialist Equality Party and the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) and other supporters of the World Socialist Web Site attended demonstrations in several countries, where they distributed copies of the WSWS Perspective commentary The Youth Climate Strike and the fight against global warming and other statements, explaining the SEPs fight to mobilize the working class against capitalism. The perspective advanced by supporters of the SEP was in sharp contrast to that promoted by various Democratic Party politicians and their counterparts internationally. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez tweeted that the young people were beginning to launch climate walkouts to pressure their governments into acting on real climate change plan. Ocasio-Cortez and other Democrats are promoting a Green New Deal, which is based on the fiction that anything can be done to stop climate change within the framework of the Democratic Party and the capitalist system. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern wrote, [W]e hear you and we're getting on with setting a path for carbon neutrality, referring to the different carbon emission trading schemes New Zealand has attempted in recent years. They were joined by various trade unions and pseudo-left groups seeking to bolster the credentials of the parties of the political establishment. Many of those who came to demonstrations, however, understood the need for a political struggle against capitalism. They discussed the SEPs critique of the Democratic Party and the various Labour and social democratic parties as parties of capitalism, equally responsible with their more openly right-wing counterparts for militarism, attacks on democratic rights and austerity. The International Youth and Students for Social Equality at the University of Michigan spoke with students and youth in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Marisol, a high school junior at Community High School, said, The corporations and politicians are totally unwilling to change anything. The working class just needs to wake up and see our power. She added, Its not the fault of the people at the bottom, who have nothing. Its the rich and the corporations and the politicians who are responsible. Lys, a high-school student in Paris, noted that Today in France there are 280,000 soldiers. They are deployed throughout the world. I find that France has a sphere of action that is far too large. The wars are for private interests, whether they be financial or political, and not for humanitarian concerns. Thats what I find dangerous. Thats also what Im afraid of for the climate. Its the private interests that buy politics and power. Thats why I came today. The massive influx of resources needed to halt and reverse climate change requires the reorganization of economic, social and political life on an international scale. Energy production must be coordinated on a global scale in order to transition to renewable forms, which in turn requires the most serious scientific investigation into new techniques and ideas. Such a fundamental shift, however, comes into direct conflict with the nation-state system and the drive of corporations for private profit. It is not a question of youth appealing to the powers that be, but of directly opposing the domination of society by a handful of billionaires and the social system over which they preside. At the same time, as the global nature of the protests objectively demonstrates, students must turn to the decisive revolutionary and international social force on Earth, the working class. Just as economic and technical development under capitalism has caused a worldwide ecological crisis, it also contains the ability to address this crisis in a rational way. However, to free up the resources needed to tackle climate changealong with war, poverty and inequalityrequires a complete socialist reorganization of economic life. The economy must be placed in the democratic control of the working class, the only social force capable of establishing a society based on human need, including a healthy global environment. Tens of thousands of Australian high school students participated in internationally coordinated strikes yesterday, demanding immediate action to reverse climate change and end environmental degradation. The International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE), the youth wing of the Socialist Equality Party, explained at the protests that the destruction of the environment could only be ended through the construction of a mass movement of the working class aimed at reorganising world society along socialist lines, to meet human need, not the profit dictates of a tiny corporate elite. The rallies in Sydney and Melbourne, which numbered over 30,000 each, were attended by a diverse layer of students from private and public schools hailing from every area of both cities. The protest in Newcastle, a working class regional centre north of Sydney, involved around 2,000 students. IYSSE campaigners spoke with many of the protesters. Zac (right) with a classmate In Sydney, Zac, a year 10 student, said: Ive come here to support the demand for climate action, coming from all of the students and the younger generations here. Its a great way to raise awareness, because for us young people we are talking about the world that we will live in the future. The destruction of the environment is taking away the things that we need to live. I can see that climate change is a product of capitalism. The rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer. And the rich are using things, like all of the resources we have, and its taking away from the rest of society. We need awareness to be raised, and people in parliament who dont recognise climate change need to be pushed out. Nathan Nathan commented: Politicians are investing in things that are harming the environment and jeopardising our future. Theyre not investing in renewable energies. Politicians get money from the banks and from companies like Adani. And they control the political agenda. Were not being positively impacted by that. Inequality is really there, and its growing every single day. If we dont do something about it now, its just going to keep growing. Things for young people are getting worse, in terms of the gap between the rich and the poor and the lack of jobs. If we dont take a stand against the government now, then nothing is going to improve. Akkul, a hospitality worker originally from India, said he came to the protest, because I have been concerned about climate change since I saw the film, An Inconvenient Truth by the former US presidential candidate Al Gore, many years ago. Akkul Ive seen drastic change in the country Im from, India. Bangalore is now rated as one of the worst cities in the world to live in, because its contaminated with so much industrial waste everywhere, including in the rivers. In another five or six years, it will be an unlivable city. I want to save it, because it is one of Indias nicest cities and it is where I am from. The same thing is happening in the so-called developing world everywhere. Businesses and people who are just going after money are hurting the planet. Why are they harming the environment and other people they are living with? Just for profit. Its a crime and we should stop it. As individuals, we cannot stop these billionaires, because they will just do whatever they want, they have all the money. It means we need to build a movement of all ordinary people. Asked about the growth of militarism and war, including the recent clashes between India and Pakistan, Akkul commented: I have Pakistani friends who are beautiful people. It is just the politicians who are creating all of these conflicts. In Melbourne, Corryn, a high school graduate who wants to study environmental issues said: The purpose of today is so that the government sees there are people that really want to see change in the climate crisis right now. With the volume of people here I hope that we have gotten the message across that we want the government to do something. Its a global effort. If one country makes a progressive effort toward climate change and others do not, its not going to really make a big difference. Its worldwide. Every country needs to do their bit. There are only 100 companies and corporations which make the largest contribution towards carbon emissions each year. I dont think thats very fair. Theres a small number of corporations that have the biggest impact on the environment. Its not democratic and its not majority rule. Cielle, Annabelle, Katarina, Kristen and their friends The Melbourne IYSSE also spoke to Cielle, Annabelle, Katarina, Kristen, year 12 students. Kirsten said: A lot of people say that nothings going to happen when we go on strike, but thats wrong. Youve got to raise awareness on these issues. Weve got to prove that we really believe in this, and that its really important to us. If we, as teenagers, say this is a big issue, then it is. Katarina stated: We dont want to be ignored anymore. We want this issue to be taken seriously. Annabelle said: It is an international effort, and thats why this is so important. Its around the world. Its not just Australia, its everywhere. There are over 100 protests across the world. Its all on the same day. I think that we, as students, are really getting our message across. Cielle added: I think that the government didnt believe we could have such a strong voice. This goes to show the adults that we do have a voice, and we are using it. Annabelle said: A socialist society is where we should be headed. Its where we can join together in a community association. Capitalism is about whos at the top, and the power structures always winning. Its so important that socialism is a voice in this conversation. Luke Luke, a year 10 student, attended the Newcastle rally with around 140 classmates. He said: The youth feel really compelled for change to happen. We need to change it before things, before they get worse. Otherwise, climate change will get to the point where it cant be reversed. This is one of the most important things for our generation to address. Its very true that past governments have been suppressing and diverting this issue, even the Gillard Labor government, which was supported by the Greens. In a lot of countries, political parties and governments hide important issues from the youth. They dont want us to make a ruckus like we are now. The rich dont really need to care, they dont have to deal with the situation and they can just avoid it. I do agree that the working class definitely should start their own organisations. Im pretty sure my entire school would be interested in reading more of your literature as well. Shae-lee and Cameron said they came to the Newcastle rally because the government isnt listening to whats happening and doesnt want to make any hard decisions. We want to force the government to listen to us, Cameron said. Shae-lee and Cameron Shae-Lee added: We have this thing called the HSC discussion group, where a lot of year 12 students discuss the issues surrounding the climate strike. Some people were saying, We care more about the economy than the environment, but how can you even think that? Youre not going to even have an economy if the world is in shambles! People care more about their money than our home, said Cameron, they discount all the different means of alternative energy and think coal is the only way. Plus, people attack individuals for the problems of climate change, said Shae-lee, but they dont address the big corporations that are actually causing all this pollution. Willie, originally from Vietnam and now studying environmental management at Newcastle University, said: I think its important that young people are acknowledging what is happening and acting on it, because they are the ones who are going to suffer the short-sighted political decisions of today. They are the future. Politicians today care more about profit than the issues facing the environment. IYSSE campaigners outlined the internationalist and socialist perspective of the Trotskyist movement. Willie responded: You have parties in other parts of the world as well? And you have a connection to the Russian Revolution? Ive heard of that, its a big moment in history. I want to learn more about your perspective. Socialist Equality Party (SEP) and International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) campaign teams visited several more estates in the central hill district last week, building support for the plantation workers conference to be held tomorrow, Sunday March 17, at Hatton Town Hall. The Abbotsleigh Estate Workers Action Committee, with the SEPs support, has called the conference to discuss The lessons of the plantation workers struggle and the way forward to win higher wages and democratic rights. After continuous protests, more than 100,000 plantation workers launched an indefinite strike last December for their demand for a 1,000-rupee ($US5.50) basic daily wage, an increase of 100 percent. The Ceylon Workers Congress (CWC), backed by the other trade unions, shut down the industrial action, citing bogus promises by President Maithripala Sirisena to resolve the wage issue. SEP members speak with Glenugie Estate workers After scuttling the workers courageous struggle, the CWC and Lanka Jathika Estate Workers Union (LJEWU) signed a collective agreement with the companies. The unions betrayed workers by agreeing to a nominal 40 percent increase, which was, in reality, a mere 20-rupee rise, because the companies slashed allowances. Last Tuesday, the government announced a meagre 50-rupee daily allowance, limited to one year, in a desperate bid to deflect simmering anger among workers. This allowance will be paid by the state-owned Tea Board, as the companies adamantly oppose any further wage increase. In fact, the plantation companies are pushing for the wage model to be replaced by an out-grower scheme designed to increase workloads. This system would reduce workers to share croppers or modern-day bonded labourers. Each worker would be allocated a plot of tea bushes. After sending the harvest of tea leaves to a company, he would be given a supposed share of the income after the company deducted its input costs and profits. Workers have resisted this system where it has been implemented already. However, in the collective agreement, the unions agreed to help companies impose it. This will deepen the opposition of workers to the unions. SEP campaign at Glenugie Estate Last week, SEP and IYSSE campaigners visited Hatton, Watawala, Maskeliya and the Hanthana Estate in the Nuwara-Eliya and Kandy districts. They also spoke to workers at the Aislaby Estate at Bandarawela in the remote Badulla district. Campaigns took place among railway, port and university workers in Colombo and its suburbs, and among university students. The Abbotsleigh Estate Workers Action Committee was formed after the betrayal of the December strike, with the political guidance of the SEP. During the campaign for the March 17 conference, workers have shown interest in forming such committees in their work places in order to break the straitjacket of the unions. The campaign has centred also on the need to fight for socialist policies and a workers and peasants government to implement such policies as part of the struggle for international socialism. P. Rajah P. Rajah, a National Union of Workers (NUW) committee member in the Dickoya estate near Hatton, commented: Every worker is now clear about what was done by the companies, the government and the unions all together. Why should the workers listen to such unions again and again? Rajah added: Workers should believe in their own strength. The unions didnt call for the support of other workers for our struggle. They dont let the workers unite, but always try to divide them. In the Glenugie Estate at Maskeliya, SEP campaigners held a meeting with a group of workers and youth. S. Naguleshwaran migrated to Colombo looking for a better job, but ended up working at a fuel-filling station. He described the similarities of the working conditions he faced with those of the plantation workers. I start work at 5.30 in the morning and finish at 10 at night. Half an hour is allowed for breakfast, and the lunch break is one hour. I work nearly 17 hours a day. Its almost midnight when I go to bed. I usually have two to three hours sleep. My daily wage is 1,400 rupees. Workers cannot continue like this. We need a new social system. Other workers actively participated in the discussion and strongly denounced the unions. K. Sellaiah K. Sellaiah, a retired watcher from Stamford Hill Estate, said he began working in 1961 at the age of 17. In 2001, he resigned after a manager scolded him. Without any alternative, he rejoined as a casual worker, earning only 8,000 rupees a month, before retiring. He said the NUW used to bargain for workers demands, but now they have abandoned this. Explaining the living conditions in the estate, Sellaiah said: I was born and grew up in this home. We still live in this line house, which has two 10 by 10-feet rooms. After the estates were taken over by the government, the JEDB [Janatha Estates Development Board] extended a room on the front side. We are four people. This house is not enough. All the families are living like this. Recently we received a water supply from the nearby Ottery estate. Before that, we suffered difficulties getting water. Sellaiah commented: We need a society where all can live equally. Ill join other workers to participate in the workers conference. T. Thamilvanan T. Thamilvanan, from the Panmure Estate near Hatton, said: All politicians are responsible for the poor living conditions of workers. The houses of managers and trade union leaders are luxury bungalows, but workers who have worked for a long time live in very bad conditions. Thamilvanan said many young people had been forced to work in places like Colombo, due to the oppressive conditions in the estates. Despite moving, he was working for a private company in Colombo for 12 hours a day for just 35,000 rupees a month. A young mother working at the Abbotsleigh Estate described the conditions on the plantations: We work overtime on Sundays if we need extra money. For overtime, we have to complete a target of 40 kilograms. Its not an easy task to pluck such an amount of buds, especially in the dry season. Today I went to work at 5:30 in the morning. I had to work continuously up to noon to complete even the usual daily target. The young mother has two-year-old daughter but cannot stay at home, even on the weekends, to be with her. Her husband works in Colombo as a helper on a construction site and he too cannot afford to come home every weekend. A young worker from the same estate explained: I have no faith in trade unions any more. He understood from the recent struggles that the trade unions were not on the workers side. He added: The companies and unions dont have any right to decide our wages. The salaries should be decided according to our needs. Mentioning that he had participated in earlier events organised by the Abbotsleigh Action Committee, the young worker was positive about the upcoming conference. I hope workers from other sections will join with us at the conference, he said. We urge workers, youth and progressive-minded intellectuals to attend this important conference, to be held at Hatton Town Hall, starting at 10 tomorrow morning. Mehring Books, the publishing house of the International Committee of the Fourth International, exhibited at the London Book Fair this week. Its stall in London's Olympia Grand hall attracted interest among visitors and exhibitors from around the world. The London Book Fair is the leading publishing trade fair in the English-speaking world and the second-largest worldwide after the Frankfurter Buchmesse. Almost 1,000 companies exhibited from more than 60 countries, with around 29,000 visitors between March 12 and March 14. Mehring Books stand featured the newly released English-language edition of Why Are They Back? Historical falsification, political conspiracy and the return of fascism in Germany; the 30th anniversary edition of The Heritage We Defend: A contribution to the history of the Trotskyist movement; and Agents: The FBI and GPU infiltration of the Trotskyist movement. Christoph Vandreier at the 2019 London Book Fair On the Fairs opening day, World Socialist Web Site International Editorial Coard Chairperson David North appeared at a Meet the Author event at the Mehring Books stand. Book industry professionals from Japan, India and Israel, along with visitors from China, the UK and Canada, were among those who stopped to speak with North. Christoph Vandreier, deputy leader of the Socialist Equality Party (SGP) in Germany, spoke at a Meet the Author event the following day. He explained to those in attendance, Why Are They Back? is a book dealing with how the rise of the far-right in Germany was ideologically and politically prepared. The far-right Alternative for Deutschland (AfD) is now the official opposition party in the Bundestag (German parliament), Vandreier explained. Its MPs include neo-Nazi apologists who have publicly opposed the construction of memorials to European victims of the Holocaust, while they declare their support for the record of German soldiers during the Second World War. A wave of historical falsification in German universities paved the way for such neo-fascistic statements: Professor Jorg Baberowski at Humboldt University in Berlin said things like, Hitler was not vicious. There was not a single academic in Germany or internationally opposing this. Christoph Vandreier signs copy of Why Are They Back A group of students visiting the fair from the United States listened closely as Vandreier discussed how the political struggle of the SGP and its youth movement, the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE), against historical falsification won widespread backing from students in Germany. This received a lot of support, Vandreier said. There is huge opposition to racism and the rise of the far-right in the population. The support for the far-right does not come from below, but from the top. The Mehring Books stand attracted a great deal of attention and interest. While book company executives passed by quickly, en route to business meetings (rights negotiations are the main business of the trade fair), more thoughtful visitors paused to take in the poster-sized illustrated covers for The Heritage We Defend, Agents and Why Are They Back? The association of Mehring Books with the heritage of Trotskyism and its concern with fundamental historical questions was apparent. Among those inquiring on the opening day was the executive vice president of a Japanese publishing house. He was drawn by the book display for Why Are They Back? and stopped to discuss what he described as the dangerous rise of Japanese nationalism. This is a problem not only for Japan. In response, we are seeing the rise of nationalism in China and South Korea. The rubbish of the past is coming back, it seems. David North with publisher Shogo Tejima A Russian publishing executive stopped to look more closely at The Heritage We Defend and David Norths In Defence of Leon Trotsky. He described Trotsky as the greatest of all figures in historynot just in his political accomplishments, which were of course very great, but in his entire personality. He explained that disinformation surrounding Trotskys name meant the understanding of Trotsky among Russians was low. He pointed to the recent Russian television series on Trotsky as an example, opposing its promotion of anti-Semitism. It seems that I have stumbled on something unexpected at the London Book Fair, the Russian publishing executive concluded. A search for socialist exhibitors on the London Book Fair app returned Mehring Books as the only result. Verso (founded by New Left Review in 1970) and Pluto Press (established in 1969 by the International Socialists) describe themselves as radical publishers. In general, their titles reflect the rightward lurch of ex-radical layers among the 1960s middle class, preoccupied with issues of gender, race and sexual orientation, and steeped in postmodernist hostility to philosophical materialism and the working class. On the final day of the London Book Fair, Mehring Books featured a display in defence of WikiLeaks publisher Julian Assange and former US Army soldier and courageous whistle-blower Chelsea Manningjailed again last week for refusing to testify against Assange. The Mehring Books Twitter feed issued the following appeal: Mehring Books, tweeting all day from the London Book Fair to #FreeAssange. Come visit us at stand 2A43. Show your solidarity with a publisher illegally detained in the middle of London for publishing true information to the worlds people! Mehring Books tweets in support of Julian Assange and Chelsea Manning The response was polarised, with many in the corporate publishing world ready to believe the wall of disinformation and lies about Assange and WikiLeaks erected by the mainstream and state-controlled media. A representative from Mehring Books visited the Media Room at the London Book Fair to draw to their attention the Mehring Books initiative. Julian Assange is perhaps the worlds most famous publisher and his fate should be of real concern to those attending the London Book Fair, she explained. This appeal was met with naked hostility, with one senior journalist falsely claiming that Assange was free to leave whenever he chooses and repeatedly asserting that Assange was not being illegally and arbitrarily detained. Despite the disinformation, there were those who responded strongly in Assange and Mannings defence, and willingly posed to have their photos taken. Freedom of speech is one of the most important human rights, without which the world is like a prison, was the statement from one book industry professional, while visitors Anne and Nathalie were proud to speak out: Chelsea has the strength of her convictions. More people should know about this. Its supposed to be the land of the free and the brave. The statements in defence of Assange and Manning were retweeted over 400 times, receiving over 660 likes. Anne and Nathalie showing their support Details on Sundays book launch in London of Why Are They Back?: Sunday, March 17, 2 p.m. Foyles bookshop, Level 6 107 Charing Cross Road, London, WC2H 0DT Tickets available at eventbrite or at the door 5.00 full price2 concession. Israel Defense Forces launched a massive aerial attack on 100 sites in Gaza in the early hours of Friday morning, injuring at least four people in the southern city of Rafah. Hours later, strikes were still pummeling the town of Khan Younis. According to Palestinian witnesses, IDF planes bombed security facilities belonging to Hamas, the bourgeois Islamist group that has controlled the Gaza Strip since winning the Palestinian legislative elections in 2006, as well as 30 sites held by Islamic Jihad, causing significant damage. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the strikes in retaliation for two rockets that set off air raid sirens across Tel Aviv, Israels most populous city. Israels Iron Dome defence system intercepted one of the missiles, while another landed in open space, causing no damage or injuries. Hamas denied any responsibility for the rockets launched against Tel Aviv. It pointed out that the attack took place at the very time when its negotiators were meeting with Egyptian mediators, supported by the United Nations and Qatar, to try to reach an accommodation with Israel to ameliorate the terrible conditions in Gaza due to the crippling 12-year-long blockade by Israel, imposed with the active support of Egypt and President Mahmoud Abbass Fatah-led Palestinian Authority. Such is the determination for negotiations to succeed that Palestinians stopped the night-time protests that were part of the Great March of Return movement, as well as Friday protests at one of the five gathering points demonstrators have used since 30 March 2018. Hamas reportedly made these concessions in response to Israeli demands, transmitted by Egypt, calling for the stopping the coarse tools used by Palestinians after Israel again halted Qatari aid to Gaza. The talks follow the breakdown of an earlier agreement brokered by Egypt in November, following Israels raid on Gaza that triggered renewed fighting. Israel repeatedly broke the agreement, which allowed Qatari payments to Israel for fuel and power as well aid into Gaza. Netanyahu explained at Mondays Likud faction meeting that it was better for Israel to serve as the conduit for aid rather than the PA. Now that we are supervising, we know its going to humanitarian causes, he said. Whoever is against a Palestinian state should be for transferring funds to Gaza because maintaining a separation between the PA in the West Bank and Hamas in Gaza helps prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state. A spokesperson for Gazas interior ministry insisted the rocket fire went against the national consensus and promised to take action against the perpetrators. Two other Palestinian groups, Islamic Jihad and the Popular Resistance Committees, likewise denied responsibility. Daoud Shihab of Islamic Jihad told the Palestinian news agency Quds Network, These accusations are mere lies by the Israeli occupation. Our movement and its military wing the Al-Quds Brigades did not fire any rockets. IDF spokesperson Brigadier-General Ronen Manelis admitted they did not know who had fired the rockets. In the wake of the Israeli air raids, the Palestinians have called off their Friday protests along the Gaza-Israel fence entirely, the first time the marches have been stopped since they were launched nearly a year ago. Netanyahu, for his part, is determined to prevent a large protest planned for 30 March. This date marks one year since the start of the demonstrations demanding the Palestinians right of return to their homes from which they were driven out in 1948-49 and 1967 and the lifting of the illegal siege that has left much of Gaza without power, sanitation, clean water and basic commodities. Israels massive aerial assault on Gaza takes place in the run-up to elections on April 9, with Netanyahu, who has been indicted on multiple charges of corruption, fighting for his political life. His strategy is based on an escalated far-right orientation, including the cultivation of neo-fascist forces both within Israel and internationally, that is shifting official Israeli politics to the right. He has brokered a merger between the fascist Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Power) party and the more established right-wing party of religious Zionists, Jewish Home. This is aimed at securing sufficient support from the ultra-nationalist and religious parties to form another Likud-led coalition under his leadership. In so doing, he has legitimized an organization that traces its roots to the long-outlawed Kach party of Meir Kahane, which the United States declared a terrorist organization. Otzma Yehudit, like Jewish Home, encourages violence against Palestinians, calls for the expulsion of Arabs from Israel and the occupied territories, and advocates a ban on intermarriage or sex between Jews and Arabs. This fascistic outfit could, following its electoral alliance with Jewish Home, win seats in the Knesset and become part of the next government. The two leaders that head the Otzma Yehudit list and could win parliamentary seatsMichael Ben Ari and Itamar Ben Gvirare cofounders of a group implicated in a 2014 arson attack on a school for Jewish and Arab children in Jerusalem. Ben Ari was denied a visa to the US in 2012 as a member of a terrorist organization. Ben Gvir has acknowledged having a picture in his home of Baruch Goldstein, the Kahane supporter who murdered 29 Palestinians at a mosque in Hebron in 1994. While Israels Elections Committee has allowed these Jewish supremacists to run in the elections, it has barred the Arab nationalist Balad Party along with Dr Ofer Cassif, the sole Jewish candidate on the combined Arab list of Communist Hadash and Taal, headed by Ahmed Tibi. They have appealed to the High Court to overturn the decision. At the same time, Netanyahu has forged alliances with far-right and neo-fascist forces and leaders around the world, including Viktor Orban of Hungary, Matteo Salvini of Italy, Sebastian Kurz of Austria, Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines, Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil and, above all, Donald Trump in the US. Accompanying this turn, Netanyahu is whipping up virulent nationalism against the Palestinians, Iran and its regional allies, Syria and Hezbollah in Lebanon, prompting Israels mainstream parties to compete over who is the most ardent defender of Israels security. Netanyahus bourgeois political rivals competed with each other to demonstrate an even more bloodthirsty attitude toward the Palestinians. Education Minister Naftali Bennett of Hayamin Hehadash demanded that Netanyahu draw up plans for the assassination of Hamas leaders. I call on Netanyahu to order that the IDF present the cabinet a plan to defeat Hamas. Benny Gantz, the former general who heads the Kahol Lavan party demanded that the Israeli military take significant and harsh measures to renew its deterrence. Similar statements were issued by other leading Israeli politicians. While competing with Netanyahu, all of them like him, aim to deflect social tensions within Israel outwards. Israel is among the most economically unequal advanced economies in the world and has the highest poverty rate of any country in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). It has seen a growing wave of working class strikes and demonstrations, including a mass protest of thousands of people demanding an investigation into the fatal police shooting of Yehuda Biadga, a mentally unstable Ethiopian-Israeli. Netanyahu has responded to the weekly Palestinian protests along the Gaza-Israel fence with the utmost brutality. The IDF has killed at least 267 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip since March 30 last year and injured 29,000 more. Many of them are disabled for life. The UN Independent Commission of Inquiry that investigated Israels actions in Gaza during the protests stated that they may constitute war crimes or crimes against humanity. A further 60 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, while Israel has lost just two soldiers. The authorities have continually escalated tensions around Al-Aqsa Mosque in East Jerusalem, the third holiest site in Islam, over the last month, sparking repeated protests and demonstrations. On Tuesday, Israeli police sealed off the entrances to Jerusalems Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, following an alleged firebombing of a police station on the site that in fact was caused by children playing with fireworks, leading to scuffles between Palestinian worshippers and the police, injuring at least 10 Palestinians and leading to several arrests. Dreams for Change is a San Diego, California, nonprofit organization founded in May 2009 by Dr. Teresa Smith with the goal of helping families and individuals in need in the aftermath of the Great Recession and to the present. The groups first initiative was the Safe Parking Program, which allowed families and individuals a secure location to sleep in their vehicles for the night. Smith told the WSWS, During the recession, we saw an increase in numbers for first-time poverty for families and individuals, and most of them were falling into or were homeless. We would send them down to the shelters, but most of them would come back to me and tell me that they werent really homeless, but that they had lost their job, and were trying to get back on their feet, but they would currently stay in their car where they are safe. When we would deal with families, what we saw time and time again were more of them falling into homelessness but living in their car. The idea for Dreams for Change was started by graduate students from San Diego State University and the California Western Law School and in its first year helped 350 people, ultimately getting 65 percent of those individuals into secure housing. When we started this back in 2009, we had hoped that our program would be more of a transition, a temporary program, Smith said. We thought it was going to be a few years kind of project. You know, capture those who were hit by the recession. We thought as the economy began to recover, we would hope to see a dwindling in the need for this program, in hopes that this would be going away. But what we really saw was just the opposite happen. As the recession recovered, we actually saw people working, and we were going through a housing crisis at that time, and rents were going through the roof. More people ended up just living in their car. San Diego has a very high cost of living, with the average one-bedroom apartment costing $1,910 a month, as of last December. This is the eighth highest rent in the country, with an increase of 13 percent from the year before, according to the rental service Zumper. The rate for a two-bedroom apartment the same month was $2,500, also up 13 percent. Regarding the exorbitant costs of rent, Smith said, The reality is that wages have remained stagnant, rents are extremely high, and have more than doubled over the last few years. The price for a one-bedroom condo right now is $1,500 and more as they got larger. That number far exceeds what a minimum wage job earner will make over the month. There are also senior citizens, or those that are disabled, only getting a few hundred dollars a month or even less. You are going to have a really tough time finding any kind of housing for that. Room rentals are starting at $800 a month here. Real estate developers have also pushed out affordable housing throughout the city to make way for luxury condos. As Smith explained, We have seen the loss of over 10,000 units for the redevelopment of high-end condos. These were the kind of units that used to assist families who were poor or disabled. In San Diego County especially, many of the vehicular homeless include families, the elderly, and those with disabilities. Many shelters only house single adults and dont provide for those with disabilities, while many more simply cant afford to live elsewhere. Smith told the WSWS that there has been an increase of homeless families and described seeing homeless students in addition to the disabled and the elderly. The rehousing rate has also declined over the last several years. Smith pointed out that three years after the recession around 60 percent of the families she worked with found housing. This had now dropped to some 20 percent. Some families take months to get back on their feet and finding rooms takes so long, she said. You have to deal with paying money to even process applications some places. You have to get on waitlists, too, for some places. Last month, the San Diego City Council repealed a law which punished people for living in their cars. While advocates for the homeless welcome the measure, there are many other laws that penalize the homeless. For example, it is still illegal in San Diego County to live in an oversize vehicle overnight, which includes recreational vehicles (RVs). Despite an increasing number of unsheltered homeless, including those living either in their cars or on the streets, many cities have increasingly fined people for living in vehicles. Of the 187 cities surveyed by the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty, 39 percent had laws which punished people for living in their cars. Since 2006, there has been a 143 percent increase in such laws, according to the Law Center, leading to people getting tickets and, if they fail to pay, having their cars impounded. RVs have to deal with oversized vehicle zoning laws, and cannot be parked between 2 and 6 in the morning, so there is that issue for a lot of people who are living in their RV, Smith explained, adding, Some people either drive around during that time or risk getting ticketed or even towed. It creates a lot of issues here. Smith also spoke about the daily issues the vehicular homeless face. Some have gym memberships and are able to take showers, she said. Others have kids to take to school in the morning and go to their jobs as well. Dreams for Change, she said, tries to provide a sense of normalcy for them. For many vehicular homeless, fast food is the only nutrition they can get. The park has a refrigerator and a grill so people can prepare meals. We have found one of the most important things is having a safe place for individuals to sleep, Smith said. You hear of individuals sleeping with one eye open, afraid of getting knocked on and harassed by the police. If you have a safe place to sleep it allows peace of mind for things we take for granted, but mostly its a small step to stabilization. According to a recent report by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) more than 550,000 Americans experienced homelessness on any given night last year. An increasing number of the homeless are living in their cars to have some semblance of shelter. San Diego County also has the fourth highest homeless population in the US this year, according to the same report from the HUD. With an estimated 8,576 homeless on any given night, the San Diego region trails behind only Seattle/King County in Washington state, Los Angeles County, and New York City. The report stated that around 5,000 members of San Diegos homeless are unsheltered, living in the street, in a vehicle or a self-made structure like a tent. The remaining 3,500 homeless were sheltered at the time of the study, including those in emergency shelters, safe havens and transitional housing. This number is an underestimate, however, as the study did not include those living in RVs and some residents in shelters. Experts say the actual number could be as high as 9,220 people. Statewide, California has the highest homeless population at 129,972 individuals, some 24 percent of the countrys entire homeless. The reasons for the statistics are not hard to find. With the statewide minimum wage now set at $12 an hour, many workers and their families find themselves unable to afford a basic standard of living. Considering many of the jobs available are part-time, low wage, and offer little or nothing in the way of health benefits and other securities, many fall into destitution in the richest state in the richest country in the world. The WSWS also spoke to Anthony, a 52-year-old worker originally from Louisiana who has worked several jobs, including security and at the San Diego Union-Tribune, before he was laid off. He now earns money cutting grass. Anthony had heard of Dreams for Change from a case worker who met him while he was living in a park. He told the WSWS, It was a big help for me because it was an opportunity to avoid getting so many tickets and citations. I have a brother who lives on the streets right now, but I am a little more lucky that I have an RV to live in for the time being. Because of a past criminal record Anthony stated that it was difficult to find consistent work. Family problems and lack of employment ultimately forced Anthony to live in his RV. Living in a RV is hard, man, said Anthony, Neighbors get mad at neighbors all the time for having their RVs parked out front, but imagine people like myself that come and go across town trying to park an RV? People get mad about these things and they call the police on me. He added, Being homeless in an RV is like a chess game, you know? Sometimes you get lucky and sleep good, but sometimes they find you and then youve got to deal with finding money to get your vehicle out of the impound. You get scared of just dealing with it. You cant sleep. I shed tears, man. I thank my girl for being there and believing in me. So I cry about these things. Because deep down I just know I am going to be ok. Just gotta deal with this first. Reporting teams from the World Socialist Web Site interviewed students who protested in countries around the world on Friday for action on climate change. Britain Ladan, 18, who had left classes at her school in Oxfordshire, told the WSWS, Me and my friend really care about climate change and have wanted to do something about it for so long. If we dont do something soon, we wont have another opportunity. Asked why so many young people had come to the demonstration, Ladans 16-year-old friend Lucy said, A lot is due to social media. Its much easier to access and find an answer. There are so many accounts that advocate doing something about what is wrong. People are realizing that capitalism and money arent the most important things anymore. Capitalism is responsible for climate change because capitalists want to find the cheapest solution to sell things to people. Four students from the Tunbridge Wells Bennett Memorial School held up banners declaring, We are the revolution for the solution and Change the government. Not the climate. They told the WSWS that they thought climate change is the biggest problem for young people. It is also political, one student noted. We need to change the system and the approach to climate change. Because right now there is no real policy. "What capitalism doesn't get is there is no economy on a dead planet" (UK) Our school was telling us to write [about climate change], not strike, but we decided to strike. It makes a difference to come here. Because we are all together. Young people were portrayed as apathetic to politics but now they are finding a way. This planet is one thing we have all got in common. And it is being ruined by capitalism for the sake of profit. It is going downhill so quickly. They dont care about wealth for ordinary people. Its got to the point where money, profit margins are what matter. Its not about the people that work or the people who do the production that matters anymore. One of the students declared, The two-party system is not working anymore. Another said, Im proposing a democratic form of socialism, where there isnt the one percent that controls 60 percent of the wealth anymore. Three other students had also come to the demonstration together. One, holding a Kill Capitalism. Kill Climate Change banner, explained that he had attended the previous demonstration in the UK on February 15 and wanted to stop the slide forward to catastrophe. "Capitalism kills the planet. Kill capitalism! and Open borders for climate Refugees" (UK) His friend explained that recently MPs had held a climate change debate and only 30 were present. It was the first debate for two years and no one turned up. It shows they do not care. One of the reasons governments dont care about climate change is that they are lobbied and funded by oil corporations. We can change things through protests but also calling for public ownership instead of private property. Today is a good way of making change. Another of the students insisted though that There is little you can do individually. It comes down to international agreements and cooperation with other countries. His friend said, Its much more about changing ownership. People realize that the system has got worse and seen the rise of right-wing extremism. Its about controlling corporations and putting them into the hands of the people. France Lys, a high-school student in Paris, said, We came to the protest to show that the youth have a chance to change things and that we want things to actually get donenot just more promoting the governments image. There is pressure from lobbies. There are fake solutions put in place. Hybrid carsthats great, because they dont pollute in the cities, but the batteries still pollute a lot I want actions to happen on a world scale, across Europe or the whole world. "Some dream for a bank [banque]. We dream for icebergs [banquise]" (Paris) Today in France there are 280,000 soldiers. They are deployed throughout the world. I find that France has a sphere of action that is far too large. The wars are for private interests, whether they be financial or political, and not for humanitarian concerns. Thats what I find dangerous. Thats also what Im afraid of for the climate. Its the private interests which buy politics and power. Thats why I came today. I think it is totally unhelpful to tax products from gas usage. People living in rural areas have no other means of transport than their car. Parisians drive to work but could do without them. A high school student from Lycee Saint-Louis in Paris said: Were not going to revolutionize the environment through a petrol tax. We have to change everything; the society, the economic model that is made for the profits of the banks and capitalism. I think that its by changing the economic system fundamentally that were going to save the planet. At the moment we are not deciding things based on saving humanity but on saving profit. "Our inaction today is a crime for tomorrow" (Paris) As far as I see it the Paris agreement was a big show to give the impression we were doing something. Asked about Macrons announcement of compulsory military service in France, the student said: Go fight for Macron? Absolutely not. Nor for France. I dont consider myself French but a human being. My only region is that of humanity. The service should not be for the military but to teach us things like first aid. Germany Arvid and Finn are physics students at the Free University of Berlin. Arvid said, I am enthusiastic about the mobilization that has taken place in recent weeks for climate protection. But I think its very difficult to tackle this great task of climate protection with the current economic system where everything is designed to compete. In this system, companies or nations fight for themselves. Capitalism is not the best way to meet this challenge. Finn added that every effort to protect the climate is considered a competitive disadvantage in this system. Liz, Pascal, Valerie and George are geography students at Humboldt University. Pascal said, Climate policy concerns us all. We are natural scientists, geographers. The politicians have slept on this for years, even though we know the limit of global warming of 1.5 degrees set by science to prevent a natural disaster. We cant accept that. Its the generation taking to the streets today that will be massively affected. It will change all our lives. But I think we can still turn the rudder around. But we only have 10 years left and that is an extremely short period. Students protest in Berlin George said he was not opposed to the capitalist system, but that it would need to be restructured in order to address the problem of climate change, so that it was not focused on growth. We have lost about a quarter of our humus soil in the last 25 years, Pascal said. Nobody from government politics is interested in that. It is dramatic and we see the dangers everywhere. Biodiversity continues to decline. We must act now, at all levels. United States The International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) at the University of Michigan spoke with students and youth in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Marisol, a high school junior at Community High School, said, I feel that we are living with a cloud over our heads. The corporations and politicians are totally unwilling to change anything. The working class just needs to wake up and see our power. Issac and Marisol at the University of Michigan in the United States She added, Its not the fault of the people at the bottom, who have nothing. Its the rich and the corporations and the politicians who are responsible. Isaac agreed the capitalist system was the root of the problem of climate change: We need to break out of the two-party system for sure, they are both for the rich. Nissa and Isaac, who are students at the University of Michigan, came to the protest because they think climate change is among the most pressing issues facing the working class today. Nissa explained, I believe this is a systemic issue, meaning the capitalist system. And in order to solve it we need to understand that. The world elites are so far from fixing this issue, and they cant. Nothing has been done, its actually getting worse. Isaac added, I think we both agree that the only people who can solve this is ordinary people, the working class. At New York University, IYSSE campaigners attended several protests around the city. Lucie, a New York University student majoring in European and Mediterranean studies, said, I was inspired by marches in Europe and we need to show our support. We dont have a planet B. We are not seeing the change that is needed. The politicians are not changing laws that were written before this research was done, and they act like it is too hard to change now. When asked if she thought change was possible under capitalism, she added, No! We need radical changes now. The alternative needs to become the norm. Lucies friend, Audrey, said, I dont understand why everyone is not here. We see that this issue hits some people harder, but it affects everyone. The politicians are just ignoring us and pretending that everything is fine. An IYSSE campaign team in New Orleans interviewed Darryl. He said, I think this growing worldwide movement driven by the youth is really key in getting something to happen. I think we need to have a complete change in policy on energy issues and keep oil and gas in the ground and move rapidly toward solar and renewable resources. When asked what it would take to implement these policies, Darryl said, I think its going to take a mass political movement. Ive seen the Green New Deal but it needs to go a whole lot farther than what they're talking about. Canada A WSWS team interviewed students in Montreal. In response to a question about the inaction of governments around the world, one student replied: We have to change them, but they all end up the same. His friend added that everyone has to oppose their governments, otherwise, the consequences would be that there will be nothing left on our planet in a couple of generations. Explaining why he was protesting, Theo, a high school student, replied, We are here to protest against climate change, because governments do nothing, and big business does nothing. Emphasizing the international character of the protests, the WSWS reporter asked another group of students what they thought about its significance. In response, they pointed to their sign, which said F**k capitalism. Whats needed is a system change, one student said, adding, Its good to see all people, students, people who have kids, old people, coming together to protest. Fanny, a student from Switzerland, said she had already participated in similar demonstrations in her own country. Recognizing the importance of the international character of the demonstrations, she stressed the need for global political action, adding that attempts to present climate change as an individual problem must be countered. Governments dodge responsibility for this by presenting it [environmental action] as an individual issue. Workers and young people across the world continue to speak out against the jailing of whistleblower Chelsea Manning, who courageously refused to testify in a secret grand jury against WikiLeaks publisher Julian Assange. WikiLeaks and Assange brought to light the war crimes of US imperialism in Iraq with the publication in 2010 of the Collateral Murder video, among other leaked documents of US war crimes. Students and young people spoke out at demonstrations and meetings across the US sponsored by the World Socialist Web Site and the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE). The IYSSE in New York held a rally Thursday on the steps of New York Universitys Kimmel Center to demand freedom for Manning. The rally was attended by students and other supporters of Manning and Assange. I support Chelsea Manning, said Phoebe, a drama therapy graduate student in NYU. I support her courage as a whistleblower. She deserves justice! Anna I support Chelsea Manning and Julian Assange for many reasons, Anna explained. I think it is so cruel what has been done to both of them. It is difficult to imagine the hardship they are going through. We must ask, where will this go? If they start imprisoning truthtellers, who is next? What about my family or other families? People will keep speaking up and we cant wait until its too late. Chintan, another NYU student, noted, Its important that we are covering Chelsea Mannings arrest. No one else was covering it except the IYSSE and the World Socialist Web Site. If we hadnt covered it many people wouldnt have noticed. Gandhi, a freshman at NYU, said he attended the IYSSE rally to defend Manning and Assange because if you just sit in silence and ignore it then we are giving our permission to the government to hide things. Gandhi added, Not only that, but if we ignore Chelsea Manning then were ignoring the innocent lives massacred by the US government. Gandhi At San Diego State University (SDSU) in California, students expressed their outrage over the attacks on Manning and Assange and demanded their immediate release. Linda, a psychology major at SDSU, said, I think its imperative that workers and students come to the defense of Chelsea Manning and demand her release. The fact that she is being jailed for uncovering the murderous war crimes of the US and refusing to testify against Julian Assange is disturbing and should concern everyone, Linda added. Her imprisonment has far-reaching consequences and implications for us all and for anyone willing to put their life on the line for exposing the truth about the US military apparatus. Linda Angel, a political science graduate at SDSU, noted the complicity of the Australian government in the attacks on Assange. One of the things that stuck out to me, Angel said, is the duty that the Australian government has towards protecting its citizens is not being enforced. If it was any other citizen [aside from Julian Assange] that was held captive, the government has a diplomatic right to bring him home. Because the Australian government is in the pocket of the British and American governments, its not going to do that. Theres this notion that in the US you at least have some legal rightsyou get a lawyer, you get your day in courtbut what were seeing now [with Chelsea Manning] is that crumbling, Angel added. If youre deemed an enemy of the state, the government isnt going to protect those rights. You can be an American citizen but if youre deemed an enemy combatant abroad, you can be killed by drone strike, no questions asked. Due process is simply a group of henchmen in the executive branch deciding your fate without any proof or transparency. Students and workers in Portland, Oregon, also spoke out in defense of Manning and Assange this week. Blake, an engineering student and IYSSE member at Portland State University (PSU), explained why he supports Chelsea Manning, Julian Assange and WikiLeaks. By revealing the crimes that governments committed, they are the criminals? It doesnt make any sense. In other contexts, exposing crimes is a good thing that is offered protection. While the US government is alleging WikiLeaks collaborated with the Russian government in the 2016 elections, Blake said it is an absurd argument that goes against what WikiLeaks is about. They are for freedom of information and the truth, and thats what they got out. Blake then explained how the defense of whistleblowers and democratic rights is inseparable from the struggles of the working class. It makes it harder to fight for what you need and believe in when you dont know whats going on, he noted. You cant fight for something you dont know about. Those democratic rights are your tool. A food worker at the PSU cafeteria, who wished to stay anonymous, stopped at an IYSSE display table Tuesday and said, The government is so hypocritical. Assange and Manning are representing the principles that the United States was founded upon, for democracy and truth and opposition to tyrannical governments. The WSWS has also been receiving letters from readers about why they supported the defense of Assange and Manning. Tamlyn wrote, FREE CHELSEA! Brave protector of government transparency and press freedom! I admire you, Chelsea! STAY STRONG. THE PEOPLE ARE WITH YOU. Chelsea Manning is being punished for telling the people the truth about what is being done in their name, Josh noted. She must go free! Jayantha wrote in to explain his support for the campaign to free Manning and Assange: Chelsea Manning sacrificed herself in refusing to testify against Julian Assange and it is inspiring for the working class and youth to take the fight to free Chelsea Manning and Julian Assange, which is also defending the democratic rights for the working class around the world. I am contributing to the IYSSE and SEP to help organise rallies and meetings to free Chelsea Manning and Julian Assange. Your characterization of Julian being a class war warrior is correct, Ron explained, because his persecution is the result of his publication of historical truth which is vital for the working class in understanding the way forward. A united front with organisations and individuals who want to defend democratic rights and freedom of expression will find a strong response in the working class. Your exposure of the fake lefts has been very powerful! On Friday, President Donald Trump vetoed legislation passed by Congress to overturn the national emergency he had declared on February 15, in which he directed military resources to be used for the building of a wall along the US-Mexico border. The emergency declaration is an unprecedented assertion of unilateral executive power and an attack on the Constitution's framework of "separation of powers," which gives Congress the exclusive authority to appropriate public funds and provide the resources to carry out federal actions. The significance of the veto was underscored by a statement Trump made to the far-right Breitbart website in an interview published on Wednesday. Denouncing the left for being vicious, Trump declared, I can tell you I have the support of the police, the support of the military, the support of the Bikers for TrumpI have the tough people, but they dont play it toughuntil they go to a certain point, and then it would be very bad, very bad. Trumps statement to Breitbart can be taken as nothing other than a threat and incitement to violence by his fascistic base. Under conditions of protracted political crisis within the state apparatus and growing social unrest, Trump is following a fascistic playbook. He is seeking to mobilize support outside of the normal constitutional and political channels and largely independent of both traditional big-business parties, basing himself on the military, police and far-right elements. Trump has clearly welcomed the opportunity provided by the conflict over border wall funding to place himself in opposition to Congress, the Democratic Party and factions within his own Republican Party. He did nothing to avert the defection of 12 Republican senators, who joined all 47 Democrats on Thursday to pass the resolution of disapproval that had been passed last month by the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives. Instead, Trump intervened personally on Wednesday to scuttle a compromise measure sponsored by Utah Republican Mike Lee that would have allowed the emergency declaration to stand in exchange for altering the 1976 National Emergencies Act to give Congress more oversight over future presidential emergency actions. Acting with the knowledge that that the two-thirds vote in each house required to override a presidential veto will not be mustered, Trump is counting on the cowardice and complicity of the Democrats to advance his authoritarian agenda. The appeal to violence has already had very real and tragic consequences. Trump posted a tweet linking to the Breitbart edition with his interview late Thursday, shortly after reports began to emerge of the massacre of Muslims at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, which has left 49 people dead. In the early morning hours of Friday, as details of the scale of the massacre in New Zealand mounted, Trump deleted the tweet. Among the details was the fact that the suspect arrested in the shooting had published an online manifesto in which he praised Trump as a symbol of renewed white identity. While there exists today no mass base for fascism, Trumps efforts to create such a base must be taken as a serious warning to the working class. The America First movement of the 1930s that Trump seeks to evoke was pro-Nazi. Trump has, from his praise for the Charlottesville neo-Nazis, to his attacks on asylum seekers in the run-up to the 2018 elections as invaders, to his incitements to violence against his political opponents, promoted right-wing, racist and anti-Semitic forces. Among those encouraged by Trumps ravings was the fascist gunman who murdered 11 worshippers at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh last October. Both he and the New Zealand murderer echoed Trumps rhetoric by referring to immigrants as invaders. Beginning with his State of the Union Address last month, Trump has directly invoked the central theme of fascism, hatred of socialism, identifying his 2020 reelection campaign with a global crusade against socialism. Trump is not some exception or aberration. He is the embodiment of the putrefaction of American democracy and the criminality of the ruling corporate-financial oligarchy. This is the result of a decades-long process of decline of American capitalism, which is at the center of an unprecedented crisis of world capitalism. Buffeted by insoluble economic contradictions, the growth of inter-imperialist and geopolitical conflicts, and, above all, the resurgence of the class struggle, the American ruling class, like its counterparts all over the world, feels itself besieged and threatened. It is alarmed by the spread of militant strikes and protests by workers in the US and around the world, and the growing support for socialism, particularly among young people. That is why all over the world the ruling classes are turning to dictatorial methods of rule and bringing forward far-right and fascistic forces: from Macrons embrace of the Nazis wartime ally Petain in France, to the German grand coalition governments elevation of the fascistic Alternative for Germany, to the installation of far-right governments in Italy, Poland, Hungary, Austria, India and Israel. The defeat of fascism and defense of democratic rights in the US cannot be conducted through the Democratic Party. It has, no less than the Republicans, presided over the plundering of the economy to enrich the corporate elite as well as the carrying out of massive spying, unending war, internet censorship and the destruction of working-class jobs, living standards, education, health care and the environment. The conflict within the state is a conflict within the ruling class, with the Democrats expressing the opposition to Trump of significant sections of the ruling elite and the military and intelligence apparatus, largely centered on foreign policy. At the same time, the Democrats are terrified of the growth of the class struggle and determined to avoid any actions that destabilize the state apparatus and encourage the growth of social opposition from below. This explains the vacillation of the Democrats, from denunciations of Trump as a Russian agent and traitor to pleas for the president to work with them in a shared right-wing agenda, including strengthening border security. When Trump first threatened in January to declare a national emergency to build his wall, during the 35-day government shutdown, the New York Times, which is closely allied with the Democratic Party, endorsed the proposal as a way out of the budget crisis. Democratic Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi urged Trump to declare a national emergency against gun violence. Later, Pelosi shifted to denouncing Trumps declaration as shredding the Constitution. Yet this week she declared that she was opposed to impeachment unless there was a compelling and overwhelming offenseas though upending the Constitution and establishing a presidential dictatorship does not constitute high crimes and misdemeanors. She opposed impeachment, Pelosi said, because it was divisive. Not a single prominent Democratic official has called for Trump to be removed from office for usurping the powers of Congress and asserting dictatorial powers. The Democrats want to contain the struggle against Trump within the confines of a palace coup. The working class must intervene into the political crisis as an independent revolutionary force, linking the defense of democratic rights to the struggle against war and social inequality. The entire history of the 20th century shows that there can be no successful struggle against fascism without a conscious political struggle against its sourcecapitalism. That requires the establishment of the political independence of the working class from all of the parties and politicians of the ruling class and the forging of the international unity of workers in the struggle for world socialism. On Wednesday, an edition of the right-wing newspaper Tylko Polska with a front page article on How to spot a Jew was distributed at the Polish Sejm (parliament). In the manner of Nazi-style anti-Semitic propaganda, the article listed names, anthropological features, expressions, appearances, character traits, methods of operation and disinformation activities which allegedly allowed for identification of Jewish people. A parliamentary deputy from the center-right Poland Comes First party denounced the distribution of the newspaper as an absolute scandal and described it as filthy texts, as if taken from Nazi newspapers. Following a public outcry internationally, the Sejm Chancellery, which had initially refused to take action, declared that the newspaper would be removed from kiosks at the Polish parliament. There was nothing accidental about the distribution of this far-right newspaper at the Sejm. Its very publication was part of what can only be described as a state-sponsored witch-hunt of Holocaust historians. Next to the article How to spot a Jew, the Tylko Polska newspaper ran the headline, Attack on Poland at a conference in Paris, and a picture of the historian and sociologist Jan Gross, who has written extensively on pogroms against Jews by Poles. What the newspaper described as an attack on Poland was, in fact, a far-right assault on a Holocaust studies conference in Paris on February 2122. Hosted by the prestigious Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Sciences Sociales (EHESS), the conference was entitled The new Polish school of Holocaust history. It was disrupted by a group of some 30 Polish anti-Semites and nationalists, affiliated with the far-right newspaper Gazeta Polska, who shouted anti-Semitic slurs at the conference presenters (among them Jan Gross) and denounced them for spreading anti-Polish sentiments. In the weeks leading up the conference, its organizers in Paris had received threatening phone calls and mail. To ensure security, the conference started behind closed doors on its first day. According to French media reports, the Polish government-controlled Institute of National Memory (IPN) was effectively present and expressed itself without condemning what was going on. The Polish ambassador in Paris also retweeted criticism of the conference by the IPN along nationalist lines on his Twitter account. While the EHESS later published a statement denouncing the assault by Polish nationalists as an attack on freedom of speech and academic freedom, Polands vice-prime minister Jarosaw Gowin tried to downplay the incident in an official letter. He denied that the slurs had an openly anti-Semitic character and denounced the criticism of the Law and Justice (PiS) government by conference participants who described it as a regime as not being protected by the freedom of academic expression. Apart from Tylko Polska, numerous right-wing and pro-PiS publications have denounced the conference. The Wiadomosci, for instance, called it a festival of anti-Polish slander. The essentially state-backed, far-right attack on the Paris conferencean unprecedented event in academic life in recent European historywas the product of a massive campaign in Poland against all those working on the history of the Holocaust and Polish anti-Semitism. It is aimed at ensuring that the ongoing state-sponsored, systematic rewriting and falsification of the history of Polish nationalism and the crimes of Nazism goes unopposed. The legal framework for this campaign was created with the Holocaust bill, passed by the Polish parliament and president in early 2018, which criminalizes speech and writings addressing crimes by Poles against the Jews. In the past few years, an unknown number of lesser-known historians and students have been victimized by this campaign. Now, it is openly targeting the best-known figures in Polish-Jewish historiography: Dariusz Stola, the head of the POLIN museum of Polish-Jewish history, and Barbara Engelking, the co-founder and head of the Center for Research on the Annihilation of the Jews (Centrum Badan nad Zagada Zydow ). Both are scholars of world renown and are heading institutions that are among the most significant internationally in the research into and public education about the Holocaust. In February, the Polish government announced it would not support the extension of Dariusz Stolas contract, which is running out at the end of this year, and opened a competition for the post of director of the museum. A petition denouncing the governments attempt to remove Stola from his position was signed by over 4,500 people. Stola announced that he would reapply for the position. The moves against Stola came after official criticism of a special exhibition at the POLIN museum, held last year, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the anti-Semitic campaign waged by the Polish Stalinist government in 196869. In response to student protests in March 1968 in Poland, and amid a mass general strike in France, the Polish Stalinist government, fearing that the working class struggles in Western Europe would spread to Poland and undermine its rule, unleashed a vicious anti-Semitic campaign against the student leaders. The Stalinist press depicted the protests as an intervention of Jewish outside forces. Within the following two years, at least some 13,000 people, among them numerous survivors of the Holocaust and some of the countrys leading academics and scientists, were forced to leave the country and give up Polish citizenship. The exhibition, which openly raised parallels to the current promotion of anti-Semitism by the PiS government, was viewed by some 116,000 people. The POLIN museum itself has been attended by well over a million people since it opened its doors in 2014. The Polish ministry of culture, which is among the main sponsors of the POLIN museum, refused to support the exhibition financially. Polands vice-minister of culture attacked the exhibit at the POLIN, falsely claiming that no Poles had been involved in this campaign. Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, who marched alongside far-right forces last November, said that Poland had nothing to apologize for with regard to 1968 and that the events were entirely the responsibility of an outside great power, that is, the Soviet Union, which had occupied the country. Parallel to the campaign against Stola and with perhaps even greater ferocity, the government and right-wing media have attacked Barbara Engelking and her Center for Research on the Annihilation of the Jews. The attacks started after the publication of an extensive, two-volume book on the Fates of Jews in select districts of occupied Poland, edited by Engelking and Jan Grabowski and published under the aegis of the Center. The book, based on years of research, details the fate that Jews suffered including those hiding in Nazi-occupied Poland. It addresses the role of the Polish Blue police in hunting down Jews and handing them over to the Nazis or murdering them on their own, as well as anti-Semitic pogroms perpetrated by Polish nationalists. The study found that most of the 200,000 Polish Jews who were murdered outside the Nazi concentration camps were killed directly by or with the help of Poles. The book and its editors were subject to an intense attack, spearheaded by the IPN and the Polish Anti-Defamation League, an extremist nationalist outfit for academics closely affiliated with PiS. Historian Jan Grabowski has pointed out that many of the criticisms by members of the IPN were based on notorious anti-Semitic pamphlets. Engelking has since been removed by the government from her position as the head of the International Council for the State museum of the former concentration and death camp Auschwitz-Birkenau. To their credit, none of the historians are prepared to give in to the massive pressure by the state and affiliated far-right forces. Stola has denounced the attacks on himself and published a statement, on behalf of POLIN, to defend Engelking and her research Center. Grabowski has sued the Polish Anti-Defamation League before a Warsaw court for defamation. He stated: The line of action taken against Engelking and myself is designed to set an example. Polish teachers of history have told me that they are now under pressure to only teach according to the ideology of the government. Students of history and doctoral students openly say that they do not want to tackle burning topics because they fear for their careers. The PiS government is spearheading what is an international campaign to systematically bolster fascist forces through state support and through targeted historical falsifications. These policies have created a right-wing and dangerous political climate which increasingly resembles that of the 1930s. At the beginning of this year, the mayor of Gdansk, Pawe Adamowicz, who had been an outspoken critic of the promotion of anti-Semitism and xenophobia by the PiS government, was assassinated. Later that month, some 100 fascists were allowed to march at the site of the Auschwitz death camp, where over 1 million Jews were murdered by the Nazis during the Holocaust. In February, the offices of the Polish political and human rights activist Pawe Kasprczak were targeted with Nazi graffiti, including the words Red Swine, and Jude raus. This author also recommends: Polish government seeks to criminalize mention of Polish crimes during the Holocaust [30 January 2018] The POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews in Warsaw [9 January 2017] Polish PiS government encourages anti-Semitism [29 August 2016] As workers launch strikes against the Algerian military dictatorship, and millions of workers and youth pour into the streets in cities across the country, the petty-bourgeois Socialist Workers Party (PST) is seeking to derail the movement. While the struggle poses the need for the working class to take power, the PST is promoting illusions that Algerias bloodstained regime will reform itself. The National Liberation Front (FLN) regime has announced it would suspend elections and that the figurehead president, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, will only step down after the protests are over. It is a sign that the regime intends to make no concessions to the workers and youth, and intends to put in a new figurehead for the same corrupt regime. However, an article published on the web site of the New Anti-capitalist Party (NPA), the French affiliate of the PST, hails this maneuver as a first step back by the regime, to be turned into a victory against the system. The announcement of Bouteflikas retirement is the result of the fantastic popular movement that is underway, PST member Kader Leoni writes, adding, But we havent won yet! Bouteflika has announced his retirement but hes still president! Leoni demands a self-reform of the FLN regime by rewriting Algerias constitution: The promise of a Second Republic and a new constitution risk being indefinitely delayed or, even worse, of serving to put the regime back together again without any democratic improvements but, on the contrary, stepped-up free market reforms demanded by key sections of the bourgeoisie and the army, together with imperialist powers, notably France. We must continue the movement, obtain Bouteflikas immediate departure and impose a new constituent assembly based on delegates elected during the mobilization, its self-organization and the ongoing mass strikes. This call for rewriting the constitution aims to demobilize workers and youth, subordinate them to the regime, and cut them off from the growing international movement in the working class. There are mass yellow vest protests by French workers, ongoing mass protests and strikes in Sudan, and strikes across North Africa. Teachers strikes have spread on five continents, and mass opposition is rising among autoworkers, expressed in the Mexican maquiladoras strike this year, the largest in North America in 20 years. Instead of fighting to link their struggles to those of their class brothers and sisters internationally, the PST wants Algerian workers and youth to elect a team of lawyers and patiently wait for them to work out a new constitution in talks with the FLN dictatorship. The notion that this corrupt regime will reform itself is absurd. It oversaw the slaughter of hundreds of thousands of people during the bloody 1992-2002 Algerian Civil War, to crush the Islamist parties and keep power after the Islamists won the 1991 legislative elections. Top FLN officials monopolize hundreds of billions of dollars of gas export revenues, buying real estate in Paris and beyond from offshore bank accounts while leaving millions in poverty. Youth unemployment is now at close to 30 percent, and more than two thirds of the population is under 30. A report by the Algerian League for the Defense of Human Rights in 2015 found that 80 percent of the national wealth is held by 10 percent of the population, while some 14 million people live in abject poverty at less than $1.50 per day. The way forward is a revolutionary struggle against the FLN on a socialist and internationalist program for the working class to take power. The riches plundered from Algerian working people by the FLN regime must be expropriated and placed under the democratic control of the workers, as part of a broad struggle of the working class internationally against capitalism. This requires a struggle not only against Bouteflika, but also against parties like the PST that defend the regime while masquerading as its socialist opponents. The role of the PST While it cynically claims it is fighting the regime in order to carry out a democratic reform, the PST is consciously hostile to a struggle for the independent interests of the working class and to build a revolutionary leadership among the growing masses of insurgent workers. It functions as a barely disguised wing of the regime, seeking to ward off the threat from below. The PST issues vague calls for electing a Constituent Assembly based on the movement, knowing very well that right-wing and free-market forces are trying to intervene in it. These include Mouwatana, led by a former prime minister under Bouteflika, and a variety of businessmen with grievances with the top FLN leadership. In a March 7 essay titled Algeria: from a crisis of rule to a political crisis, PST member Hocine Belalloufi notes that those rallying to the protests include members of the FCE [Business Leaders Forum] and FLN mayors and members. These are the forces Belalloufi wants to decide how to re-write Algerias constitution. He adds that the movement has no elaborated program, is not organized, has no spokespeople, and even less of a known and identified leadership. However, these weaknesses constitute, paradoxically, at this stage, [its] strong points, and do not hinder the movement from taking initiative, going on the offensive and winning adherents and supporters. Belalloufi calls for an alliance with Louisa Hanounes Workers Party (PT), which is widely mocked by the protesters as a tool of the FLN regime, and Algerias unionspro-government bureaucracies set up by the FLN itself after independence from France in 1962. Belalloufi writes: The left wing of the popular camp proposes for its part, in a more or less coherent way, a solution from below giving the people a voice and immediately re-establishes it in its role of sole sovereign via the perspective of electing a Constituent Assembly. The PT and PST believe it should be tasked with determining what type of regime to put in place, immediately proclaiming democratic liberties and satisfying without delay the social aspirations and demands of the workers and poor. The PST proposes to unify the democratic, anti-free market and anti-imperialist forces, bringing together all parties, unions and social movements sharing this perspective. This amounts to a promise that, by proclaiming themselves to be democratic, the regime and its cronies, against whom the masses are rebelling, will oversee a historic flowering of democracy. The sharpest warnings must be made: the PST and its allies are tools of the regime and will defend it ruthlessly against a threat from below. Algerias pro-government unions have tail-ended the movement; a few called strikes in education after teachers organized them via social media, but only to try to keep control of the situation. As for the PT and the PST, they speak for layers of academics, journalists and union functionaries whose privileges depend upon their close ties to the FLN regime, and who fear a revolution against it. The PSTs nationalist orientation to the FLN is rooted in the class interests of its petty bourgeois base and justified by the anti-Trotskyist theories of the Pabloite tendency of which it is a part. Its precursor, the Revolutionary Communist Group (GCR), was founded in 1974 by Algerians sympathetic to the NPAs forerunner, the Revolutionary Communist League (LCR), the French section of the Pabloite movement that broke from Trotskyism and the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI) in 1953. The historic founder of this tendency, Michel Pablo, insisted that the FLN, which took power after the Algerian war of independence against France, was one expressionalong with Stalinist and other bourgeois nationalist organizationsof a new road to socialism that did not require the building of Marxist parties in the working class. Though the FLN represented not the working class but the Algerian bourgeoisie, Pablo insisted that its rule was leading irresistibly into a profound socialist revolution. On this fraudulent basis, Pablo worked for several years in the FLN regime. Over decades of deepening integration into ruling circles, the PST in Algeria, like the NPA in France, emerged as a middle class constituency for order. Both maintain empty references to anti-capitalism or socialism in their party names, but their politics are reactionary. Perhaps the clearest indication is the fact that, while the PST postures as anti-imperialist, it is allied to the NPA which, after the workers uprisings in Egypt and Tunisia of 2011, publicly called for French imperialism to arm Islamist proxies in bloody wars for regime change in Libya and Syria. The lessons of the Egyptian Revolution The lessons of the revolutionary experiences in Egypt are a particularly sharp warning as to the dangers posed to the workers by the PSTs counter-revolutionary role today. Events of Egypt in 2011-2013 confirmed tragically, in the negative, the correctness of the strategy of Permanent Revolution elaborated by the founder of the Fourth International, Leon Trotsky. In countries of a belated capitalist development and former colonies, such as Egypt and Algeria, Trotsky insisted, basic democratic tasks that in previous epochs were achieved in bourgeois revolutions can only be achieved by the struggle of the working class, leading behind it the oppressed masses, to take political power and establish a workers state as part of the fight for socialism internationally. While the working class of Egypt fought heroically to bring down the Mubarak regime, it was blocked from taking power in its own hands. The Revolutionary Socialists (RS) party played a decisive role in this process. While using left phraseology to deceive the masses, the RS promoted different bourgeois factions at different stages of events. It initially claimed the military-led junta that took power after the fall of Hosni Mubarak would initiate democratic reforms, then supporting the Muslim Brotherhood on the same basis in 2012; finally, in 2013, it promoted bourgeois allies of the army as it prepared a coup. The one consistent feature of its maneuvers was a virulent hostility to the building of an independent revolutionary party of the working class to fight for power. The RS thus helped pave the way for General Abdel Fattah al-Sisis coup, the massacre of thousands of workers, and the re-establishment of a bloody military dictatorship in Egypt. The PST, desperate to conserve the privileges it has acquired over decades under the Algerian dictatorship, is pursuing a course no less reactionary than that of the RS. The emergence of Algerian workers and youth in revolutionary struggle against the FLN and its Pabloite defenders is a historic vindication of the ICFIs decades-long struggle for Trotskyism against Pabloism. Revolutionary struggles are rapidly emerging on the order of the day. The key task in Algeria is building a section of the ICFI in struggle against Pabloism, to arm the working class with a genuinely revolutionary perspective and leadership. Three workers were killed in the early morning of Monday, February 4, when the Canadian Pacific Rail train that they were working on derailed in the Rocky Mountains near the Alberta-British Columbia border. Conductor Dylan Paradis, locomotive engineer Andrew Dockrell, and conductor trainee Daniel Waldenberger-Bulmer perished in the accident. A preliminary investigation undertaken by the Transportation Safety Board determined that the train, which was hauling grain, had been parked temporarily on a steep grade with air brakes applied at Partridge station for about two hours to facilitate a shift change. Suddenly, around 1 AM, the train began to move on its own, accelerating down a steep mountain grade, before 99 hopper cars and two locomotives derailed. Handbrakes had not been applied, a practice in accordance with existing Transport Canada guidance. In response to the tragedy, Transportation Minister Marc Garneau felt compelled to temporarily order the application of handbrakes on all trains stopped on mountain slopes as a precaution, until the cause of the derailment is determined. Even this token measure proved too much for the rail bosses, with CP Rail reportedly energetically lobbying Transport Canada to abandon the new rule as too time-consuming, i.e., costly. As I have said many times before, rail safety is my top priority, claimed Garneau. This is an entirely deceptive statement, given that the Transportation Safety Boards own studies document the hazardous conditions routinely faced by transportation crews. Worker fatigue due to long and irregular hours, faulty machinery, the movement of dangerous cargo, extreme weather conditions, faulty safety mechanisms, and poor regulatory oversight are frequently cited as serious safety issues. However, for decades Liberal and Conservative governments alike have enabled private industry to run amok, facilitating multi-billion-dollar profits for the rail companies through the shredding of transportation regulations. As early as 1986, an official inquiry into a fatal collision in Hinton, BC, where 23 people were killed, determined that the crew demonstrated a lack of alertness probably due to chronic fatigue, and described a railroader culture that prized loyalty and productivity at the expense of safety. In 2012, a passenger train derailed at Burlington, Ontario, killing the three crew members and injuring 46 passengers. An investigation determined that safety protections, as well as the crashworthiness of the cars, were inadequate. Then in 2013, less than a year and a half later, 47 people were killed in Canadas worst train disaster at Lac-Megantic, Quebec, when a train carrying oil, and also parked on a sharp incline, suddenly started to move, careened into the center of town and exploded. The official investigation determined that fatigue had compromised the judgment of the lone crew member. Mechanical problems with the locomotives may also have played a role. There are on average at least 50 derailments per month across the country. On the short section of track stretching from Field to Revelstoke, British Columbia where the most recent tragedy occurred, there have been 72 derailments since 2004. During 2018, there were 57 railway-related deaths across the country. The frequency and severity of accidents is attributable to a relentless campaign of privatization and deregulation in Canadas rail sector. This campaign, greenlighted by government in the early 1980s, has emboldened Canadas railway oligopoly to pursue unfettered profit at the expense of basic worker protections. The number of railway inspections has plummeted, from over 7,000 in 1984 to less than 2,000 in 2016. Meanwhile, rail accidents rose by 7 percent in 2018 from a year earlier, with 1,170 reported accidents, or more than three per day. Despite regular tragedies and a mountain of evidence pointing out obvious dangers to rail worker safety, successive governments have refused to properly oversee the industry, let alone prosecute flagrant safety violations. A recent internal Transport Canada memo acknowledges that work rules are feckless, and that fatigue is managed by a patchwork of approaches most of which are outside Transport Canadas control. With the direct facilitation of government and connivance of the rail unions, CN Rail and CP have destroyed thousands of jobs over the past two decades. In 1998, CN culled half of its workforce to become the most efficient railroad in North America. Between 2001 and 2010, one fifth of jobs in Canadas railway industry were eliminated. In 2013, CN Rail cut another 3,000 jobs, and CP Rails new CEO has promised to cut nearly one-quarter of its workforce. This past November there was another spate of layoffs at CN Rail, although the company has declined to disclose the exact figure. Over the past decade, governments of all stripes have openly bolstered the rail industrys assault on working conditions. In 2012, the federal Conservative government used anti-democratic strike-breaking legislation to criminalize a strike by CP Rail workers. The federal NDP responded to the law with the pathetic remark that there was not much it could do because the government had a majority in parliament. In April 2018, Justin Trudeaus Liberal government suspended railway workers right to strike under the Canadian Labour Code. After rail workers overwhelmingly repudiated a rotten concessions contract in a government-supervised vote, Trudeau intervened to declare that his government would not tolerate a lengthy shutdown of the rail system by a strike. The trade unions have also facilitated the railway companies decimation of work standards. In 2012, Teamsters officials ordered their membership to comply with the back-to-work law, and in 2015, on the verge of a strike deadline, agreed to have all outstanding issues decided by a Conservative government-appointed arbitrator. In response to Trudeaus threat of government intervention last year, the Teamsters called off a strike by 3,000 CP Rail workers, and capitulated to the companys demands. Unifor, which represents 9,200 rail workers, also makes a production out of denouncing safety negligence and jobs cuts, while complying with the capitalists demands. In response to the monumental culling of jobs over the past decade, Unifor Rail Director Brian Stevens made the equivocal and vague assertion that I think we need to ask if CP [Rail] is putting shareholders ahead of safety here. As rail accidents continue unabated, the rapacious train companies are raking in massive profits. In Canada, lucrative rail freight operations generate approximately $10 billion annually. CN Rail is the biggest railway network on the continent, and in the last quarter of 2018 its revenues rose nearly sixteen percent to $3.81 billion. The rail business in Canada is set to expand. On the subject of oil exports, Alberta NDP Premier Rachel Notley declared that rather than produce less, we have to find ways to move more. Her government has committed to leasing 4,400 rail cars to accommodate the projected doubling of crude-by-rail shipments over the next two years. In British Columbia, CN Rail, in league with the federal government and port authority, is increasing cargo capacity through Vancouvers harbour. Under increasingly perilous conditions, with rail traffic set to increase with ever-shrinking crews, further disasters leading to injury and death are inevitable, absent the political intervention of the working class. In a social system where the basic safety needs of workers are routinely contemptuously ignored by employers and governments, and no opposition is forthcoming from the unions, the only progressive alternative is the independent political struggle waged by workers themselves. Rail workers across the country must establish rank-and-file committees independent of, and in opposition to, the pro-capitalist trade union apparatuses. These committees should demand immediate measures be taken to improve railroad safety, and appeal for a common struggle with other workers whose jobs and working conditions are just as ruthlessly being sacrificed to satiate the greed of big business. The author also recommends: Canada: Safety Board issues tepid call for more oversight in wake of rail disaster [24 July 2013] Heightened security at mosques and pledged support for the Muslim community defined the widespread response of law enforcement, civic and religious leaders across the U.S. and world in the wake of the horrific attacks Friday that claimed 49 lives at two mosques in New Zealand. Today we stand with the people of Christchurch, New Zealand, said a statement Friday from Public Safety officials in Pittsburgh, where 11 people were killed in a shooting attack last fall at the Tree of Life synagogue. We offer our deepest condolences. And we will continue to stand united against all forms of hate. Authorities assist a victim of the New Zealand mosque shooting Friday In St. Paul, Minnesota, home to a large Muslim population, the police department tweeted: We want our Muslim family members, friends and neighbors to know that well do everything possible to keep you safe and secure in the city we share, and promised to make more frequent visits to our mosques and spend more time in the nearby areas. We are stronger when we stand together, and together well send the powerful message that all are welcome in Saint Paul, the message said. We're incredibly saddened by the senseless violence that occurred in New Zealand. We want our Muslim family members, friends and neighbors to know that we'll do everything possible to keep you safe and secure in the city we share. Saint Paul Police Department (@sppdmn) March 15, 2019 New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said security around mosques there would be increased out of an abundance of caution, according to The New York Times. New Yorkers heading to prayer can be confident that their city will protect them. The New Zealand attacks reflect a rising wave of intolerance in this country and elsewhere, said Nihad Awad, national executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, this nations largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, at a news conference in Washington, D.C., reports the Times. Story continues We are united against hate speech that sees immigrants as invaders, he said. One should not tolerate hate speech because hate speech leads to violence. Now we are looking at the result of hate speech. RELATED: Survivor of the New Zealand Mass Shooting Shares Horror of His Escape: I Had to Run And in Britain, the attacks were condemned as the most deadly Islamophobic terrorist attack we have witnessed in recent times by Harun Khan, secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain. Authorities have indicated they expect murder charges against a shooting suspect, identified as 28-year-old Brenton Tarrant, according to USA Today, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and the BBC. Police have two others also in custody but have not yet formally named the suspects nor their connections to the attacks. The MCB has released this statement following the horrific, cowardly and Islamophobic terrorist attacks at two mosques in New Zealand today. Link to full statement: https://t.co/fONTxqSFkS pic.twitter.com/SiX7VcUo2p MCB (@MuslimCouncil) March 15, 2019 It would seem that Brenton Tarrants murderous intention was to target Muslims at their places of worship and on their sacred day, Khan said in a statement. As the rest of us prepare to undertake our own Friday prayers today, we do so with the anxiety as to whether our mosques and communities are safe in the face of unabated Islamophobia and hostility against Muslims. I call on our government to redouble its efforts to ensure mosques are protected, and call on fellow Muslims to resist the temptation to roll up the banners in fear, as this attack was designed to do. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Click here to get breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases in the True Crime Newsletter. New Zealand police announced on Twitter that 41 people were killed at the Masjid al Noor mosque while seven died at the Linwood Masjid mosque; one more person died at a hospital from their injuries. Disturbingly, the suspected male gunman live-streamed his attack on one of the mosques on social media. Explosive devices also were later found in multiple vehicles by authorities. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern referred to the incident as an extraordinary act of unprecedented violence and considered it to be New Zealands darkest day. It is clear that this can now only be described as a terrorist attack, Ardern said Friday. From what we know, it does appear to have been well planned. RELATED: Disgusting: Politician Denounced for Blaming Mosque Shootings Which Killed 49 on Muslims The New York Times reports that Moustafa Farouk, a spokesman for the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand, said the attack occurred during Friday prayer. Ardern said New Zealand was targeted because it was a nation that celebrates multiculturalism. We were chosen because we represent diversity, kindness compassion, a home for those who share our values, a refuge for those who need it and those values, I can assure you, will not and cannot be shaken by this attack, she said. These are people who I would describe as having extremist views that absolutely no place in New Zealand and no place in the world, Ardern added, condemning those involved. President Donald Trump condemned the attack, tweeting: My warmest sympathy and best wishes goes out to the people of New Zealand after the horrible massacre in the Mosques. The U.S. stands by New Zealand for anything we can do. God bless all! Later, when asked Friday by a reporter if he sees an increase in white nationalism of the type allegedly attributed to the New Zealand shooting suspect, Trump replied: I dont really. I think its a small group of people, according to CNBC. But the presidents rhetoric is part of the problem, said Iman Boukadoum, a senior staff attorney with the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, a civil rights organization based in Washington, according to the Times. Ardern confirmed in a news conference on Saturday local time that the suspected shooter was an Australian who used five guns in the attacks, and did have a gun license allowing him to legally purchase his weapons, according to the BBC. To talk about Friday nights very engaging episode of The Blacklist, its important that we establish one thing first: it is increeeedibly unlikely that Raymond Reddington is going to die by lethal injection. That would be like killing Jimmy Kimmel off of Jimmy Kimmel Live. Raymond Reddington iskind of why were all here. Well, were here for him, and just as importantly, his relationship to Elizabeth Keen. But you cant have one without the other. For that reason, its been difficult to become too invested in the stakes of Raymond Reddingtons pending execution not to mention, death has a way of not entirely sticking on this series. So, tonights episode made the very smart decision not to ramp up the tension on the literal stakes of Red dying, but instead, to focus on what Reds impending death would mean emotionally for the rest of the ensemble. We know this likely isnt goodbye for Reddington, but seeing as hes strapped down to a chair, swabbed in the very last moments of this episode, everyone inside the show could and should think this is the end. And the end is a good time to give it everything youve got; to leave no stone unturned; to orchestrate an Oceans 11-style pickpocket scheme; to force yourself into two meetings with the President of the United States. Its also a good time to say I love you. This lens of culmination makes for one of the more emotional episodes of The Blacklist in recent memory. And it feels good to have experienced that emotional catharsis through these characters, all the while knowing: its very likely that in the 10 minutes immediately following the blackout that ends this episode, someone is going to figure out a way to save Raymond Reddington from a federally-mandated lethal injection. I have no idea how theyll do it, but I cant wait to find out and thats a successful result of this execution story line in and of itself. BASTIEN MOREAU, NO. 20 But this episode makes one thing clear: everything and I mean, everything started with Bastien Moreau. Story continues He was the last patient to have his appearance surgically altered by Hans Koehler (yknow, because he murdered him afterward) in the premiere of season 6, which led Liz to discover that Fraymond Freddington was also a former patient of Koehler. Bastiens plot to bomb the United Nations in episode 2 of season 6 is what eventually led Red to uncover a conspiracy that involves the very highest echelons of American government, the uncovering of which he considers his only chance at escaping lethal injection. And you have to admit, Im going to blackmail the President of the United States is riiiight up there with Im going to steal the Declaration of Independence in terms of plans so zany they just might work. How Red goes about blackmailing the President is a slightly more complicated tale. The episode opens with Moreau on the phone with the same female voice we heard instructing him during the United Nations plot. Since that plan failed, she tells Moreau theyre in crisis mode. He says to tell her boss to chill: It will be handled within two days. We finally see the woman on the other end of the line as she gets out of a car at the White Houseand tells security the president is expecting her. Whatever is happening here, Red thinks its big enough to use as leverage for the president to issue a commutation of his execution, which is scheduled for the day after next at 12:01 a.m. Red tells Cooper the first step in uncovering the conspiracy is stealing account information from a bank in Luxembourg. As Liz further explains to Cooper at the Post Office, Red assumed the Cryptobanker could lead him back to the mysterious man in Cairo whos at the center of this conspiracy, but the man in Cairo sent the money to someone else via an account at a Luxembourg bank. Now they have to find out who that account belongs to. Or rather, Liz says she and Dembe have to find out; what theyll be doing is illegal, and she wont risk getting everyone else in trouble. But when she boards Reds jet to head to Luxembourg there everyone else is, waiting to help her, no matter the cost. This declaration of familial love, coupled with the fact that Aram has just found out about Samars aphasia and issued his unending support, and you can go ahead and count me in as, uh, a bit of a mess. Luckily, there was plenty of upcoming action to dry my tears (Recap continues on the next page) Since this Luxemburg bank specializes in accounts for criminals, its safeguards are unlike any other. Their system is unhackable without the master fob, which is only carried by the president of the bank himself. One might think he would keep such an important device under further protections, but no: hes got that sucker on his key ring. All the better to be lifted by Undercover Liz while Undercover Samar (switching between French and English flawlessly) distracts the bank president, and passed off to Aram, who sets up shop in the bathroom. Of course, once Aram hacked the system, he promptly drops the keys in the toilet, presenting an opportunity for Liz to have to go full-rude-American to keep the bank president distracted, but they eventually get the keys back in his pocket, and themselves back on the jet Where they find that the account belongs to Jonas Kruger, a German intelligence officer who works with the German embassy in D.C. While the rest of the team is figuring out how Kruger could possibly be key to saving Reds life, Cooper is trying to do the very same with even less information. Panabaker has gotten him a meeting with POTUS andthe woman from the phone call with Moreau, whos introduced as Anna McMahan from DoJ. So, thats a yikes. As you can imagine, McMahan is not very open to Coopers suggestion that Raymond Reddington has uncovered a conspiracy thats a matter of national security, but he simply needs more time to solve it yknow, before he gets executed. McMahan tells the President that if he lets Reddington draw even a single extra breath, your opponents will make you look softer on crime than the Pillsbury Dough Boy. Cooper is put in the unfortunate position of still needing to do everything in his power to prevent Zieglers assassination, but knowing that in doing so, hes sentencing Red to death. If you want absolution, you have it, Red tells Cooper. Then he repeats what he told McMahan on the call: You are the best, Harold as an agent, and a person, and a friend. (Please excuse this recapper while she gets herself together) (Hokay) It finally seems like Reddington, who has never met a task he wouldnt take on with omniscient confidence, is resigning himself to his fate. And with good reason. Night is falling, and at this very moment in the White House, McMahan is telling the president that even though Reddington knows everything and Ziegler has been warned about the attempt, theres nothing the Task Force can do to stop it But theyll sure try, and they wont stop trying until the clock strikes midnight. The FBI find Kruger just as hes trying to skip town, and he tells them that his job was to sweep the hotel and set up security protocols for when Ziegler arrived the only thing he did was give a man (Moreau, as we already know) his credentials and Zieglers schedule. Kruger doesnt know what the man was going to do with them, but when they met, Kruger saw what looked like a bomb. The FBI rushes to the hotel where Ziegler is taking a meeting with a Senator Wade. Shes telling the Senator that German intelligence has been working cooperatively with a former MI6 agent who showed her a dossier earlier today outlining a plot against America. And at this exact moment, we see Moreau arriving at the MI6 agents hotel room, putting a gun in his face and demanding the dossier. The agent insists he doesnt have it, so Moreau tells him he has to take him to wherever it is. (Recap continues on the next page) Meanwhile, Cooper takes one more meeting with the President of the United States to try to convince him that Reddington is the only one with the knowledge to stop the plot against Ziegler. Of course, what he doesnt know is that McMahan has orchestrated that plot with the cooperation of the president. But the simple fact that people know about the plot, even without knowing his specific involvement, puts the president in a precarious situation, Id say. As Cooper tells him, You can listen to Ms. McMahan and a prominent German official will die. Or you can listen to me, and shell survive. But about that time, Cooper gets a call that Ziegler has been taken to a secure location, and McMahan tells him smugly, Well what do you know, looks like you didnt need Reddingtons help after all. WRONG, LADY! (Of course, she already knew that, but still.) Ziegler might be in an offsite location now, but the hotel has been swept, and no bomb was found. As Senator Wade tries to ask about the dossier she mentioned earlier, Ziegler begins complaining that she cant breathe. She collapses to the floor Where BEETLES start crawling out of her mouth. Damn you, General Shiro!!!! When Cooper gets word in the car with Panabaker that Ziegler has died, he tells the driver to turn around and go back to the White House. Its 11:50 p.m. and he needs to tell the president he has 10 minutes to change his mind about Reddington, Or Im going to tell The New York Times that he could have saved the life of Germanys top intelligence officer, but chose not to. Panabaker tells him that would be career suicide. Yes, Cooper agrees for the president. That sound you hear is a mic dropping. Cooper really is The Best. Oh, and that other sound you hear? That would be my sobs! Liz decided earlier in the episode that if there was a possibility these would be Reddingtons last moments on earth, she had to finally ask him the questions that have been eating away at her about his true identity. But when Liz arrives, telling Red theres something she needs to ask him, she finds something she wasnt expecting. Reddington or whoever he is explains that hes chosen cabbage soup and herring as his last meal because thats what his mother made him as a child. I was a difficult child; people saw me one way, I saw myself another, Red tells Liz, minutes away from death, and sounding very unlike the man weve listened to for the last six seasons. I feltmisunderstood; acted out. My father fancied himself a disciplinarian, very moralistic. Instead of trying to understand me, he excommunicated me. Red says that his mother understood the problems of the human heart in conflict with itself, and so she understood everything. He tells Liz that hes taught her to think like a criminal, but he should have been teaching her to think like his mother. All those years spent worrying about you, fancying myself your guardian angel she would have taken one look at you and known youd be fine. Oh, and this is where he really gets me Because you have in your life the only thing that matters: people who love you flash cut to Cooper people you can depend on cut to Ressler and Aram people who will always tell you the truth cut to Samar. Six years ago, I turned myself over because of you. Now, here at the end, Im at peace because of them. Gulp. If The Blacklist hadnt been renewed for a seventh season (it was!), this would not be the worst way to end it: with a message of growth and found family. But given what comes next, this cant be the end. Because Liz decides not to ask Red for answers in their final moments together. She decides to give him something instead: I love you, Lizzie tells Red. Thats what I wanted to say. Thats what I wanted you to hear. Red is nothing short of shocked, but theres no time left to say anything else. Hes taken to a room, strapped down to a chair, and told how the injection will work. The curtain to the viewing room is opened, and in one of many beautiful shots from director Andrew McCarthy this episode, we see Liz and Dembe sitting side-by-side, with Reds face reflected in the glass between them. The administrator asks Reddington if he has any last words. Red looks at Liz BLACKOUT. A FEW LOOSE ENDS Oof, guys, I know its somewhat intentional, but Im still pretty confused about this conspiracy! Is the President of the United Statesplotting against the United States??? What exactly is contained in the dossier that got Ziegler killed, and at the end of this episode, who is in possession of it? Also, Red justlet that lady die, right? Oh, and one more question: Exactly how long is that drive back to the White House, and just how concise is Coopers final presidential argument on behalf of Reddington going to be? Because I can barely decide what I want to order on a menu in 10 minutes, let alone save someones life See ya next week, by which time I super, super hope Red will not be dead! In Christopher Morris new satire, The Day Shall Come, the stories of many people in the United States are condensed into one bitterly funny but dark comedy about the shortcomings of our justice system. On one side is a charismatic man with delusions of grandeur, Moses (newcomer Marchant Davis). He oversees a peaceful sect based on a fairly convoluted belief system that references Black Islamist, Jewish and Christian traditions. Moses works with his wife, Venus (Danielle Brooks, Orange Is the New Black) on the farm, takes in former drug dealers off the streets, and preaches the gospel of nonviolence and communal living. However, his unorthodox prayers call out to the liberator of Haiti, Francois-Dominique Toussaint Louverture, and to Black Santa. Its erratic enough behavior to get on the FBIs radar, who deem Moses and his Star of Six group a possible threat. What follows is a Veep-like look at the behind-the-scenes fumblings of the FBI. Driven by careerist aspirations, the group puts their self-interests above the need to do whats right. Kendra (Anna Kendrick) leads the charge with shaky intel, feeding her boss Andy (Denis OHare) the false hope of a good case on which to end his career. As the FBI tries to trap Moses and frame him for intent to commit terrorist attacks, he proves not to be a traditional target, giving both the FBI and the movie their fair share of surprises. Also Read: 'The Laundromat' Film Review: Steven Soderbergh's Panama Papers Tale Is a Messy Expose Despite the serious subject, Morris gives The Day Shall Come a brisk and upbeat tone. Some situations are so silly, you cant help but laugh. The movie excels at the snappy workplace back-and-forth dialogue between Kendra and her antagonistic all-male team, perhaps a beneficiary of Morris time as a director on Veep. The scenes of the FBI are mostly cast under the pall of fluorescent blue lights, contrasting against the bright warmth of the pink Miami home and rundown community farm where Moses and his followers work. Story continues Morris struggles with how to approach Moses, an innocent yet strange victim. While its clear that he sympathizes with what the unfairly targeted man is going through, a number of the jokes are still at his expense. In treating everyone equally as fools, theres a disparity in who can withstand that kind of lampooning and who gets maligned in the real world. Also Read: 'Black and Blue' Film Review: Naomie Harris Plays a Conflicted Cop in By-the-Numbers Drama Unfortunately, Kendrick is not on screen enough to build out a great performance, but Davis uses her short scenes to dig into the humanity of his out-sized character. Theres a tragic element in the way that Moses doesnt understand his betrayal, which makes the actions of the FBI seem even crueler. Like the bumbling jihadists of Morris previous film, Four Lions, Moses is nowhere near ready to become a terrorist, not that hes trying to become one. Its the government that villainizes him and his beliefs. The one major fault in The Day Shall Come stems from treating everyone from the FBI to their poorly-sourced targets as buffoons, which absolves the FBI from the serious implications of its actions. In order to save their careers, the agents scramble to arrest someone more in need of psychiatric help than prison bars, undercutting the fact that not only did they upend the lives of four people including Venus, who left before Moses fell to temptation but the FBIs actions also affected their families, Venus and Moses daughter, and their Liberty City community. Also Read: 'Judy' Film Review: Renee Zellweger Vividly Captures a 20th Century Icon The Day Shall Come is greatest when skewering power and shining a light on grave legal overreach. That we can laugh about it is great, but its a sign of our own security, of how unlikely we feel that we would be targeted in the same way. For others, laughing at this movie may not be so easy. Read original story The Day Shall Come Film Review: Four Lions Director Returns With Another Blistering Political Satire At TheWrap When it comes to deciding on a college, most students have to decide between one or two schools, however, a senior from Atlanta, Georgia has to choose between nearly 40 and counting! Jordan Nixon, a 17-year-old high school senior at Douglas County High, told CBS 46 when researching schools, she wanted to find a college with a diverse student body and offered International Business as a major. She had no idea that would lead her to get accepted into 39 schools and awarded $1.6 million in scholarships. The crazy thing is, Im still waiting on decision letters, but I was not expecting that at all, Nixon told the CBS 46. Nixons acceptances are the highest number any student at Douglas County High has ever received, the outlet reported. Were so happy for her because she does put in a lot of due diligence into applying for these schools, Nixons parents Angelia and Arthur Nixon told CBS 46. Her parents also described her as independent, well-rounded and an active participant in a plethora of extracurricular activities, CBS 46 reported. I am one of the captains of the varsity cheer team at Douglass County, Im in Chick-fil-A Leader Academy, and I also participate in DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America), the soon-to-be college student said. Nixon explained she applied to about 50 schools, but is still surprised every time she reads a congratulations letter. Its shocking, each and every time, youre taken aback every time you open one, Nixon told CBS 46. RELATED: Student Surprised By Full Scholarship As for how Nixon was able to rack up that many acceptances, she says I dont study all the time, but I definitely do study, I think my secret is to just give it my all. Nixon also spoke to Fox 5 Atlanta, explaining that she hopes her story inspires others. I wanted to challenge myself, Nixon told the outlet. That was the most important thing for me, just to show others anything is possible and that anyone can accomplish it too. Nixon has yet to decide on a college, but has until May 1 to do so. There's something refreshingly youthful about Haley Lu Richardson, who stars in Five Feet Apart, CBS Films' poignant teen romance about two young people, Stella and Will (Riverdale's Cole Sprouse), who endure a heartbreaking love story and also happen to have cystic fibrosis. Nestled comfortably on a light grey couch in a luxurious Beverly Hills, California, hotel room on a dreary March afternoon, Richardson -- in a vibrant beachy crop top and maxi skirt -- is the spitting image of summer, the irony of her ill-timed outfit as the pitter-patter of the steady L.A. rain hits against the glass windows the main source of amusement for the young actress "Feel it!" implores Richardson (who turned 24 the day after this interview), as she leans forward on the couch once small talk turns to the unique fabric material of her neon-printed ensemble. "It's a bathing suit," she proudly states, a laugh escaping her lips as she happily shows off her outfit. The actress isn't a household name quite yet, but Five Feet Apart -- her first major lead role -- could very well get her on her way. Though she's been in the business for under a decade, Richardson has already showcased her acting prowess through invaluable supporting performances in Freeform teen dramas (Ravenswood and Recovery Road), 2018's Support the Girls (as a peppy waitress) and 2016's The Edge of Seventeen (as Hailee Steinfeld's best friend who dates her brother), the latter of which landed Richardson raves. "It's definitely something that's outside of my body," Richardson says of the quiet recognition she's gotten in her young career. "As much as you'd want to, like, if you do a movie that you are really proud of, obviously you'd want as many people to see it and like it or be moved by it. But I don't have any control over it, so I can't think about that. But a big part of why acting is so cool is, you get to have this selfish creative fulfillment. And then you get to share that in a movie or a show with other people and they get to have their interpretations of it. Half the joy of acting [would be] missing if you did something and no one ever saw it or no one ever got to feel something from it." Story continues Richardson is also approaching a crucial fork in the road as she enters her mid-20s in Hollywood: the oft talked-about transition for young actors of her ilk from exclusively telling high school, teenage tales with rosier outlooks to mature, adult stories only life experience can convey. Recently, she lamented about the rigors of approaching adulthood when she shared a black-and-white photograph on Instagram. It's the first image "where I look at myself and see an adult woman person and not a 12-year-old person," she writes. "That's not really how I feel like I look on the inside. Like, I think I'm going to be 90 one day and be walking around feeling like I'm 14, and then a mirror is going to pass, and I'm going to pass something and see my reflection and be like, 'Holy sh**, I'm like an old lady,'" Richardson says, as she fiddles with the hotel pillow. "I kind of want to just feel like a kid forever. Because kids have the most fun and they see the world in the best [way] -- that innocence or wonder that a kid sees in the world. I feel like it's really sad when people lose that, so I try to hold on to little baby kid Haley as much as possible." CBS Films "I did just get this script where I would be playing a young mother, and I was like, oh sh**. That's when you know. No more ABC family shows where I'm playing high school," she says, eyes widening a bit. "I'm a young mother. Someone is considering me for that. That's weird, that's bizarre." Nervous excitement would be the only way to describe Richardson's feelings about "venturing into this different age group" that will, hopefully, "open up more things." "I feel lucky in that way. I haven't really played the same character twice. Every project, every director I've worked with are completely different. It's a totally new vibe. You don't get pigeon-holed," she muses. "There are still so many more things that I want to explore that I don't know if studio executives look at me and would imagine me doing it, but that is exciting to imagine -- pushing that envelope and being something totally different than how I am or what I've done." In Five Feet Apart, which marks Jane the Virgin star Justin Baldoni's feature directorial debut, Richardson plays Stella, a buoyant, obsessive rule-following 17-year-old YouTube vlogger who has cystic fibrosis. Somewhere along the way, she meets fellow cystic fibrosis patient, Will (Sprouse). He's the complete opposite of Stella; apathetic, moody and less than willing to abide by the strict regimen required by his clinical trial. They, of course, fall in love, but aren't allowed to touch, the invisible "six feet apart" rule instituted to protect CF patients from contracting potentially life-threatening bacteria from the other. It's a 2019 version of Fault in Our Stars, if you will. But Richardson almost didn't star in Five Feet Apart, originally passing on the script when Baldoni -- who became a close friend through Richardson's longtime love Brett Dier, a co-star of Baldoni's on Jane the Virgin -- floated it her way. One, she was working on another project at the time. Two, she wasn't in the right headspace to tackle a story of this magnitude. "I think where I was at in the couple things I had worked on right before [Edge of Seventeen] and the space I was in, with the kinds of things I was excited to do, I was [into] super grounded, simple, stripped away and as human as a story could possibly get," Richardson says. "Reading this type of genre of movie, no matter how moving and how real it is, it was hard for me to -- in terms of the creative space in my mind, I was wanting to do something different than that. I read it and I couldn't fully get on board with the big magical-ness of the teen romance world. And honestly, I couldn't get into it. I wrote Justin this big email and it was really hard, because I love Justin, and I was so proud of him, and I recognized that the script was so beautiful in so many ways. I just personally couldn't imagine me doing that next for some reason." A lengthy phone conversation with Baldoni and his documentary about his late friend, Claire Wineland, ultimately changed Richardson's mind. "He was like, 'Haley, just come and talk to me. We're friends. Tell me everything you feel and I'll tell you what I'm open to,' because he wanted to collaborate and he wanted to make the genre grounded. The characters themselves couldn't be magical, because the story's so magical. We talked through all of the words in the script on his lunch break on the set of Jane, and any time I read a word or a sentence or a conversation where I was like, 'I can't imagine that actually happening. Or, 'I can't imagine a 17-year-old girl saying this,' he was so open to it."Richardson shares. "Then, I was like, 'OK, I'll do it.'" CBS Films "He sent me the documentary he made of Claire, and that's when it really hit me, that no matter where I was at creatively or all that kind of bullsh**, like, this is a real story, and the weight and gravity and reality of cystic fibrosis -- these people have it their whole lives and live this way -- I became very passionate about that and learning about that and telling that story. When I was talking to Justin, and realizing the reality of it, that got me." Creating chemistry with Sprouse was instantaneous, Richardson remembers, though the biggest challenge for the pair was unfurling a love story in an unconventional way, as their characters aren't allowed to touch. "We both just really cared about doing a good job, and doing justice to these characters, and making it as grounded and lived in as possible," she says. "Also, he's a nice, cool guy in real life, so I think it's one of those things where if both people are willing to commit to telling the story properly and believing the words they are saying, then it kind of happens." "There's no sex scene in the movie. There's no big make-out scene. They genuinely fall in love because they have this connection, and yeah, I'm sure they are physically attracted [to each other] and they find the way they look in their bodies beautiful, but it's not about the moment where he puts his hand on her tit," Richardson says with a laugh. "It's about their vulnerability, and how they show each other in other ways to one another, and that's what's beautiful. That's what's refreshing and innocent, and kind of awkward." She points to the climactic pool scene where Stella and Will are stripped down to their underwear as they bare their scars to each other for the first time. "That's the sex scene of the movie for sure," Richardson notes. "It makes it more intimate when you are exposed in an emotional way as opposed to a physical way sometimes." And like Fault in Our Stars, Five Feet Apart has its heartbreaking, tear-inducing moments. Sprouse carries a heart-wrenching speech at the end of the movie that leaves things on an open-ended, bittersweet note. For Richardson, getting through the film's more emotional scenes wasn't particularly difficult, largely because her character is allowed to show her feelings. "My character is allowed to cry," Richardson says. "There are times where she is trying to be so strong, but since you see them at this really high-stakes, pivotal moment in their life, they break and they have times where they are sad or hopeless. There's a lot of sad stuff, but at the end of the movie, I hope people walk out feeling inspired in their own lives, and awakened in a way." Richardson pauses, her inner child seeping through once more: "Or awoke!" Five Feet Apart is in theaters now. RELATED CONTENT: Cole Sprouse Flirts With Haley Lu Richardson in 'Five Feet Apart' First Look (Exclusive) Cole Sprouse Starts a Hospital Romance With Haley Lu Richardson in New 'Five Feet Apart' Trailer Related Articles: Courtney Jackson was born at only 23 weeks in 2001, weighing just over a pound with only about eight teaspoons of blood in her body. Doctors gave her a 50 percent chance of survival. Now, Courtney is a healthy high school senior preparing to graduate in May. It came down to Courtneys will to survive and the blessings of God that she made it through, Courtneys father, Chris Jackson, of Bloomfield, Iowa, tells PEOPLE. When she was born, she was one of the 10 smallest babies at the time to ever have survived there. Courtney was born a micro-preemie the smallest of all premature babies at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Babies delivered so early are often born with skin fragile to the touch, trouble breathing, and underdeveloped eyelids. Those who survive such premature births often suffer long-term health issues including intellectual disabilities, hearing loss, blindness, cerebral palsy and even chronic lung disease. Courtney Jackson Courtneys mother, Jennifer, suffered eclampsia and had four seizures just days before Courtneys birth. She was rushed to the hospital where she was induced and gave birth on June 19. To the parents relief, Courtney survived the birth and the baby spent five months in the hospital. Shes been a fighter since the beginning. The doctors at that time didnt even really know what to expect. Then we really started to see her grow and she began to eat better and gain weight and maintain her temperature. Then you got excited to think, Were actually going to get to take her home! RELATED STORY: Identical Micro-Preemie Twin Girls Among Youngest Babies to Be Born at Iowa Hospital She required oxygen tanks for the first year of her life outside the hospital. Much to everyones surprise, Courtney continued to beat the odds over the years. Today, Courtney is a normal teenager who enjoys playing the flute and piccolo, Chris says. Courtney Jackson (center) with parents Jennifer (left) and Chris She has no complications from her prematurity. To look back to when she started to now, its just amazing, the father of four says. We look back and we know that God blessed us with her. Shes here for a reason. Story continues As for Courtney, she says its pretty cool to see her story told in news articles over the years. Its something thats unique about me, Courtney tells PEOPLE. Were just thankful that Im here. Nearly two decades after Courtneys birth, another family is going through a similar situation to the Jacksons ordeal. Last year, sisters Keeley James and Kambry Lee Ewoldt were born 18 weeks early, at just 22 weeks and one day gestation on Nov. 24 placing them among the youngest surviving premature babies born at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, according to the Associated Press. Jackson family The girls remain hospitalized but are steadily gaining weight, a hospital spokeswoman previously told PEOPLE. I can understand what those parents are going through. Everything theyre going through, weve gone through those emotions, Chris tells PEOPLE. Its always a good thing to hear these success stories. Normally you hear about the success stories, but you dont hear about the kids who didnt make it. It makes us feel blessed that we were able to get through in the way that we were. Right wing provocateur Milo Yiannopoulos has been banned from entering Australia after saying Friday that attacks like the recent massacre in New Zealand happen because the establishment mollycoddles extremist Leftism and barbaric, alien religious cultures.Milo Yiannopoulos will not be allowed to enter Australia for his proposed tour this year. Mr Yiannopoulos comments on social media regarding the Christchurch terror attack are appalling and foment hatred and division, Australias Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs David Coleman said in a statement Saturday. The terrorist attack in Christchurch was carried out on Muslims peacefully practicing their religion. It was an act of pure evil. Australia stands with New Zealand and with Muslim communities the world over in condemning this inhuman act, his statement added.Also Read: Instagram Takes Down Milo Yiannopoulos Post Praising Attempted Bombings, Threatens SuspensionA gunman opened fire in two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, on Friday, killing 49 people and injuring more than a dozen others. The Australian-born person claiming responsibility for the attacks said he went to New Zealand solely to commit the attack, and that he used guns specifically to cause discord over the Second Amendment in the United States, according to the New York Times.The decision from Australia came after a Friday post from Yiannopoulos on Facebook in which the former Breitbart editor said attacks like those at the Christchurch mosques are provoked by establishments pandering to extremists on the left.Milo declined a request for comment from TheWrap, but in a series of social media posts he decried the decision, saying it was once again an assault on his free speech rights.Also Read: Death Toll in New Zealand Mosque Shootings Rises to 49I explicitly denounced violence. I said that we on the Right are always disavowing racists. I pointed out the inconvenient fact that it is Leftists committing the majority of political violence. And I criticized the establishment for pandering to Islamic fundamentalism. So Australia banned me again, he said on Instagram. Coleman and his party deserve to be annihilated at the next election for their betrayal of such fundamental western values as free speech and for cravenly folding to pressure from the Left. And I suspect that electoral annihilation is exactly whats about to happen.Coleman originally approved Yiannopoulos entry into the country for a speaking tour before elections in May, overriding the concerns of the countrys Department of Home Affairs, according to News Corp Australia. A 2017 visit from Milo to the suburbs of Melbourne led to violent protests.Once a scourge of U.S. college campuses, Yiannopoulos largely faded from public view after being banned from Twitter. In February 2017, he resigned his position at Breitbart after multiple past remarks surfaced in which he appeared to defend pedophilia. A separate independent media venture from Yiannopoulos also ended in failure.Read original story Milo Yiannopoulos Banned From Australia After His New Zealand Massacre Remarks At TheWrap Right wing provocateur Milo Yiannopoulos has been banned from entering Australia after saying Friday that attacks like the recent massacre in New Zealand happen because the establishment mollycoddles extremist Leftism and barbaric, alien religious cultures. Milo Yiannopoulos will not be allowed to enter Australia for his proposed tour this year. Mr Yiannopoulos comments on social media regarding the Christchurch terror attack are appalling and foment hatred and division, Australias Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs David Coleman said in a statement Saturday. The terrorist attack in Christchurch was carried out on Muslims peacefully practicing their religion. It was an act of pure evil. Australia stands with New Zealand and with Muslim communities the world over in condemning this inhuman act, his statement added. Also Read: Instagram Takes Down Milo Yiannopoulos Post Praising Attempted Bombings, Threatens Suspension A gunman opened fire in two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, on Friday, killing 49 people and injuring more than a dozen others. The Australian-born person claiming responsibility for the attacks said he went to New Zealand solely to commit the attack, and that he used guns specifically to cause discord over the Second Amendment in the United States, according to the New York Times. The decision from Australia came after a Friday post from Yiannopoulos on Facebook in which the former Breitbart editor said attacks like those at the Christchurch mosques are provoked by establishments pandering to extremists on the left. Milo declined a request for comment from TheWrap, but in a series of social media posts he decried the decision, saying it was once again an assault on his free speech rights. Also Read: Death Toll in New Zealand Mosque Shootings Rises to 49 I explicitly denounced violence. I said that we on the Right are always disavowing racists. I pointed out the inconvenient fact that it is Leftists committing the majority of political violence. And I criticized the establishment for pandering to Islamic fundamentalism. So Australia banned me again, he said on Instagram. Coleman and his party deserve to be annihilated at the next election for their betrayal of such fundamental western values as free speech and for cravenly folding to pressure from the Left. And I suspect that electoral annihilation is exactly whats about to happen. Story continues Coleman originally approved Yiannopoulos entry into the country for a speaking tour before elections in May, overriding the concerns of the countrys Department of Home Affairs, according to News Corp Australia. A 2017 visit from Milo to the suburbs of Melbourne led to violent protests. Once a scourge of U.S. college campuses, Yiannopoulos largely faded from public view after being banned from Twitter. In February 2017, he resigned his position at Breitbart after multiple past remarks surfaced in which he appeared to defend pedophilia. A separate independent media venture from Yiannopoulos also ended in failure. Read original story Milo Yiannopoulos Banned From Australia After His New Zealand Massacre Remarks At TheWrap Mom Who Lost Two of Her Triplets Is Pregnant Again: It's 'Scary, but Also Beautiful' Mom Who Lost Two of Her Triplets Is Pregnant Again A few months ago, when Stacey Skrysak discovered that she was pregnant again, the Illinois mom burst into tears. Im scared to have another baby, she tells PEOPLE. Im freaked out. This next chapter is so scary, but also beautiful. In 2013, Skrysak, 38, lost two of her three triplets born more than 17 weeks premature at a little over 22 weeks. The television news anchor continues to share openly about her heartbreaking loss, as she did with PEOPLE in 2015, in order to help others going through similar losses. The surviving triplet, Peyton, now 5 , is thriving beyond anyones expectations, so Stacey and her husband, Ryan, gave up any thoughts of having another child. They also feared the possibility of what could go wrong. The couple, which had struggled with infertility before using IVF to conceive the triplets, even gave up custody of the remaining frozen embryos theyd stored six months ago. I never thought, she said, that I would be able to get through another pregnancy emotionally, mentally and physically. So in December, when two pink lines appeared on a pregnancy test, it was the surprise of our lives, Stacey says of the natural conception. No one ever thought wed have more children, this was the only way wed have children if it was meant to be. Peyton Skrysak Now in her second trimester at 15 weeks and due in August, Skrysak says she can find joy and excitement mixed in with the bittersweet feeling many pregnant women feel after loss. Skrysak made the pregnancy public Monday night during her on-air broadcast and to her thousands of fans on Facebook. Its such a bittersweet time, Skyrsak says. My husband and I having always been optimistic people, but losing a child changes that. This pregnancy, I dont think either of us will be fully optimistic until we have a healthy baby in our arms. And theres another issue Skrysak is dealing with As I turn 39 years old later this week, I can definitely say being pregnant at close to 40 is SO much more tiring than in my early 30s! she wrote on her blog. Story continues In January, Skrysak had an ultrasound at six weeks. As the tech started typing out baby Skrysak began to cry. I was brought right back to 6 years ago, when the ultrasound tech typed out Baby a, baby b and baby c, Skrysak tells PEOPLE. The emotions and memories are overwhelming. There is that fear of keeping this baby safe when my body felt as if it failed me last time. As the pregnancy moves along, Skrysak is closely monitored by the same team of doctors who saved her life following the birth of the triplets, and who enabled Peyton to become the youngest baby to survive in their area. That gives her comfort, as well as the pregnancy advancing with no complications. Says Skrysak: The baby looks great and that gives me my peace of mind. Were excited. Horses and men have been mythic companions as long as movies have been around, so why does it feel as if within only the last couple of years, with The Rider, Lean on Pete, and now French filmmaker Laure de Clermont-Tonnerres touching drama The Mustang, have we gotten a fuller examination of this relationship?Maybe because were finally seeing horses treated as flesh-and-blood characters and not simply beautiful accessories or four-legged extensions of the riders personality (or just vehicles for transport). Which is surely why de Clermont-Tonnerre was drawn to the stories coming out of prison programs around the world that utilized animals as therapy living, breathing, loving creatures who could help resocialize those coarsened by incarceration.But The Mustang which de Clermont-Tonnerre wrote with Mona Fastvold (The Childhood of a Leader) and Brock Norman Brock (Yardie), and which recently premiered at Sundance isnt just about what happens when a hardened prisoner (Matthias Schoenaerts) learns to tame a wild horse. Weve all seen enough movies that we can say it together: he learns about himself, too. Whats uniquely resonant about her approach is that, by framing this rehabilitation story in the context of not just our treatment of the incarcerated but also the horses situation (wild mustangs rounded up en masse as a population control measure), her film is about a relationship forged in a give-and-take that treats beast and human as emotional equals.Also Read: 'Fatima' Tops 'Mustang' to Win Big at France's Cesar AwardsIn fact, de Clermont-Tonnerres opening images are of freedom, captured explicitly from the perspective of the animals: a herd of mustangs at play, at rest, and roaming in a gorgeous mountain range, until the sound of whirring blades cuts through the sound of hooves, and a copter enters the wide frame to guide these horses into pens. Needless to say, the creatures dont respond well, their every kick and exhortation thick with agitated aggression.Just as significant in the filmmakers desire to link horse and human before they even meet, when the film cuts to a Nevada prison counselor (Connie Britton) evaluating a new transfer whos off-camera, we only hear the prisoners animalistic, unresponsive snorting. This is our introduction to Schoenaerts Roman, a barrel-chested, menacing and tight-lipped convict of many years trying to get out of isolation and into gen pop again, except, as he grunts to Britton, Im not good with people. Hes barely communicable even with his own pregnant teenage daughter (Gideon Adlon, Blockers), whose stone-faced visits suggest that whatever put Roman behind bars for 12 years (the horrific details of which we learn later), forgiveness has been difficult and parenting non-existent.Also Read: Margot Robbie, Matthias Schoenaerts to Star in Black List Thriller 'Ruin'Outdoor maintenance is where Roman finds himself, shoveling horse manure, until the sound of a buckskins furious kicking against the door of its sunless pen draws his attention. Schoenaerts eyes, simultaneously curious and wary, say it all: Is this inmate angrier than I am? Once accepted into the prisons horse-training program under crusty administrator Myles (a full-throttle Bruce Dern), and guided through the process by genial fellow inmate Henry (Jason Mitchell, Mudbound), Roman is forced to realize how much his unbridled rage prevents meaningful connection with others.De Clermont-Tonnerre doesnt shy from visually synching Romans breakthroughs with Marquis, the name he gives his ornery charge, with his own inner journey. After a lovely shot in which Marquis head silently, sensitively enters the frame to brush up against the dejected Roman representing their first true bonding she cuts to Roman inside the prison, at a window, the angle of which offers a reflection as bold as a mirrors.Also Read: Connie Britton Explains Her Plan to Keep You From Screaming at 'Dirty John's' Debra Every WeekThe filmmaker is aware that shes in Western territory, yet she judiciously deploys Ruben Impens (The Broken Circle Breakdown) textured cinematography, and the intimately boxy 1.66:1 aspect ratio, for classically mythic images only when they resonantly tweak the genres visual language: a line of men on horseback riding through a stunning landscape, for instance, accompanied only by a watchful prison vehicle.And while shes injected The Mustang with an appealingly non-judgmental depiction of penitentiary life, de Clermont-Tonnerre is less skillful breathing new life into certain prison-narrative tropes. The one vivid byproduct of a tepidly rendered subplot involving Romans threatening cellmate is that Schoenaerts, when required to unleash toxic masculine violence, is terrifyingly good at it. Thankfully hes just a magnetic actor overall, keen to the ways the physicality of brutish men is sometimes made hopelessly awkward by the injection of emotional healing.The horses magnificently do their part, too, as co-stars in this redemption saga, mostly because de Clermont-Tonnerre gives them plenty of screen time to be irritable, sad, manic, desperate, but also begrudging, friendly, spirited, and at peace. It says a lot about where The Mustang stands in the history of man-and-his-horse movies that when auction day arrives, and the camera pans across a line of changed prisoners sitting atop similarly becalmed, four-legged hardcases, I found myself scanning the horses faces to gauge what they were thinking. Read original story The Mustang Film Review: Matthias Schoenaerts Tames a Horse and Saves Himself in Prison Drama At TheWrap Horses and men have been mythic companions as long as movies have been around, so why does it feel as if within only the last couple of years, with The Rider, Lean on Pete, and now French filmmaker Laure de Clermont-Tonnerres touching drama The Mustang, have we gotten a fuller examination of this relationship? Maybe because were finally seeing horses treated as flesh-and-blood characters and not simply beautiful accessories or four-legged extensions of the riders personality (or just vehicles for transport). Which is surely why de Clermont-Tonnerre was drawn to the stories coming out of prison programs around the world that utilized animals as therapy living, breathing, loving creatures who could help resocialize those coarsened by incarceration. But The Mustang which de Clermont-Tonnerre wrote with Mona Fastvold (The Childhood of a Leader) and Brock Norman Brock (Yardie), and which recently premiered at Sundance isnt just about what happens when a hardened prisoner (Matthias Schoenaerts) learns to tame a wild horse. Weve all seen enough movies that we can say it together: he learns about himself, too. Whats uniquely resonant about her approach is that, by framing this rehabilitation story in the context of not just our treatment of the incarcerated but also the horses situation (wild mustangs rounded up en masse as a population control measure), her film is about a relationship forged in a give-and-take that treats beast and human as emotional equals. Also Read: 'Fatima' Tops 'Mustang' to Win Big at France's Cesar Awards In fact, de Clermont-Tonnerres opening images are of freedom, captured explicitly from the perspective of the animals: a herd of mustangs at play, at rest, and roaming in a gorgeous mountain range, until the sound of whirring blades cuts through the sound of hooves, and a copter enters the wide frame to guide these horses into pens. Needless to say, the creatures dont respond well, their every kick and exhortation thick with agitated aggression. Story continues Just as significant in the filmmakers desire to link horse and human before they even meet, when the film cuts to a Nevada prison counselor (Connie Britton) evaluating a new transfer whos off-camera, we only hear the prisoners animalistic, unresponsive snorting. This is our introduction to Schoenaerts Roman, a barrel-chested, menacing and tight-lipped convict of many years trying to get out of isolation and into gen pop again, except, as he grunts to Britton, Im not good with people. Hes barely communicable even with his own pregnant teenage daughter (Gideon Adlon, Blockers), whose stone-faced visits suggest that whatever put Roman behind bars for 12 years (the horrific details of which we learn later), forgiveness has been difficult and parenting non-existent. Also Read: Margot Robbie, Matthias Schoenaerts to Star in Black List Thriller 'Ruin' Outdoor maintenance is where Roman finds himself, shoveling horse manure, until the sound of a buckskins furious kicking against the door of its sunless pen draws his attention. Schoenaerts eyes, simultaneously curious and wary, say it all: Is this inmate angrier than I am? Once accepted into the prisons horse-training program under crusty administrator Myles (a full-throttle Bruce Dern), and guided through the process by genial fellow inmate Henry (Jason Mitchell, Mudbound), Roman is forced to realize how much his unbridled rage prevents meaningful connection with others. De Clermont-Tonnerre doesnt shy from visually synching Romans breakthroughs with Marquis, the name he gives his ornery charge, with his own inner journey. After a lovely shot in which Marquis head silently, sensitively enters the frame to brush up against the dejected Roman representing their first true bonding she cuts to Roman inside the prison, at a window, the angle of which offers a reflection as bold as a mirrors. Also Read: Connie Britton Explains Her Plan to Keep You From Screaming at 'Dirty John's' Debra Every Week The filmmaker is aware that shes in Western territory, yet she judiciously deploys Ruben Impens (The Broken Circle Breakdown) textured cinematography, and the intimately boxy 1.66:1 aspect ratio, for classically mythic images only when they resonantly tweak the genres visual language: a line of men on horseback riding through a stunning landscape, for instance, accompanied only by a watchful prison vehicle. And while shes injected The Mustang with an appealingly non-judgmental depiction of penitentiary life, de Clermont-Tonnerre is less skillful breathing new life into certain prison-narrative tropes. The one vivid byproduct of a tepidly rendered subplot involving Romans threatening cellmate is that Schoenaerts, when required to unleash toxic masculine violence, is terrifyingly good at it. Thankfully hes just a magnetic actor overall, keen to the ways the physicality of brutish men is sometimes made hopelessly awkward by the injection of emotional healing. The horses magnificently do their part, too, as co-stars in this redemption saga, mostly because de Clermont-Tonnerre gives them plenty of screen time to be irritable, sad, manic, desperate, but also begrudging, friendly, spirited, and at peace. It says a lot about where The Mustang stands in the history of man-and-his-horse movies that when auction day arrives, and the camera pans across a line of changed prisoners sitting atop similarly becalmed, four-legged hardcases, I found myself scanning the horses faces to gauge what they were thinking. Read original story The Mustang Film Review: Matthias Schoenaerts Tames a Horse and Saves Himself in Prison Drama At TheWrap Rapper Meek Mill has become strongly associated with his home city of Philadelphia over the last few years. When the Philadelphia Eagles won the Super Bowl last year, they took the field to his song Dreams and Nightmares. Now, the city has officially honored the rapper by declaring March 15-17 Meek Mill Weekend, per The Philadelphia Inquirer. The timing has to do with Mill performing two concerts at the Met this Friday and Saturday, but the occasion is also meant to highlight everything the rapper has been doing to push for criminal justice reform, in his city and elsewhere. Born Robert Rihmeek Williams, Mill was sentenced to a two-year jail term in November 2017 over parole violations, which meant he was incarcerated when the Eagles won the Super Bowl. Fans and others horrified by what they saw as the injustice of his incarceration started the #FreeMeek movement. He was released in April 2018 by special order of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania after the Philadelphia District Attorneys office raised questions about the conduct of both the judge and the arresting officers in Mills case. Since his release, Mill has made a point of saying that his experience is not unique, and that many other black Americans get a raw deal in this countrys criminal justice system. In January, he co-founded the Reform Alliance alongside Jay-Z and Philadelphia 76ers owner Michael Rubin. The organization plans to fight for changes to the kinds of harsh parole laws that landed Mill in jail. Our foundation is focusing on probation and parole, Mill told the Inquirer and other Philadelphia media after the city hall event. That was the biggest obstacle that always stopped me in my life. You have kids that might make a mistake and get on probation. Smoke a joint and you might end up in the penitentiary for three years getting raised by a felon [This honor] is not a call-out for people to do crimes and not go to jail, Mill said. This is a call-out for people to get a fair chance. And thats what Im here fighting for. In news that is sure to rock many a stormy mom group, Facebook is taking new action against anti-vaxxers. The social networking giant announced on Thursday that it will reject ads that spread misinformation about vaccines and reduce the rank of groups and pages that share hoaxes so they will no longer show up in search recommendations or predications. Instead, Facebook is working to implement a plan by which accurate information about vaccines from expert organizations will appear at the top of search results. The move follows testimony from earlier this week by an Ohio teen who inoculated himself against his mothers wishes and told the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions that he attributes his mothers anti-vaccine ideology entirely to anti-vaxxer groups she interacted with on Facebook. I feel like if my mom didnt interact with that information, and she wasnt swayed by those arguments and stories, it couldve potentially changed everything, he told the committee. My entire family couldve been vaccinated. Amid new outbreaks of preventable diseases in the United States and around the world, Monika Bickert, Facebooks vice president for global policy management, told reporters on Thursday, People want to talk about health when they come to Facebook, and we want to make sure we are protecting that space for people. The anti-vaccine movement, in which parents refuse to vaccinate their children based on uncredited medical research that claims the injections are toxic and/or can cause autism, has, in part, led to a return of preventable infectious diseases. World health organizations said last year that reported cases of measles around the world increased by nearly a third in 2017. In 2018 alone, a total of 17 measles outbreaks occurred in the U.S., affecting 370 people and putting more at risk, according to a new New York Times op-ed jointly written by U.S. Surgeon General Jerome M. Adams and top officials at the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Just this week, The Seattle Times reported that in Washingtons Clark County, where there are 70 confirmed cases of measles, more than 800 children have been kept out of school for at least three weeks to prevent exposure to the highly contagious disease. Facebook, which has also sought to root out fake news in its midst, says that users will still be able express their opinions about whether or not they want to vaccinate their children. We want those conversations to happen, Bickert said. But if theyre sharing a specific hoax, thats when well take action. "Who is coming into this country, and who is coming into your school, that's been trained like this?" asked an instructor. "They've been trained for this all their lives." A PowerPoint slide projected in front of the classroom urged those caught in a firefight to listen carefully between gunshots for invocations of Allahu Akbar. "Pay attention to that," he said. "That's a clue." It is the first day of FASTER Saves Lives, a three-day seminar at which teachers and staff members learn to carry concealed handguns on campus. (I wrote about the experience earlier this year for GQ.) This instruction came during the introductory lecture, which was mostly an overview of the history of American gun violence but also featured a brief, startling aside: a slickly-produced and extremely graphic video of children stalking through an abandoned house, chasing down unarmed, screaming, handcuffed prisoners and executing them in the hallways. There were brains and bullet holes. One victim jumped off the roof to avoid being shot; the miniature soldiers looked down wordlessly at his crumpled body. The video in question, it turns out, was an ISIS propaganda film released in 2017. And the purpose of showing it to two dozen school employees, it turns out, was to warn them about the possible types of people they'd spend the next three days preparing to defeat in armed combat. Visually, it was not much different from the footage live-streamed by an Islamophobic terrorist on Friday, as he raced through two Christchurch mosques and killed 49 people in their houses of worship. Judging from the shocked facial expressions around the room, I was not the only participant who found this segment of the curriculum to be unsettling. But for some people, it seemed to have its intended effect: During the next break, there were a few spooked whispers about "sleeper cells" and the latent dangers they could pose to unsuspecting communities. "That video could change a lot of minds," one man said somberly. He was referring, of course, to public opinion about the controversial purpose for which we were all gathered in the first place: teaching teachers to exercise their Second Amendment rights to the fullest. Story continues I am thinking about this moment a lot today, particularly as I read excerpts from the Christchurch shooter's trolling manifesto. It is littered with sarcastic, innuendo-laden Internet-speakin-jokes that racists deploy to protest accusations of racism while winking at allies who find such accusations hilarious. (He credits Fortnite for teaching him to floss of the corpses of my enemies, for example, and Spyro the Dragona kids' video gamefor introducing him to ethnonationalism.) But even if there are elements of a trolling performance, his invocations of the Second Amendment reveal a keen understanding that guns, especially in the United States, can provide a dependably easy entry point for those who traffic in hate to reach people who may be susceptible to that message. "I chose firearms for the affect [sic] it would have on social discourse, the extra media coverage they would provide, and the affect [sic] it could have on the politics of the United States and thereby the political situation of the world," he wrote. Under sufficient "pressure," he said, the country's gun-safety faction would seek to abolish the Second Amendment, and the gun-rights contingent would react to this threat in kind, prompting a "dramatic polarization of the people" and a "fracturing...along cultural and racial lines." Whether the shooter intended this as sincere or not, what remains is that he is participating in a dialogue of white supremacist violencelike Norwegian far-right terrorist Anders Breivik and Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeighwhich is rooted in both hate and a particular strain of gun rights ideology. At its core, the Second Amendment's pro-gun rationale is fueled by fear: The notion that Americans need guns because someone out there is hell-bent on harming them, and will succeed at their task unless vigilant citizens stop them first. As Nathan Wuertenberg chronicled for the Washington Post last year, gun ownership has historically been an important method of preserving power among white men over other groups. Many colonies barred women, slaves, and Native Americans from buying guns; the Klan took them from former slaves after emancipation; Jim Crow laws prohibited or otherwise restricted black gun ownership. Both Breivik and McVeigh were fans of The Turner Diaries, a book that discusses the prospect of bombing a federal building in the context of government attempts to repeal the Second Amendment. Although firearms are available to far more people today than they were 50 or 100 or 200 years ago, white men are still the ones who buy most of them. Tragedies like the Christchurch shootings happen with grim regularity in the United States, but are rare in New Zealand. As the New York Times noted, since 2007, the country's annual total of gun homicides has hit double digits exactly once: 11, in 2009. To put that number in perspective, two mass shootings that took place on consecutive days earlier this yearin Aurora, Illinois on February 15, and Clinton, Mississippi on February 16yielded the same body count. Put differently, this was not a thing in New Zealand, until bad people there looked at the international headlines and realized it could become one. Now, the Internet's ability to quietly radicalize anyone, anywhere has helped make American-style gun violence one of this country's most distinctive cultural exports. The object of this requisite fear can shift frequently, as often as some combination of exploitable headlines, cultural shifts, and age-old prejudices allow it. One day, the danger might be from masked muggers or black-clad home invaders; the next, a fast-approaching migrant caravan; the next, an unhinged school shooter; the next, creeping socialism; the one after that, the nearest person whose religious beliefs require them to wear a garment that covers their head. The precise identity of the villain du jour doesn't matter, really, as long as a villain du jour exists. This is why bewildered schoolteachers learning to protect their students from gun violence ended up having to watch an ISIS snuff film first: The moral rightness of armed self-defense becomes self-evident when people think they know what the enemy looks like. Too often, an insidious, deep-seated cultural animus towards brown people is the awful byproduct of this process. George Rudy/Shutterstock Jessica Caron was 21 when she was diagnosed with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), a term describing conditions that cause chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Her symptoms were brutal: abdominal pain, bloating, and an urgent need to run to the bathroom. But even after she found the right treatment, Caron, a Goshen, New Hampshire native, still worriedespecially about her future. How would her IBD affect her chances of one day getting pregnant, not to mention giving birth to a healthy baby? Women make up about half the 1.6 million people in the United States living with IBD. And since medication is required to keep the condition under control, pregnancy can seem daunting. "Many women with IBD opt for voluntary childlessness because they fear a negative outcome," says Christopher Robinson, M.D., MSCR, a working group member of the IBD Parenthood Project and maternal-fetal medicine physician at Roper St. Francis Healthcare and Summerville Medical Center in Summerville, South Carolina. Caron isn't one of them. She saw four doctors before finding one who listened to her concerns and was eager to help her start a family. "He really took my life goals as our treatment goals," she says. Today, she has two boys, ages 3 and 6. Happily, she's also been in remission since 2015. "Now," says Caron, "I can focus on being a parent." So you can rest assured that even if you have IBD, getting pregnant is possible, and so is having a normal pregnancy. Here are a few things to keep in mind in order to bring your bundle of joy into the world when living with IBD. Find a gastroenterologist you can talk to Although gastroenterologists (GI) specialize in gut health, they should take your feelings into account, too. "I tell my IBD patients: we're working collaboratively. We need to trust each other," says Rajeev Jain, M.D., AGAF, FACP, IBD Parenthood Project co-chair and a gastroenterologist with Texas Digestive Disease Consultants in Dallas. "If they don't trust me, they may not follow the recommendations I make." And patients who learn "more about their illness will get better care," adds Dr. Jain. Story continues Once you've found the right doctor? Know it's never too early to start the conversation about wanting to have a baby one day! Expand your team of doctors Besides your GI, you need some other medical experts to chime in about your family planning. The first step is getting an ObGyn, and then look for a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, (an ObGyn specialized in treating pregnant women with chronic health problems). Depending on the extent of your IBD, you may also need to consult a colorectal surgeon. It also could be helpful to get a nutritionist, lactation consultant, or a psychiatrist if some extra emotional support is needed. Get things under control before you conceive Once you mentally decide you're ready to be a mom, you'll wish you were pregnant ASAP. Be patient! "For women with IBD, the most important factor of a successful pregnancy is having their condition under control," says Dr. Jain. The right medication will help. So may managing stress since evidence shows it can lead to IBD relapse. It's also important to treat any other conditions that may arise, such as Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), in which too much gut bacteria grows in your small intestine. "SIBO can occur in patients with IBD if they've had previous bowel surgery," explains Dr. Jain. It's critical that you're in remission 3 to 6 months before you begin trying to conceive. That may seem like an eternity, but if you're able to manage your IBD and have never needed surgery because of it, your chances of getting pregnant will be about the same as the average woman. Plus, studies show that women who are in remission that long are less likely to have an IBD flare up during and after pregnancy. That bodes better for your health and the health of your baby. Evaluate your medications It's legit to worry about what the drugs you're taking will do to your fertilityand the baby growing inside you. But that doesn't mean you have to go off of your IBD medication! "A lot of physicians see someone with IBD who's pregnant and doing great and tell her to get off the medication that's controlling her bowel disease," Dr. Jain says. "It's a huge misconception." While not as extensively studied as other meds, most IBD drugs are nearly always appropriate to take during pregnancy. And while they may have some side effects, "the benefits of taking these medications and staying in remission during pregnancy far outweighs any risks," says Dr. Jain. Bottom line: Never stop your IBD treatment without first talking to your doctor. You could bring on a flare that potentially risks your pregnancy. Discuss your delivery Many women with IBD are concerned they'll have to give birth via C-section. If you have perianal diseasethat is, complications around your rectum or anusor have had a special surgery related to your IBD, that may be the case. If not, and if you've been monitored throughout your pregnancy, "you can probably anticipate a normal delivery," Dr. Robinson says. Your doctor will likely talk about this with you around 35 weeks when you get your B strep test. Try not to worry Studies show up to 40 percent of people with IBD can struggle with anxiety, but there are plenty of reasons to take a deep breath and try to relax. In many cases, you'll be able to safely breastfeed while still taking your meds. And just because you have IBD doesn't mean your new baby automatically will, too. There's only a 3 percent chance you'll pass on the disease, according to the IBD Parenthood Project. (Keep in mind, that number rises to 30 percent if both you and your partner have IBD.) We all love pie. But some states love certain pies whether it be buttermilk pie or crawfish pie (Louisiana, we're looking at you) more than others. This year for Pi Day, Google looked at data from March 5th to March 12th for the most uniquely search pies by state. According to a press representative, Google compared top "pie" searches in each state to top "pie" searches across the U.S. to identify which types of pie people search for disproportionately more at the state level. Below, see the winners for every Southern state. Some were shoo-ins like buttermilk pie and peanut butter pie. But there were also some curveballs for instance, the quirky millionaire pie taking the cake (erm, pie) for Texas and pecan pie only reigning supreme in one Southern state (and New Mexico). Scroll down to see what your state is craving. WATCH: Strawberry-Pretzel Icebox Pie Alabama: Buttermilk pie Arkansas: Buttermilk pie Delaware: Shepherd's pie Florida: Key lime pie Georgia: Buttermilk pie Kentucky: Peanut butter pie Louisiana: Crawfish pie Maryland: Pumpkin pie Mississippi: Buttermilk pie Missouri: Coconut cream pie North Carolina: Sweet potato pie Oklahoma: Chocolate pie South Carolina: Pecan pie Tennessee: Buttermilk pie Texas: Millionaire pie Virginia: Butterscotch pie Washington, D.C.: Pecan Pie West Virginia: Peanut butter pie Not feeling the search data? Check out the lost pies of the South and whip up one of these storied confections with special Southern roots. Photo credit: Getty Images From Women's Health Inviting Grandma over for dinner may actually extend her life-and increase its quality-a new study shows. Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco found that loneliness plays a large role in the decline so often associated with old age. The study followed 1,600 adults, with an average age of 71-despite controlling for socioeconomic status and health, the lonely consistently held higher mortality rates. Nearly 23% of lonely participants died within six years of the study, as opposed to only 14% of those that reported adequate companionship. "The need we've had our entire lives-people who know us, value us, who bring us joy-that never goes away," Barbara Moscowitz, senior geriatric social worker at Massachusetts General Hospital, explained to The New York Times. The elderly place great value in those relationships, so much so that they often overlook a great deal more than their children or even their grandchildren do. It comes down to important relational skills, Rosemary Blieszner, a professor of human development at Virginia Tech, told The New York Times-skills that our grandparents have had a lifetime to hone. "They're pretty tolerant of friends' imperfections and idiosyncrasies, more than young adults," she said. "You bring a lot more experience to your friendships when you're older. You know what's worth fighting about and not worth fighting about." Beyond inviting our older relatives and friends into our homes, it's important to encourage elderly relationships-which is why, despite popular belief, older folks tend to thrive in independent or assisted living environments. These living arrangements provide more ways to mingle, to connect, to thrive. Spending quality time with Grandma and Grandpa helps them, but it benefits us, as well-the symbiotic relationship is undeniable. They get the companionship and conversation so crucial to every day life, and we get their stories, their hugs and, best of all, those famous, secret recipe cookies. Story continues [h/t The New York Times] ('You Might Also Like',) Presidential candidate Beto O'Rourke said Saturday that being a white man in a 2020 Democratic field that's so deeply diverse won't be a hindrance because his gender and race have given him inherent advantages for years. While he'd spoken before about his gender and race, O'Rourke had largely dodged campaign-trail questions about whether his party would go for a white man in a year when a historic number of women and minorities are running to deny President Donald Trump a second term. "I would never begin by saying that it's a disadvantage at all," O'Rourke told reporters in a parking lot in Waterloo, after giving a speech at the campaign kickoff for state Senate candidate Eric Giddens. "As a white man who has had privileges that others could not depend on or take for granted, I've clearly had advantages over the course of my life." The former Texas congressman was making a series of stops in Iowa, the state that kicks off the presidential nominating process. Also campaigning Saturday were Sens. Amy Klobuchar, Kirsten Gillibrand, Cory Booker and Bernie Sanders, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee and former Vice President Joe Biden. O'Rourke called recognizing that and "doing everything I can to ensure that there is opportunity, and the possibility for advancement and advantage for everyone," a big part of the campaign he's running. O'Rourke said he believes the Democrats seeking the White House in 2020 encompass "the best field that we've ever seen in the nominating process," praising its "diversity of background and experience" and expertise. He had already said he'd stop making a joke he'd frequently repeated about how his wife, Amy, raising the couple's three young children "sometimes with my help." O'Rourke said that he'd discussed scrapping the joke with Amy and, while she said she understood he was trying to note that she was "taking on the lion's share" of parenting responsibilities, "it came off sounding a little flip." Story continues Other highlights of Saturday's campaigning: AMY KLOBUCHAR Democratic presidential candidate Amy Klobuchar criticized Trump for his response to the deadly attacks in two New Zealand mosques, telling voters in Iowa "it's our job to stand up against" white supremacism. Trump played down the threat posed by white nationalism on Friday after the mosque massacre that left at least 50 people dead. The man accused of the shootings has described himself as a white nationalist who hates immigrants. Klobuchar spoke about the shooting during a campaign stop in Waterloo, Iowa. The Minnesota senator referenced Trump's comments after a white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, in 2017 when he said "both sides" were to blame for violence. "That other side was white supremacism," she said. On the policy front, Klobuchar said in Dubuque that as president she would put forward a major infrastructure program that would help address flooding that is hitting parts of the Midwest. Waterloo and Dubuque, both riverfront communities, were bracing for flooding from this year's heavy snowfall. "We have not been investing like we should" in infrastructure, she said. One option to fund a plan, she said, would be raising the corporate tax rate, which was cut in Trump's 2017 tax bill. JAY INSLEE Washington Gov. Jay Inslee called on Republicans to stop following Trump on the issue of climate change. He said until the GOP joins "the scientific world and the rest of humanity in defeating climate change," only one thing can be done: "Republicans must be defeated, and we should do that every chance we get. I'm totally committed to that." Voters have "exactly one chance left to defeat climate change," Inslee said. "And that's during the next administration," he said. Campaigning in New Hampshire, Inslee tied his climate change push to the current debate over whether to end the filibuster in the U.S. Senate. "Anything that gets in the way of defeating climate change needs to go," he said. Inslee also criticized Trump for his remarks after the New Zealand shootings, saying the president "uses exactly the same language of this monster who shot Muslims and talked about the invaders." He said the president "continually looks for dog whistles to spread hate rather than for looking for ways to search for the better angels of our nature." KIRSTEN GILLIBRAND Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand championed public service opportunities during a campaign stop in New Hampshire, saying the work could help treat some of the woes facing the country today. The Democratic presidential hopeful said public service "changes your life." "That's why I want national service," she said. "That's why I want to make it the cornerstone of my presidency." The New York senator held a civic service round table in Manchester as she finishes a two-day swing through the first-in-the-nation primary state. "I would like to tell anyone in America, if you're willing to do two years of public service, you can get your college degree paid for," she said. "So if you're willing to do a year and only a year, you can get two years paid for." CORY BOOKER The New Jersey senator criticized Trump's "bigoted, sexist rhetoric" as "dangerous," but declined to fault him in the New Zealand mosque massacre. "The president's rhetoric his bigoted rhetoric, his sexist rhetoric ... and here we have a president that can't even condemn Nazis is that dangerous? Yeah, it's dangerous," he told reporters in Ottumwa, Iowa, "I'm not connecting it to any incidents," he continued, "but we know that there are white supremacist groups and right-wing groups that use his rhetoric as license for what they do. They talk about him being on their side. And that's unacceptable." Booker said if elected president, he would instruct the Justice Department to investigate hate groups and "unequivocally denounce" hatred. BETO O'ROURKE Speaking to about 100 people at the public library in Independence, Iowa, O'Rourke said that as president he'd make sure there is "no military intervention in Venezuela or anywhere in the Western Hemisphere." He pointed to a CIA-led coup in Guatemala in the 1950s as proof that U.S. military action in the hemisphere can have decades of unintended, negative consequences. A fluent Spanish speaker from El Paso, across the Rio Grande from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, O'Rourke noted earlier in the day that he's the only 2020 candidate from the border "at a time that that dominates so much of our national conversation and legislative efforts and the things that the president talks about." "There's one candidate whose there to talk about the profoundly positive impact that immigrants have had on our safety and our security, as well as our success and our strength," he said. Following a house party in Dubuque, O'Rourke was asked if he would commit to choosing a female running mate should he win the nomination. "That would be my preference," he said and later added: "It would be very difficult not to select a woman with so many extraordinary women who are running right now. But first I would have to win." BILL De BLASIO New York Mayor Bill de Blasio championed his progressive values during a trip to New Hampshire as he flirts with running for president. The Democrat is in New Hampshire this weekend for a two-day visit. He also met with New Hampshire Democratic chairman Ray Buckley as several presidential contenders spent the last two days campaigning across the state. "We have to be a country that rewards working people," de Blasio said during a speech. The mayor didn't receive a warm welcome from everyone, however. A vehicle sporting a large sign saying "Mayor Bill de Blasio is no friend of labor" could be seen outside the bar where the Democrat gave his speech Saturday night. He also said a decision on whether to run for president would come "sooner rather than later." "When we know we're there, we'll tell ya," de Blasio said. JOE BIDEN Former Vice President Joe Biden might have let on that he's leaning toward running for the White House again. Or it may just have been a slip of the tongue. In a keynote speech at a Saturday dinner for the Delaware Democratic Party, Biden boasted that he has "the most progressive record of anybody running." But Biden hasn't announced whether he is running again for president. He quickly corrected himself, saying "anybody who would run I didn't mean it. Anybody who would run." Cheers nearly drowned out his correction. Although Biden has been known to go off script, his remark is likely to be viewed as a Washington-style gaffe a case of accidentally telling the truth. Biden pushed Democratic policies and accused President Donald Trump of dividing the country. Biden, 76, who served as President Barack Obama's closest adviser, is the only major contender still on the sidelines and has suggested he could remain there for several more weeks. BERNIE SANDERS Sen. Bernie Sanders spoke to a crowd of at least 1,000 people in a sunny park in a suburb of Las Vegas, the Vermont senator's first appearance this year in Nevada, where he gave Hillary Clinton a surprisingly strong challenge in the 2016 caucuses before she edged out a win. Sanders, who received stitches Friday after cutting his head on the edge of a glass shower door, was sporting a large bandage on his head and a black eye along with a Vegas Golden Knights hockey team hat. "A little black eye is not going to stop me," Sanders said. Sanders barely made note of the crowded Democratic field, saying only that his policies that were once seen as too radical, including a $15-an-hour minimum wage, have now become mainstream. He pitched his campaign as a crusade for justice in all forms social, economic, racial and environmental that will defeat President Donald Trump with the help of an "unprecedented grassroots effort." ___ Woodall reported from Exeter, New Hampshire. Associated Press writers Sara Burnett and Will Weissert in Waterloo, Iowa; Alexandra Jaffe in Ottumwa, Iowa; Michelle Price in Las Vegas; and Brian Slodysko in Dover, Delaware, contributed to this report. By Allison Lampert and Debroop Roy (Reuters) - Air Canada and United Airlines on Friday became the first major carriers in North America to warn of negative impacts on business due to the grounding of Boeing Co's 737 MAX planes. Air Canada suspended its 2019 financial forecasts, saying it continued to adapt a contingency plan to address the current uncertainty surrounding the new jets. United Airlines, the No. 3 U.S. carrier, said it would see an adverse effect on its operations if the jets remained grounded heading into the peak summer travel season. Countries around the world, including the United States and Canada, banned Boeing's fast-selling 737 MAX this week after a fatal Ethiopian Airlines plane crash on Sunday, the second deadly disaster for the aircraft in five months. Shares of Air Canada fell as much as 3 percent in early trading in Toronto, but recovered later to close down 0.7 percent. Shares of United Continental Holdings Inc, the parent of United Airlines, were unchanged at $81.69 in U.S. after-hours trade. Airlines bought the 737 MAX for its longer range and fuel efficiency, and some carriers' business plans are facing disruption because of the grounding, which U.S. lawmakers have said could last for weeks at a minimum. The causes of Sunday's crash are still unknown. Boeing suspended deliveries of its 737 MAX aircraft on Thursday but continues to produce its single-aisle jets at full speed. Montreal-based Air Canada has said it operated seventy-five 737 MAX flights daily out of a total schedule of approximately 1,600 flights system-wide. Chicago, Illinois-based United Continental operates 14 737 MAX 9 aircraft that accounted for about 40 flights a day. Air Canada, the country's largest carrier, has been renewing its narrowbody fleet with MAX aircraft to replace its existing Airbus A320 narrowbodies. It had expected to expand its fleet of 24 MAX jets to 36 by the end of 2019. The Canadian carrier would face the costs of re-booking passengers after the planes were grounded, and other costs from not having scheduled access to the more efficient MAX, said AltaCorp analyst Chris Murray. Story continues The airline estimated that savings on fuel and maintenance costs would make the MAX 8 aircraft 11 percent cheaper to operate per available seat mile (CASM) than its existing Airbus A320s. CASM is a closely watched industry metric. Murray said he expected Air Canada to find a way to "mitigate" the impact of higher costs, and noted the company's forecast for annual profit margin remained in place for 2020 and 2021, suggesting this would be "a short term disruption." The grounding of planes has left U.S. and Canadian carriers wrestling with customer calls and flight cancellations. Southwest Airlines, the world's largest MAX operator with 34 jets, and American Airlines with 24 MAX in its fleet, both declined to comment on Friday. Canada's WestJet Airlines, which operates 13 of the jets, could not be immediately reached for comment. (Reporting by Debroop Roy and Ankit Ajmera in Bengaluru and Allison Lampert in Montreal; Additional reporting by Sweta Singh in Bengaluru and Tracy Rucinski in Chicago; Editing by Nick Zieminski, Steve Orlofsky and Maju Samuel) Thousands of schoolchildren across the U.S. will be protesting on Friday, uniting with young people around the globe in a goal they believe is critical to their collective future: pressuring world leaders into acting on climate change, particularly to cut carbon emissions over the next decade in order to reduce the extent of global warming. March 15 is going to make history, 13-year-old Alexandria Villasenor, a co-founder of the U.S. Youth Climate Strike, tells TIME. There has never been a global day of climate action where students around the world are taking action for the same exact cause. Young people in nearly 100 countries, including China, Uganda, New Zealand and Chile, are striking in solidarity on the same day, according to Villasenor. In the U.S., the movement was primarily organized by three schoolkids Villasenor of New York, Haven Coleman of Colorado and Isra Hirsi of Minnesota (who also happens to be the daughter of freshman member of Congress Illan Omar) with an assist from hundreds of teens and tweens on the state and local level. The teens, who expect about 100,000 students to protest on Friday, collaborated via Google docs, late-night conference calls and Slack to garner support from thousands of young people from across the country in less than two months. Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg (C) takes part in a demonstration of students calling for climate protection on March 1, 2019, in front of the Hamburg City Hall in Germany. Coleman, 12, says the fight is a personal one. [Climate change] has been affecting my whole life, its going to be affecting everybody in my future. The tween says she personally felt the effects when she had difficulty breathing due to the smoke from last years wildfires in California. That was scary, she says. It hurt to breathe. The devastation of last years wildfire season was also a wake-up call for Villasenor. The deadliest fire in Californias history, the Camp Fire, broke out when she was visiting family in Davis, Calif. Villasenors family lives about an hour away from Paradise, where the wildfire killed dozens and ravaged the community. She says the smoke was so bad for her asthma that her family had to fly her out of California early back to New York City. Story continues That was really scary for me and traumatic, she says, and recalls seeing ambulances pick up people who dropped on the sides of streets because of the smoke. Villasenor says that experience prompted her to research climate change, I decided that, my generation, since it will be affected the most by climate change, I need to start taking actions now, she says. She has also skipped school every Friday since last December to protest in front of the U.N. Jerome Foster II, 16, helps organize the strike in Washington, D.C., and says working alongside so many other young people is empowering and motivating. Balancing activism and school is challenging for Foster, who is in his junior year in high school. He interns for Congressman John Lewis and works for the Obama Foundation as a liaison for the youth. I am striking not just to strike, he says. But striking because climate change is bigger than any other things that are going on in my life now. Jerome Foster II, 16, poses for a picture at the Climate Reality Leadership Conference in Atlanta, Georgia on March 14, 2019. Its been like a ticking time bomb type situation where we have 11 years left at this point to fix climate change and to make sure we are leaving a sustainable earth for the future generations, Isabel Hope, who helps organize the strike from Tuscaloosa, Ala., says, referring to a report published by the U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which said temperature rise will increase the risk of heat waves and heavy rainfall events resulting in even more severe wildfires and hurricanes. Politicians in Alabama have been extremely silent on the issue of climate and global warming, Hope says. Alabama may not be the ideal environment for U.S. climate activists, [but] it does not mean that we are going to let our community be crushed by climate change. Villasenor said the young people in the movement cant wait until they are in positions of power to make change, because by then it will be too late for my generation. We dont have any time to waste. As a first-time organizer, Villasenor was partly inspired by Greta Thunberg, a 16-year-old Swedish activist who started the first school strike for climate outside her countrys parliament building in August 2018, and was just nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize for her work. Her strike has sparked youth protests across Europe and Australia. Although no concrete policy changes have happened since the movement started, Villasenor believes this time is going to be different. This is different because now the whole world is involved, says Villasenor, who expresses confidence in creating changes with the strike on March 15. Hope echoes that sentiment, I am seeing it from all of the organizers across the globe: I am seeing the passion, I am seeing the extreme work ethic that all of us share. The group says they hope to raise awareness about the urgency of addressing climate change through the March 15 school strike, but they are not stopping there. The youth activists say they are already planning another global climate strike in May. We will not be stopping, Villasenor says. We are going to do really whatever it takes. CANBERRA, Australia (AP) An Australian senator had a raw egg cracked over his head and faces censure from his fellow lawmakers after sparking outrage by blaming Muslim immigration for the New Zealand mosque shootings. Sen. Fraser Anning came under blistering criticism over tweets on Friday including one that said, "Does anyone still dispute the link between Muslim immigration and violence?" "The real cause of the bloodshed on New Zealand streets today is the immigration program which allowed Muslim fanatics to migrate to New Zealand in the first place," he said in a statement. Television cameras caught a 17-year-old boy breaking an egg on Anning's head and briefly scuffling with the independent senator while he was holding a news conference Saturday in Melbourne. Police said the boy was arrested but was released without charge pending a further investigation. No motive was offered for the egging. The government and opposition party agreed to pass a censure motion against Anning over his stance on the Christchurch shootings when Parliament resumes in April. While such a reprimand is a symbolic gesture, the major parties expect to demonstrate how isolated Anning's views are among Australia's 226 federal lawmakers. The major parties' support ensures the censure motion will be passed by both chambers. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said he denounced Anning's comments. "In his conflation of this horrendous terrorist attack with issues of immigration, in his attack on Islamic faith specifically these comments are appalling and they're ugly and they have no place in Australia, in the Australian Parliament," Morrison said. "He should be, frankly, ashamed of himself." Bilal Rauf, spokesman for the Australian National Imams Council, the nation's top Muslim group, likened the senator's views to the rambling manifesto published online by suspect Brenton Tarrant before the slayings. Story continues "When one looks at his statement, it may as well have been an extract from the manifesto of the person that perpetrated these heinous crimes, this act of terrorism in Christchurch," Rauf said. Rauf said Anning was unfit for the Senate. Opposition lawmaker Penny Wong accused Anning of attempting to use the tragedy to grab attention ahead of elections in May. Anning only received 19 votes in the last election in 2016. But because of a quirk in the Australian electoral system, he was elevated to the Senate by the anti-immigration, anti-Muslim One Nation party after a court ruled that its senator, Malcolm Roberts, had not been eligible to run for election due to his dual citizenship. Anning later defected from One Nation to another anti-immigration party, then became an independent. Analysts say Anning is unlikely to be re-elected as an independent candidate in May. Anning was widely condemned for his first speech to the Senate in August advocating reviving a white-only immigration policy and using the term "final solution" in calling for a vote on which migrants to admit into the country. Critics accused him of making a veiled reference to the Nazi extermination of Jews. The government also announced on Saturday it had banned right-wing commentator Milo Yiannopoulos from touring the country over his social media response to the Christchurch shootings. Immigration Minister David Coleman said Yiannopoulos' social media comments are "appalling and foment hatred and division." Coleman didn't specify which comments he was referring to. Yiannopoulos said on Facebook that attacks like Christchurch happen because "the establishment panders to and mollycoddles extremist leftism and barbaric, alien religious cultures." Lawmakers within Australia's conservative government had been quarreling in recent weeks over whether the firebrand commentator should be allowed to tour Australia this year. By William James and Alistair Smout LONDON (Reuters) - The Northern Irish party that is crucial to Prime Minister Theresa May's hopes of getting her twice-defeated Brexit deal through parliament said it had good talks with British ministers on Friday but differences remained over the Irish border. The United Kingdom's divorce from the European Union has sown chaos throughout May's premiership and the Brexit finale is still uncertain. Options include a long delay, exiting with May's deal, leaving without a deal or even another referendum. May has essentially handed Brexit supporters an ultimatum - ratify her deal by Wednesday or face a long delay to Brexit that would open up the possibility that Britain never even leaves. To succeed, she must win over dozens of Brexit-supporting rebels in her own Conservative Party and the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which has 10 MPs in parliament. "We have had good discussions today. Those discussions will continue," DUP deputy leader Nigel Dodds said after talks with government ministers in London. "We want to get a deal. There has been progress made," he told reporters. "We don't want to leave without a deal but a lot will depend in terms of what the government can do on providing those guarantees that are necessary." He said the British government was "very focussed" on addressing the issue of the Irish backstop, an insurance policy that sets out what happens to the Irish border after Brexit. Aimed at avoiding post-Brexit controls on the border between the UK province of Northern Ireland and EU-member Ireland, the backstop has been a constant sticking point as May tries to push her deal through. Many Brexiteers and the DUP are concerned it will trap the United Kingdom in the EU's orbit indefinitely, and have sought guarantees it will not. The DUP said Dodds was returning to Northern Ireland on Friday evening. He would be in phone contact with the government over the weekend and return to London for more talks on Monday. Story continues After three dramatic days in parliament this week, lawmakers voted on Thursday to have the government ask the EU for a delay beyond the date Britain is scheduled to leave - March 29. MINIMISE DELAY May says she wants to minimise any delay in leaving the EU to just three months, but to achieve that she will need parliament to back her deal at the third time of asking early next week, possibly Tuesday. Her deal, an attempt to keep close relations with the EU while leaving the bloc's formal structures, was defeated by 230 votes in parliament on Jan. 15 and by 149 votes on March 12. She needs 75 MPs to change their vote. If she can swing the DUP behind her, along with several dozen hardliners in her own party, she will be getting close to the numbers she needs. A handful of Conservatives are unlikely ever to be satisfied but she may draw in a small number of Labour MPs. "There will be Conservatives who vote against it come what may, that's why in order for it to pass three things have to happen: she has to get the DUP on board, she has to persuade as many as possible of the 75 (Brexiteer) Conservatives to vote for it, and she will almost certainly need more Labour MPs," said John Whittingdale, a Conservative lawmaker and member of the pro-Brexit faction. "If she can deliver those three things then it might scrape through, but it's a hell of a big mountain to climb." ORDERLY FASHION May's de-facto deputy, Cabinet Office Minister David Lidington, said he hoped the United Kingdom would leave in an orderly fashion but if May's deal was not approved then a long extension was on the cards. "I hope that MPs (lawmakers) of all parties will be over this weekend reflecting on the way forward," Lidington told BBC radio, adding the legal default was still that Britain would leave on March 29, unless something else is agreed. EU leaders will consider pressing Britain to delay Brexit by at least a year to find a way out of the domestic maelstrom. Britons voted to leave the EU in a June 2016 referendum. However Brexit comes about, opponents of the divorce worry that it will divide the West as it grapples with the U.S. presidency of Donald Trump and growing assertiveness from Russia and China. Supporters of Brexit say that while it may bring some short-term instability, in the longer term Britain will thrive if it moves away from what they cast as a doomed experiment in European integration that is falling behind global powers such as the United States and China. (Writing by Guy Faulconbridge and Giles Elgood; Editing by Michael Holden, Janet Lawrence, Jon Boyle and Frances Kerry) WASHINGTON (AP) Rick Gates, a former Trump campaign aide and key cooperator in the special counsel's Russia probe, is not ready to be sentenced because he continues to help with "several ongoing investigations," prosecutors said in a court filing Friday. Gates is a central figure in special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation of Russian election interference and possible coordination with the Trump campaign. But he is also helping federal authorities in New York who are looking into Trump's inaugural committee as well as lobbying on behalf of foreign interests by prominent Washington insiders. The joint filing by Mueller's office and Gates' attorneys comes amid signs the Russia investigation is winding down. But it's unclear if Friday's delay is an indication that Mueller may submit his confidential report soon or if it's related to the status of the other investigations. The filing asked for another 60 days to update U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson on whether Gates can proceed to sentencing. The judge granted the request later Friday. Gates pleaded guilty last year to conspiracy and false statement charges related to Ukrainian lobbying and political consulting he carried out with former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, who has been sentenced to more than seven years in prison. Gates helped the government in obtaining a trial conviction of Manafort last year. Prosecutors have noted that he continues to provide information about Manafort's time on the Trump campaign, though neither man has been charged with any crimes related to Russian election interference. Still, Mueller prosecutor Andrew Weissmann, who led the Manafort case, told a federal judge earlier this year that a meeting Gates attended with Manafort in August 2016 went to the "heart" of the Russia investigation. The meeting at the Grand Havana Room cigar club in New York was with Konstantin Kilimnik, a longtime Manafort associate who the FBI says has ties to Russian intelligence. Story continues Prosecutors have not revealed exactly what piqued their interest in the meeting, though court papers show it involved a discussion of a possible Russia-Ukraine peace plan. Separately, federal prosecutors in New York are investigating the Presidential Inaugural Committee, where Gates served in a senior role. Investigators are looking into whether foreigners illegally contributed to the committee, which raised $107 million for Trump's inaugural events, and how that money was spent. The same office is also investigating lobbying for Ukraine in which Gates was involved. ___ Read AP's coverage of the Russia probe: https://apnews.com/TrumpInvestigations ___ Follow Chad Day on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChadSDay Washington (AFP) - Star Latina actress Rosario Dawson is in a relationship with Senator Cory Booker, one of more than a dozen Democrats seeking the party's nomination to run for president in 2020, Dawson confirmed on Thursday. While Booker has long been intensely private about his relationships, Dawson confirmed it on camera to celebrity news website TMZ as she walked through Washington's National Airport. Were the rumors true? asked the TMZ reporter. "Yes. Very much so," Dawson replied, adding: "So far, so wonderful. He's a wonderful human being. It's good to spend some time together when we can." Dawson debuted in the awarding-winning 1995 film "Kids," featured in the 2005 movie version of the musical "Rent," and also starred in Spike Lee's "He Got Game" and "25th Hour," the "Sin City" franchise and numerous other films. But she is also a veteran political activist in her own right, especially as co-founder of the VotoLatino group, which encourages young Hispanic-Americans to vote. Neither has been married but Dawson, 39 and of Puerto Rican and Cuban background, brushed off a question of whether she and Booker, 49, an African-American, could eventually wed. "I am just grateful to be with someone I respect and love and admire so much," she said. Asked if Booker would be a good president, Dawson added, "I think so. He's an amazing human being." CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) In the week since a massive blackout left millions in Venezuela without power, both the government and opposition have put forward disputing theories on what caused the outage without providing any evidence. Now two Venezuelans with expertise in engineering and geospatial technologies say they've analyzed NASA satellite imagery indicating there were three fires within close proximity to transmission lines that could have crippled the country's electric grid. The sleuths took data from a weather satellite that can detect thermal activity and superimposed it on Google Earth images to put together what may be the most concrete analysis yet of what transpired on March 7. "There is still a possibility that something else happened," said Jose Aguilar, an expert on Venezuela's electrical grid who coordinated the study. "But this is very incriminating." The power outage plunged a nation already reeling from political and economic tumult into even deeper disarray as hospitals struggled to care for their neediest patients and desperate Venezuelans grappled to find food and water. Within hours of the attack, the government of embattled President Nicolas Maduro began accusing the U.S. of a cyberattack. Maduro has stuck to that narrative, saying hackers in the U.S. first shut down the Guri Dam and then delivered several "electromagnetic" blows. Engineers have questioned that assertion, contending that the Guri Dam's operating system is on a closed network with no internet connection. Several consulted by The Associated Press speculated that a more likely cause was a fire along one of the electrical grid's powerful 765-kilovolt lines that connect the dam to much of Venezuela. The transmission lines traverse through some of Venezuela's most remote and difficult to access regions on their way toward Caracas, making it difficult to obtain any first-hand information that could back up or pinpoint the location of a fire. Story continues Working with an expert at Texas Tech University's Geospatial Technologies Laboratory, Aguilar said satellite data indicates that on the day of the blackout there were three fires in close proximity to the 765-kilovolt lines transmitting power generated from the Guri Dam, which provides about 80 percent of Venezuela's electricity. He said that a fire on even one of the three lines near the blazes could have been catastrophic. "A fire of that nature has enough power to cripple the whole system," he said. Their analysis also shows that fires broke out one day before the blackout near several lesser-voltage lines that could have also weakened the system. Engineers have warned for years that Venezuela's state-run electricity corporation was failing to properly maintain power lines, letting brush that can catch fire during Venezuela's hot, dry months to grow near and up the towering structures. Aguilar said that despite the data to support a fire, he still couldn't entirely discredit the possibility that something else crippled Venezuela's power supply, saying he'd need to review dispatch center files to conclude definitively. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A dissident organization committed to overthrowing North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was behind a raid on the North Korean embassy in Spain last month, The Washington Post reported on Friday, quoting people familiar with the planning and execution of the mission. The newspaper, which did not further identify its sources, identified the group as Cheollima Civil Defense, which also goes by the name Free Joseon. It said the group came to prominence in 2017 after evacuating a nephew of Kim from Macau when potential threats to his life surfaced. The Post's sources said the group did not act in coordination with any governments and U.S. intelligence agencies would have been especially reluctant to be involved given the sensitive timing of the mission ahead of a second summit between Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump in Hanoi from Feb. 27-28. According to Spanish media accounts, broadly confirmed by a Spanish Foreign Ministry source, a group of unidentified men entered North Korea's embassy in Madrid on Feb. 22, bound and gagged staff, and drove off four hours later with computers. There has been no claim of responsibility. The dissident group identified by the Washington Post could not be reached for comment and its purported website has made no mention of any involvement in the raid. On Feb. 25 the website posted a statement saying the group had "received a request for help from comrades in a certain Western country" and that "it was a highly dangerous situation but (we) responded." The group said an important announcement would be coming that week, but no details of any operation have been released. The Madrid embassy is where North Korea's chief working-level negotiator in talks with the United States, Kim Hyok Chol, was ambassador until 2017. Intelligence experts said computers and phones reportedly seized in the raid would be eagerly sought by foreign intelligence agencies given the information they might contain on Kim Hyok Chol and others. Asked about the Washington Post report, the U.S. State Department referred queries to the Spanish authorities. The CIA declined to comment. (Reporting by David Brunnstrom; Additional reporting by Josh Smith and Joyce Lee in Seoul; editing by Grant McCool) JAKARTA (Reuters) - Indonesia's anti-graft agency on Saturday named a prominent Islamist politician backing President Joko Widodo's re-election campaign as a suspect in a bribery case, an investigator said. The United Development Party (PPP) chairman Muhammad Romahurmuziy had allegedly accepted bribes to get two people high ranking jobs at the religious affairs ministry, Laode Syarif, deputy chairman of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), told a news briefing. Romahurmuziy was arrested on Friday, just weeks before legislative and presidential elections set for April 17, when Widodo will seek re-election. Noting that 60 percent of cases handled by the anti-graft agency were related to politics, Syarif reminded the public in the runup to the election that they should "vote for those who are honest." As part of the bribery investigation, the KPK has confiscated 156.8 million rupiah ($11,000). In a handwritten letter distributed to media by the KPK, Romahurmuziy said he was framed and that the case was politically motivated. "This is the risk of becoming a spokesman for a coalition that wants to make Indonesia to be led by a nationalist, moderately religious leader," he wrote in the letter. KPK said its investigation adhered to anti-corruption laws. PPP, which controls 7 percent of parliament, is expected to canvas the conservative Muslim vote for Widodo, whose religious credentials have been attacked by opponents. The case would not affect Widodo's electability, the president's campaign manager Erick Thohir said in a statement on Friday, while urging people to respect the presumption of innocence during the legal process. Several recent polls showed Widodo holding a double-digit lead over his challenger, retired general Prabowo Subianto. ($1 = 14,255.0000 rupiah) (Reporting by Jessica Damiana; Additional reporting by Ed Davies; Writing by Gayatri Suroyo; Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore) Halabja (Iraq) (AFP) - Hundreds of Kurds gathered in the Iraqi town of Halabja on Saturday in a tearful ceremony commemorating Saddam Hussein's poison gas attack there which killed some 5,000 people, mostly women and children. On March 16, 1988, Saddam's forces unleashed a cocktail of deadly gases on the northern farming community, captured a day before by Kurdish fighters who had sided with nearby Iran in the countries' eight-year war. Facing a barrage of Iraqi regime artillery and air strikes, Kurdish forces and most of the town's men had withdrawn to the surrounding hills, leaving behind women, children and the elderly. The following day, Iraqi fighter planes circled above the area for five hours, releasing toxic gases including sarin and mustard gas. Marking 31 years since the massacre, tearful relatives on Saturday carried portraits of the victims in a solemn ceremony of remembrance. Halabja Governor Azad Tawfiq called for compensation and care for survivors still suffering from respiratory problems. "The Kurdish government, the Iraqi central authorities and the international community owe a debt to Halabja," he said. Iraq's President Barham Saleh, himself Kurdish, said that "the sufferings of Halabja reflect those of the Kurds and all Iraqis." Writing on Twitter, he said the town embodied "the will to resist and be reborn" in a country ravage by decades of conflict, most recently the battle against the Islamic State jihadist group. Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi said the Halabja attack was an act of "genocide" and "barbarity". The Halabja victims were among some 180,000 people killed during the regime's "Anfal campaign" against the Kurds. Ali Hassan al-Majid, a cousin of Saddam better known as "Chemical Ali", was hanged in 2010 for ordering the 1988 attack. Saddam himself was hanged in 2006 after being found guilty over the deaths of 148 Shiite villagers. With the Libyan National Army poised to focus on Tripoli, delicate manoeuvres are in play to sound out the position of Islamist militias and their backers UN Special Envoy to Libya Ghassan Salames meeting last week with former speaker of the Tripoli-based High Council of State (HCS) Abdel-Rahman Al-Sweihli raises numerous questions concerning the role of the former and the status of the latter who is still being cast as a player despite the existence of a successor as head of the HCS. That successor, Khaled Al-Mishri, flew off to Qatar following the agreement that Salame brokered in the UAE two weeks ago between Libyan National Army (LNA) Commander Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar and Chairman of the Presidency Council Fayez Al-Sarraj. The Salame-Sweihli meeting is all the more curious given Sweihlis repute as the godfather of the Islamist militias in western Libya. Analysts observed that the meeting also coincided with a large exodus of militia members with their families from Tripolis Mitiga airport to Turkey during the past two weeks against the backdrop of the LNAs success in securing the south and its looming advance towards Tripoli in response to mounting popular calls for the army to free the capital from the tyranny of the militias. Analysts believe that the meeting between the UN special representative and Sweihli, who is close to Qatar, was meant to reassure the fleeing militia members that Sweihli and other leaders of militant Islamism are still present, strong and influential. Last year, Sweihli threatened to split Libya into two after Haftar announced a decision to place the petroleum fields and oil terminals under the supervision of the government in Cyrenaica in order to keep the terrorist militias from using oil proceeds to fund terrorism. The political analyst Gamal Shalof was surprised by the meeting between Salame and Sweihli. Is it a bid to force us to accept a new reality on the ground in advance of the National Conference? Pictures of the meeting also featured Salah Al-Bakoush, Sweihlis former aide in the Union for the Homeland Party and a well-known media figure who is hostile to the LNA. Salame insists on giving Sweihli a role despite the fact that he has no official capacity, planting him and his aide in the forthcoming process, Shalof said, adding that Salame has met with other political figures in Tripoli during the absence of the current HCS chairman. Observers believe that the meeting that Salame arranged between Haftar and Al-Sarraj in the UAE two weeks ago gave the latter a kiss of life at a time when his government, the Government of National Accord (GNA), had one foot in the grave. By extension, it was also a kiss of life to the militant Islamist movement whose representatives control the Tripoli-based based HCS, just as the LNA prevailed over terrorist militias and foreign intervention in the Fezzan region to the south. The national army has now asserted its control over 75 per cent of Libyan territory and is poised to march on the capital to rescue its inhabitants from the grip of the militias. Some observers have noted that the LNA general command, in its weekly meetings, has made no reference to the Sarraj-Haftar meeting or to any agreement announced by the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), which Salame heads. They maintain that this confirms that the meeting, which barely lasted 10 minutes, was informal, even though UNSMIL and Al-Sarraj have marketed it as a means to prop up Al-Sarraj. Many in Libya criticised the meeting on the grounds that one of its potential consequences would be to side line a number of parties, such as the Tobruk-based House of Representatives, the HCS and affiliates of the former regime from future arrangements. While Salame proceeded to use the meeting to promote the other side Al-Sarraj, the Islamists brigades and other anti-Haftar and anti-LNA hardliners aid came to him from an unexpected quarter in an unexpected way. As though to spare Salame from the suspicion of supporting extremists, the former mufti Al-Sadik Al-Ghariani called on Libyans to stage protest rallies against Salame. This was the first time he urged demonstrators to remain peaceful. In the past, after he was appointed mufti following the revolution, he kindled doctrinal strife between Libyans and sanctioned extremists attacks against their political adversaries in the name of Shariah and the revolution. Al- Mishri In Qatar HCS President Khaled Al-Mishris meeting with the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, in Doha on Monday 4 March was another event that conveyed messages at a time when the LNA is readying for operations to secure control over the rest of Libyan territory, including the capital. Its main message was that Qatar is still in the picture and ready to lend a hand to radical Islamist groups and their militias in western Libya Al-Mishris visit took place as Libyan Islamist forces scramble to draw up plans for the coming phase and secure outside backing. According to Libyan press reports, the Libyan chapter of the Muslim Brotherhood held a meeting in Qatar attended by the former mufti Al-Ghariani, Ali Al-Salabi and other Islamist leaders in order to discuss the situation back home and to finalise a proposal to be put to the National Conference. The proposal, recently announced by the Halbous Brigade in the western city of Misrata, a Muslim Brotherhood stronghold, contains 10 points, the most important of which provides that the resolutions adopted by the National Conference must override decisions made by the currently existing authorities. This implicitly means that the conference will supersede and disregard parliament. Analysts hold that the proposal is consistent with the views and methods of the Islamist movement which will use whatever means come to hand when elections fail to bring it to power. It also conforms with a recent US stance that called for the withdrawal of recognition from all existing political bodies, such as parliament and the Presidency Council. Washington is keen to pave the way for greater US involvement in Libya towards which end it hopes to engineer at least some of the outcomes of the National Conference. The Security Of Libya's Neighbours Meanwhile, Libyas neighbours are continuing their efforts to promote the restoration of stability and security in Libya. Cairo last week hosted a meeting of the foreign ministers of Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia in order to discuss the repercussions of the Libyan crisis on the stability of neighbouring countries that are jeopardised by attempts to legitimise militia organisations operating outside the official organs of the state. In a joint press conference following their meeting, the three foreign ministers reaffirmed their countries commitment to supporting Libya at this precarious phase in its history, to helping the Libyan people in their quest to build an independent state with unified national institutions, and to promoting national reconciliation so as to revive security and stability throughout the country. The ministers also reaffirmed their countries commitment to work together to safeguard Libyan territorial integrity, unity, independence and sovereignty, and they appealed to all parties to summon a spirit of responsibly, to show a degree of flexibility commensurate with the demands of the UN-sponsored political process, and to place higher Libyan national interests above all other considerations. The ministers voiced their opposition to all forms of foreign intervention in Libya which only serves to complicate the crisis and obstruct the political process. * A version of this article appears in print in the 14 March, 2019 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly under the headline: The UN and Libyan militias Search Keywords: Short link: MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - A Mexican journalist who often covered crime and drug gangs in northern Sonora state died late Friday night after being gunned down at point-blank range in his home near the U.S. border, local authorities said on Saturday. Santiago Barroso was shot multiple times after an unknown assailant knocked on his front door, the state prosecutor's office said in a statement. He was pronounced dead later at a hospital. Barroso worked as a multimedia journalist in the border town of San Luis Rio Colorado, about 20 miles (32 km) southwest of Yuma, Arizona on the U.S. side. He was host of a local radio show, director of the news website Red 563 and a contributor to weekly newspaper Contrasena. While it was unclear if his killing was linked to his work, Barroso's death marks the third journalist killed so far this year in Mexico, one of the world's most dangerous countries for reporters. Alfonso Durazo, Mexico's security minister, pledged federal government assistance in the investigation into Barroso's killing in a post on Twitter. According to free-speech advocacy group Article 19, at least 46 journalists have been killed in Mexico from 2012 through last year. (Reporting by Miguel Angel Gutierrez; Editing by Richard Chang) MANAGUA, Nicaragua (AP) Nicaragua's Roman Catholic bishops have declined an invitation to attend talks between the government and representatives of the opposition. The bishops had been mediators in the first, failed round of talks last year. They had been invited by both sides to sit in as witnesses this year, along with representatives of evangelical churches. The bishops said in a statement Friday they would follow the talks and hoped for the best outcome, but wouldn't attend, arguing it was time for lay people to find a solution. The opposition civic alliance and government representatives sat down on Feb. 27, but have not yet agreed on an agenda. At least 325 people have been killed and more than 2,000 wounded since demonstrations began last April. Paris (AFP) - Around 45,000 climate campaigners marched in Paris Saturday to condemn what they called the French government's "inaction" on climate change, according to a media estimate. Organisers of the march through the centre of the city, which coincided with "yellow vests" riots in the west, estimated that 107,000 people took part while the police put the figure at 36,000. Organisers said more than 350,000 people turned out to march in 220 towns and cities across France. "Macron, you're screwed: the pandas are in the street," said one placard at the Paris demonstration, addressing French President Emmanuel Macron. "We are here to demonstrate against the inaction on climate change... and against the multi-billionaires in their ivory towers," 18-year-old drama student Pierre-Loup Meriaux told AFP. Many of those present were young people, some of whom had already marched the previous day in a youth protest for climate change action. On Friday, tens of thousands of young people took part in the Paris edition of the global student climate demonstration inspired by 16-year-old Swedish campaigner Greta Thunberg. They were joining marches in cities across the world Friday, as hundreds of thousands of young people skipped school to join the protests. Washington (AFP) - US diplomatic chief Mike Pompeo travels next week to Israel, where he will meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a close ally of Donald Trump's administration in the midst of a heated re-election campaign. The US secretary of state travels to the Middle East February 19-23, stopping first in Kuwait for talks before heading to Jerusalem and Beirut, his spokesman Robert Palladino said. "The common thing in each of those places is helping those countries bolster their efforts to push back against the Islamic Republic of Iran," Pompeo told Fox News. The Trump administration has repeatedly clashed with Tehran, also an arch foe of the Jewish state. In Jerusalem, Pompeo "will reaffirm both privately and publicly during that visit our unwavering commitment to Israel's security and its right to self-defense," a senior State Department official said. Earlier, Pompeo backed Israel's "right to protect its citizens," after the Jewish state said it struck dozens of Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip in response to rockets from the Palestinian enclave. "Once again, Israeli citizens are under attack from terrorists in Gaza, armed and financed by their puppet masters in Tehran," he tweeted. "We stand by our ally. Israel has the right to protect its citizens." Pompeo's visit to Jerusalem, which the United States now recognizes as the Jewish state's capital -- to the great dismay of the Palestinians and the international community -- is especially an opportunity to meet with Netanyahu just before Israel's April 9 legislative vote. The visit is a welcome one for Netanyahu, facing corruption allegations and an uncertain battle to hold on to power. Pompeo has no plans to meet Netanyahu's rivals, who include former military chief of staff Benny Gantz and ex-finance minister Yair Lapid. The diplomatic chief "meets with him as the head of government in Israel," explained the senior official. Story continues "We have major US interests with Israel. Those interests don't go away. They don't go into suspension because of the electoral cycle," the official added. In Lebanon, where Pompeo travels after Israel, one of the principal topics will be the Shiite movement Hezbollah, which the United States considers a terrorist group that works at Iran's behest. Hezbollah is nonetheless a member of Prime Minister Saad Hariri's government, a Washington ally. By Philip Pullella VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope Francis has asked aides to resume plans for a visit to South Sudan, a trip that had to be scrapped in 2017 because of the civil war in the world's youngest country. During a meeting with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir on Saturday, Francis "expressed the wish to ascertain the conditions for a possible visit to South Sudan," a Vatican statement said. It added that he wanted to make the trip as "a sign of closeness to the population and of encouragement for the peace process". Oil-producing South Sudan, which became independent in 2011, descended into civil war in December 2013 when a dispute between Kiir and his sacked deputy Riek Machar sparked fighting, often along ethnic lines. In September, Kiir, who is Catholic, and Machar, a Presbyterian, signed a peace deal calling on the two main rival factions to assemble, screen and train their respective forces and unify them into a national army before the formation of a unity government in May. Three days ago, the Brussels-based International Crisis Group said in a report that the six-month-old peace deal risked collapse because none of these steps have occurred, just two months before the deadline. More than half of the population of South Sudan is Christian, while Sudan is predominantly Muslim. In 2017, Catholic Church leaders in the country said they had expected the pope would visit the capital, Juba, in the autumn of that year. The tentative plans were scrapped because of security concerns. About 400,000 people have been killed, and more than a third of the country's 12 million people uprooted by the civil war - a conflict punctuated by multiple rounds of mediation followed by renewed bloodshed. The original trip was to have lasted only one day for security reasons and the pope was to have flown in after spending a night in another African country. Francis is expected to visit several African countries this year, including Madagascar. The pope was to have made the 2017 trip to South Sudan with Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, head of the worldwide Anglican communion, in an effort to promote unity in the mostly Christian country. The conflict sparked Africa's worst refugee crisis since the 1994 Rwandan genocide and plunged parts of the country into famine. More than 875,000 refugees have fled into neighboring Uganda since the war broke out. The pope and Kiir discussed the return of refugees, the Vatican statement said. (Additional reporting by Hereward Holland in Nairobi) Baghouz (Syria) (AFP) - US-backed forces battled Islamic State group fighters Saturday as the holdout jihadists clung to the last dregs of their crumbling "caliphate" in eastern Syria. For weeks, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces have been battling to crush IS fighters cornered in a riverside encampment in the village of Baghouz. The makeshift camp of tents and tunnels is all that remains of a once-sprawling "caliphate" declared in 2014 over swathes of Syria and neighbouring Iraq. The SDF and coalition warplanes have rained fire on the enclave since last Sunday, blitzing more than 4,000 IS fighters and family members into surrender. US-backed forces have reduced daytime airstrikes and shelling to allow for more exits from the last jihadist bastion. But AFP journalists at an SDF post inside Baghouz heard sporadic rounds of mortar fire Saturday, and an SDF spokesman said fighting was ongoing. "Clashes broke out again last night and have continued since," SDF spokesman Adnan Afrin said. "There have so far been no surrenders (today) and there's no sign they are giving up," he told AFP. An SDF statement said the latest fighting broke out after the Kurd-led force attacked IS positions inside Baghouz. Around 32 jihadists, including at least four senior IS figures, were killed in the battle, it said. - Suicide attacks - On Friday, IS launched three suicide attacks outside Baghouz, killing six people as they fled the village near the Iraqi border. They were the latest casualties in Syria's devastating civil war as it entered its ninth year with 370,000 dead. The US-led coalition said the bombers were dressed in women's clothing and had mixed with others who were surrendering. "Daesh has proven to demonstrate a reckless disregard for human life and continues to be a global threat," it said late Friday, using an Arabic acronym for IS. "We stand by our SDF partners as they fight to liberate that last Daesh-held territory," it said on Twitter. Story continues Analyst Mutlu Civiroglu said the attacks were designed to keep "moral high" among jihadists. "From their perspective they are resisting, they are not giving up quickly," he said. Die-hard IS fighters have unleased a wave of suicide bombings over the past week to impede the SDF advance. It remains unclear how many fighters and civilians remain inside Baghouz. More than 61,000 people have streamed out of IS-held territory since December, a tenth of them suspected jihadists, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The exodus has sparked a humanitarian crisis in Kurdish-run camps for the displaced further north, where civilians have been transported. They include the wives and children of alleged foreign jihadists, hundreds of whom are being held by Kurdish forces. - Distress, fatigue, malnutrition - Around 3,000 people arrived at Al-Hol camp from Baghouz over the past two days, pushing the camp's population to over 69,000, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) said Saturday. According to the United Nations children's fund, UNICEF, the camp was designed with capacity for just 20,000 people. The UN said most of the new arrivals "show clear signs of distress, fatigue, malnutrition and require some form of medical care or attention". According to the IRC and UN, since December around 122 people have died en route to the camp or shortly after arriving, mostly small children, two of them on Thursday. "There is an urgent requirement for funding to continue health and nutrition interventions in the camp," the UN said. At the height of its brutal rule, IS controlled territory in Syria and Iraq the size of the United Kingdom, with a population of millions. The total capture of the Baghouz camp by the SDF would mark the end of the cross-border "caliphate" it proclaimed more than four years ago. But beyond Baghouz, IS retains a presence in eastern Syria's vast Badia desert and sleeper cells in the northeast. The jihadists have continued to claim deadly attacks in SDF-held territory in recent months. Madrid (AFP) - Thousands of Catalan separatists took to the streets of the Spanish capital Saturday to denounce the prosecution of 12 of their leaders, on trial for their part in the failed 2017 independence bid. Police estimated that some 18,000 people marched through the city centre, the first such demonstration by Catalan separatists in Madrid since 2012. Many of the protesters carried the red-and-yellow striped flag of Catalonia, and a banner at the front of the march read: "Self-determination is not a crime". The separatists denounce the court case mounted against the regional politicians as a politically motivated show trial. Nine of the 12 on trial at Madrid's Supreme Court face up to 25 years in jail on charges of rebellion and other offences for pushing a secession bid referendum in October 2017 in defiance of a court ban, and for a brief declaration of independence. The moves sparked Spain's deepest political crisis since the transition to democracy in the 1970s after the death of dictator Francisco Franco. Trade Hopes Lift Stocks In The U.S. U.S. futures trading indicated a positive open for the major indices has trade hopes are renewed. Reports reveal that Chinese Vice Premier Liu He spoke on the phone with Secretary of the Treasury Steve Mnuchin and U.S Trade Ambassador Robert Lighthizer to defuse tensions surrounding key issues. According to those in the know, progress has been made and the two nations are still on track to reach a deal in the not too distant future. Markets had become anxious on Thursday following word that the Trump/Xi Mar-a-Lago summit had been postponed. In Trumps words, well know in the next four to five weeks if a deal can be made. The major indices were all looking at an open roughly 0.50% above Thursdays close. In economic news, the New York Manufacturing Survey paints a mixed picture of the economy. While business activity remains expansionary the survey reading came in at 3.7, just off the long-term low and down from the previous month. The reading shows expansion but at a low pace, slower than the previous month. The one bright spot in the report was a 10-point uptick in employment. The UK Votes To Delay Brexit EU markets were buoyed by news the UK Parliament had voted against a no-deal Brexit. The non-binding vote to avoid a no-deal Brexit may push back the Article 50 deadline three months or more but is reliant on EU approval. The EU has said the UK will need to provide suitable reasons for delaying the deadline, and that there will be no more negotiations, so it is unclear exactly what the UK intends to do now. For her part, Prime Minister Theresa May is back at work seeking support for her now twice-defeated Brexit Deal. She has promised to bring it back before Parliament as early as next week. There are now just 14 days until the Article 50 deadline. In stock news shares of travel company Dufry jumped 4.0% after reporting better than expected results. The company topped growth expectations, provided favorable guidance, and announced an increase to the dividend payment. Shares of Volkswagen were not so buoyant. That stock fell more than -1.0% after the U.S DOJ announced a lawsuit pertaining to the diesel emissions scandal. The DAX led the indices with a gain of 1.0% at midday followed by a 0.90% increase in the CAC and a 0.60% advance for the FTSE 100. Story continues BOJ Holds Rates Steady, China Pledges Support For The Economy In Asia equities markets were supported by two bits of news. The first is that the Bank of Japan held its policy rates unchanged. The BOJ says Japan can expect to see moderate expansion continue despite risks from the global economy. The Japanese Nikkei advanced 0.77% on the news. In China Premier Li Kiquang says the government will remain supportive of the economy. This comes after industrial production data fell to its lowest level in nearly 20 years. The Shanghai and Shenzen Composites both gained more than 1.0% on the news while elsewhere in the region trading was more mixed. The Hong Kong Hang Seng gained about 0.50% while the Korean Kospi advanced close to 1.0% and the Australian ASX fell a tepid -0.07%. This article was originally posted on FX Empire More From FXEMPIRE: WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he anticipated a "large scale" trade agreement with the United Kingdom, as Britain faces a delay to its exit from the European Union after parliament rejected the government's Brexit deal. Britain's exit from the European Union, which conducts trade deals on its behalf, will see it head to the negotiating table to broker its own commerce pacts with other countries, including the United States, for the first time in decades. "I'd like to see that whole situation with Brexit work out," Trump told reporters at the White House ahead of a meeting with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar. "We can do a very big trade deal with the UK." Earlier on Thursday Trump had tweeted: "My Administration looks forward to negotiating a large scale Trade Deal with the United Kingdom. The potential is unlimited!" However, with a little more than two weeks before Britain is due to leave the EU, there is no firm agreement yet in place. Britain's parliament was due to vote later on Thursday on a last-minute delay after UK lawmakers twice rejected Prime Minister Theresa May's EU divorce deal. A delay could also push back U.S.-British trade talks. The U.S. Trade Representative's office has said it would launch negotiations with Britain after its planned exit from the EU on March 29. Last month, it laid out its objectives for a deal that included reduced tariff and non-tariff barriers for U.S. industrial and agricultural goods. British trade minister Liam Fox said Trump had shown his ambition for a trade agreement and he looked forward to sitting down at the negotiating table to strengthen the trading relationship. "Greater trade between us reinforces a comprehensive alliance that goes far beyond the economic, providing for our national security and bringing prosperity to our people," Fox said in a statement in response to Trump's tweet. Trump has made the U.S. economy and trade a cornerstone of his presidency in line with his "America First" campaign, and has sought to renegotiate pacts with China, Canada and Mexico as well as the EU. Story continues Trump said he was working on the U.S.-EU trade deal and reiterated his tariff threat. "If they don't talk to us, we're going to do something that's going to be pretty severely economically," he said. "It'll probably work out. They're negotiating." Varadkar said Britain's decision to leave the EU should not impact UK's Northern Ireland, and that he would like to see a trade deal cemented between the EU and the United States. "I think it will be a few years until the United Kingdom sorts itself out, but in the meantime the European Union is available to talk trade with the U.S.," Varadkar said. (Reporting by Susan Heavey, additional reporting by Kylie MacLellan in London; Editing by Stephen Addison and Phil Berlowitz) President Trump said Friday that he has offered U.S. aid to New Zealand after Thursday nights shooting massacre at two mosques that killed 49 worshippers. The president wrote in a pair of tweets that he spoke to New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern regarding the horrific events that have taken place over the past 24 hours. The prime minister called the attack one of New Zealands darkest days at a press conference on Friday. I informed the Prime Minister that we stand in solidarity with New Zealand and that any assistance the U.S.A. can give, we stand by ready to help, Trump said. We love you New Zealand! A gunman opened fire on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand around lunchtime local time, killing 49 and wounding at least 20, including young children. He streamed video of the attack live online. The attacker, a 28-year-old Australian white man, posted a white supremacist manifesto of sorts on the message board 8chan, one of the darkest corners of the internet, warning he was planning an attack against the invaders, referring to Muslims. Three people including the gunman were arrested, and the gunman has been charged with murder. He will appear in court Saturday morning. Despite the attackers statements saying he was motivated by a white supremacist ideology, Trump maintained that he does not believe the credo is on the rise in the U.S. Asked at the White House whether he sees white nationalism as a rising threat around the world, the president responded I dont, really. Its a small group of people that have very, very serious problems, Trump said, adding that he did not see the gunmans manifesto, which appeared to make reference to Trump as a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose. I guess, if you look at what happened in New Zealand, perhaps thats a case, Trump continued. I dont know enough about it yet, theyre just learning about the person and the people involved. But its certainly a terrible thing. More from National Review WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump urged General Motors Co to reopen Ohio plant in a tweet on Saturday, ten days after the plant made its last Chevrolet Cruze. The last Cruze rolled off the assembly line a week ago Wednesday at GM's plant in Lordstown, Ohio, the first of five plants in North America to end production this year and ending U.S. production of the Cruze. In a tweet, Trump said "Because the economy is so good, General Motors must get their Lordstown, Ohio, plant open, maybe in a different form or with a new owner, FAST!" Trump added "Toyota is investing 13.5 $Billion in U.S., others likewise. G.M. MUST ACT QUICKLY. Time is of the essence!" Over five years Toyota plans to invest nearly $13 billion. GM did not immediately respond to requests for comment late Saturday. (Reporting by Mike Stone; Editing by Marguerita Choy) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States has revoked hundreds of visas from Venezuelans since Monday, nearly a third of which belonged to former diplomats from Venezuela and their families, and is urging U.S. citizens in Venezuela to flee the country days after the United States withdrew its diplomats from Venezuela, the State Department said on Thursday. "Since this Monday ... we have revoked 340 visas, 107 of which include visas of Maduro's former diplomats and their families," State Department spokesman Robert Palladino told reporters. The United States has been stepping up actions against President Nicolas Maduro's government as it tries to pressure Maduro to step down. (Reporting by Lesley Wroughton; Writing by Makini Brice; Editing by Leslie Adler) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. border agents have seized around 1 million pounds of pork from China, a spokesman for the agency said on Friday, over suspicions that it might contain African swine flu disease which has hit Chinese pork output. Federal agents have seized the supplies over the past week in New York. "The seizure was in an effort to battle the spread of African swine fever," Anthony L. Bucci, Public Affairs Specialist at U. S. Customs and Border Protection, told Reuters over email. Asked if the seized pork had African swine fever, Bucci said, "This is an ongoing investigation," and added that the federal agents were working with U.S. Department of Agriculture on the issue. China, home to the world's largest hog herd, has reported 112 outbreaks of the highly contagious disease in 28 provinces and regions since August, with the vast majority found on farms, with one at a slaughterhouse. The disease can kill hogs in just two days, but is not harmful to people. About 1 million pigs have been culled so far in an effort to try to control the spread. Hog prices in China hit their highest in 14 months this week as the spread of the disease reduces output. U.S. officials decided to ramp up their fight to avoid the virus after Vietnam confirmed its first cases last month. The U.S. Department of Agriculture said it will add more dogs to sniff out illegal pork products at airports and seaports in an effort to keep out the contagious hog disease that has spread across Asia and Europe. (Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk in Washington and Tom Polansek in Chicago; Editing by Nick Zieminski) By Matt Spetalnick and Lesley Wroughton WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday blamed Russia and Cuba for causing Venezuela's political crisis by supporting President Nicolas Maduro and said he had urged India not to help Maduro's government by buying Venezuelan oil. His comments came after the U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions on Russian bank Evrofinance Mosnarbank for helping Venezuelan state oil firm PDVSA evade U.S. financial restrictions. "This story is not complete without acknowledging the central role Cuba and Russia have played and continue to play in undermining the democratic dreams of the Venezuelan people and their welfare," Pompeo told reporters. "Moscow, like Havana, continues to provide political cover to the Maduro regime, while pressuring countries to disregard the democratic legitimacy of the interim president Guaido," he added. The Trump administration has taken several steps in recent weeks to ratchet up pressure on Maduro and bolster Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido, recognized by the United States and more than 50 other countries as interim president. However, Maduro, who has accused Guaido of a U.S.-directed coup attempt, retains the backing of Russia and China as well as control of state institutions including the military. Earlier on Monday, Pompeo met with India's Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale at the State Department and among topics was India's purchases of oil from Maduro's government. "We are asking the same thing of India as we are of every country: do not be the economic lifeline for the Maduro regime," Pompeo said, declining to give specifics of the talks. "I am very confident in the same way that India has been incredibly supportive of our efforts on Iran, I am confident that they too understand the real threat to the Venezuelan people," he added. The Indian market is crucial for Venezuela's economy. It has historically been the second-largest cash-paying customer for the OPEC country's crude after the United States, which through sanctions against Maduro has handed control of much of the revenue to Guaido. Earlier, the U.S. Treasury said all U.S. assets of Evrofinance, described as jointly owned by Russian and Venezuelan state-owned companies, would be frozen and U.S. citizens prohibited from doing business with it. Pompeo said Russian oil giant Rosneft was also defying U.S. sanctions by buying oil from PDVSA, which was sanctioned in January. "Russia's state-owned company, Rosneft, continues to purchase crude oil cargoes from PDVSA, Venezuela's state-owned oil company, in defiance of U.S. sanctions. And, Rosneft's CEO, Igor Sechin, continues to throw a lifeline to the regime," he said. Washington has called on foreign banks to ensure that Maduro and Venezuelan government officials are not hiding financial assets abroad. "Bankers: Do not help Maduro and his accomplices steal the assets of the Venezuelan people," U.S. national security adviser John Bolton wrote in a message on Twitter on Monday. "The United States is watching. The world is watching. The Venezuelan people are watching." Evrofinance was set up in 2011 with Venezuela's National Development Fund, commonly known as FONDEN, taking a 49 percent stake in the bank, the Treasury Department said. Russias Gazprombank and the Russian state bank VTB Bank each took a 25 percent interest in Evrofinance, which was founded as a bi-national bank to fund joint Russia-Venezuela oil and infrastructure projects, the department said. Evrofinance was the primary international financial bank that helped finance a Venezuelan crypto-currency, the petro, which launched last year in an attempt to "circumvent" U.S. sanctions, the Treasury Department said. Evrofinance said in a statement on its website that it was operating in a "stable manner" and will "fulfill all of its obligations toward clients and partners. Gazprombank, which is Russias third biggest lender by assets and includes among its shareholders Russian state gas company Gazprom, said in a statement that the U.S. Treasury decision would not affect it. Gazprombank has a minority stake in Evrofinance Mosnarbank, Gazprombank said. Gazprombank does not carry out operations on the accounts of companies that are sanctioned by the U.S. over Venezuela. (Additional reporting by Mohammad Zargham and David Alexander in Washington; Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber, Tatiana Voronova and Elena Fabrichnaya in Moscow; editing by Grant McCool and Tom Brown) BERLIN (Reuters) - A vote by Britain's parliament to seek to delay when it leaves the European Union only adds uncertainty about timing to an already difficult situation, Germany's DIHK industry group said in comments published by German media on Friday. "The companies no longer have any idea what they should be preparing for," Martin Wansleben, executive director of the DIHK Chambers of Industry and Commerce, told the Funke Mediengruppe newspaper chain. "In addition to uncertainty about what is going to happen, now there's uncertainty about when it will happen," he said. British lawmakers voted overwhelmingly on Thursday to seek a delay in Brexit, which means the March 29 departure date set down in law is likely to be missed. Wansleben said 70 percent of German companies with business in Britain expected further erosion in 2019, and only one in five of those firms described its UK business as good. (Reporting by Andrea Shalal) Valencia (Venezuela) (AFP) - Venezuela's self-proclaimed interim leader Juan Guaido began a tour of his country Saturday aimed at sparking a citizen's movement to pry President Nicolas Maduro from power. As Guaido, 35, kicked off his "operation freedom" in the northern city of Valencia, the pro-Maduro military staged the latest in a series of exercises. The drill focused on defending hydroelectric infrastructure from attack -- a reaction to a weeklong national blackout that Maduro blamed on US "sabotage" but experts said was more likely the result of years of neglect. Guaido, the head of the opposition-ruled National Assembly whose claim to be caretaker president is recognized by the US, Canada and much of Latin America and Europe, vowed he would "very soon" take up office in Miraflores, the presidential palace. He has been pushing for nearly two months against Maduro after declaring himself acting president during street rallies by tens of thousands, following Maduro's swearing-in for a second term despite elections widely dismissed as a sham. "We are going to reclaim what belongs to the people," Guaido told thousands of supporters on Saturday. Maduro, he said, "believes that a thieving gang or a palace makes him president. It's only the support of our people that makes someone president of a nation and he doesn't have that. And not much longer will he be in that palace." Guaido offered no timeline for the mobilization across Venezuela, which he said will culminate with a march on the presidential palace in Caracas. "I'm ready to head over to Miraflores right now, wherever my future president Juan Guaido asks me to go," said one of his supporters, Milagros Lima, 50, a lawyer. She told AFP that her "whole family" are among the millions who have fled the country's dire shortages of food and medicine. "If it weren't for them, we'd be starving to death," she said. Story continues Accompanying Guaido on his tour are opposition lawmakers tasked with creating citizen assemblies -- "freedom cells" -- across the country. The opposition said that, by Saturday, around 50 had already been set up in half of Venezuela's 23 states. "Whatever happens, we must be united, mobilized in the streets," Guaido said, adding that he has not ruled out asking the National Assembly to activate a constitutional clause allowing foreign military intervention -- though such a move "depended on others." - US ratchets up sanctions - That was taken as a reference to US military action, which US President Donald Trump has repeatedly refused to rule out, even though there is no sign such an operation is being mounted and US allies in Latin America oppose the idea. On Saturday, pro-Maduro demonstrators gathered in front of Trump's White House in Washington to protest any US-led intervention in Venezuela, while anti-Maduro protesters held their own rally nearby. Washington has so far concentrated on ratcheting up sanctions on Venezuela. That has made an already dire economic situation in the country worse, while increasing pressure on Maduro. On April 28, a US embargo on Venezuelan oil exports will go into effect, dealing a heavy blow to Venezuela's diminished finances, as America accounts for half of the oil exported. A major barrier to Guaido's plan to wrest control of the country is the military, which has so far remained loyal to Maduro, who has put generals in charge of lucrative civilian agencies and institutions. Guaido has offered amnesties to soldiers who abandon Maduro, and on Saturday tweeted that he has "contacted" officers to ask them not to repress opposition protesters. As has become common when the opposition holds an event, pro-Maduro crowds surged into the streets of central Caracas on Saturday. A senior regime official, Diosdado Cabello, roared to thousands of pro-government supporters that Guaido and his team "will never enter the palace of the revolutionary people." He asked the crowd if they would accept "the oligarchy, the bourgeoisie" taking charge, prompting a loud "No" in response. "We need a real opposition, one that isn't beholden to the imperialists, one that has personal standards and knows what is really happening in Venezuela," Cabello said. Among the regime supporters, voices raged against perceived US meddling. "Every minute of peace Venezuela has is a victory for the revolution and a defeat for the North American empire (the US) that really wants to see us killing each other here," one pro-Maduro demonstrator, Hermes Flores, told AFP. For him, Guaido was "a flame that will go out." Sanaa (AFP) - Yemen's Huthi rebels warned on Saturday they could launch attacks against the capitals of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, who lead a military coalition against them. The threat came as the United Nations was trying to salvage a truce deal in Yemen, seen as crucial to diplomatic efforts to end the country's four-year war. "We have aerial photographs and coordinates of dozens of headquarters, facilities and military bases of the enemy," rebel military spokesman Yahya Saree said in comments carried by the rebels' Al-Masirah channel. "The legitimate targets of our forces extend to the capital of Saudi Arabia and to the emirate of Abu Dhabi," capital of the UAE, he said. "We have manufactured advanced generations of attack aircraft, and new systems will soon be functional." The Iran-linked Huthi rebels have targeted Saudi border towns and Riyadh with ballistic missiles and also claimed drone attacks on the airports of Abu Dhabi and Dubai during the course of the conflict Saudi Arabia has said the missiles were all intercepted by its air force, with one civilian reported killed by falling shrapnel, while the UAE has denied the alleged drone attacks. Saudi Arabia and its military allies joined the Yemeni government's war against the Iran-linked Huthis in March 2015, triggering what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis. Some 10 million Yemenis face mass starvation, according to the UN. Both sides to the conflict stand accused of acts that could amount to war crimes. The World Health Organization estimates nearly 10,000 people have been killed in Yemen since March 2015, when Saudi Arabia and its allies joined the government's war against the Huthis. Other rights groups estimate the toll could be much higher. On Wednesday the UN Security Council met to discuss the stalled truce deal that had been agreed in Sweden in December between the Saudi-backed Yemeni government and the Huthis. Story continues The deal -- which called for a ceasefire, rebel pullback and mutual redeployment from Hodeida, Yemen's lifeline Red Sea port controlled by the Huthis -- offered the best hope in years of moving toward an end to the conflict. While the fighting in Hodeida has eased, redeployment efforts have stalled in recent weeks. UN envoy Martin Griffiths told the Security Council on Wednesday he was still working to make the redeployment a "reality". bur-ny The American space agency NASA is interested in using the Amiaz plateau near the Dead Sea to calibrate satellites. A decade ago, scientists examined the option of calibrating satellites using the Ramon Crater. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter Prof. Eyal Ben-Dor, head of the remote sensing laboratory of the Geography faculty at the Porter School for the Environment and Earth Sciences at Tel Aviv University, explained that the Amiaz plateau was chosen because it is an unchanging, flat, white and desert area and is 200 meters below sea level, making the atmosphere above it ideal for calibrating the strength of the sensors on satellite cameras. Amiaz plateau The Ramon Crater was chosen in the past due to its abundance of minerals and its magnificent colors, which enables optimal calibration of the color of the images. The aim is to calibrate a camera in the area that will then be launched to the International Space Station in 2021. Prof. Ben-Dror will deliver a presentation on the matter at an international conference titled, "Life under extreme conditions a lesson from nature," hosted by Tel Aviv University and the Dead Sea Research Institute, to be held this week at Masada. Ben-Dror explains what satellite calibration is: "Every device requires calibration, and sensors on satellites are calibrated before they are launched into space. In space, the sensors age and have to be recalibrated in order to obtain coherent information during the period of the satellite's operation (5-10 years), as well as to allow for comparisons with data gleaned from other satellites. Prof. Eyal Ben-Dor (Photo: TAU) Because it is impossible to return the sensor to Earth for recalibration, there is a need to find an alternative method. So there are several sites in the world that have unique characteristics that are used by satellite operators for calibration, which is performed when the satellite passes over the designated area in parallel to field measurements taken by teams with ground sensors, says Ben-Dor. Prof. Ben-Dor explains what is so unique about the Dead Sea region plateau: "There are two calibrations calibrating the physical values of the digital camera and calibrating the frequency of the signals. Another test often performed is the ability of the camera to attain the same picture quality at any time and with each passage." The Amiaz plain is flat, homogenous and clear, and is about 200 meters below sea level, allowing for more gas molecules in the radiation cross-section to be measurable for frequency calibration. The Ramon Crater is located on the same flight path of the satellite and enables a single, unambiguous test of whether the picture obtained is the repeatable under any conditions. Both locations hardly change over time and are stable over long periods of time making them ideal for satellite calibration, Ben-Dor explained. The cameras NASA wants to calibrate in Israel are scheduled to be launched into space in 2021 when a supply capsule will be sent to the International Space Station. "Tel Aviv University, together with the Dead Sea Research Center, is interested in working with NASA to provide the ground component of the calibration and in the future will partner with the European, Italian and German space agencies, Prof. Ben-Dor said. While the issue of allowing legalizing cannabis is gaining a central place in the Israeli election campaign, police launched a huge operation against the drug-dealing network Telegrass, which operates within the encrypted messaging app Telegram. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter On Tuesday, police arrested 42 of the channel's operators - 39 in Israel and three abroad - including Telegrass founder and manager Amos Dov Silver, a US resident who was detained during a visit to Ukraine. Dov Amos Silver The Telegrass group was established exactly two years ago, in March 2017, and immediately revolutionized the cannabis trade in Israel. The group enabled sellers and growers of cannabis to present their wares to customers (type, price, manner of collection, etc.) and directly coordinate transactions with them. Anyone wanting to buy cannabis went to the group, contacted one of the vendors who posted there, sent them a copy of their identity card and a selfie so that the vendor could verify that the would-be buyer was not an undercover cop, and a short time later a messenger would appear with the drugs. Due to the ease with which it was possible to buy and sell, thousands of sellers and hundreds of thousands of buyers joined the group, which became the main drug-dealing arena in Israel. The transactions via Telegrass were estimated to have reached into the hundreds of millions of shekels, and over time the channel expanded and facilitated drug deals abroad too. The Telegrass channel on Telegram (Photo: Shutterstock) The dealers, some 10,000 worldwide, paid the channel's managers NIS 420 (approx. $115) for the right to sell their drugs via the app. In total, the dealers paid the channel managers some NIS 2 million (approx. $550,000) every month. The police invested great effort in cracking down on the network, which operated through the secure Telegram application and employed programmers to encrypt the connection between merchants and consumers. At the end of a long and covert investigation, according to investigators from the Lahav 433 crime unit, the organizational structure of the network was smashed and the identities of the key operators revealed, at which point the investigation stopped being undercover and the 42 senior channel operators were arrested. The 39 suspects arrested in Israel were brought to the Magistrate's Courts in Rishon Lezion and Nazareth for remand extensions. During the remand hearings, police declared, for the first time in Israel, a crime organization was operating on the Internet. One of the 42 detainees appearing in court in Rishon Lezion (Photo: Moti Kimchi) The detainees are suspected of a variety of offenses, including "managing and financing a criminal organization, trading and supplying dangerous drugs within the framework of a criminal organization, mediating dangerous drug business within the framework of a criminal organization, disrupting legal proceedings within a criminal organization, conspiracy to commit crime, tax evasion and other offences." Police said Tuesday that Telegrass did not stop at selling cannabis and hashish, but also sold hard drugs. In addition, the police said, drug dealers were selling drugs to minors. "Most of the suspects belong to the highest echelons of the organization, including its head, his three deputies and senior officials," police said. "Today we are talking about one of the most important and central infrastructures for dealing in dangerous drugs in Israel, and as mentioned above, dozens of senior management members, thousands of merchants and tens of thousands of users have joined the company," police said. Chief Superintendent Moshe Sheetrit announcing the Telegrass operation (Photo: Shamir Elbaz) "The members of the network acted as a criminal organization for all intents and purposes in an orderly and methodical manner over a long period of time, in which they managed to trade in dangerous drugs of various kinds, including cocaine, MDMA and ecstasy, in addition to huge quantities of hashish and marijuana." Meanwhile, the head of Northern Command's intelligence division, Chief Superintendent Moshe Sheetrit, sought Tuesday to calm worried cannabis users. "We are not targeting users," Sheetrit said, "at the moment they are not part of our operation. They need to worry about their continued drug use, and we hope that this app won't be available in future." Attorneys for the defendants denied that their clients were connected to a criminal organization. The Palestinian Ministry of Transport is working to establish a rail line to connect Ramallah with city of Nablus, and later, a link between Ramallah and the southern part of the West Bank. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter The ministry is looking for a donor country to finance a feasibility study of what could turn into the largest project since the establishment of the Palestinian Authority the Holistic Plan for Transport and Communications in Palestine. In 2007, then-Palestinian prime minister Salam Fayyad approved a $2.25 million master plan for the project that was financed in 2014 by the European Investment Fund. Al-Manarah Square in central Ramallah In 2015, Samih Tbeileh, at the time minister of transport and communications, announced that foreign firms had started to develop a comprehensive initiative to include the construction of a rail line linking Nablus and Ramallah, with initial costs running at about $175 million. Mohammed Hamdan, spokesperson for the Ministry of Transport, said that the first phase of the project would connect Ramallah with cities in the northern part of the West Bank. We are looking to reduce traffic congestion and car accidents, he said. Hamdan pointed out that there was a great importance in reducing travel time. In the second phase of the project, he said, we will be connecting the southern cities (of the West Bank) with Ramallah and the north. When asked about Israeli approval he had confirmed that the proposed railway lines would be established on some lands under full Israeli security and administrative control he stated that the occupation was an obstacle to any project having to do with the Palestinians, though it was too early in the process to worry about it. We are first talking about Palestinian cities, Hamdan elaborated. At a later stage, we would worry about Israel. According to the 1993 Oslo Accords, Area C of the West Bank is under Israeli administrative and security control, while Area B is under Palestinian administrative control and joint Palestinian-Israeli security control and Area A is under full Palestinian control. The West Bank city of Nablus (Photo: Itai Shickman) We are looking now for a donor to cover the feasibility study expenses of the project, Hamdan said. This study is important to show us the route of the railroad, the final cost and other important data for the project. Osama Amro, a Palestinian civil engineer, said that even in light of the West Banks geography and topography, the project could be implemented. With the great technological advances (of recent years), nothing is impossible, Amro said. He admitted that it would be an ambitious project and stressed that the final cost would be huge, meaning that the budget could be an additional obstacle. Bishara Dabah, a Palestinian economist, confirmed that the development would be extremely important for Palestinians. More than 120,000 people travel every day between northern cities and Ramallah, he said. Moreover, Dabah stressed that a rail line between Ramallah and Nablus would better facilitate commerce by increasing competition. He also pointed out that West Bank municipalities were spending a great amount of money to pave new roads and create parking spaces. The Ramallah Municipality has been considering a project to build parking lots outside (the city) to ease traffic, Dabah continued, adding that people would then use public transportation to get around, something that would save the municipality money. Minister Tzachi Hanegbi (Likud) said Saturday that he did not believe the firing of two rockets at Tel Aviv area by Hamas two days ago was a mistake. "We dont accept Hamass explanations that it was a mistake but even if it was, they still have to pay for it," he said. Rioters set fire to a bank and ransacked stores on Paris' landmark shopping street in a new flare-up of violence as France's yellow vest protests against President Emmanuel Macron and his pro-business reforms entered a fourth month. Police fired tear gas and water cannon as the protests turned violent again after weeks of relative calm during marches and declining numbers of participants. Hundreds of Palestinians took to the streets of the Gaza Strip on Saturday for a third day in a row, to protest the high cost of living in the Hamas-controlled coastal enclave. During the demonstrations, at least 80 Fatah members were arrested by the Hamas operatives, who also apprehended journalists, as well as human rights activists monitoring the events. 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. Amaravati: Police were probing in addition to the political angle, if a possible business rivalry could have led to the murder of former minister Y S Vivekananda Reddy, as the SIT commenced its investigation to unravel the mystery behind the incident, police sources said Saturday. "There has been a running dispute for the past few months over a mining business in SPS Nellore district. Vivekananda was said to be supporting one side in the dispute. Whether this could have caused the murder is not clear yet, but we are probing it as well," the police officer, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said. Also, a possible rift within the family is another angle on which the probe is focused on, according to police sources. Police have picked up Yerra Gangi Reddy, a follower of Vivekananda,for questioning in relation to the mining dispute. The former ministers household staff, including his driver and cook, were also being questioned for possible clues in the case, police sources said. Meanwhile, the Special Investigation Team (SIT), under the supervision of Additional Director General of Police Amit Garg, has launched a full-scale probe to unravel the mystery behind the incident. While the YSR Congress wanted the CBI to investigate, the state government has constituted a SIT to probe the case. With hardly a month to go for the April 11 Lok Sabha and State Assembly polls, Vivekananda Reddy, younger brother of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister M Y S Rajasekhara Reddy, was found dead at his house in Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh on Friday. Police initially registered a case under Section 174 Cr PC (unnatural death) when Reddy's body was found by his staff early in the morning. After post-mortem in the local government hospital, police confirmed the case was altered to Section 302 IPC that relates to murder. The incident sparked a political slugfest between the opposition YSR Congress and the ruling Telugu Desam Party with both trading allegations holding each other responsible for the killing of the 68-year-old leader. A note purportedly written by Vivekananda alleging that his driver "beat me up badly" has also become a subject of name-calling between the ruling Telugu Desam Party and YSRC. The note has been sent for forensic examination to establish the veracity, police said. While YSRC chief Y S Jaganmohan Reddy, nephew of the slain leader, wanted a CBI inquiry, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu found fault with the slain leader's family for "destroying evidence" and ruled out a probe by the central agency. "This is precisely the reason why we are strongly demanding a CBI inquiry into the case. If the TDP has nothing to hide, why is it shying away from a CBI probe," YSRC senior leader and former minister Dharmana Prasada Rao asked. TDP MP Kanakamedala Ravindra Kumar, however, brushed aside the demand and accused the YSRC of insulting the state polices integrity. "Who wiped out the basic evidence in the case at the scene of offence, and why? This only makes it clear that a conspiracy was behind the heinous crime," Kumar said. The Congress on Saturday staked claim to form a government in Goa stating that the Manohar Parrikar government has lost the trust of the people and the strength in the Goa Assembly following the demise of BJP MLA Francis D'Souza. This comes at a day when the Goa CMO clarified that the health condition of CM Manohar Parrikar is stable, rubbishing reports claiming otherwise. In a letter to Goa Governor Mridula Sinha, Leader of Opposition Chandrakant Kavlekar demanded the dismissal of the BJP-led government which is in "minority" and ask the Congress "single-largest party to form a government". " Consequent upon the sad demise of Francis D'Souza, MLA who was belonging to the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), it is humbly submitted that the incumbent BJP led State Government under the leadership of Shri Manohar Parrikar which has long lost the trust of the people has also lost the strength of the House. Also, we anticipate that numbers of the BJP may further dwindle thus not allowing such a party in the minority to continue even for a moment," stated the letter. The party added that it anticipates that the numbers of the BJP may further dwindle and so such a party in the minority shouldn't continue even for a moment. The letter also stated that any attempt made to bring Goa under President's rule will be undemocratic and illegal and will be challenged, as deemed fit. "It is therefore incumbent upon you to dismiss this State Government led by the BJP and ensure that the Indian National Congress Party which is the single largest party in the august House and is presently enjoying the majority be called to form Government. Kindly note that any action in violation of the Constitutional mandate to invite the single largest party to form the Government and any attempt made to bring the State under President's rule will be undemocratic and illegal and will be challenged, as deemed fit," added the letter. "We are therefore staking our claim to form the State Government and demand that we be called to form the government forthwith by dismissing the incumbent BJP led Government," further added the letter. The strength of the state assembly has reduced from 40 to 37 after the death of D'Souza and resignation of two MLAs -- Subhash Shirodkar and Dayanand Sopte. While the Congress currently has 14 MLAs, down from 16 after Sopte and Shirodkar left it to join the BJP, the latter has 13 MLAs. Three MLAs each of the Goa Forward Party, MGP and an Independent and the lone NCP legislator are supporting the BJP. Bypolls to the seats previously held by Sopte, Shirodkar, and D'Souza are to be held along with Lok Sabha polls in the state on April 23. NEW DELHI: BJP national president Amit Shah has attacked the Congress party over the issue of national security and accused the main opposition party of always being soft on terrorism. Targeting Rahul Gandhi-led Congress, the BJP chief alleged that the main opposition party had always been hesitant about terrorism, separatism and Naxalism. Shah made these remarks in a strongly-worded blog in which he reiterated that while Congress has always been soft on terror, the Narendra Modi-led NDA government has firmly dealt with the issue of terrorism. Read my blog: https://t.co/OsaoUMklTR Amit Shah (@AmitShah) March 15, 2019 In his lengthy blog, Shah attacked Congress president Rahul Gandhi and accused him of politicising the Kandahar hijacking case for political gains at a time when the international community has mounted enormous pressure on Pakistan to act against the Jaish-e-Mohammad founder, Masood Azhar. It may be recalled that Masood's JeM had claimed the responsibility for the February 14 Pulwama terror attack in which at least 40 troopers were killed. The BJP president maintained while India has used all diplomatic channels to build more pressure on Pakistan and isolate it at the global levels, parties like Congress were making statements favouring the neighbouring country. This shabby face of Pakistan has been exposed before the world. In such a situation, Pakistan has been totally isolated vis a vis terrorist mastermind Masood Azhar and his organization Jaish-e-Mohammad, he said in his blog. He continued by saying that some political parties, including the Congress, were questioning the government, raising doubts over the valour of the armed forces, which was just helping terrorists. In the later part of his blog, the BJP president accused the Congress party of providing their consent to the then government to release terrorist like Masood Azhar. He alleged that then Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh were part of the all-party meeting in which they had agreed to release Masood Azhar to bring back the passengers held hostage at Kandahar. Shah also sought to remind that 10 years before the Kandahar flight hijacking, the then Congress government had released 10 terrorists in exchange for then Home Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed`s daughter Rubaiya Sayeed. Training his guns at Rahul Gandhi, Shah said the Congress chief has been blaming the BJP for the release of JeM founder Masood Azhar during the earlier NDA government but before making such "insensitive remarks" he should think about the mistakes committed by his own party. Shah further said that the decisions of his great-grandfather Jawaharlal Nehru on China and Kashmir had "turned into cancer for the country". The hard-hitting blog from the BJP chief came after Rahul Gandhi asked why Prime Minister Narendra Modi was not telling the nation that it was the earlier National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee, which had released Azhar - the man behind the Pulwama suicide bombing. Gandhi made these remarks while addressing a public rally in Gandhinagar. Shah added that by raising such questions, Rahul Gandhi was not just "displaying his insensitivity" but also questioning the ''wisdom of senior leaders of his own party.'' "This debate does not start nor end with the release of Masood Azhar. This list is long, and if discussed, the Congress will look like the guilty party," he wrote in the blog. Washington: In yet another warning to Pakistan, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has asked Islamabad to stop harbouring terrorists on its soil and do more to tackle the menace of terrorism, while also reminding that his country has still not forgotten the bitter lessons from the 9/11 terror attacks in New York. The warning from the US Secretary of State to Pakistan came as he chatted with Brian Kilmeade of Fox and Friends on Friday. To a question related to the recent India-Pakistan conflict in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack, Pompeo said, ''We saw what happened with India, the conflict that arose there as a result of terrorists that departed from Pakistan.'' ''We need the Pakistanis to step up. They need to stop harbouring terrorists," Pompeo said during the interview. The top-ranking US official reiterated that the Donald Trump Administration has taken strong action against Pakistan which no other previous governments have taken. Pompeo, however, stressed, "We need Pakistan to do more. They have to stop harbouring these terrorists." He made these remarks while referring to the recent escalation in tensions between the two nuclear states following the February 14 attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district that left at least 40 personnel dead. During the interview Pompeo was reminded that Pakistan still remains a breeding ground for terrorists and it is still providing training, arming and equipping the Taliban and without its support the Afghanistan terror outfit can't regroup itself. Replying to it, Pompeo said, ''Well, weve taken actions against Pakistan that no other administration has taken. I do see this. I see this from Ive had friends killed. You have too, Im sure. Lots of New Yorkers were killed when those towers came down. Ive not forgotten the lesson from 9/11. We need Pakistan to do more. They have to stop harbouring these terrorists.'' To a question on nuclear disarmament negotiations with North Korea, Pompeo expressed hopes that it would continue despite reports that Pyongyang is considering to suspend the talks. "We are hopeful that we can continue to hold this conversation," he said. Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Saturday slammed Pakistan after it sought to put a number of restrictions on the Indian pilgrims visiting the Gurudwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Pakistan. The CM asserted that while Indias agenda in the matter is religious, the intention of Pakistan is totally disruptive. He also criticised Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa. He remarked that while PM Khan talks of peace, the Army Chief continues to promote his evil designs. He added that the number of ISI-backed terror modules that have been busted in Punjab in recent months indicates their true intent. "Indias agenda is religious but Pakistan's is totally disruptive. While Pak PM talks of peace, their Army Chief continues to promote his evil designs. The number of ISI-backed terror modules busted in Punjab in recent months indicated their true intent," said the CM. The chief minister also said, "we disagree with some of the things Pakistan has recommended". "We disagree with some of the things Pakistan has recommended. First, we said 15,000 people should go. Second, we said you can't have passports. Why have a corridor if you want passports? The very fact that you have a corridor indicates it should have free access," added the CM. Addressing a press conference to mark two years of his government, Singh added, "Some identification was, of course, needed, but there was no need for passport etc," he said, adding that such requirement would deprive poor people. On Thursday, both the countries held delegation-level talks on the corridor to discuss modalities. On Friday government sources told news agency ANI that Pakistan has said the capping of Indian pilgrims visiting the shrine per day should be at 700. This comes even after India has approved facilities wherein up to 5,000 pilgrims can be handled daily and over 15,000 pilgrims on special occasions. India and Pakistan had last year agreed to open up a special border crossing linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in the neighbouring country's Kartarpur -- the final resting place of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak Dev -- to Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district. The two countries seek to open the corridor in November on the occasion of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak. LUCKNOW: In what marks the beginning of a new phase in Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party ties, Dalit icon Mayawati will campaign for veteran socialist leader and SP founder at an election rally in Mainpuri in the run-up to the Lok Sabha election 2019. According to SP spokesperson Rajendra Chaudhary, Mayawati will campaign he SP patriarch during a rally in the party's bastion Mainpuri - on April 19. The Mainpuri rally would be addressed by Mayawati, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) President Ajit Singh. The move is aimed at silencing the BJP which has been attacking Mayawati, reminding her of the infamous Guest House incident of June 1995 in which she was attacked by the SP leaders. The two titans of the UP politics had never shared the stage following the incident. It may be recalled that the SP patron has been named party candidate from Mainpuri. Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati will also hold 11 joint rallies to seek support for the SP-BSP-RLD alliance which has been stitched just before the Lok Sabha elections scheduled for April and May. Sharing more details, the SP spokesperson said that the joint rallies would be held to ensure "victories of alliance candidates and ouster of the BJP from the centre". The joint rallies have been designed to send a message that the workers of the two parties have set aside their political rivalry and joined ranks to defeat the BJP, he said. Accordingly, all campaign and publicity materials from now on will have the pictures of Mayawati and Mulayam Singh and hoarding would be set up displaying the election symbols of two parties.. As per the plan, Akilesh and Mayawati will address rallies at Deoband in Saharanpur (April 7), Badaun (April 13), Agra (April 16), Mainpuri (April 19), Rampur and Firozabad (April 20). Firozabad will witness a big battle at the hustings between SP-BSP candidate Akshay Yadav, cousin of Akhilesh Yadav, and his estranged uncle and Pragatisheel Samajwadi Party-Lohia (PSP-L) President Shivpal Singh Yadav. After a brief break, Mayawati and Akhilesh yadav will address rallies at Dimple Yadav`s constituency Kannauj on April 25, Faizabad (May 1), Azamgarh (May 8) and Gorakhpur (May 13). The joint campaign will conclude with a rally in Varanasi, the constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on May 16. The SP is contesting 37 seats under the seat sharing deal while the BSP will contest 38 seats. Three seats have gone to the RLD while two seats, Amethi and Rae Bareli, have been left for the Congress. NEW DELHI: Amid global pressure on Pakistan to act against terror operators active on its soil, the Indian intelligence agencies have exposed Islamabad's new game plan to spread havoc in India. According to the inputs gathered by the Indian intelligence agencies, Pakistan's notorious spy agency ISI is exploring new ways to execute its nefarious anti-Indian designs and, for that, it has started efforts to bring between together the two deadly terrorist outfits - Jaish and Taliban. It has now come to light that much before the IAF airstrikes in Pakistan's Balakot, the top commanders of Jaish, Taliban and the Haqqani Network had held a secret meeting in Pakistan. During the secret meeting, it was agreed that the fighters of Jaish, Taliban and the Haqqani network will jointly wage a 'jihad' against India. The top commanders of the three terrorist outfits decided to carry out joint terror strikes in parts of India and Afghanistan to unleash terror and mayhem. In view of the intelligence warning, the Indian security agencies have been keeping a hawk's eye on the terror activities of these outfits. Sharing more details, a security official said that the meeting of Jaish, Taliban and the Haqqani Network was held between December 15-20 in Pakistan. He added that the Taliban, which has been trying to regroup itself and has carried out major terrorist attacks targeting the US-allied forces and the Afghan National Forces, will impart training to the Jaish fighters to carry out major suicide attacks in parts of India. In view of the intelligence inputs, the security agencies are now concerned about the possible terror attacks on Indians and Indian Mission in Afghanistan by these groups. According to the intelligence shared by the agencies, Pakistan's ISI has always been eager to create a nexus between Jaish, Taliban and the Haqqani Network. Ever since the United States expressed its intentions to hold talks with Taliban as part of the plan to establish peace in Afghanistan, Pakistan's ISI has been trying to take advantage of the situation, the agencies claimed. The ISI has been provoking the three terrorist outfits to prepare its warriors for major terror attacks in India and Afghanistan, the agencies warned. The intelligence inputs gathered by the agencies after the IAF airstrikes in Balakot have raised alarm bells as they claim at least 16 terror groups are still active in PoK where terrorists are being imparted arms training. Out of those 16 terror camps, five are in Mudrike, Bahawalpur, three in Manshera and 11 in PoK. At 560 terrorists were trained in these camps last year. The terrorists were trained in how to carry out blasts using IEDs and sea warfare. The camps where these training is being given to Pakistan-backed terrorists are located in Boi, Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Barnala, Laka-e-Gair, Sherpai, Devlin, Khalid-bin-Walid, Garahi, Dupatta in the PoK. The reports said that the IAF airstrikes in Balakot were very successful as they hit the targets identified by the Indian intelligence agencies by tracing the mobile signals of at least 350 terrorists. It is to be noted that China had recently put on technical hold a proposal moved by France, UK, and the US and backed by several countries to designate Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. HYDERABAD: Three Indians are feared dead in the deadly New Zealand Christchurch's twin mosque terror attack that claimed at least 49 lives and injured over 40. Thirty-one-year-old Farhaj Ahsan a software engineer from Hyderabad, 25-year-old Ancy Ali a post-graduate student from Kerala`s Thrissur, and Musa Wali Suleman Patel from Gujarat have reportedly died in Friday's terror attack. Patel's brother Haji Ali Patel told news agency ANI that he was shot in the back and later rushed to hospital by the police in a critical condition. He died while undergoing treatment at the hospital. It is currently 24 hours but hospital administration or New Zealand government is not giving any answer. I have been trying to contact my sister-in-law but there is no response," he said while urging the Centre and Gujarat government to help in reuniting the family. Thrissur-based Ancy, who migrated to New Zealand with husband Abdul Nassar in 2018, was among the first victims of the terrorist. She was pursuing post-graduation in Christchurch. The couple lived near the twin mosques, an officer at the Kodungalloor police station in Thrissur told IANS. Ahsan's family also confirmed his death while undergoing treatment. "We have received information that my brother was killed in the attack," said his elder brother Kashif Ahsan, who lives in Nadeem Colony of Toli Chowki area in Hyderabad. Ahsan's wife and her uncle rushed from Australia after receiving the news of his death. The world watched in horror as 28-year-old Australian man Brenton Tarrant opened fire at two mosques full of worshippers attending Friday prayers, killing 49 and injuring over 40. The entire attack was live streamed on social media, prompting tech giants including Facebook and YouTube to pull down the videos, remove the associated accounts, and stop the spread of the 17-minute-long violent act on the internet. India's High Commission in New Zealand on Saturday said that it has been pursuing with local authorities whereabouts of seven Indians and two Indian-origin persons after the terror attacks on two Christchurch mosques. "We have been pursuing with NZ authorities whereabouts of 9 Indians, incl 2 PIOs. 2 indians receiving treatment. Following up with NZ Govt for others. Also r in regular touch with their families (sic)," the Twitter account of the Indian High Commission in New Zealand said. The mission has tweeted two contact numbers 021803899 and 021850033 for providing assistance. Approximately 200,000 Indian and Indian-origin people live in New Zealand. There are over 30,000 Indian students in the country, according to the Indian High Commission's data on its website. In a tragic incident, a woman police officer was killed by terrorists on Saturday in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir. The woman special police officer (SPO), identified as Khushboo Jan, was killed at her village in Vehil area of the district in the afternoon, according to the Jammu and Kashmir Police. She had sustained critical injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital where she succumbed, added the J&K Police. The state police condemned the terror act. "Terrorists today fired on a policewoman Khushboo Jan at her village in Vehil area of Shopian district. She sustained critical injuries & was evacuated to a hospital where she succumbed. We condemn this gruesome terror act & stand by her family at this critical juncture," said the police. The police have registered a case and initiated an investigation in the matter. The security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a search operation. LUCKNOW: Ahead of the Lok Sabha election, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday claimed that he never called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a "chor" (thief) even once while sounding confident that his party's alliance with the Bahujan Samaj Party will stop the Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from winning in Uttar Pradesh. Lashing out at the BJP, Akhilesh told ZEE Uttar Pradesh Uttarakhand on Saturday, I have never said that the watchman is a thief (chowkidar chor hai). But for a political party claiming to be the world's largest, what kind of norms are these. An MP is hitting MLA with shoes." Modi has projected himself as a "chowkidar" who is keeping the country safe from corruption and external threats. Two-and-half persons (Modi, Amit Shah and Yogi Adityanath) have been troubling the public. Whoever bothers the public, the public changes them. The Modi government has failed to deliver on its promises. The double-engined government too could not develop UP. The PM and CM Yogi are cutting ribbons and inaugurating our works," alleged Akhilesh. What did the government do for the poor, the farmers and the unemployed? The BJP was earlier distributing certificates on being a Hindu and now on patriotism. Pakistan is our enemy. Anyone living in this country is a nationalist,' he added. According to him the alliance of small parties such as SP, BSP, RLD and Nishad Party will stop the Modi juggernaut in the Lok Sabha election. He added that 29 small parties are expected to be a part of the grand alliance. The SP, the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal have formed an alliance in Uttar Pradesh to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha poll. The SP has so far announced the names of 17 candidates of its quota of 37 seats. Speaking on the Congress, the SP chief said, Congress's contesting election alone will not harm the grand coalition. They are, however, welcome to join us. Yadav further said that several BJP leaders are in touch with SP. Defection has been happening, some BJP leaders are in touch. BJP MP Shyama Charan Gupta, who represents Prayagraj in the Lok Sabha, joined the SP on Saturday. He'll contest the upcoming national election from Banda in the states Bundelkhand region. This time there'll be a new government and a new Prime Minister. This is the time for the grand coalition. The country wants change, said the 45-year-old politician. The former UP Chief Minister also called out the ruling party for failing to designate Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Azhar Masood aa an international terror as per the UN list. Lucknow: RLD vice president Jayant Chaudhary met BSP supremo Mayawati on Saturday and discussed ways to improve coordination among alliance partners ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. The Rashtriya Lok Dal will contest three Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh as part of an alliance with the SP and the BSP. "Mayawati is a senior leader and I had gone to take her blessings...Under the leadership of Mayawati-ji and Akhilesh-ji (SP chief) I am confident that this will be an effective alliance," Chaudhary told newspersons later. Speaking on the meeting, Chaudhary said the discussion was held on ways to improve coordination between the alliance partners and the message that has to be given to the workers. "I have full confidence that our workers will work hard for the candidates of the alliance on all the 80 seats (in the state)," he said. RLD spokesman Anil Dubey, who accompanied Jayant Chaudhary said both the leaders discussed the coming elections especially the poll preparation and campaign in the western region on the state. Besides Mayawati, BSP national general secretary Satish Chandra Misra was also present during the meeting, Dubey said. New Delhi: The Election Commission on Saturday barred political parties from releasing election manifestos in the last 48 hours before polling. The commission has now made the release of election manifestos a part of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), which is a set of rules to be followed by parties after elections are announced. The amended model code now states, "In case of single phase election, manifesto shall not be released during the prohibitory period, as prescribed under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act 1951. "In case of multi-phase elections, manifesto shall not be released during the prohibitory periods, as prescribed under Section 126 of the RP Act of all the phases of those elections." Section 126 of the act embodies "election silence", which prohibits any form of the election campaign in the last 48 hours leading up to voting. As of now, there was no rule on the timing of the release of manifestos. In 2014, the BJP had released its Lok Sabha manifesto on the day of voting in the first phase. Although the Congress had complained to the EC, stating this would influence voters, the commission was unable to act since the MCC is silent on the timing of the manifesto's release. A panel formed by the EC had recently recommended that parties be barred from releasing manifesto in the last 72 hours before polling. While several parties were silent on the issue, Congress had opposed the proposal. Since the model code is not a law, any violation leads to a reprimand by the EC. In the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections, parties cannot release manifesto in the last 48 hours before each phase on April 11, 18, 23, 29, May 6, 12 and May 19. NEW DELHI: The Narendra Modi-Amit Shah powered BJP is expected to release its first list of 100 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha election 2019 on Saturday. If reports are to be believed, the first list of 100 candidates will be announced by the top BJP leadership following a meeting of the partys central election committee. The meeting is scheduled to start around 4 PM on Saturday. According to reports, the election committee meeting will be chaired by PM Narendra Modi at party headquarters in the national capital. It will be attended by top party leaders including party president Amit Shah, Arun Jaitley, Rajnath Singh, Sushma Swaraj, Nirmala Sitharaman and others. As per the BJP sources, the BJP is likely to announce its first list of candidates for Maharashtra and Karnataka. The list is also likely to include the names of candidates of 8 western UP seats including Ghaziabad and Noida (Gautam Buddha Nagar). Earlier on Friday, the BJP sealed a deal with its ally Apna Dal to jointly contest Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh. With the resolve of the Narendra Modi government once again (Phir Ek Baar Modi Sarkar), the BJP and the Apna Dal will fight the Lok Sabha elections in UP together, BJP chief Amit Shah posted on Twitter. BJP's Parliamentary Board had met on March 8 during which it was decided that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls from Varanasi. In 2014, PM Modi had won from Varanasi with 5,81,022 votes. The constituency holds greater importance in the wake of polls as the Prime Minister, along with the BJP allies, had managed to win all eight assembly constituencies in the city during the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections. Lok Sabha polls are set to begin in seven phases from April 11. The same will conclude on May 19. The counting of votes will be done on May 23 and the results will be announced later in the day. Bikaner: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Devi Singh Bhati has resigned from the party citing anti-party activities by another party leader, Bikaner MP Arjun Ram Meghwal. His resignation came on Friday. Bhati added that he had also informed all senior party leaders about it. "I've resigned due to anti-party activities of Bikaner MP, Arjun Ram Meghwal. I told about this to all senior party leaders but it seems they have made up their mind to give him the ticket again," Devi Singh Bhati said. Gandhinagar: The female face of the two-and-a-half-year Patel agitation in Gujarat, Reshma Patel, who had later joined the ruling BJP, on Friday resigned from it, saying the party was only a "marketing company" and nothing else. A key member of the Patidar movement spearheaded by Hardik Patel, Reshma Patel tendered her resignation to Gujarat BJP President Jitu Vaghani. In her letter, she said, "BJP has now become only a marketing company and we are being taught to market the false policies and false schemes of the government and fool the public. "But we want to work to serve the public and bring a positive transformation and work for the country." Reshma Patel added, "But the autocratic behaviour of BJP leaders have always been compelling the BJP workers to toil as labourers and BJP workers are there only for toiling. "I no longer wish to continue suffering and injustice being meted out and so (am) freeing myself from the sinful partnership of such autocratic leaders, resigning from the party in public interest." She had joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Gujarat after she was convinced that all the demands from the Patel community had been accepted by the government. The BJP has been in power in Gujarat for more than two decades, primarily backed by the Patel community. When Patel was inducted into the BJP along with a couple of other Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS), she was assigned the role of a spokesperson. But lately, Reshma Patel had been upfront on her stand against the party and had been openly vocal about it. She had been criticizing the BJP over various issues. NEW DELHI: Amid confusion over Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi's programme to tour eastern hotbed of Uttar Pradesh, the main opposition party on Saturday clarified that it has not been cancelled but some modifications have been made. Issuing a statement, the party said that Priyanka Gandhi's UP tour programme has not been cancelled. As per the security protocol, the programme is being tweaked, the party said. ''This is due to Priyanka's programme schedule was leaked minute to minute,'' the Congress party said. It was earlier reported that Priyanka Gandhi will kick-off Congress' Lok Sabha campaign from the political hotbed of eastern Uttar Pradesh - Prayagraj and Varanasi. The Congress party had reportedly planned a boat ride for Priyanka from Allahabad to Varanasi as a unique initiative to establish a direct contact with people. Priyanka Gandhi was earlier scheduled to arrive in Lucknow on Friday but she is now expected to launch her campaign from March 18, a senior Congress leader had said. UPCC president Raj Babbar had said on Wednesday that Priyanka would be arriving in Lucknow on Friday but hours later he had informed that the programme was postponed. The party had even written a letter to the Election Commission seeking its permission for Priyanka's boat ride programme from Prayagraj to Varanasi beginning March 18 to March 20. In the letter, the party said that Priyanka will use a motorboat, taking the river route to cover the distance of around 100 kms, and various events to welcome her have been scheduled all along, for which permission was required in accordance with the Model Code of Conduct. Priyanka, 47, who was recently appointed Congress general secretary in-charge of eastern UP, is expected to cover a distance of about 110 to 112 km touching Prayagraj, Bhadohi, Mirzapur and Varanasi. She is expected to arrive in Prayagraj on March 18 and later visit the historic Anand Bhawan, the erstwhile official residence of the Nehru family, now dedicated as a museum housing the personal belongings of Jawaharlal Nehru and his father Motilal Nehru. Congress circles say that Priyanka may offer prayers at Maa Vindhayavasini temple in Mirzapur and Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi, the Lok Sabha constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday said that newly-appointed Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's entry into politics will make "no difference" to the BJP's poll prospects in the state. Dismissing the newly-stitched SP-BSP alliance, the firebrand saffron leader said that it posed no threat to his party and its allies. "The Congress has made her (Priyanka) its general secretary (in-charge of eastern UP) this time. It is an internal matter of that party. Earlier too she had campaigned for the Congress. This time also it will make no difference (to the BJP)," the UP CM said. Yogi Adityanath also claimed that the "fledgling" SP-BSP alliance is already "embroiled in dispute". "The new-found alliance is already embroiled in a dispute. It (alliance) is nothing but a 'hauaa' (false alarm)," he said in his first interview after the Lok Sabha poll schedule was announced Sunday. The comments from UP Chief Minister came in the wake of reports that Priyanka is set to launch her party's Lok Sabha election 2019 from Prayagraj on March 18. Priyanka Gandhi will kick-off Congress' Lok Sabha campaign from the political hotbed of eastern Uttar Pradesh - Prayagraj and Varanasi. The Congress party had also reportedly planned a boat ride for Priyanka from Allahabad to Varanasi as a unique initiative to establish a direct contact with people. Priyanka, 47, who was recently appointed Congress general secretary in-charge of eastern UP, is expected to cover a distance of about 110 to 112 km touching Prayagraj, Bhadohi, Mirzapur and Varanasi. She is expected to arrive in Prayagraj on March 18 and later visit the historic Anand Bhawan, the erstwhile official residence of the Nehru family, now dedicated as a museum housing the personal belongings of Jawaharlal Nehru and his father Motilal Nehru. Congress circles say that Priyanka may offer prayers at Maa Vindhayavasini temple in Mirzapur and Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi, the Lok Sabha constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Mumbai: Actor Vivek Dahiya says he is not aiming to play Shaktimaan, but wants to take up more meaningful roles. The "Yeh Hai Mohabbatein" actor recently wrapped up shooting for finite series "Qayamat Ki Raat". The actor isn't happy with the kind of shows being offered to men on TV. "I've grown up watching shows like 'Dekh Bhai Dekh', 'Office Office' and 'Byomkesh Bakshi' which had enough scope for male actors to flourish on the small screen before the entire wave of women-oriented shows took TV by storm," Vivek said in a statement. "Change is constant and also welcome but if not more, we need to reflect on at least maintaining an equal platform for male actors. They don't make shows like that anymore. "It baffles me with the kind of work that comes along sometimes when you're reduced to playing just a love-interest to the empowered female protagonist. I'm not aiming to play Shaktimaan and perform stunts but I want to play a more meaningful role that brings out my strengths. It's okay to be picky but at the end of the day, I want every action to count," he added. Hollywood actor Michael Madsen is part Anushka Shetty and Madhavan Ranganathans Silence. The makers themselves have announced the news on their official Twitter handle. The film is yet to go on floors and it is expected that it will begin in the month of April in Seattle, United States. Michael is pretty popular for his roles in films like Quentin Tarantino's movies Kill Bill, The Hateful Eight, Reservoir Dogs to name a few. Micheal Madsen has appeared in more than 100 Hollywood movies and for the first time he is doing an Indian film. Silence will be directed by Hemant Madhukar and will be shot in Telugu, Tamil and English languages simultaneously. Seattle based production house People Media Factory, in association with Kona Film Corporation is producing Silence with stars from Hollywood, Bollywood and Tollywood. With Baahubali, Anushka Shetty has become popular and she is now a pan India star. R Madhavan does not need any introduction and the production house feels great to have him on board. Subbaraju, Anjali, Shalini Pandey, Avasarala Srinivas and others will also be playing vital roles in this film. Speaking on the occasion People Media Factory, CEO Vishwa Prasad said This is a kind of film that will entertain, engage and cheer the audience across continents. Every screening of the film to a global audience will end up in a standing ovation and we expect the film to perform well all over. The teaser of the film will be released in Seattle the month of May and shooting will start in the US from April to June. New Delhi: Afghanistan on Saturday summoned a Pakistani diplomat official from the embassy in Kabul in a strong protest over Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's statement of a new government in Afghanistan soon. The Afghan foreign ministery told the Pakistani diplomat that PM Khan's remarks were interference in the internal affairs of the country and demanded an explanation to it. The spokesperson of Afghanistan's foreign ministry Sibghatullah Ahmadi said, "Ministry of Foreign Affairs asked Pakistani Counselor for clarification on the recent remarks by PM Imran Khan regarding the establishment of a new government in the near future. The government of Afghanistan expressed its grave objection & deemed such remarks a flagrant interference in its intern affairs". Speaking at a public gathering in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Bajaur, Pakistan PM had said, "A good government will soon be established in Afghanistan." The remark by PM Khan comes in the backdrop of Islamabad's close ties with the Taliban and Pakistan's attempts to control the Afghan peace process. This is for the second time a Pakistani diplomat has been summoned by Afghanistan in a month. A few weeks ago Afghanistan summoned Zahid Nasrullah, the Pakistani envoy to Afghanistan after he said that Afghan peace talks will be impacted if New Delhi retaliates after the Pulwama terror attack in which India lost 40 CRPF personnel. Afghanistan has also complained to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) against Islamabad due to its engagement with the Taliban and attempts to subvert the Afghan peace process. Pakistan government had invited the Taliban for talks along with the US in Islamabad, infuriating Kabul. The meet was canceled by the Taliban after the letter by the Afghanistan government to UNSC. The Afghanistan government said, not only they were not consulted before the meeting was to take place but the meet undermines the ongoing peace efforts and violates Afghanistan's national sovereignty. There has been growing pressure from India, Afghanistan, and Iran on Pakistan to dismantle the terror groups in its territory but Islamabad hasn't shown any keenness. Washington: The Trump administration is now focused on pressing Pakistan to take "sustained and irreversible" actions against terrorist groups operating from its soil, a senior American diplomat has said. Recently, tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14. A senior State Department official said Friday that the US stood "publicly and resolutely" with India in its response to the attack. "Now we are focused on pressing Pakistan to take sustained, irreversible action on terrorist groups operating on its soil, and we are working with others in the international community to achieve this goal," the official said. "The United States stood publicly and resolutely with India in its response to the attack, as you saw in our statements, while joining the international community in encouraging both sides to avoid military escalation, de-escalate tensions and communicate directly," he said. In the aftermath of the Pulwama attack, the United States has not only supported India's right to self-defence, but also has been building sustained pressure on Pakistan to take action against terrorist groups. Earlier in the day, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told Fox News that Pakistan has to stop harbouring terrorists. "We saw what happened with India, the conflict that arose there as a result of terrorists that departed from Pakistan. We need Pakistanis to step up. They need to stop harbouring terrorists," he said. Pompeo had played a key role in de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan after Indian jets carried out air strikes at terrorist training camps of JeM in Balakot. Senior officials who are part of the de-escalation efforts in South Asia believe that this is only possible as long as there is no terrorist attack inside India coming from Pakistan. The recent talks between India and Pakistan on Kartarpur corridor is considered as a positive development in the US. The US officials believe that both Islamabad and New Delhi have shown seriousness in de-escalating the tensions. At the same time, they believe that the onus for this largely lies on Pakistan. If Pakistan continues with its age-old policy of supporting terrorist groups, the Trump administration may look into other options which could range from selective visa ban, revoking its non-NATO ally status and even cutting civilian aid to Pakistan. Since January 2018, US President Donald Trump has stopped all security assistance to Pakistan. It is understood that the focus for the Trump administration is not on any punitive action against Pakistan, but to convince its leadership including Prime Minister Imran Khan and Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa that it is in their interest to take sustained and irreversible actions against terrorist groups. The focus right now is to convince Pakistan that it is not in its interest to be isolated from the international community and it is in its interest to maintaining stable relationship with India. Post Balakot, Pakistan has been told time and again that the reason that the situation is fragile in South Asia is because of cross border terrorism. In the wake of the Pulwama terror attack, India launched a major diplomatic offensive against Pakistan, holding briefing for envoys of 25 countries, including those from the five permanent UNSC members -- the US, China, Russia, the UK and France -- to highlight Islamabad's role in using terrorism as an instrument of state policy. Slovaks voted Saturday in round one of a presidential election that a vocal government critic appears poised to win after an investigative journalist's murder dealt a blow to the ruling elite. Frontrunner Zuzana Caputova, 45, was among tens of thousands of protesters who took to the streets of the eurozone country of 5.4 million last year after the killing raised concerns about media freedom and political corruption. Opinion polls give the environmental lawyer and mother of two a double-digit lead over European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic, a 52-year-old career diplomat backed by the ruling Smer-SD party. Caputova may have also got a last-minute boost after prosecutors charged a businessman believed to have ties to Smer-SD with ordering the murder of the journalist. Yet, voters could interpret progress in the case as a sign of a functioning government. "Sefcovic appeals to those with a certain satisfaction with the progress of a country which, by many indicators, has not done at all badly over the last decade," said Kevin Deegan-Krause, an expert on central Europe at Wayne State University. "Caputova attracts those who abhor corruption and who are dissatisfied with what they see as an increasingly... self-dealing government," he told AFP. Neither candidate is on track for an outright victory and a run-off vote for the largely largely ceremonial post is expected on March 30. - Murder probe update - Caputova, a deputy head of the non-parliamentary Progressive Slovakia party, told AFP that "people are calling for change". Journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancee were gunned down in February 2018, just as he was to publish a story on alleged ties between Slovak politicians and the Italian mafia plus associated irregularities in EU farm subsidy payments. The double murder and Kuciak's last explosive report, published posthumously, plunged the country into crisis. Then prime minister Robert Fico was forced to resign but he remains the leader of the populist-left Smer-SD and is a close ally of current premier Peter Pellegrini. Four people were charged last year with the killings. On Thursday, prosecutors announced they had also charged multimillionaire businessman Marian Kocner. Kuciak had been investigating Kocner's business activities and had allegedly received threats from him. "With this announcement, the authorities may have wanted to show just how effectively the state functions, so it could help Sefcovic gain some points," Bratislava-based analyst Grigorij Meseznikov told AFP. "On the other hand, this could also be a vindication for Caputova, as she is the symbol of change." Caputova has vowed to restore public trust in the state, running on a slogan of: "Let us stand up to evil". She is pro-choice and promotes greater rights for same-sex couples, views that may prove disadvantageous in conservative Slovakia. Caputova has been endorsed by outgoing President Andrej Kiska. - Slovakia 'polarised' - Maria Pavlova, a 67-year-old from the southern town of Nove Zamky, said "Slovakia is ready to have its first female president." Economist Katarina, 42, also voted for Caputova, telling AFP that "she will ensure equality and fairness. She is honest and sympathetic." But fellow Bratislava voter Milan Perunko believes Caputova does not have what it takes, unlike her main rival. "Sefcovic is an experienced multilingual diplomat who can immediately represent Slovakia in the world as soon as he's sworn in," the 54-year-old told AFP. Campaigning on the slogan "Always for Slovakia", Sefcovic has promised greater social benefits for the elderly and young families. "We need someone who will care about old people," said Bratislava pensioner Emilia Golejova, after casting her ballot for Sefcovic. A European Commission vice-president since 2014, Sefcovic is known for his million-dollar smile. A recent social media meme showed him with the caption "PresiDENT". Though an independent, Sefcovic has Smer-SD's backing, which guarantees him some voters but disqualifies him in the eyes of others. "I wouldn't vote for anyone who supports Fico or is supported by Smer," said Maria, a biology student from the western town of Piestany. "The Kuciak murder turned Slovakia upside down... Slovakia's still polarised and Smer hasn't changed a bit," she told AFP. Though the office is largely ceremonial, the president ratifies international treaties, appoints top judges and is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces. The head of state can also veto laws passed by parliament. Thirteen candidates are vying for the job, including Supreme Court judge Stefan Harabin, far-right MP Marian Kotleba and ethnic Hungarian politician Bela Bugar. Polling stations close at 2100 GMT. Search Keywords: Short link: Russia will not leave new European Union sanctions unanswered, the foreign ministry was cited by the RIA news agency as saying in a statement on Saturday. The United States, Canada and the European Union on Friday imposed fresh sanctions to punish Russia for its 2018 attack on three Ukrainian ships as well as its annexation of Crimea and its activities in eastern Ukraine. Search Keywords: Short link: Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on Saturday pardoned dozens of jailed rights activists and political opponents as part of a broader amnesty, his office said. Among the 50 pardoned were Elgiz Qahraman, Bayram Mammadov and Qiyas Ibrahimov of the Nida youth opposition movement and journalist Fikrat Faramazoglu. Leading opposition figures Fuad Qahramanli, Gozal Bayramli, and Alikram Xursudov were also among those pardoned. In all, amnesty covers a total of 431 people, according to Aliyev's decree published on his website. Under Aliyev, Azerbaijan has faced strong international criticism for silencing dissent and opposition media. Human Rights Watch has accused it of "cracking down on human rights activists and critical journalists". Last year, he secured a fourth consecutive presidential term with 86 percent of the vote, in elections criticised by international observers. He has ruled the oil-rich Caspian state since he was first elected in 2003, after the death of his father, Azerbaijan's Soviet-era Communist leader and former KGB general Heydar Aliyev. Search Keywords: Short link: You dont have to splurge to enjoy holiday activities in Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs. Here are some free holiday events taking place throughout the region including gingerbread house displays, parades, light shows, musical performances and much more. Chester County... Italy is investigating the mysterious death of a former model and witness at Silvio Berlusconi's sex trial, with a newspaper suggesting on Saturday she may have been poisoned with a radioactive substance. Milan prosecutor Francesco Greco said an investigation had been opened following the death on March 1 of Moroccan-born Imane Fadil at one of the city's hospitals. The 33-year-old had been taken to hospital on January 29 with unexplained stomach pains. Fadil was one of the witnesses who testified at the trial of the former Italian premier and media mogul on charges of having sex with an underage prostitute at one of his notoriously hedonistic bunga-bunga parties. According to Italy's Corriere della Sera daily, the hospital had run a battery of tests to determine the cause of her failing health, but finding nothing, had sent off samples to a specialised laboratory in the northern town of Pavia. The results came back on March 6, five days after her death, suggesting the presence of "a mixture of radioactive substances which are not normally available for purchase", the paper said, citing unnamed sources. Fadil's lawyer, Paolo Sevesi, said she had spoken to him about "her fear of having been poisoned", the AGI news agency reported. The former model first hit the headlines in 2012 when she gave detailed testimony about the goings-on at Berlusconi's parties at his villa in Arcore near Milan. She testified that the first time she went to a party, she saw two young women in nun costumes stripping in front of the then prime minister. Later, she said he himself handed her 2,000 euros ($2,300 at current rates) in cash, telling her: "Don't be offended." Speaking at a political meeting in the southern Basilicata, Berlusconi said he was "sorry when a young person dies. I never knew this person and I never spoke to them." "What I read about her declarations always made me think that they were contrived and absurd," he said. Berlusconi has faced a string of charges over the so-called Rubygate scandal linked to his parties and the underaged prostitute Karima El-Mahroug, also known as "Ruby the heart-stealer". Now 82, the billionaire businessman is currently on trial for paying a witness to give false testimony about his parties. Berlusconi is already being investigated or prosecuted for witness tampering in Milan, Sienna, Rome and Turin, each time for allegedly paying people to keep quiet about his bunga-bunga parties. Search Keywords: Short link: The widespread use of single-use plastic bags poses a very serious threat to the environment. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that between 500 billion and a trillion such bags are used worldwide each year (including at least 100 billion in the United States). Less than five percent of these bags are recycled; nearly all will remain in the environment for thousands of years. The manufacture and transport of single-use plastic bags requires vast amounts of water and fossil fuels (and even more for paper bags), and their disposal creates billions of pounds of solid waste and millions of tons of CO2 each year. These discarded bags often litter our streets and neighborhoods and end up in our oceans and waterways and kill countless birds, turtles and fish that ingest the plastic residue. In addition, plastic bags impose a significant financial burden on both businesses and consumers. U.S. retailers spend at least $4 billion annually on these bags, and much of that cost is passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices. Thus, it is not surprising that the Connecticut Food Association, which represents retail grocery stores in the state, strongly endorses a statewide ban on single-use plastic checkout bags. Indeed, Big Y, which hands out tens of millions of plastic bags at its 80 stores in Massachusetts and Connecticut (including North Haven), has announced that, beginning in 2020, it will no longer provide such bags to customers and will sell reusable bags to customers at a discounted price. New Britain, Stamford, Greenwich, Hamden and several other cities and towns in the state have enacted ordinances banning checkout plastic bags, and Branford, Guilford and other towns are actively considering such bans. In addition, California and Hawaii as well as numerous cities and towns in Massachusetts, New York, and other states have done so. The need for such action is very real and the momentum for a statewide ban in Connecticut is rapidly growing. The North Haven Conservation Commission hopes that these promising developments and the magnitude of the problem will inspire residents of North Haven to take action on behalf of a statewide ban on single-use plastic bags at the point of sale. We urge you to: 1.Use only reusable bags. 1.Ask Mike Freda and other members of the Board of Selectmen to vigorously lobby for a statewide ban. 1.Urge Rep. Yaccarino, Sen. Fasano, Sen. Looney, and other members of the legislature to enact a statewide ban during the current session. 1.Talk to family, friends, and others about why a statewide ban is necessary. 1.Emphasize to owners and managers of North Haven businesses the financial and environmental benefits of such a ban. Submitted by the North Haven Conservation Commission. Some parents are asking the Regional School District 13 Board of Education not to move forward with the administrations proposed cuts to the Applied Behavior Analysis programs staffing, sharing testimonies of their own experiences during a recent school board meeting. ABA is therapy for students with autism developed to help them integrate into regular classrooms. Students are also taught a wide range of skills, like cooking, making a bed and safety issues. ABA therapists also work with children on toilet training and other personal hygiene. District 13 is made up of students from Durham and Middlefield. These hardworking individuals should be respected and valued just as much as teachers, Durham resident Mariah Roy said during the March 13 meeting. They show up daily and work with the most challenging students. It worries me that the higher powers making decisions on behalf of my son's future don't know the true significance of the ABA staff. Superintendent of Schools Kathryn Veronesis proposed budget calls for ABA staff to work 10 months, instead of 12 months. The change will affect employee benefits, including paid sick and vacation days. The move is estimated to save the district about $69,400, according to budget documents. Overall, Veronesis $35.5-million budget includes a spending increase of $22,730, or 0.06 percent. Director of Student Services and Special Education Scott Rossignol, who attended the board meeting, told residents that the proposals in the budget would not directly impact child services. His focus is honoring the plans for care the staff and parents put together for each student and ensuring the district is able to deliver those services and those plans with fidelity and in a high quality manner. Several ABA staff members who attended the meeting declined to comment. About 10 residents, mostly parents of students who have benefited from the program, voiced their concerns, some getting emotional when recalling how much the ABA staff helped their children. Some parents said they felt the administrators proposing the cuts dont understand the work and love that the ABA staff provide students. I urge you to speak with them, I urge you to observe them, to see what they do, because they more than deserve to be full-time and give the kids the consistency and the continuity and the love, parent Caroline Furman said. Furman said when she came to the district with her daughter Kelly, who recently graduated from the Middlesex Transition Academy, she was quickly impressed and thrilled at the program. To me, the ABA staff is one of the cornerstones of this exemplary special ed program and I feel as though it has been severely damaged and... the staff has not been valued and not appreciated, Furman said. At least two Board of Education members also expressed concern that the cut would affect the districts ability to retain quality ABA staff. I just feel that if we're gonna make a drastic change like this, ... we're gonna lose good people that work with us, board member Christine Geraci said. Mental health work is very very challenging and to now tell these people that they can't have a paid day off, I feel is a little bit disgraceful. She said the ABA job market is very competitive and without high quality staff, they risk students being outplaced, which costs the district significant money. The Board of Education is expected to continue the conversation on staffing changes proposed in the budget, at a special board meeting on Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the library at Coginchaug Regional High School. bwright@record-journal.com 203-317-2316 Twitter: @baileyfaywright The ninth edition of Hakawy International Arts Festival for Children (4-16 March) brought eight international and nine Egyptian performances, the highest number to take place since the festival's founding.. This year saw performances from the UK, Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, France and USA, in addition to the Egyptian shows, in different theatrical formats: object theatre, puppet theatre, black theatre, physical theatre, musical theatre and modern dance. The shows took place across nine venues, including the Hanager Arts Center, the Tahrir Culture Center, venues in Historic Cairo, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the Jesuit Cultural Center, and the AUEED centre in Minya. The opening event included one of the greatest works from Egypts 1960s theatre scene, El-Leila El-Kebira, (The Grand Night), a puppet operetta with poetry by Salah Jahin, music by Sayed Mekawy, scenography by Mostafa Kamel and mise-en-scene by Salah El Sakka. The event commemorated renowned puppeteer Nagy Shaker, who passed away last year. A number of workshops and additional activities will take place in parallel to the shows on stage. For the third consecutive year, the mobile library Stories on 4 Wheels will provide story-telling to the young audience. Ahram Online is an official media partner of the ninth edition of the festival. 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 Business Indias oil imports from Iran slump 60% in February New Delhi, Mar 16 (Agencies) | Publish Date: 3/16/2019 12:12:58 PM IST Indias oil imports from Iran in February plunged by over 60 per cent from a year ago to about 260,000 barrels per day (bpd) as New Delhi cuts imports under a sanctions waiver deal with Washington, data compiled by Reuters showed. The United States introduced sanctions aimed at crippling Irans oil revenue-dependent economy in November but gave a six-month waiver to eight nations, including India, which allowed them to import some Iranian oil. India has been allowed by Washington to continue to buy about 300,000 bpd oil till early May. Indias February imports from Iran were about 4 per cent lower than Januarys purchases, the data showed. Iran was the eighth biggest oil supplier to India in February compared with seventh in January, and slipped from third position it held a year ago, the data showed. Last month Tehrans share in Indias overall oil imports declined to about 5 per cent from about 14 per cent a year earlier, the data showed. In the first 11 months of this fiscal year that began in April, Indias oil imports from Iran rose by 5.6 per cent to 486,400 bpd as refiners boosted purchases ahead of the U.S. sanctions drawn by discounts offered by Tehran, the data showed. Iran was hoping to sell more than 500,000 bpd of oil to India in 2018/19, its oil minister Bijan Zanganeh said last year, and had offered almost free shipping and an extended credit period to boost sales to the country. Indian refiners Hindustan Petroleum Corp and Bharat Petroleum Corp, Mangalore Refinery and Petroleum Corp and Indian Oil Corp together lifted 1.25 million tonnes or 9 million barrels of Iranian oil in February. Delivery of some cargoes is delayed to March as Tehran has a limited number of ships. In the previous fiscal year that ended on March 31, 2018 Indian refiners cut purchases from Iran due to a dispute over the award of development rights of a giant gas field. Government sources say Reuters calculations showing Indias oil imports from Iran in this fiscal year would be higher than the 452,000 bpd, or 22.6 million tonnes, it imported in the previous year, were correct. Indias total oil imports in February were about 5 million barrels, a growth of about 4.6 per cent from a year earlier, the data showed. Anuradha Shukla By Express News Service NEW DELHI: With the merger of Dena Bank and Vijaya Bank with Bank of Baroda (BoB) coming into effect from April 1, the BoB management is reportedly forcing staff of the other two banks to sign an allegedly one-sided and discriminatory contract before March 16. Even as final negotiations regarding the wages are on, Dena Bank and Vijaya Bank employees have received a letter from BoB, asking them to sign the offer of employment or to opt for the Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS). While the letter asked employees of both the banks to exercise either of the options before March 16, it did not specify the terms and conditions of employment. This would be decided later by the Board of Bank of Baroda, according to the letter. You are hereby offered to hold office and service in Bank of Baroda, from the effective date i.e., April 1, 2019, on the terms and conditions as may be decided by the Board of Directors of Bank of Baroda, said the offer letter, a copy of which is accessed by this publication. The staff of both Dena Bank and Vijaya Bank called this discriminatory. We were told that our interests will be protected, but the BoB is using indirect methods to force VRS on us. We cannot be forced into signing the consent letter without knowing the terms and conditions. As per the initial negotiation, our wages and promotional terms and conditions will not be at par with (that of) Bank of Baroda (staff), which is discriminatory, a Vijaya Bank employee said told this paper. The employees are also bothered by the transfer policy. There are many branches of Dena Bank and Bank of Baroda, which are overlapping. While the amalgamation process is still on, the staff fears mass transfer of Dena Bank employees. So, this is like blackmailing us into either working on unsaid terms and conditions or taking VRS, said a Dena Bank employee. Meanwhile, the banks union has already termed the whole process illegal. The whole process of amalgamation is illegal, unethical and done in a hasty manner. There was no need for opting for Alternative Mechanism. And while the petition is already in the Supreme Court, they are forcing this contract on employees, just to show that employees are agreeing to the merger, S Nagarajan, general secretary, All India Bank Officers Association said. The All India Vijaya Bank Officers Union has said that the manner in which the merger is done is highly questionable. This is totally pressure tactics and a highly questionable move. While those who are about to retire may opt for VRS, many young employees will go ahead and sign it to save their future jobs, said K Srinivasarao, general secretary, All India Vijaya Bank Officers Union. The queries sent to Bank of Baroda by this correspondent remained unanswered. A case in point When merger of SBI came into effect, 4,000 employees at SBI and associates opted for VRS Till date, there is a difference in pay, perks and promotion policy that associate banks employees feel they are getting a step-motherly treatment, even in HR policy In July last year, 70,000 officers of the associate banks were asked to return the compensation for extra work during demonetisation By Express News Service CHENNAI: In yet another case of alleged animal abuse, a man has been accused of sexually abusing four puppies in an empty ground at Mathur near Madhavaram on Thursday. This is not the first he was seen misbehaving with the puppies. Twenty days ago, the man in his 20s was seen abusing the pups at the second cross street in MMDA Colony, Mathur, and when confronted by the locals, he fled. On Thursday, the man was seen again abusing the puppies and when the residents scolded him, he again fled. After they informed me, we retrieved the video and lodged a complaint with the police, said Sai Vignesh, an animal activist from Chennai. The complaint was lodged with the Madhavaram Milk Colony police. The police are yet to file an FIR and have asked the activist to identify the person and inform them so that he could be arrested. When contacted, the station inspector said The nature of crime is unclear even after seeing the video. We need to have a legal opinion and hence only after the man is arrested, we will be able to file an FIR. By Express News Service CHENNAI: Nearly 40 days after Rs 10 lakh was robbed by attacking the staff of a private ATM refilling firm, two Nigerians and a woman have been arrested. A few others also are believed to be involved, police said. Police identified the three as I Akyo Maye (27) and B Amoo (26) of Nigeria and S Creya (21) of Manimangalam. Police said they were studying in the same college and the foreigners were her seniors. The womans role is being further investigated. The incident occurred on the night of February 7, when Murali and Devaraj, employees of an agency entrusted to replenish cash in Canara Bank ATMs went to an ATM at Moovendhar Nagar at Noombal. The agents did not close the shutter of the ATM. They had Rs 14 lakh remaining with them. While they filled Rs 4 lakh, a man wearing helmet and with hand gloves entered the kiosk and threatened the men to hand over the cash. Another man with mask and helmet was waiting outside the ATM. Since Devaraj and Muralidharan did not oblige, the assailant allegedly attacked Devaraj with a knife and escaped with Rs 10 lakh cash, the police officer said. Investigation is on. By Express News Service NEW DELHI: The Delhi Police busted four inter-state drug cartels with the confiscation of heroin worth Rs 334 crore and arrest of 12 gang members.DCP, Special Cell, Pramod Singh Kushwah said three people, including kingpin Shamuta Banu, 54, were arrested in one of the operations. We have seized 44.5 kg heroin worth Rs 180 crore from them, the DCP said, adding that the arrest of two members, Dhanji Gupta, 49, and Dheeraj Kumar, 24, from Bihars Rohtas district, took place on March 7. The two had collected a huge consignment from Nagaon in Assam and came to deliver to Indraprastha Park, Ring Road in Delhi. Kushwah said 21 kg of heroin was seized from their possession. Interrogation revealed the duo bought the drug from Banu. A raid at Banus residence in Assam on Tuesday led to another cache of 23.5 kg of heroin. Banu is a resident of Assams Nagaon, the DCP said. The gang were supplying heroin procured from Myanmar and was active in Delhi, Rajasthan, Assam, Bihar and West Bengal. Banu supplied heroin to various peddlers in West Bengal, Bihar and UP. In the second operation, Afghans Ehsanullah (28), Mohammad Amin, 47 and Abdul Razzak, 43 and a Nigerian, Nnadozie Emmanuel, 32, were arrested for supplying drugs in Delhi and 2.5 kg heroin valued at `10 crore was recovered from their possession, Kushwah said. The carriers smuggled heroin by swallowing capsules. Each capsule weighs about 20 grams and each carrier can carry a few dozen capsules at one go, the DCP said. Two other operations led by DCP (Special Cell) Sanjeev Kumar Yadav led to the arrest of five alleged drug peddlers and confiscation of 36 kg of heroin worth over Rs144 crore. Two members of a Bareilly-based gang were arrested on March 8. The gang would procure heroin consignments from Myanmar, Afghanistan and Middle-East countries. In the second case, DCP Yadav said, the police arrested three people from the national capital and recovered six kilograms of heroin on Wednesday. Quality matters Quality of heroin smuggled from Myanmar is much better than the one produced in Manipur, according to a senior police officer. In 2018, the Special Cell had busted more than 25 narcotics cartels and recovered more than 275 kgs of heroin. By Express News Service HYDERABAD: Eminent scientists at the Defence Research and Development Organisations Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex Friday paid rich tributes to the brain behind missiles intelligence KV Ramana Sai, who passed away on March 4. Ramana Sai was born in Nellore to Kota Srinivasa Rao, a leading lawyer and well-known stage artiste, and Venkata Subamma. He finished his pre-university in VR High School and joined Anantapur University and later transferred to Kakinada University to pursue Electronics engineering. The 78-year-old was formerly associate director at Research Centre Imarat and had made vital contributions to the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme. His sustained research and development efforts over four decades strengthened self-reliance in indigenous avionics technologies. Ramana Sai conceived and established necessary infrastructure and facilities to steer R&D in advanced missile technologies essentially needed but denied to India due to restrictive control regimes. Dr G Satheesh Reddy, Chairman DRDO said, My mind is filled with countless memories of Ramana Sai, a visionary who designed the first on-board computer for guided missile applications in India. The mission critical on-board computers developed by Ramana Sai steered the countrys first missile Prithvi to a huge success in 1988 followed by successful mission of Agni in 1989. Shan A S By Express News Service THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Latvian tourist's disappearance and subsequent murder was a wake-up call to the Police Department. Until then, the capital city was considered safe. When news of her disappearance spread, the lack of enough security cameras on the beach, despite the frequency of innumerable tourists, was brought to light. Had there been more CCTV cameras, investigators could have easily spotted the location from where the tourist had disappeared. Therefore, the first corrective measure initiated by the police was to install CCTVs in designated areas. The then City Police Commissioner P Prakash prompted the Tourism Department to install cameras in and around Kovalam Beach. "There was a need for more cameras which was glaringly noticed after the Latvian woman tourist's missing and death. As a result, 50 cameras were installed in the area," he said. The police also took the help of private parties such as residence associations and shop owners to mount more cameras. After the macabre murder of the Latvian tourist, the police also intensified action against drug rackets. The two men arrested from Panathura in connection with the murder of the woman were claimed to be drug addicts. Following this, the Anti-Narcotics wing of the police intensified its functioning in the area. Prakash, who is now the DIG of the Armed Battallions, said the biggest anti-drug enforcement against the drug racket took place after the Latvian's murder. "The details of drug peddlers were collected and appropriate action was taken. Police patrolling along the beach was intensified to curb the sale of narcotics," said Prakash. Purging the beach off criminals and illegal hawkers also featured in the police agenda. "History of the people involved in various trades at the beach was checked. Those with criminal antecedents were thus identified and removed. Illegal hawkers were also asked to leave," he said. Steena Das By Express News Service THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A year since the disappearance and murder of 33-year-old Latvian national at Kovalam, heavy security measures implemented at the beach during the time have visibly decreased. Nevertheless, visitors, especially foreign tourists, vouch for Kovalam's safety. "I'm visiting Kovalam beach for the fifth time since 2013. Its been 1.5 months since my vacation here this time. Not a single person has misbehaved with me during these years, says Viktoriya Kirchhof from Germany. Citing a recent incident, she said, Last week we were standing near the parking area of the beach around 8 pm. Many people, including police personnel and autorickshaw drivers, came to us asking if we were alright. In fact, we feel secure. Milan Akselrod from Russia is aware of the Latvian tourist's tragic end. Reacting to the incident she said, People here are benevolent, thus I feel safe. One odd incident does not make the place unsafe. I believe in God and destiny. Post the incident last March more CCTVs were installed at the beach premises to ensure safety and security. Soon after the incident, more than 50 CCTVs have been installed, right from the Kovalam Junction to the beachside, including the footpaths in front of restaurants. Police officials have increased the frequency of patrolling even during the odd hours to ensure safety, said Syed Ali, an auto driver at Palace Junction, Kovalam. Local fisherman Sathish Ambrose feels neither fishermen nor labourers would commit such heinous crimes. "Such crimes and related enquiries will affect our livelihood. Thus we support tourists and help the police by reporting abuses or harassment," he said. Kevin Joy, another local fisherman, added that soon after the incident, even minor scenes of misbehaviour were reported to the police. "The labourers, lifeguards, fishermen and speed boat drivers ensure the safety of tourists. We make sure no similar incident happens again," said Kevin. Sarath Kumar, a security guard feels the installation of CCTVs will reduce further crimes to a greater extent. Nevertheless, heavy security protocol which was in place soon after the crimes has lowered. "Like other incidents, this too has lost the attention of police and media," opined one of the lifeguards at the Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam. Albeit, police officers are rather vigilant. On Thursday, random boys were caught by the police. They hadn't paid heed when the police tried stopping them, instead sped away. Immediate action was taken in this regard. The police can't be blamed for every unfortunate incident, opined Gopakumar, a security guard at Kovalam. By Express News Service VIJAYAWADA: At the one-day workshop on road safety held in Vijayawada on Friday, it was revealed that there was a significant fall in the number of deaths caused as a result of road accidents from last year. In 2017, 8,111 people lost their lives due to road accidents, while in 2018, the figure has come down to 7,416. There was a fall in the number of accident cases registered in the State as well with 22,607 cases being reported last year and 19,928 cases this year. This was possible only because of the widespread awareness campaigns organised by Road Safety Awareness Committees. However, the State was ranked the tenth most dangerous in the country in terms of road safety while Telangana was ranked second. Addressing the workshop, Transport commissioner N Bala Subrahmanyam said that according to the National Road Safety Committee, 73 per cent of road accidents happen due to the negligence of drivers. There was a need to make drivers aware of traffic regulations and the importance of following them, he said. The transport department had acquired 481 breath analyzers, 49 speed guns, 13 towing vehicles and other instruments for road repair works with the Rs10 crore the State government allotted to the department as road safety fund, he added. In most cases, drivers in the age group of 18 to 35 become the victims of road accidents. Though road accident deaths have reduced in the State, Nellore and Guntur districts still need to pay attention to this as figures in these two districts are still high, said the Transport commissioner. Explaining how other countries give importance to road safety, Chief Secretary Anil Chandra Punetha, who attended the workshop as the chief guest, said countries like Norway and Sweden follow strict traffic rules and check whether the drivers are intoxicated and whether they are wearing seat belts and helmets every 15 kilometers on highways. Former DGP M Malakondaiah, Roads and Building department Principle Secretary Neerabh Kumar Prasad, Home department Principle Secretary AR Anuradha and other officials attended for the workshop. By Express News Service Ramesh Aravind adds zing to Queen remakes. This particular pub track is doubly special for it has the remix version of a popular track Sukaviva Surapaanam ede Swarga Samanam of Master Hirannaiahs play - Devadasi, which was performed on stage, and the last four lines, which are in English has the voice of Amitabh Bachchan. Ramesh Aravind tells us about how the legendary actor came into the picture. There is a pub song in the original and I was looking for a right parallel when I came across a song, which Master Hirannaih had placed for his play - Devadasi and he has this particular track placed in the end. Though it is a drama that was staged around 40 years ago, I felt it was up-to-date. I recommended that song to the producers, who in turn got the lyric rights from Master Hirannaih, and it was returned by Amit Trivedi, the music director of the film done in south Indian languages. And when we were thinking as to who will be the best fit to render the voice for the last four lines, I mentioned Amitabh Bachchans name. I thought there is no better icon than the legendary actor who can add weight to the song. The producers, who thought it was a great idea reached out to him and the legendary actor was kind enough to do this for us, explains Ramesh, adding that the track will be placed in all four languages. He feels doubly lucky as two of his projects have the presence of Amitabh. I was the writer of Amrithadhare, which was directed by Nagathihalli Chandrashekar had Amitabh made a special appearance. This film, which I am directing in two languages - Kannada and Telugu, I have the actor rendering his deep voice, he mentions. The film made under the banner Mediente International Films Ltd, Butterfly made in Kannada, features Parul Yadav and Kajal Agarwal as part of the Tamil version, Paris Paris, Manjima Mohan, plays the lead in the Malayalam version Zam Zam and Telugu version has Tamamnnah Bhatia and is titled as Mahalakshmi. With Satya Hegde as the cameraman for Kananda and Tamil, Ramesh has completed the post production and the director along with the team is now working out logistics to release the film in all four languages. By PTI NEW DELHI: A Delhi court directed the Tihar jail authorities on Saturday to produce CCTV footage on allegations of torture levelled by Christian Michel, an alleged middleman arrested in the AgustaWestland choppers scam case. Special judge Arvind Kumar directed the jail authorities to bring the CCTV recording of February 13 to 17 of jail number 7, where Michel was kept last month. ALSO READ: Rakesh Asthana threatened to make my life hell, Christian Michel tells Delhi court The court had earlier sought the CCTV footage of jail number 1 and after going through it, had noted that the premises were clean and that good facilities were provided to Michel. On March 14, the jail authorities had denied the allegations of torture levelled by Michel. Special public prosecutors D P Singh and N K Matta, appearing for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) respectively, had told the court that the accused was a foreigner and was brought to India through extradition. ED's counsel Samvedna Verma had told the court that "there is a responsibility of the country to ensure his security as per the treaty". On March 12, Michel had told the court that former CBI special director Rakesh Asthana had met him in Dubai and had threatened to "make his life hell inside jail" here if he did not toe the line of the agency. ALSO READ: Christian Michel claims in court CBI asked him to implicate certain persons "Sometime ago, Rakesh Asthana had met me in Dubai and had threatened that my life would be made hell in the jail and that is what is going on. My next door inmate is (gangster) Chhota Rajan. I do not understand what crime I have committed to be put along with terrorists and those who have killed several people," he had said. The jail authorities had said Michel was shifted to a high-risk prison considering threats to his life. The accused was arrested by the ED on December 22 last year after his extradition from Dubai. ALSO READ: ED attaches Paris property of Christian Michel's ex-wife The court had previously lashed out at the jail authorities for failing to justify the shifting of Michel to a high-security cell in isolation, saying it would order an inquiry if it did not get a proper response. Michel is among the three alleged middlemen being probed in the Rs 3,600-crore VVIP choppers scam by the ED and the CBI. The other two are Guido Haschke and Carlo Gerosa. By PTI NEW DELHI: The Congress launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, alleging that his government's flagship health insurance scheme Ayushman Bharat is not for common man but actually a "lifesaver" for private insurance companies and hospitals. Asserting that the government's claims about the success of the scheme are "fake and false", senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said beneficiaries can avail treatment costing only up to Rs 50,000 under this scheme on the premium of Rs 1,100 paid by the government. It is "not Rs 5 lakh promised by Modi, he has exaggerated it 10 times," the Congress leader alleged. "The claim that 'Modicare' has provided each household insurance cover of Rs 5 lakh is a huge fraud," he claimed. He further said that 11 crore people across the country are already covered under respective health insurance schemes of various states and the Centre's Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY). RSBY was started by the Congress-led UPA government, he added. FOLLOW OUR LOK SABHA POLL COVERAGE HERE Another party leader said there are several other "successful" initiatives. Ten crore people to be benefited under Ayushman Bharat are not over and above the 11 crore beneficiaries who are already availing benefits, he said, adding "Modi is trying to take credit for various health schemes through Ayushman Bharat." Emphasising that the Ayushman Bharat Yojana or Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), which is also described as "Modicare", is conceptually wrong, the Congress leader said, "It doesn't cover diabetes and high blood pressure, the two common ailments in India." "Patients will not have access to adequate healthcare under PMJAY because it excludes outpatient treatment, which 87 per cent of ailing persons undergo. Outpatient treatment is a serious financial burden that accounted for 63 per cent of the Rs 4,955 spent by households out of their pockets on health in 2014," he said. The country does not need health insurance which benefits private players but health assurance which helps the common man, which is possible through Right to Health as promised by Congress chief Rahul Gandhi. By UNI AGARTALA: At least 24 people, including two border guards, were injured when BSF resorted to baton charge on villagers allegedly for trying to help smugglers in despatching cows to Bangladesh last night at Putia village of Sonamura in Sepahijala district. The official report said the BSF found some people cows were cutting the wire fencing along Indo-Bangladesh border and tried to stop them. Initially, they challenged the border guard personnel and attacked BSF jawans that left two personnel - Md Siddiqur Rehaman and Md Amin injured. Meantime, a group of villagers rushed in support of the smugglers and together attacked the BSF who were only few in numbers. Within 10 minutes BSF reinforcement reached the spot and baton charged to retaliate the counter-attack, BSF claimed. The smugglers managed to mix up with the villagers and the cows were also released by the civilians. The report said that a group of youths of the village have been involved in smuggling for long time but BSF could not identify them. They have a criminal gang inside India and another side of border in Bangladesh where females are also used in adverse situation. Salema Khatun, who was injured in the incident, alleged that they did not know about smuggling activities but came out from the house hearing the sound of unusual movement of people in the darkness She accused the jawans of even entering their house and torturing women and children. Four children appearing in the Madhyamik examination were also beaten up mercilessly by BSF. They did not spare old persons and without any proof branded us as abetters of smugglers, she said. Later on police reached the area and took control of the situation. Altogether 10 injured persons were shifted to Agartala Government Medical College. Senior BSF officials, however, visited the area and held meeting with villagers to maintain peace. By Express News Service BHOPAL: Five days after the announcement of the Lok Sabha polls dates, pre-election violence seems to have already begun in Madhya Pradesh. A 50-year-old BSP leader, Devendra Chaurasia, who recently joined the ruling Congress, was murdered and his son Somesh (24) critically hurt in Damoh district on Friday, by a group of armed men allegedly led by Govind Singh, who is the husband of BSP legislator Rambai Parihar. The father-son duo was reportedly at a stone crusher they owned in Hatta town of Damoh district when they were attacked by a group of men led by Govind Singh. The group reportedly attacked the Chaurasia and Somesh with rods and sticks and then fled the spot. The victims were rushed to Jabalpur but Chaurasia succumbed while Somesh is critical. A case of murder and attempted murder has been lodged against seven persons on the complaint of the deceaseds family. The seven include BSP MLAs husband Govind Singh, his brother Chandu, nephew Golu and Inderpal Patel, the son of BJP-supported Damoh district panchayat chairman Shivcharan Patel. said sub-divisional officer police (SDOP-Hatta) Kamal Jain. By PTI BENGALURU: JDS leader and Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy Saturday termed party general secretary Danish Ali joining Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party, as a "political arrangement" between the two parties. Ali joined the BSP on Saturday in the presence of the party's national general secretary Satish Mishra in Lucknow. According to JDS sources, Ali is likely to contest Lok Sabha polls from Amroha in Uttar Pradesh on a BSP ticket as JDS has no presence there, his home state. "Danish Ali, the JDS General Secretary, has joined BSP in consent with me and our national president Sri HD Devegowda in a purely political arrangement between the two parties." FOLLOW OUR LOK SABHA POLL COVERAGE HERE "It is a thoughtful political decision taken by #JDS and BSP to win more seats in the Lok Sabha elections," Kumaraswamy tweeted. Ali as JDS' general secretary on Wednesday had successfully hammered out a seat-sharing deal with Congress President Rahul Gandhi, according to which Congress will contest 20 seats and JDS eight, in Karnataka. BSP had fielded candidates in 18 constituencies in the May 2018 assembly polls in Karnataka as per the alliance arrangement reached with JDS), which contested in 200 seats and won 37. N Mahesh is BSP's lone MLA in Karnataka, who became primary and secondary education minister in the Kumaraswamy cabinet before he quit in October last year. BSP has decided to go it alone during Lok Sabha polls in Karnataka and plans to contest for all the 28 seats in the state. Aishik Chanda By Express News Service KOLKATA: March 9, Tala Bridge, North Kolkata: 1,000 kg potassium nitrate ; March 14, Saltora, Bankura: 6,650 kg ammonium nitrate, 2,650 kg gelatin sticks, 52,500 detonators. The seizure of two massive consignments of explosive materials within a span of six days in different parts of south Bengal have indicated at plans of largescale use of high-powered bombs during the Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal, putting state security agencies on high alert. The seizures have also lent credence to BJPs demand for declaring all the 42 constituencies in West Bengal as super sensitive, protesting against which the ruling Trinamool Congress began a 48-hour dharna in central Kolkata Friday. Kolkata Special Task Force (STF) officers intercepted a goods vehicle, coming from Balasore in Odisha, at Tala Bridge on March 9 with 27 sacks containing 1,000 kg of ammonium nitrate. The interrogation of driver Indrajit Bhuin and helper Padmalochan Dey, both residents of Balasore, did not give a clear picture about the purpose or destination of the explosives, with the accused frequently changing their statements, sources revealed. The seizure of such a huge quantity of explosives, which were suspected to be bound to politically-volatile and Bangladesh-bordering North 24 Parganas and Nadia districts, is definitely a matter of worry, an STF officer said. On the other hand, interrogation into the recovery of the explosives from a warehouse in Saltora during a raid by CID sleuths on March 14 revealed that the explosives were brought from mines in Jharkhand, Odisha and Telangana. The owner of the warehouse is absconding. There is a high probability of these explosives being used to foment trouble in communally-sensitive areas and politically-volatile regions in the western districts of the state during elections, a CID official said. The BJP had performed well in the western districts during the panchayat polls last year and is expected to give a tough fight to the TMC in the region in the Lok Sabha polls. Gelatin seized in Bihar An illegal consignment of explosives 375 kg gelatin and 1,000 detonators was seized from an SUV in Aurangabad district of Bihar on Friday. The SUV, bearing a UP registration number, was carrying the explosives from neighbouring Rohtas district. By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Pakistan has encroached on lands belonging to the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in the name of developing a corridor for the convenience of pilgrims and has objected to most of the Indian proposals for the project, government officials said on Friday. They added that India lambasted Pakistan for its double-speak and strongly protested against the rampant encroachment demanding restoration of these lands to the holy gurdwara urgently, keeping in view the strong sentiments on the issue in India. The officials were part of the Indian delegation, which attended the first India-Pakistan meeting on Thursday to discuss the modalities for the proposed corridor linking Gurdaspur in Punjab with the Sikh shrine in Pakistans Kartarpur. Pakistan has lived up to its old reputation of making false promises, making tall claims and delivering nothing. Its double-speak on the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor was exposed at the first meeting itself at Attari on Thursday, an official said. The encroached lands were donated to the Kartarpur Sahib by devouts such as late Maharaja Ranjeet Singh and others. Lands owned by the gurdwara have been surreptitiously usurped by the government of Pakistan in the name of developing the corridor, the official said. Pakistan wanted to restrict the duration of Kartarpur agreement to just two years, despite India making it clear that it is executing long-lasting and comprehensive facilities at the border by spending Rs 190 crore. Pakistans actual offer has turned out to be farcical and mere tokenism. There is a sea of difference between what Pakistan, including Prime Minister Imran Khan, had announced, and what they offered at the Attari meeting. Clearly, Pakistan is not interested in providing Indian pilgrims easy access to Kartarpur Sahib, another official said. Discord in the open at corridor meet Indian officials, who attended the first meeting on Thursday to discuss the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor, hit out at Pakistan for reneging on its promises and strongly protested against the rampant encroachment of gurdwara land in Kartarpur and demanded restoration of the plots in question at the earliest. ALSO READ | Pakistan response on India's demands on Kartarpur Corridor inadequate: Amarinder Singh By PTI NEW DELHI: India continues to work with the UN Security Council sanctions committee on the listing of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist and will show patience on the issue, official sources said Saturday, days after China blocked a proposal at the world body to ban the JeM chief. They also said steps taken by Pakistan in the last few days, against terror groups are cosmetic in nature. "India continues to work with the UNSC's sanction committee on listing of JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist," official sources said. India believes "terrorism is a major issue for China. They know a number of terror groups are based in Pakistan", sources added. On China blocking Azhar's listing as a global terrorist, sources said India will show patience as long as it takes. ALSO READ | Masood Azhar's assets in France set to be frozen On Beijing continuing to oppose Azhar's listing as global terrorist, government sources said there are issues which China needs to resolve with Pakistan. On Wednesday, China for the fourth time blocked the bid in the UN Security Council to designate the chief of the Pakistan-based terror group as a "global terrorist" by putting a technical hold on the proposal. The Chinese move was termed "disappointing" by India. ALSO READ | Masood Azhar stayed in Delhi hotels, visited Deoband, Lucknow in 1994: Report By PTI CHHINDAWARA: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath Saturday said if party colleague Digvijaya Singh wants to contest upcoming Lok Sabha polls, he should choose the "toughest seat" in the state. While Nath did not mention any seat in particular, he said there were "2-3-4 seats" in MP which the Congress had not won in the past "30-35" years. Singh, a former chief minister and multiple times Lok Sabha MP, is currently a Rajya Sabha member. "I have requested Digvijaya Singh that if he wants to contest Lok Sabha polls, then he should do so from the toughest seat. There are 2-3-4 seats from where we have not won elections since the last 30-35 years," Nath told reporters here. Congress functionaries said he may have been referring to Bhopal and Indore Lok Sabha seats, both of which have been held by the BJP since 1989. Congress sources said Nath is keen that Singh contest from Bhopal. Former President late Shankar Dayal Sharma was the last Congress winner from the seat in the 1984 general elections. Nath, in reply to a query, however, said it was for Singh to decide from where he wants to contest. He also added that the Congress would announce Lok Sabha candidates from the state in the next three-four days. Nath arrived in Chhindwara on a two-day visit to address 11 rallies, with his son Nakul Nath, in all likelihood, being the Congress' Lok Sabha candidate. Nath, who is a nine-time MP from Chhindwara, is fighting an Assembly bypoll from here scheduled for April 23. Nath has to get elected to the MP Assembly in order to continue as chief minister. The Chhindwara Assembly seat was vacated by Dipak Saxena, who had won it in the 2018 state polls, so that Nath could get an entry into the 230-member House. By Online Desk Three Indians, including a Kerala woman, were confirmed killed in the Christchurch terror attacks, where 49 people were shot dead inside two mosques, perpetrated by a white supremacist. Two people from Telangana, including a Hyderabad resident, was confirmed to have been killed in the incident. Tolichowki resident Faraz Ahsan (31) succumbed to his injuries in the hospital, said his family members. Speaking to Express, Faraz's brother Kashif Ahsan said, "We just received word from my sister-in-law that he has passed away." Faraz's relatives are as of now in discussion over whether to visit New Zealand for retrieving his body. Earlier on Saturday, Faraz's wife Isha Aziz, who has been distressed since she learnt that her husband was missing after getting caught in the attack, had said that she had not received any confirmation on the matter then. The other person who passed away is Karimnagar resident Mohammed Imran Khan, who was like the others, attending Friday prayers at Masjid Al Noor in Christchurch when Brenton Tarrant opened fire inside the mosque. According to the ICRC website, Imran had last contacted his wife before leaving for the mosque. A photo, reportedly of Khan, is doing rounds on social media, showing a man in a black T-shirt and trousers covered in blood, slumped unconscious against a man wearing a grey mushroom who is talking on the phone. The Karimnagar resident had moved to New Zealand in 2002 and was running a restaurant in Christchurch. ALSO READ: Two Bangladeshis dead, 5 injured, 3 missing in New Zealand terror attack: Minister He was married to a New Zealand resident who recently gave birth to a son. His uncle Manzoor Ahmed Khan, who owns a marriage hall in Karimnagar, has reportedly left for New Zealand, said a family member. Amberpet resident Ahmed Iqbal Jehangir who was shot in the chest in the shootout underwent a second surgery on Saturday. "He is stable. They have removed the bullet that was lodged in the chest. This surgery is for getting out the one lodged in the collarbone," his brother Khursheed Jehangir told Express, adding that his VISA for New Zealand has been approved. On Friday, AIMIM president appealed to Minister for External Affairs Sushma Swaraj and TRS working president KT Rama Rao to expedite Khursheed's visa. ALSO READ: 'RUN!': New Zealand shooting victims recount horror, mourn the lost Another Telangana man, Kodad resident Mohammed Abdul Aleem, who is also the treasurer of one of the two mosques which were attacked, is safe, said an official of the New Zealand chapter of the Telangana Jagruthi, a state-based NGO headed by Nizamabad MP K Kavitha. Faraz was a father to a three-year-old daughter and a six-month-old son. The third Indian was a Malayalee woman, as confirmed by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in a Facebook post-Saturday. "Death of Anshi Karippakulam (27) has been confirmed and her family has been intimated," a top police official told PTI. Vijayan, in his Facebook post, termed as shocking, the news that a Kodungallur native was among those who were killed in the terror attack in New Zealand. "We have been trying to contact the embassy through Non-Resident Keralites Affairs Department (NORKA-ROOTS) to gather more information. We share the grief of the family," Vijayan said. According to reports, the woman was pursuing her MTech at a university there. Her husband Abdul Nazer hails from Kochi. Television channels also aired a visual of a man purportedly saying he was from Moovattupuzha in the State and that he had a narrow escape. "I had come to the mosque along with a friend. I had a phone call and suddenly heard gunshots and saw a man shooting people and entering the mosque," the man is heard saying in the footage. He also said he and his friend had a "narrow and lucky escape." (With PTI and ENS Inputs) By Online Desk Even in the 21st century, social norms in many parts of the country are dead against love marriages. A recent instance was witnessed in a village in Ludhiana district of Punjab where residents have backed a diktat to boycott couples who elope or marry without the consent of their parents. The diktat was issued at a village meeting held a few days ago in the presence of the sarpanch. The whole proceedings were videographed and have gone viral on social media. The person in the video is seen reading the diktat which says, "A village meeting was held today in which it has been decided that girls and boys in the village who marry within the village or elope without caring for their parents and after marrying return to the village and start living here again this brings a bad name to the entire village and also creates a bad influence on other children in the village. The entire village has decided that girls or boys who take such steps will be socially boycotted and all civic amenities will also be withdrawn," reported the Indian Express. The sarpanch of the village in Jagraon sub-division of Ludhiana defended the decision saying that it was taken after three young girls in the village eloped, adding that two of whom were minors and one got married without her parents' consent. He also said the village atmosphere is getting 'unpleasant' as more youths are having affairs and setting a bad example for others. Although the diktat was approved by the village, it is more of an advisory and no official resolution has been passed. The deputy commissioner of Ludhiana said that if there is any boycott of couples from the village, then the law will take its course, the report added. By PTI NEW DELHI: If Pakistan was sincere in tackling terror, then it should at least hand over to India Dawood Ibrahim, Sayeed Salahudeen and other terrorists who are Indian citizens and residing in that country, government sources said Saturday. They said Pakistan has failed to take any credible action against Jaish-e-Mohammed and other terror groups even after the dastardly Pulwama attack. ALSO READ: Recent India-Pak conflict arose due to terrorists that departed from Pakistan, says Mike Pompeo Referring to actions by Pakistan such as holding ceratin terrorists in preventive custody, the sources said India considered them to be cosmetic. Cosmetic action will not cut any ice. India has been asking Pakistan to hand over Dawood, Salahudeen and several other terrorists who are wanted in India in connection with a series of terror attacks. The sources said India has shared various key details such as coordinates of terror groups operating from Pakistan soil to Islamabad which can be verified by a third country. ALSO READ: Imran Khan says Pakistan will have better ties with India after polls After the Pulwama terror attack, India has mounted a diplomatic offensive to corner Pakistan internationally on the issue of terrorism. India has been pressing for concrete and verifiable action by Pakistan against terror groups operating from Pakistani soil. Tension between the two nuclear-armed neighbours escalated after the February 14 Pulwama terror attack and subsequent aerial strike by India on a training camp of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Balakot on February 26. Pakistan retaliated the strike next day by unsuccessfully attempting to target Indian military installations. The JeM claimed responsibility for the Pulwama attack. By PTI LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Saturday said Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's entry into politics will make "no difference" to the BJP's Lok Sabha poll prospects in the state and dismissed the SP-BSP alliance as "false alarm". "The Congress has made her (Priyanka) its general secretary (in-charge of eastern UP) this time." FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE It is an internal matter of that party. "Earlier too she had campaigned for the Congress. This time also it will make no difference (to the BJP)," he said. Adityanath also claimed that the "fledgling" SP-BSP alliance is already "embroiled in dispute". ALSO READ: One failed, the other won't take-off: Jaitley's jibe on Priyanka Gandhi's political plunge "The newfound alliance is already embroiled in dispute. It (alliance) is nothing but a 'hauaa' (false alarm)," he said in his first interview after the Lok Sabha poll schedule was announced Sunday. Priyanka Gandhi, who is considered as second most important face in Congress after her brother and party President Rahul Gandhi, will be back to her steamer ride from Rampur ghat in Bhadohi. From there, she will also visit Vindhyachal temple in Mirzapur and meet the carpet weavers before a night halt there. ALSO READ: Priyanka Gandhi likely to be in Lucknow on Sunday, to launch party's poll campaign Priyanka's journey will commence from Prayagraj on Monday and conclude at Varanasi's Assi Ghat and Dashashwamedh ghat on Wednesday evening. She will take the steamer ride from Chhatnag in Prayagraj on March 18 and en route meet elderly citizens of Dumduma in Prayagraj and the family members of Mahesh Raj Yadav, who was killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on February 14 in a suicide bombing. By Express News Service SRI NAGAR: Three shooting incidents have been reported over the past two days in militancy-hit south Kashmir in which, a civilian and an army deserter were killed and a National Conference (NC) leader was injured. The attacks come in the backdrop of heightened security in the state after the Pulwama attack and the announcement of the elections. A police official said militants abducted 40-year-old civilian Manzoor Ahmad Lone from his home in Dogripora village, Awantipora in Pulwama district on Thursday. He said militants killed him and dumped the body in an adjoining village. Police has taken up the investigation and a manhunt has been launched to track down the assailants, the police official said. Earlier, on Thursday afternoon, militants shot at and injured National Conference block president Mohammad Ismail Wani outside his home at Bijbheara in south Kashmirs Anantnag district. The NC leader was hit in the abdomen and is undergoing treatment at the SMHS hospital in Srinagar. On Wednesday, militants killed 37-year-old youth Showkat Ahmad Naik outside his home at Pinglina village in Pulwama district. Naik had joined the Army but deserted during training in September last year. No militant group has claimed responsibility for the killings. By Online Desk JNU student activist Umar Khalid's father Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas will be contesting the Lok Sabha polls in West Bengal on a Welfare Party of India ticket. Ilyas, who cited concerns over the "worsening" condition of voters, will contest from Murshidabad's Jangipur seat, earlier held by former President Pranab Mukherjee's son Abhijit, The Hindu reported. As per the 2011 census, Muslims make up to 61.79 per cent of the constituency's population. "Seven to eight lakh people migrated to Kolkata from this area and there are very little employment opportunities despite the fact that Jangipur produces good quality jute or mango. But those cant be processed locally and they had to go to Kolkata. Im highlighting such issues in my campaign, Ilyas told Hindu. Although the TMC, Congress, CPM and BJP are also expected to enter the fray, Ilyas seemed confident that the Welfare Party of India will not split the Muslim votes, making it easy for the BJP to make its way into the district. It will be either us or any one of the local Bengal parties, he said. By PTI NEW DELHI: The United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) has adopted two resolutions piloted by India on single-use plastics and sustainable nitrogen management. According to a statement released by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC), the resolutions were adopted at the fourth session of UNEA which was held in Nairobi from March 11 to 15 on 'Innovative Solutions for Environmental Challenges and Sustainable Production and Consumption'. "The global nitrogen use efficiency is low, resulting in pollution by reactive nitrogen which threatens human health and ecosystem services, and contributes to climate change and stratospheric ozone depletion," a ministry official said. "Only a small proportion of plastics produced globally is recycled with most of it damaging the environment and aquatic biodiversity. Both these are global challenges and the resolutions piloted by India at the UNEA are vital first steps towards addressing these issues and attracting focus of the global community," he said. India also hosted, in the High-Level Segment of UNEA, a session on 'Global Partnerships: Key to Unlocking Resource Efficiency and Inclusive Green Economies' which was attended by representatives of member states, civil society organizations, private sector bodies, leading financial institutions and countries like Germany, Brazil and South Africa. The Indian delegation also participated in the panel discussion on 'Need for Additional Commitments of Public Finance and ways to Maximize Mobilization of Climate Finance', the statement said. "It was highlighted that climate finance is an important lever for climate action related to both mitigation and adaption in developing countries. The contributions to climate finance need to be in consonance with the basic principles of common but differentiated responsibility and respective capabilities (CBDR-RC). "Climate finance is more of an obligation of the developed countries based on their historical emissions. The availability of sufficient, additional and predictable climate finance is a key for action. India has been initiating domestic climate actions, both related to climate change mitigation and adaptation, primarily through its own financial resources. There is a sense of urgency for financial support to developing countries, which have not been so responsible for these global environmental concerns," the statement added. K Jayakumar By The manner in which India conducts elections is globally acclaimed. Once the poll dates are announced the model code of conduct comes into action. The model code is nothing but crystallized dos and donts for the political parties and candidates and its underlying wisdom is the democratic values of the Constitution. The credibility of the electoral process would be compromised in the absence of such rigorous code of conduct. Admittedly, elections deciding the destiny of the nation for at least five years have to necessarily take place in an atmosphere of peace, equality and fairness. It is customary for the media to show the privileged ministers and political leaders standing in the queue at the polling stations, literally rubbing shoulders with the poor and the less privileged citizens, who are subsumed in the simple and resounding phrase, We, the People of India. They of course are used to standing in long queues! The sense of equality of all, literally felt during an election, somehow has not been internalized in our body polity. Once elections are over and the mantle of state authority falls on the winners, the ethos of equality lapses into an abstraction. While the Constitutional values are visibly operative as during the polls, the citizens, no doubt, feel important and empowered. They become aware of their promised dignity, rights and guaranteed equality. The model code reiterates these fundamental values and offers to penalise those who violate them. Beyond the polls, the onus of sustaining these very values in our polity is on the elected government of the day. However, the Constitutional promises of equality, freedom and dignity remain elusive for the majority of ordinary citizens. Unless these values become a reality for all, democracy will remain an unfinished project. The litmus test of democracy is the sense of freedom, equality and human dignity. The apathy and unfairness of administrative systems, corruption, arrogance and indifference of the ruling class, the several draconian legislations that deny justice to the citizens are all contrary to the promise of equality and freedom, hailed and practiced during elections. Recently the Official Secrets Act was in the news. Voices that seek to either scrap this century-old law or at least harmonise it with the values of democracy and modern technological realities are not even a whimper in our national debates. It can always be claimed that we have enacted the Right to Information Act. However, experience has shown that governments are more comfortable holding back information than sharing it. A casual reading of any communication received from a government office will vouch this. The information offered under the Right to Information Act is often thrifty and conceals more than what it reveals. The Right to Service Act which seeks to guarantee the citizens, services notified has been half-heartedly implemented or shelved by several state governments. (Karnataka seems to have taken it up seriously.) We have witnessed time and again how the magic wand of state power transforms the VVIP who once stood in the queue on the polling day into an exclusive incarnation cordoned away by the security personnel. The dominant view is that the freedom and rights of the ordinary citizen can wait for this cavalcade to pass. This is almost a fait accompli and we the people are used to it. It would appear that Indian democracy places a higher value on the privileges of the government and its functionaries than the rights of the governed. Once such an idiom is accepted without demur, it becomes easy to enact stringent laws and justify them. Human rights and activism become suspects. Then talking truth to power becomes dangerous. Voicing concern over human rights violations and anxiety over environmental devastation are no longer looked upon as necessary alerts. Constitutional rights highlighted and enforced during the electoral process are not special privileges available to the citizen only during elections. They are only specially flagged by the model code to facilitate free and fair election. It does not imply that once the model code ceases to be operational, the fundamental rights which have enlivened it cease to be relevant. Sadly enough, in the larger canvas of governance, freedom and equality get routinely compromised without being questioned, except in individual instances when the matter is brought before a court. True, the Constitution gives power to the executive to impose reasonable restrictions on these rights in the larger public interest. We have seen that larger public interest has been defined variously, ranging from political convenience and calculation of the ruling party, VVIP security, terror threat, national security, law and order, resource crunch, administrative exigency and several such alibis. Regardless of the special laws enacted from time to time to safeguard the vulnerable sections of the population, sluggish and mechanical implementation often thwarts the very rights they seek to protect. That such apathy is nothing but an abject denial of the Constitutional rights and entitlements of the citizens is hardly ever appreciated in bureaucratic or political discourse. Even as the model code of conduct regulates the performance during polls, there needs to be a stricter model code of governance for the elected. That model code of performance and accountability should have the values of democratic freedom, equality and dignity of the citizen as its inner core. India saw UNSC resolution 1267 going down the tube, vetoed by the Chinese on dubious technical grounds, but it won some good brownie points. For one, the move to proscribe Masood Azhar as a global terrorist was a collective initiative. France moved it, along with the US and UK, and it is now going ahead with steps to freeze the Jaish-e-Mohammed chiefs assets in France. (Its indeed a chilling revelation that the Jaish chief has a global footprint, much beyond the backyards of Bahawalpur.) No less than 10 non-permanent UNSC members co-sponsored the resolution, so Chinas position stood out as unpopular. Indeed, even in parts of Islamabad, Pakistan PM Imran Khans rivals, as also the civil society, have attacked him for protecting a terrorist while jailing political opponents. If reports based on background briefings at the UN are anything to go by, while India was not exactly surprised with the fourth Chinese veto, though it hoped for better sense to prevail, Islamabad may have been. Why did Beijing go out of its way to secure a dubious strategic asset of the Pakistani deep state, risking its own reputation? Unless it suits Beijing to keep India on the boil. Still, its India that secured a moral advantage: It won the perception battle on the international stage. No one doubts that Pakistan harbours the Jaish chief, and provides logistical support to his terror infrastructure within its territory. India had presented a watertight case. Even the resolution is not really dead. There are reasons, however, why a proscription would be a largely symbolic thing. Yes, the utility value of such symbolism would have been high in this election season. But nothing concrete will change unless Islamabad is actually forced (or convinced) to stop its proxy war through terrorism and indoctrinated youth. After all, Lashkar-e-Taiba bossman Hafiz Saeed roams free, spreading venom against India, despite a UN blacklisting. By Express News Service KURNOOL: Tension prevailed in Khaggal village after TDP's Mantralayam candidate Thikka Reddy was injured after a scuffle with a YSRC MLA. As part of his poll campaign, Thikka Reddy along with his followers visited Khaggal village on Saturday and hoisted the party flag. At the same time, followers of YSRC MLA Y Bala Nagi Reddy led by his nephew Pradeep Reddy rushed there objecting to TDP's election campaign. Khaggal and another 15 villages in Mantralayam have always remained loyal to Bala Nagi Reddy. Thikka Reddy's men reportedly made provocative comments against Bala Nagi Reddy and his men. Both the groups confronted one another and a heated verbal exchange took place, which escalated to a fistfight. With the situation slipping out of hand, one of Thikka Reddy's gunmen opened fire to disperse the mob. However, in the melee, he was jostled and the bullet accidentally hit Thikka Reddy and Madhavaram ASI Venugopal in their legs. (Photo | EPS) The injured TDP candidate was rushed to the government hospital in Yemmiganur while ASI Venugopal was taken to a hospital in Adoni. Later, they both were shifted to Government Hospital in Kurnool for better treatment. Meanwhile, additional forces were rushed to Khaggal to control the situation and prevent any untoward incidents. By Express News Service Two Maoists were killed and one jawan was hurt in an exchange of fire between CRPF and banned Maoists at P Kondapalli village of Pedabayalu mandal in Visakhapatnam district early Saturday morning. A team of CRPF jawans belonging to 198 Battalion, deployed for the upcoming elections, were combing through the forest area near Pedabayalu mandal. They came across a group of Maoists, who upon seeing the CRPF personnel, opened fire. CRPF personnel opened fire in retaliation in which two Maoists were killed, while the other ultras escaped under the cover darkness. The injured CRPF personnel was shifted to a government hospital in Visakhapatnam for treatment. Combing operations have been intensified. By Express News Service The ruling LDF, which emerged victorious in the Thrissur Lok Sabha seat in the 2014 elections, has got a head start in the constituency having already announced CPIs Rajaji Mathew Thomas as its candidate. Rajaji Thomas, who had earlier represented Ollur in the state Assembly, is a familiar face on the socio-political firmament here. He has also been editor of he party mouthpiece Janayugam. Here, Rajaji Thomas exudes confidence on his victory prospects in a freewheeling chat with Express Staff Correspondent Gopika Varrier. Excerpts: Q. Thrissur has always been regarded as a traditional Congress stronghold. However, it is a different story when it comes to the LS poll. Will the CPI be able to repeat its 2014 success in Thrissur? A. Now, let me put this in proper perspective: Thrissur has never been a Congress citadel as made out by some sections. In the past several elections, right from KK Warrier and V V Raghavan to sitting MP C N Jayadevan, LDF candidates, especially those representing the CPI, have always had an upper hand. Even the electoral arithmetic favours the CPI and we are hopeful of retaining the Thrissur LS seat this time. Seven Assembly segments in the Thrissur LS seat stood with the LDF in the 2014 polls. Besides, majority of the local self-government bodies in the Parliament constituency are under LDF rule. This will definitely impact the outcome. Q. The name of Tom Vadakkan, who crossed over to the BJP from the Congress quite recently, has been doing the rounds as the NDAs likely candidate in Thrissur. Your thoughts on Vadakkan switching sides and his winnability, if indeed he is fielded from Thrissur? A. The LDF went ahead and finalised its candidates and for us it hardly matters who the political opponents are. In the Thrissur LS seat, the LDF clearly has the upper hand. Tom Vadakkans switch to the BJP is not all surprising since Congressmen always go after power and money. But Vadakkans exit should provide food for thought to the Congress leadership. The BJP too is no dfferent in this regard. Also, there is not much difference between the BJP and the Congress on the Hindutva issue. While the BJP follows hardline Hindutva, Congress pursues a moderate Hindutva. Q. Is Sabarimala issue likely to weigh in on the voters? A. Attempts are being made to whip up Hindu sentiments through Sabarimala issue. However, the Sabarimala issue will not have an electoral fallout, as per our assessment. Q. The NH development and the lag in completing work on the Mannuthy-Vadakkenchery stretch is a major issue plaguing voters here. Your prescription for this? A. Both the Congress and the BJP are responsible for the present condition of National Highways Mannuthy-Vadakkenchery stretch. Its pointless to pass the buck to sitting MP C N Jayadevan or the state government on this count. Though the Kerala MPs, including C N Jayadevan, repeatedly brought the issue to attention of Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, who even allocated Rs 35,000 crore for the project, nothing came out of it since the contractors lobby calls the shots. Unfortunately, Gadkari is the leader of this lobby and the common people are suffering. Q. If indeed you are to emerge victorious from the Thrissur seat, what all factors are likely to contribute to your victory? A. It is definitely the national-level emotions. The Narendra Modi-led BJP-NDA Government at the Centre was fascist and a mere one per cent of the population benefited from its policies. It was a government for the corporates and by the corporates. They even hijacked the democratic institutions of the country. The BJP- NDA continues in power having garnered just 33 per cent of the votes, thanks to he democratic system. In such a scenario, the people in Kerala realise only the LDF and the Left bloc can provide the real alternative. Q. C N Jayadevan, the sitting MP from Thrissur, was the lone CPI member in the outgoing Lok Sabha. With the party opting to field you this time, how do you rate your chances at the hustings? A. The CPI is upbeat on putting on a much better showing in the coming LS polls. And we expect all the four candidates fielded by the party in Kerala to come up trumps, besides the CPI contenders fighting Parliament polls from Tamil Nadu, Bihar and Odisha to emerge victorious since the public has reposed its faith in the Left parties. Shiva Prasad Dora By Express News Service RAYAGADA: This student chose a career based on her skill and not on formal education. Padi Mamita, a 15-year-old tribal girl from Kotturu village, passed her Class X exam with D grade. But she did not let her grade deter her from making a mark on her own. She chose to give wings to her love for welding, generally considered a mans domain, and enrolled herself in Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Rayagada to get training in welding. Willing to walk the extra mile, Mamitas hard work and perseverance got her selected in the National Welding League for Women Students 2019, organised recently by AICTE, IIW India and a private technical institution of Bhubaneswar. Mamita topped the list in the league and also got a cash award of `20,000 along with a medal and certificate proving her mettle. Despite being the daughter of a poor farmer, she said she was hopeful of reaching the pinnacle of success in field of welding. Tribal girls in the district get married at an early age and remain confined to household chores. I choose to break that glass ceiling, she said. When asked what prompted her to choose this field, she recounted her childhood experience when she was captivated by the sparks from a welding workshop on her way to school. Those sparks kindled my interest in the field, she said. Mamita came out with flying colours in Manual Metal Arc Welding (MMAW) and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) from a pool of 160 female participants from across the country. Principal, ITI Rayagada Atulya Kumar Panda said the Odisha Skill Development Authority played a key role in harnessing the skills of ITI trainees. A technical team of Odisha Skill Development Authority, led by Subroto Bagchi, will visit the institution to devise a plan for her career progress in the welding industry. By Express News Service MADURAI: After 15 years, CPM will contest from Madurai Lok Sabha constituency under the Secular Progressive Alliance. The Left party has announced renowned writer and party worker Su Venkatesan as its candidate. On Friday, within hours of DMK announcing the allocation of Madurai constituency to CPM, partys State Polit Bureau announced Su Venkatesan as its candidate. Venkatesan, a Sahitya Akademi awardee, and also the president of the Tamil Nadu Progressive Writerss Association, has been a fulltime CPM worker for the past 28 years. Venkatesan, a BCom graduate from Harvipatti in Tiruparankundram, contested in the 2006 Assembly elections from Tiruparankundram constituency and lost to AIADMK cadre A K Bose by 12,686 votes. Speaking to Express, Venkatesan said, Madurai is an international heritage city, but deserted by the Union government. There has been no special scheme for its development. Pointing out that there was not even a single Central government higher educational institution in Madurai, Venkatesan said that his focus will be on issues like drinking water. He also said that he will make efforts to turn Madurai into a Metro city. Secretary of DMK IT wing and MLA of Madurai Central PTR Palanivel Thiagarajan said that DMK will support Venkatesan and its district and State-level leaders will accompany him during the campaign. By Express News Service CHENNAI : Modifying its earlier order, the Madras High Court on Friday permitted motor vessels Tug Mutha Gem and Barge Mutha Pearl of Singapore, which are lying at Udangudi project at Kallamozhi coastal village in Thoothukudi, to sail away, as the owners had deposited Rs 35.45 lakh, equivalent to 69,000 Singapore Dollars, to the credit of the case. Justice S Vaidyanathan showed the green signal while passing orders on an application arising out of a civil suit from Raja Pushpam and her husband John Raj of Keelasadayanmankulam in Tirunelveli district. According to plaintiffs, their son Sam David Raja (21) was employed as an Able Seaman in the ships and he died in an unforeseen circumstance while on duty on September 30, 2018. As per clause 17(c) of the Seafarers Employment Contract dated August 19, 2018, the laws of the Republic of Singapore would come into play, they said and demanded a compensation of `50 lakh. The judge on March 11 last ordered the arrest of the ships until they remitted `50 lakh to the credit of the suit. When the matter was taken up, counsel for the vessels clarified that the currency in question should be in Singapore dollars and not US dollars. Accordingly, they deposited `35.45 lakh, equivalent to 69,000 Singapore dollars. By PTI CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu Congress unit on Saturday urged its national president Rahul Gandhi to contest from the southern state for the April 18 Lok Sabha elections, saying he was first proposed as the next prime minister from here by the DMK. TNCC president K S Alagiri said besides contesting from Amethi in Uttar Pradesh, Gandhi should also select a seat from Tamil Nadu as he cannot be perceived as belonging to just the northern state, but "is seen as an asset of the people of India". FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE Referring to DMK president M K Stalin first proposing Gandhi's name as the next prime minister in the event of the opposition winning the Lok Sabha polls, Alagiri said the secular alliance cobbled up by the DMK leader had the full support of the people. "In this backdrop, on behalf of the state Congress unit and the people, I request Mr Rahul Gandhi to contest from any one of the Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu. I am sure the (DMK-led) Secular Progressive Alliance will extend grand support to this plea," Alagiri said in a statement. He said Gandhi was "acceptable" by people as a leader beyond religion and caste and therefore, cannot be considered as "belonging only to Uttar Pradesh". "He is considered as an asset of the people of India. He enjoys the goodwill of all and has dedicated himself to the cause of unity. While contesting from Amethi in Uttar Pradesh in north, he should also contest from any one of the seats in Tamil Nadu, which is the southern part of the country," he said. Alagiri expressed confidence Gandhi will heed to the plea of the people of the state and select a constituency from Tamil Nadu for himself. By doing so, Gandhi will be seen as a leader "connecting the north and south," and receive grand public support, Alagiri added. The TNCC leader also flayed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for "failing" to keep up his promises on issues, including retrieving black money from foreign havens and doubling farmers' income, and dubbed the AIADMK-led NDA coalition in the state, which includes the BJP, as "opportunistic". Aihik Sur By Express News Service HYDERABAD: Its an unbearably hot March afternoon, the blistering heat forcing the people to desert the streets and take shelter in the cool confines of their dwellings. But at Darussalam, the fortified headquarters of All India Majilis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen in North Goshamahal, the scene is different. Despite the rising mercury, hundreds gather in an orderly manner to meet their leader Asaduddin Owaisi and to pour out their grievances. The AIMIM chief, dressed in a spotless grey sherwani and wearing an olive taqiyah, lends ear to a soft-spoken elderly woman. After a brief chat, he asks a party member to dial a number and speaks to an official. Then he tells the woman, Amma, please meet the official next week. Your problem will be solved. This attitude, the party cadre and his followers believe, will ensure that Owaisi will once again win the Lok Sabha elections from the Hyderabad constituency. The other undeniable fact, again according to his followers, is that there is no strong opponent to defeat the 49-year-old MP in the constituency. Owaisi is optimistic, or rather confident, of fourth consecutive victory from the seat, previously held by his father late Sultan Salahuddin Owaisi until 2004. Since the first time he contested, Owaisi has been winning elections with a comfortable margin. His biggest margin was in the 2014 general elections, when he defeated BJPs Bhagavanth Rao by a mammoth two-lakh margin. Owaisis political battle is not limited to the public arena, but transcends into his personal life, as he has a battle of his own against his father, who had groomed him during his formative years. One day, my father should be known by my name. People still refer to me as Salahuddins son. It is because of the love and affection that people have for him, but it affects my ego, Owaisi had said in an interview to a news channel recently. When it comes to popularity, hogging media space or even national appeal, however, Asaduddin is already miles ahead of his father. Apart from being a regular in news channels, Owaisi has realised the potential of social media. He is one of the few politicians who handles their Twitter accounts themselves, and do not rely on social media managers. His speeches have also garnered him followers among his critics. Case in point, his terming Jaish-e-Mohammed as shayateen found praises among a right-wing community that usually doesnt spare him for his political stand. By Associated Press NEW YORK: President Donald Trump played down any threat posed by racist white nationalism on Friday after the gunman accused of the New Zealand mosque massacre called the president "a symbol of renewed white identity." Trump, whose own previous responses to the movement have drawn scrutiny, expressed sympathy for the victims who died at "places of worship turned into scenes of evil killing." But he declined to join expressions of mounting concern about white nationalism, saying "I don't, really" when asked whether he thought it was a rising threat around the world. "I think it's a small group of people that have very, very serious problems, I guess," Trump said. "If you look at what happened in New Zealand, perhaps that's the case. I don't know enough about it yet. But it's certainly a terrible thing." Trump was asked about white nationalism and the shooting deaths of 49 people at mosques in Christchurch after he formally vetoed Congress' resolution to block his declaration of a national emergency at the Mexico border. His veto, aimed at freeing money to build more miles of a border wall against illegal immigration, is expected to survive any congressional effort to overturn it. Questioned about the accused gunman's reference to him, Trump professed ignorance. "I didn't see it. I didn't see it," he said. "But I think it's a horrible event ... a horrible, disgraceful thing and a horrible act." READ HERE | New Zealand mosque shooter saw victims as 'invaders who would replace the white race' The man accused of the shootings, whose name was not immediately released, left behind a lengthy document that outlined his motivations. He proudly stated that he was a 28-year-old Australian white nationalist who hates immigrants and was set off by attacks in Europe that were perpetrated by Muslims. In a single reference, he mentioned the U.S. president. "Were/are you a supporter of Donald Trump?" was one of the questions he posed to himself. His answer: "As a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose? Sure. As a policy maker and leader? Dear god no." The White House immediately denounced the connection. But the mention from the suspect, who embraced Nazi imagery and voiced support for fascism, nonetheless cast an uncomfortable light on the way that the president has been embraced by some on the far right. Trump, who as a candidate proposed a ban on all Muslims entering the United States, has drawn criticism as being slow to condemn white supremacy and related violence. After a 2017 clash between white nationalists and anti-racist protesters in Charlottesville, Virginia, that left one demonstrator dead, Trump said there were "very fine people on both sides" of the confrontation. He also did not immediately reject the support of David Duke, a former KKK Grand Wizard, during his presidential campaign. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., tied Trump's inflammatory language to the violence half a world away. "Words have consequences like saying we have an invasion on our border and talking about people as though they were different in some fatal way," Blumenthal said on CNN. "I think that the public discourse from the president on down is a factor in some of these actions." READ HERE | Victims were shot until their death: Survivors recall chilling stories Former Texas Rep. Beto O'Rourke, who declared his Democratic candidacy for president this week, said, "We must call out this hatred, this Islamophobia, this intolerance, and the violence that predictably follows from the rhetoric that we use." The White House, in comments before those remarks, rejected any link to Trump. "It's outrageous to even make that connection between this deranged individual that committed this evil crime to the president who has repeatedly condemned bigotry, racism and made it very clear that this is a terrorist attack," Mercedes Schlapp, the White House's director of strategic communication, told reporters. "We are there to support and stand with the people of New Zealand." Trump himself telephoned New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, offering condolences, prayers and any help the U.S. might be able to provide. She told reporters she answered, "My message was: to offer sympathy and love to all Muslim communities." Trump's hardline immigration rhetoric and calls to return America to its traditional past have been embraced by many on the conservative fringes, including some who troll online with racist imagery, as well as white supremacists who have looked to engage in violence. In Florida, Cesar Sayoc, who had decorated his van with Trump propaganda, was accused of mailing explosives last fall to Democratic Party officials and media members, many of whom had been criticized by the president. The president said Sayoc had been "insane" long before he became a Trump fan. ALSO READ | Live streaming, dark web chatrooms: New Zealand shooter's attack steeped in underground internet culture Last month, a former Coast Guard official was accused of stockpiling weapons in a plot to kill media members and liberal politicians as part of a plan to transform the U.S. into a white ethno-state. It took more than a week for Trump to respond to the plot, which he deemed "a shame." Many experts who track violent extremists have identified white nationalism as a growing threat in the U.S. and abroad. In January, for example, the New York-based Anti-Defamation League said that domestic extremists killed at least 50 people in the U.S. in 2018, up from 37 in 2017, and said, "White supremacists were responsible for the great majority of the killings, which is typically the case." Some critics have accused U.S. authorities of not dedicating adequate resources to stem a threat of domestic terrorism. However, The Washington Post reported last week that internal FBI data showed more domestic terror suspects were arrested last year than those allegedly inspired by international terror groups. By AFP SYNDEY: Australia has denied a visa to right-wing provocateur Milo Yiannopoulos after he responded to the mosque massacre in New Zealand by branding Islam "barbaric" and "alien", officials said Saturday. "Milo Yiannopoulos will not be allowed to enter Australia for his proposed tour this year," Immigration Minister David Coleman said in a statement. "Mr Yiannopoulos' comments on social media regarding the Christchurch terror attack are appalling and foment hatred and division," he said. Australian media has reported that the government of Prime Minister Scott Morrison already decided in March not to grant a visa to Yiannopoulos, but then changed its position after protests from conservatives in the ruling Liberal Party. ALSO READ | Defiant shooter charged with murder, flashes white power gesture in court The government normally declines to comment on individual visa decisions, but made an exception Saturday in light of the global outrage over the killing of 49 Muslims in New Zealand by an Australian-born right-wing extremist. The move came after Yiannopoulos posted comments on Facebook that said attacks like the New Zealand massacre happen because governments "mollycoddle ... barbaric, alien religious cultures." Cameron countered that the "terrorist attack in Christchurch was carried out on Muslims peacefully practising their religion." "It was an act of pure evil," he said. By PTI ADDIS ABABA: Identifying the remains of the 157 people killed in an Ethiopian Airlines plane crash may take up to six months, the airline said in a document on Saturday. Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 plummeted into a field minutes after taking off from Addis Ababa bound for Nairobi last Sunday, killing all on board. The disaster led to the worldwide grounding of the Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, the plane that crashed. Witnesses said the plane nose-dived into remote farmland southeast of the Ethiopian capital, reducing the plane to small pieces of debris buried deep in the earth. People of 35 nationalities were killed in the crash. ALSO READ | Paris investigators start studying Ethiopian jet's recorder In a document distributed by the airline to family members who lost loved ones in the crash, Ethiopian Airlines laid out a timetable for the return of victims' belongings and the distribution of death certificates. "DNA result will be announced approximately between 5 to 6 months from the date the sample is collected," read the document. Relatives of the victims could submit DNA samples in Addis Ababa or at Ethiopian Airlines offices worldwide, it added. The document was shared with AFP by a relative of a victim, who asked not to be named. The person said that under the victim's Jewish faith, no funeral could be held until his remains were returned, and the six-month delay was stressing the victim's family. "They are in immense pressure and remorse as it is, without waiting half a year," the relative said. The crash of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 was the second deadly incidence for the 737 MAX 8 following the October crash of an Indonesian Lion Air jet that killed all 189 passengers and crew. The Boeing 737 MAX 8 is a brand-new jet. The crash of two of them in the space of just a few months, coupled with similarities in the circumstances, led countries and airlines around the world to ground the plane. The Ethiopian plane's voice and flight data recorders are in Paris, where French, Ethiopian and American investigators will try to determine what went wrong. By Associated Press CHRISTCHURCH: New Zealand's stricken residents reached out to Muslims in their neighborhoods and around the country on Saturday, in a fierce determination to show kindness to a community in pain as a 28-year-old white supremacist stood silently before a judge, accused in mass shootings at two mosques that left 49 people dead. Brenton Harrison Tarrant appeared in court amid strict security, shackled and wearing all-white prison garb, and showed no emotion when the judge read him one murder charge. The judge said "it was reasonable to assume" more such charges would follow. Tarrant, who posted an anti-immigrant manifesto online and apparently used a helmet-mounted camera to broadcast live video of the slaughter, appeared to make a hand sign, similar to an OK sign, that is sometimes associated with white nationalists. The massacre during Friday prayers prompted a heartfelt response from Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who pronounced it "one of New Zealand's darkest days" and said the shooter, an Australian native, has chosen to strike in New Zealand "because we represent diversity, kindness, compassion." Her fellow countrymen seemed to want to prove her right by volunteering acts of kindness. Some offered rides to the grocery store or volunteered to walk with their Muslim neighbors if they felt unsafe. In other online forums, people discussed Muslim food restrictions as they prepared to drop off meals for those affected. "Love always wins over hate. Lots of love for our Muslim brothers" read a handwritten card on a wall of flowers in a historic part of the city that stretched a full block. Still, Muslims were advised to stay away from mosques while the nation's security alert remained at the second-highest level a day after the deadliest shooting in modern New Zealand history. READ HERE | Defiant shooter charged with murder, flashes white power gesture in court Tarrant posted a jumbled, 74-page manifesto on social media in which he identified himself as an Australian and white supremacist who was out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims. The gunman livestreamed 17 minutes of his rampage at Al Noor Mosque, where, armed with at least two assault rifles and a shotgun, he sprayed worshippers with bullets, killing at least 41 people. Several more people were killed in an attack on a second mosque a short time later. At the first, Al Noor mosque, witness Len Peneha said he saw a man dressed in black and wearing a helmet with some kind of device on top believed to have been a camera enter the house of worship and then heard dozens of shots, followed by people running out in terror. Peneha, who lives next door, said the gunman ran out of the mosque, dropped what appeared to be a semi-automatic weapon in his driveway and fled. Peneha went into the mosque to help the victims. "I saw dead people everywhere. There were three in the hallway, at the door leading into the mosque, and people inside the mosque," he said. "I don't understand how anyone could do this to these people, to anyone. It's ridiculous." Facebook, Twitter and Google scrambled to take down the gunman's video, which was widely available on social media for hours after the bloodbath. READ HERE | New Zealand mosque shooter saw victims as 'invaders who would replace the white race' The second attack took place at the Linwood mosque about 5 kilometers (3 miles) away. Mark Nichols told the New Zealand Herald that he heard about five gunshots and that a worshipper returned fire with a rifle or shotgun. The footage showed the killer was carrying a shotgun and two fully automatic military assault rifles, with an extra magazine taped to one of the weapons so that he could reload quickly. He also had more assault weapons in the trunk of his car, along with what appeared to be explosives. Two other armed suspects were taken into custody Friday while police tried to determine what role, if any, they played in the cold-blooded attack that stunned New Zealand, a country so peaceful that police officers rarely carry guns. Tarrant's relatives in the Australian town of Grafton, in New South Wales, contacted police after learning of the shooting and were helping with the investigation, local authorities said. Tarrant has spent little time in Australia in the past four years and only had minor traffic infractions on his record. Police Commissioner Mike Bush confirmed Tarrant was involved in both shootings but stopped short of saying he was the sole gunman. During the Saturday morning hearing, a man who was not in court was charged with using writings to incite hatred against a race or ethnicity, but it was not clear if his case was related to the mosque attacks. "We appear to primarily dealing with one primary perpetrator, but we want to make sure that we don't take anything for granted in ensuring New Zealanders' safety," Ardern said. New Zealand, with a population of 5 million, has relatively loose gun laws and an estimated 1.5 million firearms, or roughly one for every three people. But it has one of the lowest gun homicide rates in the world. In 2015, it had just eight gun homicides. READ HERE | Stand united against anti-Muslim hatred, urges UN chief after New Zealand mosque terror attack Ardern said Tarrant was a licensed gun owner who bought the five guns used in the crimes legally. "I can tell you one thing right now, our gun laws will change," Ardern said. She did not offer too much detail, but said a ban on semi-automatic weapons would be looked at. Neighboring Australia has virtually banned semi-automatic rifles from private ownership since a lone gunman killed 35 people with assault rifles in 1996. Before Friday's attack, New Zealand's deadliest shooting in modern history took place in 1990 in the small town of Aramoana, where a gunman killed 13 people following a dispute with a neighbor. The prime minister said 39 survivors remained in hospital on Saturday with 11 critically wounded. But updates were slow to come by on Saturday, and many were still waiting for news of their missing loved ones. Outside one of the two mosques, 32-year-old Ash Mohammed pushed through police barricades in hopes of finding out what happened to his father and two brothers, whose cellphones rang unanswered. An officer stopped him. "We just want to know if they are dead or alive," Mohammed told the officer. Hungry for any news, families and friends of the victims gathered at the city's Hagley College, near the hospital. ALSO READ | Live streaming, dark web chatrooms: Shooter's attack steeped in underground internet culture They included Asif Shaikh, 44, who said he said he was among more than 100 people at the Al Noor mosque when the attacker came in. He said he survived by played dead, but was desperate to know what happened to his friends who were there with him. "It's been 36 hours, I haven't heard anything about them," he said. Nearby, Akhtar Khokhur leaned on the shoulders of her friend and cried as she held up her cellphone with an image of her husband. "I still don't know where he is," she said. Khokhur, 58, and husband Mehaboobbhai Khokhur, 65, had traveled from India to spend time with their son Imran, their first visit in the eight years since he moved to New Zealand. The couple was due to fly out Sunday. Imran had dropped off his father, an electrical engineer, at the Al Noor mosque on Friday and was looking for a parking space when the shooting began. They have not heard from him since. By Associated Press SAN FRANCISCO: The suspected New Zealand shooter carefully modeled his attack for an internet age. He live-streamed the massacre, shouted out a popular meme slogan and published a long, rambling manifesto replete with inside jokes geared for those steeped in underground internet culture. All that makes Brenton Harrison Tarrant, the man charged with murder for the attack Friday on mosques in Christchurch, the latest person to allegedly commit mass slaughter alongside a targeted appeal to online communities that breed extremism. Prior to killing six people in Isla Vista, California, in 2014, Elliott Rodger posted an online video and circulated a lengthy document full of grievances. He was later found to have ties to a misogynistic online group known as "incels," or "involuntary celibates," who sometimes call for violence against women. Last year, Robert Bowers, the man charged with killing 11 people at a Pittsburgh synagogue, posted threats on Gab, a social media site popular with white supremacists. Recruitment with and proliferation of extremist ideals is nothing new in person or online. People who want to discuss such ideas are bound to find each other, said Daniel Byman, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institute. But whereas small groups might have once met up in real life, now people can go online and find large groups to reinforce and encourage their ideas almost instantly. People do things online that they might be hesitant to do in real life, Byman said. That can range from harmless acts, such as emailing someone you would be too intimidated to approach at a party, to sharing, building on and encouraging extremist views and violence. "It enables you to be bolder," Byman said. Online sleuths quickly connected the livestreamed video to posts made by the same user on 8chan, a dark corner of the web where those disaffected by mainstream social media sites often post extremist, racist and violent views. Tarrant's manifesto spread quickly on 8chan Friday. The 74-page screed espouses white supremacist views even as it contradicts itself. Some saw similarities to the 1,500-page manifesto written by Anders Behring Breivik, a Norwegian right-wing extremist who killed 77 people in 2011. READ HERE | New Zealand mosque shooter saw victims as 'invaders who would replace the white race' The Tarrant document seemed intended to feed the online communities he took part in, in part by "trolling" common internet themes and outlooks with ironic mockery. "Were you taught violence and extremism by video games, music, literature, cinema?" Tarrant asks himself in the essay. "Yes, Spyro the dragon 3 taught me ethno-nationalism," he writes, seemingly sarcastically. That passage references a video game for Sony's PlayStation console intended for children 10 and up. "Fortnite trained me to be a killer and to floss on the corpses of my enemies," he continued, only to abruptly contradict himself in a classic trolling move: "No." Fortnite is a popular online battle game. Mary Anne Franks, a law professor at the University of Miami and president of the Cyber Civil Rights Initiative called for greater oversight of social platforms after Tarrant's manifesto and attack. "It's pretty clear the person involved here was radicalized online," she said. "The conversations in these chat rooms and message boards, with in-jokes and memes, are part of a cultivation of a certain kind of radical person in these spaces." Still, it can be hard to pin his actions on his behavior online, said Hannah Bloch-Webha, a law professor at Drexel University. "I don't think society understands enough about the role of propaganda and violent speech in provoking actual violence," she said. READ HERE | Victims were shot until their death: Survivors recall chilling stories In a live-streamed video of his attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, the shooter says "Remember, lads, subscribe to PewDiePie." That's a reference to Felix Kjellberg, a popular YouTuber who has faced considerable controversy of his own over videos that included anti-Semitic jokes and Nazi imagery. But again, Tarrant's meaning wasn't straightforward, since he was repeating a popular internet meme crafted to help PewDiePie claim the largest number of followers on YouTube. Kjellberg condemned the attack in a tweet Friday and said he was "sickened" by the use of his name. The act of livestreaming the attack was in itself a sign of how far internet culture has permeated the physical world. People regularly stream daily events now, said Byman of the Brookings Institute, including their confrontations with law enforcement. The shooter did his research, said Rabbi Abraham Cooper, associate dean of the Simon Wiesenthal Center, a Jewish human rights organization. "He found information online, he found validation, he found an ideology and a purpose in life that led directly to what he did," Cooper said. READ HERE | Facebook, YouTube blindsided by New Zealand mosque attackers live video Social media is at the center of this increasing challenge, he said. Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and other sites that allow people to upload their own content have faced fierce backlash for letting violent and hate-filled posts and videos spread. The companies eventually halted the spread of the New Zealand shooting livestream Friday. But many say they were too slow, and argue the video shouldn't have gone online in the first place. By PTI NEW YORK: A leading US daily has questioned China's blocking of another move at the UN to designate Masood Azhar as a "global terrorist", stating that Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's chief is a "proven threat" and Beijing is "loath to upset" its "all-weather" friendship with Islamabad. The Editorial Board of the Wall Street Journal, in an editorial piece titled 'China Shields a Jihadist - Beijing blocks a UN attempt to sanction the Kashmir killer', said without meaningful global action against jihadist enclaves in Pakistan, India may "understandably conclude it has few options other than a military escalation". The editorial comes after China for the fourth time blocked a bid in the United Nations (UN) Security Council to designate Azhar as a "global terrorist" by putting a technical hold on the proposal on Wednesday, a move India termed as disappointing. ALSO READ | US, France & UK in intense discussions with China on Masood Azhar listing at UN The proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council was moved by France, the UK and the US on February 27, days after the Pulwama terror attack which killed forty Indian soldiers. "Azhar is a proven threat. Why would China give him a terror pass?," the Editorial Board asked. "Beijing is loath to upset what it calls its 'all- weather' friendship with Pakistan, and one reason is strategic. The US cut military aid to Islamabad last year after President (Donald) Trump cited its support of terrorists in Afghanistan, and China wants to fill the gap," it said. The editorial noted that tensions had de-escalated between India and Pakistan after the February 14 terror attack by Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Kashmir's Pulwama district which killed 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel. In the days since (Pulwama attack), "the global focus now shifts to rooting out terrorists in Pakistan, but China is already easing international pressure on Islamabad to do so," the editorial said. It said the proposal moved in the UN Security Council's Sanctions Committee against Azhar in the last 10 years would have subjected the JeM chief to a travel ban, an assets freeze and an arms embargo. A UN blacklisting would pressure Pakistan to comply, the Editorial Board said, adding that the US State Department concluded in 2017 that Islamabad failed to stop the JeM from "openly raising money, recruiting and training" in the country. ALSO READ | India will be 'patient' with China for 'as long as it takes' to list Masood Azhar as global terrorist But Beijing put a hold on the proposal saying they "still need more time" to consider the matter, according to Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang. The editorial noted that the international community should not "expect a change" in this stance given that Beijing has blocked Security Council action against Azhar in 2016 and 2017. Lu suggested that UN sanctions against Azhar could endanger the region's stability, "but the opposite is true", the write-up noted. "Without meaningful global action against jihadist enclaves in Pakistan, New Delhi may understandably conclude it has few options other than a military escalation," it added. The editorial cited the American Enterprise Institute's China Global Investment Tracker, saying China has poured nearly USD 32 billion into Pakistani infrastructure through Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative. From 2008-2017, Pakistan imported USD 6 billion in weapons from China, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies, making it Beijing's biggest arms customer in Asia. The editorial also noted that China was "shielding" Azhar even as it uses the threat of terror to sanction its own citizens - the Chinese Uighur Muslims. It said in its northwestern Xinjiang province, more than one million Chinese Uighur Muslims have been detained in "re-education" centers under the guise of preventing extremism. By PTI BELGRADE: The white supremacist suspected in the mosque shootings that left at least 49 people dead in New Zealand had travelled to the Balkans in the past three years, where he toured historic sites and apparently studied battles between Christians and the Ottoman empire. Authorities in Bulgaria, Turkey and Croatia have confirmed that Brenton Tarrant, 28, had been to their countries in 2016-2018. Hungarian counterterrorism authorities also suggested that Tarrant had visited but revealed no other information, and local media in Bosnia reported a 2017 trip there. While the details of Tarrant's travels are sketchy, authorities in those countries said they are investigating his movements and any contacts he might have had with local people. During his unprecedented, live-streamed shooting spree Friday in Christchurch, Tarrant exposed his apparent fascination with the religious conflicts in Europe and the Balkans, a volatile region that has been the site of some of Europe's most violent clashes. ALSO READ | New Zealand shootings: Keralite woman among 49 killed, confirms Pinarayi Vijayan Tarrant's soundtrack as he drove to the Christchurch mosque included a nationalist Serb song from the 1992-95 Bosnian war that tore apart Yugoslavia. The song glorifies Serbian fighters and former Bosnian Serb political leader Radovan Karadzic the man jailed at the United Nations war crimes tribunal in The Hague for genocide and other war crimes against Bosnian Muslims. Tarrant's rifles contained the names of legendary Serbs and Montenegrins who fought against the 500-year-rule of the Muslim Ottomans in the Balkans, written in the Cyrillic alphabet used by the two Orthodox Christian nations. In a 74-page manifesto that he posted on social media, Tarrant said he was a white supremacist who was out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims. While Serbia and Bosnia have not confirmed that Tarrant had visited, police in neighbouring Croatia issued a brief statement Saturday saying he was in the country in December 2016 and January 2017. It was not known if his stay was continuous. Croatia's 24 sata (24 hours) news site said Tarrant left Croatia by plane from the capital Zagreb on January 18, 2017, after visiting the Adriatic coastal cities of Porec, Zadar, Sibenik and Dubrovnik, where he mostly stayed in hostels. "Until that moment yesterday (in New Zealand), that person was not in the focus of our institutions," Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic told reporters Saturday, according to the official HINA news agency. In Bosnia, the local Klix.ba news portal reported that Tarrant arrived in that country from Montenegro in early January 2017. IN PHOTOS | Bloody Friday: 49 worshippers killed after gunman unleashes terror on packed mosques in New Zealand Bulgaria's chief prosecutor, Sotir Tsatsarov, said Friday that Tarrant last year rented a car and toured more than a dozen cities, visiting historic sites from November 9 to November 15. He was mainly interested in the battles between Christians and the Ottoman army, the prosecutor said. The Interior Ministry said Bulgaria is coordinating with counterterrorism teams from various countries, including the United States, over Tarrant. An investigation has been launched into whether he had contacts with local citizens, authorities said. Turkey is also investigating Tarrant's movements during his two reported visits to the country that straddles Europe and Asia and who had three citizens injured in Friday's slaughter. State broadcaster TRT says Tarrant visited Turkey twice in 2016 on March 17-20 and from Sept.13 to Oct.25. The station released a security camera image of him arriving at Istanbul's Ataturk Airport. ALSO READ | New Zealand mosque massacre: Two missing persons from Telangana confirmed dead Hungary's Counter-Terrorism Center suggested in an email to The Associated Press that he also visited there, saying they are cooperating with other countries to "fully examine the circumstances of (Tarrant's) Hungarian trip and stay." "The details and phases of this process ' for understandable reasons ' are not public," the center said. In Bosnia, many residents said the massacre in New Zealand and Tarrant's mention of Karadzic, who has been convicted of genocide, have brought back their own horrific memories of the Bosnian war, which killed more than 100,000 people. "This (attack) is more proof that Karadzic's ideology is a motive for killings and terrorism," said Adel Sabanovic, a Muslim from the Bosnian capital of Sarajevo and a survivor of the 1995 Srebrenica massacre in which Bosnian Serb troops killed some 8,000 Muslim boys and men. "It must be condemned in strongest possible terms." A YouTube video for the song that Tarrant played in his car on the way to gunning people down at the mosque in Christchurch shows emaciated Muslim prisoners in Serb-run detention camps during the war. "Beware Ustashas and Turks," says the song, using wartime, derogatory terms for Bosnian Croats and Bosnian Muslims used by Serb nationalists. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said the New Zealand shooting is "a terrible crime conducted by a psychopath." He criticised foreign and domestic media for somehow implying that Serbs should be blamed for the crime because of the gunman's "taste for music." By AFP CHRISTCHURCH: A right-wing extremist who filmed himself on a shooting rampage that left 49 mosque-goers dead flashed a white power gesture as he appeared in a New Zealand court Saturday charged with murder. Australian-born 28-year-old Brenton Tarrant stood in the dock wearing handcuffs and a white prison smock, as the judge read a single murder charge against him. A raft of further charges are expected. The former fitness instructor and self-professed fascist occasionally turned to look at media present in court during the brief hearing that the public were excluded from for security reasons. Flanked by armed police he made an upside-down "okay" signal, a symbol used by white power groups across the globe. He did not request bail and was taken into custody until his next court appearance which is scheduled for April 5. A short distance from the court, 39 people were being treated in hospital for gunshot wounds and other injuries inflicted in the massacre. The wounded included a two-year-old boy and a four-year-old girl, who was in critical condition. Doctors at Christchurch hospital said they worked through the night in 12 operating theatres to treat the survivors. READ HERE | New Zealand mosque shooter saw victims as 'invaders who would replace the white race' This frame from video that was livestreamed Friday, March 15, 2019, shows a gunman, who used the name Brenton Tarrant on social media, in a car before the mosque shootings in Christchurch, New Zealand. (Photo | AP) The attack on the Al Noor and Linwood mosques has been labelled terrorism by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and is thought to be the deadliest attack directed against Muslims in the West in modern times. Outside the court, the son of 71-year-old Afghan victim Daoud Nabi demanded justice for his late father, who believed New Zealand to be a "slice of paradise." "It's outrageous" he said. "It's beyond imagination." Ardern said the victims came from across the Muslim world, with Turkey, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Malaysia among the countries rendering consular assistance. One Saudi citizen and two Jordanians were among the dead, while five Pakistani citizens were missing. Ardern, wearing a black headscarf, met with survivors and victims' families Saturday at a college which has become an information centre for those affected by the tragedy. Sahra Ahmed, a New Zealander of Somali origin, said she was touched by the PM's gesture. "It means a lot. It is a signal to say -- I am with you," she told AFP. READ HERE | Stand united against anti-Muslim hatred, urges UN chief after New Zealand mosque terror attack Grief and shock The attack has prompted an outpouring of grief and deep shock in this usually peaceful and hospitable country, which prides itself on welcoming refugees fleeing violence or persecution. The last comparable mass shooting in New Zealand was almost three decades ago, and the annual murder rate is usually around 50 people for the entire country. Although shops were shuttered and many decided to stay at home Saturday, bouquets of flowers piled up at a makeshift memorial near the Al Noor mosque, many accompanied with handwritten letters laden with sadness and disbelief. "I am so sorry that you were not safe here. Our hearts are breaking for your loss," read one of the notes marked with a string of x-kisses. Ardern said the shooter was "in possession of a gun licence" obtained in November 2017, and he started legally purchasing the weapons the following month. Two semi-automatic weapons, reportedly AR-15s, two shotguns and a lever-action gun were used in the attacks. Ardern said some of the guns had been modified to make them deadlier. "I can tell you one thing right now -- our gun laws will change," she said. The suspect documented his radicalisation and two years of preparations in a lengthy, meandering and conspiracy filled far-right "manifesto". He live-streamed footage of himself going room-to-room, victim to victim, shooting the wounded from close range as they struggled to crawl away in the main Christchurch mosque. Thirty-six minutes after the police received the first call, Tarrant was in custody. Commissioner Mike Bush hailed the "absolute bravery" of both police and members of the public "who put themselves in harm's way" to apprehend the suspect. "Their intervention may very likely have saved further lives." Some of the officers involved in the operation were rural police officers who Ardern said "put New Zealand first" Two other people remain in custody, although their link to the attack is not clear. One man, 18-year-old Daniel Burrough, has been charged with incitement. ALSO READ | Live streaming, dark web chatrooms: Shooter's attack steeped in underground internet culture 'Horrible massacre' Revulsion at the attack, and tributes to the victims, poured in from around the world, including from Pope Francis and Britain's Queen Elizabeth II. US President Donald Trump condemned the "horrible massacre" in which "innocent people have so senselessly died", but denied that the problem of right-wing extremism was widespread. Australian police said they had visited Tarrant's childhood home in the town of Grafton, north of Sydney, and spoken to family members as part of their investigation. The attack has prompted searching questions about whether right-wing extremism has been treated with enough seriousness by Western governments. Ali Soufan, a former high-ranking FBI counter-terrorism agent, warned the West was "in the midst of a surge of right-wing terrorism that has been metastasising in plain sight while generating only a muted response from domestic counter-terrorism authorities." Ardern admitted "the individual charged with murder had not come to the attention of the intelligence community, nor the police, for extremism." "I have asked our agencies this morning to work swiftly on assessing whether there was any activity on social media or otherwise, that should have triggered a response." Ardern said these issues would be addressed at a cabinet meeting on Monday. ALSO READ | Indians missing in Mosque massacre: MEA in touch with New Zealand authorities By Associated Press SYDNEY: The gunman behind at least one of the mosque shootings in New Zealand that left 49 people dead on Friday tried to make a few things clear in the manifesto he left behind: He is a 28-year-old Australian white nationalist who hates immigrants. He was angry about attacks in Europe that were perpetrated by Muslims. He wanted revenge, and he wanted to create fear. He also, quite clearly, wanted attention. Though he claimed not to covet fame, the gunman who authorities identified as Brenton Harrison Tarrant left behind a 74-page document posted on social media under his name in which he said he hoped to survive the attack to better spread his views in the media. He also livestreamed to the world in graphic detail his assault on the worshippers at Christchurch's Al Noor Mosque. That rampage killed at least 41 people, while an attack on a second mosque in the city not long after killed several more. Police did not say whether the same person was responsible for both shootings. Tarrant appeared briefly in court on Saturday morning amid tight security and showed no emotion as the judge read the charge against him. While his manifesto and video were an obvious and contemptuous ploy for infamy, they do contain important clues for a public trying to understand why anyone would target dozens of innocent people who were simply spending an afternoon engaged in prayer. READ HERE | Victims were shot until their death: Survivors recall chilling stories There could be no more perplexing a setting for a mass slaughter than New Zealand, a nation so placid and so isolated from the mass shootings that plague the U.S. that police officers rarely carry guns. Yet the gunman himself highlighted New Zealand's remoteness as a reason he chose it. He wrote that an attack in New Zealand would show that no place on earth was safe and that even a country as far away as New Zealand is subject to mass immigration. He said he grew up in a working-class Australian family, had a typical childhood and was a poor student. Tarrant's relatives in the Australian town of Grafton contacted police after learning of the shooting and were helping with the investigation, local authorities said. Tarrant has spent little time in Australia in the past four years and only had minor traffic infractions on his record. A woman who said she was a colleague of his when he worked as a personal trainer in Grafton said she was shocked by the allegations against him. "I can't ... believe that somebody I've probably had daily dealings with and had shared conversations and interacted with would be able of something to this extreme," Tracey Gray told the Australian Broadcasting Corp. The rambling manifesto is filled with confusing and seemingly contradictory assertions about his beliefs. ALSO READ | Live streaming, dark web chatrooms: Shooter's attack steeped in underground internet culture Beyond his white nationalistic views, he claimed to be an environmentalist and said he is a fascist who believes China is the nation that most aligns with his political and social values. He said he has contempt for the wealthiest 1 percent. And he singled out American conservative commentator Candace Owens as the person who had influenced him the most, while saying "the extreme actions she calls for are too much, even for my tastes." In a tweet, Owens responded by saying that if the media portrayed her as the inspiration for the attack, it had better hire lawyers. The manifesto also included a single reference to President Donald Trump in which the author asked and answered the question of whether he was a Trump supporter: "As a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose? Sure. As a policy maker and leader? Dear god no." Throughout the manifesto, the theme he returns to most often is conflict between people of European descent and Muslims, often framing it in terms of the Crusades. Among his hate-filled statements is a claim that he was motivated toward violence by an episode that occurred in 2017 while he was touring through Western Europe. That was when an Uzbek man drove a truck into a crowd of people in Stockholm, killing five. ALSO READ | Indians missing in Mosque massacre: MEA in touch with New Zealand authorities He said his desire for violence grew when he arrived in France, where he said he was offended by the sight of immigrants in the cities and towns he visited. Three months ago, he said, he started planning to target Christchurch. He said he has donated to many nationalist groups, but claimed not to be a direct member of any organization. However, he admitted contacts with an anti-immigration group called the reborn Knights Templar and said he got the approval of Anders Breivik for the attack, a claim that has not been verified. Breivik is a right-wing Norwegian extremist who killed 77 people in Oslo and a nearby island in 2011. Breivik's lawyer Oeystein Storrvik told Norway's VG newspaper that his client, who is in prison, has "very limited contacts with the surrounding world, so it seems very unlikely that he has had contact" with the New Zealand gunman. The gunman rambled on about the supposed aims for the attack, which included reducing immigration by intimidating immigrants and driving a wedge between NATO and the Turkish people. He also said he hoped to further polarize and destabilize the West, and spark a civil war in the United States that would ultimately result in a separation of races. The attack has had the opposite impact, with condemnation of the bloodshed pouring in from all quarters of the globe, and calls for unity against hatred and violence. The gunman used various hate symbols associated with the Nazis and white supremacy. For instance, the number 14 is seen on his rifle, a possible reference to the "14 Words," a white supremacist slogan attributed in part to Adolf Hitler's "Mein Kampf," according to the Southern Poverty Law Center. He also used the symbol of the Schwarze Sonne, or black sun, which "has become synonymous with myriad far-right groups who traffic in neo-Nazi," according to the center. READ HERE | Stand united against anti-Muslim hatred, urges UN chief after New Zealand mosque terror attack His victims, he wrote, were chosen because he saw them as invaders who would replace the white race. He predicted he would feel no remorse for their deaths. And in the video he livestreamed of his shooting, no remorse can be seen or heard as he sprays terrified worshippers with bullets again and again, sometimes firing at people he has already cut down. The gunman a licensed gun owner who bought the five guns used in the shootings legally left a scene of carnage that shocked the nation, and the world. It was, in the words of New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern "one of New Zealand's darkest days." By PTI DHAKA: Two Bangladeshis have been killed, five others injured and three were missing in New Zealand's worst terror attacks that claimed 49 lives, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam said here on Saturday. Speaking to reporters at an event at the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Bangladesh here, Alam revised the death toll, saying one of the victim identified as 'Mrs Samad' was found alive. In a statement published on the minister's Facebook page, the dead have been identified as Dr Abdus Samad, a professor of Lincoln University in New Zealand, and Hosne Ara Parvin. Bangladesh Honorary Consul in Auckland Shafiqur Rahman Bhuiyan on Friday said that three Bangladeshi nationals had been killed in the attack. They were identified as Dr Samad, his wife and another woman, Hosne Ara Parvin. At least 49 worshippers were killed and 20 others injured in attacks on the Al Noor Mosque in central Christchurch and the Linwood Mosque in the city's outer suburb on Friday. The gunman at one mosque was an Australian-born citizen and has been described as an extremist, right-wing, violent terrorist. "The death toll was based on initial reports from the expatriate community, but it had been revised down to two after one of the victim identified as 'Mrs Samad' was found alive," the state minister was quoted as saying by the bdnews24.com. Samad was born in Mymensingh and a faculty member of Bangladesh Agriculture University. Parvin and her husband Farid Uddin had been living in Christchurch for several decades, the report said. Alam said three Bangladesh nationals were missing since the attack. They have been identified as Mozammel Haque, Zakaria Bhuiyan and Shaon. Five injured, identified as Lipi, Muntasim, Sheikh Hassan Rubel, Shahjada Akhtar and Omar Farooq, have been hospitalised, where the condition of two is said to be critical, the minister said. By PTI WASHINGTON: The Trump administration is now focused on pressing Pakistan to take "sustained and irreversible" actions against terrorist groups operating from its soil, a senior American diplomat has said. Recently, tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14. A senior State Department official said Friday that the US stood "publicly and resolutely" with India in its response to the attack. "Now we are focused on pressing Pakistan to take sustained, irreversible action on terrorist groups operating on its soil, and we are working with others in the international community to achieve this goal," the official said. ALSO READ | Army chief warns Pakistan terror groups of another military action if need arise "The United States stood publicly and resolutely with India in its response to the attack, as you saw in our statements, while joining the international community in encouraging both sides to avoid military escalation, de-escalate tensions and communicate directly," he said. In the aftermath of the Pulwama attack, the United States has not only supported India's right to self-defence, but also has been building sustained pressure on Pakistan to take action against terrorist groups. Earlier in the day, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told Fox News that Pakistan has to stop harbouring terrorists. "We saw what happened with India, the conflict that arose there as a result of terrorists that departed from Pakistan. We need Pakistanis to step up. They need to stop harbouring terrorists," he said. Pompeo had played a key role in de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan after Indian jets carried out air strikes at terrorist training camps of JeM in Balakot. Senior officials who are part of the de-escalation efforts in South Asia believe that this is only possible as long as there is no terrorist attack inside India coming from Pakistan. The recent talks between India and Pakistan on Kartarpur corridor is considered as a positive development in the US. The US officials believe that both Islamabad and New Delhi have shown seriousness in de-escalating the tensions. ALSO READ | Pakistan Army claims to shoot down 'spying' Indian quadcopter along LoC At the same time, they believe that the onus for this largely lies on Pakistan. If Pakistan continues with its age-old policy of supporting terrorist groups, the Trump administration may look into other options which could range from selective visa ban, revoking its non-NATO ally status and even cutting civilian aid to Pakistan. Since January 2018, US President Donald Trump has stopped all security assistance to Pakistan. It is understood that the focus for the Trump administration is not on any punitive action against Pakistan, but to convince its leadership including Prime Minister Imran Khan and Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa that it is in their interest to take sustained and irreversible actions against terrorist groups. The focus right now is to convince Pakistan that it is not in its interest to be isolated from the international community and it is in its interest to maintaining stable relationship with India. Post Balakot, Pakistan has been told time and again that the reason that the situation is fragile in South Asia is because of cross border terrorism. In the wake of the Pulwama terror attack, India launched a major diplomatic offensive against Pakistan, holding briefing for envoys of 25 countries, including those from the five permanent UNSC members -- the US, China, Russia, the UK and France -- to highlight Islamabad's role in using terrorism as an instrument of state policy. The Lesson The Angel of the Lord went down with Azariah and his companions into the furnace, and he drove the flame of the fire out of the furnace, and made the midst of the furnace like the blowing of a wind bringing dew. And the flame mounted up above the furnace nine and forty cubits, and burnt such of the Chaldeans as it found near the furnace, the ministers of the king who kindled the fire. And the fire touched them not at all, nor troubled them, nor did them any harm. Then these three as with one mouth praised, and glorified, and blessed God in the furnace, saying: (Here Sarum continues to read as part of the Lesson the words which are sung as the Canticle in the Roman Use.) Blessed art thou, O Lord the God of our fathers: and worthy to be praised, and glorified, and exalted above all for ever: and blessed is the name of thy glory, which is holy: and worthy to be praised, and exalted above all in all ages. Blessed art thou in the holy temple of thy glory: and exceedingly to be praised, and exceeding glorious for ever. Blessed art thou on the throne of thy kingdom, and exceedingly to be praised, and exalted above all for ever. (Here 3 verses are added from the old Latin text.) Blessed art thou upon the scepter of thy divinity: and exceedingly to be praised, and exceeding glorious for ever. Blessed art thou, that beholdest the depths, and sittest upon the cherubims: and worthy to be praised and exalted above all for ever. Blessed art thou, who walkest upon the wings of the winds, and upon the waves of the sea: and worthy to be praised and exalted above all for ever. Here the canticle begins, alternating between two cantors and the choir. V. R. V. R. (This response is repeated by the choir after each verse.) V. R. V. R. V. R. V. R. V. R. V. R. V. R. V. R. V. R. V. V. R. The Cantors repeat the beginning: and the choir finishes: O ye holy and humble of heart, bless the Lord! When the Lenten station is held at St Peters Basilica, on Ember Saturday and Passion Sunday, the Papal altar is decorated with relics according to a particular arrangement. The relics of martyrs are placed closer to the edge of the mensa, and those of other Saints further in; the four corners are decorated with reliquaries shaped like obelisks, with long bones (tibias and such) in them. On each of the two short sides of the altar is set a rectangular panel containing relics of 35 Popes, between them, all of the Sainted Popes except the most recent. In the Roman Missal, the fifth prophecy is the same on all four of the Saturday Ember Days, Daniel 3, 47-51, with a few of the verses re-ordered. The words that follow in the Biblical text (verses 52-57) are sung as a canticle, according to a very beautiful melody. This canticle is one of the oldest pieces in the repertoire of Gregorian chant; the text follows the so-called Old Latin translation of the Bible which was used before St Jeromes Vulgate, and contains several more verses than are found in the Vulgate version. In the Roman Use, the canticle is sung on the Ember Saturdays of Advent, Lent and September, but supplanted by a very short Alleluja on the Ember Saturday of Pentecost week.The Sarum Use arranges both the reading and the canticle that follows differently on each of the four Ember Days. In Advent, it is basically the same as the Roman, with a few small variants. In Lent, on the other hand, the words of the Roman canticle are sung as part of the Lesson; the canticle of Sunday Lauds, the(Daniel 3, 57-88) is then sung in a special arrangement, alternating between two cantors who sing the verses, and the choir singing the response.Blessed art thou in the firmament of heaven, and praiseworthy and glorious forever.Blessed art thou in the firmament of heaven, and praiseworthy and glorious forever.All ye works of the Lord, bless the Lord. O ye heavens, bless the Lord. O ye angels of the Lord, bless the Lord.Sing ye a hymn, and exalt him above all for ever.O all ye waters that are above the heavens, bless the Lord. O all ye powers of the Lord, bless the Lord. O ye sun and moon, bless the Lord.Sing ye...O all ye waters that are above the heavens, bless the Lord. O all ye powers of the Lord, bless the Lord. O ye sun and moon, bless the Lord.Sing ye...O ye stars of heaven, bless the Lord. O every shower and dew, bless ye the Lord. O all ye spirits of God, bless the Lord.Sing ye...O ye fire and heat, bless the Lord. O ye nights and days, bless the Lord. O ye darkness and light, bless the Lord.Sing ye...O ye cold and heat, bless the Lord. O ye frost and snows, bless the Lord. O ye lightnings and clouds, bless the Lord.Sing ye...O let the earth bless the Lord. O all ye mountains and hills, bless the Lord. O ye that are born of the earth, bless the Lord.Sing ye...O all ye seas and rivers, bless the Lord. O ye fountains, bless the Lord. O ye whales, and all that move in the waters, bless the Lord.Sing ye...O all ye fowls of the air, bless the Lord. O ye beasts and cattle, bless the Lord. O ye sons of men, bless the Lord.Sing ye...O let Israel bless the Lord. O ye priests of the Lord, bless the Lord. O servants of the Lord, bless the Lord.Sing ye...O spirits and souls of the just, bless the Lord. O ye holy and humble of heart, bless the Lord. R. Sing ye.O Ananiah, Azariah, Misael, bless the Lord.Sing ye...Blessed art thou in the firmament of heaven.And praiseworthy and glorious forever.On the long side facing the apse, a bust reliquary of Pope St Damasus I (366-84, feast on December 11), containing the relics of his skull, is placed in the middle. This is a particularly appropriate choice, since Damasus was a great promoter of devotion to the saints and the cult of the relics, particularly those of the Roman martyrs. Within many catacombs, he rearranged the spaces around the tombs of the martyrs to make it easier for pilgrims to find and visit them, decorating the tombs themselves with elaborately carved inscriptions written by himself in classical poetic meter. For this reason, he is honored as the patron Saint of archeologists. Champaign, IL (61820) Today Foggy with periods of rain this afternoon. Thunder possible. High 59F. Winds SSE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight Windy with thunderstorms, especially this evening. A few storms may be severe. Low 36F. Winds SSW at 25 to 35 mph. Chance of rain 80%. (Newser) There's new talk of "redemption" in Hollywood specifically for James Gunn, the 52-year-old director cut loose by Disney last year from the third installation of the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise after "offensive" old tweets of his resurfaced. Mike Fleming of Deadline says he was told Disney had a change of heart and has reinstated Gunn as the writer and director of the film, news he also confirmed with Gunn's team and Marvel Comics. Walt Disney Studios Chair Alan Horn had apparently met multiple times with Gunn in recent months and been persuaded that Gunn was sorry for his actionshe had issued a public apology for the "wildly insensitive," decade-old tweets on rape, 9/11, and pedophilia, among other topicsand handled the situation well after the tweets bubbled back due to digging by right-wing journalists. story continues below Fleming notes it probably helped Gunn that he "fell on his sword early and often and never lashed out at Disney." The AP has also confirmed (with Gunn's people and Disney) the reinstatement news, while Vox reports on Gunn's own Friday tweet on the matter, in which he said "I deeply appreciate Disney's decision" and "will continue to work at being the best human being I can be." The Hollywood Reporter notes insiders are saying that Marvel and Disney had never even sought out another director, instead working "in secret" to get Gunn back on the movie. It's not yet clear when Guardians will go into production, as Gunn signed on to write and direct DC Comics' next Suicide Squad movie, which starts shooting in the fall and has an August 2021 release date. (Read more James Gunn stories.) (Newser) A North Carolina man whose wife turned up dead this weekand whose first wife died of an apparent accident in 2006is now being sought for first-degree murder, CNN reports. Authorities say Lynn Keel, 57, is considered armed and dangerous and may be driving a 1998 Stepside Chevy pickup, per WTVD. Investigators initially questioned him as a person of interest after Diana Alejandra Keel, 38, vanished from their Nashville home Saturday and was found decomposing in the woods Tuesday near Leggett. "There is definitely foul play involved," said Nash County Sheriff Keith Stone, per People. "We're just going to take it step-by-step and take our time with the investigation." story continues below Stone also said authorities had responded to the Keel home over "small domestic issues" and "communication problems" but didn't elaborate, per WRAL. As for Lynn's first wife, Elizabeth Edward Keel reportedly fell and hit her forehead on the concrete steps of her residencethe same one Diana Keel disappeared fromat a time when Lynn was home. She died of blunt force trauma and authorities ruled her death accidental. Now, with police on alert for Lynn's pickup, family members are reeling from Diana's sudden death. "This is insane," tweeted her daughter with photos of the two together. "You see this happen to everyone else and you don't think it's ever happen to you." Diana also leaves behind a 10-year-old son. (Read more murder stories.) (Newser) The hand symbol may say it all. The alleged killer of least 49 people at two New Zealand mosques smirked in court Saturday and made a symbolan "OK" gesture with the thumb and index fingers forming a circlethat many are taking as a white power sign, Sky News reports. That would echo an online treatise that authorities attribute to 28-year-old suspect Brenton Tarrant. "Were/are you a supporter of Donald Trump?" the manifesto's author writes, per NBC News. "As a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose? Sure. As a policy maker and leader? Dear god no." The author also predicts that the battle over gun control "will ultimately result in a civil war that will eventually balkanize the US along political, cultural and, most importantly, racial lines." For more: Wanted more: The suspect would have continued killing if community police officers hadn't run his vehicle off the road, CNN reports. "There were two other firearms in the vehicle that the offender was in and it absolutely was his intention to continue with his attack," says New Zealand's Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern. story continues below Gun laws : Ardern is also ready to change her country's gun laws, per NBC News. "While work is being done as to the chain of events that led to both the holding of this gun license and the possession of these weapons, I can tell you one thing right now: Our gun laws will change," she says. : Ardern is also ready to change her country's gun laws, per NBC News. "While work is being done as to the chain of events that led to both the holding of this gun license and the possession of these weapons, I can tell you one thing right now: Our gun laws will change," she says. Travel : An Australian personal trainer, Tarrant came into money after his father's 2010 death and traveled to places including China, North Korea, India, Pakistan, and Europe, Fox News reports. "I think something must have changed in him during the years he spent travelling overseas," gym manager Tracey Gray tells ABC News Australia. : An Australian personal trainer, Tarrant came into money after his father's 2010 death and traveled to places including China, North Korea, India, Pakistan, and Europe, Fox News reports. "I think something must have changed in him during the years he spent travelling overseas," gym manager Tracey Gray tells ABC News Australia. Historic battles : He also visited the Balkans from 2016 to 2018 and looked at historic sites, apparently to learn more about battles between the Ottoman Empire and Christians, the AP reports. : He also visited the Balkans from 2016 to 2018 and looked at historic sites, apparently to learn more about battles between the Ottoman Empire and Christians, the AP reports. His grandmother : "It's all very shocking, especially [it being] Brenton, he's a good boy," Tarrant's grandmother Joyce tells the Daily Mail. The suspect's mother and sister have apparently gone into hiding. : "It's all very shocking, especially [it being] Brenton, he's a good boy," Tarrant's grandmother Joyce tells the Daily Mail. The suspect's mother and sister have apparently gone into hiding. Another attack : Hours after the attacks, a group of men shouting Islamophobic slurs drove by a London mosqueand one jumped out and attacked a worshiper with a hammer, Al Jazeera reports. No arrests have been made. : Hours after the attacks, a group of men shouting Islamophobic slurs drove by a London mosqueand one jumped out and attacked a worshiper with a hammer, Al Jazeera reports. No arrests have been made. An egging : Australian senator Fraser Anning, who blamed Muslim immigration for the attacks, punched a 17-year-old boy after being egged in Melbourne, the Guardian reports. Anning supporters tackled the boy and held him in a chokehold. : Australian senator Fraser Anning, who blamed Muslim immigration for the attacks, punched a 17-year-old boy after being egged in Melbourne, the Guardian reports. Anning supporters tackled the boy and held him in a chokehold. Tears 'for all of us' : Actor-artist Jim Carrey is among those sharing their grief online over the mass shootings, the Huffington Post reports. "My heart is with you New Zealand, my tears are for all of us," he writes with a painting of himself crying. : Actor-artist Jim Carrey is among those sharing their grief online over the mass shootings, the Huffington Post reports. "My heart is with you New Zealand, my tears are for all of us," he writes with a painting of himself crying. Online fascism: Pro Publica dives into the murky online world where white supremacists express fascist, anti-immigrant, and anti-Semitic views. Stamping them out isn't so easy: "There are certain white supremacist channels that have been running for upwards of 10 years on YouTube," a researcher says. (Read more New Zealand mosque shootings stories.) (Newser) Students across a warming globe pleaded for their lives, future and planet Friday, demanding tough action on climate change, the AP reports. From the South Pacific to the edge of the Arctic Circle, angry students in more than 100 countries walked out of classes to protest what they see as the failures by their governments. Well more than 150,000 students and adults who were mobilized by word of mouth and social media protested in Europe, according to police estimates. But the initial turnout in the US did not look quite as high. "Borders, languages and religions do not separate us," eight-year-old Havana Chapman-Edwards, who calls herself the tiny diplomat, told hundreds of protesters at the US Capitol. "Today we are telling the truth and we do not take no for an answer." story continues below Thousands of New York City students protested at locations including Columbus Circle, City Hall, and the American Museum of Natural History. Police said 16 protesters were arrested on disorderly conduct charges for blocking traffic at the museum. The coordinated "school strikes" were inspired by 16-year-old Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, who began holding solitary demonstrations outside the Swedish parliament last year. Since then, the weekly protests have snowballed from a handful of cities to hundreds, fueled by dramatic headlines about the impact of climate change during the students' lifetime. Unless emissions of heat-trapping gases start dropping dramatically, scientists estimate that the protesters will be in their 40s and 50s, maybe even 30s, when the world will reach dangerous levels of warming that international agreements are trying to prevent. (Read more climate change stories.) Fairbanks, AK (99707) Today Variably cloudy with snow showers. High 14F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 60%. About one inch of snow expected.. Tonight Snow showers. Low 1F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 50%. 1 to 3 inches of snow expected. The Tokyo District Court has sentenced the former head of a digital currency exchange to 30 months in prison suspended for four years for altering data in a Bitcoin account. The French-born defendant, Mark Karpeles, was CEO of MtGox, which failed five years ago. The charges against him included altering data in the firm's computer system to pad his account balance and embezzling about 3 million dollars from clients' accounts in 2013. Karpeles pleaded not guilty to all charges, saying he has never misappropriated clients' money. In his ruling on Friday, presiding judge Tomoyuki Nakayama said the defendant falsified data to increase the balance in his Bitcoin account without actually sending money there. However, the judge acquitted Karpeles on the charge of embezzlement and another of aggravated breach of trust. MtGox went under in 2014 after losing a massive amount of Bitcoins to unauthorized access from outside the company. Japan will tighten oversight of pay for foreign employees through ordinances issued Friday, aiming to address major concerns over working conditions as the country prepares to accept more labor from abroad starting next month. Individuals working in Japan through two new visa categories for those possessing "specified skills" and some Japanese-language knowledge will typically be paid by direct deposit, a move designed to prevent wages from being withheld. Employers will report the number of foreign laborers and how those workers are paid to the authorities every quarter, as well as their estimated and actual payouts. The country is expected to receive up to 47,550 foreign workers in the year beginning April 1, when the visa legislation takes effect, and draw roughly 345,000 in the first five years. But there is concern over the treatment of these workers, especially given criticism that a similar internship system for foreigners are often used as a pool of cheap labor. A Ministry of Justice report last year identified low wages as a chief factor in driving the interns to flee their jobs by the thousands. Cash payments were the rule in the internship system, which led many intermediaries to exploit the workers. Companies that do not pay workers properly will be issued guidance from regional immigration and labor authorities. Those that fail to shape up may face fines and a five-year ban on hiring foreigners. While these penalties mirror those in the foreign internship system, it is hoped the additional government oversight will press businesses into complying. Rules issued Friday also ask employers to plan how they will support foreigners in their work, daily lives and efforts to learn the Japanese language. Employers will be asked to devise two new types of staff: one to provide advice and assistance to foreigners, and another for supervising the execution of these services. They will meet periodically with foreign workers and their on-site managers. With so many maid cafes in Tokyo it can be hard to pick just one to visit if youare pressed for time and on a tight itinerary. Now, though, the choice is easy, as Japanas most popular maid cafe, Akiba Zettai Ryoiki, has just opened their fourth branch in Akihabara, and this one boasts a cyberpunk-kawaii fusion theme that combines the world of maids with the future. The new cafe aims to capture Akihabaraas techno-cool image in its design, taking inspiration from futuristic films like Ghost in the Shell, Blade Runner, Neon Genesis Evangelion and Super Dimension Fortress Macross. Akiba Zettai enlisted the help of Japanese illustrators to bring the cafe together, using their talents to create the artwork on the menu, crockery, and interior wall markings. aZettai Ryoikia translates to aabsolute territorya and is used to refer to the exposed thigh area between skirt and thigh-high stocking. Like their other branches, the maids here are dressed to show off this aabsolute territorya, with these outfits designed by illustrator Ryosuke Fukai. The Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, on Friday apologised to Nigerians over the suspension of the Iju-Abeokuta free train r... The Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, on Friday apologised to Nigerians over the suspension of the Iju-Abeokuta free train ride during the 2019 general elections. Amaechi tendered the apology during the monthly rail inspection of the Lagos-Ibadan modernisation project in Ibadan, NAN reports. He said that the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) suspended the three months free train ride due to security and safety of passengers. It was suspended by the Chinese and the excuse they gave me was that they cannot allow it run because of safety, since they have not completed the second line but they are almost through with it. It is almost completed from Iju to Abeokuta. I want to apologise to Nigerians that they suspended it when they left the country, which I didnt envisage, they will go back soon, Amechi said. Speaking on his passion for the project, Amaechi said that the responsibility was given to him by President Muhammadu Buhari, which must be delivered to create jobs and boost the economy. I know you will say Im stressed up but as a minister, I have a responsibility passed to me by Mr President and I must deliver on it. Also, the economy of Nigeria can be driven most importantly, if we can link the seaport to hinterland because when cargoes come, they must go. The more you are able to move goods and services to hinterland, the more you will create jobs and the more you create jobs, the more growth that you will have and that is my drive, he said. The minister, however, said that he was always passionate about his job, stating that if a new minister would takeover, his was sure that the person would have the passion to complete the project. You see, me and passion, if you watched me as the governor of Rivers, that same passion was there. I was restless at delivering my responsibility. I pray that whoever will be the Minister of Transportation should have the same passion and focus on that responsibility. Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on Thursday night said that President Muhammadu Buhari was probably poorer than when he was elected in 2015.... Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on Thursday night said that President Muhammadu Buhari was probably poorer than when he was elected in 2015. Osinbajo spoke during a dinner in honour of volunteers who canvassed for votes for the APC during the campaigns for this years general election, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. He said When I looked at his assets declaration form, I was checking it in 2015, I said to him, Mr President, I am so much richer than you, it is an embarrassment. He said, I am only a soldier, you are a big lawyer so you should have more money than me. I can tell you that he is perhaps; even poorer than he was in 2015 when I saw his declaration of assets form. He also urged Nigerians to vote for the All Progressives Congress in the March 23 supplementary elections. The supplementary elections will take place in six states of Nigeria where the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, declared last Saturdays gubernatorial election inconclusive. He said We are still not done with the elections. On the 23rd of March, we still have some outstanding states and as you know we are re-running in about six states. And all of the efforts we need to put into those six states, we still need to do. We cant afford to slack off and say the job is done; we still have some things to do. Recalling the experiences he had during the electioneering, Osinbajo said his encounter with Nigerians as he crisscrossed the country, campaigning for votes, showed that Nigerians are so trusting and supportive of their leaders. I think that one of the main characteristics of the Nigerian is how so supportive and trusting many of our people are and they dont ask us for too much. They never really ask for anything that is impossible to do. And thats why, for many of us that went around this country, we realized the tremendous amount of work that there is to do and our capacity to do so much work. What our people need, as we discovered, isnt that much. As a matter of fact, I do not know any nation where the people are so generous no matter how poor they are. Osinbajo said there was need for the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari to connect more with the people. Osinbajo said there was need for the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari to connect more with the people. It just struck me that what we really need to do a lot more is to connect with the people. All the people need is opportunity for us to interact with them. We should have a way by which everybody is involved one way or the other. One of the complaints that people made about our government is that we were not communicating enough and that people did not know what had done. The vice president acknowledged that the diligent communication carried out to put across the APC message in 2015 was not sustained, making the administration lose some ground to the opposition, especially in the social media. He said the new administration would ensure that it makes change in that regard. Osinbajo said that he would take up everyone who has challenged the administration on the issue with a view to getting its communication of programmes and policies better. The Federal Government of Nigeria has condemned the terrorist attack on two places of worship in the city of Christchurch in New Zealand... The Federal Government of Nigeria has condemned the terrorist attack on two places of worship in the city of Christchurch in New Zealand. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, said this in a statement by the Ministrys Spokesperson, George Edokpa, on Friday in Abuja. Mr Onyeama condemned the attacks which took place during Jumaat Prayers on Friday killing 49 Muslim worshippers and injured many others. The minister who regretted the barbaric and vicious acts unleashed against innocent worshippers expressed Nigerias sympathies to New Zealand. Nigeria stands in solidarity with New Zealand in their time of grief and fully supports the prosecution of the perpetrators of this heinous crime to the fullest extent of the law, he said. He condoled with the government and the people of New Zealand and prayed for God to grant the families of the victims the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss and wished the injured speedy recovery. Beer makes up more than 40% of alcoholic drinks consumed globally and is the third most popular drink worldwide after water and tea. ... Beer makes up more than 40% of alcoholic drinks consumed globally and is the third most popular drink worldwide after water and tea. This enjoyable beverage is widely-consumed and is recorded as one of the oldest alcoholic drinks in the world. Although it associated with lifestyle choices and social activities, beer contains some incredible properties making it an incredible health boost for humans. It should be noted that the health benefits of beer are mostly functional when consumed moderately and responsibly. Without further ado, these are the four reasons you should consume more beer: Improves eyesight A study conducted by the University of Western Ontario suggests that drinking beer can minimize the risk of cataract. Beer consumption also protects the eye as the enzymes and antioxidants contained in beverages prevents mitochondrial damage. Great for the heart Beer has a thinning effect on the blood thereby decreasing any chances of a blood clot, which causes blockage of the coronary artery as well as the reduction of the risk of inflammation which causes atherosclerosis. Coronary heart disease (CAD) is one of the most common kinds of heart diseases affecting individuals in a wide age range and the function of beer reducing the chances of a blood clot in the coronary artery, a major cause of CAD, is a big deal. Promotes good skin You can say goodbye to acne or blackheads with beer. The vitamins present in this beverage act as corrective forces for skin acne. Beer is a great cleanser and dissolves dead skin cells. Additionally, it aids in balancing skin pH levels as well as increasing skin elasticity. When mixed with lemon juice, beer can act rapidly to clear skin depigmentation and blocked pores (the major cause of acne or skin breakouts). Minimizes the risk of diabetes Diabetes is a disease which causes a persons blood glucose or blood sugar to be too high. The common kinds of diabetes include Prediabetes, Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes and Gestational diabetes. A recent study by Harvard suggests that by drinking just a pint of beer daily, (moderate drinking) both males and females stand a lesser chance of developing Type 2 diabetes. Noteworthy statement Although beer consumption is related to a number of health benefits, it is important to note that the keyword in its positive relevance to the health is drinking in moderation. Additionally, beer drinking isnt for everyone; underaged individuals, persons with high blood pressure, pregnant and breastfeeding women should also not consume beer. Similarly, persons suffering from asthma, liver disease, insomnia, mental problems, or persons who have recently undergone surgery should avoid consuming beer. The younger sister of Bukola Saraki, Nigerias Senate President, Oyinkansola Saraki, has said her brother failed to live up to expecta... The younger sister of Bukola Saraki, Nigerias Senate President, Oyinkansola Saraki, has said her brother failed to live up to expectations while he served as Kwara State governor. Ms Saraki called out her brother on a national TV programme. She criticised her brothers performance and asked for forgiveness from Kwarans while appearing at TVCsYour View on Thursday. Backstory Mr Saraki lost his bid to return to the Senate and may not be active politically for the next four years if the PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, whom he supported does not succeed in his bid to challenge President Muhammadu Buharis electoral victory. Mr Abubakar lost to Mr Buhari at the last presidential polls but is challenging the victory in court. The Saraki dynasty in Kwara since 1979 has produced six governors from the time of late Olusola Saraki who is the father of the Senate President. The Saraki structure was strong force that except you aligned with it politically, you were not likely to succeed as a politician in Kwara State. The Senate President was elected governor of Kwara in 2003 through the help of his father. After his tenure, he refused to support the candidature of his sister, Gbemisola, a former senator. Instead, he supported the incumbent governor, Ahmed Abdulfatai, who floored his sister against the will of his father. In the build-up to the 2015 election, Mr Saraki joined other aggrieved governors of the PDP to form the nPDP. The nPDP would later join other parties to form the All Progressives Congress (APC). That did not affect his control of the Kwaras political machinery as Mr Sarakis new party, APC, won the 2015 general elections in Kwara. He began to face challenges after the 2015 elections when he defied the APC, to emerge the Senate President, working in cahoots with PDP lawmakers. He, eventually, left the APC for the PDP in 2018 and sought the presidential ticket of the latter. He lost at the primary to Mr Abubakar. Mr Saraki was floored in the last elections. While the Senate President failed to deliver to PDP in the the presidential, national assembly and governorship election, he also lost his re-election to the Senate. With the magic of the political slogan, Oto ge (enough is enough), the PDP lost in all the 2019 elections in Kwara. Bukola, a failure Sister Reacting to the development, Oyinkansola Saraki, said she was disappointed with the way her brother governed the state. I am disappointed that Bukola Saraki did not do well when he was a governor in Kwara State having studied in the United Kingdom. Bukola and I studied in the United Kingdom, he knows all the good things in the United Kingdom. We think (thought) he should (would) reciprocate that in Kwara when he became the Governor but he failed them. Even as a Senate President, he has not carried the people of Kwara along. I am not happy the way my brother served Kwarans. She appealed to the newly elected state governor, Abdurahman Abdurazaq, to give her the opportunity to correct the family wrong to avoid nemesis. Chidi Lloyd, an ally of Rotimi Amaechi, minister of transportation, has apologised for insulting President Muhammadu Buhari. Lloyd... Chidi Lloyd, an ally of Rotimi Amaechi, minister of transportation, has apologised for insulting President Muhammadu Buhari. (APC) in Rivers state. Lloyd had accused Buhari of turning against members of the All Progressives Congress(APC) in Rivers state. Magnus Abe, senator representing Rivers south-east, had tackled Lloyd, warning those supporting Amaechi against blaming their woes on the president. But in his response to Abe, Lloyd said the senator colluded with Nyeson Wike, governor of the state, to prevent the APC from gaining power. He also accused Abe of collecting gifts from the governor to frustrate APC, adding that the senator did everything in his power to thwart Buharis reelection. My attention has been drawn to an orchestrated mischief titled: Stop Abusing President Buhari, Abe Cautions Amaechi by Senator Magnus Abe aimed at pushing my personal views as though they were that of Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, he said. Ordinarily, and by my nature, I wouldnt have bothered with a reply to the diatribes but for the damage he intends to do, I want to state categorically that my views are my personal thoughts and should not be credited to any other person other than me. I want to state here that no reasonable member of the APC in Rivers State feels happy over what is happening in Rivers State of which Magnus Abe is part of. As a stakeholder in the politics of Rivers State, I feel sad that a collaboration of Senator Magnus Abe and Governor Wike and their accomplices in the Rivers State Judiciary denied us so much in power structure of Rivers State. Every true Nigerian will agree with me that President Buharis emergence and subsequent re-election is the best thing that has ever happened to Nigeria. Many Nigerians have expressed shock after Nollywood Actress and producer Etinosa Idemudia went totally unclad on Mc Galaxys Instagram L... So that Etinosa Girl deliberately did what she did. Why is Mc Galaxy blamed? pic.twitter.com/QbOO4J9g4V March 16, 2019 In support for Etinosa who went completely naked on MC Galaxy's Instagram Live yesterday under the influence of alcohol,let all ladies go naked on their timelines by 9pm tonight.Retweet people....WOMAN POWER!!! https://t.co/I1zcDpghMi March 16, 2019 Imagine ppl saying the reason why Etinosa misbehaved in her video is Cos she was drunk, and it's this same people that said when u are drunk u tend to say or do what u have in mind. The fact remains that the lady is useless. Pls don't go about shifting blames for her stupidity. Al Mustapha (@Mmrock2016) March 16, 2019 etinosa "acted" drunk, all her actions were premeditated. For Galaxy - no words Olabisi (@Naasmart) March 16, 2019 Etinosa is not bothered , shes comfortable with Expressing her body . But Guess whos bothered? Twitter headmistress and headmasters.RUBBISH FavoGRAPHer-drone pilot (@_wildone1) March 16, 2019 Etinosa is not bothered , shes comfortable with Expressing her body . But Guess whos bothered? Twitter headmistress and headmasters.RUBBISH FavoGRAPHer-drone pilot (@_wildone1) March 16, 2019 MC Galaxy is stupid, but she wasn't asked to join the stupidity. MC Galaxy's matter should be separated from Etinosa's Intention to go nude on live video, she wasn't forced, she wasn't under any influence. Would you do the same? OONI OF ABUJA (@Deji_OoniAbj) March 16, 2019 Mc Galaxy should've ended the video call to protect her image but even if he didn't he shouldn't be blamed what if it was intentional? Etinosa should be held responsible for harassing Mc Galaxy but this country is filled with shit-brained feminists who're always biased. LeRoy (@NkangLeroy) March 16, 2019 The video is so sad. She sounds very depressed. Funny how he ends the call with 'sorry we lost etinosa' i.e It would have been nice to keep watching but unfortunately network cut it If she wanted to release her nudes, no one stop her but not within means he could control Chizoba Anyaeji (@ChizobaAnyaeji) March 16, 2019 MC Galaxy and Etinosa are both adults and they did what they did. She voluntarily offered her naked body to the viewing public. This is feminism goals. If we can congratulate Mia Khalifa and not judge her, why should we judge an ordinary stripper? Lagos-Delta Hybrid (@Zuronye) March 16, 2019 Imagine if it was Mc Galaxy that was naked on Etinosa IG video, I wonder what twitter will say, Or does this rules only apply for females? Cabron (@AbdulKabir69) March 16, 2019 Instead of people try to connect with Etinosa to be sure she is fine and not harming herself. You are here cursing the man. Putting the blame on him. Grow up! Banji RAFA (@BanjiRAFA) March 16, 2019 Most people dont know that issues like this is what made Kim Kardashian popular and rich, the Etinosa babe should turn this Lemon to Lemonade and become the most sorted actress. Shes obviously very good at acting. Stop blaming MC Galaxy, he was being real. Tyrion (@Kenny_Pharez) March 16, 2019 MC Galaxy should have ended the video call knowing she was drunk and Etinosa being drunk doesn't mean she's not guilty also in the viral video. She should also pay for her action for the part she played drunk or not GOAT (@DatUdiBoy) March 16, 2019 How can you even blame MC galaxy for that video? Its a live video and Etinosa went naked herself, he was even surprised so how is it his fault? He only could have prevented it from going further by ending the video earlier. Otunba|Alhaji ROYZ (@royzkingin) March 16, 2019 Mc Galaxy who came under scrutiny few days back for allegedly asking women to strip off clothes on his Instagram Live for N50,000.However the 'Ogbono crooner' Mc galaxy denied, saying all he asks is for the women to dance, but they ended up going to the extreme.However yesterday night, the Nollywood actress showed up on his live broadcast, and went the limits.also found out that the actress had threatened to strip on LIVE video few days ago, read her comments belowEtinosa Idemudia, the Nollywood actress who few months ago raised an alarm over threat to her life by her man, striped off all her clothes on MC Galaxys Instagram live video last night, with many Nigerians reacting on social mediaRead comments below... Ibikunle Ogunleye, one of the five persons standing trial over last years bank robberies in Offa, Kwara state, has told an Ilorin h... an Ilorin high court that the police deliberately killed Michael Adikwu, suspected mastermind of the attack. Ibikunle Ogunleye, one of the five persons standing trial over last years bank robberies in Offa, Kwara state, has toldan Ilorin high court that the police deliberately killed Michael Adikwu, suspected mastermind of the attack. The robbery led to 33 fatalities, including pregnant women and 12 police officers. Police initially described Adikwu as sectional gang leader when he was declared wanted in connection with the robbery, and was accused of killing 22 persons, mostly at the Offa police station. He was later arrested after still pictures from CCTV were released to the public. Testifying before the court in a trial within trial, Ogunleye claimed an officer simply identified as Vincent killed Adikwu. He said the policeman attached to the police intelligence response team was known as Mr Torture. They brought the late Adikwu to implicate us but when he said he had not met any of us in his life, Mr Torture shot him to death, Ogunleye had said. The police tried to cover up the death of Adikwu, a dismissed policeman. A police source had said Adikwu who confessed to have killed several policemen as a revenge for his unfair dismissal was shot dead in the presence of the other suspects in order to coerce confessions from them. But Jimoh Moshood who was then force public relations officer, had dismissed the report, saying Adikwu was in custody. Michael Adikwu is in police custody. You know he is the one that led the killing of 22 people. So the fire arms that were carted away, he is helping the police in investigation to recover themthere is a state in the south-west where they kept him I cant mention the state. He is in one of the south-west states, he had said. When told that a source confirmed Adikwu was killed in custody, the police spokesman said Who killed him? There is nothing like that we will parade him soon. WHO IS MICHAEL ADIKWU? According to information earlier released by the police, Micheal Adikwu, is a native of Apa LGA Benue state, a dismissed police CPL (corporal) who was arrested, tried and dismissed from the force and charged to court by the police in 2012 in Kwara state for criminal conspiracy and aiding the escape from lawful custody of armed robbery suspects. He served three years in prison and subsequently found his way out in 2015. He became a vicious and notorious gang leader of armed robbery syndicate wanted for several armed robberies in Kwara and other states of the north-central and south-west. He confirmed being dismissed in an interview with Daily Trust Saturday. I was formerly working with the Kwara State Police Command, Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS). I was dismissed for allowing detained suspected armed robbers to walk. It was not my fault, it was a gang-up against me, he said. Go and ask, I was one of the finest policemen at SARS, Kwara State Command. I undertake most of the difficult tasks. But for just one mistake which was not my fault, I got kicked out of the force. I was not given fair-hearing, so I now hate everything about the police. The killing of the policemen was not a mistake, but quite deliberate. I see them as all the same. He said it took him about three weeks to plan the Offa heist. Adikwu said as a resident, he knew Offa like the back of his hand. Describing how he met other gang leaders, he said: I got to know a good number of them while I was working in SARS. Initially, they were a little afraid, but I was able to sway their minds. After the meetings, we took a tour round the bank during which were able to identify the security points, which were very loose. The next step was getting enough guns and ammunition, so we put together guns belonging to various gangs. He said he suggested smoking bank security out of their post with tear gas. We arrived the bank very early on the day of the operation with each person manning his own area. We agreed that only five of us drawn from the various gangs will enter the banking hall, he said. Belatedly following the lead of more than 30 other countries, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has ordered the immediate grounding of the entire Max series of Boeing jetliners. The action to halt all flights of the new planes in American airspace is a quick and sudden reversal of the stance taken by the manufacturer, the U.S. airlines flying them and the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump that there was no reason to order a grounding despite fatal nose-dive crashes of the Max planes in Indonesia and Ethiopia. "I didn't want to take any chances," Trump replied when asked by reporters in the White House Roosevelt Room after he announced Wednesday afternoon that all the newer 737 variants would stop flying temporarily. "We just felt it was the right thing to do." The action was "a very tough decision from the standpoint of a company of Boeing," added Trump, contending that while he could have further delayed the decision, "I felt it was important both psychologically and in a lot of ways." The president cited "new information and physical evidence that we've received from the site and from other locations and through a couple of other complaints." Trump predicted Boeing will solve the problem: "Hopefully, they will very quickly come up with the answer. But until they do, the planes are grounded." The aircraft manufacturer, shortly after the president concluded his remarks, issued a statement saying while it continues to have full confidence in the safety of its 737 Max series, it has determined, after consultation with the FAA, the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board and aviation authorities, and customers around the world that "out of an abundance of caution and in order to reassure the flying public of the aircraft's safety," it recommended a temporary suspension of operations of the entire global fleet, which totals nearly 400 planes. Several U.S. carriers utilize the Max series: Southwest Airlines has 34 Max 8 planes in service; American Airlines has 24 and United Airlines has 14 planes of the slightly-larger Max 9 version. Together those aircraft account for nearly 300 daily flights. "We are doing everything we can to understand the cause of the accidents in partnership with the investigators, deploy safety enhancements, and help ensure this does not happen again," said Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg. The FAA, in its statement, said the decision to ground the jets was made as a result of additional data gathered, as well as new evidence collected at the site and analyzed on Tuesday. "This evidence, together with newly refined satellite data available to FAA this morning, led to this decision," according to the agency. Canada, earlier Wednesday, temporarily banned flights of all Max 8 aircraft, which has crashed twice in fewer than five months, killing nearly 350 people. That decision was made after receiving new satellite data that showed a possible similarity to the Ethiopian crash, Canadian Transport Minister Marc Garneau told reporters in Ottawa. Canada's action followed confirmation that the pilot of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 reported internal control problems, while pilots in the U.S. filed at least five complaints in recent months about the aircraft model. Some of the anonymous complaints appear to involve the same anti-stall system, according to the FAA database. Ethiopian Airlines spokesman Asrat Begashaw said the pilot asked to return to Addis Ababa, where the flight had departed. "In fact, he was allowed to turn back," Begashaw told the Reuters news agency. Muilenburg confirmed the pilot's problems in interviews with The Wall Street Journal and CNN. The Trump administration had continued to resist growing domestic and international calls to ground the 737 Max 8, even as Trump discussed the issue Tuesday in a phone call with Muilenburg. The Boeing executive reassured Trump the aircraft is safe, the company and White House officials confirmed. Muilenburg called Trump after the president complained Tuesday on Twitter that planes "are becoming far too complex to fly." The call was in the process of being scheduled prior to Tuesday. The two men have developed a relationship since Trump was elected. The United States said it will deny visas to any individual involved in initiating investigations or prosecutions against U.S. personnel... The United States said it will deny visas to any individual involved in initiating investigations or prosecutions against U.S. personnel at the International Criminal Court (ICC), Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo announced on Friday. Pompeo said that the goal of the new policy, already being implemented, is to have the ICC change course with regards to the U.S. and its allies, especially Israel, NAN reports Further measures, including economic sanctions, could follow, Pompeo warned. He appeared to be referring in particular to requests for investigations with regards to U.S. military actions in Afghanistan. The ICC is attacking Americas rule of law, Pompeo said, adding that it is not too late to change course and we urge it to do so immediately. Pompeo described the ICC as an organisation that has broad, unaccountable powers. The U.S. top diplomat did not disclose how many people are being affected by the new U.S. sanctions. James Goldston, the executive director of Open Society Justice Initiative, said the new sanctions would undermine efforts to hold to account those responsible for the worst war crimes. Secretary Pompeos remarks reflect this Administrations view that international law matters only when it is aligned with U.S. national interests. But thats not how law works, he said on Twitter. The ICC came into being in 2002 with over 120 members, including most European nations. At least 49 people were killed and more than 20 seriously wounded Friday in shootings at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. Three men and one woman are in custody. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said none of them were on security watch lists. A 28-year old man has been charged with murder. He is expected to appear in court Saturday, according to Police Commissioner Mike Bush. While Bush refused to name the person who has been charged, Television New Zealand (TVNZ) has identified the gunman as Brenton Tarrant from Grafton, New South Wales, Australia. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison confirmed the man who was charged is an Australian citizen, and he described the suspect as an "extremist right-wing violent terrorist." The two mosques were attacked during Friday prayers attended by hundreds of worshippers. Assault Live Streamed The chief suspect live-streamed the assault on Facebook from a head-mounted camera, and the footage showed how victims were killed inside one of the mosques. Social media sites were asked to remove the horrific footage. The shooter broadcast the 17-minute live footage after publishing a 74-page white nationalist manifesto in which he denounced Muslims and called immigrants "invaders." The document states he was influenced by violent acts committed by other right-wing extremists including American Dylann Roof, who murdered nine black people in a Charleston, South Carolina, church in 2015. The manifesto is full of conspiracy theories about matters such as "white genocide," the most recent indication that the white nationalist movement and ideology has expanded globally. He said he chose New Zealand to show that even the most remote parts of the world were not immune to "mass immigration." The document was posted on Twitter and 8chan, a website known for extremist right-wing discourse. Forty-one of those killed were at one mosque and children are among the 48 people being treated for gunshot wounds, officials said. Dozens of others were wounded. Commissioner Bush said part of the investigation will be "to look back at every possibility to ensure that we, in law enforcement and security, didn't miss any opportunities to prevent this horrendous event." Bush said a "record number of firearms" was recovered at both mosques. The New Zealand military also defused explosive devices attached to a car. The United States, in coordination with the European Union and Canada, Friday slapped new sanctions on more than a dozen officials and businesses in response to Russia's "continued aggression in Ukraine." Six Russian officials, six defense firms and two energy and construction firms were targeted, either over the seizure of Ukrainian vessels in the Kerch Straight, or for their activities in Russian-annexed Crimea or separatist eastern Ukraine, a U.S. Treasury statement said. "The United States and our transatlantic partners will not allow Russia's continued aggression against Ukraine to go unchecked," Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin was quoted as saying. The U.S. sanctions freeze all property and interests in property belonging to the designated individuals and entities, and prohibit U.S. persons from transacting with them. North Korea says Pyongyang has no intention of giving in to Washington's demands and Kim Jong-un would be making a statement soon on the possibility of further talks. Reports also indicate Kim may reconsider ending the more than yearlong ban on missile tests that have been in place. In a report from the Associated Press, Vice Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui, who briefed reporters and diplomats in Pyongyang Friday, said Washington threw away a golden opportunity when Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump failed to reach a deal during their second summit, held in Hanoi in late February. President Trump said he walked away from the negotiating table because of different positions on what would be required for North Korea to receive sanction relief. Trump said during a press conference that Pyongyang requested all sanctions be lifted in exchange for its continued moratorium on missile and nuclear tests, as well as the decommissioning of its Yongbyon test facility. North Korea claimed it had only requested a partial lifting of the sanctions. The Associated Press also reported Choe claimed, "Personal relations between the two supreme leaders are still good and the chemistry is mysteriously wonderful." In a statement, the South Korean presidential office said, "It is not reliable to judge the current situation only by remarks of Choe Son-hui. We closely monitor the situation. The government will put every effort to resume the North Korean-U.S. talks." Threats of More Sanctions Earlier this week, Moon Chung-in, South Korean special adviser to the president for foreign affairs and national security, told reporters that increasing sanctions wasn't an appropriate course of action if North Korea didn't denuclearize. Moon's remark was in response to a statement by U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton on Fox Business Network last week. "They're not going to get relief from the crushing economic sanctions that have been imposed on them. We'll look at ramping those sanctions up in fact," Bolton said. "It is undesirable for the U.S. to impose additional sanctions if North Korea has not made an explicit provocation," Moon said, "Extra sanction requires supporting reasons to justify, and without legit cause, it will prevent from two side talking." Moon urged Pyongyang and Washington to continue their dialog and make "likely proposals" to facilitate denuclearization. In addition, Moon said, "The role of South Korea in this situation, or the role of President Moon [Jae-in] is not a mediator but facilitator, because a mediator should be an interest-free party, but South Korea is also involved in this problem." The 74-page manifesto and Facebook livestream that Brenton Tarrant the 28-year-old gunman accused of murdering 49 people at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand today used to discuss and document his crimes are a trollish and irony-soaked catalogue of the far-right online. Tarrant's manifesto, according to The New York Times, was posted on 8chan, an extremist website named for its radical views in comparison 4chan, prior to the shooting. It ended with the statement: "Well lads, it's time to stop shitposting and time to make a real life effort post." In a self-administered Q&A in the manifesto, Tarrant weaved in obscure memes alongside violent white nationalist and Islamophobic declarations, according to the Times and New York Magazine. He referenced Donald Trump, conservative pundit Candace Owens (both of whom have condemned the crime), the meme "Navy Seal" copypasta (a several paragraph fake rant in the persona of a military officer), Spyro the Dragon and Fortnite, among other obscure alt-right memes. He's unsettlingly ironic and self-aware in the passages being reported on, repeatedly mocking the "redpill" narrative that the manifesto reflects. It'll shock few that the shooter was active in the "chan" world or identifies with Donald Trump. The conversation around the mass shooting has quickly become about the online world of extremist right-wing hatred, and patterns of radicalization. Comparisons have been drawn between Tarrant and Robert Bowers, who carried out the Pittsburgh synagogue massacre after being radicalized on alt-right website Gab. However, the trail of evidence of Tarrant's motivations is difficult to understand, because he appears to have left it intentionally. Robert Evans, a journalist who covers terrorism, writes: "This manifesto is a trap... laid for journalists searching for the meaning behind this horrific crime. There is truth in there, and valuable clues to the shooter's radicalization, but it is buried beneath a great deal of, for lack of a better word, 'shitposting.'" The Atlantic's Taylor Lorenz argues that while Tarrant's racism and affiliation with people like Owens, Trump and the alt-right online may be sincere, he also name dropped these right-wing boogiemen as a way of deepening political divides. One of the most puzzling examples of Tarrant's trolling, is the moment on his livestream when he name-dropped the most popular YouTuber in the world, saying to the camera "Remember lads, subscribe to PewDiePie." PewDiePie is Felix Kjellberg, or PewDiePie, a 29-year-old Swedish YouTube vlogger with 90 million followers often called "The King of YouTube." The YouTuber isn't exactly a hero with the alt-right but has a history of using racist humor and "flirting with alt-right beliefs" according to Vox. He's been called out for paying two men in India using the site Fiverr to hold up a sign that said "death to all Jews," praising the neo-nazi account E.R (which gained 35,000 new followers after his shout-out), using racial slurs and making Nazi salutes. Kjellberg has said that these instances were accidents jokes gone awry or exaggerated. As reports of the shooting came in, Kjellberg quickly disavowed the shooter on Twitter, saying he's "sickened" and offering his condolences to victims. Tarrant's motivation for calling out PewDiePie is as confusing as the rest of his manifesto. While there's a valid debate about how PewDiePie has contributed to the culture that Tarrant, ironically or not, was a part of there's general consensus online that the phrase wasn't meant as a literal or straightforward fan shout-out, but rather a way of making his crime "go viral." The "Remember Lads" phrase, according to Rolling Stone, was started by PewDiePie fans during a battle over the top spot on YouTube between the Swedish commentator and Bollywood entertainment company T-Series. Reportedly, there were racial tensions to this battle, which pitted the "self-made" and "old-school" white vlogger, against a foreign entity trying to take over. But since then, it's taken on a life of its own, divorced (as much as it can be) from the YouTuber, that can be decoded in different ways. In this vein, Verge reporter Julia Alexander argued that "Remember Lads" has become a rallying cry for the folks occupying far-right internet spaces, divorced (as much as it can be) from the YouTuber. The New York Times' Kevin Roose identifies the phrase as a general nod to "extreme onlineness," writing that it "has morphed into a kind of all-purpose cultural bat signal for the young and internet-absorbed." He argues that Tarrant's fundamental intent with the statement was political polarization and virality: "The goal, if there was one, may have been to pull a popular internet figure into a fractious blame game and inflame political tensions everywhere." The fact that Tarrant used cultural figures like Owens, Trump and PewDiePie strategically, doesn't exonerate them for their potential complicity in the online culture that emboldened his horrific violence. However, it seems crucial that his strategy doesn't work: that he isn't successful in turning conversations around structural issues: Islamaphobia, white supremacy gun violence, online extremist radicalization into debates about individual culpability and political warfare. Young as they are, 21-year-old performer, DJ, and organizer Pauli Cakes is already a NYC nightlife vet which means that, unfortunately, they know its systemic problems very well. Harassment and violence, especially for marginalized identities, is too often going unchecked, they say, and the issue is so pervasive, it's almost normalized. "I've experienced a lot of crazy shit during my gigs, and I know I'm not the only one who experiences it," they say. "There's a lot of people who miss out on the beauty of going out and dancing because they have the anxiety of being assaulted and being targeted. Trans and queer identify people, POC the anxiety that comes with wow, what if I get harassed, and no one's going to give a shit?" At first, they considered making a public list outing problematic, abusive people. But instead Pauli Cakes is spearheading an effort for systemic change: They've launched a collaborative Google doc of resources for creating safer nightlife spaces. It was, in part, through the creation of DisCakes, Pauli Cakes and She Marley Marl's new platform for radical love and self-expression, that the idea for the doc came about. One of DisCake's initiatives is party organizing; they realized the safety protocol they'd begun mapping out could be widely applicable. "There needs to be a common core conduct, for both DIY venues and established venues, to look over while hiring staff and while throwing parties," Pauli Cakes says. "That's more than just, 'Oh, we're going to have an inclusive space, our space is inclusive' Because a lot of spaces use that as a buzzword." Pauli Cakes recalls an event last year at a self-designated queer Brooklyn club where, when cishet men bombarded the stage and made them uncomfortable, staff refused to designate organizers with wristbands to avoid further issues. In a more recent incident at another venue, bouncers followed Pauli Cakes and She Marley Marl into the bathroom, "and were peeking into the stalls and grabbing our arms." Later, after finishing their DJ set, "I went outside and one of the bouncers came to me and was like, 'You know your nipples are out, right? I should give you a ticket for indecent exposure.'" Again, Pauli Cakes says, staff at the venue, which purports to be "inclusive," would not help. "We can't feel safe in our bodies in the daytime, and we can't feel safe in our bodies at these clubs that are literally profiting off of us," they say. "It's becoming a really common thing in New York and in corporate nightlife spaces, and it's dangerous." "There's a lot of people who miss out on the beauty of going out and dancing because they have the anxiety of being assaulted and being targeted." The doc compiled by Pauli Cakes and collaborator Sermon 3, who lends to the effort extensive nightlife experience as a curator, host, and bouncer, includes guidelines for safer spaces, harm reduction and fire safety practices for DIY spaces, resources for reducing sexual assault and harassment, and a rundown of expectations for staff and security personnel. The doc will only grow from here, and Pauli Cakes hopes for more perspectives to be included: Owners of DIY spaces, security workers, bathroom attendants (who Pauli Cakes notes are "disrespected so heavily and excluded from the conversation"), artists, and partygoers. "I would love for this to be intersectional and multifaceted, because nightlife is intersectional and multifaceted space," they say. Anyone is free to add tips for improving conditions at clubs that, as the doc notes, "are grounds for assault, sexual harassment, patriarchal flexing, and blatant disrespect." In particular, however, they want to hear from marginalized folks, as they are disproportionately affected. Eventually, the information could be condensed and translated to zine format to then be passed out at clubs. And while it does single out NYC nightlife, the resources they're gathering could be applied to clubs and venues all over the world. Corporate clubs, Pauli Cakes says, "drink from our fountain," profiting off queer people without taking effort to ensure safer experiences. They often also exploit them by handpicking elements of queer culture for promotion (Pauli Cakes notes the requirement at one club that you pay to be "glittered" before entering), without actively uplifting queer artists, performers, and organizers. "This is really a reclamation after experiencing years and years and years of bullshit in nightlife," Pauli Cakes says. "Nightlife is a place where we can express ourselves freely, and people see that as an excuse to harass me and harass my friends. It's really beautiful to be able to reclaim that and take back these spaces that are taken from us by oppressive powers, and say, 'You know what? Fuck you. We're going to make these spaces about us again.'" Check out the Securing Nightspace Info Exchange doc, and head to Instagram for details on the second DisCakes party, happening tonight in Brooklyn. News and commentary on organized crime, street crime, white collar crime, cyber crime, sex crime, crime fiction, crime prevention, espionage and terrorism. Audio Attachment: Listen to the leaked tape of Samuel Ofosu Ampofo National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Mr. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, has been officially charged by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service. Speaking in a telephone interview with Peacefmonline.com, Public Relations Officer for the Police CID, DSP Juliana Obeng, disclosed two other executives of the opposition party, Mr. Sammy Gyamfi and Mr. Kwaku Boahen, National Communications Officer and Deputy Communications Officer, respectively, have also been charged by the police. "They have all been charged with conspiracy to commit crime with kidnapping intent and conspiracy to commit crime with threat of harm," she said. Consequently, she added, the duo have been asked to "cease" reporting themselves to the CID headquarters. The Police CID, it would be recalled, extended a formal invitation to the NDC National Chairman to assist with investigations in a leaked audio that captures him allegedly conspiring with party members to harm political opponents and also inciting supporters to attack certain officials including the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission. The police have said some of Ofosu Ampofos comments have implications on national security. "Fake, Doctored & Illegal Espionage" Already, the NDC has said the tape is "doctored" and "fake". The opposition party's initial comments were that its offices had been bugged following the circulation of the recordings and accused the government of engaging in illegal espionage. Sammy Gyamfi, told Neat FM's Akwasi Aboagye, in an interview on the Ghana Montie Morning Show, in the last week of February, that the NPP with the help of state security have planted secret recording devices in some offices at their head office to monitor their proceedings. This is against the law. This is undemocratic, he said. 4 Charges Samuel Ofosu Ampofo was initially slapped with four charges over the explosive audio recording. He was facing charges of "threat of harm, conspiracy to commit harm, rioting and assaulting a public officer". Background A leaked audio purported to be the voice of the NDCs National Chairman, caused shock waves among the public after it went viral nearly a month ago. The leaked tape which is believed to be from a meeting held at the NDCs headquarters days after the infamous Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election violence, captures leading members of the opposition party allegedly planning strategies the NDC will use to regain power in 2020. Mr. Ofosu-Ampofo, who could be heard speaking to some party members without equivocation, noted the NDC will target lives of NPP members in 2020 since state security cannot protect them. According to him, another delicate aspect to win the 2020 election is targeting the EC Chairperson, Madam Jean Mensa. We must wage a relentless war on this EC Chair, me she doesnt want to see my face . . . he told the party gathering. Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Ghana Police Service has cautioned the Member of Parliament for Assin Central constituency, Kennedy Agyapong to stop intimidating officers who are doing their constitutionally mandated duty. This follows a clash between the MP and a police officer at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) when both parties were trying to calm tensions in the school on Thursday, March 14.2019. In a video gone viral on social media, the maverick MP was seen and heard intimidating and reportedly threatening to have a police officer dismissed. In a press statement signed by ACP David Eklu, head of Public Affairs, the Service took very strong exception to the behaviour of Kennedy Agyapong.According to the statement, "the Police Administration has also taken note of the fact that the Central Regional Police Commander who was at the spot instantly told Mr. Kennedy Agyapong he had no powers to dismiss any Police Officer performing his or her lawful duties. The Police Administration, therefore, wishes to affirm the stance of the Central Regional Police Commander that, nobody wields the authority to cause the dismissal of a Police Officer without lawful justification and due process"."The Police Administration, therefore, takes very strong exception to the behavior of Mr. Kennedy Agyapong who is a Member of Parliament and advises him to be mindful of his actions towards Police Officers whilst performing their lawful duties". Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video 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 This year Sacramento presents another spring season full of ideas for homeowners associations some bad, some good, and some well-intentioned but needing revision. Senate Bill 323 is a recycle of last years SB 1265, a bill vetoed by Gov. Jerry Brown in September 2018. SB323 would add burdensome new elements to the HOA election process and dictate to HOAs who could or could not serve as directors. The bill is as bad an idea this year as it was last year. As Gov. Brown wrote while vetoing its predecessor, SB323 takes a once-size-fits-all approach, but not all homeowner associations are alike. If changes to an election process are needed, they should be resolved by the members of that specific community. Associations should set their board eligibility standards, not Sacramento. SB652 addresses the conflict between architectural conformity and religious observance. Does a Jewish mezuzah or Christian cross violate rules banning alteration of doorways? SB652 would add a new Civil Code 4706, prohibiting associations from limiting or prohibiting display of religious items on entry doors of a members residence. There is no limitation on size, number, or appearance of doorway decorations, as long as they are religious. Perhaps some reasonable limit could be stated. Coauthored by 16 legislators, it awaits committee assignment. SB434, authored by Sen. Bob Archuleta of southeastern L.A. County, proposes to add a new Civil Code 5382. The proposed statute would require managing agents to produce the associations records and property (manuals, transponders and keys, for example) within a certain time after termination and/or association request. Managers could not hold association records hostage, if, for example, they claimed the HOA owed them money. There is no penalty for non-compliance, and managers would not be required to produce email correspondence unless it had previously been given to the association. The bill is a good idea but should include correspondence as part of the HOAs records. The bill has been assigned to the Judiciary and Housing committees for hearing. Advertisement SB754, authored by Sen. John Moorlach of Orange County, would make technical amendments to Civil Code 4230. Section 4230 currently allows association boards after 30 days notice to the membership to delete CC&R provisions which relate only to developer marketing or completion of the project. SB754 would increase the required notice to 60 days and also allow deletion of provisions solely related to the developers planning of the project. The bill awaits committee assignment. SB222 proposes to add a new protected class, veteran or military status, to Californias anti-discrimination laws by amending several Government Code Sections. Authored by Sen. Jerry Hill of the San Francisco area, it awaits hearing in the Judiciary Committee. Assembly Bill 446 would if adopted add a new protected class, domestic violence victim status, to Californias anti-discrimination statutes. However, the bill does not define domestic violence victim status. Civil Code 1946.7 allows domestic violence victims to break their leases, and perhaps that statute might somehow lead to a definition, to avoid a vague and therefore less helpful statute. Authored by Assembly member Steven Choi of Irvine, it is pending hearing by the Housing and Community Development Committee. To review legislation or laws, or contact a bills author or your representative about proposed new HOA laws, the official California Legislature web site is www.leginfo.legislature.ca.gov. Kelly G. Richardson CCAL is a Fellow of the College of Community Association Lawyers and Senior Partner of Richardson Ober PC, a California law firm known for community association advice. Send questions to Kelly@richardsonober.com. Past columns at www.HOAHomefront.com. The new owner of Horton Plaza is embroiled in a legal tussle with a small-business owner who exited the downtown shopping center late last year and millions are at stake. The parties are real estate investment firm Stockdale Capital Partners and Burgerim franchise owner Irwantio, Inc. They are suing each other in San Diegos Superior Court over the terms of a broken lease, with both sides alleging the other is at fault. Stockale, which last year purchased the 900,000 square-foot retail center and also operates the city-owned Horton Plaza park next door, lodged the first complaint on Jan. 30. It filed suit against Irwantio for illegally terminating its 10-year lease at a standalone pavilion in the park. Friday, the business owner countered in a newly filed complaint that it was duped into signing its lease, and that the past and present operators failed to run the property according to the standards spelled out in the agreement. The franchise owner is asking for a minimum of $1 million in damages, while Stockdale claims to be owed the balance of the lease term (or rent through August 2027). Advertisement The legal battle is taking place as the once acclaimed Horton Plaza mall, which first opened in 1985, prepares for its second act as a fancy office park. Stockdale purchased the downtown property in August for $175 million with the stated plan to reuse most of the retail center for a modern employment hub. That plan is on hold, however, until the city signs off on a new agreement that would allow for more office space on the site. As it stands, the Horton Plaza Owner Participation Agreement requires a minimum of 600,000 square feet of retail on the site. In the interim, the urban mall has turned into a retail ghost town with most tenants leaving as their leases expire. In January, the United Artists theater closed its doors after a 33-year run. It was followed soon after by the shuttering of Claires accessories. That leaves just a small collection of businesses still open at the site, including Macys, Jimbos and 24 Hour Fitness. Burger joint Burgerim operated out of a standalone pavilion created during the renovation of Horton Plaza park. (Courtesy/CoStar) Burgerim, meanwhile, shut up shop at Horton Plaza after just 13 months in business. The fast-casual burger franchisee, owned by Djulianto Irwantio and Lena Lazuardi, signed its lease in May 2017, opened in November of that year and closed in December of the following year. It temporarily took over a 1,500 square-foot kiosk in Horton Plaza park built as part of the city of San Diegos $18 million investment in, and expansion of, the park. Under terms of the aforementioned owner participation agreement, Stockdale is required to operate, maintain and program the city-owned park. But in court documents, the Burgerim proprietor claims to have been duped by previous mall-owner Westfield into signing its lease. The business says it was led to believe that the outdoor shopping center would be revitalized, that the park would programmed with a number of events and that its venue was in a desirable location. Instead, Irwantio alleges that it got a space adjacent to public bathrooms where the homeless bathe and that mall operators turned a blind eye to security incidents. Conditions have progressively worsened, such that, before (Irwantio, Inc.) was forced to exit the space, (the business) faced daily issues with homeless individuals. These conditions created an unwelcome environment for both customers and employees, the suit states. Stockdale Capital Partners declined a request to participate in this story, but court documents highlight a different version of events. The firm, in its complaint, argues that Irwantio stopped paying rent in November 2018, did not respond to multiple notices and illegally abandoned its restaurant venue. Its suing the Irwantio business and Oren Loni, who is listed as a guarantor, for breach of lease and rent owed. A copy of the lease shows that Irwantio agreed to pay minimum rent starting at $112,000 per year and going up to $151,607.52 per year in 2027 increasing on an annual basis along with a percentage of gross sales, depending on business. Stockdale did not say how much in total its owed. Separately, the real estate investment firm is being sued for similar reasons by specialty grocer Jimbos Naturally, which has been a tenant at Horton Plaza since 2012. The local company first filed suit against Westfield last May for breach of contract and amended its complaint earlier this year to include Stockdale. Business jennifer.vangrove@sduniontribune.com (619) 293-1840 Twitter: @jbruin The need to devise a plan to sell my wife on the fun of a spring break vacation should have been the first clue that this was not one of my better ideas. Kati, its been a wet, cold winter, and I think we should get away for a little spring vacation, I boldly declared. I could see the sparkling gleam in her eyes. Thats a great idea. Are you thinking of exotic birding and the beautiful beaches of Costa Rica, or maybe wreck diving in Florida, or wildlife photography in the Galapagos? she asked. Advertisement Not exactly. My plan would let us see one of the true great wonders of nature, I said, trying to stoke her enthusiasm. I could see her wheels turning as she envisioned the tropical rainforests of Belize, colorful wild parrots in the jungles of Brazil or perhaps manatees in the clear, warm waters of Florida. It was time to spill the beans. Ive booked a trip to the Arctic to photograph the northern lights, I said. The gleam in her eyes changed to an icy stare. But honey, as a photographic artist, just imagine the possibilities. The aurora at night and the unique daytime beauty of the ice-clad forests should really inspire you, I said, offering my best sales pitch. I was born in Canada, she said. Ive had all the inspiration I need. She was also quick to point out that I am not fond of cold. Thats very true. As a Florida native and mostly lifelong California resident, I could be the modern version of Sam McGee, that character of Robert Service poetry who wanted to be cremated upon his death because he could not stand the Arctic cold during the Klondike gold rush of the 1890s. My wife reminded me that I whine when temperatures get into the 50s. How do you plan to survive in Alaska this time of the year? Youre cold in Borrego on a summer night, she said. I hadnt anticipated a tough question. An icy stare was out of the question. Eventually my powers of persuasion won her over, and she agreed to go. As we began our journey, the flight attendant made the usual announcements ending with the advisory that passengers should notify the crew if they noticed any disturbing behavior. Id like to report that my wife keeps complaining about going to Alaska for spring break vacation. Can you do anything about that? I asked. I cant help you with that, sir, but you do realize Alaska flies to Cabo, the flight attendant said with another icy stare. I had done my homework. March is the best time to see the northern lights. Generally clear spring weather ensures crystal skies, and aurora activity seems to peak around the vernal equinox. The weather in Fairbanks when we arrived was not favorable for aurora viewing. For Californians, the 18 degrees was a shock, but the cloudy weather at least gave us time to do some of the tourist things like sled dog tours, ice fishing, and hikes through the spectacular winter forest that included an encounter with a moose. Finally conditions improved for a night out to see the northern lights. We followed the North Star from Fairbanks many miles until arriving at a frozen lake surrounded by the boreal forest. We were prepared for the 12-degree temperatures. In this great white wilderness the heavens began to dance above us. I can see why some native cultures refer to the aurora as the Happy Dancers. The beauty was overpowering. There is movement and color and a silence almost deafening. For me it was an event of human perspective. A beautiful message of just how small we are in the grandeur of the universe. Even Kati hugged me tightly and whispered, I am so happy to be experiencing this with you. Boarding the plane for our flight home, Kati did turn to me to say it had been a fun trip. But you still owe me a summer vacation, she said. I totally agree. Ive already started planning our next trip. Ive always wanted to photograph penguins and, besides, December is mid-summer in Antarctica. Email ernie@packtrain.com or visit erniesoutdoors.blogspot.com. Permits for a 48-home subdivision next to Batiquitos Lagoon won approval from the citys Planning Commission Thursday, a month after commissioners delayed a decision saying they needed more time to read the applicants hefty paperwork pile. Some 3,500 pages of environmental reports and other project-related documents had been submitted to the city by representatives for the Weston family, the owners of the nearly 14-acre, former nursery property along La Costa Avenue just west of Interstate 5. On Thursday, commissioners said they had steadily worked their way through the paperwork and had some questions, but ultimately supported the subdivision plans. Commissioners Bruce Ehlers and Glenn OGrady both said they thought the future housing development could provide environmental benefits because the stormwater that now rushes across the propertys surface into the lagoon would be contained and processed as part of the project. Advertisement Not only does it in essence treat it, it slows it down, too, OGrady said. Ehlers said he also liked the fact that the plans called for many single-story homes along La Costa Avenue, rather than going for mostly two-story homes. One limitation he wanted placed on the project was that it never be allowed to have a gated entrance on La Costa -- something that OGrady said wasnt possible any way because the city isnt currently allowing developers to build gated housing developments. Commissioner Brett Farrow, an architect, said he hoped there would be lots of variety in the future homes, noting that the surrounding Leucadia area has an eclectic mix of housing. He said he didnt oppose the subdivision plans, but said he wished the property owners had been required by the city to do habitat restoration work and build a trail segment. Its a missed opportunity, he said. City staff members said the landowners werent being required to do habitat restoration because the site doesnt contain any native habitat and theyre also not being required to build a public trail segment because theres no trail to connect to in the area. David Meyer, a development consultant for the Weston family, told commissioners that while the property owners werent required to build a trail segment, their plans do call for a lagoon view overlook that will be open to the public. Development plans for the site have been controversial because of the propertys lagoon-side location and because the project is taking advantage of a state density bonus law allowing it to put more homes than would normally be allowed in exchange for setting aside some of them for low-income people. Four of the 48 homes will be set aside for low-income residents. A new point of contention was added to the mix Thursday when several project opponents learned they wouldnt be able to voice their opposition to the commissioners. At the meetings start, OGrady, the commissions chairman, told the audience that the commissioners collected public comments during last months meeting and then closed the comment period. He said that the boards attorney had informed him that it wouldnt be legal to now reopen the public comment period and allow speakers to come forward because the advertisement for Thursday meeting indicated public comment wouldnt occur. Several opponents told him that wasnt fair, and one said she wanted to register her strong disapproval with his announcement. During last months public comment period, five people spoke to the commission and all of them opposed the development plans. Some raised traffic congestion issues; others said wildlife would be harmed and lagoon water contaminated by the project. On Thursday, OGrady said he had heard that there was a rookery with nesting birds near the property and wondered why impacts to it were not addressed in the projects environmental documents. Staff members told him that there were nesting birds in a grove of eucalyptus trees nearby, but those birds were great blue herons, which are not an endangered species. Ollis OJ Mozon, Jr., was already telling stories in his ministry and sermons but didnt get into standalone storytelling performances until a Black History Month program in North Carolina years ago. One of the speakers didnt show up, so Mozon stepped up. I told the librarian, who was the wife of one of my chaplain friends, that I could tell a story or two to entertain the anxious room, the retired Navy chaplain says. Ive been a storyteller ever since. He went on to join the black storytellers association in North Carolina. Since then, he has joined other storyteller organizations, including the Storytellers of San Diego. The San Diego organization is hosting its annual San Diego Storytelling Festival at the Encinitas Library fro 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, where he will be both performing and leading a workshop on the craft. The local festival is part of World Storytelling Day and will include more than two dozen storytellers, from national and international professionals to local griots. Mozon, 65, lives in Oceanside with his wife, Almena, and they have two adult children. Hes currently the director of oral learning and of human resources for a missionary organization, and vice president of Black Storytellers of San Diego, Inc. He took some time to talk about his involvement in this weekends festival and why he enjoys the art of storytelling. Advertisement Q: Why was performing as a storyteller something you wanted to do? A: I like being in front of people. I like giving a meaningful message people can take away with them. Storytelling does that. Q: What qualities are necessary to be a good, oral storyteller? A: First, you need to be able to listen to the stories people tell, what kinds of stories they tell, and how they tell them. Second, I find that it is good to read lots of stories. Even if you are primarily an oral teller, I find it helps me to read and re-read words on a page and imagine how they will sound coming out of my mouth. One other thing I do is watch those who are listening. Observe how they respond to the tone, the pace, the volume and the word pictures you are creating before them. The teller is in community with those who listen. Dont leave them behind. Q: Tell us about the Storytellers of San Diego. A: The Storytellers of San Diego is the most delightful, wackiest group of professional bards I have ever been a part of. We are so different, but are unified by a common passion to tell our stories. The stories come from our families, our heritage, our diverse cultures, and interests. These stories shaped us and need to be shared to heal, entertain, and give hope. Founded in the early 1990s, its a nonprofit organization that promotes oral storytelling and the purpose is to demonstrate and sustain interest in the art of storytelling in San Diego, and to show the many uses for this art form in our community. We are also part of the National Storytelling Network. What I love about Oceanside ... I enjoy walking my dog along the Oceanside Strand. Q: What have you learned from them over the years? A: Many things about cross-cultural storytelling. This year, we put on a six-week storytelling institute. One class was very helpful, about how to integrate folktales with a personal story, and I immediately incorporated those techniques into my performances. Q: Youre participating in the annual San Diego Storytelling Festival at the Encinitas Library today. What can people expect to see if they attend? A: There will be a lot of stories to delight almost every ear, no matter the age, told by professionals and first-timers. There will be stories from many lands and languages, stories told with music and puppets, stories of several themes. There will be workshops to learn how to tell stories, special presentations designed for children, and a special segment for veterans. Also, youll get a great view of the Pacific. Q: Whats your role during the festival? A: I will be the emcee and a teller for one of the afternoon concerts, telling a story about the heroic Big John the Conqueror. I will also be conducting a workshop, Bible Tales More than Stories, where I will be teaching helpful ways to present Bible stories that transform lives. Q: Why did you pick these stories? A: The afternoon concert theme is superheroes and before there was Black Panther or Black Lightning, there was Big John the Conqueror. He was a mythical hero for the enslaved descendants of Africa. Big John was revered for his abilities to outwit Ol Massa or anyone else trying to make life more difficult than it needed to be. The Bible story workshop is an outgrowth of my current ministry. I serve with a missionary organization that trains people around the world to start a church in their village or community. Many people learn better orally, so with the help of translators, I teach Bible stories and lead group discussions so that even in places where they cannot read the Bible, they can listen and learn the stories and discover meaning. As these stories touch the heart, the church community grows. Q: Youre also a member of Black Storytellers of San Diego, Inc.? Tell us about this organization. A: We are an affiliate of the National Association of Black Storytellers and were founded by the late Dr. Annjennette McFarlin in 1999 to establish and maintain a network of individuals and groups to preserve the African diasporas oral tradition. She wanted to ensure that our historic and cultural stories were told professionally and creatively. Q: Aside from a focus on black storytellers and stories, are there other differences between this group and Storytellers of San Diego? A: Fundamentally, both groups do the same things: tell our stories to those who want to hear and know, and tell stories in schools, libraries, churches, and public or private venues. What is distinctive is that Black Storytellers of San Diego maintains a focus on the needs of the black and underserved communities. We are diligent about uplifting and empowering young minorities through our stories. Plus, we want to enlighten the larger community about the richness of what people of African descent have contributed to America and to the world. Physically, when we tell stories, we wear beautiful, African-style attire, often have an African drum accompaniment, and frequently perform as an ensemble, opening with our theme song and doing a readers theater piece in addition to the individual stories. Q: In your opinion, why is having a group specific to black storytellers and stories important? A: Since our educational system and media too often ignore or misrepresent what is happening in the black community, it is healthy to have a group of storytellers (or griots) committed to telling the rest of the story. There is definitely a seasonal appeal for our storytellers, like during Black History Month, Kwanzaa and Juneteenth, but we really want to tell people that we are black and tell stories all year. Q: What is the best advice youve ever received? A: From James 1:19 in the Bible: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to find out about you? A: I like being alone and quiet. Q: Describe your ideal San Diego weekend. A: Going to an event or activity where I can ride the Coaster (commuter rail service) and one, short trolley or bus ride, round-trip. Email: lisa.deaderick@sduniontribune.com Twitter: @lisadeaderick Miracle Babies is a nonprofit organization founded in 2009 by charismatic board-certified obstetrician Dr. Sean Daneshmand and his wife, Marjan. Its mission is to aid families whose babies are in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) because of significantly premature birth and/or critical illness. The Daneshmands own experience with their daughter Natalie born prematurely, but now a healthy 14-year-old helped influence their work to reduce the need for children to be admitted to intensive care, provide help to families whose babies are born with medical complications, and ultimately to improve the health of all children, especially the most vulnerable. In 2014, MBs Miracle Circle Auxiliary was founded, banding together philanthropic and innovative leaders to serve as goodwill ambassadors supporting the work of Miracle Babies through fundraising, community outreach and advocacy. Last year alone, Miracle Circle members helped MB provide $233,000 in financial assistance to 633 families whose babies were in the NICU. They hosted 93 Miracle Hours at which they delivered more than 2,300 Miracle Babies Care Bags, and engaged 4,500 people at numerous education events throughout the community. Denisia Chatfield, Tammy Anderson-Lee, Shelly VanBrabant, Sue Mortazavi, Frieda Alinejad, Neda Safarzadeh (Vincent Andrunas / Photo) Miracle Circle hosts an annual Breakfast at Tiffanys event, most recently held early this month at La Jollas classic La Valencia Hotel and chaired by Elaine Becerra and M.J. Wittman. The basic theme is about looking toward to the future, and the dreams, hopes and plans we all make, propelled by the promise of something better. Sometimes events move us in completely unexpected directions, forcing us to re-evaluate our lives. This is what befalls new parents whose babies must be admitted to the neo-natal intensive care unit, or NICU and where MB comes in, providing much-needed financial and emotional support. Advertisement More than 180 ladies attended, nearly all in iconic little black dresses, pearls, and dark glasses, channeling Audrey Hepburns Holly Golightly character from the famed movie. They sipped champagne and sat for a breakfast (brunch, really) featuring black truffle and leek quiche. Emcee Andrea Naversen Wait introduced Dr. Daneshmand, whose sensitive and emotional account of his work soon evoked sympathetic tears from the guests. Miracle Mom Heather Imeson movingly told how MB helped when her premature son spent 105 days in the NICU (hes quite healthy today). Wendy Walker interviewed Auschwitz survivor Edith Eva Egar, whos now 91 and a clinical psychologist. Their captivating, 30-minute conversation revealed strategies for surviving lifes unexpected hazards, earning a standing ovation. A short video urged guests to become Miracle Circle members, and raffle prizes were awarded. The event netted $60,000 and guests took home little boxes of candies in shades of Tiffany blue. The worshipers sat in rows inside the mosque, the men in the front and women behind. Dozens of believers of other faiths settled in between. Hundreds of Muslims, Jews, Christians and Sikhs gathered at the Islamic Center of Southern California on Friday for prayers, some hoping to find the guidance needed to help make sense of the violence that had killed so many of their fellow faithful nearly 7,000 miles away. The ugliness of what unfolded cannot be missed, Khaled Abou El Fadl told the crowd. They are us. It could have been us. At least 49 people were shot to death at two mosques during midday prayers in Christchurch, New Zealand, on Friday gunned down by a white supremacist who broadcast the massacre live on Facebook. Advertisement The terrorist attack sent ripples of fear throughout the Muslim community in Southern California and led police to ramp up their presence outside mosques. A handful of LAPD officers guarded the Islamic Center during prayers alongside private security and sheriffs deputies. The violence also spawned calls for unity and solidarity with Muslims across the globe. In his khutbah, or sermon, Abou El Fadl decried the growth of Islamophobia as he clutched a copy of the shooters 74-page manifesto. A law professor at UCLA, Abou El Fadl had been invited to speak to Islamic center members during Friday prayers. Islamophobia has taught everyone that we Muslims do not embrace a religion, but rather, an ideology, he said with force. That we love to hate, rather than love to love. Blasting the gunman as an immoral idiot, Abou El Fadl slammed the political environment that has provided a steady drumbeat of hateful language that has made your sons and daughters so uncomfortable in school that they often try to conceal that they are Muslim. Twenty minutes later, his speech gave way to prayer. As the congregants knelt and bowed their heads, they made one final invocation: Janazah, the Islamic funeral prayer, uttered for the souls lost in Christchurch. In a news conference before Jumuah prayers, LAPD Chief Michel Moore, Mayor Eric Garcetti and faith leaders called on communities to stand up against hate. Nearly 100 people packed into the back of the room, some holding signs with messages like We are one scrawled in Hebrew. We are a city that is called the city of angels, and today I feel those wings stretched out, Garcetti said. But our angels weep today as well for our brothers and sisters in New Zealand. The fallout from the violence is about more than one incident it is about a growing threat of white supremacy, said Salam Al-Marayati, founder of the Muslim Public Affairs Council. Imagine if you will that you are ready to bow and kneel for prayer, but instead of receiving the blessings that are showered upon you, you are sprayed with bullets, Al-Marayati said. We finally said it is terrorism, he added. Thats right, the crowd replied. Some nodded. Rabbi Sharon Brous said she stood with all people who have been targeted for their faith, race or ethnicity. We have witnessed as your faith has been mocked and desecrated for political gain, as your bodies and your holy sites have been threatened, she said. Enough is enough. Tears welled in Najeeba Syeeds eyes as she listened. As a mother, she said, her mind immediately went to her children and how to explain the violence. It felt like this whole act was to dehumanize the community, to approach it like we were characters in a video game, Syeed, 45, said. Its important, she said, to ensure children feel comfortable with their identity and proud of who they are. Muslims and people of all faiths come together in prayer at the Islamic Center of Southern California. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) In Long Beach, Mayor Robert Garcia, Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn and other public officials joined the congregation at the citys Islamic Center on Friday afternoon in a similar show of solidarity. Mohammed Alrawi said looking around at the gathered crowd that included people of different faiths and ethnicities was a comforting antidote after reading a racist manifesto the killer is thought to have written. It reaffirmed the hope that we are a nation of love, not one of hate, he said. For some, the attack was less of a surprise and more of an inevitability at a time when mass shootings seem to regularly punctuate the news. I dont want to sound like Im numb, but its not like, Oh, my God, a white nationalist went into a mosque and shot and killed people, said Marc Manley, imam at Middle Ground Muslim Center in Upland. Manley said he felt conflicted about discussing the shooting during Friday prayers, which he uses as a time to lift peoples spirits. You cant really address a complicated issue like this in 20 minutes, he said. Omar Ricci couldnt shake the thought that as the observant in his mosque prepared to pray, they were in the same position as the victims in Christchurch, at the same time of day that they lost their lives. The congregants in Christchurch were seeking spiritual solace the way they did every Friday, Ricci said. They were attacked when they were most vulnerable. The very first texts I got today were, Is there going to be extra security at the mosque? said Ricci, chair of the Islamic Center of Southern California. Were all going through it. With nearly all votes tallied for a pivotal Los Angeles school board seat, Heather Repenning holds second place by 31 votes, a margin that is probably enough to get her into a runoff against Jackie Goldberg, election officials said. The counting period officially ends Wednesday, and there might not be any additional votes. Currently there are no more to count, although 47 voters whom officials have tried to contact could come forward and correct problems that kept their ballots from being tallied. A few missorted ballots also might turn up. But the math is strongly working against Graciela Ortiz, who is just behind Repenning especially because nearly half of all voters chose Goldberg. Repennings campaign declared victory Friday suggesting that she had secured the second spot in the runoff. If Repennings lead holds, Ortiz could challenge the results by paying for a recount. Both the Ortiz and Repenning campaigns have requested and received the small list of voters whose ballots need to be cured before they can be counted, said Alex Olvera, the L.A. County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerks division manager for election information and preparation. Advertisement A special election was held last week to fill the vacant District 5 seat on the seven-member Board of Education. In recent years, the board has been split over key issues, including how best to oversee privately operated charter schools and how to deal with looming financial problems. The board also was divided over the hiring last year of Supt. Austin Beutner. Goldberg finished far ahead of nine other candidates in the March 5 election, claiming more than 48% of the vote. But because she did not win a majority, she has to face the second-place finisher in a May 14 runoff. A longtime teacher, Goldberg previously served eight years on the school board before moving on to the L.A. City Council and the state Legislature. Repenning, a former longtime senior aide to L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti, resigned as a city public works commissioner to run for office. Ortiz is a school counselor and member of the Huntington Park City Council. Huntington Park is within the L.A. school district. howard.blume@latimes.com @howardblume A suspected gunman who caused a panic among shoppers and forced the closure of the Westfield Century City Mall on Friday has been arrested, police said. Nicholas K. Oates, 25, was arrested Saturday night after officers saw him at the Venice Beach boardwalk, Los Angeles police said. He was taken into custody without incident. The handgun he is believed to have used in Fridays incident has not been found, police said. Police released a surveillance camera photo on social media of the suspect early Saturday, which helped in their search, officials said. The flier said he was wanted on suspicion of arson and assault charges and was considered armed and dangerous. Advertisement Arson/Assault With A Deadly Weapon suspect from the Century City Mall incident. Male, possibly Hispanic or Asian, 20-25 years old, 58 to 510, 130-150 lbs. He is to be considered armed & dangerous. If seen, do not approach & call 911. Any info contact Major Crimes 213-486-7260 pic.twitter.com/J6ydu3TsVG LAPD HQ (@LAPDHQ) March 16, 2019 Police responded to initial reports of a man with a gun inside the malls Amazon store about 12:40 p.m., LAPD Officer Jeff Lee said. Chaos broke out as some shoppers ran outside while others sheltered inside stores, some believing there was an active shooter in the mall. Some shoppers who were ordered to shelter in place were allowed to evacuate several hours later. Among those trapped in the mall was former Florida gubernatorial candidate Andrew Gillum. Im in Los Angeles to film an interview with @billmaher tonight, he tweeted. Stopped by the mall to pick something up and a reported active shooter situation ensued. Im currently in a secure location. But officers failed to find the gunman and determined that a suspicious package found in the Amazon store did not contain an explosive. There were reports, however, that the package had been set on fire. An Iraq war veteran convicted of abusing his neighbors dogs including poisoning them and gouging out the eye of a Siberian husky was sentenced Friday to more than nine years in prison. Former Navy corpsman David C. Herbert, 37, was also fined $10,000 for his conviction last year of charges linked to repeated attacks against his neighbors pets. The accusations included burning the flesh of two dogs with acid. Another dog is still missing. Vista Superior Judge Carlos Armour noted that he has worked in the criminal justice system for more than 40 years including handling murder cases then called the dog abuse case particularly shocking. Advertisement This was a planned and sophisticated effort to bring pain and suffering to other people through the suffering of their pets, Armour said. Authorities said Herberts computer showed searches for How to get a dog to drink antifreeze. During his sentencing hearing, Herbert, 37, apologized. I am sorry that any of this happened, Herbert said. God knows I am sorry. Police and prosecutors said Herbert repeatedly targeted his next-door neighbors in early 2017, slashing their tires and hurting their dogs with such acts as dumping a caustic chemical on the animals or feeding them poison. In April of that year, the neighbor and her 4-year-old son came home to find someone had harmed their two huskies. One had had her eye gouged out. The family quickly moved out of the rental house in north Oceanside. A new family moved in. The new tenants, a family of six, had two dogs. Less than 48 hours later, one of the new familys pets a 9-year-old golden retriever named Lala went missing. A small amount of the missing dogs blood was found in Herberts car. The judge said it was cruel and sadistic that the children whose family pets were harmed are going to suffer for a very, very long time as a result of Mr. Herberts actions. There is no excuse to do what this man did to these families, to the children or their pets, Amour said. Last year, a North County jury found Herbert guilty of all 11 charges he had faced, including animal abuse and vandalism. For the felony crimes, Armour gave Herbert the maximum prison sentence: eight years, nine months. The judge added a year in jail for misdemeanor vandalism, for slashing his neighbors tires. In one instance, two tires popped while the neighbor was driving with one of her children. Herbert represented himself at trial. After his conviction, he agreed to have an attorney appointed to represent him at sentencing. A six-year Navy veteran, Herbert had earned a good conduct medal, a combat action ribbon and an honorable discharge. As a corpsman, he treated combat injuries in Iraq. He was shot at, withstood mortar attacks every night and dodged grenades, defense attorney Jim Weintre said in court Friday. Weintre said his client has major depressive disorder. Before handing down the sentence, Armour heard from the victimized families. Both mothers spoke of living in fear and of their traumatized children. How do you explain to a 4-year-old that a human being gets to be so cruel? said Maria Morales, whose dog Estrella lost her eye. Michelle Plaketta, the owner of Lala, the dog that disappeared, told the judge that Herbert had terrorized us. He knew exactly what he was doing, she said. He studied it. He looked it up. Lala, she said, is not replaceable. She was with my daughter through the death of her father. She doesnt have that best friend anymore. During trial, Herbert admitted driving off with Lala. She is still missing. Authorities presume she is dead. After the hearing, Plaketta said she wanted only one thing from Herbert: Where is Lala? Figueroa writes for the San Diego Union-Tribune A former U.S. Social Security Administration employee pleaded guilty in San Diego federal court Friday to charges related to taking tens of thousands of dollars in government benefits intended for senior citizens. Nam-Phong Hung Le, 37, of Chula Vista, a former technical expert with the Social Security Administration, pleaded to charges of Social Security fraud and theft of public property for creating bank accounts in the names of seniors who were owed Supplemental Security Income payments including one person who was deceased. He then deposited those funds into his personal bank accounts. Prosecutors say Le also received medical premium payments made out to two former SSI recipients whose SSI eligibility had lapsed due to moving out of the country. Le agreed to pay full restitution to the Social Security Administration and Californias Department of Health Care Services as part of his plea agreement. Advertisement Sentencing is scheduled for July 12. There is nothing more important to federal employment than public trust, said Robb Stickley, special agent in charge of Social Securitys San Francisco Field Division. When that trust is violated, it impacts the entire federal workforce and those they serve. A spike in local cases prompted the countys public health department to warn local doctors Friday that the mumps virus is likely spreading in the community. In just the first three months of 2019, 5 mumps cases have already been diagnosed compared to nine cases in all of 2018, suggesting that the disease is spreading more quickly than usual, according to the countys newly released medical community health alert. Issued early Friday morning by the county Health and Human Services Agency, the medical memo notes that, in addition to confirmed cases, there has also been a recent spike in the number of patients with acute parotitis, a significant swelling of the salivary glands. Some of these cases may be undiagnosed mumps, the alert states. Advertisement An analysis of patient symptoms at 12 local emergency departments found that 23 people have been diagnosed with parotitis so far this year compared to just two such cases through the same span in 2018. Dr. Eric McDonald, medical director of the countys Epidemiology and Immunization Services Branch, noted Friday that the notice to doctors is intended to prevent an outbreak, technically defined as several cases linked by common factors such as close contact or shared facilities. The number of mumps and parotitis cases weve had are above what we would expect, and thats something that we want our local doctors to be aware of so they can increase their sensitivity to identify and work up these patients, McDonald said. At the moment, he added, its difficult to know just how far mumps has already spread. Several other viruses and bacteria, including the flu virus, can cause the salivary glands to swell, and without additional testing, its difficult to know whether mumps, or something else entirely, has caused a case of parotitis. While it might seem easy enough for local public health nurses to simply test the 23 parotitis cases they already know about to determine whether mumps was involved, McDonald said that tests are most effective one to three days after swelling appears. Testing more than nine days after symptom onset is generally ineffective, and most of those cases are already outside the effective testing window. Its also the case, he added, that most patients with swollen salivary glands never make it to an emergency department. Making sure doctors in private offices and urgent care centers are testing for mumps every time they encounter parotitis, McDonald said, is the best way to gauge the spread of the disease. We dont really know if this is the tip of the iceberg or if this is just being caused by other viruses like the flu which is much more common than mumps this time of year, McDonald said. By letting doctors know that they should test for mumps any time they see parotitis, and let us know about it right away, we hope to get better information. Mumps is the second M in the MMR vaccine, which also protects against measles and rubella infection. The nations routine vaccination schedule recommends a first dose between 12 and 15 months and a booster shot around about a childs fifth birthday. That second dose entered the vaccine schedule in 1989 when researchers and clinicians noticed that the mumps component of the MMR vaccine petered out more quickly than expected. The mumps portion of the three-part MMR vaccine wanes more quickly than the measles or rubella portions do, McDonald said. According to the health alert, the five recent cases included a 26-year-old who traveled to China, a 28-year-old who visited India and a 19-year-old whose travel history is unknown. There was no evidence of recent travel for a 2-year-old and 62-year-old who were infected, prompting epidemiologists to conclude that some local exposure to mumps is occurring, but the extent of possible circulation is unknown. No vaccination history was available for the 19-year-old, but each of the other four had only one MMR dose. Under the routine vaccination schedule, the two-year-old would not be due for a booster for several years while the 62-year-old would have been an adult when the second dose was added to the vaccination schedule. Its not clear why the 26- and 28-year-olds didnt receive their booster shots, given that they were born after such second shots were formally recommended. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all international travelers make sure they have two doses because mumps and measles outbreaks are more common in other countries. Currently, mumps outbreaks are confirmed in Honduras and parts of Mexico and are suspected, McDonald said, in many other countries. The United States also has had its share of mumps outbreaks. From Jan. 1 through Feb. 28, a total of 151 mumps cases were reported in 30 states and the District of Columbia, according to the CDC. Because the mumps virus spreads relatively easily from person to person through the air, locations such as college dorms, jails and other congregate living locations are particularly prone to spreading infection. In 2016, mumps cases were reported at the University of San Diego and San Diego State University, prompting widespread vaccination efforts. A 2017 study in The Journal for Nurse Practitioners found that the nation has seen a recent spike in cases which was preceded by a similar uptick in 2006. Study co-author Marilou Shreve, a doctor of nursing practice and assistant professor in the Elanor Mann School of Nursing at the University of Arkansas, said that while the MMR vaccine has recently been the subject of concern for a growing antivaccination movement in America, increasing mumps infection rates do not appear to be linked to that trend. In most cases, she said, the college kids who are most often infected have had one or both of their MMR shots. The prevailing explanation for increasing mumps numbers, she said, is that the protection afforded by the MMR vaccine simply continues to wane even among those who have had a booster shot as recommended. The thought is that the second dose does not offer lifetime immunity, Shreve said. It might be like diphtheria and tetanus where you need to get a dose every certain number of years to maintain your immunity. CDC records indicate that in the late 1960s and earlier, mumps caused about two deaths per 10,000 U.S. residents. However, the mumps-associated death rate has stood at zero for many years and has been near zero since the MMR vaccine was introduced in 1971. In most cases, infection causes only salivary gland swelling and other minor symptoms and is resolved without treatment within a week to 10 days. But in rare cases, complications such as meningitis, decreased fertility and permanent hearing loss have been reported. In very rare cases mumps infection can cause loss of pregnancy in the third trimester. 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 paul.sisson@sduniontribune.com (619) 293-1850 Twitter: @paulsisson A screwlike device found in the wreckage of the Boeing 737 Max 8 that crashed last Sunday in Ethiopia indicates the plane was configured to dive, a piece of evidence that helped convince U.S. regulators to ground the model, a person familiar with the investigation said late Thursday night. Federal Aviation Administration chief Daniel Elwell on Wednesday cited unspecified evidence found at the crash scene as part of the justification for the agency to reverse course and temporarily halt flights of Boeings largest selling aircraft. Up until then, American regulators had held off as nation after nation had grounded the plane, Boeings best-selling jet model. The piece of evidence was a so-called jackscrew, used to set the trim that raises and lowers the planes nose, according to the person, who requested anonymity to discuss the inquiry. A preliminary review of the device and how it was configured at the time of the crash indicated that it was set to push down the nose, according to the person, who wasnt authorized to speak publicly about the investigation. Advertisement The jackscrew, combined with a newly obtained satellite flight track of the plane, convinced the FAA that there were similarities to the Oct. 29 crash of the same Max model off the coast of Indonesia. In the earlier accident, a safety feature on the Boeing aircraft was repeatedly trying to put the plane into a dive as a result of a malfunction. All 157 people aboard Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 died early Sunday shortly after the plane took off. The pilot reported an unspecified problem and was trying to return to the airport. The plane crashed near Addis Ababa, Ethiopias capital. The planes crash-proof recorders have been sent to France to be analyzed. The discovery of the jackscrew was earlier reported by NBC News. Separately, The New York Times reported that doomed Ethiopian Airlines plane was in trouble almost immediately after takeoff as it lurched up and down by hundreds of feet at a time. The captain of the Boeing Co. 737 Max 8 asked in a panicky voice to turn back only three minutes into the flight as the plane accelerated to abnormal speeds, the newspaper reported, citing a person who reviewed the jets air traffic communications. First published by The Washington Post Described as a 28-year-old white nationalist from Australia, the man who authorities say went on a terrorist rampage at two Christchurch, New Zealand, mosques Friday left behind a vitriolic 74-page manifesto, a litany of internet evidence and a horrific string of 49 bodies to mark his twisted crime. New Zealand and Australian authorities initially released few details about the suspect now charged with one count of murder. The assailant was armed with assault-style rifles and a helmet camera as he gunned down Muslim men, women and children attending weekly prayer services. The shooter, who livestreamed the horrendous acts, identified himself as Brenton Tarrant and is said to have been a personal trainer who left Grafton, a small town in New South Wales, to see the world. While abroad, the manifesto said, he grew to so hate immigrants, and in particular, Muslims, that he became consumed with a desire to kill them by the score and seek to inspire others to do the same. In the document, titled The Great Replacement, the writer said he called himself a fascist but not a member of any specific white nationalist organization. Advertisement At the same time, he championed such killers as Dylann Roof, the young white supremacist sentenced to death for slaughtering nine African Americans in a church in Charleston, S.C., in 2015; and Anders Breivik, the far-right Norwegian terrorist who in 2011 killed eight people by detonating a van bomb before shooting dead 69 people, many of them teens, at a summer camp. The Christchurch suspect also asserted he was not a Nazi, but written on a rifle thats seen in the gunmans livestreamed video is the number 14 a reference to a white supremacist slogan conceived by neo-Nazi David Lane, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center. What it represents, said Brian Levin, director of the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at Cal State San Bernardino, is the ease that these kinds of tropes can be transferred internationally now. The shooters plan began and ended online, authorities say. Thats no coincidence his goal from the start, the manifesto said, was to spread his ideas of militancy by using the media. The title of the suspects document is a reference to a book with the same name written by French author Renaud Camus, who argues that Europe is being taken over by immigrants. The title represents this sort of fixation on the possibility that white, European society will be overrun by immigration and by others, said Oren Segal, director of the Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism. It used to be that white supremacists were talking about maintaining their control and now theyre talking about maintaining their existence. RELATED: 49 killed in terrorist attacks on two New Zealand mosques; suspect charged with murder In the manifesto, Candace Owens, an American conservative commentator, is identified as the person who most influenced the writer. Owens responded on Twitter on Friday condemning the attacks on the worshipers. In addition, the manifesto describes President Trump as a symbol of renewed white identity and common purpose. In tweets Friday, Trump said 49 innocent people have so senselessly died and expressed his warmest sympathy and best wishes to the people of New Zealand. He later said he doesnt see an increase in white nationalism. I think its a small group of people, he said, in response to a reporters question. In Grafton, Australia, Big River Gym manager Tracey Gray told ABC News that Brenton Tarrant showed determination during his lengthy workouts. He was in the gym for long periods of time, lifting heavy weights. He pretty much transformed his body, Gray said. According to the manifesto, he saved money for his travels by investing in Bitconnect, a cryptocurrency. In 2017, while traveling Western Europe, the document claims, his mindset changed. It says that he was instilled with the growing desire to use violence after a trip to France, when he became convinced that the country was being invaded by nonwhites. It was around that time that he began planning an attack, according to the manifesto. Initially, it said, he planned to move to New Zealand temporarily for training purposes. But he started to consider opening fire on innocent worshipers in two Christchurch mosques three months before the attack. An attack in a country isolated from mass shootings, the writer declared, would show that nowhere in the world was safe. The District Attorneys Office announced Friday that a San Diego police officer is not criminally liable in the death of a woman he arrested last year in La Jolla who went into medical distress while in his custody and never recovered. Aleah Mariah Jenkins, 24, was arrested Nov. 27 when she was a passenger in a vehicle that police pulled over on La Jolla Village Drive. She went into medical distress and became unresponsive while in police custody that evening, and died Dec. 6. District Attorney Summer Stephan said Jenkins died of a methamphetamine overdose. Documents provided by Stephans office, including a letter she sent to San Diego Police Chief David Nisleit, said an autopsy found Jenkins death was caused by two things: the death of brain tissues because of a lack of oxygen due to the CPR performed on her, and acute methamphetamine toxicity. Advertisement The county Medical Examiners Office ruled her death an accident. Stephan said the toxicology report showed Jenkins blood had an extremely high level of methamphetamine that is estimated to be as much as 17 times a lethal dose. She said one of two men in the car with Jenkins told detectives that as they were being pulled over, Jenkins was handed a bag of drugs and asked to hide them. Officers, medics and nurses all reported finding baggies and vials of drugs inside Jenkins underwear or near her body, Stephan said, though it was unclear whether she actually inserted the drugs into her body or swallowed them. The conclusion of Stephans letter to Nisleit reads: Based upon our review of the facts and circumstances surrounding Jenkins death, the law enforcement personnel involved in her arrest acted reasonably under the circumstances and bear no state criminal liability for their actions. Outside Stephans news conference, Tasha Williamson, an activist and spokesperson for the Jenkins family, called for the firing of police Officer Lawrence Durbin, who has been with the department six years. Durbin drove Jenkins to police headquarters after her arrest. In an edited video Stephan showed to reporters Friday the full-length, unedited video was released after the press briefing officers can be seen and heard asking Jenkins questions, handcuffing her and putting her in a patrol car. Footage shown Friday during a news conference shows an officer perform CPR on Aleah Jenkins, 24, who fell into medical distress during an arrest on Nov. 27. She died Dec. 6 at a hospital. The officer involved will not be held criminally liable, the District Attorney said Friday. (Alex Riggins/SDUT) Jenkins, wearing only an oversized hoodie over her underwear, initially appears alert, but slow to answer questions. During the traffic stop, officers arrested her on a misdemeanor warrant that accused her of methamphetamine possession. During the encounter, Jenkins became sick and vomited, according to police and body camera footage released Friday. Officers called for medics, then subsequently canceled the call after Jenkins told police she was pregnant. She also reportedly told officers she only had an upset stomach. Body camera footage released Friday appeared to show Jenkins becoming gradually sicker throughout the interaction and the ride to the downtown police headquarters, which lasted an extended period because of evening rush-hour traffic. Durbin at one point stops, gets out and checks on Jenkins. Officers began life-saving efforts and called for paramedics, who took Jenkins to a hospital. She was placed on life-support and died Dec. 6. In the edited video, the footage pauses twice and red circles appear on the screen to show what Stephan said were small baggies of drugs that Jenkins had apparently concealed. The baggies appear to fall out of the car as Jenkins is dragged from the police car on two separate occasions. When Jenkins was taken into custody, there were two warrants out for her arrest. One was a $5,000 warrant for possession of methamphetamine. Police said last year that she had been arrested on a meth warrant. Jenkins was also wanted on a $692 warrant, related to a charge of smoking in a prohibited area. She was not arrested on that warrant. A few weeks after her daughter died, Keiala Jenkins watched video footage of her daughters arrest. At a subsequent press conference, she said her daughter should have received help sooner than she did. Staff writer Teri Figueroa contributed to this report. Twitter: @Alex_Riggins (619) 293-1710 alex.riggins@sduniontribune.com UPDATES: 5:20 p.m.: This article was updated with additional details. This article was originally published at 3:55 p.m. A 58-year-old man died after he apparently lost control of his motorcycle on a thoroughfare in Oceanside early Saturday, police said. Evidence at the crash site indicated the motorcyclist was traveling north on El Camino Real when he lost control about 2 a.m. near the Town and Country Shopping Center, police said. The rider was thrown onto the road, where officers and medics found him with severe trauma, police said. The man, who was not identified, died before he could be taken to a hospital. Police said an ongoing investigation had not determined whether alcohol was a factor in the collision. No other vehicles were involved in the crash. Advertisement Breaking News Email: david.hernandez@sduniontribune.com Phone: (619) 293-1876 Twitter: @D4VIDHernandez A driver heading the wrong way on Interstate 805 caused a fiery crash that left at least three people injured early Saturday in Serra Mesa, a California Highway Patrol official said. The wrong-way driver was northbound in the fast lane on southbound Interstate 805 when the crash occurred about 2:40 a.m. near Murray Ridge Road. Three vehicles were involved, CHP Sgt. Sofia Mosqueda told media at the collision site. The wrong-way driver and another driver were taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries, Mosqueda said. The third driver suffered minor injuries. Two lanes were closed during the investigation, according to the CHPs website. Advertisement Mosqueda said investigators had not determined whether alcohol or drugs were factors in the collision. No other information was available as of late Saturday morning. Email: david.hernandez@sduniontribune.com Phone: (619) 293-1876 Twitter: @D4VIDHernandez Dick Cheney, the former vice president, made just about the nastiest crack a Republican could offer about President Trumps foreign policy when he said it looks a lot more like Barack Obama than Ronald Reagan. Obviously, the comparison is flawed. But say this much for Cheney: Hes the rare Republican who isnt intimidated by Trump these days. Cheney made a string of similarly blistering comments at a supposedly off-the-record conversation with Vice President Pence at a gathering in Sea Island, Georgia, last weekend hosted by the American Enterprise Institute. Cheneys remarks tell us that we are experiencing what may be a political realignment in America, in which some of our political labels dont work very well. Theres a populist wing in both parties, with Trump and some progressive Democrats expressing broadly similar concerns about Americas overextension in the world and the unfairness of the existing global order to working people. Theres a traditionalist wing in both parties, too, which supports the old Cheney-esque American-led world order and its network of alliances and trade agreements. This traditionalist approach was embodied in the shared invitation this week by Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to NATOs secretary general, Jens Stoltenberg, to address a joint session of Congress. Advertisement Theres a world of difference, to be sure, between Trumps bullying, rich-guy version of populism and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders empathetic, progressive version. Similarly, Pelosis version of internationalism is less defense-oriented and hawkish than McConnells. But politics is confusing these days partly because the usual left-right spectrum doesnt always apply. Is free trade liberal or conservative? How about internationalism? What about privacy protection? American politics has always been more personality-driven than ideological, and when we think of eras, theyre usually defined by presidents. George Washington personified the Federalist Era; Andrew Jackson defined a freewheeling Democratic Party assault on the elites; Abraham Lincoln created the modern Republican Party in the Civil War; and Theodore Roosevelt recast it in the Progressive Era; Franklin Roosevelt created a new Democratic coalition; and Reagan framed a new Republican one. Is Trump such a transitional figure? I doubt it. He seems more an emblem of our current political disorder than the architect of a new political alignment. But hes a harbinger of change in our party system. Trump already has led one of the most successful insurgencies in American politics. He destroyed the existing Republican establishment, savaging the GOPs field of presidential candidates in 2016. His defiant, carnival-barker politics of resentment was on display this month at the CPAC convention. It was a bizarre, idiosyncratic performance, but it clearly enthralled his audience. Trump owns whats left of the party he wrecked. Democrats these days can seem just as frightened as Republicans by a party base thats in ferment. An example is former Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, an ex-entrepreneur who created a bipartisan base in his home state. Hickenlooper is the embodiment of a moderate Democrat. But he verged on incoherence last week on MSNBCs Morning Joe when host Joe Scarborough asked him if he was a socialist or capitalist. Watching him, it seemed possible that Democrats are as jittery about offending Sanders supporters as Republicans are of crossing Trump. Maybe Sanders has the passion and progressive appeal to make democratic socialism a winning strategy for 2020. Hes undeniably appealing to the Democratic base; polls show him gaining steadily over the past two months, while most of the rest of the field has been treading water. But Ill be very surprised if Sanders can make it to the White House. The Democrat who can beat Trump is more likely to be a large but also reassuring personality, acceptable to blue-collar Democrats and also exciting to younger voters a more youthful version of Joe Biden, perhaps. People who occupy that space (at least on my mental map) include Sen. Michael Bennett; Sen. Kamala Harris, Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Rep. Seth Moulton and former Rep. Beto ORourke. Political systems can be like scientific theories. Sometimes there emerge so many anomalous elements that dont fit the existing structure that the theory collapses, and a new one arises. In science, that means, for example, that the theory that the sun revolves around the earth loses its explanatory power, and evidence proves the opposite is the case. In politics, new parties emerge, or the existing ones develop new identities. We may be entering such a period. The definition of a winning Democrat may be that, in response to Trumps rambling circus of self-aggrandizement, he or she could create a genuinely coherent new political order. Ignatius can be reached at davidignatius@washpost.com. He is on Twitter, @IgnatiusPost Reporters will routinely check public documents on their beats for news to publish. That is how South Bay reporter Gustavo Solis discovered a case of a Chula Vista police officer suing the city over veterinarian bills for his family pet. At least once a month I check the San Diego Superior Courts website to see if any cities in the South Bay have been sued, Solis said. I check for Chula Vista, Imperial Beach, Coronado and National City. If someone filed a lawsuit, I go to court and read the complaint to determine if the suit merits coverage. Solis felt this case did. A reader disagreed. Advertisement The officers canine partner became sick about a year ago with what turned out to be a fatal infection contracted while being boarded by the city. The officer said in the lawsuit that the infection was passed on to his family pet dog. The officer said vet bills came to about $1,700 for the pet. While the city paid for some initial care, it would not pay for more, causing the officer personal expense. He sued the city to recover the cost. Solis used the lawsuit, a public document, for the reporting. The city and officer declined to comment. The story appeared in the Local section March 8. Also, a bit of background: The U-T published a story in March 2018 on the death of the police dog, based on information provided by the Chula Vista Police Department. Reader Laurie Orange of Chula Vista emailed saying the U-T should not have published the story on the lawsuit because the officer deserved privacy. Why did the Union Tribune publish this article? she wrote. ... Police do not give up their civil rights when they pledge to serve the public. This officer should be entitled to both protect his pet from negligent conduct, and to his privacy in enforcing those rights. Solis responded: Why are we covering the lawsuit? ... It involves a city, and if Chula Vista decides to defend themselves in court they will pay for that legal defense with taxpayer dollars. The people of Chula Vista have a right to know how their city spends their hard-earned tax dollars. Additionally, it is rare for a police officer to sue a city. In this case, it is after the tragic death of a police dog. Solis also noted the story from a year ago on the police dogs death. Orange expanded on her argument in a follow-up email, saying the U-T would not have written a story if the plaintiff had been non-government employee, and the lawsuit being public is not a valid reason for publishing. Yes, a lawsuit is a public document. However, the vast majority of legal actions never see the light of day. ... Government workers simply do not give up their right to seek justice, or their right to privacy, because they work for the government. I do not understand why you feel it is right to intrude into the private affairs of a bereaved family, she wrote. I believe this is a matter of simple fairness and courtesy. ... I suspect most of us would find it inappropriate to have their sorrow and subsequent financial losses made public. I feel reporting this story is valid. A police officer suing his city is newsworthy. The lawsuit, a public document, involves a public employee, a public entity and public money. Also the death of the police dog, which is part of the suit, had been reported in the U-T. This is not say that all lawsuits, or other public documents, filed by a person who happens to be a public employee are fair game on which to report and publish stories. Some might have no news value. Some might not involve public agencies. Also, ethics come into play. Why report private details, lets say, in a public document that will only humiliate a person? What do you think should the U-T have reported on the officers lawsuit? Email your thoughts to the readers.rep@sduniontribune.com U-Ts journalism scholars For the past seven summers, the U-T newsroom has played host to high school students who have been accepted into a summer journalism program. This year will be the programs eighth, and the U-T is accepting applications. The U-T Community Journalism Scholars program provides students a first-hand look at journalism and a news media career. The students use online, video and print tools to report and produce stories. The program begins June 17 at the U-Ts downtown San Diego offices. Students must be at least 16 years old by May 1, 2019, enrolled in a county high school, and must have a legal right to work in the U.S. Not only will students be paid, they will have a chance for a $5,000 scholarship provided by the U-T. Applicants enrolled in a Title 1 school and/or who would be the first generation in their family to enroll in college in the U.S. will receive special consideration. The deadline to apply is April 10. Applications are available on the U-Ts website, sandiegouniontribune.com/journalismscholars. For more information, contact op-ed editor Blanca Gonzalez at (619) 293-1241. adrian.vore@sduniontribune.com Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- Activated alumina is primarily used as desiccant, adsorbent, catalyst, and catalyst carrier in water treatment, oil & gas, and pharmaceuticals, and the Claus process. It is a highly porous material with high surface area. This ensures superior moisture absorbing capabilities. Activated alumina also offers superior mechanical and thermal shock absorbing properties. It is produced through dehydroxylation of aluminum oxide. The report estimates and forecasts the activated alumina market on the global, regional, and country levels. The study provides forecast between 2016 and 2024 based on volume (tons) and revenue (US$ Mn) with 2015 as the base year. The report comprises an exhaustive value chain analysis for each of the product segments. It provides a comprehensive view of the market. Value chain analysis also offers detailed information about value addition at each stage. The study includes drivers and restraints for the activated alumina market along with their impact on demand during the forecast period. The study also provides key market indicators affecting the growth of the market. Read Report Overview @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/activated-alumina-market.html The report analyzes opportunities in the activated alumina market on the global and regional level. Drivers, restraints, and opportunities mentioned in the report are justified through quantitative and qualitative data. These have been verified through primary and secondary resources. Furthermore, the report analyzes substitute analysis of activated alumina and global average price trend analysis. The report includes Porter's Five Forces Model to determine the degree of competition in the activated alumina market. The report comprises a qualitative write-up on market attractiveness analysis, wherein end-users and countries have been analyzed based on attractiveness for each region. Growth rate, market size, raw material availability, profit margin, impact strength, technology, competition, and other factors (such as environmental and legal) have been evaluated in order to derive the general attractiveness of the market. The report comprises price trend analysis for activated alumina between 2016 and 2024. The study provides a comprehensive view of the activated alumina market by dividing it into end-user and geography. The activated alumina market has been segmented into reaction catalyst, oil & gas, water treatment, biomaterial, and others. The oil & gas segment has been further bifurcated into gas dehydration and liquid dehydration. End-user segments have been analyzed based on historic, present, and future trends, and the market has been estimated in terms of volume (tons) and revenue (US$ Mn) between 2016 and 2024. Request Report Brochure @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=3914 Regional segmentation includes the current and forecast demand for activated alumina in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa (MEA). Additionally, the report comprises country-level analysis in terms of volume and revenue for end-user segments. Key countries such as the U.S., Germany, France, the U.K., Spain, Italy, India, China, South Africa, Mexico, and Brazil have been included in the study. Market segmentation includes demand for individual end-users in all the regions and countries. The report covers detailed competitive outlook that includes market share and profiles of key players operating in the global market. Key players profiled in the report include Albemarle Corporation, Axens, BASF SE, Porocel Industries, Honeywell International Inc., and Sumitomo Chemicals. Company profiles include attributes such as company overview, number of employees, brand overview, key competitors, business overview, business strategies, recent/key developments, acquisitions, and financial overview (wherever applicable). Rockville, MD -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Air Springs for Railways, Trucks and Buses Introduction Air springs a part of the air suspension system are commonly found in heavy duty vehicles such as trucks and buses as well as rail vehicles. Air springs are made of rubber and plastic bags inflated with specific pressure to a certain height. Air springs are commonly installed in place of coil spring or in conjunction with a coil spring. In addition to their application in the vehicle suspension system, air springs also find industrial application in machinery and as angular or linear actuators. Air Springs for Railways, Trucks and Buses Market Dynamics The growth of the air springs for railways, trucks and buses market is expected to remain under the influence of rising sales of HCVs. Rising demand for HCVs against the backdrop of increasing reliance on public transport vehicles has, in turn, propelled the sales of rail vehicles and buses. The growth of the international trade activities and warehousing industry has increased demand for trucks for the purpose of goods transportation. Get Free Exclusive Sample Copy of This Report @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=457 Air springs are traditionally used in the heavy commercial vehicles (HCVs) that deliver efficient load carrying and smooth ride. Sales of air springs for railways, trucks and buses are rising as they deliver the best vibration isolation. In addition, HCVs deploy multiple air springs to mitigate the suspension issues and achieve better ride quality. Steadily rising demand for air springs in HCVs such as railways, trucks and buses is set to fuel the growth of the air springs for railways, trucks and buses market during the forecast period. Air Springs for Railways, Trucks and Buses Market: Competitive Landscape Manufacturers operating in the air springs marketplace are leveraging business strategies such as product development and introduction of new products to increase their market revenues. For instance, Air Lift Company introduced a new Air Lift 1000 HD in November 2018. These are tailor-made polyurethane air springs inserted in the rear coil springs without the requirement of modifications. The new suspension system is available for 2019 RAM 1500. Firestone, another leader in the air springs for railways, trucks and buses market launched intelligent air spring sensor in October 2018. The new advanced air spring system has the first fully integrated intelligent air spring sensor which aids in eliminating vibration in transportation application. Few of the profiled key players in the air springs for railways, trucks and buses market are, Goodyear Arnott Ksport Firestone Helix Air Lift Torque Suncore Viair RideTech Hellwig Legend Ride-Rite Air Springs for Railways, Trucks and Buses Market: Regional Outlook The air springs for railways, trucks and buses market is expected to witness significant growth in the Asia Pacific region. As the region continues to gain stronger ground in the automotive industry, demand for air springs and associated components is set to rise in the Asia Pacific. In addition, countries like China and India portray fast-developing economies that are witnessing increasing sales of heavy duty vehicles and increasing developments in the transportation infrastructures. Factors as such are expected to bode well for the futuristic growth of the air springs for railways, trucks and buses market. Ask For Customized Report @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=RC&rep_id=457 Demand for air springs in Europe will also hold a significant market share. The most attractive market for the automotive industry in Europe presents lucrative opportunities for the air springs market in the coming years. Demand generation of air springs from other regions such as North America and Japan are also expected to contribute to the overall progress of the air springs for railways, trucks and buses market during the forecast period. In particular, the steady outlook of the air springs for railways, trucks and buses market can be attributed to ongoing infrastructure improvements of public transport and increasing demand for HCVs. Air springs for railways, trucks and buses market research report offers detailed analysis of the market as well as consists of thoughtful facts and insights along with historical data, which holds market data that is industry-evaluated and statistically backed up. The report comprises of projections that are generated with the help of suitable methodologies and a set of hypotheses. In addition, the research report delivers information and study based on market classifications such as industry, end-use and region. Read Comprehensive Overview of Report @ https://www.factmr.com/report/457/air-springs-for-railways-trucks-and-buses-market About Fact.MR Fact.MR is a fast-growing market research firm that offers the most comprehensive suite of syndicated and customized market research reports. We believe transformative intelligence can educate and inspire businesses to make smarter decisions. We know the limitations of the one-size-fits-all approach; that's why we publish multi-industry global, regional, and country-specific research reports. Contact Us FactMR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20852 United States Email: sales@factmr.com Web: www.factmr.com/ Read Industrial News : http://insiderstribune.com/ Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Ambulatory surgery is defined as surgical and diagnostic intervention that does not require overnight hospital stay. The ambulatory surgery has been increasingly adopted by patient population in Europe owing to its safe, high quality, cost-effective and time saving approach to perform surgical interventions. In addition, advancements in technologies that enables healthcare professionals to perform multiple minimally invasive surgical procedures in a single day further drives the market growth in Europe. View Report- https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/europe-ambulatory-surgical-emergency-center-services-market.html For example, advent of minimally invasive surgeries such as laparoscopic procedures has permitted complex surgeries such as gallbladder, hysterectomy surgeries to be done in reduced amount of time. However, factors such as lack of adequate medical facilities and favorable reimbursement policies for inpatient surgeries as compared to outpatient surgeries might impede the growth of Europe ambulatory surgical and emergency center services market. In 2013, the orthopedic surgeries segment accounted for the largest share. Dominance of this market segment was majorly due to high cost of procedures coupled with rising prevalence of arthroscopic procedures. The ophthalmology surgeries segment is expected to grow at the highest growth rate during the forecast period from 2014 to 2020. Factors such as rising number of ophthalmology procedures performed and increasing number of cataract, diabetic retinopathy and other ophthalmology surgeries are supporting the growth of this market segment in the European region. In terms of market volume, ophthalmology segment recorded the highest number of ambulatory procedures and is expected to dominate the market in future. Request A Sample- https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=3676 Growing number of ophthalmology procedures that can be done on a daily basis coupled with advancement in ophthalmology ambulatory surgical procedures will help this segment to record high revenue. Moreover, orthopedic surgeries recorded second highest number of ambulatory procedures in 2013. The growth of this segment is due to persistent rise in geriatric population coupled with growing trend of minimally invasive surgeries that helps large number of orthopedic surgeries to be done on ambulatory basis. U.K. dominated the Europe ambulatory surgical and emergency center services market in 2013. The dominance of this region was mainly attributed to rising government and medical professional bodies' initiatives to promote ambulatory services in the country. For instance, in November 2014, the British Association of Day Surgery in collaboration with the Healthcare Conferences UK (HCUK) organized an event titled "Improving Quality in Day Surgery". This event aims at discussing new way to improve quality of day surgery in European countries such as the U.K. and Germany. Rest of the Europe (RoE) accounted for the highest number of ambulatory surgeries performed in 2013 and is projected to dominate the market during the forecast period from 2014 to 2020. Rising number of day surgeries performed in countries such as Denmark, Netherlands, Sweden and other regions will help Rest of Europe to record high number of ambulatory surgeries. Request Brochure- https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=3676 Some of the key players having presence in the Europe Ambulatory Surgical and Emergency Center market are Community Health Systems, Inc., IntegraMed America, Inc., Nueterra Healthcare, Terveystalo Healthcare Oyj, Symbion, Inc., AmSurg Corporation, Medical Facilities Corporation, Surgery Partners, Healthway Medical Corporation Ltd., Eifelhoehen-Klinik AG and others. Among these players, companies such as Community Health Systems, Inc., Healthway Medical Corporation Ltd. and Medical Facilities Corporation have the presence in majority of ambulatory surgeries. Rockville, MD -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Analytical Gel Permeation Chromatography is also known as Gel filtration chromatography. Analytical Gel Permeation Chromatography is a form of Liquid Chromatography. When Biomolecules are purified via chromatography techniques that separate them according to the difference in their specific properties such as size, charge, hydrophobicity, isoelectric point, and chemical specificity. Analytical gel permeation chromatography is the type of size exclusion chromatography. Analytical Gel Permeation Chromatography helps in protein fractionation, purification, molecular weight determination and also helps in determination of quaternary structure of purified protein. Analytical Gel Permeation Chromatography method is most preferable because it has least amount of matter/sample loss. Pharmaceutical and biotech manufacturers use analytical gel permeation chromatography to analyze the biomolecules or products. Analytical gel permeation chromatography market players offer the diverse range of systems for purification and separation of polymer and biomolecule analysis. Analytical gel permeation chromatography market player offers multiple detectors ranging from refractive index to viscometer. Request Free Sample Report@ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=2559 Analytical Gel Permeation Chromatography Market: Drivers and Restraints Increasing research and development for new drugs and biomolecules by pharmaceutical and biotech companies are expected to boost the demand for analytical gel permeation chromatography systems. This technique is broadly used as Analytical Gel Permeation Chromatography is one of the most powerful and versatile analytical techniques available. Analytical Gel Permeation Chromatography technique is readily and quicker to produce the results because it separates mixtures in a single step. Analytical Gel Permeation Chromatography helps to measure amount of each and every components and relative amount of proportions. This technique is used in academic and industrial for research and development of new compounds; for instance Laboratories. Analytical Gel Permeation Chromatography is very useful tool to biochemists. As there is not any standards for polymer type therefore same standard is used for similar chemistry. Filtration process is used to remove dusts using detectors. Analytical Gel Permeation Chromatography creates difficulty because it might happen sometimes that higher molecular weight sample may removed. So this issue should be resolved. Analytical Gel Permeation Chromatography Market: Segmentation Tentatively, the global custom Analytical Gel Permeation Chromatography market can be segmented on the basis of product and end user. Segmentation by Product Type- Conventional Systems Multi-detector Systems Segmentation by End User- Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies Scientific Research Centers Laboratories Request/View TOC@ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=T&rep_id=2559 Analytical Gel Permeation Chromatography Market: Overview Analytical gel permeation chromatography market player is focusing on development and introduction of the new column, detectors and systems to meet industry demand. For instance, In 2017 Showa Denko launched five new type of Shodex high-performance liquid chromatography analytical columns for analytical gel permeation chromatography. Increasing launch of new products for Analytical gel permeation chromatography expected to spur the growth of analytical gel permeation chromatography market. Analytical Gel permeation chromatography is a technique which is widely used across the world. As Analytical Gel Permeation Chromatography is in great use from user ends therefore it is in demand as well and manufactured at high pace by companies.Analytical gel permeation chromatography cost is most effective because of using gel. Analytical gel permeation chromatography technique is used in each laboratory for the experimental purpose and many researches is using chromatography techniques and for cost effective purpose it is most preferable chromatographic technique to use; that's why Analytical gel permeation chromatography market is in progress. Analytical gel permeation chromatography technique is used for academic purposes as well as in national and private laboratories all over the world especially in North America and in Western Europe. So, it is always in high demand till this education system exists and for future instances its growth rate will be high in upcoming future. Analytical Gel Permeation Chromatography Market: Region-wise Outlook On the basis of geography, the global analytical gel permeation chromatography market is divided into seven regions: North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia Pacific excluding Japan, Japan, and Middle East & Africa. The demand for analytical gel permeation chromatography systems is high in the regions such as North America and Europe due to the huge number of ongoing research and clinical studies. In Asian pacific excluding japan (APEJ) growth rate is impressive of the product due to the presence of giant local manufacturers in countries, such as Japan, China and India. Its experiments in laboratory is going on in high pace and the set-up of numerous research laboratories in this region is further expected to drive revenue generation in the region in future. Analytical Gel Permeation Chromatography Market: Key Players Some of the prominent market players in the analytical gel permeation chromatography market are Agilent Technologies, Waters Corporation, Showa Denko K. K., Polymer Char, Danaher Corporation, Shimadzu Corp., Angstrom Advanced Inc., SCION Instruments, Malvern Panalytical Ltd., GE Healthcare and Others. The report is a compilation of first-hand information, qualitative and quantitative assessment by industry analysts, inputs from industry experts and industry participants across the value chain. The report provides in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies. The report covers exhaustive analysis on: Market Segments Market Dynamics Market Size Supply & Demand Current Trends/Issues/Challenges Competition & Companies involved Technology Value Chain Regional analysis includes North America (U.S., Canada) Latin America (Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Rest of Latin America) Europe [EU -4 (Germany, France, Italy, Spain), BENELUX (Belgium, Netherlands, Luxemburg), NORDIC (Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Sweden), Eastern Europe (Poland, Ukraine, Czech Rep. etc.), Rest of Europe CIS & Russia Japan APEJ (Greater China, India, S. Korea, ASEAN Countries and Rest of APEJ) Middle East & Africa (GCC Countries, Turkey, Iran, Israel, South Africa, Rest of MEA) Report Highlights: Detailed overview of parent market Changing market dynamics in the industry In-depth market segmentation Historical, current and projected market size in terms of volume and value Recent industry trends and developments Competitive landscape Strategies of key players and products offered Potential and niche segments, geographical regions exhibiting promising growth A neutral perspective on market performance Must-have information for market players to sustain and enhance their market footprint. Report Analysis@ https://www.factmr.com/report/2559/analytical-gel-permeation-chromatography-market About Fact.MR Fact.MR is a fast-growing market research firm that offers the most comprehensive suite of syndicated and customized market research reports. We believe transformative intelligence can educate and inspire businesses to make smarter decisions. We know the limitations of the one-size-fits-all approach; that's why we publish multi-industry global, regional, and country-specific research reports. Contact Us Rohit Bhisey Fact.MR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20852 United States Email: sales@factmr.com Web: https://www.factmr.com/ Blog: https://factmrblog.com/ Read Industry News at - http://theguardiantribune.com New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- Persistence Market Research (PMR) delivers key insights on the Australia lime market in its latest report titled, "Lime Market: Australia Industry Analysis and Forecast, 20162024". The lime market in Australia is expected to expand at a CAGR of 1.7% in terms of value over the forecast period, 20162024. The market has been segmented by product type and application. The application segmentation consists of mining & metallurgy, building materials, agriculture, water treatment and others of which the mining & metallurgy segment is expected to account for the highest share of the lime market in Australia throughout the forecast period, to account for 31.4% by 2024. Request for Report Sample@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/11503 Demand for energy-efficient and cost-effective solutions is expected to be a priority for lime manufacturers in the country over the forecast period. By product type, slaked/hydrated lime segment is expected to continue to dominate the market in terms of both value and volume throughout the forecast period. The segment is estimated to be valued at US$ 146.7 Mn and account for volume share of 68% in 2016. By application, mining & metallurgy and building materials, segments in the Australia lime market are expected to account for significant volume shares of 38% and 35%, respectively. New South Wales is expected to be the largest market for lime in Australia throughout the forecast period. The market in the region is estimated to be valued at US$ 59.1 Mn by 2016 end. In terms of production, Western Australia is expected to be a major producer, contributing over 65% to the total lime production in the country, and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 0.8% over the forecast period. Key players in the Australia lime market include Adelaide Brighton Ltd., Boral Limited, Sibelco Australia, Omya Australia Pty. Ltd, Wagners, and Lime Group Australia. Key players in the Australia lime market are focusing on enhancing their product portfolios. They are focusing not only on basic lime products but also on importing quicklime from ASEAN countries such as Thailand and Vietnam and Southeast Asian countries such as China to minimize a cost of raw materials involved in a lime production. Manufacturers are focusing on capitalizing on economies of scale to increase production, profitability, and offer cost-effective products in order to target cost-sensitive population in the region. Joint ventures, acquisitions, and strategic collaborations in terms of production and distribution of lime have been the common strategies employed by these companies to achieve their production objectives. Request for Report Table of Content (TOC) @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/methodology/11503 Long-term Outlook: The long-term outlook on the Australia lime market remains on the conservative side, with the market expected to expand at a modest CAGR of 1.7% in terms of value during the forecast period. The revival of the mining sector in the country, increasing demand from the construction sector, particularly in the country's east coast region, and demand from the water treatment industry are some of the factors expected to sustain a growth of the lime market in Australia. New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Automotive chrome Market: Introduction: For vehicle appearance enhancement, chrome accessories are pre-eminent thing because these are composed of chromium and hard metals, which is used for many after-market car and motorcycle decorative products. Moreover, chrome is known for its strength and shine, and easy maintenance features. Such factors have made chrome accessories as a popular choice in vehicles. Furthermore, customization of vehicles have increased the demand of chroming material for various exterior and interior automobile components. Now a day's, vehicle drivers are inclined towards modified vehicles, and for these modification vehicles, chrome accessories have been commonly offered by the aftermarket vendors. Of the vehicle types, passenger vehicle and luxury car vehicle segment have a prominent market share in the automotive chrome market. New age aesthetics and cost-effectiveness are the characteristics associated with chrome decorative articles. Chrome plating is being progressively used for plating numerous passenger vehicle mechanisms such as mirror, inner & outer door handle, bumper, interior decorative parts, grill covers headrest and other parts. In addition, the emerging adoption of the chrome plating in passenger vehicles is anticipated to drive the market growth over the forecast period. In order to make luxury cars more gratifying, prominent OEMs such as Bentley, BMW, Audi and other luxury vehicle manufacturers have been endorsing chrome embellishments thus fortifying the automotive chrome market. Request For Report Sample@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/19777 Automotive chrome Market: Dynamics The demand for functional chrome plating is mainly driven by the growth in commercial and passenger vehicle industry. Increased demand from the commercial vehicles on account of factors such as high strength and improved processes is expected to have positive impact on the market over the next nine years. Fair rate of product replacement coupled with high margins on sales and installation is expected to drive the global automotive chrome market. The easy availability of counterfeit and cheap automotive chrome accessories in addition to products provided by leading manufacturers have also provided sales impetus to the market of automotive chrome accessories. The growth in two wheeler industry is expected to have a positive impact on the market. In addition, this market is highly fragmented, making it cost competitive to cut throat levels. Also, there are some regulations related to vehicle exterior modifications in certain regions of the world that are hampering the growth prospects of this market during the assessment period. Automotive chrome Market: Segmentation Automotive chrome market can be segmented on the basis of product type, vehicle type On the basis of product Type automotive chrome market can be segmented as Body Side Mounding Grille Covers Door Handle Covers Fog Lamp Overlays & Rings Fuel Tank Door Covers Head Lamp Overlays & Rings Mirror Covers Tail Light Covers Third Brake Light Covers Miscellaneous Chrome Trim Accessories On the basis of vehicle type automotive chrome market can be segmented as Two wheelers Passenger vehicles Commercial vehicles Automotive chrome Market: Regional Outlook The growing automotive market in countries, such as India and China, makes Asia Pacific one of the faster growing markets for automotive chrome market. Chinese and Indian markets are prominently credited to escalate two wheelers chrome plating market, on account of enhanced corrosion and wear resistance offered by chrome plating. The upswing in manufacturing of vehicles and two wheelers market in North America, is anticipated to fuel the demand for automotive chrome in this region. Latin America and Middle East and Africa are anticipated to witness healthy growth in automotive chrome market over the forecast period a trend that. This trend of chrome plating is quite prevalent in the Middle East market with some ultra-luxury cars. Request For Report Table of Content (TOC)@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/toc/19777 Automotive chrome Market: Market Participants Examples of some of the market participants in the combat management system market are: HELLA KGaA Hueck & Co, Thule Group AB, Oakmore Pty Ltd, Lund International, Inc., Covercraft Industries, LLC, Pep Boys - Manny, Moe & Jack, O'Reilly Automotive, Inc., S. Auto Parts Network, Inc., Mont Blanc Industri AB Fratelli Menabo' Srl. Cooper Standard Toyoda Gosei Hutchinson Henniges Nishikawa Rubber SaarGummi Minth Group Kinugawa Magna Edison, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 Market study with in-depth overview, describing about the Product / Industry Scope and elaborates market outlook and status to 2023. The market Study is segmented by key regions which is accelerating the marketization. At present, the market is developing its presence and some of the key players from the complete study are Abbott Nutrition, Mead Johnson Nutritionals, Gerber Products Co - Nestle Infant Nutrition, Beech Nut Nutrition Corp (Hero), Plum Organics (Campbell Soup Company), The Hain Celestial Group Inc., Happy Family Group (Danone), Perrigo Company Plc. Request Sample of The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 @: https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/1692189-the-baby-food-sector-in-the-us-2019 This report studies the The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 market size, industry status and forecast, competition landscape and growth opportunity. This research report categorizes the The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 market by companies, region, type and end-use industry. Browse 100+ market data Tables and Figures spread through Pages and in-depth TOC on " The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 Market by Type by End-Users/Application, Organization Size, Industry, and Region - Forecast to 2023". Early buyers will receive 10% customization on comprehensive study. In order to get a deeper view of Market Size, competitive landscape is provided i.e. Revenue (Million USD) by Players (2013-2018), Revenue Market Share (%) by Players (2013-2018) and further a qualitative analysis is made towards market concentration rate, product/service differences, new entrants and the technological trends in future. Enquire for customization in Report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/1692189-the-baby-food-sector-in-the-us-2019 Competitive Analysis: The key players are highly focusing innovation in production technologies to improve efficiency and shelf life. The best long-term growth opportunities for this sector can be captured by ensuring ongoing process improvements and financial flexibility to invest in the optimal strategies. Company profile section of players such as Abbott Nutrition, Mead Johnson Nutritionals, Gerber Products Co - Nestle Infant Nutrition, Beech Nut Nutrition Corp (Hero), Plum Organics (Campbell Soup Company), The Hain Celestial Group Inc., Happy Family Group (Danone), Perrigo Company Plc. includes its basic information like legal name, website, headquarters, its market position, historical background and top 5 closest competitors by Market capitalization / revenue along with contact information. Each player/ manufacturer revenue figures, growth rate and gross profit margin is provided in easy to understand tabular format for past 5 years and a separate section on recent development like mergers, acquisition or any new product/service launch etc. Market Segments: The The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 Market has been divided into type, application, and region. On The Basis Of Region, this report is segmented into following key geographies, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), and market share, growth rate of The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 in these regions, from 2013 to 2023 (forecast), covering - North America (U.S. & Canada) {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Analysis (%) and Opportunity Analysis} - Latin America (Brazil, Mexico & Rest of Latin America) {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Share (%) and Opportunity Analysis} - Europe (The U.K., Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Poland, Sweden & RoE) {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Share (%) and Opportunity Analysis} - Asia-Pacific (China, India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Rest of Asia) {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Share (%) and Opportunity Analysis} - Middle East & Africa (GCC, South Africa, North Africa, RoMEA) {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Share (%) and Opportunity Analysis} - Rest of World {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Analysis (%) and Opportunity Analysis} Buy Single User License of The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=1692189 Have a look at some extracts from Table of Content Introduction about The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 Market Size (Sales) Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 2017 The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 Market by Application/End Users The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 Sales (Volume) and Market Share Comparison by Applications The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 Sales and Growth Rate (2013-2023) The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 Competition by Players/Suppliers, Region, Type and Application The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 (Volume, Value and Sales Price) table defined for each geographic region defined. The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 Players/Suppliers Profiles and Sales Data Additionally Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors list is being provided for each listed manufacturers The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 Manufacturing Cost Analysis The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 Key Raw Materials Analysis The Baby Food Sector in the US, 2019 Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers, Industrial Chain Analysis Market Forecast (2018-2023) ........and more in complete table of Contents Browse for Full Report at: https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/1692189-the-baby-food-sector-in-the-us-2019 Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia. Rockville, MD -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- From a regional perspective, Europe is projected to lead the global Basalt Fibers Market both in terms of production and consumption. Russia holds a significant share in the European basalt fiber market. The region has witnessed growing demand for basalt fibers from the automotive industry as there are stringent regulations prevailing in the EU regarding vehicle emissions and greenhouse gas amongst others. Moreover, the rising concern over energy conservation has also led to the growth of renewable wind energy generation industry. Thus, creating traction in the global market. North America is also projected to hold a significant share in the global basalt fibers market expanding at a CAGR of 8.3% over the forecast period. China is projected to grow at a relatively higher CAGR over the forecast period. A number of new players have ventured into the market to cater to the growing demand for basalt fibers in China and across other regions. Latin America and MEA are projected to remain low-volume-high-growth regions over the forecast period. Request For Report Sample Here - https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=1312 With the increasing use of light-weight composite material for the manufacture of automotive components and aircraft bodies, demand for basalt fibers continues to remain high. Basalt fibers are made by melting the crushed basalt rock in a furnace. This production process is an environment-friendly process without the production of any harmful infrared radiations. Basalt fibers have been widely used as an alternative for conventionally used steel and other fiber reinforcements owing to the superior mechanical, thermal and other properties. In the present scenario, there are only a few manufacturers for basalt fibers in Russia, China, Ukraine, and the U.S. amongst others. However, capacity additions and establishment of new production plants across North America, Europe and Asia Pacific region are expected to increase in the coming years, especially with the ongoing research and development and investments. Basalt fibers have exhibited better mechanical strength, chemical and thermal resistance, insulation and other properties. There has been an increase in the use of basalt fibers as an alternative to steel reinforcements owing to a number of properties such as corrosion resistance and light-weight, which allows mounting without the use of lifting or any other specialized equipment. Basalt fibers also outperform e-glass fiber in composites used for construction. In all the forms i.e. roving, chopped strands, fabrics, etc. basalt fibers have witnessed higher breaking load capacity and better durability and stiffness. Browse Complete Report Here https://www.factmr.com/report/1312/basalt-fibers-market In addition to these, basalt fibers are available at lower price and there has been a relative ease for raw material procurement. Owing to all the above mentioned benefits, there has been an expected upsurge in demand for basalt fibers over the forecast period. Another major factor significantly driving the growth of global basalt fibers market is the increase in the use of light-weight composite materials in automotive industry. The stringent regulations, especially, in North America and Europe region regarding vehicle emissions has led the manufacturers to focus on reduction of weight of vehicle. Basalt fibers are used as composites for the manufacture of vehicle and aircraft bodies as well as components such as exhaust mufflers and brake pads amongst others. The growing government spending for infrastructural and industrial development has led to a rise in the demand for basalt fibers as reinforcement material for the construction of roads, pavements and bridges amongst others. However, there are a few challenges with respect to the production of basalt fibers. For instance, the quality and exact chemical composition of the basalt rock required for the formation of basalt fibers is available at only specific locations in Eastern Europe. Therefore, though the raw material is available at cheap cost, it has to be imported. Moreover, the initial set up and equipment cost are quite high and require capital investment, thus posing a major challenge for the manufacturers. Buy Market Research Report Here - https://www.factmr.com/checkout/1312/S About FactMR FactMR is a fast-growing market research firm that offers the most comprehensive suite of syndicated and customized market research reports. We believe transformative intelligence can educate and inspire businesses to make smarter decisions. We know the limitations of the one-size-fits-all approach; that's why we publish multi-industry global, regional, and country-specific research reports. Contact Us FactMR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400, Rockville, MD 20852 United States Email: sales@factmr.com Web: https://www.factmr.com/ Blog: https://factmrblog.com/ New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- Under the scope of study on Bauxite Mining, we have covered detailed information about Bauxite Mining market structure, ongoing trends, value & volume projections, competition landscape and dynamics in the Bauxite Mining market, along with recent developments across the global market for the study period 2018 to 2026. The global market of Bauxite Mining is projected to grow at a significant CAGR of 6.6% and will reach US$ 20,661.9 Mn by the end of the 2026. Moreover, with growing demand for aluminum products across the globe, Bauxite Mining activities will increase and are expected to gain significant traction in the coming years. Moreover, growing adoption of aluminum products across the globe owing to their light weight and other such properties will be a key driver for the Bauxite Mining market. Request For Report Sample@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/3299 Alumina Segment Estimated to Hold Majority Share in Terms of Bauxite Consumption Bauxite is available in huge quantities across the globe. However, its mining and export patterns have changed significantly according to the availability of Bauxite. Bauxite is majorly consumed in the manufacturing of alumina within the aluminum industry. Approximately 6.5% of total Bauxite produced is consumed in non-metallurgical applications, such as in abrasives, refractories, chemicals and others. bauxite-mining-market.jpg Malaysia and Indonesia to Re-enter Bauxite Mining Market Indonesia has re-entered the Bauxite Mining market after the ban imposed on the export of Bauxite in 2014. The government of Indonesia had banned the export of Bauxite to enhance its own smelting industry. Furthermore, Malaysia is also expected to re-enter the Bauxite Mining market during the first half of 2019. The government of Malaysia had banned Bauxite Mining in the country in 2015 with an aim to curb growing pollution due to sudden expansion in Bauxite production in the country. The key reason behind this expansion of production in the country was to fill the supply gap in 2014 after the Indonesian government banned Bauxite export. Asia Pacific to Dominate the Global Bauxite Mining Market in Terms of Production and Consumption Asia Pacific is one of the most prominent regions in the global Bauxite Mining market. In terms of consumption, the region is estimated to hold more than 79.3% share in the global Bauxite Mining market by the end of 2028. Moreover, growing demand for aluminum products in the region can be attributed to infrastructural development and rapid establishment of various industries. Hence, growing demand for aluminum products from the region is anticipated to create healthy demand for Bauxite Mining in future. Furthermore, North America is estimated to hold minimal share in the global market. This can be attributed to the limited Bauxite reserves in the region. The region is importing alumina directly rather extracting it from Bauxite itself. Bauxite Mining Market Competitive Landscape The global market for Bauxite Mining is moderately consolidated. Tire 1 players hold the dominant share in the Bauxite Mining market. Moreover, the manufacturers are operating mining activities in multiple locations across the globe. Many manufacturers are operating mines in collaboration with other market players. Moreover, rather than providing the raw material i.e. Bauxite, manufacturers and governments of various regions are engaged in the manufacturing and supply of semi-finished or finished products (alumina or aluminum) directly to end users. Manufacturers having their own mines are engaged in further processing of alumina and are exporting the rest after captive consumption. Manufacturers who do not have their own Bauxite mines are importing Bauxite ore or alumina to feed their refinery/smelters. In the recent past, the Bauxite Mining market has witnessed significant developments from a competitive perspective. Collaborations, mergers and acquisitions are some of the key strategies being opted by prominent players to sustain in the global market of Bauxite Mining. Request For Report Table of Content (TOC)@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/methodology/3299 Some of the market participants covered in this global report on Bauxite Mining are Alcoa Corporation, Rio Tinto Plc, National Aluminium Company Limited, Australian Bauxite Ltd, Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Ltd, Norsk Hydro ASA, Metro Mining Ltd, ASHAPURA GROUP OF INDUSTRIES, The Aluminium Corporation of China and United Company Rusal PLC, among others. Rockville, MD -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Bedside monitor is a digital device which used in healthcare to record, view and supervision of physiological changes. Devices are attached with the patient body with the help of wires and send electronic signal to monitor. Basically device are multiple color and different graphical users and used in different ways depending on hospital needs when doctor or nurse wants to measure heart rate, respiration rate, blood pressure, temperature and breathing rate. Monitor has also alarm which used whenever body function needs any attention. In the ICU, monitor is normally used the entire time and that having modular design with easy interchange, display analysis and printing output. There are many types of bedside monitoring such as brain monitoring, multimodal monitoring, head trauma monitoring, neuro monitoring, on line data analysis, cerebral auto regulation and intensive care monitoring. Global Bedside Monitors Market Insights, Forecast to 2025: Drivers and Restraints The bedside monitors is electronic device that helps to provide report of physiological condition of the patient to hospital staff. Medical or hospital staff can evaluate patient's condition easy and better with the help of monitor's reports. Newly bedside monitors provide wireless monitoring of the patient and cause of this specification patient should be able move around and still monitoring. People can use bedside monitors to find out any healthcare information as well as another monitor's alarm status in the network. sBedside monitors dissemble in the ICU and operative room. Bedside monitoring is the integral part of care for patient. Some monitors output may be insufficient for intended application. Neonatal intensive care units is model of bedside monitoring for new born baby with critical condition and in brain hemodynamic. Bedside monitors can access the interbeds monitoring. Due to cross contamination, monitors also contaminated with pathogen. Bedside monitors help to deliver quality care. Request Free Sample Report@ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=2558 Global Bedside Monitors Market Insights, Forecast to 2025: Segmentation Bedside monitors are classified accordingly with simple flow to advanced homecare system. Based on end user as: Hospitals and clinics Clinical labs Ambulatory care centers Others Bedside monitors are classified into ECG device, IRLs, Event monitors and smart wearable ECG monitors Global Bedside Monitors Market Insights, Forecast to 2025: Overview Bedside monitors are classified into different product types according to the working unit it is placed in, with prominent manufacturers involved in bedside monitors market incorporate various products. The products range from bedside monitors providing the access to, peak flow meter, EEG, MEG, TCD, pulse oximeter, fetal monitoring, temperature, MCOT, ECG, , EMG, hemodynamic monitoring. Bedside monitors provides data which guide treatment and these are effortless monitoring. Bedside monitors are used in thermal diffusion cerebral blood flow, infra-red spectroscopy, micro dialysis and others. Bedside monitor is effective because of the sensor used in the manufacturing, with most of the market players also changing the trend of displays and workstations for the device. It provides the measurement and accuracy required in an instrument to be of prominent use. Leading companies will continue to uphold the growth of bedside monitor market. Present manufacturers of bedside monitors are leading their focus to defining the actual scope of the market with quality difference in their product offerings. Advanced technology has resulted in uplifting the market for bedside monitors, like IoT has made it easier in physicians to keep a check on patient with home care setting. Manufacturers focusing on developing bedside monitor, which is proficient of monitoring and directing every required parameters with greater working value, would continue to observe stronger market capitalization in the near future. Global Bedside Monitors Market Insights, Forecast to 2025: Regional Outlook Geographically, bedside market globally focuses on the pulse oximeter, fetal monitoring, temperature, MCOT, ECG, , EMG, hemodynamic monitoring in global market, especially in North America, Latin America, Europe, CIS & Russia, Japan, Asia Pacific Excluding Japan, Middle East and Africa. These area are still optimistic for investors cause of end users and their high demand of products, Demand of bedside monitors are increasing because of increasing personal and health consciousness for tracking heart rate , respiration rate or any kind of physiological activity. Major factor such as price analysis, supply chain analysis, political, social and technical also provide forecast number of market. Europe and Asia pacific region are also foresees to market moderate rate. Request/View TOC@ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=T&rep_id=2558 Global Bedside Monitors Market Insights, Forecast to 2025: Key Players Bedside monitors introduced by key players such as Johnson & Johnson, GE Healthcare, Roche, Medtronic, Abbott Laboratories, Bayer, Covidien, Becton Dickenson, BIOTRONIK SE & Co., Philips Healthcare, Nihon Kohen, Spacelabs Healthcare, cephalon and many more competes with small fragmented supply side of bedside monitors which features quality support and carry measurements required for patient care. The report is a compilation of first-hand information, qualitative and quantitative assessment by industry analysts, inputs from industry experts and industry participants across the value chain. The report provides in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies. The report covers exhaustive analysis on: Market Segments Market Dynamics Market Size Supply & Demand Current Trends/Issues/Challenges Competition & Companies involved Technology Value Chain Regional analysis includes North America (U.S., Canada) Latin America (Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Rest of Latin America) Europe [EU -4 (Germany, France, Italy, Spain), BENELUX (Belgium, Netherlands, Luxemburg), NORDIC (Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Sweden), Eastern Europe (Poland, Ukraine, Czech Rep. etc.), Rest of Europe CIS & Russia Japan APEJ (Greater China, India, S. Korea, ASEAN Countries and Rest of APEJ) Middle East & Africa (GCC Countries, Turkey, Iran, Israel, South Africa, Rest of MEA) Report Highlights: Detailed overview of parent market Changing market dynamics in the industry In-depth market segmentation Historical, current and projected market size in terms of volume and value Recent industry trends and developments Competitive landscape Strategies of key players and products offered Potential and niche segments, geographical regions exhibiting promising growth A neutral perspective on market performance Must-have information for market players to sustain and enhance their market footprint. Report Analysis@ https://www.factmr.com/report/2558/bedside-monitors-market About Fact.MR Fact.MR is a fast-growing market research firm that offers the most comprehensive suite of syndicated and customized market research reports. We believe transformative intelligence can educate and inspire businesses to make smarter decisions. We know the limitations of the one-size-fits-all approach; that's why we publish multi-industry global, regional, and country-specific research reports. Contact Us Rohit Bhisey Fact.MR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20852 United States Email: sales@factmr.com Web: https://www.factmr.com/ Blog: https://factmrblog.com/ Read Industry News at - http://theguardiantribune.com Los Angeles, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- Bioethanol offers higher-octane fuel alternative and is also used for energy oriented applications, such as power generation. Its applications in trucks, buses, airplanes, medical industry, and fuel cells is to lift the growth in the market. The blending of bioethanol with petrol can increase the life span of diminishing oil supplies and ensure greater fuel security globally. Bioethanol is also considered due to its biodegradability and low toxicity than fossil fuels. Demand for long-term energy security, especially from the emerging countries, and the eco-friendly nature of bio-alcohols are the factors that drive the growth of the market. However, consumption of food grains as feedstock is anticipated to hamper the market growth in the coming years due to increase in population. The volatile prices of crude oil is a major trend expected to create opportunities for bio-alcohols market. Germany was the largest producer and consumer of biofuels as of 2014.The stringent government regulations towards a greener and sustainable environment drive the Bio-alcohols market in Germany. However, the lack of availability of bio-based raw materials is still a major challenge the Germany market faces. The global Bio-Alcohols market is valued at xx million US$ in 2018 is expected to reach xx million US$ by the end of 2025, growing at a CAGR of xx% during 2019-2025. This report focuses on Bio-Alcohols volume and value at global level, regional level and company level. From a global perspective, this report represents overall Bio-Alcohols market size by analyzing historical data and future prospect. Regionally, this report focuses on several key regions: North America, Europe, China and Japan. At company level, this report focuses on the production capacity, ex-factory price, revenue and market share for each manufacturer covered in this report. Get PDF Version of this Report at https://www.qyresearch.com/sample-form/form/987903/global-bio-alcohols-market The following manufacturers are covered: BioAmber Cargill Myriant BASF Mitsubishi Chemicals ... Segment by Regions North America Europe China Japan Segment by Type Bioethanol Biomethanol Biobutanol BDO Segment by Application Transportation Infrastructure Medical Get Complete Report Within 24 hours at https://www.qyresearch.com/settlement/pre/74588fe90bd682bd0acd50f627c792ad,0,1,Global%20Bio-Alcohols%20Market%20Study%20Report%202019 About QYResearch QYResearch always pursuits high product quality with the belief that quality is the soul of business. Through years of effort and supports from huge number of customer supports, QYResearch consulting group has accumulated creative design methods on many high-quality markets investigation and research team with rich experience. Today, QYResearch has become the brand of quality assurance in consulting industry. Los Angeles, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Bioceramics referred to as ceramics that are used to repair and reconstruction of damaged or diseased parts of the musculo-skeletal system. These inclusively used in dental implants and in orthopedics to replace hard tissue in the body like bone and teeth. Alumina zirconia and a form of calcium phosphate known as hydroxyapatite are the common bioceramics used. The increasing demand for healthcare facilities, technical advancement, rising disposable income, growing aging population and rising incidences of osteoarthritis are main factors contributing to the growth of market. Growing aging population has led to rising incidences of osteoarthritis, which will increase bioceramics consumption for knee and hip joint replacements and implants. North American regional market expected to grow in terms value. The reason being, growing research in bioceramics, rise in cancer occurrences, rise in occurrence of cardiovascular diseases in the United States and increasing R&D activities and funding in Canada. On the other hand, Asia Pacific regional market is growing at fastest pace in the orthopedic sector. This is mainly due to rapid growth of elderly population. China is the major consumer of Bioceramics Industry, as people are gaining access to advanced medical treatment. The global Bioceramics market is valued at xx million US$ in 2018 is expected to reach xx million US$ by the end of 2025, growing at a CAGR of xx% during 2019-2025. This report focuses on Bioceramics volume and value at global level, regional level and company level. From a global perspective, this report represents overall Bioceramics market size by analyzing historical data and future prospect. Regionally, this report focuses on several key regions: North America, Europe, China and Japan. At company level, this report focuses on the production capacity, ex-factory price, revenue and market share for each manufacturer covered in this report. Get your Sample Copy of Report @https://www.qyresearch.com/sample-form/form/988182/global-bioceramics-forecast-amp-opportunities The following manufacturers are covered: Carborundum Universal CeramTec Royal DSM Sagemax Bioceramics ... Segment by Regions North America Europe China Japan Segment by Type Zirconia Alumina Others Segment by Application Orthopedics Dental Benefits of Purchasing QY Research Report - Analyst Support: Get you query resolved from our expert analysts before and after purchasing the report - Customer's Satisfaction: Our expert team will assist with all your research needs and customize the report - Inimitable Expertise: Analysts will provide deep insights about the reports - Assured Quality: We focus on the quality and accuracy of the report Get Full Report for USD 2900, delivery time within 24 hours @https://www.qyresearch.com/settlement/pre/37a8cd427614774f04b73ae4c23b30e3,0,1,Global%20Bioceramics%20Forecast About QYResearch QYResearch always pursuits high product quality with the belief that quality is the soul of business. Through years of effort and supports from huge number of customer supports, QYResearch consulting group has accumulated creative design methods on many high-quality markets investigation and research team with rich experience. Today, QYResearch has become the brand of quality assurance in consulting industry. Los Angeles, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Bioelectronics contribute and evaluate the new technologies to expand the biological sector that enable in raising the efficiency of the medical community. Bioelectronics adopted various number of ideas, methods and technology which are bio electromagnetics, instrumentation, neural networks, robotics, and sensor technologies. First of all?the reason for growth of Bioelectronics and Biosensors market is that Increasing demand for diagnostic as well as monitoring devices such as blood cardiac pacemakers, glucose level and other implantable medical devices.Rising incidence and prevalence rate of diabetes positively influence the biosensors market. Second?North America is expected to gain the dominance due to large number of application in numerous healthcare sectors is expected to boost the demand in the region The global Bioelectronics and Biosensors market is valued at 16500 million US$ in 2018 is expected to reach 32200 million US$ by the end of 2025, growing at a CAGR of 10.0% during 2019-2025. This report focuses on Bioelectronics and Biosensors volume and value at global level, regional level and company level. From a global perspective, this report represents overall Bioelectronics and Biosensors market size by analyzing historical data and future prospect. Regionally, this report focuses on several key regions: North America, Europe, China and Japan. At company level, this report focuses on the production capacity, ex-factory price, revenue and market share for each manufacturer covered in this report. Get PDF Report Template @ https://www.qyresearch.com/sample-form/form/987973/global-bioelectronics-and-biosensors-industry The following manufacturers are covered: Bayer Abbott Point of Care F. Hoffmann-La Roche AgaMatrix Medtronic Nova Biomedical Corp LifeSensors ... Segment by Regions North America Europe China Japan Segment by Type Electrochemical Biosensors Thermal Biosensors Piezoelectric Biosensors Optical Biosensors Segment by Application Care Testing Home Healthcare Diagnostics Food Industry Research Laboratories Get Complete Report in your Inbox within 24 hours @ https://www.qyresearch.com/settlement/pre/69f10f966b0b78b6f4acf3c1b4d4ab34,0,1,Global%20Bioelectronics%20and%20Biosensors%20Industry%20Analysis%20and%20Trends%20Forecast%20to%202025 Benefits of Purchasing QY Research Report Analyst Support: Get you query resolved from our expert analysts before and after purchasing the report Customer's Satisfaction: Our expert team will assist with all your research needs and customize the report Inimitable Expertise: Analysts will provide deep insights about the reports Assured Quality: We focus on the quality and accuracy of the report About QYResearch QYResearch always pursuits high product quality with the belief that quality is the soul of business. Through years of effort and supports from huge number of customer supports, QYResearch consulting group has accumulated creative design methods on many high-quality markets investigation and research team with rich experience. Today, QYResearch has become the brand of quality assurance in consulting industry. New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- Global demand for bromine market will reach 483 kilo metric tons (KMT) in 2016, up from 470 KMT in 2015. Demand will be impeded by growing regulation and legislation, especially in the European Union (EU), where the use of certain brominated flame retardants is banned or restricted. Flame retardants will continue to remain the largest application segment, accounting for 203 KMT volume in 2016, a y-o-y increase of 2.8% over 2015. Use of bromine in oil and gas drilling will continue its upward momentum in 2016, growing at 4.3% in terms of volume the fastest among all the application segments. Request for Report Sample@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/4274 The chemicals industry will remain the largest consumer of bromine, accounting for 292 KMT volume in 2016, representing market value worth 1,284 Mn. Use of bromine in the oil and gas sector will also continue to witness steady growth, as clear brine fluids gain traction for drilling purposes. Demand will be offset by sluggish adoption in the electronics industry, as use of brominated flame retardants continues to face stricter regulations. Demand for bromine from electronics sector will witness a growth rate of 2.1% in 2016 over 2015. Asia Pacific will remain the largest market for bromine, representing annual revenues worth US$ 1,087 Mn in 2016, up from 895 Mn in 2015. This is primarily due to expansion of end-use industries such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and electronic in APAC. Latin America will continue to offer growth opportunities to manufacturers, with global demand witnessing a 2.0% volume growth in 2016 over 2015. Demand will face constraints in the mature markets of North America and Western Europe in 2016 as well. Request for Report Table of Content (TOC) @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/methodology/4274 Israel Chemicals Limited, Chemtura Corporation, Albemarle Corporation, Gulf Resources Inc., Tosoh Corporation, Tetra Technologies Inc., Tata Chemicals Limited and Hindustan Salts Limited are the key players in the market. Top players are continuously focusing on expanding their product offerings, especially in flame retardants segments. Collaborations and joint ventures are key business strategies to develop green brominated flame retardants. Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- Clomazone is an agrochemical which comprises Isoxazole which is bound to a 2-chlorobenzyl group. The compound is responsible for suppressing the biosynthesis of chlorophyll and other pigments. The compound serves as a herbicide in the agrochemical industry, and is sold under different brand names such as "Commence", "Command", and "Kalif". Although the market for clomazone has been growing in most of the regions, it hasn't seen a similar trend in emerging economies such as China over the past few years. Several manufacturers of clomazone have ceased the production of the compound, citing issues such as higher production cost as well as production barriers pertaining to pollution. Other than production, the herbicide is sold to areas such as Northeast of China. In addition, more than half of the clomazone manufactured in China is exported to various developed and emerging regions such as North America, South America, and Europe. Read Report Overview @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/clomazone-market.html The global market for clomazone has been witnessing a noticeable increase owing to growth of the herbicides industry. Growing demand for organic food is also expected to boost the demand for clomazone in herbicides over the forecast period. Over the recent years, the global industry for organic food has witnessed significant growth. Rising concerns of consumers in terms of environmental protection, and food safety are some of the major reasons driving the growth of the organic food industry. The growth of such agrochemicals in emerging economies is anticipated to provide new opportunities for the clomazone market. In addition to improving the food security, agriculture also plays an important role in enhancing the economic growth of emerging economies. Approximately one billion of the global population does not have proper access to adequate nutrition and food. Increasing focus of the seed industry towards crop protection is leading towards the development of various methods for seed treatment, which in turn are boosting the demand for herbicides thereby fueling the demand for clomazone. Clomazone is widely used in various fruit and other crops such as apple and rice. Clomazone helps keep crops disease free and healthy, thereby enhancing the productivity of farmers. The crop industry is focused on protecting crops from various diseases and pests. Different methods of crop protection such as usage of herbicides and seed treatment are being implemented by farmers worldwide. Clomazone is less toxic in nature vis-a-vis other herbicides; as a result, it has garnered global approval for usage in fruit and rice crops. Demand for weed removing chemicals such as clomazone is likely to rise over the next few years, led by rising production of food sources such as apples and rice. Request Report Brochure @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=4025 Demand for clomazone was highest in North America owing to prevalence of the significant genetically modified crops industry where these herbicides are used for seed treatment purposes. Asia-Pacific is likely to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period despite recent market slowdown in China. Emerging countries such as China and India are expected to dominate the clomazone industry due to the increasing awareness for organic food among the population generated by government support. Environmental hazards associated with other herbicides coupled with the promotion of clomazone by certain government agencies to create awareness among the masses are other vital factors driving the market. The market is expected to be the largest in countries such as Argentina and Brazil due to the consumption of clomazone on a large scale in the genetically modified crop industry. Harrisburg, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Global Contrast Media (Contrast Agents) Market Insights, Forecast To 2025 The report discusses many vital industry facets that influence global Contrast Media (Contrast Agents) industry acutely which includes extensive study of competitive edge, latest advancements, region-wise industry environment, contemporary market and manufacturing trends, leading market contenders, and current consumption tendency of the end user. The report also oversees market size, market share, growth rate, revenue, and CAGR reported previously along with its forecast estimation. The global Contrast Media (Contrast Agents) market is valued at 4790 million US$ in 2018 and will reach 6970 million US$ by the end of 2025, growing at a CAGR of 4.8% during 2019-2025. Avail a sample 113 pages copy before purchase: https://www.marketinsightsreports.com/reports/03141148348/global-contrast-media-contrast-agents-market-insights-forecast-to-2025/inquiry?source=releasewire&Mode=21 Global Contrast Media (Contrast Agents) market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, and revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players including: GE, Bayer, Bracco Imaging, Guerbet Group, Hengrui Medicine, Lantheus, YRPG, BeiLu Pharma Market segment by Type, the product can be split into X-ray & CT Contrast Media MRI Contrast Media Ultrasound Contrast Media Market segment by Application, Contrast Media (Contrast Agents) can be split into Hospitals Clinics (Special Offer: Get flat 15% discount on this report) Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), and market share and growth rate of Contrast Media (Contrast Agents) Market these regions, from 2019 to 2025 (forecast), covering North America, United States, Canada, Mexico, Asia-Pacific, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Europe, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, Russia, Central & South America, Brazil, Rest of Central & South America, Middle East & Africa, GCC Countries, Turkey, Egypt, South Africa Market Regional Analysis: The classification of contrast media includes X-ray & CT contrast media, MRI contrast media, ultrasound contrast media, and the proportion of X-ray & CT contrast media in 2017 is about 86%. Contrast media is widely used in hospitals and clinics. The most proportion of contrast media is used in hospitals and the revenue in 2017 is 3796 M USD. North America is the largest consumption place, with a consumption market share nearly 32% in 2017. Following North America, Europe is the second largest consumption place with the consumption market share of 28%. Market competition is intense. GE, Bayer, Bracco Imaging, etc. are the leaders of the industry, and they hold key technologies and patents, with high-end customers; have been formed in the monopoly position in the industry. The global Contrast Media (Contrast Agents) market is valued at 4790 million US$ in 2018 and will reach 6970 million US$ by the end of 2025, growing at a CAGR of 4.8% during 2019-2025. The objectives of this study are to define, segment, and project the size of the Contrast Media (Contrast Agents) market based on company, product type, end user and key regions. *Contrast Media (Contrast Agents) Market Report Highlights: 1) The report provides a detailed analysis on current and future market trends to identify the investment opportunities 2) Market forecasts till 2025, using estimated market values as the base numbers 3) Key market trends across the business segments, Regions and Countries 4) Key developments and strategies observed in the market 5) In-depth company profiles of key players and upcoming prominent players 6) Growth prospects among the emerging nations through 2025 7) Market opportunities and recommendations for new investments Purchase Full Report Copy at: https://www.marketinsightsreports.com/reports/03141148348/global-contrast-media-contrast-agents-market-insights-forecast-to-2025?source=releasewire&Mode=21 Furthermore, the report also assesses the key opportunities available in the market and outlines the factors that are and will be driving the growth of the industry. Growth of the global Contrast Media (Contrast Agents) market has also been forecasted for the period 2019-2025, taking into consideration the previous growth patterns, the growth drivers and the current and future trends. The report includes an in-depth analysis of the industrial value chain, which provides a detailed view of the Contrast Media (Contrast Agents) Market. The Porter's Five Forces model for the market has also been studied, in order to help understand the competitive scenario in the market. The study includes market attractiveness analysis, wherein the end-users are standardized, on the basis of the market size, overall attractiveness, and growth rate. *Target Audience: -Contrast Media Manufacturers and Distributors -Companies Manufacturing X-ray, CT, MRI, Ultrasound, and Cath Lab Equipment -Niche Companies Manufacturing Novel Contrast Agents -Radiology Centers -Medical Imaging & Nuclear Medicine Consultants -Health Insurance Players -Research and Consulting Firms Get Exclusive Discount at: https://www.marketinsightsreports.com/reports/03141148348/global-contrast-media-contrast-agents-market-insights-forecast-to-2025?source=releasewire&Mode=21 Competitive Landscape *Competition Benchmarking: Benchmarking of leading 20 players on the basis of product portfolio, production plants, market pricing, sales footprint, target customer types, etc. *Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in global Contrast Media (Contrast Agents) market. *Product Benchmarking: Benchmarking of most selling variant of all leading companies on the basis of major technical parameters. In-depth analysis of benchmarking and recommendation on ideal product specifications If you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want. Customization of the Report The report could be customized according to the client's specific research requirements. No additional cost will be required to pay for limited additional research. Contact US : Irfan Tamboli (Head of Sales) Market Insights Reports Phone: + 1704 266 3234 Mob: +91-750-707-8687 sales@marketinsightsreports.com irfan@marketinsightsreports.com New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Study papers on Contrast Media/Contrast Agents(ADHD) Drugs Market and regional forecast Contrast Media/Contrast Agents(ADHD) Drugs Market top players including are GE Healthcare, Bayer, Bracco Imaging, Guerbet, Lantheus, Daiichi Sankyo, Unijules Life Sciences, Spago Nanomedical, J.B. Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals, Magnus Health, Taejoon Pharm, Jodas. Download FREE Sample Brochure of Contrast Media/Contrast Agents(ADHD) Drugs Market @ https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com/sample/25359 The recent report, Contrast Media/Contrast Agents(ADHD) Drugs Market fundamentally discovers insights that enable stakeholders, business owners and field marketing executives to make effective investment decisions driven by facts rather than guesswork. The study aims at listening, analyzing and delivering actionable data on the competitive landscape to meet the unique requirements of the companies and individuals operating in the Contrast Media/Contrast Agents(ADHD) Drugs Market for the forecast period, 2019 to 2025. To enable firms to understand the Contrast Media/Contrast Agents(ADHD) Drugs industry in various ways the report thoroughly assesses the share, size and growth rate of the business worldwide. The study explores what the future Contrast Media/Contrast Agents(ADHD) Drugs Market will look like. Most importantly, the research familiarizes product owners with whom the immediate competitors are and what buyers expect and what are the effective business strategies adopted by prominent leaders. To help both established companies and new entrants not only see the disruption but also see opportunities. In-depth exploration of how the industry behaves, including assessment of government bodies, financial organization and other regulatory bodies. Beginning with a macroeconomic outlook, the study drills deep into the sub-categories of the industry and evaluation of the trends influencing the business. Purchase Contrast Media/Contrast Agents(ADHD) Drugs Market Research Report@ https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com/checkout/25359 Global Contrast Media/Contrast Agents(ADHD) Drugs Market Analysis by Application Radiology Interventional Radiology Interventional Cardiology The extensive documentation of the Contrast Media/Contrast Agents(ADHD) Drugs industry gives access to all the factors expected to influence the growth prospect of the business worldwide. Nobel effort to capture the factors that impede the growth of the market is clearly visible in the report. These factors result in an effective and reliable branding and promotion and marketing plan. In addition, comprehensive coverage of recent advancements, product nearing development stage, project pipeline, and major industrial players offer all the confidence a business owner needs to design a business strategy that will drive company's success. Understanding what the audience is looking for in a report the researchers behind this attunes deliverables according to their needs such as product price, demand and supply status, end-use, profit and others. By operating in close alignment with the major vendors, the researchers have customized the literature based on universal perspective as well as comprehensive knowledge of the local business owners. The document further aims at addressing the different challenges and opportunities of carrying out business operations in North America and beyond. View Full Report With TOC @ https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com/25359/contrast-mediacontrast-agents-market The Research Provides Answers to the Following Key Questions: 1)What is the size of occupied by the prominent leaders for the forecast period, 2019 to 2025? What will be the share and the growth rate of the Contrast Media/Contrast Agents(ADHD) Drugs Market during the forecast period? 2)Which companies are dominating the competitive landscape across different region and what strategies have they applied to gain a competitive edge? 3)What are the major factors responsible for the growth of the Contrast Media/Contrast Agents(ADHD) Drugs Market across the different regions? 4)What are the challenges faced by the companies operating in the Contrast Media/Contrast Agents(ADHD) Drugs Market? 5)What are the future prospects for the Contrast Media/Contrast Agents(ADHD) Drugs Market industry in the coming years? 6)Which trends are likely to contribute to the development rate of the Contrast Media/Contrast Agents(ADHD) Drugs industry during the forecast period, 2019 to 2025? 7)What are the future prospects of the Contrast Media/Contrast Agents(ADHD) Drugs industry for the forecast period, 2019 to 2025? People Also Viewed:- Contrast Injectors Market Insights - Global Trends, Opportunities, Analysis and Forecast by 2025 @ https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com/21812/contrast-injectors-market MRI Contrast Agents Market Technology, Specifications, Production, Growth Rate And Forecast To 2025 @ https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com/34832/mri-contrast-agents-market About Market Growth Insight Market Growth Insight is a one stop solution for market research reports in various business categories. We are serving 100+ clients with 10000+ diverse industry reports and our reports are developed to simplify strategic decision making, on the basis of comprehensive and in-depth significant information, established through wide ranging analysis and latest industry trends. Contact us : 502, Sai Radhe, Kenedy Road, Behind Hotel Sheraton Grand, Near Pune Station, Pune-411001, Maharashtra, India. sales@marketgrowthinsight.com + 91 8956 049 020 Connect With Us : Twitter | Linkedin | Facebook | Google+ Los Angeles, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- The control cables are PVC insulated and PVC sheathed control cables suitable for industrial and mining enterprises, energy transportation departments, and applications where the rated voltage is 450/750 volts or less and the protection circuit is used. The control cable has the features of moisture resistance, anti-corrosion and anti-damage, and can be laid in tunnels or cable trenches. First of all, increasing demand for Control Cable is expected to result in the growth of the market. Second, the global market for Control Cable Market is segmented into America, South America, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC), and Middle East & Africa (MEA). In China, the sustainable and rapid growth of China's economy provides a huge market space for cable products. The strong attraction of the Chinese market has led the world to focus on the Chinese market. In the short period of reform and opening up, China's cable manufacturing industry and huge production capacity created makes the world impressed. With the continuous expansion of China's power industry, data communication industry, urban rail transit industry, automobile industry and shipbuilding industry, the demand for Control Cable Market will also grow rapidly. The wire and cable industry in the future will have enormous potential for development. The global Control Cable market is valued at xx million US$ in 2018 is expected to reach xx million US$ by the end of 2025, growing at a CAGR of xx% during 2019-2025. This report focuses on Control Cable volume and value at global level, regional level and company level. From a global perspective, this report represents overall Control Cable market size by analyzing historical data and future prospect. Regionally, this report focuses on several key regions: North America, Europe, China and Japan. At company level, this report focuses on the production capacity, ex-factory price, revenue and market share for each manufacturer covered in this report. Get PDF Report Template @ https://www.qyresearch.com/sample-form/form/987980/global-control-cable-manufacturers-profiles-market The following manufacturers are covered: General Cable Technologies Belden Multi / cable Corporation Orient Cables Nexans Prysmian Teldor Techno Flex Cables Thermo Cables Texcan Segment by Regions North America Europe China Japan Segment by Type PUR (Polyvinyl chloride) PVC(Polyurethane) TPE(Thermoplastic Elastomers) Segment by Application Marine Industries Agricultural Industries Construction Plant Industries Bulk Handling Equipment Industries Motor Sport Industries Road Transport Industries Get Complete Report in your Inbox within 24 hours @ https://www.qyresearch.com/settlement/pre/8e3d342d57b9e891485aa9f310dc88f2,0,1,Global%20Control%20Cable%20Manufacturers%20Profiles,%20Market%20Size%20and%20Market%20Share%202019 Benefits of Purchasing QY Research Report Analyst Support: Get you query resolved from our expert analysts before and after purchasing the report Customer's Satisfaction: Our expert team will assist with all your research needs and customize the report Inimitable Expertise: Analysts will provide deep insights about the reports Assured Quality: We focus on the quality and accuracy of the report About QYResearch QYResearch always pursuits high product quality with the belief that quality is the soul of business. Through years of effort and supports from huge number of customer supports, QYResearch consulting group has accumulated creative design methods on many high-quality markets investigation and research team with rich experience. Today, QYResearch has become the brand of quality assurance in consulting industry Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Cosmetic ingredient market has changed a lot over the course of time. Since time immemorial, human beings are using different types of cosmetics to enhance their physical appearance, which in turn makes people feel more confident and pleasing in nature. It is due to growing demand for beauty products that market is flooded with various cosmetic products. The multibillion dollar industry is growing at a lightning speed to meet the consumer demand. Cosmetic ingredients are the specific sets of substance that are used in the formulation and composition of cosmetics. Any kind of impurities in raw materials and subsidiary technical materials are not considered as ingredients, hence water is also considered as separate ingredient. At present, various cosmetic business entrepreneurs use more than 5000 available cosmetic ingredients to offer selected cosmetics products. Request For Report Sample @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-519 Cosmetic Industry: Drivers & Restraints The demand for good quality cosmetic products is fuelling the cosmetic ingredient market. Changing lifestyle specially in developing regions of Asia Pacific and Latin America brings a sea of opportunities to cosmetic ingredients manufacturers and suppliers. Increase in per capita income, rising awareness about beautification and increasingly urbanized population is offering momentum to the growth of overall cosmetic industry which in turn is escalating the cosmetic ingredients market to its zenith. Though cosmetic industry market size is growing at an impressive rate, various regulations prohibiting the use of certain chemicals as ingredients is a major challenge to the cosmetic ingredients manufacturers. In APAC, China and ASEAN regions are some of the most lucrative regions for increase in consumer spending and rise in GDP. Cosmetic Ingredients Market: Segmentation On the basis of product type, the global cosmetic ingredients market is segmented into, Surfactants Emulsifiers Antimicrobials UV absorbers Emollients Conditioning Polymers Others Alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxyl acids and talc are some of the examples of commonly used cosmetics ingredients. Among all these product type, surfactants are expected to hold the market dominance throughout the forecast period, however, conditioning polymers is projected to grow at the highest CAGR between 2015 and 2025. On the basis of end-use applications, cosmetic ingredients market is segmented into Skin Care Nail Care Make up Others Skin care and make up are the two most lucrative markets for chemical ingredients manufacturers. Together, they account more than onefourth of total cosmetic ingredients market. Changing lifestyle and increasing awareness about skin care is boosting the demand for skin care applications. Cosmetic Ingredients Market: Region-wise Outlook On the basis of region, cosmetic ingredients finds its market scope in North America, Latin America, Middle East & Africa, Europe and Asia-Pacific. North America and Europe dominates the cosmetic ingredients, however, Asia Pacific and Latin America are expected to be the most promising region in terms of incremental opportunities lying ahead for generating high revenue. Cosmetic ingredient market is highly regulated in Europe and North America. China, India and ASEAN are the key promising countries driving the cosmetic ingredients market in Asia-Pacific. Rapid growth of urbanization coupled with growing desire for skin care is expected to offer above average growth to cosmetic ingredients market in Asia-Pacific. Brazil leads the cosmetic market followed by Mexico in Latin America. As per the CANIPEC, the Mexican personal care industry's national chamber and association, there are more than 64 business enterprises operating in personal care market that are worth approximately US$ 14 billion in Mexico. Cosmetic Ingredients Market: Key Players Company needs to meet the stringent quality norms before marketing their key ingredients. It is due to these factors that the market in North America and Europe is consolidated and is dominated by list of key cosmetic ingredient manufacturers and suppliers. Some of the market participants in the global cosmetic ingredients market are BASF SE, The Dow Chemical Co., Ashland Inc., Rhodia, DuPont Tata & Lyle Bio Products, Sederma Inc., Sumitomo Group, etc. Companies are investing heavily and are entering into mergers and acquisitions to tap the cosmetic ingredient market potential globally. For instance, Sumitomo Group is expected to acquire active cosmetic ingredient business from Kyowa Hakko Europe GmbH in order to advance its cosmetic ingredient business in Europe. Request For Report Table of Content (TOC): https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-519 Going through these points, there is no doubt that cosmetic ingredients market hold good market prospects in near future, thereby is anticipated to grow at impressive CAGR during the forecast period, 20152025. Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Transparency Market Research has published a new report titled, "Electric Bus Market (Electrification Type, Bus Type, Component, Battery, Operation, and Region) - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast, 2018 2026". According to the report, the global electric bus market is anticipated to surpass US$ 165 Bn by 2026, expanding at a CAGR of more than 24% during the forecast period. Report Analysis@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/electric-bus-market.html The market for electric vehicle is anticipated to expand at a significant growth rate during the forecast period owing to rising stringency of emission norms and increasing pollution levels in the environment. Air pollution harms human health, particularly in those already vulnerable owing to their age or existing health problems, thus responsible authorities are taking several steps to minimize pollution levels across the globe. Rising demand for environment-friendly vehicles is likely to boost the market for electric buses. Lower running and maintenance cost of these vehicles is anticipated to attract private firms to adopt electric buses for transportation purpose. Furthermore, large subsidies offered by governments to encourage the adoption of electric buses is likely to be a key factor driving the electric bus market. High price of electric buses and need for charging stations are projected to hamper the electric bus market; however, significant reduction in battery price is likely to reduce the price of an electric bus during the forecast period. Moreover, longer lifespan of the electric bus with lower noise production are projected to propel the market for electric bus during the forecast period. Request a Sample - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=44898 Rise in pollution levels in highly populous cities is significantly boosting the electric bus market. Most cities with rising traffic congestion are encouraging the adoption of public transport, which is anticipated to lead to the rise in demand for public transport services, thus adoption of electric buses, instead of conventional buses, is expected to significantly reduce pollution levels during the forecast period. Asia Pacific and Europe are highly lucrative markets for electric buses. The electric bus market in China has expanded at a rapid pace in the last few years in order to tackle the pollution levels in some of its most polluted cities, such as Shenzhen. The electric bus market in other countries in Asia Pacific, such as India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and Singapore, is anticipated to expand at a considerable pace during the forecast period owing to various steps taken by the governments of these countries to promote electric buses. In terms of electrification type, the battery electric vehicle segment is likely to expand at a rapid pace in all the regions owing to their zero emission capability. In countries and sub-regions of Asia Pacific, such as India and Rest of Asia Pacific, local manufacturers, such as TATA Motors and Ashok Leyland, have entered into the production of hybrid buses which is estimated to boost the hybrid bus segment at a remarkable pace during the forecast period. However, the battery electric bus segment is likely to gain market share held by the hybrid bus segment by the end of the forecast period, owing to rising stringency of emission norms and higher advantages of battery electric buses over plug-in hybrid and hybrid buses. Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Europic chloride is also known as Europium trichloride, Europium chloride (EuCl3), Europium chloride (Eu2Cl6), Europium chloride (VAN), and Europium (III) chloride anhydrous. Europium is available in high quality minerals such as calcium aluminum silicates. It is a soft and silvery metal such as lead. Europium is known to be the rarest and most reactive earth metals (minerals, monazite, bastnasite, xenotime, and loparite). Monazite metal comprises rare earth elements (up to 50% concentrations). Monazite can be found in river sand in countries such as Brazil, South Africa, and India. Bastnasite is also one of the rarest earth metal found in the desert called Mojave in California. Europium is primarily used in light emitting compounds called phosphors. The accessibility of brighter red phosphors is used to get brighter colored televisions. Europium oxide phosphors provide red and blue light, which can be used individually or in combination of yellow-green phosphor to provide white light. Europium phosphors are used in fluorescent lighting, televisions, and some LEDs. Additionally, europium is used in lasers and other optoelectronic applications. Read Report Overview @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/europic-chloride-market.html Europic chloride (EuCl3) is an inorganic compound. It is also called as Europium (III) chloride anhydrous. The anhydrous compound can rapidly absorb water to form a white crystalline hexahydrate (EuCl36H2O), which is a yellow solid. White crystalline hexahydrate is colorless. Europic chloride is one of the excellent water soluble crystalline sources. These chloride compounds can generate electricity when dissolved or fused in water. Chloride materials can be decomposed by electrolysis into metal and chlorine gas, which are formed through various chlorination processes. In energy efficient fluorescent lighting, Europic metals provides red as well as blue lighting. Europium is found in various minerals such as monazite, bastnasite, loparite and xenotime. Growth in the chemical industry is expected to drive the europic chemical application, as it is one of the rarest found metals in earth core. Inhalation Europic chemical causes immediate defecation, writhing, incoordination, labored breathing, and inactivity. It can also cayuse death due to respiratory and heart failure. Therefore, it is not used as a commercial source. The Europic chloride market has been segmented based on application and regions. Based on application, the market has been segmented into food industry, marine industry, chemical and petrochemical industry, and others. In terms of application, the Europic chloride market can be divided into desalination, which has the property to remove chloride salts to provide drinkable water. In the petroleum industry, Europic chlorides are thoroughly monitored constituents of the mud system. Increase of europic chloride may be a sign of drilling into a high-pressure saltwater formation in the mud system. Increase of europic chlorides in the mud system also indicates the poor quality of the target sand. Europic chloride is also a valuable and reliable chemical. Europic chloride may also be used to preserve food in the food & beverages industry. Request to view Sample Report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=20489 Based on region, the market can be segmented into North America, Latin America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and Middle East & Africa. Globally, the rarest earth metal, i.e. europium oxide, is mostly produced in China. Europium oxide (Eu2O3) plays an important role in computer display screens and color televisions as a phosphor for emitting pure red light. It is a red spectrum light used in low-energy light bulbs to create a more warm light than the traditional fluorescent tubes. Europium is widely employed in the medical field, as the highly sensitive luminescence. Europe and North America are the key regions driving the Europic chloride market. These regions accounted for more than 40% share of the market in 2015. Demand for Europic chloride is high in Europe as it is used as de-icing agent. Demand for Europic chloride is high in North America due to the growth in chemicals and petrochemical industries. The market in Asia Pacific is also projected to experience significant growth primarily due to the rising demand for Europic chloride in various end-use industries. Furthermore, increase in governmental expenditure on infrastructure is likely to boost the global Europic chloride market during the forecast period. Key players operating in the global Europic chloride market are TCI Chemicals (India) Pvt. Ltd., American Elements, Santa Cruz Biotechnology, Inc., MaTecK GmbH, ESPICorp Inc., Stanford Advanced Materials, and Strem Chemicals, Inc. San Jose, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- Excavator Market: A Comprehensive Presentation of Potential Growth Opportunities for Stakeholders A recently compiled report of XploreMR, titled "Global Excavator Market: Forecast, Trend Analysis & Competition Tracking Global Review 2017 to 2026," provides a comprehensive analysis on development of the excavator market worldwide. Size of the excavator market has been evaluated for the historical period (2012-2017) and forecast period (2018-2027), and has been delivered in terms of value (US$ million) and volume (units). The report also offers a detailed analysis and forecast on key segments and the competitive landscape of the excavator market. The report by XploreMR also offers historical data and forecast on the excavator market. The latest report on excavator market focuses on the factors impacting the growth and provides key insights on the market. The report also offers qualitative and quantitative analysis of the excavator market. The study includes on the factors influencing the growth of the excavator market globally. The primary objective of the XploreMR report is to offer updates on trends, drivers, restraints, value forecasts and opportunities for manufacturers, distributors, and other stakeholders in the excavator market. Get Sample Copy of this report @ https://www.xploremr.com/connectus/sample/3434 Competitive landscape along the growth opportunities for the key players in the excavator market are provided in the report. Detailed profiles of excavator manufacturers have also been featured within the scope of the report to explain in details their short-term and long-term business strategies, key financials, key offerings, and recent developments in the excavator market. Chapter 1 Global Compact Wheel Loader Market - Global Outlook The XploreMR report of excavator market commences with offering an outlook of the excavator market, which includes information about global developments, and the impact of global population, GDP, and automotive industry on the excavator market. This mainly features macroeconomic factors that are influencing growth of the excavator market. Chapter 2 Global Excavator Market - Executive Summary A succinct summary of the excavator market has been offered in the second chapter of the report, which gives a synopsis of key findings in the market, along with information on the automotive industry's structure. Mega trends impacting growth of the excavator market have also been highlighted in this chapter. Opportunity assessment for companies operating in the excavator market has been given with the aid of Wheel of Fortune. Chapter 3 Global Excavator Market Overview The report offers a concise overview of the excavator market, which includes an introduction to the excavator market, along with a definition of the target product excavator. A systematic breakdown of the excavator market has been offered in this chapter, which implies scope of the research involved. Size of the excavator market has been evaluated in terms of volume (units) as well as value (US$ million), and forecast on the excavator market has been offered for the period between 2018 and 2026. This chapter also includes information about value chain, cost structure, outlook of the global construction industry, global infrastructure spending, major construction projects, road infrastructure scenario, investment feasibility matrix, and Porter's analysis to help readers to understand microeconomic factors impacting growth of the excavator market. Chapter 4 Global Excavator Market Analysis and Forecast 2012-2026 This chapter features detailed information about market segmentation and comparison of each segment in terms of market value (US$ million) and volume (units). To provide detailed information about development of the excavator market, the market is divided into five segments in the XploreMR report. Readers can find in-depth analysis of each segment of the excavator market, which can ultimately help market players to modify or alter their business strategies for the coming future. Based on the product types, the excavator market is segmented into compact excavators, crawler excavators, dragline excavators, long reach excavators, and suction excavators. According to the mechanism type, the excavator market is segmented in to electric excavators, hybrid excavators, and hydraulic excavators. Depending on the size class of excavators, the excavator market is divided into four categories mini or compact (<13,227 lbs.), medium (13,227 22,046 lbs.), standard/full-size (22,046 198,416 lbs.), and heavy excavator (>198,416 lbs.). Based on the end-user industry, the excavator market is segmented into construction, mining, and forestry & agriculture. According to the geographical markets for excavators, the global excavator market is segmented into six regions North America, Latin America, Europe, Japan, Asia Pacific Excluding Japan (APEJ), and Middle East & Africa (MEA). Chapter 5 North America Excavator Market Size and Forecast, 2012-2026 This chapter gives a succinct introduction to the excavator market in North America, along with a detailed analysis and forecast on regional trends impacting the market growth. Key countries assessed in the North America excavator market are the U.S., and Canada, and value & volume forecast on the excavator market in these countries have also been delivered in this chapter. This chapter also provides detailed analysis of the North American market for excavators based on the demand for excavators according to product types, mechanism types, size class of excavators, and end-user industries in the excavator market in the region. Chapter 6 Latin America Excavator Market Size and Forecast, 2012-2026 In this chapter, readers can find detailed information on how excavator market will grow in Latin American region during 2018-2026. The market value assessment by country, such as Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and rest of Latin American region, according to the demand for excavator according to product types, mechanism types, size class of excavators, and end-user industries in the excavator market in LATAM countries, is also provided in this chapter. Chapter 7 Europe Excavator Market Size and Forecast, 2012-2026 The information featured in this chapter can help readers to comprehend growth prospects of the market for excavator across the European region. This chapter also explains growth prospects of the excavator market in the European Union based on demand for excavator according to product types, mechanism types, size class of excavators, and end-user industries in the European excavator market. This chapter provides detailed information on micro and macroeconomic factors that are instrumental in boosting or hampering adoption of excavator in European countries, such as Germany, France, Spain, U.K., and Nordics (Norway, Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden). Chapter 8 Japan Excavator Market Size and Forecast, 2012-2026 Japan's excavator market has been comprehensively assessed in this chapter, and detailed analysis on key trends impacting growth of the market in the country has been offered. Y-o-Y growth comparison, Volume & revenue comparison, and the market share comparison of all the key segments, including product types, mechanism types, size class of excavators, and end-user industries, assessed in the Japan excavator market have been delivered in this chapter. Chapter 9 APEJ Excavator Market Size and Forecast, 2012-2026 An introduction to Asia-Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ) excavator market has been offered in this chapter of the report. This chapter offers an accurate forecast on the excavator market in the region in terms of volume and value. Key countries studied under the APEJ excavator market are ASEAN, Australia & New Zealand, China, India, and Rest of the APEJ region. The excavator market in APEJ has also been assessed on the basis of product types, mechanism types, size class of excavators, and end-user industries. Chapter 10 MEA Excavator Market Size and Forecast, 2012-2026 In this chapter, readers can find detailed information about development of the market for excavator in Middle East & African region (MEA) by analyzing the adoption of excavator in GCC countries, South Africa, Turkey, and rest of the MEA region. This chapter also explains growth prospects of the excavator market in MEA based on demand for excavator product types, mechanism types, their size class, and end-user industries in the MEA excavator market. Chapter 11 Global Excavator Market Competitive Landscape and Company Profiles This weighted chapter of the report offers a detailed assessment on the excavator market's structure, along with a dashboard view of all the key companies profiled in the report. In addition, a footprint matrix on the market players profiled in the report has been offered, and the presence of these excavator manufacturers has been depicted with the aid of an intensity map. A company share analysis on the excavator market players has also been offered in this chapter. The XploreMR report provides in-depth information about recent developments in the excavator market. The report features a comprehensive list of leading stakeholders as well as new entrants in the excavators market, which includes Caterpillar Inc., Deere & Co., Hitachi, Ltd., KUBOTA Corporation, CNH Industrial N.V., Volvo Construction Equipment and Services, Inc., Doosan Bobcat Inc., Yanmar Co., Ltd., JCB, Inc., Nagano Industry Co., Ltd., KOBELCO Construction Machinery Co., Ltd., Kato Works Co., Ltd., BEML Limited, Guangxi LiuGong Machinery Co., Ltd., Sany Group Co. Ltd., Terex Corporation, XCMG Construction Machinery Co., Ltd., Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science and Technology Co., Ltd., CAPPELLOTTO S.P.A., Rivard Companies Inc., and The Charles Machine Works, Inc. Chapter 12 Global Excavators Market - Key Takeaways Key takeaways of the detailed information about the excavator market featured throughout the report are provided in this chapter. Chapter 13 XploreMR Research Methodology The chapter provides information on the research methodology followed during the course of the excavator market study. The section also provides primary and secondary research approaches used during the excavator market research and related resources used. Chapter 14 Disclaimer This chapter includes all the necessary disclaimers. This chapter provides information about all the assumptions, acronyms used in the excavator market report to help readers understand the information with more clarity. Contact information can be found at the end of the chapter. Get Full Report Access @ https://www.xploremr.com/cart/3434/SL Maharashtra, India -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- Electronic Total Station Market The electronic total station (TPS) is an electronic/optical instrument used in modern surveying and building construction. The total station is an electronic theodolite (transit) integrated with an electronic distance meter (EDM) to read slope distances from the instrument to a particular point. It is used to measuring distances, heights and angles to provide accurate position data. Download Research Study With Latest Advancement Trends and Application https://www.reportsmonitor.com/request_sample/379090 Scope of the Report: SOUTH, FOIF, TJOP and DAD captured the top four Chinese local revenue share spots in the Electronic Total Station market in 2015. South dominated with 53.99 percent revenue share, followed by FOIF with 13.75 percent revenue share and TJOP with 7.06 percent revenue share. Despite the presence of competition problems, due to the clear global recovery trend, investors are still optimistic about this area, in future still more new investment will enter into the field. Technology and cost are two major problems. Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report covers SOUTH FOIF TJOP DAD BOIF Market Segment by Type, covers Building & Construction TPS Construction & Surveying TPS Surveying & Engineering TPS Engineering & Monitoring TPS Laser Stations Market Segment by Applications, can be divided into Large-scale construction on the ground Underground tunnel construction Precision engineering surveying Deformation monitoring field Regions/Countries: North America (USA, Canada, Mexico) Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Australia, Indonesia, Thailand) Europe (Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, etc.) South America (Brazil, Argentina, etc.) Middle East (Saudi Arabia, Iran etc.) Africa (Egypt, South Africa, etc.) Get Discount on this report @ https://www.reportsmonitor.com/check_discount/379090 Points Covered in The Report: The points that are talked over within the report are the major Electronic Total Station market players that influence the market such as raw material suppliers, manufacturers, equipment suppliers, end users, traders, distributors etc. The all-inclusive profile of the companies is specified. The production, price, capacity, revenue, cost, gross, gross margin, sales volume, sales revenue, consumption, growth rate, import, export, future strategies, supply, and the technological developments that they are creating are also incorporated within the report. Besides the historical data from 2012 to 2017 and forecast data from 2019 to 2024. The growth factors of the Electronic Total Station market are deeply discussed while the different end users of the market are underlined. Data and information by manufacturer, by region, by type, by application and etc., and custom research can be added in line with the specific requirements. The report also considers the SWOT analysis of the market. Finally, the report concludes with the opinions of the industry experts. Full Report Link @ https://www.reportsmonitor.com/report/379090/Electronic-Total-Station-Market The global Electronic Total Station Market provides an overall research conclusion and market feasibility of investing in a novel project is assessed. Global Electronic Total Station Market is a beneficial and trustworthy source of guidance and mode for individuals and companies concerned with the sales of the market. About Reports Monitor Reports Monitor is a market intelligence and consulting firm with extensive experience and knowledge of the Market Research industry. Our aim is to change the dynamics of the Market Research industry by providing quality intelligence backed by data. Your requirement for market forecasting is fulfilled by our exclusive quantitative and analytics driven intelligence. Decision makers can now rely on our distinct data gathering methods to get factual market forecasting and detailed analysis. Mention your Queries here to Get a Call from Our Industry Expert @ sales@reportsmonitor.com Los Angeles, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/14/2019 -- Global Aviation Fuel Additives market report is first of its kind research report that covers the overview, summary, market dynamics, competitive analysis, and leading player's various strategies to sustain in the global market. This report covers five top regions of the globe and countries within, which shows the status of regional development, consisting of market value, volume, size, and price data. Apart from this, the report also covers detail information about various clients which is the most significant element for the manufacturers. Request a Sample of this report: https://www.qyresearch.com/sample-form/form/987240/global-aviation-fuel-additives-manufacturers-profiles-market The following manufacturers are covered: Chevron Oronite Company Lubrizol Afton Chemical Fuel Performance Solutions Evonik Industries BASF Chemtura Shell Total Innospec Dorf Ketal Chemicals Infineum International Cummins Cerion GE Water Segment by Regions North America Europe China Japan Checkout link: https://www.qyresearch.com/settlement/pre/c83152ef21569082644384a0ac92dc74,0,1,Global%20Aviation%20Fuel%20Additives%20Manufacturers%20Profiles,%20Market%20Size%20and%20Market%20Share%202019 Regions Covered in the Global Aviation Fuel Additives Market: The Middle East and Africa (GCC Countries and Egypt) North America (the United States, Mexico, and Canada) South America (Brazil etc.) Europe (Turkey, Germany, Russia UK, Italy, France, etc.) Asia-Pacific (Vietnam, China, Malaysia, Japan, Philippines, Korea, Thailand, India, Indonesia, and Australia) Ask our Expert if You Have a Query at: enquiry@qyresearch.com Strategic Points Covered in TOC: Chapter 1:Introduction, market driving force product scope, market risk, market overview, and market opportunities of the global Aviation Fuel Additives market Chapter 2:Evaluating the leading manufacturers of the global Aviation Fuel Additives market which consists of its revenue, sales, and price of the products Chapter 3:Displaying the competitive nature among key manufacturers, with market share, revenue, and sales Chapter 4:Presenting global Aviation Fuel Additives market by regions, market share and with revenue and sales for the projected period Chapter 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9: To evaluate the market by segments, by countries and by manufacturers with revenue share and sales by key countries in these various regions Los Angeles, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/14/2019 -- This report focuses on Biorefinery Products volume and value at global level, regional level and company level. From a global perspective, this report represents overall Biorefinery Products market size by analyzing historical data and future prospect. Regionally, this report focuses on several key regions: North America, Europe, China and Japan. At company level, this report focuses on the production capacity, ex-factory price, revenue and market share for each manufacturer covered in this report. Request a Sample of this report: https://www.qyresearch.com/sample-form/form/987249/global-biorefinery-products-market The following manufacturers are covered: Abengoa Bioenergy Corp Pacific Ethanol Neste Oil OYJ Renewable Energy Group UOP LLC Valero Energy Corp ... Segment by Regions North America Europe China Japan Segment by Type Biochemical Thermochemical Checkout link: https://www.qyresearch.com/settlement/pre/4659fdb53ff897f9a9cbce384258838e,0,1,Global%20Biorefinery%20Products%20Market%20Survey%20and%20Forecast%20Report%202019 Regions Covered in the Global Biorefinery Products Market: The Middle East and Africa (GCC Countries and Egypt) North America (the United States, Mexico, and Canada) South America (Brazil etc.) Europe (Turkey, Germany, Russia UK, Italy, France, etc.) Asia-Pacific (Vietnam, China, Malaysia, Japan, Philippines, Korea, Thailand, India, Indonesia, and Australia) Ask our Expert if You Have a Query at: enquiry@qyresearch.com Strategic Points Covered in TOC: Chapter 1:Introduction, market driving force product scope, market risk, market overview, and market opportunities of the global Biorefinery Products market Chapter 2:Evaluating the leading manufacturers of the global Biorefinery Products market which consists of its revenue, sales, and price of the products Chapter 3:Displaying the competitive nature among key manufacturers, with market share, revenue, and sales Chapter 4:Presenting global Biorefinery Products market by regions, market share and with revenue and sales for the projected period Chapter 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9: To evaluate the market by segments, by countries and by manufacturers with revenue share and sales by key countries in these various regions Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- ResearchMoz include new market research report "Global Hybrid Cars and EVs Market by Manufacturers, Regions, Type and Application, Forecast to 2023" to its huge collection of research reports. Alarming increase in level of air pollution has raised awareness among the consumers for environmental friendly product which are carbon free. Also, increasing awareness about the environmental friendly vehicles is likely to influence the demand of the global hybrid cars market in coming years. Hybrid Cars and EVs is one kind of new vehicle which utilizes the unconventional fuel as the power source integrating the advanced technology of the power control and drive section. The unconventional fuel generally is power. It mainly includes the PHEV, EV and HEV. Sample of this report is available upon request @ https://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=1852253 Scope of the Report: This report focuses on the Hybrid Cars and EVs in global market, especially in North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East and Africa. This report categorizes the market based on manufacturers, regions, type and application. The largest consumption region is also the Japan, China has largest consumption growth rate, the Europe and USA has relative smaller consumption region, because their governments support intensity cannot meet their demand. From the initial, the R & D costs is very high, so the gross margin is minus, in a very long period of time, they are in a loss of state, the price is very high than the similar performance, the average price depends on the product type structure. In the future, first the product type ratio will have grate change, the EVs and PHEV will occupy larger market share, the hybrid cars will not the mainstream vehicles, Secondly, the EVs will have larger market share than the PHEV, and the gap will be higher; Thirdly, China will be the largest market. The worldwide market for Hybrid Cars and EVs is expected to grow at a CAGR of roughly 24.8% over the next five years, will reach 305900 million US$ in 2023, from 81000 million US$ in 2017, according to a new GIR (Global Info Research) study. Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report covers TOYOTA BYD Tesla Nissan BMW Mitsubishi Volkswagen Renault BAIC GM Ford JAC Yutong SAIC Zhong Tong ZOTYE KANDI King-long VOLVO Mercedes-Benz Chery Audi Get more information from Table of Content: https://www.researchmoz.us/global-hybrid-cars-and-evs-market-by-manufacturers-regions-type-and-application-forecast-to-2023-report.html/toc Market Segment by Regions, regional analysis covers North America (United States, Canada and Mexico) Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy) Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia) South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia etc.) Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa) Market Segment by Type, covers HEV PHEV EV Market Segment by Applications, can be divided into Home Use Commercial Use There are 15 Chapters to deeply display the global Hybrid Cars and EVs market. Chapter 1, to describe Hybrid Cars and EVs Introduction, product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force; Chapter 2, to analyze the top manufacturers of Hybrid Cars and EVs, with sales, revenue, and price of Hybrid Cars and EVs, in 2016 and 2017; Chapter 3, to display the competitive situation among the top manufacturers, with sales, revenue and market share in 2016 and 2017; Chapter 4, to show the global market by regions, with sales, revenue and market share of Hybrid Cars and EVs, for each region, from 2013 to 2018; Chapter 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, to analyze the market by countries, by type, by application and by manufacturers, with sales, revenue and market share by key countries in these regions; Chapter 10 and 11, to show the market by type and application, with sales market share and growth rate by type, application, from 2013 to 2018; Chapter 12, Hybrid Cars and EVs market forecast, by regions, type and application, with sales and revenue, from 2018 to 2023; Chapter 13, 14 and 15, to describe Hybrid Cars and EVs sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data source Make An Enquiry @ https://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=E&repid=1852253 About ResearchMoz ResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price. For More Information Kindly Contact: ResearchMoz Mr. Nachiket Ghumare, Tel: +1-518-621-2074 USA-Canada Toll Free: 866-997-4948 Email: sales@researchmoz.us Follow us on LinkedIn @ http://bit.ly/1TBmnVG Blog: https://newmarketsize.blogspot.com Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- ResearchMoz include new market research report "Global Regulatory Technology (RegTech) Market Size, Status and Forecast 2019-2025" to its huge collection of research reports. Regulation is generally used for protection of investors and integrity of markets. Regulatory technology is attracting significant investor interest. This is due to its ability to develop innovative digital solutions and the need for deep regulatory understanding. Regulatory Technology (RegTech) comprises companies that use computing technology via a software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform to help businesses comply with regulations in a cheaper and efficient manner. Request For sample Copy of this research to evaluate more: https://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=2167803 Regulatory technology, also known as a "RegTech" is a new field within the financial services industry that utilizes information technology to enhance regulatory processes. It puts a particular emphasis on regulatory monitoring, reporting and compliance and is thus benefiting the finance industry. The objective of RegTech is to enhance transparency as well as consistency and to standardize regulatory processes, to deliver sound interpretations of ambiguous regulations and thus to provide higher levels of quality at lower cost. Oftentimes RegTech companies utilize the cloud through software-as-a-service. The global RegTech market revenue is estimated to be $1372.12 million in 2018 and is expected to reach $6420.34 million by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 24.66% during the forecast period 20182025. The solutions include compliance management, reporting, identity management, and risk management. The compliance management solution segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The solutions help organizations in key compliance areas and risk aversion for AML, KYC, MiFID II, Basel III, PSD 2, Solvency II, and AIFMD. The traditional compliance tools are not found to be effective to respond to regulatory changes in recent times. With the major focus of governments across regions with GDPR guidelines, RegTech is expected to majorly impact the financial service organizations. With an increased focus on data protection rules, organizations need to strictly adhere to compliances and monitor transparency in money transactions as laid down by the regulatory bodies to avoid huge penalties. Many RegTech vendors have partnered with GRC vendors to enhance their reach to the market and clients. This report studies the global Regulatory technology market status and forecast, categorizes the global Regulatory technology market size (value & volume) by manufacturers, type, application, and region. This report focuses on the top manufacturers in North America, Europe, Japan, China, Taiwan, Korea and other regions (Central & South America, and Middle East & Africa). Get more information from Table of Content: https://www.researchmoz.us/global-regulatory-technology-regtech-market-size-status-and-forecast-2019-2025-report.html/toc Top global Regulatory technology manufacturers covered in this report: Bearingpoint MetricStream NICE Actimize Broadridge Traiana Finastra Targens GmbH Acin Fenergo Accuity Lombard Risk Agreement Express Exiger (DDIQ) EastNets Amlpartners Sysnet Global Solutions MindBridge Ai IdentityMind Global Regbot Arachnys Market breakdown by regions United States EU Japan China India Southeast Asia Central & South America Make An Enquiry @ https://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=E&repid=2167803 Market breakdown by type: Risk Management Identity Management & Control Compliance Regulatory Reporting Transaction Monitoring Others Market breakdown by application: Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) Large Enterprises About ResearchMoz ResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price. For More Information Kindly Contact: ResearchMoz Mr. Nachiket Ghumare, Tel: +1-518-621-2074 USA-Canada Toll Free: 866-997-4948 Email: sales@researchmoz.us Follow us on LinkedIn @ http://bit.ly/1TBmnVG Blog: https://newmarketsize.blogspot.com Selbyville, DE -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- The latest Hollow Fiber Membranes Market size Research Report 2025 contains complete Industry outlook, Market size manufacturers and key statistics analysis. The industry sales and Share, industry's trends are all discussed, explained and analyzed. It provides Market sizeing strategy analysis, distributors/traders list, raw materials analysis, import and export analysis, Key success factors and Supply Chain Analysis. The hollow fiber membranes market has presence of small to large scale companies. Some of the big player are DowDuPont, LG Chem, Evonik, Lenntech etc. Asia Pacific is likely to be the largest market of hollow fiber membranes in the coming years. It is due to number of countries that have food processing plants such as India, Singapore, Thailand and China. Also, such emerging nations are in forefront to conserve and process water for greater industrial, agricultural and sanitation related applications. Request a sample of this premium report titled at https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/1699420/?utm_source=openpr-VHS About 30 years ago, hollow fiber membranes were invented during research on reverse osmosis membranes. Hollow fiber membranes are utilized as cylindrical membranes where selective exchange of materials happen through their walls. They are artificial membranes manufactured from ceramic and various polymer materials, such as cellulose tri acetate, PVDF, polyacrylonitrile, polyether, PTFE, ceramics, sulfones and polyimides are utilized to produce the fiber membranes. The hollow fiber membranes are used for number of ultrafiltration and microfiltration requirements. Polymers are preferred over ceramics owing to their high permeability. In food industry, the fiber membrane perform functions such as clarification, concentration, separation and fractionation. Clarification process is utilized in wine, beer and water production. Concentration and fractionation process are used in production of dairy products. Food industry products such as grain and animal products, juice processing, syrup production also utilize the fiber membranes in their production. Other than food & beverages industry, medicine applications includes biotechnology and pharmaceuticals; desalination of water, pervaporation wastewater reclamation, agriculture and gas separation are areas where hollow fiber membranes are widely used. In medicine applications, hollow fiber membranes are used in equipment for procedures such as plasmapheresis, oxygenation of blood hemofiltration and hemodialysis. Research on its use for detoxification function of the liver is also underway. Hollow fiber membranes will find huge demand in waste water treatment, owing to its fast rise, over next few years Microfiltration, reverse osmosis and ultrafiltration are three types of filtration process on which the hollow fiber membranes are classified. Microfiltration is low-pressure filtration technology that has highest share of hollow membrane market. It is mainly used for food processing applications. Under the microfiltration membranes, from any fluid stream larger constituents are removed via size exclusion. Ultrafiltration membranes find usage where small pore size is preferred in waste water treatment, RO-pretreatment and potable water production. Ultrafiltration is capable of removing colloids, bacteria, viruses and solids from any stream of water. Hollow fiber membrane filtration has proven to be a profitable process that provide ability to filter abundant volume at a time. These fibers can be produced in all types of dimensions. The hollow fiber membranes feature very high packing density. It is due to their small strand diameter. The flexibility of strands enable the membrane to show greater filter configuration that is absent in other technologies. Few problems that are associated with product are fiber breakage and irreversible fouling. However, the fiber breakage occurs only in case of extreme strains. Request a discount on standard prices of this premium report titled at https://www.marketstudyreport.com/check-for-discount/1699420 Hollow fiber membranes market will exceed USD 6 billion by 2025; according to a new research report. Hollow fiber membrane market will be driven by rising demand for water treatment in the coming years. The population is growing at higher rate than the available resources to sustain it. It puts high strain on all resources. Pharmaceuticals and food & beverages, industries especially need large quantity of water. The already depleting water resources has driven demand for water treatment industry. Hollow Fiber membranes market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry, with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue in USD million from 2014 to 2025, for the following segments: Hollow fiber membranes market, by filtration type o Microfiltration o Ultrafiltration o Reverse Osmosis Hollow fiber membranes market, by membrane material o Polymer o Ceramic Hollow fiber membranes market, by end user o Water & waste water treatment o Food & beverages o Biotechnology o Pharmaceuticals & chemicals o Others (paper, wood, oil & gas, pesticides) ? The above information is provided on a regional and country basis for the following: o North America U.S. Canada o Europe Germany UK France Spain Italy Russia o Asia Pacific China India Japan Malaysia South Korea Australia o Latin America Brazil Mexico o Middle East & Africa South Africa UAE Saudi Arabia Report Content Chapter 1. Methodology And Scope 1.1. Methodology 1.2. Market definition 1.3. Market estimation & forecast parameters 1.4. Data sources 1.4.1. Primary 1.4.2. Secondary 1.4.2.1. Paid 1.4.2.2. Unpaid Chapter 2. Executive Summary 2.1. Hollow fiber membrane industry 360 degree synopsis, 2014 - 2025 2.1.1. Business trends 2.1.2. Filtration trends 2.1.3. Membrane material trends 2.1.4. End-user trends 2.1.5. Regional trends Chapter 3. Hollow Fiber Membrane Industry Insights 3.1. Industry segmentation 3.2. Industry size and forecast, 2014 - 2025 3.3. Industry ecosystem analysis 3.3.1. Raw material analysis 3.3.2. Profit margin 3.3.3. Value addition 3.3.4. Distribution channel analysis 3.3.5. Vendor matrix 3.3.5.1. List of key raw material suppliers 3.3.5.2. List of key manufacturers/distributors 3.4. Innovation & sustainability 3.4.1. Patent analysis 3.4.2. Production process 3.4.3. Future trends 3.5. Industry impact forces 3.5.1. Growth drivers 3.5.2. Industry pitfalls & challenges 3.6. Regulatory landscape 3.6.1. U.S. 3.6.2. Europe 3.6.3. China 3.7. Growth potential analysis 3.8. Competitive landscape, 2017 3.8.1. Company market share analysis, 2017 3.8.2. Strategic dashboard 3.9. Porter's analysis 3.9.1. Supplier power 3.9.2. Buyer power 3.9.3. Threat of new entrants 3.9.4. Threat of substitutes 3.9.5. Industry rivalry 3.10. Regional price trends 3.11. Cost structure analysis 3.11.1. R&D cost 3.11.2. Manufacturing & equipment cost 3.11.3. Raw material cost 3.11.4. Distribution cost 3.11.5. Operating cost 3.11.6. Miscellaneous cost 3.12. Price by membrane material 3.13. PESTEL analysis Chapter 4. Hollow Fiber Membrane Market, By Filtration Type 4.1. Global hollow fiber membrane filtration type insights 4.2. Microfiltration 4.2.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2014 - 2025 4.2.2. Market estimates and forecast by region, 2014 - 2025 4.3. Ultrafiltration 4.3.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2014 - 2025 4.3.2. Market estimates and forecast by region, 2014 - 2025 4.4. Reverse Osmosis 4.4.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2014 - 2025 4.4.2. Market estimates and forecast by region, 2014 - 2025 Chapter 5. Hollow Fiber Membrane Market, By Membrane Material 5.1. Global hollow fiber membrane market membrane material insights 5.2. Polymer 5.2.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2014 - 2025 5.2.2. Market estimates and forecast by region, 2014 - 2025 5.3. Ceramic 5.3.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2014 - 2025 5.3.2. Market estimates and forecast by region, 2014 - 2025 Complete report titled at https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/hollow-fiber-membranes-market About Market Study Report 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 Report LLC 4 North Main Street, Selbyville, Delaware 19975 USA Phone: 1-302-273-0910 US Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150 Email: sales@marketstudyreport.com Website: https://www.marketstudyreport.com Blog: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/blog Edison, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- HTF MI recently introduced Europe Bancassurance Market study with in-depth overview, describing about the Product / Industry Scope and elaborates market outlook and status to 2023. The market Study is segmented by key regions which is accelerating the marketization. At present, the market is developing its presence and some of the key players from the complete study are HSBC, BNP Paribas, Credit Agricole, Deutsche Bank, Banco Santander, Societe Generale, Barclays PLC, Groupe BPCE, Lloyds Banking Group, Royal Bank of Scotland, ING Group. etc. Request Sample of Europe Bancassurance Market Report 2018 @: https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/1312026-europe-bancassurance-market-1 This report studies the Europe Bancassurance market size, industry status and forecast, competition landscape and growth opportunity. This research report categorizes the Europe Bancassurance market by companies, region, type and end-use industry. Browse 100+ market data Tables and Figures spread through Pages and in-depth TOC on " Bancassurance Market by Type, by End-Users/Application, Organization Size, Industry, and Region - Forecast to 2023". Early buyers will receive 10% customization on comprehensive study. In order to get a deeper view of Market Size, competitive landscape is provided i.e. Revenue (Million USD) by Players (2013-2018), Revenue Market Share (%) by Players (2013-2018) and further a qualitative analysis is made towards market concentration rate, product/service differences, new entrants and the technological trends in future. Enquire for customization in Report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/1312026-europe-bancassurance-market-1 Competitive Analysis: The key players are highly focusing innovation in production technologies to improve efficiency and shelf life. The best long-term growth opportunities for this sector can be captured by ensuring ongoing process improvements and financial flexibility to invest in the optimal strategies. Company profile section of players such as HSBC, BNP Paribas, Credit Agricole, Deutsche Bank, Banco Santander, Societe Generale, Barclays PLC, Groupe BPCE, Lloyds Banking Group, Royal Bank of Scotland, ING Group includes its basic information like legal name, website, headquarters, its market position, historical background and top 5 closest competitors by Market capitalization / revenue along with contact information. Each player/ manufacturer revenue figures, growth rate and gross profit margin is provided in easy to understand tabular format for past 5 years and a separate section on recent development like mergers, acquisition or any new product/service launch etc. Market Segments: The Europe Bancassurance Market has been divided into type, application, and region. On The Basis Of Region, this report is segmented into following key geographies, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), and market share, growth rate of Bancassurance in these regions, from 2013 to 2023 (forecast), covering - North America (U.S. & Canada) {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Analysis (%) and Opportunity Analysis} - Latin America (Brazil, Mexico & Rest of Latin America) {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Share (%) and Opportunity Analysis} - Europe (The U.K., Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Poland, Sweden & RoE) {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Share (%) and Opportunity Analysis} - Asia-Pacific (China, India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Rest of Asia) {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Share (%) and Opportunity Analysis} - Middle East & Africa (GCC, South Africa, North Africa, RoMEA) {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Share (%) and Opportunity Analysis} - Rest of World {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Analysis (%) and Opportunity Analysis} Buy Single User License of Europe Bancassurance Market Report 2018 @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=1312026 Have a look at some extracts from Table of Content Introduction about Europe Bancassurance Europe Bancassurance Market Size (Sales) Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 2017 Bancassurance Market by Application/End Users Europe Bancassurance Sales (Volume) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2013-2023) table defined for each application/end-users Europe Bancassurance Sales and Growth Rate (2013-2023) Bancassurance Competition by Players/Suppliers, Region, Type and Application Bancassurance (Volume, Value and Sales Price) table defined for each geographic region defined. Europe Bancassurance Players/Suppliers Profiles and Sales Data Additionally Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors list is being provided for each listed manufacturers Market Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018) table for each product type Bancassurance Manufacturing Cost Analysis Bancassurance Key Raw Materials Analysis Bancassurance Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers, Industrial Chain Analysis Market Forecast (2018-2023) ........and more in complete table of Contents Browse for Full Report at: https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/1312026-europe-bancassurance-market-1 Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia. About HTF Market Report HTF Market Report is a wholly owned brand of HTF market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited. HTF Market Report global research and market intelligence consulting organization is uniquely positioned to not only identify growth opportunities but to also empower and inspire you to create visionary growth strategies for futures, enabled by our extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events and experience that assist you for making goals into a reality. Our understanding of the interplay between industry convergence, Mega Trends, technologies and market trends provides our clients with new business models and expansion opportunities. We are focused on identifying the "Accurate Forecast" in every industry we cover so our clients can reap the benefits of being early market entrants and can accomplish their "Goals & Objectives". Sellbyville, DE -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Increasing product demand in food industry to attain desired flavors and fragrances for several applications will positively influence cinnamic aldehyde market over the forecast timeframe. According to industry analysis, global food flavoring industry is projected to surpass USD 15 billion by 2024. Agriculture industry witnessed more than 11 kilo tons demand in 2016. Rising product adoption as fungicide farming due to its antimicrobial characteristics propelling product demand. Strong application outlook in insecticides to provide smell repelling feature towards various undesired insects and mosquitos will enhance product demand. Potential outlook in various end use industries including home care, personal care and agriculture will propel cinnamic aldehyde market growth. Increasing demand for food & beverages coupled with rising disposable income are significant factors supporting product demand. Request for a sample copy of this research report @ https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/1385 Rising concern to decrease blood sugar levels in type II diabetic patients along will support cinnamic aldehyde market growth in healthcare sector. Benefits such as prevention from cancer producing bacteria and permitting anti-cancer activities is a major driving factor supporting product demand. Rising consciousness regarding skin infection due to undiluted form usage may pose threat for industry growth. Increasing research & development cost for organic products along with fluctuating cinnamon prices are major factors affecting cinnamic aldehyde market price trend. Flavor agent will register growth over 6.5% in 2016. Increasing product demand for food & beverages application to manufacture better quality products will stimulate cinnamic aldehyde market growth. Changing consumer preference for flavor enhancing confectioneries such as candies, ice creams and chewing gums will fuel demand. Natural source is anticipated to be valued over USD 1.8 billion by 2024. Natural flavors are derived through abstraction, purification and several biotechnological processes from vegetable, fruit and plants. Rising demand for processed food owing to rising disposable income will significantly drive cinnamic aldehyde market expansion. Make an inquiry for buying this report @ https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/1385 High demand for providing strength to plant root structures will positively support product penetration. As per industry experts, product concentration of 29 ppm kills more than half of aegypti mosquito larvae within a day span. Robust application as effective fumigant for mature mosquitos is further expected to propel cinnamic aldehyde market over the forecast timespan. Asia Pacific is expected to account over 35% industry share in 2024 due to increasing disposable income amongst middle class families in the region. Rising income and demographic trends prompting inclination towards luxury consumer goods in China, Japan and India will foster product demand. Moreover, development of household and personal care industries will significantly contribute to business growth. Global cinnamic aldehyde market share includes Bide Pharmatech, Kao Global Chemicals, Indukern F&F, Aurochemicals, LANXESS, Graham Chemical, Vee Kay International, Kalpsutra Chemicals and Emerald Kalama Chemical. Rising competition among existing players and new entrants is anticipated to enhance product development during the forecast timeframe. 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. Harrisburg, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- GLOBAL INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY MARKET PROFESSIONAL SURVEY REPORT 2018 This Report proposes compelling details of Industrial Machinery market size, market share, contemporary trends, upcoming investment opportunities, and other primary segments. The Industrial Machinery analysis centers over numerous vital elements that influences global Industrial Machinery industry along with the international economy. Historic overview, present market status, and futuristic projections of Industrial Machinery industry are discussed in this study report. The report presents the market competitive landscape and a corresponding detailed analysis of the major vendor/key players in the market. Top Companies in the Global Industrial Machinery Market: - AO Smith Corp, Lincoln Electric Holdings, Manitowoc Company, Illinois Tool Works, Terex Corp, Astec Industries, Toyota, Samsung Electronics, AGCO Corporation, Alamo Group, Ford, Hewlett-Packard, Hitachi, IBM, Lindsay Corporation, Siemens, General Electric and Others. Click the link to get a free Sample Copy of the Report: https://www.marketinsightsreports.com/reports/03131146663/global-industrial-machinery-market-research-report-2019/inquiry?source=releasewire&Mode=18 GLOBAL INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY MARKET SEGMENT BY TYPE:- Agriculture & Food Machinery Construction Machinery & Related Equipment Power & Energy Equipment Aerospace Material Handling Machinery Personal Protective Equipment Metalworking Machinery General Purpose Industrial Machinery Automotive Mining and Industrial Process Machinery GLOBAL INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY MARKET SEGMENT BY APPLICATIONS:- Printing Industries Food Industries Textile Industries Construction Industries Pharmaceuticals Industries Chemical Industries Automotive Industries Agricultural Industries Power Generation Industries Utility Industries MARKET SEGMENT BY REGIONS:- For comprehensive understanding of market dynamics, the Global Industrial Machinery Market is analyzed across key geographies namely: United States, China, Europe, Japan, South-east Asia, India and others. Each of these regions is analyzed on basis of market findings across major countries in these regions for a macro-level understanding of the market. Avail Exclusive Discount on This Report: https://www.marketinsightsreports.com/reports/03131146663/global-industrial-machinery-market-research-report-2019/discount?source=releasewire&mode=18 THERE ARE 15 CHAPTERS TO DEEPLY DISPLAY THE GLOBAL INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY MARKET. Chapter 1: to describe Industrial Machinery Introduction, product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force; Chapter 2: to analyze the top manufacturers of Industrial Machinery, with sales, revenue, and price of Industrial Machinery, in 2017 and 2018; Chapter 3: to display the competitive situation among the top manufacturers, with sales, revenue and market share in 2017 and 2018; Chapter 4: to show the global market by regions, with sales, revenue and market share of Industrial Machinery, for each region, from 2014 to 2018; Chapter 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9: to analyze the key regions, with sales, revenue and market share by key countries in these regions; Chapter 10 and 11: to show the market by type and application, with sales market share and growth rate by type, application, from 2014 to 2018; Chapter 12: Industrial Machinery market forecast, by regions, type and application, with sales and revenue, from 2019 to 2025; Chapter 13, 14 and 15: to describe Industrial Machinery sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, Appendix and Data source. The report has 150 tables and figures browse the report description and TOC: https://www.marketinsightsreports.com/reports/03131146663/global-industrial-machinery-market-research-report-2019?source=releasewire&Mode=18 INFLUENCE OF THE INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY MARKET REPORT: -Comprehensive assessment of all opportunities and risk in the Industrial Machinery market. -Industrial Machinery market recent innovations and major events. -Detailed study of business strategies for growth of the Industrial Machinery market-leading players. -Conclusive study about the growth plot of Industrial Machinery market for forthcoming years. -In-depth understanding of Industrial Machinery market-particular drivers, constraints and major micro markets. -Favourable impression inside vital technological and market latest trends striking the Industrial Machinery market. About MarketInsightsReports MarketInsightsReports provides syndicated market research on industry verticals including Healthcare, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Technology and Media, Chemicals, Materials, Energy, Heavy Industry, etc. MarketInsightsReports provides global and regional market intelligence coverage, a 360-degree market view which includes statistical forecasts, competitive landscape, detailed segmentation, key trends, and strategic recommendations. Contact US: Irfan Tamboli (Head of Sales) Market Insights Reports Phone: + 1704 266 3234 Mob: +91-750-707-8687 sales@marketinsightsreports.com irfan@marketinsightsreports.com New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Ionic liquids are basically salt like minerals that are liquid having temperature below 100 C. As their melting points is generally lower than 100 C, they are also termed as room-temperature ionic liquids. Ionic liquids were earlier introduced as alternative green reaction media owing to their unique physical and chemical properties such as thermal stability, electrical conductivity, low vapour pressure, resistant to oxidation etc. However, nowadays they are showing significant role in controlling the reactions as catalysts. Depending upon the functional group attached, the ionic liquid may behave as an organocatalyst, acidic or basic. Ionic liquids are utilized in various applications and are powerful solvents and electrically conducting fluids. Ionic liquids are non-flammable and are thermally stable at temperatures higher than the conventional molecular solvents. Ionic liquids have array of potential applications including lubricants for offshore wind turbines, thermal fluids for storage and heat transport, hydraulic fluids etc. Request For Report Sample@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/20230 Global Ionic Liquids Market: Segmentation The global Ionic Liquids market can be segmented on the basis of product type and application Based on the product type, the global ionic liquids market can be segmented into Ammonium Imidazolium Phosphonium Pyridinium Pyrrolidinium Others (sulfonium, etc.) Based on the application, the global ionic liquids market can be segmented into Catalysts Solvents Process and Operating Fluids Plastics Batteries & Electrochemistry Bio-Refineries Global Ionic Liquids Market: Dynamics Stringent environmental regulations by the governmental agencies such as Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and European Union to control toxicity by minimizing the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) content in the environment is expected to positively impact the ionic liquids market in the green solvents. Further, utilization of ionic liquids for the biomass conversion into biofuel and other chemical products particularly fractionation of wood into major components such as hemicellulose, lignin and cellulose etc. is now one of the major focus of ionic liquids research across the globe. Thus, in turn supporting the demand for the ionic liquids and is expected to drive the global ionic liquids market over the forecast period Manufacturing of high quality and low cost ionic liquids is found to be one of the major challenged in the global ionic liquids market over the forecast period One of the key trends identified in the global ionic liquids market include, production of ionic liquids from renewable resources. Various U.S based research institutes are focusing on the production of bioethanol. Ionic liquids can be synthesized from bioethanol, which consists of dihydrogen phosphate anions and tertiary amine cations. Further, utilization of ionic liquids as a replacement for solvents owing to their ability to dissolve various chemicals. These liquids have low vapour pressures and low volatility. Global Ionic Liquids Market: Regional Outlook On the basis of region, the global ionic liquids market is expected to be dominated by Asia-Pacific region, owing to the rising demand from developing countries such as China, India etc. for the solvents and catalysts application. Further, large number of chemical manufacturers are present in the China and India where ionic liquids can be utilized as solvents and catalysts in various applications. North America and Europe are expected to show moderate growth in the market over the next decade, as there are very small number of chemical manufacturers are present in these region. Latin America and MEA are expected to hold small share in the market over the near future. Request For Report Table of Content (TOC)@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/toc/20230 Global Ionic Liquids Market: Market Participants Examples of some of the key market participants identified across the value chain of the global Ionic Liquids market include BASF SE, Merck KGaA, Evonik Industries, Cytec Solvay Group, Strem Chemicals, Inc., SOLVIONIC, Iolitec Ionic Liquids Technologies GmbH, Proionic, Jinxi Jinkai Chemical Co., Ltd., Reinste Nano Ventures Pvt. Ltd., and others. Key manufacturers of ionic liquids are found to be involved in the research & development activities in order to introduce the new and advanced products for the wide range of applications. There are various institutes based in China such as China Ionic Liquids Laboratories, PETRONAS Ionic Liquids Centre are involved in the research on ionic liquids in order to make them suitable for various applications San Jose, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- The metal coatings market is projected to witness robust growth in the coming years, the demand is likely to surpass 6,000'000 tons by the end of 2018, according to the latest report by XploreMR. The growth of the metal coatings market is largely influenced by the immense growth in the construction and automotive industry coupled with rising urbanization. The substantial growth of new construction projects in the APEJ region is likely to influence the sales of metal coatings in the forthcoming years. China and India are the countries driving most of the demand in the metal coatings market. The demand for metal coatings with fewer layers and lower cure temperatures is also increasing by the industrial coatings customers. With new regulations, demand for the eco-friendly metal coatings with low or zero VOC is also visible in APEJ region. China is also planning to charge a tax on VOC emission for solvent-based paints and coatings. The growth in the metal coatings market is likely to remain robust. The global demand for metal coatings is expected to reach 6.5% CAGR during the forecast period, 2018-2027. Get Sample Copy of this report @ https://www.xploremr.com/connectus/sample/3187 Rise in Construction and Automotive Sector Driving Metal Coatings Market Growth Automotive and building and construction industries are emerging as key drivers for the growth of metal coatings market. Heavy investment in the construction industry in the Asia Pacific region is offering growth opportunity or metal coatings manufacturers. Countries such as China, India, Qatar, and Indonesia are demanding quality metal coating products for mega construction projects. The consumption of coated steel is also growing in the construction industry in India and China. Coated steel is largely used in structures, wall cladding, and roofing. This is driving the demand for metal coatings products to develop coated steel for building infrastructure. Automotive manufacturers across the globe are looking for light-weight materials to develop light-weight vehicles. This is resulting in advancement in metal coatings technology. Report Structure An executive summary at the beginning of the report provides a snapshot of the global Metal Coatings market forecast, including the region-wise outlook coupled with relevant market numbers. The executive summary also offers a forecast on other Metal Coatings market segments such as products, sales channel, and buyer-type, in terms of market share, revenues, and CAGRs. A chapter on overview, which trails the executive summary, provides a concise market introduction which includes a market taxonomy table and a formal definition of "Metal Coatings". The overview chapter elucidates key nodes of the global Metal Coatings market such as supply chain, cost structure, service provider lists, raw material sourcing strategies, and pricing analysis. This chapter also issues a succinct study on the overall market approach of key players partaking in the global Metal Coatings market, displaying their presence on an intensity map. Market Taxonomy The report also delivers assessment on the global market for Metal Coatings through a segmentation analysis in its following chapters. The market has been branched on the basis of types of Metal Coatings, their buyers, sales channels, and region. These market segments have been scrutinized and analyzed based on a comparative study that involves revenues, market share, and Y-o-Y growth through the forecast period. Geographically, the global market for Metal Coatings has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific excluding Japan, Latin America, Japan, and Middle East & Africa. First Time Buyer, Get Discount on this report @ https://www.xploremr.com/connectus/check-discount/3187 Region- wise Analysis Metal Coatings Market covers: North America Europe China Japan India Southeast Asia Other regions (Central & South America, Middle East & Africa) The Research Report Covers In- Depth Analysis As Follows: Chapter 1 Global Economic Outlook Chapter 2 Global Metal Coatings Market - Executive Summary Chapter 3 Global Metal Coatings Market Overview Chapter 4 Global Metal Coatings Market Analysis and Forecast 2018-2027 Chapter 5 North America Metal Coatings Market Size and Forecast, 2018-2027 Chapter 6 Latin America Metal Coatings Market Size and Forecast, 2018-2027 Chapter 7 Europe Metal Coatings Market Size and Forecast, 2018-2027 Chapter 8 Japan Metal Coatings Market Size and Forecast, 2018-2027 Chapter 9 APEJ Metal Coatings Market Size and Forecast, 2018-2027 Chapter 10 MEA Metal Coatings Market Size and Forecast, 2018-2027 Chapter 11 Global Metal Coatings Market Company Share, Competition Landscape and Company Profiles Chapter 12 Research Methodology Request to view TOC @ https://www.xploremr.com/report/3187/metal-coatings-market/toc Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Muckle-Wells Syndrome Market: Overview Muckle-Wells syndrome (MWS) refers to a rare inherited autoinflammatory disease, of the cryopyrin associated periodic syndromes (CAPS), caused by mutations in the NLRP3/ CIAS1 gene. The gene is associated with the coding of the protein cryopyrin. Mutations in the gene are said to result in the increased activity of a protein known as interleukin (IL) 1, which leads to inflammatory symptoms such as joint pain and fever. The syndrome is characterized by recurrent episodes of rashes, acute attacks of fever, conjunctivitis, and painful joint. In most cases, the syndrome also leads to progressive sensorineural hearing loss. Renal failure are also often associated in untreated conditions owing to the abnormal accumulation of the protein amyloid in the kidneys. Report Overview @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/muckle-wells-syndrome-market.html This report examines the market concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of MWS and presents a thorough overview of the present state of diagnostic tools and techniques and various drug compounds presently marketed for MWS. The report also includes detailed data regarding the state of ongoing research and development in the field, drugs in clinical trials and pipeline, and scope of growth for companies wanting to foray into the market. Muckle-Wells Syndrome Market: Scope of the Report The report presents an exhaustive account of the factors that are expected to have a sizeable impact on the market's future growth prospects. As such, key growth drivers, challenges, trends of past and the present, regulatory factors, and recent developments across the market's regulatory landscape are analyzed in the report. The report also presents a detailed overview of the competitive landscape of the global MWS market. In this section, details regarding companies in the market through already marketed drugs or drugs in pipelines are examined. Details such as market shares, SWOT analysis, product portfolios, finances (where available) and geographical presence are included. Request Brochure @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=2249 Muckle-Wells Syndrome Market: Drivers and Restraints The market is expected to grow over the forecast period owing to advances in genetic engineering and increased focus of international pharmaceutical companies on research and development in the field of rare diseases such as MWS. Since MWS is a newly discovered condition, data regarding the actual prevalence and incidence are somewhat difficult to determine. Also, there is a vast lack of awareness regarding the disease and R&D costs are high. These factors are expected to arrest the growth of the global MWS market to a large extent in the next few years. Nevertheless, government intervention, funds from private and public bodies, and attempts to raise awareness among the masses about the diseases could help the market gain traction. Muckle-Wells Syndrome Market: Available Diagnostic and Therapeutics Options As such, not many drug candidates are available to treat the condition completely. The few treatment options available in the market include Arcalyst (Rilonacept), an interleukin-1 blocker, by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Ilaris (Canakinumab), a monoclonal antibody to interleukin-1 beta, by Novartis Pharmaceuticals, and Kineret (Anakinra), an IL-1 receptor antagonist, by Biovitrum pharmaceuticals. Many drug candidates are also in pipelines. Request for TOC @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=2249 For correcting the hearing loss that most MWS patients develop, hearing aids are prescribed. For alleviating joint pain, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed. The use of corticosteroids in high doses has also demonstrated positive effect in certain cases, but this may lead to several long- and short-term side effects. For diagnosis of MWS, a thorough evaluation of the patient's syndromes is done. For confirmation of the diagnosis, identification of NLRP3/ CIAS1 gene mutation is done. Identification of mutation is, however, not a sure shot way of confirming the diagnosis of MWS as not all patient possess this mutation. Muckle-Wells Syndrome Market: Competitive Landscape The vendor landscape of the global MWS market features few players and a low level of competition, typical of most new markets. More companies are expected to enter the market via experimental drugs in the next few years. Better diagnostic methods are expected to be devised owing to increased vendor base in the market and advances in genetic engineering. Some of the key vendors presently operating in the market are Novartis AG, Charite University, Berlin, Germany, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. About Transparency Market Research Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMR's experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge. Each TMR syndicated research report covers a different sector such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With wider scope and stratified research methodology, TMR's syndicated reports strive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement. Contact 90 State Street, Suite 700 Albany, NY 12207 Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com Los Angeles, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Nondestructive testing (NDT) is the application of measurement techniques to identify defect and discontinuity in material, component, or structure. Nondestructive testing equipment market is expected to witness considerable growth, owing to continuous evolution in power & energy, oil & gas, and aerospace & defense coupled with growth in need for quality-assured machines. Companies need to have quality accredit in accordance with standards such as ISO 9001 quality management system and other quality control assurance certifications. Access PDF version of the Non-destructive equipment Market report at: https://www.qyresearch.com/sample-form/form/987297/global-non-destructive-equipment-industry-market The global Non-destructive equipment market is valued at xx million US$ in 2018 is expected to reach xx million US$ by the end of 2025, growing at a CAGR of xx% during 2019-2025. This report focuses on Non-destructive equipment volume and value at global level, regional level and company level. From a global perspective, this report represents overall Non-destructive equipment market size by analyzing historical data and future prospect. Regionally, this report focuses on several key regions: North America, Europe, China and Japan. At company level, this report focuses on the production capacity, ex-factory price, revenue and market share for each manufacturer covered in this report. The following manufacturers are covered: Fortive (US) Rohde & Schwarz (Germany) Anritsu (Japan) Keysight (US) Yokogawa Electric (Japan) National Instruments (US) EXFO (Canada) Advantest (Japan) Viavi (US) Cobham (UK) Teledyne (US) Texas Instruments (US) Click to view Tables, Charts, Figures, TOC, and Companies Mentioned in the global Non-destructive equipment market Report: https://www.qyresearch.com/index/detail/987297/global-non-destructive-equipment-industry-market Non-destructive equipment Market Segment by Regions North America Europe China Japan Non-destructive equipment Market Segment by Type Penetration Detector Eddy Current Detector Thermometer Others Non-destructive equipment Market Segment by Application Automotive Aerospace & Defense Semiconductor & Electronics Industrial Others Access Customized Version of this Report at: https://www.qyresearch.com/customize-request/form/987297/global-non-destructive-equipment-industry-market Benefits of Purchasing QY Research Report Analyst Support: Get you query resolved from our expert analysts before and after purchasing the report Customer's Satisfaction: Our expert team will assist with all your research needs and customize the report Inimitable Expertise: Analysts will provide deep insights about the reports Assured Quality: We focus on the quality and accuracy of the report About QYResearch QYResearch always pursuits high product quality with the belief that quality is the soul of business. Through years of effort and supports from the huge number of customer support, the QYResearch consulting group has accumulated creative design methods on many high-quality markets investigation and research team with rich experience. Today, QYResearch has become the brand of quality assurance in the consulting industry Albany City, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- A recent market study published by the company "Point-of-care Cholesterol Monitoring Device Market Outlook and Growth Stance Forecasted Through 2028" consists a comprehensive assessment of the most important market dynamics. On conducting a comprehensive research on the historic as well as current growth parameters of the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market, the growth prospects of the market are obtained with maximum precision. The report features unique and salient factors that are likely to have a high impact on the development of the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market during the forecast period. It can help the players operating in the market to modify their manufacturing and marketing strategies to envisage maximum growth in the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market in the upcoming years. The report provides detailed information about the current and future growth prospects of the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market in the most comprehensive manner for the better understanding of readers. Chapter 1 Executive Summary The report commences with the executive summary of the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market, which includes the summary of key findings and key statistics of the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market. It also includes the market value (US$ million) estimates of the leading segments of the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market. To Get Sample Copy of Report, Click here @ https://www.mrrse.com/sample/18681 Chapter 2 Market Overview Readers can find detailed taxonomy and definition of the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market in this chapter, which will help them understand the basic information about the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market dynamics, opportunity analysis, list of key distributors & suppliers, list of key market participants, epidemiology study, and pipeline assessment. Chapter 3 North America Point-of-care Cholesterol Monitoring Device Market Analysis (20132017) & Opportunity Assessment (20182028) This chapter includes a detailed analysis of the growth of the North America point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market along with a country-wise assessment that includes the U.S. and Canada. Readers can also find market growth and market attractiveness analysis based on product type, technology, application, end user and countries in the North America market. Chapter 4 Latin America Point-of-care Cholesterol Monitoring Device Market Analysis (20132017) & Opportunity Assessment (20182028) Readers can find detailed information about the growth of the Latin America point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market. This chapter also includes the growth prospects of the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market in leading LATAM countries such as Brazil, Mexico and the Rest of Latin America. Chapter 5 Western Europe Point-of-care Cholesterol Monitoring Device Market Analysis (20132017) & Opportunity Assessment (20182028) Important growth prospects of the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market based on its product type and distribution channel in several Western European countries, such as Germany, the U.K., France, Italy, Spain and Rest of Western Europe, are included in this chapter. Chapter 6 Eastern Europe Point-of-care Cholesterol Monitoring Device Market Analysis (20132017) & Opportunity Assessment (20182028) Important growth prospects of the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market based on product type and distribution channel in several Eastern European countries, such as Russia, Poland and Rest of Eastern Europe, are included in this chapter. Chapter 7 Asia Pacific excluding China & Japan Point-of-care Cholesterol Monitoring Device Market Analysis (20132017) & Opportunity Assessment (20182028) India, ASEAN, Australia and New Zealand and Rest of APECJ are the leading countries in the APECJ region, which are the prime subjects of assessment to obtain the growth prospects of the APECJ point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market in this chapter. Readers can find detailed information about the growth parameters of the APECJ point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market during the period 20182028. Chapter 8 China Point-of-care Cholesterol Monitoring Device Market Analysis (20132017) & Opportunity Assessment (20182028) This chapter provides information on how the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market will grow in China during the period 20182028. Chapter 9 Japan Point-of-care Cholesterol Monitoring Device Market Analysis (20132017) & Opportunity Assessment (20182028) This chapter provides information on how the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market will grow in Japan during the period 20182028. Browse Complete Report with TOC @ https://www.mrrse.com/point-of-care-cholesterol-monitoring-device-market Chapter 10 Middle East & Africa (MEA) Point-of-care Cholesterol Monitoring Device Market Analysis (20132017) & Opportunity Assessment (20182028) This chapter provides information about how the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market will grow in the major countries in the MEA region, such as GCC Countries, South Africa and the Rest of MEA. Chapter 11 Competition Landscape and Company Profiles In this chapter, readers can find a comprehensive list of all the leading stakeholders in the Point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market along with detailed information about each company, including company overview, revenue shares, strategic overview and recent company developments. Market players featured in this report include Acon Laboratories, Inc., F.Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Samsung Healthcare, Abbott Laboratories, SD Biosensor, Inc., DiaSys Diagnostic Systems GmbH, Jant Pharmacal Corporation, Bioptik Ltd., and General Life Biotechnology Co., Ltd., among others. Chapter 12 Global Point-of-care Cholesterol Monitoring Device Market Analysis 20132017 & Opportunity Assessment 20182028, By Product Type Based on the product type, the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market is segmented into point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device instruments and testing kits. In this chapter, readers can find information about the key trends and developments in the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market and market attractive analysis based on the product type as well as region-wise product offerings. Chapter 13 Global Point-of-care Cholesterol Monitoring Device Market Analysis 20132017 & Opportunity Assessment 20182028, By End User Based on the end user, the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market is segmented into hospital, diagnostic centers & laboratory, ambulatory surgical centers and home care settings. In this chapter, readers can find information about the key trends and developments in the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market and market attractive analysis based on the end user for each region. Chapter 14 Global Point-of-care Cholesterol Monitoring Device Market Analysis 20132017 & Opportunity Assessment 20182028, By Region This chapter explains how the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market will grow across various geographic regions, which include North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia-Pacific Excluding China & Japan (APECJ), China, Japan and the Middle East & Africa (MEA). Chapter 15 Assumptions and Acronyms This chapter includes a list of acronyms and assumptions that provide a base to the information and statistics included in the report. Chapter 16 Research Methodology This chapter helps readers understand the research methodology followed to obtain various conclusions, important qualitative information and quantitative information about the point-of-care cholesterol monitoring device market. Enquire about this Report @ https://www.mrrse.com/enquiry/18681 About Market Research Reports Search Engine (MRRSE) Market Research Reports Search Engine (MRRSE) is an industry-leading database of Market Research Reports. MRRSE is driven by a stellar team of research experts and advisors trained to offer objective advice. Our sophisticated search algorithm returns results based on the report title, geographical region, publisher, or other keywords. MRRSE partners exclusively with leading global publishers to provide clients single-point access to top-of-the-line market research. MRRSE's repository is updated every day to keep its clients ahead of the next new trend in market research, be it competitive intelligence, product or service trends or strategic consulting. Contact Us State Tower 90, State Street Suite 700 Albany, NY - 12207 United States Telephone: +1-518-730-0559 Email: sales@mrrse.com Sellbyville, DE -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- Precision Gearbox Market is projected to be valued at around USD 3 billion by 2024. These machines are designed to withstand high tolerances offering efficiencies of 90% and above and are used for speed reduction to provide high torque multiplication. Precision gearboxes are preferred by designer as they have smaller components, utilizes less space and saves cost. Request For Sample Copy Of This Report @ https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/255 Emerging applications such as robotics is expected to create substantial demand for precision gearboxes as robots require highly precise movements which can be fulfilled by these products. However, the presence of substitute products such as direct drive systems pose a significant challenge and may hamper the overall precision gearbox market share. These products eliminate the use of gears and significantly reduce the complexity, weight and increase the efficiency without incurring any energy losses. Robotics applications are expected to grow at 6.5% CAGR from 2016 to 2024. This growth is attributed to the increasing demand in designing prosthetic limbs and joints for balancing of robots and for achieving precise movements in industrial applications. Furthermore, the automated material handling segment is expected to witness a steady growth owing to increasing installations of these at manufacturing plants in order to fastened the overall production process. Growing demand for automation will further lead to new opportunities. North America, mainly led by the U.S. precision gearbox market, captured over 20% of the revenue in the year 2015, due to rise in manufacturing plants in the region. The APAC Market will witness growth on account of increasing automation and adoption of operational efficient machinery. Make an inquiry before buying this report @ https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/255 On the basis of product, the industry can be segregated into parallel, planetary and right-angle products. Planetary precision gearbox market accounted for over 70% of the revenue as of 2015. Right angle gearboxes are gaining popularity owing to benefits such as greater flexibility, less space occupancy. These products are preferred for their use in angular arrangement between the output shaft and the drive. Growing rate of innovations in miniature gears has enabled manufacturers to design highly precise, tiny and light weight housing gears. These miniature gears are used in high transmission, low backlash requirements. Rising demand for conveyor belts, positing, variable acceleration in packaging and bottling, fluid injection will drive the precision gearbox market growth in the forecast timeframe. Browse Full Report Summary @ https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/precision-gearbox-market The major players competing in the high precision gearbox market include Siemens, SEW Eurodrive, Brevini, etc. These companies possess a strong brand identity and pose a strong challenge for new entrants. Heavy research and developments costs acts as a major barrier for new entrants. The overall industry is highly fragmented owing to large number of regional and local players. Product development, merger and acquisitions, strategic partnerships comprise some of the key competitive strategies adopted by the industry players. 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. San Francisco, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Global Radiology Information Systems Market: Overview Radiology information system (RIS) is an advanced software tool developed to manage radiological data generated in hospitals around the world. The software majorly caters to digital data collection, thereby assisting the overall healthcare information systems. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the global radiological information systems market covering the growth drivers, major restraints, segmentation based on various parameters, and the impact of the latest technological advancements. It also covers outcomes of various analyses, intended to help the readers gain a better perspective of the global radiology information systems market. Order Brochure for more detailed information @ https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=59 Global Radiology Information Systems Market: Trends and Opportunities The increasing costs and demand for more effective healthcare services have compelled hospitals to integrate advanced technologies for managing work force better and simultaneously delivering quicker and better patient care. Spurred by these factors, the uptake of radio information systems has significantly increased across hospitals and radiology departments. Besides this, enterprises operating in the global radiology information systems market are also gaining from the increasing incidence of chronic ailments such as diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular diseases and others. In addition, the rising aging population will prove a boon as geriatric population is more prone to developing terminal illnesses. As per the findings of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, nearly 400 million medical imaging procedure are conducted annually in the U.S. A comprehensive and integrated system is thus required to manage such staggering volume of patient-related data generated yearly. Moreover, with the decentralization of hospital processes, incomplete data storage has emerged as a major concern. In order to address these concerns, the deployment of radiology information systems is expected to rise significantly. Request TOC for Facts & Tables @ https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=59 Global Radiology Information Systems Market: Regional Outlook Regionally, North America holds position as the most lucrative for radiology information systems market. Europe comes second to it in terms of exhibiting opportunities for radiology information systems sales. Besides this, Asia Pacific has been exhibiting attractive prospects as a result of the rising demand from countries such as China, Korea, Japan, and Malaysia. Due to the excessively high cost of medical services in the U.S., hospitals are losing businesses to their counterparts in Asia Pacific, with Malaysia, Singapore, China, India, and other countries emerging as popular destinations for medical tourism. Moreover, the prevalence of cancer across emerging nations is considerably high. According to the WHO, over 60% of new cancer cases are reported from Asia, South America, and Africa. Furthermore, these regions also show a high incidence of cardiovascular disease mortalities among the low and middle-income countries, which is a chief driver of the demand for radiology information systems. Global Radiology Information Systems Market: Vendor Landscape To study the prevailing vendor landscape, the report also profiles a few of the most prominent enterprises operating in the global radiology information system market. Using SWOT analysis, the report determines the strengths and weaknesses of the companies profiled. The analysis also helps the companies identify the opportunities and threats that they might witness over the course of the forecast period. Some of the leading enterprises operating in the global radiology information systems market are CoActiv Medical, AGFA Healthcare, FUJIFILM, Carestream Health, MERGE Healthcare, Cyglera Health Systems, Comrad, Novarad Corporation, Siemens Healthcare, and Infinitt Healthcare Co., Ltd. Read Comprehensive Overview of Report @ https://www.tmrresearch.com/radiology-information-systems-market About TMR Research TMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in today's supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients' conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends. Pune, India -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- Global Agriculture Sensors Market Overview Technological advancements in the Agriculture Sensors market has witnessed continuous growth in the past few years and is projected to grow even further during the forecast period (2019-2025). In addition to the complete assessment of the market, the report presents Future trend, Current Growth Factors, attentive opinions, facts, historical data, and statistically supported and industry validated market data. This report checks the Complete Agriculture Sensors market status and the prospect of global and major regions, from angles of players, product regions and end Application/industries; this report analyzes the top players in global and major regions and divides the Complete Agriculture Sensors market by product and Application/end industries. Here, you can avail Sample PDF pages for this report: http://bit.ly/2XUlhhF The main aim of this Complete Agriculture Sensors Industry report is to help the user understand the market about its definition, segmentation, market potential, influential trends, and the challenges that the market is facing. Profound researches and analysis were done during the preparation of the report. This report will aid the users in understanding the market in depth. The data and the information regarding the Complete Agriculture Sensors market are taken from reliable sources such as journals, websites, annual reports of the companies, and others and were reviewed and validated by the industry experts. The data and facts are depicted in the report using graphs, diagrams, pie charts, and other pictorial representations. This bolsters the visual representation and helps in understanding the facts in a better way. Top Key Players in the Agriculture Sensors Market: Texas Instruments, Auroras s.r.l., Bosch, Avidor High Tech, Libelium, Sol Chip Ltd, Pycno Agriculture, CropX Inc, Trimble Inc, Sentera LLC., The Yield Pty Ltd. With this Agriculture Sensors market report, all the participants and the vendors will be in aware of the growth factors, shortcomings, threats, and the lucrative opportunities that the market will offer in the near future. The report also features the revenue; industry size, share, production volume, and consumption in order to gain insights about the politics and tussle of gaining control of a huge chunk of the market share. The Agriculture Sensors Industry is intensely competitive and fragmented because of the presence of several established players participating in various marketing strategies to expand their market share. The vendors available in the market compete centered on price, quality, brand, product differentiation, and product portfolio. The vendors are increasingly emphasizing product customization through customer interaction. Get Exclusive Discount @ http://bit.ly/2O02InR Global Agriculture Sensors Market is Segmented into Products, Application and End User Major Types of Agriculture Sensors covered are: Physical Sensors, Mechanical Sensors, Chemical Sensors. Major end-user applications for Agriculture Sensors market: Yield Monitoring and Mapping, Soil Monitoring, Disease Control and Detection, Irrigation and Water Management. Agriculture Sensors Market segment by Regions/Countries: United States, Europe, China, Japan, Southeast Asia, India, Central & South America. Points Covered in The Report: A. The key points mentioned in the Global Agriculture Sensors Market report include the leading competitors functioning in the global market. B. The report also includes the company profiles of the companies operating in the global market. C. The production, manufacture, sales, future strategies, and the technological advancements of the leading players are also included in the report. D. The growth factors of the Global Agriculture Sensors Market is discussed thoroughly, wherein the different end-users of the market are explained meticulously. E. The report also discusses the key application areas of the global market, hence providing a precise description of the market to the readers/users. F. The report comprises the SWOT analysis of the market. In the last section, the report consists of the opinions of the industry experts and professionals. The experts within the industry are in an effort to analyze the export/import policies that are positively influencing the growth of the Global Agriculture Sensors Market. G. The report on the Global Agriculture Sensors Market is a valuable source of information for every enthusiast, policymaker, stakeholder, investor, service provider, supplier, manufacturer, and player interested in buying this research document. Reasons for Buying Global Agriculture Sensors Market Report: A. The report provides a detailed analysis of the changing competitive landscape that keeps the reader/client ahead of the competitors. B. It also provides an in-depth view of the different factors driving or restraining the growth of the global market. C. The Global Agriculture Sensors Market report provides an eight-year forecast evaluated on the basis of how the market is estimated to grow. D. It assists in making informed business decisions by having thorough insights into the global market and by making a comprehensive analysis of the key market segments and sub-segments. Access full Report Description, TOC, Table of Figure, Chart, etc. @ http://bit.ly/2Ux3Ce7 In the end, the global Complete Agriculture Sensors Market provides an overall research conclusion and market feasibility of investing in a new project is evaluated. Global Complete Agriculture Sensors Market is a beneficial and trustworthy source of guidance and mode for individuals and companies concerned with the sales of the market. Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like Asia, United States, Europe. San Jose, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- Rotary Pumps Market: Detailed Analysis of Profitable Business Opportunities for Market Players The "Rotary Pumps market Forecast, Trend Analysis, and Competition Tracking Global Review 2018-2028" is a research report published by XploreMR that concentrates on the important growth avenues for stakeholders in the rotary pumps market. The market report provides a comprehensive assessment of the factors and key market dynamics that impact the development of rotary pumps market. The report features the information concluded by analyzing facts and numbers obtained through an extensive market research, which are justified by a set of industry-validated information on Rotary pumps market. This is the latest report on rotary pumps market published by XploreMR that reveals qualitative as well as quantitative information to explain the most accurate growth prospects of the market. Various indicators of growth such as value chain analysis, CAGR, supply chain analysis, and Y-o-Y growth are presented in the report, which elucidates the future prospects of the rotary pumps market with the help of various market dynamics such as market drivers, trends, restraints, challenges, and growth opportunities in the local rotary pumps markets. The market intelligence report provides information in a seamless, chapter-wise manner for the reader to get complete clarity of how the market is growing. The report is segmented into various chapters to provide a systematic structure of the report to ensure the convenience and proper understanding of the reader. Get Sample Copy of this report @ https://www.xploremr.com/report/3192/rotary-pumps-market Chapter 1 Rotary Pumps Market- Executive Summary The report commences with the executive summary that provides an overview of the global outlook of demand and sales of rotary pumps market. It provides the basic information about the leading segments of the market and regional outlook of growth prospects of rotary pumps market. It also provides the reader with quick insights on the growth opportunities for manufacturers, distributors, and other stakeholders in the rotary pumps market. Chapter 2 Global Rotary Pumps Market Introduction Readers can find the comprehensive definition of rotary pumps market in this chapter along with its association with the global pumps industry. The chapter provides the reader with a detailed introduction to rotary pumps market with the help of the market definition and market structure. Chapter 3 Market Dynamics In this chapter, readers can find detailed information about important market dynamics, including drivers, restraints, opportunities, and trends in the rotary pumps market. This chapter also includes information about other macroeconomic factors that are boosting or impeding the growth of the rotary pumps market, which can help readers to fathom important market dynamics. Chapter 4 Associated Industry Assessment With the help of the outlook of the global pumps industry, this chapter explains its effect on the market for rotary pumps. It also provides unique information about the influence of global demand for various types of pumps, such as centrifugal pumps and reciprocating pumps, on the growth of the rotary pumps market during 2018-2028. Chapter 5 Key Indicator Assessment This chapter of the report provides information about macroeconomic and microeconomic factors that can impact the growth of the rotary pumps market. This chapter includes supply chain analysis, regional pricing analysis, market dynamics, value chain analysis, and Porter's five forces analysis associated with rotary pumps market. This chapter also provides readers with important information about leading manufacturers, suppliers, and providers, in the rotary pumps market. Chapter 6 Global Rotary Pumps Market Analysis (2013-2017) and Forecast (2018-2028) Readers can find growth parameters of the rotary pumps market based on the estimates on market value (US$ million) and volume (units) during 2013-2018 and 2018-2028. The XploreMR report divides the rotary pumps market into its five broad sub-segments rotary pump capacity, product types, applications, rotary pump characteristics, and regions. Based on the rotary pump capacity, rotary pumps market is segmented into three main types small, medium, and high. Based on the product types, the rotary pumps market is divided into following sub-segments gear, vane, screw, lobe, progressive cavity pumps, piston, and peristaltic rotary pumps. According to its applications, rotary pumps market is broadly segmented into following categories oil, gas & refining, chemical, general industry, power generation, and water & wastewater. The oil, gas & refining segment is further divided into three broad sub-segments oil & gas onshore, oil & gas offshore, and oil refining. The chemical segment is further divided into basic and downstream. The general industry segment is further classified into pulp & paper, metal manufacturing, food & beverages, pharmaceuticals, shipbuilding, mining, harbor, docks, & canals, building services/industrial building, construction dewatering, domestic/residential building, packaging machinery, textile machinery, woodworking machinery, and other construction & machinery equipment. The power generation segment is further classified into coal oil, combined cycle gas, hydroelectric, and nuclear. The water & wastewater segment is further divided into industrial and municipal. According to the characteristics of rotary pumps, the rotary pumps market is segmented into three categories standard pumps, engineered pumps, and special purpose pumps. Based on regions, the rotary pumps market is segmented into six main geographical regions North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC), and Middle East & Africa (MEA). Chapter 7 North America Rotary Pumps Market Analysis This chapter focuses on the North America Rotary pumps market to analyze the market trends and adoption of rotary pumps in the United States and Canada during the forecast period. This chapter also features detailed assessment of the North American market for rotary pumps based on the demand for rotary pumps according to capacity, product types, applications, and characteristics in the rotary pumps market in the region. Chapter 8 Latin America Rotary Pumps Market Analysis In this chapter, readers can find detailed information on how rotary pumps market will grow in Latin American region during 2018-2028. The market value assessment by country, such as Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, Chile, Venezuela, and rest of Latin American region, according to the demand for rotary pumps according to capacity, product types, applications, and characteristics in the rotary pumps market in the region, is also provided in this chapter. Chapter 9 Western Europe Rotary Pumps Market Analysis The information featured in this chapter can help readers to comprehend growth prospects of the market for rotary pumps across the Western European region. This chapter also explains growth prospects of the rotary pumps market in Western Europe based on demand for rotary pumps according to capacity, product types, applications, and characteristics in the Western European rotary pumps market. This chapter features detailed information on micro and macroeconomic factors that are instrumental in boosting or hampering adoption of rotary pumps in Western European countries, such as Germany, UK, Italy, France, Switzerland, Spain, Sweden, Netherlands, Austria, Norway, Belgium, Denmark, Ireland, Finland, Portugal, and Greece. Chapter 10 Eastern Europe Rotary Pumps Market Analysis This chapter provides information about growth prospects of the rotary pumps market in Eastern Europe based on demand for rotary pumps according to capacity, product types, applications, and characteristics in the Eastern European rotary pumps market. This chapter offers detailed information on important factors that are boosting or hampering adoption of rotary pumps in Eastern European countries, such as Russia, Poland, Romania, Hungary, Czech Republic, and Bulgaria. Chapter 11 APAC Rotary Pumps Market Analysis This chapter offers comprehensive information about the growth of the market for rotary pumps in Asia Pacific region by assessing the adoption of rotary pumps in Asian countries, including China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand, Hong Kong, Philippines, Pakistan, and New Zealand, based on the demand for rotary pumps according to the demand for rotary pumps capacity, product types, applications, and characteristics in the region. Chapter 12 Middle East & Africa Rotary Pumps Market Analysis In this chapter, readers can find detailed information about expansion of the market for rotary pumps in Middle East & African region (MEA) by analyzing the adoption of rotary pumps in UAE, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iraq, Tunisia, Nigeria, Israel, Iran, Egypt, Oman, Morocco, Libya, Kuwait, Algeria, and Qatar. This chapter also explains growth prospects of the rotary pumps market in MEA based on demand for rotary pumps capacity, product types, applications, and characteristics in the rotary pumps market. Chapter 13 Competitive Assessment In this chapter, readers can find thorough information that can help them to understand the competitive environment in the rotary pumps market along with detailed information about leading market players. This chapter also provides information about market structure, competitive developments, key financials, and financial share analysis of leading stakeholders in the rotary pumps market. Chapter 14 Company Profiles The leading players in the rotary pumps market that have been mentioned in the report include Xylem, Flowserve Corporation, KSB SE & Co. KGaA, HMS Group, Pentair Ltd., SPX Flow, Inc., Dover Corporation, Alfa Laval, Gardner Denver, Inc., IDEX Corporation, ITT, Inc., and Roper Technologies Inc. Chapter 15 Disclaimer and Contact Information This chapter provides information about all the assumptions, acronyms used in the rotary pumps report along with necessary disclaimers to help readers understand the information with more clarity. Contact information can found at the end of the chapter. Get Full Report Access @ https://www.xploremr.com/cart/3192/SL Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- Irritation of the sciatic nerve causes pain in the lower portion of the body. This pain is termed as sciatica pain. Sciatica pain usually starts from the lumbar area of the body (lower back portion) to backwards of the thigh. It can also reach below the knee. Sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in a human body. Sciatic nerve starts from nerve origins of the lumbar spinal cord in the lower back portion and covers complete portion of the buttock part to direct nerve terminals below the lower limb. View Report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sciatica-treatment-market.html Common cause of the sciatica is due to direct pressing of a lumbar disc herniation on the nerve. Any reason which causes the sciatic nerve inflammation or irritation can produce the sciatica symptoms. Irritation of nerves causes abnormalities in intervertebral disc, which is termed as radiculopathy. Apart from a strained nerve from a disc, other reasons of sciatica pain are injury, infections in or around the lumbar spine, internal bleeding, muscle, tumors, and irritation of the nerve from adjacent bone. Some times during pregnancy sciatica pain can be caused due to irritation of sciatic nerve. There are several risks factors associated with sciatica pain. These include injury or trauma to the lumbar spine, slipped disc, lumbar disc disease, and degenerative arthritis of the lumbar spine. Apart from pain, sciatica causes tingling radiating from lower back and upper buttocks down the rear part of the ham to the rear of the foot, numbness, and burning sensation. This results in leg pain, hip pain, buttock pain, and lumbar pain. Occasionally the pain radiates adjacent to the buttock or hips which sense similar to hip pain. Severe form of sciatica can lead to difficulty in walking. Sciatica normally resolves on its own in around 90% of the cases. Though, surgical intervention may be needed in severe sciatica pain. If severe complications such as bladder or bowel problem occur, surgery may be required. Around 40% of population at some point in their life time experience sciatica pain. Sciatica pain is most common among people aged between 40 and 50. Men are more frequently affected as compared to women. The global sciatica treatment market is projected to grow at a rapid pace due to increase in safety and success of drug treatment, surge in geriatrics cases, rise in screening, increase in population, and excruciating pain. High cost of treatment and several difficulties in the sciatic surgery such as risk of bleeding, infections, and others are the restraints of the global sciatica treatment market. Request a Brochure of the Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=39512 The global sciatica treatment market can be segmented based on type of treatment, end-user, and region. In terms of type of treatment, the market can be classified into drug treatment and non-drug treatment. The drug treatment segment can be classified into steroids, antidepressants, muscle relaxants, painkillers, and anesthetics. The non-drug treatment segment can be divided into stimulation device, acupuncture, and physiotherapy. Based on end-user, the global market can be categorized into hospitals, surgical centers, and others. In terms of region, the global sciatica treatment market can be segmented into North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America is expected to dominate the global market due to availability of advanced medications. Awareness among the people about the diseases is another factor boosting the market in this region. The sciatica treatment market in Asia Pacific is anticipated to expand at a high growth rate due to increase in prevalence of the disease. Lack of awareness about the disease in the underdeveloped countries in Middle East and Africa such as Turkey, Cyprus, Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq drives the sciatica treatment market. Request TOC @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=39512 Key players operating in the global systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis treatment market are Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc., Novartis AG, Omega Laser Systems Ltd., Sanofi, and Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, among others. About Transparency Market Research Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMR's experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge. Each TMR syndicated research report covers a different sector such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With wider scope and stratified research methodology, TMR's syndicated reports strive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement. Contact Us Transparency Market Research 90 State Street, Suite 700 Albany, NY 12207 Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com Edison, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Soup Market in the US 2017-2021 is latest research study released by HTF MI evaluating the market status, highlighting opportunities, risk analysis, and leveraged with strategic decision-making support. The market Study is putting a lot of emphasis on regulatory issues, macro-economic influencing factors, key market trends and growth drivers that are changing the market dynamics of Soup Market in the US market. Get Access to Sample PDF @: https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/760461-soup-market-in-the-us-2017-2021 If you are involved in the Soup Market in the US industry or intend to be, then this study will provide you comprehensive outlook. It's vital you keep your market knowledge up to date segmented by major players. If you have a different set of players/manufacturers according to geography or needs regional or country segmented reports we can provide customization according to your requirement. Soup is basically a liquid food item that can be served hot or cold. Different vegetables, meat, and seasonings and condiments are added to lend it flavor and texture. The soup market in the US encompasses different product categories like wet soup, dry soup, broth and stock, bouillon, and others. The major distribution channels for soup products are supermarkets and hypermarkets, followed by convenience stores. HTF MI analysts forecast the soup market in the US to grow at a CAGR of 0.78% during the period 2017-2021 . Key Players included in the research study are Conagra Brands, CSC Brand (Campbell Soup Company), General Mills, The Kraft Heinz Company, Unilever, Other prominent vendors, Amy's Kitchen, Bear Creek Country Kitchens, Hain Celestial, KETTLE CUISINE, Kroger, Maruchan, Nestle USA, PACIFIC FOODS OF OREGON, The Original SoupMan. Make inquiry before purchase @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/760461-soup-market-in-the-us-2017-2021 Research methodology is based on extensive primary and secondary research. Primary research includes in-depth interviews with industry experts, vendors, resellers and customers. Secondary research includes HTF Platform, industry publications, company reports, news articles, analyst reports, trade associations and the data published by Government agencies. The Soup Market in the US Market research study is highlighting value drivers that may provides a competitive advantage to the business, providing an upper hand in the industry. What differentiation strategist should bring in product or services or what application/end-user needs to be targeted. What this Research Study Offers: Soup Market in the US Market share assessments for the regional and country level segments Market share analysis of the top industry players Influential factors that are thriving demand and constraints in the market. What is the market concentration? Is it fragmented or highly concentrated? Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations) What trends, challenges and barriers will impact the development and sizing of Soup Market in the US market? SWOT Analysis of each key players mentioned along with its company profile with the help of Porter's five forces tool mechanism to compliment the same. What growth momentum or acceleration market carries during the forecast period? Which region is going to tap highest market share in future? What Application/end-user category or Product Type may see incremental growth prospects? What would be the market share of key countries like United States, France, UK, Germany, Italy, Canada, Australia, Japan, China or Brazil etc.? Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements Market forecasts for a minimum of 5 years of all the mentioned segments, sub segments and the regional markets Early buyers will receive 10% customization on reports. Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/760461-soup-market-in-the-us-2017-2021 There are 15 Chapters to display the Soup Market in the US market. Chapter 1, About Executive Summary to describe Definition, Specifications and Classification of Soup Market in the US market, Applications, Market Segment by Regions; Chapter 2, to analyze objective of the study. Chapter 3, to display Research methodology and techniques. Chapter 4 and 5 , to show the Overall Market Analysis, segmentation analysis, characteristics; Chapter 6 and 7, to show the Market size, share and forecast; Five forces analysis (bargaining Power of buyers/suppliers), Threats to new entrants and market condition; Chapter 8 and 9, to show analysis by regional segmentation, comparison, leading countries and opportunities; Regional Marketing Type Analysis, Supply Chain Analysis Chapter 10, focus on identifying the key industry influencer's, overview of decision framework accumulated through Industry experts and strategic decision makers; Chapter 11 and 12, Market Trend Analysis, Drivers, Challenges by consumer behavior, Marketing Channels and demand & supply. Chapter 13 and 14, describe about the vendor landscape (classification and Market Positioning) Chapter 15, deals with Soup Market in the US Market sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data source. Buy this research report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=760461 Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia. Edison, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- Advance Market Analytics recently introduced Global Spirits Market study with in-depth overview, describing about the Product / Industry Scope and elaborates market outlook and status to 2025. Spirits Market explores effective study on varied sections of Industry like opportunities, size, growth, technology, demand and trend of high leading players. It also provides market key statistics on the status of manufacturers, a valuable source of guidance, direction for companies and individuals interested in the industry. Spirits are a class of alcoholic beverage obtained from distillation of mixture which is produced from alcoholic fermentation. The distillation process is primarily increases the alcohol content and reduces the dilution by components such as water. Major Key Players in This Report Include, Alberta Distillers Limited (Canada), Carrington Distillers (Ont) Ltd (United States), Bodegas Williams & Humbert (Spain), Agave Loco LLC (United States), Bacardi Limited (Bermuda), Asbach Gmbh (Germany), Blavod Drinks Ltd. (United Kingdom), Bardinet S.A.S (France), Bodegas Rey Fernando de Castilla (Spain) and Brown-Forman Corporation United States) Get Free PDF Sample Pages of Spirits Market Report: https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/sample-report/11526-global-north-america-europe-and-asia-pacific-south-america-middle-east-and-africa-spirits-market Market Drivers Increasing demand for super premium and premium whiskey along with the rising disposable income of the consumers Market Trend Introduction of new packaging in the market Restraints Strict government regulations in several economies like ban on advertisement of alcoholic beverages in public places Opportunities Rising demand in untapped market of Middle East & Africa Challenges Fluctuations in prices of raw materials This market research report looks into and analyzes the Global Spirits Market and illustrates a comprehensive evaluation of its evolution and its specifications. Another aspect that was considered is the cost analysis of the main products dominant in the Global Market considering the profit margin of the manufacturers. This research is categorized differently considering the various aspects of this market. It also evaluates the current situation and the future of the market by using the forecast horizon. The forecast is analyzed based on the volume and revenue of this market. The tools used for analyzing the Global Spirits Market research report include SWOT analysis. For Early Buyers | Get Up to 20% Discount on This Premium Report: https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/request-discount/11526-global-north-america-europe-and-asia-pacific-south-america-middle-east-and-africa-spirits-market The titled segments and Market Data Break Down are illuminated below: The Study Explore the Product Types of Spirits Market: Vodka, Gin, Tequila, Rum, Whisky, Brandy, Cane, Natural spirits, Flavored spirits Key Applications/end-users of Global Spirits Market: Household Application, Commercial Application Distribution Channel: Supermarkets, Hypermarkets, Specialty stores, Drug stores, Online, Others Top Players in the Market are: Alberta Distillers Limited (Canada), Carrington Distillers (Ont) Ltd (United States), Bodegas Williams & Humbert (Spain), Agave Loco LLC (United States), Bacardi Limited (Bermuda), Asbach Gmbh (Germany), Blavod Drinks Ltd. (United Kingdom), Bardinet S.A.S (France), Bodegas Rey Fernando de Castilla (Spain) and Brown-Forman Corporation United States) List of players also available in Coverage: Camus (France), AB Stumbras (Lithuania) and Agave Industries India Ltd. (India) The regional analysis of Global Spirits Market is considered for the key regions such as Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, Latin America and Rest of the World. North America is the leading region across the world. Whereas, owing to rising no. of research activities in countries such as China, India, and Japan, Asia Pacific region is also expected to exhibit higher growth rate the forecast period 2019-2025. The Global Spirits Market in terms of investment potential in various segments of the market and illustrate the feasibility of explaining the feasibility of a new project to be successful in the near future. The core segmentation of the global market is based on product types, SMEs and large corporations. The report also collects data for each major player in the market based on current company profiles, gross margins, sales prices, sales revenue, sales volume, photos, product specifications and up-to-date contact information. Get More Information: https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/reports/11526-global-north-america-europe-and-asia-pacific-south-america-middle-east-and-africa-spirits-market Strategic Points Covered in Table of Content of Global Spirits Market: Chapter 1: Introduction, market driving force product Objective of Study and Research Scope the Spirits market Chapter 2: Exclusive Summary the basic information of the Spirits Market. Chapter 3: Displaying the Market Dynamics- Drivers, Trends and Challenges of the Spirits Chapter 4: Presenting the Spirits Market Factor Analysis Porters Five Forces, Supply/Value Chain, PESTEL analysis, Market Entropy, Patent/Trademark Analysis. Chapter 5: Displaying the by Type, End User and Region 2013-2018 Chapter 6: Evaluating the leading manufacturers of the Spirits market which consists of its Competitive Landscape, Peer Group Analysis, BCG Matrix & Company Profile Chapter 7: To evaluate the market by segments, by countries and by manufacturers with revenue share and sales by key countries in these various regions. Chapter 8 & 9: Displaying the Appendix, Methodology and Data Source Finally, Spirits Market is a valuable source of guidance for individuals and companies. Data Sources & Methodology The primary sources involves the industry experts from the Global Spirits Market including the management organizations, processing organizations, analytics service providers of the industry's value chain. All primary sources were interviewed to gather and authenticate qualitative & quantitative information and determine the future prospects. In the extensive primary research process undertaken for this study, the primary sources Postal Surveys, telephone, Online & Face-to-Face Survey were considered to obtain and verify both qualitative and quantitative aspects of this research study. When it comes to secondary sources Company's Annual reports, press Releases, Websites, Investor Presentation, Conference Call transcripts, Webinar, Journals, Regulators, National Customs and Industry Associations were given primary weight-age. Buy the Latest Detailed Report @ https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/buy-now?format=1&report=11526 Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia. Sarasota, FL -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- Global Spirits Market: Overview Distilled beverage, or Spirit, is an alcoholic beverage produced by distillation (method of separating constituent substances from a mixture of liquid by making use of condensation and vaporization process) of a mixture generated from alcoholic fermentation. The process of distillation is utilized to purify the mix and to take away diluting components such as water from the mix for the reason of escalating its fraction of alcohol content. FREE | Request Sample is Available @ http://bit.ly/2F0Y58W Global Spirits Market: Growth Factors One of the major factors contributing to the growth of the worldwide spirits market is the increasing disposal revenue of the middle-class populace. Nevertheless, the escalating utilization of alcoholic beverages in nations such as Brazil, China, Russia, and India is projected to boost the growth of the market in the coming period. Spirit has been a status symbol now and thus the population is ready to shell out for quality brands. Additionally, print media and e-commerce have surfaced with more innovative and attractive ads to lure customers; which, in turn, will promote the growth of the spirits market. Also, the young generation is being drawn to alcoholic beverages, thus fueling the market growth. On the other hand, the severe government rules might hinder the growth of the spirit market growth. Retailing of alcohol is austerely barred in the government-approved shops. Moreover, the veto on advertising and drinking in public places may hamper the market growth. Global Spirits Market: Segmentation The worldwide spirits market is divided based on type, end-users, and region. The type segment of the spirits market is bifurcated into gin, brandy, cane, vodka, flavored spirits, rum, natural spirits, whiskey, and tequila. The vodka segment is anticipated to dominate the worldwide spirit market trailed by whiskey. The highest growth was witnessed by whiskey segment in the last few years and is anticipated to observe same growth in the near future owing to its rising consumption. Regionally, the worldwide spirits market can be categorized into Latin America, North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and Middle East & Africa. Download Free PDF Report Brochure @ http://bit.ly/2F5EFQf Global Spirits Market: Regional Analysis Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to dominate the worldwide spirits market. The growth of the market in this region can be attributed owing to the rising domestic consumption in the developing nations. Furthermore, the growth of the spirits market is also expected to boost in North America and Europe in the coming period. Global Spirits Market: Competitive Players The leading players in the worldwide spirit market consist of Alberta Distillers Limited, Carrington Distillers (Ont) Ltd, Bodegas Williams & Humbert, Agave Loco LLC, Bacardi Limited, Asbach Gmbh, Blavod Drinks Ltd., Bardinet S.A.S, Bodegas Rey Fernando de Castilla, Brown-Forman Corporation, Brooklyn Gin, Camus, "OAK POLAND" General Partnership Jerzy Markiewicz, and Agave Tequilana Prod. Y Comercializadores. Other few prominent players in the worldwide spirit market include Jun, AB Stumbras, Agropecuaria Grande Sul Ltda, 3 Medronhos, Agave Industries India Ltd., AF INTERNATIONAL CORP, S.A. C.V., Akwawit-Polmos S.A, Aivy Vodka, Pernod Ricard, Brown-Forman Corp., Aguardiente Llanero, and Diageo Plc. To view TOC of this report is available upon request @ http://bit.ly/2F51PX6 Global Spirits Market: Regional Segment Analysis North America The U.S. Europe The UK France Germany The Asia Pacific China Japan India Latin America Brazil The Middle East and Africa Inquire more about this report @ http://bit.ly/2F2XJ1B What Reports Provides Full in-depth analysis of the parent market Important changes in market dynamics Segmentation details of the market Former, on-going, and projected market analysis in terms of volume and value Assessment of niche industry developments Market share analysis Key strategies of major players Emerging segments and regional markets Testimonials to companies in order to fortify their foothold in the market. About Zion Market Research Zion Market Research is a single destination for all the industry, company and country reports. We feature large repository of latest industry reports, leading and niche company profiles, and market statistics released by reputed private publishers and public organizations. Zion Market Research is the comprehensive collection of market intelligence products and services available on air. We have market research reports from number of leading industry and update our collection daily to provide our clients with the instant online access to our database. With access to this database, our clients will be able to benefit from expert insights on global industries, products, and market trends. Rockville, MD -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- Straddle carriers or straddle trucks, are used as freight handling equipment which follows a straddling process to carry freight load. The purpose of this cargo handling system is to unload and load without the inclusion of forklifts or cranes. Growth in sea-borne activities merged with significant rise in containerized trade worldwide are driving the straddle carrier market to greater heights. In order to record vital changes in the concerned market, Fact.MR has published a new study titled "Straddle Carrier Market Forecast, Trend Analysis & Competition Tracking - Global Market insights 2018 to 2028", which helps in analyzing the opportunities and market trends expected to hamper the global straddle carriers market in the coming years. This study is a usefulness data source which delivers well-researched data focusing at market revenue, market share, CAGR and other crucial parameters to judge the actual growth of the straddle carriers market. According to Fact.MR, the demand for straddle carrier is likely to expand at a constant pace offering growth at 4.5% CAGR in terms of value during the assessment period, 2018-2028. This report further predicts that close to 700 units of straddle carriers are expected to be sold by 2028-end, which showcases effective development in the global straddle carriers market. Request For Sample Report- https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=1585 As the report proceeds, readers can acquire knowledge focusing on the geographical presence of straddle carriers. The study highlights that emerging countries in the Asia Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ) like China and India are estimated to present lucrative opportunities for renowned manufacturers. Furthermore, escalating port infrastructure as well as the container industry in the mentioned countries are powering growth of the straddle carrier market across the APEJ region. In statistical terms, sales of straddle carrier in APEJ is estimated to surpass US$ 25 Mn by end of 2028, as per FACT.MR study. Rising Adoption of Automated Terminals to Motivate Demand for Straddle Carrier The expansion of automation across numerous industries is quite evident and its pace across the shipping sector has turned seriously impressive. There has been a substantial traction towards automated terminals due to the requirement for efficient operation and high productivity. Furthermore, automated solutions have proven usefulness in the container terminal space in order to resolve challenges tackled by larger ships apropos of operative containerization. The incorporation of automated terminals helps in reducing the waiting and turnaround times for ships, which is majorly enhancing their adoption across chief ports at the global level. Browse Full Report on Straddle Carrier Market with in-depth TOC- https://www.factmr.com/report/1585/straddle-carrier-market Environmental Concerns Inspire the Adoption of Electric Straddle Carriers The incorporation of electric straddle carriers is likely to grow as a result of stringent environment regulations. Number of manufacturers of straddle carriers have started to comply with the norms framed against NOx and CO2 levels, thereby leading to the development of electric straddle carrier variants which deliver increased operational efficiency as well as enable cost savings. Surprisingly, the increased demand for hybrid straddle carrier is projected to gain significant stride during the forecast period, since they possess a regenerative energy system which is maintenance free. The final section of the report discourse the competitive landscape that focuses on the main players operating in the global straddle carrier market. Different competitive intelligence factors as SWOT analysis, product portfolio analysis, market shares, innovations and strategies have been implemented to highlight the competitive setting prevalent in the target market. Some of the primary players mentioned in the report include Kalmar Inc., Leibherr International AG, Konecrane Oyj, Isoloader Australia Pty Ltd, Mobicon System Pty Ltd, Combilift Ltd and Cimolai Technology S.p.A. Ask Our Industry Expert for more detail on report- https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=AE&rep_id=1585 About Fact.MR Fact.MR is a fast-growing market research firm that offers the most comprehensive suite of syndicated and customized market research reports. We believe transformative intelligence can educate and inspire businesses to make smarter decisions. We know the limitations of the one-size-fits-all approach; that's why we publish multi-industry global, regional, and country-specific research reports. Contact Us Fact.MR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20852 United States Email: sales@factmr.com Web: https://www.factmr.com/ Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2019 -- The personal care products market comprises hair care, skin care, toiletries, fragrances convenience products and others. Among all these segments toiletries and skin care comprises the major segments for the market, constituting with high market value with favorable perspective in the near future. Tissue and hygiene is the sub-segment of toiletries segment. Tissue and hygiene products help consumers to maintain healthy and hygienic lifestyle in day to day schedule. Tissue and hygiene products are further categorized as disposable razor or blades, sanitary pads, nappies, cleansers, sprays, cotton wool and others. Tissue and hygiene Market Segmentation Tissue and hygiene market can be segmented on the basis of distribution channel which includes health and beauty stores, chemist/pharmacies/drugstores, supermarkets, convenient stores, e-retailing and others. Among all these distribution channel segments, sell out of tissue and hygiene products through supermarkets account for the highest market share in 2014 followed by convenience stores. Growing retail industry is fuelling the demand for sell out of tissue and hygiene products through supermarkets across the globe. Moreover, chemist/pharmacies/drugstores segment is also expected to show a potential growth in terms of sales of tissue and hygiene products during the forecast period. In addition, sell out through internet is expected to show a sustainable growth in the forecasted period. The growth of online purchasing is supported by the increasing penetration of internet and rising concern for convenience among the consumers across the globe. Get Sample Copy of Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-528 The tissue and hygiene market can also be segmented on the basis of product type. The segmentation includes cotton wool/buds/, incontinence products, nappies/diapers, sanitary protection, wipes and others. Among all these segments sanitary protection and nappies/diapers are collectively expected to account for the highest growth in terms of revenue followed by wipes. Increasing concern of women for healthy and hygienic lifestyle is expected to support the growth of sanitary protection product market across the globe. Moreover, wipes are also expected to show a tremendous growth in the forecast period due to continuous and aggressive promotion of the product. On the basis of geography, North America contributes to the largest in terms of revenue in tissue and hygiene market followed by Europe. In North America United States is the major contributor in tissue and hygiene market followed by Canada. In Europe, countries such as Germany and France accounts for the largest market share followed by United Kingdom. Whereas, Asia pacific is concerned it is expected to register a double digit CAGR growth by 2020. In Asia pacific region China is expected to be the most dominant market for tissue and hygiene followed by Japan. Rising awareness through various corporate advertisements and government educational campaigns coupled with increasing concern of women to be hygienic in their day to day life has fueled the growth of tissue and hygiene market in China. Moreover, women in China prefer for premium feminine hygiene product categories, which is expected to bolster the growth of feminine hygiene products in terms of revenue. In addition, India is also expected to witness a robust growth in tissue and hygiene market. Increasing number of working women in urban areas, rising awareness among the consumer for healthy and hygienic lifestyle has supported the growth of tissue and hygiene market in India. Furthermore, government educating and awareness campaigns in rural areas and in schools is expected to support the growth of tissue and hygiene market particularly in India. Tissue and hygiene Market Drivers Rising disposable income coupled with increasing consumer expenditure for health care products is driving the growth of tissue and hygiene market across the globe. In addition, consumer awareness through aggressive corporate advertisement and various government campaign programs in rural and urban areas especially in school and colleges is also fueling the tissue and hygiene market growth of tissue and hygiene market in the forecast period. In addition continuous launching of new product variant is expected to fuel the growth of tissue and hygiene market in the near future. Request to Browse Full Table of Content, figure and Tables @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-528 Tissue and hygiene Market: Key Players The major international players operating in tissue and hygiene market includes Sterling Hygiene Tissue Procter & Gamble, Gulf Manufacturing EST, Kimberly-Clark Corporation, Johnson & Johnson Limited, Unilever and Hengan International Group Company Limited. among others. Edison, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/15/2019 -- A new research document is added in HTF MI database of 37 pages, titled as 'Tourism Source Market Insight: Spain - Analysis of tourist profiles & flows, spending patterns, destination markets, risks and future opportunities' with detailed analysis, Competitive landscape, forecast and strategies. The study covers geographic analysis that includes regions like Spain, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, and important players/vendors such as VisitBritain, Vueling, IAG, Norwegian, Cantillon Brewery, Grgich Hills Estate. The report will help you gain market insights, future trends and growth prospects for forecast period of 2018 2025. Request a sample report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/1692246-tourism-source-market-insight Tourism Source Market Insight: Spain - Analysis of tourist profiles & flows, spending patterns, destination markets, risks and future opportunities. GlobalData's "Tourism Source Market Insight: Spain", report provides a thorough insight into Spain's domestic and outbound tourism market. The report looks at the profiles of Spanish tourists and summarizes the key reasons that they travel. The report offers an in-depth analysis of traveler flows, spending patterns, main destination markets and current and future opportunities for tourism businesses seeking to tap into the Spanish outbound travel market. This report is part of GlobalData's Source Market Insights Series. This report provides an in-depth analysis of traveler flows, spending patterns, main destination markets, as well as current and future opportunities for tourism businesses seeking to tap into the Spanish outbound travel market. Get Customization in the Report, Enquire Now @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/1692246-tourism-source-market-insight Scope - From 2016 to 2019 outbound air travel numbers in Spain will grow at a CAGR of 10.6%. - VFR tourism has now overtaken leisure tourism in Spain as the most popular purpose for domestic travel. - Europe is still the favourite outbound continent with Portugal the most popular destination. - By 2022, the average trip length for the Spanish tourist is expected to be 10 days. Reasons to buy - This report provides clear insight into developments in Spain's domestic and outbound tourism markets. - The report uses data and analysis to discuss future trends related to domestic trips, international departures, traveler spending, and main destination markets. - The report explores the different profiles of Spanish tourists and the reasons that they travel, hence providing an insight into the trends in different segments of the market. - The reader gains a strong understanding of the opportunities in the country, as well as the risks, to support better business decisions. Companies Mentioned in the Report VisitBritain Vueling IAG Norwegian Cantillon Brewery Grgich Hills Estate Buy this report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=1692246 Table of Contents Overview Country Snapshot 2018 At a glance: The Spanish tourist market in 2018 Risks to outbound Spanish tourism Main findings Tourist Profile What motivates Spanish tourists Insight in to Spanish tourists Domestic Tourism Domestic flows Domestic spending Outbound Tourism ....Continued View Detailed Table of Content @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/1692246-tourism-source-market-insight It's vital you keep your market knowledge up to date. If you have a different set of players/manufacturers according to geography or needs regional or country segmented reports we can provide customization accordingly. It asked the government why it could not trace him globe-trotting, despite having the resources of all the probe agencies at its disposal. New Delhi: The Congress on Friday accused the Narendra Modi government of having "slept and snoozed" while fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi set up a diamond business in London after fleeing the country with the support of a firm linked to the Panama Papers. "Today is 'World Sleep Day', therefore today the Congress party shall expose how PM Modi i.e 'Desh Ka Chowkidar' and his government slept and snoozed while 'Chhota Modi' i.e Nirav Modi looted crore (of rupees), fled the country, posed with the PM, globe-trotted, opened a new diamond business in London which has a Panama Papers connection," Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said in a press conference here. "Simple question is - If the Congress party can expose this entire chain of events and trace his trail, why could the CBI, ED, and other investigative agencies of the Modi Government not do the same after 14 months of his escape? "Is it not a clear-cut case of criminal complacency, complicity and connivance by Modi government with economic offenders like Nirav Modi," he said. To bolster its point, the party produced a timeline of Nirav Modi's travels to several countries after he fled from India on January 1 and after revocation of his passport by the Indian government on February 23. The party spokesperson said after his passport was revoked, Modi travelled to six countries: UK, UAE, Hong Kong, France and Germany. He said that the government's reasoning that he was able to travel because his passport was not "physically cancelled" was a "lameduck excuse". He also raised the point that why was the Red Corner notice against Modi issued only in July, six months after the diamantaire, accused of defaulting on loans worth Rs 26,306 crore, fled the country. "Is it not a criminal delay?," Khera asked. He said that the new diamond business Modi has set up in London shares the same address as that of 'Dattani Chartered Accountants'-- a company, he claimed, named in the Panama Papers investigation by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ). He said the accountancy firm was linked with 53 entities in all by those papers. The party claimed that Modi fled the country with as much as 8 million pounds in cash, for he bought an apartment in London for 7.5 million pounds on January 5 -- four days after leaving India. The party also pointed out how Modi has been able to enjoy a lavish lifestyle in London, where he was spotted on March 9 by a Daily Telegraph reporter, reportedly wearing a 10,000 pound ostrich hide jacket. It was also reported that he lives in a Rs 73 crore house in London and owns an office in upmarket Soho. Khera said that Modi's London firm, Diamond Holdings, has one officer named Raju Thakorbhai Patel, who owns an accountancy firm in north London. He claimed that as recently as March 7, Diamond Holdings changed its address to Scottish Provident House, 76/80 College Road, Harrow, HA11BQ, the same as Dattani Chartered Accountants and Balmoral Corporate Services Limited, also named in the Panama Papers. On Friday, Musk tweeted that he would love to be in India in 2019 or next year. Hours after Elon Musk, the Tesla Chief Executive got the curtains off Tesla's latest Model Y , the maverick billionaire hinted of an India launch coming soon. Post the launch of Tesla Y, where Musk spoke for ten minutes on the company's grand plans and how Tesla Y could combine the sales of both the Model 3 and model S, Musk answered an Indian user. With two heart shaped emoticons in his tweet, Musk said, "Would Love to be there this year. If not, definitely next!" Here is the tweet: Would love to be there this year. If not, definitely next! ?? India ?? Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 15, 2019 Ever since the announcement on Model Y, social users have been wondering of catching a glimpse of the luxury car in action on Indian roads. Not that Indian roads do not have Tesla's electric cars, but most technology companies have started a same-day roll-out of various technology products in India. In recent times, various businessmen have been spotted in the cockpits of Tesla's Model 3 and S series. The Tesla Y range starting at a price of $39,000 (base) and $60,000 (performance) had curious netizens calculating of the landing cost. Besides the costly price, users would also be forced to shell out an import tax, which approximately doubles the cost of the overall product. The last time Musk spoke of India was nearly 10 months ago. And, he spoke of making India the big market. In 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Tesla headquarters at Palo Alto, California and met Musk who gave Modi a tour of the company's electric car plant. However, not much has come post that visit. Musk in recent times has been critical of policies that have forced him from riding his electric ambitions. That, in what could be the world's largest market for electric cars. Previously, Tesla was expected to enter India with the Model 3 that sells for nearly $35,000. But, that never materialized. In tweets, Musk has blamed restrictive policies as well as FDI norms for the delay in the electric car maker's entry into the Indian market. Earlier this year, Tesla's Indian-origin Chief Financial Officer Deepak Ahuja announced his retirement from the firm, thus bringing Musk's India dream to a grinding halt again. Musk wanted to drive Tesla in India in 2017 and Ahuja, who worked out of Tesla's San Carlos headquarters, quit the company in 2015 only to rejoin in 2017. In May last year, Tesla CEO Elon Musk said he would still love to roll out Tesla electric cars in India but the tough government regulations have forced him to apply the brakes on his plans. Kollywood heartthrob Arya tied the knot with his lady love Sayyeshaa on Sunday, March 10, 2019, in Hyderabad. The wedding, held as per Muslim customs, was a private, yet memorable affair that was attended by some of the biggest names in the industry! Four days later, on March 14, 2019, the couple hosted a grand reception in Chennai for their friends from the industry. Sayesha is the daughter of actress Shaheen Banu and actor Sumeet Saigal and the grandniece of veteran Bollywood stars Dilip Kumar and Saira Banu. Apparently, Arya and Sayyesha grew close to each other on the sets of their 2018 Tamil film, Ghajinikanth and are currently shooting for another movie together titled Kaappan. At least 49 worshippers were killed in attacks on the Al Noor Mosque in central Christchurch and the Linwood Mosque in the city's outer suburb, in what appeared to be the worst attack on Muslims in a western country. New Delhi : An Indian-origin man was injured in the Christchurch terror attacks, his relatives residing in Hyderabad said on Friday. Khursheed Jahangir, brother of Ahmed Iqbal Jahangir, said his brother was injured during the attack and is currently undergoing treatment at a local hospital in Christchurch. "He is injured.He is recovering in a hospital now. The latest information we received is that he is undergoing a surgery. We have seen the video. He has been shot in the chest and we are trying to reach Indian embassy people and local helpline numbers," Khursheed Jahangir said. He said he spoke to All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen chief Asaduddin Owaisi for help in reaching out to authorities for a visa and other formalities to go to New Zealand to see his brother. Khursheed Jahangir said he has visited New Zealand twice and described it as one of the 'safest' places in the world. Asaduddin Owaisi tweeted requesting External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and the Telangana Governments help to enable the family to go to New Zealand. 'I request @KTRTRS @TelanganaCMO @MEAIndia @SushmaSwaraj to make necessary arrangements for the Khursheed family,' Owaisi said in a tweet. 'These are Mr.Khursheed's passport details. His brother is serious & his family has little support. I'm only requesting the immediate support of your good offices in expediting his visa process. Hell make all arrangements to travel to NZ by himself,' Owaisi said in another tweet. Reacting to Owaisi's request, Telangana Rashtra Samiti working president and former minister KT Rama Rao tweeted 'Asad Saab, Will request our NRI department to assist'. Owaisi, in another tweet, said 'Farhaj Ahsan, a person of Indian origin, was also reported to have gone to the same mosque and is currently missing. His family is in Hyderabad, I request immediate assistance to his family as well. His familys contact details are available with me & Ill share the same with you (sic).' Farhaj Ahsan's parents could not be reached. Suresh Kumar, a family friend of Ahmed Iqbal, said in a video footage they could see images of Iqbal, who runs a restaurant in New Zealand, at a mosque when the attack took place. "Since then we (Iqbal's family in Hyderabad) have been trying to reach him. We could not reach him over phone. His wife is in a state of shock. We have sought the state governments help to send one of the family members to New Zealand," Kumar said. According to Suresh, Ahmed Iqbal has been living in New Zealand for over a decade and settled there. He has two children and is said to have permanent residency of that country. Meanwhile, India's High Commission in New Zealand was ascertaining details about the possibility of Indians being affected in the attacks amidst unconfirmed reports that nine Indian nationals were missing after the shootings. MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said that India's High Commission in New Zealand is in touch with local authorities for more information. "Our mission is in touch with local authorities to ascertain more details. It is a sensitive matter and therefore we can't give confirmed numbers/names till we are absolutely certain," he said. When asked about the unconfirmed reports suggesting that nine Indians are missing after the shootings, a Indian High Commission official in Wellington told PTI over phone that a team of the Indian mission was in contact with the local authorities to find out details about Indians. The unconfirmed reports emerged after the unverified Twitter account of India's High Commissioner in New Zealand Sanjiv Kohli tweeted that there are nine missing persons of Indian nationality/origin. 'As per updates received from multiple sources there are nine missing persons of Indian nationality/ origin. Official confirmation still awaited. Huge crime against humanity. Our prayers with their families,' according to Kohli's unverified Twitter handle. 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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(0x7f3fe98f9080)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe75378b0)', '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(0x7f3fe98f9080)') 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(0x7f3fe75378b0)') 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(0x7f3feaa83ba0)') 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(0x7f3fe75378b0)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe75378b0)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe682c948)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fe944d588)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fe944d588)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0 System error error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. context: ... 21: 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: 28:
29: ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25 /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:951 /var/cache/mason/obj/1784076917/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17 /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149 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(0x7f3fe71938a0)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe717ee88)', '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(0x7f3fe71938a0)') 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(0x7f3fe717ee88)') 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(0x7f3fe70a7680)') 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(0x7f3fe717ee88)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe717ee88)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe6c61ed8)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fe71f6b30)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fe71f6b30)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0 System error error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. context: ... 21: 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: 28:
29: ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25 /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:951 /var/cache/mason/obj/1784076917/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17 /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149 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(0x7f3fe7239230)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe716de50)', '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(0x7f3fe7239230)') 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(0x7f3fe716de50)') 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(0x7f3fe7243130)') 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(0x7f3fe716de50)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe716de50)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe682b2d0)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fe71718a8)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fe71718a8)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0